the liddle blog

Hello Again!

2012-01-14T08:55:00.001-05:00

Okay. My last post was called "It's Been A While...". That was written almost two years ago. I think I could title this one the same!

It isn't that I haven't had anything to say. I guess I just haven't had anything I wanted to say on here!

But alas, here I am! :) And here is a semi-recent photo of my girls - full of love!

My blog really isn't a place where you will necessarily find great photos or recipes. I'm not overly techie, so it's not very fancy in many regards. But, my goal and prayer for this blog is to offer encouragement in the Lord Jesus Christ for daily living and family life. Lately I have had some things on my mind which I would like to share, and truthfully, are just too lengthy for my Facebook status! :)

Today, I just wanted to share a something that has worked so well for our family, and hopefully it will encourage you!

The Bible, God's inerrant Word, is more than a history book. It is a story of humankind's redemption. It is our powerful weapon against temptation and spiritual battles. It is a "lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path" (Psalm 119:105).

Because of these things, Scripture memory is a high priority for our family. However, it is something I used to struggle with. I would try to memorize random verses, but I would quickly forget them. When I would teach my kids that way, it also seemed ineffective (as far as retention). But in the last couple of years, we have discovered a most effective method for all of us, and that is to memorize whole passages/chapters of the Bible instead of random verses.

Now, I know that this is not a new concept to many. However, if you have not done this, I encourage you to try! You may think that memory work is easier for kids, but I have hidden more of God's Word in my heart since we've been doing this, and I actually retain it after many months!

Here is the method:

Start with the first verse of the passage. Just read/recite it with your kids throughout the day: in the car, at breakfast, at lunch, during dinner, etc. Do that for a couple of days, then add the next verse. However, instead of just working on the next verse, recite the first verse along with it. Keep doing this, and before you know it, you will have memorized ten verses, then twenty, then a whole chapter! Doing it this way also puts the memory verses into context, and it opens up the door to wonderful Godly conversation as a family.

I promise it is not as daunting or difficult as it may seem, but there is one very important key. You must be diligent. You must place it as a priority. When you do, you will be amazed at what you and your family can learn. Even my youngest children participate - we just make it a pleasant time with no pressure.

You will not regret it! I can heartily declare that it is a worthy investment of your time.

Some of you may have other methods that you would like to share. I would love to hear them!

Consider Psalm 119:11:

Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You."

I think that means that knowing Scripture is pretty important!

It's Been A While...

2010-07-04T23:32:00.004-04:00

Wow! It's been awhile since I last posted!

It's not really that I have nothing to write about, it's just that summer is wonderful...and busy! Even the wee one has been up and at 'em. Evan is moving around like crazy, and just tonight we had to lower his mattress because he is trying to pull up. He likes it. Doesn't he look happy?

This week we (as a family) have been learning/memorizing/studying one of my favorite Bible passages, Philippians 4:4-8. It says,

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things."

Isn't that wonderful? To me that is so rich. Perhaps it's because I tend to be a worrier sometimes, and this is a blunt command from the Almighty that I absolutely must NOT worry about anything. And there is a promise. A promise that when we rest in him, not only will our hearts be covered with His peace, but that it will guard our minds as well.

Most of the time, it's my mind that gets me in trouble anyway. Whether it's worrying, dwelling on the negative about people or circumstances, or just focusing on myself, it usually begins in my mind. I need God's peace to guard my mind.

Even though this has been a favorite passage for a long time, I still struggle with completely letting go and putting it into practice. I'm workin' on it though!

I Love My Kids' Daddy

2010-06-20T00:35:00.006-04:00

Many months ago I posted this photo of Jason and the little guy and wrote about how Jacob loves to imitate his daddy.

Not much has changed. It is not uncommon to see Jacob digging with his Daddy, pulling weeds with his Daddy, eating cereal with his Daddy, or eating other foods just because Daddy does.

Actually, it's not just Jacob. Imitating Daddy seems to be a big-time habit for all of the kids.

And he's a good Daddy. He is loving. He is playful. He teaches. He provides. He lets them know how important they are to him and to God. He prays for them. He has a desire to see them grow in the Lord. He hangs out with them. He helps them. He disciplines them. He laughs with them.

See, he tries to imitate His Father, too.

Perfect? Of course not.

But he is the father of my children and the man I love, and I'm so happy to be sharing my life with him.

Happy Father's Day to my hubby!

And Happy Father's Day to you too Dad!

Baby Dedication

2010-06-07T21:07:00.006-04:00

Yesterday was the day when we publicly dedicated Evan to the Lord. We, along with ten (I think) other families in our church, presented our infants and vowed to raise them in the knowledge of the Lord. It was really great because the service included a vow from the church and from extended family in supporting us as we strive to teach our children the ways of God.

I really appreciated the opportunity to do that publicly, although Jason and I, with each of our children, have done so privately on the night they were born. We do not take this lightly. Have you ever thought about the implications of this act?

I have.

I have wondered so many times what it will mean for our family.

It may mean that they will move far away from us one day.

It may mean that they will have to suffer consequences of sin committed.

It may mean that they will be used in a manner in which I personally would not choose for them (because of selfishness).

It may mean pain.

It may mean discipline.

It may mean suffering.

But despite how it sounds, we are not turning our children over to an inflictor of pain. We are entrusting them to the Good Shepherd.

Therefore.....

It WILL mean blessing.

It WILL mean joy.

It WILL mean peace.

It WILL mean life - abundant.

Those are the things we desire for our children. We desire for God to use them for His glory.

Yikes.

The very human side of me is frightened by that. There is something about relinquishing control that is both freeing and frightening. But His grace is sufficient, and His purposes are good. He doesn't call us to something and just leave us hanging. He gives us the means by which to pass through and thrive. I know that's big talk coming from someone like me whose oldest child is still in single digits. But I trust HIM. I really do. I trust Him so much that I give Him my most prized possessions on earth, for it is He who entrusted them to me in the first place.

Will I still worry about my kids from time to time? Unfortunately (yet honestly), yes. I often times struggle with forgetting that they are in God's hands. But my ever loving and patient Father is working in my heart about that.

Thank you God for our kids. May they be vessels that are filled with the knowledge of You and the truth of your Word. May they learn to pour themselves out daily so that Your Spirit will fill their lives. May they walk in your grace, and may their lives be a testament to Your glory......

Amen.

"Patches" and Chimney Tops

2010-05-26T22:33:00.001-04:00

One week ago, we were living it up in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. I love that place!

It was a mini-vacation of sorts, and we were blessed with two glorious days, which we spent hiking, shopping, go karts, mini golf, a comedy show, and more hiking!

One of the hikes we took was a 4-mile (round trip) "strenuous" hike. The two miles one way took us 1700 feet in elevation, so it was a pretty steep trail in many parts. It was rocky too. And beautiful. Anyway, Jason and I had been on this trail back before we ever had children, so it was exciting for us to get to take all four kids along this time.

At the beginning of the trail, Emily started to whine about something. Even though she is our resident drama queen, I knew that she was capable of handling such a strenuous hike.

While Emily was crying and holding on to my hand at the start of the trail, I looked at my mom and whispered, "Give her ten minutes....she'll be a new kid". I was wrong. It was hardly two minutes before she took off barking and panting, running to the front of the pack as happy as a lark.

I knew it would happen. I knew Patches would show up. Yeah, Patches. That's Emily's alter ego. Patches comes along on hikes in the woods and long family walks. Patches never complains. Occasionally, Patches gets a little wild, and I am instructed to say "Heal Patches!" and then Patches calms down and walks with me. Patches has a very cute bark and likes to run and leap and lead the hike. Patches also likes to sniff out various flowers and also doesn't cry when she falls down. Patches is great!!!

I found it humorous how quickly her attitude shifted, and how similar it is to the way I operate at times (minus the turning into a dog part). :) We really can choose our attitude, can't we? We can decide to stay in a sour mood or we can choose to smile. We even have the choice of how we will accept our circumstances or consequences. Our attitude really is something that we can control. That doesn't mean it's easy, but it is within our reach. And when we reach out, our patient, loving Father meets us there. He supplies the strength we need to make the complete adjustment.

These were just thoughts that I pondered as we hiked. It was one of my favorite hikes I've ever taken, in part because I love that trail (Chimney Tops), but mostly because I was so proud of how the kids enjoyed it and were so enthusiastic, even during the steep portions.

Jason took Ashlyn to the tip top of the peak, which is just up from the top of the trail. You actually have to scale the rock to get there, so we decided that Ash would be the only kid to go. It was a wonderful day, one that I will not soon forget. Here are a few pics:

Number One

2010-05-17T06:16:00.006-04:00

See how my boy has grown? (And I like how he is taking down that lion!) :)

The kids and I just finished a biography about Lottie Moon. If you're like I was, you didn't know much more about this lady than that she was a missionary to China and that the Baptist church takes up an offering in her honor every Christmas, which is applied to international mission work.

This was the second bio we've read about missionaries to China (the other was about Gladys Alyward, and I highly recommend them both), and during both books we were riveted as we read about how these ladies received their calls from God, how they endured persecution, and how they lived lives that were far from successful by the world's standards, but were truly extraordinary in the eternal realm of Kingdom advancement.

Reading these books confirmed within me something which I have thought about for a long time:

Eternal Mindset.

That is the number one principle that I want my children (and myself) to grab a hold of.

I've asked them before to imagine their lives as a speck on a line that goes forever in each direction (not to discount their lives, but to offer perspective and see how much bigger God is than we are). I want them to truly understand that we should accept the things that God brings our way on this earth, whether it be blessing or hardship, in light of the fact that this life is so temporary.

Am I saying we shouldn't enjoy our lives on earth? Absolutely not! As always, looking to Jesus Christ as our primary example is a must. He enjoyed relationships with people, grew up obeying a mom and dad, went to weddings and worked for a living. But He always had eternity and His Father's Kingdom in mind.

People like Lottie Moon are fine examples too. At the end of her life, she had almost nothing to her name (she had given it all away). She had grown up in a wealthy Southern family. She had been well educated. She could have become very successful according to the world's standards. But that was not her calling. (Worldly success isn't bad, except when it comes at the price of giving up God's call on your life.)

A beautiful life, that's what she lived. A beautiful life full of people, pain, and prayer. I encouraged the girls to imagine, that even though she had nothing of value when she died, the souls in heaven who greeted her, thankful that she had made such a sacrifice so that they might hear the truth of Jesus Christ. What encouragement that is!

My prayer for my children is that God would turn their hearts toward Him. I pray that His purposes would be at the forefront of their minds. I pray that He would draw them to Himself and give them the desire to work for His Kingdom. I pray that we would all never forget that our work will one day be tested, and only what's done for Him will last.

Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold,

silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw,

each man's work will become evident;

for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire,

and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work.

If any man's work which he has built on it remains,

he will receive a reward.

If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss,

but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

1 Corinthians 3:12-15

My List

2010-05-09T22:23:00.005-04:00

Reasons I love being a mom:

1) Ashlyn:

nature-loving, generous, energetic

2) Emily:

girly girl, dramatic, sensitive

3) Jacob:

comedian, independent, tough as nails

4) Evan:

cute, cute, cute

I love doing life with these kids, and I can't wait to see what God has in store for them!

A Garden We Will Grow!

2010-05-05T22:24:00.005-04:00

Yesterday, the kids and I took a trip to the greenhouse to pick out flowers, and today, being the glorious day that it was, we took advantage of the nice weather and spent the entire day outside cleaning out beds and setting flowers.

It was truly a blessing for me, because my kiddos really did help me. I was hoping they would give me an hour or two without complaining, but as it turned out, it was a whole day of happily working together!

At the greenhouse yesterday, they were asking for flowers that would be their "own". I told them to each choose two flowers, and I would buy one and they they would buy one. So the girls took their purses, shopped carefully, and each paid a dollar fifty on some great choices. This investment really sparked their interest in where the flowers would be planted, making sure they have a happy home where they can grow and thrive!

It was so great being able to spend the whole day like that working together. We had some good conversation, and there was lots of teaching and learning going on. Days like this are a good reminder to me that learning is truly a lifestyle. No matter what we are doing, there is always some kind of knowledge to gain that is relevant to real life.

Finally, at the end of the afternoon, I pulled out the sprinkler as a reward for their diligent labor. (Yes, I actually am showing a picture of Jacob in his underwear.)

Thoughts of Earth Day

2010-04-27T21:29:00.000-04:00

So last Thursday was Earth Day, huh?

I like the earth. Really I do. It's where I live, right? It's a planet perfectly designed for human life. It has a perfect atmosphere. A perfect magnetosphere. A perfect tilt.

I also like taking care of the earth. I like not littering. I like teaching my children to pick up trash, and when it is possible, to recycle.

I also like trees. And flowers. And mountains. And rivers. Oh I really like rivers. In fact, I think this place is beautiful. My family and I love to be out where we can really experience the beauty that God has created.

Yes, that God has created.

As much as I like this planet we call home, I still realize that the best is yet to come. This is not the end all be all. It's sometimes hard to imagine that as wonderful as our world is, that it is actually still in a fallen state. It makes me anxious for what is to come!

But, for now, this is where I live.

So I am all for planting trees, and picking up trash, and doing things that naturally keep our world beautiful (notice I do not mention things like taxing AIR. That's as far as I'll go with that for now).

Ahem.

Anyway, I say all this to say that...I like the earth.

But I LOVE its Creator.

You see, there is a cult among us which encourages us to love the earth, yet it denies God as the Creator.

It denies that He actually is the end all be all. And one day, when the earth actually is destroyed, He will still be on His throne. Psalm 97:5 prophesies that the mountains will "melt like wax before the Lord" at His coming.

So, even in the midst of our "green" culture, don't lose sight of the fact that this rock is our temporary home. Sure, we should live responsibly and do our best to take care of it. God wants us to enjoy His creation and teaches us so much through it.

But my encouragement is this: the next time you plant a tree, don't just think of it as a small act toward saving the environment. Think also, for example, about the miracle that God has provided through the dying of seeds and the restoring of new life. Realize that this earth is full of beauty that points to God. It is merely His creation, and He will not be outdone.

Emily's Song About God

2010-04-23T08:40:00.004-04:00

I couldn't resist sharing this little nugget.

Maybe I should get her some guitar lessons? :)

The Motions

2010-04-16T11:34:00.004-04:00

(Note: I had a nice picture of Jake ready to post here, but something is wrong with my web connection and it was taking forever to upload, so I decided to skip it.)

Ah, I love these days.

I love having the windows open; the fresh smell, the nice breeze, the low electric bill (relatively speaking, of course).

We've been spending lots of time outside, too. Doing schoolwork on the trampoline and in the treehouse is really motivating for my nature loving daughter!

So the other day, while we were adding fractions outside, Jacob kept wanting me to push him in the swing. I pushed him several times, but then I decided that maybe it was time that he learned to swing himself!

I told him how to do it. I got him started and then began chanting, "Out, in! Out, in!" trying to correspond with his swinging motion. He obediently stuck his legs out and pulled them in when he was supposed to. But was he swinging himself?

No.

He was moving his legs out and in, but that alone was not working. He wasn't doing what was really required to pull himself back and forth. He didn't have the power. He was simply going through the motions.

Sound familiar?

Sometimes people go through the motions too. Go to church. Pray. Read Christian literature. Do good deeds.

But we're not robots. God desires genuine fellowship with us. He created us in His own image, so that we could have relationship with Him as our Father.

Jake was getting nowhere by only going through the motions. Neither will you. It may satisfy for a while, and make you feel like you are on the right track, but eventually you will wear out, because you are not drawing from the real Source of Strength.

We don't have to settle for the motions, because the same Power which spoke the universe into existence is available to us! The same Power which defeated death and brought everlasting life to mankind is available to us!

Going through the motions--trying to follow Christ without having a real relationship with Him--is fruitless.

I could go on and on about the different implications of this, but for now, this is where I'll leave it. Just something to think about...

Spotless

2010-04-07T21:51:00.010-04:00

I was standing in the loft (as we call it), which overlooks the living room and dining area of our home. The house had been straightened up, the kids were all tucked in, and the lamplight was providing a cozy atmosphere in the now quiet house. The dining room light was on too, and as I stood at the balcony, I performed a mental appraisal of my view.

It all looked so perfect!

The dining room table was shining in the reflection of the chandelier, the hardwood floor looked spotless, the carpet in the living room looked clean and inviting.

Then, as if snapping back to reality, I started remembering things. I started remembering the giant scratch on the table that I made a few years ago with the back of a clock. I remembered the rugged etching in the wood, produced by my son with a fork. I started recalling all the scratches and spots on the hardwood, made from things such as Hotwheels and milk, respectively.

I then remembered the spots on the carpet, some of which were caused by the time Ashlyn's upset stomach couldn't handle a red popsicle. No amount of Oxy-Clean or Clorox has gotten that up completely!

None of those imperfections were visible from where I was standing, but I knew that they were there and could easily be seen with a closer look.

We are all imperfect aren't we? And we know it. Then why do we stand from afar and look in on others and compare ourselves and think that they are perfect? Everybody has scratches, dents and spots, sometimes caused by the most vile of circumstances, sometimes caused by accidents, and always caused by sin.

That's where we are as humans. We are all in the same need of God's Umbrella of Grace.

And once we are underneath, we are covered by Christ's perfection in the sight of God. Then, and only then, do we really become

Spotless.

The Great Exchange, Part 2

2010-04-02T07:36:00.004-04:00

I have read this passage so many times:

He was pierced through for our transgressions

He was crushed for our iniquities

The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him

And by His scourging we are healed.

All of us like sheep have gone astray

Each of us has turned to his own way

But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all

To fall on Him.

Isaiah 53:5-6

I always knew what it meant, but it wasn't until a couple of years ago that I really realized something. I realized that how we often focus on the physical brutality of what Jesus endured. For sure, that is significant. It was ugly, horrible, and no doubt worse than anything we can imagine. However, I realized that God, in His wisdom, knew that we (as humans) can relate to physical pain. And as ugly and appalling as the torture that Jesus endured is to us, that is how ugly, horrible, and beyond imagination our sin is to God our Father.

As a human, the physical torment was horrible to Jesus. But as God the Son, I imagine that the bearing of the sin of all mankind was worse.

He bore the wrath of God that we deserved.

The ugliness of our sin was put upon Him, and He took the punishment.

The Jews who watched Him die mistakenly thought that Jesus was being punished for His own sin (Isaiah 53:4). But He was the substitute. Our substitute. He was the sinless God-man, experiencing both physical and spiritual punishment so that we would not have to; so that instead, we could experience freedom from condemnation.

We recently bought Emily a Bible that is the International Children's Bible translation. Here is Isaiah 53:5-6 from her Bible:

But he was wounded for the wrong things we did.

He was crushed for the evil things we did.

The punishment, which made us well, was given to Him,

And we are healed because of His wounds.

We all have wandered away like sheep.

Each of us has gone his own way.

But the Lord has put on Him the punishment

For all the evil we have done.

Today is Good Friday. No doubt that many of you will be thinking on these things today and praising God that He provided the Substitute for our atonement. I pray that you will have a weekend full of reflection and thanksgiving for the One who took the punishment that we deserve.

The Great Exchange, Part 1

2010-03-30T06:35:00.007-04:00

With this week being the week before Easter, we are being even more intentional in talking about the "Easter" story. Yesterday, I had a discussion with the children (after reading to them about the life and death and life of Jesus) about some of the primary accusers of our Savior....the Pharisees.

The Pharisees were one of the most "upstanding" (in their own eyes) citizens, weren't they? They were the keepers of the law! They followed the book to a tee. Yet Jesus reserved His most harsh words for this group of "religious leaders". The problem was, they didn't just keep the law. They added to the law. They worshipped the law. They glorified themselves in the name of following the Holy God.

I am tempted to quote the entirety of Matthew 23 here, but, for obvious reasons, I will not. But I ask you to read it, and as you do, think about the church today.

What have we, in the name of Christianity, added to the commandments of Jesus to love the Lord with our heart, soul, mind and strength and to love our neighbors as ourselves?

Consider these man-made traditions: dressing up for church, singing only certain kinds of songs, using only a certain translation of the Bible, going to church several times a week. I'm not saying that those things are wrong in and of themselves, but they become wrong when they are seen as rules instead of personal preferences.

They become wrong when they are kept and then used to promote ourselves as more holy than others.

They are wrong when they become more important than following Christ--which has nothing to do with following a set of rules, but has everything to do with freedom from sin and the law (Galatians 5:1).

The Bible is clear that as Christians, we are simply to be like Christ (Ephesians 5:1-2). On the cross, He exchanged death for life, and freed us from the law of sin and death. Does that give us a license to sin? Of course not!!!! Galatians 5:13-14 says, "For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself'."

Freedom from the law means that we are free to fulfill the law of Christ, which is love (Galatians 6:2). It means that we are no longer bound by sin. It means that we should not be like the Pharisees, who believed that keeping man-made traditions would somehow make them greater in the eyes of God (Matthew 15).

Yes, Jesus had hard words for those people. He called them hypocrites, white-washed tombs and a brood of vipers--and this was the "religious" group.

Jesus' death and resurrection was so much more than we sometimes understand. He set us free, and He wants us to walk daily with Him--not so that we will be glorified and simply look holy, but so that He will be glorified and we can be holy.

The Non-Distractors

2010-03-26T23:08:00.006-04:00

After last week, I decided that something had to change. Maybe you know what I'm talking about, or maybe I'm the only homeschooler who wonders what it would be like to get through a lesson without "distractions". What are these distractions of which I speak?

My younger children.

I know. I'm terrible.

It seems that sometimes I have a mindset which causes me to sometimes view my younger kids as hinderances to the older ones' learning, because they sometimes "interrupt" our studies. Granted, there are times when Ashlyn needs to work alone to keep from being distracted, but this week a light bulb came on in my head. This is nothing new to many homeschoolers, but I finally realized (after much prayer) that the beauty of home education is that my children can (and should) learn together!

We have started doing some studies together--even including Jacob, who has trouble sitting still, but is picking up on all kinds of stuff. It's been really fun doing this, and we are actually looking at a new curriculum for next year that is aimed at teaching all children together!

This week I sort of rearranged things in the schedule and made a greater effort to make sure that everyone truly participated in the morning Bible reading/study.

It paid off Thursday, when we had been reading about Lazarus being raised from the dead (about which, by the way, after I said that Lazarus might have even already started to stink, Emily proclaimed, "God made him smell good!") Jacob decided he wanted to "read" from his Bible. He opened up his little New Testament and very emphatically stated, "God made stuff! He made airplanes, rockets and helicopters!" I laughed, because that's where he is right now! Every time we have discussions concerning Jesus, he says something about the things that God made. I know that he really is gleaning information not only from Jason and me, but from his sisters as well.

This has made me feel so refreshed with our school days. I feel like I can relax a bit and instead of say "It's time for school!", I can say "It's time to learn!" and my precious little "distractions" become welcome contributors.

I don't know what took me so long to figure this out...

My Dad

2010-03-23T22:36:00.000-04:00

Last week, my dad had a birthday, so we had a birthday party for him! Naturally, Emily wanted to know what "kind" of birthday party he would be having. She was so sincere when she asked, "I mean, will it be Tinkerbell, or horses, or...just what kind of birthday party will it be?" I knew then that we should come up with something!!

So, fifteen minutes before the family arrived, I dressed Jake in a train engineer costume that my sister-in-law had given me (thanks Aimee!) We decided to have a train party, and that was the best we could do. But that was very appropriate, given that my dad is a retired engineer! I was shocked when my dad walked in with HIS engineer cap on too! That was such a cool coincidence!

In honor of his birthday, I want to share just a few reasons why I think my dad is awesome! Here they are:

1) He is likable. He never meets a stranger, and rarely does a non-stranger go away from Dad without hearing about Christ.

2) When Dad was nineteen, he was in a horrible car accident with some of his friends. He lay in a coma for a full week, his family unsure that he would ever wake up. But he did wake up, and when he did, he was never to be the same. God had spared his life, and for Dad there was no other option but to live his life for HIM.

3) Dad loves God and has a passion for seeing others experience salvation and grow in their faith. He has one of most evangelistic hearts that I know. I have seen him share his testimony with "strangers" and friends alike, and I am aware of many occasions where he cared enough about people to lovingly confront their sin.

4) Dad has always been an example of gentleness and patience.

5) Dad taught me the futility of worry.

6) Dad has kept a diary which contains events from every day for as long as I can remember. He can tell you what happened on any given day since...sometime in the 70's.

7) Dad has a major sweet tooth (which he graciously passed on to me....thanks Dad).

8) Dad loves solitude.

9) My dad has unparalleled devotion to his family. Not only has he always been a faithful husband and father, he is also a devoted son, not hesitating to help take care of his aging parents.

10) My dad is not afraid to show me and tell me how much he loves me. If I have a need, whether it be helping with the kids or helping me get my vehicle (with all the keys lost) to the dealership to have new ones made, Dad will always put himself last and help. He's just that kind of guy.

11) Dad goes the extra mile to make you feel special! This was the sign he made for my birthday "party"!

Well, I could go on and on.

You know, Dad has spent many hours of his life on a train, making sure that freight gets where it needs to be and that it gets there safely.

Sometime in the near future, Dad will be boarding another train, but this time as a passenger. He is taking a trip across the country via Amtrak. I have no doubt that on this trip he will meet many non-strangers, and that within those brief exchanges, many will hear about the One who can change lives, and can get them where they need to be.

I've learned so much from my Dad, and I cannot even express the gratitude I feel to the Lord for allowing me to be raised my a father who loves, cherishes, instructs and honors his family like mine does.

Thanks Dad. :)

The End of the Rainbow

2010-03-17T22:33:00.003-04:00

We learned about St. Patrick today (go figure). :)

We all wore green (even if the kids didn't think my "khaki" green was green). All day, no matter where we went, my kids were the "green" police. When we pulled into the church parking lot, we saw Harold getting out of his truck, and immediately Ashlyn said, "Uh-oh! Harold's not wearing green!" I don't think she pinched him though (that's not to say that no one got pinched of course).

We also talked about Irish folklore--gold, luck, rainbows and leprechauns. I had come across this recipe on a magazine's website, and I thought it would be fun, especially considering my kids' love of rainbows. Turns out, it was fun!

I guess you could say we found our pot o' gold. :)

And Then There Was Jake

2010-03-14T22:34:00.004-04:00

Look at this kid. I mean, really look at this kid.

The expression. The pointing finger. The jeans.

I do a lot of praying about Jacob. Not that I don't pray for my other kids. In fact, I pray specifically for all of them every day. But with Jacob, I find myself whispering a lot of "in the moment" prayers.

As the above photo so accurately exhibits, Jacob is a child who does his own thing. For example, if Jake doesn't feel like talking to you, he doesn't whine, or say he doesn't want to talk, or even look at you. You are just invisible to him.

If Jacob wants a bouncy ball from the bouncy ball machine at soccer, and you tell him that you're sorry but you don't have a quarter, he doesn't hear you say that. He just keeps asking and you keep having to tell him over and over that you physically cannot get him a bouncy ball even if you wanted to. It doesn't matter to him. He didn't hear that. He just keeps asking.

If Jacob doesn't want to take a nap, and he screams and cries because you are making him, and so you decide to discipline him for his disrespect, he doesn't care. He will take the discipline and continue to scream and cry so much that you finally have to shut the door and hold it shut so he doesn't succeed in trying to get out, and then you have to (with one hand because the other hand is on the doorknob) reach to the nearby bookshelf and find your copy of The Strong-Willed Child by Dr. Dobson and frantically search the pages to see if there is any other advice for this situation, all while saying an "in the moment" prayer that God would help you to stay in control!

Whew. Just remembering that day wears me out.

Jacob is a good kid. He is also a funny kid. He's a darn cute kid too. He is a good, funny, cute kid...with a very strong will.

I have prayed lots of prayers for wisdom concerning this three year old boy. This task of parenting sometimes seems daunting, doesn't it? But God knows our children. He knows my little boy. He knew what He was doing when He gave him to us, and He has equipped us (though sometimes I question!) to help shape this strong will that He has given Jacob. I mean, if the conviction with which Jake lives his life as a three year old carries over into a life that longs to please the Lord, I can't imagine how much he will be used for the Kingdom!

I'm nowhere near a perfect parent. These "battles" with Jake wear me out sometimes! I always pray that I will know where to draw that fine line of Godly discipline and arbitrary punishment. I try to stick to the areas of disrespect and disobedience, and, you know, if he wants to wear his pants backwards or sport his monster truck galoshes when it's ninety degrees outside, I'll let it go. Some battles aren't worth fighting! I want to spend my energy on the ones that are, and trust that God will show me how to do it, since He knows my son better than I do!

But oh, how I love this kid. He's awesome...backwards jeans and all.

The Real Amy Liddle

2010-03-09T22:38:00.007-05:00

If you've been following my blog for any reasonable amount of time, you may notice that lately I've been a little restless with the layout, etc. So, in that spirit, I am also in the process of trying to add a few things and have updated my profile.

As I was doing that, I was thinking about all the different people I've "been" over the years (daughter, sister, wife, mother, etc.), it reminded me of an area in my life in which God has totally transformed me.

I'll start with this example:

When I was younger, growing up in a small town, I was always receiving compliments for the way I sang. (Please understand that this is not a boastful statement; instead it is a truthful one that is necessary to prove my point.)

As I grew up and continued singing, I kept receiving praise. Maybe too much praise, because over those formative years, even though I always had a desire to grow in my faith, I was unknowingly being held captive by something: my identity. You see, by the time I finished high school and entered college, my whole identity was wrapped up in who I was as a musician. In other words, I needed praise from people in regards to my music. I needed it so much that if i didn't have it, I felt completely defeated as a person. That is very unstable ground, my friends. Unfortunately, for people who have spent time in the spotlight, it is an easy trap to fall into.

I cannot say enough about God's patience with me. He never gave up on me. Even though I struggled in those areas, I suppose He saw in me a heart that was seeking Him as much as it could. He gently brought me to the realization (though gentle is not always without pain) that I was not merely Amy the singer. He taught me that I was much more, created in His image, and that He wanted me to rest in that fact that I was simply...His.

Fast forward through several years and a lot of growing up....

These days, I still love making music. It is a gift that I choose to give back to God. But what's different about these days is that I don't need the praise of others to confirm that I have done that. I have learned that when I sing, God is "hearing" my heart. He knows when I am doing it for Him and when I am doing it for others. It matters to me what He thinks of me. I can rest in the fact that music is a part of who I am, but it is not who I am.

I could go on and on about other facets of my life that I have had (or am currently trying) to lay aside and then realize that I am simply...Amy: forgiven, loved and blameless because of Christ. And you know what? Because God cares enough for me to bring me around, I am also free.

Free from having to depend on others for my joy.

Free from having to worry about making a mistake.

Free to live my life according to what God brings my way, not according to others' expectations (although I would be lying if I said that I have perfected this!)

So, who am I?

Forgiven.

Loved.

Free.

His.

That's who I am.

A Giant in the Faith

2010-03-08T06:45:00.006-05:00

Lately, I've been reading a book called 50 People Every Christian Should Know by Warren W. Wiersbe. It's basically 50 mini-biographies of some of the great "spiritual giants" such as Charles Spurgeon, Jonathan Edwards, A. W. Tozer and Oswald Chambers.

I have been amazed at some of the stories I've been reading, so I had to share at least one.

Have you ever heard of Fanny Crosby? She lived from 1820-1915 and wrote.....get ready for this......8,000 hymns. EIGHT THOUSAND!! Many of them have long been forgotten, but many of them are still being sung today, including "Blessed Assurance," "Jesus, Keep My Near the Cross," and "All the Way My Savior Leads Me".

I was particularly moved by her story, although I had heard part of it before. When she was only six weeks old, she had a minor eye inflammation and as a result of the doctor's careless treatment, she was left blind. Here is what she said of that "unfortunate" circumstance: "It seemed intended by the blessed Providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank Him for the dispensation."

About the doctor, she said, "If I could meet him now, I would say, 'Thank you, thank you'--over and over again, for making me blind."

Here is the reason, as the book goes on to say,

"In fact, she claimed that if she could have her sight restored, she would not attempt it. She felt that her blindness was God's gift to her so that she could write songs for His glory. 'I could not have written thousands of hymns,' she said, 'if I had been hindered by the distractions of seeing all the interesting and beautiful objects that would have been presented to my notice.'

She wrote her first poem when she was eight years old.

Here it is.

Oh, what a happy child I am,

Although I cannot see!

I am resolved that in this world

Contented I will be.

How many blessings I enjoy

That other people don't!

So weep or sigh because I'm blind,

I cannot, or I won't!"

How convicting that is! Reading about these ordinary people who had extraordinary faith has been such an encouragement to me to keep the faith and seek God all the more.

Funny Kids!

2010-03-02T16:23:00.005-05:00

My Favorite Quotes For Today

Jacob, in the car after I turned on the radio...

"I know this...this is K-Love! I like K-Love. But 'specially I like Michael Jackson."

Emily, after being asked what she wants to be when she grows up....

"I want to be a Professional That Knows Jesus Ballet-er."

My Favorite Experience

2010-03-01T14:26:00.007-05:00

Whew!! It's been busy around here the past few days. I'm glad to finally get the chance to sit down and share about my favorite experience at the Creation Museum...the Planetarium.

Ashlyn is taking a wonderful science course in Astronomy this year. WE have learned so much this year, as there are whole chapters on each planet, plus the moon, space rocks, stars and Pluto. She has been fascinated and I have been utterly amazed at the perfect design of God's universe. She has admitted several times that it's hard to believe how God could be so big and yet care about us. That has given me many opportunities to share Scripture with her about how God knows the number of hairs on our heads and how he cares more for us than anything. It's been good.

Our visit to the planetarium just exercised our minds even further, as we were "taken" to the outskirts of our galaxy, only to see more and more galaxies.

So many stars.

So many planets.

So many miles.

So many questions.

My mind was blown once again. All I could do was be humbled that out of all of His Creation, we are the most prized. Earth is so small in comparison, but it was here that He chose to place His masterpiece. And then, when we betrayed Him, it was here that He sent His beloved Son to die...

for me....

and for you,

so that we could share in His eternal glory. It's difficult to comprehend that it was planned that way from the beginning.

Ashlyn and I have agreed many times during our study of the universe that we cannot wait to be with God so that we may have answers to all of our questions. It will be a sweet time, for sure. But until then, I live by faith, believing that His Word is truth. In addition, God has used science to give us glimpses of His handiwork and proof that He is truth.

I know that if I feel like falling prostrate in worship merely by what I see from a projector in a planetarium, I cannot imagine what it will be like to see my Father in all His glory, face to face.

Now that will be a great experience.

Lift up your eyes on high

And see who has created these stars,

The One who leads forth their host by number,

He calls them all by name;

Because of the greatness of His might

And the strength of His power,

Not one of them is missing.

Isaiah 40:26

Field Trip!

2010-02-25T23:34:00.004-05:00

Jacob looks like he just whipped that dinosaur.

Today we took a field trip.....to the Creation Museum!

This is the second trip we have made to the museum and I was just as impressed with it this time around.

I had a lot of thoughts today, and I will be posting on some of them soon. I'm too tired tonight!

This One

2010-02-24T06:32:00.006-05:00

Last night I made a trip to the grocery store. I'd planned on going by myself, but at the last minute Emily decided she wanted to tag along. I was fine with that, because it is a rare treat to get to spend a couple of hours with just one kid.

In the car, I had the radio on at first, but then I decided to take advantage of this occasion and have some uninterrupted conversation with my 5 year old.

She had been to ballet the night before, so I asked, "Emily, what do you like best about dancing?"

She thought, and answered with a drawn out, "Well...."

She thought some more. "I like it because....."

And some more. "Well......"

She looked out the window thoughtfully and thought some more. "Ummmm......"

Finally she said, "Hmmm.....I don't know."

"Really? After all of that thinking you don't know? Why do you like dance so much?"

"Well....I just like the way she teaches me."

I smiled.

I had promised Emily that we could buy a new fish for our aquarium at the store. She was so excited. We walked back to the animal department and starting evaluating all the different types of fish, trying to decide on just the right one. There were some lovely fruit tetras and some very colorful glo fish--even pink ones that I was sure she would choose. There were other sorts of colorful fish that I thought would add some interest to our tank.

But there was one aquarium with a lone fish. He was a small fellow--a little black tetra with a beat up fin. He wasn't nearly as outstanding as the colorful fish that we had seen, yet this was the one Emily chose, because, she said, "He looks lonely".

I smiled.

I so enjoy those moments when I get to spend one on one time with my kids. In Emily's case, it just reminded me of her compassionate heart and her thoughtful spirit. She enjoyed the opportunity to be my helper in the store without having to take turns with anyone. I think times like that are important every now and then, and it made the usually dreaded trip to the grocery store a more enjoyable one!

The Answer

2010-02-23T06:30:00.006-05:00

It had been a long day.

We had first driven thirty minutes north to our family doctor to have Jacob's finger checked out. For those of you who don't know, he pulled a marble lamp off of the table Saturday night and it landed on his index finger! The doc thinks that it could be broken, but because of where the swelling is, it probably isn't. We will get an x-ray tomorrow if he hasn't increased his range of motion. He's a tough little guy!

After that, we came home, grabbed some lunch, then drove thirty minutes south to Ashlyn's first orthodontist appointment. She gets a retainer in four weeks.

Now, to the typical person, that may not seem like very much to do in one day. But for the five of us,

two hours of driving

+ waiting for doctors

+ missing of naps

+ trying to figure out when to fit in Evan's mealtimes

a really long day.

As we were approaching home, tensions were rising. Emily was kicked by Jake as she got out of the car, and then she hit Ashlyn because Ashlyn was being rude to her. Having had enough, I put them all in separate rooms. After a few minutes, I gathered them together on the couch and I said, "Are you all being unkind to one another?"

"Yes."

"Why are you doing that?"

Ashlyn's reply surprised me. "Because Adam and Eve sinned."

I was taken aback. I mean, yeah, we've talked about the sin nature of humankind since the Fall of Man, but....she had actually been listening!! She wasn't using that as a scapegoat--she was exhibiting some real understanding about our sinful nature. We went on to talk about how we are all in need of the grace of God through Jesus, and when we were finished, they apologized to each other without any prompting from me--for the first time EVER! That was huge to me.

I praise God for giving me that moment, because it lets me know that they realize (or are realizing) that righteousness comes only through Christ, and that they recognize their need for a Savior. It was just one of those rewarding moments that I will never forget.

That Jacob

2010-02-20T22:37:00.006-05:00

Tonight we attended "Family Game Night", an event at church hosted by our children's ministry. It was such a great time. We had supper and then each family sat together to play the games that were planned, including racing against other families to work a puzzle, build a straw tower (drinking straws), and "shave" whipped cream off of the dads' faces while blindfolded!!!

On the way home, Jason said, "If you had fun tonight, say 'The Liddle Family!'"

So I said, "The Liddle Family!"

Ashlyn said, "The Liddle Family!"

Emily said, "The Liddle Family!"

Jacob paused and then said, "The Big Family!"

Living In the Light

2010-02-20T08:30:00.008-05:00

The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn,

That shines brighter and brighter until the full day.

The way of the wicked is like darkness;

They do not know over what they stumble.

Proverbs 4:18-19

As humans, we naturally associate darkness with fear and evil. We associate light with goodness and comfort. The Bible is no different, since God associates light with the righteous and darkness with the wicked.

Consider this:

Darkness hates light,

because light always overcomes darkness.

Where there is light, there will never be complete darkness.

As I ponder these truths, I think about how Jesus is the Light of the world. I think about how this world is full of darkness, because it is inhabited by the powers of darkness. Christ's light has already overcome the darkness of this world. Therefore with His power in me, I need not be afraid. This is a truth that I not only want to remember for myself, but that I want to embed into the hearts of my children as well.

The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn,

That shines brighter and brighter until the full day.

The way of the wicked is like darkness;

They do not know over what they stumble.

Three Weeks

2010-02-18T07:09:00.003-05:00

Three weeks ago, Jason went on a ski trip with some friends.

When he returned, he gave brought me back a bouquet of flowers.

I took this picture yesterday, three weeks from the day I received the flowers.

They are still beautiful...even after three weeks!

Hope

2010-02-17T18:09:00.006-05:00

A few months ago, my brother gave us a plant that had set on his shaded deck during the summer. It's an indoor plant, and it sat in our garage for a while, though I had intentions of bringing it in "soon" (do you know how that is?).

One fall night (it was closer to winter), it got very cold. The plant sat in the cold garage all night.

I finally brought the plant in.

The plant died a slow death. The leaves began to wilt, and then they became dry. What was once a beautiful, thriving plant had become a brown, dry eyesore.

And eyesore it was. I don't know what is with me, but I let the dead plant hang out in our dining room for several weeks. Even when we had visitors who had never been to our home, I still did not remove the plant.

Why? I don't know!!! Probably for the same reason it took me so long to get the plant inside!

Anyway, a few weeks ago, I spotted something incredible. I saw green on the plant. It was trying to grow back! (Perhaps if you have a green thumb, you may not find this incredible. I do NOT have a green thumb and did not expect to see this!) I got my pruning shears and cut back all the dead that was there...basically every bit of foliage there was.

Now, the plant is thriving and is becoming beautiful again.

When I think of the spiritual application of this, one word comes to mind.

Hope.

When all looks to be dead, there is Hope. His name is Jesus Christ.

He was dead, and now He lives.

I was dead, and now I live.

Thank You, Lord, for Hope.

The Word War

2010-02-16T06:26:00.007-05:00

I don't consider myself to be the most outspoken person in the world, but there are, undeniably, words that slip from my lips that should have never even been formed in my heart to begin with.

Words of hurt. Words of anger. Words of sarcasm. Words that bring no goodness whatsoever to anyone.

It breaks my heart to think that many of the times when those words are actually spoken, they are aimed at my children or my husband--the people I love more than anyone in the world.

Why is that?

I don't think it's as important to know the answer to that as it is to actually realize how damaging my words can be. I mean, it doesn't happen all the time. Many times I don't actually say what I'm thinking (especially when I'm angry). But also many times I do. Sometimes I am more harsh with my kids than I realize (like if there was a hidden camera I would be so embarrassed). Sometimes I spew words of hurt towards my husband when I think he deserves it. Since when did I become judge?

The past couple of days I read, as I do sometimes, the chapters of Proverbs which correspond with the date. Yesterday I read chapter fifteen and today, sixteen. These words pierced my heart:

Proverbs 15:1 - A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:28 - The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.

My words can make a difference, and a soft, well-thought-out answer can turn the tide in the midst of conflict.

Proverbs 15:2 - The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, but the mouth of fools spouts folly.

Proverbs 16:21 - The wise in heart will be called understanding, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness.

Proverbs 16:23 - The heart of the wise instructs his mouth and adds persuasiveness to his lips.

Listening is good. We are wise when we instruct our mouths.

Finally, here was our family's memory verse for last week:

Proverbs 16:24 - Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

Not only do pleasant words foster an atmosphere of understanding and forgiveness, but they also yield the fruit of love, self-control and kindness. Our words can bring healing to others, and when we have the kind of heart and attitude that brings about pleasant words, healing comes to us as well.

These are many thoughts to ponder, and just a few of many Bible verses pertaining to our speech. I will ponder them, and pray that I can make my words count for goodness and edification, especially to the ones I love the most.

Yay for New Life!

2010-02-14T07:18:00.003-05:00

Emma, me and my little bro.

My sweet new niece was born this past Thursday! She weighed only one ounce less than Evan did, but now Evan looks HUGE next to her!

It's amazing how fast they grow.

She is named Emma Elizabeth, after her mother, and both of them are doing great!

Why We Like Thursdays

2010-02-11T22:04:00.006-05:00

Today, on the way home from co-op, I asked Jake, "So what did you learn in co-op today?"

Without hesitation, he replied, "I learned about snacks."

I laughed, because I know my kids, and I know how much they love snacks. So of course it is only natural that snacktime is what stood out to him!

Jake loves going to co-op. So does Emily. So does Ashlyn. So do I.

It's a great break from the normal routine, and for them, a great chance to see their friends and learn about things that perhaps I am not so good at teaching. Things like art.

For me, it's a chance to get to know other moms who are in the same stage of life as me, facing similar challenges and experiencing similar joys. It's a chance to check myself against other homeschooling methods, curricula and schedules, not to compare, but to gain insight and ideas (I need plenty of those). It's a good chance for me to just enjoy having conversations, knowing that my children are in good hands-- learning, playing, and of course.....snacking.

Thank you, my co-op friends. You are a blessing!

The Face of Love

2010-02-04T06:58:00.003-05:00

Lately, feeding Evan has been...sweet.

Not that it hasn't always been sweet. As a nursing mom, and especially knowing that this (barring a miracle) is my last child, I have a particular fondness for Evan's mealtimes. But the little guy is stealing my heart even more these days.

He seems to be having trouble focusing on his need for nourishment.
Instead, he wants to focus on my face.

It takes me twice as long to nurse, because I can't deny myself--I spend as much time gazing back as he seems to desire.

Yeah, I know that all babies love faces. But still, he's studying me. He's getting to know me. I like to think that he's telling me he loves me.

There's something about looking directly into someone's eyes, isn't there? There's an intimacy, a manifestation of the desire to really know someone.

It reminds me of my need to constantly seek Someone's face. Someone who loves me with a love even greater than mine for my children (though hard to imagine). Someone who will give me all the nourishment I need to live in this love-starved world. Someone whom I desperately long to know better.

"Your face, O Lord, I shall seek."
Psalm 27:8

Blessings

2010-01-26T06:47:00.007-05:00

As I sit here and write this morning, I am holding a precious child in my arms. He is growing so quickly, and when I gaze at him, I wonder, "What will he look like when he is bigger? What sorts of things will he like to do? What kind of personality will he have?" I look upon him and I say a silent "thank you" to God for yet another blessing that has been bestowed upon our family.

BLESSING. Do I deserve it? No. Have I earned it? Absolutely not. If God were not so gracious and if He gave me what I deserved, I would have no salvation, let alone all of the other good things in life I have. Even in the midst of any adversity I might face, He graciously gives me strength.

Sometimes we look at things a little backwards, thinking that life is supposed to be filled with great things and that when we come upon hard times, then "it's not fair". I have thought it many times! We have this sense of entitlement, where we think (perhaps even on a sub-conscious level) that we deserve only good. But one thing that encourages me when I do face difficult circumstances is knowing that it is only because of God and His goodness that I am blessed.

I believe in the complete sovereignty of God the Father. However, I also believe that we are not puppets and that He gives us choices. I don't have to "understand" Him to love and trust Him, any more than I have to understand exactly how this writing reaches your computer from mine. Not understanding doesn't keep me from using the internet and writing this blog!

In Isaiah 1:19-20, a choice is offered. It reads, "If you consent and obey, you will eat the best of the land. But if you refuse and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword." The Israelites were offered that choice in Deuteronomy 28 too, and God even gave specific blessings and curses that would be received, depending on the choice that was made. For us, salvation is obviously the most important "choice" we can make. But then, after salvation, we still live our lives and must daily decide whether or not we will live out the teachings of Jesus or whether we will be stubborn and live according to our "rights" (Luke 9:23).

Each day, we are faced with making choices of blessing or cursing. To follow Christ (forgiving, showing compassion) leads to blessing. To deny His teachings and follow what "feels right" as humans (harboring anger, refusing to forgive), leads to a life of sorrow and regret. Are there hardships in the "blessed" life? Absolutely. But there is blessing and growth, even in the pain, therefore, the blessed life will even consider adversity rewarding (James 1:2-4). On the other hand, when we (as Christians) choose to walk in our own way, we will only grow in our stubbornness and pride, which brings misery to ourselves and shame to our walk with Christ.

God desires to bless us. He rewards the faithful and brings much life and light to those who are wholly devoted to Him!

Messes

2010-01-19T21:17:00.006-05:00

Tonight my kitchen floor is really dirty. Like, it's really crummy (as in it is covered in crumbs). It doesn't matter how often I clean it, it seems that there are always crumbs lying around (that's what I get for having darker hardwood that shows everything). All day today I knew that my floor needed cleaning, but I just haven't had time!

Tonight, Jake reached for his cup of milk on the counter--forgetting, apparently, that he had asked for it to be in a cup that was not a sippy cup--and spilled it all over my already filthy kitchen floor! He thought he was in big trouble, but we don't cry over spilled milk, right? I resisted the urge to scold him (since it was merely an accident) and started cleaning it up. He eagerly grabbed a towel and offered to help, so we cleaned the mess together!

When we were finally finished, I realized that my floor was way cleaner now than it had been before--at least in that area!!

Allow me to paraphrase. My floor was already a mess, but not messy enough for me to take the time to clean it. Then a major spill happened, which forced me to clean it thoroughly. In the end, the floor was clean, crumbs and all. The spilled milk served a purpose, didn't it?

This is my blog, and I can post whatever I want, right? But all I will say is this: to a certain group of people reading this (you know who you are), let's remember this analogy. Sometimes a bad situation, although discouraging (to put it very mildly), can open our eyes, and then in the end, we find ourselves in a place that is more beautiful than ever before.

She Cracks Me Up

2010-01-14T07:38:00.005-05:00

My kids make me laugh.

Here was the dialogue from the other night:

Me: Emily, what would you like on your burger?

Emily: Um, that round thing....

Me: A tomato?

Emily: No! It's round....it's like ham or something?

Me: Hmmm...an onion?

Emily: (getting increasingly frustrated) No! It's like...it's round!! I have one upstairs [in her play food box]. I'll go get it.

She comes back downstairs with a play pancake.

Well, I couldn't find it, but it looks like this [she is circling the pancake with her finger]. It's ROUND like this. But it's like....it's like deer meat or something.

I pick up a burger to place it on the bread (we were having frisco melts).

Emily: That!!! That's what I want on my burger...that brown round thing you're picking up!

Problem solved. Emily wanted a burger on her burger. Good one Em!

Snow Days!

2010-01-11T16:35:00.007-05:00

Happy Snow everyone!!! We are loving the snow. The kids went sledding the other day in whopping 14 degree weather. It doesn't even phase them, it seems. Just give 'em a hill and sled and they forget about the temperature. I love it!

This past Friday, we made bird feeders with pine cones. We spread peanut butter on the pine cones (which were huge ones that I got from my brother when he lived in Georgia), then we sprinkled them with as much bird seed as we could.

We took them outside and replaced our regular bird feeders with these. I wasn't sure if the birds would like them, but as you will see in the photos below, they are a hit!! Ashlyn told me about the idea after she saw it on the Disney Channel (three special steps...anybody with me here?) :)

Do you like Jake's new snowsuit? I found this on sale and decided to get it. The first thing he said when I put it on him was "I don't have to wear pink!" (For a refresher on why he said this, click here.)

Check out the Tufted Titmouse enjoying our birdfeeder! It's almost time for a refill!

Her Thankful Heart

2010-01-08T08:11:00.003-05:00

This is what Ashlyn said during her prayer last night:

"Lord, thank you for putting me in a mommy's belly who loves Jesus."

That just really touched my heart.

My Brown Eyed Boy

2010-01-06T22:00:00.006-05:00

This little guy turns 3 tomorrow.

After having two girls, and not knowing what #3 would be, I went into the hospital thinking that it really didn't matter to me. I remember thinking that I would really be just as happy if it was another girl. HOWEVER, when I was in surgery, and my doctor exclaimed the words, "It's a boy!" I realized how much I must have really wanted a boy down deep. I was so happy!! I remember crying as soon as I heard those words!
When I get out the vacuum cleaner, I usually have to fight Jake for it. He loves to "bacern clean"!! Don't worry, I always take advantage of his eagerness to help. He like to suck up dirt with the hose, which always needs to be done somewhere in the house!
We decided to have his "Monster Jam" party a little early so that his cousins from Texas could come!
Jake loves to be outside. He will walk to Mimi and Poppy's in the dark. He will stay outside and play by himself for as long as I will let him, no matter the weather. I have to be careful, because he likes to roam around (like go to Mom and Dad's without telling me, or down to the woods). He has scared me more than once!!!
Jake got this chainsaw for Christmas because Jason got one, and he loves to imitate his daddy! Oh, how we love our little Jake! He can be the sweetest kid most of the time, using manners and telling me he loves me at random times. He can also be quite mischievous (that is a huge understatement). But he is so sweet with baby Evan and loves to imitate his sisters. I love the way he loves to make people laugh and the way he says, "That's spatastic!" (fantastic). For sure, raising this boy is way different than my experience with my girls, but I love it!

Happy Birthday Jake!!!!

Honor

2009-12-30T10:02:00.004-05:00

I love Christmas! Even though it is technically over, the season is still in full swing for me. I usually wait until we are a few days into the new year before I start taking down my decorations. We are having a great time with all of the family being together this week. The cousins are having a blast together!

On Christmas Day, get together with both my mom and dad's side of the family. This year, on my mom's side, was the first time we had celebrated Christmas without my Mamaw.

This family has been through quite a bit over the passed two years. My Uncle Clint suffered a stroke in January 2008, and then finished the race in November of the same year. In early 2009, my Mamaw started getting worse as a result of lung cancer and COPD, and finished her race in June. But it's the in between times that have impacted me as well.

In the Bible, when we read about God's command to honor our parents, many times we automatically think first about children being obedient, but it goes way beyond that, doesn't it? My mom, aunts and uncles (pictured above, minus one) have been wonderful examples of what it means to honor their parents. I watched as my mother and her siblings spent countless hours tending to Mamaw. Feeding her, giving her medicine, rubbing her feet, reading to her, loving on her........honoring her. They were with her when she drew her final breath, and they continue to honor her and my Papaw today by the way they communicate, get along and show great love for one another.

I say this because as a mother, one of my prayers is that my children will always have love for one another, even after I'm gone. I have heard of families who divide over inheritance and other such issues after the parents have passed away. To me, continuing to love and respect each other, even after both parents are gone is a wonderful way of showing honor to them.

So, thank you to my mom and dad, and my aunts and uncles for providing this wonderful example of love and honor. I pray this kind of blessing over my family as well, believing that God will honor that.

Christmas Week at the Liddles

2009-12-25T22:46:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas!!!

We had a good week here at the Liddle home, starting with the "big snow" we had last weekend! It may have only been a few inches, but it was at least big enough to go sledding and also to make a huge snowman! Jacob and Emily also helped, even though they aren't pictured. Sadly, this snowman didn't last long. He fell forward that night and Ashlyn discovered that his nose had come out the back of his head. :(

On Christmas Eve, we made red velvet cupcakes and I let the kids put icing and sprinkles on them. They each had their own pan of cupcakes and their own portion of icing. Jacob took advantage of this, because most every time I looked over to see how things were going, I caught him sneaking and eating the icing. I let him get by with it most of the time--it's Christmas, right?

Emily's Christmas wish came true this morning when she opened up "Josephina", the American Girl doll that she has talked about for months. So, today at our family dinner, I happened to see her, along with Ashlyn, trying to teach Josephina to walk. I was glad that I had my camera in hand! In the picture, Emily is saying, "Come on, you can do it!!" And Ashlyn walked her over to Emily and then they both hugged her and cheered. HA!

Probably the greatest highlight for me this week was that this was little Evan's first Christmas. Even though he had no clue about the gifts or stockings or turkey or candy, it's always so special having a new one around on Christmas. It's a wonderful reminder of God's gift of life and the miracle of salvation through the birth of a baby many years ago.

So, another Christmas Day has come and (almost) gone, and it was a great one. As I think back on the day's (and the week's) events, and look forward to this coming week when we will celebrate with Jason's family and my brother and sister and their families, I thank God for all the blessings in my life, especially the blessing of His Son, who came to earth so long ago, to save a wretch like me. Thank You Lord!!!

I Stand Corrected....

2009-12-19T21:20:00.004-05:00

This is regarding my previous post where I wrote about Ashlyn's journal entry on the real meaning of Christmas.

Today she made sure that I knew that the two people--the "mourners" as I called them--were not just any two people. They were Mary and Joseph. She pointed out (and I could see it as I looked closely) that she had drawn tears in their eyes.

Mary and Joseph with the baby Jesus in one drawing. Mary and Joseph watching their baby die for all of mankind in the next. All of the meaning that is encompassed in that when you really stop to think about it gave me chills, and I could not help but share it.

What Christmas is All About

2009-12-19T00:39:00.008-05:00

This past Wednesday, one of Ashlyn's school assignments was to write in her journal about what Christmas is all about. This is what she wrote:

Do you know what moves me the most about this? It's the fact that she (without any prompting from me) clearly makes the connection of the cradle to the cross. I mean, she actually drew a manger scene in the corner (you can't see it that well on the scan, but it's there) but the main drawing is that of Jesus hanging on a cross, with the crosses of the thieves and even mourners standing beside.

Please understand that I'm not bragging on Ashlyn as much as I am praising God for working in my child's life to where she is making the connection that Christmas is really about our Savior--our Redeemer.

Every year I wrestle with the worldly view of Christmas--how to handle Santa, presents, and all of the things that have the potential to distract from the true meaning of Christmas. We have never taken drastic measures against those areas (i.e. we still buy gifts and we still leave cookies and milk on the fireplace), but we don't really push it either (well, we might tend to sometimes go a little bit overboard on the gifts). Still, we try to be intentional about teaching Jesus as the true meaning of Christmas and then pray that God will continue to work in their hearts (and ours) about how the Christmas story is really about our redemption from sin.

I think she covered it pretty well, don't you?

My Favorite 5-year Old

2009-12-14T09:09:00.003-05:00

Emily turned 5 yesterday!

We celebrated by having a party/sleepover for her little friends, and it was fun! I did spend all day Saturday cleaning while Emily pretty much just laid around in her pj's the whole time (because, as she said, it was a "hard party"). Yeah, she was pretty tired!

Emily is such a sensitive soul. You know, like when she is about to get in trouble, all I really have to do is just give her a look. To raise my voice at her is never necessary, and when I have done that, it tears her up! She is our little drama queen, which can sometimes be really funny, but sometimes drive me crazy!!! She's a very funny child, and has a very silly, imaginative sense of humor. She is so much fun to be around (and really just to watch when she doesn't know you're looking)!

You know, I had a miscarriage two months before I got pregnant with Emily. I was so saddened by that, and I certainly look forward to seeing that child one day. But God can bring good from any situation, and I believe that Emily is the good that came from that. I can't imagine my life, or our family, without her! She is truly a light, and is a very insightful, loving child.

Happy Birthday sweet Emily!!

When Doubts Arise...

2009-12-09T07:10:00.004-05:00

I remember back a few years ago when we first decided to homeschool. Ashlyn was in preschool and we went back and forth on what to do for her upcoming kindergarten year. I remember Jason and I spending lots of time talking, thinking and praying about how we should approach our children's education. We then decided that we felt led in the area of homeschooling.

It's been a great journey so far! However, it's also been a journey laden with questions, doubt, and trial and error. Sometimes I find myself asking such questions as "Am I ruining my children?" or "Do my kids have too much of me?" I sometimes grow fearful that I am holding them back or that I am depriving them of things that they need. There are days when I feel overwhelmed, trying to meets the needs of my very needy small children, while at the same time trying to make sure Ashlyn is getting in all the learning she needs too. It is during these times that I seem to forget the benefits of homeschooling and all the reasons we chose to do it in the first place.

But even though I know that those thoughts are from the enemy, I still have them, and it seems like sometimes it can be a battle. Jason and I both are secure in our decision to educate our kids at home, and when doubts arise, there is usually only one thing that helps me overcome them. Well, maybe two things.

One is the encouragement I get from other moms who are in the same boat as me. I am so appreciative of people at church or at co-op who encourage me and let me know that they've been (or they are) where I am. That kind of support is invaluable to me!!!

The other thing (and probably the greatest thing) is prayer, and claiming the promises that God gives pertaining to wisdom. I pray all the time that God would turn the hearts of my children toward Him, and that He would work in their lives even when I mess up. I pray all the time for wisdom, whether it be for disciplinary issues or simply how to manage it all. Proverbs 8:17 says of wisdom, "I love those who love me; And those who diligently seek me will find me." I have to believe that! And then in James, God promises that "if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." Sometimes those are the words that get me through the day!

I love being with my kids, and I'm thankful that our family has been led in the direction of homeschooling. I just sometimes wish that I could see the big picture so that I can know for sure that things will turn out right. But, then, I guess if I could do that, I wouldn't need faith, right? My faith is what reminds me that He sees the big picture, and when doubts arise, trusting in His wisdom to lead me is the one thing that I can count on for certain.

Pretty in Pink

2009-12-07T16:01:00.003-05:00

I wanted to get a picture of Jacob wearing this pink snowsuit that belonged to Ashlyn (and then Emily). He was so embarrassed that he wouldn't even look at the camera!! He even asked me afterward, "Mommy, please don't take any more pictures!"

Unfortunately, I didn't get to get a picture of the lavender snow boots he wore (he tried to refuse, but I told him he couldn't play in the snow if he didn't wear them--hey, they fit him and no one was going to see him!!)

Oh, the price of having older sisters!! :)

The True Beauty of Kindness

2009-12-06T22:29:00.006-05:00

First of all, to those of you who have said a prayer for our family during this week of illness...thank you!! We are gradually getting better, although Emily and Jason are still feeling quite icky. Hopefully we will all be well soon!!

Second of all, I would like to mention that while I still have a great desire to keep up with this blog, I have been struggling with the issue of time. However, I hope that you will keep checking, because I plan to keep writing! And in that same vein, I want to thank so many of you for your comments...I love to hear your thoughts and comments!!

I want to continue on with thoughts on the Fruit of the Spirit. I was thinking about kindness and goodness this morning. Kindness is a beautiful thing, isn't it? But as I was thinking about that, I also wondered if sometimes kindness is not always exactly what it seems.

I'm not trying to be cynical--motive is what I'm talking about. If I'm truly honest with myself, can I really say that all of my acts of kindness to others are solely for their benefit? Are there some things that I do, albeit good things, which are done simply to make me feel better about myself or to make me look good in front of others? When I reach out to those in need, is it always because I truly care for them, or is it sometimes out of obligation?

You may wonder why this matters, since good is being done no matter what. Certainly this is true, and the outward benefit to the recipient usually remains the same. What is different, however, is the inward (and eternal) benefit to us. Consider 1 Corinthians 3:12-15:

Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

God sees beyond our outward deeds, doesn't He? He sees the intentions of our hearts. According to this Scripture, our deeds will be tested by fire, and those which are done for eternal good and for the building up of His kingdom will stand. All else will be burned up. I personally believe that this goes for our motives as well, for even when we do good, God would rather it stem from a heart that desires to please Him, not to uplift ourselves.

The Christmas season always presents many opportunities to exhibit kindness and to share goodness with others. This year, evaluate your motives for what you do regarding kindness. Is it self-serving? Or is it out of a genuine concern for those whom you serve? I want my good deeds to count for something not only on earth, but for eternity as well. God will surely multiply the effects of those deeds which are done for His glory alone!

This Day

2009-12-03T22:36:00.004-05:00

It's quiet now. It's 10:37 pm and I can only hear the soothing bubbling of the aquarium, and every now and then the heat pump when it kicks on.

It's been a bit of a rough day, today. Two, possibly three, possibly four of my kids have the flu. My husband has the flu. I might have the flu. I feel okay, but I'm not counting myself out yet.

I'm not writing this to invoke sympathy. I'm just writing because I finally have a moment to sit down and write, and this is what's going on right now!

I want to thank Jesus for helping us through this day!

Got Patience?

2009-11-24T16:54:00.007-05:00

Wow.

I'm really having difficulty finding the time to keep up with this thing.

Maybe it's part poor time management and part just sooooo much to do!!! Maybe I'll get it all figured out one day...but I doubt it!

Still, life is grand, ain't it? I mean, seriously, on the night that I was going to write about "patience", I totally lost it with the kids!!! Jason was gone for the weekend, and we'd had a pretty "good" day (especially when you consider that we all went grocery shopping in a very busy Wal-Mart...which is a hateful experience even when I'm by myself).

So, that night, the kids were being hyper-maniacs. I was trying to get them settled for bed, when BAM!!! I heard a bedroom door slam. That usually is enough, all by itself, to get me fired up, because I have this thing about people slamming doors. Anyway, what made it worse this time is that just as it was being slammed, I happened to look that way just in time to see Jacob barely getting his hand out of way.

I lost it.

I think I scared the kids to death, because they had nowhere to go. Daddy wasn't home. Mimi and Poppy were gone. It was just Mommy and her blaring vocal chords, spewing accusations and threats.

I didn't hit them, or cause them physical harm in any way, but it was the type of rant that made me want to go to my room and cry when I was finished. I'm pretty sure I did.

I also apologized to the kids later, and of course they were, as kids always are, very forgiving.

I'm so thankful that God's forbearance is much greater than mine. He is so patient with me. I mess up over and over again. I play hostess to spiritual pride, self-pity and bitterness. I am prone to wander away from what I know is the truth. I am at times ungrateful and selfish. I am worthy of nothing that I have.

Still, He is patient with me when I complain to Him. He gently reveals to me my misguided behavior and persistently shows me the correction I need.

I really want to be the kind of mother to my kids that my Father is to me!! I'm a work in progress, I know, and I'm glad that He sees me through the blood of His Son.

When I think of the love I have for my kids, even when their behavior is at its worst, I know that I'm just starting to scratch the surface of the love that my Father has for me.

Psalm 103:8-9, 13-14

The Lord is compassionate and gracious,

Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness

He will not always strive with us

Nor will He keep His anger forever.

Just as a father has compassion on his children

So the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him

For He Himself knows our frame

He is mindful that we are but dust.

Thank You, Lord.

Fruit of the Day--Joy

2009-11-18T11:29:00.004-05:00

Joy.

This picture brings me joy.

Being with my family brings me joy.

My friends bring me joy.

My husband brings me joy.

The fact that Jacob has gone three days with no "accidents" brings me joy.

I felt joy when Ashlyn encouraged me to do my morning Bible study again today.

I felt joy when she wanted to sit next to me with her Bible too!

I felt joy when Emily told me she wanted to be a rock star who worships God. :)

But, if all of those things were taken away, would I still have joy? I believe that many times we confuse true joy with mere happiness. So, what is the difference?

Happiness exists when something good happens, or when life is going well. When a person has true joy, it exists even when things are not always good. There is only one place from where true joy comes, and that is from the Giver of all good things: God.

When I realize that He is my true source of joy, I can feel it even when things aren't going all that great. I sometimes have to intentionally plug into that resource, lest I become overwhelmed by the uncertainty of my circumstances, but His abundant flow is available to me at all times. The enemy would like nothing better than to steal away our joy, especially during times when we are vulnerable, like when we are going through a difficult time. But God's Word is full of promises, including several on joy.

Jesus said in John 16:22, "So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." We can believe that when we find our joy in a relationship with Him, our suffering on this earth will one day be turned to everlasting joy.

Real joy is deeper than happiness. Happiness can fade, but true joy will last. And when we walk in the Spirit instead of our flesh, divine joy will be evident in our lives and others will hopefully be drawn to Jesus as a result.

I dare say that everyone experiences happiness to some degree, but only those who know the hope of Christ ever experience true joy.

Thank You Veterans!

2009-11-10T21:09:00.003-05:00

In honor of Veteran's Day, the kids sang this song at a senior adult luncheon. I just couldn't resist sharing it!!

The girls were very nervous, but I was proud of them for getting up there! Make sure to notice how Jake NEVER misses the word "up" in the chorus.

To all of the veterans out there...thank you!!!!!!

Hope you enjoy the video...

Fruit of the Day--Love

2009-11-09T15:17:00.004-05:00

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness

goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control;

against such things there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23

We have a thing at our house called the Fruit of the Day, and it has nothing to do with apples and bananas.

A couple of years ago I started this with the kids in an attempt to teach them about the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5. It caught on very well, and the kids really enjoy it. For instance, if the fruit of the day is love, then we try to be aware all day of showing love to one another. The next day the fruit of the day would be joy, and we try to think of ways that we can bring joy or feel joy even in difficult circumstances. It's a great way to become aware of what it means to let God's Spirit rule our lives. Over the past few months we have gotten away from doing this every day, but lately it has resurfaced and I have started to be intentional with it again.

So, as I was thinking about it, I thought I might do a few posts on the passage in Galatians 5, starting, of course, with love!

So, what does it mean to love others God's way? If you're like me, then sometimes you choose to conveniently ignore some of the most basic Biblical principles about love. Here's an example: say you have been hurt by someone and have a legitimate right to be angry. It's easy enough for you to just forget about trying to mend the relationship, and you may feel like that's okay because you have been wounded and have a right to hold a grudge. You are the victim, right?

But consider Jesus' words, found in Luke 6:32: "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them." And verse 35, "But love your enemies, and do good...and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men." Loving in God's way means loving even those who have shown no love to us. It means loving, even when there is no return.

Paul wrote in Romans 12:9 to "Let love be without hypocrisy." That means that we must love for the right reasons, not for self-centered reasons. The only way that we can accomplish this is by daily denying ourselves and LOVING the Lord with all our hearts, souls, minds and strength, because when we truly do that, then we relinquish our RIGHTS to His power, and then He enables us to love even those who seem unlovable to us. Make sense?

We also need not forget that Jesus said to not only love Him wholeheartedly, but to love others as we love ourselves. He didn't suggest this as a way to live, He hailed it as the greatest of all commandments. We must love the way He wants us to love, and that includes the ultimate display of love--forgiveness.

I really struggle with this in a couple of areas of my life. It's extremely difficult sometimes to show love in the way God commands. But, if I truly want to live by the Spirit (and not my flesh), I have to learn to give up my "rights" and love Him with my whole being. I trust Him enough to know that when I do that, His love will infiltrate my life and spill over to others as well. It is not easy to let go, is it? But I have found that taking it one choice at a time, and praying for His strength seems to make it much less daunting.

Never forget that when we choose to follow His ways, He promises to hold our hand and give us the strength we need. The next time you are faced with a choice to either harbor a grudge or let go and love, choose the way that He commands. You will find freedom, release, and your life will beautifully exhibit the fruit of living by God's Spirit.

A "Public" Thank You

2009-11-05T21:50:00.005-05:00

Disclaimer: I normally would never ever ever ever choose to post a picture of myself in a hospital gown more than once, except this was the only picture that I had of myself with Dad and Evan. :)

I am finally feeling well after a very rough week of "healing". To make a long story very short, I now know that I am severely allergic to a particular adhesive which was used on me before I left the hospital. In short, it was pretty miserable for several days there, but I am much better now. I feel like I'm sort of getting back into life again, which basically means that I am able to move around and do such glamorous tasks such as go to Wal-Mart, wash dishes, teach school and clean house. It's ironic to me that doing those things now actually makes me feel better. I guess I thrive on some sort of normalcy (whatever that is for me now). :)

However, as difficult as those few days were, it would have been a lot harder if it hadn't been for the great help that I had.

Of course, Jason is always a wonderful help and very supportive.

And we are so thankful for the wonderful meals that have been prepared for us by several friends and family members.

But, I wanted to "publicly" thank my Mom and Dad for all they have done for me over the last two or three weeks. From watching the kids while we were at the hospital, to cleaning my house while I sat and held my newborn, my parents have been invaluable to me. Jake has bonded with Poppy (my dad), while Mom has driven me to my unplanned doctor's appointments and spent many hours at my house folding my laundry, washing my dishes and taking care of my other three kids while Jason was working. This allowed me to rest and heal and spend time with Evan, knowing that we were all in good hands.

Several mornings, Mom came down to the house very early to fix breakfast for the family, just so I could sleep. And all of this is on top of the already great things they have done for me in the past, like teaching me the value of loving and living for Christ, just to name one.

When I thanked my Mom the other day for all the support and help, she replied to me, "That's what parents do, Amy. They take care of their children."

I would only add one word to that statement: that's what good parents do.

I thank God for my very good parents.

And to you, Mom and Dad, I also say "thanks"-- for what you do for me and my family, and for teaching me how to be a good parent. I love you!

We're Gonna Keep Him

2009-10-28T20:03:00.005-04:00

This was the scene this morning in our room. No, it isn't like this every night. Most of the time it's either no kids or one kid who ends up snoozing between us. But lately, everyone wants to be where Evan is--and for now that is in our room.

He is a popular little fellow, that Evan. At the hospital, Jake didn't care about having anything to do with him. But since we've been home, he has tenderly shown his love by taking time out from playing to come and stroke him on the head or give him a little kiss. He even asks to hold him now! I love to ask Jake what the baby's name is, because he can never remember. He always gets this thoughtful look on his face as he works hard to come up with the right name. I always have to then say, "Eh..." and then he shouts, "Evan!!" But, of course, as is obvious from the picture, he has much love for his little brother.

The girls love taking turns holding him, and Emily was singing him to sleep the other night. They are such big helpers, fetching diapers, holding him and being loving to him. I'm so thankful that everyone is taking to him so well.

As for me, I literally have my hands full, because when I have a newborn, I hold them all the time. Well, obviously, I let my family hold him some, and occasionally I'll put him down to accomplish such tasks as showering or brushing my teeth. :) So, I guess it's not all the time, but they are like this for such little time that I want to relish every moment and hold him in my arms before he gets big enough to start squirming around.

Some people believe that this can spoil a baby, making him want to be held all the time. My belief is that a newborn cannot be spoiled (and that has been my experience), for they grow so quickly and the time passes so fast.

So, the Liddles are doing well, enjoying the first days of the Evan's life, and taking in God's blessings. Now, I gotta go get Evan...he's been in the swing long enough. :)

True Love

2009-10-24T17:46:00.006-04:00

“To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket- safe, dark, motionless, airless--it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable.”

~C. S. Lewis

I could have decided that my heart was too valuable. That it wasn't worth the risk. But because I didn't make that choice, my heart is wide open. Wide open for pain. Wide open to yearn. Wide open to be broken.

But more than that....

it's wide open for joy. Wide open for happiness. Wide open to love and be loved.

It's sometimes a scary thing to look at my children, or to watch my newborn, so helpless and dependent, and realize the depth of love that I have in my heart. It's scary because I know that it makes me vulnerable to the worst kind of pain. To love, is indeed, to give your heart away. But the joy in the journey far outweighs the pain of a loveless life.

To be in a place of feeling and vulnerablility is far better than the callous, cold "safety" of a guarded heart that refuses to love.

Welcome Little Evan!

2009-10-19T19:59:00.009-04:00

Mimi and Evan

Jake was more interested in his new helicopter I think!!

I don't deserve this. I really don't. As my doctor was stitching me up today, I couldn't help but ponder the blessings of the Lord upon my life, and I was overwhelmed with the sense of His love and goodness, especially knowing how faithless I am sometimes.

Oh, did I mention we have a BOY?????!!!!! We have never found out the gender of our babies ahead of time, and usually we have a pretty even number of girl/boy guesses. But this time, I don't think that even one person guessed a girl! Everyone was right!

The surgery went so well. I'm sorry if this is too much information for some of you, but I'm going to share it anyway, because it is a testimony of God's protection over us! When my doctor made the first incision, she called Jason around so he could see what she was seeing. My uterus was so thin that the baby's hand could been seen through it. Amazing! That's why she had recommended an early delivery, and I know that God was in it. The umbilical cord was wrapped twice around his neck, which, obviously, can cause major problems. But not today. Praise the Lord!!

In addition, I think that this is the best I've ever felt after any surgery. I'm humbled and amazed, and that doesn't even begin to describe my feelings as I look at my newborn child.

Evan Michael Liddle is clearly one of the most beautiful babies in the world. No, I am not biased in the least. He really is. He is perfect in every way.

I keep asking myself, "What have I done to deserve this?" And I know in my heart that the answer is...absolutely nothing. I accept it as a blessing from God, and I can only say that I am so thankful. Words cannot describe.

Also, to the many of you who prayed for us and sent words of encouragement, you will never know what it meant to me as I was facing this day. Thank you!

It's hard to put into words all that I am feeling, so I will end with this verse today...

Every good thing given and every perfect gift

is from above, coming down from the Father of lights

with who there is no variation or shifting shadow.

James 1:17

The Real Peace of Mind

2009-10-15T20:07:00.000-04:00

Okay, so this was a picture of me yesterday morning, before we headed to the hospital.

I was really dreading the amniocentesis, but as it turned out, it was no big deal! It really felt no different than when I've had my blood drawn. I did have some pain afterward, but that has since subsided.

We had to wait four hours for the results of the fetal lung maturity test...it seemed like an eternity! And then, when it came back that the lungs were too immature for delivery, my initial disappointment was almost overwhelming. However, it didn't take me long to get over it and be thankful that our baby appears to be healthy and is scheduled for delivery Monday at noon.

Something the Lord has shown me through this, though, is how much I need Him and how little I trust Him sometimes. The night before last, I worried a lot. My thoughts were nearly out of control. Fears about the amnio, the surgery, the safety of my other three children, the baby's health....I could go on. I know. It sounds ridiculous. I was subjecting myself to a sort of mental torture, brought on by entertaining (instead of dismissing) thoughts of fear and anxiety. It nearly paralyzed me.

Isn't it amazing how easily we trust our own fears instead of the One who promises to cast them out with His love?

It reminds me of Peter, walking toward Jesus on the water, when all of a sudden he realized that he was....walking on the water! It's easy to encourage others and give advice, but when it comes to living it out, it is a difficult task. I found myself praying Philippians 4:6-7 about every 15 minutes. I quoted it in my last post, but I love the translation of verse 7 in my daughter's Bible. It says, "And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Peace which surpasses every thought....will guard my mind.

Oh, how I need His peace to guard my mind! I can't explain to you how much this Scripture has ministered to me over the last few days. I see my constant need to give everything to Him, including (and sometimes especially) my mind. Worry is so horrible, because while He promises strength during trials, He simply commands us not to worry. But even when my faith lacks so much, my loving God is willing to give me peace. He is willing, in spite of my weakness, to calm my spirit and remind me of His perfect love, which really does cast out fear.

Perfect Peace

2009-10-12T06:13:00.004-04:00

Last week was a crazy busy week at our house. I spent lots of time getting out baby supplies and cleaning and organizing in preparation for the new arrival. Toward the end of the week, we had a visit from Ann, my good friend whom I hadn't seen in years! We had a great time catching up and reminiscing about old times. Then, over the weekend, we went on a camping trip (within an hour of the hospital of course!), and had a lot of fun, even though it was rainy the first night and really cold the second night. We had a heater and lots of blankets though, so we were toasty warm during the night.

I didn't have a picture of us camping, so I posted one of Jake as he helped clean the van after we got home, since he had kind of a hard time on our trip. Yesterday, after he'd spilled hot chocolate on his face (thankfully it was more on the warm side), he fell from the top of a six foot slide onto the ground. His fall was head first, but he landed on his back. It scared him, but he wasn't hurt a bit. We thanked his good friend Jesus for watching over him and protecting him, since a fall like that could have been a lot worse!! (By the way, that spot on his forehead is not a bruise, it's chocolate ice cream.)

Now, though, we are home, unpacked and looking forward to another busy week. The big delivery is scheduled for Wednesday, and while I am very excited, I also have a bit of anxiety. It's nothing crippling, just thoughts about how everything will go, and worries about things that could go wrong. Sometimes my mind is my worst enemy!!

But contrary to the way I used to be, I'm usually not that much of a worrier. There are just so many unknowns to me this time, and I have found myself becoming more and more anxious. So this morning, I laid it all out before the Father. I was comforted, first of all, by Romans 8:39, that there is nothing that can separate me from the love of my Father. It helped me to remember that even through all of my fears and worries, He loves me so much, and nothing can change that.

I also found comfort in the fact that He is so faithful, even when I am lacking faith, or at least having a hard time trusting. I know that He is trustworthy, and that no matter what happens in my life, He is totally in control. I find such great strength in being able to believe that promise without a doubt, keeping in mind the truth of Isaiah 26:3, "The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You." God really does bring such peace when I lay my anxieties before Him, and I thank Him for promises such as these.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything

by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving

let your requests be made know to God.

And the peace of God,

which surpasses all comprehension,

will guard your hearts and your minds

in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7

Creative!

2009-10-06T22:52:00.005-04:00

I had to have a talk with my girls today,

after which Emily started to tear up a little.

This was the exchange that took place next:

Ashlyn: Emily, are you crying?

Emily: No, my eyes are sweating!

The Desert

2009-10-05T21:10:00.006-04:00

Have you ever felt like the Lord was being silent?

Every day (well, MOST every day), I get up, open the Word and pray for God to reveal His truth. There have been days when I felt like I was going to burst. God has taught me some wonderful things during our time together. But lately, I get up, open the Word, pray for God's truth to be revealed, and yet He seems so...silent.

It's not really that I'm not learning anything, it just seems that I'm not hearing things like I want to. I haven't had one of those "WOW!" moments lately. It's almost like I'm in a desert, which seems extraordinarily dry when you've been through the rivers too.

But, to use the title of an old Margaret Becker song, I can truly say "The Hunger Stays".

No matter what kind of phase I seem to be in, there is always a hunger for the truth. I know that God is there, even when I can't necessarily feel Him. Sometimes I wonder why God allows these times. Why does He make Himself obvious at times, and then at others He just seems so far away?

I have to believe that it's for our own good. It's like a type of workout for our faith in Him, because if it were all easy, all the time, then how would our faith grow?

Trials don't always come in the form of pain and suffering. A trial can actually be like an examination--an assessment. So when God seems "silent", He really isn't. He is just as present as always, doing what is best for us by helping us build our belief and faith in Him.

During these times, it can, at times, be harder to stay awake while reading in the mornings. And it's sometimes more difficult to be motivated to get up early (unless you are nine months pregnant and you wake up a lot anyway...hee hee). But I know that He is there. I know that my time spent alone with God is invaluable. I know that there will be more rivers. And I know that He is there, even in the desert.

Scary Stuff

2009-10-01T18:55:00.004-04:00

Not too long ago, I was upstairs having school with the girls, when I heard Jacob, who was playing downstairs, scream a most horrible scream.

It was the kind of scream that prompted me to run straight to him because I recognized the fear in his voice.

I got to the top of the steps and could see him standing near the front door, his blanket up to his face, frozen with fear. Amidst the crying, he kept saying, "That 'care me! That 'care me!" I couldn't imagine what he'd seen!

I was a little nervous, because I thought that maybe he'd seen someone out the front door or something like that. I picked him up and tried to comfort him, cautiously peeking out the front door. Then he pointed to the window in the next room. I said, "Jacob, what scared you?"

He pointed out the window to my flower pot on the porch and said, "That!"

Pretty scary, huh? He still talks about it now, though he isn't afraid anymore. I think I'll just leave it there as a Halloween decoration, right next to the Jack-o-Lanterns.

Wide-Eyed

2009-09-30T05:28:00.006-04:00

I'm convinced that it's God's way of preparing me for all the sleep I'm not going to be getting for the next few weeks (or months).

It seems that towards the end of all my pregnancies, I wake up around 3-4:00 am--WIDE awake. I typically get up early, but most of the time it isn't until around 5:30 or 6:00, since, in our household, no one usually rouses until 7:30-ish (for now).

However, I try to look at the bright side and realize that I'm getting at least 2 or 3 hours of uninterrupted time! I do take advantage of this, because even though I'm not getting much sleep, at least now I can decide what to do with my extra time in the mornings. When the little one comes, that will pretty much be decided for me!

Speaking of the little one, if all goes as planned, he or she will be here two weeks from today!!! The girls have made a pink and blue paper chain in their room and tear off a piece each night. Jacob has a fascination with peeking at my "big bewee" (belly), and Emily goes to the "hospital" to have a child nearly every day. We are all excited!

Wow, God is so gracious and I'm thankful for His blessings. These quiet moments are precious to me amidst the constant flurry of activity that comes with having small children at home. God is faithful to fill my soul and give me encouragement to face the day. And even though I have (and will have) many extra-tired moments throughout the day, He always gives strength and stamina when I need it most.

I hope you find encouragement in this Psalm today as I have:

I will bless the LORD at all times;

His praise shall continually be in my mouth

My soul will make its boast in the LORD;

The humble will hear it and rejoice.

O magnify the LORD with me,

And let us exalt His name together.

I sought the LORD, and He answered me,

And delivered me from all my fears.

They looked to Him and were radiant,

And their faces will never be ashamed.

This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him

And saved him out of all his troubles.

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him,

And rescues them.

O taste and see that the LORD is good;

How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!

Psalm 34:1-8

Twelve Years and Counting!!

2009-09-27T22:07:00.003-04:00

Twelve years ago on this day I made a promise that would change my life.

I promised to stay committed. I promised to love. I promised to forgive.

Twelve years ago on this day I married Jason!

You know, in some ways it seems like just yesterday, but it's so natural, and so much has happened in our lives, that sometimes it seems like a long time. I am SO thankful to have a husband who not only loves me, but also loves God and loves our children. Jason is such a great dad; I love watching him with the kids, and obviously they adore him.

I think marriage is one of many ways that God chooses to form our character. I know that Jason and I both have grown so much, in so many ways. When you're married, you learn about selflessness. You learn about forgiveness. You learn about respect. It teaches you to be vulnerable.

Of course, anybody can choose to NOT learn about any of these things. I mean, technically, a person can be married yet choose to live the way they want. But God calls us to something greater--and the rewards He promises are unimaginable!

I would be the first person to tell you that it's hard (well, Jason might beat me to it), and that our marriage isn't perfect. But, we both know that God blesses when we obey Him by keeping our commitment to each other. We trust that He will keep HIS promise to reward obedience.

I could go on and on about this, because I know that the enemy has a great desire to destroy one of the greatest institutions that God created: marriage/family. It helps us to remember that truth when we feel like giving up. It helps when we remember that it actually isn't the two of us against each other, but in fact, it's two of us plus One against a very vicious enemy. When we remember that truth, then we are better able to combat the lies in a way that actually produces more strength for our marriage.

I don't have it all figured out. But I know that I am grateful for my marriage, for my husband, and for the patience that God demonstrates to both of us time and time again. The more we depend upon Him, the more love He gives us for each other.

I hope that this Scripture will encourage you as much as it has Jason and me in the journey of marriage:

Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able

to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,

but against the powers,

against the world forces of this darkness,

against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Ephesians 6:11-12

I LOVE being married, but I'm so thankful that God doesn't leave us to go at it alone! We acknowledge our need for Him and pray that He will continue to bless!

I'm Jacob!

2009-09-24T21:42:00.006-04:00

My son, Jacob, seems to really know who he is (yeah, I know he's only two). After playing with him, I might say to him, "Jake, you are so funny!" His immediate response is usually, "No! I'm Jacob!"

He might come into the room with a dirty diaper, about which I might comment, "Jake! You are stinky!" He assuredly replies, "No, I'm Jacob!"

Sometimes I might be cuddling with him, and feeling overwhelmed by his big brown eyes and blond curly hair, I might declare, "Jacob, you are so cute!" And again, "No, I'm Jacob!"

Hmmmm....could he be on to something?

It sort of reminds me of one my favorite children's books by Max Lucado, You Are Special. Have you ever read that one? I love reading it to the kids because it's always such a great reminder for me too. In it, the little wooden characters can't seem to escape the words (negative or positive) of their peers. The main character soon learns that nothing will "stick" if every day he visits with the carpenter who designed him. He realizes that it is only his opinion that matters.

You see, it's not just the negative comments from others that can do damage. Sometimes the positive ones can be just as harmful, if not more, because then we start to rely on them and perhaps think more highly of ourselves than we ought. Before we know it, our whole identity is founded upon the "insight" of others into our lives. We have suddenly forgotten that there is only One whose opinion of us matters.

Maybe at one time we were like little Jacob (who is inadvertently confident in who he is), but somewhere along the way, we learned to let others determine who we are or who we become. I'm constantly learning that while there are times when others' input is valuable, I must ultimately take those things that I hear--good and bad--to my Father, who always has my best interest at heart. If what I'm hearing doesn't match up with what He believes about me, then I should discard it. God doesn't want me to think less or more of myself than what He intended. He wants me to place my character, my self-worth, my everything in HIM.

Our identity must be in Christ alone, because when it comes to who we are, He is the only One who matters.

What I Need the Most

2009-09-23T07:09:00.003-04:00

Life. How anyone thinks they can manage it on their own is beyond me. I am desperate for a daily dose (or more) of direction and wisdom from the One who created me, knows me and has a plan for me.

That's why I love the promise in James 1:5, "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him."

I need the wisdom of God in my daily pursuit of being a wife and mom, in my efforts to understand the teachings of His Word and in every other aspect of my life. I long for God's perspective to overshadow my own ambitions and viewpoints.

I have prayed for wisdom for a long time, and I have claimed the promise that God will give generously. But I also wanted to pray for wisdom for my family; my children, my husband, my loved ones. However, I wasn't sure if that verse meant that people must be responsible for asking for wisdom on their own, or if others could intercede in that way for them.

I know that must seem so trivial, but it was just a question I have carried in my mind for a while.

Then I started a study of the wonderful book of Ephesians, and I discovered that Paul prayed for spiritual wisdom for the people of the church at Ephesus. Because I believe in the power of scriptural prayer (and I didn't think Paul would mind), I felt compelled to adopt this prayer from Ephesians 1 as a prayer for my own family. It goes something like this (the blanks are whomever I am praying for):

Father,

I give thanks for ________, and I pray that You, the Father of glory,

would give to _________ a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the

knowledge of Yourself. I pray that the eyes of _________ heart

would be enlightened, so that ___________will know what is the

hope of Your calling, what are the riches of the glory of Your

inheritance, and what is the surpassing greatness of Your

power toward us who believe.

I then continue the prayer myself, praying that God would turn their hearts (and mine) towards Him, because it is only God who can do a work in a person's life.

I write this today to encourage you to do the same for yourself, or for your children or loved ones. It is a gift that is lasting and that is honored by God.

I can't imagine what my life would be without the direction and wisdom of God, and without people interceding for me. I want to do the same for those that I love, because I know that He is more than able (through the same power that raised Christ from the dead--Eph. 1:19-20) to give us strength, wisdom, spiritual understanding and so much more when we simply ask Him for it.

Emily and Ariel

2009-09-20T12:36:00.003-04:00

This was the moment Emily had been waiting for.

Last time we were at Disneyworld, we had waited in line to meet Ariel for probably 30 minutes when a monsoon hit and we had to abandon the line to try to find shelter. Plus, we were there in July (terribly crowded), and even though we had waited for 30 minutes, it was clearly going to be at least another 30 minutes or more before we'd get to meet her.

Sound silly? It was. But knowing how much Emily loved Ariel was what prompted us to make the decision to wait. And then we never got to see her.

Thank goodness the September crowds are not nearly as bad as July. This year, as Jason, Mom and Dad took Jake and Ashlyn to several other rides, little Miss Emily and I waited a mere 25 minutes to meet her favorite character! When asked about her favorite part of the whole trip, she has repeatedly replied "Meeting Ariel!"

So, in honor of this event, I have decided to post something I wrote last year about Emily and her favorite princess. This was written July 9, 2008:

Yesterday at lunch as I was sitting across from my Emily, I looked up to find her combing her hair with her fork. If you've never seen "The Little Mermaid", then you wouldn't know that she was mimicking Ariel, the red-headed, sea-dwelling star of the movie and sweet Emily's favorite princess.

I don't know exactly how many times I have heard the phrase, "Mommy, I'm a princess named Ariel....", but I know that it is at least once a day, and usually more. After her declaration, she then proceeds to tell an animated story, completely made up (and usually really lengthy) about how maybe she went to Wal-Mart or went to visit her friend Belle.

She also likes to use her character as an opportunity to refer to me by my first name. "Hi, Amy", she'll say, "I'm a princess named Ariel". And then she continues to her story, and sometimes will go ahead and burst into a very loud and full-of-vibrato song.

I know that these are precious days, and there is nothing in this whole wide world that I would trade for my little princess. I love the way she twirls her hair, I love the way she wears her "high" heels, I love the way she names every living thing "Sparkles", I love that she only wants to wear dresses (and has about a 4 or 5 dress rotation). I love to paint her nails pink, I love listening to her stories, and of course I LOVE hearing her little voice singing at the top of her lungs. She is our princess right now, and I will cherish every twinkle in her little eyes. And the best part about it is that I can truthfully tell her how she can be a real princess--a daughter of the King of Kings.

A Day at Sea World

2009-09-16T20:45:00.003-04:00

Today we had a great time at Sea World! It was very hot, but at least it wasn't raining! As soon as we got back to the condo, I made dinner and put the kids to bed at 8:00. It's thirty minutes later and they are all sound asleep. That's a real blessing, since we have our last full day here tomorrow and it will be spent at the Magic Kingdom! Hopefully everyone will be rested and refreshed for a great day.

I have to share this funny thing about Jacob, though. This morning, on the way to Sea World, he was not happy for some reason. He wasn't crying or anything, but he kept saying he didn't want to go, but that he wanted to go home. So finally, Mom said, "Jake, we're going to Sea World. If you go home, who will stay with you?"

Without missing a beat, Jake confidently replied, "Jesus". How sweet!! Of course, some of you may remember reading a previous post I've written about Jake answering questions with "Jesus".

Along those same lines, when we were at the Playhouse Disney attraction (the show about Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, etc.), a man sitting next to us asked Jake, "Who is your favorite character?" Jake of course said--you guessed it--"Jesus!"

You may not think that's as funny as I do, but it cracks me up!

Anyway, we had a good day today, with the highlights being the dolphin show and the Shamu show. Incredible!

Good Times in Orlando

2009-09-15T07:17:00.009-04:00

We made it to Orlando! First of all, I want to thank those of you who prayed for Emily. She was very cooperative in our efforts Sunday morning to drink lots and lots of replenishing fluids. She was still very weak most of the day, but I could tell she was beginning to perk up that afternoon. By the time early evening rolled around, she was nearly back to being herself. That night, we were on our way to eat at the Rainforest Cafe, when Ashlyn made a comment about her being sick. Emily emphatically declared "I AM sick, but I FEEL good!" We knew then that she was on the way to being back to her normal, dramatic self! Praise the Lord!

Yesterday, we went to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

It was Jason’s birthday, so he got to wear a fantastic button around all day which warranted him free admission, as well as free desserts a couple of times! The highlight for Emily was the live “Ariel Show”, while Ashlyn and Jason liked the stunt shows. Mom and Dad were able to be participants in a "movie scene", where they got gallons and gallons of water dumped on them (they did have special suits on), and Jacob loved getting to see Handy Manny and the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse characters.

The highlight for me was....the American Idol Experience!

I couldn’t resist auditioning, and I made it on the show to sing “I Want You Back” by Michael Jackson. It was quite the experience indeed. I first had to audition for one person, then I made it to the “producer”. After he sent me on, I was told a specific time to come back to studio. When I got back, I met with a vocal coach for rehearsal, had my hair and make-up done (too bad they didn’t have a wardrobe department), and I got to do a sound check on the big stage, which was a replica of the real American Idol stage!

There are shows every hour during the day, and they select three contestants to be in each show, based on prior auditions. The three judges (who were remarkably like the three real judges), give feedback, and the audience (of about four or five hundred) votes the winner. I think they try to make it as authentic as possible!

"Randy" liked my performance and told me it was like "maternity ward gone wild"! HA! "Paula" liked it as well, and "Simon" said he liked the song choice but said (in a way that only "Simon" could say) that he thought I needed to add a lot more energy (I think it was something about trying to crank up an old car - WHAT? HA!) I didn’t win, but it was lots of fun getting to participate!

We are having a good time, still going to hit Sea World and Magic Kingdom this week. I’ll be updating!

Please Pray for Emily

2009-09-12T23:17:00.004-04:00

Tonight we are in Georgia, stopping over for the night on our way to Orlando!

We had a good day of travel, except for little Emily, who is not feeling well. It breaks my heart to think that we have had this trip planned for nearly a year, and the kids have counted down the days, and now Emily is sick!!!

So, I just wanted to ask you to please say a prayer for Emily. Honestly, I don't know exactly what's the matter with her, because her symptoms are a little strange. But please pray that whatever it is, that she would overcome it very soon, and that she would be cooperative in our efforts to keep her hydrated.

I'll be posting from Disneyworld soon!! Thanks everybody...

The Tale of the Deviled Eggs

2009-09-10T06:58:00.008-04:00

I detest deviled eggs. I've never liked deviled eggs, and I don't think I will ever like deviled eggs. To me, they are a repulsive fare that I don't ever care to even try (no offense to all of you who make deviled eggs...I'm sure they are delicious to the many people who seem to love them). BUT, it was because of some deviled eggs that I learned a valuable lesson.

One day when I was small, I was going to ride to church with my Grandma Lillian and Grandpa Dallas Jacobs. I guess we were having some sort of pot luck at church that night, because Grandma had made some...you guessed it...deviled eggs, and had set them in the floorboard of the back seat of her car. Before I got in the car, she kindly reminded to be careful not to smash the eggs in the floorboard. However, I, being very young (yeah, we'll blame it on that), stepped on the eggs anyway. They must have been covered with plastic wrap or something, because the eggs were pretty much ruined.

You can imagine the frustration that Grandma must have felt with me. But do you know what she did? She didn't yell. She didn't fuss. She didn't show any anger. She got out of the car, took the container of eggs and threw the whole thing up in the air while letting out a gleeful, "Wheeeeeeee!"

True story.

That's what I call making the best out of a "bad" situation. I need to remember that when I'm on the verge of losing my temper because Jacob won't stay in his room. I need to remember that on days when twice I open the refrigerator and an open glass of unfinished milk falls out onto the floor. I need to remember that when bedtime rolls around and I am tired, yet my kids seem to have gotten a fresh round of energy and run around like wild animals (literally--they pretend to be tigers) and I can't seem to get them settled down. I need to remember that when I am simply at my wit's end!

In short, I learned from that story, that yes, some things are worth getting angry over, but some of those things can be just as easily tossed aside...or up in the air!

Proverbs 19:11

A man's discretion makes him slow to anger,

and it is his glory to overlook a transgression.

He Sees

2009-09-09T04:46:00.007-04:00

One night, not too long ago, I was reading to the girls at bedtime about the vastness of God's creation. I really can't remember what we were reading, but it prompted lots of questions--many of which I couldn't answer--still, it was great to see their minds whirling around as they pondered how enormous the universe must be.

Finally, Ashlyn asked, "Mommy, if God is so big, and the universe is so huge, then how does He see us?" Another question that I couldn't answer very well, except to say that He promises that He does. She was fine with that.

A few days later, I was reading in Psalms, and I came across this scripture:

The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men

From His dwelling place He looks out

On all the inhabitants of the earth,

He who fashions the hearts of them all,

He who understands all their works.

(Psalm 33:13:15)

I couldn't wait to share that passage with Ashlyn, as a specific promise from the Lord that He sees us, He watches us, and He understands us because He created us. I thanked God for leading me to that Scripture!

I also loved how it says that He "fashioned us". He didn't randomly throw us together, but purposefully crafted us according to a unique design. How thrilled I was to be able to share that with my girls, for whom I pray every day will find their identity in Christ and not in superficial things of this world.

He sees us. He knows us. He loves us. And as huge as God is, He hasn't forgotten us. He has a plan for each of us, so we need not hesitate to trust Him.

Little Things

2009-09-07T22:03:00.004-04:00

Little things can make me so happy. Like watching my kids become ecstatic over a little thing. That makes me happy. And trust me, when I say "little thing", I do mean little. Literally.

Saturday morning, we all got up, ate pancakes and then went fishing.

Jason and I baited the hooks while the kids cast the lines and reeled them in. They would get a tug or a nibble every now and then, and the worms would get eaten, but they just couldn't seem to hook any fish! So we baited more, then they would cast and reel in...nothing.

Then we decided to move to a new spot, a sort of spillway on the other side of the dam. They started catching fish immediately! Tiny little fish--but you would have thought they were catching the largest fish in the world! And because the fish were so small, the girls could reel them in all by themselves, which made it even more exciting for them!

Yes, they were little fish, but that didn't matter to us. Those little fish made them happy (as is clearly demonstrated in the following photo--check out Emily's face), and that made me happy! Sometimes it's just the little things, huh?

Welcome All People

2009-09-06T15:30:00.005-04:00

Apparently my kids are really big into making our guests feel welcome.

Last night, we had some friends over for dinner. Before noon, Ashlyn had written (on the driveway with sidewalk chalk) a big welcome sign, directions to NOT go in through the garage, and arrows (on the sidewalk) leading to the front door. Once they made it to the front door, our guests were greeted with the following notes:

In case you can't see it well, the bottom sign says, "And you kids to". We actually all thought that was pretty funny. Okay, it was funny enough to me (I am her mother after all) that when it crossed my mind during church this morning (yes, it did) I almost laughed out loud!

But I love her hospitable mind! In fact, my desire is that our home would always be a place that is warm and welcoming to those that our sent our way. The Bible even speaks of this, when it says in Romans 12:13 to "practice hospitality".

Serving others.

Helping to meet the needs of fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.

Welcoming "all people", as Ashlyn put it, to partake in the blessings that God has given us. Of course, that is not to say that we should let anybody and everybody into our home at all times necessarily. But I believe that the Holy Spirit will guide us in the decisions we make concerning our interactions with friends and strangers, so we must be sensitive to that.

Most of all, beyond wanting my home to be warm and inviting, I want my heart to be warm and inviting to those around me who are in need or who can experience the love of Christ through me and through our family. It's basically just following Jesus' command to love others as we love ourselves. Please know that this is my desire...something that I pray for...because I am not completely there. It's easy to be almost totally wrapped up in my own needs that I am not always sensitive to the needs of others.

But that's my prayer; for my life to say "Welcome all people", so that they too can experience the power and joy of my God.

The Answer

2009-09-02T15:55:00.005-04:00

The question was simply, "Ashlyn, do remember what we studied last year about Roman Numerals?" Before she even had a chance to answer, Jacob piped up, "I know! Jesus!"

At dinnertime, Ashlyn was asking a question about writing a number in the thousands, and again, Jacob yelled at the top of his lungs, "I know, I know!!! How 'bout Jesus?!"

He has done this several times, answering random questions with "Jesus!" I honestly don't know where he has learned that, but we all think it's so funny!!! It's like he really thinks the answer to everything is "Jesus!"

Wait a minute, isn't that kind of true, in a sense? Okay, I'm not talking about the answer to math problems or things of that sort, but in a greater sense, having to do with life and problems and the journey that we are on. He really is the answer, isn't He?

When I feel overwhelmed, He is my refuge.

When I am afraid, He is my comfort.

When I am alone, He is my companion.

When I am tired, He is my rest.

When I am troubled, He is my peace.

When I was dead in my sin, He was my Savior.

And when I worry about the plight of this world, He reminds me that He is Sovereign Lord, and I have nothing to fear in Him.

What a peace to know that I have a relationship with the One who is truly the Answer for my every need. If Jesus is everything to me now, I can hardly imagine what it will be like when I get to behold Him with my eyes, face to face one day! But until then, I cling tight to His promises that are found in the truth of His Word and I am encouraged. I pray that you are too!

He [Jesus] is before all things,

and in Him all things hold together.

Colossians 1:17

A Little Catch-Up

2009-09-01T06:12:00.005-04:00

Hello! After spending lots of time this summer being outside in the wonderfully mild weather (and eating WAY too many s'mores), I am ready to re-enter the world of blogging. Not too much has changed for our family in the last few weeks, but I am definitely larger and gaining weight faster this days. In fact, d-day (delivery day) has been scheduled for October 14. If all goes as planned, we will be welcoming young baby Liddle into the world in just a few short weeks. I can hardly believe it!

Let's see, as far as an update on the kids, Ashlyn turned 8 years old this summer and is in the middle of soccer season right now. She is maturing quickly and I am enjoying sweet conversations with her. She decided to cut her own hair a few weeks ago after she ran into a pine limb and got a bunch of sap stuck in it (I think I cried). She has since told me, "Maybe God wants me to be a hair cutter, since I cut bangs for myself". I have my doubts, but I guess she's seeing the positive side! As you can see, she is still our animal lover!

Emily has turned into our resident cook, making a dish the other day which she entitled "The New Macaroni". It was a scrumptious soup made up of two chips, peas, a piece of cheese and a brownie. Fortunately, because it was pretend food, I could pretend to really like it. She cooks for us every day, and she loves pretending to be all grown-up!

And then there's Jacob, oh Jacob. He is "all-boy" as they say, and really I can't think of a better way to describe him. He also loves making us laugh and is actually a very funny kid. His favorite thing is to make really silly faces.

Ah, the summer has been good and the Lord has blessed me with a healthy pregnancy. I pray (and would appreciate your prayers), that God would bring this child into the world in a safe and healthy manner, and that He would grant us strength and patience as we begin this journey yet again. Summer is drawing to a close and we are approaching the commencement of a new earthly season as well as a new season in our lives. I thank Him for what He has done and look forward to what is to come!

I'll Be Back!

2009-07-11T15:34:00.002-04:00

Hello friends...

As you may have noticed, I have been on a blogging break. The life of summer activity and enjoyment has not hindered my inspiration for these writings necessarily, but it has hindered the time that I've actually spent writing (and being on the computer)!!!

I just wanted to "formally inform" you that I plan to resume regular upkeep of this site within a few weeks, so please don't completely forget about me! I say this to all of you who have been so encouraging and have politely expressed your appreciation for these things that I learn and love to share on a daily basis.

I hope that you are all having a great summer...I'll be back!

Amy

Whose Glory?

2009-06-30T22:02:00.005-04:00

Okay, I just can't resist. The big news last week was, of course, the untimely death of Michael Jackson, "King of Pop". I have to confess that I really, really like Michael Jackson, and I think his story and life are tragic.

Yes, I know about the child molestation charges. I know that personally, he was a strange man. But I also know that a man of his talent and artistry as a musician is rare, and for that, I really liked him.

As I pondered these things over the last few days, I asked myself, "What exactly is it that makes people like Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley and other celebrities turn to things such as bizarre behavior, drugs and isolation?" The tragic ending of so many of these talented lives brings about a conclusion that became obvious to me:

We were not made to be worshipped; but we were made TO worship...and to worship ONLY the one true GOD.

Human beings were not created with the ability to handle the pressure of being worshipped. Yet that is what happens with celebrities such as Michael Jackson. I'm not saying that he bears no responsibility, but isn't that something to think about? I tend to think that the only way a human can cope with fame is by then turning around and giving ALL glory to God the Father, accepting none of it for himself. Sadly, that rarely, if ever happens with our world's biggest stars. I guess if they did choose to do so, they wouldn't be the "superstars" that they are.

The thoughts I've had about this are actually kind of difficult for me to articulate, but they are thoughts that I felt were worth putting out there--for we also bear the responsibility to not "worship" people. Even people such as Bible teachers, theologians, and Christian musicians and authors. It's very easy for us to sometimes look at even our own church leaders and place them on a pedestal of sorts. That puts them in a very tempting position to take the glory for themselves. We are all responsible for laying all glory, not matter who it is aimed for, at the feet of our Father, for He is the ONLY one who deserves it and is able to handle it.

The Wow Factor

2009-06-25T22:29:00.006-04:00

This picture has nothing to do with this post, but I just love it and wanted to show it off again. :)

My seven year old "wowed" me a couple of times today.

First, I had a doctor's appointment today. I recruited my mom to accompany me (which is usually the case), because we like to do things together, and also because it is a GREAT help when I don't have to take the kids into the appointment with me. There is a lobby outside of the waiting room, where people are constantly shuffling in and out, waiting for valet parking, waiting for the elevator, getting a drink at the water fountain...you get the idea. Mom decided to watch the kids out in the lobby instead of the waiting room, because, well, it's naturally louder out there and the kids have a little more room to...um...I don't know...just do whatever they do while I'm with the doctor.

Anyway, when I was finished I came out into the lobby, but before I opened the door I could hear little voices...singing! When I stepped out, there were my two girls, standing as if on a stage, crayons for microphones, using the sheets they had colored as song sheets, singing "Awesome God" at the top of their lungs (well, nearly).

I would expect this out of Emily. But Ashlyn is usually very shy about these things when there are people around. But there they both were, like entertainers on the street, singing for all of the valet and elevator and water fountain people. Wow! I was quite amused!

The second thing that happened today was during the sudden storm that came upon us from the north. It came very quickly and was unusual since our weather usually comes from the west. Anyway, as leaves were blowing around outside and thunder was sounding, Ashlyn curiously asked me, "Mom, storms always pass by, don't they?" I replied, "Yes, they sure do." Then, ever so casually, she said, "Just like anger, huh?"

"What?"

Ashlyn responded, "It's just like anger. Sometimes you feel angry, but then it passes by and you aren't angry anymore."

I didn't know where that came from, but I was thrilled at her insight and took the opportunity to elaborate (ever so slightly of course): "That's right, Ashlyn. That's why when we're angry we should be careful not to say or do things that we will be sorry for later."

That was enough.

And I was wowed.