bible study with a chicken!

Posted on October 8, 2015 by Shanda

As soon as the children left for school yesterday, and I had a good start on the household chores, I looked outside and thought, “What a gorgeous fall morning.”

I decided to go out in it and sit with the hens to have my Bible study time. As soon as I opened my Bible, my favorite chicken hopped up on my knee to join me. You might notice that I thought it was October 6th at first. “This all seems familiar,” I thought, and then realized it was now the 7th. Already!

Hi Chicken!

I had a notebook with me and a pencil stuck in my ponytail. The pencil didn’t stay there long, because very soon there were good things to scribble down to save and think about. The air was fresh and cool, the sounds of contented hens charming.

I want and long to read the Bible every day. I have found that for me, the best way to do this is to use a “One Year Bible”. (click here to see the one I use) In this Bible, there is a reading for each day of the year. I’ve used it for several years now. There are times when I miss a few days, maybe even a week or more, but I have found that if I try to catch up I get overwhelmed. So, I always skip those days because very soon (next year) I WILL get to those verses again. There is a portion of Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs. Even though it is a structured, assigned portion of reading, there are ALWAYS words and truths that my heart and soul needed to hear again and again–never boring or dry. I usually keep paper nearby so that I can write down the verses that spoke to me that day. You see, the Bible is ALIVE for those who believe and love it. The words within it are useful in so many ways, and for Christians, it is like medicine for the soul. It’s like a food-craving you might get for, say, chocolate. You find yourself thinking about the Word during the day and wanting it. And when you get it, you are filled and satisfied.

Yesterday, I wrote these things down in my notebook (verses in quotes, my thoughts *not* in quotes)

~”An honest answer is like a kiss of friendship.”

Always be honest in your questions and answers. Don’t “play games”, don’t pretend. Be sincere. It’s a beautiful way to live–so beautiful that your honest, truthful ways are just like friendship’s kisses.

~”This is what the Lord says: Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken.”

~”Your real life is hidden with Christ in God.”

~”Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshipping the things of this world.”

Teach the children about greed.

Greed-intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food. A selfish and excessive desire for more of something than is needed.

~”Christ is all that matters and He lives in all of us.”
~”Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all richness, fill your lives.”

This is a wonderful set of verses to apply to my FAMILY.

~”Despite God’s wonders, they refused to trust Him.” —The next time you have some difficulty trusting God, think of as many of His wonders as you possibly can.

*****

I had no idea there was an app on my iPhone that shows all the steps I take in one day. I make sure I have it in my pocket now when I take my walks….it’s fun to see just how much I walk in a day as I go about my business. My mom does the same thing with her phone, and she is the one who taught me about the app. It came already installed on my phone and dummy me never knew it until last weekend.

I had it in my pocket when I went for a walk yesterday all alone because my children all go to school now (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

I find myself MAKING REMARKS TO MYSELF OUT LOUD. I really need to stop because it’s starting to happen at the grocery store, too.

The birds are quite active at this time of year. This morning when I let out the dog I saw a cardinal and a blue jay right outside my house in the bushes. They were busy eating berries in the early morning sunshine. A blue jay scolded me yesterday from the treetops and I got this fun picture of it stretching to reach some food.

The colors of autumn dazzle the eye.

Adorable mushroom. I want to draw it. I like to imagine them slowly growing up through the sweet smelling leaves and eventually poking their heads up to the day.

Dappled sunlight in the woods.

Hickory nuts are dropping off the trees and oh how I wish I could get to them!! I want to climb and gather! But the tree is so very tall. I have an old schoolbook primer that has a story in it about a nutting party. (this blog post is similar) The neighborhood people would go gather nuts together. Why did that stop happening?? My mom and her family used to get nuts in the fall on their farm land. I need to ask her to tell me the stories again. I know of two hickory trees nearby. One is by the stream and one is up the road just a little ways on the right and it’s nuts drop on the edge of the street.

I walked toward the stream…..a golfball caught my eye so I went to pick it up and saw this sight-

“What in the world are they doing?”, I asked myself (out loud) and when I realized what was happening, I blushed deeply and hid my eyes.

A worm saw them and wriggled away fast.

Or was it me he was squirming from? Regardless, I once again spoke out loud, “That was a BIG worm!” I said.

I think I miss my children. I’m not used to having no one near.

It didn’t help that there were signs of them down by the stream.

I also found a sock.

This is not the sky, but a reflection of it in a still pool of water in the stream.

*****

Well, eventually the children DID come back home. I went for another little walk with David and Sarah. We collected acorns and more hickory nuts (just a couple). I wanted them all (greedy again?) David told me that HE could climb the tree. Humph.

I did all the talking I wanted to without feeling weird.

Soon it was time for Caleb and Seth to go to football practice. Grace had a variety show at the High School so we made an outing of it. Ethan, David, and Sarah came along as I dropped off the boys at the field. We had extra time so Ethan suggested the coffee shop downtown. Sarah had an apple juice and a bag of chips that she didn’t like (they had pepper on them.) David had a diet soda, Ethan and I had coffee. Ethan snap-chatted his friend who is a girl. (um)

We looked out the window and saw that in the park across the street a band was setting up. The concert was to start in 15 minutes and we still had time so Sarah and I went over to enjoy some great jazz music…

Is this quaint or what?? I loved every moment…there were people all around us, and more gathered in as time went on. I would love to go again with Rich. People had their lawn chairs, picnic foods, sweaters and blankets to keep warm, and a musical spirit…toe tapping, a little dancing, smiles on the faces…it was great.

The boys played down by the water and railroad tracks and could still hear all the songs.

We may not have nutting parties but we do have outdoor concerts!

After a quick trip to the library we headed to the HS. Grace was in the color guard Flag routine (she’s on the far left on the floor). She’s been twirling the flag for just a few months and did very well. It was fun to see all the kids do their various routines…dance, music, and what have you. Sarah ate two chocolate candy bars while she watched and we didn’t get home until 9:00pm.

It was a wonderful night being filled up with my children again after a lonesome-like afternoon.

Tonight Rich comes home. He’s been gone since Monday. It’s a long weekend for the kids–no school tomorrow or Monday!

in the meantime….

Posted on October 5, 2015 by Shanda

Isn’t the news depressing? It makes me long for Jesus and Home. I know the end of my story and it’s worth living in this wretched world for…..as a person who determines to look for beauty, it hurts to write “wretched” but what other word is there when you hear of all the terrible things happening in our country and around the world?

In the meantime, I’m determined to live my own ordinary, quiet, blessed life to the FULLEST. I’m going to say yes as much as possible, go to bed early and SLEEP the glorious sleep, read the books, dress the children, cook the food, laugh the laughs, light the candles, take pictures of the sunrise, help as many people as I can, smile the smiles, say NO to anything or anyone that drains the energy from me that I need for my family, hug the hugs, pet the cats, make the sacrifices……you get the idea. All the things that I like, that I need to do and want to do. I’m so thankful that I have the power and determination to live the life I want to live, regardless of outside circumstances. We all have that freedom to some extent.

I truly think it pleases and glorifies God when we know who we are and live the way He made us to live, according to each unique person’s story and personality. Praising, dancing, and yes, even mourning and crying in those times, too. Feeling all the emotions He made us to feel. Do you like to cook? Then COOK with abandon. Do you like nature? Then get outside! Do you like people? Then get out there BE WITH THEM. Do you like solitude? Then stay home and LET THE WONDERFUL PEOPLE COME TO YOU. Everyone is different and everyone has value. There is no shame.

My mom said this weekend, “I LOVE MY LIFE.” She read a story about a woman in her 90’s who still walks to work every day. She wants to be like that woman. Relishing her life and her work and never wanting it to end……..to keep going.

Ethan, Mitch, and Jacob went to the homecoming football game, and so did Caleb, who wanted to go so very much that the boys took him along.

The dog was at their feet in the photo….Parker the dog loves his boys. In his eyes, they can do no wrong and totally deserve 115% loyalty and love.

He’s RIGHT!

Grace was invited to the homecoming dance….and after I asked the brothers if he was a nice boy I said….”If you want to go, then I want you to go. Experience High School…all of it…and enjoy it!” And she was happy to say “yes” and go dress shopping.

We had a hallelujah fit in the mall when we got the text telling us the parade was cancelled that morning…..because we needed more time. This girl hardly has any free time and we shopped for her dress the morning of the dance!!!! It had to be purple, too. Thankfully, we had success at Macy’s. The dress fit her like it was made for her. Which is was. 🙂

We went from shopping to lunch with Grandma, Grandpa, and Abbie.

cousins!

Then we walked to the bookstore.

My dad with Caleb. And a lego mini figure that I bought for my boy.

My mom who loves life even though it’s very hard at times!

I fixed her hair, painted her nails, bought her dress, shoes, and necklace, let her borrow my earrings and dress coat (not pictured) and I was happy to do it all for my girl. It was exhausting, in a good way. That feeling when a plan comes together.

Aren’t they sharp? They had made a plan to dress alike, and they had success! Grace told me the next morning that she had a lot more fun than she thought she would. (She was a little nervous).

I wish I had a better photo of Jacob and Emily but I was so focused on Grace and these two LEFT the house in Jacob’s car before I could even think of getting a picture of them. Rich and I drove Grace and her date to the school and happened to see Jacob and Emily walking on the sidewalk. I took the picture out the truck window. It was freezing cold (in the 40s) so poor Emily was suffering. Jacob didn’t ask to be taken shopping….he simply raided his Dad’s closet.

Oh and in case you’re wondering…Ethan and his girlfriend didn’t go to the dance. They stayed at her house with her family and watched four Harry Potter movies.

The purpose of this photo is to show you my morning glories. They have vigorously produced more vine and leaf than flower. I’m enjoying each remaining day with them because when we have frost they will die. I loved watching them grow all summer long, waiting and waiting for the flowers to appear.

Yesterday evening we cleaned the chicken coop and put fresh new wood shavings down.

We found our first white egg ever!!

Rich took a couple pictures with me in them. And that’s Caleb helping, too.

Wooly Aphids are AMAZING gray bugs that have white wispy stuff (called honeydew) coming out of them. Blogged about last year.

I was standing on the side of the road on Sunday when I took this picture. ^^ This morning I heard the dog barking and looked outside to see a car parked and running in the same spot. I put on my boots to run down and see if they were okay. And GUESS WHAT? This is so exiting. It was a lady trying to take pictures (with a Cannon SLR) of an Osprey sitting in our dead tree!!!!! (the dead tree pictured above). She and I visited on the side of the road, talking of nature and photography, and became friends this morning at 8am!!!!!!!!!!! That’s a God-moment for sure!

This morning’s sunrise. Sarah said, “Mom, come look at the sky!”

Happy is the Mom whose children show her sunrises.

Please please pray that Sarah’s UTI has cleared up. I have to take her tomorrow at 8:45 for a re-check. She’s certainly acting better, and had a great time eating chocolate covered strawberries yesterday after church.

Happy Monday, friends!

“And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow Him. Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6, 7 (I read this verse this morning and absolutely LOVED it. Amen!)

thirteen

Posted on September 27, 2015 by Shanda

Isn’t it beautiful to celebrate every child, each special, unique life?

To give birth to a son and watch him grow each and every day.

How thankful I am to have my son David in my life. Thirteen years ago, on an early fall, sunshiny day, he was born.

I experienced the miracle of new life…my third baby boy. I savored every minute of those baby days.

This morning I woke up at 7:30 and there was already a party going on. Dave had a friend spend the night and they were chasing each other around the house with toy weapons.

After church we had a big cheese pizza, a salad made with radishes, tomatoes, mushrooms, and Italian dressing, and fried chicken. He played the piano while we cleared the table and turned on the Sunday afternoon football game.

The many sounds of “home”.

Isn’t it a marvel how God makes a family? To put a husband and wife together, giving them children to raise? Each life has a purpose, each life is a gift.

Thirteen is the age of rapid growing, the beginnings of manhood. Long legs and arms, his voice cracking and deepening. But still so much the child remains.

Some of David’s quotable quotes:

“I really don’t like j’s. Why can’t they all just be g’s?”

***

“is it Monet or Monae?”

“It’s Monet.”

“YES!! I love silent t’s.”

***

“I feel like I just had a genius idea. But I forgot what it was.”

***

“I dreamt that I was grown up and I was skydiving……I was probably smiling in my sleep. And then Santa skydived.”

***

“There is not a SINGLE movie where love isn’t involved.”

“Love is a wonderful thing, Dave.”

“NOT when it keeps happening.”

Home is where we wrap the presents, secretly in the other room, at the last minute.

Letting little sister help.

Leaving them in a stack for the birthday boy to find.

Home is an empty couch filled with pillows one minute, full of boys the next.

Home is the sound of guesses, ripping wrapping paper, and surprises.

Shamrock fiesta mugs and nerf guns.

batman and superman

The wonder of a tiny microscope, books, legos, and a 2 dollar bill.

“I don’t think I’ll ever be able to spend this!”

“Why did you put tape?…….oh” … “Did you really put tape over every time it says that in the book? I bet you forgot at least one.”

Home is cherishing every moment.

And eating cheesecake.

It might even be homemade (it’s not).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVID LLOYD, you are a wonderful son. I love you so much.

20 years later

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Shanda

Last night I was home with Sarah and Caleb. Everyone else was out of the house doing their various activities. We were watching the Waltons and it just so happened it was the episode when John and Olivia were celebrating their 20 year wedding anniversary. John-Boy was busy driving back and forth to college, falling in love with a poet. The other kids were still going to the one room school house, and were painting a picture for their parents’ anniversary. The painting looked like the inside of a dollhouse, with each room painted in detail. Then, every person in the house, kids and grandparents, painted themselves into the picture.

John went shopping to buy his wife an elegant dress.

Olivia knitted John a sweater, using yarn from their seven children’s baby sweaters.

They renewed their vows in their living room, with only the children and grandparents in attendance and the local Preacher performing the ceremony.

It was heartwarming and so sweet. I couldn’t help but compare to my own life….because today Rich and I celebrate our 2oth anniversary. Our “John-Boy” is a college student now, and our “Elizabeth” is going along to school with the rest of the children. I’m Olivia Walton and my husband is John! This is mind-numbing….I grew up watching the show, pretending to be Mary Ellen or Erin, depending on my mood at the time.

And now I’m Olivia. I love Olivia. She’s always baking applesauce cakes to celebrate things.

True story, one of my ladies in my bible study class last year called me “Olivia”…..

*****

Rich had to go to work today but is taking tomorrow and Friday off. He’s having an adventure — a change in job title — makes him just a tad busier than usual.

But this morning as he ironed his pants he stopped to put his hands on my neck and say sweet things about how much he loves me and believe it or not, he loves me even more than when we were teenagers and so on….I started laughing, “Is this a canned message?” “No, I wrote it myself” he laughed back. A few minutes later Grace and I tiptoed back in the room. Ethan was talking to Rich all about his soccer game. Dave was playing the piano. I went over to give him a hug so Grace could take a picture of us, “Is this a canned hug, Shan?” Rich asked. Perfect comment….he got me.

Our kitten has a name. A perfect name.

I like to bring Grace’s rabbit inside to hop around and keep us company. The dog leaves her alone and so do the cats…it’s like peaceable kingdom in our house. She was nibbling an apple yesterday.

Sarah has had me worried sick for days and days. She finally got diagnosed with an UTI and has been on antibiotics for 2 days. She is beginning to perk up. The crying and feverish silence has turned back into chatting. The sleep and weakness is turning into quiet playing and coloring. The no appetite is turning into cravings for bacon. I’ll make her all the bacon she wants!

Yesterday I walked around with the camera. I was feeling anxious and weepy…but the eye for blessings (with help from the camera) always soothes and shows me there are an abundance of things to be grateful for, even in the midst of worry and very little sleep.

GENTLEMAN GRAY

Did you ever think, after 20 years, we would have a Seth and he would be our fifth son? What a dear boy he is, so bright and full of potential. He was playing a racing game with Jacob when I took this picture.

Did you think we would have a Dave? A boy so interesting and curious about life, who says thoughtful things every day to make me stop and think and laugh. He has an amazing mind.

This morning you lightheartedly called Grace “a product of our wonderfulness”. Can you imagine life without our Grace? Almost 16 years old, wise beyond those years, sweet and active, with a leadership potential that comes directly from you, her Dad.

And our Caleb….this morning he was spouting off football facts to you. He has a loving heart and notices the needs of others. He never goes to school or bed without giving out hugs.

Our Ethan…you still sometimes call him by the baby nickname we gave him…but he’s a SENIOR NOW…how did this happen? Our pride and joy, our second born son with his silent strength. Who would have guessed in 20 years, on our wedding anniversary, I would be picking this boy up from school so he could take his driver’s test?

Our college boy, learning and growing so much. Getting more independent. 20 years of marriage has produced an 18 year old son who is polite, kind, well-mannered, with a healthy dose of fun and silly, too. Isn’t he a wonderful big brother to our gang? And now…..he’s been so willing and helpful with his driving around picking up siblings after school.

I love keeping a home for you.

I love all our moments together. You are my safety and my strength.

You were ironing your pants for work and looked at me as I came for another hug…so Grace could take pictures…Ethan was busy talking to you and Dave was playing piano. It was 6:30 in the morning.

And we hugged and you asked, “Is this a canned hug, Shan?” but it wasn’t. All our hugs are true.

We laughed. Our hearts are full of joy and thankfulness today…for 20 sweet years together.

THANK YOU, JESUS!

I have just enough time to go bake a cake. An applesauce cake.

***

Applesauce Cake for the modern Olivia Walton

1 spice cake mix
2 cups applesauce
1/4 cup oil
2 eggs
1/4 cup wheat germ (optional)
frosting of your choice

Preheat oven to 350.
Mix together cake mix, applesauce, oil, and eggs in large bowl. Mix in wheat germ, if desired. Pour mixture into a 9 by 13 cake pan.

Bake 35-40 minutes

Allow cake to cool and frost.

recipe source:: 101 Things to do with a Cake Mix by Stephanie Ashcraft

a lovely family, part 2

Posted on September 10, 2015 by Shanda

Sarah went to school today so I was left alone again, back to those sad weird feelings of motherhood with nobody around because they are all at school. I left a note for Jacob and headed out. I had a doctor’s appointment at 10 so I went to the Bookstore until it was time and then after the appointment I had my oil changed and light replaced in my car. Then to Kohl’s to use my Kohl’s cash. I bought a Scarlet fiesta mug for 2.77. After that I went to Target to fill a prescription and use my coupons. I had Chickfila drive through for lunch and came home and watched part of a movie.

It’s actually raining!!!!!!! Soooooo happy. (Grace and I love to say that just like Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday).

David came home from school and threw a pink paper at me that has the schedule for open house tonight. It’s not something I’m looking forward to, but I’m going to do it because it’s my motherly duty. As an introvert, it is not fun for me to go to any school functions whatsoever.

David said that he told the assistant principal today about the girl who has been bullying him for almost 2 years. She’s been calling him a terrorist because he sometimes wears a black hooded zip up jacket. She is now accompanying her remarks with stabbing him in the neck with a pencil. Hmmmmm, wonder who the little terrorist is??? Dave wasn’t planning on this being the day he told someone about his woes with the girl, but as he was called down to the office he began to stare at a paper that said, “Have a problem? We will help you.” The assistant principal was meeting with all the students one by one to ask how they were enjoying seventh grade so far and noticed David’s fascination with the paper offering help, so she conscientiously talked to him.

“She said she was going to talk to the girl.” Dave told me. “I just hope when the girl finds out she doesn’t scream at me.”

“You do hate loud noises,” I agreed.

“Especially when they come from girls.” he said.

***

So after the family picnic Rich and I went to the mall with the kids. It was the very mall we went to all through our growing up years, teenage years, and early marriage and parenthood years. I hadn’t been there in a long time and the thing that struck me the most was the smell of cinnabons. It took me right back. Sarah had two dollars so I took her to the Hallmark store with Grace while the boys went off on their own. While we looked at the things Sarah said, “I need to go the bathroom!!” And when Sarah says she needs to go to the bathroom, you better listen…..so I grabbed her hand and took off running for JC Penny with Grace close behind. As we ran past the Verizon store, we saw James and Janice and the boys. (our dear dear friends) I couldn’t stop so Grace stayed behind and I called, “We’ll be right back!”

Eventually we all decided to eat at Ruby Tuesdays together and it was such fun, such a nice gift, especially since that very morning I had told Rich that I was thinking about Janice a lot.

Sunday morning we had a very lazy morning. Rich took the kids to breakfast and then to the pool. I had a hard time getting out of bed.

See the photo above Dave’s bed? That’s the building my Mom works in every day.

I asked the hotel if they had any copies of the picture but they didn’t. I would have loved one for my house.

Jacob was snoring so loud I asked E, “Doesn’t that bother you?” but he said “no”.

I met Rich and the kids downstairs and they said, “Didn’t you notice that this is fiestaware?” to me. And I hadn’t!

The hotel had cereal bowls, luncheon plates, and mugs, all in white.

Rich threatened to drive us all home that morning so I pushed aside my exhaustion and said that he just needed fresh air and exercise. So we went to the bookstore where Dave found some things that he would like for his birthday.

Jacob and Ethan went to my parent’s house. It was such a thrill for them to drive there all on their own, for the first time.

And the rest of us went to the park.

Grace did some sketching.

Rich and I rested on a blanket while the kids played on the big playground.

They threw things at a squirrel way up in a tree, and made up games with other children…….

Gracie

Grace took this one of the treetop.

After his nap, Rich went for a long run and then he felt much better about things. This is a man who needs to move around.

When he came back I was still in the same place. 🙂

Then I asked him if he would please please take me to Boscov’s and he agreed. This was another store that I remember my mom taking me to when I was a little girl. I just love going back home, we both do (Rich is from the same place).

I bought an egg plate what was on clearance, some silicone trivets, two bowls in lapis blue, and a poppy java mug.

AND THEN….we went to Humdingers ice cream for cones and slushies.

I had this ice cream sundae.

We got up early Monday morning and left for home. It was a very nice weekend even if Sarah did get sick that very night and was sick for the next two days, poor thing. She’s better now and will be getting home from school soon, along with Caleb and Seth. I have to leave in an hour and a half to take the boys to practice, pick up Grace, and go to the Middle school open house.

a loving family, part 1

Posted on September 9, 2015 by Shanda

***

Yesterday was a nonblogging day because I had some intestinal issues and debit card woes. I also had a little girl home from school with a fever and vomiting. I was also distracted by a new kitten. Also, Rich worked late. I had laundry to do, a kitchen to scrub, floors to vacuum, a book to read, seven children to take care of…..and so, the day passed away and before I knew it I was falling asleep and it was *today*.

Wednesday.

It will be another hot day here in New England, everything is dry, plants and humans alike. I’m so sick of keeping my hanging baskets alive. Consequently they are dead now and will be pitched into the trash. There are schools in part of Connecticut which are closing early because of the heat. Our school is not one of them and the boys still have football practice later. I’m all for it.

Before we left for our trip on Friday I took a selfie with my dog. He wasn’t too thrilled. He feels very uncomfortable with getting his photo taken.

Did I mention that Sarah is home from school again today? Her stomach is better but she still feels hot and has no energy. She’s leaning on my arm watching Aristocats as I type.

The first thing we do when we drive back home to New York is go straight to Grandes. My brother Dave, holding his motorcycle helmet, met us there.

Grace took this photo of the discussion Sarah and Uncle Dave were having about school.

Soon we were eating three large pizzas, the best pizza in the world as far as we are concerned.

After dinner we went to our hotel and the next morning was the family reunion for Rich’s side of the family.

I count my many blessings that I married into such a warm, down to earth, loving family. I’m forever thankful to be born into a wonderful family, and to be married into another one. Truly truly grateful.

It was the best day of letting the children run around with cousins as we sat and visited with everyone and ate good food, too.

Uncle Ed grilled hamburgers and hot dogs.

Mom Leslie brought her family favorite couscous salad.

We had baked beans, plums right off someone’s tree, all kinds of salads, watermelon, cake, all the good picnic foods.

Grace took this one, too.

We had the picnic at a beautiful quiet park.

Here is a nice picture of Dad with some of his many boys….son Jason, grandsons Ethan, Taevan, Noah, and Austin.

Dad’s sister Phyllis, (the quintessential aunt) with Sarah and me…..I think Sarah looks so much like her.

I didn’t get pictures of everyone. Uncle Bob and Aunt LouAnn were there, Roberta, Marcie, Uncle John and Aunt Edith, and so many others.

little nephew, Austin.

collecting acorns

Three of Jason and Mary’s four children. It’s a joy to see Rich’s brothers as family men….they married good women and are good husbands and fathers.

The kids had lots of fun on this slide all day long.

cousins

Aunt Phyllis had my iPhone and took about 35 pictures without ever being convinced she was doing it right. It was fun.

Rich’s Dad Willie and step-Mom Leslie (mom of our hearts) with their children….Rich, Dan, and Jason, daughters in law, and grandchildren.

The addition of Uncle Ed (in the hat) and Aunt Phyllis was made possible by a nice young lady that came over and offered to take a photo for us. I love how Aunt Phyllis and Dad are at each end…sister and brother…

I posted this picture on FB and caught Rich studying it for a long time and finally saying, “I really love this picture, Shan.”

It’s sometimes a pain to get everyone together for a portrait but it’s so worth it. Family is a treasure and each photo-reminder brings a softening to the heart with thankfulness to God for each adventure together.

Saying our farewells.

Until the next time!

God be with you.

***

The love in our family
flows strong and deep,
Leaving us memories
to treasure and keep.

Jacob’s first car, Jacob’s first day of college

Posted on August 31, 2015 by Shanda

It’s going to take me a little while to get used to this.

Will I ever get used to it? Please tell me I will.

On this very morning, the last day of August, Jacob and I went to the car dealership to finalize the purchase of his very first car.

I sat in my vehicle as he pulled away, with a police car following him (it just so happened).

I felt extremely nervous for him, the same kind of nervousness I feel at every major event, and full of adrenaline…I know in my logical brain that all is well and that this day is not as shattering as I feel that it is. But there is a disconnect between my head and my heart. Or is it a battle– a battle that my heart ALWAYS wins in these situations?

I watched him drive away, slowly and carefully, with a police car right behind him and several more cars, too. They were all probably wishing he would go a little faster but it was his first drive in his own car. (other than the test drive)

He was on his way to his first day of college. English class started at 11 in the morning.

I went next door to the grocery store and picked up groceries feeling completely alone, with heart palpitations, shaky hands, and burning eyes. Thank goodness for Rich, who was texting me that he loved me and everything was going to be okay. I saw young moms with their small children in the carts and I couldn’t stand it……I wanted one or two of mine back……but then, think of all the many times I went grocery shopping wishing I could concentrate and just get it done without the little voices asking me for everything they saw or little feet trying to run away from me in the parking lot?

A few times I caught myself talking to myself out loud in the store.

I kept wondering if Jacob was getting into an accident. I know it sounds terrible, but he is a new driver and the roads can be so busy…he has to drive the highway every day, he has to merge and change lanes and …… (!!)……

There was nothing to be done but go on my merry way, trusting my Jesus, but feeling a little bit lost just the same.

I came home and put the groceries away, let out the chickens, changed into shorts, made salisbury steak in the crock pot.

I finished my book and ate Cinnamon Bun Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. I had to! It was therapy — and it was delicious.

I finished up my Bible reading for the day. I love the book of Job. I’m also reading 2 Corinthians. There were two verses that “jumped out” at me today (you know what I mean?)

“As God’s grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving and God will receive more and more glory.” 2 Cor. 4:15 (*more and more* I love that!)

“For we live by believing and not by seeing.” 2 Cor. 5:7 (what an unusual way to live, a way that works only by the “magic” and power of God Himself, through faith and constant communication with Him. I love how life in Jesus is so strange and wonderful. Think about it, there are probably angels all around me, my family, your family at this very moment, and I know for a fact that God Himself is always always near!).

Jacob texted me at 12:15 to let me know that he had made it to school and had his first class. I was so relieved. His day is done at 2 (right about now!) and I will wait like Forrest Gump at the end of the movie until he pulls into the driveway. I can’t wait to hear all about it.

I am proud of myself because I didn’t let on one bit to Jacob that I was nervous for him. I didn’t want to be anything but supportive. So don’t tell, ‘k?

Having conversations with no one at the grocery store AND the blog today….I’m getting scared now. LOL

2011 VW Jetta TDI and my grown up son…

Simply trusting every day;
Trusting through a stormy way;
Even when my faith is small,
Trusting Jesus, that is all.
Trusting as the moments fly,
Trusting as the days go by,
Trusting Him, whate’er befall,
Trusting Jesus, that is all.

Brightly doth His Spirit shine
Into this poor heart of mine;
While He leads I cannot fall,
Trusting Jesus, that is all.

Singing if my way be clear,
Praying if the path be drear;
If in danger, for Him call,
Trusting Jesus, that is all.

Trusting Him while life shall last,
Trusting Him till earth is past,
Till His gracious advent call,
Trusting Jesus, that is all.

Edgar Page Stites

dave gets hugged

Posted on August 26, 2015 by Shanda

This is another blog post dedicated to our vacation to Jekyll Island, Georgia.

These photos were all taken with my phone.

I had bought Crackerbarrel gift cards for Christmas presents for last Christmas…but never gave them out…so we used them ourselves for a nice breakfast. I do feel kind of bad about that.

There was a tiny baby at the Crackerbarrel sitting at the next table over. She was so little I wondered how she was going to sit with out falling forward and bumping the table. But she was strong and did great and was sooooooo cute. I watched her as she kept her eyes on the spoon her Dad was feeding her with. I ended up holding my own very big baby on my lap by the end of breakfast.

This is Caleb doing artwork and eating oreos during the trip.

Taking naps during the trip.

We finally arrived! Sarah was just so thrilled to be “in Georgia”.

This is me and my sister, with our girls Abbie and Grace.

Food at the Pier was amazing. It’s my favorite place to eat on Jekyll. I had the boiled shrimp and this is the plate of seafood that Jacob and David shared.

One morning I left the Sans Souci with just my little Seth (6 years old). We were the only ones awake out of my family. We snuck outdoors, holding hands, and went over to the main Jekyll Clubhouse to get my complimentary cup of coffee. On the way back we met Isaac and Cassandra about to go on a bike ride.

While all the men in our family went golfing, I took Caleb, Seth, and Sarah to the little shops by the Clubhouse. Seth quickly chose this dog puppet. He named it Jekyll. At the next shop, I had him sit on the bench outside and play my phone so I didn’t have to keep track of three small kids. Later I discovered that he had taken this picture of his new friend.

If you bought a soda you got free refills with your cup all day long. The kids all LOVED the Shirly Temples. We got them over and over. There is nothing like an ice cold soda on a hot day.

Amanda took this one of my mom and me walking with Cassandra and Maria.

Rich took Caleb, Seth, and Sarah biking.

Mom took Ethan and me to Brunswick to do a little shopping at some antique stores.

I took this picture for my son David because he collects Coke bottles. This purple one was purple, heavy and cost 40 dollars.

In Brunswick there was a park square every few blocks. Each one was named and had nice places to sit and relax next to flowers and fountains.

I took Grace to the shops. This is one of my favorite pictures. We were missing our own cats back at home and were happy to find and make friends with this nice big one outside of the bookstore.

My favorite stationary….curly girl design.

Grace lost her necklace on vacation. It was her favorite one, too. (she’s wearing it in the picture).

I lost my new kindle fire. (!!!!!!!!!!!) makes me ill.

On Friday night we played beach volleyball.

It’s amazing to have a family big enough to have a game, and it was so much fun.

When we hit it out of bounds someone would say “Look out for the alligators!” or, “Look out for the rattle snakes!”

I was supposed to be playing my position but still managed to get some good photos!

Sunset making the road look like it was on fire…….

On Saturday morning it was time to say our goodbyes and travel back home. I love this sister-pic of Maria, Cassandra, Melissa, Amanda, and Shanda (yours truly). I love how all our names end in “a”, the “uh” sound. I especially loved visiting with Maria and Melissa because I don’t get to see them as much as I would like. I’m so blessed to have the best sisters.

Aunt Amanda, Uncle Jason, Grandma, and Grandpa leaned into the van to say goodbye to the children.

But one was missing!

It was Dave.

He had ran over to the pool to try to find his flip-flops (another thing lost..ugh)

So Rich and I hopped in the van, ready to leave, and watched as the family gave Dave lots of hugs. And he’s the type that gets shy with too much public attention! It was the best little moment……

He’s in there! Surrounded by his adoring family.

Look at that face!

goodbye, goodbye!

God be with you ’til we meet again.

“You can kiss your family and friends goodbye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.” Frederick Buechner

finding

Posted on August 23, 2015 by Shanda

And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name. 1 Chronicles 29:13

They didn’t know I was taking a picture with my phone.

Dave could not find his shoes and had to wear his Dad’s big white size 13s into the store.

We stopped at Barnes and Noble at about 7:30, on our long-long drive home from Georgia.

Rich and I lined them up on the curb so we could give instructions and information to everyone at once, rather than 6 times (forgetting the seventh, which is typical–SOMEONE gets missed!oops).

The instructions were: 1. Everyone needed to use the bathroom. 2. Everyone may pick out something to read.

The news was: 1. We were driving all the way home without stopping at a hotel to sleep.

We arrived home early this morning at 4:30.

My favorite memory of traveling was at about 2 in the morning when they had taken little naps, gotten over the grumps, and had a second wind of cheer. Singing to the radio, telling funny stories to classical music, watching a video. At 2 a.m.!! Such good little travelers.

Rich singing every hymn he could think of to himself while flying down the highway in the fast lane……me half enjoying it and half plugging my ears so I could concentrate on my new cheap paperback. Hanging on and whispering prayers.

Rich, by the grace of God, is raising up some good young men. This is our Ethan. He loves Jesus, being active, sports. He doesn’t talk much. He can dance some cool moves. He is confident, respectful, honest, and doesn’t take any slack from his younger siblings. My favorite memories of Ethan from vacation are 1. When he pulled himself up over a high wall to retrieve the volleyball we had hit way out of bounds. and 2. When he walked out of McDonalds holding Seth’s hand on one side and Sarah’s on the other. Be still my heart.

My mom loved vacationing with all of her children and grandchildren, but she was itching to get back to her garden.

I’m just like her. My garden is much smaller but the first thing I did today after I woke up at 11am was go outside with my cup of coffee.

I knew where to find some treasures. Some were obvious, like the bright red tomatoes. But others, like the cucumbers and green beans, were hidden and had to be searched out.

For brunch I made a quiche.

chopped bacon fried with a section of minced onion and one green pepper

added to 8 beaten eggs, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup milk

2/3 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup cheddar

1/4 tsp pepper, a few nice healthy grinds of salt from salt-grinder

all leaves from the two beets I harvested (can substitute 3 cups chopped lightly packed fresh spinach)

fresh basil, chopped (about 1/3 cup)

about 1/3 cup tomato

Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes or until set.

I served it with the rest of the garden tomato, mixed with salt, olive oil, onion, and basil.

***

I almost shrieked when Tessa told me school started this Thursday. I thought I had one more solid week with the children. My heart aches because Sarah Joy is going off for her first day of Kindergarten. Mothers understand what I mean….I’m happy for her, I know she’s ready, but as a mom I feel that small sad-like feeling of letting go. Rich read Seth and Sarah letters from their teachers, which were in the mailbox when we got home from vacation. Their little faces were seriously listening to every word. They have homework to do, and a meet and greet on Wednesday. I don’t quite feel ready, but I’m thankful for this journey with my children and that little by little they grow up, not all at once. Thankful for Jesus and for my husband making it easier.

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27

“I love those who love me; And those who diligently seek me will find me.” Proverbs 8:17

gifts-peace-love-seeking and finding the greatest treasure–HIM