Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
I'm feeling fine. Our apartment is wall-to-wall tidiness. Ah, like "Brigadoon." Once every 100 years, LOL...I once saw a plaque that read, "My house was clean yesterday. Sorry you missed it." Now, I've caught flak for thinking that was funny. After all, our house should stay tidy all the time, no? I promise you, Friends, I do my best. Anyway, the (apartment) complex management came today to each apartment to treat for pests and check the smoke detectors. I've been sweating bullets for the last few days--cleaning closets, pulling out the couches, tables...vacuuming under there. (I found some treasures from the last occupants, LOL. Made me feel better.) So, while the Lambs and I were eating lunch...knock, knock, knock...
There were 3 men (from the management). They were in and out in under 30 seconds. I felt like yelling, "Hey, come back!!!! Don't you wanna look behind the sofa???" ROTFLOL
Well, we'll be leaving here next week to go back home to Big City. Gotta admit, there is much to love about the South...Still, it'll be good to get back to our new normal, up in MO.
We visited The Ram's Grandparents Waaaay Down South last weekend. It was such a nice time. Ram's Grandma can grow *anything.* It ain't just her thumb, what's green. ;-)
I guess you're wondering about the title. Let me tell you about something Tater said really early one morning last weekend...He woke up first and had something to say:
"Mommy, did you know the moon melts?"
Mommy, sleepily: "No. Really?"
"Yup."
Mommy, still sleepy: "That's neat."
"Yeah, and do you know how you fix the moon?"
Mommy opens one eye, slightly interested: "No, how?"
"You gather up lots of clouds to make the moon back."
Mommy sits up, "Wow, that's something."
"Yeah, you go up in a flying car [airplane] and gather up all the clouds to make the moon back."
Smile.
"When I grow up, I'll fly the car and you can sit beside me. "
Isn't that sweet? His mom is his co-pilot. :-) (Never did like that saying, "God is my co-pilot." If that's true, you better switch seats ;-) Anyhoo...
Well, gotta go...I feel the Tidiness slipping away..."Must clean....must clean....must cle..."
Y'all keep your wool dry,
The Ewe
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Monday, March 12, 2007
Hello, I'm The Ewe and I'm a...
Hello, F.O.T.E's,
I have an alarming confession to make. A few seconds ago, I was viewing a (brace yourselves) webpage devoted entirely to (are you ready?) doing laundry.
Now, as disturbing as *that* is, that's not even my confession. While I was viewing that page outlining One Gal's Way (to do her family's wash), I noticed my pulse racing. My palms were getting damp. Then, in a moment of self-awareness, I knew it was true...I suffer from Colorcodiphobia.
Those of you who know me well will not be surprised by this admission. The Ram and I have been married 16 years, so far. For the past 16 years I have struggled mightily to learn to keep house--let alone Make a Home. I have a picture/idea in my mind how I want the house to look. That would be, basically, tidy. I'm not shooting for a magazine cover (stop laughing), just tidiness.
In this quest, I have read many books, articles, etc on how to improve myself in this area. None of them has fit exactly right for me, but I have definitely improved. The biggest, most helpful thing that I/we did was to get rid of tons of unneeded treasures. (I was tempted to say "junk," but some of it was actually useful!) Just paring down like that has eased our cleaning load considerably, especially in the laundry department...which brings me back to today....
Yup. Looking at the One Gal's Way of doing laundry, with all her neat white boxes with labels--correction--Color Coded labels, made me realize how panicked I feel when faced with color- coded anything. I break out in a sweat. I feel like I'm about to take an exam.
Now, don't get me wrong...I think being organized is really important. I *believe* in it. And, like I said, as poor as I am at it, I *have* improved in this area. I've gotten a tiny bit better with each child. (survival!) Still, I admit, it's my handicap. We all have our challenges, no? :-)
I realized a few minutes ago, my Colorcodiphobia is not limited to laundry. Any time, under any circumstance I can think of, trying to keep things color-coded stresses me out. When organizing gurus start out by introducing you to their great system--complete with "color codes"--I immediately feel alienated by them. I think, "Oh. You're one of *them." You could never understand me." I like the organizing folks who start out by saying, "Before I developed this routine, my house was a wreck." *That* I can identify with! Sigh...LOL
Well, I hope you won't hold this painful admission against me. I *am* tilting at this windmill! LOL I guess for me it's a "line upon line, precept upon precept" growth process. Ah, well. Progress, not perfection, right? :-)
So, I'll keep plugging away. I want my children to have more of a clue than me...we're kinda learning together. :-) But please, if you send me organization advice, don't start out by saying, "OK, this color means..."
tee hee
Hey here's *my* advice--Y'all keep your wool dry!!! :-)
The Ewe
I have an alarming confession to make. A few seconds ago, I was viewing a (brace yourselves) webpage devoted entirely to (are you ready?) doing laundry.
Now, as disturbing as *that* is, that's not even my confession. While I was viewing that page outlining One Gal's Way (to do her family's wash), I noticed my pulse racing. My palms were getting damp. Then, in a moment of self-awareness, I knew it was true...I suffer from Colorcodiphobia.
Those of you who know me well will not be surprised by this admission. The Ram and I have been married 16 years, so far. For the past 16 years I have struggled mightily to learn to keep house--let alone Make a Home. I have a picture/idea in my mind how I want the house to look. That would be, basically, tidy. I'm not shooting for a magazine cover (stop laughing), just tidiness.
In this quest, I have read many books, articles, etc on how to improve myself in this area. None of them has fit exactly right for me, but I have definitely improved. The biggest, most helpful thing that I/we did was to get rid of tons of unneeded treasures. (I was tempted to say "junk," but some of it was actually useful!) Just paring down like that has eased our cleaning load considerably, especially in the laundry department...which brings me back to today....
Yup. Looking at the One Gal's Way of doing laundry, with all her neat white boxes with labels--correction--Color Coded labels, made me realize how panicked I feel when faced with color- coded anything. I break out in a sweat. I feel like I'm about to take an exam.
Now, don't get me wrong...I think being organized is really important. I *believe* in it. And, like I said, as poor as I am at it, I *have* improved in this area. I've gotten a tiny bit better with each child. (survival!) Still, I admit, it's my handicap. We all have our challenges, no? :-)
I realized a few minutes ago, my Colorcodiphobia is not limited to laundry. Any time, under any circumstance I can think of, trying to keep things color-coded stresses me out. When organizing gurus start out by introducing you to their great system--complete with "color codes"--I immediately feel alienated by them. I think, "Oh. You're one of *them." You could never understand me." I like the organizing folks who start out by saying, "Before I developed this routine, my house was a wreck." *That* I can identify with! Sigh...LOL
Well, I hope you won't hold this painful admission against me. I *am* tilting at this windmill! LOL I guess for me it's a "line upon line, precept upon precept" growth process. Ah, well. Progress, not perfection, right? :-)
So, I'll keep plugging away. I want my children to have more of a clue than me...we're kinda learning together. :-) But please, if you send me organization advice, don't start out by saying, "OK, this color means..."
tee hee
Hey here's *my* advice--Y'all keep your wool dry!!! :-)
The Ewe
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Catchin' Up and New Ewe-manitarian Award
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s!
The Ram and I were sooo blessed last week to run into Alipurr and family. It's been years! They are such a dear, dear family. :-)
Let's seee...since we last talked the Ram Fam has had another "event." I really don't *try* to have a life full of drama, but it seems like Drama often finds us. LOL
I was sitting here, Way Down South, minding my own business, when I got a call from the water dept. up in Big City. They were letting me know that part of our house was flooded!!!! EEK! Seems the furnace on our rental house gave out during all the sub-zero weather up there, and...well, you can guess...
I cried buckets the first day, but then woke up the next day and the clouds were gone and I felt much better about life. The thing is, welll...
Remember last year when we were planning a move to Europe? So, I called Goodwill and they brought their big moving truck out *3* (count 'em) times to pick up most of our worldly possessions? So, basically all we had left was stuff we "couldn't live without" (HAH!) and stuff that was powerful sentimental. Remember? So, last summer, when we moved to Big City, most of what was left was stuff we really wanted to keep. We had everything put away and boxes unpacked except for one corner of our basement. Wanna make a guess at where the pipe burst and water came spurting out? Yup. THAT corner of the basement. *Now* I can LOL!
Wanna know the funniest part? I had stored that stuff in the basement so it wouldn't get carried off by a twister. ROTFLOL!!!! ARGH!!!!
Anyway, The Ram and GrandRam spent a couple days in Big City, airing stuff out. Most things were salvaged, though some were ruined. We're getting new carpet out of it--which is good. (We had had an unfortunate purple grape juice incident right in that spot. :-)
Now, the Ewe-manitarian Award...
It goes to The R Family for their tremendous amount of labor in moving our wet boxes, furniture, etc and also providing yummy meals and hospitality for The Ram and GrandRam while those two were working. I'll tell you, The R's have been very kind to us. Quite a blessing. THANK YOU, R Fam!!
Well, gotta go put on the soup pot. We're having Potato Soup tonight--gotta use up some spuds before they look back at me.
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
P.S. I've got no Quote today, but a funny thing did happen. This morning, Tater *bit* Musical! GASP! His transgression was dealt with and apologies said. The episode was forgotten for a while, until Mr. Rogers came on t.v. He was about to go to the dentist and made a comment about it being wrongity-wrong for someone to bite someone else. From the beginning of the program, T.T. had been very interested in what Mr. R was saying, but when he mentioned biting, T.T. sat up and took notice. Tater looked stricken. I imagined him thinking, "Wow. That Mr. Rogers knows *EVERYTHING!*) LOL
The Ram and I were sooo blessed last week to run into Alipurr and family. It's been years! They are such a dear, dear family. :-)
Let's seee...since we last talked the Ram Fam has had another "event." I really don't *try* to have a life full of drama, but it seems like Drama often finds us. LOL
I was sitting here, Way Down South, minding my own business, when I got a call from the water dept. up in Big City. They were letting me know that part of our house was flooded!!!! EEK! Seems the furnace on our rental house gave out during all the sub-zero weather up there, and...well, you can guess...
I cried buckets the first day, but then woke up the next day and the clouds were gone and I felt much better about life. The thing is, welll...
Remember last year when we were planning a move to Europe? So, I called Goodwill and they brought their big moving truck out *3* (count 'em) times to pick up most of our worldly possessions? So, basically all we had left was stuff we "couldn't live without" (HAH!) and stuff that was powerful sentimental. Remember? So, last summer, when we moved to Big City, most of what was left was stuff we really wanted to keep. We had everything put away and boxes unpacked except for one corner of our basement. Wanna make a guess at where the pipe burst and water came spurting out? Yup. THAT corner of the basement. *Now* I can LOL!
Wanna know the funniest part? I had stored that stuff in the basement so it wouldn't get carried off by a twister. ROTFLOL!!!! ARGH!!!!
Anyway, The Ram and GrandRam spent a couple days in Big City, airing stuff out. Most things were salvaged, though some were ruined. We're getting new carpet out of it--which is good. (We had had an unfortunate purple grape juice incident right in that spot. :-)
Now, the Ewe-manitarian Award...
It goes to The R Family for their tremendous amount of labor in moving our wet boxes, furniture, etc and also providing yummy meals and hospitality for The Ram and GrandRam while those two were working. I'll tell you, The R's have been very kind to us. Quite a blessing. THANK YOU, R Fam!!
Well, gotta go put on the soup pot. We're having Potato Soup tonight--gotta use up some spuds before they look back at me.
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
P.S. I've got no Quote today, but a funny thing did happen. This morning, Tater *bit* Musical! GASP! His transgression was dealt with and apologies said. The episode was forgotten for a while, until Mr. Rogers came on t.v. He was about to go to the dentist and made a comment about it being wrongity-wrong for someone to bite someone else. From the beginning of the program, T.T. had been very interested in what Mr. R was saying, but when he mentioned biting, T.T. sat up and took notice. Tater looked stricken. I imagined him thinking, "Wow. That Mr. Rogers knows *EVERYTHING!*) LOL
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Rambling Toddler Thoughts
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
Happy St. Valentine's Day! The Ram awakened us with a huge balloon bouquet, oodles of chocolate hearts, and a big bunch of roses. He said he always gets funny looks when he shops for Valentine's Day, LOL. What a blessed man, to have sooo many "Valentines." We enjoy this day and love our DaddyRam. :-)
I thought I'd share with you a little giggle from a couple nights ago...
I was lying with Tater, settling him in for the night. He was quite drowsy, so I didn't think much of it when he stated, "I like bamboo." I didn't even open my eyes as I said, "Hmm...You do?"
"Yeah. He's my favorite reindeer," said Tater.
I still didn't open my eyes, but started thinking, "Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen..." Nope. No Bamboo. I still wasn't too concerned--we don't "do" Santa around here, though we talk about St. Nicholas...who didn't have any flying reindeer. Oh well. One can't always understand Toddler Logic. I nestled down and prepared to go to sleep. But T.T. wasn't finished...
I suddenly understood what he was talking about when he declared, "Yeah. Bamboo is the one in that movie who says, 'Watch what *I* can do!!'"
Though it was actually Thumper who said it, T.T.'s statement got the point across.
Well, must run. Need to go wipe a sticky mouth before it gets wiped on the sofa...
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
P.S. Email me if you need an explanation of the above. :-)
Happy St. Valentine's Day! The Ram awakened us with a huge balloon bouquet, oodles of chocolate hearts, and a big bunch of roses. He said he always gets funny looks when he shops for Valentine's Day, LOL. What a blessed man, to have sooo many "Valentines." We enjoy this day and love our DaddyRam. :-)
I thought I'd share with you a little giggle from a couple nights ago...
I was lying with Tater, settling him in for the night. He was quite drowsy, so I didn't think much of it when he stated, "I like bamboo." I didn't even open my eyes as I said, "Hmm...You do?"
"Yeah. He's my favorite reindeer," said Tater.
I still didn't open my eyes, but started thinking, "Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen..." Nope. No Bamboo. I still wasn't too concerned--we don't "do" Santa around here, though we talk about St. Nicholas...who didn't have any flying reindeer. Oh well. One can't always understand Toddler Logic. I nestled down and prepared to go to sleep. But T.T. wasn't finished...
I suddenly understood what he was talking about when he declared, "Yeah. Bamboo is the one in that movie who says, 'Watch what *I* can do!!'"
Though it was actually Thumper who said it, T.T.'s statement got the point across.
Well, must run. Need to go wipe a sticky mouth before it gets wiped on the sofa...
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
P.S. Email me if you need an explanation of the above. :-)
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Update on the Flock
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
Thought I'd post a quick update on us.
We are Down South now, at the GrandRam's house. In a few days, there will be an apartment available for us where The Ram is taking his class--Down South-er. :-) We are really looking forward to being with him every day. We are blessed to be able to go with him this time.
The Ram and I have been married 16 years now and he's periodically had to go off for a few months. This is the first time we've been able to go with him. The Lord is good. He knew I needed my husband right now.
Lil Miss H is doing great. Over 12 pounds at our check up a few weeks ago. I'm still not quite right, physically, from the birth. I guess with twins, it takes a while for all the parts to readjust. LOL At least, that's what I'm telling myself--don't want to blame AGE for anything. Still, it seems that when I started this 13 years ago, my body was more forgiving. Ah, but God has given me lots of great lil helpers, so I can't complain.
Oops...Miss H *can* complain and is doing it as we speak. I'd better go see what the matter is.
Blessings to you all...
Hey, by the way:
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Thought I'd post a quick update on us.
We are Down South now, at the GrandRam's house. In a few days, there will be an apartment available for us where The Ram is taking his class--Down South-er. :-) We are really looking forward to being with him every day. We are blessed to be able to go with him this time.
The Ram and I have been married 16 years now and he's periodically had to go off for a few months. This is the first time we've been able to go with him. The Lord is good. He knew I needed my husband right now.
Lil Miss H is doing great. Over 12 pounds at our check up a few weeks ago. I'm still not quite right, physically, from the birth. I guess with twins, it takes a while for all the parts to readjust. LOL At least, that's what I'm telling myself--don't want to blame AGE for anything. Still, it seems that when I started this 13 years ago, my body was more forgiving. Ah, but God has given me lots of great lil helpers, so I can't complain.
Oops...Miss H *can* complain and is doing it as we speak. I'd better go see what the matter is.
Blessings to you all...
Hey, by the way:
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
K-O-L-D!!!!
Hello F.O.T.E.'s,
Only have a second, but I just had to say...
"IT'S KOLD!!!!"
I'm sure you didn't know this, but in the RamFam, we have, "cold, colder, coldest..." then, on the very rare occasion: "KOLD!!!"
I just checked the temp (outside ;-) and it's 2 degrees with a wind chill of -8 !! Yowza!
Think I'm going to ask the kids to go lick the mailbox post...heh, heh, heh...
JUST KIDDIN'!
Alrighty...gotta run...
Y'all keep your wool dry...AND WARM!
The Ewe
P.S. Happy Birthday, Mama
Only have a second, but I just had to say...
"IT'S KOLD!!!!"
I'm sure you didn't know this, but in the RamFam, we have, "cold, colder, coldest..." then, on the very rare occasion: "KOLD!!!"
I just checked the temp (outside ;-) and it's 2 degrees with a wind chill of -8 !! Yowza!
Think I'm going to ask the kids to go lick the mailbox post...heh, heh, heh...
JUST KIDDIN'!
Alrighty...gotta run...
Y'all keep your wool dry...AND WARM!
The Ewe
P.S. Happy Birthday, Mama
Saturday, January 13, 2007
John Wayne Theology? or We Have Some 'Splaining to Do
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
Well, it's icy here. Nothing like going to sleep to the sound of sleet hitting the windows! The bad weather here in the midwest caused the airline to cancel The Ram's flight last night. He's off for a few months for some training Down South and had leave for this weekend. They say they'll try flying again today. I just want him to be safe!
You know, I think some people believe that soldier's homes are filled to the brim with weapons of all kinds. I don't know about any other soldier's houses, but the most vicious weapon we have here is a paint gun and a baseball bat. (and the hairy stuff in the refrigerator's crisper--more of a biological weapon ;-) Anyway, I want to dispel the idea that all soldiers are always aggressive and violent.
We are careful about the media our children are exposed to and discourage violent play outside of the chivalrous "knight-saving-the-princess" variety.
So, am I sounding defensive? A bit guilt-ridden? Sigh. Try to keep an open mind as you read the exchange below...
Tater Tot: "Mommy, bad people aren't nice."
The Ewe: "No, but even bad people need Jesus. We should pray for the bad people to come to know Jesus."
Tater Tot: "Yeah... Jesus has a GUN!"
Would you consider that a "come to Jesus meeting?" ;-)
Well, I'm off to read the Bible to Tater Tot. Y'all keep your wool dry...
The Ewe
Well, it's icy here. Nothing like going to sleep to the sound of sleet hitting the windows! The bad weather here in the midwest caused the airline to cancel The Ram's flight last night. He's off for a few months for some training Down South and had leave for this weekend. They say they'll try flying again today. I just want him to be safe!
You know, I think some people believe that soldier's homes are filled to the brim with weapons of all kinds. I don't know about any other soldier's houses, but the most vicious weapon we have here is a paint gun and a baseball bat. (and the hairy stuff in the refrigerator's crisper--more of a biological weapon ;-) Anyway, I want to dispel the idea that all soldiers are always aggressive and violent.
We are careful about the media our children are exposed to and discourage violent play outside of the chivalrous "knight-saving-the-princess" variety.
So, am I sounding defensive? A bit guilt-ridden? Sigh. Try to keep an open mind as you read the exchange below...
Tater Tot: "Mommy, bad people aren't nice."
The Ewe: "No, but even bad people need Jesus. We should pray for the bad people to come to know Jesus."
Tater Tot: "Yeah... Jesus has a GUN!"
Would you consider that a "come to Jesus meeting?" ;-)
Well, I'm off to read the Bible to Tater Tot. Y'all keep your wool dry...
The Ewe
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Please Don't Call PETA
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s!
How is 2007 treating you so far? The Flock is doing great. Lil' Miss H has had a few fussy days of late. I think she's hitting that second growth spurt--she'll be 6 weeks old in a few days!! I can hardly believe it. The other lambies are just crazy about her. So much so, that we've started calling her "Ivory Soap." The others act like she's going to get "used up" by their siblings, when it isn't Said Child's turn to hold the baby. LOL
Well, I guess I'll explain the title now...
On New Year's Day I was busy eavesdropping on The Ram's phone conversation with the GrandRam when Tater Tot came up to me, chattering. He was wanting me to join him in his pretending. I smiled at him and "Yes, Dear"-ed and "ooh"-ed and "ahh"-ed at how clever he was, but, in reality, I was ignoring him. (None of y'all have ever done that, right? ;-) Anyway, when T.T. stuck his hand out toward me with some imaginary offering, I assumed we were engaged in another pretend tea party. I absentmindedly accepted what I assumed to be an invisible petit-four or scone or cookie and popped it into my mouth.
I quickly made the obligatory, "Mmm!!! Yummy!!!" sounds, complete with cartoonish, raised eyebrows and vigorously nodded head.
I immediately noticed Tater Tot's confused and slightly horrified face.
I nearly choked when he blurted out, "You ate the BABY LION!!!"
I fear my son may never invite me to play "Zoo Keeper" with him again.
Must run...veggie soup's on the menu tonight...but not if I don't shake a leg. Blessings to all of you.
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Honey, you make a man feel funny." The Ram
(So, is that "funny like a clown?" lol)
How is 2007 treating you so far? The Flock is doing great. Lil' Miss H has had a few fussy days of late. I think she's hitting that second growth spurt--she'll be 6 weeks old in a few days!! I can hardly believe it. The other lambies are just crazy about her. So much so, that we've started calling her "Ivory Soap." The others act like she's going to get "used up" by their siblings, when it isn't Said Child's turn to hold the baby. LOL
Well, I guess I'll explain the title now...
On New Year's Day I was busy eavesdropping on The Ram's phone conversation with the GrandRam when Tater Tot came up to me, chattering. He was wanting me to join him in his pretending. I smiled at him and "Yes, Dear"-ed and "ooh"-ed and "ahh"-ed at how clever he was, but, in reality, I was ignoring him. (None of y'all have ever done that, right? ;-) Anyway, when T.T. stuck his hand out toward me with some imaginary offering, I assumed we were engaged in another pretend tea party. I absentmindedly accepted what I assumed to be an invisible petit-four or scone or cookie and popped it into my mouth.
I quickly made the obligatory, "Mmm!!! Yummy!!!" sounds, complete with cartoonish, raised eyebrows and vigorously nodded head.
I immediately noticed Tater Tot's confused and slightly horrified face.
I nearly choked when he blurted out, "You ate the BABY LION!!!"
I fear my son may never invite me to play "Zoo Keeper" with him again.
Must run...veggie soup's on the menu tonight...but not if I don't shake a leg. Blessings to all of you.
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Honey, you make a man feel funny." The Ram
(So, is that "funny like a clown?" lol)
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Friday, December 15, 2006
Charity Promise
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
Well, some of you know I'm a bit paranoid about putting pictures on the internet, LOL, but I've had so many kind folks ask about a picture of Charity. The Ram and I discussed it, and, seeing as though she's perfectly safe in Jesus' arms, we decided it would be OK to post this picture. :-)
Some asked if we used makeup on Charity, as her lips were so red. No, she had no makeup at all. Her entire life, she had perfect little rosebud lips. :-)
God bless you all.
The Ewe
P.S. The swan is a gift from LionessLamb. She had bought it for her baby sister for Christmas.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
The Flock's Back Home!
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s!
Well, we're all home in the Big City again. We actually got home a couple nights ago.
I wanted to share the words to a hymn that has come to mind repeatedly over the past couple weeks. The title is _He Giveth More Grace_ and the composer is Annie Flint.
"He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again."
Friends, we have experienced every line and phrase of that song over the past 2 weeks. During childbirth, there came a point (as there always does ;-) when I said, "Nope. I can't do this." Now, I've said that during every delivery, and I know it's what they call an "emotional milestone" of labor. But, when you're in the middle of it, you really believe it! I thought, "THIS time I MEAN it!! I *can't* do it!!!" The Ram calmly, knowingly said, "You CAN do it! You ARE doing it! You've done it 4 times before!" About that time, I asked the midwife to check my progress (you gals know what that means, lol ;-) Six cm. Just over half way dilated. Bummer. With the other babies I was at least 7 cm before I "Couldn't do it." LOL This time, I thought, "If I've got to do this so many more hours, I just can't." But, somehow, the Lord granted just enough endurance to get through just ONE MORE contraction.
See, when we look at The Whole Elephant, we think, "Wow. I could never eat that whole thing!!" But if we just concentrate on "One bite at a time" we can eventually eat that rascal. Now, don't chase that rabbit--I'm not talking about gluttony, lol, but rather disciplining our mind. During labor, I need my husband there, filling my mind with truth, placing his hands over mine on the reins as I try to steer my thoughts away from fear and panic.
Now, I don't remember much from between the "I can't do this" moment to holding Lil Miss H and Sunflower Girl in my arms. But, I'm sitting here, two weeks later and, guess what?! BY GOD'S GRACE, I *did* do it! I don't understand it.
I don't understand the peace that the Lord gave us as we said goodbye to our beloved daughter. I don't understand the peace he gave as we buried my dear mother, only a couple days later (Grandma Ewe died the day after Sunflower Girl).
I don't understand why He loved us so much, He sent His Son, Jesus, to take our punishment (death) so that we can be with Him in heaven one day. We can't earn that grace. It is a gift from God.
Oh me...I've rambled on again. I hear The Ram coming in with groceries. I tell you what, I'm a "kept woman." :-)
Hey, here's another favor you can do for me...if you haven't found your Christmas music yet, rustle around in that old cardboard box (or wherever) and see if you can't find it. It's Jesus' Birthday!!! Let's celebrate!
Gotta run...Y'all keep your wool dry...
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Look! I'm small enough to fit in my *maternity clothes* now!!!"
The Ewe, after losing 40 pounds, LOL!
Well, we're all home in the Big City again. We actually got home a couple nights ago.
I wanted to share the words to a hymn that has come to mind repeatedly over the past couple weeks. The title is _He Giveth More Grace_ and the composer is Annie Flint.
"He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again."
Friends, we have experienced every line and phrase of that song over the past 2 weeks. During childbirth, there came a point (as there always does ;-) when I said, "Nope. I can't do this." Now, I've said that during every delivery, and I know it's what they call an "emotional milestone" of labor. But, when you're in the middle of it, you really believe it! I thought, "THIS time I MEAN it!! I *can't* do it!!!" The Ram calmly, knowingly said, "You CAN do it! You ARE doing it! You've done it 4 times before!" About that time, I asked the midwife to check my progress (you gals know what that means, lol ;-) Six cm. Just over half way dilated. Bummer. With the other babies I was at least 7 cm before I "Couldn't do it." LOL This time, I thought, "If I've got to do this so many more hours, I just can't." But, somehow, the Lord granted just enough endurance to get through just ONE MORE contraction.
See, when we look at The Whole Elephant, we think, "Wow. I could never eat that whole thing!!" But if we just concentrate on "One bite at a time" we can eventually eat that rascal. Now, don't chase that rabbit--I'm not talking about gluttony, lol, but rather disciplining our mind. During labor, I need my husband there, filling my mind with truth, placing his hands over mine on the reins as I try to steer my thoughts away from fear and panic.
Now, I don't remember much from between the "I can't do this" moment to holding Lil Miss H and Sunflower Girl in my arms. But, I'm sitting here, two weeks later and, guess what?! BY GOD'S GRACE, I *did* do it! I don't understand it.
I don't understand the peace that the Lord gave us as we said goodbye to our beloved daughter. I don't understand the peace he gave as we buried my dear mother, only a couple days later (Grandma Ewe died the day after Sunflower Girl).
I don't understand why He loved us so much, He sent His Son, Jesus, to take our punishment (death) so that we can be with Him in heaven one day. We can't earn that grace. It is a gift from God.
Oh me...I've rambled on again. I hear The Ram coming in with groceries. I tell you what, I'm a "kept woman." :-)
Hey, here's another favor you can do for me...if you haven't found your Christmas music yet, rustle around in that old cardboard box (or wherever) and see if you can't find it. It's Jesus' Birthday!!! Let's celebrate!
Gotta run...Y'all keep your wool dry...
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Look! I'm small enough to fit in my *maternity clothes* now!!!"
The Ewe, after losing 40 pounds, LOL!
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Ugh...The Flu
Hed-do Fweinds...
We all haf codes in our nodes. (sniff)
We've decided to stay Down South at least another day to recover. I'm feeling much, much better, but The Ram is really "under it." The children are doing very well--just some sniffles now.
Guess what...
I have feet!! AND I can now wash the bottom of my (squishy, soft ;-) belly without using a big, long loofah. LOL What an adventure. Wouldn't trade it for anything...
Ok...gotta run...er walk pretty slowly. When you lose that much weight that quickly, ye olde Balance takes a while to uh, re-balance. Tee hee!
Hey, do me a favor. Write a note today to someone you've lost touch with, Ok?
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
We all haf codes in our nodes. (sniff)
We've decided to stay Down South at least another day to recover. I'm feeling much, much better, but The Ram is really "under it." The children are doing very well--just some sniffles now.
Guess what...
I have feet!! AND I can now wash the bottom of my (squishy, soft ;-) belly without using a big, long loofah. LOL What an adventure. Wouldn't trade it for anything...
Ok...gotta run...er walk pretty slowly. When you lose that much weight that quickly, ye olde Balance takes a while to uh, re-balance. Tee hee!
Hey, do me a favor. Write a note today to someone you've lost touch with, Ok?
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Monday, December 04, 2006
Little Miss H's Grand Feat
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
I'm still mostly just resting in bed, but I just had to pop on here to brag on "The Latest Edition." L.M.H. is, I know, destined for greatness. (blush) Yes, indeed, at a mere 6 days old she shed her umbilical cord!!! Hurray!!! I'll admit to you that those cords have always grossed me out a bit. LOL With nearly every baby, The Ram has received a near-panic phone call at work, with me in tears over the state of New Baby's navel. Mercifully, this one fell off in record time. :-)
Ok...back to hibernating and kissing the baby.
BTW--keep praying for us...the flu's struck now. grrr...
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Hey look!!! Now I only look *9* months pregnant!!" The Ewe, one day after delivering the twins--and losing 36 pounds in 24 hours. LOL
I'm still mostly just resting in bed, but I just had to pop on here to brag on "The Latest Edition." L.M.H. is, I know, destined for greatness. (blush) Yes, indeed, at a mere 6 days old she shed her umbilical cord!!! Hurray!!! I'll admit to you that those cords have always grossed me out a bit. LOL With nearly every baby, The Ram has received a near-panic phone call at work, with me in tears over the state of New Baby's navel. Mercifully, this one fell off in record time. :-)
Ok...back to hibernating and kissing the baby.
BTW--keep praying for us...the flu's struck now. grrr...
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Hey look!!! Now I only look *9* months pregnant!!" The Ewe, one day after delivering the twins--and losing 36 pounds in 24 hours. LOL
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Wonderful Ministry
Hello all,
We had had some folks ask about a "favorite charity" to donate to in memory of Charity.
There are two:
www.alexandrashouse.com Look over this website. It is a very unique ministry--one that has blessed us during this time. We plan to do what we can to promote it in any way.
Also, consider your local crisis pregnancy/abortion alternative center. I learned that most babies diagnosed prenatally with spina bifida (Charity's initial diagnosis)are aborted. I will tell you, though we only had her a couple hours, I wouldn't trade those precious moments for anything in the world. That time was worth every minute of my head hung over the toilet, every groan I uttered while trying to turn over in bed there at the end, every contraction that nearly pushed me over the edge, every discomfort I've experienced over the last 9 months. What joys I would have missed out on if I'd never known Charity Promise.
Ok...back to bed. Love you guys!
The Ewe
We had had some folks ask about a "favorite charity" to donate to in memory of Charity.
There are two:
www.alexandrashouse.com Look over this website. It is a very unique ministry--one that has blessed us during this time. We plan to do what we can to promote it in any way.
Also, consider your local crisis pregnancy/abortion alternative center. I learned that most babies diagnosed prenatally with spina bifida (Charity's initial diagnosis)are aborted. I will tell you, though we only had her a couple hours, I wouldn't trade those precious moments for anything in the world. That time was worth every minute of my head hung over the toilet, every groan I uttered while trying to turn over in bed there at the end, every contraction that nearly pushed me over the edge, every discomfort I've experienced over the last 9 months. What joys I would have missed out on if I'd never known Charity Promise.
Ok...back to bed. Love you guys!
The Ewe
Friday, December 01, 2006
Very Quick Update
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
The Ewe has had quite a week, and I need to take to bed...but I wanted to give you a nutshell version of the week:
Sunday, Nov. 26: Hannah Ruth was born at 2:05 p.m. weighing 8lbs 12oz
Charity Promise was born at 3:05 p.m. weighing 9lbs 3oz
Charity Promise went to Jesus' arms around 5:30 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 27: The Ewe's Mama passed on to Jesus' arms (she had Alzheimer's and many other physical problems)
Tuesday, Nov. 28: We had a small memorial service for Charity
Thursday, Nov.30: Ewe's Mama's funeral
Today, Friday, Dec 1: Ewe and Flock arrive at GrandRams' for a few days of rest and recovery.
I will post many more details as rest allows. :-)
Many blessings,
The Ewe
P.S. Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe has had quite a week, and I need to take to bed...but I wanted to give you a nutshell version of the week:
Sunday, Nov. 26: Hannah Ruth was born at 2:05 p.m. weighing 8lbs 12oz
Charity Promise was born at 3:05 p.m. weighing 9lbs 3oz
Charity Promise went to Jesus' arms around 5:30 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 27: The Ewe's Mama passed on to Jesus' arms (she had Alzheimer's and many other physical problems)
Tuesday, Nov. 28: We had a small memorial service for Charity
Thursday, Nov.30: Ewe's Mama's funeral
Today, Friday, Dec 1: Ewe and Flock arrive at GrandRams' for a few days of rest and recovery.
I will post many more details as rest allows. :-)
Many blessings,
The Ewe
P.S. Y'all keep your wool dry!
Saturday, November 25, 2006
:)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
this is lioness. In the words of Tater Tot "baby sisys gona pop out and walk!" but not to soon,the ewe is in the early labor. please pray for them.
Lioness
Lioness
Monday, November 20, 2006
My (Ice) Water Broke!!!!
Hello, F.O.T.E.s!
Well, The Ewe is hanging in here...and her belly is hanging down! LOL This fact has provided a few situations that were either funny, or embarrassing or both. Mainly both--I usually choose to "Find the Funny," as I believe the Bible when it says, "A merry heart does good, like medicine." :-)
Church was very nice yesterday, though we missed The Ram. (Worship always serves to make us really miss The Ram, when we're apart.) I did have a moment of panic, when it seemed either I or the babies could fit through the gap between pews, but not the whole group. With a little maneuvering, I got all 3 of us in. LOL Last week, it was a matter of my asking to be moved to a table, instead of a booth, at a restaurant. There was no amount of maneuvering that was getting me into that tight squeeze! LOL
Then, last night...my favorite Silly Story of Pregnancy...
I had drunk a drink while sitting in a recliner. When the drink was gone, I wasn't ready to get up yet, and at this girth, I don't take "Getting Up" lightly. ;-) So, I set the cup of ice kind of between my thigh and the underside of my belly, and promptly forgot about it.
Thirty minutes later, I was ready to get up. I leaned forward to heave myself up, and suddenly, water started pouring onto my feet!!! Could my water have broken?!?! Uh, no...if it had, there was a problem...as there was ICE in it, LOL!!!
I sat there, dumbfounded, with ice and water pouring onto my feet, thinking, "WHERE is that COMING FROM?!?!" When I looked down, I couldn't see the cup--my belly had hidden it, LOL. I reached down and felt it and suddenly remembered that I'd set it there. I called for Lovable to come help me stem the tide and clean up. We got a very hearty laugh about that.
Well, I'm going to run...er..walk slowly. Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Mini-hands make light work." The Ram, borrowing an Amish saying to apply to our little ones. :-)
Well, The Ewe is hanging in here...and her belly is hanging down! LOL This fact has provided a few situations that were either funny, or embarrassing or both. Mainly both--I usually choose to "Find the Funny," as I believe the Bible when it says, "A merry heart does good, like medicine." :-)
Church was very nice yesterday, though we missed The Ram. (Worship always serves to make us really miss The Ram, when we're apart.) I did have a moment of panic, when it seemed either I or the babies could fit through the gap between pews, but not the whole group. With a little maneuvering, I got all 3 of us in. LOL Last week, it was a matter of my asking to be moved to a table, instead of a booth, at a restaurant. There was no amount of maneuvering that was getting me into that tight squeeze! LOL
Then, last night...my favorite Silly Story of Pregnancy...
I had drunk a drink while sitting in a recliner. When the drink was gone, I wasn't ready to get up yet, and at this girth, I don't take "Getting Up" lightly. ;-) So, I set the cup of ice kind of between my thigh and the underside of my belly, and promptly forgot about it.
Thirty minutes later, I was ready to get up. I leaned forward to heave myself up, and suddenly, water started pouring onto my feet!!! Could my water have broken?!?! Uh, no...if it had, there was a problem...as there was ICE in it, LOL!!!
I sat there, dumbfounded, with ice and water pouring onto my feet, thinking, "WHERE is that COMING FROM?!?!" When I looked down, I couldn't see the cup--my belly had hidden it, LOL. I reached down and felt it and suddenly remembered that I'd set it there. I called for Lovable to come help me stem the tide and clean up. We got a very hearty laugh about that.
Well, I'm going to run...er..walk slowly. Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Mini-hands make light work." The Ram, borrowing an Amish saying to apply to our little ones. :-)
Monday, November 13, 2006
Babies or No Babies???
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
I know some of you are wondering, "Did The Ewe have the Lambs on Veteran's Day??" LOL Nah...No babies yet. I did have a prenatal checkup that day. When we first got there, my blood pressure was up--we call it Traffic Induced Hypertension. By the end of my checkup, though, it had come back down to "acceptable." Also, my iron level was up, which was great. It had been way too low and I'd been strenuously trying to raise it. It was good to know all the extra stuff I've been doing is paying off. :-)
Really, that's about all the news there is...I am having "Braxton-Hicks" contractions, but nothing strong/regular enough to produce babies. Y'all can pray for me that my body acts as it should and actually goes into labor. That's only happened once--our first baby, Lioness. I've seen 3 doctors, trying to figure out what hormone strangeness keeps me from starting labor, but none of them have discovered the problem. This time, I'm praying the increased hormones of the twin pregnancy will make a difference.
Well, the Lambies are drawing Nordic Sumo Bunnies and I'm very interested to see them...so...I'm going to sign off for now and update as The Situation unfolds.
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "I am a Nordic Sumo Bunny." --body-less computer voice, animating Lioness' cartoon
I know some of you are wondering, "Did The Ewe have the Lambs on Veteran's Day??" LOL Nah...No babies yet. I did have a prenatal checkup that day. When we first got there, my blood pressure was up--we call it Traffic Induced Hypertension. By the end of my checkup, though, it had come back down to "acceptable." Also, my iron level was up, which was great. It had been way too low and I'd been strenuously trying to raise it. It was good to know all the extra stuff I've been doing is paying off. :-)
Really, that's about all the news there is...I am having "Braxton-Hicks" contractions, but nothing strong/regular enough to produce babies. Y'all can pray for me that my body acts as it should and actually goes into labor. That's only happened once--our first baby, Lioness. I've seen 3 doctors, trying to figure out what hormone strangeness keeps me from starting labor, but none of them have discovered the problem. This time, I'm praying the increased hormones of the twin pregnancy will make a difference.
Well, the Lambies are drawing Nordic Sumo Bunnies and I'm very interested to see them...so...I'm going to sign off for now and update as The Situation unfolds.
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "I am a Nordic Sumo Bunny." --body-less computer voice, animating Lioness' cartoon
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Babies Update
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s,
Well, we're settled in here Down South. :-)
Monday evening, we had a prenatal appointment and then ultrasound. Baby A weighs 8 pounds already! We suspect Lil B weighs about the same, but the sonographer couldn't really do his calculations because of the severe hydrocephalus. This Sonographer Extraordinaire was able to find the fissure in her skull that has caused the encephalocele. Sadly, it appeared to me that her brain deformity has actually worsened.
Baby A is hale and hearty. :-) Her head is low and ready to go. We can hardly wait to get our hands on her and her sis.
I'm doing well. Praying that labor starts before long.
Well, I'm going to waddle off for now--I'll try to keep you informed. Thanks for all the prayers!
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Well, we're settled in here Down South. :-)
Monday evening, we had a prenatal appointment and then ultrasound. Baby A weighs 8 pounds already! We suspect Lil B weighs about the same, but the sonographer couldn't really do his calculations because of the severe hydrocephalus. This Sonographer Extraordinaire was able to find the fissure in her skull that has caused the encephalocele. Sadly, it appeared to me that her brain deformity has actually worsened.
Baby A is hale and hearty. :-) Her head is low and ready to go. We can hardly wait to get our hands on her and her sis.
I'm doing well. Praying that labor starts before long.
Well, I'm going to waddle off for now--I'll try to keep you informed. Thanks for all the prayers!
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Friday, November 03, 2006
Exciting Times
Hello, F.O.T.E.'s!
Well, The Ewe would be kicking up her heels today--if she could, LOL! Guess I'll just have to settle for a "siss, boom BAAAAH!!" :-)
GrandRamama woke me up this morning to let me know that our new lil' niece had been born. Yay!!! We're told The Ram's sis did a fantastic job of giving birth and her husband was a terrific coach! The RamFam spent some time on our knees last night, beseeching the Father on behalf of the B. family. The Lord is good. Sigh...
It's been funny this year--a bunch of ladies close to me were pregnant. My due date--Nov. 29--was the last of the long line of due dates. Seemed like *everyone* was having her baby, but Nov. never got any closer. LOL Well, my turn's coming now. I'm 36 1/2 weeks. The Lambies and I will move our Base of Operation Down South this weekend, to be nearer our beloved midwife. Emotions for me are mixed, a bit, as we don't know exactly what we're facing. Still, peace reigns.
I'll update from the Southland...
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Baby M has been born...At HOME!" --The GrandRamama
Well, The Ewe would be kicking up her heels today--if she could, LOL! Guess I'll just have to settle for a "siss, boom BAAAAH!!" :-)
GrandRamama woke me up this morning to let me know that our new lil' niece had been born. Yay!!! We're told The Ram's sis did a fantastic job of giving birth and her husband was a terrific coach! The RamFam spent some time on our knees last night, beseeching the Father on behalf of the B. family. The Lord is good. Sigh...
It's been funny this year--a bunch of ladies close to me were pregnant. My due date--Nov. 29--was the last of the long line of due dates. Seemed like *everyone* was having her baby, but Nov. never got any closer. LOL Well, my turn's coming now. I'm 36 1/2 weeks. The Lambies and I will move our Base of Operation Down South this weekend, to be nearer our beloved midwife. Emotions for me are mixed, a bit, as we don't know exactly what we're facing. Still, peace reigns.
I'll update from the Southland...
Y'all keep your wool dry!
The Ewe
Quote of the Day: "Baby M has been born...At HOME!" --The GrandRamama
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