Seasons

Seeing the title and entering into more Spring-like weather you may think that I am referring to weather seasons.  I'm not.

I have been thinking about this topic for a while now. 

I am a lifer.  When I make a friend I feel like they are (or should be) a friend for life.  It takes me a bit longer than many to open up to people.  I guard myself.  I have security issues and don't want to get hurt and don't want people to not like me.  I am shy and easily intimidated.  It's silly, but it is what it is.

When I open up enough to have a friendship with more than the "Hi how are you?/Good, how are you?" conversations then I probably consider you a friend.  The more communication we have and the more time we spend together, the closer I feel to to you.  Once we get to the friend stage it is near impossible for someone to no longer be a friend, in my eyes. 

I have a hard time meeting new people and just feel awkward, but I greatly appreciate the friendships that have formed after so many meetings. Over the years God has brought some really phenomenal people into my life, and I am so thankful!

Life happens.  Just as seasons happen.  Sometimes I try too hard to hold on to relationships that perhaps were only meant to be for a certain season.  The relationship can die out or fizzle. This is hard for me because, as I said, I am a lifer. 

I am not intending this to mean that I am actively trying to make any of my friendships fizzle out.  It's more for those I feel have moved on to a new season and I am in denial. :) 

Seasons of life is something I need to accept. I need to let go of those who are now in a new season as well, but it is never willingly on my end.

Thankfulness:
1. The school bus driver
2. Green grass
3. Sports that bring families/friends together
4. Garden Claw that aided me in yard work this week
5. Rhubarb

Verse to Chew on:
May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalms 19:14

He's not Stumped

I have been tagging along life with some pretty amazing family and friends. 

Lately, I have been hearing of some pretty severe situations occurring in the lives of some close friends.  My heart aches for them.  I want to do something.  Anything. I want to help. I want to offer encouraging words. I want to be a concerned friend.  I am a concerned friend.

I know that each person who stumbles across this message has their own trials they are facing. And, I am sure we all know someone who is facing heartache.

The message I want to share today is simple.  It was some words passed along by my father-in-law who has no idea of the situations my dear friends are facing.  But the words are appropriate.

Was Jesus ever in a situation in which He was stumped? Was He ever in a situation He couldn’t handle? Even the cross was part of His plan. Your situation doesn’t stump Him either. Give the situation over to God and lean on Him. 

On the flip side of these trials and tragedies, illnesses and pain, I stand in awe.  I am in awe of how God works.

I am writing this next part hoping that it comes across with sensitivity to you yet praise to God.

As I was praying with some friends tonight I kept thinking, who am I and who is my family that we should be blessed in so many ways and for so many generations?  Our trials seems so minimal in comparison to massive grievances of those dear friends surrounding me.

I pray with heartfelt sincerity and fervor for my troubled friends and their families, and I thank God with my undeserving being for abundant blessings.

Thankfulness:
1. Friends I can be real with
2. A husband who loves me unconditionally
3. The dustbuster to clean up little messes
4. Comfort
5. Grace

Verse to chew on:
Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.

Censor and Joy

Some days I can't control my tongue.  I say things I wish I did not say, and even worse, I say things that hurt people and I don't even know what I have done.  Words just come out.  Sentences.  Paragraphs. Loud volume that is uncalled for.  It explodes and I can not take it back and I feel deep regret.  Once something is said, it can never be taken back.  You can apologise and plead jest, but it is all about the heart behind the words.

If my heart is in a kind state, those words, sentences and paragraphs are much less frequent. 

If I am feeling anger, self-pity or wallow in ridiculous expectations, you can guarantee those words spew out rapidly.  And it is usually to those I love most.

I don't say "bad" words.  I say hurtful words.  But, is there really a difference?

I was reminded of this tonight.  I am in a "kind state" so it was not with me.  Indeed it is easier to see faults in other people before myself.  I was reading through some social media posts and was embarrassed at what I was reading in my news feed.  I was thinking, I wish I could censor what I am reading to only see things that are beneficial...or at very minimum, things that are neutral on the scale of "good and bad". 

I wish there was a censor that blocked out bad posts on Facebook, but I wish even more that I had a tighter censor on my thoughts and words that come out of my mouth.  I can not control what others do and say, but I have full control of my own voiced thoughts and often what I am viewing.

I have been thinking about the relationship between joy and what I intake.  If I am seeing "garbage" on my news feed, and I am hearing junk on tv that is not glorifying to God, does that correlate to my mental state of joyfulness?  I think it does.  The more good that goes in, the more good comes out.  Seems like a simple equation to me.

So, my conclusion, be VERY aware of intake and censor even closer what comes out of my mouth. Keep a joy flickering (or better yet, burning!)  in my heart and don't let it be quenched by garbage, but instead ignighted with God-honoring intakes.

Thankfulness:
1. A voice to speak
2. Eyes to see
3. A safe home
4. A dishwasher to wash my dishes
5. Forgiveness

Verse to chew on:
James 3:5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 

Perspective

Snow.  In March.  Just when us Wisconsinites thought Spring should soon approach.  How do YOU feel about snow???

In years past I have not been thrilled with snow storms and the added blanket of white to the frozen earth.  I had wished away the winter to bring the warm weather.

But not this year.  I am not sure where the mental shift came from but I am more excited than ever to see more snow on this beautiful snow day! 

It is such a blessing to see the kids excitement of playing in the winter wonderland on their new snow boards and even to see Carlee, our dog, frolicking in the snow.  And, what a great blessing that I can have another day home with my boys when they are usually in school! The better attitude I have about the snow, the more excited the kids are to play in it. 

Another perspective I have taken to is that there is beauty in each season and it won't be long until each season passes.  With each season pass, my boys get older.  I know that seems obvious but it is in looking back at photos from years ago that I realize how fast time goes and how much they have grown.  It seems so cliche to say that time goes fast, but seriously...time goes fast! Before I know it my boys may not want to go play in the snow, or they will feel too old to want to enjoy time with their mom. 

So my goal: enjoy each day as it comes and with what it brings.  If there is snow falling, lets play in that snow and make fun memories!  Take a few pictures, but don't take so many that you are behind the camera and miss the actual interaction. 

On a semi-random side note but also of great importance: When I look outside, the pure whiteness seems almost blinding it is so bright.  God says he will wash away our sins and make us white as snow!  What a comforting thought to know that all my past mistakes are gone and forgiven, thanks to Jesus paying the ultimate price for me, while I was still a sinner.  He makes me white as the blinding snow!   

Thankfulness:
1. Freshly falling snow in March
2. The mailman diligently trudging through the snow storm
3. Shovels
4. Zack and Owen's laughter
5. Ears to hear

Verse to chew on:
Isaiah 1:18  "Come now, let us reason together," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.

Conflictions

I have been thinking about different topics I want to write about and I have yet to make formulated presentations of these thoughts...until today!  So after several months of neglecting blog writing, I have decided to make some fresh attempts.

One issue that I have been thinking about is health.  It is recommended to stay active to stay fit and in shape.  It is recommended to eat healthy foods and skip the junk.   Right?

My problem:  Each item that I listed does not have a definite answer.  Here is what I mean.  If someone tells you to eat healthy, what do you eat?  I have been programed to think that whole wheat bread is more nutritious than white bread, and that all fruit is good for you and any veggies are healthy and adequate for consumption.  Does that sound reasonable?

Here is where it starts to get tricky.  You know those side bars of advertising you see while browsing on the net?  One of them lured me in with the title of "5 Foods You Should Never Eat".  I read through the list.  Top on the list was whole wheat bread.  Next Bananas. I know there were 3 more but I can not remember the others.  I was frustrated. 

It is recommended to stay active to stay in shape so your body will be healthy.  I joined a gym.  I was looking up some workout routines and up pops some headlines in my search engine results that essentially encouraged only 3 days a week of exercising and saying that anything more than that is too much.  I was doing 5 days a week and feeling pretty good.  According to this article if you go too often your body will get too fatigued and won't respond to your workouts any longer.

There is so much conflicting advice "out there".  I am learning that I need to do what is best for my body and that I can find conflicting advice that can support any view or stance I choose to take.  The Internet is not the ultimate answer.

I know what IS the ultimate answer.  And right now it is opened to Exodus 33.  If you are expecting me to reveal any health tips in Exodus, change your expectation.  :)  Just a few chapter back, God has feed the Israelites manna for 40 years.  They are God's chosen people and they were not eating whole wheat bread or bananas. God wants us to take care of our body by eating nutritious food in moderation. 

If you are looking for answers solely on the Internet for problems or questions, you may want to change your source to the one that does not conflict with itself.  And if you think it does conflict with itself, then dive in to the content and don't blindly pull verses out of context as that issue is far too common.

I am going to start a new format in my blogs and list 5 things I am thankful for toward the end. 

Thankfulness:
1. The snowplows and drivers who work hard for us to safely traverse the roads
2. The fruit bowl sitting across the table from me that has nutritious foods to help keep me healthy
3. The driver's Ed car that just passed my house-it reminds me of my Grandad teaching me to drive
4. The cozy warm sweatshirt I am wearing that Dan gave me for Christmas-its keeps me warm and reminds me of his protection and care for me
5. Blinds-they keep the darkness out and let the light in and aide in a sense of security

Verse to chew on:
Deut 26:11 ...you shall rejoice in all the good which the Lord your God has given you and your household.

A Great Roadtrip Adventure

A late night recall of our road trip to New Hampshire...

This trip was full of fun and friends!  We started out early Monday morning and made it to our pre-planned destination of Streetsboro, OH.  All is uneventful, in a good way so far.

Tuesday we made decent time getting to NY, but then we hit traffic.  When I say traffic, I don't mean traffic that slows you down for a couple minutes.  I mean traffic that forces 8 lanes down to 2 to cross the Lincoln tunnel in NYC during rush hour going 2.5 miles in 3 hours with 2 children who need to go to the bathroom.  Yeah, I know you envy that section of the journey!

We arrived at our hotel in Long Island City, NY only to find out that there is limited parking.  And again, by limited parking I am referring to 16 parking spaces for 2 buildings that are each 10 floors high.  Hmmm...and did I mention I have a large SUV? In down town NYC?  Our vehicle was almost unscathed. The concierge working at the hotel told me there was one spot left to park in the parking garage.  I entered. Well, let me take that back.  I attempted to round the corner into the garage and it was so tight that I could not make it.  It scraped the rear fender. Booo for the fresh concrete scrape on my Enclave.  OK, so I was in the parking garage and I get to "the one spot" and it is not even close to being wide enough for my vehicle and I can not turn around to get out of the garage.  This got ridiculous.  I had to back out.  I am not happy.  Not only is the spot unusable, I now have been driving since 7:30 am with the kids, they just sat through the 3 hours of moving slower than a snail and now there is no where to park.  Grr.  I stopped and said a prayer of desperation.  "God, please help me to find a place to park. I am so frustrated."
I drove around the block.  I saw a spot on the street to park.  But, it made me so nervous (this was not the best area to hang out in) that after a few more frustrated pleas to God, I left that spot and circled back to the hotel with the anticipation that God would find me a spot (one of 16 for the 2 hotel buildings...a minor miracle!).  Well, I entered the surface lot and there was one free spot!  And, I could actually fit my vehicle in the spot.  Thanking God, I took the spot.  It was so tight I let the kids out before I pulled in, then crawled out the hatch.  But, we made it!  So we gather our stuff that we need for the night and we head to the elevator to go up to our room and who do we see, but my fabulous friend Alyssa, her mom and her son who we were meeting in NYC!  It was such perfect timing!  Bless her heart, I was so frustrated I could hardly talk but she was so gracious in taking care of us to get us settled and calmed down.

OK, next day.  Alyssa and I had not seen each other for 10 years and we planned to have the day together to hang out and catch up.  It was such a treat to see her, I don't think it really mattered what we did.  However, we were able to take in some fun sights.  One of our favorite was the Statue of Liberty.

We were also able to take in some obligatory hot dogs from a street vendor.  They were actually pretty good. :)

Then after lots of walking we (mostly Alyssa) navigated the subway system and found our way to Central Park.  Zack and Owen enjoyed playing with Noah, their new friend.

Then it was about time to call it a day.  We headed back to the hotel and ordered delivery.  It was the best delivery I have ever had!

The next morning we continued our journey to Watch Hill, RI.  Along the way we needed to pull off for potty breaks.  We saw this car when we stopped. 

After taking the pictures of the car I noticed there was a guy sitting in the driver's seat.  Oops. Hope he does not mind being featured in my blog. :)

We continued on and made it to Watch Hill.  It was a great afternoon of waves and sand.

The last thing we were able to do in RI was ride the world's oldest carousel.  The kids loved it! (even though Owen's face does not look like he was enjoying himself, he talked about it for days!)

On the road again...

Next we made it to Taunton, MA to see another great friend, Katie and her family.   Katie, thanks for the pic!  (I like that Apollo snuck in there too!)  Zack and Owen enjoyed seeing some more kids on the trip.  They liked that they knew who they were before we got there too.

After a night in Taunton with such a gracious host, we headed up to our final destination of Campton, NH to see my parents.  We enjoyed almost a week with them.  During our stay I got to see some of my best middle school friends!  We reminisced on the playground that we used to play on but this time it was our kids playing.  How fun! 
Tracy and Penny, it had been way too long! Can't wait til the next rendezvous!

I also got to see another dear friend, Melanie whom I grew up with.  I again wish I had taken a pic of us too for memory sake.

I was able to visit with my grandma in Littleton as well.  These moments are treasured but bittersweet.  I LOVE seeing her, but she has the terrible disease of Dementia and no longer remembers who I am.  I still have such fond memories of my sweet grandma and am so thankful for the many years I had growing up so close to her and the impact she had on me.

During our free time in NH we enjoyed hours at the pool.  Everyone went in the water...even my mom!  (Although not pictured here, Dad was in the pool too.)

We had such a fabulous trip of seeing friends and family.  We even were blessed to see a gorgeous New Hampshire sunset one of the last days there. 

Our trip home was not quite as fabulous as the whole adventure.  We left early Thursday morning in hopes to get a good start on the 20 hour drive home.  All was good until Thursday night.  We found a hotel in Elyria, Ohio and were just getting settled in and Owen was sick.  Poor guy.  It seemed to come out of no where.  I figured that was it and he was doing better.  Nope.  Friday morning we packed up and ate breakfast.  We just got in the car to head home and before I had even closed my door Owen was sick again.  It was not a fun time.  I found the housekeeper and got some towels and disinfectant spray and cleaned as best I could with what I had (and did I mention it was raining out?) but the smell was awful and Owen was feeling miserable.  After we got on the road again he was sick several more times.  I never have enjoyed Chicago traffic but it is even worse when there is a sick child.  He did perfect aiming in a bag, at least.  Poor guy. 
It was a glorious moment pulling into our garage and getting out of the car for all of us when we returned home.  And, our poor car dealership down the road did a fantastic job detailing our car. Thanks Symdon. :)

So there you have it.  The adventures of roadtripping with me.  I think Dan may have been wise to stay home with the dog, but I had fun.

8 Years Ago...

Today is Zack's birthday.  I spent this morning looking back at our pictures from when he was born.  This was a monumental and eventful time in our life for several reasons.
Here is a recap of our major events in 2004...
(While reading the first several events, keep in mind that I was due May 8th)

March 26th Dan and I moved to a new Apartment in Appleton, WI.  We were excited to have a washer and dryer for our soon to be family of 3!

April 7th We were both working for Humana Insurance when Dan came down to my desk in agony.  His lung had collapsed at work so I frantically rushed him 30 minutes away to our hospital in Appleton where he underwent 3 surgeries and stayed in the hospital for several days.  I was a wreck with terrible thoughts and HIGH emotions.

April 23rd is my last day working but not without a crazy ending.  Leaving 2 weeks before I was due was essentially like quitting and I lost all of my financial maternity benefits.  I did not care.  I was DONE. 

Sometime around May 3rd Dan gets a call from Epic offering him a job as a Computer Programmer!  I looked for the picture but could not find it of Dan's reaction after the call...it was one of his most animated moments ever as he was dancing around the living room! Oh happy day!  He no longer needed to work at Humana in the call center.

May 8th comes...and goes...no baby yet.

May 13th I am at the grocery store and a random middle aged gentleman asks me, "When are you going to have that baby?" 
My response: "The doctors said 5 days ago."  He chuckled. 

May 15th A week overdue.

Getting ready to go!  I had to be there by 7:00 (to be induced) which was no problem at all!  I did not sleep much at all because I was so excited!

Heading out the door to go have a baby!

               

We got things started at 8:30 and at 1:30...Zackariah Amos Fawcett made his debut!

We were so thrilled to have our son! 

(Zacky at 3 days old)

May 20th We travel down to Madison and endure a 13 hour day of house hunting.  Zack, being only 5 days old, did fantastic.  But, let me tell you...that was not a fun day for this new mamma!  We put an offer in on what we felt was the best option of what we saw.

May 22nd We found out we did not get the house and set up another day to go house hunting in Madison. Yuck. (Oh, and remember we just moved 2 months ago!)

June 7th Dan starts work at Epic.  For the next 3 weeks we live in Extended Stay...a hotel room.  A one room hotel room.  With a newborn.  Who wakes up every 2 hours or less. 

June 25th We closed on our first house and was it ever a joyous occasion!  Not only to own our first house, but to get out of that hotel room after 3 weeks! 

These major events, Dan's collapsed lung, having a baby, Dan and I each starting a new job (mine was being a mommy!), and buying a house made for quite an adventurous couple months. 

And now, 8 years later we still know and feel God's awesome blessing on our family.   

Dan is healed with limited restrictions.

He is still working for Epic.

We have our second home in the school district that is perfect for our boys.

And, Zack, he continues to grow in wisdom and stature. 

 What a great morning reminiscing 8 years ago.  God has surpassed my expectations for our family in every area possible.

I'm thankful for so many blessings.  Today, I'm especially thankful for my newly turned 8 year old (and Dan and Owen too!).    I am beyond blessed.



Bulging with Challenges

I've been bulging with challenges to myself in the last several months.  I want to better myself in so many areas and there are multiple pockets of my life that are surfacing that I want to improve.  Here are 5 goals (although there are more!) I have for myself:

1. I had never read my Bible from cover to cover.  I've read chapters and books at a time but never front to back.  I started in February and want to finish before school is out for the summer.  I hope I'll make it. There are so many things that I want to stop and study to learn more about as I am going, but I feel God is calling me to just read through and then go back after I finish. 

2. I want to be more bold and purposeful in creating and improving upon friendships.  I use the excuse of being shy and not overly outgoing.  This brings me out of my comfort zone, but all for good purpose.  People and relationships are more valuable than anything else.

3. I have been impacted by the simple line in 1 Cor 13, Love does not boast.  I think upon this phrase often while trying to be a better listener than talker.  It is easy to let insecurities take over and feel the need to live life to a monetary fullness.  But, that leaves emptiness... in your pocket and in relationships.

4. I want to be a wife of noble character.  This takes a change of focus.  I need to be more considerate and understanding toward my husbands work pressures and free time.  The good news...I want all the time I can with him!

5. I want to be a Mom that the kids remember as loving them and Dan more than anything else in the world.  That challenges me to be more hands on and physically focused toward them.

 I read a story that impacted me...

Son: Mom (from a different room)
Mom: Yes?
Son: Mom (still in a different room)
Mom: Yes?
Son: Mom
Mom: What? I am listening to you.
Son: You can hear me but you are not listening with your eyes.

Ouch.  I'm guilty of that. 

I am sure that everyone has their list of challenges as I do.  Perhaps you can not relate to some of mine, and perhaps I have brought new challenges to you through writing mine.  Whatever the case, God will reveal things to you as you are ready.  Be sure you are listening.  Then, be sure you are acting.

How Do You Come?

How do you come to God?

This is a question that has surfaced many times over the past month.  I have been reading some excellent books and have been diving a bit deeper and longer in my walk with the Lord. 

My question has created a stirring in me.  I like to think that I come to God in prayer just as He asks us to do.  In reality, my thoughts are often off.  I come to Him in prayer saying "Please help me with such and such" and "please help so and so in a particular way" etc...but it is like reading or speaking a laundry list of my thoughts to God. 

I don't think that is what He means when He asks us to bring everything to Him in prayer.  He wants us to pray in faith.  He wants us to fully anticipate an answer and not just speak out of obligation.  He wants us to rip free of our traditional coined prayers and put some heart into it. Put some faith into it.

Are you a type to pray fervently and come to God with a deep faith that He'll answer your request, or are you, like me, the type that can fall into the pit of repetition and obligation?  Are your dinner prayers or bed time prayers the same thing each day?  A task of something to check off your list for the day?

Why do we have God in a box?  Why do we think that we can fool or trick Him by doing our prayerful duty of reciting our lists?  God is so much greater than that.  God wants us to pray with a deep faith AND He wants to answer those prayers! (Although it is not always how we see it best).

I heard about the famous Corrie ten Boon.  She often spoke to crowds.  While she was speaking, she would look down most of the time.  While she was looking down, she was working on needlepoint. She would lift up her creation at the close of her talk and how the audience the back of the piece.  Of course it looked like a jumbled mess of strings that had no rhyme or reason.  That is how we may see God working in our life.  We see the strings that do not go in a sensible order.  BUT, when she revealed the other side of the creation, it was a beautiful piece of art just perfectly crafted into a beautiful piece of work. That is how God works.  We see the jumbled mess, while he is working miracles and creating masterpieces. 

We serve a mighty God who does great work in our life.  He knows what He is doing.  We need to pray with a faith that can move mountains so we can see the mighty work He is doing in and through us. 

I'd like to challenge you to consider how you are praying.  If you are praying with token prayers out of obligation, realize that is not what He asks of us.  We are talking to the almighty creator of the Heavens and Earth.  Don't forget His place.  And, He loves you and made you in His image.  Don't undermine His love for you.  He will sustain you and care for you, because you are precious in His sight.  Keep seeking after Him.

Jamaican Adventure

"Whatever is illegal in the US is illegal in Jamaica."  This was what we were told right before we ported during our cruise to Jamaica.  You may laugh...but here's my story.

After a fun time zip lining and riding a Jamaican bobsled (cause you just have to do that if you are in Jamaica right?!) we eventually caught a shuttle back to a tourist shopping area.  By eventually I mean that they have no sense of time.  We were completely full and loaded on the shuttle and the driver decides that it is time to eat lunch so our full shuttle of about 25 people watch our driver exit the bus, sit down with some buddies and leisurely eat his sandwich.

OK, so we are now dropped off at the shopping area.  A complete tourist trap.  We like those, for a little while...you know, long enough to peek at some obligatory souvenirs.  So we decide to explore a bit and go find something to eat for lunch.  We walked out of the shopping area and went right.  We walked past tons of little shops full of everything you could think of.  They were not the most presentable either as the poverty level in Jamaica is very high.  So, their shops represented that well.  At the entrance to each shop there was a salesperson asking us to come into their shop.  We politely ignored most of them.  After walking a while an only recognizing KFC we decided to seek out some sort of Jamaican cuisine. 

We noticed a abnormally clean white building called "The Castle" and it did not look sketchy. So, we decided to turn around and walk back to that place to see about getting some lunch.  We get to it and there is a guy outside asking if we want to come inside.

We walk inside and he asks what he can help us with. 
Dan: We are looking for some lunch.
Guy: Oh, I have food here.
Dan: OK
Guy: Follow me. 

We walk into the nice white building.  There is NO ONE in there.  OK, so small red flag for us as we enter a completely empty building.

Guy: Come on up stairs.
Dan: OK

We walk up the stairs thinking that is where the restaurant is.
It is also completely empty of people but has several tables and chairs set up. (More red flags but it almost seems too late to turn around).

Guy: So, what can I get you today?
Dan: Some lunch.
Guy: So, uhhh, would you like some scrabbled eggs and toast?
Dan: No thanks.  We were looking for lunch.
Guy: Oh, OK.  So like, uhhh, some rice and peas and chicken?
Dan: (shrugging his shoulders) Uhh, sure.
Guy: OK, sit down.
(We sit)
Guy: Oh, uhhh, would you like to sit by the pool?
Dan: Uhh, sure.
(We move over to sit on the balcony overlooking the pool...also where no one was).
Guy: What would you like to drink.
Kirsten: Water?
Guy: Sure, I be right back.

So the friendly Jamaican guy returns moments later with a bottle of water and pours it into some glasses.  We smile and say "Thank you."

Guy: I be back in a few minutes with you food. It takes a few minutes to cook it
Kirsten: (nodding) OK.

(So at this point we have no idea what we have gotten ourselves in to.  There were not any menus and no one else there to see what they were eating.)

About 10 minutes later the guy returns with 2 huge plates.

Sure enough we had rice and chicken (no peas but it was replaced with coleslaw). 

Now wouldn't you know, this was the best meal we had the whole vacation trip!  The chicken was juicy and tender and not spicy and the rice was delicious with some unique spices.  I have no idea what type of seasoning they used for either of the items, but it was yummy!

OK, so we are sitting and eating our delicious meal and we think...hmmm, how much is this going to cost us. (Remember there were no menus to indicate price)

After we finish we get our check.  The meals were $11.95 per plate and the water is $3.  So my calculations made that be just under $28.  The itemized bill looks like this:

2 chicken's $11.95
1 water $3.00
Total: $38

Wait a second there...that's either (A) bad math or (B) cheating the Americans.  I am opting for option B.  But, our justification, it was so good, we'd pay that much in America.  So we pay and don't complain.

As we get up to leave the guy walks us out.
Guy: How was your meal?
Dan: Fantastic.  It was really good!
Guy: Is there anything else I can help you with?  You need a place to stay?
Dan: No thanks.
Guy: (What Dan hears anyway) Do you like Bob Marley?
Dan: (Shrugging his shoulders), Yeah, sure.
Guy: (His eyes lit up really big), YOU DO?!?! You want some weed?
Dan: Oh, uhh, no thanks.
Guy: You sure?
Dan: No thanks.

After a few more steps the guy goes back to his "White Castle". Two more steps a friendly Jamaican guy (guy #2) asks:
Guy #2: Do you want to buy a cd of Jamaican music?
Dan: No thanks.
Guy: Do you want some Bob Marley smokes?
Dan: No thanks.

So we keep walking, heading toward our cruise ship.  Up approaches another guy (guy #3).

Guy #3: What are you doing?
Dan: Just walking.
Guy #3: Where you going?
Dan : This way.
Guy #3: Well, where are you going?
Dan: This way.
Guy #3: What are you doing?
Dan: Just looking at shops.
Guy #3: I have a shop. You want to come to my shop?
Dan: No thanks.
Guy #3: Well, what are you doing then?
Dan: Just looking at shops.
Guy #3: Well, I have a shop.  Come to my shop.
Dan: No thanks.
Guy #3: I really do have a shop.
Dan: I believe you.
Guy #3: Just come to my shop. I have stuff to sell.
Dan: No thanks.

Finally that guy leaves us alone and lets us walk.  About 3 steps alter another guy comes up to us.
Guy #4: What are you doing?
Dan: Just walking.
Guy #4: Where are you going?
Dan: This way.
Guy #4: Can I show you where to go?
Dan: No thanks. We are just walking.
Guy #4: Well, what are you doing? 
Dan: Just walking and looking at shops.
Guy #4 I have a shop. You want to see it?
Dan: No thanks.
Guy #4 Do you want some Bob Marley smokes?
Dan: No thanks.
Guy #4 (after following us for what seemed like forever asking the same questions over and over again): Where are you going?
Dan: Back to the ship.
Guy #4: You are going the wrong way.  The ship is that way. (He points in the opposite direction).
Dan: OK, thanks.
Guy #4: I'll show you.
Dan: No thanks, we are fine.  We just want to walk.
Guy #4 (getting irritated with us): Fine. You're acting strange, man.

So we turn around and start back toward the ship past all the guys who offered us weed, and for us to visit their shops.

Another guy tries to fist bump Dan.  Dan ignored it.  But this is guy #5.
Guy #5: How you doin'?
Dan: Good.
Guy #5: Want some Bob Marley smokes?
Dan: No thanks.

That guy walked away a lot faster than the others, thankfully.

So after an interesting encounter for a mystery meal and 4 offers for weed, we made it back to the tourist shopping area.  Then, eventually back on the ship.  We realized we went the wrong way and left the tourist trap for our lunch...and boy did we get an adventure and true Jamaican culture! 

14 Thanks and Counting...

So I am having one of those days...

When you initially hear that you probably think, "Oh boy, what's wrong?".  Right?  We tend to think there is something bad or awful going on more often than we tend to look on the bright side and count our blessings.

Well, today I am having one of those days...that I am feeling thankful for so much.  What is dominating my thoughts is how fortunate and blessed my family is. 

I love my husband so much (still) after 9 years.  (He is a great blessing for sure!)That in itself is quite the feat these days. I looked up the average length of a marriage in the US...it is 7 years.  So, nine years is a type of marriage longevity.  Wow. How sad.

So, Dan and I have been happily married 9 years AND we have two very healthy and active boys.  Another blessing (or 2!).  So I am up to 3 very substantial blessings in my life.

Dan and I have been happily married 9 years, we have 2 healthy active boys, AND Dan and I both have parents that are still married happily after more than 30 years.  Chalk up 2 more blessings making the count at 5.

Dan and I have been happily married 9 years, have two healthy and active boys, parents that are still happily married, AND our families all get along beautifully together without tension or awkwardness.  There is none of the bad in-law talk from either of us and in fact, we both love our parents and in laws greatly.  Peacefulness=blessing 6.

To top it off, each person referred to has put their trust and faith in Jesus Christ and actively live to seek His will for their life.  Amazing. Blessings 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14...and that does not even include our siblings and their spouses, and many of our close friends.

So, how is it I can let little petty things bother me when I have so much to be thankful for?  It is when I take my eyes off of my Savior.  When I doubt.  When I loose track of what is truly valuable.

I have so many blessings and have so much to be thankful for with so many people that are close to me. 

So, I am continuing on with my "one of those days" day that encompasses thankfulness to its fullest.  Thank you, Lord Jesus for the blessings that run deep in my family roots and for such goodness in my family.  I don't want to ever take that for granted.   

Preparing

It feels like I am often preparing for something.  I prepare for traveling and trips, I prepare lunch for the boys for school, I prepare for the holidays buy purchasing gifts, and most recently, I have been preparing our house to sell. 

I looked up the word prepare and according to wikipedia it means "to make (something) ready for use or consideration." 

OK, so where am I going with this?  The first thing that comes to mind is how I am being prepared.  I was created for a purpose and God knows me more intricately than I even know myself.  Therefore, He knows what it takes to prepare me for my goal.  And, God is making me ready for use in future situations by allowing me to experience current situations (both what I consider good and bad).

There are times where I wonder why I have to go through such a difficult trial, and there are times that I do not realize God has been working on me because He's so gentle, but in either case, He's using me and molding me into a better vessel for Him.  For that, I am thankful.

I want to be flexible to his preparations and not get so stuck in my desires and ways that I miss part of the bigger picture.  I want to be open to where and what I feel He is calling me to do.

So, my goal: open ears, a heart for serving and loving and an ever increasing desire to prepare for His coming. 

Lord, use me and prepare me how You see fit.



An Arizona cross, in my eyes.



A Walk is for the Dog(s)

Carlee has been good for me.  I mean that in a couple ways. 

1) I have again realized my love for animals.  I grew up with a dog, cats, fish, the occasional gerbils and even the desire and fulfillment of a cricket farm.  I worked at a horse ranch, and we had a pet field mouse.  I often wanted a pet lobster but my mom threatened to eat it if we had one so I decided it was safest to skip that one.  Going to college I was away from my pets and did not get another one until I was married.  We splurged and adopted some goldfish.  Now, as of August 2 we have goldfish and a dog.  I enjoy watching the fish swim around, but not so much enjoyment is found in cleaning out their tank.  (But I do it every now and then).  I really enjoy the companionship of Carlee, our family dog.  She has been a welcome addition and renewed love of animals for me.  I had not realized how much I enjoyed my furry friends.  I can not imagine our house without one now. 

2) Carlee has been good for me in another way too.  I use her as my excuse to get exercise.  She must go on a longer daily walk right?  So, Carlee and I have been exploring local parks with walking paths.  I blame it on her for needing exercise, but in reality, I think that is an excuse for my desire to hike some local trails. She acts as my shadow and will follow me everywhere I go.  She'd gladly accompany me on trails, as long as I am within her sight. I love the sound of the fall leaves crunching under our feet and the smell of the autumn air.  I love the company of Carlee so I am not out walking by myself.  Even though she's not all that fearsome, it is still nice to not be alone.  When I talk, I have someone I am talking to so I don't sound like I am just talking to myself.  But, I am not sure she really cares about the color of the leaves that I point out to her or the fallen tree that makes an ideal photo.  She probably does appreciate the sound of my friendly voice to her so what I say is irrelevant as long as I am talking to her.

I'm thankful for her patience with our kids too.  We have one child who likes to be sneaky and tease Carlee.  She has been nothing but kind and well mannered with the kids.  I have deemed her "Saint Dog" for her ability to endure our children.  They do not always understand that she needs a break and likes to sit in peace.  She has not once been aggressive toward them. 

I'm thankful for our newest companion. She's been the perfect dog for our family.  Now, I am trying to convince Dan that 2 dogs would be a good option. He's far from convinced.  I'll keep trying.   But for now, I'll keep using Carlee as my excuse to spend time outside and keep appreciating her gentile manner and companionship.

Woe is Monday vs Blessed is Monday

As an avid Facebooker I often see the "Woe is Monday" comments.  Sometimes I struggle to understand what all the complaining is about.  I understand that the weekends are enjoyable, but is Monday really that bad?  We should be used to it.  It comes every week,  We know full well to expect it. 

My Monday's are my productive catch up days.  I often have a laundry list of things to accomplish come Monday.  Today was no different.  The day went so fast, and dare I say-it was enjoyable!

 I have designated Monday as laundry day.  This week was no different.  I have done 7 loads of laundry.  There are 2 more to finish, but the bulk of it is done.  It was not so bad either.  Just think what it would be like without a washer...like back in the scrub board days. I have no reason to complain about the ease of a modern day washing procedure.  Here is the kids portion of laundry day, after I had put away Dan's and mine.

In between loads of laundry I took a trip to Target.  I did a bit of grocery shopping and I bought the rest of the stuff for the shoe boxes we are filling for Operation Christmas Child.  This program provides a shoe box of goodies including school supplies, essential clothing, toys, and hygiene supplies for kids who otherwise would not receive a Christmas gift.  A booklet is also put in the shoe boxes to give the receiving child and their family info about Jesus.  It is a way of showing God's love in a practical way.  I decided to fill 6 boxes this year.  There is one for each age group, both girl (front row of boxes) and boy (back row of boxes).  I just love making these and pray that the recipients will be blessed by the box, and most importantly that they will know and accept the love of Jesus as their own.

In the middle of laundry, before and after Target, and before and after filling the shoe boxes, I attempted making homemade bread.  I have never made a loaf of bread like this.  I have made the frozen kinds where you pull out a frozen pre-made dough, let it rise and bake it.  I have made buiscits.  I have also made many sweet breads like pumpkin, applesauce, cranberry etc. but I have never made a type of sandwich or artisan bread from scratch...until today.  I mixed dough, kneaded it by hand, let it rise 2 times and baked it.  And, I sampled it, and it turned out just as I was hoping!  Yummy!  I made wheat buttermilk honey bread.
Here is the recipe I used:
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/buttermilk-honey-bread/Detail.aspx

And, here is the photo of one of my loaves (it makes 2):

When the kids came home from school we met a friend and some neighbors at the park.  It was nice to enjoy some conversation and friendship.  (No pictures today of that though).

After the park, we came home.  I was in the process of making supper and the kids were having a hard time controlling themselves.  I know that late afternoons can be a time of meltdowns and today that happened.  The kids were sent to their rooms so they would be separated and could calm themselves down.  I went up to talk to them about their behavior and Zack handed me a paper.  (I had seen it on his desk for a couple weeks so I guess he was prepared for his next room confinement.)  Here is his paper...

My assumption is that he meant one of the "d's" to be an "o".  In either case, he is not God, but he can often be good. This paper had no merit for me as it was done well in advance.  But, I did enjoy both the mis-spelling and the thought behind it.  After time alone, both kids were civil and enjoyable.

So although many people dread Monday each week, if we just have the outlook that it is going to come, we can make the most of it.  I hope that we can all have the mentality that each day is a blessing and as the verse and song go "Today is the day that the Lord has made."  Rejoice, and be glad.  We are blessed beyond comprehension.

Ode To Grandma

There are some people who shape who you are.  Some people make you a better person.  Some people have a sweet demeanor and love unconditionally.  Some people sacrifice time and money for you, willingly.  Some people have bold audacity to tell you what they think, with your best interest in mind.  Some people love God openly and confidently. Some people will forever be etched in your mind.

My Grandma is one of those people.  She fits every one of the above characteristics, and then some. 

Today is Grandma's 94th birthday.  Her life, all 94 years, has been a blessing to more people than I can count.  I am just one of the many hundreds (literally) she has touched with a lasting love.  Her devotion to God and family always came first, but if you were not family, you were treated as if you were! 

Giving-she is always willing to share what she has with others.  Her hospitality is something I strive for.  She   has a way with making everyone feel welcome.  She has on a couple occasions even been known to invite the Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses into her kitchen and chat over some coffee and donuts.
Respected-all those who know her are struck with her honesty and integrity
Adored-she is one of those people who it is impossible to NOT love.
Nurturing-she was always available and overly willing to take care of me, and others.
Donut maker-She always had treats in the cookie jar for unannounced guests including donuts.
Minimalist-she never needed "stuff" to make her happy.  It is all about the relationships with people.
Adventurous-she loves to travel and has visit all 50 states and many foreign countries.

I have countless stories from growing up so close to Grandma (and Grandad) and can talk endlessly about these loving people.  I am so thankful Grandma is MY Grandma! 

Below are some scanned photos that I have.  They bring back such beautiful memories.

 This is Grandma and Grandad.  It was the rare occasion to see them apart, so this is quite a typical moment.

 This is showing what Grandma enjoys most-people!  She is holding my son Zackariah in 2004.

 This is one of my favorites!  They dressed in their wedding attire for their 50th wedding anniversary.        June 1995.

 Grandad, their daughter Ingrid, Grandad's mother Besty, Their son (my dad) Gregor, and Grandma. 

This is Grandma (right) and Grandad's mother Besty on Mother's Day in 1966.  

Grandma, you are one fine and special lady. 

Thank you for everything. 

 All my love,

 Kirsten.

Casting an Experiment

This morning I am casting an experiment. 

I am going to share the very last photo I have taken. 

I am not sure what it is.

This could be a daring experiment. 

My camera is currently downloading the most recent photos. 

I suddenly become a bit nervous and self conscious about what it is.

For real, thoughts of inadequacy are emerging. 

I continue on.  

I suppress the negative thoughts.

Be brave, Kirsten.

I'm feeling a bit more confidence. 

My curiosity is peaked. 

I hope it is a good one!

Here it is.  Trees.

Although it may just be a bunch of trees, each photo has a story behind it.  This one is of no exception. 

The story:
I enjoy the outdoors.  I find that I do not enjoy the outdoors. 
Contradiction?  Nope.
As much as I like being outdoors, I find that I do not make the time to enjoy moments like these.  I sit, using  my computer and waste moments by perusing online sites and before long way more time has passed than I anticipated.  So, the day of this photo, I decided I was going to treat our dog Carlee to a walk in the woods. (This really was my mindset..  Treating my dog.  But, it was more for me, I can be selfish, and try to trick even myself!)  We drove to Blue Mound State Park.  I had seen a sign for hiking trails there last weekend.  I found them.  We walked a couple miles in the woods.  The exact woods of this photo.  The sound of the crunching fallen leaves with each step was blissful.  The various outdoor scents were intriguing to Carlee.  I snapped some pictures of the beautiful creation around me in hopes to capture overdue moments of time spent outdoors.  It was a precious, yet ordinary hike.  Just like the photo.  

So there it is.  Proof that I really have been out, living. 

So Long...

As I just wrote the title "So Long..." I realized it could be taken two ways.  It could mean, farewell, for I have forsaken this blog far too long and have quit...or it could simply mean, it has been an extended amount of time since I have posted an entry.  In this case, I am referring to the later.  Although I have forsaken this blog for far too long, I think of it often.  I want to be diligent and post meaningful entries more often.  But, I have been caught up living life.  Both are good.  Now I choose to make my way back to being a regular blogger, while living life.

I am a visual person, therefore this would not be true to me if it did not reveal some snippet of my life through a photo.  I am going to randomly select a candid photo from the past week...

Here is a typical moment in our home.  The boys love to read. 

A bit of background to the photo... I select many books throughout the year from books sales, Scholastic book orders, discount book warehouses etc. and I save them for trips or presents or just for fun as a random gift to the kids.  Dan had shuffled through our book stash and picked out 2 books to give to the kids for a lazy Saturday morning.  He had asked Zack if he wanted to read and he did.  So, in this moment, Zack was reading his new book.  Owen had to patiently wait for his turn to read his new book.  As Zack was reading I pulled out the camera to capture a candid moment.  (You know, the type where people are not strategically placed by lining up in front of some neat object or scenery).  When Owen saw the camera, he started making unique, yet partially subtle, silly faces waiting for me to notice and tell him to stop.  I did not tell him to stop.  I just snapped the photo.  Voila.  A candid moment.  Sometimes you just have to let personalities shine to capture the true person. 

Soon to come in a future blog...more moments from the Fawcett home.

It's good to be back.

Bridges

I intentionally took pictures of covered bridges while in New Hampshire.  It was just one of those things I sought out.  I captured 3.  I saw 6.  Covered bridges have an old New England feel to them, and up until this past trip to NH I did not have strong feelings toward New Hampshire, outside of the fact that I was born there and grew up there.  But, as in my last blog, it is easy to overlook those things that are so close to you.  I grew up so close to the Smith Bridge that I could see it out my bedroom window, and we in fact lived on Smith Bridge Road.  But it was not very lovely to me then.  I wish it was.  But it was not.

Another quaint bridge is the Campton Covered Bridge.  (If I have the name wrong on this one, please feel free to correct me),  This one was about a 10 minute drive from my NH home growing up.  I think I saw it 3 times in 15 years.  And, it was insignificant.  What was I thinking, and how could I be so blind to all of these interesting and historic sights?

The 3rd bridge that I captured is in Littleton, NH.  It is a foot bridge, so no cars allowed!  It has such picturesque scenery so one can not help but pull out the camera on the trek across and capture a babbling brook (there are only brooks in NH, no creek's for all you Midwesterner's reading).  This one is outside of my grandmother's assisted living facility so she has a lovely view every day!  The brook there I am sure is intertwined (due to her lack of memory) with the one next to her home in Rumney, NH...how great to live by such beautiful God-made beauty! In the words of Leeann Womack, "I hope I never loose the sense of wonder".


My beautiful Grandma who is not a bridge, but helped to etch the (eventual) appreciation of NH in me.



I am sure there are some great and wise words to combine bridges with life, but for now, I am going to leave it at this.  I have a new found appreciation for quaint New Hampshire covered bridges and hope my eyes are continually opened to every day ordinary wonder.

Missing the Close Stuff

I can not believe that I passed by Quincy Bog at least 4 out of 7 days a week for more than 10 years and never visited!  I was excited to meet a dear friend and her family during my NH visit and we explored the Bog.  Later, I found out that my grandparents helped to get the bog started and invested money in this natural area.  What a fun time, even in the misty rain!  I like that there is such a beautiful place, so close to where we are!  So, I guess the moral of this "story" is don't look far away to see God's beautiful creation.  It is often in those common areas that are overlooked.  We tend to think that you have to go somewhere far away to experience the neat and exciting places.  If we stop and examine our own "backyard" I think it will be amazing what we find.

Thanks dear friend for suggesting this lovely spot to meet up and for being a dear friend!  It was treasured time for sure!