Today's McCarthyism

My last post on Duck Dynasty was posted only one day before the big Phil Robertson GQ article fall out. And please believe me, I had no clue of the storm that was brewing. If you are not sure of what I'm referring, and you too are a Duck Dynasty fan-- I encourage you to Bing or Google. Whatever your search engine pleasure.

My boys are receiving a more confused view of the world around them than ever before. We recently walked away from nearly a decade of working with the Boy Scouts of America. It was over their decision to finally cave in and allow boys that wish to engage in homosexual behavior to join after years of pressure from the folks of GLAAD and other Pro-Homosexual groups. This decision devastated my family in that we left an organization founded in a hundred years of heritage, and that we still dearly love. Our family does not wish to deprive any young man the right to join a boys organization. We simply had to stand for the rights of private conservative groups or businesses like BSA to state that homosexuality is wrong. If only BSA had continued to be firm in that fight that they had pursued all the way to the supreme court only years before, we would be working on my son's Eagle rank over this next year.

Talking this over with the older young men in our family, they made the admirable decision to step away from specific goals and special friends to vote with their feet. They wanted a message to go out to the main stream media that the homosexual agenda could not bully them. They still have the right in America to state that homosexuality is a sin. If the BSA was going to stifle that right, then hopefully the world would see a fall-out by loss in the group's membership.

Now, my sons' favorite show's Phil Robertson from the A&E Network's popular Duck Dynasty is the next victim of, what my husband saw coined  last night on CNN's Twitter chatter, the "homosexual mafia bullies." Phil was suspended from the show for his comments to GQ magazine that homosexuality is a sin. I do encourage you to find and read the whole article. We do not want to make uninformed judgments. I did read it, and Phil is blunt and sometimes crude in his discussion. But I do agree with his views of God's Word on homosexual behavior.

The media and Hollywood are now having a hay-day. Gay and Lesbian spokespeople are enjoying the limelight shining on a topic that is near and dear to them, that homosexuality should be considered normal and those that will not except it are hateful. They have constructed a clever bandwagon campaign. The rhetoric offers a red herring that redirects the true focus by regenerating a new form of the civil rights movement of the 60's. They have been successful in  leading Americans to believe that anyone stating that their sexual choices are wrong are really hateful bigots and suppressing their equal rights. I am in unbelief that African Americans are not outraged to be equated with the homosexual crowd. In my mind sexual behavior and skin color are completely different issues. The civil rights movement of the 60's was peacefully led by profound men like Martin Luther King Jr., and the protests were much needed here in the south that was sadly still promoting inhumane practices such as segregation by skin color alone, to say the least.

I am currently reading Ronald Reagan's Autobiography An American Life. He is actually one of my heroes. A popular actor in Hollywood during the 1940s and 50s before becoming our 40th president. He, against much opposition among his acting peers, fought against communism in Hollywood after World War II. He was an informant for the government and actually helped exonerate many celebrities  that were labeled "Red."  He saw the future detriment of Marxist propaganda penetrating show business. He wanted to stop what he had fought against in Hitler's regime.

 Again in 1950-1956 Senator Joseph McCarthy brought a new communism scare to the U.S. Many Hollywood a-listers were unfairly black listed and called before congress to deny their affiliation with the communist party. Most Americans wanted to vet out these risks to the very freedoms that made our country different than any other. I am not supporting nor negating those proceedings. Definitely not a lover of Communism, but I also do not propose to go about labeling folks as Ruskies.

Arthur Miller, famous Broadway playwright, penned his play The Crucible in response to this phenomenon of widespread cold war panic listing any questionable person as an espionage leading communist. Miller's play takes the audience back to Salem, Massachusetts- 1692 in which it portrays with  historical accuracy many innocent God fearing town folk labeled by a group of young girls as "witches", tried, and then unjustly executed.

In those times the conservatives were the majority and the current world view. Major communications were quick to call out anything that seemed evil. Funny that I can be referring to either the 1950's or the 1600's in that previous statement.  Although, I do believe that much hypocrisy was being lived out in the average day to day goings on of both times.  Let's not fool ourselves as conservatives of today. It is sometimes those in the name of Christ that do the most harm to his name. So we do have to give an answer for those moments in history in which Christian's were reading the same Bible that I currently have on my bedside table, but we understood it from 2 completely different points of view  (to paraphrase a quote I read recently by Lincoln). But now the tables have turned, and  it is the Christian of today that is labeled in the witch hunt of the current media Hollywood frenzied environment. According to mainstream news I should be wearing a big letter "C" and stand in the square for all to shame. I am judged and therefore condemned  a...dum dum dum...Christian! Gasp!!!!

I agree with Sarah Palin (not sure I dreamed I would ever say that LOL) that "free speech is an endangered species." It is really freedom to have religion that is what is at stake here. I have a degree from a Forbes list top private college, and I seem to be labeled backwards and not evolved in my thinking. In a time that churches seem the most accepting and loving of everyone, It is the homosexual movement that frankly is pushy and unaccepting of other's beliefs. The First Amendment provides the right and freedom for my family to practice religion. I choose to practice Christianity and follow the Bible,  which man has practiced from creation (that's been around awhile, huh?). It is no secret Christians believe homosexuality is sin.

Christians, I encourage you to join me in this war against the opinion of negativity towards Christianity. The progression logically leads to liberals labeling a mom like me a Bible radical, told by today's "Biblical scholars" at the universities that I must not understand It's more practical modern meaning. I'm tired of being touted as a hate mongering cult extremist like fanatical Muslims that misinterpret the Koran brain washed to terrorism. It is not right for me to ever fear  being brought up on charges of bullying. So, I will not be cowardly about interpreting the Bible as written, and I will continue to exercise my right to be an educated Christian that contributes to the GOOD of this country. Where have we gone in America when it is the Christian, the ones that still teach morals, that are labeled "the bad guys?"

I am not in dismay. From the beginning sin has found its way to propagate the world. But I have a blessed hope. For Christ said that He has overcome the world. I know who get's it in the end, the author of sin. And truthfully, it would totally be me with him, for I am a great sinner. But along with Phil, I believe my hope is my trust in Jesus Christ.  He is the only pure Holy One. We all would do better to be gracious to one another. For Jesus came to save the sick. The religious men of His time wondered why He was spending His time with the tax gatherers and the sinners. He came to His own and they did not accept Him. If I can love you? Can you love me?

Please write BSA and or A&E and let them hear the voice of Christians. There are several petitions to sign in support for Phil Robertson online. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. They are sadly squeaking louder than we are. We can not sit on the sidelines and wonder why it is not acceptable to be a Christian in America anymore.

Duck Dynasty Revolution

Posters, shirts, books, rugs, towels, pillows, action figures, hats, dvds, tea glasses, duct tape, and don't forget...of course, duck calls. Willie Robertson, I salute you, buddy. You are the merchandising king!!! Not to be out-beat by Disney, huh Dude?

Our family loves the show Duck Dynasty on A&E, and obviously so does the rest of America. It is a number one rated program with merchandise flying off the shelf this Christmas. My kids even dressed up with their buddies as the Quack Pack for their Halloween costumes. We had 6 bearded boys trick or treating, Jack.

Why all the fuss over some camo clad hairy hunters from Louisiana? Let me tell you why we are so fascinated with the show. Our family, like many others, are starved for television that we can sit and enjoy together. Most of the options out there for television viewing are not appropriate for kids. Face it. Honestly, it is not even appropriate for us adults. But every Wednesday after church our family can settle down for some good silly fun.

The Robertson family has developed a program that stresses the importance of faith, love of family, and joy of passing heritage on to the young-uns. It's full of shenanigans and goofiness. Everyone needs a little more Uncle Si in there life. Am I right? But the relief is the fact that the fun and jokes can be enjoyed by all. They actually require a sense of humor and creativity, not the same jr. high dirty joke fair that every other sit com offers. We see the family pray and discuss their relationship with God. Unheard of! The brothers may play pranks, but always end the show with making a point to share their love for and loyalty to one another. And just when most folks think only nerds or hermits camp, fish, and hunt-- the Robertson clan share those long time outdoor traditions with their young children... and us. Bring on the very masculine cool factor.

Our family does not mind supporting their efforts by purchasing every bit of duck paraphernalia they push. We vote more family friendly conservative offerings on tv.

 Mr. Televison Exec, the one that lines up the programs for the big networks. Get the hint... More Duck Dynasty and less tawdry tales!!! 

These are a Few of My Favorite Things

 

Raindrops and roses and whiskers on kittens

Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens

Brown paper packages tied up with strings

These are a few of my favorite things...

I thought I would write down some of my favorite things for Favorite Things Friday. 

Disclaimer: This is totally a materialistic list. It is not to be deep, nor meaningful as to the things in my life that hold true eternal value. It's just a fun glance at simple things that I really enjoy. God given everyday pleasures that make me smile.

My I Phone-

Don't laugh those of you that know how long it took me to accept this device due to my being technically challenged.

My Record Player-

With a complete turn around. My old fashioned record player is one of my favorite gifts my husband ever gave me. I listen to albums I pick up at Half Price Book Store. I have reassembled a collection from my yester-years.

Hallmark Channel-

I love the sappy shows on Hallmark channel. They are clean and have the full on cheese factor.

My Grandmother's Hats-

In my home you will see many things that belonged to both of my grandmothers. They were very special women in my life. One of my favorite things that belonged to my Grandma L was her hats. Hanging on a hat rack in our dining room are 5 to 6 of her hats that she used to wear in the 50's and 60's when women wore hats all the time. They are beautiful and unique. I enjoy looking at their design, colors, and textures, as well as, wearing them on occasion.

My Kitchen aid Mixer-

It's red and shiny. It was given to me by my mom. Both of us are not cooks. But with my mixer I feel like one. It is the most expensive piece of baking equipment I own. Take a look at me now Buddy the Cake Boss. (I love him too).

Scarves, Scarves, and More Scarves-

Warm and Trendy, Warm and Trendy, Warm and Trendy

Anything Sparkly-

Whether jewelry, shoes, handbags, or accessories, I love all that glitters. It is the girlie girl inside of me. When I was a teenager black was cool and pink and shiny were not. They were thought little girlish. Well now that I am in my 40's and have all boys. Girlish is soooooooo cool.

Camping Equipment-

Just as much as I love to be girlie, I love to camp. I was a Campfire girl growing up, and I know how to rough it. We are camping gear junkies here. There is nothing more fun than sitting around the campfire with your friends singing and roasting s'mores.

My collection of children's books-

I have my own library of children's books. You can say I am a collector. I love the smell of books. I feakishly admire other's built in shelving. From Pippi Longstocking to Encyclopedia Brown, these are welcome friends that make their home among my stacks.

Candles and Febreeze-

Aromatherapy Baby!

Our Disney stuff-

My home at times literally looks like Disney World exploded. We have movies, games, Infinity, books, stuffed animals, action figures, sheets, pjs, and more...much more!!! I know Disney gets a lot of controversy among conservative Christians, but I am one conservative Mama that does not miss a movie. I remember when I was a girl and the Wonderful World of Disney came on t.v. We were lucky in those days if Mary Poppins ran on t.v. I remember seeing The Rescuer's and  Herbie Goes Bananas in the movie theatre. Disney is all make believe and everything magical about childhood. I'm wishing upon a star right now...

My Anne of Green Gable VHS Tapes-

I love these movies with Megan Follows. Snuggle by the fire with a cup of tea and settle in for an Anne Shirley marathon. She's a teacher, she's dramatic, and she lived in the early 1900's (that's Charlotte Mason times :))

Broadway Show Tunes-

I clean to songs like Dreamgirls, Dancing Queen, and Don't Cry for Me Argentina. Seriously!!!

My Bassets

My sweet Murry and my new boy Copper. They are so loving and such sweet boys. I could cuddle and snuggle their soft sable furry wrinkles all day.

My Bible-

I know I said this was a materialistic non-deep list. But honestly my One Year Bible has changed my life. I read an entry a day. I do not look at the dates on the top. That always used to hang me up. I would start my One Year Bible on Jan. 1 then by Jan. 15 I was really off. So, the Bible got shelved until next New Year. It revolutionized my quiet time when I released the whole, "read it thru in one year by following the date at the top of the page" thing. I think my current Bible date says October something. When I finish reading it completely through I begin again. It is my love letter from my first love. It is all about our precious God, who He is and what He wants us to be.

You Know You Need Coffee When

   

YOU KNOW YOU NEED COFFEE WHEN...

You are woken up by two big bassets drooling on your face.

You pass by Mc D's and the Caramel Frappe calls to you, "Forget your diet. You know you want to  come and pick me up. I'm here... come get me."

It's 2:00 in the afternoon and to your children it is the Looney Tune hour. Wooo Hoooo Hoooo Wooo Hooo Hooo Woo. But to you it is, yawn, naptime.

You have just held a 15 minute conversation with your child in the backseat of your van, only to realize you dropped him off at class a while back and he is not even in the vehicle. Oops ;)

The caffeine headache has begun to creep in.

 

You look everywhere for the sunglasses that are on your head.

You try to explain algebra to your totally teenage son.

It's a chilly winter Texas day and the fire is going.

You turn the van around to check if the garage is shut more than once a week.

 

You try to explain how to be a good loser to your little guy.

Coca Cola is not available.

When no one can agree on what Wii game to play and it leads to a physical brawl pile up in the living room.

When Jimmy Fallon is just too funny to miss.

You have Mr. C's So papilla Cheesecake. Mrs. C must also like coffee. Come to think of it Mr. and Mrs. C need to come over for So papilla cheesecake and coffee.

It is offered free with foofy creamer. 

You have been wearing one dangly earring all day.

You were up way too late watching Jimmy Fallon and it's time to wake up and teach homeschool.

You ask sternly five times who left something out in the wrong place, only to be told by a sweet voice, "I think it was you, mom." Oh, sorry.

You think it is totally trendy and cool for an over forty mom to wear a smokey eye. Only to go to piano lessons with black goo buggers in the creases and mascara sweat under your eyes. Ah la Alice Cooper. Don't be scared sweet piano teacher.

You drive your husband's brand new car and have no idea how to work the air. So when it is hot outside you blow the blazen hot heater inside the car and vice versa. "We'll be there in 15 minutes boys just deal with it," you say to your kiddos in the backseat. Crud! I dropped them off. It's just me in here.

Your husband brews it for you in the morning while you are still in bed. Quietly, the warm aroma wafts over you and draws you to the kitchen.

As my man and I always say every morning, "It's time to make the donuts..."

 

Glitter, Sparkle, Shine

Holiday parties are coming! I thought I would share some inexpensive drug store skin care and cosmetic products to glam us up for the festivities. You can find these on my bathroom counter:



Every morning I shower with Cetaphil. It gently washes my face.



Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash. Smells amazing, and it claims a jar of Olay moisturizer in each bottle. Smooth!

 
After my face is nice and clean I love to hydrate it with Garnier Ultra-Lift Anti-Wrinkle Firming Moisturizer with SPF 15 sun protection for the day.


For crows feet, dark circles, and puffiness around the eyes I love Simple Revitalizing Eye Roll On.
"A Roll On?" you say. It has a rolling ball that feels like a little eye massage every night and morning.



Never underestimate the power of Chap Stick, especially this time of year. Apple flavor is my favorite.

Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion for dry hands and skin.


L'Oreal Paris True Match Super Blendable  Liquid Foundation with SPF 17. I love this foundation. It truly has a color to match every special skin color-goes on liquid and dries like a powder.


Maybelline New York Dream Bouncy Blush feels like a mousse cloud in a cute little pot, ready for the artist's palette--- And it has fun colors like pink frosting and coffee cake.

Covergirl Wetslicks are the perfect flavored lip gloss. These are just like Estee Lauder Juicy Tubes that Julia Roberts said in an interview they are her favorite. The Covergirl Wetslicks are a fraction of the cost.



My favorite Mascara is tried and true Maybelline Great Lash the same old pink and green one from the 80's.



Almay Intense Eye Color kits come with lid, crease, and brow highlight color. They have one to make your specific eye color pop, then a smokey eye, and a shimmer option.

 
Sally's Finger Paint nail polish is fun with a array of colors. Go glitter for the holidays!


Tresemme Extra Hold Hair Spray to hold that up party doo in place.

Clairol Natural Instincts Hair color. To cover the gray but not permanent. I'm cool medium brown.




Bath and Body Works everything! From lotion, to shower gel, to dish soap, to antibacterial, to body spray, candles, and even night time scents to relax you to sleep. We love it all!



Garnier Refreshing Makeup Remover Wipes to wipe it all away before bed. They smell soooooo good!



 Oozles is in Watauga on Denton Hwy by Target. It is the $1 store for jewelry. You can find fun necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets for, yes, a BUCK! A little bling to wear to your thing.

Have fun being girlie this holiday season. Spruce up and enjoy those Christmas and New Year events

Sound of Musicals

December 5th, NBC will air Carrie Underwood's Sound of Music Live. We will be praying for a good show for Carrie. My house will be watching and cheering you on, Girl!!!

So in honor of the big Sound of Music show coming up, I thought I would list my suggestions for movie musicals. With plenty of singing and dancing, they are fun to watch and sing along to over the holidays.

Not in any particular order. Too hard for me to rate. I have so many favorites.

Hello Dolly! Barbara Streisand and Walter Mathau--- Directed by Gene Kelly.

Guys and Dolls with Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando.

Grease. Although not for the kids, I own the fold out album. Memories from my childhood.

Mame with the great Lucille Ball.

Anything Goes--Bing Crosby

Viva Las Vegas--Elvis

Evita with Madonna and Antonio Banderas.

High School Musical

Top Hat with my favorite Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers

King and I with Yule Brenner and Deborah Kerr.

Singing in the Rain with Gene Kelley, Donald O'Connor, and Debbie Reynolds.

Les Miserables. The 2012 version with Anne Hathaway and Hugh Jackman.

Mary Poppins with Julie Andrews and Dick Vandyke.

Annie with Carol Burnett.

Wizard of Oz--Judy Garland

Dreamgirls--2006 with Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Fox, Eddie Murphy, and Beyoncé

Music Man-- Both old and new :)

Jazz Singer with Neil Diamond

Mama Mia- Not a fan of the story but I can sing along with Abba all day long!!!!

Little Shop of Horrors with Steve Martin (Also not for the kiddos)

Pete's Dragon with Helen Reddy and Mickey Rooney

All Muppet Musicals

All Shirley Temple movies

And of course...Sound of Music with Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer.

Happy sing alongs!!!!

Stetson Hat to City Cat Part 3

Taking down a box full of pictures and high school mementos from my closet, I find many photos and notes from old girl friends and boys I dated. I rarely think about high school. Not because it was a difficult time. It actually was so much fun. I was very involved in my church youth group and active in drama club and concert choir at school. I had some beautiful and precious girl friends. The busy-ness of homeschooling and gratefulness for today leaves little time to connect with the past high school gang.

Do you ever wish you could be like those movies? The ones where they travel back in time and leave a message for their younger self. When I do look back, I wish that I too could do that. I would tell my teen-young woman self to focus on Christ and the work God had for me to do those  precious single years. You see I split my heart in those years. Half my heart was given to my savior and the other half was boy crazy. Too many romance movies had changed my view of what was important in the world.

I had a plan back in those days. It was called "The Friendship Plan."  Thus a clue as to why When Harry Met Sally is one of my favorite movies. I spent a good deal of my time trying to work the plan. Here is the gist of it:

 Step One-- Have a boy that is a close friend become my best friend.
Step Two-- The best friends realize one day that we have feelings for one another, more than "just friends."
Step Three--We date and fall in love. We have deep conversations, romantic dates, and the boy loves the Lord and leads us in regular Bible study. Yes, Bible study. For real!!!
Step Four-- The boy asks me to wear his high school ring.
Step Five--We get engaged, married, and live happily ever after.

In my letter to my younger self I would tell myself to ditch "The Plan", and understand God our Father is in complete control. He has a plan for you, younger me, and it is far better than yours. Trust in Him. Just grasping that attribute of God, His complete control, would have changed my whole thinking back then. It was not up to me, but up to Him.

I wasted so much time chasing guys. Time I should have been caring for my girlfriends, serving others, sharing the gospel. I also went for the guys that were basically jerks (self centered flirts). To all the sweet guys that asked me out or that I too shortly dated, I am so sorry that I always seemed to go for the guy that was not the "good" guy. Younger me, appreciate the gentlemen and lose the losers. Those smart sweet "geeks" are what's really cool.

When I met my man, I was still working the plan and hard. I was now in my mid 20's and not one guy had asked me to wear his high school ring. Not one. All those good ones I mentioned were either married or heading down the aisle by then. Where was my Mr. Right? "The Plan" did not include waiting this long to get married.

My cowboy was different than anyone I had ever dated, to say the least. As a matter of fact he wasn't like any man I had met before. The night we met he asked for my phone number. I thought he would never call me. I lived in Fort Worth and he in Oklahoma. How would we go on a date? I drove the three hour drive back home from that homecoming weekend exhausted from staying up late talking to my new Stetson hatted friend. After some much needed sleep in my warm soft bed at the home where I grew up, I called my girl friend to come over and hear about the guy I'd met. We rented 8 Seconds from Blockbuster. The movie 8 Seconds is the story of Lane Frost, the World Champ bull rider that died way too young. He too was known for his polite courteous country manners with fans. All those "ma'ams" and gentle down home ways reminded me of the new guy I met back in OKC. There is one particular scene in which Lane takes his soon to be wife on a first date to Whataburger. Sitting there in the booth he asks, "How's your Whatachicken?" Would these be what my dates with Stetson would be like? Not sure I was cut out for that. Remember step 3- Romantic Dates!

After saying so long to my best girl friend, I had just settled in to my bed when the phone rang. That low raspy voice was on the other line, "Hello." I cannot believe he really called. I asked if he even remembered what I looked like. "What color are my eyes?" "Sure I remember." He distinctly claimed. "They're brown, right?" Wrong answer. :) They are totally BLUE!!! We still joke about that.

He was calling from a phone booth. "I have to get my long distance turned back on so I can call you again." "Why was your long distance cut off?" I asked, between him adding more change to continue our call. He explained that he had met a guy down on his luck and invited him to stay with him for awhile. In return the guy ran up long distance calls on his phone, stole from him, and took off. You can imagine my absolute bewilderment as to how someone invites a stranger to live with him. This was the ways of the new man in my life. Let's fast forward a little through a word montage.

Cowboy came to visit me in Texas the next weekend after we met. He stayed with my best friends. I took him to Billy Bobs and locked my keys in the car.

He saved me from attack ducks at the park.

We took turns traveling back and forth from Fort Worth to Oklahoma city. We enjoyed cuddling and watching movies on the couch. No big dates, except he did like to take me to El Chicos. We also saw The Santa Clause  with Tim Allen. I felt like I had my own "Tool Man" OOHH OOHHH OOHH OOh. For those of you who know Tim Allen's signature grunt from Home Improvement.

He took me to meet his granddaddy, the first family member I met. His granddaddy was a nationally renowned sculptor. His house looked like a museum. He had a model T car, antiques in every corner, and a dusty living room covered in bronze sculptures that he fashioned with his own hands. He giggled like a young boy as he shared stories about my man's nana, and how they met in World War II. Then the two relayed remembrances of many hunting trips they had shared, despite Grandaddy's hearing aid that squealed more than helped his hearing. It was my Cowboy's sweet love for his granddaddy that made me fall for him.

I made him a 14 Days of Valentine's with 14 little gifts for him to open everyday of February until V-Day. He, spur of the moment, had us head to the mall to pick out some chocolates from the candy booth. The lady let me pick whichever yummy chocolate drizzled treats I wanted. She placed them in a satin ruffled heart shaped box. MMMMMM!

Okie man loved to sing at the top of his lungs along to the country music on the radio with the windows rolled down. Still does today, only he has 4 voices joining in now.

He once made me a roast in a crock pot that he simmered for 3 days. He wanted it to be really tender. The longer it cooked the more tender, right?

He likes spicy food and I like mine mild. He once ate Mexican food soooooo spicy it brought tears to his eyes and sweat to his brow.

I tried to impress him with the only meal I knew how to make--BBQ pork chops, mac and cheese, and Ranch style beans. Wait, I'm a city girl!

This boy that had been stationed at Army base, Fort Polk in Louisiana taught me how to suck the heads off a crawdad.

My man has never met a stranger. He is friendly with any by-stander he meets, always striking up a conversation. In fact every where we go he is either visiting with folks we do not know or running in to old friends he used to know. Even when our family went to Disney World he ran into an old buddy from his hometown.

On a beautiful warm sunshiny day you might find us together by the pond. He would fish and I read a book. He loves the outdoors.

My grandmother gave him my grandfather's old tackle box. He still uses it today.

He yelled and cheered so loud at the Bullnanza  (Yes, I went to a Bullnanza. There is a first time for everything.) the girl next to me asked if he could quiet down. His yee hawing was hurting her ears. I wanted to crawl under the seat. Even more so, when I realized she was a girl I used to go to church with and hadn't seen her in years. "Oh, it's Cindy from years ago here with really loud whooping cowboy."

Danced to Merl Haggard in concert. I bought the tickets as a surprise, and my cowboy dropped everything to drive down.

Let me tell ya. My guy can dance. You name a country dance-2 Step -yep- Electric Slide--yep--Cotton Eye Joe--you guessed it--Shoddish--no problem--Swing--oh yeah. My favorite--the Tush Push. That is something we had in common. I came from a dance background. Country dance was new to me, but just show me the steps and I will keep on up, honey.

He gave me a simple ring for Christmas. A promise ring that one day he would like me to be his. I gave him his first Bible.

My friends called him "Cowboy Guy" and he had to endure some of them telling him they were not sure he was right for me. The hardest one for him to endure was my homosexual friend, Larry, that I worked with at Dillards. I think my "Cowboy Guy" learned a big lesson that Larry was a great guy even though we did not agree on his life style choice. We love you, Larry, wherever you are now!!!!

He got in a fist fight over a poker game with his brother in law a week before our wedding. My biggest fear was that he would have a black eye on our wedding day.

We shopped for his whole family's Christmas presents at Walmart, and he wrapped  them in the plastic shopping bag they came in.

We talked for hours every night long distance racking up the phone bill. But never on Monday night's during football season.

I taught his outside dog, Keeper, as in "She's a Keeper," the one that was not allowed inside or to lick you in the face--I taught her to come inside, lay on the couch, and give kisses. :)

Went to see Garth Brooks in concert with his sister. The best concert EVER!!!!

We would not want to let go of one another when it was time for him or I to head back across that Red River border that came between his home and mine. We would good bye and kiss forever. Sometimes I would cry. I got this terrible sick feeling down in the pit of my stomach. I was leaving part of me behind.  It seemed like it would be way too long until we would be together again.

This man always stopped for stalled cars on the side of the road. Always! He never worried about the dangers, only those that might be stranded.

I taught my country boy to shut the windows at night, bolt the doors around the house, and keep his car locked. City life is not as trusting and free.

He taught me to try mom and pop places and to not plan every moment of my day.

My country man may not have planned elaborate dates or given me extravagant gifts, he was so different than what I ever dreamed of. Very different than the city guys I grew up with. He was stubborn and sure. He had no since of protocol. He followed the winding road, no plan needed. He did not own any dress clothes when I met him, only boots and  jeans. He thought I was the most beautiful, amazing girl he had ever met. He told me so all the time. There were no games. If he felt something he said it. He encouraged me to do what was best for me. He cheered me on to try things I never thought I could do before. He wondered why I wasn't turning back to the God I claimed to serve so faithfully when younger. He was willing to try and figure out how to be a Godly leader if that was the man I needed. He always made me look him straight in the eyes. He told me he loved me a week after we met and he meant it. He was a mature man that could handle taking care of his woman. I was his "good" girl and he was a wild maverick.

Tune in next time and I will tell you about what happened when while we were dating, I was in Oklahoma City with my country boy on the day of the Oklahoma City Bombing of the Murrah Federal Building and then how my guy proposed to me under a meteor shower.

Until next time....

Count Down to Thankful

Top 10 Things I'm Thankful for this Year:

#10 Coke, Coffee with Hazelnut Creamer, and Chocolate---Of Course :)



#9 Texas. We recently went to San Antonio to visit the Alamo. Thinking about the history of Texas fight for independence, I feel even a greater since of over whelming pride in my state than just that which seems to be instinctive to all those born here. The folks in the south are neighborly and friendly.  From the rolling hills, to the winding rivers, and the longhorn cattle; I love living here and being called a Texan.
 

#8 Books, books, and more books. I love the way the library smells like old books. I also love reminiscing with my boys about our favorite moments in books that we've shared. Even more so, I love that God wrote us a love letter that we can read every day.


#7 Music. Every night before we go to bed my children practice piano and guitar. It blesses me more than I can say. Hearing them play, fills my heart with peace and joy. There is nothing better than a home filled with music. On Sunday morning, I sing with my church choir. It is most excellent as well. The blending of the voices with the orchestra all glorifying our Great God. Beautiful! When I clean the house I also like to crank up the tunes. Whether it is show tunes, 80s, country, or worship music-- whatever my mood their is a song that can relate and express my thoughts.


#6 My parents and my grandparents. I am so blessed that my parents are alive and well. They have always loved and supported us. Having my parents in my corner helps me feel safe and sure.  My grandparents are no longer with us. I really miss my time with all them. Looking back, I took so many holidays with them for granted. My Grandma Leslie particularly. Her last Christmas here I did not go see her at the nursing home because of the icy weather that year. It was the first Christmas I ever missed going to see her. My grandparents also gave me a sweet since of belonging. I have a heritage and I am part of a legacy--Such treasured memories, heirlooms, and stories.
  

#5 Teaching Drama. Every week I have the opportunity to share my passion for theatre with jr. high and high school students. I get to dabble in costume design, act out imaginary worlds, and direct plays to entertain audiences.                                                                               


#4 Basset Hounds. They are warm, wrinkly, and fuzzy. Did you know it is very cathartic to curl up and hug man's best friend? Well it is the best on a stressful day to cuddle with Murry. My Murry loves and loves and loves.



#3 My boys! Being a teacher, I have met many many wonderful kiddos, but in ALL the world there is not 3 better boys than my 3 sons. God blessed me with the 3 very BEST ones!!!


#2  My husband. We have almost been married 18 years. I'm thankful that he puts up with me. I am very seriously flawed. I appreciate that he still calls me his girl. He has taught me to be more flexible and try the road less traveled.


And #1 So thankful for God the Father's love for me. That He is slow to anger and abounding in love. That He sent His son Jesus to endure the wrath for my sin. Without Christ Messiah I would have no hope. Grateful for The Holy Spirit that is working to change my heart to be more like my Father's.

Stetson Hat to City Cat Part 2



picture courtesy of Wikipedia

So the mysterious cowboy guy walks cross the dance floor. Totally true story here folks. He has deep blue eyes with a little fleck of brown on the right one. This smooth wrangler had a grin from ear to ear, as he strolled up and asked, "Would  you like to dance?" Did I mention how I got to this country bar? Well I should back up then and go over that. Let's back up a year and a half before this.

After graduation, my 2 year long relationship with B ended in much weeping and gnashing of teeth on my part. He was a preacher's kid that lived up to the stereo type. He spent most of his college years rebelling and working out the restraints of a conservative Baptist up-bringing. When we had begun dating my junior year in college, I was at an all time Christian high. I had been to the mountain away at Christian school and was so deeply in love with Christ. Enjoying and devouring every wonderful morsel Elisabeth Elliot served up in her book Passion and Purity. I constantly added  verses, poems, and prayers to my journal. I even made a Valentine's card that February giving my heart to God my Father. It seems like it is at these times that Satan lurks ready to get a foot hold.  Ignoring all the warnings from my sorority sisters about long haired B, I followed the plots of all the popular movies and opted for what I thought was an exciting "romance."  Some how God had a plan. "All things work for good for those that love the Lord." The "good" God had planned in this story of my redemption came after much heart ache and wrong choices.

Flash forward again to the weekend of my meeting God's Mr. Right for me. After 3 years of my own living in  rebellion to the Lord I had loved so much as a young woman, I was still trying to move on past B. I desperately needed to change my life. I had been looking for a husband by going to clubs with my friends. Clubs I would not have thought about stepping foot in 3 years before. I attended church but felt God was disappointed in His child. How would He ever trust me again.

2 of my OBU girlfriends invited me to meet them for homecoming in Shawnee. My one girlfriend had arranged some dates for all of us. After many homecoming events that day, including the big game--Go Bison!  Let 'er go KA RIP!!! The three of us dropped by one of the old gang's home. It was full of college students younger than us and alum that were glad to see old friends. Wassail was brewing in the kitchen and conversation was warm as the cup. Then all went cold as of course who should be there, but yes, B. After a very chilly hello it was time to get out of there, and how?

Where were these promised great dates? Let's get 'em and roll! I'll show B he is old news. What? They can't make it? My choice is back to the hotel and sleep. My gal pals talked me in to heading to a Norman hot spot anyway. About 20 minutes in I was ready to head back to the hotel. "Really, gals this has been nice and all, but lets make it a night." Then he arrived. Little did I know God would change my life through this cigarette smoking, Whiskey drinking, army vet, cowboy.

We danced through several dances. He would always ask me for another. Not sure of his motives I finally told him no thank you... no more and went back to my friends. My buddies were in shock. Who's the guy? Now I was really ready to call it a night. I lived in Fort Worth. That was 200 miles away. This man was a stranger. A cute stranger mind you. "Don't look now but here he comes." As I sat on the bar stool at our table he came over and asked if I would like to meet his friends. His friends? More cowfolk? Was he there with his ranch buddies? My friends might want to check this out but not me. I told my gal pals to please come search and rescue me in 10 minutes if I did not return. I reluctantly walked with him to meet "the friends." They were not at all what I expected. My guy was there with his married couple friends. They had asked him out to cheer him up. He too had recently experienced a major breakup. He left me there with Dee Dee while he and his buddy went to buy another round. I was given the ultimate honor of taking care of his hat. He even used words like "ma'am" and darlin'." That deep voice maybe I could get used to. His friend Dee Dee was so friendly. She looked like someone I would be close girl friends with. Dee Dee explained to me that this Cowboy, that I had just met, was really the sweetest man. The best guy. Listening, I set his hat on the table right side up. "Oh, he would not like you to set his hat down like that. You should know how to lay a hat. It sits like this." She picked it up and demonstrated the proper way to perch a hat so that it does not get misshapen. Who was she to tell me how to hold my man's hat? I knew then and there no one would ever take this guys hat away from me again.

More next time......... To be continued......

Ree said that she wrote her novel in hopes that those reading it might remember falling in love with there husbands once upon a time. That is my hope for you too as I reminisce here. :)

One of mine and Dave's songs from the old days. The pastor read some of the verses at our wedding ceremony.

Watch for the fireman in the crystal lake with some lady. What is with that in this video. Weird?!

Stetson Hat to City Cat

 

                                                                            
Picture courtesy of Amazon

Folks who know me and have seen the extreme amount of O.U. paraphernalia that surrounds my family can come to the conclusion that I must have an Okie somewhere around here. Well yes I do! My hubby is an Okie to the core, born and raised in the heartland---tornado alley.

I just finished reading Ree Drummond's sweet romance novel about how she, a city girl vegetarian,  met her cattle rancher husband Ladd in From Black Heals to Tractor Wheels. I have never met fellow homeschooler and native Oklahoman, Ree, but I am a big fan of the Pioneer Woman as she calls herself on her blog. I think if we were to meet we could have a few laughs and enjoy some Nutella laced chocolate cake.

In a spirit of fun competition-- I throw down the gauntlet, Ree, and present
Stetson Hat to City Cat:

I grew up in the 80's. My high school years were full of big hair, blue eye shadow, preppy turned up collars, boys wearing pink, Madonna, and Brat Pack movies. My graduating senior class had over 500 students, and that was really and truly in my class alone. You can imagine the graduation ceremony--the convention center, all those names being read, all those kids walking across the stage, phew! I am a proud Texan. You have to be if you grow up in Dallas/ Fort Worth. I think they must teach all Texans that it is the best and only state in the union beginning in kindergarten. You know the stars at night are only big and bright deep in the heart of TEXAS! Texas gal, yes. Cowgirl--no way! In my school there was a group of cowboys and girls. I think we called them Ropers back then. I hope it was because of the Roper boots they wore and not because we thought they all roped cattle. This goes to show you how clueless I was to the whole "Roper" thing.

Well, even though I grew up in Texas I had been on a horse maybe once. I had not owned a cowboy hat since my Easter treats came in one when I was little. My music of choice was Kid Kraddick's top pop song dedication hour. I did, however, know Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton's crossover Islands in the Stream. I was a major city girl. In the words of Harry from When Harry Met Sally I was the, "Worst kind. Your high maintenance but think your low maintenance." I graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University and later became an assistant manager at Dillard's. My degree was in Theatre and Communication Education, but started at Dillard's right after college with the plan to attend grad school at the University of North Texas. I got one big semester there done before I decided a Masters was not for me...but that is another story. You can imagine that for a young twenty something city gal like me, a Dillard's employee discount was like handing over a magic card.

I lived at home with my mom, hung out with my friends, taught drama part time at the dance studio where I continued taking dance lessons, and attended the church in which I grew up. It was November, like it is now :) I made plans to visit my ole alma mater in Oklahoma for homecoming. The year was 1994. It was at a smoky bar in Norman, Oklahoma that I met my own cowboy. He noticed me right away. So he tells me. I'm sure it was the fact that I had on my cool  and "funky" wear. Or was it spunky? I was dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, complete with vest and long necklace. I had on ankle boots that laced (not the cowboy kind but the ones that are making the rounds again now). My hair was long and curly and dyed dark brown. I would say like now, but it looked so much better then, and I dye it now to cover the many many grays. Well this place played mostly country music. Thus why my man was there, duh. (Have you ever noticed that "duh" is not very feminine to say?) I looked completely out of place. Probably like I had broken down on my way to club 90210(Like the Peach Pit After Dark)  and only come in to use the phone. (There weren't really any cell phones back then).

He in his skinny tight wranglers, cowboy boots, slightly unbuttoned crisp starched shirt, wavy brown hair, black Stetson hat with a tucked turkey feather trophy acquired on hunting trip, and his signature moustache that would make Tom Selleck jealous, walked across the dance floor and said, "Would you like to dance?"

Tune in next time for more...To be continued.....
  

Good News

 

With Easter just around the corner, I wanted to spend some time sharing the true celebration of Easter with any whom choose to join me this morning.

I can not tell you how deeply important I feel the need to share this good news with you. It comes from my great love for anyone that might choose to open their heart to what I write here. I am praying that the Lord will do that, open your heart to truth about Jesus.

Most folks do believe Jesus the man lived in historical Israel during the time when Caesar Augustus, also known as Octavia, was emperor of the known world, the Roman Empire. They make a decision that Jesus was either a "good" teacher, or  He was the Son of God. Those reading today probably identify with one of those points of view.

I would like to challenge your ideas of who Jesus really was and is. The argument that He was just a good teacher and a kind man cannot be true. He claimed to be God, in fact that is why the Jewish leaders at the time condemned Him to death-- for blasphemy. He worked miracles that showed control over nature, human body, and foreknowledge of the future. Jesus spoke with an immense understanding of Jewish ancient laws and scriptures.  We, today, still have works written by witnesses to what they had heard and seen at that time, including non Christian Jewish historian writers. So we can conclude He did live here on earth.

But, I would pose the question that He could not have been just a "good" man, could He? Actually knowing what we do about the man, He would have had to have been a mental case to claim the things He did, perform signs, and then to allow His own execution without giving some kind of rebuttal for His accusers. He eventually lead His followers to also be willing to die excruciating deaths under Rome's horrible appetite for torture. So It might be more acceptable to just completely deny any good in Him, and write Him off as a another radical fool. May it never be.

The other point of view seems more likely. I completely believe that He is who He claimed to be, the Son of God. Only God has power over the natural elements, over human anatomy, knows the future, and understand His own laws perfectly.

It was God that created the Heavens and the Earth. We answer to Him because He made us. He is absolutely Holy and Righteous, and so He can not be near sin. He made the first man, Adam, and put him in a beautiful garden in the shiny new perfect earth. It was Satan, the creator of lies, that came to Eve, Adams new wife, and tempted her to disobey God's command.

Since that first sin (any act nonconforming to God's commands), the whole human race is born in sin. Romans 5:12 in the Bible says, "Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men..." I would ask you to think if you have sinned? I know that my life was defined with selfish and sinful behavior before I knew Christ. Romans 6:23 says," For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."

Since God is a just judge, He will punish sin and disobedience to His law. That punishment is death and eternal separation from Him. Those who are not His, will not be with Him in eternity. They will be with the one they followed here on earth, Satan.

That sounds cruel and hopeless. But I titled this post "Good News." Here is the wonderful news-- The God who created you, wants you to be His forever. Romans 6:23 tells us that, "For the wages of sin is death; but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." 

I have demonstrated Jesus' gift of death on the cross to my children in this way. It is definitely not a perfect analogy but helps my sons understand:
A boy disobeys his father and mother so he will have a punishment, such as a spanking.
The mom pulls out the wooden spoon, but then Dad says he will take the boy's punishment in his place.
If the boy will accept Dad's gift, then he will not receive the punishment he deserves.
Instead the Daddy, that has done nothing wrong and does not deserve any consequence, will take the full punishment. Then, the boy will be completely absolved of all crimes committed. The boy obtains the dad's innocence, and the Dad assumes the responsibility and punishment in the boy's place. This, turns the son's heart to the Father.

We all have sinned and will be put before the ultimate judge. We deserve that judgement. But unlike us, Jesus (fully God and fully man) came down from heaven and lived a perfect blameless human life. He was the one that died a terrible death on the cross for crimes he did not commit. His final words on the cross were, "It is finished." This Greek phrase was also written on archeological found receipts of that time and meant, "Paid in full."  Jesus' mission, spoken of since the beginning of time through the Old Testament, was accomplished. The debt that we owe for our sin was paid in full. His perfect life here on earth and His holiness was more than enough to cancel out our wrong doings. His righteous life in exchange for our condemned one. Romans 5:19 says," For as through one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of One the many were made righteous." 

Romans 5:8 states," But God demonstrates His own love toward  us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."

What we are celebrating on Easter Sunday is that Jesus, perfect man, could not be held by the grave. He rose from the dead and continues to reign over His followers today. 

So that leaves us with my original thought, "Was Jesus just another good teacher? Was He a mad man?" Do you deny He is who He said he was?  No, He is as He claimed to be. He is God. And, if you too believe that He is, and that He came to give His life so that you might have the gift of eternal life with Him, then Romans 10:9 says; "That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you shall be saved." And, Romans 10:13,"For whoever will call upon the name of the Lord will be saved." If we truly believe He is God, then we have no other choice but to change and submit to Him.

In response to this gift of life, absolution from our offense, and full payment of our debt; we give our hearts to the Heavenly Father. We ask forgiveness for our sin and repent of them. We receive the promise of the Holy spirit to come and help us become truly our Father's children by following in obedience after Him. We are baptized to show others what He has done for us. We put off the old self and put on the new righteousness of Christ.

There is nothing we can do to gain an audience with the Holy Creator of the universe. I cannot even imagine gaining access to the president of the U.S. In God's eyes we are lawbreakers and can never measure up.
So if we are hoping that our good will out weigh the bad, and He will accept that as good enough. Man, it has to be hard living life trying to gain more merits than demerits. The truth is, in God's court we are just guilty. We can only hope in His grace to us by faith in Jesus alone. Ephesians 2:8 says," For by grace you have been saved through faith; and not of your selves, it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them."

I hope that you will examine your heart today. I am praying that our Lord will open your eyes to the truth that we are all sinners in need of redemption. A savior has come in Jesus, and believing in Him you may have life. This truth will change your heart from self to following a new King over your life.

He died and rose again so that you might also be resurrected from the dead!!!!    

Most of the scripture I referenced was taken from Paul's letter to the Roman church. I would love for you to read it for yourself or the book of John written by one of Jesus' disciples. Read them in their entirety so that you may investigate these truths for yourself.

Women Helping Women

 

 Last weekend I enjoyed a ladies retreat at my church with a dear friend. The topic of the weekend was "Women Helping Women."  One of the wonderful lessons from the great Biblical teaching was on discipleship and mentoring in our everyday walks of life. A beautiful testimony was given by one of the ladies. She welcomed us to join her in a look back at her spiritual journey from young girl to adult mom, and the women that impacted her life. This made me think about the lovely radiant women our Lord has put in my life to draw me closer to Him and His Kingdom.

One of those mentor women in my life is Allie Jones. I have had the privilege of teaching with her at our home school classes for the past 4 years. I also attended church with Allie, and have seen her and her family make a marvelous difference for the Lord. She has 5  terrific children, who have a heart for God. She has given me much wise godly advice and help along the way in the 7 years I have known her, like she has many moms. I would like to include part 2 of the "Encouragement for Home Schooling Through High School" series I began last month. Below is dear Allie's response. I know it will encourage you as it did me.

But before I do I just want to spend just a moment recognizing my much cherished and admired mom. I can't mention mentorship without her. We had some hard news this week about her health. She is a  most precious mom and grandmother. I do not know anyone with a more generous nature. In our home, as I was growing up, my Mama was a glorious picture of a child of our Lord as she depended on her caring Heavenly Father in everything. Many times, during my childhood, I would find her on her knees praying beside her bed. She often had tears as she sang of the marvelous grace of Jesus during the church services (I have inherited that from her :).  So grateful for the example she has been to me in her absolute faith and trust in our great God.

Please enjoy this letter from one of my sweet mentors, Allie Jones:

Dear Homeschool Mom,

The choice to homeschool your kids was a BIG one!  However, the closer you get to teaching high school it seems even BIGGER and fear sets in.  Many questions arise such as: "Will my kids be able to handle college? Will they get into college? Will I explode?

However, don't let fear control your thoughts. Go back to the day you and your husband decided to homeschool.  Why did you decide to homeschool?  Do you feel it is what God wants you to do or are you homeschooling for other reasons?

I understand your concerns and your weariness! I have 5 kids and have homeschooled for 16 years. It has not been easy, but has been well worth it for my family and I want to encourage you. YOU CAN DO IT WITH GOD'S HELP!  When you start to have doubts about continuing homeschool through high school, it might be helpful to reassess the reasons why you chose to homeschool in the beginning.

As for our family, there are two main reasons we chose to homeschool: to teach the Bible daily to our kids and to give our kids an individualized education so they can flourish to glorify God.

First of all, the Bible says in Deuteronomy 6:4-7 to teach your children the Bible diligently at all times:

⁴ “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one! ⁵ You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.

⁶ “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart.⁷ You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.

Homeschooling, although not the only way, is an excellent way to accomplish this command.  If the kids are away all day at school, it is hard to give them a Biblical foundation.  Also, Christian curriculum taught at home can help reinforce Bible teaching.  To me, this is the most important aspect for our kids' education.  It is our duty to teach them their Biblical foundation.  A Biblical foundation gives them the gospel to stand on and will keep them from wavering when life brings storms. That is the ultimate education! Storms typically come in the teenage years.

Another way to contribute to this Biblical foundation is to be involved with a good support group of Christian friends who are like-minded and can encourage you and your kids as they grow.  This can be found be in your church, homeschool support groups, and in outside homeschool classes (co-ops).  I strongly feel that this interaction with other Christians who are like minded is vital to both mom and student and is needed to keep everyone balanced.  There will be plenty of time later to adjust to the world and we need this consistency of Christian support while our kids are building their foundation.

Homeschooling has also allowed my family to grow together rather than apart, especially during the teen years.  I have five children ranging in ages from 21 years to 12 years.  My older three chose to go to UTA and live at home. Therefore, my kids are all very close and we have frequent dinners together.  It is fun to see my 12 year old daughter adore her 21 year old brother who is in college.  They have a wonderful relationship despite the age difference. 

The second reason my family home schools is the individualized instruction it provides.  It does work!  I have three kids so far that have done well in college.  My college kids have not had any problem transitioning into the academic world from homeschooling. My daughter just graduated with a degree in accounting and has entered the work force as a "normal" adult.

Yes, the student does have to be motivated, but the mom's job is to be diligent in the instruction part. 

This does not mean that mom has to be knowledgeable in all areas of high school study! Therefore, I highly encourage the use of outside classes for homeschoolers in high school.  The key is to find a good co-op or teachers that are skilled in the subject matter and to attend classes at least once-a week.  This gives the student accountability to others and teaches them to schedule and reach deadlines. This also provides independence from mom and allows the student to get ready for the next step, whether it is college or a job.

Several years ago, at a homeschool book fair, I was greatly encouraged by a speech by Jay Wile (Apologia Science).  He spoke on homeschooling through high school and said that high schoolers needed to be doing more independent work, which greatly relieved me because I was feeling guilty for not spending as much time teaching with my older students as my younger ones. My older son confirmed this one day when he said that the independent work he did during homeschool and the co-op classes he took are what helped prepare him best for college work.

Another important aspect associated with the success of the academics in homeschooling depends on mom's diligence.  Keeping a consistent schedule and taking academics seriously is vital.  Remember, we are ambassadors for Christ and need to glorify Him in all we do.  (1 Corinthians 10:31) This is not an area to be slack in and will affect your child in the future, but more importantly affects our witness for Christ.

So, how do you continue to homeschool through high school without fear? You rely on God to help you accomplish this and lots of prayer!  I was scared to death when I started and still get scared when the next kid gets closer to college, but the Lord has enabled me to continue. 

I have found that if I approach it from God's viewpoint as being diligent and obedient to teach His word, it is a lot easier.  Some verses that help me to keep going are:

Galatians 6:9:

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Don’t let fear grab a hold of you. Don't be a Jonah and go the opposite way. If you strongly feel this is what God is wants you to do, He will give you the strength.

 God promises not give us more than we can bear. I Corinthians 10:13:

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

Joshua 1:6-9: Be strong and courageous. Meditate on God's word day and night.

⁶ Be strong and of good courage, for to this people you shall divide as an inheritance the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. ⁷ Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. ⁸ This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.⁹ Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Finally, I would like to mention several resources that have helped me while homeschooling through high school:

1.       The Home School Legal Defense has a website with very helpful information about homeschooling through high school.  The website is: http://www.hslda.org/highschool/.  You don't have to be a member to access this website. (However, I highly recommend supporting this group.  They work hard for our freedoms and are there to help if needed in court.)

2.       Homeschooling: The Right Choice by Christopher Klicka is an excellent source of information about homeschooling and includes academic, historical, practical, and legal perspectives.

3.        A Mom Like You by Vickie and Jayme Ferris is a great book of encouragement for homeschool moms.

4.       The National Home Education Research Institute provides statistical information about the results of homeschooling which supports proof that it does work. Their website is: http://www.nheri.org.

Thank you, Allie!!!

  

From the Murry Files

Murry feeling safe and sound. No worries!

Today I will be sharing another fun story about our adorable Murry.

Grammy gave Murry a huge juicy butcher block bone for Christmas. Murry thought that bone was the best thing he had ever seen. Remember he is a rescue dog and was not treated well by his previous owners. We've noticed in the three years we have had him that he hides his things and is sure to drink water wherever and whenever he finds it. We assume this is because at some point he was not given much and did not have regular water.

Well this bone warmed Murry's heart. He wagged his little tail and picked it up to take it outside. What seemed like the perfect gift turned out to be pure anxiety for Murry and thus for us. First Murry hid the bone in the closet to save for later. He made sure no one was looking as he dragged that huge bone to stuff under things in my closet. (Well we pretended not to notice :) ) Then of course, that spot must not have been secure enough because he took it from there and hid it in the boys bed. Under their pillow. (Nothing like a little slobber for sweet dreams.) That was no good either. So he tried to put it under his doggy bed in the living room. Every time he would check on his bone he would decide it was not safe.

Then one day we came home from being out, and there was blood on the clean clothes pile on the couch, blood in my bed, and blood on his doggy bed. Now before you think we walked in to a crime scene, let me relieve your fears. No one had broken in and hurt Murry to steal his precious bone. Instead it was that he had been spending the entire morning burying and reburying his bone with his nose. He would use his nose to pile up the "pretend dirt" onto his bone. He had changed spots so many times that his poor nose was bleeding. So we cleaned up the mess and doctored his nose. We were so worried about Murry's behavior we even brought it up to the vet. He was somewhat baffled by the story. Many were recommending getting rid of the bone. I just couldn't do it. That would be exactly what he was so afraid of. I wanted to assure him it was safe.

I noticed when he would take it outside that he would try to bury it in the ground and use his paws instead of his nose. Ah hah, I thought. I'll make him keep it in the backyard. Besides, once he buried it out there it was muddy and nasty. Well that takes care of it. He will bury it in the yard, and he will feel it is safe once and for all. No injury to his nose. All is well.... Nope. Then he began wanting to go and investigate it in the night. I am not even kidding. He would wake up in the night to go outside and take account of his bone to be sure no one had bothered it. He reminded me of an old grandpa that hides his cash in different spots around the house so no one will come and steal it. Up every night and barking at the door. I would let him out. Then, in he would try to come with his bone to re-hide it. "No, Murry it needs to stay outside."

  I think he has finely forgotten about the bone because we have not seen it in a while. The moral here for us is--- Knick Knack Patty Whack Don't Give Our Dog a Bone This Old Dog Will Roam and Roam. Thank you to the "B" family for giving Murry bacon flavored small snacks for Valentine's Day. He wags his little tail and....gobbles them right up!