Being Elfish

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

Philippians 2:3

The Christmas season has arrived. Now that the snow has melted and the sun is shining, it is kind of hard to imagine the snowy, white holiday is actually upon us. Of course, in some parts of the world Christmas is known for being warm and bright and maybe that is really the better way to think of it. Jesus, after all, came as a Light to a dark world. He came to give and He gave not only material goods and physical healing but also His very life. It is the gift of giving His life that makes all the difference because in this world there will always be hunger and sickness. There will always be hurting people and that is why His gift on the cross is so significant, it gives us hope beyond this world and a light into the next. I am wondering this Christmas what it is that Jesus would have me do, what He would have me give, in order to make a difference for Him. It is fairly easy for me to live a "Christian life" but rather hard to confront others with their need of salvation. I don't want to face a battle or deal with the ridicule that often comes along with sharing the message that none of us are good enough to inherit heaven without the sacrifice of Christ. I want to think that just being me is a good enough testimony but if others aren't told about the One who molds and shapes my life, then I am not really sharing the message they need to hear. So, this Christmas I pray that you will know the joy of God's forgiveness, that you would turn your life over to Him and join us on the journey.

What Did He Look Like?

Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ,... Philippians 1:27a

What does a Christian look like? How does he behave? What makes him stand out in a crowd and how is he different than anyone else in the world? It seems that many people are a bit confused as to the answers. What do you think?

Happy Anniversary

Happy Anniversary to the barefooted bride and her handsome husband!

It was a beautiful winter wedding with snow covered pine trees, glittering snowfalkes, and soft lights. The bride refused to wear shoes and her mother chose slippers over hideously uncomfortable footwear. We nibbled cookies and sipped punch with all the wedding guests and dined in style with close friends and family. They cut the cake, threw the bouquet and made a toast. There was music and even a little bit of dancing. All too soon the party was over and we went home without our little girl. I can't believe its been three years already!

Happiest of Birthdays!

Happy birthday to the woman who was once this little girl! A lover of photography, nature, good food, the ocean, and of course her wonderful children and grandchildren! She has taught me much, laughed with me, encouraged me, and taken way too many pictures of me. I think she didn't quite know what to think when all of the sudden I was her daughter in law (it was kind of a surprise...) but here it is nearly 30 years later and I wouldn't have it any other way!

Gramanita, I wish the ocean was just a little bit closer so visiting would be easier. Maybe one day we'll actually make it to Nova Scotia. I wish you a big piece of cake and lots of laughter on this your day. I love you!

No Fear

Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. Matthew 10:31

I have been reading Facebook notes the past month or so and find myself drawn into some controversial subjects. There are so many different things to think about it can make my head spin. Sometimes that is a good thing because it makes me stop and consider what I really believe and whether or not I need to make some changes in my life. I know God isn't finished with me yet and I still have so much to learn. He is continually changing my heart and filling me with more of Jesus. There are times when I feel myself resist His touch but I know He only wants what is best for me. I am trying to listen more intently to His voice and find myself less reactive than I once was. Sadly, I still react in ways that do not always honor or glorify Him and must go to Him over again to ask forgiveness and beg His power in my life. I know His hand is on the sparrow, so He is here with me too.

December 1st

November is now past and December is upon us. I am looking forward to some special Christmas programs and outings, some baking and candy making, and, of course, time spent with family. We have decided not to go all out with shopping this year, instead we are choosing to give to a mission of some kind. Why buy things we don't need when so many people are hurting? White elephant gifts will be hiding behind the wrapping paper this holiday season and we will be enjoying our time together without the pressure of choosing the perfect gift for everyone. I think it will be fun.

This afternoon I took Jasmine to the vet. She is not afraid of the vet like some dogs but is quite a pain in the neck when other dogs are nearby. I strategically scheduled her appointment when there would be fewer canines in the office. In spite of that she was plenty hyper and managed to pee on the floor twice. Jazz is healthy, has great looking teeth, and has gained three pounds since her last visit. She needed a rabies shot in order to renew her license, but is now good for another year providing I do not feed her any venison bones. We have been keeping a close eye on her when she goes outside and I removed the "missing dog" notice from the board at the vet's. I plan on keeping her around for a while.

Boston Brown Bread

Both Rachel and I mentioned baking Boston Brown bread for Thanksgiving dinner this year. I looked it up online and found most of the recipes out there to be quite different from the one Mom always made when we were little girls. Mom's recipe is so much easier, requires fewer ingredients and is so yummy that I thought I'd share it with all of you. Use medium sized cans and don't overfill them. My bread always runs over. Not only is it messy, but it spoils the nice crunchy tops that we always fought over as kids. Maybe I should use seven cans instead of six.

BOSTON BROWN BREAD

1 c. raisins
3 c. water
2 c. sugar
4 T. shortening
5 c. flour
4 t. baking soda
1 t. salt

Bring water and raisins to a boil in large saucepan. Turn off heat. Add sugar and shortening. Sift together dry ingredients. Add to raisin mixture. Beat well making sure no large lumps remain. Bake in 6 greased cans at 350° for 1 hour.

It's Saturday!

The string of Saturdays is coming to a close. I wish I could say I accomplished something grand and glorious these past two days, but the truth is I didn't do much of anything yesterday, slept too long this morning, and am looking forward to beginning a new week tomorrow. November will soon be just a memory and December will be upon us. I'm not sure I'm ready for it just yet...

I took the kids out to Webster this afternoon. I went in Bed, Bath and Beyond, Target, and the grocery stores. I don't suppose I am the only one who visits more than one store for groceries. Aldi is great for basics like juice, crackers, and breakfast items (bacon, sausage, frozen tators...), BJ's is like Costco, and I like to buy meat, cheese, and things like hot chocolate or other bulk items in there, and finally Wegman's, the hometown grocery chain, where I buy most of what we really want or need. I rarely shop in Williamson as the grocery store here seems very expensive. With gas prices down it's well worth it to drive to the better stores.

I'm cooking up another pot of turkey soup for supper. We had some last night and it was very good. I'm not sure what I did different this year but this is the best turkey soup I've ever made. Want a taste?

Giving Thanks

Today was Thanksgiving Day. We stuffed and roasted the turkey, peeled and mashed potatoes, warmed the rolls and forgot the cranberry sauce. It was a wonderful family day. We had our whole family, minus Jim, and my parents. Every holiday celebrated with my mom and dad grows more precious with the years. We talked, laughed and shared things we are thankful for. Beth and Adam brought a new game and we worked on the traditional holiday puzzle. Before our tummies signaled hunger, we poured the coffee and served up the pie. I will likely head upstairs to bed still full and toss and turn for a portion of the night. Yesterday felt like Saturday to me, Thanksgiving always feels like Saturday, and I have two more Saturdays ahead before Sunday comes along and sets everything straight again.

Last night we went to church and people had a chance to get up and share a moment of Thanksgiving. I thought about getting up but am still somewhat reserved and so remained in my seat. My son, Dave, got up and thanked the Lord for the opportunity to lead the junior high group at church and the blessing of God teaching him as he prepares the lessons. Had I been braver I would have gotten up and shared that I am thankful God answers prayer and not only that, but He gives encouragement along the way and keeps us trusting in Him. Years ago when my son was struggling, God brought me to my knees and showed me that He really does care personally about me, about my family, and about my son. At one particular time I was reading through the book of Psalms. Each night before I went to sleep I would read a chapter or two, but one night I was particularly tired and discouraged. I didn't feel like reading my Bible. I just wanted to go to sleep, yet I felt as though the Lord was saying, "Read, Martha. I have something special for you tonight." I opened my Bible and turned to the next chapter, Psalm 132. The very first verse says, "LORD, remember David and all his afflictions." In the midst of a mother's struggle to have faith that God would carry her son through, He gave me a verse, a promise that He hadn't forgotten my boy and courage to keep on trusting. Today I am overwhelmed by the power of prayer and a God who loves each one of us in an intimate manner. He truly is good!

See Ya Later Turkey!

This pen was full of fluttering turkeys Sunday afternoon when we came home from church. Today the pen is empty. What ever could have become of all those birds? I snapped the photo back in October when the sun was bright and the days were warm. Wherever those turkeys went, I hope it's warm... with potatoes and cranberry sauce.

Tomorrow is the big day. We'll have a turkey of our own on the table, complete with all the trimmings. I baked three pumpkin pies today and a batch of Boston brown bread. Tomorrow I shall stuff the turkey and pop it into the oven. I am looking forward to a wonderful day surrounded by my family. Mom and Dad will be here and most of our kids. I hope Jim gets a big piece of pumpkin pie tomorrow. He'll be spending Thanksgiving in Minnesota, probably with his friend Dan.

The Turkey Trot

Somewhere out there in the orchard a turkey is running for his life. Ben found his tracks coming from the orchard behind the house, up through our backyard, down the driveway, and off into the orchard across the street. This is a bad time of year to be a turkey even if they are the star of the show.

He would have been relatively safe here as we are not hunters and have never killed or plucked our own fowl... well, aside from Bethany's experience with a tough old rooster. Besides, I already have two fresh birds just waiting in my freezer downstairs.

A Monday Morning Visitor

I finally finished my caned chair. It has an unusual binder because I was too impatient to wait for my husband to drill out the holes before I started the caning process. Now the holes are are too packed with cane to tie on a regular binder. My solution was to find a fabric alternative and sew it on with thick thread. Now it is ready to be donated to the Silent Auction at church.

This weekend I sent out my email list of school books. I've had two responses and also took a bag to church. One response came by way of a phone call this morning. "You don't know me," said the voice on the other end... She told me her mother would be passing my way and could pick up the books this morning. During the course of our conversation she mentioned that she had grown up in Webster but now lived on the opposite side of Rochester. I gave her directions to my house and asked her name. She told me her mother's name... Marie Richards. Now I must say, I have this strange and uncanny way of recalling names and faces from my past and "Marie Richards" rang a bell. "Wait a minute," I said, "I know who you are." I told her my maiden name but she didn't think it was familiar. No surprise to me, I hadn't actually known the daughter. I knew WHO she was, but we were both rather quiet and shy and she was two years older than me. Her mother, on the other hand, was one of those loud, effervescent, friendly individuals, one who everyone tends to notice. They went to a church in my hometown, one where my parents had friends and often visited. Marie led the Missionettes group at her church and also ministered to a family of children who ended up in foster care in our home. When I was in third grade, Marie was my best friend's step-father's step mother (figure that out...). I find it amazing how the world is full of people who are bound to each other by tiny threads of familiarity. I enjoyed my short visit with Marie who is eighty years old and claims to "never get tired". We talked of our connections, she gave me several hugs and the boys helped her by carrying the books out to her car. Today I am thankful for late morning visitor who shines the love of Jesus and is not ashamed.

No Shame

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "The just shall live by faith."

Romans 1:16-17

For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.

2 Timothy 1:12

Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.

1 Peter 4:16

And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming.

1 John 2:29

Cold Weather and Josh Can Cook!

The wind was bitterly cold today. Normally I would choose to stay inside my toasty warm house, venturing out only to gather some firewood or perhaps to let Sofie relieve herself, but today was my day to go shopping so out into the cold wind I went. Ben and Hannah came along because, not only do they need socialization (ha ha), but they also enjoy my company. In spite of our dire economy, the parking lots were packed with cars and the stores with people. We made several stops ourselves, nearly every one requiring a long walk from the car to the relative safety of the store. Now, several hours later I am blessed with another case of chapped lips. Such is the joy of the winter wind and the reason I like to take photos from the doors or windows of my house. I would buy myself a ski mask but I don't think any of the banks or stores I frequent would take kindly to my wearing it.

Josh came to play tonight. His mommy and daddy went out shopping together. Josh wandered around the house, called Sofie a kitty, checked out the cupboard doors, and played with some cars. I decided to get the play dishes out of the toy cabinet and Josh and I cooked up a storm! It's never too early to teach a man to cook just in case he moves far away someday and finds himself in need of cullinary skills. Josh is off to a great start and enjoying every minute of it. Grandmanita, you would be proud!

Sea Glass Surprise!

The other day my friend, Sherri happened to mention how she and her son had collected "oodles"of sea glass on the lake shore in November. I told her she had found a treasure as Alysa and I failed to find even a shard on our trips to the beach this summer. Well, on Wednseday night at church Sherri and her son, Caleb, had a present for me, a little bag of sea glass with a special note inside. What a wonderful surprise! I'm thinking they are pretty brave going to the beach in November.

The Book Drop

A few days ago I was thinking about cleaning out some of my junk. That evening I had an email in my inbox asking if anyone had a specific school math book. I happened to have Saxon Math 76 in my collection and so I emailed back and told the individual they could have mine. Too bad this is the only edition I can't find the test and answers for, but it has inspired me to go through my boxes, sort and toss, and send out a list of what I have to moms who may be looking.

Somehow, in the midst of my book sorting, I also managed to clean out and vacuum inside and under my sectional. It was partly because we needed to change some water in the fish tank but it is another task accomplished none the less. By tomorrow no one will be able to tell it was done, but I know the crumbs and dust bunnies are gone for the moment, and all of Sofie's dog chews have been removed from the dark corners of the sofa where she buried them since the last couch cleaning.

Wonder of wonders, supper is on the stove tonight! Last night I had to pull frozen hamburger patties out of the freezer because I had failed to plan ahead. I also took out a pack of chicken legs which were turned into soup today. It's a cold kind of day, perfect for hot chicken vegetable soup and some bread and peanut butter.

Snovember

Old Man Winter has awoken early this year. I rather wish he would go back to bed for another week or so. I mean, I like him around for Christmas and all, but I'm not ready to haul out the snow shovel just yet. Actually, I have much to be thankful for when the cold weather arrives. I have a warm, dry house, an ample supply of firewood on the back porch, and several family members I can send outside to potty the dog for me. I didn't quite make it through my basket of apples this year. First it was too warm for them to keep well on the back porch and now it is too cold. See? They're covered with snow. I think they're frozen. Oh well, I have several jars of applesauce made and stored away. When it runs out there's always Mott's.

Cold weather is also great for doing inside projects. Maybe I will be inspired to get some things made for Christmas. I still have a Nativity to finish (just the wise men) and I would love to paint some puzzles too. Maybe I'll work on some scrapbooks or photo albums. Or... maybe I'll take a nap.

I'm All Confused

My father called at 7 o'clock this morning. I didn't hear the phone ring but James came upstairs to wake me up and tell me that they had taken my mother to the hospital by ambulance. We prayed for her together and then I got up and took a shower. I wasn't quite sure what or how to think.

Dad had provided little detail and hadn't called either of my sisters. I considered what to do. I had no idea of her problem or condition but an ambulance sounded serious so I decided I needed to call Priscilla and Rachel. By the time we reached the hospital James' cell phone was ringing. It was Ben on the other end saying Grandpa had called and he was taking Grandma back home. Rachel was with us but I had no way to reach Priscilla. (I need to gather some cell phone numbers.) On the way home we stopped at Mom and Dad's house. There was no car in the driveway, just tire tracks and footprints. I still have no idea what happened or why they weren't home when we went back. I'm hoping someone will eventually call to fill me in.

That's me in the picture. I was just getting to know this soft, strong, woman who was my mother and she was just getting to know the tiny, bald person who was her first daughter.

UPDATE- Mom's heart was racing this morning. They called the ambulance and the EMT's agreed her heart rate was much too fast so they took her to the hospital. Once they had her heartbeat slowed down and under control, they started proceedings to have her released and Dad went home to get her some clothes. Priscilla was fortunate to find them in the emergency department but had an old cell phone number for James and none for Rachel. She decided to go out wait for us to let us know what was going on when we arrived. Having been told Mom was gone, of course we never arrived and Mom and Dad left while Priscilla waited. She did finally call here, got a new cell number from the kids, and then went to our parent's house to visit afterward. So, for now all is well and we have learned that we need to keep updated cell phone numbers in case of another emergency.

A Magical Morning

When I stumbled out of my warm blankets this morning and headed for the shower, there was but a dusting of snow on the ground. Later, as I made my rounds of the house, I glanced out my kitchen window toward the west. A dark cloud hung over Lake Ontario in the not so distant sky. "A snowcloud," I thought. By the time Troy arrived at 8:30 am, the sidewalk was covered with a thin sticky blanket of snow. The road was a whitened path leading up the hill. I put on my gloves and jacket and gathered Sofie into my arms. I took Troy along with me to the dog groomer. A few miles south we drove out of the snow and into the sunshine. The road went from snow covered to wet to dry. By the time we reached the groomer's house the sun was shining. We dropped Sofie off and headed back toward the snow which was quickly making its way south.

There is something magical about the first real snow of the season and this was no exception. Being wet and sticky, the flakes stuck to tree branches, highlighting each with a thick line of white. Imagine Narnia during the rule of the White Witch and you will know what our world looked like today. A walk through the woods would have been enchanting if not for the presence of deer hunters. Maybe one day I will walk the thin line of woods over by my mother's house where no hunters wait and it is safe to play in winter.