Our Seasonal Scrapbook

The Christmas season tends to be a time of reflection. It is not uncommon to hear family and friends tell about a favorite Christmas memory. Coming up with the best memory is difficult for me. There are so many great ones, like the year we announced we were expecting our first child, or maybe even better, that first Christmas as parents.


Of course, there are also fond childhood memories, like giving and receiving special gifts and fun times with cousins; or more recent memories of special Christmas mornings begun by reading the Bible stories of Jesus’ birth...


...and then digging into a multitude of gifts and goodies.


While enjoying the beauty of the holiday decorations in our home, I have noticed how the tree itself holds so many favorite memories. Almost every ornament on its branches has a story to tell. Our adorned tree is a seasonal scrapbook that represents special family memories of Christmases past.

The cross-stitched rocking horse was a project begun by Mike’s mom many years ago, but one I completed after discovering the unfinished craft soon after her death. While that first Christmas without Irene is remembered with a touch of sadness, it also holds the precious memory of sharing our home, along with a stocking full of goodies and additional gifts, with Mike’s dad on Christmas morn.


The personalized M&M wreath was given by friends who know of Mike’s love for the chocolate candy. Our family wasn’t quite complete that Christmas; Zachary’s name was added three months later. That next Christmas as a family of five was special, as well.


Six different Disney ornaments represent six years of vacationing at one of our favorite places on earth.


The New York City skyline was added this year, reminding of us our 15th anniversary trip this past spring. Our newest ornament, an Abraham Lincoln nutcracker, was purchased on our trip to Washington, DC last month. We chose a nutcracker because of Nicholas’ fondness for these figures.

Some ornaments were made or bought by Mike or me when we were kids and somehow made their way to our tree. Brandon, as the firstborn, helped make many of the homemade ornaments. Over the years, his brothers have added their creativity.

Several ornaments bring recollections of much loved pets, including our poodle Bisty from Mike's childhood through our newlywed days, along with our current cute and cuddly canine, Baci.


And next year there may be an ornament bearing the name or picture of Zachary’s new gerbil, which he expects to get before the New Year arrives.

Other ornaments tell about past and present interests and activities, including Star Wars, law enforcement, NASCAR, sports, Boyd’s bears, MOPS, music, church, and the South Carolina Gamecocks (with some Clemson to appease Brandon, our sole Tigers fan).

Our Christmas tree with all its distinctive ornaments is a seasonal scrapbook, making it by far the most endearing decoration in our home this time of year. But the tree represents more than just memories. It also represents our relationship with God.

While the ornaments represent God’s blessings in our lives, the evergreen tree is a symbol of His everlasting love. God sent His Son, Jesus, to earth as a baby, which is why we celebrate Christmas. The branches remind us of His outstretched arms as He gave His life on the cross to save us from the punishment we deserve. The gifts beneath remind us of the greatest Gift ever given, Jesus Christ, who didn’t stay in the grave, but came back to life, proving He has power over sin and death.

God offers each person the amazing gift of a relationship with Him through His Son, Jesus. Anyone can receive it by recognizing his/her sinfulness and choosing to trust God, depending totally on Jesus’ death and resurrection as payment for sins. We are so thankful that each person in our family has received God’s gift and is getting to know the Lord more and more each day.

And now, here are a few more memories of Christmases past to add to our Seasonal Scrapbook!






"But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:19

Christmas Readings

This most wonderful time of the year has motivated our family to put aside our typical reading and select several pieces of holiday literature for the season. So what is top on our list this month?

I assigned Brandon A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens, to read for school while his literature class is on hiatus. He devoured the book in a week, appreciating this timeless tale that we watch each Christmas. His daddy followed his lead and also read Dicken's holiday classic.

Brandon refused to stop at one Christmas reading and gave himself quite a goal of having several holiday books read before the big day. He paused from his current venture of completing the Chronicles of Narnia series and the Hardy Boys collection to also read the seasonal stories assigned to Nicholas and Zachary.

Nicholas was able to choose among several options and decided upon the original nutcracker story, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, written in 1816 by E.T.A. Hoffmann. His choice is not surprising to anyone who has observed the abundance of these figures in his room, a collection he began a few years ago. He thoroughly enjoyed the book and anticipates reading Alexander Dumas’ version next year, if he can wait that long.

Zachary’s assigned seasonal reading was The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, by Barbara Robinson. My lack of planning in advance gave him one week to complete this book during our reading time together. Being quite a task for my second grader, we alternated reading sections aloud.

I absolutely love this book and have read it multiple times. Mike and I both remember acting in play versions during our own school days so long ago. I hope our children develop a similar love for it as they learn to appreciate its message of what Christmas is all about. “Hey, unto you a child is born!”

After having read A Christmas Carol last year, this year my holiday reading has included a book my mom loaned me, Christmas at Herrington’s, by Melody Carlson. What I appreciate most about this redemptive, feel-good story is Carlson’s message that while Santa Claus and other traditions are fun, God’s gift of Jesus is what Christmas is really all about.

Today, on the first day of our Christmas school break, I have begun the lofty goal of also reading Hoffman’s nutcracker story before we see the ballet (a condensed, complimentary version for students) tomorrow at noon. Even though this tale is less than 100 pages, it will be quite a feat to complete due to baking, laundry, a party tonight, and other tasks on my agenda for the day. I hope to at least finish the book before Christmas arrives in five days!

Our regular family devotions are suspended in December in order to focus together on special Christmas ones. In past years, we have read prophecies in the whole testimony and the fulfillment of those prophecies by Jesus in the New Testament. Another favorite has been Lisa Whelchel’s book The Adventures of Christmas.

This year we have been reading from a book my brother gave us, The Christmas Countdown, by Margie J. Harding. We are encouraged by the meaningful messages with practical application, but our favorite part has to be the Christmas carols at the end of each lesson. A bit hesitant at first, we now eagerly anticipate singing our best around the living room table at the conclusion of our devotional time.

Our holiday reading will climax on Christmas morning as we gather in our bedroom for our annual tradition of reading the story of Jesus’ birth from the books of Matthew and Luke in the Bible. Jesus is the reason for all of our celebrations, and we want to begin this very special day with our focus on the true meaning of Christmas.

“For there is born to you this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11

Christmas Fun

I’m a bit giddy today! It’s December 16, and Christmas is just over a week away. We are right in the middle of a season full of our favorite traditions, and there is even snow on the ground – a rarity in these parts, especially this time of the year!

We have a selection of DVDs reserved just for this month. We’ve already watched quite a few – the Santa Clause trilogy, Miracle on 34th Street, the Grinch, Garfield’s Christmas, and the Claymation Christmas Celebration. And we have so many more to watch in just nine short days! Our “must sees” that remain include Charlie Brown’s Christmas and It’s a Wonderful Life, among others.

I’m especially excited about tonight. Due to the weather, Mike will be home early. After dinner, we plan to watch another Christmas favorite, The Nativity Story. Then we’ll put the kids to bed, or at least send them to their rooms to read, and Mike and I will start wrapping presents.

The kids would be great helpers, except we have all of their presents mixed in with everyone else’s, so that means “No Kids Allowed” as we sort. Maybe one day we’ll be more organized and divide them separately. But for now, Mike and I will embark alone on sorting and wrapping gifts. Maybe if we don't finish tonight, they will help with what remains.

We love parties this time of the year, too! We have already celebrated the holiday with several groups from Mike’s work. The days ahead hold more festivities (weather pending), as we look forward to gatherings with our Sunday school class, the police department, our Disney friends, and extended family.

Perhaps no tradition is more special to us right now than Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with our own children at home. December 24th will include a meal of little pigs in the blanket, roasted potatoes, baked beans, and fruit – very simple, but loved by all! There may be a few surprise gifts ready to open, as well! Later, we will drive to the Christmas Eve service at our church. Upon returning home, the boys will set out their rugs and stockings in the living room and head to bed unusually early.

Christmas Day will begin with the kids coming straight to our bedroom, slipping into the bed, and listening to Mike read the accounts of Jesus’ birth from the Bible. After a prayer of thanksgiving for all God has done for us, including not only the gifts that await us, but most of all the Gift of His Son Jesus, Mike and I will grab the cameras and proceed to the living room.

When given the go ahead, the boys will run straight for their designated rugs. After a time of pure delight (and in Nicholas’ case, shouts and screams) over their new toys and gadgets, they will look through their stockings. Mike and I also have a stocking for one another, so we will follow their lead in searching through the big, red socks and finding our favorite treats.

After pausing for our traditional holiday breakfast of cinnamon rolls, gift giving will resume as the boys bestow presents to one another and to us. Next will come a few “surprise” gifts to the family from such figures as Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, Frosty, and Rudolph. Mike and I will conclude this time by exchanging our presents to one another.

It is not long before we’ll be ready for our Christmas brunch – French toast, grits, and orange juice. The rest of the day is designated for playing, calling grandparents, and playing some more. After enjoying leftovers from our Christmas Eve meal, we will conclude the day with one of our favorite holiday classics, A Christmas Carol.

Without a doubt, we are looking forward to the days ahead. God has blessed us in so many ways. Our traditions may change over the years, but God never will. The miracle of Christmas – God sending His Son to earth for us – is a timeless gift to all. His gift of Jesus is the source of our family's joy and the reason for our celebrations.

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” 2 Corinthians 9:15

Remembering

Throughout the year on both special occasions and in the ordinary moments of life, our thoughts turn to a beloved family member who passed away over 14 years ago, Mike’s mom Irene. Today, on what would have been her 69th birthday, we are once again remembering her.

While grief and sorrow subside over time, our longing for her presence in our daily lives never fades away. Numerous times we have wished for her company – to glean her wisdom, to hear her sweet voice, to see her love on our children, and to feel her own precious arms around our necks.

Our children never met their grandmother, who passed away two years before Brandon’s birth. However, we are intentional in making sure they know her.

She was a creative lady, often cross-stitching or knitting. Zachary remembers her throughout the Christmas season as the one who made his daddy's stocking. Gifted musically, she played the piano in church and sang in the choir. As her family's chef, she started the tradition of baking a yellow cake, adding homemade chocolate icing, and decorating it with M&Ms. She even made it for our rehearsal dinner!

If ever there was a sentimental person, it was my mother-in-law. She saved everything, even her sons' spelling tests from elementary school. Every item touched by her boys was, in her mind, worth preserving. While this can be taken to an extreme, it also indicates how special her children were to her and how difficult it was to let them go.

However, she did not try to manipulate her boys’ lives. While she would have preferred that Mike choose a safer occupation, she supported him in his desire to be in the Army and in law enforcement. She was concerned, but she trusted the Lord to take care of the son He had entrusted to her to raise.

Sweet and generous, my mother-in-law did not withhold gifts from her family. Often unexpected and not intended for any particular holiday, the items let us know we were in her thoughts.

One characteristic of his mom that Mike remembers most is her willingness to listen. No subject was unimportant to her and she was always available. She wanted to hear what was happening in her family’s lives. She would listen and advise, always with love and never with harsh judgment.

Irene had a lot of spunk, too. She would unhesitatingly stand up for what she believed in. And you better not say a word against her family or her God; she would defend both in an instant! She was a loyal lady, particularly to those she loved.

Her love for her family was tremendous, and I know she would have felt the same for my boys. This incredible love would have led her to make every effort possible to call them, listen to their stories, ask about their lives, and be at special events. She would have been interested in and proud of all they did – from trivial matters to earthly successes to more important spiritual matters.

Family was important to her, and she would as much as possible sacrifice her own agenda or expenses to be with those she loved. But Irene loved the Lord as well, so much so that she, her husband, and 12 year-old Mike left everything precious in their lives to obey the Lord and move overseas to be missionaries. That was no easy decision for one so clearly devoted to both her extended family and, most of all, the older son she would also leave behind. Yet she understood all the Lord had done for her and that He was the one who gave her not only family, but life itself. She wanted others around the world to know God too.

Her love for the Lord carried over into every relationship she had. She loved all people – her family, her friends, fellow missionaries, former church members, and the congregation of Rome Baptist Church, which included people of many different tribes, tongues, and nations. And they loved her, as was evident by the vast number of people in attendance at her funeral and all of the kind notes and deeds that followed.

Mike’s mom was a special lady, and we will always wish we could have shared more years on earth together. Her wise advice, compassionate heart, and unconditional love would have been a priceless addition to our lives. But we are thankful for the time we did have with her and that we are able to tell our boys all about their grandma. We trust the Lord’s plan to take her to her heavenly home 14 years ago. Our family is full of peace and faith that we will see her again one day.

Still, we miss her.


“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,” Philippians 1:3

Christmas Cards

There is much excitement in the month of December as Christmas Day draws near. Daily visits by the mailman only add to the thrill. Will there be a Christmas card for us today? How many? From whom?

But my delight in this age-old tradition is being diminished. To put it frankly, we just don’t get many cards anymore, making those December visits by our postal worker quite a letdown. With some hesitation, I will humbly admit that I am often left disappointed.

I remember past years when several cards came almost every day of this month. Today is December 9, and so far, we have only received three. And to be honest, one probably should not even count because it was given to me by the leader of a local Mothers of Preschoolers group to express appreciation after speaking to the ladies there. (But I am counting it!)

I first noticed a dramatic reduction in the amount of cards we received two years ago – about the time social networks were rising in popularity. Last year, after finally succumbing to the pressure and getting my own Facebook account, the numbers of cards decreased even more.

Despite the obvious connection, I still felt a certain degree of rejection from those who had for so many years sent a card. Yes, we are Facebook friends with many of them now, meaning we see and hear all about one another’s lives. Yet, I still yearn for the yearly Christmas greeting.

I blame technology, which has made it relatively easy to keep in touch instantly with family and friends all year long, making the annual Christmas card and letter completely unnecessary. Then there is the economy. Stamp prices are rising while salaries are not. And let’s not forget how busy life is for everyone. Who really has time to buy and address Christmas cards, much less take family pictures or write a letter?

After many days of an empty mailbox threatening my joy with whispers of rejection and attempting to turn me into a Grinch, I have come to terms with the fact that perhaps the act of sending Christmas cards is on its last days. My grandchildren may not even know what a Christmas card is unless they visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and see one encased in a box as a protected and valued rarity.

The Lord has had compassion on me and comforted me in this matter. You see, I can open up His Word, the Bible, and read messages even more meaningful than I could ever find when opening my mailbox. God Himself speaks to me, sharing special notes of encouragement, guidance, instruction, and love. He reminds me of what Christmas is all about with stories of Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection. I can even read the words of Jesus himself! God’s Christmas greetings abound throughout the entire Bible and fill all of my needs more than any mailbox full of Christmas cards ever can.

My joy will not be stolen. While Christmas cards are fun, they are not what Christmas is all about. Besides, the best Christmas card ever has been delivered to our home, written by God Himself!

But if you would like to send us a card, please do. Your holiday greetings would be a delight to our family this Christmas season!

“…for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day…” Acts 17:11

Decorating for Christmas

The Christmas season has begun. Evidence of it explodes all around us. Decorations have arrived in stores and neighborhoods, even though the first day of December has not. Our home is no different.

This season abounds with traditions. This year, we continued the tradition of putting up our Christmas tree and decorating our home the weekend before Thanksgiving. Now, before the lecture begins about how we have overlooked an important holiday to rush to a more celebrated one, let me explain.

Because we love thinking about all of the blessings in our lives, because we love the history associated with it, and because we spend it with our extended families, Thanksgiving is an important holiday to us. We have no desire to ignore it, but for practical reasons, we must put up our Christmas tree before we sit down to our turkey dinner. We simply enjoy returning from our travels to a home all ready for the Christmas season.

Often when our pre-Thanksgiving decorating weekend arrives, I am caught by surprised. Is it really that time of the year already? This year, the weather was unusually warm and baseball season unexpectedly long. Therefore, when the calendar stated it was time to trim the tree, I was ready to argue with it. But no, it was correct, as calendars usually are.

So two Saturdays ago, we pulled out the boxes of decorations, including our tree, and we continued the tradition we started over a decade ago. We had a lot of fun, too, as we adorned ourselves with Santa hats and began.


As customary, I decorated the house by hanging stockings, setting out manger scenes, and setting the table, while Mike and the boys put up the trees and added the lights and stars. As soon as the tree skirt was placed around the tree, Brandon quickly disappeared, yet soon returned with the first present to be placed beneath it. He surprised his daddy, who usually wins this unacknowledged competition. Before I knew it, all four of my guys had vanished. They soon reappeared with more gifts to place under our still ornament-less tree!

The decorating continued, and as we’ve done since Nicholas was a baby in my belly, I unwrapped all the ornaments, the boys put them on the trees, and Mike supervised, hanging the especially delicate ones and making sure all were distributed relatively evenly.

This year, we added another tree to our home – a thin, six foot tree for the boys to decorate mostly with their homemade ornaments. It sits in front of the dining room window. Our larger, thicker tree is centered in our home and shows no evidence of losing ornaments to its younger “sibling”.

As in years past, the boys helped Mike hang lights outside and assisted me in hanging the garland on the front porch. When night fell, we ooh-ed and aah-ed over the beauty of our lit up home. We concluded our memorable night of welcoming in the Christmas season by watching a favorite Christmas movie while enjoying mugs of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. I’ll remember it as a perfect day!


Traditions are so much fun, and we anticipate many more in the days ahead as Christmas approaches. As we enjoy some of our beloved traditions this season, I will cherish them for the precious times they are, while remembering that it is not the traditions we are celebrating, but rather the birth of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, who came to earth so long ago to be our Savior. Traditions tend to evolve or fade away as children grow up and circumstances change, but God’s love and our salvation through His Son Jesus are everlasting!

“For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

More Blessings

After listing several of the many blessings in my life, it is now time for the boys to share what they have been most thankful for lately.

Zachary:
-I thank God for giving me a new friend that I met at Sparks this year. Isaac is a good friend.
-I thank God for letting me go on a date with my mom. I like spending time alone with her.
-I thank God for helping me use better words and finish my chart.
-I am thankful that I can do crafts. Mama’s friend taught me to sew, and I like to sew pictures on fabric.
-It was a blessing to be able to be the catcher in some of my baseball games.
-I am thankful for my grandparents and that I can visit them at Thanksgiving.
-Christmas coming makes me happy because it is fun to celebrate Jesus’ birthday.

Nicholas:
-I was blessed to spend a whole week with my grandparents while Mom and Dad were in New York. I was also blessed to spend two vacations at Disney World with my other grandparents, and I’m looking forward to going with them again next year.
-It was a blessing to be able to pitch in a few of my baseball games this fall.
-I think Scype is a blessing because I can talk to my friend Kaleb, who moved to Oklahoma.
-I am thankful for my neighborhood and think it is beautiful. I like the butterflies in the spring and the trees in the fall.
-I had fun decorating a few days ago for Christmas because Christmas is a time to remember Jesus’ birth.
-I am also thankful for my parents, my brothers, my dog, my friends, and my house.

Brandon:
-I was blessed recently by being able to help my dad paint our deck at home. It taught me a new skill, and I enjoyed working with my dad. I was surprised when my parents paid me afterwards for helping. The payment is a blessing because I am trying to earn money to buy coins for my collection.
-Another blessing was being able to play at one of my best friend’s house, who lives next door to another one of my best friends. The three of us always have a good time together.
-Most recently, I was blessed to go to a 1-1-Six Clique Concert of Christian hip-hop/rapping artists, including LeCrae. It was an awesome time with Dad and Nicholas.
-I am also thankful for my family, my dog, my house, my own room, my Star Wars and G.I. Joe collections, and my coin collection. I am thankful to God for giving me all of these blessings and also for His Son Jesus who sacrificed His life so that I can have eternal life in Heaven with Him one day.

“We give thanks to you, oh God, we give thanks!” Psalm 75:1a

Blessings

It’s that time of year… time for counting blessings! Actually, I believe that every day we should be taking note of all we have to be thankful for. But with Thanksgiving less than a week away, I’ll take this opportunity to name a few of the many blessings in my life.

My relationship with God blesses me more than anything else. It is the umbrella that covers my entire life, sheltering me with peace, love, and contentment in all situations.

Other blessings in life are obvious – family, friends, health, and home, for example - yet they are still incredible gifts not to be overlooked or taken for granted.

This Thanksgiving, I am also noting some more recent and specific blessings.

I think daily of what a gift God has given to me in my husband. I love spending time with Mike.


Despite the busyness of life lately, we were able to carve out time for a date a couple of weeks ago. Relaxing with my sweetheart over dinner and a movie is truly special during this season of life when we aren’t often alone. Mike also surprised me recently with a thoughtful gift (Mandisa’s Christmas CD) and a Sunday lunch at our favorite Mexican restaurant (a day off from cooking).

My three boys are obvious blessings, as well. The gift of children is not to be taken for granted, and their very lives are enough reason to rejoice. But they also go above and beyond with their helpfulness, kindness, and unconditional love.


Brandon recently spent a weekend helping Mike paint the deck. Not a complaint was heard from our oldest son during his ten hours of hard, manual labor. I appreciate his willingness to lend a hand inside the house, as well, without uttering a single groan about the task assigned to him.

Nicholas often wants to take care of me. One evening, at a particularly chilly baseball game, I sat shivering in my chair despite layers of clothes and covers. Nicholas decided to snuggle under the blankets with me. Upon realizing how cold my hands were, he took them in his own and began rubbing them to warm me up. Such a sweet gesture and a blessing to this mama!

Zachary blessed me with his words recently. On a date together, he exclaimed, “It’s so great to have a mom!” As we talked about what dating means, he commended me for choosing his daddy to be my husband. “He’s a good Christian dad who takes care of us and is a nice person.”

Later on the date, as we stopped to pick up a few necessary items, including some hair coloring, he begged, “Mom, please don’t get that. I like your hair the color it is now.” Complete with dark roots and gray hairs peaking through!

Our parents distribute their share of blessings, as well. Those “too few” days with my mom spending hours not only shopping, but also chatting over fraps at Starbucks are treasured times. My dad sharing details of our family’s history, which included his early days dating my mom, was a special moment on their most recent visit to our home. And Mike's parents' eager anticipation and excitement about our next Disney trip together, almost a year away, puts a big smile on my face.

I am always blessed when I talk to my grandmother on Sunday afternoons. She loves me tremendously, I have no doubt!

Blessings also come from godly friends, especially those who say they will pray for you and actually do. I recently asked for prayer as I prepare to speak to a local group of moms soon. Within days, God provided several unexpected moments of quiet time to get focused and organize my notes. Answered prayers, along with those who offered them, are blessings!

Words of encouragement tend to be simple gifts that bless me at the most unexpected times. An aunt recently encouraged me to continue keeping in touch, letting me know she appreciates my efforts. More encouragement came from another aunt who suggested I am following my grandmother’s footsteps by teaching certain values to the boys.

Several friends have encouraged me with their kind words about my writing, others as they have trusted me to listen to and pray for them. One friend blessed me by her generosity not only to me, but also to Zachary.

There are so many blessings in my life! Reflecting on them at first caused some concern that I was being self-centered. After all, I am joyful because of all the good that has happened to me. But isn’t that what blessings are - benefits that brings happiness? God, the giver of blessings, desires to see us encouraged and enjoy the life He has given us. I thank God for all that He has blessed me with and for each person He has used to distribute those blessings.

“Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving…” Psalm 95:2a

Persistency Pays!

Do you remember those verses in the Bible about the friend who incessantly nags his neighbor for bread? Exasperated, the neighbor finally relents, shouting, “Fine! Just take it and be done with it!" The friend contentedly gathers the loaves and returns home.

Okay, so perhaps my retelling of this parable is a bit skewed, but the point remains: persistency pays.

This story has been popping into my mind lately because of a trait I have recently noticed in my youngest son, Zachary: persistency! Polite, yet determined, he does not yield when his mind is set on a matter.

Just ask my friend, Stephanie, who spent a few days in our home recently.

A skilled artisan, Stephanie’s talents exceed those of most when it comes to crafts. Zachary, upon discovering that she is also adept at sewing, was insistent that she teach him this skill. In the few short, yet eventful days she was visiting with us, he did not relent in asking her to spend some time instructing him in the basics of stitchery.

Finally, just before her departure and with only a few minutes to spare, she granted him his desire. By the time Stephanie arrived at her own home a few hours later, Zachary had sewn a patch on his Sparks vest.

Learn to sew: check. Persistency pays!

Zachary’s baseball coach could attest to his resolve, as well. Over halfway into the fall season, Zachary decided he wanted to play catcher. The team already had a catcher, but Zachary felt he could be rotated in from time to time. He asked the coach, and was rewarded with a couple of innings of play in his new position.

But it was short-lived. He was soon back to rotating between 2nd base, 3rd base, and left field – all fine positions, but not the one he wanted. With steadfast resolve, he asked before and after each game and between every inning, yet continued to be turned down. Nevertheless, he refused to give up.

And then one night, we received a phone call from the coach. He had spare catcher’s gear (which Zachary had asked to borrow – several times!) and was calling to see if we had time to get it before the next game. Not only would Zachary be able to practice with the gear for a few days, but he was also promised the opportunity to play his much longed for position in the next game, at least for an inning or two.

Consequently, his notable proficiency as catcher during that game resulted in playing his desired position the rest of the season!

Play catcher: check. Persistency pays!

As an adult and a parent, I do understand that perpetual pleading can be both annoying and disrespectful. I do not want to encourage my children to keep asking just to fulfill selfish desires. They must learn to accept no as the final answer.

Yet sometimes persistency is needed to make desires known and skills recognized. Politely being persistent in order to pursue a longing that God has placed on your heart and perhaps even molded you for is a commendable character trait that Mike and I resolve not to discourage in our children. At the same time, we will make every effort to teach them to employ it in the right manner and with a proper understanding of when to keep asking and when to let the matter go.

“…yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs.” Luke 11:9

Family Vacation 2010: Washington, D.C.

For the past six years, our family vacation has been spent at one of our favorite places, Disney World. We made an exception to our trend this year. While we love Disney, we also like to explore other destinations, especially given all of the history that surrounds us in the South and along the eastern coast of America. Because Mike and I traveled to New York City alone in the spring to celebrate our fifteenth wedding anniversary, we decided to take a quick weekend trip with the boys to Washington, D.C., as a fall get-away.


Washington, D.C., is full of history – not only past history, but also history in the making. We considered our excursion both a family vacation and a field trip, and determined to see as much as we possibly could in the three days we committed to our nation's capital.

Leading up to the trip, the boys researched the site they most wanted to visit. Brandon chose the Smithsonian Museums, Nicholas selected the Jefferson Memorial, and Zachary picked the National Zoo. Each gathered information about his chosen location, providing historical facts and helpful planning details for our vacation.

We left our house early on a Friday morning and arrived in D. C. before 10am. After a ride on the Metro, we ate a picnic lunch while waiting for our tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to begin. After learning all about how money is made, we began our trek through the memorials and monuments along the National Mall, beginning with the Jefferson Memorial.

Tied with the Washington Monument as his favorite, Nicholas was most excited about seeing the Jefferson Memorial. “I like the big statue of Thomas Jefferson and his sayings on the wall around it,” he explained.


After seeing all the sites along the Mall, we walked past the White House on our way to dinner at Bertucci’s, a favorite pizza place from the summer Mike and I lived in the city over 13 years ago. Even better than we remembered, we devoured our delicious tomato and zucchini pizza and even returned the following night for another one!

Our second day in the city began with a trip to see the Iwo Jima statue and a walk through Arlington Cemetery. We then rode the Metro to the National Zoo, Zachary’s favorite place on this trip, “… because it has so many animals, and I love animals!”


The remainder of the day and most of the following were spent at four of the Smithsonian Museums. Several times we heard Brandon say, “I wish I had more time to read all of the information about everything we are looking at.” His enthusiasm, as well as that of his brothers, encouraged and excited us as parents. Without hesitation, the boys unanimously agreed that their favorite museum was the Museum of Natural History because of all the dinosaur bones and animals.


Our tour of the city on our final day also included Ford’s Theater, the National Archives, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, and the Navy Memorial. The latter two were especially moving because of personal and family connections.

On this educational vacation, we walked over 20 miles to look at numerous monuments, museums, documents, and buildings which celebrate our country’s birth and growth. Each is a great reminder of the sacrifices which have been and continue to be made in order for America to be the great country it is.


Despite struggles and trials, God’s countless blessings on our young nation are obvious to anyone who takes time to delve into history with open eyes. It is our prayer that Americans will give God the glory He deserves as they recognize His hand in our history and His work through dedicated and courageous leaders, as well as ordinary citizens. Only then will He continue to bless our great country.

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…” Psalm 33:12

The Life of a Dog

Our family considers itself a “dog” family. We love these particular pets for their cuteness, friendliness, and perhaps most of all, because no one in our home is allergic to them. Mike and I owned an adorable, black poodle in our newlywed days. Mike’s puppy from middle school was eleven years-old when we got married. Sadly, she passed away just a few months before Brandon’s birth.

We knew we wanted another dog one day, but our circumstances did not allow it for a few years. In the meantime, we adopted a guinea pig who was, ironically, born in our own home while we babysat the kindergarten class pets during a track out. When Reese Cup died four years later, our “planned” time for getting a dog was moved up a few months, and the hunt began. Our search resulted in a black and brown cockapoo whom we added to our family two and half years ago.

Several years before she was even born, we chose the name Baci for our puppy. We knew we wanted a small black dog that we would name after our favorite candy, a chocolate-hazelnut delicacy made in Italy whose name means “kisses”.

Baci lives up to her name more than any man or beast I have ever known lives up to the name given to it! She loves to lick all over our hands and faces. And whenever Mike and I kiss on the couch - yes, after 15 years of marriage, we still kiss on the couch - it is as if an alarm has sounded. She stops whatever she is doing (usually sleeping) and tries her best to get in on the smooching!

Studying about the canine family in science class has helped us understand our little pup better. Dogs are pack animals, meaning they naturally like to live in groups. Even a tame dog put into the wild will quickly find a pack and establish its role in the group.

Within each pack, there is an alpha male (a.k.a. Mike in our family) and an alpha female (a.k.a. me). Baci clearly understands who is in charge and submits to our authority, for the most part. The rest of the pack consists of her “brothers” – Brandon, Nicholas, and Zachary. She is one of them.

Dogs will compete with one another for rank, and Baci seems to do the same with the boys, in a friendly, albeit annoying way. For example, she rings the bell on the front door to "go out” many times throughout the day, more than any creature God has made should ever need to relieve itself. I believe this is her way of fighting for some control.

Dogs also have specific duties within their pack. Baci has learned her duties: to greet visitors, to clean out the trash, and to dry the bathtub after the boys have showered. Of course, her job results in frightened guests, pieces of torn tissue all over the floor, and wet paw prints on the furniture. Yet, despite these hardships, she continues to do her duty faithfully. ** sigh **

Baci unintentionally teaches us a lot about life, as well. She displays a variety of traits that Christians should reflect: remorse, obedience, contentment, and unconditional love, to name just a few.

I often wish my dog was as well-trained as my children usually are. However, on any given day, I just do not have the energy and motivation to put into her discipline like I have put into my own offspring. Additionally, I know that she can never have a personal relationship with her Creator or a heart to please Him like my boys now have. So her obedience training is often neglected.


Still, she is making progress, and it is a joy to have one of God’s cutest creatures living in our home.


“And God made the beast of the earth according to its kind…. And God saw that it was good.” Genesis 1:25

The Significance of Being "Mom"

(The following is a brief summary of a talk I was able to give several times over the past couple of months to various moms’ groups in our community. While the majority was taken from my own life experiences and those of other women I have talked with, some points were taken from Elisa Morgan and Carol Kuykendall’s book What Every Mom Needs, 1995.)

I think if you ask anyone if being a mom is an important job, they will respond with an enthusiastic, “Absolutely!” Very few will deny the significance of this title. After all, most people can at least acknowledge the great influence –albeit positive or negative – their mother had in their own lives, testifying of her impact on who they are now.

The dilemma is not with acknowledging a mom’s significance, but rather that the acknowledgement is rarely acted upon. No matter how much is said about a mom being important, society frequently fails to show it and instead gives signals that send the opposite message.

Our world tends to define the “best and brightest” as those with high paying jobs, fancy professional titles, or even extensive volunteer service. While these are all admirable accomplishments, the worth of a mom is often overlooked. These mixed signals lead to moms not feeling very important and, time and again, result in unsatisfied women looking for fulfillment elsewhere.

As a mom, I have had these thoughts myself and don’t always feel that my role is meaningful. I stay at home most days, have no paycheck, rarely see immediate results of my work, and am tired despite the fact that little seems to have been accomplished. If I then begin to compare myself to others, such as my husband, who is in law enforcement and is viewed by myself and many others as a hero for protecting the community, I can really start to feel insignificant.

Despite my feelings, however, I know that being a mom is important. I am increasingly aware of the impact my decisions and actions have had on my children. I know that what I am doing is making a difference in their lives as I watch their physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual development.

My role makes a difference in my husband’s life, as well. He is able to focus on providing for our family, knowing with confidence that while he is at work, his children are taken care of by a mom who loves them dearly.

Being a mom is making a difference in my life, too. As my boys are getting older and becoming more and more independent and responsible, they are blessing me with acts of love and consideration to those both within and outside of our home. I am able to enjoy them because of the time I have devoted and continue to give to their upbringing.

Most important of all, I know that God considers moms important. God created each mom for her role and instructs her children to honor her for that role.

If I ever start to doubt how God feels about mothers, I need only to turn to John 19:25-27 to read how Jesus, in the midst of pain, agony, and death on a cross, was making sure someone would take care of his mother when he was no longer on this earth. In the midst of my suffering, do I think of my mom? Well, maybe, but only in a selfish way of wanting her to take care of me like she did when I was a child. In the midst of my suffering, I’m usually thinking only of myself. But what was Jesus thinking of? Taking care of his mom! How could I doubt this important role in light of that fact!

So to all moms, even though there will be times when do not feel important, I hope you know that you are and will always remember that your role as a mom is one of great significance!

“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Proverbs 31:28

Little Things

“Mom, we need to have a talk.”

On more than one occasion, we have been blessed to hear these words by our sons. It is important to us that our children know we are here for them and that they can talk to us about anything going on in their lives. We are a safe place for them, and as they approach us with honesty and sincerity, we want to guide and help them as best as we can, no matter what may be going on.

In this particular instance, the words were coming from Nicholas, as is most often the case. As I was kissing him goodnight before bed, he informed me that he had a problem. Before he could continue, my mind quickly considered a variety of issues that could be wrong – a difficult school assignment, a physical ailment, or a pesky brother.

“It’s when you’re praying during our devotional time after supper, Mom.” Hmmm… me? Was I ready for this?

“Go ahead, Nicholas.”

“Mom, when you’re praying, I just can’t pay attention because all I’m thinking about is the dessert I get after the prayer. I know that isn’t good and that I need help. I don’t know what to do.”

Whew… so that’s it. Something perfectly normal for a little boy (or grown man) to go through. Yet his sincerity was convicting. After all, how many times does my own mind wander during prayers at church, home, or elsewhere? And perhaps even more, how many times have I thought of my wandering mind as a problem?

Nicholas and I addressed the issue that was disturbing him so much. We talked about how to deal with distractions that may weaken his relationship with God. With this particular situation, we discussed his options, and he decided that he should have his treat taken away so that it could no longer be a distraction. He determined that when he was able to focus on the prayer again, he could then start receiving the dessert that followed it.

Empowered by God’s strength and a desire for a piece of candy, it did not take long for my nine year-old to vanquish the treat from his mind as I prayed. I had suggested that he repeat the words of the prayer in his mind so that his focus was no longer on dessert. It worked immediately, and a day has not gone by when he has not received an after-dinner delicacy because of his lack of concentration during prayer time.

Nicholas’ heart to do what is right and his desire to keep God first is precious. Furthermore, his sensitivity is teaching me a lesson. Certainly, I want to be aware of distractions that separate me from my Lord. But I also want to be bothered by those small things that I often overlook as normal or excusable. I want to be bothered by the “little” sins in my life as much as I am by the “big” sins. God is equally displeased with both. I should be, too.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” Matthew 6:33

Recent Readings

I cannot remember a time in my life when I did not enjoy reading. With each year that passes, my fondness and appreciation for this diversion grows more and more. As life gets busier, those intimate times with a good book are few and far between, yet they continue to be a draw that I cannot easily resist.

Mike likes to read also, although not as much as he enjoys other recreational activities. While it may take him much longer than the kids or me to finish a book (not because of a lack of intelligence at all, but only because of other commitments and interests), he almost always has one he is working on.

The boys have developed a love for reading as well. So although we do not always have as much time to read as we would like, we continue to make our hobby a priority. During this summer’s record-breaking days of sweltering heat, grabbing a comfy spot in a cool room with a captivating book became a favorite pastime of ours on scorching afternoons.

Here are some of our most recent favorite reads and what we love about them enough to recommend them to others:

The Peter and the Starcatchers series by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson is a family favorite. My nephew first introduced us to these Peter Pan adventure stories. Brandon and I read them and were hooked on the series. Mike caught our enthusiasm and was quickly captivated. This past summer, Nicholas overcame his fear of “thick” books and read the entire series as well. We are all eagerly anticipating the day when Zachary is able to tackle these beloved tales.

After attending a writing workshop last spring by author Bryan Davis, Brandon became a big fan of this Christian-fiction writer. He reads anything he can get his hands on by Davis and has completed Starlight and the Dragons in our Midst series. Nicholas is currently reading the series and also enjoying these exciting fantasies.

Mike, Brandon, and I studied Paul Tripp’s book Know Why You Believe this summer. We would gather together two nights a week after the younger boys went to bed to talk about each chapter. This time of discussion not only helped Brandon better understand and articulate the details his faith, but it also gave Mike and me precious times of meaningful conversation with our firstborn.

One of the most helpful books I have read recently is Raising Real Men by Hal and Melanie Young. Packed with practical tips for raising sons to become strong, godly gentlemen, I highly recommend it to all parents of boys.

One of my most cherished times this past summer were the days Zachary would cuddle beside me on my bed as I read classic works of fiction to him. (To be accurate, he started with cuddling, but that quickly became tumbling and rolling around, although without a doubt, his interest was held by these novels.) We agree that one of the most beloved novels we read together is Gentle Ben by Walt Morey. This heart touching story of a young, Alaskan boy and his massive pet bear should be read by everyone.

So many wonderful books exist. Other favorites read recently in our home include: King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table by Sydney Lanier, The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, the Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne, Black Beauty by Anna Sewell, and Little Men by Louisa May Alcott. Again, these are just a few in a list of many great books.

One book we continue to read and will never put away on a shelf is the Bible. Each of us regularly spends time in God’s Word. It is worthy of our attention and devotion, because the words in this great Book are words from the Lord God Himself - words of life, hope, encouragement, instruction, and above all, love. It is a must-read every day!

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness….” 2 Timothy 3:16

Zachary's Sermon Notes

Since age five, our children have been sitting with us in "big" church. I cannot claim this as a personal conviction, but rather a necessity since there is no class provided at our church for kindergartners and older children during the worship hour.

Despite our lack of choice in the matter, we appreciate it and consider it a great opportunity to instruct the boys on how to participate in corporate worship of our Heavenly Father. The Sunday morning training is not always easy, and occasionally we leave frustrated and feeling like our own worship experience has been far less than ideal.

And then, some days are true blessings, like this morning.

Our expectations for Zachary, age 7, are that he reads the Scripture passage to himself once the sermon begins and then completes the sermon outline given in the children’s bulletin. After completing these tasks, he is free to draw as he listens, but he must not talk, pass notes, or play games (like tick tack toe) with other children.

Today, while listening to a sermon on being selfless, he exceeded our expectations. I give partial credit to his fifth grade friend, Katie, who sat beside him. She did not have a children’s bulletin, yet took some notes and copied down Scripture references as the pastor mentioned them. I appreciate her positive example and the parents who are raising her.

Zachary also took notes this morning, which blessed me and will always be precious to me! Here is what he wrote:

-dont blert out stuff without thinking
this is hard.
-dont let strangers in your house
-dont start a fite
-love others
-pay otinchun [attention]
-tell others about God if you our a cristhten you go to heven
-dont beg
-help others in need
-love God wership only God
-dont wership idles
-Be nice
-dont make fun of others
-act good
-dont use bad werds

So maybe we need to work on spelling and sentence structure a bit, but I'll take these grammatically incorrect sermons notes from my youngest son over perfectly written pointless words any day. I am encouraged that God's Word and desires are growing in his young heart more each day.

“At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.’ ” Matthew 11:25

Obedience

Obedience is often difficult, especially for children. I remember my own childhood and the passion I had to follow my own way, the way that seemed best in my eyes, instead of my parents’ ways. Even now, I find God’s Word much easier to understand than it is to follow.

While my oldest son Brandon wrestles with certain temptations from time to time, obedience is not a struggle for him. As a toddler who just moved into his big boy bed, he needed only one correction to learn that staying in the bed, as Mommy and Daddy instructed, was the best way. After several years of Brandon continuing to ask us before getting out of bed, we finally understood that we must formally give him freedom to get up as he deemed appropriate. Permission was all he was waiting for.

His desire to obey is still strong. During the warmer months, I often take the boys on bike rides around the neighborhood. Brandon has been riding his bike so long he recently outgrew his helmet and graduated to an adult one. However, despite his experience, this summer he insisted on not changing the gears of his twenty-one speed mountain bike, claiming Dad told him not to.

It baffled me why Mike wanted Brandon, at his age and ability, to leave the gears alone. However, I encouraged him to get approval first. When he asked, Mike did not even remember this command until Brandon reminded him that it was given to him the day he got his new bike… over two years ago!

These incidences are not exceptions with Brandon. He rarely complains and is very obedient, almost always responding to our requests or commands with “yes ma’am” or “yes sir”. He does what is asked, whether it is taking out the trash, vacuuming the living room, or watering the garden. As his parents, we greatly appreciate this trait and must make sure we do not take advantage of it.

I recently asked Brandon why he obeyed so quickly. He casually responded, “The Bible tells me to,” as he headed outside, eager to ride his bike and excited about his newfound freedom to change the gears!

May we all have a strong faith and great desire to quickly obey our Heavenly Father!

“Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them, and with their children forever!” Deuteronomy 5:29

Silly Bandz - The Fad of 2010

Without a doubt, this year will be remembered in pop culture history as being the year of the Silly Bandz! I can think of no recent fads that have had quite the appeal as these colorful, multi-shaped bracelets.

I remember seeing them for the first time several months ago on the wrists of some boys at church. “What in the world are they wearing?” I thought. It appeared as if a rainbow of rubber bands had taken over half of their arms.

My first reaction, after hearing their explanation, was to brush it off. Who would pay for animal, sports, and various shaped rubber bands that seemed to have no real purpose? The absurdity of it led me to discard it as a short-lived craze…

…until my own boys started asking, no, pleading for the trinkets.

Because I was in no rush to purchase the bandz, other kids took pity on my own. Consequently, I became both surprised and impressed with the bigheartedness of other children as they offered bracelets to my “deprived” boys. That is when I began noticing that some trends, as petty as they seem, can bring out the best in others. Here is what I have noticed during the Silly Bandz phase:

*Kids are full of compassion and generosity. When my boys had no bandz, others were quick to offer one of their own with no expectations of anything in return.

*Kids learn from one another. As beneficiaries of the charity of others, my boys and others have freely given their own bracelets to those who have none, continuing the pattern of generosity. Others, young entrepreneurs, have quickly noticed the value of a band and make a dime or two off of selling rather than trading. As a “customer” of one young friend, I can proclaim that the result is satisfying for both the buyer and the seller.

*Kids unite around a common band… umm, bond. My children met a girl about their age for the first time when we were invited to her house. Immediately, the silly bandz were brought out and the trading began. There was never an awkward moment, but instead, an instant friendship.

*Kids and grown-ups connect. Adults are catching on and wearing a few themselves, grabbing the attention of children, whether it’s at the dentist’s office, a local restaurant, or Grandma’s house. In an age when kids and adults seldom find common ground and often mingle only with those their own age, this interaction between generations is encouraging.

*Kids are willing to share their faith with others. While it may be a stretch – no pun intended - the instant bond over this fad is paving the way for children to live out godly virtues and tell others what is most important in their lives. Coming to their aide are bracelets in the shapes of crosses, Bibles, angels, and other Christian icons which give the wearers a natural opportunity to explain their meanings.

I am one of the first to discount a fad as a petty fashion that is short-lived. Isn’t that their very nature, the very definition of the word? This current craze, however, has caught my eye for the good it seems to bring out in kids. This is one I will remember.

“…be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share…” 1 Tim. 6:18

Responsible Words

“The more responsible you are, the more privileges you earn.” It seems that lately I am uttering these words on a regular basis. Perhaps it is because I have a son on the brink of the teen years and our expectations for what he is capable of doing in the months and years ahead are high. We want to teach him that with independence comes responsibility and vice versa.

But it is not Brandon who has been reminded of these words the last several days. It is Zachary, our 7 year-old, who has a love for animals and recently announced he wants a fish. I’m pretty sure he decided upon this pet after we quickly overruled a horse, a wild dog, a cat (I’m allergic), and a turtle (illegal in our state). He discovered fish are relatively inexpensive, fun to watch, and can be bought in a pet store without committing a crime. This gives him hope.

As he was pleading his case, I saw this as a perfect opportunity to encourage him to be more responsible. I do not want to take care of a fish, and he claims that he will easily be able to do that himself. While I am certain he would try his best, I am not convinced he is capable.

Responsibility, however, encompasses more than taking care of belongings. Zachary’s pleadings for a fish gave me the idea of having him earn the gift with more than a clean room and a helping hand around the house. I want him to be responsible with his words.

Zachary’s struggle in life right now is with his mouth. He has an inclination to whine, complain, lose his temper, and strike out with unkind words when he is offended. We are working with him on correcting this behavior and the heart issues behind it, but I sensed an opportunity to remedy this tendency by putting a new twist on our definition of responsibility. I told Zachary that if he could show me responsibility with his words, I might be convinced that he can be responsible with a pet fish.

What do “responsible words” look like? Using words responsibly means no whining, complaining, or arguing. When someone has provoked you, intentionally or not, you do not lash out. Dropping a matter before it becomes a fight, even when you have been wronged, is also an indication of having responsibility over our mouths.

These are real challenges for Zachary. Frankly, they are real challenges for me as well. How many times do I lose my patience with the boys when they are being rowdy or not listening? What about when I complain because others aren’t doing things the way I want them done? Do I even mention the whining I do when Mike has to work late? And when someone wrongs me, do I just drop the matter, or do I hang on to it and tell others how I have been mistreated?

Hmmm… perhaps Zachary is only copying what he has seen during his young life under my care.

Getting a pet fish does not inspire me to correct my problem. However, a yearning to be a better example to my kids, to show more support and love to my husband, and most of all, to please my Lord and Savior, is my incentive to be more responsible with my words.

As for Zachary, he has just begun his new challenge. While he has a ways to go, he is incredibly motivated. Who knows? In a couple of months, I may be writing about our new pet fish!

“… he who restrains his lips is wise.” Proverbs 10:19b

The Beast

It has been dormant for a few months, but I hear it stirring. There have been other distractions in the meantime, but the beast is now being awakened. Football season has arrived, and the “beast” I am speaking of is college football rivalries.

It is part of my family heritage to pull for the South Carolina Gamecocks. I will be loyal to their team until the day I die! Mike was raised in a more neutral home. Because both of his parents graduated from a private university, they did not have a strong tie to either the University of South Carolina or their rivals, the Clemson Tigers. They pulled for both, believing it important to support all athletic teams from their state.

This worked to my advantage! It wasn’t hard swaying my love to pull for the Gamecocks when they played against Clemson. Occasionally, I could even convince him to pull against Clemson when they played another team.

It was all going well, until…

…Brandon, my oldest, decided he would pull for Clemson over South Carolina.

Where did this come from? Why would he turn?

For a then 9 year-old, and especially one like Brandon, sometimes it comes down to the practical. His favorite color has always been orange (Clemson’s color) and he thinks tigers are cool animals. Therefore, he chose to exert some independence and support the rival team.

While it may not be understandable to many, I was initially disappointed and taken aback. My own flesh and blood, a son I dearly love, had chosen the enemy? It was almost too much to digest.

It was almost too much for his brothers, as well, who were tried and true Gamecock fans like their granddaddy and their mama. The beast was unleashed; the battle began.

With much shame, I must confess that it started with me. All the old Clemson put-downs came streaming from my mouth in the guise of “good-natured teasing.” His brothers imitated their mom, but carried it to a new level that caused ugly fights and arguments.

Suddenly, God spoke clearly. Are you really tearing down relationships you have worked so hard to build all because of a football team? Do you like what you see among your boys when it comes to this rivalry? And you do realize the big part you have played in it?

Conviction! But it wasn’t too late to do something about it. God put college rivalries in a new perspective. Here is what He taught me:

Everything we do should be for God’s glory, and participating in childish jokes and sarcastic remarks does not glorify God. It fact, it contradicts His own commands.

I have prayed to have a strong, healthy relationship with my boys and for them to have the same with one another, and silly fights over a football team hinder those prayers from being answered.

There are bigger battles to wage with my children than a battle over a sports competition. I want them to know the Lord and walk in His ways. I want them to fight for His honor and glory, not the honor and glory of a football team.

We are now teaching the boys to respect one another and the rival team. No one has to root for for the rival, but the hurtful teasing and bitter words have to stop. Brandon called my dad and congratulated him when South Carolina defeated Clemson last year. It takes a strong boy to be able to do that when his team has lost, and I was proud of him.

Last winter, when Clemson was playing in a bowl game, Brandon sincerely wanted to see his Tigers prevail. I have never pulled for Clemson against any team, but I love my son and wanted to see him excited about a win. I confessed my dilemma to Mike, who simply, but wisely, stated, “Choose your son.”

I pulled for Clemson in that game and was happy for my son when they won. I cannot imagine ever being a Clemson fan, but I am a huge “Brandon” fan, and that is enough reason to set aside the rivalry – to chain the beast, or better yet, kick him out of the house - and support one another.

Be assured. This football season, like all others, you will find me enthusiastically cheering on my South Carolina Gamecocks... but every once and a while, there may be a smile on my face if Clemson wins, too!

“But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.”
2 Timothy 2:23

James

My nephew James is now a college freshman. This week, he moved away from home and into a dorm. My mind is not grasping this concept very well.

James is an athletic, intelligent, and mature young man, but when I look at him, I still see the three year-old ring bearer from our wedding – the absolutely adorable and incredibly well-behaved ring bearer who took his assignment as seriously as this young bride hoped he would.


Can this same sweet little boy really be old enough to move away from home? Watching him grow up before my eyes so quickly makes me suspect that my own boys will be following in his footsteps much sooner than I care to consider.

I also wonder how James’ mom, my sister-in-law, is handling this major transition. Is she beside herself with emotion, or has she prepared for this time of life? Is this an event a mother can ever truly be ready for? Is she clinging to her other children, trying to hold back time so that the days of an empty nest are not as soon as they appear to be? James’ move certainly makes me cling to my own boys a little tighter and make the most of the days we have with them at home.

For years, I have prayed for James every Monday. Each of my niece and nephews has a day assigned to them in which I specifically lift them up to the Lord. I have prayed for James’ safety, his relationships, and for his discipleship and growth as a believer in Jesus Christ. I am proud of the young man he has become. Nonetheless, lately I noticed myself praying for him other days of the week as well.

These most recent prayers are that he will he stay strong in his faith when others try to deceive him away from the truth of God’s Word. I ask the Lord to help him make wise choices in the midst of his newfound freedom. As he is faced with many temptations, I pray that he will stand firm on the principles he has been taught throughout his life. I feel confident James will excel both academically and spiritually. Even so, I am committed to faithfully praying for him just as I am committed to praying for my own sons.

We are proud of James and all he has accomplished so far. This new adventure is an exciting one for our favorite college student, and we are looking forward to hearing all about it. The days ahead are full of great potential, and we believe he will continue to be used him in mighty ways as he keeps God first.

We love you, James!

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Prov. 3:5-6

Preparing for Baseball

Another season of baseball has begun. For our boys, playing baseball in the fall is a first. We decided to try it this year because we have heard that it is more relaxing than in the spring, with less of an emphasis on competition and more focus on teaching the players skills and helping them improve. We consider this present season something of a boot camp to get ready for April, as well as an opportunity to have fun and enjoy the sport.

Since baseball ended last June, the boys have faithfully been practicing almost every day. However, those daily practices during one of the hottest summers on record haven’t been much more than ten to fifteen minutes of throwing and catching the ball. Will they be ready?

With practices beginning and the first games of the season only days away, I called the boys together for a special baseball lesson. Since they had just come in from playing ball in 97 degree weather, the prospect of going back out in the heat did not excite them. They were pleasantly surprised, however, when I said this lesson would be at the kitchen table. I pulled out the dry-erase board, and we began.

“What is the purpose of baseball?” I asked.

After several suggestions were made, I reminded them that the purpose of baseball is no different from the purpose of anything else we do. While having fun, improving in a sport, exercising, and making new friends are all fine reasons to play, the ultimate purpose is to glorify God. In essence, they are to be missionaries on the ball field, shining the light of Christ.

We then discussed how they, as players, can accomplish this goal. The boys gave the following suggestions:

1. Have a good attitude.
2. Tell others about Jesus.
3. Pray and share how God is answering those prayers.
4. Give God credit for successes.
5. Do what God would want; don’t compromise on biblical values.
6. Listen to and obey the coach.
7. Help others.
8. Encourage others and cheer on your team.
9. Try hard; do your best; don’t give up.
10. Don’t complain.

I consider that an admirable top ten list from my boys! But then it was time to put myself on the spot. I asked them how Daddy and I, as parents and fans, can glorify God. Here’s what we came up with together:

1. Pray for our children and their teammates.
2. Tell others about God and what He is doing this season.
3. Have a good attitude.
4. Cheer on the team and encourage players.
5. Enjoy the games.
6. Be nice to the other team.
7. Don’t say anything bad about the coach, the players, or the umpires.
8. Don’t lose our tempers.
9. Be discerning with the words we say.
10. Don’t complain.

Now that is going to be a tough list to accomplish! It is so much easier to tell the boys how they can glorify God with their words and actions than it is to apply many of those same principles to my life. I expect to struggle most with “no complaining” followed closely by “be discerning with the words we say”. Actually, those two go hand in hand.

It's not going to be easy. It looks like I will be in baseball boot camp this fall, too!

“So whether you eat or drink,” - or play baseball - “or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31