Everyone has a certain set of beliefs. I am no different. Some of my beliefs are foundational to my Christian faith. Other doctrines I hold would classify me as conservative, while some of my views would most likely categorize me as just plain weird.
Not that I’m weird, right? I tried to convince Brandon’s friend Carson of this as he argued that everyone is a bit weird. “Not me,” I claimed. I almost had him convinced! Yet he did speak truth. I no doubt possess my portion of idiosyncrasies, some of which my husband also shares.
One belief we are holding to these days as parents of preteens and a teenager is the idea that having a girlfriend or boyfriend during the middle school and high school days is pointless and even potentially damaging.
Call us eccentric, because our opinion is clearly in the minority. However, with no intentions of marrying during these years, our sons are encouraged to avoid the temptations associated with intimate relationships, including the likelihood that such relationships will result in giving a piece of his own body – even something as “small” as hands or lips – to one who is unlikely to become his mate.
We believe that dating has a purpose: finding a spouse! And few teenagers are already looking for someone to marry. Therefore, no logical reason exists for dating; it is merely a leisure activity. And the temptations, intimacy, and drama are simply not worth the indulgence at that age.
We have other “weird” beliefs, not surprising considering we have chosen the unconventional method (at least for this era) of educating our children, homeschooling.
For example, our children have never believed in Santa Claus, not because he is often given the status of a god or because we think our children would somehow confuse him with the true Savior whose birth we celebrate at Christmas, but merely because we have not felt comfortable lying to our sons about where their gifts come from on Christmas morning. Furthermore, it allows us flexibility with traveling that often occurs over the holiday.
We are also “one of those families” who choose not to support the Harry Potter industry. You will find no J. K. Rowling books in our home. I have no doubt that the novels are well-written, given their immense popularity. As a piece of literature, they may be top-notch. Yet the utilization and endorsement of sorcery and witchcraft by the “good guys” closely parallels similar practices condemned in Scripture.
I am not claiming that reading and enjoying a Harry Potter novel is wrong; many of my dearly loved friends and family members rave about the books and movies. However, the shift from reading the stories to dabbling in witchcraft - done easily enough among our younger generation with all of the toys, merchandise, and even a theme park on this “heroic” fictional character – pushes the boundary a little further that with which we are comfortable.
We undoubtedly hold more unconventional viewpoints than these mentioned, views that guide us in our desire to glorify God. A logical explanation exists for each belief, with which you may disagree. Regardless of our differences in opinions and convictions, we will love you no less and hope that the affection is mutual!
“Set up road marks, place for yourself guideposts…” Jeremiah 21:31a
Monday, August 29, 2011
Monday, August 22, 2011
Summer Reading
Reading is like chocolate: sometimes an unhealthy luxury in my life, (like when it causes me to neglect other duties), but so incredibly delectable and refreshing, particularly when of the finest quality! Unable to resist the temptation to set aside all responsibilities and continue a good novel, I typically must avoid pleasurable reading during the busyness of a school year, which is all the more reason I anticipate summer break.
Months ago, the books piled on my shelf began begging to be opened. Just days before our break officially began, I eagerly chose the first. The boys, having more leisure time with school over, and even Mike soon joined the summer reading race.
The first books I picked up belonged to the Kingdom Keepers series, by Ridley Pearson, which I completed near the beginning of the hiatus. This suspenseful children’s fiction series revolves around young teenagers solving dilemmas within Disney World. Although the storyline is similar in each book and lacks profound insight worthy of discussion, I did appreciate the closer look into one of my favorite vacation spots that Pearson gives his readers. Brandon, Nicholas, and Mike also read the series this summer and gave it top reviews.
Upon Brandon’s urging, I next read Corrie ten Boom’s The Hiding Place, which he studied for his literature class last year. Her retelling of life in Holland during World War II fascinated me and became one of my favorite stories this summer. Under horrible circumstances, ten Boom maintained an inspiring strength and faith in God as she persevered during the worst of times.
Knowing Brandon will be studying A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court and The Prince and the Pauper during this school year, I next chose to read these Mark Twain novels. Delightful and entertaining, neither novel disappointed me; however, the tender story of the young pauper “prince” stole my heart and quickly became an all-time favorite.
Under pressure from a good friend, I finally set aside my fears and tackled the Hunger Games trilogy. Within just a few pages, I was hooked, even staying up past midnight at times to continue reading! Although not a feel-good fairy tale, this intense series written by Suzanne Collins intrigues and captivates its readers. Her thought-provoking trilogy concluded with a more than satisfactory ending, leaving me quite content as I closed the last book.
At my urging, Mike committed to the series and soon was also enthralled by the troubling, yet fascinating storyline. After some discussion, we agreed Brandon was mature enough to read the books, as well. He completed the “awesome” trilogy in about a week.
I returned to children’s fiction, perhaps my favorite genre, with John Grisham’s second Theodore Boone book, The Abduction. Nicholas and Brandon also read this book, but I think I liked it the most! Grisham represents thirteen year-old boys in a positive light with his creation of Boone’s character who is not only mature and responsible, but also hard-working and respectful.
With time running out and the start of the school year just days away, I began The Hobbit, by J. R. R. Tolkien and finished it just a few days ago. I could easily write an entire post on Bilbo Baggins, one of the most loveable and inspiring literary characters in all the books I have read. At the conclusion, I yearned to read more of this adorable hobbit. Thankfully, Tolkein continued writing; The Lord of the Rings trilogy is now on my list of books to read, but sadly, those must wait until next summer… unless I succumb to their pleas from my bookshelf.
My boys also enjoyed a summer of reading. Zachary expanded from the Magic Tree House books to the Magic School Bus books! After completing the Kingdom Keepers series, Nicholas jumped right into the Sugar Creek Gang books and has completed about one third of that series. Brandon read Alex and Brett Harris’ Do Hard Things, continued through the Hardy Boys books that Mike read when he was a boy, and is currently studying The Hobbit as part of his literature class.
The return of a busy school year means less pleasurable reading; however, one Book we refuse to neglect any time of the year is the Bible. God’s Word will always remain the most important reading on our agenda and will be a constant source of learning, guidance, and discussion throughout the year.
“How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Psalm 119:103
Months ago, the books piled on my shelf began begging to be opened. Just days before our break officially began, I eagerly chose the first. The boys, having more leisure time with school over, and even Mike soon joined the summer reading race.
The first books I picked up belonged to the Kingdom Keepers series, by Ridley Pearson, which I completed near the beginning of the hiatus. This suspenseful children’s fiction series revolves around young teenagers solving dilemmas within Disney World. Although the storyline is similar in each book and lacks profound insight worthy of discussion, I did appreciate the closer look into one of my favorite vacation spots that Pearson gives his readers. Brandon, Nicholas, and Mike also read the series this summer and gave it top reviews.
Upon Brandon’s urging, I next read Corrie ten Boom’s The Hiding Place, which he studied for his literature class last year. Her retelling of life in Holland during World War II fascinated me and became one of my favorite stories this summer. Under horrible circumstances, ten Boom maintained an inspiring strength and faith in God as she persevered during the worst of times.
Knowing Brandon will be studying A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court and The Prince and the Pauper during this school year, I next chose to read these Mark Twain novels. Delightful and entertaining, neither novel disappointed me; however, the tender story of the young pauper “prince” stole my heart and quickly became an all-time favorite.
Under pressure from a good friend, I finally set aside my fears and tackled the Hunger Games trilogy. Within just a few pages, I was hooked, even staying up past midnight at times to continue reading! Although not a feel-good fairy tale, this intense series written by Suzanne Collins intrigues and captivates its readers. Her thought-provoking trilogy concluded with a more than satisfactory ending, leaving me quite content as I closed the last book.
At my urging, Mike committed to the series and soon was also enthralled by the troubling, yet fascinating storyline. After some discussion, we agreed Brandon was mature enough to read the books, as well. He completed the “awesome” trilogy in about a week.
I returned to children’s fiction, perhaps my favorite genre, with John Grisham’s second Theodore Boone book, The Abduction. Nicholas and Brandon also read this book, but I think I liked it the most! Grisham represents thirteen year-old boys in a positive light with his creation of Boone’s character who is not only mature and responsible, but also hard-working and respectful.
With time running out and the start of the school year just days away, I began The Hobbit, by J. R. R. Tolkien and finished it just a few days ago. I could easily write an entire post on Bilbo Baggins, one of the most loveable and inspiring literary characters in all the books I have read. At the conclusion, I yearned to read more of this adorable hobbit. Thankfully, Tolkein continued writing; The Lord of the Rings trilogy is now on my list of books to read, but sadly, those must wait until next summer… unless I succumb to their pleas from my bookshelf.
My boys also enjoyed a summer of reading. Zachary expanded from the Magic Tree House books to the Magic School Bus books! After completing the Kingdom Keepers series, Nicholas jumped right into the Sugar Creek Gang books and has completed about one third of that series. Brandon read Alex and Brett Harris’ Do Hard Things, continued through the Hardy Boys books that Mike read when he was a boy, and is currently studying The Hobbit as part of his literature class.
The return of a busy school year means less pleasurable reading; however, one Book we refuse to neglect any time of the year is the Bible. God’s Word will always remain the most important reading on our agenda and will be a constant source of learning, guidance, and discussion throughout the year.
“How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Psalm 119:103
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Summer Break Highlights
Over the next few weeks, summer will fade away, surrendering its dominance to the beautiful, cooler season of autumn. In our home, however, summer has unofficially passed as we settle into earlier bedtimes, rising before 7am, and school lessons well into the afternoon.
Exhausting, yet productive and even pleasant, our first week of school is now behind us. Yet memories of our summer respite remain fresh in our minds.
Perhaps the most precious times were the individual dates I took with each of my little men. This one-on-one time, which always included some yummy sweet treat, allowed me to focus on each of my guys without the distraction of telephones, internet, cleaning, cooking, or sibling squabbles. Even though they are getting older, they still love dates with their mom, which delights me immensely!
Of course, my husband was not neglected in the dating department. While some of our favorite times together included watching movies at home with peanut butter milkshakes which Mike so excellently prepares, we also enjoyed a breakfast date at a local donut shop and an evening out for dinner and shopping.
Zachary had his own date of sorts – an afternoon with his beloved Sunday school teacher from his Kindergarten days. Mrs. Laura, who is in her 80s, welcomed his presence for an afternoon spent exploring her yard and neighborhood, which on that day included four donkeys, nine dogs, six chickens, two butterflies, and one happy little boy!
Nicholas enjoyed a week-long “date” with his grandparents this summer. Admittedly, I dreaded this week more than a trip to the dentist. Giving up a son for seven days is not easy for me. While I trust my parents completely, all sorts of fears popped into my mind.
Yet both Nicholas and my parents eagerly anticipated this week, and despite my selfish desire to lock my middle son in our house, I was grateful for the opportunity they would have to spend time together.
Furthermore, I know that Nicholas is not just my son. He is their grandson, and more importantly, he is God’s child. Mike and I are blessed with the assignment of loving and raising our children to the best of our abilities. Yet God always watches over and takes cares of them, even in our absence.
With that knowledge, I let Nicholas go with only a few tears, trusting him not only to my parents, but even more to the Lord. Nicholas had a fantastic time and continues to report details to us of his memorable, fun-filled trip.
The boys excitedly participated in a week of Runner’s Camp during the break. Brandon and Zachary claimed long distance running as their preference, while Nicholas thrived in sprinting races.
Other summer break activities included multiple trips to multiple pools, vegetables harvested from our garden, numerous walks and bike rides around the neighborhood, a local baseball game, a drive-in movie, time with friends, and lots of reading, which will be discussed soon in a separate blog.
Aside from a day trip to meet my parents for shopping, birthday celebrating (Brandon, my dad, and me), and handing off Nicholas, we did not travel during our school break. However, we have literally been counting down the days until our upcoming vacation to Disney World which will not only officially wrap up the summer season, but also celebrate a successful beginning to our new school year.
“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1
Exhausting, yet productive and even pleasant, our first week of school is now behind us. Yet memories of our summer respite remain fresh in our minds.
Perhaps the most precious times were the individual dates I took with each of my little men. This one-on-one time, which always included some yummy sweet treat, allowed me to focus on each of my guys without the distraction of telephones, internet, cleaning, cooking, or sibling squabbles. Even though they are getting older, they still love dates with their mom, which delights me immensely!
Of course, my husband was not neglected in the dating department. While some of our favorite times together included watching movies at home with peanut butter milkshakes which Mike so excellently prepares, we also enjoyed a breakfast date at a local donut shop and an evening out for dinner and shopping.
Zachary had his own date of sorts – an afternoon with his beloved Sunday school teacher from his Kindergarten days. Mrs. Laura, who is in her 80s, welcomed his presence for an afternoon spent exploring her yard and neighborhood, which on that day included four donkeys, nine dogs, six chickens, two butterflies, and one happy little boy!
Nicholas enjoyed a week-long “date” with his grandparents this summer. Admittedly, I dreaded this week more than a trip to the dentist. Giving up a son for seven days is not easy for me. While I trust my parents completely, all sorts of fears popped into my mind.
Yet both Nicholas and my parents eagerly anticipated this week, and despite my selfish desire to lock my middle son in our house, I was grateful for the opportunity they would have to spend time together.
Furthermore, I know that Nicholas is not just my son. He is their grandson, and more importantly, he is God’s child. Mike and I are blessed with the assignment of loving and raising our children to the best of our abilities. Yet God always watches over and takes cares of them, even in our absence.
With that knowledge, I let Nicholas go with only a few tears, trusting him not only to my parents, but even more to the Lord. Nicholas had a fantastic time and continues to report details to us of his memorable, fun-filled trip.
The boys excitedly participated in a week of Runner’s Camp during the break. Brandon and Zachary claimed long distance running as their preference, while Nicholas thrived in sprinting races.
Other summer break activities included multiple trips to multiple pools, vegetables harvested from our garden, numerous walks and bike rides around the neighborhood, a local baseball game, a drive-in movie, time with friends, and lots of reading, which will be discussed soon in a separate blog.
Aside from a day trip to meet my parents for shopping, birthday celebrating (Brandon, my dad, and me), and handing off Nicholas, we did not travel during our school break. However, we have literally been counting down the days until our upcoming vacation to Disney World which will not only officially wrap up the summer season, but also celebrate a successful beginning to our new school year.
“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1
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