Friday, December 31, 2010

180

The kids and I had a lovely Christmas with lots of family. I knew by Tuesday afternoon, however, that a sad and angry cry of grief and loss was brewing inside. My first opportunity to let it out privately was last night…and out it came…I went to bed hoping things would seem better in the morning, but they didn't. I sat down for my quiet time of prayer and study with a very heavy heart. Although it didn't happen immediately, there was a moment when I realized God had worked a 180⁰ turn in my heart. I continue to be amazed when this occurs--this amazing change of heart/attitude...even though it actually happens quite frequently. Often I don't even want to be pulled from my pity party…but He is faithful when I still myself and receive the love He offers. I started my quiet time ranting to Him about why He seems to make everything so hard, and I ended it knowing in my heart that He is trustworthy and faithful, and that with His help, I am able to be content in my spirit and do whatever needs to be done.


Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Hooray

Today was a good day. My children only have one more (half) day of school, and they are soooo excited about the break! We have lots of family coming for Christmas, and I am looking forward to it. We have not really decorated...but our tree is up and our city of Bethlehem out. The new dog has chewed up (I mean like a termite!) my rocking chairs on the front porch, so I decided lights on the house might not be a good idea since you have to plug them into the outlet that is right in the midst of their dog playground.

Hope your Advent is a peaceful one...full of joy as you prepare and wait to celebrate the coming of our Saviour.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

True Gifts

My daughter and I had a great day today. A family friend joyfully and patiently instructed my daughter and two of her friends (and two moms ;-) in the art of making Baklava. The entire process took about 6.5 hours, and we also made Stromboli for lunch and cookies in between...actually the girls helped her with the Stromboli and the other mom helped with the cookies and I enjoyed a cup of coffee and a beautiful view and washed a few dishes. I even got to do trig problems as a bonus (My friend's daughter has a test Monday ;-)...my fellow math teachers will understand when I say that there is nothing better than working a few trig problems on a cold, rainy day!
My friend has a busy household with 4 children (her oldest is a freshman in College and her youngest is in 8th grade) and a full-time, very consuming job...but she made time for us today because my daughter asked her too. It never dawned on my daughter that this friend would not share her secrets of Baklava making or would pass it off with "I'll be glad to get you the recipe." We had a wonderful afternoon of laughter, story telling, you-tube viewing,...and, oh yeah, baking. These are the true gifts of the Christmas season, I think.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Good To Know

Last night, all by myself, I picked out, unloaded and carried in my Christmas tree --I also put it up in the stand. That is a major accomplishment for me, and I quite surprised myself. One more thing on my list of stuff I've never done before. I was proud but sad also...thinking about years past. I am just one of the many single mommas out there learning to do things for myself. I am starting to know that I can do this...only because I have to. I don't want to, but it is good to know that I can.