Simply Be...

2011-12-25T21:32:00.000-08:00

"From heaven you came helpless babe

Entered our world, your glory veiled

Not to be served, but to serve

And give your life, that we might live..."

Merry Christmas!

May your hearts and minds be filled this coming year

with the reminder of the great sacrifice given for us.

{click here for more images of today}

A quiet hum of excitement..

2011-12-14T21:28:00.000-08:00

We are waiting expectantly for Friday afternoon.

But before that day can come there are two dresses to complete...

Two days, two dresses {almost} complete.

The sewing room is still not to a completely organized state.

But there was winter light streaming through the dusty windows

and visions of little girls dancing in horizontal pleated skirts....

{More pictures after Friday Afternoon}

Days are meant for living...

2011-11-23T10:10:00.000-08:00

...and breathing in the goodness of God which surrounds us.

Drinking in the fullness of the life He has given us.

Days are meant for capturing the normal to remember...

Days are meant for resting quietly in the small circle of light from a bed lamp...

...and finding truth spread out among the pages of scripture and studies.

Days are meant for making a joyful noise- no ability necessary, just simple praise.

Music to the ears of our Maker.

Days are meant for walks in joyful company.

Days are meant for marveling in the creations His hands have formed.

Days are meant for staring into a peaceful face full of contentment,

and seeing how we too can be completely content.

Days are meant for looking down, just to see that we are completely surrounded

by Him.

Days are meant for finding beauty and gifts in the mundane,

finding truth of faithfulness.

"This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

2011-08-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

{To see more pictures Click Here}

Lydia Marie

2011-08-08T19:56:00.000-07:00

Big Papa enjoying his sweet girl

This last Saturday we welcomed yet another niece (that makes four)

As we sat around a campfire sharing sweet fellowship with our church family

the news came over that mama was laboring.

The next morning we heard she was here. On the heels of her Great Grandpa

she entered into our lives as a sweet reminder from our Creator.

Another Papa, enjoying his sweet girl

...We are enjoying this new little one immensely....

His eyes twinkled...

2011-07-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

... and he would shout "oh, boy!" as we came to give him a welcoming hug. His exclamations of "Oh, boy!" would continue until he would release us and we would look into those ice blue eyes, and see the life flashing behind them.

I remember...

...He was deployed to Italy shortly before D-Day. He was pulled from the lines and put in charge of entertaining the troops. He assisted the chaplains during the day, and at night he took the minds of the soldiers far from their uncertainty and fear.

...He walked in the parade as General Patton was laid to rest.

... He spoke of "meeting" our Grandma, "I followed a pair of trim ankles into the theater..." we would say, "Oh, Grandpa..." and then he would say, "Then I asked her out." And he would jut his chin out in a defiant way, as if to say, "I knew she would say yes." Grandma would shake her head and say, "Oh, Win."

...He sang, and played - music was his middle name. The barbershop concerts were a joy to attend.

...He tuned our piano, and our ears, to hear his stories.

...He played that trumpet, straightening up like the young man he was on the inside. His eyes held a far off look, he was remembering.

...If you were careful, you could capture his exact look for that day, maybe his loving look at grandma, or his quiet smile as he listened. But if you were lucky he might catch you and you could capture a man of thirty, those pictures will be cherished.

...He left behind a legacy, his wife, his five children, his twenty grandchildren, and his nineteen great-grandchildren, but he took part of our hearts with him...

He passed away Friday morning the 8th of July, after saying good morning to his wife... We still weep, we still morn, we still hear his laugh and see his face, but we have said goodbye. We as a family are journeying through the cycle of life over this week and next, we celebrated a new life last evening, we will celebrate a union of two people on Friday and we will celebrate the long life of a wonderful man next week. The Lord is good, He reminds us of life for a reason. We may weep and mourn, but He is still sovereign... and through it all, we feel His peace.

"But ask the animals what they think—let them teach you;

let the birds tell you what's going on.

Put your ear to the earth—learn the basics.

Listen—the fish in the ocean will tell you their stories.

Isn't it clear that they all know and agree that God is sovereign,

that he holds all things in his hand— Every living soul, yes, every breathing creature?

Isn't this all just common sense, as common as the sense of taste?

Do you think the elderly have a corner on wisdom,

that you have to grow old before you understand life?"

Job 12:7

Simply Be...

2011-04-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

*Lest you believe you have entered the wrong address, I assure you this is still the same place with the same goal ~ To Glorify God.*

"He says, "Be Still and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth."

Psalm 46:10

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,

for tomorrow will worry about its own things.

Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

Matthew 6:34

Simply Be... I was fearful, I worried, life was moving forward and I had no control over its path. I prayed constantly begging for a different outcome then the one that was inevitable. I prayed that I would not be separated from those I was close to, but through His perfect plan, I was. Instead of walking away from Him and putting Him on hold again, I filled myself with His words and prayed my own. I was immersed in His constancy. He called me to listen and I did. As I had my morning quiet time with Him, I found a theme. Simply Be... His Words and those of Leslie echoed those thoughts in my mind. I contemplated the past month. When I was fearful He said, "Simply be confident in Me." I felt sorrowful, He said, "Simply be joyful." I was disquieted, He said, "Simply Be at peace."

"Today I am..." Those words stopped me. Today I am. "Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." Today I am... to simply be... My constant one is sufficient to fill all my needs. What must I do? Simply Be... Be that which He created me to be. Be that which I think I cannot. Be completely dependent on Him to fill every need.

" As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Luke 10:38-42

2011-04-03T17:53:00.000-07:00

Listening...

2011-03-30T21:45:00.000-07:00

Sometimes words are too much, but listening seems to fill one with more. So even though it has been quiet here, I have been listening. And the words He has been speaking are magnificently full.

"...Oh Lord you have searched me...

and known me...

...my downsittings, my uprisings...

You understand my thoughts

from afar and You know all my ways..."

Psalm 139:1-3

He has been proving Himself faithful through the pain that has felt like it might consume me, He has shown that He is my Constant One. I need no other.

"Like a bird that wanders from its nest

is a man who wanders from his place..."

Proverbs 27:8

He has been there, with me, during the joyful times and the sorrowful ones. I know that through it all He aims to refine me, so I will continue to listen.

"...But, as for me and my house

we will serve the LORD..."

Joshua 24:15

I will, Lord willing be writing more often, but please be patient with me...

Times for Listening do not have a limit.

Nor is it obvious when or where He might call,

I wish only to be prepared

to stop...

...to Listen.

"Arise, Shine..."

2010-12-25T21:26:00.000-08:00

"...for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you."

Isaiah 60:1

The Light has come, may he fill your coming year with joy!

Remember oh thou man...

2010-12-01T14:36:00.000-08:00

It's snowing, making it look like we are in the clouds instead of on the ground.

I froze my fingers trying to hang lights...

Trying, yes...

We are stocked up on all the best ingredients for hot chocolate.

The creche stands as a reminder, in a prominent spot....

I've had this song going through my head...

I have classes to prepare for, and pictures to edit, but that can't keep me from remembering...

Life is full, and sweet...

...drink it in...

Before... forever...

2010-11-16T22:29:00.000-08:00

Before you say "I do..." or not... Before you raise your own family... or don't.

I know that since I was little I wanted so badly to have my own family, even up to the beginning of this year... but what about all the years of being single? It can be from one to fifty before you say "I do..." what about all those days, weeks, months even years in between?

"But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife—and his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord's affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world—how she can please her husband...

Paul spoke clearly, "not to restrict" anyone but to encourage them, those fifty years can be full... One can wonder how, what can one do?

Women long to be loved to be a beloved, what if you were to have one of the greatest lovers known to man? He calls you His Beloved daily, He knows you by name. He knows the number of hairs on your head. He knows your fears and hopes... because he gave them to you. We long for the human love so we can love by serving and being a helpmeet... we can serve Him in such a way.

He calls you His Beloved and so you are! What need have we of a greater love! God gave us marriage and it is a beautiful gift... but He also gives another gift, and it is not always viewed the same way, God gave us singleness... Just like marriage it can have its good and bad times, but we tend to view it another way... As a curse, how can we? God has given us a gift and we view it as His accident or His mistake. No, not an accident, not a mistake... A Gift...

A woman missionary spoke of her singleness at a conference that Elisabeth Elliot attended. In her words God was truly glorified. She prayed fervently for a husband, she longed to be a helpmeet, she yearned to serve not only the people she was ministering to but also to a husband. She completed this discussion by saying in her beautiful Irish brogue, "Now I don't believe God forgot, he (speaking of the husband she had asked for) just never showed up!"
She did not believe God had ignored her or cursed her with singleness, she simply believed she was meant to be single. God had amazing things for her to accomplish, and she was meant to do them as a single woman.

So what if you never marry? Does this mean that you have not accomplished what God has for every woman? Maybe, but only if you do not use your single years for His Glory. God may give you the gift of singleness for your entire life, if so use it! He does not cause anything without it being meant to Glorify Him.

Women are meant to serve and be helpmeets, but we don't always get to do it for a family of our own. This does not mean that we walk through life waiting on that "prince charming" or "knight in shining armour" to walk in, nor does it mean that we don't even think about marriage, and just walk away from it without seeking God's decision for our lives. No, we can prepare for singleness as well as marriage without disobeying God's command for us! We were made to serve, to seek out those who need a helpmeet. We can prepare to be a helpmeet for any who come along.

You have someone who calls you a beloved. He wants you to rely on Him for all things... no, not some things... All Things! He calls you His Beloved daily, He walks with you throughout the hard times and the good ones. He will "...not abandon you, nor forsake you..." If you cannot let Him call you His Beloved, and if you cannot rely on Him for your all how are you going to give your love, and trust to a finite man? A man who will disappoint, a man who will forget, a man who will be weak at times, a man who will love you but cannot promise to always be prepared to help you... Your heart will not be ready for that special man when he comes along if you have not already given yourself to The Creator of All Things...

God has given us opportunities to serve, through family, friends, church, and this entire world! He has offered you His arms as protection through the storms and an entire world to fulfill your desire to serve! What need have you of more if He does not have it planned that way?

So strive this day, not only to serve your family as a testing ground for your future (weather it be for your own family or for others). Reach, there are many around you who need a helpmeet to some extent. Some need a shoulder to lean on or a back to carry, but how can you carry if you are weighed down with anger or sadness at being single? I carry the burdens of an adopted sister as well as that of my blood sister. Both are so dear to me, and both need me to be there when they are struggling, because right now I am single and they are my family...

"...then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve..."
Joshua 24:15

Le Mystère

2010-10-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am at it again...

Can anyone guess what this could be?

Here are a few hints-

~A readers digest condensed novel

~Hot glue

~And a sharp knife...

Any ideas?

Willows whiten, aspens quiver....

2010-10-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

...Little breezes dusk and shiver...

Through the wave that runs for ever by the island,

in the river flowing down to Camelot.

Four grey walls, and four grey towers,

Overlook a space of flowers,

And the silent isle imbowers

The Lady of Shalott.

This Sunday we pulled out fabric and enjoyed a time as sisters.

We created flowers for our hair, some that only resemble the lilies of the field to a small extent.

But these won't fade or wither, and neither will the relationship shared between us sisters...

...Click on over to Pardon the Creativity for some more pictures and directions...

When God's creation speaks...

2010-09-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

...no words are ever needed...

Because no words can describe the beauty or the glory of His creation...

"Jo began to dance a jig..."

2010-09-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

To view more amazing photos visit my friend here...

"...Amy nearly fell out of the window in her surprise,

and Meg exclaimed, with uplifted hands,

"Why I do believe the world is coming to an end!"

~Louisa May Alcott's Little Women

Photo by Caleb Patrick

This Saturday we spent the day demonstrating the simplicity and beauty of the Civil War era dances. We were joined by a bagpiper who played us a jig, I am sure it was quite the sight.

Photo taken by my mom

Now you see why my sewing machine, had such a busy week...

Two blouses and two skirts, but they were very much worth it.

For the First Day of Fall I...

2010-09-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

...Opened the blinds far too much, just to let in some of that Autumn sunshine...

(And saw how much my windows needed a good washing...)

...Made a pot of tea, and used the autumn tea cup...

...Baked some Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread, to fill the house with that special Autumn smell...

...Turned up an Autumn list...

...And now to sew the rest of this beautiful day away!!

Come back Monday to see why my sewing machine has gotten such a work out...

Camera clicks...

2010-08-31T10:59:00.000-07:00

...Sewing machine whirs... Words are captured...

...and I leave you with my image and their words...

On Hold....

2010-08-21T21:41:00.000-07:00

When God says…

"…. I miss you…" I say "I know…" and I walk away. When I need Him He's there… but somehow He doesn't seem important... how conceited I am.

I wake up exhausted and cry out, "I can't make it through today alone…" He says, "I know I'll be right by your side…" I get up and forget… No longer do I need Him…. Or so I think…

"Do you even miss Me?" He asks, even though He already knows. "Of course not," I say, "…because I know your there… Why would I miss You?" But He knows… He knows that I don't truly see...

When my temper gets the better of me… He knows. When I cry because I don't understand why…. He knows. When I lose the passion I had that morning and I think He has abandoned me… He knows, because He is still beside me…

"I miss you…" He says it louder, through another persons words this time… I try a little giving in and replying, "I'll try…" one early morning with just Him… It is a peaceful day… until I stay up too late and when five-thirty arrives I hit the snooze button saying, "We'll talk later…" Once again I put Him on hold…

This goes on for many day's the snooze button is used too often, it should be worn out by now… I feel tired even though I slept nine hours… I can't handle the day…. Even though I have so much energy… It's just too much… I try again…

"Your back…" He says… "I know" I say… It works for a little longer, I sing during odd moments… I pray… then I reach for the snooze button again… once again God is put on hold…

"I miss you!" This time He is sending it to me through a cryptic message… My attitude… and I realize He is saying "You miss ME…" I reach for the snooze button, out of habit my head goes back under the covers and God gives me a nudge… I hold the pillow over my face and God presses on my heart… I here the voice of my sister and rise from my bed… leaving Him… "Your still on hold…" I say…

My To Do list get's longer and longer… I check my email and plan photo shoots… I am worried I'll miss out on an opportunity and throw myself into setting something up rather then missing out… The hold button flashes… "Just a few more days…." I say and hit the hold button again…

I talk with friends and my parents telling them my troubles… Why I am upset, I chock it up to life… They offer to pray for me and I am grateful… but I don't try…

The hold button blinks at me… the voice is muted, not because it has stopped but because I have pushed it away… It still speaks I just don't hear…

The hold button flashes now… I open His story... and I choke out the words " I missed YOU…" He replies, "I know… and I missed you…"

Mmmmm..

2010-08-12T18:04:00.000-07:00

Italian meat loaf with fresh basil and garlic....

Smashed potatoes with butter and rosemary...

And to finish it all off Snicker Buns...

And awesome siblings who clean up for you...

Bon Appetit!

Wedding- K&E

2010-08-06T12:21:00.000-07:00

Click to enter site

When I go to work....

2010-08-04T09:01:00.000-07:00

I like to dress like a librarian... the glasses and all...

Since I work at a bookstore it turns out quite nicely...

Frame It Series....

2010-07-23T14:22:00.000-07:00

Click to see the fairy...

Click to see awesomness...

Click to see Little G....

Hmmm....

2010-07-22T17:31:00.000-07:00

I feel a coloring book coming on... Click here to see why...

Location: Taylorsville, Utah

2010-07-17T12:07:00.000-07:00

I did have great plans to update this blog daily and give you a taste of what we have been doing but.... obviously that wasn't to be. So here I am catching you up!

Tuesday was the beginning of our vacation... We started out at eight in the morning.

The music was turned up, and the windows rolled down.

We stopped for a picnic lunch, and enjoyed watching the dog jump at every sound....

We also found out that this pint of ice cream should serve four people... not the three of us.... But really that small pint for four people!?!?

We were met by smiling faces...

(the older two were too fast and too wet to get a picture of.)

Their faces are covered in delicious home-made popsicles, yum!

And to finish off Day 1... I bet you have never met a cyclops pirate!

Day 2
And this one says it all "Oh, my what a day!" Swimming, playing, imagining, unpacking, Flying Pie, Scrap-booking (pictures coming soon!)... Not much for pictures (we were either too wet or had our hands full... ah well!)

Bon Appetite!

2010-07-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

Or rather I enjoyed my meal! This morning we celebrated my mother's birthday with a delicious breakfast... eggs benedict with hollandaise sauce (Found at this delicious and beautiful blog), asparagus sautéed with oil and salt, Amish coffee cake and cantaloupe with grapes... Now mind you I was the dishwasher and photographer for this event... but you can go here to see more pictures and read more details on the actual cooking part... Feast you eyes!

On a side note my camera has kicked the bucket so until I get a new one I will be on a point and shoot, thus quality will be way down. That's life though. I shall have to muddle through with no ISO or Aperture Priority.... I know I know, who needs those anyway?

I guess this will be one of my harder tests as a photographer!

Introducing....

2010-07-08T22:37:00.000-07:00

The most amazing and fabulous artist, cook, and sister extraordinaire...

Abbie!!!!!

*Drumroll*

The (imagine me saying it like Thee....) Blog of the year...

Pardon The Creativity!

http://pardonthecreativity.blogspot.com

My sister has beat around the bush for so long... I finally gave up

on waiting for her to get around to it(making a blog that is) and published one
(for her) myself...

I highly recommend adding her to your list of favorite reads...

Enjoy her first posts.... and check back soon.

On a side not- The road trip of the summer starts on Tuesday...

Pop back in here for pictures of it, and check Abbie's blog...

Imagination Abounds!!!

Please, pardon the creativity...

Oh, yes and did I mention... you should really check this blog...

Don't you wish...

2010-06-21T21:41:00.000-07:00

You could look as good as these two while you were sick???

Gotta love little boys!

Twelfth Night...

2010-06-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

or "What You Will"...

Tonight will be the second a final time we perform Twelfth Night...

(If you have never heard of this play I recommend you look into it)

"I shall be with you Anon!"

Dan & Amanda

2010-06-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

(Click image to enter site)

K&E

2010-06-14T07:47:00.000-07:00

I am getting quite behind! Yesterday was the wedding of some very

dear friends. Although I didn't catch the ceremony itself I did get many

before pictures... So once again I will leave you hanging with my infamous words...

Check in for more pictures later!

Finished!!!

2010-06-12T22:42:00.000-07:00

After lots of sweat, and heavy-breathing we are home...

The runners did awesome and the weather cooperated gloriously...

No getting rained on this year!

I am off to sleep in my warm bed, but I thought I'd share one capture from the weekend. Enjoy!

This weekend...

2010-06-11T12:58:00.000-07:00

I will be following the route of this amazing photographer as a group from my church goes to run the Sawtooth Relay. Hopefully I can capture some breathtaking views to show you all...

(Photo Courtesy of Julianne Scott Photography)

Oh, yes... Be sure and explore the beautiful world of Julianne Scott photography.... It truly is a magnificent trip!

Check back for photos next week!

This Weekend I...

2010-05-23T21:10:00.000-07:00

... welcomed a beautiful Niece...

Lillian Hope!!!

And...

...Graduated!!!

Maybe life will slow down now...

...maybe...

And.....

2010-05-15T20:32:00.000-07:00

They are married...

more pictures are coming...

Amanda & Daniel...

2010-03-16T15:44:00.000-07:00

Click to see more...

"The Highest Honor..."

2010-02-13T11:19:00.000-08:00

They all sat at the kitchen table, watching me as I stirred. They were waiting for me to complete their lunch, three pairs of eyes stared, and three pairs of ears listened. The food should have been done, but they were still waiting. The sauce would not thicken. I placed their veggies in front of them and, even though two of them didn't understand what I meant, I told them why their lunch was not all ready.

The two boys hear, "The sauce..." and they were out. The food wasn't ready but they had something in front of them. But another pair of eyes were still watching, these eyes were deep blue and behind them was the mind of a girl. She understood that the "...sauce would not thicken..." and that it would take it awhile before it was ready. She continued to watch, even in her scant wisdom of four years she knew that this would take awhile but that it would come after much patience.

Her eyes continued to watch, her ears continued to hear. She offered her opinion, and continued to wait.

Finally, after all that waiting, the sauce had thickened, with a little help. I brought it to the table triumphant. The boys were happy, the food was here and all of Aunt Beth's worry seemed for naught. They began to eat and cry out with exclamations of joy, as only little boys can.

But Evelyn did not say a word. She waited patiently as I cooled the boys food. Then I handed her a bowl. She took a bite, looked into the air and thought. Her forehead creased as she contemplated, then she smiled. Her face lit up and she looked over towards me. She said,

"Oh, Aunt Beth! You did it! You made the sauce thick!"

I smiled at her and said thank you but, she was not finished.

"You should receive the highest honor..." she continued,

"...You get to cook at home!"

Indeed, Evelyn, in your eyes it is the highest honor. Why your mommy cooks for you everyday. She takes joy in making your meals and nourishing you through her hands and her words. But she does so much more then that, why she teaches, and corrects, loves and comforts. Why shouldn't it be the highest honor? Who cares that your kitchen isn't known as a five star restaurant , or that your mommy isn't held in such amazingly high esteem anywhere else. She should be, and you know it!

Every woman who gives her life to raising the next generation by nourishing them daily through her hands and her words. By her actions and her love. She should be honored above all other woman. Without these women where would the next generation be? If my mother had not trained me by her side, and nourished me daily through her words and actions I would have strayed like a lost lamb, and doubtfully found my way back, without the grace of God.

"...the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior,

not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things—

⁴that they admonish the young women to love their husbands,

to love their children, ⁵ to be discreet, chaste, homemakers,

good, obedient to their own husbands,

that the word of God may not be blasphemed."

Titus 2:3-5

Daniel & Amanda

2010-01-16T15:56:00.000-08:00

Meet Daniel and Amanda...

Last night, my brother Daniel, proposed to his girlfriend Amanda and surprised her with an engagement party. Amanda's birthday was on January 8th but Daniel really wanted to surprise her, while making their engagement date meaningful. He thought she might be hoping for a ring on her birthday so he planned to propose a week later, January 15th, to throw her off. Daniel planned a "birthday party" for Amanda, realizing he couldn't hide such a large event from her.

He invited family and friends to Bardenay (a Basque restaurant), where we excitedly waited for their arrival.

Daniel kept the day casual for Amanda. He took her to breakfast, then dropped her off at work so she wouldn't have a car, and he could pick her up after work for the party.

After work, he took her back to her house under the pretense that he had to "pick something up." Once inside he surprised her with a Hope Chest and a bottle of wine that read: January 15th, 2010, Will you let me love you forever? Daniel and Amanda Kircher. She was surprised by the bottle and while distracted he got down on one knee and asked her to be his bride.

They arrived at the restaurant glowing and celebrated long into the night!

Amanda is an amazing woman of God and fits into our family perfectly. We can't get enough of her smile and laugh. Daniel is a blessed man and his thoughtfulness putting together the proposal shows his dedication to being a caring husband.

Congratulations Dan and Amanda!

Felix dies Nativitatis- Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T13:54:00.000-08:00

The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light:

they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death,

upon them hath the light shined.

Isaiah 9:2

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T21:28:00.000-08:00

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire."

Hebrews 12: 28-29

Green Gables Dollhouse Remodel

2009-10-02T19:13:00.000-07:00

Mr. Matthew and Miss Marilla Cuthbert will be moving into the empty farmhouse of the late Mr. Forbes. Many fixes need to be made, the wallpaper needs to be pulled out and some of the flooring replaced.

The kitchen is ready for some "modernization"

so was stripped bare to make way for more suitable appliances.

The only ones that are disappointed about the newcomers

are the mice, soon to be sent from their home.

More updates to come!

Isaiah 55:8

2009-07-30T19:33:00.001-07:00

The words filled my mind as mom spoke them at the table.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts…"

No indeed Lord, nor could I ever wish them to become so, for my sinful mind could not contain them…

"…My thoughts…"

Your thoughts are pure, filled with the richest wisdom. They hold the answers to the mysteries that all mankind has tried to decipher. Your thoughts overflow with love. Love for your Son. Love for your creation. Love for the greatest. Love for the least. Love for me…

"…My thoughts…"

Your thoughts, Your Thoughts, Your plans, Your knowledge…

"…My thoughts…"

Your Thoughts are on the weak, the lost, the hopeless. Your Thoughts are on the poor the outcasts, the sinner, the repentant. Your Thoughts...

"...My Thoughts..."

Are rich, they do not hold the simple thoughts of a simple man, no. They hold thoughts of... me...

"... are not your thoughts..."

my thoughts...

"... your thoughts..."

Save me from my thoughts, take the stained and human thoughts from my mind. Take away the hate, scorn, corruptness, hopelessness...

"...neither are your ways my ways..."

I thank you that they are not. Help me in the way I should help. Forgive me in the way I should forgive. And let me not forget...

"... declares The LORD."

I'm off!

2009-06-30T20:44:00.000-07:00

I know my posting has not been much of late but I wanted to let you all know that I have not abandoned this blog completely!

My family has decided to go on a media fast, so I will not be visiting anyones blogs. I will be back the beginning of August, hopefully with some fresh ideas! I will miss reading all you posts but will be excited to catch up later!

I will be posting pictures on The Girl in the Red Dress so please visit the site!

Until August!

Bethany

A Daughters Thoughts

2009-06-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

Papa,

Since my early years you have been my hero. None of those silly princes in fairy tales could compare to you. They weren't half as handsome as you, besides they didn't have a prickly beard to rub my cheek against. Your return home every night after work was my favorite time of day, when I didn't greet you at the door something felt wrong. With your big bear hugs you reminded me of Pa from Little House but his violin playing couldn't compare to yours. It was and still is enchanting. You lovingly coaxed beautiful tunes from it's delicate frame.

Your voice was just as beautiful when you read from books like The Old Squire's Farm and The Lord of the Rings. The songs always had a tune and every person had their own voice! Your knowledge surpasses that of the internet because your knowledge is actually worth knowing. Your delight in God and His word far surpasses that of Piper or MacArthur.

There is one final thing that none of those men- whether make believe or real- can compare to you... They aren't you. I wouldn't want Charles Ingalls or John Piper to walk me down the aisle, Lord willing, on my wedding day. Papa, know that you are loved. May this Father's Day be one of the best.

Love,

Your Bess Joy

Photo Shoot

2009-06-15T19:47:00.000-07:00

Click Here for more pictures

Photo Contest

2009-05-28T19:56:00.000-07:00

If you would like to enter go here.

The deadline is May 31st.

Hannah is hoping for lots

of entries so I urge you to enter.

Here are my entries.

[Click to Enlarge]

Proverbs 31: 10-31

2009-05-10T12:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

Mother

Orderly

Tender

Happy

Ever Present

Rich with Wisdom

Mother

Happy Resurrection Sunday!

2009-04-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

Luke 24:1-7

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead?

He is not here; He has risen!

Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.'

Acts 1:9-11

After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.
They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky?

This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."

Spring Getting to Know You Giveaway

2009-03-27T20:43:00.000-07:00

1. Give us your name and age (age is optional) please don't put your last name! Bethany Joy, 17
2. Who is in your family? My parents, four older brothers, two older sisters, one younger sister, two sisters-in-law, one brother-in-law, eight nephews and two nieces.
3. What is your favorite Bible verse? Any verse that gives me encouragement at the right moment.

4. Why is it your favorite? Because it reminds me of God giving us exactly what we need when we need it.
5. What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time? Only one thing!?!I'm sorry I can't narrow it down! Reading, sewing, cleaning etc.!
6. What is your biggest struggle as a woman? Reminding myself that being submissive is a part of our lives and it is a good thing.
7. What would you like us to talk about in the GI blog in the future? Being prepared to be single if that is God's will.
8. Who is your favorite author? Charles Dickens
9. What is your favorite Christian song or poem? Sorry this one is impossible...
10. Do you have any advice for a fellow sister in Christ? God's will is always perfect. Always obey Him.

17!!!!

2009-02-19T20:37:00.000-08:00

Today was my seventeenth birthday. I celebrated it by doing one of my favorite things...

Dressing up!

You'd think by seventeen I would have grown out of playing dress up but it is not to be. We served a "Valentine Dinner" to the residents of a nursing home. They had six girls dress up as victorian maids with a housekeeper and butler. It was a lot of fun and I think we enjoyed doing it as much as the residents enjoyed being there. We didn't get many pictures because of the serving and by the time we were done we were too tired to pose for fun pictures. But we got the one above. Enjoy!

More pictures from another downtown trip over here...

The Red Dress...

2009-01-27T18:30:00.000-08:00

More Pictures Here...

Would you mind if I introduced you to my family?

2009-01-20T21:03:00.000-08:00

Sorry, not by name but I thought you all

might enjoy seeing a picture.

This is quite a triumph for us because

we have everyone in the picture!

Gotcha Robert!

2008-12-30T20:57:00.000-08:00

Remember the post back on May 21st?

About the boy my Brother and Sister-in-law adopted?

Well here he is and he "Lawfully" became

part of our family today

We called it his "Gotcha Day".

The Big Brother.

Remember how little he looked when he arrived?

Well here he is leaving for the court house.

Not so tiny anymore!

With the Judge after he became Officially "Ours"!

A happy Papa, a boy for each arm!

The Whole Family!

All of us were able to be in the room during the procedure.

Heading out with Robert and Papa leading the way.

Robert getting to know his cousin up close and personal!

(This Cousin is Samuel)

Even surrounded by people and "trapped" in his highchair

Robert sent a smile towards the camera.

A happy mama and Robert.

Robert with his "Gotcha Cake".

A happy, tired, content boy that we can officially call part of our family.

Even though we had to wait until now to officially say

Robert was part of our family he became an official member

in our eyes from the first moment we met him.

Welcome to the Family Sweet Boy!

Winter Photo Shoot

2008-12-27T18:41:00.000-08:00

My Beautiful Sisters Abbie and Maddie.

More Pictures over here...

John 8:12...

2008-12-24T18:46:00.000-08:00

"Again Jesus spoke to them, saying,

"I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness,

but will have the light of life.""

Merry CHRISTmas.

I'm Dreaming...

2008-12-23T09:35:00.000-08:00

...of a white Christmas

Just like the ones I've never seen

Where the treetops shiver,

and children listen

To hear snow plows on the street

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas

With every Christmas card I write

May your days be merry and bright

And may all your Christmases be white

As we've said every other year...

"Maybe we'll have a white Christmas!"

Christmas Decorations

2008-12-19T17:32:00.000-08:00

Life has been busy as of late.

My Christmas Presents are almost all finished!

Lets just say the sewing machine has gotten a good

workout of late!

We enjoyed decorating our new house.

My sister Elise got us started on these snowflakes
you see in the window.
There easy to make just go here.

Just a laugh...

Have you ever been called by Royalty?

Thanksgiving Pictures

2008-11-28T18:00:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving around our house is never a small event.

We invite family members and keep it an open invitation

until there is no food left.

This year we were up to twenty-six people

so our 'small' dining room just wouldn't cut it!

Our garage was made over and the tables were set.

The food tables were full and there were platters

inside as back up refills.

The children played around Great Grandma and brought

quiet smiles to her face.

Robert stared lovingly at his papa's papa.

Ethan Delighting in his younger cousin.

The table was set with the final signs of

Autumn sprinkled down the middle.

The table groaned under it's weight well 'Auld' acquaintance

spoke of times past and present.

Music was requested and provided.

Christmas Carols were no longer 'outlawed' from the house.

Old ears were blessed by the music but some

thought that the music deserved some closed eyed attention.

(Instrument pictures are by Maddie and Jeremy

my sister and brother)

Robert's awe was apparent.

Thanksgiving Football was replaced

by Thanksgiving Basketball for lack of yard!

God gave us a holiday to be thankful for.

2008-11-27T08:15:00.000-08:00

1 Chronicles 16:34 NIV
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; His love endures forever.

Have a Blessed Thanksgiving

In Him!

New member to Etsy

2008-11-25T15:18:00.000-08:00

My sister and I have started a new Etsy site. Stop on by!

4121 Pictures- 1 Summer

2008-11-21T17:39:00.000-08:00

Warning!! These are long!

Two Roads...

2008-11-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

ROAD LESS TRAVELED

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth

Then took the other as just as fair

And having perhaps the better claim

Because it was grassy and wanted wear

Though as for that, the passing there

Had worn them really about the same

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet, knowing how way leads onto way

I doubted if I should ever come back

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence

Two roads diverged in a wood

And I took the one less traveled by

And that has made all the difference

Robert Frost

(My Brother-in-law's Dad's favourite Poem)

Sunday Hymn

2008-10-26T13:16:00.000-07:00

REJOICE, THE LORD IS KING
Charles Wesley

Rejoice, the Lord is King! Your Lord and King adore;

Mortals give thanks and sing, and triumph evermore;

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Jesus, the Savior, reigns, the God of truth and love;

When He had purged our stains He took His seat above;

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

His kingdom cannot fail, He rules o’er earth and Heav’n,

The keys of death and hell are to our Jesus giv’n;

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

He sits at God’s right hand till all His foes submit,

And bow to His command, and fall beneath His feet:

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

He all His foes shall quell, shall all our sins destroy,

And every bosom swell with pure seraphic joy;

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice,

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Rejoice in glorious hope! Jesus the Judge shall come,

And take His servants up to their eternal home.

We soon shall hear th’archangel’s voice;

The trump of God shall sound, rejoice!

Introducing...

2008-10-24T19:07:00.000-07:00

Gideon Justus born at 4:31 October 24, 2008!

8 pounds 2 ounces, 20 1/2 inches of pure blessing!

I am in Utah with my sister "helping" (I hope!) as they

welcome this new member.

2008-10-06T18:26:00.000-07:00

My dear friends I had intended to write a lot on this blog over the summer but my life got too busy! A summer update is coming.

Now to catch up on some other things. I have been awarded two blogs by some sweet friends. The first one Was from Neesie. She gave me this award back in June (Imagine me trying to keep form getting eye contact with you as you read this!) This award is called 'You Make My Day'. I want to thank you Neesie and tell you that you truly make my day! Now to award this to others!
Elise, Meredith Ivy, Beverly, Rebekah S.. You all are such and encouragement to me! Thank you all so much for your sweets posts and spirits I am so grateful for you all.

Now the second award was from Meredith Ivy. I recently heard about her blog from my sister. It is full of great encouragement. Thank you Meredith!
And the people I pass this onto Nanna, Neesie, and Katelyn.

Thank you all for being sweet patient friends!

In Him,

Bethany

Another New Addition!

2008-09-17T19:46:00.001-07:00

Please welcome the newest member of our family. This is Samuel Allen! Enjoy the pictures of this sweet boy!

Nana and Papa (Samuel is #9!)

Daddy and Mommy

Wyatt the big brother #1 (picture taken by Jeremy the proud Daddy)

Ethan Big Brother #2 (Picture by Jeremy again!)

You Know You've Been Packing Too Long When....

2008-09-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

... your sibling (who will remain unnamed) tells you to turn the light on in the box your packing.

Yes we are moving please pray!

Babysitting...

2008-08-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

Two Exhausted Boys...

Running around the Backyard,

Getting wet and performing

a rock concert.

Even Toy Story can't keep one from yawning.

Gone Camping

2008-07-10T07:29:00.000-07:00

2008-05-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

Please Welcome the newest addition to our family Robert David. Aaron and Dana, my oldest brother and his wife, just adopted this Hispanic baby. He is fitting in well and we all love him to pieces!

2008-05-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

I love you!

And Happy Mother's Day to all you other mom's out there!

Sunday Afternoon Hymn

2008-04-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

Lead On, Oh King Eternal

Lead on, O King eternal,
The day of march has come;
Henceforth in fields of conquest
Thy tents shall be our home.
Through days of preparation
Thy grace has made us strong;
And now, O King eternal,
We lift our battle song.
Lead on, O King eternal,
Till sin’s fierce war shall cease,
And holiness shall whisper
The sweet amen of peace.
For not with swords’ loud clashing,
Nor roll of stirring drums;
With deeds of love and mercy
The heavenly kingdom comes.
Lead on, O King eternal,
We follow, not with fears,
For gladness breaks like morning
Where’er Thy face appears.
Thy cross is lifted over us,
We journey in its light;
The crown awaits the conquest;
Lead on, O God of might.

Little Girls Dress

2008-04-15T20:23:00.000-07:00

I made a dress for my niece, Evelyn's, Birthday.

After forcing her to pose for so long she wanted a picture of her 'torturers'.

My Tripod was sitting out, she sent me to the stairs and called Maddie

to come sit down. When Maddie failed to comply she gave an

exasperated groan and held her head.

I guess this means I need to watch my reactions

more closely around this three-year-old!

I am starting another blog just for photo's so come and visit!

2008-04-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

"...So she (Meg) made her wedding gown herself, sewing into it the tender hopes and innocent romances of a girlish heart."
~Little Women By Louisa May Alcott

Photo Shoot

2008-03-26T13:29:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, Evelyn, my niece, came in dressed for Easter. It was easy to get her to go outside and every picture on here was her own doing. Not once did we place her - she did it all herself. It is Evelyn's third birthday today, Happy Birthday Evie! Enjoy!

Bethany

Happy Easter!!

2008-03-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

Rejoice, the Lord Is King

Rejoice, the Lord is King! Your Lord and King adore;

Mortals give thanks and sing, and triumph evermore;

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Jesus, the Savior, reigns, the God of truth and love;

When He had purged our stains He took His seat above;

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

His kingdom cannot fail, He rules o’er earth and Heav’n,

The keys of death and hell are to our Jesus giv’n;

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

He sits at God’s right hand till all His foes submit,

And bow to His command, and fall beneath His feet:

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

He all His foes shall quell, shall all our sins destroy,

And every bosom swell with pure seraphic joy;

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice,

Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Rejoice in glorious hope! Jesus the Judge shall come,

And take His servants up to their eternal home.

We soon shall hear th’archangel’s voice;

The trump of God shall sound, rejoice!

Please read the lyrics for the song playing here!

Hello my friends...

2008-03-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

I am coming in for a moment to say hello to you all and thank you for your sweet comments on my birthday. I have started a job up the road from our house as a mothers helper so my days have been full of school, working, sleeping, chores and more school, not exactly in that order!

I would have tried to come up with something more clever or thought provoking tonight

but I need sleep so as to wake up at five thirty in the morning maybe next time though.

I will be posting a paragraph from a book on my other blog so please visit there. I will be busy

for the next few weeks so please don't feel ignored.

I will be B.W.O.ing for awhile.

Love to you all

Bethany

2008-02-19T21:37:00.000-08:00

( My sister and me)

I am Sixteen
As usual I don't 'feel' much different,but my Hope Chest is already filling up!

Sorry I couldn't get a picture of it for you all to see :^(

Thank you all for blessing me over the last year!Have a blessed week!

~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~`~

2008-02-14T15:02:00.000-08:00

............................................................................

2008-02-08T18:47:00.000-08:00

Can you think of a caption?
Let me know what it is!

The Story of The Pretty Pretty Ducks

2008-01-21T18:44:00.001-08:00

'Photo Shoot' Downtown

2008-01-08T19:21:00.000-08:00

Abbie, my older sister, and I

decided to have a 'photo shoot' downtown on Saturday

These are Abbie's photos

She thought the colors looked interesting.

(Above photo)

My pictures

Abbie

A little blurry but I thought it still looked cool.

Looking up
(Picture below)

An odd picture, I know I just

thought it looked interesting.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-24T10:49:00.000-08:00

Likewise He took the cup after supper saying,
"This cup is the new covenant in My blood,
which is shed for you."
Luke 22:20
And to Mary the angel said,
"Rejoice highly favoured one the Lord is with you;blessed are you among women"
"Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest;
and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.
And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end."
Luke 1: 28-33

Sunday Hymn

2007-12-16T13:47:00.000-08:00

Oh Light That Knew No Dawn

O Light that knew no dawn,

That shines to endless day,

All things in earth and Heav’n

Are lustered by Thy ray;

No eye can to Thy throne ascend,

Nor mind Thy brightness comprehend.

Thy grace, O Father, give,

That I might serve in fear;

Above all boons, I pray,

Grant me Thy voice to hear;

From sin Thy child in mercy free,

And let me dwell in light with Thee.

That, cleansed from stain of sin,

I may meet homage give;

And pure in heart, behold

Thy beauty while I live;

Clean hands in holy worship raise,

And Thee, O Christ my Savior, praise.

In supplication meek

To Thee I bend the knee;

O Christ, when Thou shalt come,

In love remember me,

And in Thy kingdom, by Thy grace,

Grant me a humble servant’s place.

Thy grace, O Father, give,

I humbly Thee implore;

And let Thy mercy bless

Thy servant more and more.

All grace and glory be to Thee,

From age to age eternally.

Sunday Hymn

2007-12-09T14:17:00.000-08:00

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

O come, O come, Emmanuel,

And ransom captive Israel,

That mourns in lonely exile here

Until the Son of God appear.

Refrain

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.
O come, Thou Wisdom from on high,

Who orderest all things mightily;

To us the path of knowledge show,

And teach us in her ways to go.

Refrain

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free

Thine own from Satan’s tyranny;

From depths of hell Thy people save,

And give them victory over the grave.

Refrain

O come, Thou Day-spring, come and cheer

Our spirits by Thine advent here;

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,

And death’s dark shadows put to flight.

Refrain

O come, Thou Key of David, come,

And open wide our heavenly home;

Make safe the way that leads on high,

And close the path to misery.

Refrain

O come, O come, great Lord of might,

Who to Thy tribes on Sinai’s height

In ancient times once gave the law

In cloud and majesty and awe.

Refrain

O come, Thou Root of Jesse’s tree,

An ensign of Thy people be;

Before Thee rulers silent fall;

All peoples on Thy mercy call.

Refrain

O come, Desire of nations, bind

In one the hearts of all mankind;

Bid Thou our sad divisions cease,

And be Thyself our King of Peace.

Refrain

2007-11-28T19:14:00.001-08:00

She carefully views the Christmas tree

looking for where the ornament might go best.

She holds it to her when someone offers to take it for her,

'No' the one word she knew the best is spoken quietly but forcefully.

She finds the perfect spot and after trying her hand at putting it up quickly

hands it to someone pointing to the right spot...

~

2007-11-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!

I will praise the name of God with a song;

I will magnify him with thanksgiving.

Psalms 69:30

Sunday Hymn

2007-11-18T11:37:00.000-08:00

God of Grace and God of Glory

God of grace and God of glory,

On Thy people pour Thy power.

Crown Thine ancient church’s story,

Bring her bud to glorious flower.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

For the facing of this hour,

For the facing of this hour.

Lo! the hosts of evil ’round us,

Scorn Thy Christ, assail His ways.

From the fears that long have bound us,

Free our hearts to faith and praise.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

For the living of these days,

For the living of these days.

Cure Thy children’s warring madness,

Bend our pride to Thy control.

Shame our wanton selfish gladness,

Rich in things and poor in soul.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

Lest we miss Thy kingdom’s goal,

Lest we miss Thy kingdom’s goal.

Set our feet on lofty places,

Gird our lives that they may be,

Armored with all Christ-like graces,

In the fight to set men free.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

That we fail not man nor Thee,

That we fail not man nor Thee.

Save us from weak resignation,

To the evils we deplore.

Let the search for Thy salvation,

Be our glory evermore.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

Serving Thee Whom we adore,

Serving Thee Whom we adore.

A Story of Two Cousins

2007-11-16T22:21:00.000-08:00

Once there where two cousins that loved to dance
and play with each other.....

They where usually very sweet to each other and rarely
ever fought.... rarely but not never

Well one day the younger one wanted to try her luck at
showing the other the true art of dancing.
She tried everything, she tried coaxing,
she tried sweetly suggesting then she tried a little threatening.
That did not go over very well with the older cousin,
and soon the smaller cousin learned that
the bigger cousin was to be obeyed and,
well, a little feared scroll down to see why.

(The younger coaxing)

This is not a completely true story but I wanted to share it with you all.
The older cousin didn't really tackle the younger in fact
I can't remember why they ended up on the floor that way!

Childrens Book Monday

2007-11-12T09:25:00.000-08:00

Wee and the Wright Brothers
By Timothy R. Gaffney
Illustrated By Bernadette Pons

"The year 1903 was a wonderful time to be a mouse. Wee thought so anyway. Wee was a mouse. He and Mama Mouse lived with their two mousekins in a bicycle shop in Dayton, Ohio. On a small printing press above the shop they published the Mouse News, a newspaper for mice in the neighborhood. Wee wrote the stories, Mama ran the press, and their little ones sold the papers."

Wee happens to live in the famous bicycle shop run by the Wright brothers. They are what his stories are usually about, "They work quietly and with great skill," Wee reported..." Wee also knows about the what happens behind the bicycle shop and he finds it far more interesting then simply bicycles. The Wright Brothers want to fly!

"The Wright brothers didn't tell many people about their attempts to fly. But whenever they discussed it between themselves in the shop, Wee was all ears..." Wee being the creative journalist for all of mouse kind keeps them all updated on the Wright brothers progress with their Flyer.

"One day late in the summer, Wilbur and Orville began packing the Flyer into a wooden crate. Wee's little heart skipped a beat. "They're getting ready to go to Kitty Hawk." Wee wants to go along to report on all that happens and, after some thought, he states, "I will go!" Wee says goodbye to his family and gets into the crate, he is off for his first big adventure so he does what anyone else would do... he drifts off to sleep. The journey to Kitty Hawk begins on a train but when Wee wakes up he is on a boat, he soon finds that boat travel is not for him.

When they arrive in Kitty Hawk Wee makes himself comfortable in the cabin much to Orville's dismay. Wee soon receives a second identity, "Beastie", for no matter how hard he tries he cannot keep himself from dropping crumbs here and there like any normal mouse!

When they first arrive in Kitty Hawk it is summer which soon turns to Autumn, Wee waits hoping every day that it will be the day of the flight. Winter arrives and finally the men begin to prepare for the first flight. "Wee wanted to fly so badly!" So he climbs into Orville's coat pocket and waits. Wee wanted to see what it was like to fly so went Orville gets on the Flyer Wee climbs out of his pocket and grabs onto a strut. "Wee watched the ground drop away..."We're flying!" He squealed." Wee was the first mouse to ever fly! "Wee was happy...what a story for his newspaper!"

"Life would never be the same, Wee suspected. But, as he tucked in his little ones and snuggled into his nest with Mama, he felt sure one thing had not changed -- it was a wonderful tie to be a mouse.

This is a sweet story with wonderful drawings to accompany it. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!

Sunday Evening Hymn

2007-11-04T18:36:00.000-08:00

What Wondrous Love is This

What wondrous love is this,

O my soul, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this, O my soul!

What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss

To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,

To bear the dreadful curse for my soul.

When I was sinking down,

sinking down, sinking down,

When I was sinking down, sinking down,

When I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown,

Christ laid aside His crown for my soul, for my soul,

Christ laid aside His crown for my soul.

To God and to the Lamb,

I will sing, I will sing;

To God and to the Lamb, I will sing.

To God and to the Lamb Who is the great “I Am”;

While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;

While millions join the theme, I will sing.

And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;

And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on.

And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be;

And through eternity, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;

And through eternity, I’ll sing on.

Sunday Afternoon Hymn

2007-10-21T15:38:00.000-07:00

Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer

Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah,

[or Guide me, O Thou great Redeemer…]

Pilgrim through this barren land.

I am weak, but Thou art mighty;

Hold me with Thy powerful hand.

Bread of Heaven, Bread of Heaven,

Feed me till I want no more;

Feed me till I want no more.

Open now the crystal fountain,

Whence the healing stream doth flow;

Let the fire and cloudy pillar

Lead me all my journey through.

Strong Deliverer, strong Deliverer,

Be Thou still my Strength and Shield;

Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.

Lord, I trust Thy mighty power,

Wondrous are Thy works of old;

Thou deliver’st Thine from thralldom,

Who for naught themselves had sold:

Thou didst conquer, Thou didst conquer,

Sin, and Satan and the grave,

Sin, and Satan and the grave.

When I tread the verge of Jordan,

Bid my anxious fears subside;

Death of deaths, and hell’s destruction,

Land me safe on Canaan’s side.

Songs of praises, songs of praises,

I will ever give to Thee;

I will ever give to Thee.

Musing on my habitation,

Musing on my heav’nly home,

Fills my soul with holy longings:

Come, my Jesus, quickly come;

Vanity is all I see;

Lord, I long to be with Thee!

Sunday Afternoon Hymn

2007-10-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

Glorious Thing of Thee Are Spoken

Glorious things of thee are spoken,

Zion, city of our God!

He, whose Word cannot be broken,

Formed thee for His own abode.

On the Rock of Ages founded,

What can shake thy sure repose?

With salvation’s walls surrounded,

Thou may’st smile at all thy foes.

See! the streams of living waters,

Springing from eternal love;

Well supply thy sons and daughters,

And all fear of want remove:

Who can faint while such a river

Ever flows their thirst t’assuage?

Grace, which like the Lord, the Giver,

Never fails from age to age.

Round each habitation hovering,

See the cloud and fire appear!

For a glory and a cov’ring

Showing that the Lord is near.

Thus deriving from our banner

Light by night and shade by day;

Safe they feed upon the manna

Which He gives them when they pray.

Blest inhabitants of Zion,

Washed in the Redeemer’s blood!

Jesus, whom their souls rely on,

Makes them kings and priests to God.

’Tis His love His people raises,

Over self to reign as kings,

And as priests, His solemn praises

Each for a thank offering brings.

Savior, if of Zion’s city,

I through grace a member am,

Let the world deride or pity,

I will glory in Thy Name.

Fading is the worldling’s pleasure,

All his boasted pomp and show;

Solid joys and lasting treasure

None but Zion’s children know.

A Time To Say Goodbye

2007-10-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

He played 'walking up the stairs' on our fingers, as we slowly put one finger at a time on his chest and gave it a rub. He nodded yes when we asked him to and said 'Judy' lovingly when my mom walked into the room. He replied with 'Jack' when we talked with him.

Today when we uncovered the bird cages he was sitting on his perch with his eyes closed and his feathers sticking out. We held him as he slept giving him some chamomile tea in a syringe. We waited for him to wake up. He gave us 10 minutes of the old Jack, then as we carried him upstairs to put him into his cage he took his last breath.

Yes, I know he was only a bird but he was a special bird, he was our bird. We will miss Jack as will his 'roommate' Sweetie. Yes, my eyes are swollen a little bit from the many different spurts of crying today. So we've said goodbye to another pet. It was hard but we have made it through the first day without his sweet squawks and his quiet songs. So Goodbye my sweet friend....

School... Life...

2007-10-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

I tapped the keyboard and waited for our slow Internet service to respond. My patience expired I started to tap it quickly, over and over again even closing the page at one point hoping that would help. Usually I am very quick to know that there is a problem with the computer or that something has come unplugged!!!! But after reading... Oh, No...Ok this is going to sound very weird but I am not going to leave you in the dark. I just found out that all the reading I did today was for naught! I was preparing to write the page numbers on a piece of notebook paper (Remember my brain is fried!) I looked over the page one last time, and saw that on Johnson's book I was supposed to read pages 597-624 and on Spielvogel I was supposed to read 724-748. Well I read 597-624 in Spielvogel. Also I know this doesn't look like a lot of reading but the books are harder then they seem.

Anyway, so about that thing that came unplugged, yep, the keyboard was unplugged. My little sister had to tell me :^)

So this was supposed to be a quick blog about why I won't be blogging as much. My brain will be fried and free time will be precious. I will still be posting Sunday hymns and visiting all of you, but not as often :^( and I will be posting other blogs when time allows. Here is a quick picture of where I will be when I am not here. (Most of the time!) Sorry if a lot of this post doesn't make any sense!

Blessings!

Bethany

Sunday Afternoon Hymn

2007-10-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

O Sacred Head, Now Wounded

O sacred Head, now wounded, with grief and shame weighed down,
Now scornfully surrounded with thorns, Thine only crown;

O sacred Head, what glory, what bliss till now was Thine!

Yet, though despised and gory, I joy to call Thee mine.

What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered, was all for sinners’ gain;

Mine, mine was the transgression, but Thine the deadly pain.

Lo, here I fall, my Savior! ’Tis I deserve Thy place;

Look on me with Thy favor, vouch safe to me Thy grace.

Men mock and taunt and jeer Thee, Thou noble countenance,

Though mighty worlds shall fear Thee and flee before Thy glance.

How art thou pale with anguish, with sore abuse and scorn!

How doth Thy visage languish that once was bright as morn!

Now from Thy cheeks has vanished their color once so fair;

From Thy red lips is banished the splendor that was there.

Grim death, with cruel rigor, hath robbed Thee of Thy life;

Thus Thou hast lost Thy vigor, Thy strength in this sad strife.

My burden in Thy Passion, Lord, Thou hast borne for me,

For it was my transgression which brought this woe on Thee.

I cast me down before Thee, wrath were my rightful lot;

Have mercy, I implore Thee; Redeemer, spurn me not!

What language shall I borrow to thank Thee, dearest friend,

For this Thy dying sorrow, Thy pity without end?

O make me Thine forever, and should I fainting be,

Lord, let me never, never outlive my love to Thee.

My Shepherd, now receive me; my Guardian, own me Thine.

Great blessings Thou didst give me, O source of gifts divine.

Thy lips have often fed me with words of truth and love;

Thy Spirit oft hath led me to heavenly joys above.

Here I will stand beside Thee, from Thee I will not part;

O Savior, do not chide me! When breaks Thy loving heart,

When soul and body languish in death’s cold, cruel grasp,

Then, in Thy deepest anguish, Thee in mine arms I’ll clasp.

The joy can never be spoken, above all joys beside,

When in Thy body broken I thus with safety hide.

O Lord of Life, desiring Thy glory now to see,

Beside Thy cross expiring, I’d breathe my soul to Thee.

My Savior, be Thou near me when death is at my door;

Then let Thy presence cheer me, forsake me nevermore!

When soul and body languish, oh, leave me not alone,

But take away mine anguish by virtue of Thine own!

Be Thou my consolation, my shield when I must die;

Remind me of Thy passion when my last hour draws nigh.

Mine eyes shall then behold Thee, upon Thy cross shall dwell,

My heart by faith enfolds Thee. Who dieth thus dies well.

Sunday Evening Hymn

2007-09-30T16:30:00.000-07:00

Take Time To Be Holy

Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord;

Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word.

Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak,

Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.
Take time to be holy, the world rushes on;

Spend much time in secret, with Jesus alone.

By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be;

Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.
Take time to be holy, let Him be thy Guide;

And run not before Him, whatever betide.

In joy or in sorrow, still follow the Lord,

And, looking to Jesus, still trust in His Word.
Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul,

Each thought and each motive beneath His control.

Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love,

Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.

Update #3 (Final One!!!)

2007-09-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

Only one photo today since my batteries died :(
But I was able to convince them to hold on

till dinner time.

Now we are watching Sounder.

Then I 'll be watching Emma.

We love you mom!

Update #2 For Mom

2007-09-26T17:14:00.000-07:00

Still more fall colors appearing....

~Table Picture By Maddie~

Caleb did the dishes!!

We are missing you mom!

And no you have not lost your job,

we could never take it away from you!

Wish you were here to watch

Calamity Jane with us!

Updates for Mom

2007-09-25T18:02:00.000-07:00

For the next three days we (my younger sister and I) are going to be posting updates for our Mom who is visiting our older sister .

This is also a way for all of those reading to see how well I succeed at being the oldest girl available for making lunch and dinner while mom is away... Maddie will be helping as well.

Yes, I HAD to go out and get some pictures today.

We got dinner on right on time!!!!!!

Maddie caught me!

Last minute biscuits...not enough flour...

Lettuce in the perfect light.

We succeeded!!!!!

This isn't much of a post.... just some pictures

for you to feel like your here with us as well!