tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25914696512666618412024-03-13T08:07:03.033-04:00Raise Them UpFinding Frugal Family Fun<br>
. . . on the Journey of Raising ChildrenRaise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.comBlogger894125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-77721594818624302222016-01-18T11:20:00.000-05:002016-01-18T13:56:39.595-05:00The Plans I have For You Devotional and Journal: GIVEAWAY!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j3gxida75jA/Vp01IaZR8II/AAAAAAAAFa8/rOgTTVXlU00/s1600/The%2BPlans%2BI%2BHave%2BFor%2BYou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j3gxida75jA/Vp01IaZR8II/AAAAAAAAFa8/rOgTTVXlU00/s400/The%2BPlans%2BI%2BHave%2BFor%2BYou.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you have children, I can’t recommend this set of devotional materials enough! <br />
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Although the Devotional is geared for 8-12 year olds, and the journal for 11-14 year olds, I believe the set could truly be used by anyone who can read. <br />
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As I went through them, they spoke to my heart and I found myself itching to doodle my own thoughts in the journal. The only reason I didn’t is because I want my son to be able to jump into them as soon as I finish with this review!<br />
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My mom, 75, read them and said the same thing. “I really enjoyed these! I think they would be good for <em>any</em> age. They reminded me of so many things I needed to hear.”<br />
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They are both beautifully written, illustrated, and put together. The Hardcover Devotional uses Bible stories to bring out important truths about God’s plan for each one of us. It makes it plain that we are gifted for a purpose, and He longs for us to trust Him as we explore what that purpose is.<br />
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The softback Journal creatively illustrates the same key verses and gently invites us to reflect on them in a personal way. It is SO inviting! I love how the spaces for doodling, writing and drawing are scattered among the verses and illustrations.<br />
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Truly, this set will bless anyone who reads it!<br />
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If you would like to win your own set, please leave a comment below. This set would make a wonderful gift for children and adults of any age! I plan to get a few more sets so I can use one myself and give several as gifts!<br />
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Here is a bit about the author and illustrator:<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0XjktexWOl8/Vp0OGWUcrEI/AAAAAAAAFaE/pLWy1i-h5gc/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B7%25255D%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="clip_image001[7]" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cFnjR_3xfjs/Vp0OG6gfXYI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/YPm7p-QMX_Q/clip_image001%25255B7%25255D_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="clip_image001[7]" width="164" /></a><br />
<b>About author Amy Parker:</b><br />
Amy Parker has sold more than thirty books for children, teens, and adults. She has also collaborated with authors ranging from New York Times bestsellers to her very own son. Two of these collaborations are recipients of Christian retailing's Best Awards, and she has also won three Mom's Choice Awards. But Amy's greatest reward is being a wife to Daniel and a mom to their amazing sons, Michael and Ethan. <br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oVUpUDa1Hi0/Vp0OHvJIdMI/AAAAAAAAFaU/tIeL_-afBcM/s1600-h/clip_image002%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="clip_image002" border="0" height="244" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Aiklv5Hfom8/Vp0OICIxErI/AAAAAAAAFag/oCn6FPzZqLE/clip_image002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="clip_image002" width="170" /></a><br />
<b>About illustrator Vanessa Brantley-Newton:</b><br />
Vanessa Brantley-Newton is a self-taught illustrator, doll maker, and crafter. Her passion for children's books began when she came across <i>The Snowy Day</i> by Ezra Jack Keats as a child in the 1960s. Growing up in a musical family who love to sing, Vanessa's illustrations are as fun and whimsical as a beautiful melody. Vanessa currently makes her nest in Charlotte, NC with her husband of 20 years, their daughter, and a very rambunctious cat named Stripes. <br />
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To learn more, visit:<br />
<a href="http://www.zondervan.com/the-plans-i-have-for-you-devotional"><b>The Plans I Have For You Devotional Official Website</b></a><b> </b><br />
<a href="http://www.zondervan.com/the-plans-i-have-for-you-journal"><b>The Plans I Have For You Journal Official Website</b></a><b> </b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Zonderkidz/"><b>ZonderKidz Facebook</b></a><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/Zonderkidz"><b>ZonderKidz Twitter</b></a><br />
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The small print…<br />
<i>"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</i><br />
<i>Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”</i></blockquote>
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<em><strong><span style="font-size: small;">This is a giveaway I hope you all take advantage of!</span></strong> </em><br />
<em>Leave a comment by midnight Friday, January 22, 2016 and you will be entered in the random drawing Saturday! Please make sure your comment is linked to an email or a profile with an email so I can contact you should you win. Best wishes!!</em>Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-55678719397997112442015-12-31T15:45:00.001-05:002015-12-31T15:45:19.391-05:00Raise Them Up: 2016 Brings A New Phase<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Life seldom warns you when one phase ends and another begins. More often than not, you wake up one day and realize that things are not as they were. The rules have changed, and so has your role in your family. </div>
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Others can see it quite easily as they see changes in your children. But the changes are not so obvious to a mother. We are too busy packing lunches, picking up socks and going about all the things a mom does. Until one day we look up, literally, to see grown children.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lBkGrVNUZlo/VoV1-8Kr-5I/AAAAAAAAFZU/0QiLC_gqUMg/s1600/Family%2Ball%2Bsmiling%2Bin%2Bcolor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="345" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lBkGrVNUZlo/VoV1-8Kr-5I/AAAAAAAAFZU/0QiLC_gqUMg/s400/Family%2Ball%2Bsmiling%2Bin%2Bcolor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I started blogging when my boys were all young. This picture was taken that year, in 2008. There were countless stories to share about our daily life, then. I would sit down with a cup of coffee while they played in the other room, and share all of the funny stories with you. We would laugh together and comment on each other's lives, give advice where we could, and prayers when there were no words. The blogging community was such a blessing to me. God used so many of you as you encouraged me each day. As a stay-at-home mom, I looked forward to that time I set aside to share and catch up!</div>
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Only fellow bloggers can understand how real blogger friendships become. I would talk about one or another of you in this state or that, and my boys would chuckle and shake their heads saying that for a minute, they thought I <em>knew</em> you. In <em>real</em> life. As though it were different somehow. </div>
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But it wasn't. Not for me. You all were very real. And still are. I don't know how many times I think about you and wonder how things are going in your busy lives. Is your life as crazy as mine? Are you in a different phase as well? Are you still blogging? Are your children changing as much as mine are??</div>
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My family is entering a whole new phase. This picture was taken a few weeks ago on a visit to Longwood Gardens while we were out East to pick up my mom.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cEknW8ORbQs/VoRYWy5aW5I/AAAAAAAAFZE/1aNEz7zEU-U/s1600/family%2Bportrait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cEknW8ORbQs/VoRYWy5aW5I/AAAAAAAAFZE/1aNEz7zEU-U/s400/family%2Bportrait.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My oldest graduates this year. He played soccer in the fall, is a swimmer now, and will run track in the spring. He has a part-time job, plans for college, and a girlfriend who is truly beautiful both inside and out. He has changed so much! I barely see him these days.</div>
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My middle son has grown up, too. He is a junior in high school and working very hard to put himself in a position to play soccer in college. He just got his driver's permit and is looking for a job in order to save up for a car. But he still makes me giggle.</div>
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My little guy is now in the fifth grade, and not so little anymore. He still loves soccer. But this year, he has added basketball to his life and is loving it! He no longer needs me in the same tangible ways that all three needed me back when I started blogging. He has left his shy little box behind like a locust leaves it's shell. I LOVE seeing his little personality blossom! And I'm going to treasure the time I have left before he, too, moves completely into a new phase.</div>
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My mom, as I said, is staying with us for a few months. It has been several years since Dad went home to be with the Lord. And she is taking things one day at a time. We've been having a Downton Abby marathon since Christmas, trying to watch all 5 seasons again before the last (sniff, sniff) season begins. It's so nice to have her here! :)</div>
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My husband is still working hard at the same job. His responsibilities have grown, along with the hours he puts in each day. Finding time together is something we need to be intentional about if it is to happen.</div>
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Knowing so much has changed, makes me sad and nostalgic sometimes. However, I do enjoy the new relationship I have with my nearly grown sons. There are lots of things to balance. And landmines to navigate, for sure. But it's such a blessing to remain their sounding board and prayer warrior. I will always cheer them on, even when sports are left behind. </div>
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My older boys aren't the only ones entering a new phase of life. After 18 years at home raising my boys, I am reentering the classroom! Boy! So much in education has changed! But the children are still the same. And teaching still makes me happy! </div>
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I started substitute teaching in our district this fall, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity has fallen into my lap. I will be taking my little guy's 5th grade class for 7 weeks during his teacher's maternity leave starting in February. I'm am so excited! I'm also worried about whether I'll be able to step so quickly back into full swing. Substituting is one thing. Long-term substituting is quite another. </div>
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The only thing that keeps me steady is the fact that I've watched God work throughout the last few months, opening doors, and rekindling my love for teaching. Will it be a lot of work? Absolutely. But my mom has promised to help me grade papers. :) And my husband has promised to help share the taxi service we provide for our boys and all of their activities. </div>
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Will my youngest be embarrassed to have his mom teach the class? Probably, lol! But this is a gift that I think both of us will remember and treasure for the rest of our lives.</div>
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Where will blogging fit into this new phase? I have no idea! But I'd like to figure it out, and I hope you'll join me. Maybe I'll even be blessed with new friends as I begin this new phase of my life. </div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-size: large;"><em>Happy New Year, friends! </em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-size: large;"><em>May we each trust God </em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-size: large;"><em>with the plans He has for us </em></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-size: large;"><em>in 2016!</em></span></div>
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Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-38170829683126514622015-08-21T11:00:00.001-04:002015-08-21T11:00:52.502-04:00Apologetics Study Bible For Students HCSB: Winner<p><a href="http://www.lifeway.com/Product/hcsb-apologetics-study-bible-for-students-P005613475"><img alt="ApoSB_WebSlider_B1" src="http://apologeticsbible.bhpubmulti.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2015/06/ApoSB_WebSlider_B1.jpg" width="403" height="212" /></a>Congratulations to Julieanne!  I’m happy to announce that you have won a copy of this great Study Bible!  Please email me your mailing address a.s.a.p. so that I can have your copy sent to you. </p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-37305978032589257002015-08-13T12:05:00.001-04:002015-08-13T12:20:52.750-04:00Apologetics Study Bible For Students HCSB: Review and GIVEAWAY!<p>I love it when I am given the chance to review something developed with teenagers in mind!  B&H Publishing Group has partnered with Sean McDowell and a host of other talented contributors to create <i><b><a href="http://www.apologeticsbible.com/student-edition-asb/">The Apologetics Study Bible for Students</a></b></i>.  Their goal is to encourage readers who have real questions by offering straight answers and in turn, help them to develop a stronger, more confident faith.</p> <p><a href="http://www.lifeway.com/Product/hcsb-apologetics-study-bible-for-students-P005613475" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0px 0px 5px" alt="ApoSB_WebSlider_B1" src="http://apologeticsbible.bhpubmulti.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2015/06/ApoSB_WebSlider_B1.jpg" width="403" height="212" /></a></p> <p>As my 16 and nearly 18 year olds stand on the threshold of College, I often find myself wondering if we have prepared them well enough.  Is their faith-foundation strong enough to withstand the secular influences on the horizon?  Will they seek answers from God’s word when their thinking is challenged?  Or will they drift away from fellowship and become sad statistics in the trend of young people leaving the church?</p> <p>In the email offering me the chance to take a look at this new study Bible, this paragraph caught my attention.</p> <blockquote> <p>The Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB works against that trend by helping anchor younger Christians in the truths of Scripture, equipping them with thoughtful and practical responses for whenever the core issues of their faith and life are challenged, while helping them better articulate their beliefs with non-believers.  A Confident Faith - isn't that something we all strive to have!!!  </p> </blockquote> <p>I immediately thought of my 16 year old.  He is an amazing young man with the biggest heart of anyone I know.  Yet he doesn’t enjoy leading, and often looks to the values of his friends to access where he is in life.  I get it.  He’s a peer-oriented teenager.  </p> <p>Thankfully, he often talks to me about what he’s thinking.   And we get to share what we think God is trying to teach us.</p> <p>But I won’t always be there to help frame his struggles in a Biblical Worldview.  Or to help him come up with answers when friends and teachers say things contrary to God’s Word.  His faith will stand or fall based on the sureness of the stones he, himself,  has used to build it.  </p> <p><a href="http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/products/apologetics-study-bible-for-students-hardcover/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 5px; display: block" alt="ASB_students_cover" src="http://3l8hvo31a7yc2inkkn1eprjd.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2015/06/ASB-students-cover-251x300.jpg" width="202" height="241" /></a></p> <p>I think this Bible will be perfect for him!</p> <p>Here are some of the features included in the <a href="http://www.apologeticsbible.com/" target="_blank">The Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB:</a></p> <ul> <ul> <li>Two-color design-intensive layout <em>(it’s easy to read!)</em></li> <li>60 "Twisted Scriptures" explanations (<em>Answers for when people twist the scriptures to mean something different then what it was intended to say.)</em></li> <li>50 "Bones & Dirt" entries (archaeology meets apologetics) </li> <li>50 "Notable Quotes" </li> <li>25 "Tactics" against common anti-Christian arguments </li> <li>20 "Personal Stories" of how God has worked in real lives </li> <li>20 "Top Five" lists to help remember key apologetics topics</li> </ul> </ul> <p>These helps and discussions are framed and placed throughout the pages.  Like well-placed-pictures, they add clarity and insight to the text.   My favorite of these are the <em>Bones and Dirt</em> notes that detail how various archeological discoveries lend confidence to the accuracy of God’s Word.</p> <p>My only wish is that some of the notes delved a little deeper into the topics they cover.  Although I understand that it is designed for youths, I think there are many critical thinkers like my son among them that would benefit from deeper discussions.</p> <p>My son is really enjoying this Bible, and I highly recommend that parents and youth leaders take a look at it.  </p> <p>*****************************************************************************</p> <p><strong><em><font size="4">Confident Faith Sweepstakes</font></em></strong></p> <p>If you would like to enter the Confident Faith Sweepstakes <em>to receive FREE weekly tools to use & share including <a href="http://www.apologeticsbible.com/"><strong>16 short, energetic teaching videos from author, Sean McDowell.</strong></a></em>, you can do so <em><a href="https://app.promo.eprize.com/confidentfaith/" target="_blank">(here).</a></em></p> <p><img style="margin: 0px 0px 5px" alt="ApoSB_WebArt2_Video_A4" src="http://apologeticsbible.bhpubmulti.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2015/06/ApoSB_WebArt2_Video_A4.jpg" width="389" height="187" /></p> <p>I watched a few of these videos and think they are great conversation starters for you and your teens!</p> <p>*******************************************************************************</p> <p><font size="4"><strong>Now, For the Giveaway…</strong></font></p> <p><font size="4"><font size="2">If you would like a chance to receive a copy of <em><strong>The Apologetics Study Bible for Students</strong></em>, please leave a comment on this post by noon Thursday, August 20, 2015.  A winner will be chosen at random from among the comments.  </font>  </font></p> <p>*******************************************************************************</p> <p><i>"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</i></p> <p><i> Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”</i></p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-51681151537924032822015-05-11T13:37:00.001-04:002015-05-11T13:37:13.158-04:00Spring At Our House<p>I can’t remember the last time I shared pictures just for fun.  So today, I want to take you on a walk around our yard.  Are you up for it?</p> <p>This is the row of trees out by the road.  My husband planted them as little 18 inch sticks 12 years ago.  The blooms on our red bud tree in contrast are just beautiful!  And if you look closely just past the line of trees, you can see my neighbor’s white dog wood trees in bloom.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lay-Pp7SjK0/VVDor1rU65I/AAAAAAAAFXI/YybNcvf-Iag/s1600-h/by%252520road%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="by road" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="by road" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WNAvnZyD4ek/VVDosiJUagI/AAAAAAAAFXQ/_wZwloKRtR0/by%252520road_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="428" height="321" /></a></p> <p>I took the next picture standing in our driveway and looking across our front yard.  The burgundy barberry, lavender creeping phlox and flowering crab apple tree look so nice together! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iX9PPEM9eig/VVDotqZ1Y4I/AAAAAAAAFXY/CTdxB1BbSZ4/s1600-h/front%252520yard%252520between%252520beds%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="front yard between beds" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="front yard between beds" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KkTtxlyJWkI/VVDouakom3I/AAAAAAAAFXg/x_eqMMhsZNk/front%252520yard%252520between%252520beds_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="428" height="292" /></a></p> <p>One of my favorite places, though, is out back.  If you walk out behind our house and through the woods a little bit, you come to our neighbor’s pond.  My husband helped him build it and so he welcomes us any time we like to enjoy it.  It’s so peaceful!</p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--F4En52PWrM/VVDovXWNOtI/AAAAAAAAFXo/yrpKCyH5T38/s1600-h/Big%252520tree%252520by%252520dock%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Big tree by dock" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Big tree by dock" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2VeZTo_fby8/VVDowNkGznI/AAAAAAAAFXs/afwVl5Cmclo/Big%252520tree%252520by%252520dock_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="432" height="295" /></a></p> <p>If you walk just past the big tree above and look out to the left, there is a big field of clover.  It is SO pretty, especially under a clear blue sky.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fIcHs-NbxXQ/VVDow1Pdh-I/AAAAAAAAFX4/dRCV_f5-DCU/s1600-h/Far%252520side%252520of%252520dock%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Far side of dock" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Far side of dock" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RlGXbgXKGgE/VVDoxvG7l7I/AAAAAAAAFX8/kfOHPzL0p9w/Far%252520side%252520of%252520dock_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="432" height="295" /></a></p> <p>Did you notice that the sides of the pictures are blurred just a bit?  That’s because I was experimenting a little bit in preparation for taking pictures for my oldest son’s prom, lol!  </p> <p>Yes, I said prom.  My oldest son’s girlfriend is a senior and so he got to take her to the senior prom.  I’m hoping to get a few of those pictures posted very soon!  That is, if any of you are interested! <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-winkingsmile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Winking smile" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OrNORm-tLUA/VVDox1ljNdI/AAAAAAAAFYE/sOJ_uyKtuo0/wlEmoticon-winkingsmile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" /></p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-50338680096650283882015-04-28T00:39:00.001-04:002015-04-28T00:39:00.539-04:00Christy Nockels: Let It Be Jesus<p>I had no idea who Christy Nockels was a few weeks ago.  And now my husband and I are super big fans!  Thank you so much, Fly By Promotions, for introducing us to this beautiful album!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YvQNgU4qnDs/VT8O3jL5MPI/AAAAAAAAFWg/c8LgZlnQqsM/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="clip_image001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="clip_image001" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mEB5kwvDZh8/VT8O4iFR6mI/AAAAAAAAFWo/a05rmkqB_Ic/clip_image001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" height="407" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/let-it-be-jesus-live/id982617845"><strong><em>Let It Be Jesus</em></strong></a> (released today!)<strong><em> </em></strong>is Christy’s third solo album and it is beautifully performed, completely worshipful and an absolute pleasure to listen to.   I wish I could somehow include a sample right here for you.  Because I know you would love it as much as we do.  However, you can listen to a sample from the link above and see for yourself.</p> <p>Two of our favorite songs are <em>Let It Be Jesus</em> and<em> Find Me At The Feet Of Jesus.</em>  What powerfully worshipful songs!  Can I put those two words together??  I hope so.  Because the songs on this album are more than worshipful.  They truly lead my heart in a powerful way to the feet of Jesus.  </p> <p>Christy has been a worship leader for many years and an integral part of Passion Conferences from its inception in 1997.  I can only imagine how many hearts her music has touched.  </p> <p><em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/let-it-be-jesus-live/id982617845">Let it Be Jesus</a></em> is a keeper friends. Seriously. I hope Christy makes many more albums!  And I hope you’ll give this album a try.  You won’t regret it!!</p> <p>If you would like the chance to win a free download of the entire album, please leave a comment below.  I’ll be drawing a winner on Friday.  </p> <p><font color="#8fb08c" size="1">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”</font></p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-20756397717215429002015-04-20T16:20:00.001-04:002015-04-20T16:20:14.962-04:00Flying Boots and Hallway Makeovers<p>We have two hallways.  One leads to the bedrooms, the other to the garage.</p> <p>The bedroom hallway is close to 40 feet long.  I should have painted it when we moved in, because I’m pretty sure it only had primer on it.  However, I kept pushing it off.  (Because it’s <font size="3">40 feet long</font>.)  Twelve years and the-constant-abuse-of-three-active-boys later it was still occupying the bottom spot on my to-do list.</p> <p>So when the wall directly across from my oldest son’s bedroom received a shoe sized hole, eh hem, I decided it was time.  </p> <p>A very nice friend of the family gave my son lessons in drywall repair.  And for the next two weekends, my son got plenty of painting practice.  </p> <p>To my way of thinking, if you are going to pitch a boot and have to touch up one repaired place, you might as well repair the rest of the dings and dents and paint the whole hall.  </p> <p>That, and whatever else needs to be painted.  <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-winkingsmile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Winking smile" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j8BkMRtKJlY/VTVfaFFzuYI/AAAAAAAAFVs/RdxeiQrx3rA/wlEmoticon-winkingsmile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" /></p> <p>He did a wonderful job!  No joke.  And had a great attitude while making things right.  Plus, I’m pretty sure his boots won’t hit the wall again anytime soon!  </p> <p>The paint I picked out was white with a touch of blue/grey in it. </p> <p>While my painter was busy, I cleaned our dusty hall spot lights.  <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s5UzWLcKfM0/VTVfcRPFRoI/AAAAAAAAFV0/LwdlS0gG2Xg/s1600-h/bedroom%252520hall%252520collage%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="bedroom hall collage" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="bedroom hall collage" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KneTUGzO5uw/VTVfdJQEauI/AAAAAAAAFV8/ccMKouwTj4g/bedroom%252520hall%252520collage_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="418" height="425" /></a>I know it’s hard to see any difference, but trust me.  It is much brighter and looks worlds better.  No more scuffs, dents and handprints.  We’ll see how long it lasts.</p> <p>Because <strike>I’m a true slave driver</strike> we had all the painting supplies out, I decided the garage hallway needed to be freshened up, too.  </p> <p>That hall was dusty mauve when we moved in.  At the time, I painted it a neutral beige which looked some better.  But it still felt dark.  </p> <p>Since we liked how the bedroom hall turned out, we decided to use the same light blue/grey. </p> <p>Painting walls with high ceilings are a bit of a pain.  I hate ladders.  But using an extension rod and roller makes it SO much easier.  If you have high ceilings, I highly recommend picking up an extension pole from your local paint department.  (Wal-Mart stocks several lengths and they are very reasonable.)  I also recommend a rectangular paint pad with wall guard.  It makes cutting in go much faster.  And at those heights, that’s a good thing!  You can even put it on the extension pole, at least for certain angles.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l2crBxmcOI0/VTVfeNkAYwI/AAAAAAAAFWE/ZraoBec_XaM/s1600-h/garage%252520hall%252520collage%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="garage hall collage" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="garage hall collage" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sBg5u8wFOxw/VTVffQg_kpI/AAAAAAAAFWM/xCnyUUFF4WM/garage%252520hall%252520collage_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="401" height="438" /></a></p> <p>I think it made a big difference!  Don’t you?  It’s so much brighter!  </p> <p>It sure is exciting what can happen when a boot hits the wall!  I can hardly wait for one of my darling boys to let something else fly!  Lol!</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-88796875515899734222015-04-07T09:45:00.001-04:002015-04-15T09:55:42.471-04:00Grace of God; A STORY of EASTER TRADITIONS (Review)<p>Grace is defined as God’s kindness towards us even when we don’t deserve it.  </p> <p>The most beautiful example of grace is God sending his son Jesus to die in our place.  He completely and freely paid for our entrance to Heaven  INSPITE of the sin in our lives.  He was and continues to be kind to us even though we don’t deserve it.</p> <p>Why is it then, when He provides such a deeply personal and compelling example, that grace is so tough for us to give and receive in our relationships with friends and family?</p> <p>I think the key lies in being vulnerable enough to do two things: </p> <ol> <li>admit our own failures</li> <li>appreciate the need for and extent of God’s grace in our own lives.</li> </ol> <p><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Grace-Of-God/43608981"><img title="clip_image001" style="background-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="clip_image001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3p3Ve2al3Ls/VSWBQIuExUI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/8yPl0UponBk/clip_image001%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" height="502" /></a> <br />The film <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Grace-Of-God/43608981">Grace Of God: A STORY of EASTER TRADITIONS</a> allows us to quietly watch as God weaves grace into a hurting congregation after $30,000 goes missing.  Unable to locate the missing money on their own, and hoping to avoid a public scandal, the church staff hires a private investigator.  The unsuspected thief, as well as the cynical private investigator, both find grace in the end.  And it comes, largely, because so many people are willing to become vulnerable and admit their own failings. </p> <p>This was definitely a different kind of film. It wasn’t overtly about Easter.  And it wasn’t so much entertaining or what I would call a fun family film.  Instead, it played out kind of like a courtroom drama as the investigator worked his way through interviews with everyone who had access to the church safe. </p> <p>The film provides an opportunity for each of us to examine our own heart.  I found it convicting in a number of ways.  Although the person who took the money was definitely guilty of stealing, (and of unbelievably bad judgment) we were reminded that we have ALL stolen in various ways.  We ALL fail in different ways.  And we are ALL in need of grace from both God and others. <br />   <br />Watching this film would be a great springboard into a small-group study or discussion of integrity and grace. </p> <p>Here are a few details about the film: </p> <ul> <li>Released on DVD March 24, 2015</li> <li>99 Minutes // Genre: Family, Inspirational // Rating:  NR <ul><!--EndFragment--></ul> </li> <li>John Ratzenberger (not a main character), Julia Parker, Vincent Duvall, Erin Bethea Kelsey Sanders, and Lorenzo Lamas</li> </ul> __________________________________________________________ <br /><span style="font-size: xx-small"><span style="color: #8fb08c"><i>"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. </i><i>Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”</i></span></span> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-50065917125654306502015-04-06T17:15:00.001-04:002015-04-06T17:15:03.059-04:00Easter Fun 2015<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XaIUiaqZlgQ/VSL3SgqSVKI/AAAAAAAAFTY/r1kh_Dl7hhE/s1600-h/Easter%252520Collage%2525202%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Easter Collage 2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Easter Collage 2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8xzbSo8BWoI/VSL3Tc0YUuI/AAAAAAAAFTg/kb-hQdE33FA/Easter%252520Collage%2525202_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="423" height="572" /></a></p> <p>Last week, a family friend graciously offered to bring Mom out to Indiana.  Mom used to babysit him when he was little and the two of us grew up like siblings.  It was fun to catch up with him.  And it is WONDERFUL to have Mom staying with us again!</p> <p>I can’t remember the last time we celebrated Easter together.  So it was really special.  </p> <p>Saturday, my youngest son had his first soccer game of the season.  My oldest son and his girlfriend came along to cheer and we all froze together on the sidelines.  I don’t know what I was thinking.  I need to get my car stocked back up with hats, gloves, scarves, and sleeping bags.  </p> <p>When we got home, we made tacos, watched the basket ball game, and decorated Easter Eggs.</p> <p>This year, I decided to blow eggs out and use permanent markers to color on them.  I had blown out a dozen or more before the soccer game.  So they were all dry and ready to go.</p> <p>I have to say, this was the most fun we’ve had decorating eggs in a long time.  We each grabbed an egg and sat around the coffee table in the living room, watching the game while we colored, talked, and ate jelly beans.  </p> <p>My Dad’s mom introduced us to the process of blowing out eggs when I was little.  All I remember is my cheeks hurting from blowing and blowing!  Lol!  But it wasn’t bad at all this time.  </p> <p>I had my son do the blowing!!  Live and learn. <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Smile" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-x3tij7KJSPM/VSL3T8OXhsI/AAAAAAAAFTk/hOXSEnZvlA0/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" /></p> <p>Then Sunday after church, we had a traditional ham dinner with Mom and went for a walk in the evening.  The spring flowers are just beautiful!  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-H3NTg08kTXs/VSL3UoOVzaI/AAAAAAAAFTw/qzsNSgM7X7o/s1600-h/spring%252520flowers%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="spring flowers" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="spring flowers" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-iIhDK6Rq_Lw/VSL3Vd76-cI/AAAAAAAAFT4/Vf_m9zLAUUQ/spring%252520flowers_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="406" height="633" /></a>My son went to his girlfriend’s house.  So we may or may not have texted him a picture staged to show my Mom raiding his Easter Basket.  Ha!</p> <p>What did your family do this year to celebrate Easter?</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-43149396469054003442015-01-30T16:11:00.001-05:002015-01-30T18:33:07.871-05:00Family Movie Night Giveaway: 23 BLAST<p>For the last 6 months, my middle son has been having some health issues that, depending on what we find, could potentially spell the end to his athletic dreams.  Soccer is pretty much his world.  </p> <p>After every medical test, we brace ourselves for the results.  So far, we have no answers.  That’s good.  We’ve tested for some pretty serious stuff.  And bad.  Because, well, we have no explanations for the pain he is experiencing.</p> <p>So it’s understandable that when he saw this DVD sitting on the coffee table, he took one look at the back and groaned.  “Did you get this for <em>me</em> to watch?”</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SzQjXNZNegw/VMvzhtSEmjI/AAAAAAAAFSM/3Z0nqmdpY48/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="clip_image001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="clip_image001" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3m7VmqjssaI/VMvzimUzuwI/AAAAAAAAFSU/2X4kSD9Yar0/clip_image001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="374" height="523" /></a></p> <p>“No.”</p> <p>He shot me a disbelieving look.</p> <p>I held up my hand.  “Seriously. I didn’t.  The <a href="http://23blast.com/">trailer</a> just looked really good.”</p> <p> “Yeah.  Well.  It looks like there’s a pretty strong parallel between this and me…and that would be something you would do.”  </p> <p>True.</p> <p>But I honestly hadn’t thought about the parallel. </p> <p>We invited a few friends over and had ourselves a movie night.  </p> <p><a href="http://23blast.com/">23 BLAST</a> is loosely based on the real life story of Travis Freeman, a teenage football star who loses his sight as a result of an infection.  Travis (played by Mark Hapka) must find the courage to carry on with his life.  It’s an inspiring story about overcoming obstacles and chasing your dreams.  </p> <p>The beginning of the film was a bit sketchy and I thought I might lose my teenagers to the game system in the other room.  The dialogue left out important details that would have been helpful in understanding what was going on.  And the acting was questionable (as teens like to say), especially the hospital scenes with the doctor and his parents.</p> <p>But my guys (and guests) hung in there and I’m glad they did.  Because the rest of the movie was really good!  Everyone (even all three boys) said it was a great movie!  It was funny, and touching, and totally inspiring.  And the life lessons in the mix were perfect for what my son may have to face.  I love it when God works like that!</p> <p>I especially appreciated the extra features which told more about the real life characters on which the movie was based.  Travis Freeman goes on to become a pastor.  :)</p> <p>I highly recommend this film!   </p> <p>The rating is PG13 because of a scene where Travis’ best friend Jerry is seen drinking on school grounds.  But it is brief, and portrayed as the bad choice that it is.  </p> <p>For a chance to win your own copy of this DVD film, please leave a comment below.  I will draw a winner from the comments on Friday, February 6, 2015.  Good luck!!</p> <p><i><font color="#408080" size="1">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. </font></i></p> <p><i><font color="#408080" size="1">Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”</font></i></p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-17484967382025127082015-01-29T12:06:00.001-05:002015-01-29T12:06:41.681-05:00Why I Am So Proud Of My 73 Year Old Mom<p>Around Christmas, Mom started having trouble with her cable company.  Every two or three days, they would turn off her phone and cable.  Calling them got her nowhere.  So each time, my brother would have to take her and her canceled check to the regional office.  </p> <p>After four frustrating trips, she switched to another service provider.   </p> <p>And…added…<em>INTERNET!</em>  Yep.  My 73 year old mom got internet to use with her tablet.</p> <p>She now has faster internet than we do!  Of course my boys are jealous.</p> <p>The day after she had it installed, I called her up and talked her through how to sign into face book.  She was hesitant at first, but we got it done.  It totally makes me smile now to see her <em>like</em> something someone posted.</p> <p>Next, I helped her install Messenger.  It was comical at times, because  her operating system is slightly different than what I have on my phone and it puts things in different places.  Plus, I was learning about Messenger right along with her!  I would ask her what she was seeing and then have to figure out where she was and what she had done.  I seriously expected her to give up. </p> <p>But she didn’t!</p> <p>After our very first phone lesson, she sent me this picture all by herself!</p> <p>Meet Ralph, the stray kitty that has taken up residence on her porch.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1i3TeBBiP2s/VMpolQHozkI/AAAAAAAAFRk/pAuW0oyorWo/s1600-h/Mom%252520and%252520Ralph%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mom and Ralph" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Mom and Ralph" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-53vAfYEYkes/VMpomJkHWaI/AAAAAAAAFRs/lzfF5UEnBzY/Mom%252520and%252520Ralph_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="421" height="290" /></a>I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am of her!!</p> <p>Since then, we’ve exchanged countless messages, videos and pictures.  It’s nice, because I can usually send messages even when I don’t have any signal to make or receive calls.</p> <p>I’ve sent her soccer pictures, pictures of awards ceremonies, silly hellos and even pictures of my chickens.  Why not?  I love my girls.</p> <p>Then came Words With Friends.  </p> <p>It wasn’t long before she had EIGHT games going on at once with me.  </p> <p>And she began NUDGING me when I took too long to play!   Haha!   </p> <p>Just the other night, I got up to use the bathroom and decided to play a word in one of the games before I fell back to sleep.  Within seconds, she played right back.  Surprised that she was up, I messaged her and we were able to chat at a time she wouldn’t have dreamed of calling.  And that was nice, because I know sometimes the nights are long and lonely for her. </p> <p>Earlier this week, she sent me this picture of the not-so-big-snow.  :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8-5jc51IMSs/VMpomzk612I/AAAAAAAAFR0/O_lKe7wdhX4/s1600-h/Mom%252520snow%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mom snow" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Mom snow" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HnQp2mtMg7Q/VMponz0NLcI/AAAAAAAAFR8/Q4wGOj373mw/Mom%252520snow_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="413" height="455" /></a></p> <p>It’s wonderful to be able to connect in this new way.  For so many older people, technology is a daunting thing.  And it certainly still is in many ways for Mom.  But she is trying new things, and I couldn’t be more proud of her.  </p> <p>I guess if there is a moral to this story, it would be, don’t give up on the older people in your life!  If my mom can do this, anyone can!</p> <p>And now, I need your help!</p> <p>Mom has lots of the puzzle and solitaire type games.  But do any of you have any other favorite games or apps where two people can play?    </p> <p>I’m getting worded-out.  ;p</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-7189949877188534392015-01-20T13:32:00.001-05:002015-01-20T13:32:02.680-05:00Because I Have Teenagers<p>Yes, I’m still here!  And I have a confession to make. I have been very much mistaken about what happens when your kids get older.  I seriously thought that because my boys could bath themselves, do their own homework and, with a little prompting, do their own laundry, that I would magically find a few minutes to pull out some of my forgotten pastimes.  </p> <p>I know.  You can stop laughing now.</p> <p>It’s not all bad.  It’s just not what I expected. This is our Christmas picture. It’s such a good representation of the dynamics around here…  <img title="47 4x6 final" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="47 4x6 final" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VovYBeNMVHA/VL6fIKld1yI/AAAAAAAAFRU/AW6oMV-lO2k/47%2525204x6%252520final_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="219" />…Older boys all full of crazy, youngest son still snuggly, me wondering if we’ll get the picture taken before Hubby bales out, and Hubby just barely tolerating the whole lot of us.  ;) </p> <p>My three boys, especially the teenagers, have mastered the art of monopolizing my calendar, car and kitchen even more thoroughly than they did when they were in diapers.  Some days I collapse into bed so tired that I wonder if I’ll even hear my alarm in the morning.  So I set three of them.  Can any of you relate?</p> <p>Because I have teenagers, I’m learning…</p> <ol> <li>Don’t <em>expect</em> anything in particular from teenagers.  They are completely unpredictable.</li> <li>Write everything in pencil.  They’ll make you change it five times.  Better yet, don’t bother writing anything.  Just ask them, “Where to now?”</li> <li>Hide the scissors.  Or one of the Teenagers will loose them in his room.  (Or forget he put them in his book bag and slice open his finger in school.)</li> <li>Triple your food budget.  Male athletes leave nothing but crumbs.  And when they have friends over, even the mice go hungry.</li> <li>Find a soft fuzzy blanket to leave in your car.  It makes the 5 hours you spend each day as a taxi driver a little more bearable.  </li> <li>When your son impulsively joins the swim team, even though he doesn’t know how to swim, go with it.  It will be the cleanest he’s been for a very long time.</li> <li>When one of them drops his cell phone for the 4th time in 16 months, DO take your time replacing it.  The boy will survive.  And so will his girlfriend.  He may even dust off his Nintendo DS and involve himself in real live conversations.</li> <li>Feel free to use bribes.  And food.  It’s the only way to get teenagers to spend time with the family.</li> <li>Enjoy (and remember) every hug.  Especially if your son initiates it.  :)  It will help you not to strangle him ten minutes later.</li> <li>Seize every placid moment to talk about important life stuff.  If you are lucky, you may get 49 seconds per day.</li> <li>Remind each one of your children that God has a plan for his life.  Because He does.  Encourage him to seek it.  And pray for him.</li> </ol> <p>Just my thoughts for today.  :)</p> <p>Have a wonderful Tuesday! </p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-51637959115745277202014-12-10T16:44:00.001-05:002014-12-10T16:44:43.076-05:00Looking For a Gift for Your Soccer Fan?<p>At least once every night, you will hear the squeak of my husband’s desk chair as he leans back, and yells, “HEY!  This <em>house</em> is not a GYMNASIUM!”  </p> <p>Sometimes I hear it several times.  Such is life with boys.  </p> <p>Because my boys can’t walk <em>anywhere</em> with out dribbling a ball as they go.</p> <p>That said, I wouldn’t normally encourage them to risk their lives by actually setting up goals in the hallway, lol!  However, this set of nets, the <a href="http://www.rukket.com/Rukket-Grasshopper-2X-Soccer-Goal/dp/B00HU77SKQ?class=quickView&field_availability=-2&field_browse=8906297011&id=Rukket+Grasshopper+2X+Soccer+Goal&ie=UTF8&refinementHistory=brandtextbin%2Csubjectbin%2Ccolor_map%2Cprice%2Csize_name&searchNodeID=8906297011&searchPage=1&searchRank=salesrank&searchSize=12"><font size="4">Rukket’s Grasshopper 2x3 Nets</font></a>, cries out to be used<em> inside</em>.  CRIES OUT, I tell you.  Especially when it’s muddy, cold and wet outside and the boys are driving me up a wall. </p> <p>The nets are actually the perfect size for accuracy drills and 1v1 with small balls.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qdCGBrAgTg0/VIi-wx18LAI/AAAAAAAAFQs/Egdqkt4vyxA/s1600-h/1v1%2525203%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="1v1 3" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="1v1 3" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wAdbn3lR7vg/VIi-xqVEd8I/AAAAAAAAFQ0/zkqUpyjw_k8/1v1%2525203_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="399" /></a>We’ve been using them for several weeks now--mostly inside.  (<em>Before </em>my husband get’s home from work, of course!)  ;) Surprisingly, there is actually less thumping in the hall because my guys like to use a small ball instead of a full-size soccer ball.  It’s true!  </p> <p>So, fellow soccer Moms, this might<font size="2"> actually be</font> a gift you won’t <a href="http://raisethemup.blogspot.com/2013/08/the-big-hit.html">regret giving</a>, lol!  </p> <p>Here are some pros and cons of the net set for you to consider:</p> <p> Pros…</p> <ul> <li>Comes with TWO nets, each 2ftx3ft, as well as a carry bag and stakes. </li> <li>Can be used inside or outside.</li> <li>Easy to set up—just pop them up and stabilize with the side triangles. </li> <li>Very lightweight. </li> <li>Sturdy spring steel frames—NOT fiberglass. </li> <li>Reasonably priced!  <a href="http://www.rukket.com/Rukket-Grasshopper-2X-Soccer-Goal/dp/B00HU77SKQ?class=quickView&field_availability=-2&field_browse=8906297011&id=Rukket+Grasshopper+2X+Soccer+Goal&ie=UTF8&refinementHistory=brandtextbin%2Csubjectbin%2Ccolor_map%2Cprice%2Csize_name&searchNodeID=8906297011&searchPage=1&searchRank=salesrank&searchSize=12">Just $39.00 for the set right now.</a> </li> <li>Holes in the net are tiny enough that you can use small balls—like little NERF or tennis balls—something that is really good for improving foot skills.  Or for using inside.</li> </ul> <p>Cons…</p> <ul> <li>The nets are hard to fold back up.  It’s not impossible.  However, it takes quite a bit of arm power to fold the sides in on themselves.  My 10 year old hasn’t been able to do it yet. </li> </ul> <p>These Rukket Goals are perfect for beginning soccer players.  But, honestly, they would be a great gift for any soccer fan no matter what age or skill level.   </p> <p><img title="Hallway fun" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Hallway fun" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GCq-q_8QJ7E/VIi-yelE6-I/AAAAAAAAFQ8/wwp-uPPGSZk/Hallwayfun_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="465" />Of all the nets my family has used, this is their favorite.</p> <p>Be sure to check out <a href="http://www.rukket.com/b/8906297011">Rukket’s complete line of soccer goals.</a>   They make some pretty awesome and well designed nets!  </p> <p>Please note:  <em>Rukket was kind enough to send us a set of nets to review.  But as always, the opinions expressed here are totally our own.</em></p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-7528264795348679962014-12-04T18:35:00.001-05:002014-12-04T18:35:23.570-05:00The Gospel Of John…See It Now on Netflix<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QuR7__HnG4Q/VIDvtvD8qhI/AAAAAAAAFQU/8W9lMQZ12qA/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="clip_image001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="clip_image001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Sd575l9kLi4/VIDvuZ2wKHI/AAAAAAAAFQc/EvwL1BXwTOM/clip_image001_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="416" height="431" /></a></p> <p>A brand new film, <em>The Gospel of John, </em>was released to Netflix December 1, 2014. It is the first in a series of four films presenting the Gospels<em>,</em>   Curious, I sat down with my Bible in hand to watch the 2’ 40” the NIV version, narrated by leading British actor David Harewood. </p> <p>This <a href="http://www.lumoproject.com/">Lumo Project</a> film was unlike any I’ve seen before.  Instead of the film’s characters speaking their parts, the narrator read from the book of John, word for word, unedited, and in its entirety.  And instead of Hollywood-style deviations from Scriptural integrity, the scenes were presented tastefully, and true to text.</p> <p>Bravo!  </p> <p>Presently, you have three choices for narration.  You can choose from the New International Version (read by David Harewood), the King James Version (read by Brian Cox), and the Reina-Valera 1960 Spanish Language version.  As I understand it, The Lumos Project hopes to eventually offer the films in other languages, as well.</p> <p>The beautiful scenes were carefully chosen to create authentic looking sets and characters.  It’s kind of like a moving picture-book of the epistle of John.  A very long picture book!  :)  </p> <p>There were large numbers running at the bottom of the screen.  But they didn’t seem to correlate to chapter and verse (which would have been cool) or even time elapsed.  So I’m unsure why they were there.  Perhaps the numbers only exist on the viewing link I was sent?  If anyone can explain them, I would greatly appreciate it! </p> <p>In my opinion, the only thing that could have made it better (besides accurate and running scripture tags throughout the film for quick referencing) was if it had been filmed on location in the Holy Land.  Having been there myself, I found myself distracted by scenery that didn’t match the images in my mind.  Still, producers chose well their locations in Morocco to resemble those of first century Palestine.</p> <p>These films have created a brand new way to bring the words of the Gospel to hearts and minds around the world.  I love the idea and pray that God will use each film to bring people to himself.</p> <p>I’m looking forward to seeing the book of Luke. I think it will be nice to watch the first couple chapters with my family as a reminder of what Christmas is all about.</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-50802392124833448622014-11-19T08:00:00.001-05:002014-11-19T08:10:40.599-05:00Buck Denver asks…Why Do We Call It Christmas? (DVD Giveaway!)<p><b><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XwhZAgAFYDU/VGyWyWIYbBI/AAAAAAAAFP8/CSTNqwFgD30/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="clip_image001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="clip_image001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0UuWqY_bpQQ/VGyWzmfP-2I/AAAAAAAAFQE/ziaTj39LfTU/clip_image001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="392" height="541" /></a></b></p> <p>This is my first experience with VeggieTales-creator Phil Vischer’s new <em>Buck Denver</em> series.  In a full 60 minute video, Phil uses a comical group of puppets in to explain where some common Christmas-time traditions and terms come from, such as<strong>…</strong> </p> <ul> <li>-Where do we get the word <i>Christmas?</i> </li> <li>-When was Jesus born? </li> <li>-What do Christmas trees have to do with Jesus? </li> <li>-Who is St. Nicholas? </li> <li>-What is Hanukkah? </li> <li>-Who is Emmanuel? </li> <li>-Luke 2 Story </li> </ul> <p>One of my favorite things about Veggie Tales videos, apart from how much my kids loved them, has always been the many one-liners aimed at adults in the room.  </p> <p><em><strong><a href="http://store.whatsinthebible.com/collections/christmas/products/why-do-we-call-it-christmas">Why Do We Call It Christmas</a></strong></em> has some of the same snicker-producing moments.  When a puppet mentions the Maccabees, the little girl promptly interrupts with, “Once my <em>dad</em> was stung by a pack-of-bees!”  Cracked me up.  Another was when a puppet’s pick-up truck broke down leaving them stranded.  He said he felt like writing a Country Song (snicker).  </p> <p>Here’s a trailer:</p> <div id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:7e255fc7-31b9-4641-97a0-3306bfb13e8a" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent" style="float: none; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px"><div><object width="380" height="214"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/VkQOWkvE_VY?hl=en_US&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/VkQOWkvE_VY?hl=en_US&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="380" height="214" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div></div> <p>This DVD really is a fun way to help older kids (and their parents) understand the origins of our Christmas traditions as well as the significance of the Christmas story itself.  It would be a wonderful addition to any family’s Christmas video collection.  I plan to share mine with my son’s 4th and 5th grade Sunday school class as well as offer it up during my teens’ Christmas party. I’m pretty sure they will all be cracking up!</p> <p>In all honesty, I tend to prefer the cartoon veggies over puppets.  But, my ten year old said he liked the puppets way better.  ;) In any case, we each enjoyed the video and learned some things in the process! </p> <p>If you would like the chance to win your own DVD copy just in time for Christmas, please leave a comment below!  A winner will be chosen from among the comments on Friday.   As always, please make sure I have a way to contact you!</p> <p align="center">* * *</p> <p><i><font color="#408080" size="2">"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</font></i></p> <p><i><font color="#408080" size="2">Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”</font></i></p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-5139130196616282632014-11-13T08:55:00.001-05:002014-11-13T09:57:42.644-05:00Growing Up Social: raising relational kids in a screen-driven world (Book Review and Giveaway)<p>“WHAT is THAT?” my 17 year old son asked, as he paused to look at the new book on our coffee table.  He read the title out loud.  “Growing Up Social…”<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-ANoYvKA1k"><img title="clip_image001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="clip_image001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-r5xMZybLtEY/VGS4UTmJYWI/AAAAAAAAFP0/C-3ucwfCunY/clip_image001%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="347" height="510" /></a></p> <p>“OH man.”  His eyebrows went up and his voice dripped with disapproval.  “…<em>Raising relational kids in a screen-driven world…?  </em>Yikes, Mom.  This book looks highly questionable.”  He put down the book and continued walking, shaking his head and texting as he went.</p> <p>No doubt he sensed an impending threat to his electronic apple cart.</p> <p>I giggled, reminded of how my kids beg me not to go out with my girlfriends.  They think the sole purpose of our outings is to collaborate on fantastic new discipline tactics.  I’m sure he pictured this book inspiring fabulous round-table-discussions at next outing.  I love it. </p> <p>Like many of my mom-friends, I have worried about how much of our family time is being sucked into the black hole of electronics.  </p> <p>Screens are everywhere.  They’re at home, in the schools, in the stores, along the streets, and even in our pockets.    </p> <p>It’s not uncommon for my teenagers to sit in front of the TV, with their homework spread out in their lap, a pencil in one hand, a phone in the other and a set of ear buds hanging from one ear.  They text, listen to music, watch Sports Center, AND… according to them…are “<em>doing their best work</em>” on a school project. <em></em></p> <p>Last night, I caught my 15 year old doing all of the above, only his pencil was in his mouth so he could hold his phone<font size="3"> <em>and</em></font> his IPod.  </p> <p>He was the poster child for electronic intervention.</p> <p>Even in the car, I find myself talking to the kids and waiting for an answer----only to realize that not a single child can hear me.  Each one of them is absorbed in his screen while an ear bud plugs up every single ear. </p> <p>It’s tempting to hold an ear-bud-burning.  </p> <p>As a mother of two teenagers (as well as a ten year old), I know how hard it is to establish unpopular limits on screen time.  Today’s kids do everything electronically.  </p> <p>Yet, adult electronic-dependency is growing as well.  Eye-contact is fast becoming a rarity.  Screens are given priority over real life.  </p> <p>When you have to practice defensive driving while pushing a cart in Wal-Mart, there might be a problem, yes?</p> <p align="center">*  *  *</p> <p align="left">So I jumped at the chance to read this book!  It could not have come at a better time for me as a mom.  If you would like to see a trailer of the book, you can click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-ANoYvKA1k">here</a>.</p> <p align="left">In <strong><em><a href="http://www.5lovelanguages.com/resource/growing-up-social/#share">Growing Up Social</a></em></strong>, Gary Chapman and Arlene Pellicane lay out eye-popping statistics that will have parents sitting up and taking notice of how their kids spend their time.  I found myself inspired to take back our “minivan”, our home, and our family time.  </p> <p align="left">I’m sure my guys will be delighted, lol! </p> <p>Gary and Arlene have written this book to help us evaluate how and when our family uses screen time, and offer practical suggestions on ways we can set healthy limits.</p> <p>They challenge us to help our children develop healthy social habits, which of course need to be modeled in our own lives.  Be prepared to be convicted.  I know I was.  Just saying.  ;)</p> <p>They also encourage parents to consider the love languages of their children in order to make sure each of their love tanks are being filled.  When screens babysit a child, valuable opportunities for the parent to connect with that child are missed. </p> <p>To be sure, there are wonderful things to be gained from advances in technology. But there are also tangible costs and real dangers that parents need to consider.  A screen will never replace a person’s need for relationship.  </p> <p>I highly recommend this book!!!</p> <p>If you live in the US or Canada, and would like the chance to win your own copy, (and thrill your own teenager, lol!) leave a comment below by Monday, November 17, 2014.  Please be sure there is a way I can contact you should you win.  The winner will be notified on Tuesday the 18th.</p> <p>Good luck!!  This is truly a book worth reading!</p> <blockquote> <p><font color="#408080" size="2"><strong>"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</strong></font></p> <p><font color="#408080" size="2"><strong>Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”</strong></font></p></blockquote> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-21861934523299650762014-10-29T13:30:00.001-04:002014-10-29T13:40:25.154-04:00Full-Fledged Denial<p>I didn’t announce it on Face Book. </p> <p>I didn’t text my friends or tweet a tweet.</p> <p>I didn’t even take a picture to put in a scrapbook. </p> <p>The only person we called was my mom.  And sadly, she let me down with a totally inappropriate response.  I let my son do the calling, but I could hear her excited voice just as plain as day.</p> <p>My oldest son got his learner’s permit last night.  He passed his test, they took a picture, and I paid the fee.  End of story.</p> <p>Most of me wants to relegate it as a nonevent.  Because if it’s no big deal, I can go on thinking my first baby boy isn’t changing as fast as he is.  </p> <p>He’s not growing facial hair and texting girls non-stop.</p> <p>He’s not getting serious about what college to attend.</p> <p>And most importantly, he’s not going to be sitting in a seat surrounded by 2000 pounds of certain death if he doesn’t pay attention.</p> <p>I’ll be ok.  I know I can’t stop the clock.  And I’m as proud as can be of the young man he is becoming.  I just need a moment (or ten) to dig my way out of this pile of denial.</p> <p>Sigh.</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-15165829733302059182014-10-27T22:54:00.001-04:002014-10-29T09:35:04.503-04:00Grasshopper 4'x6' Soccer Goal by Rukket<p>Anybody for some back yard soccer?  Well, come on over! The fall soccer season may be over, but soccer never ends in our back yard!<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hz4v15wManU/VE8Ezy9IySI/AAAAAAAAFNc/Y5Ogrw4eqJQ/s1600-h/HS%252520test%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="HS test" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="HS test" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fdSDD_6hMC0/VE8E12GdjJI/AAAAAAAAFNk/C4N1vmWEJJE/HS%252520test_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="431" height="283" /></a> </p> <p>To that end, Rukket has developed another soccer goal and has graciously allowed my family to share it with our club (and you!) and to put it to the test!  </p> <p>As with the first <a href="http://raisethemup.blogspot.com/2013/08/review-el-diablo-portable-soccer-net-by.html">Rukket net we reviewed</a>, the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Grasshopper-4x6-Soccer-Goal-Rukket/dp/B00NSXFBY6/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1414430729&sr=1-1&keywords=rukket+soccer">Grasshopper 4’x6’ Goal</a> appears to be well-made.</p> <p>It arrived disassembled in a tall skinny box.  It wasn’t the easiest thing to put together.  It definitely helped to have one person feed the poles through the sleeves, and one on the floor guiding the ends into the elbow fittings.  Thankfully, you only have to do that for the initial set up.  After that, you simply fold and store, or unfold and play.</p> <p>Our U10 team was the first to try it out and they loved it!<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yw9PXt_UdMo/VE8E_rWeFZI/AAAAAAAAFNs/NU06EyXW7NM/s1600-h/shots%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="shots" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="shots" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xPGNFR1jb6s/VE8FFAe0k5I/AAAAAAAAFN0/VL6aMQwVrwk/shots_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="419" height="394" /></a> They learned very quickly, however, that Rukket provides stakes for a reason.  :)<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GqHaLcDR4BA/VE8FIDiCrtI/AAAAAAAAFN8/VkJz5kXZzO4/s1600-h/stakes%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="stakes" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="stakes" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SAB2pk60Dac/VE8FJ4edPuI/AAAAAAAAFOE/Ee-0DCguszQ/stakes_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="417" height="339" /></a>Although the net stayed in place better when pinned down, they still needed to reposition it frequently and push the stakes back down (soft ground, maybe?).  But that’s pretty much expected with any portable net.  Plus, the sign of a great shot is how far the net moves, right?  Lol!<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1gMG_pcAEuQ/VE8FLsoY5dI/AAAAAAAAFOM/oWy41LmEhtE/s1600-h/shot%252520on%252520goal%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="shot on goal" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="shot on goal" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Fph6QJEKsJE/VE8FNtaBh6I/AAAAAAAAFOU/KNPhhSvymQU/shot%252520on%252520goal_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="423" height="359" /></a> My high school players also put it to the test.  Since they have used all kinds of nets, I asked them for some honest feedback.  If there is one thing I’ve come to expect, it’s brutal honesty from teenagers. Here are the pros and cons they listed:</p> <p></p> <p><strong>Pros…</strong></p> <ol> <li>Really light weight </li> <li>Well made </li> <li>Easy to setup/fold down </li> <li>Material seems nice </li> <li>Good size </li> <li>Perfect for subdivisions that don’t have huge yards, or where a permanent net might not be permitted </li> <li>Could be used indoors. </li> <li>Has two side pockets in which water bottles or other things can be placed to weight the net down (for indoor use or where you can’t use stakes) </li> <li>Comes with 4 stakes. </li> </ol> <p><strong>Cons…</strong></p> <ol> <li>A pain to initially put together.  But no more than with any other net that has sleeves and poles—and you only have to do it once.</li> <li>Stakes don’t hold well if a player blasts the ball.  We found it works best though when we put the front two stakes on the strap across the goal at each corner.  </li> <li>Still fairly large when all folded up.  </li> </ol> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9U0JXtnaVCU/VFDtAyX7eXI/AAAAAAAAFPE/wLo5Z0fPcu4/s1600-h/folded%252520up%252520measurements%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="folded up measurements" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-right: 0px" border="0" alt="folded up measurements" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DlATVgOJS9o/VFDtBvzYpVI/AAAAAAAAFPM/vbn3CWPVlXc/folded%252520up%252520measurements_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="436" height="305" /></a></p> <p>I agree that it’s still pretty big when folded up.  Note the measurements above. It just  barely fit in the back of my Subaru Outback with the top of the net resting on the back head rest.  However, it easily fit in the back of my Expedition.  I share that so you will have a realistic expectation about how you will use it and whether or not it will fit in your vehicle for a game at the park. </p> <p>Because of it’s size--both set up and folded--we think this goal is best suited for back yard soccer.  I love that it’s fairly big, yet easily folds flat for storage when it’s not in use!  Mowing around big heavy nets is highly overrated, lol!</p> <p>I would definitely recommend this net to friends.  Keep up the good work Rukket!  And thank you for making a product that encourages kids to go out back and practice what is fast becoming a major sport in America!</p> <p><em><font color="#408080">Rukket was kind enough to send us a net to review.  But as always, the opinions expressed here are totally our own.</font></em></p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-81271836516249049542014-10-23T15:14:00.001-04:002014-10-23T15:14:29.810-04:00Easy and Delicious Crock Pot Apple Crisp…That You Can Make While You Camp!<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Jt6m6J0uvbI/VElTkCxGjTI/AAAAAAAAFNE/kwOBpb7dU-o/s1600-h/preparing%252520apples%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="preparing apples" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="preparing apples" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kiuNw9Hux8M/VElTlNJzynI/AAAAAAAAFNM/uUJ3gdz9bz0/preparing%252520apples_thumb%25255B21%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="418" height="471" /></a> </p> <p>What could be better than savoring a spoonful of warm apple crisp as you sit around the campfire with friends and family??  </p> <p>This was the first time I tried this and I will definitely be making it again!   </p> <p><strong><font size="4">Crock Pot Apple Crisp</font></strong> (Great for Fall Camping!!)</p> <ul> <li><strong>6-8 medium baking apples, </strong></li> <li><strong>1 tsp lemon juice (to toss the prepared apples in to keep them fresh), </strong></li> </ul> <p><strong>…Crumb Topping</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>2/3 cup quick-cooking oats, </strong></li> <li><strong>2/3 cup flour, </strong></li> <li><strong>1/2 tsp cinnamon, </strong></li> <li><strong>1/2 cup brown sugar</strong></li> <li><strong>1/2 tsp nutmeg, </strong></li> <li><strong>1/2 cup butter, softened (not melted)</strong></li> </ul> <p><strong>And if you like your apple crisp sweet…</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>a container of sugar and cinnamon</strong> to sprinkle on the apples before you add the topping, or on each serving once it’s cooked to suit your taste.  </li> </ul> <p>Before you leave home, use a pastry blender to combine the butter and dry ingredients, then toss the mixture into a zip lock bag and put it into the cooler to take with you.  </p> <p>At the campsite, peel and slice 6-8 apples right into the crock pot. (If you use a liner, you won’t even have to clean the crock pot afterwards!)  We skipped the lemon juice since our cooler space was limited. Sprinkle the apple slices with sugar and cinnamon and stir them up if you like your crisp a little sweeter.</p> <p>Dump the crumb mixture on top of the apples, place a double paper towel between the lid and the crock to absorb moisture, and cook on high for 2 hours, or until apples are tender.  </p> <p>Scoop, sprinkle with more sugar and cinnamon to taste, and enjoy!  </p> <p>Yep, I have a pretty major sweet tooth, lol! </p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-52253488044825840732014-10-22T10:42:00.001-04:002014-10-22T10:42:22.925-04:00A Picture Journal of Our Camping Trip to Hardy Lake State Park<p>Last week was fall break, and we spent it camping with friends at Hardy Lake State Park.  It was absolutely beautiful!   </p> <p>The guys hung out fishing on our friends’ pontoon boat and giving their electronics a break.  Um… <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dKuynCggKWA/VEfCCA5TlbI/AAAAAAAAFKU/ZBPb91Tw7T0/s1600-h/B%252520and%252520C%252520on%252520boat%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="B and C on boat" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="B and C on boat" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nwzYjDVf0jE/VEfCC4JDytI/AAAAAAAAFKc/PUx5IKFjAwo/B%252520and%252520C%252520on%252520boat_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="425" height="323" /></a>Well, they fished, at least.  :)  My little guy caught the most.  Might be because he wasn’t texting every other minute.  ;)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-k5ymxuEiPng/VEfCDXr-cUI/AAAAAAAAFKk/twh72qEMjQU/s1600-h/A%252520and%252520fish%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="A and fish" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="A and fish" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EWxoDAE4w9s/VEfCEYfI9YI/AAAAAAAAFKs/2p3UeFi3C84/A%252520and%252520fish_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="413" height="713" /></a> </p> <p>These were out campsites.  Our little Jayco Pop up is the one on the right.  The trees were just beautiful!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dGHXjbqf1ko/VEfCE8oRoHI/AAAAAAAAFK0/TGJ_nVBpabw/s1600-h/two%252520campsites%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="two campsites" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="two campsites" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-buQaukGgVfg/VEfCFlrE7YI/AAAAAAAAFK8/X3gfTbG0P-s/two%252520campsites_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="425" height="559" /></a> </p> <p>Directly behind our camper there was a short path that lead down to the lake where we could tie the boat. I took this after the guys pushed off for one of their fishing trips.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lag7fhocVVo/VEfCGUK7F2I/AAAAAAAAFLE/rNZW1KlrJL0/s1600-h/Pontoon%252520boat%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Pontoon boat" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Pontoon boat" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n-VCZhHmw0I/VEfCGyWO4VI/AAAAAAAAFLM/5ZZ8z2oDJMs/Pontoon%252520boat_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="540" /></a></p> <p>My oldest son and a friend slept on the boat one night.  It was all good until about 4 in the morning when a cold front brought wind and rain sending them back to the campers.    </p> <p>I took this on a walk between the lake and our camp site.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rHiEPaQS2Us/VEfCHm81ECI/AAAAAAAAFLU/RaH9CvQEWCo/s1600-h/hike%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="hike" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="hike" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JsdApPmtVWg/VEfCIh3x5QI/AAAAAAAAFLc/bGTR5pLqnx8/hike_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="425" height="559" /></a> </p> <p>Greta, as usual, enjoyed being a part of everything.  She loves camping as much as we do!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TPjevyb355M/VEfCJZlvavI/AAAAAAAAFLk/Zda8Dv2gNsM/s1600-h/B%252520and%252520Greta%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="B and Greta" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="B and Greta" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SYCZUe3EJ_c/VEfCKIrSnjI/AAAAAAAAFLs/RK8H1NRHoX8/B%252520and%252520Greta_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="419" height="551" /></a> </p> <p>There were several UNO games…</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PW5dltAU4QU/VEfCLjOk42I/AAAAAAAAFL0/GpBOZqJBtBE/s1600-h/uno%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="uno" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="uno" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r4oilrrRYoQ/VEfCMX5UtRI/AAAAAAAAFL8/7Z8eUNze1Jo/uno_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="415" height="459" /></a> </p> <p>as well as our annual pumpkin carvings.  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5gpr1w-J9ro/VEfCM37O6xI/AAAAAAAAFME/hAPUfROkEu4/s1600-h/pumpkins%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="pumpkins" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="pumpkins" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QkD-7prfMAQ/VEfCNnlIdDI/AAAAAAAAFMM/k25eTLLzEGM/pumpkins_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="335" /></a> </p> <p>We took our bikes and enjoyed riding around the park.  We also used them to ride to the comfort station, which was a good ways away.</p> <p>The only bathroom close to us was a vault/pit style restroom.  NOT something I wanted to brave in the middle of the night.  Once in the daylight confirmed that.  I was not about to slice through those cobwebs in the middle of the night.  Nope. NOT HAPPENING. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JZbufhzxqw0/VEfCORnwzhI/AAAAAAAAFMU/EmzfDgM9fFg/s1600-h/site%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="site" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="site" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YCiQeY2XH1M/VEfCPby5xiI/AAAAAAAAFMc/KvREk7STWS0/site_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="419" height="552" /></a>But I had looked at the campground map before we left and knew we were staying in a more remote area.  So, I bought a pop up hunting blind from Rural King to take along. </p> <p>In spite of the boys’ objections that the blind was <em>too cool</em> to pee in, I plunked my little porta-pot inside, strung some lights,and hung a roll of toilet paper.  I must say, it made a happy little potty hut!  I think it was much nicer than those stand alone outdoor shower shelters I saw on line.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ICgvvh-nCGk/VEfCQHu73BI/AAAAAAAAFMk/AOI7fyES-AQ/s1600-h/potty%252520space%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="potty space" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="potty space" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yOCipAQAKlM/VEfCRbeZ0TI/AAAAAAAAFMs/m10Nixd3f3M/potty%252520space_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="396" height="528" /></a></p> <p>I have NO idea why I didn’t do this LOOOONG ago.  Seriously.  It stayed nice and dry inside and as an added bonus, I could change in it when the boys beat me to the camper.  Greta even napped there from time to time.  It was worth every penny. </p> <p>Here’s a picture of my boys chill’in in the camper. I applied my phone’s water color effect just for fun.  :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JZbufhzxqw0/VEfCORnwzhI/AAAAAAAAFMU/EmzfDgM9fFg/s1600-h/site%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="water color chilling inside" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="water color chilling inside" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FsTPg4HJWIs/VEfCSkBUj-I/AAAAAAAAFM0/gAPfaecSirs/water%252520color%252520chilling%252520inside%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="399" height="525" /> </a></p> <p>One day, my hubby and I made some crock pot apple crisp.  It was SOOOO good!  And easy, too!  Tomorrow, I’ll share the recipe, so be sure to stop back!</p> <p>It was a fun time, for sure!  </p> <p>What have you been doing to enjoy your fall?</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-42286196171042677712014-10-14T17:48:00.001-04:002014-10-14T17:50:27.169-04:00What My Middle Son Did to Make Me Cry<p>Mom made it home safe and sound last week.  Which is good!  She was getting homesick.  But it’s also bad.  I miss her!  It was really nice having another female in the house. </p> <p>I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked down the hall ready to laugh with her about something only to stop short at the sight of her empty chair or room.  This was taken right before she left.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5uB7OUVVcvg/VD2aL1-gC-I/AAAAAAAAFJY/0K51qRmDHTI/s1600-h/one%252520more%252520pic%2525203%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="one more pic 3" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="one more pic 3" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZInOKVtglsM/VD2aNMGQXpI/AAAAAAAAFJg/otcJ46ka7QQ/one%252520more%252520pic%2525203_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="382" height="405" /></a> </p> <p>That said, I was already feeling a tiny bit emotional when I heard arguing and slamming-of-doors at the other end of the house.  </p> <p>Middle Man was determined to boot his little brother out of his space into Grandmom’s newly emptied bedroom.  And Little Guy was making it perfectly clear that he did NOT want to go.  </p> <p>There were tears.</p> <p>There was drama.</p> <p>And there was no reasoning with either son.</p> <p>Little Guy went and hid himself in the sunroom.  </p> <p>Middle Man looked at me, dropped his shoulders, and sighed.    </p> <p>That’s when my up-to-now-unreasonable middle son did something that made me super proud of him.  He told me he was going to work non-stop till he had made his little brother’s new space SO cool that he, himself, would be jealous.</p> <p>And he did.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XY_Q3mQIOdI/VD2aODpvViI/AAAAAAAAFJo/YuM-p5FJJXM/s1600-h/BBB%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="BBB" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="BBB" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GGJZbGrwEbE/VD2aPPDDRXI/AAAAAAAAFJw/q8GpoGbn__Y/BBB_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="437" height="437" /></a> </p> <p>He hung soccer jerseys, Chelsea flags, and Colts gear.   He hung posters of Lamborghinis, and tucked well-loved stuffed animals around the room.  He put water guns in the shower,  a beach ball on the bookshelf, and a battle ax by the toilet.  He created a drawing nook and hung Christmas lights.  He even thought to download Little Guy’s favorite music to his tablet and set it to play.  And as a final touch, he built a tunnel-fort under the table.  </p> <p>It was a little boy’s dream room.</p> <p>I wish you could have seen my little guy’s face when we finally got him to come and see.  Because it was priceless.  </p> <p>And it brought tears to my eyes.  :)  </p> <p>He absolutely loved it!!!</p> <p>And later, all by himself, my Little Guy did his big brother’s chores.</p> <p>Those, friends, are the kind of things that Mamas tuck away to smile over when no one is looking.</p> <p>So, where did I find my Little Guy this morning? <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tiUMpJP51pc/VD2aPvyLGQI/AAAAAAAAFJ4/RNqv-rpQQtU/s1600-h/not%252520enemies%252520after%252520all%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="not enemies after all" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="not enemies after all" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lSqlIeetKMI/VD2aQycY5_I/AAAAAAAAFKA/ht1k9_Hd_bI/not%252520enemies%252520after%252520all_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="305" height="305" /></a> In Big Brother’s room, of course.  </p> <p>It made me smile.  They’ve been hanging out in each other’s rooms most of the day.</p> <p>My little guy has a pretty awesome big brother!  </p> <p>However, I’m not allowed to post this without clarifying that Little Guy still thinks his big brother is annoying.  </p> <p>Of course he does.  </p> <p>And I’m sure the feeling is mutual.  </p> <p>I love my guys. ;)</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-78981269754710858282014-10-03T02:21:00.000-04:002014-10-03T02:21:13.709-04:00Please Allow Me To Ramble On For An Entire Post and Share Random Highlights Of Our Summer As I Fall Woefully Short Of Organizing Any Thoughts…<p>I hate that it’s been so long since I’ve posted here.  Summer went and flew away before I could lasso it and slow it down.  :)</p> <p>In June, we took a trip to Pennsylvania and Maryland to see family.  First, we visited with my husband’s family in Chestertown Maryland.  Then we headed up to my Mom’s house in Pennsylvania, where we cut down her field of bamboo.  (It was not fun work. But it really needed to be cleared.)  </p> <p>This year, we took our pop-up so our moms didn’t have to worry about where to put us all.  It gave us a place to crash, and also tickled my little guy who wanted to go camping in the worst way!  </p> <p>The day after we cut down the bamboo, the guys went to Hershey Park with my husband and a family friend.  They had a blast experiencing the park I grew up loving.  </p> <p>Mom and I stayed at her place, and I used the time to paint some of the trim on Mom’s front porch. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KnW1IyNvP9k/VCTxQpgDedI/AAAAAAAAFJA/mallN80M_iI/s1600-h/image3.png"><img title="image" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hQlS4USKvcw/VCTxSYGAHMI/AAAAAAAAFJI/x7ne_1CKnIw/image_thumb1.png?imgmax=800" width="423" height="423" /></a></p> <p>When it was time to head back to Indiana, we brought Mom home with us. That’s one of the reason’s I’ve let blogging go for so long.  I hate spending time on the computer when I can be visiting and doing things with her and the boys.  </p> <p>Speaking of the boys, they went to soccer camp the very next day after we got back.  It was the first time we went to the Ben Elo Soccer camp, and they really had a great time.  </p> <p>After that, high school soccer practices began, along with  weight training.  And the summer fell into a busy routine of mowing, practices, gardening and canning.</p> <p>Canning.  This summer, I made two kinds of relish, lots of ketchup, and tons of salsa.  I also froze enough zucchini to have zucchini bread all winter long.  It feels great to have all that stored away!</p> <p>School has been in session here for almost two months.  I now have a junior, a sophomore and a 4th grader.  </p> <p>The two older boys play soccer for the High School, and my youngest still plays for his travel league.  As always, the schedule is crazy and it’s hard to keep up.  But it’s a fun kind of crazy.  I love watching my boys play!</p> <p>Last week, my two older boys’ team played an incredible game against their biggest rival.  It was so intense, I’m pretty sure a few of the parents (besides me) lost their voices, lol!  </p> <p>The game ended in a 1-1 tie, and because a conference game cannot end in a tie, it went into overtime. Still tied at the end of overtime, it went to PKs.  (If you are not familiar with soccer, both teams pick five players to shoot one on one against the goalie and the team with the most goals at the end wins.)  </p> <p>It was a long and hard fought game.  But we finally won in PKs!  What a great night of soccer!  And the icing on the cake?  My middle son was one of the players who scored a PK in the end! </p> <p>Like I said, I love watching my boys play.  :)</p> <p>A photographer from the local paper tweeted this picture taken during the game…</p> <p><a href="https://twitter.com/PhotosbyMD/status/510265788897705984"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BxTUBy1IIAAblM2.jpg:large" width="423" height="388" /></a></p> <p>Number 13 is my oldest son.  I feel bad for the player who caught his teammate’s high kick with his chin.  However, I’m incredibly glad my son’s face missed the action! (And glad, too, that I didn’t see it happen!!  Who knows what I might have shouted!  Ha!)  The other player in white is my middle son.  My oldest told me he was cleaning up the mess my middle son left by not sticking to the man he was supposed to be covering, lol! </p> <p>They each played great games and I enjoy listening to them laugh and banter back and forth.  </p> <p>Where is my mom in all this soccer, you ask?  She has been coming along to some of the games when it isn’t too hot or cold, and when there isn’t too much walking involved.  She enjoys watching, too.  But she is ready to go home to Pennsylvania.  Once I get my little guys’ soccer schedule added into my master calendar, I hope to be able to squeeze in a trip east with Mom.  </p> <p>Anyone want to be my driving buddy?  :)</p> <p>I’ve missed this little space and the chance it gives me to catch up with my “virtual” friends.  So hopefully, with the boys back at school, I can carve out a regular time to catch up with you all!  </p> <p>What kept you busy this summer??</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-87415039901137723002014-02-18T15:18:00.001-05:002014-02-18T15:18:58.120-05:00The Hard Thing About What Our Schools Are Doing To Make Up All The Extra Snow Days<p>Thanks to Friday’s 7 inches, 2014 is now the snowiest winter on record in Indiana.  And thanks to the polar vortex, it ranks 11th as being the coldest winter in history.  </p> <p>Our school district has piled up eight snow-days, thirteen two-hour-delays, and one early dismissal.</p> <p>I’ve appreciated every call (well, at least the <em>first</em> two), and so have my kids.  We welcomed the extra sleep, if not the overabundance of family bonding, and I’ve appreciated that they put safety first.  </p> <p>Like many officials, our school board has had to figure out how to make up the time.   </p> <p>Beginning tomorrow and continuing through March, they have decided to add an hour to the end of each school day. </p> <p>My teens will get home at 3:45 and my third grader at 4:50.</p> <p>Although this isn’t my first choice for how to make up the time, I’ll do my best to support the school board and their difficult decision.  </p> <p>I wonder, though, if any of them remember having small school-age children.  I wonder if they realize how hard they are about to make the lives of those poor souls who teach Kindergarten through 4th grade. </p> <p>Can you imagine trying to escort an entire class of cherubs through the bewitching hour?   </p> <p>Every mom knows exactly what I’m talking about.  </p> <p>There is a tiny little clock built into each and every child that springs a sprocket at 4:00 without fail.  It’s so predictable it’s like magic.  Not the good kind of magic.  That’s why moms call it the bewitching hour.     </p> <p>My youngest still melts down.  Do I blame him?  No.  By four o’clock, he’s tired.  He’s hungry.  He has to pee—badly—because he’s held it all day.  He hates the bus.  He hates the sun.  He hates his brothers.  He hates the car. He hates his homework.  He hates his classmates.  And he even hates <em>me</em>.  </p> <p>Although the attitude will pass with a little TLC, it goes without saying that his ability to think rationally closes up shop at four.   </p> <p>I’ve learned the hard way with my boys not to make eye contact or engage in unnecessary conversation when they get off the bus until they have hit the bathroom, had a snack, and kicked a ball.  In that order.</p> <p>I was encouraged to see a note yesterday which said all elementary aged students would be given a snack during that last hour.  Thank the Lord someone must have talked to a MOM. </p> <p>Still, pray for those poor teachers and bus drivers.  They’re going to need extra grace to get through the extended days of the next few weeks.  </p> <p>On the other hand, for the first time in 16 and 1/2 years, I will be able to prepare dinner in blessed silence.  BLESSED SILENCE.</p> <p>No interruptions.  No juggling homework, breaking up wrestling matches and conducting frantic searches for soccer gear while dinner sets off the smoke alarm.</p> <p>I wonder what that will be like?  ;)  </p> <p>What do you think of the idea of extending the school day to make up snow days?  How are schools in your area handling the missed time?</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-62938065333661358722014-02-14T10:21:00.001-05:002014-02-14T10:21:22.044-05:00Hope Your Valentines Day is OUTTA THIS WORLD!<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sZrFqK_aObI/Uv40Yz61p4I/AAAAAAAAFIA/uoZqkyfIagw/s1600-h/valentines%252520box%252520collage%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="valentines box collage" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="valentines box collage" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_abh39iKgVQ/Uv40af4vEfI/AAAAAAAAFII/Kn7vasAcL9w/valentines%252520box%252520collage_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="421" height="675" /></a> </p> <p>This was my third graders entry in the creative Valentines box contest.  :)  The lights alone have to win him something, right?  Right??</p> <p>For his flying saucer, he used packing foam, low temp hot glue, permanent markers and two short strands of battery operated LED lights strategically taped in place.  :)</p> <p>He had so much fun working on this project!  </p> <p>This afternoon, I’ll be helping out with his class Valentines party and I can’t wait to see what the moms in charge have dreamed up to do with the kids.  </p> <p>Last year we had relay races with candy sweethearts on spoons, aiming/tossing games with candy sweethearts and  heart-shaped picture frames decorated with, you guessed it, candy sweethearts!  The food police would be horrified, I’m sure, Lol!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--thOoFnQol4/Uv40bNN4CcI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/IiDmiIcZ3co/s1600-h/sweet%252520hearts%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="sweet hearts" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="sweet hearts" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-udsrq9o7JNI/Uv40cJGph1I/AAAAAAAAFIY/SQAaN5whk4k/sweet%252520hearts_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="390" height="331" /></a> </p> <p>Long live candy sweethearts!  ;) </p> <p>Have a wonderful day with your family!  </p> <blockquote> <p><font color="#408080"><strong><em>Long ago the Lord said to Israel: <br />“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. <br />With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself.</em></strong></font></p> <h5><font color="#408080"><em>Jeremiah 31:3</em></font></h5> <p><font color="#408080"><strong><em>New Living Translation (NLT)</em></strong></font></p></blockquote> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591469651266661841.post-51919227512320748542014-02-13T10:44:00.001-05:002014-02-13T10:44:24.867-05:00Snowbuddies!<p>I sent my youngest out to gather eggs yesterday and noticed an hour later that he hadn’t come back.   It was a balmy 12 degrees (a virtual heat wave for us).  So I wasn’t too worried about the cold—just more curious about what he was doing.  </p> <p>I found my boy sticking out of a snow mound left by the snow plow.</p> <p><img alt="" src="https://scontent-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/t1/1939412_10202275079552096_937397173_n.jpg" width="403" height="660" /></p> <p>And he wasn’t alone, lol!  Is there anything more fun than building a snow fort with a friend?</p> <p>When I was his age, my friends and I would build fabulous forts on opposite sides of our sidewalk.  There would be lookout windows, hideaways, and even shelves stocked with snowballs!  I wasn’t much of a snowball thrower, but I LOVED making the forts!  It was always fun to play out there with my brother and neighbors.  Well, until the ice balls started flying!  Lol!</p> <p>I’m glad my little guy had someone to build with!  :)  They cracked me up as they both tried to fit into the hole.  </p> <p>Gotta love my snow buddies!</p> Raise Them Uphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15131235222116977410noreply@blogger.com2