Extreme Adventures in Motherhood (and life and knitting and photography and trying to keep a house with 3 boys from smelling like a locker room!)

Dip, Splash.

Dip, Splash.

Fortunately, the sounds were from the tub. And, Noah was in the tub, and I was in the bathroom, supervising.. well- and knitting. So far, so good.

“Noah? What are you doing? Keep the water in the tub” I asked– or actually- TOLD.

“The water’s too high, I BAILING” was Noah’s response.

I jumped up- to find the water he’d “BAILED” before it dripped thru the floor- then the ceiling… (kids bath is upstairs)… There (astonishingly) was no water on the floor.

“Noah, where’s the water?” Now, more curious than anything… (the panic was subsiding…. )

“In the tub. I bailed it to the back” Noah pointed to the back of the tub. Then, started bailing again. From the front of the tub to the back… over and over….. the water level which was “too high” never changed.

I can relate.

There have been lots of times— where I recognize a “problem” something in my life where “the water is too high”…. so I start to dip and bail, like crazy.

Unfortunately, like Noah, I’m bailing to the back of the tub.

I feel fat- which depresses me- so I eat cookies. (Dip, Splash!….Bailing to the back of the tub)

I feel overwhelmed by the work I have to do..so I avoid it… (Dip, SPLASH!)

I miss my husband desperately- so I bite his head off when he comes in the door late… (DIP, SPLASH!)

I want my kids to be responsible… so I nag them… (Dip, Splash.)

I am afraid I may not be able to learn a new skill, so I avoid starting a new project, so I NEVER try to learn it- assuring that I can’t, (DIP, SPLASH.)

Sometimes, I’m amazed at how “stupid” I can be….. wasting so much time… bailing to the back of the tub. Wasting time, bailing when I could have been making the situation better….

Maybe, I’m not the first.

Roman’s 7
14We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
21So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!

Dear Lord- help me not waste time- energy and life, bailing to the back of the tub. Please help me to see what I need to do differently, and equip me to do it. I pray for wisdom, Lord- and courage to change. I love you Lord- and thank you for rescuing me— from ME! amen.

WOW! My Fiber Godmother reveal pkg arrived! http://community.livejournal.com/fibergodmother/

YAY!

(Unfortunately- Blogger is goofing with my pics- so you can go to my MSN SPace- to see them for now-same posting different site- NP;)

http://spaces.msn.com/nottinbutknittin/

http://mermaid2003.livejournal.com/ Was my SPOILER… which she did nicely— thnx so much!

You can see the pics below- Hand dyed wool- great colors!

A Circular needle holder- in muslin- (thnx—- my circ needles needed organizing!)

CHOCOLATE…. ummm I must have mice or something… (half gone— ooops must have been me!)
Sweet angel pin! Very cute…

CHOCOLATE candles… thats calorie free chocolate- YUM!

And some GREAT caffe latte caramels…. taste like great coffee! Cute reveal card as well! Thnx again! You made this fun!

My kids are all sick, yeah THATS fun… poor guys are slinging snot everywhere they go—

STOCK TIP: But KLEENEX. () They’ll live- they’re medicated.

Next up- knitting update-

Been busy knittin-

Unbelievably- I cast on KIRI- http://alltangledup.com/ yes- I’m WAY late coming to this one— but really had a struggle with doubting my ability to knit this one… downloaded pattern- printed- (like 4 times) read- re-read—- searched web for input—-

Saturday morning- in a moment of impulse- I just went a head and cast it on.

DUH. Sometimes- ya just gotta stop THINKING and start DOING….

I’m repeat 6 of 12 of chart 2. I really had a hard time understanding the construction. Other shawls I’ve made- had a point up- construction.. this one casts on a small number— but is still from the top (shoulders) down…. I kept looking at it upside down- thinking I was knitting from the point… and it didn’t have the scalloped edges— so I thought I was going to be ripping back…..

Then I realized i had it wrong. But- only “Perceptually”— my knitting was fine- my perception was off.

(that could be the theme of my life!) anyways- I should have her finished in a few days—

I used Addi Natura’s in US #8’s nice points- though the joins stick a bit….
I ordered this 100% Cashmere from Colormart http://stores.ebay.com/ColourMartUK

It’s 4 ply- which is somewhere between lace and fingering…

It’s a great deal- as it’s oiled and on a cone- so- for like the cost of one skein of cashmere- I got an entire cone- which is like 150 grams. A great deal.

I’ve not enjoyed the process knitting with this yarn- as much as other cashmere- I’ve knit with- Colour Mart- recommends washing after knitting- I’ll probably wash and wind the rest after this is completed- so it has a nicer “hand” to it during knitting- However- I’m sure it’ll bloom nicely when washed.

I’m also working on my Knit picks socks— one down- second one started.

I made up my pkg for my reveal to my Fiber god-daughter… can’t wait to see if she likes it— I found some GREAT goodies- for her.

Back to nursing the sick.

Dear Lord- please heal my little guy- and big guys- and please bless my spoiler- as she’s blessed me— I hope my spoilee- will also be blessed as well!

I love you lord- amen.

Two broken glass tables…. and learning to “Shine” The difference between “Broken, and Dirty Leaders”

Useless. Frustrating. Irritating. And yes- somewhat stupid. I refer to: Glass topped patio tables.

I live in Michigan. We have beautiful seasons here- and some pretty fierce storms. About 6 years ago– we built a nice little house- We added a “brick-paver patio” to the back yard. In a “bout” of decorating- we bought a pretty glass topped table and matching umbrella- Can you guess what happened?

Over it went.

“Must be a fluke” So, out we went a few months later- to replace it. Over it went, again in the wind.

See what I mean? Stupid. It should not have take two trips to Home Depot for me to figure that one out. It did. It also required some creative clean-up technique— as broken bits of glass- are not good for feet- dog- child or otherwise…. lets just say- I used the SHOP VAC on the grass. I thought I had it all.

Last night, around 2:45 am..I let our “Bad Dog Sami” out into the yard… and sparkling in the grass- I saw glass. Broken, table top glass. STILL. Shining in the yard.

This morning- It’s still there- but honestly- it’s harder to see- why? Because- last night I had the patio door open…. today- I didn’t. Sami- was sleeping. (Of course- it was DAYTIME!- Told you- Bad Dog Sami!)

Wanna know something gross? My patio door is seldom clean. Between “Bad Dog Sami” Nose prints- and Noah’s “Mystery Goo” (as dubbed by my teens) the glass patio doors seldom sparkle. Actually- their hard to see thru at all. (Well- the bottom third is- anyway)

There is a huge difference between Broken Glass, and Dirty Glass. One somehow- shimmers and catches even MORE light, the other? Nothing. NO shine. No reflection. Just “Mystery Goo”.

This year- the MOPS International Theme is taken from Phillipians 2- a favorite passage of scripture for me. But- to be honest- one thats a little problematic. Why? Cause I feel more ” broken n dirty” than “Shining like stars!”

See- I’m not perfect. I know- I hear your shocked gasps…….(WAY heavy sarcasm there…) Actually- I’m a sinner. Just scroll thru my blog— you’ll see all KINDS of sin—- anger- (um the sinful kind– not the righteous kind) prejudice, laziness, greed…… blah blah- and all kinds of “Mystery Goo” I haven’t shared with you here). Yet- clearly- throughout scripture- believers- and followers of Christ are called, to be a “City on a hill” to shine hope—– well- read here- and see:

Philippians 2
Imitating Christ’s Humility

1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6Who, being in very nature[a] God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7but made himself nothing, taking the very nature[b] of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! 9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

12Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.
14Do everything without complaining or arguing, 15so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe 16as you hold out[c] the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. 17But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. 18So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

See my problem? I’m No “SHINING STAR”… besides- that all sounds a little prideful… and uppity.. don’t you think? Like- maybe - if I believe this— then, I must think I’m “ABOVE” the “DEPRAVED WORLD”… right? WRONG.

What on earth does that have to do with broken tables? Dirty windows? Leaders?

See- it’s not about ME. If I read these words in a cursory way— it looks like it’s about ME… but it’s not.

It’s about God- who HE is, what HE has done— More often- what He IS DOING, in my life, to SHINE thru. Honestly- that’s usually done by being honest about struggles- and allowing God to change my heart and mind- thru His word and His people. Then sharing those things- as encouragement to others— (”With the comfort you’ve been given”) Truthfully- The comfort I’ve been given- is God’s presense in my life.

There is even a reason for my broken-ness-

2 Corinthinians 4—-says this:

5For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.

The difference between Broken and Dirty— is this: When we are broken- before God in regards to our sin- He shines thru- us. “We have these treasures in jars of clay to show that this all surpassing power is from God and not from us” If we WERE perfect—- in our own- then it WOULD be about us…

Look at what we do as a culture—- we look for “Perfect people” to emulate, to copy and to ogle over.. all the while waiting for them to fall so we can see their “come-uppenance”… (Think Marth Stewart) From fashion to literature- to pop culture- “it’s all about________” It’s just part of the fallen nature of Man. (and Woman!)

However- when we stop pretending to be perfect- and come to grips with our imperfection- something amazing happens. In our brokeness- God shines thru. He changes us- and shines thru us. He has a plan for our imperfection.

Roman’s 3:21-25 makes it clear:

21But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 23for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement,[i] through faith in his blood.

“Shine like stars in the universe”? Well- yes- but not because I think “I’m all that”… not even close! And I don’t HAVE to be either. (good thing) More like because I know I’m NOT- but God is- and I let Him shine out thru my cracks.

Hopefully- years from now- someone will “open a patio door on the back yard of my life”– and find broken bits of glass—- imperfect shards- reflecting God- in the sun. Well- unless their letting their Bad Dog out……then it would be in the moonlight!

Dear Lord- We both know I’m a mess, I don’t always “GET” why you WANT to shine thru me- (or any other imperfect person!) but- I trust that you do— because you said so. I love you Lord- and thank you for helping me understand, when I’m challenged by your words . Lord- at least in my brokenness, let me “shine”, amen

Caution: Cuteness and Knitting Content Ahead!
If you’re looking for the MOPS article—please scroll down one entry;)

Knit-News-

Pics below show:

Lucy Neatby (well- roughly using the pattern ;) Sock in Knitpicks “Star Gazer Lily”( Pinks and a bit of yellow)
( http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/yarn_display_closeup.asp?itemID=23468&brandName=Knit%20Picks%20Yarns&lineName=Sock%20Garden&itemName=Star%20Gazer%20Lily )
On #2 US Bryspun DPNS

In the background- you can see a “created pattern” k2p2 rib sock- in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Baby- In a pretty purple—– their BOTH Finished! YAY! Used my Lantern Moon DPNs in US #3 for these- took a few days- very quick. Brainless Knitting… I like it.

You can also see an updated Pic Of “Tempting Sweater” from : Knitty.com -http://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter04/PATTtempting.html It’s finished- the wider Hanah Silk Ribbon arrived- and really DOES make it work— also- it looks better on me with an off the shoulder look. So, I recant my previous disappointment in this project- am now happy with it. Will wear with a black straight skirt- and maybe black boots- ;)

Finally- Knitting wise- You can see the KSH “Birch for Booty-full” It is (again) my own design, using the Bernadins Sampler “Perky Leaves” Pattern from Mary Schiffman’s Lacy Knitting” which, is basically the classic “Fern Leaf” lace pattern. I’m using Lantern Moon US #8’s to mimic the stitch size of Rowan’s beautiful “Birch” Pattern—- and the KSH is in “Splendour”—a pretty deep fuschia. Again- this is a stole- so lengthwise- rectangular- not triangular- just my preferance.

There is also a sweet “cuteness eye-candy” pic of my “Sleeping Angels” You’d never guess how much of a mess these two can make- from this pic.. would you?

Shhhhhhh maybe they’ll let me knit……..

Have you ever had the thought… “I’ll never be one of THOSE_____people?” I have to admit, I have. On more than one occasion. There can be a lot of pride in that statement. “ONE of those”…….It puts ME— and my preferences OVER someone elses. Sometimes, I’ve made the statement about quasi-silly things—- like todays- picture…… Ummmmm YES- that’s my Spinning Wheel.

Yes, my Spinning (as in Sleeping Beauty, Rumplestiltskin, Little House on The Prairie…) type spinning wheel. I’m still a little shocked. I guess- now that I’m pretty comfortable with knitting- I just wanted to “step it up”… take it to the next level… experience a new challenge. Yes- spin my own yarn.

If you had suggested it may be possible- a year ago- that I’d be trying to spin— I’d have LAUGHED in your face. Probably, not very nicely. And, I certanly would have thrown in a sarcastic comment or two- about my “high-heels ” not being conducive to peddaling a spinning wheel…. or something to that effect. Yet- at the moment a spinning wheel sits in my dining room. And- yes, It’s mine. ;)

I wish I could say this is my first little “come-uppence” when it comes to “Pride and Prejudice”… but- it’s not. I remember thinking— and TALKING about how I’d NEVER “Homeschool” my kids— cause you know—– “those women” wear NO MAKE-UP, (:0) don’t cut their hair- wear tennis shoes with long skirts…and only speak “King James”…. then we decided our kids NEEDED to be homeschooled………. (so we did, for 3 years-!!!)

Lets just say— Not EVERYONE who homeschools meets my prejudiced “criteria”… though- I did meet some women I really came to areally appreciate- who DID! (well- and some kooks- but NOT as many as I thought!)

I can also remember- being absolutely convinced- that anyone who sent their child to public school- was NUTS, and neglectful of both their education, and their safety…..until- we realized that there were opportunities that my child would best have access to- in public high school!

Then, there is the whole…… “what kind of church do you go to ” issue…… as a young Christian, if you didn’t go to a church like MINE…(contemporary worship music- “teaching” style messages) I was pretty convinced you were missing out- and definitely in the wrong. A member of our church staff addressed the question of “Why are there so many Kinds of churches..” on his blog recently-( http://www.partofthestory.com/) and the question- has challenged- and caused me to think- ever since.

Until, I became involved in MOPS International…. I thought your music, your teaching- your liturgical “style” had to be like mine- in order for you to be ” a Christian”… otherwise, you were relegated to the “one of THOSE______” categories. I was pretty full- of “Pride (in my way) and Prejudice- (against yours)”.

I’m really working hard- to maintain the “Big Picture” when it comes to Christianity. Please don’t misunderstand, I believe there are “negotiables” and “non-negotiables”. Jesus- gets to determine what those are- not me. He focuses on HIM being the only way to salvation. So, I try to do the same. I think we spend too much time- in our own “Pride and Prejudices” when it comes to the “negotiables”….. like worship music, syle of preaching/teaching, traditions, liturgical style….resources for and of ministry— etc. (PUHLEEZE!)

I guess I see it this way: There is only ONE way to get to heaven- that’s through Jesus.( based on His statement of this truth - not mine- see John 14- http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=50&chapter=14&version=31 )

Then, I see a lot of flexibility- when it comes to our unique EXPRESSION of that faith. It’s my opinion, that there are many different expressions of faith- that are equal in their value- to their unique congregations. I also believe- that this isn’t an accident. See- My home church, meets my unique needs- and (I like to think) that I fill a unique “need” in that local body…. not just in spite of my unique qualities, but- because of them. Like pieces- of a puzzle- It’s a good fit- for both.

But- honestly- do I think it would be for EVERYONE? Nope. Nor, do I think It has to be. I’m probably sensitive to this because I have family members who I know- probably would be distracted,(by “Youthful sounding music” or uncomfortable in a less that traditional (in STYLE) church. Yet- they have a need- to find God- and know the truth about Him, in a place where they feel a good “fit”. I also find a precedence in scripture- Jesus spoke differently- to different people- based on who they were- to fishermen- he used “fishing” analogies to clarify the truth, to shepherds- he spoke of sheep.

Did his message change? Nope. Did His method? Yep.

There is a lot of talk in Christian circles- especially about approaches to “Doing Church”- some of which is helpful- some I think is just divisive. I think I draw the determining line here: When we think (about the negotiables) that it’s “Our Way” or else- you’re one of “Those people….”… Proud- or Prejudiced. I think it’s divisive. Instead- I desire to appreciate the uniqueness in Christianity, as other “strokes- for other folks”…

Truth is- I think God gets “the Big Picture”…. we each (each-type of Christ centered- church) have a passion (and a calling) for a certain “part” of God’s puzzle, but throughout the whole- of Christianity- God ministers to the “Big Picture”—- one that takes into account- all the different people- that will need to be “fitted” into the puzzle- meeting them where they are- and creating a beautiful, and complete, mosaic of Faith.

There are 80+ year old people, who need Jesus- (and - honestly aren’t part of the post-modern culture!) and they may not be open to the “rock n roll” church…. but, are their souls less important to God? Nope. Not one bit. There needs (desperately) to be a place for them- in Christianity. And- it’s true- my teens would have a hard time- worshipping to music they found distracting- or distasteful. Are they less important? NOPE.

Baby Boomers- Gen Xers- whatever else we find as a label— we live in a world that is INTERGENERATIONAL. Cross- Cultural. Unique. It’s doubtful any ONE TYPE of church will be able to accommodate the differences in the “puzzle pieces”…. yet- together- we can.

As a leader- in MOPS- I have been amazed at the different ways that God ministers- yet- the message is still the same. Christ- Christ Crucified, Christ resurrected, Our sin covered in Christ’s sinless perfection, and sacrifice. Christ glorified in our lives.

When I see that spinning wheel in my living room, ( or the pile of old homeschool books in my basement- or the newsletter from my Son’s public High school- or an ad from a “DIFFERENT” CHRIST centered church…..) I hope it reminds me of those things—-Of my own ” Pride and Prejudices”…. and I hope it challenges me to know, and stand-up for the “non-negotiables”…. and not waste time and effort on “The THOSE PEOPLE” statements- whether they are spoken, or just stored in my heart…..

‘Cause- let’s face it—- ya just never know- when your needs, or your desires may change— and turn YOU into a “homeschooling, knitting, spinning , rock concert attending mother of Teens and Preschoolers”—– you know ;) …. “One of THOSE”! Or- you may be seen as one- just as you are. Right now, by someone else. (Maybe ME! ;) )

My ipod holds equal parts “Sesame Street Sing along”, “David Crowder”and “Third Day.” With a bit of “U2″, “Casting Crowns”, “Mercy Me” and “Thomas The Tank Engine.” I think there is also a bit of “Queen” and probably “CrazyTrain” by Ozzy Osbourne. If you think my “Playlist” sounds a like a psycho - combo, you should try balancing my life. ;)

I have the interesting task- of mothering 2 teens- AND a Preschooler, AND being A human with likes, dislikes- and needs, of my own. Queen and Ozzy Osbourne are NOT on my Ipod- for ME! Nor is “Sesame Street” or Thomas the Tank Engine”!

Having three sons- of varied ages- sometimes, (usually) and a spouse who frequently travels- for work….sometimes feels like living in a circus. Like, I’m spinning plates of different sizes- at different speeds- to different music. It makes me thankful for my tendancy towards ADD. Let’s just say- that Potty training one child- while the another takes DRIVER’S TRAINING… is sometimes confusing- sometimes chaotic- and, NEVER boring.

It also poses some interesting challenges- and unique rewards. Last night was a good example of both- We went to a concert- for “Third Day” along with “David Crowder” some of my all time favorite music. My youngest- Noah- loves music- Mike, my oldest- LIKES music- my middle one loves it-and well- I absolutely adore- worship music… and corporate worship experiences.

So, I THOUGHT the concert was a great win all the way around- idea. Daddy was out of town… so I envisioned- a special Mom- n Guys Night- A chance for all of us to enjoy something TOGETHER.

Let’s just say- not quite. At dinner- My middle son- felt sick- So we dropped him at home- thats $38. for a ticket- I HOPE someone else got to enjoy….then we made it to the venue—-and it got stickier…..

While he’s used to music at relatively loud levels- it was just beyond what Noah’s little ears could tolerate- or enjoy. Which must have been evident to everyone around us- as he held his hands over his ears. It was amazing- to see how many sets of earplugs were offered- and squeezed into his tiny guy ears—– but to no avail—- he hated them.

Now- I’m “x ” amount of dollars into a concert- with a preschooler- that wants to go home. Rides were offered for my oldest- but honestly- I wanted to stay. But NOT at the expense of my little guys ears.

Then, I had one of “those” parenting moments- the kind that makes you go— “Wow, this kid is turning out so awesome— and, it MUST be God… ’cause I’m quite sure I messed him up!”

Mike- offered to take Noah- out to the hallway- so I could stay and listen to the concert— ” ’cause Third Day is your favorite, Mom.” We went out to the hallway- where the music reached an enjoyable level for Mr Noah’s ears…….. We set up with all of his well planned “accoutrements” coloring stuff- gameboy…..snacks, juice, blankie— I even went into the shop and bought a couple of “chair-pads” for them to sit on…… then I went back into the concert.

I didn’t last long. While the music was incredible—I just had a hard time- letting Mike- sit out of a concert- so I could go in….. I felt selfish. Not to mention- feeling like the “Queen of all Loser Mom’s”….who brought a “baby” to a rock concert- that hurt his EARS…….and made her teenager watch him in the hallway- so she could “rock”.

It really was a struggle. I wanted to stay- (and had spent a good chunk of change to do so!) BUT I wanted it to be enjoyable for all of us. And- honestly- I wanted to leave. It would have been easier- I was tempted to just be irritated- and blow the whole thing. ‘Cause things just weren’t turning out the way I thought they would.

Then, it happened-

Noah decided to do what Noah does, when there is music. He dances. There we were, looking quite a bit like a homeless family, camped out in the hallway. And Noah- asks- “Mommy— Dance with me? I’ll spin you!” It was the I’ll spin you- that got me…..so we danced. The un- abandoned Mommy and Baby don’t care bout the world- dancing that you do in the living-room, kind of dancing. Then he wanted to go into the concert… and out of the concert- and INTO the concert—- and dance some more— and spin.

So- we did. And Mike? Well- he took pics- with a delighted—- “I made my Mom happy” look on his face.. (or- a “My Mom is NUTS” look….not really sure which! ;) Really, I could tell- he was thrilled. Like he knew he had made my week. Which He had. and so did Noah. ( Because- I know that someday- he won’t want to dance with Mommy in public anymore. )

And, because- I know- that teenagers don’t usually put their Parents wants- over their own….. but- mine did. Even if it was just for one night.

So- how was the concert? Well- I “heard” about half of it;) ——But- I’ll never forget one minute of it. Besides- there are pics to prove it! ;0 (And a few CD’s to re-live it!!!) But- I could have missed the whole thing- I could have stubbornly just LEFT. Or I could have selfishly just stayed in the concert—–I’m just glad that THIS time— in my Extreme Mothering….I found a compromise— that GOD blessed!

Dear Lord- I thank you, for these boys- please help Matt continue to feel better- and please bless Mike for his sacrifice for me last night–I pray you bless the work of DH’s hands– I love you Lord- and am so thankful for my family—-amen!

file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Tracey%20solomon/My%20Documents/Picasa%20Web%20Exports/thirddaycct/target0.html

Get up- make breakfast- clean it up.

Help locate items for school… get everyone off to school.

change diapers- wipe body parts….cook another meal.. clean up another mess….mop up the floor- feed the pets- do more laundry- cook more meals. clean up more dishes- argue with teenagers about their responsibilities….

Argue with a preschooler- about who is in charge. REALIZE I’m in a tug of war game with children…. and STOP “pulling the rope” (cause it always takes 2 to argue…)

Throw in a load of wash, fold a load of wash. Argue, some more.

Drive to about 13 different places- for 13 different reasons, arrive home- remember the 14th thing I was supposed to get- Drive around some more….

Cook another meal…. clean up another mess…..do more laundry……

Actually, it’s true- much of being a SAHM is REDUNDANT. Even, boring.

There are things that I will knowingly do today—- and recognize- that I will just have to do it all over again tomorrow.

Erma Bombeck says…”Cleaning house with small children is like shoveling snow before it stops snowing” (I absolutely loved, Erma!)

Erma’s right- but it still has to be done. And- I have a problem with that.

See- I’m a “results” driven woman. While in “theory”- I enjoy process, in fact- I love PRODUCT.

Mothering doesn’t work that way. Noses drip constantly- potty training is messy, floors will become covered in syrup-( ) often, at times when freshly washed. Laundry will be worn. Meals will be eaten. And all will need repreating tomorrow.

Sometimes , it feels like being stuck in the “Shampoo Sheol”.(ummm and yes- sheol is another word for he**! )… you know- shampoo, rinse, repreat…. shampoo, rinse, repeat….shampoo, rinse repeat….
A never ending cycle.

So, I knit. No- really. I knit. I’ve also scrapbooked- read, studied- etc….

At the end of the day- I have an “accomplished task”… even if it’s a few rows of knitting. With only a rare exception- (like someone playing jump-rope with my knitting- or the dog eating my needles- while in the project!) — no one comes behind me- and “undoes” what I’ve done….The progress I make today- will be added to tomorrow. I look around- and sometimes get frustrated- with all I’ve done today- that will need to be “done over” tomorrow— and in knitting- I can find a little PRODUCT.

Something that gets done, and stays done.

Mothering- caring for my home- and family- does NOT always show immediate results.

The bulk of my life is invested- “longterm”. Into things and in ways- that will show their results- EVENTUALLY. Which , I am fully committed to. I thoroughly understand the value of “being there” for my kids. Of building trust, and supporting them by providing for their needs- and being “present” in their lives. I am honored to be their Mom- and I’m thankful to be able to stay home…..

But- I’m also human.

Sometimes- it drives me nuts. I’ve told my Husband- it’s like someone erases the computer memory every day ( he works in the computer field) and everything he’s done is erased. I’ve explained it to my kids- like this: Imagine they turn in their homework- and the teacher erases all their work- and hands it back the next day instead of a grade- it’s a blank page. Sometimes- that’s what it feels like.

So I knit. It’s a creative activity that challenges me, (theres always more to learn) and provides a “Product” at the end of the day.

Well- and it’s something to do to avoid shoveling snow before it stops!

Some people will think it’s stupid- a waste of time, some will think I’m selfish- and ungodly because I should LOVE being home….(which I do- but m also honest about it’s not being a panacea of bliss) and some will “get it”…. I knit to balance my need for product- with my families need for long term investment-

It’s a win- win situation.

What do you do?

Dear Lord- I thank you that you make it possible to stay home and care for my family- but sometimes- it’s hard to keep the longterm goals in mind—- please help me to see your hand in all my work- and help me to enjoy the process of parenting, mothering and living in you!

But- ummm—- it WOULD be nice- if something I’ve cleaned would STAY clean! I love you Lord! amen

Reaching under the kitchen sink last night….to get a garbage bag, I made an unpleasant find- soggy cardboard. This is not good.

Soggy cardboard- and wetness under the sink can ony mean a few things…

1) ” Curious Noah” Has struck again…. finally figured out the cabinet locks- and made a “concoction” of chemicals from under the sink…. I smelled the sog—- Musty? Yes. Chemical ? No. (this is good… it means the mess won’t probably end in a trip to the ER.)

2) There is a leak.

Something interesting, here- DH travels for work…. and seems to me, that he must be the glue that holds this home together- because everytime he leaves….. something goes awry. Springs a leak, or breaks down, or someone gets sick.

Honestly- it ticks me off. See, leaks and stuff- that’s HIS job. Not mine. Where is he when I need him? WORK.

As soon- as the thoughts are in my head- I am reminded- yeah- I’m sure he planned it this way—–a huge conspiracy- loosening pipes- to cause me trouble- as soon as DH leaves… ok- yes THATS Nuts. As I reached for the wrench — I realized I needed an attitude adjustment even more- than a pipe adjustment!

Apparently- that’s what God intended- This time, it starts with a leak. Yipee.

I explore under the sink a bit— I’ve fixed things under there before….. I try too tighten the screw in the handle of the valve—-SPRAAAAAAAYYYYYY. Now, instead of a soggy drippy mess- I have a handle spraying (hot) water. I undo what I did. The spray abates. But, slight panic arises.

So, of course, I call DH. In my way beyond panic- CALM voice.. i ask…. “Where is the shut off valve for the kitchen sink….. the one that isn’t under the sink??????”

DH Mentally traces the pipeline - and tries to tell me where it is…. and I bite his head off when he asks why. It’s noisy in the background—- he’s hundreds of miles away— and I am demanding a schematic for our water-line- over the phone…. I know- I’m nuts. But what else can I do? Besides- I’m still not “adjusted” in my attitude - HE shoud be fixing this stupid leak. So, basically- I’m mad at HIM because the pipes are leaking.

After abruptly hanging up——probably because he couldn’t magically fix the pipes thru the phone….

I used a screwdriver, tighted the handle- then shut off the water under the sink. ” There will be no sink usage until Daddy is home…I announce, to the Boyz. “There, now we ALL suffer- because He’s gone…. that’ll teach him” I think to myself” ……Then, I remember- dishes. DISHES- DIRTY DISHES- a WAY full dishwasher full. No sink- no dishwasher- OR washing by hand……this is going to get NASTY. I’m going to have to DO something.

I don’t care- I’m tired- I go to bed- (kind of) I will just have to call the plumber in the morning…. GREAT, I’ll have to clean the kitchen. Can’t have a plumber see my dirty kitchen…. this is getting worse.

I slept in the living room- so I could “hear” if the pipes fell apart…..( they actually DID do that before) No falling apart— well- with the exception of me— but only momentarily.

I made STRONG coffee this morning- then set about “giving it a shot”… (why wake/pay a plumber— when I might be able to fix it myself?) i took a few minutes to pray—- and felt that attitude adjustment start to take hold… we’re a TEAM… He’s doing HIS job- (which at the moment- is the one he gets paid for) this is just a matter of overlap- OUR pipes need to be fixed— the “designated pipe-fixer” is fulfilling another role- …

I’ll have to take a shot, myself- for our family “team”.

Well- and to avoid having to clean the kitchen for “plumber company” ( yes- thats crazy- I know)

I googled ” Leaking under kitchen sink”

I found this:

http://www.misterfix-it.com/Solutions/9Plumbing.html#valve

I followed the directions…..

And, it’s done- dishwasher running- leak apparently stopped.

Know what? It felt pretty good. Sometimes I wonder if God allows these challenges… to make us realize the potential we have…. to solve problems, learn new things and find the help we need. And, as an opportunity to appreciate the other team members. To adjust our attitudes.

Appreciate DH? You thought I was just ticked? How did I get there? Well- cause- when He’s NOT here- fixing what goes wrong— etc- I realize how much He DOES do when He IS here! (trust me- he’s had his oppotunities to be adjusted too)

See- we’re not INDEPENDANT ( I just take care of MYSELF) in our marriage—- nor are we CODEPENDANT..(I take care of YOU) .. we’re INTERDEPENDANT. We depend on each other. While, we DO have clearly defined areas of responsibility, - we overlap- and cover for each other, where necessary.

All of which, sometimes- requires an attitude adjustment. Interdependance- in THEORY— sounds great- until a pipe leaks- and DH needs ME to fix it…..because He’s WORKING.

Why? Because I’m human. - because- I want to only have to do my job- not anyone elses. (Like fixing the pipes) I guess- I want to be “part of a team” as long as I’m the one getting the help—- as long as everyone is doing what I need- or want. Yeah, I guess, I’m that I’m selfish.

Good thing God loves us enough- to “adjust” us occasionally!

Funny how a little leak- and experience with a wrench- can adjust so much in ME!

1 Cor 12:12-26

12The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. 13For we were all baptized by[c] one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.
14Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. 15If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. 16And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. 17If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? 18But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20As it is, there are many parts, but one body.
21The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

Dear Lord- Thnx for the attitude adjustment— please help me to be a better team member— and to serve- in Joy. I love you Lord- and thank you for my family “Team” and for reminding me how necessary we each are! I love you Lord- amen

20. 20 years. 20 Valentines Days. Unbelievable.

This is our 20th Valentines Day.

There have been so many now- of all sorts:

Pregnant Valentines Days.

Sick Valentines Days.

Nursing babies Valentines Days.

Valentines Days- when we fought.

Valentines Days when we “almost forgot”

Valentines Days where we ate in candlelight.

Valentines Days with expensive gifts- Valentines Days with just each other- and it was enough.

Different days, different gifts- different experiences, yet- still something the same-

Because we’ve shared them together-

Kyle- you’re my favorite person in the world.

I’m so glad to be your Valentine.

Looking forward to as many as God chooses to bless us with-

your wife-

“Birch” For the “Booty-full” FO- Update!!!!
The stats:

Bulky Lace Stole- “Birch for the Booty-ful” (my own pattern-Rowan’s beautiful “Birch” is triangular- I prefer NOT to have things point to the booty area! As mine is a bit “FULL”

Lace Pattern: Bernadin’s Sampler “Perky Leaves Ground” from The Lacy Knitting of Mary Schiffman
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/188301042X/sr=8-1/qid=1139932224/ref=sr_1_1/104-7348769-7069551?_encoding=UTF8

Yarn: Knit Picks Panache- Alpaca, silk & cashmere blend- YUM. Color- Coal (appx 10 skeins)
http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/itemid_5420137/yarn_display.aspx

Needles: US #10- Lantern moons- ebony.

I wanted something yummy- and warm—- to wear over a t- with jeans- or with a black dress- for special occasions… I also wanted to give the Panache a try- VERY glad I did! I use just under 10 skeins.

I’ll post the dimensions after she’s dry——- blocking under a fan for now—–(to hurry along her drying— but mostly- to keep my kitties off- of her while drying— they don’t like to sit in fan- blowing range. So far- it’s the only thing I’ve found to keep them off my blocking projects!)

BTW- I’ll be picking up blocking wires this afternoon- as I ran out of pins—-and had to “Improvise” a bit in my blocking technique….. as you’ll notice in the pics… This one may need to be re-blocked. We’ll see.

The lace pattern was simple- 10 stitch 16 row repeat- there are 10 repeats per “tale”. Two tales, then grafted together.

I’ll post the complete pattern if anyones interested- for now- I’m getting ready for Valentines day!