Robertson Family Christmas 2008

What great memories....and how quickly it all passes. Looking forward to a brand new year filled with new journeys. Blessings to everyone.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Merry Christmas Everyone!

These cute pictures and the card are by my friend Andrea Mann. If you would like to check out her photography go to www.andreamannphoto.com. Merry Christmas!

Attempting the Family Christmas Picture!!!

Make a Smilebox greeting

I would add commentary...but I think it is more fun to go with the first impressions that pop into your head :)

Mercy Me Bring the Rain

This song hit me today while I was driving. I have heard it before, but today the words seemed to be speaking right to me. Who "enjoys" the rain that comes into our lives? However through that rain, God is reaching out to us, our hearts, and changing us. There is Christmas and then the real celebration of Easter is right around the corner. I want to share this letter written by MaryBeth Chapman. I pray it will touch your heart like it did mine and give you a renewed vision of what LIFE in Him is all about as we all walk through the rain. Blessings.

MARY (beth's) CHRISTMAS LETTER
I have been impressed for quite some time now to write a letter to all of you who have been so present with us in prayer during these last several months as we have grieved and come to terms with the reality that Maria is gone from us, but present with Christ. We honestly don’t like that very much. As we enter this Christmas season and all of the festivities that it brings, it also makes the point even louder that one of us is missing. A stocking that won’t be filled, and less presents under the tree. Maria had a contagious giggle that would fill the room over the wonderment of finding the elf that moves to a different spot every day during the month of December. The reality that the precious laughter of Maria won’t be heard for awhile has been a quiet loudness that screams for Jesus to come quickly…not as a baby in a humble manger, but as the King of all Kings that will wipe all of the confusion and tears from this sad mother’s eyes! I am eagerly anticipating His arrival, but in the meantime, I thought that I would and should update you all on the Chapman family from a mother’s point of view…. in kind of a Merry Christmas fashion!

M – Maria and Stevey asked Jesus into their hearts on February 20th. They wanted to be sure that they were going to SEE God’s BIG BIG House with lots and lots of food!

E – Emily and Tanner were engaged on May 17th - their one-year of dating anniversary. Tanner took Emily to SEE Maine, where his precious grandmother lived. He proposed to her on an airplane…. long story…maybe another day!

R – Ruthy and Will Franklin started dating in March. She is an awesome young woman and has been an unbelievable support to Will during this very difficult time in his life. They are SEEking Christ with their relationship and we love her so much!

R - “Roo”, or Caleb to you all (don’t ask how he got that nickname), graduated from high school in May. He chose to be homeschooled, but CPA (where he attended K-11) invited him to sing at graduation. The Toy Story song, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”, and a self-penned song titled “Goodbye” were his selections. It was the day after Maria’s funeral and I was so proud of him for following through with his commitment to sing. The funeral was in the exact same sanctuary, and out of respect to our family, the entire graduating class were barefoot in honor of our sweet Maria. You could SEE Christ at work that day!

Y – Yeah Team! GO CPA! Ok, I am a little excited. Will Franklin chose to go back to CPA for his senior year. He decided to play basketball this one last time. For those of you who don’t know, Willy is a talented player who was starting on the team as a sophomore before he decided to homeschool and play drums for Dad. He now starts as a senior, voted a captain, and his team is a state contending team! The best part is that the entire team wear an “M” on their Jersey every game in honor of Maria. They want as many people as possible to SEE Jesus in this story.

C – Caleb and Julia are engaged! November 21st! I tell everyone that Caleb and Julia are elementary sweethearts. They have known each other since elementary school and have been best friends forever. They have only dated each other, and it is about the coolest thing ever! Julia’s family are super close to us and it just doesn’t get much sweeter! Caleb took Julia to Paducah and proposed to her at the exact same spot where Steven proposed to me! I have SEEn God protect and safeguard them. I know He has great plans for their life together!

H – Head em up and move em out! The tour buses that is… Caleb and Will both homeschooled last year so that they could work at what they love! Music! They were hired by a tough boss, SCC, to play in the band. Out they went on the “This Moment” tour. SCC says there is nothing better than to SEE his sons on stage with him. When Will returned to school in the Fall, Caleb continued to play on the “United” tour with SCC and a new boss, affectionately known as Michael W. He enjoyed working with both of these…how should I say it…. Patriarchs!

R – Relationships are all that matter! That is what the Chapmans SEE as one of the main things learned from this year. Things can change so quickly! Do we love well those who are in our circle and out of our circle? Christ put specific people in our path for a specific time and reason. Let’s make sure we SEE every opportunity that comes our way to LOVE WELL!

I – Inspiring. My three oldest children are simply inspiring. Watching first hand and up close my 22, 19, and 17 year olds handle the press as it related to our loss of Maria was simply…. INSPIRING. I watched my children interview with Good Morning America, People Magazine, and Larry King Live. Enough to make a seasoned interviewee struggle with their answers. Not Emily, Caleb, and Will Franklin. The poise and gentleness that they fielded the questions with was simply amazing. They loved well each other, and to watch how they honored their Savior with how they answered the questions was quite humbling. Lots of questions, but the faith they have was definitely displayed for the world to SEE.

S – Stevey and Maria graduated from Pre-school on May 15th. All dressed in caps and gowns! Quite the day to celebrate the upcoming Kindergarten year. They were both presented with diplomas, Bibles, and hugs as they walked across the stage. Stevey said she wanted to be a lifeguard when she grew up. Maria said she wanted to be a ballerina when she grew up. I’d say Maria is dancing right now in the most beautiful of tutus. I only wish I could SEE it!

T – Tanner and Emily were married on October 4th. What a glorious day! Not a cloud in the sky and the weather was perfect. An outdoor ceremony where Stevey Joy released a butterfly in memory of the absent flower girl, Maria. Emily was an absolutely stunning bride, and Tanner was a handsome groom. We celebrated this new family with food and dancing at our barn afterwards. I think it was a picture of what heaven will be like when we are reunited with Christ and the loved ones that we miss so much. Can you imagine what it will be like when we finally get to SEE them again?

M – May 13th Maria turned 5. May 21st Maria left for heaven. We don’t like it at all, and wish with all the wish in us that God would’ve spared us this cross, but for some reason beyond understanding, our family was chosen to walk this journey of suffering out in front of the world. Our only hope is that Christ Himself has been SEEn. Your prayers have been felt. Thanks from the deepest part of our hearts!

A – ASIA. China to be exact! Steven, Caleb, Will, and I went with several others to China for 2 weeks so that Steven could do concerts there! He got to perform at 3 different universities in different parts of China as well as a couple other venues there. We don’t exactly understand why or how (well, God Himself has given favor), but Steven is always welcomed there and is always allowed to sing and perform the exact songs that he would do here in the States. We have huge hearts for China and hope to be spending more time there in the future. You can SEE God at work in the people of China and we feel privileged to be a small part of what He is doing there.

S – Shaohannahs Hope! Continues to be a place where you SEE God himself smile! Emily, Caleb, and Julia have all started to work there this year which is so cool to see your kids loving something so near and dear to your heart. Emily is the International Programs Director and as I write, is meeting with the First Lady of Honduras in Honduras to discuss adoption and orphan care there! Caleb does all the sweet media clips that you SEE about SH! He loves “creating” visual pieces that communicate the SH vision. Julia is the organizational queen administrator! What would we do without someone that is punctual and organized? Maria’s Miracle Fund was established in honor of Maria this year. To date, about $765,000 has been given in her name! Thank you so much for keeping the memory of her full life alive so that others too will live!

As we look to 2009, we have much to be grateful for. Emily and Tanner are praying about Bible College in Ireland, Caleb will marry his lifelong sweetheart, Julia, Will Franklin graduates from high school, Shaoey is going to be double digits (10), and Stevey Joy graduates from Kindergarten! Steven and I will celebrate 25 years of marriage in 2009 as well. I am anticipating a long vacation somewhere warm!

As I anticipate Christmas 2008, I have many thoughts flying through my heart and head. The last several days, my mind has not been able to stop thinking about Mary, the mother of Jesus. Pregnant and scared, knowing that the baby she was carrying eventually would pay the ultimate price of His life. How would I have lived differently if I knew that my time with Maria was going to be this short? Regretfully, I would have lived much differently. I would have purposely hugged and kissed more. I would have tried to memorize and lock away in my heart certain smells and smiles. I would have colored more and worked less. I would have laughed more and fussed less. Bedtime wouldn’t have become a chore to check off the list of things to get done. Instead it would have been more of an opportunity to listen about the day and offer whatever words were needed. The swimming pool wouldn’t have been too cold to swim in. The flowers in the garden would have all been picked, and definitely more ice cream would have been consumed!
I wonder what it was like for Mary after her son’s death. I know she saw him resurrected and was certain of the fact that she would she him again, but she was still his mom. Mary found favor with God; therefore she was chosen to be Jesus’ mom. But because God favored Mary, she was also chosen to suffer. Not just at the crucifixion, but her whole life. She was chosen to carry a baby in her womb, be persecuted and give birth in a dirty stable. Most of the time at Christmas we end the story there…. in the stable, with Mary, Joseph and Jesus receiving their company. Wise men, shepherds, and angels - you get the picture in your head right? The star, the animals, the Nativity! What about the rest of it? Mary, mothering the Son of God! She was human, she had a baby, and she raised that baby with the heaviness that she was to see him suffer and thus she too would suffer. I think when Mary was hiding things in her heart; it was a lot more than the reality of whom she carried in her womb. I am certain that she was hiding away the memories of first smiles and steps, as well as the first tears and tumbles. Knowing what was to come, did Mary have the opportunity to live differently as a mom to her little boy? I believe she did. I am sure that she watched him differently, taught him differently, and prayed differently. I can only imagine the discussions that she and Joseph would have when their son wasn’t listening, how they probably begged God to let the cup pass from them, but in the end yielding up the prayer we all hesitate to pray when it comes to our children…. Your will be done. UGGHH!!!! I don’t want to. I didn’t want to on May 21st, and I still don’t want to now. Yet somehow we did, and somehow we will continue to. I am reminded more than ever this Christmas, that it doesn’t end at the Nativity in Bethlehem in a cozy manger… it is a journey all the way to the cross on the hill in Golgotha on Good Friday.

Christmas for the Chapmans this year represents suffering. For that matter, from here on may we always remember that it represents the ultimate suffering that came. But isn’t it amazing that it is called GOOD Friday? Why is it good if it is full of suffering? Because Easter came on Sunday and what Satan intended for evil, God intended for GOOD! Christmas ultimately ends at Easter and the reality that we will see Maria again! If we are to live as Christ, then we will suffer like Christ. I am thankful this Christmas more than ever for Easter. When all the questions I have will be answered and all the tears I have will be wiped away. Until then, Merry Christmas with the reality that Easter came and all of this suffering will someday be gone in a moment, and all things will become new and right and awesome!
Thanks for your prayers during this journey. It isn’t an easy one and your love and support is continually needed. May you be richly blessed for gracing us with your love.

Longing to be washing dishes in heaven with Maria,
Mary Beth for all the Chapman family

Update on our trip to Springfield

For those of you who don't know, Jim has been accepted into a National Clinical Trial for hemiplegic migraine sufferers. The Headache Care Facility is in Springfield, MO. It is headed by Dr. Curtis Schreiber who is the wonderful man we saw four years ago after we started on this journey. In 2004, Jim had a stroke induced by the medicine he was taking at the time for a hemiplegic migraine. Ever since, we have been searching for triggers and relief that will prevent/lessen these non stop headaches that affect his speech, cause right sided facial and body paralysis, and disrupt his cognitive thinking not to mention incredible pain which he is so good at covering. This man is NOT a complainer. The only reason I can guess he has a headache sometime is when his face is literally drooping.

Jim, Carter, Emma, and I drove to Springfield from Independence, KS on Sunday night. We were so blessed not to have driven in any bad weather. The second after we walked into our room at the Residence Inn, it started to POUR rain, then sleet, and then snow. Jim started his long day with 5 doctors on Monday morning. After many tests, questionnaires, exams, he seemed to them to be the "perfect" candidate for this clinical trial. He was sent home with an electronic diary and he has to record how he feels every day and to qualify for the surgery in January has to have a minimum of 15 headaches out of the next 30 days. (Sadly, that won't be a problem for him.) If all goes as planned, he will have a surgery on January 14th to implant a peripheral nerve stimulation device permanently in his body called an "Advanced Neuromodulation System". The device will be placed under the skin in his hip or back and then a wire the size of yarn, will be threaded up his back and then 4 electrodes will be placed into the occipital area of his brain specifically the occipital and facial nerve area. It is the hope that with the device activated, it will electronically keep the nerve from firing and decrease the pain and the symptoms that occur from the headaches. Though it is outpatient, he will have 3 incisions and is required to shave the back of his head. He is also going to be given local anesthesia because he must be conscious for the entire procedure in order to communicate with the doctor. The neurosurgeon we met with at the end of the day was really great and I feel completely comfortable with him doing the surgery. He was very jovial and friendly.

One of the catches because this is a clinical trial, is that the doctor and us will not know if the actual device they implant is going to be turned on because they need to have a few placebos in the trial. My prayer is that after all of this, we are so hopeful for relief that Jim device will actually be turned on. Please join me in praying for that. 12 weeks after the surgery, all the devices will be turned on however I am specifically praying that the one Jim has is "turned on" at the time of surgery. We are both looking at this as an amazing opportunity that God has provided as a prayerfully a "miracle" cure from all of this. It will also allow him to hopefully get off all of the medicine he is currently on to help curb these headaches and the awful side effects. One of the most amazing parts is this surgery literally costs several hundred thousand dollars and because it is a clinical trial, we don't have to pay a dime. Insurance doesn't cover things like this because it is considered "experimental" so we are grateful for God in opening the door. Now honestly, I am anxious.....seeing the actual device and hearing what they were going to do was a lot more invasive than I had even imagined....even to the point of shaving the hair off with the incisions....but we are really praying this is THE CURE to all of this for Jim.

He won't be able to have an MRI or go through the airport security system because he will have an implanted device but those are just minor things compared to living without pain :)

On another note, Jim and I know that 2009 will bring changes in his job. Whether we are blessed to stay at COP or are employed with someone else please pray that we will listen as God directs our steps (specifically Jim's) and that God will place Jim exactly where he can best be used to glorify Him. I know God will provide for our needs as He is Faithful. It is uneasy to face such things in times of economic chaos in our country and world (especially for me as we have two family members with great medical needs and insurance coverage for Carter and Jim is really a blessing). If God leads Jim to resume traveling every week, please pray for our family unit as we have really grown spoiled to being able to see daddy home most nights now. Pray for me not to be anxious as we face these two huge things.....I must confess I am a little overwhelmed with life this week. As I struggle with my humanness, my sinfulness, and battle my lack of faith, I am reminded constantly as I look back over our lives at God's amazing provision, his love, and how He works ALL things for His glory. Change is the only thing that is guaranteed in this life. I pray every change and road I walk in this life brings me one step closer to Him. We are SO AMAZINGLY BLESSED and I am SPOILED!

I will close with a little letter Emma and I got from Manchona today. I sat on the floor with Emma brought to tears in humility over the things I was worried about reading her letter. Manchona is our 5 year old girl who we sponsor in Zambia.... Emma, "Greetings to you and your immediate family in the name of our Lord Jesus. I sincerely thank you for picking me from among many children as your child in this sponsorship programme. I live with my parents and my young brother in a rural community about 69KM east of Lusaka our major city. I live in a two roomed house made of burnt bricks and a roof of iron sheets. My parents are peasant farmers who grow maise, groundnuts, beans, vegetables, and sweet potatoes. We keep a few goats and chickens as livestock. I enjoy play with toys and baby sitting my younger brother. I would be pleased to hear from you any thing any time. May God bless you. " The sponsor goes on to share how the families here now have clean water to drink because of improved water systems and malnutrition among the children is decreasing because they are teaching them better farming techniques.

The letter ended with a verse that just JUMPED off the page to me. It reminded me as I had literally been in a spiritual wrestling match with my anxiety today that I am to place my Faith in Him with everything....it is an adventure Isaiah 43:19 "Watch for the new thing I am going to do........" That is exciting to me....may I be moldable, flexible, and willing to go, to do, to change.

Now I am Going to Sing Joy To The World :)

Okay my blog all appeared again magically :) Yeah!

My favorite season is here. I LOVE Christmas. I love everything about Christmas minus the chaos of a gazillion activities we seem to entrap ourselves into ....but I do LOVE this season. We baked our first batch of green spritz cookies today. It was a crazy chaotic kitchen with all 5 of us. Emma used her math to double the fractions and tell me what we were going to need to measure out. We talked about the science behind the baking powder and baking soda and just had a great morning. Eli left his imprint all over the kitchen as he got into the food coloring. Around noon, I left everything in a mid stand still to pick up my husband from the ER. I guess he thought it would be okay to sneak down there without telling anyone this morning and get treatment for the migraine he has had for the past 3 weeks. God bless his soul...he needs it for when he wakes up tomorrow, he is going to have to face one mighty ticked off wife.... only for the fact that he 1. drove himself to the ER in the middle of a hemiplegic migraine 2. Told no one and 3. Didn't call until they refused to release him to drive himself home....I am truly thinking these migraines cause a tad bit of cognitive impairment. I don't think I would be so hoppin steamin at him right now if I didn't love him so dog gone much. :) You all know what I mean.

Anyways, tomorrow we have 2 Christmas shows that all of my darlings are in! I had no idea that God would give me such a bunch of showkids. They love to be on stage. All four of them in their own way shine :) I will try and post some video of the performance on Sunday. We are off to indoor soccer on Sunday and then I am going to collapse on Monday, happy for a break from the chaos.
On a more spiritual note, I have found myself battling some depression this week over the various health issues that go on in our family. I have been praying through it and I know the solution for me is to not focus on myself but to get out and serve those God has put in my path. I pray this season, I can look out with the eyes God has and see all of the people who need His extra love this season. I pray my children and I can serve together and look beyond our family to see how to minister to others around us. I encourage all of us to reflect on what God has done in our lives and praise Him for what He is and is going to do, to treasure moments with loved ones, to take a break from the chaos, enjoy your precious family, praise God for health, food to eat, and shelter. I am reminded to remember the broken-hearted, the down-cast, and those less fortunate than myself.

Thank you to those who have ministered to me this past week with your prayers for my boys (both big and little) and for your words of encouragment. Love to you all.

I really have screwed this up!

I need the Geek Squad to come live at my house. I was trying to upload the "cutest" little template for my blog and I have managed to lose everything personal on this site and now I can't find the layout button! Oh dear. I will probably laugh about this tomorrow but right now I am whining about technology being so incomprehensible to me. UGH!

7 Random Things about Me

Hmmmm, here I go.

1. I hate my feet to be dirty and am very OCD about having socks or shoes on. It is a RARE day that you will catch me barefoot. I usually wear tennis shoes from the moment I wake up until the moment I take a bath at night. Then it is socks usually with slippers. Yes, I have actually gotten into the bathtub before with my socks on, accidentally of course! :) This one is for my friend Dalene who doesn't have any OCD tendencies :)

2. I lived in Tehran, Iran as a small child. I was kidnapped for a day in Iran by my بچه نگهدار (babysitter in Farsi) because I had blond hair and green eyes. She wanted to keep me.

3. I LOVE to be alone and it rarely ever happens :)

4. I LOVE a clean house though you would never know it by the state it is always in.

5. I currently have 7 different flavors of coffee creamer in my refrigerator.

6. I have a huge heart for special needs kids, fuzzy creatures, my kids cute little buns, and holidays.

7. I hate to sweat.

I tag Erika my SIL, my husband, and Marci Holley.

Religious Right R.I.P.

I had a chance to actually read the paper this morning and this article by Cal Thomas hit a homerun. I remember having this conversation with the husband of a family I babysat for in college. He was passionate about the church taking responsibility and not relying on government. His words have always resonated in my heart and mind along with scripture.

RELIGIOUS RIGHT R.I.P.

By Cal Thomas

Tribune Media Services

When Barack Obama takes the oath of office on Jan. 20, 2009, he will do so in the 30th anniversary year of the founding of the so-called Religious Right. Born in 1979 and midwifed by the late Rev. Jerry Falwell, the Religious Right was a reincarnation of previous religious-social movements that sought moral improvement through legislation and court rulings. Those earlier movements — from abolition (successful) to Prohibition (unsuccessful) — had mixed results.

Social movements that relied mainly on political power to enforce a conservative moral code weren’t anywhere near as successful as those that focused on changing hearts. The four religious revivals, from the First Great Awakening in the 1730s and 1740s to the Fourth Great Awakening in the late 1960s and early ’70s, which touched America and instantly transformed millions of Americans (and American culture as a result), are testimony to that.

Thirty years of trying to use government to stop abortion, preserve opposite-sex marriage, improve television and movie content and transform culture into the conservative Evangelical image has failed. The question now becomes: should conservative Christians redouble their efforts, contributing more millions to radio and TV preachers and activists, or would they be wise to try something else?

I opt for trying something else.

Too many conservative Evangelicals have put too much faith in the power of government to transform culture. The futility inherent in such misplaced faith can be demonstrated by asking these activists a simple question: Does the secular left, when it holds power, persuade conservatives to live by their standards? Of course they do not. Why, then, would conservative Evangelicals expect people who do not share their worldview and view of God to accept their beliefs when they control government?

Too many conservative Evangelicals mistake political power for influence. Politicians who struggle with imposing a moral code on themselves are unlikely to succeed in their attempts to impose it on others. What is the answer, then, for conservative Evangelicals who are rightly concerned about the corrosion of culture, the indifference to the value of human life and the living arrangements of same- and opposite-sex couples?

The answer depends on the response to another question: do conservative Evangelicals want to feel good, or do they want to adopt a strategy that actually produces results? Clearly partisan politics have not achieved their objectives. Do they think they can succeed by committing themselves to 30 more years of the same?

If results are what conservative Evangelicals want, they already have a model. It is contained in the life and commands of Jesus of Nazareth. Suppose millions of conservative Evangelicals engaged in an old and proven type of radical behavior. Suppose they followed the admonition of Jesus to “love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit those in prison and care for widows and orphans,” not as ends, as so many liberals do by using government, but as a means of demonstrating God’s love for the whole person in order that people might seek Him?

Such a strategy could be more “transformational” than electing a new president, even the first president of color. But in order to succeed, such a strategy would not be led by charismatic figures, who would raise lots of money, be interviewed on Sunday talk shows, author books and make gobs of money.

Scripture teaches that God’s power (if that is what conservative Evangelicals want and not their puny attempts at grabbing earthly power) is made perfect in weakness. He speaks of the tiny mustard seed, the seemingly worthless widow’s mite, of taking the last place at the table and the humbling of one’s self, the washing of feet and similar acts and attitudes; the still, small voice. How did conservative Evangelicals miss this and instead settle for a lesser power, which in reality is no power at all? When did they settle for an inferior “kingdom”?

Evangelicals are at a junction. They can take the path that will lead them to more futility and ineffective attempts to reform culture through government, or they can embrace the far more powerful methods outlined by the One they claim to follow. By following His example, they will decrease, but He will increase. They will get no credit, but they will see results. If conservative Evangelicals choose obscurity and seek to glorify God, they will get much of what they hope for, but can never achieve, in and through politics.

Updates on our Crew

We are sick over here. It really makes me appreciate feeling great even more. I got step throat last week and started on amoxicillin at a very high dose. Then Monday I broke out in hives and an itchy rash. My prescription was changed to a Z-pack and that has helped but whatever I was battling moved down into my chest. So I finally am getting my energy back and just trying to deal with this annoying cough. Meanwhile, the munchkins have had head colds as well. Carter woke up at 3 am throwing up so we have been checking blood sugars and ketones since then. Thankfully his blood sugar has not been high. The challenge has been for me to keep it above 100. He doesn't feel like eating or drinking anything so I am coaxing him with ginger ale and saltine crackers. I usually stress a lot when he is sick, but I am just giving him over to God knowing it is one more situation that I can't even begin to "control". I was reflecting a little about that this morning in my quiet time and can say for certain that "I am not who I was" 5 years ago and for that I am truly grateful. The path has been hard, painful, and long and I am being changed and challenged daily. Funny how the more I grow, the more I am aware of the sinfulness that still abounds in my life. I am grateful for His unfailing love and forgiveness for me. If you want an encouraging word today, check out my friend Christy's blog at www.wildfamilychronicles.blogspot.com. Blessings friends.

Elijah's 3rd Birthday

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

The Pumpkin Patch

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Rosy

Pinky De Hearts

Sometimes you learn the darndest things from your kids. Last night I was talking to my little munchkin red head when she mentioned the name of her pink frog to me "Pinky de hearts". I was cracking up thinking she was a "Pink Lady" from Grease or something saying it to me in her deep 4 year old voice. As we sat on the couch for bedtime stories, she proceeded to show me how Pinky de Hearts wears "just a wittle bit" of wipsmackers wipgloss that is rubbed in ever so gently.

Little Red also has a very fond attachment to a small stuffed Chihuahua named "Rosy". Unfortunately for Hope the other day, our male corgi Brumley who is also attracted to small stuffed dogs got to spend some quality time with Rosy. After a bath in the washing machine and some TLC from Hope, this is Rosy with her "new" do. See the picture posted above.

Here are some things my kids have said that make me laugh.

According to the little munchkins we drive a "bourbon". When something is missing that took a road trip it is "in the bourbon" or the "red Bourbon."

The Pear trees that bloom in the spring are "popcorn" trees.

During school time, one of my dearies was answering a question that required measuring with a ruler. Apparently, the ruler they were using didn't measure inches correctly. According to them, only the blue ruler we have measures inches correctly. Now that I think about it, I am sure my tape measure that I use to measure my hips isn't correct either.

Little Red tells everyone that we are not allowed to eat at Old McDonalds.

And finally a question from out of nowhere!
From Little Red at the dinner table "Mommy do babies come out before the wedding sometimes.?" Hmmmmm

Job Description: MOM

Position: Mother, Mom, Mommy, Mama

Job Description:

Long term team players needed for challenging permanent work in an often chaotic environment. Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings, weekends, & frequent 24 hour shifts on call. Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends, endless sports and/or dance tournaments, & theater plays. Travel expenses not reimbursed. Extensive courier duties also required.

Responsibilities:

The rest of your life you must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $5. Must be willing to bite your tongue repeatedly. Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule & be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, "this time", the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf. Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets & stuck zippers. Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars & coordinate production of multiple homework projects. Must have ability to plan & organize social gatherings for clients of all ages & mental outlooks. Must be willing to be indispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next. Must handle assembly & product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, & battery operated devices. Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product. Responsibilities also include floor maintenance & janitorial work throughout the facility.

Possibility for Advancement & Promotion:

Virtually none...Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining & updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you. When they grow up & get married you eventually get a new title...which you may get to choose unless your new charge comes up with something original. However, common titles are "Grandmother", "Grandma", "Nana", "Meemaw", or "Grams".

Previous Experience:

None required! On the job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

Wages and Compensation:

Get this! YOU PAY THEM! Offering frequent raises and bonuses. A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent. When you die, you give them whatever is left. The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

Benefits:

While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered, this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth & free hugs for life if you play your cards right.

Retirement Package:

None. Just when you think you are done you start all over with grand kids!

Author unknown but whoever she is I love this woman!

JDRF Walks

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Carter's Crew and Forest's too

I am always amazed and humbled to the point of tears at our amazing family and friends who gather to support us in this walk every year. Whether you donate money to JDRF, wear a Carter's Crew T-shirt, walk with us, or simply live life with us, from the bottom of my heart THANK YOU! I can never tell you what it means to my little man and our family to see people wearing shirts and standing beside him. In situations that you can't "fix" standing quietly beside your friends means more than anything.

Today more than ever, I am wanting a cure. You get to a point where you become a little "numb" in order to maintain any sense of "normal". However the reality is this disease NEVER goes away, NEVER takes a break, and at ANY moment can get out of hand with NO warning. Our reminder of that came this morning when Carter's pump crashed. The battery part of it continued to power down sending out this unnerving alarm that could be heard over the entire house. I replaced the battery and it started up again only to do the same thing within 5 minutes. After a phone call to the pump manufacturer who asks very intelligent questions such as "Did you check the battery?" and "Has the pump been dropped?" (Um let's see to the first question YES and the second I am sure it has been dropped a million times as he is an 8 YEAR OLD BOY!!!) Needless to say a quick refresher course must occur as I had to fall back on shots. After the first injection of 6 units of Lantus and then trying to configure the insulin ratio to his carb ratio that literally changes 10 times a day, I am already worn out. I spent half the morning on the phone conversing with the diabetes care team. Carter is asking for Apple Juice and other food and I am losing it with my patience....thinking and impatiently saying WAIT... you can't eat anything yet until I add all the carbs, find the syringes, check the date on the insulin bottles, find the inject a pen, and then give you a shot. Thinking all the time to myself, and Laura if you screw this up he is going to crash (go low and have a seizure) or get really high. The irony to this thought is that can happen even if I do everything "right". So he did indeed crash after the first long lasting insulin injection. We got juice and food down him and got his blood sugar back up. This afternoon he was running in the 360 range with a headache. I drew up another unit and a half to correct him. We will be seeing a lot of each other tonight as I will sneak into his room, turn on the flashlight and prick his finger just to check his blood sugar and make sure that he will wake up "okay" tomorrow morning. Tomorrow I will sign for the pump that is being over-nighted to my house and we will get hooked back up to our "artificial" pancreas. I will take a deep breathe and thank God again for the research that has been done and the fact that a mini computer can figure out all of these things instead of me for another period of time. I will grieve a little bit longer tonight with the reminder that this is continuous and does not end until we are home. Then I will rebuke myself of my self pity and say a prayer of gratefulness for God's amazing provision and faithfulness to meet me right where I am at. I will also pray that somehow, I will be changed from my sinful, selfish, angry ways and that God will use this all for His glory in spite of me.

I am a desperate housewife

My week has been a continual reflection on my brokenness and need for my Savior. I am reminded of the fact that I often run free on my own, then fall down, become broken, crawl on my hands and knees, and am lifted up time and time again by my loving Father. Here are two songs that have ministered to my heart this week. The first by Shawn McDonald "I Need You"

Take my hand to the promise land
And on You I want to stand
‘Cause I cannot do it on my own
You're what I need and I need to be
Right by Your side ‘cause I cannot hide
Lord, I know that I need You
Na na na na na na na na na, I need You
Na na na na na na na na na, I need You
Without You I'm so alone
I am weak but You are strong
You pick me up when I'm falling down
And I am crying
Out to You inside of my heart
I need You, Lord, oh so, for the part
I want You to have my life, Jesus
I fall to my knees
And I'm begging You, please, oh, Lord
Won't You change me
Make me new from the inside out
I want to shout out Your name

Second is this song by Ginny Owens

The pathway is broken
And the signs are unclear
And I dont know the reason why you brought me here
But just because You love me the way that You do
I will go through the valley
If You want me to

CHORUS:
Now I'm not who I was
When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise
You're not through with me yet
So if all of these trials bring me closer to You
I will go through the fire
If You want me to

It may not be the way I would have chosen
When you lead me through a world that's not my own
But You never said it would be easy
You only said I'll never go alone

So when the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear You answer my cries for help
I'll remember the suffering Your love put You through
And I will go through the valley
If You want me to

JDRF Walk September 27th, 2008

Hi Friends and Family,
We're writing to you to ask for your support in a very special cause. On September 27th, we are going to participate in our 3rd annual Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Walk “Campaign For A Cure.”
Two years ago in July, our son Carter was diagnosed at the age of 5 with Juvenile Diabetes. Since that time, we have adapted to a new “normal” of shots, blood sugar checks via finger pricks 6-8 times a day, and an insulin pump which Carter wears 24 hours a day.
This year, along with a half-million other walkers across the country our national goal is to raise $100 million to help fund research for a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications. Type 1, or juvenile, diabetes, is a devastating, often deadly disease that affects millions of people - a large and growing percentage of them children. Many people think type 1 diabetes can be controlled by insulin. While insulin does keep people with type 1 diabetes alive, it is NOT a cure. Aside from the daily challenges of living with type 1 diabetes, there are many severe, often fatal, complications caused by the disease.
Juvenile Diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin. Insulin allows sugar to pass into our cells so that it can be “burned” for our energy. The cells are like a furnace, which burn fuel to make energy. Our bodies constantly need energy for all of our body functions. Sugar comes from two places. “Internal” sugar comes from our body’s own production in the liver or from the release of stored sugar from the liver. This sugar is released into the blood stream. “External” sugar comes from the food we eat. It enters the stomach and then moves into the intestine where it is absorbed. When people do not have diabetes, the pancreas makes insulin to regulate both internal and external sugar.
When people have juvenile diabetes, the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin. The blood sugar can’t pass into the body’s cells to be burned. Instead the blood sugar rises to a high level and overflows through the kidneys into the urine. When sugar enters the urine water is pulled from all over the body to go out with the sugar. This can quickly lead to extremely high blood sugars which starves the body and worst case if untreated will cause organ damage and potentially a coma. To counteract this disease, we check blood sugars six to eight times a day with a small finger prick in Carter’s fingers. We determine his blood sugar from the meter and enter it into his insulin pump and make adjustments to keep it within a good range of 70 to 180. For everything Carter eats or drinks, we count the carbohydrates and enter the information into his pump so that the pump can figure out how much insulin to administer.
Many people often ask if Carter’s diabetes is under control or stabilized. We often don’t know how to answer that question. Diabetes never takes a break or vacation. Diabetes doesn’t get better or is cured. It is not a disease that is “controlled”. Everyday stresses, emotions, hormones, excitement, exercise, and food all play into how the body responds. No two days are alike. As a parent it is extremely frustrating as we can “do” everything right one day and have perfect sugars all day long. Then can do the exact same things the next and have extremely high or extremely low blood sugars. Illness also affects these children quickly. When they get the flu or even a cold, the body has to fight extra hard to battle the illness and blood sugars often soar to high levels.
Two years ago in July, Laura was at a homeschool meeting at our dear friend Christy Cook’s house. While she was there, she got the heart wrenching phone call of Carter’s diagnosis. Two years later, our dear friends Christy and Tim are walking this path personally with their sweet 8 month old son Forest. He was diagnosed 3 weeks ago after having dangerously high blood sugars. Christy and Tim are traveling the same road of grief, stress, anger, and anxiety that we have felt. Imagine checking blood sugar levels on their dear baby boy 10-15 times a day and injecting insulin 3-7 times a day.
Sixteen years ago, Laura lived with a family and babysat their 4 amazing children which were all in my wedding. Their family played a huge role in mentoring her. Their youngest daughter Emmy was diagnosed with Juvenile diabetes just this past February. She is having to learn to cope with this as a young adult and all the social, emotional, and physical challenges it entails as she heads off for her freshman year at KU.
As parents, overnight we turn into nurses, mathematicians, dieticians, and technical gurus all the while trying to keep from hitting the panic button as you read crazy blood sugar readings. Sometimes the pump doesn’t work or the body isn’t responding due to illness and we have to respond by administering shots many times throughout the day as well. We're writing to ask for your support because now more than ever, EACH of us can be a part of bringing about a cure. Each of us can make a real difference.
The good news, though, is that a cure for Type 1 diabetes is within reach. In fact, JDRF funding and leadership is associated with most major scientific breakthroughs in Type 1 diabetes research to date. And JDRF funds a major portion of all Type 1 diabetes research worldwide, more than any other charity.
What can you do to help? First I would ask that you consider joining us on this walk September 27th as your presence provides amazing support and encouragement for these children and their families.
Secondly, I would ask you to consider donating to JDRF as they continue to pursue a cure for those affected with this disease. Won't you please give to JDRF as generously as you're able? http://walk.jdrf.org/walker.cfm?id=87057623
Third, we have designed JDRF walk t-shirts for Carter and Forest. Would you consider purchasing a T-shirt or several to wear and raise public awareness and support for Juvenile Diabetes? Adult shirts are $15 and children’s shirts are $13. Any extra money raised from these shirt sales will go towards JDRF. Shirts can be ordered by emailing Laura at robertsonlaurac@cableone.net Adult sizes are $15 and Child sizes are $13 each. A picture of the shirt can be found at http://robertsonlaurac.blogspot.com
Lastly, and most importantly, we ask for your prayers that God will keep these children healthy and use this disease in their lives for His glory. Also that He will help us as parents to trust Him for his care and provision of these children so anxiety and fear does not rule our days.
If you'd like to join us on the walk to support Carter and Forest, it will be held in Tulsa at the OU-Schusterman Center on September 27th from 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Together, we can make the cure a reality.
Thank you,
Jim & Laura Robertson
Tim & Christy Cook
Please visit our Walk Web page if you would like to donate online or see how close we are to reaching our personal goals:
http://walk.jdrf.org/walker.cfm?id=87057623

More K-Kauia Video exerpts

Some of the highlights from our family Kamp on video. We were able to run into old friends who we hadn't seen in years. Eric Peterson was my K-life leader in high school. He and his wife Kim were at Kamp with their 3 kids Starr, Cade, and Raleigh. It was really fun to catch up with them and see their kids in person. One of my most favorite memories was getting to see Cooper Merrill. I used to babysit their family Kirby, Bo, Cooper, and Emmy. I lived with them while I went to school and they were all in my wedding 14 years ago! Their mom Kim is an amazing Godly woman who has a contagious sense of humor and was a huge influence on my life. Here is a fun picture of Cooper all grown up with 2 of my kiddos. Where does time go?

The shovel relay race. I was a little nervous putting Eli on the back of the shovel with 2 very fast, strong competitive Peterson's! You can hear my serious prayer in the background that Eli not get hurt :) Kim Peterson's ran after her husband saying Eric don't let him fall off. Eli had a blast and started crying when he had to get off the shovel to let someone else have a turn. Hope went next. Carter got to celebrate his birthday at Kamp. It was so fun to hear the birthday rap and watch Carter's serious and overwhelmed expression. I think he had fun ! I had fun watching the silly dancing. I want to find that great song on "Ice Cream and Cake".
Found it thanks to Kipplyn! Listen and Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NC_gkcplz_4

K-Kauai

Our family has been to K-Kauai family Kamp and it was a one in a million experience. Here are a few highlights from our trip! Enjoy :)

Emma above with her other favorite counselor Crystal.

Hope busted out of her shell and rocked the wall! She amazed us all for being only 4! You go girl!

"I don't wanna go home boom boom I'm having a wonderful time. "

"I'll hide right here under my blanket and maybe they'll leave me behind"
A+ for creative thinking.

Emma and her Kamp friends Josie and RandiKate

Hillbilly Hawaiian Hullabaloo

Elijah and Hope's favorite pastime.

Notice Eli's shirt..."My parents are exhausted"
Our buddy Jansen with Eli. Jansen hung out with Carter the whole time and watched out for any blood sugar swings. He was awesome!

Our silly friend Clay. Eli still looks at his face in a picture and makes funny noises at him.

Picture Perfect!

Gospel Walk "A Night of Second Chances" was amazingly powerful.

Arm wrestling during Hawaiian Hullabaloo night was a family favorite!

Playing monster golf was a huge hit with our family. I actually can hit the ball.

Giant Jenga!

Emma with one of her Riptide counselors Sarah. Emma would have lived at Kamp all summer long as she was really in her element.

Will Cunningham the director hugging on our kids telling Carter he can do anything he wants to do and encouraging him.

Three very silly, happy boys!

Shooting at the archery range was a FAVORITE thing to do!

Carter and I both had fun shooting the BB gun. I may be asking for a Red Rider BB Gun for Christmas.

Our giggling, kool-aid stained 2 year old! Having a BLAST!!!!!!
Elijah thinks he owns the Kamp. He often would take himself on a walk through Kamp leaving our room when he felt like it. We could find him in places such as "The Bean" where we would hear stories of him leaning over a booth to tap our guest speaker on the shoulder, taking his face in his small hands and telling him excitedly "This place was closed but now it's Open!" We had several offers for him to join different families. I think this was due to his independent streak of wandering and exploring puddles, waterfalls, and high adventure areas. Someone should really talk to his parents about keeping a better eye on him. :)
Our family did the zipline, the ropes course, archery, riflery, canoeing, boat rides, rock wall climbing. Playing putt putt everyday was one of Carter's most favorite activities.

Here is Eli going off the high dive all by himself. I tell you what, this kid has no fear of heights!
We loved the awesome counselors who played with our kids and made them giggle, and giggle, and giggle. Jim and I were refreshed spiritually and renewed as we listened everyday to our guest speaker Rene Schlaepfer speak on Heaven. We loved playing together and having fun. Now we are all in recovery mode and catching up on many much needed ZZZZZ's. One of the highlights for me was how wonderful these college boys were with Carter. They really were on top of their game taking care of him and helping to manage his blood sugars during the morning hours. Jim and I were really grateful to see such amazing, servant hearts in these young men. They showed such compassion and maturity in making sure they took the best care of Carter. It was a blessing and made the week even better. I had to laugh when I told them to relax a bit and that everything was fine :) I have some more funny video clips I will post tomorrow.

For my Son and our little friend

Here is a poem I found on a website tonight...it sums up in a nutshell how I feel at times. I am going to bleep out the expletive however at times I can echo the words she uses in my heart too.

A Mother's Promise
She walks down the hallway in silence so deep,
Keeping watch over him, as her little one sleeps.
With meter in hand, she opens his door,
Making sure not to wake him as she crosses the floor.
She sits on his bedside and brushes his hair,
As he dreams of shooting baskets, without a 'D' care.
She holds his hand softly; his fingers so small,
As she watches and wonders why 'D' came to call.
While she watches him sleeping, so peaceful and warm,
The forces inside him fight a constant 'D' storm.
Will he ever be free of shots and blood testing?
She sits and she wonders as she watches him resting.
The beep of the meter breaks the silence of the night,
A small drop of blood tells if everything's right.
The seconds count down to the final display,
I hate this xxxx meter; I want to throw it away.
The number is fine, one down, a lifetime to go,
As he turns in his sleep, will he ever know?
Why does this 'D' happen to someone so small?
My son is my hero, but my baby most of all.
She turns at his doorway, looking back one more time,
It's a nightly routine of the very worst kind.
She walks down the hallway and time passes by,
As she sits in dark silence and quietly cries.
I have to stay strong, and for him I will fight,
We'll battle this 'D' with all of our might.
I'll teach him to master and conquer this foe,
This 'D' will not stop him, I promised him so.

Friendship

I read this quote this morning on the Heart of Wisdom website. I wanted to share it with my amazing, dear friends.

Henri Nouwen said this about the gift of friendship in Bread for the Journey:

"Friendship is being with the other in joy and sorrow, even when we cannot increase the joy or sorrow. It is a unity of souls that give us nobility and sincerity to love. Friendship makes all life shine brightly."

My sweet treasure

Here is Eli singing his praise song for us. Enjoy! He loves to sing it for people.

Where's Waldo?

Remember those books....I am Waldo....I am buried under a house of clutter, a mass of activities, and the business/chaos of running a zoo. I no longer blog because I can't get my computer working....I blame Dell. I also can't find it under all the piles on my counter!!! LOL I no longer read blogs because I can't find the time any longer to sit down. I am working out like crazy...my days are starting at 5:30 am walking with new friends in the neighborhood 4+ miles. I am drinking 120 oz of water a day and still gaining 10 pounds. What in the HECK is up with that!! I have given up my dearest friend Sonic cokes which I LOVE and am sadly going through withdrawals. My kids think it brings on more periods of Miss Cranky Pants during the day. I miss my cokes dearly! My closet sits full of clothes that no longer fit....my body is sorer than I ever remember. I finally get what people meant about "you need to stretch" I am 35 now...not in my 20's. Why does getting in shape hurt so much...if this is FUN...I would rather be unfun.

As I write this, Emma is reminding me that I am crabbing and not glorifying God right now in my words! So I need to get off of the computer and go work on my time with the Lord and hang out with these awesome kids I have been blessed with. The Flylady is back in my life and kicking my tail back in shape. We are de-cluttering our nest over here and getting rid of lots of stuff. Hopefully we will have the Madame Blueberry Stuffmart garage sale next Friday morning! If you don't hear from me for awhile...don't worry, I will be back sometime!

Meanwhile if you want check out the Flylady... http://www.flylady.net/ and her friend http://www.savingdinner.com/ Both have been very helpful lately in my life!

Okay I don't think I am playing the tag game this time around but I thought I would share some of my bad habits lately...
1. Not paying attention to detail while driving....I rear ended a man Monday night at Price and Silver Lake...That was a GREAT start to my week. :) So much for my perfect driving record. Also what I get for being impatient!
2. Poor conflict resolution: My kids are fighting and screaming during breakfast....I went upstairs and crawled back in bed....for 45 minutes.
3. While cutting fingernails and toenails I managed to make 4 toe's bleed and 2 fingers....who's next in line?
4. I have crankily, flushed 2 fish down the potty....cleaned up 3 piles of cat throw up and 1 dog bed with throw up. I can have a VERY Bad attitude towards these creatures that live in our house! We have LOTS of Flying Fur!
5. Again attention to detail... We have accidently thrown away 3 of Eli's swimsuits that were pooped....Really not an economically sound way of cleaning up :) I don't want to hear any potty training advice on this child...HE JUST DOESN'T CARE!!! :)
6. You know your pleasant when your kids start every sentence with "Mom, don't get mad But....." and to sum it all up Carter tells me one day "Mom, you kind of remind me of the white witch in Narnia" hmmmm beyond the blatant lack of respect it does make me ponder my tude!

Why Do Parents Think They Have a Right to Force Their Religion on Their Children

I went to order a book on Amazon Monday morning. I ran across this discussion thread and was literally amazed at the posts. I emailed it out to a few of my friends and my amazing friend Christy had the most intelligent and logical response. She posted it on the thread. I just had to share it with you because she represented my heart so well with her words!

Here are the first few thoughts posted by this man : Riichard J. Collins says:
Other than tradition passed down from patriarchal societies when wives and children were considered chattel of their husbands to do with as they wished, why should modern parents believe they have unfettered rights to teach their children anything they want? Indeed what makes parents believe their children must believe the same way about politics or ethics as they do? Why not let them mature and make their own decisions? Here in the west we no longer believe we can force a woman to marry someone, or force a child to attend a certain university or take up a certain trade. Why does religion enjoy an exception to our otherwise fair minded thinking?

Riichard J. Collins says:
There is a time in a child's life when they are totally vulnerable to the ideas they are given by the adults around them. Religious institutions know this and that is why they begin on the children when they are barely out of diapers. Is it not immoral to take advantage of a vulnerable person? Parents may believe, as you say, that what they are doing springs from the best of motives. In fact I think this is the case. I read recently that some 80% of children raised in the Baptist faith walk away after they graduate from high school. So people argue there is nothing wrong with indoctrinating children at an early age. Except that attitude conveniently overlooks the stigma and shame attached to leaving a religious community. The kind of psychological abuse apostates are meted out leaving a church is anything by loving. For secular people to accept your argument that God has a plan for mankind, you first have to prove there is a god and give us good reasons why his plan is so good. Instead, we get worn out platitudes, earnest assurances and religious propaganda. If you can convincingly demonstrate there really is a god and that "his plan" is the way to go I am sure most fair minded people would go along with you. By the way, why has God been hiding since he last talked to Moses on the Mount? Suppose a parent chooses Christianity for a child and later when the child matures they decide they want to be a Muslim or any other of the various sects or religions. Many people stumble through all sorts of confused spiritual journeys simply because they were indoctrinated with the idea that there is a transcendent purpose in life. Why put children through this ordeal?

Riichard J. Collins says:
But you don't seem to want to understand that your child is an individual that has his own set of rights. One of those rights is his freedom of thought and religion. You have a responsibility to make decisions for him that do not restrict his freedoms or limit his future options. Forcing him into your religion may not be what he wants. What if he says to you (I don't know how old he is now) I don't want to go to a Catholic church. What is going to be your answer? Have you ever sat him down and asked him directly if he was enjoying his Catholic church experience? Did it ever even occur to you to do this? What if he tells you he wants out? Then what?What I want you to explain to me is why you will not respect his rights. Your reply didn't really hit the mark. Anecdotal evidence abounds that children don't like what they are subjected to by the church. Are you avoiding this reality?

After almost a thousand posts...my dear friend Christy replies with such wisdom
Christy G. Cook says:
Richard, I have been reading alot of these posts for the first time today. I have not yet read them all so forgive me if I say something that has already been said. I am a Christian Home schooling mother, so you might think that I would be getting ready to attack everything you have said, however, I find myself agreeing with a lot that you have to say. I have experienced the people who have told me to "stop thinking so much" and "just believe." Quite frankly, I find it a troubling "trend" in the church in America. If God is Omniscient and Omnipresent and created this amazing world, does He really intend for us to "blindly" follow Him and stop thinking?? How insulting.I personally am telling my children all the time to ask questions. I tell them that they should never just believe something because someone they like (or even love) said it. I tell them to think for themselves. I believe that God intends for us to question and seek out answers. By the way, in response to your "Superstition and science do not go well together" statement, I would encourage you to investigate how many early scientists (that have contributed to our wealth of knowledge today) were Christians. Begin with Copernicus and his theory that the world was NOT the center of the universe. Anyway, I digress, my point is that, you are right, our children have minds and they should USE them. If I believe I am teaching them about a God who cannot stand the test of "intelligent questioning" then I should re-evaluate what I am teaching. Too many of us are afraid to question our own beliefs. Really, when it comes right down to it, we are ALL taking a leap of faith. I have faith that there is a loving God who created this world and actually entered into it through the person of His son Jesus Christ and shed His blood to cover the patheticness of my sin. You have faith that there is NO God and that all of this world got here somehow by accident. Muslims have faith that there will be many virgins awaiting them after they press that button and blow themselves up. I guess we just have to choose which faith we will have. But, when it comes to my children, I will teach them what I believe. They will also know that there are many people out there who believe differently from their mother and father ( and most of them because they were taught from an early age to do so. ) I will also teach them to question, and reason and think for themselves. Ultimately, I think they will come to their own conclusion that God is real and He loves them. BUT, I cannot make them come to that conclusion. Have you ever heard of Classical education? Look it up. It is the only method of education that truly teaches children to think and reason for themselves. Thank you for your posts and this discussion that is SO absolutely necessary!God Bless.

To me here is the HUGE part...his response!!! Riichard J. Collins says:
Christy,If every parent thought like you do, we would have no problems. You obviously have a lot of insight into the issue and have adopted a course that is fair to your children and still allows you to guide them as you feel your parental duties dictate. This is exactly the balance we hope to see. Thank you for posting and please continue to share your thoughts.

Christy G. Cook says:
I'm very pleased to find you think I am balanced. However, I don't look at myself as "unique" in my perspective. I believe there are many parents out there who are thinking just like me. There is the "vocal" minority who fear the discussion and just lash out in defensive, angry rebuttal. Then there is the majority who are happily, peacefully enjoying their freedom to train their children in an intelligent manner. I hope you will find this in your "pursuit of the discussion."

Great Job Christy!
Here is the link for the thread : http://www.amazon.com/tag/parenting/forum/ref=cm_cd_pg_oldest?%5Fencoding=UTF8&cdForum=Fx20C498EK5JY4S&cdPage=1&cdSort=newest&cdThread=Tx2CZZFKFXLZ0XM