tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-322058632024-03-07T20:18:15.386-06:00Redheaded Rants & RavesThis is the place where I can journal my thoughts, and learn from others who blog as well. Even though I'm in my mid-thirties, I feel like I've only just begun to learn. I am a native of Kentucky, but have lived in 6 other states besides there. My husband and I have five, fun children.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.comBlogger143125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-66495581133486961952009-04-21T21:17:00.003-05:002009-04-21T21:29:36.862-05:00Where Have You Been Young Lady?Well, it's been a while.<br /><br />I have missed my little blog, but not enough to come visit. Reminds me of how I feel about my prom dress. I love it, I could never throw it away, but I don't really want to spend time with it. Make sense?<br /><br />Here's a little recap that might explain why I have been so scarce 'round these parts...<br /><br />strep throat that kept me in bed for a week<br />basketball games<br />basketball practices<br />cheerleading practices<br />cheerleading games<br />baseball practices<br />guitar lessons<br />piano lessons<br />art class<br />homeschool<br />switching kids bedrooms around<br />van breaking down<br />re-financing house<br />buying new (old) van<br />planning our first family vacation in 5 years<br />wrapping up holiday small business<br />starting a new business venture<br />doctor's appointments<br /><br /><br />it's nothing you all aren't already doing.....but I have been struggling to keep my head above water and blogging hasn't been a priority<br /><br />So, my latest spiritual goal is to read Desiring God by John Piper with a few friends. I am looking forward to what the Lord will teach me. Wanna join us?<br /><br />So, that's it....over and out good friends.<br />Can't say when/if I'll be back...come find me on Facebook!El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-49907809803921548592009-02-03T12:45:00.004-06:002009-02-03T12:50:57.361-06:00Life Goes On?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqeQe4KwCEUYp6tgpEpAVbcJdJL-b0GbLa-g8zFiqBvHvg1k_JRLNE19ujdBv-L04Awn0nmhGU_tT-3JQ3Vpsgyrlo2jfpzdRoCYicaoxr9HgjezgG9xXBX-DJEr8I6DCzFB7/s1600-h/Balloon+Release.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqeQe4KwCEUYp6tgpEpAVbcJdJL-b0GbLa-g8zFiqBvHvg1k_JRLNE19ujdBv-L04Awn0nmhGU_tT-3JQ3Vpsgyrlo2jfpzdRoCYicaoxr9HgjezgG9xXBX-DJEr8I6DCzFB7/s200/Balloon+Release.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298645531124997522" /></a><br />I received this update today from my cousins, Phil and Amy. I have often thought of them this last month and wondered "how are they <span style="font-style:italic;">really</span> doing?" Here is her response, and it is heartbreaking. Please join me in lifting up this precious family in prayer.<br /><br />Dear friends & family:<br /><br />It was 4 weeks ago right now that we spent the last hour of Dylan’s life. Once I woke up and realized what this hour was (4:00 a.m.), there was no more sleep for me. So here I am, trying to describe what this last month has been like for us. Many of you have asked how we are doing through calls, emails, etc. We don’t want to avoid answering the question, but it is also difficult to do so on a daily basis, so here it goes…<br /><br />The first week was a devastating whirlwind. We had done what we thought was a lot of planning 3 years ago. We wanted to have it “done” and not let it hang over our heads for the rest of Dylan’s life, so we could Live. That was a good decision, but we wished we had taken it further. We planned things like which funeral home to use, bought the plots in the cemetery, decided to do a private burial and a huge memorial, and planned the balloon release. What we didn’t know is that there would be a thousand other decisions that would have to be made. Some were made very quickly, such as what clothes to bury Dylan in. He wore his Christmas sweater. I had bought matching sweaters for the boys at Old Navy, and had nearly returned them as being unnecessary. Dylan’s was red and Jackson and Conner’s were gray with a black stripe. The three boys wore them to the Christmas Eve service at church. The big boys wore theirs to the burial. Unbelievable details. <br /><br />Now is about the time that we got the boys out of bed to say goodbye to their brother (4:50 a.m.)<br /><br />Many decisions took a long time. How do you write your child’s obituary? It is unspeakable. Literally. Lisa wrote the first draft, or I never could have put a word to paper. We also needed to select photographs to use at the services. How do you reduce 5 years of your child’s life to 30 photographs? It was impossible. So we finally settled on 350. Delisa whittled it down from over 2,000 and then Amy went through them twice after that. So many people did anything and everything possible to help us during that planning time. Trisha – there are no words, my dear friend. You were there in the beginning, and you promised to be with us until the end, and you didn’t miss one single step. We will be grateful to you for the rest of our lives. Delisa – you are my rock. No way to say enough. Dick – you prayed that God would “show up” because we needed him. He did, or we never would have made it through that week. Your words were just right. Thank you. <br /><br />Amy’s sister Laura had come to visit from Charleston for the first time in two years. That ended up being Dylan’s last night. We were in the middle of the movie P.S. I Love You that night. It had a whole new meaning when we finished it almost a week later. It was so helpful to have my sister here. Certainly not the visit we had planned. Laura and Katie and Delisa created a system in the chaos and handled everything at home, while Trisha led Phil and Amy through the fog of decisions. We spent time on every detail because we felt it was the last thing we could do for Dylan. We wanted his Memorial to be beautiful. It was just like we wanted it. <br /><br />John – the DVD is stunning. We will mail it around to family members to watch (and return to us). If you couldn’t make it to the Memorial Service, you can watch it on Phil’s YouTube account at http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=8B519F0ED97D701D. Please listen closely to the words of the 3 songs. Deb wrote “Dylan’s Song” for him 4 years ago, “Homesick” is our heartfelt prayer, and we know that Dylan is now “Dancing with the Angels”. People have asked how many balloons we released. There were 500 and they filled the sky. <br /><br />Our extended family members were in absolute awe at the support network of friends and neighbors/friends that surrounded us. Delisa and David opened up their home, and friends and ALL of the neighbors swooped in with food. Angie & her sisters cooked a feast. Amy’s family from Illinois just couldn’t get over it. You Neighbors have not missed a Wednesday night meal in over 4 years. Inconceivable. Thank you. Larry and family want to “steal” our church and take it to Evansville . Special thanks to many other friends – you know who you are – from helping to pick out flowers, helping to pick out clothes for the services, etc. More to come later on how we made it through Dylan’s birthday on January 16. <br /><br />5:11 a.m. Dylan’s time of death. Sophie just woke up and cried out. That sweet baby is the most intuitive little being. She is grieving also. In just 18 months, she has lost her birth mother, her foster mother of 7 months, and now her brother. And she just doesn’t understand. I am so sad for her, but INFINITELY grateful to have her here. What would I do with empty arms, after carrying Dylan around for almost 5 years after birth and 9 months in utero? Sadly, Phil needs Sophie’s snuggles just as much, but she’s not giving them. She has never been a snuggly baby, so you just have to take it when she’s willing. She was quite mean to Phil for 3 weeks because she was being totally a Mommy’s girl, but has been better for the last week or so. Maybe God knew I wouldn’t survive it without her clinging to me. When she sees me cry, she stops what she’s doing and walks to me with her arms stretched out. <br /><br />We went through all the stages of grief in the 4 years since Dylan was diagnosed. Denial, Anger, Depression, Acceptance. Bargaining is in there somewhere and we did that too. We grieved for the loss of our healthy little boy. We grieved with each loss of ability, with each “new normal” that was less than what we had before. Around Christmas, Amy had started to grieve the fact that she wouldn’t be registering Dylan for Kindergarten in the spring. There was constant loss and grieving. But we still had our “sweet boy” (which is what we called him) in our arms. And now we don’t. <br /><br />So now we grieve for the sick little boy that we wrapped our arms and lives around. He wasn’t physically whole, but we tried to love him enough to make up for it. I really don’t think a child has ever been kissed more. A woman sitting behind Phil in church one day asked him if he knew how many times he had kissed Dylan during the service. He said “I don’t know. A bunch”. She said, “Probably 100”. That was in an hour. But now we start over with Denial. This is such a physical loss for us, because we held him so much. We are in shock that we will never hold him again. Our grief counselor said it can take up to 3 months for it to really sink in. Of course we knew this was going to happen. But there is no way to be “ready”. You can never be ready to lay your child’s body in the ground. I know he’s not there. But the little body that we touched and kissed is there. <br /><br />There is no comfort for us in not having to care for Dylan now. It is much less busy, but not a welcome relief. Phil realizes that so much of his identity was wrapped up, not in work, but in being “Dylan’s Dad”. And he was such a good Daddy. No man could have been more involved or loved a child better. He feels somewhat “without purpose”. It is hard to explain how our lives (and even our house), were wrapped around Dylan’s care. After he died, there was not a direction we could turn our heads and not see some painful reminder of Dylan’s life and care. His medicines was all over the counter tops, the cabinet was full of bottles, there were notes on the inside of the cabinet of food ideas, there was a tub of neck pillows and positioning devices next to the couch, there was a basket of diaper changing supplies on the other side of the couch. That’s just the living room area. Not to mention his chair. We moved it yesterday. It sat there just like he had left it for weeks. We finally folded the blankets and pillows into a stack. Yesterday, I washed the comforter that was on top of it (and forgot to put it in the dryer, I now realize). We can’t get rid of the chair, so we are going to have it recovered and use it until it collapses. We are getting a bigger kitchen table, so it will fill the spot where his chair was. <br /><br />Amy finds one point of relief. I had stressed and grieved for so long over “not knowing”. Not knowing when, not knowing how, not knowing if he would be in pain, not knowing if he would know us, not knowing if we would be with him, not knowing if we would be in a hospital with tubes and monitors everywhere, not knowing if it would be chaotic or peaceful, not knowing how much more we would lose. Now I know. <br /><br />We would have asked for more warning for our own sakes. But for Dylan’s sake, it went the best way possible. And now I know that. So in that, there is relief. <br /><br />So how are we really doing? We have been living our worst nightmare for over 4 years, and it is not time to wake up. But we are getting out of bed and getting dressed, so what more can we ask for? People have been faithful in praying and continue to offer support in many ways. We know the prayers are there, because how else could we be functioning? The big boys seem to be doing well. We hope it’s not just Denial, but the grief counselor will continue to help us monitor them. Phil’s pain is every bit as big as mine. I think that’s hard for people to understand. Women are relational beings and men want to fix it. This can’t be fixed and there are no words, but please be there for Phil as well. This will be a long road ahead. <br /><br />Please continue to pray for us: <br />+ For strength, to survive.<br />+ For peace<br />+ For Jackson, Conner & Sophie to deal with their grief and not suppress it. <br />+ For Sophie to give Phil her snuggles and fill his empty arms. <br /><br />The website is http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/dylanmay.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-83901332988734190022009-01-19T10:27:00.005-06:002009-01-19T11:10:50.558-06:00I Got Drunk At Church YesterdaySo, I'm sick. And not just a little bit sick. This is kicking my tail. I've pulled out all my all-natural tricks, finally went to see the doc who prescribed an anti-biotic which hasn't touched it. Went to Urgent Care over the weekend only to have the arrogant doc there tell me, "It's not that bad." <br /><br />I said to the moonlighting doctor who got his degree from the University of Phoenix, "Look, I've had four babies without drugs. In the last 10 hours I've taken 13 Ibruprofen. That's more than I took when I gave BIRTH. I am I-N P-A-I-N." <br /><br />He looked at me and rolled his eyes, and said, "Keep taking the Ibruprofen." <br /><br />You wanna see a Redheaded Rant & Rave? We nearly had ourselves one right there in the doctor's office. He doesn't have very much hair, it wouldn't have been pretty. <br /><br />So, still in a lot of pain. I'm not contagious and life must go on. So, hubs and I loaded up the kids (in 2 vehicles) and headed to church to celebrate the first Sunday in our new building. I walked slow and whispered a lot. The plan was for me and the little kids to come home after and sleep all afternoon. Hubs and the big kids would attend lunch/homegroup after church, hence the need for 2 vehicles. Stay with me. The drunk part is coming up real soon.<br /><br />So, I walked in the door of church and saw a nurse/friend of mine who had been keeping up with my pain status via Facebook. She asked me how I was. I gave her the look. She said, "Want a Percocet?" I said, "Hand it over." (She will remain nameless to protect her husband's medical license, yadda yadda.) At that point I didn't care - just hand over the drugs people. She could've been a gangter drug dealer from Chicago for all I cared.<br /><br />So, I took it. Shortly thereafter, my voice returned, my pain stopped and I was finally relieved of the curse which had plagued for FOUR DAYS. Thank you Jesus.<br /><br />Then, well............hmmmmmmmmm.............I think maybe I might need to sit down for a sec. <br /><br />Ok, maybe I'll just stay right here all afternoon. <br /><br />No, wait - think I'm going to throw up. Hubs brought sustenance. Didn't help. <br /><br />Service ended, time to pick up kids and drive home. Oh, wait. Ummm.........I'm fairly sure that a DUI in the church parking lot on the first Sunday in our new building would not go over so well with the neighbors. (I'm certain I couldn't have made it to the stop sign.) <br /><br />My face continues to lose all color, it's obvious this little pill was a little too strong for me.<br /><br />Ok, so I attempt to walk the line to the nursery to get my baby, bumping and tripping all the way. Well meaning church members did a double take, "Are you okay?" "Do you need some help?" <br /><br />"No, I'm fine just a little woozy. What'd you put in that latte anyway?" Wish I had a camera to capture those reactions. Oh, yes - I have a camera in my purse. "Where's my purse?"<br /><br />I'm telling you, I might as well have been in a bar at 2 a.m. Takes me back to the good old days.<br /><br />Anyway, my nurse/friend helped me find the children, put on coats, find my purse, and walk to the car. She drove me home (with a brief attempt-to-vomit-stop on the way) and she finally got me safely inside the house. Thank God for her.<br /><br />She so wisely said, "Um, maybe you should just take half of the pill next time."<br /><br />Note to self, P-E-R-C-O-C-E-T not so good for the Kristin.<br /><br />The kids and I did sleep all afternoon. Thank you, Jesus. Only now the woozy-causing-pain medication has worn off. Oh, yes I AM IN PAIN! <br /><br />Where's that other Percocet she gave me?El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-5595955101813674332009-01-14T08:08:00.002-06:002009-01-14T08:26:40.154-06:00A New NormalI am home from the services for Dylan. It was so good to hug Phil & Amy and to sit with my extended family and share their grief. With all the tears and sadness, there was still a breath of hope in the air. We know Dylan is home and fully restored. How do non-Believers deal with a loss this grand without the hope of eternity that only Jesus promises? Phil & Amy will always have a piece of their heart missing, but I pray that in the days to come they can accept their "new normal" from the Prince of Peace. <br /><br />Now that I'm home and my normal life has resumed, it's hard for me to go about my day-to-day without feeling guilty about it. It's like how our country reacted after 9/11. How can we go see a comedic movie when there is so much sadness? How can I watch UK beat Tennessee and be happy about it? (!) What does my mounds of laundry mean compared to the loss Phil & Amy are feeling? A few years ago, after Dylan had been diagnosed, I spoke with Amy about feeling guilty for making a big deal about my problems when hers were so much more grand. She graciously responded, "Just because I have a big problem, doesn't mean God doesn't care about your issues." <br /><br />What is big to God? I need reminded that when He looks at my needs, He doesn't discard me because my neighbor lost her job or because my co-worker had surgery. I think I had convinced myself that the world needed to be on hold because Dylan was sick. But, God is big enough to handle it all. "There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides on the heavens to help you and on the clouds in his majesty." Deuteronomy 33:26El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-38008682660319026522009-01-06T23:14:00.002-06:002009-01-06T23:25:29.893-06:00All Else Fades AwayI haven't been here very much. My life has been filled up with little room for this blog that I love. Someday, there'll be a slot for it, but not now. <br /><br />I just found out that <a href="http://redheadedranting.blogspot.com/2006/08/pray-for-dylan.html#links">my little cousin</a> died this morning. That makes all else fade away. My schedule, my stress, my to-do list means nothing. <br /><br />I am heartbroken. How does a mother get out of bed tomorrow morning when her baby died the day before? How does a brother come to terms with his God when his baby brother suffered for all 5 years of his short life? How does a father hold his family together when the grief is too hard for him to bear?<br /><br />But for the grace of God.<br /><br />God in heaven, YOU ALONE are God. Your mysteries are too complex for me to understand. Scoop up this precious family and hold them so close they can feel Your heartbeat. Give them dreams and visions of Dylan in his heavenly home, and give them strength. God please drown Jackson and Conner with your all-consuming agape love. Give Phil and Amy a supernatural assurance of their "normal" life to come.<br /><br />Help me to see my children as You see them, Lord.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-49424229314915626662008-12-20T08:25:00.002-06:002008-12-20T08:31:18.713-06:00Dumb QuestionsWe've all heard the phrase, "There's no such thing as a dumb question." right? I'm not so sure that's true. Maybe I've been working retail for too many hours in a row, but here's my rant for the week:<br /><br />We sell animated animals, among other games and toys. We have pigs, penguins, cats, dogs, etc. Sometimes I turn the batteries on and let the animals go at it. The pig oinks, the cat meows, and the penguin waddles. <br /><br />I cannot begin to tell you the number of people who walk up to the display, and ask, "So, what does the dog do?"<br /><br />AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!<br /><br />It takes all I have in me not to be rude and say, "She quacks."El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-22787895131014111922008-12-18T11:38:00.002-06:002008-12-18T11:40:23.173-06:00Alive and WellOkay, so I'm here. But, it's December. Everyone else has the same, crazy schedule I do - I've been trying to update this blog for weeks now. I guess it's not going to happen. I did manage to complete our Christmas letter and the kids are helping me put it in the mail today. If you are my friend on Facebook you can go there and check it out. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-75625935187701692162008-12-03T07:55:00.004-06:002008-12-03T08:05:19.279-06:00Snow DaysI don't like snow. I never have. My birthday is in January, and I've always hated my birthday because it always SNOWS on my birthday. My mother tried to encourage me with an igloo birthday cake one year - that didn't help my perspective. I still don't like it. <br /><br />I don't like getting my feet wet, I don't like being cold, I don't like getting all bundled up and then having to go to the bathroom, I don't like dodging other drivers on snow-covered roads, I don't like it.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />I'm not a total pessimist though. </span><br /><br />I do like hot chocolate.<br />I do like days off of school.<br />I do like watching my kids (from the window) play in the snow.<br />I do like the look of it.<br />I just don't want to be in it.<br /><br />The other day, we had a few inches of snow. The kids bounded out bed. "It snowed!" Before I could get my feet pajamas out of bed, they had dug up the snow boots and snow suits from last winter.<br /><br />I parked myself in the living room, and tried to navigate which kid could wear which boot this season, and who could wear which coat. FINALLY, the big kids are able to basically dress themselves so I was left to help Gideon and Rachel. <br /><br />After tripping over and few dozen gloves and scarves, Gideon approached me so I could put on the finishing touches. Gloves on, boots tied, coat zipped..."Mom, can I go now?" Nope. We still need a hat. <br /><br />I put the hat on and 4-year-old-Gideon, hot with sweat, looked up at me and said, "This is ridiculous."<br /><br />I couldn't agree more.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-83756072037862905552008-11-14T20:31:00.003-06:002009-01-06T23:31:39.248-06:00DisciplineToday John and I had a few moments in the car together alone. Perfect chance for mature, relationship-building conversations. So, I asked, "John, what do you want to be when you grow up?" <br /><br />He said, "A police officer!" (I was a little shocked, because normally he says he wants to be a daddy.)<br /><br />I said, "That is a great job! Why do you want to be a police officer?"<br /><br />He said, "So when my kids disobey I can say, 'Watch out or I'll <span style="font-style:italic;">TAZE<span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span> YA!'"<br /><br />Clearly we need to revise our take on discipline in this house.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-72752193532538830662008-11-13T19:30:00.005-06:002008-11-13T23:48:37.047-06:00SinI hate what sin does. It steals, lies, covers up, deceives, and hurts. I love what Jesus does. He heals, restores, promises and delivers. But I spend more time trying to categorize the sin, that I forget to praise the Forgiver. <br /><br />I recently found out (again) about a close friend who is choosing to leave his wife and family. This nonsense can only be explained as sin, and as such I will never understand it. <br /><br />Once, when I was acting like judge and jury my mother answered my judgmental, legalistic pride with this question: "Why are you surprised when sinners sin?" <br /><br />I don't know! But, I am! <br /><br />I expect more from myself, and I expect it from you too. Am I wrong?El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-52145943454058073942008-10-26T08:44:00.003-05:002008-10-26T09:03:24.695-05:00Mr. MomHe's come a long way baby. After 2 days of work and a full weekend of activities, I looked at hubs and said, "I'm really proud of you." The shock on his face stung a little. Guess I need to be more forthcoming with those <a href="http://www.fivelovelanguages.com/learn.html">words of affirmation.</a> Anyway...back in the day when we were young and peppy and had only 2 or 3 kids hubs would often say, "Hey, let's go swimming!" or "Wanna load the bikes and go to the trail?" or "Let's take the kids fishing." So, I (me, not him) would load up all the stuff and we'd go. Then, that adventure would turn into a stop at a restaurant, plus a stop at Home Depot for a thing or 2, plus drop by the park to let the kids play plus...oh, you get the idea. After a few of these stunts, I had learned to be prepared and I probably had enough diapers and changes of clothes to <span style="font-weight:bold;">keep the kids in tact;</span> but still. <br /><br />Two more kids and a few more wrinkles, and he's a new man. (Well, not entirely. I still believe he's ADHD and I count him as one of my kids, but....) THIS WEEK he was on his own for 3 nights in a row while I was working. He had grand plans to add to the already busy schedule the kids had. I had given him strict instructions to pick Ruth up from here, drop Peter off there; but I knew he had a sneaky plan to squeeze a few of his destinations in as well. But, (drumroll, please!) he didn't follow through! Now that's <span style="font-style:italic;">MY</span> LOVE LANGUAGE! Show me a man who can say no, prioritize AND empty the dishwasher and I'll show you a happy wife.<br /><br />He has come a long way.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-63159216341889591322008-10-24T00:31:00.007-05:002008-10-27T16:06:55.103-05:00Working MomHome from our first day of business. Our store opened today and no catastrophes. Baby steps, people. I am so pleased with the nice lady we hired to work for us full-time. I pray she stays with us for the duration so I can still be Mommy during the day. I went to a real job tonight for the first time since 1998. So, today went like this:<br /><br />get up<br />iron clothes for hubs and me<br />wake up four kids before bday boy wakes up<br />wake up bday boy<br />celebrate Gideon's bday (cookie cake for breakfast, yum!)<br />sent hubs off to work, hugs/kisses/pray - cya!<br />set up desks for homeschool<br />warn kids homeschool starts in 5 minutes<br />check email<br />start kids on homeschool (15 minutes late)<br />change diapers<br />put cute, new outfit on Rachel<br />play with Gideon and his bday toys<br />change out laundry (laundry day is lasting all week!)<br />check on kids in homeschool<br />run toward the screams, Rachel is covered in milk (she grabbed a cup off the table)<br />paper towels, wet wipes, clothes off, milk out of arms reach, another new outfit (not so cute)<br />try not to cry over spilled milk<br />get Gideon started on puzzles/coloring<br />put Rachel down for nap<br />help kids with homeschool<br />make phone calls<br />answer phone calls<br />check email<br />carry laundry around the house, act like I know where I'm going<br />check on kids in homeschool<br />get Rachel up from nap<br />hubs called - wants to meet us for lunch so I can check on store opening<br />scurry: diaper changed, diaper bag loaded, socks on, OTD!<br />make phone calls on the way to lunch<br />hubs and I do the switch-a-roo<br />drive to store, check on inventory and new employee<br />hubs and I switch-a-roo again<br />stop at gas station (9 cents off per galloon - woo hoo!)<br />stop at Home Depot - have to buy a fire extinguisher for store, who knew?<br />drive home, sing songs in car and smile while you are at it!<br />put Rachel down for nap<br />help Gideon find all his bday toys<br />help homeschoolers finish their work<br />answer phone calls<br />check email<br />find a replacement babysitter for this afternoon - original broke her finger! (my kids were no where around ; )<br />think about supper<br />load van w/ stuff for my first night of work<br />get Rachel up from nap<br />load up van and pick up sitter<br />make phone calls, play peek-a-boo w/ Rachel<br />smile while Gideon lets Rachel play "This Little Piggy" w/ his feet!<br />give new sitter instructions on taming the masses<br />drive to WAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRRKKKKKKKKKKKK!<br />listen to MY MUSIC on the radio on the way ; )<br />stop off and buy a bday gift for Ruth's friend's party tomorrow<br />arrive at work!<br />thank new employee and send her on her way<br />put on my apron and get to WORK!<br />smile, sell, rearrange, eat a banana, restock, read, smile, rearrange, sell<br />store closes: rearrange, restock, scan inventory, close register, move boxes, sweat<br />make night deposit<br />drive home, listen to MY MUSIC <br />REAR HATCH AJAR - <br />stop in the middle of the highway and close the trunk <br />dust the rust off my brain<br />walk in the door, do a few dishes<br />check email<br />write blog<br />hubs says, time for bed!<br />nighty night<br />uh-who's been sleeping in my bed?<br />move Gideon and Rachel to their own bed<br />now,<br />nighty - night<br /><br />*<a href="http://redheadedranting.blogspot.com/2007/09/names-for-fab-five.html#links">children's names changed</a> to protect the innocentEl Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-80667568592317365502008-10-23T09:08:00.004-05:002008-10-24T11:54:44.033-05:00FOUR!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqwfS5trXPPMqff7-8FKxPQVU3T6nZqFfgqI0sVDvOdhra04oO5p927p8rac5gqdtQptyeT0Jo43pG0IBQSpTxS1kdDzc41uBVqm3DDXmgNfX1GpufaHSK3meWJosbARjxq0t/s1600-h/Seth+at+camp.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 166px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqwfS5trXPPMqff7-8FKxPQVU3T6nZqFfgqI0sVDvOdhra04oO5p927p8rac5gqdtQptyeT0Jo43pG0IBQSpTxS1kdDzc41uBVqm3DDXmgNfX1GpufaHSK3meWJosbARjxq0t/s200/Seth+at+camp.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260359093940001314" /></a><br />We survivied Gideon's third year! Four kids down and one to go. Gideon is four today. Four is fun: three, not so much. This morning, Gideon has already entertained us with his mispronunciations: "Mom, can you help me put on these dump trucks" (He meant nunchucks.) "Mom, can I eat a piece of ticklish?" (He meant licorice.) "Mom, my heart is bumping." (He meant his heart was beating fast.) I could eat him up!<br /><br />Gideon: Thank you for making us smile everyday. Thank you for offering us your "super powers" which include the best hugs and grins in the world. Thank you for transforming Peter into an over-protective softie. Thank you for telling me you love me. I love you too, Super Kid.<br /><br />*kids' blog names are not <a href="http://redheadedranting.blogspot.com/2007/09/names-for-fab-five.html#links">real names</a>El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-65554255342355980212008-10-20T23:30:00.002-05:002008-10-20T23:36:47.687-05:00Oh My StarsOk, so I'm old. We have had a crazy week (yes, it's still Monday) and it's not going to slow down. Bob got about 1 hour of sleep in the last 24 hours and he's still up, working. I can't sleep without him in the house, so I'm no good right now either. So, why am I not in bed NOW? Um, cuz he's not in the house! Can't do it. Ugh. I. need. sleep. now. After this crazy week, we'll be all set up for our new business that I was so excited about last week. Now, I'm not so sure it's worth it. In the last 11 years of my mommy-hood I have become so lazy. Sure, I get all the stuff done for the kids that I need to - but to actually GET UP OFF MY BUTT and work. Wow. I do not know how you working moms do it. People ask me all the time, "How do you do it?" Me! How about YOU?! I know it'll be a nice break to work outside the home, but Oh My Stars my body is not used to this. I'm going to try to convince myself that Bob is somewhere close so I can fall asleep. Maybe my old friend, Nyquil can help ; )El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-72481370818393083382008-10-19T21:21:00.003-05:002008-10-19T21:24:52.080-05:00Are We Really Opposed to SocialismOne reason I support conservative politics, is because I oppose socialist politics. As you know, I often read Spunky and once again, she has me thinking. I know in posting the following quote from her that I will ruffle the feathers of some of my readers. I would love to read comments from those readers, especially. Here it is:<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><blockquote>But I really do wonder how mad or fearful either one really is. Don't get me wrong, I see socialism as just as just as incidious as they do, but I question whether most in this nation are really afraid of government controlling their personal lives.<br /><br />After all, most Americans still educate their children in govenrment controlled schools, transported in government controlled buses, and are fed government controlled lunches at noon. Isn't this just socialism in the worst form?</blockquote></span><br /><br />If you typically vote Republican and oppose socialist values (Marxism) how do you reconcile the issue of supporting government-run schools?El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-73754231641505886062008-10-16T15:16:00.003-05:002008-10-16T15:26:11.460-05:00She's A Keeper<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9t5hK9JuGqtCa1XZUwDiEXTiSgYtJ0-YbP4aApH-wKFrfmNZSlkfVDvIOZsN61njlyY6IeWD4ApKa0kyWL5-Nm_slymJRzVdJGPa4ZBYNOOS_s7KNfcVt1BEEdwIAoYTssUHF/s1600-h/004.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9t5hK9JuGqtCa1XZUwDiEXTiSgYtJ0-YbP4aApH-wKFrfmNZSlkfVDvIOZsN61njlyY6IeWD4ApKa0kyWL5-Nm_slymJRzVdJGPa4ZBYNOOS_s7KNfcVt1BEEdwIAoYTssUHF/s200/004.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257849856927097634" /></a><br />My baby is one. Every day I look at her and feel like it was only yesterday that we brought her home from the hospital. Isn't that how all parents feel though? This parenting journey has been so rewarding; but WOW is it fast! I am seeing my children through different eyes lately because I am going back to work next week. <br />Miss Rachel has been such a ray of sunshine in our house, and I am going to miss all the little moments of sunshine that happen while I am away. <br /><br />Don't get me wrong - I am excited about earning an income and getting back into the work thing; but my heart lies with my children, and no matter how many years pass since the day I bring them home from the hospital - it always will.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-72063459959726809932008-10-12T23:37:00.003-05:002008-10-12T23:39:44.855-05:00Seriously, I'm really here.I'm still here. I am just enjoying Facebook and reading friends' blogs more than posting right now. But, I have some semi-real-cyber friends who have been going through tough times, and they are in my prayers. I have updated my Blog List to reflect the "friends" I read on a daily basis. Check them out.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-57523723548310746022008-10-03T09:30:00.004-05:002008-10-03T11:03:00.494-05:00They Love Their SarahLast night I attended a Debate Watching Party in St. Louis. The arena was filled with about 11,000 Palin admirers and 4 hecklers who sang, prayed, listened and cheered. <br /><br />In case you won't read all my ramblings, let me put my concluding statement first.<br />The bottom line is: Sen. Biden looks like a seedy-politican, and Sarah Palin looks like my friend.<br /><br />Here are my notes as the evening began...<br />We heard from Missouri politicans and were entertained by some good ragtime piano playing. Former St. Louis Cardinals player, Andy Bettis motivated the crowd, then a local pastor led us in prayer for the candidates and our nation. <br /><br />As the debate began, a couple of statements made by Biden confused me. I can only wonder, did the Democrats in the other building support these remarks? If so, the fundamental differences between the left and the right could never be more clear than now. Referring to the financial crises, Biden said we needed to scale back and prevent "Wall Street from running wild." (regulation? deregulation? what does this mean?) Also, Sen. Biden said we need to begin to treat "taxpayers as investors." This comment didn't sit well with the crowd. If that's so then why the 850 billion bailout? Does he mean we get to decide how our tax money is being spent, or does he mean we need to turn it all over to the government and let the financial committees put our money in the funds they think are best?<br /><br />Palin's turn: As I am listening to her speak about traditional American values, I can only wonder: Why don't Democrats love her? She supports the working class, she works to fight corruption, and she is opposed to big corporate spending. At the end of the debate she even said, "Government get out of my way!"<br /><br />As Biden and Palin began to discuss back and forth, it seemed to me like Biden spent way too much time attacking McCain instead of informing us of what Obama would do to make it better. Where's the change?<br /><br />Note to self: honestly, why do we get caught up in which candidate's tax plan is better than the other. When that person is elected, the tax plan that actually passes Congress will look nothing like the one they supported during the campaign. The President is the leader of the Executive branch of this government. Congress legislates. Is Congress really going to go for whatever McCain/Palin propose? Probably not. So, stop spending time on the plans guys - I just want to know about your worldview and your foreign policy. Leave the specifics for the House floor to work out.<br /><br />Ok, back to the debate. Sarah made a few risky remarks. In this age of media scrutiny, she has to watch every word. She mixed up Wall Street with Main Street in one comment, and at one point she called her opponent "Senator O'Biden." This one will come back to haunt her: "I don't believe John McCain has made any promise that he won't be able to to keep." That's not as serious as "Read My Lips" by George Sr., but if the media grabs onto it - it could be bad.<br /><br />The crowd in St. Louis was very disturbed to hear Biden suggest that a remedy for the bankruptcy courts could be to allow judges to adjust principal. Did the Obama camp really approve that notion, or was this a misstep by Biden? A serious question mark hung over the crowd as Biden was tiptoeing around this topic.<br /><br />It sounded to me like Biden and Palin agree on the gay marriage issue. So, can we trust the Obama/Biden campaign when they say they support allowing gay couples to do everything married couples can do legally EXCEPT get married? Sounds like a slippery slope to me. Can the line really be drawn there? Not sure and I would like a more specific answer from Palin.<br /><br />Biden and Palin went back and forth about Iraq. Gov. Palin did a good job defending the surge plan, and questioning Biden's support. However, I would like to have heard her clearly say, "THE REASON MCCAIN OPPOSED SOME OF THE BILLS YOU ARE ACCUSING HIM OF IS BECAUSE OF THE TIMELINE." Biden insists on a timeline for a pullout, Palin understands that it didn't work the first time and you can't put a timeline on progress.<br /><br />As the debate closed, Biden said, "This is the most important election we have ever voted in since 1932!" Oh really. I agree it's important, but I don't think issues such as WWII, Cuba, abortion, the Cold War and terrorism are any less important than the crises we face today.<br /><br />In conclusion: Gov. Palin did a good job. Sen. Biden did a good job. I think there were probably a few undecided who made up their mind last night. I was proud of the way she handled issues that she is not expert on, and I was honored to be there to hear her speak and to see her beautiful family.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-9006974849983457582008-09-30T15:59:00.006-05:002008-10-03T00:45:37.279-05:00Debate PartyI know I said this wasn't going to become a political blog, but hey I HAVE NEWS TO SHARE! <br /><br />I will be attending a DEBATE WATCHING PARTY this Thursday evening here in St. Louis. The much-anticipated Biden/Palin debate will be held on the Washington University campus. A few friends, and I will be in an arena near the debate to await Gov. Palin's arrival and remarks following the debate. I hope to live blog about it (assuming I can get this laptop to go along with my plan.)<br /><br />What would you ask Gov. Palin if you were sitting across from her?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">UPDATE:</span> I just returned from the event, and those of us who attended were not disappointed. It was a good debate, and we were able to hear Gov. Palin speak. She arrived at the arena about 45 minutes following the debate, and the crowd was electrified. I will post more thoughts after I sleep for a few hours. <br /><br />*El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-63919753781585928212008-09-21T13:38:00.003-05:002008-09-21T13:57:15.590-05:00Birth Control Is One Of ThemThings I am passionate about:<br />Jesus<br />my family<br />friendships that go below the surface<br />motherhood<br />conservative politics<br />education<br />living on earth in a way to store up treasures in heaven<br />obedience<br />not accepting the status quo<br /><br />My "not accepting the status quo" attitude has had both positive and negative affects on my life. For example, when I was young I refused to watch movies such as <span style="font-style:italic;">The Sound of Music</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Bambi</span> and <span style="font-style:italic;">Gone With The Wind</span> simply because everyone else had seen it and everyone I knew told me I <span style="font-style:italic;">had</span> to see it. I thought, "I'll show you! I can go through my whole life without watching it and function just fine thank you." Well, <span style="font-weight:bold;">then I grew up</span> and realized that the reason everyone watched those movies is because they are GREAT and it is a necessary part of the American culture in which I live. (I've always been a stubborn, red-head.) <br /><br />So now, the "not accepting the status quo" attitude I possess takes a more introspective, spiritual tone in my life. Birth control falls in that category. Within the last 15 years, my thoughts on birth control have shifted dramatically (and that is an understatement.) Those thoughts might still be shifting, but that's part of my passion: to continue to think and change in a way that <span style="font-weight:bold;">pleases the Lord.</span><br /><br /><a href="http://bythissign.blogspot.com">My former pastor</a> has turned me on to a new (to me) Christian magazine that is different; and therefore, worth my time in reading. Today I read <a href="http://www.salvomag.com/new/articles/salvo6/6brown.php">this</a>, and here in an excerpt. I love reading people who express my views in a more intelligent format than I am able.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><blockquote>Beneath all the risks and statistics, the real questions we each must face are these: Will we treat reproductive technology as something to be used in accord with moral principles or as a way around them, in a fruitless attempt to undo the consequences of our actions? Will we hold it subordinate to virtue or as a substitute for it? And most fundamentally, will we choose to treat our fertility as a disease or a gift—our sweet and screaming children as a threat or a blessing? •</blockquote></span><br /><br />What seems like a simple, normal, everyday decision that has no consequences: taking the pill - can have drastic repercussions. It is my desire that women will go beyond the status quo and read, think and talk about options with their spouse, doctor and oh, I don't know maybe the LORD before diving into the birth control pool. <br /><br />Check out <a href="http://salvomag.com">Salvo</a> for more.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-92093641693880913762008-09-18T14:42:00.002-05:002008-09-18T14:57:54.674-05:00Obsessed I AmSo as to not make this a political blog, I thought I'd post something completely opposite. Completely unlike me. This time of the year I can often be found plunked in front of the television for hours on end. To watch the political debates? No. Not so noble. Instead, I am admitting my obsession for .....<br /><br />the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.<br /><br />Yep, the season of tryouts has ended and soon the recap will make it's way into my living room. <a href="http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/dallas_cowboys_cheerleaders_making_the_team_3/142904/episode.jhtml">The show</a> should be R-rated, but does that stop me? Nope. I don't know what it is, but I am seriously obsessed.<br /><br />There, I said it - now you know my little, dark secret. <br /><br />It must take me back to my days as a cheerleader, and as a small child when my goal in life was to become a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. Back in the day that was probably a good role model for a child. The women who cheer for the Cowboys today are well-rounded and intelligent; but the level of immodesty has skyrocketed. <br /><br />Does that stop me? Nope. I will tune in to every episode, and watch it multiple times. I will cry during the final episode and I will not be able to explain to my husband why I am so enthralled with this show. I guess I'm another victim of reality tv. Thank you CMT for airing the next season, and thank you for the marathon episodes, and thank you for contributing to about 20 hours of veg out time for me. <br /><br />I sense a tv fast coming in January.<br /><br />Go Cowboys!El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-38576467879986195852008-09-15T23:39:00.000-05:002008-09-15T23:41:26.270-05:00Guess Who?This is from <a href="http://kingsmeadow.com/blogger.html">George Grant</a>.<br /><br />Can you guess who I am?<br /><br />I am not yet 45 years old but already I have taken the nation by storm.<br /><br />I am known for my avid love of the outdoors.<br /><br />I hunt, fish, hike, and camp whenever I possibly can.<br /><br />I have made my mark in politics as an unlikely Republican reformer. <br /><br />Of course, I have had to take on the Republican Party establishment.<br /><br />Not that the Democrats are too fond of me either.<br /><br />I have a large, happy, but rather rambunctious family. <br /><br />I have been governor of my large northern state for less than two years.<br /><br />Nevertheless, I was the surprise pick to be the vice presidential candidate in a crucial national election. <br /><br />Have you ever heard of me? <br /><br />Surely you have. I am Teddy Roosevelt.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-1403463118274126402008-09-05T22:36:00.003-05:002008-09-05T22:38:29.793-05:00What's The Deal?Why is it ok to ask Sarah Palin if she has enough time to be a mother of 5 and the Vice-President, but they don't ask Obama if he has enough time to be a father of 2 and the President?El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-48201108963891311092008-09-02T07:59:00.003-05:002008-09-02T08:03:59.689-05:00Goes Both WaysYes, I heard the news yesterday that Gov. Palin's teenage daughter is pregnant. There are about a zillion different sides to this issue, and about that many people will hop on one bandwagon or another. <br /><br />I like how <a href="http://spunkyhomeschool.blogspot.com">Spunky</a> put it...<br /><br /><em>"Palin has just announced that their daughter, Bristol, is pregnant. This discredits some false allegations from the weekend and perhaps explains Palin's decision to homeschool.<br /><br /><blockquote>Mrs. Palin and her husband Todd said in a statement: <br />"Bristol and the young man she will marry are going to realise very quickly the difficulties of raising a child, which is why they will have the love and support of our entire family."</blockquote><br /><br />Good for them. I'm proud of the Palins and their daughter, Bristol, for choosing life and accepting their unborn baby as a blessing <strong>not a "punishment." </strong><br /><br />"Look, I got two daughters - 9 years old and 6 years old,” [Obama] said. "I am going to teach them first about values and morals, but if they make a mistake, I don’t want them punished with a baby.<br /><br />The contrast couldn't get any more clear."</em><br /><br />I still love her even if her daughter made a mistake. I would hope my support system would do the same for me.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32205863.post-58258183267499085852008-08-29T12:54:00.004-05:002008-08-29T16:10:43.736-05:00A Shot In The ArmI am so excited my fingers are flying off the keyboard! This political season has really had me in a funk. After all the exciting possibilities from both the Democratic and Republican primaries, I was a little disappointed that John McCain was up against Barak Obama. It seemed like an uphill battle. Then add in the historic, cultural significance of a black American running for the Presidency... Obama's presidential race is good for this country. But, still - I am conservative and I was starting to think my vote would be a shot in the dark.<br /><br />Until today.<br /><br />I am so excited about John McCain's Veep choice I could bust. This was one of his most brilliant moves to date and I just want to hug the advisors who steered him in this direction, and I want to hug Palin's husband for giving his family over to the country for (possibly) the next four years.<br /><br />After Hilary's exit from the Presidential race, <strong>McCain's best bet </strong>to catapult his campaign was to choose a woman VP. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Palin">THIS</a> choice is even better! I have followed Governor Palin's career for the last few years, and at times wish I lived in Alaska just to volunteer for her. What a great example. I think this country just might be ready for not only a black president, but a female one as well. This is history folks.<br /><br />Congratulations Mr. McCain, and I pray that your VP keeps her values as steady as they are now before the Washington engine runs her over.El Shaddai Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875183231117805781noreply@blogger.com1