Christmas Adventures and Laughter

Ahhh....the sweets sounds of Christmas break! What are those sounds you ask? In our house, it’s popcorn popping, games being played, the sound of pucks sliding across the ice, Christmas music, laughter, LOTS of food, and being together. (It’s also the munch of WAY too much sugar!)

We’ve enjoyed our time with Aunt Jen this week, and we were able to go on a special adventure with her this past week. Jen arrived at our house on Sunday evening. Our children were very excited to have Aunt Jen with them this week. We spent Monday playing games together, doing some grocery shopping, wrapping gifts, and getting ready for Christmas. Roger had to work on Monday and Tuesday, so that was a bit of a bummer, but we just made the most of our evening time together.

Tuesday was Christmas Eve, and the kids were excited! Hannah and josh came down for part of the day, and we went bowling together. I had been giving a gift certificate for the bowling place, and it was a great time to use it. We surely miss Roger when he’s not able to join us for fun events, but we were thankful to enjoy time with Hannah, Josh and Jen. The bowling place has candlepin bowling which uses a smaller ball and smaller pins than regular bowling. After bowling, we came home to cook up food for our Christmas Eve dinner. Roger was able to be home around four pm, so we were able  to enjoy dinner together before the Christmas Eve service. I always look forward to the Christmas Eve service as it sets the tone for the Christmas gatherings happening in the evening and on Christmas Day. I had thought that Wyatt and Garett were going to do their piano pieces for the Christmas Eve service, but there was some confusion so that wasn’t the plan. It felt a little scrambled at first, but it was all brought together by the grace of God. The children’s choir sang, and then the older kids played on the xylophone chimes. Each child has a chime and a stick to hit the chime with. All the children got lined up, and I was about to count them off to start, when I noticed that Wyatt was quietly laughing. Travis had managed to get his xylophone stick stuck in his pants! He had pants that tie on, and he had managed to get the xylophone stick stuck in one of the loops! He was all flustered, and he couldn’t figure out how to get it unstuck. His brothers were having a hard time holding their laughter in, and my friend Allison and I were also trying to hold in our laughter! Oh the memory! Travis managed to get the xylophone stick unstuck, and the rest of the song went off without a hitch! There was a good turnout of people for the service, and there is something beautiful and special about the Christmas Eve service. I am so thankful that it’s not all about the baby who came, but about the Savior Who came to redeem the world! What a gift!

We opened up our Christmas presents on Christmas Eve, as we were headed to Hannah’s on Christmas Day. Emma was so excited about opening gifts, and she announced loudly after the church service that she had taken a nap during church so that she wouldn’t be grouchy opening presents! The kids had gotten gifts for each other at the Christmas shops they had gone to, and I always love seeing what they’ve picked out! Emma opened up a soft blanket from Wyatt, to which Garett replied, “I’m glad you like it, there’s plenty more where that came from!” He had picked out the exact same blanket for Emma! Emma didn’t mind having two blankets! The funniest present was the gift that Emma picked out for Chandler. She knows that Chandler enjoys reading, so she picked him out some books at the Christmas shop. She was so excited for Chandler to open them, and Chandler’s expression was quite hilarious! Emma had gifted him with three inspirational Christian romance novels!! Chandler did very well at saying thank you, but his expression was quite humorous! Emma can’t quite read, so she just picked out books that she liked the covers to!

We spent Christmas Day with Hannah and Josh enjoying more delicious food, fun games, and fellowship together. The kids were a bit tired as it had been a late night the night before and they were all up early to play with their Christmas gifts.  We came home in the late afternoon, and we all went ice skating for a bit! All the kids are better skaters than I am, but my excuse is that I have to wear skates that don’t fit properly! Chandler currently wears my skates, but some day I might get my skates back!It was fun to get on the ice with the kids, but wow....we were all happy to go to bed early!


Jen’s Christmas gift to the kids was an adventure! She had purchased tickets to a trampoline park as well as an overnight stay at a hotel with a pool! The kids were thrilled! Roger had to work on Thursday and Friday, but Jen and I headed down to Portland on Thursday morning with all the kids. I thought the trampoline park would be very busy the day after Christmas, but it actually wasn’t too bad at all! We were there right when they opened at ten, and the kids jumped and played until about two pm. Then we headed to Sam’s Club to feed them a snack before heading to the hotel for swimming! The hotel we stayed at had an outdoor heated pool, and I even got in the pool...so it was warm! The kids swam for a few hours, before getting out to have supper. The kids were excited to have dinner at Olive Garden since that’s where we had gift cards to eat. The last time the kids ate at Olive Garden was with Jen last Christmas, so they were excited to have dinner there again. And after they ate, they were tired! Emma and Travis about fell asleep at the dinner table, and they were happy to climb into bed at the hotel. Chandler told me that he was having a lot of fun on this adventure, but he sure did miss Dad. I’m glad that the kids have the opportunity to enjoy these adventures also, but I surely miss Roger when he’s not along too!

We headed home on Friday morning after another swim! After thirty six plus hours of activities, it was a quiet ride home! The boys were happy to get home and check on their ice skating rink. They shoveled it off to get ready to resurface it, so that they can use it some more. On Friday evening we joined Roger at work to have pizza with his boss and wife. The kids had gifts that they had picked out for Kevin and Terri, and Emma was happy to help them both open their gifts. I’m so thankful for Kevin and Terri and their love for our kiddos. They told the kids that their Christmas gift was not wrappable. They have gifted our children with an evening of snow tubing, dinner, and an overnight at a hotel for sometime in January or February! Our kids are so very excited about this adventure, and I am looking forward to it also. The months of January, February and March can get to be a bit long, so this will give us all something to look forward to!

We are wrapping up our last few days of Christmas break as we prepare to go back to school on Thursday. I am so not ready yet! It’s been a good break. I’ve spent a few days not feeling great, but it’s been a good time to slow down and treasure our time together. Roger has been busy, but that comes with the territory of being the second man in charge....you get to fill in any spots in the schedule that are short on people. I’m thankful for this Christmas season, and I hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends.

We love you all,
Sarah

BREAK! And an Island Christmas Party!

Oh Praise Jesus! Christmas break is here! It was a week FULL of excitement and activities as we dove Into the last week of school before Christmas break. Between making food for class parties, helping with teacher Christmas gifts and notes, working in the preschool, and trying to get ready for our Christmas, it was a full week!

Every year our school has a Christmas gift “shop” where students from our elementary classes can come and “shop” for others. They can shop for up to five people, and it costs $1.00 to shop for each person. It’s a fun event for the students, and I love to see what they pick out for others. Because we run our Christmas shop on a budget (read-stuff given to us or found on great clearance) , we sometimes end up with some very random items for gifts. The kindergarteners are hilarious to watch as they make decisions about what their parents would like! Let’s see...a small decorative bird house for a little brother (the kind of birdhouse that goes in a garden pot); another child desperately wanted to get bubblegum toothpaste for their daddy! I mean, I try to help, but this is their opportunity to shop for others! I just hope the ones opening the gifts find joy in the effort to think of them and not in what the gift might be! Personally, I always enjoy the things that my kids pick out for me. I’ll never forget when Garett picked out a Christmas present for my mom during his preschool years. He picked out a ginormous wine goblet! My mom doesn’t even drink! It was so fun! Anyways, that’s what I did on Monday afternoon. We had several older ladies from our church that came to help wrap gifts for the students, so that all their packages could go home wrapped.

On Tuesday afternoon, my friend, Allison and I were able to squeeze in an afternoon together. We went to the discount grocery store so that we could find treats for our kids stockings! I can buy a lot more fun food items for our kids if the packaging is damaged or the food is slightly expired. Cheaper food...yes, please! It was a fun afternoon with Allison, and one of the things I’ve missed since taking on the preschool position is time with her. I’m thankful for lots of laughter! We went into one clothing store that had a lot of sweaters and coats as well as Christmas decorations and household items. I was browsing the sweaters and trying some of them on. I found this cape sweater in gray that looked quite nice, as I was slipping it off the hanger, I realized that I was about to try on the tree skirt!! Oh my word! The fancy tree skirts were all on hangers and the rack was not too far from the clothes. I hadn’t noticed that I was now looking at Christmas decorations, and I was going to try on a tree skirt! Don’t mind the crazy lady trying on the tree skirts! I quickly replaced the tree skirt and walked away! Ha ha!

After school on Wednesday, I took all the kids out to find Roger at his job. We needed to get our Christmas picture taken, and time is running out! Roger gets home after dark, so I decided to bring the kids to him. We found one of the pilots to take our family picture, and Chandler took the one of Roger and I. They aren’t fancy pictures, but we did it! And I found a Groupon for staples holiday cards. I made them into a New Years greeting card, since I know I won’t get them all mailed out before Christmas! We put together Christmas gifts for the teachers on Wednesday night. Having five kids in a small Christian school means that every teacher gets a gift from the Robertson family! Each gift is different depending on the teacher and how interested the children are in helping to put together a gift. Our gifts are never crazily awesome (at least not in my opinion) but after being the teachers aide this year, I realize what a blessing just a simple card or gift can be. Teachers don’t teach because of the gifts, but what an encouragement a simple card or gift can be in the life of a teacher! Anyways, Roger put the kids to bed and I finished up the teacher gifts. We are so very thankful for each teacher and staff member in our school. God has continually provided for our children’s education, and I just am in absolute awe of His goodness!

Friday was party day for all the classes! I did not feel very “merry and bright” on Friday morning as I tried to help the kids gather up all their stuff needed for their class parties, tried to remember the things I needed to remember, and try not to forget a child! Rogers car decided not to work on Friday morning, so I took Roger to work. I totally did not mind, but it did mean that the morning was a bit more rushed! However, we straggled into school early, and by the time school started, everything seemed much smoother! I know that part of the problem is the sugar overload that our children are on. It’s like a buzz! I bagged up a bunch of cookies and other treats and put them in the freezer for another day. I made salad, green peas, and fresh berry salad for supper one night, and the kids gobbled it all right up. I know that our bodies crave healthy food! After school on Friday, I took the  kids caroling. We stopped at a few homes of older folks in our church, and sang a few songs to them.  The kids weren’t exactly delighted to go, but once we got going, they did a great job. They were certainly a blessing to me, just hearing them sing carols to the older folks!

I am certainly not ready for Christmas, but I do enjoy this time of year. I have a great advent devotional book that I am reading, and children certainly add excitement to the holiday! My sister, Jen, is coming from South Dakota for a few days, so we are looking forward to having her. We spent some time on Saturday getting ready for her, and then we took a plane out to Matinicus island for a Christmas party out there in the afternoon. It was such a special time as a family to fly out there, walk down the snow covered road to the party, enjoy wonderful food, visit with friends, and walk back in the dark laughing and talking together. It was a special memory that I will forever treasure. I hope our children will treasure the memory also. As we walked down the road to the party, the kids were running and jumping all over the road. Travis found a broken bathtub beside the road. He asked me to take his picture in it. He said,”It’s the best kind of bathtub...a broken one!” Oh dear! That kid!

Roger and I spent a long time talking about how the snow covered dirt roads, darkness, and the feeling of community reminded us so much of our Christmas in Alaska in 2012. Time flies by! I’m hoping that our children will remember these memories as well. I don’t remember very many presents that I received from my childhood, but I do remember delicious food, eating in the living room, Christmas caroling, and ice skating memories! Family is important. And we are working hard to teach our children that life is not about “stuff”, but rather it is about living our lives for the glory of God.

I hope that you all are looking forward to making some special memories with your families this Christmas season. We have so much to rejoice in this Christmas, but the most important reason for rejoicing is that Jesus is Lord! He didn’t stay a baby, but rather became a man who would bear the sins of the world on the cross. He died for my sins and yours, and he rose again. Now that’s a reason to rejoice! Merry Christmas!

Christmas Program Delights!

“It was the week of the Christmas program, and all through the night the music teacher was dreaming, scheming, praying and working on so many things!”

Oh what a week it was! To God be the Glory great things He hath done! (That’s a great song too!) I  started off the week with a special invitation to a ladies candlelight Christmas dessert at a local church. My friend, Sharon, invited me to join her at her table for the special evening. It was a delightful evening of sweet fellowship, delicious dessert, and a festive atmosphere. It was a great start to my week. I wasn’t sure I wanted to go by the time 6:00pm rolled around on Monday evening, but I’m so glad I did. The speaker spoke on how Jesus is the most priceless gift, the most precious gift,
the most permanent gift, the most perfect gift (and one more “p” that I can’t remember at the moment!). She gave Scripture passages and it was truly a special evening to reflect on the specialness
 of the season. I’m thankful I had the opportunity to go.

Honestly, the rest of the week passed by mostly in a blur! Between music rehearsals, decorating, putting the program together, working, and being a wife and mom, I’m not really sure what I did on what day! Roger was a tremendous support throughout this whole preparation and work for the Christmas program. We had some interesting supper meals this week including popcorn with cheese and sausage (from my parents in Wisconsin!) Our kids didn’t complain though, and they were happy. I know the week was a bit crazy for them too, as I probably drove them a bit crazy with constant reminders, asking if they had seen something, would someone please fold the laundry!, and where are moms shoes? Oh yes, it was a crazy week!

On Thursday evening our kids, along with a few others, had the opportunity to sing at a Christmas chapel service at an old church building. This is our third year of going, and it’s always a special time to sit in a older building and sing the carols of Christmas. Our kids as well as a few others from the school sang “Away in a Manger” and played the chimes. Travis was very, very tired and he kept on missing his notes. I finally gave him a different chime and that seemed to help. Except when it was time to play the chimes, I think Travis forgot altogether which note was his! We had a fairly dramatic pause in the song, before we just kept on going. Oh well, the people seemed to enjoy it anyways! Of course, on the way home, Chandler asked Travis what was the matter with him. Travis had no idea what Chandler was talking about so Wyatt informed him that he had missed all of his notes in the song. Travis insisted that he had played his chime, and Wyatt announced, “yeah, at the WRONG time!” One things for sure...his brothers will straighten him out!” It was a lovely service, but my favorite part was the message given. The pastor didn’t preach for long, but wow the plan of salvation was clearly given! I love the fact that people could not have missed that Christmas is not just about baby Jesus, but about the fact that Jesus came to die for us. Garett made the comment on the way home that the preacher was easy to follow and that people could understand that they needed to ask Jesus into their hearts. (I love the fact that he was listening)

Friday morning found us at the school early! Chandler climbed up into the attic to search for some missing shepherd staffs, and he found them! The preschoolers have been working on memorizing Luke 2: 8-20 for their part in the Christmas program. They have done a great job of memorizing it. I’m so thankful for each teacher in our school that gave so sacrificially of their class time to help bring the Christmas program together. From the preschool teacher to the junior high teacher, each teacher supported the  music program, the teacher and the students. By the time one o’clock came around, we were as ready as we were going to be! The students did a great job at their matinee performance, and some worked hard to overcome their nervousness. I had given a solo part to one of the junior high girls, and although she was nervous, she did it! I’m hoping and praying that these music programs can be the start of some of these students using their God given talents and gifts. The staff gave me a special card with a gift card to a restaurant and a massage! I am very much looking
 forward to that! I also received a beautiful bouquet of flowers from the school and an arrangement of flowers from the parents group. One of my friends, gave me a coffee mug and an ornament. I am so very, very blessed. I received a hand written note from one of the students that I will forever treasure. While I will enjoy the cup and the Dunkin Donuts gift card that she and he brother (along with mom and dad) gave to me, I will always remember that sweet and thoughtful handwritten note to the music teacher. Somehow it made all the long practices, preparation and planning seem to fade away! I was completely blessed.

For the evening performance, the auditorium was very full! Of course, at two minutes before the program was to start, my friend, Allison and I were up on the stage duct taping the garland into place!   That garland had hung in place for most of the week....until two minutes before the performance! Oh, how I’m thankful for friends that pitch in a help with whatever needs doing! The preschoolers did a great job in their recitation and songs. Only one student tripped over his costume, and of course, they all melted the hearts of all the people there. Our pastor was able to close out the program with a clear plan of God’s gift of salvation. The Christmas program is an event where people willingly come out to the church, and often times hearts are more receptive. Since they are coming to see the children and listen to the program, the best message we can bring is the good news that Jesus Saves!

Chandler came down with a headache shortly before the evening performance; a friend messaged me to say her daughter was complaining of a stomach ache; but even with all the opposition from Satan, God still showed Himself to be strong and mighty. Chandler made it through the program, as well as my friends daughter. Chandler went home shortly after the program with Roger as he had a migraine so badly, he was throwing up. I stayed around to help picked up some things, as well as to visit with Rogers boss and wife, and my sister, Hannah. We decided to stick with our Christmas program tradition of Chinese afterwards, so Hannah and I took my four kids over to the Chinese restaurant. The kids were clearly hungry and tired as they pretty much just sat and ate! It was nice to visit with Hannah for a few minutes.


Because of the short space of time between the end of school and the evening performance, we decided not to go home. Allison and I set up a few things for the refreshments that would happen afterwards, and I gathered my thoughts! I had read about a Christmas shop for kids a few days ago on Facebook. A local church was hosting an event where kids would get to shop for others....all free! That had my attention! The event started a four pm, and I figured we could go right away and then be back in plenty of time for the Christmas program. Allison brought her girls along as well, and off we went! We were there a few minutes early, but if we had come any later, we wouldn’t have been able to do it as the line was backed out of the door a few minutes later! The church people were so nice and helpful and told me that kids could shop for their siblings, parents, and grandparents and close family members. They didn’t set a limit on how many people the kids could shop for, but when I told them that we had seven in just our family, they looked surprised! I told our kids they could each shop for five people, and they could pick whomever they wanted to shop for. The kids do all the shopping at this event by themselves while the adults have fellowship in another room. No sadness there! I’m always happy to spend a few minutes  with Allison! The children were very excited with what why picked out, and Allison and I were thrilled to go to an event that we had nothing to do with!   I’m glad we took our children as it added some excitement to the afternoon. And now we have some presents under our tree!

It was a busy and full week, but one with so many blessings that only God could bestow upon us. As we approach the last week of school before break, I would appreciate your prayers. We want to be able to convey to our children the true meaning of Christmas in a way that is special and real to their hearts.

Love,
Sarah

Snow Days, December Memories and HOPE!

A snow day!!! And it was a snow day that made sense even to this Wisconsin girl! We woke up to snow on Tuesday morning that continued all day long. Roger had told me on Monday night that he was fully expecting a snow day on Tuesday, and he’s usually right. The kids were excited about having a snow storm, even though that means they will have to shovel the ice rink. Roger did not have to go to work either today, so it was nice to spend the day at home.

Wyatt and Garett have piano lessons on Monday afternoons, so it’s been close to dark by the time we get home. Since we anticipated a snow day on Tuesday, I called Roger to see about getting a Christmas tree. Our tradition in Wisconsin was to always to to this cute little Christmas tree farm and cut down our own tree, we’d been doing that since our first year of marriage. However, since we’ve moved to Maine, we’ve had trouble finding a local spot to go and cut our open Christmas tree, and one that wouldn’t break the bank. We’ve yet to find a spot, and we wanted to try a Christmas tree farm this year. However, with the coming snow storm, the kids asked when we would be able to get our Christmas tree. We generally put up our tree shortly after Thanksgiving and take it down shortly after Christmas. This year the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is really short! The boys asked if maybe we could just get a tree from a tree lot instead of having to wait until later this week or even next week before getting a tree. I called Roger, who was still at work, but he agreed that it would probably be wise to just go ahead a get a pre cut tree from a tree lot. So after piano lessons, we trotted off to tree to find our Christmas tree. The first tree lot we went to wasn’t open, so we found a different place. Emma decided that the boys could pick out the tree as it was cold and windy! The boys piled out of the van to look over the trees. Chandler is our budget conscious child, so he  immediately asked the man how much did the trees cost! The smallest and cheapest trees were $25.00 and the prices increased from there. The first row of trees were pretty short, as they were about as   tall as I am! We checked the second row of trees, and Garett found one that was a bit taller than he is,  and the tree was $30.00. We didn’t spend a lot of time picking out a tree, as it wasn’t long before we were cold. Thankfully, the man helped Garett tie on the Christmas tree and we headed home. Although it was not the experience we had planned, the kids were happy. I think it’s the first Christmas tree I’ve ever picked out without Roger- what a weird feeling! Emma was happy to help decorate the tree, and while it’s not exactly how I would’ve decorated the tree, it’s a beautiful representation of our children and their ornaments.


We enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner with some friends of ours that invited us to join their family. Allison invited to come along with their family to her mother-in- laws. “Grammie” had about fifteen of her own grandchildren at Thanksgiving dinner, and we added another seven people. Yet, Grammie graciously hosted about thirty people in her home for dinner. We were thankful to be invited to share in their dinner, and we are thankful for their friendship to us. It was a good day, with good fellowship  and delicious food.

We spent our long weekend soaking up time at home. Garett went with Roger to work on Saturday, but for the most part we just stayed around home. Roger was working, so we were not able to get the Christmas tree (but ended up doing it on Monday without him!)  It was nice to get some extra cleaning done around our house as we prepare for Christmas. The kids are excited about Christmas, and they have put together a list of things that they would like to do in December. They enjoy these school days as we get closer to break as they have classroom parties, field trips, and special events. I think Roger and I especially miss our church in Wisconsin this time of year, as our church hosted special parties and get together for adults. I always attended the ladies Christmas party and this time of year is when a new secret sister was chosen for the new year. Roger and I would attend the staff  Christmas party and our Sunday school Christmas party, and I miss those special times of fellowship,   food and Christmas cheer. But that’s neither here nor there, so moving on!  

We are down to the wire with the Christmas program details and both the students and the teacher are ready to be done! But we aren’t done yet, so as I told my students, we must “finish the race set before us”. I also told them how my dad often sang a song while I was growing up about “don’t quit”. I still remember the words to that song. “Don’t quit, there’s a job to be done. Don’t  quit there’s a race to be won, don’t quit. Weary Christian, don’t quit!” Singing is not necessarily my Dad's talent, but making a joyful noise is something he does very well! We only have a few practices left before we wrap up the Christmas program for another year. I’m not sure that God will bring me back to this next year, but I certainly have learned a lot in the three years I’ve taught  music!

The ice skating rink that the boys have been working on will be making its debut either tomorrow or Friday. The boys (especially Chandler) have been diligent in carefully adding water to each layer.  Bringing the water hose in and out, being patient and diligent...I think they’ve learned a lot!

I’ve been reading an Advent devotional book, and I’ve been teaching about it in our children’s Sunday School class. I am so thankful for the HOPE that came because of Jesus! Jesus became a willing servant, a humble baby to rescue a world of unwilling, ungrateful sinners. I am so glad that He rescued me, and that in Him my Hope is found! There is something very special to me about doing my devotions in the morning with the Christmas tree lit and the room quiet. (Quietness is short- lived around here, so I relish it greatly!)


 

 




We still don’t have our Christmas photo done or our Christmas letter written, but at the rate time is flying by and the speed that I am getting things done, I’m sure it will be a New Years Greeting (or maybe an Easter greeting?!)

As we enter these busy and special days in December, I hope that you find some time to spend in God’s Word. It’s a special season every year, and I want to savor the moment with family and friends, as well as my devotional time in the morning.

What are your family traditions for this month? A few of ours include:  decorating the tree, making cookies, drawing names for each other, visiting older folks to sing carols to, making a blessing box (random treats and small gifts to surprise someone or a family with), ice skating as a family, going to the Christmas parade, going to the Walk to Bethlehem (a church that does a great job taking you on a journey to Bethlehem) and special dates with our children.

 

 

 

 

T-H-A-N-K-S-G-I-V-I-N-G

 

 

 

A day of Thanksgiving is here again! Although this should be the attitude of our hearts year round, I’m thankful for a special day set aside for the giving of thanks with friends and family. We woke up to gently falling snow this morning, which delighted the hearts of our children. It sure is beautiful though, and I do love the reminder that Jesus’s blood has washed me white as snow. (Isaiah 1:18)

I’ve done this THANKSGIVING acronym in years past, but every year it turns out differently as I pass through different seasons of life. Maybe you could take some time to come up with your own acronym of this word, as I’m sure that yours would be different than mine.

T- Time: We are all given the same number of hours in a day regardless of where you live on this planet.   Each day is a new gift filled with time. I’m thankful for the hours given in each day to create memories, glorify God, and serve others. I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t always use my gift of time wisely, but I’m thankful that each day offers a fresh start with new hours of time.

H- Home: Roger and I have had several homes over the course of our married life, and each one holds a special place in our hearts. Seven years ago at this time, we were headed for Alaska for a short time to help in a church there. The months spent there hold some of our dearest and fondest memories, as well as friends that we will never forget. I’m looking forward to returning some day. A few years ago,  we lived in Arizona for a summer. We were able to get involved in a local church there, and the Pastor and his wife, Debbie, are still dear friends with us today. In each home we’ve had, I’m thankful for the opportunities to open our home to others and to hopefully impact others with the good news of Jesus. We are happy in our home here in Maine, and we we rejoice for  however long God keeps us here.


A- America: We live in a wonderful country. And while I agree that we are quickly forgetting our heritage and the Judeo-Christian values we were founded upon, the United States of America is still the dearest country on earth to me. I’m blessed to be an American.

N- Necessities:  In our country, we consider indoor plumbing, electricity, food and clothes to be necessities. Yet, when I consider the struggles that the country of Haiti is facing at this moment, I realize how incredibly blessed I am to have these necessities!

K- Kevin: This is Roger’s boss. I am so thankful for Roger’s job as well as his boss. This man gave Roger a chance at a job that Roger greatly enjoys. We are blessed to have Kevin and his wife, Terri, as our dear friends also.

S: Salvation, Spouse & Siblings: There is only one “s” in Thanksgiving, but I want to use it for three things. I am so very thankful for salvation. What a gift! God sent His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for my sins. Jesus rose from the dead, and I have absolute confidence that I will live in Heaven someday. (I’d love to talk with you about this gift!)  Spouse...Roger. God knew that there was only one man who would be able to put up with my craziness, and God gave me Roger. I’m thankful for a man who works hard, loves Jesus, prays for his family, and loves his wife and children. Siblings: I am blessed with two living sisters, Jen and Hannah. I love them both so much, and I am thankful that they are my sisters. I look forward to the day when I meet my other two sisters in Heaven. What a day that will be!

G- God’s Grace: I hope I will always be overwhelmed with this gift of God’s grace. He offers me  grace on a daily, moment by moment basis. I am so thankful for this grace that was extended to me, but also for others that show grace to me. My children still love me even though I fail them daily to  point them to Jesus. Yet our children still show me grace and give forgiveness when I mess up. What a blessing!

I - Investments: I’m not talking about monetary investments, although that’s something to be thankful for also. I’m talking about those that have invested in my life. Those that mentored me and discipled me; those that invested time in my life; those that invest in our children’s education; so many have invested in my life, and I am thankful for each one.

V- Vocation: God provided a job for me this year that was a perfect fit for our family. For years, Roger and I have prayed that I would be able to have a job that could help with the school bills, but yet allow me to have the same hours as our children. This year I am the teachers assistant in preschool, and I am very much enjoying this experience. I am blessed to be able to work at the same place that our children go to school at, and I am thankful!

I- Instruction: Christian education instruction (I.e. school) Our small Christian School is very dear to our hearts, and we are very thankful for each teacher in that school. Christian education is important to us, and God provided this school for our children. We are so thankful!

N-  New Friends:  I’m thankful for new friends that God brought into our lives this year. Being the preschool teachers aide has provided me with the opportunity to meet other moms that have children in the preschool. I am thankful for these new friends, and praying that God will use me to encourage them.

G- Gifts Yes, I like gifts too! I also like to give gifts, and I take special delight in finding a gift for someone that I know they will really like. Aren’t we blessed that God gives us daily gifts?! Gifts of His presence, His love, His sovereignty, and each attribute of God is truly something to be thankful for in my life!

That’s my thanksgiving list for this year! Have a wonderful day! Happy Thanksgiving!

School Fundraiser, Doctor’s App., and Sweet Sleep!

* As we enter into this week of our Thanksgiving break, we have much to be thankful for each and every day. While life can be overwhelming and hard at times, we serve a God Who is strong and faithful. I’m thankful for His grace...every day. God always gives me more than I can handle as He provides opportunities for me to run into His presence and come boldly to His throne with my requests. I pray that we can each find a few moments this week to spend thanking God for what He has done. Thanksgiving is not just a holiday, it should be an action in our lives.

I’m starting this post on Thursday night, but I know I will not finish it for a few more days. Every day has been very, very full this week as we prepare for the school fundraising auction tomorrow night. With music classes on Monday, a doctors appointment on Tuesday, all school Christmas program practice on Wednesday, plus preparing for the auction, working in the preschool room, being a wife and a mom....well, it’s a wonder that I even remember that it’s Thursday!

We had our first quarter awards chapel on Wednesday morning. Travis, Emma, and Chandler received perfect attendance awards. Wyatt made honor roll. He almost made high honors, but he was a few points off. Chandler was disappointed to not make honor roll, but I know he put forth his best effort. English is a challenge for him, and he struggles in that class. We are going to work on it a bit more together this quarter (I’ll need to brush up on my English!) Garett was thrilled to be passing in all of his subjects, as nothing about school is easy for him. However, he willingly goes to school every day. I had tears well up in my eyes as he was awarded the Merit Award for showing good character throughout this first quarter. I know that God can and will greatly use that boy if he will continue to be moldable and useable for God’s Glory....also my prayer for the rest of our children.

 

     

I had a doctors appointment on Tuesday afternoon. My friend, Claire, had graciously taken Emma home with her as it was a short day for Emma. I ran a few errands for the auction, and also snuck in a little time with Allison before the appointment. I didn’t go to the doctor because I was worried that something is wrong with me, but just because I haven’t been since we’ve moved to Maine. If I do have a reason to go to the doctor, I’d like them to know who I am! The doctors appointment went fairly well, I think. I don’t have any concerns, really. I mentioned to her that I am often tired, but is that due to age, hormones, or just life?! I have had low vitamin d levels in the past, and she would
like to check those levels and a few other things, so I’ll have some blood drawn next week. I haven’t  been to the doctor in over three years, and I am two pounds heavier than at my last appointment...I’m not sure if I should cry because I’m fatter or be delighted that it’s only two pounds heavier! It’s also a challenge to talk to the doctor about how I feel about my weight, when the doctor is a bit overweight. But, it’s just a reminder that so many of us struggle with the same things!

Emma has seemed a bit more tired than normal this week, which seems to happen every once in awhile. About 6:30 pm. every evening, she comes and asks me to “snuggle” with her in bed! We try  to make it until at least seven, but she falls asleep after about two books. I truly do treasure these moments with her. We are so blessed to have her in our lives.

Emma enjoys this letter game...and she does not like to lose!! 

The boys are still waiting to finish the ice skating rink, but the weather has not been quite cold enough lately. They are anxiously waiting and praying for cold weather, as they are looking forward to many days of skating!



I made pies with Garett’s class for the auction on Wednesday. The students made Tollhouse Cookie Pies to sell at the auction for their class project. The pies seemed to turn out fairly well, and the students had a good time missing them together, and then wrapping them nicely the next day. It was fun to see them wrap their pies, as most of the pies were wrapped in a manner that matched their personalities! I was happy to help Garett’s class with their auction project, and I was thankful for Claire’s help with instructing and cleaning up!

 

Lots of energy needed this week! 

*Welcome to another week! It is now Monday morning, and I’m trying to wrap this post up as we head into a short week of school. First of all, God greatly blessed the efforts of the auction on Friday night by bringing out people and providing a night full of fun and fellowship. Those that came seemed to really enjoy themselves, and I am so very thankful that is behind us! Friday was a day of working from being at the school by 6:45am. and getting home by 9:30pm.  I am so thankful for all of Allison’s work on preparing the lists of donation items, and for Claire and Melinda for their help with set up and decorating. I’m thankful for the mamas that came to help prepare for the auction, for the people that helped to gather donations from family and friends, for those who worked in the kitchen preparing food, and for so many others. It’s a big event to coordinate, but God is so very faithful. Travis and Emma were able to go home with some friends from school on Friday afternoon, and then brought back for the auction. This was super helpful to me, as we still had much to do at 3:00 in the afternoon! Im thankful that this is the only fundraiser that the parent group does every year, and I’m thankful for so many that show their love and support to the school.

I was exhausted this weekend. All the adrenaline was worn off by Saturday morning leaving me just plain tired! Thankfully, it was a low key day at home with a little grocery shopping. Roger had off on Saturday so it was nice to have him home. Now that the auction is behind us, I’ve started scribbling my notes for the Christmas program on scraps of paper. The kids have started to come and ask me, “Mom, is this paper important?” when I ask them to clear off the table! I have a notebook, but it’s never easily available when I need to write something down!

This is our week of our Thanksgiving Holiday! I’m thankful for a short week at school! Roger has a full week of work ahead, but he does have off on Thanksgiving Day. We are looking forward to our time together. Praying that each of you will be able to enjoy a Day of Thanks with family and friends this year.
Blessings,
Sarah

Cold Weather, Delighted Hearts & and An Ice Rink

This past week was full of school days, play days, work days, music class days, parent-teacher conferences, broken vehicles, and our first snow fall! The snow fall definitely coats everything with a beautiful covering...and delights the hearts of our children!

Last Friday, I was able to sneak away in the afternoon to have lunch with my friend, Allison. Since I am working every day  and teaching music classes, we just don’t have time for coffee dates as often. It definitely makes me treasure and soak up any time that we do get to have together. Allison is a good friend to me, and one of the many gifts God gave to me when we moved to Maine. We enjoyed lunch together, did some window shopping and just enjoyed a short afternoon of food and fellowship.

Saturday found Emma and I, along with my sister, Hannah, out on a shopping date together. We took a trip to the big city of Portland, and we went to Sam’s Club as well as a few other stops. Per my typical shopping excursions, I ended up buying mostly food! I guess thats what’s exciting when you have a large family. I have to admit I was pretty excited about finding raspberries for $1.00! Emma ate her own container on the way home. I bought twelve packages of berries, and by Sunday night, all the berries were gone! Oh well! I had a good time with Hannah, and Emma was thrilled to come along on a “girls” trip.

While I was gone on Saturday, Roger and the boys were busy! They are working on setting up an ice rink in the back yard...I know...It’s what every mom dreams about, right?! Oh my goodness, they have been hard a work setting up and getting ready for the liner. A gentleman that is a good friend of our family, donated money towards the boys project. He told Roger that he feels like some of the problems in our society stem from the fact that kids do not go outside enough and have enough active play. Well, we don’t even have the liner or water in the rink yet, but they have certainly been enjoying the enclosure. They’ve used it for soccer, basketball, airsoft, and everything else!

 

 

 

We did not have school on Monday as it was Veterans Day. It was nice to spend the day at home working on projects and catching up on laundry. Roger helped me with several projects that I’m working on for the preschool class. Each class makes a project to sell at the auction, and I always like to try out the projects ahead of time! Roger painted clay pots for me, helped me paint pine cones.
Emma enjoyed helping with the salt dough ornament projects, and it was a fun time for both of us. I’m excited to do these projects with our preschool class!


It was the end of the first quarter last week, so that meant that we had parent-teacher conferences this week. I was pretty impressed that I managed to get to all the right appointments at the right times! With having five kids in the school, that means that we have at least one child in each class in the elementary school. I did a few in the mornings before school and one in the afternoon. All of the kids received good reports from their teachers. Not all of our kids have amazing grades, but it was encouraging to hear each of their teachers say how much they enjoy having our children in their classroom. Each child has different strengths and weaknesses, and they are not all academic struggles. I would wager to say that the biggest struggles in our lives will not come in the form of academics, but rather in the testing of our character. I’m thankful for each teacher that works with our children, and I know that God has given them to be in our children’s life to help them in their spiritual walks.



In my spare time (haha!) I’ve been helping to coordinate the fundraising auction that will take place  next Friday. My friend, Claire, took Emma home with her on Tuesday afternoon, and I chased down donations for the auction. There comes a time and a place where I am just tired of asking, but this is the biggest fundraiser for our parent group for the school year. We use the funds from the auction to
help provide weekly hot lunch, field trips, technology needs, teacher appreciation week, and many other things. God has always blessed our efforts, and He has shown Himself strong and mighty every year. This year God provided a kindergarten mom who offered to ask many businesses for me. I just don’t have as much time, and God provided Kaitlin at just the right moment. She asked many businesses, followed up with them, and she has been a great blessing to me. The auction takes the working together of many, many people and businesses. I am thankful for each person who has worked to help this endeavor! And I am very, very thankful that we are coming down the home stretch on this!

I’m starting to dream (i.e. have nightmares) about the Christmas program, which is typical for this time of year.  I feel a bit farther behind than I normally do, but I also don’t have the same amount of time as in years past. I’m thankful that Allison’s daughter, Emma, was able to load the music for the program into my ipad. Then I went to use the music on the sound system at church and nothing happened! I know it’s just one more detail that God is going to work out, but oh how my mind is full! Emma’s verse for this week is Isaiah 26:3, which is probably more fitting for me at the moment! “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in Thee.” It’s just a good reminder to keep praying, keep working, keep trusting, and keep on trying to encourage
the students to put forth their best effort. How do you encourage kids to find passion in the things that matter?! God is good, and I will trust Him.

 These harps have been both a delight and a pain! If anyone knows how I can help them stay in tune longer, I’m open to suggestions! 

Roger’s car bit the dust for a few days this week, so that meant some very early morning for me. I’ve been driving him to work in the morning, (at 5:00am.) and then coming home to get ready for the  day. It’s given us some time to visit together in the morning, but it sure has made me tired! Roger was able to fix his car, so hopefully it will run a little longer.

It was a busy and full week, but God provided moments of rest, fellowship and fun! God brought us safely through another week, and I’m thankful for family, memories, and challenges that all point me to Jesus.
Love,
Sarah

Jumping Back In and Slaying Dragons!

Wyatt and I arrived home a week ago today after our whirlwind trip to Wisconsin. I am so thankful that the Lord opened the doors for us to go, but we have both been a bit tired out lately!

We jumped back into our week, but it's a weird feeling starting the school week on a Thursday. Wyatt's teacher was very understanding and kind about Wyatt catching up, and he is back on track. I felt like I stumbled through the rest of the week with music classes on Friday, and then again on Monday so we could get back to our regularly scheduled days. I'm thankful for the teachers graciousness in accommodating my schedule. We are six weeks out from the Christmas program, and I'm starting to dream about it at night! I am learning another lesson in trusting God completely as I ask Him to bless our endeavors. It's intimidating to many students to get in front of people to sing and recite lines, and there is certainly much to do. I need to remind myself often and loudly that God is in this event also. He cares about our lives, and He knows my heart. My hearts desire is that the students will honor and glorify God through this event, and that hearts will be turned to Jesus Christ.

The boys and Roger did such a good job keeping the house picked up and tidy while I was away last week. I came home to clean laundry, a clean kitchen, and new shelves in my pantry! I'm so blessed.

Garett and Chandler had a youth event to go to on Saturday morning. They were leaving the church at 8:30am and returning by 8:30 pm. They were both excited to go as it was a youth conference with preaching and music as well as fun and games. These types of conferences are good for them to attend as it helps them realize that it is not just mom and dad that want them to follow Jesus. We were early to the church, so I sat in the van with Garett and Chandler (Roger had stayed home with the other kids.) As vehicles started pulling into the parking lot, Chandler started to become upset. He had real tears in his eyes, and his voice was shaking as he talked to me. "Mom, please, please don't make me go. I want to go home." Although I asked him why, I already knew the answer. Chandler has to work very, very hard on his attitude during the school week as there are a few students that he struggles to get along with and not be angry at. Chandler sees the world in either very black or very white, but there are no gray areas. I know that he works hard during the school week, and I couldn't make myself tell him he had to go on Saturday. God is continually working in Chandler's heart though as every year God has given Chandler someone that is a bit of a difficulty for him. As much as I think that God could have and would have worked in Chandler's heart on Saturday, I firmly believe that Chandler needed me to be his mom and the protector of his world that moment on Saturday. In the mind of Chandler, I slew a dragon for him that Saturday morning. I am praying that God will use this event in Chandler's life. Garett did not seem to mind going by himself with the other kids in the youth group, and I was thankful that he went. He came home full of stories, memories, and tidbits of things that he had learned. 

Roger and I spent Saturday working on various projects around the house, grocery shopping, and planning out some things for the next week. Roger and I were supposed to attend a couples dinner in the evening, but it just did not work out to go. We had originally planned for Garett to watch our kids, but then he went to the youth event. Chandler is a bit young to be in charge for a couple of hours when it's dark outside. Everyone in Maine seems to have lots of family around, and they have been born and raised here. Roger and I are a bit of an oddity in the fact that we do not have lots of family around, and we are still relatively new to Maine. (In the eyes of some people, we will always be new as we were not born and raised here!) While I know that Roger was especially disappointed to miss out on Saturday (sometimes it is hard for Roger to feel connect to the church as he does have to work on Sundays sometimes), we did have a good evening at home with our children. I am thankful for evenings when we can just enjoy each other's company, play games, and eat popcorn!

Roger had to work on Sunday, so that always makes me feel a bit lonely. Lonely is a weird feeling as it can occur in a room full of people or while surrounded by five loud children. We had a prayer breakfast during the Sunday School hour. Our church family comes together once a quarter to have breakfast together and spend the hour in prayer. It is one of my favorite events in the year. I was especially delighted that the boys pitched in to help pick up chairs and tables after the breakfast was done-without me having to ask them! I'm thankful for the parenting delights that God gives me, as most of the time, I feel like a ship without sails trying to steer in a storm! God blessed my heart with the actions of our children on Sunday, and I was encouraged. (That was just preparation for the big arguments and disagreements my children would have later in the week with each other!)

Our children have been enjoying ice skating lessons through the school for the past three weeks. The school is able to offer ice skating lessons for four weeks to all the students in the elementary school. Our children enjoy this time so much, and Roger was able to go with them on Tuesday. I am thankful that Roger chose to spend time with his children when he could've been doing 100 other things. We are creating memories and moments in the hearts and lives of our children. I want our children to remember the times that Dad did fun things with them, the moment that mom stood up for them, the victories over sin that they know only God could orchestrate, the battles won with bad attitudes and sour faces, and the joys that come with confidence in Jesus. I'm hoping that our children don't remember the times that mom was grouchy or short on patience as much!

We serve a God who is faithful and true. I delight in the promise that "For He hath said, I will never leave thee nor forsake thee." Hebrews 13:5

Tears and Trips (to Wisconsin)

It’s 11:00pm. on Tuesday night, and I am sitting in the Chicago airport waiting to fly back to Maine. It was a crazy few days, but I have no regrets over the craziness of the days. I’ve shed quite a few tears over the last few days, and I’m thankful for the promise that someday God will wipe away all tears form our eyes in Heaven. I’m thankful for the ability to cry and to feel emotions like sadness and sorrow as well as joy and peace. We serve a God who created us so perfectly!

I got a call from my sister, Hannah, on Thursday night. My dad had tried to call earlier, but because I was going to be in a meeting, I didn’t answer the phone. However, when my sister called about 1/2hour later, I knew something was amiss. I stepped out of the meeting to take the phone call, and my sister told me that Grandma had passed away,  My sister and her husband had gone out to Wisconsin for a few days to visit my parents. On Thursday they decided to take a trip up to Wausau to visit Grandma. Little did they know that Grandma was going to see Jesus that afternoon. My dad had mentioned to me that Grandma’s life seemed to be winding down, but I was still taken a bit off guard when my sister said that Grandma had passed away. This past summer, we had tried to get up to see grandma on three different occasions during the week we were home. However, the truck broke down once, then our van needed fixing, and then we didn’t have a vehicle big enough to take all of us! I’ll never know why God chose not to allow the pieces to fall into place for that, but it is what it is. Hannah mentioned that Grandma’s death was one of the most peaceful she had ever witnessed. I’m glad that Grandma went in peace, and I know that she was ready to go to Heaven. She will be missed by all those that loved her, but Heaven is sweeter.


I knew that I wanted to go out to Wisconsin for the funeral if it was at all possible. Roger and I immediately started looking for flights, but we couldn’t move forward until we knew when the funeral would be. My dad called me on Friday afternoon to tell me that the there would be a family viewing on Sunday and a memorial service on Tuesday. I did not see how on earth I would ever be able to go on such short notice, but Roger and I decided to see what plans we could come up with that would work. I called our school administrator to see about moving music classes, and finding a sub for the three days I would need to miss. I contacted the boys piano teacher to see about moving piano
lessons. And the pastor to tell him I wouldn’t be able to teach Sunday school. And I called a friend to see about covering my preschool Bible class on Sunday evening. And then there were plans to coordinate for the kids to and from school, grocery shopping to be done....oh, and to find a plane ticket! How did the details get together?! Only because we serve a big, big God! I was able to find a plane ticket from Boston to Chicago, and it was cheap enough that we could afford to send one child with me. Since Garett had gone to Haiti, and Chandler had taken a trip with Roger last year to pick up an airplane part, we decided  to see if Wyatt would want to come with me. He immediately said yes, and his teacher was fine with him missing a few days of school. I decided not to tell my parents that I was bringing Wyatt but to surprise them. We found a car rental in Chicago, and a flight out of Boston on Saturday evening. It is a very weird feeling to book a ticket one day and fly out on the next! That is definitely not how my planner, organizer brain functions most of the time! Roger was contacted the small air company that flys out of Roger’s airport. Roger was able to get Wyatt and I booked on the flight out of our local airport at no extra cost! That was totally of the Lord that we could fly to Boston so that Roger did not have to drive us, and we had a little more time to prepare. I have been blessed
with some wonderful and dear friends who came together on behalf of our family. Terri watched our kids on Sunday, another friend (Ashley) made a meal, another friend (Claire) volunteered to take Emma on Tuesday afternoon  and pick up the other kids. I am still just in awe of how God  orchestrated so many details! Roger was supportive of me going, and encouraged me to bring along Wyatt. I am so thankful for Roger. 


Wyatt and I landed in Chicago at nine pm on Saturday night, and it was raining. We took the shuttle over to the rental car place, and apparently everyone was renting from Thrifty car rental that evening!  It was a long wait to get our car, and Wyatt and I were both so tired! However, God gave grace and  we arrived at my parents house around two am (which was three am in Maine!). My sister, Jen, had arrived from South Dakota only about an hour before us. Hannah and Josh were able to stay a few extra days for the service for Grandma.

On Sunday afternoon we drove up to Wausau for the viewing for the family. Wyatt was one of the
only children there on Sunday afternoon, and he seemed unsure. I’m thankful for how my sister, Jen, loves him and takes him under her wing. We were able to go out to dinner with some of our extended family, and the laughter and good conversations were good medicine. Some of my cousins I haven’t seen in years, so the reunion was sweet. Wyatt was also glad when we went back to my parents house,  and he could ride the four-wheeler!

On Monday we soaked up our time with family. Wyatt went with Uncle Josh and Papa to do some pigeon hunting, and Wyatt rode the four-wheeler on many trips around the yard! I was able to squeeze in a quick visit with my friend, Jenna, who came over with her four little ones. It was a morning full of good fellowship and good conversations. Later in the day, we went to do a little shopping together and had dinner together. It’s been almost four years since Jen, Hannah and I have all been at my parents house. I am thankful that God provided the opportunity for me to return to Wisconsin for a few days. Wyatt was perfectly delighted that he woke up to snow on the ground on Tuesday morning!


Tuesday was a day full of emotions, conversations, reunions, and driving! Hannah and Josh we’re leaving from the service to begin the drive back to Maine, Jen was leaving from the service to head to South Dakota, and Wyatt and I were leaving to head to Chicago. We ended up taking four vehicles up to Wausau for the service, as we were all heading in different directions afterwards. What a blessing to visit with cousins that I haven’t seen in years...some of them over ten years! It was so good to reconnect, and visit but the time was so short. I know that Grandma would’ve been delighted with all the family visiting that went on that afternoon. I especially enjoyed catching up with my cousin, Justine. We spent the little time we had discussing things that matter for eternity. We discussed marriage, parenting, seasons of life, and prayer requests, and I will treasure up those conversations for months to come. It was a blessing to sit at the table for the meal after the service with my cousins, Justine, Erica, and Beth...the years have flown by!


The one thing that really captured my attention during Grandma’s service was her Bible. The pastor mentioned her Bible, and how she loved her Bible. Some of the pages were tattered and torn, the Bible was full of notes and highlights, and it was clearly a treasure to her. What a testimony! I want my Bible to be well-loved as was Grandma’s Bible.

It was a crazy few days, and I cannot help but praise our great, great God! Our flight out of Chicago on Wednesday morning was a little delayed due to snow, but we arrived in Boston on time to get the flight to Rockland. Wyatt and I were able to get on the flight from Boston to Rockland so once again, Roger did not need to drive to Portland or Boston to get us. We arrived back in our area by 10:30am on Wednesday morning. We were both very, very tired, but thankful to be home. Wyatt said that he was glad he was able to come with me, and I hope we created some memories that will last a lifetime. I’m so thankful for this sweet, sweet boy, and I pray that he will grow up to love Jesus passionately. Wyatt and I were both in bed by 6:30pm, and we slept long and hard. It was a weird feeling to go to school on a Thursday, but here we are in the last half of the week. We are rejoicing to be home, and we are thankful for each one that helped out our family in so many ways this past week.

To God be the Glory!
Sarah

Thorns with the Roses OR Roses with the Thorns?!

Abraham Lincoln said, "We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses." 

Life is a journey with beautiful roses to enjoy and a few thorns also along the way. If we didn’t have the thorns, we wouldn’t appreciate the roses in our lives. In the Christian’s life, God uses these experiences to draw us to Himself...both the lows and the highs. I’m so thankful for both, but sometimes the thorns  seem a bit pokier and sharper than I’d prefer! However, I know that God is the Ultimate Planner and Director of my life, and I have no reason to  worry or fret.

 

 

This past week, (10/18) my college cross-country coach for two of the four years that I ran, finished his earthly journey. Coach was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer towards the end of September, and he is celebrating a brand new body in Heaven now. It happened so quickly, and I’m still pondering so much of it all. Jack Noonan was my cross-country coach for my first two years of college running. I couldn’t possibly relate all that I learned from him both in running, but more importantly, in life. Coach was also the head of the kitchen on our college campus, which is not a particularly recognized position. Yet he worked hard at what he did, and he tried to instill in his team the need to work hard regardless of recognition. I remember him telling me early on in my running years that cross-country was not the sport to be in if you were seeking recognition or fame. Runners run early in the morning, have practice in the afternoon, and very few people come to watch runners race. Yet he taught us to enjoy the sport, to take delight in the quiet morning runs, to spend that quiet time reflecting on the goodnesses of God and His Word. Coach always opened practice with Scripture and prayer, and I’ll never forget his mentorship in my life. He saw potential in a girl who had tried out for the volley ball team (and had not been chosen!), and he taught me to enjoy running...something I still enjoy to this day. I’m not running sub-twenty minutes for three miles any more, but I still appreciate the sport. I’ll miss his birthday blessings to me every year, and his smile. Heaven is a bit sweeter this week.

Last week we also had our first “snow day”. It was actually a storm day, as school was closed due to power outages. I’m thankful that our house has a generator, and it really didn’t seem that bad to me. I ended up at the school anyways as I needed to work on some stuff for school, and the kids came with me. They played while I worked for a bit, and then we headed home. It was a productive day as far as projects at home, so that was nice.

We played soccer with some other friends on Saturday morning, so that was a fun time for us. Roger had the day off, so it was nice to play together as a family. The boys really enjoy soccer, and it was a beautiful fall day. In the afternoon, I took Emma to a birthday party for one of her classmates. The two younger boys also came along, while Roger took the older boys to the airport to do some work. I  wasn’t exactly crazy about going back out on Saturday afternoon, but God provided me with wonderful opportunity to visit with one of the other moms of a student in Emma’s class. I had prayed  specifically before walking into the party that I would find someone to be a blessing to and to have a
conversation with someone. I don’t know if I blessed this mom, but I certainly received a blessing! I am so thankful for the opportunity that God gave to me to visit with this mom. My heart was certainly encouraged.


Sunday was a bit crazy and chaotic. I’m not big on disorganization and miscommunication, and I wasn’t feeling my best on Sunday morning. I’m thankful that Roger had the day off or I might have given into the flesh and just stayed home! Roger had the opportunity to help in the morning service  with the music, and I taught Childrens church. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to serve  Christ in our local church body, but does anyone else ever wonder if we do what we do because we are called to serve, but its not necessarily our gift or where we’d prefer to serve?! Every once in a while, I wonder if I’m serving because I’m using “my gifts” or just filling a need in the body of believers. I’m not necessarily  saying either are bad...sometimes I just need a nap to reset! So, I went  home and after lunch, I took a nap! God gives us rest, and sometimes that’s all it takes for a fresh perspective.

This week felt like a lot of  Mondays! I told Renee that I felt like every day this week was Monday! I taught music classes on Monday, and I attended a baby shower for a mama in our church in the evening. On Tuesday, my friend, Claire, offered to take Emma for the afternoon. That worked out well for me as I was able to get a lot done for our upcoming fundraiser auction. Emma is a great trooper, but going in and out of places asking for auction donations, is not really something she enjoys. (Me either...but I do it!)


On Wednesday, I received a text saying that someone had donated money for my Haiti Missions trip! This was a complete and total surprise to me, and I think God specifically waited to let me know about the gift to bless my heart on Wednesday. The gift came from some dear friends of ours in Alaska. I called Damaris in the afternoon to tell her thank you, and we had such a good visit. About this time of year, seven years ago, we were preparing to head to Alaska with our four young sons. We would spend a couple of months in a small village in Alaska to help in a church there. The experience has never been forgotten, and should God ever provide us with that opportunity again, I would definitely want to go. We made such wonderful memories, and God provided us with some dear friends that we still treasure to this day.


It’s been a busy and full week, but the weather has been mostly gorgeous! Roger is happy to be back to flying again as the plane needing the paint job is complete. God blessed Roger with a great job, and for the most part, he really enjoys what he does.

I have been enjoying the preschoolers as there is never a dull moment! It is hard to believe that we are finishing up week 8 this week! Even harder to believe that the Christmas Program is right around the corner! The students have been working hard, and I always start to wonder if Ive bitten off more than I can chew about this time of year! One day and one practice at a time, and I don’t want to do this for my glory, but that God will be magnified and glorified through this Christmas program.

We appreciate your love and prayers,
Sarah