This weekend, the Blanco family experienced Christmas in a new way. We went to Current Church on Saturday night, which hosted a live Biblical experience, called “Journey to Bethlehem.” From the time we entered that church, we were treated like part of the production, and we loved it! We were placed in the “Abraham family,” and ushered outside into the frigid air after refreshments and a brief overview. Soon, the reality of what Mary and Joseph and all the other Israelites experienced on their way to be “counted” in Bethlehem, began to sink in! The girls and I held hands nervously, but with a twinge of excitement, as we experienced firsthand the evening of a traveling Jew from our various hometowns to Roman-led Bethlehem!
Everyone was dressed in the garb of that day, complete with beards and sandals, and though we were “tourists,” we were participants in the adventure! As we followed our guide, Benjamin, and his wife, Hannah, we not only met horses, sheep, camels, donkeys, and goats along the way, but we also began hearing the word of the coming Messiah. Not only was He prophesied to come to earth, but He was going to save us from Roman rule. As we were stopped along the way and checked by the dreaded Roman soldiers, we began to see why relief from their cruel rule would be miraculous! Later on, we came upon the traveling Maggi, who graciously showed us the gifts they were bringing the new King – they were so elegant and royal in their wealthy robes and headpieces!
We passed shepherds in the field, who spoke excitedly of the rumored Messiah. Just then, angels appeared in the far field and in the incredible glow of light, prophesied the coming King! Moving on, we shivered in the cold, and at another checkpoint, our money was taken for “taxes.” Benjamin was livid, as we were told about the census, but not about more taxes! There was just enough money to find a place for the family to stay somewhere in Bethlehem, and to give each child a shekel to spend at the town market! The kids excitedly held their shiny coins, and as we entered the market, vendors began their sales pitches, “Ten shekels for this plump chicken!”
From the marketplace, the kids left with wooden tops, handmade necklaces and other goodies. We moved on to find a place to stay, and soon realized there was no more room! The man at the inn told us about the stable around back that maybe had a little room left, but to keep quiet, as a young woman had just given birth to a baby boy there earlier that night. As we rounded the corner, a trio of village worshippers sang greetings to us. And there, in the back of that humble shanty, a young mother held the Savior in her arms, gently rocking him as her husband looked lovingly on. A donkey stood just feet from them, calmly chewing. Tears came to my eyes as this experience came to a close, and I realized that we had lived just a moment in the real experience of Jesus’ first night here on earth.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Did You Know?
DID YOU KNOW?
As you walk up the steps to the building which houses the U.S. Supreme Court you can see near the top of the building a row of the world's law givers and each one is facing one in the middle who is facing forward with a full frontal view ... The one in the middle is Moses and he is holding the Ten Commandments!
DID YOU KNOW?
As you enter the Supreme Court courtroom, the two huge oak doors have the Ten Commandments engraved on each lower portion of each door.
DID YOU KNOW?
As you sit inside the courtroom, you can see on the wall right above where the Supreme Court Judges sit, is a display of the Ten Commandments!
DID YOU KNOW?
There are Bible verses etched in stone all over the Federal Buildings and Monuments in Washington, D.C.
James Madison, the fourth president, known as 'The Father of Our Constitution' made the following statement:
'We have staked the whole of all our political Institutions upon the capacity of mankind for Self-government, upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to The Ten Commandments of God.'
DID YOU KNOW?
Every session of Congress begins with a prayer by a paid preacher, whose salary has been paid by the taxpayer since 1777. Fifty-two of the fifty-five founders of the Constitution were members of the established Orthodox churches in the colonies.
DID YOU KNOW?
Thomas Jefferson worried that the Courts would overstep their authority and instead of merely interpreting the law, would begin making law an oligarchy, which is the rule of a few over many.
How then, have we gotten to the point that everything we have done for 220 years in this Country is now suddenly wrong and Unconstitutional?
(This is borrowed from a mass mailing, and I would give credit to the author, but no author was stated.)
As you walk up the steps to the building which houses the U.S. Supreme Court you can see near the top of the building a row of the world's law givers and each one is facing one in the middle who is facing forward with a full frontal view ... The one in the middle is Moses and he is holding the Ten Commandments!
DID YOU KNOW?
As you enter the Supreme Court courtroom, the two huge oak doors have the Ten Commandments engraved on each lower portion of each door.
DID YOU KNOW?
As you sit inside the courtroom, you can see on the wall right above where the Supreme Court Judges sit, is a display of the Ten Commandments!
DID YOU KNOW?
There are Bible verses etched in stone all over the Federal Buildings and Monuments in Washington, D.C.
James Madison, the fourth president, known as 'The Father of Our Constitution' made the following statement:
'We have staked the whole of all our political Institutions upon the capacity of mankind for Self-government, upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to The Ten Commandments of God.'
DID YOU KNOW?
Every session of Congress begins with a prayer by a paid preacher, whose salary has been paid by the taxpayer since 1777. Fifty-two of the fifty-five founders of the Constitution were members of the established Orthodox churches in the colonies.
DID YOU KNOW?
Thomas Jefferson worried that the Courts would overstep their authority and instead of merely interpreting the law, would begin making law an oligarchy, which is the rule of a few over many.
How then, have we gotten to the point that everything we have done for 220 years in this Country is now suddenly wrong and Unconstitutional?
(This is borrowed from a mass mailing, and I would give credit to the author, but no author was stated.)
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
25 Things the Blanco Family Experienced After One Whole Year in Texas…
1. Camped with the alligators in the rain (almost!)
2. Accidently picked up a baby water moccasin (viper) in the backyard
3. Seen too many dead armadillos to count, but no living ones
4. Bumped into an opossum with the van (Daddy!), and knocked it silly (it’s alive!)
5. Rode a camel – Jovanni , Bess and Gavin
6. Drove through fog so thick you can’t see the car in front of you
7. Swam in the ocean with jumping fish and diving birds (which were eating the jumping fish!) One fish slapped Bess in the face with its tail before it fell back into the water!
8. Fell in love with Texas Land and Cattle Restaurant (best chicken fried chicken in the state!)
9. Drove back to AZ to visit family and friends, then drove back home to Texas (You ever driven across the entire state of Texas?! Oh yeah? With two vehicles, six kids, two dogs and three semi-grumpy adults?!)
10. Picked bluebonnets near Brenham (which we later found out was totally illegal!)
11. Learned the Texas state pledge
12. Lived first in an apartment, then in our dream two-story home – now the kids have to help us clean, but they really don’t mind!
13. Played on the beach of South Padre Island, Texas, with Tio Byron and Tia Illiana, where we truly enjoyed the sun-drenched island and all there was to do there.
14. Worked at a nursing home with wonderful Grandpa’s and Grandma’s who have Alzheimer’s – where there is NEVER a dull moment! (Bess)
15. Drove to Tulsa, Oklahoma to visit Grandpa Corky and family. Took six kids, three adults and two rambunctious puppies (Cagney and Lacey!)
16. Rescued a tiny baby kitty, then promptly gave it away – NO CATS!!!
17. Went to the Houston Zoo, where the kids were prairie dogs for a moment!
18. Swam and played at Schlitterbahn Water Park in New Braunsfels (with Tio And Tia again!), the largest water park in the world. (Mom stayed in the kiddie section with Sophie – we burnt up, but loved it!)
19. Went to Dallas for a whole week without ANY family (Jovanni)– Youth For the Nations Camp – Jovanni hated the food, but will be forever impacted by the worship, fellowship and training he received there!
20. Mom and Dad flew to Alabama (gorgeous state – at least northern AL, which is in the Tennessee River Valley.)
21. Made some really good friends who have helped us feel at home here!
22. Ate at Cheddar’s for the first time. We really enjoyed the nachos (Jovanni) and crescent rolls (Bess).
23. Got promoted for a long-worked-for position, Project Manager! (Juan)
24. Found a church where “Everyone is a minister!” and settled into the church family
25. Missed our friends and family back in sunny AZ – Have a wonderful holiday season and joyous new year!!!
This countdown's purpose is to generate questions! Ask us anything about these fun stories, we'd love to tell you!
1. Camped with the alligators in the rain (almost!)
2. Accidently picked up a baby water moccasin (viper) in the backyard
3. Seen too many dead armadillos to count, but no living ones
4. Bumped into an opossum with the van (Daddy!), and knocked it silly (it’s alive!)
5. Rode a camel – Jovanni , Bess and Gavin
6. Drove through fog so thick you can’t see the car in front of you
7. Swam in the ocean with jumping fish and diving birds (which were eating the jumping fish!) One fish slapped Bess in the face with its tail before it fell back into the water!
8. Fell in love with Texas Land and Cattle Restaurant (best chicken fried chicken in the state!)
9. Drove back to AZ to visit family and friends, then drove back home to Texas (You ever driven across the entire state of Texas?! Oh yeah? With two vehicles, six kids, two dogs and three semi-grumpy adults?!)
10. Picked bluebonnets near Brenham (which we later found out was totally illegal!)
11. Learned the Texas state pledge
12. Lived first in an apartment, then in our dream two-story home – now the kids have to help us clean, but they really don’t mind!
13. Played on the beach of South Padre Island, Texas, with Tio Byron and Tia Illiana, where we truly enjoyed the sun-drenched island and all there was to do there.
14. Worked at a nursing home with wonderful Grandpa’s and Grandma’s who have Alzheimer’s – where there is NEVER a dull moment! (Bess)
15. Drove to Tulsa, Oklahoma to visit Grandpa Corky and family. Took six kids, three adults and two rambunctious puppies (Cagney and Lacey!)
16. Rescued a tiny baby kitty, then promptly gave it away – NO CATS!!!
17. Went to the Houston Zoo, where the kids were prairie dogs for a moment!
18. Swam and played at Schlitterbahn Water Park in New Braunsfels (with Tio And Tia again!), the largest water park in the world. (Mom stayed in the kiddie section with Sophie – we burnt up, but loved it!)
19. Went to Dallas for a whole week without ANY family (Jovanni)– Youth For the Nations Camp – Jovanni hated the food, but will be forever impacted by the worship, fellowship and training he received there!
20. Mom and Dad flew to Alabama (gorgeous state – at least northern AL, which is in the Tennessee River Valley.)
21. Made some really good friends who have helped us feel at home here!
22. Ate at Cheddar’s for the first time. We really enjoyed the nachos (Jovanni) and crescent rolls (Bess).
23. Got promoted for a long-worked-for position, Project Manager! (Juan)
24. Found a church where “Everyone is a minister!” and settled into the church family
25. Missed our friends and family back in sunny AZ – Have a wonderful holiday season and joyous new year!!!
This countdown's purpose is to generate questions! Ask us anything about these fun stories, we'd love to tell you!
Monday, November 22, 2010
What Do You Have To Be Thankful For?
It's 2010, and it's Thanksgiving Day again this Thursday. I'm so excited, the turkey is thawing, the pie ingredients sitting in my pantry, ready to be beaten, tossed, rolled and baked into scrumptious goods for our bellies, devoured with family and friends around a warm, cozy kitchen.
Thanksgiving Day is my absolute favorite holiday, hands down. Especially since about three years ago, when our life as the Blanco family was looking up again after the hardest time of our lives! Anyone who doubts God's goodness and provision should just let Juan and I tell you even ten minutes of our story, and you will know, by the gleam in our eyes and the wide smiles on our faces, how good our God is! Life can be tough, and unfair, and flat out miserable sometimes. God knows that, and He always give enough grace and love and strength to get us through. And not just through it, but better for it!
So I have ALOT to be thankful for this holiday. My handsome, godly man and the integrity he lives every day by. The way he holds me every day, kisses me every night, and values me as his wife and mother of his children. My strapping young son and his tender heart, the way he cares for his sisters, even when the estrogen levels reach "overboard" in this house! At twelve, he has a sense of God's call on his life, and holds an incredible heart for God. My oldest daughter and lifesaver, Isabella. At nine, she is "little mama," nurturer, family cheerleader, Sophie's life teacher, and everybody's friend. Gigi, in her six year old innocence, is very wise, too loud and wonderfully humerous! She lights up any room she enters, and her charm is endearing, even right after she's made you steaming mad! Sophie, our "baby" at two, (almost three) is gorgeous, delightfully stubborn, and never boring! She has the voice of an angel, and is painfully shy outside of the house. She has many admirers, as she sports the favor of the Lord on her and her life!
You see, the most important things in my life are not things at all. I know what it is like to lose those most precious to you. I've lost them before. God in His mercy saw fit to restore me my family and future. And I'm so very, very grateful for that.
I'm thankful for the family of God, His people who embrace eachother, share in life with eachother, correct eachother and cheer for eachother. Without them, we would be weak warriors in this battle we are in! No one in the body is perfect, or should pretend to be. We're meant to be different, to complete eachother and strengthen eachother for this walk.
I'm thankful for you, my readers, as I tred this troubled ground of being a wordsmith for the Lord. It is not ever easy, not always rewarding, but so necessary. He has put me here, at this time and in this place to wield the Sword, His word, and do battle for His kingdom. I am so thankful that He gives me the testimony, the words, and the stubborness to fulfill His call on my life in this ministry of writing.
So I just have one question for you, my friend, what do YOU have to be thankful for this year? God bless you as you take inventory of all His blessings in your life!
Thanksgiving Day is my absolute favorite holiday, hands down. Especially since about three years ago, when our life as the Blanco family was looking up again after the hardest time of our lives! Anyone who doubts God's goodness and provision should just let Juan and I tell you even ten minutes of our story, and you will know, by the gleam in our eyes and the wide smiles on our faces, how good our God is! Life can be tough, and unfair, and flat out miserable sometimes. God knows that, and He always give enough grace and love and strength to get us through. And not just through it, but better for it!
So I have ALOT to be thankful for this holiday. My handsome, godly man and the integrity he lives every day by. The way he holds me every day, kisses me every night, and values me as his wife and mother of his children. My strapping young son and his tender heart, the way he cares for his sisters, even when the estrogen levels reach "overboard" in this house! At twelve, he has a sense of God's call on his life, and holds an incredible heart for God. My oldest daughter and lifesaver, Isabella. At nine, she is "little mama," nurturer, family cheerleader, Sophie's life teacher, and everybody's friend. Gigi, in her six year old innocence, is very wise, too loud and wonderfully humerous! She lights up any room she enters, and her charm is endearing, even right after she's made you steaming mad! Sophie, our "baby" at two, (almost three) is gorgeous, delightfully stubborn, and never boring! She has the voice of an angel, and is painfully shy outside of the house. She has many admirers, as she sports the favor of the Lord on her and her life!
You see, the most important things in my life are not things at all. I know what it is like to lose those most precious to you. I've lost them before. God in His mercy saw fit to restore me my family and future. And I'm so very, very grateful for that.
I'm thankful for the family of God, His people who embrace eachother, share in life with eachother, correct eachother and cheer for eachother. Without them, we would be weak warriors in this battle we are in! No one in the body is perfect, or should pretend to be. We're meant to be different, to complete eachother and strengthen eachother for this walk.
I'm thankful for you, my readers, as I tred this troubled ground of being a wordsmith for the Lord. It is not ever easy, not always rewarding, but so necessary. He has put me here, at this time and in this place to wield the Sword, His word, and do battle for His kingdom. I am so thankful that He gives me the testimony, the words, and the stubborness to fulfill His call on my life in this ministry of writing.
So I just have one question for you, my friend, what do YOU have to be thankful for this year? God bless you as you take inventory of all His blessings in your life!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Thanksgiving is coming!
Turkey in the oven, something boiling on the stove.
Cranberry sauce shining bright red, the scents through the whole house rove.
There’s dressing, and sweet potatoes, rolls and pecan pie on the side,
Gravy’s smellin’ good now, let’s take a crisp fall ride -
To Mom’s house on Thanksgiving Day, flavors plenty we’ll enjoy.
We’ll eat too much and fellowship, we’ll drink a little, oh boy!
We never tire of this holiday, for the warmth and friendship fill –
Our house with bodies, big and small, and laughter; until –
We can’t move off the couch ‘cuz we ate and ate and ate.
Cuz the turkey is all gone now, and the pie was so darn great!
by
Bess Blanco
Cranberry sauce shining bright red, the scents through the whole house rove.
There’s dressing, and sweet potatoes, rolls and pecan pie on the side,
Gravy’s smellin’ good now, let’s take a crisp fall ride -
To Mom’s house on Thanksgiving Day, flavors plenty we’ll enjoy.
We’ll eat too much and fellowship, we’ll drink a little, oh boy!
We never tire of this holiday, for the warmth and friendship fill –
Our house with bodies, big and small, and laughter; until –
We can’t move off the couch ‘cuz we ate and ate and ate.
Cuz the turkey is all gone now, and the pie was so darn great!
by
Bess Blanco
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
I’m loving my life today. Not that today is any different than other days. I’m just feeling overwhelmed with thankfulness today. I am so blessed. Sitting here in my beautiful, safe home at my awesome computer working on a book that is glorifying God here on earth. This project has been incubating inside of me for a long time now, and the urge to tell this story has risen up in me like a flood. I’m ready to bare open my heart and soul for the sake of other Christians who are looking for hope and Word knowledge on who they really are and why they are here.
I am so blessed with the family I have; my healthy, beautiful kids and their incredible daddy. Jovanni is my little man, loving, tender and on fire for the kingdom. Isabella and her thoughtful ways, Gigi and her contagious joy, and AnaSophia and her energy, spark and delightful hugs and kisses every day.
Juan is the best man I could have ever asked for. I wouldn’t have thought to ask for someone like him, and I’m so glad I was young and stupid when I said yes! He loves me and these kids with agape love, and he teaches me every day. By his example of faithfulness, and constancy, he teaches me. He is my rock.
Do you ever get a little scared when life is really, really, good – almost like in a “I don’t deserve this” kind of way. I used to feel that way, until I realized that this is the life our Father wants for us, the good life. When we are healthy and balanced, we can give to and do for others. We can disciple the nations, just like He told us to do.
Life isn’t perfect, that wouldn’t be realistic, but I have joy. I’m not “happy,” I just have a joy because of Christ. Thank you Lord, for Who you are – make us more like you!!!
I am so blessed with the family I have; my healthy, beautiful kids and their incredible daddy. Jovanni is my little man, loving, tender and on fire for the kingdom. Isabella and her thoughtful ways, Gigi and her contagious joy, and AnaSophia and her energy, spark and delightful hugs and kisses every day.
Juan is the best man I could have ever asked for. I wouldn’t have thought to ask for someone like him, and I’m so glad I was young and stupid when I said yes! He loves me and these kids with agape love, and he teaches me every day. By his example of faithfulness, and constancy, he teaches me. He is my rock.
Do you ever get a little scared when life is really, really, good – almost like in a “I don’t deserve this” kind of way. I used to feel that way, until I realized that this is the life our Father wants for us, the good life. When we are healthy and balanced, we can give to and do for others. We can disciple the nations, just like He told us to do.
Life isn’t perfect, that wouldn’t be realistic, but I have joy. I’m not “happy,” I just have a joy because of Christ. Thank you Lord, for Who you are – make us more like you!!!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Autumn Delights
I love every season in its time, and try to enjoy it accordingly. Summer in southeast Texas, however, is difficult to enjoy. Its too hot for too long, with no respite in the evenings or mornings, and even when it rains, the air doesn't cool off. It just hangs heavy with even more humidity.
So today, when the promised "cold front" blew in and chilled the morning off considerably, I was not sad. The girls were excited to dress in long sleeved blouses and pull out their new sweaters. Sophie wore leggings and a fall dress to Miss Mimi's house, happy to be bundled in the new chill.
I have decided autum is my new favorite season, with it's chillier air, and savory smells of pumkin candles and baking bread. The cooler temperatures stir up my innate desire to bake all kinds of goodies, and the kids get excited about the trip to the pumkin patch. It's a wonderful season, with warm memories being made and preparations for the holidays that are coming 'round the corner. It'll be great weather, fun times and cool autumn community events. Great weather, that is, until the cold front blows over and out and the temps hit the 90's again, with the "feel" being in the hundreds!
So today, when the promised "cold front" blew in and chilled the morning off considerably, I was not sad. The girls were excited to dress in long sleeved blouses and pull out their new sweaters. Sophie wore leggings and a fall dress to Miss Mimi's house, happy to be bundled in the new chill.
I have decided autum is my new favorite season, with it's chillier air, and savory smells of pumkin candles and baking bread. The cooler temperatures stir up my innate desire to bake all kinds of goodies, and the kids get excited about the trip to the pumkin patch. It's a wonderful season, with warm memories being made and preparations for the holidays that are coming 'round the corner. It'll be great weather, fun times and cool autumn community events. Great weather, that is, until the cold front blows over and out and the temps hit the 90's again, with the "feel" being in the hundreds!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
What's Ducks Got to Do With It?
The weather was gorgeous Sunday evening when my husband and I decided to get our exercise at the local park. It was Labor Day weekend, so many families surrounded the lake with their fishing poles, picnic baskets, and family dogs. Squirrels scuttled down hundred year old oaks, and babies squealed from their strollers as we breathed in the changing early autumn air! Our youngest, Sophie, rode in her stroller, happy to be out and about, observing the active scene along with us. As we walked and talked, she began to get restless, so we decided to stop and let her run off some energy near the water.
She immediately ran up to the edge of the water, as a group of ducks was busy scrounging through some algae, gulping it down as if it was their last meal. I squatted down near them, as Sophie chattered to them, trying to get close enough to pet them.
It was then that I noticed that there was a larger duck, quacking out orders to a group of about a half dozen medium-size ducks. “Oh, Babe,” I called to Juan, “It’s a mama duck and her teenagers!!!” He laughed, as we realized I was right, and then we really started watching the young family. The mother duck paddled off towards the center of the lake, commanding her “kids” to follow her. Only two of her young ones followed closely, while four of them continued to scrounge frantically at the lake’s edge, muttering quacks out to her. I narrated their duck language for Juan. “Look Babe,” I told him, “They’re telling her, ‘We’re coming, we’re coming mom! Just gimme a minute’!”
We laughed at the ducks, as they treated their mother’s concerns as annoying and unnecessary, much like my pre-teen son sometimes does! It occurred to me that animals in nature are often similar in behavior to us humans. We’ve seen the same ducks, as tiny hatchlings, stay constantly close to their mother, tumbling after her at all times, desperate for her reassurance and approval! Then, as they grow, they slowly gain confidence in themselves and their own capabilities. I noticed that the mother duck didn’t insist on the “teenagers” coming with her at wing’s distance, instead, she gave them their necessary freedom. Soon, due to her innate mothering skills, those “teens” would be ready to take complete care of themselves, and eventually, their own “kids!”
We walked away from the ducks feeling that we had learned a real lesson from a good mom. We must let our children grow, giving them enough discipline to help them choose wisely, but yet knowing when to give them that necessary freedom. Oh, and by the way, I don’t think that duck mama was hung up on any past regrets or mistakes, either!
She immediately ran up to the edge of the water, as a group of ducks was busy scrounging through some algae, gulping it down as if it was their last meal. I squatted down near them, as Sophie chattered to them, trying to get close enough to pet them.
It was then that I noticed that there was a larger duck, quacking out orders to a group of about a half dozen medium-size ducks. “Oh, Babe,” I called to Juan, “It’s a mama duck and her teenagers!!!” He laughed, as we realized I was right, and then we really started watching the young family. The mother duck paddled off towards the center of the lake, commanding her “kids” to follow her. Only two of her young ones followed closely, while four of them continued to scrounge frantically at the lake’s edge, muttering quacks out to her. I narrated their duck language for Juan. “Look Babe,” I told him, “They’re telling her, ‘We’re coming, we’re coming mom! Just gimme a minute’!”
We laughed at the ducks, as they treated their mother’s concerns as annoying and unnecessary, much like my pre-teen son sometimes does! It occurred to me that animals in nature are often similar in behavior to us humans. We’ve seen the same ducks, as tiny hatchlings, stay constantly close to their mother, tumbling after her at all times, desperate for her reassurance and approval! Then, as they grow, they slowly gain confidence in themselves and their own capabilities. I noticed that the mother duck didn’t insist on the “teenagers” coming with her at wing’s distance, instead, she gave them their necessary freedom. Soon, due to her innate mothering skills, those “teens” would be ready to take complete care of themselves, and eventually, their own “kids!”
We walked away from the ducks feeling that we had learned a real lesson from a good mom. We must let our children grow, giving them enough discipline to help them choose wisely, but yet knowing when to give them that necessary freedom. Oh, and by the way, I don’t think that duck mama was hung up on any past regrets or mistakes, either!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Rain is my Favorite!
Rain is my favorite. There is no such thing for me as too much rain. Yes, it's bad for some business, bad for traffic, and around the Houston area, really bad for flooding. I love it just the same. Rain inspires me, comforts me, and refreshes me.
Coming from the desert, there is never enough rain to make me happy...
So today it's raining solid. It's been raining since early this morning, and it hasn't stopped all day. The sky is a beautiful color grey, there is a thrilling chill in the air, and I, for one, am enjoying the respite from the previous record-breaking heat we've experienced all summer. I don't know about you, but I'm ready for autumn.
Today is most likely just a cruel tease, though, since the rain is the run off from Tropical Storm Hermine, but I'll take it. I'm ready for sweater tops and boots, dresses with leggings, and early mornings on the back porch with my coffee, meditating on the coming day. I've decided that September is my new favorite month, with the bearable temperatures, fall veggies, and gorgeous sunsets.
So I'll enjoy today, tease or not, as I ready myself for yet another change in life's ever-changing face.
Coming from the desert, there is never enough rain to make me happy...
So today it's raining solid. It's been raining since early this morning, and it hasn't stopped all day. The sky is a beautiful color grey, there is a thrilling chill in the air, and I, for one, am enjoying the respite from the previous record-breaking heat we've experienced all summer. I don't know about you, but I'm ready for autumn.
Today is most likely just a cruel tease, though, since the rain is the run off from Tropical Storm Hermine, but I'll take it. I'm ready for sweater tops and boots, dresses with leggings, and early mornings on the back porch with my coffee, meditating on the coming day. I've decided that September is my new favorite month, with the bearable temperatures, fall veggies, and gorgeous sunsets.
So I'll enjoy today, tease or not, as I ready myself for yet another change in life's ever-changing face.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Early in the morning...
The house sits hushed, even the very earliest birds in the trees outside are singing quietly. I grab my decaf coffee (I know, what’s the point then, right?!) and look back at my beckoning bed, sitting there, empty and lonely. Ohhh, I don’t want to be up right now, sleep sounds so delightful… Sighing, I turn away with new determination to climb those stairs and start a new life. I know God has been telling me to do this.
I cruise through each kid’s bedroom (I love to look at them when they are sleeping!). Smiling, I silently thank God as I watch Sophie, her lanky body and strawberry blonde hair. For how quiet she is when she is sleeping. Bella looks like a princess, snuggled up in her fluffy comforter, freckles visible even in the early morning light. Like the princess that she knows she is. The next room over, Giana sleeps with vigor. That’s just like her. She’s probably plotting her next move in her dreams right now. Jovanni has his hand against his angelic cheek, like the Thinker. That’s just like him, too, always thinking. Lacey lies next to Jov, curled into the crook of his legs, happy to be her.
I wonder, what do I look like when I’m sleeping? Am I pulling my hair out then, too?!
As the computer comes to life, I realize…It is so quiet! I had previously thought that too much quiet could be a problem. How could I write without breaking up an argument every few minutes? Or without hearing “Appuh joosh, Mommy!!!” in scream form ringing in my ear.
I’ve decided, however, that I like this quiet, strange as the theory is. To think, I wanted to go back to bed! No, I’m ready now, I believe (yawn). Ready to use these precious moments of early morning, where no child roams this house yet today, and heed the calling I have to promote the Kingdom of God on paper!
For the first time in a long time, I click on my program first, resisting the natural urge to check my email or go on facebook. I’m like an addict refusing to turn back! Wow, I’m excited now! Ready! Going forward…oh, how beautiful – the sun just popped up over the horizon, and I had to watch it…Haven’t seen that in too long. Yes, Lord, I’ll obey.
I cruise through each kid’s bedroom (I love to look at them when they are sleeping!). Smiling, I silently thank God as I watch Sophie, her lanky body and strawberry blonde hair. For how quiet she is when she is sleeping. Bella looks like a princess, snuggled up in her fluffy comforter, freckles visible even in the early morning light. Like the princess that she knows she is. The next room over, Giana sleeps with vigor. That’s just like her. She’s probably plotting her next move in her dreams right now. Jovanni has his hand against his angelic cheek, like the Thinker. That’s just like him, too, always thinking. Lacey lies next to Jov, curled into the crook of his legs, happy to be her.
I wonder, what do I look like when I’m sleeping? Am I pulling my hair out then, too?!
As the computer comes to life, I realize…It is so quiet! I had previously thought that too much quiet could be a problem. How could I write without breaking up an argument every few minutes? Or without hearing “Appuh joosh, Mommy!!!” in scream form ringing in my ear.
I’ve decided, however, that I like this quiet, strange as the theory is. To think, I wanted to go back to bed! No, I’m ready now, I believe (yawn). Ready to use these precious moments of early morning, where no child roams this house yet today, and heed the calling I have to promote the Kingdom of God on paper!
For the first time in a long time, I click on my program first, resisting the natural urge to check my email or go on facebook. I’m like an addict refusing to turn back! Wow, I’m excited now! Ready! Going forward…oh, how beautiful – the sun just popped up over the horizon, and I had to watch it…Haven’t seen that in too long. Yes, Lord, I’ll obey.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Just musing while in Arizona
The best part about Southern Arizona is the cool breezes after the sun goes down. No matter what the high temperature was that the unending sunshine brought on by the day, the sunset brings refreshment and rest. Oh, how I miss the crisp evenings. I’m sitting out here writing, at 8:00, no mosquitos in existence here, on mi suegra’s back porch. In fact, I haven’t slapped a leg or arm once for any kind of biting creature!
The second best thing is the sky. Oh, what a sight! The clear, open, friendly sky. Reds, pinks and purples spread in gorgeous harmony across the mountain ridges as the sun and its heat slowly disappears behind them. The stars, one by one, appear in clarity in the deep blue heavens. As the sky gradually grows darker, the stars multiply and soon, the Big Dipper sits in its regal majesty mid-sky. The Milky Way glistens, and the sliver of hopeful moon smiles sideways at me, happily back in my desert, at least for now.
Growing up, I either had to develop an appreciation for the desert, or be miserable in the ridiculous heat that overtakes this land with no reward. Dry, thirsty shrubs spread over the dusty landscape, with a cactus here and there amongst the stones and brush. The mesquite trees provide the respite from the harsh rays, and even then the shade is a tease. But I found the beauty here – beauty I still appreciate. The way the dry, sandy soil would smell after a fresh summer rain, and the rocks would shine because the dust was washed off their surface.
As kids, we had overactive imaginations (my husband would argue that mine has never faded!) and when the monsoons came, our front porch became a pirate ship in a raging sea storm. In drier times, we built forts on the ridges of the arroyos. We were John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. We were cowboys and Indians, ranchers and outlaws, scientists and inventors. It took no money and even less effort on our parent’s part for our imaginations to invent days, weeks, and then years worth of fun and fulfillment! On those long summer days that we would lounge in front of the air conditioner, our bodies lazy from the draining heat of the Arizona sun. Then, when the relief of the evening came, out the door we would go, enjoying the desert and all its hidden charm.
Sometimes I'm sad for today's kids, who seem to need to spend money or have all the newest gadgets and electronics to be entertained. I wonder where their imaginations have hidden!
The second best thing is the sky. Oh, what a sight! The clear, open, friendly sky. Reds, pinks and purples spread in gorgeous harmony across the mountain ridges as the sun and its heat slowly disappears behind them. The stars, one by one, appear in clarity in the deep blue heavens. As the sky gradually grows darker, the stars multiply and soon, the Big Dipper sits in its regal majesty mid-sky. The Milky Way glistens, and the sliver of hopeful moon smiles sideways at me, happily back in my desert, at least for now.
Growing up, I either had to develop an appreciation for the desert, or be miserable in the ridiculous heat that overtakes this land with no reward. Dry, thirsty shrubs spread over the dusty landscape, with a cactus here and there amongst the stones and brush. The mesquite trees provide the respite from the harsh rays, and even then the shade is a tease. But I found the beauty here – beauty I still appreciate. The way the dry, sandy soil would smell after a fresh summer rain, and the rocks would shine because the dust was washed off their surface.
As kids, we had overactive imaginations (my husband would argue that mine has never faded!) and when the monsoons came, our front porch became a pirate ship in a raging sea storm. In drier times, we built forts on the ridges of the arroyos. We were John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. We were cowboys and Indians, ranchers and outlaws, scientists and inventors. It took no money and even less effort on our parent’s part for our imaginations to invent days, weeks, and then years worth of fun and fulfillment! On those long summer days that we would lounge in front of the air conditioner, our bodies lazy from the draining heat of the Arizona sun. Then, when the relief of the evening came, out the door we would go, enjoying the desert and all its hidden charm.
Sometimes I'm sad for today's kids, who seem to need to spend money or have all the newest gadgets and electronics to be entertained. I wonder where their imaginations have hidden!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
GiGi, at the ripe old age of six, has it all figured out! Why does she have to go to school these last few days, when all they do is play and do projects? “We’re not doing anything school, Mom.” She huffily pointed out a couple of nights ago. “Why can’t I just be done with school NOW?!” She’s right, they’re not doing anything academic. She’s done – done with school for this year. She’s been fed up since a couple of months ago, when she decided she didn’t like Ms. Brasier, the poor young woman who has to teach my six-year-old!
It’s been an adjustment this year for her, and her siblings, as they went from their much-loved elementary school in Arizona to two different schools here, since we moved twice. Once to get here to Texas, another to our new (and hopefully permanent for at least five years!) house. We’ve only lived in a house for three years at a time. Here, I’m really ok with not moving for a while.
So, back to GiGi. While I’m writing this, she is attending her LAST day of school for the year! She’ll have exactly 11 weeks with NO school! She thinks she’s excited, but she is a high-maintenance firecracker of a kid, and keeping her from the b-word (boredom) this summer is my greatest challenge! So far, on the roster is our vacation (we leave later today!) camp (only one week ), VBS, swimming, camping, day trips to Houston, swimming, time with friends, swimming, and more swimming. Thank God we have a community pool and splashpad! It is going to save my tushie this summer.
It’s been an adjustment this year for her, and her siblings, as they went from their much-loved elementary school in Arizona to two different schools here, since we moved twice. Once to get here to Texas, another to our new (and hopefully permanent for at least five years!) house. We’ve only lived in a house for three years at a time. Here, I’m really ok with not moving for a while.
So, back to GiGi. While I’m writing this, she is attending her LAST day of school for the year! She’ll have exactly 11 weeks with NO school! She thinks she’s excited, but she is a high-maintenance firecracker of a kid, and keeping her from the b-word (boredom) this summer is my greatest challenge! So far, on the roster is our vacation (we leave later today!) camp (only one week ), VBS, swimming, camping, day trips to Houston, swimming, time with friends, swimming, and more swimming. Thank God we have a community pool and splashpad! It is going to save my tushie this summer.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Time to say it!
So I have decided that I’m now a full-time serious writer. I know, that’s what I believed I was doing in the last couple of months, right? Well, yes, but not the full-time part. And not the serious part. So, I guess I wasn’t doing that at all! I’ve started a couple of blogs, had 2-3 ideas for a book, even wrote the outline for one. I haven’t committed to this goal exactly like I know how to. That all changes write now. I mean right now!
I am giving myself, Lord willing, two years to make it. What do I mean by make it? To actually pull in an input to the income. To get a demand for the skill and talent that God has placed in me from editors, not just my family members! To invest my time wisely, plan my life accordingly, and be a witness to the world through the written word of God’s immense grace and love for us all. And ultimately, have published several articles in magazines, and a book (or two!) would be exciting!
Forget failure, that is not how I live! Stopping is not an option. Giving up for any reason is not an option. Neglecting the work necessary is also not an option. The only option is to write in His will, bless the work by His authority, and watch Him work through me in a way I only dreamed about before!
So faithful fans out there, say a prayer for me when you think of me, and I look forward to telling your testimony someday. As well as my new one!
God bless me an’ you!
I am giving myself, Lord willing, two years to make it. What do I mean by make it? To actually pull in an input to the income. To get a demand for the skill and talent that God has placed in me from editors, not just my family members! To invest my time wisely, plan my life accordingly, and be a witness to the world through the written word of God’s immense grace and love for us all. And ultimately, have published several articles in magazines, and a book (or two!) would be exciting!
Forget failure, that is not how I live! Stopping is not an option. Giving up for any reason is not an option. Neglecting the work necessary is also not an option. The only option is to write in His will, bless the work by His authority, and watch Him work through me in a way I only dreamed about before!
So faithful fans out there, say a prayer for me when you think of me, and I look forward to telling your testimony someday. As well as my new one!
God bless me an’ you!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
To my brother Rich
To my brother Rich,
What the enemy meant for harm…
We understand each other as siblings so deeply, always have. Through all the years of our childhood, we held a bond in our hearts. We had a love and closeness that our other siblings envied…
We were moved away at a young age from everything and everyone we knew, from the lush green landscape of Northern Illinois to the dry and dusty desert of Southern Arizona…
We were not even allowed to say goodbye to our closest friends from school and play…
We were moved from a two-story farmhouse to a fourteen foot trailer we called our “house” for the next two years…
Our home was in constant turmoil, leaving us stressed, burdened and bitter. Our parents taught us Christianity with their words, and whole other way of living with their actions…
The abuse we suffered at the hands of those who were most trusted, and in authority over our young lives…
The isolation was draining, especially on us naturally social siblings…
There were good times, though mostly hard times…
Both of us married young, both of us lived through a divorce, brought children into this world, and both of us now walk with our Savior daily!
We made so many mistakes, sinned and fell short of Him so many times…
We’ve disappointed each other, momentarily hated each other, betrayed each other…
We are, however, RESTORED, REDEEMED, REBUILT, RIGHTEOUS IN HIM, HEALTHY, SUCCESSFUL, EXCITED TO BE HIS MINISTERS, and FABULOUS PARENTS (Just ask our kids!)!!!
We are all these things through the unfailing, incredible grace and mercy of our Father and Friend, GOD!!! He brought us back to Him, He blesses us now, and I am so glad I get to share this journey with you, Rich. My stubborn, strong, fiercely loving, kind, faith-filled, and just overall, fantastic brother!
So what the enemy ALWAYS means for harm, Jesus has turned for our good! I love you, Rich.
What the enemy meant for harm…
We understand each other as siblings so deeply, always have. Through all the years of our childhood, we held a bond in our hearts. We had a love and closeness that our other siblings envied…
We were moved away at a young age from everything and everyone we knew, from the lush green landscape of Northern Illinois to the dry and dusty desert of Southern Arizona…
We were not even allowed to say goodbye to our closest friends from school and play…
We were moved from a two-story farmhouse to a fourteen foot trailer we called our “house” for the next two years…
Our home was in constant turmoil, leaving us stressed, burdened and bitter. Our parents taught us Christianity with their words, and whole other way of living with their actions…
The abuse we suffered at the hands of those who were most trusted, and in authority over our young lives…
The isolation was draining, especially on us naturally social siblings…
There were good times, though mostly hard times…
Both of us married young, both of us lived through a divorce, brought children into this world, and both of us now walk with our Savior daily!
We made so many mistakes, sinned and fell short of Him so many times…
We’ve disappointed each other, momentarily hated each other, betrayed each other…
We are, however, RESTORED, REDEEMED, REBUILT, RIGHTEOUS IN HIM, HEALTHY, SUCCESSFUL, EXCITED TO BE HIS MINISTERS, and FABULOUS PARENTS (Just ask our kids!)!!!
We are all these things through the unfailing, incredible grace and mercy of our Father and Friend, GOD!!! He brought us back to Him, He blesses us now, and I am so glad I get to share this journey with you, Rich. My stubborn, strong, fiercely loving, kind, faith-filled, and just overall, fantastic brother!
So what the enemy ALWAYS means for harm, Jesus has turned for our good! I love you, Rich.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Spring in Southeast Texas - Beautiful!
Humidity can be a good thing, in a small amount. As April is progressing here in Southeast Texas, that small amount is growing! As a gardener and nature lover, I love it! The lettuce is already forming small bunches, and I’m salivating at the thought of homegrown salad! My parsley, basil, chives and dill are turning into miniature herb fields, and the okra, peppers and tomatoes are all growing nicely. The flowers here…don’t get me started! My gladiolas are about to burst into bloom at any moment, the deep pink impatiens have become weeds, and the geraniums in red, white and pink are brilliant in the front yard.
So, humidity and I get along just fine. Without the rain, moisture and mist, my garden and flower babies wouldn’t look the same. Trust me, I’ve lived without it! The roadsides in town are amazing, lit up with rose and violet azaleas, which grow like roses here. Further out of town, into the countryside (my favorite place!), the wildflowers grow in abundance, like a flag spread over the meadows.
The critters are also coming out, saying hello to a new year, a new season of warmth and growth. Some are wanted, some are not…like the young cottonmouth we found in our backyard last week! The birds sound like life to me, with their tweeting, whistles and sometimes, songs. They are little pests, as in stealing the first fruits from my strawberry plants! I love them and the perky spirit they bring, though, just the same.
All the babies signify that the winter is through, new birth is here! Driving home just a couple of days ago, the kids and I saw four little calves romping in the field together, leaping and frolicking while their mothers grazed calmly nearby! We’ve seen more foals this spring in Texas, in front yards and on neighboring ranches, than we have in a lifetime elsewhere. Baby ducks, baby chicks – they’re everywhere. Watching babies never gets old!
New life – that’s what spring means to me, and I appreciate every minute of the season. Is spring a favorite time of year for you? Do you have any spring babies to talk about? I’d love to hear your spring story!
So, humidity and I get along just fine. Without the rain, moisture and mist, my garden and flower babies wouldn’t look the same. Trust me, I’ve lived without it! The roadsides in town are amazing, lit up with rose and violet azaleas, which grow like roses here. Further out of town, into the countryside (my favorite place!), the wildflowers grow in abundance, like a flag spread over the meadows.
The critters are also coming out, saying hello to a new year, a new season of warmth and growth. Some are wanted, some are not…like the young cottonmouth we found in our backyard last week! The birds sound like life to me, with their tweeting, whistles and sometimes, songs. They are little pests, as in stealing the first fruits from my strawberry plants! I love them and the perky spirit they bring, though, just the same.
All the babies signify that the winter is through, new birth is here! Driving home just a couple of days ago, the kids and I saw four little calves romping in the field together, leaping and frolicking while their mothers grazed calmly nearby! We’ve seen more foals this spring in Texas, in front yards and on neighboring ranches, than we have in a lifetime elsewhere. Baby ducks, baby chicks – they’re everywhere. Watching babies never gets old!
New life – that’s what spring means to me, and I appreciate every minute of the season. Is spring a favorite time of year for you? Do you have any spring babies to talk about? I’d love to hear your spring story!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Martine - Dauntless Diva - My Sister
Just a musing on my younger sister, Martine, and her impact on my life. There are eight siblings in my family, I fall third oldest, Martine, second from youngest. There is seven years between us, and as you can imagine, this left quite a considerable gap in our relationship. She was the pain-in-my-butt sister, always “in the way” and if I didn’t prep her with plenty of threats in time, she was our “mole” to mom! What I failed to recognize out of my teenage intolerance of her, was that she really adored me, wanted to follow me in most things, and just had the innate desire we all do - to belong.
Martine is one of those people who is impenetrable in Spirit. No matter what occurs in life, she thinks the best of the situation, the people, the circumstances. She was like that as a girl, she’s even more like that now. She would sing all the time, sing in the bathroom, sing over cooking dinner, sing getting ready for bed. No wonder she loves opera, and she’s good at it because she was in training all those years!
She always enjoyed everything so much – riding in the “bus” of a van as kids, crowded, so many different moods at play. “Oh, what a lovely day to be going to the mountains!” she would state, breaking into song for all of us to hear. Having lunch during a hot, dry day of homeschooling, “Oh, this tastes sooo delicious!” (Peanut butter and jelly.) Her favorite words, “marvelous,” “lovely,” and “wonderful.” The sky was always blue, the sun always shining to Martine.
Despite her contagious joy, I was a bully to her for years, waving her unimportant self off with my “dominant” hand, ignoring her pleas for attention and value, and generally in a state of annoyance toward her for most of her first eleven years. Then, after I left home, starting my own family at the ripe young age of eighteen, I softened. Towards her free and youthful Spirit, innocent wide eyes, and cup-half-full outlook. Not only did she forgive my roughness with her tender-heart, she pretended (or unbelievably really did not hold grudges!) all those mean things I said, or rude ways I treated her. That my critical spirit hadn’t really impacted her. Whatever the case, we don’t talk about it. We’ve had many sister-to-sister talks since, and she is always supportive of my dreams (some faded as they are) and life happenings. I worry for her, because she is much too innocent for this harsh world we live in. She is an adult though. Wiser for her hardships, hopeful in her sufferings. I am proud of her, a writer, an opera singer, an actress, a model, a beautiful young woman who lives life in joy, compassion, hope and truth. She is a victim magnet because she is an over comer. They want to feed off her, learn from her, break into the secret of her inner strength that shines like a beacon in a wanting world.
If you would like a taste of the inspiration this young woman has to offer, check her out on her website at dauntlessdiva.com. May she continue in her path of positivity, growing every day into the purposeful woman she loves to be.
I love you Sis, and I’m glad you’re in my life!
Martine is one of those people who is impenetrable in Spirit. No matter what occurs in life, she thinks the best of the situation, the people, the circumstances. She was like that as a girl, she’s even more like that now. She would sing all the time, sing in the bathroom, sing over cooking dinner, sing getting ready for bed. No wonder she loves opera, and she’s good at it because she was in training all those years!
She always enjoyed everything so much – riding in the “bus” of a van as kids, crowded, so many different moods at play. “Oh, what a lovely day to be going to the mountains!” she would state, breaking into song for all of us to hear. Having lunch during a hot, dry day of homeschooling, “Oh, this tastes sooo delicious!” (Peanut butter and jelly.) Her favorite words, “marvelous,” “lovely,” and “wonderful.” The sky was always blue, the sun always shining to Martine.
Despite her contagious joy, I was a bully to her for years, waving her unimportant self off with my “dominant” hand, ignoring her pleas for attention and value, and generally in a state of annoyance toward her for most of her first eleven years. Then, after I left home, starting my own family at the ripe young age of eighteen, I softened. Towards her free and youthful Spirit, innocent wide eyes, and cup-half-full outlook. Not only did she forgive my roughness with her tender-heart, she pretended (or unbelievably really did not hold grudges!) all those mean things I said, or rude ways I treated her. That my critical spirit hadn’t really impacted her. Whatever the case, we don’t talk about it. We’ve had many sister-to-sister talks since, and she is always supportive of my dreams (some faded as they are) and life happenings. I worry for her, because she is much too innocent for this harsh world we live in. She is an adult though. Wiser for her hardships, hopeful in her sufferings. I am proud of her, a writer, an opera singer, an actress, a model, a beautiful young woman who lives life in joy, compassion, hope and truth. She is a victim magnet because she is an over comer. They want to feed off her, learn from her, break into the secret of her inner strength that shines like a beacon in a wanting world.
If you would like a taste of the inspiration this young woman has to offer, check her out on her website at dauntlessdiva.com. May she continue in her path of positivity, growing every day into the purposeful woman she loves to be.
I love you Sis, and I’m glad you’re in my life!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
AnaSophia - never a dull moment!
I just realized that you and I are getting to know each other some now, and I haven’t really shared with you much about my family! So, I am going to introduce to mi ninos, one at a time! We’ll start with Sophie. AnaSophia is our baby who is two, and she is a fierce individual. Fiercely loving, and fiercely strong. She is also one of the most stubborn children I’ve ever met. She tries to run the house, her siblings, and her father and I. And most of the time, she succeeds!
I love her absolutely, but she makes me tired! She and Bella have a strong bond, and she uses that to its full potential. If I am yelling at Bella over something, she comes up to me and says “Mom!” – like, “Stop picking on Bella!” Lately, she has grown closer with her nemesis, GiGi. It started just a few days ago when she started calling her sister by name “DeeDee.” “DeeDee this, DeeDee that!” So now, I can’t yell at “DeeDee” either. THEY can fight and argue, but the minute I discipline her sister, she’s at her defense in jibber jabber talk!
Sophie is our singer. She sings in the car, she sings in her bed before nap, she sings in the kitchen while I prepare dinner. And every song is to the tune of “ABCDEFG…” Some words are recognizable, like “Daddy,” however. Most are not! So, you hear “Gagaga jibber jabber Daddy! Dooo doo baa baba Mommy doo!” It is adorable!
She is a happy little girl with sunshiney eyes. She reminds me of my Grandpa, and his eyes. They sparkle when he is happy, and when he smiles, he lights up the room! Her eyes are a green-blue, and she has a large dimple in her left cheek that’ll knock your socks off. She was our surprise and every day, she brings new surprises to our family’s life. Never a dull moment with Sophie around!
Yesterday, she was eating her sandwich at the lunch table, when I noticed her talking to Lacey, our “doggie.” She was putting her half-eaten sandwich down towards the dog, then, just as Lacey would longingly head toward the food, Sophie would jerk it back, and say “No, doggie!” Then she laughed hysterically, as Lacey tilted her little head quizzically at her. How funny! (She can be a little mean!)
She loves dresses, and swirls and twirls in them to see if they flare in the breeze. Her Abuelita sent her some new ones recently, and she gets excited just to put them on. As cute and springy as she looks in them, she is a pure hillbilly like her Mama, because she absolutely refuses to wear shoes! She turns down just about every pair she receives, and we have a heck of a time getting them on her. She has really large feet (she’s gonna be tall) and shoes are just NOT comfortable! Pobrecita!
So that is a little about Sophie. You’ll hear more about her as time goes on, for sure. She is never boring, and brings the final spice to complete our family recipe!
I love her absolutely, but she makes me tired! She and Bella have a strong bond, and she uses that to its full potential. If I am yelling at Bella over something, she comes up to me and says “Mom!” – like, “Stop picking on Bella!” Lately, she has grown closer with her nemesis, GiGi. It started just a few days ago when she started calling her sister by name “DeeDee.” “DeeDee this, DeeDee that!” So now, I can’t yell at “DeeDee” either. THEY can fight and argue, but the minute I discipline her sister, she’s at her defense in jibber jabber talk!
Sophie is our singer. She sings in the car, she sings in her bed before nap, she sings in the kitchen while I prepare dinner. And every song is to the tune of “ABCDEFG…” Some words are recognizable, like “Daddy,” however. Most are not! So, you hear “Gagaga jibber jabber Daddy! Dooo doo baa baba Mommy doo!” It is adorable!
She is a happy little girl with sunshiney eyes. She reminds me of my Grandpa, and his eyes. They sparkle when he is happy, and when he smiles, he lights up the room! Her eyes are a green-blue, and she has a large dimple in her left cheek that’ll knock your socks off. She was our surprise and every day, she brings new surprises to our family’s life. Never a dull moment with Sophie around!
Yesterday, she was eating her sandwich at the lunch table, when I noticed her talking to Lacey, our “doggie.” She was putting her half-eaten sandwich down towards the dog, then, just as Lacey would longingly head toward the food, Sophie would jerk it back, and say “No, doggie!” Then she laughed hysterically, as Lacey tilted her little head quizzically at her. How funny! (She can be a little mean!)
She loves dresses, and swirls and twirls in them to see if they flare in the breeze. Her Abuelita sent her some new ones recently, and she gets excited just to put them on. As cute and springy as she looks in them, she is a pure hillbilly like her Mama, because she absolutely refuses to wear shoes! She turns down just about every pair she receives, and we have a heck of a time getting them on her. She has really large feet (she’s gonna be tall) and shoes are just NOT comfortable! Pobrecita!
So that is a little about Sophie. You’ll hear more about her as time goes on, for sure. She is never boring, and brings the final spice to complete our family recipe!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Sometimes it is Good to Get Away
Sometimes it’s good to just get away from it all. That’s what our family did this past weekend, we went to visit family in San Antonio. We met a cousin we’d never met, and got to know one that we hadn’t seen in almost three years. We played at a country park in the warm spring sun and sand on Sunday, and later on, we were tourists for a day at the Riverwalk and Alamo.
No computer, no work, just play, play, play! Papi Juan even got down in the dirt with the little ones, and I seesawed with mi ninas. Tio Jeff and Tio Byron grilled hamburgers and hotdogs, and los ninos “spanked” the Spongebob piñata until lots of candy fell out! Sophie cuddled with Tia Iliana while Spongebob was getting tortured, because she is afraid of the loud noise, and everyone yelling “Dare, dare, dare!” (“Hit it!”)
Later on, we parked in a downtown parking garage on the sixth floor, and our adventure was started! We rode the boat up the river and got to hear about who killed who back in 1852! On the boat, we met two very beautiful girls who are from China, but have American mommies and daddies. They are five and six, but they said they are sisters, and share a birthday. I know, it was confusing to us too! The girls had been adopted out of China, and even though their individual families live in Nevada and Pennsylvania, they keep the girls connected to each other and their roots through trips like these. I’ll never forget those girls and those incredible parents who gave them an opportunity at life.
We toured the Alamo, and took lots of pretty pictures, as everything is already in bloom and green there! The kids got so tired of me saying, “OK, stand over there, in front of that purple tree, now, smile!” They would go, “Oh, mom!” But out came the smiles anyway. Bunch of hams!
Then we bought some cotton candy from a street vendor, and everyone’s fingers and faces were sticky. Later, we saw baby ducks with a mommy duck in the River. They were so tiny and cute! You know it is officially spring when there is baby ducks!
Tired, sticky and dusty, by nightfall we were headed home through the scenic drive between San Antonio and Katy. Green fields, tractors tilling up the hay fields to get ready for planting, and plenty of cows greeted us from the roadside. It is a beautiful life, and we are grateful to be living it!
No computer, no work, just play, play, play! Papi Juan even got down in the dirt with the little ones, and I seesawed with mi ninas. Tio Jeff and Tio Byron grilled hamburgers and hotdogs, and los ninos “spanked” the Spongebob piñata until lots of candy fell out! Sophie cuddled with Tia Iliana while Spongebob was getting tortured, because she is afraid of the loud noise, and everyone yelling “Dare, dare, dare!” (“Hit it!”)
Later on, we parked in a downtown parking garage on the sixth floor, and our adventure was started! We rode the boat up the river and got to hear about who killed who back in 1852! On the boat, we met two very beautiful girls who are from China, but have American mommies and daddies. They are five and six, but they said they are sisters, and share a birthday. I know, it was confusing to us too! The girls had been adopted out of China, and even though their individual families live in Nevada and Pennsylvania, they keep the girls connected to each other and their roots through trips like these. I’ll never forget those girls and those incredible parents who gave them an opportunity at life.
We toured the Alamo, and took lots of pretty pictures, as everything is already in bloom and green there! The kids got so tired of me saying, “OK, stand over there, in front of that purple tree, now, smile!” They would go, “Oh, mom!” But out came the smiles anyway. Bunch of hams!
Then we bought some cotton candy from a street vendor, and everyone’s fingers and faces were sticky. Later, we saw baby ducks with a mommy duck in the River. They were so tiny and cute! You know it is officially spring when there is baby ducks!
Tired, sticky and dusty, by nightfall we were headed home through the scenic drive between San Antonio and Katy. Green fields, tractors tilling up the hay fields to get ready for planting, and plenty of cows greeted us from the roadside. It is a beautiful life, and we are grateful to be living it!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Blancos and the Mystery of the Unseen Alligator
It was almost immediately apparent to me when we arrived here in southeastern Texas last fall that we live in a swamp. Now, it’s not the Everglades by any means, but it is a swamp! Keep in mind, I am a desert rat who spent most of her life on the Mexican border of southeastern Arizona, amidst mesquite bushes and cacti! This is a major change for me, one that I am enjoying immensely. Mi ninos and I were walking in our neighborhood park yesterday, just as the sun was hovering over the western horizon, sending gorgeous pink and orange rays across the sky, when I stopped short.
In front of me, in the grass on the edge of the pond stood a very clear sign. “Beware of Alligators!” Alligators? Right here? In the middle of a suburbian housing development? The kids were excitedly pointing, then peering into the water, hoping to catch a glimpse of an alligator nose. OK, I’m used to lizards the size of my thumb, even rattlesnakes and scorpions don’t scare me. What would I do, though, with an alligator?!
We continued on, and as Jovanni and I pushed Sophie in her stroller into the gazebo on the water’s edge, he yelled “There’s something in the water!” I followed him to his perch, and I saw it too! The water swirled a little, then a nose came poking up into the air! A turtle nose! So maybe we missed the alligator this time, but if you know my kids, you know they’ll be the ones to spot him. Maybe he’ll be sunning himself tomorrow on the big hill behind the waterfall!
In front of me, in the grass on the edge of the pond stood a very clear sign. “Beware of Alligators!” Alligators? Right here? In the middle of a suburbian housing development? The kids were excitedly pointing, then peering into the water, hoping to catch a glimpse of an alligator nose. OK, I’m used to lizards the size of my thumb, even rattlesnakes and scorpions don’t scare me. What would I do, though, with an alligator?!
We continued on, and as Jovanni and I pushed Sophie in her stroller into the gazebo on the water’s edge, he yelled “There’s something in the water!” I followed him to his perch, and I saw it too! The water swirled a little, then a nose came poking up into the air! A turtle nose! So maybe we missed the alligator this time, but if you know my kids, you know they’ll be the ones to spot him. Maybe he’ll be sunning himself tomorrow on the big hill behind the waterfall!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Our Girlie Girl
Our girlie girl, mi Princesa, Bella, is quite the character, let me tell you! She is prim, but not so proper. While I write this, she is watching her favorite show on TV, Dog the Bounty Hunter. She wears pink and purple everyday, but her favorite show is Dog! Her headbands have to match her outfits and her purses have to match her headbands (and believe me, she takes a purse EVERYWHERE!). She is our compassionate and loyal firstborn daughter, full of affection most of the time. The other part of the time, her siblings run for cover from her Mexican temper!
OK, so she doesn’t get all her temper from her dad.
OK, so she doesn’t get all her temper from her dad.
The weather is definately changing around here
The weather is definitely changing around here, (no, I’m not talking about mi ninas’ constantly altering moods!) I mean, that spring really is in the air, and I, for one, am excited! I can sniff out a good “planting day” with the best of them. We had a guy come by the house today who wanted to know if we needed our lawn mowed. Uhh, let’s see, I’ve been using a machete to get through our backyard to my garden for weeks now! Seriously though, Juan and I are not used to this grass thing. For years until now, we would carefully tend our beautiful yard of multi-colored stones that also had a few splashes of flagstone and a struggling shrub or two. Hey, it may have been a rock garden, but maintenance wise, let me tell you, it was a pinch. Those rocks don’t grow near as fast as this grass, even when we did get a couple inches of rain!
Anyway, so this nice Hispanic gentleman helped to meet our need. So, the yard looks fantastic, and smells like my farm raisin’ (childhood), I looovvvveee it! He also was available to help with my obviously-less-than-clean enough house, as he indicated at the end while I was paying him, by holding up a business card for house cleaning. I smiled politely, thanking him for noticing mi casa’s mess, and saying sorry, but we didn’t have the money for it. He laughed sarcastically, waving his hand, indicating the house, and saying, right, ok, you don’t have the money! I just thanked him again and sent him on his way, smiling to myself as I thought about my Hispanic friend’s earlier comment. “Yeah, he was so excited when he got here, thinking, oooh, a gringa with money. Then he realized, oh, a gringa with a Mexican husband.” We both laughed. It takes a Mexican to know a Mexican. (it’s a cultural joke among the Hispanics, for those new to this culture – Mexican guys generally [disclaimer] can be tight with money.) Maybe you had to be there for that one to be funny!
The girls just got off the bus, so I’m going to get off of here before they raid the pantry. By themselves, I mean. They’re not allowed to leave me out of that! Besides, Bella has something really important to tattle …I mean, tell me about. She had half the accusation out of her mouth the second the front door swung open, I mean, the girl’s timing is impeccable. I swear, she’s got the whole thing so immaculately planned, that she knows it will take her exactly twenty-two point four seconds to make a full statement before I rudely cut her off, so she watches carefully as the doorknob twitches…go, its opening!!! Ahhh, I do, I do love my life! Til’ next time…
Anyway, so this nice Hispanic gentleman helped to meet our need. So, the yard looks fantastic, and smells like my farm raisin’ (childhood), I looovvvveee it! He also was available to help with my obviously-less-than-clean enough house, as he indicated at the end while I was paying him, by holding up a business card for house cleaning. I smiled politely, thanking him for noticing mi casa’s mess, and saying sorry, but we didn’t have the money for it. He laughed sarcastically, waving his hand, indicating the house, and saying, right, ok, you don’t have the money! I just thanked him again and sent him on his way, smiling to myself as I thought about my Hispanic friend’s earlier comment. “Yeah, he was so excited when he got here, thinking, oooh, a gringa with money. Then he realized, oh, a gringa with a Mexican husband.” We both laughed. It takes a Mexican to know a Mexican. (it’s a cultural joke among the Hispanics, for those new to this culture – Mexican guys generally [disclaimer] can be tight with money.) Maybe you had to be there for that one to be funny!
The girls just got off the bus, so I’m going to get off of here before they raid the pantry. By themselves, I mean. They’re not allowed to leave me out of that! Besides, Bella has something really important to tattle …I mean, tell me about. She had half the accusation out of her mouth the second the front door swung open, I mean, the girl’s timing is impeccable. I swear, she’s got the whole thing so immaculately planned, that she knows it will take her exactly twenty-two point four seconds to make a full statement before I rudely cut her off, so she watches carefully as the doorknob twitches…go, its opening!!! Ahhh, I do, I do love my life! Til’ next time…
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
So many good intentions!
I had so many good intentions for today, like getting through an entire day’s worth of Jovanni’s school work, or actually cooking a real gourmet dinner for my family. Maybe even submitting an actual query to an actual editor for one of the articles floating around the vast space on my computer! I knew it was off to a shaky start when I went upstairs to wake up the girls with my rendition of “Good morning, good morning, good morning, it’s time to rise and shine!” and Bella sat up, complaining of a sour stomach before she was even fully awake. GiGi, my constant sunshine girl, loved my song, and helped me sing it to Jovanni to get him up. While I was making the kids their breakfast sandwiches, Bella was working her sales pitch on me to stay home from school. So I called a Blanco family official hookie day.
The girls and I scrapbooked, visited with company (my friend V and her two beautiful babies!), and ate all day long. (Bella’s stomach miraculously settled within five minutes of the hookie day announcement, by the way.) Poor Jovie tried to knock some curriculum out, complaining about his math…ugghhh!!! I don’t blame him, I never loved math either.
I did get something done today, though, I loved on my chamacos, and they loved on me. The kids and I goofed off really, but that was ok today. Sometimes we just need to break the monotony of our daily regimen.
The girls and I scrapbooked, visited with company (my friend V and her two beautiful babies!), and ate all day long. (Bella’s stomach miraculously settled within five minutes of the hookie day announcement, by the way.) Poor Jovie tried to knock some curriculum out, complaining about his math…ugghhh!!! I don’t blame him, I never loved math either.
I did get something done today, though, I loved on my chamacos, and they loved on me. The kids and I goofed off really, but that was ok today. Sometimes we just need to break the monotony of our daily regimen.
Monday, February 22, 2010
No Ordinary Day
That day was no ordinary day. It was familiar December weather for southern Arizona, calm, almost warm, and very clear blue skies. I was scrambling to finish getting myself ready for this important and emotional day. I had been praying for and waiting on this day for over a year now, and my heart beat faster as I realized what I was about to do. “ Moooooommmmm!” my reverie was broken with a shrill squeal for help. Bella was in need, and whether it was truly important or not, to my Bella, drama queen extraordinaire, it was life or death! Her hair was still not done, and she did not like the shoes I had picked for her to wear. As I calmed her down, I could hear the girls’ father working with GiGi on her outfit. We were getting married today. Again!
A while later, as we stood before our Pastor and exchanged our vows for the second time in our young lives, I couldn’t help but choke up. It didn’t matter that I was in a black and white dress, and he wasn’t wearing a tux. It didn’t even matter that we were not on our way to an exotic honeymoon somewhere in the Carribean. All that mattered was that he was promising his love to me again, in front of God, our families, and Pastor McDuffie. I looked at him, he looked at me, and we both knew…this time really was forever. By the grace of God we both meant it.
This blue- eyed Norwegian from farm country in Illinois had met my Mexican man thirteen years before in a dried up border town in southern Arizona. How God brought these two opposites together years ago is still amazing! Juan was twenty-three, through college with his bachelor’s degree, goal –oriented and sharp. I was seventeen, naïve, perky and dream-oriented! I was in love with life, and soon Juan was in love with me. We laugh about it now, because there was never any “real romance” between us. That is, we were mutually falling for each other as friends. Friendship is a wonderful basis for love, because though I haven’t experienced romantic feelings myself, I have heard that romance can fade with time. Our friendship, however, has never ended.
So we married early the next year, for more than one reason, which I will indulge you on only after you and I have become friends enough for you to treasure as much as we do. Not long after we were expecting our first child, our only son, Jovanni. I would like to say that we lived happily ever after, but that wouldn’t be a very fun story to read anyway. I think at some point we have to “grow up” and realize there is no such thing as happily ever after! We’ve seen some sorrow in our past together, but we have also seen triumph, success, and many reasons to celebrate what God has done in our lives.
Fast forward to today, just an ordinary day in a hectic, but precious, life. The life of a Mexican wife, mother of four chamacos, and probably as most stay-at-home moms out there, too much to do in one day. I am grateful for my life, as I was once on a path to a very different life. This is the diary of my family’s stories; most funny, some sad but inspiring, all, worth the while. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy telling them!
A while later, as we stood before our Pastor and exchanged our vows for the second time in our young lives, I couldn’t help but choke up. It didn’t matter that I was in a black and white dress, and he wasn’t wearing a tux. It didn’t even matter that we were not on our way to an exotic honeymoon somewhere in the Carribean. All that mattered was that he was promising his love to me again, in front of God, our families, and Pastor McDuffie. I looked at him, he looked at me, and we both knew…this time really was forever. By the grace of God we both meant it.
This blue- eyed Norwegian from farm country in Illinois had met my Mexican man thirteen years before in a dried up border town in southern Arizona. How God brought these two opposites together years ago is still amazing! Juan was twenty-three, through college with his bachelor’s degree, goal –oriented and sharp. I was seventeen, naïve, perky and dream-oriented! I was in love with life, and soon Juan was in love with me. We laugh about it now, because there was never any “real romance” between us. That is, we were mutually falling for each other as friends. Friendship is a wonderful basis for love, because though I haven’t experienced romantic feelings myself, I have heard that romance can fade with time. Our friendship, however, has never ended.
So we married early the next year, for more than one reason, which I will indulge you on only after you and I have become friends enough for you to treasure as much as we do. Not long after we were expecting our first child, our only son, Jovanni. I would like to say that we lived happily ever after, but that wouldn’t be a very fun story to read anyway. I think at some point we have to “grow up” and realize there is no such thing as happily ever after! We’ve seen some sorrow in our past together, but we have also seen triumph, success, and many reasons to celebrate what God has done in our lives.
Fast forward to today, just an ordinary day in a hectic, but precious, life. The life of a Mexican wife, mother of four chamacos, and probably as most stay-at-home moms out there, too much to do in one day. I am grateful for my life, as I was once on a path to a very different life. This is the diary of my family’s stories; most funny, some sad but inspiring, all, worth the while. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy telling them!
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