I realize I just made a post about working around my house all of yesterday afternoon and evening... all on a Sunday which is supposed to be a day of rest, a day to keep holy.
With my situation not being ideal and my having to work each weekday, I find myself often working around my house and in my yard on Sundays - especially in the summer after being gone at church meetings.
I often ponder this, and I hope to further study it with our church members.
But, I thought it was important to ask, do any of you have guidelines for yourself or for your family about what you absolutely do or do not do on your day of rest to separate it from the other days of the week? Is there anything you wouldn't do on a Sunday that would be fine for you to do on any other day? I would appreciate your reflections on this topic.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Party for One
Yesterday was both a blessed day of rest and of great accomplishment for me at home.
I set my alarm to wake me up with a Sacred Harp singing tape, and I continued to listen to it until I departed for worship services. Brother Chris presented an insightful sermon on four types of fruit we might bear when abiding with Christ, and the fellowship at lunch with my brothers and sisters in the church was especially comforting. God blessed us with a wonderful time together!
The Z family was heading to "Family Day" at the symphony with their eldest, so I was put in charge of Miss Abigail who was in rare form yesterday afternoon. I didn't know whether to attribute her demeanor to being exhausted, being away from her parents, or being with me in particular, but the little one would not drop her stone face... even when greeted by many in the grocery store. The only slight change appeared as I drove through the car wash (which I thought would create a much bigger reaction.) Less than two miles down the road, Abi was out like a light and remained that way until Mama and Daddy came to pick her up. (So, I guess I received my answer.)
I was looking forward to some play time but was also relieved that naptime lasted so long - as I had many tasks on my to-do list, namely laundry washing and drying, dish washing and putting away, fridge cleaning out, sweeping, mopping, sorting, mailing, dusting... Basically, the whole house was a wreck after a couple weeks of neglect. And, by the end of the night, I am thankful I was able to cross off most chores, with only a few remaining for this evening.
During the rush of tasks, it was also extremely important that I hurry to start my pot of chili. In more years than not, our family would drag the card table out of the closet and into the living room so that we could set it up in front of the TV. (This was one of the RARE occasions when we wouldn't eat together at the kitchen table.) By then, Mom would have a steaming hot pot of chili going, and the scent would fill the house. One by one, we'd file through the line in the kitchen, obtaining our own bowl of soup. (Some of us like it from the bottom, and some of us like it from the top.) We'd then fill our plates with our usual offerings: small pickles, oyster crackers, cheese, cheese, and more cheese. Sometimes, we'd even have Fritos and sour cream. Then, I'd attempt the long walk into the living room without spilling my chili. (This was always quite an exercise for me. Still is!) Our small Superbowl parties were a special and fun family time for us to have - with just the four of us. Nothing fancy, but fond memories for me. So, even though I was by myself, I decided to have a Superbowl party for one, sit down in my (fairly) clean house, relax, and enjoy the game and commercials. I realize our beloved Bears did not triumph, but I could not help but be happy about my second favorite team winning the big game. (Now, if it had been anyone else.... ) Thanks to the many who called, sent text and email messages, or stopped by to offer condolescenses.... or, in most cases, completely rub my face in it. Such kind friends!
Thanks also goes out to Mom for reminding me of the simple recipe that reminds me of home. (We are midwestern-beans-in-our-not-too-spicy-chili kind of people.)
I set my alarm to wake me up with a Sacred Harp singing tape, and I continued to listen to it until I departed for worship services. Brother Chris presented an insightful sermon on four types of fruit we might bear when abiding with Christ, and the fellowship at lunch with my brothers and sisters in the church was especially comforting. God blessed us with a wonderful time together!
The Z family was heading to "Family Day" at the symphony with their eldest, so I was put in charge of Miss Abigail who was in rare form yesterday afternoon. I didn't know whether to attribute her demeanor to being exhausted, being away from her parents, or being with me in particular, but the little one would not drop her stone face... even when greeted by many in the grocery store. The only slight change appeared as I drove through the car wash (which I thought would create a much bigger reaction.) Less than two miles down the road, Abi was out like a light and remained that way until Mama and Daddy came to pick her up. (So, I guess I received my answer.)I was looking forward to some play time but was also relieved that naptime lasted so long - as I had many tasks on my to-do list, namely laundry washing and drying, dish washing and putting away, fridge cleaning out, sweeping, mopping, sorting, mailing, dusting... Basically, the whole house was a wreck after a couple weeks of neglect. And, by the end of the night, I am thankful I was able to cross off most chores, with only a few remaining for this evening.
During the rush of tasks, it was also extremely important that I hurry to start my pot of chili. In more years than not, our family would drag the card table out of the closet and into the living room so that we could set it up in front of the TV. (This was one of the RARE occasions when we wouldn't eat together at the kitchen table.) By then, Mom would have a steaming hot pot of chili going, and the scent would fill the house. One by one, we'd file through the line in the kitchen, obtaining our own bowl of soup. (Some of us like it from the bottom, and some of us like it from the top.) We'd then fill our plates with our usual offerings: small pickles, oyster crackers, cheese, cheese, and more cheese. Sometimes, we'd even have Fritos and sour cream. Then, I'd attempt the long walk into the living room without spilling my chili. (This was always quite an exercise for me. Still is!) Our small Superbowl parties were a special and fun family time for us to have - with just the four of us. Nothing fancy, but fond memories for me. So, even though I was by myself, I decided to have a Superbowl party for one, sit down in my (fairly) clean house, relax, and enjoy the game and commercials. I realize our beloved Bears did not triumph, but I could not help but be happy about my second favorite team winning the big game. (Now, if it had been anyone else.... ) Thanks to the many who called, sent text and email messages, or stopped by to offer condolescenses.... or, in most cases, completely rub my face in it. Such kind friends!Thanks also goes out to Mom for reminding me of the simple recipe that reminds me of home. (We are midwestern-beans-in-our-not-too-spicy-chili kind of people.)
Friday, February 02, 2007
Waiting for Sunday
It's been a hectic day here, so I haven't been able to make my post as planned. Just wanted to say that I am very excited about the upcoming big game...
...with the Bears (favorite team) and Colts (2nd favorite team).
Hope we see some great commercials during the Superbowl! And, more importantly, I hope everyone has a blessed weekend!
...with the Bears (favorite team) and Colts (2nd favorite team).
Hope we see some great commercials during the Superbowl! And, more importantly, I hope everyone has a blessed weekend!
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Just A Hop, Skip, & A Jump
Here is the funny little thing I made Tasha yesterday...
...which reminds me of some dumb frog jokes.
Q: Do you know what type of shoes frogs wear in the summer time?
A: Open toad!
Q: Why are frogs so happy?
A: They eat whatever bugs them!
Q: Why are frogs so good at baseball?
A: Because they catch a lot of flies.
Q: How does a frog feel when he has a broken leg?
A: Unhoppy.
Q: Why did the frog read Sherlock Holmes?
A: He liked a good croak and dagger.
Q: What did the frog order at McDonald's?
A: French flies and a diet Croak
Q: What do stylish frogs wear?
A: Jumpsuits!
Q. How deep is the water in a frog pond?
A. Kneedeep, kneedeep, kneedeep…
Q. What happens when frogs park illegally?
A. They get toad away!!
Q: What has more lives than a cat?
A: A frog. It croaks every night!
Q: What did the frog dress up as on Halloween?
A: A prince.
Q: What do you say to a hitch-hiking frog?
A: Hop in!
Q: What is a frog's favorite game?
A: Croquet
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Worketh Willingly With Her Hands
I know several women who regulary turn to Proverbs 31 to meditate upon the verses and remind themselves of some of the virtues that make a godly woman's price "far above rubies." I regularly recognize how I fall so short, and I desire to do better in my walk. So, I have returned to focusing on one verse of this chapter each evening before going to sleep.
I am captivated by all of the details included in this text, but in recent years, I've become especially intrigued by four verses in particular.
Pr 31:13, 19, 22, 24
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
Even though I've always been interested in craft projects, I have often felt behind in some of the areas mentioned above. Home Ec class was wonderful for me, and I was thrilled to sew with a sewing machine, learn about the different stitches, and experiment with different material. But, as soon as those semesters were over, my access to a sewing machine would once again cease. I was blessed to have some special times with Grandma Stremmel who showed me how to use her old black sewing machine before her health declined, and I treasure those memories. And, once in a blue moon, Mom would have to bring out her machine to fix something. However, we never had a special place so that it could stay out and so that Mom could teach me what she knew about making clothes. I wish I knew more. Thankfully, Sister Tracy who is a very good seamstress has taken Lydia and me under her wing in the past few months, and I now have a used machine of my own so that I may experiment. Hopefully, some new creations will be made this spring... ones that I can actually wear.
Several ladies are turning back to the art of knitting and crocheting. I've even seen a TV special which featured celebrities, such as Julia Roberts, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cameron Diaz, and Vanna White, who reportedly knit as a hobby. My dad is the one who crochets in our family, and he makes the most beautiful afghans. (A gorgeous one he made me is displayed on the corner of my loveseat.) Dad learned from my grandma. I remember both of them trying to teach me, but I could never pick it up. I could make a chain as long as anybody would want, but it seems my patience ran out when it came to creating that second row. I really need to try it again so that I am able to learn from Dad.
There are so many other talents in this area that I hope to attain, so I have a lot of work to do in the future. Until then, I've turned back to a special skill that Mom taught me when I was very young: embroidery. I regret that I have not created anything in recent years, but it used to be my habit to work on some big projects in January, February and March each year. When the days are short and sunlight is scarce, it is simple for my mind to wander and dwell on topics on which it shouldn't. I feel so much better when I have a project to work toward and when I can accomplish something with my hands. So, in the last 3 weeks, I've stayed busy in the evenings with these:
It is odd to look at these pictures and see so little as results - yet know how many hours have been spent with a needle in my hand.
The red rose pillowcase set is one of my current projects and will be given to one of my close friends who has a red bedroom. The caterpillar quilted bib is for my college friend in California who is expecting her first child this spring. The white-on-white S pillowcases are for me. I made a set for Ketra's brother and new sister-in-law for their wedding in December and decided I'd like some just like them.
These small stitches took quite a bit of time! I really need to work on the consistency of my stitch sizes and my satin stitches.
Here is the finished product of the sunflower that was a work in progress above. It has been attached to a big paperclip to create a bookmark, and I am going to give this to Miss Lydia tonight at church. I also have a different design I am working on to create a bookmark for Miss Tasha.
It is often like a treasure hunt in my house - as I can step down into my basement and find items that were in storage and that I have not seen for years. I was so happy to finally find my "embroidery box" this winter and all of the embroidery floss, pillowcases, iron-on patterns, and hoops that it contained. Many of these projects were bought years ago in kits made for beginners, so I started with them. And, thankfully, I am seeing some improvement in my work over time.
I love the homemade items that my friends and family have given to me, and I often lament the turn away from this tradition. For instance, when I was young and would attend bridal and baby showers, it would be commonplace for the guest of honor to receive handmade gifts - especially from the older women in attendance. Now, showers are quite different, and I miss the old days. Hopefully, I am not alone in this, and I am thankful Mom has taught me not only to embroider but to appreciate these special gifts.
While these types of skills are definitely not the most important areas in which I need to work to be a better follower of Christ, I pray God blesses me to become more skilled in these areas and in better keeping a home.
I am captivated by all of the details included in this text, but in recent years, I've become especially intrigued by four verses in particular.
Pr 31:13, 19, 22, 24
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
Even though I've always been interested in craft projects, I have often felt behind in some of the areas mentioned above. Home Ec class was wonderful for me, and I was thrilled to sew with a sewing machine, learn about the different stitches, and experiment with different material. But, as soon as those semesters were over, my access to a sewing machine would once again cease. I was blessed to have some special times with Grandma Stremmel who showed me how to use her old black sewing machine before her health declined, and I treasure those memories. And, once in a blue moon, Mom would have to bring out her machine to fix something. However, we never had a special place so that it could stay out and so that Mom could teach me what she knew about making clothes. I wish I knew more. Thankfully, Sister Tracy who is a very good seamstress has taken Lydia and me under her wing in the past few months, and I now have a used machine of my own so that I may experiment. Hopefully, some new creations will be made this spring... ones that I can actually wear.
Several ladies are turning back to the art of knitting and crocheting. I've even seen a TV special which featured celebrities, such as Julia Roberts, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cameron Diaz, and Vanna White, who reportedly knit as a hobby. My dad is the one who crochets in our family, and he makes the most beautiful afghans. (A gorgeous one he made me is displayed on the corner of my loveseat.) Dad learned from my grandma. I remember both of them trying to teach me, but I could never pick it up. I could make a chain as long as anybody would want, but it seems my patience ran out when it came to creating that second row. I really need to try it again so that I am able to learn from Dad.
There are so many other talents in this area that I hope to attain, so I have a lot of work to do in the future. Until then, I've turned back to a special skill that Mom taught me when I was very young: embroidery. I regret that I have not created anything in recent years, but it used to be my habit to work on some big projects in January, February and March each year. When the days are short and sunlight is scarce, it is simple for my mind to wander and dwell on topics on which it shouldn't. I feel so much better when I have a project to work toward and when I can accomplish something with my hands. So, in the last 3 weeks, I've stayed busy in the evenings with these:
It is odd to look at these pictures and see so little as results - yet know how many hours have been spent with a needle in my hand.
The red rose pillowcase set is one of my current projects and will be given to one of my close friends who has a red bedroom. The caterpillar quilted bib is for my college friend in California who is expecting her first child this spring. The white-on-white S pillowcases are for me. I made a set for Ketra's brother and new sister-in-law for their wedding in December and decided I'd like some just like them.
These small stitches took quite a bit of time! I really need to work on the consistency of my stitch sizes and my satin stitches.
Here is the finished product of the sunflower that was a work in progress above. It has been attached to a big paperclip to create a bookmark, and I am going to give this to Miss Lydia tonight at church. I also have a different design I am working on to create a bookmark for Miss Tasha.It is often like a treasure hunt in my house - as I can step down into my basement and find items that were in storage and that I have not seen for years. I was so happy to finally find my "embroidery box" this winter and all of the embroidery floss, pillowcases, iron-on patterns, and hoops that it contained. Many of these projects were bought years ago in kits made for beginners, so I started with them. And, thankfully, I am seeing some improvement in my work over time.
I love the homemade items that my friends and family have given to me, and I often lament the turn away from this tradition. For instance, when I was young and would attend bridal and baby showers, it would be commonplace for the guest of honor to receive handmade gifts - especially from the older women in attendance. Now, showers are quite different, and I miss the old days. Hopefully, I am not alone in this, and I am thankful Mom has taught me not only to embroider but to appreciate these special gifts.
While these types of skills are definitely not the most important areas in which I need to work to be a better follower of Christ, I pray God blesses me to become more skilled in these areas and in better keeping a home.
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