April 29, 2011 - An Historic Day...

...NOT because of a royal wedding.
It's NATHAN'S 17th BIRTHDAY!!!

Nathan, I love your adventurous spirit!

I love your devotion to family. 

I notice -- in case you wondered -- that you take time to shoot hoops with Ben 

and play princess games with Ellie. You're an incredible big brother.

I enjoyed our Samford trip and appreciate that 

you want our advice on your college search.

I'm so thankful that you want to find a good church, too.

I pray you'll always trust in God.

I wish my grandma could have heard you play piano. You're a gifted musician.

Thank you for practicing without nagging! (Most of the time :D)

I love your sense of individuality!

Sure it's pirates v. ninjas...

You pulled off Gumby pirate like no one else could.

I'm undecided about your love of texting...

At least you text the fam, too.

I love watching you invest in the generation that follows...

priceless!

I'm surprised! You told us you're a great runner.

WOW! I've known you your whole life,

but I didn't know this! 

Happy seventeenth birthday, Nathan (not Nate or Nathaniel)!

I love you, always and forever!

I pray that this year will be filled with joy, 

more understanding of God's plan for you, 

and memories you'll cherish all your life.

Mexico Update -- Please Pray!!!

My dad recently returned from his first international missions trip to Mexico. I'm so proud of him! Praise God for allowing him the opportunity to serve and minister to some of the world's most troubled people.


My dad made it home, safe and sound. He got home a little more than a week ago, flying in on Saturday, the day of the North Carolina tornadoes. When I finally got to talk to him, he excitedly shared the fun details of his flights around the storms. So different from the quiet man I remember growing up. I'm just glad he made it home, safe and in good spirits!

They ministered in two areas. In Los Nogales the church is alive and thriving. He shared the passion the people have and how families attend church services and activities together. He described it as vibrant. Listening to him, I couldn't help get excited for God's work being done in that city.

In stark contrast, he shared that the people of Juarez, Mexico -- just across the border from El Paso, Texas -- are suffering. I researched Juarez online. It's called the murder capital of the world. OF THE WORLD! It's not that far away. Mexico. More dangerous than Iraq. Or Libya. Really?

Many of the men are involved in the drug trade. Moms are raising a generation of children without fathers. He shared that one lady is boldly leading Bible studies in her home while her husband is in prison for his involvement in drug trafficking. Other women are developing Christian programs for the children, hoping to give kids hope and a choice for a better future. These ladies want to offer their children, especially their sons, a choice to live for something worthwhile. They're standing up against the drug trade. I struggle to comprehend all this is going on "next door."

Will you join me today in prayer for this troubled region? Will you keep these brave women who are trusting God to change their families' futures in your prayers. With God, all things are possible.

Thank you.

Rebekah's Mistake

I've been wrestling with this post for a while. 

Once I put thoughts to paper, I can't pretend I don't know.

Genesis 27 tells us the story of Jacob's blessing. His father, Isaac, lie sick on his deathbed, ready to pass on the blessing to his first-born. He called to his older son, Esau, and asked him to prepare a special meal before doing so. Esau went off to hunt.

Rebekah, who is Isaac's wife, overheard the conversation and didn't like it at all. She wanted that blessing to be given to her younger son, Jacob. She called Jacob to her, instructed him to retrieve a goat that she would prepare for Isaac so that Jacob could present it and get his brother's blessing. 

Rebekah was quite the schemer. She even developed a plan to disguise Jacob as his brother, "and put the skins of the kids of the goats on his hands and neck." (Gen. 27:16) Despite raising several concerns about her plan, Jacob ultimately obeyed his mother and stole his brother's blessing.

What a horrible story to include in the Bible! Lying, deceit, trickery. The story reminds me of a soap opera plot, not the stuff of real life.

And then...

God whispers. He always catches me off guard when I find myself thinking, "Glad that's not me."

I realize this IS me.

When I become a "stage mom," pushing my kids one direction or another, trying to get them to do what I want rather than allowing them to be who they are. Nit-picking at Nathan before he sits at the piano -- what good does that do? Either he knows how to perform or it's too late. Or asking my kids, are you sure that you want to play with him -- what about so-and-so instead? I could go on, but really.... do you need to hear a litany of my mistakes?

Back to Rebekah: Her story ends tragically. Esau overheard Isaac blessing Jacob. He begged Isaac for his own blessing, which Isaac could not do. Esau, understandably angry, threatened Jacob's life. Rebekah overheard that and sent Jacob away. Rebekah died, years later, never to see her beloved Jacob again. (Yep, the soap opera continues.)

She paid such a terrible price, losing the one thing she loved most: Jacob. She pushed him, despite his objections. Out of love, he obeyed. But then, he was gone.

If I push too much, will I pay the same price? I don't know. AND I don't want to know.

Rebekah was imperfect. Her motives weren't always pure. Yet God used her -- and He used Jacob to do great things. That's His love. His mercy. The hope at the end of the story.

I pray that God will help me direct my kids when they need it. I ask that He help me guide and motivate, but please don't let me manipulate. When I do mess up, I know I will, cover my mistakes with Your Grace. Help me learn. Grow. Become the mom you want me to be.

Happy Easter!!!

photo © 2007 Zest-pk | more info (via: Wylio)Happy Easter!

Can you tell I've had a crazy week? Between preparing for mock trial competition (my eighth grader) and trying to enjoy spring break with the other two (not so successful -- just so busy), the week has flown by. I could get caught up in all the details and forget what it's all about. But...

 Jesus, my Lord and Savior, lived a sinless life, died undeservedly on a cross and rose again, just for me. And you.

Because of His sacrifice, I parent imperfectly -- and am forgiven.
I forget my purpose -- and am forgiven.
I drop the ball -- and am forgiven.

Because of His great love, I am never alone.
I am filled with His joy to carry me through
Even when life swirls and seems overwhelming.

Today, we are slowing down. I don't want Easter, Jesus' death and resurrection, the very source of Christian life, to pass by unnoticed. I don't want my daughter to get caught up in the Easter bunny, never hearing the message of the Easter Gift.

Yes, it's been a crazy week, but Jesus, I love You. Thank You for sustaining me when I'm running too fast. Thank You for encouraging me, nurturing me, and filling me with joy. I can't imagine life without You. Thank You, dear Jesus, for Easter and my gift of salvation.

Love, Karen

Prayers for Storm Victims

This is a photo of damage in Kenly, a small town to our east here in Johnston County.

Friends,
We live near Raleigh, NC. Yesterday, we watched news coverage, amazed as the storms swept through to our west and then to our east. Our little patch in between got some wind and rain and nothing more. I wonder if that's somewhat how the Israelites' felt when God parted the Jordan to lead them to safety. I am grateful for His protection.

Hundreds around us lost their homes. At least ten people in our region died -- and some little kids are still unaccounted for. Please pray for the families who lost everything (from Oklahoma to Alabama to NC and beyond). May this be a time that God's love is revealed to those who don't know him as we support one another. Pray for peace and comfort for those who must piece their lives back together. Pray for the workers, the first responders who must deal with death and the relief workers who will clean up. Pray, too, for the power company as they restore power to thousands in the coming days.

Thank you,
Karen

All Around Autism: Adults have autism too - Don't be quick to judge

All Around Autism: Adults have autism too - Don't be quick to judge

This about sums it up!

Versatile Blogging

Hi friends,

Here in bloggy world, we like to recognize each other's efforts. We're quite the friendly community. I say "we" but I never expected to get involved in it. Then Kathy over at My Dishwasher's Possessed nominated me. How sweet! Thank you, Kathy. Friends, you might want to visit her blog. She's funny! (In fact, except for her not liking the beach -- horror!!! -- I absolutely adore Kathy.)

The award creator asks that I share seven things about myself. I guess seven keeps my acceptance speech from getting too long and winded -- more reserved than the Grammys! So, here are my seven:

1. Until flying to China to bring home our daughter, I was terrified to fly. Funny, 24 hours in an airplane and LOTS of prayer can change anything! Now I love to fly anywhere!

2. I'm the queen of the one pot/one pan/one slowcooker meal. If it can be cooked in one place, then it's the dish for me! (My husband is the gourmet and really knows how to trash a kitchen!)

3. I love living in the south!!!! Really, really love it.

4. I've never colored my hair... and at 45, I'm still not gray. YAY! (That could count as two)

5. In school, I really wanted to be a cheerleader. I was not coordinated enough. Not even close!

6. I zumba -- but only in the privacy of my own home. (See number five!!!)

7. I could live on popcorn, coffee, chocolate and lemonade. That's really all I need.

There are lots of other amazing blogs out there. Here are a few of my favorites!

Life & Wife of a Med Student. Devin and Megan have been through more in their young married life than I could ever imagine. They are truly inspiring. My husband went to med school... and that was tough enough without the extra challenges. Check out this inspiring young family!

Keesler Chaos.  I love reading up on their adventures. We've shared some similar challenges: adoption, autism spectrum disorder, and more. Uplifting and funny! A great encouragement on tough days.

Barb Haller. Barb is a dear friend and mentor. I don't use that word lightly. She is a bit further down the parenting road than I am and is wonderful at putting my momentary concerns into perspective. I'm blessed to know her! She blogs from an inner joy of writing and her posts are touching and personal. I go there for peace and rest. 

Laugh with us blog. The title says it all. Esther and her family find joy in everything... even canned baked beans! 

Organized Chaos. Linsey is quite creative.... and she is a FABULOUS photographer. Beautiful blog... I think she is more organized than the blog title suggests!

Sweet Simplicity Designs.  Do you want a unique blog -- one that's all you? Then check out this blog designing site. Liz is working on my blog makeover -- you'll see the new look in a few weeks. Check it out for yourself!

Markmiller6. Jenny is hilarious. She's mom to four and wife to one -- and loves life! She makes me laugh. We met, years ago, in China -- that same trip where I overcame my fear of flying. I'm thankful God brought her into my life. Her spirit on our trip lifted everyone!

I could recommend more, but I need to get on with number six on my about me list. My son thinks it's hilarious -- so he's going to try to zumba with me this morning. I'm fairly certain I'll outlast him! If only to save face!

Have a fantastic day!

Love,

Karen

Mexico!!!

My dad, with Ben.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8

Hey bloggy friends,
I'm just giddy today... My dad is in Mexico on a mission trip. Just reading that sentence makes me giggle.

My dad turns 73 this month. And he is on his first ever foreign missions trip. (His first mission trip was to New Orleans a couple years ago).

Isn't that the coolest thing?!

You're never too old to start loving Jesus. AND you're never too old to share His love with the world. The world could be your next door neighbor. Or it could be the lady who does your hair. OR, it could be the people my dad's hanging out with in Mexico this week.

Please pray for my dad and his two friends (aka, the three amigos) while they travel. And while you're at it, would you invite someone to church to hear the good news of Jesus' resurrection? After all, you're never too old to share His love with others!

God Bless!
Karen

Finches

photo © 2009 Deb | more info (via: Wylio)
I've always wanted to look out the windows to see birds of every color and size flocking in my yard. I'm finally doing something about it. This weekend, I purchased a finch feeder and food at a local store. Already, we have bright yellow birds zooming through the yard to get a yummy snack. They interrupted our dinner Saturday as we all paused to watch them feed.

Why didn't I do something about this sooner?

Foodie Weekend in Nashville

What happens when you mix two ravenous teens, two adventurous mamas 

and one incredible foodie town? You get the ultimate foodie road trip, of course!

We enjoyed homemade, gourmet popsicles at Las Paletas,
as featured on Food Network.

Otherwise, I don't know that we would have known about this sweet place. 

Their business is simple. Popsicles. Done right. Nothing more.

Maybe we were crazy to eat cold food on a cold, drizzly evening, but oh my...

They were delicioso! Just look at all the crazy flavors.

Nathan and me at Las Paletas with our homemade popsicles.

As featured on Throwdown with Bobby Flay (Las Paletas won!)

Be sure to stop in if you ever get to Nashville.

Sunday morning, we went to Pancake Pantry,
which has also appeared on Food Network.

We arrived early, thinking we'd beat the church crowd rush. WRONG!

Freezing cold, we stood in line outside for about 1/2 an hour.
Thankfully, they had free coffee

available to keep us warm -- and awake!

Nathan and Marc were good sports, posing for a picture while we waited to order.

The food was worth the wait. Nathan's showing off his chocolate chip pancakes.

The guys talked about them the whole drive home!

Side note: Rob and I ate at Pancake Pantry's Gatlinburg location
on our honeymoon, almost 21 years ago! 

South Nashville, aka Foodie Mecca!

Sure NYC has its restaurants, with long wait times
and reservations required weeks in advance.

Nashville does it right.
Unique places, like Boscos and Burger Up (sorry, no pics).

Great food, creative and delicious. Sometimes simple, sometimes not.

We had a fabulous foodie weekend, with some college fun thrown in.
Hard to beat!

South Nashville, we'll be back! Thanks for a great weekend.

Grudges

A few weeks ago, I shared my struggle to forgive. I could justify my anger -- mama bears are supposed to protect their young. Right? But, that’s not what God’s word says. God calls us to forgive, 7 times 70! I try to let go. In fact, I’ve actively forgiven several times, but the hurt comes back. So, I pray. I ask God to help me. Again.

God’s doing His part. When Nathan and I visited Belmont, we attended a local church. The sermon topic: Forgiving. This past Sunday at our church, the sermon topic was on favoritism from James 2:1-13: Loving one more than another. At first, I heard the part about not choosing favorites. It was so easy to apply this lesson to “them.” I thought about their favoritism, hurting my child by ignoring him. It was so easy to point the finger. 

Then we got to James 2:8-9, “If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, ‘you shall love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.” The royal law is explained more fully in Leviticus 19:18, “You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.”

Oh friends, I want to hold on to this grudge so badly. I want to build a wall so tall and sturdy that the people who hurt my son can never, never, never, never get over it. Just shut them out. Completely. 

But how can I do that when God clearly instructs against it? How can I ignore the greatest commandment? That’s exactly what unforgiveness is: Choosing to love myself more than God or others. I don’t hold a grudge against myself. When I forget that my son needs time to think, I don’t hold a grudge against me. When I forget that cleaning his room requires herculean focus that he lacks, I don’t hold a grudge against myself for losing my patience with him. I do ask his forgiveness. He forgives. Easily.

If my son, the one who is truly hurt when he is judged, can forgive, why can’t I? Being a mama bear is no excuse. The Bible doesn’t make exceptions for mama bears. God calls us all to forgive, no matter how deep the hurt. My son understands. Maybe it’s time I do too.

Today...

I've got so many thoughts swirling in my head. My house shows it! As the thoughts swirl, the mess does too.

Today, I'm not going to rush.
Today, I'm not going to try to fix everything.
Today, I'm not going to write the posts that my heart longs to share... someday, maybe, but not today.

Today, I will be quiet. (I hope)
Today, I will listen to what God is whispering.
Today, I will praise Him for all He has done and continues to do.

Today, I am thankful.

Little bit different, Whole lot of loved

Almost fourteen years ago, our second son was born. He stole my heart. I love him still. More, I admire him for his strength, his perseverance, and his sensitivity.

His life has not been easy. My heart has broken for him so many times, watching him fight to be understood. All too often losing the battle. Yet, he never quits. He goes on. He forgives. Often. More easily than I ever could.

When he was a toddler, he threw a lot of tantrums. Exhausting. I couldn't reason with him like I did with his older brother. They kept on, for years. Sometimes, when he's really tired or overwhelmed, he might still have one. Not too often, just enough to remind me that his life isn't easy.

He talked late. He learned his colors late. He learned to read really, really, really, really late. He's still playing catch-up, but that's okay. Sometimes, he gets frustrated with himself because the words don't make sense. He knows they "should." Those days hurt. I wish I could flip a switch or wave a wand to fix it. But, he never quits.

His spelling is atrocious. In fact, "atrocious' won't make his school paper -- there's just no way to figure that one out! English spelling does not make sense -- in case you haven't noticed. Really! Or as he'd write it: Rilly! Now, his little sister -- in kindergarten and seven years younger -- can spell almost as well as he does. But he does not complain. When she demonstrates her spelling skills at dinner, spelling L-O-V-E forward AND backward, he smiles along with us. He's admires her genuinely. He's quite proud of her. Amazingly, he is not jealous.

As hard as the academic challenges are, it's the social battles that break my heart most. People forget that he has an autism spectrum disorder. They judge him based on their expectations of behavior for kids his age. They set a bar so far over his head that he can't win. That stinks!

They don't know that he had to be taught how to read facial expressions. They don't know that he doesn't understand subtle body language. They forget that his brain switches gears slowly. He needs time to adjust. Backyard games, with ever evolving rules, are hard work for him. Exhausting. Frustrating.

I'm not making excuses for him. He needs to learn how to navigate the world. He needs to learn to face disappointment. He needs to learn to control himself. Oh how I wish, though, that people would remember and help him out. He's hyper? That means he's overwhelmed by the social dynamic. He's angry? That means he doesn't understand the rules -- he just can't follow them. He's loud? That means he's nervous and trying to compensate for his insecurity. Throw him a lifeline. Please, don't shut him out. Please.

That's my mama's plea. But I know other parents don't remember. I know the kids don't remember. It's just the way of the world.

Jesus said,  "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) My sweet son, and countless others like him, have enough trouble. I pray for peace. For him. And for me.

If you want to learn more about autism spectrum disorders, read this article: Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Next Gen Prayers

Bloggy friends,
It's Revolution Weekend at our church, a special in-town weekend retreat for our 7th-12th graders. Would you join me in prayer for our students? Specifically, pray for a deeper relationship with Jesus, closer bonds with one another, safety as they serve in the community. Pray for all us grown ups too -- that we can keep up! :)

The weekend launches with a Toby Mac concert, live at our church. Even as I write that I still can't believe Toby Mac will be here! My son attended a music camp a few years ago and Toby shared that music sung for self doesn't glorify God. A musician's purpose is always to draw people closer to God -- sing for God. Play for God. Not for yourself. That's his message (paraphrased). It's all about Jesus.

Saturday our kids will have the chance to live that message out. They will be scrubbing down a local Boys and Girls club. Literally. Cleaning out every closet, cupboard, shelf and locker. It's in an area of our county where more than 90% of the kids receive free or reduced lunches. The students will really be giving some hands-on love to kids they may never meet. Our high school boys will be working at our local men's shelter. This group of homeless people is so often overlooked. How humbling to serve these men. May it touch their hearts.

There's lots of fun, special messages, small group time and food involved too. After all, teens and food go together like the beach and flip flops.

Thank you for your prayers!