The Christmas pageant, movie review.

 When a temperamental Broadway director(Melissa Gilbert) is fired from yet another job, she is forced to direct a community Christmas pageant. Instead of losing herself in her work, she finds herself  through the kindness of others.

 Here is a link to a blog with all the info:
http://www.christianfilmdatabase.com/christian-movie-news/the-christmas-pageant-cfdb-review-giveaway/
 It looks like a really good family friendly movie!
Love and blessings,
Lori LC

Amazing e-source for Christians!

http://www.gospelebooks.net/

 They have an extensive list of Kindle e-books, as well as links to help guide you on the Path of righteousness, for little or no cost.

  "We are a website that alerts you to Christian e-book deals for the Amazon Kindle. We regularly post free Christian e-books as well as cheap and discounted titles. Our mission is to help you build your e-book library at a fraction of the cost."



Look at this video for a short clip of comments:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJ_3492NGhw

There are daily bargains and many free e-books to check out.
Take a look, you'll be sure to find something that will interest you.

 Love and Blessings,
Lori LC

Autumn ramblings

Tonight was our town’s annual firemen’s parade. It was cold out, even with a sweatshirt, jacket, hat, gloves and small blanket on. We waited in the entrance of the barbershop to get out of the brisk wind. When the parade finally got on its way, we stood by the road between parked cars. A band of bag pipes led the way (why bag pipes, I don’t really know). My son is seven and his biggest hope was to have candy thrown at him from the trucks. He does enjoy watching fire trucks, and says he wants to be a fireman like his brother in law, but he just wanted candy tonight. 

My son and friend watching firemens parade

The trucks,rescues, marchers, horns,lights,noise...went on and on and on!... I kept covering my ears and turning away from the glare of the swirling emergency lights. He had sound proof head phones, so it didn’t bother his so much. He did get a few pieces of candy, just enough for it to be worth it for him to be out there. He did make my proud a few times. Each time a military member carried a flag past, my son saluted the flag in respect for it. I’m glad  he remembered to do that.
  

I kept looking for the end, but it was nearly thirty minutes llooonnnggg.. before the last vehicle blared past. It was then my son said his feet were as cold as ice and he could hardly walk. We had a large blanket I could have used to warm him, but that may have prevented him from  getting that last lollipop. I will have to be sure to check his feet the next time we’re out in the cold for a while. I know what it’s like to get frost bitten toes, it lasts for years and can be devastating to the feet.

  

The weekend is forecasted to be chilly and damp. I wonder if the last street hockey game will be cancelled. gee, that would be too bad to not be able to stand out by the rink for two hours. If it is on, I will be sure to pack many layers, and hot drinks.

 

 

<- Here is a pic of my son, using a hockey stick to high stick leaves into the goal. I should use that idea when doing the yard :)


Here's a pic of him playing goalie, -->
which he prefers because he doesn't have to run around the rink with the other players.

So,I don't celebrate Oct 31st

 As September comes to an end and October begins, it is inevitable. There are lovely displays of colorful pumpkins, mums, cornstalks and scare crows. Then there are some not-so-lovely displays, that -in my opinion, border on the hideous side. I'm all for decorating with the fore mentioned Autumn colors, but feel depressed when I see the black and dark colors of other displays.
 As a Christian, I am called to be a light in the world, so when I see things related to darkness, such as vampires, witches, ghouls, I feel uncomfortable. People do have a right to show whatever displays they like in their yard, and I choose fall colors over dark.
 With Halloween coming in a few weeks, people ask my son what he is dressing as. He feels pressured to have an answer because so many others are dressing up. I said he could dress up in something that Jesus would like, not darkness. He asked if he could go trick or treating and I said I wouldn't take him because I don't think it's right to  knock on people's doors to ask for candy. We have candy in the house and he has a history of tooth problems, so he doesn't need more candy. It's the dressing up part he wants to do. I am thinking of having a costume party the weekend before halloween so he can dress up with his friends and play games together.
 With so many things to be careful about these days, I think I have a right to choose not to celebrate the night of darkness. If others can freely say they don't celebrate Christmas or Easter, why do I get such weird looks when I say I don't celebrate Halloween?
These links summarize how I feel about having alternative parties on Halloween night:

http://christiananswers.net/q-eden/halloween.html#harvestparties

http://www.milehimama.com/faith/why-we-dont-celebrate-halloween/

http://carm.org/halloween

Happy Friday!!!

  This is the last Friday of September 2012. For those of us in New England, it signals the start of winter. Most of us have set aside this weekend to pack away Summer and take out the warm clothes. I have already used my jacket, and the wood stove is keeping us nice and cozy.
   The leaves have already turned brilliant shades of red, yellow and orange, and are now falling in preparation of hibernation. We are planning which trees we'll tap in the spring for yummy (real) maple syrup.
  My son spent part of the afternoon splashing in puddles that will soon freeze over. The screen house will also be taken down tomorrow. It was a terrific Summer, and this is one of the first times I am not looking forward to the Autumn change. Could be because I got a cold this week. or, just missing the days I could sit outside in the yard and listen to the gentle chirps of birds in  the neighborhood.
  Front steps are decorated with pumpkins, mums, and corn stalks. Blue jays have returned and pierce the air with their wretched screeches. We haven't put up a bird feeder yet, mostly because the last one rusted thoroughly through. But, there have been bear sightings in town and I don't want to lure them to the yard with all the kids around here(unless they really are pushing my buttons. (jk))
  Columbus Day weekend is in two weeks, which is when I plan to return to see my family in RI. My Grandma turns 95 this week and we want to have a party for her. She still lives on her own, and is very independent. She has slowed down a bit, but insists on doing as much as she can on her own.
Another thing I plan to do that weekend is go to the 33rd annual Autumnfest in the town I'm from. I always look forward to it because I went there every year when it began until I moved to NH, and try going as often as I can. There will be a parade, fireworks,music, food, and rides. Lots of things for us to do!
   One thing I am looking forward to is our friend who traveled to Ca. just became engaged and is moving back to NH. I feel sorry she didn't get to stay long, but she did get there and saw what it's like. I give her major kudos for following her dream :) They will be planning their wedding and the rest of their life together <3
   So, this season brings changes, for better or worse. I will seek God to lead me in His path so there will be less chance of me stepping in poo .
  I hope you have a great Autumn and write me a note as to what you plan on doing these next few weeks :)
Thanks,
'Love and blessings,
Lori LC

Post From: Cindy's Random Thoughts: Everyday Matters Bible For Women

Cindy's Random Thoughts: Everyday Matters Bible For Women: Recently I was given the opportunity to read and review a new Bible that has been geared toward women. This New Living Translation is wr...

DarkRoom, book review

Cover of darkroom, by Joshua Graham

 "After scattering her mother's ashes in Vietnam, photojournalist Xandra Carrick comes home to New York to rebuild her life and career. When she experiences supernatural visions that reveal atrocities perpetrated by American soldiers during the Vietnam War, she finds herself entangled in a forty-year-old conspiracy that could bring the nation into political turmoil.

Launching headlong into a quest to learn the truth from her father, Peter Carrick, a Pulitzer Prize Laureate who served as an embedded photographer during the war, Xandra confronts him about a dark secret he has kept—one that has devastated their family.

Her investigations lead her to her departed mother's journal, which tell of love, spiritual awakening, and surviving the fall of Saigon.

Pursued across the continent, Xandra comes face-to-face with powerful forces that will stop at nothing to prevent her from revealing the truth. But not before government agencies arrest her for murder, domestic terrorism and an assassination attempt on the newly elected president of the United States." (excerpt from darkroom fb page)



 My review:
   The one word that comes to mind when describing Darkroom is riveting!
 The search for truth about past events, are coming into view through Xandra's photos, and could cost her her life, as well as those who are trying to protect her.
You're not sure who to trust and are kept wondering what is going to happen next.
  There are a few surprises, especially at the end.
If you like suspense,plots, some romance, and an all around good story, I recommend darkroom, by Joshua Graham.

https://www.facebook.com/Darkroom.Graham

Another really good book by Joshua Graham, which I also recommend: 
Beyond Justice
* Amazon #1 Bestseller 
*Winner of the 2011 International Book Awards
* Listed in Suspense Magazine's Best of 2010

 http://www.amazon.com/Joshua-Graham

or, visit his website at:
http://joshua-graham.com/

Spider Brains, book review

Spider Brains

 Sp(e)ider Brains, A Love Story is written by Susan Wingate.

   The story is about a teenage girl, Susie Speider, who is struggling to get through high school after losing her dad to a car wreck. Her penchant for learning words had me smiling, because I have always enjoyed adding unusual words to my vocabulary. Susie is also struggling with ADHD, new meds, and a teacher who seems to relish crushing her at every opportunity.
  When she tries getting a closer look at a spider one night, it bites her on the finger. What happens next is a web of fantastic events, such as her nightly jaunts with her cat to the teacher's house(where she meets a boy spider), new neighbors that seem odd to Susie, and an awesome spider project that the teacher finds horrifying because she is terrified of all things arachnid. Susie gives credit to her new spider powers for being able to focus, but her mom is worried Susie really believes she's a spider.
   I think the book was a really good read. It is well written and kept me interested to the end.
  I recommend this book to all who enjoy a story about relationships, loss, rebuilding, (and a little revenge)
 You can learn more about this book at:
https://www.facebook.com/SpiderBrainsALoveStory?ref=stream
and
http://susanwingate.wordpress.com/

My day on 9/11/2001..

   My day started as any other, with dropping off my kids at school before heading to work. While at work, my daughter's school nurse called to ask if I could pick her up because she was feeling sick. I picked her up and brought her home to rest on the couch.While scanning channels for a show she could watch, I noticed a news bulletin about one of the Twin Towers being on fire. They still hadn't known the cause.
 My husband was also home getting ready to leave for work. He reached out and took my hand.and we watched in wonder at what was happening. I was glad he was by my side.
  Not long after, the second tower was hit! We were shocked and stunned!  WHAT!? How could this happen?! No words could describe the fear and confusion we felt. Reports of other airplanes being hijacked and used to create human bombs against the United States of America started coming in. When the Pentagon was hit, I realized how calculated and broad the scope of the attacks were.We sat in shock, unable to comprehend what was unfolding minute by minute.  Our country was under attack and thousands of innocent lives were taken. I couldn't tear myself from watching the reports. It didn't seem real to see planes flown into high profile buildings or crashed on purpose. I wanted to know why. What could make people hate me so much that they were killing my countrymen.Some footage showed panicked victims trying to flee the burning towers by jumping. Only one is known to have survived. The smoke and pandemonium was awful. When the first tower fell, our jaws dropped. It looked like it imploded. Would the other one also fall? would it topple over and crush everyone on the block, or implode like the first? When it also fell straight down, we were surprised and gasped at how huge the plume of rubble and dust flew up and around.

“Freedom itself was attacked this morning by a faceless coward and freedom will be defended.” “We will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail,” George W. Bush

WE WILL RISE AND REBUILD

. We knew America was about to change, for better or worse.
   When my husband left for work, he found there was no cell phone service. No way of getting in touch besides a pay phone. All air traffic was halted. Life and the comfort zone we felt were forever changed.
As for those involved in the rescue efforts, as one quote posted on a memorial states:
 All gave some.
Some gave all.
We will not forget!

God bless America.

The American Bible Challenge: Review and info :)

The American Bible Challenge

A family-friendly game show, on The Game Show Network, Thursdays, at 8 p.m. ET/PT,

Comedian,Jeff Foxworthy, hosts this game show that makes you wish you paid more attention in church. The show has contestants from around the country who have varying degrees of knowledge of the bible, and are playing for a charity, and these charitable organizations range from churches to hospitals.

The goal is to have a fun show that is biblically accurate, and to make a difference. Contestants can win up to $20,000 for the charity of their choice. Jeff also says it helps people to learn more about what God says about Himself, as well as themselves. and adds that God has a sense of humor.

Along with having fun with the questions, Jeff adds his trademark Redneck jokes, such as saying if Larry the cable guy met God at the burning bush, he would have taken out a hotdog on a coat hanger. lol!

The game is done in a respectful manner, true to the actual written word and celebrates the bible in an appealing way.

Thank you!

For more info about The American Bible Challenge, visit any of the sites below.

Love and Blessings,

Lori LC

The American Bible Challenge

(premieres August 23 at 8/7c on Game Show Network)

Website: http://gsntv.com/shows/the-american-bible-challenge/

Trailer: http://gsntv.com/shows/the-american-bible-challenge/videos/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theamericanbiblechallenge

Twitter: #TheAmericanBibleChallenge and @GSN

 Read more: http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/20-bible-quiz-questions-for-kids/#ixzz24rWPFWr7
 
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Wordless Wednesday =)

                         

Wordless Wednesday

I recommend this blogger page on author Staci Stallings.

http://pennyzeller.wordpress.com/2012/05/24/interview-and-giveaway-with-author-staci-stallings

She sounds like a really good, honest writer.
I'm always looking for authors who are family friendly, as well as the story being interesting.
You can find out more about Staci at one of these sites:
 Christian living blog, Spirit Light Books is at:  http://spiritlightbooks.wordpress.com
My Christian Romance Novel site (where you can read the first chapter, an excerpt, and reviews for all of my books):  http://ebookromancestories.com
All of my books can be found at:  http://stacistallings.wordpress.com
Twitter:  @StaciStallings
Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Spirit-Light-Author-Staci-Stallings/266593276699576


I think you'll like her writing =)

Love and Blesssings,
Lori LC

Mother's day =)

Family gathering at my Mom's about 1992

 Since there are so many blogs and articles about Mother's day, I wasn't going to write one here. As you can see, I changed my mind. I realize that most mothers are the ones who shape the family and keep it running, although-not always as smooth as we would like it to be.
My Mom was raised in a home with a stay at home Mom and a hard working Dad. They stayed married through many trials and triumphs. Family gatherings were always held at their home, and we knew when it was cramped, it meant the food was ready :) We were taught to have respect for our elders, to have manners and to let the adults have all the good seats around the food table.
  My Mom brought us up as mostly a single, hard working parent. My two brothers, sister and I grew up knowing things were tight and yet we always had Christmas and big birthday celebrations. Mom always celebrated our birthdays with cake, ice cream and a special cake =)
   My Mom's parents were from two very different backgrounds. Grandma was English,her maiden name was Winsor(the 'd' was dropped when they emigrated) and she was Protestant. Grandpa's last name was Larue, and was from a very French background. They spoke only French when my Mom was young and had to learn English as they grew up. He was  Catholic, but he let his wife do all the religious duties in the house. She was very tall and blond, he was very short and had very dark hair.slicked back with some sort of sticky stuff.It's funny how opposites really do attract. One thing we all knew, they loved each other very much and told each other each and every day <3

an impromptu web cam pic <3

Mom tried being fair and didn't show favoritism, (much) I also have tried being fair, which doesn't really matter anyway. No matter how equally you cut the cake, someone is going to complain they got the smallest piece. My motto has been 'Stay cool and calm', 'Unflappable'. When the kids went out the door, I usually said,"Have fun, and be safe. I love you." I tried welcoming them home when they got back and let them know I'm glad they're here. I tried keeping dialogue open by asking questions about there day, or commenting about my own. They often replied with,nothing. or, a really brief reply. When it was time for them to go to bed, I tried giving them a hug and told them I love them. But, I almost always said,"Sweet sleep. Love ya." and kissed them on the cheek.
 My oldest daughter loved it when I sang lullabies and prayed together. My second liked it when I sang, but preferred it when I read a story, such as The Cat in the Hat, or The Three Bears. My son never liked my singing and occasionally liked me to read a story. He just wanted me to rest with him , tuck him in and give him a kiss on the cheek. I always pray for them but usually by myself.

we surprised middle child with an early birthday party =)

I absolutely love being a Mom and celebrate my kids on Mother's Day. Even on the toughest day, I know the trial will pass and it will be the way we get through it that they will remember and treat their own family. No argument is worth tearing the family apart. I always try to use kind words and avoid the trap of accusations. The times I get into it, it's hard to get out.
  I still call my Mom on Mother's day and other times just to say I'm thinking of her. Even just a few minutes talking to her is nice. I know there will come a day I won't have the opportunity to tell her I love her, so I take the time to do it now. My Grandma used to say,I'd rather get one flower when I'm alive than a truck full when I'm dead. She knew the importance of seizing the day.
  That is becoming my motto,too =)
I hope you have a great day, and try telling someone in your family that you care about them, then show it by being extra kind. as it is written, Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.Mark 10:45

Love and blessings,
Lori LC

May is Here =)

Dandelion dreamer

   With the arrival of May, I can't help but smile at the thought that Spring has finally made it to New Hampshire. Even though it rained all day, I heard sun is in the forecast :)  Flowers have already begun to bloom and insects arrived early due to the burst of warm weather we had briefly a few weeks ago. Where we usually have patches of ice in the yard,there is already grass and dandelions.
   There are about thirty days of school to get through, then we count the days til the kids are back in school.lol. I work in an elementary school and have seen that the kids and staff already are looking ahead to June 18th,when we get out. We're already planning to send my son to camp and are looking forward to my daughter visiting in July. I'm considering tutoring a few days a week for the summer, I would enjoy that.
   I have been sneezing so much lately, so much pollen and dust in the air. The rain helped a little, but the plants and grass are blossoming and, as beautiful as they are, my sinuses think they are bad :/
Taking a dose of children's allergy med helps relieve the symptoms, but sometimes makes my too drowsy to take during the day. I thought my daughter had allergies when she complained of a sore throat, but when she had me look a second time a few days later, the redness and white blotches confirmed her thoughts of having strep-again. poor kid, but she's over it now and feels better.
My husband is the one who is dying of a cold now. He really drags it out, hacking and sneezing all over the place. I go around the house when he's in bed and sanitize everything. He whines worse than the kids and is wicked clingy when he doesn't feel well. I appease him by asking if there is anything I can do and hope he needs me to go to the store for something so I can get out without feeling guilty for leaving him home sick. He'll be better soon, I hope the whining goes with the sickness.
   My son will be seven next month. just when I thought I was done having birthday parties, sleepovers, school concerts, homework battles, report cards, dating rules, making kids get up for school, paying for school events, making lunches, and every other thing a parent does for their school age child. I am nearly one year down and 11 more (or so) to go...He is due to graduate in 2023, 17 years after my first child graduated, and 12 after my second graduated. I love nearly everything about being a parent, except dealing with homework. or friendship heartaches. most everything else is what makes being a mom so special, no one else can take the place of what I love doing most, loving my kids <3
   My oldest is about to celebrate their second wedding anniversary. She has an awesome husband and terrific in-laws who really care about her. I just with they lived closer to NH than SC,but, they are happy and blessed and that's what a parent wants for their grown children in life. They are waiting for the big step of parenthood, and when it happens, I know they'll be great! My second child is currently working more hours than me and doesn't complain about it. She also takes classes three nights a week and is doing well at that. I'm really proud of her =)
   Life in general is really good right now, and God is awesome, no matter what.
I hope you are also well, you are cared about <3
Love and blessings,
 Happy May!!
Lori LC  
 
 

  
  

Some week! Life is a rolllercoaster!

  This week wasn't overly busy, but still seemed long!  Monday was the final class for the psychology course I had to take!! Yay! I'm sure I passed the final, but am not too confident about the term paper I wrote ( about speech and language) I'm not a fantastic writer from the start, but add in having to have specific citations, outlines, and have to put it all in APA format..I'm just not sure how I did on it.


Tuesday started out pretty well, I was hoping to relax and have a leisurely evening without any homework or stresses :) But!  my son wasn't feeling well and, as most parents know, a sick child slows down most of anything productive in the schedule. I knew he wasn't feeling well when my usually high energy,talkative boy got in the van after school and sat silently for nearly ten minutes. The only time he's quiet is when he's being naughty(taking a sugary snack,etc) or sick. He didn't have a sly grin on his face,so I figured he wasn't feeling well.  Another tell tale sign is when he went in the house instead of wanting to go outside, which is where he usually goes after school, he flopped on the couch and didn't even turn the tv on. It wasn't until bed time that he had a fever of 101*. He fell right to sleep.

asleep in the afternoon,
a sure sign of fever

 I'm thankful to have a daughter old enough to have stayed home with him a few days while I worked, though he mostly rested and played kindle most of the time. I only had to take one day off instead of three. The fever fluctuated between 99-102 for several days,and trying to get him to take any meds was near impossible. He was also coughing,but he refused meds for that,too. Not that I want to drug my kid, just lessen the symptoms so his body could regain strength. He was so clingy, I could barely leave the room without him following like a puppy. He was covered in a blanket with sweats on and he still had chills. Should I have kept waiting to see how he would turn, or call the pediatrician to ask their advice? I chose to wait. if it had spiked to over 102 or lasted longer, I would have called.

 The next day, he seemed to feel better. At first he had a low grade fever,by afternoon the temp was normal, so I let him go out for a while. I was hoping the fresh air would help him feel better. When he got in ,the temp rose again : / 
 On Friday, the temp was again normal. I had to take my daughter to the orthodontist,then had lunch at Friendly's :) I took a box out of the van to drop off at the site, but whenI went to open the door, there was a sign that read 'CLOSED for inventory' Really?! so, I'll have to go back on Monday.yippee..
   My daughter went for a job interview, and got hired on the spot  (BK). She is so happy about it! (as are we) She then had her piano lesson, and I went to pick up a 'quick' bite from the golden arches. only, it wasn't so quick! after paying for it I was told to pull over to wait for my meal. All I wanted was chicken selects,fries and a crispy wrap! nothing major, right? only, I was there for almost a full ten minutes! (or so it seemed,not sure how long it actually was.) when she finally came out,she didn't apologize.just thrust it at me and walked off. not good customer service.I then rushed to pick up my daughter to watch her brother while I went to a womens' mtg at church. We started a study on psalm 91, a very powerful prayer for oursleves and our family.an excellent study so far.  Then, I got home to pick her up again and bring her to a friend's for a sleep over(why do they call it that anyway? we all know they don't really sleep.lol :p)
  So, Saturday(today) was spent trying to catch up on things put off all week. I was hoping to get more accomplished, but I was happy to get the laundry and dusting done!My son's temp is still normal and he seems to be feeling better =)
 Tomorrow is church,grocery shopping and ...I'm really not sure. God willing , something good is going to happen =)

HAPPY APRIL!!!

  I hope you have a good day,too!
Love and blesings,
Lori LC

TGIF! It has been a fun kinda day :) (long post)

What I saw on the ride home.

   This day started out with me coming home around midnight, happily exhausted from driving close to two hours from a concert in the middle of Vermont. I won a ticket to see the Newsboys in Barre',Vermont, which I didn't realize just how far it was up and down long stretches of highways. (The concert, drive and music experience will be another blog entry :)
   After close to two hours of driving on dark highways, watching out for roaming deer, bear , moose and whatever other creatures like to play chicken on dark roads, I got home. I think I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow, which is rare for me.(unlike my husband, who can fall asleep in less than five minutes)
   I woke up to my son having a bad dream, at about 4 am, thankfully, his dad went in to comfort him and help him fall back to sleep. My watch/alarm was downstairs,so I missed the wake up call. I considered calling in  sick, but it was only a half day for me, and it's Friday.(We can only wear jeans on Friday) We rushed to get to school, and I forgot to pack my son a snack. His teacher provided one for him, so it was ok. All morning, I kept thinking how good a nap would feel,but it would have to wait. darn rules, can't sleep in class.lol.
   I had a pretty good day. My husband later took me out to eat, good food and company.we took a short drive around town, it was a lovely sunny Spring day!
  I got home to homework, which is haunting me because the last class is Monday. I need to write a 6-8 page essay on speech, study vocab, and learn three essay answers for the final exam. It will all come to a head in three days.! Pray for me =)

Very similar to mine,minus the horsey

  As I studied, my feet felt cool so I put some fleece socks.  They felt so comfy. sure, you could say it was another way for me to get out of my seat, but my feet felt so happy :)
   I later went to walMart and was really surprised, and annoyed, at how packed it was. I was about to go in, when I realized I was still wearing my fuzzy socks, with my sandals.lol. I considered just going in as is, but there are already enough fashion-don'ts in there, and I didn't want to end up on the People of walMart web site. I left them in the van. I wish I had taken them in with the groceries when I got home because my feet miss them.
 so, it was wicked crowded, and it's not even the first of the month. The peeps display was adorable, as was the candy aisle, and such cute stuffed animals. I didn't feel the slightest urge to buy any. I did,however, pet one of the plushies. It was so soft and fuzzy. I just kept walking..
   ok, so I went to use the bathroom, (it was pretty clean). as I adjusted my body a bit, the auto flusher roared under my behind and scared the bejeebers outta me! yikes! it was unexpected and Loud! I quickly exited because I was so spooked.(yes, I did remember to wash my hands ;p )
   After shopping  and browsing a while, I knew I couldn't put it off any longer. It was time to go home. I always enjoy the inner peace and (relatively) undisturbed quiet time spent when I don't have the kids with me. I linger around departments until the attendant eyeballs me suspiciously. I don't choose the shortest lines, no. I pick a line where someone may engage me in conversation, maybe even a line with interesting items to pretend to be interested in. This doesn't happen every time I shop, just when I have to study for a big test- ok, just kidding(kinda) but, when hubby is home with the kids, I tend to take my time so he can enjoy spending time with them. I'm nice like that <3
   I came home to find him working on his awesome clock project (pic below), my daughter was relaxing on the lawn with her laptop and my son was at the neighbor's. So, I didn't miss too much,anyway. 
   After dinner/supper, I coaxed hubby to take a walk. We used to go on hikes in the White Mountains, climbed trails, even bush-whacked. Now, it takes pleading to get us to walk around the block. I told him my goal is to get back to hiking, maybe start with Arrowhead, Sunapee,or  Monadnock Mt. We need to get back in to shape, it helps keep our marriage and family in shape as well.
   It was a really nice 3/4 mile walk. We saw our son, still at the neighbor's, playing with unloaded Nerf guns. When my girls were young, I had a strict no-guns rule. but my son turns everything from sticks to blocks and anything he gets his hands on, into some type of weapon. It worried  me that he did that, until I talked to other parents and they said their kids did the same thing. I don't condone guns or weapons, but we go over rules with him we hope he will follow when we're not around.
   My son eventually came home, had a bubble bath and then watched the show Gold Rush, his latest obsession.  He plays gold rush around the yard, which explains the random ditches around the yard, and the jars of yellow pebbles. Someday he'll grow out of playing pretend and act grown up,but for now, I'm enjoying every minute of his awesome imagination.

<3 a PMC original <3

 I guess I should get back to studying for my Human Development class. I do want to pass with a good grade. The clock my husband made is striking ten. Time to devote an hour to my work.
  I thank God for this day =) He is awesome!!

I hope you also had a terrific day!
Love and blessings,
Lori LC
 
   ps. this is the first Friday in weeks I didn't sing the Friday song to my daughter. I think I just may have to text her right before bed. ;p

School spirit week = community spirit :)

This week was school spirit week at our elementary school. The fifth graders got together and chose what theme each day would be. Compared to other years, this was rather tame :)
Monday kicked the week off with Crazy hair day. Many students and teachers either put weird and crazy braids,pony tails, colors in their hair. Some spiked it or did other fun ways to show their school spirit. I put in a zig zag band with gel to make mine stand up. My son allowed me to put gel in his to make it stand up like a porcupine, At six,he's not too crazy about standing out,yet.

Crazy Hair Day!!

 Tuesday was School shirt day, when everyone wears a shirt with the school logo on it.  We each wore ours proudly!
Wednesday was Crazy Hat/Wig/Mis-match/Fashion Disaster Day. It is always fun to wear mis-matched outfits because it's something I do without really trying pretty often. I wore a floral print skirt with a non matching shirt, sneakers, knee highs and different color socks. My son wore blue wind pants with a red striped shirt, He was not really into wearing unmatching socks or shoes.
Thursday was almost a competitive day, with Support a Sport day. People wore jerseys of their favorite teams, and some dressed up as an athlete, complete with helmet and knee pads.
 Friday wrapped up the week with Go Green Day. Most wore green shirts,pants, socks, etc. Some wore environmentally friendly items to show Eco-green day. It was fun because tomorrow is St.Patrick's Day,when many will wear green then,too.
 It felt good the school was coordinated and we were connected by doing the same thing at the same time. A mini community that took the time to talk and laugh together. It was a really fun week, and I look forward to doing it next year.  wonder what they'll come up with then? :)

Three Hearts: video review

   The video Three Hearts follows the internship of Cissie Graham at Samaritan’s Purse. She is working with the Children’s Heart Project, which is dedicated to saving the lives of children who have severe heart defects. The team has chosen two kids to receive the life-saving surgery, but Cissie pleads for the life of a third. A little girl named Toggie has captured their hearts :) The three children are from very rural areas in Mongolia and the trip is no small feat for the families to consider. 
   Once the arrangements have been made, they fly together to a whole different way of life, in San Antonio, Texas. They enjoyed seeing the the things we consider part of everyday living, such as refrigerators, dish washers and running water. They also had fun shopping at a thrift store, lots of buys for so little money.
   The tone became more serious when they discussed the impending surgeries. The moms were naturally worried, as there are always risks when doing heart surgery. The kids were also concerned, but knew life would be so much better when it was done. 
   There are a few scenes of the surgeries, but not too graphic. More interesting than anything.
You'll be waiting for the outcome as each child is going through the procedure, and hoping the next call from the operating room is saying "All is well".
   I recommend this video for anyone who is considering becoming a part of Samaritan's purse, or other cultural exchange that effects families. The support they received was awesome and maks me consider becoming more involved.

Three Hearts DVD

Youtube Trailer Links: http://youtu.be/sMUA8lbbkDU 

Youtube Trailer Links: http://youtu.be/1aUxbJd15fk  

Christian Book Distributors Link: http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=320721

Thank you,
Blessings,
Lori LC

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services 

mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I 

only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 

I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: 

"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Home made Play dough

After a futile search for my son's box of store bought Doh, I decided to take matters in my own hands, literally, and make our own. I had made a batch many years ago and knew what a potential mess we were in for, and yet, I still opted to make it.

Step 1) re-research ingredients.

 youtube is always me first stop when looking for a hands-on activity, and it didn't disappoint.
I let my son decide which link to click on and he chose  NickosBABYFOOD . (There are many different kids recipes on this site, we may be back soon.)

The recipe calls for:

2 cups plain flour
2 cups water
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp cream of tartar
1 cup salt

*(Wear gloves when kneading color into dough. If you have no gloves, use toothpaste to get the stains off your hands.)
 
step 2)  add ingredients into a COLD pan, stir til mixed, THEN put heat on low.







Step 3) Stir Continuously,
 until a large firm ball of dough is formed.
( I needed help stirring toward the end as it got really tough)






 (The pan looked a mess, but that's science for ya)


 The dough ball was warm and very pliable, and a bit sticky!






step 4) Place dough on a clean surface you don't mind getting messy.
Knead dough until it is smooth and firm.








5)Break into smaller balls of the size you want to use.

We got six with ours.

6)Place dough onto baking paper to protect surface from coloring.
Poke holes in center and add coloring, a few drops go a long way.
(Be sure to wear plastic gloves if you don't want perma- stained fingers )
Squish dough to spread color evenly.









7) Play with dough as usual, then store in baggies or other container to keep in moisture,
and keep in a place where it won't get lost, like ours :)

Hope this was helpful and fun to see, we sure enjoyed making it!

Have a fun day=)
Blessings,
Lori LC

My Winter Break vacation

   This week has been the week of winter break for our school district. Since I work for the district (for this reason) I also have the week off. After weeks of being busy, studying for  class I'm taking, and the everyday rush of life, I chose to not plan much at all. I have done a few things around the house, most of the time we have either gone shopping with the kids, played wii, read, done puzzles or or just relaxed with a game or a nap. I really feel refreshed and happy.

    Later today, I'll join my son in playing in the freshly fallen snow. He has already been out to help shovel for the neighbors, such a good boy =)  The trees by my window are bowed down with the weight of the snow, but they'll soon be straightened when it warms to above freezing. There's an analogy of my life  with the cares of the world in there and how Christ makes them slide off when I look up to Him, but my brain is in vacation mode and just doesn't want to muster up the neurons right now :)

   The only thing I really want to do is visit my Grandma in RI. I enjoy spending time with her, and know that at 94 she really wants to go Home to be with the Lord. Her body just keeps holding on. She's still independent, living on her own, just recently gave up her license due to fading eyesight. I will truly miss her when she passes on, but know how much she is ready to go. Since my Dad died in 1999, she has been depressed and has given up wanting to enjoy life. It must be a terrible thing to lose a child, no matter how old they are:(

   I'm going to call her today, and my Mom and talk about the snow we got. Mom lives in Georgia so she'll get a kick out of it and how they haven't had to shovel in years :) and I'll mention that at least I can go outside in the summer and not worry about heatstroke, red ants or venomous snakes!

  Ah, vacation and family. Makes me really happy and thankful <3
Hope you have a great day!
Blessings,
Lori LC

A few things I learned today..

We've all heard the saying "We learn something new everyday", and I am proof of that, no matter how small each tidbit may be.

One thing I learned: mini vans require three different windshield wipers, three sizes, each sold separately..
so, I went to buy windshield wipers for my van,which is usually left to Hubby,
but I wanted to do it to save him the time.
 I made sure I looked up the right size, chose a good brand,etc.
  when I got home and handed him the box, he said,'where's the other one?'
 what other one? isn't there one box for the set? he looked at me with a smile.
 'Didn't you notice it showed different sizes for the blades?' 
yes, but I didn't know they were sold separately. 

Note to self: BUY TWO WIPERS!

He sighed and put the one on, which was the one that was ripped and needed replacing any way.

Lesson two: ask what is in a sandwich you're ordering if you never had it before:
I stopped at a  restaurant on the way to class and ordered a stir fry chicken quesadilla.sounded yummy. What i failed to consider is what they use for stir fry. 
I sometimes like bell peppers and onion, but not right before a three hour class. 
I'd end up hiccuping the entire time.

yummy,just not a good choice before class

What I ended up doing is taking most of the veggies off, including mushrooms, and ate the very tasty chicken with cheese. 
 Two very simple, yet important lessons I'll remember. some may consider mistakes to be stupid inconveniences, but, as an educator I love using everything as a way to learn and grow.


Have you learned anything new lately?
Blessings,
Lori LC

New Pureflix movie released in a few days!!

If you like family friendly media, you'll love this :

Apostle Peter And The Last Supper

http://pureflix.com/blog/

http://youtu.be/GVjyIcZupIk


written by Pure Flix:

"

Pure Flix is a Christian movie studio that produces, distributes, and acquires Christ
centered movies for the sole purpose of changing our culture for Christ, one heart at
a time. Our mission since day one has remained the same and we continue to strive
to make a difference for His name.

THE PURE FLIX CHALLENGE
Hollywood has played a major role in shaping our current culture by controlling
most of the media we experience today.
We challenge you to stand up for Christ and share these heart-felt movies with your
families, friends, communities and church to impact our world for Christ.
We hope you enjoy our morning devotionals as well as our behind the scenes videos
and blogs, live from the set of our new movies.
We want to thank you personally, if not for your support, prayers, and purchases of
our DVD’s, Pure Flix would be unable to continue making Christ centered films with
positive messages that share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
On behalf of the Pure Flix Family, God bless.
Our best regards,
-Pure Flix
Pure Flix Entertainment, LLC"


check it out and let me know what you think :)
Blessings,
~Lori

When a Teen Gets Their License..

From the time they are young, kids are always talking about when they get their license, what kind of car they'll drive and where they want to go when they do. it seems when they are about to turn 16, they think they'll magically get a license and take the parent's car every time they want to go somewhere.
  Both my daughters took driver's ed at 16, but then waited until they were 18 to take the driving test. My eldest is a very calm person, very nonchalant and was a breeze to teach how to follow the rules of the road. She has been on the road since then, or so it seems because she now lives in SC instead of NH.
  My second kid is a bit more high strung. I wasn't as enthused about driving with her, but it had to be done. After 2 years, she finally said she was ready to go. She passed the written test, then took the driving portion. The instructor said it usually takes about 15-20 minutes. When they hadn't returned by 25, I was getting a bit antsy. What could possibly be taking so long?! 30 minutes passed. Were they ok? crashed? stopping for a snack? What?! They finally got back and she was smiling. He had her drive around town and park a few times. She actually passed her driving test the first time!

 I didn't realize it, but I was holding my breath. I let out a deep sigh and took my keys back. I knew I was going to be the one driving home.
  Now we have 'discussions' on why can't she use my van to pick her friends up or get her hair done. We told her she can get a car when she has a job to support it. I hope it's soon ..

~a week later: and a peek at my own early driving days..
It's not easy handing over the keys to my mini van. My source of transportation and mobile freedom.
Thoughts of my own years as a young driver pass through my mind. I wasn't exactly careful with my Mom's Chevy Chevette.  It was a standard and we lived in a city built on hills, so the clutch got quite a workout. My van is an automatic and there are fewer hills, but I still think about my immature thought process, which was not helped when there were friends with me. I can't believe I let them drive her car and how reckless I acted then. My friends, Michelle and Kathy, weren't even close to having a license, but that didn't stop me from thinking it would be all right. Michelle was about 14 or so and I was dating her brother. I guess I was trying to gain brownie points or something. They both did fine and my mother never knew, but couldn't understand why her clutch seemed to not work well on some days.

<3 My girls circa 1994 <3

I don't encourage this, and even warn against it, but I'm just saying I know how young drivers sometimes forget to engage their brains and may cause problems with their mother's vehicles.
I let my daughter drive it to her friend's, at night. she has to be back by ten, which is in about 20 minutes. I want to text her to casually ask how it's going, but she'd know right away i was checking up on her. She's 18 and becoming independent. It's time I stop being a helicopter parent and let her live for a change.( as long as my van gets back as it was when she left :)
 The apron string is nearly snapped,and my fingers are chaffed from holding on so long and hard. I think I'm really ready to let her grow up now and become the confident woman I know she can be..
She'll always be my little Daisy girl <3

February 6,2012

February 6th has always been a day I celebrate, personally and occasionally,a little selfishly. I was born on this day in 1966. My parents and family were always big on celebrating events, and birthdays were no exception. I felt special when my Mom put together a party for each of us on our day, and my dad and his family celebrated events in their home as well. They let us choose what cake we wanted, I often chose Carvel with the chocolate crumb middle, or the cream cake from the bakery on Front St.
As I got older, we still made note of it, but my own kids took center stage when it came to parties. There was the one embarrassing party that included a giddy clown on a sweltering July afternoon, (the first and last clown party)

Me on 2/6/12

But, lately, I've been reconsidering this day to mean more than doing something for myself. One idea I read about was Will Smith and his family donating to a charity on their birthdays, which is something I am looking into. Donating clean water to impoverished areas is one way they help that I am interested in being involved in.
 This year was a little hard for me to enjoy because someone special lost their courageous battle with cancer. I didn't know her in person, but know her family and have read her blog, called Baldie's Blog.
She wrote about her treatments and the hopes she would beat it so her son would have a mom to grow up with. My heart felt heavy when we heard she had liver failure. In a way, I felt privileged that her passing from this life to the eternal was on this day. It sounds kinda weird, but I'll always remember her and do something special for someone else in memory of Hillary. I felt guilty from feeling relief that she isn't in pain anymore, and I hope it doesn't offend anyone. I'm not glad in any way but knowing she's not fighting for her life any more <3
 Her blogs helped many cope with their own life battles and her strength and warmth will be her lasting legacy. We can only hope we have a positive influence on others and be remembered with a smile.

Hillary's blog  can be found at
http://baldiesblog.blogspot.com/

Hillary the Courageous!

Reach out to someone and let them know you care!
Love and blessings,
~Lori

Movie review: A Mile In His Shoes

 

 A Mile In His Shoes  Is a movie based on the story of Mickey Tussler, a boy with Asperger's who was discovered by a coach who saw him pitching apples to the pigs, and decided to give him a chance at playing for the River Rats.

 I enjoyed seeing Mickey gain confidence in his pitching skills, as well as finding friendship in his team mates. 

 

 I watched this movie with an 18 year old young lady and 21 year old young man, and they both said they thought the movie was "Amazing!" and "Inspiring!"

The father tried sheltering Mickey from getting hurt by the world, but it was just as bad for him to not have a life outside of what the father demanded. The coach, played by Dean Cain, saw potential in not only Mickey's pitching, but also as someone who needed to grow in life. The coach's own loss in life made him distant in life, but Mickey's faith helped him face it and come to terms with it.

I recommend this as a film to those who enjoy a good family movie; there is a fight scene and some yelling, so it's not for little children.

Thank you!

Blessings,

~Lori LC

*Each purchase of A Mile In His Shoes includes

a custom 4x6 painting from Thomas Kinkade Paintings.

 For more info on this movie, visit these sites:

Website: http://www.watchgmctv.com/video/mile-his-shoes#biography

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Mile-In-His-Shoes/270101973014772?sk=wall

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ev2T0BFetH4

Dove Foundation Review: http://www.dove.org/reviewmasterframe.asp

 “Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or

services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it 

on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally 

and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance 

with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the 

Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”