Fun Stuff Everybody!

Check out the Matthew family giveaway. I think this is a very fun fundraiser.

Heart Check-up

I am one that thinks it is totally exceptable to think that ones own children are the most adorable children in the world. I also believe it shouldn't stop there. The Bible tells us in I Samuel 17:7B that "Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." I have been praying about this as we are about to begin a new school year. So much of school for us is centered on heart training. I try to teach my children that all we learn throughout the year should bring honor and glory to God and that their actions should always put others first. My Sunday school teacher handed out a poem a few weeks back that I want to share. As I prepare my own mind and heart to teach my children this year I pray I can be the example that God wants me to be.

I'd rather see a sermon, than hear one any day:
I'd rather one should walk with me, than merely show the way;
The eye's a better pupil, and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing but example's always clear.
And best of all the preachers, are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everbody needs.
I soon can learn to do it, if you'll let me see it done:
I can see your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lectures you deliver may be very fine and true:
But I'd rather get my lesson by observing what you do:
For I may not understand you and the high advice you give.
But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

unknown author

So now here are some pictures of those adorable children. These were taken while boating on our camping trip last week.







Here are pictures of the adorable cousins we were camping with. I just love the sunglasses!

Another Milestone Gone By

My six year old lost his very first tooth last night. The difference between his initial reaction and mine were like black and white. He was jumping up and down with excitement and I had tears in my eyes. To me a tiny tooth in his little grasp was another goodbye. Goodbye to that sweet little boy smile! Those big teeth, no matter how straight and pearly white, just look so grown up. I suppose that is why we call them grown-up teeth. My wise ten year old upon seeing my reaction said, "He is getting old, soon he will have gray hair and a bald spot!" It helps to be reminded that their are many firsts to be had yet! Here are a few other firsts that brought tears to my eyes:
1. First night in big boy crib
2. First giggle
3. First kiss
4. First step
5. First time saying mama and I love you
6. First day in Sunday School
7. Last day with his first Sunday School teacher
8. First time on a two wheel bike (I'm not sure why-just seemed big)
9. First Christmas performance at church (and each one since)
10. First time writing his own name
Admittedly I didn't cry when he slept through the night or went to big boy undies. Maybe tears of joy!

Adonu had a first a few days ago that made me cry for a whole different reason. His first filling. I cried because he cried. I cried because I felt GUILTY! It was so painful to watch him go through this. Before the procedure started, the dentist said, "I see kids from Ethiopia who are 16 with perfect teeth. It isn't until they come to the United States and start eating so much sugar that this happens." I think he was basically telling me that the cavity was all my fault. As if I didn't feel bad enought! He then started drilling on my baby who started to scream and had to be held down. I was feeling very low! So was Adonu!



Following this difficult visit to the dentist, I decided to take my kids to the zoo for the day. I even bought the kids a treat while there and tried hard not to feel GUILTY!




Personally, I think my boys have very beautiful smiles. What do dentist know anyway?