Reflections

Another year about to end a new one soon to be born, the cycle of time is starting over again as it does every year on January 1st. Time for a new year, time for new memories and experiences. Time for joy and knowing myself many tears. How do I know that there is good chance the future is holding these things? Because they are part of life, each emotion and experience happens because God created us to live life to the fullest. As I look back on my life in the past year I feel I am testimony to the sovereignty of God. Come with me now as I reflect on this year's memories.

February 28, the last day in the month of love, my last day as a high school student. Life has never really felt the same since. Suddenly there are no assignments to finish or tests to study for. And very suddenly something that I did almost every day for the past 12 years is over. Leaving me feeling like I'm at a ball dressed in jeans, Strange and wonderful. Strange it did not feel to God.

Four hours of sleep and two thousand miles later my feet step onto Mexican soil. My dream of a mission’s trip is reality. Six blissful days were spent working hard along side fellow Mexican believers. Numerous blog posts could be written just from the lessons I learned. Many memories of laughter and fun fill my brain. I still hear "How Great Thou Art" being sung in Spanish by joyful native believers. Home in the United States the experience felt so surreal like a pleasant dream. However it really happened much to my surprise but little to God.

I had no make up on, my hair was greasy and I was doing my very best to make my eyes look wide and awake (very contrary to what they felt like). My first job interview, and suddenly before I know what was happening the job was mine. Thousands of kennels of wheat floated past my eyes every day as I performed the test for their moisture content. Each night I wondered how I could survive working at the local grain elevator. Listening to the less than proper farmers possessing little Mennonite blood talking as if they only knew how to pernouce four letter words. Yet God was faithful giving me the strength and endurance each day. Of course I knew that because of the sweetest lady He gave me to work a long side. By the end of the summer I could tell stories and laugh about my first job.

Plates and food were left abruptly sitting on the table. Supper was still in progress but mom and dad were gone. As I came in from my bike ride I knew immediately that something was wrong with Grandma. Flashing lights and sirens soon broke the stillness of the countryside. Grandma was taken to the hospital because of a broken Femur. Three long weeks later Grandma came home but assistance was greatly needed. Nurses scurry in out of the house almost daily from then on. And life changed again. God so very kindly taking time to teach one of His children little life lessons in the form of servant hood. Great is the faithfulness of our Lord!

I believe I could write until the New Year rings in. Simply telling of all the times I learned to trust God. Strength that I did not have yet was given to me. Tales of sadness laced with joy. Lessons taught yet easily forgotten. I feel so joyful as I remember every hardship and how much closer it brought me to God. Life was strange this year even stranger it will be in the coming New Year. Excitement rises with in me as I think about it. Yes the Lord I know will have many things to teach and show me. Simple is my job, just to live life, making memories, experiencing joy and pain. Always remembering the one who gave His life so I could live mine.

Twas the Night Before Christmas

Christmas Eve for me is even more special than Christmas day. The night St. Nick is zooming around the earth on his sleigh we are already being given our gifts. Christmas eve is as Traditional as Fiddler on the Roof's "Tradition.

Morning and afternoon is pretty much a normal farm work day for the household. I stir up eggnog while listening to "A Christmas Carol". Tradition was strict when it came to supper, sub sandwiches is the meal enjoyed every year. My brothers prepared the meal while mom and I wrapped last minute presents. We would linger over the very simple yet delirious meal. One year the talk was of the family Christmas present. The boys had been informed of the gift and talked about till I almost cried. Finally when I was informed I was appalled to learn it would be clippers to cut the boys hair with. To this day I haven't even been allowed to touch the clippers:)

Following the meal dad shares a devotional and the Christmas story. A few times I even obliged my family with special music. A tradition long since given up:)

Mom never uses wrapping paper, bags fashioned out of Christmas fabric sewn by mother herself hold gifts nicely. There was always the family bag, filled with an assortment of gifts, where we would each take turns reaching in and pulling something out. Two of the more memorable gifts I remember was the beautiful rocker still cold from being hidden in the Garage. Heida my "last doll" mom told me, accompanied me everywhere for many Christmas to come. Dressed always in the latest fashions from mom's sewing machine.

The real fun came after the bottom of the tree was emptied. I brought out the eggnog topped with fresh whipped cream and dusted with nutmeg. Our traditional Chex Mix, cheese ball, and other goodies, made for quite a succulent feast! Our plates filled we would sit back and watch "It's a Wonderful Life". Laughing at all the punch lines as if we had never heard them.

Before I went to bed in my new pajamas my brothers and I would see the night out playing games. Listening to the Christmas songs of old.

Every Christmas Eve I remember going to bed so happy. I had spent the day with family to me that was the best Christmas present ever. Twas the night before Christmas that found our family laughing, talking, and enjoying one another.

Deck the Halls

Christmas, the word to so many people means memories. Family celebrations, special traditions, memorable gifts, so many precious thoughts. This week I thought I would share with you some of my Christmas memories. I shall start with one of our traditions, decorating my grandma’s house for Christmas.

My family would journey to grandma’s house for Thanksgiving. Literally we went over the hills through the woods to Grandma’s house. Upon arrival we walked through the door, my brother would promptly turn on the football game. I went to find grandma in kitchen preparing the meal. Various other relatives and friends would join us for the holiday. Later in the afternoon mom and dad went home. But not us children, no we got to stay at grandma’s house for two nights! Our job would be to help grandma trim the tree. We started that very night by putting up Grandma’s ceramic Christmas tree. Then
Grandma and I would venture out to see if any Christmas lights were up. Usually there were a few. Morning brought three eager young workers ready to do whatever needed done. After we enjoyed the rare treat of cold cereal smothered in sugar energy would stream through us to put to use in decorating. Christmas music piped from the stereo as we dug out the decorations from the basement. Before long we had decked the halls and even the porch. We would help grandma with various other odd jobs throughout the day. When evening came Grandma prepared our traditional supper, waffles with white sauce and sausage. A real treat since waffles usually were not on our menu at home.

Grandma and I again would drive around to look at lights after meal. This time we would be delighted to find more to gaze at. Upon returning to grandma’s house we spent the evening playing games while Christmas played in the background. Before bed ice cream was served a treat enjoyed quite frequently at grandmas!

As we exited the door grandma would slip us spending money for our pockets for our “hard” work. The trim stood ready and trimmed beckoning us to return for Christmas day. Celebrating Christmas with Grandma started at Thanksgiving and finished at Christmas. Now grandma’s house is gone, no room is there for the fancy decorations. However the memories of the annual decorating party will linger and remain in my heart forever.

Winter Wonderland on the Farm

Only the soft squish of my boots laying on the snow could be heard. Soft misty fog surrounded the fields, whimsically creating a glow over the land covered in snow. I have gone walking in the field when it's covered with green grass and new flowers of spring. My walks took me across the brown prairie land. Gorgeous sunsets simply left speechless and unable to walk. A new phenomenon was discovered now this morning. Right in our own backyard lay a winter wonderland. Magic it felt did the work of transforming the prairie. I have eaten snow, made snowmen, and snow angels. But that morning I could only enjoy the beauty. Like a jealous lover my eyes were only for the snow. Harshly the icy rain drove me inside but never would I forget the magic.

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Let it Snow

I couldn't have felt more pleased to see the blanket of snow that covers the countryside earlier today. Suddenly now it really feels like Christmas! I can just imagine myself standing wrapped in a fur cap singing carols with my arm being held by a gentleman in a top hat. Sigh... ahem I do love snow!

I would share with you some pictures but well I have a cold and I can't get myself to venture out. Our temperature gauge currently reads 20 degrees so it has warmed up a bit:) Perhaps I may have to make a snow angel or two though...

My brother's and I growing up enjoyed making snow ice cream. It's easy really, just take some snow and add milk and sugar. A little vanilla doesn't hurt either. Mix it together and eat fast!
One particular time, when our parents just happened to be gone:) We decided the old recipe needed a little jazzing up. Out came the Carmel syrup than the chocolate, I believe there was strawberry as well. Last of we topped it off with honey roasted nuts. Somehow I remember that the effect wasn't pleasant. I don't believe I've made snow ice cream since:)

I'm in love with the white fluffy stuff. I still feel the delight of my childhood upon seeing the flaks fall. My wonderful TX nieces and nephews experienced the same delight last week. Because as perhaps you know it never snows in Houston. Or at least not until last week.

Before I go I shall say this final thing. I dedicate this post to someone special that is always telling me to update my blog. YOU know who you are:)

The Magic of Christmas

Twinkling lights decorated the houses proudly displaying their Christmas spirit. Each house proclaimed Christmas in a different way. My family and I delighted in the Christmas lights giving our verbal approval. Ben the appointed chauffeur took us to the "ritch" part of town. Homes are old, large and beautiful, indeed they at least must have one maid. Elegance is given in many windows and rooms. Large oaks wrapped in white lights adorn the front yards which are as big as the homes themselves. Holly frames the windows and doorways. Red bows match the red lights, cheerily pushing the cold out. Peering through the windows we see people dressed in fine attire. Laughing and gaily enjoying a holiday party with friends. Perhaps being a mouse in a corner would be fun I think. That is if I got to eat more than just the cheese:)

We drive out of the neighborhood away from the winding curves spacious yards. Up the town we are taken. Past lighted store fronts displaying all their Christmas glory. Even the street lamps were not left out of the Christmas fun. Christmas music plays from the car speakers. Suddenly again I know why it is the most wonderful time of the year.

Arriving back at our simple farmhouse we see the simply white and red lighted cross in the window. Sitting beside my dainty Christmas tree I feel as though I left something out. I don't have to look far, sitting under the tree is my manger. Suddenly again I'm reminded why I celebrate Christmas. And I feel happy, because He came to die for me. Not go give me a house big enough for maid.

I'm Sorry I Forgot....

This week I've had a bit of writer's block. Nothing seems to be coming to mind to write. Really though that's half the truth. I have been blogging in my head plenty before I go to sleep but by morning are the thoughts still there? No:)

In the morning dad usually asks how I slept. My answer is commonly, "I don't remember". So how of course should I remember the scrumptious blog post in my head? Let's see I was saying... oh well I don't remember. I'm serious:)

Maybe I should just go to bed.

A Different Kind of Friend

Saturday I had the privilege of attending our first Christmas gathering. Really this was my grandma’s cousins, however through the years my mom’s cousins started coming. And since I go everywhere with mom I was there as well. I probably “hang out” around the “older” generation more than most young folks my age. While I pretend to complain about my lack of socialization, I secretly enjoy it.

Everyone warmly gave their greetings to me when I arrived. Compliments were passed out on my hairstyle “that made me look older”:). Some wondered if perhaps I was on a diet do to the fact I just picked at the main dishes. Truth was I was saving room for the chocolate. Yes, Nestle chocolate straight from Switzerland! Life doesn’t get any better. Oh those truffles are the best; I must say I ate my fair share. You must be proud of me that I resisted the urge to stash some away in my purse to take home:).

Then there were the door prizes, being the only person under 50 I got to draw the number. So I promptly drew my own:).

What can I say, I may have more friends over 60 than under 20 but it sure does have its perks:). Me thinks that I have a very special bonus that most teenagers don’t have. Dinning and laughing with people who will listen to my life then tell me about theirs. Then we will laugh together and talk about how good the Lord is. Seniors and chocolate truffles make a splendid combination I do dare say.

Pearl Harbor Thoughts

My brother is watching football this afternoon, no doubt countless men and women are doing the same. Sixty seven years ago on a Sunday afternoon just like today Americans were doing the same thing. Teddy Roosevelt interrupted the game announcing of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Life would never be the same for America.

My entrance into the world would be yet to come on that Sunday. So I don't remember where I was. I don't remember wondering if friends and family were alive. I don't remember the war that followed. Nor do I remember rationing food, or sitting in an basement during practicing for the bomb that very well could drop. World war II is not in my memory. 9-11 is, the war on terror is, post election America is, the fact that God is my refuge in strength is.

Presidents and grandparents before us faced their trials and fear. While ours maybe somewhat not as scary or as life threatening. Our God is the same, yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

May I never forget that.

It's Begining to look a lot like Christmas...Part 2

Mom and I delighted in trimming the tree this Christmas season. Every light and decoration was placed to perfection. We coordinated it red in gold this year.


This a vintage ceramic Christmas tree that belonged to my Grandma. Thanksgiving evening Grandma would bring it up from the basement and put it up. It was the first decoration to go up and the first one to go down. Surrounding the tree are some toys from my mom's cousin passed on of her childhood. Grandchildren are allowed to play but with caution:)

Christmas past of my childhood brings memories of playing the rocking horse collection. Often the horses suffered of broken limbs:) Now they are carefully placed out of reach of little hands.

Sitting on the kitchen bay window is our Christmas dishes. Plates are a thrift store find and the gold rimmed tea cups came from Germany. I believe they came from my grandma.

Annoucement

If I would send an email with the above title to my family the given response would be "your engaged"! No that isn't the case, thankfully:)

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It's Begining to look a lot like Christmas...Part 1

We decorated the house for Christmas this past Tuesday. This year it was extra fun because my brother Ben was home to help. Dad put up the tree and Ben offered help when it came for getting the lights working. Mom and I put up the other decorations. We ended our evening with sugar cookies and white chocolate punch served out of Christmas tea cups. Hot cocoa would have been more fitting but the thought didn't occur to my absent mind:)

This nativity scene is very antique, so we've been told. Years past Ben and I used to fight over who got to put it up. I was so pleased that he was here for the first time in four years to put it up. I didn't let out a peep...well not too loud of a one anyway:)

Here is the tree, notice we are going green literally. With a very green tree:) Actually we decided it needed more lights. I find the tree looks rather Grinch like at the moment:)

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY Wednesday, Dec 3rd, 2008...
Outside my window... The day is cold and gray, a fierce North wind is blowing. I love these days so cozy.
I am thinking...About life, please, please can I see what is around the corner. Christmas, what cookies shall bake
I am thankful for...My dear nieces who are visiting today and that my brother was here to help put up the tree.

From the kitchen...Turkey from the after Thanksgiving sale. White chili for supper
I am wearing... Long sleeve blue, green and yellow stripped shirt, jean skirt and bare feet with pink toe nail polish
I am creating...Christmas presents...sorry I won't tell what:)
I am going...To our church Christmas program practice. Most likely will be an rendition of theBest Christmas Pageant Ever.
I am reading...
I am hoping...Program practice will go well tonight.
I am hearing...Von Trapp Singer's sing Christmas carols.
Around the house... The tree is up, just a small after mess. My nieces are tattletaleing to me about one of their sisters:)
One of my favorite things...Christmas music.
A few plans for the rest of the week:Going shopping with my mom, watching a Christmas movie.