The Kiddos Update - Part 1

The 'king of the castle' as he says.

Time for a good update on the kids. It seems like they are growing up so fast. Don't get me wrong...that is partly really nice. But, at the same time...sadness. :) But (again), so fun too!! I'll update you on one at a time. Today is Grady's turn.

Grady and Hadley are seriously pretty much all grown up now. They'll probaby graduate from college and get married sometime next week. :)

Grady is 4 years and 10 months old now. He is as sweet as ever and is really, really maturing. Here are a few Grady happenings as of late:

*Eliane has a motorcycle and the kids aren't supposed to touch it. When we were still in the old house, the horn on her motorcycle honked. I went outside and asked who did it. Now, at this point most of the time the kids would say (in that lovely kid way) 'I don't know' or 'Eissa' (because poor Eissa couldn't speak up for herself and would most likely be considered innocent since she didn't know better...those days are dwindling though...she now knows exactly what she's doing most time). Well, that day Grady just immediately and with a soft, repentant voice said, "Me." So proud I was.

*Also when in the other house, he loved to catch butterflies...O.K., he loved to try to catch butterflies. It never quite worked out, but one day when he was about to set at this task, he was talking about catching a butterfly, "just one." Joel said something about how just one butterfly would be sad and lonely...that they would miss their family. So, Grady didn't say that he was going to get 2 butterflies so that his butterfly wouldn't be lonely. He said that he would get 3...a Mama, a Daddy, and a baby. He groups everything into families...cute.

*Every day after we get done eating lunch, Joel has a "Bible lesson" with the kids...just a little devotional. He is reading through "Devotions for the Children's Hour" (we have the old school hardcover version, copyright 1954...it was a whopping $2.50 brand new back then). We talk about Jesus with them alot. We talk about God too. But, we have apparently not vocalized "Holy Spirit" much to them (although the Holy Spirit is very much a part of our lives, I guess it just doesn't come up in our conversations...when praying, for example, I guess our kids haven't ever heard us say "Holy Spirit"...only Jesus/God). In one of the devotions it talks about the trinity and how there are 3 persons in one. Grady was obviously listening and wanted to re-trace their steps through the devotion. At the end, he said, "So there's God and there's Jesus." Then he wrinkled his nose and thought, then he asked, "who's the 3rd guy?" It was funny.

*He is constantly rubbing his face on me saying "you're so soft." It's really sweet.

*Sometimes I make a big fuss over them getting so big and I pretend like I'm crying and say, "Please...please don't get any bigger." :) This is usually Grady's reply..."Jesus wants me to grow up and be just like Daddy." He knows I'm just joking around, but he also usually nips my silliness in the bud on this issue. He knows God's design for us. It's not up for discussion.

*He loves to carry Cass. There were a couple of times that he just brought her to us. It was crazy, because he really is capable, but it was just a little unnerving...we aren't ready for that. He has since learned that he can't just do it...he can only do it when we tell him to. But, he loves to carry her...because he just loves her, but also probably because he feels so big and strong when he does.

*He continues to be the "Great Organizer." :) A month or so before we left the old house, I had taken a bunch of clothes out of storage bags for Cass for the coming months and had arranged them by age (6-9 months, 9-12 months, etc.). Within the age groupings I had arranged them according to type and use, as I always do(shirts, dresses, long-sleeve/short-sleeve, etc.). So, about a week or so after I had spent a good bit of time doing this, Grady "arranged" it for me again. Apparently they weren't color coordinated enough for him. He put all the pinks together (and thought that we should focus on those clothes since she's a girl). We had to laugh.

*Recently I told him to smile for a pic. He said, "A man doesn't do 'cheese.'"

*Yesterday I took all 4 kids to do the grocery shopping with me. I've never done that before alone. Turns out, it was actually a breeze (this time)...no potty issues, no meltdowns. It was great and they helped me a ton. When we got back from the store, I put Cass down for a nap and then the other 3 and me had to then lug all the bags up the stairs to our apartment. It was awesome...even Eissa did her part. At one point, Grady and Hadley had both just gotten a load of something to take up. I noticed that Hadley had 2 bags of pretty heavy things and Grady had one thing that was pretty light. I started to say something, but decided against it...thought they should do it on their own. I got a load and then headed back in the building. At that point, what I saw put a big proud smile on my face. Grady was coming back down the stairs and telling Hadley that those bags were too heavy for her...that they needed to switch. So, Grady gave her his light load and took the heavy load for her. So, so sweet. He takes such good care of his little sisters.

He is just so mature now...and really gets it about things. It's so great to be able to have a conversation about something with your little one and he fully understand (or mostly anyway). When he gets in trouble now, it really does grieve him that he made the wrong choice deliberately. It's amazing to see it all come together, and I know that I will only see more and more of this through the years...so fun to see them blossom.

All ready for church.
He just recently got a gift in the mail...thanks Aunt Marilyn (Madden Williams)...a Cars book complete with stickers. He loved it. They love stickers, although they don't last long. He decided he preferred to put them all over his body obviously.
He's such a help. I was feeding Cass when Joel sent Eissa out of the shower the other night. I asked Grady to put Eissa's diaper on for me. I was interested to see how he would do. Well, he set to it and even saw that Eissa was a little red and got the medicine and applied it. He was so matter-of-fact about it all and didn't ask for any help...like he'd been applying diapers for a couple of years already. :) Of course, I guess he has watched others do it constantly his whole life. ;) We did have to discreetly rearrange it on her little tush, but I was impressed with Grady's abilities. I will probably be utilizing this newfound talent of his some in the future.
Finishing the job.
He went to his room and came out dressed like Superman. Note the underwear over his pants. I never realized he had studied an image of Superman to that extent. :)
Flying.
The Superman stance, folding of the arms (I really don't know where he's seen this).
A day or two after we got here to the apartment, Grady asked if he could go outside and pick some flowers for me (they did that every day at least once a day at the old house). Of course, he couldn't (I don't think there are any flowers out there anyway). :) So, he resolved to get me some flowers. He drew some and cut them out and gave them to me. Too cute. Then I let him use the camera to take pictures (he loves to take pictures).
Complete with ladybug and lizard he told me.

10-27-08 We had just got Cass's jumper out (thanks Anna!!) and Grady was showing her how to do it. This little snippit is nothing compared to what it was before I reached for my camera...belly laughter like crazy from Cass.

10-28-08 Right before leaving the old house, we went swimming in the pool there at the seminary. Grady is pretty fearless, even if he does close his eyes the whole time. ;)

Apartment Life

It's been a long time since I actually talked about US on here, right? So, here goes a little update about where we are, k?

We said goodbye to our big wonderful house on the seminary campus at the end of October. We are so thankful for our time there...what a blessing it was!!

We moved across town into a very not big apartment. :) We are very close to Asas though, so that's a plus for sure. It was a crazy time packing up and getting things ready to go and then going and getting settled into this apartment, but thankfully we are now in a good routine here and things are a bit more peaceful around here. :)

Even though it is pretty small, it's a great place to live. The other apartments I've seen here are very cramped. As far as apartments go, this one is perfect for a family with 4 small children. It isn't as cramped. The living room/dining area is one great open space, so that's so nice. The rooms are small, but not too small. The bathrooms are also tiny...hardly room to close the door (so I don't). :)

The kitchen doesn't have any counter space. It also doesn't have any cabinets for the food (just enough space for the dishes...some of them). And there is nowhere to hang clothes here...nowhere outside, just a couple of racks here in the apt. It takes forever for the clothes to dry. We also don't have any closets for the kids. It's...interesting. :)

There's nowhere for the kids to go outside. We live on the 2nd floor, but even the apts. on the first floor have no yard area. All the apartments are in buildings and the doors are on the inside of the buildings...no doors leading directly outside. They don't have a park or anything near here either, but we do take walks with them, esp. Joel in the evenings when he gets home (it's hard for me to get out during the day with housework and Cass napping and such). We've resorted to the boob tube alot while living here. Given the limited play space/no outside option and also the need for quiet when naps are taking place (since we are in such close proximity to the napper), it's a good option here. Plus, we have cable here and Discovery Kids (dubbed in Portuguese...it's good for them to hear Portuguese though, so another good thing about the TV).

So, there are challenges to living here, but it's also really fun at the same time. It's really cozy, I always know exactly where the kids are at all times (ha ha ha...a friend of ours said, 'yeah, under your feet,' but not quite), it's easier in some ways (less space to keep, less stuff to deal with, etc.), it's great to have Joel so close...he has more time with us at lunchtime and is home sooner in the evenings, I have a great washing machine here (we are probably actually going to buy this one and sell ours), hmmm, what else?

To sum it up, it's small, it's challenging, but it's fun. So, we're enjoying our time here, although we're also very grateful it's only temporary. ;)

We will probably be moving to the new house (different house but on the same seminary campus) sometime around Dec. 12th. Such a great little house that we are going to. We left a pretty huge house to come to this tee-ninesy place. Maybe God planned it that way so when we go to the new house (which is a good bit smaller than the first house, but way bigger than this apartment) we will feel like we are just swimming in all that space. :)

Thanks for asking how it's all been. More updates to come (kids, school, etc.). But it literally took me all day long today to write just this little bit. Now I'm going to add a video and maybe some pics and call it a day. :)

Here's a little virtual tour...



Isn't this so cute? I looked down from my chair this morning and this was my view. Had to grab a shot of Eissa's cuteness.
Cass crawled (more of an army crawl, but not really...you'll see it soon) out of her pants. Too funny. The other kids got a real kick out of it.
Doing school (this was taken yesterday).
I got me some aipo!! :) Can you tell I'm excited about my celery? I haven't seen celery since we left the states. My portuguese teacher gave this to me yesterday...she had told me that she sees it sometimes...rarely, but she does see it. She just happened to see it again not long after we had talked about it and she got me a present. :)
This was taken today (these pics are not in any kind of order). Gigi has seen better days. This was after Eissa fed her a snack. Eissa: "Baby snack, Mama, baby snack."
The girls ready to head out...Eissa saying, 'there's Cass, Mama.'
Playing together.
There is a built-in desk here...you just unlatch it and lower it and voila. Grady thinks it's super cool.

Alright, now I'm off to make some chicken salad (mix for sandwiches) with my celery...woohoo!!

Post-Christian America

That's a pretty dramatic title, huh? I'm not into sensationalism, so just know that I'm not putting that as the title just to get attention.

But, I do believe that's where we are. Maybe that's a given...maybe others know that already. I mean, take a look at this article from a year and a half ago. And this, reported on 2 years ago.

I've been meaning to post about my feelings after the election to follow up with my last post. It just hasn't happened until now. I am not a gloom and doom type of person, so I can always find good things about something, thankfully. Here's just a little rundown of my thoughts:

First of all, I'm sad for John McCain. What a love he has for his country. It showed in his speeches and debates during the campaign and also here, in part of a speech made in 1988 (I had seen this email before). It shows in his history of service to our country. I watched his concession speech. It was so very gracious. Sadness showed on his face so strongly. I know that he would have served his country that he loves so much with true honor, as he's done for so long already.

But, the people spoke. Barack Obama is president-elect now as we all know. I watched clips of his press conference he did recently. I do like seeing a black man in that position, it's true. As far as the history that was made on that topic, that makes me very, very proud that the United States obviously isn't held by that bondage any longer. The color of your skin has nothing to do with what positions you can hold in the U.S. any longer and that's been proven now...I am very glad of that.

Unfortunately, I can't be completely rejoiceful for reasons stated before on this blog. I saw just today what someone I respect very much recently said and I have to say that I totally agree: "People often become concerned too late. Then it is impossible to turn the tide back. And like the tide, it happens slowly. It's like the proverbial frog in the water. When it realizes it's being cooked, it's too late. It happened to the people of Germany under Hitler. Most could not be convinced that anything too bad was happening at the beginning of Hitler's reign. Most believed later, but it was too late then." I saw those words just minutes after I saw this article. So very interesting. The conditions in that article sound pretty familiar, don't they?

Some might think, what are you so afraid of Michawn...why so fearful? Please understand that I am not shaking in my boots (um, flip-flops). I do not believe in living in fear. I don't live in fear. But, I do believe in fearing God. I found this very good definition of what I mean: A Biblical fear of God, for the believer, includes understanding how much God hates sin, and fearing His judgment on sin – even in the life of a believer. I also believe in having a sombering awareness of what is going on around us...on the superficial level of just the natural things, but also on a much deeper level of what things could mean in the spiritual.

No, I'm not a fearmonger. But, I do believe that we are living in a very, very interesting time. Now that the media, liberals, democrats have gotten their wish, we will see how things unfold.

Do I believe that we are under the rule of the next Hitler? No (although, he could turn out to be just that sort of person). Do I believe that we are in store for the next holocaust? Nope. Actually I believe we are in the middle of another holocaust already!! 3,700 human beings of a certain kind are already being murdered every single day in our country. 1.37 million a year. Let's get some perspective here...there were 5,860,000 Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust. We've been at abortion long enough to have WELL surpassed this number.

More perspective: Some of my friends here, when saying that I do not believe in murder and therefore I would not be voting for Obama, chuckled and asked "what about war...that's murder too." 1) There have been only around 100,000 lives lost (from what I can tell from the sources I've read) in the war, including Americans, Iraqis, soldiers from other countries, etc., and 2) Even the innocent victims of war (there are always some) have choices and are aware that they are in danger. Imagine this...a little life, floating around in her Mama's belly, getting nourishment, feeling secure, smiling and sucking her thumb (because we've all seen ultrasound images of this very thing). Then suddenly, without warning, her leg is ripped from her body, her skull is crushed...unimaginable pain...and then her life is no more.

No, it's very different than lives lost in war. And, I also think that sometimes we just hear the word abortion and think of it in terms of just a simple procedure...a legal action...a cultural right. I know that I, and many people, esp. my age, have probably grown a little numb to it when hearing the word 'abortion'...after all, it's been legal my whole life. We sometimes think of it as nothing more than going to have a wart removed. How wrong we are and how grieved God is over all these truly undeniable innocent lives! We will answer for this. It is not 'abortion'...it is MURDER!! And, this holocaust is sure to only get worse under this administration. I mean, he did promise to make one of his first acts the signing of the Freedom Of Choice Act (FOCA), which would invalidate all state laws regarding abortion and make abortion legal for all nine months of pregnancy. Campaign promises don't always come to fruition...prayerfully this won't. But, we definitely know where this man stands on this issue.

The entire world is elated at the election of this man. My portuguese teacher cried and cried...was overcome with emotion. Unfortunately, it may very well mean good things for the rest of the world...not for Americans I'm afraid...not for the people that we don't acknowledge as people as a nation, the unborn.

So, what do we do now? How does this change things as far as the way we see things? It doesn't. We do, hopefully, what we've always done. We pray. We seek God's face, grace, and will. We remain vigilant and very aware of all that is going on around us. We pray to see through God's eyes, with His eternal perspective. We love those around us, even if they do not believe as we do. We pray for those who persecute us (and the unborn). We become/continue to be a voice for those who can't speak for themselves. We honor our President and his high calling and pray for him continually. We pray, among other things, that first and foremost, God will really get ahold of his heart. We pray that he be broken before God...that the things that breaks God heart will start to break his also. No matter what, we must remember that God can do anything...always has been able to and always will be able to, no matter who is President of the little speck on the world called the United States.

We do live in very interesting times.

Feelings on Election Day

My feelings today were strange. The most prominent one was that of disappointment. Not disappointment in the result because the results still aren't in as I type this. I haven't even seen any preliminary results.

But, do you know how very cool I think it would've been to have helped vote the first black American president into office? I am hoping that this particular black American won't win (Obama) and that I will still get that chance. But, oh that Barack were really good.

He seems to be just that. He looks to be so very kind and gentle, so calm and endearing, so patient...a man just oozing integrity. Too bad we can't ever go by looks alone. (By the way, this is obviously not at all mentioned to try to convince you how to vote...too late for that. But, this is very interesting, so just thought I'd pass this along.)

Seriously, I wish he were what he seems to be. I really do. But, it isn't so. Not this time. It grieves me. I love the idea of him and what he seems to represent (as far as goodness). Sad that his record and true beliefs prove differently.

I can't wait for a truly good black American to come along and sweep us off our feet...one who is truly who he seems to be, one who really walks with God and lives according to His principles. That will be a glorious day.

Bias

You know, it's been a few years since I've watched TV consistently. Even when we still lived in the states, we rarely had TV capabilities. When we did, we watched things like Survivor, The Apprentice, and ER (that was around 2005...good times...I loved Thursdays).

Right after McCain chose Palin, I started watching clips from various sites. Maybe it's only because it's been so long since I've actually been exposed to much news, but I am literally APPALLED at what we've termed our mainstream media. Is this for real?!?! Seriously...what in the world?

Here is a very interesting article I read a few days ago about just that...and it's even on the ABC news site.

This next clip is from one of the first clips on the msnbc.com site that I saw a month or 2 ago. I was just sitting here with my jaw dropped listening to them. I know that Rachel Maddow is considered a news 'commentator' and therefore given more license to have biases and really give her opinions. It's just unfortunate that many people probably choose that show and others like them to be their primary source of news. The disrespect shown in this clip was seriously astounding to me. Unfortunately, the other shows (with the real 'journalists' and not just the 'commentators') are not much better. Even Tom Brokaw, who I really like and respect, has followed suit, making clear his opinions, even if only in the subtle disguise of condescendence, in some of the interviews I've seen him in. Especially in this next clip, it becomes not just a question of whether or not a newsperson can be a credible, unbiased source of information, but also a question of whether or not there are any respectful people still left on TV? So what if you don't agree...let's be nice.



Didn't their mothers teach them that if-you-can't-say-something-nice-don't-say-anything-at-all thing?

Here is another GREAT find about just this very thing. Words are SO VERY POWERFUL.

Then, here's how Newt feels about it. He doesn't beat around the bush.



Finally, something to lighten your mood a bit maybe. This CRACKED ME UP!! Oh how I loved to see the surprise here. With all the butt-kissing they're so used to with the press, I'm sure he was really waylaid by this. Crazy to see his reaction...and for him to see how it must feel to be Sarah Palin EVERY TIME she talks to the MSM.



On a personal note, today is the day we are moving. Keep us in your prayers.

And don't forget to vote...for MCCAIN/PALIN!! ;)

Just a Few More Days of My Political Rantings...Aren't You Glad? :)

That has to be the longest blog title I've ever used. :) But, go here, here, and here for some really good thoughts on this hea (don't know quite how to spell it, but that's 'this here' in Southern...said very nasally) election.

P.S. Our kids are still just as beautiful and fun as ever. Stay tuned for more pictures and stories post-election. ;)

WHAT Is WRONG With Me?!?

Seriously, I'm not quite sure myself. :) I've never been into a campaign or politics in general as much as I am into this one...not even close. But, I truly think it's different this time...on many levels. One point is that there is just an extreme difference in the 2 candidates I think. EXTREME.

I will definitely be voting for McCain if you haven't already gathered that (well, actually already have...absentee voting). Obama...seriously he frightens me. The extreme views he has, the associations he's had, etc. It all just equals up to scary. (Update: Felt the need to add a clarification. I'm sure some might be tempted to leave a comment addressing this. What I'm talking about is not a 'scary' as in I've forgotten that God is merciful and completely in control and bigger than anyone or anything there is and ever will be. I'm not 'walking in fear' ok? That said, the things that could happen under Obama's leadership...scary.)

Check out this site. It's a GREAT sum-up of ALL the issues and where Obama stands (complete with many video clips of Obama stating these things himself)...and why his name should be avoided on your ballot. Seriously, I've never, ever even considered trying to persuade someone to vote for a particular person...never. But, this time it's more serious.

And here's the follow-up article to the last article link I posted on here. Really, really thoughtful and insightful. Please read it if you are at all undecided, or thinking of voting for a 3rd party candidate.

PLEASE Read This

Oh man, so much to say about this upcoming election. SO MUCH. I want to just spill my guts on here about it, but I just don't have the time to do it right now. But, I do want to say that I feel like this is SUCH an important election. I really do. Never before have I felt that way...as I've said, so not super political here. There are many things that I don't even understand about how our political system works. But, I do understand life and the importance of it.

There are/were so many things that I have been wanting to point you to on this blog...other blogger' posts, videos online that I've watched, interviews I've seen, etc. A-mazing all the information out there. Incredible to watch it all (from all different perspectives and slants). But, I saw this tonight and wanted to share it with you. I probably won't get a chance to share all the other things that I wrote in my head concerning this issue. But, this will do...it is long, but PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE read it in its entirety.

This is SO VERY IMPORTANT. Please go vote on Nov. 4th...and please vote for life.

A Place To Live

We found one.

O.K., a recap for everyone who can't keep up with us. :)

We moved into this house on a seminary campus July 2007. After moving so much, we were so grateful to know that we'd be here for a full year, until July 2008. Well, then the owners of this house decided that they were going to stay for a little longer in the states (they are missionaries on furlough), so we then had until November 2008 to stay here, although we thought we might be leaving in July, therefore we thought we might not even need it. Well, turns out that then (back in June) we were asked by our mission to stay here in this city for an additional year (until July 2009). Hmmm...ooopsies, we only had this house until November. Now what would we do?

So...meanwhile, another couple (our friends who live 2 doors down) here at the seminary (they both teach here) were contemplating a move. They were accepted at new jobs in another city and state, found out for sure in August, and recommended to the college (and their mission who actually owns their house) that they let us live there. Perfect. It worked out and everyone agreed that would be lovely, us included (love their house). The only glitch? They will be in their house until mid-December. We have to leave this one by the 1st of November. Yes...the math doesn't work out, does it? Looks like we are nomads once again...what to do for a weird 6-week time period?

Well, there was a little apartment here on campus that was a possibility, but when we looked at it...well, let's just say it was a no go for multiple reasons. We aren't super picky and we can make anything work, esp. for a temporary amount of time, but we are glad that something else opened up. What opened up you ask? Let me tell you.

There is a couple (Leandro and Gabi) that is associated with Asas (actually, there story is that they came to Asas, trained for years, and then just never ever were able to raise the support needed to go to the field...so, they were forced to take a job in the work world, that is, they had to leave Asas; this is a big problem here in Brasil...more on that another time maybe). They have been living here in Anapolis for a little while, but needed to move to another state. They wanted to go ahead and go, but were locked in a contract and also didn't really want to move most of their belongings (the big stuff) until things were completely squared away where they are going. Hmmm...could this be the perfect setup for everyone, Joel thought.

Turns out, it was. The people that own this house that we are in now are so generously letting us use some space in their house to keep our stuff in (boxes, couches, beds, pots and pans, etc.) and we are going to move into Leandro and Gabi's apartment and use their stuff. We help them and they help us and all is made better in this weird set of circumstances.

We have guests arriving this Tuesday. They will leave the following Thursday and we will have a week left here in this house. Our two guests are a couple of guys that we met in Phoenix...we became fast friends and we are so very excited to see them again. They contacted us and just wanted to come down and encourage us, help and serve in any way they can. We're so grateful for them. One of the things they will be able to help us with specifically will be moving all of our big things into the room where we will be storing it. So, by the time they leave, we'll probably be basically camping out here in this house. Should be an interesting couple of weeks.

I'll be sporadic in blogging, that's for sure, if I blog at all. So, if you're wondering where I am, that's it...packing, moving, unpacking, settling in, etc. Keep us in your prayers during this whole transition process and also as we host our friends (so excited) and they serve/minister here. We have some really great things planned for them so far. Should be fun.

Be praying for me especially. Most of the time all of this is fine, although as I've said before, the grace is running out. But, I've been packing for the last several hours now. I just ran across the bag that has our kids' baby books in it...their basically untouched baby books. I realized that we've never even gotten Cass a baby book. And, another realization that came to me and made me very sad is that since we didn't have a baby book and since we don't even have a birth certificate or anything else that needed them, we never got footprints/handprints of her. Sure, we can get them now (now that she's 6 months old!), but it just makes me sad that we didn't get them of her as a newborn. Yes, it's time to settle down a bit...get somewhere, be done with all this nomad living for a while, slow down a bit. I pray it comes soon.

Have a great few weeks if you don't hear from me!!

Eissa Has 2

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EISSA ROSE!!

In Portuguese they don't say "how old are you" they say "how many years do you have" (so there's the explanation for the title). Yes, Eissa is now 2 years old as of 9:29 this morning, central standard time (you can read her birth story here and here if you are interested). Oh, she's a joy and keeps us laughing all the time. I've said before that she is definitely the comedian of the family and that still holds true. She's funny, but also very, very caring. She watches out for her big brother and sister...if she gets to do something (have a piece of gum, for instance, or when it's time to go outside to play), she always says, "Grady? Hadley?" It's sweet. But, she's also fine and dandy being all by herself. Although she very much loves her big brother and sister, she's not a tag-along sister in other words (most of the time she's not, that is)...she's very much her own person. It's fun to watch. Oh and the way she is with Cass...super, super sweet and cute. She will go up to her and say "Hey girl" in a sing-song way and just play with her and rub her little face. She is very, very caring with Cass. It's so sweet.

She's talking bunches and really putting things together...reasoning things out and such. She is obsessed with her flip-flops...yes, the mismatched ones. When she wakes up, the first thing she says when we go in is "bip-bops?" Her laugh is SO great...a really deep belly laugh. Love it.

Love, love, love our little 2 year old!! So thankful to have you with us, Eissa...healthy and happy and loving life!

This was the first picture taken of Eissa this morning. I told her to smile. This was the result. I had to tame the VERY curly hair she has here for the pictures at the beginning of this post. Her hair...wow...it has a personality of its own. :) Fun, fun girl.

Header Photo

I just got a request from Aimee in the comments of the last post. It is super quick and super easy (most requests aren't...don't get me wrong, not that I don't love requests, but they are just usually not this simple), therefore I thought I'd just go ahead and do it really quickly.

By the way Aimee...thanks lots. And, "Really?" is what I'd say to your comment. I personally always ooh and ahh over your headers. :) Thanks again.

Friday Night Fun

These clips were taken in September. I remember Jared (my brother) and me wrestling around like this, getting so tickled and laughing non-stop in the afternoons at Granny's, after our programs of course...either Tom and Jerry and Scooby Doo, everyone (Jared, Jeffery, Ariel) else's pick, or Little House on the Prairie (sometimes the Waltons) which was my pick (we alternated turns; whoever's turn it was would get to rub it in on the bus on the way to Granny's)...then Happy Days reruns that came on at 5:00. We'd start rolling around on the living room floor during the commercials of Happy Days (Granny was always cooking in the kitchen) and then after Happy Days was over, we'd just wrestle and giggle without interruption...that is until Granddaddy walked in. At that point, silence was expected and we knew it. One must not interrupt the nightly news. :)

Ahh, memories. :)

And now...our kids making some memories of their own...

Cass is Now 6 MONTHS OLD!!

Can you believe it? :) As of last Thursday, Sept. 25th, our littlest (yes, I know that's not a word) girl was half a year old.

Sunday we got some shots. One of the times we do pics is at 6 months of age. Darnit if they don't have a local Picture People (although that would be so great) here, so this just has to do. But, I want some help from y'all, O.K.? I want to know which one you think is her best shot (you might want to click on them to get the full effect of each)...which should be her official 6 month picture. These are just as is...obviously we could fix/alter some things (zoom, crop, put borders around, photoshop things out if need be - i.e. slobber on chin, although I don't even know if that's possible)...you get my drift. So, you might include those types of suggestions if you want.

Anyway, happy 1/2 a year to the sweetest 6 month old I know. LOVE YOU, CASS!!

Now, look them over and cast your vote!

A Black Heart Turned White

Sara (age 2) is the little girl who now lives in the house we will be moving into mid-December. She and her parents went on a little trip and were gone for the past couple of weeks. They got back late Sunday night. Monday morning, they knocked on our door and her mom said that Sara had missed us so much and wanted to come play. Fun...and so sweet. We had a good time with her.

At one point though, Hadley needed some adjustments (of course, I'm not talking about chiropractic work here). :) We went to her room and I was explaining to her that her actions were not right. She was basically being a bully to the others and I had to give her a spanking. We talked about how she was being and what she should do instead. I always try to paint a clear picture of what they are doing that is wrong. So, this time I told her she was acting like the soldiers who killed Jesus and it made Jesus very sad (I didn't just pick that story out of the blue; they are seriously mesmerized by the story of the cross; when they play the whole 'good guy vs. bad guy' game, the bad guys are always 'the soldiers').

It didn't do any good. We got done with the spanking and I was asking her questions about what she should do in the future. She said, "I don't want to...I want to be mean."

At all times during times like this, I am begging God to tell me what to do. :) Seriously, you just gotta have help, you know?

She said that and I was like, "God?" :)

I immediately knew what to say (good job, God).

I said, "Hadley, your heart is black."

Now, let me back up here. I have NO idea where the kids heard this, but that is THEIR explanation for the condition of a heart (or whatever else) when something is BAD. I'm not sure if Joel explained 'sin' to them in this way at some point. Even if that's the case, it's funny...must've made a real impact because we never say this. They do though...and whatever they are talking about is always BAD when they do.

So, I said that and it literally took her breath away. She gasped and looked at me instantaneously with these worried eyes...and immediately she started crying. She asked me, as she 'came up for air' during her sobbing, "Can Jesus make my heart all clean?" Ahh, relief...I knew she'd gotten it. It seriously scared her when I told her that...and I am so glad that she takes that so seriously that it did scare her. I told her that we could pray for Him to make it clean. She immediately started nodding her head that that's what we should do. I prayed and Jesus forgave her. She then asked, "Jesus made my heart all clean?" I said that He had, that it was all white...her face beamed immediately and she threw her arms around my neck.

Man, the change in her little spirit (and her actions). I am always amazed at what some time in discipline can do, but today was a great scene. And, such encouragement...they really are getting it, bit by bit. The eternal things that we are trying to instill in them...that take what seems like eternity to teach them (over and over and over and over again, right?)...it is so worth it...and it really is working. Victory. So encouraged today. So proud of you, Hadley. And thanks, Jesus...it is YOU at work in her.

Brazil in the News - Part 2

(the pre-written 2nd half of yesterday's post):

It totally excites me that this was a part of an ABC news report. It puts this all on the map, on the radar of others there in the states...even if only for a few minutes on a Wednesday night.

I also found it interesting that there were no Americans interviewed (except the pilot). Who were these missionaries...Brazilians themselves. I think that's awesome...that the Brazilians are reaching their own people.

And I do completely understand the skepticism and almost-paranoia of some in the world (of course the non-Christians, but also even Christians sometimes) who question the motives and actions of some missionaries. As with EACH AND EVERY position/job/organization/religion, etc., there has been 'corruption.' There have been (and continue to be in some instances) 'white man' (which translates really into anyone not indigenous) who arrive on the scene, literally with the attitude of a Superman...saving people from their own 'backwards ways,' pushing the white man's ways on the people who, if not violent and agressive/assertive and who, if they don't just outright kill the Supermen, do sometimes become dependent. If you haven't seen the movie Hawaii (with Julie Andrews), I recommend. It is very interesting and addresses this very thing in a way (in more of an entertainment forum obviously).

I think that is super rare these days. Maybe I'm a little naive and optimistic, but I just don't think that's the way missionaries see their jobs anymore and the people of this generation in particular just flat out detest that attitude. I may be wrong, but that's kind of what I see (in us and our peers, our age and younger especially).

The question of culture...this is two-fold I think:

1. There are certain things in a culture that are pretty dadgum insignificant...things like being late habitually; brushing teeth several times a day; when receiving a gift, doing so with both hands so as not to offend (with a one-handed reception); piercing a baby girl's ears; burping after a meal, etc. Who really cares about these things? Does it get on some people's last nerve? Yes. But, is it wrong? As much as you think your way is better (or even the only way)...no, these aren't wrong. Sorry to bust your bubble. (I personally have no problem with nudity either if that's part of your culture...although, I've never lived within a tribe where nudity was present...maybe, in reality, it is a problem)

2. But there are certain things that are just wrong, no matter who you are, no matter what your religion. Well, I guess that isn't totally and completely true, but you know, the extremists muslim groups who consider it an honor for one to become a suicide bomber? Nobody thinks that's cool. Nobody is fighting for their right to continue this practice. I mean, it's their beliefs, it's part of their culture/religion, is it not?!?!?!?!? Why do people try to stop innocent blood being shed by these suicide bombers instead of protecting the bomber's rights? BECAUSE IT'S WRONG!!!!

I guess I'm not quite sure why this (the situation in Brazil) is viewed differently. The report says that the government admits that infanticide does happen, but that the missionaries are "distorting an ancient and diminishing pratice that happens only among tribes so isolated from the modern world that severely deformed children are believed to be unable to survive." The lady from Survival International (more on SI here...interesting what the director said...I'm sure he's probably talking about us missionaries) stated (along with stating that she could not defend infanticide) that for people who have no medical care or any means or understanding of the condition which would enable them to take care of anyone that is born with a debilitating medical condition, that is the kind thing to do. Understood. BUT, even if you do agree with 'shooting a suffering horse' (or in this case, a human), that's really never been the reasoning given (that I've heard of...even in this news reel) for their actions. What is the reasoning...bad/evil spirits, a curse, possible punishment of the parents, or some other tradition/custom. Being a twin or born of a single mother is not a medical condition someone needs relief from. And the report that it is 'diminishing'...is that supposed to make it better? Oh, O.K...since it doesn't happen as much as it used to happen...that's O.K. then. Um, no...even if it happened only once, ever...not right, not O.K.

What needs to happen? Obviously, the goal of missionaries is to introduce others to Jesus so that they can have true abundant life here on earth...and have a home in heaven when their abundant life here on earth is done. 'Abundant life' does not mean a westernized life. :) But, the only way to truly have an abundant life here on earth is to incorporate God's principles into your way of life (your culture, if you will). Now, at the risk of sounding pious and uppity here, let me just say that those last couple of sentences is not my opinion. That's just the way it is. Jesus said that He is the only Way, the only Truth, and the only Life. I like to include people. I don't like for people to be left out. So, truly...I honestly hate having to say that. I am not narrow-minded, but I have found the truth and that is just the way it is...Jesus is the only way. (Even most successful non-Christians are only successful because they have unknowingly incorporated God's principles into their dealings...those principles just work, period)

So, of course missionaries are going to share Jesus...He is the cornerstone of their very beings. He is the cure for 'what ails you.' He is the only Way. Some are offended by the fact that Jesus is shared. But, it's not the Indians who are offended by this...it's others looking in. The Indians are grateful for missionaries. Why? Because we offer other things to them...medical care, dental care, chances to learn so much more that will HELP them in THEIR WAY of living their lives the way they already live. Guess what? The Indians are free to take it or leave it when presented with Jesus. Nobody is pushing this on them, obviously. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink. Of course, even that is a bad analogy because it's not like we (Christians, missionaries) have put harnesses on people or anything. But, you get my point.

Do we bribe them with our services? No. We provide them. That's it. We don't say, "If you come and listen to us and receive Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, then we will fix your teeth." :) Come on. Do we share Jesus with them? Yes. But, we do that just in loving them, talking with them, showing the Jesus film (attendance not mandatory of course), etc.

People are people are people. No matter who you are, what economic background or status you have, what language you speak, whether you work on Wall Street or live in a hut in the Amazon...doesn't matter. People can sense genuine-ness. If you lack it, that's when you lose your 'audience' no matter what you are talking about. When missionaries are genuine...when they meet people's physical and emotional needs, when they love like Jesus loved, when they just generally emulate Him...that's when people listen. Not because we push our stuff on them. Besides, it's not us and our agenda anyway...it's God's power that ultimately takes effect. His Word does not return void. Wow...enough about missionaries.

What else needs to happen? Of course, I'm not the one with the answers, but I guess I'm just wondering why in the world this is even an issue, really. Babies/children are dying...not just dying, but being killed!! Those of you in the US, just think of it in terms of Native Americans (because they are the only 'indian' group we have to relate to). If they had had the practice of killing babies for certain things, would we still be defending their right to do that today? We wouldn't. (then again, not sure what the difference in that and the horrible shedding of blood in abortion and partial birth abortion and just laying babies aside to die who failed to die during an abortion...ohhhhhhh, the blood that is on our hands!)

I guess I'm just wondering why not protect these lives? Sure, protect the people of the tribe, let them live their lives the way they want...but, protect innocent lives from death for heaven's sake. Anyone who did the same thing in Anapolis (our city) that the people in the tribes do to their young who 'don't make the cut'...they'd be facing consequences. Somehow it's against the law for us living outside the tribe. I say educate them regarding LIFE...of course, as a Christian, my idea of that is through Jesus. But, even in the natural, educate them about disorders, twins, etc. Give them options. ASK THEM for heaven's sake. Did the government ever think about that? Do they enjoy killing their babies? No, they don't (read some of those testimonies on that website referenced in the last post). Would they appreciate other options? Probably so. Then, of course, after the education (which would probably do the trick), if they continue in these practices, hold them to the laws, esp. concerning murder. Why is that not an option in the eyes of the government, to provide that service and then other than that, leave them and their culture alone.

Seriously, why is that not an option? Just because something is their custom, their culture, doesn't mean that it is the best for the people. How many times, in the American culture, have we learned something new that has helped us tremendously? Apparently the government sees this kind of growth detrimental to the Indian tribes? Would they themselves (the Indians, that is) see some of these same things (that the government is 'protecting' them from) as enormously helpful (even in the natural)? Is the government helping them or just stifling them? Hmmm...maybe we should be investigating the motives of the government instead of the missionaries. Now that I think of it, isn't it apalling that we ARE investigating missionaries (who GIVE life) instead of the government (who is trying to protect the right to kill)? Wow.

Alright, I honestly planned to provide the link and be done. But when I got to typing, wow...apparently I had a lot on my mind about this situation. There is much more that could be said, but please just pray for this situation...and for the eyes of the government officials to be opened. Pray for the missionaries involved firsthand in all of this. Pray for the babies that will be born in the future (today, tomorrow, next week) who will be killed simply because their 'condition' is misunderstood...and their government refuses to protect them. Pray for God's purposes to rule and reign here in Brazil.

P.S. I loved how the missionary that had lived within the tribe on and off for 12 years responded when asked if she shared Jesus with them. What a feisty little lady there, huh? That's great perspective she has...and she knows her mission, no matter what people say. May we all have that boldness and tenacity.

Brazil in the News - Part 1

http://www.abcnews.go.com/Nightline/story?id=5861778&page=1

Aimee let me know that there was a fascinating piece on ABC News last night (thanks so much Aimee). I had to google and there you go...the link above. It is SO great in that it really gives you a glimpse of what is going on here. I really wish I could just embed the video here, but I can't, so just click on the link above to get to it.

Go see it and then come back for my thoughts.

So, my thoughts?...

{Update since I first wrote this post: I just realized that the couple they interviewed in Brasilia, Edson & Márcia Suzuki, (Brasilia is about 2 1/2 hours from here) actually have strong ties with many of our friends in the mission (Asas). They have been here several times to speak at the Monday morning devotions held at the hangar. Check out their website, English version, here. Wow...that's about all I have to say. I URGE you to read the stories of these children, the survivors.}

{Another update: There is so much information here already and I truly want you to check it all out. Therefore, I am going to be posting my thoughts, that are already written out, on another day. It's better that way anyway. I want to know your thoughts, uninfluenced by mine, here in the comments section.}

So, please...leave me your thoughts. This is a huge issue and I'd love to know what you think.

Pancakes, Giggles, and an Interview

But first, look at this video that CBS broadcasted of the dire situation all across Haiti. Remember the Hands and Feet Project...also in Haiti, plummeted by Gustav? Well, then Hanna and Ike hit after that. Craziness. Check out Brock's blog to see the latest. Please do what you can, if you can.


Watch CBS Videos Online

We have so much to be thankful for, esp. in light of that. Now for some home videos that show you just what we have to be thankful for...

Night before last, Grady had the request of pancakes for supper. Sounded good to us, so we all worked at it. Mama made the batter and then Hadley, Eissa, and Mama washed dishes while Grady and Daddy (mostly Grady...so grown up) made the pancakes. Cass just sat there watching and being cute.


Giggles all around yesterday at lunch.


And this is Eissa yesterday afternoon. The way she says some things is just so very cute. I had to capture some of it the best I could. She's such a cute little mess.


Oh, and yes...eissa's flip-flops are mismatched. They are hand-me-down loners from Hadley and do just fine here around the house. We are getting some new flip-flops (all of us) at the end of the month. Just wanted to acknowledge that...I'm sure some of you will notice.

Also, the video is pretty bad quality and you can't hear her very well. But, flip-flop, for instance, is 'bip-bop'...cute huh? And her 'water' and 'I love you' sound very much the same. Sometimes we think she is being so sweet and loving when she is really just asking for something to drink...it's funny. :)

I'll be packing again non-stop this weekend while Joel is here to be with the kids...he will also be trying to fit in other things to get ready for the move. We hope to be finalizing where we are going to stay from the first of November (when the family that owns this house returns) until mid-December (when we will be able to take over the house we are moving into for the next year). Please keep us in your prayers concerning that. Thanks. Have a great weekend!!

It Was Time

This weekend we did a couple of things, just because it was TIME.

First of all, remember this post about my hair? Yeah, well it was time to plunge into this. Yep, got it chopped. I was actually going more for this cut, but ended up with a much shorter version. The one thing Joel said was that he doesn't like it when the hair is right there curving into the chin. Now, he wouldn't balk at it if that's what I wanted, but I happened to not really want it quite that short. Well, we got it anyway. :) I'm totally fine with it though. Actually am kind of glad that it ended up this short...remember how I don't like the feel of it when it's touching my neck. It's fun and feels really good. Now, I got it done on Saturday, so I haven't even washed it yet (that will come tonight), so we'll see how it looks when I don't blowdry it and I don't have someone else to style it. :) But, still...I like it and am extremely glad to have it done.

The video below (after a few pics) is of the guy (Luciano) cutting my braid. I will be donating to Locks of Love. Grady, for the 24 hours leading up to this, was saying how he DID NOT want me to get my hair cut. Poor guy. He kept running his hands through my hair and talking about how pretty it was. :) But, he was good to go by the time we got to the salon. No biggie. I think he appreciated being included in the process though. By the way...I think that's why I ended up with a shorter cut than originally discussed. I think Luciano put the ponytail a little too high. But, I could care less...really. And just more hair for the Locks of Love people...he ended up cutting 12 inches off. Love it.

By the way, I am actually rarely on here in pictures. But, today...well, you'll see. :)

The long stuff.
The kids were kind of taking turns with the camera.
Me and Hadley had to make braids one last time. Then we just had some fun as you will see in the next few pics.









Like I said, everyone was taking turns with the camera. This was Eissa's turn. While someone else was taking the pictures, she had managed to get in the cabinet and unwrap some soap...then handed them to Hadley saying "here you go" when it was her turn with the camera.
Then Grady took the braids out and played with it some more. Seriously, I think he had a bit of a hard time with it. I did even contemplate not getting it done...I didn't want to traumatize him. :) But, in the end we talked it out and he was good to go.

A view of the length in the back.
Getting the braid all ready to cut.



What it looked like after the chop.


Cass, of course making friends.

Look at Grady in this picture.
Still keeping an eye on things. :)
The ladies there doing nails wanted to paint Hadley's nails while she waited for me...of course, she LOVED that.

And the finished product.
I told Joel, I look like a Q-tip in this picture. :) Ha ha ha.
You know how after a big haircut you go home and look in the mirror several times...putting your head this way and that...investigating what you got done? That's what this was...only I did it with the camera.



Then I had some help.
And today...I'm sure this will be the reality of everyday.
Back...somehow...always back. :)

The other thing that we did this weekend was FOOD. We gave Cass cereal for the first time. She is about 5 1/2 months now and it was time. She's been really eyeing our grub lately. I could also tell she just wasn't quite satisfied with "my milks" (as Hadley says) alone anymore. So...we plunged into that too.


Playing with big brother.
Me making the rice cereal. Thank goodness I have a Vita-Mix I can grind it with. They don't have rice cereal here...they have "cereal" but it is really just sugar in a can. So, I'll be making my own. We always make all our baby food anyway (fruits and veggies anyway)...now we'll just make the cereal too.




Grady happy with his food too. :)




Also last night. Every time the girls put on their clothes (esp. dresses), they have to go show Daddy. They twirl, of course.



And today...just because I haven't shown you yet. Cass got her first tooth on Fri., the 5th. Well, her second one (the front left bottom tooth) came in on the 10th.



JUST LOOK AT THAT CUTENESS!!!!

You can even see the teeth in this one.