Thinking Good Thoughts

Here is Ava and her mommy, both beautiful. Look at those gorgeous eyes. I haven't seen them for way too long, but I'm glad to at least see these faces. I am thankful for selfies.

I love these two, but God loves them even more than I do. That is hard for me to imagine.
The Bible says, “God has loved you with an everlasting love; He has drawn you with loving-kindness” (Jeremiah 31:3).

I have to admit that I've been very disappointed lately with the way our country is going. I believe  that we have had a lot of good people running for public office. However, some are not good. Some are actually evil, very evil. I've been able to think about it and talk about without a lot of angst.  But today as I read, I became very depressed and ended up crying out to our God to save us from the evil that surrounds us...to guide our elections...to protect them from fraud, etc.
My cries were so loud and worrisome that our little dog Maggie came running to comfort me.

Now that was my comfort. She, Maggie was here to help me get it together. She is a good dog. 

Thank you Father for all that is good in the world. Help me  to concentrate on that and hand over the rest to you.

I have used this scripture here before, but this is a good time to repeat it: 2 Chronicles 7:14 

if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

For those of you who might be interested, you can look up anything you would like to know about the Bible here:

Year of the Monkey

Although Aussie has been taking Chinese since he was four, he is not all that impressed with the
year of the monkey. But I had fun doing this layout to commemorate  this time.

Hostess Extraordinaire

We are blessed to have such gracious friends. Phyllis asked us to celebrate Easter with them on Sunday. We were very happy to do that. Not only are Phyllis and Ron extremely good company, but SHE CAN COOK! The dinner was exceptional. I had never eaten rack of lamb. It was quite a treat. Everything on the table was yummy. Of course Ron and I ate more than we should have, but who could have helped it?  Then, there was more. She had created this beautiful rabbit cake with fresh coconut 'icing'. WOW.  

I had forgotten to mention her son, Evan and her grandson, Austin were there for dinner as well. Austin is a real cutey and he was dressed in an Easter colored plaid shirt, tie and a dress jacket. And he 'helped' us with the dishes.

Ron and Ron (as we always say...Two Rons don't make a right.) never left the table. They were so deep in conversation that I doubt they even knew we had gone to the kitchen. 

After things were cleaned up, Phyllis, who had worked for HOURS had to sit down and elevate her feet. That gave us a chance to see Doc Martin. 

I had watched Doc the first two years it was on, but had left when I was shocked by one of the episodes. It didn't have anything to do with the doctor. Anyway, I loved  this show and will be watching the rest of it this year. 

Thanks, Phyllis for the great dinner and for getting me back with the doc.

Snow in Nashville

It is not often that Nashville would see this much snow. As a matter of fact, the four years I was in college there, we didn't see that much all together...not even near.

There seems to be more these days, but it still isn't much. Now Nashville has pushed way passed this type of weather, but our son's family is still dealing with snow in Colorado, where show comes often and has a long season. They had over a foot just this week.

Meanwhile, here in Ohio we went from 72 degrees yesterday down to 30 now.

The good thing to know is, man is not in control, God is. It is His world and His system and we don't have to worry about 'fixing' it. Weather has always changed as long as we have been able to keep records.

If by any chance,  wind blew everything off the earth, it would be because God wanted that to happen.

Actually, that won't happen. God has already divulged his plan for the end of earth. He spoke it after the flood that destroyed all but Noah's family. It will be fire next time. You can count on it. 

Recipe for Fun

Caleb and Oliver have lots of fun at museums. They are fortunate to have two very good ones that are somewhat handy for them to visit... one in Ft Collins and  one in Denver. Here they are in Denver in late January.

I love the way Oliver follows Caleb around learning from him every step of the way. They are very close and I love  to see that. Besides having each other, they are so blessed to have mommy at home with them, willing and able to stretch their minds and skills.

There is no more fulfilling role than that of a mother.

Renovation Fun Together

Ashley is the last of the triplets to renovate her bedroom. She chose some paint and here she is with her dad.   Oh yes, she learned how to scrape off wallpaper. At least it was just a border.

Nice paint, Ashley. Now I need a picture of the finished product. Do you have one, Ashley? We would all like to see what you've done.

We are still trying, because the Bible tells us to think about good things, to do just that.  "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things. Philippians 4:8.

But we keep being bombarded with bad things, like today, when ISIS bombed Brussel's airport and Metro areas.  Please pray that somehow, someday something positive comes from this. Help us look beyond all that is overwhelming us and see good in those around us. Good is still here, because God is still here. God IS Good.

Father we pray that you draw all your believers together in order  that evil will not abound, Amen.

Farm School

Farm school has been a big part of Caleb's life for years. Now, at two, Oliver is attending as well. After  these pictures were taken, Oliver went home and said, "Farm School is my favorite. "

It surely is encouraging to see them enjoy farm life so much. It would be wonderful if all children had this opportunity.

Cute Animals

These are some cute animals.  I'm not sure what they were, but these costumes the boys found in Vail in early January, tickle me. Oliver looks as if he doesn't know what to think.   Skiing is not all they did on their trip.

It certainly was an interesting winter here, not cold enough to kill bugs or germs. Today, now that spring is here, it snowed for several hours. It was a fairly heavy snow; however, it did not stick...not one bit.  However, 10 miles north of us, it was sticking.

Jump over to Colorado. Our son, John said it started snowing  on Thursday. They got about 9 inches. Then Friday it started warming and made what snow  that was left very moist and good for building snowmen. So of course, they built one. Tonight it is supposed to go down to 9 degrees.  Glad that right now I'm in OH, even though I really want to hold our new little grand daughter.

Recently, I've been bothered by high blood pressure and a lack of adequate treatment for that issue.

That, on top of the crazy political situation right now and working together to make we somewhat miserable at times.  I needed this message from Max Lucado. I'm copying it, in case it can be of value to you as well.

                                                                No Secrets

God has kept no secrets about this life. He has told us that we will experience trouble. Disease will afflict bodies. Divorce will break hearts. Death will make widows and devastation will destroy countries. We shouldn’t expect any less.

Yet just because the devil shows up and cackles, we needn’t panic. Jesus says in John 16:33, “In this world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” He speaks of an accomplished deed. “I HAVE overcome the world.” It’s finished. The battle is over.

Be alert but don’t be alarmed. Satan is loosed for a season, but the season is oh, so brief. The devil knows this and Revelation 12:12 reminds us, “he is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short.” Just a few more turns in the road, and his end will come! And we will have a new beginning.

Is This Mayberry?

Our playwright son-in-law Greg, works really hard, but he has his funny side as well. One of his friends told him he looks like Barney Fife, a deputy of Mayberry R.F.D. fame (It was a TV show that originally ran from 1965-1971)...then she proved it with these pictures. It wasn't hard for me to come up with this layout to show off the picture and tease him a little.

If you watched the show, you will be able to tell which one is which, but the likeness is striking.

In some ways, I'm glad we no longer have anyone serving as officers of the law in our family, since we have a segment of society who has no respect for the law or officers.  It is especially at times like these that we need to turn to the Lord for help. I have and this is some advice I found: Joshua 1:9 in the Bible's Old Testament says, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Let's remember that. God and good wins in the end. Rest your hope in His love.

No More Waiting

No More Waiting. That seems to be Julia's motto.

You got the story of her birth last night. Tonight, you get the picture. Her very first layout for Gramma's book.

This is your preview. You didn't have to wait for the book to be published. 

It really helps if you know the right people ;)

God Had a Different Plan

Julia was born at 6:00 AM this morning at home.  Mommy and Daddy were getting ready to go to the hospital. The birth was going to be induced. While Daddy was getting the boys ready to go, Beth called him from the bathroom. (Sorry about this picture, but this is too good to go untold.) She said, 

"I feel her head". John called 911 and went to help. Beth said,"Don't pick me up." So he told her to lean back and that she did. Within 4 minutes, Julia was born. John said he just had to catch her.

The emergency teams got there in multiples. All were amazed. John found a clean shoelace to tightly tie the cord and EMS cut it. Beth walked to the ambulance carrying the baby.

John cleaned the toilet with wet wipes, put the boys in the car and followed the ambulance in his car.

The nurses fed the boys cereal.

Everyone and everything is fine.

Happy Belated New Year Layout

Waited some time for a picture to use on this layout of Caleb's New Year's Eve. He developed a good plan and wrote it down for their celebration. I was impressed by his party plan. He is a special boy.

It's been a busy day, doctor appointment in the morning, dinner out and movie tonight with our life group. We saw The Young Messiah. Not in any way true to Jesus' life, but interesting anyway. It is always great to be with good friends.

Retiring early tonight. God bless you all with sweet sleep.

Helping Dad

Ashley is so good to help her dad, Greg Greene, who with his friend Wes Driver, founded Blackbird Theater.  She has gotten 'the bug' from him. Here she is with a poster of the Crucible which was the last play they produced.

It is good they have a close relationship. A girl's best protection can be her father. We are so glad to see him active in his children's lives.

I am still actively working on thinking healthy things, things that make our lives better.

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Denver Children's Museum

The boys are at the Denver Children's Museum. I believe membership was a Christmas present.

It is not very close to their home, but they are able to go once in a while. I did this layout some time ago, but just discovered today that I have a lot more pictures of them there, not all taken the same day.  I have enough photos for several pages...all cute, or course.

Still trying to ease my brain and bring on some lower blood pressure readings, by thinking of good things.

The bad news comes without any help. The world is full of it and I can't live in a cocoon, as much as I would like to, at least once in a while.

I was sent some wonderful pictures today that were taken of Caleb and Oliver this weekend.  I love outdoor pictures and Beth, a super mother, is great about getting the them out and about.  These
 pictures were taken on a walk by a river, and Colorado has some of the most beautiful blue skies and sunshine making these nature pictures excellent.  That's a very good thing.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.

Every One is Gifted

Ashley and Mason will finish up their home schooling this year and in the fall will go public, public school that is. They have been accepted into NSA, Nashville School of the Arts. Ashley is the artist and Mason sings. *As a matter of fact Ashley is the one who applied for acceptance into the school. Mason did not, but the choir director there had heard of him and requested that he audition. Audition he did and it was a go. So the sister and brother will travel together through high school. 

However, Aussie has quite different interests, i.e. Chinese and Rubik's Cubes. So he is still researching and hoping to be accepted into a school that will suit his skills.

I pray that they will continue to make good choices in everything, friends and activities,  so that they can avoid the pitfalls of life. 

We are so proud of them. We love all three tremendously.

* I've been corrected.  These two sentences above are not correct. Here is the real story:

Greg, Mason's dad, had applied for Mason's admittance to NSA as a second choice, but had not told his son. When Mason found out, he was not happy about it and did not show up for the first audition. However, the choir director was still looking for students after the first audition, so he asked for Mason to audition. At that time, Mason decided overnight that it might be a good idea. So he learned the song. He went to the audition the next day and  truly impressed the director. 

It's a Birthday Cake

It's hard to say who really enjoyed this birthday the most.  John is at a point where birthdays are okay, he's not young enough to look forward to them and not old enough to fear them. But the boys don't have anything to think about but that good cake, especially Oliver!

Of course, there is also the love your children factor. It is so rewarding to see them enjoy themselves while being good. ;)  Of  course Beth probably baked that yummy cake, so she is happy to share her talent and see everyone appreciate her good baking. So it was a good day all the way around.

But then, we have to take in my reaction, which is all good joy. Joy to see my child and grandchildren happy.

We can also count your reaction if it is a good one.  Just so you are not jealous that they had a good cake and you didn't. Shame on me for even thinking such a thing. We know you have a good heart, or you wouldn't have read this far.

We love you all and pray you have a good birthday in your future.

Slippers and Boots

Another day at the farm, another day with their beloved chickens. This hen is one of Caleb's favorites. Her name is Slippers because she has feathers on her feet. Oliver is feeding her from a cup while Caleb holds her.  While the soft feathered chicken had slippers, it was January 21 and the boys had to wear boots in the snow.

I am so grateful that Caleb and his little brother, Oliver, enjoy their farm class. They are learning so  much and love everything they do there.

Sorry  that the typing is centered here, instead of lining up with the left edge of the page. This site does have a tool to choose the alignment, but it isn't working tonight for some reason. And of course, the layout, which I want centered is on the left. Oh well, it isn't a big deal. Not worth complaining about, but I am glad that there is a place to complain if need be.

Good night. Sleep tight... and remember God loves you.

Makes Me Smile

Who knows, in a few days, I may decide to change something about this layout. However, I wouldn't change a thing about the picture. It is Ashley. It is the real Ashley, the one I don't see as often as I would like. I don't see her near as often as I would like.

Although this photo was taken on Valentine's Day, it just doesn't lend itself to red and or pink flowers; even though she is a lovely flower in God's garden.

 Just wishing I could give her a big hug.  I wish there were not 500 miles between us.

Thinking of good things. The fruits of the spirit are very good things. Ashley reminds me of these verses:

Galatians 5:22-23. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

They Shall Be White as Snow

There is no need to wonder why there are so many blonds in Colorado. The suns is always shining, well almost always, during daylight hours anyway. Oliver is no exception. Here he is in the snow and the sun is bright.  He has found a way to spend some time while 'big' brother is skiing.

It is so easy to think of good things when you can look off in the distance and see these marvelous mountains, God's creation. And then look around and see the white, white snow. It might remind you of God's promise that our sins can be washed white as snow.

What a wonderful, freeing thought...that our sins can be forgiven by God. Sometimes we have trouble even forgiving ourselves, but it says there in Isaiah 1:18: "Come now, let us settle the matter," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow: though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool."

Love Those Cookies

Even though I risk offending some of you who are quite ready for winter to be over, I'm posting another picture of Caleb in Vail. It seems skiing was not the the only activity he devoted himself to while there. He did a good job of devouring those whooping big cookies.

I think we could say that Caleb was thankful for this special trip into the mountains. I hope he remembers this each time to glances at the snow capped mountains near his home.

Meanwhile, I will remain grateful that I possess all these wonderful photos of the boys and their parents to remind me daily that I have the best family ever...at least the best for me. 

Thank you Lord.

Coloring is the Rage

Coloring is no longer for kids. A new rage is adult coloring books. It is the hottest new trend in publishing. The market seems to be flooded with these books. Supposedly this undemanding hobby with it's therapeutic potential to reduce anxiety, calms one's spirit.

I'm not sure it would work the same for me. The pages I've seen are generally very intricate patterns, as in this book below, which would bring out the perfectionist in me...and that is quite stressful. 

The idea, however, is that concentration of focus pushes other troublesome thoughts out of one's mind. And that probably explains why it is so popular these days. The world is a troublesome place, more so than I was younger. I can understand the 'need' for the comfort this 'fad' delivers.

One of our daughter's enjoys coloring.  I suppose each person has her or maybe his own reason for enjoying this phenomenon. 

That said, this trend has inspired me to do the page above. With Photoshop and Photoshop Elements, it is possible to turn a photograph like this one of Oliver into a 'pencil' sketch. So I thought I would try it for this layout. It was fun.  

And yes, I could have cleaned up his face in the drawing and also in the original picture, but I love that little face just the way it is.

Inside and Out

Here they are at Kids Only, with the view from their window. They had fun Inside and Out while in Vail.

I would have more to say, but I must ration my words tonight. The day has been long and I think that I've surely overspent my vocabulary allowance.

I'm  loving those mountains and looking forward to seeing them again sometime this year.

Good night. Ask our Father, God to keep your mind peaceful. Sleep well.