New Home!

Check out the new site at: thisclassicallife.com/weblog

Installing WordPress

We're trying to install WP. We've decided that our archives will remain in blogger and the SP comments will stay. Starting July 1 (deo volente!), we'll be blogging from Word Press. Please remain patient as we make the move. Hopefully one of our first posts with WP will be pictures from Kate's 1st b-day party!

Wow ... the fruits of my labors

I suppose this is what I get for reading Wright, Yoder, RO, etc... Maybe I need to finish the Institutes?

Anselm 87% Karl Barth 80% Jürgen Moltmann 73% John Calvin 60% Jonathan Edwards 60% Augustine 60% Martin Luther 53% Friedrich Schleiermacher 53% Paul Tillich 40% Charles Finney 40% Which theologian are you? created with QuizFarm.com

WordPress

We're thinking of making the switch to WP. Any thoughts? Any ideas on how to transfer our SP comments?

Please Pray for These Women

We had only seen her twice, but we were really excited about the midwife we chose to deliver the newest Stewart. She's a Cerified Nurse Midwife and she was going to practice in a new hospital they are building really close to where we live. I got a call today from the scheduling department saying that she and her partner midwife had left the practice. I was stunned and angry, thinking, "how could she do that?"

She didn't. The doctors group (one of the largest, if not the single largest, OB/GYN groups in the city) decided to terminate the midwife program. No notice to the midwives or their patients. They have patients due this week they aren't permitted to speak to or to assist their births in any way. The contract they had signed forbids them from practicing within 5 miles of any VPW clinic, which are near most of the hospitals in the city, so even if they find a doctor to take them in, they are still going to have to fight a legal battle to practice.

Please pray for Leslie and Jessica. They both made a lot of sacrifices to work with this group. Leslie (our midwife) gave up another job in another practice less than 6 months ago to work with this group and deliver in this new hospital.

This is also a blow for our family, as the only other midwives practicing in hospitals are on the complete opposite side of town, a very long drive from us. The insurance we have makes a homebirth very cost prohibitive. The granola-y birth community is in an uproar about this, so hopefully, something will be done. Kate will be attending her first peaceful protest this week in support of the midwives.

Father's Day

Kate and I were able to celebrate Mike's first father's day as a dad of one who is not in-utero. It was really fun :o) We found the perfect card at Hallmark and got him several books.

When we found out we were expecting Kate, within a few days Mike suddenly exclaimed, "This means I get to celebrate Father's Day! Another excuse for you to buy me books!" I had to live up to that.

Book Meme

I got tagged by Megan!

1. How many books do you own?
Well, I counted about 715 when we were packing in Austin. We had a few boxes in the closet. We've bought a fair number since then and so... I guesstimate about 950 (not too shabby for two 23 year olds.) That's not counting any of Kate's books. I guess when we have the new baby, I will consider most of her books to be family books (the baby books and board books, especially) but all of them were bought for her so at this point, I consider them hers.

1. What is the last book you bought?
For me? I never buy books for me. Mike buys them! I bought Blue Like Jazz for my sister recently...

1. What is the last book you read?
The last book I finished was Angels and Demons by Dan Brown. I'm almost done with Playful Parenting by Lawrence Cohen.

1. Name five books that mean a lot to you.
(1) The Holy Bible - Sunday School answer, but it's true.
(2) My Name is Asher Lev/The Gift of Asher Lev - these beautiful novels by Chaim Potok are precious works. All these wonderful thoughts swirl in my head about calling and art and family life... while I am enjoying a well written and compelling story. Must reads.
(3) The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - I've long loved this book, but reading it with my class last year made it more precious to me than it was before. I can't wait to share it with Kate.
(4) Carry On, Mr. Bowditch - a childhood favorite that I read dozens of times growing up. I just love this story.
(5) Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory - a sociological study of Evangelicals in America seems so out of place on this list. It's a very readable account of about a dozen different niches in Evangelicalism. After reading it, I had my heart set on studying with the author, Randall Balmer, for a Ph.D in religious studies. But I met this guy named Mike...

Who wants to be tagged?

Thankful Thursday

"And let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving,
and tell of his deeds in songs of joy!"
Psalm 107:22

Blogger Troubles

We've really been having a hard time publishing recently. Anyone else?

"Thursday" 13

I usually post my answers on Amanda's comments, but they haven't been working for a while...

13 things you'd like to learn about, given enough time and resources. In no particular order:
1. Midwifery
2. the French language
3. Library Science
4. Educational History
5. Pediatrics
6. Vaccinations
7. Gardening
8. Classical Languages
9. Sewing
10. Interior Design
11. Historical Theology
12. Playing the Cello
13. Painting

John Piper and the PCA?

If Alexandra is to be trusted -- and she usually is -- then John Piper is preaching at GA this year. Why is John Piper (a baptist) preaching at the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in America? I really don't get it. I suppose its because being a "Reformed" "Presbyterian" right now usually means that you believe in "TULIP" and dedicate babies with water.

Word of God in English

Leland Ryken's Word of God in English is available for .pdf download from Crossway.

Thankful Thursday

Give thanks!

What Makes a Successful "Emerging" Pastor?

So, lately I've been trying to read about the "emerging" or "emergent" church, and post-liberal, postmodern theology.

It appears that one of the big leaders is Brian McLaren, who challenges NT Wright in number of books written. Well, in an attempt to learn about him on the web, I stumbled onto his church's website and learned that he is stepping down as Senior Pastor at Cedar Ridge Community Church, and they are looking for a new senior pastor.

What I found most interesting is the measures used by the church to determine success.

Success Measures

• General health and growth of church (qualitative and quantitative) and progress in Strategic Plan
• Sunday celebrations receive high evaluations from attenders, staff and LT
• Receives high evaluations from staff colleagues
• Can offer stories and statistics showing achievement of mission

What happened to "authentic", "God-focused" and not seeker-sensitive, socialism not capitalism? I thought these were important to "emerging" churches and christians?

Suddenly an "emerging" pastor looks a lot like a modernistic, Sacred CEO.

How disappointing. I thought the evangelicals were "emerging" past this.

*sigh*

We've been so busy lately: School ended on Friday for Mike and we went to an out of town wedding this weekend... our laptop is dying and the desktop fan isn't working so it won't start... Kate is running around everywhere and I am out of Zofran (anti-nausea medicine) and feeling pretty icky. But the apartment pool is open and we broke down to buy the county mandated Little Swimmer diapers and so we may just get in a good summer grove yet.

Spelling Bee!

Kate and I are watching the Scripps-Howard Spelling Bee on ESPN and the second word of round 6 was soteriology!

Thankful Thursday

First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world.
Romans 1:8

My Apologies

To all of Kate's fans who are wondering why I haven't uploaded a picture in more than a month:
I changed the settings on my digital camera so I take larger, clearer pictures for printing purposes. But now my pictures are too big to upload in Coppermine without resizing. With being tired and sick, I haven't had the time and energy to find a batch image resizing freeware program that didn't require the .NET platform. I do apologize for my laziness. But tonight, I spent hours doing just that and will provide pictures soon and very soon. I do not promise large quantities of great pictures. Again, I am not feeling my best. But you shall have a few pictures!

*UPDATE* Pictures added to April and May albums.

Personalizing the News

When Deep Throat's identity was revealed, the part I found most interesting is that he now lives in Sonoma County, where Mike was born and raised. I have really lost my current events edge.

Calling and the Single Christian Woman

We reformed-types pride ourselves on a biblical understanding of calling. A pastor doesn't have a higher or more godly calling than a lawyer if both are doing their work to the glory of God.

In homeschooling circles lately, I've seen an interesting emphasis on the calling of single Christian women to reject college, stay at home or with church families and practice homemaking skills until marriage. Of course, if a young woman earnestly desires to help her mother at home, or a young mother in the church, she should be encouraged to do so. However, that is not the only way a young woman can benefit the church and her future family. Going to college and training as a teacher, a nurse and even a lawyer can also be a great benefit to the church and her future family, as long as the young woman doesn't hold that career up as an idol.

Of course, there are a number of factors that come into play when considering college for either men or women, such as money and ability. But if a woman is desirous of futher education, capable and financially able, we would be remiss to discourage her. I have known former nurses, teachers, bankers, writers, artists and lawyers who used their skills to the benefit of their families and churches while also being devoted stay-at-home mothers. Let us be slow to glorify any secondary, vocational calling above all others, for men or for women.

Thankful Thursday

Oh sing to the Lord a new song,
for he has done marvelous things!
His right hand and his holy arm
have worked salvation for him.
Psalm 98:1

What iTunes should I buy?

I have some gift card $ in my iTunes account, what classic songs and new music are just must haves?

Recent Reads

Families Where Grace is in Place by Jeff VanVonderen (8.5) I really enjoyed this book. VanVonderen is a Christian counselor who explains in this book how to (and conversely, how not to) have healthy relationships within families. It doesn't focus merely on parent-child dynamics, it spends more time addressing spousal relationships and in the end, is a good guide to all of our close and intimate relationships. I don't agree with all of his conclusions, though I do affirm the majority of them, but I felt the book was worthwhile in the way it made me think differently about the relationships I am in and how I want them to be characterized. It's definitely a book I'll read again in the future! (Borrowed from the library.)

Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott (8) I love memoirs and I love Anne Lamott. Her candor is refreshing and her perspective is helpful, albeit liberal and mainstream at times. We need to make efforts to understand the non-evangelicals in the bride of Christ, our brothers and sisters in the church. Lamott helps me to do this, even in small ways. I'm looking forward to reading her new book, with further thoughts on faith. (Borrowed from the library.)

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling (9) I admit it, I love Harry Potter. You read that title right, we own the first four books in the purist UK editions. I've begun embarking on my re-read leading up to the release of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince this summer. I always enjoy escaping into the world of wizards and British public schools, every novel in this series simply charms me and keeps me turning pages until I finish way too soon. (From the bookshelf.)

Update

First, a PSA: Dorel, the parent company of Eddie Bauer, Safety 1st, and
Cosco brands has recalled about 200,000 rear-facing infant child safety seats. I got an email about it from a mom in my playgroup who is a certified safety seat technician, but haven't seen it on the web yet. Leave a comment if you want me to forward you all the info.

It's been a long week. School is winding down for Mike and ends the first week of June, so he is dealing with summer-crazed students. I have been really sick and Kate finally cut her top two teeth. We did enjoy getting to go to the midwife for the first time yesterday. We are planning on delivering in a new birthcenter within a hospital, opening in September.

Thankful Thursday

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18

IM's and iambs

This story was told by an AP Latin teacher on a listserv. This is her AP Latin student conversing with her 7th grade sister:

7GS: You should look at my new book. It's written all in IM's.
APS: Iambs?
7GS: Yes, IM's.
APS: (Incredulous) As in, iambic pentameter?
7GS: No, as in 'brb' and 'ttyl'
APS: Oh ...

Update

I was a bridesmaid in Meadow and Dave's wedding on Saturday, so the weekend was filled with travel and events. The wedding itself was wonderful, the bride looked stunning in her gorgeous dress and I managed to not lose it in front of the church, which had been my biggest fear since finding out I was expecting. Mike had the lion's share of Kate duties and he did fantastically, especially considering he was dealing with a breastfed baby girl. All the wedding events had really good food, which is always a bonus. I got to see several old friends and meet some of Dave's blogging friends who I read regularly.

We stayed with the Sherrills in Charlotte, which is always wonderful. We are so thankful for their hospitality! We also got to spend some time with my family in Wake Forest before and after the wedding, and visited Christ Church NC and saw friends there and had Sunday lunch with Reba. It was a good trip for seeing folks!

Thanks for all of your congratulations regarding our new baby. We're pretty pumped. The kids'll be 18 months apart, and in all likelihood, that will mean 2 grades. I've been experiencing the extreme fatigue and all-day nausea of early pregnancy, which has been pretty rough and I'd appreciate your prayers that I feel better soon (for Kate's sake!)

Professions Meme

I got tagged by Amanda.

the assignment: choose five or more of the following questions to answer on your blog. link back to my post or further so we can follow the chain.

If I could be a scientist...If I could be a farmer...If I could be a musician...If I could be a doctor...If I could be a painter...If I could be a gardener...If I could be a missionary...If I could be a chef...If I could be an architect...If I could be a linguist...If I could be a psychologist...If I could be a librarian...If I could be an athlete...If I could be a lawyer...If I could be an inn-keeper...If I could be a professor...If I could be a writer...If I could be a llama-rider...If I could be a bonnie pirate... If I could be a photographer... If I could be an astronaut...If I could be a world famous blogger...If I could be a justice on any one court in the world...If I could be married to any current famous political figure...

* * * * * *

If I could be a farmer I would grow organic veggies and fruit and sell them to co-ops so other families could eat the yummy stuff I grew for cheap and we could still make a profit. (And I would really enjoy feeding my own family more organic produce.)

If I could be a doctor I would be the sort of doctor who treated her patients with respect, as health care consumers, and not see them as ignorant. I would not act holier-than-thou about my recommendations.

If I could be a librarian I would make sure the collection was full of the most wonderful books and show children and adults the joys of reading. I would also work hard to have great reference materials for students to use. (I dream of getting my MLS someday, so this might happen!)

If I could be an inn-keeper I would always have a few rooms reserved for friends and family (and friends of friends) to stay for free. Paying for gas and food and hotels gets really expensive and we have been so blessed to often stay with friends as we travel.

If I could be a photographer I would capture the simple joys of family life and everyday America. I would also have lots of great pictures of my own kids as a bonus!

I'm tagging: Bekah, Camille, Ellen, Jen W. and Josh

Thankful Thursday

Just in case you missed this, Thankful Thursday was started by Kelly a while back and I'm hosting it for the time being while she and her family go through some big transitions. Everyone lists three things they are thankful for in the comments.

I'm thankful for:
1. The covenant of marriage, and for Meadow and Dave and that I get to be involved in their wedding this weekend!
2. Mike, who so graciously sacrifices and serves our family.
3. The joyous surprise of a new baby Stewart, due to arrive in late December.

Book Choices

The most important thing I learned: change teacher info sheet to read "amazon.com" instead of "b&n". Amazon is so much cheaper than b&n. True, you have to do everything online, but that's not a problem.

The second thing I learned is that you can only use one gift card per order.

Anyhow, my final choices:

With the $30 gift card:
Introducing Radical Orthodoxy
Pauline Eschatology

With the $20 gift card:
Biblical Theology
The Idiot (needed something cheap for the discount; chose a b&n 'classic')

Now, if b&n's system will final come back on, I can finalize the last order.

Recent Reads

Ultimate Prizes by Susan Howatch (8) The third book in the Starbridge Series. I really enjoyed the first two, and this was no exception. The cameos that Neville Aysgarth made in the second book didn't impress me, but I was impressed by how Howatch engaged me in his story, even though I wasn't initially interested. She's a very talented writer! (Borrowed from the library.)

Don't Make Me Count to Three by Ginger Plowman (3) I read this with a Mom's book study all winter. I wasn't highly impressed. She spends a lot of time (like, a third of the book!) talking about spanking and never really discusses other methods of discipline, other than talking with your children. And she's really into quoting scripture at children for every offense, which is fine if you are quoting scripture all day long in all sorts of contexts, but the idea of memorizing scripture to whip it out and beat my children over the head with it really didn't appeal to me. (From the bookshelf.)

The Meal Jesus Gave Us by Tom Wright (8) This short little book about communion is a real gem. It's very easily to understand and would be appropriate for teaching middle school aged children and above about the sacrament. My only desire is that it were a bit longer. (From the bookshelf.)

Close Encounters of the Blogging Kind

The Okimotos came over on Saturday afternoon after they finished some shopping in town. It is always our pleasure to hang out with Richard, Megan and the girls. All three of their girls are sweet and fun, but I must admit that I was really tickled when Ashley was being super polite and kept thanking me for dinner.

Last week, Rob was in town so we went up to the far West End and hung out with him, accidentally at the mall. It was fun and we conversed about a variety of cool topics, but we were all really cold. The new outdoor, Euro-flavor malls can be difficult that way! Less than a week before, when I was in North Carolina, Kate and I hung out with the rest of his family. Jeni and I (and all the kids) met up purposefully at the mall :o) We had a really good time and I'm looking forward to seeing them again.

Paul, by NT Wright

Has anyone heard anything about this book? I was looking up some of his Jesus/Christian Orgins books on Amazon, and I saw this one is to be released in October. This is definitely at the top of my Reformation Day gift wishlist. Oh, the irony.

Book Recommendations

Dear reader -- I've received $50 in B&N gift certificates and don't know what to get.

I have a couple Leitharts, some Wilsons, Jordan, and even some Smiths, already. I'm thinking of going along the lines of "meat and potatoes" Reformed: like Vos or Murray, but wanted to get some recommendations.

Any ideas?

Thankful Thursday

Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,
for those who fear him have no lack!
Psalm 34:8-9

Downtime

Sorry for the downtime. Our hosting company switched servers (a definite upgrade!), but it took some time for me to get our backup restored to the new server. Then, once we got everything back up, blogger said that we were too close to our 300mb quota to publish.

Well, after asking very nicely, our hosting company let me take advantage of the 2-for-1 deal (regularly for new or renewing customers). I added 400mb for $20. :o)

If you're looking for a great hosting company, check out HostPC.com.

We're back!

Sorry for the empty page yesterday, Host PC was switching our server and it took a lot longer than expected.

Thankful Thursday

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
I Corinthians 15:57

Please Pray

As I posted on her blog, Kate is suffering from her first ear infection. Please pray that she might feel better and get better sleep tonight. Thank you!

Last Interviews

Jen and Megan kindly answered some interview questions for me!

You know you've REALLY grown up when...

... you get really, really excited about a new vaccuum cleaner.

She looks just like her father!

Everyone thinks Kate looks just like Mike. Everyone. Even my mother. She's a cute kid, but seriously, if I hadn't carried her around for 9 months, I'd swear she had none of my DNA. The latest pictures are here.

Thankful Thursday

Now thank we all our God, with heart and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things has done, in Whom this world rejoices;
Who from our mothers' arms has blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love, and still is ours today.
Martin Rinkart

Impulsive

On a whim yesterday I loaded Kate in the car and drove 70 miles one way to Charlottesville for Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry's and a visit to Whole Foods Market. I got some great deals on 365 brand pantry items and organic produce. You can buy cartons of organic chicken broth made from free range chicken at Whole Foods for the same price as Swanson's anywhere else. I also had to support Kate's puffed brown rice habit. At $1.29 for a big bag, it's a small price to pay for her happiness. And um, the free cone of sweet cream and cookies (and free cup of strawberry-kiwi sorbet for Kate) wasn't bad either.

Recent Reads

The Weight of Glory by C.S. Lewis (10) Everything by Lewis is fantastic, and this collection of essays and speeches on a variety of topics will dazzle you with insight and require you to read s-l-o-w-l-y to digest all of its goodness. Reading and rereading Lewis is one of the greatest treasures of the Christian life. There's nothing more to say about that. (From the bookshelf.)

The Code of the Woosters by P.G. Wodehouse (10) A classic Jeeves and Bertie tale that had me laughing out loud to the point of tears on several occasions. Wodehouse creates the most vivid characters -- unbelievably stereotypical or quirky and yet so alive and real in his rich detail. I love humorous literature that doesn't insult my intelligence. Wodehouse is a master of this. I need to work through more of the Jeeves books! (Borrowed from the library.)

The Continuum Concept by Jean Liedloff (3) Blah. Journalists masquarading as anthropologists get my goat. I agree with some of her conclusions about the need for infants to be near their parents through babywearing and holding and about maternal instinct. However, her "research" methods are shoddy at best and she is far too excited about her ideas to be anywhere near objective about them. Its not particularly well written, either. (Borrowed from the library.)

Thankful Thursday

"In God we have boasted continually, and we will give thanks to your name forever."
Psalm 44:8

Miscellaneous

Honoring Napoleon Dynamite. Yesssss.

I got a free copy of Total Truth by Nancy Pearcy to review for Mind and Media.

Jane and I tied to win the annual TCL NCAA Tournament Challenge.

I'll get some questions for you, Megan and Jen. But no more interviewees!

Weekend

On Saturday, we drove 2 hours to say goodbye to my grandma before she migrates north for the summer, and then continued on to Charlotte via Chapel Hill, where we had to make a stop, so we could see friends and attend some wedding showers for Meadow and Dave. On Sunday, we turned around and drove back. Mike was wonderful about all the time behind the wheel and Kate was exceptionally sweet in the car and with all the new people. It was a great weekend!

Interview Meme (Questions Part 2)

Questions for Rick:
1. What has surprised you the most about marriage?
2. What is the most enjoyable part of your job?
3. What scares you the most about becoming a parent?
4. If you had your way, where would you be and what would you be doing in five years?
5. Why penguins?

Questions for Amanda:
1. Why Baylor?
2. Someone is writing an article about you ten years from now. It begins, "I had the privilege of having tea with one of the most delightful women yesterday, well-known for her __________" What do you desire to be famous for?
3. If you had control of the RUF book table, what ten titles would you sell?
4. What five things do you hope to do before you turn thirty?
5. If you were in charge of Blue Bell, what flavor would you add to their catalog of divine ice cream goodness?

Interview Meme (Questions Part 1)

Questions for Lenise:
1. If you were to peek into the future, what do you see your life like in ten years?
2. As a former Lutheran, what do you appreciate about that tradition, as opposed to Presbyterianism?
3. If money were no object, where were you vacation this year?
4. When were you diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis? What is the biggest lesson you feel you have been taught by this condition?
5. What blogger would you most like to have lunch with and why?
ANSWERED HERE

Questions for Sora:
1. You are a women of many talents (musical, sewing, knitting, cooking...). What talent do you wish you could add to your repitoire?
2. If you were given $100 you HAD to spend on yourself, what would you buy?
3. As someone I consider pretty crunchy, what is one natural living habit you wish the whole world would practice and why?
4. As a former Jew, what do you think of the Messianic Judaism movement?
5. Based on location alone (not considering people, churches or jobs), where was your favorite place that you have lived and why?
*BONUS* As the maker of these wonderful dolls which are terrific for modelling birthing, breastfeeding and babywearing, have you ever considered a referral discount for those who convince others to buy dolls with persistent advertising and links? ;o)
ANSWERED HERE

Questions for Jessie:
1. What most inspired you to change churches?
2. What do you miss most about John Knox PCA?
3. If you could have one super power, what super power would you choose?
4. What is the most enjoyable thing about your new job?
5. You've got a free day (and so do all of your friends!) with $500 to spend and a bus. What would you do?
ANSWERED HERE

Oh no ...

... now Wayne will really turn up the pressure.

It all started when Bunnie asked her readers to take a poll on which theology most closely alligns with one's own. My results:

1: Eastern Orthodox (100%)
2: Anglican/Episcopal/Church of England (97%)
3: Presbyterian/Reformed (91%)
4: Lutheran (82%)
5: Roman Catholic (80%)
6: Congregational/United Church of Christ (73%)
7: Baptist (Reformed/Particular/Calvinistic) (58%)
8: Church of Christ/Campbellite (37%)
9: Methodist/Wesleyan/Nazarene (26%)
10: Seventh-Day Adventist (22%)
11: Baptist (non-Calvinistic)/Plymouth Brethren/Fundamentalist (17%)
12: Pentecostal/Charismatic/Assemblies of God (10%)
13: Anabaptist (Mennonite/Quaker etc.) (5%)

My wife apparently got similar results, though for here Anglican was 100% and E.O. was 3rd with 95%. Presby/Reformed was 2nd with 97%.

Thankful Thursday

"I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart;
I will recount all of your wonderful deeds."
Psalm 9:1

Don't Forget!

Click on the image to enter the April Challies giveaway!

Go Tar Heels!

It has been such a joy to watch the Tar Heels this season. They have played with great skill, but also with class and dignity. I'm proud to be an alumna of that fantastic institution and will always cheer for the boys in light blue, no matter what happens tonight. I was a student during the Doherty years, including the 8-20 season, and I still loved them back then. Nothing can stop me now.

We'll be up watching the game, and Kate'll be snoozing in the Tar Heel onesie Reba bought her before she was born. Reba will be cheering on the Heels in St. Louis. I'm really excited for her! GO TAR HEELS!

Christ, Have Mercy

Mother arrested for trying to intervene to stop her 14 year old daughter from having an abortion.

Praying for this family, this clinic, for the state of Illinois, and for our nation.

Interview Meme

Anne interviewed me!

1. I always thought that the holodeck on Star Trek was cool... a room whereby upon entry you could say, "Holodeck, I want to go skiing in Aspen," and the door would open to a virtual world of snow and ski lifts. Or one could say, "Holodeck, Robin Hood and his Merry Men" and you could ride a horse in costume to fight the Sherriff of Nottingham with all your friends. If you had access to a holodeck, what would you choose to do, and why?
What a hard question! Holodeck, I want to go backpacking through Europe.

2. What is the most challenging thing you ever accomplished? What did you learn from it?
Michael and I's long-distance relationship was very challenging. We were both students and working, very busy, and living in Austin, TX and Chapel Hill, NC, so we only got to see each other about every six weeks, sometimes less! Learning how to communicate well without seeing each other often was a lesson I think will serve our marriage well.

3. Where did you grow up? What was your childhood like? Were you raised PCA? When did you receive eternal life
I was born in upstate New York and moved to North Carolina in middle school. In New York, we lived in a very rural area and my favorite memories of my childhood were exploring the acres and acres of field and forest behind our house. I have a vivid recollection of lying in a big bed of moss, and being so still I felt deer and wild turkeys walk right beside me. I didn't join the PCA until college, though I was raised in a Christian home for the most part. This post from several years ago goes into some good detail about my spiritual history. :o)

4. If you have made a mistake that you learned from and want to share a caution or warning, I am interested in your wisdom.
I've made lots of mistakes, but nothing specific comes to mind other than being close-minded. I have often heard ideas and thought, "I would NEVER do that" and ate crow later. Never say never! (Co-sleeping is one thing that comes to mind.)

5. What is your philosophy on the education of our children and how is that similar to and different than your work as an elementary school teacher?
I taught at a school that was influenced by both Charlotte Mason and the classical Christian school movement, but was also geared towards kids with a variety of learning styles and levels. I really appreciate that philosophy. There are time-tested ways of education that engage children and help them to learn to the best of their potential. But not every student can be taught the same way, because we are all unique! As Michael is a teacher at a classical school, we want to support the school by sending our children there, as long as it serves them well. If any of our children did not learn well in that school's environment, or were behind or very far ahead of their classmates, we would definitely consider homeschooling. As teachers, we have also seen some the benefits of institutional schooling, including some cases of seeing benefits to former homeschoolers. Boys flourishing with academic competition, students learning to get along with others who may be different from them, etc. I saw my work as an elementary school teacher as being an asset to parents and helping them in their task of educating their children. Parents have the primary responsibility, but schools, tutors and churches can be terrific resources and regents to aid parents in their calling.

I love asking questions! If you want to be interviewed, just leave a comment and I'll cook up some questions for you.

Thankful Thursday

"I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers."
Ephesians 1:16

Gary Ezzo and Babywise

This post was inspired by a comment on a previous post.

I do know that there are godly and loving parents who choose to use the Babywise program, but there have been major concerns raised that have been well-documented at the ezzo.info website.

Concerns about Gary Ezzo himself
He has been under church discipline multiple times, and is currently excommunicated from an evangelical church in California, which he attended before moving to the east coast. He has been caught in habitual lies about a wide variety of things, including inventing degrees he did not earn (including GPAs!) for a job application and to publishers. All of this occured since his parenting ministry began. In his writings, Gary Ezzo lists one of his creditials as being "a successful parent" but the first word he used to describe his relationship with his children was cordial, and his son-in-law embezzled $500,000 from his company while employed there. In 2001, Multnomah, the former publisher, dropped Ezzo's very lucrative books over concerns about medical misinformation and Ezzo's character. Many prominent evangelical Christians have publically stated concerns about Ezzo and the Babywise material including Dr. James Dobson, Dr. John McArthur, Dr. Philip Ryken and Tedd Tripp.

Beyond all of this, Gary Ezzo has no medical background whatsoever (no undergraduate degree and a master's degree in ministry from a program designed for non-college graduates already active in ministry work.) Growing Families International, the Ezzo's company, has claimed that Anne Marie Ezzo has a pediatric nursing background, but no coursework or degrees have ever been cited. Babywise is a secularized version of Ezzo's Christian Preperation for Parenting material (now retitled Along the Infant Way). This was in it's third edition before the first edition of Babywise was published, and the medical content is virtually the same, so Dr. Bucknam is NOT a true co-author, but merely a name slapped on to add credibility to the Babywise program.

Concerns about Babywise
There have been numerous revisions and new editions of Babywise (P4P, etc.) in the past eighteen years they have been distributed. Almost one per year. Why all the changes if the materials are so good and Ezzo claims that the message behind them has remained the same? Because the books have been linked to dehydration and failure to thrive in infants and the American Academy of Pediatrics has come out against Ezzo and pointed out that his feeding schedules do not meet their guidelines for breastfeeding. Here is a comparison of the AAP infant care advice to Babywise. So, he's changed his tune, shortening the minimum time between feedings listed in his books, etc. But a good deal of the core concerns the AAP have raised have remained the same throught all the changes.

Numerous news reports and individual testimonies have shown the medical problems intelligent and devoted families have encountered because of using Babywise. Here are more testimonials.

Having read most of Babywise (the latest edition, it was given to me), a big concern for me is the Attachment Parenting strawman and misinformation he provides about other parenting philosophies. Over and over again in the book he talks about how every cry doesn't mean that a baby is hungry and how demand feeders just put the baby to the breast for any cry. I know LOTS of moms who demand feed, and no one does that. He has the parallel between the cousins, Marisa and Chelsea. Chelsea is parented by Babywise and is basically perfect. Marisa is APed and is basically a terror -- can't be put down, can't be left, wakes up all night, etc. My 8.5 month old has never had any seperation anxiety and loves to be babysat because she is a people person. The three children I have seen firsthand this year with severe seperation anxiety were all Babywised and scream the entire time their mothers are out of the room. There is no parenting philosophy with guarantees about personality and all of the other factors! I carry my daughter around in a sling all the time, we have co-slept and put our daughter in a crib and car seat to sleep, she night-weaned on her own and sleeps through the night (12 hours+) when she's not teething. She started sleeping 5-6 hours before three months, without any crib-crying. Several Babywise mothers I know assumed that I babywised because my child is so happy and sleeps through the night, because they thought un-babywised babies didn't do that. Seriously. And that's just silly. Children were happy and well-adjusted for millenia before Gary Ezzo was born.

Gary Ezzo has said some pretty crazy stuff. In regards to letting children cry themselves to sleep, the Ezzos say, "God is not sitting on His throne waiting to jump up at our every cry, trying to prove that He loves us." They cite Christ crying out to the father in Matthew 27:46: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" as proof of this. What sort of a parallel is that? See this series on things Ezzo says for more crazy quotes: 1, 2, 3, 4.

My philosophy of parenting an infant is that I am serving my child in a Christ-like fashion. She is one of the least of these, small and frail, helpless and dependent. I don't manage her, I serve her as a fellow human being and a sister in Christ through baptism. Sometimes that means that if she is bothered by teething pain, I have to get out of bed to comfort her. Sometimes that means that I need to feed her because she's hungry, even if I just fed her two hours ago and have a whole list of chores to do.

But, there is freedom in Christ as far as parenting philosophies go, and if knowing all of this about Gary Ezzo and Babywise you still chose to follow his advice, that's your choice and I respect that. I do think it is important for Christians to know the rest of the story about Gary Ezzo before they chose to use his books.

He is Risen!

This joyful Eastertide,
away with sin and sorrow!
My Love, the Crucified,
hath sprung to life this morrow.

Had Christ, that once was slain,
ne'er burst his three-day prison,
our faith had been in vain;
but now is Christ arisen,
arisen, arisen, arisen!

My flesh in hope shall rest,
and for a season slumber,
till trump from east to west
shall wake the dead in number.

Had Christ, that once was slain,
ne'er burst his three-day prison,
our faith had been in vain;
but now is Christ arisen,
arisen, arisen, arisen!

Death's flood hath lost its chill,
since Jesus crossed the river:
Lover of souls, from ill
my passing soul deliver.

Had Christ, that once was slain,
ne'er burst his three-day prison,
our faith had been in vain;
but now is Christ arisen,
arisen, arisen, arisen!

Maundy Thursday Service

Kristen, Kate, and I attended the Maundy Thursday service at St. Matthias, our local ECUSA parish. Towards the end of it, during the preparation for communion, Kate began to get fussy. As per our custom, I picked her up and walked toward the back row to pace behind the last pew -- she loves to walk around, hates to sit still. What do I hear but the rector shouting from the altar, "You don't need to take out the baby; she's fine!"

I'm beginning to really like this church. It nearly broke my heart when I had to deny his offer of communion to Kate during the Ash Wednesday service.

Something for You Pregnant Bloggers

I highly recommend that you have a birth plan, to communicate your wishes to the hospital staff. Even if you discuss something with your doctor, it needs to be on paper and signed by the doctor for nurses and others that will care for you. The format of our birth plan was modeled after one we were shown in our childbirth class. It is very focused. We researched and tried to cut out everything that was already hospital policy (Mike getting to be there if I had a caesarean, etc.) so that it would be short and to the point. Anyhow, all of our nurses took time to compliment it and said that it was one of the most useful ones they had seen.

Thankful Thursday

Now, our God, we give you thanks,
and praise your glorious name.
1 Chronicles 29:13

Around the Blogosphere

We've got new links.

Bunnie lays out the facts of the Terri Schiavo case.

Richard got video of Nate Wilson talking about the Shroud of Turin on World News Tonight.

TulipGirl is talking about Galatians, Martin Luther and parenting.

There are so many blogging pregnant mommas!

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to You!
Happy Birthday to You!
Happy Birthday dear Michael!
Happy Birthday to You!

Sale Alert!

Moms, Dads, Grandparents, etc. -- I have had my eye on this for Kate for several weeks. Then I remembered we had $17 in Toys 'R Us gift cards so I went by to pick one up today. They are having a buy one Little Tikes toy for $19.99 or less, get a second of equal or lesser value free. So we got her one of these for free. Sale ends tomorrow.

Thankful Thursday

"Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love
and his wonderful deeds for men.
Let them sacrifice thank offerings
and tell of his works with songs of joy."
Psalm 107:21-22

St. Patrick's Day

Happy St. Patrick's Day. It snowed here, and I haven't had a McDonald's Shamrock shake since the early '90s, but otherwise, it was pretty good. I made corned beef.

One more reminder

Remember to fill out your bracket and join our tournament challenge group before noon on Thursday!

Recent Reads

Glittering Images and Glamorous Powers by Susan Howatch (8) I really enjoyed these novels, which are the first two in Howatch's Starbridge series, focusing on Anglican clergy. She writes well, and the characters are compelling. They are my favorite sort of novel -- not difficult to read, but not insulting to my intelligence, either. I preferred Glittering Images to Glamorous Powers, but they were both good. There is material in them I wouldn't want a young teen to read, so I recommend them for adults only. For the record, I'm a little harder with fiction than non-fiction, as far as rating goes, because there is so much good and beneficial fiction. (Borrowed from the library.)

TwentySomeone by Craig Dunham & Doug Serven (10) I found this to be a very helpful and worthwhile book. It should be required reading for Christians about to graduate from college. There is a great deal of wisdom on a wide variety of topics, presented in a fun and engaging way. I am a footnote fiend (whoever invented endnotes ought to be tarred and feathered) and they make good use of footnoting, which earned them bonus points. I guess at 23, I am in the target audience for the book, but I did all of the major life transitions of a twentysomething in six months (decided on a career, found a job, graduated from college, got engaged, planned a wedding, got married, moved halfway across the country away from friends and family, started job, got pregnant...) so a lot of what they said, I'd already learned from experience. But I figured as much, and read it more from the perspective of "would I recommend this to my sisters and others when they are facing these things?" than anything else. Not that I didn't learn things from the book, but you know what I mean. There is a great deal of specific advice in the book, and as expected, I don't agree with each and every piece of it, but I do agree with the vast majority, so I'd recommend it without hesitation. In fact, I've already recommended it, and am passing it along to a good friend tomorrow. (Borrowed from the library.)

All March Madness, All the Time

Okay, we're making it a tradition. This Classical Life is sponsoring its second ESPN Tournament Challenge group. Dawn Garrett took everyone to town last year :o) Make a bracket (it's fun! it uses flash!) and submit it to the group. For now, only you are able see it and you are permitted to revise it until the games begin. Then, everyone can watch as the tournament unfolds to see who has the most accurate bracket predictions. ESPN is giving out prizes, and what the heck, we might too! You can make multiple brackets, but only submit ONE to our group, please.

You'll have to register with ESPN if you haven't already. Click here to join our group. The password is "tclblog" (no quotation marks). Good luck! (And Go Heels!)

Basketball Madness

ACC Basketball is so fantastic. I've tried to keep my basketball enthusiasm to a dull roar on the blog this year (remember last year when we had the schedules/results on the side bars?). However, it's March, and I can't contain myself any longer. Carolina takes on Georgia Tech in the conference semifinal in just a few minutes and I am pumped, even in my sick state. I have been trying to explain ACC fever to Mike, now that we live in ACC country, and have only been able to point to the results, not the full reasoning. Results like the Wake County public schools (of which I am an alumna) always have a teacher work day on tournament Friday so kids can sit at home and watch the games without penalty. But my almost eighty year old grandma really helped me to understand it best. She is from Pennsylvania and has wintered with our family for the past few years. She has never shown any interest in any televised sport other than the NFL. Yesterday, she came home from the senior center mid-game and started asking how we (Tar Heels) were doing, etc. and making comments. Mike and I asked, "When did you get interested in Carolina Basketball, grandma?" She replied with a wave of her hand. "Living here, I can't help myself!" It's contagious.

Sick, Sick, Sick

We all keep getting sick. Please pray that it leaves us! I am so tired of being sick, and taking care of sick family members. I am a terrible sick person. Luckily, we were already in North Carolina for a few days for spring break and my family really helped take care of Kate since I was feeling bad.

Thankful Thursday

"Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the peoples!"
I Chronicles 16:8

High Five

Carolina beats dook and captures ACC regular season title... Yessssss.

iWorld?

I just read a really good piece by Andrew Sullivan, "iPod World: The End of Society?".

I was visiting New York City last week and noticed something I'd never thought I'd say about the big city. Yes, nightlife is pretty much dead (and I'm in no way the first to notice that). But daylife - that insane mishmash of yells, chatter, clatter, hustle and chutzpah that makes New York the urban equivalent of methamphetamine - was also a little different. It was just a little quieter. Yes, the suburbanization of Manhattan is now far-gone, its downtown a Disney-like string of malls, riverside parks, and pretty upper-middle-class villages. But there was something else as well. And as I looked across the throngs on the pavements, I began to see why. There were little white wires hanging down from their ears, tucked into pockets or purses or jackets. The eyes were a little vacant. Each was in his or her own little musical world, walking to their own soundtrack, stars in their own music video, almost oblivious to the world around them. These are the iPod people.

...

Now I have my iTunes in my iMac for my iPod in my iWorld. It's Narcissus' heaven: we've finally put the "i" into Me.

It does seem that the iWorld being created by iPods, cell phones, RSS feeds, etc... is very impersonal and therefore, very untrinitarian.

What is the appropriate Christian response?

Spring Break

Lazy days. I love it!

Thankful Thursday

Kelly has hosted the Thankful Thursday since July, which is an opportunity for people to list three things they are thankful for each week in the comments of her blog. I'm going to host temporarily on her behalf.

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." Psalm 106:1

Clerical Collars

Does anyone know where one might be able to find an episcopal-like collar?

One of my students is in a play and needs one this Friday. I believe he is the priest in "A Little Mermaid", or something along those lines.

On Works

Who wrote:

Yet the nomenclature chosen to designate these two epochs suffers from a lack of preciseness. To speak of a covenant of 'works' in contrast with a covenant of 'grace' appears to suggest that grace was not operative in the covenant of works. As a matter of fact, the totality of God's relationship with man is a matter of grace. Although 'grace' may not have been operative in the sense of a merciful relationship despite sin, the creational bond between God and man indeed was gracious.

This terminology further suggests that works have no place in the covenant of grace. But from the biblical perspective, works play a most essential role in the covenant of grace. Christ works for the salvation of his people. His accomplishment of righteousness for sinful men represents an essential aspect of redemption. Still further, those redeemed in Christ certainly must work. They are 'created in Christ Jesus unto good works' (Eph 2:10). Scripture consistantly indicates that the final judgement of man shall be according to works. While salvation is by faith, judgement is by works.

I Love our Library

I got sick :o(

On the bright side, we have one of the greatest county libraries ever. They have very extensive collections in books and DVDs, and are very willing to buy new materials requested by patrons. Since September they have purchased the following at my request --
+ Mudhouse Sabbath by Lauren Winner
+ Borderland: A Journey Through the History of Ukraine by Anna Reid
+ Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller
+ The Continuum Concept by Jean Liedloff

Sick Baby

Kate is sick. She is quite miserable, and the older she gets, the more she fusses about things like trying to un-stuff her nose. I am so tired, in spite of being forced to nap with Kate this morning. Mike was already sick with this last week, so I am dreading being the next to fall. Christ, have mercy.

Weekend

I rushed off to North Carolina on Friday for the day and really enjoyed hanging out with my mom. Kate did too. Four and a half hours of driving well spent.

Saturday, Mike brought me a Chick-fil-a breakfast biscuit in bed (Be still my heart!) and I had an inpromptu gathering with my best local friends that was very encouraging and edifying.

On Sunday morning we got up early and before 7:30 so we could make it to worship at Providence Church in Lynchburg. We enjoyed the service and the kind parishoners there very much. We spent the afternoon at the Okimotos, hanging out, eating good food and getting a kick out of their tremendously entertaining girls. Since our last visit, they have acquired another adorable girl-baby and a nice minivan. Congratulations to them! Ashley and Geneva show me how much I have to look forward to in the coming years with Kate. Kate tried to eat Fiona and also to poke her eyes out, but she emerged unscathed. Having two big sisters has made her mostly resilient.

Weekends are glorious.

Carolina Basketball

I'm loving watching the Tar Heels this season! We actually brought a 13" TV from my parents so we can watch games without dragging the baby to the sports bar, as we have been the rest of the season. It's glorious!

Now if Wake just loses and we don't, the ACC regular season title is ours...

We Need to Get a Farm

You know, I've never really given RC Sproul Jr & Co. much credit. In fact, I'll admit that I've been one of those reformed people who laugh and snicker, and felt self-righteous that I was ministering in the city and not running away from the world, but lately I've been thinking that it would be good for Christians to own farms and work them.

At least, it would keep us so busy that we wouldn't have time to draft heresy charges in a discussion forum, or gossip in parking lots. A lot of our communal sins as Christians could be avoid if our hands weren't so idle.

Then again, or perhaps case-in-point, I am writing this at 11:55, when I should be: (a) grading, (b) reading, (c) sleeping, or (d) talking with my lovely wife who made me the best V-day dinner ever.

Everything changes...

It's funny to see how far my opinions shift in so little time. Consider cloth diapering. When we lived in Austin, a few people asked me if I was planning on using cloth. (People are crunchy enough in Austin to ask those sorts of questions.) My immediate reaction was "GROSS! NO!" I did manage to mumble feeble excuses (no washer and dryer, moving so soon after the baby...) but internally I was thinking "No way!"

It took about 3 months for me to get interested in cloth, and another month of obsessive comparisons before I placed my first order.

I've been using cloth for more than three months now, and I adore cloth. Even now that she's not exclusively breastfed (parents will know what that means). I am contemplating making a few of my prefolds into fitteds and also making a few more all-in-ones and pockets to augment the WAHM AIOs I have and the Wonderoos we use at night. I love that I am saving money and putting cotton and fleece next to Kate's skin. Lessening landfill waste isn't a bad thing either. I still wouldn't mind someone buying me a mini-sprayer, though...

Recent Reads

A Mind at a Time by Mel Levine (9) An excellent book if you are seeking to understand how children learn, the different areas they can be gifted and weak in, and how to help them to improve their weaknesses and enhance their strengths. A must-read for teachers and homeschoolers. Dr. Levine is a secular pediatrician that leans liberal, and occasionally he takes a position on education that a parent or teacher might have a qualm with, but these are not frequent and are always very easy to spot. (Borrowed from the library.)

Grace-Based Parenting by Tim Kimmel (9) Written from a broadly evangelical perspective, this book on childrearing was breath of fresh air. It's *NOT* a book about why you shouldn't spank your children and it's *NOT* a book about how you should allow your children "grace" to do whatever they feel like. This father of four describes how he and his wife aimed to parent in a Christ-like fashion and cautions against common misconceptions in the evangelical community, such as fear-based parenting. I highly recommend it. (Borrowed from the library.)

In the Beginning by Chaim Potok (6) This is not Potok's best, but it's a good novel by modern standards. The protagonist is a Jewish boy in New York City (surprise!) and documents his childhood and adolescence. I am almost finished with all of Potok's novels. (Borrowed from the library.)

Ashes

"Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return."

We observed Ash Wednesday at the ECUSA parish around the corner. It was a blessing to be with them and to reflect on our mortality. The season of Lent, with all of its sobriety, is the precursor to the joy of Eastertide and the resurrection of Christ, who has conquered death and the grave.

Somehow all of this helped me cope with Carolina's loss to Dook last night. I cling to a hope of resurrection in the Smith Center next month. (Is that completely sacreligious?)

Update

We had a good trip to North Carolina over the weekend and enjoyed visiting with the Baxters and various folks at Christ Church North Carolina. Except for Sarah and Leah, who we missed because when we come into town, they get sick. It's happened three times now. We are a plague to them. Kate slept miserably at my parents' house, as usual. I guess I could start putting her down to sleep several times a week in the pack 'n play, but it is mostly used for contained play while I shower, cook, etc. so I think that is just not going to work. I use the same routine and sleep cues as at home, but she is not easily tricked.

Challies Monthly Giveaway

Tim is giving away the new ESV Reformation Study Bible and an autographed copy of The Holiness of God this month! [You can use Referral ID 32059]

Car Update

Last week, my CD player was installed. Best Buy is mailing a check. We were able to buy an iCarPlay with a Best Buy gift card given to me by the Raleigh store. It was so fun to drive down 85 and have so many choices as to what to listen to!

Carolina v. NC State tonight! Kate and I are pumped up and ready to cheer the Tar Heels on to victory.

Run, Don't Walk

Google released a new version of Picasa recently. It is absolutely terrific. Very decent digital photography editing program FOR FREE. It's auto functions work well, plus you can do neat things like black & white, sepia, etc. Did I mention that it's free? I had the old picasa, which I used to crop pictures and fix red eye, but the upgrade is like AAA baseball in comparison to little league.

Random Thoughts

Coffee - We have a lot of Starbucks giftcards, so we are getting addicted to going regularly. I have a coupon for a free Chantico that expires tomorrow, so we'll definitely go on a Starbucks date tomorrow. The Chantico ought to be sold in 2 oz. containers instead of six. It's way too rich to drink that much on your own! I can only drink it if Mike and I are sitting there, sipping on it together and mixing it with other drinks, over a long period of time.

Sam's Club - I love being a Sam's member. My parent's have a business membership, and added Mike and I awhile back. I get the best deals on some stuff -- like baby spinach, for instance. We get a 24 oz. bag of triple washed spinach for $3.47 -- cheaper than what a small bag costs in the grocery store. We eat spinach salad every day, so that's a really good deal.

Slings - I'm willing to make slings at cost right now for a few people. I'm considering trying to sell some through a baby boutique, and I want to see how professional I can get with practice. Plus, I really think slinging is a great thing to allow babies to snuggle close while letting moms go about their business. So, email me (check the sidebar) if you want one. I use the best fabric and rings, so cost is ~$25, with shipping. I'll bill you exactly what I paid for materials.

Friends

I have some really terrific friends.

Beth is my friend who convinces me the most that I am a judgemental jerk, and yet, I still love hanging out with her. Mike thinks that sounds mean, but I think it's great that I have friends who challenge the way I think and help me to see my sin and arrogance. And Beth and I about to become Y buddies. Great good fun times to be had.

Genevieve lives around the corner and is my "whenever, whatever" friend. She's just so helpful in tangible ways -- babysitting, lending a car, printing off something... Plus, she's got the greatest sense of humour of anyone I've ever known.

Meadow is the person who knows me the best. She might not live in town, but I probably talk to her as much as anyone else because of the joys of Sprint PCS mobile-to-mobile minutes. She understands me, and knows exactly what sort of encouragement I need. I can't imagine not being friends with her.

I have a lot of other great friends, too.

Kate and I almost died yesterday

I drove to Raleigh on Monday to get a CD player installed in my car. My parents bought it for me for Christmas, and had worked out free basic installation at Best Buy, which the Richmond store wouldn't honor. I figured it was a good excuse to bring Kate down and visit with my family. On Tuesday morning, I went into Best Buy and left my car and CD player. I went off to run errands with my mom. About 2.5 hours later, the installer called and told me he couldn't find all the wires he needed in my dash, and that I would need to get something from the Volvo dealership. Wanting to return home, I declined the service at Best Buy, got my car, ran another errand and returned to my parents' house. I packed everything in, and pulled out about 3:45. Later than I had hoped, and without a CD player, but I thought to myself, "at least I will be home before it is very dark." The drive usually takes 2 hours, 15 minutes.

When I got about 45 minutes from home, I went to turn my headlights on, as is customary when it starts to get dark. I had a funny feeling that they didn't turn on, but I looked at the time and thought, "I can still make it home before it is very dark." Unfortunately, about 10 minutes later, traffic stopped. There was a very large accident, requiring several fire trucks, EMTs, etc. We moved 2 miles in more than an hour. In that hour, it got dark, very dark. The darker it got, the more apparent it was that my headlights were not working. The install kid at Best Buy had disconnected them. I called my husband. I called my dad. I turned on my flashers. I could see because I was stuck in a pack of cars with operational headlights. As soon as I passed the accident, it became very very scary. I was driving on the interstate and couldn't see. I had Kate in the car. I was losing it. I saw an exit with a McDs and several gas stations listed, and got off, so Mike could come rescue us. I had never taken that particular exit before, and the only way to get to civilization (gas stations, etc.) was to make two immediate left hand turns, which I could not do with my flashers on and no headlights. I had to keep driving, into scary, scary, desolate areas, with nowhere lit enough to pull over. And I couldn't see. Finally, I came to a side street after 2 or 3 miles. A trailer park. I never thought I would be so excited to see a trailer park in all of my life. But it was a place to stop. It took about 5 or 10 more minutes for Mike to find us.

Now I am dealing with Best Buy corporate, trying to get my headlights fixed and my CD player installed. I can't drive at night or in the rain. They are very lucky nothing happened, because we both could have died. And I very easily could have hit someone. It was absolutely the most frightening experience of my life. They are also very lucky we are not the lawsuit kind.

Thank God that we are safe.

The Tim Challies Giveaway

I don't know how he does it, but Tim is giving more stuff away. Well, apparently these DVDs have been donated by MonergismBooks, but Tim makes a habit of this. Anyhow, I've entered the drawing to win these DVDs and you can too. They look pretty good and have come on good recommendation.



Use referral id: 21468.

Also, do check out Tim's website. He has a beautiful site and some great pictures, to boot ... and the theology ain't half bad either.

Roe v. Wade

Today is the 32nd anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Two years ago, as I walked through campus on my way to class, I was offered cake to celebrate. 40 million children and hundreds of women die, and they want give me cake.

We are the Roe v. Wade generation. We could have been aborted. I think this, coupled with the advances of science, has sobered many of our peers towards abortion. The vast majority of my pro-choice friends in college maintained that while they thought the right to an abortion was necessary, they themselves would never excercise it. Granted, they had never had to choose. But the fact that abortion is no longer thought of flippantly by many is an encouragement to me.

There are women right now making choices about what they are going to do about unplanned pregnancies. I am praying for one in particular that I know about. Please join me in praying for her and others. If you can, support your local crisis pregnancy center, whether monetarily or with donations of maternity and infant clothes, formula samples, etc. As Donna always says, love one another.

Crazy

So, an inch of snow paralyzed my home county yesterday. Routine, 15 minute commutes turned into 7+ hour marathons. And 3,000 students had to spend the night at 50 different county schools, including my alma mater, Wake Forest-Rolesville High. Did I mention that it was just ONE INCH of snow?

My First Snow Day!

Is it wrong that I shouted "YES!" when I saw that my school will be closed tomorrow? I'm so behind on grading. I probably shouted louder than my ninth graders, who were supposed to have an exam tomorrow.

And our first shipment of DVDs (3 total) came in from Blockbuster Online today. I'm seriously leaning towards keeping this.

Which is better?

I'm not sure which is better. This article by Tom Friedman from 16 Jan 2005 or the short message that followed.

The article argued that our status in the Muslim world will only get better when the lives of Muslims actually get better. Saudi Arabia spent less on Tsunami aid than it did on King Fahd's two vacations. Our foreign policy for the past 15 years has been about liberated Muslims from tyranny, yet we are still hated. We do more for the betterment of Muslim lives than other Muslim nations. Friedman argued that the possible outcome is to get the elections off soon, so Iraq can govern itself and focus on itself, rather than hating America. It's a decent article, I recommend you read it.

The short message that followed, read:

Maureen Dowd is off today.

Living Room

Here's our living room. I should upload a few pictures of our living room from last year so you can appreciate the vast improvement! For example, comfortable seating went from two (three if you count the computer chair) to SEVEN. I want to get this print and have it framed for above the couch.

Sewing Project

Back in September, I got my very first sewing machine. I've done a few projects trying to learn to sew this fall. I made myself a sling to carry Kate in, and I made two placemat purses as Christmas gifts.

We were given some furniture during the holidays which was such a blessing to us, including a Queen Anne chair. It's comfortable and a nice size, but it had been reupholstered plaid, which really didn't suit it well. I bought some fabric before Christmas, which has draped over the chair for the past month. Finally, today, I jumped in with both feet and made it a slipcover.


Before


After

Free Mac Mini

We've become smitten with Mac, but that was their plan. Just the other day, while organizing our iTunes and listening to our iPod, I read up on the new Mac Mini. Its Mac's sub-$500 (i.e., $499) computer. Unfortunately, to get it where you need it to surf wireless etc. it takes an additional $500 (monitor, mouse, keyboard, wifi 'stuff').

However, in our great capitalistic country, there is of course a "free MacMini website." We decided to give Blockbuster online a try and see if we can win a Mac. Unfortunately, unlike the iPod, the Mac Mini requires 10 referrals.

Remember: (1) Make sure your cookies are on. (2) Make sure you're not using Safari. [see Barlow's troubles] and (3) Help us win a Mac Mini (pst, here's your chance, Wayne!)

It worked for the iPod ...

Welcome Back and Recipe

Welcome back, Mosleys! Nathanael and Sarah are blogging again, and we're excited about it. So excited, I am going to post a recipe Sarah requested from me to commemorate this happy occasion.

TOMATO BASIL SOUP
1 1/2 c. Vidalia (sweet) onions, diced
10-15 basil leaves, chopped
2 T. garlic, chopped
1 28 oz can of whole tomatos
2 28 oz cans of diced tomatos
1/8 c. sugar
salt
ground pepper
2 c. reduced fat milk or cream

Saute onions, basil and garlic in the bottom of the pot (sprayed with non-stick spray or in a bit of olive oil). Process whole tomatos in blender or food processor for 10 seconds, set aside. When onions are soft, add all the tomatos and sugar. Simmer on low for 2 hours. Season with salt and pepper, add the milk or cream and heat through. Vary the taste* by adding red pepper flakes, frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained) sauted with the onions or add mozzarella cheese and garlic croutons before serving.

* We have never tried the red pepper flakes or spinach, but we always add about a half a cup of parmesean cheese to the soup and serve with mozzarella and croutons.

Book Reviews

I'm going to tackle these a few at a time, so I actually do them!

My Life For Yours by Douglas Wilson (9) I loved this book. It's a practical guide to family life and hospitality centered on the home. Like most of the family series, it's not particularly new ideas, but wonderful reminders and oftentimes good reasoning to keep on doing what I'm doing.

The No-Cry Sleep Solution by Elizabeth Pantley (10) If you have an infant (or expect one) this book is a must read. It's basically a book full of suggestions for helping your baby sleep longer and more soundly. No system. No hard-and-fast rules. Just tips for a better night's sleep!

I am Charlotte Simmons by Tom Wolfe (6) This is a pretty decent modern novel that captures modern college life perfectly. That means it includes a good deal of profanity and "adult situations". It is an interesting account of what happens to morality without a solid worldview and a deep faith when it comes under pressure.

Technical Difficulties

A few weeks ago, our php started to mess up. We haven't changed ANYTHING. It will pop back to normal with a refresh or two. We're sorry about that. If anyone knows how to fix it, just let us know.

Need tips: Keeping babies in church

Moms (and Dads too) -- how do you keep a six month old happily quiet during church? There are about eight babies in service right now, though Kate is the oldest infant. She's generally okay, nothing too awful, but I'd love tips on how to occupy her. We basically pass her around and let her look at a board book or play with a quiet toy.

From Richmond, With Love

We missed telling y'all Happy Epiphany yesterday. Epiphany is such a wonderful season. We're singing "When Christ's Appearing Was Made Known" and "Brightest and Best" with joy.

Kate is a force to be reckoned with on all fronts. What a fun kid.

We're still trying to get settled back in from our Christmas whirlwind. A trip to Ikea is helping our living room look that much cozier. Pictures forthcoming...

Books (again)

Someone asked what my favorite book read in 2004 was. Too hard to choose. Here are some finalists --

Best memoir - Girl Meets God by Lauren Winner
Best non-fiction (non-memoir) - Remember Who You Are by William Willimon
Best fiction read because of hype - The Brothers K by David Duncan
Best Dorothy Sayers - Clouds of Witness
Best Chaim Potok - My Name is Asher Lev

This year I probably read less "reformed" books than I have in 5+ years. It was a nice break. I think I am ready to read them again!

The Band

The UNC Marching Band was needed at the bowl game on Thursday, so when we arrived at the basketball game they were noticeably absent. They played recorded music. It was... strange. With about 4 minutes left, they arrived in the Dean Dome to great cheering and applause. It was as if the players came out of the tunnel for a second time. I wonder how often the Marching Tar Heels have an entrance like that!

Books Read in 2004

Aeschylus, Complete Works Vol. 1
Peter Leithart, A House For My Name
Hesiod, Works and Days & Theogony (tr. Lombardo)
Homer, Odyssey (tr. Lombardo)
Homer, Iliad (tr. Lombardo)
Dorothy Sayers, Five Red Herrings
Dorothy Sayers, Strong Poison
Dorothy Sayers, The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club
Dorothy Sayers, Unnatural Death
Dorothy Sayers, Clouds of Witness
Dorothy Sayers, Whose Body?
Dorothy Sayers, Lord Peter
William Willimon, Remember Who You Are
Patrick O'Brian, Post Captain
Patrick O'Brian, Master and Commander
Francis Schaeffer, How Should We Then Live?
John Milton Gregory, The Seven Laws of Teaching
Antony Kamm, The Romans
N.T. Wright, What Saint Paul Really Said
Tracy Lee Simmons, Climbing Parnassus
Doug Wilson, Recovering the Lost Tools of Learning

Books Read in 2004

Lauren Winner, Mudhouse Sabbath
Philip Roth, The Plot Against America
David J. Duncan, The Brothers K
Yann Martel, Life of Pi
Dorothy Sayers, Murder Must Advertise
Dorothy Sayers, Have His Carcase
Anne Lamott, Operating Instructions
David Lipsky, Absolutely American
Dorothy Sayers, Five Red Herrings
David Brooks, Bobos in Paradise
Dorothy Sayers, Strong Poison
Dorothy Sayers, The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club
Dorothy Sayers, Unnatural Death
Dorothy Sayers, Clouds of Witness
Dorothy Sayers, Whose Body?
David Pelzer, A Child Called "It"
Ron Suskind, A Hope in the Unseen
Chaim Potok, Book of Lights
Bryan Chapell, Each for the Other
Antoine de Saint-Exupery, The Little Prince
Chaim Potok, Davita's Harp
Dan Brown, The Da Vinci Code
Joseph Garcia, Sign With Your Baby
David Sedaris, Me Talk Pretty One Day
Chaim Potok, I Am The Clay
Madeleine L'Engle, A Wrinkle in Time
Kris Lundgaard, The Enemy Within
Gwen Gotsch, The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding
Chaim Potok, The Gift of Asher Lev
Lauren Weisberger, The Devil Wears Prada
Azar Nafasi, Reading Lolita in Tehran
Chaim Potok, My Name is Asher Lev
Robert Bradley, M.D. Husband-Coached Childbirth
Chaim Potok, The Promise
Chaim Potok, The Chosen
William Willimon, Remember Who You Are
Alan Paton, Cry, the Beloved Country
Nancy Wilson, Praise Her in the Gates
Lauren Winner, Girl Meets God
Amos Oz, A Perfect Peace
Randall Balmer, Grant Us Courage