A Confederate In The North

HELLO WORLD!!

2011-02-24T17:29:00.002-06:00

Wondering where I've been?

Too busy for blogging I'm afraid. :P I started feeling too swamped. There are so many good blogs out there, and I really wish I had time to read them all. :( If I got on daily maybe I could keep up with the people I *know*...

Anyways. I really wish I could read all the blogs I wanted to. Because you guys really have some interesting stuff to say! :) But yeah. I can't.

So I might comment on your blogs once in a while when I have the chance; but it'll probably be rare. Anyway...

GOODBYE WORLD!!

Tagged...

2010-05-11T20:21:00.002-05:00

I wouldn't be posting right now except I was tagged... But I suppose I'll give a quick little update... Our family just got a foreign exchange student from South Korea today!! Not sure how to spell his name. ;) Last month we went to Georgia/Alabama/Ohio for 2 weeks, had a blast!! Saw the some good friends again, my little brothers had a "Lego" competition, visited the Creation museum, etc...
This month we're going to the CPC Presbytery in Illinois... That should be enjoyable. :) Other then that we're finishing up school here... David's graduating, and a few other random things. :)

1. High heels or boots? Boots I suppose. *shrug* But I don't mind high-heeled boots either. ;)

2. What time did you get up this morning? 7:20?

3. What was the last movie you saw in the cinema? Oceans

4. What is your name? My real name? ;) Rebecca

5. What is your favorite TV show? Hm. Beverly Hillbillies can be funny... Hogan's Heroes can be as well...

6. What do you usually have for breakfast? Cereal or pancakes or bagels.

7.What is your middle name? Mae

8.What food do you dislike? Um... some pop and cotton candy and mushrooms and... oh, certain kinds of macaroni and pea salads. ;)

9.What is your favorite CD at the moment? Hard question.

10.What characteristic do you despise? The evil ones. :p

11.Favorite clothing? Uh... I kind of enjoy dressing up... when there's occasion to.

12.Anywhere in the world on vacation? Unsure. Virginia I suppose.

13. Are you organized? Sometimes.

14. Where would you retire to? *shrug*

15. What was your most recent memorable birthday? Right now my 15th because it's been most recent. ;) I really remember my 14th and 13th too... 12th not so much. But kind of. I really don't know.

16. What are you going to do when you finish? Look up some music, finish watching a video I started (five minutes long or so), etc.

17. What is your birthstone? Amethyst

18.Person you expect to publish this first? Publish? Hahaha.

19. When is your birthday? Feb. 8th

20. Are you a morning person or a night person? Night.

21. What is your shoe size? 9 roughly I guess.

22. Do you own any animals? 2 dogs, 2 ducks.

23. Any news you’d like to share? Our F. E. Student came today.

24. When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? A mom.

25. What is your favorite flower? Lilacs and Roses.

26.What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? In May? Our vacation should be splendid. :D Otherwise Sundays and the 31st.

27. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Noooo clue.

28. How is the weather right now? Coldish and somewhat gray.

29. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Seth.

30. Favorite drink? GOOD milk or juice. Sometimes water. Lemonade is pretty good. Slushies and milkshakes are awesome too. ;)

31.Favorite restaurant? Cracker Barrell

32. Hair color? Medium to dark blond.

33. What was your favorite toy as a child? ... I don't know, I played with siblings most of the time I remember.

34. Summer or winter? Spring.

35. Chocolate or vanilla? Depends on what it is.

36. Coffee or tea? With sugar please to the former, and peach to the latter.

37. Wish you were still young? What's young? I wish life would slow down, yes.

38. Do you want your friends to publish this? Publish? Hahahahaha.

39. When was the last time you cried? Not sure... I guess it was May 8th... early.

40. What is under your bed? an empty alarm clock box and a book.

41.What did you do last night? Read and slept.

42.What are you afraid of? Things I shall not say. ;)

43.Salty or sweet? Depends what it is.

44.Best quality you have? Noooo clue.

45.How many years at your current job? Job=Life. Years=15.

46.Favorite day of the week? Sunday!

47.What four people will you tag?

Looking Back...

2010-01-10T20:47:00.001-06:00

My Dr. said it'd be good for me if I wrote out some goals and looked at old ones, so I've decided to do so. ;)
(Actually, I haven't seen the "real doctor" since I was a baby... but that's not the point)

I know I haven't posted in a long time, but I'm not too sorry about it since I've saved myself and you all a lot of trouble. ;) Just kidding again...

But --I have decided to once more--post.

Here's looking back at my previous "goals"...

I. To sanctify. That will always be a goal.
I do believe I've sanctified in some areas this past year, but obviously I'm far from being finished.

II. To excel in sewing, various musical things, and other handy things I can use in my later life.
In the area of sewing, I finished a skirt I believe, sewed/mended a few random items, and made most of my friends sewed gifts for Christmas. :)
Concerning music, I just took up violin a few weeks ago, and I hope that speeds along. I'm enjoying it so far. ;)

III. To memorize a lot more of the Bible.
Last summer we had Bible Bee, so I got a bit memorized for that. Lately I've been working on Psalm 42... I definitely have not been as diligent as I should be, and I really need to set aside more time for memorization.

IV. I know there won't be much political stuff going on this year, but supporting the good candidates at least.
There really wasn't a lot going on politically. We didn't go to any big things that I can remember concerning politics... Hm. Maybe next year there'll be more.

V. Maybe learn more of a language... I've always thought it would be neat to learn Dutch or Hebrew or Spanish or Sign Language (which would be easiest probably) or pretty much ANY other language. But I only know a few words of a few languages.
This goal-- *clears throat* --didn't go anywhere. :) I didn't learn anything more then a couple words in any language... But I'm not too disappointed over this I guess. Learning a different language wasn't set high on my list...

VI. Who knows... Become the best gun shooter in IA? That'd be kind of fun.. VERY doubtful. :)
*laugh* Well, I knew I wouldn't become the best shot. ;) I did have a few chances to practice more, which was enjoyable for the most part...

VII. Crucify the flesh.
Not as much as I should have I'm afraid...

VIII. Finish 9th grade. I'm running out of things I can think of at the moment. I'm obviously going to finish 9th grade unless something drastic happens.
And, I am now in the middle of 10th grade... This goal was easily finished. ;)

IX. To read a LOT more of non-fiction, history, and good books. Learn a ton. And not forget it.
I'm not a very big reader... I did start a few books, and I've read more then some of the previous years, but not a vast amount.

X. Learn to be humble. Pride is the root of a lot of sins. But this is kind of the same catagory as 1 and 7.
It's sometimes hard to tell what's false humility, and what's real... You can pretend to be humble without actually doing so... I don't know where I've gotten exactly on this, but I hope to keep improving...

Alrighty, that covers last year... I'll post a few "goals" that I have for this year, though--yeah. I'll go retrieve them from my room...

...

2010

Regarding Music:
Piano:
-Do quite a few preludes and communions, 1-2 a month
-For fun: Compose a few more songs, etc.
Violin:
-Be through Book 1 by July 1st
Voice:
-Take part in some type of thing. I know, that's pretty vague... I'd like to do more though.
All:
-Go to the Nursing Home 6 times; do a program each time, including all three of the above.

Regarding Sewing and the like:
-Sew 2 articles of clothing on the machine. (For some, this might be more normal/usual... I don't sew as much as a lot of you I'm sure.)
-Finish a cross-stitch. (This is something I have never done... apart from one really, really small thing.)
-Knit the patterned scarf.

Regarding Writing:
-Put together some old writings into one place... Kind of have it more organized. (Type A?) ;)
-Write 1-2 books.
-For fun: Write a few songs and poems.

And so far that's all I have. Mostly regarding "fun" stuff. Hobbies and the like.

Anyways. That's it I guess... I was thinking earlier this month of stopping the blog altogether since I never really post on it... But I decided I'd stick with it. Don't expect tons of posts though. :) It's a good way to stay in touch with a few people though I'd say...

*stops rambling*

My Entries to a Photography Contest...

2009-10-30T09:46:00.006-05:00

Well, a Photography Contest is being held here:
http://photosbykeilah.blogspot.com/2009/10/first-ever-looking-through-lens.html

And so I'm posting my entries right now. :)

Although Spring is my favorite season, I can't find a picture that really, really fits it. So I'm just doing Summer, Fall and Winter.

Summer:

Fall:

Winter: (I know, this one is rather bland... but I couldn't find many Winter ones...)

So. There they are.

(And aren't you all amazed that I finally posted?) :p

Many Things

2009-08-03T22:27:00.002-05:00

Well... where to start? So much has been going on lately, or will be going on soon... I guess I'll start with this week.
Tomorrow night we are going to a Drama Practice for an Esther play that my brother is the director of. We'll hopefully be entering that into the Providential History Festival. I'm not sure if I'll have a part in the play yet--but my brother is open to the idea. ;-)
On Thursday we'll be going to the Nursing Home to play the piano and sing there for them. We try to do that somewhat often.
And throughout a day or two this week some of the boys and Dad might go to help the Blieks with their new house and moving it.
Next Sunday I have prelude before church: which reminds me that I should get that perfected as much as possible.
On the 21st of August our family is planning to go on vacation to Colorado, so we're all looking forward to that; being in the mountains, etc. :-)
Early September we'll probably be starting school, so we're working on getting all that ready. Figuring out what we'll be doing, etc.
Also early September is the Bible Bee thing... We'll see how that goes. On this subject: I have a lot of memorizing I should do.
I finished sewing a skirt last week, and am quite happy to be done; maybe I can post pictures later if anyone is interested.
Crocheting is on my list of things to learn, as is woodburning. So I have to take time for that soon.
Early October is the Providential History Festival--which I am very excited for! And the week after that we have a family reunion.
On the 16th of August, Jordon and Jessica will have been married for a year. :-) Though it somehow feels longer and shorter then that.
I'm wondering if Michael and I will get braces sometime soon... I guess we'll have to have an appointment to see about that. :P ;)
And then of course, there is daily life, daily activities, etc. Sanctifying, growing Spiritually, etc...
Our garden is producing abundantly! We picked a few dozen tomatoes this morning. Mom and I will probably make Tomato Juice sometime soon.
And I think that covers most of it.. Or at least, basic facts. :-) (Sorry for the rather boring post...)

Joy

2009-06-19T13:41:00.003-05:00

If one of my brothers is walking around the house smiling and looking happy, it seems as if there should be a "good reason", right? I mean, do people normally walk around with smiles on "just because"? A night or two ago I wasn't in the most joyous mood, and David walked in the kitchen smiling and whistling. "Hi Becky!" he says cheerfully. Mom was around as well, and after a few minutes I was almost as cheerful as David.

A day or two ago, David was working with Dad at an older woman's home. The woman told my Dad when David wasn't around, "He has such a wonderful smile! Kids don't smile like that anymore." And when Dad told David at the supper table, David replied "That's because many of them don't have hope." And how true it is.

(I just realized that in all these examples I use David. Oh well, that's ok. :) He's just the one that's been talking about it the most to me lately I suppose. Who knows.)

Another time, David was talking to me, and what he said really struck me. I mean, I knew it before, but it was a good reminder. Something I seem to forget so often.
He asked me, "What reason do we have not to be happy?" The point is not "Why are you so happy?" The point is "Why aren't you happy?" We have every reason to be full of joy! We have hope--a glorious hope of Salvation, and we should be living our lives for God. We're so downhearted sometimes--but why? I know that I at least am 'depressed' over such little things. When we put it into perspective, there is almost nothing in our little lives that is worth complaining about. (I'm not saying that it is wrong to be saddened over sin and such!) We have so many blessings, and so much to live for!

Psalm 5:11
But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You;
Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them;
Let those also who love Your name be joyful in You.

Psalm 43:5
Why are you cast down, O my soul?
And why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God!
For I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.

Answer to Elizabeth J's comment...

2009-06-08T16:10:00.002-05:00

Elizabeth J. wrote: "Great job! I really like the style of the piece. Would you mind telling us what the name of the piece is? I may try to find a copy of the arrangement. Thank you! =0"

Well... The piece doesn't really have a name-You see, I kind of... composed it. :) And I didn't give it a name. So... I do have the sheet music for it.
If you have a suggestion for how I could get it to you, please comment and tell me, or send me an email if you can. I don't know if it would be possible for me to scan the music, then send it to you and you could print it, but it might work. It's up to you. :)
But I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Video for Maria (and whoever wishes to view it)

2009-06-04T20:25:00.003-05:00

Alright, here is a video of my playing a song. I told Maria I would put it up, so... here it is! I hope it's good.
And I was looking at the sheet music, and some of it had me confused as well! I wasn't sure what to play at the last part, so I just did something that sounded OK.
I hope it helps!
~Rebecca

Just another picture...

2009-05-29T16:50:00.004-05:00

...of Kristina! :)

Some Pictures of Kristina Adelaide

2009-05-23T09:48:00.005-05:00

Her eyes are blue, even though none of these pictures show it. :)

Announcing my little Niece, Kristina Adelaide!

2009-05-22T14:56:00.003-05:00

Well, my niece has been born! Today, May 22, at 7:52 Am.
9 lbs, 5 oz, and 22 inches long!
Maybe in a month or two I will have a picture to put up. :-D

So we're all excited...

It's funny, she was just born and she already has 20 Aunts and Uncles.

Short Film: "Transgressor"

2009-05-16T17:39:00.003-05:00

Here is a 3 minute movie that my brothers made with some friends. I recommend that you watch it. ;-)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1J2kr6edW0

It's an allegory...

65 Random Things--Just because.

2009-05-09T19:34:00.007-05:00

1. How much sleep did you get last night?
-Hm. Around 8.

2. What color is your favorite hoodie?
-Dark navy blue.

3. Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?
- Last person I kissed was my brother, so yes, I would kiss him again. The last 3 people I kissed were all brothers. Usually they don't appreciate it much.

4. Do you plan outfits?
- Sometimes-- usually only on Saturdays for church the next day. Or else before an event like a wedding or something.

5. How are you feeling RIGHT now?
- Fine. A little... "nostalgic" if that's the right word. ;-)

6. Whats the closest thing to you that is red?
-A remote control with a red button. Or else red writing on a piece of paper. Or else a G.A.Henty book.

7. What was the last dream you remember having?
- Last night I dreamed that my brother and I went to the Pastor's house. But I had to drive 30 miles home to put my youngest brother to bed. Even though there were other people at home. :)

8. Did you meet anybody new today?
-Nope.

9. What are you craving right now?
- Nothing? I'm not craving food, if that's what this is supposed to mean... ;)

10. Do you floss?
-Yep, every night usually.

11. What comes to mind when I say cabbage?
- Coleslaw.

12. Are you emotional?
- Quite. Depends what happened.

13. Have you ever counted to 1,000?
- Yep, I think so. Or at least over 800.

14. Do you bite into your ice cream or just lick it?
- Lick it if it's in a cone. If it's on a spoon I stick it in my mouth, without touching my teeth. When I was younger I never could understand how my Dad could bite into his icecream. Turns out, when he was younger he was playing baseball, and someone accidentally hit him with the bat. OUCH. So his front teeth aren't real, even though they look like it. So THAT's why he could do it. And I couldnt. :) For some odd reason, I blow on my icecream before I stick it in my mouth.

15. Do you like your hair?
- Yeah.

16. Do you like yourself?
- Sometimes. Usually too much though.

17. Would you go out to eat with George W. Bush?
- I would give the chance to my brother David. Let him go out to eat...

18. What are you listening to right now?
- Footsteps, and some kind of humming somewhere, from the furnace room.

19. Are your parents strict?
- No, I wouldn't say that. Depends on your definition. They keep me safe. ;) Sometimes they don't allow me to do things I would like to do, but only when they have good reasons.

20. Would you go sky diving?
- I'm not really sure. That would be a new experience... Maybe.

21. Do you like cottage cheese?
- Sure.

22. Have you ever met a celebrity?
- Do Presidential Candidates count? Or some of the Duggar family?

23. Do you rent movies often?
- No, it's pretty rare. Usually there aren't a whole lot of good ones anyway.

24. Is there anything sparkly in the room you're in?
- It's pretty dark in here.

25. How many countries have you visited?
- 2. The U.S. and Canada.

26. Have you made a prank phone call?
- Nope. Well, once I called my Friend and (in a slightly lower voice) asked to speak to "so and so Brown" and she's like "What???" But other then that, not really.

27. Ever been on a train?
- Yep. But I don't remember it much.

28. Brown or white eggs?
- If they're not store-bought I like 'em better. But they can be either white or brown then. I guess brown.

29.Do you have a cell-phone?
- Nope.

30. Do you use chap stick?
- Nope.

31. Do you own a gun?
- Sadly no.

32. Can you use chop sticks?
- Depends on your definition. ;)

33. Who are you going to be with tonight?
- Family! Actually, probably bread and lunchmeat. I'll be making sandwiches.

34. Are you too forgiving?
- I don't think anyone can be too forgiving.

35. Are your nails painted?
- No. *laugh* and they rarely are.

36. What is your best friend(s) doing tomorrow?
- Going to church.

37. Ever had cream puffs?
- Um, I think so.

38. Last time you cried?
- I almost cried at the supper table for some odd reason. I guess I was kind of surprised when I heard that a friend was courting. I wasn't too surprised though, and I knew without asking who was courting her. But everyone else except Levi knew before me. Which wasn't why I was sad. I'm not sure why I WAS sad. I guess... I thought of everyone that was getting married/courting, and everything that was changing. But change is good! *Ahem. The RIGHT kind of change.*

39. What was the last question you asked?
- I'm not sure.

40. Favorite time of the year?
- Spring!

41. Do you have any tattoos?
- Uh---NO!

42. Are you sarcastic?
- No, almost NEVER! *I was joking there* I can be pretty sarcastic, but I try not to be sarcastic in a mean way, or anything.

43. Have you ever seen The Butterfly Effect?
- Um, I'm not 100% sure even what that is. *I'm sure I should* so.. no.

44. Ever walked into a wall?
- I think so. I've walked into a pole too. Which is harder to do. (it's skinnier) But I was walking backwards.

45. Favorite color?
- Brown. Then red, yellow, and blue. Then pink and green and purple. Then all the rest.

46. Have you ever slapped someone?
- Hm. Not on the face, definitely. I've slapped them in games, or in "high fives" if that counts. ;) I'm sure I've hit some of my brothers before. :( I can't remember the last time I did though. *which is a GOOD thing*

47. Is your hair curly?
- Nope. Not unless I braid it or something.

48. What was the last CD you bought?
- I've never bought a CD.

49. Do looks matter?
- Hm. Well, depends on your definition. ;-) I mean, somewhat. We shouldn't try to look sloppy, etc.

50. Are you angry at anyone right now?
- Nope.

51. Is your phone bill sky high?
- I don't have one...

52. Do you like your life right now?
- For the most part. But I should be content in everything.

53. Do you sleep with the TV on?
- Never. We rarely HAVE our TV on.

54. Can you handle the truth?
- What's that supposed to mean? ??

55. Do you have good vision?
- With or without my glasses? ;-)

56. Do you hate or dislike more than 3 people?
- I don't hate anyone I don't think.

57. How often do you talk on the phone?
- I used to talk on the phone about once a week. Now it will be a LOT less.

58. The last person you held hands with?
- Hm. I WONDER

59. What are you wearing?
- Capris, 2t-shirts, and a sweater-ish thing. ;)

60.What is your favorite animal?
- Not sure. Probably a kind of bird.

61. Where was your default picture taken?
- The one on the top right of my blog? I forget which one it is, but I'm pretty sure it was taken in our basement, if it's the one I'm thinking of.

62. Can you hula hoop?
- I haven't done that in a LONG time.

63. Do you have a job?
- Depends on your definition. ;) I have work.

64. What was the most recent thing you bought?
- I didn't really buy it, but mom bought some wood-plaques for me to possibly wood-burn on.

65. Have you ever crawled through a window?
- I can't really remember.

If you read this all, Congratulations!! You have amazing patience.

If you didn't read this all, I sure don't blame you.

I tag: whoever wants to be tagged, and Sarah Grace who requested that I tag her. :D

Giveaway at Jenna's Blog

2009-04-29T09:00:00.004-05:00

Jenna is hosting a giveaway, of a book. Find out more details at her blog, and the button to the right with the book cover on it.

http://femininefarmgirl.blogspot.com/

Tagged! Sorry it's kind of long, you don't have to read it...

2009-04-25T19:54:00.004-05:00

Tagged by http://bigsisofsev.blogspot.com/

What is your salad dressing of choice? Dorothy Lynch, or else home-made. (Which I haven't had for maybe 5 years...
What is your favorite sit-down restaurant? Maybe Perkins? Haven't been to a sit-down restaurant in a while!!
What food could you eat every day for two weeks and not get sick of? I can't think of any actually.. Maybe because I'm not hungry right now. :)
What are your pizza toppings of choice? Hm, we just had pizza for supper. I'd say cheese or 3-meat probably.
What do you like on your toast? Butter and cinnamon and sugar.
Chocolate or Vanilla? Depends on the form it's in. ;)

How many televisions are in your house? Just one.
What color cell phone do you have? Don't have one.
Do you have a laptop? Nope, but Seth does, and I use it.

Are you right-handed or left-handed? Right
Have you ever had anything removed from your body? Nope.
What is the last heavy item you lifted? Can't remember... Probably a 5-gallon bucket full of flour.
Have you ever been knocked unconscious? No, but I've fainted when I was sick. (Not as cool, I know) Just kidding.

How many pairs of flip-flops do you own? One.
Last time you had a run-in with the cops? Not me, but I've been in the car various times. (It wasn't our fault!) No wait... Maybe it was. ;-) Last time was probably when we got a new car and the cop was wondering why we didn't have license plates. So we didn't get in trouble--because it wasn't "illegal."
Last person you talked to on the phone? Julianna
Last person you hugged? Julianna, or else Dad and Mom goodnight.

FAVORITE
Season? Spring!
Holiday? Not sure, but maybe Christmas.
Day of the week? Sunday!
Month? Hm, I'm not sure, but probably April or May. :)

Missing someone? Yep.
Mood? Blank mind. ;-)
What are you listening to? Nathanael talking.
Watching? The screen.
Worrying about? Nothing

First place you went this morning? My room.
What's the last movie you saw? I think it was "Bolt"...
Do you smile often? Yes
Do you always answer your phone? When I'm the nearest one to it.
It's four in the morning and you get a text message, who is it? Probably someone having an emergency. Or something.
If you could change your eye color what would it be? Probably wouldn't change it.
What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic? I don't think I've ever been there...
Do you own a digital camera? 1/4th of it!! :D
Have you ever had a pet fish? We used to have goldfish--but they all died. Mysteriously. And not of old age I don't think.
Favorite Christmas song(s)? What Child is this? possibly... But more.
What's on your wish list for your birthday? A violin and violin lessons. But that's... kind of.... doubtful. (VERY doubtful...) And my birthday isn't for... 10 months maybe?
Can you do push-ups? Yes, but not a LOT.
Can you do a chin up? Yes, but barely.
Does the future make you more nervous or excited? Kinda nervous, but mostly excited.
Do you have any saved texts? No, but I have saved emails... Same thing? Not really I guess. And I usually save all my emails.
Ever been in a car wreck? Nope.
Do you have an accent? Well, so says my friend's brother. But otherwise.. not really.
What was the last song to make you cry? Song from a soundtrack? And it wasn't the song that made me cry, just thinking while it was playing.
Plans tonight? Write. Scrub the shower.
Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom? No...
Have you ever been given roses? One. And it was a left-over. ;-)
Current hate right now? ??
Met someone who changed your life? Lots of people "change" my life and influence me I suppose...
How did you bring in the new year? Counting down the seconds with a group of people from church.
What song represents you? ??
Would you go back in time if you were given a chance? It's impossible, but I suppose if it was, yes. If I could get back that is...
Have you ever dated someone longer than a year? I don't date.
Do you have any tattoos/piercings? Ears are pierced.
What songs do you sing in the shower? Don't sing a whole lot, but sometimes, and random ones, not always the same.
Ever had someone sing to you? Happy birthday!
Do you like to cuddle? Uh--I suppose so.
How fast can you run? Not extremely fast. Am I supposed to time myself?
Have you held hands with anyone today? No. Not today.
Who was the last person you took a picture of? Julianna
What kind of music did you sing in elementary school? What IS elementary school?
Are most of the friends in your life new or old? New. (As in the past 3 years.)
Do you like pulpy orange juice? It's fine.
What is something your friends make fun of you for? They joke around, but never really "make fun" meanly. Sometimes the way I pronounce words like "Philistine" "Babel" "Habakkuk" "Bag" "Egg" etc...
Have you ever ridden a elephant? Nope.
Do you like to play Scrabble? Depends who I'm playing it with. ;-)
What are you saving your money up for right now? The FUTURE! :-O
When is the last time you ate peanut butter & jelly? Maybe Tuesday??
What were you doing at 12am this morning? Sleeping or writing. But I'm pretty sure I was sleeping by then.
What was the first thing you thought when you woke up? "Was that the bell?"
(We ring a bell for breakfast)

Finished!

2009-04-25T19:11:00.002-05:00

Well, I finished a dress I was sewing! It's a summer dress, as you can probably tell. Here's some pictures of the material and the finished dress.
Sorry about the messy closet!
(Oh, and I know this is a rather random comment to add: but my hair is a lot longer then it looks, I just had it up.) ;-)
So, I sewed most of that dress last December, but then I had the hem left, and I didn't finish it until today. I suppose because I couldn't wear it in the winter anyway, so I just waited until I could.

So... that's about it!

My Brother Has a Hard Head.

2009-04-11T21:33:00.002-05:00

So-- I forgot to write about this earlier actually.
Last Sunday the roads were pretty icy, since we got some snow/slush, and 4 of my brothers were leaving for church slightly early. (Seth, David, Michael, and Joseph)
Well, as they rounded a bend, the car went out of control, and slid into a shallow ditch. No one was hurt, though the car was totaled. (They hit a culvert, and the bottom of the car was somewhat wrecked.)
David says he doesn't remember it, but his head hit the window rather hard, and left it's mark. He never even got a headache though, or side effects.
But we're thankful everyone is safe.

So, there's our excitement for the week.

Why is "Easter" called what it is?

2009-04-10T09:01:00.003-05:00

Many of you may already know this, I'm just going to post a couple articles here. I never knew the origin of the name until about 3 years ago.
So anyway, since Resurrection Sunday (sometimes known as "Easter") is coming up, I thought I'd put down a little info...

The truth about Easter
Posted: March 23, 2009

By Richard Rives
© 2009

The renowned Oxford English Dictionary informs us that the name "Easter" is derived from the name of a goddess whose festival was celebrated at the time of the vernal equinox. We are told that she was originally known as the dawn goddess – no doubt the origin of sunrise celebrations at the time of Easter.

According to Venerable Bede, a seventh century Anglo Saxon theologian, the English word "Easter" is derived from the name of the pagan fertility goddess Eostra. He tells us that "the heathen Anglo-Saxons called the fourth month "Esturmonath" after their goddess Eostra – another name representing the spring fertility goddesses such as Astarte or Ashtaroth, the goddess who was introduced into the British Isles by the Druids. In all actuality, Easter is just another name for Beltis or Ishtar of the ancient Babylonians and can be traced all the way back to Hathor, the cow goddess of Egypt that was associated with the building of the golden calf at Mount Sinai.

Easter has nothing to do with Jesus and everything to do with pagan abominations condemned by the Bible. We have a powerful adversary that wants us to involve ourselves with the worship of other gods and thereby break the commandments of our Creator. Even King Solomon, whom God had given "exceeding wisdom," was taken in by the worship of the fertility goddess. His wives turned away his heart after other gods, and he worshipped Ashtoreth, the pagan fertility goddess identical to Easter.

One important consideration that is a direct connection between fertility worship and traditional Christianity is Easter Eggs – eggs being an undeniable symbol of fertility. The art of decorating eggs dates back to the spring rituals of pagan sun worship thousands of years before the time of Christ. The spring fertility goddess, by whatever name, was thought to have turned a bird into a hare: thus the Easter Bunny laying eggs. No, Easter eggs have nothing to do with Jesus and everything to do with the ancient goddesses and their symbols of spring fertility.

So, how did a pagan festival come to be recognized by most as a Christian observance? The 5th century theologian Socrates tells us that "the celebration of the feast of Easter began everywhere more of custom than by any commandment either of Christ or the Apostle."

Interesting, eh? Here's more from a different site:

Where does the name "Easter" come from?

The name of the Christian celebration of Easter originally comes from Ancient Egypt. The worship of Astarte, the Phoenician name for Egypt's goddess of fertility, in time spread throughout Europe. "Ostara" became the Old English word for this now Anglo-Saxon goddess. During the 2nd century, early Christians attempting to convert pagan worshippers called their Christian celebration "Ostara" which later became "Easter."

So pretty much, all sources say that the name "Easter" comes from a pagan goddess, and has nothing to do with Christianity or Scripture--"Easter" is made into a holiday where people search for plastic eggs and eat chocolate.

Today

2009-04-10T08:51:00.000-05:00

Well, sorry about the boring title of this post, I didn't know what else to call it. I haven't written much lately, but I couldn't think of anything exciting enough. :)
So this morning around 11:00 I have to be at a Nursing Home, and I'm not sure how it's all going to work out, or if there will be other people playing as well, but I do know that I will be playing a piano arrangement of "Via Dolorosa" and also I will be singing "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross". So I guess we'll see how that will go. :) Even if I mess up (which of course, I try not to) the people there will love it anyway. I like being in nursing homes. The people there are so appreciative whatever you do, and always love it. I like to see them smile. :)
So--maybe later I can post me playing "Via Dolorosa" on the piano, but I don't know if it will work... I have it on the other computer right now anyway.

"Count the Cost" and others.

2009-03-23T13:14:00.005-05:00

A great video here, one of my favorite songs by Ben.
Ben Lueders is a musician that is a member of our church-I suggest you check out some of his music, it's very good!

Count the Cost:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZmBiDC1S4Q&feature=channel_page
Very good lyrics.

His site:
http://benlueders.com/music/

I especially like "Come Follow Me", and "These Tears"

Here's the blog you can also check out, and while you're there, you can watch the "Martin Luther Musical" that two of my brothers are in. (The Pope costume he said was made by me, but mom helped as well. :D) http://benlueders.com/blog/

My brother has been uploading Ben's videos to YouTube; I figured I'd just write a quick note here. :) But anyway, please comment and tell me what you thought of it!

Psalm 30

2009-03-11T22:00:00.002-05:00

I just recently memorized this Psalm. I'll see if I can remember it all. :)

Psalm 30
I will extol you oh Lord, for you have lifted me up and have not let my foes rejoice over me.
I cried out to you oh Lord, and you healed me.
You brought my soul out of the grave, You have kept me alive that I might not go down to the pit.
For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life.
Weeping may endure for a night, but Joy comes in the morning.
In my prosperity I said "I shall never be moved."
Lord by your favor you have made my mountain stand strong.
You hid your face and I was troubled.
I cried out to the Lord and to the Lord I made my supplication.
What profit is there in my blood when I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise You, will it declare Your truth?
Hear oh Lord, and have mercy on me! Lord, be my Helper!
For you have turned my mourning into dancing. You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness.
To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent.
Oh Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever!

Happy Birthday!

2009-02-27T16:46:00.007-06:00

Sorry I haven't posted for a while.
But anyways, yesterday (Feb. 26) was my youngest brother Nathanael's 4th birthday. :)
4 ways he is a blessing:
1. If I'm sad or feeling kind of depressed, he is always there to comfort me and put a smile on my face. (Although I shouldn't be feeling down in the first place most of the time.)
2. He is (Most of the time) willing to help, (even if it doesn't really help a lot) and he enjoys doing that.
3. He's extremely funny sometimes, and makes me laugh and smile. (As said earlier?)
4. Nathanael is also very fun to play with, and we have a lot of fun with him, though sometimes at his expense since he is quite ticklish.
Happy birthday Nathanael, I love you!
(Oh, and the picture is pretty old, at least a year, but possibly more)

Well, I'm 14 now. And it feels no different. :-)

2009-02-09T10:10:00.003-06:00

I suppose I don't have anything "new" or "inspiring" to say... But here is a poem that kind of summarizes my goal in life.
(Oh, and I didn't write it)

"Only One Life"

Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life's busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in 'that day' my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgment seat;
Only one life,'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, And to God's holy will to cleave;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its clays I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true what e'er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, "twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say,"Thy will be done";
And when at last I'll hear the call, I know I'll say "twas worth it all";
Only one life,'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.
~Anonymous

Please Pray

2009-02-02T19:42:00.003-06:00

A friend of ours from church knows this couple. I never met them, but please pray.
Here's a news article:
By CINDY LANGE-KUBICK / Lincoln Journal Star
Sunday, Feb 01, 2009 - 10:11:52 pm CST

The photographs on their Web site show an outdoorsy couple. Alaina and Josh Beasley on a tandem bike. Alaina and Josh snorkeling on their honeymoon.
Smiling in the snow.

The Omaha-area couple were married Nov. 1, 2008, and moved to Lincoln.

Alaina Beasley, 20, died early Sunday after an apparent accidental shooting.

She was shot in the chest shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday at the Fountain Glen apartment complex, 6230 N.W. Second Circle in the Highlands, and died four hours later at BryanLGH Medical Center West.

Joshua Beasley, 21, was handling a shotgun when it fired, said Lincoln Police Capt. David Beggs.

No further information on the shooting was available Sunday night and no charges had been filed.

“He loved her greatly,” said Bryan DeWilde, a longtime friend of Joshua Beasley’s.

DeWilde met Alaina through Josh. They were an incredible couple, he said, and their families are suffering.

“God is in control, but that doesn’t make it any easier at the present time.”

Jobs brought the couple to Lincoln, he said.

The two met through a basketball league for home-schooled students, according to their wedding Web site. Instead of dating, they describe an old-fashioned courtship.

“We are a Christian couple striving to live a life that glorifies our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” they wrote.

Alaina grew up in an Air Force family and lived in England and Japan before settling in Omaha in 2005. She is survived by her parents and two younger siblings.

Last week, she posted a blog entry describing their recent purchase of two guns, a handgun and a 12-gauge shotgun.

“Josh and I practice clearing the apartment in case an intruder were to come we have a plan of action in place,” she wrote.

The entry also describes weekly outings to an indoor practice range and practicing gun safety.

Beggs declined to elaborate on the circumstances of the shooting, as did the couple’s friend.

“Tell people just to pray for Josh and both sets of parents,”said DeWilde.

“Obviously, it’s a terrible loss and a terrible tragedy. That’s the best thing people can do is pray for them.”

So pretty much from what I understand, Josh and Alaina went shooting, then Josh was cleaning his gun and it went off.

I can't imagine how terrible that must be. Knowing that you were the cause of your wife's death, even if accidental. Please keep the family in your prayers.
Thank you!

Tagged

2009-01-31T19:14:00.008-06:00

I actually just did this, but I'll do it again. :)
Thank you, Rachel! :) (http://rayshopejourney.blogspot.com/)

A book I read:

Sherlock Holmes

A moment I will always remember:

The Reformation Day celebration I guess. :)

A new skill I acquired:

Well, I finally FINISHED a cross-stitch project. Not the one in the picture. That one Jessica did. Mine was a lot smaller. :D

A movie I watched:

Ratatouille

A lesson I learned:
Still learning.. So much yet to learn. Always will be.

A new place I visited this year:

Branson, MO for an Answers in Genesis Congerence

An inspiring verse or quote:

Well, here's a good one, and also here's one by Stonewall Jackson.
"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me." He added, after a pause, looking me full in the face: "That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave"

Here are the rules:

1. Fill in your memories of 2008
2. Link my blog to yours
3. Tag others and comment on their blog so they know they've been tagged:)

I tag... Hannah Jane
Stephen G
And.. That's about everyone I can think of that hasn't already done it...

...

2009-01-31T09:44:00.003-06:00

Thank you Hannah! (Walking in Grace)

Here are the rules:
Thank the person who awarded you, and then award 10 people and link their blog to their name. Then tell the person they received an award.

Well, I'm not sure how to link the name and the blog together, but I'll do the name, and the blog below that.

Jenna
http://my-strength-and-song.blogspot.com/

Rachel
http://rayshopejourney.blogspot.com/

David
http://biblicallaw-dcccfc.blogspot.com/
(I hope you don't mind I'm giving you this, since after all, you're a boy) ;)

Tierney
http://rabid-poet.blogspot.com/

Hannah Jane
http://walkingingrace-hannah.blogspot.com/
Even though Hannah just received it...

Jessica
http://jessica-flyingfrog.blogspot.com/

Is 6 people enough? I'm running out. ;)

Just Something...

2009-01-27T18:35:00.010-06:00

I wasn't tagged, but I found this "survey" on this website: http://aspiring-homemaker.blogspot.com/
It looked interesting, so I decided to do it. :)

The rules:
1. Fill in your memories of 2008
2. Link my blog to yours
3. Tag others and comment on their blogs so they know they've been tagged
~
Memories from 2008

A good book I read-

The War Between the States; America's Uncivil War.
I'm actually still reading this. It's a history book, and really good, I think. ;)

A great film/movie I watched-

I thought this was a great movie. Very funny, just like all the HeuMoore films I've seen... And good of course. Much improved from last year's "Heartstrings", though I enjoyed that too of course.

A new place I visted-

We visited the Alamo for the first time, and along with the San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival...

An inspiring verse or quote I read-

"Only one life, and soon it's past.
Only what's done for Christ shall last."
I'm not sure who said that...
~
A discovery I made-

I'm pretty sure I learned to knit this past year... Maybe a bit before that. But it should have been sooner! (Not really a discovery, but oh well.)
~
A new skill I aquired-

How EXACTLY to bake bread, and how to cut up a chicken. Again, I should have learned this before now... But at least I know it now!
~
A lesson I learned-
Hm, I'm still learning of course. I suppose I try to be really humble, etc. One of my friends tells me that it's annoying to give me any compliments, because I just shrug them off. I suppose that's because I don't want to even seem proud, but of course, that is probably pride right there. (Wanting others to think the best...) *sigh*
~
A moment I will always remember-
The ones I'm thinking of have to do with: Hair. Reformation Day. And others.

"Take your pick."

(Sorry if that doesn't make sense to you.)

A Martin Luther Musical

2009-01-24T15:45:00.002-06:00

http://vimeo.com/2740112?pg=embed&sec=2740112

Copy and paste the link to watch a Martin Luther musical that my brothers Seth and David were in. :D
Music by Ben Lueders: http://benlueders.com/blog/

Enjoy!

Our Little Red Metro

2009-01-20T22:29:00.002-06:00

Our little red metro has lasted us a long time, but I'm not sure if it will keep up much longer.
We started out driving to a sermon-discussion group about 30 minutes away. As we drove up a hill in town though, the engine died on us, and Seth (my favorite oldest brother) expertly turned into a side street and the car came to a stop. We hopped out, except Seth, and David and Michael pushed it into a parking space. Very providential and convenient. :) Then Seth called Dad and told them where we were, and in a few minutes Dad and Mom pulled up behind us. We had the 4 person car, and they had the 6 person car, and again it was providential that the 4 person car hadn't been the only working one. It would have been pretty tough to fit 10 people in it. Make that extremely difficult.
So as you have probably gathered, we squashed 10 people in the 6 person car, and hoped we didn't meet a cop.
We did. Very thankfully though, it was at night, the windows were foggy, and the police wasn't extremely intent on finding something wrong, so we drove past.
After the Bible study/small group discussion, we all drove back to the Metro. (Again we drove by a cop, and all the little ones ducked down.)
Seth fiddled around with some fuses and started the engine again, and it worked! We got out of the city before the car stopped again, this time on the interstate.
SOOOO, Dad and Mom pushed our car home with their car, Seth just steered and used the brakes. It was certainly an interesting experience.
About 15 minutes from home, we heard this rattling sound. Turns out that the license plate had come off of their car, so we steered to the side of the road as they went back and found it. It was broken, but they figured it had been broken before it fell, and that's the reason it came off.
So we pulled in our driveway, rolled to a stop and exited the car once more.

That car kind of needs to be fixed.

But things could have been much worse, and everything worked out well. Our beds were still where we left them, and everyone was extremely thankful for that.

San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival

2009-01-20T16:24:00.006-06:00

Here are a few pictures from the SAICFF that Dad, Seth, David, Michael, and I went to in early Jan.
Edit: This picture won't show. Maybe I can upload some more later. Doug Phillips and Stephen Kendrick (producer of Flywheel, Facing the Giants, and Fireproof)

The Crew from The Widow's Might, a film by HeuMoore productions, which won the $101,000 grand prize award. Actually, the largest award ever given in a film festival, I think.

Dad and I by the Alamo.

A Few Goals for 2009

2009-01-02T15:03:00.002-06:00

Tagged by: http://asoldieroftheking.blogspot.com/
In not any particular order....

I. To sanctify. That will always be a goal.

II. To excel in sewing, various musical things, and other handy things I can use in my later life.

III. To memorize a lot more of the Bible.

IV. I know there won't be much political stuff going on this year, but supporting the good candidates at least.

V. Maybe learn more of a language... I've always thought it would be neat to learn Dutch or Hebrew or Spanish or Sign Language (which would be easiest probably) or pretty much ANY other language. But I only know a few words of a few languages.

VI. Who knows... Become the best gun shooter in IA? That'd be kind of fun.. VERY doubtful. :)

VII. Crucify the flesh.

VIII. Finish 9th grade. I'm running out of things I can think of at the moment. I'm obviously going to finish 9th grade unless something drastic happens.

IX. To read a LOT more of non-fiction, history, and good books. Learn a ton. And not forget it.

X. Learn to be humble. Pride is the root of a lot of sins. But this is kind of the same catagory as 1 and 7.

I won't tag anyone, but feel free to post goals if you'd like.

Baking, Baking, Baking

2008-12-12T15:17:00.001-06:00

Just for your information, in the past 2 or so days we've made:

Chocolate Almond Bark covered pretzels
White Almond Bark covered pretzels
Sweet Potato Pie
Pecan Bars
Peanut Blossom Cookies
Regular Frosted Cut-out Cookies
Puppy Chow

Wasn't that interesting...

"Tagged" by Hannah...

2008-12-12T14:57:00.002-06:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Probably wrapping paper. But we run out of boxes too.

2. Real or fake tree? We've always done fake-Real trees are outrageous in pricing, we've been using the same fake one for probably 20 years or something.

3. When do you put up a tree? Normally the day after Thanksgiving, but this year we did it the day before.

4. When do you take it down? Maybe around New years day or something.

5. Do you like eggnog? I don't think I ever had it.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? I don't know. We've had some pretty fun gifts.

7. Hardest person to buy for? Either Dad and Mom, or my 3 older brothers!

8. Easiest person to buy for? The little boys.

9. Do you have a nativity scene? Small, on top of the piano.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail, if I send any.

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Probably clothes. Not all clothes, but this one.. I think some type of turtleneck.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? I haven't seen any other then "It's a Wonderful Life" as far as I can remember. That ones pretty good. :)

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? If I shop, it's usually at second-hand stores. Probably in December, later then I would like. :D

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? No?

15. Favourite thing to eat at Christmas? I have no idea. Everything's really good... Especially Sweet Potato Pie though. I don't really like stuffing.

16. Lights on the tree? Yeah! Looks slightly gloomy without it.

17. Favourite Christmas song? O Holy Night, Angels we have Heard on High, What Child is This?, O come o come Emmanuel.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Maybe one. Rudolph?

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel

21. Open presents on Christmas Eve or morning? Sometime on Christmas day.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Santa Claus. Clause. However you spell it.

23. Favourite Ornament theme or color? Just the ones we've had since I was little.

24. Favourite for Christmas dinner? Anything but stuffing?

25. Favourite Decorations? I like pine branches, and berries or something.

26. What do you want for Christmas this year? I can't think of anything. At least, nothing anyone will give me. :D

Interesting

2008-12-09T14:12:00.002-06:00

America (And pretty much all the world) is really messed up.

"The world is being polluted by fumes, wastes, and oils, but not by the sins we commit every day."

"Save the trees and animals, but kill the children."

Plus, REAL marriage between 1 man and 1 woman is not upheld.

Why are Christians sitting by watching?

An "Article" I Wrote in 2007 or so

2008-12-01T21:02:00.002-06:00

Are We Brought This Low?
How would you feel in a country, state, city, or neighborhood that went out and murdered thousands of children each and every day? Or if you knew that there was a “doctor” in your own town who killed helpless children?
Worldwide, per day, the United States kills approximately 3,700 children. In the year 1996, 1.37 million babies were aborted. How can this be happening? How can our country, who calls itself Christian, be killing off our own children? It’s unreal. My mind cannot grasp the knowledge, it seems like a dream, and the numbers are almost beyond comprehension. Some Americans today don’t even realize what is going on in their own state. Worldwide, the lifetime average is about 1 abortion per woman.
“I will neither prescribe nor administer a lethal dose of medicine to any patient even if asked nor counsel any such thing nor perform the utmost respect for every human life from fertilization to natural death and reject abortion that deliberately takes a unique human life.” Says the Hippocratic Oath, taken by all doctors and nurses before practicing medicine.
This has to stop! Each and every day it keeps on going, and the numbers grow all the time.
Statistics for the United States:
Information from http://www.abortiontv.com/Misc/AbortionStatistics.htm#United%20States%A0%A0%A0%A0%A0%A0%A0

Number of Abortions Performed in the United States
AGI - Alan Guttmacher Institute (Planned Parenthood)CDC - Centers for Disease ControlNRLC - National Right To Life CommitteeCIRTL - Central Illinois Right To Life
(AGI) (CDC)
1973 744,600 615,831
1974 898,600 763,476
1975 1,034,200 854,853
1976 1,179,300 988,267
1977 1,316,700 1,079,430
1978 1,409,600 1,157,776
1979 1,497,700 1,251,921
1980 1,553,900 1,297,606
1981 1,577,300 1,300,760
1982 1,573,900 1,303,980
1983 1,575,000 1,268,987
1984 1,577,200 1,333,521
1985 1,588,600 1,328,570
1986 1,574,000 1,328,112
1987 1,559,100 1,353,671
1988 1,590,800 1,371,285
1989 1,566,900 1,396,658
1990 1,608,600 1,429,577
1991 1,556,500 1,388,937
1992 1,528,900 1.359,145
1993 1,500,000 1,330,414
1994 1,431,000 1,267,415
1995 1,363,690 1,210,883
1996 1,365,730 1,221,585
1997 1,365,730 1,186,039
1998 1,365,730 884,273*
1999 1,365,730 861,789*
2000 1,312,990 857,475**
2001 1,303,000& 853,485**
2002 1,293,000&2003 1,293,000&&
2004 1,293,000

&&&AGI estimate&&NRLC base figure*excludes NH, CA, AK, OK**excludes NH, CA, AK · 40+ MILLION ABORTIONS SINCE 1973· 4,000 each day

Source:AGI - Alan Guttmacher Institute (Planned Parenthood)CDC - Centers for Disease ControlNRLC - National Right To Life CommitteeCIRTL - Central Illinois Right To Life

Some of the information may be off some, I don't remember much of what I looked up etc, but I read now that doctor's don't take the Hippocratic Oath always anymore.
I also read somewhere that the average per day world-wide number of babies killed is 120,000.
And that is a number beyond my comprehension.

Dykstra Family News

2008-12-01T20:43:00.002-06:00

This was written when I was 11 or something...

DYKSTRA FAMILY NEWS
Dad’s work is going well. He is painting some. The family doesn’t see him much, just at morning and evenings, but I guess that is better then some families who only see their Dad’s once in a while because of their jobs.
Mom is sort of sick but is feeling a little better. She had a fever and a headache but now her headache is gone and her fever has gone down. Right now she is reading a book called “Escape” to Daniel.
Jessica is in Northwest Iowa right now with David, who had an orthodontist appointment. They will be back tomorrow. Jessica has just gotten over the sickness that Mom has. Jessica likes it when David has orthodontist appointments because that means she will probably get to see her friend, Tierney Erwin.
Seth is also sick right now. He is keeping busy with school and the computer.
David, as I said, is in Northwest Iowa. He just got over the sickness too and he likes to tell us all about the Civil War during dinner.
Michael is just getting over being sick, a second time. We just got finished playing a card game with him, mom, and Joe. I don’t know who won.
I am pretty much over my sickness. Today I have been keeping busy doing school, Playing with Nathanael, and reading.
Joseph is feeling better I think also. He is making some kind of airplane with paper right now. I don’t know how well it will fly.
Levi said he was sick… He might have been but he sure ran fast for a sick person… and jumped around a lot too. But if he was sick (I think he had a fever…) then he is feeling better too.
Daniel was just playing cards with Nathanael, not a real game though. Its nice to see them playing together.
Nathanael I hope will not get sick… he is always wanting to be playing with someone which is sometimes nice…
Overall this week, the news is that we were sick… and are feeling better.
Births or birthdays lately: none
Deaths: None
Sicknesses: Flu
Special Events (coming up or past): we were planning to go to Denekas Small Group yesterday but didn’t because we were sick and because the wind was really strong. L Also this week Friday and Saturday we have a family reunion. That’s all.
Writer and Editor: Rebecca Dykstra Tuesday, 1/16/07
January 16, 2007

ARTICAL 2
Dad is wondering sort of, if he should do landscaping… he doesn’t know though. There is a place where he could do it. I don’t know if he is considering it or not.
Mom is teaching the little boys school right now. No one is sick or anything.
Jessica is in her room, practicing guitar, and Seth and David are doing school, and Michael is doing the same.
I just finished a report for school on “Serious things that have happened to me.” I couldn’t think of very many, but I couldn’t think of ANY hilarious things that had happened to me, except maybe that one time we were at a campground and this boy asked if Joe and I “loved each other.” I said, “Of course, we are brother and sister.” Then he rolled his eyes. I thought it was pretty funny. LOL.
Back to the article- Joseph, Levi, and Daniel are also doing school. Nathanael is with mom. That’s all.
Births or birthdays lately: Mine is tomorrow
Deaths: None
Sicknesses: None
Special Events: (past or coming up) on February 2, we had a girl’s sleepover at the Denekas’. That was fun! On February 17 there is a Girls Valentine Party at the Swab’s but I do not know if we are going.
Writer and Editor: Rebecca Dykstra Wednesday, February 07, 2007

Some sort of Life's Story I wrote Some time Ago

2008-12-01T20:42:00.001-06:00

Rebecca Dykstra: My Life’s Outline

My name is Rebecca Mae Dykstra. I wasn’t named after anyone, my parents chose my name, probably because they liked it. And it was a Bible name. All of us children had Bible names except Jessica. And she was named after my Grandma Dykstra.
I was born on February 8, 1995. In a hospital in Sioux Falls. But I wasn’t paying very much attention to details back then, so I couldn’t tell you the name, unless I asked my mom.
I was the 6th one, and had 4 older brothers, and an older sister. She was the oldest of all of us, and was, and is, my only sister. As I mentioned earlier, her name is Jessica. Seth Owen comes next, and then Joshua Lee. But Joshua was still-born, and I never met him. David came after that. He was born during a bad blizzard, but they made it to the hospital in time. Michael is the brother just older then me, and the first one of us kids born at home. Then came me and Joseph, but we were both pre-mature, so we were born in hospitals. Levi was also born at home, as were the next, and last 2, Daniel and Nathanael. So that equals 10. Too bad there aren’t any more.
My grandparents on my Dad’s side were Clarence Dykstra, and Jessie (Mouw) Dykstra, who are both deceased. On my mom’s side, my grandparents are both still alive, and they are named Marvin De Jong, and Delores (Kuiper) De Jong. I don’t even know the names of all my great-grandparents.
I don’t know which family member is the most influential, I’d probably say Dad and Mom. Who else could it be? Of course, they are always there for me, and they guide me and help me.
I don’t have a lot of chores. Or at least, it seems that way, probably because I don’t always remember to do them all. I hope though, that mom doesn’t read this, because then she might give me more. Some of my responsibilities are: Making dinner, (lunch, as some people call it), and other miscellaneous chores, which are boring, and would bore you if I told you.
Our family celebrates birthdays together, and with our grandparents, and we give gifts. We do the same at Christmas-time, and on Thanksgiving we go to Orange City, and eat a lot of good food. We also sit around and wonder what to do. We always forget to bring games. Reformation Day is especially fun-we go to a Church friend’s house and have a bonfire, and do fun things. No wonder it’s fun. My favorite holiday is probably... Reformation Day.
I love family vacations! We’ve gone to at least 22 states, and usually it’s camping. One of my favorite vacations was to California, and a few of the states around it. I’ve also been to Canada, and that was another one of my favorite vacations.
My family is special—well, because we are Christians, and Homeschooled. And large too. What else do I say?
I have a lot of goals and ambitions. Too many to name.
The next section of the “outline guide” that I am following, is about school days. Well—if it says things like “friends” I’ll just do “Friends” not “School Friends.”
I have a lot of Friends! Most people say I’m very extrovert, but I’d say that’s only after I know them. Most of my friends are from our new church, but I have quite a few from “back home” and before that as well. How in depth am I supposed to go? The only teacher/s I’ve ever had our Dad and Mom, and well, in the least, they’re very—good!
My worst subjects in school are Math and Grammar, and the best are probably reading, writing, art, music, and things like that, which mostly are not really what I consider “School.” I enjoy History, and sometimes Biology and Science though.
The most special thing about school, is, of course, that we are homeschooled.
My goals and ambitions are: To get done with Grammar before August 16th, or at least before we start school again in September!
My hobbies are: Music, Writing, Reading, making crafts, Guitar, Piano, Baking, and other things. I really enjoy music, and I take piano and voice lessons, and am trying to teach myself some guitar. I’d say that my hobbies pretty much are my achievements. But I’d like to learn a lot more! I like a lot of things, and I also dislike a lot of things... As I asked before, how in depth am I supposed to go? I dislike Grammar.
My goals and ambitions: Learn archery, shooting, riding, bead-work, cross-stitch, crocheting, Dutch, Spanish, Latin, etc, Write more, Read more, learn more History, and to more extent, Excel in music, and other things. I also think it would be fun to learn violin and harp. And flute. And anything else there is to learn. ;)
The people I respect most are: My dad, Pastor Philip Kayser, and Pastor James Graveling. Those are just guys, but there are others too, but those are in my top 10, and of course, I’ll always say that my Dad is first.
The End?

The Speech I Wrote, But Never Gave

2008-12-01T19:38:00.001-06:00

Here is the speech I wrote for Jessica and Jordon's wedding (I was the maid of honor) but I never had to give it. (!!!!!!!!) (That means I'm happy) So here it is.

Well, I thought and thought... (and thought) and thought some more, about what to write, and finally I kind of came up with an idea. Well, Jessica actually did—She just told me to write about my perspective on things.
So here it goes, and I’ll try to make it... short.
I never met Jordon, really. I don’t remember a time where I noticed he existed, I just thought he had, well, always been there. I pretty much knew him as: “That guy who looks a little bit like Seth, and who makes a lot of odd faces.”...
I had no clue about anything going on between, well, “our families”, until one afternoon when he came over and Dad asked him questions all afternoon.
At first I only had a slight idea, and it seemed silly, but, well, what else could it be? Turned out I was right. Joseph told me that he thought Jordon was talking to Dad all afternoon about buying a new vehicle. Right.
I’ve really enjoyed, well, pretty much everything that went on, and a lot of the time on Friday’s I would think, “Oh good, Jordon’s coming tonight!”
Especially that night Joseph and I rigged up the front door with firecrackers. (Haha)
Jordon tried to get us back later, but I heard the plot before-hand. I didn’t tell Joe though, and pretended not to know, so I guess Jordon got a laugh out of that...
Later on, some of us guessed when the wedding would be... I guessed September, so I was a month off, but Seth was only late 10 days, and we used “August 26” as a code name for the wedding, when we were talking about it in front of the little boys, before they knew what was going on.
So, over all, it’s been fun watching everything, etc, and I’m very happy for you...both.
Jordon, you have my sympathies... No, I’m just kidding. :)
I hope you are both very happy, and that God will richly bless you.

It's almost December!

2008-11-30T16:58:00.003-06:00

Well, today is November thirty, and the last day of this month. Pretty soon it'll be December.
This morning as I was running out of the house to the car to head to church, I glanced out the window and noticed it had snowed.
This afternoon I spent quite pleasantly freezing my toes off, and now we're home again, with less snow then when we left this morning.
Question of the day:
What can be better then a cup of hot-chocolate-coffee-whipped-cream-vanilla-milk stuff on a snowy-almost-December day?
Probably lots of things.

Autumn Favorites

2008-11-10T21:15:00.003-06:00

1. Favorite Smell?
Apple Cider heating up, Fresh Apple Bread, but probably most of all just apples when we go to make apple juice in Minnesota.

2. Favorite Food? Squash, Pumpkin Pie, or Apple Pie

3. Favorite Color? Dark Red or Bright Yellow (Autumn leaves)

4. Favorite Drink? Cold Apple Cider, or coffee/hot chocolate.

5. Favorite Treat? Sweet Potato Pie!!!!!!

6. Favorite Place to go? In some woods with brilliant colored trees, or by some mountains or a cold stream.

7. Favorite Candy? None? Nothing that's really fall-ish..

8. Favorite Movie to watch? Nothing that's Fall/Autumn oriented... So to speak.

9. Favorite Clothing to wear? Long skirts or sweaters.. Depends what kind though.

10. Favorite Outdoor Activity? Walking, jumping on the trampoline (except we don't have one right now...)

11. Favorite Football Team? I have NO idea. I never have seen a football game..

12. Favorite Fall Holiday? Thanksgiving

13. Favorite Haunted place? (you know haunted means “frequently visited”?) Church. ;) Other then that... the stream or something by our place.

14. Favorite Food at Thanksgiving Dinner? Sweet Potato Pie!!

15. Favorite Pie? Sweet Potato, Apple, and Pumpkin. Warm of course.

16. Favorite Fall Hobby? Hm... Drinking coffee/hot chocolate? ;)

17. Favorite Fall Memory? Jumping in leaves or something...

18. Favorite Fall Sight? Leaves turning different colors

19. Overall Favorite thing about Fall? Um... Pretty much everything! :D (other then the pagan holiday on Oct. 31... ;) But I love Reformation Day! :D)

20. Overall Favorite Season? Spring. Yep, I know this is all about Fall, but... Spring. :D

Something Random... But isn't Everything I write?

2008-11-10T21:06:00.003-06:00

No one "tagged" me, but I got this off "Walking in Grace" which is linked on the left-hand of my page.

The Rules:
Link to the person who tagged you.
Post the rules on your blog.
Write Six Random Things about yourself.
“Tag” six-or-so other people at the bottom of your post.
Leave comments on their blogs, letting them know they have been tagged.
Let the person who tagged you know when you have written the post.

1. I dislike having long nails... Mostly because they break.
2. I like the South.
3. I have never been to Alaska... (Who has?)
4. I don't like Obama or McCain. (Not that I can vote anyway)
5. Spring is my favorite season.
6. This site is pretty pointless, since no one reads or knows about it except me...

I tag:
Anyone who would like to be tagged.

Whoopee!!!!!!

2008-11-10T21:00:00.003-06:00

I'm an aunt!
I'm an aunt!
I'm an aunt, aunt, aunt!
I'm an aunt!
I'm an aunt!
I'm an aunt, aunt, aunt!
I'm an aunt!
I'm an aunt!
I'm an aunt, aunt, aunt!
I'm an aunt!
I'm an aunt, aunt, aunt!
(Sing to the tune of William Tell Overture...)

Reformation Polka

2008-11-10T20:57:00.001-06:00

THE REFORMATION POLKA
by Richard Gebel
(sung to the tune of "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious")

When I was just ein junger Mann I studied canon law;
While Erfurt was a challenge, it was just to please my Pa.
Then came the storm, the lightning struck, I called upon Saint Anne,
I shaved my head, I took my vows, an Augustinian! Oh ...

Chorus:
Papal bulls, indulgences, and transubstantiation
Speak your mind against them and face excommunication!
Nail your theses to the door, let”s start a Reformation!
Papal bulls, indulgences, and transubstantiation!

When Tetzel came near Wittenberg, St. Peter’s profits soared,
I wrote a little notice for the All Saints’ Bull’tin board:
“You cannot purchase merits, for we’re justified by grace!
Here’s 95 more reasons, Brother Tetzel, in your face!” Oh ...

Chorus

They loved my tracts, adored my wit, all were exempleror;
The Pope, however, hauled me up before the Emperor.
“Are these your books? Do you recant?” King Charles, he did demand,
“I will not change me Diet, Sir, God help me here I stand” Oh...

Chorus

Duke Frederick took the Wise approach, responding to my words,
By knighting “George” as hostage in the Kingdom of the Birds.
Use Brother Martin’s model if the languages you seek,
Stay locked inside a castle with your Hebrew and your Greek! Oh...

Chorus

Let’s raise our steins and Concord Books while gathered in this place,
And spread the word that ‘catholic’ is spelled with lower case;
The Word remains unfettered when the Spirit gets his chance,
So come on, Katy, drop your lute, and join us in our dance! Oh...

Chorus

Autumn

2008-09-06T20:58:00.001-05:00

Autumn in Iowa
Crisp air
Bare Trees
Brisk wind
Violent breeze
Light frost
Cloudy days
Dry grass
Sun’s rays
Foggy mornings
Falling leaves
Brilliant colors
~Autumn~
-December 3, 2007

The Storm

2008-09-02T14:27:00.000-05:00

The Storm
-The wind whistles overhead
The rain pelts the ground
The lightning clashes, thunder roars
It is an awesome sound
-The fierce wind stings my face
My hair is blowing freely
Dark clouds moving above
This is a fantastic feeling
-Rain bathes my face
It covers me
Lightning strikes
I feel so free
-The thunder cries out
Declaring God’s glory
I feel alive
Joy surrounds me
-I feel like singing
I feel like shouting
I feel like running
I feel like laughing
-The lightning shows God’s Majesty
The thunder shows His Might
The rain shows God’s Greatness
Storms are a marvelous sight!
~
-Psalm 77:18: The Voice of Thy Thunder was in the Heaven;
The lightnings lighted the world;
The Earth trembled and shook.
*~*~*