Time & Change

The song on my blog ("River God" by Nicole Nordeman) has had me thinking more and more lately. I definitely see myself as a rough-edged rock that is beneath the awesome power and rushing river-like strength of the Father. I want Him to be able to notice that my edges are getting smoother as He flows over me day by day. There is one phrase Nicole sings that I have particularly focused on these past few days:

"I know that time brings change, and change takes time..."

That is so true.
Change is neither predictable, nor always comfortable--but necessary, in my opinion.
And it takes time.

Change has certainly become a household word here. We are shifting through so many thoughts and visions around that it sometimes leaves me dizzy. Behaviors, patterns, habits, dependencies...you name it, and it's changing.
That's ok though.
Change takes time.
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Time can also seem like an enemy of sorts.
Take Stellan's story for instance. *In case you aren't familiar with Stellan, he is the 5 month old baby fighting for his life as I type this--just go to www.mycharmingkids.net for all of the details*
I can't imagine the pain MckMama is going through right now as she watches her baby continue to stay in distress with a heart condition that's seemingly impossible to reverse.

Of course I know that it IS reversible, and that time is nothing to God.
But still, you can't help but feel so very sorry for Stellan's family as they are bound by time and in what seems an eternity of waiting for answers or healing.

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Time did bring about change for us, as I have already written about before. We changed our minds and decided to stay in this house, and I can't remember the last time I felt so free about something like this. I guess I didn't realize what a burden it was becoming over the past year.
This change took time, but I believe I'm much better of a person for going through it.
Not that I enjoyed the ride, but I find that it was a good learning experience. It didn't produce the kind of change I was originally hoping for, but I instead had a change of heart and mind.

Kind of like the changing of the seasons. It takes time to go from winter to summer, but it's well worth it once summer rolls around and I'm allowed to wear tank tops and flip flops every single day. :)

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My dear blog readers:
Can you pinpoint something in your life that has taken time to change, but was well worth it in the end?
Have you ever felt completely bound by time?
If so, please share with me. I enjoy reading your comments--comments about YOUR life and experiences. It brings me hope, for I know that I am not in this alone.

Mel

You Know It's Bad When...

...you wake up to a whiny dog (Charlie) who needs to go relieve himself outside, you attempt to open the back door to allow him to do so, and the door is frozen shut. So then you go to the front door to attempt the same action. Same result.
Sweet fancy moses.

The Blizzard Of 2009

So I know I've already posted once today, but I just had to add the pics of the blizzard going on outside:
No visibility beyond the yard...

It was so cold and blowing so hard!

Drifts forming in the back...

And it only got worse from there.

John was on shift today, so we kept ourselves busy with playing dress up, baby dolls, barbies, Ninendo DS, pretend, hide-and-go-seek, and much more. I did about 10 loads of laundry, changed all the sheets, and completely cleaned out the kitchen. I had no idea that I had that much junk in my cabinets!

It was nice, however, to not change out of jammies, put on makeup, or even worry about deodorant (haha). We spoiled ourselves with waffles, pizza, ice cream, and more.

And here are the 3 C's--confined to the house for 24hrs:

She didn't come out of this big fluffy dress ALL day!

And Caitlin hardly moved from this spot on the couch...

While Christian played the Nintendo DS on the other couch--in his underwear.

A Post With No Real Title

It is snowing like CRAZY in the panhandle of Texas today. I haven't seen something like this in years. The wind is gusting up to 50mph, it's completely white as far as the eye can see, and don't even get me started on how cold it is.
Brrrrr....
You know it's going to get bad when the weather man uses the word "blizzard" and AISD cancelled school the night BEFORE the storm arrived. Sheesh! When I hear that something like this is coming our way, I want to faint. After all, it was close to 70deg. here yesterday at 5pm. That's the panhandle for ya!

This nasty blizzard gives me a perfect excuse to sit in the recliner with a yummy cup of coffee and watch HGTV. I love getting inspired to try new design ideas in my home.

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Speaking of our home...

John and I made the decision yesterday to not continue with the selling/buying process. Although we had found another house that we really liked, we took the time to step back, re-evaluate, and come to the conclusion that moving just isn't the best option for us right now. We love this area/neighborhood, have put a lot of time and money into fixing up this house, and have plenty of space to meet our needs as a family of 5. We are truly blessed by what we have, and we never want to lose sight of that.

I am, however, going to spruce some things up around here. It's time to get out my decor again (family pics and whatnot), and I'm considering re-painting some rooms, just for added effect. I love redecorating, so it should be fun!

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I stumbled upon the world's best stain remover for carpet and upholstery yesterday. Here it is:

I found it at Home Depot (of all places). Recently, my darling little Caroline had squeezed an entire tube of pink lip gloss all over Caitlin's carpet by her dresser. We tried everything to get it out, but it wouldn't budge. Well---I tried FOLEX and it came out instantly! It also worked on an old gum stain in Caitlin's room, as well as a nice brown gun cleaning solution stain in our closet. I was amazed to say the least. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS!!

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Last but not least, we had the first 2 indoor soccer games this week for Caitlin and Christian. It was so fun to see them get out there and run their hearts out. Caitlin has played before so she had the rules and concepts down. She was great--and she even scored one! Christian, on the other hand, ran up and down the field like a madman, but he rarely ever got near the ball. I think he kicked at it a few times, but for the most part he was more concerned with talking to the little girls on his team and showing off for Momma, Daddy, and all of the grandparents. Silly boy! Their soccer season ends in May, so for the next few weeks we will be going to our fair share of games. I love it!

Mel

The Other Woman

Yes, it's true. John has another woman.
At first I felt jealous--then I reminded myself that she has some things to offer that I just don't.
I'm okay with that.

This is his other woman. She's a bit boxy if you ask me, but whatever.

I guess it's her V6 engine, oversized tires, and spunky personality that won him over.

:)

He spent his entire afternoon babying his sweet Ford Bronco II. He hasn't worked on her in over a year now, and her tires haven't felt the pavement in about that long. John got her inspected, registered, insured, and put back together (a new battery and some cables did the trick) in anticipation of driving her to work on his 1st day back on 24hr shifts.

His excitement just made me giggle. How is it that a man can love a vehicle like that? And why is it that men refer to them as females? Sheesh.
I can't complain too much I guess---after all, he did buy me a purse dog.


Mel

Praying For Stellan

As most of you know, I follow a blog called My Charming Kids (here's the link: www.mycharmingkids.net). MckMama is asking for prayer for 4mo old baby Stellan tonight. Go over to her blog to read about his current condition. Make sure you go all the way back to the beginning of this "episode."
Basically, this child's life is hanging in the balance. He needs prayer, and I'm asking you to join me in this. As a momma, my heart hurts for this family.

Mel

Make Me Babies?

Ok, so I found a link to a fun website called Make Me Babies (www.makemebabies.com). You basically upload a pic of you and your spouse and the website generates a pic of a child--supposedly what your offspring will look like. I decided to play around with it, just to see if it was at all accurate.
Let's just say I won't be posting the pics that resulted.
They weren't AT ALL like what my children look like--kind of scary looking if you really want my opinion.
I'm so thankful the Lord has better taste than a website! Haha

If you are curious as to how it works or what interesting results it gives, go check it out.

Mel

Brutally Honest

Hi.
My name is Melissa Haskell, and I....

~apparently have issues with self control. I could eat an entire dozen small cupcakes in one sitting.

~wish my children had manners 24/7, and I could juggle 99 things at one time.

~really hate underpinnings of all kinds (you know, bras and underwear?), and would burn them all if that was socially acceptable. Victoria's Secret might sue me. And my husband might disown me. *sigh*

~find myself asking questions that I already know the answers to--on a regular basis. Thank goodness it's mostly to John, and he doesn't ridicule me.

~desire to sell this house, even though it has served me well and is wonderful all the way around.

~used to find my self worth in what I was to other people, but by the grace of God am discovering that my identity is solely in Him. No matter what.

~hate admitting when I'm wrong. And it drives me nuts when my husband laughs at me when I'm in the middle of telling him just what I think about a situation (aka: verbal disagreement).

~ah-hem...spend waaaaaay too much time on this computer. I'm working on that, folks. Seriously.

~sincerely want peace at all times.

~would love a shoe collection like what my friend Bond has built up. It's amazing--believe me on this one.

~thinks Wonder Woman had everyone fooled.

Mel

Spring Break '09

Spring Break is not usually something we take full advantage of. John has had to work every day of it in the past years, and I normally don't feel like going anywhere. That changed this year!
Monday morning, as I was going to the gym, it hit me: Why don't we just get out of town?!? I knew John had some vacation time, so I called him up and convinced him to take a super-quick-but-super-fun trip to DFW. I had just enough time to finish the workout, go home and book a hotel room, take Basel to Animal Lodge, and pack everyone before leaving town at 6:45pm. It was so interesting to throw it together like that!
We arrived sometime around midnight, but were up and at 'em Tuesday mid-morning. John and I decided to go to downtown Dallas and see the Dallas World Aquarium. We had been told it was a cool place, and it WAS! The kids loved seeing all of the interesting animals--including an enormous alligator--and being up close and personal with sharks.

Wednesday, we went to Grapevine Mills Mall and shopped until we dropped. I love that place!! John even treated us to the Rainforest Cafe. I swear--they make the BEST desserts on the planet. I also ate calamari, which was a stretch for me to say the least. It was great to try new things though.

The one thing I didn't get to do that is always on the agenda was go to see Sheridan and her family. Unfortunately, our trip was too fast and furious to allow for it--but I hope to go back in the summer. We'll catch you then Sheri--PROMISE! :)

As much as I enjoy going on vacation, it's always good to be home and sleep in my own bed. I think we'll just hang out and enjoy the rest of John's time off (he did work today, but then he should be off for another 4 days).

Oh yeah---a teaser for next week:

I'm going to do something that's supposedly going to change my life. I'll take pictures of the process of course. And it's nothing huge, but apparently it's something I've needed to do for a very long time.

Curious?

Ha!
Come back next week (Tuesday night or Wednesday morning) to see!

Mel

Seriously?

Ok, so 2 things were moved around or cancelled here in the Haskell household.
First of all, John won't be going on shift until NEXT Wednesday. That means that we will get to have him home every evening for just one more week. While that's good in some ways, I know he was looking forward to the switch tomorrow morning. Again, not a bad thing, but just a bit annoying.
The 2nd thing---John's business trip to West Palm Beach, FL got cancelled.
Boo.
I was soooooo looking forward to lounging on the warm beach with no children to worry about, but I guess it wasn't meant to be.
At least not for now anyway.
I do have a birthday in the not-so-distant future. I'm wondering if I could squeeze a vacation out of him for that.
I DID recently get my purse dog (Basel) that I have been wanting for my birthday for like 5 years now.
Not sure if this is the time to push my luck.
Hmmm......

Mel

A New Path

I found the picture in the heading to be more than just something fun for springtime. Truly, we as a family are heading down a new path.
We have kept no secrets regarding our spiritual beliefs, and if yours differ from ours then that's perfectly fine. After all, we are not here to pass judgement and ask for the same respect in return.
These are definitely interesting times. Without going into unimportant details, let's just say our body of believers (church) has begun a new journey. The congregation may look a bit different tomorrow morning, but I believe the Spirit will flow freely--which is really all that matters to me and John.
I found a new love for violin playing when I began to use that talent for God's glory at our church. It's fullfilling and humbling all at once, and I love it! I have played with the worship team for over a year now, and I wholeheartedly enjoy it.
More than words can say, actually.
That being said, I am not sure how it's all going to work out now, but that's not for me to worry about. I will forever use my violin to worship--it doesn't matter how/when/where. It's not about a building, people, or earthly things anyway.

All things work together for the good of those who love the Lord...

Change to our body of believers was apparently inevitable, but not all together horrible. Yes, this path will look different. Yes, there will be some bumps along the way. I still believe, however, that peace will abound.

Peace Be Still...

As for the new path--John and I can't wait to see what lies ahead. Every time I look at the heading now, I will be encouraged. God loves us far more than we could ever imagine, and that makes the journey that much more exciting.

Just take it one step at a time...

Melissa

Change--Again

Change can be a very good thing---as in the change around here. John got the official word today that he is going back on shift as of Monday the 16th. He will be back on B shift (the original one he was on before becoming a day officer), so that's awesome. His schedule will be:
24hrs on
24hrs off
24hrs on
24hrs off
24hrs on
4 days off

I can handle that! It's been nice to have John home in the evenings, especially since having Caroline. I do, however, remember the days when we could sleep in and hang out---and it's nice to have someone to run errands with while the kids are at school/MDO.
Anyway, I'm excited for this change in his schedule. Even though I will be spending more nights alone, I'm grateful for it all.

One more thing: YAY for Spring Break!!! (I say that now, but wait until Wednesday of next week--my tune may change)

My Favorite Quote And A Pic

My favorite quote is this:

"Integrity is not a given factor in everyone’s life. It is a result of self-discipline, inner trust, and a decision to be relentlessly honest in all situations in our lives."
-John Maxwell

There are days I struggle with this kind of integrity. I run into situations that make me question myself and wonder just what in the world am I doing here on this earth? Anyway, I read this and it helps me to put all things back into perspective.

As promised--a pic:

I haven't had bangs in over 11 years--but it was time for a change. Thank you to Sarah W. for being a wonderful hair stylist and sweet friend (Sarah usually gets the run-around from me as to why I don't want a whole lot of change, but today she got to work her magic without any boundaries!).

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY!!

I can't believe it--my sweet little boy is 5 today!! Happy Birthday Christian--Momma and Daddy love you to pieces!
(I will post pics from his party later)

A Poem

There has been a poem that has come up at least 3 times in the last week. It has made me think about how I view the most precious times with my children. Let me explain...
Caroline is now 2yrs and 3mos old, and she STILL requests to be rocked at naptime and bedtime. While there are days that it drives me crazy, there are other days that I wouldn't give it up for anything. She is definitely her Daddy's girl, for I have heard that he was a die-hard rocker too. :)
Here's the poem:

Song for a Fifth Child

Mother, oh Mother, come shake out your cloth

empty the dustpan, poison the moth,

hang out the washing and butter the bread,

sew on a button and make up a bed.

Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?

She's up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.

Oh, I've grown shiftless as Little Boy Blue

(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

Dishes are waiting and bills are past due

(pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo).

The shopping's not done and there's nothing for stew

and out in the yard there's a hullabaloo

but I'm playing Kanga and this is my Roo.

Look! Aren't her eyes the most wonderful hue?

(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

The cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow,

for children grow up, as I've learned to my sorrow.

So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.

I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep.

by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton

I love to, just for a moment, pretend there is nothing else that needs to be done around here. There is no laundry calling my name, no puppies that need attention (or potty breaks), no worries, and no stresses of life. When it's just me and my babies--whether it be rocking Caroline to sleep, reading a book to Caitlin, or snuggling with Christian--that's the most precious time of my day.

Life can wait---babies don't keep.

Wordless Wednesday

Tellin' Ya Tuesday

Random Fact:

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the 1940's.
From the hair...

to the clothing...

to the makeup...

to the music...
Seriously, I wouldn't mind if it all came back in style. Some of it already has, I think.

Going Well

I know it's been a long time since I have truly blogged something...well...worth blogging about. Seriously folks, all is good. It's funny that I tell people all the time that I'm not a very busy person, but somehow I find myself running around like a chicken with my head cut off roughly 99.9% of the time. Hmmm.....
I haven't really had the energy or focus it takes to take a bunch of photos of the children. After all, that isn't exactly what I want to fill my blog with on a daily basis. Occassionally it's fine though (just to clarify). :)
John and I still have our house for sale, the 2 smaller C's are having a blast in Mother's Day Out, and Caitlin is doing an awesome job in school. We work out daily, participate in several life groups with our church friends, and spend time just being real with each other in our own living room.
The television has been off a lot more these days, books are being read more frequently, and the newest member of the family (my sweet Yorkie) is now ruling the roost.
I have been attempting to cook more often, the house has to stay clean 24/7 just in case someone wants to view it, and we are gearing up for birthdays, business trips, and much more.
Can any of you believe it's already March?!?
Goodness gracious.
Anyway, tomorrow is the dreaded TAKS test in all Texas schools. Seriously, I think children could get a lot more accomplished and fill their heads full with much more knowledge if they didn't have to worry about perfect scores on that darn test. It's frustrating for this momma to say the least.
Did I mention the Yorkie has taken over? Jeez, it's like trying to potty train 2 children at once--Caroline and the dog. I think he considers himself our 4th child.

Much love to you all, and I'm sure there will be plenty to write about in the coming weeks/months. Stay tuned...