Today, I walked with my older three children to our church, Eastminster Presbyterian Church. This weekend is our annual rummage sale, so after our schoolwork was completed, we walked over to help sort, move, stack, unload, and arrange all the goodies that people have donated for the sale. Then the kids picked out a few treats for themselves and bought them for pennies. I was proud of the diligent work the kids put forth.
On our walk over, we ran into our friend, Mr. Dorn at Home Depot. The boys watched him work his saw on an old pallet. After we finished our work, we visited Vento's Pizza, enjoyed a hot slice, and said "hello" to our friend, Shawn.
This is one of the things I love about living here. I love running into people we know and love. It is a delight to stop and chat with our friends and build relationships with our church family.
I also love living close enough to walk. We walk to church, to the library, to the pizza shop, to Goodwill, to Grandma's office, to the coffee shop, to piano lessons... We love getting out on a sunny day and going someplace interesting. This is one thing about the city I will remember with joy and one thing that I'm sure I'll miss dearly.
This has been a wonderful place for our family to live. Thank you, God, for such a wonderful experience.
(P.S. For those of you wondering, next week I'm planning on writing about the things I'm looking forward to in the country. I'm able to delight in many places!)
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
04/27/09
This morning when I came downstairs for my hour of solitude, I opened the back door to let a little fresh air in. Now that all the blighted buildings are gone from our corner, I can see the street with its passing cars. There weren't a ton of cars, but enough to make me think about all the different people going about their daily lives. Watching the cars, I started to reflect on those things I like most about city living. I often hear negative comments on city life, so I thought I'd share with you over the next week the things I have loved about our life in Pittsburgh.
One of the things I like most is having so many different types of people around. David and I enjoy company, and it is not uncommon for several people to drop by our house daily. My children have grown up expecting a variety of people at our door and our dinner table, people who happened by and were invited in to spend time with us or invited to join us for a meal. My children have had the privilege of knowing people young and old, black and white, rich and poor, and having entertained them all in home for all kinds of occasions.
This past week, my children were in our back yard playing with a few neighborhood kids. I called my brood inside for dinner, and as they came to the door, they pulled me aside to ask in a whispered voice, "Can we invite Rosie and VJ to join us for dinner?" At first, my internal reaction was, "Definitely not! Dad is out of town tonight, and I'm already tired. I'm not sure I made enough food. No way!" But then, a little voice in my mind reminded me that this is what we have taught our children. That in a moments notice, our table is available to any of our friends that happen to drop in or be around. As we added to plates to the table, I rejoiced that my children were living out what we have taught them it means to be "Pittsburgh Bailys."
This is one of the things I love most about the city. People. All sorts, shapes, sizes. All different backgrounds and life stories. All created by God and loved by Him. And I love that they drop by our house and share our lives.
One of the things I like most is having so many different types of people around. David and I enjoy company, and it is not uncommon for several people to drop by our house daily. My children have grown up expecting a variety of people at our door and our dinner table, people who happened by and were invited in to spend time with us or invited to join us for a meal. My children have had the privilege of knowing people young and old, black and white, rich and poor, and having entertained them all in home for all kinds of occasions.
This past week, my children were in our back yard playing with a few neighborhood kids. I called my brood inside for dinner, and as they came to the door, they pulled me aside to ask in a whispered voice, "Can we invite Rosie and VJ to join us for dinner?" At first, my internal reaction was, "Definitely not! Dad is out of town tonight, and I'm already tired. I'm not sure I made enough food. No way!" But then, a little voice in my mind reminded me that this is what we have taught our children. That in a moments notice, our table is available to any of our friends that happen to drop in or be around. As we added to plates to the table, I rejoiced that my children were living out what we have taught them it means to be "Pittsburgh Bailys."
This is one of the things I love most about the city. People. All sorts, shapes, sizes. All different backgrounds and life stories. All created by God and loved by Him. And I love that they drop by our house and share our lives.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
04/23/09
What a lovely day it is turning out to be! The sun is warming everything up! How exciting! My cold bones sure love the spring and summer heat!
The boys have been outside a little bit today, playing in the dirt with their little guys. Eliza plays along with them most of the time. She has a few girls that she adds to their imaginary world. The babies have been playing in the living room, puzzles, books, balls.
This afternoon, we'll read a little more about Russia. We are picking up some raspberries and peppermint tea to make a special Russian tea. Next week, our friends, the Burgess family, will join us for dinner. They've spent a year living in Russia and have many tales to tell.
We're also going to read about the tundra. I'm so thankful that I do not live there. God was gracious to put me here in the Eastern U.S. I love the seasons, and after the cold of winter, I am grateful for the warmth of the summer. Thanks be to God for the sunny day!
The boys have been outside a little bit today, playing in the dirt with their little guys. Eliza plays along with them most of the time. She has a few girls that she adds to their imaginary world. The babies have been playing in the living room, puzzles, books, balls.
This afternoon, we'll read a little more about Russia. We are picking up some raspberries and peppermint tea to make a special Russian tea. Next week, our friends, the Burgess family, will join us for dinner. They've spent a year living in Russia and have many tales to tell.
We're also going to read about the tundra. I'm so thankful that I do not live there. God was gracious to put me here in the Eastern U.S. I love the seasons, and after the cold of winter, I am grateful for the warmth of the summer. Thanks be to God for the sunny day!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
04/22/09
What a beautiful morning! The sun is up and the sky isn't cloudy yet. I enjoy the start of the day. That's probably because I seem to be an optimist. Before the day begins, I'm usually full of ideas of things to do and hope of all that can be accomplished. Sometimes, my ambitions are realized and other times they are sorely crushed.
Today, I am hoping for a nicely paced day. We have our music lessons and a little school work. Isaiah should finish up math today and then we'll probably take a break from math for most of May. I think Isaiah is interested in learning to type, so we may spend some computer time each day doing that.
Today, I am hoping that the weather is kind enough to let us take a trash pick- up walk in honor of earth day. Armed with plastic bags, I hope we can make our street and alley look a little more beautiful. We might also make a craft with some of the litter we retrieve.
Today, I am praying the babies take a good nap. They've been chatterboxes the last couple of days, playing and talking instead of sleeping! I hope we can wear them out and that they will get a good rest this afternoon.
Today, I am hopeful that our day will please God and that we'll grow closer to him by learning to honor one another above ourselves. Bless us, Lord, and help us to serve you.
Today, I am hoping for a nicely paced day. We have our music lessons and a little school work. Isaiah should finish up math today and then we'll probably take a break from math for most of May. I think Isaiah is interested in learning to type, so we may spend some computer time each day doing that.
Today, I am hoping that the weather is kind enough to let us take a trash pick- up walk in honor of earth day. Armed with plastic bags, I hope we can make our street and alley look a little more beautiful. We might also make a craft with some of the litter we retrieve.
Today, I am praying the babies take a good nap. They've been chatterboxes the last couple of days, playing and talking instead of sleeping! I hope we can wear them out and that they will get a good rest this afternoon.
Today, I am hopeful that our day will please God and that we'll grow closer to him by learning to honor one another above ourselves. Bless us, Lord, and help us to serve you.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
04/21/09
Right now my skin is crawling from all the cleaning I've been doing in the basement. The dust is immense. Gross!
Our church holds its annual rummage sale next weekend, and I am anxious to rid our home of all those unused things that have been lying around. I've already taken two van loads of things. Tomorrow, I plan to take yet one more load. Perhaps I'll ask Dave if he can haul the paper that we need to recycle to the bin.
My household help is about to have her baby in the next few weeks. I am so excited to meet her little one, but also sad to see her leave us soon. Caroline has been incredibly helpful. Before her final day, I hope to tie up some loose ends with cleaning and organizing.
For today, I am stopping. I could go on and on in the basement, but I think it's wise to take a break. I've worked for four or so hours and I need a little time to fold laundry. If it's not one thing, it's another. Help me to wisely use my time today, Lord. Direct my actions and thoughts.
Our church holds its annual rummage sale next weekend, and I am anxious to rid our home of all those unused things that have been lying around. I've already taken two van loads of things. Tomorrow, I plan to take yet one more load. Perhaps I'll ask Dave if he can haul the paper that we need to recycle to the bin.
My household help is about to have her baby in the next few weeks. I am so excited to meet her little one, but also sad to see her leave us soon. Caroline has been incredibly helpful. Before her final day, I hope to tie up some loose ends with cleaning and organizing.
For today, I am stopping. I could go on and on in the basement, but I think it's wise to take a break. I've worked for four or so hours and I need a little time to fold laundry. If it's not one thing, it's another. Help me to wisely use my time today, Lord. Direct my actions and thoughts.
Monday, April 20, 2009
04/20/09
Quickly, I'll post a little something for the day. The babies are already chattering in their beds and I'll need to tend to them soon. The day is in full swing. Thankfully, I awoke at 6:30 and started black beans on the stove top and filled the dishwasher with last nights mugs and cups from our small group meeting. Then, on to my quiet time of reading. So far, a good pace for the day.
I realized this morning that in only five weeks, we can bring a close to this "school year". At least the formal work that I feel the children need to accomplish. I am looking forward to many days of informal learning, inquiring, investigating. Certainly, the children are glad that the year is tapering to a slower pace.
This week, we start our study of Russia. After that, it's two weeks of Australia and then a week of Antarctica. We'll keep up with our spelling, reading and grammar for the next five weeks. Also, we'll use the time to solidify our math facts. Hopefully, we'll enjoy a good deal of nature study too. I love the outdoors. It's so much easier to get out when you don't have to put on hats, gloves, boots. We'll do a little hiking and a lot of observing. I can hardly wait.
On this rainy day, we'll plug along with our indoor studies. Well, off to get the two tiniest Bailys. Blessings on your day!
I realized this morning that in only five weeks, we can bring a close to this "school year". At least the formal work that I feel the children need to accomplish. I am looking forward to many days of informal learning, inquiring, investigating. Certainly, the children are glad that the year is tapering to a slower pace.
This week, we start our study of Russia. After that, it's two weeks of Australia and then a week of Antarctica. We'll keep up with our spelling, reading and grammar for the next five weeks. Also, we'll use the time to solidify our math facts. Hopefully, we'll enjoy a good deal of nature study too. I love the outdoors. It's so much easier to get out when you don't have to put on hats, gloves, boots. We'll do a little hiking and a lot of observing. I can hardly wait.
On this rainy day, we'll plug along with our indoor studies. Well, off to get the two tiniest Bailys. Blessings on your day!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
04/16/09
What a glorious day! The sunshine sure brings health to the spirit! Early in the afternoon, we took a wonderful nature walk over to the seminary. Instead of finding all kinds of neat nature to look at, we also ran into several friends. Today was the Pittsburgh Presbytery meeting held at the Seminary. I got to touch base with friends I hadn't seen for a long time!
We were on a mushroom hunt, but alas, no mushrooms to be found. We did find moss and some other fungi that grows on trees. We collected a few samples to explore at home. When we returned, the babies went down for their nap and the boys and I read our latest read aloud. Then around 3 p.m., we headed back outdoors. Working on the front garden, I helped the children identify young plants. We transplanted some of our black eyed Susans to the backyard, and we noted how robust our tulips are. I can hardly wait for their blooms. We also potted some pansies in pots, and left a mess from weeding on the sidewalk. Maybe I'll tend to that when Dave gets home.
Tonight, we'll enjoy BBQ beef sands, sweet potato fries, and a veggie medley. At least Dave and I will enjoy it. We'll see about the kids.
Hoping for another glorious day tomorrow! I'm so glad God allows the sun to shine upon us. What a gift!
We were on a mushroom hunt, but alas, no mushrooms to be found. We did find moss and some other fungi that grows on trees. We collected a few samples to explore at home. When we returned, the babies went down for their nap and the boys and I read our latest read aloud. Then around 3 p.m., we headed back outdoors. Working on the front garden, I helped the children identify young plants. We transplanted some of our black eyed Susans to the backyard, and we noted how robust our tulips are. I can hardly wait for their blooms. We also potted some pansies in pots, and left a mess from weeding on the sidewalk. Maybe I'll tend to that when Dave gets home.
Tonight, we'll enjoy BBQ beef sands, sweet potato fries, and a veggie medley. At least Dave and I will enjoy it. We'll see about the kids.
Hoping for another glorious day tomorrow! I'm so glad God allows the sun to shine upon us. What a gift!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
04/15/09
I'm coming out of the morning fog. Joel had a terrible night of sleep. After waking around 2 a.m. and crying for forty minutes or so, I finally brought him into bed with us. He was cute and cuddly, playing with my hair and snuggling close. Then he head butted me. He didn't mean to, but it was almost four in the morning, so I put him back in his bed. He's still snoozing. I'm still wishing I was snoozing.
Today we are going to have a very routine day. It's rainy, so the children will probably be inside all day. I hope they're not too squirrelly! I'd hoped to get up a little earlier and get some things done. Instead, I got up around 6:40, read my Bible, and fell over on the couch "praying". I did actually pray a little, but I rested in the Lord quite a bit as well.
Lord, the day belongs to You. Make it what you want it to be. Teach my children to love and fear You.
Today we are going to have a very routine day. It's rainy, so the children will probably be inside all day. I hope they're not too squirrelly! I'd hoped to get up a little earlier and get some things done. Instead, I got up around 6:40, read my Bible, and fell over on the couch "praying". I did actually pray a little, but I rested in the Lord quite a bit as well.
Lord, the day belongs to You. Make it what you want it to be. Teach my children to love and fear You.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
04/04/09
My dear husband made sure that I got up by 6:30 today. I am greatful for his encouragement. Last week, I had quite the sleeping in slump. When I have an hour to myself in the morning, it helps to center me for the day. I have greater peace and patience.
The babies are battling a little cold. Grumpy! That would be a good way to describe their disposition. Needy! Another good word. Whiny! That sums them up for at least yesterday. They had an early bedtime, and I am hopeful they will feel better today.
Today we'll be working through some math and grammar and spending time exploring Japan. Last night we indulged in mochi, a Japanese ice cream desert. Tasty! We're also finishing a biography about Gladys Aylward. I have requested the Ingrid Bergman film the Inn of Six Happinesses from Netflix. The film depicts Gladys' work in China. We can't wait to watch it.
Praying that God blesses you today and that He equips us for the work He places before us.
The babies are battling a little cold. Grumpy! That would be a good way to describe their disposition. Needy! Another good word. Whiny! That sums them up for at least yesterday. They had an early bedtime, and I am hopeful they will feel better today.
Today we'll be working through some math and grammar and spending time exploring Japan. Last night we indulged in mochi, a Japanese ice cream desert. Tasty! We're also finishing a biography about Gladys Aylward. I have requested the Ingrid Bergman film the Inn of Six Happinesses from Netflix. The film depicts Gladys' work in China. We can't wait to watch it.
Praying that God blesses you today and that He equips us for the work He places before us.
Monday, April 13, 2009
04/13/09
Currently, our family is reading about the life of Gladys Aylward. Amazing! A woman of small stature made enormous contributions as a missionary in China. The children and I are riveted by her book. It is inspiring to know that God can use a life of someone willing to completely commit themselves to him.
Next year, our family will journey through the 50 states, sometimes by van, sometimes by book. I'd love to drive out west. (Yes, I know I'm crazy considering the toddler twins.) I'm going to start visiting mapquest to see how crazy the idea really is.
I'm also starting to look for mission agencies that serve people in the U.S., so that we might be praying for them and possibly contribute to their work.
I pray that God would use each of us to do mighty things for His Kingdom. Lord, inspire my children and move them to faithfulness to You.
Next year, our family will journey through the 50 states, sometimes by van, sometimes by book. I'd love to drive out west. (Yes, I know I'm crazy considering the toddler twins.) I'm going to start visiting mapquest to see how crazy the idea really is.
I'm also starting to look for mission agencies that serve people in the U.S., so that we might be praying for them and possibly contribute to their work.
I pray that God would use each of us to do mighty things for His Kingdom. Lord, inspire my children and move them to faithfulness to You.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
04/11/09
Relaxed. Enjoyable. Peaceful. That's the morning we've been sharing here at 508 N. Sheridan Ave. The kids awoke today to a surprise of Easter baskets hidden on the first floor. They couldn't believe it knowing that Easter is tomorrow, not today. Dave and I decided to try our basket tradition on Saturday this year and to leave Sunday as an unrushed morning of worshipping the Risen Lord.
The babies had an egg hunt in the living room. The delighted themselves with eggs filled with M&M's. Chocolatey drool ran down their chins and squeals erupted after they spotted each egg. They didn't like the peeps in their baskets, but they enjoyed the crackers with cheese. It was fun to see them partake in this yearly tradition.
Dave and I listened to quiet hymns. We watched our growing family. It's always about this age that I am again able to enjoy my family. I don't feel the same stress I did the first eighteen months. I am thankful to God for this.
I love days like this. I enjoy the unhurried pace, the time to be fully in the moment. Not all our days are blissful like this one. So, I will try to hold on to the feelings I shared with my family this day, when the busy, rushed days of the week greet us Monday morning. Thank you, Lord, for this beautiful day.
The babies had an egg hunt in the living room. The delighted themselves with eggs filled with M&M's. Chocolatey drool ran down their chins and squeals erupted after they spotted each egg. They didn't like the peeps in their baskets, but they enjoyed the crackers with cheese. It was fun to see them partake in this yearly tradition.
Dave and I listened to quiet hymns. We watched our growing family. It's always about this age that I am again able to enjoy my family. I don't feel the same stress I did the first eighteen months. I am thankful to God for this.
I love days like this. I enjoy the unhurried pace, the time to be fully in the moment. Not all our days are blissful like this one. So, I will try to hold on to the feelings I shared with my family this day, when the busy, rushed days of the week greet us Monday morning. Thank you, Lord, for this beautiful day.
Friday, April 10, 2009
04/10/09
It's already 11:16 this Holy Good Friday. This morning, I read through the crucifixion in John and have been meditating on that. There are many things to think about when we ponder Christ's death. I am amazed at his sacrifice, his willingness to be beaten and to suffer great pain because of our sin.
This morning, I was bathing the babies and afterwards, as I was trying to encourage them to listen and stay out of the bathroom, I banged my side into the door knob. It smarted pretty good, and I'm sure I'll have a bruise from the incident. I looked down at them after my loud "Ow!", and said, "If you'd just obeyed, mommy wouldn't have gotten hurt." Then my mind jumped back to my morning reading. I thought, "If we'd just obeyed, he'd not have needed to suffer."
Lord, remind me to obey you. Holy Spirt, open my ears that I might always hear you and soften my heart that I might always respond.
This morning, I was bathing the babies and afterwards, as I was trying to encourage them to listen and stay out of the bathroom, I banged my side into the door knob. It smarted pretty good, and I'm sure I'll have a bruise from the incident. I looked down at them after my loud "Ow!", and said, "If you'd just obeyed, mommy wouldn't have gotten hurt." Then my mind jumped back to my morning reading. I thought, "If we'd just obeyed, he'd not have needed to suffer."
Lord, remind me to obey you. Holy Spirt, open my ears that I might always hear you and soften my heart that I might always respond.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
04/07/09
Praise the Lord, I was able to get up by 6:30 today. My eyes were so heavy that it took me longer than usual to read my Bible. I just couldn't really concentrate on the words. Mornings for me are a wonderful blessing. I have found that just an hour of time alone before the kids wake for the day gives me mental stability. It affords me the ability to cope with the pressures of each day.
This week, Isaiah will take his first CAT test. He and a friend will take the test either Wednesday or Thursday. We are enjoying a modified week this week because of the test. At this point in our school year, Isaiah is almost finished with his math program. We are working extra hard at spelling. It seems to be the area we need to give most attention to. Having started back to school in August, we have less than 40 days to complete our school year by state standards. I am looking forward to the much needed break in June and July.
Last week, I received our school materials for next year. It is always a highlight for me! I love imagining all the learning that will take place. I love flipping through the materials. Next year, we'll be focusing on American history. Lots of field trips are in the works....Philadelphia, Williamsburg, Boston, maybe even a hike out west. We'll see!
This week, Isaiah will take his first CAT test. He and a friend will take the test either Wednesday or Thursday. We are enjoying a modified week this week because of the test. At this point in our school year, Isaiah is almost finished with his math program. We are working extra hard at spelling. It seems to be the area we need to give most attention to. Having started back to school in August, we have less than 40 days to complete our school year by state standards. I am looking forward to the much needed break in June and July.
Last week, I received our school materials for next year. It is always a highlight for me! I love imagining all the learning that will take place. I love flipping through the materials. Next year, we'll be focusing on American history. Lots of field trips are in the works....Philadelphia, Williamsburg, Boston, maybe even a hike out west. We'll see!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
04/01/09
It has been too long since I've had time to write and my internet has been functioning. I didn't realize just how much I enjoy jotting my thoughts and our comings and goings each day.
Things here are rolling smoothly right now. I thank God for his help in getting us to a peaceful place. Schooling has been moving along at a brisk pace and the boys are ahead of schedule in most of their subjects. Nathaniel finished both his reading and math programs already, and Isaiah is slated to finish math possibly next week. Math fact review will be our focus for the rest of our school year, along with some story problem practice.
As for geography, we're touring China currently. Caroline has been a wealth of information being that she has been to China numerous times and that she speaks Mandarin. Last night we had bang-bang chicken for dinner. The kids seemed to enjoy it. I'll try to post the recipe somewhere on the blog later in the week.
Things here are rolling smoothly right now. I thank God for his help in getting us to a peaceful place. Schooling has been moving along at a brisk pace and the boys are ahead of schedule in most of their subjects. Nathaniel finished both his reading and math programs already, and Isaiah is slated to finish math possibly next week. Math fact review will be our focus for the rest of our school year, along with some story problem practice.
As for geography, we're touring China currently. Caroline has been a wealth of information being that she has been to China numerous times and that she speaks Mandarin. Last night we had bang-bang chicken for dinner. The kids seemed to enjoy it. I'll try to post the recipe somewhere on the blog later in the week.
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