The Horrocks Family

Happy Birthday to me!!!

2010-01-08T22:37:00.000-08:00

In honor of my first official "old" birthday - 32 (I know, some of you are rolling your eyes) I got my etsy shop up and running! I dont have a ton listed here yet, but hope to have more soon.

www.sweetmylissa.com

Please visit often and tell your friends!

Love,
Mylissa

Happy Things

2010-01-06T14:39:00.000-08:00

It's January, and time for my yearly "Happy Things" post. Just a couple...

A new shower curtain

Mark and I have been in the lengthy process of "redressing" our bedroom - with some minor bathroom renovation to boot. After living for over year with a liner for a curtain, I sprung for this one at Target. I love it! When he saw it, Mark said, "that is what my brain looks like!" And I think he's probably right.

Dangerous Journey - a retelling of The Pilgrim's Progress

Bella reading her literature book to the boys. We use Veritas Press literature guides, and I really love this beautiful book!

Now I saw in my dream that the road, from then on, was named Salvation. Along this road did burdened Christian run. Or should we say, he did his best to run, so far as he could, with that load upon his back. At the foot of a hill, he passed an open tomb. Then up again, upon a little knoll, he found himselfe beneath a wayside cross. And as its shadow fell across him, so suddenly the burden, slipping from his shoulders, fell from off his back. It tumbled down the hill. It tumbled into the mouth of the tomb. It was never seen again.
Christian kept feeling behind his back. He couldn't believe it. For it was very surprising to him that the simple act of gazing at the cross had set him free, and his burden of guilt was gone.
As he stood there in amazement, behold three Shining Ones appeared. The first one said: Your soul is now swept clean of sin.
The second one stripped him of his mud-stained rags, and gave him bright new clothes. The third one handed him a parchment.
Guard it carefully, he said, and surrender it only when you have reached the gate of the Celestial City.
Great dangers lay ahead of him but for the moment he was light as air. So Christian gave three leaps for joy, and went on singing.

Horses

2009-10-25T05:54:00.000-07:00

Brillant name for the post, I know. But I haven't posted here in ages, and I know the best way to tackle this is to start from most recent and work backwards.
In August, Mia and Abigail started coming out for riding lessons. They are both doing so well and I got some great pictures of them this week!

We have been working for the past few months to get the pony to drop much needed weight. This is the "skinniest" we've seen her in ages...you can actually press down now and feel her backbone!! This makes her MUCH easier to ride, although she could still lose some more weight...

the start of week 5

2009-09-14T07:12:00.000-07:00

well, we are 5 weeks in to school now - and moving right along. My new dateless lesson plan system has freed me up to skip a few things here and there - thankfully not many - and although we have added subjects this year we seem to be keeping on track. I think the biggest change we have made this year is adding several activities. Bella and Izaiah are both taking piano once a week, Bella has weekly voice lessons, and all three are taking twice weekly PE classes at the YMCA. Izaiah's starting cub scouts this year, and everyone is participating in 4-H. Mommy is teaching weekly horse lessons, and daddy is coaching everyone in soccer.

If you know me, you'll know that I abhorr shuttling kids to and fro - and I generally think America's children are overscheduled. But for the past several months, the house has been very full, and scheduling 'fun' and healthy activities seems to be one of the better ways I can create some normalcy for the kids. Most of the time, I feel like I am walking a tightrope with them - on one side is total immersion in HFH, and on the other, emotional detachment. We are working towards healthly involvement and sustainability for all of us - and asking God for the grace to do it.
Blessings to you,
Mylissa

grow your own: fresh food

2009-08-18T06:11:00.001-07:00

A few pics of the stuff we are growing this year (ignore the weeds):

watermelon and cantaloupe

eggplant, both Italian and Japanese

the butternut squash is just starting to fruit!

The green peppers are doing fairly well, but the reds aren't

pretty Zinnias!

grow your own: compost tea

2009-08-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

We've been gone for a week, and last night I noticed that several of my plants were looking a little iffy. I had to clean out the fridge anyway, so I decided to break out the food processor and make some compost tea.

1.) I have never done this before
2.) If you decide to try this, don't do it with a weak stomach. It smells like puke when it's done.

Now technically, you are supposed to let compost tea steep, hence the name. Usually sitting it outside in the heat is in order. But since I am terribly inpatient, and am also in awe of a few gardeners I know that dump raw kitchen scrap on their prolific plants, I decided to make and toss quickly (the smell may have had something to do with it).

First, gather all your nastyness that you have from your fridge (or the coolers you used while you were camping). No animal products, please - and you probably shouldn't use citrus (ignore the lemon).

Now you will need to dump all the old food into a fairly powerful blender, vitamix or Cuisinart. While you are doing this, don't rush. Try not to drop all the nasty on the floor. If you do, it will wind up looking something like this:

I love this beastly machine that my mom and sister got for me two years ago.

Depending on what types of food you are using, you may want to add some hot water. You will wind up with something like this:

If you have an eldest child, you really should let them mix it up in the bucket. I discovered that they will then torture their brothers by yelling, "Look guys! Mom made you smoothies for dinner!!"

here comes the end of 2009

2009-08-12T05:11:00.000-07:00

I realize its only the second week of August, but this morning I laid in bed mentally checking off things I could accomplish this month to make the holiday season less busy. We have been on the road CONSTANTLY this summer, and honestly I am ready for some home-time! One last trip before we start school...Mulberry Mountain Harvest Fest in Ozark, AR. Looking forward to some great bluegrass and jam bands - hopefully enough music to hold us over till next spring.

This is the time of year I start getting inspired to craft and create, and praise Jesus for the internet and new ideas. Thought I would share some of my favorite inspiration places with you:

Laura Gunn is a mom, painter and brand-new fabric designer - her watercolor inspired fabrics are so pretty!

Paint in my Hair

Craft Magazine originated as a paper publication out of Great Britian. They have found their blog to be so popular they have quit printing the paper version. They post constantly (its really too much to keep up with) but grab some of the most interesting craft and art that I have seen online. Lots of modernity here.

Craftzine

This is sort of cheating, since there is no obvious craft involved, but I love this farm blog. The pictures on here are fantastic, and inspire me to get serious about my gardening and management of the land we occupy.

Tiny Farm Blog

Thats all for now - Mark is packing the car for the trip and I should probably look active.
More soon!

Homeschool 2009/2010

2009-07-27T19:45:00.000-07:00

Well, I know I've been absent a while - but not without good cause. We were able to escape Memphis for a full three weeks, thanks to our awesome volunteers and staff here in town! Since we've been home, I've been busy getting school ready for the fall and doing some last minute cleaning and organizing. Also trying to catch up on my sewing projects - have several to finish before I can start on some Christmas projects! So...for any of you who might be interested - here is my FINAL cirriculum list for the upcoming school year. Feel free to stop reading now if you could care less about homeschool! :)

Bella - 4th grade

Bible - Considering God's Word Book B
Critical Thinking - Mind-Benders
Math - Horizons 4
Spelling - Spelling Workout D
Writing - Writing strands 3 (about halfway through this book)
Grammar - Evan-Moor daily language practice 4
Language Arts - Language Lessons for the Elementary Child book 2 (Queen Homeschool)
Literature - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Dangerous Journey comp guides from Veritas Press
History - Story of the World Middle Ages/Early Modern
Science - Sonlight and Nature Journals

Izaiah - 2nd grade

Bible - Considering God's Word book A
Critical Thinking - Mind-Benders
Math - Horizons 2
Spelling - Spelling Workout B
Grammar - Evan-Moor daily language practice 2
Language Arts - Language Lessons for the Very Young book 2 (Queen)
Literature - Black Ships before Troy comp guide from Veritas Press
History - Same
Science - Same

Sam - Kindergarten

Math - Horizons K
Reading - 100 easy lessons
phonics/spelling - explode the code series
History and Science - same

So what do you think? Overarching? We homeschool moms like to start August off planning on schooling 14 hours a day - but usually by October we have scaled back. I am using a slightly different scheduling format this year, so although this might look heavy, hopefully its attainable. I'd love your thoughts!

Where in the world...

2009-06-30T05:59:00.001-07:00

So what have I NOT been doing?? Sewing, crafting, riding my horses, blogging. What have I been up to? Working for HFH, keeping up with my excercise (although not as intensely as I'd like) and trying to finish out the last tidbits of school with my kiddos.

Historically, summer has always been our busiest season at HFH. When I realized we were once again entering the hectic cycle, I figured I had two choices - buck up and deal with it (and help) or say 'no' and grab that time for myself, my hobbies, etc. Thankfully with God's grace I have found some additional time to devote to HFH this summer. The reward has been meeting some precious new moms and helping my husband in the work that he is so devoted to - he amazes me with his dedication! Even when he's having to do things that I know aren't his favorite, he presses on and honors God with his discipline.

Tomorrow, we leave to go spend some time in NY with my mother-in-law and the rest of Mark's family. We will take your prayers - we will arrive thursday at the cottage, and this is the first overnight this year that anyone will have spent there since Gary passed away. We are looking forward to helping Margaret get settled in to what we know is the new "normal" - one that none of us want to deal with but with God's grace we will see it through.

At the end of our time in New England we will make a quick trip to Boston to see our precious and long-time friends Annie and Adam, to visit Eli VanZanten and his family, and to spend a bit of time at L'abri Fellowship in Southborough, MA. L'abri. AHHHH. Enough said. Some of you may know that we have modeled some of what we do here at HFH after the L'abri model. Mark will need to drag me home (I love Memphis, really I do!!). We would appreciate your prayers for our summer trip and I will try to post some pictures while we are away.

MOO

2009-06-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

I needed some quick and easy tags for my "Sweet Mylissa" gear, and I remembered that Robin Cornett had ordered these a couple years ago as business cards. Mini-Moos are so cute, and you can upload up to 20 images for a set of 100. There are three font choices for the back - simple but very nice. At 19.99 and fairly quick shipping you can't beat it!

300%???

2009-06-01T18:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this article today, and I was shocked at the statistics and some of the implications. Apparently, in less than 30 years, the number of overweight 4 year olds has increased 300%.
Read more here.

The Calendar

2009-06-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

One of the ways I am staying motivated with working out this go-round is with my trusty calendar. If I was better at using our scanner, I would show it to you, but its basically a simple calendar that tells me I have to work out 3 times a week, at least. The days I do something, I write it in that block, and I can track my progess. So the humilating but highly effective part of the calendar? REWARDS. Yes. Stealing from the chore system we recently implemented for the kids, I chose to allow myself small rewards on the Saturday after each two week period. I have just completed my first month using the calendar, and I can tell you it's helping. And the best part is that I am not even looking for the reward at this point - its just a nice reminder that I am staying on track. At the end of June I get to buy myself new jeans - my favs :).

Babies, Babies, Everywhere!!

2009-05-31T07:45:00.000-07:00

At 31 years old, Mark and I feel our baby-making days are (more or less) over, and now most of our 30-year-old friends are finally getting on the bandwagon. Soon, I will have lots of babies around to hold! And friends' babies mean lots of fun sewing!

My friend Jan and I share a love of birds. She didn't want a "theme-y" nursery, but has a few cute birdy things here and there. When I found this Joel Dewberry Aviary fabric, I knew it was for Jan.

I think I will name the pattern "Charlotte" in honor of Jan's little one, unless she changes the name. Its backed in flannel backed satin, because every baby needs a silky! I used "warm n white" all natural batting, because its real cotton and I love the feel of it.

I put together this little set for my friend Becky to give to her friend Christal. Christal and Becky have been BFF's since 5th grade, and Christal is naming her third child after Becky! Rebekah Pate Barnes will join the world Monday - precious baby. This is Heather Bailey's Pop Garden line, with which I am completely enamored. The bib is backed in soft striped chenille, which just makes me happy.

And take note of the pretty pink flower I grabbed from the front garden for these pics. Mo Ottinger has been relentlessly mocking (all in good fun) the massive hollyhock that is growing in front of the house (it has crested 6 feet, and yes, its a bit out of place) but now that I am getting these sweet flowers from it, I really don't mind!

And we have purchased the domain http://www.sweetmylissa.com/ to put up a simple site for my projects. I have tags heading to me in the mail. I will let you know when the site is active!

Celebrations all around

2009-05-28T20:10:00.000-07:00

May 10 was Bella's 9th birthday and Mother's Day. We celebrated all day, including a trip to build-a-bear in the afternoon. On May 12 Nonny Margaret came into town, and on the 19th we celebrated Papa Gary's first birthday in heaven. Samuel's birthday was the next day, so Mark and I really wanted to do something special to celebrate both of these days. The evening of the 19th, we left for St Louis to go to Six Flags all day on the 20th. Papa LOVED roller coasters, and amusement parks were something that Mark and his brother John enjoyed with their parents regularly when they were kids. Bella also rode her first roller coaster with Papa. It was bittersweet to enjoy that park without Gary, but it was also more precious to think about how much Papa would have enjoyed it there. Mark inherited his father's love of crazy rides, so he really enjoyed himself too.

They should charge for this

2009-05-14T17:45:00.000-07:00

So I thought I would post a little update about my return to health. You know, we have friends (you know who you are) that HATE New Year's Resolutions. But, if you are like me, when you happen upon the resolutions you wrote in January and realize that you have done NOTHING about it, it kick starts your motivation.

I am a bit over two weeks into the new eating plan, and by the weekend I will have been working out again for two weeks.

I can tell you I feel SO MUCH BETTER, consistently! And I do think the abs, waist and arms are already showing the results. I don't feel that I am eating much, but the smaller portions are protein-packed, so I haven't yet been hungry.

A word about getting in shape - I am enjoying the YMCA membership, but after a couple weeks of doing a few different workouts, I can safely say the 'Becky' workout is top-notch. And I love that I can do it at home, preferably while watching styleTV or something equally ridiculous.

It is as follows, and I have put my personal (ok'ed by Becky) adjustments in parentheses.

5 sets of:

10 pull ups (lat pull downs)
20 push ups (I do some regular and some girl)
30 crunches
40 squats without weights
50 jump rope (I do this without the rope)

2 minute rest in between, or till recovery. Take 20-30 seconds between the moves if you need it.

This thing will have you sore at first, but feeling very strong and sensing your whole body engaging pretty quickly. It also gets the heart rate up, while working core areas. I spent 45 minutes today in a fairly tough muscle class, and although the moves were hard, my heart rate never really went up and it took - 45 minutes. The Becky workout can be done safely in 30 minutes.

Hoping I can keep it up!

Two of my favorite things: trees and shakespeare

2009-05-08T07:52:00.000-07:00

We recently made nature journals with help from Donna Young at http://www.donnayoung.org/. Yesterday, the kids picked leaves and did a page describing a tree. We are pressing the leaves, and will insert them in our journal. When looking for a heavy book to press them in, I decided my Pelican Shakepeare was just the right heft. So we are pressing our leaves in the midst of Julius Ceasar, which we are studying for history. Does this count as a unit study?

Confessions, part deux

2009-05-03T08:20:00.000-07:00

Jessie recently confessed her addiction to her coupon system on her blog. I guess she’s got me on a roll.

If you follow me on twitter, you might notice I have been eating strange things. Like veggies for breakfast. And live food drink for a ‘snack’. Let me fill you in…
I come from an interesting mix of folks – my dad has always been a binge eater – we all remember laughing with him as he would make up a bowl of ice cream (large) with chex mix on top. My mother raised me without sugar cereals, wheat bread only, low cal everything. She also exercised regularly (and still does). As a child, I think I leaned toward my dad’s tendencies with food – comfort eating at its finest. As a teen, I began to swim and exercise, and leaned more toward my mom. Split personality, I know.
When Mark and I were 19, we became vegetarians. Although we had been thinking of making the leap for some time, Mark’s parents took us to Outback one night and Mark wound up nearly in the hospital from some sort of food poisoning. That was his last taste of meat for over three years. When I got pregnant for Bella, I did really well until the end; I kept craving a turkey sandwich from Subway. So, meat eaters we were – again. After Bella was born, we managed to eat very healthy – I made all of her baby food, made sure she got tons of veggies, did everything “by the book”. When she was diagnosed with cancer, we immediately put her on tons of vitamins and supplements, and continued this regimen for nearly two years, adopting much of it for ourselves and Izaiah as well. During the time when I was pregnant with Sam, while Bella was still on her chemo, I lapsed into eating foods that were higher in sugar and carbs. I remember that I would crave these foods for their comfort value as well as the immediate feeling of fullness I would get – but after several months of this, I realized that I was feeling really awful most of the time. I was always just a little too tired, a little too bloated, a little too moody. At the time, I tried the Maker’s Diet and felt great...and then was able to get a handle on my eating once again. Cut to 2006 and Habitat for Hope.

So I’ve already mentioned I have the tendency to eat for comfort, right? Well, in the past 3 years not only have we entertained more than ever (think: dessert every night) but we have also been under the most stress I have ever experienced in my life (and yes, this is by choice). Every time we lose a child we have been close to, my heart breaks again – a dear friend who has been working in oncology for 30 years said its like “ripping a band-aid off, over and over”. Great analogy. When we entertain, our scripture of choice has always been Romans 14:20 – very loosely applied, we feel that we are feeding others here for their physical and spiritual sake, not ours – and therefore will prepare foods that they would love. In the south, that typically means high fat/high carb/low veggie. So we have a stressed comfort-eating mommy who is also cooking foods that her guests will enjoy, and oh yeah, eating out way too much –

And you get one depressed, angry gal.

I am sure this is only true for me, but since I was little, I could equate what I was putting in to my mouth to my general feeling of well-being. And over the past several months, something has just been off. Or maybe its been off for some time, but I am finally choosing to do something about it. A couple of times last week, I woke up simply feeling angry and fustrated. I prayed through that emotion, but the second or third time it happened, I realized something would have to give. After thinking about the reality of what goes in my mouth I came up with this:

Coffee (caffeine and sugar)
Coke Zero or Crystal Light (I had NEVER drank this stuff before this year, have no idea why I started)
Some form of dessert (usually after 10pm at night)

Throw in a couple of higher carb meals, and for me, that is a recipe for disaster.

So for the past several days, I have been detoxing. I am following my own plan, formulated just by good sense and some help from the Maker’s Diet and a few other books I have laying around. At this point, I have cut out all sugar, from food sources as well as added (so no fruit yet), and I am only allowing myself one cup of coffee in the morning. I am actually EATING breakfast, and greatly reducing my intake at all other meals. I have also added back live food (Green Vibrance is our favorite) and supplemental fiber. I am trying to eat earlier in the evening (like 5-5:30pm) and I actually think this is much better for the kids, as well. Basically, after several more days of this, I will start to add back some good grains, such as Ezekiel 4:9 breads and brown rice, and some fruits. Eventually, the idea is that I will rid my system of some stuff that has been ailing me, and at some point in the future my diet will be able to handle a few ‘extras’ here and there, but it will be more in proportion to the good stuff that is going in.

I feel amazing. I really hope it continues.
Will you pray for me? I am going to need serious will power to move ahead!

Anne of Green Gables

2009-04-27T09:07:00.000-07:00

Confession: Book Reports (notice the capitals) scare me. I've never really determined their use in homeschooling - maybe I'm an idiot, but since my kids insist on recounting EVERY book they've read while we are folding laundry (or more commonly, when I am trying to send HFH emails), I sort of figured we were OK. We also do a fair amount of narration and copywork, so I've hoped we were covering our bases.
And then today in Bella's non-homeschool Barnes-and-Noble-on-sale grammar workbook, she had to write a book report. I figured I would let her have at it - and this is what we've got.

Anne of Avonlea

The book Anne of Green Gables is written by a great author named Lucy Maud Montgomery. It's a great book about Anne Shirley whose parents died when she was four. She then gets to stay at someone's house for a few years, then when she turns eleven she goes to an orphanage. She stays there for three months. Then the Cuthberts adopt her! Anne is a very lively girl and is always getting herself into scrapes. Once a little girl named Minnie May got very sick; Anne knew exactly what to do and saved her life! When Anne turned 14 she went to Queens (which is where she learned to teach school). Read this book and share it with a friend.

Not bad! A few homophone issues and puctuation errors in the first draft, but I think she's got it.

Why I don't blog anymore...

2009-04-23T12:37:00.000-07:00

My friend Robin

2009-04-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

I know I am LONG overdue for a post, but I wanted to share a few sweet pictures with you. My dear friend Robin Cornett has been taking professional pictures for nearly three years, and we had the chance to get our photos done by her while we were in FL last week. Here is just a sneak preview; for a few more hop over to her blog.

Thankful

2009-04-02T18:21:00.000-07:00

I wish I could record all of the funny and cute things my kids say. Tonight while daddy was cooking dinner (yes, I am exceedingly and abundantly blessed) we were playing Apples to Apples and generally being silly. We were certainly not in a particularly spiritual frame of mind. As we sat down to dinner, Daddy asked each of us what we are thankful for. Samuel (4 years old) immediately said, "Because we get to see Papa again." Now, I thought he meant Poppy, since we are heading to FL next week to see my parents. So I asked, "when do we get to see Papa again?" Sam: "when we go to heaven." Next, Izaiah said, "I am thankful for the Lord allowing us in a few years to build these cabins out here at Habitat for Hope for families to use. And also I am thankful that Mom and Dad told us we are the most important thing to them, other than God and each other." Then Bella, "I am thankful that we have clean water to drink and food to eat, and for Mom and Dad."
And then it came to me. I just sat there dumbfounded, thinking that I had nothing to say after that. Daddy came to my rescue and said, "Mommy and Daddy are thankful for three amazing children that are such a blessing to us."

I do spend a fair amount of time beating myself up for not doing "enough" with the kids - enough school, enough bible, enough life, etc...feeling like I am pulled in 700 directions. I remarked to Mark recently that I feel sometimes that God is taking the small portions I am able to impart and growing them exponentially in these kids' hearts - and allowing them to develop hearts after faith, service and love for those that can offer nothing in return.

We are thankful.

2009-03-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

march

2009-03-25T19:36:00.000-07:00

We're still here!!!

2009-03-25T19:27:00.000-07:00

It's been a VERY busy few weeks around here! Amanda at Sew Originals loved the items I brought in to show her, and I've been working on putting together several items for her to sell. I think we've collectively decided on Sweet Mylissa's - at this point if I can just get a few dresses made quickly I'll be happy. This month, we've had Nonny and our sweet friends the Logsdon's here to stay, and this weekend is the HFH Ladies Retreat/Pancake Breakfast/Property Workday/Inaugural BBQ Smoking Day/Cole Kaspar's Birthday Party. I will be downtown with 13 or so ladies for our retreat, while Mark is here at at the house managing that other stuff, along with Mo and Andy. Yes, we are crazy :) So I'll leave you with a few pictures from the past few weeks and promise a more detailed update later.

Fun for Mama

2009-03-10T21:05:00.000-07:00

Well...
I really didn't think I would do this (again) but I have the chance to sell (just a few) of my handmade items in a little shop in Munford, TN. I am meeting with the owner next week, and we agreed together that I would provide some items, but I wouldn't be under any pressure to provide a high rate of product. Since I pretty much give away what i make, I will be throwing together a few cute pieces this weekend to bring in to Amy, so we can decide together what will work best in her store.

So - this is where you come in.

Some of may know (or remember, God love you) that Mark and I had a little shop in Wilmington, NC while we lived there. Mark made jewelry, I made clothes, and we even had Greatful Dead tie dyed t-shirts for sale. This little place had the uber-cool name of:

InnerSoul Creations

ARGH!! I can't believe I just publicly admitted that. We were 19. Now...I really need your help to come up with a name for my items. I dont really see the need for this, but Mark thinks its imperative. The two that are in the running at the moment are:

Mimi's Closet
Sweet Mylissa's

Both of these have meaning in my life - my father used to name stuff Sweet Mylissa after me - once a big shiny red dump truck and another time a big boat that started on fire. Confession time! And a precious little girl who I loved dearly while she was little used to call me Mimi. I practiced most of my mothering on this little one, since I didn't have my own yet, and I still love her dearly.

Ok - vote away, or help me with a better name!!

Life

2009-03-09T06:29:00.000-07:00

Jack Black and the Opry

2009-03-03T07:39:00.001-08:00

Mark and I took a little trip to Nashville for the weekend, and visited the Grand Ole Opry for the first time. We were lucky enough to see Ricky Skaggs, Sam Bush, The Infamous Stringdusters, Del McCoury, and this guy.

long time no chat

2009-02-23T09:38:00.001-08:00

I know it's been quite some time since I wrote a post! I tend to get so far behind that I don't know where to begin. Well...since we have been schooling regularly since early January, I will share a story that Bella wrote. Moms, this is her second draft - just to be clear :)

I once was in a hurricane! That was when I was little (about three or four). We lived in Florida at the time and we had nowhere to hide in our house. So about two weeks before the storm we went to a condo. It had a big closet in the bathroom. Alot of people could fit in it. My baby brother wasn't born yet but my other brother was (he's my little brother). My family came, my grandparents came, and two of my cousins who were older. When the storm hit, we all went in the closet, and all we could do was play cards and eat bread and drink apple juice! Our house got pretty damaged! All the water fell in, the ceiling fell in, and the garage door door got blown in! We were in teh condo for almost two months!

we'll deal with her 'expressive' writing style later. I love getting the chance to see how the kids' memory works - for example, we went to the condo the morning that the hurricane was blowing in, her baby brother was actually about three months old, and i think we were there nearly till Christmas! I remember just wishing to be back in our house for the holidays. And thankfully she doesn't remember things that were really hard for mom and dad; her chemo shipment being held up in the Fedex warehouse, or the fact that she and mommy wound up with lice (EEEEWWWW!!!!) while we were staying in that condo. First and only time, praise Jesus.

Thank you!!

2009-01-25T07:10:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to thank all of you for the sweet comments on the last post! We are so grateful that you have continued to follow us on this journey.
We love you!
Mylissa

That's All she Wrote

2009-01-22T19:19:00.000-08:00

It's true - we finished our 5 years of scans and visits at St Jude today. Bella's appointments went very well - her scan looked good, her bloodwork was fine - just one surprise, we need to head to endrocine soon because it appears she is entering puberty. This was apparent on the scan, although I've had a mother's hunch for 6 months or so.

We had a good day, and had the Johnsons by our side most of the day. They really are like family to us! Please pray for them tomorrow - sweet Brook has surgery first thing in the AM at LeBonheur. I will say that the feeling is eerie...its really hard to believe that we are drawing this chapter to a close. Praising God!

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Matthew 6:26

Today is the day

2009-01-22T07:29:00.000-08:00

In about an hour, we will head to St Jude for Bella's last D Clinic visit with Dr Furman and his crew (as long as the CT is clear). Tomorrow morning, we will go in for an appointment with the ACT clinic - where she will be seen from here on out. I really think the overriding emotion today is disbelief...its simply hard to believe this morning that this chapter is drawing to a close. We'd appreciate your prayers, and will post an update later in the day.

Happy New Year

2009-01-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

Some of you have received our New Year's card by now, and so I thought I would put a little update on the beginning of 2009 if you are checking in. Since we have been home from New York, we have welcomed a new team member to Habitat for Hope, reconnected after the holidays with some of our families and with Andy and Ginny, and had a short visit from my parents. Mark has been in the process of getting ready to lead us on our very first staff retreat in a few weekends. We will travel to Mt Ida, Arkansas with our two other staff couples and the Waggoners, who will come with to enjoy the trip and help the the kiddos. It should be a good time! We are looking forward to it. The kids have started back to school and are honoring me by pressing forward. The promise of lots of new Christmas toys to play with certainly helps. We are doing some renovation and deep cleaning to the house - we have a family from Ecuador moving in next week - and are restocking and prettying up our downtown apartments as well. We have a new family whose two oldest children stay here in the evenings with us; they are from Bolivia. Their youngest sister relapsed recently with ALL. They are precious people and we have really enjoyed getting to know them!
In February, Mark and I will head down to Greenwood, MS to cash in his Christmas present - the kids and I gave him a cooking session at the Viking Cooking School. He's decided to take me along and have a little overnight toghether. I am looking forward to it! The kids are all playing basketball, which has been...a sight to see. They are enjoying it, which is the important thing. Hope January is treating you well!

Thoughts?

2009-01-06T22:24:00.000-08:00

OK - I had to ditch the pink. I think I was rebelling against the endless rain in Memphis. Not sure I love this background, either. What do you think?

More Christmas Projects

2009-01-01T14:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T06:43:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! So sorry for the lack of updates, but its been another whirlwind holiday season. Today we will join together with a couple of friends, and later I will start taking down "Christmas" (that is how they refer to decorations in the south).
More pictures soon!

the snowbelt

2008-12-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

i am remembering now where that extra 15 pounds came from during my freshman year of college at SUNY brockport. we are nearing erie, PA and its 15 degrees, gusts to 39, wind chill as low as 10 below. we are supposed to hit some blowing snow soon (the word whiteout was mentioned) which should be fun!! when we lived in this, i just refused to go outside. there is also a frostbite warning. more soon!

Fun sentences from Izaiah

2008-12-19T08:15:00.000-08:00

Izaiah has just started a new spelling program - he has graduated out of Explode the Code and into Spelling Workout B. In this program, he has to write a sentence using his list words. Today, I found this in his book.

All bad guys must brush there teeth.

I love it! We will deal with homonyms later.

Day of Peace and Rest

2008-12-16T09:11:00.000-08:00

Hi friends!
Most of you know 'my life': that it consists of nearly constant busyness and lots of to-and-fro. And that my house is typically full of people, at all times. Well...I thought I would share a little bit of what REALLY recharges me - a little slowdown.

Sunday night we stayed home as a family, made pizzas, and watched Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (which is now Mark's favorite movie). Monday morning I woke to Bella complaining that her eye hurt, and her eyelid began to swell. At some point in the day I learned that an ice storm was coming to town, so I made the decision to stay in and off the roads. The storm never materialized. So we spent the day cooking, baking, cleaning, doing some school, nursing Bella and sewing. When Mark got home, I had made a big pot of my Minestrone soup, that I haven't made in ages. We also ate about a hundred cookies that were left from our Christmas Party. We spent the evening doing a puzzle and playing Uno with the kids. After the kids went to bed, I continued to sew while Mark played on the internet. This morning, Bella's eye was worse, and we woke up and watched a taped Christmas movie - and this afternoon we are home doing some school and laundry.

You might this is a boring, waste of time type of day, but it is completely RARE in our life. As much as feel blessed and honored that God has chosen HFH for our family's work, it can be ridiculously exhausting and painful at times. I am just thankful today that God has given us a moment's peace and rest - in the midst of our life.

Blessings!
Mylissa

Channeling Grandma Abraham

2008-12-12T11:35:00.000-08:00

The famous Grandma Abraham chocolate roll...10 billion calories but really yummy!!

Where in the world...

2008-12-06T19:54:00.001-08:00

not that you were actually wondering, but I have been 'absent' from blogging to attempt to get ready for Christmas! We are headed to NY to spend Christmas with Nonny Margaret, and we will leave here Dec 20th. Before then I needed to finish all of my Christmas projects (not done yet) plan a small party or two, and order the kids' gifts to be sent to New York. And buy everyone a few more warm things, as my husband assures me it will be snowy and cold up there :) (the last Christmas were up there, it was 50 the whole time).

Here are a couple of the completed projects:

Funky little burpy cloths for baby Meena (cousin Nicole's baby that will be born close to Christmas)

Set of 6 placemats and napkins for my brother's family

Dishtowel set for Andy and Ginny's new house. There is an embroidered G on there, for Gross...but you can barely see it. bad choice of thread color on my part! Still learning...but enjoying it!

Rejoice!

2008-11-20T06:04:00.002-08:00

Happy Birthday Poppy Joe!!! We love you.

Hi all!

I intended to write a post today to ask for your prayers. Although I would still love it if you would pray, primarily I would love to share how God is meeting Mark and I right in the midst of trouble this day.

First of all, I won't go into great detail, but Mark and I are experiencing stress and pressure in really all areas of our ministry life right now. We have children that we have loved dearly that are in the process of dying, we are at that point in the year when churches renew their funding (and with the economy we know our funding will likely decrease), we are experiencing some struggles within our team...and yet some great advances as well. Of course, as we close in on the holidays, we are missing Gary (Mark's dad) more every day. I can't begin to imagine how Margaret must feel - and it hurts us to be away from her.

Yesterday, Gretchen posted a few new items she had created that were for sale. I quickly contacted her and told her I wanted to purchase this:

I just love it, and it gave me joy right away. And just to know that my sweet friend made it makes it all the better. Last night, when Mark came home from his men's group, he grabbed my OLD Streams in the Desert devotional off the shelf. He had bought it for me when I was pregnant for bella. We read through some of the prayers that I had written in there several years ago, and it gave us peace. This morning, I grabbed it off the bedside table and found this for November 20:

Blessed is he that waiteth. Daniel 12:12

Wait in faith. Express your unstaggering confidence in Him. Believe that if He keeps you tarrying even till midnight, yet He will come at the right time; the vision shall come, and shall not tarry.

Obviously the waiting part is so timely, but this: "the vision shall come and shall not tarry" is taken from Habbakuk 2:3, which happens to be one of the verses the Lord spoke to Mark through a Garifuna woman in Honduras in 2005 (call mark if you want to hear that story!).

And then I sat down and read over Mark's shoulder; he has been faithful to move forward in reading the bible cover to cover this year. The Psalm today was Psalm 118:19-27

Open for me the gates of righteousness;
I will enter and give thanks to the LORD.
This is the gate of the LORD, through which the righteous may enter.
I will give you thanks, for you answered me;
you have become my salvation.
The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone;
the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.

This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

O LORD, save us; O LORD, grant us success.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD.
From the house of the LORD we bless you.
The LORD is God, and he has made his light shine upon us.
With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession up to the horns of the altar.

So I wake this morning knowing that the Lord is with us, that He reigns, and His peace and rest is with me.

New HFH Site

2008-11-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

The new Habitat for Hope site is finally up!!

HUGE thanks to Chris from 1Perspective, and to Robin Cornett for so many of the pictures.

There will be tweaks here and there, but we are so glad it (pretty much) done!

Special Mom, Special Kid

2008-11-13T20:26:00.000-08:00

If you've known me for a while, you will know that special kids have a special place in my heart. Moms of special kids have an extra-special place in my heart :). Today I found this on Heather Bailey's blog and I was so impressed. Heather is a pretty busy woman, and to take the time to ease her daughter into this by creating something really cool...she inspires me.

My Precious Girl

2008-11-12T14:43:00.001-08:00

Help bring home Joshua Jones Carroll

2008-11-10T10:25:00.000-08:00

Our friends Ashleigh and John Carroll have been led for some time to glorify Christ by growing their family through adoption. They are in the process of adopting a baby from Memphis that should be born close to December 20th. They are asking for our help for adoption fees for their new little man.

Please visit the site here to help bring home Baby Jones!

Be Kind

2008-11-09T06:21:00.000-08:00

Found this on Abraham Piper's blog. Love it.

Be a Kinder Calvinist

Kid in a Candy Store

2008-11-08T09:10:00.001-08:00

We were driving down 240 south yesterday, and I spotted a brand-new Jo-Ann fabrics and Crafts on Winchester Ave! Oh glory Day! This is the first one in the Memphis area. I have already vowed not to enter the store until the Christmas projects are complete.

Just a couple of peaceful reminders...

2008-11-03T20:11:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite sections of scripture; (and one that I am leaning heavily on tonight!)

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Romans 8:18-25

And just a neat little missive Mark saw recently on a piece of art:

Live with intention
Walk to the edge
Continue to learn
Do what you love

blessings to you!

My kids weigh in on the Election

2008-11-02T06:07:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago, Bella: "Mom, who are you voting for?"
"I don't know yet, Bella."
"Well I think you should vote for McCain."
"Why?"
"Cause Sammie says Obama's not a Christian. I am voting for McCain."

This morning, Samuel: "Mom, I like Obama."
"Why, Sam?"
"Cause Izaiah likes him."

Me to Izaiah: "Son, why do want Obama to win?"
"I dont know...[about 50 times]."
"Is it because he's African American?"
"No...its because he always has a big smile on his face. I always have a big smile on my face."

Hmmmm. How 1960.

WooHoo!! We made it!

2008-11-02T05:32:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much for your prayers! We made it - fell into bed about midnight, and this morning feeling like the time change is giving us some margin. Today, we will make breakfast for the family downstairs, take them to church with us, and then have the day to relax (until I meet with my community group tonight!). I am really hoping to CREATE something today - have lots of fabric I need to cut. Just found this today...love it!!!!

HFH Fall Fellowship/FM 5 Year Anniversary

2008-11-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

Hi all,
If you happen to read this, I would appreciate your prayers today! In a couple hours we will host the 3rd annual Habitat for Hope Fall Fellowship. At 6:30, we will need to leave the house for a party to celebrate the 5th Anniversary of our church, Fellowship Memphis. The day will be LOTS of fun, but I admit to starting out a little wiped. We had a full day yesterday, and we tought horsey lessons and whatnot on Thursday. I am looking forward to Sunday, already :)!

Finally, something that makes sense

2008-10-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

I've been really careful not to start talking "election" here on the blog, or on the HFH blog. But I've been increasingly troubled by many reactions to this election and the campaigns...so many seem to be driven by foolishness and fear. For the record, it is true that I am STILL UNDECIDED. I have never believed that my faith dictates my allegiance to a particular political stance or party, and lately I have been joking that I am voting for Ron Paul.

I read this today; its an excerpt from Sarah Palin's interview with James Dobson. Its one of the first things I have heard regarding Nov 4 that makes any sense to me at all.

Dobson asked the vice presidential hopeful if she is concerned about John McCain’s sagging poll numbers, but Palin stressed that she was “not discouraged at all.”
“To me, it motivates us, makes us work that much harder,” she told the influential Christian leader, whose radio show reaches tens of millions of listeners daily. “And it also strengthens my faith because I know at the end of the day putting this in God’s hands, the right thing for America will be done, at the end of the day on Nov. 4.”

Amen, Sista! No matter what Nov 5th looks like, God is still in control! It encourages me that this woman truly believes that God's holy purpose will be accomplished, regardless of who wins this election.

Life as a Vapor

2008-10-21T06:22:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week here at home. Last January, Mark, Andy and I started a program to read the through the bible in a year. The guys are doing really well with it, but I've been slacking (somewhere around the minor prophets??). Recently I picked up this little gem at B&N and have really loved it. The devos are short, but really rich. I have made a habit of reading, mediatating and journaling through it. Love each of you...more soon!

Just for Fun

2008-10-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

First of all, HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Robbie, Jessie, Olive and Lucy Francis as they welcome baby Finn to their lives! What fun.

And this is just a little happy...I think these are so cute. Enjoy!

Happy little paper Birdies

I did it!!!

2008-10-06T16:20:00.001-07:00

Its true! I sprung for a new-to-me used sewing machine today. Thanks to Wendy for telling me about Shappley's! Great deals on previously owned models, and they even threw in a nice-sized box of embroidery thread. Certainly the nicest machine I have ever owned! It is actually on layaway...praying for the funds to magically appear soon enough for handmade Christmas gifts.

Sewing on a Sunday

2008-10-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

Caution: graphic images ahead!!
I finished Izaiah's bucking bronco flannel PJ pants today...I really loved the fabric. Sam is anxiously awaiting his matching pair. I didn't love the pattern - it was one of those wal-mart 1.99 patterns. It's really wide in the leg - this was the size 6. If any of you have any experience with pattern brands, let me know! I am just starting to sew from patterns (used to wing it on my own) and I really didn't realize how different they can be. I am thankful to have these done!

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2008-10-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

Happy 31st Birthday Daddy! We love you and are so proud of you...

First Day

2008-10-01T20:10:00.000-07:00

Sam's first full day riding his bike. Mark showed him 3 times, and off he went. He is now asking, "Dad, can you build me a ramp??" Oh my. And as to why he has a winter hat on with his shorts and t-shirt - well, I suppose that's another story altogether.

And just a really cute one of Izaiah...

Bella's Poetry

2008-09-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

Last week, Bella had to write two Limericks for her language arts work. It wasn't the easiest thing for her, but she was quite proud of these when finished:

There was an old man from New York
Who was quite a cork.
He was as angry as a witch
That's why he got a twitch!
He stabbed someone with a fork.

There once was a funny old bird
Who would never utter a word.
When he went to his nest,
He would often rest
As he thought about all he had heard.

-Isabel Rose Horrocks, age 8

Indian Summer

2008-09-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks have been surprisingly normal around our home - its been a nice change. The weather has broken - cool mornings and days in the mid-80's. I know this isn't the 'true' definition of Indian Summer but it feels that way around here! We've had school at home Monday through Thursday, Friday swim classes at the YMCA, and Saturday soccer games. I have also been trying to make time to get some exercise - and when I do, I really enjoy it. We also have had time to gear up for our new community group structure -and we've added our dear friends, the Waggoners, to our group which is great fun. We have a new family living with us, the Chupps, and they are Amish. Bella and Izaiah have had so much fun riding the horses with them, and we are thrilled to see the horses out almost every day! I can't take pictures of the Amish kids, so I will share a more recent one of Bella on my mom's horse, Jasmine. (Thanks, Robin for touching it up!!) We really need to be praying for Irvin Chupp; he is very sick.

Today we took a time-out at the Bartlett Days Festival, playing with the Ottinger kids. Great fun, and we all came home ready for a nap!

Miss you, Papa

2008-09-11T11:49:00.001-07:00

After a long two weeks, we are back in Memphis. As most of you know, we have been in NY with our family while we mourn the passing of Mark’s dad, Gary. It would seem silly to not report on the last two weeks, so I will do so to the best of my ability.

It would seem like Mark and I might have some experience with grief after the past 5 years, but when someone so vital and young passes so suddenly, the reaction of the survivors seems to be extremely physical – in the first two days we sobbed in disbelief, anger and sadness. We didn’t sleep – and our bodies actually ached from the shock and pain we were all experiencing. Once we were all together at the lake, we all seemed to be ‘searching’, something grief counselors say is normal but feels anything but. It seemed that every time the screen door opened, it should have been Gary walking through the door. I would catch Mark out of the corner of my eye and think it was Gary (Mark looks so much like his dad). Mark was having a hard time doing things that his dad should have been doing, like dealing with fixing small things or tinkering with the boat. I will say that I have never seen Mark grieve the way he was/is grieving his dad – I think, simply put, when you lose the parent you are closest to at a relatively young age, a part of you dies as well. We all were given the opportunity to see Gary at the funeral home independently before the day of the calling hours, and it seemed to me that he really should have sat up and gotten out of the casket. I really haven’t had that emotion with the sick or the old, but since Gary was neither, it seemed like the only emotion I could muster. The days of the service came and went, and we were immensely blessed by the outpouring of love and support from the community of Avon and our family. Many of our friends from high school paid their respects at the services or by calling or sending flowers. We never expected that, since we have lived away from Avon for so long now. After the funeral, we joined together at the Avon Inn for lunch and a time to share about Gary’s life. It was a precious time, especially for Margaret.

There were some sweet smiles from God in the past two weeks, and it seems fitting to share them. First of all, my mom met me in Dayton, OH to come to NY with me to help with the kids. Shortly after this, my dad flew in to walk beside us during the services. My sister also ‘happened’ to be in town, so she was able to attend the funeral, as did cousins and aunts and uncles from my side. For me, it was a major blessing and testimony of the love of a family for both of our sides to gather in honor of Gary. And then there was Ruth. Ruth Percival is Margaret’s sweet neighbor at the lake. Two years ago, her husband Bill fell into the lake and predeceased her. Gary and Margaret walked closely alongside Ruth while she grieved her husband, and now Ruth is walking alongside Margaret while she grieves Gary. Ruth is a precious follower of Christ who cared for my kids (as well as John and Paulette’s) without fail during the first week. She also opened her home to us – once everyone came to stay at the lake, we needed more rooms. I am so thankful she will continue to walk alongside Margaret in the days and weeks to come. And then there were the keys. Gary’s ‘junker’ truck had been parked at the lake for several weeks because he had misplaced the keys. Among so many other things, we were all concerned about the eventual moving of the truck. On September 6 we began to help Margaret move back to Avon, the weather was beginning to deteriorate rapidly. When we got to the house, Margaret went to put a container of Gary’s clothes under the bed. As soon as she did this, she noticed the keys right under the dust ruffle. She sat down on the bed and just laughed herself silly – she said it was like Gary was just placing them right there for her to find.

Mark has done a phenomenal job of working though some details with his mom, and getting her on a trajectory toward caring for herself. At the same time, he is continuing to work through all the many emotions he has surrounding the passing of his dad. Luckily, he loved his dad well, and his dad loved him very well. We can rest that there are no regrets.

The kids are doing fine. They have had some breakdowns, and luckily we have been there for this. We have talked them though their saddest times, and actually, we are glad for them. We take it as evidence that they are processing properly. They are not feeling this like their elderly grandparent just died – their papa is really more like an accessory parent to them. He taught the boys how to toss a football, helped them with riding their bikes, all sorts of things. Sam remarked he just wanted to cuddle with papa and watch a movie.

Margaret has done so much better than I ever could have imagined. She obviously has her moments, but she also has the history of a very strong mother who raised two kids after her husband died from pancreatic cancer. I think Margaret is already figuring out how to channel Helen Jobes – I think the remembrance of her mother will help her in this time. Margaret flies down to Memphis October 1 and will be with us through the 18^th. It will be a joy to have her.

Thanks for letting me process through some of this with you…and here I should also mention that today marks bella’s 5 year anniversary – she has been NED 5 years today. Thanks, Gary, for being a huge part of our road the past 5 years. We love you.

Back in New York...

2008-08-31T18:30:00.000-07:00

Hi all. If you follow the Habitat for Hope blog (www.habitatforhope.org/blog) you know that we have suffered a major blow in the life of our family. Mark's precious father, Gary Horrocks, passed away VERY unexpectedly Monday morning around 6am. We are back in Rochester, at Conesus Lake right now. We all survived the wake and funeral with the love and support of our family. My parents even travelled up to help us - they too loved Gary greatly. I will tell you that we are doing ok - the emotion and sadness definitely come in waves. Gary was incredibly full of life and a huge part of my kids' lives. I loved him like a father because he welcomed me as a family member 15 years ago, when it wasn't apparent that I was here to stay. Please continue to pray for our family, and lift up especially my mother-in-law, Margaret. To read Mark's eulogy for his father, visit www.habitatforhope.org/blog. We will be in NY at least a week.

TOUCHDOWN!!!

2008-08-18T13:02:00.000-07:00

The first day of school has OFFICIALLY been completed! I should have taken a picture, but words will have to do. We got through our "we love our siblings" scripture pages (tongue in cheek), grammar, reading, math, history and science with little fuss. In a week or two, we will start English from the Roots Up - memorization of Greek and Latin roots. Bella has started a writing program this year - Writing Strands - and I think we are going to enjoy it! She loves to write stories, but usually lacks a antagonist. Come on, whats a good story without some conflict?

End of Summer projects

2008-08-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

I hope the tail end of summer is treating you well! The last 10 days or so in Memphis has been much cooler (in the high 80's and low 90's), and we've been enjoying it! I started thinking during the winter about updating the planting beds in front of the house. The azaleas that were there had been there for many years, but only bloomed once a year. They looked sort of dismal the rest of the year. Here are the plants as they were ready to go in the ground. The first picture is the left side, and the next is the right. There is a perennial garden in the front, and butterfly bushes that will flag the steps. I thought I had a picture of hte finished product - I will post one soon!

Obviously, we are still celebrating our recent appointment at St Jude. Here is Bella enjoying her milkshake after her visit.

August 6th was Izaiah's GOLDEN birthday...turning 6 on the 6th! He had a great day -bowling with the Ottinger kids, a stop at Toys R Us and cake with the Beamons, Joni, and Ginny and Andy! And the best present of all - Mom-mom flew in to surprise him for his birthday! He was so happy for her to do that just for him.

And school will start in earnest for my kiddos monday. I am committing to doing a few "healthy" things for me this year, and so far I have started exercising again and sewing a little bit. Here are my latest creations; I found some decorator remnants at a shop in Canadaigua while we were in NY. Now that I look at this picture, I realize I some fixing to do, but I really enjoyed making these!

Blessings to all of you, and thanks for checking up on us here!

In Christ,
Mylissa

Mercy and Peace...

2008-08-02T15:58:00.001-07:00

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12

Some of you will remember that Romans 12:12 was the scripture we used for Bella’s prayer card back in 2003. So many of you have been joyful with us, patient with us, and of course, so faithful to pray…I wanted you to rejoice with us in this information.

Bella was due this past week back to St Jude for her regular 6 month check up. You will remember that her protocol called for the following:

Every 6 months CT scans for the first 5 years after treatment is over (Oct 04)
Yearly CT scans for the next 5 years (until she is 14)

After Dr Furman gave us the good results of her latest CT, we asked about upcoming CT’s. I had a whole arsenal of questions to ask regarding additional radiation and long term effects. He asked if we had any questions, and Mark said, “well, we were sort of wondering how often we will continue to come back…” And Dr Furman says, “you know, Sandy and I were just talking about that, and we think she can come back in January for her scheduled CT, and then after that she will be 5 years out from diagnosis, and she can go to ACT clinic.”

ACT clinic if “after completion of treatment”. This means she will not be scanned, she will simply be checked for any abnormal after-effects of treatment, and they will talk to us about how she is doing. She will probably go here for a few years, or until we feel she can be done. She will continue to be monitored by dermatology for any spots or lesions that could show up.

Today, I received our January schedule in the mail. On it is our “introductory ACT visit” appointment. Simply amazing!

For the past five years, I have lived with the thought that Bella would get scans until she was 14 years old. It really feels like the Lord is releasing some things in our lives right now, and moving us into another stage. All the glory to God, and so many thanks for continuing to follow us on this journey.

We love you!!

Bella's national TV debut

2008-07-10T20:09:00.000-07:00

Today we were contacted by a producer from a morning show on Fox. They want to do a show on the rise in pediatric melanoma. They found Bella online, and so they are flying us to NYC to be on the show first thing monday morning. Its live, so it should air about 9am Eastern and 8am Central. It's called The Morning Show with Mike and Juliet.

So interesting for us that this comes so close to Bella's scans and 5 year diagnosis anniversary. Definitely have some things rolling around in my head this time of year...

Pictures soon.

Vacation on Conesus Lake!!

2008-07-04T05:24:00.001-07:00

Several months ago, we committed to two weeks vacation in July. We really wanted to bring the kids to Consesus Lake this summer, since it was a huge part of our childhood. Every 3rd of July on the lake, they celebrate by passing out flares to the homeowners. Everyone lights the flares at 10pm; its pretty impressive! Mark's parents have a small cottage on the lake and a really nice boat...we are enjoying ourselves immensely. It feels really sweet to be away with with my family; we are thankful.

trying new things...

2008-06-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

I figured Izaiah deserved his own blog post as well. This week, we ate this week with the Steers at Bluefin. For some time, Izaiah has bravely tried Sushi with us, and now has decided its one of his faves. He chomped down a couple of tuna sashimi, shrimp nigiri, and two or three pieces of California roll. I really wish I had pictures to prove this.

Tonight, we tried a new place - Casablanca. I had been in a funk all day, and there is one cure for that in my world: Mediterranean food. For those of you that don't know, I am half Lebanese. My 'real' surname is Ibrahim - it was changed to Abraham at Ellis Island. So, we gave this place a shot. The Baba Ghanoush was excellent, and the lamb was fresh and tender. Izaiah, the foodie he is, bravely ate ALL of his Falafel pita (after I kept calling them hush puppies). We even had an interesting time talking to the owner about how maybe some day all three world religions will get along in the middle east. Somewhere in there he referenced Cat Stevens. He is from Jerusalem.

We are proud of you, Izaiah! We appreciate your willingness to try new things.

Watch out, Tiger!

2008-06-19T20:15:00.000-07:00

Mark got the kids golf clubs this week...and this was Sam's first time on the course. Nice shot!

Thinking

2008-06-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I did promise to update regularly, didn't I??? So sorry...its just been another crazy run of it. And now, I have to use this forum to get 'on the couch'.

A recent turn of events in our work life has really taken a toll on me today. I just am thinking through what exactly makes the life of a family, and how to know what God's best is for my life. It seems to me that even when we say we have certain goals for our lives, what really makes us is what consumes us. So...here is what consumes me:
1.) Habitat for Hope.
2.) Homeschooling my kids.
3.) My husband.
4.) Caring for and enjoying my kids. '

And so, you say...thats not a bad list! But when I look that list, one thing comes to mind: its all out of order.

It is so easy in the life of our ministry to allow it consume all of our time. We live HFH, breathe HFH, and it is the focus of much of our energy and time. I might mention that you dont see 'God' in the list, but of course its understood that He is present in each thing that I do throughout the day. Except: my life with HFH, my life as a homeschool mom; none of those things are capable of replacing a healthy relationship with my savior. I have been working on reading through the bible in a year and prayer-journaling more, but I confess its become a bit rote as we enter summer.

And of course, my husband should be at the TOP of that list. I again confess that the needs of this house and the ministry, as well as the kids, are capable of usurping Mark's rightful place at the forefront of my life.

Would you pray for me as I figure out how to reorder the priorities God has for my life, and the life of our family? I so want to be steadfast in His peace and love, and I know that comes only through prayer and obedience.

Blessings to you,
Mylissa

What fun!

2008-04-08T18:48:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know that I used to LOVE creating my own clothes...I was a self-described fabric addict. I used to have two large bins of unused fabric, and have had to downsize several times due to moves. Even though I am nearly starting from scratch, the sewing 'bug' has gotten under my skin again. I decided to try my hand at a little sundress for Bella, and was inspired to add yo-yos (which I now LOVE) from one of my favorite blogs, Heather Bailey. It really seems like the kiddos and I are finally reaching a place where momma can carve out a few minutes for something that really helps me decompress.

Thank you Mark for giving me an entire Saturday to play!

Next in line: matching pj pants for the boys. Fun!

The blessings of Family

2008-04-03T20:33:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend Joni and I just got back from an overnight trip to meet my new great-niece, Crimson. She is just beautiful, of course (she's an Abraham, isn't she?) and I am so proud of her precious parents. My niece Kristin did an AMAZING job birthing her, even though she was assisted by Pitocin. I hear she labored for a short 5.5 hours. Way to go, Kris!!

We also got to spend some much needed time with my brother (well, we only saw him for about 5 minutes) and my sister-in-law Allyn, and their four littlest; Grace, Tommy, Danny and Johnny.

Grace Abraham and Bella: post-makeover. Grace is 13 now; she was 3 in my wedding.

John Abraham and Izaiah-they had just finished performing one of many plays involving Rudolph.

Thom, Allyn and Izaiah

Samuel and Johnny enjoying some TV time.

The happy family! Poncho, Crimson, and Kristin Llamas.

Generations

2008-03-22T15:55:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that I was a late-in-life baby for my parents; my sister and brother are 16 and 17 years my senior. This means that my brothers' eldest two girls are just a few years younger than me. And now...I have become a Great Aunt at 30!!!

Congratulations Kristy and Poncho...

Crimson Olivia Llamas; born on March 19, 2008

Granddaddy Thom Abraham (my brother)

Kristin, Alfonso and Crimson Llamas

Sabbath

2008-03-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

Well, I never promised to update every day, now did I?

Early in Holy Week, Mark and I decided to fast from internet and TV on Good Friday and attempt to reclaim a Sabbath for ourselves and the kids. We had a joyous morning and afternoon - enjoyed breakfast together, read the paper (had to get our dose of Memphis drama!) and took the kids on a trail ride. It was a lovely day, and served to remind us of the command to rest.

2008-03-08T14:24:00.000-08:00

Redneck Snowmobiles

2008-03-07T16:53:00.000-08:00

After our first tryst in the snow, daddy came home and joined us. The snow was still falling (and blowing!), so we dressed the kids in every piece of warm clothing we own, packed them onto the four-wheelers, and took them to Mrs. Nancy and Mr. Dick's hill to sled. The experience of driving a four-wheeler in blowing snow through a slick corn field is one to be remembered! Our tobaggans of choice were 3 cardboard boxes, the plastic bottom of our dog crate, and the bottom of some sort of rubbermaid storage box. The rubbermaid broke rather quickly, and the cardboard got wet, but the bottom of the dog crate was really fast after the first couple of runs. My favorite run was when Mark and I rode down together, and narrowly missed Samuel standing in the middle of the path, only to take Izaiah out instead. We all ended up in a big pile at the bottom of the hill.

When we were at Vineyard in Fort Myers, our dear friend Wayne prayed for us to have 'belly laughs' together as we enjoy the fellowship of our family. After we got home, Mark remembered Wayne's prayer and thanked God for granting it.

Snow Day!!

2008-03-07T14:57:00.000-08:00

The past 15 years

2008-03-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

Starting a new blog is always an interesting task...most of you have followed our family through our daughter Bella's website or through the Habitat for Hope blog. So in the spirit of newness, I will go for the old...

Mark and I became friends at 15 and began dating at 16. We were engaged at 19, married at 20 and Bella was born when I was 22. Izaiah came when we were 24, and Sam at 26. Now we have arrived at 30, and last week I had a laproscopic surgery after which I was diagnosed with a condition that will challenge my fertility. Having already decided that 3 babies was plenty, Mark and I are undeterred by this new information, but it does cause one to think over the years past. During my recovery I discovered a small chain of folded paper that was given to me at my bridal shower. The premise was that each woman in attendance would write a small piece of advice on the paper, and then they would be made into the chain to be opened at a later date. I thought it would be fun to record these nuggets of advice here.

always have respect for each other

Don't let the sun go down on youranger, kiss and make up

Always work things out together. If you can't agree, compromise.

Never go to sleep mad at each other

Don't forget to have fun

Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. If you have a disagreement say you are sorry before you go to sleep.

Set aside time every day to talk about everything, no matter how big or small! Communicate, communicate, communicate!

Always be open with each other. Open communication is very important.

Keep Jesus in the center of every decision!

Always work together

Always be ready to compromise

Keep your breath fresh!

Love is a commandment therefore it is an act of the will not a product of our emotions. There will be many times when you will not feel like responding to him in love. It is then, that your choice to do as Jesus would do - will be graced will the power to do the improbable. (we love you mama bear! thank you for gifting us with your wisdom!)

You can have a happy life together if you keep up your sense of humor

Be sure Mark knows how to do all household duties like dishes, laundry and all house duties. Share everything.

God 1st Husband 2nd Children 3rd Keep Jesus in the midst of all you do

Never go to bed mad. Always kiss each other goodnight.

Communication is a key to happiness

Keep the lines of communication open. Dont imagine what your spouse is thinking. Talk things over.

Never forget about the ones who care

Look at things with an open mind

Always kiss before you go to sleep at night

Take things one day at a time

Find humor in everything

Keep your smile and remember how happy you are now.

Always count to 10 before responding to anger