God's Little People

School again today.  Everything went great.  Another new student.  She is reported to have aspergers syndrome.  She was very quiet, was able to keep up with the work and very intelligent in her participation in class.

Understandably I know very little about the syndrome.  Our great grandson was diagnosed shortly after birth, but he is thriving wonderfully well in school and is developing into a very bright young man, of whom we are all proud as punch.  Our little man is very mischievous, plays baseball in summer and is an all round joy just to watch him interact with others.

My new student will be no less I'm sure.  I know nothing about her yet.  However I'll give myself time as I have a few months to know her better. 

My story today is this.  It was the end of the day.  The children had left their last class, picked up their lunch box and was waiting in the waiting area for permission to go outside when their parents drove up to get them.

I was doing nothing in particular, when a little fellow so small with small glasses that fit tightly on his little turned up face, came to get my attention.  I leaned over as close to eye level as I could to hear him say, "Do you know what color my glasses are?"  He had taken his glasses off his face, where a band had been tied from one "leg" or temple to the other.  Expecting them to be difficult to keep on his face, this is a precaution a lot of parents make until the child gets accustomed to keeping the glasses on.

He held his little round eye glasses up to me, so I could examine their color.  "Well," I hesitated taking my time.  "I would say they are brown!" 

"No" he giggled.  "They are root bear".   Duh, now why didn't I recognize they were root beer brown? 
I had to agree with him, "They sure are, just the same color as root beer".  He started his story of what color root beer was, and how he liked root beer, and how he like his glasses..." 

I found an opportunity between his quick breaths to ask him his name.  He didn't bother to tell me, he started spelling it.  "C-h-a-c-e! is my name." 

"Oh, your name is Chase", I said with excitement.

"No, it is C-h-a-c-e" he protested.

Again, I said, "Chase?"

Again he repeated the spelling and I tried again.

Eventually I mustered some comment that satisfied him, until one of my 7th graders walked up.  My little friend grabbed the young man from behind, with his little arms around his waist excited to see the boy.

"Do you know him?"  I asked my little friend.

The 7th grader whose name was Chris, said, "Oh you have met my little brother."

"Oh Yes, we have been exchanging names.  He is spelling his name for me and I'm not understanding.  Want to help me out?"

"His name is Chance", Chris supplied me with the much needed missing letters that Chance had been so proud to spell.  I figured he was learning to spell and write his name in his kindergarten class, and saying it was too old fashioned.  Spelling showed how smart he was.

I love these encounters with God's little people.  Hearts so pure, and minds so open to learn, and as for Chance not afraid to approach an adult in a safe situation.  I always dread the day when they get hurt by someone who has no sense of compassion for a little boy who is doomed to wear glasses, and may be having to overcome other physical problems.  At his age he is secure, as he should be.  He feels accepted and loved as well he should.  I just wish that for all the other little boys out there with glasses tied around his head or not.

"Let the little children come to me..."  Jesus said.

Grammyof13

Blog postings - few

My trips to post have been few and far between lately.  Not that I've planned it that way, but as you have heard me say before, life happens on the way to writing. 

I've been offered a book contract to publish my manuscript on The Broken Clock (The Forgiving Journey).  So far I've had no one to look over the contract with me and from what I can see it seems the publisher would make all the money with a very small percentage left over.  I'm not disappointed at this point, I'm continuing to work and finish my manuscript.  There is a publisher who will take a chance on me and be willing to work with me.  I'm thinking of self publishing which will mean getting a sponsor, or coming up with the money myself.  There are advantages of doing self publishing, and after weighing the odds I'm not totally sure that isn't the way to go.  I'll keep my heart open to see which way the Lord wants me to go.  In the mean time I'll keep writing, and perfecting my story.

It is Saturday again, and the Journey through Prophecy this week has only gotten better.  There are still classes I will attend next week, but I have taken a couple days off to let my mind slow down and catch my body.  Or is that the other way around?  Anyway, I have taken every chance I could  to go back over my notes.  I think digesting it is what the scripture calls it.  Like a cow chews his cud, we chew on the Word again and again until it is digested into our heart to stay forever therefore becoming a part of our life without effort.

If I were a football watcher, I would be settling down to watch the Razorbacks kill Alabama.  However, I will listen to how loud Verlon and Cricket get in the bedroom, where I have banned them to watch the game while I put my house in better order.  When my husband gets excited about a touch down or a 1st down (or whatever jargon they use) Cricket gets equally excited.  They are a hoot. 

Have a good week-end and thanks for stopping by.

Grammyof13

Ramblings.

Another day at the Academy went wonderfully well.  I never cease to be amazed at kids from all walks of life and how they learn. 

My 3rd and 4th grades of which there are 8 were all so eager to get into their class of history/comprehension.  We add writing to their curriculum and we have a combination that is interesting and challenging and fun.  I do have one who is ADDHD but he was so proud of himself yesterday when he got the words right.  I did pray before the class that it would go well, and my prayer was answered.

Then my speech class which is made up of 7 & 8th grades, went well also.  There is one who is outstanding in everything he undertakes, but is also patient with his classmates.  I don't think his intelligence is a big deal to him.  It seems learning comes so easy.  I love these kids who have applied themselves in their home school who have not accepted limitations.

Then writing encompasses 7-12, and I was so thrilled at what they did yesterday.  I decided I may have to take a different approach to stretch them.  I gave them the first sentence of a story, and they went in 8 different ways which shows the diversity of each of them.  The sentence beginning was "Through the open door..."   None went in the direction of the abstract or weird, but sensibly one saw a kitten, and made a complete page and half story.  Another saw a bright light, and finished the story concerning the bright light.  Believe me they were brilliant.  I'm just saying I may have to come up with a different approach.  It is only the beginning of the year, so we'll have to see what they can come up with in the future.

The Journey through Prophecy is still going on.  It has been the easiest school of learning I have ever attended.  Normally going somewhere every night would wear me out, however he starts on time, and goes for an hour and I can get home in less than 15 minutes.  I have been so blessed to make so many notes, and now I am ready to compare what others are teaching on the same subject.  There are many theories on whether the church will be taken out of the world before the tribulation, during or after.  I am still open to learning.  So far this has not been covered in the classes.  I have my own idea, with few scriptures to back me, but I am still open to more learning.  I know the Scriptures will make it plain in time.

Anyway, hubs started with the post office last week-end and enjoys it so far.  There are always adjustments to make in this life.  Do you agree?  I'd like to know about the adjustments you encounter occasionally.

Grammyof13

Journey through Prophecy

I love quiet Saturdays. My husband started working for the US post office running one of the big trucks of mail from LR to points beyond, so he is resting today. I woke up at 4:45am when he came in, and he was able to tell me he was going to like it. Naturally, I won't see Cricket today, as he has to stand guard at Papa's bed while he sleeps. They are truly a pair!

I have been attending a seminar called "Journey through Prophecy". To say it is interesting would not describe it. It has been more than that, and each night has built on the lesson from the night before. So many mysteries have been unraveled for me, and everything is scripturally sound. No hearsay, no "I think so" but proven by history and scripture.

I consider myself a student of the Word, and am authorized by my church headquarters to teach the Bible which I have done since the late 70's. However, prophecy was not something I delved into. Being a lover of history has made this series of studies very easy to comprehend, as the speaker is very knowledgeable in Biblical history as well as World history. They go hand in hand.


He is world traveled, researching the subject of prophecy and its fulfillment, from ancient archaeological digs, to museums in the Middle East, to interviewing historians, etc. He also owns a documentary film company, and with the one documentary film I have in my possession, it is very high-class work.


I wonder why seemingly few people are interested in Prophecy. Frankly, learning all I've heard this week, does not make me afraid because we are living in the last days. Instead, it serves as information and informing ourselves about any coming event is a great tool. How can one prepare for a flood, if one does not see the storm clouds and torrential rains that follow?


The Bible tells us that if we knew a thief (burglar) was going to come in the night, we would set watch and be ready for him. Therefore, apply the same thought here, if we know and understand the signs of the times, than we can stand watch and live prepared for what is coming.


It boils down to the second coming of Jesus. So armed with information, we can be prepared for that day or hour of which no one knows.


It is natural when we began seeing the shadows lengthen; we realize the sun is starting its descent in the West.


We know dusk and then darkness will soon follow. Historically it has always been this way. Why would we expect it to be any different today?

 

As we inform ourselves about the happenings of the last days, and what Bible prophecies will happen, we will soon know what to expect next, and next, and then next. It is not difficult, it is a matter of opening up the heart to see what the Word says, and not be afraid of what we can learn. The Bible is not meant to scare us but to equip us.

 

Anyway, I am getting full – though there is yet room for more information.

 

Trust you have a great weekend and week.

Grammyof13

Home School Enrichment Academy

The Enrichment Academy started yesterday, and I made the decision a few months ago to give myself to some young people who are home schooled otherwise.  My aim is to encourage learning, and maybe make a difference in a few lives who have just begun to live.  From third and fourth graders to seniors in high school, the age distance is great.  Learning however, encompasses all ages.  By reason of being at it longer, the high school students are more advanced over the lower grades, but each one has more learning they can add to their resume. 

I  love the expectation on the faces of the third and fourth grade children. Part of it is to see whether or not they are going to like me.  I look at their little upturned faces and wonder if  they will be able to understand.  I also pray I am not over their head, and that I won't assume they know what I'm talking about.  I'm not around many 3rd and 4th graders and have a natural fear of talking beyond their comprehension.

At the same time I don't want to speak below the intelligence of the upper grades.  Time will tell, and I may have to change my approach.  For sure I have goals, and have given them goals to reach for.

Implanting in them the bar is not too high to reach for.  Encouraging them that spelling is important, that speech is important, and will prepare them for life. 

It is a privilege to be a part of such a program.  I know I will be blessed for giving of my time to enrich the lives of young people, however my greatest wish is that I can make learning fun and interesting insomuch their lives will be enriched.

Kids are funny - we'll talk about that later.

Grammyof13

Salute to the Troops

Below is the article I wrote for the Examiner today.  I wanted to share it here for those who do not go to the web site.

Who would have known ten years ago September 1, America and its allies would be in a war lasting almost a decade? All because of what happened a week later American travel would forever change. Where once we boarded a plane with few thoughts of terrorism, in fact to me it happened in Israel, or India or other places around the globe, but not to the United States of America.

For those too young to remember the early 70's when Skyjacking was beginning to surface as a serious problem, there are many places on the web which gives history of planes that were bombed, and suicide missions attempted. Patrick Smith in on his column "ask the pilot" has listed in chronological order the "golden age of air crimes." A look back at some of the worst airline-related terrorism of the '70s, '80s and '90s

I found it very informative, as I am sure you will as well. Busy with raising my family in the decade of the 70's I did not recall all of the incidents he shows. However it gives us a picture of the events leading up to 9-11 when the tragedy of terrorism hit home. Too close to home in fact.

We watched the news as the hijacked planes hit the world trade center, and for several minutes as our televisions blared the news, we were stunned. First thinking it was surely an accident. Shortly however, we were brought to our knees when we realized it was a deliberate act of men and their country who were bent on destroying what they considered the heart of America. And with the second plane hitting another world trade center building, we had no question who was at the root. From there our televisions were not turned off for weeks - for fear we would miss something significant which would give us hope that we were going to be all right. Or maybe give us an idea of what to do as an American so many miles away from the many scenes of tragedy.

It wasn't long until every branch of our Armed Forces were at their station ready to go wherever needed. Security was heightened..Many canceled flights. Lives changed. Many were reminded of how important it was to tell our family and friends those three coveted words "I love you".

The fearless firemen went about their duties as they had been trained, protecting the lives of their city. The national Guard went to work without question. They had a job to do, and do it they did.

Whether the war started in the right place, is not mine to question. Whether we went to war too soon, or not soon enough, I do not have the expertise to know. There comes a point when we have to rely on the integrity of our elected officials, and my opinion counts only at the voting booth. However when our young men and women sign up for duty, they promise to go where they are sent without question.

This column is not about tragedy, terrorists or planes. Though each of these subjects inevitably leads to our Troops who hold their head high, proud to be an American, with the worthy cause of protecting the Freedom America stands for. Do they look back? Probably not. They deem it an honor to serve these United States of America. Those who have died for the cause? We especially honor them for they gave more - they gave their all - they gave their life.

Many of our Troops will come home to anxious waiting families. Even though battle worn, and weary, I hear them say, "I will do it again if my country needs me." The same goes for men who have made careers of being a soldier. Were it not for their senior years, they would indeed go to battle again. What other country can boast of such loyalty in its people?.

I want our Country to stay free. Thanks Mothers and Fathers who have blessed their sons and daughters who made a big choice of joining our Armed Forces. May the Lord richly bless you for the sacrifices you have made to our country. To the women who have become single moms for several months, so their husband could serve, I thank you. Then the men who have become single fathers so their wife could fulfill her tour of duty during battle, please know I thank you for your sacrifice.

In Brief may I say as I stand - "Salute to our Troops

Grammy of 13

Poetry.

I wrote a poem.  Not that I'm a poet, but it explains what my blog is all about today.

I've learned in my life,

with its trouble and strife,

That when fat hits the ground

It doesn't roll.

Instead there is a sound

it makes when it hits the ground,

It is more like a SPLAT

and however much it is

it lays flat!

If there is a slope or a hill

when one takes a spill,

Believe me, fat is not round

and when it hits the ground

It just lays there!

I didn't take poetry in school, and that is something I stop to write very often, but it draws you a picture hopefully. 

With all the medications I'm on - I look like a four foot two, with eyes of blue  green walking around.  When we were in silver dollar city, we opted for walking the hillside and byways and mountain trails.  Now for out-of-shape elderly folks, that was not the best idea we've ever had.   We made it fine, stopping to rest occasionally.  And really did do quiet well until we started out of the park.  Now regardless of how well I can talk, to describe to you in this blog just how I fell would take too much of your time, so just believe me when I say I took a spill. 

It gave me a few minutes to catch my breath, so I lay there on the cold ground and caught my breath!!  The on lookers waited for signs of life, before they did anything but stare!  I can imagine what was going through their mind - but I'll leave it to your imagination as well. 

Finally a park employee called a paramedic who came and his first question was "What are you doing on the ground?"  Even in my embarrassment and pain, I wanted to say, "I just wanted to kiss the ground...."   

Anyway, all is well that ends well.  No broken bones just sprained left hand where I tried to catch myself before my face hit the concrete.  My right arm is banged up pretty bad and has a bruise as big as Texas. 

On getting home Thursday evening late, my husband went into Atrial Fibrillation and was taken to the Heart Hospital in LR.  They kept him for 27 hours and sent him home after getting his heart regulated.  What a way to end a almost perfectly good week. 

Now to writing some more.  I'll try to brush up on poetry before I do any more.  Hope everyone has a safe holiday day.

Grammyof13