1st Day of School!

It's "back to school" for our two youngest children.  They were actually excited, but not necessarily for school.  Jacob is excited because he's a Senior this year, and Tyler is excited about football and FFA.  Neither are excited about the academic/learning part! Ha ha!  I suppose that's typical of most teens.  Actually it's probably true of many/most adults, too.  I know in our small town football is highly anticipated this time of year!

Because we had two extra weeks of summer this year due to our school ending in early May for budget cuts, it actually seemed like a long summer.  Those two extra weeks were great! I wouldn't mind us doing that all of the time.

It is also nice that the two college kids are still home.  It makes it not so quiet and lonely on this first day of school.  They'll be leaving soon, then I will have to get into my regular "school time" routine.  I usually get there after Labor Day.

I pray that these two boys have a great school year.  More importantly, I pray that they let their lights shine brightly for Jesus.  I pray that they are kind and compassionate to others.  I pray that they look out for those who may be sad or lonely.  I pray that they stay on the straight and narrow path.  And I pray that they always know that I am praying for them each and every day.

The Chronicles of Biscuit - "School Needs"

(I found this picture on my phone that Biscuit had taken of himself to send his siblings.  I thought it fit the story!)
The Chronicles of Biscuit - Stories about our youngest son whose nickname is Biscuit.

Yesterday I drove to Oklahoma City really early in the morning for an appointment. I called our two younger boys to talk to them. I told Biscuit to have a good day. He responded by saying, "If they're gonna force us to go to school, the least they could do is make it comfortable by having padded and heated seats!" I told him I was going to post it on Facebook and that he would have to endure the consequences of teachers who saw it! Ha ha!  I also said that they were welcome to straighten them out on the real budget needs of the educational system in Oklahoma (which are many).

After that conversation I got to thinking about how the people written about in the Bible would have worshipped compared to how we do.  They would have sat on the floor or perhaps just stood.  Maybe they had some benches or seats, but they definitely wouldn't have been padded and heated as Biscuit suggested for the school!  And our worship is different, too.  Most places of worship have padded seating, comfortable climate controlled air systems, and even more.

Biscuit thinks the comfort level at school should be "upped" to enhance the "burden" of school he feels he has.  Comfort was added to worship to please our desires and preferences.  And it's nice.  It's much more comfortable to sit on a padded pew or seat than it is to sit on something hard...like a bench at a basketball game. But does it enhance our worship?  Not at all.

My favorite place to worship God is at camp - especially outside.  When outside it's on a hard bench or even a rock on the side of a mountain, but it's my favorite place.  Why?  Because it's surrounded by the nature that was created by the Heavenly Father that we are worshipping at the time.  It's not inside a building that has been designed by man with materials made by God.  It is strictly and completely made by him.  There's nothing better.

When Jesus was talking to the Samaritan woman at the well, she asked about where was the best place to worship.  He answered, “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:21-24

It's really easy to get caught up in worship as being what's external.  The building, the surroundings, the large or small crowd...but what truly matters is our internal worship between us and God.  It's about our hearts and minds.  Sure we encourage each other through our worship together - that is part of it - but to worship in spirit and in truth makes it very personal.

We aren't "forced" to worship as Biscuit says he is "forced" to go to school (which at this time, I guess he is!), but God expects His children to worship Him.  And why wouldn't we?

A teacher made the comment on that post yesterday that if the school seats were too comfortable, the students might fall asleep and not be learning.  There's a spiritual application to that, as well.  If our comfort is more important to us than our worship, perhaps we will "fall asleep" as well and not be worshiping as we should.

Thanks for the conversation, Biscuit!  About the time I think he's outgrown these Biscuit stories, he says something funny!  That's okay. They make me laugh, but also make me think :).

The Chronicles of Biscuit: Rocket Scientists

On the forth day of the new school year, after getting  into the vehicle every other day after school and being okay with the new school year, Biscuit was different.  He sighed as soon as he got in.  I asked Biscuit what was wrong.  It seemed that one of his relative-teachers (and of his six teachers, four are relatives) had gotten upset with him.  I asked why, and he replied, "Well, I left my paper in my locker.  It seems like she expects us to be rocket scientists!"  Holding back the laughter, I replied, "I don't think she expects you to be a rocket scientist, but I do think she expects you to be a responsible 6th grader!".  

It's not high expectations that are a problem for Biscuit, it's the 4th Child Syndrome that I believe should be a legally noted, insurance-approved diagnosis.  I'm certain it's real. (I have proof, you know!?)

By the time this same story was relayed to his dad, Biscuit had changed the story from rocket scientist to something a little more down to earth (pun intended)!  

Biscuit had to apologize to his teacher-relative, and actually I did, too, because although I had signed her class note, I hadn't even read it! If I had read it, I would have known he needed a pocket folder for her two classes.  Of course, Biscuit hadn't read it either.  Wonder where he gets that trait?? :) Hmmmmm......

As with any area of life, the key to being prepared is being organized.  The pocket folders (now in Biscuit's backpack for ALL of his classes, whether required or not) will keep Biscuit ready for all of his 6th grade classes.  We may just get Biscuit pocket folders for other things, too.  There's a great idea!

I remember when our oldest was in 1st grade.  I would wonder, "Is she responsible enough?"  I didn't have anything to compare her to, so I just figured that she was normal....organizationally speaking.... but then the oldest son/child #2 entered 1st grade, and I realized she wasn't as responsible and organized as she could have been.  And then came #3 and #4....all with different personalities and talents....organization skills varied from child to child.  None are rocket scientists, by the way, but each have managed to make it this far in life, so we're good, I think.

There will be many episodes of learning and growth for Biscuit this year, I'm certain.  But what a blessing it is for him to have teachers (whether relatives or not) who care about him and his classmates.  They want the best for him and all of them.  They have high expectations, but not too high.  Not yet have I heard any other mention of aeronautics within the realms of middle school.  In fact, I've heard good reports about this 6th grade class - from parents AND teachers.  Yay!

This is day 14 of the new school year, and not one other time has Biscuit gotten into the vehicle and sighed.  He might not always be excited about having to do homework, but he's liking 6th grade and being a "bigger" kid.  He's even claimed that another relative-teacher is his favorite because she DOESN'T give homework! And if she keeps that up, she'll be my favorite, too!! Ha ha!  But, I'm not sure that's going to happen. When I mentioned to her that she was the current favorite and why, she said, "Not YET, anyway!"  Oops.  Sorry, Biscuit!  But she didn't say a word about rocket scientists.  That's a relief! 

Let It Snow!

It's been pretty amazing around SW Oklahoma! We have had two big snows (big for us!) this year, already, and it's still on the ground four days later. With temps in the 7 to 32 degree range over the past few days, it's easy to tell why it's still here, too.  It's just unusual for us to have this much snow and for it to stay longer than a day! 

The snow began to fall last Thursday, causing the school to close early and letting out Friday, too.  This  gave our three boys a really long weekend of fun and family time!

I like being snowed in. It shows me that I'm not in control, or that any of us are in control of the weather. Only God is.  That shows His power and might!

Being snowed in changed some plans for our town....having to cancel our football state championship game and us having to cancel our church family gathering at our house for Sunday night. I got of online Christmas shopping done, which I wasn't sure when I would have the time to get some of it done - some that involved uploading photos...lots and lots of photos.

When the temperature was a little higher, the boys played and played. They scooped snow for building projects.

They played football. (This one got tackled!) The snow was/is really dry, so they didn't come in all wet like you might think.

They built a bucket-made snowman, with spray-painted eyes, mouth, and buttons. (Ha ha!!)

And they made a huge pyramid.

That thing is about 6 feet tall!

Yesterday I had them pose, right after worship, for a quick "brothers" picture. It sure seems odd not to have a "sister" in the picture!  She'll be home soon for Christmas break, so we'll have to take more pictures with her in the shot.

The boys had to go to school this morning. They didn't want to, but it's probably best. The way it looks, we may be getting more snow days in the future.  We all hope so, anyway! :)

The Chronicles of Biscuit: "Goin' Through the Motions"

Today I had to go to Oklahoma City, so didn't pick Biscuit up after school. On my way home, I called him. He was at the office with his dad.  It was an interesting conversation:

Me:  Hi, Biscuit! How was your day?

Biscuit:  Oh, good....you know....just goin' through the motions.

Me: Oh, really?  How do you just 'go through the motions' at school?

Biscuit: Well, you just go through the day, but you don't really know what's going on. You're just kind of 'there'.  

Well, that's interesting, isn't it???  Wonder if Biscuit just 'goes through the motions' often at school?  I'm guessing 'not' since we haven't gotten a call or text from the teachers or the PRINCIPAL!  Ha ha!!  (And Biscuit will be in BIG trouble if we DO get a call about it!!)

But Biscuit got me to thinking.....

How often do we just "go through the motions" as a Christian?  How many times do we worship Him, without really, really worshipping Him?  How many times do we sing praises to Him, yet not focus on the words? How many times do we partake of the Lord's Supper....a time of communion with Him, yet fail to focus on what He did for us.  Dying on a cross is pretty significant.  It was a huge gift that He willingly gave His life for ME and for YOU.

Maybe Biscuit's thoughts made me think just a little bit more about my worship.....and my praise.....and my communion with my Lord and Savior.  And just maybe it will make you think about yours, as well.

'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE SCHOOL STARTS

Note: I wrote this poem on August 18, 2010, for the first day of school.  Each year, on the night before school starts I post it again.  Tonight is the night.  What a great summer break we had!
Our three boys will be starting school in the morning. One will be a Junior in HS, one beginning HS as a Freshman, and the youngest in his last year of elementary...5th grade. Our daughter won't have to start school in the morning. She's bragging about it, of course! :)  No, she'll be going to college next week....starting a brand new, exciting life.  But, she's still in the poem!

'Twas the night before school started and all through the house,

Not a creature was stirring not even a mouse (thankfully).

The backpacks were hung on the laundry room hooks,

They would soon be loaded down with papers and books.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of homework danced in their heads.

And Dad in the bedroom had just begun snoring,

And I was still cooking and might be 'til morning.

When out of a bedroom I heard such a clatter,

I sprang down the hallway to see what was the matter.

Away to the bedroom I made a mad dash,

And opened the door, my toe I did smash.

The night light plugged in shone brightly in the night,

One of the children had yelled out in a fright.

When what to my wondering ears did I hear,

But children exclaiming, “It's finally here!”

With a kiss and a hug I calmed down their spirits,

And told them I loved them – they needed to hear it.

More rapid than TIGERS, the prayers for them came,

And I spoke to God softly and called them by name.

Be with Lauren and Zachary, Jacob and Tyler,

And guide them all safely - my prayers lifted higher.

To the kitchen I then wandered all calm and sincere,

That God would be with them throughout the school year.

I rushed through the cooking and baking with ease,

And got to bed early – I was certainly pleased.

But before my tired eyelids ever closed for the night,

I prayed for my children one more time – it seemed right.

In the morning they'll awaken, mixed emotions galore,

I'll miss them and think of them and pray for them more.

But I won't need to worry for my Father knows best,

That He is still with them when they're out of the nest.

Written by Lori Waugh

August 18, 2010

Ready or Not?

This morning I read a few scriptures before deciding what to write about, but everything I read seemed like a longer type of post material that I didn't have time for today.  So, I glanced through Facebook and  found a status that became my inspiration.  This post seems like it should be on our parenting blog:  "Parents After God's Own Heart".  Perhaps I'll put it there tomorrow!

The status began like this:  "From what I've read on my newsfeed, I'm pretty sure I'm the only mom not ready for school to start."  I immediately wrote and said, "I'm right there with you!"  In fact, I'm a mom that's never ready for school to start.  Truthfully, the only thing I look forward to each year is the extra-curricular activities!  I appreciate the learning that goes on, and of course appreciate the teachers that facilitate that learning, but I would rather my children be home with me.  Once it's starts, after a week or two, I'm supportive all the way.  It just takes me a while :).

Yes, I could have home schooled and have thought about it over and over, but we felt like in our small community, it was best for our children to be in public school. They can be a Christian example to those around them, and have been.  My husband works at a children's home, so we felt like it was only right for our children to be where they were.  Also, in our area, there is no home-school group that could provide group athletics and extra curricular activities for them to be involved to that degree.

So back to the "ready or  not" for school.  I love my kids and love being around them! I want them with me as much as possible because some day soon they'll all be gone.  In reality, we don't have a long time with our children, so as long as they are here, I want to spend lots of time with them.

I understand that if both parents work, it can be a hardship in the summer to find daycare, etc., for them.  I had that same problem when my first three were little and I worked three days a week.  That's one reason why I quit, even though financially we weren't sure we could do it.  But, it wasn't worth the headache of working all of that out some times.  But, you know what I found?  I loved being a stay-at-home mom!  In fact, I think it is the greatest job on earth!

Everyone has their reasons for wanting school to start, and some of those reasons are totally legitimate.  To me, though, the ones that are sad are when it is because of selfishness of the parents.  Here are a few "selfish" reasons I've seen or heard:

I need more time for myself.
My kids are unruly.
The house is messier with my children here.
I can't relax.
They drive me crazy.
And I could go on and on......

But, do you see the common issue in each of those statements?  In each one, the parent is more  concerned about themselves than they are about the children.  It's really sad.  And it's even sadder if moms are letting their children hear that they don't want them at home - that they would rather them be gone.  How do children feel when they hear those statement?  I know my children have heard those statements and have even felt bad for other children because of it.  Many times they've felt bad hearing it.

Moms, when you became a mom - at that instant - your child became your God-given responsibility. There's no debating it.  That child is yours to raise and love and nurture.  Please don't wish the time away with your child.  They'll be gone before you know it!

Ready or not?  I'll never be ready. But, sadly, next week....I must be willing.

Who's In Charge? (Part 2)

Yesterday we looked at "Who's in Charge?" in the family.  Today we'll look at "Who's in Charge?" in the school/workplace.  I may save coaching for its own post. (maybe)

So, who is in charge?  Well, in the classroom it should be the teacher.  However, changes have come into the classroom where students feel they have the 'right' to have more input into things and that they have the choice whether to adhere to the rules or not.  Over the teachers would be the principal of the school, but some parents - instead of sticking up for a teacher or the principal/school's rules, have decided that everyone is 'out to get them'.  Yes, there are cases where parents should and must step in, but for most disciplinary actions in the classroom, the child deserves punishment.

Here's an example:  Yesterday our youngest son came home and said he had to write 200 sentences - the whole class does.  I asked why, and he said that his class wasn't quiet when they were asked to be quiet.  I questioned him whether he was talking or not when told to stop. He couldn't remember.  Well, I could get upset and call the teacher and demand to know whether he was actually doing the talking or not, but in a class of 24 - with most talking out loud - the teacher probably can't tell exactly who is talking, just that it's loud.  So the whole class got punished and our son began the process of sentence-writing soon afterwards.  Obviously some students were punished that we're "committing" the crime.  Our son has had to be punished for the crimes of others before, as well.  Do I like it?  No, not really.  But do I understand it and accept it?  Absolutely.  That's the problem in America today.  Too many people won't accept it.  They're too much into their "rights" instead of just doing what is right.  Pick your battles.  It's not going to hurt our son to write some sentences or stay in from recess sometimes.  Maybe it will keep him from being in trouble another time.

In a job, who is in charge?  In my husband's job, he is the assistant director, so his boss is over him.  The board is over the boss and the work there.  My husband has several areas of his job and other titles, so he has other people under him who report to him or ask him for guidelines in their own job.  Under them are other workers.  Most companies are set up that very same way.  There is a chain of command. When problems arise, workers go (or should go) to whomever is above them, although in some cases there may be times when the co-workers must go above them to the next level.  Hopefully, though, it's not that way.  Hopefully everyone works together well enough that the chain of command can be followed as it should be.

So, where can a problem arise in the work place?  When someone is doing something unethical and wrong.  Maybe a boss or supervisor is asking someone to lie, or an employee is cheating.  Maybe those principles are overlooked and even condoned.  There's a big problem.  When God's laws are being violated in the workplace, that's especially when something must be done.

Other problems come from selfishness and pride....either on the part of the employer or the employee.  The Bible has much to say about the relationship between the two.  Substitute employee for the word slave in some of the following scriptures.

Slaves, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no partiality. 

Colossians 3:22-25

Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him. 

Ephesians 6:5-9

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.

Colossians 3:23

Take the time to read Matthew 21:33-41 and Matthew 20:1-15.  Both of these passages deal with workers.  

In every aspect of the school or workplace, things will run smoother and we'll have more peace if we submit to those above us....obey their rules and do our part.  Pride and selfishness will ruin the relationships in all areas if we don't have self-control.  When we look at the last verse written above, we will realize that all we do should be done for the Lord.  Thinking that we are working for Him - in every area - and not for humans, will keep our minds and hearts where they need to be.

More on "Who's in Charge?" next week.  Have a great weekend!

Small Town Community Spirit

There's nothing like small town community spirit.  Nothing at all.  Yesterday our small town honored our veterans, as well as veterans from all over America.

Our Student Council held its annual Veteran's Assembly yesterday morning.  The color guard presented the flags.  Always special to watch. STUCO leader and members dressed in red, white, and blue, and did a great job organizing the special assembly.  The speaker, a pilot for the Air Force, had a great message and asked the students for questions about the job and the military.  He was very interesting!

Last night was our annual PTO Fall Festival/Carnival.  Vendor booths were set up and one of my sons even volunteered to set at my little small business booth.  He did all of the setting up of the booth, too, because I was too busy with other things!  Thanks, J!

Our elementary classes each have a game in their rooms and get together a themed basket for an auction.  The 4th grade always does an OU basket.  The money raised helps the PTO do special things for the school all through the year.

This is one of the favorite games the students play.  It was loaned to us and we really appreciate Mrs. P for letting us borrow it!  It was made by her dad, I believe.

High school classes also have games/activities.  The Junior class had a fun obstacle course that many enjoyed.  The Seniors did a haunted house - something we've never had before, but was a huge hit!

Tonight is the first playoff game for our football team.  At the end of the evening, the cheerleaders had a pep rally and bonfire. 

The fire was so pretty to watch!  The wind was blowing away from us, so that was great, too!

My daughters' Senior class (about half of them here) got together for a quick pose at the bonfire.  Just another "last" in the books and in our memories. 

Thank you to everyone who helped make this years' Fall Festival and Carnival a HUGE success.  Small town community spirit is alive in our town.  We're thankful to be raising our family here. Go, TIGERS!

'Twas the Night Before School Started....

Note: I wrote this poem on August 18, 2010, for the first day of school.  Last year I posted it and so many said they enjoyed it, I decided to make it a yearly "Back to School" tradition!   Thought I would share it with you again.  May all of you have a blessed school year - whether student, teacher, or parent!  As a parent, I am GRATEFUL for those who have dedicated their lives to teaching our children.  *See note about GRATITUESDAY at the end of the poem.  - Lori

'Twas the night before school started and all through the house,

Not a creature was stirring not even a mouse (thankfully).

The backpacks were hung on the laundry room hooks,

They would soon be loaded down with papers and books.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of homework danced in their heads.

And Dad in the bedroom had just begun snoring,

And I was still cooking and might be 'til morning.

When out of a bedroom I heard such a clatter,

I sprang down the hallway to see what was the matter.

Away to the bedroom I made a mad dash,

And opened the door, my toe I did smash.

The night light plugged in shone brightly in the night,

One of the children had yelled out in a fright.

When what to my wondering ears did I hear,

But children exclaiming, “It's finally here!”

With a kiss and a hug I calmed down their spirits,

And told them I loved them – they needed to hear it.

More rapid than TIGERS, the prayers for them came,

And I spoke to God softly and called them by name.

Be with Lauren and Zachary, Jacob and Tyler,

And guide them all safely - my prayers lifted higher.

To the kitchen I then wandered all calm and sincere,

That God would be with them throughout the school year.

I rushed through the cooking and baking with ease,

And got to bed early – I was certainly pleased.

But before my tired eyelids ever closed for the night,

I prayed for my children one more time – it seemed right.

In the morning they'll awaken, mixed emotions galore,

I'll miss them and think of them and pray for them more.

But I won't need to worry for my Father knows best,

That He is still with them when they're out of the nest.

Written by Lori Waugh

August 18, 2010

*This post is linked to GRATITUESDAY at Heavenly Homemakers.  Join us on www.heavenlyhomakers.com
to see what others are grateful for today!

Back 2 School Youth Rally

The Tipton church held its first EVER youth rally this afternoon and evening.  It was a "Back 2 School" theme, and many of the activities and talks focused on ways the teens to take God/Jesus to school.  Many youth from Oklahoma - and a few from Texas - attended the event, plus our own youth. There were about 75 teens in all, with lots of adults in attendance, as well.

The first activity the teens were asked to do was to write down things that kept them from taking God "Back 2 School".  The most common answers were "friends" and "peer pressure".  Those things were discussed throughout the event as adults talked to teens about ways to combat those obstacles.

Several "teamwork" themed games were played.  This one involved moving a cotton ball down the group line by sucking it in on the end of a straw.  It was funny to watch!

Another activity was a spoon/ping pong ball relay.  Of course the goal was to NOT drop the ping pong ball and be the first group done.

My brother-in-law is our minister and he did an interview with one of our nephews, who happens to be a HS/JH coach and teacher.  Since many of the teens knew him from our church camp or school, it was perfect for them!  Travis answered questions about what he saw at school - in the hallways, the good and bad of teens standing up for what's right/wrong, things that he feels get in the way of the teens taking God to school....etc.  It was great!  He's a GREAT role model for the teens!! 

A side shot of the teens.  The singing was BEAUTIFUL!!!

Of course, with teen events, there must be food!  Here my son and nephew are having a little "cousin time" eating their grilled hamburgers!

The ever-important desserts!  There were LOTS!

My husband spoke on the topic "Choices".  He gave the teens some practical ways they can make good decisions as they go back to school.  They CAN take God/Jesus "BACK 2 SCHOOL"!!  Here he wasn't speaking, though.  He was getting ready to demonstrate how far he can blow a ping pong ball out of his mouth.  Teens need to know things like that, don't they??! :)

The neat part about the youth rally was that many of the teens in attendance go to camp together. This special group of girls are able to get together many times throughout the year, though they live in four different towns.  What a special thing to have Christian friendships that will last FOREVER!

The youth rally was a definite success!  Unless Jesus comes back before next year, I'm certain there will be a 2nd Annual "Back 2 School" Tipton Youth Rally!

A Challenge for Teachers and Parents

Yesterday one of my children and I were discussing something and they said something that really made me think. They said how it is very hard for them - as teens - to hear over and over about how bad their generation is, and how the direction of their future, as a whole, seems to be headed in the wrong direction. It seems that some adults - teachers and parents - think that by tearing down hopes and dreams, they will really be building them up and are encouraging the youth they are instructing. NOT SO! Just NOT SO!

Many years ago another one of my children came home and told me how a school aide had told them how bad of a class they had. Supposedly they were labeled, at least by that individual, as the "worst" class in the elementary. I quickly went to talk to the individual and also talked to the principal. I discussed the whole thing with my child - reassuring him that their class wasn't bad, but also talking about why maybe they had that reputation with a few...or at least one. The class is full. There are many in that class with strong wills and loud voices - my son included. But also, the class is filled with gifted, smart, talented, energetic, and fun children who are excited about being in class and learning each day!

I'm a firm believer in the idea that "you get what you expect". I live by that phrase as a parent - as a mom. I live that as a Bible class teacher. If I was a school teacher (which I wouldn't be!), I would live by that phrase, as well.

I believe if you tell a child they'll never amount to anything, most likely they won't. Yes, there will be some who excel, no matter what they are told and led to believe, but many others won't. I believe if you tell a whole group of teens that they'll never amount to anything, that they're all lazy, and that their generation is going to fail, many will fail. More will fail by hearing that than would have without hearing the insult. Those who don't have strong parental support or a strong sense of self-worth or God-worth, will decide it's just not worth the effort. They may give up. They may become lazy. They may raise children with the same ideas. However, if you tell a group of teens that they CAN make it, that they WILL make it, that they ARE worthy, and that they CAN be successful and good workers with a STRONG work ethic, they'll believe it and do their best to achieve it. Many will be inspired to rise above their circumstances and make a choice to make a better life for themselves.

 So, here is the challenge for teachers and parents as we get ready to embark on a new school year:

BE ENCOURAGING.

USE YOUR WORDS WISELY.

REALIZE WORDS CAN DESTROY.

THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK.

BUILD UP YOUR CHILD/STUDENTS, NOT WITH FALSE AND FLATTERING WORDS, BUT WITH WORDS THAT WILL ENCOURAGE THEM TO FOLLOW THEIR DREAMS.

PRAISE SUCCESSES - NO MATTER HOW SMALL.

WHEN FAILURE COMES - ENCOURAGE CHILDREN/STUDENTS TO RISE ABOVE AND TRY AGAIN.

INSTRUCT WISELY.

BE POSITIVE.

USE DISCIPLINE AS A TOOL TO TEACH AND ENCOURAGE CHILDREN/STUDENTS TO SET HIGH GOALS FOR THEMSELVES.

REALIZE THAT DISCIPLINE SHOWS THAT YOU CARE.

REMEMBER THAT WHAT YOU EXPECT IS WHAT YOU WILL GET - IN ALMOST ANY CIRCUMSTANCE.

REMEMBER THAT CHILDREN/STUDENTS LOOK UP TO YOU.

SET HIGH GOALS AND HIGH EXPECTATIONS FOR YOURSELF.

REALIZE THAT CHILDREN/STUDENTS ARE WATCHING TO SEE THAT YOUR WORDS MIMIC YOUR ACTIONS.

REALIZE THAT CHILDREN/STUDENTS WILL LEARN FROM YOU AND MAY LIVE OUT THEIR LIVES BY WATCHING YOU.

BE A GOOD EXAMPLE.

BE CAREFUL NOT TO CRUSH A CHILD'S/STUDENT'S SPIRIT. 

REALIZE THAT NOT EVERYONE FITS INTO THE SAME MOLD.

REMEMBER THAT IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY (AND MINE) TO WORK WITH EACH CHILD/STUDENT, AS AN INDIVIDUAL (WITHIN REASON AS A TEACHER, OF COURSE. TEACHERS DON'T HAVE TIME TO DO ONE ON ONE TIME ALL OF THE TIME. PARENTS DO....OR SHOULD.) AS A PARENT, IT'S YOUR GOD-GIVEN RESPONSIBILITY.

AND AGAIN, BE ENCOURAGING.

For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

'Twas the Night Before School Started

Note: I wrote this poem on August 18, 2010, for last year's first day of school.  Thought I would share it with you again.  Happy 1st Day of School Tipton students and faculty!

'Twas the night before school started and all through the house,

Not a creature was stirring not even a mouse (thankfully).

The backpacks were hung on the laundry room hooks,

They would soon be loaded down with papers and books.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of homework danced in their heads.

And Dad in the bedroom had just begun snoring,

And I was still cooking and might be 'til morning.

When out of a bedroom I heard such a clatter,

I sprang down the hallway to see what was the matter.

Away to the bedroom I made a mad dash,

And opened the door, my toe I did smash.

The night light plugged in shone brightly in the night,

One of the children had yelled out in a fright.

When what to my wondering ears did I hear,

But children exclaiming, “It's finally here!”

With a kiss and a hug I calmed down their spirits,

And told them I loved them – they needed to hear it.

More rapid than TIGERS, the prayers for them came,

And I spoke to God softly and called them by name.

Be with Lauren and Zachary, Jacob and Tyler,

And guide them all safely - my prayers lifted higher.

To the kitchen I then wandered all calm and sincere,

That God would be with them throughout the school year.

I rushed through the cooking and baking with ease,

And got to bed early – I was certainly pleased.

But before my tired eyelids ever closed for the night,

I prayed for my children one more time – it seemed right.

In the morning they'll awaken, mixed emotions galore,

I'll miss them and think of them and pray for them more.

But I won't need to worry for my Father knows best,

That He is still with them when they're out of the nest.

Written by Lori Waugh

August 18, 2010

End of School - Hip, Hip, Hooray!

Gratituesday for this week is simple and sure:  It's the end of school and my family. and many, many others, are super-excited!!  The busy, hectic schedules will be gone for a while.  The sleeping in a little bit (sometimes a lot!) later will be enjoyed by all of us (except for my husband, who never veers far from his 4:30 a.m. alarm).

For the past few years, our church family has hosted a hamburger/hot dog cookout at the school.  It's a special treat for all of the school staff and 6th - 12th grade students. (Thanks to all who helped with this event!)

Today was the last day of school for all those students who are exempt from semester tests.  As a special afternoon activity the students in 6th - 11th grade had fun with a water-balloon competition.  Obviously the students had lots of fun hitting each other and getting wet!  It was a hot and humid day, so the activity was welcomed fun for almost everyone.  I even saw one of the principals handing out ice cream sandwiches.  What a special treat!

I didn't get in on the water balloon activity - except for taking pictures and buying some balloons for my children, but it was an enjoyable day spent decorating the gym for senior graduation.....something I've been blessed to have the opportunity to do for the past several years.  (I love my jobs! :) I'm kind of getting sentimental thinking that in two years it will be our oldest child's (and only daughter's) graduation from high school.  Not quite ready to think about that right now!

As I think about this exciting week, though, it is with a very heavy and prayerful heart for the people in Joplin, Missouri, and in other areas that were hit by the tornado yesterday.  The devastation is horrible.  It is heartbreaking to see and hard to even think about what they are going through.  I pray that God strengthens those who are in mourning for loved ones, concerned about their futures, and who are without physical blessings, as well.

 God is our refuge and strength, 

 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way 

   and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, 

 though its waters roar and foam 

   and the mountains quake with their surging.

The LORD Almighty is with us;
   the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Psalm 46:1-3, 7

Join us for GRATITUESDAY at Heavenly Homemakers!

   an ever-present help in trouble.