The Beard Bunch

Happy Golden Birthday...........

2012-02-10T19:14:00.000-08:00

Andrew's golden birthday is tomorrow! He will be 11 on the 11th. First, I must say that I thank God every day for the gift of Andrew Beard in each one of our lives. He is an example to me of unselfishness and kindness.

His desire for a birthday party was to take some friends to Sky High, a jumping arena in our area, and then to have dinner at In 'n Out Burgers. On Wednesday, we took Andrew and 5 friends to both of these places, and they had a great time. It was nice to be able to take 8 kids out to a rather crazy location and yet not have any "episodes." They were great examples of what a group of Christian guys should be :)

Opening gifts after a burger and shake dinner.

Andrew exiting the foam pit.

Andrew entering the foam pit.

Wesley loved taking the lead on the dodgeball games.

Sadly, today, Andrew tried to do another front flip, but this time it was on a trampoline. He hit his head. I am thankful that there was no major damage. I do believe he will wake up on his birthday morning with quite a black and blue face :)

A Christmas surprise

2011-12-29T10:39:00.000-08:00

We have been travelling for Christmas this year. Our entire family flew to the mid-west on December 11th to spend time with both of our families----the Sturgills and Beards. I have so many pictures that it would overwhelm my blog.

However, I do have one special surprise. I was looking forward to having a white Christmas. When we got to Wisconsin, it was unseasonably warm (warm in WI is when it is more than 30 degrees). While I was happy to not have to endure the cold, I was disappointed that we had absolutely no snow. Brooke has never played in snow, so I wanted her to get her first experience.

We went down to Rockford, IL for a family gathering, and when we woke up one morning, it had snowed overnight. We were surprised, and I was ecstatic. The snow did not last the whole day, but it gave us a morning of fun!

We then headed to southern Indiana, and again, there was no snow. The picture of Andrew below illustrates the unusual weather. But, again, one morning, we woke up to snow falling. It was nice to see it actually coming down. Again, it only lasted one day, but gave us plenty of time to enjoy. My mom had people praying that her California grandchildren would get snow for Christmas. Several of them told me that the weathermen were not expecting this snow. Truly, a miracle from God for this California crew!

We got enough snow to make snow cream---YUM!!!!

Fall Pictures

2011-11-18T13:03:00.000-08:00

As the week of Thanksgiving approaches, I am starting to anticipate our trip to the mid-west. We will be leaving for 4 weeks for Christmas! We are going to be seeing family and friends in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Tennessee. We are all looking forward to the snow. It is the first time in my life I really wanted Wisconsin and Indiana to get TONS of snow!!!!!!

So, I realize that I needed to post some of our fall pictures. I love fall! It starts to cool down in Southern CA, and the crisp ocean air is refreshing.

The first pictures were from when my parents visited in October.

A friend from college contacted me that she was visiting the area. It was great to get together for dinner with her and her husband. Liesa (Woywoda) Guenther and I were great friends in our first year of college, but it was great to re-connect in person.

The kids had Thanksgiving chapel yesterday. Andrew's class was doing some recitations, and they were asked to dress up like either Pilgrims or Indians. Andrew took it upon himself to create a Pilgrim outfit (this is one of my least favorite things to do---costumes), and I was pretty impressed with his results. Of course, Wesley thought he looked more like a black leprechaun, but he was the hit of his class.

Brooke gets baptized

2011-10-03T18:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was an exciting day for the youngest member of our household! A couple of weeks ago, when I learned that we would be having a baptism service on October 2nd, I asked Brooke if she was ready to be baptized. She had attended the last class for kids on baptism, and she had completed a workbook on it, and we had talked about it with her. However, fear was the main reason that she gave for postponing this event.

When I asked her, she initially stated, "I don't know. I think I will be very afraid." I told her that sometimes it is scary to do the right thing, but I wanted her to consider doing it, and I let her think about it. She came back to me a few moments later, with a very brave face, and she told me that she had decided that she should get baptized now.

After she was done yesterday, I told her how glad I was to see her get baptized, and how proud I was of her for doing the right thing even if it was scary. She said, "It really wasn't so scary. I am proud of me too.......Well, not too proud :)"

I am thankful for her testimony in front of our church and even more in front of her classmates and friends each day.

First Birthday

2011-09-18T20:05:00.001-07:00

I remember each of my kid's first birthdays, vividly. They did not do too much with opening presents, but they sure loved to dig into their cake. Well, we had another first birthday this past week. It was our puppy's first birthday. He had much the same reaction.

Yes, we celebrated our dog's birthday. We do not know his exact date of birth, but we did some speculating and calculating and have decided upon September 15th. We were very excited.....he was unaware. I know what you may be thinking, but hey, there does not have to be much reason for us to have cupcakes and a bit of a party!!!!

The kids suggested using peanut butter for frosting; yes, Buddy LOVES peanut butter! He licked the entire top of the cupcake before devouring the rest of it!

Wesley wrapped his present in newspaper, but Buddy was not interested in the present. He wanted more cupcake. We opened it, and he eventually ran off with the orange bone, a squeaky orange bone.

I think in the picture above he is still licking peanut butter off of his face. Happy Birthday, Buddy! We are happy to have you in our home.

Beginning of another year of school

2011-08-27T16:40:00.000-07:00

They are getting older, as we all know happens, but I am most readily reminded of this each year when I send them off to their first day of a new grade of school. It especially surprised me that my youngest is in third grade. I am thankful for the great Christian school that they are able to attend. They all have good friends and amazing teachers with a strong academic program. Wesley is in 7th grade; Andrew now entering 5th grade (last year of elementary); and as I said before, Brooke is going into 3rd grade.

Though starting school was a big part of their month, I think the biggest hi-light occurred this week. The Cowboys do their pre-season training in our town, and Gary recently learned that the New Orleans Saints would also be doing some of their pre-season training in our city. Wesley's favorite player is Drew Brees, so we were quite excited to tell them about it. Gary took them on Thursday, but they could not get any signatures. Yesterday, I took them after to school to get bracelets that let them in for autographs, and Gary took them back after practice. When I came home Friday night (I had my own girl's night out!), they were ecstatic about their signatures. Andrew got Drew Brees to sign his football jersey, and Wesley caught one of the player's gloves that he threw out to the audience during practice. The pictures below are some of my favorites, but Gary has enough to make a whole album :)

In the two above, the head is Wesley's head. He is getting autographs from Chase Daniel and Drew Brees. "GO SAINTS!" (That is Wesley's call).

Griffith Observatory

2011-08-15T17:59:00.000-07:00

It is so often true that a person can live in a place but never do the "tourist attractions." While we live near one of the biggest tourist places in America, we do rarely visit these places. I have been wanting to go to the Griffith Observatory for awhile, so we ended our summer times with a visit. It was a cloudy day, but it gave a beautiful view of LA, and the clearest view I have ever seen of the notorious Hollywood sign. Yes, most of the people who were visiting were speaking foreign languages. We enjoyed our visit, and better yet, did not have to drive far to get home :)

Wesley's last year as a kid......

2011-07-22T14:16:00.000-07:00

July 21st was Wesley's birthday. When he woke up yesterday, I told him, "Happy Birthday!", and I informed him that he was entering his last year as an official kid. After this, he will be a teen or an adult. He just smirked :)

Gary and I had been scheming to try to keep a surprise from the kids. We bought mountain bikes for Wesley and Gary. We gave Wesley his bike for his birthday. We also re-did Wesley's old bike and wanted to let Andrew use that for riding. They have plans of riding through many of the mountain trails that they hiked last summer.

We also spent some of the day at one of Wesley's favorite spots: Sky High Sports. We had been there earlier in the summer, but we wanted to revisit. Wesley and Andrew dominated the dodge ball pit!

Nothing like a big jump into a pit of foam!!! Sounds like fun no matter how old you are :)

Here is to Wesley and a great 12th year! We love you, bud!

Mid-summer check up

2011-07-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

Wow....the summer is flying by, particularly since we do not have that long of a summer at our house. However, I have been bad at posting pictures, so I want to do a mid-summer catch up to share some of our pictures and events.

One thing that has been particularly fun for me was the fact that I, for the first time, have one of my children as one of my students in a college class. Yes, Wesley is only 11, but he was able to take my pre-algebra class for the summer. He has done amazing! Since he is tall and big for his age, he does not look totally out of place. He also has a friend joining him. Now, they want to take Elementary Algebra with me in the fall. I think that might conflict with their normal school schedule, though. He is off to an early start at getting college credits, but I really love his ambition! He has enjoyed having me as a professor, too :)

Over the weekend of the 4th of July, we took a get away to Orange County. It was quick, but it was an adventure! I do a calendar for the kids each summer, so they have activities to look forward to, and I have events planned out (which helps avoid the last minute "what are we doing today, mom?"). Enjoy the pictures!

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Indoor Go-Kart Racing

Irvine Spectrum---we all rode on the ferris wheel

Wesley at Univerasal Studios Citywalk

Each of the kids got balloons---they were the coolest ever! Andrew got a
spider. Wesley got Buzz Lightyear, and Brooke got a monkey in a banana tree.

Sunset at Balboa Island

One important thing for me each summer is to get a good challenging Bible book. I do Bible studies with my small group through out the year, and I really miss that in the summer. Our Sunday morning group started a study with John Ortberg---"The Me you were meant to be". I ordered the book and started reading it this week. The following paragraph really challenged me, and I wanted to share it with you. I hope you are finding ways to be spiritually challenged this summer. From the book, "Me: the me I want to be....becoming God's best version of you"

"God designed you to be you. When your life is over, He will not ask you why you weren't Moses or David or Esther or Daniel. If you don't pursue your own life, He will ask why you weren't you. God designed us to delight in our actual lives. When I am growing toward the me I want to be, I am being freed from the me I pretend to be. I am no longer trying to convince people I am important while secretly fearing I am not.

Only God knows your full potential, and He is guiding you toward that best version of yourself all the time. He has many tools and is never in a hurry. That can be frustrating for us, but even in our frustration, God is at work to produce patience in us. He never gets discouraged by how long it takes, and He delights every time you grow. Only God can see the best version of you, and He is more concerned with you reaching your full potential than you are!"

Welcome summer!

2011-06-17T18:03:00.000-07:00

Wesley tossing one at the Dodge Ball Pit

Brooke's hair raising experience in the trampolines

Andrew jumping into the foam pit

To kick off our summer, I took the kids to one of the new places to play: Sky High Sports. Wesley had been there on a couple of occasions, but Brooke and Andrew were eager to try it out. We had a blast! I realized that my kids are pretty flexible and aerodynamic :) Another good advantage: it is alot of exercise to jump around that much. I think that they will sleep well tonight!

Hopefully, I will get many pictures posted this summer. I have been somewhat negligent in posting, but I will get back to it. (That's for you, Mom S and Mom B!)

A Birthday Celebration

2011-04-21T22:40:00.000-07:00

This week included my 40th birthday. I want to thank all of the friends who sent me greetings on facebook; it was so fun to read through your messages.

One of my favorite parts of this 40th birthday celebration was when I received a package from my mother which included 40 cards from family and friends. Some made me cry; others made me laugh; and some made me feel old :) Thanks so much. It was extra special to hear from so many people that I have had the privilege of crossing paths with at some time in my 40 years.

I thank God for the many people who have taught me so much about life.

All of the 40 cards inspired me to write the following list. 40 things that I have learned about life (in no particular order):

1. Everyone needs to have a favorite pair of jeans.

2. If I do not enjoy the exercise, I will eventually stop doing it. I love to walk. I now have a habit of walking 3 mornings a week, and it's a great way to start the day.

3. Distance is just an easy excuse for not keeping in touch. It is not a legitimate one.

4. God made family, and extended family is a necessary part of life. I would not trade the Rehfeldt/Sturgill clan for anything!

5. If nothing else in your day is going well, you can always get a grande mocha frappucino. It is always good!

6. Love the job you have (or else start looking for another one). I love what I do, and the fact that I get paid for it is just a necessary benefit.

7. I love to sing! I don't do it in the shower (normally), but I do sing everywhere else.

8. Kids should not be a distraction. They are one of the most important things in a parent's life. I should not be annoyed by them (even though it is nice to use the restroom in peace occasionally).

9. Everyone on earth has a place that is their paradise. I am glad I found mine (southern CA) before I got too old to enjoy it.

10. I need to keep blogging, even if I think that no one is reading it.

11. Dog's truly are a man's best friend. They are loyal and easy to please.

12. Living with diabetes gives me a great perspective on our amazing bodies, and my dependence upon God for each moment.

13. Nothing in life has taught me to be unselfish and patient like marriage.

even if the connection is not current.

15. I really only need to care about God's opinion of me.

16. I sleep much better than the average person. I have slept through earthquakes, thunderstorms, children crying, and dogs barking.

17. Bible study is much better than Bible reading.

18. I lose my keys way too much.

19. People really do like to see a smile or a simple word of encouragement.

20. I have learned to love coupons. Clipping them is like clipping money.

21. Every believer needs a supportive church family.

22. It is good idea to carry a cell phone at all times. It is even more helpful to turn it on!

23. Bath n Body works is the best store in any mall.

24. I am pretty sure that my taste buds are Mexican.

25. Algebra is not useful in most lives, but as a math teacher, it is good to see the way that the processes teach a person to be logical and analytical.

26. It is not necessary to know how things work. It is just good to know how to use them (computers, for example).

27. 40 may be a good time to start coloring my hair.

28. Everyone should take a trip to Europe some time in their life. I am glad I did!

29. When I am reacting, it is better to just keep my mouth shut.

30. When the traffic light says, "Photo enforced," it is best to stop, even at a yellow light.

31. Do not judge a person based on appearance.

32. No matter how hard a circumstance in my life may be, I know that God is always good, and I will be better (maybe not today, but it will happen).

33. Watching television is the best way for me to relax. It is the only thing that gives my mind a break.

34. Sunsets are much better than sunrises.

35. If I have not worn an item of clothing in a couple months, I should probably just throw it out.

36. If I am serious about losing some weight, I am going to have to get used to being hungry.

37. Pedicures are worth every cent!

38. Anyone can get a book published.

39. Starburst jelly beans are the world's best candy.

40. It does not matter how old you are; what matters is how old you act!

So, which one do you like the best???

To Know You

2011-04-06T15:51:00.000-07:00

Every once in awhile, you hear a song that really captures what you are feeling. I must admit, as a young person, I found this true in secular songs often. I had the same experience this past week. A song that I have had for awhile, just grabbed my attention and the words catapulted in my heart.

"More than my next breath
More than life or death
All I'm reaching for, I live my life to know you more."

The song is a "nice song," and I must admit I hurriedly listened to it in the past and thought, "How nice!" Let the words really penetrate your thoughts, though. If this is the true prayer of any Christian's life, then he has much to declare to the world and much to remember each day.

"All this life could offer me, could not compare to you
Compare to you
And I count it all as lost, compared to knowing you
Knowing you"

The world offers much, and we often get absorbed by what it has to offer. It is nice to have a verbal reminder (in song) that there is so much more. Enjoy, as I have repeatedly over the course of the past week!

Annual Jog-a-thon

2011-03-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of the family members who helped support Wesley, Andrew, and Brooke and their school (Ventura Missionary School) as they completed a jog-a-thon. I wanted to post a few pictures of the event and to especially thank my more than generous family members :)

Brooke needed a little break after she had completed all 20 laps.

I was busy counting laps when Andrew was jogging. However, he was more than happy to "pose" for some pretend jogging pictures afterwards. Yes, those are Doritos in his hand! Not too brag to much on the kid (ok, maybe a little), but Andrew was the first one to complete all 20 laps. He was running with 40 fourth graders and 45 fifth graders. I asked Andrew if he was interested in running track, and he said, "No! it was too boring."

End of another Upward Season

2011-02-27T14:39:00.001-08:00

Saturday was our last day of games for the current Upward basketball season at our church. This program is an amazing opportunity for our church to reach out to the community. Andrew enjoyed his 5th season of basketball. His skills improved and his love for the game did as well. Thanks to a great coach who helped Andrew learn the game even better. Andrew was glad to be joined by a couple of friends from school as well.

I had the privilege of coaching a cheerleading squad, consisting of first and second graders. Of course, Brooke was the "best cheerleader" on the squad :) It was our first year of having the cheerleading program included, and I loved it. We learned a pom pom routine to do at half time, and you would have been impressed with their great job! Gary has it on video; maybe, I will get it uploaded some day.

Another one turns a decade

2011-02-12T15:36:00.000-08:00

Andrew turned 10 yesterday. Another one of my children hits the double digits :) Andrew invited three friends over to spend the night. I led the kids in an event of different games from the show, Minute to Win it. It was fun! The kids enjoyed practicing and completing the rounds.

Stacking the cups and then taking them down without falling was Andrew's favorite feat.
When I asked Andrew what kind of birthday cake he wanted, he said "dirt cake." Now, dirt cake is not really a cake. So, we decided to play it up good and tell his friends that I dropped the cake, and that we would just have to settle for eating some dirt. Andrew then proceeded to take a spoon and eat out of the potted plant in the center of the table. The kids loved it! A few moments later, one of Andrew's friends asked me, "Can I have some more dirt!" It did feel weird to have no birthday candles.

I just had to post a more recent picture of our newest addition. This just can't be a good thing (a dog with a balloon) :)

What a super weekend!!!!

2011-02-12T15:24:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to get this post up, but it has been a super busy week. Anyway, it was a Super weekend at our house this past weekend. Of course, the most obvious reason to anybody would be the fact that the Packers won the Super Bowl. Our whole house was quite excited for this victory.

At church that morning, however, we had a special visitor---Mike Penberthy. He was a former Los Angeles Laker who was on the team with Kobe and Shaq when they won the NBA finals. He is a Christian who is fervent in his faith and loves to share his love of basketball. Andrew is currently in his season of Upwards, so he was looking forward to having Mike sign his jersey.

Wesley got to try on the championship ring.

Another big event for our family was the purchase of a new vehicle. We have been needing to get a larger automobile, and the time came on Friday. Our Ford Explorer (which carried all 3 of my kids as babies) was nearly dead. Gary really wanted a jeep, but the practical side won out over the recreational side. See our new Chevrolet Traverse. It has already been so nice to have room to carry a few extra passengers.

And baby makes six

2010-12-31T15:26:00.000-08:00

Before anyone reads the title and thinks the impossible....that we are going to be having a sixth member of the Beard household, I must confess: the impossible has been accomplished.

You see, it really was impossible that Gary would ever let us get a dog. He hated the dog fur, dog smell, dog....well, everything. After getting Sherman (our betta fish) six months ago, the kids have been very responsible in taking care of him. So, for Christmas (actually more like a New Year's gift), Gary wanted to surprise us all by purchasing a dog. Let me introduce you to Buddy, our Border Terrier/ Chihuahua mix. He is just 13 weeks old.

Now, while taking care of a fish is definitely the world's easiest job---feed him a bit in the morning and change his water once every couple weeks. There is no clean-up, no noise, and no chewed shoes. The kids (and Gary) are ready to take on this additional responsibility. I must say, he has already won our hearts (well, not quite mine, I am waiting for him to not pee on the floor) :)

Christmas Moments

2010-12-28T21:41:00.000-08:00

Tonight before I sat down to post these pictures, I took some time to read a bit before bed. I was reading one of my favorite books; it continually challenges my spiritual walk, and it reminds me of what is truly important.

I want to post some Christmas pictures because that is just the purpose of this blog, and my mom will really want to see them :) However, I do have to add: this is not what the special Christmas moments were.

Let me share a brief part of the chapter I was just reading: "Suppose you were an extra in an upcoming movie. You will probably scrutinize that one scene where hundreds of people are milling about, just waiting for that two-fifths of a second when you can see the back of your head. Maybe your mom and your best friend get excited about that two-fifths of a second with you.....maybe. But no one else will realize it is even you. Even if you tell them, they won't care. Let's take it a step further. What if you rent out the whole theater on opening night and invite all your friends and family to come see the new movie about you? People will say, "You are an idiot! How could you think this movie is about you?" Many Christians are even more delusional than this person I've been describing. So many of us think and live like the movie of life is all about us. God creates the world....People rebel against God, so God destroys the world with a flood....God singles out a man to make as the father of a nation....The climax: The son of God is born among the people whom God somehow still loves....The finale:the throne room of God. From start to finish, this movie is obviously about God. Our scene in this movie, our brief life, falls somewhere between those acts. We have only our two-fifths of a second to live. I don't know about you, but I want my two-fifths of a second to be about my making much about God."

After a challenging illustration like this, I want to share my two best Christmas moments: The first Christmas memory occurred on Christmas Eve during our church service, with my eyes closed in worship and song to this precious Child. Secondly, I treasure the time I was able to listen on Christmas morning to my nine year old reading the familiar yet still precious Christmas story in Luke 2.

I don't mean to be "religious" sounding; I did have much fun with my family. However, the best Christmas moments were spent in remembering the main character of this season and every day of our lives: God!

Black Friday at our House

2010-11-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

Yes, like many of the Americans, I do enjoy going shopping on the day after Thanksgiving. I must admit, however, I do not enjoy going at 4 am :( Wesley and I braved the crowds and were able to find some great gifts.

But, the best part of Black Friday for us occurs later during the day. Every year on the day after Thanksgiving, we get out the Christmas tree and decorate. We also play Christmas music, watch Christmas movies, and eat yummy finger foods all afternoon and evening. As the kids are getting older, they also really enjoy this tradition.

Each year, each of my kids gets a new ornament. As we hung them on the tree, it was fun to recall the previous years and then have them hang up the corresponding ornament. I remember that in 1996 (when Gary and I first got married), our tree was somewhat empty. Now, we are getting rather loaded!

Here's to the beginning of a great holiday season with your traditions and friends and family!

The Hard Questions

2010-10-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

Rarely, do I use my blog or facebook account as a means of personal advertising. However, I do want to share something amazing that has developed in my life, and in turn, provides an opportunity for you.

I sometimes feel that I have been a Christian my entire life. I was saved at age five, and I never had to turn from a life saturated in sin. I can't even remember not being a Christian. However, being saved at such a young age and growing up "in the church" tends to bring a certain apathy to many people. I was no exception! I have always wanted to do right and please God and my parents, but I feel that my Christian walk consisted more of a routine that I lived out each day.

Over the course of time, God has been doing an awesome and patient work in teaching me to do more than just walk the Christian walk. I am learning to really LIVE the Christian life. In my pursuit, I have had several questions that plagued me. I thought I knew what the Bible stated, but I did not really understand the answers to these questions.

One example is the following: "Why Pray?" Seriously, if I believe God is sovereign, and His will is going to be accomplished, then what is the point in asking Him for requests. He knows my heart, so why do I need to vocalize anything? Yes, I know the Bible commands us and teaches us to pray, and so that is why I did it. However, the real heart of the question remained.

I dared to ask some of these "hard to ask" questions, and in searching for the answers from the Bible and other resources, I began an adventure that I now treasure! It is difficult to ask your pastor, Bible teachers, or parents: "Hey, why do we pray?" I didn't want them to think I was a heretic :)

I was tired of dodging these questions and decided to really search for the answers. Other topics that I studied include the will of God, the existence of God, miracles, the peace of God, and several others. My general approach follows the saying, "Leave no stone unturned!"

As I studied, I took notes, and I shared them with many others. Several people encouraged me to write a study regarding these questions, and that is what I have done. I have created a Bible study entitled, "The Hard Questions." It is a walk through searching for the truth in regards to ten sometimes difficult to ask questions.

The book is written as a study, meant for individual work or for a group study. I will be working through the book with my Adult Sunday School class females in January, and I am excited to see how the Lord will use it.

I now ask two things of you. First, pray that the Lord will use this book to help others, like me, who have questions about really living out the Christian life. Secondly, consider purchasing the study for yourself. I guarantee God will teach you something! If you would like to use it in a group, let me know, and I will send some other resources that I will be using with my own church group. The book includes questions at the end of each chapter (ten chapters) for personal or group reflection.

I have had the book published through Amazon, and it can be purchased online at the following site: https://www.createspace.com/3481296 .

Again, I promise not to advertise needlessly on my blog or facebook account, but this is just too good to leave to "word of mouth." Check it out!

Weekend Get-away

2010-10-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

Our family took a long weekend and went to San Diego. Of course, the main reason for the location was the fact that Gary had ordered tickets to the San Diego Charger's football game for the boys. We all took off on Monday and had a wet but fun day in San Diego.

Yes, when you arrive two hours before the game, you actually beat most of the people in your section.

While the boys were watching the game, Brooke and I spent our time at Fashion Valley in San Diego. It is a beautiful outdoor mall. Brooke's favorite purchase was her cheerleader from Build-a-Bear.

Hats off to a fun weekend. Now, it is time to get back home and back to school :)

Huskies Football

2010-09-22T19:03:00.001-07:00

The sixth grade Ventura Missionary School flag football team with their coach, Mike Ramos.

Get that flag, Wesley!

Wesley's sixth grade class had their first football game this evening. It is flag football. The good news is that he made it through the first game with no broken bones (unlike his experience last year in tackle football). The team did a great job, even though they did lose the first game 24-12.

We look forward to a good season of competition and fun with Wesley and his classmates (teammates).

....and his name is Sherman

2010-08-10T15:58:00.000-07:00

We have never been a family with a pet. This was not because we do not love animals or think that they are cute. However, neither Gary nor I are too sentimental in this area, nor do we need any extra thing to take care of. Our kids have lately been begging for a pet, mostly a dog. Gary gets very sensitive to pet hair and smells, so that has been a big obstacle in ever acquiring a pet.

This past Sunday, we visited some friends, and I really liked the fish that sat in a vase as a centerpiece on their table. They told us how it was so easy and low maintenance. My ears perked up! So, it is possible to have a pet and have low maintenance (cost and work).

Today, Brooke and I set out to find our fish (he is a Betta fish). We also created a similar home to the one that our friends had used. While driving home, Brooke watched him in the backseat and constantly monitored his progress: "He is doing good." "He likes to dance to the music." "He is doing the wamba, wamba" (a dance move Brooke named and then imitated his fish dancing moves). As soon as we pulled into the house, Brooke said: "I am so glad that we now have a pet. Andrew and I had two snails and three worms in the backyard, but the worms died, and the snails ran away." I hope we have better luck with our fish.

Oh, by the way, our friends had named their fish Herman, so we called our new pet, Sherman!

Ventura County Fair

2010-08-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

This just cracked us all up! He looks rather happy in that bucket :)

Andrew had the "win" on the second time down!

While we do often visit Six Flags Magic Mountain and enjoy those rides, there is just something classic about time at the county fair. We all spent the day yesterday at Ventura County Fair---visiting animals, observing booths, eating food, and riding fair rides. Enjoy the pictures, as we enjoyed our day!

Happy Birthday, Wesley

2010-07-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

Last night on the way home, Wesley made the remark that now he is a "pre-teen" so...... The thought amazed me that my oldest child is now 11 years old. We spent his birthday with some friends from church at a friend's swimming pool. We all got much sun!

Wesley really wanted a new video game (as pictured), and Gary really wanted to get Wesley a new set of clubs. Wesley really enjoys playing golf with his dad. Gramma and Poppa bought the bag for him when they were here last week.

Home-made waffles for breakfast---with a birthday candle in it :)

Wesley also had a party last Friday with a couple of friends from school.

I am so thankful for an oldest child who is a good leader and a strong advocate for what is right. Of course, he has his moments, but all in all, I am very proud to be his mother :)

The stop-over before China

2010-07-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

Mom and dad stopped over in the LA area for 5 days before they left on their 3-week trip to China. I considered "forcing" mom to use chopsticks at our house (as a good practice), but she thought she would enjoy her last use of the fork for awhile. We enjoyed the time with them, and will be praying for their trip and safe return to LAX in 3 weeks.

We had a visit to Build-a-bear workshops (not in our pj's).

The boys showed gramma and poppa their new skills at the skatepark.

Fun games!

We took them on a hike in Malibu.

Dad and I took on Wes and Drew in a nerf gun war. Andrew won this battle.

New summer activity

2010-07-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

As I have stated before (and many others agree): I love summer! I live in Southern CA, where it is nice weather year round, but for some reason, it is still just more fun to play in the summer.

Yesterday, Wesley was going to go play a round of golf with Gary, so I wanted to play with the three kids in the morning. I "happened" to discover a skatepark in a nearby city, that I knew the boys would love. Of course, I had no idea what was involved in a skatepark, but I was not to be discouraged from doing some adventure seeking. We learned that the park was open to bikes only at certain times, which Wes and Drew much preferred. I paid for a one-day pass to see if they enjoyed it or not. The question at the end of the day was: "Can we get an annual pass and when can we come back?" I think they enjoyed it!

I love when I "happen" upon some good new adventures! Thankfully, it is located in a community recreation area with a nice park. Brooke enjoyed herself too---just without the need for a helmet :)

Last week, we went to a park that has a zip line. Wesley and Andrew have been on "real zip lines," so I warned them that this was a small one. I think I downplayed it enough that when they get there, it was more than they were expecting :) It was a cloudy day, but still fun to play.

The official start of our summer

2010-06-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

Wesley and his best friend, Cody

Andrew and his best friend Sean

Andrew with his amazing teacher, Mrs. Wolfe

Brooke and her much loved teacher, Ms. Darby, and best friend Becky

It seems (to me) like they were just getting started in school, but the end of 1st, 3rd, and 5th grade is here. Wesley's teacher assured me that he was good and ready to get into junior high next year. I assured her that I was more nervous about myself getting ready for having a junior high student than I was concerned about him being unprepared.

The kids had 1/2 day of school, so we took off from there and spent the rest of the day at Six Flags Magic Mountain and water park (Hurricane Harbor). We listened to the end of the Laker Game on the radio on the way home. What a fun day!

Our gymnast in training

2010-06-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

Brooke started a summer gymnastics program on Friday night. She was very excited, and so was I to watch her go! She is going to be in a cheerleading program this fall, and she loves "practicing."

She did a great job. She is somewhat a natural (unlike her mother) and her body just goes and flows.

I need to work on getting better pictures, but she did learn to do a cartwheel. Well, she got over, but we still have to work on getting the legs straight up. She also learned to do a handstand and land on her feet----that was the challenge!

I could never say "Thanks" enough!

2010-05-08T19:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!! I thank God that he gave me the joy of being a mother. However, this post is not about me. It is about my mother. She has given me the great example of being a mom, and I just want to publicly thank her for that. My brother, Aaron, inspired me with his top ten list in honor of our mother. While there are many things about Aaron that inspire me (and many things that inspire me to NOT be), I just want to give a bit of credit to him as well :) Thanks for the good idea, Aaron!

My top ten list would be the following:

TOP TEN THINGS MY MOTHER DID TO BE MY HERO:

1. She bravely did the duties that must be completed with having a diabetic child: she gave me shots, she monitored my diet, and most bravely, she gave me sugar when I fought hard against it.

2. She humored me. I remember pretending to be different people as a child, and she always carried on different conversations with each of my "roles." (No, I was not schizophrenic, I was dramatic!)

3. While she so hates having her only daughter 2000 miles away, she doesn't nag me about it too much.

4. She gave me a passion for writing. I love her poems, and I know she must have thought my child-hood poems were stupid. However, she read them and actually hung them on the wall. She still has some hanging to this day.

5. She forced us to take family pictures. While this was with so much objection from all of the other four of us, she persisted. We now have some rather fond family portraits.

6. She was so creative. I don't remember all of her creations, but there are many! She was crafty at making gifts, and at making chicken :) I remember being told in one junior high class survey, that my best trait was my creativity. I felt proud to be a bit like my mother.

7. She now wears the role of grandmother like no other! She loved being a mother. Now, she still loves being my mother, but she really enjoys being a grandmother. How many grandmothers do you know who take walks with her kids, fly kites with them, ride bikes with them, read them endless stories, makes cookies with them, shoot them to the moon, sings with them, teaches them Bible truths, and gives them their baths? And, that is just the end of day #1!

8. She is #1 on my speed dial. Whenever I need wisdom. Whenever I want to cry to someone. Whenever I am most afraid. Whenever I need a good idea. She is my #1 person to call. Seriously, she beats out EVERYBODY!!

9. She gives me clothes. I know this seems like a sad reason to make a top ten list, but it really does make mine. I love clothes. I know this is petty, but I have a passion for clothing. Whenever I get extra money (which is rare), I want to buy clothes. People will ask me "what do you want for Christmas or birthday or.....?" and my first thought is, "I want some clothes." My mom always buys clothes for me. When I visit her house, she gives me her hand me downs, and I must rather proudly say, "She has some good hand me downs!" I am thankful that I am her same size. It has worked rather conveniently for me.

10. The last reason that my mother is my hero is that she has taught me some of the most important things about life. She was fervent in her love for God. I never questioned that. She performed some duties as a ritual, and yet she did it because she thought it was the "right" thing to do. I thank God that she can have discussions with her theological son and husband. She always remains steadfast yet she knows that she does not know it all. She is willing to learn, but she will not compromise. That is a great place to be.

So, that is my top ten list. It is not comprehensive. It could not be. I guess it is just a start. I pray that the example that my mother has always been for me is evident in my own life to my children as well. Happy Mother's Day!

I thank God for the many women in my life who are mothers. While I was blessed enough to have such a great one for a mother, there are so many others that I learn from daily. I thank God for moms! All of them!

The toothless look for Brooke!

2010-04-15T16:08:00.000-07:00

Brooke lost both of her two front teeth over the course of the past two days. It is nice to have them both out. She was not too happy when they were just hanging there. Yes, I decided to just get it all done with and pulled the second one out today. Now, she has her beautiful smile back!

As soon as they were both out, she wanted me to get a picture, so that "Gramma could see her missing teeth." This one is for both of her grandmas!

If we've ever needed you, Lord.....

2010-04-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

I remember a song that was sung when I was a teen---"Christ is all I need." I liked the voice of the one who sang it, and I enjoyed the song, but I remember thinking to myself: "That is a nice thought, but really how does that work?" I had great parents who supported me, and I attended a Christian school that trained me. I needed food and clothes, and I am sure, as a teen, there were many other things I felt I needed, too. Christ was important, and I loved Him and wanted to serve Him, but really: "All I need" seemed like a stretch.

I have grown up (physically and spiritually), and I think for the first time in my life I really get it. I have so many blessings----my parents, my husband, my children, my extended family, my job, my home......, but there is truly only one thing that I KNOW I cannot live without. That is Christ. I don't know how and when I finally came to this realization and made it personal for me, but the song below is one that I recently purchased, and have just listened to repeatedly.

I have good days, and I have bad days, but I never have a day where I don't truly need God. It is so peaceful knowing that He is always there, and it is always enough.

I have confronted many individuals this week, some saved and some not, who are in difficult, life-challenging places, and they need Him, too! I post this song for all of us, just as a reminder and maybe, a necessary prayer for you.

Happy Easter Sunday!

2010-04-04T14:53:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter Sunday from the Beards! We do not want to forget the reason for this important day---Jesus' resurrection from the grave; however, we do enjoy the normal Easter eggs and traditions. After asking Andrew what they talked about in junior church, he stated: "Did you know there are two names for today. (Long pause) Easter Sunday and Resurrection Sunday."

I can only get about two decent pictures before we have to take one like the picture below. Yes, my children at their finest. (Please note: This was before all the sugar they got throughout the course of the day.)

I was very happy to have some beautiful flowers growing in my backyard. Brooke was more than happy to pose with this one.

Every Easter Sunday afternoon, we have the annual Easter egg hunt. I gave them a checklist of eggs that they had to find. It was more of an adventure than just "find any old egg." They enjoyed themselves, but kept looking at their "checklist" to check their progress.

One egg (for Andrew) was just a bit out of reach.
Yes, and Brooke this year, will be playing the Easter Bunny :)
Hope you enjoyed this day in the Lord's house and with fun with family.

A new adventure for the Beard boys

2010-03-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

In the past month, hiking boots, GPS, camel packs, and other gear have been purchased and the three Beard boys have started a new hobby----hiking. Their eventual goal is to hike the Grand Canyon trails, with a more immediate goal to hike the "Backbone Trail" in the Santa Monica Mountains. They have completed three hikes, the last one an 8 mile hike which ended up being an hour in the darkness. Andrew and Wesley did NOT like the darkness. I look forward to the day that Brooke will be willing to go, so that we can all enjoy the new adventures!

A tribute to the world's greatest grandmother

2010-03-27T12:26:00.000-07:00

My cousin created this collection of pictures as a tribute to my grandmother. She truly was my hero, and she will be greatly missed. I am so thankful that she is now dancing and running around in heaven.

State project---the cookie phase

2010-03-08T19:17:00.000-08:00

Wesley is currently in the middle of a rather large project. It is the first of my children's projects involving rough drafts, artwork, maps, final drafts, and cookies. Yes, I did state "cookies." Wesley selected one state from the USA, and has had to research many facts about the state. His most recent phase was to make a cookie (we actually did a brownie) in the shape of this state. We then had to do some topography on the state cookie. While it sounded like a very overwhelming project, we actually had quite a bit of fun in getting it done. Even better, we were somewhat impressed with the results.

Above, we have Wesley and Andrew creating the "spice drop" mountain ranges. Now, the lingering question: What state did Wesley choose? I want to see if anyone can guess correctly. So, what state does that frosted brownie look most like?????

A quick weekend trip

2010-03-02T18:39:00.001-08:00

Though most of the people who read this blog are my family, whom I was blessed to spend time with this past weekend, I still want to post some of my favorite pictures. I flew from LAX to Chicago on Thursday, where my brother, Michael, was also flying in from South Carolina. We were picked up by Aaron and Linda and then proceeded to the hotel, where we completely surprised my mom for her 60th birthday.

On Friday, we enjoyed much walking and shopping to and around Navy Pier, where Mom, Aaron, and I rode the HUGE ferris wheel. Aaron, as always, was quite a riot :)

On both days, we enjoyed the "tastes of Chicago"---Chicago hot dogs and some deep dish pizza.

As a true Californian, I was amused in a variety of ways. I am familiar with signs that say to watch out for falling rocks, but I have never seen the one pictured below.

Mom and I enjoyed a good snowball fight!

What a special weekend we were able to share! It was a particular blessing to be able to enjoy the adults without the kids (thanks Gary and Danielle for helping with that). I know each of us have special memories that this Sturgill crew will treasure for many years.

My Forever Valentine!

2010-02-14T16:44:00.000-08:00

I use this blog mostly to post pictures and updates of my three wonderful children. However, the foundation of any family is a good marriage. I thank God for the wonderful leader that my husband is in our home. He is my best friend, my most reliable confidant, and my wisest counselor. I thank God everyday for him, and I just want everyone else to know that I really love my forever valentine!

Andrew turns 9!

2010-02-12T11:31:00.000-08:00

Andrew celebrated his ninth birthday yesterday! He had a party with the boys from his class on Tuesday; however, I took no pictures (oops!). Today, we went to the talent show at school and then followed that with presents and ice cream cake.

Andrew has 12 Webkinz; however, he still likes to get another one. Here he is with "Lava."

Money is fun! Today, we are going shopping!

I always let the kids pick their birthday cake type. Andrew wanted an ice cream cake, and I decided to be creative and try to make one. Let me just say that it sounds much easier than it was. They sure did enjoy the finished product, however!

I thank God for a nine-year old boy with a tender heart and a sensitive spirit. He has so many gifts---musically, rhythmically, artistically, and athletically; however, the best part of Andrew is his spirit! I pray that in another 9 years, he grows physically, but keeps that same spirit.

Brooke's six year pictures

2010-01-17T14:03:00.001-08:00

Brooke has really grown physically and maturity wise since she started first grade. I remember when she used to cry every time we took her to get her pictures taken. Now, she acts like the little model. More importantly though, we are thankful for her sensitivity to others and to the Lord. Six is looking good on you, babe!

Basketball season begins

2010-01-09T15:51:00.001-08:00

Today was opening day of our church's Upwards basketball season. Andrew's team won 34-12, and Andrew was responsible for 7 of those baskets. In fact, when he first came out, he made his first 5 shots. He won the "offensive player" of the game award.

It was also Gary's coaching debut, as he is coaching Wesley's 5th and 6th grade team. The coaching continued on the sidelines, as Wesley sat out for a time.

Wesley's team also won their first game 18-12. Wesley made one of the baskets for his team. Overall, it was a fun day and the boys really gave 100%. It was good to see our gym filled with many new players and parents.

Beard Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T12:44:00.000-08:00

As I lay in bed on Christmas Eve, I considered the Christmas holidays and how Christians often spend them. On the following morning, after we read the Christmas story (and the kids eagerly anticipated their gifts), I shared my thoughts. What if we threw a birthday party for Andrew. We all knew it was Andrew's birthday, and we were happy that he was in our midst. We were glad to be together to celebrate his birthday. However, the whole group of people brought gifts for only Brooke and Wesley. We all played mom and dad's favorite games; we ate Wesley's favorite foods. Yes, the party was in Andrew' honor and we gave him a moment of attention, but our main enthusiasm was for all of the "stuff for us." I think we can all relate. As Christians, we know that Jesus is the reason for the season, but how we spend our Christmas just puts this special guest in the "corner" of our celebrations.

I pray for myself, my family, and all of my friends, that we are able to place the Lord as our first priority, on Christmas and in every day.

As I know so many of our family will not be able to share a Christmas with us, so far away in California, let me share some of our family traditions and events from this Christmas 2009:

Though it is a blurry picture, we spend much time enjoying the video games. Thanks to all of our distant family for contributing to that activity. Below you can see the three guys playing Mario Kart.

This is my second year directing the children's handbell choir at our church. They performed in both services on Sunday morning. As you look at the faces, you can see how hard they had to concentrate on the music. Next year, I am going to work on making sure they can think and smile at the same time.

On Christmas Eve, we all enjoy the many finger foods that sit out all afternoon and evening. We also attend our church's Christmas Eve service. The bell choir played again in this service.

Wesley's class put on a special chapel, re-creating the Christmas story. Wesley was one of the three magi.

The 4th and 5th graders at VMS had a Christmas program. Wesley played a shepherd. See if you can find him in the group picture below. I must admit, I had a hard time locating him :)

To count down the December days until Christmas, the kids get to open a pocket of their advent calendar each morning. Some days they find a small gift; some days they find candy; other days, the pocket is filled with a notecard stating an event that we will be doing that day.

Trimming the Tree: Every year, day after Thanksgiving, we decorate our Christmas tree. Every year, the kids get a new ornament to add to their collection.

The princess turns six

2009-12-19T20:48:00.000-08:00

Brooke had her sixth birthday today. She is such a joy to each member of this family; we can't imagine one day without her. She is her daddy's girl. She admires and is watched out for by her two big brothers. Her mother would be lost without another female in the mix. Happy Birthday, princess!

Yesterday, she had a party with several of her friends from school. They enjoyed the game "Kiss the frog" (the female version of pin the tail on the donkey). Putting the lipstick on was the best part (below).

Brooke got right on the mark :)

Brooke with one of her closest friends, Juliana. Juliana is still wearing the remnants of lipstick "gone wild."

Brooke enjoyed the package from Gramma. Thanks, Gramma and Poppa!

As Brooke was lying on the floor tonight, sick to her tummy of cookies and birthday cake, she replied: "I don't know how I got to be so big!" My thoughts, exactly, sweet one.

Season---endings and beginnings

2009-11-28T20:01:00.000-08:00

Andrew's football season ended today. It was a nail-biting game down to the last second. His team ended the season with an 8-2 record. They lost 16 to 22 in a division playoff, just one game short of the Super Bowl. We were very proud of Andrew's abilities and his excellent attitude. When I asked Andrew if he was going to play again next year, he said, "Oh, yes, for sure!" I am thankful for his head coach. As the team huddled at the end of the game, his coach stated: "I am very proud of each one of you guys. You are sad because you love football, and now it is over. But there is so much more to life than football. Football just teaches us many lessons we need to learn in life."

While it was the end of the football season, it is also the beginning of the Christmas season. We always decorate our tree the day before or after Thanksgiving. The kids enjoy hanging their ornaments---one new one for each year. I love December, and all of the busyness and festivities that it brings.

Gary was able to get a few colorful pictures of the sky from our backyard. Whatever season you find yourself in, remember to thank God for his undeserved blessings and never ending love. What a great season to praise God!

Hodge Podge pictures

2009-11-11T15:58:00.001-08:00

The five of us were pleasantly surprised when Gary's mom and dad called and said that they desperately needed to get away. Gary's dad has been working too much :) Well, they started driving and arrived at our home 4 days later. It was so much fun having them visit for about 1 week. Thanks, Mamaw and Papaw for coming out to see us. I don't know if they really got a break, but we were ecstatic to visit with them.

Back track to Halloween night and guess what my two boys decided to dress up for on Halloween??? Yes, football players. Wesley decided to skip out on the jersey and replace it with this special t-shirt from Gramma Sturgill. "No questions.....just put the candy in the bag."

I couldn't leave out this angel face. She did not dress up like this for Halloween, but she did get her face painted on our last trip to Knott's Berry Farm.

It has been a busy month, but I wanted to get some pictures out. We love you all (unless, of course, we don't know you and you just happened upon my blog)!

Fall means pumpkins

2009-10-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

Growing up in the mid-west, I always loved fall. The cool crisp, evenings, and the colorful, falling leaves. For reasons other than these two, I still love autumn. We do have cool, crisp evenings (occasionally), and I actually see a tree losing its' leaves every once in awhile. Pumpkins, however, are in abundance. There are pumpkin patches everywhere!

Yesterday, the kids picked out their own pumpkin and we brought them home to carve. If you look carefully at the picture below, you will see each one behind their respective pumpkin. They named them "Jack," "O" and "Lantern." We even roasted the pumpkin seeds. I have to admit that has never been one of my favorite treats, but Gary said "it is something you have to do every once in awhile, just because it is fall!"

A California Visit

2009-10-18T13:03:00.000-07:00

May I never cease to be amazed at how God works things out. I especially notice when He works things out in ways that I want. Dad was asked to speak at an AACS conference, hosted at none other than Ventura, CA. Thank you God for using them in ministry and allowing it to be in our own backyard :) Below are some pictures mom sent me from the weekend. It was good for Gramma and Poppa to be able to watch Andrew in action on the football field. It was a short, full, enjoyable weekend for each one of us.

A new look

2009-10-06T16:54:00.000-07:00

Wesley had an appointment today to get things checked out with his broken ankle. It has been three weeks since the break. He and Gary made a morning of it and went out to IHOP and then proceeded to the doctor's office. Wesley did get his cast removed. It was an interesting process, as he explained it to me :) The x-ray showed good improvement, so he is now able to wear a boot. He is still reliant upon his crutches, but he is able to remove the boot for sleeping and bathing.

I have heard people's horror stories about casts and the itching and the stinking. So, it is nice to have a protective wear that can be removed when he is sitting. We were also happy to see that his leg did not have any bruises. When the cast was put on, his leg was badly bruised, but he has healed rather nicely.

Thanks for the cards, comments, and prayers. He is doing great!

Wherever you find yourself

2009-09-20T18:08:00.000-07:00

Last night, Gary and I had the privilege to attend a Casting Crowns' concert. What a blessing it was and a challenge. I write this post to challenge any Christian who reads it, but also as a reminder to myself. I know I will come back to this in a couple of months, when I find I need a reminder.

One thing I love about the music of Casting Crowns is that it gives such a clear message of glory to God and hope for a very lost world. The songs are filled with so much Bible. In fact, each CD lists numerous Bible verses that support the message of each song. It is fun to be able to sing what the Bible states to be true.

The lead singer, Mark Hall is a youth pastor in Atlanta. He, like so many Christians, has been a Christian for a long time and often finds himself in a "rut." I love the analogies that he used. He talked straight to Christians: "At church, everything makes sense. We know how to live and what direction to take. Everything is black and white. But once we leave the church doors, so often, life turns gray." He went on to explain that he knows he is a Christian. His heart belongs to the King of kings, but as a Christian, we often have a brain that is lost. We make excuses for not sharing the gospel. We prioritize so many things over God's call on our life. We rationalize our good, but not godly choices. We pursue our career, rather than His calling. We work so hard to have a personal relationship with God, that it never affects anyone outside of our own person. We forget that we have one purpose on this earth and Satan keeps us plenty busy doing everything but that purpose.

The song below is one I have listened to repeatedly today. I know I get caught in the middle often, but I pray God just keeps pulling me closer to Himself.

Life with a cast

2009-09-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

With limited mobility, changes and lessons are many for each person in the Beard household.
Here is our current top ten list:

10. Wesley can no longer wait until the last minute to go to the bathroom.
9. Wesley cannot sneak up on me anymore. I can hear him coming from quite a few yards away.
8. I have never been so thankful for a one story house.
7. Their are way too many stairs at most schools!
6. Things no longer get misplaced in pairs. I am constantly finding one sock......or one shoe.
5. If you break your ankle, why does the cast have to go all the way up your leg? (Just so you know, it has something to do with the growth plate.)
4. How many people can you fit in a car if one person takes the whole backseat?
3. I have to help with baths, for the first time in many years.
2. Someone recently told us to go to an amusement park, and we would get access to the front of every line. Good idea!!
1. Who wants a cool colored cast when instead you can get a white one.....that glows in the dark??

The first game of the season......and for one of them.....the last

2009-09-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day of the season for Wesley and Andrew and the Ventura Buccaneers. They have been practicing 5-6 days a week for 6 weeks now, and they have had several scrimmages, and we were all quite excited about the big day.

Andrew's game was first. It was a home game, which is at Ventura College---a place I have grown to love. He was very excited and played well. He made the first tackle of the season! Even though the other team scored on their first possession, and I feared it might be a very long day, Andrew's team came back to win 22 to 18.

After Andrew's game, we headed out to Wesley's game, about 1/2 hour away. Wesley was equally excited. Good news first: Wesley's team won their first game also. Bad news: Wesley broke his leg during the second quarter. He was doing a great job "on the line," and we were excited to see some of his moves. However, after one particular play, I couldn't find him. A few minutes later, he came hobbling off the field. He was a true team player and hung around and supported his team as they went on to win. After the game, one of the coaches looked more closely and said we should probably take him to the ER. Five hours later, he came out with a splint. His cast will be placed on Monday. I am glad we got some good pictures of his game. His season lasts just 8 more weeks, and Wesley's doctor said he would be in a cast for 6-8 weeks. I asked him as we pulled out of the hospital, "Did you have fun, Wesley?" He looked at me and smiled, "Yeah, it was alot of fun until I got hurt."

The dismal end of the season for one Ventura Buccaneer!

Sometimes that chisel can really be uncomfortable

2009-08-23T18:18:00.000-07:00

I trust that you will take a few minutes to watch a provoking video. Our Pastor used a part of this in his message on Sunday, and I was happy to find the whole video on You Tube. It is funny, and it is spiritually challenging. I thank God for continual reminders of His love and opportunities for growth. I pray this video will be the same for you.

Back to school for everyone

2009-08-17T16:23:00.001-07:00

Today was the first day of school for everyone. Wesley started 5th grade; Andrew is now in third grade; but, the biggest adventure was for Little Miss Brooke, who began first grade today. I even had my first day of classes at the college.

It was a great day overall for all of them. Wesley's favorite part was learning that he is not required to write in cursive. (He hates writing in cursive.) Andrew did not share too much with me, but he came home with a Chinese hat???? I asked Brooke what she did: "I wrote a page of letters. It was O." Did you read today? "No, we had free reading time, but Ms. Darby said I could just look at the pictures." Ha :) I am thankful, again, for a Christian school with a great dedicated staff. Here is to a great year of school.

It was grand!

2009-08-08T19:39:00.000-07:00

We had a 4-day vacation at the Grand Canyon. Mom and Dad were celebrating their 40th anniversary, and they let us come vacation with them for a couple of days. We had an 8-hour trip to the Grand Canyon; we drove during the night so that the kids (and I) could sleep. We arrived at the Grand Canyon just as the sun was rising that morning. We bypassed the hotel and went straight to get our first look and watch the sunrise. It was beautiful, and truly breath-taking.

We spent three days hiking in the Canyon, observing different viewpoints, and shuttling around the enormous state park. Below are some favorite pictures, but I will have many more on the slide show. Actually, Gary and I took over 450 pictures---look for the book coming out next spring :)
The kids enjoyed spending time with Grandma and Poppa. Andrew, who was normally very fearful of the water, overcame his fear this vacation and became successful at swimming, floating, and doing the cannonball. We were all pretty proud of him!

Getting ready for football season

2009-07-25T13:51:00.001-07:00

The boys are signed up for the Ventura Buccaneers this year. They are excited about playing football, beginning in August. Today was the day that they had fittings for their equipment. I learned that it takes much work (and several people) to gear up a young boy with football equipment. After getting dressed out, the boys were ready to run into each other and do some body slams!

As a player, each of the boys has to raise $100.00 in donations for their football season. We were given $10.00 vouchers for some local restaurants to give to those who can help. While all of our family is not in our area and would not benefit from the vouchers, I still want to ask if anyone would be willing to help the boys raise their $100.00 each. Let me know and thanks!

Wesley is a teen; oops, I mean ten!

2009-07-21T20:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, our oldest child turned ten years old today! What a blessing he is to the entire family. Wesley is the leader. He is the strong one. He is the giver of hugs for his mom, and he is the analytical mind of his dad. We love you, Wes!

We spent the afternoon at Golf N Stuff in Ventura, where we all played a round of golf. The boys then ventured out to the bumper boats and arcade games. After the time at Golf N Stuff, Wesley chose the shops where we would go to spend some of his birthday cash. His favorite two places to shop: Game Stop and Toys 'R Us. Top it all off with stuffed crust pizza and double decker chocolate cake. I think Wesley is going to be sick, but hey, it was fun!

One way to teach how to tithe

2009-07-19T13:03:00.000-07:00

I must first thank my brother, Aaron, for his contribution to the following post. As his family was visiting last week, Aaron shared the video above with Gary. It was actually late one evening when I was putting the kids to bed, that I heard some loud laughter coming from the living room. I came into the room to ask them to quiet down, when I saw this video that Aaron was sharing with Gary.

The next morning, Gary pulled it up on our big screen TV and had the kids watch it. I must admit, my children now fully understand the Biblical concept of tithe. Now, my kids frequently ask me to put the "tithe rap" on my computer screen. I took the following picture of them while they were finishing up their version of the tithe rap. While rap is not my favorite type of music, I had to laugh as they danced around the family room: "Walk it out....."

A family visit

2009-07-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to have some family come visit us here in Southern CA. Since most of our family is in the mid-west, it is difficult for them to get out here (except my wonderful parents :) )Aaron, Linda and their 4 kids came out for a week. I think the kids were most excited about the plane trip, but we kept them busy for the week and had a great time. The slide show is a compilation of our visit with them. Thank you, Aaron and Linda, for coming out to see us! We sure do love you all. When we were in the car after leaving them, Wesley said, "I sure do miss my cousins!"

The love life of a 3 1/2 year old

2009-07-11T10:00:00.001-07:00

I found the current edition of Aaron Sturgill as a child----his son, Ryan. This morning, at breakfast, Ryan informed me that he hates kissing. I told him that I was going to give Uncle Gary a very big kiss. He put the glove over his face.

Then, Ryan (age 3 1/2) informed me that he has a girlfriend. The following were various parts of our dialogue: "Her name is Bekah. She is 6 years old." He likes the mature, older ladies. "She is Alex's girlfriend." Wait, I thought she was your girlfriend. The glove went back over his face. "I don't have a girlfriend now." The crisis and love triangles that are formed at this young age. I told him I would be his girlfriend. "No, you kiss Uncle Gary." I guess he doesn't want their to be a rivalvry.

I do have many pictures from my brother and his family's visit, but this one just begged for its own post!

Wii love it!

2009-06-23T12:06:00.001-07:00

Not being able to hold off until Christmas, Mamaw and Papaw Beard got an early Christmas present for the family. As you can see from the picture below, Gary set it up, and we tested it. Meanwhile, with blinds closed and back door locked, the kids played outside. :)

When we finally let them in the house (realistically, it was only 20 minutes), they were excited! Wesley and Andrew had decided to save their money to buy a Wii, but they knew it was going to take quite awhile to save up that much money. We bowled, golfed, shot hoops, shuffled, and played basketball and tennis most of the day. The kids and Gary went for an all-nighter.

When Gary and I woke up this morning, we saw that Wesley and Andrew had decided to share the couch---not a good idea for Andrew!

A hidden talent

2009-06-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

Andrew had a play date with his best friend, Sean, a month ago. His mom just gave me a CD with some pictures of the two of them this past school year, and this video was included . I was surprised to see this hidden talent in Andrew. The boys wanted me to post it, so that Gramma could see how good Andrew was doing at his piano playing. Not bad, considering he has never had a lesson! (Note: Sean's brother, Blake, is the busy one in the video.)

Brooke gets promoted

2009-06-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

Last fall, I wrote a post about our dilemma with Brooke's age and kindergarten. I found the comments and verbal advice from people very interesting. No matter what the outcome, we decided (and Brooke was ready) to do her kindergarten work and see how well she focused and comprehended.

Well, nearly 10 months later, we are proud to say that Brooke has completed her kindergarten work. She is reading and adding and saying her special blends like a pro. I must admit, that I struggled with teaching this young girl. She is a much more an "emotional" learner than her brothers ever were. Some days, Brooke would read quickly, and then the next day, she would say, "I don't want to" or "I don' know how to" or "Can you help me, PLEEEEASE!" Girls can sure be moody!! This past Sunday, Brooke was promoted to Junior Church since she will be going to first grade in the fall.

We will continue to work this summer in getting her ready for first grade. Though I debated over the issue of "should she be the youngest or the oldest in her class," I finally realized that it was not really MY choice to make. I thank God for a husband who is a great leader and a daughter who is a great learner and a group of friends who are a great support. I pray that Brooke continues to grow to be a godly, young lady who most importantly loves her Lord. Upon finishing kindergarten, Brooke was given a new Bible (a pink princess Bible). She hugged it and said, "Can I please read John 3:16 to you?" "Yes, Brooke," I replied. She opened to some page and said, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son whoever should believe in Him should have everlasting life." I think that is a combination of KJV, NASB, ICB and Brooke Beard :)

End of an Era

2009-06-11T23:30:00.001-07:00

It may not be the end of an era, but it was the end of the school year at Ventura Missionary School. I am not sure who was more excited this evening: me, that there was no homework to be done; or the boys, that they could stay up as late as they wanted and watch the Lakers.

The picture above was taken after school this afternoon. As a comparison, I am also posting the picture from the first day of school last August (2008). It is not a great portrait to compare how they have grown, but they have both grown!

Andrew completed second grade. His teacher, Mrs. Campbell, loves Andrew! She always tells me what a kind soul he is. She loves how "Andrew always talks about his church and his family. He has such a kind heart." I am thankful for Andrew's testimony and for this special teacher.

Wesley finished fourth grade. Most parents and students comment how fourth grade is such a "tough academic year." I am proud of Wesley's academic accomplishments, though he does need some extra practice on his cursive. (What is it with males and their attitude toward cursive writing????) Mr. Rabinowitz was a great blessing to Wesley this year. It was fun for him to have a "guy" as a teacher. Better yet, a guy with a Harley :)

So, it is the end of an academic school year and the start of a welcome summer. Good work, Andrew and Wesley!!!!!!!!

Great great aunts

2009-05-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

I must start by saying this post goes out as a big thank you to two great great aunts. They are not great-great aunts to my three kids, but they sure are great at being great aunts. Yes, that would be Aunt Juliet and Aunt Louise. They love to garage sale (and shop overall), and we received a special package this past week from their shopping efforts. Brooke was ecstatic. Of course, the girl loves clothes!

We all need the reminder

2009-05-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

Life sometimes can become so hectic. With a family and friends and work and activities, it is any wonder any of us find time for peace and quiet. I have had some quiet moments this week, and it was a good reminder to me of the Lord's goodness. I recently finished Beth Moore's Bible Study on the book of Esther. What an amazing study! The subtitle is "It's tough being a woman!" (Amen to that, particularly on certain days.) As always, I walked away with more than I expected. I want to share some particularly powerful thoughts:

1. Self-preservation is a natural instinct. Sadly enough, we often "protect" ourselves right out of God's calling for us.
2. Our ego would rather be special than useful.
3. Once we are in Christ, Satan has no authority to destroy us, so he settles for the next best thing: threatening to destroy us.
4. You won't ever be perfect. If you are waiting for perfection to be able to minister to others, you will always be waiting.
5. Our strength is renewed when we wait upon God. If you are waiting on a person or an event, you will get frustrated.
6. Esther was called to a life of obedience, not called to "figure everything out."
7. Don't let the craving to do something great keep you from doing something good.

Each one of these statements can carry a powerful message. I hope maybe one of them "hits" you where you need it today.

On another topic, a few weeks ago, Gary and Wesley were camping on the islands with Wesley's school class. While they were gone, I picked up Andrew from school and had a low blood sugar problem. I remember pulling over to the side of the road. I told Andrew and Brooke: "We need to pray that someone will come help us." About an hour later and after an ambulance visit and some glucose, I was better. When we got back in the car, I hugged my kids and told them I was so proud of them and I was so sorry that I had scared them. Andrew said: "Mom, when you told us to pray, Brooke and me prayed, and the people came out of their house in like two seconds." My diabetes is a constant reminder to me of God's protection and how my life is not mine to control. It was good to see how a horrible situation like this could teach my kids that we are NEVER alone.

Over the past two weeks, I have seen God working in people and people trying to live outside of God. What a mess this world is in! Thank God for the constant reminders of His love. "There in the shelter of the Most High we find our significance and only satisfaction of our insatiable need to be noticed. There and there alone we are free to be neither depressed nor impressed with the capricious reactions of this carnal world. All will fall before God's throne. Blessed is he--and blessed is she---who does not have far to go."

Happy Mother's Day, Gramma!

2009-05-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

Happy mothers day to my mother! I borrowed this idea from a friend, and we had fun answering the questions about my mom (their gramma).

How old is gramma?
Wesley: 58 (He is off to a very accurate start)
Andrew: 62
Brooke: 75

How tall is gramma?
Andrew: 1 million feet
Brooke: This tall (and she raised her hand and jumped)
Wesley: 5' 11"

What is gramma good at doing?
Wesley: Making kids happy
Andrew: (answered rather quickly) Making chocolate chip zucchini muffins
Brooke: Making french toast

What does gramma say to you?
Andrew: Let's go to the park.
Wesley: I love you (all three agreed on this one)
Brooke: Hi!

If gramma were a cartoon character, who would she be?
Andrew: Goofy
Brooke: Minnie Mouse
Wesley: Velma (on Scooby-doo)

What is gramma's favorite thing to do?
Wesley: Be with us
Andrew: Gardening
Brooke: Hug me

What do you want to tell gramma today?
Andrew: You rock!
Wesley: I love you.... and keep sending us gifts.
Brooke: I love you!

Who does gramma love most in the world?
All three answered at once: ME!!!

Weekend with Gramma!

2009-04-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

Mom flew into LAX this past Friday evening to spend a long weekend with us. The main reason for her visit was the fact that Wesley and Andrew were getting baptized in church on Sunday morning. It was also nice for her to celebrate my birthday (just a few days late) and see our new house. It is always good to have mom visit! The kids sure do get spoiled, and I guess I do a little bit too.

What a blessing to see Wesley and Andrew get baptized this morning. Their testimony is so clear, and their love for Christ so strong and pure. They were a little nervous, but excited. Brooke's class sang in the morning service, too.

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite Sundays of the year is Easter Sunday. I love walking into church when we have to park off site because the parking lot is so full. I love the bright colors everyone is wearing. I love the praise music. I love when the choir sings, and the special music is shared. One of the kids said, "I am so glad I am a Christian. People who are not saved do not have much to be happy about." It was kind of my feeling as I sat in church this morning. When I picked Brooke up from her class, her teacher asked: "Brooke, tell your mom the good news. Jesus is...." Brooke said, "He died on the cross." True, Brooke, but I don't think that was what he is looking for. "Jesus is alive!"

It is good to have a great family

2009-04-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

I was without internet service at the house for a week and a half, and I went to school each morning just to check into my different e-mails and accounts. I realize how technologically dependent I have become. I am also taking an internet course, which can be difficult to do without the internet.

One thing that makes me most thankful for the internet, however, is the way that I can be in contact with family members who live many miles away. Even if I lived in the mid-west, I would probably not know them as well as I do now in reading the blogs. I laugh at Ann-Marie's long posts and candid comments. I am touched by updates of Naomi's little boy, Trey. I love to read about Beth and Deborah's "mother" moments. I smile every time I see Brielle's smiles. I am glad Aunt Juliet keeps me posted and pictured on Rehfeldt events. It was good to see my nieces' and nephews' lives through the posts of Linda and Danielle (though I must say they have been slacking off quite a bit lately). I am amazed at how big Tammy's kids are getting, and I am somewhat jealous of the fun Charity has with all of those Gagliano angels :) Mostly, however, it is a blessing to see how God is working in the different lives. Each one of us are at different places, and we question God in different ways, but it is such a blessing to see the constant thread: "God is so real to us and He is working in us!" I never knew God so much as I do now, as an adult. I am glad that my childhood "training" has become an adulthood reality. So, thank you, all of you, for sharing your lives. It is so good to get to know you in this way. I thanked God, several times today, for my amazing family. The pictures below are another thanks to an amazing mother-in-law and her enormous Easter boxes. "Let's call Mamaw and tell her thank you right now," Wesley said, "even before I open the box. I know it will be good."

It goes like this........

2009-03-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to post for some time now, but........... over the course of the past 10 days, we have been overwhelmed with all of the activities and moving into our new home. I am so thankful for the Lord's care, as I have been battling with low blood sugars every day. Keep that matter in your prayers. We are so thankful for the Lord's provision and his continued strength.

The boys are starting spring break this week, but they recently enjoyed the annual jog-a-thon at school. Thanks to Aunt Kari, Gramma, and Mamaw for sponsoring the boys! Wesley was involved in the spring concert at school. It was one of the best that I have ever seen!

I was so thankful for the missions conference at our church last week. Our family adopted the McKnight family about two years ago. Ever since, we pray daily for them. We send them packages and correspond regularly. It was fun to visit with them and take them out for dinner. There are some people whom you meet and just form an instant connection with---Christine was like that for me.

Before moving into the new house, we decided to paint the entire thing. Gary purchased a sprayer and paint went flying. You can see the results below :)

My "sweet" boy

2009-03-15T09:19:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post Andrew's most recent pictures (Look at Andrew; he is 8!), and after reading my cousin, Ann-Marie's, exciting post about having a baby boy, I just wanted to cry. I remember when I was pregnant with Andrew, and we found out we were having a boy. I was disappointed! I already had a gorgeous son, and I really wanted a girl. You must know that God blessed us with Brooke several years later, but, at the time, I really wanted a girl. After delivering Andrew, we were riding home in the car, and I just cried. I had two precious gifts in the back seat, and they were both boys! I loved Wesley, but I still had plenty of heart left over to love Andrew. He was my cuddler :) As I look back now, I know he will always own a soft spot of his mother's heart. Sorry to all the other 8-year old boys in the world, but I live with the greatest!!!

Kids and the things they say

2009-03-07T20:26:00.000-08:00

After a day of laundry, cleaning, and packing boxes, I was ready for a nice, hot, shower. Before getting into the shower, I told Brooke and Andrew to clean up the very messy playroom. While in the bathroom, I overheard the following conversation:

Brooke: "I wish I was mom."
Andrew: "No, mom has to do the dishes and clean the bathroom."
Brooke: "I wish I was dad."
Andrew: "No, dad is on the computer and has to talk on the phone alot. Besides, he gets real sweaty."
Brooke: "Well, I want to be a boy, then."

Needless, to say Brooke just didn't want to be Brooke right then if that involved picking up her toys. She hates picking up her toys!

Andrew was playing on the PS2 today, and created a basketball player in his NCAA game. He made a guy that was superior in dribbling, rebounding, speed, and defense. Andrew made him 7' 5". The funniest part was when I saw the name on the back of the jersey---"Stirgil." Now, if you know the Sturgills, none of us are close to 7'5". I asked Andrew what his first name was, and he said that he named the guy: "Briant Stirgil." Here is to one of his favorite cousins!!!!

The picture below is of Brooke's most recent happening. While at the boys open house at school on Thursday evening, Brooke lost her first tooth!

Our new home

2009-03-04T15:49:00.000-08:00

After 15 offers and hundreds of houses, we have finally had an accepted offer, and a home that we are happy to move into! Our closing date is scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2009. The inspection was yesterday, and was pretty smooth. I am not posting pictures of the inside, because the people have much junk, and we are going to be doing some re-painting and re-flooring. The house, however, is in pretty good shape. It was built in 2001, and it is a one-story that contains 2105 square feet. It was nice to find a 4-bedroom home with family and living room and, for Gary, air-conditioning. Praise the Lord for his blessings. We know that this is the house he wants us in, and for whatever reasons, we are thankful to accept it!

Brooke, an example of child-like faith

2009-03-02T16:39:00.000-08:00

Last night was a tender moment for me as a mother. We were driving on our way to the evening church service at Ventura Baptist Church. The three kids were all seated in the back seat. We all noticed the bright, setting sun in front of us; it was a beautiful scene. Wesley remarked, “Wow, that is so cool! I want God to come back right now and take us all to heaven.” There was a bit of a pause, and then Wesley continued….”Wait, not right now, because Brooke is not a Christian.” The boys know that there is only one way to heaven, and Brooke has never accepted Christ as her Savior. This is something that they have mentioned on several occasions….”I am glad our whole family is saved….except Brooke…..” and other such comments. It was not a personal attack against her; they just knew and wanted her to choose Christ as well.

Several days ago, I was talking with Brooke while she was taking her bath. She brought up the subject of becoming a Christian. I asked her if she believed God,why Christ died for her, and if she had ever sinned. She understood some parts better than others, and she believed, but she was also very distracted. Typical 5 year old mind---after a few minutes of discussion, she breaks the topic at hand with something as inconsequential as….”Here, can you wash my back?” or “Ducky is cold” or “I really like pink washcloths.” Such was the case this evening, with one exception----she had really paid attention and really comprehended. I let the matter rest and prayed that she would think about it and that God would work in her heart.

So, with this backdrop, the matter continues in the car. Brooke says, “I want to be a Christian….right now.” I don’t want to push my children into making prayers and claims that they do not understand, so I do not push this area. I remained quiet. Brooke continued, more seriously…”I want to be a Christian.” I told her, “Brooke you can talk to God anytime that you want.” Then I remained silent. The boys were not going to let this rest. Andrew said, “Brooke, you have to pray. Now fold your hands and close your eyes.” Oh, the beauty of the mechanics of prayer! Brooke did exactly as Andrew stated. He then said, “Dear God….” Brooke repeated, “Dear God…” Andrew said, “Come into my heart and save me.” Brooke said, “Come into….” “Wait,” Wesley exclaimed. Andrew looked at him knowing what was coming next: “I forgot the next part,” Andrew conceded. Wesley picked up….”Brooke, you have to believe God and that Jesus died for your sins. You have to tell him that you want to be a Christian and that you want to be saved. You have to ask him to forgive your sins.” I think he covered all the bases. Though driving, I am sure I can picture the looks on all of their faces. Brooke, after a moment’s hesitation, stated, “I prayed!” I asked her if she believed in God. “Yes,” she replied. "Does Jesus love you?" “Yes,” she knowingly answered. "Do you want to follow Christ?" “Yes!” she adamantly stated. I am not sure if she was expecting lightning or some earth shattering sign from God, but she was amazed at the simplicity of salvation. “Brooke,” I stated, “the Bible says that if you believe on Jesus, then you are saved. That is all that it takes.” "Am I a Christian right now?", she questioned, again, amazed at the simplicity of accepting Christ as Savior. “Yeah! Brooke is saved,” the boys were exclaiming in the backseat. “I am a Christian,” Brooke stated, the reality of her new-found faith settling in. With children, it is always hard to discern what is going on in their heart and mind vs. what is going on from the outward appearance. We arrived at church, and I was even more pleased. We got out of the car and Brooke stopped me before running off to her class…”Mom, remember the other day in the tub….. I’ve been thinking about that.” Off she went. Thank you, Lord, for childlike faith. Your word says to have faith like a child. It is good to see it in action in my children’s lives.

Presidential Campaign

2009-02-28T13:43:00.000-08:00

Andrew's last book report required him to read a book on either George Washington or Abraham Lincoln. He not only had to write a report on the book but then make a campaign poster portraying himself as the potential President. We had so much fun with this one. I love Andrew's three "goals as President." 1)Stop Pollution, 2)Preach the Bible, and 3)Peace in the world. We laughed over his face being implanted on another speaker's body. I thought you might enjoy a bit of our current Presidential "pursuit."

Our little lady

2009-02-13T15:46:00.000-08:00

Brooke had her 5-year old pictures taken this last week. It is nice that she has outgrown the "cry during pictures" phase. Now, she is ready to be a model! I am normally pleased with how the pictures turn out; and these were no exception. Enjoy the photos of our precious, little lady.

It's a puzzle

2009-02-12T16:43:00.000-08:00

Gramma sent Andrew a puzzle as part of his birthday package. I am not sure who has enjoyed it the most. We have all had our hands in to get the project completed. One night, Gary was getting close to finishing the puzzle, and I asked him to let the boys finish it. When they woke up the next morning, it was sitting on the coffee table with about 8 pieces remaining. Wesley and Andrew were happy to finish it. I told them we should glue and frame it. They want to save it and do it again. Who thought we could all have such fun with a puzzle? Gramma probably knew we would enjoy it; she is good that way :)

Happy Birthday Party Day

2009-02-07T19:38:00.000-08:00

Andrew woke up on Friday morning, and said, "I am so excited. Today is my birthday party day!" Andrew will turn 8 on Wednesday, so we decided to celebrate with his two best friends this weekend. We had cake and opened presents, and then went bowling. It was a fun evening with three very well-behaved little boys (and one big boy and little girl :) ).

Upwards Basketball---Season #3 begins

2009-01-17T12:54:00.000-08:00

The boys started their new season of Upwards Basketball. The season actually started last Saturday, but with a super busy week, I forgot to post any pictures. The boys are really excited, as they both made 5 baskets in their game today (but, who's counting??? :) ) It is an excellent ministry in our church, as only 30 of the 185 players are from our church. It is an excellent opportunity to meet families from the community and invite them to our church. The boys have a blast, too.

As I post this blog, it reminds me of my first post, exactly two years ago. This post was also regarding Upwards basketball. I have to thank Danielle for getting me started in this endeavor. It has been a great way to stay in touch with family and friends. Thanks for all who visit and leave comments, too.

Well, here are some pictures from last week. The boys have been pretty excited about football lately, but it was good to see them focus on another sport.

More of our Get-away

2009-01-10T21:36:00.002-08:00

Family Get-away

2009-01-10T16:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas break ends this next week for both the boys and myself. So, before we all headed back to school, we took one last "HOORAH!" It was a nice get-away for two days. I will show some of my favorite pictures from each activity, but use the slide show to get the rest displayed.

We started with another day at Knott's Berry Farm. Andrew experienced his first "real" roller coaster. It was Wesley's favorite, so he talked Andrew into going on with him. Andrew ended up riding it four times total. The picture below is of the three kids on the kiddy coaster.

After spending a night at a hotel, we went to Anaheim to spend the day Friday. We started at Camelot Golfland and Laser Tag.

To kill some time, we went to see the Angels' stadium.

Our last activity was a hockey game Friday night at the Honda Center to watch the Anaheim Ducks play. I was worried that Brooke would not stay awake during the whole game, but we were all completely entertained for the duration.

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-01T14:35:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I use to be an advocate of resolutions; however, after repeated years of not keeping them or feeling discouraged about my failure in accomplishing as much as I had hoped, I threw out the whole resolution idea. This year is different for me! I have set two major goals, which I will not share. They are very personal items that I have set as a target for myself in my own personal life. See, this year is somewhat important to me: the 9's have always been years of significance in my life. Let me explain what I mean:

1969: I was not alive during this year, but my parents got married in 1969 and that was important in my own welfare :)

1979: This was the year that I developed Type I juvenile diabetes. As a young child, my life changed dramatically. I will never know what it is like to be "guilt-free" in eating. I must continually juggle the amount of activity I do with the foods I eat, the stress I am under, and the amount of insulin I have taken. The Lord gave me a disease that I can live with, and He has used it in many ways to bring His name glory; however, 1979 was the start of the lifelong challenge for me.

1989: This was probably one of the funnest years of my life. I graduated from high school and started college at Maranatha. As a young adult, I really enjoyed myself and my new-found freedoms.

1999: This was the year that I gave my birth to my firstborn, Wesley. I love being a mother, and it all started in 1999.

That brings us to 2009. These former 9's, you must admit, were all life-changing and rather climactic events. So, the question looms......What will happen to me in 2009??????

I am not worried, nor am I apprehensive. You see, I am not superstitious, either. I don't think the number of the year plays any role in life events. But....you must admit, it is rather ironic.

Some Christmas Pics

2008-12-30T21:28:00.000-08:00

Children's choir at Ventura Baptist Church

2008-12-22T13:46:00.001-08:00

Gramma bought Brooke her Christmas dress (with dolly to match!). She was our Christmas princess.
Andrew and Wesley were part of our children's choir this year. I was happy to be able to help direct. They played bells also, which was fun for me. It brought back the days of Maranatha Handbell choir.

The children were asked to come forward as our family pastor shared the Christmas story with them. Brooke got right behind the choir risers, which made for an interesting picture. It was a fun day of worship and praise this Christmas season.

Look at Brooke! She is five

2008-12-20T23:02:00.000-08:00

When I asked Brooke what kind of cake she wanted for her birthday she said, "Chocolate with chocolate frosting." I asked her what kind of shape or design she wanted. The kids usually get creative with their cakes, and I have fun doing that with them. Brooke said simply, "I want triangles." So, it was not too hard for this math teacher to figure out how to cut a rectangle into some triangles.

To celebrate Brooke's birthday, we had a "girl's day out." Brooke, her best friend Malia, and I went out for lunch at Applebees (Brooke's request), played some games/rides at Chuck E Cheese, and then the girls got their nails done.

We bought Brooke a bike for her birthday. Last night, after dark, she was out riding on the back patio.

Wesley and "The Three Trees"

2008-12-18T20:00:00.000-08:00

Wesley's class did a reading/acting in the elementary chapel service today. They did "The Three Trees." It is a good story about how three trees wanted to be something great and were disappointed when they were made into a trough, fishing boat and a plain board. They later grew to realize their use by the master as they played the part of the manger, the boat from which He calmed the storm, and the cross upon which he died. Wesley did the main narrating part, and he did an excellent job. It is fun to see his "drama" side. To read the full story, click on the link: http://w ww.pennyparker2.com/trees.html

We got snow!

2008-12-16T20:39:00.000-08:00

The kids were just watching a Christmas cartoon (Charlie Brown's Christmas) and we noticed that we are under a winter advisory. It was also nice to wake up this morning, and while taking the boys to school, see the snow covered mountains. I just wanted to let all of my mid-west family know that, though we live in CA, we still get to enjoy the beautiful snow (sort of). Now, I just have to persuade Gary to drive us up in the mountains over Christmas break to let us play in the snow :)

Christmas Traditions

2008-12-09T19:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas brings out traditions in many people. I remember when we were first married, Gary and I started traditions of our own. I love them! One tradition we have with our children (and one that they love) is the Christmas advent calendar. Mamaw Beard started and created our first one. She filled each pocket with goodies for the kids. Since that time, we have mixed it up, but they always enjoy coming down the stairs each morning and opening their "pocket." Many of the pockets this year hold cards with different activities that we will do. These pictures are from our "let's build a gingerbread house today" card. The gingerbread house, in my opinion, does not taste that great, but it is great fun to create! So, a new tradition begins :)

Thanksgiving weekend---Christmas preparations and birthday cookies

2008-11-29T20:13:00.001-08:00

Amy was able to spend the weekend with us, but more importantly, Saturday was her birthday. When she walked into our house on Wednesday, I was baking pumpkin bread, chocolate chip cookies, and brownies. She said, "Oh, I want some of my mom's butter cookies!" So, for her birthday, she spent most of the day making and frosting them. They turned out pretty good and tasted great! Happy 20th birthday, cousin!

Thanksgiving weekend always includes the Christmas tree decorating for the Beard family. This year was a bit different in that we purchased an artificial tree. When Gary was pulling it out of the box, Brooke asked, "Is that a real tree, daddy?" After his reply, she stated, "It looks kind of funny." Well, we had a little work to do to get it into shape, but the outcome was satisfying. All three kids enjoy putting up their ornaments---they get a new one each year.

Getting ready for tree decorating----- as reindeer??????

Pilgrims and Indians

2008-11-22T11:39:00.000-08:00

The boys had a special chapel service at school today, in honor of Thanksgiving. They were encouraged to dress up as Pilgrims or Indians. Of course, an Indian is much more fun :) In fact, as I pulled into school to drop the boys off, I was overwhelmed by the sight of all the Indians.

In the special service, Andrew quoted Psalm 100 with his class. Wesley was a bit nervous because he had to do a reading of Scripture, all by himself. I was unable to attend, but Wesley told me: "It was all the kids, pre-school up to 8th grade and lots of parents." Andrew said Wesley did a great job.

I am thankful for a school in which this important topic of thankfulness is given due recognition. The children also presented canned foods and packages for needy children.

Wicked!!!

2008-11-16T18:59:00.000-08:00

Amy and a friend from college, Michele, came out to visit us this past weekend. They are always welcome visitors at the Beard home. One of the main things that they wanted to do this weekend was to go to the Broadway production of "Wicked" in Hollywood. The three of us went on Saturday evening. Being with college students, I guess I was a bit more adventurous. We had no tickets. Instead, we went to the theater 2 1/2 hours early to put our name in a drawing to win front row tickets for $25.00. We did not win the lottery :) Instead, we were able to purchase any available seats for $45.00. This is a huge savings, since we had looked at prices the night before and couldn't find any for under $108.00. We sat on the right hand side, third row. It was an excellent show. Michele had the sound track, so we listened to it on the ride to and from Hollywood. I have to say, my whole take on the Wizard of Oz has dramatically changed. Thanks, Amy and Michele for a fun evening.

Amy and I before entering Pantages Theater for the showing of Wicked.

Michele and Amy were "flabbergasted" to actually be at Hollywood to see Wicked.

I voted today

2008-11-04T16:45:00.000-08:00

I use to be one of those Americans who was thankful for my right to vote, yet I did not vote. I rationalized that one vote does not really make a difference in the big picture. However, recently, I have realized that God never asks me to make all the difference in the big picture; He simply asks me to do what I can. I voted today!

I live in a very Democratic and very liberal state. California can be the leader in many political ideas. We have two propositions facing us today in CA. One deals with abortions for minors and another with homosexual marriages. These have been big issues in the state. Our church has had 24-hr. prayer vigils to bring these matters before the Lord. My children not only know where we stand but why. On the way to school this morning, Andrew expected to see signs in everyone's yard, since it "is election day." He also commented when one neighbor had a "Yes on 8" sign and another neighbor had a "No on 8" sign that those two people "must not like each other very much." I explained that people have different opinions, but God asks us to do what is right and to still love others!

However the outcome, I am so thankful that I serve a powerful God. The state of CA may take a bad turn, but I know my condition is sure.

By the way, it has been a crazy week at our house. Just to summarize: a mainline water pipe broke in our front yard; our second car is out of commission; Gary is on jury duty; we have a possible two offers accepted on houses; but, I still did get out and vote!

Trick or Treat

2008-10-31T20:52:00.001-07:00

Wesley said it this way: "We have enough candy to last us three months." I hope so! Notice how good they are at organizing the candy into different types.

We had a fun night walking the neighborhoods nearby. Wesley's mummy costume lasted only half of the night; it started falling off, which actually gave it a little more character :) He changed into Darth Vader on our second round of the evening. In case you needed to know, Andrew is a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle and Brooke is the green M&M.

I wish we could have stopped at each one of your doors, but since we could not, here is our wish to you and our very own "Trick or Treat!"

Faulkner Farms Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about fall is the pumpkins. I love taking the kids to a pumpkin patch. There is a famous one nearby that we had not yet been to, so I decided to take them to visit this year. I was a little worried that Wesley and/or Andrew might think that they were getting too big for such childish activities, but they were still willing to go. We had a great time: pumpkin scavaging, bale mazes, sunflower mazes, hay ride, funnel cakes, bale climbing, and even a pumpkin launcher. Seriously, this guy created a pumpkin launcher, which shoots pumpkins into the air, and then we observe how it crashes and splatters. The boys, of course, loved this!

The pictures listed first are the winners of our pumpkin scavage. Andrew found the ugliest pumpkin; Brooke found the biggest, and Wesley found the smallest pumpkin.

Still sleeping sweetly

2008-10-05T13:42:00.000-07:00

I know my kids are 9,7, and 4, but they still like to all sleep together in the same bed----a twin bed, at that. I don't know how old they will be, when they just decide that this is no longer something they want to do. However, I had to try to catch a picture and share it with you. I have a feeling they are going to be running out of room very shortly. By the way, we only allow them to do this on the weekend. School nights require a good night of sleep, which also requires some space (according to my logic).

Weekend Wrap-up

2008-09-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was "boys away, so the girls will play." Gary took Andrew and Wesley out camping for two nights. They love the dirt and the fishing and the tent. When they got home, I cleaned out the backpack to do the laundry and noticed that there was not much to wash. I asked Andrew, and found out that they slept in their clothes and just woke up and kept moving through out the day. I guess they changed once; things must have gotten very dirty :)

Brooke and I had a relaxing weekend enjoying our "girl's time." We went shopping and out to dinner on Friday. On Saturday, Brooke decided to pitch her tent in my bedroom, so she camped out there and watched a movie. You see the animals enjoyed a nice dinner as well.

I took pictures of the dirty boys when they got home, but the pictures do not do justice to the amount of dirt that was seen close up. Wherever your weekend found you, I hope it was a good one!

Fireproof

2008-09-25T22:09:00.000-07:00

I know I blogged about this movie rather recently, but I am just reminding you: the movie is released this weekend. Take someone to see it :) If you cannot, then at least pray that God will work through this movie in the lives of individuals and marriages that have no hope outside of Jesus Christ. Pray that people will understand the message so clearly presented. I am passionate about this because it stands for two things that I am most passionate about: 1) God and 2) my family. Our church has bought a large amount of tickets and are giving them away to people in Ventura, particularly a condominium complex across the street from our church.

Brooke is doing her schoolwork

2008-09-19T14:12:00.000-07:00

Four weeks ago, I started home-schooling Brooke. I have ordered the kindergarten material from A Beka, and we are working through it. She loves doing her school work. Each day when I get home from school (about 1:00), she says, "Ok, mommy, let's do school now." Gary and I are not totally decided if she will be ready for first grade next year or not. Her birthday is late (mid-December) and the CA cut-off is December 1. She can go to first grade next year if she is ready. That is what this school year is all about----determining if she is socially, mentally, and academically ready for school. So far, she is doing good! I have gotten different feedback from different people and would love to hear any of your comments, particularly if you have a "late" birthday experience. I often consider: "Do I want Brooke to be the youngest one in her class (the last one to drive a car) or the oldest one in her class (like she failed or something)?" I have no guess as to the future, so we are just taking one day at a time. The verdict will come next May :)

We are working through the vowels----A, I, U, and this week, E. She asked me last night, "How many vowels are there, mom?" She seemed pleased that there was just one remaining. She knows the alphabet, so I am sure she can figure out that there must be 21 other letters too.

My Bible Study group is back

2008-09-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

If you have read my blog for long, you have realized how much I love my Bible studies and my Bible study group. We meet in the fall for 10-12 weeks and then again in the spring for another series. And, we always do Beth Moore studies. Her studies are awesome in depth studies of God's Word. Once again, I recommend any Christian lady to encourage her church/friends to start a group like this.

Well, we started our new series on Thursday. It had been a long day, and I was particularly tired, but I knew nothing would stop me from being there on that first night. As I was driving with a friend, she said the same thing. "I can't wait to get back; it's like a spiritual high."

I just wanted to share some of my favorite thoughts and hope they can be an encouragement to you. The series is called "Living Beyond Yourself" and focuses on the fruits of the Spirit. Beth mentioned how she knew God's timing would be
right for this study in each lady's life. I am so glad to be studying this topic. So many times I feel like I am in a situation that I don't know what to do----it is beyond me. I realized that this is when we can live beyond ourself; we live in the Spirit.

Here are my favorite thoughts from Thursday night:

1. Life shouldn't just be bearable; it should be full
of joy.

2. As a Christian, you have the privilege to be different. View it as such, and take joy in being different.

3. We are all called to "exclamation mark" living. Make your life one big exclamation mark!!!!!!!

This last thought really struck me hard because I was always taught to live for God, and I teach my children to live for God. However, it is meant to be more than that.

4. Don't just live for God. Let Him live through you.

Here's to living a life that is full, a life that is an exclamation mark on my world, and a life that is beyond what I can do myself. Beth concluded by saying, "If you are not doing something right now that you cannot handle on your own, something that you could not do without Him and His strength, then you are not full of the Spirit."

This is something we all have to see!

2008-09-03T21:56:00.001-07:00

Tonight, Gary and I were able to see a pre-screening of an upcoming movie: Fireproof. I know some people don't go to the movies, and I respect that. However, if there has ever been a time to stand up and say, "Hey, world! We are Christians, and we care about the family, and we want to share it, " the time is now. This movie is amazing. More than that, it shares the gospel, clear and plain. I would recommend this movie to anyone, without reservation. It was shown at our church tonight, and we were able to have Kirk Cameron as our guest speaker. I know when most people think of Kirk Cameron, they think of Mike Seaver on Growing Pains; however, it was such a blessing to see such a strong Christian share his love for God and for his wife. In fact, at the end of the movie, there is a scene where the main character kisses his wife. Kirk Cameron promised his wife, Chelsea, that he would never kiss another woman, on screen or off. So, they flew her in for the last scene and dimmed the background, so people would not know the difference. He said, "I really enjoyed that last scene." This is a movie done entirely by volunteers, directed by a pastor of a church, and totally supported by Christians. Please, take everyone you know to see the movie on opening weekend September 26. It is showing in Rockford, Evansville, Murfreesboro, Flint, and Anderson. It is showing in 800 cities opening weekend, and Kirk said that if Christians get behind and support it, they are willing to open it in another 2,000 cities the following weekend. Not many times does a movie come out that makes you want to stand and cheer, and cry, and be thankful. This movie does. For locations or other info, check out the website at www.fireproofthemovie.com