Progress Report...

Random morning comment

2011-12-02T15:56:00.000-08:00

On the way to school this morning, Isaac exclaimed:

"If I lived to be 102, I would be alive in a part of 3 different centuries!!!"

Twelve years old?!?

2011-10-02T21:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Isaac,

Can it be that you are a big 12-year-old young man today? Wow! It sure seems like just a little while ago that we were rushing to the hospital at 2 o'clock on a Saturday morning with A-Gong. We weren't expecting you to come for another couple of weeks, although we were all packed and ready for you :). Ms. Debbie was your nurse that welcomed you into this world at 3:47am! Grandpa & Grandma, Aunt Bethany, Aunt Rebekah, and Uncle Kevan (not yet uncle at that time!) all came out in the middle of the night to see you! As you've been told by Daddy, you came out looking all around, trying to take in and learn as much about this new world as you can... similar to what you still do today :).

Isaac, Daddy and I are so proud of how God is molding and shaping you. You are an amazing young man and I am grateful that God is teaching to develop a heart to be excellent in all that you do. I love that you have learned to manage your time over the last few years; you are diligent in learning how to see your week as a whole and scheduling out your to not be surprised with any tests or homework that is due. I am thankful for your thoughtfulness in asking to help with groceries and running to get my door when we go places :). I have noticed that you have been very intentional about controlling your attitude and being quick in admitting fault. I am grateful to see challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone to develop your leadership skills in running for class rep the last couple of years. Thank you for trying hard to help your sibling with their homework and be a good example to them... I know that is a hard job! Isaac, I am most impressed and challenged by your desire to know God's Word more. I am convicted by you when I see you curled up on the coach or floor first thing in the morning... pouring over your Bible!

You are precious to me, my smart and handsome first-born! I thank God for letting me borrow you for this appointed time. I love watching you play baseball and football with Daddy and Seth. It's so much fun for me to watch you and Seth and Abby play board games and other made-up games for hours. Even though it is a bit foreign to me, I even love how you boys will discuss all sorts of stats of players and team for hours. I'm glad you and Daddy got to run away for the day yesterday, just Father and Son. I know that Daddy had fun biking, kayaking, and miniature golfing with you. Only Daddy will let you get away with having an Olaf for lunch... although the homemade waffle cup, ice cream, whipped cream, and cherry sounded like an amazing treat!!! It was very cute that Ezekiel was so excited about how you got to see "sea creature" on your kayak :).

Kayaking next to Catalina Island... is this before or after the seal greeted you???

Sitting in the front seat of the helicopter on the flight back to main land :)

Hey, thanks for still liking to do stuff with your dear old mom :). I enjoyed stealing you for a quick lunch date last Friday. Don't forget, pomegranate sorbet is our favorite flavor at Yogurt Town! I like hearing your thoughts about school and what you are learning. Your Bible knowledge and insight is beyond your years. I'm glad that you like your class this year... you certainly have quite a few friends that you've been with since you were in kindergarten. I'm glad Miss Meek allowed your classmate to sing "happy birthday" to you all soft and loud and crazy before you passed out your brownie treat. I think you have a sweet class... even if some of them are a bit chatty :).

This is a big year for you. You will be going to Rawhide Ranch with your school and Hume Lake with church! This is your last elementary year. Yikes! Next year, you will officially be a Jr. Higher... with a locker, electives, sports and running from class to class!!!

Your Klondike Kake :D

Hurry Dad... don't melt the ice cream!!!

Could this be better??? I submit not :)

My heart is glad that you take your responsibility as the oldest child (and cousin). You play that role well. I'm thankful for where the Lord has placed you in our family. You have enriched our lives these last 12 years. We await with great anticipation to see where Jesus will lead you in the future. Son, know that Dad and Mom are praying for you always. We are praying that you will continue to grow in your faith and love for our Lord, Jesus Christ, that you would seek to follow Him with all that you do, and that you would treasure Him as your utmost!

We love you! Happy Birthday, Buddy!!! Be circumspect and make wise choices!!!

Thank you, Grandpa & Grandma, for squeezing in a b-day lunch and for the great new shirts! Congratulations on winning the Best Truck Award at the car show... but we already knew that it was the BEST TRUCK :)

Great job, Grandma! Perfect fit!!!

O-B-E-D-IENCE

2011-09-28T22:54:00.000-07:00

It has been forever since Mrs. Hunt (the 1st grade teacher that each of our kids have had) at FCS wrote the Obedience Song for her class. Throughout the years, she has taught this song to each of her classes. This song has spilled over to all the other 1st graders in recent years and has grown into a standing tradition for the FCS Chapel on the week that the character trait of "obedience" is focused on. About the 3 week of school, the entire FCS student body sing at the top of their lungs the Obedience Song that they learned as a 1st grader :). I applaud Mrs. Hunt for the concepts behind the song, as well as how it helps the kids learn how to spell a long (but very important) word! Side note: obedience was a spelling word for one of the kids last week. I am pretty sure I heard humming while homework was being completed!

*** This was 2 years ago, when Abby was in 1st grade. My last video of this song :) ***

This week was "obedience week" :). Abby was chosen as Student of Week for this character trait! This is the second time (out of 3) that her teachers have identified this character trait in Abby's life. We are thankful that FCS chooses to use so many ways to positively reinforce good behavior. I know that my children respond very well to being singled out as someone that is doing right! I'm grateful for the "village" (family, school, and church) that God has surrounded me to support me in this parenting endeavor. It is absolutely an essential life skill for my children to learn to respect and honor authorities and to be obedient. I love that my kids are learning this skill when the stakes and consequences are lower (that they are not learning it for the first time as an adult, when they get fired from their job because they were disrespectful or insuborndinate to their employer!).

Good job being obedient at school, Abby :)! We are proud of you!!!

Super Hero

2011-09-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

School started this Tuesday. How can it be so amazingly hot and humid in CA?!? It's topped 100 in the last few days. We are all looking forward to the "cooling trend" that is suppose to happen this weekend (especially without air conditioning!) We are so very spoiled... I know!

So, Isaac's assignment tonight is to write a Super Hero paragraph. Isaac is to self evaluate and pick a super hero that exhibits similar character traits as him. On the way home, Isaac complained:

Mom, since you won't let us watch TV, I don't know any super heroes. How am I suppose to figure out which super hero I am like...

I suppose it could be worse :D.

Abraham Lincoln

2011-08-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

Abby has been working hard at getting her room decluttered and clean out (including the closet and under the bed!!!) before school starts. While I was helping her purge her stuff and looking at some of her mountains of papers with "little writings" on them (it's HARD for me to purge... especially my kid's work.), here is what I found:

AbrHAm is on a Penee And a five Dolr Bille

ABrHAM Livd on a farm cold mawt Brnin

AbrHAm was onist And Loved to reed the Bible

AbrHAM Linclin Liket to rite

Judging from the writing, Abby was 5 when she wrote this. She was most likely preparing for an oral presentation (or "share") for her Kindergarten class :). I love that her school allows her ample opportunities to speak in front of the class (and sometimes the entire school!). I'm thankful that she saved this little paper... just for me to find today and to savor motherhood and to remember to treasure even this time that my daughter still needs me to help her clean her room :).

Cousins

2011-08-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

Haven't had much time to get on my blog... maybe after school starts :D. This summer has been one big blur. More about that later, I'm sure.

We were at our annual camping trip just a couple of weeks ago and were able to have a few days where all the "cousins" (our kids' cousins) together. They LOVE their cousins!!!

This week, with Matthew in Cambodia, we attempted to spend some focused time (baby steps!) thinking about school starting back up in a few weeks. Of course that means cleaning and purging closets and drawers, etc... definitely much less fun than water skiing at Almanor or hiking in Yosemite... but very necessary :).

While we were "knee deep" in outgrown or stained clothes, the kids were calling to each other using their "Ezekiel names":

Seth: Igitz, where do you want me to put this?

Isaac: Sephie, you may have that shirt if you want it. It's too small for me...

Seth: Oh! Thanks, Igitz! Abby, are you going to give away that pony?

Isaac: Abby... sorry you don't have a special name...

Abby: Yeah... Ezekiel only calls me "Abby". Sad...

It warms my heart that they love their "Ezekiel names". I love that they are constantly talking about the funny things that their little cousins do and say. They even make observations about how one of their cousins make the poutiest face they've ever seen :D. When I take the time to listen to their constant chatter... I would probably log over 50% cousin material (maybe only 2nd to Adventures in Odyssey :)!!!).

Car Trouble

2011-06-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, on the way out to Music Practice, our car stopped working on the freeway. After successfully coasting over to the shoulder and calling for a tow and Matthew (because the tow truck would not be able to accomodate me, Seth and Abby). I suggested for us to pray:

Me: Ok, kids we should pray.

Seth: Ok, what should we pray for?

Me: We should thank God for keeping us safe when we were pulling over, that we have a cell phone to call for help, that Daddy was in town to come get us, and that other drivers were paying attenting so they didn't hit us...

Seth: Yes! We should also pray that nobody drove by really fast to take off my arm!!! (We had no signals, so I had Seth stick his arm out the window...)

Me: ... yes, Seth, you may thank God for your arm :D.

I love that there are so many things we can thank God for...

Love's final Letter to her husband

2011-06-27T17:08:00.000-07:00

O may I have faith as deep as Mary's, on the night of her husband's execution for his faith and stand for our precious Lord Jesus Christ:

My Dear Heart,—Before I write a word further, I beseech thee, think not that it is thy wife, but a friend now that writes to thee. I hope thou hast freely given up thy wife and children to that God, who hath said, in Jeremiah 49:11, ‘Leave thy fatherless children, I will preserve them alive, and let thy widow trust in me.’ Thy Maker will be my husband, and a father to thy children. O that the Lord would keep thee from having one troubled thought for thy relations! I desire freely to give thee up into thy Father’s hands, and not only look upon it as a crown of glory for thee to die for Christ, but as an honour to me, that I should have an husband to leave for Christ. I dare not speak to thee, nor have a thought within my own heart, of my unspeakable loss, but wholly keep my eye fixed upon thy inexpressible and inconceivable gain. Thou leavest but a sinful, mortal wife, to be everlastingly married to the Lord of glory: thou leavest but children, brothers and sisters, to go to the Lord Jesus, thy eldest brother: thou leavest friends on earth to go to the enjoyment of saints and angels, and the spirits of just men made perfect in glory: thou dost but leave earth for heaven, and changest a prison for a palace. And if natural affections should begin to arise, I hope that spirit of grace that is within thee will quell them; knowing that all things here below are but dung and dross in comparison of those things that are above. I know thou keepest thine eye fixed on the hope of glory, which makes thy feet trample on the loss of earth.

My dear, I know God hath not only prepared glory for thee, and thee for it; but I am persuaded he will sweeten the way for thee to come to the enjoyment of it. When thou art putting on thy clothes that morning, O think, I am now putting on my wedding garments, to go to be everlastingly married to my Redeemer! And when the messenger of death comes to thee, let him not seem dreadful to thee; but look on him as a messenger that brings thee tidings of eternal life. When thou goest up the scaffold, think (as thou saidst to me) it is but thy fiery chariot, to carry thee up to thy Father’s house. And when thou layest down thy precious head to receive thy father’s stroke, remember what thou saidst to me, though thy head were severed from thy body, yet in a moment thy soul should be united to thy head, the Lord Jesus, in heaven. And though it may seem something bitter, that by the hands of men we are parted a little sooner than otherwise we might have been; yet let us consider, it is the decree and will of our Father; and it will not be long ere we shall enjoy one another in heaven again. Let us comfort one another with these sayings. Be comforted, my dear heart, it is but a little stroke, and thou shalt be there where the weary shall be at rest, and where the wicked shall cease from troubling. Remember, though thou mayst eat thy dinner with bitter herbs, yet thou shalt have a sweet supper with Christ that night. My dear, by what I write unto thee, I do not hereby undertake to teach thee; for these comforts I have received from the Lord by thee. I will write no more, nor trouble thee any further, but commit thee into the arms of that God with whom, ere long, thou and I shall be. Farewell, my dear, I shall never see thy face more, till we both behold the face of the Lord Jesus at the great day.

Mary Love, July 14, 1651.

Alone

2011-05-10T13:54:00.001-07:00

Last night, this was a part of Abby's prayer:

"... thank you, God, that Great Grandpa and Great Uncle Jack could be in heaven with you, and pray that Great Grandma and Great Aunt Ginny are getting used to living by themseleves..."

I echo your sweet thoughts, Abby!

Dear Family, may the Lord continue to show Himself faithful to reveal the truth of Heaven and His soothing grace to each hurting one. May His providential hand be evident in your lives... in work, at home, in health, through private struggles, at school, in the community, and even in the mundane daily chores.

Sending you a BIG HUG!

Perfect Timing

2011-04-07T23:20:00.000-07:00

When I was 10, without much warning, my family packed up and moved from Taiwan to California. Upon starting High School, I started attending various churches regularly. Shortly after I was 18, I acknowledged Jesus as my God and Savior. At 22, I was devastated that I wasn’t finished yet at UCLA and had to stay another year...

God’s sovereign hand… perfect timing

Without being brought here to the United States, I would not have been introduced to Jesus. Without accepting Christ as my Savior and Lord, I would not have been involved in the Grace On Campus Bible Study at UCLA that transformed my heart and life. Without staying that 5^th year at UCLA, I would not have met Matthew, God's gift and tool to "hold on" to me. Without my husband, I would not have been linked to the amazing Holbrook family and Grace Church family...

God’s sovereign hand… perfect timing

This morning at about 6:30, the phone rang. It was Mom, calling for Matthew. Dad was gone on a business trip and she needed her first born son. Grandpa Norris has gone to sleep last night and woke up in heaven! He must be so excited to be able to ditch his Parkinsons ravaged body, the wheelchair, aprons, and all them handkerchiefs! I picture him prancing and darting from one place to another, on the streets of gold, eating and drinking all sorts of delights without waiting for things to be "mechanical soft" or thickened! As Aaron said, he is probably fixing everything in heaven and saving all the parts J. But here below, I am thankful that Mom was able to have Matthew and Aaron (who just happened to be in town for the week) with her and Grandma.

God’s sovereign hand… perfect timing

After some final good-byes, the mortuary took Grandpa’s body. Everyone reconvened at Mom’s house. Through the tears, we celebrated Grandpa’s full life. Mom told us that a decision was made yesterday that due to Grandpa’s need for additional care, Grandpa and Grandma were not going to be able to live in the same unit anymore. Mom woke up in the early praying for wisdom and peace. Then, her phone rang…

God’s sovereign hand… perfect timing

Thank You, Lord, for Your perfect timing. Thank You for allowing us to see and recognize your mighty hand upon the details… in hindsight. Thank You for shielding and protecting our eyes and understanding when knowing would be too overwhelming for us to bear. Thank You Lord, for teaching us to trust You in our steps and to challenge us to live a life of no regrets. I praise You for Your good and faithful servant… Grandpa Norris.

I miss you already, Grandpa! Love you, see you soon!

New Toy

2011-02-08T14:41:00.000-08:00

Just got a new camera with a bigger zoom for all these fun sporting events for my children :). It also has some cool functions to make pictures "artsy"! Sometimes, technology makes me giddy :D

"Fish eye" effect :)

Didn't get a picture of "sleeping Isaac" :( He woke up and asked me what I was doing!!! Can't believe it! Nex time...

Christian Character

2011-01-24T21:28:00.000-08:00

While answering questions on the application for student representative for his class this afternoon:

Isaac: Mom, do I have "a good Christian character"?

Me: Well... what do you think?

Isaac: (pause) Well, if I don't, I need to go get one...

If only everything is that easy :)

Happy Birthddy, Seth!!!

2011-01-20T23:36:00.000-08:00

Caramel Chocolate Wow cake!!!

My most favorite middle child is a 9-year-old!!!

I can still remember 9 years ago on this day, getting out of bed at 2:30am and jumping in the shower... and how your daddy thought I was just a crazy pregnant girl :). By the time we left for the hospital, I was all clean (with nicely curled hair and just a touch of make-up so not to get lipstick on you when you came out!). You were born on a Sunday morning, about 6 am. You did make Daddy late for 1st service, but not too late to teach Sunday School and attend 2nd service! How considerate! A-ma was with us when you come out. A-gon stayed home to watch Isaac. I think Daddy took my camera to church to show you off to Grandpa and Grandma and the rest of our family and church family! When Daddy brought Isaac and A-gon to see you, Isaac was so sweet and gentle with you. He was such a proud big brother... welcoming his little baby brother with all sorts of soft little kisses on your head! It still makes my eyes well up remembering how my boys met :). When Daddy came back from church, he brought a little red rose from the top of the piano... I think Mr. Gronewold clipped it for you to show our church family that a new baby was born. We used to do that at our church. I'm not sure why we don't any more.

Mrs. Steiger's special birthday pencil jar :)

Grandma's getting some "sugar"!

Well, my sweet Sethy, you are not 7 pounds and 21 inches anymore. I am so grateful to be your mama... even if you tell me that I have bigger thighs than your dad :). I love that you always want hugs (and tells me that "Hugs are what keeps you alive!"), even when you are at school. You make me laugh with all your little antics and sayings. Even yesterday when we were enjoying your birthday lunch of Western Bacon Cheese Burger without barbecue sauce, you told me that Amanda (the girl that you sit next to) is the one with the bananna colored hair :D. How descriptive!!! I don't think I've ever thought of anyone with bananna colored hair! I love your goofy sense of humor and how you and your brother so enjoy each other's company. You two are the perfect roommates. I am thankful that God has given you a spirit that desires the best for others. It makes my heart glad when you genuinely celebrate with Isaac or Abby when they have a victory or do well in something. I am thankful for your tender heart that desires to pray for those who do not know Jesus yet. I love that you are so kind and patient with your little cousins. I think you will be a great daddy one day!

Trying out the new Ripstick

New pet... Jerry Sea Swisher

This last year was an import one for you, you were given promission to take Communion for the first time in December, and the three fold communion just a couple of weeks ago. Daddy and Mommy are glad to give you this privilege because that you have shown a clear understanding of your sin, of repentance, and of the Cross. I'm grateful that God is working and will continue to finish the work He has begun in your life!

Happy birthday my Monkey Boy! I thank God for loaning you to our family. I pray that Mommy and Daddy will stand before God one day and hear "Well done, good and faithful servants. You have been wise and diligent in guarding over My precious treasures in Isaac, Seth, and Abigail..." We desire to teach you and ground you in the Word of God. I am thankful that we see a desire in you to know Jesus more and to follow Him. I love you, buddy! May God continue to grow you into a God-fearing young man!

Choices

2011-01-11T11:36:00.000-08:00

Choosing gratitude means choosing joy. But that choice doesn't come without effort and intentionality. It's a choice that requires constantly renewing my mind with the truth of God's Word, setting my heart to savor God and His gifts, and disciplining my tongue to speak words that reflect His goodness and grace -- until a grateful spirit becomes my reflexive response to all of life.

--- Nancy Leigh DeMoss in Choosing Gratitude

I pray that in 2011, my response to discouragement be that of Dr. Wayne Grudem's:

"Honestly, I don't often become discouraged. I continue to see evidence of God's work in my life and the lives of those around me, and I am simply overwhelmed with thankfulness to Him."

Thanksgiving Reflections

2010-11-25T23:46:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving... one of my favorite American holidays. I love that we set aside time to think about what we are thankful for and what we thank God for! I think if we did that more often, we would have such better perspective on life.

Here are some of my "top thankful items":

My husband - I'm thankful that Matthew is deeply in love with Jesus, His Word, and His character. I love that he champions the Truth and is bold in proclaiming it! His thoughtfulness and service to others exemplifies to us in how to love sacrificially, with the Christ's attitude of viewing others as more important than ourselves. I'm thankful that he leads our home on the basis of God's Truth and that he not only shepherds us spiritually, he also has a clear perspective in leading our family in action, thought, service... and of course in all sorts of fun :)
My children - I'm thankful that I have 3 very distinctly different kids :) I love my Isaac's "fight" and determination in excelling in life. I am warmed by Seth's desire to seek God in service and "hugs are what keeps you alive" mentality. I am thrilled to see God develop in Abby a spirit of thoughtfulness and generosity.
My family - I'm thankful for my parents and brothers (and family) in giving me my "background" :) I'm grateful for the characters that my parents instilled in me to work hard and to look for bargains!!! I'm thankful for for the family that God allowed me to marry into... for the spiritual heritage that came with becoming a Holbrook. I'm especially spoiled to have some family near by and for planned and impromptu cousin-times.
My church family - I love our family at Grace! I love that we are like-minded and like-hearted and have a common goal. While we may not all take the same route to get there, I love that God has allowed unity in the midst of our diversity!
My school family - Well, my children's school family... I love that we have the opportunity to send our children to FCS, a school that is committed to teach and train the students to love God and to work hard at shaping each child to have a Biblical world view! I love that my children are not having to constantly decipher truth from error at school and that we can build on and enforce Biblical principals that have been introduced at school on the home front.
My God, and Lord, Jesus Christ - Who was and Is and Is to come!

Happy Thanksgiving to you all! I pray that you will spend some time thinking upon the many many blessings that you've been given and be so very thankful for each one!

Burden - Dependence

2010-11-20T22:30:00.000-08:00

People say all the time with good intentions, "God will never place a burden on you so heavy that you cannot carry it."

Really?

My experience is that God will place a burden on you so heavy that you cannot possibly carry it alone. He will break your back and you will. He will buckle your legs until you fall flat beneath the crushing weight of your load. All the while He will walk beside you waiting for you to come to the point where you must depend on Him.

"My power is made perfect in your weakness," He says, as we strain under our burden.

-- Greg Lucas (Wrestling with an Angel)

When you are not looking

2010-11-03T00:55:00.000-07:00

Abby and I went to one of our friend's baby shower this past Saturday. (Just one day after our Pastor Brian welcomed their new baby boy into the family!)

During our 15 minute drive to church, Abby had baby on the brain :). She asked lots of questions about how the baby grows, what it feel like for the baby to kick, how do the doctors know if the baby is a boy or a girl (when they are all born with short hair!), and other random questions. After we talked about how babies grow in the mama's womb, how they are protected by the amniotic fluid, and the function of the umbilical cord in supplying the babies with all that they need... she wanted to know how they get in:

Abby: So... how do the babies get in the mama's tummy?

Me: God puts the babies in, Sweet Girl. God is all powerful and can do everything, right?

Abby: Yup, He can do everything.

Abby: (After a LONG PAUSE) Uuh... does He do it when you're not looking???

Me: Um.... Sometimes...

The Valley of Vision

2010-10-20T17:56:00.000-07:00

LORD, HIGH AND HOLY, MEEK AND LOWLY,

Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision,

where I live in the depths but see thee in the heights;

hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold thy glory.

Let me learn by paradox

that the way down is the way up,

that to be low is to be high,

that the broken heart is the healed heart,

that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,

that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,

that to have nothing is to possess all,

that to bear the cross is to wear the crown,

that to give is to receive,

that the valley is the place of vision.

Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells,

and the deeper the wells the brighter thy stars shine;

Let me find thy light in my darkness,

thy life in my death,

thy joy in my sorrow,

thy grace in my sin,

thy riches in my poverty,

thy glory in my valley.

A few "catch up" posts

2010-10-18T11:32:00.000-07:00

With a rare "non-running around" Saturday, I was able to upload some more picture :) Take a look at the posts in July and August.

More to come...

High Efficiency Model

2010-10-11T14:32:00.001-07:00

Have you ever been so "efficient" that you are running laundry, scrubbing the bathrooms, making dinner all at the same time? Well, I thought I was doing a great job maximizing my minutes... until I ran to put the load of laundry into the dryer and discovered that it was EMPTY!!! HA HA HA HA HA HA... so much for getting laundry done before picking up the kids.

Just to whet your appetite...

2010-10-08T14:20:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry for not been more on top of updating this blog (for the 2 of you that check this site). Well, you probably won't see this because you have already given up on me :(.

Life has been busy and uploading pictures is sooo time consuming (especially when you so behind...). Here just a few pictures of our summer to keep you interested as I work on getting caught up:

Isaac's Stanley Cup from FCS Street Hockey team:

Cousins!!!

Hume Lake:

Flying to Taiwan:

Lake Almanor:

New Cousin - Elijah Holbrook Plumb!!!

More Cousins!

Laguan Beach Outing

Friends from the past...

I will be back posting many of these "events" as I am able. Baby steps :) Keep looking... lots more pictures to share!!!

Lake Almanor with "Imported Cousins"

2010-08-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

Ahhh... beautiful Lake Almanor!

Due to different scheduling issues, our family went to Lake Almanor a little later this year. We left on 8/2 and got home 8/10. Seven full & beautiful days of camping! What bliss... waterskiing, skipping rocks, building traps, catching frogs, playing baseball, reading books, napping in hammacks, biking to the boat lauch, sipping Pine Shack shakes, haunting for homemade fudge, breakfasting at Carole's... is there a better life? I submit not!!!

Also due to scheduling issues (and Elijah's birth and the health of Grandpa & Grandma), we thought we were going to be "alone" this year. Just our little family... no cousins or siblings :( With that anticipation, we worked on "importing" some family. LOL. We invited the Wu side of the family to join us! My brothers, William (and Vanessa) and Frank were not able to come. Only my brave sister-in-law, Kari (thank you for being a trooper!), took on the challenge and came out with her 3 kids, Annalise, Ethan and Jared. We are so thankful! What a sweet few weeks for us to live and play together!!! I will always look back at this time and treasure the remembrances in my heart!

As it turns out, Aaron & Annette and family were able to make their schedule line up to be at Almanor around the same time as us. We even got to see Andrew & Melissa and family for a little bit. On top of all this extra fun, Rebekah made an appearance with A GUY!!! The GUY by the end of the week became future UNCLE JAMES :).

Why did you park so far away, Dad?

"Ummm... what are you doing, Seth? You WILL get wet!"

Abby's funky hair... no wires, really! I think the dirt was holding her hair in place?!?!?

Very cool pink sunset

Seth is playing "outfield".... not looking too excited :)

Isaac, Seth, Ethan & Jared... goofy cousins :o

Good job, Annalise!

Kari & Jared, cuddling on the boat :)

Sweet and innocent Ethan

Awww... my knight in shining armor

Abby double skied this year... on her skis, not on her face!

I love this action shot... Morgan and Abby flying!!!

For what was suppose to be a quiet ho hum abnormal year at Almanor, we had all sorts of extra bonuses!!! I know that this will go down in history as one of the most memorable Almanor years :). Until next year...

Flying out to see Mom and Dad

2010-07-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

On the heels of Hume (about 11 hours to be exact), I was called away to go back to Taiwan to visit my parents. My Mom and Dad have been living somewhat permenantly in Taiwan since 2001. With some of my mother's recent health developments, my heart was pulled to go back for a visit. Poor Matthew, abandoned by his wife again to hold down the fort for another 10 days :(.

Taiwan's "new" high speed subway system

Typical Taiwanese "fast food" - little stands on the side of the streets...

Fancy hotel in Chai Yi - my parents' hometown

Interesting way of using the playground structures...

no children, just adults stretching or "massaging" their arms and legs

Some cool functional decorative water pumps

in one of the parks that we went to for our morning walk...

Glorious rainbow... we had torrential thunderstorm downpours each aftenoon!

Farmer's markets! I love it :)

Happy birthday, Mommy!

Taking a 4 hour red eye bus to the airport... coming home!!!

God, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to see Mom and Dad for a brief time. Thank you for giving a supportive husband that is willing to sacrifice his comfort and time to allow me to be a daughter. I'm so grateful for the family and friends that stepped in during this time to help me with my kids & husband, my flights, my church responsiblities, and most of all, for lifting me up in prayer to You! You are an awesome God and is definitely in control of all things, even flights. Thank you for getting me home in time to welcome Kari and the kids, and to prep for Speechless. Continue to work out all circumstances and continue to channel hearts. You are amazing!

HUME!!!

2010-07-18T00:27:00.000-07:00

My beautiful girls and our very cool shirts :)

For the 3rd consecutive summer, I have had the privilege of going up as a counselor with our High School girls to Hume Lake. This trip is always a step of faith for me... not just because I'm leaving my family for an entire week, but a stretch out of my "comfort zone". I've never been very good at all the "drama", "power struggles" and "hormonal" stuff even back when I was in High School. Now that I am an OLDER WOMAN, I still struggle with all those interpersonal relationship things... especially with high school girls. Because of all that, God always forces me to approach this trip with much fear and trepidation on my knees. So, I do recognize that my husband is RIGHT (again) in saying, "You want to go. It's good for you!"

Here are some snap shots of our week at camp:

Bye, Jolene :( I'll miss you, my "partner in crime".

My runners... I had to get up at the crack of dawn with them so that they can get their miles in.

Selah, my friend and co-counselor this year!

Landon, you look soooo coooool!

Even with some interesting issues with Selah's cabin with another church, we had a wonderful time! I love that new friendships were formed with other churches, acquaintances became friends, bonds were strengthened. We had some amazing God ordained share times. We got to celebrate Eden's 18th birthday. We embraced Mikayla into the family. We ate, slept (and listened to each other's mumblings in the night), played, studied, prayed, memorized, and cried together. It was perfect :).

Thank you, Lord, for allowing a place like Hume Lake to exist. For a long time I was "too Chinese" to recognize the value of a camp like this and a time away for kids like this. Thank you, God, for removing my blinders and allowing me to be excited about sending my kids to Hume in a few years.

Elijah Holbrook Plumb

2010-07-17T21:56:00.000-07:00

While I was away at Hume, my newest nephew (for now) was born!!! Matthew saved our family visit for when I got home (so sweet!). So, our first stop after dinner... Plumb Residence to visit 4 day old Elijah!!!

Welcome to our family, Elijah!!! You are PERFECT :). Abby was happy to meet "Baby Larry" at last... ha ha ha ha. We are thankful that God has given you to be a part of this family!!!

FCS Street Hockey Champs!

2010-07-16T23:05:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of street hockey? I had not, until this year. Street hockey is hockey played on black top with hockey sticks and a plastic ball (puck) that is about the size of a racquetball, but hard and "flat". There is no roller skate or roller blades involved... just plain old tennies.

As a 4th grader at FCS, Isaac had the opportunity to tryout for the school team. Matthew and I were hesitant to allow Isaac to tryout much less to play, because of his commitment to baseball. After much thought and prayer, Isaac tried out against 40+ other 4th graders, and made the team of 12!

It was great fun to watch him pick up a new sport so quickly and have so much fun with his friends at school... we are glad that we made the right choice :)

On May 8th, all the schools gathered at the Honda Center for the 2010 Ducks SCORE Street Hockey Shootout, an all day tournament competing for the "Stanley Cup". After a full day of craziness in getting Abby to the Princess Tea at church, Seth to and from his baseball game, and my car breaking down in the middle of one of the transports... FCS came out victorious!!! Way to three-peat Lions! What a fun time!

Over the summer, all the players got a turn at spending a few days with the "Stanley Cup". Isaac had his turn from July 1st - 3rd. It was fun to be able to show the cup to his cousins and family as we gathered to swim and play at Mom and Dad's house.

We are proud of you, Isaac! You make good use of the quickness and agility that God's given you. More importantly, we are thankful that you and your team exhibit good sportmanship on the rink. God is pleased with your attitudes even when bad calls were made. We were honored when your coaches told us that you were a joy to be on the team :)

What time is it? It's Cousin Time :)

2010-07-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

Whenever Andrew and Melissa make the trek down to Orange County, there is a Cousin Party :). Everyone make great efforts to come out and congregate at Mom and Dad's!

What a joy to see the love and excitement these cousins have for one another!

Lord, I pray that as we watch and guard over these little ones, You will keep them each close to You and to each other.

Life After VBS

2010-06-26T13:24:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day after Vacation Bible School (pictures to come in a separate post!) for our little family. With Matthew gone for the Resolved Conference with our College Group in Palm Desert, and some workers at the house to do some repairs on our sprinkler system, the kids and I "took the day off" :).

Initially, I had planned on getting A LOT of laundry done (VBS week is very disruptive to our "regular routine"... especially laundry). When the gardeners needed the water turned off to the house to do the repairs necessary for our irrigation system to work properly again, I had to toss my plan out the window. So... we left the house shortly after 9:30 and went to the library, signed up for the Summer Reading Program, checked out the maximum amount of books allotted, and went to the park (to read, eat snacks, and play). Ahhh... what a wonderful way to spend a beautiful Saturday morning!

Summer IS HERE!!!

Too Hot for a Job

2010-06-14T18:50:00.000-07:00

Recently in the news, there was a woman suing her former employer for letting her go because her looks were too distracting to her co-workers.

Tonight, Matthew and I had a quick exchange making reference to the woman:

"Oh... it's not like the woman that's suing because she is too hot?"

Overhearing that comment, Seth asked (in all seriousness) :

"Who's she suing? The sun?"

Yes, he is my child that makes me laugh...

Season End... well, at lease a short pause :)

2010-06-13T21:12:00.000-07:00

We've had a VERY FULL last couple of months life :). This weekend was a punctuation mark... I think it's only a comma, but we'll take it!

Yesterday, we had the Closing Ceremonies for West Yorba Linda Little Leagues. Although neither Isaac's team nor Seth's team won the League Championship this year, they both accepted plaques for being Academic All-Stars (the top 12 highest GPA players of their division). I am thankful that both boys work hard and take their responsibilities seriously both on and off the field!

This weekend was also the Team Parties for both boys. Both Seth and Isaac had "pool parties" :). Isaac's party was at Mom and Dad's, right after church and before College Group today! Such fun times and memory builders! We will miss the friends and connections that we've made this year... but we look forward to see what God will bring into our lives next season. We have prayed diligently each day, for our family to be a light in this arena. I am thankful that we are able to be a living testimony for the Lord on the field.

The reason why this weekend is only a comma, and not a period, is because we found out this weekend that Isaac made the All Stars Team for his age bracket!!! Very exciting... more baseball :). Congratulations, Isaac! You've worked hard to show yourself worthy of being on this All Stars Team. We will continue to pray that you will be an example to your teammates of someone that desires to honor God in all that you do. We pray that you would show your love for God in your actions, attitude, and speech. May God be honored in this new team through you!

I will post pictures very soon. I have a lot to post :) I may cheat and back date some of the posts so that things will be chronological... keep checking!

Kite Flying Fun

2010-04-24T21:21:00.000-07:00

I haven't had much time to sit and blog... but while we were working on getting the house picked up and "cleaned up", my children decided to take an unscheduled break and fly kites. What?!? Before this BMOM (aka big mean ogre mom) can yell out, "No! No break for you!!!", they were all already out the door and running all around, giggling like little kids (oh... they are little kids!).

I would have never guessed that those cheap thin kites can actually fly and offer so much endless fun... in the back yard! I am thankful that my children enjoy playing together... especially in the midst of adversity (mom making them clean the house!).

Letters From Felix

2010-03-05T12:38:00.000-08:00

Seth is in 2nd grade, which means that he gets to do the Felix project this year :). Many of you may remember this project from Isaac's 2nd grade year... this is a fun project that teaches the kids a bit about geography.

Felix is a little rabbit that gets lost in an airport. Much to his owner's dismay, he decides to travel around the world a bit before returning home (May 15th). Every couple of days, he sends a letter or postcard to his owner from the various places that he has visited.

Since we are not able to physically send Felix to all of you, we are sending him to you through cyberspace :). Seth would love for Felix to visit with you and get a postcard from Felix back at school regarding his visit (something like: Hi, Seth! I am visiting your friends in Sydney, Australia today! The Oprah House is super BIG!!! Off to my next adventure! See you soon. Love, Felix). Felix is to mail his postcards to:

Friends Christian School

Seth Holbrook

c/o Mrs. Horn

5151 Lakeview Ave.

Yorba Linda, CA 92886

Pleas take good care of Felix and thank you for particiating!!!

Surrounded by Love

2010-03-04T22:41:00.000-08:00

Birthday Princess crown :)

Sigh... I sigh not because I am now "officially old" (so my kids tell me!), but because my heart is full tonight! Thank you, each one of you, that have celebrated me today. It so such a lovely and special birthday day, that I just have to brag a little... to myself... of how God has surrounded me with love in such a tangible way!

The day started off with a pancake breakfast! The very best way to start!!! My kids and sweet husband got up early and made pancakes, eggs, and bacon for me! What a special effort on a SCHOOL DAY! Amazingly, we even got cleaned up and got everyone off to school on time!!!

Next, Mom, Bethany and kids, and I had a lovely time exploring the Orange Circle. We went through several fun little shops and a delicious Cuban lunch at the Felix's Cafe. I had plenty of leftovers to share with my kids when they got home from school! Isaac wanted to know when I would take him there so that he can order his own food :).

After lunch, Mom pampered me to a manicure & pedicure treatment. I was told that is was at the prompting of Matthew... he was sure that girls are suppose to get pedicures more than once every 40 years! It was very nice. I learned how to do (ya know, it for the next time I go when I turn 80)... LOL!!!

Pretty princess toes!!!

Isaac had a make-up game tonight (because of the rain last Saturday). So, the kids got home from school, hurried through their homework, got ready for the BURRR COLD field, and we're off. Some how, the word got out to the team that it was my birthday, the team showered me with all kinds of goodies and love! I got balloons, flowers, a very cool "#1 Team Mom" shirt, a "Team Mom throne", and super yummy red velvet cupcakes! The team even got together and sang "happy birthday" to me after the post-game huddle!!! So cute!

As if that wasn't enough, Matthew insisted that we go out for dessert after the game! We went to Polly's and had birthday pie (which the kids declared the best "birthday cake ever"!). No, the waitress didn't offer to put 40 candles on my piece of pie... which probably would have been a fire hazard... that's just fine by me!!!

Beautiful collection of birthday flowers!!!

I thank God for each of you that have touched my life these last 40 years! I am grateful for your remembrance of me and for taking time out to pray for me, Skype, text, email or call me(extra points for those that called and sang!!!)! You have made me feel very special & very loved :). I pray that the Lord would use me to bless you as much as you have blessed me!!!

Diligence = Character Trait of the Week

2010-03-03T14:15:00.000-08:00

Isaac is the Student of the Week this week!!! He was appropriately picked to exemplify the character trait of Diligence!

Isaac, we are proud of you for being diligent in all that you do. It makes my heart glad to see you work hard in the different areas of your life: in sports (baseball, basketball, football, tennis, and any other ball that you get your hands on), in Bible (how you work on your AWANA verses and school verses), in school (not just in math, but English, science, even geography), and in work (helping out with chores & with your siblings, working hard to earn money for Sacramento, recycling bottles for Aunt Bekah). I pray that you will continue to work hard and strive to be excellent in all that you do... because it pleases the Lord!

Woohooo Upward Wolves!!!

2010-02-27T23:44:00.000-08:00

The Upward Wolves... Seth is the #3 jersey in the front row.

Tonight was Seth's last basketball game :) Although we got rained out for baseball in the morning, basketball IS NOT weather dependent! Good thing :).

Seth joined Upward Basketball this season. This is an 8 week season, consisting of only one 1-hour practice and one 1-hour game a week. Much less time intensive than baseball... but not any less fun for my little guy :). This program is Christ centered (Bible verses each week, prayer before each game, devotional during half-time) and non-competitive (no scores kept, everyone rotates in 2 or 3 times per game). Great first exposure to "organized basketball"! I wasn't sure if my very competitive son would enjoy this atmosphere very much, but he had a blast!!! I think he just liked getting to play :).

Opening the game in prayer!

Coach Marty! Introducing his team with style and pizazz :)

Post-game snack huddle

Seth receiving his "Most Christlike" star for the last game!

Isaac and Abby tried their hand on taking some action shots of the game. Good job, guys!!! I thought some of these turned out really cool:

Seth's faithful fans... good job cheering your brother on!!!

Rain Rain Go Away...

2010-02-27T07:56:00.000-08:00

Today was supposed to be OPENING DAY for baseball. My boys got up bright and early (Seth was scheduled to report at the field at 8:00 am for a 9 o'clock game), got all geared up, then looked out the window... RAIN :(

No baseball today... at 7:30, I had to break the news to my sweet husband who left at 6:40 to drive down the mountain for the games (Matthew was already half way down the mountain from the High School Retreat at Big Bear). Sorry, Babe, turn around!

The forecast says "rain" again for next weekend. Baseball season is NOT off to a good start :(

My little trooper princess: Rain? Snow? Whatever... I'm ready to go :)

Baseball Baseball Baseball

2010-02-20T21:04:00.000-08:00

My handsome guys!!!

Yep... it's that time again! Baseball season is starting!!! Thank You, God, for holding off the rain to allow us to have Picture Day, Opening Ceremonies, and an Exhibition Game!

This year, Isaac is on the AAA Giants and Seth is on the AA Padres. Both boys are very excited about their teams. If you are interested, email me and I will get you a copy of the game schedule :).

Seth & his toothless grin :)

Isaac - looking so professional

AA Padres - Seth is 2nd on the left in the front row

AAA Giants - Isaac is 1st on from the right in the front row

See y'all at the field!!!

100th Day of School

2010-02-19T13:26:00.000-08:00

How fun that the 1st graders celebrate the 100th day of school :). I know that the teachers have been preparing the kids for this special day since the beginning of school.

For this special occasion, each child was assigned to make/decorate a hat/crown to wear on their parade. During the parade, the the kids will count by 2's, 5's, and 10's to 100. They march around the playground area all around the older students... it's really quite a sight!

Happy 100th Day of School!

Happy Valentine's Day :)

2010-02-14T23:55:00.000-08:00

While Matthew and I don't celebrate February 14th Valentine's Day, the kids and I celebrate it :). It is a bit difficult to avoid all the pink and red and candies when there are school parties involved...

Here is a special Valentine going out to our Dominican Republic missions team... all 28 of you (including Matthew), serving in the DR for a little over 5 days :). They will be flying back on the 16th. I'm sorry it's sideways, can't seem to get it rotated :(

Geography Bee?!? Never heard of it!

2010-02-12T22:55:00.000-08:00

Isaac tried out for the Geography Bee a few weeks ago and came home and told me that he was chosen to represent his school for this Bee. Up to now, I've never heard of a Geography Bee. As Isaac explained to me, it's a cross between a Spelling Bee, Math Olympics, and the Speech Meet... huh?!?!?

Tyler, Isaac, Noah, and Jaleen (the four 4th graders of FCS)

So today was the big day! Isaac was in a room with 15 other 4th graders in other Christian schools answering a series of 40 questions. These questions can be anything from geography (Biblical, US, World, etc.) to land forms (names of parts of the river or land formations) and other general information like weather or agriculture. The whole competition took about 2 1/2 hours. Isaac did great (much better than how his mother would have scored...)! He was disappointed not to have received a blue ribbon... but hey, I've always liked red better :)

Great job, Isaac! I'm proud of you for knowing so much about this world that God has created for us!!!

Receiving his red ribbon :)

HEY, MOM... look at what we can do!!!

2010-01-23T00:49:00.000-08:00

Seth has been patiently waiting for the sky to clear to try out his brand new big bike! Although we were doubtful that this weekend would be completely rain-free, it was good enough for my boys!!!

So, while Matthew (home, because the High School Winter Retreat got cancelled) took Abby to her last tennis lesson, we had a little time to ride our bikes out front :).

A little big... but not for long :)

Isaac doesn't seem to like this arrangement so much...

I love to watch my boys play together (yes, they are sometimes loud and obnoxious)!!! They are such good friends. What a blessing! Lord, I pray that they will continue to be each other's best friends and help them to challenge each other to love You more as they grow!

Career On Parade... Abby's turn :)

2010-01-22T22:49:00.000-08:00

In Mrs. Hunt's first grade class, as a part of the social studies curriculum, the students have the opportunity to explore different jobs in the work force. At the conclusion of this unit, the students each pick a career that they are "interested in pursuing in the future".

Abby did not chose to follow her brothers in choosing to be a scientist, she had her own opinions. She chose to be a teacher (to orphans, like Aunt Bekah -- she's told me very consistently and precisely this answer many times before, for the last year or so). I think she has put much thought into this choice!

Abby, I pray that God will continue to direct you in the path that He would like you to take. May your heart be soft toward His calling for you.

Eight!

2010-01-20T23:15:00.000-08:00

My dear Sethy, you are a big eight-year-old today! How you amaze me, my peace maker, my "hugary" sweet boy :). I think you are right when you told me that "hugs are good! They are what keeps you alive!" I love that :). I love your sharing heart... that you when you get a prize or treat, you save some for your siblings. I love your unparalleled ability to climb any tree with confidence and agility. I love how you live life with wreckless abandon :). I love how you have the gift to make others laugh. I love watching you with little ones -- your gentle care and patience with each one of your cousins and your friends' siblings. I love the depth you see in God's Word... even at this young age.

I treasure the gift that God gave to me in you. I am grateful that God placed in your heart to be so sensitive to needs around you and selflessly desire the best for others! I know that I can always count on you to run over to me at school and greet me with a hug (even when you are in the middle of an intense tether ball game)! I wonder how long before you think it's uncool to hug your mother in public... I hope not for a long long time!

New BIG BOY bike!

Nothing like getting present and being able to play with it IMMEDIATELY!!!

My favorite Seth, you challenge me to be better :) May God continue to grow you into a young man that desires to live for Him and to shine brightly for His glory and your good!

I love you, Sethy Bananna! Happy Birthday!!!

***************************************************

We had a little extra excitement for Seth's birthday this year. RAIN (and hail and stuff)!!!

Seth told me that he is going swimming...

We got home from school on Tuesday afternoon and most of our downstairs was covered with puddles of water... half of the carpet in our family room was squishy soaking wet :( We were thankful that we didn't have mud coming down the slops (like at Mom and Dad's house), but we were having a birthday party here in two days (Seth's birthday was on an AWANA Night, so he said we can celebrate a day later)!!! No problem, I thought. I will get someone here to suck up the water and dry the carpet and lay it back down IMMEDIATELY and we are good to go. Well... not so much. I didn't take into consideration that our house was going to be unbearably stinky (especially to Bethany's pregnant nose) and that the carpet nails will be sticking up (looking for little tender Rebekah Jane and Ezekiel hands and feet to grab and tear up!!!). So... Mom offered PLAN B :). Thank you, Mom and Dad, for hosting Seth's birthday breakfast dinner at your house! Thank you, Family, for spoiling Seth with all the love (and presents)!!!

Happy Birthday, Seth!!!

I hope you really wanted the Pineapple Upside Down Cake that you requested...

Christmas Day and Dad's Birthday (Observed)

2010-01-04T12:00:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 2, 2010, is Round Two of our 2009 Christmas :). We had all 13 + 1 cousins at Mom & Dad's house... and at one point all of them were awake!!!

Matthew's new DR shirt from Rebekah :)

Now what should I do with this one???

Daniel... what a servant!

Mom asked Selah, the brave, to come and take some family pictures! I took the opportunity to see if I can capture some shots of my little family:

I LOVE these cute dirty little bare feets :)

Thank you, Mom and Dad, for opening your home (once again) and welcoming this crazy troop!!! Thank you, Dad, for allowing us to celebrate you a little early -- and thanks for requesting the amazing prime rib that Mom made for dinner :)! Thank you for letting us ALL spend the night (not sure if you had a choice)! What a blessing for us to gather as a family to worship God, celebrate the birth of Jesus, fellowship with the saints, and share precious memories... all at the same time!

RINGING IN 2010... with the College Group!

2010-01-01T07:40:00.000-08:00

With the new year, we are given the opportunity to be involved with the College Ministry at Grace! So... we hosted a New Year's Eve Party to kicked off the year with this CRAZY group of "kids" :)

Looking forward to see what God has in store for us as we obey His prompting in serving and serving with the College Group!

OH NO!!! There is a WAR in the Boys' Room!!!

2009-12-31T14:11:00.000-08:00

While I was busy getting ready for the College Group New Year's Eve Party this afternoon, I realized that my boys have been dangerously quiet. I went upstairs to look for them, and this is what I found... WAR ZONE!!!

There were little plastic soldiers all lined up for battle in every corner and surface of their room (thanks for those, Kevan!)!!! Wow... although I was tempted to be mad, because now there is more stuff to pick up and put away, I was secretly impressed that my boys took time and energy to strategize their battle ground!!!!!

All that to say... I think I have REAL BOYS :0

Matt Luke Camp

2009-12-31T10:57:00.000-08:00

The boys decided to participate in this Baseball Camp again after a year off. It is a 3 day camp. We had nice cool winter weather for the first 2 days of baseball, but on the third day, it drizzled all day. Did a little water falling from the sky deter the players... of course not!!!

Seth - waiting for instructions

The boys had a great time learning drills and sharpening skills... but the had a blast playing the scrimmage games with their friends!!! So cute... I mean, WAY COOL :)

Christmas 2009!!!

2009-12-27T01:19:00.000-08:00

This year, we got to celebrate Christmas twice; the first time on our traditional Christmas Day, and then on January 2nd, with the whole big family (even Rebekah)!!!

Some might think... ugh, you had to do Christmas twice??? That is twice the cooking, cleaning, and mess making! What a nightmare! Nope, not here! In this family, we say: Yahoo!!! We get twice the fun and cousin time!!! What can be better :). See for yourself:

Decorating our beautiful tree from Costco :). I put the stand on a bit crookly (actually, a lot crook... then, I discovered the water bowl leaking, after the tree was decorated... lot of Tree Drama this year. LOL!)

Abby's failed attempt to "fly" the angel to the top of the tree :)

Seth's turn to try... oh, you are heavier than your sister!!!

TA DA :) We did it!!!

Christmas programs at school:

You like my Christmas outfit... complete with sparkly tights?!?

One of the highlights of our Christmas season: wandering through the Christmas lights on Christmas Eve (after a nice dinner and Christmas Eve Service!).

Christmas morning -- after a little time at home for our Christmas Bible time and presents, we went over to Grandpa & Grandma's house to have some more "family time":

Watch out for Ezekielosaurus!!!

As a part of our Christmas presents to our children, we gifted them an outing. Abby was given a trip with Daddy to San Francisco to see the musical, Wicked. The boys were given a trip with me to play in the snow in Big Bear. These two trips occurred simultaneously, the day after Christmas... it really was a great time!!!

Abby at The Palace with Daddy

Famous San Francisco Pier... not very many seals this year?!?

Riding the BART...

Recording all her sweet memories...

Super Fun SNOW DAY!!!

Here is a sample of our sledding run... bet you are jealous that you weren't invited :)

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-25T13:59:00.000-08:00

In case you did not get our Christmas card, here is an "e-version" :)

Greetings, dear ones! I still remember vividly when we were welcoming in Y2K and listening to Mary Did You Know and kissing my own little 1^st born son and imagining how she must have felt all those years ago, holding her precious little baby boy, knowing that He is the King of kings! With a blink of an eye, one whole decade has passed!

Here is a quick “fly-by” of our year:

2009 has been a full year, and a year of special trips, for this little Holbrook family J. On top of our Super Fun Traditional Summer Holbrook Lake Almanor Camping Trip, where both Isaac AND Seth have officially joined the ranks of skiers (Mom didn’t even have to get left behind in the water after helping with the ski J), we took 2 other family trips!!! In March, we packed up the family and flew out to the Dominican Republic to visit Rebekah (Matthew’s sister, who is missionary teacher. Here is her blog – http://web.me.com/tiarivka/Site/Blog/Blog.html). It was such a special time for us to see 1^st hand where God has placed Rebekah. The kids now have faces to match the names of the orphans, students, and teachers that we’ve been faithfully praying for. We had a “tag along” trip with Mark and Cindy (Matthew’s parents) in August, to Sun River Oregon. We had a blast going on whitewater rafting trips, family bike rides (Abby riding independently on a two wheeler!!!), kayaking adventures, nature center hikes, night time star gazing/observatory program, golfing, swimming, and just general do-nothing times!!! Thanks for letting us come play while you worked and “conferenced”, Mom and Dad!

Isaac – Our first-born one-decade-old son. He is now in 4^th grade at Friends Christian School! Isaac stills loves sports and reading. When you can’t find him curled with a book (usually about sports facts or a sports fiction), check outside. He is most likely with his brother, playing baseball, basketball, football, tennis or some other made-up game with a ball. This year, Isaac’s West Yorba Linda Little League AAA Angels were big time City Champions!!!

Seth – Our good little monkey boy is in 2^nd grade. Seth is following along Isaac’s footsteps (with a twist) and is doing a great job keeping up! Seth also loves sports and reading. But unlike Isaac, Seth was chosen to represent his class in the District Speech Meet in May. He recited Psalm 100 with perfect volume and expression and won a blue ribbon!!! Seth has transitioned very well to 2^nd grade, especially because he has Mrs. Horn, the teacher that had taught Andrew and Rebekah (Matthew’s brother and sister)!

Abigail – Our little princess started 1^st grade! She is the littlest peanut in her grade, but that doesn’t impede her confidence and love of school J. Abby is a big personality and is discovering the fun of having “friends”. Although Abby enjoys reading as much as the boys, it is common to find her alone in her room with an audio book playing, her hands busy with scissors or other crafting tools, and her mouth chattering on about something. This Christmas break, we may be spelling a lot of words, for Abby is the alternate to the District Spelling Bee in January.

Matthew – Matthew is coming up on his 14^th year at Action and our 13^th anniversary. He continues to be very involved with Grace Church of Orange as an elder, teaching the High School Sunday School class, and recently, he has committed to be involved with the College group. Aside from the High School and College retreats, trips, and conferences, Matthew had the opportunity to go on a short missions trip to Cambodia in August. This trip may be a catalyst to a whole new outreach opportunity for the High School and College groups through Speechless, a dramatic presentation of the Bible (www.speechless-online.com). During his spare time, Matthew continues to run. In May, he organized the 2^nd 200 mile relay in Northern California for our group. All the participants claimed that it was a blast… you can decide for yourself.

Alice - Alice continues to enjoy the bliss of being a “stay-at-home” mom. She is treasuring this Golden Year, where all 3 kids are at school from 9 to 3 and are all on the same campus! She fills her days with working in each of the kids’ classrooms, the school library, Bible Study, AWANA (mid-week Bible Club that the kids are involved in), Mom’s Club, Women’s Ministries, Worship Team, and supporting Matthew in the High School and College ministries. This past summer, she had the privilege of co-directing Vacation Bible School and going up, as a counselor, to Hume Lake with the High School girls. If you would like to see more pictures of our happenings, our blog address is: www.aliceholbrook.blogspot.com.

As I sit here and reflect on the abundant blessings that God has bestowed upon us… good health, a sound job, a great Christian school with teachers that love our children, a beautiful home filled with so much of our needs and wants, loving family near and far, wonderful church home for us to serve at and to be ministered to, safe cars to drive… I am so humbled by His goodness, lovingkindness, and grace! He has not only chosen to provide us with all things we need to live, move, and exist, God, through His sovereign and amazing love, also provided us with the perfect sacrifice through His Son, Jesus Christ! May we not lose sight of the importance and significance of the reason of Christmas, and give God the glory for all that He has done. May you have a merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year!!!

With our love,

Matthew, Alice, Isaac, Seth and Abigail

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?

Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?

Did you know that your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?

This sleeping child you're holding is the Great I AM.

The Nativity Story

2009-12-15T17:23:00.000-08:00

Abby's reading group performed a little play based on the Nativity story in Luke 2. It was sweet to see her dressed up as a shepherd :) Thank you for coming, Mom, and for bringing Grandpa Norris and Grandma Betsy! What a blessing for Abby to be able to share her "big moment" with her great-grandparents!!! What a great way to kick off the Christmas season!

Abby (red shepherd) and Audrey (white shepherd)

We also got to witness the Twelve Days of Christmas in full motion. Ask me for the video if you want to see it... it was about 4 minutes long and I am having a hard time loading it here :)

Gingerbread House Extravaganza

2009-12-11T23:49:00.000-08:00

We had a big Gingerbread House Decorating Day after school today! This activity is one of the newer traditions that we have adopted the last couple of years :) Because of time, I had the houses "built" while the kids were in school. So... after the kids got home and thoroughly scrubbed their hands and finger nails under hot soapy water for two full minutes, the fun began :)

The kids worked so hard to make their creations!!! The boys made some sort of gingerbread battle ground with fighter jets and soldiers and other "amazing" stuff :) Abby, on the other hand, made Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus -- Peace on Earth. Hmmm...

Isaac's battle fort

Mary (in red), Joseph (in green) and Baby Jesus (in the manger)!

TADA... the finished products! Much better than a kit... don't you think??? :)

Random footage of the Gingerbread House decorating process, followed by the kids' "show and tell" of their creations:

Bible Awards, Spelling Bee, and Thanksgiving Feasts

2009-11-19T21:49:00.001-08:00

This week was full of kid stuff :)

Spiritual: Being the end of the first quarter of school, all three of my kids were awarded with Bible Awards. I love that my kids attend a Christian school and that Bible is a part of their regular curriculum. Can't beat "hiding God's Word in their hearts"! I pray that as they study God Word and commit different verses into their memory banks, they would gain the knowledge needed to have wisdom.

Academic: On Tuesday, Isaac represented his 4th grade class in the School Spelling Bee. On Wednesday, Abby represented her 1st grade class in the Bee. I am thankful for the skills that they are learning in school and that they are doing so well! Abby is the alternate and Isaac is the second alternate to the District Spelling Bee for their grades, in January. I pray that they will continue to develop good study skills and work hard in everything... as unto the Lord!

Abby, next to Emily & Audrey... waiting their turn to spell :)

Isaac... calm, cool, and collected!

Social: Wednesday and Thursday, each of the three classes celebrated Thanksgiving! It is fun for me to see how they interact with their friends in non-structured settings. I pray that Isaac, Seth, and Abby will continue to exercise wisdom in choosing good friends. May they always consider others as more important than themselves... even at play :)

Cute little Indian girls and sweet little Pilgrim girls :)

Just a quick glimpse of the School Spelling Bee... this was the practice round. We are not allowed to take pictures or videos for the real thing :)

On the way to school...

2009-09-21T09:53:00.000-07:00

We have a dear friend that owns a company named Temp Power Systems. Their primary business is supplying temporary electrical power to construction sites and such.

This morning, Matthew asked me to stop by Temp Power to pick up something for him:

Matthew (called out to me as we were pulling out) : Don't forget to stop by Temp Power...

Seth : What's Temp Power, Mom?

Me : It's the place where Mr. Martin works...

Abby : Oh, I thought it was the tempting place. You know, where you get tempted by things...

Oh dear... where did that crazy girl think Matthew was sending me???

First Day of School

2009-09-08T13:02:00.000-07:00

I LOVE First Day of School!

As a kid, I loved the new books, new clothes, new classroom, new teacher, and all the new and old friends!!! As a Mom, the first day of school is a little bittersweet. While I still love the new books, the fresh uniforms, the new teachers, the friends, the "hot lunches"... it also signifies another milestone, another grade, and essentially, another year closer to when the kids are grown and out of my care. I can't believe that Isaac is in 4th grade this year (headed to Sacramento this Spring), Seth is in 2nd grade (pretty much self sufficient in all aspects of school - including packing a healthy lunch!), and Abby is in 1st grade (in school until 3 like the boys)!!! Makes me a bit teary eyed watching them march off with full confidence -- happy and adjusted, ready to take on all that God has to offer them this year.

Peeking into Seth's class...

Isaac's class...

and Abby's class.

Abby's 2 Emily friends :)

Oh... don't get me wrong! I am so very excited for this stage of my life :) I am thankful that the kids are well taken care of for a large portion of the day! I am excited to be able to work on long overdue projects around the house and serve and minister in areas that God has laid on my heart without having to consider childcare needs or different pick-up schedule!!! I'm grateful for routine and order. I am excited to start our "new morning schedule", which includes eating breakfast together as a family and reading a Proverb! I am thrilled to see where God take each one of us as we work hard to "not waste time"!

Isaac, Seth and Abby, I pray that you will bring joy to your teachers' hearts, make life-long God-fearing friends, and be a bright light that shines for Jesus in each one of your classrooms! I pray that you will learn to love God and love others more deeply this year, even as you learn to work hard academically and socially! May you each seek to excel in the way that God has gifted you. May He challenge you as you grow in stature and in wisdom. I love you and look forward to working in your classrooms and getting to know your friends :)

See you in class :)

Look Ma... no tooth!!!

2009-08-31T15:57:00.000-07:00

Seth lost his first front tooth this afternoon! They are all growing up so quickly, aren't they?!? I still remember when that tooth came in a little less than 7 years ago... now he is getting ready to start 2nd grade in just a few days!

A Head of Lettuce...

2009-08-15T13:40:00.000-07:00

While we were shopping for some fruits and vegetables, I muttered to myself, "I need to get a head of lettuce."

Overhearing me, Seth asked, "do they sell bodies of lettuce??? If that is a head, what did they do to the ears and nose and hair and..."

Hmmm... he IS my special child :)

Home Depot

2009-08-12T21:04:00.000-07:00

We've been working hard to get my parents' house in Irvine back on the market for lease for the last 10 days. I've had all sorts of people doing everything under the sun in the house last week and the beginning of this week. My kids have been such troopers in helping with scrubbing tile grouts, sweeping, washing down cupboards, etc. and not complaining (too much) about having to be at the Irvine house (again!!!). Through it all, we've been making our (almost) daily trips to Home Depot for one thing or another (both my dad and Matthew's dad would be proud :)). So... today, after our visit, Abby said to me:

"Mommy, I think Home Depot has everything I need to live when I am a grown up."

"How's that?" I asked.

"Well, aside from food and stuff, it has wood, tools and nails to build a house, sink and toilets for the bathroom... I guess I would go to Tall Mouse too, so that I can get fabric to make my own clothes."

Wow... I think my daughter will be quite the Proverbs 31 woman when she grows up :)

Ahhhh.... Almanor!

2009-08-09T01:30:00.000-07:00

Look at Abby's cute little filthy feet... camping at it's finest :)

We were on our annual camping trip the last week of July at Lake Almanor, aka, Heaven on Earth. It was WONDERFUL!!! We had the best time :)

Heading out... sweet dreams, Little Ones... ummm, are you all buckled in???

We left Friday evening, drove up to Santa Nella, slept for a few hours, and continued our trek up to Lake Almanor. We always pray and hope our hardest for a waterfront site, but since we were arriving on Saturday, Matthew (very wise husband that he is...) had prepared me to be unsettled for the first 48 hours (because the weekend campers will not have left yet, and the camp ground will most likely be full and we would not only NOT have an ideal site, we may have to camp off-site down the street a ways away from where we usually camp). Being tent campers, I was ready for the challenge, but not really looking forward to moving sites and cutting into our precious vacation time. Apparently, God was pleased with my heart attitude (?!?) and blessed us (with a little help from Matthew's cousins) with THE BEST SITE EVER!!! We were not only waterfront, we were able to beach the boat right in front of our site!!! On top of that, because this fabulous site was a double site (or "family site"), we were able to share with Rebekah and Bethany + kids when they came up!!! Everyone got to hang out and relax in our site, especially all the cousins (even the Baby Justin and Baby Luke!)... it really was just perfect!

This is what we call "Prime Real Estate"!!!

All throughout the week, we made forts on the beach, water skied, splashed in the water, went on bike rides, read our books, played board games, lay in the hammock, barbecued yummy things, zip lined (thanks, Andrew & Melissa!), caught frogs, got whip around on a Sea Biscuit, played baseball and just enjoyed family and cousins :)

Abby is "teaching" Joy (the bear) how to write his ABC's :)

Ahhh... this is what I'm talking about...

Breakfast at Prattville - hot cocoa is soooo delicious :)

Really didn't plan for Abby's suit to match the umbrella...

The kids were all entertaining themselves in catching these teeny tiny frogs before dinner on the beach. I think the final count was something like 49 for the older cousins and 7 for Abby and Maddie. When it was "release time", after dinner, Andrew asked Daniel if he would be willing to have all the frogs dumped on him, if he got a dollar for it, and this is what followed:

Uncle Norman, thank you for letting us use your Sea Biscuit! We had such a fun time on it! Andrew and Melissa took their kids and my kids out one afternoon, and my kids were hooked :) Matthew and I took them out one more afternoon later in the week:

This sign means that they are "OK" :)

This was Matthew's special sign meaning, "Is that all you've got?!?"

We have 2 new real life skiers this year:

Isaac was skiing last year, but still needed help getting the skies on in the water. But this year, not only was he able to manage getting his own skies on, he was working hard at trying to get up on a single ski! I think if we had one more day, he would be up and skiing all around the lake on one :) Great job, Isaac!

Seth was up and at 'em after the first day :) He skis much like how he lives life -- to the fullest!!! After the first couple times getting up on his own, he was trying to cross the wake... and almost succeeded!!! Good for you, little buddy!!!

Abby tried skiing on her own too, but in her own words, "I skiied on my face!" She was so focused on not letting go of the rope, that even when her skis fell off, she was still holding on! Good try, baby! I'm proud of you for being so brave and trying to ski! We'll try again next year :) It was fun skiing on Daddy's feet, wasn't it?!? I will try to drive the boat "not so exciting" next year!!!

For a year that no one expect us and Mom & Dad were planning on going to Almanor, we had everyone there (except Kevan :( We missed you, Uncle Kevan!!! My kids said that if Uncle Kevan was there, Pizza Night would not have been vetoed!)! We even got to take our "traditional cousin picture" :)

ALL 13 PRESENT!!!

I am so blessed to have married into this great tradition :) I know that Isaac, Seth and Abby already LOVE this place and the whole camping experience. I am thankful that they will have great childhood memories of these amazing summers at Almanor!!!

Until next year...

Foot Message and Fried Tarantulas

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

Temple in Angkor

On the heels of Almanor, Matthew left for a missions trip to Cambodia this Wednesday night (well... officially Thursday, their plan took off at 1:50am).

After about a 24 travel day - including dodging a typhoon in Taiwan (their layover) - they arrived in Cambodia safe and sound.

For the last couple of days, they've been in Siem Reap. Yesterday, they toured some ancient temple in Ankor, snacked on some fried tarantulas and had a foot message.

Cambodian foot message -- yes, that IS a pool of hundreds of tiny fish!!!

Oh boy... my very "white" husband is having quite the cultural experience...

For Matthew's Sake...

2009-06-14T19:44:00.001-07:00

This weekend was Isaac's last "baseball event" for the season :) Matthew is at the Resolved Conference in Palm Springs and missed all that fun :)

So... at your request, Babe, I am attempting to upload some clips of the closing ceremony and party for you to enjoy. If this doesn't work, you will just have to wait until you get home tomorrow night:

This one is the President of West Yorba Linda Little League presenting the Academic All-Stars recognition to the boys that achieved a GPA of 3.0 and above. Of the boys that were recognized for their hard work in school, the top 12 boys (with the highest GPAs) received a plaque. Yes... I am proud of Isaac's 4.0 :)

This is a clip of the Team Party. Coach Rob, the team manager, is the one speaking. He was very proud of the boys! What a great way to end the great season!!!

I will blog soon... promise :) I actually have some entries done. I've just been too tired to stay up to get the pictures uploaded...

Psalm 100

2009-05-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

Seth was recently chosen as the class representative for the District ACSI Speech Meet. He has been working hard for the last month or so to make sure that he does not disappoint his teacher and classmates :)

On the day of the Speech Meet, due to space limitations, only one parent was allowed to be with the child. Matthew really wanted to be in the room for Seth's presentation, so, I let him (so gracious of me, I know :)). Matthew was leaving to go up to Northern California for the 200 mile relay (another story... ) and had to leave by 10:30am, so we drove separate cars. Because of the order of the program, Matthew stretched his time to almost 11... just for Seth (while I hovered outside the door, peeking in the window... which, I'm sure, was NOT ALLOWED). Right before Seth's turn, the ladies that were monitoring "traffic flow" of the Speech Meet gave me the go ahead -- both Matthew and I were able to hear Seth's speech!!! What a treat :)

All in all, he received a BLUE RIBBON for his diligent work! Super job, Seth!!! We are so proud of you!

"The Orphans"

2009-04-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

This morning, Abby was playing quietly in her room before heading out to school. Matthew popped in to say hello:

Matthew: Good morning, Abby! Whatcha doing?

Abby: Hi, Daddy! I'm playing with my friends (aka - stuff animals).

Matthew: Oh... you have a lot of friends. Do you know all their names?

Abby: No... I haven't named them all, but they all have family names. Here is the Bear family, the Doggie family, the Bunny family... and the Orphans.

Matthew: Ummm (stifling a laugh), that's good Abby...

No, Seth didn't get to wrestle a pig (DR Trip - Part 2)

2009-04-27T02:17:00.000-07:00

I know that my children would be ever so disappointed if I didn't post the pictures of all the random animals (most were just wondering around different properties) that we encountered through out our trip to the Dominican... so, here they are :)

Aunt Rebekah found Seth a BIG PIG :)

No, you may not take the puppy home...

Cool lizards! Abby caught a teeny tiny one (about the size of 1/2 a pinkie finger). He was super fast!!!

In honor of Melissa (both Sister and Cousin), I took some pictures of the beautiful flowers of the land :)

How wonderfully creative is our great Creator! I love all the "non-native" animals and critters we found and all the brilliant colors in the vegetations!!!

Sweet water...

2009-04-26T14:49:00.000-07:00

Much too often, especially as a mom, I struggle with anger. I feel anger and frustration rise up in me as I enter the kids' room full of "stuff" that has been carelessly strewned about, or as I walk into the freshly scrubbed and polished bathroom (but 5 minutes ago) soaking wet with mushy toilet paper (not usually used... as far as I can tell) and the mirrors smeared with toothpaste or something worse... Much too often, my children will incur the wrath of their mother and I WILL want them to PAY for how they have offended ME!!!

Today, Pastor Mike preached on anger and how one's words are a reflection of one's heart. It was an excellent sermon! Very practical for me :) If you would like to hear it, you can find it at www.graceorange.org, under Audio Recordings. He quoted a beautiful quote from Amy Carmichael:

"For a cup brimful of sweet water cannot spill even one drop of bitter water, however suddenly jolted..."

Lord... may you fill my heart with Biblical "sweet water", so that even when life (or my children :)) hits me in the face, I will spill out sweet and not bitter!