August 25, 2010 · 6:00 am

Necessary Supplies.

After all that talk yesterday about feeding my spirit, so my flesh will starve, I decided to read the entire New Testament again. 

I lie.  You see what happens when you don’t soak up God’s word?  You lie.  Actually, I fed my flesh a little with this new, fun creature. 

I love my husband.  Not because he gave me this iPad, which he did.  But, because he also e-mails me pics like this:

He had a few mosquito bites.  He sent me this pic of his “supplies.”  I’m just glad he didn’t go overboard.   And, I actually do understand the necessity of something such as Lifesavers Gummies. 

Anyhoo.  I actually waited until the littlest fellow went to bed, so I could give my anniversary gift my full attention.  Of course, when you are a mother of little people, it’s rare that anything ever gets your full attention.  And, my oldest two made sure it didn’t.  They both felt it was unfair that mommy got an iPad and they didn’t. 

Cry me a river. 

Well, John Henry nearly did.  On top of the fact that he doesn’t own an iPad, his sister got to sleep with me, and he didn’t.  And, the conversation that ensued is one that he will never, ever forget.  And, neither will I. 

Come back tomorrow for that one.

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August 24, 2010 · 5:00 am

My Flesh Ain’t Starvin’.

Not like it really should.  Last night, I thought about the old saying, “Feed your spirit, and your flesh will starve.”  It boils down to issues of self-control and discipline.  I do okay a lot of the time.  But, not all of the time.

No, no.  Not all.  What am I supposed to be, a saint? 

Ahem.

I will admit that one of the reasons I listen to Christian music more than any other type of music is because it sets my mind on good things.  I find myself in an attitude of worship during those times.  It not only brings awareness to who God is, but it inspires me to want to be a better person.  It’s not that I don’t like a little of the other every now and again.  I do.  And, I play it.  Heavens, why else does my daughter ask her Aunt Jenny if she has any “Shot to the Heart” in her car?  Well, actually, that’s because of her Nan.  (Thanks, Mom.)

I just know me.  And, I know that certain types of music feed my spirit.  And, others don’t.  Period.

Then, there is the Word.  In preparation for dad’s upcoming series on the bible and such….I read this scripture:

“….People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”  Matthew 4:4

Every word?  EVERY word?  Mercy, Pete.  I just like readin’ my favorite words.  Lord knows, I skip Leviticus every time I see the phrase “animal’s blood” show up.  That’s just gross.

But, this is not my point.

What is my point?

Oh, yeah.  I can quote scripture.  Impressed?  Sure you are.  The SAME scriptures over and over.  I don’t branch out there much. 

But, I am.  Because, y’all, my flesh wants a lot of things.  Like window treatments, a MacBook, a new pair of jeans….

Of course, those things are from the Lord.  Let’s think of better examples. 

My flesh can be envious.  It can be impatient.  I can be downright ugly.  So, I think David may have been onto something when he said, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you,” in Psalm 119. 

I’m gonna feed my spirit more.  Except Leviticus….I stand my ground on Leviticus. 

And, starve that flesh of mine.

Whew.

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August 19, 2010 · 7:06 am

Am I A Black Person?

John Henry checked out a book from the library called “Ron’s Big Mission.”   Before he began to read the book aloud to me, I was not quite prepared to have a discussion on America’s past history of segregation.  But, it was time.  I am sure.

The book is based on the true story of Ron McNair who, as a child, was an avid reader and loved to read books about airplanes.  Growing up in South Carolina in the 50’s and 60’s was not exactly easy for any black child.  Especially a black boy who simply wanted to check out books from his local whites only public library. 

Until one day, Ron decided he wasn’t leaving the library until he was a card holder.  His mother was called, police officers showed up, and Ron stood his ground still.  As a result, Ron changed a piece of history and became the first black person to check out books from that library.

Talk about a lion chaser.

John Henry, of course, asked a lot of questions.  A lot of surprising questions.

“Am I a black person?” he asked. 

“No, baby, you are a white person.”

At this point in the conversation, I realized he had never identified people belonging to different races.  So, I asked him what he thought when he saw someone with dark skin. 

“I just thought their skin was darker.  That is all.  I kind of have dark skin, so I am really kind of white and black.”  He told me. 

“Sure.  You are white and black,” I assured him. 

I was not about to disappoint him.  I taught him about the days of segregation.  I explained where we were as a nation during those times and where we are now.  Honestly, it was a difficult, but necessary conversation. 

We then read a little more on the life of Ron McNair.  This 9-year old hero grew up to be an even greater American hero.  This little boy who loved airplanes became a pilot.  And, on January 28, 1986, he lost his life as an astronaut during the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger.

I hope John Henry not only learned something about the significance of civil rights.  I also hope he learned about what it means to stand up for something he believes in.  And, what it really means to be a lion chaser.


Ron McNair
October 21, 1950 – January 28, 1986

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August 18, 2010 · 7:06 am

It Takes A Village.

Why do I think about how much I love my children when they’re in bed asleep more than I do when they are awake and running amuck?  Well, because they are running amuck, I suppose.  After I put the three little people to bed last night, dad and I discussed in length about chasing after God through worship, which has nothing to do with this post, really.  So, AFTER dad and I had our little Jesus talk, he went home, and I went to bed and thought about what I’m doing to fulfill my mission for my family:  raising my children to be fully devoted followers of Christ.  I try to be very intentional in talking with my children about who God is in their life.  They ask a lot of questions now about the things of God. 

Especially, Anna.  Of course, she asks a lot of questions about everything and is generally disappointed in my lack of knowledge on the snake species.  She has also requested a “snake party” for her birthday.  John Henry told her if she has snakes at her party, then he isn’t coming.  She responded with, “Well, I won’t invite you, then.”  Fair enough.  She’s also asked for camouflage apparel for deer hunting season.  The vogue in me shouts, “Stop this madness!”  I blame Kris.  He is not exactly burning holes on the fashion runways. 

Questions.  So, Anna asked, “Okay, there is the Holy Spirit….and who are the other two?”  I’ve decided to let dad explain the trinity to her.  Because, I failed miserably in trying to explain it to my husband. 

I look to other lovers of Jesus to partner with me in raising my children to become devoted followers of Christ.  And, I look to Mrs. Darlene, her Sunday School teacher, to work out the kinks in her response to learning that Esther was a queen:  “I don’t like princesses.  Not Ariel.  Not any of them.” 

This is why the body of Christ is so important.  I really wouldn’t want to do life without them.  And, fulfilling my family mission would be a lot harder to do alone.  So, I work hard to make sure my kids don’t miss a Sunday at church.  And, I work hard to make sure I don’t miss out on life experiences to disciple them. 

It takes a village, people.

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August 16, 2010 · 6:00 am

Seven!

Seven of the Gazillion Reasons Kris Takle Is Fun to Love

ONE – He always tells me when he falls, almost falls, or bumps his head, because he knows I’ll laugh until I cry. 

TWO – He encourages me.  He makes me feel like a good writer, a good mother, a good wife, a good friend.  And his encouragement makes me want to be better at those things.

THREE – He responds with a “What can I do to make this better?” whenever I share something that is bothering me.  He is quite the great responder guy.

FOUR – He is a fierce protector.  Don’t mess with me yo, ‘cuz my man will break you.  (I don’t watch Jersey Shore, although this one just made me sound like I do.)

FIVE – His Taklisms are priceless.  Here are a few:

                Take the world by the horns.
                I’m as happy as a kite.  (He defends this one by asking if I’ve ever seen a 
                   sad kite.)
                I haven’t been feeling on top of the weather, (as opposed to being under
                  the weather.)

Y’all have no idea how I could on and on with these.  NO.  IDEA.

SIX – Whenever he plays with our children, he is louder than they are.  He makes this house fun.  Of course, my quick humor makes it pretty dang fun, too.  Just thought I’d prop myself up on that one.  Because FUN is my middle name. 

It’s not really.  Dusty Fun would have sounded odd.

SEVEN  – He never flies a trip where he doesn’t send me a text message that looks like this: 

I miss you 😦

I miss YOU, Kris Takle.  I wish you were here to celebrate with me, but you are out providing for our family, ‘cause momma’s gotta eat. 

You bless me daily.  And, I love you even more today than I did seven years ago. 

Happy Anniversary.  My world is sweeter because of you.

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August 13, 2010 · 8:25 am

My Mini Me.

She was so excited when her Far-Far (Kris’ dad) gave her this bathrobe.  And, for those wondering, Far Far is Norwegian for “father’s father.”  My kids pronounce it Fa-Fa.  It works for us. 

She was excited, because she had a robe to put on after she showers just like me.  And, she wants me to wrap her hair in a towel.  Just like I do. 

She’ll put on her Converse sneakers and then ask me to wear mine. 

She will play with my jewelry and ask, “Mom, can I have these when I am bigger?” 

She wants to grow out her bangs and part her hair just like mine.

She loves my things.  She loves it when we are alike. 

She watches me, and she wants to be like me.  Of course, she is still very much one unique Anna Takle.

I want her to see fully who I am.  Flaws and all.  I want her to see that when I struggle with insecurity, I find my security in Christ.  I want her to see that when I mess up big and small, I pray to a God of mercy who is quick to forgive.  I want her to see that when I begin to worry, I stand on what God has already promised me in His word.  I want her to see that when I am in need, I call on friends who love Christ as much as I do. 

Chances are…

If she watches me build my life on these things, then she will do just the same. 

So, it’s good for me to ask myself:   What is she seeing when she watches me?

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August 12, 2010 · 5:00 am

Don’t Close Up Shop.

I can let life swallow me up.  I can.  I can allow the activities and antics of three children cause me to close up shop on sharing my gifts with others.  Serving others.  Because, it seems like too much at that moment.

But, it’s not always too much.  It’s not usually as stressful as we make it out to be.  It’s just our response to those busy moments that mess with our head.  Okay, maybe it’s just my head.  Maybe, it’s just me? 

I almost let one of those moments make me close up shop yesterday afternoon.  My sweet husband had a dinner meeting with airplane-ish type folk.  I had household obligations, two children with obligations, and an infant who, well, was only obligated to let me know when he was hungry.  And, he was.  Of course, he was.   Have you seen him?  Only the cutest chunk of love in the history of chunks of love. 

You see?  I do not lie, friends.

It would have been easier to let these things – life things – consume me.  Stay home.  Pretend there was nothing or no one else besides myself and my three little people.  It really would have.  But, one thing I’ve learned (and my parents have taught me) in my thirty-five plus years on planet earth is this:

My life will be more blessed when I live beyond myself. 

Beyond me.  Beyond my kids’ homework and schedules.  Beyond the constant needs of an infant.  Beyond making sure I’ve emptied the dishwasher.  Beyond getting my hair ministered to – which by the power of the Holy Spirit, I was able to fit that in.  Can I get an amen on coverin’ them roots? 

I was responsible for teaching the youth last night.  And, for some dadgum reason, I can’t say “youth” without thinking of My Cousin Vinny.  You know the line.  “Your honor, two utes.”  I seriously can’t.  I drive myself crazy sayin’ it.  ANY. HOW.

By choosing to overcome any stress that parenting, sans my awesome husband, brings, I used one of my gifts.  More than that, I just served.  And, instead of staying home, putting my children to bed, and contemplating how hectic my day was….

I put my children to bed, and then I went to bed fulfilled.  Content.  Happy.  Blessed.

I think that’s what Paul meant in Acts 20 when he said, “it’s more blessed to give than to receive.” 

But, don’t get me wrong.  If any of y’all wanna come keep three little people and send me to the spa, I will not make you withhold those good gifts.  You know.  Since that would bless y’all and all.

Ahem.

I mean, Amen.

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August 10, 2010 · 5:00 am

Really. Does This Post Warrant A Title?

Whenever I wake up and say, “Today is the day I begin to lose the rest of my baby weight,” I am certain to grab two handfuls of M&M’s right before bedtime.  And, I probably forgot about my proclamation by lunch time, too.  It’s not even that I struggle with the temptation of certain foods.  I JUST SIMPLY FORGET. 

I blame the fact that I am busier than ever.  Or, I blame Kris.  Because, surely, it is his fault for not taking responsibility for my lack of motivation or forgetfulness.  

And, I’m behind on my television viewing, AND my toes and hair are clearly in need of ministry.  It’s for these reasons I am aware that I need to re-prioritize my life.  I felt especially beautiful when my husband saw me yesterday, post shower, wearing my tennis shoes with my bath wrap.  I don’t know.  Tennis shoes just felt like the first natural step in the getting dressed process.  So, imagine my confusion when Kris inquired, “Would you like for me to take a picture of you?” 

I’m sure Kris’ exposure to my wrap/tennis shoes pairing only made his odd day odder.  He had just returned from a tiny, little town who apparently sells the cheapest cattle feed this side of the….I don’t know what this side of.  His feed wasn’t ready when he arrived, so the store owner suggested he go get himself “the finest breakfast in town.” 

Kris’ recap of his breakfast:  “There were no biscuits.  There wasn’t anything really.  No tables or chairs.  Only a piece of sausage and bacon served on a paper towel.  Then, there was the guy in the corner staring at me with one eye, while his other eye looked in the opposite direction.”

The store owner asked him how his breakfast was.  Kris commented on the absence of tables and chairs.  “Oh, that’s so they don’t have to get inspected.”

I do not lie.  And, neither does Kris. 

I encouraged Kris that, at least, he was able to skip out on the carbohydrates.  And, at least, I didn’t have on knee socks with my tennis shoes. 

You see?  There is always a bright side.

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August 9, 2010 · 5:00 am

It’s For Them, Too.

Jett looks like he is wondering what kind of family he’s been placed into. 

A fun one.

Seriously. 

We are all pretty hysterical.  Or, at least, that’s the world we choose to believe we live in.

I love these children.  “Well of course, you do.  You’re their mother!”  I worry about these children.  I question my parenting.  I get on my knees and seek God for their lives.  I remind myself that if I could meet their every need, they wouldn’t need a Savior. 

But, when I read scripture, I honestly forget about it applying to my children’s lives.  Is that crazy or what?

“I will never leave you or forsake you…”  (Heb. 13:5) That’s for my kids.

“I will supply your every need….” (Phil.4:19)  That’s for them, too.

“My help comes from the Lord…” (Psalm 121.2)  For them.

“You are my Portion….” (Psalm 119) Forrrrr them.

I could go on and on.  And on.  I can’t meet their every need.  But God can.  And, He wants to. 

But, I can teach them to seek first His Kingdom, so all of those things can be given to them.  I can teach them to put on the full of armor of God so they can stand up to anything.  I can teach them to chase after God’s will more than their own.  I can teach them to love God with all of their heart, soul, mind, and strength.

It’s in HIM and through HIM that they will have EVERYTHING they need.  They will never lack.  Because, THEY serve the Creator of the universe.

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August 6, 2010 · 5:00 am

Conversations with Anna.

Let’s keep the next few Fridays a little light-hearted, shall we?  We shall, we shall.  With a Friday title such as “Conversations with Anna”, I don’t think we have a choice really.  I journaled many conversations and situations with the one and only Anna Takle while on my blogging hiatus.  I just hated for it not to be penned permanently.

We’ll call this conversation “Conversation Obama.”  Why do I feel like I’ve lost readers already?

Anyhoo.

We fly a lot. I am married to a pilot, after all.  I’ve pretty much mastered the art of occupying my children while in flight with books, games, activities and such.  Well, mastered up until Anna breaks out into…being Anna. 

Scene:  John Henry is drawing a picture of a man.

John Henry:  “It’s a president.  I’ll give you a hint.  He’s on the quarter.”

Anna:  “George Washington!”

John Henry:  “Yes!”

Anna:  “Wait.  But, George Washington has fluffy hair.  This man does not have fluffy hair.”

***INSERT MOM TRYING TO CAPITALIZE ON AN EDUCATIONAL MOMENT***

Me:  “Okay kids, who is on the penny?”

Anna:  “Obama!!!”

Yes, we still have a little way to go on learning our country’s presidents.  But, she did know that Lincoln was our sixteenth president.  And, well, that is something. 

Hail to the Chief.

And, Happy Birthday to my momma.  She’s never been a president.  But she loves me and keeps ALL of my youngins.  So, she wins.

Love you @bcgoss.

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