Beyond Bringing Up Boys

It's so dry in Georgia that the Baptists are starting to baptize by sprinkling; the Methodists are using wet wipes, the Presbyterians are giving out rain checks, and the Catholics are praying for the wine to turn back into water. --source unknown

I tend to frequent offices that are usually occupied by folks over 65 -- urologist, a gastroenterologist—or any other “ist” who finds a way to investigate inside the human body. (Compliments of Seth’s birth). While I waited today, Seth spotted another “grandma” to whom he profusely declared his love while also charming other waiting patients. Seth was equally delightful when I consulted with the doctor, who determined that the acute abdominal pain that visits me on occasion is actually small bowel obstructions. “He must be worth all of this, isn’t he?” She asked. I’m pain free (for) now and Seth was charming, so of course I answered in the affirmative. But the truth is that even when I am overwhelmed with pain, I still wouldn’t trade this precious little boy –when he is delightful or even when is naughty --for a healthy body. I was reminded of Romans 5:7-9. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrat...

I got a laugh out of this sign posted beneath the mistletoe at Stone Mountain! I think if you click on the picture it will enlarge so it is readable. Enjoy!

In a “Happy Holidays” culture, it was such a surprise to hear The Christmas Story in a public entertainment venue at Stone Mountain Park on Saturday night. David and I kept looking at each other incredulously. When the speaker concluded with the gift of salvation through God’s son, and said, What do you think about that?” My response was spontaneous to be certain! I stood to my feet and shouted, “Yaahooo!” It’s just not safe to take me out anymore!

Described by her husband, Billy Graham, as the “greatest Christian I‘ve ever known,” I’ve always been intrigued by the life of Ruth Bell Graham. So I was delighted when my mom called to tell me that they are offering her book, Letters from Ruth’s Attic , for free here at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Website. I'd love to hear from you if you have read this book.

I officially joined the Balty family 15 1/2 years ago. I am grateful that we lived just a couple of miles from David’s parents the first year we were married. We ate Sunday lunch with them almost every week and often would be back there for a snack after church on Sunday night. It gave me an opportunity to get to know them. I have been blessed immeasurably. David’s mom, Glenda, has a birthday tomorrow. For many special occasions of our lives, she has been with us. We can’t be there but I wish we could –especially this year. Glenda was diagnosed with ovarian cancer this week. I ask that as you read this blog that you would ask God to give her a special day tomorrow and an extra measure of grace to face the challenges ahead.

It’s certainly no surprise to me that my boys have selective senses. As I write, I am being entertained by a recorder and guitar – both being played at top speed and pitch. So I am certain they cannot hear. Neither can they see toys that could cause the most agile to stumble and fall. In retrospect, I should have known that when two senses are lost, a third might be heightened. But I didn’t and it cost me. Dearly. I love chocolate peanut butter cups. David bought a pack for me last week, and I had them securely hidden in the bottom of my purse. Until last night. With the radio blaring and in the pitch darkness of the van, I retrieved them, thinking that with just Seth and I, I wouldn’t need to share…until I heard a small voice from the back call out sweetly, “Mommy, can I have one, please?”