http://www.politicsdaily.com/2010/05/06/how-the-pill-liberated-my-mother-and-me/?icid=mainwelcomedl8link3http://www.politicsdaily.com/2010/05/06/how-the-pill-liberated-my-mother-and-me/

Happy Mother's Day, Mom! Thanks for helping me NOT have kids! Thanks for showing me that I can be "liberated" by the lack of children. Thanks for helping me understand that the choice to kill off my children is even better than being a mom. Oh, and thanks for making sure I know that I'm a "mistake"...or "a planned accident".

This would be a really disgusting joke. The scary thing is, she's not even kidding.

Sometimes my brother puts things into perspective better than I can hope to. "That's like... You tried to kill me with a gun because you didn't want more kids, so now I'm pro-gun!"

We celebrate the lack of children. We celebrate the ability to prevent them. And we celebrate the fact that we can kill them before they are safely born.

This Sunday let's celebrate children, and pray for more of them. Let's celebrate the ability to be fruitful and bear many children. And for those who can't, let's thank God for the gift of adoption. Let's celebrate the fact that God knew these blessings before He formed them in the womb.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom. Thanks for helping me love children and greatly desire the role of mother. Thanks for showing me that God gives His people great joy through the blessing of children. Thanks for helping me understand that killing a child is never the right choice and that nothing can compare to the love a mother has for her child. And thank you for always letting me know that you love and appreciate me and that you see me as a gift from God, and that I am not a mistake- or even a planned accident.

Happy Mother's Day. Celebrate motherhood, celebrate children, celebrate life.

Tax Day TEA Party 2010

An Assignment For YOU

One Christian's Response to the passivism vs. activism debate:

More than anything in this post I am milling my own thoughts around because of recent events that have come to pass- very hurtful events. This post has been in the making for a while, and has been in several different forms. So please bear with me as I share my thoughts on this issue, which really should not be an issue at all.

Lately I have become more and more politically active. Do not ask me how that happened. Sometimes you pick up what is laid before you, look back, and wonder how it came to be. As I have become more involved in politics, I have become increasingly aware of the fact that from the beginning of man there has been a debate about whether or not Christians should concern themselves with politics. The main premise of the passivist side (to whatever degree the passivism may be) seems to be that our focus needs to be on telling other about Jesus instead of getting caught up in the things of this world (i.e. politics). While I have no desire to prove to anyone that I am in fact evangelistic, or to make a list of things I do out of love for my church (because that would seem silly and prideful), I do wish to make a response to those who may think the ministry of political action is somehow less holy than another ministry.

First let me state that never would I think that since I'm politically active, my ministry is more important than someone else's. However, I do believe that in a changing world we are going to see many of God's people rise up to take on this ministry as the need for it is becoming incredibly evident. So I believe it's time for all Christians to begin encouraging the brethren who take up this fight rather than treating them as if they are less holy.

I believe evangelism is accomplished in all areas of life. Yes, even in politics. I believe that the political arena is a very dark place in our world today. I have no fear of that dark place because I know that God is with me and will never forsake me. I also have my buff-intimidating-if-needed-big-little brother, my strong protector-dad, and the prayers and guidance of my mom, sister and loving church family. These people love me and encourage me in my daily work as I try to encourage them in theirs- whatever it may be.

My heart aches terribly when I am told by a few (and only a few) that I should not be involved in politics. If I am to "only preach Jesus" then why does my mom tell me with such heart ache, pain, and tears about her years in a private Christian college where many, many of her friends had abortions- even in their freshman year? I can't tell you how much this saddens me. Why? Because these young women already knew Jesus! But did they understand abortion? Was there a law protecting their babies? No and no. These young women were saved already, but did that help their unborn children?

I hope that if you know me at all you know that I love the unborn and that I have a passion to rescue them from being led to the slaughter. You have probably heard from me before that in a political society it is going to take politics to end abortion. And let me be very, very clear. I have to go the whole way with this. If I believe that abortion is the murder of the most innocent and vulnerable (and I do), then I will do what needs to be done to stop it from happening. I do not want to get to Heaven and see the millions of babies who didn't have a chance at life if I cannot honestly say to them, "I fought for you. I gave 100%." It is not enough for me to tell them that I prayed and went on with my life.

Do you see how my faith and my politics go hand in hand? And friends, we do live in this world. We can't get away from that fact as much as we might try to do so. So we can either try to get away from it without succeeding, or we can do what we can to make this world a better place for future generations. Do you want your children and their children to have the opportunity to seek and save the lost without becoming martyrs? Do something about that today. And if you won't, stop putting down the people who will.

For anyone who would tell me to stay out of politics, let me ask: What would you say to Daniel? How about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego? And Paul? And what would you say to the Israelites as they made their way out of Egypt? Would you tell them to stop? How about asking a homeschool mother and father in the late 1970s if they should be involved in politics.

As a young woman I have no desire to pursue a career. I believe the highest calling I someday might have would be that of a wife and mother. If and when God is to bring a husband into my life, I will be ready to be a full time wife and hopefully mother as well. But in the meantime I believe God has given me time to grow, work and save money, learn, and become involved in my church and community in ways that I may not be able to later. Given my intense desire to help the unborn, I have found myself in surprisingly interesting situations lately. My life has taken many very exciting turns, and God has opened unbelievable doors for me. I am so thankful and excited. All the glory only to God. I intend to take advantage of all of these opportunities and I know so many brethren are completely supportive of me in these endeavors. Thank you so much. Thank you to those of you who have discussed this very topic with me and encouraged me- you know who you are. I am hurt by a few and I hope that those who would condemn my ministry (politics is actually one of many) would realize that evangelism comes in many forms. Cooking for potluck, cooking for neighbors, anonymously donating to causes, driving widows around, caring for children, teaching, cleaning the church building, personal Bible studies with others, becoming a Godly politician, and thousands more (I'm sure you can add to the list with your unique talents, blessings and abilities). Please, let's encourage one another, not treat some ministries as if they are less worthy.

If you managed to get this far, which I doubt, please please please do not respond by quoting a scripture that you believe proves politics and evangelism are mutually exclusive. And do not respond by asking me how many people I've converted today. I do have an assignment for you though. Two simple things:

1. Think of a Godly politician or candidate you know (this could be difficult). Send them a hand written note of thanks and encouragement. The ministry they have chosen is a difficult one, and one that is so vitally needed.

2. Think of a brother or sister who you have privately thought that their ministry might be a little less important than yours. Maybe a widow who cooked a special meal or the shy and quiet member who shows up to every assembly. Send that person a note letting them know that you have noticed their ministry, and that you're thankful for them.

Please do this and know that you will uplift me on a day when I need it. In the process, you will encourage two people who also need it. May God bless you in whatever ministry He has set before you.

Just Saying...

Growing up as a "PK" (Preacher's Kid) I have much experience dealing with Church conflict. Especially considering that in my family there are no secrets. I mean that if something was happening in the Church, be it good or bad, we- even as children- knew about it. We watched my parents pray, discuss the situation, and seek counsel with others. They didn't go behind closed doors to discuss the problems in our congregation. In more recent years we have taken it upon ourselves to pray and seek solutions as well.

It is impossible to be part of a Church without conflict. What is the Church? The Church is a body of PEOPLE, united by baptism and forgiveness through the blood of Christ. But we are just that- people. You cannot be in any group of people for very long without problems. Take a look at the most basic unit of people, the family, and try to tell me there are not problems in groups of people. Also, take a look through the book of Acts, which shows us the very beginning of the Church. My dad likes to talk about the "GPS for the book of Acts". GPS stands for Global Positioning System (which I desperately need, as I find myself lost in the town I grew up in), right? Yes, but in the book of Acts GPS stands for "Growth. Problems. Solutions." Even at the very start of Christ's Church there were problems. God did not, however, leave his Church without solutions to these problems. Thank Him for His Word, the Bible.

I am writing this because lately I have been discouraged by how people see fit to treat the Church. People lie to and about the Church. They slander the Church. They make lame excuses for missing the assembly, thus discouraging their brothers and sisters who DO make it a priority to be there. They Church hop for unworthy reasons. They nitpick and cause dissension. They spread rumors for years after leaving a congregation, just to make themselves feel good.

Do I see this more because I'm in the middle of it as the preacher's kid? I honestly don't know. I have never been anything BUT the preacher's kid. What I do know is that this needs to stop.

Why does it need to stop? Because Jesus Christ gave his LIFE for HIS Church. He is the Head and the Church is the Body. He is the Bridegroom and the Church is the Bride. You cannot be in full fellowship with Christ while stepping all over His Bride. You can't have the Head without the Body. It just doesn't work that way.

This is a plea for several things, and it is not so much written to those who are NOT part of the Church, but to those that ARE part of the Church.

1. Attend the assemblies of the Saints. Yes, Sunday worship is commanded- two times Sunday and once on Wednesday may not be. But why miss out on encouraging your brothers and sisters? I will never understand the reasoning behind doing just enough to get by. And let me take it a step further. Are there Vacation Bible schools, prayer meetings, work days, encouragement meetings, business meetings, or teen events you are missing for one reason or another? Change your schedule to work around them. A church event is a CHURCH event. I don't care if it's for 2 year olds, 12 year olds, 17 year olds, or 80 year olds, I am SURE there is a way you can help out. You are part of the Church, no matter how old you are, and it should be your priority to be there.

Yes, I know there are valid reasons for missing the assemblies. But let me say that I believe there are VERY, very.. VERY few valid reasons. We live in a fast paced society and the Church has started to excuse absences for just about any reason. Think about your reasons. Really, are they worth not being with your brethren? Are they worth forsaking the assembly? I believe your brothers and sisters know if you really want to be there. And let's be honest, GOD knows your heart and if you really want to be there.

I could tell you stories of old women being CARRIED into every meeting of the Church because they were too weak to walk. But why? If you don't want to be there, you won't be.

2. Do not speak evil of or complain about the Church. There are times to speak out against something that has been done which is wrong. There is a time and a place to bring up concerns. But please do not speak evil of Christ's bride. Most men would not appreciate if you spoke evil of THEIR wives.

It amazes me how people can come up with reasons why someone caused them to leave the church, or a congregation. Probably because I'm in the preacher's family, I have had that finger pointed at me more than I would like to say. There are scriptural ways to approach a brother or sister if you have been offended. But could it be that these people KNOW that it is not any individual's fault, but would rather not be honest about their reasons for leaving? Which leads me to my next request.

3. Do not lie to the Church. You can lie by what you say, by what you do not say, and by what you do. Honesty always works. Leaving the congregation for one reason or another? Be honest. Couldn't make it to worship last Sunday because of a valid reason? Be honest. Skipped the assembly for a sorry reason? Be honest. Looking for a new church home? Be honest. Did a brother or sister hurt your feelings? Be honest. In all things JUST BE HONEST. I'm not sure how to state this any more plainly, except to say that it's wrong to lie to the Church. That about sums it up- from "little white lies" to huge lies, from deceit to misleading behavior- it's all wrong.

4. Make yourself accountable to a congregation. I know that it's fun to fellowship with brethren you don't always get to see, hear guest speakers at other congregations, and attend youth rallies. But it's important to be under the leadership of a congregation in order to be held accountable. This is not so much about not treating the Church badly. It's about keeping yourself safe from falling through the cracks. If you are constantly flitting around from congregation to congregation, how do the brethren at home know when to expect you and when not to? If every single special speaker or youth event in the area takes you away from your congregation, are the members at home supposed to call and check up on you? Your congregation NEEDS you to be with them.

5. Don't always look for the greener pastures. Church hopping is common. I'm not against looking at different options and finding the best fit. But find it, and work with it. Don't leave because of any little problem. Don't look at what such and such congregation is doing and wish you were there. Focus on where you are and make it the best it can be. Use your talents and abilities to encourage the congregation you are in. Again, I realize that there are good reasons to leave a particular congregation. But when you make a commitment to a congregation, any little problem should not be a reason to leave. Any exciting possibility at another congregation should not draw you away.

All in all, LOVE Christ's body, His Bride- the Church. When we can look at a group of imperfect people and love them anyway, we have become like Christ. When we can deal with problems within that group of people without tearing each other apart or giving up on one another, we have attained true discipline. When we can speak only good and great things about Christ's Church, He is pleased. When we learn to simply BE THERE, we encourage the Church. When we're honest no matter what, we can truly trust one another.

Remember, you cannot have the Head without the Body. Nor can you have the Bridegroom without the Bride. Love and respect the Church.

Rev 19:7 Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready.

2009

The Trujillos have been blessed with yet another wonderful year. God is good. Please know that we thank our God at every remembrance of you. (Phil. 1:3)
2009 has been an eventful and exciting year. From seeing Tim Hawkins live, to marching with crowds of TEA Party protesters, our family has been busy. We enjoyed a visit from my mom’s parents in September. We don’t get to see them nearly as much as we would like to, so this time together was greatly cherished. The Trujillo ladies spent a weekend in Estes Park, touring the Haunted Stanley Hotel. (although the Super 8 we stayed in was just as creepy!) The men had their fun hunting once again this year. They love the time spent together in the creation. Sarah and I spent two weeks counseling at Kamp Koinonia in the summer. My dad and Karl joined us for the second week- dad as a teacher and counselor and Karl as a camper. Three of us met Joe the Plumber at a TEA Party rally this year! Fellowship with our church family, homeschooling, football and basketball games, and discussions solving the world’s problems were also a large part of our year. And we only had to call the police to our house one time in 2009!

Marty (aka Dad) worked hard in our community/church garden all summer. This resulted in a fantastic harvest of sweet corn, tomatoes, pumpkins, zucchini, and lots of other tasty veggies! He spent a week in Arizona with his mom, sister, and brother-in-law. While we shivered in Colorado, he enjoyed palm trees and 80 degree weather! Of course he kept busy visiting with church members, studying for sermons, keeping bees, messing around in his “blow away shed”, and teaching Karl Greek and American History.

Allie (aka Mom) continues to enjoy her job at the post office and her time teaching Karl. The visit from her parents this summer was especially nice for her. Her Grandma Kay also came to visit! The doll collection continues to grow. We are very thankful for our mom, and her dedication to being a keeper at home. Mom is so thankful that her whole family is still living at home, so that we can enjoy the time spent together.

Sarah turned 20 this year! I, with lots of help from the rest of the family, and friends, was able to pull off a surprise birthday party! And she really was surprised when she walked in to find people from all areas of her life in the same room! On a not-so-positive note, Sarah was in a car accident that totaled her 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. However, she is now the proud owner of a 2004 Hyundai Elantra. Maybe one of the biggest highlights of Sarah’s year was a visit from her sister Amber, her brother-in-law Phil, and their three kids. She was able to spend a lot of time with them over the few days they were in town. Sarah continues to teach Bible class every week and work with the treasury and enjoys her job in the Sather’s Jewelers office.

Miranda, yours truly, had an interesting year with a lot of “new” things. For example, I am now driving my “new” old car (although I prefer “classic”). It’s a 1985 Ford Tempo in excellent condition and I couldn’t be any more happy with it! Also, after searching for a few months, I was blessed with two new jobs in February. The first was a job as a lunch lady sub and the second was as a Party Coordinator at Pump It Up. Both jobs have been wonderful. I was moved up to Shift Manager at Pump It Up over the summer, and have just recently quit the job as a lunch lady. I’ll miss it, but I’m enjoying spending more time at the Inflatable Party Zone, working on marketing in addition to managing. In February I officially became Miranda Trujillo, Master Herbalist! Since then I have been making and selling my own remedies, which can now be found at Copoco’s Honey, a local beekeeper’s shop. “Randi’s Remedies” can also be found at www.copocoshoney.com . Last but not least, I was able to spend some time in Indiana last summer with my grandparents. I love the church family there, and the little town of Wheatfield where I can walk anywhere I need to go. I had a blast doing photo shoots with my cousins (who are some of my best friends) Joanna, Emily, and Abby.

Karl started on CLP Jr. High’s Varsity basketball team at the beginning of the year. More recently he started on Poudre Highschool’s Freshman football team and even more recently made Poudre’s Sophomore basketball team! As I am writing this, they have had one loss and one win. Karl is always encouraged by our friend Chuck, who makes it to every game! We had a scare at the beginning of the football season. While Karl was headed to Denver with his team he went into Anaphylactic Shock due to an unknown pineapple allergy. Needless to say, we are much more careful what we feed him these days (which is quite a task, you would understand if you knew how much he eats.) In addition to this scare, Karl sustained a ripped off fingernail, bit into tongue, and broken pinky throughout his sports seasons this year. Some of the newest news about Karl is that he is now employed at Pump it Up as a Party Attendant, which technically makes me his boss. He continues to enjoy air soft wars with friends, and his trading card business.

We hope 2010 will be a great year for you!

What are you doing?

When you graduate, you get used to questions like, "What are you going to do now?" and "What school are you going to?" That seems fine and good...for about a month. Then it gets old. Many people have a definite answer... most probably the school they'll be attending, their major, etc. I had no such answer. "I'm not going to school." was my answer for a while. My answer to "What are you going to do now?" was something like, "Uh..nothing much different." Either that, or I would pull out one of the things I'm "doing"- an educational endeavor, job, or whatever came to mind at the moment. But that one thing never seemed to sum up my life- what I'm doing.

Here's the problem. I've been graduated for TWO YEARS now and these questions have not stopped. The problem is not that I'm doing nothing. The problem IS what people have come to expect as an answer- where I am going.

What am I doing? A few weeks ago someone asked me again what school I'm going to. When I said that I'm not, he asked what I'm doing. I scramble for answers a lot. How can I relate "what I'm doing" to this particular person? Are they looking for education answers? Job answers? Hobby answers? Interest answers? I stopped scrambling. Instead, I answered "I'm living." To which he replied something along the lines of, "Yeah, I don't do much either."

Well, obviously, my somewhat smart alec answer didn't get me far. I went on to explain that my life includes a lot of things. But how do you describe what you're doing in one sentence? I'm living my life. I'm trying my best to serve God with it. I realize that my beliefs are different, and that's probably why I have a hard time putting into words what my plans are.

A few years ago a series of events, books, prayer, and discussion convicted me of something. I became convicted of the fact that my life is not mine. I realized that there is a great plan for my life. I learned that I needed to let go of plans to prosper myself. I looked to God's Word to find what I, personally, was meant to do. I prayed and talked with my family. First of all, we decided that I wouldn't be GOING anywhere. God placed me in a family, and that is where I intend to stay. See, I think God is all powerful and wise. He knows us- what we desire, what we need. He knows how to prosper us. I find that my role is to be a Godly daughter and, Lord willing, wife someday. But the "wife someday" aside, what is my role? My role is to prepare.

How can I prepare? This was a question that bugged me almost constantly. What can I do with my time- with my life at this moment- to prepare. Well, first of all I needed to realize that even if I never GET MARRIED, there's a plan for me. So maybe the best preparation is to understand that serving my family is a high calling. This was the main reason I decided against GOING. I want to stay.. to be HERE, with my family, to serve them. However, I've found that being with them blesses me more than I can ever bless them with my presence.

When looking through God's Word, we can find how to fulfill our role at any stage in life. Children obey your parents. Wives submit to your husbands. Husbands love your wives. What I found in the books written by the christian community was a great lack of information on one stage in life- that of the adult, unmarried daughter. Actually, instead of a lack of information I found a lack of BIBLICAL information. The role of the unmarried adult daughter is assumed, by the Christian community, to be a time of finding yourself and showing your independence. This doesn't seem much different than the world's plan for this stage in life. This stumped me for a while. But I came to understand that God didn't leave anyone out. He didn't leave us blind in this world, wondering what to do. He didn't give us permission to seek after the world's plan for success for a season, and then somehow hope to return to God's plan for success when we say "I do". Christian young women are already FOUND, with no need to find themselves. And I can't find in God's Word where it says that we are meant to be independent- at any stage in life. So what is the unmarried Christian daughter to do? Why would she do anything different? If God didn't specifically point out "at eighteen year old graduation, do such and such", then maybe she's meant to do what she's been doing all along. That is, obeying her parents, preparing for a future family, serving the Church, etc. The change in her life comes when she submits herself in marriage to a Godly man- transferring her submission from her father to her husband. Never is there a time when the daughter becomes her own Spiritual authority. From what I can find, her role starts with "Honor your father and mother." and then becomes "Submit to your husband." I can't find an in between stage of "Submit to your own authority". Once a young woman has become independent of her family, it has to be just that much harder to return to the role of submission once she's married.

Preparation. Many see college as preparation for their future. And who am I to say that it's not? My personal convictions are just that- personal. So anyone reading this should realize that this is MY response to the questions I get. This is not a sermon of conviction to others.

For me, college would be the opposite of preparing. What do I seek to achieve? I seek to be a Godly daughter (first to my heavenly Father, and then to my earthly parents- who were given to me to send me toward my heavenly Father). I seek to be a Godly sister. I seek to be a Godly friend, coworker- you name it. What is my long term goal? To be a Godly wife and mother. Let me make it clear- personally, I see NO BETTER WAY to prepare to be a Godly wife and mother than to use my time becoming a Godly daughter and sister.

Career. What a word! People ask me often, "Well what do you want to DO?". They're referring to what career I want. Short, sweet and to the point- I don't want a career. That isn't my goal.

College. It prepares you for a career. As I have said before, I want to be a Godly wife and mother someday. My first priority is making sure that I can someday put my kids first- raising, training and educating them with the bulk of my time. So college, first of all, would train me for an occupation that I would neglect once children came into the picture- maybe even before children if the occupation kept me from focusing on my home.

College also takes lots of money. Money that I don't have. So not only would it train me for a career that I wouldn't use for long- it would put me into debt for this training. Debt that might cause me to continue working at the career I don't want in order to pay off the training I needed for the career I don't want...

Instead I've decided to work and save my money. I have several jobs that don't require a college degree. I have been so immeasurably blessed with jobs that I love- jobs that help me further my goal. I hope that the money I save will be put to good use in the first few years of my marriage, or even set aside for a down payment on a house. To put it simply, I don't know how the money will be used. But I know it will go further if I save it now instead of spending it on career training when my life goal doesn't include that career.

A keeper at home...a helpmeet. I can cook and clean and educate kids. I can sew (sort of) and my ironing skills are pretty good. But being a keeper at home is more than just keeping the house itself. A young woman can have these skills but not understand the lifestyle of a keeper at home. With all the pressure to "succeed", and my own selfishness, I sometimes find myself waivering. I find myself seeking after experiences, education, relationships, etc. that do not further my lifestyle of a helpmeet and keeper at home. But why seek after something- pouring time, money, effort and emotions into it if it does not further my goal. Why put so much into something when I don't believe that it is part of God's plan for my life?

So what am I doing? I'm seeking after education, experiences, ministry opportunities, relationships, jobs, hobbies and interests that help me achieve my goal of becoming a helpmeet and servant. A helpmeet first to my dad, mom, sister and brother with the hope of someday being the wife and helpmeet of a Godly man. A servant to the church and to everyone around me. That is what I'm doing. :)

Retreat at Mountain Park

When the Army Invaded Our Backyard ; )

TEA Party!!!

My 2008

It's almost a new year, which really is hard for me to believe. Here's some of what happened in 2008 in the Trujillo household.

Marty

(otherwise known as "dad")

This year one of the coolest things in my dad's life was getting a job as an assistant coach. He coached the 7th grade football team at CLP and had lots of fun doing it! He took videos of some hilarious drills his kids did. They provided much fun and entertainment. He looks forward to coaching again in Fall 2009. Dad also worked hard with the bees and with his garden. The garden takes a lot of work, but it's very much worth it. He's considering a church/community garden on the newly acquired church property. It was a tough year for my dad in many ways, although it's really hard to picture that because his attitude is always positive. Looking back, I realize that this year was harder on my dad than you might suspect at first glance. He said some goodbyes to dear people in his life, whether caused by death or departure from this area. He experienced the pain of rejection- not of himself only, but of Christ and His church. This year showed him, and us, the fact that ministry is not easy. We knew this already, but each time a heart turns from God we realize it anew. I admire my dad's perseverence and positive outlook on life.

For the first time this year my dad showed his protection of his daughters not only spiritiually and emotionally, but also physically in a very big way. He has always been my protector, but this year, through certain happenings, I have seen first hand the strength my dad possesses and the willingness he has to stand up for my honor and protection. Any guy can say that he protects and loves the women in his life, but it takes a real man to join action with his words. My dad is a real man.

Another highlight of this year was the hunting trips dad took with Karl. They had a great time filled with fellowship and much chasing...*ahem*...hunting. They have a wonderful hunting party filled with good friends. They enjoy the time together doing their manly things. One more thing that comes to mind about this year in my dad's life is that we spent endless hours at Karl's football and basketball games, some of them quite a distance away from our home. Sometimes it seemed like a bother to drive so far, but we always ended up having such a fun time cheering, getting to know the other families, discussing the games (in a very animated manner), and stopping at burger king or sonic for a "little snack" before heading home where mom had supper ready. ; )

Allie

(aka "Mom")

My mom had another great year serving God and her family. She keeps busy homeschooling Karl, editing my many articles and papers, making our home a beautiful, fun, and desirable place to live, supporting my dad in his work (more editing of bulletin articles), and trying out new recipes as well as old favorites (English toffee, chicken enchiladas, and the wonderful cake mix Christmas cookies topping the list, imo). When she has free time she reads many books on Godly living, raising children, homeschooling, and any other topic that catches her interest. She knows about a wide variety of topics, and is continually educating herself further.

Mom did plenty of work for the church this year. She taught the children's Bible class almost non-stop. She plans and organizes lots of events for the church and is becoming well known for her tea parties. She also started helping out in some areas of the treasury, which has been a great help to the treasurer. A new bulletin board is a sure sign that my mom has been there, and she keeps the building sparkling clean. She also enjoys getting to know members of the community better by working at the post office.

A vacation to Indiana was a fun occasion for my mom. This summer she was able to spend time with her parents and siblings while attending her parents' retirement party. For me, and for my mom too, it was such a neat time because we got to see how much my grandparents were appreciated at Schultz-Lewis Children's Home. They did great work there, and their work with children started something really incredible. Each of their children carried on this love of helping others, particularly children and the disabled.

My mom is a seamstress, and has taken up sewing aprons as gifts and for our hope chests. She has a beautiful collection of very unique aprons. The doll collection also continues to grow. Three more were added at Christmas this year.

Mom is a beautiful keeper at home, and when I asked her about her life this year she said "I love my life. I'm happy. I have a husband and children... How do you explain that to people?" Well, I'm not sure I can explain it in full. But I'll go ahead and try:

Ps 112:1 Praise the LORD! How blessed is the one who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in His commandments.

Ps 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart.

Sarah

Sarah has become quite successful at work. Last year at this time she was a gift wrapper at Sather's Jewelers. This year she is the administrative assistant. She has her very own office in Sather's corporate office. It was exciting for her to be able to pick out furniture and decorations for a personal office only a few months after being hired. She has spent a lot of time getting to know her co-workers and has made good friends there.

In 2007 Sarah was somewhat weak and in poor health. She had ulcers that were caused by a milk diet and too much ibuprofen (after oral surgery). This year Sarah has her health back. This is thanks to her herbalist sister ( ; ) ), a smart mom, and much diligence on her own part. We were able to heal her ulcers using natural treatments. What a success! Not only is she feeling much better, she also has a beautifully straight face.

Another big thing in Sarah's life is the fact that one of her older sisters moved back to the area. Now she has a cute little niece and nephew to spoil, as well as her sister and brother in law to get to know better. We're praying that through our example and invitations, they will become faithful Christians. We're having a lot of fun spending time with them, and I know that's especially true in Sarah's case.

Talk about fun! Sarah was a counselor at Kamp Koinonia for the first time this year. She had the second youngest cabin of giggly girls. A week of prayer, fellowship, scripture, games, and no sleep (even less as a counselor than she got as a camper!) made for some great memories. She enjoyed her time there, and is looking forward to Kamp 2009.

Sarah was excited to vote for the first time this year! It was encouraging for her to FINALLY be able to have a voice in the elections.

Randi

(yours truly)

What a year! As was mentioned before, there were some low spots. This year has been SO exciting, and also stressful in many ways. For most of this year I worked as a nanny for the beautiful little Claire. I miss her very much. But some time off has been good for me. In February I started studying through GCNM's Master Herbalist course. After 5 extensive case studies, 2 papers, an exam, the AWFUL human anatomy coloring book, a fabulous salve-making experience, and lots of study and learning, I'm ALMOST DONE! Soon I'll be Miranda Trujillo, MH. I just enrolled in Vintage Remedies School of Natural Health. I'll be in the Family Herbalist course, gaining the title "FH" in addition to my "MH". This course is going to go more in depth on the specifics of caring for my family's health naturally. I can't describe how much I love learning about herbs and natural living in general. God is so great. He's provided us with our very own pharmacy and all we need to do is walk outside. It's true that He will look after us, as He looks after the sparrows. At times this provision is overlooked, and it's my goal to help people to realize the beauty and health that is right under their noses.

I voted! For the first time! And that was AWESOME! I was involved in campaigning for Ammendment 48. Although it didn't pass, I believe it was a great step and I'm glad I was able to help in a small way.

I also was able to spend some time at Kamp Koinonia this year. I went first week as a counselor- what an experience! The staff was small that week, and I had 13 girls in my cabin. It was challenging, and I was able to lead in ways that I never thought I would. It helped me to grow in my leadership and I'm so thankful for the experience. I've been keeping in contact with quite a few of "my girls" and I hope that my friendship to them is encouraging, and that I can help them in their walk with God. I had another great week at Kamp on third week- my last time as a camper.

I took two trips to Indiana this year. First for the retirement party, then a few months later to spend some one-on-one time with my grandparents. I love it there. I got to know some people in the church there, where my grandpa preaches, and I got to know my grandparents well too. While I was there, Joanna, my second cousin spent some time with me. We had a blast with photo shoots, movies, and shopping! I'm hoping to go back at least once in 2009.

Over the summer I was able to "experiment" with my American Sign Language teaching abilities. Some of my good friends, who are in my homeschool group, were my students.

It seems to me that this year was one of lost friendships. There are a few friendships that I valued so much, but I can no longer claim them as "friendships". I'm praying that those friends will be restored if it's God's will. However, I have seen that God more than fills that void if I allow Him to. Even though I lost some friends this year, I gained even more!

I continue to see God's glory, and He continues to bless me beyond measure. How unbelievable it is that He not only took my place of shame and punishment, but He also chooses to bless me. How awesome is the God that I'm honored to serve.

Karl

Karl. Wow. What an athlete. He played Varsity left defensive end and fullback for CLP Jr. High's 8th grade team. He finished the season with 37 tackles and 3.5 sacks, with 15 carries for 36 yards. He then played with his home school basketball team in the Private/Charter school league on the Varsity starting line up as a power forward. In the last game of the season Karl smoked the old record by making 22 points in one game! He just made the CLP Jr. High 8th grade basketball team's Varsity starting line up and will be playing through January and February. His feet are size 14 and growing (which has made finding basketball shoes quite an adventure for his mom...)! Through all this he spent the summer landscaping, found time to go hunting with his dad, went to Kamp Koinonia for a week, spent some time in Indiana, played airsoft with friends, participated in a basketball tournament fundraiser, and is working diligently at 8th and 9th grade at home. His sports card collection grows and grows...and grows.

Another exciting thing for Karl was that he went to Way FM's Winter Wonder Slam tour! He liked Relient K, DIDN'T like Family Force Five, and ended up REALLY enjoying Tobymac.

Karl is becoming a great leader. He leads singing and prayers, records the sermons, counts attendance, and helps out wherever needed. He also spent a quarter helping me teach a very fun Bible class about Battles in the Bible and the Armor of God. We had a great time teaching together. I'm praying that wherever God places Karl- on the basketball court, football field, in Bible class, at home, in the wilderness hunting- that my brother will use his life to glorify his Heavenly Father and to be a shining light in a world of darkness. Karl has been blessed with great ability and leadership, and I'm excited to see how God will use him.

Roxy and Bossy

Our Poms fill our home with happiness every day. They're always the first to greet us when we come home, and their constant antics keep us laughing. Their buddy, Teddy, came to stay for a week while his people were on vacation. What an exciting week that was!

The Rats

In Rat News- my clan didn't grow at all. It's hard to believe that I went without adding new rats to the family for an entire year. But it's true. I thought that I wouldn't be losing any rats from the clan this year either, but I was wrong. Zebedee, my handsome hairless heart rat, passed to the bridge on the 27th. Donovan is healthy and chubby as ever- a big teddy bear.

Church News

I want to encourage you to take a look at our church blog sometime: http://www.pleasantvalleychurchofchrist.blogspot.com/

The church had a tough year in some ways, but those who love God and are faithful to Him still bring us joy when we meet together. Several young people fell away, and it is our prayer that bad influences will be removed from their lives and that they will return the Christ's Bride as soon as possible. We lost some members- through death, and moving. Each member brings something special to the family, and they are all missed.

A few Sunday mornings back I woke up to my dad, on the phone, saying "Someone robbed our church building!" And someone had. They ripped our safe apart and got away with about $30. We laugh now, because we went through the safe later and found another $400 that the thief missed.

This year was not all bad. We had some fun and encouraging times! We had a fellowship day that was a great success. Our gospel meeting was also successful.

We call 2009 "The Year of Invitation" because we will all be focusing on something seemingly simple, yet actually very difficult- inviting. We will strive to invite anyone and everyone to Bible class, worship, potlucks, prayer meetings, and all other church events. We are praying that seasoned Christians who can help us in the work will come. We are also praying that we can bring new Christians into the flock. As Jesus said in Matthew 9:37, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few." May we bring in a great harvest in 2009.

New Family Pic

Sarah Palin Rally

Last night at the last possible minute my friends gave me

a ticket to the Sarah Palin rally!!!! I was so thankful because

I was sure I wasn't going to be able to get a ticket. We had a great time!

Sarah Palin with her daughters Willow and Piper, and her husband Todd. Hank Williams Jr. was there too. He sang his "McCain-Palin Tradition". It's hilarious!
They're building a new motel right next the the event center. This sign kept blowing, and then it would only say "Obama". The the construction guys would run up there and fix it, and the whole line of people would cheer!!! It was so fun, even when we were freezing in line for 2 hours!

Marilyn Musgrave, Wayne Allard, and Bob Schaffer were also there to speak. It was a great day. : )

The Real World

Can someone please explain to me what "the real world" means? Because, from what I can see the "real world" does not equal a brick building. Unless you work in a brick building. Then the real world does, of course, include one.

However, when you're in said brick building and you have a question...do you raise your hand? Do you carry a hall pass if you need to use the restroom? To leave one room and go into another, do you wait until you hear a bell? When you look around, do you see that an overwhelming majority of the people near you are exactly your age (give or take a few months)? When you do something good, do you get a gold star? Do you stand in a straight line as you move through the hallway?

If what I have described above is the "real world", then I say "no thank you". I'd rather not be part of it.

I'm a Christian first, but I love the fact that I'm also a homeschooler (I'm not technically homeschooled now, because I've graduated, but it's very much a part of who I am.) I can't tell you how many times my siblings and I have been asked about the "real world". It's an annoying question to answer because it's so silly. In response I usually ask for a definition. But I think homeschoolers wouldn't have to answer this question so much if people would first just think about what they're about to ask.

So tell me, what is your definition of "the real world"?

A watermelon's a watermelon, no matter how small...

Right??? This is a watermelon. We are very proud of our very first watermelon...no matter how small. ;)

Every time I kneel to pray, I open up my heart to the Lord.

Every time I close my eyes, I feel the sweet embrace of my Lord.

Every time I see a child, I see the gentleness of my Lord.

Every time I watch a storm, I know the awesome power of my Lord.

Every time I see a cross...

Amen!

Life is good, God is great. I rejoice in Him every day. He's given me so much- A father who knows and loves the role of leader and protector. A mother who is the role model of Biblical beauty. A sister- my best and closest friend. A brother who is fast becoming a mature man of God. A church family that is just that- a family. And onto the smaller things, like Indiana vacations, flower gardens, a great job, football games, rat kisses, long walks, and Human Bean!! : ) How can anyone actually COUNT their blessings?? They're without number.

I haven't been blogging too much lately. I'm having a hard time putting my thoughts together for long enough to write well about a particular topic. There are too many things to blog about. I'm working on several posts though. Soon to come:

The Education Idol

Kamp Koinonia Week 3

I just got back from another fellowship (koinonia) filled week- this time as a camper. I had a fantastic time, and I'll never forget my last year as a camper.

Daniel lookin' cool with the girls. ; )

My awesome date to banquet- Garret
Me and Megan (frizbeez) after the Jewel Hunt. We had TOO much fun!
Karl and his lovely banquet dates. ; )
Me and two of my awesomest guys. I love them! The beauty around us was incredible.
All of the Frizbeez!
The cheese chair. We smelled good, let me tell ya.
These are my two best friends in the world.
Me and my wonderful dad!!

Kamp Koinonia Week 1

I'm home from Kamp Koinonia until Sunday (I'll head back for another week). I had such a wonderful week. In fact, I think it was the best week of camp that I've ever been to. I had a cabin of 13 girls, which was so much fun. I spent a huge part of the week with one of my best friends- Talia. She was the other girl counselor, and we got to talk and hang out all week. I learned a lot from the lessons. The theme was "To Compete with Horses" which is found in Jeremiah 12:5.

My girls loved nail painting.

Week 1 Staff
Talia and me during reaping time (too fun!!)
With the lovely Hurt girls
Underground Church!
Jewel Hunt
Caleb, me, Isaac (wow, these boys grew!!!)
Kamp Koinonia Week 1

Indiana Trip

Just last night we got back from a trip to Indiana. We were there so that we could be at my grandparents' retirement party. All four of their children were there, and most of the grandchildren. It was a lot of fun!

This is the whole family minus my dad, my uncle David's wife, and her two sons.

My grandparents were given a gift from Shultz-Lewis, the children's home they've been working for for 20 years. They were houseparents, and my grandpa was the science teacher. My grandma also trained houseparents.

This one is too funny just because no one is doing what they're supposed to!

Here's one of me and my siblings, Karl and Sarah. I love this picture. That's just about the best smile we could get out of Karl.
Alrighty, here's a picture of us with our grandparents. : )

All of the grandkids. (Sarah looks SO pretty!!)

This is beautiful Judy with her handsome brothers Jed and Jeff. I was so glad to visit with them for a while. And I was especially happy to talk to Jed about highways. This kid knows every one that exists!!! He must like to study maps. :) (My mom is their first cousin, so that makes them my second cousins??) This is my favorite picture from the whole trip. We knew that my mom looks like her aunt Patty. But I don't think anyone realized just how much they look alike!! Another set of twins for you. This is me with my cousin Emily. People kept getting us confused.