Family Gregg

New Address

2011-06-24T07:31:00.000-07:00

Started a new blog.

I like the layout and the possibilities. It's strange though...leaving this adress for a new one.

Change is good & I hope you visit often.

via Gesu...a street sign that caught my attention in Milan.

The Sweetest Thing

2011-06-20T17:32:00.000-07:00

The sweetest thing ever. Mcabe's tears as we prayed together on the driveway...then pulled out.

I will carry those tears to my grave.

He Is & He Will

2011-06-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure that the earthly powers that be who made the decision to change things up had no real clue how that one little decision would affect the lives of 7 individuals and their intimate circles of family & friends.

They probably had no idea that future work options would require a move out of state.

That it would mean uprooting & finding a place for 7 people.

That it would mean finding others to fill our place here.

That it would mean MAJOR changes for 5 children and 2 parents deeply rooted in a community.

HUGE relational changes.

HUGE emotional changes.

HUGE educational changes.

HUGE financial changes.

That it would mean leaving a home. The only home 4 out of 5 children have ever known. 2 of them...w/adoption challenges. A whole other story.

That the day in and day out easy breezy contact w/ grandparents would change significantly.

That the day in and day out easy breezy contact w/ friends would change significantly.

That a trusted Pastor/Teacher & Sunday School class would become an internet presence.

That we would have to say "so long" to our 95 year old Aunt...while not knowing if it is really a "goodbye."

That one child in particular would be crying and saying...."I'm asking God to answer my prayers and He's not doing it." Her sweet prayer...that God would give Daddy a job in Az so that we don't have to move to Ca.

They had no idea. I am sure of it.
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Here's what I do know.

The Lord is GOOD.

He has used the decision made by the earthy powers that be to minister to my heart.

To give me HOPE.

He is aware of every single aspect of our move and He has purposed it. At this season. For a reason.

He is trustworthy.

He answers prayers.

He is in our corner.

He has our best interests in mind.

He is in control. Completely.

He knows us better than we know ourselves.

He will catch us.

He will make a way.

Mexican T.V. Till Death Us Do Part & Brotherly Love

2011-06-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

Why are the girls watching Mexican t.v.?????????????????????

This is the second time we have hired a professional window cleaner in our 16 years of living in this home.

The things we refuse to spend $ on ....unless forced.

I'm pretty thrifty and do not like to spend lots of cash when there is no reason to do so. Traditionally....we have been super frugal in the laundry detergent area. Costco bulk brand...whatever it is. It's fine....does the job. I've had no complaints.

Recently we ran out and needed a quick answer to a growing laundry pile. (No time for a Costco run...so Walgreens it was.)

WELCOME Gain Island Fresh into our lives. I will always buy you...from here on out. I do not care what I have to sacrifice in order to have you be a part of our lives. I will look for coupons and sales...but I will not choose another if I come up void. You have my word...I am yours and you are mine. Till death us do part.

btw...I have the most thoughtful friends in the entire world. New games for Zion during this busy time when most every adult around her is distracted and in over their heads.

Not Mcabe though...he's helping get things done that need to be done and making time for little sis.

Mom is super blessed today.

Family Folklore

2011-06-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

According to family folklore...he saw me there for the first time. I was wearing a long white fur coat. I had no clue he existed.

We didn't actually meet for another two years.

By Christmas of 1986...I had made the first move ;) and we were together.

I'm not sure if my romantic husband kept this little keepsake momento as a token of his love for me...or because he has a bit of pack rat blood running through his veins...but it is sweet that he still has it & that he remembers.

College Stuff

2011-06-10T09:01:00.000-07:00

More interesting info on college stuff.

Big 8!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-06-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

Pure joy. That's what this kid is to me. Even during her worst moments...it's pure joy parenting her.

Rubbish

2011-06-09T07:24:00.000-07:00

I have kept every single piece of work from every single child since our home-educating journey began in 2000.

Don't ask why? I have no idea. Even after pondering long and hard...I'm still at a loss.

It might have something to do w/pride. Like...see all we accomplished....WOW!

Or...it could be linked to fear....like holding onto the evidence...having the ability to to silence a would be future spouse of one of my sons who might be critical of our choice to keep him home.

I'm so ridiculous.

It doesn't even matter why cuz now it's all piled into a heap on the floor...ready for the trash bin which should be arriving on the drive-way within the hour.

I kept some writing and artwork. That's it.

The rest is rubbish.

We've got boxes of tax work as far back as 1985. There is seriously something wrong with us.

What Next?

2011-06-08T09:56:00.000-07:00

Ozzie encourages me so. He is someone I'd like to meet when I get to glory.

The Real World

2011-06-07T15:28:00.000-07:00

For those who visit this blog via the RAD world...you will be happy to know that we have not yet had any major regressions. Not even minor ones. Nothing to speak of.

This is HUGE news...considering the fact that we are moving out of state...leaving behind the only house and home since the orphange...11 years ago. Leaving behind family & friends. Church & co-op. Traveling to a home we've never actually seen. To an address I've not yet memorized and haven't even map quested yet....therefore cannot speak much about.

This is HUGE!

I am one proud mom.

Also a wise one....w/ lots of experience in the Real World. Verses the Bubble one.

Expecting a time of whiplash...while hoping & praying it won't ever come.

Moving

2011-06-04T16:14:00.000-07:00

Autumn Light

2011-06-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to a lovely SURPRISE! Autumn Light by Amy Whitehouse was waiting for me in the kitchen...wrapped up all pretty w/ a bow. A gift. In more ways than one.

I am so in love w/this piece and cannot wait to hang it. Since I have never actually seen the home we are moving to...I'm not sure what spot will do it justice....but as soon as I do know...I will post a photo.

John Huston

2011-06-02T16:27:00.000-07:00

I love what he has to say here. It's all about relationships.

Co-op

2011-06-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

This is Luke...one of my students. This past semester we had lots of fun in our Logic Class. Fallacy Detective provides a good framework for lessons. A few times....I warmed up their brains w/suduko challenges. Also...I had the kids produce their own commercial spots and print advertisements.

It was a blast to see the Final Propaganda Projects. Luke nailed his!

I've been co-oping with this group for the past ten years. I'm interested to see what the Lord will do as He moves us out of our comfort zone and into uncharted territory. I must be honest....it's a bit nerve wracking. I do love our co-op so. Life will be strange without them week in and week out.

It's the relationships I will miss most. The shared laughter. The shared tears. In close proximity.

A bunch of families getting together to educate their children as they see fit. With no imput from a school board. No imput from the gvt. Hardworking dads and hardworking moms. Hardworking kids.

It's wonderful.

One Wednesday Nite

2011-06-02T00:06:00.000-07:00

WARNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you are super sensitive you might be offended if you scroll further.

Brave: We have a problem, Dad. We need a spacer.
Brad: What?!????????

5 minutes later...

Brave: Damn it! These things stripped.
Brad: No they didn't.

And why is Mcabe's hand in his pants?

No explanation necessary.

This next image is a problem on multiple levels.

TV babysitter.
No sheets.
A "borrowed" towel from one of the various local 4-5 Star hotels where the boys & their friends sneak into when they are bored out of their minds...serving as a blanket. Resort town living.

btw......I love Steven Tyler btw. He is the perfect Jewish grandfather.

Rasberry Ripple Purse

2011-06-01T22:21:00.000-07:00

Jemima has been advancing in her sewing skills thanks to lessons @ our local Bernina Store. She's made a zippered change purse, a pretty blouse, and this intricate handbag...all under the tutelage of older mentors. It's been so sweet to watch her interact w/the ladies. They are tickled by her tender age and obvious passion.

We're thinking this is most likely a life long bent that we need to nurture.

If you have a kid that wants to sew and make pretty things...take advantage of the Bernina groupons whenever they pop up. I highly recommend their shops.

Nylon

2011-05-26T21:54:00.001-07:00

Shabby Chic NoHo

2011-05-26T18:55:00.000-07:00

We have a new address. Move-in date June 15th. The homeowner is just as beautiful as can be. She is an actress w/ an Emmy. A believer and conservative in her politics. She's leaving the industry to teach English to kids overseas.

Why oh why did I ever struggle w/confusion, fear & doubt when The Lord had every detail taken care of all along?

My faith has been stretched. And strengthened.

The house we will be living in is so lovely. Brave and Mcabe have their own separate space on the property...w/a bathroom & a kitchenette. There's a white picket fence and even a great big tree in the yard.

You should see the smiles on the kids faces. Well, four of them are smiling. Sweet Zion is fighting back tears. This transition is a BIG deal for her little heart.

Please keep us in your prayers as we are now selling our vehicles and replacing them w/wiser choices for LA. Also...we need a renter for our home.

On another note...Brad heard from the old friend we bumped into at the Bob's Big Boy parking lot last week. He's the real deal.

Enormously blessed tonight.

Luke 9:58

2011-05-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

Desert Ranch is a "no." Think Big Love.

The Cottage is a "no." Too tiny upon reflection.

Zen Garden is a "no." Accepted an applicant who was in line before us.

Burbank Skyline is a "no." Someone somewhere didn't like something I said on my blog. I suppose I was googled.

Meeting w/my parents tonight. Need some wise counsel.

Prayers would be appreciated as we are finishing up all that needs to be finished up here. Last minute details.

Class of 2011

2011-05-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

He didn't want to wear a cap & gown and walk in tonight's ceremony. Rather than having a party...he's opting for the $cash$ instead. He's a smart kid. Talented and compassionate. Also passionate and loving. Discerning.....generous...humourous...a self starter and a team player.

Mcabe just signed a 3 year contract with Ford Models & Lord willing, will be signing w/a film & t.v. agent shortly. Also...if the creek don't rise....he'll be working...taking acting classes.... and... possibly some architecture ones too. He recently verbalized a desire to do so and he's always been really good w/design stuff...so.....why not?

Today he gets his driver's permit :)

Proud parents over here.

"The question is not, -- how much does the youth know? when he has finished his education -- but how much does he care? and about how many orders of things does he care? In fact, how large is the room in which he finds his feet set? and, therefore, how full is the life he has before him?"

Charlotte Mason

College Conspiracy

2011-05-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

Jeni posted this documentary over on her blog. It's good. Makes you think. Worth the time.

And then...this morning...this article.

And yet again.....this one.

Brave & Carly

2011-05-22T21:17:00.000-07:00

I'm a super proud Mom. Great acting chops. SUBTLE! WOW! Thank YOU, LORD...that I get a glimpse behind the scenes of my son's life.

side note *
We haven't done Halloween since 1997. At least I thought we haven't :)

Trusting

2011-05-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

One possible landlord has been consistent in her "perpetual silence."

One is all of the sudden "absent."

One is "neither here nor there." Answering e-mails but nothing other than that.

And one is "pursuing us." Hardcore.

In the a.m....Julie is going to check out a property...the hardcore one.... we have not yet seen in person. It's either gonna be the royal craig's list scam of the century or pure awesomeness.

Can you guess which is which?

Trusting.

It's not 100% easy packing everything you own w/out being able to tell the kids...especially Galilee, Jemima, and Zion....where it's all being moved to.

Brave and Mcabe....they couldn't care less. They are so gone and already wherever it is that we are going.

JJ Heller's Control

2011-05-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

Bradley and I had lots of fun co-producing JJ Heller's latest music video. She is a hoot. A HOOT! Totally a fun chick.

So interesting...the collaborative process....and how it works itself out. It's strange writing a treatment/concept and then having other artists adding and removing elements you yourself might not choose to add or remove. A great learning experience.

Bradley had lots of fun directing. I must say...he is a respectful and intuitive leader. He has a quiet strength about him and he knows how to set the tone.

John Moessner...the D.P. & eventual editor is super too.

Eeny Meeny Miny Moe

2011-05-22T06:33:00.000-07:00

UPDATE:

The Desert Ranch is now in the mix. Got a call back from the owners who live in Montana. Super cute. Lots of cacti. Rose bushes too. Hard wood floors. Fireplace. Detached office...which means the boys could have their own space and we can have a guest room!!!!!!!!! Larger living area than the Skyline Burbank. Same street and same$ as Zen Garden.

_______________________________________

So we have applications in at three properties.

The Cottage in the mountains of Tarzana (S. of Ventura) is so special due to it's charm and the GORGEOUS piece of land it sits on. Small living space but doable. It's like a little fairyland. Zion's favorite. Actor landlord. Least $.

The Zen Garden is great too. Equestrian area of Burbank. Near Disney & Griffith Park. Boys would have their own guest house out back...(w/out a bathroom...but they can come in the main house for that.) Actress landlord.

The Skyline Burbank one by Warner Bros. is the first one we saw which we came back to...but still haven't gotten a response on. It's super cute...super clean. Smack in the center of Burbank. Most interior living space. Most $.

Bradley, Mcabe, and I are torn. We like all three very much for different reasons.

It seems like a tough decision...so we're taking my Dad's advice...which is to let it go now......not pursue one over the other and see what happens.

It's as if I keep falling into this forgetting that the Lord is intimately involved in the details of my life thing. I can be going along well...trusting and walking step by step...and then...suddenly I run smack into my own humanity. Wanting clarity and immediate answers. Lacking patience. Trying to control the situation. I'm such a fool.

What's wrong with me?

BGlp lgBP

2011-05-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

We have literally scoured every corner of Los Angeles and all areas in between. It's all come down to one home...the first one we saw and have returned to after viewing approx. 30 others. The paper work has been delivered for review and now we wait to see if it is where we will be settling in. It seems we should have a back up choice before pulling out of town...but as of right now, we do not. It's as if the Lord is being very specific with us. This location...this size...this $. Trusting in His sovereignty today. Praying we would find favour in the home owner's eyes.

Also...our every morning breakfast is a Sam's Bagel. We were finishing up Wed. morning when Bradley said, "I just need someone to say...Bradley Gregg! Where the heck have you been?" We all chuckled at his nice little fantasy.

Not an hour later...he was standing in the Burbank Bob's Big Boy parking lot when he hears..."BRADLEY!!!!!!! BRADLEY GREGG Get over here! Where have you been?!?!?!?!" It was a dear actor friend of ours. Well known w/ the ability to follow thru on his offers. Immediately, he offered to help...to make some calls. He's a genuine man. I believe he will. It was so nice to catch up with him. Been married to the same wife we knew way back when for over twenty years now and they have two daughters.

Another old friend has helped in a mighty way & offered much encouragement. So humbled.

Yet another is working hard to find us a place and protect us in a lease.

An yet another...a new friend...is offering introductions where introductions are desired.

We are trusting that these are open doors and we are walking forward step by step.

Fear about the future does seep in every now and then...but we keep remembering...BIG God little problem. Little God BIG problem.

It hit me this morning that our kids are watching all of this very closely. Oh Lord, that you would use this time period to grow their individual faith walks in powerful and lasting ways. Lord, may their roots be digging deeper as they are being uprooted.

My Name is Dawn & I am a Mystic

2011-05-17T21:17:00.000-07:00

We had a super chill ride after a disastrous and stress filled morning.

If you know my husband...you know that he is a mystic. That means he sees meaning in things others might miss. God's whispers if you will. All around. All the time.

I'm actually a bit of a mystic myself...but I don't own it with the passion that Bradley does. I'm sad to admit... it doesn't always sit well with my practical side.

All that to say....

Axl sang us in. AXL!!!!!!!!
4:30 on a week day..
Zero traffic.
Five free lanes.
Wide open.

Passing the skyline...singing at the top of our lungs..... "WHERE DO WE GO? WHERE DO WE GO O NOW? WHERE DO WE GO O O O O OH WHERE DO WE GO o NOW?

Another awesome little whisper....Damon called as we passed the Hollywood sign. Although we know that he is in a safe place and doing well...we have not heard from him in quite a while. Talked about him during the drive. So weird how we were thinking of him and he was thinking of us at the same exact time.

____________________________________________

On a side note....ate dinner at one of our favorite restaurants...Chan Dara. The chicken curry is TO DIE FOR.

On the way in....I fell like a clutz into a pothole/gross puddle thing getting out of the van. Cracked my cell phone screen...so I cannot send or receive texts. If you need to get a hold of me...call. Took three extra strength Tylenol and am now going to sleep in Marina Del Rey.

Wait...I wonder if me falling in a pothole means anything???????

Grace Community

2011-05-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

Besides the fact that we are going to the City of Angels soonish...there is one more thing that we know. While there...we will attend Grace Community...that is....Lord willing and the creek don't rise :)

You do not have to live in the LA area to benefit from Pastor MacArthur's teachings though...you can actually find him on the radio. Of all places!

btw...the opposition to this pastor and his message is very real. It often comes from believers in the name of "concern"...veiled...yet not so subtle. More often than not ....it's private conversations that reveal the heart of criticism while public accolades abound. And usually...it's second hand info that's been passed on that has everyone so wound up.

Reminds me of the opposition facing pastors like John Politan and Voddie Baucham...among others.

Makes me want to vomit....the face to face handshakes whilst jabbing knives in the back.

I should know. Been there done that.

Beachwood Canyon?

2011-05-14T15:33:00.000-07:00

UPDATE:

These 3 HARDWORKING men have been here for 9 hours now...busting their cojones. I've offered to feed them multiple times. They keep denying me.

So we tipped them cerveza $.
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UPDATE:

We are convinced that a modest little free standing home w/a yard would be best. No one above or below. We are a family of 7 after all. I don't know what your arguments are like...but ours are doozies :)

If you are so led...please pray that we find a great place at a great price. Oh...and that the perfect renter wants to live in our Sonoran Desert home.
_______________________

As I check e-mails & slip in a quick blog post from our very congested den area...3 super hardworking men (here 7 hours so far) are laying 22 square yards of industrial strength charcoal grey flooring...and....Jules & Liam are checking out a Beachwood Canyon place for us!

Things are progressing quickly. Not much else to do. A new kitchen sink and a new stove. Cleaning and sealing tile floors and counter tops. Small fix-ups here and there.

We made do over the years...a practice most can relate to...but our renters will have some really nice upgraded digs.

Education Article

2011-05-13T19:01:00.000-07:00

GREAT article dealing w/ education.

Move

2011-05-13T14:45:00.000-07:00

We were hearing ..."Prepare."

Now we are hearing..."Move."

Notice pretty new tiled roof.

Bear w/ Me

2011-05-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

It's either that I have schizophrenia or...my spiritual life has caught up with my emotional one (or has the emotional one caught up to the spiritual one?)......cuz...tonight I AM FREAKIN' EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We have spent a good part of the last some odd years begging the Lord to show us a sign of His goodness (in this one particular area...work/career) For open and closed doors. For clarity and for direction.

He has done JUST THAT!

btw... my mood may change again....so bear with me.

Synthetic CHRISTmas tree

2011-05-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

Mcabe climbed to the top of the little rocks today and left a synthetic Christmas tree atop. He dragged poor Jemima with him and Lord only knows what our neighbors are now thinking. From down here...it looks as if something rather strange has appeared out of nowhere.

Sorta like the 2 believing couples at the end of the cul-de-sac who have never in their lives said "boo" to us.... who came out of the woodwork this week. Because of all the recent comings & goings....departing wall units...couches etc....they have caught on to the fact that we won't be around much longer.

It seems they've been watching us from afar. They know how many kids we have. They know who we worship.

Just never said "hi" before (or smiled for that matter.)

WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

We could have been having BBQ's. What is wrong w/people?

Mother's Day

2011-05-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

You can take the family out of BKLYN but you cannot take BKLYN out of the family. We glommed 3 large Pastsy Grimaldi's pizzas and 3 large salads. Might as well have given us straws so we could've inhaled.

I think we should plop here soonish, friends. Pack some lunches and plop.

Prayer Request

2011-05-10T19:12:00.000-07:00

Zion's been acting out (clingy at times, aloof at times, HYPERsensitive) which lets us know how stressed she is right now. Last weekend, I took her to a Ladies Tea and today, Bradley took her to the library and for some Cold Stone. Pray for her heart, please. And for Galilee's & Jemima's too...please.

The boys are STOKED!

Egg & Musroom Scramble w/ Avacado & Salsa Verde Fire Roasted Corn Tortillas

2011-05-10T19:06:00.000-07:00

Mcabe Justus Gregg

2011-05-10T17:20:00.001-07:00

Brave Gregg

2011-05-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

White Knucklin' it

2011-05-09T16:36:00.000-07:00

Just so you know family....this is in nowayshapeorform an easy process. The Lord is good so He's been preparing my heart but I'm telling you right now...I expect you to show up when called upon. If you abandon me just because I am living 6 hours away...I will be crushed and utterly disappointed in you. Not to mention pissed off.

And you should probably be prepared to do some future pursuing/intervention cuz my system is in shock and I do not know what I will be needing.

Bradley by Dave Heller

2011-05-06T18:20:00.000-07:00

Recently, we had a lovely opportunity to co-produce w/ JJ & her husband, Dave.....their Control music video. Bradley had so much fun directing and in between set ups...Dave snapped away.

Emotional Roller Coaster

2011-05-06T16:26:00.000-07:00

2011-05-06T13:28:00.000-07:00

And more painting. Josh Clark is doing a FANTASTIC job! Brave and Mcabe...I have 2 things to say...

"It's about time."

and

"Eh."

The Kids Are Alright

2011-05-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

I liked it. It was smart.

I would've had the affair between Jules & Paul revealed thru a pregnancy though. That would've added a whole other element the characters and audience would need to wrestle through.

side note: Mia Wasikowska is super special.

Ginger Fag

2011-05-05T17:41:00.000-07:00

PAUSE my Music Player first.

Calm down. Don't freak out. Take a deep breath. Take a listen.
It's times like this when I ponder the whole pulling them out of AWANA thing.

Obviously, some will be offended. Try not to be.

Chillin Like a Homie by Ginger Fag

This kid is BRILLIANT! Always remember....you heard it here first.

Plan B

2011-05-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

I was having a hard time letting this piece go....kept thinking to myself..."I should be finding some fabulous fabric and reupholstering this....."

....so that's my new plan. Thanks Anthropologie... for the inspiration.

Note to Friends

2011-05-05T09:17:00.001-07:00

A heads up...friends. All you will be needing in LA is an air mattress or two. We will provide sheets and food.

Ted Hawkins

2011-05-01T19:57:00.001-07:00

PAUSE my Music Player first.

Bradley and I were living together in sin...in Venice.

We had no idea that the guy was sharing the Gospel w/ us even though his CD was playing constantly in our Mitubishi Montero.

20 years later the Lord is using him to speak to us from the grave.

Today, I asked Bradley to find a place for us there...in Venice. Not my ideal. Not where I might choose. Yet...I asked him to pursue our options. There. In Venice. Once again.

Then, My Man showed me this video. I kept thinking we would show up barefoot in the background on the boardwalk.

Memories.

Ted was awesome. Google him.

Rest

2011-05-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure that the Lord has ever used a teacher to speak more clearly to our family than He did today. At each turn...I cried. Bradley cried. The girls gave knowing glances. The boys offered loving hugs. Tight...knowing loving hugs.

There is no way he could have known precisely about yesterday's stress filled panick attack moment. Or today's crushing e-mail response and shattered heart...yet both were addressed in detail....as if he were aware.

The Lord knows and He uses God fearing men to speak clearly into our lives. I am convinced of it.

I will never ever forget driving away from the chapel in our minivan and Brave saying, "That was amazing."

What an enormous blessing our teacher is to us. Our class is to us. Be still my heart that we would find such favour.

Then, an afternoon of rest.

Busy Busy Busy

2011-04-30T11:00:00.001-07:00

If he falls and breaks his neck I SWEAR TO GOD ALMIGHTY...I'LL KILL HIM!!!!!!!!

Sauteed Mushroom & Sun Dried Tomato w/ Red Pepper Flakes & Fig Goat Cheese Pasta

2011-04-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

It's heavenly. Slightly hot. Slightly sweet.
Whole Wheat. Healthy.

??????????????????

2011-04-27T21:26:00.000-07:00

What do you do if you have 5 children on Earth....5 in Heaven...don't use protection because you have been convicted that your womb is the Lord's to do w/whatever He decides fit...

...struggle w/fearing pregnancy...

struggle w/ fearing loss of pregnancy...

have adopted....

have a heart for adoption.....

...have no immediate leanings towards adoption.....

...have intimate martial relations....

...haven't been pregnant in years...

and have a name chosen for your next child...boy or girl....same name either or. Male or female...same name.

????????????????????????

Go to the River

2011-04-27T17:55:00.000-07:00

A big "thank you" to Crunchy Christine.

1/2 of 16

2011-04-27T17:02:00.000-07:00

Two Reading Lessons & two Math Lessons today. 1 episode of the Waltons....so that's History/Social Studies. She made her own Chicken Salad lunch...good old Home Ec.... while I tackled the master closet during a 200someodd shot Engagement Photo Shoot upload.
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What's 1/2 of 16?

Me: Who needs math manipulatives when you have hangers?

Brad: That's what I say.

Trusting

2011-04-26T18:22:00.001-07:00

UPDATE:

Trusting between panic attacks.
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Everyone keeps on asking us what we are doing and when we are doing it.

Our answer has been and continues to be..... "Preparing."

For what exactly? We will let you know as soon as we do.

It's so great though...cuz we have a peace about where we are not supposed to be. So at least that's something.

And what I mean by that is....The Lord is so wonderful in showing us step by step what He would have us do. Just because we can't see beyond our noses or 8 weeks out or the forest for the trees doesn't mean a darn thing as far as He's concerned.

It would be really nice if what we think might come to pass...comes to pass...but then again....whatever He has for us is good and better than whatever we can think up.

Trusting.

Happy Flower Designs

2011-04-23T08:02:00.001-07:00

Super cute Leather Debit/Credit Card Holder. Also fits small IPods. She's CUSTOM making them to any size.

Jemima is making some really cute things lately. She takes SPECIAL ORDERS :)

Good Friday.... By His Wounds

2011-04-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

Hey Cuz

2011-04-20T21:04:00.000-07:00

Meet Troi Lowery

2011-04-13T08:10:00.001-07:00

Meet Troi Lowery from Dead Rabbit Pictures on Vimeo.

Brothers

2011-04-13T07:53:00.000-07:00

Growing up...my brother and I were best friends. I hope and pray these boys stay close as time progresses. Better yet...it is my prayer that their affections for one another grow deeper over time.

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity"
Proverbs 17:17

Time Out

2011-04-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

Apparently they were being sassy. Hysterical.

Family Bed

2011-04-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

I was sorting through a box of old photos...when I came across this one.

Prepare

2011-04-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

What do you do when the Lord tells you to do something that really makes no earthly sense at all?

That's what He has done w/ us. We are hearing very clearly (though not audibly LOL!) one word... over and over again.

"Prepare."

So we are preparing. Have been for a bit. Spiritually, emotionally and physically. We continue to do so.

For what, you might ask?

Who the heck knows for sure???????? We think we know...but we don't really know.

I have been pleading with the Lord for clarity....even asked my facebook friends to pray for it. And now I am asking you, my blog friends to pray whenever the Lord brings us to mind.

Maybe He gave me a hint of something today? Maybe this is a bit of encouragement directly from Him, my loving father?

I know of no other way in which to interpret this message...which spoke to my heart...just as it was beginning to fail.

2011-04-07T07:19:00.001-07:00

Target Practice

2011-04-06T22:06:00.000-07:00

What target are you aiming at?

Trying to work that out over here. Day by day. Hour by hour. Moment by moment.

Psalm 127:5

Big 44

2011-04-06T21:43:00.000-07:00

Ada, Nica, and Evelyn Johnson had Zion too pooped to party. They were landing in Florida and she was landing in LALALALALA Land.

The boys went to some ridiculous concert in LA w/their friends but made it home to the desert in time for dessert.

BIG 95

2011-04-06T20:21:00.001-07:00

Aunt Florence had a Birthday!

btw...Yoko Ono.....I mean Nana..... has on the super cool shades due to an eye infection.

Stand By Me

2011-04-03T06:51:00.001-07:00

Stand By Me had just been released..when Bradley and I met.

What a loving Father we have...to have our paths cross so young in life. Although we did not come together in a Godly manner...the Lord worked it all together for good. He is such a gracious Redeemer.

WOW! Time really does fly.

Elijah Stone

2011-03-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

Remember this?

Well.......say "hello" to Elijah Stone.

Weeping while doing the Happy Dance.

2011-03-28T16:55:00.000-07:00

Sesame Salmon

2011-03-28T16:21:00.001-07:00

Nothing fancy. Costco frozen....w/baby asparagus....which btw ladies....is great for bloating.

Re-Painting

2011-03-28T16:17:00.000-07:00

Painting things black over here.

Lisa, look at the difference in the magazine rack you passed on to me......it's a toilet paper holder now! A NEW creation!!!!!!!!!!

"Christian Psychology"

2011-03-26T06:59:00.000-07:00

So Jeni and I just might have the same brain. Just about every time she blogs about something over on her blog...I say to myself, "EXACTLY!"

So here I am sharing her thoughts on John MacArthur's thoughts on "Christian Psychology" cuz I share the same thoughts.

More Glamour Kills

2011-03-25T06:52:00.000-07:00

A new set of images are up.

I always knew Mcabe was cute...but I didn't realize HOW cute until recently :)

http://dawngreggphotography.blogspot.com

2011-03-20T21:28:00.001-07:00

Joy. Pure joy. Joyous. Joyeux.

Vintage Folding Chairs

2011-03-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

I want some vintage folding chairs like these...but I don't want to pay $115/each for them. Anybody have any connections they can hook me up with?

The Bungalow ones are imported from India. My google searches are turning up कुछ नहीं

Bryan Sheffield...Bikinis & Tsunamis

2011-03-20T14:55:00.000-07:00

Bryan Sheffield is featuring our skinny red head over on his site. In a bathing suit nonetheless.

This new post reminded me of an old post of mine.

Weird side note...the mention of a tsunami...especially since the ongoing heartbreak in Japan.

Glamour Kills

2011-03-17T20:53:00.000-07:00

Take a look at Mcabe Justus in the LOOK BOOK.

Tug of War

2011-03-16T18:48:00.000-07:00

Jeni's post this week is so spot on. Thought I'd share.

Too tired right now to discuss what "callings" I set aside to be a mother to my children/blessings.
I will though...soon.

My heart really went out to this woman as I watched her Today show interview. So blinded. So deluded. So convinced.

Don't hate me cuz this sounds judgmental.

JJ Heller Control

2011-03-08T18:47:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite moments during the recent Control video shoot was when I realized exactly how exhausted JJ....a mother of a toddler w/another on the way was. It was late into the evening.

Bradley...being the perceptive man he is....rose to the occasion. He started in with an accent and jokes...lightening the mood & raising energy levels. Perfect timing...for the performance footage.

A director's wisdom.

A song about giving up control.

If we do not...He will certainly take it from us....rest assured.

Mirror Mirror

2011-03-08T16:51:00.000-08:00

Do you have kids who have gotten drunk, worshipped themselves, worshipped others, lied, cheated, stole (or is it stolen?)...been puffed up w/pride, been lazy sluggards, smoked cigarettes or pot, gossiped, pushed away, walked around like white-washed tombs or peacocks, ignored, spit in the face of, or scoffed?

Us too.

It's like a mirror.

Sometimes I hate mirrors.

Show Me the $$$$$$$

2011-03-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

And here we go.

Please keep Mcabe in your prayers as his face is plastered here & there.

The Lord is so wise. You wanna know how I know?

He either caused or allowed a big honkin' zit to pop out right in the middle of this stunning boy's forehead this very week.

Cessation

2011-03-07T19:53:00.000-08:00

So this week I arrived at a friend's home to find that she had cooked us a meal. Out of the blue. No reason other than that we are loved.

Also this week, we received in the mail an original work of art by Steve Hickok. He wanted to bless us. To encourage us us as artists. The Lord wanted him to send Cessation to us so he did. That's all.

What friends we have!

Harry

2011-03-07T19:11:00.001-08:00

Braverijah and Mcabe are busy working on Harry, written by Tucker Reynolds.

They leave early in the morning. They come home late at night.

I'm confident that it's an education that they are getting in between and amongst their dreams.

2011-03-01T17:17:00.001-08:00

Music Video

2011-03-01T14:54:00.000-08:00

So there is this super talented songwriting couple who asked us to help produce their newest music video. It was fun coming up with a concept for the storyline and collaborating with them as we worked out the details. I love how organic the artistic process is. Bradley had a great time directing....

.... and as far as I am concerned..... it was EXHAUSTING serving as writer, producer, wardrobe girl...casting director...and first AD...but lots of fun.

(Glad it's not a full time gig.)

Now Brad gets to edit...which is a whole other art in itself.

John Moessner, the cinematographer was awesome and we're hoping to work with him again.

Low budget...so lots of people donated their time and talents.

We are thankful to those who came out and pulled together to support us.

Check my JJ smugmug gallery for a glimpse behind the scenes.

Also, here.

Job 37:6

2011-02-27T06:47:00.000-08:00

We had a major spiritual breakthrough last night. Sin battled to the ground. Strongholds crumbled. Patience is a good thing and so is communication.

While we slept...more peacefully than we have in a long time...an unexpected blanket covered us as we lay.

As she ran downstairs to wake-up her sisters so they could go play in our version of a winterwonderland....I stopped Zion in her tracks.

"Zion, do you realize that the Lord did two miracles last night...the family victory and snow!

She smiled so big and came back for a deep deep hug. That's when she whispered in my ear, "He washed us white as snow."

Be still my heart.

"He says to the snow, 'Fall on the earth,' and to the rain shower, 'Be a mighty downpour."
Job 37:6

2011-02-26T11:44:00.001-08:00

They are acting all shy for the camera...but believe me....it's an act. These boys are hardcore salesmen.
This is not a post about YARD SALES.

It is a post about stewardship and inspiring dreams.

We have a whole bunch of stuff that we do not need lying around. Stuff other people would want lying around their homes.

The more we sell....the more we realize how little we need.

____________________________

Hopefully this is a lesson we've passed down to our kids.

The boys are selling stuff to help FUND a film. Written by Tucker Audie. Directed by Brave. Starring Mcabe.

2011-02-26T11:40:00.000-08:00

I suppose you could call it MATH (Zion explained in detail the Large-Medium-Small phenomenon. Or...ART (Good color choices.) Or FREE PLAY.

I call it PLAYDOUGH DISTRACTION TIME while Mommy is super busy with other things.

2011-02-25T17:26:00.000-08:00

When your table runner gets a candle scorch mark on it...that cannot be remedied....add buttons for camouflage.

Scottsdale Moms Blog Part 3

2011-02-24T06:25:00.000-08:00

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

Proverbs 1:7

Scottsdale Moms Blog Part 2

2011-02-23T06:24:00.001-08:00

Isn't it funny how so many questions come up when we are looking for answers?

2011-02-22T17:50:00.000-08:00

As I sat today w/ moms in the sunshine at a park while my girls were running around playing w/other girls....it hit me that the Lord has a very specific purpose for my life...that he is sovereign....and that He is orchestrating events and unfolding them in time and space.

I know that I know that I know that He uses our experiences to minister to others. I am confident that He desires for us to live transparently before our community.

Why else would He give us or allow us these experiences?

28 Day Cleanse UPDATE

2011-02-22T15:33:00.000-08:00

I have not cheated once and I have 3 days to go. I have been SUPER committed.

Not thrilled with the results. Not worth the $$$$$$$$$$.

Asking for a refund. I am way too thrifty to pay for ehhhhhh.

Cramps...so I am having a few glasses of red wine. Right about now I could care less about the sugar content.

Scottsdale Moms Blog Part 1

2011-02-22T06:14:00.000-08:00

I'm guest blogging for the next few days over at Scottsdale Moms. We're talking about home-education.

Music Video Shoot

2011-02-18T12:58:00.000-08:00

Excitement is building as we prepare to shoot a music video next week for a very talented singer songwriting duo. Guess who?

Lots of preparation. So many details.

The Technicolors

2011-02-18T08:33:00.001-08:00

A fun impromptu video by the boys.

I love the lighting.

Guerrilla Filmmaking 101
Make use of what's at your disposal. In this case, car headlights.

Boobies and Hinies

2011-02-15T14:04:00.000-08:00

An image from the Patrick Demarchelier shoot.

Yes...that's a vintage Chanel sequined jacket and...

...yes...the guy on the right's hairline does start towards the rear 1/3 of his head. Freaky.

Quick questions...

If we are sending our kids in to Africa or Papua New Guinea, the South of France or Rio de Janeiro ...we'd be smart to discuss culture variants with them ahead of time, right? They might be seeing things they've never seen before. Like barely clothed or unclothed populations...... or entire families on nude beaches for instance.

Same goes for the island of Manhattan, right?

Boobies and hinies are boobies hinies wherever they appear.

Is it possible to be in the presence of American boobies and hinies devoid of sexual association?

I think so.

But, then again I was raised in a culture like that so it doesn't seem odd to me.
____________________

For some, proximity like this might be a huge struggle. A temptation to be avoided at all costs.
For others...not so much. Thank the good Lord that there are people who are able to minister to those in adult entertainment circles...and to ladies and men & boys and girls of the night.

____________________

It's a matter of the heart.

Be in the world not of it.

Love the Lord your God and love people.

I hope to be raising young men who know how to avert their eyes when necessary and look upon all cultures they encounter as those in need of redeeming love.

From our talks with the boys about stuff like this...I get a clearer picture of how enormously HUMONGOUS God is.

I am convinced more than ever that He does not fit into a box.

2011-02-15T10:05:00.000-08:00

Brilliance.

2011-02-10T21:51:00.001-08:00

Don't go out an buy silver polish. Cheap old Baking Soda works really well and most everyone already has a box in their fridge.

It's also an inexpensive way to keep your teeth white. Don't use it more than once/week though...I asked the dentist.

And, it makes for a fantastic exfoliant. Simple add water to make a paste and massage into your skin for 2 minutes or so. Rinse.
_____________________

I am still blown away each time I realize all the ways that the Lord has already provided.

The LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast desert. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything.
Deuteronomy 2:7

Italian Flag Whole Wheat Shells

2011-02-10T21:46:00.000-08:00

Super easy. Super cheap.

1 lb whole wheat pasta (salt the water)
1 bag frozen baby peas (throw them in w/the pasta the last two minutes)
halved cherry tomatoes
fresh cubed mozzarella
drizzle of olive oil
garlic powder to taste
cracked pepper to taste