What to do about a grumpy little sister

Here's our recent dilemma...

Gemma gets pretty testy with her well intentioned (well, most of the time) brother. For instance, this morning Zane was trying to take something from Gemma that she was not supposed to have. He went over to her and grabbed it from her. She screamed at him and tried to pinch his arm. Zane in turn looked at his Dad, in dismay, like, I'm just trying to help?!

So, Dad and I offer up some advice...

Bryce says, "Zane, thank you for trying to help, but let Mommy or Daddy take things away from her. If it's an emergency, tell her 'no no, Gemma' (this is what we say to her) and gently take the item away."

I say, "or Zane, offer her a toy in exchange for the item you are taking from her, and then she won't get so mad, because you're giving her something else to play with."

Zane stops to contemplate all of the given options.

He then very seriously says, "or we could just put her outside."

Laughter ensues. Admittedly, I have thought of this option. However, this is not very realistic. So, I think we'll keep working on this one. :-)

1st Day of School

The day has finally arrived. We, well I guess just Zane, has been ready to go for weeks. The beginning of another school year. He was extra excited this morning about his new full size backpack. Here he is, ready to roll.

And here's the backpack. It has boot prints on it.

Here are the pics from his first day of preschool last year. I can't believe how little he looks! My how things change in a short amount of time.

Happy Heart

I have been busy teaching Zane to have a happy heart and what actions reflect a happy heart. Ironically, as I have been so devoted to stay on top of this attitude in him, Satan has crept in and stolen my happy heart.

It is so frustrating to me, to be so easily snared by sin.

A sweet friend asked me a question today and as I tried to impart wisdom, it was as if the Lord was speaking the words for me and yet to me at the same time. What came out of my mouth, was exactly what I needed to hear and be applying in my home. Humbling...

Father, forgive me for my attitude. Let my words and actions be filled with joy from you. Give me a happy heart. Thank you for your correction and guard my heart from evil.

"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me."
Psalm 51:10-12

Pig Tails

Mowing

Zane had a good time with Dad. Here's the picture to prove it.

Turn the volume way up. This is GREAT!

Sweet Fellowship

The ladies in my small group came over for the evening this week. It was such a sweet time of refreshing fellowship! Here is the table I had ready for them...



Do you see the gladiolus?! That arrangement cost me $3.00!! Dillons had received a large shipment and was selling 7 stalks for $1.50. I couldn't believe it! What a special treat to decorate the table. Thank you God!



Strawberries and dark chocolate cups.



Homemade scones and lemon curd.



Grapes



Phyllo baskets with cream cheese and jelly (orange & jalapeno).

I think the fact that I actually took pictures of all the food is a sign that I enjoy food way too much. Maybe I should work on that...