Another "Ketchup" Post

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward." ~ Matthew 6: 1- 34 (ESV)

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent as many already know.  I know not all religions "practice" or emphasize Lent.  I remember it being part of my childhood because, although I grew up Protestant, my grandfather was Catholic.  "Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, and moderation and spiritual discipline.  The purpose is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ--His suffering and His sacrifice, His life, death, burial and resurrection." (About.com  Christianity)  I've read where people are spending more time in Bible study, keeping a journal on insights from devotionals revolving around the 40 days of Lent, etc.  I think it is great.  However, shouldn't we be this diligent with our time with God every day?  It certainly gave me a little more to think about as I read my first devotional yesterday.  Just a thought.

My crew and I have been up to lots over the past week.  Sickness entered the house yet again, but I am grateful that it didn't last too long.  I am also thankful for the few days of higher temperatures so that I could open the windows and hopefully bid the germs farewell.  

Kids at school have been eagerly learning about fractions.  I love teaching fractions even though it can be difficult for some students to grasp some of the concepts.  I think I enjoy the most b/c we eat a lot during this unit of study.

The fourth graders went to the symphony last month.  Mr. McIntosh texted me to let me know he had just confiscated a purpose from the student sitting NEXT to him b/c she was having a pocketbook picnic complete with candy and a Slim Jim.  I died laughing.  Really?  A Slim Jim?  Obviously she didn't realize how strong the smell of those things are.  And I must teach her how to fly under the radar.  You never, never, never sit NEXT to the teacher if you plan on having a pocketbook picnic!

This is my "death march" (just kidding) every morning.  My room is at the far end of this hall.

Sometimes I think this should read "Entering the Twilight Zone"...I really am teasing...I work with a really fun group of teachers who have a heart for children...The students are pretty fun too...HA!

Some student work that Jenn and I put up outside my door

The Roosters have started baseball.  They are doing Coaches Pitch this season.  (John Ryan wasn't in the mood for a photo shoot, so Nick is my only model for the blog today.)  

My big Rooster got his first job which I'll write about in another post!!  Congratulations, Blake!  I'm proud of you for landing one at sixteen!!

I got a picture of John Ryan while sleeping.  I just love watching my kids sleep.

Monday was Dr. Seuss Day and Nick brought home this picture of The Cat in the Hat.  I think he did a great job for a six-year-old.  It is just one of those pictures that when you look at it it sort of makes your eyes hurt, ya know?  Something about the lack of symmetry. (I wonder if he used Mardi Gras colors on purpose??)

Met the Colonel out at McCrady to have our ID made.  I would have never imagined the Colonel being in the military full-time.  He took a military course in college and was hooked.  I remember the day he told me he had decided he was going to go the Officer route through college and get commissioned.  I literally turned around and walked off from him.  However, I got used to the idea and he is really awesome at his job.  He loves it and enjoys going to work everyday.  I've managed to adjust to being a military wife over the years; however, I must admit that it wasn't something that came easy for me as I am painfully shy.

Flowers for the den.  I usually put the flowers the Colonel brings me home on the kitchen table.  I decided to put these in the den to add some spring cheer to our sitting area.

And the neighborhood is starting to come alive with a few signs of spring

(Picture copied from "Dear Lillie" blog)

And everyday I am thankful that my God strengthens me and helps me and upholds me with His righteous right hand (paraphrase Isaiah 41: 10 ~ One of my favorite verses).