just thoughts

So we have been back in the swing of things. J is working a lot again. And I have come to realize; it's been 4 years since we, ok I, have been "single mom" mode. You can give it as many excuses as you want....new town, new church, now we're schooling with 4, plus schooling over the summer because we took 2 months of to move... But when 5:30 comes around I am out of steam. the kids don't get to bed on time and I am too tired to take some time alone after they do go down. the kids are snipping at each other. the only one that seems to have a gentle spirit is J when he is home. it's like total reverse. Last Sunday he went to church with us in the morning, then back to work till 7, then back home in time for a movie on the football field at our church. We were a mess and he was the one smoothing all our nerves so we could enjoy the evening! I could see it on his face,"have I entered the Twilight Zone!"
Then it comes to a head. Yesterday we had a bible time and scriptures. Well, remember how you don't move on to a new daily verse until everyone can say it? (You say a weekly and a monthly too so you're not just bored with one every morning) Anywho- Little E was only missing one word in Colossians 3:12. we started that one in TX. He could say, " Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness humility, .........., and patience." So we all say it together then we would give him a chance to say it by himself at his request and no matter how many visuals we gave, he couldn't get it. We would all sit on the edge of our seats, as it has become a real team effort at this point. Even mommy was ready to move on for sanity's sake. we have never lost patience with him because it's just so cute hearing him try and we all giggle when he says it so boldly and big eyed. Well... Yesterday he got it! All that was missing was "gentleness" He said the whole thing. And we all rejoiced when he said...kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." I thought FINALLY! he got it! He finally remembered GENTLENESS! .................have you ever heard the Lord cough under his breathe? You know; clear his throat and nudge your side. Well I did. He was letting me know ever so gently, that was my problem. I was lacking gentleness in all matters. Now this is not something I can manufacture. This is a real need for Him to fill. What was my verse to pray for today? I'm glad you asked. John 15:16 it's Jesus talking about whatever you need ask in his name and He will gladly give it to you so you can bear spiritual fruit that will last!
Ha ha. I don't even think I asked for it gently. I was like a desperate woman at the end of her rope!
Do I believe He is going to begin this transformation?
Absolutely.
Is it gonna include a lot of work and surrender on my part?
Absolutely.
Will it be worth it at the end of it all?
Absolutely.

I leave you with this incredible verse Psalm 145:18

"It's Friday! Field-trip Day"

OK Here are the pics from Joshua Tree National Park. Some from our field trip, others from a day with daddy. It is so wonderful to have this park 10 minutes away! I was worried about having nature walks we would really enjoy. Not anymore! They could climb all day! God is Good!

Announcing our first Junior Ranger in the Martinez Family! You have to fill out a guide book and go on a guided tour and then pledge to take care of the park to the best of her ability. Very Serious stuff. Then she had a little fun and added a few perks for mom. Like Always obey my parents, get along with my brothers, always finish my schoolwork.... She is so excited she wears her badge even on her pj's! So proud of our Junior Ranger!