Forgiveness

I was recently hurt by some people I love dearly. When it happened, my chest physically ached. I cried. I was also very angry at them. But these people do not even know how deeply hurt and disappointed their words made me feel.

Last Sunday we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus. Jesus suffered and died on the cross for the fogiveness of my sins. I need to forgive the people who hurt me ... "and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us" ...

One of my favorite songs:

Amazing Love

Words & Music by Billy James Foote©1997 worshiptogether.com Songs / Administered by EMI Christian Music Publishing

I’m forgiven because You were forsaken.

I’m accepted. You were condemned.
I’m alive and well, Your Spirit is within me

Because You died and rose again.
Amazing love, how can it be

That you, my King would die for me?
Amazing love, I know it’s true:

It’s my joy to honor you.

In all I do I honor You.
You are my King.

You are my King.

Jesus, You are my King.

Jesus, You are my King.

Marlys to the Rescue

Joe and I were having trouble figuring out his math assignment. His school was on spring break so we couldn't contact his teachers. So if Joe's school was on spring break you might be wondering why Joe was doing school work. Well, let's just say he made some choices earlier in the month that resulted in his forfeiting his spring break. Anyway, my niece just so happens to LOVE math. She came over after school and helped Joe with his math. She said they are working on the same stuff in her math class right now. I don't understand why a 7th grader would be doing what an 11th grader is doing. So, it was Marlys to the rescue and no more math troubles ... until our next assignment.

Technical Difficulties ...

First my camera was having a little problem. Finally figured that out. Then, my internet service was suspended! Felt like I had been naughty and had my internet privileges taken away. What happened was the card I use for billing each month expired. Even though I received a new one and activated it immediately, my ISP didn't get their payment. They don't like that. Everything is A-OK now and my camera and internet are up and working.

Monday

Easter was nice. Saturday after work the boys and I went to church to help set up for Easter breakfast. Saturday night we had dinner with my brother and his family. Since I had to work Easter Sunday, the boys' dad took them to church. They had to help serve Easter Breakfast at 7:30.
It's a fundraiser for bible campers. Then Joe had to acolyte at the 10:00 service. It was his first time. He said he liked it. Stinks when I have to work. I miss out on all these things.

Even though we're still getting flurries I can finally tell spring is on the way. Robins are in the trees. Day light is longer.

He is Risen

He Is Risen Indeed

H A L L E L U J A H

Holy Saturday

In Latin, Sabbatum Sanctum, the "day of the entombed Christ"

World Down Syndrome Day

We Celebrate This Day in Honor of Our Friends

Ruby Z & Amanda M

3-21 is the chosen date, because people with Down Syndrome have 3 of the 21st chromosome! The Down Syndrome Creed
My face may be different but my feelings are the same. I laugh and I cry and take pride in my gains. I was sent here among you to teach you to love, as God in the heavens looks down from above. To Him, I'm no different His love knows no bounds; It's those here among you in the cities and towns, that judge me by standards that man has imparted, but this family I've chosen, will help me get started. For I'm one of the children so special and few, that came here to learn the same lessons as you. That love is acceptance, it must come from the heart; we all have the same purpose, though not the same start. The Lord gave me life to live and embrace, and I'll do it as you do, but at my own pace.

~author unknown~

Good Friday

Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus at Calvary.

Maundy Thursday

On this day four events are commemorated: the washing of the feet of the Disciples by Jesus Christ, the institution of the Mystery of the Holy Eucharist at the Last Supper, the agony of Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, the betrayal of Christ by Judas Iscariot.

Strike!

We joined other students and parents from iQAcademy at the bowling alley tonight. Had a few strikes, lots of gutter balls and even more laughs. The best thing? Ian met some new friends.

Q: What's the difference between Wisconsin temperatures and our bowling scores?

A: Not much.

Strike or Gutter Ball ?

Eyeing up the pins like a pro.

Road Trip

Joe with his middle school teachers at Wisconsin Connections Academy

Joe's school hosted a "Road Trip". Students and families were invited to come to the building where the teachers are based. There was a book fair going on and it was also picture day. It was great to see where the teachers sit. They have pictures of their students posted on their walls. They joked that if a student is being disruptive in class all they have to do is turn that student's picture over and the problem is solved. LOL. Many people think that with virtual schooling we must not have any, or limited contact with the teachers. I must admit, it was definitely something I was concerned about before enrolling in virtual school. But, I have found quite the opposite to be true. The teachers are available via phone and e-mail during regular business hours, or live-session (specific hours). The communication has been excellent. We have always been able to reach someone for help. Plus, the homeroom teacher gives me a call every 2 weeks just to check in. We use that time to go over any questions or concerns. Usually it ends up being just a nice friendly chat as we have already had our issues addressed. It's amazing how well the students get to know their "virtual" teachers and vice-versa. In addition to getting to know the teachers there are many opportunities for students to get together for fieldtrips and other fun stuff. There are many events scheduled throughout the year all over the state. There is usally an event scheduled somewhere near you. Many, many families are benefiting from this type of education. I pray it remains an option for those who need it.

How Do You Spell Fun?

S - C - R - A - B - B - L - E

What else is there to do on a boring Sunday night in Wisconsin -- other than Scrabble! This week's winner is Mom. Ian came in second with Joe close behind in third. It's amazing how many creative spellings you can come up with for common words. Since when is "quit" spelled "q - i - t".

First you have to get your snacks ready. Without snacks what would you do when it's not your turn.

Then you sit back and admire the beautiful word maze you created.

F-U-N

Rain or Shine You're a Friend of Mine

Ian met his friend "K" a few years ago at an autism group. They have remained friends since then. Recently "K" was diagnosed with cancer and is currently going through chemotherapy. Don't you just love her funky hat? Today Ian and I went to stay with "K" while the rest of her family got out of the house for a while. Cabin Fever! Ian and "K" had a great time playing Star Wars and board games. "K" is a very special friend.

School Days

Ahh, the joys of virtual schooling.

Here's Joe hard at work on the laptop in his "organized" room.
And look at Ian - another stressful day of English. Boy, sitting in that La-Z-Boy recliner can be grueling!
This is what Wally does while the boys are working on their school work. He makes sure they stay on task ... in between his naps.

Scrappin'

I spent the weekend scrapbooking with some friends at a local hotel. Had a lot of fun. I'm just an amateur yet but slowly getting better. It's great to preserve those photos and memories for generations to come. Since scrapbooking is all about pictures, you must be wondering why I don't have any posted. Well, could it be because I forgot my camera? Nope. How about I remembered my camera but forgot to put the memory card in it? Yep, that's it.

Joe and Ian spent the weekend with Dad in Rockford. Poor Wally was lonely. I came home during the day to let him out but he's got this thing lately where he won't go outside in icky weather or ... just being stubborn!