| Page 125

Meekness in Every Area

Valerie Basham

March 15, 2010

I’m finding that meekness is an area in which I must work at, but not just relating to homeschooling. I must use meekness whenever I hear or read something with which I disagree. I have read various blogs that mention doctrine or spiritual topics. I have even agreed with many of the articles I read. However, occasionally, I might see one statement in which the author twists scripture or states his or her opinion or presupposed idea. That really gets to me! I find myself wanting to shoot off a comment or email that lines out the offender. I am the member of several discussion boards, but honestly, I don’t say much.(Gasp!) I know that if I get involved and start spilling my guts, I am opening myself up for criticism. Once I start getting criticized, maintaining a meek and quiet spirit will be much more difficult, because I will want to defend myself. I might even get angry.

I can even take that a step farther. I have often wanted to use my little blog here as a “correct everyone with whom I disagree” kind of place. I have considered that actually commenting on a person’s blog or facebook page might be too confrontational, so I’ll just state my feelings on my blog! But then, the Holy Spirit convicts me that this is wrong. He can take care of those who misuse Scripture better than I ever could. He reminds me that my goal here is to simply share my life and the lessons the Lord is teaching me. I want to confide in you, the reader, as one of my closest friends, without fear of criticism. I know that if I start sowing criticism, that is exactly what I will reap. I must avoid that spirit at all costs and do my best to use my keyboard to edify, not to tear down.

Having a meek and quiet spirit while homeschooling – especially if I am feeling sick – is a challenge indeed. But I’m learning that maintaining a meek and quiet spirit extends far beyond the realm of homeschooling. It reaches into every area of my life, even areas that I hadn’t thought of before.

Valerie

My Meekness Project

Valerie Basham

no comments

March 10, 2010

Peter 3:4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

I have recently begun a Bible study entitledHomeschooling with a Meek and Quiet Spiritby Teri Maxwell. I have completed one chapter and am thoroughly under conviction. I cannot say that it is Mrs. Maxwell who is convicting me, because it isn’t. The Holy Spirit is the One who began this construction work, and it began long before I ever visited the Maxwell’s website, much less cracked their book open. How do I know? Well, because it was the Holy Spirit that led me to search for biblical help on this issue in the beginning, and it is the Bible verses I’ve been reading that are now hammering away on me.

I would need help with meekness even if I didn’t homeschool. I’m naturally loud and determined (that’s a fancy word for “strong willed”). I am that way as a wife, mother and friend. Being a homeschooling mom, however, makes this lack of meekness very obvious. Homeschooling is the fire that brings up this dross in my life, just like a fire does to gold or silver (not that I am saying I am either of those!). Being with my children day in and day out – 24/7 – and thereby trying to meet their needs constantly, highlights spiritual weaknesses that I might otherwise miss. I am hoping that by not only doing this study on my own, but also by journaling it here, I might further impress these truths upon my own heart. I hope you don’t mind walking this road with me. I am calling this my “Meekness Project”, and believe me, it will never end. Since I am robed in this thing we call “flesh”, I will battle with this for the rest of my life. However, I hope that through this journey I can become more aware of my failings and make the necessary corrections that much faster.

One thing I noticed while searching for verses on meekness was the definition. The Greek definition is equal to gentleness; humble. I often hear preachers say it means “power in restraint” and that makes sense to me. For instance, a Pastor exercises meekness when, after being insulted or criticized to his face by a church member, he refuses to go to the pulpit and tell his side of things and have the person voted out of the church. He could use his power to do this, or to try to do it, but it probably isn’t the wise way to handle the situation. Meekness – the act of restraining himself, and preaching the message from the Lord, is the best way. Likewise, in my daily life, I can re-act to situations by getting angry, yelling, enforcing some kind of punishment on my children just because they spilled their milk at breakfast, or I can take a deep breath, say “It’s okay, just be careful next time.” and clean it up. One method upsets everyone – making me angry, and they, tearful, the other just deals with the problem keeping all of our hearts intact. And that, my dear, kind, friend-who-won’t-cast-judgment-on-me, is what I’m dealing with. Fighting that desire to be un-meek (is that a word?) and loud in my daily life. I do not like the strife that the un-meek spirit gives me, but I cannot be meek without supernatural help.

In doing my reading on meekness in God’s Word, I found this verse to be interesting:

Col. 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering,

We, as children of God, are to “put on” meekness. It is a choice that I must make. Meekness is famously known as part of the nine-fold fruit of the Spirit, listed in Gal. 5:22-23. As a youngster, I often confused the “fruit of the Spirit” as something we just are once we are saved. You know, others could just automatically start seeing these traits in believers, once they became believers. I have learned that is not so, Paul tells us in this verse that these traits, some of which are listed in Galatians, are choices we make.

I’ve had men and ladies alike confront me in very inappropriate ways in public. I’ve been criticized, judged and given advice I didn’t seek when I was least prepared for such words. Yet, by the grace of God, I responded as meekly as I could. I made the decision to respond rightly. Yet, sadly, when I’m around those who mean the most to me, my own family, I do not often choose the meek response. I want to change this.

The last question in chapter one is “List five of your meek and quiet spirit robbers…” It seems that some of my friends think I am the one who “has it all together all the time. ” I don’t know how in the world they came to such a conclusion, since (a) they know me for heaven’s sake, and (b) I am painfully transparent on this blog. But, for whatever reason, they have come to believe this false notion. I am here to be real and nothing but real. Therefore, I am listing my five “meek and quiet spirit robbers” here.

1. Getting up too late.
This has been a weakness since December, when I became so ill. I am now trying to break this habit, although doing so will absolutely tear my heart out. (Goodbye extra two hours of sleep!)
2. Being disorganized.
While I am in no way an OCD, I do tend to stress about organization. As a homeschooling mom with four children and one on the way, my thought process is “Can you ever be too organized?” My conclusion? No. I want to be balanced: I want to be organized, but not allow disorganization to steal my meek and quiet spirit….when I get one, that is.
3. Constant interruptions.
I homeschool. I have a toddler – and a baby coming! Interruptions happen so frequently that I expect them. So, technically, is that an interruption? Oh, never mind. Anyway, the point is that I don’t stop and think, I just re-act. This can cause high blood pressure when allowed to go on for days, and…okay, let’s be real: for years!
4. The bad attitude of those around me.
We aren’t a perfect family. We all have our bad days, and soon, we’ll be able to be on a rotating schedule! That’s right, we’ll have one person to have a bad day for each day of the week! I cannot control the attitudes of others, only my own. I am going to have to seek the Lord’s help as I put up with the irritations that others in my family feel, as well as those I feel. Wow…that’s going to be hard.
5. My own impatience with others.
I have my own expectations that I would like others to meet and, when they aren’t met, I can get grouchy. That’s bad.

As you can see, I have my work cut out for me. (sweating) I’m not looking forward to making any of these changes. It will be painful to cut out that which I’m in the habit of doing easily, and begin doing that which I would like to just forget. To be honest, I’d rather do Denise Austin’s Sizzler workout three times a day than attempt this “spiritual workout”. I’m so thankful that He will empower me to do better through His word and prayer. I’m comforted by 2 Cor. 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

You see, my weakness is meekness! It is one of my many infirmities, but with Christ, I will have the grace I need to keep pressing onward and see improvement during this time of spiritual construction.

Valerie

Lessons I’m Learning

Valerie Basham

no comments

March 5, 2010

I’ve often heard that the greatest ability is dependability, and the second greatest ability is teachability. But in my experience, I’ve discovered that a teachable person is a rarity. Teachability, by definition, means capable of being instructed, as a person; docile. A teachable person, however, isn’t just a smart person, it’s a person who is willing to listen to instruction. Finding a person who is indeed capable andwilling to be taught is hard to find. I would argue then, that perhaps teachability is the greatest ability, because a person who is teachable can be taught to be dependable.

I know how rare teachability is, not because I run around trying to teach people things, but because I find it hard to be teachable myself. I have also observed that others must struggle with the same thing as I have watched my husband try to teach and disciple people in the things of the Lord. Many people buck against him – but really it’s not he they disagree with, it’s God’s Word – because they feel they know the answer, or the right way to do things, etc. Since he is not in the habit of coercion, he can only leave them alone and go about his work.

When my husband and I started out our marriage and our life in ministry work twelve years ago, no one advised me about many things in marriage or ministry. No one warned me about the terrible homesickness I would feel. No one taught me how to have an argument – yes, there’s an art to this! No one taught me about how to show love to my new husband. I’m pretty sure no one taught him these things either. Likewise, no one told me how lonely the ministry could be. No one taught me how to take criticism, and when to just ignore it. No one explained that in the ministry, it could take years for you to gain respect and love from the people you lead. I suppose no one told me these things because they might have thought it would discourage a young person. Whatever the reason, I know they meant well, but still, I’ve had to learn many lessons the hard way! My Dad told me at graduation, “You’ve completed high school, but now you enter the school of hard knocks.” That’s another name for “life” and when you graduate from life, it’s all over. I’m trying to learn, and I’m trying to be teachable. But I have missed some lessons and even failed a few. The good news is, my Teacher is perfect and very patient with me!

So, here are some lessons I’ve learned, some willingly and some…not so willingly. 🙂

#1 Expect Christians to act like sinners.

After all, that’s what we all are! However, there might be a tendency to expect them to be holy and wonderful all the time. I thought that. I tried to be that way myself, but often failed. But it hurt deeply the first time I was treated wrong by a Christian. When I worked at a car dealership after high school, I often heard the salesmen curse, lie, bicker with one another over whose sale was whose, and so forth. But the first time I heard a Christian do these things seemed especially shocking and painful. The bottom line? Well, I do my best to be like Christ in every way, but I don’t expect my fellow church members to. If they do, it’s a delightful surprise! If not, I’m not destroyed by it.

#2 No matter where you are, you will have problems.

Early in my ministry life, when I encountered lesson #1, I thought the problem was my location. If I move to ______, then I won’t have this problem, or so my reasoning went. I would think, “We have Mrs So-and-So” here, but if we go (wherever) we won’t have to deal with her.” WRONG. Mrs. S0-and-So may not be where you go next, but her twin, Mrs. This-and-That, will be! So, if you think moving will solve problems, forget it. Problems are everywhere. They just have different names!

#3 Unsought advice is seldom heeded, and often resented.

Boy howdy! In the ministry, I get a lot of unsought advice, but that’s just how it is. The best thing I’ve learned to do is to grin and nod and move on. I’ve also learned that while it’s okay for others to advise me when I haven’t asked for it, it is NOT okay for me to give unsought advice to others. That usually causes problems, so I try to keep my mouth shut at all times and my opinions to myself. (Key word is *try*! 🙂 )

#4 My husband can only fix so many problems, so I shouldn’t complain to him.

My husband is a man (shocker), so he can take a lot of pressure as most men can. But even a man has his limits. It’s important that I take only certain problems to him, the rest belong with the Lord. (This is easier said than done.)

#5 I have a lot of influence on my husband.

Women are the weaker vessel, but we carry a lot of power. If a woman can make a man abdicate the throne of England, then certainly she can make him either blissfully happy or miserably sad. I choose to carry this power carefully, and use it to make my husband happy.

#6 The ministry feels like a supreme sacrifice at times, but compared to what Christ endured, it is nothing.

It’s very easy for me to get the “martyr” syndrome – to feel persecuted and alone – but it’s a false message. Christ endured far more than I ever will, even if I actually become a real martyr. After we’ve endured some harsh words from some people, or some un-just criticism, I usually cry to the Lord (literally) and He reminds me Who I am doing this for, and just what He did for me. It puts it all in perspective. He also brings someone to mind who has much bigger problems than whatever I am facing.

#7 Take criticism lightly. Oh, and praise, too.

Many people feel free to voice complaint and criticism about the pastor and his family. He preaches too long, his wife doesn’t do enough, his wife does too much, his kids wiggle in church and the list goes on and on. At the same time, there are many gracious and kind people in the church who love their pastor in tangible ways. They lavish him with praise, and perhaps gifts. However, just as the man of God (and his family) cannot let critical voices discourage the work, they must also not allow praise to take root in their heart. That leads to pride, which is dangerous territory to be on, indeed. I heard it said recently by a big name pastor that one should not pay much attention to applause. He said, “The ones who applaud the loudest are the least involved in the work.” That’s probably true.

These are just a few of the things I’m learning along the way as I grow in the Lord as a Christian, and as a ministry wife. I hope it helps to encourage any other young lady who is in ministry – or may be someday – to know that you are not alone. Others before you have faced trials specific to the ministry. They have survived by taking their problems to God, and taking God at His word. They have continued faithfully serving, not because they have the perfect church, or perfect people, or perfect anything, but simply because they face each day as it comes, all the while clinging to God’s Word.

I’ve had to remind myself, more than once, that the grass may look greener over there, but they have weeds, too. 🙂 And through each lesson I’ve learned, I’ve experienced God tenderness as He has dealt with me. He has shown me that while the ministry life isn’t a perfect life, it can certainly be happy one.

Valerie

Leslie Makes Me Laugh

Valerie Basham

no comments

January 19, 2010

No matter how sick or tired I may feel on any given day, nothing brightens my day more than my children. They all are so unique and talented. They are all joyful children. They each one possess different talents, but all share the ability to communicate well. I suppose I am biased, what mother isn’t?

I hope you enjoy this look at my Leslie Anne.

She made a little hideout behind our recliner!

You never know what you’ll find on a church’s property! Leslie found this part of an old bicycle. She is pushing it. Now, doesn’t that look like fun? Oh, and no, we don’t buy our kids many toys. You can see they’ve already been provided some excellent entertainment in old junk.

She loves her new Dora pajamas! Not sure what this pose is all about though.

Leslie did her own hair! I think it’s pigtails…but then maybe not. Her hair is very fine and won’t stay up very well. I haven’t gotten to enjoy the frilly hair bows on any of my girls. But at least I can have a good laugh when we try to fix it up!

She fell asleep reading this book, or trying to. I couldn’t resist snapping a photo. And yes, I fixed her head after I took the picture. It looks most uncomfortable.

The girls made an “ironing board” out of their rocking chair. Leslie’s hand is the iron. (Don’t try this, it really doesn’t work. NOT that I tried it myself or anything…)

Leslie at the Ozark Folk Center this past summer. She usually doesn’t stand still long enough to take a photo! She looks as though she’s growing right before my very eyes.

Leslie posing with my Mom at Mom’s birthday party. Not sure why she’s making that face. Probably because she takes after her father. He’s always doing crazy things like this. Yes, that’s it. Her father. 😉

Whether rain or shine, cold or heat, Leslie is my dependable one. She can be found at my side in the kitchen, waiting to help. Or perhaps she’s helping her baby sister (pictured above) use the restroom. She might be folding towels for me, or picking up some area of the house, all the while saying “I knew this room would be messed up if we let the kids play in there.” She may be found lying beside me at night, talking to me non-stop about things that have only happened in her own mind. You may see her on all fours making a human step out of her back so Laci can climb up on the bed.

But whatever she’s doing, you can be sure she will be bringing joy to those around her, because that’s what Leslie does best.

A happy and grateful Mother,

Just Like Dad and Mom

Valerie Basham

no comments

November 2, 2009

Deut. 6:6-7 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

My mother had just come in from a long day of teaching. She had taught elementary school for several years. She had worked to attain her Master’s degree in Special Education, and had been one of the most respected teachers in this field. She then became an elementary principal for nine years. When the Lord opened up an opportunity for her to get back into teaching, she readily took it. Now, here she was, nearing the end of another school year. I had stopped by to visit her just as she had gotten home. She was looking through the mail, the highlight of her day! That day, she received something from the Department of Education. She opened it immediately. It was the annual salary report. Salaries for teachers in Arkansas is based largely upon experience. At this point, she had experience. The report had neat columns of information. One item it listed was how many sick days she had been given and how many had been used.

She gasped as she read the report. She had accrued over 100 days of sick leave! “Would you just look at that.” She said softly. “Isn’t that an amazing testimony of God’s blessings? I can’t believe I have that many un-used sick days.” I agreed with her that it was, indeed, a great blessing.

That sort of conversation wasn’t unusual in my family. I suppose there were people who judged us because my mom wasn’t a “stay-at-home-mom”. If they judged my parents’ walk with the Lord based on that one criterion, they were sorely off the mark. My Mom and Dad talked about the Lord and the Bible constantly. It was the book by which they centered their lives. Every decision was based upon God’s Word. My Mom’s favorite book of the Bible is Proverbs. I know this without checking with her about it, because she talked about it…a lot! She studied it and applied its wisdom. That’s why her students adored her, and teachers liked her. That’s why after six years of retirement, her former superintendent still offers her a job every time he sees her – every time. Because she lived like Christ. Was she perfect? No, she wasn’t and isn’t. But there was no question about just Who she was, and is, trying to emulate.

My Dad went to heaven over five years ago now. God gave me amazing strength and grace to allow me to say a few words, along with my siblings, at his funeral. I was up until 2 AM the day of his funeral, grappling with what to say. I prayed. I wept uncontrollably. How was I supposed to sum up 26 years of friendship, teaching, and love in just a few minutes at a podium? I couldn’t. But the Lord, in His magnificent way, told me what to say. He reminded me of today’s verse. That was what I should say. That summed up my Mom, as well as my Dad.

My Mom taught Language Arts to hundreds of students over the years. However, the most important lesson she ever taught, didn’t take place in a classroom. She and Dad taught me that I could trust God and His Word for everything. They proved it at breakfast, while they worked, when they came home in the evening, and as they ended their day in rest. This is the most important lesson that I could teach my children, as well. I want them to honor Christ with their lives even more than I want them to learn proper English, and I’m a stickler about grammar. 😉

Today, as I begin a new week of homeschooling, mothering, and working, I want to remember this verse. This verse reminds me of my priorities – to live like Christ all the time. When I fail, I want to get up and keep going for Him. Just like Dad and Mom.

Valerie

The Many Faces of Laci

Valerie Basham

no comments

October 29, 2009

One of the great blessings of having a blog, is being able to post pictures of my family here for my loved ones who live far away. The loved ones who admit knowing me, that is! So, if you are not related to me, the following post might be a bit boring. Just pictures of my little Laci Elizabeth. I suppose you could look at this as my “online scrapbook”.

I have so many photos of my children! I probably have more pictures of Laci right now than I do any of the other kids. I think this is because of the enormous guilt I feel over not having made a baby book for her, like I did the other three. It’s also because I catch her doing some really funny things! My older kids don’t really get the crazy ideas that Laci does – well, at least, not as often. 🙂

I’d like to feature each one of the kids in their own post, so that I can do something with all of the photos I’ve snapped of them. I’m going in reverse birth order. Remember, if you’re not related, read on at your own risk. 😉

She had a really great time with my felt visuals for school. 🙂

Feeding her baby and catching some ‘toons before church one Sunday morning. Multi-tasking already. That’s my girl!

Entertaining herself during school by cutting paper into teeny-tiny bits. *Emphasis on teeny-tiny.*

I just loved this little pigtail in her hair. Folks at church called her “Pebbles” from the cartoon the Flintstones. 🙂

Not really sure what this is….

CURLZ!!

Trying on goggles before swimming. Actually, she never wore goggles when were were in the water, only at home. On dry land.

You’ve heard of Christmas in July? This was “winter in July”.

My nephew, Stephen, just adored Laci. He spent nearly every waking moment with her while they were here.

Laci at the Ozark Folk Center last July.

Here she is on the swing at the Ozark Folk Center. Lookin’ a bit sleepy, doncha think?

We celebrated Lauren’s 10th birthday at Chuck E. Cheese this year. Laci loved the little Barney ride.

Laci enjoyed being with Stephen as much as he enjoyed being with her. This picture says it all.

Laci likes our dog, Libby. She’s never been afraid of her. Come to think of it, she’s never been afraid of anything…hmmm. I have no idea what kind of outfit she created.

This is Laci, in her bed, wearing tights on her head. Who knows. Your guess is as good as mine.

I loved the way she had lined up her little “babies” to sleep beside her. Precious.

Laci got wedged between my bed and footboard. I had to photograph it. Yes, I see that her legs look purplish. She’ll live. 🙂

“Okay, Mom, enough pictures! My legs are hurting!”

Another chic outfit creation. I think Leslie helped with this one!

Another interesting outfit designed by Laci. This is her workout attire.

To all of you relatives, I hope you enjoyed it.

To all of you non-relatives, thanks for indulging me. 🙂

To Laci: I hope this, in some small way, makes up for the fact you don’t have a baby book! 🙂 I love you!

Valerie

An Afternoon Visit

Valerie Basham

no comments

October 21, 2009

Hello! Thank you for coming over! Come on in! I have some cookies ready for us. Do you like soda, or just water? I have both, so help yourself there on the counter. I could also make some tea, if you would like. I have some cute china tea cups that I never use.You would like some? Oh good! I’ll put on the kettle! Just make yourself at home.

The children are with my husband right now. They finished school early today. It was such a beautiful day, he offered to take them all to the park so I could have some “me” time. Usually, it is just me! I use the time alone to clean something, or I’ll piddle on my website, writing something. I don’t have many hobbies. We have four active children, as you know, so funds can run tight. Funds are tight for everyone these days, though! It is so much nicer to sit and visit with someone – in the flesh – than just sit at a computer, talking to myself. 🙂 I was so delighted when you called! May I show you around?

Really the house isn’t so special, I mean, I feel like I don’t make it very special. I’m a terrible decorator! I am not a great cook either, but we get by okay, that’s why I have these ten extra pounds that won’t budge. Someday, I want to paint the bedrooms, and have nice things on the walls. For now, you’ll have to look at the photos of my family. If I do re-decorate, though, I don’t think I’ll take those down. I love my family more than anything on Earth. The church owns our home, so we are next door to the church. May I show you?

There it is. Oh, sorry! You can’t see it, can you? Let me open the blinds more. Now, that’s better. It’s that beautiful red-brick building down there. That’s our church. We have some wonderful people that attend there. I love heading down this little hill, on that sidewalk, to go to church. My husband works very hard to preach in love and admonition to the people of Grace. He is the most humble man I know. He enjoys preaching, but at the same time, he is often weighed down with the enormous responsibility of leading people spiritually, and feeding them from God’s Word. He works hard to be sure he is only preaching the Word, and not his or another man’s opinions. That building is a constant reminder to me, and to him, of what we do. Most of the time, I love seeing it out of my bedroom window. Some days, though, I look at it and see a looming giant that is sucking away my energy and isolating me from the world. People seem to think I’m different, because my husband’s a pastor. They seem to think my husband is on some “higher plane” from everyone else, too! It’s kinda funny to me, now, because (laughing) I used to think the very same thing about my pastor when I was younger! I see things from the other side now. I sometimes wonder if people think we walk around in choir robes singing the Hallelujah Chorus all day. Nothing could be further from the truth! We are very real people, with very real struggles.

I can’t tell you how glad I am to see you. I feel so very lonely so much of the time. I have recently been hurt by several people – oh, nothing major – but, it hurts just the same. I don’t feel like I can confide in anyone because I’m supposed to be so holy, upright and wonderful. If I let my hair down, and just share my heart, I’m afraid they will criticize me, or my husband, and that would really break my heart. I would never want to hurt my husband. The truth is, I am frail. I lean upon the Lord each day for strength. So many people have jobs they lean on, or their family ties to strengthen them. I do not. My family is gone. My Dad’s in heaven, and my brother and sister live hundreds of miles away. My Mom is about an hour away, but she is very busy. I speak to her on the phone regularly though, and I do get to see her from time to time. I know this is all part of God’s plan – to have my loved ones so far away on Earth, or in Heaven – but it makes life seem so much more lonely. I am so thankful that I have a very close bond with my husband and my children. My husband is such a good listener. He knows how to be not only a great husband to me, but a wonderful friend, as well. I’ve tried opening up to other ministry wives, but I’ve found it just makes me feel worse. I once e-mailed a lady that I had known closely in my teen years. I shared with her some of my struggles. Her response sounded more like a sermon than a letter. I never wrote her again. I was already hurting, and her words hurt me even more. I’ve talked with pastor’s wives, but they usually say “The Lord should be your friend. He is always with you.” To which, my flesh would like to say, “REALLY? Thank you SO much! I didn’t know that!” in as sarcastic of a tone that I can muster. I know the Lord is with me, and He is my best friend. But, He understands I’m dust. People don’t seem to have this same understanding. I have the Lord, first and foremost. I also need people now and then. God created us to need one another.

Oh my! Look at the time! I know you need to get on home. I’m sorry to have rambled on and on. I appreciate your listening and not judging me. It was so nice to just let my hair down for a while.

I hope you will come again soon. Next time, I promise, I won’t do all the talking! 🙂

Valerie

Modern Ancient Writing

Valerie Basham

no comments

September 27, 2009

We’ve been working our way through world history using The Story of the World. It’s new to me to use a book that didn’t come with scripted lesson plans. In fact, recently, it’s been a source of much anxiety and hyperventilating. Yes, ladies and….ladies, I am very much of a text book kind of homeschooling Mom. I enjoy seeing books filled with neatly completed workbook pages. I am sort of a tyrant about it. I wanted to loosen up – JUST A LITTLE – this year. I found the series of books called The Story of the World, which is a chronological history of the world. It’s a good read. I enjoy it. But then, I’m thirty….one.

To make our study more interesting, I have tried to think up little projects we can do to help the material stick. We often illustrate what we read and keep it in a binder with our nature walk journal entries. Last week we studied the ancient forms of writing known as hieroglyphics and cuneiform. Hieroglyphics are the stone carvings – drawings – that the Egyptians did eons ago. Cuneiform was done by the Sumerians. It is writing or drawing done in wet clay and then left to dry. I thought this would make a fun project for us to do, and it could double as art, as well! We used the Crayola Air Dry clay. It resembles real potter’s clay, except you can’t fire it. Once the kids did their “ancient” writing, they made some little pots as well.

Here are a few pics:

Lauren and Mitch working on our version of cuneiform writing.

Lauren really got into it! 🙂

Here’s the best shot of the finished product that I could get. I’m sorry it’s hard to see.They “read” to me what they were drawing , but I can’t remember now! (blushing)

I almost caved and bought a regular history curriculum because I really get nervous when I don’t have everything spelled out for me concerning homeschooling. But, my husband calmed me down, a task with which he is all too familiar, and encouraged me that I could do it. I keep telling myself that I CAN teach my children – without lesson plans – and have fun at the same time. But, I have a feeling that it will take a few more months of “therapy” before I gain confidence. (My poor husband!)

I’m not sure what path our history adventures will take next, but I’ll do my best to keep you posted.

Have you used The Story of the World Volume 1? Have any ideas or tips to share? I’d love to hear from you! Please comment here. 🙂

Valerie

Where it All Began

Valerie Basham

no comments

September 11, 2009

If you have visited my site before, and read my love story, then you know how it all really began. Terry and I met when we were fourteen, we hated each other for years…blah, blah, blah. If you would like more details then please check out my, I mean our, story. But my life with Terry legally began on our wedding day.

What?? Is it my anniversary? Well, no.

YES!

Sort of.

Sorry, let me explain. On September 11, twelve years ago, I began my journey to the altar. It took approximately four months to complete. It was…fast! I have this weird thing for dates. I remember everyone’s birthday from my elementary years in school. Okay, maybe not everyone. But I remember the March birthdays, as well as a few others. Really. We’re talkin’ about people I haven’t seen for years! Isn’t that weird?

Anyway, I have September 11, 1997, carved in stone in my memory bank. It was a clear, cool evening. I had just been offered a great promotion at Landers Buick- Pontiac- GMC. I was offered the position of “Customer Relations Manager”. The job was management – this meant I would get a DEMO to drive! Now we’re talkin’ baby! Not to mention a RAISE! Going from receptionist/telephone operator/ “go ahead, dump all your complaints on me while I grin and bear it” girl to a manager was a vast improvement! It would be climbing up the ladder at least two more rungs…I was ecstatic! I couldn’t wait to get to my church, for my college class, so I could tell my boyfiend the good news!!

As soon as my big mouth crossed the threshold of our church auditorium, the news was heard by all within, oh, at least two or three miles. Terry, though, didn’t seem too excited. He seemed…deflated. I couldn’t understand his obvious lack of enthusiasm.

After our class, he invited me to TCBY for some ice cream…er…frozen yogurt. I always got their chocolate chip cookie dough in a waffle cone…DEE LISH. His Mother came along as a chaperone. She had been in the middle of a sewing project, but Terry talked her out of it. (Although, now that I think about it, I don’t know what he gave her for her trouble…I don’t think she even got any ice cream!) We sat outside, under the stars, beside a small tree that still had some green leaves on it. It was a beautiful night.*sigh*

Out of nowhere, Terry gets down on one knee in front of me and pulls out a ring. I gasped!! (This was really turning out to be a great day!)

“Valerie,” he said, looking at me intently,”I talked to your Dad today, and he gave me permission to do this. I love you, and only you. Will you marry me?”He placed the ring on my finger, Terry’s mom was teary eyed. I was, for the first and only time in my life, speechless.

Yes, let’s pause a moment and let that soak in….that’s enough. Terry’s mom finally said, laughing, “Are you gonna say ‘Yes’?”

“Oh, oh!” I stammered. “YES! Of course, yes!” Terry leaned forward to kiss me, but his mother grabbed his shirt and pulled him back. I was gazing down at the ring and savoring the moment.

We talked a little while and finally decided to leave and spread the good news. Right before we left, a car was beside us at the drive through window. He pulled forward around a slight curve and suddenly a loud BANG rang out, followed by what sounded like air leaking out. He had pinched the side wall of his tire against the curb just right and blew his tire!We scurried on our way, I and Terry with our heads in the clouds!

We never could have imagined some of the twists and turns that God has brought us through. Eight moves, the death of my Dad, and raising four children are just a few of the mountains we’ve climbed together, and are still climbing. Some of the valleys have been very deep. I’m so thankful that I have him to lean on during the trials. I am thankful for his strength and character during each of those valleys. I am so glad he didn’t walk away when the road got rough. I haven’t always been the kind of wife that I should have been, but Terry has loved me anyway.

Happy engagement anniversary, Darling! I’m so glad you asked, and I’m so glad I sense enough to…finally…say yes! 😉

The above photos were taken back in the dark ages, with cameras that used 35 mm film! I had to scan them into my computer. The first one has that yellow line across it in the original, so it has it in this one too. I’m not familiar with my PSP X2 progam enough to know how to fix it. The second photo is in a glass frame. When I went to remove it to scan it, it was stuck to the glass. 😦 I didn’t try to remove it for fear of tearing it. I scanned it with the glass over it. Needless to say, that didn’t improve it any.

I didn’t photograph myself back then the way teens today do, so these are the only two pics that I have of us during our six months of dating. Maybe some relatives have more…I just don’t know.

Always in love,

Valerie

A Capitol Idea!

Valerie Basham

no comments

September 10, 2009

On Monday, August 31, our family had a unique opportunity to visit the office of Mark Pryor, one of our United States Senators,to discuss the possibility of his co-sponsoring the Parental Rights Amendment. (My younger kiddos stayed with my Mom for the morning while Terry, I and Lauren made the trip on to Little Rock.) We did not get to met the Senator, but we got to speak with one of his staffers, Ms. Sarah Holland. His office is in downtown Little Rock, about a two hour drive for us. We decided that since we were already going to be in the Capital city, we should visit the capitol building! I had intended to take Lauren for a tour during fourth grade, when we actually studied State History, but the drive, schedules and money stood in our way. I had ordered a free DVD about the building of our state Capitol from our Secretary of State’s office last year. We viewed it the night before our tour. It provided some good background information before we actually made our visit.

I have visited our state Capitol at least twice as a child, but I hardly remember anything from it. I really enjoyed the tour. Probably more than Lauren!

Here are some of the highlights of our trip. Our tour guide, Alexis, was very nice. The best part about the tour is that it was free!

That red speck is me and Lauren is beside me. It’s quite a building!

These bronze doors on the front of the enormous, marble and limestone building. have not been used regularly since 9/11. Aren’t they beautiful?

Lauren is here with our state seal…what a ham! 😉

As you enter our capitol, you must only look up to see this spectacular rotunda!

This portrait of the Honorable Mike Huckabee, our Governor from 1999-2007, hangs in the press room, which is a fancy conference room with a fireplace on each end.

The rotunda on the second floor. A press conference had just been held here right before we arrived.

Looking down at the second floor rotunda from the third floor. I love all the marble! We loved the echo!

The fourth floor is the state senators and representatives offices as well as the entry to the gallery of the house and senate. They have displays of our state symbols here also. Here’s Lauren with our state tree…the Pine!

Here’s our state cooking utensil, the iron skillet!

The tour guide gave Lauren a mini state flag! Isn’t it cute?

She’s thrilled to be photographed with our state mineral – Bauxite. We also learned that we have a state dance..any guesses? The Square Dance! Our state beverage is milk, and our state soil…yes, you read right, we have a state soil. Give up? It’s Stuttgart soil. (That’s a city in northeastern Arknasas in which rice grows by the semi-truck load. It’s the home of Riceland Rice!)Who knew?

We got to ride this very cool, old-timey elavator!

Beside the elevator was a mail chute! We wondered if they still used it, but our tour guide had left to allow us to explore on our own.

The neatest part of the tour almost didn’t happen. We were looking at the gift shop so Lauren could pick up a souvenir, when I struck up a conversation with the cashier. Lo and behold, she used to teach school with my Mom at Bryant Elementary, not far from there! What a small world! In the course of our conversation, she asked us if we had been to the state treasurer’s office…we said no. She told us we could go get our photo made in the state vault – get this – holding $200,000!! How neat! We couldn’t pass that up!

Here’s a photo of the vault door. It weighs 11 tons!

Lauren looks just a wee bit happy, wouldn’t you say? 😀

Terry made a sad face. I thought he was just doing it to go against the grain, as usual, (haha!) but he said he really was sad. “Why?” I asked him. “Because it’s not my money.” He may have been frowning, but I look at this and laugh! 😉

I smiled! Not just because I was holding more money than I would ever see at one time in my life, but also because we’d had a wonderful day together. I love homeschooling because I get to have a front row seat to my children’s learning experiences. I also get to re-live a little bit of my own blissful childhood in the process. It’s a great life!

As we were leaving, the tour guide graciously gave me two CDs with state history curriculum on them! What a blessing! Those will come in very handy!

Have you ever visited your state capitol? You can purchase “Capitol Passports” and have them stamped at each capitol you visit. It would be a fun thing to do if you travel a lot! You never know what you might get to do, or who you might see at your state capitol!

Valerie