Comments Posted By Jules
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Congratulations! She’s a beauty!
» Posted By Jules On January 11, 2010 @ 7:07 am
Congratulations, Rob and Sarah!
Psalm 139 is my very favorite scripture. A life full of promise awaits your little one. God Bless!
» Posted By Jules On June 25, 2009 @ 1:12 pm
How funny! James and I were just talking about this last night. BTW, thanks for giving us something to talk about besides work and kids! Good post! James doesn’t think there is any feminization of men going on in our culture and he’s probably right. Maybe I have watched too many decorationg shows or I’m becoming paranoid living in a home FULL of girls! Ha! Or maybe I’m tired of political correctness! Buzzzz. . . As for the church, I have never heard anything like that at church. Our church is the most balanced church we’ve ever been a part of. It’s an amazing place!
Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you. . .
I believe that God can help us redefine or put into modern venacular what it mean to be a man or woman while clinging to that which is unchangeable, the Word of God. Change the changeable and hold fast to that which is unchangeable!
Rob, you have no idea how reeling it is for me after I express myself either in conversation or on a blog comment, etc. Unlike my husband, I am a more private person. I do need to express myself sometimes, I know it’s good for me, it’s just very difficult. I’ve enjoyed this dialogue and I will survive! Hehehe!
» Posted By Jules On February 4, 2009 @ 5:19 am
When I was using the term whiney that was not in reference to non-traditional male behavior. It was about me and the positive attributes my dad imparted to me. It’s easy for me to want to whine because things are very hard, but I have to remember the good things my dad imparted to me and cling to them. That’s where I am personally. I have to have some grit and stubborness in this life and my dad is a positive example to me in that way. Sometimes we have to tough out seasons of life. Instead of looking at my dad’s flaws I want to brag about his strengths and gleen from them.
As for “nice and soft” those are opposites of being at war when you are fighting an enemy. It’s a harsh place to be. In an age of the buzz word tolerance, we -I- need to be tolerant toward my dad and try to see where he’s coming from and why he’s the way he is. What some of these men went through is truly unfathomable. I wish for all men to be “nice and soft” especially when it comes to their children. God the father is gentle and loving and I am grateful!
I don’t think you can precisely define what it looks like to be a man or a woman. God gave each of us different tempermants, personalities, gifts and abilities. We each have a different call on our lives. To have fulfillment in this life I think we need to be where we are supposed to be, doing what we are called by God to do. James and I feel strongly that we are doing just that. We say we are going to faithfully stand at our posts until it’s obvious it’s time to move on to a new post. In a world of the career minded, working woman it took me some time to completely feel comfortable with the fact that being a stay-at-home mom was my personal call. It’s not easy when people ask what do you do all day (as if you are a bon-bon eating, soap opera watcher), but I’ve come to the place where I can completely feel at peace with where God has me. I feel like that may be the key, my womanly self-worth needs to be based on how God sees me and who He created me to be.
I know this is very biased, but my hubby, although barbaric at times (ha!), is my ideal man. He’s my hero everyday when he goes out to “kill something and drag it home” as he likes to say. He sacrifices everyday to provide for us. He’s not afraid to get in someone’s face (literally) and stand up for what’s best for one of his kids. He’s my personal warrior! He did that when we were fostering Jessica. It made my heart swell. He LOVES the Lord and is a true worshiper of Him. I believe he is a good and giving friend to his fellow man. He is constantly studying to improve himself and his family. He cries very easily blotting his eyes constantly during church and sappy movies or when one of the girls says something sweet to him! (this is a D family trait among the men) He tears up easier than I do! James is a leader of men who humbly makes sure to spend time each week with other men who are much further along in life than him. He truly loves me sacrificially like Christ loved the church. This is the man James has allowed God to mold him into in order to fulfill the role or call that he’s been given. He’s perfect for ME (flaws and all ; ) ! Are you gagging yet? The title of your post made me immediately think of my man.
Men tend to be more involved in the home and family than men from previous generations. At least according to my mom and aunts. I think the roles and expectations of men has evolved in a positive way, but balance is always important. We can’t let the pendulum swing so much the other way that we try to ‘feminize’ men. This country girl just can’t stand that. I really, really enjoy masculinity!
Oh, and with all due respect to those great men and women who have gone before us, I think our generation is the new greatest generation. I am an optomist!
» Posted By Jules On February 3, 2009 @ 1:09 pm
The way men talk to each other
James told me about this post awhile back. I finally got here to read it!
I was raised by “Walt”. My dad is an ex-autoworker and Marine Vietnam war veteran. He has some sexist and racist tendencies. I was estranged from him for awhile. He’s very rough around the edges. These men from these generations have been through hell and back. They’ve had to live in a culture of war that we cannot even begin to imagine, then they are expected to come back into this society and be “nice” or “soft”. Many come back broken. The older I get the more and more thankful I am to be raised by a man like my dad. I am a head strong woman who can face difficult things and tough it out without wimping out! I think my dad had something to do with that!!! The last thing I want to be is whiney! In this day where so many are looking for handouts we need to follow the example of people like my dad who would NEVER take a handout unless he had exhausted all other possibilities. We need more men like that!
As for the way men communicate, men do communicate differently with each other than women. Men tend to bond by doing activities together. They tend to do things side by side without necessarily talking a lot. Us wives joke about how weird it would be if we called each other names like our husbands do. It’s a hilarious thought, but the guys do it all the time! Women get together to talk regardless of what we are doing. James tends to get together with his buddies to see a movie, eat out, watch the game, etc. I think he’s just as close to his friends, it’s just that they bond differently. Now when it comes to James and his girls or me he relates to us differently. There’s more talking and physical affection. It’s more relational. I guess in this day and age of the feminized man, (GAG) I certainly don’t mind James acting a little “barbaric” from time to time!
» Posted By Jules On February 2, 2009 @ 1:27 pm
Congratulations, Rob! Your guy won!
» Posted By Jules On November 5, 2008 @ 4:53 am
I am so very proud to be an American on this election day! We are so blessed to live in this country of freedoms! I am so thankful to all of the men and women throughout our history who have fought for our country. My dad is a war veteran. I am proud of him. Growing up with a dad with PTSD as a result of the war was very difficult at times, but I am thankful for all the sacrifices that were made by many throughout our history. We are truly blessed. God Bless The USA!
I was raised in a Democratic family. I was proud of that! My parents are no longer Democrats and neither am I. We’ve gone our different ways for different reasons. I’m thankful for the freedom to vote! I don’t think either party is even close to perfect. I just choose the one that comes closest to my moral compass. I am passionate about what I believe!
Rob, starting in my middle 30’s I began to look back at my upbringing. So much has come up and I’ve struggled with a lot of it. When I go to visit my childhood home at my Dad’s, I fight tears. There are so many memories, some good some really bad. Overall I was blessed because I am the person I am today, in part, because of my childhood history. I think it’s common to question things, especially at this age.
I can tell you as I raise my kids, they want to know what I believe and why I believe it. They want to share their family’s beliefs. I think it’s vitally important. I learned some awesome things from my parents: 1. Patriotism 2. Hard work – making your own way. 3. Love and respect of old people. What I didn’t get was what they believed about faith, morality, social issues, etc. I craved these things desperately. I wanted my parents to teach my their beliefs in these areas. I would have been a child with much more peace if I had these things in my life. I have always been jealous of people that grew up in strong families with strong faith. When I married James the whole Christian family thing was brand new to me. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to teach my children core beliefs. I am learning to be so very thankful for my upbringing. Like I said, I am who I am in part because of my childhood. I guess I’m looking back just like you are, but from a much different perspective. Seek Him first and the Lord will direct you. That’s what I am trying to do.
I am posting because James brought me home a new computer this afternoon! Yippee!
» Posted By Jules On November 4, 2008 @ 11:34 am
Sarah deserves a beautiful and practical kitchen! I love the stain color of the new cabinets!
» Posted By Jules On November 4, 2008 @ 3:53 pm
I guess I’m fortunate to keep such good company. James and I are surrounded by very generous family and friends. I don’t see stinginess in my circle of influence. We have also been at the receiving end of very generous offerings by people who knew we were in need. Percentage wise we outgive those running for office with the exception of McCain. It’s a darn shame. I believe in the principle of sowing and reaping. I think it applies to every area of our lives. We are blessed to bless. We follow the Dave Ramsey plan. Money is for giving, saving and then spending. My Dave Ramsey budget form list charity at the very top. It’s the first thing you budget for each month. I believe these economic times are causing MILLIONS to get on the Dave Ramsey budget. What a blessing to our country. Millions of people being taught to give first and then budget for everything else. Once you start budgeting and living within your means your money is freed up to give more of it away. I thank God for Dave Ramsey. We have always given our tithe to our church but thanks to him when times are tough we aren’t tempted to give less. We give a set percentage of our income no matter what. It’s always fun to give above and beyond that when you see need. When you live your life within your means and budget, it’s amazing the freedom you have to give. This is the problem our country has. We need to get back to good old fashioned Grandma budgeting! Live within your means and stay out of debt! This would change our country in an enormous way. I am more for the Dave Ramsey financial plan than I am the government taking money from us to spread around as they see fit.
My sister is die hard Democrat. We’ve enjoyed discussing the issues. I can see her point of view, too, even though I may not agree in the end. It’s fun to discuss things with people of a different point of view. Thanks, Rob.
» Posted By Jules On November 4, 2008 @ 3:00 pm
The whole idea of spreading the wealth is disturbing to me. Jealousy is wishing you had what someone else has. Envy is, “I can’t have it so you shouldn’t have it either”. I think this spread the wealth ideology is causing class warfare which is becoming dangerously close to envy.
Obama made the comment that those opposed to “spreading the wealth” were making selfishness a virtue. I actually felt very angry about that comment. James and I are very giving people and the more we make the more we will give, not just to our church family but to those around us in need. I want to have the honor of spreading my wealth around myself. I know I can do a much more with my giving than the government. I am grateful that God has put people in my life who have need. It’s such a blessing to give. Plus, I don’t want my money going to social programs that I think are terribly wrong.
That being said, our country is amazing no matter who is President. Our country is much bigger than one man or one woman. I respect the Presidency and am thankful no matter who wins to be an American. We are so blessed!!
» Posted By Jules On November 4, 2008 @ 11:56 am
I can sure relate to that quote. That’s me all the way. I am trying hard to organize my life in hope that my thoughts will follow suit! Having more space in our new home has really helped me a lot. Plus, I’ve tried things like getting a thingy to hang my keys around my neck when I go places. I don’t even have to think about where my keys are! It’s function over fashion these days. It’s official, I’ve become one of those moms! GTD sounds interesting.
Have fun with your changes. I look forward to seeing them.
» Posted By Jules On May 25, 2007 @ 6:28 am
Hehe! That’s what I was thinking of, hon! What year was that? 1991?
» Posted By Jules On February 12, 2007 @ 3:32 pm
I’d rather see matching phones than matching sweaters!
They are fun! I enjoy colorful accessories!
» Posted By Jules On February 12, 2007 @ 5:28 am
I guess I belong in Texas. I would not want to drive one of those miniature things. The bigger the better. Is that an American attitude? I would fit right in with the hand motions, pasta and coffee.
I’d love to travel someday. I’ve only made it to Mexico thus far. That’s not much of a stretch.
Congrats to you on your world travels.
» Posted By Jules On December 4, 2006 @ 12:54 pm
Karen is a big Bond fan. She sees them all at the theatre. She said she liked Casino but it isn’t her favorite. She really missed the gadgets.
» Posted By Jules On November 29, 2006 @ 7:08 am
Rob, we saw Bond last night with Carl, Mary, Tom and Karen. We all really enjoyed it. I held my breath a lot!!! The scenes were so fun!
We enjoyed your visit. I get excitable when you guys visit. Karen teased me last night! I can’t seem to keep it under control when girlfriends come over.
» Posted By Jules On November 26, 2006 @ 12:03 pm
How fun! I love all the costumes!
hmmmm. . . cowboy Rob or superRob? They’re both great looks for you Rob. You may have to work a little on facial expressions, though. Sarah’s onto you!
» Posted By Jules On November 6, 2006 @ 7:56 am
I remember the joy of snow days! Now snow days for me make for busy, busy days! There’s always a mountain of wet snow gear by the door and my socks are cold and soggy all day from kiddos tracking in! My kitchen table is typically covered in sticky hot chocolate spills!
I don’t think it snows as much here like it did when we were growing up. Too bad.
» Posted By Jules On November 1, 2006 @ 12:21 pm
Very fun! They will make spending money at Wal-Mart less painful.
» Posted By Jules On October 23, 2006 @ 10:37 am
I love the color! The white cabinets make the kitchen look so fresh.
» Posted By Jules On January 18, 2007 @ 9:14 am
Aren’t fun family gatherings refreshing to the soul?!!
It’s always fun when the celebrations continue! Congratulations once again!
» Posted By Jules On October 17, 2006 @ 6:29 pm
Ahhhh, what a nice post. I am glad to hear of your happiness!
I love marriage. . . It’s difficult sometimes and I am finally starting to understand that no matter what James’ love for me isn’t going to change, even if I’m moody and difficult. I am also learning that God’s feelings for me are always loving and faithful, even when I am not. I have been married nearly 16 years and some things are just now starting to really sink into my soul and spirit.
You have a wonderful life ahead of you full of promise and adventure!
» Posted By Jules On October 4, 2006 @ 11:01 am
It was so fun to look at all your pictures. What a wonderful adventure you were able to have! My favorite pic is Up On The Mountain with the lake view. You should frame that one!
» Posted By Jules On December 11, 2006 @ 7:36 am
Rob, are you talking about our OG panthers? The girls love their school colors. I buy them a couple of new Panther t-shirts at the beginning of each school year.
» Posted By Jules On September 18, 2006 @ 1:47 pm
I do like the avatars bigger. They were too little before.
» Posted By Jules On September 15, 2006 @ 12:58 pm
It looks great, Rob. I think you have the most detailed and organized blog I’ve seen. I wish I could give you some tinkering advice, but everything looks terrific.
» Posted By Jules On September 15, 2006 @ 12:58 pm
I thought Lydia would get a kick out of these.
She wants to know what you are watching. She says it looks like it is impressive.
» Posted By Jules On August 4, 2006 @ 11:42 am
Oh my gosh! How fun! You’ve got to hold onto these. James and I do most of our dating at home. (That happens when you have kids.) You’ll be glad to get these out, lower the lights, and pop some corn. You’ll feel like you’re actually at the theatre!
» Posted By Jules On August 4, 2006 @ 6:30 am
Nice lookin barn ya got there!
Rob, the hat looks great. I have a fondness for cowboys!
» Posted By Jules On July 30, 2006 @ 5:45 pm
«« Back To Stats PageSo is this in Sarah’s backyard? Do condos have backyards? What an exciting time! Is this where all your stuff is going to go? I am full of questions today.
» Posted By Jules On July 3, 2006 @ 12:12 pm