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Music. The only thing I listen to these days is CHRI--our local Christian station. Or Mozart, as he is our feature composer this term. My choice to listen to Christian radio has very little to do with personal taste in music, and everything to do with how intently my kids listen. I used to have CBC radio on all the time. But the content has gotten more and more disturbing. When Caelah finally said; "I don't want to listen to this anymore. I don't want to hear about more people dying, " I tuned out for good. I must admit, however, that there are a few occasions where the Christian music has been so schmaltzy and syrupy that I had to shut it off. And I do a happy dance when I hear a good, heavy rock song by a Christian band I love--namely, NeedtoBreathe. Bobbing my head, I think to myself ; "See mom? Christians can rock-out too!"
Books. I used to find lots of time to read. In fact, I used to find too much time to read. I would completely shut out the noise and blink off my peripheral vision, focusing in a way I only wish I could apply to other areas of my life.
When I do read these days, the books must:
A. Really spark my kids' interest. My boys will only stay still if a book really wows their eyes and ears.
B. It must feed my soul. As much as I miss my princesses and far-off lands, I must chose between whimsy or heart-food.
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Games. We are big game players 'round here. Three games have captured our attention this year. Two of the three can be played with the kids-- although that is a very sacrificial endeavor, on our part. They are all incredibly competitive children. (Hmmm. Where did that come from?) And they take great liberties with the "rules."
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Outside. Ski! Caelah and I have become members of our local Cross-Country ski club. She now has her own skis and straps them on at all times of the day. I have been so impressed by her natural athleticism. Skating season has started. Aidan and Anthony have big hopes of flooding the river behind our place. Lots of work, but utterly magical if they manage. I dis, however, take note of the snow-mobile tracks on the river. Do those things have good brakes?