tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40202875461917291132024-03-04T20:21:18.314-08:00Ditchin' the KitchenJaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-44188042126666664962014-10-17T07:02:00.001-07:002014-10-17T07:02:47.785-07:00Dad's New Truck<strong><em>So today our family is on a little trip to pick up Dad's new vacuum truck for his business. The boys have the day off school so they get to go with us. All in all a fun time. But getting this truck got me to thinking about how my 40 year old boy isn't much different than my 7 and 9 year old boys....</em></strong><br />
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When you are a boy age nine or seven</div>
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What puts you in seventh heaven?</div>
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Playing in the dirt, or getting grass stains</div>
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Jumping in a puddle after it rains</div>
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Watching your Royals win a post-season game</div>
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Getting your rocket to shoot out some flames</div>
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Remote control cars or 4-wheeler riding</div>
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Breaking the rules, never abiding.</div>
<br />
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<o:p> </o:p>How about a trip to get your dad’s new pump truck</div>
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Just getting to ride has got to be good luck</div>
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Checking it out and kicking the tires</div>
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Doing what dad does like mini-man-spy-ers</div>
<br />
<br />
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Now what if you’re a man age forty to date</div>
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Is there much difference between what you like or
hate?</div>
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Big trucks and gadgets with torque and power</div>
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Are equivalent to making an erector set tower</div>
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No, not much difference between a man or a boy</div>
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As we all know, it’s just the price of their
toys</div>
Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-28705549350776592022012-12-11T13:45:00.000-08:002012-12-11T13:45:14.630-08:00T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS (Teacher style...)<em>I'm back in the classroom again. For those of you who are teachers, this time of year creates a different kind of mood in the classroom. I hope you can enjoy and appreciate the humor! God bless!</em><br />
<br />
T’was a few weeks before Christmas, when all through the halls<br />
Every creature was stirring, they were even throwing balls (in class…)<br />
The teachers were doing their best to stay sane<br />
In hopes that a snow day would cure school disdain<br />
The finals were ready, they’d been edited and read<br />
Visions of quiet classes danced in teachers’ heads<br />
The students were nestled in parkas, scarves, and caps<br />
Bundled up so tightly as if in a winter trap<br />
<br />
There was coughing and sneezing, colds seeming to spread<br />
Teachers in hopes sanitizer would kill any virus dead<br />
But Currie with his tea, and Earl with his iPad<br />
Each teacher clinging to a vice, to get through both good days and bad<br />
<br />
Now first hour, Now second hour, Now third and fourth too<br />
Now fifth hour and sixth hour, how many of these must we go through?!<br />
To the end of the day, to the end of the week!<br />
Now move along, move along! So the teachers won’t shriek!<br />
<br />
And then, in a twinkling, the day finally came<br />
The last day of school before the Christmas break reign<br />
The teachers’ eyes, how they twinkled; their smiles, how merry<br />
So giddy they’d consider dancing to songs by Katy Perry (well, maybe not THAT merry…)<br />
<br />
They sprang from their desks as the school bell gave a whistle<br />
And away they all drove like their car was a missile<br />
But still they exclaimed as they drove out of sight<br />
“Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!”<br />
<br />
Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-39482389272256240402012-10-19T19:19:00.000-07:002012-10-19T19:20:48.514-07:00Being a teacher means....<i>After two days at a teacher conference with amazing people and amazing speakers, I couldn't resist a little poem about what teachers do! Hope you enjoy!</i><br />
<br />
<b>Being a teacher means...</b><br />
...your work is not done when the last hour bell rings<br />
...you get gifts from your students -- sometimes <i>very</i> interesting things<br />
...your mind is inspired at strange times and places<br />
(Who gets an idea from looking at ice freezer cases?!)<br />
...you get up early for duties and faculty meetings<br />
...your subjects include topics like honesty and cheating<br />
...you wonder how the weather will effect your classroom<br />
(Or if you're nuts 'cause you dread the coming of a full moon)<br />
...you are lavished with sneezes, coughs, and sanitizer goo<br />
But also with hugs, high fives and "I love you's"<br />
...you work with talented people who let you come steal their stuff<br />
And encourage you when you think you've finally had enough<br />
...you get to teach astronauts, writers and future leaders of the world<br />
But they show up in your classroom as simply ordinary boys and girls<br />
<br />
Being a teacher means every day is a surprise<br />
And its a blessing from God to touch these kids lives!<br />
<br />Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-57255990130601635372012-10-18T17:44:00.000-07:002012-10-18T17:44:06.572-07:00My Favorite TeacherWho was your favorite?<br />
For me there were many<br />
From funny to inspiring<br />
To loving -- I've had plenty<br />
<i>Seidl</i> and <i>Christner</i><br />
Were fun and exciting<br />
And for Kindergarten<br />
<i>Mrs. Isin</i> was uniquely inviting<br />
<i>Fritzmeier</i> loved me<br />
When I longed for a friend<br />
<i>Cutright</i> found dyslexia<br />
And offered to lend<br />
Her help and support<br />
To a kid struggling to learn<br />
So that later in life<br />
For education I would yearn<br />
When <i>Salem</i> and <i>Smith</i><br />
Taught me problems in math<br />
I would find them a blessing<br />
And mastering a blast<br />
As <i>Bennington</i> showed me<br />
History was entertaining<br />
My attention was sparked<br />
Never dulled or waning<br />
<i>Warner</i> revealed<br />
Personality can be key<br />
I took a class just to meet her<br />
In her presence I longed to be<br />
All of these teachers<br />
Different subjects, different styles<br />
Planted a seed inside me<br />
That has lasted quite a while<br />
Now I'm in the classroom<br />
And I love the kids I teach<br />
I try to harness from past teachers<br />
Kids hearts (and brains) I hope to reach<br />
Who was your favorite?<br />
Did a teacher touch you?<br />
I know I am thankful<br />
So to all my teachers....THANK YOU!Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-4418254309356770452012-09-22T15:30:00.000-07:002012-09-22T15:30:45.801-07:00TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE <br />
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As many of you know, I am the mother of two very energetic
boys. As I write this post, my boys are
ages five and seven (or kindergarten and
2<sup>nd</sup> grade). What frustrates
me the most about being a mother is the fact that my kids don’t come with an
instruction manual. I feel like I am
constantly trying to figure out how to best to communicate to them, discipline
them, even show them love. Though they are both boys, their
personalities couldn’t be more different.
What works with one, DOES NOT work with the other. (I am sensing every mother reading this
giving me a “amen sister!” to that last sentence, am I right?!)</div>
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<br /></div>
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I can’t tell you how many times I would kill for a trouble
shooting guide. Please read my fantasy below...</div>
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<br /></div>
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“<i>For a kid throwing fit in Walmart, turn to page 216. Complete steps 1-4 for complete compliance of
child.</i>” Wouldn’t that be great? It could even be broken down into sections
for first, second and third-born children.
“<i>If your child is the baby of the family, use bribery whenever
possible. If your child is a first
born….why are you reading this guide?
This child always follows the rules…</i>”</div>
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<br /></div>
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I think you get my point.</div>
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<br /></div>
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My children are obviously not that old and since I haven’t
even hit the teen years, I know my frustrations have yet to begin. I have very little figured out as a mother,
but one thing I have found is that though I am trying to teach my kids, my kids
are teaching me as well. (Sometimes I
think THEY are the ones who have the troubleshooting guide….they know my buttons
better than I do!) A wise woman, named
<a href="http://www.tamiboesiger.blogspot.com/">Tami Boesiger</a>, once told me I could learn FROM my children. Taking her words to heart, I realized that I
have learned from my kids. My oldest has
taught me the importance of following the rules and how good behavior pays off.
My youngest has shown me that even the
smallest step of progress is worth celebrating and dandelions can be the most
amazing gift.</div>
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<br /></div>
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But then there are other lessons….</div>
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<br /></div>
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My children are blessed to attend a Christian school. As a parent, I have visions of the perfect
Christian behavior THEY will learn and all the biblical learning THEY will
receive. I believe there is no limit to
all THEY will be gaining from their Christian education. A few weeks ago, I had a weak moment and lost
my temper with my seven year old. After
I gave him a tongue lashing, his words hit me like dynamite. He looked at me and said, “Mom! Don’t you
remember what Proverbs says? A harsh word stirs up anger!” Ouch. (When did this Christian education start
teaching ME?!) Way to teach mommy, kid.
And hats off you to God. You gave
this momma one lesson she won’t ever forget.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I may not ever get my trouble-shooting guide to raising
children in book form. But, I do believe
Tami is right, I can learn FROM my children and in the process become a better
parent FOR them. The Lord does work in
mysterious ways, doesn’t he?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am the mother of two little boys</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So much dirt and excessive amounts of noise</div>
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I never know quite what to do</div>
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Or how to survive situations motherhood puts me through</div>
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But I have been blessed</div>
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Despite my many failed tests</div>
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God gave me two boys to raise</div>
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And every day I give Him praise</div>
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Out of all the lessons I have learned</div>
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I know some things in life can’t be discerned</div>
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Each day must be taken one at a time</div>
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Relying on God, everything will be just fine </div>
Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-24604648718449474052012-09-11T20:16:00.002-07:002012-09-11T20:16:39.306-07:00I'm BAAAACCK!!!So, I didn't die<br />
Just went back to work<br />
I can not tell a lie<br />
Life is now quite biserk<br />
I'm teaching once again<br />
Kids grades 7th and 8th<br />
The days are very hectic<br />
But the life sure is great<br />
I'm gonna start re-sharing<br />
But not always in a rhyme<br />
I've still "ditched the kitchen"<br />
But a little different this time<br />
I'm finding my small world<br />
Filled with funny conversation<br />
I hope you will enjoy<br />
My style of preservation<br />
We live with funny people<br />
They're every where we go<br />
But do we stop to appreciate<br />
The humor they bestow?<br />
I hope you'll keep on reading<br />
And take time for a laugh<br />
I've got some stories for you<br />
But now it's time to take my bath!<br />
<br />
Missed you blogger friends!<br />
<br />
<br />
Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-66318160096748288042011-08-22T15:46:00.000-07:002011-08-22T15:48:51.233-07:00After School SnacksAfter school my two boys
<br />Age six and age four
<br />Can't seem to eat enough
<br />They always want more
<br />A trip to the market
<br />A dozen treats I do buy
<br />And yet after two days
<br />All my shelves become dry
<br />I understand they are growing
<br />And they need to be fed
<br />But at this rate I'm nervous
<br />And here's what I dread...
<br />What happens when these "boys"
<br />Turn into two "teens"
<br />If you are a parent
<br />Do you see what I mean?
<br />The Lord will provide
<br />In Him I will trust
<br />But if I am a wise woman
<br />Stock in Hy-Vee is a must.
<br />Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-58083361742982937672010-12-10T09:39:00.000-08:002010-12-10T09:42:20.170-08:00The Uh-Huh Syndrome<div class="post-body entry-content"> <span style="font-style: italic;">I'm working from home today with a sick little boy. I thought of this poem as I've said, "uh huh" way too many times today already and I'm wondering what I've agreed to that I'll find out later today (or this week!) Hope this all finds you well!</span><br /><br />Those with small children<br />Do you suffer from this disease?<br />When your child is non-stop-talking<br />Do you “uh-huh” them just to please?<br />My oldest is a talker<br />Of this there is no doubt<br />He can ramble on forever<br />When there’s nothing to talk about<br /><em>“Mom, did you know there’s a bird on our tree?”<br />“It’s black….no, it's blue….wait, it's red!”<br /></em>My lips call out “uh-huh” to my boy<br />And I systematically nod my head<br /><em>“Mom do you know what my favorite animal is?”<br />“It’s a bird…no a dog…can we get some fish?”<br /></em>I reply back “uh-huh” once again<br />As I finish my grocery list<br />Off to the store he talks from the back seat<br /><em>“That cloud looks like a car in the sky”<br />“When we’re at the store can we look at the toys?”<br />“There’s some Hot Wheels I’d like to buy”<br /></em>Once again I reply “uh-huh” to his words<br />Unaware of my disease’s progression<br />Until at the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Walmart</span> in the pet food aisle<br />Do I learn a most dreadful lesson….<br /><br /><em>“Can we get my little fish now? I want to hold him while we shop.”<br />“I think I like the red ones the best. See them in the aquarium at the top?”<br /></em>For some reason these statements jerk me awake<br />Why does my son assume there are fish we will take???<br /><br />Then I think back --<br />I remember some of his words<br />Favorite animals listed….<br />The colors of birds…<br />Oh, no I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">didn</span>’t!<br />I agreed to buy fish!<br />Did he also say Hot Wheels?<br />Tell me I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">didn</span>’t do this!!<br />How do I fix the predicament I’m in?<br />Do I lie, or back out?<br />In defeat, I give in.<br /><br />TAKE HEED TO THIS STORY<br />Don’t let this syndrome get you<br />Or you could end up like me<br />With a bowl of red fish too. </div> <span class="post-author vcard"> </span>Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-91724524344255887652010-12-07T08:11:00.000-08:002010-12-07T08:13:33.948-08:00MEAN PARENTS<span style="font-style: italic;">Hello my dear blogger friends! Forgive my absence....Jaime got a day job so little time for silly writing. I love this time of year and found some of my old Christmas writings. Though I have posted these before, I hope they will still make you giggle! Merry Christmas friends!</span><br /><br />My husband and I are evil<br />This we truly are<br />We've been lying to our son<br />Perhaps taking things too far<br />Our oldest believes in Santa<br />We've told him he exists<br />But it's not just the myth of Santa<br />Or the nice and naughty lists<br />No, we've taken things much further<br />Than just a simple, small, white lie<br />And have used it to our benefit<br />To get him to comply<br />Whenever the little man pouts<br />Or starts to misbehave<br />We tell him we're calling Santa<br />As we give our phone a wave<br />To this he vows perfection<br />And that he'll stop behaving bad<br />We've even faked a conversation<br />(I know our actions are quite sad...)<br />What we're doing to our son<br />Has made me question a simple truth<br />If kids claim their parents mean<br />Should we believe our complaining youth?<br />As for now, my spouse and I<br />Will probably keep on with the fibbing<br />Parenting has a learning curve<br />With plenty of ad-libbing.Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-30071456665004383172010-06-14T10:41:00.001-07:002010-06-14T10:43:22.839-07:00Good ConversationI watched my boys today<br />Standing side by side<br />They'd been playing in the yard<br />And giggling down the slide<br />But something made them stop<br />And take the time to chat<br />Little did they know<br />I was watching where I sat<br />But Mother Nature calls<br />And when you're a boy age five and three<br />You can have a good conversation<br />While you take the time to pee!Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-35757064712213348422010-06-14T10:38:00.000-07:002010-06-14T10:41:04.130-07:00Summer time is here!Our family is outside<br />A lot this time of year<br />The kids play and get dirty<br />As Mommy's yard work's in full gear<br />My blog posts will be wanning<br />As Nature calls my name<br />I can't keep up the yard work<br />And stay in the blogging game<br />But I will still post my updates<br />Though their numbers will be few<br />The weeds are calling out to me<br />As I end this rhyme to you!Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-80156427214018989902010-06-10T08:25:00.000-07:002010-06-10T09:17:55.166-07:00WEIGH DOWN DIET week 24WHERE'S SHE BEEN??<br /><br />I know, I know....I missed a couple of weeks didn't I? Well, here I am back again to inform you that nothing much has changed. (Except a slight tan line on my shoulders...) Summer has arrived in Nebraska and therefore, there is much to do outdoors. (Jaime hasn't been on the computer much, but she has been working in her yard and playing outside with the kids!) This will probably be the case for the rest of the summer...I'm just warning you now. I will still keep you updated on my progress, but I may miss a few weeks here an there. I love this time of year despite all the heat because this is the time of year (spring/summer) where God is in full bloom! It is amazing to me all the beautiful flowers and wonderful smells he blesses us with during our spring and summer months. As a kid, I used to hate yard work. (I was sure making me mow the lawn was my parent's way of punishing me and getting their own work done in the process!) Now, I find such joy in weed pulling, pruning, and any other work to make my yard more luscious!<br /><br />Okay, so enough about yard work....what about losing weight?<br /><br />I am unchanged in my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">weight loss</span>. I am feeling stuck. I prayed a pretty desperate prayer to God this morning that I would be able to deny myself even more than I have been. Summer, though fun for kids and me as I work outside, comes with little scheduling and lots of free time. What do us chubby girls do when we have free time? Look in the cabinets for something to munch on! Thankfully, God has blessed me with a conscience, but I do think lack of scheduling has made this temptation so much worse. <br /><br />I am also struggling with the fact that though I may eat within the realm of hunger and fullness (90% of the time....) Food still has a power over my brain. I am praying that God will help me get past this. Those of you who are familiar with the Weigh Down principles understand what I'm talking about here....I hope. Here's the best way I can describe it. In all my life, I have never wanted to smoke a cigarette. I know there are many people who are terribly addicted to this cylindrical tobacco filled item. They try to quit but can't. They are constantly drawn to it. But I am not. There is absolutely no pull there for me. I don't want to buy them or smoke them. I want so badly to have the same relationship with food. I don't want to think about the food I just bought at the store sitting in my cupboard or fridge. I don't want to salivate at the thought of when dinner will be here. This is my current unanswered prayer. God will get me there so long as I give it to him!<br /><br /><u>1 Corinthians 10:13</u><br /><em>No <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">temptation</span> has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a away out so that you can stand up under it.</em><br /><br />25 POUNDS LOSTJaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-88830068258750243712010-05-27T06:31:00.000-07:002010-05-27T06:37:14.839-07:00My Cup Overflowsby: Margaret E. Barber<br /><br />There is always something "over"<br />When we trust our gracious Lord;<br />Every cup is overflowing,<br />His great rivers all are broad<br />Nothing narrow, nothing sparing,<br />Ever springing from His store<br />To His own He gives full measure,<br />Overflowing, evermore<br /><br />There is always something "over"<br />When we, from the Father's hand<br />Take our portion with thanksgiving,<br />Praising for the path he planned.<br />Satisfaction, full and deepening,<br />Fills the soul, and lights the eye<br />When the heart has trusted Jesus<br />All its needs to satisfy<br /><br />There is always something "over"<br />When we tell of all His love<br />Unreached depths still lie beneath us,<br />Unscaled heights rise far above;<br />Human lips can never utter<br />All His wondrous tenderness,<br />We can only praise and wonder,<br />And His name forever blessJaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-82459569084315872012010-05-27T06:21:00.001-07:002010-05-27T06:31:19.486-07:00WEIGH DOWN DIET week 21Well, for some reason I just can't seem to get passed the 25 pound mark. I have not given up, but continue to be frustrated as I get on the scales and see no change. I guess, God is placing me in a time of waiting and I need to be patient and follow his guidance.<br /><br />I do have blessings over flowing in my life right now. Though I cannot go into detail, God has blessed our family beyond measure with an opportunity we so desperately needed. He is teaching me that he will meet our needs. If you are struggling in your life or experiencing a time of waiting or sorrow, take it to God. God delights in taking care of his children just as we delight in taking care of our own children. And something he is teaching me is that HIS plan is perfect, not mine.<br /><br />Tomorrow I travel down to Kansas for my 15 year class reunion. Though I was hoping to be a bit thinner than I am, God has blessed me with the loss of 25 pounds and for this I cannot complain! I am so looking forward to seeing old friends!<br /><br /><em><strong><u>Philippians 4:19</u></strong></em><br /><em><strong>My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus</strong></em><br /><em><strong></strong></em><br /><em><strong><u>Jeremiah 29:11</u></strong></em><br /><em><strong>For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.</strong></em><br /><br /><br />25 POUNDS LOST 1 DAY TO GOJaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-30403645648830593182010-05-18T08:12:00.000-07:002010-05-18T08:29:50.296-07:00WEIGH DOWN DIET week 20Hello friends! Thanks to another round of the stomach flu in our home, I am back down my five pounds! As miserable as I was when puking my guts up on Sunday, I found it gave me time to read my Bible and pray. I don't know for sure, but I think God used this time to "re-start" me! I was telling my friend Margery that after this bout with the flu, God truly did "empty" me! Also, I as I stated last week, my walk with Him hasn't been as close. I still do my devotions everyday, but not like I used to - in the early morning hours while the house is asleep. There is something magical about that time and though I have continued to read my Bible and read my devotions and pray, when I do it with two small boys clanking around the house, my focus isn't COMPLETELY on Him. I was able to have that quiet time as I moaned and groaned in bed on Sunday with the flu. (You know how you feel....you want to die, but unfortunately you know you're going to survive it?) Yesterday, I was able to continue to find that "empty" feeling before eating. This morning I was able to have that time with God uninterrupted before the house woke up. Oh, I'm a slow learner, but at least I am still learning! I'm sticking with my Jeremiah verse again this week....it is so uplifting and encouraging. God wants me (and you) to succeed!<br />Have a great week!<br /><br /><u><em>Jeremiah 29:11</em></u><br /><em>"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."</em><br /><br />25 POUND LOST 9 DAYS TO GO<br /><br />If you are interested in learning more about the Weigh Down Diet and it's Biblical principles click <a href="http://www.weighdown.com/">here</a>.Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-60514802601822994682010-05-13T11:27:00.001-07:002010-05-13T11:37:51.870-07:00WIEGH DOWN DIET week 19Okay, this is going to be short and sweet as I am limited on time this week! (And unfortunately, I am not overly giddy to be reporting again...)<br /><br />I must really like those five pounds, because I keep adding them back on (and off and on and off and back on again!) UGH! I will admit to you that though two weeks ago I was able to do good and get them off, this last week I have not weighed in the mornings or read much in my Rise Above book. There are no excuses. Just because I have been busy (and will continue to be busy throughout the month of May) does not mean I can't still listen to my body. Instead, I have listened to my head.<br /><br />I sat down this morning and prayed with all sincerity that God would help me keep him #1 in my mind...not just this week, but throughout the rest of this busy month (well, and obviously throughout the rest of my life!) Last week, God was ranking somewhere around #2 or #3 for me. And, it shows.<br /><br />So, here I go again....gonna try to lose those blasted five pounds AGAIN!! (You'd think simply because I don't like to repeat awful chores, I'd quit doing this, wouldn't you?)<br /><br />For a number of reasons, this is the verse God has placed on my heart. For <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">weight loss</span>, it is my reminder that as long as I keep focusing on him, his plan for me will help me succeed in this battle! Until next week, faithful readers!<br /><br /><u><strong><em>Jeremiah 29:11</em></strong></u><br /><strong><em>"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."</em></strong><br /><br />20 POUNDS LOST 15 DAYS TO GOJaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-39544199539855418512010-05-07T12:36:00.000-07:002010-05-07T12:45:05.520-07:00I FORGOT!!!I am a dork! I can't believe I forgot!<br />I didn't mention a gal I really like a LOT!<br />It is because of this woman I wrote my last post<br />Then I go and forget her as if she was a ghost<br />Please check out Lisa at <a href="http://arrogantrat.blogspot.com/">Bombastic Bandicoot</a><br />I promise her posts will give you a hoot!<br />She is a remarkable photographer as you will soon see<br />A lovable woman, God made perfectly<br />Visit her blog and I promise you'll be touched<br />I doubt there's another blogger who ((hugs)) commenters as much!<br /><br />Readers,<br />Please do check out Lisa's blog today. She is one of the most precious women I have met in the blogger world. She reaches out to you as much as you reach out to her. And, if any of you have any interest in photography -- she's your gal! I swear that woman can make a bowl of peas interesting! I feel so badly that I forgot to mention her in my last post. I got so caught up making everything rhyme, I didn't give credit to the one who tagged me! Check her out -- truly you won't regret taking the time to pay her a visit!Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-45734282275349569592010-05-06T10:26:00.000-07:002010-05-06T11:36:32.228-07:00I'VE BEEN TAGGED!!I have been tagged<br />By a dear blogger friend<br />In a little blogging game<br />Five questions she did send<br />With each question<br />I must respond five times<br />With an answer that explains<br />(And I'm hoping mine rhymes!)<br />So read on curious friend<br />If you're <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">intrigued</span> to know more<br />Facts about this blogger<br />There's not much, that's for sure!<br /><br /><u>WHERE WERE YOU FIVE YEARS AGO?</u><br />1) My location five years ago<br />Was Wichita, Kansas (remember Toto?)<br />2) I was also a new mom full of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">OOOs</span> and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ahhhs</span><br />My precious baby could easily make me pause<br />3) I was teaching 8<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> grade <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">science</span> - I loved it, this I swear<br />Though now that I am home, it's my boys that need my care<br />4) I graduated in this month almost to the day<br />A master's degree in counseling - I hope to use it in some way<br />5) My high school class was celebrating 10 years of being out<br />Now it's been 15 years - what's this aging stuff all about?<br /><br /><u>WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE FIVE YEARS FROM NOW?</u><br />1) I hope our address forever stays the same<br />Though many might consider the mid-west a bit lame<br />We are in love with our modest country home<br />And I know we are happy and will never want to roam<br /><br />2) I might be planning another class reunion<br />It seems our class enjoys the 5 year type communion<br />Though by then it will be 20 years<br />And I'll be an age that even now I dread and fear!<br /><br />3) Maybe I'll be back in the public teaching field<br />Teaching to my students all that science has to yield<br />Helping middle <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">schoolers</span> think that school is fun<br />If I can manage this, I'll consider my life's work as done!<br /><br />4)Just for fun I will dream a bit big with the number four<br />Maybe I'll have a best-selling book somewhere in a bookish store<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Obviously my book will be the novelty type</span><br />Do you think my silly poems could be the next reading hype?!<br /><br />5)No matter where I am or even what I am doing<br />The Lord's will and His Word - I will forever be pursuing<br />God has blessed my life so much - I am lucky enough to say<br />I'll be thankful and praising His name each and every day!<br /><br /><u>WHAT IS ON YOUR 'TO DO' LIST TODAY?</u><br />1) I have some laundry that needs to be done<br />2) Followed by laundry I missed in round one<br />3) Then in case I wanted to do more<br />There is some laundry I found on the floor<br />4) I might take a break and add spice to my day<br />By folding some laundry and then put it away<br />5) <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ahh</span>, the fun things that I get to do<br />Running around being the mother of two!<br /><br /><u>WHAT FIVE SNACKS DO YOU ENJOY?</u><br />1) I am a lover of the licorice snack Nibs<br />2) I also like <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">CornNuts</span> - this I can't fib<br />3) I most always have some type of fruit in my fridge<br />4)And a blueberry bagel with cream cheese on the ridge<br />5) Finally, I'm a sucker - no ifs, ands, or buts<br />For just about any kind of salt coated nut<br /><br /><u>WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WERE A <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">BILLIONAIRE</span>?</u><br />1) First I would wonder, "What in the world?"<br />"Why would God bless, THIS silly girl?"<br />2) I would give hefty donations to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">KLOVE</span> and Family Life<br />As they brought encouragement to this (sometimes) struggling wife<br />3) I would want to make sure my loved ones were set<br />My parents and mother-in-law are as good as they get<br />4) Pay off any debt, and put the rest in the bank<br />5) Go on living the same - remembering the ONE I should thank!<br /><br />These are the facts about little <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">ol</span>' me<br />Not overly exciting, as you can now see<br /><br />My turn to tag, oh who will it be?<br />Let's try <a href="http://www.fivewalkers.com/">Christina</a>, <a href="http://danadebard.blogspot.com/">Dana</a>, <a href="http://eternityinyourheart.blogspot.com/">Sarah</a>, <a href="http://christiancognition.blogspot.com/">Mike</a> and <a href="http://tamiboesiger.blogspot.com/">Tami</a>!Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-65143788484593437352010-05-06T07:54:00.000-07:002010-05-06T08:35:29.149-07:00WEIGH DOWN DIET week 18I have to report first and foremost, that I am back down to the '25 POUNDS LOST' mark once again! Praise God!! I do think God is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">gettin</span>' in my head and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">helpin</span>' me out....this is a wonderful thing!<br /><br />As I mentioned last week, I started reading <u>Rise Above</u> by Gwen <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Shamblin</span>. It is a wonderful read and very hard to put down. (In fact, I should have written this post yesterday, but used my blogging time to read her book....oops!) So much of what she offers up is so practical. For instance, we (dieters) have made such a big deal about our food. What to eat, what not to eat, what diet to try, what diet not to try...etc. If you think about it though, we don't put any effort or thought into how much air we breathe. We just do it. We don't think, "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hmm</span>, I'm getting a little low on oxygen right now....I'd better take a gulp of air." "Gee, I wonder how much air I should breathe in? Do you think this is too much....(inhale, inhale, inhale!)" We just breathe. We enjoy the fact that God, our creator, designed a perfect body that works as it should. Eating can be the same way so long as we get our focus OFF of food and ON TO God.<br /><br />She also points out that we have <em>responsibility</em>....the <em>ability</em> to make a <em>response</em>. We have been given a heart that can make a choice. What are we going to fixate on all day? Counting calories? How much food we can binge on? How much exercise we need to stay slim? Or God? (Keep in mind I do not think exercise is wrong or bad, but if it is a means to allow your heart to still be addicted to food, then I do believe you are exercising for the wrong reasons. If exercising is the only way to stay slim, then that means people bound by wheelchairs can never lose weight. As I have seen, those who are unable to exercise CAN LOSE WEIGHT!)<br /><br />Genesis 4:6-7 tells us: <em>"Then the Lord said to Cain, 'Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it.'"</em> I can master the sin of greed for food. I do believe God gave us a heart to be addicted - He just intended the addiction to be for Him! <br /><br />I am already writing so much more than I intended, but if you can tell, this book has really got the gears in my brain a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">twitchin</span>'! All of my issues with food (or any other addiction I may have) starts with my mind. My mind should be on God and what He wants. If my mind is on what I want, then I am being controlled by my sinful nature. I need to ask God what He wants EVERY day.<br /><br />Okay, this may be a lot for some of my readers to take in, but I have just been overwhelmed by the ideas in this book. I hope I wasn't too haphazard in presenting what I read. I would STRONGLY encourage anyone reading this post (who struggles with any addiction) to buy this book. I really do think all of us have some kind of addiction -- there is much to be addicted to! What do you struggle with? Maybe it's not food, but alcohol, cigarettes, materialistic items, money, stealing, lying, being lazy, watching too much TV, etc....the list can go on and on! God can help you with whatever causes you to stumble. (okay, I'm done now...let me kick my soap box back over here in the corner.)<br /><br />I'm <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">stickin</span>' with my verse from last week -- though it is short, I still believe it is powerful!<br /><br /><u>1 Thessalonians 5:6</u><br /><em>So then, let us not be like others who are asleep but let us be alert and self-controlled.</em><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">25 POUNDS LOST 21 DAYS TO GO!!</span></strong>Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-23650198342739064302010-04-30T13:38:00.000-07:002010-04-30T13:48:04.917-07:00The Y FactorI'm slowly learning about male DNA<br />And why my sons act a certain way<br />For instance with my two little boys<br />Every puddle around is seen as a toy<br />I think it is a Y chromosome trait<br />Their little brains process puddles as great!<br />Like just today in a parking lot<br />My boys thought they had hit the jackpot<br />Puddles here...and puddles there...<br />Puddles pudd'ling everywhere!<br />Though we parked right by the store<br />It took TWENTY minutes to reach the door<br />And then, as if taken by complete surprise<br />My oldest son yelled out this cry:<br /><em>"Oh no! Mom, now my pants are wet!"</em><br /><br />Another Y trait? Males are quick to forget.Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-51694821391586060622010-04-28T16:20:00.000-07:002010-04-28T16:31:05.982-07:00KINDERGARTEN!!My oldest son starts kindergarten next year<br />He is so excited -- it is me who has fears<br />I worry about his first ride on the bus<br />Will the big kids be nice or be scary and cuss?<br />What about when he gets to school?<br />Will the other kids think my kid is cool?<br />Will he behave? And what about his teacher?<br />Will she see my son as sweet or a menacing creature?<br />Will he be good? A <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">conscientious</span> student?<br />Will he understand? Will he be prudent?<br /><br />Oh this day! I dread in my mind!<br />But when I am rational (?) I (think) he'll be fine...<br /><br />Just yesterday was kindergarten round up<br />His two concerns he openly 'fessed up<br /><em>"Does the big school have bathrooms if I need to pee?"</em><br /><em>"Will we play outside? What time will that be?"</em><br />These are the worries of my five-year-old son<br />I suppose they are logical for a wee little one<br />For him - the most important things to know<br />Are where to play and where to "go"<br />I'm sure my kid will do just fine<br />I am the one who will worry and whine<br /><em>Lord, be with my son as he starts school next year</em><br /><em>(And be with his mother, as she deals with her fears!)</em>Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-48062786143133318542010-04-28T16:15:00.000-07:002010-04-28T16:34:43.676-07:00Junior can count!My two year old can count to ten<br />The way he learned may shock you when --<br />I tell you that what we do in our house<br />Is count to ten before punishment is doused<br />While we count, the kids must go to their room<br />There they wait for discipline's doom<br />I've been counting quite a bit these days<br />My oldest is struggling in his "behaving" ways<br />So little Junior did learn from his mother<br />How to count to ten because of an ill-behaved brother<br />Have any of you ever "taught" in this way?<br />An unintentional lesson through what you say?<br /><br />I've got to admit, when his counting I heard...<br />It made me wonder, what's louder? Actions or words?Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-65922097353309517782010-04-28T06:59:00.001-07:002010-04-28T07:54:25.104-07:00WEIGH DOWN DIET week 17Ever had to break bad news to someone? Ever had to break the bad news to yourself? Neither are fun, and today I feel like I'm doing both. Breaking bad news to my readers and to myself. It's probably easier for you to hear/read than it is for me to write.<br /><br />I am unchanged in my weight as of this morning. I am frustrated with myself that I continue to allow my greed to overtake me. I have been trying to figure out where I keep failing. I actually do quite well during the day. I always wait for hunger. Usually, during the day my boys keep me pretty busy so I don't have much time to even think about food. My biggest struggle comes from eating at night with the family. I do wait until I'm hungry, but when the meal is placed before me, I do not stop when I am full.....I just keep shoveling it in. (And honestly, I don't know why - the food isn't that good as I'm not a good cook!) But that's what I'm doing. I can give you every excuse in the world:<br /><br />1) It's the end of the day and I'm tired....I let my guard down<br /><br />2) I am so distracted by the million things that always seem to happen once the hubby comes home<br /><br />3) I like sitting at the table as long as I can so that Mr. Wonderful and I can catch up...as I do, I feel like I must keep eating<br /><br />4) Excuses<br /><br />5) Excuses<br /><br />6) Excuses<br /><br /><br /><br />Should I go on?<br /><br />I have GOT to change things up. I feel like I have been sleeping these past three weeks. ENOUGH! Time to WAKE UP! Here's what I am going to do to be more alert.<br /><br />ONE, I ordered the <a href="http://www.gwenshamblin.com/">Gwen <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Shamblin's</span></a> book <u>Rise Above</u> and it arrived on Monday. I have yet to read it, but I am starting today. I know that any time I'm reading a book, the words tend to linger in my mind throughout the day. That's why I like reading my Bible first thing in the morning. The words stay with me throughout the day.<br /><br />TWO, thus far I have only weighed once a week. I was afraid if I weighed daily I would get discouraged when I saw no change on the scales. I am going start weighing every morning first thing (and then follow it with a STRONG cup of coffee!) I hope this will also help keep me more focused.<br /><br />THREE, I have a new verse I am going to memorize. It's not long. It's not profound. It is something I feel I can continually say to myself throughout the day.<br /><br /><u><strong><em>1 Thessalonians 5:6</em></strong></u><br /><strong><em>So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled</em></strong><br /><br />Until we meet again, my friends!<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">21 POUNDS LOST 30 DAYS TO GO!</span></strong>Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-41241415824395064092010-04-22T12:50:00.000-07:002010-04-22T13:14:55.996-07:00The "Uh-huh" SyndromeThose with small children<br />Do you suffer from this disease?<br />When your child is non-stop-talking<br />Do you “uh-huh” them just to please?<br />My oldest is a talker<br />Of this there is no doubt<br />He can ramble on forever<br />When there’s nothing to talk about<br /><em>“Mom, did you know there’s a bird on our tree?”<br />“It’s black….no, it's blue….wait, it's red!”<br /></em>My lips call out “uh-huh” to my boy<br />And I systematically nod my head<br /><em>“Mom do you know what my favorite animal is?”<br />“It’s a bird…no a dog…can we get some fish?”<br /></em>I reply back “uh-huh” once again<br />As I finish my grocery list<br />Off to the store he talks from the back seat<br /><em>“That cloud looks like a car in the sky”<br />“When we’re at the store can we look at the toys?”<br />“There’s some Hot Wheels I’d like to buy”<br /></em>Once again I reply “uh-huh” to his words<br />Unaware of my disease’s progression<br />Until at the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Walmart</span> in the pet food aisle<br />Do I learn a most dreadful lesson….<br /><br /><em>“Can we get my little fish now? I want to hold him while we shop.”<br />“I think I like the red ones the best. See them in the aquarium at the top?”<br /></em>For some reason these statements jerk me awake<br />Why does my son assume there are fish we will take???<br /><br />Then I think back --<br />I remember some of his words<br />Favorite animals listed….<br />The colors of birds…<br />Oh, no I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">didn</span>’t!<br />I agreed to buy fish!<br />Did he also say Hot Wheels?<br />Tell me I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">didn</span>’t do this!!<br />How do I fix the predicament I’m in?<br />Do I lie, or back out?<br />In defeat, I give in.<br /><br />TAKE HEED TO THIS STORY<br />Don’t let this syndrome get you<br />Or you could end up like me<br />With a bowl of red fish too.Jaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4020287546191729113.post-43950340847665537132010-04-22T11:20:00.001-07:002010-04-22T11:34:56.747-07:00WEIGH DOWN DIET week 16Okay, I was scared to do it, but I got on the scales today. My fears were confirmed, I was up four pounds. Uuuugggghhhh! But, what can I do? I could mope about it (I kind of did this morning....) Or, realize that I haven't been keeping my eyes on Him and turn things around!<br /><br />I have been reading in Matthew and this mornings scriptures SCREAMED at me! I was reading Matthew 23....verse 25 hit me right between the eyeballs<br /><br /><strong>"Woe to you teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence."</strong><br /><br />Now, who ever wants to be compared to a Pharisee? Not I! And yet, this is how I have been acting. I hate to leave the house without my hair done or my make-up on, but when I sit down to the dinner table, I don't think twice about stuffing my face even when my body has given me a clear sign that I am full. Hmmm.....maybe Jaime has some house-keeping issues. Take the vacuum to the greed and dust down the self-indulgence. Be gone!<br /><br />I will be back next week - with a "cleaner" inside and hopefully better news to report!<br /><br />Lamentations 3: 22-23 "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness!"<br /><br />21 POUNDS LOST 36 DAYS TO GOJaime Kubikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01801402272245646195noreply@blogger.com2