tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20904428682779374712012-02-12T20:01:52.774-08:00In loving memory of Ethan Joshua Wallace, a child of God who exemplified the Golden Rule and walked the straight path to God. Matthew 7:12 and Proverbs 3:5-6Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.comBlogger601100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-59810368456597744312012-02-11T14:59:00.000-08:002012-02-11T14:59:13.222-08:00

Have you ever gone on a cleaning spree a few hours or a day before expecting guests at your home?  Come on, you know that you have!  Haven't we all?  Today while folding laundry in our bedroom, God laid on my heart that He is most important.  What He thinks matters most.  But who are we always trying to impress or make think that we are tidy housekeepers?  Is it our friends, or is it the most

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-49279904943478257512012-02-05T19:39:00.000-08:002012-02-05T19:39:53.666-08:00

It's absolutely hard to believe that 20 months have gone by since we last saw our precious Ethan.  It seems like yesterday, and yet it seems like forever ago since we heard his voice and saw his innocent smile.  Life goes on, but not a day goes by that Ethan's name is mentioned fondly, whether I accidentally call Evan by his brother's name (which, by the way, Evan adores!), Evan talks about his

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-84189705020919749102012-01-15T19:34:00.000-08:002012-01-15T19:34:14.411-08:00

Little did I know that some of the faces that I saw around the Air Force base (where we used to live) would become life long friends.  People I would see mainly at the elementary school on base where I would drop off and pick up my then, daycare children.  These people didn't know it, nor did I, that Ethan would impact their lives forever. One person in particular who was there the night of the

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-91062369636255304432012-01-13T07:14:00.000-08:002012-01-13T07:14:31.215-08:00

If you read my post from a couple of days ago, I wrote about fear, and mentioned Max Lucado's Fear Not Devotional.  In that particular devotion, Max wrote about not focusing on the worries ahead, but the victories of the past.  I like that, and what he has written has inspired me to focus on the victories.  Perhaps focusing on victories will help to not focus on fears. Would you join me in

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-67924473690737746552012-01-10T08:03:00.000-08:002012-01-10T08:03:09.135-08:00

I think fear is something that most of us have or do struggle with on a pretty regular basis.  Especially if we have survived a very traumatic experience, or have faced health issues, etc.  But do we talk about it?  I don't think a lot of us do.  In our society, I believe people who are perceived as weak are looked down upon, therefore, we don't express fear.  Even more sad, I think there is this

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-18539739181171816312012-01-08T15:23:00.000-08:002012-01-08T15:23:21.584-08:00

(A very late post.  Was originally written 9-10-11, but I forgot to publish it) Today Josh, Evan and I took a family outting to McAllister Park here in San Antonio to bike the trails.  We ended up doing a little over 7 miles, which to my amazement, is a lot for a 5 year old!  The whole bike ride, I kept looking at Evan and thinking how cute he is, and how full of energy and strength and

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-15921372377156409252011-11-12T13:17:00.000-08:002011-11-12T13:17:28.205-08:00

Hey friends!  I haven't written in a while, simply because I don't know what to say sometimes.  And when I do know what to say, I am not sure I want to share it with the public.  But I am reminded that my purpose and ministry besides being a wife and mother and teacher is to minister to bereaved mothers (and fathers too).  If I write about my grief journey, it just may help that someone out there

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-6301885373406117122011-10-22T16:56:00.000-07:002011-10-22T16:56:17.642-07:00

Evan turned six years old yesterday!  Praise the Lord!!! He was born around 0630 at Lackland AFB, TX and he weighed in at 7lbs. 4oz (the same as his mommy and his big brother Ethan), on 21 Oct 2005. Little did I know how different this little guy would be from his big brother.  How naive I was...thinking ALL babies were the same!  Let's just say that this sweet boy was momma's challenge. 

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-58089485245208092042011-09-09T19:02:00.000-07:002011-09-09T19:02:13.885-07:00

As parents who have been through the loss of a child, both Josh and I have had some very hard, emotional, and trying days.  However, when you think your situation is bad, there is someone else out there 1000 times worse off than yourself. A week ago, an innocent teenage girl was brutally abducted and murdered in Las Vegas.  This tragedy hits so close to home because it was a fellow Air Force

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-90712926374601467562011-09-09T18:43:00.000-07:002011-09-09T18:43:30.229-07:00

Today I ventured out of my comfort zone that I have placed myself in this past year, and met up with some nice homeschool mommies and children at a park.  Of course, the common question of "how many children do you have" ensued.  Wanting not to introduce myself by giving our whole history/life story this past year, I introduced Evan.  Once I had been at the park for a little while, I opened up to

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-10886495176954025502011-08-07T18:47:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:29:44.166-07:00

Just wanted to say hi, and yes, I haven't blogged in a while.  I've written but haven't "published."  I suppose I am in my hermit hole and hiding out and choosing if and when I will share my deepest feelings.  We are all doing well.  Two months ago we passed the one year anniversary of Ethan's journey to Heaven.  June 5th wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be.  But towards the end of

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-30414687767483204452011-08-07T18:21:00.000-07:002011-08-07T18:21:02.703-07:00

On Tuesday, in the middle of Evan and I doing school work, I remembered that cemetery clean up for the month had started that morning.  Since moving back to Texas, we make sure to go out to Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery at the beginning of each month (and other times too) to take the semi-permanent items off of Ethan's grave.  If items aren't removed, then they are thrown away--and I do mean

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-35838100251432702152011-08-02T15:24:00.000-07:002011-08-06T06:04:14.130-07:00

I have tried my hand at a few hobbies, but have decided that quilting and sewing are my new, and hopefully permanent, hobbies.  When walking a long road down the path of grief, it is, of course, most important to lean on the Lord.  But it's also good to find something to keep you busy and to get excited about.  For me that was completing my first rag quilt.  I haven't completed a "real" quilt

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-36625860828444603552011-07-30T11:36:00.000-07:002011-07-30T11:36:43.313-07:00

Almost immediately after Ethan passed away last year, many friends, co-workers, acquaintances, etc. were touched by the Lord.  Hearing of a young child of 7 having such a testimony and love for the Lord no doubt convicted a lot of hearts. Many of you said you were either returning to church or going for the first time.  There were also many of you who said you were committing your life to Christ

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-10001017597820439332011-06-12T14:21:00.000-07:002011-06-12T14:21:38.622-07:00

As I was laying in bed last night trying to sleep, I couldn't stop thinking about how we, God's children, are NOT saved by good works.  That is a lie.  It states in scripture that we are saved by Jesus' grace.  Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, 9 who has saved us and

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-79775274654036812592011-06-09T10:40:00.000-07:002011-06-09T10:40:23.075-07:00

Temperatures are soaring outside, and that means that most folks will spend more time outside.  Along with the fun in the some comes a lot of water activities.  I want to urge you all to be very careful.  I hope a life or two or more can be saved from our tragedy. It's unfortunate that there will be drowning tragedies.  We were one of those statistics last summer, but you don't have to be a

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-21835771174225386002011-05-19T10:50:00.000-07:002011-05-19T10:50:25.884-07:00

I thought that perhaps remembering some memories about Ethan would brighten the remainder of the evening, on this Mother's Day.  For those who never met Ethan, I am truly sad because he was quite the unique and kind little man.  He was so compassionate, loving, observant, moral, silly, eccentric, etc.  Though right now my mind is a bit muddled and I can't think of a particular memory to write

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-44973936067207551802011-05-19T10:47:00.000-07:002011-05-19T10:47:31.456-07:00

This past Sunday, I went to a church near my sister's house.  I'm sort of church hopping until we get settled into our new home out in the country.  It's really too far to drive from her house out there where we will live.  So the searching for a new church home will most likely wait until we are moved. Anyway, Evan decided to go into children's church today.  Since we were guests, I had to fill

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-5848132416071305452011-05-08T16:53:00.000-07:002011-05-08T16:53:30.471-07:00

As families celebrate Mother's Day here in the United States, my heart is heavy for those who have lost a child, or who have never been able to conceive a child of their own.  God gave us a natural instinct to be mothers, and when we lose a child, or cannot have children of our own, it hurts--BADLY.  This is my first Mother's Day without Ethan.  I am sad.  I'm also sad for the beautiful ladies

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-37236794731210938432011-04-26T09:13:00.000-07:002011-04-26T09:13:29.931-07:00

Something I was thinking about this morning is the lack of compassion in our society.  I even see it in little children, and I have to wonder what is this world coming to?  It starts with us, as the parent, to model this and other good character qualities.  We as parents will reap what we sow.  We cannot sit there and do immoral things and participate in immoral things of this world and expect

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-4093588537960324832011-04-08T20:17:00.000-07:002011-04-08T20:17:36.596-07:00

Most everyone who reads my blog knows that we are a military family.  Being that we are a military family, we live a little bit of a different lifestyle than those who are what we call "civilians."  I am proud to be a military wife, and my husband is proud to honorably serve his country. Right now the big topic that I keep reading about over and over again is the government shutdown, and no pay

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-20541585695738432502011-03-22T18:04:00.000-07:002011-03-22T18:04:43.456-07:00

Our Homeschool Curricula: Heart of Dakota Publishing, Christ-centered learning from our heart to yours.Just wanted to share a curriculum that, Lord-willing, we will be using next school year!

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-84318133751706498142011-03-12T14:51:00.000-08:002011-03-12T14:51:33.918-08:00

My heart goes out to all that are affected by the recent events in Japan.  It's times like this that I'm grateful that my family and I are okay.  I cannot fathom what the people of Japan are going through.  I'm sure in some ways it is similar to the shock we as a nation felt on 9/11/01.  It's numbing.  Last night and this morning all I could really think about were the people who live in Japan.

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-21685944904410362072011-02-23T01:59:00.000-08:002011-02-23T01:59:37.078-08:00

When Ethan passed away in June of last year, we had to do what no parent should have to do--plan a funeral.  Since we are military and did not live back home in Texas, we planned two funerals.  That was a challenge that I do not wish on anyone to ever have to experience, but with the grace of God, we did what needed to be done.  We were blessed with many friends who helped us so much, a great

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-1167368967971554932011-02-14T15:25:00.000-08:002011-02-14T15:25:20.445-08:00

And I choose to glorify Him (though I daily fall short)!  I could be bitter and mad that Ethan died tragically, or I can be thankful for the 7 1/2 years we were blessed with his sweet soul.  I choose thankfulness and a positive attitude.  For the first time since Ethan's entrance to heaven, I'm pretty happy with my life.  HAPPY!!!  I'm sure that sounds strange that I could be HAPPY despite my

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-70583918841067002182011-02-07T16:26:00.000-08:002011-02-07T16:26:13.059-08:00

Today during school time, we came to the most exciting and favorite part (okay, I'm being a bit sarcastic): Handwriting. I was trying so hard to motivate Evan to keep going and not give up. He was in tears, I was remaining calm, and got an idea. I put some rice in a large container (rectangular shaped) and took it back to the homeschool room. Evan's attitude changed from one of frustration to

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-64458002555014248432011-02-06T17:21:00.000-08:002011-02-06T17:21:03.776-08:00

I must admit that since June of last year, this blog has been about anything but homeschooling.  I have pondered creating a blog devoted to Ethan and the grief journey, but have decided to keep all of that right here.  But I wanted to update on our school adventures.  We are going to continue to homeschool Evan until the Lord says otherwise.  Hooray! Evan just turned 5 in October, so he is

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-38335820271117016242011-02-06T14:50:00.000-08:002011-02-06T14:50:44.607-08:00

And is taking bloom!  Last night this is the conversation that Evan and Josh had: "Daddy, what day is it tomorrow?" "Tomorrow is Sunday." "Ah, nuts!!!," Evan exclaimed.  "I was going to fix the mailbox, but it's the Day of Rest (Sabbath)!"    You see, night before last vandals went through our neighborhood and randomly bashed in mailboxes (we have regular mailboxes, not lock and key cluster

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-69080753006697818022011-01-22T19:42:00.000-08:002011-01-22T19:42:24.901-08:00

I think a lot of folks out there wonder how we are and when we will "be over" our grief.  I don't say this thinking that people are rushing us or thinking:  will they ever stop talking about Ethan and move on?  But I think there are people out there that haven't gone through such a significant loss, or perhaps have never known anyone close that has died, which makes it hard to understand our pain

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-43014798587154862242011-01-22T18:34:00.000-08:002011-01-22T18:34:41.486-08:00

I've started quilting as a hobby to keep my mind occupied when I'm not occupied by my wife and mother duties. :o)  Which leaves me with not so much time to quilt...but I'm blessed to have a supportive husband and son that like the fact that I'm back at the sewing machine.  :o) With that said, I'd like to let my fellow quilting and sewing friends in on a SPECTACULAR giveaway!!!  http://

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-2231238754147557872011-01-08T21:41:00.000-08:002011-01-08T21:41:55.878-08:00

I am convinced that all of life's happenings--good, bad, happy, sad, tragic, miraculous, etc.--are for His glory.  I do not, however, think that God wills a child to die unexpectedly.  It all goes back to the Garden of Eden, where Eve sinned and fell short of the glory of God.  Ever since then, we've carried that sin and have lived in a fallen world...but, Jesus saved us and gave us a way to live

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-42881294556416375082011-01-02T16:23:00.000-08:002011-01-02T16:23:41.942-08:00

Thanksgiving, Ethan's Birthday, Christmas, and New Years Day have come and gone.  And you know what?  We survived it, though I'm not going to say without tears and heartache, but we did survive.  We had no idea what to expect, as no one does until you actually live that day or moment.  It (the holidays) were by every stretch of the mind, difficult, differet, somber, etc.  Through it all, Ethan's

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-43819886781941812012010-12-31T16:57:00.000-08:002010-12-31T16:57:39.969-08:00

As most others make resolutions for 2011, and plan ways to "ring in the new year," I am not making resolutions, nor am I celebrating 2011.  Now don't get me wrong, I'm grateful to be alive and see another year, but I'm not ready to say a final goodbye to 2010.  Most would think that given this very difficult year, I would be ready to say a big SEE YA!  I'm not ready to say farewell.  This is the

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-3669613714888136952010-12-25T15:51:00.000-08:002010-12-25T15:51:45.267-08:00

Ethan, hug Jesus for us and have the best Christmas ever!  It's not the same without you, but deep down in our hearts we know that you are home...your real home.  Where all believers want to be, long to be, and will be one day when the Lord calls us (of course if we live for You).  Ethan, thank you for being such a true example to us.  A true testimony to what being a Christian is and should be.

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-15721281460904786082010-12-21T12:02:00.000-08:002010-12-21T12:02:30.233-08:00

I'm am amazed how Ethan still teaches my family and I (and I'm sure many others who were touched by him) many valuable lessons.  I was sitting here, reviewing a sermon from a couple Sundays ago about: Are You A Practicing Christian?  I was re-reading over some scripture, and realizing that in my 32 years on this earth, I have a long way to go before I am "there."  Ethan WAS "there."  Ethan had

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-42222366970988181962010-12-08T22:42:00.000-08:002010-12-08T22:42:49.153-08:00

Approximately this time last year, we were in glorious snow-filled, heavily forested Montecito Sequoia, Kings Canyon National Forest, CA.  You see, being that we are pretty conservative with what we spend (we pretty much don't use credit cards for anything), we only took "vacations" back home for the holidays, or took a couple trips out to San Diego for a long weekend, but that was the extent. 

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-11799207211764487162010-12-07T10:18:00.000-08:002010-12-08T07:18:47.815-08:00

Today I've been really, really down.  Sad.  Hurting.  Missing Ethan.  Missing San Antonio.  Not wanting to be living where we presently live.  I've been pretty much negative all day.  Loving Heavenly Father that loves me no matter my flaws, past sins, etc.  The One who held me ever so close the day I lost Ethan, Who kept me strong so I could witness to unbelievers in the midst of my tragedy...

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-28058245991432449262010-12-06T14:56:00.000-08:002010-12-06T14:56:18.116-08:00

Then things are NOT okay.  Grief is very cyclical, like the ebbs and flows of an ocean, though it's not beautiful like the ocean.  Today I am so down and sad.  I do not want to clean house, nor much anything else for that matter.  Now that we are back from Texas, it's "back to normal" around here.  Josh is back at work after being off for some time, and it's just Evan and I.  Don't get me wrong,

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-22586598583067745772010-12-02T20:49:00.000-08:002010-12-03T08:56:17.570-08:00

Our visit back home to Texas was bittersweet. Sweet because we saw family and friends, because we visited Ethan's grave for the first time since the headstone was placed, and because we were long overdue for a visit back home. Bitter (actually, more like heartbreaking/sad/draining), because we had to spend our first Thanksgiving and Ethan's Eighth Birthday without him here on earth with us.

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-37572673424842347902010-11-29T22:03:00.000-08:002010-11-29T22:03:50.468-08:00

I felt your presence on this beautiful, sunny day here in Texas. Your smile shown through the clouds, as beautiful sunbeams kissed the ground. Thank you God, for giving us such a beautiful day! Goodnight Ethan, I love you. I hope that you enjoyed the balloons that we released. Love (hugs and kisses and a few tears), Mommy

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-14565675012020627832010-11-10T22:00:00.000-08:002010-11-10T22:00:27.149-08:00

While at my GriefShare group at church this past weekend,(www.griefshare.org) we were talking about many things. But among the various topics, we talked about God not being shocked about our loved ones passing. That He wasn't "asleep" or "not in control" or "shocked" when they departed earth to heaven. While I had heard this from many thoughtful, loving friends shortly after losing Ethan, I

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-87819675918157956462010-10-07T19:51:00.000-07:002010-10-08T17:01:43.920-07:00

It's hard to believe that October is already upon us. Which leads to Evan's 5th Birthday, my birthday two weeks later, followed by Thanksgiving...and about 4 days later, what would have been Ethan's 8th Birthday. I was going to wait to write about this, but felt that the more time people had to prepare, the better participation we could get. In honor of Ethan's Birthday, we are declaring November

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-77813151186912815992010-10-06T21:51:00.000-07:002010-10-06T22:15:20.073-07:00

I had hoped to write more often once we got settled into our home here in WA, but that just hasn't been the case. I have been busy, but also just haven't wanted to write. When I did get the urge to write, lack of internet while in TLF on base, or our laptop breaking, have prevented me from writing.We are all doing okay. It's been rough since we moved. Often I think of all of my friends. Thank you

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-87352036260092570272010-09-05T20:30:00.000-07:002010-09-05T20:46:00.447-07:00

It's hard to believe that Ethan has been with the Lord for three months as of today. My heart is usually very heavy when the 5th of each month arrives. But today was a nice family and church day. Ethan was on our minds a lot, as he is everyday, but I had a peaceful day. This is the first "anniversary" of his passing that has been not only bearable, but actually enjoyable. Afterall, Ethan is

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-38949593532387012272010-07-21T22:30:00.000-07:002010-07-21T22:46:02.874-07:00

Tonight as I was on Facebook, I realized something. There are others out there mourning the loss of Ethan besides his immediate family. The night of the accident, there were many of my husband's co-workers and friends around. There were others there too that knew Ethan--not well, but nonetheless they knew him. Unfortunately, many saw Ethan unconscious and CPR being performed. The Lord shielded

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-7140752354748662192010-07-20T23:02:00.000-07:002010-07-20T23:37:17.421-07:00

I want you to know…That Ethan was one of the friendliest, kindest children God ever created. He would go out of his way to welcome everyone. One could find him at a restaurant, waiting patiently to dine, and he would be the one holding the door for adults—smile on his face—enjoying helping others. I want you to know that this little man loved to read! In fact, he would wake up early every morning

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-41497119854473446782010-07-11T22:54:00.000-07:002010-07-11T23:02:42.706-07:00

Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4 I need to mediate on this precious piece of scripture. The past week has been one of the hardest. That is why I've been isolating myself, in a sense, from most people. To be honest, I just want to be around Josh and Evan. Others, while well-intentioned, simply don't understand what we are going through. People move on with

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-46318105130896489832010-07-10T20:58:00.000-07:002010-07-10T22:00:34.770-07:00

Many text books on psychology, books on grief, and other materials give details on the grief process. There are about five steps that most scholars will say that people go through. The order in which one goes through them is all over the place. I am writing about this, because I am honestly smack in the middle of grief. It has almost been five weeks since Ethan passed, but it doesn't seem

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-10600345798001356262010-07-02T01:08:00.000-07:002010-07-02T02:45:49.106-07:00

Ethan was such a unique little man. He had many interests, but he would go through periods of time that he would focus on just one or two things...and that's all he talk about! For instance, when he was about four, all he wanted to play with and think about were windchimes. This lasted for over a course of the years--his interest in them would come and go. We would walk into a store, and within a

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-61546484063997696722010-06-30T16:44:00.001-07:002010-06-30T18:12:08.545-07:00

A lot of people have wondered if we are still moving to Washington State since the tragic loss of Ethan. And to answer that--yes--we are still going forth with the move. Ethan was so excited about moving somewhere colder, with trees, and a lot of beautiful places to see. When I mean excited, I truly mean EXCITED!!! We feel it best to move on with our lives, just as it would have been if Ethan

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-25177648767362212582010-06-28T23:06:00.000-07:002010-06-30T14:57:14.743-07:00

Our oldest son, Ethan Joshua, passed away 5 Jun 10. He is missed by so many, but especially his little brother Evan, and his Mommy and Daddy. Losing a child is said to be the worst type of loss one could endure, and I do believe this to be true. It's as though a huge part of you is missing, and will never be replaced. It's only by the grace of God that we can get through this difficult time. God

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-9487209977257771272010-02-14T12:29:00.000-08:002010-02-14T12:58:56.486-08:00

At this point, I hope I've gotten someone out there in cyber-space world to stop and read my blog! :o) "Why the crab pictures?," you are probably pondering at the moment. Did we go "crabbing" somewhere out in the ocean? No. Did I go to a market and take a picture of these creatures? No.Okay, let me give you another clue. Here is a view of Mt. Rainier from Ft. Lewis, WA. Please note, I cannot

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-57375855124913661382010-01-04T17:16:00.000-08:002010-01-04T17:20:37.573-08:00

http://handbookofnaturestudy.blogspot.com/2010/01/winter-series-of-outdoor-hour.htmlPlease visit Barb over at the Handbook of Nature Study. Barb pours a lot of time and love into her blog, and she is a true Charlotte Mason of the 21st century. While over there, you will notice she has some lovely eBooks for sale, which can enhance your homeschooling over these chilly winter months! And if you

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-6506495532507646642010-01-04T08:58:00.001-08:002010-01-04T09:09:00.608-08:00

Happy 2010, my dear friends, readers, family, etc. !! It has been too long since I last posted about any homeschool or family events. The holidays consume so much time, but that's okay because the time consumed is well worth the fond memories made. :o)More about those memories made in a future post. I must get the first day of school, 2010 started ASAP!!!While you're taking a break, please hop

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-78290597698346724232009-10-20T12:03:00.000-07:002009-10-20T12:09:51.272-07:00

I suspect there isn't one homeschooling mom who is ALWAYS healthy and feeling super every day! Well, fall is here and so is the flu and other yucky junk. Yes, I have some junk...probably just a sinus infection, but it's taking forever to get over. As one who doesn't tun to the doc to get meds, it sometimes takes me a bit longer to get back to normal the "natural" way. With that said, I have NO

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-3121005250763178692009-08-29T22:58:00.000-07:002009-08-29T23:11:22.256-07:00

Nothing much to write, as I am super tired and need to go to bed!! Just wanted to share some pictures of Ethan diligently working on some verse copy work. Ethan LOVES handwriting and copy work, and is really enjoying each Proverb we learn each week. :o) Just in case you are just joining in on our homeschool adventure, we are using My Father's World for our main curriculum (language arts, Bible,

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-89885603540117312682009-08-25T17:47:00.000-07:002009-08-26T21:51:23.677-07:00

The boys and I headed off this morning with plans to visit the Gilcrease Orchard here in Las Vegas. We were going with the intentions of observing pumpkin plants and sketching them. However, this year they have fenced off the pumpkin area (it wasn't accessible whatsoever) due to vandalism and such. However, we were blessed to find zucchini squash!! Zucchini and pumpkin are from the gourd family,

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-36316178218709537972009-08-24T16:25:00.000-07:002009-08-24T16:33:57.225-07:00

Well, besides the love, strength, forgiveness, loyalty, grace and much more that Christ provides...I found a great new friend!!! You will laugh, because it's not a living thing. Yet it IS tangible. Introducing..........The Home Schooler's Journal. This nifty spiral bound, soft cover book was purchased on www.christianbook.com for just $9.99. I read stellar reviews about this item from other

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-78548773279963040672009-08-24T15:55:00.000-07:002009-08-24T16:15:21.252-07:00

Our first day of school was officially 10 Aug 09. We started early (well, if you are counting when public school begins) because...we can! Ethan was eager to learn, and mommy needed to just ditch the cold feet and hit the ground runnin'!!!Well, I am posting two weeks later...sorry about that, but SCHOOL comes first nowadays! Our first week was such a blessing, and it's amazing how much the boys

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2090442868277937471.post-86503722702788530982009-08-21T19:10:00.000-07:002009-08-21T19:12:58.212-07:00

We began our first official day of homeschool 10 Aug 09! Hooray!!! I am so proud of Ethan's accomplishments. :o) He's so eager to learn, and I just have to say that the days are so fulfilling. I'm in much more of a routine, our days are more structured, and everyone's a lot happier because of it.More to come very soon...

Shannonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15858693364105977689noreply@blogger.com1