Update on Archie

I had told Archie and his friend that we would pick them up on the corner at 8:30 Sunday morning. Well who knows with my signing if they knew what I meant so when we got there, they were no where around. We were a little early so we decided to drive around a bit and wait. Finally we decided to just drive through and still didn't see them. When we asked if anyone had seen Archie, they said he was inside working.

Sure enough, hubby found him working. He came out to the car and I asked about his friend. Archie went in to check on him and he hadn't showered yet so said he'd come next week.

He's so friendly! He waves and in his deaf voice says hi to everyone. When we walked up to the deaf section, he sat down immediately with my second year sign teacher (also deaf) and started talking up a storm. There wasn't any room for the 7 of us so we sat down right behind them.

I think he just loves having others to talk to. As we were leaving the first service and the next group was coming in, he somehow knew (like radar) the people that were deaf. He went back up the ramp and talked briefly to a couple of them.

After church we took him out to eat and after some car trouble finally got him back to the Coalition.

Last night the kids were talking about him and one of them called him Uncle Archie.

During our time, I didn't think to ask him how long he's been without a home and job. I did ask what kind of work he does and Hubby's going to ask at his office. If you know of any place that needs janitorial work, that's what he's looking for.

Best Christmas Ever!

What an awesome Christmas morning! Instead of the usual getting of gifts on Jesus' birthday, we loaded up at 7am to head down to the Coalition for the Homeless. The hygiene kits that so many of you helped put together had been put in backpacks to be handed out to the homeless men that sleep there. Doughnuts, coffee and specially packaged cookies were also given out.


What a sight. I couldn't have imagined the mass of so many without a warm, soft, clean bed to sleep in; without food for the rest of the day; without family to go to in their time of need. It put a lot of things into perspective for me.

While passing out the cookies, Sweet Pea noticed that one of the men was deaf. When she told me, I immediately sought him out. His name is Archie. He was very patient with me and my 2 years of sign language with no practical experience. At one point in the conversation, I asked him what he was going to do for the rest of the day. He said, "Be bored." I thought about him the rest of the day. Especially as I was preparing our Christmas dinner/feast. It was all I could do to keep from asking Hubby if we could go back down there and find him and bring him home.


As the men finished up their doughnuts and coffee and started heading out for the day, Archie starting working. I saw him cleaning up and moving boxes. I could tell he was a worker. There are homeless people who are bumbs - they're there because they choose to be; because they are lazy. Archie's not one of them. I think many of the men there want to work, want to get out of that place. It weighs on my heart.

I invited Archie and his friend (also deaf) to church Sunday. I want to introduce them to my first sign language teacher who is also deaf. They said they would be waiting for us Sunday morning. I'll let you know.

Merry Christmas!

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We're not getting to send out Christmas cards this year, but if the budget allows will hopefully send something out in the new year. In the meantime, I want to wish you all a very merry Christmas as you celebrate the birth of Christ!

Walk on Water, Mama

Whenever I hear or read something I want to remember, I scratch it down on whatever paper is nearby. While cleaning out the office this morning, I found part of a torn envelope on which I had written:

Peter said, "If it's You, Lord, I will come."

We can say, "You called me to this, Lord. I can walk on water."

I can be the mother He wants me to be only because of Him.

The idea that I could actually be the mother God wants me to be seems as impossible as walking on water when I think of how far I miss the mark everyday. But I have been called to this just as Jesus called Peter out of the boat. I just have to keep my eyes on Him and go to Him for what I need in order to do what seems unfathomable.

And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water."

He said, "Come"

So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.

Matthew 14:28-29

So, walk on water, all you Mama's out there. You've been called to this and Jesus is right there waiting for you to come to Him.

Thoughts for Today

"If you can't say something nice, don't say nothin' at all."
Thumper

"When words are many, sin is not absent,
but he who holds his tongue is wise."
Proverbs 10:19

"Zip it. Lock it. Put it in your pocket."

Mothers and Teachers everywhere

Never Heard of It?

Thumbholdingmilkshakeglassitis! You mean you've never heard of it? Well, that's because I just made up the name to explain why my thumb has been bothering me so much lately. I finally figured out it's from holding my milkshake in the same hand day after day.

Hey, some people get tennis elbow, I get 'thumb-holding-milkshake-glass-itis'.

Bringing Good Cheer

Mrs. Fittro had this great idea of taking our kids to a nursing home this month to sing Christmas carols and recite Luke 2:1-21.

When we got there, I think I was more nervous than the kids. But despite only getting to practice all together once, the kids did a great job.

The activities director told us that one of the residents never smiles, but yesterday she lit up when she saw the kids. We're hoping to adopt this little nursing home and come back during the year.

New Tradition

We haven't started many traditions as our own little family yet. We have a nativity set and with a storybook that we read in the days leading up to Christmas. Hubby makes homemade cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning every year and, of course, reads the Christmas story before opening gifts. Other than that, we don't have our own traditions.

We (my parents and siblings and our spouses) used to load up in the back of Dad's truck, covered in quilts, to go caroling but when we had more carseats than the truck could hold, we quit.

This year I started a new tradition that I hope will stick.

Starting on December 1, I lit a candle at dinnertime for each day of the month. So whatever day of the month it is, that is how many candles we have burning during our evening meal. On the tenth, it was 10. On Christmas day, it will be 25.

If we know we won't be home at night, we'll light them for an earlier meal. Thankfully I had a bunch of candles (not necessarily matching) saved up and haven't had to buy any yet. I may run out of space on my cake plates before I run out of candles.

Trimming the Tree

Every year my Christmas tree is different. Not because I get new ornaments every year --well, not just because I get new ornaments every year (after Christmas sales) --but because it's not always decorated by the same artist.

The years I decorate it, I end up fussing with it until we take it down. Every day I'll look at it and find something that should be moved or traded with something else so there aren't too many of this or that in one spot and it is just right.

Last year I asked Mom to decorate it for me. I always love her tree so I wanted her special touch. It turned out beautiful.

Some years I'm just not in the mood to decorate. Those are the years the kids decorate. And this was one of those years. So one night after dinner and baths we pulled in the boxes of ornaments and let the kids have at it. Hubby, who is great at decorating, found some ribbon and added his special touch.

I think they did a great job. And it was much more enjoyable for me.

Passing on a Legacy

When Hubby was young, his parents were missionaries in the States with Wycliffe Bible Translators. They retired when he was a teenager after years of service and went back to "civilian life" so to speak.

At the end of last year Meme gave us a brochure from Wycliffe and asked if we would help them collect loose change to then be donated at the end of this year. We used pictures of children from other countries to decorate a large oats box, cut a hole in the lid and started saving.



Last Wednesday I picked up coin rolls on my way to my parents' house for dinner so I could roll the coins we had collected. When I got there with the very heavy oat box and empty paper rolls, Mom pulled out a jar of her own loose change to add to it.


When all was said and done, we had collected $175.



The next day the kids, hubby's parents and I took the money to the Wycliffe headquarters. Meme had arranged for us to meet with someone there so the kids could see what it was all about and present our gift. We got a special tour, enjoyed the exhibit and learned about the importance of translating God's Word into languages that people can understand.

We also had our pictures taken to be used as a way of letting others know how they can help by doing something as simple as collecting spare change.


Our small contribution will help many learn about Jesus in their own language. And such a simple task helped the children learn the importance of the work that their grandparents did for so many years. Their legacy is being passed on.

This picture is made up entirely of fingerprints. Our tour guide told us it represents how each fingerprint is like each person who does their part to further the Gospel. When they all come together, they make a beautiful work of art and complete the work of spreading the Good News of Jesus.

Groovy!

Here's our next vehicle!! Is that cool or what!?!?!

We saw this bus in a mall parking lot. I told hubby we should get one like it.

Holding Hands with God

Thus says God, the LORD,

who created the heavens and stretched them out,

who spread out the earth and what comes from it,

who gives breath to the people on it

and spirit to those who walk in it:

“I am the LORD;

I have called you in righteousness;

I will take you by the hand and keep you.”

Isaiah 42:5-6

I just love the imagery of this all-powerful, life-giving God holding my hand, guiding me and keeping me!

Who Am I?

A glimpse at part of me...


I am is continually conscious of the fact that I am a wretched sinner saved by grace alone. I am so far from perfect. But how I yearn to be more like Christ. No one is less satisfied with her spiritual state of being than I.


I am a daughter who wants her parents to be proud of her and to accept her even if she never learns to keep her mouth shut.


I am a little sister and a big sister who wants a fresh start. Who wants to be loved in spite of the past and in spite of herself. And who wants her siblings to know she's sorry for decades of being so hard to love.


I am a daughter-in-law who has wasted years being selfish and petty and who is grateful for forgiveness.


I am a wife who is undeserving of her patient, forgiving, unconditionally-loving husband and who wishes she was the spouse to him that he is to her.


I am a mother who is painfully aware of how unworthy she is to be blessed with this title and whose heart aches because of her many, daily failures to show God's perfect love to her children who forgive in a heartbeat and love her "no matter what."


I am a friend who is horrible at keeping it touch and so thankful for those who understand. I am an unworthy, wretched sinner saved by the grace of a loving God.

Guard Your Heart

Here's an excellent post by The Stay-at-Home Missionary on guarding your heart and mind.


Related: Rated BG

Stomach Bugs - FYI *Updated

*See below
Ever wonder how long someone is contagious after having a stomach virus?

Here's the answer from the Mayo Clinic.

It depends on which virus is causing your stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis). A number of viruses can cause gastroenteritis, including noroviruses and rotaviruses. The contagious period — the time during which a sick person can give the illness to others — is slightly different for each virus.

Norovirus is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis in adults. Symptoms appear within one to three days of exposure. With norovirus, you're contagious from the moment you begin to feel ill. Although you typically feel better after a day or two, you're contagious for at least three days after you've recovered. Some people may be contagious for up to two weeks after recovery. Also, children are often contagious for a longer period than are adults.

Rotavirus is the leading cause of viral gastroenteritis in infants and young children. Symptoms of rotavirus appear one to two days after exposure. But you're contagious even before you develop symptoms, and you typically remain contagious for two weeks after you've recovered. Children are often contagious for a longer period than are adults.
For these reasons, it's important to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly — whether you feel ill or not. The viruses that cause gastroenteritis are spread through close contact with infected persons, such as by sharing food or eating utensils. Washing your hands is the most effective way to stop the spread of these viruses to others.

Now you know how it spreads, by taking kids to Sunday school only a few days after being sick.

*My friend makes a good point in her comment that church is NOT the only place to contact these nasty little bugs! I'm glad she pointed that out. To only mention Sunday school was definitely inaccurate and I humbly apologize. Thanks, Mrs. Evans! :)

Power of Suggestion

What words strike fear in the heart and soul and stomach of this mommy?

"Mommy, my stomach doesn't feel well."

Ah, man! Please, God, don't let it happen!

But it did. Sweet Pea has a stomach bug. I dragged her mattress into our bathroom along with the portable tv. She's been watching the 6-week mini-series of Little House on the Prairie that we recorded a couple years ago. Poor thing.

Everyone else feels fine (so far). Dad asked me how I was feeling. I said, "Well, as usual, as soon as someone throws up, I start feeling yucky." And I do. It's the idea that I might be next. So any time I go to eat something I asked myself if I really want to see it later. Gross, I know.

It's the power of suggestion that those germs are lurking, ready take their next victim, which could be me!

It's also the power of suggestion that captures many victims in other areas - especially children. Like when they hear us talk to others about certain character flaws they may be struggling with. Soon they will be caught up in these "suggestions". It's like labeling, but not to their face.

"She has a hard time with ..." or "He just doesn't get along with ..."

It may be absolutely true. But sometimes instead of addressing the issue head on and helping them overcome their sins, we just make excuses for our kids' behavior.

"Kids will be kids" and "Boys will be boys" and "She's at that age". True statements. But not good reasons to ignore disrespect, disobedience, unkindness, ungratefulness, etc.

Let your kids hear these comments and "suggestions" and they'll live up to them.

But if we remember Paul's words that love hopes all things, they don't have to be trapped. In love, hope the best out of your children. Love them, encourage them, guide them, and train them up.

Don't grow weary in doing this good, because if you don't give up, you will reap a harvest of righteousness in your children's lives and maybe in yours as well.

Eucharist, Joy, Rejoicing

The following are some notes and quotes I jotted down this morning while listening to a podcast by Rob Bell, pastor of Mars Hill Bible Church. The Scripture was Philippians 4 beginning in verse 4.

Eucharist means 'the good gift'.

To rejoice is to be aware that all of life is a gift.

Joy is learning to discern that God is up to something even in this (whatever your 'this' may be).

Joy is learning to perceive things that run counter to prevailing wisdom about how the world works.

Practice the discipline of becoming aware of all of the gifts that are around you.

My conclusion: Joy and rejoicing aren't passive attributes. They come from a conscious effort on my part. An effort, a discipline to take thoughts captive. Thoughts that are ungrateful, selfish, pitying self. It is actively renewing my mind to think like Jesus.

Joy is not just a feeling. It is trust in God's sovereignty and omniscience. Resting in His power to control my life, to fulfill the plans He has for me.

Deadline for Homeless Hygiene Kits

If you are participating in the hygiene kits for the homeless, just wanted to let you know the deadline is December 15.

Thank you so much for giving to others this Christmas!

The Car Show

Yesterday we spent the day at the car show with Hubby's parents and aunt and uncle.

A Love Letter

Last night, long after the kids had gone to sleep, I found this heart-shaped note taped to my bathroom mirror. It's from our oldest son, Little R, 7 years old.

It says,

"Dad I (heart) you

I dont now what

I wood do

with out you

your the Best

Mom I (heart) you

I dont now

what I

wood do with

out you

your the

Best

look at the

back..."

You can see through the paper the picture he drew of the three of us holding hands.

All Because She Asked

Last month Sweet Pea invited her friend across the street to go with her to my parents' church's Fall Festival (which is on the property behind our house). Hubby and I had been invited to a college football game that day so my parents had the kids. The little girl and and her mom came and while they were there, the little girl got saved.

The next Sunday (or maybe a week later) the mom and daughter visited their church and her mom got saved.

Yesterday the older brother got saved. Now we're just waiting to see if the dad comes with them. As far as we know he hasn't been to the church yet.

But isn't that exciting? Just because Sweet Pea asked a friend to a fall festival, a whole family (and maybe more) may come to know Jesus and the hope of Heaven!

Primary Ministry

For clarification of my last post, because no guilt trips were intended...

When I started having kids and retired from outside work, I had visions of volunteering at various ministries, giving my time and resources to help others. Unfortunately, I couldn't figure out how to do that with nursing and napping babies (for 7 1/2 years I was either pregnant and/or nursing).

Every time we had a Missionsfest at church or a sermon on getting involved in a ministry at the church, I felt this great pull to do 'something' followed by guilt because I just couldn't figure out how.

Finally, I learned that I was doing 'something'. I am in the ministry of raising warriors for God's kingdom. My home is my primary ministry. There is a time for everything under heaven, and when I had newborns and toddlers to be ministered to, outside ministry had to wait.

I learned that making meals for sick friends or new moms was something I could do at home - with the kids.

Working in children's Sunday school classes when I was already at church was a way to minister without taking away from my primary ministry.

Saving change all year to give to a ministry like Wycliffe is something that can be done at home -with the kids. They helped decorate the empty oatmeal box, cut a hole in the lid, and sorted and counted up the change at the end.

They can also shop with me and pack up items for hygiene kits, Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes or pick out Gifts of Hope.

Now that the children are older I'm starting to explore outside ministries - with the kids. For example, they've memorized the Christmas story to recite and songs to sing at nursing homes this December.

I want them to experience giving in all forms. I'd love to hear what you're doing at home - with the kids - to love on others.

My point is, do not feel guilty for not doing more outside your home. This may not be the season for you. And don't compare yourself with what you see others doing. We're all gifted differently. But ask God to show you ways, in your everyday living, that you can minister to and love those you come in contact with - with the kids.

Happy Giving!

Relevancy and Love

The question was posed recently, "How can we be relevant to those around us?" Meaning: How can I relate to the lost in a way that draws them to the Savior?

Relevant means "having a bearing on or connection with."

It hit me a couple of days ago, as I was reading a friend's blog, that her husband is a picture of relevancy. Early every Monday morning he goes down to a homeless shelter and runs with the homeless men who sleep there. Every Thursday he and his family go downtown and feed, fellowship with and minister to the homeless that gather.

Jesus met physical needs as well as spiritual. My friend doesn't talk about what needs to be done, he does it. He doesn't just say he loves these lost, homeless men, he shows them. Action.

Which, of course, leads me to the greatest commandment of loving God and others.

We all hear that love is a decision. I used to think that meant you decide to feel love. On the contrary, what it means is despite how you feel, you choose to show love. You choose to be patient and kind whether you feel like it or not. You choose to not act irritable even if you feel irritable. Hard to do. Is it possible? How?

Galatians says the fruit of the Spirit is love. So it is possible but only because of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

And showing, acting in love begins at home with the ones closest to us then extends to everyone we meet.

It's so appropriate that the world says in order to love others, you must first love yourself. This is one of the enemy's lies! We already love ourselves. Why else would Jesus tell us to love our neighbors as ourselves? As Reb Bradley says, even the person who says he hates himself can't stop thinking about himself. We have no trouble loving ourselves.

The truth is, in order to love others we have to understand and believe God's love for us. Then, we have to stop looking at how we can please ourselves and look for ways to love others. It's got to be a conscious effort to make a habit of looking to the interests of others - our spouses, children, grocery cashiers, homeless guys, families without food, everyone without Hope. Eventually it will be a way of life. And a way of life that pleases our Maker.

So, how can we be relevant and draw others to Christ? Love them in word and deed.

Really Celebrating Christmas

Check out this post at A Holy Experience.

After you watch the video be sure to scroll down and read how her family celebrates Jesus' birthday! A very interesting idea.

Sticks and Stones

Sticks and stones may break my bones

but words will never hurt me.

We've heard this a million times, right? But it's far from true. Words do hurt. Some so deeply the scars last a lifetime. Even after forgiveness is offered, we can't help but remember.

Sometimes words shape us, mold us into what we are today. It seems the ones who make the biggest impact on us are those closest to us - specifically family. There are few words from others that I remember. And even if I do, they didn't make me who I am today.

How will I affect my family? Do my words build them up as Ephesians 4:29 tells me?

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

Do I speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15)? Or do I criticize?

Do I correct and discipline because it is in my children's best interests? Or because it is in my best interest or out of frustration? Or do I correct at all and instead ignore issues of the heart because it's too much work and I'm busy with something else?

What about my husband? Do I bring him good and not harm (Prov. 31:12)? Am I a suitable helper to him (Gen 2:18)? Suitable with my attitude and words as well as with my actions?

What about tone? What do I convey in my tone of voice - love and patience or aggravation and selfishness?

I have been hurt with words (mostly unintentionally) far worse than I've ever been hurt physically. I too have hurt others with my words. Which is what has shaped my view of the importance of teaching my children not to hurt others with their words.

Part of my action plan is teaching them to appreciate each others' differences. God made everyone with different personalities, temperaments, gifts, talents, abilities, likes and dislikes. And how creative He was! I point out how great it is that we are all so different and how boring it would be if we were all exactly alike.

I do not allow name-calling at all or allow them to criticize or make fun of each other.

Bad attitudes are not allowed to linger when an offense has occurred and been "worked through." Forgiveness is grudgeless.

I encourage them to build each other up with praise, encouragement, appreciation and kind
words.

I want to teach them to evaluate their words themselves. They can ask themselves if what they want to say is true, kind and necessary. If not, it's probably better left unsaid. If we all did this, how much better off would we be?

Which leads to the most important point...I have to lead by example. This is the hardest part. I fail, a lot. And so I apologize, a lot!

My children are way ahead of me in this area. I encourage you that the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience of addressing this issue in your home.

"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

Help Others This Christmas - Updated Again (Due Mid December)

I got this email today from a friend with regards to helping others out this Christmas. I've edited it a bit just to give you the facts. Please let me know if you would like to help out.

I happen to know of a group of about 350 men who will be sleeping in a screened-in pavilion on a concrete floor on little mats for Christmas. They will have no family, no gifts, and no hope.

I have personally committed to the Coalition to come up with 350 hygiene kits. If you and your family can commit to make up a few (or a lot), please let me know. You can also put an encouraging letter in them if you want. You can be assured that I will personally make sure the pack finds a needy man this Christmas.

Help me give some hope this Christmas. And spread the word! If nobody else does it, I’ll have to get 350 on my own! But, I’d feel almost guilty to keep all those blessings to myself. ;-)

Here's what the hygiene kit should include: Take a gallon size Ziplock bag and fill with a toothbrush in a toothbrush holder, toothpaste, a pair of socks, a pair of underwear, a washcloth, deodorant, a small bottle of shampoo, a bar of soap, a razor, a comb and a small tube of hand lotion.

That doesn't sound too hard does it? This would be a great thing to do with the kids. And if you don't want to do the shopping, but would rather me shop for you, I can do that, too.

UPDATE:

I went shopping this morning for our kit supplies. The bags will average $7-10 each. Also, trial size toothpaste is the same price as some of the regular size tubes, so I opted for that. The toothbrush covers were 2/$.50 in the travel section of Walmart. They also sell washclothes in packs of 18/$3.96. Razors 12/$6. Combs were in a pack 8/$1.96. Equate toothbrushes 2/$1.

My sister is the deal finder. She found a toothbrush with holder and toothpaste in a travel pack at Target for 99 cents, and shampoo and conditioner for .30 cents at Big Lots.

She also had a suggestion that if you have extras of anything (like you made 5 bags but bought a 6 pack of combs) someone else could use those to finish their packs. So let me know if you want to do that.

"Woe to You, America" and "Father, Forgive Them"

These are two of many thoughts that keep running through my mind this morning: "Woe to you, America" and "Father, forgive them. They know not what they do."

What I just don't get is those who claim to follow Christ "putting aside" their religion to give power to this man who thinks it is okay to slaughter unborn children. They allowed charisma and money to master their decision.

Sunday, in the church parking lot, I saw a car with 2 stickers. One said, "Vote Yes on 2" and the other "Obama". Are you kidding me?

What kind of faith is that, that you can set it aside like a jacket only to put it back on when it suits you? It's unbelievable to me.

Now, does this mean I doubt God's sovereignty in this election? Not in the least! My comfort today as I wrestle with the news I woke to this morning is that I can rest in the security of knowing it doesn't matter who is president, because God is King. He's all I need. He's all I want.

It does remind me, however, that sometimes, He gives us just what we ask for.

Decisions, Decisions

Can I just encourage any wife who reads this blog? If you struggle with a decision that needs to be made, ask your husband.

I have been mulling over something for the past 3 days, thinking I knew what I wanted to do about it just not sure exactly how to go about it. I'm being aloof with details to protect the one I mulling about.

Anyway, I've discussed it with my Hubby several times but never actually asked, "What should I do about it?" Until today.

Guys can take the emotion out of something and just make it so simple. He told me what he thinks need to be done and I'm going to do it. The stress is gone. I have such a peace about it now.

God gave us our husbands to lead and protect us. Let them. Then let go of whatever it is you're trying to control. It is so freeing.

The Results Are In...

UPDATED!

Here are the results from my previous post. Thank you, ladies, for your witty and kind responses that I can pass along.

Question:
"Are they all yours?"

Answers:
"Last time I checked."

"I'll know for sure when the maternity test comes back."

"Every single one of these blessings is mine."

Question:
"Don't you know what causes that?"

Answers:
"Why...don't you?"

"Yeah! And we're good at it!"

"Yes and we're getting very good at it. Need just a little more practice."

"No." Look very confused and wait for the response. It's usually a good one.

"Nope! And I hope I don't find out cause I'd love to have more."

Question:
"When are you going to stop?" or "How many do you want to have?"

Answers:
"We'll stop when we have an ugly one." The idea being that parents never think their kids are ugly.

"We're just trying to keep up with our neighbors' bunnies!"

"Those bunny rabbits don't have a thing on us!"

Comment:
"You have your hands full."

Answer:
"Their not as full as our hearts."

"We are very blessed."

Hey Jealousy

(Can you just hear the Gin Blossoms right now?)

Yes, jealousy is wrong. But admittedly I'm green with envy over all the announcements of my friends and family who are pregnant. And I just found out one is having twins!

Some of you are thinking, "You have five. Be happy." Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy. But I'm a womb-carrying human being and I think it's okay to want to use it.

Isn't it ironic? (Boy, I'm full of songs today - Alanis Morissette, now. I'll get spiritual here eventually.) Isn't it ironic that 13 years ago I never wanted any kids? And when I did start having them, I thought anyone with 3 was amazing. When our 4th child was a baby, I met a woman who at the time had 11 children (now 12). That was the day I quit talking about how many kids I had, as if it was soooo many. I realized you will always meet someone who has more and will think you are crazy for complaining about how few (in comparison) you have. Not to mention everytime you have one more, you realize how easy it really was when you had one less.

That said (and with great digression from what I'm really supposed to be posting about), I'm on assignment. It seems that as soon as you get pregnant with your 3rd child you start hearing comments like, "Don't you have cable?" or "Don't you know how this happens?"

For the most part these comments have never bothered me. The only one that ever did get me was when a man said to Hubby, "That's too many kids." I didn't hear him. If I had, I would have asked him which one he would want us to give back.

Anyway, some expectant moms are annoyed, irritated or down-right insulted by any comment that they shouldn't be having more children. So I need your help. I promised I would help out one of my lucky preggo pals. I'm looking for a few good and kind one-liners or ways that you have politely responded to those members of society, church, wherever, who don't know that God calls children a blessing, a reward.

Psalm 127
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.
Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!

Here's an example of one of my favorites - Mrs. Fittro (mother to 5) told me this one once. Whenever anyone would ask her, "Don't you know how this happens?" she would answer with, "Yes, and we like it!" I love using that one.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Hard Times

What if we gave up when things got too hard? There are plenty of times I've been ready to do just that.

But isn't it the hard things in life that make us better people?

James says, "Count it all joy...when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Trials, hard times, and struggles will test our faith. If we say we trust in God, our faith should be strengthened through these circumstances in our lives. Then through that strengthening, steadfastness is produced. If we are steadfast, we will be unwavering, fixed in our direction, firm in our purpose.

Here's the problem. We say we believe a lot of things about God. Only our lives don't prove it.

What we really believe is what we actually live. I don't mean what others see us live. I mean what God sees us live.

If we say we believe He is in control, why don't we trust Him to take care of us? Why do we try to control so much ourselves?

If we say we believe He is sovereign, why don't we trust that he has a purpose for everything - the loss of a job, an unexpected pregnancy, the passing of a loved one. He works all things together for good for those who love Him. We say that. But do we believe it?

My child can say he trusts me to catch him if he jumps into the pool, but he doesn't prove he trusts me until he jumps.

Proof of our faith comes in trials, hard times.

If you admire someone because of their strong faith, know they got it because God allowed circumstances in their lives that were not easy. And maybe they didn't always pass with flying colors but they learned from what they went through. They learned that God had a purpose for every instance.

You see we all have trials, but not all of us learn from them. We either don't take responsibility for our part - blame others or society - or we don't run to Him to show us His purpose. We don't seek to grow through it.

Think about the biggest brat you've ever seen on one of those nanny shows. Aren't they that way because they got everything they wanted? They didn't have to suffer by doing chores, by putting others first, by using self-control to do what was right even if they didn't want to. Kids who are great, have learned to do what is right even when it's hard.

My oldest doesn't care for math. She's good at it but doesn't like it. I tell her at this point in her life, this is her hard thing. And if she can learn to do it without complaining (aloud or in her heart), then she will be a better person. She can learn that the next hard thing will make her even stronger. Then when something really hard comes along, she'll be able to face it with steadfastness, with unwavering faith in her loving Creator.

Life is hard. It is okay. If it was easy, think of what worthless people we would be. We get to learn patience, perseverance, trust, contentment, all kinds of great qualities that ultimately make us more like Christ.

Isn't that what it's really all about anyway? Who wants to stay the way they are? We can look at hard times as an inconvenience, a bump in the road, a time to wallow in self-pity, or we can "count it all joy" and ask God to show us how we can come out looking more like His Son, "perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Favorites

Yesterday as everyone was loading up to leave for church, I found Handsome crying in the car and saying he was hungry. I thought it was odd that he was crying about that, but I told him to go inside really quick and grab something. On his way out of the car he threw up - all over the garage floor. Thank you, Lord, it wasn't in the car! We all unloaded and stayed home to spare spreading any germs we may be carrying.


Whenever anyone is sick we lay a mattress in our bathroom floor and they get to hang out (be quarantined) in there watching movies on the portable tv until they are better.


One time when I went in to check on him and I said, "You know you're one of my favorites, right?" With a shy grin he said, "Yeah."


Of course, I tell each of them they are my favorites, but I think he might be the one that believes it the most.

PMS is REAL! (This post is for Women only)

I know some of you women out there don't have a clue what it's like to have PMS but I do! Let me tell you it is not a myth. It is real.

I've been dealing with hormones for a looonnnggg time now! What bugs me is they are never consistent. So I can't always plan on it. Sometimes it's bad when I ovulate, sometimes before "my friend" arrives, sometimes during "her" visit. Sometimes I break out, sometimes I don't. Sometimes it's slight, sometimes it's major.

I actually allow 2-3 days off a month from school just for the days I wake up and know "I will not be a good teacher today."

I thought they had gotten better but for the last three days I have been mad! And I didn't even know what I was mad about. Tuesday Hubby asked me if I needed to talk about anything. I told him I was ticked off at everyone and everything. I have yelled at the kids so much, I overheard the World Changer saying, "Why is she always yelling so much?"

I kept saying, "God, just tell me what the heck I'm so angry about so I can get over it!" For some dumb reason I didn't check the calendar to see if it was time for my period. I was ready, however, to jump out a window or call an exorcist, whichever would have been easiest!

Thankfully we were out of the house a good portion of Wednesday and Thursday. My mom asked if I wanted her to stay at the house Thursday instead of me taking the kids out for our field trip. I said, "No, I can't yell at them in public, so we'll be fine."

Last night I finally felt better. And have been fine since. It's literally like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Hubby tells me I am a completely different person. Thankfully, I don't always yell like I did this week - this was a particularly bad "episode." Sometimes I'm just a little on edge and irritable and sometimes, like I said before, I actually want to jump out of a window. Of course, I wouldn't do that because I keep at least enough rationale to realize that that would really hurt! Ouch!

Anyway, I gave a nice apology to the kids this morning along with a science lesson about women and hormones. My boys are going to know more about this stuff than their wives probably!

(P.S. Yes, I've had my hormones checked in the past and had uneven levels. I've adjusted my diet and that didn't seem to affect it. I honestly believe I need to get my behind to the gym again. I've been slacking the last 3 months and I think that could be a reason I had such a tough time.)

Beyond the Gates of Splendor

One day last week during Bible-time, we read a story about Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, Pete Fleming, Ed McCully and Roger Youdarian who were missionaries in Ecuador in the 1950s. After I read it and we talked about it, I told the kids I had a video about these guys called "Beyond the Gates of Splendor" that we could watch after school.

I couldn't wait. We watched it right away.

Although I had watched the movie twice before, I kept getting names and faces mixed up and had a hard time following it. It is narrated by Nate Saint's son and the 5 missionaries' wives. Now that I had just read the story to the kids, it all made a lot more sense to watch and I was able to get so much more out of it.

Oh, the love these men and women lived out. I will try to make the story short. In the 1950s, five young, growing families all lived at separate bases in Ecuador. At some point, the men decided they wanted to reach a tribe of people known for their relentless killing of each other. One would kill another, so a family member of the one killed would kill the killer. On and on it went. The children of the tribe knew they would grow up to be speared to death or spear someone else to live. No one wanted to have anything to do with them...except these Jesus-following men from the States.

They started by using a small aircraft to drop "gifts" to the tribe and eventually landed on a small beach and befriended 3 of the tribe members. One day two of those tribe members got in trouble for going off alone, so they lied and said it was the foreigners' fault. This, of course, angered the tribe and some of the men decided to kill the foreigners.

By this time the missionaries had a fort built up in a tree and had been on this small beach for 3 or 4 days. They had taken guns with them, but when the tribesmen came to kill them, they didn't even try to use them. Why?

The missionaries knew the men from the tribe were not ready to die because they would go to hell. But they knew they were ready and were willing to die in their place. They also knew that if they shot and killed the tribe members, it would be practically impossible to ever reach them for Jesus.

The result...the tribe was reached by a couple of the widows who stayed to continue the work. Fifty plus years later Nate Saint's son and family have been back to Ecuador to minister to the natives and teach them how to spread the Word to others. One of the men responsible for the killings is actually called grandfather by Mr. Saint's grandson.

What an example of love and forgiveness! What an example of dying to self! What a legacy to leave for the generations after them!

If you want to learn more, here is the website for the documentary: http://www.beyondthegatesthemovie.com/

UPDATE: "Beyond the Gates of Splendor" is a documentary. Karen reminded me of "At the End of the Spear" which is movie format of the events. I haven't seen it so can't say if it's okay for kids to watch or not. I'll be looking into it for myself, though. Thanks, Karen, for the reminder.

Our Story

Thirteen years ago today, I married the man of my dreams.

Here is our story:

In highschool, he went to the Christian academy that was associated with my church. I would sometimes go to soccer or basketball games with my friends from church who also went to the academy and would see him there (he played). Sometimes he would come to our church with his friends on Sunday nights. When I would see him walk in, I would pray that he would sit in front of me so I could shake his hand during the "shaking hand" time.

I had the biggest crush on him.

I was at his graduation in 1991 because I had friends graduating with him. In the little book that listed everyone's name and what they wanted to do after highschool, his said he wanted to be a youth pastor. I thought, "He's cute, cool and he loves God!" At that time in my mind those things didn't go together. At the reception, my sister's friend took a picture of him and I put in my request for a copy. That picture hung in my locker my senior year (until my current boyfriend came to school and made me take it down).

A year or two later, my sister and her friend saw him at a comedy club and reported how cute he was! My reply was, "I might as well quite lusting after this guy. I'm never going to get a date with him anyway."

In January 1995, I started attending our current church. I was in need of a change from where I had been. I knew he went there but that was not my purpose in going. I'm serious!! Besides, I was sure he had a girlfriend.

One Wednesday night, as I was walking toward the College and Career class, I was having this conversation with God about how my motives for switching churches were pure and I wasn't there to meet him. I think I was trying to keep from getting my hopes up. I hadn't even laid eyes on him yet.

Well, sure enough, he and a friend were outside the building next door trying to decide if they were going to go to another church that night. I won't say why they were going to do that, but it had something to do with there not being any girls at our church that they were interested in.

When he saw me walking toward the class, he decided to stay. Oh, my beating heart! There he was, in the flesh!! The class was set up in a circle and he sat right across from me. I didn't hear a word. The only thing I was paying attention to was whether he caught me looking at him or not.

On his way out that night, he introduced himself. I said, "I know who you are."

He asked me out for our first date Sunday morning, January 22, 1995. When I got home I told my parents that "I was keeping this one."

I was still going to my old church on Sunday nights so he met me there after the service. He was too nervous to eat so we picked up Taco Bell for me and watched a movie at his house.

Eight and a half months later we were all dressed up as bride and groom. I wasn't a bit nervous. But when they opened the doors and I saw him standing at the altar, he took my breath away. I started to shake and cry a little. Dad asked if I was okay. All I could say was, "He's so beautiful!"

I often say that I don't know why God gave him to me because I don't deserve him. But oh how thankful I am.

Happy Anniversary, Babe! I love you forever and always!

Get Well, Meme!

Hope these pictures brighten your day.

We're praying for you to have a speedy recovery.

Can't wait to see you Thursday!

God's Love

I have been a Christian since I was 6. When I met my future mate 14 years ago, however, is when I really began to realize what the Christian life is about. It's not rules and regulations, it's a daily relationship with Jesus Christ. Seeing that relationship in his life showed me how far I was missing the mark and inspired me to grow in my own relationship with the Lord.

Fastforward to this year - 2008. This year God has made it a point to help me understand even more what being a daughter of the King really means. He has put me in just the right places several times in the last 9 months to show me, prove to me, teach me, and fill me with His love.

It is easy for me to accept commands of the Bible. It has not been as easy for me to accept the promises of the Bible. Especially those about God's love. For example Psalm 139; I either think, "Well that was just for David" or I think, "Where did I go wrong?"

In my mind, I need to do more or be better in order to be acceptable to God, to be loved by Him. I have believed lies from the enemy. I have stunted my spiritual growth by doing so.

The truth is I cannot fully, unconditionally love others until I have understood the love of my Father. The truth is He loves me simply because I exist. I don't have to do a thing. That truth amazes me. It humbles me. It stills me.

I wonder who am I that He would be so purposeful this year in my life. His answer to me is that I am His child. I am His beloved. I am His.

Romans 8:39

Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Memory

The one thing I always remember is that I can't remember anything!

I'm always telling someone that I can't or won't remember something unless I write it down.

It could be something I need to do or even a story or conversation I'm retelling. I will more than likely forget all or part of it.

Tonight, Hubby remembered we had videos due back at the library. The library is only a few minutes away so he was just going to run drop them off before it closed.

A few minutes later, (note: a few minutes) the World Changer comes in looking for Daddy. I said, "I don't know where he is, maybe downstairs."

He comes back and says, "He's not downstairs." I said, "I don't know, try calling him." So he calls and calls his name. No answer. I'm starting to get annoyed that he's not answering and hasn't told anyone where he is.

I start calling him and finally realize, Oh yeah! He went to the library.

Seriously! 34 is too young for this, isn't it?!

What if...

What if instead of asking our kids what they want to be when they grow up (implying what career path they want to strive for), we ask them, "What kind of person do you want to be when you grow up?"

Or instead of asking what they want to do when they grow up, what if we ask them, "How do you want to serve Jesus when you grow up?"

Our Gift - 5 Years Ago Today

Today was Cutie Pie's 5th birthday. We celebrated with presents and muffins in the morning. This afternoon before church, Mrs. Helton and the boys stopped by bearing gifts. We skipped church because the birthday boy wanted to go bowling. So after eating the cool football field cake that the Lead Dog made (I was at my last photo class and actually didn't even think about a cake), we went to Chick-fil-a and the bowling alley. It was league night aka no lanes available. So the kids played a little in the arcade and we headed home to meet Mamaw and Papaw for more presents.

I've decided to change Cutie Pie's code name to World Changer because I'm sure that's what he will be. He will be the one to stand up for what is right when no one else will. He won't back down because of what others think. Hubby and I decided this morning that there is no way anyone has a kid as strong-willed as he is. I would bet lots and lots of money on it. Dr. Dobson would need counseling with this kid.
When he's sweet, you could just eat him up. When he's not, bring on the Valium (for me, not him)! Okay, I don't actually take Valium. I'm not even sure that's the right drug. But I digress...

On this day 5 years ago, our lives changed forever. If we hadn't had the World Changer, we would really think we had it altogether as parents. He has shown us our great need for the Holy Spirit's work and help in our lives. I have been patient beyond anything I could have ever imagined. I have also not been patient but we're not talking about me here. Actually, we probably are. This child is a lot like me!

Our hope is that if he is like me, he will have strong convictions and will want to do what's right and please his Heavenly Father. He'll just have a heck of a time at it. It's hard for people like us. There are many days I wanna be someone else. Oh, how I want to be someone else. How do you balance God-given passion so that it doesn't run wild in wrong directions offending others, embarrassing yourself, and dishonoring your Maker? I know, I know...lots and lots and lots and lots (I could keep going) of prayer and Scripture.

God has done and is still doing a mighty work in me and our prayer for this blessing from God is that we will do everything we should to teach him the right convictions of loving God and loving others, to teach him self-control that I still battle, and to teach him how to run to the only One who can truly help him while in this sinful fleshly dwelling.

James 1:17

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

Family Driven Faith & The One We Almost Didn't Have

by Voddie Baucham, Jr. Part 2

I'm loving this book! I just wish we had read it 4 years ago. Here's an exerpt from "The Anti-Child Culture:"

After Bridget became pregnant with our son [their second child], the pressure was on. Countless well-meaning people were whispering in Bridget's ear. Some warned, "Girl, you'd better not get stuck with a bunch of kids." Others tried to be more diplomatic and simply pointed out how much the cost of college tuition had risen, or the price of groceries. Unfortunately, the voices in our ear trumped the voice of God. When Trey was born, we hired a doctor to speak to God on our behalf. He took a scalpel and sutures and told God, "The Bauchams hereby declare that they no longer trust, nor welcome you in this area of their lives."

Years later they tried to get a reversal but it could not be done. He writes...

We cannot go back and undo what we did. However, we can shout from the rooftops until all who hear us know that children are a blessing and that God opens and closes the womb. We must receive children with joy instead of bemoaning their birth.

The size of our families has become a matter of income and convenience. Our attitude toward children is, "A boy for me and a girl for you, then praise the Lord, we're finally through!"

The Bauchams have since adopted 2 more children. And are waiting for more.

This is the child we almost didn't have. I got pregnant with her 2 weeks before Hubby's vasectomy. Our excuse (or mine) was that after having 4 children in just under 4 years, we just couldn't have another one as close. Well we did, and I don't know what I'd do without her. I wonder who else we've missed out on.

Little R

Love those blue eyes and freckles!

Goals

Where would we be without goals? You know the saying, "If you shoot at nothing, you're sure to hit it!"

Some goals are simple, some complex. Some are seemingly impossible, while some are a breeze. Some are personal, some involve many people.

Today, I have a goal! Ten loads of laundry done by 7 o'clock tonight! Seemingly impossible? I'll let you know! I'm off to put on my super-laundry-woman cape and conquer the stinch that is...LAUNDRY!

UPDATE: I didn't make it. I got caught up in school and didn't stick to my plan of getting one load in every hour. So at exactly 7:oo the buzzer went off for my 8th load. It took until 8:15 to get the last two done. Still got 10 done today, so I'm glad about that.

Thanks for the cheers!

Photography Class Info

Some of you have asked about the Photography Class I'm taking. If he can get a minimum of 8 people to commit to it, here are the details:

Tuesdays

October 14-November 4

7:00-9:00pm

John Radcliffe Studio off Lee Road

Cost is $100

Last night everything starting making sense - ISO, Aperture, Shutter Speed, White Balance, Light Exposure. I'm hoping to retake some shots that I took before (when I had no idea what I was doing) and post some before and afters! So you can see proof that it's really helping.

Christ in our Home

Our husbands are Christ's representation in our home. Yikes! Do I treat my husband like I would treat Christ if He was walking around in the flesh in my home?

Ephesians 5 (emphasis mine)
"Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands...and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

I used to believe that respect had to be earned. And in some cases that is true. But in cases of headship and lines of authority, respect is given merely because of the position given by God. And God has put our husbands in a position in which He commands us (not suggests to us) that we respect them and submit to them.

Why do we have such a hard time with this? Lies from the enemy in the forms of worldly counsel and fear.

The world does not tell you that your husband will give account for how he leads your family. And you aren't told that you will be held accountable for how you follow him, support him and help him. You aren't encouraged to make his job as head of your home a little easier by not bucking every decision he makes; by not complaining about everything he does. You are told to look out for #1 - SELF! The Bible teaches us to die to self. In sincerity, ask your husband how you can help him. What are his goals for you family and how can you help him achieve them?

We are afraid if we let go and relinquish control to God by allowing our husbands to do their jobs, everything will fall apart. We aren't told that there is security, relief and blessing in obeying God and submitting to our husband's authority - even if you think he's wrong. Aside from anything illegal or immoral, we are commanded to submit in "everything."

There's a story of a wife who's husband was not so good with money. Not so good with paying the bills. But he wanted to be the one to take care of that for the family. Well, sure enough, one day the electricity goes out. He hadn't paid the bill. What she could have done was rant and rave to the children about what a slacker their father is. And when he walked in that door that evening, let him have it. Tell him all about what a failure he is and how he should just listen to her. Then everything would be just fine.

However, what she did was amazing. Her children asked her what they were going to do. She said they were going to pretend they were living like Little House on the Prairie. And when her husband came home, they had the table set with candles and whatever food could be fixed without the use of stoves, ovens or microwaves.

Her husband said that inspired him more than any tongue-lashing ever could.

What if you feel your husband isn't leading? Or isn't leading they way you want him to? Pray for him and zip it.

I Peter 3:1-2
"Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct."

One last thought, do we treat our husbands the way we want our sons to be treated by their wives one day?

Family Driven Faith

by Voddie Baucham, Jr.

This guy is one of my favorites. I first heard him speak on marriage. Wow! There is no question where he stands. I am now reading his book, Family Driven Faith: Doing what it takes to raise sons and daughters who walk with God.

Here is an exerpt from the first chapter:

"The most important side of my life is the one where I bear my most cherished titles - husband and father. There is nothing in this world that means more to me than the fact that I am Bridget's husband and Asher, Jasmine, Trey, and Elijah's father. Whenever I say that, I can almost hear people thinking, "Shouldn't your relationship with Christ mean more to you than your family life?" I guess in an ultimate sense that is the case. However, my family is the primary place where my walk with Christ takes on flesh. It is one thing for me to have a personal relationship with Jesus. However, if I spend hours reading the Bible and praying and invest the lion's share of my time ministering to others while neglecting my role as husband and father, my relationship with Christ is out of balance or, worse, inauthentic.

It is my relationship with my wife and children that gives my walk with Christ legitimacy...my earthly relationships are the proving ground for my heavenly one. If I love God, it will be evident in my love for my brothers and sisters (especially those who live under my roof).

That's just in the first few pages of the book! Good stuff. Look for more to come...

Trials of Various Kinds...

...brought to me from 5 children of various kinds!

Today has been one of those days where I feel like I'm going from one situation to the next with the kids...and it's only 1 o'clock. The patience and emotional stamina it takes on days like this can absolutely drain me physically.

I picked up a book I'm reading, When You Rise Up, by R.C. Sproul, Jr. The first two lines I read were:

"When God regenerates a heart, that heart bears spiritual fruit. And a vital part of that fruit is a renewed mind, the capacity to look at the world through God's eyes, to see all that we do in light of serving his kingdom."

"....to see all that we do in light of serving his kingdom." So, I think to myself, "Okay. How am I serving His kingdom. How is this day serving Him?" Because, let me tell you, if there is no purpose except to survive each day, then what is the point?

My answer was clear...I am raising warriors for His kingdom. I am raising a new generation to love, serve and glorify Him. Today, it may not seem like they are getting it. Today, it may feel like they've forgotten everything we've ever taught them. Today, it may feel like aliens really do exist and they have come to live in my house, overtaking my children's minds and bodies!

But it gives me a new perspective and a revived spirit when I understand that there is a purpose for addressing these issues.

I could ignore them. I could stick them in front of the TV all day. I could send them to school and pack their schedules full to escape such trials.

What good would that do? What purpose would that serve? In their lives or mine? I'm reminded of James 1:2-8:

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

Photography Class

I'm taking a photography class this month. We bought an expensive digital SLR about 3 years ago and I've always wanted to figure out how to use it better - without reading the manual. I have picked up the manual several times and started reading it, but I could never finish.

So our assignment from last week was to take a picture using the info we learned. Here's what I took. It looks best in sepia but I don't have that option on my pitiful photo editing programs. Guess I need that on Christmas wish list.

Peace in Parenting...from the Moraes Family

I was reading http://moraesfamily.blogspot.com/ and loved this post! With permission, I'm copying it here:

Ever since homeschool started, I've been engaged in numerous conversations with moms concerned about whether they are doing enough! Anxiously wondering if their children can compete with their public and private school counterparts.

I've taken part in loads of conversations with people who feel as failures, because their children do not add up to some "expectation" placed on them by other moms and their perception of what is taking place in other people's households. Fear and worry are shaking the very foundation of most, no, I take that back, all moms! (If you are reading this and feel you are the exception... call me, I'd like to pick your brain a bit! :) )

Sadly, I admit to being consumed with many of the same worries and fears. And here is where I choose to take a stand. For my own sanity's sake and the well-being of my family.

1. I choose to be myself, no matter what I think others might think of me.

2. I choose to honor God and only God for His will for my family.

3. I choose to enjoy and love my children exactly where they are and not constantly worry about how they measure up.

4. I choose to find peace in the fact that my children are wonderfully, fearfully and creatively designed to serve the greater purpose that the Lord has appointed them to.

5. I choose to encourage my children to be themselves (not someone else's child) and to find their God given gifts and abilites.

6. I choose to pray, pray, pray and pray some more. To faithfully intercede on their bahalf, pray for their protection, and like Job, ask for the forgiveness of their sins.

7. I choose to forgive myself for the mistakes that I've made and those that I will probably make in the future.

8. I choose to accept that my kids are a work in progress, just as I am! And just as I am not perfect, I should not expect them to be.

9. I choose to do my very best and then move over so that God will finish the work that He started in them.

NOTE TO MOMS READING THIS: Mom, you are doing a great job!! Don't allow worry to rob you of the time you have with your children. Before you know it, they will be gone. Make the most of every moment. Laugh, run through the rain barefoot, see the beauty in your children. Don't worry about their flaws, just be faithful and consistant. God will handle the rest. Pass on your faith with eagerness and let your Godly example shape your children's hearts. So they're dirty from head to toe, so your 4 year old doesn't read, so your 10 year old hasn't memorized the periodic table of elements, so child one picked a booger and flung it at child two, so what!! (Okay maybe that last one needs addressing LOL). Worry will only rob you of the joy your children bring. God's plan will prevail!! Lean on Christ in everything you do!! My prayer is that we rest in Him and allow Him to pour His peace into our hearts.
Hey, I'm a work in progress too...... but we all need encouragement sometimes! :)

Well said, Mrs. Moraes! Well said!

The Battle

My post a few days ago revealed a side to me most of you don't get to see or hear about. I, too, have days that are stressful and disheartening with respect to my children. But my sweet husband reminded me of

Ephesians 6:12

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

There are days we feel we are fighting our children. But in reality we are fighting FOR our children. We are in a battle with the rulers of darkness who want nothing more than for us to give up, give in, cop out! And that makes me angry! That fires me up! That gets me going!

God gives us our children as blessings. And with our children comes the responsibility to guide and shape them into warriors for His Kingdom! It is NOT easy! It is not a task for the fainthearted or lazy! But it is worth it.

We will be held accountable for what we do with the lives of these little ones. Sure they have free will and will do what they want with what we give them. So, what they do with their lives one day is between them and God. But what we do now and invest in now is what we will give account for.

Cece often says, "The value of anything is the price it pays in eternity." Education, in and of itself, has no value in eternity. What we do with that education does. Talents and gifts alone have no value unless used to glorify and honor the King of kings. If any of these things are cultivated and groomed for approval of men, they are worthless.

Galatians 1:10

For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.

So, let's step it up. What fills our days that is worthy of bringing before the throne? What things have we labeled "important" that really aren't?

In Mark, someone asked Jesus which commandment was the most important. Jesus told him,

"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."

We fight the enemy when this is what is fostered, nourished, encouraged, praised and exalted as significant in our lives and our children's lives.