Wordless Wednesday

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In Other Words

“At the heart of the story stands the cross of Christ

where evil did its worst and met its match.”

~ John Wenham ~

When I read this quote my first thought was "without the cross, there is no story." In John 19:30, Jesus spoke the words, "It is finished". The cross is the finished work. Nothing can stand up against it.

In our ladies bible study on Tuesday morning, we have been writing down three scriptures every week which show "who I am in Christ". As I prepared the three to bring this morning, I found these three verses so fitting for today and this week:

• Healed by the stripes of JESUS He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. 1 Peter 2:24
• Kept by God and the evil one does not touch me We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him. 1 John 5:18
• Delivered from the power of darkness and translated into God's kingdom For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves Colossians 1:13

For more "In Other Words" visit Sting My Heart.

Menu Plan Monday

When life keeps our family from gathering at the table for several days in a row, I usually have a longing for us to be together. This evening was one of those times. Due to the busyness of this past week or so we hadn't been able to eat together as a family for several days. Even though my plans tonight were very simple and included leftovers, I went ahead and set the table. Too often in our weariness, especially when our children are young, we fail to sit together quietly and enjoy our meal together. I had explained in this post some of the reasons and the purpose for my meal planning.

Another purpose for meal planning is the teaching of etiquette. But it may not be what you think. I am not looking for my children to become "proper" or be able to walk into a five star restaurant and act like an adult.
But as I mentioned here, our table is one of the best places to teach our children important biblical principles. The place we start from is "Your Manners Matter". Colossians 4:5-6 says,

Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. (ESV)

The foundation of all etiquette is kindness, which expresses itself by consideration for the people around you. Knowing proper etiquette makes you feel comfortable so that you can reach out to others and make them feel important. If you are concerned about making a mistake or appearing to be foolish, then your thoughts are consumed with yourself. However, when you know how to properly conduct yourself in the presence of others, then you are free to focus on them.

Next week, I'll share how I have taken these principles and put them into practice everyday with my own family.

Here is what I am planning to serve my family this week:
Monday: Busy Day Beef Stew with Sourdough rolls
Tuesday: Taco Soup
Wednesday: (Cooking Day for my kids - they will make the menu Mon. evening)
Thursday: Swiss Chicken Bake and salad
Friday: Swiss Potato Soup
Saturday: Lasagna, salad and garlic bread
Easter Sunday Dinner


A few weeks ago a few of you asked about the recipe for Chicken Packets. This is one of my kids favorite meals. Several years ago I had tried the "once- a- month cooking" idea in order to save time. This is the only recipe that has lasted since those days.


3-4 cups cooked, chopped chicken
1 package cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons milk
2 or 3 packages refrigerated crescent rolls*

(the original recipe called for chopped chives and salt to taste)


Mix chicken, cream cheese, and milk in a bowl. Unroll crescent rolls. Each tube will contain 4 rectangles of dough with a diagonal perforation. Press dough along each perforation so the rectangle halves will not separate. Place about 1/4 cup of chicken mixture into the center of each rectangle. Fold dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal tightly. Place packets on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown. They are even good cold the next day.

*two rolls make eight packets. If I have extra chicken mixture, it makes a great chicken salad or sandwich too.

For more great menu ideas and other great organizing tips visit I'm an Organizing Junkie.

A heart for the lost

Earlier this year a friend referred me to a little resource titled, "A Gospel Primer for Christians" written by Milton Vincent, Pastor of Cornerstone Bible Fellowship Church in Riverside, California. I have been using this resource to memorize scripture and "experience the gospel more fully by preaching it to myself each day."

He says in his introduction, "God did not give us His gospel just so we could embrace it and be converted. Actually, He offers it to us every day as a gift that keeps on giving to us everything we need for life and godliness."

This morning I was able to sit for an unexpectedly long time in the quiet praying and reading through the "Prose and Poetic Version" of this Gospel Narrative and than I read it again along with all the scripture references.
Wow, what a refreshing time. It was the cup of cold water my soul needed. I am in desperate need of the gospel daily in my life. His great love for me. I want the truths of what scripture speaks embedded on my heart.

He writes in a section of Part I - Reasons to Rehearse the Gospel Daily, "A Heart for the Lost",
"What effect do such gospel meditations have upon Paul? What emotions do they produce in him besides the obvious joy he feels while reciting them? Paul bares his soul at the very beginning of chapter 9: "I have great sorrow," he says, "and unceasing grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed, separated from Christ, for the sake of my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh."
Coming down from the heights of gospel meditation, Paul's heart was devastated by a burden for his fellow Jews to experience the saving power of the gospel. His burden existed long before he started writing, but it was undoubtedly intensified by his rehearsal of gospel truths in Romans 5-8, a rehearsal which inevitably led his thoughts toward the plight of those outside of Christ.
Hence, if I wish to have a 'Romans 9' kind of burden for non-Christians, I should become practiced at celebrating the gospel as Paul does in Romans 5-8. Over time, my joy in the gospel will become increasingly tinged with grief, and this grief-stained joy will lend a God-inspired passion to my ministry of evangelizing the lost."

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;" Ephesians 2:8

You can obtain a copy of this little resource here.

Puddle Jumping

I watched my six year old kindergarten son walk to his classroom this morning. We had left home without his backpack in hand and had to return home to retrieve it. When we returned to the school, he wasn't late yet, but his class had already gone inside. When other kids were hurrying up the sidewalk to find their place in line, my son unaware of those around him or the time, gently jumped over each puddle left on the sidewalk from the overnight rains. I sat watching and enjoying the moment as he carefully and joyfully leaped about the sidewalk even turning around at one point to make sure he jumped a puddle that was almost missed.

I am trying to treasure these days, his skinny little legs, his cheerful delight as he skips, hops, or runs to the building. Kindergarten is such a magical time for kids. Whether I homeschooled my kids in kindergarten or sent them to the public school, I have thoroughly enjoyed each of their kindergarten years.

Motherhood is exhausting at times and the demands are great. Too often I have missed these moments in my hurried state of trying to get to what is next. All of my children have gone through a growth spurt lately, not just in size, but in every area. It is like they are changing right before my eyes and I can do nothing to stop it but possibly stop myself and enjoy the moment.

A Dyson

5minutesformom is giving away a Dyson Slim Vacumm. Go here and sign Mr. Linky and write your own post about the opportunity to win one of these.

A few years back we went on a vacuum research and investigation adventure. We had gone through too many vacuums in a very short period of time and had invested a lot of money in all types. We put forth the money for a Dyson DC 07 original and have no regrets. I have had the vacuum for almost two years now and I know with a much less inexpensive model I was replacing them at least once a year.

Go check out 5minutesformom.

A Balcony Woman

I have a few women in my life who I would love to refer to as a"Balcony Woman". Joyce Heatherly in her book "Special Words" describes Balcony People as those "who by experience, by education in the school of suffering, and by the wisdom gleaned from life is our affirmer. They are people who take delight in honoring one another (a rare commodity these days) Balcony People not only love us but have great respect for us. They listen to us with their ears and hear us with their hearts."

These type of people are rare. They can look beyond the moment and see the heart. I would not be the woman I am today without those who have stood in the balcony of my life and cheered me on. They stood to their feet and applauded with great delight during certain scenes and lingered long after everyone else had gone home.

I too want to be a Balcony Woman to others. It is during those years as a young wife and mommy that we need others who will stand with us, listen to our hearts and affirm us in the role that God has fashioned for us as women. Do you have a "Balcony Woman" in your life?

Wordless Wednesday - A boy, his dog and his little brother

Retreat...

Amazing, wonderful, awesome God! Those are the words that just begin to scratch the surface of what I experienced this weekend with the wonderful ladies who attended our Spring Retreat. We shed a whole lot of tears and received very little sleep. Someone asked me today what my favorite part of our weekend together was and after trying to just pick one I said, "looking around the room hours after our service had ended and seeing women huddled together in corners of the room praying together. No one was ever in a hurry to leave. They stayed and stayed. They blessed each other, encouraged each other, cried with each other, and prayed for each other. I am truly not the same. These precious women have touched my life in a way that is difficult to put into words. We went...just as we were...we heard His invitation..."Come to me" and we responded.

I don't have my menu plan ready for the rest of the week. I was tired today but it was a good tired. Thank you to all those who prayed! Your prayers touched many lives.

Come...Just as you are

I leave early tomorrow morning (Fri.) with 50 plus other women to converge on a beautiful Hotel. I would greatly appreciate your prayers as I am sharing the Word of God Friday evening and Saturday morning. We are having some fun girl type discussions on various topics related to issues specifically for women Saturday evening and then Sunday morning we are having a beautiful worship service.

The Spirit and the Bride say, "Come." And let the one who hears say, "Come." And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. Revelation 22:17 (ESV)

I know...I know...

I told you here I would be away for a few days, but this morning I woke up with the stomach flu and was unable to be at our ladies bible study so I missed the time in prayer and study of God's word. I was able to take a nap this morning and I am drinking fluids. The extra rest was good!

I came downstairs to my computer to do my devotions and I have to give a shout out to two posts I read this afternoon which have inspired and challenged me. If you haven't stopped by CWO's new Internet Cafe,

than now is the time. The post is titled "You Can't Have Her!" and be prepared you may find yourself ready to ride into battle with the sword of the spirit, the helmet of salvation, the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, and your feet covered with the gospel of peace shouting those exact words, "You can't have her!" So many come to mind as I prepare to get down on my knees praying in the Spirit for those who are lost and hurting. I also see that there are those who need my arms to lock with theirs and hear those words, "you are not alone."


And if that isn't enough...then go and read Cyndi at One Day More take some "bread and a few fish" (a $250.00 check and some prayers) and read how God has transformed their lives and thinking when it comes to their treasure. It will change the question from, "Lord, how much do I give?" to "Lord, how much should I keep?

Go, read and be encouraged!

Some time away.....and a few other thoughts

I will be taking the next several days and step away from this blog (hopefully!) to continue preparing my heart for our upcoming Spring Ladies Retreat this weekend. I am very excited about getting away with so many ladies. The team of women putting this together have been fabulous to work with and have carefully tended to every detail with great love. I would appreciate your prayers for our time away together.

It is the end of Jennifer at Snapshot month long challenge to read with our children. One of the questions she asked was, "how did the mission help you actually read more?" Like most things, when I state publicly I plan to do something, it keeps me accountable to my plans. Although reading together is not a challenge for our family at this time, it wasn't always the case. It took discipline to set aside the time to read aloud and patience not to get frustrated with varying listening skills. But the rewards of watching and listening to my husband read to my children is so worth it. Many of the books I posted about here , we are still reading. The kids have finished some of their individual books, but not all of them. So, thank you Jennifer for hosting such a great challenge and encouraging us all to treasure those words, "mommy...will you please read to me."

I may not be here for several days, but feel free to stop in and take a peek around. Not too fancy, but hopefully it is warm and encouraging.

Blessings,

Chris

Menu Plan Monday

Does God care about what happens in our day? Absolutely! Regardless of the tasks we face, without God's assistance, we cannot succeed. We may get the dishes washed, the laundry folded, and the beds made...we may get our work done without accident or incident....we may find what we need at the market and manage to keep a schedule. But without God being first place in our hearts, thoughts, and plans it is all done in vain. When I have added commitments and activities, it is easy to try and do everything in my own strength. It is easy for me not to stop and spend time in worship before the Lord. It is easy for me not to receive proper rest.

It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest,eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. Psalm 127:2

I need to be reminded of this more than ever this week as I prepare for our Spring Ladies Retreat.

Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. Psalm 127:1 (ESV)

Here is my menu plan for this week:

Monday: Chicken packets, baked potatoes, salad
Tuesday: Tortilla Soup with chips
Wednesday: Lasagna, garlic bread and salad
Thursday: Leftovers......
I am leaving Friday morning for our Ladies Retreat (yippee) and my husband will take care of the weekend. I have stocked the freezer with plenty of options.

For more great menus go to Organizing Junkie

The Source of my Life

I love scripture prayers. Kelly at A Spacious Place wrote a beautiful prayer using Ephesians 6:10-20. Beth Moore in the introduction to her book Praying God's Word says, "I am utterly convinced that the two major weapons with divine power in our warfare are the Word of God and Spirit-empowered prayer."

This morning in my Life Journal I wrote out a prayer from 1 Corinthians 1:26-31:

"Brothers, think of what you were when you were called.

Lord, I was the quiet one, the one that was easily forgotten and searched high and low for real value in this life.

Not many of you were wise by human standards;

Lord, I was referred to as the "nice" one, average, hardly noticed by others.

not many were influential;

Lord, I often wondered if others even remembered my name.

not many were of noble birth.

Lord, I was born to a nineteen year old girl forced to leave her young husband due to substance abuse and facing a very uncertain future

But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise;

Lord, in the world's eyes I know I was thought of as foolish. By their standards I did not have a chance.

God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.

Lord, thank you for choosing me.

He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.

Lord, today I know where my strength and hope comes from. It comes from you and you alone. I do not boast in anything, but only in the blood of Jesus that covers my sin.

It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."

Lord, your word says in Psalm 139, "My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.before the foundations of the earth you knew my form and what I would face when you placed me here on earth."

Lord, you are the source of my life. I have been sanctified, made righteous, and redeemed through Christ Jesus. Amen.

Everyone makes mistakes sometime

Today I was busily pounding away on my keyboard preparing for an upcoming ministry event. I was keeping an eye on the clock and trying to make the best use of my time while my two year old napped. What I failed to remember was that for some reason the time on my computer was still wrong and I hadn't bothered to change it yet. I was startled when the phone rang and caller ID displayed the elementary school. Nancy, the ever so sweet school secretary told me Hunter was waiting for me. I yelped in disbelief that I had forgotten my kindergarten son. There he was standing at the office window waiting for me. When we got into the car I apologized profusely and he said, "Mom, it's ok. I forgive you. Don't you know everyone makes mistakes sometime?" I marveled at his tender willingness to forgive so quickly. I wondered if I would have been forgotten, would I have been so quick to say, "everyone makes mistakes sometime?"

Wordless Wednesday - Cowboys

In "Other" Words

As a young bride at twenty two, married to the man who had prayed for me at the tender age of fifteen, I had a very limited understanding of what God's design for marriage was. I knew I was to "leave" and "cleave" and that we were "one flesh", but beyond this, I began a life hoping to find joy and fulfilment only to discover that I struggled deeply within myself. I had a husband who loved me immensely, I was a born again Christian and it just seemed everything should be fine. I found the unfulfilled expectations I had seemed hopeless. Most of my struggles did not stem from my husband, but from my own fears and insecurities. I did not believe that I was capable of being loved. I struggled to accept God's unconditional love for my life and all of this only spilled over into my relationship with my husband. Over the years God has stretched our relationship to the very core. Our love for each other never wavered but the storms of life pounded against us one right after another at times.

James 1:2-8 (ESV) says,

"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."

As the years went on I sought the Lord with everything in me. I did not want all these trials and troubles wasted. I asked the Lord for wisdom and understanding on His plan for marriage. I lived to this point in my plan for marriage and it was not working for me. Slowly, the Lord moved me down a path showing me not only His plan for marriage but brought healing and deliverance from the struggles that had entangled my life. God brought people and put me in places where biblical truths were taught and this changed my life dramatically. One truth in particular sticks out in my mind that changed my course for good. "Marriage was not designed to make me happy, but to bring God glory!" My marriage was to bring God glory! What a enormous relief this was to me. My joy (happiness) could only come from the Lord and Him alone, and therefore the joy I experienced in my marriage was a result of following God's plan for a biblical marriage. I live each day hoping my marriage will continually bring glory to God!

"One of the secrets to a happy marriage is remembering the source of our joy, which is not one another. The source of our joy is the Lord. Yes, we share tons of joyous moments, but we don't expect, let alone demand, endless joy-filled moments from each other. "

~ Liz Curtis Higgs ~from the devotional: Rise and Shine

For more "In Other Words" visit Darlene Schacht here

Menu Plan Monday

A new week! And there is a plenty to keep me very very busy throughout this week. My menu is intentionally simple with familiar recipes. The next couple of weeks will be busy and I recognize that if I am going to serve my family warm home cooked meals, they must be simple ones.

Spring Cleaning is on the horizon and for many years I used the same plan. Since moving in the past year and a half (twice) and now living in a new home, I am creating a plan that best meets my current needs. I try (notice the word "try") to deep clean my home twice a year. I will allow myself four weeks to completely move throughout my home. Every cupboard, drawer, closet, and corner is touched. It is more than cleaning. It is tossing, organizing and just plain tackling those hidden spots which have been ignored all winter (or maybe for the past nine months). My first stop is the kitchen. Since I will be busy with other ministry work over the next couple of weeks, I will allow myself two weeks to complete. I go through every cupboard. This is the time to throw out those items which have been unused for the past year, take inventory of spices and seasonings and reorganize my recipes and cookbooks. I will spend only thirty minutes each day "Spring Cleaning".

There is still all the normal housework to be done and I find if I don't tackle it all at once I get more accomplished. Here is my super simple menu for this week:

Monday: Roast Beef & Gravy(Crock pot) potatoes and steamed veggies

Tuesday: Burritos

Wednesday: Chicken packets and salad

Thursday: Spaghetti, salad and garlic bread

Friday: Kid's Night Out!

Saturday: Barbecue Beef Sandwiches

For more great menus go to Organized Junkie

A blog note

Dear One and Many,

Wish I could just drop in for a face-to-face visit. I can see us now, sitting outside on a deck watching the sun sink over those western hilltops and taking in all the beauty.
My heart is focusing on that scene, and I cling to the hope and peace of God I sense whenever I'm with you.
Thank you for your prayers! They mean more than words can say!

Love,

Your Friend

A son's words to his father

This morning I read John Piper's beautiful and moving journal entry narrating his father, William S. H. Piper's death giving God glory for his father's life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Piper family.

As a parent I am so moved by these words spoken from a son,

"Thank you, Daddy. Thank you for 61 years of faithfulness to me. I am simply looking into his face now. Thank you. You were a good Father. You never put me down. Discipline, yes. Spankings, yes. But you never scorned me. You never treated me with contempt. You never spoke of my future with hopelessness in your voice. You believed God’s hand was on me. You approved of my ministry. You prayed for me. Every day. That may be the biggest change in these new days: Daddy is no longer praying for me."

I did not know this man in life, but in death his life has impacted mine to press on and finish the race that is set before me that the Gospel will be revealed in my own life and many will come to know our Savior.

Wordless Wednesday - Ice

S.O.A.P.

Yesterday my Life Journal entry was from

Mark 12:44:

"For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on."

These were the words Jesus spoke of the poor widow woman after she has placed all that she had in the offering. She gave out of her poverty, her whole livelihood. She did not put any value or trust on what she had.

I wonder how often I come to the Lord willing to give of my life out of abundance? Jesus compared her gift as greater than all those who gave before her in total. Jesus could see her heart.

When I come to the Lord in my poverty, my lack, my need, my insufficiency and insecurities, I have come offering everything I really am. It doesn't matter what it looks like to others. God sees my heart. I have given Him the whole of my life.

Just in case you were wondering....

Just in case you were wondering and to keep me very humble, this afternoon I found myself very tired. I had trouble sleeping last night and I am still fighting a cold. This morning I posted my menu plan for the week. I cooked several pounds of boneless chicken breasts today for several meals this week and to freeze for future dishes. At about 4pm I talked with my husband. He came home unexpectedly for a short time and then headed back to the office deciding to pick up a sandwich on the way. So I did what every other well organized woman would do. I asked the kids what they wanted from McDonalds, got into my car, drove up to the black box, ordered 3 chicken bacon ranch salads for us girls and 3 chicken meals for the boys. I brought it home and we enjoyed a carpet picnic on the family room floor. I picked up all the trash and was thankful that although I posted my well intended plans today and just in case someone saw me driving away from McDonalds, when mom doesn't feel well the plan can change!

Menu Plan Monday

I was asked recently about menu plans and the benefit they provide for my family. Besides the obvious, knowing ahead of time what I am going to cook just seems to make my week go a little smoother, I have also found many other blessings and a much greater purpose for doing this.

Several years ago my husband and I decided to capitalize on this time we spend together at the table. We realized that gathering together for a meal was our opportunity to not only feed our children's physical body, but also one of the few times in the day that we could gather together as a family and talk about our spiritual bodies. We also realized that we are sitting next to or across from one another and it was our opportunity to teach them how to serve, show kindness and compassion towards one another. We can sense when someone has had a difficult day and needs encouragement from those who love them most.
My plans and preparations for our family meal time have taken on a high and holy purpose. We always try and celebrate one another! When someone has had a difficult day, this is the place where they can receive restoration. Several years back some of the networks ran a "family table" advertisement. Even the world recognizes the reality of how seldom families were gathering at the table. As I shared a few weeks ago, the plan serves me. We don't always eat together and life sometimes totally interrupts my well intended plans. But our goal is to come to the table as often as we can.
Here is what I have planned to serve my family this week:

Monday: Chicken in Alfredo sauce with penne pasta Salad and bread
Tuesday: Tacos with rice and beans
Wednesday: Stove top Pot Roast with vegetables and rice
Thursday: Chiken Tetrazzini Salad and rolls
Friday: Southwestern Chili and Corn Bread
Saturday: Chicken Quesadillas with leftover chili

For more great menus go to I'm an Organizing Junkie

Walking with God

" A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." Proverbs 16:9

I have been asking myself lately how much of my life is directed by God and how much do I direct in my own ways, thinking that I have let God direct my steps (or plans)? Or do my own plans, cares and concerns crowd out God's ability to speak to me?

Noah didn't just decide one day that it would be a good idea to build a boat and then, after he was finished, ask God to do something really great with it. NO! Gen. 6:9 says, .. "Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God."

Abraham didn't one day decide to take his wife and wander around the desert, and then ask God to lead him somewhere. NO! It says in Gen. 12:2, The LORD had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you." And God promised, "I will bless you."

Moses didn't just decide one day to go back to Egypt and ask Pharaoh to release the Hebrew people in order for them to leave all at once. NO! Moses was quietly minding his own flock as God had instructed him to do, when suddenly the Lord spoke to him from the middle of a burning bush telling him to go. Moses followed God's plan and the Lord blessed everything he did.

There is so much here I can learn from these three friends in scripture. Oh, to be as Noah found blameless in the sight of God and walking with him. Or, to be as Abraham willing to pick up and go as God directs and believe what He has promised. Or, to be Moses and actually hear and see God speak to me while I am tending to the business of the day. All three were going about their day walking with God.

God speak to me! Show me your ways in the midst of preparing meals, kissing chubby cheeks, changing diapers, listening to a teenager, making brownies, scrubbing toilets, and grocery shopping. I want to be found walking with you!

Out of Commission

My computer is out of commission. I am using my husband's laptop to check emails and the other 100 places that I use the Internet for. Ok, maybe that is a bit of an exaggeration but today was my 2nd day without typing on a keyboard and I stopped counting the times that the kids and I thought of going to the computer to check on something. It has brought about the realization of how much I depend on this wonderful convenience and feels a great deal like when the car breaks down and you are left without transportation for a few days.

Pray for a speedy recovery!

Menu Plan Monday

What a weekend we have had! Ice storms, stomach flu, runny noses, coughing, more snow to shovel, fevers, several power outages and did I mention lots of coughing, occasional moans from the two adults, several games of Clue and Sorry and lots of this was accomplished.

With all that, I think secretly aside from not feeling well, we all wish we could stay in this place a little longer. The kids wanted the power to stay off so that we could continue to play and read by oil lamp and candles. The days are long and uninterrupted by schedules and we are enjoying being together.

Amazingly, it is Monday and I have a plan for the week of what to prepare for my family. Last week, I was planning to make the Swiss Chicken Bake and I had mistakenly taken out a bag of chicken wings from the freezer instead of chicken breasts, so we had barbeque wings. So, I am going to try the recipe this week.

Monday: Swiss Chicken Bake and salad

Tuesday edited: We have been invited out yippee!
Tacos will have to wait :)

Wednesday Potato Soup with baked bread

Thursday Chuck Roast, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Veggies

Friday Pizza Night

Saturday Fettuccini Alfredo with Chicken, garlic bread and salad

Sunday Chili and Corn Bread


For more great menu plans go to Organized Junkie

Mommy....will you please read to me?

It's my turn now. I have a head cold. All day I have felt achy and kept the box of Kleenex close by. My little guy seems to be feeling a little better.

All week I have wanted to write a post for this. Some of my favorite words are "Mommy...will you please read to me?" My older three kids are very independent readers. I remember when my oldest daughter was a toddler lying on my bed with a stack of books reading together for what seemed liked hours. We read many of the Golden Books over and over that by the time she was three she had most of them completely memorized. She is now fifteen years old and I still find her most nights with the light in her room peeking into the hallway as she is curled up in her bed with a book.
Her goal over the next month is to finish reading For Young Women Only by Shaunti Feldhahn. and Passion and Purity by Elizabeth Elliot. She is also reading this book for a school project.
My eleven year old daughter is currently reading Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery. I would like to see her finish the book in the next month. A couple nights a week we will lay down on her bed and she will read to me.
My ten year old son has always enjoyed reading. He is thoroughly enjoying these books at school and his goal is to finish Pilgrim's Progress by Paul Bunyan at home.
When each of my children have been in Kindergarten I have taken the school year and read all of the classics in the curriculum Five in a Row. I homeschooled my two girls in Kindergarten and used this as part of our curriculum.
My six year old son, who is in Kindergarten this year has been enjoying our journey through these wonderful classics. We read one book for five days in a row. Over the next four weeks I hope to read these favorites with him. The Story about Ping, Make Way for Ducklings, A New Coat for Anna, Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, and Katy and the Big Snow . Over the years I have collected many of these classics for my own library of children's literature.

I try and spend fifteen minutes everyday reading board books with my two year old. I have noticed he is slowly sitting for longer periods of times. I also have a Before Five in a Row curriculum which has classics for younger children. I am going to read Caps for Sale over the next several weeks in addition to the board books about God, animals, and shapes. Each day I will read as much of the book as he will sit for. I have noticed that these books are so well written that my kids want to stay and hear the whole story. Another favorite classic that I read to him at nap time is Goodnight Moon. This has been a favorite for all.

These are my goals for each of my individual children in addition to their Bible reading using the youth and children's Life Journal.

Now, for our family read aloud. My husband reads to the kids one or two nights during the week. He will have devotions right before dinner with the kids and than immediately after dinner they will gather together with pillows spread out over the floor and he will read to them. He is currently in the middle of reading Mystery of the Island Jungle by Lee Roddy. This was an old book we have had on our shelf for many years. It is an adventurous book in which a young boy learns important truths about depending on God and facing tough times instead of running from them. Their goal is to finish the book over the next four weeks.

Thank you Jennifer for hosting this. Writing my goals down will help me to stick with our plan. For more great ideas in reading to your children go to Snapshot.

Introducing his "new" look

For those of you who asked, Here he is with his first big boy hair cut and "no" I don't have any regrets. As much as I loved his curls, his long hair was constantly in his eyes. He sat in the chair so sweetly. And "no" I didn't cry and "yes" I saved several curls.

The poor guy has not felt good the last three days. He saw the doctor today and has ear infections in both ears. No wonder he hasn't slept well for two nights (and neither has mom) He fell asleep tonight around six thirty and woke up about an hour ago. I am getting ready to put him back to bed. I pray he sleeps tonight. I have the "newborn" baby fog and I am ready for a full night's sleep.

Wordless Wednesday - We finally did it!

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In "Other" Words

"Those who read fast reap no more advantage than a bee would by only skimming over the surface of the flower, instead of waiting to penetrate into it, and extract its sweets."
~ Madame Jeanne Guyon ~

I have truly selected someone else's words today which so beautifully describe what I hope someday may depict my own life when it comes to the word of God. I often struggle for the right words to say or write. I know them in my heart, I have experienced it in my life, but it just doesn't seem to come out as I would hope. But I do hear and feel the music and will continue to sing the song. This most thought provoking quote was at the end of our bible study this morning for our Tuesday morning study at church. I have been meditating on it all week.

"There is a difference between memorizing Scripture and thinking biblically. There's a difference between knowing the words and experiencing their meaning. There is a difference between having sentences embedded in your head and having their impact embedded in your heart. There is a difference between "doing Christianity" and being a Christian. You can memorize all of the words, but if you've forgotten the music you still won't be able to sing the song." Tim Hansel

For more In "Other" Words go to Laurel Wreath

Menu Plan Monday

Here is my menu plan for this week. I've always liked having a plan, but I do not serve the plan, but the plan should always serve me. A menu plan always makes my weeks go much smoother. Last week, many of the meals I had planned worked well with my busy schedule. I had three slow-cooker meals that I was able to prepare in the morning and therefore my entire afternoon and evening was free to take care of other things and still have time to sit down at the table as a family and enjoy the fellowship of one another. This week I have a short menu plan since I am not sure yet what our weekend plans will be. Note: Last Friday I did not prepare my enchiladas since my husband went out of town, so since I already have the ingredients I am serving them this week. And normally, Tuesday is Mexican Night, but since I have a busy day on Tuesday, I am serving the enchiladas with home made refried beans tonight. shhh...my husband will be so happy!!

Monday: Enchiladas with rice and Beans

Tuesday: Swiss Chicken Bake and salad
(simple new recipe from An ordinary mom)

Wednesday: Breaded Shrimp, potatoes and cream corn

Thursday: Beef Stroganoff over rice and steamed veggies


For more great Menu's and new recipe ideas go to Organized Junkie

Word Picture

Jennifer at Snapshot had posted this and I thought I would try it. Random words from a month of blogging! I was pleased to see God, heart, journal, life, and love as some of the larger words. I don't know if those words found most in your blog come out larger or if it is all random? Anyhow, I love words and this is definitely a very cool word picture! Go to Snapshirts.com to make your own.

Thank You Friends!

A friend encouraged me to start this blog. I have always enjoyed putting my thoughts on paper and after reading other blogs for several months I certainly could see it would be something I would enjoy doing. Several years ago, I wrote articles for a homeschooling support group on various topics. That short assignment brought me a great deal of enjoyment and I knew there was more I was to do.

I started off writing posts based on the book, Feminine Appeal by Carolyn Mahaney, which I was reading along with several other ladies who no longer lived near me. Once we finished the book together I never expected to continue to have anything to post. But I continued through the holidays writing thoughts about Thanksgiving and Christmas and found a great deal of enjoyment in writing and reading other blogs.

Several friends are faithful readers and have encouraged me greatly! I know in real-life several other wonderful women who write blogs and I find those blogs as some of my absolute favorites, since I know who they are. I have two friends who inspire and encourage me with their emails and comments to go on even though they do not write their own blog.

With all that said, one of the things I did not expect in writing this blog was to have any one reading it beyond maybe a few people I told about it. I have been amazed by those who 1)either have personally told me they read this little itty bitty corner of my world. 2) perfect strangers who read here and 3) blogs which I have come to enjoy and read several times a week myself.

Like everything in my life I hope to always glorify God with this little itty bitty corner of my world. Today I received an email from a long time friend who has been reading and asked if I would write more about being a Godly woman, wife, mom, and if I would speak of some of the demands of being a Pastor's wife. I was humbled by her request, because it is something I would have looked to her for in recent years. I emailed her back and said, "I would try."

Today I wanted to say thank you to some of my new friends in this blogging world who have also greatly encouraged me by their kind words and comments. Today, Jennifer at Snapshot listed me as a new read for her. Thank you Jennifer! Most of you leave wonderful comments, but Susanne at Living to tell the Story is one of the most gracious commenter I have seen. If you think you have written something really bad or just plain boring, she will find something good in it. Her blog is a very warm and friendly place. Thank you Susanne! Kelly at A Spacious Place and Kim at Lifesong are two of the first blogs I began visiting regularly and I can't even remember how I came across them. They both are extremely inspirational. They have since received new blog designs which are beautiful. Thank you Kelly and Kim! Two of my newest reads have been Cyndi at One Day More and Deidre at For Such A Time As This. Cyndi has blessed me with her posts and her comments. I only wish I could sit down and have coffee with her. I sense we could talk for hours. Deidre has written some beautiful and very well written posts. Today she shares part II of a beautiful post titled: Not My Plan. Please go read this most beautiful post on God's sovereign and loving hand in her life. Her blog is beautiful!

I would love to hear from those who read and don't regularly comment. Are there things that could be shared on this blog or by others that may encourage you? If so, would you share as my friend has. Thank you!

What does the cross show us?

I read The Hiding Place when I was very young. Later on, I read Tramp for the Lord and I have treasured This Day is the Lord's. Here are a few of my favorite quotes from Corrie Ten Boom.

"What does the cross show us? What do we see when our eyes are opened? We see that our sins are laid on Jesus, and that His righteousness is placed on us. Jesus had legions of angels available, which could have been an overwhelming defense. Nobody could have done Him any harm without His allowing it, but He did not use His defense. Through His obedience, He made His defense available to us."

And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:8

"The blood of Jesus Christ has great power! There is perhaps not a phrase in the Bible that is so full of secret truths as "the blood of Jesus." It is the secret of His Incarnation, when Jesus took our flesh and blood; the secret of His obedience unto death, when He gave His life at the Cross of Calvary; the secret of His love that went beyond all understanding when He bought us with His blood; the secret of the enemy and the secret of our eternal salvation."

Wordless Wednesday - My Guys

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Happy Valentines Day!

In Other Words

We are urgent about the body; He is about the soul. We call for present comforts; He considers our everlasting rest. And therefore when He sends not the very things we ask, He hears us by sending greater than we can
ask or think. Richard Cecil

I picture a stack of papers piled at the corner of my desk a bit tattered and yellowed from their stay, although unattractive by nature they represent the many unanswered prayers through the years. There have been so many
things I have declared that "I needed or desired" and pleaded with the Lord to allow these events or things in my life. Several things come to my mind, but one stands out. A few years ago my oldest daughter had participated in a drama performance group through the school she was attending at the time. There was a selection process for the following year in which several students were selected to go on and work with a group which would perform in area schools and so on. Everything in the natural mind would have expected my daughter to be selected, but God did not bring what we asked. He did not answer my prayers for my daughter. Instead the words, "He hears us by sending greater than we can ask or think" were lived out before me in the next few months. In the moment, I did not understand why. I prayed with my daughter as she cried and felt a bit betrayed not by God, but by the director and leader of this group. In her natural mind she had worked hard and in every way should have been selected. But neither of us knew what God's plans were at the moment.

Over the next couple of months as the Lord began to open the door for our move across the country we began to see God's gracious and loving hand in our lives. My husband, my daughter, and I all knew had she been selected for this group our hearts may not have been open to His plans. Even my daughter proclaimed God's goodness in her life allowing her heart to be open to the change that was approaching. At a time in a young person's life when most would agree that a major move would be detrimental, she welcomed God's plan.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Isaiah 55:8-9

Again, the image of several pieces of paper stacked at the corner of my desk and what they represent, reminds me of God's loving and sovereign hand in my own life. There are a few new pieces of paper at the top of the stack. There are still many that have been there for years. At times, I feel the need to deal with these on my own, but than I remember the words of Psalm 77:11-19

I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God? You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples.

You with your arm redeemed your people, the children of Jacob and Joseph. When the waters saw you, O God, when the waters saw you, they were afraid; indeed, the deep trembled. The clouds poured out water; the skies gave forth thunder; your arrows flashed on every side. The crash of your thunder was in the whirlwind; your lightnings lighted up the world; the earth trembled and shook. Your way was through the sea, your path through the great waters; yet your footprints were unseen.

I desire God's footprints throughout my life, those unseen places which only He knows what is needed and what will bring about His eternal plans for my life.

But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. Psalm 33:11

For more "In Other Words" visit Joy in the Morning

Menu Plan Monday

This is my first Menu Plan Monday. Like most of you I find that if I don't plan for the week, I end up scrambling from day to day trying to figure out what to serve my family.
For several years I have used a 30 day menu plan with approximately 20 meals that I try and rotate. Every month I try and add two to three new recipes and remove any that weren't working for us. Planning ahead also forces me to shop in advance and have extra ingredients on hand for unexpected visitors etc. Ideally, I like to shop only once a month for all my staple items for my planned meals, and then shop once a week for the fresh ingredients. This greatly reduces my grocery bill when I stick with this plan. I am able to better take advantage of sale items and other specials when I have a plan.
I have also tried to have a cooking day once a month in which I will cook several pounds of boneless chicken and freeze in 2 to 3 cup portions for several dishes. I also have a few casseroles that freeze nicely.
The family meal time is one of the most important times of our day during the week. I try and create an atmosphere in which we truly "come to the table". Tuesday is usually our Mexican theme night. Friday nights we sometimes have carpet picnics depending on what I am serving. Occasionally, we have "table talks", play a simple game while eating or a family favorite is having each child share about their day. And now that our children are getting older we have added devotions right before the meal. Our two year old is the only one I serve ahead of time so that he remains quiet while daddy is reading and sharing. Some evenings everything goes nicely as planned and other times it is chaotic. Perfection is not the goal in my planning, but to create an environment in which my children can experience the love of family as well as receive both spiritual and physical nourishment.
Here is what I hope to serve my family this week all of which are part of my 30 day plan.


Monday: Spaghetti with meatballs, Salad and garlic bread

Tuesday: Taco Soup, Chips and salsa

Wednesday: Chicken Packets, corn and red potatoes

Thursday: Roast Beef and Gravy and Steamed Veggies

Friday: Enchiladas with rice and beans

Saturday: Super simple Beef Stew with homemade biscuits

Sunday: Lasagna with salad and cheese bread

For more menus and great recipe ideas go to Organizing Junkie

I am From

When I read Kelly's and Heth's "I am From", I knew I wanted to do this little writing exercise myself. I wrote mine several weeks ago and just let it sit for awhile. It is amazing how many things come to your memory when you right things down. I often think of the heritage I want to leave my children in the written word. I want them to read things that I have written, my love of God and His word, my love for their daddy, and my love for each of them. I want them to hear my struggles, the pain, the disappointments, and my faith. I hope that in each of my journals and even this little blog they discover my faith in Jesus Christ.

I am from...

I am from black tops and side walks, from Disneyland to Knott's Berry Farm.

I am from the small stucco house at the end of a cul-de-sac, the smell of chlorine, block wall fences and Ford trucks.

I am from green grass throughout the year, sandy beaches, palm trees, Santa Ana winds and snow capped mountains.

I am from Christmas Eve with Grandma and Grandpa, Norwegian Lefse and homemade cinnamon rolls, from Ron and Blanche and a man named Jim.

I am from bus rides down Brookhurst street straight to Huntington Beach and summer visits with my aunt and uncle, their eight kids, barbeque's in the backyard, kick the can and hide-n-seek.

From Santa Claus and and the little song, "My mother said if I'd be good, she send me to the store"

I am from Jesus becoming Savior, a small church on the corner and Calvary Chapel concerts.

I am from the sunshine state, an accountant, beautiful wood work, and simple family meals around the kitchen table.

From the love of antiques, all things old, doll collections, cowboy boots and western wear, Johnny Cash and Engelbert Humperdinck, Mano's Pizza, Squirt and RC Cola.

I am from the stories of growing up in Wyoming, or the small town of Keokuk, and the Grandma retired in Santa Monica who raised five boys by herself.

The beauty in this little exercise is that no matter where "I am from", I am most importantly a daughter of the Most High God.

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. Luke 21:33

Home is where your heart is!

Before I begin my actual post for today I have something to say about my choice of Wordless Wednesday posts. It is not my intention to torture anyone with the wonders of summer. (if you are wondering what this is about go read the comments from her, her, and her and probably more!) I promise when we are sitting outside fanning our faces with sweat dripping down our backs, I will post the snow pictures I am currently taking. Until then, this week's picture was taken in my parents backyard at what I would call my childhood home and I am mourning just a bit.
Now for the actual post I had planned for today. I moved to 9721 Kennelly Lane right before the 4th grade and lived there until I was married. My family has now lived in this house for over 35 years and they are getting ready to put it on the market. My parents have already purchased a new home in another state and are in the final stages of their move.

Don't misunderstand me I am very happy for them. God has truly provided for their desire at this season of life. But I am extremely sentimental over certain things and this is one of them. I know it is just a house, but it is filled with so many memories. The address, phone number, and even a few neighbors have remained the same for 35 years. This past summer after spending nearly two weeks visitng and knowing this was probably my last time at the house, I found myself nearly out of breath trying to keep myself from breaking down and weeping upon leaving. I had awoke early the morning of our departure and spent some time with the Lord. I walked through the rooms quietly in the stillness of the morning while everyone else slept. Growing up the house was about 1400 sqaure feet, and later my parents added an additional 500.
Looking at the tiny room in the middle of the hallway which once graced yellow and lime green walls, the bathroom in which I first learned about make-up and other girly things, the place on the floor where I would lay for what seemed like hours talking on the phone to friends because the phone was connected to the wall all just seemed to take place moments before. The first time my husband came to the door, the place he asked my dad if he could marry me, the mark on the steps where we once sat and talked and even the place in front where we always parked our car when visiting all were etched in my mind. Even my children have spent many days and years running through Grandma's house, watching their favorite movie in what she called the "sanctuary", eating at the counter, taking baths in their deep kitchen sink, and of course summertime literally living in their swimming pool, except for eating and sleeping.
I realize as I boarded the plane later that morning to come home, that I hold the memories, not the house. The memories will go where I go and are locked in my heart. After all, home is truly where my heart is. I will miss going to 9721, but there are new memories to be made at their new home and for this I am very thankful!

yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. James 4:14

Wordless Wednesday x 2

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In Other Words

"I long to worship Jesus with the heart of a child, in a state of pure and true adoration. Yet so many things of the world cloud my thoughts and pull on my heart until it's no longer just a girl in the arms of the Father"
~ Darlene Schacht ~
"The Mom Complex"

When all of my children were babies there was a point in their growth that the safety of my arms securely wrapped around them could no longer keep them in my grasp. There was a point in which the noises in the room would slowly pull at their senses away from my loving touch and caress. They wanted to stay curled up against me, but the distractions were great and would slowly overtake them.
Then suddenly, without warning my babies would be back in my arms. And often if someone or something tried to remove them they would refuse. They were firmly fixed in place or steadfast about their position.
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast,because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3

I long to worship with pure adoration like the heart of a child. But I am more like one of my own babies when I am standing before Him worshiping. My eyes are closed, my heart and mind are purely focused on Him. But then, slowly I open my eyes and begin to look away, notice those around me, my mind begins to wander, and before I know it I am as far away from the security of His presence without ever leaving the room.

In Matthew 18:3. Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."

Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, but Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 19:13-14

These verses reminds me of the value Jesus placed on the little children. It is their heart and faith that we are instructed to become like. It is pure, simple and uncomplicated

For more In Other Words visit here

I know I am not alone

I have felt a bit weepy this past week. It is both a physical weariness and a heaviness I have on my heart over many things. Some of the heaviness is for others and what they are facing and the rest is my mother's heart.
The past week or so I have felt the mental, emotional, and spiritual demands of being a mom. The very thought of being someones "mom" has brought me to tears. The love that these children give me in spite of who I am, or what I have done, or what I continue to do and say is so remarkable. A child's love is so pure, genuine, forgiving, and perfectly wonderful. They love their mamas and trust them immeasurably. I believe God created us this way.
Learning to trust God with these lives He has so lovingly entrusted to me is one of the hardest things I have had to do.

I know I am not alone. We all dream of our children growing up happy, successful, beautiful, loving and as God honoring and fearing adults.
I know I am not alone. We all start out in this mothering role with hopes and dreams of our little guys doing well in school, playing sports, revealing wonderful talents and gifts right from the start.
I know I am not alone. I have been through the ballet classes, gymnastics meets, baseball games, and auditions to see all the parading mommies hoping their special child will be the "One". The "one" who shines above the rest, who is selected as the best, or who remains first through the test.

But what do we do as moms when our little "one" is not the best or doesn't' stand out among the rest? Or maybe doesn't even come close? How do we pray? As a mom in the midst of it, it is sometimes difficult to see that God's plans are always the best. We pray the scripture that says, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." But we hurt as our child hurts. We cry as our child crys or walks away after being told they aren't the best. We hold on to the promises God has given to us as moms and for our children.

edited: (I removed my daughter's photo)

My eleven year old daughter, Kelsey, said to me the other day as we were discussing some of the difficulty she was having with her school work, "why didn't God give me better brains?" I have to tell you that at that very moment I did not have an answer. In my weariness, I could not bring up any great spiritual wisdom from anywhere within me. As she began to cry and say, "mom, I have struggled in 1st grade, 2nd grade, 3rd grade..and so on", I began to weep with her. I wanted and still do so badly to fix this. I want to do something. I wanted to take away the memory of the struggle and replace it with beautiful memories of fun and success. But I can't. My husband and I have prayed for this little girl, looked at everything prayerfully in her little life, we have sought the extra academic help and so on. But as a mama, it is so difficult to bear. I know I am not alone. I want God's best for my child.

As I spent yesterday afternoon cleaning and taking care of things in my home, I prayed for this girl. I prayed for wisdom. I prayed against the standards the world as set up and labeled "successful" in my daughter's life. I thanked the Lord for giving me this child (I had a difficult and scary pregnancy). I thanked the Lord that she is fearfully and wonderfully made just as God had fashioned her before the foundations of the earth. I recalled and prayed many of the promises he has given me for her and through some of the challenges we have already faced and His faithfulness in it all.

And than this morning in my in-box was the most beautiful words of encouragement from the only person who I had mentioned this little conversation to. A gentle and wonderful reminder from the Lord. Here is some of what she said in part as she has explained her own daughter's struggles in school. I have to tell you before you read this that I know her daughter and she is truly a remarkable, beautiful, and extremely talented young woman of God.

I have had so many talks with her over the years to help her see that the brains aren't what God wanted her to excel at- that it could have very well gotten in the way of His plans if she was straight A and locked into that. She has a boldness and a love to share her faith that has born fruit in junior high, high school, college, Australia, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, and now Kenya. And school was hard for her. Sunday she will sing of her Lord in front of maybe 6,000 people. Not because she did well in school. God has great plans for Kelsey. She is fearfully and WONDERFULLY made to bring glory to God. Keep cheering her on, Momma. You were chosen to be her mommy and so get out your pom-poms and go at it!

Words cannot express my appreciation to this dear friend. She may never understand what "new" life her words gave to this weary mom. A mom who wants only what God has planned for her little girl. But I think she does know for she has prayed and watched God do this for not just one girl, but two, and one more who is still on her way. And of course I won't forget the three sons, one son-in-law, one daughter-in-law and six (almost seven) grandkids.

So I am off to make poms poms in my heart and cheer this girl to the finish.

I have never won anything, but I rarely if ever enter contests or other things like this. But this jewelry is so cute and I know someone who would love this necklace so I thought I would join in on the contest fun at 5Minutes4Mom.

Love and Acceptance

Two words that I have struggled to grasp for myself: love and acceptance. For many reasons, some of which the Lord has showed me through the years and others that I am still seeking, learning and trying to understand.
Some people are so comfortable in the presence of others. When they visit your home they don't need to ring the doorbell. They come through the back door. They don't notice if your house is a mess. They will just step over, push aside, or join in on whatever is going on.
How do they do it? It is simply acceptance. The kind of love and acceptance that doesn't come to see your stuff, but to see you.
These people leave behind their expectations of how others should be and what they should do. To them, every person is a buried treasure to be discovered and enjoyed. Differences, evaluations, judgements and makeovers are not their job. Loving acceptance is.
When such a person takes me into her heart, it is certain that she cannot stay long out of mine.

Wordless Wednesday x 2

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