Pardon me for my absence...

It was brought to my attention that I have neglected my blog as of late. I apologize for my absence and promise to return in the very near future. There are some thoughts/ideas percolating in this brain of mine that I wish to share with you dear readers. (if there are any of you left)


Honestly, I truly miss blogging. I miss the things that God just dropped into my heart to share with the world. I promise to do my best at being more faithful to you my dear readers. :)


Adios for now..

Wordless Wednesday ~ Geocaching...our new hobby!

For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

Thursday Thankfulness ~ Low maintenance girl...

Yep, today, I am thankful that it doesn't take me long to get ready. After sleeping on the couch last night (the hubs had a tummy thing going on and I don't want it!) I woke up less than rested. Needless to say, my morning moved slow. Both the girls have awards assemblies today...one at 9 and one at 1:30. Well, at about 7:20 this morning, I realized that I needed to shower and get dressed before taking the girls to school...ha!

Well, I am happy to report that I am sitting here showered, hair (almost) dried, make-up on, and fully dressed for the day...at normal morning devotional time. Oh yeah...from start to finish, 20 minutes.

So, thanks God for making me one of those no-fuss, low maintenance girls.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Pinky and the Brain

Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Romans 12:10

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ What do we do?

This post may be a bit, um, heavy. Some may agree, some may disagree. I'm not here to sugar coat things or make everyone agree with me. I'm hear to post my thoughts and the things I feel God saying to me. So, if this post offends you, you can stop reading at any time.

We, as the church, are supposed to be different, no? Romans 12:2 says, "Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." To me, that says that our lives should look different from those of non-believers. Well, I don't know about you, but I have seen a lot of Christians' lives looking an awful lot like the rest of the world.

Let's get one thing straight, I am NOT perfect. Nor do I claim to be. I am just as messed up need as much grace as the next person, but I do know that God is working on me...piece by piece.

At one point in my life, I lived just like the world...because I was still in the world. I hadn't met Jesus yet. At a different point, after I had met Jesus, my life looked an awful lot like the world. God shook me down to my foundation and rebuilt me with Him as my center. Does that make me perfect? Heck no! Does that mean I have all the answers? Ha! No way! What it does mean is that He shows me His grace...daily. Something that I certainly could not live without.

Many of you may know that I have a burden for the youth. You see, I made some really dumb mistakes as a youth and I went through some things that no one should have to go through. And God has shown me that I can help this next generation with my testimony...my mistakes, my trials, my hardships. What hurts my heart the most is to see a student at church living one way, and then see them outside of the church and not recognize them. To see that they are living two different lives. I always tell the students I work with that if I were to go to their school, they should be the same person they are at church...and at home.

The problem I'm seeing is that young people, girls especially, are changing who they are in order to fit in. Changing the way they dress, the music they listen to, the words they speak, the things they do or don't do, and who they hang out with. "This person thinks it's OK to dress immodestly, so I think I will dress this way when I'm around them." "This person listens to this questionable music, so I will too when I'm around them." "This person says he will love me if I just have sex with him, so in order to feel that love, I will." "This person uses foul language, so I will, but only around them."

The problem with this sort of behavior/thinking is that you can't turn it off. Maybe at the beginning you can moderate what you say/do around who, but eventually, it will consume you. It's like throwing a rotten apple into a good bunch and expecting them to stay good. It will consume you...trust me on this. I've been there.

OK, so what can we do?

1) Well, I, as a parent, know that I need to teach my girls why they should be different from the world...not just that they should. Sure, for a while they might just do what I say because I'm mom and that's what they are supposed to do, but once they get to the point where they need to figure things out for themselves, they need to know the answer to the 'whys'. It's my job to make sure that foundation is there.

2) Pray! I know it sounds cliche, but prayer is powerful. There are few things more powerful than the prayer of a parent for his/her child(ren)

3) Set the example. This is a big one. Our kids, and other young people that look up to us, are watching to see if the way we live our lives matches the way we speak. Are you the same person everywhere you go? Do you read your Bible daily? Do you talk to God daily? If the answer to any of these is no, then you need to work on yourself before you can fix anyone else.

4) Don't judge. If you see that a young person has stumbled and made mistakes, don't judge them...love them. Love is what will repair the damage that has been done. God is love. Love them like He does.

Think about it...

Thursday Thankfulness ~ No major injuries!

Today I am thankful that we had a successful soccer season with NO MAJOR INJURIES!! That's kind of a big deal when you think about it. My Big Girl had a sore achilles tendon for the last few weeks, but I've seen some games where the players get seriously injured. And considering we had just enough girls to play 6 games in the tournament, I'd say we did pretty well.

So thanks God for keeping all our girls safe and injury free!

For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do. Hebrews 6:10

Wordless Wednesday ~ Soccer, Soccer, Soccer!

Before the final game

Pre-game pep talk

Here we go!

Half-time pep talk.

Super tired, second place team! All the girls played 6 full games this weekend!

My Big Girl getting her trophy! Look at that hair!

Big Girl and one of her awesome coaches!

Big Girl and one of her friends from another team. They match! LOL!

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. Genesis 50:20

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ Are you a square peg?

Many of you may know that my family relocated a little less than a year ago. At first I was upset, I mean who wouldn't be, leaving a place you called home for over 11 years. But then, I had such a peace about it. A peace I can't explain except to say that while my world was being turned upside down, I knew that everything would be OK. God had it covered.

Now, He didn't reveal to me exactly why we were coming up here to the Falls, but as we've been here almost 9 months, He has been slowly revealing to me our purpose here...and it's a multi-faceted purpose! Bear with me as I try to explain a little bit of what He's been revealing to me.

The place we left (which consequently is only 150 miles from here) is a very 'religious' town. That is in the good and the bad sense of the word. God has been (and is still continuing to) lifting the 'religious spirit' that has had a hold of that city for many years. And what is left is God...and true relationship with Him. That is an absolutely wonderful thing for my family. Here in the Falls however, God doesn't really have center stage. As a matter of fact, there are times when I wonder if He's even been cast in the play.

Sure, there are churches, but many of them are dead and still others are just there for the 'box checkers' to do their thing. I have some wonderful friends here who love the Lord with their whole hearts and He directs their life. But, other than this handful of people, God doesn't seem to be a factor in many people's lives...except maybe on Sunday. And this truly hurts my heart.

One day last week, while driving my girls to school, it hit me. This town is all about outward appearances. Does it look good? is the motivation for most things. People have ridiculously large homes with beautifully landscaped yards, but do they have love? Do they have True love from Christ? Some, yes. But I would venture to say about 75% don't.

Before you think I'm just bashing this town, let me explain. In 1 Samuel 16, God instructs Samuel to go out and find one of Jesse's sons to anoint to be the next king. God's king. Jesse had 8 sons. Samuel saw the first, Eliab, and thought for sure he was the one. But it goes on to say in verse 7, "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.' "

I don't know about you, but when God looks at my heart, I want Him to be pleased. In order to achieve this, God is showing me how to live a righteous life in the midst of a godless city. To be that proverbial square peg in a round hole. To not care if I get strange looks while doing nice things for people. To not conform to the ways of the world. To stand out...and do it proudly! I am also to teach my girls to do this. I think, thus far, we have been successful...at least with my Big Girl. I think over the course of the next few years, my Angel will pick up on this. I just pray she doesn't get sucked into the world while trying to learn the lesson.

So, basically, He wants us to learn (through life experience) how to continue to be square in this round world...and to not let the things of this world round our edges.

I'm willing...

Are you?

Think about it...

Wordless Wednesday ~ Our Crazy Weekend

Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way. Colossians 3:17 MSG

Monday Meditations ~ Evil

Sometimes I can forget that our fight is not of this world. The Word says that, "we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 6:12)

We go about our day to day lives and often don't think about this 'unseen world.' That is, until it is seen...or felt. I have always been sensitive to things in the spiritual realm...I just didn't understand it until about 5 years ago. This can be quite scary to someone who doesn't understand it...trust me.

Anyhow, yesterday, I began sensing something not right. I couldn't quite put my finger on it. This morning, that feeling is still there...but stronger. The only thing I can do right now is pray. Seek direction from God. Seek counsel from godly friends. And pray some more. Pray that whatever it is, isn't as bad as it's making me feel.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Fly by night cleaning fairy?

Those of you who don't know my Big Girl may be a little confused by this post. Those of you who do, I'm sure you completely understand...wonder what she wants? Ha! When I went in her room this morning to wake her up I thought, "Did a cleaning fairy come in over night?"

Monday Meditations ~ Rest

Sometimes life can seem so busy. Even if the things you fill your life with are 'good' things, it can at times seem overwhelming. Sometimes you just need to stop and rest...rest in His perfect peace. Rest in the fact that He loves you and He has called you to do His work on this earth.

I think we all need to sit back every once in a while and rest in Him. I know I do. Take some time today and rest in His arms. That's what I'll be doing.

Think about it...

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Wordless Wednesday ~ All I want to do right now...

Photo Credit: Abilene Reporter News

Foodie Friday ~ Easy and Tasty BBQ Sauce

I love to cook. And I love to eat. I don't like to spend a lot of money on good food. Sometimes that's not so easy. The price of food is going up . . . way up. Besides that, I don't like to eat a whole lot of processed foods or foods with a lot of preservatives in them.

Well, long story short, I decided I wanted to try my hand at making BBQ sauce. Some that I could put in a jar for future use. I found a recipe in The Everything Slow Cooker Cookbook and decided to try it. I modified it a bit and my family (and our guests) loved it!!

Worcestershire sauce and pepper not pictured . . . LOL!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups ketchup (original calls for 2 cups)

1 8oz can tomato paste (subbed for other 1/2 cup ketchup)

1/4 cup cider vinegar

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

2 Tbsp molasses

2 Tbsp prepared mustard

1 Tbsp BBQ seasoning (I think I doubled this)

1/2 tsp pepper

2 tsp liquid smoke (I doubled this too)

1 Tbsp hot sauce (I doubled this too)

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Mix well. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Reduce heat to low and cook, uncovered for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Store in covered container in fridge for up to 3 months.

I'm sure you could do this on the stove top as well, but this worked great for me. The original recipe called for 2 cups of ketchup and no tomato paste, but I've read lots about homemade sauces being a little on the thin side. I like a thicker sauce, so I experimented with it . . . it turned out great! Hope y'all enjoy! (One day I'd love to learn how to make some of the ingredients for this sauce . . . hmmmmm.)

It actually made 3 jars, but we've already used one! :)

Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.” Luke 9:23-24

Thursday Thankfulness ~ My Other Half

Yeah, I know that sounds totally cliche, but really, he does complete me. He is everything I am not. He's my perfect match.

We met through a mutual acquaintance 13 years ago. I was in a failing relationship (looking for a way out) and he was recently separated and almost divorced. When we met, I knew he was the one for me. When we talked, I could see us growing old together. I can't say that it was the same way for him, but hey, God can work with anything . . . LOL! Long story short, we dated for a year, he PCS'ed, I got out of the military and somehow we survived it all. I met his family the day before we married and he finally met mine 4 months later.

I can't say that our life together has been perfect . . . far from it, actually. What I can say is that we have been through a year long separation (thanks Uncle Sam), a couple of deployments, lots of arguing over little things, infidelity, two kids, several moves and many other things. Once we finally figured out (the hard way) that God needed to be at the center of our everything, things got better. Not easier, just better. We went through a refining period both as individuals and as a couple. We are by no means completely refined, but a heck of a lot better than we were.

So, today I thank God for this wonderful person He has blessed me with. This man that I get to wake up next to until the day death separates us. This man that I get to enjoy my life with.

Thanks God . . .

I am a lucky girl!!                                              Photo credit: Howard Timberlake

Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate. Mark 10:9

Wordless Wednesday ~ Long Overdue Recycle Run

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ Focus

The girls and I do a devotional every morning before school. I love this time that we have together to dig into God's word. And I love the thought provoking, practical subjects and questions in our current devo series. This morning's title was God Is Always There. You know, sometimes I need a reminder of the simple things.

Often times, the girls will ask questions pertaining to (or not) the subject. Somehow our conversation veered off track. No worries though! I don't mind when we have 'unplanned' conversations about things that matter. Anyhow, we managed to begin talking about the things we focus on. When you go through trials, it is very easy to focus on the 'facts' of the situation. When really and truly, we should focus on the 'Truth' of every situation . . . Jesus.

Think about it this way. There are positives and negatives in every day, every decision, every everything! That's something we cannot choose. What we can choose is how we react. What things we focus on. If I were to focus on the fact that we aren't millionaires, we have debt up to our eyeballs, I haven't bought 'new' clothes in forever, most of my furniture is old and falling apart, I'm hundreds of miles away from all of my blood relatives . . . and so on, (you get the picture) I'm fairly certain that I would walk around moping like my dog just died. Instead, I choose to focus on the blessings in my life. I know that sounds really cliche, but . . . I focus on the fact that I'm alive and healthy, I have a wonderful husband who loves me (even though I don't deserve it), I have two fabulous girls who bless me daily, we have a roof over our heads . . . in a safe neighborhood, we have been blessed with two fabulous church families, and well, I could go on for days, but I'm sure you'd be bored in about 5 minutes, so I'll stop.

You see, most often you will find me with a smile on my face. Not because I have a perfect life, but because I am content with the life I live. I don't focus on the blah of my life, but the blessings!

Think about it . . .

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. Philippians 4:12

Monday Meditations ~ Missions

You know, I'm not sure that the words 'mission trip' are found in the Bible . . . but the concept is there . . . and the command. In Matthew 28:19 Jesus says, "Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit." Sure, He was talking to the 12, but are you and I not disciples as well?

I fully and completely believe that some are called to GO and some are called to SEND. At this point in my life, I know that I am not called to go. Okay, so what then? What can I do? What can my family do to participate in this mandate?

We can pray

We can support, financially

We can send.

And we do. Currently we are supporting a dear friend of ours as she completes a call on her life in Vietnam. She will be returning home in July of this year. (Yay for mom and dad!) It has been really heavy on my heart to begin searching for a new missionary to support. But not just one that I pick. One that we all pick . . . Daddy, Big Girl, Angel and me. Someone that we can connect with. Someone that we can pray for.

I'm not sure how we are going to choose, but I know God will be faithful to show our family who He wants us to support . . . and pray for. Would you join us in praying to find our missionary family?

I will update more as God reveals to us His plan! :)

Wordless Wednesday ~ Weekend Fun!

He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. Isaiah 53:3-4

Thursday Thankfulness ~ Just a little reminder

You know, the majority of humanity is very selfish. Face it, especially in America, people are looking out for number one most of the time. So, that said, one can become very skeptical of people who do 'nice things' or who act 'too nice'. Trust me on this one. Holding the door for a stranger must cause a second head to grow . . . or at least that's how people look at me anyway.

I have become accustomed to strange looks as it is my second nature to be kind to others. That being said, it's not often that I run into others who share my 'put others before self' mentality . . . at least not out of my circle of friends. Sure my friends are great and think similarly, but strangers usually do not.

Angel and I were walking to check the mail the other day and we ran into a new 'neighbor'. (We live in an apt complex, so neighbor is a relative term) He had a French Bulldog who was just dying to check us out! We stopped chatted for a bit about both of us being new to the complex and he mentioned something about Craigslist and needing furniture. We just bought a new dining set and still had the old table . . . just waiting for someone to bless with it. I mentioned it and he said he had a few other leads to check into first, but if they fell through he would be delighted to have the table.

Long story short, he came and knocked on our door to say that he would indeed need the table after all. We helped him load it in his car and learned that he and his mother just moved here from Florida. We said our farewells, thank yous and you're welcomes and we all went about our evening.

I thought that would be the end of it.

I was wrong.

While doing something in my bedroom yesterday, I heard a knock at the door. Now we still don't know a whole lot of people here yet, so I had no idea who it could be. I got to the door in time to see this 'new neighbor' walking away with his dog. Strange. Fast forward a couple of hours and I'm taking out the trash. I open the door and I'm surprised by a plant on my front stoop with a note attached.

What I saw when I opened the door

The note

Needless to say I was quite surprised. Why? Why was I surprised by the kindness of a stranger? Should I be? God ever-so-gently reminded me that He shows His love and kindness in some of the most unexpected places . . . just like He does through me. Don't be so surprised next time someone does something unexpectedly nice for you. Accept it as God showing you His love. Sometimes we all need a tangible reminder.

Thanks God . . .

This is a pic with my real camera not my phone...aren't they gorgeous?

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

Wordless Wednesday ~ What does it mean to you?

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ Something So Small

You know, sometimes I wonder how something so small can have such a great impact on things. Take an earthquake for example. It all starts as a small shift in the plates of the earth's crust and ends with massive destruction like we've seen recently in Japan.

Or take a neck cramp (because I happen to have one right now) for example. I just happened to move the wrong way and now any time I move I am in excruciating pain. Heck, sitting hurts! But it was just a small movement!

What does the Bible have to say about 'little things'? Well, in the book of James it talks about something along these lines.

Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. James 3:4-6

Basically, to me, this says that everything we do has an effect on something! Whether we want it to or not. So, we should watch those 'little things' that don't seem to matter . . . because they do. They matter more than you know.

Think about it . . .

Wordless Wednesday ~ Sleepovers are tiring

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

Monday Meditations ~ Family

I'm pretty sure you all realize how very important family is. I know I do. I don't want to take one minute I have with them for granted.

Which is why my posts this week may be sporadic, at best. My girlies are on spring break this week and, well, I'm busy spending as much time with them as I can. I'll do my best to get a few pics of our fun up, but I hope you understand if I don't. :)

"then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:10,12

Foodie Friday ~ Sandwich Bread

I am trying to rely less and less on the grocery store for things that I can make at home. Like bread. Especially since they just shut down the Mrs. Baird's Thrift Store here in town. That is where I would buy my bread several loaves at a time and freeze them. When you can get a loaf of name brand (good) bread cheaper than the store brand, why wouldn't you? My hubby isn't happy about them closing the store because that's his favorite bread...and the only way it's gonna make it into this house...LOL!

Anyhow, I've been wanting to try to make my own sandwich bread for a while now. I've dabbled in baking rolls and specialty breads, but not every day sandwich bread...until this week that is. I pretty much followed this recipe. The Frugal Girl is a veteran baker, so I fully trust her recipes! I subbed some of the white flour with wheat flour and it turned out pretty good! I think my yeast is getting old, but I really don't want to throw out half a jar, so I'm trying to use it up. :)

We had grilled cheese sandwiches made with this bread for dinner on Tuesday and the whole family liked it! I will definitely continue to play with the recipe to find the way my family prefers. Hope you guys enjoy! And don't forget to check out The Frugal Girl...she has tons of great recipes and lots of other great tips!!

Not bad for my first try! It's tasty!

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time. 2 Timothy 1:9

Thursday Thankfulness ~ Muscle Soreness

Yeah, you read that right. I'm thankful for muscle soreness. Why? Well, I just started Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred again and well, it's kicking my butt. But all these sore muscles means that I have the ability to exercise...I can still move my body. That's nothing to laugh at! I could lose it all tomorrow.

But I haven't yet, and for that, I am thankful!

Thanks God...

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect 1 Peter 3:15

Wordless Wednesday ~ Still Tastes Good

“You will not surely die,” the serpent said to the woman. “For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” – Genesis 3:4-5

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ Mountain vs. Molehill

How many times do we make something of nothing? I know I do . . . and often. Now, I'm not really a worrier about most things, but I tend to have thoughts about worst case scenarios when it comes to my kids. Not sure if I just fear failing them or what. Either way, I hate it . . . it sucks!

Since the move, my Angel has had some behavior issues at school. I know, in the beginning, most of this was a result of the move. She's only 7 and basically had her world turned upside down . . . and her personality doesn't tolerate change very well. So I expected some issues.

Here we are over halfway through the year and she's still coming home almost every week with conduct cuts. (misbehavior) Ok, well, I can't be there the whole day, so I don't know what's going on. Is she really being as bad as it seems? Everyone else (friends, people at church) tells me she's always well behaved and is very sweet . . . basically the opposite of what I'm getting from school. What!?!? She spends 7 hours a day there . . . and I am not ok with her misbehaving there.

What to do? We've punished her, talked to her about it, tried rewards, and still nothing. Finally I got fed up and scheduled a conference, if for nothing else than to see how bad her behavior actually is. Well, that was this morning and, well, apparently I was making a mountain out of a molehill, because the teacher doesn't seem concerned at all. Um ok? Well, I guess we'll just trudge along through the rest of the year and pray for a better personality match for next year.

Such is life, right? :)


Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Monday Meditations ~ Jesus' Words

Right now, I'm rereading the book of John. I love the gospels because we get to read so many of Jesus' actual words that He spoke while here on earth. That's pretty amazing.

Anyhow, I love how simple, yet profound His words are. Today, we Christians tend to try and complicate the Gospel, when in all actuality, Jesus made it very simple. "Come follow me." "Go back home, your son will live." "This is the only work God wants from you. Believe in the One he has sent."

Some of His other messages are more wordy, but still with a simple concept: Love Me, Love God, Love others. It couldn't get much easier than that. Why do we make it so difficult? Why do we try to pray these ridiculously long prayers when He tells us exactly how to pray? Why do we try to do life on our own instead of leaning on Him?

My prayer for myself is that I get back to the basics with God . . . to try and uncomplicate my relationship with Him.

Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?” The man answered, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” “Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!” Luke 10:26-28

Thursday Thankfulness ~ Blessings

This may sound completely cliche, but I don't care. I am so incredibly blessed by all of the blessings God has chosen to bestow on me and my family. We have some amazing friends, an awesome church family and a family that is beyond anything we deserve. All these things are what I am thankful for today.

Thanks God . . .

“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

Wordless Wednesday ~ He's Not a Reader . . .

Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:25-26

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ Seriously?

Ok, so this post isn't going to be very . . . um . . . well, you be the judge.

I know that when people choose to live a public lifestyle, they are inviting all kinds of stuff into their lives. Stuff like fans, fan mail, critics, hate mail . . . just to name a few. I also know there are people out there I like to call drama magnets. You know them. The ones who, if they can't find any drama to smear all over, they will create some. Yeah, those. I'm not one of them, so I don't really understand the logic behind their thinking.

Ok, take a public figure like, say, Kate Gosselin. I'm not a huge fan of some of the choices she's made, but hey, it's her life, not mine! I began to follow her blog for a while because I thought it was interesting. I mean come on, she's got 8 kids. Nothing is normal with that many people! I also followed it because it kinda gave a glimpse into her human-ness. Sometimes we forget that others are human just like we are.

Anyway, on several of her blog posts, people would talk all kinds of trash! I mean stuff that wasn't even on topic with the blog. It's like they just wanted the whole world to know how much they hated her. Really!?! Can anyone explain this to me? No really, can you? It makes no sense to me. Me personally, when I dislike something, I tend to stay away from it. Um, duh. If something causes dis-ease within me, why would I continue to subject myself to it?

Well, there are a few blogs that I follow now that I love to read. Do I agree with everything the author posts . . . uh, no. But am I going to make sure they (and the rest of the world) know how much I loathe them and the things they write about? Um, no. I would rather stop reading all together and save myself the torture. Wouldn't you? (I'm not saying that I loathe anyone's blog or any person for that matter! It's just a 'for example' kind of thing.)

I would love to hear what you think. But know this, if there are ever any comments posted that I find derogatory (non-constructive) or disparaging in any way, I will NOT approve them. What's the point?

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7

Monday Meditations ~ Restoration

Have you ever been hurt by someone? I know that's a dumb question, because we all have. But what I mean is, has someone really hurt you . . . to the point that you aren't sure if you can ever forgive them? I know I've been on both sides of that situation. I've been the one hurt and the one doing the hurting. I'm human just like you.

But think about this . . . God has only ever been on the receiving end of that hurt. His children in Israel. You and I . . . and the rest of humanity. We've all hurt God. Any sin we commit hurts God. And yet we (humanity) continue to hurt Him . . . daily, hourly. And how does He react? Of course He is saddened, but He is also right there waiting for us to repent and come back to Him.

Man . . . I am so grateful that He is so merciful and full of Grace. I am also grateful that once He restores us, He forgets all those sins we've committed. He doesn't continue to beat us up over our past sins . . . we (and the devil) do a good enough job of that!

I was reading in Joel this morning and I love the way the Lord relayed this message to him.

. . . Return to the LORD your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish. Joel 2:13 NLT

Isn't that great!?! "Eager to relent," I just love that. How eager are we to relent when someone has sinned against us . . . and we feel the retaliation is justified?

I challenge you to try and be 'slow to get angry' and to be 'filled with unfailing love' toward those around you today.

Foodie Friday ~ Out the Window . . . just for this week

Today's post will not be about food! *gasp* I know! For all of you hanging on the edge of your seats, sit back . . . you'll have to wait until next week. :)

I am humbled to have been chosen by There's Just One Mommy for the Stylish Blogger award! Having just started regularly blogging, I'm surprised! (surprised anyone's reading and surprised to be chosen) So a big thank you goes out to Just One Mommy for this award!

There are rules that go along with winning this award. Here they are:

1. Thank and link back to the person who awarded you this award.
2. Share 7 things about yourself.
3. Award 15 recently discovered great bloggers, or less, up to you.
4. Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award!

Seven things about me:

1. I love Jesus with my entire being!

2. Although I know I don't sing well, you will often find me singing songs . . . very randomly I might add!

3. I really miss all my friends and sisters in Christ from A-Town.

4. I love shopping for baby girl stuff . . . even though I'm done having kids!

5. I have difficulty making time for myself. I know it's needed so I have to force myself!

6. I am still on a high from last night's Chris Tomlin concert!!

7. I like love live to serve others.

Now for the blogs:

1. This Thing Called Life
2. Daily Dependence
3. Deana's Daily Dose
4. Observations of a Token Yankee
5. Mothering in a Shoe
6. Nailing Jello to a Tree
7. The Toybox Years
8. Becoming Brea
9. Mommy and Me Giveaways
10. Kinship Adptions

Unfortunately, that's all I've got right now. I haven't had a whole lot of extra time lately to search for new blogs.

Thanks again to There's Only One Mommy!

Jesus replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 22:37-39

Thursday Thankfulness ~ A Faithful God

Today I am thankful for a God who is faithful to His promises. When we come to Him with a pure heart and a desire for more of Him, He is always faithful to give us what we can handle. As much as we sacrifice to receive from Him is how much He will give to us.

Our youth ministry had an amazing night of worship last night. Even though the enemy tried to throw some wrenches into things, God prevailed and the service was incredible.

Thanks God . . .

Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness. Proverbs 14:22

Wordless Wednesday ~ Prepared for Battle

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ Stressed Birds?

Take a look at the birds in this photo. Do they look stressed to you? Well, they don't look stressed to me. Can a bird even be stressed? (not sure, but I don't think so)


So why do we stress?


In Matthew 6:25-27 Jesus tells us . . .

"That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?"

Think about that for a minute . . . really think about it. He's telling us that we don't need to worry about what we are going to eat or what we will wear. He's telling us that we are valuable to Him. We take care of the things/people that are valuable to us . . . how much more will God take care of those things/people that are valuable to Him.


Think about it . . .

Monday Meditations ~ Biblical Prophecies

I just finished the book of Daniel. And I must say . . . wow! First Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel and now this . . . I'm so completely blown away. You see, God took these men of faith on journeys that you and I could probably never imagine. He gave them visions of the future . . . the future that is now our present. (or at the very least, our not so distant future)

I don't know why I'm so surprised to see all of these things coming to pass, after all, this is GOD we are talking about here. Reading all of these books by the major prophets just makes me even more eager and hungry to read the things that God revealed to John . . . the book of Revelation.

There are so many things in these books of prophecy that are almost exactly word for word the same as in Revelation. I just hope that more people begin to see the signs as they are happening instead of after . . . when it's too late. Besides, that's why God showed these men . . . for mankind to turn and repent before it is too late . . . before He has to pour out His wrath on this sin-filled world.

Think about it . . .

Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. Proverbs 17:9

Foodie Friday ~ Eating Out

We used to be that family that practically lived at McDonalds. I mean, we ate there so much that my girls' toybox was literally overflowing with Happy Meal toys. Now, however, not so much. I'm not sure why we stopped eating fast food or even at sit down restaurants so frequently, but you won't hear me complaining.

For one thing, our budget is saying a big ole, THANK YOU! For another, my waistline (while not shrinking as much as I'd like) says thanks too! But most of all, my heart says thanks.

Not my actual beating-in-my-chest heart, but my other heart. Sitting around the dinner table with my family every almost every night has done so much for our family. It has brought us closer to one another and to God. I couldn't ask for more . . . except for maybe a personal chef to do the cooking once in a while. Ha!

Besides the heart healing, it eases my mind that I know what is going into our food . . . because I put it there. We haven't quite gotten to the point that I make all of our breads and other miscellaneous ingredients, but we are slowly moving to that point. (Maybe I'll look into doing some container gardening this summer)

How about you? How often do you and your families eat out? Is that something that you'd rather do more or less of? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:35,37

Thursday Thankfulness ~ Spiritual Family

I have a pretty fantastic family. My Mom is one of my best friends ever! She and I had a pretty good relationship growing up even, and for that I am grateful. I have some awesome siblings, too! I know that any of them would do just about anything for me and my family. (and I the same for them) This list could continue on forever, because like I said, I have a fantastic family.

I'm sure you've heard the saying, "Blood is thicker than water," right? In most cases I 100% agree with this. But you have to stop and think. What about those 'non-conventional' families out there that don't have children born from their own bodies? Do those parents love their children less just because they didn't birth them? Absolutely NOT!! I have several friends (and even family) who are/were foster/adoptive parents. And I know for a fact that they adore their children as much as I adore mine. They would go to the same extremes that I would to protect their children.

Now, that being said, what about our spiritual family? Is that not the same kind of situation as an adoptive parent/child/sibling situation? Are we not adopted into God's family when we make Jesus Lord of our lives? Yes. So, that makes all believers, you and I, brothers and sisters . . . by adoption.

Ok, so we have a pretty huge family . . . LOL! Do I love my natural family more than my brothers and sisters in Christ? I don't know, I can't really answer that. There have been some situations in my life where my biological family was right there by my side all the way until the end. There have been some situations where my spiritual family has been right there. God has given me these 2 fantastic families and I am so grateful for them both!

At this point in my life, I am not physically close to my natural family. I live about 700 miles away from them and I miss them more than I can even describe. I am so incredibly grateful that God has sent some great sisters in my life while I am away from my own. They lift me up in prayer, laugh with me, cry with me, celebrate with me, learn with me, grow with me . . . all those things that a sister is meant to do.

Sometimes I take these sisterhoods for granted. Sometimes I forget how important they are to my life, my Christian walk, my sanity and my testimony. But God, as usual, reminded me how important these relationships are . . . and that in those, He is right there in the middle.

Thanks God...

For this is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. 1 John 3:11

Wordless Wednesday ~ Beauty in Nature

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 1 John 4:7

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ Perspective

Beautiful view, yes? I think so, but I was also raised on the coast. Now take a look at this one . . .

Not quite as breathtaking, I know.

Want to know the interesting thing about these two pictures? Well, I was sitting in the same exact spot while taking them both . . . just facing a different direction. With a different perspective.

That got me thinking . . . when we are in the middle of a trial, we (me included) often focus on things that make the situation seem endlessly horrible. God whispered to me that that is not how He wants us to be. Jesus did not promise us a peachy keen life once we became His followers . . . quite the opposite actually. He did say that He would never leave us, He would always be right by our sides.

Having experienced a bit of 'life' myself, I have learned from experience how changing one's perspective can seriously change so many things . . . for example, the seeming severity and duration of a trial. If we can only take our eyes off of all the negative things, and focus our eyes on Jesus, things will fall into place . . . like they are supposed to. Does this mean life won't be hard? Uh, no, but if we are focused on the right thing person, it won't really matter all that much . . . especially when we look back on it.

Think about it . . .

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

Monday Meditations ~ Love

What is love? No really . . . what is love? Is it some feeling you get when that someone special looks at you that way? Is it that feeling between a parent and a child? Well, yes it's all those things and more.

Love can be summed up into one simple yet profound statement . . . God is love. It even says so in the Bible. Check out 1 John 4:8.

Ok, so what to do with that? Well, He wants us to be more like Him . . . to love like Him. That's a toughie though. I mean, He sent His only Son to die on the cross for you and I . . . because He loved us. I'm not sure I could sentence my child to die because I love someone.

So, on this Valentine's day . . . let us all try to remember what love really is . . . and Who it came from. As you celebrate the loves in your life, try not to forget the most important Love . . . God.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

Foodie Friday ~ Freezer Breakfasts

As much my girls love cold cereal, I'm sure they get sick of eating it every morning. This is why when I make pancakes, I usually make a double batch and put some in the freezer for quick other-than-cereal breakfasts on school mornings. This doesn't cost me much extra time or money . . . which makes me happy. I mean, have you seen the price of a box of 12 pancakes at the store? The off brand costs $2, Lord knows what the name brand costs these days!

The girls also love French Toast . . . and French Toast sticks. So, whenever I go to the Mrs. Baird's Thrift Store, I pick up a few loaves of Texas Toast. I usually take a couple of hours on a Saturday and make those loaves into French Toast. Again, it doesn't cost me much extra time or money . . . whoop! Here are some pictures from the last time I made French Toast.

After I make them, I cut each slice into thirds.

After they are all done, I put them on a cookie sheet and into the freezer they go. Once they are frozen solid, I put them in a zipper bag, and viola! The girls have a quick, cheap non-cereal breakfast!

Anyone have other go to non-cereal breakfast ideas you'd like to share?

On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. 1 Corinthians 16:2

Thursday Thankfulness ~ Routine and Interruptions

Sometimes I wish I could be a 'fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants' type of person, but alas, I am not. I am a person who thrives on a routine. This is mostly a good thing, but can at times be a not so good thing. For example:

1. Incorporating new things into my routine can be hard. I have, at many points in my life, attempted to add things (like Bible reading) into my routine and FAILED . . . miserably. Why is this so hard? Well, I guess I just don't like change. It takes much discipline and diligence to add something new. I must be intentional. I must rely on God to show me those things that need to be added, and those things that need to be removed . . . and then I must lean on Him to help me. That, for me, is hard. I don't like needing anything, or anyone. I'm working on this in myself. Good thing God doesn't give up on me as easily as I do.

2. When my routine is interrupted, I get grumpy. Yeah, I said it, grumpy. Just ask my kids, it's true. For someone who likes structure and dislikes change, interruptions (like, oh I don't know, 5 snow days!) really don't sit well with me! I find it hard to stop worrying about my routine and just enjoy the company of the people I love. I know, shocking! This is another area in my life that God has really been working on me. He intentionally interrupts me to see how I will handle things. Will I not freak out and let Him direct my steps? (maybe after a little foot stomping)

He is constantly guiding me on this path He has placed me on. He is always fixing those little imperfections in me to make me more like Him. While it's not always enjoyable, it's welcome. I am grateful for the discomfort of the pruning process . . . it lets me know that He hasn't given up on me yet.

Thanks God . . .

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Wordless Wednesday ~ $7 Entertainment!

[Love for Enemies] “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. Matthew 5:43-45

Thoughtful Tuesday ~ Life

There are days in my life when it feels like I'm living in the middle of a reality TV show. And there are days I wish I were. Not for the celebrity factor . . . no, for the documentation factor. You see, I have seen too many times how quickly our memories can fade when we age . . . and I don't want to forget this wonderful life I'm living.

Just yesterday, as I was dropping my girls off at school, I experienced an all too familiar situation. They kissed me and bid me farewell for the day and I sat and watched them walk into the school. No big, right? Watching my Angel walk into that big school by herself (they used to walk in together, but now I guess she's big enough to do it herself *tear*) I realized that she's not a little girl any more. She has grown so much. I said aloud, "She's getting so big." Big Girl was still in the car and just kinda shrugged it off. I said to her, "And you are practically an adult already." She just smiled and walked off . . . unaware of the emotions I was experiencing.

So on my drive home, God and I had a little heart to heart. I asked Him, "Why does it have to go so fast?" He ever so gently reminded me that this life is not the one that is most important. He reminded me that this time with them as children is precious, yes, but more importantly, crucial. Crucial to their success as adults. Success in what? Being workers and harvesters for the Kingdom! It is my job, my calling if you will, to raise them up to fear the Lord and to make Him their #1 priority. My job is to lay the foundation . . . and He will do the rest.

I only hope that my job thus far laying their foundation is good enough to stand the test. I cannot know the answer to that. I can only trust that I am doing what He has called me to do, as their mother. Today, He tells me I'm doing fine . . . just the confirmation I needed. Thanks God . . .

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. Psalm 42:1