I read a question posted by Joyce Meyer, "Everything you do give your best. Have you given with excellence today?" It made me think of my conversation with my kids at the dinner table the other night. My youngest daughter needed her bread buttered. Everyone in my family knows ask Dad to butter bread not mom!!! ( Yes, we use real butter not margarine!) I forgot to bring the stick of butter out of the refrigerator to let it soften before we sat down to eat. The butter was brick hard. I took the piece of bread and slapped the butter on it! I tried to spread it but then left a hole in the piece of bread! Thinking nobody was paying attention, I passed the piece of bread to my youngest daughter. My oldest looks at me and ask the question "would you serve this to the President? My first thought was Yes! She continued and asked, "Would you serve this to God?" The answer of course was no. Conviction comes in all sizes! Yes, even from your own children.
Makenna has an amazing heart and for such a young girl packed with wisdom! She's not your typical normal teenager ( not claiming she is perfect!) and I'm so thankful! She sure does keep her mother in line that is for sure!!!
Everything we do should be done with excellence for the simple reason because we love our God. Everything we do matters to Him and yes even buttering the bread!!
So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, Do it for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31
Friday, December 21, 2012
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Simple is More than Enough
My son turned 10 years old yesterday! Sometimes he gets the short end of the stick since his birthday is 5 days before Christmas! We only do big birthday's for milestones. Since 10 is a big deal in a young boy or girls life, we are throwing him a party. However, he has to wait until the end of the December! On top of pushing his party to the end of the year, what I originally had planned for him yesterday, didn't turn out like I wanted. Instead of going out to eat as a family to his favorite restaurant, at the last minute decided the best choice would be to stay home and celebrate.
When I asked him, if fettuccine Alfredo would be OK for his birthday dinner. His response was, "sure mom!" Now, the only reason I could even make this meal was I found an EASY and I mean EASY recipe on pinterest! My new best friend! The kids loved it, which doesn't happen often! They have learned to except whatever I cook for dinner and pray it will turn out OK! When it does the entire family is happy! We planned on baking a cake, but changed it to a big brownie. Again, Markus was happy with whatever we made.
As we are sitting a the dinner table with paper plates ( I didn't feel like washing dishes), all different size and shape glasses because the kids have dropped and broke almost every cup we have! (Yes, I know I can buy plastic, but I'm weird and don't like using them!) Some of us had regular cups and others had a coffee mug! The brownie we ate for dessert had only 6 candles, because I forgot to buy them at the store. We couldn't lite the candles because the lighter wasn't working! We all sang happy birthday with the six unlit candles watching my son with a huge grin on his face! We gave him no presents because his party at the end of the month is his gift. We finished the night with hot chocolate and birthday spankings. Nothing Fancy just a simple dinner celebrating his special day!
After we prayed and tucked the kids in bed, Markus screams to us from his bedroom and says, "Mom and dad thank you for the best birthday ever!" It's all on how you view things! God used Markus to remind us that simple is more and more than enough.
Remember this Christmas, the manger and the baby may be simple but it's MORE than ENOUGH for you and me!
When I asked him, if fettuccine Alfredo would be OK for his birthday dinner. His response was, "sure mom!" Now, the only reason I could even make this meal was I found an EASY and I mean EASY recipe on pinterest! My new best friend! The kids loved it, which doesn't happen often! They have learned to except whatever I cook for dinner and pray it will turn out OK! When it does the entire family is happy! We planned on baking a cake, but changed it to a big brownie. Again, Markus was happy with whatever we made.
As we are sitting a the dinner table with paper plates ( I didn't feel like washing dishes), all different size and shape glasses because the kids have dropped and broke almost every cup we have! (Yes, I know I can buy plastic, but I'm weird and don't like using them!) Some of us had regular cups and others had a coffee mug! The brownie we ate for dessert had only 6 candles, because I forgot to buy them at the store. We couldn't lite the candles because the lighter wasn't working! We all sang happy birthday with the six unlit candles watching my son with a huge grin on his face! We gave him no presents because his party at the end of the month is his gift. We finished the night with hot chocolate and birthday spankings. Nothing Fancy just a simple dinner celebrating his special day!
After we prayed and tucked the kids in bed, Markus screams to us from his bedroom and says, "Mom and dad thank you for the best birthday ever!" It's all on how you view things! God used Markus to remind us that simple is more and more than enough.
Remember this Christmas, the manger and the baby may be simple but it's MORE than ENOUGH for you and me!
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
The Change the World so Desperately Needs.
After the horrific shooting that took place last weekend in CT, there are many different opinions and thoughts that are being talked about on what our county needs to do, to help stop this from happening again. However, when you turn on the TV, listen to the radio or even read comments on FB you will find little talk about bringing God back into our lives. Unless,of course you are a Christian. However, the very same people who have kicked God out of everything, public schools, politics, families and even their personal lives are shaking their finger and saying, "How could such a good and powerful God allow this to happen.?"
I don't write this blog pretending to know all the answers. I'm not an expert on anything. However, I am a woman who loves my husband, kids, family, friends, church and most importantly our God. I'm just to blame for all the junk in our world. For years, I may have believed in Him but was not willing to live for him. Thankfully, God is a forgiving God!
We have become a society that loves to blame everyone for our mistakes. It's not God who is to blame for the tragedies we experience. We are. We are responsible for the hate and violence in the world. Every time we choose what we want or want we think over God, tragic events that took place in CT is the final outcome. These such events don't just happen overnight. It starts with something small and with time grows to such a horrific tragedy, it leaves us paralyzed, wondering how could this happen? We push God out of everything. There are even churches that are choosing to teach what they believe and think. Instead of relying on the infallible word of God. We try to make God work and fit us. Only reaching out for him when we find ourselves in despair. As soon as disaster hits, we ask God where are you? "He is saying, I've been hear all along. I love you and have been seeking you since the day you were born. He doesn't give up on us know matter how much we turn our back on him. He does allow us to have our free will. He will not force us to love, follow or accept him. His heart aches as he waits patiently for his children to come back to him. However, as soon as disaster hits, God receives the blame.
We are all sinners. No, the average person would never do something to the extreme of what this shooter did in CT. However, we are all one choice away from making a decision that will not only have a negative effect on our personal life but the lives of the people we love and may not even know. We are all good at dressing ourselves up and hiding. Trying to do what is good. Go to work, show up at church, give a little and love the people who love us. We may fool a few people,but we can't fool God. He knows our hearts. We have become a society that thinks we deserve what ever we want. This may be hard for some people to hear, but We deserve NOTHING. We are all wicked people. It's so easy for people to look outward and compare themselves with others. Thinking they aren't so bad considering what their neighbors or friends may be doing. I dare you to look at your own life. your own heart. Asking God to reveal areas in your life where you sin. You will be shocked. When we harbor bitterness, hate, jealously, unforgiveness, selfishness, lust, sexual immorality and greed in our hearts, We are sinning against God. We like to think our sin is not as bad as the girl or guy down the street, or people sitting behind bars. Sin is Sin. The more we choose to sin we will find ourselves farther from the heart of God.
It's not the laws that should be the focal point of our country. It's the heart. How can we change the heart? The only answer to this is the blood of Jesus Christ and allowing the Holy Spirit to grow inside of each one of us.Thankfully, he doesn't expect perfection only a willing an open heart. It's about forgiveness. Humbling ourselves before God admitting we need a savior. God is a forgiving God. There isn't anything God can't forgive. All we have to do is ask. The more we walk and are full of the spirit the less we will sin. Its only the Love of Christ that will change the heart of man. Its only when the Spirit of God is alive in our hearts that will stop tragedy like the one the world is experiencing today. I would like to say the world is going to get better. Until we can turn our hearts from our selfish ways and turn back to Him, it will only get worse.
Christians, we can know longer allow the enemy to win. We are especially to blame. It is time to wake up. We hide allowing fear to keep us from the call on our lives. For you did not receive the Holy Spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you receive a spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father. The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. Romans 8:13-17
When we witness events in CT or in our surrounding neighbor hoods and do nothing, we are failing God. When we hear about 18 children that were brutally killed and do nothing expect talk about how terrible it is, we fail God. When we hear that 3,700 abortions are given every single day and do nothing. WE FAIL GOD. God's heart is grieving when he looks at his people. We need to wake up and do something. If you don't, we are failing God and can't blame anyone else but ourselves. When we see the children's ministry in our churches crying for help and turn the other way. We are failing God. He has called each one of us to do something. I don't know what it is for you, but it's time to step up,stop fearing people and begin to love, fear our God and do something. The body of Christ needs all of us. If you don't answer the call, then the people God wanted you to reach stay lost. The great author C.S Lewis was an atheist until he met his friend J. R. R. Token. Think about the blessings they have given us because of their love for Christ and following the call on their life. Maybe just showing up and doing what He calls you to do, will change the direction of a child or a families life forever. It's not about you it's about him. Our goal should be for God to use us in whatever way He needs to in order to bring Glory to him. It's not about our own success. We have this picture in our head that we deserve a perfect life with no pain. We think we deserve to live a long and healthy life in this world. . Christ never made those promises. He said the opposite that we will have troubles in this world. God does bring blessings. However, they don't always come as we pictured them. It's about God using our lives to bring people to know him. Whatever that may look like needs to be the goal, know matter how hard it may be. I pray everyday for health and protection over my children, husband, family and friends. I can't imagine what I would be like if I had to go through the pain and suffering those families in CT are dealing with today. I have to remember to keep my eyes on Christ and pray that no matter happens in my life that through the blessings I don't forget him and through the sufferings hold on to Christ will all my heart. Through my faith God will be glorified.
It starts with repentance, which means asking for forgiveness, prayer and bringing Christ in your life. and will It starts with you and your family. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.-1 John:9. This Christmas ask yourself, "Do you know Christ?" Do your children know Jesus? Begin to allow him to work in and through you. This is what is missing. Christ is our only hope. I pray that you open your heart to God allowing him to change your heart. This is when we will see the change the world so desperately needs.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-29
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
I don't write this blog pretending to know all the answers. I'm not an expert on anything. However, I am a woman who loves my husband, kids, family, friends, church and most importantly our God. I'm just to blame for all the junk in our world. For years, I may have believed in Him but was not willing to live for him. Thankfully, God is a forgiving God!
We have become a society that loves to blame everyone for our mistakes. It's not God who is to blame for the tragedies we experience. We are. We are responsible for the hate and violence in the world. Every time we choose what we want or want we think over God, tragic events that took place in CT is the final outcome. These such events don't just happen overnight. It starts with something small and with time grows to such a horrific tragedy, it leaves us paralyzed, wondering how could this happen? We push God out of everything. There are even churches that are choosing to teach what they believe and think. Instead of relying on the infallible word of God. We try to make God work and fit us. Only reaching out for him when we find ourselves in despair. As soon as disaster hits, we ask God where are you? "He is saying, I've been hear all along. I love you and have been seeking you since the day you were born. He doesn't give up on us know matter how much we turn our back on him. He does allow us to have our free will. He will not force us to love, follow or accept him. His heart aches as he waits patiently for his children to come back to him. However, as soon as disaster hits, God receives the blame.
We are all sinners. No, the average person would never do something to the extreme of what this shooter did in CT. However, we are all one choice away from making a decision that will not only have a negative effect on our personal life but the lives of the people we love and may not even know. We are all good at dressing ourselves up and hiding. Trying to do what is good. Go to work, show up at church, give a little and love the people who love us. We may fool a few people,but we can't fool God. He knows our hearts. We have become a society that thinks we deserve what ever we want. This may be hard for some people to hear, but We deserve NOTHING. We are all wicked people. It's so easy for people to look outward and compare themselves with others. Thinking they aren't so bad considering what their neighbors or friends may be doing. I dare you to look at your own life. your own heart. Asking God to reveal areas in your life where you sin. You will be shocked. When we harbor bitterness, hate, jealously, unforgiveness, selfishness, lust, sexual immorality and greed in our hearts, We are sinning against God. We like to think our sin is not as bad as the girl or guy down the street, or people sitting behind bars. Sin is Sin. The more we choose to sin we will find ourselves farther from the heart of God.
It's not the laws that should be the focal point of our country. It's the heart. How can we change the heart? The only answer to this is the blood of Jesus Christ and allowing the Holy Spirit to grow inside of each one of us.Thankfully, he doesn't expect perfection only a willing an open heart. It's about forgiveness. Humbling ourselves before God admitting we need a savior. God is a forgiving God. There isn't anything God can't forgive. All we have to do is ask. The more we walk and are full of the spirit the less we will sin. Its only the Love of Christ that will change the heart of man. Its only when the Spirit of God is alive in our hearts that will stop tragedy like the one the world is experiencing today. I would like to say the world is going to get better. Until we can turn our hearts from our selfish ways and turn back to Him, it will only get worse.
Christians, we can know longer allow the enemy to win. We are especially to blame. It is time to wake up. We hide allowing fear to keep us from the call on our lives. For you did not receive the Holy Spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you receive a spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father. The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. Romans 8:13-17
When we witness events in CT or in our surrounding neighbor hoods and do nothing, we are failing God. When we hear about 18 children that were brutally killed and do nothing expect talk about how terrible it is, we fail God. When we hear that 3,700 abortions are given every single day and do nothing. WE FAIL GOD. God's heart is grieving when he looks at his people. We need to wake up and do something. If you don't, we are failing God and can't blame anyone else but ourselves. When we see the children's ministry in our churches crying for help and turn the other way. We are failing God. He has called each one of us to do something. I don't know what it is for you, but it's time to step up,stop fearing people and begin to love, fear our God and do something. The body of Christ needs all of us. If you don't answer the call, then the people God wanted you to reach stay lost. The great author C.S Lewis was an atheist until he met his friend J. R. R. Token. Think about the blessings they have given us because of their love for Christ and following the call on their life. Maybe just showing up and doing what He calls you to do, will change the direction of a child or a families life forever. It's not about you it's about him. Our goal should be for God to use us in whatever way He needs to in order to bring Glory to him. It's not about our own success. We have this picture in our head that we deserve a perfect life with no pain. We think we deserve to live a long and healthy life in this world. . Christ never made those promises. He said the opposite that we will have troubles in this world. God does bring blessings. However, they don't always come as we pictured them. It's about God using our lives to bring people to know him. Whatever that may look like needs to be the goal, know matter how hard it may be. I pray everyday for health and protection over my children, husband, family and friends. I can't imagine what I would be like if I had to go through the pain and suffering those families in CT are dealing with today. I have to remember to keep my eyes on Christ and pray that no matter happens in my life that through the blessings I don't forget him and through the sufferings hold on to Christ will all my heart. Through my faith God will be glorified.
It starts with repentance, which means asking for forgiveness, prayer and bringing Christ in your life. and will It starts with you and your family. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.-1 John:9. This Christmas ask yourself, "Do you know Christ?" Do your children know Jesus? Begin to allow him to work in and through you. This is what is missing. Christ is our only hope. I pray that you open your heart to God allowing him to change your heart. This is when we will see the change the world so desperately needs.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-29
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
The Road Runner and Coyote. What True Friendship should look like!
Do you remember the Bugs Bunny cartoon the Coyote and the Road Runner? They would spend all day chasing each other trying to pretty much kill one another. Once, it was lunch time or the end of the day, you would find these two enemies walking towards the time clock to punch out. As soon as they were off the clock, they were best of friends!
Road Runner and the Coyote is a great picture of friendship. In order to have a healthy, unconditional love for one another, we need to put our pride down and agree to disagree. However, this is not always easy. Especially, when we feel so strongly on our beliefs. To my Christian brother and sisters we have to be careful not to let the minor issues blind us on the most important issue and that is the love of Christ. (The one issue that is not negotiable is knowing we are sinners and without Christ we are nothing. Christ is the Son of the Living God.).
No matter what our situation may be, if we claim to be followers of Christ, we have to be aware that there are just some people who cannot hear anything from you or me.( Those same people will not agree with you even if you agree with them! They will always be looking for something. Don't take it personal. It's their issue not yours. Just be you and stay the course.) This can happen with unbelievers or even within the body of Christ. We are all at different points in our lives. Arguing, debating and trying to convince people will never work. When we find ourselves in these situations, we cannot allow our emotions to get the best of us. We need to be able to turn the other cheek no matter how much it hurts. Does this mean give up? Stop standing up for what is right, good and noble? Of course not! However, we have to be able to admit we may be right but we may be wrong at times too. The only way to know for sure if we are right or wrong is instead of focusing on people and trying to proving yourself, we need to take whatever we are dealing, give it up and lay it at the feet of Christ and allow Him to do the work not you or me.
My hope would be that in our own country, instead of being divided, we could be like the road runner and coyote. When I turn on the t.v, radio or on face book, it doesn't look like it to me. What happened to the freedom of speech? What happened to be able to have choices and free to have your own opinion? If you don't agree with a certain political party, you are accused of being mean-spirited, prejudice, and closed minded. Many people know where I stand on faith, politics, health and education. (You many not agree with me and that is OK!). Some may not know, I use to be extremely liberal especially when it came to social issues. Since then, I have had a change of heart. However, when someone accuses me of being prejudice or not caring for others they just don't know me or my heart.
In order to love unconditionally and have friendships like the Road Runner and Coyote we have to rely on God for his grace, strength and mercy. To ask Him to continue to help show us the areas in our lives that need to die. We can only change ourselves, do what we believe God has called us to do allowing him to work through and in us and let Him do the rest. Arguing, debating, trying to convince or change anyone will never work. People have lost family and friends due to faith and politics. If this is you, first you have to ask God to reveal if there is any bitterness, pride, control, anger or jealously harboring in your heart. If there is, then you need to ask for forgiveness. If not, shake off the dust off your shoes and move on. To continue to pray for those who persecute you, love your neighbor and your enemies.
The Road Runner and Coyote is a great picture of friendship. No matter what, at the end of the day they never let something get in their way of friendship! However, only Christ can help you be a true friend and do what is right. He is the one we need to look and to depend on as an example on how to love. To forgive ourselves and to forgive people like Jesus did at the cross. Remember, People do what they do not know but we still need to love and accept them anyway! This means even if you disagree in your faith and Politics!
Road Runner and the Coyote is a great picture of friendship. In order to have a healthy, unconditional love for one another, we need to put our pride down and agree to disagree. However, this is not always easy. Especially, when we feel so strongly on our beliefs. To my Christian brother and sisters we have to be careful not to let the minor issues blind us on the most important issue and that is the love of Christ. (The one issue that is not negotiable is knowing we are sinners and without Christ we are nothing. Christ is the Son of the Living God.).
No matter what our situation may be, if we claim to be followers of Christ, we have to be aware that there are just some people who cannot hear anything from you or me.( Those same people will not agree with you even if you agree with them! They will always be looking for something. Don't take it personal. It's their issue not yours. Just be you and stay the course.) This can happen with unbelievers or even within the body of Christ. We are all at different points in our lives. Arguing, debating and trying to convince people will never work. When we find ourselves in these situations, we cannot allow our emotions to get the best of us. We need to be able to turn the other cheek no matter how much it hurts. Does this mean give up? Stop standing up for what is right, good and noble? Of course not! However, we have to be able to admit we may be right but we may be wrong at times too. The only way to know for sure if we are right or wrong is instead of focusing on people and trying to proving yourself, we need to take whatever we are dealing, give it up and lay it at the feet of Christ and allow Him to do the work not you or me.
My hope would be that in our own country, instead of being divided, we could be like the road runner and coyote. When I turn on the t.v, radio or on face book, it doesn't look like it to me. What happened to the freedom of speech? What happened to be able to have choices and free to have your own opinion? If you don't agree with a certain political party, you are accused of being mean-spirited, prejudice, and closed minded. Many people know where I stand on faith, politics, health and education. (You many not agree with me and that is OK!). Some may not know, I use to be extremely liberal especially when it came to social issues. Since then, I have had a change of heart. However, when someone accuses me of being prejudice or not caring for others they just don't know me or my heart.
In order to love unconditionally and have friendships like the Road Runner and Coyote we have to rely on God for his grace, strength and mercy. To ask Him to continue to help show us the areas in our lives that need to die. We can only change ourselves, do what we believe God has called us to do allowing him to work through and in us and let Him do the rest. Arguing, debating, trying to convince or change anyone will never work. People have lost family and friends due to faith and politics. If this is you, first you have to ask God to reveal if there is any bitterness, pride, control, anger or jealously harboring in your heart. If there is, then you need to ask for forgiveness. If not, shake off the dust off your shoes and move on. To continue to pray for those who persecute you, love your neighbor and your enemies.
The Road Runner and Coyote is a great picture of friendship. No matter what, at the end of the day they never let something get in their way of friendship! However, only Christ can help you be a true friend and do what is right. He is the one we need to look and to depend on as an example on how to love. To forgive ourselves and to forgive people like Jesus did at the cross. Remember, People do what they do not know but we still need to love and accept them anyway! This means even if you disagree in your faith and Politics!
Thursday, December 6, 2012
My Advent Tree and the Poision of Perfection!
Here is a picture of the advent tree the kids and I made! If you know me, you know I'm know Martha Stewart or Betty Croker! Thankfully, I finally checked out what all the buzz was about with pinterest. It's my new best friend! Here is why:
I gave up a long time ago trying to be perfect! Perfection is a deadly poison and if not taken care of it can creep into every part of your life and keep you miserable. Nothing will be good enough, you will always be diapointed, miss opportunity to enjoy, grow and build healthy relationships with you children, spouse, friends and even yourself. This poison will even keep your sex life dull and boring!
I'm not the kind of mom who knits, quilts, or sews! I love this stuff but I have to be honest, real and know who I am and what I'm capable of doing. When Markus was 4 years old, I had this great idea of making his Halloween costume. I love home made costumes, but they need to be the kind I can make out of a box or follow someone else's directions. Not coming up with the idea all by myself. Let's just say my son, who is 10 years old, still has nightmares about his costume. He was suppose to be Kung fu Panda. His friends had know idea who he was! He will never let me make his costume again! I've damaged him for life!!!
However, I love and admire woman who are creative and gifted in areas like arts, crafts and baking. Especially, when they can share the simple and easy to do projects someone like me can do at home! I'm serious I need someone to spell out every step even something so little as thread the needle or turn on the oven!!! I need women who are talented in these areas in my life because my kids love this stuff!
Looking for EASY to do Christmas projects on pinterest, I came across some cute ideas for an Advent tree. I didn't want to just go and buy something at the store, because it would cost me more and takes the fun away for the kids. These crafty mom's helped me expand my mind and realize I could do this! Except, it had to be something we ( meaning me) could create from the dollar store!
It's not the Mona Lisa or some wonderful art display! But it's our own Advent Tree. We bought a Christmas tree from Family dollar for $3.00, mini Christmas bulbs for $5.00 , white out to write the numbers from now until Christmas and a little box which I put different ideas to do from now until December 25th! Things like read the Christmas story from the Bible, decorate bedroom doors with wrapping paper, make cookies, go look at Christmas lights, a live nativity seen, random acts of kindness, etc, you get the point!
This blog really isn't about the Advent Tree. It's about being the best you that God wants YOU to be! Not comparing yourself to others and not drinking the poisonous Perfection that many woman think they need to be. If you get rid of this, you will enjoy this Christmas Season!
I think I'm going to dedicate the next few blogs on killing Perfection! There is no room for Perfection when you have four kids, home educate and trying to potty train all at the same time!!!
I gave up a long time ago trying to be perfect! Perfection is a deadly poison and if not taken care of it can creep into every part of your life and keep you miserable. Nothing will be good enough, you will always be diapointed, miss opportunity to enjoy, grow and build healthy relationships with you children, spouse, friends and even yourself. This poison will even keep your sex life dull and boring!
I'm not the kind of mom who knits, quilts, or sews! I love this stuff but I have to be honest, real and know who I am and what I'm capable of doing. When Markus was 4 years old, I had this great idea of making his Halloween costume. I love home made costumes, but they need to be the kind I can make out of a box or follow someone else's directions. Not coming up with the idea all by myself. Let's just say my son, who is 10 years old, still has nightmares about his costume. He was suppose to be Kung fu Panda. His friends had know idea who he was! He will never let me make his costume again! I've damaged him for life!!!
However, I love and admire woman who are creative and gifted in areas like arts, crafts and baking. Especially, when they can share the simple and easy to do projects someone like me can do at home! I'm serious I need someone to spell out every step even something so little as thread the needle or turn on the oven!!! I need women who are talented in these areas in my life because my kids love this stuff!
Looking for EASY to do Christmas projects on pinterest, I came across some cute ideas for an Advent tree. I didn't want to just go and buy something at the store, because it would cost me more and takes the fun away for the kids. These crafty mom's helped me expand my mind and realize I could do this! Except, it had to be something we ( meaning me) could create from the dollar store!
It's not the Mona Lisa or some wonderful art display! But it's our own Advent Tree. We bought a Christmas tree from Family dollar for $3.00, mini Christmas bulbs for $5.00 , white out to write the numbers from now until Christmas and a little box which I put different ideas to do from now until December 25th! Things like read the Christmas story from the Bible, decorate bedroom doors with wrapping paper, make cookies, go look at Christmas lights, a live nativity seen, random acts of kindness, etc, you get the point!
This blog really isn't about the Advent Tree. It's about being the best you that God wants YOU to be! Not comparing yourself to others and not drinking the poisonous Perfection that many woman think they need to be. If you get rid of this, you will enjoy this Christmas Season!
I think I'm going to dedicate the next few blogs on killing Perfection! There is no room for Perfection when you have four kids, home educate and trying to potty train all at the same time!!!
Do you ever feel like you are Pig Pen from the peanuts cartoon? Dirty and never good enough?
When I post my blogs and talk about God's love, mercy, grace and forgiveness, It's real. For those who love and seek Him, He has a special plan for your life.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
You may not understand what or why He is doing what he is doing in your life, but He is good all the time. I don't know what his plan is for your life, but for me I know it's Big! He is using me right now in a huge way with the four kids He has given me!
God does not change. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. His promises are not just for your friends, neighbors, co-workers or family members. They are for you too. However, it's up to you. Can you give up what you want and exchange it for what God wants for your life. Trust me, his plans are much better than what we could ever think of! Can you give God all of you? Are you willing to keep persevering even during the tough times? Believe me following Christ will not be easy.
In order to follow Jesus, we have to pick up our own cross and follow him daily. In order to follow him we have to willing to die to ourselves. Sitting around and talking about God and the dreams that you believe He has placed on your heart is one thing. Actually setting out to do it and allowing Him to work in and through you is a completely different story.
It is so hard as much as I trust and love God. God has called me to be transparent and share my life lessons to other people especially women and kids. I love encouraging, inspiring, speaking and teaching God's word. I love how God has used me to speak Life into my kids, husband, family, friends and even strangers I meet on any single day. However, it does't mean it's always easy. I have been pushed away and laughed at by many people. So, speaking life to myself, is a completely different story. The closer I walk toward my calling that little cloud of negativity is hanging right over my head. I sometimes feel like pig pen from the peanuts cartoon. Never good enough with some dirty cloud or dust hanging around me. Except Pig Pen holds on to his blanket, I'm grabbing on to Christ with all my heart, refusing to let the enemy or myself talk me out of what God is leading me to do. There are times I feel like just hiding in my house, closing down my blog and just keeping to myself. Of course, I can't do that because I would drive my husband and kids bonkers! Also, the enemy wins.It's not about me and what I feel. It's what I know. It's about him. I will always question just what if. It's not worth it. The risk, the struggles, the negativity and even discouragement you may receive from other people, is not worth giving up on God's call on your life. " Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 2-4
I ask God, "will these negative thoughts and feelings ever go away." He hasn't given me a clear answer. However, what I do know is this. It keeps me humble. It keeps me focused and to rely on God for strength. It's reminds me it's always about Him and never me. To wait on Him.
Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. -2nd Corinthians 7-10
The thorn or cloud, whatever you want to call it, that likes to creep up over me,is worth it. Especially, if it keeps me grounded and helps remind me of the pain and struggles people feel everyday. I haven't gone through half of what many people are or have experienced. If these moments of doubt and fear are what keeps my passion burning to help other people, then that little gray cloud can stay as long as it needs to.
My friends, if you experience any fear, it's not from God. Don't give up. You are not alone in this fight! If you need prayer, please let me know. You can send me an email, post it on my blog or on my facebook page. I ask if you would pleae keep my family and myself, in your prayers as well!
For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. Pslams 30:5
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
You may not understand what or why He is doing what he is doing in your life, but He is good all the time. I don't know what his plan is for your life, but for me I know it's Big! He is using me right now in a huge way with the four kids He has given me!
God does not change. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. His promises are not just for your friends, neighbors, co-workers or family members. They are for you too. However, it's up to you. Can you give up what you want and exchange it for what God wants for your life. Trust me, his plans are much better than what we could ever think of! Can you give God all of you? Are you willing to keep persevering even during the tough times? Believe me following Christ will not be easy.
In order to follow Jesus, we have to pick up our own cross and follow him daily. In order to follow him we have to willing to die to ourselves. Sitting around and talking about God and the dreams that you believe He has placed on your heart is one thing. Actually setting out to do it and allowing Him to work in and through you is a completely different story.
It is so hard as much as I trust and love God. God has called me to be transparent and share my life lessons to other people especially women and kids. I love encouraging, inspiring, speaking and teaching God's word. I love how God has used me to speak Life into my kids, husband, family, friends and even strangers I meet on any single day. However, it does't mean it's always easy. I have been pushed away and laughed at by many people. So, speaking life to myself, is a completely different story. The closer I walk toward my calling that little cloud of negativity is hanging right over my head. I sometimes feel like pig pen from the peanuts cartoon. Never good enough with some dirty cloud or dust hanging around me. Except Pig Pen holds on to his blanket, I'm grabbing on to Christ with all my heart, refusing to let the enemy or myself talk me out of what God is leading me to do. There are times I feel like just hiding in my house, closing down my blog and just keeping to myself. Of course, I can't do that because I would drive my husband and kids bonkers! Also, the enemy wins.It's not about me and what I feel. It's what I know. It's about him. I will always question just what if. It's not worth it. The risk, the struggles, the negativity and even discouragement you may receive from other people, is not worth giving up on God's call on your life. " Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 2-4
I ask God, "will these negative thoughts and feelings ever go away." He hasn't given me a clear answer. However, what I do know is this. It keeps me humble. It keeps me focused and to rely on God for strength. It's reminds me it's always about Him and never me. To wait on Him.
Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. -2nd Corinthians 7-10
The thorn or cloud, whatever you want to call it, that likes to creep up over me,is worth it. Especially, if it keeps me grounded and helps remind me of the pain and struggles people feel everyday. I haven't gone through half of what many people are or have experienced. If these moments of doubt and fear are what keeps my passion burning to help other people, then that little gray cloud can stay as long as it needs to.
My friends, if you experience any fear, it's not from God. Don't give up. You are not alone in this fight! If you need prayer, please let me know. You can send me an email, post it on my blog or on my facebook page. I ask if you would pleae keep my family and myself, in your prayers as well!
For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. Pslams 30:5
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Are you tired of Laundry? Here are a few tips on keeping your laundry from turning into mountains!
A few years ago, I found myself downstairs with what seemed like a mountain of clothes! I thought maybe the scripture, "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it would move'."- Matthew 17:20, would work!!! It was moving alright! Just not in the direction I was hoping for! It was taking over my entire laundry room floor. This just didn't happen once in awhile. It was all the time.
The kids were much younger at the time. I would spend an entire day trying to get the clothes all caught up. As soon as the clothes were cleaned and put away, the mountain would already begin forming. I would want to scream and I probably did! We have a shoot and the kids loved using it! (I think everything was thrown down it including toilet paper and toys! If I couldn't find something, I new where to look, In the pile under the shoot!) Because we didn't see the dirty clothes, we wouldn't bother to look until we had nothing in the drawers to wear! I would walk downstairs and the mountain would be staring right at me! I just wanted to run back upstairs and pretend it wasn't there!!! Couldn't we just go and buy new clothes and throw the dirty ones away! Of course I didn't o this, but it sure crossed my mind. Mark would be scared to put any of his clothes down the shoot, because he didn't know when the next time he would see the shirt, pants and even underwear again! Thankfully, he is a guy and if needed he could just turn his underwear inside out and wear them again! ( I'm just joking kinda!)
As a mom, if we want to get better at something and grow we need to drop our pride and ask for help! I want to be the best me that God has planned for me to be. I don't want to be anyone else. I know who I am, what I'm strong at and what I desperately need help with and organiztion is one of them! . If it wasn't for the grace of God and the people he placed in my life that have taught me how to be a better wife, mother and woman, I would still be a hot mess! I would still be complaining about everything but not willing to learn, try something new and change! I'm still a work in progress. However, without God and the beautiful people I have learned from, I wouldn't be who I am today.
One day, my mom who I love dearly, came over to help me! I seriously don't know what I would do without her. She gave me a great idea on how to keep my laundry organized!
If you are like I was and just sick and tired of your mountains of laundry, here is what I do. If it helps great and if you think I'm a crazy person that is cool just ignore this blog! You probably have a better plan than me. I'm a slow learner and if there is anyone out there like me, this simple idea might save you from the hours I was wasting and the stress I was feeling!
My mom told me to buy a laundry basket for each room. The kids have a basket, one in the bathroom and one in our room. This way we see the basket and when it begins to fill up, it's time to do a load of laundry. This keeps it from forming into the out of control piles that would make me feel so overwhelmed. This helps me do at this one load of laundry every other day. Sometimes less and maybe sometimes more, but this way I don't have to spend hours folding and cleaning clothes. Plus there is an added benefit! My kids learned how to do their own laundry! They know when their basket is getting full, walk the basket downstairs, sort the clothes, wash and dry them! I do help them from time to time, but you better believe each kid except for Marie knows how to work the washing machine , dryer, fold clothes and put them away! It has helped me out so much. Also, it has been a great teaching tool for the kids!
There you go! If you are sick of your mountains of clothes in the basement, this is one idea. You may not be able to tell the clothes to move from here to there, but you can create your own ideas that work for you, so you don't have the stress of spending your day off doing laundry or running around the house like a crazy person trying to find something clean to wear! ( Been there and done that a million of times! I was sick of doing that and new something needed to change! The change was within me!)
The kids were much younger at the time. I would spend an entire day trying to get the clothes all caught up. As soon as the clothes were cleaned and put away, the mountain would already begin forming. I would want to scream and I probably did! We have a shoot and the kids loved using it! (I think everything was thrown down it including toilet paper and toys! If I couldn't find something, I new where to look, In the pile under the shoot!) Because we didn't see the dirty clothes, we wouldn't bother to look until we had nothing in the drawers to wear! I would walk downstairs and the mountain would be staring right at me! I just wanted to run back upstairs and pretend it wasn't there!!! Couldn't we just go and buy new clothes and throw the dirty ones away! Of course I didn't o this, but it sure crossed my mind. Mark would be scared to put any of his clothes down the shoot, because he didn't know when the next time he would see the shirt, pants and even underwear again! Thankfully, he is a guy and if needed he could just turn his underwear inside out and wear them again! ( I'm just joking kinda!)
As a mom, if we want to get better at something and grow we need to drop our pride and ask for help! I want to be the best me that God has planned for me to be. I don't want to be anyone else. I know who I am, what I'm strong at and what I desperately need help with and organiztion is one of them! . If it wasn't for the grace of God and the people he placed in my life that have taught me how to be a better wife, mother and woman, I would still be a hot mess! I would still be complaining about everything but not willing to learn, try something new and change! I'm still a work in progress. However, without God and the beautiful people I have learned from, I wouldn't be who I am today.
One day, my mom who I love dearly, came over to help me! I seriously don't know what I would do without her. She gave me a great idea on how to keep my laundry organized!
If you are like I was and just sick and tired of your mountains of laundry, here is what I do. If it helps great and if you think I'm a crazy person that is cool just ignore this blog! You probably have a better plan than me. I'm a slow learner and if there is anyone out there like me, this simple idea might save you from the hours I was wasting and the stress I was feeling!
My mom told me to buy a laundry basket for each room. The kids have a basket, one in the bathroom and one in our room. This way we see the basket and when it begins to fill up, it's time to do a load of laundry. This keeps it from forming into the out of control piles that would make me feel so overwhelmed. This helps me do at this one load of laundry every other day. Sometimes less and maybe sometimes more, but this way I don't have to spend hours folding and cleaning clothes. Plus there is an added benefit! My kids learned how to do their own laundry! They know when their basket is getting full, walk the basket downstairs, sort the clothes, wash and dry them! I do help them from time to time, but you better believe each kid except for Marie knows how to work the washing machine , dryer, fold clothes and put them away! It has helped me out so much. Also, it has been a great teaching tool for the kids!
There you go! If you are sick of your mountains of clothes in the basement, this is one idea. You may not be able to tell the clothes to move from here to there, but you can create your own ideas that work for you, so you don't have the stress of spending your day off doing laundry or running around the house like a crazy person trying to find something clean to wear! ( Been there and done that a million of times! I was sick of doing that and new something needed to change! The change was within me!)
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Loneliness is a scary place to be.
Loneliness is a horrible place to be. Unless, you have gone through it, there is no way to describe the reality of giving up, running away or worse yet ending your own life. Loneliness can be hidden and most of the time can fool everyone around you. Loneliness doesn't mean you have no friends, family, success or sit in your room never coming out doors. Loneliness doesn't mean you don't love Jesus. Actually, you could be part of a thriving church, serving, showing up on Sunday's worshiping God, surrounded by people who love and know your name and still be lost in Loneliness.
If you are going through a time in your life where there it seems like the light will never shine in your favor again, I hope this blog will breath at least an ounce of hope back in your soul. I don't know your story, where you are in your life or what you have experienced. However, when it comes to loneliness I can relate. I've experienced it more than once in my life. It's the enemy's way to keep you from the life God has promised you.There are different levels of Loneliness and some are more serious than others. For some it may just be a season but for others it has taken it's own identity and controlling the persons life. For some, it begins to whisper little negative comments in your head until it blows up to full blown lies that you truly believe as truth. The reason I can say make these comments because I have experienced my own personal dark times. One in particular was shortly after Mark and I were married, I was diagnosed as bipolar. For years, I was ashamed of the diagnosis, my mistakes and so afraid of what someone might think of me. I was alone even though I was surrounded by people who truly loved me. They had no idea the pain I was dealing with on the inside. I know what it feels like to think you are just a screw up and ending your own life might be the best thing for the people you love. I couldn't stand hurting people by my own actions anymore.
Looking back on it now, I believe it was a misdiagnosis. I was definitely depressed but labeling me as bipolar on the first visit and loading me up on tons of medication was not the answer. However, for me at the time it was. It was an excuse to not have to look deeper in the mirror at myself. I used it as a crutch, excuses to drink way to much alcholol, act out of control and to get some sort of attention even if it was negative.
But God does not take those dark times and waste them. I learned some of the most powerful lessons about, others and judgement. See, I didn't realize at that time, God was beginning to call me in women's ministry. Going through those times and feeling the pain that the majority of people feel everyday, would help me relate to others. Don't let someone's life fool you and think their life is perfect and you are just a big looser. Nobody has a perfect life. Some just know how to dress it up and disguise their loneliness with money, success, fame or just business. Some peopole may try to fool you and act like they have it all going on but when they get home and the door is closed, it's a different story. Even people who are married sometimes don't even know the pain their love one is struggling with. It's time to reach out to other people. You just don't know, how God can use you to help just one person who feels like they don't have a friend in the world or how nobody understands.
Whether or not I was bipolar, I don't know. I do know my parents, mark and I went to church every week. I prayed. I remember my mom praying so hard. I truly believe the healing power of Jesus is what healed me. I don't regret going through what I did. I made me who I am today. A lover of Jesus Christ and someone who wants to be used by God to help anyone else that may be suffering today.
Jesus is the only answer. In His own words, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one goes to the Father except through me." -John 14:6.
You may know, believe and have a relationship with Christ but have never truly experience the healing power of God. My friends, today let it begin the day of giving it all to Christ and walking away from complete loneliness. It will never be easy but with Christ all things are possible. It's time for you to be in complete freedom. It's time to stop believing the lies of loneliness. There is help, it's up to you to reach out to the people God is placing in your life.
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