Mindful of Us

Mama Love

2012-01-23T08:12:00.001-08:00

There is nothing in this world that can compare to a mother’s love for her children and to those she loves like her own children. Today I was browsing through blogs I subscribe to and came across this post by Ann Voskamp over at A Holy Experience. As I read it I remembered my grandmother. We all called her Granny. She’s my mother’s mom. We were blessed that she lived close by and was one of my best friends growing up. She went home to heaven when I was just 18 and it’s disconcerting that many memories of her seem to be slipping away but this one is clear to me. My mother was sick with pneumonia or some respiratory illness and 4 children to take care of. She tried her best but the illness confined her to bed…One phone call was all it took and Granny, who didn’t have a car or even a driver’s license made it over the Cooper River to our house. There she stayed on the couch caring for Mama until she was well and making sure the four kids were bathed, fed, and got off to school. Thank God for our wonderful Mamas!

A Wonderful Much Appreciated Surprise

2012-01-11T10:06:00.001-08:00

As I do everyday when I pull my car into the driveway, I closed my eyes for a minute and whispered “God please give me patience and strength for whatever I find inside”. When I left in the morning there was a load of laundry in the dryer, a load in the washer , a few pots and pans on the stove, and dishes in the sink waiting to be rinsed and placed in the dishwasher. Up the back stairs to the kitchen door I go with my laptop bag dragging behind me and there through the window I see my husband, Mike, washing pots. I quickly turn the knob and go inside. I doff my coat and put my bags away and come back to the kitchen and grab my apron. Now he’s finished the pots…they are stacked in the drainer and he’s now cleaning the stovetop. At that moment I want to cry and throw my arms around his neck…call my sister-in-law and have her come get Samuel because I need some alone time with my husband, but hey it’s a school night and there is dinner to get….maybe later. It's not that Mike never helps around the house...he just hasn't lately because he has a job where he is on his feet for pretty much 8 hours and on top of that he has problems with his feet and the last thing he wants to do when he comes home is more standing. Anyway, once the ceramic stovetop is polished he says…”It’s all yours” and gives me a quick kiss and heads for his recliner. I feel loved! But it was just a few dishes, right?

5 Things to do when you find yourself home alone!

2011-12-27T12:32:00.001-08:00

I’m not talking about when you know you’re going to be home alone because whenever that happens you’ve most likely planned your day in advance. I’m talking about when your husband appears in the doorway with the kids and says “Hey babe…going to (does it really matter) and I’m taking the kids with me (Yippee!!!). We should be back in a few hours (music to my ears!)

Immediately, I’m like…What do I do with myself!? Well here’s some ideas, in case you’re thinking of grabbing a mop and bucket or cleaning out a closet!

A long soak in the tub complete with bubble bath (be sure to have some on hand for just such an occasion).
Watch a wonderful tear-jerker, girl-empowerment film, or some other chick-flick you can’t watch when everyone is home. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Write – blog, journal, recipes, doesn’t matter!
Read – a blog, recipes, novel, Bible, trashy harlequin, doesn’t matter!
Phone a friend – be totally understanding if she seems distracted, after all she might not have your good fortune of having the morning or afternoon to herself.

I Found It!

2011-12-13T14:01:00.000-08:00

It's back...I knew it was somewhere in the house and finally I found it. My watch has been missing for about 3 weeks...I think it disappeared right after Malachai left for Virginia, so before Thanksgiving. I've felt absolutely naked without it. It's such a pain to pull out my cell phone every time I need to know the time (I mean when out and about...at home there's usually a clock within sight).
My watch is NOTHING special to look at but it is special to me. My Timex has been with me for 17 years! My wonderful husband gave it to me when we were dating and I just keep buying new watch bands and replacing the batteries! Back when he bought it for me, the Sun/Moon cutout was popular and I mentioned to him that I needed a watch and that I wanted one with the cutout. He being a good boyfriend complied. Awww...dating! Anyway, It's found and I'm so happy! Just in case you're wondering, it was in the flatware/napkin caddy we used for Malachai's coming home party...I was putting away the pasta maker and while up on the step stool I saw the watch in the caddy. I squealed in delight and put my watch on...Hooray.

I Won!

2011-12-11T16:47:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I discovered a new blog...Easy Recipes by Donna. Donna's site has excellent recipes and cooking tips for those of us who are kitchen challenged like myself.
I entered her November giveaway and won the grand prize - A 10 inch Lodge cast iron skillet. If arrived just yesterday and I'm using it to fry chicken tonight. Thank you so much Donna. I love my new skillet!

Saying “I Love You!”

2011-11-06T18:36:00.001-08:00

There it was…the dress in her mothers hands. It was just as beautiful as she remembered when she saw it in the store. She looked at the dress then to her mother and back at the dress. She gasped and brought her hands up to her mouth. “Mom! I can’t believe it…I never expected”..”Well go try it on” Mom says handing her the dress. She runs to her mom’s arms and plants kisses all over her face…”Thanks Mom…I love you…I love you … I love you!” She grabs the dress and squeals with delight.

“I love you” come easy and frequent when we’re receiving what we want or being surprised with something we didn’t even know we wanted.

When life is going along without any bumps in the road I remember to tell God how much I love him….I stop during the day and think to myself “God is so good.” When there are trials and life gets a little difficult the questions come. “Why me God?”…”What did I do?” “Are you there God?”

A week after receiving the dress she didn’t get permission to go to a party “everyone” is going to. “Why are you ruining my life?” She asks her mother “Don’t you want me to be happy?” “How can you do this to me!?”

God loves us always. Jesus says he will never leave or forsake us. We must remember to love God always in times of plenty and in want. When there are trials and when God is growing us up through trials.

There’s a line in Mercy Me’s “Bring the Rain” that goes “Can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in you?” The answer to this question is “No”. As the song continues …

“And I know there'll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain”

Whew…what a relief.

2011-08-17T18:54:00.001-07:00

If you’re a mom you’ve probably said these words at least once “Don’t eat that now….you’ll spoil your dinner.”

If my 6 year old eats a bag of chips, cookies, strawberries, whatever… it fills his little tummy and there is less room for the meal I’ve prepared.

The weakness of our hunger for God is not because he is unsavory, but because we keep ourselves stuffed with “other things”. John Piper A Hunger for God

So If my hunger for God is being satiated elsewhere….that has to stop. So here’s what I’ve decided to do….

1. Ask God to show me what in my life is taking time away from a relationship with him.

I will pray but I already have an idea of what is in the way…I watch way too much TV!

2. Set a tangible goal to move away from the world and toward God.

For example: Schedule TV viewing. I have very few favorite TV programs. If I set a goal to only watch my favorites it will greatly reduce the amount of time I spend in front of the TV…freeing up time for other things

Find an interesting Bible study and do it!

3. Tell one of my sisters in Christ about my goal and ask them to hold me accountable.

Little Stuff - Big Stuff! God Sees it all the Same

2011-07-27T13:37:00.000-07:00

Have you heard this song yet?
Makes you think of 1 Cor 10:31,1 Peter 4:10, or maybe Col 3:17

Am I the only one who …

2011-07-23T11:51:00.001-07:00

Am I the only one who has trouble reading through the book of Exodus? The other day I was watching “Moses” on TBN. It was the standard from bulrushes to the promised land story but I must admit that there were parts of the movie where I wasn’t sure if the movie makers took some poetic license or if the events were biblical. So I picked up my Bible and started with Exodus 1:1. I was doing great with reading. I still can’t seem to name all the plagues, much less name them in order…sort of reminds me of trying to name the 7 dwarfs because I ALWAYS seem to forget Bashful. Anyways I reading along and it’s all pretty exciting reading until I get to….can you guess…yes..Exodus 21. It’s right after the Ten Commandments. Then comes the rest of laws and they go on for quite a few chapter. At first, very interesting reading, laws about how to treat slaves, laws about property, laws about justice. I found it all fascinating. Got me thinking about the way our justice system works today. Then I turned the page and BAM! It’s all about the offerings for the Tabernacle and building The Ark.

Maybe it I were into carpentry and the like I’d find this all fascinating but this is about where I lose interest and move on to another book. I’ve heard Leviticus and Numbers are equally riveting so I usually skip over to Joshua. I do realize that you can’t read through the entire Bible by skipping books in the Bible so if anyone has any suggestions for making it through the mind-numbing details found in the rest of Exodus please let me know how you get through it.

Still the baby?

2011-03-18T10:37:00.001-07:00

“Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” Hebrews 5:13-14

I’ve been a Christian for years now…I wish I could give you an exact date but I can’t because I can’t remember. There are those that tell me that I should know. It’s an important date after all. It’s my spiritual birthday so why don’t I know the date? Perhaps at the time I didn’t think my commitment would last or perhaps I felt it was something I’d always remember. I mean, I can recall the moment very clearly and I know it was on a Sunday. I know who prayed with me and who was in the room as I prayed to recommit my life to Jesus but the month and date escapes me. I do know the year..at least I’m pretty certain it was 2007. How do I know that…well here’s how I figured it out.

In 2006 I went to a girl’s weekend with my friends in Vermont! It was a memorable weekend with drinking, drinking games, getting drunk , board games, lots of food and fun. I was NOT a Christian when I attended that weekend getaway. Well, in April of 2008 I visited my mother and we spent time reading our Bible together and praying together. We had another girl’s weekend which was pretty much like the weekend in 2006 but this time I didn’t do much drinking (yes, I was doing some drinking but I wasn’t getting drunk…didn’t feel like it.) I spent time getting up early to pray and read my Bible. Based on those two events I know I became a Christian sometime during 2007 and I think it was in the fall. Before Christmas I think. You know what’s funny. My mom sent me a book of devotions for new Christians right after I told her that I became a Christian. Usually she writes in the books she sends me and dates them but not this time…when it matters most. Huh? Anyway I’m rambling…thank you for hanging in there with me because I do have a point and here it is.

I’m a 4 year old Christian…so I’m not a baby anymore. Seriously…ask any 4 year old if he/she is a baby and they will tell you emphatically “No! I’m not a baby!” So if I’m not a baby, why do I feel the need to tell people “I’m just a baby Christian?” I have 2 ideas.

Babies don’t have to know the things someone who is older knows.
Babies don’t have the responsibilities that someone older has.

As a baby Christian I think I have an excuse when I struggle to find a passage in the Bible…who is Joel? Haggai? If anyone else is in the same boat here’s something I have learned…..if you don’t recognize the name it’s probably in the Old Testament and it’s near the back, between Daniel and Malachi! Little children in Awana can recite the books of the Bible in order! There’s no reason a 5 year old Christian shouldn’t at least know the names of all 66 books. I’ve had plenty of time!

I don’t have many Bible verses committed to memory either…after all babies can’t memorize stuff like that! Can they?

As a baby Christian I can’t possibly witness or teach! I don’t know enough! Remember I don’t have verses memorized. Mature Christians can handle those tasks, I’m still learning. Really? After 5 years I know what Jesus wants me to tell others (1) All need to be saved (2) Jesus and only Jesus can save you.

So it’s time to grow up! It’s time to make the choice to make the time (create opportunities) because I’ve had plenty of time (seconds, minutes, hours, days, etc) to grow.

There is great blessing in growing up in my relationship with Christ. As I grow in my relationship and God is able to use me I will be blessed. God wants to bless me but I have to make the effort to move ahead and mature.

Dear Lord…I want to grow and mature. I want to learn your will for my life and have you use me. Forgive my laziness. Amen

It's so true.

2011-03-15T12:03:00.000-07:00

BizzieMommy posted a few days ago about the raw deal loyal AT&T customers are getting concerning service. I read her posts then went online to see what kind of situation I'm in because I've been with AT&T since it was SBC Global! Below is the transcript of my chat with Customer Service.

"Thank you for your patience! An AT&T sales representative will be with you shortly.
You are now chatting with Michael, an AT&T sales representative.
Michael: Welcome to AT&T online Feature Sales. How may I assist you with your features today?
Stacey: I was just checking out my data plan against one that was mentioned on a blog.
Michael: Sorry not sure what you mean?
Stacey: She basically said if we have unlimited data bundle we can't tether so I was just checking
Stacey: Seems to be true.
Michael: I am sorry but that is not true.
Stacey: So If I want to tether I can keep my unlimited smartphone bundle but then I have to pay $45 a month to tether?
Michael: No you can.
Michael: Sorry, can not.
Michael: If you change to the $45.00 data pro with tethering your unlimited data plan will be removed.
Michael: And you would not be able to change back to it.
Stacey: That's what was mentioned on the blog and I couldn't believe it so I had to check for myself.
Stacey: Thank you. You've answered all my questions
Michael: You're very welcome.
Michael: While you're online today, what else can I help you with?
Stacey: I'm find for now. I think my plan that I have now is still in effect for a while longer....oh..when it's time to renew will I be able to keep my unlimited data plan or do I need to start shopping around.
Michael: Yes you can keep that if you upgrade to another smart phone or iPhone device.
Stacey: okay. Thank you very much. Have a great day Michael"

Michael was very polite.

31 Days

2011-03-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of Tou Touke

It's March! March has 31 days and the book of Proverbs has 31 chapters. Read with me everyone!

Not in the Bible

2011-02-08T10:57:00.000-08:00

I've been thumbing through You Mean That Isn't in the Bible by David A Rich. In the book David discusses 10 popular beliefs that simply aren't true (the subtitle of the book). The one I was most surprised to find listed was "God helps those who help themselves". It's just not in the Bible, but many people make this statement as fact. I'd heard it all my life and believed it.

Photo courtesy of Enrico Maria

I thought it meant that you can't just wait around for help and not only that, but you shouldn't ask for help. The person who can take care of their problems by themselves is a virtuous righteous person...or so I thought but it's just not true.

We as humans created in the image of God crave relationships. A healthy loving relationship allows us to lean on others and especially God. We should cry out to God first when we are in trouble. Slowly I'm learning that no problem is too small for God.
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. NIV

Typically when something throws me off balance the first thought I have is "What am I going to do now?" Feel free to imagine a whining tone it would be correct. Then I go about trying to fix what is wrong. I make phone calls, research on the internet, ask friends for advice, etc but very seldom do I remember to stop, pray and ask God for a solution and then wait for him to reveal his solution to me.

Galatians 6:2 Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. ESV
I'm not typically a private person but my whole life isn't an open book either. I don't think anyone wants to share with someone else when they're hurting, frightened or discouraged. During those times when I do remember to ask God for help, he reminds me to seek comfort and assistance from my brothers and sisters in Christ. This I think helps me in two ways. First, it humbles me. It forces me to let others know that I need help and I can't handle EVERYTHING on my own. Second, it allows me to give others the opportunity to obey God.

I Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. NIV

Real Christians

2011-01-05T18:07:00.000-08:00

When I was a baby christian I was listening to Todd Friel back when he was was on Way of the Master. He was telling a story of how he went to a service once without a bible. The minister as he started his message told everyone to open their Bibles and if someone did not have a bible they should slide over on the pew next to a REAL christian. Todd remarked that after that he never went anywhere without his bible.

That story had a great impact on me. I will confess that I carry a small bible in my purse. It's a little purple FaithGirlz bible and it's wonderful for keeping up on reading, if I'm stuck waiting somewhere or for a quick reference....I used to take great pride (goes before destruction) that I a1ways had my Bible with me.
I also knew that real Christians read their Bible daily. Well even though I had a Bible with me always I wasn't reading it. Too many distractions. TV, computer, housework. I felt so guilty about not reading my Bible. I agonized about it...or if I did read in the back of my mind there was self talk that went like this..."So you're reading...you'll never memorize any of those verses"..."You've only got time to read for about 10-15 minutes tops...why even bother"..."Reading during your lunch break doesn't count...Real quiet time with the Lord is first thing in the morning, while you're alone, in the quiet"

As I've grown I now realize Bible in my purse or no Bible..it's all about God's word in my heart.
Beating myself up and negative self-talk is just want the evil one wants. Daily bible reading has been one of the hardest Christian disciplines for me but I'm getting stronger each day...

What about you? Did you have ideas about what made a perfect Christian?

My Graduates

2010-07-07T19:14:00.000-07:00

Malachai

Look at him. I can't believe that just 13 short years ago this was Malachai on his first day of Kindergarten.

So after.....

numerous broken fingers (eventually the ER Nurse just sent me home with finger splints and tape to save me a trip)
1 broken arm
1 ugly leg scar (ER dr called it a zipper)
1 broken collarbone
and a black eye that I didn't notice

Malachai walked across the stage picking up his empty diploma cover. Apparently you can't give them their diploma or they'll misbehave. It's sad I think.

Mike

This is the only cap and gown photo of Mike I have because.........

right after the ceremony he raced home to change for Project Graduation.

When Mike came from Massachusetts to live with us it was an adventure. Two teenage boys under the same roof (Yikes!)
Mike can be so independent and when he has a passion for something he really goes all out.
Mike is...

a very good guitarist
has a very uncanny way of putting together Geotrax train sets. He can do it without a plan and never makes a one way loop.
taught his 3 year old baby brother to ride a two-wheeler WITHOUT training wheels
tried to teach his baby brother how to play guitar ( 4 year olds have short attention spans...who knew?)

Gives his brother rides.

Helps me carry in groceries without being asked.
Is a great person

Samuel

Only 12 more years until high school graduation. I'll be 55 years old.

12 More Days....

2010-06-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

and Samuel will be home!
What was I thinking sending my little guy so far away from home? What am I supposed to do with my evenings now! That's what I asked my mother before she and Samuel left for SC. Mom being wise as most moms are told me to do those things that I couldn't or wouldn't do with Samuel around. I thought to myself. "That's great advice!" So in the past 9 days I've....

woke up early to walk (still got that baby weight to lose..don't ask)
Mike and I have gotten take out just about every night.
Slept in (8am) this past weekend. That was nice.
Managed to finish 2 magazines cover to cover (without interruption).

I'm sure there will be more stuff but it just feels weird..no baths to give, bedtime stories to read, waking up in the middle of the night to make him go pee so he doesn't wet the bed. Ah...good times.

I want my baby back....like I said. 12 more days.

Coming up fast

2010-06-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

My baby is graduating from high school in a few days and then he plans to join the Navy. I actually had a mini panic attack the other night as I realized there will be a day when he doesn't live at home anymore. Where have the years gone?
When he was little we all were sure Mal was going to be a vet or work in a zoo. He had such an interest and passion for animals or rather I should say mammals. He wasn't very interested in insects, reptiles or marine life.
I must admit I worry about my baby. You didn't hear it from me but Mal is a bit of a follower I think. That by itself isn't bad as long as you follow the right people.
His greatest quality I believe is that he is very kind and considerate of others. I'll never forget. One day we were in Walmart and a lady knocked into a display and everything fell to the floor. Mal looked over and said. "Mom, I'm going to go help her with that. " He walked over and helped the lady pick up all the items that dropped. I remember wanting to shout "That's my son over there helping out a stranger!" I was so proud. Malachai is also very good with young children. I watch him with his little brother and he amazes me how he can get Samuel to understand almost anything. He just seems go "get" little kids and has lots of patience too.

My prayer for Malachai is:
1. He will accept the Lord Jesus Christ as his saviour and live his life for him.
2. Everything else will be just great.

If you ever want to know....

2010-03-14T19:14:00.000-07:00

How your child sees the world. Let them loose with a camera. Here's some photos Samuel took about a year ago. I just got around to downloading them from his Fisher-Price camera.

Menu Plan Week of March 1st

2010-03-01T19:58:00.001-08:00

This will be my second week planning a menu for the family. I really only plan for the work week and “wing it” on the weekends. I don’t walk through the door most nights until 6:30pm so I like planning and my crockpot of course.

Monday – Hubby’s Bison Chili

Tuesday – Dump Chicken, Rice, Broccoli

Wednesday – Pork Chops, Mac n Cheese, Corn

Thursday – Chuck Roast, Potatoes, Rice

Friday – Take out

A New Blog to Obsess Over

2010-02-24T13:44:00.000-08:00

I've found a new blog that I'm really enjoying.

Ana of Knock Off Wood has FREE plans of furniture that is simple to build with just 7 tools. Her blog has plans, how-tos and even a bragging board where readers post their own projects.
I'm not ambitious and right now it's way too cold to spend time in my hubby's workshop so I think my first project will be this one. Clip Art Rails

Why Don't I Feel Anything

2010-01-11T16:30:00.000-08:00

Growing up in church I saw lots of emotions surrounding those who followed Christ. During services there were tears, shouting, lifted arms, and all that stuff. When I became a Christian I expected this great outpouring of emotion that I'd seen but it never came. So I didn't feel like a Christian for a long time, but in my Bible I read repeatedly that belief is what is required.

Belief and Feeling are not the same thing.

Feeling (noun): an emotional state or reaction
Belief (noun): conviction of truth or some statement or the reality of some being or phenomenon especially when based on examination of evidence
or another definition - a state or habit of mind in which trust or confidence is placed in some person or thing.
Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Romans 10:10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved

So with that information I now know that I'm a Christian because I believe!

Blizzard of 2009

2009-12-29T20:15:00.000-08:00

The Blizzard of 2009 hit Connecticut on December 19th. Winter Storm Albert arrived in my neck of the woods around 8pm and didn't stop dumping fluffy snow until Sunday afternoon. Below are a few pictures.

The back steps...

Mike's Mustang....

Sammy...

Looks like hard work but he's having a ball...

I spent some time shoveling...I knew I wasn't really going to be able to clear much but I was able to uncover my car so I could get out to the store to pick up Malachai's birthday cake.

Yes I realize his name is spelled wrong. But hey they knocked $6 off the price of the cake because of it. Oh...it gets better. I thought I had candles at home but I didn't so I had to jury rig a zero and a five to make a one and a seven. Poor Mal had such a messed up cake but you know he never complained. Not once.

Happy Birthday my dear firstborn...

Organizing Blog Junkie

2009-12-27T20:02:00.001-08:00

Yes, I'm an organizing blog junkie! I love reading about how to tame clutter and how much housework I can do in 15 minutes. I especially love to look at photo journals of cleverly organized desks, pantries, closets and laundry rooms.

I read these blogs and say to myself....this sounds simple but I rarely follow any of the suggestions do you know why?

1. Whether or not I love it or use it regularly I find it very hard to throw things away. I'm one of those "what if I need it again" people. You know you always need it right after you throw it out.

2. Everything doesn't have a home....probably because I won't throw anything away. It's hard to clear counters, tables or desks when there isn't a definite place to put things....I know throw stuff away.

3. The one thing that does work is the lists of "Things you can do in 15 minutes". I have found that in 15 minutes I really can.

- vacuum the living room (if there are not toys strewn all over the floor)
- disinfect the counter tops (after I move the crock pot and other small appliances that live on the counter,very little cabinet space)
-sweep the kitchen floor
-scrub toilets
-fold laundry (easy...it's putting it away that takes days).

All in all I think I like to live vicariously through these women who have it all together. My favorites are:
-Laura @ I'm an Organizing Junkie
-Aby @ Creative Organizing
Lara @The Lazy Organizer

Preview love?

2009-12-23T15:43:00.000-08:00

I've been considering going through The Love Dare after the first of the year. My husband is not yet a Christian and I feel the Lord urging me to be more proactive concerning our relationship. I need to love him more and I know this exercise will help me focus on that.
I went to Borders and flipped through the book. I found myself previewing the devotionals wondering if I was willing to do all the exercises in the book. While flipping through I thought to myself...".what are you doing? Are you really considering not going through this challenge if some of the exercises are too hard or distasteful to you in some way?" I was actually ashamed of myself. If it were easy they wouldn't call it a challenge, would they.
After I got home I remembered a sermon I'd heard on Familynet radio where the pastor posed the question "Are you willing to do what God asks without reservation or do you need to know all the details BEFORE you decide to do what is asked?
That night I prayed that I would wholeheartedly embrace the 40 day challenge. I will even endeavor not to read ahead but focus on each day's challenge before moving on the next day.

Has anyone else gone through The Love Dare? Any suggestions for someone embarking on this journey?

A Heart That Forgives - Kevin Levar

2009-11-20T13:09:00.000-08:00

Just allow this song to minister to your soul.

I Blew It

2009-08-13T06:41:00.001-07:00

I've had some financial difficulties lately. They have me stressed out but I'm trying to get better at leaning on God.
There's a mix up with my paycheck this pay period and when I found out about it I immediately panicked and stayed in that panic state for a while. I shuffled around thinking how I might fix my problem then as I was getting into the car this morning it hit me. I hadn't prayed about my situation yet. How could I forget to do that? Why didn't I do that first? Immediately I said a quick prayer. I now feel a peace.

Dear Lord....Please forgive me when I forget to rely on you. Forgive me when I try to "do it all myself" I thank you for your provision for me. Amen.

2009-08-05T14:46:00.000-07:00

"Be merciful to me Lord, for I am faint; O Lord, heal me, for my bones are in agony." Psalm 6:2 (NIV)

If I would have had knowledge of this verse this past Sunday this would have been what I would have prayed but instead I simply prayed "Help me God. Please help me. I want to die!"

Have you every had a migraine headache? I had my first when I was 23 or 24. I'd never heard of migraines before so when I woke up with my head hurting so badly I thought I must have a tumor or something and I'm dying. As a matter of fact I called my husband at work and told him. "You have to come home right now. I'm dying." I'm not kidding. That's what I said. Within minutes he was home. When he came in I was in a heap on the floor. He immediately knew what was wrong and closed all the blinds and put me in bed. The movement of the bed made my nausea worse so I moved to the floor. It was hours before I got relief. Any meds he tried to give me I couldn't keep down so I just lay as still as possible and waited. Unfortunately, that was not my last experience with migraine.

My mom doesn't get them and so she asks me what if feels like. I told her I wouldn't wish this kind of pain on anyone. If there were a gun on the table I'd be tempted to blow my head off. The pain is so bad you can't think about anything else. The pounding and the nausea are exhausting. Every sound makes your head feel like it's going to explode. When it's all over you're spent.

I don't have as many migraines as I used to. I've learned my triggers so if I'm careful about what I eat and I proactive with my meds when I know the weather is going to be stormy I'm OK but I'm learning that I must be much more vigilant because

MSG IS EVERYWHERE

Ok, It's not really everywhere but it's in places I never thought to look and I found out it's lurking in one of my most favorite snacks. Lays Kettle Cooked Mesquite BBQ flavored chips.

I can safely have a handful or maybe two but Saturday night I think I ate close to half the bag (yes I know I'm supposed to be watching my cholesterol and dieting) . So that's why I woke with a migraine Sunday morning.

It was a pathetic sight really. I couldn't even lay down because my head hurt worse. My 4 year old was sleeping over so I sat up in his bed (it's close to the bathroom) and tried to be as still as possible. The slightest movement would send me running for the bathroom. Sweat was pouring form my forehead...everywhere really. I couldn't keep medicine down. I whispered. "God help me. Help me please"

I waited and I'm not sure when but I did realize that my head wasn't pounding and that my stomach felt better. I gingerly slid down to put my head on the pillow. Ahhhh......relief. I prayed "Thank you, God. Thank you so much for taking my headache away. You take such good care of me. Thank you...Amen" I closed my eyes and went to sleep. I've been relaying this story to everyone who will listen ever since.

God answers prayers!

Crying

2009-07-23T12:42:00.000-07:00

" Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray." Psalm 5:2 (NIV)

"In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears." Psalm 18:6 (NIV)

"I cry out to God Most High, to God, who fulfills {his purpose} for me."Psalm 57:2

The other day I was so stressed out. As I sat alone, my circumstances came to the forefront of my mind and I suddenly felt overwhelmed. Karen at Living LIfe in God's Truth and Grace had listed a tweet that morning featuring 2 Peter 1:3. I read it and felt a little better but my circumstances made me weepy all day. I had problems concentrating. I fought back tears all day, everytime my situation came to my mind. I couldn't wait for the work day to end so I could go home. Perhaps a little nap would be all I'd need to set everything right.

I got home and told my husband that I needed a nap and then went upstairs. As soon as I entered the room I shut the door and intended to lie on the bed but instead I ended up on my knees and wept. I was bawling and sobbing and crying out for God to help me. I wanted him to make me feel better. I wanted him to "fix" it and make it "better". As I cried I felt as though I were curled up in the Lord's lap telling him all my troubles. Afterward I was exhausted, I climbed onto the bed but couldn't close my eyes and sleep. I lay in the quiet listening. I wanted God to talk to me. I didn't hear anything but I still felt very calm.

I'm so glad we can literally cry out to God when we are troubled. I'm so thankful that he listens.

He's always listening. He's always there.

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-23T12:39:00.000-07:00

I am thankful today for God's patience! I have so much to learn and it seems to be taking such a long time but God is faithful and patient.

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-16T06:14:00.000-07:00

So It's Thursday again and I'm sitting here feeling so full of love and blessing. I am so thankful that my husband and I can get together with family and friends frequently. Our children have their cousins close by for fun. We all might not agree all the time but we always know we can count on each other. I am so happy when we get together for impromptu potlucks and sit up into the night enjoying each other's company. I'm thankful for family.

Romans 8:28 New Mantra

2009-07-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." (NLT)

I think this needs to become my new mantra for awhile.

I seem to be so focused on circumstances that there are times I forget that God has everything in control and I just need to trust him.

I must admit that there are times when the pile of bills on my desk, my aches and pains, everyday drama that comes with raising teenagers and everything else seems to easily come to the front of mind. I must push all that aside and I stop and close my eyes and say "God, you are in control." Also at that moment I begin to count my blessings. I can't focus on the negative when I'm praising God for cool days and evenings that have made it unnecessary to turn on the air conditioner (lowering my electric bill); or a picture on the wall of my cubicle drawn in bright Crayola colors by my 4 year old. Daily I thank God that I have my job. So many associates have been laid off and I actually found myself sitting at my desk praying for those around me who were leaving. "Lord, be with my co-workers please. Let them know you are God. Comfort them and watch over them and their families Lord. Amen" This is what I prayed.

Do you sometimes let focusing on your circumstances get in the way? If I'm not alone what do you do to help you refocus?

Late Memory Monday

2009-07-14T06:46:00.000-07:00

So I did spend the week attempting to memorize a few verses but I didn't finish it. I intended to learn Ephesians 6:13-17 but did not make it all the way through. I will work on the other part this week so here it goes

Ephesians 6:13-14
"So put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes you will be able to stand. When you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then with the belt of truth buckled around your waist and the breastplate of righteousnes in place"

Okay so now I've looked at my Bible and I did miss a few words but I don't think I did too badly.

2009-07-09T10:04:00.000-07:00

Praising God "makes my heart want to sing". I am thankful for my healthy ,loving sons.

Memory Monday - Philippians 4:6-7

2009-07-06T12:56:00.000-07:00

Do not worry about anything ; instead pray about everything. Ask God for what you need and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)

I think I did that one right from memory. I might have gotten a word turned around. Oh yes..it should be "Tell God what you need...."

For the upcoming week I'd like to learn Ephesians6 6:13-20 The "Armor of God" verses. I really need to learn those by heart so I can use them each day.

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

I thank the Lord that I have the privilege to come to him in prayer.

I thank the Lord for a roof over my head, food to eat, and a job.

I thank the Lord for other Christians who are constantly praying.

Wisdom is Sweet to your Soul

2009-06-29T13:13:00.000-07:00

"Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul; if you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off" Proverbs 24:14 (NIV)

I want to be wise. The Bible says if you want wisdom ask the Lord for wisdom. So I ask but I sometimes feel like I ask because I know that wisdom is something I should want but I think I'm fearful that if I get wisdom, what will I be expected to so with it. It frightens me that wisdom given by the Lord is so power and I know I'll be expected to do great things with it for the kingdom but sometime...ok...maybe most of the time I just want to sit in my little christian cubby and soak up the blessings and spend my time worshipping and learning.

I understand that if you fear something your fears can be quieted by learning so that's what I'm going to do. I'm going to research about wisdom and what God expects us to do with it. Do you think that might be too big of a task for a newbie like me?

Assurance of Salvation - Am I Saved?

2009-06-26T12:34:00.000-07:00

"Salvation happens at a moment in time but it is demonstrated over time" from Dr. James McDonald's message "Are You Saved?"

Any message about the assurance of salvation I listen to very carefully.

I used to believe that the reason I examine my relationship with Christ so frequently is because I am not sure of my salvation. However, as I read my Bible I've learned that 2 Corinthians 13:5 tells us " Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you[a]; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith. " (NLT)

So I look for evidence in my life that I am a disciple.
John 8:31-32 31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” [emphasis mine]

You are saved if you believe in Jesus and all that he is. - Recognize that Jesus is the only way to Salvation. Believe that he is the Son of God and he died for our sins, was buried and resurrected.
You are saved if you abide in Jesus' words - develop a desire to read and understand the Bible.
You are saved if you know the truth. Knowing the truth makes us live for and serve Christ. Knowing the truth changes a true Christian. More confident in God. More loving. More humble.
You are saved when you are free. Free from sin.

So the next question after "Are you saved?" is "How do you know?"

If I examine the evidence in my life I realize that I am not the person I once was. I want to do the right thing although I might not always do the right thing.

I must admit that I don't do things like calling in sick when I'm not all that sick (lying) or take an extra newspaper from the newspaper dispenser (stealing) anymore. Little changes like that in my opinion, add up to great changes in a person that others notice.

Are you a newbie too?

2009-06-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

I've been a committed believer in Christ for just over 2 years and I'm a newbie. I consider myself a newbie not just because of the amount of time I've been in the family of the Lord but because:

I still can't find some books in my Bible without looking in the table of contents

I get a lump in my throat every time I say "Yes, I'm a Christian."

I struggle with prayer, my walk, talk and work for Christ

I'm still so enjoying the milk of the word and want to be fed daily. I struggle with how to feed myself and what to feed myself

But I'm growing just like you're growing in the Lord. That's what's important!

Welcome

2009-06-23T19:01:00.000-07:00

I'm a new Christian. I recommitted my life to Christ about 2 years ago. I say about because I don't have the exact date but although I don't know the exact date I can remember every detail about that moment. Of course I remember...my life changed forever from that minute on and I have never looked back. The Lord Jesus Christ offers salvation to all of us and all we must do is receive the free gift of life he offers. So after I received this gift I must admit for a day or two, I was actually numb. I have talked to others who describe how they were so blissful and happy and filled for joy. I think I was very solemn. I took a long time coming to the Lord and spent time reflecting on the changes and the cost of my new relationship with the Lord.

My mom, in SC and younger brother, in Texas, who were already believers were very happy that I had come into the family of God but at home, I am the only believer and I knew what a challenge that would be in my life. Actually that challenge was the thing that kept me from coming to the Lord years ago when I first heard his voice calling me. So what changed you might wonder....

About 3 years ago my mother gave my son a few books that were from the Left Behind: The Kids series by Tim Lahaye and Jerry B Jenkins. I discovered soon after that there were books for adults too and I read the entire series. While I read I admired those tribulation saints who were giving it all for Christ in the most terrible of circumstances but realized I did not want to be a tribulation saint. I asked a friend at work where she went to church and she invited me and I started going to church.

I liked the church. Everyone seemed so sincere and the messages on Sunday morning seemed applicable to my life. It didn't hurt that they had a very active youth program either. At the time I believed every person in service was a believer and I was so afraid that it would be found out that I was not. Well in childhood I had been to church A LOT. I knew all the catchphrases and idioms. I could talk church with the best. I knew all the songs and even had verses highlighted in my bible.

At some point I felt the love of God touch my heart or rather speak to my mind and I didn't want to be a pretender any longer.

One Sunday after service I asked to speak to someone and I told her how I'd done many alter calls and had several "conversions" but none of them had really took. I was ready for a real conversion.

Since my conversion I've been collecting books and other resources to help me grow. Every once in a while something I've been studying clicks and I get it and I'm so excited I want to share it with other newbies. I figure we can all learn together.