When you share what you know...
1. You teach
2. You encourage
3. You motivate
4. You inspire
5. You help
6. You give peace
7. You give understanding
8. You promote oneness
9. You are generous
10. You make yourself vulnerable
11. You mentor
12. You bless
13. You give wisdom
14. You help prevent problems
15. You show the way
16. You lead
17. You comfort
18. You give insight
19. You calm fears
20. You _________________.
I was blessed this week by a group of homeschool moms that made time to get together and share what they know about teaching and parenting. I can't tell you everything I gained....so much more than I imagined...even to some degree so much more than I can even completely comprehend. I'm still sorting through the wealth of advice, encouragement, curriculum and ideas that we exchanged. I'm beginning my 8th year of homeschool and find myself still needing the blessing of friends who walk this road too.
Whether you homeschool or not isn't really the point of this post...It's sharing what you know. When we are selfish and keep what we know a secret for whatever reason, we rob others of the wisdom God has given us through our own life experiences. You never know who will hear your story and be inspired and motivated. Let's be a people that is eager to share with those around you. Stingy people don't get nearly the satisfaction and fulfillment that generous people do.
Be generous. Share.
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Weekend Wrap Up
This week has been much less intense than last. Maybe it was that it started with Memorial Day. Bruce enjoyed the day off by installing our latest QVC find....an air conditioner for the den. He had some help from one of the handymen at church and his son. At first I was skeptical about their skills, since the words "I think we made a wrong cut" were uttered, it took two trips to a friends house to cut one of the pieces, and there were lots of groans...and they actually got the directions out and read them. BUT, after all that, they did manage to get it installed and now we are nice and cool in the den.
We spent part of our day Sunday and Monday taking care of a couple of cool boys while their parents were out of town. This was a thrill for Tucker...Savannah managed to find a way to stay away most of the time the guys were here...typical yucky boy aversion. Before 9am Monday morning we had a sink full of water balloons and it was war.
By midweek, I think the last 12 days of house overhaul hit me. I needed a V-8 or some chocolate or at the very least, a diet coke. I did manage to make an amazing (Bruce's word) roast in the crock-pot on Tuesday. In fact it might have secured my status as a stay at home wife/mom for the rest of my life.
In the middle of the house overhaul I ended up with a couple of piles. You know, the ones where you know you need to find a place and space for the items but your just not quite sure where that will be? Well I had been putting off doing that but finally on Thursday decided that no one was going to do it for me, so in just a matter of minutes I had those taken care of. Makes me wonder why I procrastinated so much.
So, all in all, a pretty uneventful week. Thankfully. I think my body needed it!
 |
| Real Men Read Directions |
By midweek, I think the last 12 days of house overhaul hit me. I needed a V-8 or some chocolate or at the very least, a diet coke. I did manage to make an amazing (Bruce's word) roast in the crock-pot on Tuesday. In fact it might have secured my status as a stay at home wife/mom for the rest of my life.
In the middle of the house overhaul I ended up with a couple of piles. You know, the ones where you know you need to find a place and space for the items but your just not quite sure where that will be? Well I had been putting off doing that but finally on Thursday decided that no one was going to do it for me, so in just a matter of minutes I had those taken care of. Makes me wonder why I procrastinated so much.
So, all in all, a pretty uneventful week. Thankfully. I think my body needed it!
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Weekend Wrap Up
This week started with attending the funeral of a godly grandmother of one of the ladies in our church. Monday I sat and listened as this godly grandmother was memorialized. What a blessing to hear of someone who honored the Lord with her life. What a comfort to her family!
There was more cleaning out...overhauling...mopping...sweeping...scrubbing as I managed to finish deep cleaning the house. There are a few remaining piles to go through and several tiny jobs still to be done but for the most part, there's not an inch of the house that hasn't had a good cleaning.
In the cleaning out, Tucker and I came across his coveralls from just 2 years ago....
I also had a little time to start this little book...by Thom Ranier, President of Lifeway. So far, it's the best explanation and teaching book on church membership. He delves into all the uncomfortable churchy issues with biblical perspective. I'm loving it so far.
These girls twisted my arm and made me take them to Dairy Queen before church Wednesday Night
And...last but not least....friends are getting married today...Love is in the air...
There was more cleaning out...overhauling...mopping...sweeping...scrubbing as I managed to finish deep cleaning the house. There are a few remaining piles to go through and several tiny jobs still to be done but for the most part, there's not an inch of the house that hasn't had a good cleaning.
 |
| I have a slight addiction to sharpie markers...please don't judge |
In the cleaning out, Tucker and I came across his coveralls from just 2 years ago....
 |
| Is he allowed to grow this much in just 18 months? |
These girls twisted my arm and made me take them to Dairy Queen before church Wednesday Night
 |
| Lizzie and Savannah....Can I freeze time here too??? |
Monday, August 20, 2012
The New 30
I've heard it said a million (ok, maybe not that many) times over the last year "40 is the new 30"...and in my near dread of facing the big 4-0 I was trying to convince myself that this was the case. However, I've been reading "The Resolution For Women" and the first chapter is all about embracing the moment you are in now and not wishing for a better time, a more stable time, a healthier time or a more profitable time. As I neared my birthday I had resolved that I would tackle this year with more contentment. Thankfulness for where God has brought me, that His grace will be just as sufficient for these days as the last. Contentment for those moments when I am sorely dissatisfied and markedly unthankful. And joy for this moment in the history of my life. And just when I thought things couldn't get any better...my friends showed up.
Yes..and my Dr. (who ordered me to stay in the wheel chair all night long)
These crazy girls along with 45 or so of the ladies in the church showed up to give me a really special welcome into the 4th decade of my life. Here's a glimpse into the evening:
We played some games....including "Are you smarter than a first grader". And there was poetry and music from the 70's.
I was given some charming accessories...what girl doesn't like that?!
Lasagna and all the sides were served
And of course...cake
And a very special devotion on the faithfulness of God.
Then this company of godly ladies gathered around and said a prayer over me. And that perhaps, was the best gift of all...That you are loved enough to be taken to the feet of Jesus and prayed over is a gift that I'll never forget. How blessed am I?
And one of my favorite parts of the party was when they told me what my "real" gift was...
They had all brought food to donate to our food pantry at church! This was such a thoughtful gift...knowing that our food pantry is so close to my heart.
So, thanks Ladies of CBC. You made turning the new 30 easier than I could have ever imagined! I know lots of hard work and effort went into making it a night I will never forget! I think you successfully accomplished that!
Monday, January 2, 2012
Close to Heaven
It was 3:40pm on Sunday afternoon and our phone rang. A sweet elderly man on the brink of heaven is on the other end of the line. His family is huddled around him. They've released him. They know heaven is just a few breaths away. Yet, this man...just steps from the valley of the shadow of death wants to talk to Bruce. It's been 5 years since they've sat and talked. 5 years since they've shared a coke in his den. 5 years since Bruce was his pastor.
And what I hear from another room...the sweet prayer of a friend for a friend who is on the doorstep of the kingdom of heaven...what may only be moments from being in the presence of our Lord....the sweet prayer of a friend for his friend...although older and in many ways probably wiser...this special unforgettable friendship. What an honor for one to pray the other into eternity. Whether it is moments or hours or days...only the heavenly father knows. What we do know is this man will walk with Jesus soon. His life speaks volumes of the type of man he is. His death will speak that same wonderful story.
To pray for someone that close to heaven seems a privilege. To know that person finds peace knowing that you are interceding on their behalf...Certainly it is nothing of Bruce's doing that will get this gentleman into heaven any differently than every other person on the planet. It's all grace. God's grace. It's a comfort to everyone to know our friend has received that grace. The saving kind.
Have you experienced that kind of grace?
And what I hear from another room...the sweet prayer of a friend for a friend who is on the doorstep of the kingdom of heaven...what may only be moments from being in the presence of our Lord....the sweet prayer of a friend for his friend...although older and in many ways probably wiser...this special unforgettable friendship. What an honor for one to pray the other into eternity. Whether it is moments or hours or days...only the heavenly father knows. What we do know is this man will walk with Jesus soon. His life speaks volumes of the type of man he is. His death will speak that same wonderful story.
To pray for someone that close to heaven seems a privilege. To know that person finds peace knowing that you are interceding on their behalf...Certainly it is nothing of Bruce's doing that will get this gentleman into heaven any differently than every other person on the planet. It's all grace. God's grace. It's a comfort to everyone to know our friend has received that grace. The saving kind.
Have you experienced that kind of grace?
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Empty Words
I've got nothing to say.
And instead of boring you with empty words that mean absolutely nothing I've been staring at the empty computer page wishing that I had something to share. I've got 8 posts that are waiting to be posted...but all seem so ...empty. It's been bothering me. In three years of blogging it's never been like this. Nothing...nada....zero.....zilch....empty.
Funny thing is that I believe this is right where God wants me right now. Empty....totally dependant on HIM to give me the words to say....the direction to go.....the answers to life's daily questions. At first I struggled against this....I like answers...maps....words....but God doesn't always give those.....sometimes He says trust me....my timing....all of Me. And as I was reminded yesterday by an iron woman (that's what I'm calling those iron sharpens iron friends I have now....although I am pretty sure she'd like you to think she can powerlift 500lbs!)....I don't need to know....I don't need to have the answer....I don't need to feel ready or able....I just need to trust God to give me whatever it is I need when the time is right.
So maybe sharing His Words for me might encourage you....if so then the silence has been worth it....
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matt. 6
Friday, May 27, 2011
Storm Watching
The weather in the Midwest has been crazy scary lately -Tornadoes, flooding, damaging winds and thunder - all keeping us glued to the weather channel or local news late into the evening a couple of nights recently. Between our local meteorologist and the national weather service we've been kept "in the know" and are safe and sound.
I was thinking of some of our friends from previous ministries and current ones that have experienced some "storms" lately...2 family friends experienced the horrific tornadoes and reside in Joplin, MO, 1 other family had a house fire and lost all their earthy possessions, countless numbers of people are experiencing the tough economic challenges....seems like everyday the storms keep coming.
But just like the expertise of a weather meteorologist God doesn't leave us to weather the storms alone. He's given us His Word to navigate during bad weather. The Bible gives us prime, experienced examples of people who have walked through the storms of life and come out stronger, better, faithful. Think about Job, Daniel, Paul, Rahab and others, who when facing a storm put their faith to the test and experienced that peace that passes all earthly understanding....embracing in the dark, what they knew to be true in the light.
It's just a matter of time before any of us encounter our next storm, Christ the ultimate Storm Tracker says....in this world we will have trouble. (And of course we know he experienced that trouble first hand.....)Thankfully he also is the One who has overcome the world.
Praying and praising with friends through this storm.....
I was thinking of some of our friends from previous ministries and current ones that have experienced some "storms" lately...2 family friends experienced the horrific tornadoes and reside in Joplin, MO, 1 other family had a house fire and lost all their earthy possessions, countless numbers of people are experiencing the tough economic challenges....seems like everyday the storms keep coming.
But just like the expertise of a weather meteorologist God doesn't leave us to weather the storms alone. He's given us His Word to navigate during bad weather. The Bible gives us prime, experienced examples of people who have walked through the storms of life and come out stronger, better, faithful. Think about Job, Daniel, Paul, Rahab and others, who when facing a storm put their faith to the test and experienced that peace that passes all earthly understanding....embracing in the dark, what they knew to be true in the light.
It's just a matter of time before any of us encounter our next storm, Christ the ultimate Storm Tracker says....in this world we will have trouble. (And of course we know he experienced that trouble first hand.....)Thankfully he also is the One who has overcome the world.
Praying and praising with friends through this storm.....
Sunday, May 15, 2011
True Blue
Sometimes you need someone to call something what it is....a spade a spade. Sometimes you need someone to be real enough with you to point out your faults...to tell you when you are off base....when you've lost you're marbles....when you've gone too far....when you've blown it...when you've got spinach between your teeth...and yes, even when you're wrong!!!
These are the true blue friends in my life. Those few people who I trust love me enough to see way past all the flaws in my life and see the person God is molding me into. They see past my insecurities, my appearance, my dirty house, my dirty blond roots, my bargain flip flops and they see the real deal. The wanna be God girl who is always one step behind where she really wants to be.
And this week, one of those girlfriends called a spade a spade. She accused me of being an enabler. WHAT?!?!?!
And she was right. Ouch!!!
And I knew it as soon as she said it. And I said "Thank you".
Thank you for not letting me get away with it. Thank you for loving me enough to know my heart...but also know it was wrong. Thank you for doing the hard stuff and calling me out. Thank you for sharpening me and getting me to think passed a temporary moment of what I confused to be "good" and waking me up to the reality that I cannot protect everyone I know. Thank you for being confident enough in our relationship that you could trust that I would "hear" you. Thank you for helping me grow.
That's a true blue friend to me. I've got a couple and I wouldn't trade them for all the chocolate and diet coke in the world. They are the best examples of what it means to truly love one another. It's easy to be friends with someone who will always take your side or hear your opinions, but the hard stuff is when you go through things that are messy and you sharpen each other with God's Word....because really...who else's words really matter anyway.
Sometimes when we are sharpening each other it can hurt at first, but in the end, the refining friction that happens during that sharpening will create something more beautiful if we are pliable and willing to hear and apply those lessons of love from people who truly care.
Do you have a friend who sharpens you?
These are the true blue friends in my life. Those few people who I trust love me enough to see way past all the flaws in my life and see the person God is molding me into. They see past my insecurities, my appearance, my dirty house, my dirty blond roots, my bargain flip flops and they see the real deal. The wanna be God girl who is always one step behind where she really wants to be.
And this week, one of those girlfriends called a spade a spade. She accused me of being an enabler. WHAT?!?!?!
And she was right. Ouch!!!
And I knew it as soon as she said it. And I said "Thank you".
Thank you for not letting me get away with it. Thank you for loving me enough to know my heart...but also know it was wrong. Thank you for doing the hard stuff and calling me out. Thank you for sharpening me and getting me to think passed a temporary moment of what I confused to be "good" and waking me up to the reality that I cannot protect everyone I know. Thank you for being confident enough in our relationship that you could trust that I would "hear" you. Thank you for helping me grow.
That's a true blue friend to me. I've got a couple and I wouldn't trade them for all the chocolate and diet coke in the world. They are the best examples of what it means to truly love one another. It's easy to be friends with someone who will always take your side or hear your opinions, but the hard stuff is when you go through things that are messy and you sharpen each other with God's Word....because really...who else's words really matter anyway.
Sometimes when we are sharpening each other it can hurt at first, but in the end, the refining friction that happens during that sharpening will create something more beautiful if we are pliable and willing to hear and apply those lessons of love from people who truly care.
Do you have a friend who sharpens you?
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Sacrifice
Getting to know missionaries is a great way to get to know about sacrifice. These beautiful people may get spoiled for a week at our church, but when they get to or return to their various fields the real sacrifice begins....and even though it's honorable and right for us to take good care of them while they are with us in our conference this week, somehow, I wonder if it is even more important for us to be in continual remembrance and prayer and support of them when they are actually in the thick of the sacrifice.
I was talking with one of our missions moms and tears filled her eyes as she talked of her children growing up so far from family. The joys of that close grandparent relationship that most families enjoy won't come easy for them. That's a sacrifice. Another friend of mine who is a missionary rejoices every time she can find a jar of peanut butter at her local grocers. Even though that seems almost comical, how many of us would be willing to forgo the little conveniences and favorite things that make life enjoyable? It's a sacrifice. Another missionary told me that they were completely rejected by their families when they surrendered to the mission field, but couldn't ignore the pull on their hearts to share the gospel in a third would country. That's sacrifice.
I was reminded recently of the small sacrifices I could make to help fulfill the camp needs of young people in Peru. For less than $20 a child could experience a week of fun filled camp and be exposed to the gospel numerous times. $20 hardly seems like a sacrifice for me. And yet...the eternal difference that could make in the life of a child because of the ultimate sacrifice....priceless. But....what if God asked for something more from me?
What about on a daily basis? Do I mock God when He requires or desires a sacrifice. I'm probably most protective of my time. But what if God interrupts my day and asks me to vary MY schedule so that it accommodates HIS? What do I do? What if God pricks my heart to let go of some afternoon quiet time to do something for someone else? What do I do? I wonder, what if God asked me to be willing to sacrifice some of my vacation money or tax refund to further HIS kingdom....what do I do?
See, just because I'm not a foreign missionary doesn't mean that God won't ask or require a sacrifice from me. For some reason this sacrifice issue seems so uncomfortable....yet, experience has taught me that there really is no better position to be in than at a place of emptiness. Who knew sacrifice could be the thing that fills you up with such joy.
He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."
- Jim Elliot
I was talking with one of our missions moms and tears filled her eyes as she talked of her children growing up so far from family. The joys of that close grandparent relationship that most families enjoy won't come easy for them. That's a sacrifice. Another friend of mine who is a missionary rejoices every time she can find a jar of peanut butter at her local grocers. Even though that seems almost comical, how many of us would be willing to forgo the little conveniences and favorite things that make life enjoyable? It's a sacrifice. Another missionary told me that they were completely rejected by their families when they surrendered to the mission field, but couldn't ignore the pull on their hearts to share the gospel in a third would country. That's sacrifice.
I was reminded recently of the small sacrifices I could make to help fulfill the camp needs of young people in Peru. For less than $20 a child could experience a week of fun filled camp and be exposed to the gospel numerous times. $20 hardly seems like a sacrifice for me. And yet...the eternal difference that could make in the life of a child because of the ultimate sacrifice....priceless. But....what if God asked for something more from me?
What about on a daily basis? Do I mock God when He requires or desires a sacrifice. I'm probably most protective of my time. But what if God interrupts my day and asks me to vary MY schedule so that it accommodates HIS? What do I do? What if God pricks my heart to let go of some afternoon quiet time to do something for someone else? What do I do? I wonder, what if God asked me to be willing to sacrifice some of my vacation money or tax refund to further HIS kingdom....what do I do?
See, just because I'm not a foreign missionary doesn't mean that God won't ask or require a sacrifice from me. For some reason this sacrifice issue seems so uncomfortable....yet, experience has taught me that there really is no better position to be in than at a place of emptiness. Who knew sacrifice could be the thing that fills you up with such joy.
He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."
- Jim Elliot
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Second Guessing
I've been second guessing myself (and ultimately God) a lot lately.
Second guessing....
Relationships...
Who I am....
Who I want to be....
What I am suppose to say....
When I'm supposed to say it...
Why God lets things happen....
What my calling is and what that looks like right now...
What to have for dinner....
Whether or not to work out....
Who really loves me....I mean really really really loves me...
What kind of mother I am....
And the list goes on....and on, but you get the picture. Before you call the local crazy house, I'm not losing it (well, most days anyway) because God is teaching me something. It's like in the midst of all this God says..."Let me". That's it. "Let me".
Let me....
Be the one to decide your relationships
Be the one to direct your ministry steps
Be the one to give you words to say
Be the one to show you when to say those words
Be the one to love you with an everlasting love
Be the one you trust when things go wrong, or you're disappointed, lonely and feeling insecure
Be the one to teach you how to care for this vessel
Be the one to show you how to guide your children
And in those midnight hours when I'm eyes wide open, I'm learning to experience that "Let God" peace. It's a process. It's hard. I'm miles from the finish line (heaven)....and I feel like most days I am walking two paces and stepping back one....but I'm trying to let God. In all honesty, this is too much for me. I can't juggle these things without Him. I've tried. I've failed. I need Him...seems like more each day...or maybe I am just continuing to learn inch by inch that life is easier that way...the "let God" way.
Second guessing....
Relationships...
Who I am....
Who I want to be....
What I am suppose to say....
When I'm supposed to say it...
Why God lets things happen....
What my calling is and what that looks like right now...
What to have for dinner....
Whether or not to work out....
Who really loves me....I mean really really really loves me...
What kind of mother I am....
And the list goes on....and on, but you get the picture. Before you call the local crazy house, I'm not losing it (well, most days anyway) because God is teaching me something. It's like in the midst of all this God says..."Let me". That's it. "Let me".
Let me....
Be the one to decide your relationships
Be the one to direct your ministry steps
Be the one to give you words to say
Be the one to show you when to say those words
Be the one to love you with an everlasting love
Be the one you trust when things go wrong, or you're disappointed, lonely and feeling insecure
Be the one to teach you how to care for this vessel
Be the one to show you how to guide your children
And in those midnight hours when I'm eyes wide open, I'm learning to experience that "Let God" peace. It's a process. It's hard. I'm miles from the finish line (heaven)....and I feel like most days I am walking two paces and stepping back one....but I'm trying to let God. In all honesty, this is too much for me. I can't juggle these things without Him. I've tried. I've failed. I need Him...seems like more each day...or maybe I am just continuing to learn inch by inch that life is easier that way...the "let God" way.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Thankful Thursday
This week I am thankful for:
1. Friends who look out for my best interests.
2. The opportunity to serve.
3. Missionaries.
4. Words of encouragement from preschool parents.
5. An unexpected lunch date alone with Bruce/
How has God blessed you lately?
1. Friends who look out for my best interests.
2. The opportunity to serve.
3. Missionaries.
4. Words of encouragement from preschool parents.
5. An unexpected lunch date alone with Bruce/
How has God blessed you lately?
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
On Giving
Today I met a friend at the park and we enjoyed some chillin' conversation while our kids played for a couple of hours. Then we were met with a proposition from the church staff ...to deliver Christmas cards to the shut ins that were unable to pick up their cards from the church Christmas card post office. After dropping of a few of the kids, we piled the rest of them into the car and headed out to drop off the cards.
Before the third drop was made, the kids had already received candy from one of the recipients. The homebound engaged in conversation with the kids and welcomed the cards. You could tell it was a day brightener! It was so nice to see them smile as they opened the door to the kids and welcomed the cards.
It really doesn't take a lot to make someone's day. Many times I get so caught up in my own life and stuff that I don't make time to think about the things others might need outside my family. Something as little as delivering the cards to the shut-ins reminded me that even little thoughtful acts can brighten the life of someone who rarely is able to get out in public.
This has been a consuming thought in my mind recently. Being in ministry the last 17 years, people might get the idea that serving happily comes with the job. Contrary to that thought is the obvious truth that just because you perform a task doesn't mean it is done with an attitude of Christ. If I do a task with a poor attitude does it really count for Christ? Sure, God uses us in spite of ourselves sometimes, but how much more could really be done for the kingdom of God if our service was done with a cheerful, encouraging, smiling, joyful, servitude attitude? I wonder.
I was thinking about this as we drove around town, searching for houses, singing Christmas carols, enjoying the company of friends. God gives us these wonderful opportunities to share in His service and we rarely take the opportunity to jump in and enjoy them. Long faces, obligatory service and bad attitudes should take a back seat to the wonderful experience that serving God is. To see the smiles on the faces of those we took cards to was reward in itself for doing something that gained me nothing....or did it????
Before the third drop was made, the kids had already received candy from one of the recipients. The homebound engaged in conversation with the kids and welcomed the cards. You could tell it was a day brightener! It was so nice to see them smile as they opened the door to the kids and welcomed the cards.
It really doesn't take a lot to make someone's day. Many times I get so caught up in my own life and stuff that I don't make time to think about the things others might need outside my family. Something as little as delivering the cards to the shut-ins reminded me that even little thoughtful acts can brighten the life of someone who rarely is able to get out in public.
This has been a consuming thought in my mind recently. Being in ministry the last 17 years, people might get the idea that serving happily comes with the job. Contrary to that thought is the obvious truth that just because you perform a task doesn't mean it is done with an attitude of Christ. If I do a task with a poor attitude does it really count for Christ? Sure, God uses us in spite of ourselves sometimes, but how much more could really be done for the kingdom of God if our service was done with a cheerful, encouraging, smiling, joyful, servitude attitude? I wonder.
I was thinking about this as we drove around town, searching for houses, singing Christmas carols, enjoying the company of friends. God gives us these wonderful opportunities to share in His service and we rarely take the opportunity to jump in and enjoy them. Long faces, obligatory service and bad attitudes should take a back seat to the wonderful experience that serving God is. To see the smiles on the faces of those we took cards to was reward in itself for doing something that gained me nothing....or did it????
Friday, September 10, 2010
Achoo.........
It's football season.....I wondered why my allergies were acting up this week....and then I remembered....I'm allergic to this season....not fall....but football. Really. Allergic.
The week started with beginning the preschool regime and I woke up Tuesday morning with a horrible sore throat. Great! Just in time for the first day of school. It didn't get much better throughout this week...but I did take some good medicine that put me out of my misery for a good portion of the day and night!
People that suffer from allergies can't always avoid all the things associated with the allergies. Pollen flows freely through the air, friends have cats and dogs, people wear perfume. So, you learn to deal with the sneezing, watery eyes and scratchy throat. Sometimes it's worth it...pretty flowers in the spring newborn kittens and puppies, your man's cologne and then again....sometimes it's not. Football season is much the same for me. I don't like watching the sport (or playing it FYI) but I do enjoy the camaraderie of a tailgate party, chips and dip on a wintry Saturday afternoon or Monday night... with friends huddled around the TV, the feel of fall in the air, the smell of burgers on the grill and other fine grillery (yes, I know this isn't a word). So, even though I am allergic to football season, I tolerate it for the finer things...the friends, good fellowship, good food, cooler weather.... And even if I'm suffering from one of my attacks (whining about how stupid the sport is)....know that deep down inside, I'm pretty happy that we're all stopping all the busyness of life for a few hours and spending it together...even if you are screaming at the TV! It's worth it.
The week started with beginning the preschool regime and I woke up Tuesday morning with a horrible sore throat. Great! Just in time for the first day of school. It didn't get much better throughout this week...but I did take some good medicine that put me out of my misery for a good portion of the day and night!
People that suffer from allergies can't always avoid all the things associated with the allergies. Pollen flows freely through the air, friends have cats and dogs, people wear perfume. So, you learn to deal with the sneezing, watery eyes and scratchy throat. Sometimes it's worth it...pretty flowers in the spring newborn kittens and puppies, your man's cologne and then again....sometimes it's not. Football season is much the same for me. I don't like watching the sport (or playing it FYI) but I do enjoy the camaraderie of a tailgate party, chips and dip on a wintry Saturday afternoon or Monday night... with friends huddled around the TV, the feel of fall in the air, the smell of burgers on the grill and other fine grillery (yes, I know this isn't a word). So, even though I am allergic to football season, I tolerate it for the finer things...the friends, good fellowship, good food, cooler weather.... And even if I'm suffering from one of my attacks (whining about how stupid the sport is)....know that deep down inside, I'm pretty happy that we're all stopping all the busyness of life for a few hours and spending it together...even if you are screaming at the TV! It's worth it.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Signs You're Loved
Over the past few weeks I've had several reminders of how much I'm loved. Sometimes you just need to be reminded. I've needed it and although the expressions of love might be comical to you...I think you'll agree that we all have that need to be affirmed. Here goes:
1. I had a birthday. Between the 100 people of facebook, my family and a couple of special friends, this day was celebrated rather than dreaded. It's nice to be remembered.
2. The youth girls from church forked our yard. I so wish I had a picture of it! Some people might have been ticked off by this expression, but for me it was more a feeling of acceptance. I'm glad they felt like they could prank us...but this is NOT an invitation to do it again:)
3. Last weekend....another group (hmmm....wonder who it could be????) TP'd our yard....while this expression was not as welcomed as the first, I still know that the naughty girls people who did this feel a sense of security and fun around us (at least they did....the security issue should be in question now....watch your back people:))
4. I've been missed. You know when you have a friend you haven't seen or when you just haven't had the chance to get together with a girlfriend for a while? That friendship is missed...it's not gone...just missed. Late night Whataburger runs, phone conversations and facebook messages let me know just because there isn't time to talk everyday...or sometimes every week, I'm missed. (FYI- I miss them too)
5. Savannah made me a picture that says "World's Greatest Mom"....I figure the feeling I got when she handed me that was a fraction of the emotion I might feel if Christ says "Well Done". I can hardly fathom that thought!
It's the little things. No one spent a lot of money or time or even energy (Ok, maybe 2 and 3 did). But it's that attitude or action of making someone else feel like they are important to your life. It's acknowledging special times, embracing for no reason, saying words that might usually be reserved for special occasions, remembering things that make someone else happy....perhaps an autumn candle or something that they've mentioned once or twice in front of you. It's taking care of their kids...asking about them, praying for them. All these things let another person know they are important in the scheme of your life.
So, thanks friends. You've filled a special place in my life!
1. I had a birthday. Between the 100 people of facebook, my family and a couple of special friends, this day was celebrated rather than dreaded. It's nice to be remembered.
2. The youth girls from church forked our yard. I so wish I had a picture of it! Some people might have been ticked off by this expression, but for me it was more a feeling of acceptance. I'm glad they felt like they could prank us...but this is NOT an invitation to do it again:)
3. Last weekend....another group (hmmm....wonder who it could be????) TP'd our yard....while this expression was not as welcomed as the first, I still know that the naughty girls people who did this feel a sense of security and fun around us (at least they did....the security issue should be in question now....watch your back people:))
4. I've been missed. You know when you have a friend you haven't seen or when you just haven't had the chance to get together with a girlfriend for a while? That friendship is missed...it's not gone...just missed. Late night Whataburger runs, phone conversations and facebook messages let me know just because there isn't time to talk everyday...or sometimes every week, I'm missed. (FYI- I miss them too)
5. Savannah made me a picture that says "World's Greatest Mom"....I figure the feeling I got when she handed me that was a fraction of the emotion I might feel if Christ says "Well Done". I can hardly fathom that thought!
It's the little things. No one spent a lot of money or time or even energy (Ok, maybe 2 and 3 did). But it's that attitude or action of making someone else feel like they are important to your life. It's acknowledging special times, embracing for no reason, saying words that might usually be reserved for special occasions, remembering things that make someone else happy....perhaps an autumn candle or something that they've mentioned once or twice in front of you. It's taking care of their kids...asking about them, praying for them. All these things let another person know they are important in the scheme of your life.
So, thanks friends. You've filled a special place in my life!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Friendliness Takes You a Long Way
Recently I was speaking with another woman about the perils of being a woman....you know...
1. If passing in a hall and making eye contact with another person and they don't say "hello", smile or at least nod, they might not like me.
2. If they sit with someone else in church or go out to eat with them after services...they may not like me.
3. If they go shopping, out to eat, to get a pedicure or to have their nose hairs trimmed....with someone else, they might not like me.
4. If they spend more time talking on the phone with so and so than with me...they may not like me.
So, what is it we are looking for in friendships and relationships with other women?
Here my short list:
1. Someone who will pray for me....in good times and bad.
2. Someone who will think the best, not the worst of me if they hear something about me.
3. Someone who is friendly.
4. Someone who is able to laugh easily.
5. Someone who won't be too surprised that I mess up....because I've talked enough about how good God's grace is.
I also appreciate a friend who will:
1. Share a good deal with me
2. Will tell me when there is lipstick on my teeth
3. Has similar interests
4. Is more adventurous than me
We women deal with a lot of insecurities. For years I've struggled with feelings of inferiority and second guessing myself. I'm at a place now where I think what has sidetracked me the most in my own life is the way I have felt others think about me....you know what is funny about that?????? I'm pretty sure people don't have the time to sit around and to think of me all day long.
So I am embracing friendliness. This past year as I have gotten to know so many amazing new women I have been blessed by their friendliness. It's ministered to me. It's made me feel welcomed. It's helped to heal a few wounded places in my heart. It's allowed me to forgive myself for mistakes I've made in the past and it's helped to provide an example of healthy friendships can be like. I've got a few friendships from the past that do this as well and I am thankful for all these life-breathing friends God's blessed me with.
If you're like me....struggle with feeling like you fit. Try friendliness on for size. Give a smile, an unexpected hug, an encouraging word or gift. See where it gets you. I bet it takes you a long way!
1. If passing in a hall and making eye contact with another person and they don't say "hello", smile or at least nod, they might not like me.
2. If they sit with someone else in church or go out to eat with them after services...they may not like me.
3. If they go shopping, out to eat, to get a pedicure or to have their nose hairs trimmed....with someone else, they might not like me.
4. If they spend more time talking on the phone with so and so than with me...they may not like me.
So, what is it we are looking for in friendships and relationships with other women?
Here my short list:
1. Someone who will pray for me....in good times and bad.
2. Someone who will think the best, not the worst of me if they hear something about me.
3. Someone who is friendly.
4. Someone who is able to laugh easily.
5. Someone who won't be too surprised that I mess up....because I've talked enough about how good God's grace is.
I also appreciate a friend who will:
1. Share a good deal with me
2. Will tell me when there is lipstick on my teeth
3. Has similar interests
4. Is more adventurous than me
We women deal with a lot of insecurities. For years I've struggled with feelings of inferiority and second guessing myself. I'm at a place now where I think what has sidetracked me the most in my own life is the way I have felt others think about me....you know what is funny about that?????? I'm pretty sure people don't have the time to sit around and to think of me all day long.
So I am embracing friendliness. This past year as I have gotten to know so many amazing new women I have been blessed by their friendliness. It's ministered to me. It's made me feel welcomed. It's helped to heal a few wounded places in my heart. It's allowed me to forgive myself for mistakes I've made in the past and it's helped to provide an example of healthy friendships can be like. I've got a few friendships from the past that do this as well and I am thankful for all these life-breathing friends God's blessed me with.
If you're like me....struggle with feeling like you fit. Try friendliness on for size. Give a smile, an unexpected hug, an encouraging word or gift. See where it gets you. I bet it takes you a long way!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Some things I learned at my garage sale
As stated previously I hosted a garage sale on Friday. Here are a few things I learned:
1. When you say your sale starts at 7:30am....it means your sale starts at 6:30am.
2. Price all the kids clothes at 25 cents and they will sell.
3. Live on the corner....ideal for garage sale traffic
4. Older women who like flowers, might stop and ask if they can dig some up....or perhaps nearly fall into your pond in order to get the right colored water lily.
5. Said woman, might also try to pay you for water lilies and other flowers, and if you graciously refuse, she could possibly end up groping you when she tries to put the money down your shirt. Say it with me...."AWKWARD!"
6. Old family friend of husbands might show up. Complete stranger to you and ask your age and the age of your children...you believe he is a complete stranger until he mentions your father in law's toupee flying through the air years ago....and then you know he must know your husband's family.
7. Garage sales are much more fun if your friends stop by to hang out.
8. When your friends kids and your kids decide to play in the pond....chances are you are going to end up with some dead fish.
9. When the weather man says 50-70% chance of thunderstorms...he doesn't always know what he is talking about.
10. Sometimes you should just give something away.
Really it was a great day for a sale. We all made a little extra cash....but the fellowship and laughs were worth so much more!
1. When you say your sale starts at 7:30am....it means your sale starts at 6:30am.
2. Price all the kids clothes at 25 cents and they will sell.
3. Live on the corner....ideal for garage sale traffic
4. Older women who like flowers, might stop and ask if they can dig some up....or perhaps nearly fall into your pond in order to get the right colored water lily.
5. Said woman, might also try to pay you for water lilies and other flowers, and if you graciously refuse, she could possibly end up groping you when she tries to put the money down your shirt. Say it with me...."AWKWARD!"
6. Old family friend of husbands might show up. Complete stranger to you and ask your age and the age of your children...you believe he is a complete stranger until he mentions your father in law's toupee flying through the air years ago....and then you know he must know your husband's family.
7. Garage sales are much more fun if your friends stop by to hang out.
8. When your friends kids and your kids decide to play in the pond....chances are you are going to end up with some dead fish.
9. When the weather man says 50-70% chance of thunderstorms...he doesn't always know what he is talking about.
10. Sometimes you should just give something away.
Really it was a great day for a sale. We all made a little extra cash....but the fellowship and laughs were worth so much more!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
A Gaggle of Girlfriends
I am one of those girls that has struggled over the years with friendships. Being in the ministry and close friendships often don't mix and after a few failed relationships with other women, I had just about decided that it would be better if I was just a "nice" person who cultivate many surface relationships. If you've been hurt or have caused hurt in a relationship you probably get what I am saying. If you haven't, please don't judge me.
So, when we moved back to Bruce's hometown almost a year ago, I was not prepared for the onslaught of friendly women. At first I resisted, feeling quite overwhelmed but also believing...this will pass, it's just the newness of the move, nobody...especially other women could possibly be this open to another gal stepping into their friendship circles.
It started with a Bible study with women of many different decades. It continued with invitations of hospitality into each other's homes, if was followed by church activities, game nights and GNO's, then there were Sunday School Christmas parties and children's birthday parties and homeschool fieldtrips. And now, I find myself on any given day surrounded by a gaggle of girlfriends who I love being with, talking, laughing, crying, sharing and struggling.
Each girlfriend represents and bring something different to the table....a role model, a mother, a working gal, a teacher, church staff wife, but each of my 10's of friends share common elements. Kind, giving, listening, helping, praying, encouraging, loving. All a girl like me has to do is put out a quick SOS and I know someone will be there. While some may have one special friend. I feel blessed to love and be loved by so many. I'm thankful that God has done a work in my heart to hopefully make me a better friend to someone who needs that encourager, cheerleader, prayer partner, laugh til it hurts friend.
I'd love to hear what it is that you value in friendships with other women. Leave a comment!
So, when we moved back to Bruce's hometown almost a year ago, I was not prepared for the onslaught of friendly women. At first I resisted, feeling quite overwhelmed but also believing...this will pass, it's just the newness of the move, nobody...especially other women could possibly be this open to another gal stepping into their friendship circles.
It started with a Bible study with women of many different decades. It continued with invitations of hospitality into each other's homes, if was followed by church activities, game nights and GNO's, then there were Sunday School Christmas parties and children's birthday parties and homeschool fieldtrips. And now, I find myself on any given day surrounded by a gaggle of girlfriends who I love being with, talking, laughing, crying, sharing and struggling.
Each girlfriend represents and bring something different to the table....a role model, a mother, a working gal, a teacher, church staff wife, but each of my 10's of friends share common elements. Kind, giving, listening, helping, praying, encouraging, loving. All a girl like me has to do is put out a quick SOS and I know someone will be there. While some may have one special friend. I feel blessed to love and be loved by so many. I'm thankful that God has done a work in my heart to hopefully make me a better friend to someone who needs that encourager, cheerleader, prayer partner, laugh til it hurts friend.
I'd love to hear what it is that you value in friendships with other women. Leave a comment!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
New Moms
I was thinking today of all of the girls who we have had through our youth ministries over the last 16 years and how that so many of them became mommies over the last year. I'm showcasing two special mommies here today:
Elizabeth....at http://thehollierfamily.blogspot.com/ was my first daughter by heart. We met when she was in middle school and now she is a pastor's wife and mommy of Sam. God used her in my life more than she could ever know...to help fill barren arms....funny how the year she went off to college was the year I got pregnant with Savannah. God knows what He's doing. On a side note...Elizabeth's sister, Melissa (also a sweetie) is expecting her first baby later this year.
Lacey... if you told Lacey that she would get pregnant during her first year of marriage, I am sure she would have laughed in your face.....but that's what happened! Lacey is a youth pastor's wife and mommy who blogs over at http://plhlynch.blogspot.com/ . She's a missions-minded momma...and I personally can't wait to see how God directs her family in the future.
These girls led dedicated lives for the Lord long before they married. One of my favorite memories was a small Bible Study I had with 6 or so teens. They came faithfully, studied and lived out what they learned. Perfect...no. Striving...yes! We enjoyed many years of youth camp together, retreats, late night talks and lots of prayers, tears and laughter.
Elizabeth and Lacey are excellent examples of young women who are raising kids with knees to the earth. Praying and seeking God's guidance each step of the way. You can tell by the way they blog of their struggles, their victories, their hearts and their families. I'm so proud of them and what sweet mommies they are....I just wish we all lived closer so we could get together for a play date!
Elizabeth....at http://thehollierfamily.blogspot.com/ was my first daughter by heart. We met when she was in middle school and now she is a pastor's wife and mommy of Sam. God used her in my life more than she could ever know...to help fill barren arms....funny how the year she went off to college was the year I got pregnant with Savannah. God knows what He's doing. On a side note...Elizabeth's sister, Melissa (also a sweetie) is expecting her first baby later this year.
Lacey... if you told Lacey that she would get pregnant during her first year of marriage, I am sure she would have laughed in your face.....but that's what happened! Lacey is a youth pastor's wife and mommy who blogs over at http://plhlynch.blogspot.com/ . She's a missions-minded momma...and I personally can't wait to see how God directs her family in the future.
These girls led dedicated lives for the Lord long before they married. One of my favorite memories was a small Bible Study I had with 6 or so teens. They came faithfully, studied and lived out what they learned. Perfect...no. Striving...yes! We enjoyed many years of youth camp together, retreats, late night talks and lots of prayers, tears and laughter.
Elizabeth and Lacey are excellent examples of young women who are raising kids with knees to the earth. Praying and seeking God's guidance each step of the way. You can tell by the way they blog of their struggles, their victories, their hearts and their families. I'm so proud of them and what sweet mommies they are....I just wish we all lived closer so we could get together for a play date!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)