We're starting a series at church on the family. And the first week is on dads. I always cringe because in so many homes dads are absent...some physically and some emotionally and too often spiritually....even in so-called Christian homes. The differences between Christian homes and non-Christian homes are becoming less and less obvious. So as I think back to my imperfect...yet wonderful childhood I was thinking of my own dad and the things that he did to help influence who I am today...for better or for worse...here's some of what I know.
1. My dad went to church. And his family went too. Every Sunday. Every Wednesday. It wasn't a question of would we go to church...ever. He modeled for us even before an accountable age, that it was good to go to the house of the Lord. He modeled submitting himself to teaching and preaching and worship that filled his heart and soul and made him stronger in his walk with the Lord.
Oh...did I mention he also worked on Sundays. Most of my childhood my dad left as soon as church was over and headed to his sales job. He hated working on Sunday's....but he also needed a job....so he worked Sunday afternoons and rarely ever missed a church service. It was his priority. It was important to him. Was he ever tired? Was he ever spent? Was he ever empty? Yes....all the more reason he went to church. He modeled faithfulness. Did he have to? Would people have understood? I don't know...it just never came up. He was his own man though and I doubt what anyone would have said would have mattered much anyway, if he felt like he was doing what the Lord wanted him too. By his faithfulness I learned to be faithful, to love my church, to submit myself to sound Biblical teaching.
2. My dad was fun. He did special things that weren't costly with his kids. Bringing home a candy bar for each of us on Fridays after a good week at school, taking us to a Braves game, videoing every one of our basketball games, shooting hundreds of free throws with us, playing UNO. We just hung out. He wasn't overly involved in any personal hobbies except woodworking and even that wasn't priority.
By this, I learned that life is full of wonderful fun experiences meant to be shared with others, I learned that little things mean a lot and that sometimes just surviving the week deserves the reward of a candy bar.
3. He dated my mom. And by date I mean....like every day. You know how when you were dating and your date would leave your house and you'd walk them to the door and give them a little kiss. Well, my parents did this every single day of my childhood. Except it wasn't just a little kiss....no...cue soap opera dramatic kiss. And of course we were grossed out....but one thing we knew...our parents loved each other. And then every month they would have an evening out. Just the two of them....while me and my brother and sister stayed home and ate TV dinners (which by the way, was a little highlight for us...yes, we were weird). By dating my mom, and loving her the way he did, it made me realize that life long love in marriage doesn't just happen, it's cultivated, nurtured and even scheduled.
4. My dad said no. At a point in my teen years, a guy quite a bit older showed some interest in me. As most girls would have been, I was flattered and actually returned some of the feelings. There were some secret glances and smiles and notes passed between us.....until he approached my dad. I remember my mom and dad telling me that there would be no relationship. I remember how mad and hurt and embarrassed I was. How humiliated I felt because my dad had spoken directly with this young man. I remember the tears and the journal entries and the frustration I felt. And yet, my dad didn't change his mind or give in or even stretch the rules for me. He said no...and by saying no, he was proving his love for me. He was protecting me. He was handling my heart like someone who really cared. And well.....now as a parent...I can only hope that Bruce and I do the same thing with our own kids. By saying no....my dad was saying a better yes....a yes to my heart being protected and guarded when I was too young and immature to understand. By saying no, and sticking to it, he was showing me that he knew what was best for me, that I could not manipulate him, that my emotions would not rule him. He was saying no FOR me....no to the hurt I might have experienced, no to my sneakiness and no to the foolishness the situation would have brought into our family.
I could write so much more...but I only want to say that when my dad died when I was 18, he had already taught me so much about life, love, God and people. He chose wisely for himself. He chose to be a husband and a dad. And today....through that I see that as an adult, although he isn't here on earth, I have been over the top influenced by him.
He missed the special moments that girls dream of having their dads there for...
Meeting my future husband
My wedding
My college graduation
My children's births
Major life decisions
But he, without even realizing it, prepared me for those things in his own way. His life-way.
That's what dads need to know today. So many things CAN influence your kids...but you have the choice to prioritize those things. Make the important things the main things and let the other stuff fall to the wayside. Be an over the top influencer in your kids lives. They will thank you later.
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Saturday, September 6, 2014
Monday, September 1, 2014
Back on Track
It's no secret. I love when school starts. The steady rhythm of routine. The promise of cooler weather. The nights home alone as a football widow....LOL. Yep...I love every last bit of it. And I didn't even talk about the food....that deserves it's very own stand alone post.
This fall finds our family in the middle of a bit of craziness. School starts tomorrow, I start teaching piano lessons tomorrow, Savannah is playing volleyball, we're starting new ministries at the church and oh...we're moving.
You might remember about a year ago when I posted about the 2 acre farm that we hoped to build....well...sometimes plans change. For over a year we've worked hard to pay off the land and to try to decide on houseplans....in fact I think I've pinned over 200 house plans...but nothing ever felt completely right. The idea of building excited me...and horrified Bruce and we had trouble finding peace together. Who knew it would be so hard to agree? (Those who have ever built a house with your spouse are frantically screaming at your computer..."we did, we did"..LOL) So we had just about decided on staying put...slowing down our plans...and just dreaming a little longer. Until I received a text about a 114 year old farmhouse ... be still my heart. I forwarded it to Bruce and his response was surprisingly..."Let's go look at it tomorrow". After two more looks and an inspection we made an offer, it was accepted and we put our house on the market. And 20 days later we had a contract on our current house. It's all happened so fast!
We've living in an old house before...the first house we bought was 100 years old...so we are aware that old houses need special care....in fact we have our fair share of painting and scraping and elbow grease ahead of us. But this new house definitely has some things going for it....awesome character, hardwood floors, an in ground swimming pool and lots more. It's got great bones and details. We are so excited!
God's timing has been impeccable (always is) in this process. And we weren't even looking. I'm thankful He knows what's best for us...even when we don't pay particularly good attention! In fact...I pinned the top house on pinterest last year, the bottom picture is the house we hope to be in at the end of the month:
So....September for the Stinson's is going to be crazy....But we are embracing it....trying to stay on track with school and everything else....and we're busy packing up boxes...everyday. We will be the best kind of tired at the end of this month!
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Ga Trip Recap
Warning...lots of family pictures ahead....you've been warned...proceed at your own risk!
See...I warned you!
Can't wait to go back!
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
Friday, November 8, 2013
Days of Thanks #8
Day 8- I'm thankful for family dinners around the kitchen table... Where conversation, laughter and second helpings flow freely.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Days of Thanks #6
Day 6- I'm thankful for the opportunity to be a stay at home mom for this season of our lives. Even on the crazy days.. It's a dream come true!
Monday, November 4, 2013
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
The More Better Brownie
I have a confession. Until one week ago I had never made homemade brownies. I just figured Betty Crocker was good enough and that was that. I tasted other brownies at church socials and birthday parties and had never had a brownie that tasted that much better than Betty's so I just figured I'd stick with what I know.
Until last week, when I was craving something chocolaty and didn't want to go to the store. So, I thought I would just look up a recipe and see what ingredients I had on hand to make something that would satisfy my desire for some sweet goodness.
And now I will never buy Betty's brownie box again....sorry Betty.
Here's a link to the more better brownie than Betty... (Go ahead...click that last sentence...you know you want to...
I knew they were good the first time I made them, but last night after dinner when Savannah asked me to make them again...and Bruce and Tucker chimed in that they were the best brownies ever....That did it for me!
Hope you enjoy them as much as we did!
Until last week, when I was craving something chocolaty and didn't want to go to the store. So, I thought I would just look up a recipe and see what ingredients I had on hand to make something that would satisfy my desire for some sweet goodness.
And now I will never buy Betty's brownie box again....sorry Betty.
Here's a link to the more better brownie than Betty... (Go ahead...click that last sentence...you know you want to...
I knew they were good the first time I made them, but last night after dinner when Savannah asked me to make them again...and Bruce and Tucker chimed in that they were the best brownies ever....That did it for me!
Hope you enjoy them as much as we did!
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Dear Savannah
Dear Savannah,
You're eleventh birthday. It's here. And you are everything I could wish that you would be at this point in your life. You're a child of God, who is learning her way in her own walk with Him. It excites me to see the passion you have to learn about Him, with your note taking at church during your dad's sermons, to our daily devotions together, you're grounding your heart in God's Word. I'm so proud of you. Keep that close to your heart because there will come a day that is darker than today that you will need to grasp it with everything you've got and hold on to its truths.
Things are going to be changing in the next year. Physically you're going to be growing into a young lady and the world is going to try to explain to you what that looks like. They are going to show you pictures of girls your age who are skinnier, tanner, prettier, better dressed. But none will be more loved...and really that's what the world is trying to tell you...."You'll be loved better if you are skinnier, tanner, prettier, better dressed." But the truth is, you're loved as much as you're ever going to be loved right now. See, God has already loved you with an everlasting, immeasurable love. He can't love you any more than He does now because that would mean that right now, His love would be lacking. And that would mean that He isn't enough now. And that would be a lie. And that would mean God isn't God because He would be a liar. And He's not. So as you grow and change and mature...remember how loved you are just the way you are.
And what about boys....
Ugh...it's gonna happen, sometime. We're going to talk about it. It's going to be uncomfortable...more for me than you probably. But the fact is that...right now, there's no way you're having a boyfriend. It's just not right, not the time. You're eleven, you're still a kid and even though you're finding out how much God loves you, other than your family, there's not another person on the planet that you need to trust with your heart. A boy your age isn't capable of being careful with your heart. It's ridiculous to put that kind of pressure on him or you. So, let's just agree...boys aren't going to be part of the big picture yet. Sure, you can be friends, but let's keep it at that....whether you know it or not, you really don't want more than that anyway...besides, they still don't bathe on a regular basis without their mommy telling them.
What about friends? Well, from what I've seen over the last 20 years working and being around teenagers is that things might get a little rocky. I hate this for you and for your sweet gal pals that you hang out with. Here are a few things that might make this transitional time easier for you:
1. Watch your words. Be careful that the things that come out of your mouth encourage people. You can always find something nice to say about someone.
2. When/if you have a disagreement with someone, before you go and give them a piece of your mind, think about it. Ask yourself if this is really worth getting upset about? If the relationship is important to you, give it some grace, give offenses a pass, give second and third chances and let it go. Because sometimes people make mistakes and just need to be let off the hook. Give a hug and forgive.
3. But if you do have to go to someone who has offended you. Be sure your words are used wisely. When someone is confronted with an offense they will remember the words you say, and they will replay those words over and over in their head. Say what needs to be said in the most loving way. Forgive when others don't ask.
4. Just because you''re best friends now doesn't mean you'll be best friends when you're 16. Ugh, I hate this, but know that from my own experiences, as you grow, mature, change, learn your way, that you're friends might change. You'll make friends as you find hobbies and interests. And that's all good. But as those comfortable and uncomfortable changes come, don't treat your old friends poorly. There are seasons in our lives when we are closer to some than others. It's just the way it is. (However, I'd like to bottle a couple of your sweet friends up and keep them with us forever!)
Lastly, let's just go ahead and talk about modesty. You're going to pretty much hate me for the next 7 years or so of your life as far as fashion goes. The world is selling a bunch of goods that is trying to convince girls your age that showing off all your body parts is pretty. The world is trying to make money, sell a product, make money. They don't love you. I do. I'm trying to teach you to love yourself enough to save your body parts...all of them...for someone who God has made especially for you to spend your adult life with. Someone who is going to love you as Christ loved the church. Someone who isn't trying to make money on you or sell a product to you. Respect yourself and your future husband ....I know it's early to think about this...and of course it's not going to happen for a long long long time, but you need to know that how you dress says a lot about how you respect yourself. And since respecting yourself and God and others is essential to growing into a mature young lady, we're not going to budge on the modesty issue. I love you, that's why.
So happy birthday sweet tween. You are so special to your dad and me...but most importantly your God. These next years are going to fly!!!!!!
You're eleventh birthday. It's here. And you are everything I could wish that you would be at this point in your life. You're a child of God, who is learning her way in her own walk with Him. It excites me to see the passion you have to learn about Him, with your note taking at church during your dad's sermons, to our daily devotions together, you're grounding your heart in God's Word. I'm so proud of you. Keep that close to your heart because there will come a day that is darker than today that you will need to grasp it with everything you've got and hold on to its truths.
Things are going to be changing in the next year. Physically you're going to be growing into a young lady and the world is going to try to explain to you what that looks like. They are going to show you pictures of girls your age who are skinnier, tanner, prettier, better dressed. But none will be more loved...and really that's what the world is trying to tell you...."You'll be loved better if you are skinnier, tanner, prettier, better dressed." But the truth is, you're loved as much as you're ever going to be loved right now. See, God has already loved you with an everlasting, immeasurable love. He can't love you any more than He does now because that would mean that right now, His love would be lacking. And that would mean that He isn't enough now. And that would be a lie. And that would mean God isn't God because He would be a liar. And He's not. So as you grow and change and mature...remember how loved you are just the way you are.
And what about boys....
Ugh...it's gonna happen, sometime. We're going to talk about it. It's going to be uncomfortable...more for me than you probably. But the fact is that...right now, there's no way you're having a boyfriend. It's just not right, not the time. You're eleven, you're still a kid and even though you're finding out how much God loves you, other than your family, there's not another person on the planet that you need to trust with your heart. A boy your age isn't capable of being careful with your heart. It's ridiculous to put that kind of pressure on him or you. So, let's just agree...boys aren't going to be part of the big picture yet. Sure, you can be friends, but let's keep it at that....whether you know it or not, you really don't want more than that anyway...besides, they still don't bathe on a regular basis without their mommy telling them.
What about friends? Well, from what I've seen over the last 20 years working and being around teenagers is that things might get a little rocky. I hate this for you and for your sweet gal pals that you hang out with. Here are a few things that might make this transitional time easier for you:
1. Watch your words. Be careful that the things that come out of your mouth encourage people. You can always find something nice to say about someone.
2. When/if you have a disagreement with someone, before you go and give them a piece of your mind, think about it. Ask yourself if this is really worth getting upset about? If the relationship is important to you, give it some grace, give offenses a pass, give second and third chances and let it go. Because sometimes people make mistakes and just need to be let off the hook. Give a hug and forgive.
3. But if you do have to go to someone who has offended you. Be sure your words are used wisely. When someone is confronted with an offense they will remember the words you say, and they will replay those words over and over in their head. Say what needs to be said in the most loving way. Forgive when others don't ask.
4. Just because you''re best friends now doesn't mean you'll be best friends when you're 16. Ugh, I hate this, but know that from my own experiences, as you grow, mature, change, learn your way, that you're friends might change. You'll make friends as you find hobbies and interests. And that's all good. But as those comfortable and uncomfortable changes come, don't treat your old friends poorly. There are seasons in our lives when we are closer to some than others. It's just the way it is. (However, I'd like to bottle a couple of your sweet friends up and keep them with us forever!)
Lastly, let's just go ahead and talk about modesty. You're going to pretty much hate me for the next 7 years or so of your life as far as fashion goes. The world is selling a bunch of goods that is trying to convince girls your age that showing off all your body parts is pretty. The world is trying to make money, sell a product, make money. They don't love you. I do. I'm trying to teach you to love yourself enough to save your body parts...all of them...for someone who God has made especially for you to spend your adult life with. Someone who is going to love you as Christ loved the church. Someone who isn't trying to make money on you or sell a product to you. Respect yourself and your future husband ....I know it's early to think about this...and of course it's not going to happen for a long long long time, but you need to know that how you dress says a lot about how you respect yourself. And since respecting yourself and God and others is essential to growing into a mature young lady, we're not going to budge on the modesty issue. I love you, that's why.
So happy birthday sweet tween. You are so special to your dad and me...but most importantly your God. These next years are going to fly!!!!!!
Friday, July 5, 2013
Fourth Fun
It's been 7 weeks since I left Sulphur Springs...until yesterday. I'm not kidding.
I haven't ran (in my car of course) to Greenville or Rockwall or even a mad dash over to the scrapbook store in Winnsboro. Nothing. Nada. Nil.
I'm not sure why. Maybe it's my newfound love for being home. Or my desire to be less of a consumer and more diligent in using what I have. Maybe it's the cost of gas. Maybe it's the fact that I haven't really needed to so why would I? Whatever.
So when Bruce had the day off and we could do anything in the world we wanted to...I made a list of the things my family needed for some upcoming traveling we will be doing and we headed to Rockwall. We ate, shopped, looked and enjoyed our day out on the town.
We got back home just in time to get ready for Taekwondo lessons, where many students are getting ready to go to World Competition (thus, the reason the studio was open). As soon as we finished there, we raced home, changed clothes and surprised the kids with tickets to Despicable Me 2. Cute movie.
Just as we finished the Country Club was setting off fireworks so we were able to enjoy the sky on our way home...the long way of course!
I enjoyed the day more than usual probably. Bruce's phone was quiet, the kids behaved, we found some great bargains, the weather was decent...even had a shower and we ate some good food. If only every day could be so magical...
As we prayed with the kids yesterday, we reminded ourselves of this great country, thankful for the freedoms we still have, thankful for the men and women who stand up for what is right and good and biblical and pray that America will draw near to the heart of God. We are America...we the people...oh that we would draw near to Him. This is my prayer for our America.
I haven't ran (in my car of course) to Greenville or Rockwall or even a mad dash over to the scrapbook store in Winnsboro. Nothing. Nada. Nil.
I'm not sure why. Maybe it's my newfound love for being home. Or my desire to be less of a consumer and more diligent in using what I have. Maybe it's the cost of gas. Maybe it's the fact that I haven't really needed to so why would I? Whatever.
So when Bruce had the day off and we could do anything in the world we wanted to...I made a list of the things my family needed for some upcoming traveling we will be doing and we headed to Rockwall. We ate, shopped, looked and enjoyed our day out on the town.
We got back home just in time to get ready for Taekwondo lessons, where many students are getting ready to go to World Competition (thus, the reason the studio was open). As soon as we finished there, we raced home, changed clothes and surprised the kids with tickets to Despicable Me 2. Cute movie.
Just as we finished the Country Club was setting off fireworks so we were able to enjoy the sky on our way home...the long way of course!
I enjoyed the day more than usual probably. Bruce's phone was quiet, the kids behaved, we found some great bargains, the weather was decent...even had a shower and we ate some good food. If only every day could be so magical...
As we prayed with the kids yesterday, we reminded ourselves of this great country, thankful for the freedoms we still have, thankful for the men and women who stand up for what is right and good and biblical and pray that America will draw near to the heart of God. We are America...we the people...oh that we would draw near to Him. This is my prayer for our America.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Imperfect Dads
I had an imperfect dad. Charles Douglas Anderson:
He was a closet smoker, wore white socks with black dress shoes (gasp), said the occasional bad word, worked on Sundays sometimes, was color blind, flat footed and if you asked my sister, she would tell you he picked favorites and she was it (however...I'm not sure of the truth to that matter).
I had an imperfect father-in-law. David Alfred Stinson:
He spoiled his kids, wore a toupee for a number of years, got mad when you said something negative about his family, enjoyed a little extra attention, paid for his kids car insurance way into their adult years and even though his daughter would swear she was the favorite...we all know...the grandkids outranked her.
I have an imperfect step-father. Harley Thomas Morris:
He laughs loudly, tells redneck jokes, sends lots of forwards through email, hugs entirely too tightly (shame on him), refuses to rest when he's supposed to, doesn't like to eat out, disobeys drs. orders and would rather fish than shop.
My kids daddy is imperfect too... Ronald Bruce Stinson:
He works too hard, tries to please people, cares sooo deeply, forgets to take out the trash, tells corny jokes, uses improper grammar occasionally, has quite a few hobbies, has favorites songs that span multiple decades...beginning in the 70's, and corrects me when I drive.
I jest...sort of.
I was just thinking today about these men who have influenced how I view the role of a father...and complete with all their imperfections, I realize now more than ever, these are 4 of the best men who have ever walked this earth.
Because amid all those imperfections they are or were:
God fearing
Devoted to their family
Solid in their Beliefs
Hard Working
Teachable
Loving
Giving
Servants
Caring
Prayerful
Joyful
Patient
Kind
Forgiving
and
Imperfect.
They have taught me how to recover. They've taught me how to get back up when life knocks you down. They've taught me that, besides God, family is top priority. They've taught me to seize the moment, give extravagantly, serve unnoticed and to love, love, love.
These are the lessons of imperfect men. This is their legacy. These are the lessons of men who have lived with eternity in their hearts...Lessons they taught more through their actions than through their words. Lessons full of honesty and integrity.
Imperfect? Yes. And I'll take it. Each lesson. Each moment. Each memory. Each day. Because in the end, I already have a perfect Father. I know Him and so did my imperfect dads.
Maybe that's why they've been such good fathers.
I think so.
He was a closet smoker, wore white socks with black dress shoes (gasp), said the occasional bad word, worked on Sundays sometimes, was color blind, flat footed and if you asked my sister, she would tell you he picked favorites and she was it (however...I'm not sure of the truth to that matter).
I had an imperfect father-in-law. David Alfred Stinson:
He spoiled his kids, wore a toupee for a number of years, got mad when you said something negative about his family, enjoyed a little extra attention, paid for his kids car insurance way into their adult years and even though his daughter would swear she was the favorite...we all know...the grandkids outranked her.
I have an imperfect step-father. Harley Thomas Morris:
He laughs loudly, tells redneck jokes, sends lots of forwards through email, hugs entirely too tightly (shame on him), refuses to rest when he's supposed to, doesn't like to eat out, disobeys drs. orders and would rather fish than shop.
My kids daddy is imperfect too... Ronald Bruce Stinson:
He works too hard, tries to please people, cares sooo deeply, forgets to take out the trash, tells corny jokes, uses improper grammar occasionally, has quite a few hobbies, has favorites songs that span multiple decades...beginning in the 70's, and corrects me when I drive.
I jest...sort of.
I was just thinking today about these men who have influenced how I view the role of a father...and complete with all their imperfections, I realize now more than ever, these are 4 of the best men who have ever walked this earth.
Because amid all those imperfections they are or were:
God fearing
Devoted to their family
Solid in their Beliefs
Hard Working
Teachable
Loving
Giving
Servants
Caring
Prayerful
Joyful
Patient
Kind
Forgiving
and
Imperfect.
They have taught me how to recover. They've taught me how to get back up when life knocks you down. They've taught me that, besides God, family is top priority. They've taught me to seize the moment, give extravagantly, serve unnoticed and to love, love, love.
These are the lessons of imperfect men. This is their legacy. These are the lessons of men who have lived with eternity in their hearts...Lessons they taught more through their actions than through their words. Lessons full of honesty and integrity.
Imperfect? Yes. And I'll take it. Each lesson. Each moment. Each memory. Each day. Because in the end, I already have a perfect Father. I know Him and so did my imperfect dads.
Maybe that's why they've been such good fathers.
I think so.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
5 years
It's been five years since I started blogging. June 7, 2008, marked my first blog entry. So much has changed and so much has stayed the same...
Changes...
Well, I'm older...and hopefully a little wiser. I've gone from writing for myself, to thinking about the audience of reader's that occasionally or regularly visit this space. My life has changed as I am now mothering an almost 11 year old and a 7 year old. We don't talk diapers and bottles...but rather Taekwondo and iPods. We've gone through some trials and some mountaintop experiences and while I haven't shared every intimate detail on the blog, those experiences have shaped my writing and my heart. I will never be the same.
The Same..
I still feel incredibly blessed to be a wife, mom. The main reason I even starting writing this was so that in some way there would be a written legacy for my kids. I want them to see the struggle, the pain, the joy, the good times and learn from what God taught us. I still write what I know....and most of the time that has something to do with my family, friends or church. I'm still sorry for anything embarrassing that I may share from time to time about them....but hey, that's part of the memories, right? God's is still faithfully guiding each step of the journey. I still trust Him..although I don't always understand. Thankfully that's not a prerequisite. I'm pretty sure the tone of the blog will stay the same. I like to think about us sitting down to a diet coke at my kitchen table and just catching up. Hopefully something said will minister to your heart and bind us together to the Savior more.
So what's in store for the future...probably more about my family than you might want to know. God's allowing me to stay home full time now and so there's actually stuff going on here that I'm not sure goes on other places...so I might need your help. I can assure you there's going to be some talk about church...and ideas for ministry and there's going to continue to be a lot of talk about Jesus. Because without Him there'd be nothing for me to write about. There's going to be some grammar mistakes, some run on sentences, misplaced punctuation and spelling errors. And there's going to be homeschool talk and gardening and homemaking and crafting and Bible Study and parenting talk.
Goals...
I'd like more conversations in the community we are building here. I'd like to know if you resonate with something I write or if you think it's crazy and off the wall. I can handle it. I'd like to know how to pray for you or encourage you. I'd like to know more about my readers. So..drop me a line...or leave a comment.
Thanks for the five years...I can't imagine what things will look like in 5 more!
Changes...
Well, I'm older...and hopefully a little wiser. I've gone from writing for myself, to thinking about the audience of reader's that occasionally or regularly visit this space. My life has changed as I am now mothering an almost 11 year old and a 7 year old. We don't talk diapers and bottles...but rather Taekwondo and iPods. We've gone through some trials and some mountaintop experiences and while I haven't shared every intimate detail on the blog, those experiences have shaped my writing and my heart. I will never be the same.
The Same..
I still feel incredibly blessed to be a wife, mom. The main reason I even starting writing this was so that in some way there would be a written legacy for my kids. I want them to see the struggle, the pain, the joy, the good times and learn from what God taught us. I still write what I know....and most of the time that has something to do with my family, friends or church. I'm still sorry for anything embarrassing that I may share from time to time about them....but hey, that's part of the memories, right? God's is still faithfully guiding each step of the journey. I still trust Him..although I don't always understand. Thankfully that's not a prerequisite. I'm pretty sure the tone of the blog will stay the same. I like to think about us sitting down to a diet coke at my kitchen table and just catching up. Hopefully something said will minister to your heart and bind us together to the Savior more.
So what's in store for the future...probably more about my family than you might want to know. God's allowing me to stay home full time now and so there's actually stuff going on here that I'm not sure goes on other places...so I might need your help. I can assure you there's going to be some talk about church...and ideas for ministry and there's going to continue to be a lot of talk about Jesus. Because without Him there'd be nothing for me to write about. There's going to be some grammar mistakes, some run on sentences, misplaced punctuation and spelling errors. And there's going to be homeschool talk and gardening and homemaking and crafting and Bible Study and parenting talk.
Goals...
I'd like more conversations in the community we are building here. I'd like to know if you resonate with something I write or if you think it's crazy and off the wall. I can handle it. I'd like to know how to pray for you or encourage you. I'd like to know more about my readers. So..drop me a line...or leave a comment.
Thanks for the five years...I can't imagine what things will look like in 5 more!
Monday, June 3, 2013
Post Sunday Thoughts
Some Sunday's are better than others. Yesterday was one of those. Although it was one of the longest, busiest Sundays, God was busy.
1. I finished up teaching in the ladies Sunday school class at church. I've just been filling in while the teacher was out taking care of a family member who has been ill. These ladies have been such a blessing to me. Almost everyone of them is older than I am, so it was a little intimidating sharing my small amount of life experience with them. I discovered how thankful I am that when God's Word speaks it really doesn't matter who is doing the talking...He's louder. We have had some wonderful discussion over some of my favorite Psalms. I've been reminded just how much God cares for us.
2. We had a musician's meeting after church. As always, when you get a group of creative minds together there are plenty of opinions and dreaming and ideas. I am thankful for the people God has placed together to mesh worship ideas together. I loved hearing a 15 year old young man share his ideas, as well as hearing the ideas of the oldest member of the group. It's beautiful when the body of Christ is working towards the same goal of worshipping the creator.
3. Savannah sang a solo in church for the first time. She has sung small parts in programs with the kid's choir backing her up, but this was her first time all alone on the big stage. She did so good (well, of course, I am her mom, so I would say that...but some other people said it too). She sang Jamie Grace's Lead Me On.
4. During the evening service we held our new/perspective members class. We had 11 people at the meeting. We enjoyed fellowship with them and with our officers and staff afterwards. I love those people and their sweet and fun personalities.
When we finally got home it was close to nine or maybe after...not really sure. We all got in our jammies and vegged on the couch for a little bit. We rehashed the goodness of God on our day and reflected a little on what God is busy doing in our own lives. Bruce talked about the sermon, a meeting with our Caraway Worker's and Savannah rehashed her piano lessons from the day. Tucker told on himself and got a little extra sermon on kindness and compassion. And slowly but surely we all realized how tired we were...
But, as tired as we are post Sunday...we are so very thankful that we get to do this amazing job.
Friday, May 31, 2013
It's All About the Money....
As a kid I remember the first "big ticket" item I saved my money to purchase. It was in the Service Merchandise catalog. It was $36.99. It was a gold banded Timex watch, that looked a little like THIS (except in 1987 14ct gold). I was 13 years old. I had barely started babysitting and jobs were few and far between. It seemed like every time I earned ten bucks my parents were reminding me to tithe and save. Spending wasn't really talked about...like most kids I didn't really have any trouble doing that!
Now it's time for me to start really teaching my own kids about money and I can hear my mom and dad's voice in the back of my head....tithe, save...then spend. It's true....I sound a lot like my mom these days. So, I've been trying to talk to Savannah and Tucker about how to manage their meager money. Along with mastering percentages, Savannah is learning to think about purchases more before she makes them. She's signed up for discounts at her favorite stores and receives the occasional e-coupon on her iPod touch. She's making progress, but still needs much, much, much guidance....and I need a recorder with my parents voice ringing out "tithe, save, spend."
Tucker's a whole nother story....at 7 years of age he barely understand that we don't have a money tree growing in the back yard. I've started paying both the kids for EXTRA chores at home. He is understanding that when he works he gets paid and when he doesn't ...no money exchanges hands. He enjoys earning a quarter here and there and is ready to open a back account for all his cash (his words).
There are plenty of resources out there to help us teach our kids about money. If we don't teach them, someone will. The world's methods of dealing with money is to borrow, borrow, borrow. But as Christians, we know God's Word teaches against that. So, if I am going to do my job well, I've got to instruct them according to God's word. Here are a few resources that might be helpful as you do the same:
Dave Ramsey's Junior Clubhouse
Compass has two great books The ABC's of Handling Money and The Secret to Handling Money God's Way.
Crosswalk.com has a great article about talking about money with your kids.
Money Matters for Teens
Just because your family may not have a lot of money (its all relative anyway) doesn't give us as parents the excuse not to teach them about money. If we don't do it somebody will. I don't know about you, but, I've looked around and am pretty sure the world doesn't know how to do it God's way.
Now it's time for me to start really teaching my own kids about money and I can hear my mom and dad's voice in the back of my head....tithe, save...then spend. It's true....I sound a lot like my mom these days. So, I've been trying to talk to Savannah and Tucker about how to manage their meager money. Along with mastering percentages, Savannah is learning to think about purchases more before she makes them. She's signed up for discounts at her favorite stores and receives the occasional e-coupon on her iPod touch. She's making progress, but still needs much, much, much guidance....and I need a recorder with my parents voice ringing out "tithe, save, spend."
Tucker's a whole nother story....at 7 years of age he barely understand that we don't have a money tree growing in the back yard. I've started paying both the kids for EXTRA chores at home. He is understanding that when he works he gets paid and when he doesn't ...no money exchanges hands. He enjoys earning a quarter here and there and is ready to open a back account for all his cash (his words).
There are plenty of resources out there to help us teach our kids about money. If we don't teach them, someone will. The world's methods of dealing with money is to borrow, borrow, borrow. But as Christians, we know God's Word teaches against that. So, if I am going to do my job well, I've got to instruct them according to God's word. Here are a few resources that might be helpful as you do the same:
Dave Ramsey's Junior Clubhouse
Compass has two great books The ABC's of Handling Money and The Secret to Handling Money God's Way.
Crosswalk.com has a great article about talking about money with your kids.
Money Matters for Teens
Just because your family may not have a lot of money (its all relative anyway) doesn't give us as parents the excuse not to teach them about money. If we don't do it somebody will. I don't know about you, but, I've looked around and am pretty sure the world doesn't know how to do it God's way.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Your Home Under Fire
I was reminded today at lunch that my home is under fire.
A godly woman spoke the words I've thought a thousand times.
"There is no place Satan wants in more than your home."
Within the walls of our homes are the things that most women cherish the most...our husbands and our children. Not much else matters when counting our tangible blessings. But, what I've been pondering lately is what can I do to protect and shelter my home from the fiery darts of the enemy. I know that the world is wrestling for my kids and my husband...and me, but I want, within the walls of our home, for there to be some sense of safety. A sheltering place, a refuge, a place where we've prepared and prayed and planned for the distractions of this world to be less.
Is it possible?
I don't know. (I say that a lot). I guess there are no guarantees but I'd like to think that God would honor our efforts to prepare our homes as a sanctuary for holiness, as a place where Satan and his agents are not welcomed by invitation. Here are a few things that we're working on at our home to safeguard our greatest treasures.
1. Pray together... at meals, at bedtime, at devotions, when you hear a siren, when someone is sick, when something good happens, when you're fearful. Pray out loud together. This models for your kids that you go to God in everything. I found out a neat little tidbit at the end of the school year with my kids. Bruce always took the kids to school since I left to teach so early. He was out of town towards the end of the year and we were riding together to school and one of the kids piped up that it was their day to pray. Seems that they had been taking turns praying on the way to school all year long. Way to go dad!
2. Censor your media viewing...Whether it's TV, magazines, music videos, the internet. I've been too lax in this area in the past. Although we've had a boundary it hasn't been near what it should be and unfortunately many of the attitudes and actions and vocabulary that kids pick up are influenced heavily by TV. So, earnestly pray about and be aware of what your kids watch...and what you watch too. Just because you're an adult doesn't mean that you're untouchable. The attitudes of the enemy are not selective when he throws his fiery darts.
3. Talk about issues. The dinner table is a great place to talk about what's going on in the world (given that your kids are a little older). Healthy debate and biblical foundations can be formed and polished if you know how God's Word applies to issues. This not only helps your kids form a Biblical worldview, it also keeps the up to date with current events and issues that they may be faced to defend of take a stand against. Home is a great place to practice defending your faith.
4. Keep perspective of eternity. There's an old saying that says "Don't be so heavenly minded that you're no earthly good". I've meet people through the years (and might have actually been that person in some instances) that knew so much about what God's word had to say, yet the way they conveyed their information was so contrary to the love filled way God presents Himself. We can't grow weary in doing right. God's word tells us we will reap what we sow. However, if all I do is produce a generation of children that knows the legalities of God's word without the heart knowledge of Christ Jesus, I may instead raise a generation of arrogant, self consumed, holier than thou kids, who only know rules and not grace. Eternity is about grace. Remember that.
5. Treasure you time with your spouse. If like most couples, it's not near as much as you would like, but nevertheless, don't underestimate the power of a thirty minute talk over the grill, 15 minutes of quiet time before the kids get up or a once a month date night. Satan wants nothing more than to get you so busy so that you can't fit time with your spouse in your schedule. It's those moments spent in conversation or just in quiet comfort that your relationship is renewed, strengthened and made more fireproof. Neglect this point and you'll probably move from happy to lonely to looking for something to fill your heart vacancies...and that's where you'll need the fire department...because your home will be under fire.
Of course this list isn't exhaustive. We could talk for hours about ways to safeguard our most valuable commodities. I'm wondering, what would you add to the list.... share it in a comment.
A godly woman spoke the words I've thought a thousand times.
"There is no place Satan wants in more than your home."
Within the walls of our homes are the things that most women cherish the most...our husbands and our children. Not much else matters when counting our tangible blessings. But, what I've been pondering lately is what can I do to protect and shelter my home from the fiery darts of the enemy. I know that the world is wrestling for my kids and my husband...and me, but I want, within the walls of our home, for there to be some sense of safety. A sheltering place, a refuge, a place where we've prepared and prayed and planned for the distractions of this world to be less.
Is it possible?
I don't know. (I say that a lot). I guess there are no guarantees but I'd like to think that God would honor our efforts to prepare our homes as a sanctuary for holiness, as a place where Satan and his agents are not welcomed by invitation. Here are a few things that we're working on at our home to safeguard our greatest treasures.
1. Pray together... at meals, at bedtime, at devotions, when you hear a siren, when someone is sick, when something good happens, when you're fearful. Pray out loud together. This models for your kids that you go to God in everything. I found out a neat little tidbit at the end of the school year with my kids. Bruce always took the kids to school since I left to teach so early. He was out of town towards the end of the year and we were riding together to school and one of the kids piped up that it was their day to pray. Seems that they had been taking turns praying on the way to school all year long. Way to go dad!
2. Censor your media viewing...Whether it's TV, magazines, music videos, the internet. I've been too lax in this area in the past. Although we've had a boundary it hasn't been near what it should be and unfortunately many of the attitudes and actions and vocabulary that kids pick up are influenced heavily by TV. So, earnestly pray about and be aware of what your kids watch...and what you watch too. Just because you're an adult doesn't mean that you're untouchable. The attitudes of the enemy are not selective when he throws his fiery darts.
3. Talk about issues. The dinner table is a great place to talk about what's going on in the world (given that your kids are a little older). Healthy debate and biblical foundations can be formed and polished if you know how God's Word applies to issues. This not only helps your kids form a Biblical worldview, it also keeps the up to date with current events and issues that they may be faced to defend of take a stand against. Home is a great place to practice defending your faith.
4. Keep perspective of eternity. There's an old saying that says "Don't be so heavenly minded that you're no earthly good". I've meet people through the years (and might have actually been that person in some instances) that knew so much about what God's word had to say, yet the way they conveyed their information was so contrary to the love filled way God presents Himself. We can't grow weary in doing right. God's word tells us we will reap what we sow. However, if all I do is produce a generation of children that knows the legalities of God's word without the heart knowledge of Christ Jesus, I may instead raise a generation of arrogant, self consumed, holier than thou kids, who only know rules and not grace. Eternity is about grace. Remember that.
5. Treasure you time with your spouse. If like most couples, it's not near as much as you would like, but nevertheless, don't underestimate the power of a thirty minute talk over the grill, 15 minutes of quiet time before the kids get up or a once a month date night. Satan wants nothing more than to get you so busy so that you can't fit time with your spouse in your schedule. It's those moments spent in conversation or just in quiet comfort that your relationship is renewed, strengthened and made more fireproof. Neglect this point and you'll probably move from happy to lonely to looking for something to fill your heart vacancies...and that's where you'll need the fire department...because your home will be under fire.
Of course this list isn't exhaustive. We could talk for hours about ways to safeguard our most valuable commodities. I'm wondering, what would you add to the list.... share it in a comment.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
10 Things...that make my day
I am generally a positive person. Generally. But every now-n-then, just like you, life stumps me, trips me up and instead of looking up, I get down. However, there are a few things that can put a smile on my face pretty quickly...
1. Hearing my kids use good manners. I like this. A lot. I like to hear them being polite and grateful and respectful. Especially when they do it on their own.
2. A Diet Coke from Diary Queen....with their ice...out of the fountain. I would buy one of those machines (ice and fountain) for my house if I had room. Maybe.
3. A new magazine in the mail. Southern Living, Better Homes, Taste of Home...and in a pinch, I'll rate some catalogs as good as a magazine...YWAM, CBD, Country Door.
4. Hearing a favorite artist on the radio....JJ Heller, Jimmy Needham, Merideth Andrews
5. Listening to the testimony of God working in someone's life.
6. Hearing from our missionaries.
7. A new sharpie pen....slight addiction...
8. An empty laundry basket....rarely happens...but when it does we observe a moment of silence.
9. The jingle of keys in the door that signals Bruce is home from work.
10. Time with my church family....truly some of the greatest people on earth!
What makes your day?
1. Hearing my kids use good manners. I like this. A lot. I like to hear them being polite and grateful and respectful. Especially when they do it on their own.
2. A Diet Coke from Diary Queen....with their ice...out of the fountain. I would buy one of those machines (ice and fountain) for my house if I had room. Maybe.
3. A new magazine in the mail. Southern Living, Better Homes, Taste of Home...and in a pinch, I'll rate some catalogs as good as a magazine...YWAM, CBD, Country Door.
4. Hearing a favorite artist on the radio....JJ Heller, Jimmy Needham, Merideth Andrews
5. Listening to the testimony of God working in someone's life.
6. Hearing from our missionaries.
7. A new sharpie pen....slight addiction...
8. An empty laundry basket....rarely happens...but when it does we observe a moment of silence.
9. The jingle of keys in the door that signals Bruce is home from work.
10. Time with my church family....truly some of the greatest people on earth!
What makes your day?
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Year in Review 2012
Here are the highlights from our year:
January- Our senior pastor or 27 years resigned from our church and Bruce submitted his resume to be considered as a candidate. We said goodbye to good friends who moved to NC to finish up training with JAARS.
February- Savannah and Bruce went to a Father Daughter dance and had a great time. They share such a special bond. We had our Missions Conference at church and I was blessed to meet and get reacquainted with truly beautiful people who are sharing Christ around the world.
March- We spent Spring Break in Georgia and had a wonderful time just enjoying the beauty of the deep south. The kids enjoyed playing with their cousins and the puppies. Sissy took us to a huge trampoline gym and the kids had more fun than they could have imagined. We enjoyed a trip up to NC to see The Brewers since we were so close. Traveled back through my birth state...TN and enjoyed the gorgeous blossoms on the trees and flowers. Savannah started taking Tae Kwon Do with Tucker.
April- Easter and preparations for end of the school year were underway. Welcomed home missionary friends from Peru.
May- Tucker graduated from Kindergarten and we finished up the school year with a Fun Day with bounce houses and parachutes and snow cones. Super fun.
June- both kids earned their new belts for Tae Kwon Do, we did VBS at church. Bruce candidated at the church for the pastorate and was voted in at 99%. God taught us gobs during the waiting process.
July- Savannah went to church camp, Bruce and Tucker went to visit her at camp and I wasted 2 days of my life watching 3 seasons of Heartland. We spent 2 days away with our church staff for staff planning....it was a God-anointed time.
August- Made another trip to GA. Mom and I toured the Southern Living 2012 Home and enjoyed some girl time. We also took a trip to Lake Lanier with my brother, sister in law and niece and my sister and Mom and Tom. Three glorious days...it was the best thing in the world we could do! I turned 40 and the ladies at church threw me a hilarious surprise party. Savannah turned 10 and we took a Mother Daughter trip out of town with Debbie and one of Savannah's friends.
September- School started back...me teaching 1st grade, Tucker in my class and Savannah doing work in Mrs. Ali's class. I also was blessed to begin teaching a Wednesday night small group of women. We worked our way through Priscilla Shirer's Resolution for Women. God began doing some work in my life during that study. Both kids advanced to the next belt rank in TaeKwonDo. Bruce shared his vision (God's really) for the church for the next 18 months.
October- We had our Fall Festival at church. It was a great time of outreach. Bruce's dad was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma. He had his first chemo.
November- Women's Night of Worship, Friend Day at church with Daves Highway, Bruce dad was hospitalized, Mom and Tom came early for Thanksgiving to help with kids, Bruce's Dad passed away right before Thanksgiving. Hard month. God was with us each step of the way...and our incredible, loving church family ....words fail me....
December- Christmas festivities at church and school. Savannah went with Debbie to see the Rockettes, Tucker rode his first bronco bull. We took the kids to Prestonwood's Gift of Christmas and they loved it. Enjoyed a night out with some girlfriends. Tucker turned 7. We took the kids to their first hibachi grill. Savannah and I got the flu for Christmas. We enjoyed seeing Scott Anderson and having the Erwin family with us for our last Sunday in 2012.
And through it all...God was faithful. And He will be in 2013 because that's who He is. Faithful. Always. Always. Always.
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Monday, December 31, 2012
How We're Spending New Year's Eve
Bruce declared this New Year's Eve "family night" so we are all hunkered down for some Fruit Ninja on the Xbox, some computer time, some TV watching (still have 30 unwatched Hallmark movies from the holidays to watch) and some good food.
The kids started their day playing a new online game they've discovered:
Bruce started the day quarantined to the back of the house that we are lovingly calling "sick hall". He's feeling better now, but I really can't pass up an opportunity to share a great picture:
Then on to way more appetizing things:
And to wrap up the night....the best pizza in town
Can you smell all that yummy goodness?
As the year closes and another one welcomes us...I'm finding myself reflecting on the things that God has allowed our family to experience in 2012. Whether good or bad, He's always in the process of making me new...better...more like Him. I'm thankful, eternally for the work He's accomplishing and humbled by the beauty and truth that He desires to use ordinary, sinful, redeemed people to worship Him, serve Him, and draw men and women to Him. What an amazing gift to give Him when we can abandon ourselves and totally surrender to Him!
The kids started their day playing a new online game they've discovered:
Bruce started the day quarantined to the back of the house that we are lovingly calling "sick hall". He's feeling better now, but I really can't pass up an opportunity to share a great picture:
I started the day out with a few loads of laundry and inbetween I sat down to read all about onions...yes...I'm thinking gardening already
Then on to way more appetizing things:
And to wrap up the night....the best pizza in town
Can you smell all that yummy goodness?
As the year closes and another one welcomes us...I'm finding myself reflecting on the things that God has allowed our family to experience in 2012. Whether good or bad, He's always in the process of making me new...better...more like Him. I'm thankful, eternally for the work He's accomplishing and humbled by the beauty and truth that He desires to use ordinary, sinful, redeemed people to worship Him, serve Him, and draw men and women to Him. What an amazing gift to give Him when we can abandon ourselves and totally surrender to Him!
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