From Car Seats to Car Keys....Tips for the Journey

Happy Mother's Day, Moms and Grandmoms!

2009-05-09T21:40:00.010-05:00

A partially deaf boy came home from school one day carrying a note from school officials. The note suggested that the parents take the boy out of school, claiming that he was "too stupid to learn." The boy's mother read the note and said, "My son Tom isn't 'too stupid to learn.' "I'll teach him myself." And she did.

When Tom died many years later, Americans paid tribute to him by turning off the nation's lights for one full minute. You see, Tom invented the light bulb - not only that - he also invented motion pictures and the record player. In all, Thomas Edison had more than 1000 patents to his credit.

My mother was the making of me. Thomas A. Edison (1847-1931)

I hope that whatever phase of life you are in today that you will take a moment to reflect upon the blessing of being a mom.

Have a great day,

Robin

A Handwritten Note - Priceless

2009-01-13T15:21:00.006-06:00

I pulled a book off of my shelf earlier today. As I thumbed through the book, something fell out. It was a handwritten note that my grandmother sent me several years ago (she has since passed away). I read the note and then just stared at it for a minute thinking that the very note that I held in my hands was held in her hands at one time, too. She sent me notes often and many of them I have kept. Think about it. My grandmother sat down and wrote me a note 15 years ago and it still blesses me today. We were very close.

I went out and checked the mail a few minutes ago. I saw a card from a friend. I couldn't figure out why she would be sending me a card. As I read it, once again I was blessed. She took the time out of her very busy life to write me a nice note. It was just what I needed for today.

Tip: Set up a little area perhaps near a desk with cards, stamps and addresses. Make it your goal to bless someone each week with an encouraging word. You can bless your child, spouse, family member or friend. Who knows? It might bless them now as well as 15 years later.

Move that Bus!

2009-01-06T08:28:00.005-06:00

Not many things can move me to tears particularly a tv show. I have lived with testosterone dripping off the ceiling 20+ years now and I think my tear ducts have pretty much dried up. But all of that has changed now that I have watched Extreme Home Makeover. The words "Move that Bus" can reduce me to a puddle of tears in seconds.

I want to recommend this show to your family. If you haven't seen it, I will tell you about it. A crew of homebuilders rebuilds the home of a family in need. Ususally the family has had a crisis of some sort or they are so busy serving others that they don't have the resources to fix up their home that is falling apart. One show I watched the crew totally rebuilt the home of a family whose son has a terminal disease. Another show the crew rebuilt the home of a family who takes in children and teens who have no home. They had around 12 people sharing 1 bathroom in a dilapidated house that I could not even fathom living in. Not only do they rebuild the home but they decorate it suited to the family members' personalities. While the crew is rebuilding the home, the family is sent on an extravagant all-expense paid vacation.

The show is heartwarming and renews my faith in mankind. It shows the goodness and sacrifice of people who are not in this world to see how much they can get how much they can give., This is the kind of show that could spark an interest in your children that could lead them to a very rewarding life of service to others.

Have a wonderful day, Robin

Merry CHRISTmas, Everyone!!

2008-12-22T10:53:00.005-06:00

One of my least favorite things to give our boys for Christmas is money. That is so UNexciting. But face it, that's what they want and need. Last year we decided to take the Christmas card with their money in it off of the tree and hide it from them. We created a treasure hunt which led them to their prize. We started with one clue which led to another and then another. We had about 10 clues in all spread out in the house, the yard, and even in our cars. It was lots of fun. It actually took them about 20-25 minutes to find all of the clues. We made it hard on purpose. We plan to do the same thing this year. That is one way to make Christmas fun for those of us who have older kiddos!

I hope you have a blessed Christmas with lots of quality family time -
Robin

Don't Forget to Display your American Flag this Tuesday

2008-11-02T22:12:00.009-06:00

With Veterans Day coming soon, I wanted to share some thoughts from Woodrow Wilson. He was the U.S, President during World War I. When the World War I ended, the people of our nation wanted to honor the veterans who served. Since the armistice (or treaty) to end the war was signed on November 11, that day was declared the day to honor our veterans. Initially it was called Armistice Day. After World War II, the name was changed to Veteran's Day.

Below are some quotes from Woodrow Wilson:

"There are a good many problems before the American people today, and before me as President, but I expect to find the solution of those problems just in the proportion that I am faithful in the study of the Word of God."

"I am sorry for the men who do not read the Bible every day. I wonder why they deprive themselves of the strength and the pleasure."

"The sum of the whole matter is this, that our nation cannot survive materially unless it is redeemed spiritually. It can be saved only by becoming permeated with the Spirit of Christ and being made free and happy of the practices which spring out of that Spirit."

It is our job as parents to ensure that our children are aware of where we as a nation came from.

Happy Veterans Day, Robin

Dads, Moms and Children

2008-10-31T14:11:00.011-06:00

Before I put this Leman book on the shelf, I want to make several more comments. Leman points out that Dads and Moms view their children differently. Moms view children as an extension of themselves. Leman states, "To a woman, when a man spends time with their children, he's spending time with her, because children are an extension of their mother." That means when her husband loves their children and spends quality time with them, she feels as if he is loving her too.

Dads have a different view of the children. Dads don't emotionally connect them to their mother. Dads see them as separate entities that sometimes compete with him for Mom's attention. Leman uses humor to make his point. He says, "Children can be pesty little buggers sometimes, and they can really get in the way of marital intimacy."

The point that Dr. Leman makes is that we must realize the role children play in Dad's life is different from the role they play in Mom's life. He goes on to say, "The day is coming that the kids will be gone. But your husband will remain. Don't lose your place in his heart."

Have a great day, Robin

"My mother was my champion." Part 2

2008-10-17T15:55:00.007-05:00

Below are some more quotes from Dr. Leman's book, 7 Things He'll Never Tell You.

"I loved my mother and she clearly loved me. In the midst of hard work, she would take time to go fishing with me. When I was 5 or 6 years old, we would walk to the creek and catch fish. She would celebrate each of my catches as if it were the most spectacular catch anyone had ever made! My little-boy heart would swell with pride. Perhaps my mother already knew then that I would struggle academically and that I would need this kind of boost early in life to be a success at anything.

I was always close to my mother when I was growing up. I could talk to my mother about anything-including girls and sex. My mother was always a straight talker. I knew she loved me. And, no matter what others said, she believed and expected the best of me."

As Dr. Leman tells of his mom, the recurring theme is unconditional love. She loved him and she was his biggest fan - his loudest cheerleader. This was paramount to the success of a young man who felt as if he was a failure in the world's eyes.

Have a great week and go fishing, Robin

"My mother was my champion."

2008-10-13T22:39:00.004-05:00

As moms, we have a lot of influence. Here's the story of a mom who used her influence to change her son's life.

This week I read my first book by Dr. Kevin Leman. Dr. Leman has written many books covering various aspects of family life. In this book, he tells of his childhood. He says he was a failure, He struggled in school. He states that he was "dumber than mud." He had numerous failing grades in high school.He was thrown out of college. He later returned only to "flunk out" several times. Today Dr. Leman is an internationally known psychologist and author. What happened?

He says in his book, "...I credit my success to my mother. She, of all people, was the person who believed in me all along the way. And that gave me the firepower for success in my adult life. It gave me the confidence to discover what I was good at."

Dr. Leman's mom did not have an easy life. She had to go to work full time to help make ends meet. He was a latchkey kid. Dr. Leman goes on to say, "Throughout my childhood, my mother was my champion. Even when, in the world's eyes, I was a failure..."

More about this incredible mom in the next blog -

Have a great day, Robin

Bringing History to Life

2008-10-06T20:42:00.011-05:00

Listed below are some things that we did to instill a sense of patriotism in our boys and bring history to life.
We displayed an American flag on a wall in our home.
We saved newspapers that recorded history making events. One of our sons collects newspapers on these days. He saved several newspapers from 9/11. We matted and framed the front page. By the way,be sure to purchase newspapers the day after the upcoming election for it will be a history making day.
Determine if there are any current or past family members who served in our Armed Forces. Then locate pictures of them in their military uniforms. Enlarge those pics to 8x10's. Frame and display them on the wall around the American flag.

We did this in one of our boys room. We have a picture of his grandfather in his navy uniform taken about 50 years ago. We also have a picture of his great-grandfather taken in his army uniform. This picture was taken around 1945 when he went to Japan to help with clean up after WWII. Visiting our son's room is like visiting a small museum. It instills a sense of pride in our family as well as loyalty to our country.

Have a great day, Robin

Faith Training: Raising Kids Who Love the Lord

2008-09-21T21:51:00.006-05:00

I have read many parenting books. One of the best I've ever read is by Joe White. It's called Faith Training: Raising Kids Who Love the Lord. In his book, he states that 80% of all high school Christian kids abandon their faith sometime during their college days. White gives concrete ways that parents can be effective faith trainers. From his own experience of raising 4 kids, he shares with us "how to pass the baton" from generation to generation. This is not a book of philosophy; it is a book filled with practical application.

The author encourages us by letting us know that it is never too late. In fact, he started late with some of his kids. He writes of a time when he was more involved in his work than with his family. A friend looked him in the eye and told him that he was messing up by not placing a higher priority on his wife and kids.

This book is a practical how-to book filled with anecdotes. It's encouraging as it gives all of us hope when it comes to raising kids who love the Lord. While this book is appropriate for parents of kids all ages, White addresses many of the tough issues facing our teens.

Have a blessed day, Robin

Study Skills: A Must for Academic Success

2008-09-16T16:02:00.008-05:00

Being a lifelong learner is a discipline we all should cultivate even into adulthood.The best learning takes place when several senses are tapped into (visual, auditory, kinesthetic). Below are ways to learn new material as well as review for tests.
Read and take notes.
Read aloud.
Organize information.
Listen and take notes.
Recopy notes highlighting important information.
Write out info and then rewrite it over and over.
Use index cards both white and colored as flashcards - great for memorization.
Use time in the car or while exercising to listen to lectures or audio books.
Start a study group - This works well when it doesn't become a social event. I don't think I could have passed my comprehensive exams for my master's degree without weekly study group meetings.
Review - review - review. Repetition helps us to remember.
These methods of studying tap into all styles of learning. This is just a sampling as there are many more to add to this list.
Have a great day, Robin

A Key to Learning

2008-09-09T15:29:00.014-05:00

Good study habits are a great skill to master at any age. I didn't learn any study skills until my junior year in high school. A good friend who was a straight A student taught me how to study. I still use some of the skills she taught me as well as some tips I have picked up along the way. Part of the learning process and developing good study habits come with knowing what kind of learner you are. There are those who are auditory learners (learn by hearing) and those who are visual learners (learn by reading or seeing). There are also kinesthetic learners (learn by touching or doing). The best learning (studying) takes place when all of these methods are used.

In her book, Home-Life: The Key to Your Child's Success at School, Cheri Fuller writes about the different learning styles. She tells how to determine which learning style(s) you or your child has. She also gives activities and methods of studying that fit each style of learning.

Tips on how to study are coming soon.

Have a great day,Robin

Increase your vocabulary: curmudgeon
Would you say thank you if someone called you a curmudgeon?
Check www.m-w.com for the answer.

Don't Have "Roast Teacher" for Dinner

2008-08-29T22:13:00.010-05:00

I have watched this happen at football games for years. Moms sit in the stands and discuss their children's teachers. The conversation begins on a positive note. However, it's not long before the conversation takes a turn. It's even worse when "roast teacher" is served for family dinner. Make an effort to flee from this temptation. When parents criticize teachers, principals, and administrators in front of the children, it takes away the credibility of the person in authority. For example, if a child hears a parent say they don't think this is a good homework assignment and they don't know why Mrs. Jones assigned it. The child no longer sees the value in the homework and will not try to make a good grade. A parent has to power to strip away the credibility of a teacher, principal as well as a pastor or Sunday School teacher. A parent has the power to strip away the value of homework assignments. Be careful with this power. Use it to lift up those who are in authority over your children. Work to present a united front with the teacher.

If you have a hearfelt concern regarding your child's teacher, don't visit with others about it. Schedule an appointment to visit with the teacher. That's a courtesy that teachers and others in authority have earned.

Have a blessed weekend, Robin

Don't Give Up - Keep on Keepin on....

2008-08-24T22:29:00.000-05:00

I have a friend who has been married to his wife for 56 years. His wife has been sick for a while and he takes care of her. I commented to him that she is blessed to have a husband to care for her during her prolonged illness. It appears that they have quite a love story. Below I have quoted parts of his email response:

"No two people were as ignorant at age 22 and 21 than the two of us when we got married. Our youngest son observed that he has never seen two married people so poles apart in everything as we are. In our younger days, God put me through the wringer which she had to go through with me. Probably 80%-90% of women would have left me at that time. But she stuck in there.

"A love story? It's a story of two very opposite people who stuck together in marriage and faithfulness through a lot of hard difficult times. If being a jerk was grounds for divorce, my wife would have surely left me a long time ago. So now, I gladly take care of her."

What an inspiration they are to those of us in the trenches of life.

So whatever it is that you have commited to - God, spouse, kids, parents, friends, job, finances - don't give up.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Gal. 6:9

Have a blessed day, Robin

What is it with this Y chromosome?

2008-08-17T13:56:00.004-05:00

I just don't get it. I am a girl. I am afraid of roller coasters, high ropes courses, snakes and the list goes on and on. It seems that this weekend there's been an extra dose of the Y chromosome in my house.

On Saturday, one of the boys told me all about his adventures the night before. It seems that he went motorcycle riding with a friend. He told me where all they went and how fast they drove. He beamed as he told me how much fun he had. I couldn't bring myself to ask him if he wore a helmet. Deep down, I knew the answer. Of course, from there he went on to tell me how long he thought it would take him to save up for a motorcycle and how much gas he would save. While I am very frugal, I didn't buy the "saving gas" logic. Desperately, I tried to think of a way to bribe him, threaten him or even ground him from motorcycle riding.

Today when we arrived home from church, our other son met me at the door. He was leaving to ride in an airplane with a friend (a real airplane!). This friend just got his pilot's license. As if riding in a airplane isn't enough, he told me his friend was going to practice his taking offs and landings. Now - I don't know much about flying but isn't that when most accidents happen? I tried desperately to think of some way to bribe him, threaten him or even ground him from airplane flying.

My husband (yet another Y chromosome) wouldn't let me bribe them, threaten them or ground them since they are almost 22 years old.

So - I have to wonder what is it that the Lord is trying to teach me? When I get the answer to this question, I will write a bestselling book.

Until then, I will continue to invest in haircolor and Aleve as well as spend time in prayer daily.

Have a great week and enjoy the Y chromosomes in your life,

Robin

Tips for Talking to Teachers - Part I

2008-08-13T16:25:00.014-05:00

With more than 20 years experience in education and administration, I observed many dos and don'ts in the dynamics of parent and teacher communication. At times, it can be a very awkward situation - perhaps even a prescription for disaster. Most teachers are devoted to their students and passionate about their careers. As parents, we are passionate about our children (to put it mildly). Although parents and teachers have the best of intentions, our passions can collide.Throughout the month, I will give you some tips to talking with teachers.

Next week, many of you will go to "meet the teacher." I remember when I was a kindergarten teacher and we had "meet the teacher" day. With 45+ adults and children waiting to meet me, a parent backed me in the corner (literally) and told me about her son's dysfunctional family situation. She went on to tell me that because of this situation he will struggle in school. Hmmm...What's wrong with this picture? First of all, she did this in front of her son. So he listened to his mom tell of how he is going to struggle. Secondly, by the end of the night after more conversations than I could count, all I could remember is that one of my students had a real sad homelife. I couldn't remember which one.

You may have a heartfelt concern that you feel the teacher needs to be aware of (learning difference, illness, family situation, etc.). If so, wait a couple of weeks into the school year. Then schedule a private meeting with the teacher either face to face or by phone. (Most teachers will specify their preferred method of communication.) Keep in mind that email is never the best way to communicate sensitive issues.

Lastly, go out of your way to be kind on "meet the teacher" day. While you are walking in excited and refreshed, chances are the teacher is exhausted (although he/she won't show it). Most teachers spend hours getting their rooms ready for the big day.

Have a blessed day, Robin

Sending Our Kiddos Off to College

2008-08-03T16:44:00.004-05:00

My husband often says, "Where has the time gone?" We felt this way when we took our boys to college that first year. It seemed like just yesterday that we were changing diaipers, going to ball games and reminding (fussing at) them to clean up their rooms. Here are some tips to letting go:

Keep in mind that our kids are much more resilient than we give them credit.

Don't be upset if/when they call home in tears due to homesickness. Expect this to happen. It's normal.

The 1st semester can be difficult both academicallly and socially. Developing good study habits and making new friends are adjustments for most.The 2nd semester usually goes much smoother.

As parents, we have been faithful to meet the needs of our kids all of these years. Without mom and dad nearby, this time of life allows for them to experience God's faithfulness firsthand.

Lastly, it's likely that your college student will walk you out to the car and hug you good-bye. If you remember (through the tears), grab your camera and snap a picture as he/she walks away. I did that and it made for a very special picture to be placed in my journal.

I'm sure others have some helpful hints as well. Feel free to add to the list.

Have a blessed day, Robin

Heading off to Kindergarten, College or Somewhere in Between - Part 2

2008-08-03T16:09:00.012-05:00

Reggie the Blog Dog wants you to check out the picture on the right and then read his comment. He has some exciting news.

The first few weeks of college can be unsettling for any student - even the most popular confident kiddo. It is uncharted territory. Doug's first weekend at college was full of unknowns. First of all, his brother and his roommate were not on campus. Dan came home to get his wisdom teeth out. His roomie was finishing a trip to Europe. With no friends and no transportation, he was "stuck" at school the entire weekend. As a mom, I worried about him day and night. Although I didn't admit it to anyone at the time, deep down I wanted to go to the school and rescue him from the unknown and bring him home. Here's the funny part of the story. Doug called Saturday night and asked if we were grilling (like we usually do). He wanted to bring home a new friend (or should I say have the new friend bring him home). That weekend we met Doug's new friend Matt who is an amazing young man. Here's the point - while I was at home worrying day and night, Doug was making new friends.

Whether our kids are beginning kindergarten or college or are somewhere in between, how much time do we waste worrying about things that never happen or that we have no control over? Here are some thoughts from Linda Dillow's book, Calm My Anxious Heart:

We can worry or we can trust the Trustworthy One. We can't do both.

When we worry, we're saying, "God can't."

Worry has more to do with perspective than circumstances.

Contentment is a state of the heart not a state of affairs.

We commit sin when we worry. (Ouch! I don't like that one.)

Have a blessed day, Robin

Heading to Kindergarten, College, or Somewhere in Between - Part I

2008-07-30T20:04:00.008-05:00

I have many friends who will be sending their kids to college in a few weeks. I remember when we did that several years ago. It was a disaster. We pulled into the college campus. We had 3 cars filled to the top. Each of the boys had his car, and we had ours. We were in a long line of cars waiting to be checked in and sent to the appropriate dorm. It was a hot Texas day - 100+ degrees. Our cell phone rang and it was Doug. He was a couple of cars behind us in the long line. He sounded tense. We looked in our rear view mirror. His truck had died and smoke was everywhere. He was holding up the entire line! Needless to say, he had his share of stares. What a way to be welcomed to your college campus for the first time! That was 3 years ago and Doug survived the experience. That's just Part 1 of the story. I will continue with Part 2 next time.

Sending our kiddos to college stirs within us a mixture of emotion. This mixture of emotion includes worry, reflection, worry, anxiety, worry, and excitement. Then there's the questions: Were we strict enough? Were we too strict? Did we teach them everything they need to know about people and life? Do they know how to iron, scrub a toliet, read a map, buy groceries? Relax and enjoy these next few weeks. I will share some tips in an upcoming post.

Have a great day, Robin

Down Time - What's That?

2008-07-26T14:46:00.007-05:00

Due to our fast-paced lifestyle, we don't place a high priority on "down time." In fact, some of our kiddos don't even know what it is. It is time set aside to be alone and read, walk, play quietly, listen to the radio, or simply rest. It may not be called down time. It may be called rest time or nap time. Whether we realize it or not, down time is essential for all of us. It refreshes and rejuvenates us. When you have kids involved in activities and going many different directions, it is more of a challenge to find this time. Ideally, a short period of down time each day is best. However, during a busy seaon of life, several times a week might have to be sufficient. One idea is to work in a down time after a regularly scheduled part of the day. For example, right after a meal, first thing in the morning, or the last part of the day may be best. Some days the afternoon might work well.

While growing up, most days our boys had a period of down time. Even now as young men, they get grumpy if they haven't had some alone time to refresh and rejuvenate. Although our kids may complain about being sent to their rooms to rest or play quietly, it is a habit they will learn to look forward to and appreciate.

Have a great day, Robin

The Mom Test

2008-07-22T20:18:00.005-05:00

A friend sent this to me some time ago. I don't know if it is true or not but it's fun to read.

I was walking with my 4 year old daughter. She picked up something off the ground and started to put it in her mouth. I took the item away from her and asked her not to do that.
"Why?" my daughter asked.
"Because it's been on the ground, you don't know where it has been, it's dirty, and probably has germs," I replied.
At this point, my daughter looked at me with total admiration and asked, "Momma, how do you know all of this stuff? You are so smart."
I was thinking quickly. "All moms know this stuff. It's on the Mom Test. You have to know it, or they don't let you become a Mom."
We walked along in silence for 2-3 minutes, but she was obviously pondering this new information.
"Oh...I get it!" she beamed, "So if you don't pass the test you have to be the dad."
"Exactly," I replied with a big smile on my face.

Have a great day, Robin

Great Memories of Frozen Pizza and Perfect Kids

2008-07-18T13:18:00.006-05:00

When Doug was 9 years old, I told him that we were going to have frozen pizza for dinner. He gave me a puzzled look and said, "Well, can't you warm it up first?"

When Dan was 8 years old, I was telling him good night. We were about to say his prayers. I asked him if he wanted to ask God to forgive him for anything that he had said or done wrong that day. He thought for a minute, smiled and with great relief said, "No sins today!"

These words are precious memories. I'm glad that I took the time to write down these anecdotes 10+ years ago when they happened. Otherwise, I would never be able to remember them. (Face it, I can't remember what I had for lunch today.) I wish I had written more. There were times when (in writing) I poured my heart out to the Father over a deep concern. Just the other day, I read of a time when I was worried about one of the boys. He was in the 8th grade. (Junior high can be a nightmare, can't it?) I didn't approve of some of his friends. I pleaded with the Lord to give me wisdom and to deliver him from this situation. Now I can look back and see how the Lord answered my heartfelt concern in greater ways than I could have ever imagined.

While recording these special moments takes time, it isn't meant to be one more chore. All it takes is a notebook and a pen. I have a friend who sets her spiral notebook next to her bed. Occasionally, she jots some notes in it at the end of the day. I have another friend who has a notebook for each of his kids and grandkids. On special occasions, he presents his family members with a completed journal of his thoughts, his special memories, and his prayers. It's never too late to start. When I thumb through the pages of the past, I am reminded of the many times God has been faithful even when I haven't.

Have a great day, Robin

Great Book Recommendations for Teens and Adults

2008-07-15T14:16:00.012-05:00

Sometimes it's difficult to find non-fiction books that our teens may enjoy reading.The following books are autobiographies of men who overcame incredible obstacles. These books are best suited for teens and adults.

Gifted Hands - This is the story of Dr. Ben Carson who was mentioned in the previous blog. This is a great book particularly for anyone considering the medical field. Dr. Carson shares the difficulties of his childhood and how he overcame them. As a pediatric neurologist, he has treated children for seizure disorders as well as separated conjoined twins. He shares stories of his patients in a way that will keep you on the edge of your seat. His life is an inspiration.

Twice Pardoned - This is the moving story of Harold Morris. Back in the 60's, as a teenager he hung out with the wrong crowd. His "friends" committed a murder for which he was blamed. Morris unjustly spent the next 10 years in prison. While parts of the book are sad, it is a beautiful story of redemption. There are many valuable lessons for teens. There's also a video available called Twice Pardoned: An Ex-Con Talks to Parents and Teens. It can be found online as well as some Blockbuster stores.

The Persecutor - This is another moving story about the life of Sergei Kourdakov. Sergei was taken from his parents and raised in a Russian orphanage in the 60's. He has an incredible life story. Sergei went from persecuting Christians to becoming one. Also, much is learned about the Russia culture. I thought the book was captivating.

While all of these books promote Christian values, Twice Pardoned and The Persecutor contain some violent parts due to the nature of their stories.

Have a blessed day, Robin

One of My Favorite Moms

2008-07-11T14:28:00.005-05:00

Even though I haven't met her personally, one of my favorite moms is Sonja Carson. She is the mom of pediatric neurosurgeon Ben Carson. Sonja became a single mom of 2 boys at a young age. She worked 2-3 jobs as a maid to provide for her boys. As a 5th grader, Ben brought home failing grades. Sonja asked the Lord to give her wisdom and to show her what she should do.

Sonja called her boys together and told them that they were to turn off the tv. They were to read 2 books from the library each week and write book reports on them. The reports were to be read aloud to her. (The boys didn't know it at the time but Sonja didn't know how to read.) Needless to say, the boys were not happy. Ben said they were "horrified." Because his mom took the high road, Ben went from being labeled as the class dummy to excelling academically. Both he and his brother earned college degrees. At the age of 33, Dr. Carson became the youngest chief of pediatric neurosurgery in the United States. He is known for successfully separating twins conjoined at the head.

It would have been easy for Sonja to feel sorry for her boys. After all, they didn't have a dad in the house. They didn't have any money. They didn't have a mom at home very much because she worked a lot. Instead she made the hard choice at the time in exchange for the great payoff later. Dr. Carson said, "Thanks to God and a courageous mother; a poor kid from the streets of Detroit has been able to take part in medical miracles."

This is an encouragement to all of us. Sometimes we have to give up the "Most Fun Mom" award and take the high road. Let me be the first to admit that this is much easier said than done especially during those junior high and high school years. Hang in there and take the high road on the things that matter. You can do it! You are not alone. Then you can look forward to the great payoff later.

Have a blessed day, Robin
Source: Mothers of Infuence published by Honor Books

Something to Think About...

2008-07-08T16:44:00.004-05:00

I was reading a book this week called Spiritual Mothering by Susan Hunt and came across this quote:

"The truth is that we cling [to our children] because we are trying to get our security and significance from the wrong place."

Yikes! That was painful for me to read. I know that I have been guilty of this in the past. I pray that I have moved beyond that at this point. It's so easy to get our significance from raising our children. We invest so much of our time, energy and emotion in them. However, when we get our significance from our children, we create a huge problem. What happens when they misbehave? embarrass us? grow up and move away? Our security can't come from our husbands either. Our significance must come from the fact that we are daughters of the King. When we allow this truth to penetrate our inmost being, this gives us great freedom to do whatever it is that God has called us to do.

Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God...John 1:12

Have a blessed day, Robin