Ordinary Inspirations for the everyday Wife, Mommy, & Homemaker

Song: Five Minute Friday

2013-05-17T07:15:00.003-07:00

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Some days I can't find the melody.

I drag myself out of bed and the tunes can't be found.

Other days, I get my perspective squared away and find the song within my heart once again.

A kiss on the forehead.

A child’s hand raised high in praise.

Mornings where I say, it is well with my soul in the midst of chaos and noise and the ugly I find beauty and a song.

A newborn baby … the smell, the touches, the fragile life.

Old piano keys, cracked and broken… tell a story of years of practice, couples singing together, Christmas carols floating in the air.

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Little girls singing into hairbrushes imagining they are on a lit up stage.

A bride wearing white…. ready to open the doors to a new life where two are made one.

Fresh flowers in mason jars.

Crisp morning air on a front porch.

Rascal Flatts in my ears… oh how I love thee.

Rays of golden sun that melt into moonlight hanging on rusted fence posts.

Fast paced days slowed down. Family gathered together with a room filled with the song of laughter.

When days fade to black and white and imprint themselves onto minds like canvas.

Above the noise where anxious hearts dissolve into calm hearts strummed to sleep by God’s peace.

Deserted dirt roads with my love.

Feet on the dashboard, hair blowing with the wind.

True love… when you find it… the kind that hurts so much … deep down in your gut and turns into butterflies for a lifetime.

When you know you've found the one whom your soul loves and you were meant to walk out the rest of your life with, hand in hand.

Long lost dreams pointing to their destiny once and for all.

Life… a beautiful novel written in each day, whether we pick up the pen or not, God is writing a story. May the words on the page today be a beautiful song… whether it’s rainy or sunny in my heart, tune my heart to sing your praises, Lord Jesus!

Linking with FIVE MINUTE FRIDAY today... love that community!

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Comfort: Five Minute Friday

2013-05-10T10:44:00.003-07:00

*Writing for 5 minutes straight about the word prompt this week: COMFORT

GO

My husband woke up yesterday in all sorts of DIS-comfort. I heard him moaning and groaning and rolling around next to me in bed. This lasted for a good hour. I could have told him I told you so, as just yesterday afternoon I had him in the car on the way to emergency. He told me he didn't want to go, so I pulled the car up in front of Urgent Care instead (a reasonable compromise in my mind). I proceeded to get out of the car, and head into Urgent Care, but my lagging patient was still in the passenger seat of the car.

Are you coming?!? (Of course I said this in my most patient, loving, and submissive wifey-voice possible). RIGHTTTTTTTTTT.

Yup, you guessed it... no Urgent Care for my manly husband either. Back home we went. If my sweet husband wasn't in so much pain, I may have just used the I told you so card; a few times over. But I didn't (wink wink). I felt too bad.

I really felt like the roles were reversed as I sped to the hospital in the pouring down rain dodging traffic. I just thought I might have a baby delivered by the sound of pain my husband was in!

Long story short, we are pretty sure he passed the kidney stone (which apparently feels like delivering a small child) on the way to the hospital.

So we got the lovely opportunity of sitting in that oh-so comfortable (NOT) waiting room at the E.D for just over 2.5 hours. When the lady behind the desk finally called my husband's name, we proceeded to follow another lady with a clipboard behind doors and winding, narrow hallways full of smells, screams and more groaning and moaning.

We got stuck in a room split in two by a thin curtain for which we got some serious entertainment for the next 3 hours. We listened as a sweet old lady with dementia, diabetes and all sorts of other issues called out for Anthony, Jane, and a bunch of other people to get her out of bed. She passed all sorts of noises, sang happy birthday, merry Christmas, and spouted off loud profanity and verbal assaults. Amusing to say the least!

So my day yesterday, and my sweet-non-compliant-husband's day yesterday, was anything but COMFORTABLE!

STOP

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LACE, JEAN JACKET, & BOOTS WIWW POST

2013-05-08T05:36:00.000-07:00

I haven't been around much lately and I've missed it! This week I played dress up at my Mom's house!

Jean Jacket- American Eagle
Necklace- Fashion Bug
Belt- Fashion Bug
Boots- DSW
Lace Skirt- Find the exact skirt on ETSY >>>> HERE

Linking with the Pleated Poppy!

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Brave

2013-05-03T06:43:00.003-07:00

I use to think bravery was only for the person going off to war overseas. I think of movies like Pearl Harbor that tug at our heart strings and motivate us to be better. Laying all down on the line for the sake of another.

But that is what I do everyday as a Mama... that is what you do, sweet Mom!

Each day is a battle in and of itself. To fight the selfishness to stay under covers, under masks, and under my own will and way. It's laying down my life for the sake of these little souls, right here and right now.

You are investing into future generations, raising up these little ones. The mundane tasks get old fast, but woven into the mundane is real life and love poured out.

Keep investing...
Keep seeking the Kingdom of God first...
Keep laying down your selfishness for the greater good...
Keep being real in front of your children...
Keep bending down on knee and speaking gently into little eyes...
Keep reading them stories and engaging in playfulness...
Keep loving them right where they are at...
Keep on keeping on...

This is true bravery! You go to the front lines of the battlefield each and every day, and I'm so proud of you!

Linking up with Five Minute Friday

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Five Minute Friday Word Prompt: FRIEND

2013-04-26T06:31:00.002-07:00

I thought about researching some bible verses about friendship, slapping a few feel-good, cutesie quotes on here, but I can't. My heart is heavy today.

"Often our most basic sense of well-being stems from our connectedness and sense of being unconditionally loved by the significant people in our lives."~ Sally Clarkson

Friendships have the ability to bring healing and restoration, but also offer some of the deepest wounds and hurts.

Do you have friendships that are in need of mending? This could look like friendships with:

your spouse
a girlfriend
your children
your Heavenly Father

We are all wounded people, walking aimlessly about seeking for a miraculous balm to our souls. From the deepest parts of us we seek to be understood and accepted. When it is not received by another, we grieve. I grieve. Don't wall off your heart because it's been hurt; that will only do more damage.

If your physical relationships are in need of mending and it seems out of your control to fix, turn it over to God. God is in the business of healing, mending, restoring, making new, and bringing dead things back to life! He is always pro-restoration and never is for any type of lasting rift in a relationship.

Psalm 133:1 "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is

For brethren to dwell together in unity!"

Linking with FIVE MINUTE FRIDAY

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My Thoughts On Fasting

2013-04-24T07:32:00.002-07:00

I LOVE the perspective from The Message version on fasting (Isaiah 58:6-12):

^6-9“This is the kind of fast day I’m after:
    to break the chains of injustice,
    get rid of exploitation in the workplace,
    free the oppressed,
    cancel debts.
What I’m interested in seeing you do is:
    sharing your food with the hungry,
    inviting the homeless poor into your homes,
    putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad,
    being available to your own families.
Do this and the lights will turn on,
    and your lives will turn around at once.
Your righteousness will pave your way.
    The God of glory will secure your passage.
Then when you pray, God will answer.
    You’ll call out for help and I’ll say, ‘Here I am.’

A Full Life in the Emptiest of Places

9-12 “If you get rid of unfair practices,
    quit blaming victims,
    quit gossiping about other people’s sins,
If you are generous with the hungry
    and start giving yourselves to the down-and-out,
Your lives will begin to glow in the darkness,
    your shadowed lives will be bathed in sunlight.
I will always show you where to go.
    I’ll give you a full life in the emptiest of places—
    firm muscles, strong bones.
You’ll be like a well-watered garden,
    a gurgling spring that never runs dry.
You’ll use the old rubble of past lives to build anew,
    rebuild the foundations from out of your past.
You’ll be known as those who can fix anything,
    restore old ruins, rebuild and renovate,
    make the community livable again.

WHEN YOU FAST:

1) It shouldn't be for your own glory.

2) It should be God-focused.

3) It should break the chains of injustice and bondage.

4) God wants you to be others-minded.

5) Give to the poor.

6) Be available to your own family.

7) Get rid of unfair practices.

8)Quit blaming victims.

9) Stop gossiping about other people's sins.

10) Be generous with those who are hungry.

11) Start giving yourself to the down-and-out.

             WHEN YOU FAST CORRECTLY:

1) The lights will turn on!

2) Your life will turn around at once.

3) Righteous living will pave the way.

4) God will secure your passage.

5) When you pray, God will answer you.

6) Your life with glow in the darkness.

7) You shadowed life will be bathed in sunlight!

8) God will show you where to go.

9) He will give you FULL life in the emptiest of places.

10) He will give you strength (firm muscles and strong bones).

11) You'll be like a well-watered garden- blooming!

12) You will be like you will be like a bubbling spring.

13) Old rubble in your past will be used to rebuild and make new!

14) God will use you to fix lives for His glory!

15) You will restore, rebuild and renovate for His honor and praise.

       SOME THINGS YOU COULD FAST FROM:

sugar

media

processed foods

television

computer

things that bind you

strongholds in your life

video games

spending too much money

    "Fasting should always be paired 

with the reading of God's Word and prayer!"

"It was believed in the earlier days that people spend a lot of their time and energy in procuring, preparing, cooking, eating and digesting food. The effects of certain food on our body may make our minds dull or even agitated. By abstaining from eating or by eating light food, the otherwise pre-occupied mind is able to focus on spiritual thoughts and stay close to God. Hence, on certain days people decide to save time and energy and entertain noble thoughts."

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Stop Focusing On Submission In Marriage

2013-04-20T06:12:00.003-07:00

I think we need to stop focusing on submission in marriage. Hear me out...

There is so much talk about submission these days, especially within circles and labels slapped Christian. I believe in submission and I understand and agree with the analogy of Christ and the church. I have by no means arrived nor think I have all the answers.

What I do know is, there is always safety and freedom when we do things God's way (even if I don't fully understand God's reasoning). He says in Isaiah 55:8, my thoughts are nothing like your thoughts, says the LORD. My ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.

Mankind, in our futile and earthly nature, have a way of taking the very essence of what God intended in scripture; the pure and beautiful and lovely nature of it, and morphing it into what is, frankly, kind of yucky and putrid!

Over time, we have seen submission turned into an excuse to treat women as less than and vice versa, for women to bark orders at the men, sheepishly hiding in a corner. Neither is right, nor God-honoring. Different roles within the home should never mean treating someone less than important or valuable.

If a husband is to essentially mimic Christ, and the wife (bride) equals the Church, it should be done the correct way. Otherwise, it gives Christ and the Church a bad rap, ya know? Sadly, it has!

If our marriages are going to portray the love of Christ, here is what I think it should look like:

{What True Submission Within Marriage Should Look Like}

A beautiful pair of two imperfect people dying to self daily.
Best friends doing life together for God's glory.
Two sinners daily laying down their pride.
The husband loving his wife so much that he is willing to lay down his life for her.
When the husband loves his wife this much, he will lead with love and gentleness.
When the husband loves his wife this much, he won't use his role to lord over her and make her feel less than important.
A wife responds to her husband with heartfelt respect and honor.
She sees her role within the home as valuable (equally valuable).
Two people that view themselves on the same team.
Two people striving together for the gospel's sake.
Never using his or her role as an advantage for the flesh.
Never using his or her role to promote self and diminish the other spouse.
The husband creating a place of safety and trust within the home.
The wife being willing to listen and follow the husband's lead.
Two people who cheer one another on.
The husband encourages and promotes the wife's gifts and abilities.
The wife praises and builds up the husband.
The husband's leadership role should equal his ability towards servanthood.
A relationship defined by humility, love and respect.

It seems that if we went into marriage focused on walking like Christ and being obedient to Him in our individual lives as husband and wife, it would take care of all the rest. Two people walking a Spirit-filled life should automatically become a picture of submission, lived out!

If you are struggling in your marriage today, why not start with getting things right before the Lord individually. Then, come together, hand in hand, and do life together for God's glory.

What if one spouse is willing to get things right and the other is not? Don't give up! Continually show love and kindness and ask God for wisdom. Each marriage relationship is different.

Verses to study out for yourself:

Ephesians 5:21-25

Philippians 2:3-8

1 Peter 3:1-7

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Here, It's Changed My Life

2013-04-12T13:45:00.001-07:00

It's hard to imagine that I finally have arrived here. Here, at my healthy weight I was made to be at. Here, where I don't need to worry about my weight getting in the way of God's hopes and dreams for me. It might sound shallow for you, a person that has never struggled in this area. But for me, it is a huge deal. Like life-altering huge.

Here, at my healthy weight I:

am free to be me
have realized the damage that emotional eating can bring
have so much more energy
am no longer in bondage to food
believe it when my husband says I'm beautiful
love to go outside and be active with my children
can minister to others without feeling the heaviness of guilt from my sin of gluttony
can be an example for other women to follow (truly humbling)
am looking forward to running some more 5K races
wake up in the morning motivated to begin my day
go to bed satisfied and content
no longer live to eat, but eat to live
can enjoy relationships more than endless buffets and banquets
am fulfilling God's plans and dreams for my life

Who knew that so many women struggle in this area! I always thought I was alone. I've realized that I'm not. As Christian women, we are told to care more about our inward beauty than our outward beauty. Yes, I agree with this statement. But, what I've found is, losing this weight and being freed in this area has allowed my inner beauty to shine brighter on the outside. People say I have a glow about me and I can only attribute that to the mercy and grace of God's goodness. His hand upon my life has led me to this point... here today. He's always loved me, walked beside me hand in hand, gently offering redemption and freedom. I'm so glad I finally listened and have walked the path of freedom!

Corinthians 2:14 "But thanks be to God, who in Christ always

leads us in triumphal procession,

and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere."

Linking up with Five Minute Friday

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On How We Should Deal With Disagreements

2013-04-11T07:46:00.005-07:00

If you've lived long enough, you've experienced some sort of conflict. Whether it's a misunderstanding, a difference of opinions, or down right being mistreated. Let's face it... it hurts!

How do you respond to hurt? Do you:

Retaliate
Be hurtful back
Argue
State your point
Get feisty
Can you feel your heart beat faster
Do you toss and turn at night
Do you rehearse conversations in your mind

We all get hurt. We won't all get along or agree. That's just life and a realistic outlook. But how are we suppose to respond? What's the biblical, God-honoring way we are to handle these very personal, real-life events?

Ask yourself the following questions:

1) Does this even warrant a response?

2) Is this something that will personally affect me?

3) Can I speak the truth in love without sounding hypocritical?

4) Can I come across in a prayerful and humble way?

5) Will this edify and uplift the Body of Christ?

Even when we say yes, and move forward, we can still be misunderstood. What do we do then?

Realize that it is only the Holy Spirit's job to convict and change a heart.
Realize He may be doing a work in your own heart during the process.
Pray for that person and ask for a peaceable attitude towards them.
In the heat of the moment, don't ever speak words that you will regret.
Always ask God for wisdom and a grace-giving outlook.
Don't let it affect your relationship with your Lord and Savior, Jesus.
Seek to please Jesus first.
You can't change someone else's behavior, but you can change your own.

Relevant scripture related to this issue of strained relationships

within the body of Christ:

Ephesians 1:4-5

"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. ²Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. ³Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. ⁴There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; ⁵one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."

Psalm 133:1

"How wonderful and pleasant it is

when brothers live together in harmony!"

1 Corinthians 9:23

"I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings."

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The New Battles That Victory Brings

2013-04-06T10:25:00.001-07:00

Victory over any sin does not equal rest and relaxation on the tropical island of ignorant bliss. It is still very much a daily battle. It is when we forget that it is a battle and think we've arrived that we are blindsided. We can easily forget that it was the Lord who brought the victory and He alone Has the authority to grant us the power to overcome, day by day.

When I lost 45 pounds, I never imagined I'd feel so free! So much peace and joy! God has been reminding me that even though I've reached freedom over food addiction, it is still a daily battle. It is a daily battle to not grab chocolate or chips to comfort me when I'm feeling sad, lonely, bored, unappreciated, fearful, etc. Food is not meant to medicate my soul; Jesus is the only one that can heal my heart.

Arriving at any goal brings joy and freedom; but with it comes a whole new battleground of arrows to dodge. If we don't stay on guard, the enemy can use our freedom as an opportunity for future defeat.

So how do you and I remain guilt free, walking in freedom as enjoying the victory we've found?

Remember it is a daily battle.

The only way to remain victorious is to remember that victory is moment by moment. When we choose to be victorious it propels us forward towards the next challenge.

Remind yourself that you will never arrive.

Just because you've reached a goal, does not mean that you have arrived. If you struggle in a particular area, it most likely will always tempt you to some degree.

Stay humble.

Always stay humble and guard against pride. Pride is a tool the enemy uses time and time again to cause us to retreat.

Stay Spirit-filled.

If you are going to walk in freedom and live a victorious lifestyle over sin, it is imperative to stay in the Word of God and be communing with your Heavenly Father. Meditate and memorize scripture. Read the book of Proverbs. It is full of wisdom!

Guard your heart.

Guard your heart against any root of bitterness or stronghold that the enemy may use to get you thinking negative thoughts. Speak truth to yourself, based on the Word of God and what He has to say about you.

Be on the offense, not the defense.

I was watching my favorite team play in the March Madness tournament last week. The whole time they looked tired, sluggish, and just not up to par. The whole game they were constantly in defense mode, always trying to catch up. The other team was very much in control of the game, aggressive, and working hard towards the goal of winning the game. It got me thinking about my eating habits. When I get off track and start indulging in sweet treats and too many grains, I usually gain unnecessary weight and feel sluggish and miserable. Then it becomes a game of "catch up" and I'm on the defense once again. I love walking in the freedom of offensive mode! I can eat healthy food and enjoy a guilt-free mind. I'm much happier, have more energy and feel motivated to go out and live life!

Galatians 5:13-14

¹³For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. ¹⁴For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

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Five Minute Friday: After

2013-04-05T07:24:00.003-07:00

Hebrews 12:11

Amplified Bible (AMP)

¹¹For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness—in conformity to God’s will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God].

I don't like pain! I love comfy clothes, pleasant weather, peace in relationships, and good health.

But pain comes. If you are breathing, you have experienced pain. I love this verse in Hebrews. God loves me so much that He doesn't want to leave me simple-minded. His desire is that I would grow, and growth happens through trials.

I remember the pains in my legs and arms as a child. My mom explained that they were growing-pains. Really? I have to go through pain to get bigger?

Have you ever trained for a race or a marathon? It takes a lot of pain, stretching, and building endurance!

It's the same with our spiritual life. God loves us so much He doesn't want to leave us the same. Sometimes that means that we need to learn discipline and some hard life-lessons.

Are you experiencing spiritual growing pains today? It may not be pleasant now, but yield yourself to God and be willing and teachable...

Because, afterwards you will yield peaceable fruit! You will learn to think, act and become more like your Savior, Jesus!

*Linking up with Five Minute Friday

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I Have Some Exciting News For You

2013-03-30T13:18:00.001-07:00

For those of you have been following my weight loss journey over the past months, I have some EXCITING news!

If you want, pop over to The Grace & Strength Lifestyle over here and check it out!

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Broken

2013-03-29T07:00:00.003-07:00

WORD PROMPT: BROKEN

Imagine with me for a moment...

You are a beautiful glass vase upon a shelf.
You shine and glitter in the sunlight.
You sit there, completely sufficient to be beautifully dotted on and adored.
You are content with your purpose.

Until one day... someone walks by and trips.

Then knock you onto the ground and the beautiful glass vase you once were is no longer.
Now you are a scattered mess of broken, shattered pieces.

You have no ability in and of yourself to fix this mess.
You lay there, helpless, hopeless.

Until...you hear about a healer. A potter that can mend the most horrific of messes.
You realize you are in a desperate state; mentally defeated, and physically maimed.
You desire to be restored to wholeness so you cry out to the potter. His name is, Jesus.

Jesus, save me! I believe that you are the potter and I've heard you can restore broken messes! I am broken and in need of a Savior. I put my trust in YOU, Oh Lord!

And in an instant, in your weak, broken, vulnerable state, He scoops up your shattered edges and revives you.

You look down at yourself, and you are surprised to see there are no lines or seams where your edges were mended. You are more beautiful than before. Fully restored,like new!

Now you have a purpose! You are no longer just a vase, for He pours His living water into YOU, the vase. He places some freshly cut flowers down inside. Because of His living water within you, you are a life-giving vessel for His glory!

Jesus came to redeem YOUR broken places!

Life breaks and falls apart

But we know these are

Places where grace is soon to be so amazing

It may be unfulfilled

It may be unrestored

But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord

Just watch and see

It will not be unredeemed. ~Selah Lyrics

Linking up with FIVE MINUTE FRIDAY.

John 3:16-18

^"16For God so loved the world,that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. ¹⁸Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God."

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I Wore Lots Of Yellow This Week!

2013-03-26T23:58:00.000-07:00

Outfit #1-Yellow Polka Dots

scarf-etsy / earrings-target / shirt-old navy /jeans-target /shoes-target

Outfit #2-Flower Boot Socks & Teacup necklace

socks-etsy / dress-down east basics/ jacket-american eagle /

boots-walmart/ necklace-esty

Outfit #3-Multicolored Necklace

necklace-etsy / yellow tank-impel clothing/ sweater-thrifted/

jeans-sears/ brown heels-shoe department

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Raising Little Girls

2013-03-26T10:43:00.005-07:00

Our six year old girl was upstairs crying in her bedroom last night. I ruffled her pink and purple butterfly comforter and sat down next to her.

What's wrong honey? She told me she didn't know and that she just felt sad. Instead of going through all the reasons that I thought she might be sad, I simply asked her if she wanted a hug.

I pulled her onto my lap and hugged her. After about 20 seconds I asked her if she felt better.

Yeah, I do feel better Mommy. Thank you.

Sometimes all we need is a good hug! We all can feel sad, lonely, left-out and just plain "blah". A hug lets someone know that you are there and ready to listen to them.

I got out our Mama and Me Journal and asked her if she wanted to write in it. Here's how our conversation progressed.

Riley to Mommy: Dear Mommy, I love you. Thank you for cheering me up when I was sad and that's why I love you. Love, Riley

Mommy to Riley: Dear Riley, You're welcome. Sometimes I feel sad too and I don't know why. Hugs always make everything better! I love you. Love, Mommy

Riley to Mommy: Dear Mommy, I love you even when I get mad at you. I want to spend more time with you. I hope we can. Love, Riley

Mommy to Riley: Dear Riley, I'd love that! What would you like to do together more? Love, Mommy

Riley to Mommy: Dear Mommy, I want to go to the movie theater and drink soda and eat popcorn. Can we have popcorn tonight?

I love how her heavy and sad countenance turned around by just communicating with me. I always want to leave this door of communication open with her; especially when she enters those dreaded teen years!

How do you stay connected with your children as they grow out of childhood into their teen years? I would love to hear your ideas!

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Jennifer Dahl Designs Giveaway

2013-03-19T23:58:00.000-07:00

WE HAVE A WINNER: pomocanthus at hotmail dot com.

I instantly fell in love with Jennifer Dahl Designs! We are giving away the Winged Monogram Oval Bubble Charm Necklace by simply liking the facebook fan page here, and leaving a comment below that you did.

*Psssst! Anywhere you share this giveaway will earn you an extra entry!

In case you want to get started on purchasing some goodies, feel free to use this code below to receive 25% off your purchase!

sweater-thrifted Gap, jeans-Target, boots-American Eagle Outfitters, necklace-Jennifer Dahl Designs

This necklace is a perfect addition to any outfit (dressy or casual). It's chunky and fun yet delicate and feminine. Be sure to check out her other beautiful creations like soldered charms, round charms, hand stamped charms, custom charms, and more!

Contest will run through the weekend and then random.org will pick a winner! Go ahead and like the facebook page and leave a comment that you did below!

Linking up to WIWW over at The Pleated Poppy.

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The Day I Had Church In My Car

2013-03-19T13:12:00.002-07:00

I reached for him and scooped him up in my arms. He is the size of a five year old boy now but I manage to place him on my hip, kiss his cheek and tell him what a blessing he is. I spoke these words into him today:

"Do you know how much Mommy loves you? You are SO special to me. When you were in Mommy's tummy there was something wrong with you, but God chose to heal you!

You are such a miracle."

This boy has taught me so much about life and faith. The day I heard that I would have to weigh my options to carry him, I knew there were no options to weigh. God had a plan for this little boy's life! (You can read more about that story over here).

Just this morning on the way to our ladies bible study, he asked me a question in the car. What are those ropes up there?

I told him they were power lines that bring power to all those houses over there.

He then replied, what are those wooden poles that keep bumping into them?

I explained that they were the poles that were holding all the power lines up!

In that instant I had church right there in my car! God impressed on my heart how so many people see Him as bumping into their lives when in fact He is the very one that is holding them up and allowing their power to flow!

The wooden poles even look like a cross, in which my Savior Jesus bled and died. Praise His name!

Romans 5:8-10

"But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. ⁹And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. ¹⁰For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son."

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Rest: Five Minute Friday

2013-03-15T07:11:00.001-07:00

I rush here and there. Early mornings press hard and fast. They are abrupt and threaten my retreat to covers piled high over head to cancel out the light. Daylight peeks in and most mornings I crave the darkness, stillness and quiet of the night far more than the pressing demands that await.

A beautiful composition of lines and notes and clefts still require breaks and rest. I've heard little ones pound piano keys harsh and brash. There is no rest in their pounding. I've also been blessed to have my ears tickled by the art of a true musician. They play their music from deep within and their fingers dance across the keys and right into my soul. I can feel their passion and purpose. I hear the crescendos of life and they are always followed by a careful pause and rest.

Life pleads for rest. Without rest the soul will grow weary, burdened and void of radiant beauty.

May we all find rest as David penned in the 23rd Psalm,

He lets me rest in green meadows.

He leads me beside peaceful streams.

He renews my strength.

He guides me along right paths.

The dark paths are promised to come. The valley's deep where rest seems afar and calamity echos within the mountain peaks. It is in those times I'm beyond grateful for a Shepherd that walks close beside me. He does not rush ahead nor fall behind. His steps are steady with mine and His gentle hand is continually outstretched. He folds his fingers in my grasp and His smile is bright and promising.

He, my God, brings inner peace and rest. We break bread and feast upon a picnic basket full of blessings laid out in the presence of my enemies. Arrows fly overhead, and we feast on a checkered blanket of love.

He alone, is my rest. He is the musician of my heart. He is the gentle Shepherd that guides me up through the valley upon the mountain top once again. He is so very faithful and His promises are always true.

picture taken in Las Vegas last week:

Five Minute Friday Link

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PHOTO CREDIT

Let's Start A Praise Revival

2013-03-14T07:13:00.001-07:00

I'd love to start a praise revival! Revival begins within your own heart. Praise Him and your pity party will turn into beautiful worship! There are only two people invited to your pity party: you and the devil. {cue cuban shuffle music and dance moves}... can you picture partying with the devil? No fun! *side note: I love the Cuban Shuffle!

Read and meditate on this today:

Psalm 34:1-8

"1 I will praise the Lord at all times.

I will constantly speak his praises.

2 I will boast only in the Lord;

let all who are helpless take heart.

3 Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness;

let us exalt his name together.

4 I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me.

He freed me from all my fears.

5 Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy;

no shadow of shame will darken their faces.

6 In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened;

he saved me from all my troubles.

7 For the angel of the Lord is a guard;

he surrounds and defends all who fear him.

8 Taste and see that the Lord is good.

Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!"

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On How Facebook Is A Breeding Ground For The "F" Word

2013-03-13T09:47:00.002-07:00

If we allow it, Facebook can become a breeding ground for the "F" word: Failure. The clarification is if we allow it. Facebook can be a wonderful way to encourage and uplift and just make friends and build up the ones we have. But all too often this happens instead:

You are having one of those days and decide to get on facebook in order to feed your curiosity, boredom, and ego. Your ego is shot right to the dirt today, and you mindlessly type

w w w d o t f a c e b o o k d o t c o m.

You scroll and scroll through pictures of amazing photos and the latest and greatest recipes, do it yourself crafts with your kids and everyone else's best moments.

Your insides shrink.

You feel defeated.

You covet.

You compare.

You beat yourself up.

You look around at your messy house.

Your joy is snatched.

You start thinking negative thoughts.

You begin thinking bad about that person.

You wish your life was better.

You dream of having that person's dream life.

When in reality, not one of our lives are a dream.

Not one of our lives are picture perfect.

Facebook tends to show the picture perfect shot after 50 messed-up-crying-baby scenes.

So don't get on facebook if you have a critical spirit, judgmental attitude, or ready to compare yourself with others.

BE YOU! Whenever we compare ourselves with others, we aren't being who God had us be! Facebook does not make you a failure! You are so much more!

You are:

Fearless.

Forgiven.

Favored and Loved.

Fun.

Fabulous.

Faithful.

Don't let anything steal your JOY! Don't let the F in Facebook make you think you are a failure! Remember who you are in Christ. I think you are pretty amazing!

John 15:5-11

"⁵I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. ⁶If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. ⁷If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. ⁸By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. ⁹As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. ¹⁰If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. ¹¹These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full."

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What I Wore Favorite Outfits Of The Month

2013-03-13T05:07:00.002-07:00

This week I'm doing a recap of my favorite outfits over the past month. Which one is your favorite? I just love the What I Wore Wednesday Blog Hop over at The Pleated Poppy. I can't wait to check out all your fabulous outfits this week!

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To My Baby

2013-03-11T07:38:00.003-07:00

Your breath smells like heaven. I kiss your cheeks and tickle your sides and you explode with that infectious giggle. You steal my heart, over and over and over again.

You are getting taller and growing out of that cradle-in-my-arms stage. I let you give me open mouth smooches on my cheeks as the drool runs fast and my heart melts all the faster.

My eighteen-month old baby, can you stay just that? A baby?

Soon you will be riding bikes, scraping knees and climbing trees.

I love you, my sweet boy.

You have a feisty spirit and and a will that is strong. May you use this stubborn energy and gutsy strength for good. May you grow up to be a leader with convictions strong. May you lay down the reigns and harness that strength to the Father's will and way; for His glory.

A mother to a boy, there is nothing like it. May you always treat women like ladies and honor them like your Daddy does your Mommy.

I love you my sweet baby boy... for as long as I have you as a baby, I will cherish this time. I will bottle it up... moment by moment.

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Home- Five Minute Friday

2013-03-08T06:49:00.004-08:00

Home is comfy pajamas and a warm mug against a cold cheek.

Home is my three children piled high on my lap reading book after book.

Home is a date night at home with my love, cuddled on the couch.

Home is being able to giggle so hard that milk bubbles out your nose.

Home is music and candles and laughter.

Home is a safe haven from the storms of life.

Home is a place to welcome in the unlovable.

Home is a place to dwell by the fireside of unconditional love.

Home is a lighthouse atop jagged rocks and large waves with white foam.

Home is a place where the enemy tries to get a foothold, but I will not let him.

Home is a place that is cherished by my Jesus.

Home will be protected at all costs.

Home is where I leave and where I hope to always return.

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What I Wore-Week 5

2013-03-04T17:26:00.002-08:00

What is your biggest fashion fear? Mine was always meshing brown with black, but now I love it! I've seen a lot of you wearing polka dots with stripes or floral with some other bold choice... so what is it? What's your biggest fashion fear?

Outfit 1

earrings-target, necklace-lisa leonard, cardigan-thrifted target,
belt-thrifted, jeans-target, boots-sears, shoes-target

Outfit 2

earrings-walmart, sweater-thrifted target, vest-thrifted target,
jeans-target, boots-american eagle

Outfit 3

earrings-walmart , infinity scarf-EcoShag, shirt-old navy , belt-target, jeans-thrifted nine west, boots-roxy, knit boot cuffs-Daniela's Knit Shot

This INFINITY SCARF is so soft.

I just want to rub my face against it like a toddler does their blanket. But then I'd get makeup on it and it would be one big mess!

I digress...

If you want one of these

Charcoal Gray Stripped scarfs for yourself, go here.

trust me, you do!

These boot cuffs are a must! They go with pretty much any outfit or any boot choice!

Very well made, very cozy, very fashionable!

You can get the same pair over here.

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Let His Voice Speak Over Your Fears

2013-03-02T09:32:00.002-08:00

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