A Faithful Journey

When one book closes, another one opens

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

As the end of one wonderful reading challenge comes to an end, another one begins! I enjoy re-visiting Anne and Lucy Maud Montgomery's wonderful imagination every January as part of Carrie's challenge! I did manage to read Anne of Green Gables and get lost in her crazy world. L.M. Montgomery has a wonderful way of writing that really draws you in and paints such a clear picture of the characters and their surroundings, that it easy to imagine I am there with them!

I was also hoping to watch the first season of The Road to Avonlea. I borrowed it from the library, had all intentions of watching the whole 600 minutes, but, sadly, watched none! I tend to make more time for reading than I do watching tv! Hopefully I can get the chance to sit and watch it...someday!

As I have mentioned before, the Anne of Green Gables series is one of my all-time favorite series of books. However, Little House on the Prairie ranks right up there with it! I tend to tell people that I should have lived on the Little House on the Prairie and been sisters with Laura and Mary. I would have fit right in and still wish for that life now and again! I know the work was harder, but the times were much simpler and I long for that in my everyday life. Anyways...when I found out through the lovely Carrie that Barbara from Stray Thoughts is hosting her first ever Laura Ingalls Wilder reading challenge starting today, well you already know what I did! How could I turn away from another fabulous reading challenge?

I am hoping to read the following three Laura Ingalls Wilder books {and books inspired by her} in the month of February:

Little House on the Prairie {I would love to sit and read this with Emma, but I am not quite sure if she is ready for chapter books yet. I am still going to attempt it, however!}

West from Home: Letters of Laura Ingalls Wilder, San Francisco, 1915

The Wilder Life: My Adventures in the Lost World of Little House on the Prairie by Wendy McClure

West from Home and The Wilder Life have been in my TBR pile for far too long, so I will get to them, even if I have to read them in March when the challenge is over!

Thank you Barbara for hosting this long overdue challenge of another one of literatures most beloved storytellers!

If you would like to join in on the Laura Ingalls Wilder Challenge, then head on over to Stray Thoughts and link up!

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6-7

thankful for inspiration {and creativity}

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Thankfulness does not even begin to describe how I have been feeling lately! What started out as uncomfortable and sickness everyday, has finally grown into what I remember most about being pregnant. Joy! Complete Joy! And I am finally there-enjoying every moment! Anticipating the time that is coming soon enough when I can feel a little foot and little hands kicking me from within. One of the greatest joys, for me, of being pregnant!

"No one else will ever know the strength of my love for you. After all, you’re the only one who knows what my heart sounds like from the inside." ~ Author Unknown

With the return of joy and energy comes my need to be inspired. So much inspiration can be can be found in various places-from books and magazines to just sitting and looking at the world around us. It's euphoric, really. Finding happiness in the littlest of things. From yarns and fabrics to books and magazines. It all inspires in one way or another. I have yarn and fabric bins overflowing with inspiration and a bookshelf bursting with wonderful books. And I have had the chance lately to enjoy a little of it all! Going from weeks of pure exhaustation and feeling just ugh, I am thankful to have the desire to be creative again and getting back to doing the many things I love.

While God's hands are at work, weaving together the beautiful parts of my unborn child, who is already loved and cared for so much, my hands have been busy weaving together wonderful little knits full of love and anticipation for the next bundle to grace our home! Each of my children have handmade items made with love by mama, and of course, this child will be no different. And seeing that completed project, so tiny, handmade with so much love, I can barely contain my excitement! {and the huge grin on my face!} I am bursting with anticipation, not sure I am going to be able to wait 25 more weeks to slip my newest blessing into my woven, works of love.

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. ~ Psalm 139:1-14

When looking for inspiration, nothing inspires more that the Words of Jesus Christ. Changing me in ways I never knew I needed changing. Every time I open the Greatest Book, I learn something new. Even in the stories I read as a child, new things are revealed to me. And that is how He intended His words to be-living, breathing, and just as real and meaningful today as they were thousands of years ago.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work. ~ 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Starting a little late, but determined to count out my thankfulness this year, again-to reach 1000!

January 22-29
{1-21}

Freshly fallen snow
Hot cup of tea
Ephesians
Library full of books
Finding a new challenge
Basket full of yarn
Tiny baby booties
A growing middle
Sisterly love
Love's strong embrace
Being inspired
Old movies
Old books
Taking His direction
Encouraging Friends
Laughter
Soft, warm, wool socks
My sons sweetness
My daughters energy
My husbands humor
Love of family

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. ~ Colossians 3:9-10

In which I know He is talking to me!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

I've been trying to slow things down a bit and not "do" so much. I have a "must keep busy" nature about me and it is just not good. I need to just...be! And breath. And listen-taking heed to what is being said to me. Not ignoring it or thinking that "it can't be the answers I am looking for because it is just not making sense and I need more." But taking what I believe He is trying to tell me and applying it, everyday, to my life!

So, I am reading this for a review and it is opening up my mind and heart in so many more ways than I anticipated when I first said yes to the review. Then, I see this in my Twitter stream and how can I deny God's speaking to me? They both are discussing the importance of Bible memorization and that same sermon on that same Mount. And my next step was of course to download it and print it out and I am now in the process of memorizing that ever popular Sermon on the Mount! Praying as I go along to hear what God is trying to say to me through the verses in these chapters. God is so real in my life and I need to show appreciation for that realness more often than I do instead of feeling like He is just not listening anymore and that He gave up on me and my concerns and this crazy life that I love so much!

And I know that is not true-that He would ever give up on me. It is just the selfishness within me that is wanting God's direct plan and answer right now when I am ready for it-when I think I need it most and when I think it is most vital-instead of patiently waiting on Him and His perfect moment in time to show me what I need to know. To answer my questions, thoughts, and concerns, the way He deems fit!

And it is in the moment-when I finally surrender and sit still...in the quietness that is Him...and have it all revealed that true peace is found. It all makes sense and I am willing to sit and wait on Him...however long He may take! Because in the end, it will be right. It will be perfect. It will be His Will and His Plan, for me!

"For I know the plans I have for you." says the Lord. "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ~ Jeremiah 29:11

If you would like to join in with me and many others who are determined to memorize the complete Sermon on the Mount in a year with memorizing just 2-3 scriptures a week, then head on over to Ann's amazing blog and download the scripture cards for yourself!

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. ~ Isaiah 40:31

Adopted into the Family of Christ

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. ~ Ephesians 1:4-5

This verse in Ephesians has been on my heart and mind since reading it last week! God had our lives planned out before He even created the world! Talk about love and a Father who knows our heart and cares about our every need and want and desire! Then...not only did He plan everything out for us, He adopted us into the Family of Christ through sending His Only Son Jesus to die a sinless death for us, who are so full of sin!

There is truly no greater love; no greater sacrifice! If you do not yet know Him, my prayer for you today is that you get to know Him-for He loves you with an everlasting love! He does not care about your past, for He has come to deliver you from it and make you a new being in Him!

My life was forever changed the day I gave my life over to Jesus Christ! It was the best decision ever made and I am a proud Daughter of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

Photo Credit {editing mine}

The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. ~ Romans 8:16-17

Lately

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:30:00 +0000

Lately I have been admiring the beauty that is my little girl. It radiates from within and shines all over her face. Her love for others is already so prominent in her littleness and her compassion is astounding!

She has a huge heart for animals and babies...just like her mama! I even think she may have been praying for a new baby brother or sister longer than I have! And now those prayers have changed into, "please, Jesus, can I have a baby sister?" And oh how I pray that for her, for I am afraid her little heart may be crushed if she hears she is getting another brother! She does make one great big sister, however, and Caleb has said it many times how much he just loves Emma! And he too prays for a little sister, I believe because the one he already has is so wonderful!

I am learning through her that I need to embrace my children for who they are and not try and make them into what I want them to become! God has a plan laid out for their lives and my job is to nourish, protect, teach, and show love...lots and lots of love!

I will spend these little days playing and pretending and encouraging the love that radiates from her. I will allow her to love all animals and encourage her talks of wanting to grow up to be a Veterinarian. And I am anxiously awaiting the day when this new little one arrives and to see her mama instincts kick in and watch the love she already has for her new little sister {or brother} just light up the room!

Self taken potrait!

I am truly blessed! I cannot say it enough!

Linking up at The EO for Just Write

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love hepredestined us for adoption to sonshipthrough Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will. ~ Ephesians 1:4-5

A Jane Austen Devotional {review and giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

When I was contacted by PR by the Book about reviewing A Jane Austen Devotional published by Thomas Nelson, how could I say no! I was so happy to recieve this beautiful, hardcover cloth, devotional. The cover itself is worth putting on display on any bookshelf. {i just love a pretty book cover!}

A little about the devotional-

{from cover} For decades, the beautiful and classic works of Jane Austen have transported readers to a world of grace, wit, and simplicity. In this unique devotional, her writing is newly illuminated by showcasing the biblical insights on living and loving.

Through these pages, you can revisit timeless Christian values and reflect once again on the true meaning of love, honor, and godly character. It all begins with a stroll through the garden with Jane.

What I love most about this devotional is each day you read an excerpt from some of Jane's most popular novels like Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Emma...just to name a few. Then, each excerpt is paired with a scripture reference and discussed in a way to show the reader God's love through Jane's beautiful and often times, witty, words!

This devotional is done beautifully, like only Thomas Nelson can do. It would make the perfect accompaniment to any library of a Jane Austen fan!

Now for some fun news...especially for that Jane Austen fan! PR by the Book has offered one copy of A Jane Austen Devotional for one of my readers to win! To enter, leave me a comment stating that you would like to win! {simple, right?} Giveaway open to US residents only and ends on Tuesday, January 24. Winner will be chosen via random.org.

**Giveaway closed! Winner was Stephanie! Thank you to all who entered!**

I was provided a copy of A Jane Austen Devotional from PR by the Book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!

Linking up at Hip Homeschool Mom Giveaway Day!

He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy. ~ Titus 3:5

The 2:1 Conference {and why I want to go}

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Ever since learning about the 2:1 Conference last fall, I was determined to go! I was new to homeschooling and knew it would be beneficial for me to go and learn all that I could about the homeschooling way of life. I was interested in hearing all of the fabulous speakers, speak, and share what they have learned along this amazing journey! I immediately contacted my friend Aurie and ~~begged~~ asked her to come with me! She agreed and we decided to make plans to attend, carpool, and room together. She went ahead and ordered her ticket. I have yet to order mine!

Christmas arrived and I took a break from homeschooling. Like I mentioned yesterday, I have yet to return to it and am not sure we will. {on a side note, my daughter is only 4 and I was using this year as a test run to see how much we liked it before we put her in Kindergarten in the Fall} When Aurie asked me after Christmas if I was still going to attend the conference, I told her I wasn't sure. Would it be beneficial to me if I was techinically no longer homeschooling?

I have been praying about the conference and Homeschooling in general. I really want to have my children home and be the one teaching them and guiding them on a regular basis, but, if I am being honest, I do not want to do all the prep work that homeschooling requires! {that sounds awful!!}

This is why I have come to the conclusion that attending the 2:1 Conference may be beneficial to me after all! I mean, I can't be the only one who has been in this same situation, right? And what about the demands of a newborn baby. How am I going to attend to the baby's needs as well as the needs of the child I am homeschooling? I have many questions that need answering. I am sure that there have been many who have been exactly where I am at at this very moment! Maybe I will get to meet some of these exact women at the conference and get some answers and encouragement that I have been needing.

So, I have written up this little post in hopes to win a ticket to the 2:1 Conference. Thanks to the wonderful people at 2:1 and The Homeschool Classroom for the chance to win!

And may I ask you, faithful friends, for some prayer as I seek God's guidance in this decision?

He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. ~ Psalm 25:9

In Where I Am Completely Honest

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:05:00 +0000

I couldn't stop the tears from flowing. The Holy Spirit was speaking to me and I knew I needed to obey and just let the thankfulness, the repentence, the pure joy of knowing Him and experiencing His blessings in my life pour from my soul. It was Sunday morning during worship and the song being sung was How Great is Our God. And He truly is Great, is He not?

Pregnancy is a miracle in and of itself. Knowing that a person is being formed inside the delicate womb of a woman is truly astonishing. Only God.
So why is it when you make the announcement of being pregnant with your second, third, fourth, child, people tend to say Wow, really? Congrats! in such a monotone way with no real joy in their tone whatsoever? You hear things like You really want to bring another child into this world? Like the world just all of a sudden became this awful place. It has always been awful and full of sin, since Adam and Eve. It has never been a perfect place to live and never will be. Heaven was made for that! My response to these types of questions and ignorances is Why would I want to stop the blessings of God being poured out on my life? as I rub my belly and feel my heart fill with joy and pure excitement for the little blessing being molded and created by the hands of the Almighty Creator!

photo credit

I started on fire for homeschooling, now I am not so sure it is for us. We took a break over the holidays and never returned. Quite frankly, I feel like a failure! I was scared and embarrassed to write it out here and admit that I just do not know anymore. I like the idea of being a homeschooling family, but haven't felt like doing the work since before Christmas! Prayer is what I need in making this decision which is why I have spent time Being Still.

I love this little space where I get to share my thoughts and feelings with, well, complete strangers. But the friendships I have made are overwhelming and a true blessing and I wouldn't change a thing!

Linking up for the first time with Just Write!

The LORD reigns, He is clothed with majesty;
The LORD is clothed,
He has girded Himself with strength.
Surely the world is established, so that it cannot be moved.
~ Psalm 93:1

Being Still

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Be still and know that I am God; ~ Psalm 46:10

I am in a season where I am needing to be more still.
More still in His presence listening for His direction and guidance.
I need His discernment; More time spent in the here and now.
To worry less and enjoy more!
To truly live a faith-filled life knowing that He is in complete control and already has it all taken care of!

Linking up at:

But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the Lord will hear when I call unto him. ~ Psalm 4:3

When A Princess Invites Buzz to a Tea!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:36:00 +0000

What started out as an ordinary Monday morning filled with baskets of laundry and school books yet to be opened, quickly turned into a party fit for a princess (and prince).

She asked for a tea party and I couldn't say no. This little girl who is growing into a little lady, too quickly, right before my very eyes! I put the over-flowing laundry basket down and grab a piece of fabric from my ever growing pile and turn it into a stunning table cloth for her "guests". I pull out my better china tea cups and begin to set the table...transforming a small, wooden, table, into a table suitable for a Princess Tea!

::

Delicious fruit and yummy "tea" adorn the table while she rushes to get dressed for her party. Her guests arrive and I begin to serve. Tea is first, followed by the most delicious of all fruits in the land.

She comes down the stairs and into the "ball room" to join her guests dressed in the most prettiest of green dresses. Light conversation begins to fill the room and little girl dreams are whispered into the air.

Not long after the party begins, Knight Buzz arrives and she invites him to join them. Her guests are thrilled at his arrival. They enjoy his conversation and silliness. He is always sure to bring a smile to just about anyone's face!

They continue eating, sipping, and laughing, while listening to some friendly and fun music, which then leads to dancing and singing of their own.

Giggles erupt from the room and this mamas heart is about to explode!

Princess Emma's guests decide it is time to go and thank her for a lovely party. She tells them that they must do this again.

Buzz retires to his room for a nap, filled to the brim with laughter and good company. Sweet Princess Emma helps the waitress clean up after her guests and retells the most memorable parts of the party.

It was a lovely tea; Princess Emma thanks the waitress and heads off to do what little Princess girls do!

::

This mamas heart is overflowing with love and much joy this morning. Seeing my children play together in this way is what makes it all worth it. The memories made this morning are ones that are sure to last a lifetime.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I am not sure, Lord, what I did to deserve these amazing children; this amazing life; but Thank You! I am forever grateful and truly, truly, blessed!!

*linking up at the Hip Homeschool Hop

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ~ Matthew 6:21

My Hearts Desire

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

"For this Child I prayed;" ~ 1 Samuel 1:27

"Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." ~ Psalm 37:4

I have been blessed far more than I deserve by a Gracious God!

Linking up at:

Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. ~ 1 Chronicles 16:9

Lucy Maud Montgomery Reading Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 16:21:00 +0000

New Year! New Challenges! And some of my favorite challenges reside in reading. It is no secret that I love books and reading. And I am excited for the day when my children are reading on their own right along side me!

This is my second year joining in on my friend Carrie's Lucy Maud Montgomery Reading Challenge. I was introduced to Anne Shirley in sixth grade. I still remember reading all about her quirkiness as one of our Literature selections and how much my teacher loved her! I have been hooked ever since. In fact, I still own that same copy of Anne from sixth grade!

I have decided to make Anne of Green Gables my selection for this challenge. I haven't visited with her in quite some time and could use a dose of her quirkiness to start off my New Year! If I get through the first one in the next week or so, then I am hoping to move onto the second book, Anne of Avonlea. However, my intention is to read it to enjoy it, not just to get through it and check it off my list.

Also, aside from my reading of Anne, I am going to head to the Library tomorrow to pick up the Road to Avonlea series Season 1 to hopefully enjoy as much of it as I can. {thanks to Carrie for this suggestion!}

This is such a fun start to a new year of great reading! If you have yet to enjoy any of Lucy Maud Montgomery's works, then I urge you to take part in Carrie's challenge! She makes it easy and oh so enjoyable to indulge in some timeless pieces of fiction!

Thank you, Carrie, for once again hosting this fun challenge! Happy Reading!

You can't get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me. ~ C.S. Lewis

He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. ~ John 1:2-3

A New Beginning

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 15:05:00 +0000

It has been awhile since I have visited this little space of mine. Too long, in fact! I apologize for the silence! But, if I am being honest, I have to say it was quite wonderfully unexpected!

With all the joy and excitement of Christmastime, I was able to enjoy every minute of it with my little ones. Christmas is such a wonderful time of the year...especially with tiny, smiling, faces filled with wonder and awe!

We had a wonderful Christmas, as I hope all of you had as well! It is the most beautiful time of the year, celebrating the birth of our Saviour with the ones we love! And now a New Year is upon us, {can you believe it!?} and I am ready to get back into the swing of things and our normal routine!

Much has taken place in the past month or so and I cannot wait to share it all with you in the days ahead. New goals, new direction, all for the New Year! But, I will leave with you today this bit of exciting news...

We are expecting our third blessing this summer!!!

God is so, so, good! How I have prayed for this child. And God has given me the desire of my heart! {Psalm 37:4} What a loving, faithful, God we serve!

I am happy to be back in this little space and am looking forward to reconnecting with all of you again! Many blessings to all of you in this New Year!

"For I know the plans I have for you." says the Lord. ~ Jeremiah 29:11

Jesus is the ONLY Reason for the Season!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:04:00 +0000

We are now entered into the Christmas season! My absolute favorite time of year! I just love all the lights and family gatherings and the warmth and love this season brings! But, most importantly, I truly love revisiting the Christmas Story with my children every year! This year, however, God has really been putting the role of Mary on my heart...

Join me at Women Walking Upright to hear the rest of the story!

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. ~ Isaiah 7:14

Having Plenty

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

A time to pause and reflect on all that I have been given.

All the many blessings that have been bestowed upon my life!

God has been too good to me and I am forever grateful of His gifts and blessings!

Taking time today to say "thank you" to the One who has given me so much and to count a few of those blessings out here.

:: Four tiny walls and a roof overhead

:: Warm clothes waiting in our closests to be worn once the coldness arrives

:: Winter coats, hats, and gloves

:: Socks and shoes

:: Clean, running, water

:: Fridge filled with food

:: Little arms wrapped tightly around me whispering "I Love You" in my ear

:: Christ's love for me displayed on the cross

:: Forgiveness

:: Love

:: A basket filled with yarn and inspiration

:: Warm bread, straight from the oven
:: Hot Chocolate with marshmallows
:: Wholesome, family, Christmas movies
:: Wet nose kisses from our furry friends
:: A little girls enthusiasm over just about anything
:: Friendship
:: This season that we are in

:: Quiet moments to sit and be thankful
:: My Bible-what a treasure

Praying you all have a blessed Thanksgiving week!

And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. ~ 2 Corinthians 9:8

Filling Shoeboxes With Love

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

It is National Collection Week {November 14-19} for the Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes!

Our boxes are ~~packed~~ stuffed full of wonderful gifts in hopes to put a smile on a child's face this Christmas. A child who may only receive what I have placed in this small box. It is not much...and believe me, I wanted to stuff it with more that the box would allow...but the message-the gift- I am hoping to give to these children is that Jesus loves them and cares about them, no matter where they live in the world. He sees them and knows their hearts and He loves them! He loves ALL of us!

I tried to explain to my children the meaning behind giving these gifts to two very special children. My daughter understands that the gifts she placed inside her shoe box are going to go to a little girl who may not have gotten any presents for Christmas otherwise. I explained to her that we are giving gifts to others because God gave us the greatest gift of all-His Son! I told her we want others to know of His amazing gift as well and that we need to pray for the little girl who is receiving this box, even though we may never know who she is!

My son is only 2, so his understanding of the meaning and the reason behind putting toys in a shoe box for another little boy, is not quite there. However, I explained to him, as I did my daughter, that we are doing this out of our love for Jesus! And even though he wanted to play with the truck that lit up and made noise, it had to be placed inside the box for another little boy to enjoy!

Through this process I thought to myself, "what if I was that mother, on Christmas day, struggling to feed my children, let alone give them a small gift. what a blessing it would be to receive gifts for my children from strangers, all across the world!" It is a humbling act that has taught my children, as well as myself, just how much we truly have to be thankful for.

One thing I really like about Operation Christmas Child is that you can track your shoe box to see when it arrives and where exactly it goes! They also have All About Me sheets that you can download and include in your box for the child receiving it to get to know you a little better. On these sheets is also a spot to place your name and address to become pen pals with the child(ren) receiving your shoe boxes! My prayer is that they will write to us so we can continue to share the love of Jesus with them!

It is not too late to join in and pack a shoe box full of love for a child in need. Collection week runs until the 19th, which is Saturday, so there is still plenty of time! You can find a list of collection sites in your area here!

Praying for God to speak to these children and that their hearts and lives may be changed, through a simple shoe box filled with love!

Linking up at:
Internet Cafe Devotions

When he finished that talk, a Pharisee asked him to dinner. He entered his house and sat right down at the table. The Pharisee was shocked and somewhat offended when he saw that Jesus didn't wash up before the meal. But the Master said to him, "I know you Pharisees burnish the surface of your cups and plates so they sparkle in the sun, but I also know your insides are maggoty with greed and secret evil. Stupid Pharisees! Didn't the One who made the outside also make the inside? Turn both your pockets and your hearts inside out and give generously to the poor; then your lives will be clean, not just your dishes and your hands. ~ Luke 11:41 {the message}

Another Winner...

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 20:44:00 +0000

I almost forgot to announce the winner of the Our Blessed Life Designs Giveaway!

So...without further ado...the winner of the $15.00 Gift Card to Our Blessed Life Designs is Commenter #6...Sam! Congratulations! Look for an email from me soon!

Thank you again to Aurie for blessing us with this wonderful giveaway! And a big thanks to all of you for entering!

For His Future Wife

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

For His Future Wife ~

I've wanted to sit for sometime now and write to you, telling you all about the wonderful man you are about to marry. Ever since his chubby, little, hand grabbed ahold of my fingers in the hospital after he was born and his smile stole away my heart, I knew he was going to be special and change me in ways I never knew needed changing! We share a special bond-a mother and son bond-one that I hope you get to experience someday if you are to ever have a son.

At the time of this letter, he is only 2 1/2 years old, so he is still my little man; my buddy! Of course, this is hard for me to even imagine-the thought of him getting married-when I am still the only woman who holds the key to his heart. The only woman whom he whispers "I love you" to in the middle of the night. The only woman who melts when his blue eyes look into mine and say "I'm Sorry"! The only woman who wants to protect him and see the best for him and love him with all of her being!

But I know that once those same blue eyes meet the eyes of you, the one God has planned for his life since before he was born, this will all change. You will be the one hearing "I love you" in the middle of the night and melt when his blue eyes look into yours and say "I'm sorry" when he does something wrong...because he will-do something wrong-we all do! And I will no longer be the only woman wanting the best for his life and loving him with all that she has! I will be sharing all of this with you! And I am thrilled of this, for I have been praying for you! That God will protect you and that you will make Him the Lord of your life. That He guides your path and that you will follow and become the wife my son so deserves.

My promise to you is this-I am doing, and will continue doing, the best I can at raising a Godly, respectful, kind, caring, loving, young man. The kind of man that I am praying will grow into the husband that you deserve. The man I am hoping your parents are already praying for, for you!

I am looking forward to the day he brings you to our home, for us to meet. Oh the smile that just crept up on my face! That is going to be a wonderful day. However, until that day-until the day you two meet, many, many, years from now-I will continue to enjoy every single moment of being his mama. Playing trains with him while the laundry sits, waiting to be folded. Reading book after book on the couch, instead of tending to the mess in the kitchen. Scratching his back 'til he falls asleep. Telling him about Jesus and His love for us. And praying, everyday, for you, his future wife! All things that he needs, right now, while I'm still the only woman who holds the precious key to his little heart.

With much love and many prayers,

Your future mother-in-law

For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. ~ Matthew 7:8

{this moment}

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

A single photo - no words - capturing a moment... A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. ~ Amanda Soule

For I have chosen him, that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing righteousness and justice, so that the LORD may bring to Abraham what he has promised him. ~ Genesis 18:19

All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children. ~ Isaiah 54:13

Our Blessed Life Designs {giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

I would love to take some time today and share a little about my lovely friend Aurie with all of you!

Aurie and I met over a year ago through the wonderful world of blogging! We quickly became friends and realized just how much we had in common. Aurie loves to knit and sew and is also a new homeschooling mom. She has a heart for God and is on fire for Him and all that He is doing in her life!

Without ever having met, or even spoken on the phone, I already know what a sweet, loving, and caring person she is. I anticipate the day we can sit, with needles in hands clicking away, and chat, face-to-face!

Aurie has a wonderful little etsy shop called Blessed Life Designs.

In her adorable shop you will find handmade items such as crayon rolls, knitted cell phone cozies, knitted hats, hair clips as well as hair clip holders, and cozy cuddies! She also offers custom items!

I had the pleasure of receiving one of Aurie's cute knitted beanies for my daughter, Emma. She knitted it using one of her favorite colors, purple! Emma loved it! She wore it the whole afternoon the day we received it in the mail.

It even kept her warm for our first snow of the year!

She has the beanie on under her hood!

Because of her sweetness, she has offered one of you the chance to win a $15.00 gift card to her shop! {sweet!}

To win:

Leave a comment on this post stating which item(s) from Blessed Life Designs you would choose if you were to win! {mandatory entry}

Additional Entries:

Leave a seperate comment for each additional entry!

Follow Aurie { @AurieGood } on Twitter

Like "Our Good Life" on Facebook

Become a follower of Aurie's Blog

Follow me { @AFthfulJrney } on Twitter

Become a follower of A Faithful Journey

Giveaway open from Nov. 10th until Nov. 14th. Winner will be chosen via random.org! Please leave a valid email address for me to contact you at if you were to win!

Thank you, Aurie, not only for your kindness in offering up this giveaway, but for your friendship! I am excited to see what God has in store for us!

Linked up at:
Hip Homeschool Moms Giveaway Day

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. ~ Proverbs 27:17

Her Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

My sister, mum, and I ~ Christmas 2010

Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children. ~ Proverbs 17:6

She loves until it hurts. She gives selflessly. She is always willing to help, no matter when or how much notice is given. She is funny and smart. Strong in many ways.

She is Grandmother, Mother, Wife, Friend.

She is my mum and today is her birthday!

Happy Birthday Mum! I am grateful beyond words for you! I thank God for you! Your generosity shines so brightly! Thank you for all you are willing to do for us! Emma and Caleb are so blessed to call you "Grandma"! I love you!

Happy Birthday!

Linking up at:
Internet Cafe Devotions

Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God. ~ Titus 2:3-5

Wanna get a little Weird?

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

For my Women's Book Club, we've been reading the book Weirdby Craig Groeschel. It is a great book and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to get a little more Weird in their walk with Christ!

I've been reading this book along with the group for the past few weeks, as we meet every other week, but this past week I couldn't help but keep reading on past where we were supposed to stop for last nights meeting! It is getting so good and leaving me with that punched in the gut because this is so true and so me feeling! I have been highlighting like crazy!

A few points that I highlighted that have stuck with me I am going to share with you as I am feeling that God is wanting to use these words to speak to some of you as well!

I was reading over the weekend the section on Money! Craig talks about how we are to use the money God has blessed us with, no matter how little or how much, to bless others in need. He says, "I'm convinced God doesn't bless us because we deserve it or because we earn it. He doesn't bless us to make us feel guilty and ashamed. He blesses us so we can be different." {2 Corinthians 9:11.}

I prayed after reading this for God to ignite the fire in me to start giving more and doing it with a heart for Jesus. I prayed asking God to show ne how I was meant to be a blessing here on earth and how I was to spend my time here, other than a wife and mother, until I am called home. He wants to use me to enrich His kingdom. This I know is true! Nothing I have is mine...it all belongs to Him. May I begin using all that I have in whatever ways He deems fit!

"Sure, it's weird to believe that it's more blessed to give than to receive. But it's also the most life-giving, eye-opening truth about money that we can ever learn. Do whatever you have to do to make your eyes generous. God will bless you, and you can be a blessing." God wants us to take a look around us and see where we can be a blessing to others. How can we help our neighbor, a friend at church, a family from afar? God wants to use us to bless others that need it more than we may ever know or experience. Can God do this on His own without our help? Of course! But, He has chosen us to help in Glorifying Him and His kingdom. Why wouldn't we want to be a part of that?

"Remember, to get what you've never had, you must do what you've never done. But to get what you once had, you must do what you once did." If we want to be a blessing to others and to God himself, it just may require us to do somethings we have never done before. We just may need to step out of our comfort zone and see where God takes us and where He wants to use us. It may be somewhere in your church or in your community. Maybe at your childs school or homeschool co-op. Maybe it's volunteering at a local Senior Center or soup kitchen. Whatever it may be, if it is of God's will for you to be a blessing in that way...and it doesn't always require us to give money...then think of how amazing it will be to know you just Glorified the Kingdom of Heaven in Jesus' Name!

God is amazing! He uses people and books and music in ways to speak to us and give to us exaclty what we need to hear! Reading these words the other night brought me so much peace that I am heading in the right direction, but that I have to do more and be more diligent and faithful when it comes to how I use our money to glorify God!

How will you let God use you to bless others and Glorify His Kingdom in Jesus' Name?

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You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. ~ 2 Corinthians 9:11

A Short Story {and a winner!}

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:22:00 +0000

Yesterday was a rough day. I went to bed exhausted and completely stressed out! I felt like all I did was ~~yell~~ scream at my kids all day long! I began to work on finishing up Emma's Quilt only to get more discouraged and stressed out. Something is wrong with the tension of my stitches and I cannot sew a straight line to save my life! *sigh*

All of a sudden, when the little red lights on my oven shine 5:30, the front door opens and he enters in. I hear the "Hallelujah Chorus" being sung and it is like "bam!" everything and everyone calms down and the rest of the evening is wonderful. The kids play nice the rest of the night and I don't think I had to yell once! We even may have laughed! My quilting was still a joke, but I decided to put it away for the night and try again today!

Is it like this in your home? Your day was a complete disaster and when your husband comes home it is like the twilight zone and you are wondering, while scratching your head, "what just happened here?". I do not know what he does or how he does it, but all he has to do is walk. in. the. front. door. and peace is restored!

I was able to breath a sigh of relief. And even though I still went to bed exhausted, I also went to bed happy and thankful for this man that has been such a wonderful husband and father to us!

::::::::::

I have a winner to announce! The winner of the Fun with Felt Giveaway is commenter #9!

You will be receiving an email from me shortly!

Thank you to all who entered! And thank you, again, Betty Lukens for providing me with the Fun With Felt sets to enjoy and also for hosting the giveaway!

Don't want to miss an exciting post or giveaway? Subscribe here to have posts slipped quietly into your inbox!

Giving Gifts to Jesus

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Last week during our Bible devotions from My ABC Bible Verses, we were discussing John 3:16. The devotion on this particular day was about Christmas and how God gave His only son, for us. Jesus was a gift to us! The devotion tells the story about a brother and sister who were singing in their church choir for Christmas. Since it was Christmas and Jesus' birthday, they wanted to give him something, as a gift. They decided that singing in the choir was going to be their gift to Jesus. However, they also learned that by helping out a fellow member of the church was also giving a gift to Jesus!

This then prompted Emma with the question, "Mama, what can I give Jesus for His birthday?" I began to explain how by her sharing with her brother and other children at church and by not lying and obeying her mother and father, that those were all gifts she was giving to Jesus. Then, a light bulb went off in my head!

I began to explain that by praying for our World Vision Sponsor Child and by filling up our shoebox, that we were actually giving gifts to Jesus by putting a smile on the faces of these children. We are "giving unto the least of these" and in return, we are "giving to Him" {Matthew 25:40}

This quickly put a huge smile on her face!
"So you mean, mama, that by us putting that doll, and bracelet, and truck, and puzzle, and toothbrush and toothpaste, and hairbrush, and crayons, and socks into those boxes, we are giving gifts to Jesus for His birthday?"
"Yes, that is right!"
"And by me saying a prayer for 'B' everyday, that is giving a gift to Jesus?"
"Yep! You got it!"
"Wow! Jesus doesn't ask for much!"

It took me, oh, 29 years to fully understand what God asks of us and it took my 4 year old daughter all of 5 minutes to grasp that same understanding! Out of the mouth of babes!

Linking up with:
Internet Cafe Devotions
Women Living Well

And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. ~ Matthew 18:5

Giving Thanks Turkey Cards {free printable}

noreply@blogger.com (Amy @ A Faithful Journey) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year! However, more often than not, it's importance often gets overlooked. This year, I am going to change all that in my home.

For the whole month of November, I am going to ask my children what they are thankful for each day. I will write what they say down on one of our Turkey Cards and then place the card inside our Giving Thanks Jar. On Thanksgiving Day, I will share what they were thankful for everyday leading up to Thanksgiving with our family around the table! It will be a wonderful way to reflect and remember all that they were thankful for over the past 24 days. On the back of each card, I will record the dates so in the upcoming years we can look back and see how their "thankfulness" has changed!

Being that they are only 4 and 2 years old, I am anticipating this to be a very sweet and amusing time of Thankful memories being made!

If you would like to download your own Giving Thanks Jar Turkey Cards, I provided the link, for free, below! Enjoy!

Giving Thanks Turkey Cards {pdf download}

Linking up at:

Hip Homeschool Hop

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. ~ Psalm 107:1