More Than Rubies

Song Of The Stone

2013-03-14T03:28:00.000-07:00

Speak, for your servant is listening.

1 Samuel 3:10

Simon Verity is a master stone carver who honed his craft restoring thirteenth-century cathedrals in Great Britian. With each careful blow of his chisel, Verity listened closely to the song of the stone. A solid strike indicated that all was well. But a higher-pitched ping meant that a chunk of rock might be ready to break off. He constantly adjusted the angle of his blows and the force of his mallet to the pitch, pausing frequently to run his hand over the freshly carved surface. Verity knew that one wrong move could cause irreparable damage to his work of art. His success depended on his ability to read the signals being sung by his stones.

In a similar way, parents need to listen to the "music" of their children, especially during times of confrontation and correction. It takes patience and sensitivity to discern how your child is responding. If you listen carefully, your boys and girls will tell you what they're thinking and feeling.

Scripture says, "Let the wise listen and add to their learning" (proverbs 1:5). By listening and honing your craft, you too can become a master carver who creates a beautiful work of art in your children.

...How well do you and I listen to the "music" of our little one's?

...Do we actually know what they are thinking and feeling?

...What more can we do to create a beautiful work of art in our kids?

(Night Light for Parents: James Dobson)

Laughter does good!

2013-03-12T03:08:00.000-07:00

Thought you guys would enjoy a funny video today!

Tim Hawkins is so funny.... Annnddd, he loves Jesus!

Things you don't say to your wife

(for some reason the blog isn't working properly today, just click on the link, not the picture)

Enjoy!!!

Love Dance

2013-03-08T03:20:00.001-08:00

Our world is changing by the minute, and it seems it is very rarely for the better.

Kids in today's world have must deal with dangers that were somewhat unheard-of during my childhood: school shootings, gang wars, drugs, molestation, kid nappers, and terrorists! Yet, I am convinced one of the greatest threats to a child's sense of security and well-being has nothing to do with these outside forces. It is, instead, the fear that Mommy and Daddy might one day break up the family.

I remember, as an adolescent, listening through closed doors to my mom and dad in very heated discussions. My fear each time I heard this, was that we would be a broken family! Little did I know, then, that couples do have disagreements, and yes, they do argue!

My parents just celebrated 34 years of marriage... a very good marriage!

Kids just like adolescent me, need stability. A secure environment, to grow and learn. It's what God wants for your family and mine.

This environment all starts with a commitment between husband and wife to nurture the marriage relationship.

The wonderful and challenging

Dance of Love.

Our family receives so much comfort from scripture, written especially for us. "A father to the fatherless, and defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling" (Psalm 68:5)

Maybe the best news for you and your family is simply knowing, you are never alone!

"Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20)

I am so thankful Jesus is standing right beside us as we journey through these things called, love, marriage, parenthood, and.....life.....

A Hunger for Christ

2013-03-06T02:40:00.000-08:00

When I see the news about young people stealing, killing, destroying property, or being sexually promiscuous, I know I can be sure that those individuals do not have a healthy fear of the Lord, nor a good understanding of His ways... and not even a hunger for the things of God!!!

This breaks my heart, and saddens me.

Sometimes these young people mentioned may even be from Christian families and have received Jesus, but because they haven't been taught to fear God and desire His presence they are controlled by their flesh.

There is SO MUCH in this world to take our children away from the things of God, and the evil one will come to each one of our children with his own agenda to see if they will buy into it.

When do we do our part to teach, instruct, discipline, and train our children in the ways of God......?

When we read them accounts from God's Word.

When we teach them how to pray and have faith that God is who He says He is and will do what He says He'll do.

When we help them get plugged in with godly friends.

When we show them that walking with God brings joy and fulfillment, not boredom and restrictions.

When we pray with and for them about EVERYTHING... then our children will develop a hunger for the things of God.

They will know that the things of God are top priority.

They will become God-controlled and not flesh controlled.

They will long for His ways, His Word, and His presence.

They will fear God and live a long and better life....

"The fear of the Lord prolongs days, but the years of the wicked will be shortened" (proverbs 10:27)

Having a reverent fear of God isn't really something we should tell people we have, it's something we should show other's... including our children!

My prayer is for our children to have that fear! To love the things of God and hate what this world has to offer. I want and pray that each of our children will grow and develop a heart that seeks after Him.

Start now, while your children are small, praying for these things mentioned!

God will honor your prayers!

Rocking, Worship, and Prayer

2013-03-04T02:26:00.001-08:00

Most every night my husband gets to put our baby girl (1 year old) to sleep! Rocking her, giving her a bottle and cherishing each moment of that time....But......

Last night, I got to do all of that.

When I am able to put her to sleep I rock, give her a bottle, and talk to her quietly about her dreams, and how special she is. But, my most favorite time is when she drifts off to sleep, limp in my arms. It's then that I sing sweet old hymns, and pray over this precious little girl.

Last night I mostly sang a beautiful hymn that I love so so much. Do you know this one???

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus... there's just something about that name.

Master, Saviour, Jesus... like the fragrance after the rain.

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus... let all heaven and earth proclaim.

Kings and kingdom's will all pass away, but there's just something about that Name!!

Tears rolled down my face as I sang this song to this little miracle I was holding. Thanking our Lord above for sending us this little girl. I couldn't help but think of Jesus' love, and how there is something about that Name. If I love our little one's so much that it literally hurts me sometimes, how much more does the Father love them??? How much more does He watch over them???

Sometimes I forget. Sometimes I seek the power and control be lord over them. But I am reminded quickly.... of how much He wants to be Lord over their little lives even now.... I remember that I am not the boss, I am just simply a vessel leading to the King of Kings...I seek so much wisdom and pray that the very Name I sing about is the Name I am showing these babies every day.

I am so in love with my Saviour, and thank God daily for these blessings He has chosen to give.

Today, my heart (and my lips) sing

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus... there's just something about that Name.

Beauty: In His Image

2013-03-01T03:49:00.002-08:00

Sometimes I struggle with poor self-image. Am I alone???

I would venture to say that women struggle with this often.

I have made a conscience effort lately to speak only life... letting good, holy, things flow from my mouth. That means, if I have a temptation to speak badly of myself (especially in front of our children) I bite my tongue.

I have learned that the "poor self-image" thoughts in my heart, and the "I can't do anything right" thoughts that swim around in my head, are often held back. I pray for strength and power to overcome the voice in my head telling me I am worth nothing, because I know the truth. I am a

CHILD OF THE KING!!!!!

But, sometimes the above thoughts overwhelm me, take over and pour out in everyday life, like a poison, flooding over everyone/everything in my path.. This flood could be strong enough to carry me along with people in my life away, if I allow it to!

God says our first steps our to be toward Him: Seeking His face, following His laws, putting Him first, and self-centered pursuits last. When we line up with Him, He leads the way and all we have to do is Follow. As we look to Him, the glory of His image gets imprinted upon us. When our self-image gets so wrapped up in God that we lose ourselves in the process, we become free.

I want that freedom.

I know that I will never see who I really am until I see who God really is.

My prayer for you (and for me) is that we find our true identity in Christ. Raising our children, and loving our husbands in the sound knowledge that we are Daughters of the King!

That we have been created in His image.

Mother's, Daughter's, and the Estrogen that Assaults them...

2013-02-27T02:57:00.002-08:00

I remember it well. The year I turned eleven years old. My days were filled with hurt feelings and nights spent crying myself to sleep because of some perceived wrong done to me by a friend at school. One moment I was angry, the next I was carefree. Looking back on it, I was constantly plagued by surging emotions that were tethered to circumstances. Circumstances that were always changing.

Hormones. The word causes us all to nod our heads in feminine sympathy for one another. Hormones can turn a good day into a bad one and produce tears at the drop of a hat. Husbands rightly shudder at the mention of PMS and look on in bewilderment as the rise and fall of estrogen transforms a wife who yesterday had a sense of humor about her faults, into an over-sensitive emotional mess…and then back again.

Hormonal fluctuations can certainly affect our emotions but must we let them? In the past I have been far too quick to believe the enemy’s lie that I must act on my emotions, or even that I have no control over them. You know, “I can’t help how I feel.” While God gave us emotions He did not mean for them to dictate our lives when they run amuck.

We can control our emotions and they should not be used to justify sin. Our daughters may feel irritable and edgy at a certain point of the month, but that does not excuse unkind words or corrupt speech.

Truth Versus Reality

A kind gift we can give to our daughters is to communicate to them that our feelings often have very little to do with reality. We can instruct them now, when they are young, not to cater to their emotions in the midst of fluctuating hormones. If they allow themselves to be led by emotions now then how will this look in later years during the “big stuff” like a difficult pregnancy, a troubled marriage, financial emergencies or caring for an aging parent?

Hannah Whitall Smith penned these words:

We must choose, without any regard to the state of our emotions, what attitude our will will take toward God. We must recognize that our emotions are only the servants of our will…

Our will can control our feelings if only we are steadfastly minded to do so. Many times when my feelings have declared contrary to the facts, I have changed those feelings entirely by a steadfast assertion of their opposite…

Surging emotions–like a tossing vessel, which by degrees yields to the steady pull of the anchor–finding themselves attached to the mighty power of God by the choice of your will, must sooner or later give allegiance to Him.

(Incidentally, Hannah Whitall Smith had circumstances in her life that would have left many of us an emotional nutcase. Her husband was an adulterer who was repeatedly unfaithful. Two of her children died, one was unfaithful in marriage and ran off with her lover. Another child married an outspoken atheist. Hannah herself suffered with painful arthritis.)

God has designed our bodies to have seasons and cycles. Every season has it’s challenges whether it be young girlhood, puberty, young womanhood, middle adulthood, peri-menopause and finally, menopause. But by God’s grace, we can fill our minds up with his truth when we feel hormonal storms approaching, and we can teach our daughters to do the same.

Scriptures to Mediate on When Your Emoticon App Doesn’t Contain Enough Faces to Describe You

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 1 Cor. 10:13
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2
to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self,created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Eph. 4:22-24
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 4-7
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Phillipians 4:8
God made our bodies. He understands how they work and things like puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause don’t catch him off guard. We can fix our minds on Christ and He will sanctify our emotions and grant us peace.

<This blog post was shared with you from the amazing blog Raising Homemakers, by Bambi>

Prayers of the Rightous

2013-02-26T03:12:00.002-08:00

Everyone goes through trials, and rough patches now and then. It's nothing to be ashamed of. Sometimes our prayers help us to avoid them. Sometimes not. It's the attitude we have when we go through them that matters most.

Do you think if we are filled with anger or bitterness, or if we insist on complaining and blaming God, things will turn out good??? My answer? probably not.

If we go through our hard times with thankfulness and praise to God, He promises to bring good things despite them, (James 1:2.3)

Maybe I'm the only one, but it has taken (and is still taking) quite a while to come to the above conclusion.

A wife's prayers for her husband during these times may not change some of the things he must go through. after all If we never suffered, what kind of shallow, compassion less, impatient people would we be?

But, I have come to notice that prayer can help him maintain a positive outlook of gratitude, hope, patience, and peace in the midst of it, and keep him from reaping the penalty of a wrong response!!!

Isn't it refreshing to know that we have this power of prayer through Jesus? I think so!

I can't think of any trial that my husband or I have gone through that didn't grow us deeper in the things of God, even though it was miserable to endure at the time and we had little appreciation of where we were headed. But, as we prayed through every rough spot, and still do, we found (find) our faith growing and our walk with God deepening. When our attitudes are right, our love for each other also becomes stronger, and we grow even closer as one with our Father!

If you don't have a regular time of prayer with your husband, I encourage you to do so, if not nightly, maybe weekly! It will change your marriage, your life, and your walk with the Father!

Pray for and with your husband, it is amazing what benefits your family will reap from it!

25 Ways to Love your Husband

2013-02-25T03:15:00.001-08:00

If you ever feel that your marriage could be stronger or you feel your relationship needs a re-charge pick one that works for you and have fun!! I so believe that discovering ways to show love in YOUR SPOUSE'S LANGUAGE and re-discovering your FRIENDSHIP over and over again is what builds a strong marriage!

CHOOSE TO ACT NOT RE-ACT. Isn't it so natural and easy to react to others - to become offended when someone is offensive?! To reflect shortness to someones being short or irritable? You cannot ever change others, but you have the power to choose how you act and love. Experiment with showing more love in the moment rather than just merely mirroring how they treat you - this is one of the hardest things for us humans to do.
MIRROR & Toilet MESSAGES. Write a little love note on your bathroom mirror with lipstick or a dry erase marker. Or if you really feel like being crazy and doing something totally-out-of-the-ordinary, write on toilet paper with a permanent marker and lay out message on top of the toilet water :)
SAY YOU'RE SORRY, before he does. I love the quote by Ruth Bell Graham: "A happy marriage is the union of two good forgivers."
TELL YOUR CHILDREN WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT THEIR DAD. A lot.
DROP EVERYTHING. Try putting aside your eternal to-do lists just for a moment, and give your husband your sincere, undivided attention.
INITIATE. Researchers report that sexual intimacy is the #1 need of Men in marriage - or the #1 way that they feel loved. Interestingly, men feel most fulfilled and loved only when they feel their spouse is eager and also fulfilled. So make it fun, try new things, initiate.
TEXT HIM Surprise him with a spontaneous, flirty text or a sentence about why you are so grateful for him. Finding your own ways to connect during the day makes a difference.
START A HOBBY TOGETHER. Find something you both would enjoy!
PLAN A DATE NIGHT even it is in your own home when the kiddos are asleep (but I love it when we actually leave the house!). It’s so important to have that time to fall in love all over again - just the two of you. We usually keep it super simple and lots of times it doesn't officially happen - but any time together (without kids) make a huge difference.
START A “LOVE JOURNAL” where you can write letters to each other, paste in notes you have both written, special memories, and such.
KEEP YOURSELF ATTRACTIVE Maybe I'm the only one here, but I find it difficult to actually find time to shower and feel pretty each day- especially when I'm meeting the continual demands of my children! Whether it's throwing on some makeup, or finding some cute clothes that are actually clean :), or getting your hair done - it doesn't always happen but it does wonders for how we feel about ourselves.
BREAKFAST IN BED a surprise breakfast in bed, that could be fun.
FLIRT WITH HIM It's funny how we totally flirt while dating, but once we're married we can easily forget to be FUN! Just because you've snagged him, don't stop flirting. Try to bring it back.
DON'T TRY TO BE HIS MOM Remember you are his wife, not his mother. Don't jump him every time he does something differently than you’d like. We likely all need this reminder often.
TOUCH Physical touch can translate into love for a lot of men. So as you talk with him or pass by him.. think to touch him in someway.
WRITE A FUN "LOVE NOTE". just leave a note somewhere where he'll find it. leave random, funny post it notes around the house.
GIVE HIM A MASSAGE. I bet he would love a spontaneous head rub or go all out and give him a back rub with lotion.
GRAB A KISS WHILE YOU WAIT Kiss your husband while you're waiting at the stoplight or in the food drive-through.
BE AWARE OF EXITS & ENTRANCES As you and your husband say goodbyes and reunite again after a long day, be aware of how you show love during these important cross roads.
TALK ABOUT HIS INTERESTS Bring up a subject that interests him and listen to him talk. Even if the subject doesn't interest you, enjoy watching him as he gets stirred up over the topic.
SLOW DANCE in the kitchen when the kids go to bed. Actually, maybe dance in front of your kids!
VERBALLY SHOW APPRECIATION IN FRONT OF HIS FAMILY. When with his family, for example, share sincere appreciation for what your husband does or who he is.
SURPRISE GIFT. Surprise him with a fun gift of some kind that he’d really enjoy.
CALM DOWN FIRST, THEN TALK. When you are in a moment of frustration, try taking some deep breathes, perhaps hold your tongue momentarily, and discuss it as soon as you feel more able to talk kindly. It's easy for humans to say hurtful, non-helpful things if they just react instantly in a heated moment.
FIND SOME SANITY AT HOME. With four little one's, our house usually feels out of control :). And I need loads of help to keep things somewhat clean and organized! I do care about the environment of our home because it does affect EVERYONE, especially me and my ability to focus more on relationships.

Love your husband! Have fun enjoying one another! Be submissive and show him you want him, you need him, you are in so much love with him!

Prayer Through Deficiencies

2013-02-22T02:57:00.000-08:00

When I went to school it was a scary place, socially. In middle school I was a chubby kid, girls were cruel and boys didn't like me, so I kept to myself a bit, but getting good grades came pretty easy. I never have thought to pray about my children having the ability or motivation to learn, I thought it would be just as easy for them! I was dead wrong!

It has become clear to us as parent's that one of our children is quite a bit delayed in learning, speech, and even in some social areas as well.

School work, and focus has always been a struggle for him. He has a lot of difficulty learning new things, and retaining them... it is frustrating for this homeschooling mama!!!

Lately in my prayer time I have been praying for total healing of all of the difficulties this little boy has. It is so hard to watch our children struggle, isn't it???

In one way or another we all have deficiencies. Thankfully , God makes up for them with His strength. The bible says, "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God" (2 Corinthians 3:5)

That is SO true......

God has pulled us and this child through some really rough patches, and I am sure more are to come, and through all of this we are learning that true knowledge and understanding begin with and come from the Lord.

The Bible teaches us that knowledge begins with a reverence for God and His ways. And what a great knowledge it is. So great, in fact, it is a shield that delivers and protects us from evil.

Our children, and their ability to learn should never be taken for granted. Even while our children are still in the womb we can pray "Lord let this child be knit perfectly together by You forever."

I believe the sooner we, especially as wives and mother's, get a handle on our direct connection and communication with Christ, through prayer, the better!

Our prayers for our children will make a positive and permanent difference in eternity and here on earth, no matter what their age or deficiency!

Exhausting Perseverance

2013-02-21T17:09:00.000-08:00

It's only been a little more than six years, and already the calm, orderly, organized, nap taking (for adults) days seem a distant memory. Does it feel that way to you?

As a wife and mother I feel as if I give every ounce of what I have to my family, yet the dishes are piled higher than the Eiffel Tower, the beds seem to go unmade, the same cup has been in the same place for at least two days now, and somehow the kids seem unable to grasp even the most basic forms of civilized conduct at times! These things are enough to really make me throw my hands up and shout, "I GIVE UP!!!"

But I don't, I won't, my family depends on me not to! I choose not to give up or give in to the feeling that it's hopeless. As I persist in my efforts to be a godly wife and mother, I know I will experience small victories along the way---in fact most days I already do!

Over time, I am sure these little successes will turn into much larger ones.

I have to remember daily that, the Lord is watching "I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first" (Revelation 2:19)

Most assuredly He will honor mine and my husband's persistent dedication to walking in the ways of Scripture.

Praying these words over my life, and your's tonight....

"May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance" (2 Thessalonians 3:5)

Comfort Food

2013-02-21T02:30:00.002-08:00

Doesn't this Mac N' Cheese look so yummy???

I haven't tried the recipe yet. Let me know how you like it.

Ingredients

Kosher salt
1 pound elbow macaroni
1 stick unsalted butter, plus melted butter for brushing
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons mustard powder
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 quart whole milk
8 ounces havarti cheese, grated (about 2 cups)
1 pound sharp yellow cheddar cheese, grated (about 4 cups)
12 ounces white American cheese, grated (about 3 cups)
1 sleeve butter crackers (such as Ritz), crushed (about 35 crackers)
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just slightly softened, about 6 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, then drain the pasta and rinse under cold water.

Meanwhile, melt 4 tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce and cayenne and cook, whisking, until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden, about 2 minutes. Whisk in the milk and cook, whisking occasionally, until the sauce begins to boil and thicken, about 5 minutes. Stir in the havarti and all but 1 cup each of the cheddar and American cheese; cook, stirring, until the cheese just melts, about 1 more minute. Stir in the pasta, adding the reserved pasta water as needed to make a creamy sauce. Season with salt.

Brush a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Spread the pasta mixture in the dish. Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons butter in a bowl in the microwave; stir in the crushed crackers and parmesan. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar and American cheese evenly over the pasta, then scatter the cracker mixture on top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake until heated through, about 25 minutes. Remove the foil; continue baking until browned and bubbly, about 20 more minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Prevailing Prayer

2013-02-20T02:51:00.003-08:00

There are countless dangers in this world. Trying to raise children in this world can be utterly terrifying at times. To guide our little one's safely through the minefield of childhood is overwhelming at times, to say the very least! Pornography, drugs, sex, and violence are just some of the weapons that Satan uses in an attempt to rob our children, to gain control of our sons and daughters in their most vulnerable moments.

Rest assured my dear sisters, We will prevail! But, only if we continue to turn to the original source of truth and power.

JESUS CHRIST.......

On the night our Lord was betrayed He gathered His disciples in a vineyard and prayed for them, saying, "I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world, My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one" (John 17:14-15)

In the same way, the world hates your children if they belong to God.

Although we may wish that the precious little ones in our care could be spared from the evil influences in our immoral, corrupt society, God has a purpose for their lives on this earth... I preach this to our children daily....

We must yield to His plan. Our task is to pray for our kids, to reach them in the ways of God, and to protect them as long as we have breath in our lungs.

Each morning I wake up a few hours before the kids do. I have my coffee, I read, and I pray for them.... I can not stress how truly important this prayer time is! I have two things I pray for daily, among other's!

I pray for their little hearts to have a longing and a desire for the things of God (honor, obedience, knowledge of scripture, service... etc.)

I also pray for their protection. Not just the physical protection from harm and danger, but their spiritual protection.

Evil is on every corner, in so many homes, schools, even churches. It's our job as parent's to intercede for our babies, praying for them is a must!

I am sure you pray for you children, even if they are still in the womb... but, if you don't have regular prayer time for them, I challenge you to start! Even if it's just two minutes. It could make a difference in eternity.

I get in the way

2013-02-19T03:21:00.002-08:00

" I will be his father and he will be my son." 2 Samuel7:14

A Father's Job is to train his children to take on the world.

The moment will come, all too soon, when your kids will walk away from the comforts of home and begin their own exciting journey into independence and adulthood. To prepare for that transition, your children desperately need your love, leadership and guidance throughout their growing-up years.

A Father's role in raising these little one's is much different than a mother's, but, of course of no less importance.

The impact and responsibility of dads in raising our babies cannot be over-estimated. Father's are in the very center of God's design for families.

I get in the WAY!!!!!

I push sometimes, to raise my children without regard for my husband, the very one who had part in helping these kids come into this world!

I am wrong.

I caudal sometimes, not wanting my husband to play too rough, or speak to firmly to our boys. THAT'S WHAT THEY NEED.... rough play and firm godly discipline! I am doing our children a disservice if I get in the way of that.

I am wrong.

I ignore what he says sometimes, simply because I don't think what he is saying or doing is the right thing. I do this without talking to him, or making sure that what I am saying or doing is pleasing to him and our Lord.

I am wrong.

I cut with my words sometimes. This one hurts me deep into my core. I have struggled with having the gentle quiet spirit mentioned in God's word all of my life........... all of my life!!!! I say things that are so harsh to the one I love most on this earth... my groom! I not only speak harshly but, I sometimes do this in front of our children. If they see mommy speaking to daddy in this manner why shouldn't they feel free to speak this way??? If I continue this, I will send them on a path full of hurt, disobedience, and guilt.

I am wrong.

I could list many more things, I'm sure!

Maybe I am the only one who struggles with some of the things I mentioned above, but, if not... will you give these things to Christ? Allow Him to be your guide. Talk to your husband. Do not stand in his way. Let him lead you, your family, and your children. If you have boys, let them be rough, his firm manly discipline is exactly what they need..... let it happen! Don't try to be a god and control everything! God's all powerful, and believe me, He's got this... ;)

What are you struggling with??? Are you letting your husband be a daddy?

Can I pray for you???

Dreaming Big

2013-02-17T04:03:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, the dreams, the saving, the Internet surfing, the "when is the best time to go" questions....... all for the sake of.............................................................................

Walt Disney World!!!!!!!

I grew up in a very rural town in Florida, this town is about 2 hours from Disney!

My family went a lot more that most families get to. To say I love Disney World would be an understatement! This place is way more than magical. When you step onto the streets of this enchanting world something happens that can not be described.

I want so badly for our four children, and even my husband to experience this wonder....and re-living the magic of my childhood would be amazing (especially to see it through the eyes of our little ones)

As you can imagine, getting out of the house to run errands is a challenge with four babies underfoot, let alone traveling to Disney. So, right now, we wait... We continue dreaming.... We save what we can...... in hopes to travel as a family to Disney World one day.

-------side note-------- I do realize there are many things that come before this lovely place on the list of "things to do"................... Simply a lavish dream I have for us!

What's your dream????

A Purposeful Calling

2013-02-16T04:31:00.001-08:00

Contrary to the popular thinking of Christianity today, the Lord did not reach down and save us from sin and death so that we might be merely happy, healthy and wealthy that is not our purpose. Those who teach this have invented another gospel! They portray a false Christ---the god of this age rather than the God of the Bible.

A gospel without the cross is no Gospel at all........

I, as a wife and mother, I long to serve my family and other's, but, sometimes I listen to the lies of the evil one. The thoughts I listen to often are "this wife and mother thing, is a joke. You have no purpose."

or "you have a degree, what in the world are you doing home... you are making NO DIFFERENCE."

There are many other lies, but the two above are the ones told to me more often than not. Most days I choose not to listen, but some days I succumb to the thoughts in my head! It's then more than ever I have to lean on Christ. He has a purpose for me, and this wife and mother thing is one of the greatest purposes under heaven.

God's purpose for us, from the moment He created us, has never changed. We have always been destined for the throne----created to rule with the One who created all things for himself.

I love serving my family! I love catering to my husband! I love seeing unselfish, kind, and loving fruits burst forth from our little one's! Seeing God's handy work, and knowing HE created me for a purpose, is refreshing. This truth gives me strength, it gives me passion to wake up and do it all over again! Christ has given all of us a purpose.

What is yours???

Essential Rest

2013-02-15T03:25:00.002-08:00

We all need rest. Rest is essential to thrive, to cope, and even...... to live!

If this said rest is essential, why do we, as wives, mother's and friends get so little of it?

It shouldn't be just a convenience that we squeeze into our schedules or an indulgence for those who aren't willing to work hard. We should have regular times of quiet and stillness, it is essential for our spiritual and biological well being!

Do you know (I'm sure you do) many members of the animal kingdom and plant species will hibernate or become dormant through the winter months in order to survive. We ~~mothers~~ humans, have more of a struggle remembering or even acknowledging these natural rhythms of life.

God knows all about our overzealous tendencies.

The maker of the universe rested. He created us to rest, in fact He commands us to set aside a day to rest each week, to pray, and rejuvenate.

If God himself thought it fitting to rest for ONE WHOLE DAY (after creating the world by the way) Why do we think we have the power to keep going, without rest or stillness to hear from our Lord???

In today's "hurry up" culture, families try (including my own) to do it all---- work, school, church, social events, and an endless array of swim meets, acting classes, and piano lessons. Life begins to feel like a runaway train.

Stop in your tracks today! Spend time with the one who created you to rest, rejuvenate, and hear from heaven!

"Come to me, all you who are weak and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

The Master is calling you, my friend, to rest. Won't you hear His call today?

Honor In the Home

2013-02-14T02:56:00.000-08:00

Does it seem odd to require someone to honor us?

If it's really honor, shouldn't they do it with out being told? Well, this may be true concerning other people in our lives, but not our children. They MUST be taught!!!

The bible says: "Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother which is the first commandment with promise that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth" (Ephesians 6:1-3). Is it not scary to you that, if our children do not obey this command of the Lord, they could not only be cut off from all that God has for them, but, the lives of these precious little ones could also be shortened? The fact that we, as parents, can affect the length and quality of our children's lives, is reason enough to pray, instruct and discipline them!

Rebellion WILL surface in your child at one time or another.

Be ready to meet the challenge with prayer and the Word of God, along with correction, discipline, and teaching.

Don't be intimidated, dear friend, by a rebellious spirit. Jesus is Lord above that, too.

A LONG break...

2013-02-13T09:19:00.001-08:00

What a whirlwind. Over a year has gone by and not one blog post from yours truly!

I'm Back.... With stories to tell!

I can't wait to share with you all.

Lost and Found

2011-09-14T07:21:00.000-07:00

Today is a sitting in comfy chairs at the Y kinda day! Ooo, Ooo, or a nice breezy day at the beach?

Have you ever felt lost? like you have no idea what you are doing? like you want to just scream all the time? or just be alone for one full day? If you have NEVER felt this way, then I am alone.

My husband has been out of town for a few days. He has gone on business trips many many times before, but for some reason this one is horrible. Our youngest is of the age that he notices things or people when they are missing. His behavior for the past few days has consisted of screaming all over the house, with real tears... crying "daddy, daddy." Nothing I do is comforting him. Our 3 year old has been whining NON STOP, and our 5 year old just aggravates everyone. These actions are normal, but never as constant as they have been for almost 48 hours now.

I have held close a few scripture verses lately, that have helped so very much.

Psalm 34:18
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

(I feel like my heart is so very broken, and my spirit is beyond crushed) I miss my husband (even when he is gone for this short time) and feel like a piece of me is missing, I am sure our children feel this same way!

Philippians 4:7
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I have needed this peace that I know comes from only Christ.

I hope and pray you are comforted by the reality of this. I know sometimes we feel (or at least I feel) lost, alone, out of control and in need of the heavy hand of Christ to lift us up and hold us close. Let Him do that for you today. I am still learning daily what that looks like, and will continue to humble myself in the presence of our Lord.

Many Blessings

A New Room - A New Journey

2011-09-13T06:14:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, a sigh of relief! Our homeschool is finally ready for learning, and we learned so much about God's creation yesterday. Take a look at our new room, we are all excited about this journey, and can't wait to see what God will do this year!

The Reading area, minus a rug, some pillows, and the rain gutter shelving we will put in soon.

I would love to see your homeschool pictures.

A Paste for Teeth ;)

2011-09-08T06:57:00.000-07:00

I ran across this recipe and thought it to be very interesting. I am not so sure that I will use it, but I thought some of you would enjoy even the idea. The blog entry is from http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/2008/08/going-fluoride-free.html

Have you thought much about fluoride? This lovely product is added to many water supplies and toothpaste. Dentists supposedly say it prevents tooth decay. When I discovered this product has been banned from adding to water in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Austria, France and The Netherlands, I questioned why it is still being promoted as a healthy product here in the States.
Andreas Schuld describes fluoride as follows in an article on the Weston Price Foundation:
“Fluoride is any combination of elements containing the fluoride ion. In its elemental form, fluorine is a pale yellow, highly toxic and corrosive gas. In nature, fluorine is found combined with minerals as fluorides. It is the most chemically active nonmetallic element of all the elements and also has the most reactive electro-negative ion. Because of this extreme reactivity, fluorine is never found in nature as an uncombined element.”
Highly toxic? Corrosive gas? I am not sure about you, but that concerns me. These references are referring to the addition of fluoride to most water systems in the US, but there is another form of fluoride that is added to your average container of toothpaste.

Fluoride Deception

You might be interested in checking out these videos…
Fluoride Deception – interesting video on harm of fluoride
Cure Tooth Decay – can tooth decay be related to what kind of food you eat?
Fluoride Alert – professionals sign document to end fluoride in water due to its toxic content. Two interesting videos about fluoride.

Fluoride Free Alternatives

Fluoride is added to most toothpastes you will find in the store, and although your consumption may be minimal, it is something to consider. Finding flouride-free toothpaste is a spendy pursuit, costing up to $5 per small tube. Sodium lauryl sulfate is included in most natural toothpastes, which is the foaming agent that is added to toothpaste and other bathroom products. There is much controversy whether it is safe as well, so I am seeking to avoid, if possible, and stick to the ingredients that are safe to consume, especially for the little one, as she very well may swallow it.
Here are a few alternatives:
Toothsoap – I have not tried this, but have heard many rave reviews from others. The ingredients are all natural, based upon coconut oil, olive oil and a few other products. The price might sound a bit high at first but I have been told a tube lasts three months for a family of four. Toothsoap is preferred over natural toothpastes because not only does it not contain fluoride but it also does not have sodium lauryl sulfate.
I reviewed the list of ingredients and I thought…why not? These are simple enough to combine together at home. I wanted a toothpaste with quality ingredients that I had on hand, without spending too much on a tube of toothsoap. Here is what I came up with:

Homemade Toothsoap Recipe #1

You can actually just us Dr. Bronner’s as a natural toothpaste, but the texture is very liquidy and very powerful in taste (soap here we come!). Definitely not something the hubby or baby would like. I tried mellowing and sweetening it a bit with these ingredients and all are quite satisfied! Still under a little experimentation. This recipe provided a nice moist but thicker consistency than Dr. Bronner’s alone.
1 Tbsp Dr. Bronners castile liquid soap or any natural castile liquid soap - contains coconut, olive, palm oils – we use Baby Mild unscented (because it is more versatile for us, and covers multiply uses in one product) and then flavor with an essential oil or two
5 Tbsp coconut oil
1 Tbsp or more olive oil or water – to get the consistency you want – this makes it pourable to put in the soap dispenser
Essential oil (20-25 drops), I use orange and peppermint together, as peppermint alone is a little strong for me, but you can use whatever combination you like. If using Peppermint Dr Bronner’s soap, you can skip this altogether.
Stevia, or to sweeten to your taste – a few dashes or so works
Warning: Do not test this product more than a few times at a time or just a dab at a time, or else you can burn your mouth (if using peppermint oil/soap), as I experienced. Best to taste by putting it on a toothbrush and brushing your teeth, as flavor is a bit different from just tasting the toothpaste directly.
I store mine in a new soap dispenser in our bathroom. No scooping it up, just pump it out right onto your toothbrush. No messes in the draw from spilled sticky toothpaste tubes either!

Homemade Toothpaste Recipe #2

1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup vegetable glycerin
1 Tbsp castile liquid soap
A few drops peppermint, anise, wintergreen essential oil, optional
dash of stevia or xylitol
Combine ingredients with a hand mixer or by hand as desired. Store in a old toothpaste dispenser by cutting the end off and filling with your toothpaste. Seal the end with masking tape until it is ready for a re-fill.
Both of these recipes work well for cleaning your teeth and are completely safe and natural…so no fear for the little ones! Just make sure to only give them a little dab on the toothbrush because the ingesting essential oils is the only concern here. So please use less essential oils if you are concerned.
Other fluoride free toothpastes on the market:
Tom’s of Maine Fluoride Free Toothpaste – they sell a children’s brand as well.
Trader Joe’s Fluoride Free/SLS free toothpaste – this is a very inexpensive alternative if you have access to TJ’s!
Nature’s Gate Fluoride Free Toothpaste

Sweepin' up Cheerios

2011-09-07T06:20:00.000-07:00

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31

I heard this song a few months ago and started weeping almost immediately. Not at all a ballad or love song, but shows, with music and lyrics how we are to do all things to the glory of our Creator, Jesus Christ! Sometimes... well, most of the time I feel like my job as a mother and wife isn't as important as most. I pick up everything off the floors, only for it to be messy again in about 60 seconds flat. I finally get all the laundry done, only to find a secret load hiding in our boys' room. I plan out our meal for the evening, and forget to take out the meat. All of these negative things have a tendency to hinder me from being joyful in the service I am doing for our Lord. Although I don't think my job is important, it is the most important job I could ever do. I wouldn't have it any other way, and it is the highest calling we have as mothers and wives! Don't let the evil one steal that from you. Pick up socks and sweep up cheerios to the glory of God.

Fall into Autumn

2011-09-03T07:20:00.000-07:00

Is it “autumn”, or is it “fall”? What do you call it?

Whatever it will be called, it is so close to being right in our back yard.
The colorful leaves, the crisp air, the bon fires that light up our neighborhood, and the snuggly sweat shirts we get to wear and dress our children in!

I would love to be more traditional; Like the families that have been doing the same holiday things for hundreds of years. Sadly, I am not like these people, as much as I would like to be. I would, however, love to start a family specific tradition this year!
The idea of apple picking, decorating our house with the colors of fall, pumpkin carving, or making crafts out of leaves, really appeals to me!But, I am in desperate need of some time management skills. We have three small children, and are pregnant with our fourth. Where do I find the time for these things mentioned, along with many more??? Maybe those of you with larger or similar family sizes can help a mama out ;)

I would love to hear about your family traditions, fall, autumn, or otherwise.

This "Y" Sanctuary

2011-09-02T06:10:00.000-07:00

I LOVE to read. After having Three (almost 4) children I haven't had much time to do so, but, I have found a sanctuary! YMCA is not only good for my physical health, it's also here to provide sanity for my mental and spiritual health too! Often times I will drop my children off at the daycare they provide and walk about five feet to the lobby. Comfy leather chairs and couches await me hugging my growing pregnant body a little closer these days, but nonetheless, oh so comfy! I settle in for coffee, reading, blogging, praying, or, some days just observing the different people who come in and out.

Yesterday was one of the "observing" days! I often notice a large group of women settle in around 8:30 or so! The laughter is almost deafening, but so nice to hear. These women chat about the most random things. "These shirts are on sale for thirty dollars" "have you read this book yet" "oh hi Sally, we sure did miss you yesterday" "let me share this recipe with you" (etc) I, of course pretending to read, listen and smile the whole time they talk.
These ladies, fit with high waisted pants skimming just above the ankles, silver hair, glasses, and what seems to be wedding rings that can only be cut off make me think: Will I be part of a group like this someday? Will I be talking about recipes, and things that make me laugh? Will I have worn this wedding ring so long that it needs to be cut off? I can only pray these things will happen. I long to be close with godly women. My heart often aches for fruitful accountability, for lasting "Titus 2" relationships! This scripture teaches us to teach and learn from other women (and men from men)
These women, seemingly, were teaching and learning from one another! It made me realize how important this is to me, and should be to all women who seek the truth.
The "Y" is my sanctuary. My place to observe interactions between women, and men who love each other. What is your sanctuary? Where do you find your quiet? How do you reflect on the things of God? What is He telling you today?

Many Blessings