Homemaker's Haven

Remembering 9/11

2011-09-12T08:45:00.001-05:00

I'll always remember that Tuesday morning. Tweenager was just a baby back then ~ and I was still in my first trimester with Bubby. In the midst of folding laundry and hearing "Sesame Street" in the background, the hubs called and told me that an airplane had flown into the North Tower. I immediately flipped to the early morning news show, and sat horrified as I witnessed the second plane slam into the South Tower. Even though they were trying to be professional, the news anchors were visibly shaken as they announced that America was under attack.

I'll always remember the look on President Bush's face as he was informed of the breaking news. In recent interviews, he admitted the feeling of rage and sorrow he felt at that moment, and at the same time, trying to keep it neutral so that he wouldn't upset the children surrounding him.

I'll always remember the sight of the buildings crashing down upon themselves, and horrified people running for their lives. I'll always remember the looks of terror, devastation, and sorrow. I'll always remember Mayor Giuliani walking around his city, asking people if they were okay.

I'll always remember seeing the Pentagon ~ the symbol of our military might ~ with a smoldering, gaping hole in its side ~ people again, fleeing in terror, running for their lives.

I'll always remember seeing the fiery, charred remains of an airplane in Pennsylvania.

I'll always remember feeling shocked and appalled that this would happen to MY country. This was the USA. No one ever messes with us, I reasoned. What will become of us? What will happen? Will there be even more attacks?

Then, in the midst of the darkness, a song. I'll always remember how Congress stood on the steps of the Capitol and sang "God Bless America".

I'll always remember President Bush's telling us about the attacks. The resolute, firm determination in his voice ~ in spite of the tears in his eyes ~ made me proud of my President and my country.

I'll always remember President Bush with the bull horn on Ground Zero saying, "I hear you, the world hears you, and pretty soon the people who did this will be hearing you."

I'll always remember the service where Franklin Graham spoke, reminding us that God didn't just "let" this injustice happen. It happened because of sin. All mankind were sinners, needing a Savior.

I'll always remember how fierce and determined the American Spirit was and is. I'll always remember how we, as a nation, finally seemed to realize that we were, in fact, completely dependent on God.

I'll always remember.

Soothing Saturday

2011-09-03T21:21:00.000-05:00

Today has been soothing to me. Yesterday had been quite an emotional day. I was missing my dad and had a lot of mental & emotional stress going on that I didn't even realize I had been carrying until I cried for an hour. Add in monthly hormonal issues, and I was quite the drama queen. In private, I'm glad to say. I kept it together in front of the kiddos.

Today I slept in until 9:00. The kids got their own breakfast of cereal and milk ~ I had insisted on hot breakfasts this week, so they were looking forward to their Honey Bunches of Oats! Bubby went over to my mom's to pull weeds and help her clean out from under the kitchen sink. That left the girls and I to spend the late morning/early afternoon together. Tweenager & I had Kindergartener otherwise occupied as we enjoyed our first mother/daughter movie-bonding experience. We then invited Kindergartener to come and watch "Bolt" with us.

Bubby came home. I took a nice, long nap as the kiddos played outside with their friends. Got up and made homemade nachos. Watched a little college football with the hubs. Kindergartener & I baked chocolate chip cookies. Cleaned up the kitchen and am now baking muffins for our Sunday School class in the morning.

Just the day I needed. Thanks, Father.

Trying New Recipes

2011-08-30T15:56:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite casual dining restaurants is called Mimi's Cafe. When we lived in Topeka, it was only an hour's drive to go to KC to enjoy this Louisiana-style cafe. Since I'm a creature of habit, I always order the same thing whenever I go out.

Mimi's has the most amazing French onion soup ~ it's to die for! (They have the recipe online, so I make it frequently!) What's best, is that you can get a small cup to go with a half salad. The best salad is their Chopped Cobb. They pile a mountain of baby spring mix into a large bowl, and then top it with bacon crumbles, blue cheese nuggets, avocado slices, roasted turkey breast, and hard-boiled eggs in neat, symmetrical little piles on top.

I'm sad that KC is further away, even though we live in the Ozarks. I had to come up with my own Chopped Cobb! It was very easy to mimic, but I insist on taking the time to roast up turkey cutlets instead of buying "carving board" style. It tastes just like deli meat. I want the real McCoy!

I love blue cheese dressing, but since it has the blue cheese nuggets, I decided to steal the hamburger joint Wendy's idea of an Avocado Ranch that comes with their Cobb salad.

Since the brand was T Marzetti's (LOVE it, btw) I bought the Marzetti's jarred Ranch and pulsed an avocado into it with the blender. Good, but not great.

Today I decided to make my own Ranch dressing and add avocado to it. The end result was well worth it! I can't remember where I first found this recipe (I've had it on file for a LONG time!) but it's awesome! It tends to be a little thin, but you can thicken it with more mayo or sour cream.
Here it is!

Ranch Dressing

1/3 c. sour cream
1/2 c. mayonnaise
1 c. buttermilk
3 T chopped chives
2 T finely minced Italian flat-leaf parsley
1/2 t chopped dill
1 t kosher salt
1 t cracked black pepper
1 T white vinegar
1 T garlic paste

(You mince 5 garlic cloves, and then use 1/2 t of kosher salt, smashing them with the flat side of your knife blade until it becomes a paste.)

Whisk sour cream, mayonnaise and buttermilk together. Add in herbs, salt, pepper, vinegar, and garlic paste. Add in more mayo or sour cream to thicken. Season to taste.

I divided this recipe and dumped half into the blender. I then added 1/2 of an avocado to the mix and pulsed until it was thickened and creamy. Delicious! I'll slice the other half to put on my salad tonight!

NOTE: 5 garlic cloves = TOO strong! I was tasting garlic all night ~ yuck! I think 2 or 3 cloves would have worked better.

Ministry of Motherhood

2011-06-03T10:50:00.003-05:00

I'm impossibly running behind schedule, as usual. I will begin my post for week 4 starting on Monday, June 6th. I love, love, LOVE this study about the importance of administering grace to my children. Just as Jesus gives me grace on almost a minute by minute basis, I must do the same for my children. This study has been very convicting to me!

It's interesting how the Lord works in your life once you're willing and open to His leading. He allows things to shape and mold you. We began a Bible study on Wednesday evenings called "A Journey Worth Planning ~ Raising a Modern Day Joseph".

Our wonderful pastor (who has raised 2 children who know, love, and serve the Lord) is leading this study. I'm excited to glean from God's Word and my pastor's teaching how I can ~ by example ~ train my children to be a man and women after God's heart.

You know, nothing negative is ever mentioned about Joseph in the Bible. Yes, he was young and foolish to tell his already jealous brothers about his dreams, but he was ultimately the epitome of a faithful servant, a man of forgiveness, compassion, and godliness. No wonder he's often depicted as a type of Christ.

I so want that to be said of me ~ and how I wish that for my kids!

My Home ~ My Ministry

2011-05-27T09:29:00.003-05:00

TGIF ~ thank goodness it's Friday! Today is the final day of an incredibly busy week. This move has really done me in ~ physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I need to have order in my life, and having things in disarray for almost 3 weeks has gotten me down. Just as I try to organize things and get settled, something else needs to get done ~ laundry, cooking, general housework ~ did I mention laundry? I just couldn't get a handle on things and had fallen way behind. I was miserable!

Wednesday was the hardest. I felt like a complete failure as a wife, mother, and homemaker. My home was disheveled. I was exhausted. I broke down. I cried tears of frustration, anger, regret, and self-pity. Thankfully, my husband was home.

He quietly dismissed the children (who were flabbergasted to see their mommy have a major melt-down) and took me into his arms and let me cry. The solid strength of his chest and comfort of his arms allowed me to collapse into a sobbing mess. He stroked my hair and rubbed my back. He listened to my unintelligible mutterings.

When I was finally spent, he took my face into his hands. Looking deeply into my eyes, he began to compliment me ~ he told me how much he loved me, how much he appreciated the work I had been putting into our home, how lovely things looked that I had finished, and how happy he was that I was his wife. His sweet words uplifted me.

As I reflect back on my husband's love and patience, I can't help but think of Christ. He's waiting for me to bring my many burdens to Him. He knows the groanings of my spirit and wants me to share them with Him. Jesus loves me with an unconditional love. He is happy that I am His Bride. His precious Word uplifts me. And one day soon, He will say to me, "Well done."

Lord, help me to focus my thoughts toward You and to Heaven.

Chocolate Surprise Cupcakes

2011-05-18T11:53:00.002-05:00

Here's the promised recipe, Kaylee!

Preheat oven to 350. Prepare cupcake pans.

Prepare the "surprise" filling:

Mix together:
1 8-oz. package softened cream cheese
1 egg
1 cup sugar
1 t vanilla

Prepare your favorite chocolate cake recipe, or use a mix. Fill pans with cake batter. Drop a little of surprise filling in batter and sprinkle with a few mini chocolate chips. Bake cake according to directions. Let cool completely, and frost with chocolate frosting.

Boxes!

2011-05-18T11:20:00.003-05:00

Since we've moved, I've been unpacking a plethora of boxes! We have boxes of every size, shape, and color. Although I tried to label every box, many got stuff thrown in at the last minute. You know how it is when you move. You start out all organized and label everything carefully, but by the end, you just throw stuff in boxes to get it out of the house and on the truck!

As I look at the 20 boxes that still litter my kitchen floor, bedroom, hallway and entryway, I begin to realize this is a spiritual metaphor.

Although I know what general items are in the boxes, I don't know the contents of each one individually just by looking at the outside. I search the contents and move each box from place to place, distributing the items where they belong ~ either to keep, store, trash, or set back for a garage sale.

We all have issues that burden us ~ hurts we keep in the imaginary boxes of our hearts. No one can tell the contents of our boxes just by looking at the outside. We can choose to distribute our items from place to place ~ keeping them within reach to allow anger or resentment to fester ~ storing them to revisit or to remind others how they've hurt us ~ setting them back to rehash with others. However, with God's help, we can choose to place them at the foot of the cross and let Jesus take them from us. In return, He will give us the grace, strength, and mercy we need to go on.

"Come unto me," Jesus urges. "All ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Ministry of Motherhood

2011-05-16T15:26:00.005-05:00

I began to post on this book last year, but got overly busy to post every day. I'm excited to begin this study again with the Good Morning Girls from http://www.womenlivingwell.org/. The blog button is in my sidebar if you're interested in joining. I'll begin blogging on this subject next Monday, May 23rd.

31 Days to Clean!

2011-04-27T16:01:00.002-05:00

Sarah Mae from www.likeawarmcupofcoffee.com is giving away free copies of her newest Ebook, 31 Days to Clean - Having a Martha House in a Mary Way. I'm excited to read this book. I really enjoyed her other ebook, Core Lies. You can receive her book as well. Either blog about it, Tweet, or share on Facebook.

Moving!

2011-04-15T11:01:00.002-05:00

I'm going to be taking a bit of a blogging break for the next few weeks as we get packed up and ready to move to the Ozarks. That's home for me ~ I'm so looking forward to getting back to my roots and reunite with old friends and family. Once we get settled, I'll resume blogging, perhaps by the middle/end of May.

Cheese & Herb Stuffed Chicken

2011-04-14T08:30:00.000-05:00

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
Salt & Pepper
1 small tub of flavored cream cheese (chive & onion, garden vegetable)
4 T melted butter
1 large container French's Fried Onions, crushed

Season chicken breasts and place 1 T cream cheese in center of each breast. Roll up and secure with a toothpick. Dip in melted butter, then the crushed onions. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes or until done.

This is great served with chicken/broccoli rice mix and a California veggie medley.

Cheddar ~ Bacon ~ Onion ~ Biscuits

2011-04-07T08:30:00.002-05:00

Ree Drummond, a.k.a. The Pioneer Woman, has a wonderful recipe for these savory breakfast gems on her website. However, I have a tendency to find ways to simplify things, so here's my spin, using the original biscuit recipe on the back of the Bisquick box:

Ingredients:

8 slices of bacon, fried and crumbled (I like center-cut bacon for this)
1/2 onion, sauteed in 2 T butter
2 1/4 c. Bisquick
2/3 c. milk
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450. In a medium bowl, stir the Bisquick and milk until a soft dough forms. Stir in bacon, onion (with any extra buttery goodness) and cheese.

Knead around 10 times on a surface dusted with Bisquick mix. Roll out to 1/2 inch thick and cut with a 2 1/2 inch biscuit cutter. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until golden. For extra richness, brush tops of biscuits with a little melted butter.

I serve these yummies with scrambled eggs. Makes 8-9 biscuits.

FYI

2011-03-31T14:25:00.001-05:00

I apologize for the reading quality of my last post. I've tried to fix it, but to no avail. It looks like one long, run-on sentence! Argh!

Hospitality 101

2011-03-31T13:20:00.005-05:00

As I stated in an earlier post, the Lord really has been working in my heart about becoming more hospitable. I find myself wanting to invite folks over for dinner or just for fellowship, but it's challenging. Trying to coordinate schedules can be impossible! There's a wonderful lady in my church that I'm getting to know. We arranged to have dinner together in February. Our visit was relaxed and fun, peppered with laughter and serious discussions. We completely clicked as we shared how we met our husbands and what the Lord has been doing in our lives. We both were a little sad that our visit had to end, so I casually asked her if perhaps our families could get together sometime soon. Her immediate response was that she'd love to, but it wouldn't be until the end of March that we could get together. Their schedule was so crazy, they were doing something every evening! They were completely stretched thin! Now that April's on the horizon, I hope to invite this family over for some hospitality! I know that it's sometimes difficult for our family to get together with others because my hubs' work schedule is different every day. Sometimes he's home before 4 PM, other evenings it's not until 6 or even 7 before he returns home after a long day! His job is the kind where you don't get to go home until the work's done! Let's get back to the main point ~ hospitality. Scripture is very clear in the matter of hospitality. Paul encourages us as believers in Romans 12:13 that we are to "distribute (ing) to the necessity (or needs) of the saints; given to hospitality." Paul also writes to Timothy about the qualifications of a bishop, or pastor that "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, or good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach." (1 Timothy 3:2) Isn't it amazing that along with his impeccable reputation as a husband, a Godly man, a good judge of character and lives in an orderly manner, God's ideal pastor is known as a man that "treats strangers warmly and treat guests generously"? Wow. Did you notice that qualification is listed before being able to be skillful in teaching the Word of God? I don't know about you, but that speaks volumes to me! Titus 1:8 also states that a bishop is to be "...a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate." 1 Peter 4:9 says that we are to "use hospitality one to another without grudging (grumbling). That, too speaks volumes. No griping about having to clean the house or prepare a meal if you want to have a heart for hospitality! I've been praying about ways I can both have hospitality in my home and on the road. Once I've prayed for the Lord to show me ways, He's provided several opportunities. Providing meals for families in time of need has been one way, others have been to just drop a card or note to someone the Lord has brought to my mind. I want to incorporate a "Food, Fun, & Fellowship" night in our home, inviting a different family over once a month for dinner, games, & chat. For the "Food" part, I like to cook something easy that most everyone will like, such as Taco salad. Taco meat can be made ahead and kept in the Crock Pot; the fixings can be arranged so that everyone can make their own. I like to use both white and blue corn tortilla chips for fun. Dessert can be as easy as ice cream sandwiches or Drumsticks. Canned soft drinks and bottled water can be chilling in an ice chest. "Fun" is adding a game after dinner. A hilarious, fun, and sometimes (!) competitive game is "Catch Phrase". It gets the joint jumpin' every time! We usually play "boys against the girls" for a total blast. Other fun party games include "Guesstures", "Pictionary", "Pass the Pigs" and "Speed Uno". "Fellowship" is just getting to know one another better, sharing prayer requests and closing with prayer. We had such an opportunity this past weekend. We met a wonderful couple, Jeff & Stacy at a church my husband was filling the pulpit for. They graciously invited us out for burgers at Wendy's after the evening services. Even though we had only met them earlier that morning, we "clicked" with them. They are around 10 years older than we are, have 8 children, homeschool, and are very involved in the ministry. Simple burgers, fries & shakes were transformed to a feast as we chatted about family, ministry, the Bible, Bill O'Rilley, and Glenn Beck. We shared prayer requests and laughter. When we rose to leave 2 hours later, our hearts were knitted. As I hugged Stacy, she said, "Well, we'll see you again either here or in the air." What a treasure! Hospitality. It blesses you as much as it can bless others. Think about it.

Simply Cheese Enchiladas

2011-03-28T08:30:00.002-05:00

Ingredients:

3 c. shredded Cheddar-Jack blend cheese
5 oz. (half of the tub) Philly Cooking Creme, Santa Fe blend
1 c. picante sauce
1 medium diced red bell pepper
1/2 c. sliced green onions
1 can diced green chilies
8 flour tortillas

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray.

Combine 2 cups of Cheddar-Jack cheese, cooking creme, 1/4 c. picante sauce, pepper, onion, and chilies. Mix well. Spoon filling into center of each tortilla. Roll and place seam side down in pan.

Mix remaining cooking creme with remaining picante sauce. Pour over top of enchiladas, sprinkle with remaining cup of shredded cheese.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted. Serve topped with lettuce, shredded cheddar, sliced green onions, and black olives. A side dish of creamy guacamole and tortilla chips round out this meal nicely!

You can also add 1 lb. of cooked ground beef or 2 c. cooked, shredded chicken to the cheese mix.

Salt

2011-03-24T13:34:00.008-05:00

Disclaimer: This isn't a post about hospitality like I had planned. The Lord laid this on my heart early this morning. Hello. My name is Shelly ~ and I'm a die hard Food Network Junkie. I've been known to watch the Barefoot Contessa for an hour straight, even though I may have already seen the episode. I enjoy Paula Deen and Giada at Home. I actually bite my nails during Iron Chef and will admit that I've shed tears at the reveal during Restaurant Impossible. My kiddos love seeing how things are made on Unwrapped, and they absolutely adore Cupcake Wars. In fact, the hubs has been know to watch a little bit of "Triple D" (when nothing else was on, mind you!). My cooking as improved immensely ever since we had satellite installed ~ Food Network available. The hubs has even declared that it pays for itself because of the delicious, new dishes I've brought to the dinner table. I've picked up little tips and hints over that past years, but one that amazes me over and over is the use of ~ salt. Salt actually enhances and brings out the sweetness in sugar. I tried an amazing chocolate bar a few months ago that was a bittersweet chocolate laced with ~ of all things ~ sea salt. It was incredible! Salt also brings out the sugars in veggies, especially onions. I love sauteing onions in butter ~ there's nothing quite like that smell ~ and I add in a little pinch of salt. It causes the moisture in the onion to evaporate, and the natural sugars come out and caramelize the onion into tasty goodness! I also love roasting veggies, chicken breasts, and pork tenderloin with a mixture of salt, pepper, and olive oil. It's simply amazing what the salt does! I also have learned to toss in a good amount of salt when I'm boiling potatoes, rice, or pasta. None of these items have much flavor on their own, but when you add salt ~ flavor! Not only does salt season food, it also preserves food. I used quite a bit of pickling salt last summer during my pickle-making episode. I've seen Ina Garten use a rub of kosher salt and dill plus other spices to make gravlox. Salt can also used as an abrasive. Rachael Ray uses a bunch of coarse salt and garlic to make a garlic paste. I've seen Martha Stewart clean tarnished copper pans with a paste made of nothing but salt and a lemon wedge. Although inedible, rock salt melts the ice and keeps one from slipping on it. Salt. Who would have thought? Something so inexpensive and readily available can improve almost anything! I've now become a bit of a "Salt Snob". I have four different types of salt in the cabinet right now. Regular table salt ~ I bake and finish foods with it. Kosher salt ~ I cook with it all the time. Pickling salt ~ umm ~ I make pickles with it. I've also used it in baking since it dissolves so quickly. Coarse sea salt ~ I finish dishes with it when I want a salty bite, like on the crust of Chicken Pot Pie. As I did my little study on salt and its uses, the Lord reminded me of his command from the Sermon on the Mount. (Matthew 5:13) "Ye are the salt of the earth; but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men." Also, the Apostle Paul wrote in his epistle (Colossians 4:6) "Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man." That got me to thinking, "What kind of salt am I?" First of all, only the genuinely born-again person is salt and can help meet the needs of the world. Just as salt adds flavoring, acts as a preservative, melts coldness and heals wounds, we are called to do the same. Which brings me back to the question ~ What kind of salt am I? Do I enhance and bring out the sweetness of Christ in my life? Do I add a liveliness/flavor? Do I warm people, or leave them out in the cold? Are my words wholesome and encouraging? or am I too abrasive? If I "loose my savor", then I loose my effectiveness as a Christian. My "testimony will be trampled under the feet of men." So, my dear sister, "What kind of salt are you?"

Hospitality ~ A Life That Says "Welcome"!

2011-03-23T11:44:00.004-05:00

Within the last year, the Lord has placed a desire in my heart to become more hospitable. I think there are many reasons why hospitality is no longer practiced like it was back in the day. First of all, we've become so busy that we barely have time together as families! Secondly, it's just downright intimidating! I know that some people feel the need to reciprocate, but they don't think that their house is clean/large enough to accommodate visitors. Some may believe they lacking the skills ~ in other words, they're not like Martha Stewart! After all, she is the "Domestic Diva"!

Through careful study and reading several hospitality books, I've realized that hospitality isn't entertaining! Karen Ehman writes, "Entertaining puts emphasis on you and how you can impress others. Offering hospitality puts the emphasis on others and strives to meet their physical and spiritual needs so that they feel refreshed, not impressed, when they leave your home."

With the desire to become more hospitable, I began to search the Internet for Christian-themed hospitality blogs. "Comfy in the Kitchen" is my favorite! (Her button is in my sidebar.) This young wife and mother truly has a heart for hospitality. She makes healthy, nourishing meals to bless other families. Her amazing meals are delivered to those in need, new moms, and families who are ill. I'm touched by her sincere desire to "give... a cup of cold water to one of these little ones (those who may not get noticed) because he is my disciple...." (NIV)

I also admire the fact that she isn't so busy doing all these things that she neglects her family. They receive the same yummy meal, plus she's teaching her young children to be hospitable as well.

Tomorrow I'll post some of the ideas of hospitality the Lord has laid on my heart. For now, remember: "Let us not love only in word... but in deed and in truth." (KJV)

Decorating Your Home

2011-03-22T15:17:00.002-05:00

Oh, how I love to decorate! Give me a unadorned room, an unlimited supply of cash, and all the time in the world, and I'm in total bliss! Of course, it's a rarity to be able to live out the above scenario. In reality, we must make do with what we have and perhaps incorporate a few small expenditures for our vision to come to pass.

As newlyweds, all of our furniture had been handed down from our parents and a wonderful friend of mine. For example, our now-bedroom dresser had once been my changing table as a baby. My father-in-law had made our bedroom side table when he was in high school. Most of our living room furniture had belonged to my parents. All the furniture was in reasonably good shape and had been well-cared for.

As our family grew, however, things happened. Seven moves in seven years resulted in a broken hide-away couch. Infants initiated chair and couch cushions as only they can. The square footage of our living room varied from teeny-tiny apartments, awkwardly placed windows in a mobile home, weird extra rooms in an old Victorian, to the nicely sized area we live in now.

When we bought our first home (we currently live there now) my "colors" were (because of the hand-me-downs) slate blue, mauve pink, and cream. Our new living room had newer, earth-tone carpeting and warm ivory walls ~ but the drapes! I believe the word hideous should be used here ~ bright, dark burgandy-red (mainly red) drapes that were backed with a heavy white rubber-like material. Since we didn't have the extra cash to purchase new ones, I knew I had to somehow incorporate bright burgandy into my palette of restful blues, delicate mauves, and creamy ivories.

Fortunately, on a trip to either Khol's or Penny's, I found inexpensive throw pillows that had a floral pattern of blue, mauve, ivory, and ~ dark burgandy! A trip to Hobby Lobby enabled me to add inexpensive touches of burgandy to my floral arrangements, and voila! It worked!

Our bedroom walls were bright yellow and white sponge painting ~ what were these people thinking? So we repainted it with a creamy white. When we could afford it, the hubs finished the walls with a decorative glaze that looks like denim. We topped it with a country border that has hearts and sunflowers and other blue flowers on a creamy shelf. Now the room is denim blue and cream with touches of brick red hearts and golden sunflowers. Since we didn't have a headboard, we purchased some European pillows that serve as our "headboard".

My dream is to make my own headboard someday with plywood, batting, and denim fabric. We'd love to purchase a new bedroom set, but it's not in the budget. For now, my former changing table and my father-in-law's high school project are working just fine. Our old corner entertainment center houses our TV, and another hand-me-down entertainment table is my side table. God always provides for our needs, but He also blesses us with our wants, too.

My father-in-law took pity on us shortly after we moved into our current home six years ago. He and my mother-in-law came over to watch the kiddos for us while the hubs & I went out for a date. F-I-L tried to take a nap on our tiny loveseat, but was unsuccessful. When the hubs & I arrived home, he informed us that they would be giving us some cash to get "a decent couch".

A week later, we bought the current living room set we have now ~ and it was even on sale! With some of the extra cash, we bought a new entertainments center as well as a couple of nice end tables. I was thrilled to finally (!) get rid of the rubber-backed burgandy drapes that came with the house to a pleasing, nubby shade of olive green. Our living room is now done in comforting earth tones. The overall effect is cozy and restful. My idea of bliss!

Hershey's Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

2011-03-21T08:30:00.000-05:00

I spotted this recipe in a magazine at least 17 years ago. When I really want chocolate, this hits the spot every time! The cake is extremely moist, and it has the most decadent, rich fudge sauce ~ a chocolate lover's dream!

Ingredients:

1-1/4 c. granulated sugar, divided
1 c. all-purpose flour
7 T. Hershey's cocoa powder, divided
2 t. baking powder
1/4 t. salt
1/2 c. milk
1/3 c. melted butter
1-1/2 t. vanilla extract
1/2 c. light brown sugar
1-1.4 c. hot water

Directions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 c. of the granulated sugar, flour, 3 T. of the cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk, butter, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.

Spread batter into ungreased 8 or 9 inch square baking pan. In another small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 c. granulated sugar, brown sugar, and remaining 4 T. cocoa. Sprinkle evenly over the batter. Pour hot water over the top of the dry ingredients. DO NOT STIR!

Bake 35-40 minutes or until center is almost set. Let stand 15 minutes; spoon into dessert dishes, spooning sauce from bottom of pan over the top. Garnish with whipped cream or serve with vanilla bean ice cream.

For extra chocolate goodness, I love Breyer's Triple Chocolate ice cream ~ white chocolate, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate all together! Delicious!

The Art of Homemaking

2011-03-19T01:05:00.001-05:00

"Homemaking is an art, and you have the privilege of expressing and developing all your talents there in a little place called home. You get to build ~ beautify ~ organize ~ create ~ fuss ~ express yourself. You get to read and study and grow and master nutrition, finances, horticulture, design, wardrobe, et cetera.

And you also get to shape your children, to give their precious lives a bent toward God. To nurture their souls with the good things of God. To pass on the truth about Jesus to one more generation.

And to do so means you've got to be dedicated, organized, and a woman of purpose. And you've got to have the spunk and energy to follow through on all the dedication, organization, and purpose that answering God's high calling to homemaking requires."

Elizabeth George, "A Woman's High Calling"

Sausage Stars

2011-03-14T08:30:00.001-05:00

My friend Kailley made these for a bridal shower. Needless to say, everyone asked for the recipe as they scarfed these tasty treats!

Ingredients:

1 package wonton wrappers
1/2 lb. each of sausage and hamburger, browned & drained
3 c. shredded cheddar-jack blend cheese
1/2 c. sliced black olives
1/2 c. red bell pepper, finely minced
1 c. Ranch dressing

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin liberally with cooking spray. Gently place a wonton wrapper into each cup, forming a star shape. Spray again 3 times with the cooking spray. Bake for 7-8 minutes, or until golden.

Meanwhile, combine the meats, olives, peppers, dressing, and cheese together in a mixing bowl. When wonton cups are golden, fill with meat mixture and bake another 7-10 minutes. You want the filling to bubble slightly and the cheese to melt. Enjoy!

I usually cook 1 lb. each of the sausage & hamburger. I reserve the other half of the mixture for homemade pizza or spaghetti sauce the next day.

The Simple Home

2011-03-10T14:21:00.002-06:00

As a full-time homemaker, my greatest desire is that my family finds our home to be a haven of rest, a place of peace, and where their spirits can be renewed.

As I've stated in previous posts, as homemakers, we control the atmosphere of our homes. In fact, our home is the only environment over which we have control. No matter what storms are taking place on the outside ~ whether physical or spiritual ~ our home should be a place of sanctuary.

In her book "The Simple Home", Sharon Hanby-Robie writes, "For most of us sanctuary is synonymous with simplicity. Creating the simple home is not only practical for everyday living but also vital to spiritual health."

Charles Keeler, a poet and playwright in 1906, wrote that "The ideal home is one in which the family may be most completely sheltered to develop in love, graciousness, and individuality, and which is at the same time most accessible to friends, toward whom hospitality is as unconscious and spontaneous as it is abundant. Emerson says that the ornament of a house is the friends who frequent it."

Not only do I want my home to be a place of soul~nourishment for my family, but a place where my friends feel welcomed.

My next posts will be about the purpose of a simple home, as well as decorating hints and my thoughts on hospitality.

My Mother-in-Law's Breakfast Casserole

2011-03-08T13:48:00.003-06:00

My wonderful mother-in-law made this breakfast for my husband & I when we came for a visit many years ago. She generously wrote out this recipe for me, and it has been one of my main "go-to" breakfasts for almost 14 years!

1 package unseasoned stuffing cubes
1 lb. sausage, cooked & drained
1/2 c. sliced mushrooms (small can)
2 c. grated Cheddar cheese
1/4 c. finely minced onion, sauteed in 1 T butter
1 T. chives
3/4 c. cream
1 1/4 c. milk
6 eggs
1 t. mustard
1 t. Worcestershire sauce
salt & pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350 and spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray. Place half of croutons on the bottom, then layer the sausage, cheese, onions, and mushrooms. Combine the cream, milk, eggs, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chives, salt and pepper into a blender. Pulse until mixture is completely incorporated. Pour over the layers in the pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Let cool for about 10 minutes, then cut into squares and serve.

You can substitute bacon or ham for the sausage, or use a mixture of the three. You can also make it vegetarian by adding a variety of peppers or mushrooms.

I usually serve this with my fruit salad and a glass of milk.

Meal Planning and More

2011-03-02T11:50:00.006-06:00

One of the most important responsibilities of being a homemaker is to prepare nourishing, healthy meals for our family. As a bride, I was excited to cook for my new husband. However, as the years progressed, the excitement wore off. I was tired of the regularity of our evening meals, even though I had well over a month's worth of recipes. I also wanted to be more creative than having the usual cereal for breakfast and mac-n-cheese for lunch!

Answer to prayer ~ The Food Network! My favorite TV chefs are Paula Deen & Ina Garten. Also, the Internet! I love, love love Ree Drummond, a.k.a. "The Pioneer Woman". All of these women prepare what I call regular food ~ delicious, simple food that doesn't involve expensive ingredients or wierdo combinations.

The above-mentioned women were home cooks that expanded to businesses. Paula started her own catering service called "The Bag Lady". Ina bought a specialty food shop/catering business, and became known as "The Barefoot Contessa". Ree began a simple blog to share her daily experiences on a ranch, but has burst out on the scene with her own successful cookbook and new novel. Now these women enjoy cooking for the sheer pleasure of it!

I'm always in search of a new recipe, or a new way to do things to make my cooking better. I've learned through Ina that roasting food makes the flavors richer and concentrated. (Her recipe for roasted onions is amazing!) Paula has several recipes that have now become some of my family's favorites, such as her Mashed Baked Potatoes, and Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler, to name a couple. Ree's Chocolate Sheet Cake and 4-Cheese Pasta are incredible!

Since the hubs gets paid every other week, I have to shop accordingly. The Thursday before, I sit down with cookbooks, printed recipes off the web, and my recipe box. I do my best to incorporate what I have on hand first as I choose 14 dishes for supper, breakfast, and lunch. I plan on 2 desserts per week and 2 appetizers for us to munch on Sunday evenings ~ our large meal is at lunchtime. Since our weekends are now open (Upward Basketball and Cheerleading are over for the season) I'll plan 2 "big" breakfasts as well.

After the meals are chosen, I write down everything I need to prepare them. I also try to plan easier meals for our busiest evenings ~ things I can make ahead or stick right into the oven. I write them down on a calendar, but I don't make a big deal of it. If I happen to cook Wednesday's meal on a Monday, it's totally okay.

Here's my menu for this week 2/27-3/5:

2/27 B: Cereal, Fruit, Milk (Our norm for Sundays.)
L: We were able to eat out at our favorite Mexican restaurant, Casa. Yummy!
D: Popcorn ~ we were still full from Casa!

2/28 B: Cereal Bars, Fruit, Yogurt
L: PBJ Sandwich, Fruit, Water
D: Pizza, Salad

3/1 B: Waffles, Fruit, Milk
L: Leftover Pizza, Carrots w/ dip, Water
D: Meatloaf, Mac-n-Cheese, Green Beans, Water

3/2 B: Cereal, Fruit, Milk
L: Mini Ravioli, Fruit, Water
D: Chicken Pot Pie, Green Salad, Strawberry Jello w/ fresh whipped cream topping

3/3 B: Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Milk
L: Mac-n-Cheese, Fruit, Water
D: Tuna Noodle Casserole, Peas, Water

3/4 B: Blueberry Muffins, Fruit, Yogurt
L: Turkey & Cheddar Sandwich, Fruit, Water
D: Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Mixed Veggies, Chocolate Pudding, Water

3/5 B: Cereal, Fruit, Milk
L/D: We'll be in Kansas City all day for the annual AWANA games, so we'll be eating out.

The Home Manager ~ Responsiblity & Accountability

2011-02-24T11:36:00.003-06:00

Being a homemaker means that we are given the responsibility to guide our homes. 1 Timothy 5:13-14 tells us that the young women of Timothy's church were "idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not." Their behavior let others outside of the church to speak poorly of Christians. Mrs. George writes, "Obviously, having a home to manage would contribute positively to these women's lives by, at the very least, eliminating the opportunity for these negative behaviors."

I knew a woman such as this. Every day, after she dropped her kids off to school, she spent the majority of her day running around town to shop, eat out, and drop by to chat with other women of our church. Her speech wasn't edifying to others. She was almost prideful of the fact that she couldn't cook or didn't like to do housework. Most of her time was spent away from her home. How sad that she had bought into the lie that being a homemaker was something to avoid!

Guiding our home means to preside over it or to be the mistress of it. Please do not mistake this as the woman being the head of the home. Our husband is. Instead, we manage the home ~ we are the house~holder.

Just as in the familiar parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), we will someday give an accounting of how well we've managed all that our Master has placed in our care!

3 Tips to Remember:

1. Home management is God's best for us. We don't have to like it or feel like managing our homes, but God calls us to do it.

2. Decide to take home management seriously.

3. Live as though you'll be held accountable for the condition of your home and the use of your time because you will! How will the Lord and my family rate my service, my meals and my management?

Simply Chicken Pot Pie

2011-02-24T11:08:00.002-06:00

Preheat oven to 375.

2 chicken breasts, bone-in, skin on
olive oil
salt
pepper

Place chicken breasts on a sheet pan sprayed with cooking spray. Drizzle olive oil over chicken breasts and sprinkle liberally with salt & pepper. Roast at 375 for 35-40 minutes, or until juices run clear. Set aside to cool. When cool enough to handle, remove skin, and pull meat from the bone, cut into bite-sized chunks.

1/2 onion, diced
3 stalks celery, diced
1 T butter

In a medium saucepan, saute onion & celery in the butter until softened. Remove from pan & set aside.

4 T (1/2 stick) butter
1/4 c. flour
2 c. milk
Bag of frozen mixed veggies

In same saucepan, melt the butter. Add in flour to make a roux. Add in milk, stirring until thickened. Add in mixed veggies, onion/celery mixture, and chicken. Mix well and remove from heat.

2 pie crusts (refrigerated or homemade)

Place 1 pie crust in bottom of a pie pan. Fill with chicken mixture. Top with remaining crust ~ carefully tuck in around the sides and crimp edges. Brush with cream and dust with salt and pepper. Cut slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Bake at 375 for an hour. If the top seems to be getting too brown, cover with foil. Serve with a salad and have jello for dessert. Yummy!

The Clean Kitchen

2011-02-23T11:21:00.007-06:00

Sorry about the lateness of this post. Life certainly got busy for the past few days! As I mentioned in my last post, I wanted to share some ideas for keeping a clean kitchen.

In my August 27th "This & That" post, I talked about how there were certain blogs that intimidated me with their high standards of how to do things "right". All kinds of cleaning schedules, from master schedules to daily and sometimes hourly schedules set my brain spinning! That's certainly not my intention for this post. I won't even begin to pretend that I'm setting "the" standard for being a Christian homemaker!

"This is the way, walk ye in it" is not my intention for this post ~ I just want to share some ideas I've read about and applied to my life for the past 20 years.

1. The Kitchen Sink Like I mentioned in one of my last posts, the kitchen sink can be one of the filthiest places in your home! When you're ready to close shop for the night, put an inch or so of hot water & 1/4 cup bleach in your sink for 5 minutes. Then, take a soft scrubbing pad or brush to really scour out your sink. Drain & rinse with hot water. If it floats your boat, dry it out & buff the faucet & knobs with the damp towel. The result? A sanitized, sparkly sink! (Try to say that 5 times fast!) If you have a garbage disposal, a great way to keep it clean is to dump some baking soda down the drain with a slosh of white vinegar. Yes, I know what I said earlier about white vinegar ~ pickle smell. Bear with me for a sec. First of all, it's cool because it bubbles up violently! When it has calmed down, I then turn on the hot water and the disposal. I tear off about a 2-inch square piece of aluminum foil and toss it in. The foil keeps the blades sharp. Also, to make it smell good, you can toss in an orange or lemon rind as the disposal does its thing.

2. The Kitchen Floor Ah, the kitchen floor! The place that gets all the action ~ from muddy shoes and doggie paws to dropped food and spilled milk. Like I mentioned earlier, I absolutely love my Swiffer cleaning tools! I personally believe that the Swiffer Vac and the Wet-Jet are 2 of the most amazing products on the earth! The vac has enough suction to pick up everything from cheerios to dried grass clippings. The little duster pads lift up dust, crumbs, and dog hair. The Wet-Jet is great for spills as well as a quick mop. For deep cleaning, though, I do the old-fashioned Mr. Clean with a gallon of hot water, sponge mop and scrub brush. I do that about once a month. The kiddos take turns with the Vac after the evening meals ~ and, if it really needs it, I do a quick mop afterwards. I usually Wet-Jet my floors around 3 times a week.

3. The Counter tops Counter tops can also carry germs. I keep them wiped off (usually with a soapy dishrag) as much as possible. When I really clean them ~ about once a week ~ I remove everything and use my good old Mr. Clean mixed with water I keep in a spray bottle. If any raw egg or meat has come in contact with my counters, I use my Mr. Clean. Formula 409 is good, too.

4. The Stove I absolutely despised my old stove with the electric burner coils! One boil over, and the reflector pan was trashed! I hated to clean them, but I didn't like putting foil over them, either. I was so ecstatic when the hubs bought me my dream stove ~ a smooth top, with a convection oven! Boil overs aren't quite so dramatic now. They are easy to clean up, but you have to have a special cleaner for the smooth top. I clean my stove top every day with the cleaner and a soft-scrubbing pad. I did try a cheaper one that came with pre-moistened pads, but it didn't do as well as the cleaner I got with my stove.

5. The Oven Okay, I'll be honest. The oven is the most neglected space I clean. Even though I have a self-cleaning oven, I don't do it nearly enough. It seems as soon as I clean it, something spills over! However, I've found that the inside glass doesn't get cleaned very thoroughly with the self-cleaning function. I still have to use Easy-Off for that. Hate those fumes, too ~ I think that's the real reason I put it off like I do!

6. The Refrigerator Also one of the most neglected spaces. How often do those well intended leftovers get shoved to the back of the fridge? You notice them a few days later, growing a science experiment on top! Bottles of salad dressing, mayo, ketchup & mustard with just a squirt or two left sit in the door. Spills coagulate on the shelves. The bottom of the veggie bin littered with tiny onion skins, a sadly wrinkled carrot or molding fruit. I try (note the keyword) to wipe out the shelves weekly with my Mr. Clean concoction. If any leftovers haven't been consumed within 3 days, I toss. I don't let stuff accumulate on the door, either. Any condiments are tossed if there's only a squirt left. I also don't put my eggs on the door. I heard that the best place for eggs is the carton they're sold in, on a shelf in the fridge.

7. The Dishwasher I do clean out my dishwasher once a month. In the past, I've used the regular dishwasher soap, set it on the highest temperature and ran it empty. I do like the new cleaning products, however. They really refresh the dishwasher. If you're a non-rinser like I am, sometimes food can accumulate at the bottom. I clean it weekly.

8. The Microwave I try to wipe up spills as they occur. I've read that if you've really got serious, stuck-on food, soak a regular sponge with water and place in the center of the microwave. Nuke it for 45 seconds or so. Apparently, the water in the sponge turns to steam and softens the gunk. Clean it with 409 or Mr. Clean solution.

9. The Backsplash, Cabinet Doors, Dusty Chandeliers, and the Top of the Refrigerator Are you like me and notice them only when they're absolutely gross? My cabinets and backsplashes are white, but I don't seem to notice the spill dribbling down the front. I totally forget about the top of the fridge and the chandelier over the kitchen table. I notice when it looks like it's growing fur! These are 4 areas I really need to work on!

10. Organization Try to put things in the cabinets and drawers that are kept handy as you work in the kitchen. Try to store silverware, glasses and place settings in cabinets and drawers that are nearest to your table. Create a baking station by storing mixing bowls, measuring spoons and cups near your flour & sugar canisters. Have pots & pan near the stove, as well as spatulas, wooden spoons, etc. This will save you a lot of extra steps as you work. I keep all my cooking utensils in a big ceramic jar. My measuring stuff, apple corer, veggie peeler, etc. are kept in different little tray compartments in a big drawer. (You can buy several of these for a dollar at Walmart.) Make your kitchen efficient for you!

Cleaning Tips

2011-02-18T11:22:00.008-06:00

Like I mentioned yesterday, I love it when my house is clean! In my humble opinion, nothing smells better to me than a fresh, yummy-smelling house! I had a friend who loved the smell of fresh laundry. In fact, laundry was her favorite thing to do. Good thing, because she did around 3 loads a day! She said the scent of clean laundry made her happy.

On a trip to the mall, I found my way into a popular candle store. There was an entire shelf laden with every size of candle dedicated to the scent of fresh laundry. In fact, the label showed clothes blowing on a clothesline! I found a cute little tin about the size of a silver dollar that was a mini candle in that scent. I jokingly gave it to her, declaring that if she ever needed a pick-me-up, to give the candle a whiff!

The first step in cleaning is decluttering, a.k.a. de-junking! I just went through this process yesterday with my girls. My oldest inherited the pack-rat gene from me. She keeps every little card and note any friend has ever given her. She spends hours creating animals out of pipe cleaners that are only an inch or so wide and tall. She also carefully and lovingly cuts out a million or so heart shapes no bigger than the tip of your pinkie, coloring them every shade of the rainbow. She then stacks them into a folded piece of paper. These are all very important to her, even though they've fallen behind the dresser or under the bed.

My youngest is just plain messy! She could care less if her toys are under the bed or piled in corners. I've tried to be creative with different boxes for her to put stuff in, but it doesn't bother her to have her toy dishes mixed in with her Barbies. There are some days when I can't even look in the room because if I did, my blood pressure would go off the charts!

Yesterday I decided to take a deep breath and go for it. The girls & I began making piles of stuff that littered the floor. I'll admit that I just about lost it when I pulled out a sock from under the dresser and found an entire stockpile of missing socks that had been shoved under it instead of being placed in the hamper. Also in the arsenal were candy wrappers, scraps of paper, Barbie shoes, play food, and safety pins. The Lord was with me, and I didn't loose my cool.

In no time at all, we had divided the junk ~ I mean stuff ~ into 4 piles ~ Tweenager's Pile, Preschooler's Pile, Doesn't Belong In Our Room Pile, and the Trash! Tweenager & Preschooler tackled their piles and put everything in its place. Bubby took out the trash, and all 3 put the Doesn't Belong In Our Room things away where they belonged. Tweenager then vacuumed. Today is Bubby's turn. He's not so thrilled, but knows it has to be done! Pray for me!

After de-junking, it's time to clean! I'm not so particular about using chemicals. I have some friends who make their own all-natural products, but the thought of cleaning with white vinegar and baking soda makes me think my house will smell like pickles. (I believe this because when my mom & mother-in-law clean out their coffee pots with white vinegar, their house smells like pickles!) However, I say if that's important to you, go for it! They make tons of natural cleaners now, but I must confess, I love the old stand-bys: Pledge, Windex, 409, Mr. Clean, (Febreeze scented!) CLR, Lysol Cling, Scrubbing Bubbles, and Tilex.

I do suggest in investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner. The expense is well worth it! The hubs bought me a Dyson a couple of years ago, and I can't say enough good things about this vacuum! It really sucks the crud out of the carpet! Before I used it for the 1st time, I vacuumed the entire house with my old vac. Then came the test. Dyson's suction literally lifted the carpet fibers, and after one trip around my house, the dust canister was completely full!
Gross! I also like the 15 foot extension hose that has the different attachments. It's now a breeze to clean those pesky ceiling fans and spider threads that hang down! I just pop on the soft brush attachment, pull up, and the hose lifts right out. When I'm done, the hose slides right back into place. Love, love, LOVE this machine!

Another investment I believe to be worthwhile are the products by Swiffer. I have a Swiffer Wet-Jet and a Swiffer Vac. I use the Wet-Jet to clean the floors between regular moppings. It's also great to absorb up a liquid spill, like milk or soda. One pad soaks up the entire mess, a fresh one cleans it. The Swiffer Vac is great to clean up crumbs, dog hair, and crud the kiddos bring in from outside. I also like using the dusting pads, too. They really pick up dust from lampshades, and are great for under/around hard-to-get areas, like electronics.

I'm interested in Hoover's new scrubbing mop + vacuum. I like the idea of having the 2-in-1 They're around $75-$80, but there's not the extra expense of cleaning solution, mop pads, dust cloths or filters. I'm not sure how good it works, so I'll study up on it before/if I buy it.

For thorough cleanings, I have a Bissel ProDry Steam Vac we got through a great deal on Shop NBC. For my floors, I think that nothing beats the old-fashioned way ~ sponge mop, scrub brush, and bucket!

The dirtiest room in your house is, in fact, the kitchen. They've done tests and studies that show that you're better off eating an apple that's fallen into the toilet than one that's fallen into the kitchen sink! Okay, is anyone as repulsed as I am right now?

If your kitchen is anything like mine, it's actually the hub of the house. Our tiny dining space is right next to it. The only way out to the back yard is via the kitchen. My washer & dryer are on the far wall. Bella's (our sweet little mini Schnauzer) house is in a corner of the kitchen by the back door. Kiddos tramp though with muddy feet. Spills occur. Meat is thawed in the sink. A trash can is usually lurking nearby. Health is the most important reason our kitchens should be clean & free from clutter!

Tomorrow, I'll post some ways to help keep that kitchen fresh, clean, and sparkling!

Cleaning 101

2011-02-17T11:45:00.010-06:00

Yesterday's post touched on the importance of a clean & organized home. I believe that's it's incredibly important to have a house that's healthy and comfortable as well as a place that you're not embarrassed to show if unexpected company happens to drop by.

When my hubs comes in after a long day of work, the last thing he needs is to trip over shoes left by the front door, try to clear off a place for his lunch cooler & thermos, and move items off the couch so he can sit down!

When it's time to cook a meal, nothing's more frustrating than needing a pot to cook with ~ then realizing it's still in the sink from the night before with dried, crusting food sticking to it!

When it's time to do the laundry, nothing's more gross (or stinky!) than opening the lid to the washer and finding last week's wet towels you forgot to transfer to the dryer molding in the washing machine!

I'm in no way perfect with my housekeeping. I definately slip up from time to time ~ in fact, the above examples are from first hand experience! I'll be completely transparent with you and share that at this very moment, the floor in my closet has clothes piled on it, and I have wet clothes from last night still in the washer, waiting to be put in the dryer.

My mother was a fastideous housekeeper and ran a tight ship when it came to having a clean house. My brothers & I learned early on to keep our rooms neat and clean if we didn't want Mom upset. Clutter upset my mother horribly. Unfortunately, I was a bit of a pack-rat and didn't always meet her high standards. On more than one occasion, things would get unpleasant. The end result that I became like my mother ~ just as fastideous ~ just as demanding.

When I was a single woman, my apartment was always as neat as a pin, everything organized to perfection and scrubbed until it shown! Then, the hubs moved in. He's pretty organized, too, but we had to find room to add all of his stuff. One of the toughest things to fit was his huge metal desk. Did I mention it was ugly? There wasn't any extra space in the small bedroom or living room ~ I had already given up valuable wall space for his bookshelves! With no extra place for this horrific desk my new husband wasn't about to part with ~ no matter how many tears I shed ~ I soon realized that I had to get creative.

Fortunately, our apartment's floor plan had a large closet just off of the tiny dining area. On the bottom floors of the apartment complex, this area served as washer/dryer hookups. The second floors didn't have this option, but we had the space. Thankfully, after we cleaned out the closet, my husband's beloved, ugly desk fit right in, snug as a bug. We removed the closet doors, and I made a valance that matched my dining room to hide the ugly stack of boxes that was on the top shelf. I aptly named it "Hubby's Study Cove".

All in all, the hubs was pretty neat & clean, but he had this annoying habit that absolutely drove me nuts! Every evening, as soon as I had cleaned up the kitchen for the day ~ dishes whirling away in the dishwasher ~ he would take out a new glass, fill it an inch or so with water, drink it, and set it next to my sparkling sink. All I could think of was that my mother would've never allowed such blasphemy! Huffing and puffing, I washed the glass by hand, and put it away none too gently.

An hour or so later, he sweetly asked, "Honey, where's my glass?"
"I washed it and put it away," I replied through clenched teeth.
"Oh. I wanted another drink," he'd say nonchallantly, as he took out the glass and filled it up another inch before he'd drink it. Back by the sink it would go.

It took me a couple of years, but I learned to let it go. I realized that the hubs would always leave his glass by the sink, no matter what. Even after 14 years, his ritual is to get a glass out each night, and fill it an inch or two with water, drink it, and put it by the sink for a drink in the morning. I can honestly say that it doesn't bother me too much anymore, even though he's recently changed his "spot". The glass now goes next to/in front of the coffee pot.

With the addition of each child, I had more to keep clean and more clutter to keep up with. As I mentioned above, I had become a stickler for cleanliness, and sadly, my oldest daughter bore the brunt of my impossible standards. She was almost afraid to get her toys out and play, lest she make a mess and upset Mommy.

Thankfully, during a shameful Mommy meltdown, I caught a glimpse of my uncontrolled, unreasonable anger in a closet mirror. When I looked at my daughter's frightened face, I saw my own. I remembered my own childhood fears of my mother's anger. That was my turning point. Dropping to my knees, I asked my little girl to forgive me. Asking for her forgiveness was the first step to my own healing. Yes, I've slipped from time to time over the years, but the scripture "Be angry and sin not", comes to my mind, compelling me to ask for my children's forgiveness.

When my youngest came along, I began to lack the energy or motivation to do anything. I really began to slide, but I was too tired to care. Everything was becoming too much for me to handle. I used to be able to clean the house top to bottom within a few hours, now it took me days, and then it would just get messed up again! I felt overwhelmed and hopeless.

I've now learned that I can't do it all by myself. My 2 oldest are more than capable to make their beds, clean their rooms, lug in their hampers on wash day, and then put their laundry away. They can vaccuum/dust their own rooms as well. They also clear off the table after meals, and put away the clean dishes from the dishwasher each day. My youngest knows she has to put her toys away, but it can become a battle. I'm trying to learn creative ways to get her to do her jobs without me loosing my cool. She's learning how to put her clothes away, and she brings in her hamper as well.

Yes, a clean home is important, but we must find a balance between being uncaringly neglectful and fastideously controlling. Tomorrow, I'll be sharing some of my cleaning tips with you.

The Home Manager ~ Watching & Working

2011-02-16T12:21:00.003-06:00

Today's post is about our role as being the manager of our home. "She watches over the ways of her household..." Proverbs 31:27 states.

In Biblical times, watchmen were appointed to stand guard on the city's walls to watch for hostile action or suspicious activity. As home managers, we are given the same responsibility to be on the alert to watch over our households. As the one keeping watch, the woman turns her head, looking everywhere so that she doesn't miss a single detail.

She doesn't give a cursory glance over things. This godly woman oversees everything that pertains to her home with an intent gaze that studies everything closely. She knows what's going on under her roof.

Again, this lady carefully notices the patterns of her home life ~ the "ways" of her household ~ such as the general comings & goings, the habits and activities of the people at home.

Her "household" ~ her immediate family ~ is her main concern. A wise woman who carefully manages her home sees to it that her family is cared for spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Part of this caring is praying faithfully for your husband and children. To do, however, we have to look at our own walk with God and deal with any and all sin in our own lives before we can intercede for our beloved family.

With your family properly cared for, we can now turn our attention to our house ~ the place we work. I personally believe it's extremely important to have a house that is clean as well as organized! I also feel that making meals from scratch ~ using fresh foods is more healthy than buying frozen, processed foods or eating out too much.

All too often, even those of us who are stay-at-home-moms fail to recognize the importance of a clean home by just letting stuff "slide" for a while. We also fall into the convenience trap. I know in my own life, it's usually a result of poor use of my time or just plain laziness (eating the bread of idleness).

Tomorrow's post will be about the importance of cleaning and decluttering your home.

"I Love You" Day

2011-02-14T16:44:00.016-06:00

There are many ways we show our families how much we love them ~ keeping the house clean, folding their laundry, and fixing them meals comes to mind! However, last week, my preschooler's memory verse was from 1 John 3:18 ~ "My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth." Our theme song was "Let us love in action, let us love in truth." Those words convicted and challenged me to try to think of more creative ways to show my family how much I love them.

Since Valentine's Day being is today, I decided it was the perfect time to put my love into action!

I had planned on making our annual lasagna, salad & garlic bread for dinner, along with a red velvet heart-shaped cake. So, I asked myself, how could I be more creative? I had to go to Walmart anyway, so I braved the seasonal section and picked up a cute (cheap & reusable!) Valentine tablecloth, plastic (again, cheap and reusable!) Valentine cups, as well as paper plates, napkins, and Valentine cards. A quick trip to the dollar store gave me some cute decorations to hang from our light and on the patio door.

I got up a little earlier and surprised the kiddos with their favorite breakfast ~ pancakes, scrambled eggs & bacon. (I usually only make "special breakfasts" on the weekends.) To make it a little extra special, I tinted the pancake batter pink & made heart-shaped pancakes as well as their initial to put on top.

My oldest came in first, excited to smell pancakes cooking. When she saw the table, she was ecstatic! She ran back to wake up her brother & sister, exclaiming, "Hurry and come see! Mom made heart pancakes and we have decorations!"

The other two came scrambling in, excited and eager. My son said, "I knew you'd do something like this, Mom! I just knew it!" Youngest just looked around and then breathed, "Oh, Mommy, this is beautiful!"

It touched my heart to see how much my little acts of love ~ that didn't take much extra time and effort or added expense ~ thrilled them! They truly appreciated it!

My three little Valentines!

For dinner, I did make lasagna, but in cupcake form! I got the idea from another website ~ You just take 2 noodles, cross them, put in a layer of filling & sauce, and then fold one of the flaps over to cover the filling. You continue to layer until last flap is covered with sauce & cheese. It was pretty tasty, if I say so myself!

Lasagna Cupcake

We also had salad, and our favorite garlic bread. I made 12 red velvet cupcakes with heart sprinkles for the kids, and with the left over batter, made my hubs a heart-shaped cake. Dinner was rated 4 thumbs up!

Kiddos & the Hubs

Of course, I tell my children & husband how much I love them ~ every day, several times, in fact. But Preschooler's verse continued to come to mind: "Don't love just in word, but in deed." I wanted to put my love into action to bless my family, but I was blessed in return! Truly, it is more blessed to give than receive!"

My favorite pic of the day!

Making a House a Home ~ Avoiding the Negatives

2011-02-10T08:30:00.002-06:00

We've studied ways how to build our home, but let's not ignore the last half of our verse from Proverbs 14:1 ~ "the foolish [woman] pulls it down with her hands".

When I think of pulling a house down, my mind goes to the TV series "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition". You know where I'm going with this. Bulldozers, wrecking balls, and zealous people eagerly smash, rip, and tear down what used to be a house. Do you notice it doesn't take long to ruin it? One bash of wrecking ball, and the house is no longer a place of shelter. It's open to the elements, unstable, and unfit to live in.

So how can a woman destroy her own home? "First, a woman can cause great damage actively: by working destruction." Mrs. George writes. This is usually uncontrolled anger. "It throws, it slams, it tears, and it rips. It also breaks things as well as rules." Doing these things is destructive enough, but "anger out of control also speaks words that break, destroy, ruin, and kill."

Not only can a woman destroy her home actively, but by being too passive ~ simply failing to work. Failing to follow through with our duties as homemakers erodes the foundation of our home. Laziness, neglect, forgetfulness, putting things off, and not spending enough time at home tears our homes down brick by brick. Also included in this is ignoring our duties while we are at home by watching extended times of TV, surfing the Internet for hours at a time, reading "just one more chapter", and spending too much time on the phone.

Let me continue with the parallel I wrote earlier. Remember the wrecking ball? With one whack, a house is suddenly unfit for people to dwell there. Just like that house, the woman who tears down her home with active or passive destruction is leaving her family at risk ~ exposed to the elements (a sinful world) in a home that is unstable (by either her neglect or uncontrolled anger) and unfit to live in (a stressful, uncomfortable place).

I must confess that I've been convicted with this post. All too often, I tear down what I spend so much time trying to build ~ with my impatience or selfishness! Mrs. George gives three steps to remember when building a home:

1. Avoid any attitude or act that doesn't build your home. (In other words, self-control!)
2. Decide to begin building. It's never too late!
3. Each day, do one thing to build your home. (Outwardly, like cleaning up clutter or inwardly, like giving a soft answer.)

She concludes with this thought, "Search your heart and your home. Which of these two women is most like you? Where are you placing your focus and investing your energy? Look beneath the cleaning and cooking to your heart."

Making a House a Home ~ Building a Refuge

2011-02-09T15:40:00.002-06:00

Webster's defines refuge as a "shelter (a.k.a. something that covers, protects or defends) or protection from danger or difficulty". Other definitions include "a person or thing that gives shelter, help, or comfort" and "a place of safety; shelter; safe retreat". I was amazed as I thought about this! Part of my job as homemaker is to create a place my family feels secure, safe, and comfortable.

The old saying of "It's a jungle out there!" just about sums it up. It's harried and busy, and sometimes harsh and unkind. Our family needs a place to recuperate from a long day, and that place is home.

On a particular stressful day, my husband staggered in the front door, saying, "I knew if I could just get home, everything would be all right." Our home became that place of refuge for him. He needed the restful, calming atmosphere to unwind and refresh himself.

Even though we are a homeschooling family and my children are at home most of the time, I still need to create a place of refuge for them. A counselor reported that "a secure home life tends to reduce frustration and uneasiness in a child's life, and it gives them the ability to cope with pressures more effectively".

Oh, to build a home that strengthen/renews my family ~ to set up a place where hearts are renewed and souls are refreshed! What an amazing opportunity we're given as homemakers!

Making a House a Home ~ Creating an Atmosphere

2011-02-08T09:42:00.005-06:00

We all know this verse in Proverbs ~ "Every wise woman builds her house, but the foolish tears it down with her hands." Have you ever wondered ~ like me ~ what does it mean, exactly?

The verb "to build" actually means to make and to set up a house. This doesn't just imply the physical structure and upkeep of the house, but also to the family. That got me to thinking ~ how much more do I spend my time building (the upkeep) my house instead of building (nurturing) my family?

"Although the Hebrew word for "house" and "home" is the same, "home" is the preferred word here. This verse... speaks of home building; the knitting together of family and the day-by-day routine of creating a happy and comfortable place for a family to live." (Robert Alden)

I am the one who sets the mood and maintains the atmosphere inside my home. To be wise, like the verse above challenges, I have to diligently and purposefully create that atmosphere. I can't just hope it will happen on its own.

In her book "A Woman After God's Own Heart", Elizabeth George states that creating the atmosphere in our home is like using your thermostat to regulate the temperature inside your home. As the home manager, we are that thermostat, and we have the responsibility to set the ideal, comfortable temperature for our family.

Do I want the atmosphere to be warm, cheerful, loving, positive, and constructive? Then I must get my heart temperature right first! How can I possibly give away what I don't possess? Choosing to get up earlier to spend time alone with the Lord will help me to cultivate a heart like His.

Now, I have to "go to work to maintain the comfort in my home." Mrs. George writes, "If things start to get hot (hot words, hot tempers, hot emotions), I {must} set about to bring in cooling, soothing words ("a soft answer turns away wrath" ~ Proverbs 15:1) and words of peace ("the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace" ~ James 3:18).

Likewise, if things start to cool off (cold hearts, cold feet, cold shoulders), I {must} go to work giving a good word which makes hearts glad (Proverbs 12:25), remembering that "a merry heart makes a cheerful countenance: (Proverbs 15:13) and that "he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast" (Proverbs 15:15)."

Even through life's many challenges, my prayer is that God will give me the heart, wisdom and the words to create a healthy atmosphere in my home!

What is a Homemaker?

2011-02-07T13:48:00.003-06:00

I've not posted in a while, because, quite frankly, I haven't really had the desire to. It was just one more thing on my never-ending "to do" list. Besides, I felt as if I'd gotten away from the main idea of this blog, which was to encourage my fellow sisters who are homemakers.

That got me thinking ~ what exactly is a homemaker, anyway? A homemaker is more than just a stay-at-home mom or the wife who takes care of her house by keeping it clean and organized. Yes, those things obviously come into play, but it's so much more than that. I want to not only make my house a home, but I want to love it and those I care for.

Beginning tomorrow, I want to share practical as well as spiritual ideas for homemaking.

Also, since I homeschool my three kiddos, I've decided to begin a new blog devoted to their schooling. It's called The Homeschooler's Haven. The link is in my sidebar under "Places I Visit". Feel free to stop by sometime!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T19:09:00.002-06:00

Can you even believe it's 2011? I remember when, as a teenager, I couldn't fathom the year 2000 ~ Why, I'd be 32 years old! That seemed to be SO far away ~ so far removed from where I was ~ yet here we are, eleven years later, no less!

Happy 2011! Time for resolutions, time for new directions, time for change. I'm excited to see what the Lord has in store for my family in the coming year and how we will grow ~ hopefully closer to one another as we strive to move closer to our Savior!

My Absolute ~ Favorite ~ Bread Recipe

2010-12-25T21:55:00.006-06:00

A good friend of mine gave me this recipe for bread many years ago. It's also known as "Tupper Dough", a bread dough that you make in a large Tupperware bowl. Without further ado, here it is! :)

Ingredients:

9 c. all-purpose flour
1-1/2 c. milk
2/3 c. sugar
1/2 t. salt
1-1/2 c. cool water
4 eggs, beaten
2 packages dry yeast (not rapid rise)
2 sticks butter, melted

Directions:

Measure out 9 cups flour into large bowl. Make a well in the center. Meanwhile, scald milk and add sugar and salt. Stir to dissolve. Add in cool water and eggs. Pour into well of flour, and sprinkle dry yeast on top. Let sit in warm place for 1 hour.

Pour in melted butter and stir well to combine. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead until dough is a firm ball. Let sit in a tub of warm water (I usually fill my sink with hot tap water halfway up the outside of the bowl) for 30 minutes. Punch down dough and let rise another 30 minutes.

Form into rolls or loaves and let rise another 30 minutes or until doubled. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until golden. Brush tops with butter.

For cinnamon rolls, roll out dough and sprinkle with brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Add chopped pecans if desired. Slice, place in pan, and let rise/bake as suggested above. Frost with cream cheese icing!

Cream Cheese Icing:

6 oz. softened cream cheese
1/2 c. softened butter (no substitutes, please!)
2 t. vanilla
4-1/2 to 4-3/4 c. sifted powdered sugar

Beat cream cheese, butter and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, beating well. Gradually beat in enough powdered sugar to make frosting spreading consistency.

* Both of these recipes can be halved if necessary. *

It's Almost Christmas!

2010-12-14T12:15:00.003-06:00

My goodness, sisters, it's almost halfway through December, and only a week and a half before Christmas! Where has the time gone?

I've been reminded these past couple of weeks to savor the days we have, for we'll never get those moments again. My grandmother passed away November 28th ~ the day after she turned 93 ~ she was fortunate to still be able to think clearly and was, in reality, healthy as all get out. Her body was just tired and worn. I tried to imagine what it would be like to have been able to have all those years of life. What a gift! 93 years ~ 34,690 days ~ 832,560 hours ~ 49,953,600 minutes ~ 3,126,216,000 seconds/moments that affected the lives of so many people!

On the other side of the coin, Preschooler turned four on December 11th ~ just seems like yesterday she was a tiny baby ~ now she's singing scripture songs, writing her name (On her pink walls with a blue sharpie pen!) and learning cheers for her latest gig, an Upward cheerleader. She's completely adorable, fearless, funny, smart and absolutely precious ~ and I'm completely smitten with her!

I'm reminded that because of Jesus, we are given an abundant life, and as Christians, we should live our lives to the fullest! That said, I ask myself ~ how am I using the moments I have left in my life that will affect the lives of others ~ especially my husband and children?

An old song sums it up well, I think ~

It matters so little how much you may own.
The places you've been, or the people you've known.
For it all comes to nothing when placed at His feet,
It's nothing to Jesus,
Just memories to keep.

You may take all the treasures from far away lands,
Take all the riches you can hold in your hands.
And take all the pleasures your money can buy,
But what will you have when it's your time to die?

Only one life, so soon it will pass,
Only what's done for Christ will last.
Only one chance to do His will,
So give to Jesus all your days,
It's the only life that pays
When you recall, you've had but one life.

Simply Farmhouse Chicken

2010-11-16T11:36:00.003-06:00

Just tried this new recipe and all three kiddos loved it ~ 3 thumbs up! Super easy & very tasty!

Preheat oven to 350.

2 bone-in chicken breasts, with skin
olive oil
salt & pepper
1 T butter
1 medium onion, diced
4 celery ribs, diced
4 T butter
4 T flour
2 c. milk
1 pkg. chicken-flavored stuffing mix, prepared according to directions

Spray baking sheet with PAM. Place chicken breasts on baking sheet and drizzle olive oil over the tops. Sprinkle with salt & pepper. Roast chicken breasts for 30-40 minutes or until juices run clear.
While chicken is roasting, make stuffing mix and set aside to cool. Saute onions and celery in 1 T of butter until translucent and softened. Transfer to a bowl. In same saucepan, melt 4 T butter and add in flour to make a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, then add in milk. Cook until thickened.
Once chicken is roasted, pull back the skin and cut out the meat. Cut into bite-sized chunks. Add to white sauce, along with onion/celery mixture. Season to taste.
Pour chicken mixture into greased 8x8 square pan. Top with prepared stuffing. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and top is golden brown.

* I got the idea of roasting chicken from Ina Garten, aka "The Barefoot Contessa". Roasting the chicken this way makes it SO flavorful & juicy ~ it's worth the extra trouble!

God's Promise of Comfort

2010-10-06T12:59:00.009-05:00

Psalm 23:4 "I will fear no evil, for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me."

My last Psalm 23 post was about the promise of God's presence. Even with he was fleeing for his life, David found comfort in knowing that God was with him, fully armed with His rod and staff. "For thou art with me" shows the omnipresence of God. Jehovah~Shammah, "Jehovah is there".

The history behind Jehovah~Shammah is found in the book of Ezekiel. God chose the prophet Ezekiel to announce to the nation of Israel that they have been taken as captives because of their sins. At one time, they were a proud nation, but chose to reject God over and over again. God allowed the Babylonians to attack and destroy Jerusalem. Their beloved Solomon's temple lay ransacked and in ruin. Those that survived were taken away as captives. No longer stiff-necked and prideful, the survivors felt as if God had abandoned them and were genuinely sorry for their sin.

Mrs. George writes, "In fact, their sorrow was so deep that they could not even sing their beloved songs about the beauty of Zion, of Jerusalem, but instead hung their harps on the willow trees... and wept. (Psalm 137).

God, Who is "I Am that I Am" and is always there, spoke to Ezekiel and told him that He would restore the land of Judah and return his people to it!

Mrs. George talked about what makes our God unique. Throughout history, He's always been with his chosen people. They didn't have to be in a particular place to have His presence with them.

That got me to thinking:

Adam walked with God in the cool of the day in the Garden. Noah found grace in His eyes and knew God was with him as he took shelter in the ark for well over a year. Abraham talked with the incarnate Christ at an impromptu meal in front of his tent and at the top of Mt. Moriah . Jacob wrestled with Him. Moses heard His voice in a burning bush and saw the back of His glory. He led the Children of Israel through the cloud by day and pillar of fire by night. His Shekinah glory dwelt in the newly constructed tabernacle for 40 years of wandering as well as throughout OT history. Joshua saw him as the Captain of the Host, ready and armed to fight for Israel. Gideon saw him on the threshing floor. He was in the fiery furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abendego. Finally, He came as the promised Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God ~ Redeemer, Savior, and Friend ~ and now resides within those of us who know Him as our Savior!

Isn't that SO cool?

Comfort is There:

Remember that valley of the shadow of death? It's a place of constant danger, but take comfort because our Shepherd is armed!

The Rod is There:

Sheep have no defenses. They completely rely on their Shepherd to protect them. This rod/club is made from oak and is about 2 feet long. They carve a hole into it and thread in a loop to either be tied to the shepherd's belt or so that it can hang from his wrist. Sometimes metal spikes are driven in so that it can be used to kill an attacking animal.

The rod is an instrument of protection and death. The shepherd uses it to swing before him through the tall grass, preparing the way for the sheep. It can frighten away enemies, and can be used to kill any enemies of his flock, from animals to robbers.

The Staff is There:

Not only does our Shepherd defend and protect us, He directs us and points out the way. That's what the staff is for. In comparison to the rod, the staff is about 6 feet in length. It helps the shepherd climb up and over rocks, checking for their stability before he leads his sheep to there. He can check out crevices that snakes and scorpions can hide in that can harm his flock. His staff prods loitering sheep and can separate those that are fighting.

The crook on the other end of the staff can be used to restrain or guide a sheep as well as keep it from falling. And, of course, we've all seen the picture of the Shepherd rescuing a sheep that's wandered away from the fold.

The staff draws the flock together and keeps them from wandering. He counts the sheep with it by lightly tapping each one on the head as it enters the sheepfold. "A touch of the staff becomes a gesture of intimacy while walking, even though the shepherd towers over the sheep." The staff also coaxes the sheep to follow. "For instance, a tap on a back legs brings a sheep into position, and a tap on the head of the lead sheep makes it lie down so that the others will follow."

So, during difficult times, remember:

The place ~ the valley of the shadow of death.
The proclamation ~ I will fear no evil.
God's presence ~ for thou art with me.
God's protection ~ thy rod and thy staff.
God's promise ~ they comfort me.

"He's still there, and He sees all my sorrow.

He's still there when everything goes wrong.

He hears me when I cry in desperation.

He feels the pain of all my deep frustration.

He's still there. He sees beyond tomorrow.

He's still there, His love is ever strong.

He'll sustain through every care,

My lonely hours He'll share.

For beyond the shadow, Jesus is still there.

Yes, beyond the shadow, Jesus is still there.

He's still there."

The Redemption Series

2010-10-01T08:30:00.001-05:00

If you like contemporary Christian fiction and aren't acquainted with Karen Kingsbury yet, you've got begin with her Redemption series!

Karen wrote this series with Gary Smalley, who is a well-known relationship expert. This series of five books begins with "Redemption" and introduces the reader to the Baxter family.

Dr. John Baxter and his wife, Elizabeth have 5 children ~ 4 daughters, Brooke, Kari, Ashley and Erin ~ and a son, Luke. Brooke and her husband are doctors and have 2 young daughters. Kari is a fashion model and her husband is a professor at the local university. Erin and her husband have recently moved to Texas. Ashley, who has returned home from Paris, considers herself to be the "black sheep of the family" and is a single mother. Luke is still living at home and is unforgiving to Ashley because of the choices she's made in life.

Redemption revolves around Kari and her husband, Tim. When Kari finds out that Tim has been having an affair with a student, she returns home to sort things out. However, when Ryan, an old flame from her past shows up, and Kari is more confused than ever. How can she forgive her husband? What about her renewed feelings for Ryan? What will she do? This is a story of love at all costs.

Remember is about Ashley and what happened to her in Paris. She returned home pregnant and jaded ~ unforgiven by her brother, Luke. She considers herself hopeless, so why doesn't Landon Blake leave her alone? Can working in a nursing home facility somehow help her come to grips with her past? This story is a journey from tragedy to healing.

Return is the story of Luke. The much-loved youngest and only son of John and Elizabeth is quite the golden boy. He seems to stand firm in his faith, but is judgemental toward others, especially his sister, Ashley. However, in the span of one day ~ September 10-11, 2001 ~ his life completely changes. Luke leaves his faith and his family. This is a story of tenacious love and longing for a lost son.

Rejoice is the story of Brooke and her husband, Peter. They are already struggling in their marriage when they are faced with the single worst moment ever. What was supposed to be a pool party for their two daughters ends in disaster leaving their three-year old, Hayley, fighting for her life. Peter, who blames himself for the accident, withdraws from his family and tries to find ways to ease his pain. This is a story of unspeakable loss and the overwhelming miracle of new life.

Reunion is the story of John & Elizabeth. In this final book of the Redemption series, plans are being made for a family reunion. Nearly all the adult Baxter children have a reason to celebrate ~ except one. As the preparations get under way, a deadly diagnosis sends shock waves through the Baxter family and threatens to tear them apart. This is a story of God's grace and redemption, his victory even in the most difficult times.

I liked these books because the characters were "real" Christian people who struggle. All Christian men & women struggle with lust, pride, guilt and fear. It's how we deal with it that makes us different from the world.

Although some aspects of the books are a little typical ~ the characters are wealthy, attractive, popular and talented ~ it doesn't get in the way of the story. Karen delves into their souls and you see a real person.

A New Look!

2010-09-18T17:54:00.002-05:00

As you may be able to tell from my new blog design, I LOVE Autumn! The cooler weather, plus the fact that most of the stores are coming out with their Autumn merchandise has prompted me to go ahead and change my design.

Autumn has always been my favorite time of the year! Cooler weather, changing leaves, the smell of a wood fire, sweaters and pumpkins always put me in a festive mood! I love taking the kiddos to the apple orchard, the pumpkin patch, our "Trunk or Treat", and, of course, Thanksgiving!

This is going to be the best season yet! I can just feel it! Let's celebrate!

What's Going On ~

2010-09-15T12:18:00.004-05:00

Oh, how I wish I had the discipline to blog every day! Seems like my daily life rushes by, and I neglect to get to the computer! I don't know how so many women do it! They must be amazingly organized! I have managed to schedule some posts, but the day to day thing is almost too much for me!

That being said, I've managed to sneak in a minute while the water's boiling for my kid's fave lunch of all time ~ mac & cheese! I still need to do a couple loads of laundry, though, as well as grade papers and record the grades. The house is vacuumed, but I need to dust, Windex and mop, as well as clean the bathroom ~ sigh ~ all before my piano student arrives later this afternoon.

My pastor asked me to direct the adult choir for the Christmas cantata, and I'm so excited! I haven't conducted an adult choir for over 10 years, so I was a little nervous! Thankfully, the first rehearsal went well. Several people told me how much fun they had and that they really enjoyed it. I was so happy! Although I love to sing and play the piano, but I believe my "true" God-given talent is in choral conducting. I find absolute delight in teaching parts and leading the choir past the notes and rhythms to realize/recognize the meaning of the songs they're singing.

That's what's going on in mi casa this rainy Wednesday afternoon!

Utterly Peanut Buttery Bars

2010-09-04T08:30:00.001-05:00

These are delicious right out of the oven! The filling transforms into this incredibly decadent peanut butter-flavored caramel that's a dream! If you love peanut butter, this dessert's for you!

Preheat oven to 375.

Ingredients:

For the crust:
1 stick butter, softened
1/2 c. peanut butter
1-1/2 c. sugar
1/2 t. vanilla
1-1/2 c. flour

For the filling:
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. light brown sugar
2 T. peanut butter

Directions:

Crust:
Mix butter, peanut butter & sugar until well blended. Stir in vanilla. Add flour & mix well. (Mixture will be crumbly). Reserve 1 c. of mixture for topping. Press remaining mixture into 9x13 pan. (I prefer using an 11x7.)

Filling:
Beat eggs & sugars together until smooth. Add in peanut butter. Spread over unbaked crust. Sprinkle with reserved topping mixture. Bake 20 minutes if using the 9x13, (If using the 11x7, bake an additional 15 minutes.) or until golden. Let cool in pan, cut into bars. Makes 2 dozen bars of rich, peanut buttery deliciousness!

God's Promise of Presence ~ Part 2

2010-09-03T10:58:00.003-05:00

Well, yesterday showed us the way of the path when we're in the valley. Although the way was dark, we saw God's promise that He'd be with us during the difficult times.

The Walk of the Path:

Thankfully, the shepherd~king David didn't end this psalm with us in the valley of the shadow of death. Mrs. George writes, "We do not stop and stay there (in the valley) in its foreboding darkness. Neither David's psalm nor this book are meant to discourage the Lord's sheep. Oh, no! Quite the opposite! For, you see, every shadow is produced by light. It is impossible to have a shadow without light."

And, as those who are part of the flock of God, we know that "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" Jesus is the Light of the world and "...lights our path...one step at a time...one turn at a time."

Mrs. George reminds us that:
a. We walk by divine appointment. The valleys are never accidental or some kind of cosmic mistake. We are led by the all-knowing, all-powerful, all-present Jehovah!

One of my favorite choruses says this:

"Oh rejoice in the Lord, He makes no mistake.

He knoweth the end of each path that I take.

For when I am tried and purified,

I shall come forth as gold."

b. We walk by divine presence. "No matter the twists and turns, the entanglements and obstacles along the path, 'You are with me,' David declares. We are never alone along the way. God is always with us, and He never fails."

c. We walk by divine grace. Although the walk can be fearful, we must acknowledge that God promised that His grace is and will be sufficient for all of our needs (2 Corinthians 12:9). It's comforting to know that when we need God's grace, it will be there!

d. We walk by divine purpose. This walk will ultimately bring us intimacy with the Shepherd. Mrs. George writes, "Just as we must go out into the dark night to behold the brilliance of the stars, so God's presence shines the brightest in our valleys of deep darkness."

The "I Will" of the Path ~

David wrote, "I will fear no evil." If anyone ever understood what it meant to be afraid, it was David. As a young teenager, he killed a lion and a bear (1 Samuel 17:32-37) and he faced a giant (1 Samuel 17:45-51). As a man, he missed several assassination attempts by King Saul and had to live on the run. Even after he became King of Israel, he had to flee from his own son's attempt to overthrow his throne. David knew fear well.

However, David also knew the Shepherd well! "He boldly declared, 'I will fear no evil.' Why? Because of the presence of God ~ 'You are with me.'"

Sisters, we are not to fear. Why? Because, just like David, we walk with the Lord. Whatever may come our way, we will walk through it with the Shepherd, in His presence. As David wrote in a later Psalm, the Lord is "a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear..." (Psalm 46:1-2).

I wish to conclude today's post with Mrs. George's final thoughts.

"And so, beloved...

Sing... as you pass onward through the valley of the shadow of death, and let the notes of your joy vibrate against the walls of that valley!

Seek... greater knowledge of the Lord, your Shepherd by faithfully acquainting yourself with his omnipotence and His omnipresence as revealed in His eternal Word!

Step... out in faith onto each and every path, knowing that "The Lord is my Shepherd ~ not was, not maybe, not will be. The Lord is my Shepherd ~ is on Sunday, is on Monday, is through every day of the week; is in January, is in December, and every month of the year; is at home, is in China; is in peace, and is in war; is in abundance and is in poverty. The Lord is my Shepherd!"

God's Promise of Presence ~ Part 1

2010-09-02T12:00:00.004-05:00

Psalm 23:4 "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me..."

So far, our study of the 23rd Psalm has been uplifting, hasn't it? Our Shepherd leads and feeds us; He makes sure we have adequate rest and peace; He heals us of our soul's diseases and guides us faithfully.

However, life's going to be like the old song ~ "Give Them All to Jesus" ~ reminds us. "He never said we'd only see sunshine. He never said there would be no rain." In other words, we can't stay up in the sunny green pastures beside the glistening still waters all the time. There are times in our lives when our paths will wind down into the valley of the shadow of death.

The "valley" is associated with the wadis of the Middle East. No other term but "wilderness" fits here. It's a desert with pits, ravines, and drought. The terrain suggests nothing but danger and death.

Mrs. George writes that the term "shadow of death" occurs 18 times in the Old Testament. Each use of the word means darkness. "Deep darkness, very deep darkness, thick darkness, and a darkness as dark as death."

Sisters, have you ever experienced times in your life when the darkness seemed to overshadow you and press you down, threatening to swallow you up as you had to journey into this next step of the unknown? I have. When I was pregnant with my youngest, I had a recurring dream that I developed complications while giving birth and that I died, leaving my husband to raise 3 little ones on his own. I talked to my doc about it, and she said that those types of dreams were somewhat "normal", so not to worry. I prayed for good dreams each night, but still felt apprehensive. Fast forward to the big day. "Popsicle" arrived via scheduled C-section as planned. All went well until an hour or so later when the nurses noticed that I wasn't bleeding at all. I began to get dizzy and was out of it. I had developed a large blood clot, and had to be put under and have a procedure akin to a D&C to remove it.

I remember thinking "This is my dream, and I'm not going to make it!" I felt the icy fingers of darkness surround me, pressing me down as the anesthesiologist told me to count backwards from 10. I remember praying, "God, please be with me!" as I began to count and a peace settled over me. When I awoke and realized that I had, indeed, survived, I was overcome with a thankful heart. Even during that scary time, I cried out to God, knowing that He was right there, beside me ~ to comfort me ~ or ~ if He chose to do so, take me home.

That, my sisters, is our dear Shepherd's promise: He is with us! His grace is there to see us through those difficult times! There's an old saying that reminds us that "The will of God will never lead you where the grace of God cannot keep you." What's even more joyous to realize is that "I walk through the valley of the shadow of death..."

Mrs. George writes, "It's true that the perilous valley is a part of life's path.... But it's also true that we can grasp the hand of God as we descent the frightening path into the valley, into the devouring darkness. We can rest in the knowledge that He, this path, has already been trod. And we are walk...calmly...with Him...remembering the words, "Yea, though I walk..."

"So walk! Don't pause. Don't falter. Don't ponder. Just proceed. Walk! Know that as the Shepherd's dear sheep and as God's beloved child and with the Lord beside you, you will walk through it. It comforts the soul to know that the Good Shepherd does not take His sheep into the valley of darkness to stay ~ but to pass through it!"

There's more to this study, but I just want to savor this thought for today!

God's Promise of Guidance

2010-09-01T13:35:00.005-05:00

Psalm 23:3 "He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake."

It has been said that it takes 21 days to eliminate a bad habit and replace it with a new one. Have you ever heard of this or done it? I've had failure and success. It seems that the old ways ~ i.e. "bad", "wrong", "lesser" ~ are so deeply ingrained that it almost seems impossible to improve or change them!

Why? Mrs. George sums it up with one word ~ REPETITION! She writes, "It is said that a habit is a custom/practice that's acquired by repetition. A habit is an action that, due to repetition, increases in performance and decreases in resistance. So, by repetition, an action becomes automatic, and a habit (good or bad) is born."

So, is there any hope for us to break habits that aren't pleasing to the Lord? Psalm 23:3 reveals yet another role the Shepherd takes in our lives ~ "He LEADS us in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake." That means that if we stay close beside Him and walk where He guides us, our habits will eventually change and will ultimately honor His name. We'll develop holy habits.

The Paths:

Webster's Dictionary defines a path as "a track or way worn by footsteps; a trail." We live near an historic site of the Oregon Trail. To this day, you can still see the lines etched into the earth by the literal thousands of covered wagons that made this venture in the 19th century! Talk about repetition! I knew of a woman who daily visited her daughter and granddaughter who lived next door to her. In a matter of weeks, she had worn a path that connected the two homes!

The Hebrew word for "paths" or more literally, "ways" means literal tracks made by constant use.

Proverbs 31:27 says, "She watches over the ways (paths/tracks) of her household." This diligent mom is, in reality, a shepherdess of her home. She notices the patterns of her home life ~ the general comings and goings; the habits and activities of the people at home. She keeps up~to~the~minute stats of her family members and the general flow of her home. She's aware of everything that goes on within its walls.

Those of us who are moms have, to some degree, experienced the pain of watching one of our little flock struggle, stumble and stray.

Let me share my own personal description of how this happened today. My youngest, who is almost 4, has been told repeatedly since the time she could crawl not to be underfoot when I'm at the stove. I'm nervous that I could trip over her and hurt her, or that she could be burned in some way. I adore my little "Popsicle" (as I call her) and love her near me, but she's always had issues with this. Constant "no-no's" and gentle pats on the bottom to move her along have worked to an extent, but she still returns to where the action is. Today, however, as I was transferring piping hot macaroni back to the saucepan from the colander, my little one (who was undetected right behind me) got a sprinkling of super-hot water on her little arm. She screamed in pain and a couple of red marks appeared on her skin. I felt terrible for her as I kissed her and wiped away tears. A cool cloth and attention from mommy made her feel better in time, but I couldn't help but remind her that if she had minded me in the first place, she wouldn't have gotten hurt.

Although this situation is on a much smaller scale, the fact that remains is this: Our mother's heart aches if those we love make choices that lead them down unhealthy paths. We hurt, but we also act! We do all we can to correct the situation ~ be it by setting new rules, narrowing boundaries, or making new disciplinary methods that carry more severe consequences. Why? Because we LOVE our little flock!

Now, dear sisters, we can grasp the Shepherd's divine love for us ~ His sheep! God notices the ways of our paths ~ He leads and guides us in the "paths of righteousness".

The Paths of Righteousness:

"Righteous" paths are stiff or straight paths. After all, God is pure and holy. He wants His sheep to be righteous. In the Bible, the word righteousness is used in the following ways:

With men, righteousness indicated a full measure. Measurements and weights were to be just and right.
With God, righteousness indicated a full measure in the spiritual sense. Offering God only what was sincere as opposed to half-hearted.
With a court, righteousness indicated a full measure of righteous judgment. Judges and officers were to render justice and make things right.

Okay, are you as intimidated as I am right now? Do you think, "There's no way I can ever measure up to that standard!" Be encouraged, my dear sisters ~ we serve a God who promises to guide us into righteousness! The One Who states, "Be ye holy as I Am holy" will guide us!

The God of Righteousness:

Jehovah~Tsidkenu ~ which means "Jehovah our righteousness". It first appears in Jeremiah 23:5-6.

After the death of King Solomon, the kingdom of Israel was divided into two kingdoms; the Northern Kingdom, which was called Israel, and the Southern Kingdom, which was Judah. Although both kingdoms "did evil in the sight of the Lord", Judah was occasionally ruled by kings that "did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, according to all that David his father did".

However, by this writing of Jeremiah, the Kingdom of Judah was falling apart. God's chosen people were sinning grievously, even polluting the house of the Lord. God sent His prophets to warn His people, but their messages were completely ignored. Jeremiah, also known as "The Weeping Prophet" had to tell the people that they would, indeed, be taken away and made captives.

Although it was terrible news, God ~ Who is too good to be unkind ~ kept His promise to King David (2 Samuel 7:16) that Israel would be restored to their land, and that Jehovah would raise up to David a Righteous Branch ~ Jehovah~Tsidkenu ~ the Messiah, Jesus Christ!

That thrills my heart, sisters! Because of Jesus' work on the cross, we CAN become righteousness! Because of the covering of His precious blood, when God sees me, He sees righteousness! Like an old song states, "His blood was not just blood of another spotless lamb. But His blood was precious blood, for it washed the sins of man. And His blood, it heals my body, and it sets my spirit free. I'm so glad His precious blood still flows from Calvary."

The Purpose of God's Guidance:

This is the most compelling aspect for me ~ it's "for His name's sake". God wants us to be righteous to bring Him glory ~ to maintain His reputation. As Mrs. George states, "God's name points not only to a title for Him, but to his very nature."

So, how does God guide us into the paths of righteousness?

Bible reading ~ Psalm 119:105
Prayer

What are the desires of my heart? Is my first desire to be God's will ~ no matter what it is and no matter what it costs?

Am I living my life in a way that honors the Lord, that exhibits to the whole watching world what the paths of righteousness are?

Am I walking near the Shepherd ~ delighting in His guidance and allowing nothing to distract me from His paths?

Am I willing to go where He guides me?

Much for me to ponder on, sisters. Until tomorrow!

My Favorite Hospitality Books

2010-09-01T08:30:00.001-05:00

Hospitality is an area I struggle with. Although I love to have people over, it seems that nowadays, everyone has such busy schedules that it's difficult to get together! Also, I've found (at least in our area) that people go out to restaurants together more than they fellowship in one another's homes. That usually leaves us out because eating out is SO expensive!

During my childhood and teen years, I remember my mother inviting other families over for dinner and get-togethers. During special holidays, there were always extra places reserved for college students who couldn't get home, families who may not have had enough money to have their own feasts, as well as the "significant others" in mine and my older brothers' relationships.

Well, sisters, I say we return to the "old ways"! What better way to let people realize how much you care by preparing a nourishing meal and planning a fun time to spend together?

In Karen Ehman's book, "A Life That Says Welcome: Simple Ways to Open Your Heart & Home to Others", Karen encourages the reader to look for someone to be hospitable with, then take the steps to actually DO IT! This books gives great ideas for dinners and parties, cleaning and decorating tips and even recipes. I LOVE this book!

Karen also penned another book with her friends Kelly Hovermale and Trish Smith. "Homespun Memories for the Heart" is a great source for making your home special for your family. There are more than 200 ideas to "make unforgettable moments". The book is divided by sections to celebrate the seasons, birthdays, milestones such as weddings, anniversaries and adoptions, celebrating our faith and even the everyday. They've included tags, labels, certificates and coupons, too. A fabulous book!

Jane Jarrell has 2 books I've enjoyed. My favorite is "Love You Can Touch". Chapter titles include "New Neighbor", "Just Because You're My Friend", and "Children Going Off to School". Each chapter gives tips for a meal or treat, as well as how to package it. This book is fun!

Her other book is entitled "Simple Hospitality". Jane defines hospitality with an acrostic.

H ~ Hospital for the Soul
O ~ Obedience
S ~ Simplicity
P ~ Prayer
I ~ Intimacy
T ~ To go
A ~ Acknowledge and Appreciate
L ~ Lifestyle
I ~ Ideas
T ~ Time
Y ~ You

She has great chapters like "Faking Homemaking" and "The Kitchen Magician". Wonderful read!

My last book is entitled "Heavenly Hospitality" by Jo Ann Janssen. Practical ideas on organization, welcoming unexpected guests, dinner parties, feeding large crowds and making overnight guests feel pampered and welcome are in this book. I really love it!

Okay ~

2010-08-31T22:11:00.002-05:00

Okay, so it's now late Tuesday evening and I haven't gotten around to posting my Psalm 23 blog. Have you ever had one of those days where you just can't get around, no matter how hard you try?

I did manage to get the kiddos going on school, but getting into the shower and getting motivated for the day just didn't happen yesterday ~ or today!

I'm setting aside time to blog tomorrow ~ not much planned in the housecleaning department, only a few loads of laundry, vacuuming and dusting. Shouldn't be too terribly busy tomorrow. Until then, sisters!

Hash Brown Quiche

2010-08-28T08:30:00.000-05:00

I love this breakfast quiche from none other than Miss Paula Deen! If you love a "farmer's breakfast", this simple quiche is a winner!

Preheat oven to 450.

Ingredients:

4 c. shredded frozen hashbrowns, thawed & drained
1/2 stick melted butter
4 large eggs, beaten
1 c. half & half
3/4 c. diced, cooked ham (crumbled bacon or prepared sausage would work, too)
1/2 c. sliced green onions
1 c. shredded cheddar
salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

Toss hashbrowns with butter. Press into a 9" pie plate. Bake at 450 for 20-25 minutes or until golden & crisp. Mix remaining ingredients and pour into hot crust. Lower oven temperature to 350. Bake additional 30 minutes or until golden & puffed.

This & That

2010-08-27T12:45:00.012-05:00

Today I enjoyed fiddling around with a new blog design ~ I hope you find the change as refreshing as I have! I wanted to do a new one for autumn ~ my favorite time of year ~ but decided it was too early yet. I've got everything picked out, so I'll be changing my design sometime in late September ~ early October.

I finally (!) found my devotional on Psalm 23 (I had taken it to church to share w/ my ladies' SS class and left it in my attache ~ just thought to look there last week!) so we'll resume our study on Monday.

I'm so excited to now have 8 followers! When I decided to blog, I did so to be a source of encouragement to my fellow sisters in Christ. I wanted to share the truths I learned as I studied God's Word. I wanted to be transparent as I shared my struggles/joys/rewards of being a wife, mother, homemaker and Christian woman in today's world.

One of the reasons I chose to begin my own blog was because I wondered if anyone else ever struggled as I did. When I first discovered Christian homemaking blogs ~ aka "Titus 2 blogs" ~ I noticed a pattern. Not only were these women super-organized with HUGE household binders that they followed to the letter, but they were more than happy to share how they managed their homes!

At first, I was impressed! These bloggers had designed their own home management binders ~ some were even for sale ~ with pages and pages of detailed guides for chores, cleaning, laundry, and home-schooling schedules. Some included a section for quiet time, journaling, weekly/monthly menu ideas, shopping lists, phone directories and "Prairie Muffin" manifestoes. I felt as if I were sadly lacking in my God-given responsibility to be an effective homemaker, so I dutifully designed and printed out pages and pages for myself. (Ironically, the hours I spent preparing my binder kept me away from building on my home and family!)

I wish to state that I have no problem with home management binders. The Bible encourages us to do things "decently and in order" (1 Corinthians 14:40). It's great to have everything you need in one place. However, it seemed that these bloggers set these incredibly high standards for themselves (and others, according to how many other women posted about their similar binders) to live up to. They seemed to be prideful in their accomplishments of what they had to do each day.

In time, I began to feel intimidated by their posts instead of being encouraged. It seemed to me that they were implying that this is the way a healthy, God-fearing Christian homemaker should be ~ by being dresses only, wearing head coverings, making your own bread and clothes, and being KJV only.

(Doctrinal disclaimer: I myself believe the KJV to be the most accurate translation of the original Hebrew and Greek. However, the other versions are great for contrast/comparison Bible study.)

In continuation, these bloggers posted a week's worth of pictures of themselves in dresses and head coverings. Many made videos of tours showcasing their homes. I'm sure these bloggers only had the best intentions, but in reality, they unwittingly set themselves up as a standard for other women to aspire to.

Although there's nothing wrong with that per se, some women can fall into the trap of thinking themselves more spiritual/godly if they abide by certain "standards". In the comment section of one popular blog, I saw/read of women who were berating others that didn't believe as the blogger and the majority of her followers did. It was in this comment section that I discovered that there was actually a "hate" blog dedicated to "expose" the blogger for "who she really was". Disgusted, I quit reading this woman's blog. I couldn't help but realize that such is the reaping when one sows the seed of discord ~ in this case, the woman setting herself as the lofty "standard" of a "godly" homemaker.

Here is the fact: Jesus is THE only Standard! We're all sinners, saved by grace ~ our righteousness is nothing but filthy rags. Because of His grace and mercy, Jesus has redeemed us all! He is the Relentless Lover of our souls Who isn't willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. I'm so thankful that Jesus looks upon my heart ~ not my outward appearance!

It's not going to make a bit of difference for the Kingdom if I'm super-organized with a home management binder. God simply wants me in my home, working and weaving on it each day. Jesus isn't impressed with my vaccuumed floors or sparkling toilets. He wants my heart to be clean for communion with Him. He wants my speech to be sweet and sparkling ~ uplifting and encouraging. My Savior doesn't care if I make homemade bread or buy Sara Lee. He is the Bread of Life! He wants me to do my household chores joyfully ~ because, in reality, as I serve my family, I'm serving Him!

What matters is this: I am on assignment from God to help, submit to, and love my husband. I am to teach, pray for, and enjoy my children. God wants me to watch over, build, and care for my home and family every day. My desire as a homemaker is to make our household a place of tranquility, rest, and refreshment. The ultimate goal for my home is that the hubs and kiddos will think, "When I get home, everything will be all right!"

Although I have my own personal preferences ~ not to be confused with doctrinal convictions ~ concerning my Christian walk, I will never use this blog to dictate them. I believe that anyone of any "religion" can be saved as long as they realize that: Jesus is the only way to Heaven (John 14:6) ~ that they have recognized their need for a Savior (Romans 3:23) ~ and that they have asked Jesus to save them (Romans 10:9-13).

With this blog, I never want to set myself as a standard ~ I fail ~ miserably ~ all too often! I hope to share, to encourage, and to inspire my fellow sisters in Christ. We are to have an abundant life, filled with the desire to love and serve our Savior!

Homeschool: Year 2

2010-08-06T16:25:00.002-05:00

Monday morning marks the 2nd year of my family's homeschool journey. I've kept busy these last weeks by printing, laminating, cutting, making lesson plans, and organizing for the year.

As I've stated in earlier posts, my youngest will be joining us for school this year. She's SO excited! Everything that she sees, she asks, "Is that for my school?" Thanks to Carissa's site, www.1plus1plus1equals1.com, and www.confessionsofashomeschooler.blogspot.com, my mom's borrowed printer, and reams of cardstock and paper, I now have everything prepared for the next 7 weeks for my preschooler's Bible/Phonics work.

During 1st quarter, we'll learn about the farm. I've made a cute farm lapbook, using some of Carissa's Tot School "Farm" components, as well as some others I've gleaned from the web. If I had computer savvy, I'd post photos of them ~ but sadly, I don't! All I can say is I think it's cute and Preschooler will love it!

I'm doing "Calendar Time" like Carissa's and all 3 of my kiddos will take part. Eventually, my oldest will be able to be in charge of Calendar Time, so that will free up a little bit of time to throw a load of clothes into the wash!

I've got 1 month of lesson plans completed for my 5th grader and 3rd grader, my gradebook ready, and materials organized for them. I made each of them a Language Arts notebook that has their weekly assignments for English, Spelling, Phonics, Reading, and Handwriting as well as sections for their English Handbook and any other components they need. They also have a Bible Notebook that's divided into sections for daily work, hymns, maps, glossary and "Heroes of Faith" section (we use Bob Jones Bible). I also added a pocket for any crafts they may make and to place in their timelines. There's also plenty of notebook paper, too.

All in all, I think I'm ready. I still have a couple of things to purchase, a few things to laminate, and a little more to do, but I'm confident that come Monday, I'll be prepared!

My Favorite "Mommy Books"

2010-08-01T08:30:00.005-05:00

What, you may ask, are "Mommy books"? The Mommy books I own are ones that encourage me, give practical ideas for my relationship with the kiddos, offer sound Biblical advice, and keep me in touch with what's going on so I can protect my children.

"Hide and Seek" by Dr. James Dobson and "Shepherding a Child's Heart" by Ted Tripp are books I turn to time after time.

One of my favorite books that talks about raising my daughters is called "Your Girl: Raising a Godly Daughter in an Ungodly World" by Vicki Courtney. Vicki, the founder of Virtuous Reality Ministries and Yada Yada Events tackles issues (like counteracting the culture, self~worth, purity, modesty, bullying, and preparing our daughters for spiritual battle) with wisdom and humor. Beth Moore is quoted as "A must read for every daughter's mother." Definitely a great resource!

Another is "Mom's Everything Book for Daughters" by Becky Freeman. This book offers reading for the mom, then incorporates "Chick Chat" where you spend time talking and building your relationship, "Just for Fun", where you do an activity together, and a "God, Mom, and Me" time where you read Scripture together and study what it means. Chapters titles include "The Wind Beneath Her Wings or the Gum Beneath Her Shoes? ~ Bonding with Your Daughter for a Lifetime", "Lip Gloss, Hair Gel, and Toe Rings ~ Having Fun with Outer Beauty", and "Homemaking 911 ~ Helping Your Daughter Create a Home of Beauty, Love, and Laughter". I love this book!

For modesty issues, Dannah Gresh's "Secret Keeper Girl ~ 8 Great Dates for You and Your Daughter" is wonderful! This packet includes a book for Mom, a Secret Keeper diary for the Daughter, and a CD that has insights from Rebecca St. James. The "dates" include a pampering tea party, a shopping mall challenge and a dress~up date that includes dad. Awesome book!

For my son, I've read Vicki Courtney's companion book, "Your Boy". It goes along the same lines as her book for girls, yet gives the mom insight on how girls' modesty affects boys. Very eye-opening and perceptive!

Becky Freeman also wrote a companion book "Mom's Everything Book for Sons". I want to purchase that book very much!

Lastly, Dr. Dobson's books, "Raising Boys" and "Raising Girls" is on my to~buy list.

In a Pickle!

2010-07-19T08:30:00.002-05:00

Yay, SUCCESS! My first attempt at canning pickles went well! I made 4 quarts of kosher dill pickles, and 6 pints of bread & butter pickles.

First of all, can I tell you that it was a LOT of WORK! I didn't realize the time it would take, nor the amount of pots, pans, bowls and burners I would use! I didn't have a bowl big enough to mix the ingredients for the bread & butter pickles, so I scoured my sink and used it instead. One side of the sink was filled with slices of cucumbers & onions, garlic, ice, and salt to set for 3 hours. In the meantime, I filled the canner with water and got that heating as well as another saucepan for the brine for the bread & butter pickles. The canner was so large that it took up 2/3 of the space on my stove! Still another pan was to simmer the lids & rims and another to boil water to cover the jars. I also ran the jars on the rinse cycle of the dishwasher to sterilize them. Needless to say, it was getting quite warm in the kitchen! Oh, did I fail to mention that the heat index for the day was 109? Humidity city!

I didn't have enough dill seed for the kosher dills, so I ended up having to spend 3 dollars (yes, you read it right!) for a package of fresh dill. Note for future reference ~ grow the dill myself! I had to juggle pans to make my brine for the kosher dills, and use the other sink to rinse, chop & slice the cucumbers into spears.

I packed the quart jars with cucumber spears, a clove of garlic, red pepper flakes, and the "best dill you can ever buy"! I processed the kosher dills successfully while I was waiting for the cucumbers & onions to drain. I was gratified to hear the familiar "pop" of the jar lids, and put the now-ready cucumber & onion slices into the sweet, hot brine. Once they boiled, I filled the pint jars and processed them. Six "pops" later, I cleaned up the mess and stood back to admire my labor of love. Glistening jars of verdant green koshers and a satisfying shade of yellow-green bread & butters graced my kitchen counter.

Although it was work, it was fun! I enjoyed the remembered scents of my mom's canning era now wafting around my kitchen. I still have to wait a week until I can taste-test my efforts, so I'll share my judgement then.

This little foray into the canning world was great for me. In fact, I hope to have a garden of my own next summer. I want to grow my own onions, lettuce, carrots, red peppers, tomatoes, green beans, peas, and cucumbers to can. I also want to grow herbs like chives, Italian flat-leaf parsley, basil, and dill to season my foods. I'd also like to grow lavender, sweet peas, and pansies to garnish and decorate with. How fun this is!

Past Circumstances

2010-07-16T11:06:00.004-05:00

Sisters, do you ever struggle with letting go of past circumstances of your life? Does it seem that just as you think you've taken them to the foot of the cross for the last time, those memories come tiptoeing back into the recesses of your mind?

I've struggled this week. A moment in time many years ago has taken hold in my mind, causing me to rail, to wonder and to contemplate my life as I now know it. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I did the right thing and God not only protected me, but has blessed me beyond measure. However, the "what if's" have left me speculating.

As I was sharing my burden with my dear friend, she reminded me about Paul's challenge in his epistle of Philippians, chapter 4, verse 8.

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right,

whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable

~ if anything is excellent or praiseworthy ~

think about such things."

Her gentle, godly advice was the balm that my wounded soul needed. How I praise the Lord for godly friends that not only encourage me spiritually, but challenge me and desire to soothe and minister healing to my heart!

"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of a friend."

Proverbs 27:17

Oh, by the way, I've misplaced my study guide for Psalm 23. Once I find it, I'll resume!

Gardening

2010-07-15T19:21:00.006-05:00

When I was growing up, we always had a family garden. Some of my favorite childhood memories consist of my mom canning green beans, pickles and tomatoes each summer. Each summer meal was rounded out with fresh peppers, buttery lettuces, baby red potatoes, green onions, cucumbers and tomatoes gracing our dinner table each evening. To this day, my favorite "garden meal" has to be green beans and baby new potatoes cooked in the Crockpot with ham, onions, and seasonings!

Crimson and verdant jars filled with tomatoes, pickles and green beans lined our cabinets with the bounty of the season. My middle brother used to sneak in those cabinets while everyone else slept to grab a jar of tomatoes and a salt shaker for a late night snack. To this day, he still gardens and cans ~ lovingly filling sparkling mason jars with the treasures from his raised and meticulously maintained vegetable garden. To savor his beautifully straight green beans, perfectly seasoned with onion, garlic, salt, pepper, as well bacon is a true delight!

So, here goes ~ I'm trying my hand at pickles this weekend! One of my piano students has a garden and has shared green beans, zucchini and tomatoes with us. She called the other day and asked if I'd like some cucumbers. "Sure!" I responded with enthusiasm. She and her hubs brought me 2 baskets FULL!

Once I had caught my breath, I decided to make pickles. She kindly offered me to borrow her canner and brought me a bunch of mason jars and lids and rims. I'm excited to make brine and cut cucumbers into little rounds for bread & butter pickles and long spears for dills and my personal fave ~ KOSHER DILLS! I'll post next week to let you know how it went!

Thanks, my dear friend Deb, for encouraging me to post about this!

A New Week

2010-07-12T13:13:00.002-05:00

What is it about the idea of a new week that gives me the sense of a new beginning? As per usual, life got in the way and I didn't blog like I wanted to last week. I had every intention to get to the computer, but obviously, it never happened!

We had someone come look at our house over the weekend, but haven't heard any feedback yet. I'm getting a little discouraged because we're still HERE when we want to be THERE! Everything seems to be in limbo, and I don't do well in those conditions!

I continue to remind myself that my Shepherd is "making me lie down in green pastures" of rest, but I must confess, sisters, I'm antsy! The Lord knows and understands our desire to serve Him and will put us exactly where we need to be at exactly the right time, but I have to be transparent enough to share that I'm struggling.

Bits and pieces of verses come to mind:
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee"
"Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for him"
"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength"

God knows my heart ~ every thought and intent ~ and knows what's best. He's in control and "commands my destiny"! I just thought of an old song from the late '70s ~ "I believe. I believe. I believe, so why should I worry or fret? He holds the future in the palm of His hand, and He's never failed me yet. I know He's reigning and is still in control, so why should I worry or fret? I know Who holds the future, and I know Who holds my hand. I know just as sure as I'm *singing* this song, I'm a part of His almighty plan. I believe, I believe, I believe, so why should I worry or fret?"

Time to take this to heart and put it in my mind! BTW, sisters, this is how the Lord speaks to me ~ though His Word and through music!

Thanks, Abba!

Return

2010-07-07T14:35:00.005-05:00

Well, sisters, as you can see, I have returned to the world of blogging. I know I'm a sporadic blogger at best, but there are just some days I simply don't feel like taking the time to blog. I'm impressed with those who do, and I'm thankful for the benefits I receive from their diligence.

The kiddos and I visited with my mother last week, and we enjoyed going to the pool, lounging around on her new deck, seeing Toy Story 3 (in 3~D), and eating cashew chicken! (This cashew chicken isn't what some of you may be acquainted with. This is SPRINGFIELD~style cashew chicken, first invented in Springfield, MO in 1963. This unofficial "dish of the city" is the most popular fast~food meal in Springfield! Imagine deep~fried, crispy chunks of chicken on a bed of fried rice, doused in a rich brown gravy, sprinkled with cashews and green onion. Throw in some crab Rangoons, and you're in heaven! Once you move away, you CRAVE it with all your being!)

I was able to spend a couple of evenings with Dana, my best friend from college. She and I have the type of friendship that we can pick up right where we left off and it's as if nothing has changed. We had a grand time shopping, eating out, watching chick flicks and solving all the world's problems! She blessed me with her time, fellowship, and generosity. She's the sister of my heart!

I share this idea of "return" with you all because I'm not only returning to blog land, but to the "homeland" of my roots. The hubs and I are moving back to the Ozarks, my childhood home. We're incredibly excited to begin this new venture the Lord has for us. We've put our house up for sale, the hubs is looking for a new job in the new area, and we are excited to become members of an amazing church there.

I realize that the idea of "returning" is sometimes associated with some kind of failure ~ but in the grand scheme of things, I believe it to be a new beginning. We are returning to the ministry, and we are so excited! This isn't for a paid position, either. It's simply the opportunity to open ourselves to be used for the Lord in whatever capacity He's chosen for us at this time.

Speaking of new beginnings, I've also returned to another dear friend of mine ~ Deb ~ a.k.a. "The Queen Mommy". She and I are collaborating to write a series of books ~ a dream of mine that's been on the back burner for years. Although we lost touch and hadn't corresponded in almost 10 years, once we reconnected, we totally connected! We are so much alike, it's scary! We even chose the same name for one of our daughters ~ spelling and all!

Return. A return to blog, a return to my roots, a return to ministry, a return to friendships and return to a long-awaited dream. A simple, yet powerful word. Simple in meaning, but powerful in the grand scheme of things.

"Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return and come with singing unto Zion

and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads.

They shall obtain gladness and joy. And sorrow and mourning shall flee away."

"Return to the Lord your God."

Aren't you glad we can return? I know I am!

Simply Ham and Scalloped Potatoes

2010-07-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

I love making this in the crockpot, but you can make it to bake in the oven, too!

Ingredients:
2 T. butter, melted
1/2-3/4 c. minced onion
4-6 potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
1 ham steak, cut into bite-size pieces
1 can cream of celery soup
1 small can evaporated milk
2 c. shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:
Saute onion in butter until golden and transluscent. Spray 9x11 dish or crockpot with cooking spray. Mix soup and milk together. Layer baking dish of choice with potatoes, onions, ham and cheese. Finish with cheese layer ~ pour soup mixture over all. If baking in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes. Uncover and continue to bake 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. If using the Crockpot, turn to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until potatoes are soft.

I serve this with green beans or mixed veggies. A tossed salad would be good, too. Enjoy!

My Favorite "Wife" Books

2010-07-01T08:30:00.001-05:00

This has been a challenge for me because I have so many! "The Power of a Praying Wife" by Stormie Omartian opened my eyes to the importance of praying for every aspect of my husband's life, from his health and safety to his thought life and leadership. A very powerful read!

Elizabeth George's "A Wife After God's Own Heart" is companion to "A Husband After God's Own Heart" written by her husband, Jim. Each chapter collates with the other spouses, and gives you opportunity to share your thoughts about different topics, such as responsibilities and finances. A great read!

Other great books include "Loving Your Husband" by Cynthia Heald, and "The Excellent Wife" by Martha Peace.

A Decade of Wonder

2010-06-21T11:29:00.008-05:00

My oldest turned 10 yesterday. TEN! Where has the time gone? Just yesterday, she was a tiny baby, her every need dependent on me. Now she is on the brink of young womanhood, becoming increasingly INdependent and making decisions of her own!

I realized this on Saturday. That's when I took her shopping for her birthday gift! My mom sent her some $ to spend, and boy, was she ever particular on how she was going to spend it! I believe I spent 30 minutes in Claire's, standing in one spot while she looked at the earrings and BFF jewelry. "Oh, honey, how cute is this?" I'd say, pointing to an adorable pair of delicate flower earrings. "Eww, Mom! I like these better!" she'd retort, holding up a pair of earrings that consisted of one box of french fries and another of a soft drink in a cup, complete with straw. Not my idea of fashion, I tell you! Of course, as you'd probably surmise, she didn't buy anything.

We then drove to Toys~R~Us specifically for Littlest Pet Shop merchandise. (Keep in mind, she no longer plays with them. She collects them! Playing with them is, like, so uncool!) Standing in one spot for about 45 minutes, we looked at every pet they had to offer, but she then wanted to look at scooters. Scooters (thankfully!) were well past her budget, so we went to the arts and crafts department. Nothing grabbed her interest there, so back we went to the LPS aisle.

"Sweetie, you're going to have to choose something," I informed her, no longer smiling and my patience worn thin. "Okay, Mom, okay. Let me just look at this one thing." Ten minutes later, she finally decided on a Fur Real Tea Cup Kitten that sits in a little purse. It purrs and bats its little paws. It's completely adorable ~ and so is my precious daughter.

Cool and hip one minute, a little girl the next. I must say ~ I'm completely smitten and in love with her! I'm excited to get to know this amazing person and build a relationship with my blossoming young lady!

However, I feel the burden of responsibility to teach and train her to become a woman after God's heart. How I pray that she will look to her Father instead of succumbing to listen to the father of lies; That she will find her self-worth and value in Jesus instead of the world; That she will stand firm in the faith instead of bowing to peer pressure. I can only pray that as a mom, I'll direct her focus upward instead of outward. The only way I can do this is through prayer, being an example, and just "being there" for her!

I'll return to my posting of Psalm 23 tomorrow ~ God's Promise of Guidance.

Gooey Caramel Rolls

2010-06-09T08:30:00.001-05:00

Okay, these rolls are incredibly rich and oh, so ooey-gooey delicious! Serve with an icy-cold fruit salad, and you'd think you were in heaven!

Ingredients:

16 Rhodes frozen dinner rolls
1 c. lightly packed brown sugar
1/2 package Jello cook-and-serve butterscotch pudding
1/2 stick melted butter
1/4 c. grandulated sugar
1 T. cinnamon
1/2 c. chopped pecans

Directions:

Mix sugar and cinnamon. Grease bundt pan well with cooking spray. Place frozen rolls in pan. Sprinkle brown sugar and dry pudding mix over rolls. Pour melted butter over top, then sprinkle with cinnamon/sugar mixture and nuts. Cover TIGHTLY with foil. Let set out overnight. The next morning, bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes. Flip upside down on top of foil and serve.

Side Note: The sugar and butter turn into this sticky rich bit of caramel goodness that is awe-inspiring, I tell ya!

Here's the fruit salad ~

Fruit Salad

~ This is so colorful and pretty ~

Mix together:

1 small can pineapple tidbits, drained
1 small can mandarin oranges, drained
black seedless grapes
sliced strawberries
1 Granny Smith apple, chopped
1 bananna, sliced

For extra decadence, drizzle a teeny bit of Eagle-Brand sweetened condensed milk over the top.
If you want to be "good", a dollop of vanilla yogurt is tasty, too!

Vegetable Beef Soup

2010-06-02T08:30:00.000-05:00

My Daddy always made this soup. As a kid, I hated it, but as I grew older, I couldn't wait for cooler weather to come so Dad would make his signature dish!

Ingredients:

1 lb. beef stew meat
1 T. olive oil
kosher salt and cracked black pepper
2-3 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 T. melted butter
1 bag frozen mixed vegetables
1 4-cup box beef stock
1 small bottle of V-8 juice
1 large can diced tomatoes
1 can tomato sauce
1 small head cabbage, chopped
1 c. dry macaroni (for fun, I sometimes use alphabet/star pasta)

Directions:
Heat olive oil in stock pot. Season stew meat and place in stock pot to brown. Remove browned meat and add in 1/2 c. of beef stock to deglaze the pot, stirring to remove browned bits. Add meat, remaining stock, potatoes, frozen veggies, tomatoes, and tomato sauce.

In a saucepan, cook onion and celery in butter until translucent. Add to soup mixture along with cabbage. Add in about 1/2 the bottle of V-8 juice. Cook on low 3-4 hours.

During last hour, add in macaroni. Stir every 15 minutes so the pasta won't stick to the bottom. I usually serve this with fresh baked bread. (Um, Rhodes frozen bread dough!) This hearty soup/stew is a meal within itself!

God's Promise of Healing

2010-06-01T12:40:00.006-05:00

Psalm 23: 3 "He restoreth my soul."

We all need healing and restoration~ not just physical, but spiritual and emotional healing as well. Physical ailments, the loss of a loved one, the collapse of a family, rejection, disappointment and betrayals are all kinds of calamities that happen during our lives. How can we go on? Where can we receive the healing we need?

Along with God's promises of care and provision (Psalm 23:1) and rest and peace (Psalm 23:2), God also promises us healing restoration (Psalm 23:3). Our loving Shepherd not only sees to our physical needs, but to our spiritual needs as well ~ "He restoreth my soul."

Another name of God that fits wonderfully as we talk about His healing is Jehovah~Rophe, which means "the Lord heals". Let's look at the history behind the name....

After the children of Israel had escaped Pharaoh at the Red Sea and began their journey to the Promised Land, they found that the water was scarce. Once they came to Mara, they found water, but it was bitter and poisonous. As the people began to complain and grumble, Moses cried out to God to help them. The Lord showed Moses a tree and told him to cast it into the bitter water. Instantly, it became sweet and drinkable. Jehovah~Jireh had provided for them yet again and announced, "I am the Lord who heals you" Jehovah~Rophe!

Mrs. George writes, "In the OT, 'to heal' is often used of a physician and means to restore or to cure. And just who does Jehovah~Rophe, the Great Physician, heal? He heals and restores those of His who are cast down."

What exactly does the term "cast down" mean? In shepherding terms, it's a sheep that's turned over on its back and can't get up by itself. This usually happens when the sheep lies comfortably in a little hollow in the ground. When it turns to its side to stretch out, the center of gravity shifts, and the poor animal is suddenly on its back! No matter how hard it struggles, it can't turn itself upright because its feet are sticking straight up in the air.

Interestingly, it's usually the largest and strongest sheep that get cast down. When the weather is comfortably cool, the sheep can stay like this for a day or two. But, if it's hot out, the sheep is considered to be in critical condition within a few hours! It's vitally important that the shepherd arrives soon, or the sheep will die.

This is the course of restoration that the shepherd takes:
"Stage 1 ~ Finding the cast-down sheep. Since the shepherd knows each member of his flock intimately, he will immediately notice one is missing. This begins his search for the sheep, and he surveys the land for a sheep that's in an unnatural position.
Stage 2 ~ Restoring the cast-down sheep. This process can take a while. If the sheep is found quickly, then the shepherd only needs to roll it to its feet and it will be fine. However, if the sheep has been cast down for a long while, it takes a great deal of patience, time and care. First, it's rolled over, then its legs are rubbed and massaged to revive circulation. Next, the shepherd props the sheep's head on his knee to stroke and caress it. Finally, he is able to physically lift the sheep to its feet and support it as it leans against him to walk. It can take up to an hour for the sheep to walk properly again, and it can fall. The caring shepherd will pick the sheep up again, and again, and again.
Stage 3 ~ Following the cast-down sheep. The sheep isn't restored completely until it eats its first bites of grass. The shepherd will follow and watch it closely until it is fully restored."

Can't you see the image of the Good Shepherd in the above stages? No matter our circumstances, He is there to retrieve, revive, and restore us!

My Favorite Devotionals

2010-06-01T08:30:00.002-05:00

If you guessed Elizabeth George, you won the prize! Mrs. George is a truly talented teacher and author. I love how she makes each book personal and shares her godly wisdom so freely!

My all~time fave is her popular "A Woman After God's Own Heart". That's the book that God used to get me back on track spritually. Although I had been helping my husband in the ministry, I had come to a point where I was spiritually numb.

I know that Satan attacks Christians mercilessly, but I was in for a shock when we entered the ministry. Almost instantaneously, everything ~ our marriage, character, motives ~ was being attacked with such feriocity that I was totally unprepared! I felt as if I spent most of my time defending myself and the hubs instead of edifying others! I became discouraged, and then resentful. Allowing my circumstances control my life, I gave up and quit spending time in the Word and in prayer.

I remember being at a point when I asked God if He really even was there. I actually doubted ~ me, who had been in church since I was 5 days old ~ saved at the age of 12 ~ serving in some capacity since I was a teenager ~ I actually doubted the existence of God!

I remember the question Mrs. George asked about what kind of heart did we have? Was it cold, warm, or hot? The correct response, of course, was that we should cultivate a hot heart for the Lord ~ a heart of passion and purpose. My heart wasn't even cold, sisters. It was ice.

As I forced myself to continue the study, I would pray, "God, if You're really there, restore to me the joy of my salvation." It didn't happen right then, but after 3 days. It sounds ridiculously poetic, but I felt as if my icy heart had melted, and the water became my tears. God is, indeed, plenteous in mercy!

That, I believe, is why I have such an admiration for Mrs. George. Any of her books are great reads and will challenge and inspire you to reach for a close, intimate relationship with the Saviour.

Why Memorial Day Is Extra-Special

2010-05-31T11:59:00.005-05:00

For the past four years, Memorial Day has become even more significant to me. You see, this past Friday, May 28th, marked the fourth anniversary of my dad's death. The passing of each year is sort of like a shock ~ I can't believe that he's really been gone that long ~ I still catch myself thinking "Wait 'til I tell Dad about..." then I remember he's not there.

I'm so thankful that my dad knew Christ as his Savior and has a home in Heaven! His death was a powerful testimony of redemption and God's mercy. You see, although my dad was a believer, he didn't always live like one. He allowed the circumstances of his past and present rule his life.

Dad said he loved the Lord ~ but he just didn't make a relationship with Him a priority in his life. He lived for himself and frequently said, "It's my life, and I'll do what I want." He seemed to forget that his life wasn't his own, that he had "...been bought with a price."

There were times I wondered if my dad was really saved until one day we talked. That day in the hospital, my dad said, "As a young man, I used to wonder how I'd face death when I was old. Would I be afraid? How would I feel? Now that I'm here, I can tell you that I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I've committed unto Him against that day." I saw the faith gleaming in his eyes along with his tears. That's when I knew that my dad was eternally secure. My daughter's heart was at peace.

During the next couple years, Dad's health had become increasingly precarious, and I always dreaded "the call". That call happened on Sunday morning, May 28, 2006. We were just about ready to walk out the door for church when the phone rang. My mom said, "Shelly, Daddy's aneurysm has ruptured. The ambulance is here and we're on our way to the hospital." Since we live four hours away, all I could do was wait. At 11:10 that morning, my daddy went home to be with the Lord.

How was God merciful? The aneurysm didn't "pop" like they usually do. When that happens, death is excruciating and can happen within minutes. God allowed it to have a pin-sized hole that leaked slowly. Because of this, Dad was able to live for an extra hour and a half almost pain-free.

During that time, he and my mom reminisced about when they met, got married and celebrated the birth of each child and grandchild. He told her he'd see her on the other side, and turned away. You see, God granted him the opportunity to make amends with my mother. Just the evening before, he read her the passage from Isaiah 43:18-19. It says, "Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?"

Then, in my dad's final moments on this earth, he sat straight up and reached his hands to his Redeemer. It was then that his soul was safely home. The Bible says "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord", so I believe will all my heart that the Good Shepherd Himself picked up His wayward lamb and carried him Home!

Like the song says it's "not because of what I've done, but because of Who You are." Jesus had already done all the work on the cross, and because my dad had accepted the gift of salvation, he belonged to Him and went to Heaven!

During the morning services at my church yesterday, our pastor had those who had loved ones that had served in the military and had passed away stand in their honor. I was privileged to stand for my dad, who served stateside during Vietnam. My dad was proud of his country and loved it immensely. Two of his brothers ~ my Uncle Richard, who served in WW2, and Uncle Lloyd, who had been killed in Korea ~ served in the military, so my dad understood what it meant to sacrifice for his country. Memorial Day was always special to him.

Now that I think of it, in a way it seems fitting that Daddy passed away on Memorial Day weekend. My memories of him will always be filled with laughter, love and what redemption really means.

God's Promise of Peace

2010-05-31T08:30:00.005-05:00

Psalm 23:2b "He leadeth me beside the still waters."

Have you noticed that the most tranquil, peaceful places usually have the sound of water somehow?

When we lived in upstate NY, the Black River was less than a block from our house. The rushing water, plus the waterfall a little further downstream serenaded us each day. We absolutely loved it! I have a little water fountain next to my bed that I enjoy turning on and listening to when I feel stressed. That, along with my "happy candle" (Yankee's McIntosh Apple) makes mama a happy girl!

When you stop and think about it, something inside us needs that sound of water for serenity. Homeowners spend literally thousands of dollars to add water elements to their backyard landscapes such as ponds and waterfalls! Others have table top water fountains like mine, or enjoy music CDs that have water sounds, such as rain, an ocean, or a stream to help them relax so they can sleep.

Water is a place of rest. Once there, we can become "calm, inspired, energized and refocused on God's larger plans for us." This is where our Shepherd chooses to lead us ~ beside still waters.

What is it that makes us seek/crave peace? According to Mrs. George, busyness, responsibility, tension and noise are the four top reasons women crave peace. I mentioned last week that my mother/father-in-law kept the kiddos for a couple of days. Sisters, I needed that! As you know, I love my children with all my heart, but that previous week had been tough! Five continuous days of thunderstorms, rain, humidity and finalizing homeschool for the year had made us all ~ shall we say ~ a little testy!?

Well, as you may assume, that combination was getting to be a bit much! Frazzled but relieved all work was done by Friday, I called my wonderful mother-in-law and told her I needed a mental health day ~ could she help me out? She laughed with understanding ~ and was willing to let the grand kids come for a couple days' visit.

As I mentioned last week, I listened to the silence and enjoyed uninterrupted conversations with the hubs. I was able to mediate on Scripture, too, and enjoyed time alone with the Lord. Not only did my physical body need the peace, but my spiritual self craved it as well.

Mrs. George writes, "We can... testify that our souls become dry on a steady diet of stress. We quickly become depleted and weary. We stagger, we stumble, we crumble, and we make errors in judgment...all because we need a time beside the still waters." She continues,

"He ~ the Shepherd, knows all about our need for peace and provides it.
Leads ~ to where peace is plentiful and makes sure we attain it.
Still waters ~ restful waters of comfort...a peaceful place beside a quiet, tranquil stream."

In the first part of Psalm 23:1, we met Jehovah~Rohi ~ the Shepherd Who leads, feeds and lovingly warns us. "The Lord is my shepherd..." In continuation, we met Jehovah~Jireh, the providing Shepherd. "...I shall not want." Now, in verse 2, we meet Jehovah~Shalom, the God of Peace ~ "the God who brings peace."

Jehovah~Shalom is first mentioned in the book of Judges with the story of Gideon. At that time, God's chosen people, the Israelites, were stuck in a vicious cycle. To understand the significance of this, we need to back up a bit.

Rewind to the book of Joshua. After 40 years of wandering through the desert, God kept His word to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Moses and brought the children of Israel into the Promised Land. Once the land was divided by tribe, Joshua called all the people together. He told them that God wanted only three things from them: to drive their enemies (the Amorites, Moabites, Perizzites, Canaanits, Hittites, Girgashites, Hivites and Jebusites) from their land, and to "Fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth; and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord." This is also where Joshua said, "...Choose you this day whom ye will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

However, Judges 1:28 says, "...when Israel was strong, that they put the Canaanites to tribute, and did not utterly drive them out." Verses 21-27 and 29-33 repeat the same phrase "Neither did (Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephriam, Zebulun, Asher, Naphtali) drive out the Jebusites/Canaanites... but the Jebusites/Canaanites dwelt... among them." By chapter 2:11-13, "...The children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and served Baalim: and they forsook the Lord, and served Baal and Ashtaroth."

Thus, the children of Israel began the vicious cycle of:
a. sin
b. suffering (serving a foreign king)
c. crying out to God
d. deliverance
e. rest/peace ~ only to begin the cycle all over again.

This leads us to Gideon, the sixth judge God appointed to lead and deliver His people. We meet Gideon in Judges chapter 6. He is hiding in his winepress, secretly threshing wheat. At this time, the Midianites had taken control over Israel and were destroying crops (vs. 4-6). Gideon had managed to secret some grain and was threshing it so he could feed his family. Suddenly, and the Angel of the Lord (again, the pre~incarnate Christ!) appeared to Gideon. He promised deliverance to God's people and told Gideon he was going to lead them (vs. 12-16).

Gideon was afraid. He resisted. He was a nobody ~ his family was poor, and he was "the least in my father's house." He asked for a sign (the fleece) to "strengthen the weakness of his own faith and to give evidence that would convince the people that he was really God's instrument." (Scofield Study Bible).

However, the Angel ~ the Shepherd, comforted him in verse 23. "Peace be unto thee; fear not: thou shalt not die." Then Gideon worshiped. He built an altar there and named it Jehovah~Shalom, meaning "The Altar of Peace with Jehovah" (vs. 24).

Here was Gideon, fearful and cowering in a hole, when the Angel of the Lord appeared with:

a. A proclamation ~ "You will save Israel from the Midianites."
b. A promise ~ "I will be with you and you will defeat them."
c. Peace ~ "Peace be with you; do not fear."
d. Power ~ "The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!"

Now he is Gideon the warrior, the fearless leader of God's people! As you may know, Gideon soundly defeated the Midianite army with 300 men bearing only trumpets, torches and pitchers! At Gideon's signal, the 300 men blew their trumpets, broke the pitchers, and held up their torches. Upon waking to the blaring trumpets and lights blazing and hearing the cry "The sword of the Lord, and of Gideon!" the Lord caused the Midianites to "set their sword against his fellow, even throughout all the host."

Upon Gideon's victory, Israel wanted to make him king and rule over them. However, Gideon had seen the true King face to face (Judges 6: 22) and refused to rule over them, saying, "I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the Lord shall rule over you" (Judges 8:23). Israel had 40 years of peace under Gideon's humble leadership.

We've met Gideon the judge and Gideon the warrior. Now, let's meet the One Gideon was privileged to meet. Jehovah~Shalom, the Prince of Peace.

Mrs. George writes, "Before we finish verse two and our visit to the still waters, we need to behold the Prince of Peace. To enjoy peace and harmony with God means to enjoy the harmony of a relationship with God. And it is Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), who makes a relationship with God possible. Peace with God includes...
a. Harmony ~ to be in harmony with God due to the payment of a debt.
b. A peace offering ~ restored fellowship between God and man, accomplished only by shed blood (Leviticus 3)."

Jesus' death on the cross did just that, sisters. He paid the debt He did not owe, and He shed His precious blood as a peace offering.

One of my favorite songs is called "In Christ Alone". If you have the time, please listen to the first song on my playlist. It sums up this last point beautifully!

"In Christ alone, my hope is found. He is my Light, my Strength, my Song.
This Cornerstone, this solid ground, firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace when fears are stilled, when strivings cease.
My Comforter, my All in All, here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone, Who took on flesh, fullness of God in helpless Babe.
This gift of love and righteousness, scorned by the ones He came to save.
'Til on that cross as Jesus died, the wrath of God was satisfied.
For every sin on Him was laid, here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay, Light of the World by darkness slain.
Then bursting forth in glorious day, up from the grave he rose again!
And as He stands in victory, sin's curse has lost its grip on me!
For I am His, and He is mine, bought with the precious blood of Christ!

No guilt in life, no fear in death, this is the power of Christ in me.
From life's first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny!
No power of hell, no scheme of man can ever pluck me from His hand.
'Til He returns or calls me home, here in the power of Christ I'll stand."

Doesn't that just make you want to shout? Praise be to Jesus ~ Suffering Savior, Precious Redeemer ~ King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

This & That...

2010-05-26T12:46:00.004-05:00

I know I haven't posted until now, but I've been enjoying the past two days of silence! My kiddos have spent these last 2 days with their Nana and Papa, and I've been listening to the quiet! The hubs and I have spent the last 2 evenings enjoying uninterrupted conversation and just being together. It reminded me that we need to continue to make time for one another, even when the kids are here.

I've missed my kiddos, though ~ even their occasional fussing and endless questions!

Tomorrow, we'll continue our study on Psalm 23.

Delectable Pink Lemonade Pie

2010-05-26T08:30:00.002-05:00

My mom made this several times every summer! It's extremely rich, so cut those slices on the small side!

Ingredients:
1 large graham cracker pie crust
1 can frozen pink lemonade
1 can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
1 small container of Cool Whip, thawed

Directions:
Set out the pink lemonade so that it is slushy in consistency. Combine Eagle Brand and Cool Whip in a mixing bowl, fold in lemonade. Pour into graham cracker pie crust. Place in freezer for 30-45 minutes. Serve cold.
This dessert is wonderful on a hot summer evening!

God's Promise of Rest

2010-05-21T12:41:00.009-05:00

Psalm 23:2a "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures."

Lying in a soft, cozy bed. Relaxing in your favorite chair with a book and cup of tea. Reclining in an outside chaise with a glass of iced tea. All picture rest, relaxation and comfort.

Rest. Our bodies need it, and our souls crave it. This verse tells us that God not only promises His sheep rest, but that "He makes us lie down." What exactly does God have in mind?

1. The Place of Rest:
Notice the place our loving Shepherd guides us to. A place of green pastures. What exactly is in these pastures?
a. Food: It's abundant and available. "Green pastures" is a picture of abundance and luxury. Mrs. George writes, "A good shepherd carefully picks out a place of pastureland that's filled to overflowing with fresh, new, tender grass. His heart is set on finding a place containing plenty of delicate green grass that will provide nourishment, health, and fresh energy for His sheep."
b. Rest: "This scene is one of satisfaction and rest, calm and contentment, sheer enjoyment." Imagine the coolness of the grass on a hot day in that arid region! After their long trek, the weary sheep could settle down and be content and at rest ~ all lovingly provided by their Shepherd!

In the section "Reflecting of God's Promises", Mrs. George reminds us that by having a daily quiet time, we can "partake of green pastures". She writes, "We have all of the Shepherd and all of His Word available to us... if we will simply lie down in His green pastures and partake! All we need to do is stop everything and enjoy a time of resting and lingering with the Lord as we feed on His Word."

When we enter into the serenity of God's green pasture, we "experience the same sense of rejuvenation, the same revival of spirit, the same deep satisfaction that literal sheep enjoy when resting in the presence of a faithful shepherd.

Our time with the Shepherd is necessary, it should be regularly, and we should want to increase our time with Him. Mrs. George uses an analogy that I like when describing how we feel about our time in God's Word. First is the cod~liver oil stage. This is when you take it like medicine to cure whatever may ail you. The second is the shredded wheat stage. You find it to be nourishing but dry. The last stage is the peaches and cream stage. You can't get enough, because you're consumed with passion and pleasure!

2. The Plan for Rest:
The kind of rest God has planned for us in this verse isn't just a quick break to catch our breath. No, our loving Shepherd wants us to stretch out completely and be fully reclined to enjoy total relaxation! It may surprise you to read that some sheep will not lie down. Why, you may ask?
a. Fear: Mrs. George writes of a flock of sheep that refused to lie down because of a large dog that was on the other side of the stream. Even though the shepherd frightened the dog away, the sheep were still fearful. Not until he walked ahead of them to the brook did they relax and settle down.

We are told several times in God's Word not to fear. Read Isaiah 41:10, Joshua 1:9, Deuteronomy 31:6 and Exodus 33:14 and take comfort!

b. Hunger: A sheep will not lie down and receive rest if it is hungry. It is frantic as it wanders around searching for food. "Thus, the discontented sheep adds lack of rest to its problem of lack of food, loses its vigor and vitality, and fails to thrive." However, our Jehovah~Jireh makes sure our food is always available. We just have to decide to feed upon it!

"So many Christians attempt to satisfy their hunger... from an occasional few minutes' "feeding" from the pulpit, from a radio broadcast, or from a television message, while others seek to satisfy their needs from the odd old devotional book, or the occasional Christian programme. This is not enough... to sustain the needy soul on a daily basis.... God provides for us on a daily basis, but we must plan to partake of His provision on a daily basis."

c. Fighting: "A sheep that's involved in or even witnessing fighting also cannot lie down and receive the rest it needs. Battles between members of a flock rob all the sheep of the rest they need because of the tension that exists. Interesting, isn't it?

"Many Christians are weary and worn, not because of intense conflict with the evil one, but because of arguments among themselves. It's frightening to realize the harm done to others when we argue and fight in our homes and in our churches."

3. The Procedure for Rest:
Our Shepherd makes us lie down, even when we may not want to! He does this because He alone knows our future. Only He can know what's around the next bend, the next hill, or on the other side of the green pastures. "Will it be a long, steep climb? Will the path narrow as it leads us around a dangerous mountain? Will the trail take us into the valley of the shadow of death? Are we headed into a desert or a roaring storm?" Only the Shepherd knows.

That's why He makes us lie down! He does this to fortify and energize us so we'll be able to walk through what's ahead. He "makes certain that we won't tire, that we're not at risk because of weariness, that we're invigorated from our pasture~time for any strenuous climb."

Mrs. George writes "As I reflected on God's procedure of making us lie down in His green pastures, I thought of a number of ways that He accomplishes our rest. Illness, surgery, and convalescence afford us time with the Shepherd. So do pregnancy and childbirth. And exhaustion, too, will certainly place us in the grassy pastures of the Lord. Still another category of time in God's pasture involves just plain ol' being passed over, overlooked for service and ministry."

While we wait on the Lord in His green pastures, we have:
Opportunity to learn and trust the Lord.
Growth in patience.
Encouragement and fellowship by/with the Shepherd.
Time to energize for the walk ahead.

"He makes me lie down in green pastures ~ where He creates a resting~place for me to repose in, and there He shall feed me until I am satisfied."

"In shady green pastures, so rich and so sweet,

God leads His dear children along.

Where the water's cool flow bathes the weary one's feet,

God leads His dear children along.

Some through the water, some through the flood.

Some through the fire, but all through the blood.

Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song

In the night season, and all the day long."

God's Promise of Provision

2010-05-20T11:35:00.005-05:00

Psalm 23:1b "I shall not want."

Yesterday we learned about Jehovah~Rohi, our Shepherd Who feeds, leads and warns us. Today's description of our Shepherd goes hand in hand with Jehovah~Rohi. He is Jehovah~Jireh, our Provider.

Mrs. George writes, "Most of the compound names of God spring from a specific historic incident." We first meet Jehovah~Jireh in the 22nd chapter of Genesis. If you went to Sunday school, I'm sure you remember the story of Abraham and Isaac. (Usually told with flannel graph!) It is in this chapter that we see God provide supernaturally for his faithful servant.

1. Abraham's command ~ came out of heaven from God Himself. "Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering." (vs. 1-2)

2. Abraham's response ~ was immediate obedience! "So Abraham rose early in the morning... and took... Isaac his son... and went to the place of which God had told him." (vs. 3) Mrs. George revealed that it was a 60~mile trek.

3. Abraham's son ~ Isaac had a question: As they walked along with the wood, the fire, and the knife to slay the sacrifice, he asked, "...where is the lamb for a burnt offering?" (vs. 7)

4. Abraham's answer ~ revealed his trust in the Lord. "My son, God will provide [Jehovah~Jireh] Himself a lamb for a burnt offering." (vs. 8)

How did Jehovah~Jireh provide? You know the story ~ Abraham bound his only son with rope and laid him on the altar. Just as he was about to plunge the knife into his son's heart, the angel of the Lord (Who, by the way, scholars believe to be the pre~incarnate Jesus Christ Himself) "called unto him out of heaven, and said Abraham...lay not not thine hand upon the lad, neither do any thing unto him...." When Abraham looked up, there was a ram caught in a thicket by his horns, and Abraham "...offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah~Jireh...(The Lord Will Provide)" (vs. 9-14).

I want to think on this for a moment. This story goes so much deeper than God simply providing a substitute sacrifice for Isaac. In fact, it goes even farther than Abraham's faith or Isaac's willingness.

Did you catch that phrase in verse 8? The KJV states, "God will provide Himself a lamb...." Please don't miss the significance of this statement. Most versions translate this as "God Himself will provide a lamb", (a sacrifice for that particular moment in time) but this downplays the deeper meaning of this verse.

Sisters, a thousand years later, God did indeed provide Himself a Lamb ~ through his only begotten Son, Jesus Christ ~ The Lamb of God, Who taketh away the sins of the world! Not only did Abraham and Isaac meet Jehovah~Jireh, we can meet Him, too!

So, how do we know that God will provide? Mrs. George asks. "We have the promise of God (which requires it), but we also have the very nature of the Person of God (which demands it). He is all~knowing. He is all~wise. He is all~powerful. With God, to see is also to provide." I like how she further explains Jehovah~Jireh:

"In His omniscience (His complete knowledge),

God knows/sees our need.

In His power, He can provide, and

In His goodness,

He must provide

for what His knowledge and wisdom reveal

to be the true needs of His people."

Man's basic needs are: food, clothing and shelter. In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus told the multitude not to worry about what to eat or drink or wear because God feeds the birds of the air and clothes the lilies of the fields. He encourages and reminds them that if God cares about feeding a bird or clothing the grasses of the field that will be burnt up tomorrow, how much more will He provide for His people!

Let's not forget how Jehovah~Jireh provided for the children of Israel during the Exodus. They had guidance, food literally from Heaven, shade by day, light by night, and clothes that didn't wear out ~ for 40 years!

Mrs. George closes this chapter with a quote from Dr. Harry Ironside, a former pastor of Moody Memorial Church. He writes of God's promises:

"I shall not want...
rest, for He maketh me to lie down.
refreshment, for He leadeth me beside the still waters.
restoration, for He restoreth my soul.
guidance, for He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness.
confidence, for I will fear no evil.
companionship, for Thou art with me.
comfort, for Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.
provision, for Thou preparest a table.
joy, for my cup runneth over.
anything in this life, for goodness and mercy
shall follow me all the days of my life.
anything in eternity, for I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

Just as God saw to a substitute sacrifice to save the life of the son of his faithful servant, He will not only see our need, but see to it! Let's remember that when we see His provision, we should see to it that He is greatly praised!

"Come let us worship and bow down.

Let us kneel before the Lord our God, our Maker.

Come let us worship and bow down.

Let us kneel before the Lord our God, our Maker.

For He is our God,

and we are the people of his pasture.

And the sheep of His hand,

Just the sheep of His hand."

My Favorite Fiction

2010-05-20T08:30:00.000-05:00

I just finished reading (again!) one of my favorite books of all time! If you want to read a book that will transport you back in time, convict you spiritually, and challenge the way you live your Christian life, you have to read Francine Rivers' book "A Voice in the Wind". It's the first book in her trilogy Mark of the Lion.

Taking place in 70 AD, the story begins with Hadassah, a young Messianic Jew who happens to be visiting Jerusalem with her family when it was overthrown by Rome. Enduring heart-wrenching situations, she becomes a slave to a Roman family.

This wealthy family, the Valerians, "have it all", yet are completely unfullfilled. We learn of the struggles of the parents, Decimus and Phoebe, as well as the willfull decadence of their children, Marcus and Julia. Hadassah becomes instrumental in each of their lives in a very special way.

At the same time, we meet Atretes, a mighty German warrior. During a battle with the Romans, he is taken captive and is sold to become a gladiator.

Francine Rivers weaves the storyline with amazing skill and you're caught up in the story from the first sentence. This has to be THE best book I've EVER read, and I read every day.

The other books in the trilogy are "Echo in the Darkness" (which concludes "A Voice in the Wind") and "As Sure as the Dawn" (which continues the story of Atretes).

Each book is at least 500 pages, but SO worth your time! If you enjoy a good read, The Mark of the Lion trilogy is for you!

God's Promise of Care

2010-05-19T14:02:00.007-05:00

Psalm 23:1a "The LORD is my shepherd."

Mrs. George begins this chapter with, "No words ever written have carried the weight or the comfort that these five do ~ The LORD is my shepherd." Saints young and old have the sweet assurance of God's promise that He will be our Shepherd. Jesus said in John 10:14 that "I am the good shepherd; and I know my sheep, and am known of mine." Every person from every walk and season of life need the loving care of their Shepherd.

Have you ever wondered how the thought of God as a shepherd originated? Mrs. George writes that "in Hebrew, the five English words ~ the Lord is my shepherd ~ come from two words, Jehovah~Rohi.

So what exactly does Jehovah~Rohi do? One major meaning of the word is "to feed". Sisters, we have God's promise to feed us! We need both physical and spiritual food, and can enjoy both from the very hand of our Shepherd! I think I may have shared in an earlier post about a time when we had absolutely no food in our home. Our oldest was only 6 months old, and we didn't have the money to buy her anything, either. Our only option was to buy groceries with our credit card. We prayed as we gave her the last jar of food.

That very evening after church, a couple approached us and said they had something they wanted to give us. To our amazement, they opened their trunk and began to pull out bags of groceries! The trunk was completely full, and all we could do was cry our thanks. When we got home with our bounty and began to unload the groceries, there were 2 bags full of baby food ~ down the actual brand AND flavor that I bought my little one! Oh, sisters, only a loving Shepherd would put us on the hearts of that couple! Tender to God's leading, they blessed us other times by shaking my husband's hand and placing a $100 bill in it. Every time that happened, we were in need of food or paying a bill. How thankful and awed I STILL am to this day how God fed us those difficult months!

In this book, Mrs. George shares several facts about real~life shepherds. She writes, "a good shepherd ~ when there are no pastures, he [himself] gathers the food needed for his flock by using his crook to pull down leaves and berries from the trees. Then he feeds his sheep directly and intimately right out of his own hand!" She concludes this thought with "why should we worry about food and clothing? About finances and money? About security and the needs of life? We have Jehovah~Rohi! We have the Lord as our caring shepherd!"

Not only does Jehovah~Rohi feed us, but He leads us. He is in the leadership role of a prince with his people (2 Samuel 5:2, Isaiah44:28, and Jeremiah 3:15). I think of my husband's role as leader in our home. Things can be falling apart, but when he says that everything will be all right, I'm comforted. I may not know or be involved in all the details it will take, but I'm comforted because my husband says it will be okay. That's the same with Jehovah~Rohi. He's our leader, so we don't need the details. We only need to follow.

So, what kind of follower/sheep am I? Mrs. George writes of 3 types of sheep.

The first is restless and discontent sheep. These sheep jump into other fields, climb into bushes and thorns; they sometimes fall and break their legs. "These nervous and dissatisfied sheep cause the Good Shepherd endless trouble."

The second is worldling sheep. Worldling sheep are intent on pursing their own pleasures and selfish interests ~ none of which have to do with the Shepherd! They "run from bush to bush, searching for variety and sampling every kind of food." They lift their heads every once in a while to see where the Shepherd is, just so they don't wander too far away. These sheep choose to nibble on what is meaningless and even harmful.

The third is the devoted sheep. As Jesus said in John 10, each sheep has a name. The devoted followers answer joyfully whenever the Shepherd calls. "By prolonged and continued fellowship, the sheep who follow nearby enjoy the Shepherd's presence and become His familiar companions. To those closet to Him, He shares the choicest portions of food which He's gathered."

Lastly, rohi also means to warn. Our Shepherd warns us not to consume, partake of, or be involved in activities that don't exalt God (Proverbs 15:14, Isaiah 44:20, and Ezekiel 34:16).

"By penning these two Hebrew words ~ Jehovah~Rohi, David's imagery lifts our thoughts to the highest and tenderest aspect of God's nature. No other name of God carries with it the intimacy and tender friendship of Jehovah~Rohi. Yes, you and I are cared for and cherished ~ so much that God promises to lead us and feed us. Think of it! To be the friend of God!"

I'll close today's post with the words to a favorite old song of mine, entitled "Gentle Shepherd".

Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us,

For we need You to help us find our way.

Gentle Shepherd, come and feed us,

For we need Your strength from day to day.

There's no other we can turn to.

Who can help us face another day?

Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us,

For we need You to help us find our way.

Awesome Mexican Seven-Layer Dip

2010-05-19T08:30:00.001-05:00

Ingredients:

1 8-oz. block cream cheese, brought to room temperature
1 package McCormick's taco mix
Dean's avacado dip (or prepared guacamole)
Jar of favorite salsa
1 package lettuce shreds
1 package shredded Mexican-style cheese
4 green onions, minced
1 can sliced black olives
Tortilla chips

Directions:

Blend cream cheese and 1/2 package of taco mix together. Spread along the bottom of serving dish. Layer avacodo dip and salsa. Top with lettuce, cheese, green onions and black olives. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. Serve with tortilla chips.

God's Promises for You

2010-05-18T13:15:00.005-05:00

Other than John 3:16, the 23rd Psalm is probably the most known passage in the Bible. I believe it's the standard Scripture used at most funerals because it offers peace at the most difficult time of life.

As we begin this walk with our Shepherd, let me echo Mrs. George's first reflection. Where does life find you today? What season of life are you in?

~ Spring ~

"Are you in the early beginnings of life?

Are you tasting the joy of fresh starts

and taking your first steps as a Christian?"

~ Summer ~

"Or have you progressed along the way with the Lord to the place of wisdom,

of a blossoming knowledge of the One you walk with?"

~ Fall ~

"Or is yours a fast-paced, terrific season

of tremendous fruit-bearing, of harvest,

of reaping profusely from the benefits

that come from a close, sustained walk with God over time?"

~ Winter~

"Or are you experiencing endings

that for the first time seem to have no new beginnings?

Are you being pressed to adjust to a new path

that leads in directions you did not anticipate or choose?

Are you approaching the next bend in the path with some measure of fear?"

Sisters, isn't it comforting to know that whatever season we're in, we're blessed because "we have the Lord ~ and his promises ~ as a shepherd for all seasons!"

As you know, David is the main author of the Psalms. It's interesting to note that in his life, he experienced these seasons:

Refreshing seasons of youth and maturity

A season of rejection ~ He was expelled from his home and throne.

A season of fear ~ He had to flee from Saul's murderous intentions.

A season of discouragement ~ He had been anointed as King, yet was considered a fugitive.

A season of disappointment ~ God wouldn't allow him to build the temple.

A season of heartbreak ~ He suffered the death of his infant son and witnessed strife, division and death among his children.

Mrs. George writes, "What's true in music is also true of David: On any stringed instrument, it's the strings that are strung the tightest that emit the sweetest music and play the sweetest songs. Yes, only someone who had experienced life and its hardships could have written the Twenty-third Psalm."

David was a man of great faith. He is an ancestor of Jesus Christ, and beloved of God. In fact, God describes David as "a man after My own heart, who will do all My will." (Acts 13:22) David is also listed in Hebrews 11's "Hall of Faith".

David was also a man of great failure. We all know that he not only committed adultery with Bathsheba, but also arranged for the murder of her husband, Uriah (2 Samuel 11). He also directly disobeyed God by taking a census of the people (2 Samuel 24).

What is so encouraging to me is that no matter how bad David messed up, God never gave up on him ~ never wrote him off. Why is that? Here are lessons we can learn from God's beloved.

1. David admitted his failures. Once the prophet Nathan confronted David of his sin, David confessed it. He said, "I have sinned against the Lord." Psalm 51 is a beautiful prayer of his confession and desire to be forgiven to restore his relationship with God. After he confessed his sin, the joy of his salvation was restored and his sins were washed whiter than snow!

2. David suffered sin's consequences. Although God forgave David, he had to pay a price for his disobedience. His baby died, his son betrayed him and his family was divided. Although you can remove nails from a board, the nail holes ~ the scars still remain.

3. David went on. After the death of his child, "David arose from the ground, washed and anointed himself, and changed his clothes; and he went into to house of the Lord and worshiped... and he ate" (2 Samuel 12:20). It's interesting to see that David harbored no bitterness towards God, either. He accepted the responsibility for his wrong doings. (Read Psalm 51:3-4) He owned his sin and considered the Lord to be "gracious.. and righteous; yes... [and] merciful" (Psalm 116:5).

David shows us a pattern for our spiritual growth. Our role as a Christian is rise up and go on. God's role is to sustain us along the way... and He promises to do just that!

Sister, let's lift up our praise to God, rise up, and go on our journey with the Lord. Let's "taste and see that the Lord is good" as we see 12 of His precious promises in this brief psalm of encouragement and refreshment.

Busy, busy, busy!

2010-05-17T14:58:00.006-05:00

Isn't it typical to hear the above excuse? I'm so busy! It's been busy around here! I've had a busy day! Not now, I'm busy! Can't you see that I'm busy?

If you're anything like me, you use at least one of the above phrases at least once a day. It's been almost a month since I've posted anything, and yet so much has happened in my life!

One of the best/funnest is that I've reconnected with an amazing, wonderful friend from my college years, and we're collaborating on a special project. Another cool thing was that the Lord gave me a song to write for Mother's Day. Have you ever noticed that there aren't very many Mother's Day songs? Also, there aren't many songs written about being a mother! When our music minister asked me to sing, I kinda drew a blank . I love Steve Green's "Find Us Faithful" and Patch the Pirate's "Cherish the Moment". I first considered the latter, and have my 2 oldest sing with me.

However, the thought of singing "Think ahead to a time when you're little boy's a man, and you'd give anything to hold him again" with my precious 8 year old next to me made me sob, so I knew there was no way I could do it for real! As I prayed and thought, God gave me an idea for a song. Amazingly, the words and tune just flowed from me! It went really well ~ so well that I'm prayerfully considering trying to get my song published. Please pray with me about this, sisters.

The kiddos and I are wrapping up our homeschool year next week, but I still have the work ahead of final grading, paperwork, cleaning, and planning/ordering for next fall. This year, I'm adding my youngest for formal preschool! She's SO ready!

As I state in the "about me" section, I want this blog to edify my sisters in Christ. I desire to stay true to the Word and be an encouragement to other women. That being said, I'm going to begin another Elizabeth George study this week. (I know it seems that I'm sort of dropping the Ministry of Motherhood study, but I feel led to do this new study for now. We can resume Mrs. Clarkson's study at a later date.)

Elizabeth George's book, "Powerful Promises for Every Woman" is an in-depth study of the 23rd Psalm. It's challenging, comforting, and inspiring, all in one! Please join me as we begin tomorrow. Until then, my sisters!

Elohim

2010-04-30T17:03:00.005-05:00

Hello, sisters! God is so amazing, isn't He? I was up late/early again this morning, listening to the wind whistle through the trees and the rain pound on the roof. When I went out later in the morning, the earth smelled so fresh and fragrant-- that unique aroma that only God can create. At noon, as I was out and about with my kids, the sun broke through the overcast sky, casting its brilliant rays to the ground. I smiled. "God is good."

I enjoy these simple things so much because I know that God takes great delight in His creation as well. The praise I lift to my Creator is found in John's Revelation, chaper 4:11

"Thou art worthy, O Lord,

to receive glory and honour and power:

for thou hast created all things,

and for thy pleasure they are and were created."

I delighted in creation this morning-- and listened to the Lord speak to me. The scent of the rain reminded me to put on the fragrance of Christ, and the sun piercing the cloudy sky reminded me to let my light shine for Him.

Late Night ~ Early Morning Thoughts

2010-04-29T03:22:00.009-05:00

I began studying the book of Romans this morning-- it's just after 3 am, and I couldn't sleep. I've been so-- grieved-- I guess is the word-- over the state of our fallen world. I simply cannot comprehend WHY so many people can deny the existence of God! They have no reverence for Him-- even some people who profess Christ express no desire to live for Him! Year by year, decade by decade, our world continues to sink even deeper in degradation. The increase of people who have the audacity to deny, shake their fists and spit into the face of the very One Who created them and sustains their lives grieves me. Fellow sisters and brothers that live for themselves and ignore or water down the Word of God for the sake of being labeled "intolerant" grieves me.

The first chapter in Romans deals with the ways of fallen man. Even though this was written in the era of the decadence of the Roman Empire, it reads like today's newspaper.

"Because that, when they knew God,

they glorified him not as God,

neither were thankful;

but their foolish heart was darkened.

Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

and changed the glory of the incorruptible God

into an image made like to corruptible man....

Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness

through the lusts of their own hearts,

to dishonour their own bodies between themselves;

Who changed the truth of God into a lie,

and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator,

who is blessed forever, Amen.

For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections;

for even their women did change the natural use

into that which is against nature:

And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman,

burned in their lust one toward another;

men with men working that which is unseemly,

and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet.

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge,

God gave them over to a reprobate mind,

to do those things which are not convenient;

Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication,

wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness;

full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity;

whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud,

boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

without understanding, covenant breakers,

without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful;

Who knowing the judgment of God,

that they which commit such things are worthy of death,

not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them."

Whew! That's quite the eye-opener, isn't it? Scripture is crystal clear about God's attitude towards sin. He simply does not tolerate it! He's too holy and pure to look past it. In fact, verse 18 of Romans 1 says "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness."

I don't say this gloatingly or with an attitude of "Well, they'll get what's coming to them." We're all made of the same stuff! Mankind is both a religious sinner (ungodly) and a moral sinner (unrighteous). The unrighteous man lives as if there were no will of God revealed, and the ungodly man lives as if there were no God at all. God's wrath is against both the ungodly and the unrighteous.

Those ungodly, unrighteous men hold-- or suppress-- or deny--the truth of God's righteousness.
Verses 19-20 clearly show that these men deny the existence of God, even though God has:

1. Revealed Himself in nature.
Psalm 19:1 states: "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shewth his handywork." Think about it-- the "vastness of space declares the magnitude of God! The energy of a thousand suns is but a token of His divine energy! The perfect timing of the planetary movement declares His precision! And yet, the multifaceted declaration of the heavens only begins to show the great glory of God! The firmament displays the most visible evidence of God's presence in the universe!"

This gives man the ability to draw the conclusion that there is a Supreme Creator-- therefore man has been given sufficient knowledge of God to make him responsible to God! Only men made in the image of God posses a wonder-- an awe-- a "basic idea of God and His righteousness." They are, in fact, "without excuse".

Which brings us to the next verse and the next witness of God's existence-- "Because that, when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God."
2. God reveals Himself to man's conscience.
God has planted in the heart of every human being the knowledge that there is a righteous God. Even though the ungodly, unrighteous man know that there IS a God that deserves to be glorified, they willfully choose not to do so. They are more than willing to accept the good things of nature from the hand of God, but are not thankful for them.

Because they want to deny the proof of God's existence, these men develop a reasoning process, or philosophy of what they want to choose to believe. However, these philosophies only plunge them deeper in darkness. They exult their human reasoning over the wisdom of God, which is foolish. This is why they have to create a god that suits them. They have, in fact, "devised their own concept of divinity, and have placed it above the one true God." Since they have suppressed the truth God has revealed in nature and in their own conscience, God has given them over to a reprobate (undiscerning) mind. Although Scripture tells us that "God isn't willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance", He knows that not everyone wants to.

How it must grieve Him to give them over to a reprobate mind-- allowing them to continue in their sin! "The effects of their (Not God's!) abandonment result solely from the corruption of the human heart; this cannot be blamed on God."

This depraved world is quite aware of God's displeasure of their sin. This is why they both flaunt and excuse it. "Even though they are fully cognizant of the consequences of their sin, they continue to defy the Lord God of heaven and take great pleasure in keeping company with those that do the same."

Now here's where I get blown away-- yet God still loves them! Psalm 103 has to be my favorite passage in the Bible. Check this out:

The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger,

and plenteous in mercy.

He will not always chide;

neither will he keep his anger forever.

He hath not dealt with us after our sins;

nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

For as the heaven is high above the earth,

so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

As far as the east is from the west,

so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

Like as a father pitieth his children,

so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.

For he knoweth our frame;

he remembereth that we are dust.

As for man, his days are as grass;

as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.

For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone;

and the place therof shall know it no more.

But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting

to everlasting upon them that fear him,

and his righteousness unto children's children;

To such as keep his covenant, and

to those that remember his commandments to do them.

The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens;

and his kingdom ruleth over all!

Notice a theme there? To receive God's mercy, grace and forgiveness, one must be willing to acknowledge God for who He IS and admit his need for a Savior. It amazes me how simple it is!

Not only does the simplicity amaze me, but what amazes and humbles me most is to realize that God loved us so much that He sent Jesus to become sin for us! So that-- when we trust in Him as our Savior-- we might obtain the righteousness of God!

It's humanly impossible to understand that kind of love-- that kind of mercy-- that kind of grace--that kind of redemption-- yet I'll thankfully, humbly and joyfully embrace it wholeheartedly!

"Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name!"

I praise you, my Jesus! My Redeemer, my Deliverer, my Savior and King!

Simply Dad's Favorite Casserole

2010-04-14T08:00:00.003-05:00

Ingredients:

2 c, uncooked noodles
1 lb. lean hamburger, browned
1/2 c. diced onion, sauted in 1 T butter
1 c. cottage cheese
1 c. milk
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 c. grated cheddar cheese
1 beaten egg

Directions:
Cook the noodles in boiling salted water just under al dente. Drain. Mix the browned hamburger, onion and cottage cheese together. In a greased 2 qt. casserole, layer 1/3 of the noodles and 1/2 of meat mixture. Repeat, ending with noodles. Combine milk and soup together. Pour over top of casserole and sprinkle with grated cheese. Pour beaten egg over cheese. Bake, covered, at 350 for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes or until golden.

This was one of my mom's go-to meals when I was growing up. She usually served peas on the side as well as the constant plate of bread and butter that went with every meal. I remember her serving strawberry Jello with Cool Whip as dessert.

The Grace of Time Together

2010-04-12T13:43:00.006-05:00

Wow, sisters! After a LONG hiatus, I'm glad to be back in my book study! As I mentioned in an earlier post, I went to visit my mother and my best friend from college. I had an enjoyable, relaxing time! Once I returned home, however, I just couldn't get into the groove with daily blogging. I'm glad to have continued my study ~ just didn't get it on the computer. So let's dive into the next chapter of extending grace to our children ~ by giving the gift of time to our kids.

Mrs. Clarkson writes "...I've also realized that my dreams [for my children] are not what really motivate my children to become the best they can be. What matters to them is my loving presence.... If I want them to be open to my messages, I need to be willing to serve them ~ to voluntarily give up my rights and my time to meet their felt needs ~ just as Jesus was willing to give for His disciples."

Think about how Jesus must have felt the night before His crucifixion. He knew from the beginning of time exactly what He was going to have to endure to redeem the souls of mankind. Please read Isaiah chapter 53. Try to imagine the magnitude of what was on Jesus' mind that evening. Yet, He still took the time to minister to His disciples. Please read John 13:1, 3-5. Jesus knew that each man (excluding Judas) was going to have to die for the kingdom just He was about to do. He didn't order them to do His will ~ He simply served.

Here was the King of the Universe, the Eternal One, the Creator, in the flesh ~ washing the grime and dust off the feet of His friends. He later broke the bread and served each one of them for the celebrated feast of the Passover.

If I want to teach my children about the grace of God, then "I must recognize that my love and service to them must come before any of my great words, my teaching and training. My time, my attention is what builds our relationship and prepares them to listen to what I have to say. Only then, once the wells of their need are filled with the grace of being loved, will my words to them about God's grace finally make sense."

"Serving" our children, of course, doesn't mean that we let them order us around or give into their whims. That certainly wasn't Jesus' example. The disciples knew He was their leader. Jesus commanded their obedience, but He didn't do it by pulling rank. He put their welfare second only to the will of the Father.

Giving our children this gift of grace requires commitment and a sacrifice of time, love and heart service. Consider Philippians 2:7-8.

So, what are some ways I can serve my children? Well, first we must have the proper affection for them. "Shelly, what are you talking about? Of course I LOVE my children!" Titus 2:4 tells us that mothers are "to love their children." Doesn't sound too revolutionary, but yet the Greek word used for love here is phileo. That means that I am to have an affectionate love, a love that cherishes its object. It is a friendship love, a love that enjoys children, a love that likes them!

In the book A Woman After God's Own Heart, Elizabeth George writes about a woman whose heart is overflowing with motherly affection. In fact, she dedicates two chapters to this godly mom! She encourages us to have:
1. A Heart that Prays ~ By doing so, it will draw them even deeper into our hearts.
2. A Heart that Provides ~ "A heart overflowing with motherly affection lovingly and graciously provides the necessities of life for her precious family."
3. A Heart that is Happy ~ "You create the atmosphere of the home with your attitudes."
4. A Heart that Gives ~
a. It's our role! "Someone has to undertake the wondrous task of having the family become a work of art."
b. Give generously! "She who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and she who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully!" (2 Corinthians 9:6)
c. Give expecting nothing in return.
5. A Heart of Fun ~ "Living in your home should be an absolute ball for every family member."
6. A Heart that Celebrates ~ "We have to be mothers; we have to do the duties, so why not go the extra mile and turn the mundane into a celebration?"
7. A Heart that gives Preferential Treatment ~ "Titus 2:4 teaches us that our husband and children are to take priority over all other human relationships and responsibilities."
8. A Heart that is Focused ~ "Beware of double-booking." In other words, don't try to focus on other people and our children at the same time. Here is an example Mrs. George gave. A mother was having a difficult time with her teenage daughter and was seeking counsel from Mrs. George via telephone. After 20 minutes of conversation, Mrs. George heard the mother say, "Oh, hello, honey." When Mrs. George asked the mother who it was, the mother said coolly, "Oh, it's only my daughter." The message this mother sent was loud and clear. Her phone call was more important than her God-given daughter.
9. A Heart that is Present ~ "Our presence in the home is important. No dollar amount can ever be put on the value of our presence at home after school, in the evening, at night, and on weekends and holidays."
10. A Heart that is Quiet ~ "A loving mother whose heart is quiet never broadcasts any harmful or critical information, not anything general and nothing specific about her children."

I want to extend the gift of grace to my kids by giving my time to them! I want them to know they are valued and treasured. After all, the Lord entrusted them to me!

The Best News EVER!

2010-04-10T07:54:00.002-05:00

Hello, Sisters! I have the best news a mom can share! Yesterday during homeschool, my son came up to me, visibly upset. "Honey, what's the matter?" I asked my newly-turned eight-year old.
"Mom, I don't know for sure if I'm going to Heaven. What if you and dad and my sisters get to go, but I don't? I don't want Jesus to leave me behind."
"You can know for sure, Son. Do you want me to tell you how?"
He nodded. Not too long after, the angels were rejoicing!
What a precious gift and tremendous blessing I received! Not only to lead my son to the Lord, but to share the blessed hope and peace that comes from knowing that no man can pluck me from the hand of Jesus! As believers, we can rejoice that we are eternally safe and secure in the hand of the Father AND of the Son! (John 10)
Praise the name of Jesus!

Simply Creamy Chicken Crescents

2010-03-31T10:30:00.001-05:00

Ingredients:
1 tube Pillsbury crescent rolls
1 8-oz. package cream cheese at room temperature
2 T. butter, melted
1 T. chopped chives
2 green onions, minced and sauted until softened
2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
1/4 c. crushed croutons

Directions:
Mix cream cheese, 1 T of the butter, chives, onions and chicken together. Set aside. Unroll crescents and separate into 4 rectangles and pinch perforations firmly to seal. I make the squares a bit thinner with a rolling pin. Spoon 1/4 of chicken mixture to top of crescent square. Pull up four corners of dough to top center of chicken mixture. Twist and seal edges. Brush tops with remaining butter and sprinkle with crouton crumbs. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.
I like to serve this with chicken/broccoli flavored Rice-a-Roni and California mix frozen veggies.

It's Great to Be Home!

2010-03-29T11:39:00.002-05:00

Well, sisters, it's great to be back online! My router decided to quit working, so I was without a computer for over a week! My inbox was crazy full! Also, last week, I went to SW Missouri for a visit and enjoyed spending time with my mother and one of my best friends from college. Today's the day to get everything unpacked and put away. Thankfully, the kids are still on Spring Break for the rest of this week! I'll be continuing my book study tomorrow. Have a blessed day!

Simply Meatloaf ~ 3 Ways

2010-03-24T10:30:00.003-05:00

Ingredients:

Meatloaf Base
1 1/2 lb. lean hamburger (the leaner the better)
1/2 c. quick-cook oatmeal
1/2 c. minced onion
2 eggs
2/3 c. milk
salt and pepper to taste
1 c. shredded cheese of choice

Cheeses:
American style ~ Cheddar
Italian style ~ Italian cheese blend
Mexican style ~ Mexican cheese blend

Directions:

I usually saute the onion a little butter. Beat eggs into the milk. Add in hamburger, onions, oats, seasonings, and cheese of choice. Combine, but mix lightly ~ if mixed too much, the loaves get too dense. Spray a 9x13 Pyrex with cooking spray. Form mixture into 8 individual loaves. Spoon desired topping over and bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes.

Topping:
American style ~ (Mix together 2/3 c. ketchup, 1/2 c. brown sugar, 1 1/2 t mustard)
Italian style ~ Favorite jarred spaghetti sauce
Mexican style ~ Picante sauce or queso

For American style, I usually serve mac-n-cheese and green beans to complete the meal.
For Italian style, tri-colored or regular rotini would be a great side with the remaining spaghetti sauce. A salad would round things out.
For Mexican style, Mexican-flavored rice and mixed vegetables would add great color.

Where Am I?

2010-03-22T17:29:00.002-05:00

Hello, sisters! I've not posted lately because our computer was down for a while. Right now, I'm writing on my mother's laptop while visiting her for the week. I'll be back to regular posting next Monday. Have a blessed week!

Simply Baked Pasta

2010-03-17T10:30:00.002-05:00

Ingredients:

1/2 -3/4 package ziti or penne pasta
1 jar spaghetti sauce
1 c. ricotta cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 T. chives
1/2 c. shredded Parmesan
1 c. mozzarella

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350. Cook pasta according to package directions. Mix ricotta with egg and add in chives. Spray a 9x13 Pyrex with cooking spray. Layer pasta, spaghetti sauce, ricotta mixture, Parmesan and mozzarella. Continue until used up. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Serve with salad and garlic toast.

Hey, girls, I've recently discovered fresh mozzarella and I love it! You can usually find it in the specialty cheeses section at the grocery store. It's round, and even comes in little pearl-like balls. It sometimes comes packed in water. It's a little pricey, but SO worth it! The taste is SO much better than the typical rubbery stuff that's pre-shredded. Give it a try!

Simply Ham and Swiss Stromboli

2010-03-10T10:30:00.003-06:00

Ingredients:

1 tube Pillsbury French Loaf bread
1 package Virginia brand ham
1/2 c. shredded Swiss cheese
4 green onions, minced
6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350. Unroll bread. Cover with ham slices. Layer on cheese, onions and bacon. Re-roll loaf. Place seam-side down on baking sheet. Make 5-6 diagonal slashes across loaf, width-wise. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden. I like to serve this with chips and a fruit salad.

For a twist, use turkey and colby-jack, or roast beef and cheddar. You could make it "club style" using all three meats and cheeses.

Out of the Boat ~ A Model for Grace

2010-03-08T11:45:00.002-06:00

Webster's Dictionary defines "grace" as "beauty or charm of form, composition, movement, or expression" in its first definition. The second definition states that grace is "an attractive quality, feature, manner, etc." The third definition adds "a sense of what is right and proper, decency, thoughtfulness toward others". It isn't until the fourth definition that "good will, favor" are mentioned.

God's idea of grace, however, is this: "Taking all that Christ was and is ~ his mercy and love, his righteousness and holiness, his power and intelligence, his creativity and wisdom ~ and focuses all of it for the benefit of an undeserving person." In other words, "unmerited favor". Mrs. Clarkson writes, "His serving us in generous love through a loving, humble relationship introduces us to the essence of his personality. His grace changes our lives and is the foundation for our learning to give grace to others in our relationships."

In chapter one of Mrs. Clarkson's book, The Ministry of Motherhood, she begins with the story of Simon Peter. After Jesus resurrected and met with his disciples, He left them alone for a little while. Although he knew that Jesus was alive and had forgiven him for denying him, Peter still returned to his old life of fishing. Peter, James and John had fished all night but hadn't caught a thing. Dejected, Peter drew up the net, ready to call it a day. But then, he heard a voice call from the shore, "Have you caught anything?" "No!" Peter replied. "Then cast your nets on the other side!" the man on the shore suggested. Even though Peter was doubtful, he obeyed. It wasn't until the net became full of fish that he looked toward the shore. John was the first to recognize his Lord, but Peter jumped out of the boat and swam toward the shore to his Master.

Was Jesus standing there, irritated and ready to reprimand his chosen disciple for quitting so soon? Of course not! Instead, He had prepared breakfast for his friends. Jesus was always patient, encouraging, loving and forgiving with His disciples.

From the very beginning, Jesus called his disciples to a life apart from the crowd. He had a great purpose and plan for their lives as his representative that would preach the gospel to every person. He gave the gift of Himself, and then asked them to pass along that gift to the rest of the world, drawing from His strength and grace, not by their own power.

That's what we as mothers can take this lesson of grace to heart. "Like Jesus, we are to draw out own children to a life apart from the rest of the crowd. Each of us is designed by God to whisper his words to the hearts of our children so they will feel the call of God in their own lives to become "fishers of men." Like Peter, our children will never be perfect, and they need their mom to extend them the gift of constant love, grace, and forgiveness. We can't do it in our own strength. The only way we can do this is to rely continually on the grace of our own relationship with the Lord.

Giving the gift of grace is a two-part process. First, we need to help our children receive grace. This is by extending grace to them and by teaching them about God's grace through salvation. Secondly, we must train our children to give grace to others in turn. We can do this by our teaching and example.

"Jesus summed up this two-part process when he was asked to name the greatest commandment. He said we are first to love the Lord God with all our hearts (receiving grace), and then we are to love our neighbors as ourselves (giving grace)."

Mrs. Clarkson shares that we are to "try to be mindful that, to God, relationships are always a top priority." She tries to think of ways to model the redemptive grace and love of Jesus and influences them to extend that grace to others through their actions and attitudes.

Extending grace to my children ~ I like that thought! Like Jesus, I need to be more encouraging and forgiving to my kiddos. I can't do it in my own strength, though. Extending true grace can only come from my own relationship with Jesus!

My Ministry ~ Motherhood!

2010-03-03T09:27:00.005-06:00

As Christians, we all desire to have a close, true relationship with our Savior. Along with spending time in the Word and going into my prayer closet, I read certain blogs that challenge me spiritually and remind me of God's goodness and grace. I don't know about you, sisters, but whenever I hear a beautiful worship song about God's power and His Truth, or read Scripture about God's infinite mercy and love, I weep with joy!

It hasn't always been that way for me, though. I didn't really "fall in love with the Lord" until 6 years ago. As I've stated in a previous post, I grew up in a Christian home. When Sunday morning rolled around, the only option was Sunday School and morning worship services. I loved the Bible stories as a young girl and always strove to memorize my verse for the week. Then the early teen years came along, filled with angst and emotion! I was always trying to fit in, but going to church became sheer torture, because a certain girls' clique was intent to make my life miserable. Needless to say, I didn't get much out church from age 13-16 until we attended another. However, by then, I had the Christian "thing" down.

Yes, I was a Christian, but I never knew "how" to be one. I could talk the talk with the best of them, but my walk was sadly lacking. My growing up years were managed by a list of rules that I had to follow to be a good Christian ~ "Don't drink, smoke, dance, wear pants, have sex, or go to movies." I knew I supposed to read my Bible, but how? How did one "study" the Bible? It was at least 10 years ago that I learned how to pray ~ praise, adoration, thanksgiving, intercession, and supplication.

Then it happened! I gave birth to my daughter, and suddenly, I became responsible to lead her to the faith! Now I am the blessed mother of three, and I want my children to have an "unwavering, internal moral and spiritual compass that will help them weather today's storms and tomorrow's and will guide them for the rest of their lives." They will "need the authentic strength that comes from the true foundation of a biblical world view and a proper understanding of the real Christ who is worthy of their worship. The also need to see what real faith looks like when lived day in, day out, so they will have a pattern to follow."

God has entrusted the hubs and I with three precious little souls to minister to, as well as influence for His kingdom. Spiritual and emotional maturity won't just happen to my children simply because I wish it to be so. It won't happen just because I show an example of being good. "Effective spiritual, emotional, and social training in the lives of my children would have to be both intentional and planned." This is where discipling comes into play.

Jesus spent 3 1/2 years teaching and training (mostly) unlearned men to carry on His work. When Jesus died, they were fearful and were in hiding. Even after He resurrected, the disciples went fishing, forgetting all that the Lord had taught them. It wasn't until after the Great Commission and Pentecost that they were filled with the Holy Spirit and were bold in their faith. Acts 4:13 says, "Now when they {the Sadducees} saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus." Acts 17:6 refers Christians as "These that have turned the world upside down."

That's my desire for my kids. I want them to take hold of the faith and never let go. I want them to carry on the work. I want them to have boldness and be willing to turn the world upside down for Christ. I want Christ to be real in their lives and hearts. I want them to have that abundant, wonderful life in Jesus. And what do I want to give to my children that God's so freely given to me? Grace, love, a sense of purpose, and faith in Him.

Mrs. Clarkson's model for motherhood ministry is GIFTS:
1. Gift of Grace ~ "We model grace by extending it to our children but also by insisting that they learn to extend it to others."
2. Gift of Inspiration ~ "The desire and ability to view all of life in the light of God's sovereignty and purpose."
3. Gift of Faith ~ "This gift is given by teaching the faith and by modeling what it means to live in faith, trusting God for our needs."
4. Gift of Training ~ "It's not just telling children how to live, not just modeling right behavior, but repeating these lessons with patience and perseverance until they become part of their lives."
5. Gift of Service ~ "The desire and ability to minister God's grace and truth to others."

Tomorrow I will be posting about the gift of grace.

This & That

2010-03-02T22:46:00.002-06:00

I haven't prepared a post for today ~ I've been researching and planning ahead for next fall's curriculum for my youngest. She'll begin K-4, and is she ever excited! I'll be writing about the "ministry of motherhood" tomorrow.

The Ministry of Motherhood

2010-02-26T08:30:00.001-06:00

In my mind, homemaking and motherhood go hand in hand. Baking cookies ~ children. Wiping faces orange-stained with Spaghetti-Os ~ children. Vacuuming up purple and blue glitter piles embedded in my beige carpet ~ children. Wiping sticky fingerprints off the front door and TV screen ~ children. Decorating for St. Patrick's Day ~ children. Planning a Christian Passover Sedar ~ children. Planning Resurrection Sunday ~ children. Home ~ children!

Now the hubs fits in, too ~ quite nicely, may I add ~ but my children and their needs take up a huge part of my job as a homemaker. Ever since I've allowed the Lord to work in my attitude about striving more to be that Proverbs 31 woman, He's impressed the importance about discipling my children. I've been convicted SO MUCH in this area that I'm going to be posting about my journey as I learn about my ministry as a mother.

I found a book Sally Clarkson wrote called "The Ministry of Motherhood". The premise of this book is to challenge women to disciple their children to be passionate, devoted servants of Christ.

She uses the acronym "GIFTS" to show how we can make a lasting difference in our child's life by following the pattern Christ set with His own disciples. The GIFTS we give our children are the GIFTS of :

G ~ Grace
I ~ Inspiration
F ~ Faith
T ~ Training
S ~ Service

Elizabeth George also has a wonderful section about a mother's ministry in her best-selling book, "A Woman After God's Own Heart" which prompted her to write "A Mom After God's Own Heart". I'll be sharing my thoughts as I study these books in the weeks to come.

The Most Important Aspect of the Home

2010-02-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

"The atmosphere we create in our home

directly affects our home's most

important aspect:

the relationships we have there.

We want our home to have an atmosphere

that allows souls to be replenished,

love to flourish, and God to be glorified.

Sights, sounds, smells, taste, and touches

are merely a means to minister

to our loved ones while here on earth.

Furnishings and fabrics will someday be gone.

Food will be eaten.

Music and laughter will be hushed.

Fragrance will no longer fill the rooms.

But the memories of the atmosphere

and the relationships in our home will live on forever.

~ Terry Willits ~

The Importance of Discipling Our Children in the Home

2010-02-25T11:00:00.001-06:00

This post contains my notes from a message by Voddie Bauchman. I heard this sermon recently, and was challenged in my original thinking about my role as a parent.

The Centrality of the Home in Evangelism and Discipleship of the Next Generation

According to recent studies, Southern Baptist churches are rapidly loosing the next generation of believers. The studies show that between 75% - 88% of "churched" young people leave their faith by the time they've reached the end of their 1st year of college.

Because America's birth rate (1.9 children per family) is now below the replacement rate (2.1), we're not having enough children for our culture to survive. For example, in France, the birth rate is 1.5. Muslims in France are having around 6 children per family. That means that in 2 generations, France will be a Muslim country by sheer numbers alone! The French have unwittingly exchanged their culture (by not producing the next generation of children) for fleeting prosperity.

Sound familiar? America's not too far behind. Just think how many Christian people think that having more than 2 children is too many! "One for her, one for him. Now we're done, Amen!" We need to get a Biblical view on children and not conform to the worldly ideals that have taken hold in our way of thinking. God believes that all children are a blessing ~ Just read Psalm 127:3-5!

With this current precedent in place, that means that to replace the 75% of young people leaving the faith, it would take 2 families to get 1 Christian into the next generation. What does this look like? According to the Southern Baptist Convention, our generation has 16 million professing Southern Baptists "on paper". That means that:
The 2nd generation (my children) will be 4 million.
The 3rd (my grandchildren) ~ 1 million.
The 4th (my great-grandchildren) ~ 250,000.

What about evangelism? After all, we have all kinds of outreach ministries in the church, don't we? Yes, we can reach the unsaved, (and are commanded to do so by Christ Himself in Matthew 28:19-20) but recent studies state that it would take reaching 3 people to replace the 1 Christian teen who has left the faith! Currently, according to studies by the Southern Baptist Convention, in regular outreach ministries, it takes 43 people to reach just 1!

The churches will continue to be filled, but according to estimates of the Southern Baptist Journal of Theology, only 1/2 of the church members are even saved. In broad terms , that means that Christianity is dying in America, 1 home at at time, 1 generation at a time. Pastor Bauchman states, "We divorce ourselves from the issue by hiring youth pastors to make it better." So how can we turn this around? Pastor Bauchman used the complete context of Ephesians 5:15-6:4 as a guide.

A. The Context
1. There are 3 contrasts (vs. 15-18)
a. Walk wise; days are evil. (vs. 15-16)
b. Don't be foolish; understand what God's will is. (vs. 17)
c. Don't be drunk with wine; be filled with the Spirit. (vs.18)
2. There are 3 commands (vs. 19-21)
a. Be worshipful. "Sing and make melody in your heart to the Lord." (vs. 19)
b. Be prayerfully thankful. "Give thanks always for all things to God and the Father, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (vs.20)
c. Be submissive to Biblical authority. "Submit yourselves one to another in the fear of God." (vs. 21)
d. When these commands are obeyed, then the next point can be followed, which is:
3. There are 3 contexts (5:22-6:9)
a. The relationship of wives/ husbands (vs. 22-33)
b. The relationship of children/parents (vs.1-4)
c. The relationship of servants/masters (vs. 5-9)

B. The Fifth Commandment ~ "Honor thy father and thy mother"
1. It is the first commandment with a promise ~ "that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee."
a. The first four commandments are from God to man ~ there are no promises attached ~ we must simply obey!
~ I AM God ~ Don't get another one!
~ Don't make anything that looks like Me!
~ Don't mess with My name.
~ Don't mess with My day.
b. The last six commandments are man to man.
~ The fact that this commandment is first on this list screams its importance.
~ "Honor thy father and thy mother."
2. This commandment is for the community of faith, not for the individual child.
a. The home is central to discipleship! (Deuteronomy 6:4-7)
b. Parents are to impress loving the Lord, serving, and worshiping Him to their children.
c. Parents are to "talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."
3. This commandment was given to the Israelites before they were going to inhabit pagan lands.
a. "Be fruitful and multiply".
b. Disciple children in the home so they don't look like the culture surrounding them.
c. Our current society is a pagan culture as well, and we need to train our children to be different than the culture.
d. The community of God will disappear if we don't.

C. Fathers: Disciple your children.
1. Parents don't train their children ~ they hire youth pastors to do it.
a. In the last 30 years, there has been the largest increase in youth outreach, but a decrease in youth baptisms. (According to the book "Raising the Bar")
b. For a child to be Spirit-filled, we shouldn't lead them to the youth pastor ~ we need to lead them!
c. The child's spiritual temperature is based on whether or not they are submissive to their PARENTS as a spiritual authority.
d. Unfortunately, the parents have willingly stepped aside, handing their sacred responsibility over to their child's youth pastor.
e. What is the current approach to youth ministry?
1. To evangelize teens
2. To disciple teens
3. To equip them to evangelize others.
d. HOWEVER ~ this approach is:
~ Un-biblical
~ Anti-thetical to the Biblical model
~ Simply doesn't work (hence the 75%-88% current failure rate)
2. The church needs to teach the parents how to disciple their children, not do it for them.
a. The church doesn't tithe for its members ~ it teaches them to tithe.
b. The youth ministry should exist to equip and assist parents as the parents do what God has called them to do!

Although I haven't experienced the "blessing" of teenagers yet, I'm challenged by the wisdom of Pastor Bauchman's charge. All to often, we as parents, don't realize the responsibility to teach our kids what we believe and why we believe it. Perhaps ignorance, thoughtlessness, or feeling inadequate is the reason. We hope that simply taking them to church will reinforce our values and beliefs. We allow "programs" such as children's ministries, Bible stories, rap sessions, youth camps and conferences do our jobs for us. These things in themselves are good ~ please don't misjudge what I'm saying. My children receive the blessings of the many people who love them and desire to teach and train them as well. These programs just need to be in addition to our discipleship at home.

The following was taken from A Wise Woman Builds Her Home:

"Did you know that we are losing our children to the world before they ever step out to go to college? Why is this? Is there glaring hypocrisy in our own lives? Was there too much worldly influence allowed in the home that caused them to go astray? Was there a lack of biblical teaching in the home leaving it up to the church folk and Sunday school classes?

It is fully the parents responsibility to teach their children what the Word teaches about everything under the sun! This is a sacred responsibility ~ do not hand it over to another! If they have a stronger foundation in the 'why' behind their belief in God, they will be able to stand firm ~ if not, they will be plucked right out of the ground as soon as anyone questions or confronts their faith.

I believe every Christian home should teach biblical apologetics for this very reason. Over and over again we find examples in Scripture were the Word of God was not taught to the next generation and they quickly forgot and followed wicked ways. God was angry and brought curses and destruction upon them. Teaching God's Word must be seen as imperative and not merely an option. Let us not be a people who drops the torch as we pass it down to the next generation."

Simply Stroganoff

2010-02-24T09:30:00.001-06:00

Ingredients:

1/2 c. diced onion
1 clove minced garlic
1 T melted butter
1 lb. lean hamburger (However, I always use the leftover Sunday roast!)
1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 can reduced sodium beef broth
1 cup sour cream (8 oz. container)
salt and pepper
season-all salt
1 T chives
noodles (cooked according to package directions)

Directions:

Saute onion and garlic in butter until translucent. Add in meat of choice. Drain excess fat if using hamburger. Add soup and broth to desired consistency. (I pour any remaining broth into noodle cooking liquid.) When ready to serve, stir in sour cream, and seasonings (to taste). Serve over noodles. A great side dish is steamed baby carrots.

Home Culture

2010-02-23T09:45:00.002-06:00

Home culture is the atmosphere

that is purposefully and intentionally

cultivated within the four walls of your home.

It is the music when you walk in the door,

it is the conversation at the dinner table,

it is games played by the fireside,

it is the singing when your daughters do the dishes

or the laughter of small toddlers

who find a small green caterpillar.

Culture...it exists just as richly and lively inside your home as it does outside your front door.

Dear Mothers, we weave the tapestry

of homelife for our loved ones

as we create the culture of our home.

As we sit down and plan the days and months ahead,

we purposefully begin writing what is akin to a novel

of soon-to-be memories of our families lives.

The music played the background of your homes today

will become the soundtrack from their childhood.

The art you hang on your walls can leave

a deep and lasting impression on a child's mind and soul.

Children will forever fondly remember the smells, music, joy and memories of their childhood and always fondly desire to return to it...even when they are old and gray.

Home culture takes planning...

it takes time...it takes thought.

Mothers hold the brush in painting the beauty,

fun and memories in children's lives.

"By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches."

~ Proverbs 24:3-4 ~

Dear Mothers, what a privilege it is to prepare

such a place for our families.

Prayerfully begin planning the culture for your home today!

Chapter 24 ~ A Harvest of a Lifetime ~ Her Reward

2010-02-22T10:33:00.002-06:00

Proverbs 31:31 "Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates."

Well, sisters, this is the last chapter of Elizabeth George's book, "Beautiful in God's Eyes". I've so enjoyed doing this study ~ as I've mentioned before, I've been reprimanded, challenged, encouraged, and motivated. This last chapter is a culmination of all the things this wonderful woman has been working for so diligently, and now she receives her reward.
This lady has "chosen to live her life in the shadows and to bear fruit that grows only in the shade. Hidden at home, she gives her utmost for God's highest glory as a woman who fears the Lord." The rewards that await this beautiful woman that "has long been content to silently serve? A loud and unanimous chorus of praise!"

The Fruit of Her Hands:
"Give her of the fruit of her hands..." "Just as admirers award conquerors prizes for their feats and prowess, so we too are to give God's beautiful woman her prizes." In other words, give the gal some credit! "Give her the profit she's earned, the goods she's worked, the reputation she's established, the marriage she's nurtured, the home she's built, the family life she's cultivated, the future she's labored for! Give it all to her!"
In today's society, our Proverbs 31 woman is mocked, disdained, and despised. Today's "modern" woman considers her to be "just a housewife", or one that is wasting her talents and abilities at home when she could be out making a good living in the corporate world.
However, God calls us to praise her, admire her, follow her and to become like her! In his book The Book of Proverbs, W.O.E. Oesterly wrote this about our Lady: "This verse forms a fitting conclusion to what is the most remarkable exposition in the OT on the position of women, exalting... her functions in the home as wife, mother, and mistress, and showing how contentedness and happiness in the domestic circle depend upon the foresight and oversight of this queen of the hearth."

Praise in the Gates:
"Let her own works praise her in the gates." This means that others outside her home were praising her publicly for her works. Mrs. George writes, "How lovely and how encouraging to see that where men congregate, where the leaders of the people meet in solemn assembly, her praise is sung and the highest honor ascribed to her!"
Although her motivation has been to care for others ~ and placing herself last ~ although her work has been seemingly unnoticed, although her work is behind the scenes, now her deeds are "publicly acknowledged and acclaimed." She now gets to enjoy a good reputation and a high standing in the community. It was said that "Much of what...women do is in a supportive role, but imagine what would happen to a building if its support pillars were removed!"
Mrs. George writes, "Even if all voice were silent, even if no words of praise were spoken, the woman who is beautiful in God's eyes would receive the honor due her: Her very works are a monument to her name. The works of her hands and the fruit of her labor find a voice and proclaim her praise! As our poem declared earlier, 'A woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised' (vs 29) ~ no matter what!"

An Invitation to Beauty:
"Every voice possible is praising our woman who is so very beautiful in God's eyes!" Her children, (vs. 28) her husband, (vs 28,29,31 ~ he is one of the voices in the gates!) other people, (vs 31) her own works, (vs 31) and most importantly, God. (vs. 30 ~ the fear of the Lord results in His praise!) Notice the only voice missing? The woman's! She's not bragging about her job as homemaker ~ She lives by Proverbs 27:2 "Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips."
Mrs. George concludes her book with this thought: [God's beautiful woman] "is here in Proverbs 31 to inspire, instruct, and encourage you when you fail, when you find your vision dimming, or when you sense your priorities shifting. A fresh visit... will renew your vision, restore your strength, and rekindle your love for God and your commitment to His plan for making you and your life beautiful in His eyes!"

Chapter 23 ~ A Spirit of Reverence ~ Her Faith

2010-02-19T10:49:00.005-06:00

"Proverbs 31:30 "Favour [charm] is deceitful, and beauty is vain; but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised."

Have you realized that this is the first verse in our study that speaks about beauty? However, the context of this verse shows us exactly what God's idea of true beauty is! And guess what? It isn't what we've been taught all of our lives through the media's influence! A woman's true beauty isn't found in the eyes of a man, the world, the media, or an artist. It's found in the eyes of God, our Father and Maker, our Sustainer of life.

The Twin Vanities of Charm and Beauty:
"Favour/charm is deceitful..." In other words, this wise mother was telling her son, "Don't desire what is charming! Don't fall for the charm! Charm is deceitful. Charm is fickle. Charm is fleeting. In the end, charm is one of life's illusions, one of life's vanities!"
"And beauty is vain," she adds. "Don't be fooled by looks! Remember that beauty is only skin deep. Beauty is fleeting, fading ~ nothing but a vapor!" Mrs. George writes, "Physical beauty is transitory and temporary. It can also be misleading and even dangerous. And, like its twin sister charm, beauty does not guarantee a happy life. Neither does beauty alone effectively manage the nuts-and-bolts reality of life." Have you ever seen a stunningly beautiful TV mom scrubbing a toilet? I thought not!
A friend once told me that a woman will be her most beautiful before the age of 25 ~ of course, she was only in her late teens at the time! However, I've seen the regal bearing, serenity, and yes, beauty in women double and even triple that "prime" age! And it all is because of:

A Love for the Lord:
"...but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised." Finally, we get to see what makes this woman tick! She certainly can't do all she does in her own strength! Maybe she could, for a while, but to continually be joyful and willing, she needs a Mover inside her heart. Only God can give the motivation and energy we need for each day.
To fear the Lord, this woman has a total spiritual commitment to God. Mrs. George writes, "Being beautiful in God's eyes calls for you to focus on your inner character instead of the external appearance.... You are to be primarily concerned about living out the holy character that God works in you as you live in His presence. You are to seek the praise of God rather than men. You are to shun the transitory vanities of this wold and pursue instead the eternal beauty of the Lord.... It is your fear of the Lord that sanctifies every other part of you life and shows the internal majesty of God that is at your very core."
So, what difference does such a deep commitment to the Lord make?
1. His presence will shine in your life.
2. He will be the Source of your strength and motivation.
3. He will give you compassion and mercy to focus on the needs of others.
4. He will energize your conduct, character and love for others.
5. Your faith in God generates, animates, and adorns the beauty of your moral stature and the usefulness of your life.

The How-To's of Beauty:
1. More love to Thee, O Christ ~ We're blessed to be living in the Church Age, and a woman who's beautiful in God's eyes enjoys a personal relationship with His Son, Jesus Christ. When Jesus is on the throne of your heart and life, then all that you do is an act of worship.
2. Schedule time with the Lord ~ Most of us live by our schedules. We schedule appointments for just about everything! However, "You and I schedule non-essentials of life... so don't you think we should schedule time with the Lord?" Remember that prayer closet mentioned in an earlier post? Let's dress there each day for garments of praise, the armor of God, and the fragrance of Christ! There, in that closet, we are "privileged to be able to behold the beauty of the Lord (Psalm 27:4) and worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness (Psalm 29:2)."
3. Embrace God's plan ~ Instead of resisting (or even disdaining) God's perfect design for a woman of beauty, "embrace it, glory in it, delight in its every aspect, excel in it and experience its beauty." We are to take God, His Word, and His plan for our lives seriously.
4. Do your best ~ Our Proverbs 31 woman offers this guideline: "Do what you need to do to be healthy and fit and to bring honor to your family." Consider this quote from author Anne Ortlund. "I noticed that 22 verses [of Proverbs 31] describe this woman's kindness, godliness, hard work, loving relationships ~ and only one verse out of the 22 [verse 22] describes how she looked.... Seeing this kind of proportion in Proverbs 31... I prayed, 'O Father, I want to give 1/22 of my time to making myself as outwardly beautiful as I can and I want to give all the rest of my time, 21/22 of my life, to becoming wise, kind, godly, hard-working, and the rest.'"

Whew! This is a lot to digest today! As we approach the final chapter tomorrow on our study, I've realized how much my attitude has changed about this "Superwoman". She simply allows God to work in her heart, and He shines through her life in return. She willingly opens her heart to His will ~ He gives her the strength and grace to do it.

Grace and Nothing More

I seek the bloom of holiness, He leads me deep within

Reveals the hardness of my heart, unearths my hidden sin.

My barren soul groans in despair, in brokenness I cry,

"Oh God, I find no hope in me!"

A smile ~ His sweet reply.

For where the tears of brokenness have soaked the fallow ground,

The tender shoots of holiness now spring up all around!

By His own hand and faithfulness,

He steers me toward a distant shore.

And the wind that billows in the sail

Is grace and nothing more.

Yes, it's grace and nothing more.

~ Grace and Nothing More ~

~Steve Green ~

Chapter 22 ~ A Crowning Glory ~ Her Praise

2010-02-18T10:43:00.003-06:00

Proverbs 31:28-29 "Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all."

Have you ever been blessed by your husband's compliment to you ~ I mean, he really complimented you? I'm so thankful to have a kind, considerate husband! He tries to be understanding when I struggle with inadequacy or when I feel completely overwhelmed or frustrated. I've kept several of the little notes he's left me on the kitchen table to read after he's left for work.
Here's a little bit of one: "Thanks for helping keep the house clean and the clothes washed. I understand it's hard and tiresome. You will receive rewards in Heaven for all you hard work and the results will be seen in the success of our children, by God's grace and help."
Like I stated in an earlier post, the hubs isn't one to give flowery sentiments, but when he does give a compliment, it's like I'm a flower drinking in the water of his praise ~ I bloom!
In these verses, we see the gratitude and appreciation that the Proverbs 31 woman's husband has for her. She most certainly is a crown to her husband! (Proverbs 12:4)

An Excellent Wife:
Not only is our Lady a wonderful homemaker, manager, business woman, financial wizard, and mother, but also ~ not surprisingly ~ an excellent wife as well. "In our poem of virtues, the man who has first place in her heart has the last specific word of praise for his beautiful-in-God's-eyes wife."
This husband "proudly and publicly.. lauds the woman who helps bear the burden of his every care; she is his comforter in every distress, his faithful adviser, his best friend, his unceasing joy, and his brightest crown! He who is the companion of her youth (Proverbs 2:17) has shared much of life's journey with her. And here, long after the children have "risen up" and gone out into the world, she continues has his faithful wife, doing him good all the days of her life (vs. 12)."

An Army of Virtuous Women:
This man knows his wife well, and he begins his compliment with these words: "Many daughters have done virtuously". In this phrase, he's saying that many women are noble like his wife. After all, he sits in the gate with the elders and knows the happenings of his town. There is an army of women who live in a worthy manner! Wait, an ~ army? Yes, an army! Remember, the word "virtuous" means "power of mind and power of body". Mrs. George writes, "Here the husband of the Proverbs 31 woman picks up that military image in the word virtuous. Many have done excellently. Many have done valiantly. Many have proven their worth. Many have gained riches and wealth. Many have shown great force and power."
I don't know about you, sisters, but that little word, "many" gives me great aspiration!
I've heard ~ and for a while thought ~ that this chapter of Proverbs described a culmination of many women. After all, I surmised, there's no way one woman could do all of that! But then I thought of the not-so-distant past of the American frontier. Allow me to indulge a bit.
As a child, I loved the "Little House" books by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Laura and Nellie's disputes ~ the blizzards and locusts ~ Pa's stories ~ the traveling in the wagon and setting up a new home ~ I loved it! However, as a mom reading those books to my daughters, I gained a new appreciation for Ma ~ Caroline Ingalls! Leaving family and friends behind, she willingly followed her husband into unknown territory not once, but many times! (If memory serves me correctly, they left the Big Woods in Wisconsin and eventually ended up in South Dakota!) And even though she lived in a wagon for weeks/months at a time, she did her best to help her husband, make the camp attractive, do her work joyfully, and be a loving mother to her daughters.
Read this excerpt from "Little House on the Prairie": "Ma was folding the dry clothes... [and] laid them in the wagon, and took the flowers. She admired equally the flowers that Laura gave her and the flowers that Mary gave her, and she put them together in a tin cup of water. She set them on the wagon-step to make the camp pretty." Also, Laura writes that "Ma hummed softly to herself while the iron smoothed all the wrinkles out of the little dresses. All around them, to the very edges of the world, there was nothing but grasses waving in the wind." This resilient woman helped Charles build their log cabin, (Remember how the log landed on her foot?) beat out prairie fires and packed up their home when the government told them to move out of Kansas Territory. She wasn't the only pioneer woman who did so. Many did. Many were virtuous. That means that I can be, too!

The Best of All:
Out lady's husband doesn't stop there, does he? Aren't you glad? I am! This proud and grateful husband continues with "but thou excellest them all." His precious wife is beautiful in his eyes as well! "His chorus of praise resounds as he declares: 'You surpass them all! You transcend them all! You far outdo them all! You are better than all of them!' Comparing her to the complete army of the other virtuous women in God's army, he confidently claims that she is the noblest of women."
Mrs. George states, "The OT Hebrew proclaims, 'You ascend over all [of] them.' This Hebrew wording suggests that the husband gives his blessing in genuine appreciation of his wife's actual accomplishments and activities ~ not as an act of graciousness, obligation, or well-meaning politeness. God's beautiful woman truly merits this honest praise because she is indeed the best of all!"

A Kaleidoscope of Virtues:
Mrs. George likens the Proverbs 31 woman to a kaleidoscope. She writes, "God allows you and me to view the many rich colors and glorious patterns of her multifaceted life. As we've moved from verse to verse, from virtue to virtue, as we've lifted the character of God's beautiful woman up to the light of His Holy Spirit, He has illumined the brilliance of her virtues. They have burst into an exquisite pattern and then, with a slight change of angle as we've moved to another verse, we've seen yet another splendid display of breathtaking beauty."
1. She adds honor to her husband's name and reputation. (vs. 10)
2. She contributes to his financial well-being and manages his money. (vs.11)
3. She eases his mind by doing good. (vs.11-12)
4. She provides for his needs at home. (vs. 15)
5. She increases his assets, expands his property, and plants a vineyard. (vs. 16)
6. She counsels and encourages him with her wise, kind words. (vs. 26)
7. She frees him up from worries at home so that he can serve his community. (vs. 27)
8. She raises his children in a godly manner and they serve the Lord. (vs. 28)

A Beautiful Crown:
Our Lady is "her husband's brightest ornament, and she draws all eyes to him, as one who is eminently honored and blessed. A crown is a mark of dignity and a virtuous woman brings respectability, credit, and reputation not to herself, but to her husband. Adorning and beautifying his life she is an honor to him." And she is pleased to be his crown. She "gladly gives her life behind the scenes so that her husband may be noticed and honored."
This image also offers one more message ~ she is a crown of joy. Back in OT/NT times, the bridegroom ~ if he could afford it ~ wore a gold crown. If not, he word a garland of fresh flowers. In any case, he was crowned. Mrs. George writes, "For that one glorious day, even a peasant seemed a prince as the people paid him the respect called for by the exalted rank which his crown symbolized." Fast-forward 20 years or so. The festivities are just a memory and life's ordinary. This man's wife becomes his crown. She "supplies him with the dignity due a king." She has become the symbol of honor for him ~ a crown to her husband who richly adorns his life and makes his every day a celebration! I so desire to be that beautiful crown of dignity and joy my hubs can wear daily!

Yeah, But What If...?
Maybe your husband isn't the provider, husband, father or spiritual leader God calls him to be. Look to these wise ladies as an example.
1. Hannah ~ Her husband wasn't the leader he should've been, or he would've taken care of the problem with his wives. (According to God's law, he shouldn't have had 2 wives, anyway!) There's nothing in Scripture that says anything negative about Hannah. She didn't let life's circumstances keep her from striving to be beautiful in God's eyes.
2. Abigail ~ Her husband was a mean-spirited drunk, yet Abigail was the best wife, home manager and supervisor of the servants that she could be. We recognize this because the servants came to her when the household was in danger. She saved everyone in her household from David's wrath.
3. Esther ~ Yes, she was a queen, but her husband was godless, full of rage, and an alcoholic. She still shone as a "star" ~ that's what Esther means ~ an example of humility, courage, and wisdom.
Mrs. George writes, "In light of these examples, I urge you to please look beyond your circumstances, far beyond your present difficulties, and even beyond your husband. Instead, as you gaze outward, put God's kaleidoscope of virtues up to the light of His bright hope and His shining Word and give it a turn!" He has you in mind and is "maturing you in the midst of your challenging circumstances." Remember:
1. God's grace is sufficient. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
2. God is faithful. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
3. God has His good purposes for your life. (Romans 8:28)
4. God is making you more like His Son, Jesus. (Romans 8:29)

A Checklist of Beauty:
1. As a woman ~ Do you put the power of your mind and body to work on behalf of your husband, family, and home? At the same time, is it your deepest purpose to not only do worthily, but to be a worthy woman, consistently exemplary in character?
2. As a homemaker ~ Do your provide for the needs at home? Do you carefully and attentively look over the ways of your household?
3. As a mother ~ Are you raising your husband's children to love and serve the Lord, thereby giving your husband peace of mind and strengthening his reputation in the community?
4. As a wife ~ Do you posses the "kaleidoscope of virtues" to your husband? In your honest opinion, has your husband found a virtuous woman in you, a woman who is beautiful in God's eyes? Pray that he has ~ and keep pursuing the heights of excellence!

Chapter 21 ~ A Cup of Blessing ~ Her Family

2010-02-17T10:45:00.006-06:00

Proverbs 31:28 "Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her."

I don't know about you, sister, but if my kids ever "arose up" and called me "blessed", I'd faint dead away! Usually, I can expect them to wish me a "Happy Mommy's Day" or birthday, but to actually be appreciative for no reason? I don't know what I'd do! Children naturally only care about themselves ~ they don't think of compliments unless prompted. After all, you have to remind them to say "please" and "thank you"! Mrs. George writes, "Such a display of gratitude is certainly what all moms dream of and train their children toward, but such thankfulness isn't always expressed."
Here are some interpretations of this verse:
"They rise up in the morning and, finding everything well prepared, the children express their thankfulness to her." (Hebrew text and English translations)
"Rising up meant standing up in her presence as a mark of respect."
"The children rise up as a preparatory movement in order to make an announcement, to give words of tribute in reverential honor of her." (Commentary on the OT volume 6)
Mrs. George wrote that a more realistic interpretation would be that "the Proverbs 31 woman's children grow up and go out to live in a way that brings honor and blessing and credit to her. The children's lives become the living praise of her worth and her work. The children of our Proverbs 31 woman give her life its highest reward. They bless her. They praise her. The children experience the sweet fruits of her virtues, and she experiences the sweet fruits of their lives and rejoices in them."
That's my ultimate prayer for my children ~ not that say thank you, stand when I enter a room, or give a flowery speech that sings my praises ~ but to grow up and live Godly lives. I want to bless them by praying for them, caring for them, teaching them and training them daily. Mrs. George gives 4 basic essential elements in the love of a mother who is a blessing to her family.

Essential #1: A Mother Cares
a. The gift of basics ~ We can show our love daily by giving our children the basics of food, clothing, shelter, and rest. We spend the majority of our days providing food and clothing for our loved ones by preparing meals and doing laundry. The shelter we provide is a home warm in temperature and in love. Because we don't want to be contentious or loud, (Proverbs 21:9 and 7:11) our home is a shelter where our family can rest and know peace. "Daily she extends the cup of physical care for her family."
b. The gift of time ~ It's been said that love is spelled T-I-M-E. Of course, very young children take up a lot of our time ~ feeding, rocking, diapering ~ potty-training, cleaning up their "discoveries", (like the time my youngest decorated herself and the walls with my brand-new tube of lipstick) and reading, singing, and playing. Mrs. George writes that "50 percent of a child's character and personality development takes place by age three and 75 percent by age five!" Older children need our time "as they learn to reason and become real conversationalists, as they face the challenges of middle school and high school, as they become young adults in the workplace or in college. They also need our time when they transform from "child" to "friend". "Every minute ~ indeed every second ~ we spend giving the gift of time to our children is an investment in their character and in their future."
c. The gift of long-distance love ~ Biblical Hannah is a wonderful example of this. After she left little Samuel at the temple with Eli, she traveled a day's journey every year with a new little coat she made her son. Elisabeth Elliot's mother wrote her daughter a letter a week from 1954 to 1985. Not only did she write Elisabeth, but her five other children as well! Imagine the time it took! Imagine having an intimately detailed record of your mother's love!
Essential #2: A Mother Focuses
As a Christian mother, my ultimate goal is to raise my children to love the Lord and serve Him. My assignment is to raise my child in such a way that he/she has a heart dedicated to God. I am training the next generation of Christians. Sadly, that number is growing smaller. According to recent studies, many teens who've been raised in church are "leaving their faith" by the time they enter college. Why is this so prevalent? I believe it's central reason is because of lack of care in the home. After this Bible study, I'm going to be sharing my thoughts on this somewhat "controversial" subject.
Sisters, (I'm including myself here, too) we need to take our role as mother more seriously! We have to do so much more than provide for our children physically and emotionally. We need to provide for them spiritually, too! That means we not only need to teach them "Bible stories", but how to pray, how to study the Word, how to live a Christian life.
Consider this quote from Edith Schaeffer: "We are responsible for 'handing on the flag [of faith]' and for being very careful not to drop it ~ or to drop out ~ because of our responsibility to the next generation.... To hand down truth to one more generation is one of the central commands of God." (Deuteronomy 6:4-7)
Yes, but how? You may ask. One way is to pray over your children. Another is to pray scripture. There is power and promise in the Word of God, my sisters! I also firmly believe that we should live our lives in a way that doesn't cause our little ones to stumble. Our children see us how we really are. If we put on our "spiritual" robes to go to church, but can't wait to shed them once we're home, we're causing our children to stumble by our own hypocrisy. Behaving one way for the pastor and another way at home is offending our little ones (causing them to stumble). Jesus Himself was very clear on this matter. He said "But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were downed in the depth of the sea." (Matthew 18:1-6, Mark 9:36-37 and 42) It's vital that we maintain consistency in this area!
Essential #3: A Mother Plans
As caretaker, my job is to plan the daily operations of the home. Remember, the greatest desires of our hearts simply won't happen. We must plan for them! What does this include?
a. The presence of the Lord in my home. You can't give away what you don't posses, so I must fill my heart first. "For God's presence to be obvious in my home, my homemaking, and my dealings with the family, He must be present in my own heart."
b. Passing on the faith in Jesus Christ to my children (and grandchildren someday, Lord willing!). Plan for regular church attendance, daily devotions, pray to become aware of opportunities to point my children to Jesus. Plan to pray for them regularly. Mrs. George shared how she planned bedtime rituals with her girls by using Bible books and stories to read. I like the example of Dr. James Dobson and his wife Shirley. Each week, they set aside one day to fast and pray for their children.
c. A pleasant atmosphere in the home. Planning nutritious meals, setting the table beautifully, doing housework and laundry, little surprises for a fun home life ~ plan time for these things. I want my children to recall these things when they're grown up and out on their own.
d. Progressing relationships with my children. Know what's going on in their lives. Plan on questions to ask, ways to express my love, such as little gifts to delight and deeds of kindness I can bestow upon them. Plan outings, holidays, birthdays, Christmas and Easter celebrations. (I'll be sharing these later on, too.) Plan one-on-one time with the kiddos, too. My mother wisely did so for me.
Sometimes, when I arrived home from school, my mother would be waiting, car keys in hand. My dad was often away from home on business, so Mom would say, "Hey, Shel, wanna head to the mall and then get supper somewhere?" I'll always cherish those shopping trips and dinners. I always knew my mother was someone I could talk to and share my thoughts, feelings, and opinions with. My oldest daughter is thrilled to now be included in similar outings with Mommy and Nana. Even now, at age (ahem!) 40-something, I crave that "alone time" with my mother. Whenever we visit one another, we'll make sure everyone's tucked in bed, and then we'll either stay up and talk until 3 AM or head to Sonic for a limeade. Sometimes Mom takes me shopping, sometimes we just go to Hobby Lobby and Bed Bath and Beyond to "look". Thankfully, the hubs understands and celebrates the relationship I have with my mother, so he always makes sure Mom and I have some alone time, even to the point of watching the kiddos!
e. Plan for persistence, even when the child is seemingly "grown up". Dr. Richard Mayhue likens parenting to a 100-yard football field that has a life-and-death game being played on it. He stresses for parents to "go the distance" with your child, especially between the 95-yard line and the goal at the 100 yard-line. (Those being the ages of 18 to 25-ish.) After all, in a real football game, the team endures brutal blows, scratching and clawing to gain every inch of those final five yards! Think of those final five yards for our precious children ~ 2 of their most important decisions ~ next to faith in Jesus Christ ~ is their career choice and finding a mate! Such parenting opinions like "We've taught you everything you need to know. Now go and do it!" (to your middle-schooler) ~ "Well, you're on your own now. You can drive, you're old enough to get a job, and you know what you ought to do. Good luck!" (to your 16 year-old) ~ "Don't forget to visit us once in a while!" ~ (to your newly high school graduate) ~ simply shouldn't even exist in the Christian parent's mind, much less in their vocabulary!
I know wonderful people who believe that once their child turns 18, they're "out of the house and my job's over, thank God!" May it never be so, my sisters! That teenager is still a child that needs direction, care, and concern! We must plan to encourage, assist, advise, and pray for our children, whatever their ages. "Our assignment calls for us to lock arms together with them and move forward shoulder to shoulder, inch by inch, all the way to the finish line ~ no matter what!"
Essential #4: A Mother Works
Edith Schaeffer wrote this: "Being a mother is worth fighting for, worth calling a career, worth the dignity of hard work." As we do the hard work of mothering, God will bless our efforts and help us realize our dreams for our family. So, how are we to do our work?
a. Without murmuring or complaining. (Philippians 2:14)
b. By remembering Who we're ultimately working for. (Colossians 3:23)
c. Willingly and joyfully. (Proverbs 31:13)
d. Without expecting anything in return. (Luke 6:35)
e. By remembering it's our God-given assignment!

Yeah, But What If...?
"What if they don't follow my leading? What if they don't live for God? What if they don't follow in the way I've trained for them? What if they never say thank you even seem to notice all I've done for them? What if they don't ever rise up in any kind of honor?" Mrs. George writes this: "A mother's energy and efforts must never be motivated by possible rewards." There are things God has determined for us do to ~ no matter what!
a. Love your children. (Titus 2:4)
b. Teach your children. (Proverbs 1:8)
c. Train your children. (Proverbs 22:6)
d. Discipline your children (Proverbs 29:17)
e. Care for your children. (Proverbs 31:27)
Remember, dear sisters, we're not to have faith in our own doing, but in God's! We must leave our precious ones in the hands of the Father, Who, after all, loves them even more than we do!

Wow! What a challenge as a mother! It's so intimidating and daunting! This chapter has inspired me in so many ways ~ especially the quote, "Being a mother is worth fighting for!" As Mrs. George concluded, "When it comes to mothering, there is no place for neutrality, ignorance, aloofness, or a hands-thrown-up-in-the-air "I give up" attitude! Please, dear Father, help me be the kind of mother who is a blessing to her family!

I want to close this post with the words to a song Steve Green made popular. I'd like to make the chorus my prayer as well:

Oh, may all who come behind us find us faithful.

May the fire of our devotion light their way.

May the footprints that we leave

Lead them to believe

And the lives we live inspire them to obey.

Oh, may all who come behind us find us faithful.

What Children Need

2010-02-17T10:40:00.003-06:00

Children need more than clothes on their backs,

A roof o'er their heads or a lunch in their sacks.

Children need more than satellite TV,

The latest Nintendo, and DVDs to see.

Children need more than a beautiful home,

A room full of toys, or their own cell phone.

Children need more than far-off vacations,

Amusement park rides and grand celebrations.
Though treasures we buy bring them smiles ~ it is true;

Our children need less than we might think they do.

Children need time to talk and share,

For growing is painful and not always fair.

Children need someone with listening ears

To hear how their day went and help calm their fears.

Children need space, a home where there's rest,

A place where they're needed and told, "You're the best!"

Children need hands to hold when they're scared;

Children need arms to hug them and care.

Yes, children need less than we might think they do,

Children need love ~ Your children need you.

~ Nancy Agular ~

(modified a bit by me)