I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas. I did. I really enjoyed participating in our church's Christmas Eve services. Watching the kids open their presents.
But now I am enjoying having a break from church obligations for a week. I'm enjoying spending time with my Dad, who is visiting. And since my Dad is visiting, the kids are enjoying having a grandparent around to spoil them with attention. (Which means I am spoiled. Extra time to myself while knowing my children are getting that special attention.) Dan is still on vacation, which means I get to see him practically all the time. (Good thing) :)
So for me, this week between Christmas and New Years is fully blessed. I'm past the "pressures" of Christmas and just waiting for the New Year. A time to relax with family.
That is where "Merry-Happy Time" comes in. It is past Merry Christmas, but not quite Happy New Year, yet I feel this special time should have SOME sort of expression.
So:
This week between holidays, this week of transition from 2009 - 2010, my prayer for you is that you will experience a
MERRY-HAPPY TIME :)
God's Blessings,
Britt
INTERACTIVE:
What is your favorite time of this season? Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve, Merry-Happy Time, other?
(Note - for this question you are not allowed to factor in that Christmas Day is celebrating Jesus. I'm purely talking about your personal feel-good holiday/time of the season. It could be a day or tradition. Something tangible or abstract)
Welcome to Britt's Blog. Where I "write to be real" in hope that my stories offer refreshment. So come on in and sit a spell.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas Fruit Cake
Merry Christmas!
Hey! I finally made homemade cinnamon rolls! They turned out yummy, but I have a long way to go until they are perfected and gift-giving worthy ;)
So since my rolls weren't out-of-family shareable AND the pesky fact I couldn't send you one via cyberspace anyway, I have decided to whip up a batch of Christmas Fruitcake. The kind I can share with you via the internet. Enjoy! (I probably won't post for a few days, so just like the real thing, you can nibble off small bits over the next few days). :)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22,23
Love - For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him, shall not perish, but have eternal life. - John 3:16 This is what Christmas is all about. That very first Christmas, God gave us the perfect gift of His Son. Jesus came as a baby, fully human, so that when He grew up He could bear our human sins on the cross. But because He was also fully God and perfect, death could not hold Him down and Jesus rose victorious - forever conquering death! All because a baby was born on the first Christmas....
Joy - But the angel said to them (shepherds), "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord." - Luke 2:10,11
Peace - "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace." - 1 Corinthians 14:33 (This verse in context is referring to how people within a congregation shouldn't talk over one another in a disorderly fashion) But I thought it appropriate during this season of so many "to-do" lists, shopping chaos, and scramble of places-to-be. Remember amidst all the hustle and bustle that God is a God of peace. Take a moment to just breathe and remember Christ this season. May God's peace be with you this Christmas.
Patience - Anyone else struggle with this one? I'm pretty sure we don't have it as rough as Paul did.....
Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurnce; in troubles, hardships and distresses, in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love - 2 Corinthians 6:4-6a....
O-kay. I suppose in light of that, I can be a bit more patient with my children. Or patient while God works out circumstances in a far better way than my limited mind could ever imagine! (But can it hurry up and be time to open presents?! I can't wait to see what I got....)
Kindness - And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomprable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - Ephesians 2:6-8.
Oh. I thought I at least had this fruit down. I mean, I am kind. I share a piece of gum with a bad-breathed friend. I hold the store door open for an elderly person. Many times I bite my tongue when an unkind comment is on the tip of it. But measured against the kindness of God in sending His only Son to die for me? Well, I guess it puts a whole new light on "kindness".
Goodness - Test everything. Hold on the to good. - 1 Thessalonians 5:21
Yes, there are lots of stresses this time of year. Time and schedule stress. Money stress. Extended family stress. For several there is also great sadness. Loss of loved ones this past year. (My sympathies and prayers go out to you). Family far away and unable to gather around the same table for Christmas dinner. While we probably all have something getting us down this season, I encourage us to look for the good God has placed in our lives. May you truly have a Merry Christmas.
Faithfulness - What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God's faithfulness? Not at all! - Romans 3:3 and I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that Your love stands firm forever, that You established Your faithfulness in heaven itself. - Psalms 89:1,2
I pray you personally have faith in Jesus Christ. That you believe He loved you so much he died on a cross and rose again - paying the penalty for all our sins. But even if you are reading this and haven't come to that point of trust and faith, know that God is faithful. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9
And for those of us who already believe, may we remember this verse on faithfulness, taken from the parable of the man who used his talents wisely: Matthew 25:21 - "His master replied, Well done, good and faithful servant". Oh to hear Jesus say that some day....
Gentleness - Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. - Philippians 4:5. What is gentleness? This is what comes to my mind: Gentle is opposite of harsh. Gentle is a mother holding her newborn babe. Gentle is not pushing my way around. Gentle is Daddy tenderly kissing his girl's cheek goodnight while tucking her cuddlies in around her. Gentle is a breeze of fresh love-air in a harsh world. Gentle is the King of Kings coming to mankind as a baby.
Self-Control - I don't know about you, but I really struggle with this one! Self-control in not over-eating. Disciplined self-control to exercise regularly. Self-Control in my thoughts and actions toward others. The list could go on and on. I think my problem is that I truly expect it to be Self-control. When what I need is Spirit-control. By myself I am weak, uncontrolled, and truth be told, anti-everything in this fruitcake. Fortunately, as a child of God I do have the Holy Spirit. I just need to remember to let the Holy Spirit be in control. Because I sure don't want to be like Proverbs 25:28 - Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.
Well, I hope and pray you enjoyed your Christmas fruitcake. I realize my cyber fruitcake might have been a bit dense like the real thing. Sorry. There were lots of fruit nuggets to cram in. Each ingredient alone is really a whole post - or book. Oh well. Christmas comes but once a year. If I couldn't insert a really long post today, when could I?!?
Merry Christmas! May God's blessings and love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control be yours today and always. :)
-Britt
Hey! I finally made homemade cinnamon rolls! They turned out yummy, but I have a long way to go until they are perfected and gift-giving worthy ;)
So since my rolls weren't out-of-family shareable AND the pesky fact I couldn't send you one via cyberspace anyway, I have decided to whip up a batch of Christmas Fruitcake. The kind I can share with you via the internet. Enjoy! (I probably won't post for a few days, so just like the real thing, you can nibble off small bits over the next few days). :)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22,23
Love - For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him, shall not perish, but have eternal life. - John 3:16 This is what Christmas is all about. That very first Christmas, God gave us the perfect gift of His Son. Jesus came as a baby, fully human, so that when He grew up He could bear our human sins on the cross. But because He was also fully God and perfect, death could not hold Him down and Jesus rose victorious - forever conquering death! All because a baby was born on the first Christmas....
Joy - But the angel said to them (shepherds), "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord." - Luke 2:10,11
Peace - "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace." - 1 Corinthians 14:33 (This verse in context is referring to how people within a congregation shouldn't talk over one another in a disorderly fashion) But I thought it appropriate during this season of so many "to-do" lists, shopping chaos, and scramble of places-to-be. Remember amidst all the hustle and bustle that God is a God of peace. Take a moment to just breathe and remember Christ this season. May God's peace be with you this Christmas.
Patience - Anyone else struggle with this one? I'm pretty sure we don't have it as rough as Paul did.....
Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurnce; in troubles, hardships and distresses, in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love - 2 Corinthians 6:4-6a....
O-kay. I suppose in light of that, I can be a bit more patient with my children. Or patient while God works out circumstances in a far better way than my limited mind could ever imagine! (But can it hurry up and be time to open presents?! I can't wait to see what I got....)
Kindness - And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomprable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - Ephesians 2:6-8.
Oh. I thought I at least had this fruit down. I mean, I am kind. I share a piece of gum with a bad-breathed friend. I hold the store door open for an elderly person. Many times I bite my tongue when an unkind comment is on the tip of it. But measured against the kindness of God in sending His only Son to die for me? Well, I guess it puts a whole new light on "kindness".
Goodness - Test everything. Hold on the to good. - 1 Thessalonians 5:21
Yes, there are lots of stresses this time of year. Time and schedule stress. Money stress. Extended family stress. For several there is also great sadness. Loss of loved ones this past year. (My sympathies and prayers go out to you). Family far away and unable to gather around the same table for Christmas dinner. While we probably all have something getting us down this season, I encourage us to look for the good God has placed in our lives. May you truly have a Merry Christmas.
Faithfulness - What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God's faithfulness? Not at all! - Romans 3:3 and I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that Your love stands firm forever, that You established Your faithfulness in heaven itself. - Psalms 89:1,2
I pray you personally have faith in Jesus Christ. That you believe He loved you so much he died on a cross and rose again - paying the penalty for all our sins. But even if you are reading this and haven't come to that point of trust and faith, know that God is faithful. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9
And for those of us who already believe, may we remember this verse on faithfulness, taken from the parable of the man who used his talents wisely: Matthew 25:21 - "His master replied, Well done, good and faithful servant". Oh to hear Jesus say that some day....
Gentleness - Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. - Philippians 4:5. What is gentleness? This is what comes to my mind: Gentle is opposite of harsh. Gentle is a mother holding her newborn babe. Gentle is not pushing my way around. Gentle is Daddy tenderly kissing his girl's cheek goodnight while tucking her cuddlies in around her. Gentle is a breeze of fresh love-air in a harsh world. Gentle is the King of Kings coming to mankind as a baby.
Self-Control - I don't know about you, but I really struggle with this one! Self-control in not over-eating. Disciplined self-control to exercise regularly. Self-Control in my thoughts and actions toward others. The list could go on and on. I think my problem is that I truly expect it to be Self-control. When what I need is Spirit-control. By myself I am weak, uncontrolled, and truth be told, anti-everything in this fruitcake. Fortunately, as a child of God I do have the Holy Spirit. I just need to remember to let the Holy Spirit be in control. Because I sure don't want to be like Proverbs 25:28 - Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.
Well, I hope and pray you enjoyed your Christmas fruitcake. I realize my cyber fruitcake might have been a bit dense like the real thing. Sorry. There were lots of fruit nuggets to cram in. Each ingredient alone is really a whole post - or book. Oh well. Christmas comes but once a year. If I couldn't insert a really long post today, when could I?!?
Merry Christmas! May God's blessings and love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control be yours today and always. :)
-Britt
Friday, December 18, 2009
Random Reminders
Okay,
So remember from last post that I sense God working on me again? One of the ways I know this is that my heart and brain are more in tune to the Spirit's promptings. Usually in the form of everyday, mundane, random things. The Holy Spirit will interrupt my sinful thoughts of selfishness or judgementalism with whispers of Truth.
I don't like seeing my sinful self through God's Truth mirror! I would like to go on thinking I am a good person. I would like to go on selfishly aquiring more junk to "satisfy" my covetesness (anyone find out yet if that is a word?) rather than think about starving children or homeless women or modern day slaves!
Like today. I was rinsing out 3 empty yogurt cups that had been sitting around for a few hours (for recycling). I thought how hard it was to rinse out hours-old yogurt from tiny-mouthed yogurt cups. Then I had a flashback to when several years ago, as a then Mom of one, I judged a single Mom of three for daring to bring non-rinsed Yoplait yogurt lids for the church collection! (Yoplait "save lids to save lives") Couldn't she take the time to rinse?!
Yep. I felt a pang of guilt. I am judgemental.
And earlier in the day I was daydreaming about someday becoming a famous author and what I could spend all my gobbs of money on. Suddenly my spending was rudely interrupted by thoughts of how much my extra income could benefiit people in need! (It doesn't matter this was daydream money - it was still my money!) (yah, yah, I know - it's all God's money - different topic for another day)
You want to know what Bible story God has been laying on my heart? (if not - don't read further ;)
Look up Luke 12:15-21 (Use the side bar gadget if you don't have a Bible handy)
I've been wanting bigger and biggerhouse barns. I need more space for more stuff.
Like that Diamond Rio song, "Stuff"
Stuff (stuff) stack it on stack it on up
(Stuff) never gonna ever get enough (stuff)
Oh it's treasure till it's mine then it ain't worth a dime
It's stuff (stuff) spreading like weeds
Dragging me under in an endless sea of stuff
(Stuff) There ain't no end
Got to get a bigger place so I can move in
More stuff
Well, even though I still would like some more stuff, I sure don't want to end up like Jesus' parable rich man!
Okay, I think I've wandered enough for this posting. What was the point?
Oh yah - The Holy Spirit sure is good at random reminders of how to live this whole Christian life thing. I just need to take the time to listen.... and then take the time to look in God's Truth mirror.
For as painful as it may be, a richer spiritual life lies on the other side of the looking glass.
Interactive:
Do you have any stories of how the Holy Spirit has used everyday, mundane, random things to prick your conscience?
So remember from last post that I sense God working on me again? One of the ways I know this is that my heart and brain are more in tune to the Spirit's promptings. Usually in the form of everyday, mundane, random things. The Holy Spirit will interrupt my sinful thoughts of selfishness or judgementalism with whispers of Truth.
I don't like seeing my sinful self through God's Truth mirror! I would like to go on thinking I am a good person. I would like to go on selfishly aquiring more junk to "satisfy" my covetesness (anyone find out yet if that is a word?) rather than think about starving children or homeless women or modern day slaves!
Like today. I was rinsing out 3 empty yogurt cups that had been sitting around for a few hours (for recycling). I thought how hard it was to rinse out hours-old yogurt from tiny-mouthed yogurt cups. Then I had a flashback to when several years ago, as a then Mom of one, I judged a single Mom of three for daring to bring non-rinsed Yoplait yogurt lids for the church collection! (Yoplait "save lids to save lives") Couldn't she take the time to rinse?!
Yep. I felt a pang of guilt. I am judgemental.
And earlier in the day I was daydreaming about someday becoming a famous author and what I could spend all my gobbs of money on. Suddenly my spending was rudely interrupted by thoughts of how much my extra income could benefiit people in need! (It doesn't matter this was daydream money - it was still my money!) (yah, yah, I know - it's all God's money - different topic for another day)
You want to know what Bible story God has been laying on my heart? (if not - don't read further ;)
Look up Luke 12:15-21 (Use the side bar gadget if you don't have a Bible handy)
I've been wanting bigger and bigger
Like that Diamond Rio song, "Stuff"
Stuff (stuff) stack it on stack it on up
(Stuff) never gonna ever get enough (stuff)
Oh it's treasure till it's mine then it ain't worth a dime
It's stuff (stuff) spreading like weeds
Dragging me under in an endless sea of stuff
(Stuff) There ain't no end
Got to get a bigger place so I can move in
More stuff
Well, even though I still would like some more stuff, I sure don't want to end up like Jesus' parable rich man!
Okay, I think I've wandered enough for this posting. What was the point?
Oh yah - The Holy Spirit sure is good at random reminders of how to live this whole Christian life thing. I just need to take the time to listen.... and then take the time to look in God's Truth mirror.
For as painful as it may be, a richer spiritual life lies on the other side of the looking glass.
Interactive:
Do you have any stories of how the Holy Spirit has used everyday, mundane, random things to prick your conscience?
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Spiritual Teeth Cleaning
So this morning I was thinking I needed to update the blog, but nothing came to mind. Then throughout the day, God popped ideas into my brain. Now to decide which one to choose!
Remember back a couple weeks ago when I challenged myself to read the Bible and spend time in prayer every M-F before breakfast? Update: God is faithful and every day, except Thanksgiving, that happened.
I needed it to happen. I had been in a bit of a spiritual rut. My lack of communication with God was rearing its ugly head in the form of covetesness (word?). Basically, I wasn't happy with what I had and I wanted more. (I still struggle with this, mind you, but the covet monster lost its grip on my every waking thought.)
Well, Praise God, I didn't even realize He kept kicking me out of bed in the morning well into December!
And even though the record isn't spotless, at least there is a record.
Anyway, this brings me to my post idea:
Can you relate to whenyou are God is refreshing your relationship with Him? You are a little rusty and have somehow managed to re-cling to old ways of living or old ways of thinking. You know God wants to clean off that muck and form an even deeper bond, but you are leary?
It's like going to the dentist. I don't want to sit in that chair, have my teeth/gums poked and proded, have grit ground into my mouth and have a stranger run string through my teeth! Yet afterwards I feel all nice and clean and shiny. (granted, this analogy only applies for teeth cleaning. I believe God would perform miraculous pain-free root canals.)
Well, that is where I am now. (No, not the dentist, silly) Experiencing spiritual teeth-cleaning. Both eagerly awaiting it, and dreading it at the same time. I know I will love, love, love the "end" (spiritual growth is life long process) result, but I dread what may be reaquired of me. Both now and the future.
Be on the lookout later this week for those other "ideas".
And FYI - The whole "dentist" thing? Wasn't even one of them. God literally popped that one in as I was typing. Wow! See? God is working on my spontanaity! (I'm a planner) :)
Interactive:
Am I alone in dreading the dentist? (Literal or Spiritual - take your pick) (ha ha - "pick" - I'm punny)
Remember back a couple weeks ago when I challenged myself to read the Bible and spend time in prayer every M-F before breakfast? Update: God is faithful and every day, except Thanksgiving, that happened.
I needed it to happen. I had been in a bit of a spiritual rut. My lack of communication with God was rearing its ugly head in the form of covetesness (word?). Basically, I wasn't happy with what I had and I wanted more. (I still struggle with this, mind you, but the covet monster lost its grip on my every waking thought.)
Well, Praise God, I didn't even realize He kept kicking me out of bed in the morning well into December!
And even though the record isn't spotless, at least there is a record.
Anyway, this brings me to my post idea:
Can you relate to when
It's like going to the dentist. I don't want to sit in that chair, have my teeth/gums poked and proded, have grit ground into my mouth and have a stranger run string through my teeth! Yet afterwards I feel all nice and clean and shiny. (granted, this analogy only applies for teeth cleaning. I believe God would perform miraculous pain-free root canals.)
Well, that is where I am now. (No, not the dentist, silly) Experiencing spiritual teeth-cleaning. Both eagerly awaiting it, and dreading it at the same time. I know I will love, love, love the "end" (spiritual growth is life long process) result, but I dread what may be reaquired of me. Both now and the future.
Be on the lookout later this week for those other "ideas".
And FYI - The whole "dentist" thing? Wasn't even one of them. God literally popped that one in as I was typing. Wow! See? God is working on my spontanaity! (I'm a planner) :)
Interactive:
Am I alone in dreading the dentist? (Literal or Spiritual - take your pick) (ha ha - "pick" - I'm punny)
Saturday, December 12, 2009
New Links
If you share a passion for Homeschooling, Food, or Writing, check out the new links at the top of this blog.
They are still blogs in progress, but I have recently updated "Homeschooling".
I may add other blog links in the future, but I think these 3 are enough to launch for now! ;)
Enjoy!
PS - Have you checked out my sidebar gadgets? Beauty Tip of the Day, Bible Reader (read what is playing or type reference you wish to read), and Funny Points to Ponder (comic relief).
ALSO - please click on the "The Hunger Site" icon in the top left corner. It is quick and painless. Just by clicking you provide over 1 cup of food to a starving child! And you can do it every time you visit this blog! Thanks :)
They are still blogs in progress, but I have recently updated "Homeschooling".
I may add other blog links in the future, but I think these 3 are enough to launch for now! ;)
Enjoy!
PS - Have you checked out my sidebar gadgets? Beauty Tip of the Day, Bible Reader (read what is playing or type reference you wish to read), and Funny Points to Ponder (comic relief).
ALSO - please click on the "The Hunger Site" icon in the top left corner. It is quick and painless. Just by clicking you provide over 1 cup of food to a starving child! And you can do it every time you visit this blog! Thanks :)
Friday, December 11, 2009
Top 5 - Holiday Foods
Ok, there are two things compelling me to write this post:
1) It is FRIDAY!
2) Within a 24 hour period, two different people have mentioned the word "cinnamon roll" (thank you, Ping and Dan)
So without further ado, Here is my list of favorite holiday treats.
1) My Grandma Werner's Danish Puff (almond flavored pastry)(1 thing of hers that, thankfully, I can make)
2) Christmas morning traditional breakfast of Grapefruit and Cherry Turnovers (yes, I know that is an odd combo, but it's a blend of 2 families and the kids love it!)
3) Cinnamon Rolls (My Mom's caramel ones)
4) Our annual Christmas party food (summer sausage /cheese/crackers and all the candies - Choc Cherries and MMs)
5) Chic-fil-A - any (Ok that last one is for anytime, but I thought maybe for Christmas someone could figure out a way to mail me some!) ;)
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP 5 HOLIDAY FOODS YOU LOOK FORWARD TO?
P.S. - Prayer today is needed. I'm thinking about sneaking in a little shopping this afternoon before the weekend super-crazy rush. I will be hitting the Christian bookstore and Barnes and Noble. (with kids)
You know how some women should not enter a shoe store or home decor store?
Yah - for me it is a book store. So the prayers are for me to not overspend today :) Thanks!
1) It is FRIDAY!
2) Within a 24 hour period, two different people have mentioned the word "cinnamon roll" (thank you, Ping and Dan)
So without further ado, Here is my list of favorite holiday treats.
1) My Grandma Werner's Danish Puff (almond flavored pastry)(1 thing of hers that, thankfully, I can make)
2) Christmas morning traditional breakfast of Grapefruit and Cherry Turnovers (yes, I know that is an odd combo, but it's a blend of 2 families and the kids love it!)
3) Cinnamon Rolls (My Mom's caramel ones)
4) Our annual Christmas party food (summer sausage /cheese/crackers and all the candies - Choc Cherries and MMs)
5) Chic-fil-A - any (Ok that last one is for anytime, but I thought maybe for Christmas someone could figure out a way to mail me some!) ;)
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP 5 HOLIDAY FOODS YOU LOOK FORWARD TO?
P.S. - Prayer today is needed. I'm thinking about sneaking in a little shopping this afternoon before the weekend super-crazy rush. I will be hitting the Christian bookstore and Barnes and Noble. (with kids)
You know how some women should not enter a shoe store or home decor store?
Yah - for me it is a book store. So the prayers are for me to not overspend today :) Thanks!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tis the Season
Tis the Season of shopping
from black Friday not stopping
until Christmas Eve
When finally we breathe
And we muse, "Oh Joy"
What a deal on that last toy.
One last time we check our mail
But sadly to no avail,
Dear friends from Atlanta
Forgot about Santa
And no gifts from them arrive...
Oh dear, we forgot cousin Clive!
Will what we bought be enough?
Will the turkey be tough?
Will I gain five pounds, maybe eight?
Must I wear the sweater I hate?
All these questions we ponder
But seldom stop to wonder.....
At the wonder of HIS birth
The whole reason for myrth
Why we even buy gifts
Why we even make lists
Why the 25th is special - a holiday
Maybe I should take a moment and pray
Father in heaven, thank You for,
the money I have to go to the store,
For all of my family - near and far,
Even ones not sending a card.
For sending your Son
to be the One
Who came on Christmas morn' .....
A Savior is born!
Merry Christmas Season!
Enjoy the shopping and parties and time with family and friends!
I'm just trying to remember the true reason behind why I do all this extra stuff in the first place!
(So I keep my priorities straight ... and keep my sanity!)
Interactive:
What is a favorite Christmas tradition you have?
or
What is the most stressful portion of the season for you?
from black Friday not stopping
until Christmas Eve
When finally we breathe
And we muse, "Oh Joy"
What a deal on that last toy.
One last time we check our mail
But sadly to no avail,
Dear friends from Atlanta
Forgot about Santa
And no gifts from them arrive...
Oh dear, we forgot cousin Clive!
Will what we bought be enough?
Will the turkey be tough?
Will I gain five pounds, maybe eight?
Must I wear the sweater I hate?
All these questions we ponder
But seldom stop to wonder.....
At the wonder of HIS birth
The whole reason for myrth
Why we even buy gifts
Why we even make lists
Why the 25th is special - a holiday
Maybe I should take a moment and pray
Father in heaven, thank You for,
the money I have to go to the store,
For all of my family - near and far,
Even ones not sending a card.
For sending your Son
to be the One
Who came on Christmas morn' .....
A Savior is born!
Merry Christmas Season!
Enjoy the shopping and parties and time with family and friends!
I'm just trying to remember the true reason behind why I do all this extra stuff in the first place!
(So I keep my priorities straight ... and keep my sanity!)
Interactive:
What is a favorite Christmas tradition you have?
or
What is the most stressful portion of the season for you?
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Bad Mom???
Last night I let my children stay up until midnight, watching movies and eating junk food.
Today I let them eat as much candy as they wanted for "lunch".
Am I a bad Mom?
Before you judge me, let me explain:
Dan and I host a couples Christmas party every year. On that evening, we let our kids have their own party upstairs with goodies. They get to stay up as long as they are being good.
Another annual tradition is getting together with friends to decorate graham cracker houses with candy.
It just so happened these 2 traditions fell back to back this year.
So no, I do not normally let my children stay up until midnight or eat as much candy as they want.
This scenario brings a couple of thoughts to mind.
1) It would be really easy for someone to read the first two sentences of this post and judge me as a bad Mom. It made me think, how often am I judgemental of other Moms based on what I see at first glance? Or on what she may allow her children to do that is different from what I do as a Mom? Heaven forbid another Mom sets different bedtimes or food choice allowances or TV watching times from my holy standard!
Lord help me not be so judgemental. May I look at the plank of bad Mom moments in my own eye before judging the specs in another Mother's eye! May I be quicker to offer genuine assistance and support to other moms, rather than condemning thoughts. Amen.
Interactive Segment:
2) I was curious what Christmas traditions you ladies may have with your kids?
(Especially if they involve something that could be considered "bad Mom") :)
Today I let them eat as much candy as they wanted for "lunch".
Am I a bad Mom?
Before you judge me, let me explain:
Dan and I host a couples Christmas party every year. On that evening, we let our kids have their own party upstairs with goodies. They get to stay up as long as they are being good.
Another annual tradition is getting together with friends to decorate graham cracker houses with candy.
It just so happened these 2 traditions fell back to back this year.
So no, I do not normally let my children stay up until midnight or eat as much candy as they want.
This scenario brings a couple of thoughts to mind.
1) It would be really easy for someone to read the first two sentences of this post and judge me as a bad Mom. It made me think, how often am I judgemental of other Moms based on what I see at first glance? Or on what she may allow her children to do that is different from what I do as a Mom? Heaven forbid another Mom sets different bedtimes or food choice allowances or TV watching times from my holy standard!
Lord help me not be so judgemental. May I look at the plank of bad Mom moments in my own eye before judging the specs in another Mother's eye! May I be quicker to offer genuine assistance and support to other moms, rather than condemning thoughts. Amen.
Interactive Segment:
2) I was curious what Christmas traditions you ladies may have with your kids?
(Especially if they involve something that could be considered "bad Mom") :)
Monday, November 30, 2009
Back to Real Life
I wasn't looking forward to today. Sure, it is busy with homeschooling two children and going to Awanas tonight, but nothing bad is happening. It's just a Monday. A Monday after a four day weekend.
So once again, I found myself praying for the Lord to get me through today. And you know what? He is faithful. Today is shaping up to be a pretty good day.
Of course, I would much rather Dan still be home from work, still eating a feast prepared by others, still playing games with good friends, still sleeping in, and still taking a break from teaching.
But that would not be real life. The majority of real life is entrenched in daily routines. Routines that include Mondays and waking up before 8:00am.
This Thanksgiving it was easy to thank God for the blessings in my life. Hello! It was Thanksgiving! I couldn't turn on the radio, read a blog, or talk to family without hearing about thankfulness. I think I finally got the lesson God was trying to reteach me.
Be Thankful for everything and in all circumstances. (Remember I Thess. 5:16-18)?
I'm just wondering if I'll remember that lesson in the real life day to day routines. I pray so.
And FYI - I missed my Bible/Prayer time on Thanksgiving day, but other than that, God is faithfuly waking me up early every M-F so far!
Interaction:
What is your daily (or weekly) routine look like?
And P.S. - I'm going to try putting up more "fun" stuff. Like Quote of the day, or recipies, or ....
What would you like to see on this blog that would benefit you?
So once again, I found myself praying for the Lord to get me through today. And you know what? He is faithful. Today is shaping up to be a pretty good day.
Of course, I would much rather Dan still be home from work, still eating a feast prepared by others, still playing games with good friends, still sleeping in, and still taking a break from teaching.
But that would not be real life. The majority of real life is entrenched in daily routines. Routines that include Mondays and waking up before 8:00am.
This Thanksgiving it was easy to thank God for the blessings in my life. Hello! It was Thanksgiving! I couldn't turn on the radio, read a blog, or talk to family without hearing about thankfulness. I think I finally got the lesson God was trying to reteach me.
Be Thankful for everything and in all circumstances. (Remember I Thess. 5:16-18)?
I'm just wondering if I'll remember that lesson in the real life day to day routines. I pray so.
And FYI - I missed my Bible/Prayer time on Thanksgiving day, but other than that, God is faithfuly waking me up early every M-F so far!
Interaction:
What is your daily (or weekly) routine look like?
And P.S. - I'm going to try putting up more "fun" stuff. Like Quote of the day, or recipies, or ....
What would you like to see on this blog that would benefit you?
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving!
I pray this post finds you all with family and/or friends, celebrating what God has given you.
Aware and thankful for all of His blessings in your life.
As preparation for Thanksgiving, this morning I read the following two passages to my children during homeschool: (NIV)
Psalm 107:1 - Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.
and
I Thess. 5:16-18 - Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Once again, as I was explaining something spiritual to my children, God was speaking to me out of my own mouth ;)
God reminded me to be thankful for what I already have and that He is good. Period.
But He pushed a little further.
Did you catch in I Thess. 5:18 where it says to give thanks in all circumstances? Yes, I should be thankful for a new digital piano or accompishing everything on my to-do list for the day. But do I really have to thank God as I clean the toilet? Or thank Him that I have been in my <1400> doesn't go according to plan? Will I still be joyful and give thanks?
So while this Thanksgiving I am most certainly thanking God for the blessings in my life, with the Lord's help, I'll also start thanking Him is all circumstances. Like when I'm cleaning my toilets in my smaller-than-dream-home. (First of all because God commands it, but also, a larger home would have more toilets to cleam. And 1400 sq. feet with indoor plumbing is way better than most people have in this world).
So my question for this holiday is: What are you thankful for?
I pray this post finds you all with family and/or friends, celebrating what God has given you.
Aware and thankful for all of His blessings in your life.
As preparation for Thanksgiving, this morning I read the following two passages to my children during homeschool: (NIV)
Psalm 107:1 - Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.
and
I Thess. 5:16-18 - Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Once again, as I was explaining something spiritual to my children, God was speaking to me out of my own mouth ;)
God reminded me to be thankful for what I already have and that He is good. Period.
But He pushed a little further.
Did you catch in I Thess. 5:18 where it says to give thanks in all circumstances? Yes, I should be thankful for a new digital piano or accompishing everything on my to-do list for the day. But do I really have to thank God as I clean the toilet? Or thank Him that I have been in my <1400> doesn't go according to plan? Will I still be joyful and give thanks?
So while this Thanksgiving I am most certainly thanking God for the blessings in my life, with the Lord's help, I'll also start thanking Him is all circumstances. Like when I'm cleaning my toilets in my smaller-than-dream-home. (First of all because God commands it, but also, a larger home would have more toilets to cleam. And 1400 sq. feet with indoor plumbing is way better than most people have in this world).
So my question for this holiday is: What are you thankful for?
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Take 5 - Drinks
In honor of it being Saturday morning, I am doing a light and easy post :)
Every once and awhile I will post a Top 5 Survey of random topics.
Today's top five survey is...
What are your top five favorite drinks?
Mine:
1) Water
2) Mojito
3) Blackstone Merlot
4) Cherry Coke (the real thing with grenadine and a long stemmed cherry)
5) Mocha with a shot of english toffee (iced or hot)
(And if you have to cheat, like I am going to because I love drinks, just add number 6 - but no more than 6!) ;)
6) fresh squeezed, tart lemonade
Every once and awhile I will post a Top 5 Survey of random topics.
Today's top five survey is...
What are your top five favorite drinks?
Mine:
1) Water
2) Mojito
3) Blackstone Merlot
4) Cherry Coke (the real thing with grenadine and a long stemmed cherry)
5) Mocha with a shot of english toffee (iced or hot)
(And if you have to cheat, like I am going to because I love drinks, just add number 6 - but no more than 6!) ;)
6) fresh squeezed, tart lemonade
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Link to free download of Pure Pleasure, by Gary Thomas
If you would like a free downloadable copy of the book, Pure Pleasure, written by Gary Thomas, please scroll down to my Links to Look At section.
The following synopsis is taken from Gary's website:
Is your Christian walk characterized more by guilt and sacrifice, rather than pleasure and freedom? Gary Thomas asserts that pleasure is a powerful force designed to feed our relationships, help protect our spiritual integrity, and bring delight to our heavenly Father.
In this liberating book, Gary will equip you to:
•Enjoy God with a new sense of freedom and delight.
•Overcome temptation by replacing counterfeit diversions with true pleasure.
•Feel the excitement of bringing joy to your family and friends.
•Discover and enjoy new activities that renew your soul.
•Experience a deeper awareness of God’s goodness in your life.
Hmmmm, does any of that ring a bell with what has been on my mind/posts lately?
Don't be surprised if I quote from Pure Pleasure sometime soon! ;)
Enjoy the read.
The following synopsis is taken from Gary's website:
Is your Christian walk characterized more by guilt and sacrifice, rather than pleasure and freedom? Gary Thomas asserts that pleasure is a powerful force designed to feed our relationships, help protect our spiritual integrity, and bring delight to our heavenly Father.
In this liberating book, Gary will equip you to:
•Enjoy God with a new sense of freedom and delight.
•Overcome temptation by replacing counterfeit diversions with true pleasure.
•Feel the excitement of bringing joy to your family and friends.
•Discover and enjoy new activities that renew your soul.
•Experience a deeper awareness of God’s goodness in your life.
Hmmmm, does any of that ring a bell with what has been on my mind/posts lately?
Don't be surprised if I quote from Pure Pleasure sometime soon! ;)
Enjoy the read.
Pay Attention!
Have I mentioned that I am a homeschooling Mom?
Yep, my son is a second grader and my daughter is in kindergarten.
I often find myself telling them to "pay attention!" They play with their pencils instead of writing information on their fill-in-the-blank worksheet. Or they look everywhere else in the room but the whiteboard. Or make goofy noises instead of listening to my lesson.
Yesterday morning during my quiet time (Yay! I'm currently on day 4 and counting, thank You, Lord!)I wondered if God ever wants to shout down at me "pay attention"!
I mean, really. I have very good intentions about praying really deep about many things, only to suddenly find myself thinking "what am I going to fix for supper tonight?"
Or I will be reading a passage of scripture and realize that I haven't a clue what I just read.
Maybe I can blame it on adjusting to the new early morning routine, but I dont' think so.
My mind wanders.
I really have no tips or pointers today. Just pointing out that I am like a 7 and 5 year old. Which probably comes as no surprise to those who know me :)
Interaction:
How do you stay focused during your quiet time? Is it just me? How well do you pay attention?
(Let me know please...... I need to know for my kids. ;)
Yep, my son is a second grader and my daughter is in kindergarten.
I often find myself telling them to "pay attention!" They play with their pencils instead of writing information on their fill-in-the-blank worksheet. Or they look everywhere else in the room but the whiteboard. Or make goofy noises instead of listening to my lesson.
Yesterday morning during my quiet time (Yay! I'm currently on day 4 and counting, thank You, Lord!)I wondered if God ever wants to shout down at me "pay attention"!
I mean, really. I have very good intentions about praying really deep about many things, only to suddenly find myself thinking "what am I going to fix for supper tonight?"
Or I will be reading a passage of scripture and realize that I haven't a clue what I just read.
Maybe I can blame it on adjusting to the new early morning routine, but I dont' think so.
My mind wanders.
I really have no tips or pointers today. Just pointing out that I am like a 7 and 5 year old. Which probably comes as no surprise to those who know me :)
Interaction:
How do you stay focused during your quiet time? Is it just me? How well do you pay attention?
(Let me know please...... I need to know for my kids. ;)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
In Tune
It seems God has been chipping away at my selfish, complaining attitude lately. From reading author Marla Taviano's blog post on selfishness/grumbling, to having a discussion with my son about his bad attitude. I listened to myself explain to him that even if bad things happen to us, we are in control of our attitude and reactions. We should focus on the good, not the bad. How prayer can help us turn our day around. (Yes, I distinctly felt God tugging my ear and saying "Hey! Pay attention to the words coming out of your own mouth!") :)
And while my selfish/grumbling attitude is a whole post unto itself, I wanted to grasp for the goodness of God this morning.
Do you know that God blesses us beyond what we deserve? I mean, besides the fact He sent His Son Jesus (John 3:16) so that we have the free gift of life. (Romans 6:23)
Do I believe God blesses me, or am I too busy worrying about what I don't have to see what God has already given me? As I was thinking about this post and then flipped open my Bible to read this morning, this is what the Lord had planned for me to read:
Genesis 22: 15-18 - in summation, it is God telling Abraham that he will be blessed and through his offspring, the whole world would be blessed. (This came after Abraham was obedient to go up and offer a sacrifice to God, even when he had no lamb and thought he would have to offer his only son Isaac. Turned out to be a test of faith and God provided the sacrificial ram on the mountain top.)
Oswald Chambers quote: God's revelation of himself to me is determined by my character, not by God's character.
I love that quote. God's Goodness is there. He loves us and wants to give us blessings (physical and spiritual), but too often I am bogged down in my selfish pity party to recognize them.
I'll give you an example how God totally blessed me beyond what I thought possible at this time.
I have always wanted to learn how to play piano. Therefore, I really want our kids to take piano lessons. (I know, projecting my lost childhood on my children) Anyway, we do not have a large house that could hold a grand piano, nor do we have several thousand dollars to spend on one. So in my limited thinking, I figured we would settle for a keyboard that would at least get the kids through 1-2 years of lessons. The basics. But God in His goodness had a bigger idea!
There was a piano clearance sale going on this past weekend. I just happened to see the ad in junk mail and Dan agreed to check it out. We ended up coming home the proud new owners of a digital piano. Basically this means its the size of a keyboard, but has all 88 keys and plays like a piano (touch sensitive keys and sustain peddle). And was amazingly within our budget.
Wow! Thank you God!
While God doesn't choose to bless me with pianos everyday, His goodness is still there everyday.
Like yesterday. Day one of getting up and reading my Bible before breakfast. I was not looking forward to the busy day full of obligations and a to-do list. But you know what? God is faithful and God is good. I managed to get done what needed done and spend some alone time with each of my 3 children. I know that was a blessing from God, because I haven't had a day so peacefully productive in a long while.
So, with a new piano from God as reminder, I'm getting my attitude in tune.
Thank you God for Your goodness. Thank you for blessing me with more than what I thought I could even have!
Interaction:
Are you looking for God's goodness in your life? What has He given/done for you lately?
And while my selfish/grumbling attitude is a whole post unto itself, I wanted to grasp for the goodness of God this morning.
Do you know that God blesses us beyond what we deserve? I mean, besides the fact He sent His Son Jesus (John 3:16) so that we have the free gift of life. (Romans 6:23)
Do I believe God blesses me, or am I too busy worrying about what I don't have to see what God has already given me? As I was thinking about this post and then flipped open my Bible to read this morning, this is what the Lord had planned for me to read:
Genesis 22: 15-18 - in summation, it is God telling Abraham that he will be blessed and through his offspring, the whole world would be blessed. (This came after Abraham was obedient to go up and offer a sacrifice to God, even when he had no lamb and thought he would have to offer his only son Isaac. Turned out to be a test of faith and God provided the sacrificial ram on the mountain top.)
Oswald Chambers quote: God's revelation of himself to me is determined by my character, not by God's character.
I love that quote. God's Goodness is there. He loves us and wants to give us blessings (physical and spiritual), but too often I am bogged down in my selfish pity party to recognize them.
I'll give you an example how God totally blessed me beyond what I thought possible at this time.
I have always wanted to learn how to play piano. Therefore, I really want our kids to take piano lessons. (I know, projecting my lost childhood on my children) Anyway, we do not have a large house that could hold a grand piano, nor do we have several thousand dollars to spend on one. So in my limited thinking, I figured we would settle for a keyboard that would at least get the kids through 1-2 years of lessons. The basics. But God in His goodness had a bigger idea!
There was a piano clearance sale going on this past weekend. I just happened to see the ad in junk mail and Dan agreed to check it out. We ended up coming home the proud new owners of a digital piano. Basically this means its the size of a keyboard, but has all 88 keys and plays like a piano (touch sensitive keys and sustain peddle). And was amazingly within our budget.
Wow! Thank you God!
While God doesn't choose to bless me with pianos everyday, His goodness is still there everyday.
Like yesterday. Day one of getting up and reading my Bible before breakfast. I was not looking forward to the busy day full of obligations and a to-do list. But you know what? God is faithful and God is good. I managed to get done what needed done and spend some alone time with each of my 3 children. I know that was a blessing from God, because I haven't had a day so peacefully productive in a long while.
So, with a new piano from God as reminder, I'm getting my attitude in tune.
Thank you God for Your goodness. Thank you for blessing me with more than what I thought I could even have!
Interaction:
Are you looking for God's goodness in your life? What has He given/done for you lately?
Saturday, November 14, 2009
False Start
So I've added Me Time back on the list of things to do. Great. One more thing to squeeze in. Totally worth it, but there are only 24 hours in a day/7 days a week. How am I going to fit it all in? Get everything done? And stay sane.
I'll tell you the secret. The one thing I know always works, but yet I neglet to do it on a regular basis:
Start my day off with God.
That simple. I know it sounds counter-intuitive. Really, Britt? One more thing to add to my list? Something else to take up precious time? I barely have time to shower as it is!
Bear with me here. When I start my day off reading scripture, I am reminded of God's goodness, His unfailing love, His commandments (like holding my tongue and being patient and serving others and....), and His mercy for when I fail to uphold those commandments. Basically, I am reminded that I am His child and that He is omnipotent and in control. Did you catch that? HE is in control - Not me.
When I pour out my heart in prayer, I willingly give back that control to my heavenly Father. I ask for His grace (undeserved goodness) and power to accomplish my to-do list. To survive my day and be productive. All while being supernaturally patient with my children. :)
Here I would like to pause and talk a bit more about that all important to-do list. I think one of the reasons we feel overwhelmed by that list is because it is too busy or out of whack. Is dusting the blinds, cleaning the oven, and wiping down my baseboards more important than playing a game with my children? Sometimes it is. I recently had to make time to clean the oven because bacon grease spilled on the coils and smoked terribly whenever turned on. But other times, maybe God would rather I read a book to my four year old than tell her "Not now, sweatheart, Mama has to clean this window." I want my house to be (reasonably) clean, but if every time my daughter wants attention I explain I can't because I'm cleaning, what does that tell her about her worth? That Mom values a clean house over her?
Or what about the length of my to-do list? Do I or my children really need to be involved in all those activities? Yes, they may all be good activities, noble activities, important activites. But maybe it is time I trim down to the best activities. The ones that God wants me and my family to be involved in for this season in our lives. Maybe next year or in 5 years I can add in other activites. (I personally do not like this concept. I think I should be able to do all my wonderful ideas now, but I'm working on it, well - God is working on me, actually)
Now for the connection. When I start my day off with Bible and Prayer time, God supernaturally realigns my to-do list to match HIS list for me that day. Then, when I accomplish His list, I can rest my head at night knowing I got *done* what needed done. Maybe it was cleaning the entire house from top to bottom. Maybe it was spending all morning playing with my children, or making time for a hurting friend, or watching a movie with my husband.
And maybe, sometimes, it miraculously is a little bit of all those things!
So my challenge to you is to not have false starts to your day. Make time in the morning to spend time with God. Your whole day will be blessed. It really does work, but please don't take my word for it. I'll leave you with some scripture references - please look them up. Also, enjoy this quote from a great man of God:
Get into the habit of dealing with God about everything. Unless in the first waking moment of the day you learn to fling the door wide back and let God in, you will work on a wrong level all day; but swing the door wide open and pray to your Father in secret, and every public thing will be stamped with the presence of God. - Oswald Chambers
Scripture references:
* Psalm 5:2,3
* Proverbs 3:5,6
* Proverbs 16:3
* Proverbs 19:21
And my prayer for you? * Ephesians 3: 16 - 20
Interaction:
I am tired of false starts resulting in stressed out days.
I'm challenging myself to read the Bible and pray Monday-Friday mornings for the rest of November. No burden of a specific time requirement on this, just that I spend some time in the Word and prayer before breakfast. Will you hold me accountable? Will you join me?
Thursday, November 12, 2009
"Me Time" Follow Up
Thanks to those of you who repsonded with what relaxes you.
What I would like to discuss, though, are the following two comments:
1) You must have the support of your husband to make me time.
Absolutely.
Lord willing, your (general term to all reading this) husband loves you and wants what is best for you. And that means having some relaxing time. Just you time. If you don't, you are bound to get all tightened up - only to come unraveled on your spouse, your children, and/or your friends (or go crazy). It really is in his best interest to help you make time to relax.
And what if your husband's love language is acts of service? (something more "to do") He likes the dishes done and laundry put away and homecooked meals? By all means, try demonstrating your love of him by doing these things on a regular basis.
But if what speaks love to you is having 1 night a week that is pizza on paper plates night so there's no supper prep or clean up so you can scrapbook .... well, then out of love, he should be willing to accept that 1 night a week there will not be a 5 course meal. (please note that is exagerated. I personally only prepare 4 course meals - whle wearing my pearl necklace and high heels ;)
Or perhaps after talking with your husband you agree that twice a month, instead of doing housework that day, you will spend all day sewing. Please expect the house to be a mess that day, honey.
Make sense?
2) .....what happens if you've actually lost yourself.?........What if you've forgotten what it is that rejuvinates you?
Wow. Very honest. Thanks for sharing this.
I think we as women can so easily get caught up in making sure our spouse and children are happy, that we forget what makes us happy.
(Does it truly make me happy to go on a play date to McDonalds? No. Fun, and better than cleaning my toilets at home, but not relaxing or rejuvenating)
My advice if you have forgotten what rejuvenates you is:
First: Think back to pre-married / pre-kids days. I know that seems an eternity ago, but stretch your brain and try. What did you do if you had the afternoon off work? If you were feeling down, what did you do to cheer yourself up? What activity gave you the warm-fuzzies for hours just thinking about how much fun you had?
Second: What are your current interests? What do you like to talk about with your friends? Is there something you always thought would be fun to try, but keep pushing it off because you don't have time? (learning a musical instrument? taking karate? Taking a cooking class? Learning to crochet? Writing a book? mountain biking? video games?)
And then? Discuss with your spouse ways to re/introduce that "thing" into your current life.
You know what?
I don't truly think that remembering what makes us happy is the real problem, though.
I think we feel guilty for indulging. For spending the time or money cost of that "thing".
If we aren't being productive and working towards crossing off our to-do items, we feel guily.
If we spend time focused on us, instead of our husband or kids, we feel guilty.
If we spend money we could have taken the kids to McDonalds with, we feel guilty.
While we should not be selfish with our money or time,
sometimes spending a little on ourselves is actually investing in our loved ones.
You know the old addage: If Mama aint happy, aint nobody happy?
Yes, yes, I know the scripture references for not being like the sluggard, but be like the ants; or the Prov 31 woman who doesn't let her light go out at dark; or the reference to not grow weary of doing good works; etc.. etc.. etc...
But remember that God also commands us to REST.
*God created the world in 6 days, and on day 7 - He RESTED. (Genesis 2:1-3)
(that is once a week, ladies!)
*Remember the Sabbath? - Commandment #4 ? (Exodus 20:8-11)
*And finally, please look up Matthew 11:28-30 in your Bibles.
Christ bids all who are weary and burdened to come to Him, and He will give us rest.
That is a nice stopping point for today. A nice bridge to my next post on starting the day off with God.
May God Bless each of us as we try to balance our work, family, friend, and self time!
What I would like to discuss, though, are the following two comments:
1) You must have the support of your husband to make me time.
Absolutely.
Lord willing, your (general term to all reading this) husband loves you and wants what is best for you. And that means having some relaxing time. Just you time. If you don't, you are bound to get all tightened up - only to come unraveled on your spouse, your children, and/or your friends (or go crazy). It really is in his best interest to help you make time to relax.
And what if your husband's love language is acts of service? (something more "to do") He likes the dishes done and laundry put away and homecooked meals? By all means, try demonstrating your love of him by doing these things on a regular basis.
But if what speaks love to you is having 1 night a week that is pizza on paper plates night so there's no supper prep or clean up so you can scrapbook .... well, then out of love, he should be willing to accept that 1 night a week there will not be a 5 course meal. (please note that is exagerated. I personally only prepare 4 course meals - whle wearing my pearl necklace and high heels ;)
Or perhaps after talking with your husband you agree that twice a month, instead of doing housework that day, you will spend all day sewing. Please expect the house to be a mess that day, honey.
Make sense?
2) .....what happens if you've actually lost yourself.?........What if you've forgotten what it is that rejuvinates you?
Wow. Very honest. Thanks for sharing this.
I think we as women can so easily get caught up in making sure our spouse and children are happy, that we forget what makes us happy.
(Does it truly make me happy to go on a play date to McDonalds? No. Fun, and better than cleaning my toilets at home, but not relaxing or rejuvenating)
My advice if you have forgotten what rejuvenates you is:
First: Think back to pre-married / pre-kids days. I know that seems an eternity ago, but stretch your brain and try. What did you do if you had the afternoon off work? If you were feeling down, what did you do to cheer yourself up? What activity gave you the warm-fuzzies for hours just thinking about how much fun you had?
Second: What are your current interests? What do you like to talk about with your friends? Is there something you always thought would be fun to try, but keep pushing it off because you don't have time? (learning a musical instrument? taking karate? Taking a cooking class? Learning to crochet? Writing a book? mountain biking? video games?)
And then? Discuss with your spouse ways to re/introduce that "thing" into your current life.
You know what?
I don't truly think that remembering what makes us happy is the real problem, though.
I think we feel guilty for indulging. For spending the time or money cost of that "thing".
If we aren't being productive and working towards crossing off our to-do items, we feel guily.
If we spend time focused on us, instead of our husband or kids, we feel guilty.
If we spend money we could have taken the kids to McDonalds with, we feel guilty.
While we should not be selfish with our money or time,
sometimes spending a little on ourselves is actually investing in our loved ones.
You know the old addage: If Mama aint happy, aint nobody happy?
Yes, yes, I know the scripture references for not being like the sluggard, but be like the ants; or the Prov 31 woman who doesn't let her light go out at dark; or the reference to not grow weary of doing good works; etc.. etc.. etc...
But remember that God also commands us to REST.
*God created the world in 6 days, and on day 7 - He RESTED. (Genesis 2:1-3)
(that is once a week, ladies!)
*Remember the Sabbath? - Commandment #4 ? (Exodus 20:8-11)
*And finally, please look up Matthew 11:28-30 in your Bibles.
Christ bids all who are weary and burdened to come to Him, and He will give us rest.
That is a nice stopping point for today. A nice bridge to my next post on starting the day off with God.
May God Bless each of us as we try to balance our work, family, friend, and self time!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Quick Site Update
Hey Ladies,
Don't think I've ignored your comments on the past couple of posts. I have a lot weighing on my heart to respond to and for the post on morning quiet times. I'll post soon, I promise.
But for now (as my children are waiting patiently for their Mom to make them breakfast....)
I wanted to give a couple quick site updates.
First, thanks to Kari for brining to my attention a link for free downloadable Bible studies.
In light of this, I have added a "Links to Look At" Side Bar. (bottom left of this blog).
As I find links of interest, I will add them to the list.
Check it out!
Second,
I think I've come up with working Labels for this cyber journal. Feel free to suggest other labels or topics of interest for me to consider adding :) And no, I am not going to have a schedule of when I write about certain topics, sorry. I will, however, do my best to consistently label the posts so you can find posts on topics that most interest you :)
Here is the current list:
Britt's Blurts (random stuff)
Chore Chart (Household duties/Cleaning)
God's Glory (goodness of God - Praises)
Humor (I find this funny)
Life Lessons (What God is teaching me)
Marriage Matters (dealing with marriage)
Mommy Moments (dealing with raising children)
Site Maintenance (stuff like this post) ;)
Tea Time (Friendship issues)
Word Walk (Teaching from the Bible)
Thank you SO much for all your faithful comments and patience as I get this blog up and running! You are all appreciated! :)
Don't think I've ignored your comments on the past couple of posts. I have a lot weighing on my heart to respond to and for the post on morning quiet times. I'll post soon, I promise.
But for now (as my children are waiting patiently for their Mom to make them breakfast....)
I wanted to give a couple quick site updates.
First, thanks to Kari for brining to my attention a link for free downloadable Bible studies.
In light of this, I have added a "Links to Look At" Side Bar. (bottom left of this blog).
As I find links of interest, I will add them to the list.
Check it out!
Second,
I think I've come up with working Labels for this cyber journal. Feel free to suggest other labels or topics of interest for me to consider adding :) And no, I am not going to have a schedule of when I write about certain topics, sorry. I will, however, do my best to consistently label the posts so you can find posts on topics that most interest you :)
Here is the current list:
Britt's Blurts (random stuff)
Chore Chart (Household duties/Cleaning)
God's Glory (goodness of God - Praises)
Humor (I find this funny)
Life Lessons (What God is teaching me)
Marriage Matters (dealing with marriage)
Mommy Moments (dealing with raising children)
Site Maintenance (stuff like this post) ;)
Tea Time (Friendship issues)
Word Walk (Teaching from the Bible)
Thank you SO much for all your faithful comments and patience as I get this blog up and running! You are all appreciated! :)
Monday, November 9, 2009
Add it to the List
Remember that list I made a couple posts back about how I was trying to be the best
Wife, Mom, Daughter, etc...... that I could be without going insane?
I would like to add something else to that list.
Well, two things actually. First, I forgot to list that I am a homeschooling parent, so I should probably add teacher to the list. :)
But the one item I was thinking about was.....................
*ME*
It took Mom to remind me of this the other day.
She mentioned she was worried that I did all these other things, but that I didn't take time for myself. My knee jerk response was to deny this. Here is the list that ran rapid-fire through my brain:
* I homeschool my kids because I want to.
* I am working on writing a book because I want to.
* I help at our Awana club because I want to.
* I started this blog, because I want to.
* We do family activities becaust I want to.
etc... etc... etc.... etc... etc....
Then I realized. Just because I want to do something and it is for a good cause, that doesn't mean it necessarily relaxes or rejuvenates me.
Big Difference.
Then the next thought was that I don't have time for one more thing. I mean, already I feel guilty when I sneak in a book and the dusting (pretend I dust, OK?) suffers or I let my children watch an extra video that day so I can finish the story I stayed up to 2:00 am the previous night reading.
Just when would I fit in regularly scheduled "Me"time?
Oh, and my Bible reading and Prayer Time with God.... Was that on the list?
It used to be. I like to think it is. But let me pause and take a quick tally of the number of times I have actually gotten up the past 2 weeks to spend time in the Word and in Prayer............um......um....... I think once, maybe twice..... Sad.
I'll write more on this soon, as I am approaching critical mass for this post already. But it totally relates to this post, so check back in a day or two .....
So when or how am I going to fit in Me Time? I'm not sure, but I need to start working on it! Right now I'm a stressed-out-not-so-happy Wife, Mom, Teacher, etc... etc... etc... because I'm not a happy and relaxed ME.
I'm going to post a mantra to be used as needed.
Feel free to chant out loud with me:
It is OK for me to make time to relax and
accomplish nothing on my "to-do" list.
In fact, I need to. Then I might just accomplish my goal of being the best Wife, Mom, Daughter, Teacher, etc... etc.. etc... without going insane!
P.S. You will be happy to note that I have scheduled this Thursday night to enjoy scrapbooking.
I know, I'm proud of me, too :)
Question for you: What do you do for total relaxation, to feel rejuvenated?
AND - How do you fit it in?
Wife, Mom, Daughter, etc...... that I could be without going insane?
I would like to add something else to that list.
Well, two things actually. First, I forgot to list that I am a homeschooling parent, so I should probably add teacher to the list. :)
But the one item I was thinking about was.....................
*ME*
It took Mom to remind me of this the other day.
She mentioned she was worried that I did all these other things, but that I didn't take time for myself. My knee jerk response was to deny this. Here is the list that ran rapid-fire through my brain:
* I homeschool my kids because I want to.
* I am working on writing a book because I want to.
* I help at our Awana club because I want to.
* I started this blog, because I want to.
* We do family activities becaust I want to.
etc... etc... etc.... etc... etc....
Then I realized. Just because I want to do something and it is for a good cause, that doesn't mean it necessarily relaxes or rejuvenates me.
Big Difference.
Then the next thought was that I don't have time for one more thing. I mean, already I feel guilty when I sneak in a book and the dusting (pretend I dust, OK?) suffers or I let my children watch an extra video that day so I can finish the story I stayed up to 2:00 am the previous night reading.
Just when would I fit in regularly scheduled "Me"time?
Oh, and my Bible reading and Prayer Time with God.... Was that on the list?
It used to be. I like to think it is. But let me pause and take a quick tally of the number of times I have actually gotten up the past 2 weeks to spend time in the Word and in Prayer............um......um....... I think once, maybe twice..... Sad.
I'll write more on this soon, as I am approaching critical mass for this post already. But it totally relates to this post, so check back in a day or two .....
So when or how am I going to fit in Me Time? I'm not sure, but I need to start working on it! Right now I'm a stressed-out-not-so-happy Wife, Mom, Teacher, etc... etc... etc... because I'm not a happy and relaxed ME.
I'm going to post a mantra to be used as needed.
Feel free to chant out loud with me:
It is OK for me to make time to relax and
accomplish nothing on my "to-do" list.
In fact, I need to. Then I might just accomplish my goal of being the best Wife, Mom, Daughter, Teacher, etc... etc.. etc... without going insane!
P.S. You will be happy to note that I have scheduled this Thursday night to enjoy scrapbooking.
I know, I'm proud of me, too :)
Question for you: What do you do for total relaxation, to feel rejuvenated?
AND - How do you fit it in?
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Labels for this blog
Can I count this as a bonus blog posting? A two in one day deal?
Even though the purpose of this post is to solicit your help?
I'm wanting to create labels for the various topics I plan on discussing on this blog.
Below is a list that I have come up with.
What do you think? Catchy? Not Catchy? Meaningful or just confusing?
Also, are there any ideas for discussion topics that I haven't listed that interest you?
Let me know.
Thanks in advance :)
Wifely Wisdom (dealing with married life)
Mommy Moments (dealing with kids)
Britt Blurt (random stuff)
Domestic / Household (need catchy title here, ladies!)
Friends (again, getting late, and can't think of catchy title for this one)
Even though the purpose of this post is to solicit your help?
I'm wanting to create labels for the various topics I plan on discussing on this blog.
Below is a list that I have come up with.
What do you think? Catchy? Not Catchy? Meaningful or just confusing?
Also, are there any ideas for discussion topics that I haven't listed that interest you?
Let me know.
Thanks in advance :)
Wifely Wisdom (dealing with married life)
Mommy Moments (dealing with kids)
Britt Blurt (random stuff)
Domestic / Household (need catchy title here, ladies!)
Friends (again, getting late, and can't think of catchy title for this one)
Two Bin System
Hello Ladies,
Nothing heavy today, just a discussion on something inventory managers refer to as "the Two Bin System" I know that sentence probably seems oxy-moronic, but really - it's simple.
Basically it means that for any given inventory item, (let us call it widget A) a company uses two bins (hence the name) for storage of Widget A.
When the first bin is empty, it is time to reorder Widget A so it is received before the second bin is depleted and the company runs out of Widget A.
I personally operate on a two bin philosophy for many household items.
Things such as flour, wine, toothpaste, and toilet paper are all good examples.
I hate deciding to finally bake a batch of homemade cookies (once in a blue moon) and realize I only have a 1/2 cup of flour left in my flour tupperware. When this does happen, I can relax becuase I know that since I operate on a 2 bin system, there is a 5 lb bag of flour nestled in the back of my pantry.
I think it is obvious why I utilize the 2 bin system for toilet paper. :)
ANYWAY,
I thought I operated on the 2 bin system for shaving cream as well.
Must have forgotten to put it on the list.
So what is a girl to do when realizing "Wow! My husband gets home tonight from a 10 day business trip and..... yep.... haven't shaved the legs for at least that long!" So like a dutiful and loving wife I hop in the shower. Only to realize I am OUT of my raspberry, girly scented shaving cream? I think "No problem. 2 bin system."
Nope. No girly shaving cream to be found - anywhere. :(
I did however find an old canister of my husband's manly scented Edge shaving cream.
Nothing else for it, so I laughed as I lathered and thought "Great! I'm trying to catch my husband by smelling like a man!"
Fortunately, the story ended well. You see, Dan doesn't have the best nose, and with liberal amounts of perfume applied to my neck and wrists...... well, I guess he just didn't get around to smelling my legs! ;)
So Wifely tip for the day, Ladies???
Add Girly Shaving Cream to your Two Bin system.......
At least if your husband is a leg-sniffer, that is :)
Nothing heavy today, just a discussion on something inventory managers refer to as "the Two Bin System" I know that sentence probably seems oxy-moronic, but really - it's simple.
Basically it means that for any given inventory item, (let us call it widget A) a company uses two bins (hence the name) for storage of Widget A.
When the first bin is empty, it is time to reorder Widget A so it is received before the second bin is depleted and the company runs out of Widget A.
I personally operate on a two bin philosophy for many household items.
Things such as flour, wine, toothpaste, and toilet paper are all good examples.
I hate deciding to finally bake a batch of homemade cookies (once in a blue moon) and realize I only have a 1/2 cup of flour left in my flour tupperware. When this does happen, I can relax becuase I know that since I operate on a 2 bin system, there is a 5 lb bag of flour nestled in the back of my pantry.
I think it is obvious why I utilize the 2 bin system for toilet paper. :)
ANYWAY,
I thought I operated on the 2 bin system for shaving cream as well.
Must have forgotten to put it on the list.
So what is a girl to do when realizing "Wow! My husband gets home tonight from a 10 day business trip and..... yep.... haven't shaved the legs for at least that long!" So like a dutiful and loving wife I hop in the shower. Only to realize I am OUT of my raspberry, girly scented shaving cream? I think "No problem. 2 bin system."
Nope. No girly shaving cream to be found - anywhere. :(
I did however find an old canister of my husband's manly scented Edge shaving cream.
Nothing else for it, so I laughed as I lathered and thought "Great! I'm trying to catch my husband by smelling like a man!"
Fortunately, the story ended well. You see, Dan doesn't have the best nose, and with liberal amounts of perfume applied to my neck and wrists...... well, I guess he just didn't get around to smelling my legs! ;)
So Wifely tip for the day, Ladies???
Add Girly Shaving Cream to your Two Bin system.......
At least if your husband is a leg-sniffer, that is :)
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Why this Blog, anyway?
Ok,
So maybe this should have been the first post. But the whole coffee shop experience was fresh on my mind, and seeing as how I am a "blurter", that made first post! (couldn't wait to blog about it) Growing up I always considered myself a patient person.
Then I grew up.
Oh yes, I put on a happy face and pretend all is well..... but inside, I am ready to act NOW.
(Or else have somebody else cease what they are doing/saying to annoy me, NOW.)
This is not a good trait on many levels. But Primarily:
Patience is an expression of love.
Love is patient, Love is kind - 1Corinthians 13:4
Trust me, there have been several days I regret teaching that verse to my children.... ;)
* When I am not being patient (and I mean truly paying attention to what they are
saying/doing - patient) with my children, I am not showing them love.
* When I impatiently tap my foot or roll my eyes at the S-L-O-W
WalMart check out cashier, I am not showing her love. Do I stop to
consider that maybe a truly patient and warm smiling face might
be the only bright spot of her evening? (I mean, who wouldn't perk up at
a smile from me, right?!?)
All right, already. On to the main point of this post
(Thanks for patiently hanging in there, btw) ;)
Why this Blog in the first place?
1) First and foremost, I feel it is a prompting from the Holy Spirit.
It seems HE has really laid it on my heart to Be Real. To put aside the made-up, nicely dressed Sunday morning image. The posting of all things good in my life blog post and FB quips. Now, do not get me wrong. I do not lie, but I don't exactly post the stories of how nicely I yelled at my children that morning! Within the past few weeks a few comments have been made to me that caused me to think about how real I am with people. I'll give you 2 examples.
One was "Britt, that is what I like about you, you are always so real".
Great! That made my day. One of the best compliments ever.
But a month or so later another mom and I had this conversation after church:
Mom: "I love your girls' dresses today, did you make them?"
Me: "NO! I don't sew. I got them at Kohls" (Can I get promo credit from Kohls, here?)
Mom: "Oh, I just assumed you sewed, since you're super mom and do everything"
Yikes! Do I give that impression to people? I mean, sure, I like to be well thought of and to at least appear fairly competent, but "super mom"? Had she spoken with my children, they would have set her straight! :)
2) I feel I have lots to say about life in general
Ok, some other day I will post on another virtue: humbleness. Unfortunately, I do not have that one figured out yet, so it will have to wait. But in all honesty, there are things in life/my life that I want to comment on. And since I do not have a syndicated magazine column, radio spot, or a talkshow bearing my name, that left me with free Blogger! :) This blog is my creative outlet, my cyber journal so to speak. I will probaly continue blogging even after all of you fans (shout out to Mom here) long abandon me :)
3) My prayer is that writing about my life and what God is teaching me will be an encouragement to other women who find themselves at a similar juncture in life.
By that I mean:
Married, raising children, stretching finances, keeping up on housework. Being the best Wife, Mother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Niece, Granddaughter, Cousin, Friend, Neighbor, Worship Team Member, SS Teacher, Aspiring Writer, Person in line at Wal Mart, and Blogger that I can be...... while not snapping into insanity!
So if you are haning in there with me while I figure out the shape of this whole
"cyber-interactive-journal-thing" - thanks a million. Let me know your suggestions to make this a better site. After all, I want this site to be as much about YOU, as it is me.
(See, I'm not that conceited!)
This site just wouldn't work without you.
I would have to start interacting with myself ;)
Question for you:
What ARE your thoughts on this blog idea? Any suggestions on what you would like to read here? What would bring you back to this site? etc... etc....
-Britt :)
So maybe this should have been the first post. But the whole coffee shop experience was fresh on my mind, and seeing as how I am a "blurter", that made first post! (couldn't wait to blog about it) Growing up I always considered myself a patient person.
Then I grew up.
Oh yes, I put on a happy face and pretend all is well..... but inside, I am ready to act NOW.
(Or else have somebody else cease what they are doing/saying to annoy me, NOW.)
This is not a good trait on many levels. But Primarily:
Patience is an expression of love.
Love is patient, Love is kind - 1Corinthians 13:4
Trust me, there have been several days I regret teaching that verse to my children.... ;)
* When I am not being patient (and I mean truly paying attention to what they are
saying/doing - patient) with my children, I am not showing them love.
* When I impatiently tap my foot or roll my eyes at the S-L-O-W
WalMart check out cashier, I am not showing her love. Do I stop to
consider that maybe a truly patient and warm smiling face might
be the only bright spot of her evening? (I mean, who wouldn't perk up at
a smile from me, right?!?)
All right, already. On to the main point of this post
(Thanks for patiently hanging in there, btw) ;)
Why this Blog in the first place?
1) First and foremost, I feel it is a prompting from the Holy Spirit.
It seems HE has really laid it on my heart to Be Real. To put aside the made-up, nicely dressed Sunday morning image. The posting of all things good in my life blog post and FB quips. Now, do not get me wrong. I do not lie, but I don't exactly post the stories of how nicely I yelled at my children that morning! Within the past few weeks a few comments have been made to me that caused me to think about how real I am with people. I'll give you 2 examples.
One was "Britt, that is what I like about you, you are always so real".
Great! That made my day. One of the best compliments ever.
But a month or so later another mom and I had this conversation after church:
Mom: "I love your girls' dresses today, did you make them?"
Me: "NO! I don't sew. I got them at Kohls" (Can I get promo credit from Kohls, here?)
Mom: "Oh, I just assumed you sewed, since you're super mom and do everything"
Yikes! Do I give that impression to people? I mean, sure, I like to be well thought of and to at least appear fairly competent, but "super mom"? Had she spoken with my children, they would have set her straight! :)
2) I feel I have lots to say about life in general
Ok, some other day I will post on another virtue: humbleness. Unfortunately, I do not have that one figured out yet, so it will have to wait. But in all honesty, there are things in life/my life that I want to comment on. And since I do not have a syndicated magazine column, radio spot, or a talkshow bearing my name, that left me with free Blogger! :) This blog is my creative outlet, my cyber journal so to speak. I will probaly continue blogging even after all of you fans (shout out to Mom here) long abandon me :)
3) My prayer is that writing about my life and what God is teaching me will be an encouragement to other women who find themselves at a similar juncture in life.
By that I mean:
Married, raising children, stretching finances, keeping up on housework. Being the best Wife, Mother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Niece, Granddaughter, Cousin, Friend, Neighbor, Worship Team Member, SS Teacher, Aspiring Writer, Person in line at Wal Mart, and Blogger that I can be...... while not snapping into insanity!
So if you are haning in there with me while I figure out the shape of this whole
"cyber-interactive-journal-thing" - thanks a million. Let me know your suggestions to make this a better site. After all, I want this site to be as much about YOU, as it is me.
(See, I'm not that conceited!)
This site just wouldn't work without you.
I would have to start interacting with myself ;)
Question for you:
What ARE your thoughts on this blog idea? Any suggestions on what you would like to read here? What would bring you back to this site? etc... etc....
-Britt :)
Saturday, October 31, 2009
8 words - 2 different meanings
Hello to whoever is reading!
My husband recently just got back from a ten day business trip. I needed a break.
Now, do not get me wrong, I love my 3 wonderful children, and they were really well behaved. But after 10 days being the single parent, (if you are a single parent reading this, YOU are amazing!) I needed solitude. It became evident after a rough start to the day yesterday. Three children whining before breakfast is even over doesn't bode well for the day. (Does yelling at the top of my lungs like a tantrum-throwing 2 year, toothbrush in hand, "I AM NOT HAVING A GOOD DAY" to my half-shaved and startled husband say anything!?!)
Anyay, it was decided by the rational parent (Dan) I should take off for a coffee shop break immediately following supper that evening and not return for a few hours. (he loves me, he really does)
That brings me to the title of this post.
I was GIDDY to be out of the house with a whole evening of solitude ahead of me.
I step up to the coffee counter and blurt out the following 8 words to the barrista:
"My husband kicked me out of the house!"
Seeing her eyes round to the size of saucers and her jaw literally drop, I realized that might have come out wrong :) As she started to apologize for my situation, I quickly explained that it was a loving thing to do - that my husband was watching our 3 little children so I could have some alone time. Visibly relaxing, she took my 1/2 decaf, skinny mocha with a shot of english toffee order.
Unfortunately, I tend to blurt out words without first considering how they might sound to others. In my head, it all makes perfect sense. (I have a crazy way of making 5 different thought processes fit together in a tangled web of perfect sense.... to me alone, but perfect sense.)
On the spiritual side, it made me realize I sure am glad God is not a God of confusion.
He says what He means and means what He says. And if my eyes happen to pop out, or my jaw drops after reading a particular verse, all I have to do is keep reading the entire passage for context, or cross reference other verses dealing with the same topic. Then I get the clear picture of what Jesus is trying to teach me.
This brings me to the interactive portion of this post. I have two questions for you:
1) Has anyone else ever said something and had it taken in a completely wrong/different way?
2) Does anyone else feel their super single parent powers dissolve into crazy parent mush the moment your spouse(or other helper) walks in the door? (I promise I did not behave like a two year old while Dan was away. I was responsible, patient, loving, and in general, a poster-perfect parent. Well, at least I thought so in my head)
My husband recently just got back from a ten day business trip. I needed a break.
Now, do not get me wrong, I love my 3 wonderful children, and they were really well behaved. But after 10 days being the single parent, (if you are a single parent reading this, YOU are amazing!) I needed solitude. It became evident after a rough start to the day yesterday. Three children whining before breakfast is even over doesn't bode well for the day. (Does yelling at the top of my lungs like a tantrum-throwing 2 year, toothbrush in hand, "I AM NOT HAVING A GOOD DAY" to my half-shaved and startled husband say anything!?!)
Anyay, it was decided by the rational parent (Dan) I should take off for a coffee shop break immediately following supper that evening and not return for a few hours. (he loves me, he really does)
That brings me to the title of this post.
I was GIDDY to be out of the house with a whole evening of solitude ahead of me.
I step up to the coffee counter and blurt out the following 8 words to the barrista:
"My husband kicked me out of the house!"
Seeing her eyes round to the size of saucers and her jaw literally drop, I realized that might have come out wrong :) As she started to apologize for my situation, I quickly explained that it was a loving thing to do - that my husband was watching our 3 little children so I could have some alone time. Visibly relaxing, she took my 1/2 decaf, skinny mocha with a shot of english toffee order.
Unfortunately, I tend to blurt out words without first considering how they might sound to others. In my head, it all makes perfect sense. (I have a crazy way of making 5 different thought processes fit together in a tangled web of perfect sense.... to me alone, but perfect sense.)
On the spiritual side, it made me realize I sure am glad God is not a God of confusion.
He says what He means and means what He says. And if my eyes happen to pop out, or my jaw drops after reading a particular verse, all I have to do is keep reading the entire passage for context, or cross reference other verses dealing with the same topic. Then I get the clear picture of what Jesus is trying to teach me.
This brings me to the interactive portion of this post. I have two questions for you:
1) Has anyone else ever said something and had it taken in a completely wrong/different way?
2) Does anyone else feel their super single parent powers dissolve into crazy parent mush the moment your spouse(or other helper) walks in the door? (I promise I did not behave like a two year old while Dan was away. I was responsible, patient, loving, and in general, a poster-perfect parent. Well, at least I thought so in my head)
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