Just a few words about the minutes in my life that fill up a lifetime journey of years of joy. My life calculated in minutes is a reminder that each minute, every 60 seconds, every 24 hours and each year is just a small glimpse of the wonderful eternity my God is preparing for me.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Pinterest Finds
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Playing Stay At Home Mom
With the demands of my life in the past few years, I have completely lost what it was like to be a Stay At Home Mom. What once was my ordinary daily activity was replaced with priorities of my job and my kid's ever busy activities.
I don't regret being a Stay At Home Mom nor do I regret being a Working Mom. They each have had their seasons in my life. I embraced both during the seasons that they were the role I played in my life.
Now, I am in an in between season of my life. This part of my life is where I am on a leave of absence from my work and giving being a a stay at home mom my full attention for this moment in time. Something that in my mind there was no option as to IF this would be the way it was or not.
This part of my life is filled with cleaning, cooking, baking, dog walking, my kid's activities, doctor's appointments, and etc. It is more work than any job! It is 24/7.
For now, we don't what will come next. Even though I had my goals and plans all laid out for the next five years, God took a black sharpie and just put a big "TBD" (to be determined) over my whole life plan.
I am a planner. What do I do now if I don't have the exact plan or the exact time frame in which to make a plan?
I am trusting that God has the plan and this is comforting. Yet, the not knowing still leaves me anxious and scared.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
The longest two minutes....
On Sunday, I had an infection that caused me to have to go the urgent care. The infection caused my face to swell up and was pretty painful. Luckily, it was some kind of reaction or whatever that is being treated with antibiotic and steroids.
Yet, did you know before you get a prescription for a steroid that they make you take a pregnancy test? The young (and very pregnant herself) doctor said "Well, I am going to get you on your way but we need to take a pregnancy test first to make sure that the prescription I am going to give you is safe in the chance that you are pregnant".
She showed me to the restroom and pointed toward the small cup and towelette that was on the shelving. With a few instructions, routine and not needed, she left the room to allow me to finish up this simple task. After completing said needed task, washing up and returning to my room I had the longest two minutes I can remember in a long time.
Within two minutes, my mind stretched from "WHAT IF" to "NO WAY" and included everything in between. In two minutes I considered the following:
- I have teenagers. Kagan is 16 so by the time this kid even goes to school Kagan will not even be at home any more.
- I saw the cutest nursery set up at Babies R Us that I would love to get.
- Will I break the tradition of "K" names with a fourth child?
- This is going to freak Kaleb out!
- My mom is going to freak out too!
- I bet all three of my kids would be so much help with a baby. They are all really good with kids and this would be so much easier with only one baby at a time.
- What age do women quit having babies? Aren't I getting too old?
- I am going to kill Marshall Kaleb Moss (yep, all three names here)!
- I think Kenadee would like a sister and hate having a brother at this point.
- Both Kaleb and I were younger when our parents had us. Imagine if their life did not include us?
- Wow, I can't believe Bubba was still having kids at my age? How many kids does he have again?
- Would I keep working?
- What would happen if I tried to work from home some and also go to the office. I don't want someone else raising my baby.
- Oh wait....the baby clothes are so cute. Plus I can't wait to look at all the new things that are out for babies.
- I am going to Kill Kaleb!
- God is so good to me and I just said I would deal with what ever He gives me in the new year. Is this a sign? What is He going to try to teach me?
- Disney for a baby is free.
- I just lost 40 lbs and now I am going to gain it all back.
- I can eat whatever I want if I am pregnant.
- I want to make a quilt for the baby or maybe Ledra will help me if I get the stuff.
Ya get the point. I will not continue with what all I thought in minute number two!
Needless to say, time almost stood still. There was something that could have been such a sweet blessing if God had decided that was needed. However, I honestly can say I was relieved and so glad that God had not chosen this path for me at this point in my life. While I think every child is a blessing and a gift from God and that I would have been thrilled if so - I can also say I feel just a blessed that it was a negative result when the doctor returned to the room.
My life is moving forward where I am out of the child bearing days of life. I am beyond this point because now I am having a crazy time raising teens! I am closer to being the age of grandchildren than having babies of my own. (OH MY GOODNESS - I AM GETTING OLD!) - This is another post all itself.
I was reminded that just one little moment in time can change the destiny of years to come. Yet, I was happy to be reminded that no matter what the surprises or life changes that be made with one phone call, one visit with a friend or even learned in two minutes at a doctor that there is plenty of life to be had. Until the day I die, I get to live with unknowns and possibilities. I get to embrace seconds....minutes...hours...days that will change my life forever.
The only thing certain is that God has control over the tiniest of details. That works for me.
Oh yea --- I am not freaking out so the results were negative if you did not catch that above. And yes...Kaleb is still alive!
Yet, did you know before you get a prescription for a steroid that they make you take a pregnancy test? The young (and very pregnant herself) doctor said "Well, I am going to get you on your way but we need to take a pregnancy test first to make sure that the prescription I am going to give you is safe in the chance that you are pregnant".
She showed me to the restroom and pointed toward the small cup and towelette that was on the shelving. With a few instructions, routine and not needed, she left the room to allow me to finish up this simple task. After completing said needed task, washing up and returning to my room I had the longest two minutes I can remember in a long time.
Within two minutes, my mind stretched from "WHAT IF" to "NO WAY" and included everything in between. In two minutes I considered the following:
- I have teenagers. Kagan is 16 so by the time this kid even goes to school Kagan will not even be at home any more.
- I saw the cutest nursery set up at Babies R Us that I would love to get.
- Will I break the tradition of "K" names with a fourth child?
- This is going to freak Kaleb out!
- My mom is going to freak out too!
- I bet all three of my kids would be so much help with a baby. They are all really good with kids and this would be so much easier with only one baby at a time.
- What age do women quit having babies? Aren't I getting too old?
- I am going to kill Marshall Kaleb Moss (yep, all three names here)!
- I think Kenadee would like a sister and hate having a brother at this point.
- Both Kaleb and I were younger when our parents had us. Imagine if their life did not include us?
- Wow, I can't believe Bubba was still having kids at my age? How many kids does he have again?
- Would I keep working?
- What would happen if I tried to work from home some and also go to the office. I don't want someone else raising my baby.
- Oh wait....the baby clothes are so cute. Plus I can't wait to look at all the new things that are out for babies.
- I am going to Kill Kaleb!
- God is so good to me and I just said I would deal with what ever He gives me in the new year. Is this a sign? What is He going to try to teach me?
- Disney for a baby is free.
- I just lost 40 lbs and now I am going to gain it all back.
- I can eat whatever I want if I am pregnant.
- I want to make a quilt for the baby or maybe Ledra will help me if I get the stuff.
Ya get the point. I will not continue with what all I thought in minute number two!
Needless to say, time almost stood still. There was something that could have been such a sweet blessing if God had decided that was needed. However, I honestly can say I was relieved and so glad that God had not chosen this path for me at this point in my life. While I think every child is a blessing and a gift from God and that I would have been thrilled if so - I can also say I feel just a blessed that it was a negative result when the doctor returned to the room.
My life is moving forward where I am out of the child bearing days of life. I am beyond this point because now I am having a crazy time raising teens! I am closer to being the age of grandchildren than having babies of my own. (OH MY GOODNESS - I AM GETTING OLD!) - This is another post all itself.
I was reminded that just one little moment in time can change the destiny of years to come. Yet, I was happy to be reminded that no matter what the surprises or life changes that be made with one phone call, one visit with a friend or even learned in two minutes at a doctor that there is plenty of life to be had. Until the day I die, I get to live with unknowns and possibilities. I get to embrace seconds....minutes...hours...days that will change my life forever.
The only thing certain is that God has control over the tiniest of details. That works for me.
Oh yea --- I am not freaking out so the results were negative if you did not catch that above. And yes...Kaleb is still alive!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Dear 2012
Dear 2012,
I am sitting here thinking of how excited I am to meet you. Really, I have been giddy over the last week for the unexpected blessings and new opportunities that await me and my family in the new year.
Just so you know, 2011 and I had a great relationship. As a family, we had many new challenges that we faced together and more triumphs that we claimed. We experienced life and embraced the blessings that unfolded daily thru out the year.
In 2012, I have new goals, new aspirations and most especially a new focus. It feels a little empowering to be so determined to accomplish the impossible! I will end 2012 with a sense of accomplishment, I am certain, because I am focused to achieve. Even if I find myself not accomplishing the entire portion of the goal I will have at least made a step in the right direction. I know I can at least do that much!
My 2012 Goals are:
Personal -
Like every other single American I plan to shed some pounds! I got 40 lbs (that is a small child) off before Thanksgiving and in January I plan to pick back up and get moving!
I also plan to continue with my journey to rediscover ME! This will not make sense to many but to me, I have found that with all the hats in life that I wear that I have overlooked ME! I am not aiming to become self absorbent but self aware. To embellish the parts of myself that I love and remove the things about myself that I am not happy with.
Spiritually -
I am going to read the bible chronologically this year. A deeper understanding of the history and timelines of events in the bible.
In 2011, I started the Read The Bible Thru in a year challenge. I finished but did not participate in all the studies at the church. I likely missed out on some great feedback from people who are much wiser than me but then again - sometimes I think I just need t let what God is trying to teach me soak in.
I also plan to listen more. This is the hardest thing for me to do is to STOP and listen for God to tell me what He has in store for me. I miss so many things that God wants for me because I am busy doing to get to a point where if I just would have listed God would have taken me there sooner.
Financially-
Balanced Budget! - This is an obvious goal since it always gets a little out of "balance" at the end of the year. Number 1 goal of January is to get this back to where it should be so that it does not creep into other months. Get those credit cards back down to a $0 balance after unexpected extra cash needs at Christmas time.
Home Purchase - I am hoping to find my new home this year. It got put off in 2011 for several reasons and I am hoping that sometime in the fall we will be ready to possibly move into our new home. This is kinda one of those things that I can't make happen over night but I am putting all the pieces into the right place for when it happens.
Planning - We have a lot of big purchases and/or big obligations that are coming up in the next few years. This year, I plan to see where we need to be financially to make sure that kids college education is secure. Oh and there is some matter of a possible car for certain almost 16 year old. A few changes needs to be made but I am hoping that 2012 is geared up to afford me these luxuries.
Family-
Immediate Family - I plan to spend more time with my kids. Re-establish the family outings that we have gotten away from. Mini weekends, tank full day trips or even more vacations. I also plan to not make my family second to other things that sometimes get in the way. I want to spend quality time with Kagan, Kade and Kenadee that involves knowing them more. They are getting older and the line between drill sargaent and friend is pretty thin but I want to invest more time in my relationship with them.
My hubby- he deserves so much more than I give him. I find that I give myself 100% in other areas but he often is neglected because I can count on him to always be there. Gonna make sure that 2012 is another year of strengthening the relationship that is most important. My commitment to also help him finally open his shop this year is my number one focus. I want Maged Industries to prosper in 2012 because Kaleb is so talented and amazing at what he does. I want him to share that with others.
My parents - I miss them. Going to make sure that I see them this year. I am also excited that they have entered into the world of facebook, email and text messaging. Really hoping that maybe we can do a mini-vacation with them and there is even talk of going home for the holidays this year.
My extended family - I want to connect more. We have family that lives in Florida that we rarely see and my Texas family is becoming less often communicated with. Sure, I love the facebook interaction, but I think I am missing the heart to heart family time with them as well.
My Job-
This year has been a little more difficult in work. I love my job and what I get to do. Yet, there are things that I know need to change to make it better. I am not going to complain, I am just going to be that change. I think I have gotten away from that by trying to hold others accountable but then I am just convicted that if I do the right thing then I will at least feel the accomplishment.
My Friendships
I have a few friendships that I am going to really invest in this year. One of my best friends and I only saw one another a few times this past year. We are going to change that for 2012. Plus, there are people that I invested way more in during prior years when my real friends deserved my loyalty and my time. I failed on giving of my time to the wrong people and that will not happen this year.
I learned a lot in 2011 to make me a better person but I am looking forward to you and I meeting in a few days. My promise to you, my dear 2012, is that I am ready to work hard and play harder. I will not give up no matter what you bring. I will pray daily to thank God for blessing me with another day and I will pray harder that God will guide me to the next day. I will await God's answers to the big questions I have and I will patiently listen for God's direction for my path.
Let's do this 2012!!!
Love,
Misti
I am sitting here thinking of how excited I am to meet you. Really, I have been giddy over the last week for the unexpected blessings and new opportunities that await me and my family in the new year.
Just so you know, 2011 and I had a great relationship. As a family, we had many new challenges that we faced together and more triumphs that we claimed. We experienced life and embraced the blessings that unfolded daily thru out the year.
In 2012, I have new goals, new aspirations and most especially a new focus. It feels a little empowering to be so determined to accomplish the impossible! I will end 2012 with a sense of accomplishment, I am certain, because I am focused to achieve. Even if I find myself not accomplishing the entire portion of the goal I will have at least made a step in the right direction. I know I can at least do that much!
My 2012 Goals are:
Personal -
Like every other single American I plan to shed some pounds! I got 40 lbs (that is a small child) off before Thanksgiving and in January I plan to pick back up and get moving!
I also plan to continue with my journey to rediscover ME! This will not make sense to many but to me, I have found that with all the hats in life that I wear that I have overlooked ME! I am not aiming to become self absorbent but self aware. To embellish the parts of myself that I love and remove the things about myself that I am not happy with.
Spiritually -
I am going to read the bible chronologically this year. A deeper understanding of the history and timelines of events in the bible.
In 2011, I started the Read The Bible Thru in a year challenge. I finished but did not participate in all the studies at the church. I likely missed out on some great feedback from people who are much wiser than me but then again - sometimes I think I just need t let what God is trying to teach me soak in.
I also plan to listen more. This is the hardest thing for me to do is to STOP and listen for God to tell me what He has in store for me. I miss so many things that God wants for me because I am busy doing to get to a point where if I just would have listed God would have taken me there sooner.
Financially-
Balanced Budget! - This is an obvious goal since it always gets a little out of "balance" at the end of the year. Number 1 goal of January is to get this back to where it should be so that it does not creep into other months. Get those credit cards back down to a $0 balance after unexpected extra cash needs at Christmas time.
Home Purchase - I am hoping to find my new home this year. It got put off in 2011 for several reasons and I am hoping that sometime in the fall we will be ready to possibly move into our new home. This is kinda one of those things that I can't make happen over night but I am putting all the pieces into the right place for when it happens.
Planning - We have a lot of big purchases and/or big obligations that are coming up in the next few years. This year, I plan to see where we need to be financially to make sure that kids college education is secure. Oh and there is some matter of a possible car for certain almost 16 year old. A few changes needs to be made but I am hoping that 2012 is geared up to afford me these luxuries.
Family-
Immediate Family - I plan to spend more time with my kids. Re-establish the family outings that we have gotten away from. Mini weekends, tank full day trips or even more vacations. I also plan to not make my family second to other things that sometimes get in the way. I want to spend quality time with Kagan, Kade and Kenadee that involves knowing them more. They are getting older and the line between drill sargaent and friend is pretty thin but I want to invest more time in my relationship with them.
My hubby- he deserves so much more than I give him. I find that I give myself 100% in other areas but he often is neglected because I can count on him to always be there. Gonna make sure that 2012 is another year of strengthening the relationship that is most important. My commitment to also help him finally open his shop this year is my number one focus. I want Maged Industries to prosper in 2012 because Kaleb is so talented and amazing at what he does. I want him to share that with others.
My parents - I miss them. Going to make sure that I see them this year. I am also excited that they have entered into the world of facebook, email and text messaging. Really hoping that maybe we can do a mini-vacation with them and there is even talk of going home for the holidays this year.
My extended family - I want to connect more. We have family that lives in Florida that we rarely see and my Texas family is becoming less often communicated with. Sure, I love the facebook interaction, but I think I am missing the heart to heart family time with them as well.
My Job-
This year has been a little more difficult in work. I love my job and what I get to do. Yet, there are things that I know need to change to make it better. I am not going to complain, I am just going to be that change. I think I have gotten away from that by trying to hold others accountable but then I am just convicted that if I do the right thing then I will at least feel the accomplishment.
My Friendships
I have a few friendships that I am going to really invest in this year. One of my best friends and I only saw one another a few times this past year. We are going to change that for 2012. Plus, there are people that I invested way more in during prior years when my real friends deserved my loyalty and my time. I failed on giving of my time to the wrong people and that will not happen this year.
I learned a lot in 2011 to make me a better person but I am looking forward to you and I meeting in a few days. My promise to you, my dear 2012, is that I am ready to work hard and play harder. I will not give up no matter what you bring. I will pray daily to thank God for blessing me with another day and I will pray harder that God will guide me to the next day. I will await God's answers to the big questions I have and I will patiently listen for God's direction for my path.
Let's do this 2012!!!
Love,
Misti
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Christmas Night
This year was a special Christmas in our family. A Christmas that was centered around TEENAGERS! (Well, Kenadee is a pre-teen but acts every bit of a teen!) This made Christmas a little less about toys and more about thoughtful gifts of love.
When my kids were small, I use to take them to the Dollar Store to buy their gifts for their siblings. Mainly because at a $1, they could buy ANYTHING In the whole store for one another. This made the possibility of gift giving endless to them. As they have grown older, things have changed and they no longer shop for one another at the $1 store. Instead, they thoughtfully think of the other one and their personality and give a gift that they KNOW the others will love. This part of Christmas is so treasured.
The gifts my kids give one another are so special because I can tell how well they know they one another. How much they care to give each other something special and unique just to them.
As a mom, I also get a little teary eyed because I want to pray my children will continue this tradition as they grow older. I hope that when they enjoy Christmas that they will continue to give one another gifts of love....Even if it is a small handwritten letter or an extravagant gift. As long as they have done what they could for one another in love and with the sincerest thought the gift does not even need to cost a cent.
This Christmas closes but once again I am reminded of what Christmas gift giving is all about. I am left hoping I never grow a Grinch like heart where my holidays don't mean what they should. I know too many people (even me sometimes) who give out of obligation, fail to give when they should and make the holidays a day to get thru rather than a day to treasure.
Thank you to Kagan, Kade & Kenadee for being children who inspire their mother to be more like you. I am blessed to be your mom and to each of you I honestly can say that the gift of each of you in my life is the greatest gift of all. I love you all and wish you a very Merry Christmas!
When my kids were small, I use to take them to the Dollar Store to buy their gifts for their siblings. Mainly because at a $1, they could buy ANYTHING In the whole store for one another. This made the possibility of gift giving endless to them. As they have grown older, things have changed and they no longer shop for one another at the $1 store. Instead, they thoughtfully think of the other one and their personality and give a gift that they KNOW the others will love. This part of Christmas is so treasured.
The gifts my kids give one another are so special because I can tell how well they know they one another. How much they care to give each other something special and unique just to them.
As a mom, I also get a little teary eyed because I want to pray my children will continue this tradition as they grow older. I hope that when they enjoy Christmas that they will continue to give one another gifts of love....Even if it is a small handwritten letter or an extravagant gift. As long as they have done what they could for one another in love and with the sincerest thought the gift does not even need to cost a cent.
This Christmas closes but once again I am reminded of what Christmas gift giving is all about. I am left hoping I never grow a Grinch like heart where my holidays don't mean what they should. I know too many people (even me sometimes) who give out of obligation, fail to give when they should and make the holidays a day to get thru rather than a day to treasure.
Thank you to Kagan, Kade & Kenadee for being children who inspire their mother to be more like you. I am blessed to be your mom and to each of you I honestly can say that the gift of each of you in my life is the greatest gift of all. I love you all and wish you a very Merry Christmas!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
CWF Photo Challenge - Day 9
A picture of the person that has gotten you thru the most
There is no doubt about it - Kaleb Moss!
There is no doubt about it - Kaleb Moss!
CWF Photo Challenge - Day 8
A picture of something that makes you laugh
Hey, can't blame a mom for trying!
Hey, can't blame a mom for trying!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Thru the Bible 2011 - Joshua
Joshua is book full of childhood stories and heroic adventures. It is a book of the bible that shows the faith of Joshua but it also contains my favorite bible character.
A few years ago, in a bible study, we were talking about women in the bible that we found ourselves to be most like. Of the choices, I picked Rahab. The more I study about her and put into perpesctive her life - the more I think most Christians are like her.
Thanks to the story of Rahab, I am reminded that:
- God never uses your profession to define your importance for His calling.
- God never requries you to be perfect to be chosen.
- God can destroy a sinful nation and save a sinful women who choses him.
- The faith shown by a woman who had only heard about "God" was able to experience Him and live in harmony with his people.
- The impact of one woman "changing" herself brought about her being a part of the lineage of Christ.
Rahab is unique in her story line in the bible. I can not relate to living the type of life she lived but I can relate to making mistakes. I bet Rehab felt guilt and concern over her past but I also know she never regretted picking God when she did. She might have just been one of the few people where being in the wrong place at the right time - was perfect timing for God to show his grace to her.
A simple sign of a red cord, in the midst of a fallen city, points towards a chosen daughter of the King. Gives me goosebumps when I think of how she must have felt as she walked out among the devasting rubble of destroyed Jericho. She likely saw the faces and bodies of those who once looked down upon her, who abused her and who counted her as a nobody! Yet, because she chose to be faithful --- God saw her and counted her as somebody!
CWF Photo Challenge - Day 7
A picture of your most treasured item...
My parents. Thanks to them - I learn to value what really should be treausred in life.
My parents. Thanks to them - I learn to value what really should be treausred in life.
CWF Photo Challenge - Day 6
A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day.
I would trade places with Eve before the fall of man. I wonder what it would have been like to have been in a sinless world, walking in the beauty of eden, no care in the world and having your only real "job" be to be the helpmate to your spouse.
She had God to talk to. A life abundant and beautiful. The only woman in to experience such a life was Eve.
I would trade places with Eve before the fall of man. I wonder what it would have been like to have been in a sinless world, walking in the beauty of eden, no care in the world and having your only real "job" be to be the helpmate to your spouse.
She had God to talk to. A life abundant and beautiful. The only woman in to experience such a life was Eve.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
CWF Photo Challenge - Day 5
Most of my most precious and favorite memories are only captured in my heart and mind. No kodak moments for most of the ones that I treasure the most.
The best memory as a family was when we went to Disney and were asked to be the 1st Family. We got to open the park at Animal Kingdom. It was a great treat for our family and was the start of a great vacation.
The best memory as a family was when we went to Disney and were asked to be the 1st Family. We got to open the park at Animal Kingdom. It was a great treat for our family and was the start of a great vacation.
Monday, March 7, 2011
CWF Photo Challenge - Day 4
A picture of your favorite night.
The birth of each of my children were really special; however there was something extremely special about the first night in the hospital as parents. I was SCARED to death to, I was over joyed, I was so in love with both Kaleb and Kagan and I was exhausted. It was a full range of emotions. This night, like none other, was definately my favorite night of becoming a family. I will never forget it as long as live.
The birth of each of my children were really special; however there was something extremely special about the first night in the hospital as parents. I was SCARED to death to, I was over joyed, I was so in love with both Kaleb and Kagan and I was exhausted. It was a full range of emotions. This night, like none other, was definately my favorite night of becoming a family. I will never forget it as long as live.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Great Books....Great Reviews
This past week (and weeks for one book), I have read several amazing books. They are books that have definately impacted my life and I know the words echoed in my thoughts will not cease anytime soon.
First, Amanda (Beth Moore's daughter) had a great review of a book that I decided to read. The book is now on my Top 10 books of all times. I highlighted a numerous amount of quotes from the book that I will definately be using in the future. The name of the book is Finding God's Will: Seek Him, Know Him, Take the Next Step, by Gregg Matte.
I can honestly say that this book is packed full of wisdom and the message is so timely at this pivotal time in my life. It is inspiring, endearing, honest and absolutely an absolute joy to read.
P.S. - I read it the kindle version for the ipad and iphone. I will be getting me a new ipad2 when they come out!
Next, I read Shelia Walsh's book called The Shelter of God's Promises. It was again packed full of wonderful examples of the promises that God has given each of us. I love it soooooo much!
Our Sunday School class is reading The Grace of God by Andy Stanley. We are reading one chapter at a time and it has been hard to stop and not finish the rest the book when the chapeter for the week ends. On top of the wonderful word illustrations from Andy Stanley, there has been such rich discussion. In Sunday School and at home with Kaleb, some of the greatest truths of God's word have been poured over with a new light.
Lastly, as many know we are reading daily the bible. Each one of these books above have impacted me more thanks to the study of God's word. A new meaning (or understanding) has allowed me to dig deeper and find precious truths that I can cling to.
First, Amanda (Beth Moore's daughter) had a great review of a book that I decided to read. The book is now on my Top 10 books of all times. I highlighted a numerous amount of quotes from the book that I will definately be using in the future. The name of the book is Finding God's Will: Seek Him, Know Him, Take the Next Step, by Gregg Matte.
I can honestly say that this book is packed full of wisdom and the message is so timely at this pivotal time in my life. It is inspiring, endearing, honest and absolutely an absolute joy to read.
P.S. - I read it the kindle version for the ipad and iphone. I will be getting me a new ipad2 when they come out!
Next, I read Shelia Walsh's book called The Shelter of God's Promises. It was again packed full of wonderful examples of the promises that God has given each of us. I love it soooooo much!
Our Sunday School class is reading The Grace of God by Andy Stanley. We are reading one chapter at a time and it has been hard to stop and not finish the rest the book when the chapeter for the week ends. On top of the wonderful word illustrations from Andy Stanley, there has been such rich discussion. In Sunday School and at home with Kaleb, some of the greatest truths of God's word have been poured over with a new light.
Lastly, as many know we are reading daily the bible. Each one of these books above have impacted me more thanks to the study of God's word. A new meaning (or understanding) has allowed me to dig deeper and find precious truths that I can cling to.
30 Day Photo Challenge - Day 3
A picture of the cast of your favorite show
I LOVE Scrubs! I watch an episode (or a few) every single night before bed.
I LOVE Scrubs! I watch an episode (or a few) every single night before bed.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
30 Day Photo Challenge - Day 2
Day 2 - A picture of you and the person you have been closest with the longest
No doubt about it, there is no one I have been closer with than my MOM! She is my biggest cheerleader and my wisest source of advice. I love her to pieces and am so thankful to have her in my life. I am blessed beyond words to be her daughter.
No doubt about it, there is no one I have been closer with than my MOM! She is my biggest cheerleader and my wisest source of advice. I love her to pieces and am so thankful to have her in my life. I am blessed beyond words to be her daughter.
Friday, March 4, 2011
30 Day Photo Challenge - Day One
Day One - A picture of myself with 10 facts....
1. I hate chocolate; but I do like Peanut Butter Cups.
2. I am head over heels in love with my amazing husband, Kaleb.
3. I have dreamed of being an author.
4. My world is defined by Kagan, Kade and Kenadee in so many ways.
5. I spend tons of time looking for the perfect chair which seems to only exist in my mind. I have a vision of my comfy chair but never seem to find at the store.
6. I am scared about my kids getting married and never coming home to see me.
7. I think God has something in store for me to do that I have not seen yet.
8. I get scared very easily.
9. I love to plan anything, especially family trips.
10. I put on my pj's the minute I walk into the house.
1. I hate chocolate; but I do like Peanut Butter Cups.
2. I am head over heels in love with my amazing husband, Kaleb.
3. I have dreamed of being an author.
4. My world is defined by Kagan, Kade and Kenadee in so many ways.
5. I spend tons of time looking for the perfect chair which seems to only exist in my mind. I have a vision of my comfy chair but never seem to find at the store.
6. I am scared about my kids getting married and never coming home to see me.
7. I think God has something in store for me to do that I have not seen yet.
8. I get scared very easily.
9. I love to plan anything, especially family trips.
10. I put on my pj's the minute I walk into the house.
Thru The Bible - Deuteronomy
I was discouraged a little bit when I first started reading Deuteronomy because I just felt like it was a lot of repeat of what I had learned in the previous chapters. Then it hit me - if God put it in the bible more than once - he MUST have a reason. With that one little statement, I was humbled....
Then just as I was humbled, God showed me some great NEW things that I was almost apt to "skim" right over. Thank you God for your patience with me.
I had a thought that even with all the great things that Moses did, his last purpose was encourage Joshua to become the leader the people needed. Moses spent his last days preparing the way for Joshua to inherit what Moses knew as the Promised land.
I loved the number of times that people were showed that GOD would be fighting the battle for them. In some cases, they had to show up to swing the sword but how much power of God's they must have felt. Think about all the men that fought opponents that for all reason should have one; but the victory was theirs because God willed victory for them. It would have made a blockbuster movie, I am sure!
I forget how many "other gods" the Isrealites were comfronted with. The more I read, my thoughts are changed about how those chosen men and women lived. They lived in a society inindated with a god for everything. Not much different than today. Their "simple life" was much more complicated than I often consider it to be.
I felt blessed by the number of times that God chose to express his love for us. His abounding love that will carry us like a father a carrys a son and for thousand generations to come. Such a precious love letter from my father!
I love that God let us see His watchful care for all generations. He not only is working things out for us but may be fulfilling something in our life to open a great blessing to our children. There is no greater thought in the world than to be reminded that God planned in the beginning how HE would bless my children. It gives me goosebumps!
Such a great reminder about how a "little sin" of allowing destable things into our home cause us to be like the rest of people. Instead, God tells us to abhor and detest these things.
I love Deut. 11:19 - I want to be reminded by God's word to let my actions speak to my children as well as my words.
I am still so shocked how much of the American judicial system is embedded within the words of bible. If we could just get back to living within God's laws we would not need so many legalities!
The bible says women can not wear men's clothing. When we use to wear decorated boxers to school (as shorts) my dad said this was forbidden in the bible. I thought he was joking, but it appears he was right! LOL
In chapter 24, it talks about how a newly married man should not be sent to war. Once again, there is reminder of God's protection over marriage. He wants us to be successful and to have time to be with one another.
I was so taken with Chapter 32. I loved the verse that says to "let my teaching fall like rain". I stopped to pray that God would shower me withHis teaching so that I daily fall more in love with His ways. It closes by saying "They are not just idle words for you, they are your life". How true I want this to be in my life.
To wrap us this chapter that I first began reading as if it was a "repeat" I read these words : "The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are everlasting arms". Thank you God for your grace...Thank you for your mercy....and most of all thank you for your love!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Thru the Bible....Numbers
We just finished the Book of Numbers and I am enjoying this journey so much. This year has been such a blessing of really "digging in" and finding new treasures from God's word.
Everyone talks about the beauty of the Mona Lisa, which is really quite ordinary if you think about it. A simple portrait done by an amazing artist who found a way to create a timeless piece of art. The "life" of her ability to follow people with her eyes as she moves is an oddity, to say the least. Yet, it was with precision, passion, talent, form, and artistic ability that da Vinci was able to create this piece of work even though he considered it unfinished.
To me, the book of Numbers was the same as the Mona Lisa in a few ways. It also is a timeless word portrait of a living society. It was an artistic expression of our Creators plan for eventual salvation. The record of millions of people living and awaiting God's instruction to reach a Promise Land. It is a beautiful strategic plan for God's army of which I am descendant of. Yet, unlike daVinci, God knew his work of creation would not be unfinished but reach completion.
- As one loving genealogies, I have to admit it makes me a little curious as to which one of the "tribes", I was a descendant of. Not that it matters, but wouldn't it be interesting to know?
- I found Numbers reminding me of a special bond and care that God had for women. Some things seem so unfair and so judgmental against women but really God set up a plan for man to care for his wife. He also set up a plan to have care for widows, for husbandless daughters and young women. An authority not to oppress us but to support us. That was really encouraging to me, even with the somewhat questionable liberties of males during this time.
- I loved the blessing of the Priest. I love the image of Lord's face shining upon me or those I ask for him to bless. I should spend more time asking for God's grace, blessing and favor be upon those I love and care for. How much better would my world be if those I surrounded myself with were shining with the glory of God?
- I wonder if there is a significance to a man retiring at the age of 50? At this time, people were living to be around 100 or 120. God determined for them to work half their life but to be able to rest in their older years. Our society has this so wrong. We don't have provisions that are easily obtainable to work hard and then retire at this age and allow ourselves years to just be "helpers".
- Moses seemed to be confident in his relationship with God to be so bold. I love that Moses was able to honestly express his hardship and express why the burden he was carrying was too heavy and God immediately granted him a solution. God never intends for us to carry more than we can, but I guess this just reminded me that sometimes He expects us to ask for help.
Before Kaleb's dad disappeared he highlighted a verse in a bible for Kaleb. Since Kaleb's childhood's friend was named Joshua, he marked where Caleb and Joshua would be the men that entered into the promise land. I wish Kaleb would have had a the chance to see his father live out a faithful Christian life but that was not the case. However, I see this gesture just a simple glimpse of God's provision that my Kaleb would one day see the Promise Land. Kaleb's father, no matter what others say, did lay one foundation of a promise for his son in God's word and I think God honored that suggestion in making my Kaleb an amazing man! "But because my servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he went to and his descendants will inherit it".
How true, that my Kaleb also, has a different spirit that I am sure that God is pleased with.
- Even though Moses was told he would never enter into the Promise Land, I think he knew his real Promise Land was elsewhere. Why would he care to get there when he could get to heaven with God? He did not give up but seemed to continue to plan of God without complaining but with purpose.
- I don't understand why God had Moses make a snake. I know it later becomes an idol and it just seems like it gave something made of medal a symbol of power.
- I think the story of talking donkey is funny. Sometimes I guess God's sense of humor is so appropriate. With us calling the donkey a stubborn animal and donkey (or the other name for donkey) being a connotation of being difficult, it is quite comical that a donkey's voice was use to correct Balaam being difficult.
- The verse where it recaps the Israelites journey and states that they marched out BOLDLY in FULL VIEW of the Egyptians was a treasure to me. When God determines that his people (or me) has a purpose and is receiving a blessing from Him he will allow us to march out BOLDLY in front our enemy!
- Of all the things I struggled with in this chapter, really the amount of bloodshed still bothers me. I know God has purpose but it still seems so violent. I see God wiping away people with a blink of his eye but when he used man to do, it just impacts me to think why he wants man to do this?
Monday, February 14, 2011
Valentine - For My Daughter
Actually, this is for anyone that wonders if their Valentine will ever come. Is there really a prince charming? Is the idea of a fairytale nothing more than a good story?
Well, as I watched Kenadee write out her Valentine's for her classmates last night I was thinking of all the wonderful things that will come in her life. I also thought of how many times her heart might break BEFORE she finds her own true love. So this, my sweet baby girl, is for you:
NEVER settle for a man that does not treat you like you are his EVERYTHING! No amount of diamonds, roses, or chocolates will ever amount to the worth of a man who treats you like his princess.
A man worthy of being your Valentine, will treat you with respect, with care and most of all with a deep appreciation of who you are.
I have been in places where Valentine's Day was a day of butterflies in your tummy wondering if your "boyfriend" would bring you a special Valentine or send you a candy gram at school. I have been an adult and felt the same way, wondering not if I would get a gift but if someone would acknowlege me as their Valentine. I have also been madly in love with your Daddy and been treated the way I hope you will want to be treated. Settle for NOTHING less than someone who will cherish you,my baby girl.
Today, you saw your daddy make me dinner. Clean up the house. Shower me with beautiful roses, write a special card to me and bring me my favorite cookies. Yet, what you did not realize was that the most valuable thing was the sweet kiss he gave me and the hug that said "You will always be my Valentine".
Remember, the roses are beautiful but they will die.
The words in a card will last as a great memory but should be said more than once a year.
The sweetest cookie will fill your tummy but not your heart...
Wait...Take your time and your Valentine will come! God has someone chosen just FOR YOU! He will be your forever Valentine, like your Daddy is mine. A prince charming with whom you can live happily ever after with.
Well, as I watched Kenadee write out her Valentine's for her classmates last night I was thinking of all the wonderful things that will come in her life. I also thought of how many times her heart might break BEFORE she finds her own true love. So this, my sweet baby girl, is for you:
NEVER settle for a man that does not treat you like you are his EVERYTHING! No amount of diamonds, roses, or chocolates will ever amount to the worth of a man who treats you like his princess.
A man worthy of being your Valentine, will treat you with respect, with care and most of all with a deep appreciation of who you are.
I have been in places where Valentine's Day was a day of butterflies in your tummy wondering if your "boyfriend" would bring you a special Valentine or send you a candy gram at school. I have been an adult and felt the same way, wondering not if I would get a gift but if someone would acknowlege me as their Valentine. I have also been madly in love with your Daddy and been treated the way I hope you will want to be treated. Settle for NOTHING less than someone who will cherish you,my baby girl.
Today, you saw your daddy make me dinner. Clean up the house. Shower me with beautiful roses, write a special card to me and bring me my favorite cookies. Yet, what you did not realize was that the most valuable thing was the sweet kiss he gave me and the hug that said "You will always be my Valentine".
Remember, the roses are beautiful but they will die.
The words in a card will last as a great memory but should be said more than once a year.
The sweetest cookie will fill your tummy but not your heart...
Wait...Take your time and your Valentine will come! God has someone chosen just FOR YOU! He will be your forever Valentine, like your Daddy is mine. A prince charming with whom you can live happily ever after with.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Leviticus - Read Thru The Bible In A Year!
Well, I am few days late in posting; but really wanted to post what the book of Leviticus taught me this past few weeks. I think it is a book that I have ALWAYS read thru very quickly and skimming over. It was nice to break it down and really think it thru (well most parts).
First, my number one impression of Leviticus was that there were obviously as many idiots back then as there are today. Seriously, some things should not have to be said and should be common sense.
I am VERY thankful that we are not obligated to offer "sin offerings, fellowship offerings or grain offerings". God destined us all to live in the appointed time we live and I am pretty sure He knew this would not have worked for me. So much killing, so much blood ..... Yuck!
I understood more about why other religions practice what they do. Since I am still struggling on what MY responsibilies from old testament law are I will continue to pray this out.
Loved that God chose to put that being BALD was okay! So funny....
Was glad to learn that a sin offering for having children was not for "having children" as I had always thought. Without understanding the types of offerings I had always been perplexed by that verse.
I loved that God took the time to address the smallest of concerns. How much he does care for his people? It touches my heart to feel His love when reading his provisions for His people.
I was reminded that the world is still dealing with the same sins today that they were post Exodus. They human race just can't do it right without God. The destruction people will put upon themselves is unbelievable.
I am still wondering how sin was covered without Jesus. It was such a flawed system without the blood of Christ and the grace of God. I know God is not flawed but I am thankful. Just really sad again to know that it was not an animal that shed blood for me but Jesus. Very humbling...
My favorite verse this book was "Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God, I am the Lord". It is nice to be reminded how very important God thought of the elderly. I am blessed with some of the most awesome "young-elderly" in the world and I want to respect that.
Numbers is under way.....
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