Thankful Thursday

On this Thursday I am thankful for...

1) a break from my masters class for a little while. I have about 4 more semesters to go..man, that doesn't sound so long, definitely better than I have a year & a half to go!!

2) my job that allows me to take a Christmas break the same time as my kiddos. Definitely needed a break to recharge

3) a clean home. I spent today thoroughly cleaning my bedroom & some of my living room plus laundry, but oh it's so nice to look around my clean bedroom as I type this.

4) feeling tired but still have enough energy to get ready for bed. I have been content while I drift off to sleep for the first time in awhile..it's a great feeling

5) warmer weather days before it gets cold again. Gotta love the bipolar Texas weather. Sometimes I swear weather here has several personalities.

Blessings to you all!!


- just a small town girl on the go

Wordless Wednesday

Four years ago

Four years ago today God brought into our lives a little firecracker of a girl. She's made our family complete.




- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Thankful thursday

What I'm thankful for this Thursday..

1) watching movies with the kiddos today

2) a warm dinner shared with those I love

3) my hardworking hubby

4) a community program that reaches out to those in need in our town. I'm thankful to help out with it

5) Taking the kids to go see Santa this afternoon


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Long days...

I've heard that when raising children , you have long days but short years. I have to admit that sometimes my children stretch me. But there are days that seem almost perfect. Today we went to church & the kids sang several Christmas songs. Then we came home & spent the afternoon relaxing.

This evening the kids watched a movie together & then I laid down with each of them & Miss E fell asleep beside me. It's days like this that makes me wish I could slow down time. Make it just crawl so I can stretch out these moments with the ones I love.


- just a small town girl on the go

Wordless Wednesday

My little sheep in the play at school. She's the one in the middle, isn't she adorable!!






- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Christmas Is...

Christmas Is...

Christmas is being gathered around the Christmas tree Christmas Eve night listening to the story of the birth of Jesus. It’s about looking at those around you and thanking God that you are surrounded by family.

Christmas is reaching out and helping our brothers and sisters all around our community and this world. It’s about thanking the Lord for what you have and wanting to share it with those who do not.

Christmas is a kind word to a stranger, a blanket to those who are cold, a prayer for a loved one, a hug to a child that is hurting. It’s about loving others as much as the Lord loves you.

Christmas is remembering Christmas’s past where those we loved were still with us, a prayer for those who have to spend this time alone.  It’s about being grateful for those times with our loved ones that have gone, remembering those times with more laughter than tears.

Christmas is in a child’s laughter, in the kiss of your husband or wife, in an unexpected gift from a loved one. It’s about being in the moment with those you love and praising the Lord for the blessings He has bestowed upon you.

Christmas is in all these things; and it doesn’t end on December 25^th. The power and love of Christmas wasn’t contained in a tiny manger.  It reached out beyond a small stable and embraced the world. This year please remember the love and light that came to us that day long ago. Carry it out beyond these walls out into the world. Don’t pack away Christmas with the decorations, but carry Jesus’ light and love with you throughout the year. 

Little Blessings..

I have to say sometimes God just amazes me. Little blessings here and there He has bestowed upon me.

Monday was a no good bad day for a few reasons. Tuesday brought a blessing. A co-worker gave me an unexpected gift that I have been wanting for awhile. It was so thoughtful it almost made me cry. It was amazing that God gave her that thought and it was something I've been wanting for months now.

Today brought another blessing. I've been needing a new pair of black boots to wear to work. I thought of it this morning in passing. I've borrowed my mom's boots and I'm sure she is wanting them back. I walked into the lounge today to check and see if we had any mail. There was a box with some gently worn black boots for ten dollar that another coworker was selling. I nearly laughed out loud!!

Today I'm grateful for little blessings..

unexpected gifts..

unexpected deals...

the health and safety of my loved ones..

A warm fire to curl up to on these cold nights..

A frisky black kitten making me laugh..

Coffee and quite time with the Lord in the mornings..

A hug from my kids..

A kiss from my husband..

Thank you Lord for little blessings..

On A Sunday Morning..

I have to admit that this weekend my children were "stretching" me quite a bit. I've tried deep breathing techniques and counting to ten but I finally had to put myself in time out with a bubble bath and a book.  (Hey a mom's gotta do what a mom's gotta do)

To share a funny story with you, and I'm sure you've got a few of your own, my daughter Miss E stretched me at church yesterday morning. My children had been set up to acolyte at church. This involves carrying a device that has a very small candle sticking out the end (I'm sorry I don't know the name of it) that is lit down the aisle at church to light the candles on the alter. Really you can think of the mass problems that could occur of some little ladies hairspray going up in flames because a kid swung to far to the right or left. My son is old enough and has done it enough times, he is ok to do it by himself, but Miss E is still  little green. Well the whole way down the aisle, she kept repeating "Momma, I wanna do it myself!!" By the time we got to the alter to light the candles, (another disaster waiting to happen since there is all kinds of decorative fire hazards on the alter) she was very upset I wouldn't let go of the candle and let her do it herself.I told her I had to help her so we wouldn't knock anything over.

So in front of the whole congregation my sweet, beautiful daughter threw herself on the floor in front of the alter in a fit of impatience. I did the only thing I could do, I snuffed the device with the flame on the end out, turned to the congregation and shrugged to them with a grin as they giggled, and picked up my little drama queen and carried her back down the aisle. The trip down to snuff the candles on the alter out and carry the light out was much less dramatic.

Then during the children's sermon the leader asked the children if any of their parents say "Hurry up, we're going to be late!" My son looked at me with a smirk and I sent a prayer up that he wouldn't say anything to embarrass his mother any further. He does have great one liners that seem to come out during children's sermon. He turned back to the leader and said "Yes she does but not in a loud voice." The leader laughed and said "Well she has a lot of patience" which caused more giggles from the congregation.

So there was my exciting time at church yesterday. I have to say, although my kids stretch me at times. I wouldn't trade them for anything in the world. And this will make a great story when my daughter starts to date, and I can say "Remember the time you threw yourself in front of the alter at church???"

Thankful Thursday

On this first day of December I'm so thankful for many things..

Grilled cheese sandwiches after a night of working late..

A playful black kitten that keeps us all entertained, especially when trying to climb our Christmas tree...

Crawling into bed after a long day..

An unexpected gift from my hubby, another cross to hang on my wall...

and finally, listening to a few Christmas songs to get me in the spirit!!

Wordless Wednesday

First tooth lost!!! Such a big boy!!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Christmas Season

Well it is so hard to believe but the Christmas season is here! It is knocking on the door, it is peeking around the corner. I can't believe 2011 is drawing to a close. The year has flown by.

I have read several different articles and blog posts about being present during this holiday season. I've felt lately that something is trying to drag me away from my family by pressing darkness around me. And I don't like it. So during this Christmas season I think I'll focus on the light to keep the darkness at bay. I'll focus on the light of the Christmas star, of the twinkling lights that remind me of Christmas' past, the light and warmth of our Lord and Savior.

I'll focus on the light from the candles lit during candlelight service at our church, the songs from my daughters lips as she sings songs she learned at school, the unexpected hug from my son, the laugh of my husband. Yes all these things surround me with the kind of light that can help me fight the darkness. But the one that shines the brightest is the one that comes from my Abba, my Father, my Lord.

Wishing you warmth and light this holiday season!!

Thanksgiving Blessings

As I went around the house yesterday cleaning up toys and vacuuming and putting things up for what seemed like the 100th time, a thought occurred to me.

I am blessed to have toys to pick up because that means I have children that have made my life joyful. My heart aches for women who want children more than anything in the world, and are unable for whatever reason to have them.

I am blessed to have laundry to do because that means that my family has clothes to wear and keep us warm.

I am blessed to have floors to clean and shelves to dust because this means that I have a home to shelter me and keep our family safe from the elements and to build a haven for our family.

I am blessed to have dishes to clean because this means that my family has food to eat and gather around a table to talk about our day and laugh.

So Lord, help me to remember as I clean to not grumble about the dishes I have to do, the laundry that needs to be folded, or the sticky floors that need to be cleaned. Because you have blessed my family. But also help to remember when to not worry about cleaning, and having a picked up home when my husband or children need a compassionate ear, a loving touch, or to just sit and build memories.

Friday Favorites

Although I'm thankful for many things this Thanksgiving, my family, my husband, my friends, my job, our home...the list could go on. But today I received the pictures that a woman in town took. All of the family pictures that are below were taken by Tracy Cox. She did a wonderful job and I absolutely love each and every one!!

Seven Years Ago Today

Seven years ago today I gave birth to my firsborn. This eight pound 1 oz baby boy came into this world amid some excitement. Not only did he feel stubborn and didn't want to come out, he also arrived during one of the worst thunderstorms of the year. Even though he was born in a very exciting way. He's the most laid back, easygoing, smartest, loving kid I've ever met. God blessed me with a wonderful son that I love very much. Today we had a very low key day. We got up and hung out at the house, and we had just family over to celebrate Mr. L's birthday. The first picture is of Mr. L at his class Friday when we took some snacks to celebrate his birthday. His teacher allows the kids to stand on their desks while the other kids sing happy birthday. I got to go and hand out the snacks, and take pictures while they sang. I'm so grateful my job allows me to be close to my kids. I'm so thankful for my handsome son, who brings me more joy than he'll ever know.

Thankful Thursday

Two of my favorite people in the whole world..


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Attitude

Lord,
I want my attitude to be one of love for you. I want to wake up and see the world anew each day.I don't want to get down about the bad things I see in this world or the negative forces that try to pull me down. I want to be able to see each day for what it is..a gift from You.

A gift to open my eyes and see the beauty in the fall leaves changing colors.

A gift to hear my children giggling at a funny comment I made.

A gift to hear my husband work with our son on his homework. (Makes me LOVE him even MORE)

A gift to have a fire in the fireplace this chilly fall night.

A gift to have a job I love that I am constantly learning at.

A gift to spend a morning with the just the Lord, a cup of coffee, and a blanket.

There are too many gifts to name Lord, but I am so glad you provide them all for me.

Love,
Harmony

Wordless Wednesday

My Favorite Boy got glasses today. He looks so handsome!!!

In Response to How Are You Really???

This morning as I was reading a devotional, I had an insight. I was reading an article from (in)courage website that was entitled “How are You, Really?” and hit home. It was about a woman who asked her friend “How are you, really?” and the friend let it all go. As I sat there reading it, not only did I long to be able to be able to do that with someone as well as for someone. But then I started thinking about my life and wondering, How I doing, really? To be honest with myself, I’m overwhelmed and tired, and long for something to connect me to my life.

Don’t get me wrong, I love my husband and kids I wouldn’t trade them for the world. But the only time I feel completely at peace is when I immerse myself in the Lord’s word. I strive to be so many things, a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, an employee, a student…the list could go on from there.  But as I sit daily asking for God to make me better in those areas, I had a light bulb moment. Or maybe it was an angel knocking me in the head.

I don’t need to strive in these areas any longer. If I follow God and His word, His teachings, and listen to His will, then He will make me better in those areas.  We cannot do things by our own will, they have to come through God. 

Isaiah 41:10

“ So do not fear, for I am with you;
   do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
   I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Exodus 15:2

 “The LORD is my strength and my defense;
   he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
   my father’s God, and I will exalt him.”

So from now on, instead of asking daily to make me better in the different areas of my life, I will ask the Lord to create me to be the woman that He wants me to be. As I grow into this woman, all these other aspects in my life will fall into place. By being with the Lord, and walking with Him, I will be better in these other facets of my life. There is no need for me to strive or agonize over how I feel I’m not measuring up. Only through the Lord, our God, can make me into the woman he has intended me to be. 

Proverbs 31 Woman Was Onto Something..

I understand now why the Proverbs 31 woman rose early to prepare for the day and spend time with the Lord. I woke up early this morning and since the kids were already up, I took my Bible and coffee onto the front porch. I sat with my devotionals ad bible in the coolness of the morning. I heard the wind softly blow through the trees, the doves talk to each other, and  our kitties on the front porch purr in contentment. Very few cars were driving down our street so it was just nature and me.

As I sat there feeling close to the Lord and all that He created, several things pressed up my heart to pray for:

Lord, I ask that you make me fruitful today, to get done what needs to be done, to "roll up my sleeves, eager to get started" in the day. Yesterday was my day of rest, nap and all, so now today is time to get some things done. Lord I ask that you be with me through the week at work and at home to make choices that are in line with your Word.Lord I ask for your guidance and favor to be with my husband. Lead him Lord, and help him to grow into the man you have made him to be. Promote him as you see fit, Lord, for you have made us all to succeed.

Lord, I ask for your guidance in making our home a haven, a sanctuary, a place where we love to be. Lord, help me to learn to crave you, and not food or possessions or anything else but you. Yes, I completely understand why the Proverbs 31 rose early to prepare for her day. Because time alone with the Lord is the only way to strengthen you for the day.

Have a wonderful week!!

Awwww relaxation...

Even though I have homework due today and tomorrow that I am working on, I have to say this has been a relaxing weekend so far.  Last night my mom came over to watch the kids while Damon and I went to the country club to have pizza and drinks with some friends for a friend's birthday. We are such an old married couple, we were home before 9 but had a blast while we were there.

Then today we slept in, (well as much as you can with two kids saying Momma...Momma) and then I went to the grocery store and came home. Then I took a nap and now it's time to get back to homework. Tomorrow it's church, and that's all we have planned. This is the first weekend in months that we don't have SOMETHING planned to do and I have to say it's been pretty nice so far.

I think these weekends should be the rule, not the exception, and I know with the holidays coming up it's going to get harder not to have something going on every weekend. But I'd like to try to only have one thing scheduled during a weekend, or nothing at all to allow us as a family to decompress and relax instead of going...going...going. Like right now, the kids are playing in the backyard and I'm sitting inside with a purring kitten next to me. Life is going along pretty good right now.

Link to Women Living Well

I follow this blog and because she can say it more eloquently than I can about what I feel about blogging, I'm just going to link up to her http://goo.gl/gkxbh. Here's to glorifying God with Blogging...

An Awesome Mom

I receive this email in my inbox and thought I would share it with you..


You are an Awesome Mom
Colleen O'Grady
"I want you to know I am proud of you and you are an awesome mom."
Wouldn't it be great if someone told you that every day? How would you feel if you really believed it?
"You are an awesome mom!"
It feels good doesn't it?
I have listened to moms for over 20 years and I have never heard a mom say, "I am a great mom and I am really proud of myself."
I hear Moms say, "no one appreciates me or all I do for my family."
Your husband or kids may answer back, "Yes I do," but you don't believe them because they have no idea how much you do. And for sure they don't know what's in your heart, and how much you worry and pray for your kids.
But if a friend says, "You are a great mom," what do you do with that? Can you receive the compliment and believe it. Most mothers slough it off when it is given. You think, "She has no idea".
Why is that?
I don't think you appreciate yourself and all you do.
Deep down you think you're not doing a good job. Being a mother is hard. It's easy to doubt your decisions around parenting. And you have an unrealistic job description placed on you by the culture.
Mother's are supposed to be perfect. Right?
We are supposed to have perfect children, perfect house, perfect spouse, and have a perfect body.
Perfect is not happening! You can't be perfect in all these areas at the same time. Believe me we all try. You wear yourself out running here and there, morning to night and at the end of the day you are convinced you are the biggest loser. And not in the good (Biggest Losers TV show) way.
The message "A great mom is a perfect mom" you inherited from the culture. I call this a Powerless Parenting Message. Because when you believe this you feel powerless and are totally set up to feel like a failure.
You may have had a good day with your daughter, your house is clean, but if you've gained 2 pounds and your whole day is ruined.
This message robs you of ever celebrating what you do accomplish. Having a good day with your daughter and a partially clean house is worth celebrating.
Now this gets amplified if you have a hot headed adolescent daughter who is not getting her way. Your daughter is skilled with psychological weapons and knows how to shoot her arrow into your vulnerability.
She speaks out your worst fear. "You are a terrible mother."
This can knock the wind out of you. You feel like you're the witch in the wizard of oz. Your daughter has just thrown a bucket of water on you and all you can say is, "I'm melting".
Your power and confidence will melt when you believe her words. Combine this with wanting to be the perfect mother, and you will shrink and disappear into the black hole of Mother Shame.
The truth is you are usually doing your job when those comments fly at you. My guess is you just told your daughter, "No, you can't stay out till 2am." "No, you can't spend the night at your boyfriend's house." "No, you can't get a tattoo of your boyfriend's name on your chest."
You are doing a great job when you set a boundary with your daughter. Just know when your daughter says "You are a terrible mother," it really means "I am angry at you because you are not giving me what I want".
A Great Mom does not equal a perfect mom.
A Great Mom does not equal pleasing everyone at all times.
We need a new definition of a Great Mom.
1. Accepts her imperfections.
A Great Mom...

• Knows the goal is not to be perfect.
• Is kind to herself and therefore can be kind to others.
• Is self aware and knows where she has crossed the line.
• Admits her mistakes and says she is sorry.
• Doesn't give up and wants to grow.

2. Strives to do her best.

• Focuses on learning from her mistakes.
• Wants to improve herself and her parenting.
• Willing to change when things aren't working.
• Is teachable and open to learning new approaches.
• Keeps trying and starts again.

3. Knows her limitations and receives help.

• Knows she needs to take care of herself which means getting enough physical and emotional rest.
• Takes time to enjoy her life and her daughter.
• Knows there is way too much and she needs help.
• Receives help and builds a team of support around her and her daughter.
• Leans on God and prayer for help.

4. Accepts her kids imperfections

• Knows the goal for her kids is not perfection but healthy striving.
• Has hope for her kids and encourages them.
• Knows they can learn from their mistakes and take responsibility and develop empathy.
• Shows her kids by example how to strive for the best and learn from your mistakes.

5. Remembers the important things

• Loves her kids and remembers they are a gift.
• Remembers it's not going to be perfect 24/7.
• Aware of opportunities to hang out and enjoy her kids.
• Teaches them compassion and forgiveness.
• Sets boundaries and give consequences without shame.
• Sees the God given potential in her children.

Believe this new definition.
You are an awesome mom!






Colleen O'Grady is a licensed marriage and family therapist, life coach, speaker, writer, and a mother of a teenage daughter. She specializes in helping moms of teenage daughters. Colleen rejects the message, "of just making it through the teenage years." She believes the teenage years can be the most gratifying and enjoyable years with your daughter. Yes there are challenges but when you understand how teenage girls are wired you can avoid countless hours of drama and needless suffering. Sign up for Colleen's FRE*E subscription to the Power Your Parenting E-zine to get practical tips and encouragement.
You can click here.

Weekend Wrap Up

This weekend was so much fun.

Friday night we didn't have to do anything..nada...did I mention nothing?? So we came home after school, made dinner, and spent some time at the house. I was in my pajamas at 8pm and I was so loving it. It was character dress up day at school and Mr Lwent as a Navy Seal. Here we are at the Pep Rally at school.

Saturday we woke up and took the boat to the mechanic. We stopped at a park and had a picnic. Went and saw Puss in Boots at the movie theater. Which I would recommend getting their early enough where your not wondering around a dark theater. We almost set in someone's lap. Whoops!! It was a really cute movie and we really enjoyed it.  Here is a picture of Mr. L and Miss E playing at the park.

We then drove to a nearby town where they have a business that has giant blow up slides, obstacle courses and  giant blow up trampoline. The kids had an absolute blast!! As did someone else I know...

 Yes, Damon had a blast as well. We had a great day spent with the family. 

Then today we all went to a church as a family.  We were joined by my bro-in-law, sis-in-law, her daughter, and grandson. It was so nice to have everyone there. We also had a special treat, a wonderful woman who recently moved to our town played the harp during the service. I've never heard a harp in real life, and it was absolutely beautiful. The message was wonderful and then we had a fellowship dinner afterward. All in all I had a wonderful weekend. 

Thankful Thursday

Today on a Thursday I'm thankful for...

This cold, rainy weather that makes potato soup and grilled cheese sooo good.

The good word of the Lord that knows exactly what I need to get me through the day.

A new Shape magazine in the mailbox...that's always a nice surprise

My hubby who is very resourceful and was able to make dog tags for Mr. L's Halloween costume and buy a pair of camo pants for three dollars. He's pretty handy to have around.

A mentor and friend that I can go to and tell her about anything going on in my life and she can give me good, solid advice.

For Granted

For Granted

I cry out for someone to save me

This world has beat me down again with

Its negativity, hatred, apathy, and sorrow

But I come to the realization as I wipe away my tears

That I have taken my blessings for granted

This body you game me Lord

I’ve mistreated by lack of sleep by being too busy to

Take care of this gift of life.

I’ve taken the blessing of my husband for granted by

Not giving my time and love to him.

I’ve taken the blessing of my children for granted by

Not enjoying these special years while they are young.

Lord, I confess my apathy and selfishness has blocked

My sight to see the blessings you have graciously given to me.

Lord forgive me for this, and help to walk each day

Renewed by your love and peace

Give me your sight to see the people around me hurting

So I can wrap my arms around them

Let my eyes see the blessings that You have poured out on me.

Lord, I ask for your love to be shown to others through me. 

Saturday fun

This morning was soo much fun!!


Mr L's team scored their first two goals of the soccer season!!! It was so much fun & so exciting. The kids were ecstatic!! It was a blessing to be there.

Today we have a full day. Mr L will be going to a nursing home with scouts today to help build crafts & decorations. Then hubby & I are going to a wedding of a friend's daughter. I can't wait to see friends this evening & have fun!!!

Tomorrow is church, a shower for my cousin, and a book study with a women's group. Oh and hope the Dallas cowboys win some football!!!


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

A slower, small town pace...

It’s been a busy…busy…busy week…

I was reminded this week that my family and I need to SLOOOOWWW things down. With school for the kids, my masters program for me, sports, boy scouts, cleaning, cooking, and the ever list of things to do, I believe we are BURNED OUT!!!

So this momma has taken matters into her own hands. Well, I wouldn’t necessarily say that, how about I’m putting some things into someone’s hands that can actually do something with them. I’m giving it over to God and we shall see what he can do with our schedule.

The last two nights we’ve had little to do. We went and ate with my family for my mom’s birthday and played board games. Then last night the kids helped out around the house while my hubby did “honey do’s” and then the kids played outside while I finished dinner. It was amazing to have everything done by 8pm and be sitting down in my chair. I was almost speechless.

I downloaded a book and I’m reading it for ways to slow my family down where we aren’t quiet so fast paced. It’s called Not So Fast by Ann Kroeker and has some wonderful ideas in it that I would recommend to any family. One thing she points out is that are lives are not defined by our “to-do lists.” Our lives are not the sum of anything that we can accomplish in a given amount of time. One thing that is pointed out in the book is that we tend to put more on our plate that we think we can do. I know I tend to do it!! So they mentioned to imagine your day as a beautiful plate, and divide it into three sections that you want. Three things that will help the day go more smoothly and get things together for your family. 

I hope to let people know about the progress of this little experiment. I’m hoping it will help our family come closer together as well as bring us closer to God. 

Sitting with my Father

I wake up and see that the sun hasn't yet broken the night completely
The moon and a star are gracefully singing their swan song in the sky
The lake is as smooth and serene as a picture hanging in a loving home
The birds call out to each other in a melody designed by God himself.
I sit by this beauty you have designed Lord and I am filled with wonder
That you designed this all with your loving hands for us to enjoy.
I read your words that you poured out to us and say my prayers
Asking for my Daddy to heal the hurts of those around me.
I sit in my Father's lap and pour out my troubles to him as He
Listens with a loving ear and a warm heart.
I end by singing a song that has pressed itself on my heart
About going down to the river to pray studying the good old way
Oh Lord how I wish I could wear the robe and crown, please
My Father, my Daddy, show me the ways to walk in your steps
To see those around me as you see them, as beloved children of you.

- just a small town girl on the go

Wordless Wednesday

Sick kiddo at home playing on iPad


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Terrific Tuesday

Today has been a terrific Tuesday. I got several things done at work, and received a gift certificate to a local restaurant from a co-worker as a thank you that will allow me not to cook tonight after a soccer game. ;)

I got a power nap at lunch and I have so much more energy this afternoon.

We received nearly 5 inches of rain this weekend that was much needed in our drought-ridden area. The Lord is SO GOOD!! Also fall has popped it's head up here, so it's been cooler in the mornings and I love it. Mr. L's soccer team played a good, exciting game and then we went out and have Italian for dinner. Yummy!!

It's been a good Tuesday!!


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Queens

This weekend I was blessed to go to a retreat with several wonderful ladies. After feeling the Holy Spirit in that place this weekend and being released of several things that were holding me back, I spent time with several other women from my hometown. As we sat sharing several things about our lives, our worries, just everything, inspiration hit me. Or should I say the Holy Spirit hit me. I've always wanted to be a writer, ever since I was young. I've written stories and poems for people I know but never really shared it with anyone. Last night I came back to my room and I had words rattling around my head. I grabbed a notebook and a pencil and wrote the following:

Queens

Lord, we confess we’ve hung on so tightly to things that are familiar

We’ve gripped tem to our chest like a child with a favorite toy

That they know will be taken away

But the things that we’ve hung onto can cause us so much pain, Lord.

We’ve hung onto our fear of an unknown we can’t name

We’ve clung to the unwillingness to allow a growing child to spread their wings

We’ve tightened our hear around a fear that your blessings could be snatched away

We confess that we harbor anger towards you for loved ones that you took home

Before we could fully understand why

But Lord we can let all that go…

For you know our days and nights and have a plan for each of us

You have given us a special gift of a child that we have to release to you

So they can blossom with your love

We need to let go and accept your blessings and know you have great things in store for us

We let go of our anger, because our loves ones are with you Lord

And although we can’t hold them now, we know you had planned their days long ago.

And we will dance and sing with them again one day, Lord.

We let go of all these things Lord, we release them from our hands and our hearts

Thank you God for loving us so much to send your son to die for our sins

Thank you God for giving us your guidance as we travel along this road as sisters, mothers, daughters, as

 Queens

On the Kitchen Floor

My sweet, lovely daughter woke up at 7am this morning. Ick!!! Although I should be grateful for small blessings because yesterday she was up at 5:30 am. The one problem, ok there are many issues with my child waking up so early on the weekend, but we'll bypass those, is that I usually like to have time to myself in the mornings.

Just me & the Lord, that's what I need to keep my head screwed on straight. So since Miss Priss derailed that plan I hid in the kitchen, on the floor to have my devotional time. After reading my devotionals I picked up a book "What Women Fear" by Angie Smith. The (in)courage will be having a book club online about the book.

I have to say I received it on Friday and I am already half way through it. It is a wonderful book that helps women with their fears and faith in God. One thing that struck me during the book was the story of Hagar is banished by Abraham. The scripture Genesis 21:19 states that "then God opened her eyes & she saw the well of water." the author, Angie Smith points out that Hagar's circumstances didn't change, but her awareness did. That means that sometimes we get so blinded by the worst possible scenario, we don't see the blessings that are right in front of us.

What a revelation!!! I had to look it up in my own bible just to be sure. What if I change my awareness to include all the blessings that God has placed before me, and not be blinded by the what-ifs, and the worst cases. That's what I'm going to strive for.


- just a small town girl on the go

Just two dollars..

This week we are a little "financially challenged" as I told my husband. Between a dentist office visit out of town and some unexpected bills, I didn't even have two dollars to pay for "hat day" at Mr. L's school. You would get to wear a hat if you brought $1 to go towards a charity to benefit kids with cancer.  I was going to give them two dollars, one for me and one for Mr. L. I prayed to God to just help me get two dollars to give at school.

The next morning I was getting ready and reached my hand into my laundered jeans pocket. There in the pocket was $2. What funny things God does sometimes!!!

Wordless Wednesday

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

What to know...

I wrote this for a friend's baby shower today..

Some things to know….


You’ve never known love till you see that baby smile…

You’ve never seen heaven on earth to you see that baby for the first time...

Your world becomes larger and smaller at the same time as you try to protect your baby from everything in the world…

Your baby’s laugh will be more beautiful than any song you’ve ever heard…

You’ll run on adrenaline, caffeine, and love the first few years, because the Lord knows you don’t sleep…

Get down on your knees and pray, often, you can’t do it all without the help of the good Lord above…

You will have a whole new respect and empathy for the woman trying to corral her kids at the supermarket…you will be her one day…

Always remember that you are a woman and not only a mother…nurture that part of your soul…

Start each day with prayers and the Bible…it will restore your soul and prepare you for the days ahead…

Always remember that they will not be young forever, cherish each day that the Lord gives you, and love the moment of life you are in…

Have fun with your children, laugh much and often, and your home can be a haven.

“Love is patient…Love is kind” 1 Corinthians 13:4


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Amazing

Sometimes I feel as though I'm on a roller coaster & no one stops it to let me off.

Anyone knows that times are getting tough with costs on everything going up & pay is not going up with it. But just when I think I'm going to throw myself on the floor & cry, the good Lord comes through.

He comes through with an unexpected gift..

He comes through with good news on a friend's surgery...

He comes through with a giggle from my Kids to remind me of the joys of this life..

He's teaching me so much, & sometimes I have to stop & breathe in order to catch it all.

This life is too short. I choose to be positive & choose joy, & choose my Lord.


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Wordless Wednesday

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Marvelous Monday

It's been a marvelous Monday..

I got up early and went to the gym and worked out..

I had a good Monday including a funny email fist thing from my dear cousin...

Got to hold a beautiful baby boy today. One of my best friends had a baby that's a little over a week old. and I went over to see all of them. But I mainly just went to hold the baby :)

We had a busy day running here and there and had a blast doing it, but I can't imagine it doing it on my own. I'm so lucky to have a great hubby who helps me out.

After dinner I put Miss E down and read her five little monkeys jumping on a bed. She loved and laughed at me doing the voices of the momma and the doctor.Then she read it to me..it was so sweet.

I then walk past my son's room and my hubby is reading a story to my son.

I am so blessed right now. My life is pretty perfect...

Happy Birthday Daddy

Today my father would have been 53 years old. I often wonder what he would look like today. When I was 17 he passed away from a heart attack.

I would have loved to have listened to that silly laugh of his as he played with his grandkids.

I would have loved to sit around the table as he told embarrassing stories on me to my husband and kids.

I would have loved to have him pull me in his arms and tell me how proud he was of me when I graduated college.

I would have loved to have had him walk me down the aisle at my wedding.

I would have loved to see his face when he first laid eyes on his grandchildren.

I would have loved to see him and my mother grow old together.

I would have loved to learn more from him as I grew older.

I loved that he blessed me with so many good memories.

I loved staying up way past my bed time when younger to listen to records of different kinds of music with my father.

I loved eating his great buttersauce and his cooking that was great....most of the time. :)

I loved how he was so proud of me.

I love his loud, crazy, loving family he brought me into, and all that they do for me and teach me.

Thank you for all that you did for me Daddy. I know you're watching over us now and you're hanging out with all the great musicians you used to listen to in heaven.

Wordless wednesday

Grandparents day lunch






- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Busy, busy, busy

I've heard other moms talking about how busy it gets when your kids are in school, well I believe it now!!

Mr L is in Tiger scouts, soccer, it's homecoming week, & homework, Oh my!!

Miss E has started pre-k and is learning at a rate so fast it's scary! She was so proud because she learned how to spell her name.

Plus housework, laundry, cooking & my homework. But I'm blessed to have laundry to do because I have clothes to wear, a home to clean, food to eat. ;)



- just a small town girl on the go

Marvelous Monday

I'm going to say it was a Marvelous Monday...but it was a trying, tiring one at that. I'm going to keep a positive attitude although, this day has caused a lot of self reflection on my part.

1) Woke up late - which put all of us late. But it made me realize I need to re-evaluate things once again and try to get more done in the evenings.

2) It was a crazy Monday at work, but I kept a smile on my face and did my work.

3) I didn't really feel like it, but went to the gym and ran/walked 3 miles since I officially started training for a half marathon in 21 weeks. I felt like I had accomplished something when I walked out of there.

4) Crock pot roast turned out ok, but not as good as I would like it, so next time I need to do something differently, or get a different cut of meat.

5) Got some of my textbook read while sitting in a chair with my favorite girl.

6) Both kids in bed at a remotely decent hour.

7) Realized that I need to focus more on my family and my home, because besides the good Lord above, those are the most important things in my life, and I need to make sure I treat them that way.

8) Need to take time in the morning to have time with the Lord, because it helps me stay centered.

Well I better go so I can get some rest and do some homework...

Forgivess

Today during church our Pastor gave a sermon on forgiveness and especially what it meant on today, the tenth anniversary of September 11th. The scripture was the parable of the Unforgiving Servant.

Matt 18:23-35  Therefore the Kingdom of Heaven is like a certain king, who wanted to reconcile accounts with his servants.  When he had begun to reconcile, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents.  But because he couldn’t pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, with his wife, his children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.  The servant therefore fell down and kneeled before him, saying, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will repay you all!’  The lord of that servant, being moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt.  "But that servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, who owed him one hundred denarii, and he grabbed him, and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe!’  "So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will repay you!’  He would not, but went and cast him into prison, until he should pay back that which was due.  So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were exceedingly sorry, and came and told to their lord all that was done.  Then his lord called him in, and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt, because you begged me.  Shouldn’t you also have had mercy on your fellow servant, even as I had mercy on you?’   His lord was angry, and delivered him to the tormentors, until he should pay all that was due to him.  So my heavenly Father will also do to you, if you don’t each forgive your brother from your hearts for his misdeeds."

When I got home I started thinking...is there any unforgiveness in my life I need to let go, or need to let go of one more time? Some forgiveness is harder to give than others.

Forgive a person for saying something mean to me....they may have been having a bad day or had other problems in their life.

Forgive my husband for something he said that cut me deep, he was frustrated over something at work and lashed out. He apologized later and explained why he was so short.

Forgive my father for leaving so early in my life. I was only 17 when the good Lord took him home, and it took me a long time to let go of the anger I had about the whole situation
.
I once heard that forgiveness is not about the other person, it's about the person that is forgiving. Hanging onto hurt, anger, and despair can only poison yourself and your relationships.  So on September 11th I ask that everyone that needs to forgive will to allow healing into their hearts.

Wordless Wednesday

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

They grow up too fast!!

Today was my baby girl's first day of pre-k. Where does the time go?!?!








I can't believe that she is old enough to be in pre-k.







My two precious blessings. Today was a not so subtle reminder to slow down & count each moment, before they slip through my fingers.


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Thankful Thursday

What I'm thankful for on this thursday...

5. Singing "This Is the Stuff" by Fransesca Batistilli on my way to work this morning.

4. A spiritual momma who knows just what to say to help me through some rough times.

3. Great friends

2. My job where I work with great people & be near my kids

1. The Lord up above who is stretching & molding me to be who He wants me to be.



- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Devotional

If you can read it this was my devotional earlier in the week. It's amazing how God will give me encouragement when I need it.




- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Fabulous Friday

Well it's been a fast paced week!!

Wednesday not only was the first day of school for my new first grader, we took our daughter to open house at the pre-k she will start in another week. (Allow momma a moment to sniffle and wonder where the time has gone???)  Since then we've tried to perfect bed times, waking up earlier, and getting places on time. So far we've mastered none at this time.

Right now I'm listening to two little boys and one big kid (aka my Husband) play video games. It's kind of fun to see how excited the boys get at the game. Landon's got a friend over that's spending the night.

Well I better go because I gotta work the gate at the football game tonight, then tomorrow I'm taking Landon and his friend out to get a uniform for scouts, and then hopefully not much after that but some good family time before my classes start again on Monday.

Have a great weekend, and God Bless!!

First day of first grade

My big first grader!!!





- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Thankful for the rain

Rainstorms are God's songs
With the soft pitter-patter of the first drops
To the sound of the wall of water as it rolls in
With the bass of the thunder.

The melodies of the birds as they play in the rain
The snare of the rain hitting the tin roof
The harmonies of the wind
And the sound of the cars splashing through the puddles

What a beautiful sound God has created
A song no one can equal
As prayers are answered
And life renews

- just a small town girl on the go

Wordless Wednesday

-

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

One Life to Love

I think this song is an older song by 33miles a Christian band, but I discovered it today and fell in love. It' been on repeat since I downloaded it onto my phone.

One Life To Love

He never thought he cared so much about the minute hand
Until he started praying for, a second chance
If he could only do it all again
He'd trade the long nights that he spent behind his desk
For all he missed

He tells his wife "I wish that this moment in this room was not me dying, but just spending a little time with you."

You only get just one time around
You only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life...
To love....

She never thought she cared so much about those little hands
That held on tight the day she left
Til she was scared to death
Sitting all alone on a hotel bed, the end of the road
The sun had set on her big plans
Find More lyrics at www.sweetslyrics.com 
To feel young again

She picks up the phone, dials the number, hears that little voice
That's haunted every single mile, since she made that choice

You only get just one time around
You only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life...
To love............

You only get just one time around
Only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life........
One ride, one try, one life........
To love....
To love....
mmmmmm......




What a song to remind you how short this life is and how each moment is precious...

Oh Summer Where Have you Gone?!?

I can't believe in a few weeks the kids will be starting school!! It's just crazy how fast this summer has flown by. Can we start over?!? I've been MIA from the blogging world because my two classes, kids, hubby, and house has taken over my life. But hope to be back now... Here are just a few photo reminders of our summer.. We've had a blast!!

Father's day road trip to see my father & Damon's dad burial sites

Playing at the lake memorial day weekend

Just me

My grandmother's 80th Birthday - 4 generations of women (plus Landon)

Me & the sis-in-law after playing on the lake

Matching pedicures Mommy & Daughter

Miss Thing Ready for the Lake Trip

My Beautiful Girl

Rocking the Summer Mohawk

Just hanging out at the park

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Weekend wrapup

This weekend we went camping with my in-laws & our kids. We went tubing behind the boat, swimming, boating & fishing, going down a huge downhill waterslide & hanging out with the family.





Me & the Sis-in-law after a day on the lake




My little man playing at the playground




Miss E & our nephew Playing




Our sunset view


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone