Ridiculous Resolutions

My son's morning tweet says "Time to consider my New Year's resolution. My current top three are to start smoking, gain 240 lbs, or befriend a lion." He got me thinking of other ridiculous resolutions.


I have never heard anyone say, this year I will...

• spend less quality time with my family.
• forget about budget and planning. It's the year to spend, spend, spend.
• focus less on others and focus instead on ME! After all, I AM amazing!!!
• start hoarding!

I don't make any resolutions at all. Not really. Instead, I look at the new year as an opportunity. A clean slate to make better, wiser choices than I did in the year before. I do ask God for help, with a simple end-of-year prayer: 


Dear God, Please show me the parts of me that need to change. How can I live healthier, wiser and more lovingly? Amen

Then I listen.

Last year, God reminded me that I have never read the entire Bible. I started that journey -- and I've only made it through the book of Exodus. It's not that I don't read the Bible daily. I do. (Almost) As I read, though, I find myself cross-referencing verses and dwelling on passsages for days. That's the way God wired me, so I'll keep plugging along. Maybe I'll finish the next three books in 2012!

How about you? Do you have a resolution, ridiculous or not? Share yours in the comments below.

Happy new year, everyone!

Love,

Peace at Christmas

I'm having a tough time with Christmas posts this year. I had a plan -- I loved my plan. But life interrupted. Not the fun life of bows, wrapping, songs, baking, movies, playing. Our Christmas was interrupted by real life. Painful lessons we all must learn but no one really wants to go through. What happened isn't really important to this post. (If you're curious, sorry... That is a story for another day.) What we learned from it is priceless.

1. Christmas is NOT about gifts! We spend so much time shopping, paying, wrapping, stressing... over gifts. I'm learning this year how very misguided that really is. What if you had no family to buy gifts for? What if you were all alone this Christmas?

2. Treasure the gift of family! We take each other for granted. We focus on "my" instead of "our" or "you." Am I really going to have to listen to Uncle George's pontifications again? Or deal with Grandma's snide comments all day long? Whatever... is it really so bad to put up with that for one day? Instead of focusing on the one person who drives you crazy, why not take time to look at the blessing of family. What joy have these people brought into your life? How have they put up with you, despite your flaws and imperfections? Be thankful your family loves you in spite of you!

3. Remember the Prince of Peace! Christmas is the celebration of our Savior's birth, but Jesus didn't come down here as a baby and stay that way. He came and grew into a man, to preach and teach -- in word and action -- of God's love, forgiveness, hope and peace. Christmas is simply where the gift begins. Will you receive his gift -- relationship with him that covers all your sin and leads to eternal life?

This Christmas more than any other, Jesus' peace is the gift I most cherish. My heart has been so heavy, but His peace is filling me and comforting me.

Whatever burdens or hurts you carry this Christmas, I pray you will know that Jesus was born for you. He wants to fill your heart with the same peace He's giving me.

For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God,

Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

Ellie's Prayer

Rob worked late last night. Ellie offered our dinner prayer instead.

Her prayer:

Dear Jesus,
Thank you for our yummy dinner. Help it to be good for us. Thank you that I am here. Thank you that I have a family.
Amen

My sweet girl.

Jesus with Skin On

Hey friends,

Ellie, 6, serving at With Love from Jesus

Have you ever heard that phrase, "Being Jesus with skin on?" It's a cute way to say "live out" Jesus' command to love God and love others. That's my challenge to you! These last two weeks before Christmas, won't you show your love for Jesus by loving others the way He would?

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Don't complain about the guy holding up the "will work for food" sign. Instead, carry granola bars in your car glovebox to share. 
• Adopt a family! Not sure where to begin? Ask your church secretary. No doubt your church has received many calls from desperate families this Christmas. Why not be Jesus (or Secret Santa) to a family? An easy shopping guide: buy each child a new shirt (right size/favorite color) and a special wish item, and buy mom and dad a bag of non-perishable groceries. It costs only $100 to radically bless a family of 6 this way! :)
• Listen! Many people, especially women, struggle emotionally at Christmas. They know it should be the happiest time of the year, but it's not. Carrying past hurts or dealing with the winter blues, many women struggle to survive the Christmas season. Not you? Offer her a hug and a prayer -- for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
• Remember! Most of us know someone who lost a dear loved one during the year. Take a moment and write a card letting them know that you haven't forgotten. Pray for them, asking God to fill their heart with memories to cherish and comfort this Christmas. Don't forget their loved one or their pain. They haven't forgotten -- and need to know it's okay to be a little sad.
• Have a friend who's been out of work for a while? Offer to pay their December electric bill (or gas or water). If you have a job, you're already blessed! Pass it on.

Love others like Jesus loves. Be Jesus with skin on. Isn't that what Christmas is all about?

Merry Christmas!

MBM: Remembering

A note to Linny,
Thank you for helping me REMEMBER the good things God does and for your encouragement to us all to share them. I see the blessings now more than I ever have. Next week, I'll be sharing a NEW MBM story, but today, I remember this one. It's one of the most marvelous mommy provisions God has ever given me.

A full tank.

Don't miss the blessings!

I (HEART) Texting

Yes, it's true. I realize it's not as personal as a phone call. I can't hear the emotion or inflection so messages can be misunderstood. But I still love text messages...

With close friends and family.

Like today.

I texted my hubby (whose job doesn't really fit with phone conversations) that we need to eat more fruits and veggies.

His reply: Eat oranges, not apples. Have citrus here, will bring more and eat with sandwiches.
Me: Why do oranges help more than apples? (I'm obviously lost)
Him: The apples are for dinner. But oranges do help fight scurvy. A common condition among pirates such as yourself :-)

(Insert laughter, mine)

Me: Aye matie!
Him: Ha. Good answer.

(Insert laughter, his)

A great conversation had -- over time -- while I cleaned house and supervised schoolwork. He fit his part in between patients.

What's not to love about a slow-evolving conversation?

TTYL! LOL

Must Read

Hey,
Did you notice? It's Christmas time!!!! I know, I know. It's impossible not to notice.

Christmas ads on TV (Who, by the way, has ever gotten a brand new luxury car complete with big red bow? Tell me... I want to be on that Christmas list!)
Neighborhoods twinkle in the crisp, evening air.
Household clutter disappears, replaced with Christmas clutter.
Caroling? Anyone?
Parties.
Baking.
Shopping.
Wrapping.
Recitals.
Parades.

Whew.

Stop. Just for one minute. Read this: Unwrapping Jesus.

Then go back to your regularly scheduled chaos.
Love,

Fabulous Friday!

Here it is... my last day home alone. I admit, I've loved it for the most part. Ben begged Wednesday night, Thursday morning, Thursday night and this morning for a reprieve today, "Just a day early, Mom." He pointed out that Rob only works half a day today, so it's only "a half day early.... PLEASE!" Nope. Not giving in.

Why? 

Two reasons. One, I've given in previously. This time, I am not backing down. He was warned that negative behavior would result in a long, boring week at Dad's office (hats off to Dad for allowing the inconvenience and maintaining that boring environment). Even though Ben longs to wrestle with the dog, shoot baskets and run on the elliptical, he will have to wait until 1:30.

The other reason is selfish. I have plans this morning.... and they don't include him. Is that wrong? As a mom who understands how precious and few our time with kids really is, should I welcome him home early? Or is it okay to be selfish?

So here I am... my last day home alone. I've been productive, but not as productive as I would have liked. Monday, the week loomed ahead, large, empty and promising. I was going to clean the office, wash the kitchen cupboards, wrap ALL the Christmas gifts, clean my bedroom for real, rearrange the furniture, and make a run to Goodwill. None of those got done! Today? Maybe. Probably not.

I guess there will be time for all that stuff once the kids all move out. For now, I'll keep savoring quiet moments in between the hugs, jokes and jabber that let me know we are a happy family.

Have a fabulous Friday, friends!

Home Alone

This week, my son is at work with dad. That means I am home alone. Bliss!

With all the uninterrupted time on my hands, I've been able to prepare yummy dinners like herbed pork tenderloin with homemade cranberry chutney, chicken paprikash with homemade spaetzle, and london broil sandwiches with roasted potatoes. Yummy! Hearing my husband's comments as he walks through the front door, absolutely delightful.

Yesterday, we were treated to sunny, 70 degree weather. It's December! I attacked the front porch, batting down the cobwebs and washing the windows till they're squeaky clean. Our flower pots, the plants long dead, have been emptied and cleaned, now stored away on the shelf in the garage. I even remembered to pull up the doormat and sweep below it. When Rob walked in the door last night, he asked who did it. With a big grin, I answered, "That would be me!"

Not missing a beat, he turned to Ben and declared, "That's it. You're coming to work with me every day!" Ben's not in agreement.

I have to say, uninterrupted time to read the Bible and talk with Jesus (yesterday, I read three whole chapters), is wonderful. Moving at my own pace without having to stop to teach or direct my son is productive. Not having to correct or reprimand is awesome.

But, the house is quiet... Sometimes too quiet.

I miss having my buddy along when I run errands. He's my copilot -- and my brain! I forget things when he's not with me.

I miss my Christmas movie loving guy and our big bowls of popcorn when we "rest" in the afternoon. (He and I studied Mexico a few years ago and think the afternoon siesta is awesome!)

I miss our funny conversations. His brilliant, creative mind leads us into interesting discussions, like how to invent hover-cars that use the yellow lines in the streets as sensors. I miss his never-ending questions about the lessons he's learning at youth group.

While I have two more days "off," I'm looking forward to the return of boisterous Ben! All that stuff I'm not doing this week is what makes me "Mom." And I love being Mom.

Ho-ho-holiday stress!

Paul told the Philippians, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

Of course, that was 2,000 years ago, before Christmas really got going. Paul didn't have to juggle his regular responsibilities, plus Christmas shopping, baking, kids' school programs, office parties, church gatherings, tree lightings and parades. He didn't have to figure out how to blend your Christmas and my Christmas to make our Christmas -- hopefully without offending the grannies!

Paul didn't know.

But God did! Ecclesiastes 1:9 says, "What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun."

We think we have stress. What about Mary? Stress one: telling her family she was having God's baby. Yeahhhhh..... sure. Stress two: breaking the news to Joseph. Stress three: very pregnant with cankles, she rode a stinking donkey across the country! I complain when I journey in my environmentally controlled car with adjustable seats, stereo, pillow and cup holder.

When they finally got to Bethlehem, Mary's situation did not improve. No place to stay.... Oooooh, if my husband planned a trip and forgot sleeping arrangements he would be toast! Talk about stress. How about having a baby in a stable, surrounded by stinky pigs, horses and donkeys? We freak out if our baby's pacifier hits the kitchen floor. Can you imagine giving birth in that filthy place?

As usual, God's right. There is nothing new under the sun. We head into the holidays excited, yet dreading. I think Mary might just understand. When the angel first came to her, she was "greatly troubled at his word and wondered what kind of greeting this might be." Can you hear her, hands on hips, saying, "Dude, what are you talking about? That makes no sense!"

The angel replied, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus." Mary's response? Pure peace and grace, she answered, "I am the Lord’s servant... May your word to me be fulfilled.” (Quotes from Luke 1:26-38, NIV) 

No stress I face compares to what Mary endured to give birth to the love of Christmas. No stress you face is greater than hers either.

Rather than freak out as we tend to do, let's adopt an attitude more like Mary's.

• When the tension and anxiety start to build, stop! Breathe deeply and slowly.
• As you breathe deeply, pray, "I am your servant, Lord. Let your love fill me and flow through me. Fill me with your peace."
• Keep praying and breathing until God's peace fills you!

To endure the trip, Mary must have been healthy. Let's make healthy living a priority as well.

• Drink coffee, soda, tea (caffeine) only in the morning, and only one or two cups. Caffeine throughout the day builds and creates an artificial anxiety which leads to more anxiety -- a vicious cycle!
• As the day winds down, drink a cup of chamomile or "sleepytime" tea to settle your stomach, your nerves and your mind. Winding down at day's close improves sleep. Better sleep leads to greater ability to make decisions to manage the stress.

My guess is that Mary didn't fill her time on that donkey talking about crime rates and other horrors of the world, instead filling the time talking with Joseph and others in the family. Why do we look at the negative?

• Turn off the news. (If you, like me are a weather junkie, flip on the news at the quarter hour. You'll still get the report without the sensational headlines!)
• While you're at it, shut off the crime-filled drama shows and reality TV. These shows are specifically designed to build tension so you stay glued to the channel. The real world is not filled with crime after crime after crime, buildings and warehouses blowing up in cities across the world, or mass murderers in every neighborhood. (Yes, these things do happen, but not like the shows suggest). 
• Instead, spend time with the family. Decorate cookies, play board games, watch a FUN Christmas movie together, make cards for Grandma. Focus on the blessings God has given you!

Ho-ho-holiday stress does exist. God knows. He really does! Just as He got Mary through the stress of that first Christmas, He WILL see you through it too.

May the love of Jesus fill your heart, your mind and your home this special season.

Love,

Child Discipline... As easy as 1, 2, 3

If you believe that, send me $100. I promise, I'll turn it into millions! (Note to the feds: This is not a Ponzi scheme. I do not intend to collect any money whatsoever.... so move along. Investigate the guys driving $100,000 cars with tax forms saying they make $40,000/year. Thank you!)

What was I saying? Oh yeah.... Child discipline. It's NOT as easy as 1, 2, 3. If it was, God would have put the instructions in the Bible: The 10 commandments of child discipline. Right next to the original 10 Commandments. That would have been nice.

Instead, God gave us these wonderful verses:

• Psalm 139:14, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
• 1 Corinthians 7:7, "...But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that."
• Ephesians 2:10, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Each one of us is uniquely created, knitted together by God with gifts and a plan that is as individual as we are. No two people are alike. We know that as adults, but we expect cookie cutter kids. It just doesn't work like that. They're born to be them. Each one different. Each one a special gift from God.

Yet we try -- hard -- to find the discipline method to ensure they turn out okay, to know right from wrong and actually live it. We google the web to discover techniques on how to teach our kids hitting is bad, how to overcome tantrums, or help the picky eater learn to eat even one vegetable. 

We'll never find the answer on the internet. Never.

Child discipline... As easy as 1, 2, 3 is really more about us than them. 

1. Are we willing to ask God to show us our children's hearts? To teach us to address each one uniquely and specifically as He designed them?
2. Will we allow God to reveal our own hearts to us? The fears, the dreams, the expectations we place on our kids. Unfairly!
3. Will we open our hearts to being transformed, no longer conforming to the ways (the methods) of man? Will we allow Him to fill us with His will for our lives as parents?

Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." Even in discipline, we must open our hearts and minds to God. We must listen to His instruction and seek His guidance for each child and each situation.

There is no "easy as 1, 2, 3." Really, if life was that simple, wouldn't it be boring?

Take a minute today to praise God for your kids' unique gifts. That little personality that drives you batty will one day influence the world. Ask God for wisdom to understand how your feelings influence your parenting expectations. Thank Him for your precious gifts, even in the moments you want to strangle them! 

Lots of love!

The Mailman

Have you ever had one of those oh-no-I-forgot-to-get-this-in-the-mail mad dashes to the mailbox hoping against hope that you beat the mailman to your box?

That happened to me Saturday. As I ran out the front door, I saw the mail truck just three houses away. Happy dance! I beat the mailman (ours is actually a mail lady). YAY!!!

I waited for her at the end of the driveway. When she got to me, I said, "I thought I had missed you." She chuckled and said, "Christmas season mail always slows me down." Then she handed me three catalogs and the rest of our mail.

Walking toward the house, I flipped through the non-catalog mail. Nathan got a big envelope from Belmont University (big envelopes from colleges are good). I ran.

Sadistically torturing me, Nathan painstakingly opened the envelope. He read the cover letter. Carefully. Slowly. I am certain he's never read a textbook that thoroughly, not even a page of a textbook! Next, he flipped open the folder that came with the letter and vigilantly explored that material. True torture.

Watching and waiting, not so patiently, I realized something profound: every aspect of our lives is shared with the mailman. Or mail lady.

It probably starts with the wedding, mailing our invitations to friends, family, and the people we don't know but mom insists on adding to the list. The mailbox fills with responses: yes, no, maybe. There's no mistaking those small response envelopes, though.

A few years later, birth announcements come and go. The box fills with diaper coupons and children's life insurance offers. Toy catalogs arrive. Christmas card deliveries, with pictures of our growing children tucked proudly inside, swell during the early child rearing years.

And now... college mail. Inquiries from schools across the country started appearing early in Nathan's sophomore year and the volume has grown exponentially with each passing semester. Now, updates from the schools he actually applied to arrive and of course, the big envelopes. 

Next will be high school graduation announcements and then, soon after, care packages, lovingly packed, will be sent from our box to his.

Through it all, the mailman is there... a quiet, essential part of our lives.

Taming of the Tongue

If you read my last post, you know that Britt's kind words and attention refreshed me. It wasn't what she said, so much. After all, there are dozens of peppermint bark recipes online that I can try. It's that she chose to see me -- right where I was, tired and weary. She noticed something about me -- a love of peppermint bark.

Why?

Because Britt chose to speak kindness and love.

The past few days around our house have been tough. Kids testing boundaries, speaking harshly to one another, lying to the parents, and griping and complaining about everything. Exhausting!

Normally, I'm strong -- at first -- choosing not to scream in response. Then they wear me down. I lose control. We all fall apart. I'm not supposed to be that way. James 3:2 says, "If we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and  could...control ourselves in every other way." James cautions us, in verse 4:11, not to "speak evil against each other."

Screaming at the kids is definitely evil. There. I said it. God does not intend me to raise my kids by screaming... no matter how justified I feel. His word says, "Better a dry crust eaten in peace than a house filled with feasting and conflict." (Proverbs 17:1)

Thanks to Britt's example, which I consider a gift from God to strengthen me when I needed it, I've held my tongue better, speaking more calmly (notice I said more calmly.... I'm a work in progress.)

You know what?

The kids have noticed! Last night, one of them apologized for pushing and pushing and pushing. This one accepted the corrective discipline with a pleasant attitude. Yes, truly pleasant! Tucking in another one, I said, "You know we don't want it to be this way, right? We love you. We want your life to be filled with fun and friends." The response, "I know. I don't like it, but I know you love me." Whew. I think we'll be okay.

I have not been the perfect mom this week. But, I'm improving. And so are my kids.

I'm grateful that God took the time to offer instruction in parenting. I can't imagine what this tongue would say without Him!

Britt!

With a horrible headache, I dragged myself to Ellie's dance class. Knowing we had run out of milk, bread and fruit -- lunch packing essentials -- I drove my sluggish self over to Walmart to pick them up while she danced. Without a headache, I avoid Walmart. With a headache, it's on my list of things NOT to do! Since I wasn't near a grocery store, I ignored that list and opted for Walmart location convenience.

Of course, I ended up with the cart with a bum wheel. Thunka. Thunka. Thunka. I pushed that cart through the aisles, picking up the lunchtime necessities. Somehow, peppermint bark jumped into the basket. Really. I have no idea how it happened. *wink*

(Peppermint bark is my FAVORITE Christmas treat. Certainly, that little package just wanted to make me feel better. Right?)

I headed to the checkout, the Walmart experience I dread most. Grumpiness abounds in the Walmart checkout lines. Customers are rude. Some are down-right angry. Most of the time, store clerks are absent-minded, not interested in me, my groceries, or their job. Not that I blame them.... what a boring job. Swipe. Bag. Swipe. Bag. Cash or credit? Over and over. They stand on their feet for hours. AND they have to deal with each and every grumpy, angry customer who goes through the line.

Approaching the checkout area, I noticed that one lane was empty -- and open. The young lady working that register leaning on her counter talking to three teenagers beyond the next set of registers. I hesitated. Will she do her job? Or, will she keep yammering with the kids? That happens sometimes.

I decided to chance it.

As I placed the milk on the counter, she instantly turned her focus to me. "How are you?" Not thinking about social expectations, I replied, "I'm tired." Exhausted, really, but I didn't go that far.

Chipper, she asked, "Have you been Christmas shopping?"

"Yes."

She exclaimed, "I've met a lot of people who are tired today. It seems that Christmas shopping does that, but at least you're getting it done before Christmas Eve!"

My foggy, throbbing brain started firing. This isn't the typical Walmart experience. I honestly thought, "Pay attention, Karen. This is a special person." I pushed my focus to her instead of my headache.

She swiped the peppermint bark and placed it in a bag as she shared, "Oooooh, I love peppermint bark! Do you know you can make it yourself? It's so much better than this, and cheaper too." I looked directly into her face, and she animatedly explained how to make peppermint bark. She added that if I buy canisters from the dollar store, it makes a great gift. Cheap!

Everything bagged, I ran my credit card through the machine. It didn't read. GROAN! This frustrates me too. Usually, the churlish clerk barks at me to do it again. Not this girl. "Oh no. It didn't take your card the first time. Please swipe it again." As she smiled warmly.

I am in the presence of a human angel!

I swiped. Bubbly, she declared, "Oh good. It worked."

She handed me the receipt, looking directly at me with a warm smile spread across her face. "You have a great night."

Britt, I just did! Thanks.

Friendship!

After an incredible Thanksgiving weekend, my heart bubbles with things to say... but, it's all bubbling up together. You would not enjoy reading my thoughts! Well, maybe you'd laugh hard at my jabbering and marvel that I've managed to raise three kids without losing one along the way....

So, for now, I'll simply say, "Thank you, God, for the blessing of friendship!"

Who's your friendship blessing?

Detours by God

My senior year in college, the dean called me to his office. That was not typical and I was really nervous. He got straight to the point, "Karen, you need to go to law school." What??? I can honestly say becoming a lawyer NEVER had entered my mind before that moment. Inside, I laughed hysterically. To the dean, I said, "I don't know a thing about law school." He explained that I would have to take the LSAT and then apply to schools.

I had no money for gas to get to college. How would I pay for the LSAT? The dean had an answer for that too. Ohio State's Law School had a fund for financially needy students. He sent me to the law school.

That happened to be the last day to register. The receptionist handed me a form to complete. She disappeared into another room for a few moments, then returned to tell me I was registered. She handed me a tri-fold brochure that included a brief explanation of the test and question types. She told me where and when to report for the test. Easy!

And then... test day.

A mob of hopeful attorneys-to-be waited outside the test room. Some were taking the test for the third time, hoping for scores that would finally get them into law school. I remember thinking I had no business being there if they had taken study courses and still couldn't score well.

The proctor let us into the room and I sat down with pencils, pop tart and pepsi. Closing my eyes, I offered this prayer, "God, I have no idea what I'm doing here. If You want me to go to law school, You better show up big time." Like the Israelites who were cornered with the Egyptians in pursuit in Exodus 14, I had no place to turn. Either God showed up or I didn't go. That day, I lived out Moses' instruction in Exodus 14:14, "The Lord will fight for you. You need only be still." When we get to the end of ourselves, God shows up. We just need to be still and trust Him.

The test results came.

God showed up. With HIS help, I scored in the top 5% in the country. I was offered a full tuition scholarship to law school. God had a plan for my life -- something I never would have chosen for myself. Something I had never considered. How cool is that?

Maybe God has a plan for you that you don't even know about. Will you trust Him with your life?

Or maybe you know God has a better plan -- peace for your family, or contentment in your circumstances, or joy in living -- but you just don't "feel" it.

Trust me, I didn't "feel it" for law school, but God did. Won't you trust Him today? Just BE STILL. TRUST His plan. One day, you'll yourself like the Israelites, victorious. Then you can shout praises too.

And when the Israelites saw the mighty hand of the LORD displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the LORD 

and put their trust in him...

Exodus 14:31

Treasured Time

Last year's tree. No tree yet this year!

Rob and I took a rare opportunity to sneak away yesterday and get some Christmas shopping done. We finished all our shopping for the extended family, including both grandmas' December birthdays.

Rather than hit the local mall, we opted to shop at the local shops in Chapel Hill, NC. What a treat it was to explore shops without having to remind a certain child to keep her hands to herself. Or to pause and feed two teen boys every fifteen minutes. We got to take our time! And think, without distraction!

When we got hungry, we stopped for a bite to eat.

On the way home, we decided to make a detour -- this time to the mall to find the elusive last gift. If we'd had the kids with us, we wouldn't have done that either... something about bedtimes and school day mornings.

I'm thankful today for the sweet break with Rob. I'm thankful for two responsible sons who got dinner on the table for the kids, read books with Ellie before bed, made sure she brushed her teeth and tucked her in. Treasured time away with Rob, even for an afternoon of shopping, might be the best gift anyone could ever give me!

Love,

Whose in charge here anyway?

I've been a Christian quite a long time, but I'm finally beginning to understand some things. For the longest time, I got frustrated that I attended church every week but my life never seemed to work right. I kept battling the same problems: fears of financial insecurity, angry outbursts, pessimism, and laziness. (Please don't ask my husband if that's all... I'm sure he could add to the list.)

Somewhere along the line, it finally hit me. Psalm 16:11 says, "You will show me the path of life; Your presence is fullness of joy. At your right hand are pleasures forevermore." God will show me the path of life. In God's presence is the fullness of joy. At God's right hand are pleasures forevermore. Without God by my side, that joy I crave just isn't coming.

I had thought accept Jesus and be happy. The end. Christian living, though, is Christian relationship with Jesus. Time spent reading the Bible (and discovering truths like Psalm 16:11), praying, and praising God leads to joy. It took a while for me to figure out how to do that. Here's what my faith looks like now... It's a lot more than going to church on Sunday.

Time reading the Bible:

• When I read, I go passage by passage so I can think about the words. 
• I use a study Bible. I have several, but I started with the Life Application Study Bible which explains the ancient text as it applies today. 
• I read cross-references. The side margin includes links from one verse to other verses in the Bible. Reading those links helps me understand the broader meaning of the verse.
• I keep a journal and write my thoughts and prayers as they are inspired by the scripture. I ask God to show me how to apply the scripture in my life.

Prayer:

• My prayer time is casual. I talk to Jesus just like I'd talk with you. No fancy words. He knows what I'm thinking about, my stresses, worries, ideas and joys. 
• I tell him about prayer concerns my friends share with me and I trust him to handle their problems. (I used to try to figure out the solution for them, but I realize, that's HIS job!)
• I pray throughout the day, too. When I walk the dog, I pray for neighbors, especially my kids' friends. I pray for our family as I cook dinner. I throw up a quick prayer, "Jesus hold my tongue." when I want to scream at the kids.... OR "Jesus, I'm sorry." after I scream at them!
• I pray with my husband and kids. It keeps us close.
• Perhaps the thing I've learned to do best is LISTEN!!! Prayer is a conversation with Jesus. Listening is essential to a good conversation. He speaks, though it's hard to explain. Just try it. You'll see!

Praise!

• Praising God for all the good He does is exhilarating. Truly!
• Traffic jam? Praise God that you have a car to get stuck in.
• Kids driving you crazy? Praise God that you have been blessed with children. So many people long for the arguments you must endure... they don't have kids.
• Sick of macaroni and cheese again? Praise God for the meal on your table. Much of the world is going hungry.
• Keeping the temperature set at 67 to keep utility costs down? Praise God for your sweater -- or sweatshirt.
• Sunny skies out your window? Rejoice that He has given you another day! (You can praise for rain too :D)
• Basically, God blesses us with so much. We get so caught up in our wants and desires that we miss out. Choose not to miss the little things He does for you each day. You'll be amazed at your blessings once you start looking for them!

Most of my life, I've been "in charge." Or I thought I was. Really, though, I was captive to my emotions, fears and worries. They dictated how I lived. It was not fun! Now, God is in charge. He is the center and He's doing a great job! The more I trust Him the easier it is to trust Him more. (Yes, you can reread that sentence. It DOES make sense!!!) 

Who's in charge of your life? Is it you? Your feelings? Fears? Emotions? Finances? Or is it God? 

If you happened to read yesterday's post, Paint your world happy, I hope this post helps you understand how this new relationship with Jesus works. It's also important that you do get involved in a church. Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Accountability and encouragement from other Christians makes this all so much easier to understand. 

Paint your world happy

It's cloudy today, but it is very yellow! 

My husband is a saint! He painted our family room about two years ago and he is repainting it. WITHOUT grumping! Our front room is a soft yellow, absolutely beautiful, so we decided to paint the family room the same warm color. We did not consider the effect of sun! The family room gets a lot of sun, and our soft yellow glows brightly. It just doesn't work. So he's painting again, a gorgeous color called "Beach House Blue." Yep! I'm living at the "beach" year-round.

Our new beach house blue... not done yet.

This change to the house is no big deal. For the cost of a few gallons of paint and some muscle power by my dear husband, "we" can easily modify our home's appearance. Except for those forearm cramps, the process is painless and permanent... until I change my mind again. *wink*

How many of us try to do the same thing in our own lives? We update the wardrobe. We spend hundreds at the salon on hair, makeup, hands and toes. We give up on the hard work of exercise and invest instead in spanx (call it what you want, it's a girdle!).

How many times have you participated in the plastic smile conversation? Someone asks, "How are you?" The instant reply forced between clenched teeth, "Oh, fine. Just peachy." Plastic smile frozen on your face until you turn away and that broken heart trickles down your cheek in a silent tear.

We pretend that we can buy happiness with new clothes, a fresh face, and fake words. Pretenders.

The truth is, we can't make our lives look good with a simple update to our outward appearance. All the money in the world can't buy peace, joy or contentment. The harder we try to paint our world happy, the more we hurt. Proverbs 15:13 says, "A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit."

We can't fix our lives with a fresh coat of paint. We can find joy, peace, love, contentment, patience and more when God fills our heart. If you don't know the God of these great gifts, He is already with you, waiting on you to invite Him in. He wants to fill you with his love. When you let Him in, you won't feel the same need to keep redoing yourself. This is the last paint job you'll ever need!

If you'd like to ask Jesus to fill your heart and become your personal Lord and Savior, it's as simple as ABC:
A. Admit you are a sinner who needs God.
B. Believe that Jesus lived, died and rose again for your sins.
C. Confess Jesus as Lord of your life.

You can pray right now and invite Him into your heart:
Dear God, I admit I am a sinner who needs you. Please forgive me of my sins and give me a life with you here on earth and eternal life with you in heaven. I do believe that Jesus died and rose again for my sins. I confess Jesus as Lord and Savior of my life. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus' name, Amen

If you prayed that prayer, congratulations! And welcome to the family. Please visit a church and get plugged in with the people there. God doesn't want you to do this alone! Also, check out gotandem.com for more resources as you take this journey with Jesus. And please let me know too! I'd be honored to pray with you and for you as you get the best makeover ever!

Enjoy your new heart!

Love,

1237 Miles, 58 Hours

A goofy moment during his senior photo session 

Last Thursday, Nathan and I left on a whirlwind road trip to Samford University for his piano audition. He's already been accepted to the university, and we'll find out soon if he's accepted into the School of the Arts. Then, we wait some more to learn if he is accepted into the honors college. AND a little longer to learn about scholarships. Applying to music school is NOT for the faint of heart!

This particular road trip, traveling 1237 miles in 58 hours, meant we spent most of our time in the car. We talked about so many different things: Did you and dad have a "song" when you were dating? (No.) Do you think Joe Pa should have been fired? (Yes, No, Maybe? I need more info.)

Being a mom, I noticed some other things... and reminisced a bit as well.

Shortly after we left, Nathan fell asleep in the seat beside me. Some copilot! I remembered the four month old baby he once was. For some reason, one short ride home from the grandparents' house, he decided he'd had enough of carseats! He screamed and screamed. Puzzled, and worried, we pulled off the road trying to figure out what was wrong. I remember crying the rest of the trip home, so worried for my baby.

Fast forward two years to our move two hours south to Delaware, Ohio. Rob had to stay behind and finish his medical residency, but Nathan and I moved when our house became available. We left late in the evening, figuring he'd sleep on the drive. No way! Even though we set out about 10:00 p.m., Nathan jabbered away in his carseat, waved to every trucker and sang at the top of his lungs. Arriving at the new house, I unpacked his pack-n-play and my air mattress and set us up for the night. Wearily, I tucked him in and collapsed into my bed. He jabbered more. And more and more. Finally, I told him he could talk all night if he wanted, but I was going to sleep!

Moving to North Carolina a few years later, we made many trips between Ohio and NC while we waited for the house to sell. Nathan knew how to entertain us on those drives. He read books to his little brother and helped me keep him fed. We played hilarious games like "roller coaster," where he'd pretend the West Virginia mountain highway was a roller coaster and would lean left or right as we "flew" down the hills. He'd even say clackety-clack as we chugged uphill. Ben followed his lead and then they'd crack up.

How funny to see my man-boy all these years later, closing his eyes in slumber on a drive. I won't soon forget, perhaps never, our "skittles challenge," guessing the flavor of each skittle before eating it in the dark. I know every time I look at the moon hanging low and heavy on the horizon that I'll watch for it to float high and shrink away in the sky and remember a silly conversation (I'd share it here, but I'm sure it will be lost in translation). I'm confident that I'll spend the rest of my life avoiding the reflectors that separate the lanes on long drives.

We got home late Saturday night. Before Nathan headed off to bed, he wrapped me in a big man-boy hug and said, "Thanks for a fun trip, Mom." All I could think was, "No. Thank you." 

Joe Pa

http://www.getfootballhelmets.com/college-football.html?psps_search=Penn+State+Nittany+Lions+Helmet

Last Saturday the Ohio State football game was not televised in our area. My sons, eternal optimists, declared that if Penn State loses to us and one other team, we make it to the Big Ten Championship game. Yippee! All the talk about Penn State's season led to an interesting conversation about Joe Pa. One son asked why the Penn State fans like him so much. Both sons predicted that when he finally retires, they will undoubtedly name the stadium after him... what a legacy.

And then...

The scandal broke. You can read about it here if you want more information. And Joe Pa was fired. In the midst of his 46th season as head football coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions. The stadium will not be named after him. There will be no final game played with tearful emotion. The players, school and students don't get to send their coach off to retirement with flair.

In one moment, Joe Pa's long tenure ends. Sadly.

James 4:17 says, "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins." I doubt that the university trustees cited the Bible when they fired Joe Paterno, but this verse does summarize his downfall. He could have spoken up. He didn't. He's gone.

Yet, his legacy lives on. This tragedy teaches us all how fragile our lives, careers, plans really are. How we choose to live matters. Taking our position -- in the family, at work, in the community -- for granted, can land us in a tough situation.

Let's learn from Joe Pa. Choose today to love your family more. Listen to God's nudging -- and make moral decisions, even if they are difficult. Think of others before yourself -- put yourself in their shoes and make the right choice.

Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life. Put away from you a deceitful mouth, And put devious lips far from you. Let your eyes look directly ahead, And let your gaze be fixed straight in front of you. Watch the path of your feet, And all your ways will be established. Do not turn to the right nor to the left; 

Turn your foot from evil.

Proverbs 4:23-27

Joe Pa, my prayers are with you as you adjust to your new life. My prayers are with each player, student and child affected by this horrible situation. May God bring healing in the midst of this pain. And may we all grow wiser as we learn from your mistakes. Please God, fill our hearts with integrity.

Color my world

http://www.falboart.com/Originals/originals.htm

When Ben was little, he COULD NOT learn his colors. No matter what. He understood blue, as in the color of denim. But he didn't think our navy blue couch was blue. He'd argue the point until he cried.

That. Is. Not. Blue.

The same held true for green, red, yellow. You name it. He couldn't do it.

He is not color-blind. If anything, he's the opposite of color-blind. Ben sees colors brilliantly. Each subtle hue stands out in a way I can't even begin to imagine.

Driving home today, we crested a hill. Before us, autumn glimmered. Off to the right, a hill of trees, dressed in red, green, orange, brown and yellow stood proud and glorious. Ben noticed, "Oh my gosh. Look at that." He babbled on, confidently exclaiming that the hill of trees was definitely the best view in the whole state of North Carolina. He declared, "Just think if you built a house right in the middle of that field. Every day, you could wake up to that view. That would be awesome!"

I was driving, paying attention to the twisty-turny back roads of Johnston County, NC. Maybe that's why I didn't see what he did. Sure the hill was pretty. But, it looked like fall trees to me. Some red. Some green. A little yellow, brown and orange. Not the glorious display he saw.

He's like that, though.

Yesterday, he asked the eye doctor why one of his glasses lenses is green and the other is red. When she shared that after his exam, I wasn't surprised. I'm getting used to Ben's vision, but I had no idea that the lenses were anything but clear! The eye doctor WAS surprised! She stated that he is correct and the different lens color is simply the scratch resistant coating done by two different companies. Wow! He can see it. She said she has never had a patient notice that before.

To Ben, the colors of this world are vibrant and rich. I wish I could see it the way he does, even for a day. He sees something I'll never experience "this side of heaven." Really, can you imagine how glorious heaven must be?

Just read this, from Revelation 21:15-21.
The angel who talked with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long. The angel measured the wall using human measurement, and it was 144 cubits thick. The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.

Simply glorious!

Eloquent Ellie

No surprise that our little diva likes sparkle words!

Ellie's teacher is helping the kids grasp the concept of "sparkle" words, mostly adjectives that occur before the word they describe. Eloquent Ellie loves sparkle words! She joyously interrupts a quiet conversation when she recognizes these dazzling darlings! As we read her books, she frequently interrupts herself when she discovers a hidden gem in the story.

Sometimes, though, her quiet soul quivers when she can't think of a wonderful word to interject in her school sentences.... as you can see, I have no such ignominious issue!

To help my effervescent Ellie perfect her new skill, we are memorizing Psalm 145 together. Just read this precious words...

I will exalt you, my God the King; 

   I will praise your name for ever and ever. 

² Every day I will praise you 

   and extol your name for ever and ever.

 ³ Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; 

   his greatness no one can fathom. 

⁴ One generation commends your works to another; 

   they tell of your mighty acts. 

⁵ They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty— 

   and I will meditate on your wonderful works.

⁶ They tell of the power of your awesome works— 

   and I will proclaim your great deeds. 

⁷ They celebrate your abundant goodness 

   and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

I doubt that King David's first grade teacher taught sparkle words, but I'm confident that with all his soul, he understood the glorious richness these words add. And he used them to praise the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, God, his Savior and Redeemer!

How about us? Does God hear us sing his deserved praises? Or does he just hear our pitiful moans?

Something to think about!

May your day be richly blessed with the love of your Heavenly Father who adores you!

Thursdays are satan's playground

My sweet friends,
Thursdays are NOT my favorite day of the week. If I were to rank the days, Thursday would probably get last place. Monday would follow close behind. It's not that I have anything against Thursday. No hangups about Nordic gods (We get Thursday from the Nordic god Thor, god of thunder. Did you think it was Greek or Latin?).

Thursday evenings we have connect group. At our church, in-home Bible study or small groups, are called connect groups. They provide an opportunity to connect with other church members -- and of course, with God -- on a deeper level as we fellowship and study together. I love connect group! I adore the people in our group...

But satan... that old devil...

He doesn't! He hates connect group night. He hates the idea of us growing stronger in our faith. He despises the relationships developing as we meet, relationships God clearly values in Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." We pray. We encourage. We laugh. And sometimes, we cry. Satan hates it!

Every Thursday, he tries to knock us down. Seriously! Last week, I was super-grumpy... If they gave out super-hero capes for grumps, I would have gotten one. A couple weeks ago, I was sick. Before that, my husband was home sick. No joke! Today, you wonder? What could possibly go wrong today? The sun is shining (of course, you're not looking out the windows with me this fine, sunny day... trust me. It's gorgeous out there!!!)

One of my children, who shall remain nameless, woke up grumpy. Oh how I want to snap back, "Don't yell at me." Yep! "Go to your room." "Scrub the walls, ceiling to floor!" (Not for any other reason to create misery in this child's life).

But I won't.

I know satan "comes only to steal, kill and destroy." (John 10:10) I'm wise to his ways. He wants to mess with my family and throw us into chaos. Anything to keep us from growing wiser and stronger! He wants me unfocused tonight.

He doesn't think I'll remember the second half of John 10:10, that glorious BUT. (Perhaps my favorite BUT in the entire Bible!) BUT Jesus has come "that we may have life and have it to the full!"

Satan can try to bully my Thursdays, but he's not going to win. Jesus has my back! He'll stand up to the enemy anytime, anywhere.

You know what? If the enemy is bullying you today, Jesus has your back too. In Jesus' name, tell that old bully to hit the road. And then, go enjoy a pumpkin spice latte with your best friend, Jesus!

Blessings,

Rescued... Not exactly.

Ellie's been with us 6.5+ years now, and God is still teaching me lessons I never knew I needed to know. For some reason, the topic of her "rescue" has come up frequently in recent conversations. Going through the adoption process, we heard that all the time, "How sweet that you are going to rescue that precious baby." Or, "She is going to be so thankful that you rescued her from that horrible orphanage." You know, stuff like that. The questions of late have been more along the lines of "What made you decide to rescue a little one anyway?"

First of all, we never decided to rescue her. We were called to bring her home into our family, the missing fifth link. I had trouble wrapping my head around that -- it took me a long time to agree with God to expand our family. But, it wasn't a rescue. It was a blessing. We always saw it that way.

What's the difference, you might ask. Either way, she's here. You brought her out of the orphanage and into your family... yada yada yada.

I disagree. The difference is the key.

Perceiving Ellie's adoption as a rescue suggests some great heroics on our part. It puts the focus on us. We. Are. Not. Heroes. Rescue, the verb, is defined as "to free or deliver from confinement, violence, danger or evil." Granted, growing up in an orphanage is probably not ideal, and to be free from that environment is probably (hopefully) something Ellie will one day appreciate, but we didn't rescue her.

Ellie's rescuer is God. He orchestrated her adoption into our family. He provided the resources and funding. He sustained us all through the crazy preschool/therapy years. He has a remarkable and amazing plan for her life that somehow includes us. We obeyed.

And were blessed.

Abundantly.

To be called her parents. 

To see this smile every day.

To make pig tails.

To dance.

To play.

Blessing, the verb, means to bestow good upon. Most definitely, God has blessed us with our daughter's love. The joy she brings is immeasurable.

We are definitely not rescuers. God rescued us all. And He blesses, abundantly.

Don't you agree?

Doubt

We are not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us;

we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be.

C. S. Lewis

I want obedient kids, without the effort of discipline. I want to fit in my "skinny jeans" without giving up chocolate. Or how about this one: letting go of past hurts to walk in freedom. 

I justify. I rationalize. I twist God's word to fit my circumstances. We can't imagine how forgiving someone who deserves to be hated could possibly be the best for us. Do you know what I mean?

C. S. Lewis possessed the incredible ability to clearly say what we all think.

We know that God has a "good, pleasing and perfect will" for our lives. (Romans 12:2) We want it. God, give me all that good and pleasing stuff your word promises. And give it to me now!

Yet, we seem unwilling to grab the first part of the verse so firmly, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. THEN you will be able to test and approve what God's will is..." (same verse, emphasis mine)

We want everything good now. We don't want to work for it. We certainly don't take time to ask God if the things we want are good, pleasing and perfect. We decide, in our own minds, what that might be and expect God to bless it.

When they don't turn out, we get mad. We blame God. We wonder how He could possibly have forgotten us. Poor God. We ignore him and listen to our feelings to determine what's good. Then, when it doesn't work out, he gets blamed. Unfair! And unbiblical!

You know what I mean?

God doesn't want us to cram him into our lives. He wants us to follow HIS plan for our lives: His good, pleasing and perfect plan. Our fears hold us back. We can't imagine that doing things God's way could possibly be better. We see pain, honesty, vulnerability and run.

Let's look at forgiveness God's way. He says let go of the past. (2 Corinthians 5:17) He says to forgive others, no matter how much they wrong us. (Matt. 18:21-23) But, we can't imagine anything filling the hole that leaves behind. We can't fathom that God could replace the hurt with anything. So we wallow in the pain. We hold on tight, clutching to hurt like a friend. 

Yet, there is no hurt in letting go. God replaces it with peace, hope, fullness, and freedom. Yes, freedom. Jesus wants to carry that pain and get it off our backs. (Galatians 5:1)

C. S. Lewis understood. Our minds fill with doubts. We convince ourselves that God will allow new pain to come in and we hold on to the familiar. 

The holiday season is quickly approaching. Let's transform our minds in Christ and give ourselves (and our family members) a most precious gift: forgiveness. 

Sleepless nights...

The "what ifs" kept me up last night. Grrrrr!!!

I thought I'd conquered that one, but no. Life goes to a new place and the door to what if land creaks open again. After trying not to toss and turn for a couple hours, I migrated to the couch...

...With short detours to do a load of laundry and take the dog out. She, apparently, defines morning as whenever I get out of bed! Interestingly, I could hear the trucks on the highway about a mile away. I don't hear them during the day. The noises of an awake neighborhood drown them out.

So, back to those thoughts. During the day, the "what ifs" don't bother me too much. My mind is filled with chores, work, kids, and life. There's no room for the "what ifs." Why do they sneak in during the night when I should be sleeping? It's like the quiet in my home allows the noise of my mind to be heard, just like those trucks on the highway.

But... I know that the "what ifs" aren't healthy. Why couldn't I quiet them last night?

Here's where the truth hits me square between the eyes. I don't enjoy getting slugged by the truth. The "what ifs" creep in when I take my eyes off God. And that's exactly what I've done. Again.

Will I ever learn?

"Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things." (Phil 4:8) God doesn't want me to worry -- which is exactly what the "what ifs" are. It's like I posted earlier this week in It's No Secret!,  I need to remember what God has already done and trust Him with the future.

Sleepless nights... worry... the only thing good that comes from that is some clean laundry!

Praising God... trusting Him... that leads to peaceful slumber! I have to spend some serious time with Him today if I want a good night's rest tonight.

The same is true for tomorrow too. :)

It's no secret!

At dinner with friends recently, they asked -- as so many do -- how did you end up adopting Ellie. We shared the story: God's call, His miraculous provision financially, the timing of everything, and more. We explained the issues Ellie had once home, and our unique training and experience that helped us identify her struggles early and how her therapist discovered the key to our son's issues. The story builds our faith with each retelling.

Our friends listened to all the "gory" details. Then, the husband friend said, "And I thought you were going to tell us you wanted to rescue her.... and it turns out, her story is all about how God rescued your family."

Isn't that just like God, though?

He sent Jesus as our rescuer. Our salvation. Our hope. Our joy. We don't carry the burden.

Sometimes, though....

We forget.

Mired in the moment, we forget all God has done. We forget how He rescued us before. We forget the joy that comes with new salvation -- with freedom from the binding shackles that once held us down. We get used to the freedom and take it for granted.

Today I read two verses that remind me how important it is to remember all the many blessings God bestows. These verses occur toward the end of the plagues on Egypt, where God uses the plagues to prove his power over Pharaoh. Exodus 10:2 says, "you may tell your children and grandchildren how I dealt harshly with the Egyptians and how I performed my signs among them, and that you may know that I am the LORD." In Exodus 12:26-27, God reminds the people again, "And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the LORD, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.’” God wants us to remember his power displayed in our lives. He KNOWS we won't remember if we don't keep telling the stories.


Our lives are a living testimony of God's power, but if we don't share the story, we will forget. 


Let's tell the stories, to our kids and grandkids. Share God's miracles with anyone who will listen. When we pass it on, others gain strength from our testimony. 


God doesn't want us to keep him a secret. 

"Where is your faith?"

Thinking. Thinking. Thinking.

Nathan enjoyed his visit to App State. He loves the program and the campus. He likes having friends already there and all the activities available to students.

He enjoyed his visit to Samford University too. Great program, though they don't offer his specifically desired major which means he'll have to do the major-minor thing. Not too bad. Incredible professors. Beautiful campus and friendly students.

Of course, Belmont offers not only his preferred major, but the premiere location -- Nashville. The heart of music recording and production.

Right now, he's feeling the stress of the decision. If only he could put Samford's campus and piano professors in Nashville with his friends, the activities, and the food from App State. He can't lose wherever he goes, but the decision will not be easy. (HINT to anyone from the school admissions office who might be reading this... scholarship offers will weigh in heavily!)

Coffee in hand -- Feelin' Collegiate!

I've been his sounding board as he processes the decision, listening as he weighs and reweighs the pros and cons of each school. It's time to bring in the expert. Jesus. In Luke 8:25, Jesus asks the disciples, "Where is your faith?" as the wind and water rage around their boat. Jesus calmed the stormy sea for them. He will do the same for Nathan.

My advice to my son, and all the students making weighty post-graduation decisions, is this: Trust Jesus. He will calm the storms raging in your head as you make your decision. He will lead you, just as He promises in Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In ALL YOUR WAYS, acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight."

Pray.
Wait.
Listen.
Go.

As Romans 8:31 puts it, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" God is bigger than this decision. He wants the very best for you. He will lead you to it!

Prayerfully,