I'm Offended!

Wow! Go Glen Beck! Preach it, brother! Tonight, he's pointing out how God is present, in name or symbolically, in nearly every historical monument in Washington. And yet, people still try to claim that America is not about God. Our founders escaped those who sought to persecute them for their beliefs, and many of today's immigrants are here for the same reason. They can believe whatever they want, but why are Americans afraid to stand up for "one nation under GOD"?

When someone comes into your home, do you change the rules to suit them? Not likely. So why does our government keep trying to accomodate those who believe differently? Why are so many offended by the mention of God's name and if so, why did they come here in the first place? I'm not against foreigners, the same applies to some of our own citizens. The fact remains that America was founded on Christian principles, and up until the last 25 years or so, we were proud of that. Why do we try to hide that now?

Non-Christians, be happy that you are free to worship whomever you choose. NOW, LET ME BE FREE TO DO THE SAME! I celebrate CHRISTMAS, not a "holiday". Why should I care about offending you? Nobody cares about offending me by refusing to display the Ten Commandments, or calling December 25 a holiday instead of what it is, the recognition of the birth of Jesus Christ. I AM OFFENDED!! Maybe I should hire my own civil rights attorney to defend my right to say "Merry Christmas".

Grace and Forgiveness

So, my kids have been in their new school for about a month now. They're adjusting, but still wish they could be back at the old one. My 8-year old has been having trouble with a bully - another 8-year old girl. Before seeing her, I had this preconceived idea of what she would look like. Probably much bigger than my super skinny daughter. Or, perhaps there was something that made her "different" from the other kids, so she picks on my kid to divert attention away from herself. But then I saw this girl, she was remarkable normal, cute even.

Anyhow, I digress. It started as a simple, "You're stupid." ("Stupid" being considered the S-word in my house.) More remarks followed.

"You don't wear a bra?! That's gross!" (Did I mention she's EIGHT YEARS OLD?)

"Your teeth are bigger than your mama's butt." (Don't I wish!)

"Your mom's car is ugly, it looks fat." (Change "fat" to "phat" and its not so bad.)

And the absolute worst...

"You have a fat *ss." (Seriously, my daughter is built like a string bean!)

Everyday I listened as my sweet girl told me the latest insults of the day. My initial reaction on the first day was advising my daughter to give it right back. "Tell her its gross to wear a bra when you don't have boobs." By the next morning, I had cleared my head enough to realize this was a great opportunity to teach her about grace and forgiveness. We talked about possible reasons why this girls had chosen to go after her, and decided that our best line of defense would be to counter the insults with compliments. "No matter what she says to you, tell her you like her shirt, or her hair is pretty, or what cool shoes she is wearing."

A few days passed and it seemed nothing would make this girl cease and desist. The compliments didn't deter her, although they did leave her with a look of confusion. Then, one night before dinner, as I was saying our blessing, just before the "Amen", Kenley said, "Mom, don't forget about "Suzie".

Well, how about that? She gets it. She understands that love is the answer, God forgives so why shouldn't we, and most importantly, that praying works.

I was beaming! We prayed that God would change "Suzie's" heart and help her learn to be a nicer person. Those prayers went out Monday night AND Tuesday night.

So today, I'm pulling through the carpool line, and instead of looking for my own kid, I'm watching out for "Suzie". In the past, she has given me these glaring, hateful looks as I drove by. Scary faces to see on a child. So I spot her, but she didn't see me yet. She was distracted by the girl beside her, the one with her arm around "Suzie's" shoulder. Hey, that girls looks like...WAIT...that's MY girl! My jaw hit the floor! Kenley spotted me and ran to jump in the car, grinning from ear to ear. "Wh...wh...but...I thought...how..." Kenley said, "She asked me today if I would be her friend and promised not to be mean to me anymore." "Wow!", I said. "God answered our prayers."

I praised Kenley for her ability to not only forgive this girl for all she had done, but then to become her friend. I told her that's just how God loves us. We do all kinds of things that hurt Him, but He never leaves our side - that's forgiveness. He loves us even though we don't always deserve it - that's grace.

"Train a child up in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."
--Proverbs 22:6

In Case I Forgot To Mention It

Today, did you do anything to let those close to you know how you feel about them? I'll be the first to admit that I have much room for improvement in this area. I tell my kids I love them each morning and night, a quick "I love you" whenever I talk to my husband on the phone, but other than that...

Today was the last day for my girls at their current school. In an effort to be more fiscally frugal, we have taken them out of private school. They begin public school tomorrow. Luckily for us, we have great county schools. One county away, this would not be an option. We are disappointed that they won't have Bible classes anymore, but we can take care of that at home and at church. Anyhow, my older daughter was surprised Friday when her teacher presented her with a poster that read "We will miss you!", and was signed by nearly everyone in the 3rd grade. Some just signed their names, but several wrote little messages to her. She said she didn't know that many people liked her that much. I replied, "Why didn't you know?" After the blank stare, I explained to her that people don't know how we feel unless we tell them. We may act friendly, or play together, but the only real way to be sure our friends know we love them is to tell them.

How many people in your life know how much you care? I mean really care. Take the time to let them know. Saying "I love you" isn't enough. After a while, it becomes routine and eventually loses its effect. There are many more ways to say it -- take a friend to lunch, leave a note in your child's bookbag, leave a post-it note on the bathroom mirror for your spouse, make a friendship bracelet (my kids favorite!), bake something yummy even when there's no special occasion, or even just a phone call to say "hi". Whatever it is, whomever it is, do it now. Tell them now. You may not have another chance. Look at all the special friendships my daughter missed out on just because neither knew the other even cared.

---Tell someone you care...today!

Oh, and in case I forgot to mention it, I love you guys!

Respect for Authority

This republican thinks that we all need to save our complaints for the important issues. I try to teach my kids to respect ALL those in authority, not just the ones I voted for. Romans 13:2 says, "anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted". That doesn't mean I have to agree, it just means I am commanded by God to show my respect.


Obama isn't the first President to speak to our students; Bush did it. Even our beloved Reagan did it. Why didn't anyone protest then about politics entering our schools? I have read President Obama's speech. Before you pass judgement, maybe you should, too. I am all for ANYONE who wants to encourage my kids to stay in school, and work hard at it, and to strive to achieve their goals. Here I am, a 39 year old college freshman, finally doing what I wish I had done 21 years ago. Maybe if more people had encouraged me then, I would already be a nurse now.


Our children are the future of our country. We owe it to them to do everything we can to equip them for what lies ahead. If we don't, the state of our union now will seem mild compared to what they will be facing. I want my kids to learn how to make their own informed decisions. I will admit that I am not a fan of Obama, but I try not to openly gripe about him in front of my kids. I hear more and more stories about children arguing in school about Obama. These are elementary aged kids, what do they know about politics? Only what they hear from their parents. They don't even understand it, but they think they have to defend whatever their parents believe. If you ask a child why they like or dislike the President, they can't give a valid reason. Children should be spending less time debating issues they know nothing about, and more time building on their education.


It begins at home. We, as parents, are ultimately responsible. Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." This goes for the bad as well as the good. Plant a pumpkin seed, you get pumpkins. Teach love and tolerance, and you will get kids who look for the good in all things. What do you want for your kids? Think hard about how your words and actions today affect your child's words and actions tomorrow.

This Little Light of Mine

Our garage is in the basement and sometimes, when we come home at night, we like to tease each other by turning out the lights in the stairwell. The girls always let out a squeal as their daddy starts going "OOOOH, OOOOH", like some ghostly figure in Scooby Doo. There are no windows near our stairs, so when the lights go out its darker than dark. You can't even see your hand in front of your face. Its only when the lights come back on that we can find our way up.

Salvation is just like that. In John 3:3 Jesus said, "Unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God." John 3:19 compares salvation with light stating that God is the Light but the people loved darkness more because of their evil ways.

In the same way that light in our homes illuminates our way, it also shows us the dusty tables and floors and imperfections in our walls. As sinners, we tried to avoid the Light because our own imperfections would be exposed. But eventually, in the darkness, we just could no longer find our way. We were spiritually blind.

Jesus is the Light of The World. By turning to Him, our pathway is easier to see and though some dust may remain, only by seeing it can we be wiped clean. And just like coming home on a dark night, only in the Light can you find your way up.

Basic Needs

We've all heard it before. The necessities for life are food, water and shelter. But really, you could live without shelter. Not pleasantly, but a few leaves or a good hole in the ground would suffice. What's left? Food and water... anything else? What about sunlight? Without it the earth would freeze, leaving every living thing to die.

But, have you ever related your physical needs to what is required to sustain your spiritual life?

Food - "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again." John 6:35

Water - "Those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life." (John 4:13)

Light - "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." (John 8:12)

We know how far most people would go to get their basic needs. Fulfilling your spiritual needs is way simpler. God is waiting, always ready to feed you, quench you and light your way. No grocery store lines, waiting lists or SPF numbers.

Girl, Interrupted

I just sat here and deleted the post I was working on. I have been feeling a little overwhelmed. The economy has gotten to me, and I'm scared. I've spent a lot of time going back to Phil. 4:6, "do not worry about anything".

And all the time I'm writing, God is saying, "Shut up, listen. Listen. HEY, you're not listening!" Of course, He's right.

God says, "You wish you had a smaller house and a simpler life, so why do spend so much time worrying about losing these things? Don't you know I'll always make sure you have what you need?"

God says, "These trials will prove your faith and build endurance. And your hope will not lead to disappointment."

Thank you Father, for being what I need, when I need it.

Miracle On The Hudson

I'm watching the numerous interviews with the survivors of this incredible accident yesterday. They have said that after being told to "tuck and brace" there were many audible prayers heard throughout the cabin. This one woman said she was a born-again Christian and that was when she knew they would be okay.

We never hope that it will take a tragedy to bring people to Christ and fortunately, this potential tragedy turned out to be a miracle. God protected these people and blessed the hands of the pilot and they were all saved. God is so great!! Perhaps there were people on board who were not believers but maybe now have a different opinion.

Bad Habits

I'm not very good about changing out the empty roll of toilet paper. I just set a new roll on top of the now empty one. Drives my husband crazy.

Just now, discovered that darling had replaced the roll, except now it feeds from the bottom...WHEN EVERYBODY KNOWS IT SHOULD COME FROM THE TOP! I think its his way of getting even.

Sick Day

We're into day 2 of Chloe's yucky cold. She's my five year old and she's not feeling so well. Nothing serious, coughing, sniffles and a bit of a fever. I'm giving her Tylenol and juice, but what she wants most is Mama's love. So we've also spent lots of time snuggled together under the covers.

Isn't that how it always goes? Whenever our kids are sick, or hurt, or sad, they run to their parents for comfort. And we're always there, waiting with open arms. And if you're like me, you savor these moments knowing that, as the years pass, they will become fewer and fewer. We all grow up and want to take care of ourselves.

I think God often feels the same. He sees His children suffering and wants so badly to comfort us. But our independant nature makes us think that we can handle it all on our own. Just like our own children, He can't hold us unless we run to Him first. And don't you know that He cherishes each and every minute we spend just "being" with Him?

When we are dealing with all our grownup issues, why are we so stubborn and insist that we can fix things ourselves? We spend so much time grumbling over our woes and so little time resting in The Father's arms. Most of the time, all it takes for our kids is a good hug and they're off and running again.

So next time you fall (into sadness, illness, or just plain crabbiness), remember that God is always there ready to hold you and make it all better.

Paying It Forward

A lovely and Godly woman blessed me with this award. If you don't know Sherri Watt, you can visit her site here. Thanks for spreading the love, Sherri!

I'll be passing this award on to other deserving bloggers and I encourage you to check them out and be inspired, as I have been.

Shaun Groves' Shlog
Marlo - The Joyful Christian Wife
Valerie Lynn - Simply 4 God
Trey Morgan's Blog
Jamie - Rose Cottage

Now, if you're so moved, pass this on to other bloggers you love. Just add the logo on your page, link to your favorite blogs and be sure to let 'em know. Now go spread some love.

My not-so-subtle God

Tonight I had my first care team meeting. Let me backup a bit. I have never been the type to get too involved. I don't feel obligated to buy girl scout cookies, or wrapping paper or pizza kits from school kids. I'm not the mom who attends every single field trip or drags her kids to a dozen activities every week. It's just not me. Call me lazy, appathetic, scared... okay maybe that last one. Especially when it comes to church stuff.

For those of us who didn't grow up in church, do you remember that feeling of never wanting to go to Sunday school because you just knew they were going to ask you to list the descendants of Adam? That's me! I've never read the Bible cover-to-cover but I know the basics. I'm learning more everyday.

Well, I've been feeling a bit convicted about serving the Lord. I've had a few people approach me about volunteering at church, but a lot of it would take me away from the main service. I just feel like I need Pastor Jerry's message each week, like I just need to be fed. But our church (only just over a year old) has decided its time to put together a care team. I missed the initial meeting a few weeks ago. I had planned on going but something came up. I figured, "Oh well, I probably wouldn't have been good at it anyway." And I let it go, thought God would let me know where to go.

Yeah, in that not-so-subtle way that God likes to deal with me, He let me know. Somehow, the team leader ended up with my e-mail address. So I was being included in the first few prayer/care requests. I may be dumb, but I'm not stupid! I don't know why me for this, but who am I to question Sovereignty?! Okay, okay Lord, you don't have to shove! (a gentle nudge, maybe)

And so, I made it to tonight's meeting. I had such a nice time, met lots of new people and left feeling really fired up about this new opportunity. We listened to a woman whose little boy died after a three year battle with brain cancer. She turned her tragedy into a foundation (The Jay's Hope Foundation) that assists families of children with cancer. Talk about triumph over adversity! She lost her son only 2 years ago, but firmly believes that God led her through that storm to prepare her for this work, this labor of love. She was quite inspirational, to say the least.

So here I go, serving God, blindly. It's okay though, I've got His eyes to guide me and His words to come through me. Just don't ask me about Adam's descendants!

Compassion International

In case you haven't taken a little time to browse around my page, let me draw your attention to the little box just to the right of this post. Its a link for Compassion International. I think many of you are aware of this organization, but for those who aren't, take a minute to check them out. They are doing a great job of ministering to impoverished children and their families all around the world.

Sponsoring a child is pretty inexpensive when you consider all that they provide. And if you're like me, I always wonder how much of my money actually goes to helping the kids. Compassion boasts that 83.5% of all money goes directly toward the programs, leaving only 16.5% for administrative and fundraising costs. I learned about Compassion when I started reading Shaun Groves' blog (or Shlog, as he likes to call it!). He's a funny, entertaining blogger and an extremely gifted singer/songwriter. You can check out his page here. Its definately worth the click!

I'm really not trying to be a cyber-marketer but I like spreading the word about a worthwhile cause. Even if you cannot sponsor a child right now, you can still help by pasting one of their links on your own home page. They have lots of styles to choose from and one of your readers just might help a desperate child in need.

Thanks ya'll and God bless!!
(1.8 lbs lost, 26.2 to go!)

Another Resolution

I had a one of those "ah-ha" moments at church today. It made me realize that I complain too much. I'm not one of those completely pessimistic nay-sayers, but I think in my quest to learn more about God and His ways, I might come off as a griper. Or one of those people in constant need of reassurance. I've been around people like that, I don't want to be one.

I realize I spend a lot of time praying for things that I want and/or need. Not that these are frivolous requests, most of them weigh heavy on my heart. You might even say I tend to "grieve" over a few. At church today, God reminded me to be happy with what I have been given, and thankful to Him for providing. God doesn't want me wasting so much time focusing on what I still want. My worrying and grieving won't make it happen any faster. God's timing is perfect and it'll happen when it happens.

This is not to say that I shouldn't pray or I should just stand by waiting for God to do whatever it is He's going to do. Prayer keeps us in communication with God, enables us to hear from Him and perpetuates the relationship He desires with us. But I need to pray and then wait, no matter how long it may take.

Some prayers go unanswered, for our own good. Others just take time, who knows why. If we knew God's plans, we would probably find shortcuts in them and miss out on some of the opportunities to learn and savor His power.

So, one more resolution: Trust in God and wait for Him. After all, He's the one leading the way, not me. Happy New Year!

Another year, and another opportunity for a "fresh" start of sorts. Why do we consider this a time to start over? Isn't the new year just the day after the old year? Nonetheless, most of us will resolve to do things differently, better hopefully. I'm no different. I have made my resolutions, only this time I won't simply rely on my own will to succeed. My first and most important resolution is to further strengthen my relationship with God. Its a two-way street and while God is always sending me messages, I must remember to stop long enough to listen.

Secondly, I plan to eat healthier and excercise. Such a typical resolution, right? What makes this year different is that I won't simply depend on myself to get up earlier to workout, or keep my hands off the kids' snacks, or stay away from the sushi bar. I pray God will keep me ever mindful that my body is His body and that to accomplish all He has planned for me, I must take care of myself. And I know that apart from Him I can do nothing, but with God, all things are possible.

Lastly, I will quit smoking (again). I quit in September 2007 but started again in May 2008. Nine months without cigarettes down the drain. It wasn't so hard before but I was using medication. My doctor won't give me that anymore since there have been some bad reports associated with the drug. I've tried patches in the past but they didn't help the habit, only the addiction. I hope it will be easier this time because I know I've done it before, and I remember how much better I felt and how much easier it was to breathe. And unlike before, I have God.

So there it is. My list for 2009. I will begin my diet and excercise program Monday and quit smoking as soon as I finish the pack I have now. I think maybe I'll try to add a ticker to my posts to track my progress. I'm depending on all of you to hold me accountable. And when I slip, nudge me back on track and then kick me in the pants.

Any of you have resolutions you's like to share? We could encourage each other. Happy New Year! I hope God blesses your socks off!!