Because we're all just diamonds in the rough.

I've become quite taken with this quote.  I started thinking about diamonds and how we really are a lot like this beautiful gem. Have you ever been curious to know how diamonds are made? I'm not talking about the lab created diamonds most of us are wearing on our fingers, around our necks, or our ears. I'm talking about the organic nature made stones.

Diamonds were formed deep within the earth underneath the mantle (didn't know I was going to be all scientific did you?). What I've gleaned is, it gets ridiculously hot and there is a ginormous amount of pressure. When the heat and pressure combine with the carbon material diamonds are formed. These precious stones forced to the earths surface via volcanic eruptions.

Can you see how we're alot like diamonds?

• formed in the "secret place" in the middle of the earth, (My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.Psalm 139:15 NIV)

We experience the pressures of this life all the time!

•  We are refined by the fire of the holy spirit (This third I will put into the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are my people,’ and they will say, ‘The Lord is our God.’ ”Zechariah 13:9 NIV) and brought to the surface covered in sediment, maybe dirt and ash. 
• We surely aren't shaped in a perfect diamond. Because, when we are found we are covered in sin and completely misshapen. BUT GOD. Just like the diamond miner, he spots something shiny. He carefully chips away at the rock and sediment around us. Chipping off what is dead and not producing light. Carefully, he extracts us and examines us  (Test me, Lord , and try me, examine my heart and my mind;Psalm 26:2 NIV).  
• He smoothes off the rough places, shapes us (giving us many light reflecting facets) and holds us up in his hand (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.Isaiah 41:10 NIV) to examine his handiwork.

I've been mesmerized by the lyrics to a favorite (new) song.

I wanna magnify Your light/I wanna reflect the sun/ Cut like precious diamonds/ With colors by the millions

~ Light Shine Bright, Toby Mac

Shining bright for his kingdom,


Linking today with Bonnie Gray's #OneWordCoffee

Blessings,

Linking with Bonnie Gray at #onewordcoffee

The weather here in the Midwest is teasing us  with it's springlike temperatures and sun filled skies. The spring bulbs are even a bit confused, bursting forth with new green chutes. Buds hang heavy near the old shed waiting for their moment to Bloom.

The birds have come to perch in our old walnut trees as they cackle and sing back and forth. A woodpecker has found the perfect place to make his home and most afternoons he works and works.....and works. He rat-a-tats so much, I wonder if he gets a headache?

Today is one of those days.  The clouds are perfect for gazing.  Searching for shapes and signs. When I was about 14 or 15, my bedroom was directly above our garage. Some afternoons like this I would quietly climb upon my bed, slide the window open and climb out onto the roof. I would lay there and cloud gaze. Those were the days before social media and the video games in the late 80's/early 90's, were a far cry from today.  I survived on Music and Seventeen magazine.

Those early years, I discovered my true passion.  I spent hours with my notebooks and journals writing poems, song lyrics, doodling my name (and I never could write in those way cool bubble letters like my friends).

I've always had a creative spirit. Like an artist,   I create my 'pieces' with words and feelings. Blending in a soft stroke of my faith sometimes. Yet other times, I write about my faith with a bold pop of color.

I often wonder why God would have me at a desk job.  Sitting behind the dull green cubicle walls (decorated affectionately with my son's pictures and artwork) click clacking away, file after file.
 Some days I find my rhythm but, most days, the struggle is real. And I realize "the struggle is real" is such an overused statement but, can I tell you something?  There are days my hands begin to shake. Not in trepidation or fear. Its this longing for my pen and paper or the feel of MY keyboard at my fingertips.  The words pouring out and the clickety-clack sounds like beautiful music. Because I'm creating something.  The pull some days is SO severe I have to scratch the itch and jot ideas down (on breaks of course).  If you could see the inside of my tote, I have  notes on top of notes with plenty of words on them.
Words to sift through and find the precious nuggets I enjoy sharing with you in this space.
Because, sometimes when I open my mouth, the words that come out sound nothing like what trickles out of my finger tips.

I talked to a kindred last week. A pastor's wife. We discussed the fact we were both very introverted.  I was surprised to find how alike we were in that sense.  The "I enjoy coming to bible study but, honestly it's hard when you prefer spending your evenings at home (with your people)."
I joined a women's bible study a couple of months ago and when our leader asked us to take turns praying (OUT LOUD?) for each other, I admit I almost wet my pants. I wanted to say "wait, can I just have an hour or two,  can I pass until next week? You see, I can write it out on paper, feelings and all but to have someone ask me unexpectedly (or even expectedly) to pray out loud? Its like test anxiety to me."

 I. Blank. Out.

You know what? I ended up doing it anyway.  I think my eyes almost popped out of my head and my jaw hit the floor when I was called upon to start it off.
 By golly I did it though.
 I honestly don't remember what I said (maybe that's a good thing?) but, after I did I realized it wasn't so bad.  I've been making it a point to be open to praying out loud now. I even have offered to pray over our little family before bedtime.  This might not seem like much to you, but it's been a huge hurdle that the devil set up for me.  I finally cleared it and heaped a few burning coals on his head as I sailed over. (wink).

I'm just sharing from my heart today.  So, let me ask you, what hurdles have you faced and cleared by taking a step out in faith?


Blessings,

Linking today with Bonnie Gray at #OneWordCoffee

When I was a little girl, I would laugh every time she would say that. Her Jimmy Durante accent and all.  "Goodnight Mrs. Calabash" and she would giggle.

We lost my Grandma a week ago.  After a string of illnesses, a broken hip, and another infection left her body weak and unable to fight. The tough old lady that she was, I knew she fought hard.  Strength was her middle name (not really, it was Jean) and she proved a lot of people wrong over the years.  Raising children at times as a single mother, running a business in the 50's and 60's. She wore so many hats I don't know how she kept it together.  Maybe, because back then times weren't so complicated by the technology we have today. Instead of being sidetracked by cell phones, computers, so many television channels to choose from, she just showed up and did it.

When I was born, Grandma (and Grandpa) lived close and one of my first memories of her comes from being in her kitchen. That was one of her many gifts. She could COOK!  I remember an endless supply of chocolate chip cookies that came from a olive green Tupperware container. Meals were always big and there was lots to go around. She knew how to cook for an army!

After my Grandpa had a serious heart attack when I was about 4, they quickly moved south to avoid the cold Midwestern winters. I hated to see my family go. Everyone moved but us.
Our visits south were only twice a year and would last a week or two. We would drive 2 days to get there and I always knew I was in for a big squeeze of a hug when we arrived.

Every Christmas, Grandma made enough cookies to last clear into the new year. She made so many different kinds!
 One of my most favorite memories is, how she would make sure we got to spend time in the kitchen together making popcorn balls. It didn't matter if we rolled in on Christmas eve, she would get out the roasting pan, the air popper, and a pan of bubbling hot sugar syrup.  We would laugh and she would tell us how to get it just right.  Lots of butter! big sticks of butter we would rub all over our hands so the popcorn and syrup wouldn't stick to us but stick together as we would mold them with our little hands. Brenda Lee crooning "Rockin' around the Christmas Tree" would be playing and everything was right in the world.

A few years ago, I had been especially blue and missing childhood Christmases. She must have sensed it because, a box arrived on our doorstep. As my husband carried it in and handed it to me, he said "don't open it yet. Just smell it!"  The smell of sweet popcorn was evident without opening the box and I stood there crying great big happy tears.  Grandma had been thinking of me and she had remembered our tradition that we both loved so much. They tasted just as good as I remembered.

After my son was born, we didn't make it down to visit much at all. we talked here and there on the phone, sent pictures but, it wasn't the same. Every Christmas I would try to be excited but my heart was always a little sad and longing for the old Christmases.

When my son finally got to meet his great Grandma, he was about 2 years old. We made it a point to visit in the summers and she did make it up a handful of times to see us.  Oh did they make fast friends! Every day after school he would go visit with Great Grandma until we got home from work. I could see her heart swell when he told her he loved her and gave her hugs.

I think the hardest part is seeing our son and his first real experience of losing someone he loved very much.  She left such an impression on him in the few short years they got to know one another.  When we sat him down to tell him that she was finally with Jesus, we all cried really hard.  You think as a parent you should be the strong one but you know what? it's OK. I'm finding out it's actually quite healthy for children to see you grieve. We've had a good chat he and I. Just because he is a boy, doesn't mean he isn't allowed to cry. It's OK to show emotion and it's not OK to hold it all in and pretend everything is OK. I'm teaching him early because, it took me 30 plus years to figure this little gem of advice out.

Another gem?

I just learned that you can be some one's rock but, that doesn't mean you have to hold it together and not express your grief. I always thought being some one's rock equated to sucking it up and holding it together for someone (or everyone) else.  Years of trying to be that rock, the one that held it together and stuffed it all in  caused a lot of emotional and physical issues.  It's amazing how much better you feel in the end if you just allow those tears to come and those emotions to flow.  So yes, you can be some one's rock, support them, love on them, listen to them, stand beside them, hold their hand, PRAY for them but, also know you can feel your feelings too.

I honestly felt as if God had lifted me up out of the deep pool of grief the first of this year. I came up for a good cleansing breath after such a long time of grieving and healing from  the loss of my dear friend.
This time though, I started grieving early. We knew about two weeks before Grandma passed that her time here on this earth was coming to an end very soon. Can I tell you that it doesn't make the hurt go away any faster knowing ahead of time. Sure, it makes it a little easier knowing she is no longer bedridden and ill. However,  having peace in my heart, knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt where she is, and who she is with, far outweighs the heaviness of this burden called grief.  I've been on both sides of this spectrum now.  Having known someone who has tragically left this world with so many unanswered questions and then the other side, knowing Grandma didn't have much time left and being able to begin grieving sooner.  Honestly, I"m not sure which of the two I would rather chose. Losing anybody you love is never easy. Even knowing they are safe in the arms of Jesus.

Until we meet again Grandma. #ILY


Blessings,

**Linking with Bonnie Gray at #OneWordCoffee

There were nights several years ago when I was awakened by the tight, unrelenting grip of a panic attack. Thankfully, those nights are behind me now. These days (or should I say nights), I am occasionally awakened by God and prompted to pray.

It's very early on a Saturday morning, the waning, silvery, moon is shining a pattern on the bedroom floor. I peek out the window to see the dedicated men are meeting up and preparing for another day of ice fishing. Soon, the lakeside street will be lined with pickup trucks and the shanties will pepper the partially frozen lake.

I glance over to my warm bed and see my boy, all eleven years of him, long arms and legs sprawling across our queen size bed. I've barely any room to climb back in but manage to scoot him over enough to curl up next to him. I wrap my arms around him and take a trip down memory lane. All of those sleepless nights when he was a baby. All of the different stages of babyhood.

Seems like a breath away.

"He's growing up Mama..." the hubs reminds me. And sometimes, I just want to hit the rewind button.

One of my favorites. He used to point out where the squirrels were to our Jo.

It's so important to be praying for our kiddos. I've been praying for mine before he was bouncing around in my tummy. However, God has shown us that our prayers have become too vanilla. A going through the motions type. These years we have  with them are critical. I feel like HE  is challenging me and telling me "Daughter, it's time to get specific and you better be ready for battle."
You see, the bible says the devil roams around like a lion seeking to steal, kill, and destroy (see 1Peter 5:8). We cannot let our guard down. It's so easy to do especially, when things are going well. That's when you create an opening for him to sneak in and spread his terrible diseases.

As I lay here listening to the deep breathing of slumber and see the outline of his precious head, I am praying for him. He is entering a confusing time in a kiddos life. That space between just being a kid and heading quickly towards 'teendom'. It's my motherly duty. Covering him in prayers of protection and petitioning for his future. Interceding on his behalf (all while dodging elbows and knees).

As a mother, I must understand that my actions and my words are creating the framework for his thought and belief system. Therefore, I need to be mindful of what I am saying and doing and how I am doing it.   For instance, I really didn't realize how impatient of a driver I was until my son became my backseat driver.  Telling everyone on the road how to drive and where the gas pedal was.

 Hello reality check!

  I also didn't realize what a negative Nelly I had been until he would come home from school and complain about every little thing that happened.  I realized, our evenings when we shared about our day, he was hearing my husband and I vent about our day at work. We weren't sharing about the good things that happened as much as we were about the things that made us most crazy!

  I'm putting this out there because, it's real life!   We had to sit down with him and explain how our conversations should be positive and uplifting. Maybe, Mom and Dad need to exert a bit more patience when we are driving and give the other drivers grace.  Maybe, our evening conversations we should start sharing only positive stories and talking about the good things we experienced that day.

Parents,  we all know kids don't come with an owners manual. We can read every parenting resource on the market today but the only one truly able to help us become better parents is God's word.


Here are some of my go to passages:

Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you. Ephesians 4:29GNB

I am the Lord your God; I strengthen you and say, "do not be afraid, I will help you."  Isaiah 41:13

Do what your father tells you, my son, and never forget what your mother taught you. Keep their words with you always, locked in your heart. Their teaching will lead you when you travel, protect you at night, and advise you during the day. Their instructions are a shining light; their correction can teach you how to live.  Proverbs 6:20-23GNB

Linking today with #OneWordCoffee

Blessings,

I ran into the grocery store the other day and right in front of me, was a display of strawberries! In January no less!  I walked over to inspect the fruit before I got too excited.  Our family LOVES strawberries. We are always so sad to see them go away in the fall. This was definitely a sweet surprise. As I picked up each carton and examined the fruit, I found 2 packages full of plump red deliciousness and they had to come home with us!

After dinner, and between loads of laundry, I soaked the berries in water and vinegar to get them squeaky clean. as I pulled out my colander and rinsed them, the earthy smell of summer invaded my senses. Grabbing my paring knife, I went to work slicing the tops and cutting them into halves then, quarters.  Do you know, nearly every berry I touched was without blemish?  As I got to the bottom of the bowl a few smaller berries and one quite large beauty left. I picked it up and examined it. as I turned it over in my hand, it looked perfect all the way around until I gently lifted the wet leaves. The whole top of the berry was brown and mushy. I recoiled a bit. I thought I might be able to save this berry. Maybe if I cut the decay off it could be salvaged. As I cut into the berry, I found it could not be saved. Too much decay and rot had made its way to the inner fruit.  That's when I felt the nudge.

How many people have "bad spots, decay, brown and mushy lives"? You chose to throw the strawberry away because it was no good to you. People are just like fruit. Not everyone is perfectly round and ripe for the picking. Some are green and underdeveloped while others, become subject to spoil. I turn no one away.

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
Matthew 11:28-30 MSG

Linking today with The Faith Barista #OneWordCoffee

                              

We awakened the day after Christmas where all the excitement and unopened packages had  given way to new toys and clothes piled a bit haphazardly under the tree.

My family ventured out amidst the shoppers looking for rock bottom prices (winter coats are cheap here since we've not really had winter yet) and those looking to make returns.  We found a game for our son's new gaming system and looked for an associate to help us.  A young man (wearing the store's signature blue vest) stood intently in front of another case appearing to be looking for something.  My husband approached him "excuse me, sir?"  The young man looked up, annoyed to be interrupted. "Could you get a game out for us?" He fished for his key and retrieved the game. Another associate hollered over "can you take care of this man when you are done?" Annoyed associate grumbled something and told him just a moment. We walked to the cash register and I could sense a hurting soul.
As I stood there with my husband and my son, this man would not make eye contact or small talk, I noticed his fingernails were long and shaped into sharp looking points. He hurriedly grabbed the ringing telephone as he finished our transaction and we didn't get to say thank you. Well, we tried to but, the lack of eye contact didn't play into our favor.

As we walked out of the busy superstore past the lines of carts full of gift wrap and half off Christmas decor, my heart was hurting for that young man.
My son started to ask about him and the hubs quietly said "let's talk about this in a minute when we get to the car."  I kept thinking of the hurt written all over his face and I wanted to go back into the busy store and find him. I wanted to tell him whether he believed it or not, he is loved.

The car ride home opened up a huge discussion with our son. It was a discussion about loving our neighbors. Loving them when everyone else is looking down their noses and judging them for the way they look and how they live their lives.  Some folks have been dealt a bad hand and they are used to ostracism. They become callous to so called "Christians" that are quick to judge on looks alone.
The hubs brought up the story in the book of Matthew where Jesus was always having dinner and hanging out with the tax collectors and the prostitutes. The Pharisees (like some Christians today) asked "UGH, Why would he hang out with THOSE people?".
When Jesus heard them he was like "you don't go to the doctor when you're well!" I often wonder if he utilized a bit of sarcasm here.

While Jesus was having a meal in Matthew's house, many tax collectors and other outcasts came and joined Jesus and his disciples at the table. Some Pharisees saw this and asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such people?”  Jesus heard them and answered, “People who are well do not need a doctor, but only those who are sick.  Go and find out what is meant by the scripture that says: ‘It is kindness that I want, not animal sacrifices.’ I have not come to call respectable people, but outcasts.”
Matthew 9:10-13 GNB

Yes, it's easy to look the other way. It's also easy to prejudge a book by it's cover but, that's where we as Christians need to reevaluate.  Jesus sought people out that everyone else stayed away from. He brought the light TO them.  Now, it's our turn! Shine bright my friends. Smile, offer a kind word, turn a few pages and you might find a diamond in the rough.

The second most important commandment is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as you love yourself.’
Matthew 22:39 GNB

Linking with The Faith Barista's #onewordcoffee

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy God sent the angel Gabriel to a town in Galilee named Nazareth. He had a message for a young woman promised in marriage to a man named Joseph, who was a descendant of King David. Her name was Mary. The angel came to her and said, “Peace be with you! The Lord is with you and has greatly blessed you!”  Mary was deeply troubled by the angel's message, and she wondered what his words meant. The angel said to her, “Don't be afraid, Mary; God has been gracious to you. You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High God. The Lord God will make him a king, as his ancestor David was, and he will be the king of the descendants of Jacob for ever; his kingdom will never end!”  Mary said to the angel, “I am a virgin. How, then, can this be?”  The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and God's power will rest upon you. For this reason the holy child will be called the Son of God. Remember your relative Elizabeth. It is said that she cannot have children, but she herself is now six months pregnant, even though she is very old. For there is nothing that God cannot do.”  “I am the Lord's servant,” said Mary; “may it happen to me as you have said.” And the angel left her.
Luke 1:26-38 GNB

When I started thinking about how the story of Jesus began I went right to these verses.  Mary wasn't famous. In fact, Mary was a young peasant girl.  God could have chosen anyone. He didn't pick a girl from a well known family of aristocratic lineage. He didn't pick a girl that the majority would have picked.  He picked Mary. Because she was a virgin and she had a pure heart.

Chosen by God to bear a son... His son! She was chosen and met by  the angel Gabriel who delivered the news. After being quite concerned and confused, asking "How can this be?" She responded with "I am the Lords servant," and "may it happen to me as you have said."  Though she did not quite fathom what was about to happen, she trusted God for the child she was preparing to give birth to.

Pure Joy.

When the angel visited Mary he told her of Elizabeth and Zechariah and how they were expecting a child even though they "were both very old".  Gabriel visit them also to tell them of this great news.  Mary set out to Judea to meet with Elizabeth. When Mary arrived Elizabeth heard her greeting and the baby in her tummy leaped for joy!
if you read further Elizabeth speaks a word to Mary.  The words she spoke caused Mary to become truly excited and start praising God. I really love the way The Message bible translates it! the translation says "I'm bursting with God-news;"!  God news!  I would've loved to be a fly on the wall to watch these two friends celebrating the ginormous blessings they were both about to receive.
I remember how excited I was to be pregnant with my son and happy to be pregnant. The day he was born, I remember being so overcome that the moment they laid his little body on my chest, I was laughing and crying at the same time. I could only imagine the intensity of the Joy Mary felt to be carrying the one THE ONE who would be an atonement for all of us!

We are the chosen.



Just like Mary, God has chosen us. Each and every one. He knows the number of hairs on our head, he has our name engraved on the palms of his hands.  He knows all of our stories. Even the stories we've not spoken. He knows.  The author of our lives has already written our stories. He knows each and every choice we will make. No matter the choice, He offers us grace and he loves us any way.  Sometimes I just can't wrap my head around how much He loves me.

So as we prepare for the gaherings with family and friends, wrap the gifts, bake the cookies, prepare the big meals. Can I ask you to take just one small moment?
Take a moment to reflect upon the fact that YOU were chosen by (His) LOVE.


He chose us, will we choose Him?

Linking with The Faith Barista's #OneWordAdvent



Christmas Blessings,

Every year Thanksgiving ushers in the holiday season and every holiday season, brings about a somewhat chaotic course of human events. We rush here and there, we shop, we bake, we eat, we trim trees, hang lights and stockings, light our menorahs, follow the advent, rush off to Christmas plays and concerts, parties.. for a full month and then some.  Some embrace the hustle and bustle, the running here and there, making it their goal to do and to be everything.

This time of year isn't always beautiful and light for everyone.  Maybe, it's because most everyone is consumed with making things Merry and Bright that they don't notice the hurting people they may encounter this season.

The hurting don't necessarily tell you they are in pain, they try to blend in and go unnoticed. Some paint on a smile and go through the motions trying to block out the pain with food or alcohal. Others let you know they are hurting by how they interact. A wise woman once said "hurting people, hurt people" and this is true. I see it every day.

Families are dealing with illnesss,  the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, trying to split time between several families....

A smile and a kind word goes a long way. An offer to go for lunch or coffee, reaching out to show someone the light and the love of Jesus can warm the aching heart of the hurting.

Lord God, This time of year we are spread thin and tired. We try to do it all and wear ourselves out trying. Show us how to slow down and savor the little moments.

So many are hurting this time of year, Father send you angels to soothe and to bring your light to warm hearts and feel love everlasting.

Heal the hurting, mend the broken, hold the greiving, bring peace to us all with your message of love.

In His magnificent name, Jesus
Amen

Christmas blessings,

Funny how much the word peace has been chasing me lately. First, I see the word for the #OneWordAdvent this week is peace. Then, my pastor preached specifically about peace over the weekend! Every song I've heard has had something to do with peace. Especially when this week has been lacking in the peace department.
Maybe, this is God's way of telling me to slow down and not allow the little minor annoyances become major peace stealers!

I sat down to write and yet again felt the draw to try my hand at another short poem.

          Perfect peace you'll find
         For body, spirit, and mind
                 Our Emmanuel
         Saviour King of the world
         Shining His light for all men
                                                -KS

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
2 Corinthians 1:3-7 NIV

 Linking with The Faith Barista's #OneWordAdvent


Blessings,

Excited for a new challenge from Bonnie at The Faith Barista.  A new word to reflect upon each week of the advent season.  I've been playing around with poetry in my journals, notebooks and random pieces of paper. An old passion of mine from long ago, I found it not too hard to begin again.  One of my favorites was the haiku. Short, sweet, and to the point.

Hope.

In Romans if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience (Romans 8:25 GNB)   In Colossians, When the true message, the Good News, first came to you, you heard about the hope it offers. So your faith and love are based on what you hope for, which is kept safe for you in heaven (Colossians 1:5GNB)

Do you see it too? do you see how everyone gets weary this time of year? we've all run out of steam? are we trying too hard, working too hard, running here and there, trying to keep up with everyone else's status updates in our news feed?  Stop. It's time to reevaluate.  You don't have to do all the things, be all of the people, run to and fro (all the while running ragged)!  Take a moment and remember it's not about the things of this world. This time of year, it's all about the celebration of the Christ! How he came, how he died for all and how he is coming back again!
We need to have HOPE stirring in our hearts this season. The hope of Jesus!

Blessings,


Linking with Bonnie Gray #onewordadvent

 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16 NIV


Linking today with Coffee for your heart - Holley Gerth

"You're new to all of this aren't you?" The lady with the over sized dark glasses said to me over the pharmacy counter. I must've had a look on my face like she was speaking in an unknown language. Pre-Approvals, Insurance, and a subtle jab at our pediatrician "they never follow up on these things. You should call them first thing tomorrow if you want to get the ball rolling on this."  I shook my head at her and looked down at the big sticker she had already slapped onto the prescription sitting on the counter. No, unfortunately I'm not. We're having trouble getting my son's regular prescription filled because the manufacturer can't keep up. I thought if we had the doctor call something else in that was more readily available, I wouldn't have to deal with this so much.
She stared at me from behind her big dark glasses. I couldn't tell if she was rolling her eyes or looking at me with sincerity. "Well, that's all we can do right now. WE just have to wait" she said all sing songy. "So, you're telling me I can't come pick this up tomorrow?" I asked. "Well, it just depends on your insurance and the doctor following through..." My face started to feel numb and the room began to tilt. I felt my chest get tight and the air starting to get thin. I had to get out of there!

The night before, I had picked our son up on my way home from work and explained to him what was going on. To prepare him for what could happen. I assured him that I had this under control and "we aren't going to worry about this. Right?" "God will take care of this. It's just a test." I encouraged him. I gave him the scenarios but never did I think I'd have to tell him my plans didn't go according to what I thought.

If any of you have a child that has to take medicine every day, you know how unnerving it can be when you're down to the last bit and the pharmacy, read no pharmacy in a decent radius has any or, can get any until who knows when!  We've resorted to giving him half doses thinking it would buy us enough time to get what we need. I call the doctor and explain what has happened and he is kind enough to call something else in.  But, when you go to get it filled and the first pharmacy associate looks at you and laughs in your face exclaiming, "I don't know WHY they would even write this! Nobody will have it!" I took a step back and said "really?" Surely, this will all work out. I'll just try another brand of pharmacy.

As I left the pharmacy with the words of the lady in dark glasses ringing in my ears, I was almost in tears as I got to my car. How are we going to do this?  My son needs this medicine.  It's not a life or death situation I assure you.  But, when you have a child that has trouble focusing and needs meds to help him concentrate in class, you'd totally understand.  Yes, I know lots of people that have attention deficit some who choose to medicate and some who can handle it on their own. We realized almost four years ago that our son does much better with meds. He went from failing school to bringing his grades up to all A's in one grading period.

As I drove down through the city, my husband called to find out what was going on. He told me to go home and relax. There's nothing more I could do at this point. I wanted to call my friend and vent to her but, I felt a small tug and a whisper. "You don't need to vent to anyone but me. Trust me." The lump in my throat and tears that were forming in my eyes slowly faded away. As I navigated a busy narrow street during rush hour I was reminded by the song on the radio softly playing in the background. "I will trust in you /You've never failed before/ I will trust in you."

I had said it the night before to our son "we have to trust that God will take care of this and of you."

I think there's a message here... and so, while we play the waiting game to see which pharmacy is going to come through for our son, we have to fall back on a verse that someone reminded me of several years ago. Times were so bad back then, It was scary and I honestly didn't know what was going to happen next. This person would remind me constantly of:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5 NIV

AND

Joshua 1:9 is my son's favorite verse. We remind him of this one a lot...

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you where ever you go."

Linking today with Coffee For Your Heart - Holley Gerth

It's November 1st and I made it! I may not have 31 posts but I'm darn near close.  This past month has been a HUGE learning and growth process for me.  I see how much time and dedication others have put into this challenge and I stand in awe of you all.  So many beautiful people sharing their hearts, their passions, and their journeys for 31 days straight! It's a great privilege to write along side each one of them.

I know my subject matter is way off the beaten path that I'm comfortable with. I'm looking forward to slipping on the comfy sweats and getting back to writing what's truly on my heart.  This challenge has definitely stirred within me a desire to continue. Forever 31 mama will continue as a sweet friend used to say "Lord's will".  My heart wants to keep encouraging others and sharing what others might be feeling but too afraid to say.

I know most people that do weight loss challenges post before and after pictures. I'm not one to prance around in my swimsuit or tiny little shorts and a sports bra. Know this, the numbers on the scale are neither increasing or decreasing. However, I tried on a pair of winter slacks yesterday and while they were a bit too tight to wear in public, I feel pretty confident that I will be wearing them comfortably very soon!  I also need to come clean and tell you my struggle with sweets is real. I've dipped into the plastic pumpkin a time too many. This makes me realize that I cannot have sweets in my house period! If they are there, and it's something I like, I will find myself with it in my hands and inevitably in my mouth. Ugh!  Praise God I've found my triggers and I know that I need to stay away from the goodies.

I pray you (If you're still following) were able to glean something from this series/challenge. If anything I pray your heart was in some way encouraged by the words of my heart.

Cheers!

Can I be honest for a moment... these last few days of the challenge have really been rough! I'm trying to catch up and keep up slowly but surely!

Yesterday, I talked about having a manifesto for yourself. Something I am going to try to work on (maybe before this is over).... This is a great lead into today's post!

Start each day with goals... you could set goals to get a healthy breakfast on the table for the whole family. Pack a healthy lunch and snacks so the vending machines don't start trying to get your attention with their overpriced junk food. Goals to spend so many minutes a day with your family and no, I repeat, NO technology!

Find the best in others...sometimes this is so hard to do. Try to look at those people that seem a bit like sandpaper with a bit of grace. Seek out their good qualities.

Be the best version of you... Shine on! Be you and nobody else. It's taken me thirty some years to figure out that I don't have to be like everyone else. I can do my own thing and be different!

Lastly,

Believe anything is possible...  If you believe you can do it, you can! Don't give up even if you stumble, you're still further along than you would be had you never taken the first step... am I right? (Smile!)

 Trick or Treat at my house was last Thursday. I know I said I was going to deny myself any of my sons treats and I planned to. However, there was an almond joy or two (fun size of course!), I had to make an adjustment. Moderation right?

the force that drives something forward to keep it moving. 

What drives you to keep moving onward and upward?  Is it the sense of accomplishment after a good workout, maybe the feeling of slipping an old pair of jeans on that used to be a bit too snug.  Knowing that (Lord's will) you're making healthier choices so you'll be around a lot longer to enjoy your kids and grand kids?

All of those are definitely good reasons to keep going.

I've been searching Pinterest for some inspiration lately and found this Manifesto for 2015.  Yes, I realize there are only about 2 months left in the year (for real?) But, I thought this was definitely something to help when the momentum needs kicked up a notch.

Guard your time... what does that mean for you? Does that mean waking up a little earlier to get a workout in or, cutting back on social media so you can spend some quality time with your family. Make sure you make time for taking care of you too!

Let kindness rule!  I really love this one. Each day we are faced with many different people and situations. The person on the other end of the phone, across the counter at the coffee shop, behind the executive desk at work, they may be having a really rough day. A smile, a word of encouragement, a kind gesture could speak volumes to them.

Create good habits.... That's what we're doing in these 31 days. Creating good habits and leaving the bad habits in the dust behind us. Look for ways to make small changes and turn those smaller changes into bigger changes.


Choose to focus on the good. I look at it like this. Focus on the positives. Instead of being bummed out that the scale isn't moving as quickly as you'd like, notice how much more energy you have and your clothes that fit a bit too snugly are starting to get loose. Or, you may have indulged and eaten a little too much over the weekend (or overall, just had a bad week). Focus on the fact that you are able to start over again right away. One overindulgent meal or a bad week won't set you back too far don't let that critical inner voice tell you to give up. Celebrate the moments where you chose the healthier options.

Tomorrow I'll break down the other half of the Manifesto.

If you created a manifesto on your healthy lifestyle, what would it look like?

These thirty one days have all been about my family making and surviving a lifestyle change. We've changed our eating habits, started exercising more, we've gotten a bit off track but jumped right back on. You've been walking with me through this and I hope it's inspired you or made you feel that you aren't alone. We all have our ups and downs when we make a change like this.

Truth is, we made it through 3 cycles of the 17 Day diet. We decided that we've learned new habits we want to continue. However, we both decided that cutting out carbs completely, is not for us. We will continue to choose healthy proteins, fruits, and veggies but also choose healthy whole grains to compliment  some of our meals.

We will choose to have desserts and treats but, they don't happen every night. Once in a while is our new rule.

My jeans are getting looser and I can see some definition in my muscles again! I'm making it a point to get up and move more! I make excuses to get up from my desk at work more often. As the weather turns cold, our walking path at work will probably get used less and less. It doesn't mean we can't choose to walk inside or, climb the stairs a couple of times instead.

Our son made a comment that made me realize this plan has benefited him too. His class typically passes out birthday treats at lunchtime he says. Evidently, there had been a couple of birthdays in one week in addition to some festivities surrounding right to read week. I was cleaning out his lunch box after dinner one night and noticed he hadn't eaten the cookie I packed. When I questioned him about it, he said "Mom, I had too many sweets today and didn't think I should eat my cookie. It just didn't even sound good!" I tried to play it cool but inside I was turning cartwheels! When does a kid say "I've had too many sweets"? Ummmm, usually NEVER!

I honestly think he gets it and he is learning right along beside us. He sees us make mistakes but he also sees us get right back on track.

Here's to a new week and a fresh start!

As the season of fall continues we're all into cheering on our favorite collegiate and professional football teams.  Some weekends are just perfect for a fun tail gate style get together. Typically, tail gate parties are filled with salty snacks and lots of beer.

If you're like me, I'm not so much into beer and salt can send my blood pressure up. So, I have learned to exercise moderation.  You can still tail gate and snack healthfully! Just a few substitutions and you'll be good to go!

Substitute Plain Greek yogurt for sour cream in your dips, make fresh veggies (celery, peppers, cucumbers, broccoli, carrots etc...) readily available.  Hummus can be a yummy way to dress up your spread as well!
If you choose to serve burgers, try ground chicken or turkey instead of ground sirloin. Saute mushrooms and onions for a burger topper with low fat Swiss.
Tail gates aren't complete without dessert right?  Fresh fruit and yogurt dip are always good or try making brownies but, instead of using the wet ingredients the box calls for, use one can of pumpkin puree. You'll end up with a dense moist brownie that's a bit healthier for you than the latter.

About the beverages that go along with tailgating... Sodas are full of sugar and empty calories. A great alternative are the flavored seltzer waters (think Dasani and La Croix). These are not sweet and just have a hint of flavor. Personally, I've learned to enjoy them when I want the bubbles.  Alcohol, I'm not much into it but if you like an occasional cocktail, try a light version. Just know that Alcohol is dehydrating so be sure to drink extra water to stay hydrated.

If you're a guest, and you're surrounded by the usual fare, try to eat a small meal before hand. That way, you're less likely to fill up on things that will make you feel icky later. Graze on the veggie tray and by all means, allow yourself a treat if you must. Life is way too short not to have a buckeye right?  If you happen to overdo, don't beat yourself up! Brush yourself off and immediately get back on track. Don't NOT eat dinner if you're hungry. Just choose a healthy salad with lots of vegetables and lean protein. Drink lots of water to flush your system.  Remember, tomorrow is a new day!

Yes, that taco dip looks delish but try to eat less of it and more of the veggie tray!

photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21526999@N07/5429110898">IMG_2573.JPG</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/">(license)</a>

When you hear the word metamorphosis, what is the first thing that comes to mind? A caterpillar spinning itsself into a cocoon and ultimately emerging as a beautiful butterfly right?

What if we looked at our healthy lifestyle journey as a metamorphosis? There are plenty of similarities. You change the way you think about food and start making better choices, you begin to move your body more instead of being stationary bump on a log, you begin to eliminate the things from your life that are weighing you down, and you slowly start to see things change.
First, you start to feel better. You have more energy to do more things! You notice your clothes feeling a little looser than they were. You might be sore but it's a good kind of sore because you see muscles that were non-exsistent starting to show.

We must remember, metamorphosis doesn't happen over night. Just like the butterfly, each stage takes time. As much as we want to wake up with thinner thighs and a tighter midsection, we have to come to grips with the fact that there is no easy way around it.
I just read that it typically takes 2 months to lose 18 pounds. Yes, it's possible to lose 50 pounds in 2 months but, it usually isn't very safe. The saying slow and steady wins the race is very accurate. Because, if you lose at a steady rate (a bit slower) you're more likely to keep it off!

Drinking lots of water and eating healthy proteins and vegetables and fruits are the best way to begin your weight loss journey.

Eventually, we will emerge healthy, trim and fit!

photo credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/104269801@N02/20976505208">Monarch (Danaus plexippus) Chrysalis</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com">photopin</a> <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/">(license)</a>