Simply Sundy - My Thoughts on Marriage

 Today I'm thankful that God has blessed me with a wonderful husband who loves me regardless of my many faults.  I am so undeserving.  Now, while my spiritual hearts knows this to be true too often my humanity tries to take over and gets in the way.  I start to thinking that Barrett "owes" me.  That he's the one who should be thankful because I'm so good to him.  I want him to think this way.  As little girls we grow up with this idea that we're going to meet, fall in love with and marry someone who thinks that we're just the sweetest, prettiest woman in the world and that we could do no wrong, even if we tried.
     Much I hate admit it; while I'll always think of Barrett as my Prince Charming, I am no princess.  I am not the perfect wife.  I fail him in every way.  Thankfully, he loves me anyway. It doesn't depend on how clean my house is or how delicious my meals are. Why I do want to try to keep a clean house and all that.  The bible says that God knows our heart.  We are very fortunate that God looks beyonds the actions to the heart.  If  our heart our right in trusting Him, then our actions - i.e. sins - are drenched in Jesus' blood and made as white as snow. 
        Marriage is the closet relationship that people can have this side of heaven; in fact marriage is the picture of Jesus and His church in the New Testament.  If God cared enough to place man and women in such a relationship with each other that it reflects His relationship with His people, how much does He think of it?  It really makes me stop and go; "WOW!"
        We live in a society that doesn't put much stock in marriage anymore.  It's no longer seen as a necessity.  I must admit that Barrett and I did live together for about six months before we got married; I think we both had our own reasons for doing so.  I think Barrett was unsure about marring someone with a disability, while I was more afraid that if I said "no", he'd leave me and go find someone else.  I was so immature!  He fell in love with me.  I didn't make him and he didn't choose it.  God gave us to each other.   Just as I didn't choose to follow God; He chose me to follow Him.
      Marriage is a honor;  not a curse, something I deserved or even something that I even have the right to want.  I do believe that it and motherhood are 2 of the highest callings that a woman can have.  It is truly a call to service. 

Twistable Tuesday - Fall Break

Hard to believe, but my little people are on fall break this week...  So far it's been an OK week.  Today we went to the library and then Barrett picked us up and we went to supper at Toots.  Then we went and saw Dolphin Tales; such a great inspirational, family movie.  Of, course now Bobbye Sue wants a pet fish and go to the Clear Water Aquarium in Florida and visit the real Winter the Dolphin.  We're not doing too much the rest of the week.  On Friday, Dalton's going to a church lock in and Bobbye Sue's BFF is spending the night - can't call it a sleep over, as I'm sure not much sleeping will be going on...LOL

Thankful Thursday - It's been a while!

Sometimes I feel like  I'm running around in circles. There are so many things I want to do and many time -especially during certain times of the months I'm just exhausted and it seams to take all my energy to do the basics things.  This is when I realize how thankful I am for God's pure, free and simple grace!  I don't have to have a spotless house or blog everyday  to ensure the God love me.  I don't have to be a replica of Carol Brady to prove that I'm a good wife and mother.  All I have to do is love and care  for Barrett and the kids the way God directs me top.  Do I succeed at this everyday???  NO!  However, He still loves me.  He convicts me when I do wrong and He also acknowledges and confirms me when I'm doing the best I can.  I think this is why I can lay down in a house that's not spotless and with chaos all around me and I can rest in PEACE

Created to Be His Help Meet - Ch 1: God's Gift

What does being a help meet mean?   To be a help meet to Barrett means I am to serve him and help him in his life and service to God.

"A wise woman doesn't take anything for granted.  She is thankful to be loved and seeks to make herself more lovely." ~ Debi Pearl.

Just because Barrett (was forced to, as he'd jokingly say) put a ring on my hand, doesn't mean that I'll automatic get his love (willing) for the rest of my life.  Yes, we both made promises to love and care for each other, but if I'm not giving my all to him as a wife then his love for me is going to change.  Barrett's a very loyal man, especially to  his family.  There's not doubt in my my mind that Barrett will do whatever he needs to to take care of me.  But I want him to want to care for me.  I don't want to be a burden on him.  Now, Barret and I are in a unique situation because the is a certain amount of limitations that do put a lot of stress on Barrett because there are things that I can't do and/or there may be times where I may need more help than at other times.  I'm so grateful Barret does this, but this is not God's plan.   I was created to be Barrett's wife; to fulfill a need and be a "good thing" for him.   I was created to make him complete.  It just amazes me to think that God created a man just for me and that he made be just for Barrett.  My job as Barrett's help meet is to look around and she what I can do to help my husband; to ease his burden.  I must admit; I could do a lot better at this.  I love Barrett.  Many wives say "Well, I shouldn't have to earn his love."  They're right, you don't have to earn his love, but that's not what being a good help meet is about.  I want to serve Barrett because I love him, not because I want hime to love me more`.

Could you Talk to Your Husband That Way?

OK, so one of my "guilty pleasures" is watching the TV show "Bridezillas" on WE TV.  (I know I should but...)  Anyway, it's a very humorous, but sad  thing to see  how women treat the men that they are about to dedicate the rest of their life.  I'm by no means saying that I'm the perfect wife; I've said and done  things in the heat of the moment that I'm sure have  scared Barrett to the the core.  I just can't imagine talking to some one in such a negative, aggressive way.  I totally believe that when I speak negatively to my husband it breaks his  spirit.  I can think of many (older) couples who've been married for a while that take on the traits of the other spouse - the husband starts acting like the wife and the wife starts acting like the husband.  While it is very natural to become like the people who you are around  alot  - especially  those who you live.  However, I think  more often than that after years of being treated badly; that men become meek and let the woman  take control and thus the women decide that it is their duty to step up and take charge.  I remember sitting in a Sunday School with Barrett when we first got married; we were studying Adam and Eve and I suddenly understood Genesis 3:16 as I never have before.  It says; "...Your desire will be for your husband and he will rule over you."  I think most of us think of this as we should have physically desire for our husbands.  In a way this is true - we are to physically desire our husbands, but I believe it goes so much deeper.  Because of sin I have a natural desire to be in control, even to control Barrett.  Yes he knows all about his job  but I (THINK) I know what best for our family.   

Created to be His Help Meet - Intro

One of my favorite books is Created To Be His Help Meet  by Debi Pearl.   I first read this book about 4 years ago as online book discussion.  I've read it time and time again; it's high lighted, marked in and written it.  I even lost it and ordered another one.  It's just a practical book for any wife; whether work outside the home or at home.  It's a book, that I want to pass on to Bobbye Sue one day. 

A couple of weeks ago my best friend Becki and I decided to study it  together.  We'll do about one chapter per week.  Because I learn as I write, I'm going to try and blog throughout this process. 

Daddy, Mr. Barrett & Abba God ~ Part 1 ~ An Introduction

I may be about to what may be thee biggest writing challenge ever for me.  I'm going to attempt to compose a comparison between the 3 father "figures" in my life.  Obviously, no human can compare to Abba God!  But He did give me an "earthly" father to show me in tangible and visible ways how much He loved and cared for me.  My Daddy was a carnal, sinful man and why he wasn't perfect, he probably deserved a lot more respect than I gave him.
     I'm really not sure why I'm doing a series on this except to say that I feel prompted by the Holy Spirit to do so.  I was listening to Joyce Myer's series "Beauty for Ashes" on CD today and she was talking about fathers and there importance in our lives.  It really hit me that there are issues with my daddy, my father-in-law and God that I need to  deal with.

     So, I'm off...I'm not sure how long this will take or how many blog posts it will take.    Please pray that God will be with me and that His Will will be done

      Thank you!
   

Going Through The Marriage Devotional Bible - Day 8 "Get Some Rest"

Mark 6:31

New International Version (NIV)

³¹ Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

Wow!  Jesus tells us to come and REST.  If you know me, you know I'm addicted to sleep.  School's been in session for over 2 weeks and I'm still trying to recuperate from "summer".  I slept most of Friday -most of last week actually.  I feel really guilty because the house is such mess and there's so much to do, and I know people think I'm lazy but I do "take to my bed" often - alot of times I'm sleeping I just need to lay down - stretch out.
     Well, in the midst of our chaotic "adventure" Friday night; as I tried to figure out where Bobbye Sue was bleeding from and get ready to take her to the ER  God spoke to me in a small voice, saying; "This is why I let you rest today and this week; so you'd have the energy to take care of Bobbye Sue."
      I'm not saying this gives me permission to be lazy and neglect mu responsibility; it does not.  However, it reminded me that nothing I can do to take me out of God's love & grace & that's it OK if it seams like I need a little more rest than the "normal" person.  Yes. I need to try harder on getting my stuff done; but more importantly I need to trust God that He'll give me what I need to get my stuff done.

Bobby Sue's Friday Night Jaunt to the ER.

So, it was the first "normal" Friday night of football season.   Can you tell I'm married to a sports announcer??? Barrett was gone to a game.  I had ordered pizza and was folding clothes and watch TV(and listening to the radio).  The kids were outside playing with the neighbors.  Suddenly, Dalton ran in and called "Mama!" with that voice that said, "There's something really wrong here."
      Bobbye Sue comes back to my room.  She was covered in blood from her nose to her throat.  At first, I wasn't sure where the blood was coming from.  I got her laying down on the bed and got the bleed stopped enough to see it was from her nose.  She said her (right) wrist hurt and the was I big knot on it,  and she cringed whenever I touched her.
     I told Dalton to call Granddaddy (Barrett's dad) and I hurried to get ready to go.  She was crying; Dalton kept saying, "I'm sorry, it's all my fault."
     Piece by piece, I gradually begin to comprehend what had happened.  Apparently they were "experimenting" with a new was to use the tire swing.  She was lying on top of the tire, holding the rode and Dalton was swinging her by her legs.  (This is something I can imagine my brothers and I doing years ago.)
Well, needless to say, her hand slipped and she kissed the dirt.  It's been rrumored that there was a dog leash involved too, but I chosen to close my "Mama" eyes to that little bit of information. 
     So we head off to the ER to find that Bobbye Sue did fracture her wrist.  (& yes, she is right handed and it is the start of a new school year.)   
     I must say, I'm really proud of Dalton; he stepped up and took care of his baby sister.  All went well until she asked him to hold the other hand while the doctor splinted the other and Dalton squeezed it too hard.  His reasoning; to divert the pain.

Ahhh, I gotta love my little people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Going Through The Marriage Devotional Bible - Day 7 "The Risk Of Public Allegiance"

Mark 5:21-43

Here, we are told of two people who pronounce the faith  in God. These were two people can we say, they may not have ever even be suspected to believe in God; one was a upright Jewish leader and the other was a lowly woman who had been cast aside because of a illness she had no control of. 
    Yet they both in their time  of need turned to Jesus; the knew he was their last hope..Too often our pride gets in the way of faith.  I wonder how many Jewish leaders missed out on wonderful blessing simply because they were afraid of what others may think?  How many people in current times miss out on blessing for that same reason?  How many blessings have I missed out on????
     In my marriage ~ how many time have I missed out on chance to be close to and love Barret just because I wanted to be right???  I'm married to a man who's right about 95% of the time and thinks he's right the other 5% of the time.  Being raised by a Daddy who felt the same way; along side brothers who were taught to believe this; I also believe this.  I'll fight you to the core just to prove my point.    While this was the way I was raise and was sometimes necessary for a girl growing up with a disability.  It's not a good quality for a wife to have going into a marriage.  There were times - even no - when I may go along with Barrett, but I don't do it with a humble, submissive heart.  It's my pride.   I want to be right, I want to prove that I'm a strong, independent woman who can take care of herself.  By acting this way, all I do is alienate Barrett.  He always says "I don't know who you think you're fooling, because you're not fooling me!"
I really need to work on being joyful & content in all things, no matter what the circumstances as Paul spoke of in Philippians 4:11.

Going Through The Marriage Devotional Bible - Day 6 "Who's in the Driver's Seat

Mark 4:35-40

New International Version (NIV)

Jesus Calms the Storm

 ³⁵ That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” ³⁶ Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. ³⁷ A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. ³⁸ Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”  ³⁹ He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
 ⁴⁰ He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”


Why is it so hard to?  To trust God? To trust Barrett?

I'm not a good "in charge" person; Barrett knows this, my little people know this & most people who know me know (& would agree 20 fold)  Giving a normal, calm state of mind, I don't normally wish to take charge of things.   However,  due to the fact that the state of my mind is neither calm nor normal, I can assure you I let myself get into all types of sorts of situations that require me to make decision that I usually fail at.

That being said, when I'm not  in charge I start to feel anxious.  I naturally want to have the ultimate control.   I think submission to Barrett is one of the hardest things about marriage.  I'm naturally a selfish person.  Plus, growing up I was taught to fight for what I wanted; what I need...It was a survival mechanism.    But, I've got to learn to choose my battles.  Even though Barrett's right 99.9% of the  time.

Going Through The Marriage Devotional Bible - Day 5 "The Value of a Tender Touch"

Mark 1:41-42  "Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. 'I am willing.' He said, 'Be clean!'  Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cured."

A touch can speak volumes.  I am a big fan of Gray Chapman's "5 Love Languages."  One of my primary love languages is touch; both of my kids share this love language too.   I must say that while I do like to be touched; I don't like it when people (i.e. my little people) lay and wallow all over me.
     Barrett, on the other hand  is not a real "touchy-feally" type of person.  So I've really struggled with this in our marriage.  Very early on, I saw it as a form of rejection.  However, as I've gotten to know him over the years, I've learned that it's not; it's just not his main love language.  He did not grow up in a home where love was expressed in that way.
     So, I try very hard to learn his love languages and speak them to him.  Not only is it fulfilling to me; but as time goes an I realized he's starting to speak my love languages too.

Going Through The Marriage Devotional Bible - Day 4 "Passing the Torch

Mathew 28:19 "Therefore go and make deciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."  (NIV)

This is the Great Commission.  Many people believe that in order to serve God you have to be doing church work; pastoring or teaching, or serving over seas on foreign soil or something big that makes an impact on  the community.  They are wrong.  EVERYONE IS CALLED  TO BE A MISSIONARY; WHETHER YOU'RE A DOCTOR WHO JUST GOT A NOBLE PEACE PRIZE OR A MAMA WHO'S JUST CHANGED HER 1,000TH DIAPER.

Our life is our mission field.  We have been commanded by God to go out and tell others about Him.  There's nothing special about me; but my God is awesome!!!  Barrett loves to tell about how people watch and look at us when we go anywhere as a couple or a family.  Some gawk, some laugh, some turn their heads in disgust...We are not the typical family, but we are the family called us to be.  I may never go on a mission trip to a 3rd world country.  But who knows what Dalton and Bobbye Sue may do one day because Barrett and I followed God and were obedient to Him.  He has promised to bless the offspring of the faithful.  A trip to the grocery store my not seem like a big deal to most, but as a Christian I hope that when people look at me they can see that Christ gives me strength.

Shaken To The Core

We recently got Direct TV and access to a DVR in our bedroom.  One of my new "guilty pleasure" is to record "Homekeepers" with Arthelene Rippy.  It's one of the show I've watched off and on for years.  I like it but it's one of the shows that comes on in the middle of the day and I forget about it.
     Anyway, I was watching it last night and she had a woman by the name of Anne Brooks on.  Mrs. Brooks had a daughter in the 60's 0r 70's (They didn't say for sure.  She's written a book called "If I Died, Will You still Love Me." Which I just ordered today.)  The daughter had Cerebral Palsy and she was taken away when she was 3 or so and put in state custody.  Her parents were accused of neglect and abuse.  They were only allowed to see her every now and then.  The parents were Christan and they had raised the girl in their faith, but she was told that it was a lie and that they didn't love her.  She eventually died when  she was 11; her feeding tube was inserted into her lungs instead of her stomach.  It was such a profound, profound story and it really made me stop and think how blessed.
        I was born in 1973 and my parents were told to leave me at the hospital, to go home and forget they ever had a daughter.  It seams so unreal that anyone would tell a parent that.  God certainly did bless me with the right parents.  They fought for me and were able to provide opportunities to me  that MANY disabled children didn't (& still don't) get.  My parents were a gift to me from God & I know I am  walking & talking miracle! 
      I can never say thank you enough; Of course Daddy's in heaven & he's not here for me to thank.  I did call Mama lat night.  But how do you say thank you?  That's right up there (almost) with saying thank you to Jesus for dying for my sins so I can have salvation.  There are no words; no actions; nothing I can do to express my gratitude towards them.  Which I know they don't want my thanks and they did it purely out of love to me and obedience to God, but I'm just having such a time of amazement after hearing Mrs. Brooks story and realizing how truly blessed I am.
        I took a class in college that talked about how different cultures and times in history dealt with sickness and disabilities and it was just mind boggling.    I'm just so thankful to God that I was born in the era I was, the country I was and the family I was.  That was totally ordained by God.

Going Through The Marriage Devotional Bible - Day 3 "Hope in the Darkest Hour"

The story of Christ's crucifixion is the ultimate horror story.  You read of this carpenter who promises to save His people from sin and eternal salvation and suddenly He's dead.  As a an avid reader I read some books where the ending's caught me so off guard, I've gone around in a daze for days.  But as Priscilla Shirrer said at a Women of Joy Conference I went to several years ago; "I don't know if you've read the rest of the story, but in the end we win!"
     Life is hard; marriage is hard.  There are days when I don't like Barrett; I love him, but I don't like him.   But I know that we made a commitment to each other and God and if we can just hang on through the rough times,  we'll see the resurrection.

Going Through The Marriage Devotional Bible - Day 2

Mathew 26:41 "Watch and pray so that you won't fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."

I've never realized how powerful this verse is until right now!!!  I believe it's so important to pray.  Prayer is our most vibrant communication we have with God.  I am to pray for my husband and with him; I am to pray for my kids and with them.  I'm to pray always; without ceasing...

My body is very week.  I wake up every morning thinking: "Today's the day that I become "Susie Homemaker": My house is going to be immaculate, I'll have a delicious, healthy meal on the table promptly at 6, everyone will have clean clothes in the correct drawers, thee kids won't fight and we'll all sing "The Good, Good Daddy's Home" in perfect harmony."

WELL...at the end of the day I realize, once again, that didn't happen.

When I'm not really trying to do my best; watching and praying I will fail.  There are days - & periods of my day - when I truly need to stop and rest.  But, truth be know I can probally push myself a lot hard than I do.

Go Away you Green Eyed Jelous Monster

I'm feeling very jealous tonight.  Two of my sisters-in-law have had babies in the past 4 months and my other sister-in-law is expecting her 4th child in March.  While I am happy for them I'm also envious.  God bless me with two wonderful children after 2 difficult pregnancies.  With Bobbye Sue I went into labor at 27 weeks and I spent 2 months in the hospital.  She was born perfect (as Dalton had been; which was another story.)  It was with a heavy heart that I decided to have my tubes tied when Bobbye Sue was 6 months old.  After much  prayer and discussion with Barrett, we decided we couldn't risk having another baby - the doctors said that I probably would  never carry another baby to term.  I know in my hearts of hearts that I'd have a hard time dealing if I lost a baby due to my inability to carry it.  I feel so bad for any women that losses a child - but know that I had a great chance of losing one - I just couldn't  do it.  I worry that people think that I'm selfish because I did choose to take procedures so I wouldn't have more kids.  I grew up in a family of 7 kids and in a church that really looks down up birth control and having lots of babies.  I can remember when we joined the church when I was 7 - there were four of us kids then - mama said that they had one of the smallest  family  and people wanted to know when they were going to expand their family.  LOL!  So I truly had to pray about this because I do believe that children are gifts from God and true blessings.  God has promised me that I will have other children in my life.  Also, I think I want another kid, but then I start thinking my kids are 12 & 8, do I truly want to start with a little bitty baby.  I don't think so.

Just a little girl time...

I suppose it's because I was raised with all brothers, but I rally cherish my time with my "girl friends".  Don't get me wrong, Barrett is my best friend & I treasure my time with him, but I also need time to connect with other Christan women.  Yesterday I had the opportunity to have lunch with my best friend from college.  She is a busy mama of 3 so we don't  to see each other often.  She works close to my house and now the kids have started back to school,  we're going to try to get together for lunch once a week.  She's a very strong Christan and we just have a very unique friendship.  So excited.

Going Through The Marriage Devotional Bible - Day 1

About 5 years ago my friend Jeanne & her husband Mike, gave Barrett and I a gift certificate ate a local Christan bookstore for Christmas.  We got a marriage devotional bible.  As part of "my new year", I'm going to start Reading and blogging on this every day.

Mathew 22:36-39 "Teacher, what is the greatest commandment in the Law?
      Jesus replied; "Love the Lord your God with  all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.  This is the first and greatest commandment and the 2nd is like it.  Love your neighbor as yourself."

    When I can truly love others, especially Barrett, the way that I love myself it's amazing but it's so HARD.  I find it easier to love my kids; yes I get discouraged with them at time but in the end I know it's my job to step up and be the "bigger" person.  It's my job as  their mother to make them feel better - not really feel better,  but to more or less make peace. When it comes to Barrett, however, I want him to be the "peace maker".  I have that if he truly loves me, he'll prove it to me by making amends.  Why there  have been times in our marriage he's hurt me; the majority of the time it's been how I perceived the issue that causes the problem.  Instead of loving him like I want to be loved, I want - no expect him to treat and love me the way "I" think "I"should be love.  That's a false love and a lie anyway.  I should not; can not be the judge on how to love or be loved.  This is reserved for God alone.   I can't read Barrett's heart & mind.  I am to love him regardless of if he's showing love to me at that time or not.  I think something interesting in marriage is that we all have our on aspects of love.  I really like Gary Chapman's concept of the 5 Love Languages.  Not only does is give me insight into who Barrett and his way of thinking, but it also show me who I am and how I can adapt better to him.

Thankful Thursday - Getting back to NORMAL

Today I'm just thankful that our life is getting back to normal and getting my house in order and writing more.  Tomorrow my BFF and I are going to lunch.  She works close to my house & I'm going to ask if she wants to come have lunch with me once a week and maybe do a short bible study.  I do feel lonely and isolated at times with Barrett gone to work & my little people gone to school.  It's easy for me to fall into depression and my self therapy is to sleep all day.   I've got to use my time better and focus on doing God's will and not mine.

The Homekeeper's Journal - It's Back

The Homekeeper’s Journal ~ August 9

.

In my kitchen this week ………. I've been trying to stick to menu, it's not really working, but at least I do have a better idea of what I have on hand; so I have an pretty idea what I'm serving & and not rummaging around the house at 5:00 trying to answer the "What's for supper" question.

Around the house ……. School's started back so we're trying to get back into the swing of things.  I've redone my schedule...Now I just have to actually to FOLLOW IT!

The family ….. Dalton started Middle School this week...So far it's gone fine.  Bobbye Sue started 3rd grade.  Barrett has his 1st Saturday Morning  Coaches.  This is he's last free Friday night for  months - until the Christmas break.  So I really need to make it a special family night.
New projects …… Nothing really "new" just trying to get everyone back  on track with school and trying to regain some order.

Ideas …… Fall  is like my "New Year" as I said in an earlier post, so I have like all these ideas on getting more organized and creating a new start an order to our life.

On my mind this week …… A couple at our church lost their 30 year old son in a tragic car wreck.  He leaves behind 2 kids.  The funeral was today and it was so sad.  It's just one of those time in life when something just slaps you in the face and really makes you stop and think how fragile and precious life is.

Simply Sundy - My 2nd New Year Begins

As most Mamas, I have 2 celebration of New Year's.  The first comes on January 1st - as it does for everyone.

The 2nd comes at the start of August, know as "Back To School" time.  For a mom this 2nd New Year is more prevalent than the first , because it means new schedules and routines.  This year is a bit different because Dalton starts middle school and will be riding the bus.  Today I worked my 'new' schedule.  We did a lot of work on  the this summer, and I really need to focus my attention on keeping the house clean and being more on top of things.

No TV IN BEDROOMS MEANS NO TV IN BEDROOMS

PERIOD.   This can go down as another proof that my kids will claim to their therapist that I'm a  "bad mama" for  years to come.  So,  Dalton had a TV in his room until he was about 4.  It's now that I'm against TV; I'm not.   And I might as well say this and get it out of the way.  I did have a TV in my room the whole time I was growing up.  Nanny and Papa got it for me when I was 3 and had my heal - cord surgery and had to be in a body cast for 6 weeks.  (BTW - if my kids were sick or something I'd readjust my opinion.)  However this is not the case.  We have 2 TVs, a family computer and an IPAD.  My kids are not technology deprived.  I do want to know what  they're viewing...
       Anyway.   when we redid Dalton's room a few weeks ago, he and Grandaddy started saying that they were going to get a TV for his room.  I think - hope - they're just trying to aggravate me.  Well  the kids went to Grandma's this week.  They called from Good Will yesterday (on Mom's phone - Dalton doesn't have his own cell phone either) and said he found a portable TV for $5.00 - he actually had my step-dad call first.   So, #1, he tried to get something he knew  he couldn't have & #2 he tried to appeal to his grandparents  thanking if it was a "GIFT" we'd allow him to keep it.
        Do I look like I just fell off the turnip truck???    My kids don't realize how much LIKE me they truly are!!!  I've done these tricks & if I haven't; chances are Stacia are one of the boys have.  It took me  30 + years to figure out why I had so many brothers; to prepare me to raise 1 son

Reflections on summer 2011

My little people left for Springfield today to visit my mom for a couple of days.  One last summer shindig for them before school starts back.  This summer has flown by.  It's been a great one.  Dalton just turn 12.  I can't believe it.  How did they grow up so fast!  He'll start middle school and she'll start 3rd grade.  For his birthday, we converted Barrett's office and the play room into a bigger bedroom.  We also took up the carpet in Bobbye Sue's room and our room.  We put down linoleum floor.  I must say I love our room the best!!!  We rearranged the furniture and it looks like a room out of a Bed and Breakfast somewhere.  I love our house.  Someone said "For all the money you've put in to your house, you've could have bought a new one.  True, but most of the changes we've done have been to make the house more accessible for me.  In order to get a totally accessible house, you pretty much have to design it yourself.  I know we are blessed that we are able to change and adapt our house as my physical need change.   It allows me to care for my family in an easier manner and to be the best wife and mama to them that I can be.

Thoughtful Thursday - I Want to Be a Prayer Warrior - part 1

Well, today's THOUGHTFUL THURSDAY.  We've had VBS all this week and it was fantastic!!!  Last night we had a guest speaker; a woman who lived in Honduras for a year and worked at the children's home there.  Such an amazing testimony!!!   I was asking if there were many disabled childrem in Honderuas.  She said that while there are some kids with some mental disablities, but at this time, the children's home isn't equipped at this time to care for children with phsically disablities - but that there are  praying to  be able to soon.  She asked me to prayer for this need.

This got me thinking.  I really want to go back what I believe is on of my calling...to be a prayer warrior!!!

All my life, I've wanted to do is to server God and make Him.  Yes ~ I know ~ that I, in myself, cannot make God happy.  But I do believe that when we are obedident and follow God's will for our life ~ that we can and do please God.

Sometimes ~ too many time actuallly - I think of my Ceberal Palsey as a hinderance; that it keeps me  from serving God.  But truth; it only hinders me from servving Him the way I think I'm suppose.  But I have to realize that many of th ways I think I'm suppose to serve isn't what he intended me to do.

VBS - Searching for Jesus in Honderus

This week is Vacation Bible School.  We are looking for Jesus in Honderus.  One of the teanagers and her mom went on a mission trip there last Thanksgiving.   She helping me teach (well, she teaching and I'm her"helper") the mission class.  Tonight, she showed pictures of her  trip.  We are collecting Crocks to send to Honderus.  We're using the poem "Footprints in the Sand as a "theme".  So tomorrow night we are tracing our "foot prints" on poster boards and sign them.  We'll  send these to   Honderus too.  I'm really learning how very blessed I am.   On  Wedenesd day we have another guess speaker ~ a woman who lived in Honderus for a year.  They live closed to the dump and have planted a huge garden that can feed 1000 + people per  month...GOOD STUFF!!!

Bobby Sue's Bedroom Prayer.

Lord, I'm so thankful that this is the room we were able to bring Bobbye Sue home too almost nine years ago.  This room has surrounded and nurtured her.   I pray that it may continue to be a place of comfort; where she can live grow  and dream.  May it also be a refuge when the storms of life hit and seam to crash in upon her.  May her room supply her a place to be creative - Help her to grow up and to be- Your word said that You knitted her together in my womb.  Lord please help me to respect her privacy.  But help her to understand that when I do invade her privacy, it is for her best interest.  Please help me to remember that she is a gift from You  and help me to always love and care for her as You love and care for me.  In Your Holy Name I pray...Amen

Dalton's Bedroom Prayer

Dear God, This has been Dalton's room for many years, and I hope it will be for many to come.  Lord, help this room to be a sanctuary for him to live and grow in.  Please do not let anything ungodly or sinful enter into this room.  Protect and guard Dalton from all temptations.  If and when he is tempted, pleas give him wisdom and strength to do the right thing.  Please help me to respect his privacy, but help him to also understand that because I do love and care for him so much, there may be times when I need to invade on his privacy.  Please help me to always remember that he is an individual; uniquely created in God's image.  I know he is a gift from you to me.  Please help me to care for and raise him according to your standards.   In Your Holy Name I pray...Amen

The Sun (Family) Room Prayer

Father God, Please join whenever we are in this room.  May it be a place for comfort, relaxation and growth.  Help us to always leave our trouble at the door.  May  the TV ~ like the computer(s) ~ not become an idol.  May we only watch good shows on it.   

The Study Room/ Computer Room Prayer

Father God, Please watch of the kids as the kids  study in here  Please Lord, open their minds and hearts for learning.  This rooms also holds the family computer.  May it not become an idol.  May it only offer good things.  Teach us wisdom in using it and may we only use it as tool to glorify you...Amen

Dining Room Prayer

God, the center of this room is the table.  I pray we all gather around it for years to come.  May we always remember to give thanks for the food on this table and please bless the conversation that surronds it.  May the food we eat upon it always nourish our body as you O God nourish our soul...Amen

My Lil' Country Star

Check out Bobbye Sue singing "Coat of Many Colors" at Grandma's!!

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.singsnap.com%2Fsnap%2Fwatchandlisten%2Fplay%2Fb9ad8a4fa&h=b0258

I've been PUBLISHED

In a online magizine.  Go to Ruby for Women

Twistable Tuesday - Life at Grandma's

Summer rolls on...This week is a bit out of the norm for us.  Dalton had 4-H camp and Barrett had to chance to go with him for a couple of days.  So, Bobbye Sue and I snuck off stay with my Mama for the week.  She lives about an hour from us.  We get to see them ever couple of months and the kids go stay with her in the summer.  It's been about 6 years since I've spent a whole week with Mama - she can and stayed a week after I had my hip replacement.
Anyway, it's good to see her, my step dad & most of my brothers.  I got to meet my 2nd niece, Presley - she's a month old.  I'm meeting a cyber friend face-to-face tomorrow & hopefully will get to hook up with another friend too.

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A CHRISTAIN HOMEKEEPER

It's a Privilege and an honor
     to serve my God
As a wife and a mama.
Many people don't think of a this as a noble calling anymore.
     But they are wrong.
My husband and my kids are gifts from above;
     I am to love them and care for them the best I can.
Though I may not be the typical woman
    I know that God will give me all I need to love and care for them.

Thankful Thursday - My kids

Hey all!  I feel so behind in my writing.  But this is my kids' time.  It's already mid June - times flies when you're going CRAZY!!! 
No, my kids ar truly a blessing from God and I truly don't want to miss the precious time that God has given me with them.  I wish I could say I see each day; each moment as a gift.  But I can't.   They're are allowed to sleep as long as they want - mainly because when they're asleep they're not fighting.

 |wonder if God ever wishes that we would just be queit and go to sleep so He can have some peace.  I mean, I love my kids, but there are times when just the thought of taking care of my kids just compleaty EXHAUSTS me.  But I know that God will give my the ablity to parent the and I must admit that I'm very thankful that God is 10,000X the parent I will ever be and that He extends more love, patience and grace to me than I could ever imagine to give to my kids.

Had A Great Vacation

Haven't blogged in a while. I don't get to write as much in the summer. We spent the last week on vacation in the Smokies. We went The Wilderness At the Smokies"; a water park resort. So much fun. We went to the Acqurim and to the Ripley's Muuseme - not worth the trip! Had a blast at Dollywood! Then wee stayed nights in a cabin. It was relaxing. No it's time to get serious again. LOL

Home Making Journal - What's up

In my kitchen this week ……. Same ole same ole.

Doing this and that …. Cleaning, finishing up school & getting ready for vacation.

We’re getting geared up for summer by ...Dalton'ss graduated today.


My summer plans include...We going to the Smokie's June 6-1o, Dalton has 3 camps. My sister and nephew are gradurating this weekend. We have VBS the last week of June. bobby Sue and I all going to visit my mom for a week and I hope to meet up with an online friend.

The weather here has been …… A little cold and stormy.

Rambling Mondays - Dalton's graduating

Somehow, over night it seams, my little boy grew up. Wasn't it only yesterday that I was sitting on the porch waiting for the school bus on his first day of developmental kindergarten. Tomorrow, he will graduate from 5th grade and he will start middle school in the fall. He really is a good kid. He gave mee life just as I did him. He made me a mother. You know, it's funny. My kids have taught me so much about God and love. I know God love us so much more than I can even phathom. It's just mind boggling to think of the true miracle that it is to be a mama.

Simple Sunday & a Trip to a Pet Resor

It has been a Simple Sunday. We had aa greeat day at church. We ar in the process of going through the book of Jude; learning about how everyone's salvation is the same and different. Then we came home and just hung out. We leave 2 weeks from tomorrow for our summer vacation. in the Smokies. I'm very excited but there's a LOT to do. We are going to kennel our Westie (Maggie Sue) this time. Big Fat Cat can fend for himself! So, I'd call about this one place and we went to check it out. We took the kids. BIG MITAKE!!! We get there and to the place. So, Barrett and I are looking for the basic feed & board deal. The lady starts talking about the different packages they have; spa treatments, boot camp, TVs tuned to Disney in their cages; thee whole 9 yards. So Bobbye Sue hears all this and she's so excited. It broke her heart to learn that we weren't doing any special. We're leaving on a Monday and we'll be back on Friday - I think the dog will survive. It is a nice kennel. Needless to say, I will have to call tomorrow and make arangements where little ears can't hear and influence thee choice of the package I choose.

Silly Saturday ~ learning the Ipad

So, somehow I managed to tear up my laptop that Barrett gave me for Christmas - the charging cord broke off in it. I felt so bad - I'm just not a gentle person. Anyway, I'm trying the IPAD. Barrett met someone the other day that had a cased keyboard to go along with the IPAD. This was cheaper than the laptop, since we had an IPAD. My main concern weas charging the ipad itself. So when we went to Best Buy, we explainedd the issue and he showed us an IPAD dock. I'm so exscited! No more fumbling around with tink plug and my clumsby crip]ple hands trying to plugg it up. I can't tell you how many phoned and other electronics I've runied simply because I am too rough on things. I think is funnies that many things that are meant to make our lives easier, really aren that easy. O well, a-kum-a-ma-ta-ta! I think this will work. No, I don't NEED it, but I do like being able to down in the sunroon, watch TV & still be on the computer. I guess I'm just a morden day nerd.

HOME KEEPER'S JOURNAL: Home & Garden

Homekeeper's Journal ~ May 17th

(Click on the image to go to the hosting site.)

This week’s Journal is all about Home and Garden!

This week in my kitchen ……….We really need to get back to eating healthy - back to the basics; 6 0z protein, 6 oz veggies & 1 starch - no veggies at breakfast.

My gardening thoughts this week ……. Granddaddy and the kids keep the garden.  I'm dreaming of peppers, onions and squash!


My plans for my home this summer  …….. I really want to deep clean the kids' bedroom.  But basically just keep the house clean!

This absolutely positively has to be done to my home this year ...We really would love to pull up the carpets in the bedrooms & put down new flooring.

One of my Favorite Book

 This is a book that a dear gave me years ago when little people were 5 and 2 I think.  It's a small book - only 144 pages but's is a great resource  It's bible verses that goes along with topics such as nightmares, health, obedience, spiritual growth.  It one of those book filled with notes,  highlights and dog eared paged.  It also specific prayer lists for Barrett,  Dalton  and Bobbye Sue, plus  my "ABC Prayer List".  I keep this book by my bed.

My Journey to God

When I was born, I was a month early; I was breached and strangled by the umbilical cord.  The doctors told my parents that if I lived; I’d probably be mentally retard, deaf and blind.  They were told to more or less to leave me at the hospital and forget they had a daughter.    Fortunately, for me, God gave me a set of awesome parents who loved me and who refused to give up on me.

        When I was 2, I was diagnosed with Cerebrally Palsy.  My parents got me all the resources I needed.  When it came time for me to start school, they wanted the best for me there too.  They chose to send me to a Catholic school.  My parents weren’t currently going to church when I was born.  When I was 7 the family joined the church.

        I was brought up with 5 brothers.  I really wasn’t treated differently because of my CP, but because I was the only girl.  I had as many, if not more, opportunities as the boys had. 

      I guess  I was about 12 or so when  I began to understand that I would always be disabled; up until them I honestly thought I would “outgrow”  my CP.  I didn’t want to want to be disabled.  I loved God, but really could not understand why He’d made me disabled and how he could possible a person who was as broken as I was.    I suffered from depression and some emotional problems.  When I was 18, I spent 3 weeks in a psychiatric hospital.    While I was there, our priest came and visit me and he let me know that it was OK to question God and even be angry    now and then.    I also had the opportunity to attend  a weekend retreat called SEARCH.  Through SEARCH, I learned that God wanted a personal relationship with me, just as I am: CP and all.    I didn’t have good enough to earn God’s love, you can’t earn God’s love it’s a gift freely given – we just have to accept it. 

        I started Middle Tennessee University in the fall of 1993.  My major was Social Work.  I really wanted to help people; however I also had a bigger dream.  I wanted to be a wife and mother.  I didn’t know if I could even have kids, nor did I know if some guy could love me with the CP  I really began to pray that I would meet my “soul mate”.

       In May of 1997, I took a 3 week philosophy class.  I met this guy there and I just knew he was “the one”.  He however, had different plans; he just wanted to ne “friends”.  So for a year, we were just that; friends.  I used to pray and cry myself to sleep and night, just hoping he’d fall in love with me.  He eventually did, and we were married on Nov. 7, 1998.  Looking back, I really do thank God for that year.  It gave us time to grow and get to know each other better.  Marriage is a big responsibility; especially when there are issues involved that are outside of the norm. 

        I become pregnant on our honeymoon.  I was just about to turn 25 and we didn’t know if I could even have children.  God blessed us with 2; Dalton was born on July 13, 1999 and Bobbye sue was born on September 5, 2002.   I am a stay-at-home-mom.    When I was 6 months pregnant with Bobbye Sues, I was put in the hospital because of preterm labor.  I was in the hospital for 2 months before she was born.  She was perfectly healthy.

         I love being a wife and mother.  It’s a challenge at times.  We get weird looks whenever we go out as a family.  As the kids get older, it is  obvious to the and their friends that we are not the typical family and as they grow we may have more challenges to face because of my CP,  but we know that we will continue to trust God and that even when the way seam rough, He will be our guide.

Frame of Mind Friday - Crossing into the Twilight Zone

DO-DO-DO-DO-DO!!!  We, like many other folks have discover the wonder of of NETFLIXS.  One of Dalton's new favorite shows  is "The Twilight Zone"  I personally LOVE this show!!!  The something very intriguing
 about watching a show that's a little off with a bit of spookiness & doesn't really  have any rhyme or reason.  I suppose it's because half the time I myself feel like I  have entered into the twilight zone.  I just sometimes feel like I'm just watching things happen; things that I have no control over.  This has been a busy  week and as the school winds down, our schedules seams to be picking up.  I'm excited about our upcoming summer plans, I'm also aware that they will  come their own trails and stresses.  I really want to enjoy this summer; Barrett & my little people.  Sometimes when we get busy, we tend to ignore(or more like) put our spiritual life on the  back burner.  However when we do this, even when it's intentionality, it can leave an portlet for Satan to come in and try to gain control in our life. We   have to be very villi-gent in these times to stay straight and focused on God

SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE: Week 1 ~ Day 3

HOME SYSTEM #1 ~MAXIMIZING MEALTIME
     This is something I really need to work on!!!  
- Ways I can improve mealtime at the Barretts.
        ~Plan out (& keep to) 2 week menus
        ~Always have a clean kitchen before I start
        ~Always have a set time for supper (We're actually pretty good                                          
          about keeping this one.)
        ~Clean off table
        ~Put food and stuff away
        ~Rinse off dishes and start dishwasher
        ~Wipe down counters, appliances and table
- HOW CAN THIS HELP ME?
        ~This will save me time and allow me to cook better meals for my family.
         ~ I will be less stresses
-WHAT ROLES DO I PLAY IN THIS SEASON OF MY LIFE?
          ~Wife
          ~Mama
          ~Daughter
          ~Daughter-in-law
          ~Encourager 
          ~Friend
          ~Writer
- VERSES FROM PROVERB 31:
           (11) "Her husband had full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value."  I am to do my chores and task in a way that Barrett has no worries about the home front.  I need to work harder to please him; to anticipate his needs and to make sure his "must have" needs are met.
           (28)  "Her children arise and call her blessed."  I don't strive to be a good mama just in order to gain compliments - although selfishly I must admit that there are days where I really want (need) the kids, Barrett and sometime even others to tell me I'm doing a good job as a mama.  But it the end, if they grow up to be good, godly, productive members of society.

31 Days to Clean: Day 2: Created to Give Life

      God created me, as I woman, to give life.  Well, what does that that.  Obviously, the first thing was to actually give birth to my children; I fed them and took care of them.  But giving "life" to means so much more.  It means encougarigng them, listening to them, helping them with their homework, even discipling them.  With husband it means giving him a clean,comfortable refuge to come home to after a long day, having a good supper on the table and NOT bombarding him with petty stuff.


Mary's Challenging:What can I do to renew life to my home?

• Keep it clean
• Make sure kid's do chores
• Stay on top of laundry
• Have all kids' problems resolved by the time the good, good Daddy gets home
• Plan out and stick to menus
• LEARN TO KEEP MY MOUTH SHUT
• Give Barrett a chance to relax when he get home
• Prayer over my home as I go about my day

Martha's Challenge ~  Today, we were suppose to clean out the fridge.  I did this Tuesday.  We're having company this afternoon, so I actually need to do a quick tidy of the main parts of the house

Stumbling Blocks

I wrote this a couple of years ago and now it going to be published in the June issue of the online magazine rubyforwomen.com.  I AM SO EXCITED!

When I first learned to walk it was not like other kids do, I more or less just stumbled about wherever I went. (Not much has changed in 30+ years). As I grew, I graduated from a walker, to crutches and eventually to walking on my own, yet I actually just became a better stumbler. My favorite aid to assist me in the process was my father. My Daddy, in his prime, stood six feet seven inches tall! He was known among my friends as “The Giant!” Daddy was a very strong guy and this really showed when he was walking with me. I can’t remember every falling; somehow he always managed to catch me and keep me steady. Although Daddy couldn’t physical keep me from stumbling, he did everything he could to keep me from falling. When I did fall, Daddy did everything he could to comfort me and encouraged me to get back up and try again. I have another father who does the exact same thing! This is God. He is so big and strong. He holds me in His arms at all times. Even though He doesn’t always remove all the stumbling blocks from my life, He does guide me down the paths and He is there to pick me up when I fall. It has been a long time since I have gotten to stumble beside my daddy. I grew up as little girls do and my paths did not always cross with his. I suppose the last time I got to stumble with him was down the church aisle at my wedding when he handed me over to the man that I will stumble my life away with. After I had my 2 precious babies, I had a hip replacement, which has helped my stumbling a lot. My Daddy is no longer here on this earth to stumble about with me. And even though when I reach heaven, I won’t be stumbling anymore, I know that both my Fathers will be waiting to walk me down those streets of gold

SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE - Day 2

What are my desired goals?  To get my house in order, To regain my time, and to create a peaceful atmosphere in our home.
What are the next steps?  Establish a routine. 
What is my motivation to change? I want to be a better wife and mother.
What are some things I want to organized and simplify in my life?  ~I want to have a clean, workable kitchen.
         ~I want to learn to give or throw away.
         ~I want to create an easy to clean system
         ~I want to keep onto top of laundry;get it folded and put away. 
         ~Go to bed early
What are some of the good things that will happen if I make these changes?
         ~Feel better
         ~Have a clean, healthy home - especially kitchen
         ~Always have clean clothes and know where they are.
What is one of the Proverbs 31 woman's life purpose in 30b?
       "But the woman who fears the Lord is to be praised."  
        ~Loves and obeys God wholeheartedly.

31 Days to Clean: Day 1 ~ Why I clean

  Thank so much to my friend Ella who helped me get a copy of Sarah Mae's book; 31 Days to Clean: Having a Martha House the Mary Way.


Day 1 - Why I Clean


Mary's Challenge - What are the reasons I want to make my home a haven?  Create a mission statement.  
             ~ I want my home to be a safe, calm and relaxing where Barret and my Little People can come after they been out in the world.  I want everyone who comes into our world to first and foremost feel the presence of God here.  I want my home to be reasonably clean and comfortable.


The Mission Statement:
     ~ I vow to do my best - with God's help - to create a nice, peaceful home for Barret and my little people;  to keep the house clean, health food on the table, the laundry done up and calm, peaceful attitude.

A to Z Blog Challenge - H is for the Holy Spirit

 is for the Holy Spirit.  According to dictionary.com, The Holy Spirit is a noun: (in Christianity) "The third person of the Trinity; God as spiritually active in the world."  After Jesus rose from the dead and it was time for Him to ascend to sit at the right hand of the Farther, Jesus told his disciples that he would send them a 'comforter'.  John 14:25-26 says; "All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."  This is the same Holy Spirit the descended upon Jesus on the day of His baptisim.  


      Oh God, Please let The Holy spirit guide my kids.  In Your Holy Name, I pray...Amen

SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE: Week 1 ~ Day 1

What's my story?  I've never been been a clean and organized person.  I want to be and truly envy those that are.  I feel like I'm never "good enough".  I want to do more than my body will allow.  I want so desperately to be the wife and the mama that Barrett and the little people deserve.


What are the verses Proverbs 31 that speak to me the most and why?  v. 12 "She brings him good and not harm all the days of my life." ~ I'm not to cause my husband extra stress!  This can be extremely hard because there are parts of my life that I can't control and he does have to take on so much responsibility of my family.  I do need to a better job of planning and being  organized so that he can feel less stressed.
~v.15 "She gets up while it still dark" ~  I really need to work on making myself get up and doing stuff even when I don't feel like it.


What are some of the things I struggle with in term of organizing?
~ I don't use my time wisely = not getting everything done = frustration = being  constantly exhausted.

SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE

Many of my blogger friends are doing a "Homemakers Channelge:" with the book 31 DAYS TO CLEAN  by Sarah Mae.  Well, since I don't have this particular book, I do MANY, MANY cleaning and organizing.  (I said I get them-I didn't say I actually read and use them.  LOL!!!) So, I've chosen to dig out my copy of Marcia Ramsland's Simplify Your Life.  It is a  7 week study to getting  organized. I'm going to attempt it.

Mama's Christmas Angels

Hey all.  I've not lost my mind.  I wrote a story to enter in a magazine.  It's is a Christmas story.  Please read it and tell me what you think:

http://mamaschristmasangels.blogspot.com/2011/04/novella.html

Thanks!!!!

Fried pickles Fit

OK, Just need to talk this out, please.  Tonight, I took the kids and granddaddy (who sat in the truck)   to Captain D's.  Dalton had wanted fried pickles.  Well, in the process of ordering, there was a miscommunication between the lady who took our order, him and I: She told him it would cost extra and  showed him what he could get as sides,  He said OK, assuming he would get the pickles.  Well somehow the pickles didn't get ordered.  Well, instead of nicely if he could order them, he got ugly and started throwing a fit, and said he wasn't;t does it and wanted to go out to the truck.  It was quite a scene.  Then Bobbye Sue got involved .  She went and told them that we wanted an order of pickle.  I politely told the lady "No thank you."  and explained to Bobbye Sue that she couldn't override me like that.  She turned on her big puppy dog eyes and said;  "Mama, I was just trying to be a good sister.: :cry:  I told her I knew that, but she need to let me be the mama.  Anyway, all the way home Dalton continued to fuss.  This of course upset DFIL.  I feel he think I'm a bad mother.  But I have to do what I think is best for them and giving in to them doesn't work.  They have to respect me.  I know Dalton  is growing up  and trying to figure  out who he is.  We had a(nother) long talk when we got home.  He said I don't love him.  I told him I did and that I pray, and cry and fret over him more than anything.  I told him my job is to raise him, not to bend to his every whim.  I told him that he may not really see how much I really love him until he's an adult and has kids.  I really think our talk planted a seed and In fact he called me from Granddaddy's before bed to say was really sorry and he loved me.    He's such a good kid and I know growing up is hard...All I can do is pray to the greatesr father of all.   I felt peaceful today, I usually feel like such I bad mama, but I just have this great sense of peace today that holding my ground  was the right thing to do

What's Good about Good Friday?

Have you ever contemplated on why the Friday before Easter is referred to as "Good Friday"?  For people who aren't Christians, Good  Friday is nothing more than a "holiday" off work; they may even get irritated because local and our federal bossinesses may be  closed.  Christians may or may not have much of a different view.  They know that it's the day that represent the day of Christ's crucifixion.  To think of the day that some dying as  a "good" seam absurd and unnatural to us.  Even if their death is a blessing, such as the end of a long bout of suffering, it it always a sad day when someone we love and care about dies and departs from our presence.   How sad it is to think that our savior; our Lord had to suffer and die such a tragic death.  It seams like this day should be called "Bad Friday".  However, it's the unseen deed that took place on Calvary's Mountain that made that day "good".  It was the shedding of Jesus' innocent blood that would be used to cover all of my sins and grant me my ticket to live for eternity in heaven.  It's not that I'm glad that He suffered and died; in fact, it sickens me.  However, I am so thankful that He did.  This is why I  think this day is called "Good" Friday.

A to Z Blog Challenge: G is for Gratitude

 is for GRATITUDE.    According to dictionary.com the definition of gratitude is "the quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful:" This may be on of the qualities that I want my kids to have most.  I think we live in a  society where  we no longer stop to appreciate what we have.   1 Thessalonian 5:18 tells us to  "Give thanks in everything, for this is God's will ^(W) for you in Christ Jesus."  I know it's extremely  hard at times to look and see the good in  a certain situation.  Thus, it's very hard when you're in those awkward preteen ages,   to see that we are to be thankful ~ even the trails and stresses.  Many of the things that seem to be "devastating" and "life-ending", turn out to be blessings in disguise.  The older we get, the easier is to understand the concept of being thankful for everything in all situation.  However, for up and coming individuals they don't have many experiences  to look back and see those "unanswered prayers". Romans 8:28 (Holman Christian Standard Bible) tells us  "We know that all things work together ^[a] for the good ^[b] of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose."  


    O Father God, thank you God for my  children.  Please give them a heart of gratitude towards EVERYTHING! - even those things the we may see as trails or  just plan wrong 

.  Help them to take everything that you give them in  stride; and help them look for the lessons in everything they go through.  in Your Holy name, I pray.  Amen.