Family Time -- Does Anyone Know What That Is Anymore?

I spent the day hanging out with my 8 year old niece.  We played several board games and put together some puzzles.  I started reflecting on my childhood and the way my family spent their time.  Life seemed slower then.  And I didn't know all that I was missing out on growing up in a small town to parents who didn't have extra money for extra activities.  I had never been to a movie or a museum until we moved to Indiana when I was 7.  I didn't own a video game system until I was almost in high school (1994) and then it was an Atari from a garage sale.  I don't tell you these things because I am upset, I wish more kids today would grow up the way I did.  Kids today are inundated with technology and lack proper social skills because of it.  My parents spent time riding bikes with us and teaching us card games.  While doing those activities, conversations would naturally open about all of life's questions, like "Where did Grandma go when she died?", and "What do you think I should be when I grow up?".  I think we should reinstate game night.  Pull out all those games you loved as a kid, shut off the TV and the Wii, and have fun together.  Laugh, trash talk, win, loose.  Do it all.  Reconnect with your kids and your spouse.  Invite another family to join you.  You never know you just might have fun and want to try again sometime:) 

Beware the Silver Tongue

I was reading my Bible this morning and came across a verse in Romans that made me want to send a loud message to all my single friends -- and really all my married friends too.  Romans 16:18b, "By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people."  I have learned why the phrase "love is blind" started, because love really is blind.  We overlook the biggest of offenses when we are in love, sometimes to our detriment.  I send out a warning to us all: Beware the Silver Tongue!  If someone is full of flattery, they are not really complimenting you, but often they are out for what they can get from you.  I have watched many friends follow after a man who was a sweet-talker but was a villain in disguise.  Watch for the warning signs of controlling behavior.  Are they always checking up on you, what you are doing, where you are?  Are they asking you to break plans with friends and family to spend time with them all the time?  Are they asking for loans with promises of paying you back?  Be especially aware of someone who is acting like this and is married or you are married.  The Bible talks a lot about flattery and deception especially as it pertains to the adulteress.  But this advice covers a deceitful charming man too.  Also as a wife, watch out for other women who may be trying to flatter your husband.  Proverbs 5:3-6, "For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword.  Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave.  She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths are crooked, but she knows it not."  Regardless of your place in life, as Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life."  We have to be discerning and wise in our dealings with others.  Not everyone has our best interest in mind.  Don't be blinded by love, but love with wisdom.  You are not going to be able to change someone after you marry them.  I have heard it said that we should marry someone whose faults you can live with.  You can't love away an abusive, controlling, lying nature.  Only God can change a heart.

Farewell Breastfeeding Group

Well yesterday was the last Tuesday daytime breastfeeding group for St. Francis South.  It was such a bittersweet moment.  We ladies are excited to take up the torch and go help other new moms, but it was so sad to say goodbye to the great staff and some moms and babies we may not see again.  I know my daughter will really miss all the playtime with the other toddlers (and all the snacks). 
But what I really want to pass on to all of you is the importance of having contact with other people outside of your home especially when you are a new mom.  I know you are going to be exhausted, but having an outlet to express feelings and thoughts is so healthy.  That is why I am going to miss the group so much.  I have come to need that interaction on a weekly basis.  If you don't have a group or a friend that you can see on a regular basis, do a little research.  Look for a group at church or check out some mom social media sites.  One great program is M.O.P.S (Mothers Of Pre-Schoolers).  Look for playgroups or start your own.  Please don't isolate yourself.  Get involved.  And please add any ideas to the comment section.  Thanks

Post Partum Depression

This week at breastfeeding support group, we talked about Post Partum Depression.  I learned that Post Partum Depression is not exclusive to sad or depressed mood, but also to anxiety.  I listened as mothers told of terrifying anxiety they had experienced like having vivid images of the walls falling in on them or dropping their children down a flight of stairs.  I was shocked but also comforted because I too had been having these intrusive images pop up in my head.  I knew that the thoughts were probably related to anxiety but I am so frightened by the images and it was comforting to know that I am not abnormal and that I am not alone in my fears.  The counselor told us that if the thoughts keep us from enjoying time with our children or from doing our daily tasks, then we need to seek help.  Some other women said that they experienced greater anxiety and depression after weening their child.  The lactation consultant stated that often breastfeeding can help to ease the experience of Post Partum Depression, so it makes sense that weening can cause such a disruption. 
Here are some typical symptoms of Post Partum Depression/Anxiety:
worry/racing thoughts
anxiety/panic attacks
feeling overwhelmed
sad/hopeless
avoidant/withdrawn
difficulty sleeping or sleeping all the time
weight gain or loss
discomfort around the baby
irritability
difficulty interacting with baby
feeling of being on an emotional roller coaster
loss of interest or pleasure
fatigue
guilt/shame
possible suicidal thoughts

Now each of us new moms experience some or all of these symptoms at some point.  But if you are unable to function on a daily basis or if you cannot tell the difference between your rational and irrational thoughts, then please get some help.  Check with your local hospital.  Many of them offer support groups and counseling.  Also check out the Post-Partum Support International website for more information. 

Remember, you are not alone and you are not to blame for these feelings and with help you can get better!  Be well.

Infant Loss Support

I recently read an article in the Indy's Child magazine and I wanted to pass the information along.  Being a mom of very young children, I experience anxiety related to anything harmful happening to my child.  This is the closest I have come to experiencing the loss of a child.   My heart goes out to all the moms who have experienced this loss of a child of any age including in miscarriage.   Kari Bundy started Mason's Cause after experiencing the loss of her son Mason, at just 4 months old from SIDS.  Kari wanted to create a place for parents that contained all information related to the loss of an infant, like ideas for funeral arrangements and milk production.  The Web site, www.masonscause.org is divided into a "Surviving Tragedy" section for the immediate need of families and a "Hope and Healing" section that provides resources for healing.  They also can provide some financial assistance for families who cannot afford funeral costs.  This cause is so important.  I hope you will support this ministry and pass the info on to families who may need it.  The Web site also provides information for friends and family of the grieving family, on how best to support them. 
And Lord, I pray for all those families who have experienced the devastating loss of a child.  Lord you understand more than anyone the pain that they feel.  Comfort and keep them.  Amen.

Wonder

You know what I love about having kids?  I love that for them everything is new.  Everything is their first time.  I love watching my daughter notice the moon for the first time and how excited she still gets seeing it at night.  There is such wonder on her face.  We who are old have lost that wonder.  We look up and just see the moon.  Where did the excitement go?  Kids are great at helping us stop and wonder again.

Traditions

What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions?  One I started in my family is that my kids and I make an ornament every year.  I can't say that our time is always organized or that the ornaments are all that beautiful, but it is nice to reminisce each time we take the ornaments out.  We think about how much the kids have grown and how much better they have gotten at being creative and better at art in general.  One of my favorite childhood Christmas traditions was trying to put the verses of Twas the Night Before Christmas in order.  My grandma would type up the verses and then cut them out line by line and pass each line out to a different person.  Then as a family we would try to read the lines in order.  My uncle Lon started a tradition of bringing a new board game to our family Christmas each year.  I learned a lot about competition and using strategy during those games.  I also learned about my family:).  Traditions are so fun.  Tell me about some of yours.

How Much Is Too Much?

As Christmas quickly approaches, we start panicing about all the last minute gifts we still have to buy, and then the guilt of all the spending creeps up.  As a mom on a seriously restricted budget, I really struggle with the gift giving.  I want to give my kids great gifts to see them smile on Christmas and show them how much I love them.  But even as I type this, I realize that that is really not the point of Christmas.  Most kids, including my own, get so many gifts for Christmas that they forget the first 10 gifts as those get lost under the wrapping of the next 10.  I had a coworker that had a good idea about the amount of Christmas gifts -- 3!  His reasoning was that Jesus only got 3 so we don't need anymore than he had.  He also made specific criteria for each gift.  One had to be educational, and one had to be practical, and one could be something desired.  He even asked the grandparents to join him in this and asked them to only get his children 3 gifts too.  I have to say that I really like this idea.  It can maybe help us focus more on the real reason for Christmas, celebrating the birth of our Savior, and spending time with people we love.  I think the gifts sometimes take away from the festivities.  I remember one year, I was so mad at my aunt because she got me a doll that was a boy.  I threw a big fit and cried.  I didn't even deserve a gift.  That was my 4th family event where I had received gifts.  I don't remember any of the rest of the gifts I received that year, or frankly for most of my Christmas'.  The real memories are of times where my family invited the single ladies who had no family to share Christmas dinner with us.  Or the year that my cousins, whose mother had just passed away, spent Christmas with us and I had the flu.  I hope we can all scale back on the material gifts and focus on The Gift.  Merry Christmas!

Rewards for Shopping

My buddy Christa told me about a great program at Baby's R Us that helps you get free diapers.  I wanted to pass the news onto you.  You can sign up online at rewardsrus.toysrus.com under their rewards program.  One of the benefits is: buy 9 large boxes of diapers and get your 10th free.  They also give you coupons for diapers and let you use manufacturer coupons in conjunction with the store coupons.  There are other benefits but this one won me over.  Happy Saving.

The Working Mom

My best friend starts back to work tomorrow after a 4 month maternity leave.  I think she is such a brave person.  Since I have yet to experience this life transition, I cannot begin to understand the emotion and anxiety.  I would love to hear from you working moms about how you managed this big life change.  Please add a comment and give us all some advice and encouragement.  Tell us how you manage the housework, time with the hubby, and time with the kids.  Inquiring minds want to know.

The Downward Spiral

This morning I woke so tired, but after my weekend of self-indulgence I knew I had to get up and get motivated.  My motto was "one good choice leads to another".  I notice that one bad choice leads to a rapid downward spiral.  My son wakes me up 3 times during the night so I wake up tired.  Then I eat carb-rich foods to get energy to stay awake.  Then I crash and need more sugar, so I reach for some M&M's.  Then I feel bloated so I take GasX to feel better.  Then I stay up late because I need some downtime and I get a snack.  By the time I go to bed my pants are tight and I feel like an old lady.  Not today.  I write to inspire all of you but also to motivate myself.  "Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." Psalms 30:5b.  Each morning His mercies are new and so you should give yourself some mercy.  It is a chance to begin again.  Whatever habit you want to break or change, just get started.  And as the saying goes, if you fail, get right back on that horse.  It takes 28 days to break a habit, 6-8 weeks to make a new habit to replace the old, and only one day to screw it all up.  But keep some reminders around that will help you stay motivated.  Mark days off on the calendar.  Have a date to celebrate your success.  Have an accountability partner.  Ask a friend to join you in your habit changing.  You can do it!!  And if you have a bad day, start over tomorrow!

Style Tips

I am the last person you want to ask for fashion and style advice.  Since having kids, the style part of my brain is damaged:)  I have been trying to take the time to get dressed in anything other than sweatpants and wear makeup.  After I started trying a little harder to look more like a female again, I heard a radio program on Moody Radio, Midday Connection.  They had a special speaker on named Jill Swanson.  She is a fashion consultant and has written a book with fashion advice, "Simply Beautiful".  She focuses on how to bring your inner beauty out and how to highlight your best features.  You can check out her website jillswanson.com for more info.  I also checked her out on You Tube.  She has a video on how to wear scarves.  She has some really cute ideas.  Some of the advice she gave was to wear rounder shapes if you have a more curvy figure and the opposite if you are less curvy.  For example, wear rounded necklines and no stripes if you are curvy.  Stripes and v-necks are great for those with pencil shapes.  The same goes for your jewelry, round shapes for us curvy gals and more geometric shapes for thinner folks.  Also if you have long, more dainty legs, wear dainty shoes.  If you have thick legs, wear thicker soles and chunkier shoes.  It looks more uniform.  I have been following her advice and I really think I look more presentable.  I also just feel more feminine.  You can sign up for a free newsletter on Jill's website.  Happy fashion ladies.

Healthy Tasty Cookies

Since Thanksgiving is over and Christmas is fast approaching, many of us are already thinking about ways to avoid gaining weight over the holidays without depriving ourselves.  Well here is a great cookie recipe that uses those Thanksgiving cranberries.  I will give you the original recipe found on the Kellogg's All-Bran cereal box and my even healthier version.


All-Bran Cranberry-Chocolate Chip Cookies


Prep Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1hr and 10 minutes
Servings: 42 cookies


Ingredients:
  2 1/2 cups      all-purpose flour
  1 teaspoon     baking soda
1/4 teaspoon    salt
     3/4 cup       butter or margarine, softened
     3/4 cup       granulated sugar
     3/4 cup       firmly packed brown sugar
              2        eggs
 1 teaspoon      vanilla
      1/4 cup      hot water
      1/2 cup      All-Bran cereal
         1 cup      Dried cranberries
 8 oz (1cup)     semi-sweet chocolate morsels
      1/2 cup      chopped walnuts


Now the healthier version


Ingredients:
  1 1/2 cups      all-purpose flour
         1 cup       whole wheat flour
  1 teaspoon     baking soda
1/4 teaspoon    salt
     3/4 cup       butter or margarine, softened
     1/2 cup       granulated sugar
     1/4 cup       Splenda
     3/4 cup       firmly packed brown sugar
              3        egg whites
 1 teaspoon      vanilla
      1/4 cup      hot water
      1/2 cup      All-Bran cereal
         1 cup      Dried cranberries
      3/4 cup     semi-sweet chocolate morsels
      1/2 cup      chopped walnuts


Directions:
1. In medium bowl, stir together flour, soda, and salt.  Set aside.
2. In large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed with electric mixer until light and fluffy.  Add eggs and vanilla.  Beat well.  Mix in hot water.  Add flour mixture and All-Bran cereal.  Beat until combined.  Add cranberries, chocolate morsels, and walnuts.  Mix until combined.
3. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto cookie sheets coated with cooking spray.  Bake at 375 degrees F for 13-15 minutes or until golden brown.  Remove from baking sheets.  Cool completely on wire racks.  Store in airtight container.


**** Play around with other variations like using some flax seed or sugar free applesauce in place of part of the butter.  Try some Splenda brown sugar to replace the brown sugar.  Make them as healthy as you want.  These cookies are becoming some of my favorites. 


Happy Holidays

It Takes All Kinds

This weekend my two youngest and I stayed with a childhood friend of mine for the Thanksgiving holiday.  It was interesting to watch her parenting style and overall mothering/spouse personality.  My friend is a very laid back yet very loving mother.  Her children learn early how to fend for themselves since there are 4 of them.  The youngest, who is only 1 1/2, can already climb up into her bar stool chair to eat her meal.  I was amazed to watch how the kids helped each other like little miniature parents-in-training.  My friend sows her children's clothes and gives them farm fresh milk and eggs from the neighboring farms.  But her parenting style is different from mine which I consider laid back.  I realized that I am a laid-back-planner mom.  My best friend is an organized-delegating mom.  She likes to do lots of research on parenting strategies and keeps to a somewhat rigid sleep schedule for her kids.  There are many styles but none is better or worse than the other.  The staples of love and support are necessities, making sure they have clothing, shelter, and food.  But the rest is up to your interpretation.  I like to get some advice from "experts" but there really is no owner's manual that comes with our children.  Whether laid back or organized, love them real good.

Thank You for Giving to the Lord

On Sunday my church honored me with a special presentation for being a Sunday School teacher.  They played the song "Thank You" made popular by Ray Boltz.  As I sat and listened to the song I was humbled and reminded that I have been given a huge responsibility that I need to take more seriously.  I started teaching Sunday School when I was still in high school because I loved kids and loved the Word of God.  I never really thought about what a responsibility it is.  I have been given a charge to keep, the charge of leading young hearts to Jesus.  While I thought about how much more time I needed to spend praying for my students and preparing my lessons, I also thought about all the people who helped to lead me to Christ.  I first have to thank my parents.  It is their influence that weighs heaviest.  I remember even as a small child waking up to find my father sitting at the kitchen table reading his Bible.  I have always enjoyed my dad and I's spiritual talks on our many road trips.  My mother and I have matured in the Lord together over the years.  My mom wears her heart on her sleeve and she is so willing to hear Godly advise from others and really takes it to heart.  My parents always took us to church and we never knew that we could choose not to go.  Secondly, I have to thank the many pastors and Sunday School teachers who have taught me and challenged me over the years.  Thanks to Pastor Rick Matthews for never telling me the answer to my questions but instead making me go find the answer.  And thanks to his wife Mary for being the one to lead me in a prayer of repentance at Vacation Bible School.  Thanks to my first two Sunday School teachers, whose names I can't remember, who went to be with the Lord during the years I was in their classes.  Their sweet spirits made me feel safe and loved.  And thanks to my mother-in-law.  She was my Sunday School teacher long before I joined her family.  She has been teaching as long as I have been alive.  She has invited hearts to Jesus for 30+ years.  May God bless you all!

I want to remind us all that we have a responsibility to teach our children.  We will be held accountable for what we did and did not teach.  May we all be found faithful.

Thank you for giving to the Lord,
I am a life that was changed.
Thank you for giving to the Lord,
I am so glad you gave.

And I know up in Heaven you're not supposed to cry,
But I am almost sure there were tears in your eyes,
As Jesus took your hand and you stood before the Lord.
He said, "My child look around you, for great is your reward."

Shaken Baby Syndrome

I learned a very important bit of information when I was attending one of my child development classes in college.  Shaken Baby Syndrome is 100% preventable.  I know it sounds obvious but when you are a stressed out, sleep and sex deprived, financial strapped parent, you sometimes do not think very rationally.  If you are a new parent, I want you to know that if you are feeling overwhelmed and are afraid that you may hurt your child, take a time out.  Put your child safely in their crib and walk away for 10 minutes in another room.  Read a book or take a shower.  Your child will be safe and you can take some time to calm down.  Maybe even ask a neighbor that you trust to watch your child while you take a walk around the block.  If your child is a screamer or is colicky, then you need to have a plan for those times when you have had enough.  Have a plan in place that you tell to your spouse and others in your support system.  You are not a bad mom if you let your child cry for a few minutes while you take a timeout. 

Thankful

It is the time of year where we count our blessings.  Tonight I am thankful for my children's health.  I know that there are many parents who are spending tonight in a hospital room.  I can't imagine the pain and stress they are under.  I don't want to have survivors guilt when I look at my kids, but I am so thankful that they are healthy.  I thank God for the numerous times He has protected them from harm, times that could have been tragic but ended up just being little boo boos.  Like the time my daughter feel down the stairs head first.  Or just last week when my 7 month old put an entire leaf in his mouth while we were driving home from Mamaw's house. 
But Lord, I pray for all those mom's who tonight feel the pain of their child's sickness.  I pray that you would comfort them.  I pray that you would provide for the financial needs to pay the medical bills and to make up for hours lost at work.  I pray that you would touch their children and heal their broken bodies.  I pray that the children would be glimpses of Jesus to the medical staff.  I pray that Your presence would be felt and that Your love would be evident.  And thank you again for my children's health and help me to never take it for granted.  Amen.

Healthy Dilemmas

For me making healthy choices is a daily battle.  Even tonight I was feeling a little chubby and guilty about eating birthday cake yesterday and ice cream cake today and knowing that I am going to have birthday cake and fondue tomorrow.  I want to be healthy and thin but I just love food, especially sweets.  I have nothing against exercise in fact I enjoy walking and dancing.  I just lack motivation most days especially after several wake ups each night with the babies.  This winter weather is also a big downer.  Now I started this blog to be an encouragement to other moms and ladies, and so far this post is pretty sad.  But there is hopeJ  Here are some things that might help me and you in making healthy choices.  One thing I have been thinking about lately is that each day there are several moments of opportunity to make good choices.  For example each time I go to the fridge is an opportunity to make a good choice: apple or leftover cheesy potato soup?  Bran muffin or cupcake?  Tea sweetened with honey or coffee with cream and sugar?   These small choices can add up to big changes in weight.  According to “The Biggest Loser” just adding 2 teaspoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of half and half to your coffee each day can add 10 pounds in a year.  No wonder I have trouble losing weight.  Another tip is to do something fun that you can include you kids in.  Sing the silly kid exercise songs and do the motions like “Father Abraham” and “Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes”.  Do some dancing in the living room.  Having crawling races.  Another tip, feed yourself like you feed your kids.  Most of us make sure our kids eat lots of fruits and veggies and little sugar.  We don’t let them have soda or Kool-Aid, but we eat fast food and cookies.  We even make sure they eat all the food groups.  We deserve the same.  Another tip, from Dr. Oz, is to use agave nectar in cold drinks, honey in hot drinks, and date sugar for baking, instead of sugar.  Make small changes like changing to lite mayo, turkey bacon, and whole grain bread.  Figure out what healthy foods you really like to eat and keep plenty of those on hand.  For me they are Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, and roasted broccoli.  And give yourself a cheat day so that you don’t feel deprived.  This is a reminder to you and me that we deserve to be healthy and feel good about ourselves.  Live well.

Military Moms

With Veterans Day just ending, I have been thinking a lot about the military families.  I have heard a lot  about the major stress deployment has on the family and the rate of divorce is on the rise.  And things seem to get worse after the soldier comes home.  I really can't imagine the stress and loneliness the spouses both feel when they are separated.  The advice I have been hearing from those who have gone through it is to not isolate.  Get out and get involved.  That goes for the rest of us non-military ladies.  We need to reach out to those young moms whose husbands are gone.  They need a shoulder to cry on or simply a babysitter.  More than that they need our prayers.  Please send a note of encouragement today to a military family that you know.  And if you don't know one, think about finding one.  I know that we are all busy but wouldn't you want someone to be there for you if you were the military spouse?  And thanks to all of you who have served our country so bravely.  Your effort is not unnoticed.  May God bless our military families and protect them.  Lord guard their hearts and their marriages.  Provide for their needs.  Help us be a beacon of hope for them.  Amen.

Things I Love About Being A Mom

Little feet -- bottoms face up --  and diapered bottoms as they crawl up and down the stairs.
The excitement on their faces when Daddy gets home.
The spontaneous "I love you Mommy".
Dimpled hands.
The giggles.
The first and last hug and kiss of the day.
The way my daughter talks about the entire day's events at bedtime to stall the inevitable.
Watching my children sleep.
Letting my 2 1/2 year old help with the baking.
That first smile.
Each new learned skill.
Singing Sunday School songs.
Living room dance parties.
The first trip to the park.
The first snow experience.
When they use big words correctly, like delicious:)

There are many things I love, but this is a quick list.  What do you love?

Hormones Shmormones

Since I am breastfeeding, I haven't had my period since I found out I was pregnant last year.  But that doesn't mean I haven't had all the darn symptoms.  I have noticed that I have been having the emotional roller coaster that comes with my cycle.  If we all think about it we have one week each month where we feel like superwoman and one week where we feel like sludge.  Those sludge weeks come with a lack of motivation, increased irritability and sensitivity, and self deprecating thoughts.  If you are like me, how do we deal with these weeks?  Well here are some ideas: journal, call a girlfriend, tell your husband about how you are feeling, take a walk, sing a song, take a bath, and give yourself a break.  So what if you don't get much accomplished during one of those weeks?  You will make it up on the superwoman week.  But more than anything remember that you are a priceless person who is worthy of respect and love.  Remember to love yourself those kind of weeks.  And most importantly, God loves you. 

Let Them Be Little

I just tucked my daughter in bed for the night and almost burst into tears as I hugged her goodnight.  I started thinking about how soon she was going to be too "big" to kiss mommy goodnight.  I thank God for these moments that remind me to be thankful for each day, each memory.  I thank Him that it helps me to slow down just a little bit to savor the moment.  They grow up way too fast!  I often think of that country song "Let Them Be Little" as I watch my children grow.  Everyday they learn something new and grow a little more independent.  I have met those parents who use the phrase "I can't wait til they can ____" when referring to their kids.  A wise friend told me that these kind of parents are wishing their children's lives away.  I try to not use this phrase or rush my children to grow up.  Yeah it will be great when my son can walk so that I don't have to carry that heavy pumpkin seat and it will be nice when my kids don't need car seats.  But Lord help me to savor each moment.  Lord slow us down.

Time Wasters

Have you ever thought about the things in life that annoy you because they seem like such a waste of time?  Like shaving your legs or putting away laundry.  Or Facebook:)  I feel like so much of my life is spending time on time wasters.  Sometimes I feel so guilty about watching TV or looking on Facebook.  I think about how I could have spent that time playing with my kids or making out with my husband.  But this is not a guilt trip but more of an encouragement to have moderation.  The world isn't going to stop revolving around the sun if we spend one evening watching Biggest Loser or if we spend an hour on Facebook once a week.  However we need to make sure that no one time waster is consuming a majority of our time.  Priorities help us keep our perspective and maintain balance in our lives.  Whatever your priorities are, write them down, or at least make a mental note.  This list may be what your ideal list of priorities is.  Then think about what is truly taking up your time and see if you need to make some adjustment.  My ideal list is God, family, friends.  I know in my heart I need to make a few adjustments.  Take some advice from Apostle Paul, "Everything is permissible for me -- but not everything is beneficial.  Everything is permissible for me -- but I will not be mastered by anything."

Warning Signs

I just wanted to let you know about some warning signs that I maybe should have noticed about my son's health.  I have been exclusively breastfeeding my son and had noticed that he had not been gaining any weight for 4 weeks as I weighed him at breastfeeding support group.  I mentioned something to the lactation consultant and she seemed a little concerned but I didn't pay close attention.  Then I took him to his 6 month appointment and he had only gained a few ounces in 3 months.  Since hindsight is 20/20, I began to look back and see all the small red flags that should have told me something was wrong.  1.  No weight gain. 2  His hair wasn't growing.  3.  His teeth weren't coming in.  4.  He wasn't taking any naps.  5.  He was only having a bowel movement every 3-4 days.   Now each of these flags could be explained away individually but as a whole they were a warning sign.  Praise God my son is fine and growing like a weed now thanks to feeding him whenever he wants and supplementing with some formula and baby food.  But I wanted to tell all of you so that if you ever are concerned about your child, please talk to a professional.  It is better to find out that everything is okay then to regret it later if something is wrong.

Learning to Ask

As a wrote in my post Money Monsters, I have had a little bit of financial strain this week.  But I want to report how God answered my prayers and helped me continue to put my trust in Him.  I mentioned that I would have to decide if I was going to trust that God could take care of us, and I have to be honest that I had some moments of weakness.  That morning I had a peace about it, but as the day wore on I began to let worry creep up.  I called my dear friend Andrea to talk a little about my worry and I thankfully regained my perspective. And I am happy to report that God showed up in a big way.  He supplied to cover all the needs we had for this weekend.  Some were just handed to us unexpectedly, but others I had to ask for.  As I mentioned in my last post, it is hard to ask for help.  It can be extremely humbling.  But James tell us, "You want something but don't get it.  You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want.  You quarrel and fight.  You do not have, because you do not ask God."(James 4:2)  Sometimes we have to ask for help.  How else can others know our needs and be able to bless us?  Remember again to remain thankful and have the right motives as James warns in the next verses, "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."(James 4:3)  If the health and livelihood of your family requires you to humble yourself and ask for help, please do it.  There is not shame in admitting we have needs.  And remember, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work in us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."(Eph 3:20&21)

Give and Take

One thing I have learned since becoming a mother is that it is okay to ask for and accept help.  I am not sure why it is so hard to do for most of us.  When I was pregnant with my daughter I was put on strict bed rest and was told I could only get up to go to the bathroom.  You might think that this would be a blessing to be able to relax, but I had a hard time letting go of the control of my home.  I thought I could still do everything that I always had.  My doctor told me that if I didn't do what she asked I was in danger of having a stroke.  So I begrudgingly accepted help doing the daily things that I had done everyday of my adult life.  I still am not sure why it was so difficult to accept the help.  But since then, it has gotten easier to accept assistance, especially if it is to the benefit of my children.  I have begun to realize that we each have seasons of our lives where we are givers and some where we are takers.  In the season of motherhood I am a giver to my family but a taker of everyone else around me.  It is hard to not feel like a mooch, but I know that I will be in a different season someday where I can be a giver to those who are young mothers just like I am now.  For example, my parents and in-laws help us often by watching the children, occasionally buying us dinner, and finding good deals at garage sales for us.  They are in a position in their lives that they are financially and time-wise more stable than my husband and I are.  So they are able to give more.  But when they were my age they also received help from their parents.  And I will continue the tradition when my children are grown.  The important thing to remember is to not have a spirit of entitlement but of thanksgiving.  We are not entitled to have any help, but we could often use it.  Remember to say thank you and to pay it forward when you are able and be okay with letting others bless you.

Money Monsters

We have all experienced those sleepless nights when we are fretting about how we are going to pay that pile of bills on the desk.  We start to think of different scenarios about what we could pay part of today and a little of next week.  We think about things we might be able to sell on Craigslist.  It is at these times that the verse, "who by worrying can add a single hour to a day," comes to mind.  If God can clothe the lilies of the field and supply food for the sparrows, can't He take care of us too?  By no means should we stop working hard and being creative with earning extra finances but we really need to let God be in control.  He created us, so He knows what we need.  I woke up with a peace this morning knowing that God has provided in the past and will continue to provide.  Satan immediately attacked with an unexpected bill we received just this morning, but my test begins.  Will I trust God to be my provider?  I need to do my part and ask for His help and then be a good steward of what He has already given me.  For example, this weekend I am buying only the essentials at the grocery and eating things out of our pantry instead.  It might be fun to see what strange things I find in there.  It is also a time to make soup -- super cheap when you throw in whatever you find in your freezer:)  Lord help us all to lean on you as our provider but to be good stewards with your blessings.  Help our husbands to not carry the weight of the world on their shoulders but to place it in your capable hands.  Bless our families and provide for our needs.  Help us to know the difference between needs and desires.  Help us to count our blessings and to be thankful for all that you have already blessed us with, even if it is a meal of canned chili.  Thanks Lord.

Exercise

I know that last thing on our minds after we give birth is how am I going to work out now that I am a mom, but lets talk a little about it.  There are so many positive benefits to exercise whether you do it with your child or not.  Taking walks no matter how long with your child gives them much needed vitamin D and you some much needed stress relief.  I have found that this is one of the best exercises for me.  It is even better when you walk with a friend.  The walk also gives you an opportunity to have an activity/teaching time with your child.  I point out signs and objects all around and have my daughter tell me what they are.  We can work on colors and letters and animal sounds.  I know some moms who go to mommy and me yoga and have really enjoyed it.  Some gyms like the YMCA and Cardinal Fitness offer child care or at least a room where your child can hang out.  Workout videos can be great too because you can sneak in some workout minutes without having to get everyone packed into the car.  I know that time is limited but even a 10 minute workout can be beneficial. I find that I feel more relaxed, have a better body image, and have more energy after I exercise.  And lets admit it, who wouldn't want their body to look like it did before that bundle of joy came into your life:)  Try it -- you might like it.

Breastfeeding

First of all let me start out by saying that I am not a pushy breastfeeder.  To explain what I mean let me tell you a little story.  I attended a short class on breastfeeding (not at a hospital), thinking I would learn techniques for breastfeeding.  I was pregnant with my second child and I was not super successful with breastfeeding my first born.  I was really wanting to make it work this time and wanted some help.  When I showed up for the class, the lady informed us that she breastfed all of her children and some until they were 4 years old.  She then informed us that she has been a wet nurse for some 40+ children and that she was currently pregnant in her late 40s.  Now on the surface this may sound like this woman is a very thoughtful person to help so many babies, and she probably is.  But what bothered me is that after she told us about herself, she then began using scare tactics to try and convince everyone that they had better breastfeed, or their child would be dumb, sickly, and obese.  If I had been a young teen who was in this class, I would have been terrified that I was going to bring great harm to my child if I didn't breastfeed.  Thank goodness I have had great mentors of breastfeeding that told me the truth.  Breastfeeding is the best way to feed your child, but if it doesn't work, then your child will grow up just fine.  Your child will still get sick sometimes whether they are breastfed or not.  Obesity is a choice not a byproduct of formula.  And I don't know much about how smart breastfed babies are compared to formula fed babies, but I know plenty of smart people from both sides.  I am an advocate for breastfeeding and I would be happy to help any new mom who needed support.  In fact I attend a breastfeeding support group.  The way the ladies have made me feel is the way professionals should approach breastfeeding.  Life isn't perfect so we shouldn't expect breastfeeding to work perfect for every person.  Sometimes life circumstances screw things up making our ideal not possible.  We need to let go and know that everything will be okay and we will be great moms whether we breastfeed or not.  And we need to hear that from the professionals in the hospitals.  We need encouragement and direction, not chastisement and shaming.  We need a gentle hand and patience from our helpers and we need patience for ourselves.  I also commend those moms who have withstood horrible barriers to breastfeeding and have persevered through pain and infection. 
I feel like I am rambling on and on.  So to summarize: Breastfeeding is great, but formula works too.  Find a good support group to attend and ask for what you need from the staff at the hospital.  Do some of your own research.  But more than anything cut yourself some slack.  If it doesn't work, don't sweat it.

Negative Thinking

Thoughts are powerful.  So powerful in fact that the Bible talks a lot about our thought life.  One of my favorite verses, well actually is it half of a verse is 2 Corinthians 10:5b "we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."  Another great verse is Phillipians 4:8 "Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things."  These verses help to remind me that my thoughts can sometimes be my enemy but I can control my thoughts.  I bring up this subject because I think as wives and mothers we often beat ourselves up and let our thoughts run away with us.  We think that we are not good enough, or that we are bad moms, or that we are not sexy.  Then we let our thoughts start messing with our relationships.  We read things into what our husbands say that isn't there.  We think he is mad at us, or disappointed in us when he hasn't really said anything at all related to that.  These thoughts are not true and are so destructive.  We need to challenge these thoughts, test them.  We need to remind ourselves of the good that is in us and the good that is all around us.  We need to take these thoughts captive and make them obedient to Christ.

Grocery Solutions

Well I had a request to talk about grocery budget and meal planning.  Well I have a few thoughts but I would love to hear some from all of you so that we can all become grocery gurus.  One good idea is to plan your menu before you go to the store and only buy what is on your list.  This will help you lessen your impulse buys and stick to a budget.  When planning your menu plan for about 4-5 meals for a 7 day period.  I have found that you usually have a couple nights a week that you don't eat at home, whether you eat out or are at someone else's house.  Also plan for a leftover night atleast once a week.  Try not to buy more than you can use in a week.  This will cut down on wasting food.  Another tip is to always buy a frozen pizza just in case you have a crazy night with no time to plan or cook dinner.  Also have a night once a month where you eat only things from your pantry to help clean it out.  Now about meal planning.  I am learning that the trick is to keep it simple.  Try to find recipes that call for no more than 5 ingredients and that they are ingredients you would normally buy on a regular basis.  For example one of our favorite meals is tilapia, roasted broccoli, and rice.  I dip the fish in milk, then in a bread crumb, parm, salt and pep mixture and pan fry (10 minutes) while the broccoli, sprinkled with secret seasoning, is roasting in the oven (15 minutes).  Then I pop one of those 90 second rice bags in the microwave.  Dinner on the table in 30 minutes and it is healthy.  Those kind of meals are great.  Another idea is keep a list of your favorite meals to refer to each week so you don't have to reinvent the wheel.  I hope all this helps.  As a side note, use the websites on your weekly grocery flyers to get exclusive offers and coupons.  You can also contact the companies that make products you love and ask them for coupons.  I would still love to hear how all of you do it.  Thanks.

Living with Compassion

Ever woke up annoyed with your husband?  Well I did today.  It really wasn't anything specific but we have been trying to start a small business and I am totally stressed.  Well enough of my sob story.  I am actually writing to tell you about something that helped me release the annoyance and stress.  We sing a song at my church called "I Then Shall Live" by Gloria Gather.  The second verse goes like this

I then shall live as one who's learned compassion
I've been so loved that I'll risk loving too
I know how fear builds wall instead of bridges
I'll dare to see another's point of view
And when relationships demand commitment
Then I'll be there to care and follow through

There have been many times in my marriage where this song has helped me gain perspective.  I often lack mercy for others when I feel like they don't show me mercy.  But that is not what Christ did for me.  He showed me mercy and grace, enough of it to die in my place.  He doesn't ask me to die for my husband's wrongs, but to show him compassion.  None of us is perfect and we would do good to give each other the benefit of the doubt even when they may not deserve it.  Commitment is a choice and I'll be there to care and follow through.

Being Okay with the Mess

I can't say that I have ever been a great housekeeper, but life with little ones makes me the worst housekeeper I have ever seen.  When I worked full-time pre-kids, I was barely able to keep up with the house chores.  Then my daughter came along and it took me about 8 months to feel like I could get anything done.  Now my son is 6 months old and I do alright with cleaning but it seems like the mess grows while we are all sleeping.  It is amazing to me how much adding one tiny person to a house can make so much more mess.  When my best friend found out she was pregnant with her second, I told her she should prepare herself for her house to be in constant disarray.  She has always been better at keeping her house looking spotless than I am, but she too had to admit that sometimes you just have to let things go.  My biggest challenge isn't even the cleaning itself but the motivation to do it.  When your chores are interrupted every 10 or so minutes for a diaper change or a feeding or a boo boo, it is hard to stay focused.  The thing that seems to work for me is to set 1-3 goals of things I would like to accomplish before my husband gets home from work.  I find that this helps me keep some focus.  Now my goal is to cut down on the unnecessary distractions like the TV and Facebook:)  I would love any insights the rest of you may have on trying to keep the house in order.  But my advice for all is: it is okay to sometimes have a little mess if it helps keep mommy sane.

Morning Prayer

Good Morning Lord, it's me again.  Thank you for another day.   Thank you for my family.  Thank you for a good night's sleep.  Thank you that my kids are healthy.  I pray for those children who are sick.  I pray that you would bless them and their families.  You especially know their pain as you watched your son be beaten and hung on a cross.  Lord touch their bodies and give them strength.  Surround those families with loving friends and support.  Help me to never take my health or my family's health for granted.  Thank you for another Lord's Day to stop and remember you and your many blessings.  Amen.

Brevity

My daughter has a bit of a cold and has been waking up every hour for the past two nights, wanting a drink or chapstick or Tylenol.  And tonight my son is refusing to go to sleep.  These times can be so frustrating especially when you have lots to get done the next day and no energy to do it.  But as my son sits on my lap, pulling my hair as I try and type, I am reminded to savor even these moments.  I have had those nights where I have placed my screaming child safely in their crib and turned the TV on loud enough so that I can't hear them to save my sanity.  But those nights of torture are minimal compared to the overwhelming joy my children have brought to my life.  18 years is so brief a time compared to my already 31 years.  I know I will blink and this phase of my life will be over.  I want to cherish each moment, even the rough ones. 

Moody Radio

I want to share a little secret to some success in my life.  I listen to Moody Radio.  My parents have listened for years, but I used to think the station was so boring.  To be honest, I think the music they play is pretty boring but the other programs are great.  I get a lot of encouragement from several of the programs.  I also like the news updates.  They give you news that is informative without the liberal slant of the major news networks.  The news also includes updates on the middle east and missions in foreign lands.  My favorite programs are Family Life Today, Midday Connection, and In the Market with Janet Parchell.  Some other great programs are Revive our Hearts and Focus on the Family.  These programs give great advice on marriage, child rearing, womens issues, and even politics.  I feel better each time I listen.  The local call number is 97.9 FM and the website is moodyradio.org.  You can listen online as well.  Let me know your favorite programs. 

Tired and Weary

Last night was one of those nights that you just want to crawl into bed from sheer exhaustion.  I was just so tired, but the kids still needed to be put to bed and the husband needed my help.  It is times like this that just making sure the kids have clean diapers and have eaten seems like an accomplishment.  I then am reminded of one of my favorite passages of Scripture, Matthew 11:28-30.  Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."  And also II Corinthians 4:17, "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."  All the sleepless nights can be placed in their proper position in the light of Jesus.  He can strength us for the journey and waits with our reward for a job well done.  I want to encourage all of you to sneak in a little time to get filled up, however you do that.  Whether your filling comes from reading Scripture, reading a book, taking a bath, or going to church.  For me it is listening to a radio program on Moody Radio or going for a walk.  These help me recharge and refocus.  I know that there are days when you can't even squeeze out a minute but as my friend Nate Feathers taught me -- lean back into Jesus' waiting arms and let Him hold you for awhile.

Saving Sense

As a stay at home mom, I am constantly looking for ways to save money.  I wanted to share one of the items I have found that is a great bargain.  I have always like my hair and have spent a lot of money on different shampoos trying to keep it looking good.  After I got married I thought I could afford to buy the really good stuff and did for a while, but now reality has set in.  I still want great hair but it can't cost me much.  I decided to shop around the shampoos and conditioners.  I have always liked Pantene and John Freida, but I thought I would give Suave Professionals a try.  I used Suave sometimes as a kid and didn't like it.  But I have to say I was swayed but their commercials.  And great news -- it really does what the commercials claim.  The first day I used it, I got a compliment on my hair.  It was manageable and shiny.  So then I thought I would try the regular old Suave, and that wasn't too bad.  It didn't do as good a job as the Professionals line but it worked good enough for me.  The great thing is that the big bottle of Suave Professionals is about $3 compared to $5 for Pantene.  Regular Suave is usually under $2 per bottle.  That is seriously cheap for decent hair.  I know I sound like a commercial myself, but I just wanted to give you my opinion about a product that is saving me some coin.  If you have any products that work well and are a great price, please share them in the comments section.  I will continue to bring you other great finds.

Grandma's Kitchen Prayer

My Grandma McCue passed away my senior year of high school.  I miss her and wish often that she was around to teach me all the womenly arts, like sewing, cross stitch, quilting, cooking, etc.  She was the stereotypicial grandma right down to the glasses, round belly, and apron.  She was a fellow homemaker who made everyone feel at home.  After my Grandpa passed away ten years after her, I received a placard that hung in her kitchen.  It is simply titled,
 "My Kitchen Prayer". 
Bless my pretty kitchen Lord
And light it with Thy Love.
Help me plan and cook my meals
From Thy heavenly home above.
Bless our meals with Thy Presence
And warm them with Thy grace;
Watch over me as I do my work,
Washing pots and pans and plates.
The service I am trying to do
Is to make my family content,
So bless my eager efforts Lord
And make them heaven sent.

I don't think I could say it better.  It is all about our perspective.  If chores are a chore, then we will easily get annoyed and run down.  But if we see each chore as a way of helping and caring, we will feel the joy in the role God has given us.  Thanks Grandma.

Be a Barnabas

I am finding that as a mother, I sometimes have a critical spirit.  I never thought of my way of correction as critical until listening to a radio program on Moody Radio.  I have a 9 year old step daughter and she is very different than me in personality and many other ways.  She has lots of energy and is in constant motion, while I like to sit and read or play a board game.  She loves to put on concerts where she starts over each time she makes a mistake while I was taught that if you make a mistake while singing, just keep singing and no one will notice.  I loved school and work hard at being an overachiever and getting straight A's.  She likes to learn but doesn't enjoy having to sit still in a classroom all day and doesn't get worked up about making a mistake.  We are about as different as different can be, but neither way we approach life is wrong.  We both love life and enjoy it.   But I have begun to notice that if she doesn't do things my way, I can often be critical.  I seem to think my way is right, and sometimes get caught up in arguing my point.  But does it really matter if she sings the exact right lyrics to a song?  Or if she wears her hair in a fountain shape on the top of her head?  Or wears flip flops in winter.  She has plenty of time to learn about life and how things work.  One of her girlfriends will show her a new way to wear her hair.  And someone will play her a new song that she will love and will listen to over and over again until she sings it in her sleep.  What is most important thing is that she knows I love her.  Kids need to hear that we love them.  They need to hear we are proud of them.  That we appreciate them.  And they need lots of hugs and loving touch.  The world will beat them up enough without us joining in.  Be a Barnabas in their lives.  Encourage them.  Lord help us to see our children through your eyes, as your perfect creation.

Diapers Diapers and more Diapers

If you are looking for affordable diapers, let me tell you what I have found.  I recommend diapers.com.  They offer $10 off your first purchase and also free shipping once you reach a certain dollar amount.  They ship directly to your home.  You can also use coupons.  You simply mail them in and they apply them to your account. 

Another great place for diapers is Aldi.  The Aldis in my area only have sizes 3, 4, and 5 but they are quality diapers for the price.  They are less than $6 for approximately 36 diapers. 

Luvs diapers are very reasonably priced as well.  They will also send you coupons if you sign up on their website.  I know that Pampers and Huggies are great but even with coupons the price cannot compete with Aldi and Luvs. 

One brand I do not recommend is Walmart’s Parents Choice.  I have found that the diapers get hard once wet.  It was like my child was wearing a brick.

Hope this helps:)

Battle Buddies

I know I haven't posted much yet, but I have mentioned the word "battle" when it comes to being a mom and wife.  This is because I believe we are in a battle.  A battle to save our families from Satan's clutches; to save them from any evil that would harm our children or our marriage.  I know that Satan's desire is to destroy us.  He wants our marriages to fail.  He wants to discourage us by making us tired and self critical.  But Praise God, my God has overcome the world!!  And thank God, He has not asked us to go at it alone.  He is with us but He has also given us fellow warriors.  This week I have felt especially stressed and last night I think I figured out part of the reason why.  I am a part of a weekly breastfeeding support group and I didn't attend group this week.  My church also did not have a Wednesday night service.  I also didn't get to see my best friend until today.  (My friend Andrea and I get together at least once a week.)  I realized today how much I depend on all these groups of people to help me build up my battle armor.  Without the encouragement of others, I know that I would question even God's presence.  God has given us friends as tangible pieces of Himself.  I thank God for my friends and those who speak truth in my life.  Remember ladies, don't isolate yourself.  Ask for help.  Reach out.  I know that life is crazy busy when you have kids, but find at least one friend that you can spend time with encouraging each other in the battle.  And to my dear friend -- thank you so much for your friendship!  You are always a breath of fresh air in my life.

The Stressed Out Prayer

Dear Lord, I pray that you would be with all the moms of the world.  I pray that you would give us strength to accomplish all that we intend to do.  But Lord if that is not what you have for us today, I pray that you would give us satisfaction in changing diapers, wiping faces, and making dinner.  Lord I pray that you will help us remember that even a dish washed is a help to make our home more comfy and loving.  That every time we put away that toy for the 30th time, that we are showing our family that we love them.  Help us to feel appreciated even when the "Thank you's" are few and far between.  Help us to cherish each "I love you Mommy".  And help us to leave our stress and worry in Your capable hands.  Bless us I pray. Amen.

The Constant Struggle

I don't know about you, but our decision for me to be a stay at home mom is often a point of contention.  Not just between my husband and myself, but for perfect strangers.  When I tell people I am a stay at home mom, the first response often is a sarcastic "that must be nice".  You know what?  It is nice. But isn't all bon-bons and movies.  It's crazy hard work.  I get so upset about people's negative views of the perfectly natural and rewarding role of wife and mother.  Isn't that why God made me? To be a helpmate.  Women's lib -- phooey!  I am a strong liberated women who wants to raise respectful, well mannered children and keep a happy husband.  I don't need a career to give me self worth.  Now I want you all to understand.   I chose this path for myself and my family.  It isn't the right path for everyone.  Some moms are career moms and it works for them.  I believe that God designed me for this.  I think we need to change people's views on the value of motherhood, child rearing, and homemaking.  They are lost arts.

Why I Did It

Before I was married, I never thought about being a homemaker -- only about having a career and getting married.  I knew wanted kids but that was as far as I had thought.  Even when my husband and I decided to try to get pregnant, staying home was not on my radar.  But about 5 months into the pregnancy I began to become very protective of this yet unborn child.  God was planting a seed in my heart.  I desired to raise our child with Godly morals.  I couldn't trust some stranger at a daycare to instill the values that I believed in.  No one could take care of our child better than her own mother.  Despite my desire, my husband decided that I would have to work because I carried our health insurance.  I knew that I would have to convince him that my staying home was to our benefit.  So I started to research the pros and cons of quitting my job and becoming a stay at home mom.  I called daycare providers and found an average of costs for daycare services for infants.  I found that I would only have $50 left each week from my check after paying for insurance and child care.  I talked to my mom and mother-in-law about their availability to watch our daughter.  My mom works full time so she was out.  My mother-in-law said she could handle a couple of days a week.  I also consulted stay at home moms about how they made it work.  I asked my pastor to pray for guidance.  I collected all my information -- I even had all the math charted on paper.   I prayed hard and approached my husband with all I had.  He wasn't impressed.  He had already made up his mind.  But so had I.  I didn't bring it up again to him, but I did bring it up to God, often.  Two weeks after the birth of our daughter, while watching TV, my husband leaned over to me and simply stated "You can stay home".  That was it.  No discussion, just a change of heart, a miracle.  I can't say that that was the last time we have brought up the subject of me working outside of the home, but God has continued to provide for us.  I continue to pray that God will lead give us wisdom about our finances and what I can do to help be a good steward of those finances.  I also pray that God will continue to speak to my husband about the benefit of my current role as "Mommy".

New Beginnings

New beginnings can be difficult but often come with great rewards.  My big new beginning was the birth of my daughter 2 1/2 years ago.  I left a job that I love to be a stay at home mom.  I have learned a lot about the joy and trials of being a homemaker. My hope is to provide encouragement to other moms and offer insights I have learned on my journey.  These last years have been some of my favorites and I would have to say that this job is the hardest I have ever had, but by far it is the best.  I hope you enjoy the posts and that your life is better for it.