Friday Fitness & Funny!

Thoughtful Thursday: Weight of the World

I clean when I feel stressed.  I figure it's at least productive.  I'm usually listening to music...which equals one of my favorite games, the dissecting and musing over said music...Keeps me listening and thinking...And an old song by The Hollies came on the radio...

So on we go His welfare is of my concern 

No burden is he to bear We'll get there 

For I know He would not encumber me 

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

If I'm laden at all
I'm laden with sadness
That everyone's heart
Isn't filled with the gladness
Of love for one another

It's a long, long road
From which there is no return
While we're on the way to there
Why not share And the load
Doesn't weigh me down at all
He ain't heavy, he's my brother

I'm feeling this way about people lately...so disappointed.  Laden with sadness because people's hearts aren't filled with gladness and love for one another.  Mine included.  Been struck upside the head with a load of selfishness and pride.  Perhaps it's always more disappointing when we see it among Christians.  We should BEAR WITH ONE ANOTHER because of all that Christ has done for us!!...instead, it seems no one cares...at least not for longer than a few weeks....then they grow weary of it all.  We should be saying, "He's not heavy, he's my brother!  His welfare is of my concern."  I think the reason we stink at this so badly is because of our selfishness.  If we focused our eyes on Christ and saw Him as our source of power and strength...where the ability to bear up and support people comes from...than we would be renewed.  And, we'd do the right thing.

Sorry to be a downer but every post can't be sunshine and rainbows. 

On a happy note...my kitchen is now very clean...cupboards too!

Yellow Iris Hodgpodge

 

 

1. When is your next big deadline? What's it for?

Being a Domestic Engineer, most of my deadlines are self imposed...and I am my own worst boss.  I feel a sort of deadline with the school year ending and the summer starting.  I have things I'd like to get done without the kids...and prep for things to do with the kids!  May always feels crazee to me.
2. May is National Barbecue Month. Do you prefer cooking indoors or out? What's the best thing about a barbecue? What's the last thing you cooked on an outdoor grill?
I love cooking outside...less mess usually.  My husband would say that my grilled Salmon recipe is the best but I'm not a big fan of fish...so, I'd say my favorite is a nice, juicy steak with grilled zucchini and a crisp side salad.  I feel so much healthier this time of year...need to move somewhere where cooking outside year round is more possible!
3. What is one thing on your "never again" list?
I think that Loverbrains and I have agreed that we are NEVER AGAIN attempting the "get up at midnight and drive into the day" method of travel.  It ruins the first few days of vacation and is just downright scary to drive that tired.  Call me old or whatever but NEVER AGAIN.
4. What's something that annoys you about people your own age? Something you love about your generation?
This complete idolization and preoccupation with sports annoys the snot out of me.  That might be every generation but it seems like we can't have a conversation about anything else in life with people our age...especially the men.  Where do they find that kind of time?  My husband couldn't if he wanted to...he works long hours and then spends time with his kids before crashing into his pillow.  Sorry...will end rant now.  Something I love...that they're finally getting old enough to start taking life seriously.  Almost everyone has settled down...finally.
5. Lilac, iris, hyacinth, pansy...your favorite purple flower?
Lilacs...it bums me out that you can't cut them and bring them indoors.  Trust me...they wilt almost immediately.  I love their smell!  I have fond memories of playing under huge lilacs growing up in Upstate NY. 
6. Whats a song that always calms you down?
Jazz... with no words.  My husband teases me...but it really does calm everyone down.
7. What's the last thing you donated?
Clothing...to Goodwill.
8. Insert your own random thought here.
I split my irises between my neighbors and myself.  They do not garden (understatement of the century) and theirs are blooming gloriously.  Mine...one little bud.  That is all.  I hope they are just late.  Strange.  It figures.

Monday Musings: Sin Mortified...

 

 Here's another article for you to muse over with me...

The Practice of Mortification by Sinclair Ferguson...and link.

My musings...

1.  I am so convicted that I must go to Scripture first.  I am so guilty of reading devotions and pastor authors before or in lieu of Scripture.  Oh, how very wrong I've been.

2.  The Colossians were where I often am...the "already" of grace and discovering the painful "not yet" of ongoing sanctification.

3.  Without a firm grasp of the gospel I can be tempted to quick fixes that look like deeper holiness but are false teaching.

4.  I will have NO SUCCESS unless I go back to the point of action from which I can gain energy for the strenuous effort of dealing with sin.

5.  I must KNOW, REST IN, THINK THROUGH, and ACT UPON my new identity in Christ!

6.  ALL sin must be dealt with...ripped up by the roots.  Mortifying sin is WHOLE LIFE change.

7.  I must rip the mask from self deceit...which I'm super good at...and admit my sin for what it really is...not call it by pet names.

8.  New men live new lives.  Anything less is a contradiction of who I am in Christ.

9.  Sin...refuse it, starve it, reject it, and abort it!

10.  I can't mortify sin without the pain of the kill!!

Fitness Friday!

 

 

Chill Pill Bible Reading

 

I decided to make an odd attempt at flexibility.  I am not following a bible reading schedule this year.  Gasp...yeah, I know...it staggers the mind.  Seriously though, I realized that due to my work with certain ministries and my rather intense Type A personality, Bible reading was becoming a duty...something to be checked off...something I could get behind in...and something that I was failing.  Until I'd give up all together.  I'd read only to complete the work I needed to get done each week.  Work...no joy.

Now, let's not get crazy...I'm still me.  I still love organization and fun paper sorting ideas.  I like to make lists and record what I'm doing.  I am that person that writes it down so they can cross it off.  Hee hee.  So, I found a simple Bible Reading Chart that just has a slot for a start and end date....with the books listed out with little circles for the chapters.  It's cute and modern art-ish.

And, it's working.  I'm reading and delighting...to each day say...what would I like to read today.  The whole book of John?  Ok!  It's been liberating...and given me new joy in God's Word.  I find I read more and flip from book to book via my nifty margins, something fierce.

I suppose life and the process of progressive sancitification will mean that I always need to be conscious of what is duty and needs to be turned to delight.  I'll always need to be checking that my heart is right and my eyes are fixed on the eternal.  Always...until someday...when I'll be there with the WORD.

I think I'll probably read the Bible in order again next...I see the benefits of placing things together that you get when reading front to back.  Hmmm...there's an idea...reading back to front.  The possibilities are endless...and there's no wrong...as long as I'm reading and applying it.  As my Grandma said recently,"if you're not going to apply it to your life...you might as well just read poetry."  

So, here's my permission to take a chill pill and read your Bible.  Really.  It's okay.

Hodgepodge Ridiculum

 

1. Have you ever had to wear a uniform? If yes, tell us more. Did you love it or hate it?
The summer of my sophomore year of college I had to wear a uniform while working for McDonald's.  The uniform ALWAYS smelled of grease...even when freshly laundered.  The black shoes were the WORST...big, clunky, sticky black...and I slid around all over the greasy floors in them.  I got more adept at it with practice.  The hat was not fun either.  On a sidenote...I think medical scrubs are cute and look super comfy.  Am I the only one?
2. April 22nd is Earth Day. What is one thing you do personally to be a good steward of planet Earth?
I don't litter.  I reuse plastic bags A LOT.  We are teaching our kids about walking in parks...hiking out what you hike in...

3. Brown rice, quinoa, or couscous...your healthy grain of choice? How often are one of the three on your menu at home?  Given a choice between white rice, brown rice, wild rice, and fried rice which would you go for?
Quinoa is a fan favorite around here.  I usually serve it with fish...which I try to put on the menu once a week.  I recently made a spinach salad with quinoa, pecans, dried cranberries and citrus vinegrette.  Yum.

4. In your opinion, who has the best job ever?
Whoever names Crayola crayons has a pretty neat job.

5. What's a situation in your life currently requiring patience? 
Raising children...redemptive discipline isn't for the faint of heart.  Sometimes I don't know whether I'm coming or going.  The dictionary defines it as the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset.  Yup.  Pretty much right on it.  I need to do better.  *sigh*

6.  Do you live your life around days of the week? Explain.
Currently, and for the last several years, my life has been planned around Mondays and Tuesdays.  I hadn't realized it until recently...as I step away from that thing...and anticipate life without it.  I'm sure there will be new focuses...but it is interesting to ponder.  I'm hoping I'm not the only one.

7. In a nod to the A to Z challenge happening around town this month, what 'R word' best describes your April?
Ridiculum....the pretty new flowers I bought for my big pot out front.  Life has been Ridiculously busy and hectic...and the name of this flower and it's beauty just tickled me...and reminded me that my Creator God is in control...and even provides me with humor when I least expect it.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
Per the advice of my green thumbed neighbor I planted my garden this week.  He says that I am not realizing Indiana has a earlier growing season and that's why my tomatoes never ripen.  Since my thumb has proven to be rather brown and he always takes pity on me and shares the bounty of his glorious garden...I figured I'd listen to him.  So, I planted big boys and early girls (tomatoes) and four different kinds of peppers that my son says are 'his'...I also have a lone cherry tomato plant, cilantro, chives and lavender.  Oh, and rhubarb, of course!! 

Tune Tuesday: Fear is Easy, Love is Hard...

Turn on the T.V. for the evening news
They got plenty to fear and nothing to do
Another somebody who's gone too far
Makes you want to put up your guard
Fear is easy, love is hard

So we draw up another dividing line
We label each other and we choose a side
Peace could come at quite a cost
So we won't build a bridge across
Fear is easy, but love is hard

Fear will leave you hiding in the dark
But love will bring a light into your heart
So do not be afraid, do not be afraid

I'm sorry baby is what he should've said
But she wouldn't listen even if he did
They'll die without forgiveness soon
But no one wants to make a move
When fear is easy and love is hard

Fear will leave you hiding in the dark
But love will bring a light into your heart
So do not be afraid, do not be afraid

It's hard to bring your heart to a world that can break it
To offer love to those you're afraid will forsake it
But a well-defended heart is always looking for a fight
In a lonely war against an endless night
But love can bring a light

Fear will leave you hiding in the dark
But love will bring a light into your heart
So do not be afraid

It comes down to a simple choice
Shouting devils or a still small voice
One is spreading fear and dread
Oh but love has always said
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid
Do not be afraid  

~Jason Gray

"God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."  So we say with confidence,   The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.  What can mere mortals do to me?"  Hebrews 13:5b-6

“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more.  But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.  Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.  Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."  Luke 12:4-7

Monday Musings: Worry

 

 It's getting to be that crazy end of the year time around here.  As I shut the door on a well loved ministry I've encountered loads of angst and yuck.  So, I've been musing over a pamphlet by Jay Adams called What Do You Do When You Worry All the Time?  It's been very helpful...I highly advice getting your hot little fingers on a copy if you can...HERE is a link.

And here are my highlighted musings...

1.  Worry is concern about something that I can do nothing about and that I cannot even be sure about.

2.  The worrier, ME...cannot control the future; and does not even know what it will look like.

3.  Whenever I try to take hold of tomorrow, I try to steal what belongs to God.

4.  I must learn to plan by submitting my plan to the LORD for revision (or scrapping), and joyously accepting the scratched-over page that HE may hand back to me.

5.  Every emotion that God has put in me is right...in its right place.
Per my Aunt Beverly's request I will attempt to flesh out this point a bit...
All my energies and efforts need to be poured into today.  It's the key that unlocks the door on worry and opens the door to peace:  I am to focus my concern on today.  Concern is right, not wrong.  Every emotion that God has put in me is right...in its right place.  This means only when they are used properly...according to God's commandments and the principles of HIS WORD.  My emotional concerns are God-given mobilizing forces that help my body and mind focus on a problem.  But when they are focused on tomorrow...all that energy is frustrated...it's poured out but not used.  I can't release it into action because I can't act on the future.  And when I do that I even have nasty chemical reactions that eat away the lining of my stomach too!

6.  By the grace of God three trees are coming down today.  (A way of narrowing down life's crazy)

7.  I don't want to be tired and dissatistfied but rather tired but satisfied because energies are expended as God has directed.

8.  I can change...if nothing else will.

9.  Ask myself...How can I handle this problem for the glory of God?

10.  Be quick to obey.

Sew Saturday: School Water

Last summer, I went on a quilt shop hop...I bought this adorable panel and coordinating fabric. I told myself I was going to "get ahead" so that every time someone had a baby I didn't have to stop and make a quilt. That sounds like I don't want to make quilts for people...and that's not true. I just get annoyed sometimes when I feel like I'm never going to finish any of my own projects. *sigh*

 So, about a month ago...Ca-Lubby's teacher announced she was expecting a baby boy in the Fall!

Then, yesterday...Emmer bean's teacher announced she was expecting a baby in the Fall too! All I have to say is be careful in this particular Elementary building...if you are of childbearing years I do NOT recommend drinking the water (hardy har har). And...for the last few years...everyone has had boys! Crazee!

 So, I remembered this panel...bi-sected it and bordered it...Two quilt tops done in one afternoon.  Now, on to sandwich, quilt and bind!  Trying to keep my momentum going...

Fitness Friday

There was a while there that I wasn't exercising because I didn't have the full 40 minutes of recommended cardio time. I went from exercising in a very organized group with full accountability to just me, myself and I.  Then, 10-15 lbs later it occurred to me...DUH...something is better than NOTHING!  I also found the free Fitness Pal App and I'm loving that!

I love this quote...especially the part about time passing anyway.
 My dream isn't to particularly lose a certain amount or anything outward.
 In fact, my dreams have nothing to do with exercise and fitness per se...but my feeling well and taking care of my body does help me accomplish what needs to be done to get there.

I came across this nifty list on Pinterest. I really like the fact that it gives me no excuse. If the family is still sleeping I can't say that I don't want to make too much noise.
 I wish I'd had this when my kids were little babies.
 

And...this one I need strapped to my forehead. It is SOOOO true for me.
 I keep muttering..."self control...self control"...to myself. "If you eat that it so won't be worth it!"

Thoughtful Thursday: Contentment Captured

~Capturing the context of contentment in everyday life~

Loverbrains bought me tulips and hyacinths as a surprise. 

The hyacinths were too stinky to keep inside...
yes, I think their gorgeous smell is better suited to outside! 

I'm adding them to my flower beds where the sewer work mess uprooted my other bulbs.

 

I decided to wash my couch pillows the other day and one got caught in the washer rim and ripped and well, exploded all over. Ew, what a mess.
Anyhew...I had some coupons and so, I have two new couch pillows. Pretty!
 

The daffodils are blooming!!  They are sooo happy.  Next to daisies they are the happiest flowers.
 

And the mini daffodils are blooming...amid a sea of gorgeous myrtle!

So, here I am sitting on the screen porch, listening to the wind chimes, sipping iced coffee and waiting for the school bus to bring my Sweet Boobahs home to me.  

I'm hoping it beats the next round of thunderstorms rolling in! 

Hello Spring Hodgepodge!

 

1. Besides left over Easter goodies, what's something currently kept in a basket at your house?
I keep many things in baskets...I love Longaberger.  I have balls of yarn in one...coffee in another...tissues in one...essential oils in two others...and that's just the ones I can see from where I'm typing.

2. 'The greater danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it.' ~Michelangelo Buonarroti 

So which one are you...the one who aims too high, or the one who aims too low? Have you ever seen The Sistine Chapel? Did you know Michelangelo's surname prior to answering this question?
As a teacher, I've often agreed with this sentiment.  

3. April 7th is National Beer Day. Hmmm...wonder how that's celebrated? Do you like beer? Have a favorite? If you're not a beer drinker do you have any recipes you enjoy cooking that call for beer?
Teetotaller
 

4. When did you last travel somewhere new? Tell us where? How'd it go?
I drove downtown, via a new route, to my son's Dr appt at the Children's hospital.  It was a better route...but my beef with driving downtown is that you can never find your way back due the one ways...ugh.  CRRRaaazeee!

5. The value of _________________________is greatly overrated.
Starbucks....I can't believe I'm saying that...but it's true.  Still going to be a date night destination, of course...but, for the $$ involved it's just greatly overrated. 

6. What's a pet peeve of yours when it comes to restaurant dining?
People who pick their teeth in front of the mirrors on the wall.  Classy...NOT!  OR...my new one...people on their phones, not talking to each other.  This is especially sad in a nicer restaurant with just two people.  I feel a little better when both people are on their phones but it's harder to watch when one person is ignoring the other.  I feel like inviting that other person to join us...we promise to talk to you!

7. It's Poetry Month...share a favorite poem, either the title, a few lines you find meaningful, or the whole kit and caboodle.

"Hope" is the thing with feathers --
That perches in the soul --
And sings the tune without the words --
And never stops -- at all --

And sweetest -- in the Gale -- is heard --
And sore must be the storm --
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm --

I've heard it in the chillest land --
And on the strangest Sea --
Yet, never, in Extremity,
It asked a crumb -- of Me. 

 Emily Dickinson

8. Insert your own random thought here.
Spring is springing here...my daffodils are blooming and my Loverbrains bought me Hyacinths and tulips...Yay!!  Dogwood trees are just popping out and Forsythia is popping bright yellow!  Happiness!!

Pondering the "tions"...

I've been pondering the connection between what some people call opposition and what I think might be superstition because I think it's sanctification.

A lot of stuff has been happening around here.  Lots of things breaking...vehicles, appliances, sewer...  And, there is specific work stress, and Caleb's hospitalization...And, big changes in ministries...

When people hear about it, I'm told one of two things...

Let's start with the easy one...Superstition..."Things always happen in threes" (which incidentally stinks to hear if you're on number 5 or 6...plus, who wants to start counting when cruddy, hard stuff is happening?...)  Now, don't get mad...I've said it myself.  And, sometimes it does seem like three major things happen close together.  But, if that's my answer to people all the time...well, it's rather hopeless isn't it.  It's like, "Well, quick count to three...stuff happens...move on!"

The other thing I hear is...Opposition..."Boy, you are totally under serious opposition.  I'll pray for you!"  One of my first questions is...opposition from whom?  God or Satan?  Then I get all wigged out because I'm not sure who...What if God doesn't want me to be moving in this new direction...or maybe it's Satan trying to tempt me to quit.  Ack!  And, truly in my pondering of that particular conundrum...I realized that you really can't always know the answer...Truly, it doesn't much matter...because...

I am living out God's progressive sanctification in my life.  As I grow in grace, I am gradually – but steadily – changing to be more like Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:18). This occurs in a process of daily spiritual renewal (Colossians 3:10).  In Philippians, Paul talks about being sanctified even as he ministered to others. Paul claimed that he had not reached perfection, but that he “pressed on” to attain everything Christ desired for him (Philippians 3:12).  

I know that there are things in my life and heart that need to change in order for this to happen.  I pray often that God won't leave me the same and will make those changes.  

Trials, both big and small, change me.  God isn't opposing me or letting Satan mess with me, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." 1 Cor. 10:13

God is answering my prayer and making me learn, change and grow.  My Heavenly Father knows me and parents me well.  "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."  Hebrews 12:11

I want to look back on difficult times like this and see God's faithfulness in huge bold print.  If I blow it off as a superstition or an undefined opposition then I might miss how He's sanctifying me...how He's for me.

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?
 As it is written:

“For your sake we face death all day long;

we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 8:31-39 (Emphasis mine)

Friday Funnies...

Hehehehe...cute!

 

Oh, How I wish!!!!!
 

Hilarious! If I did decide to pick up violin now, I'm pretty sure it'd sound about the same!!
 Although, the ukulele I got for Christmas has been great fun. Hmmm...ya never know!
 

Coffee O Clock Hodgepodge

 

1. This coming weekend is Palm Sunday, which marks the beginning of Holy Week. Do you celebrate Easter in your home? What was your favorite Easter tradition as a child?

We usually read "Benjamin's Box" by Melody Carlson and open the plastic eggs that go with the story.  We also buy new outfits to wear to church on Resurrection Sunday.  I don't remember any specific traditions growing up...I remember dressing up, and usually an early morning "sunrise" service...sometimes a Friday night service.  I remember great music!  Art Thou the Christ and beautiful cantatas.
2. George Weinberg is quoted as saying, 'Hope never abandons you, you abandon it.' Agree or disagree? Share your own thoughts on the word hope.
Hope is defined as a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen or a feeling of trust.  I think the biggest question is what are you basing your hope on or hoping for?

Romans 8:23-24..."We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us.  We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don’t need to hope for it.  But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.)"

Hebrews 11:1, "Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see."

3. Weigh in with a yay or nay on the traditional Easter candies. A solid milk chocolate bunny? Cadbury Creme Eggs? Peeps? Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs? Jellybeans? Coconut Cream Eggs? Of the candies listed, which one would you most like to find in your Easter basket?
I usually savor one Cadbury Creme Egg each year.  I also LOVE malted milk eggs...I've been known to eat them until my tongue hurts!  I didn't buy them this year. 
4. When did you last feel 'like a kid in a candy store'?
I'm stumped.
5. What's something you know you do differently than most people? Does that bother you? Does it bother other people?
I'm noticing the structure of our lives is a bit different.  We are very involved with our church but that aside we don't have our kids in extracurriculars.  I've been accused of not caring that my children won't be "well rounded" but my kids have great imaginations and are not stressed out by their after school schedules like so many of their peers.  It is important to us that they have time to just be kids.  If they showed keen interest in something we'd be happy to let them try it...and we have (piano, taekwondo, etc.)...but for now, especially with Daddy's busy work and travel schedule, it is much more important to have family time together.  I'm okay with it and try to be patient with people who aren't.
6. Palm Springs CA, Palm Beach FL, or the PALMetto State...of the three mentioned, which sunny spot would you most like to visit right now? Which have you visited at one time or another?
Palm Beach FL...it's closest to family!
7. If you could change the length of a day would you lengthen it or shorten it? Tell us why.
Lengthen it, and in my vast powers I'd also give myself more energy so I could also accomplish more during that longer day...haha!
8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

Spring is springing...I'm so excited.  I'm always a bit surprised by how much it rains each year though.  I'd say April showers bring May flowers except it's March.  BUT...March does come in like a Lion and hopefully will go out like a Lamb!

Friday Funnies...

I've felt this way a few times this week...

Haha...never thought about it before but yup...pretty accurate.

I'm trying to find an Easter outfit and I sooo feel this way!

The hospital made me think of this one...cuz you sanitize going out and coming into every room...

I love you more...

 

God is so faithful and true.  He loves well.  He always loves me more.

I find this a humbling and crushing truth.   When a fearful possiblity breaches my horizon of awareness...I do not trust Him.  At least not immediately.  Even on top of just seeing His faithfulness...and knowing His presence and peace in hard things.

Instead, I listen to Satan's awful whispers...It will hurt.  All God does is take take take.  Haven't you had enough to deal with?  Doesn't He love you enough to preserve you from more pain?

But, God does know me.  He is a perfect parent.  He knows where my faith needs to grow...and where I am resistant.  I must learn that He is enough for me...that He is faithful and true.  Struggle and opposition are promised...not a maybe.  And until I learn that He ALONE is enough...and give over everything in full surrender...I will continue to be crushed by fear and slow in obedience.  

I think Jon Elliot knew this when he said..."He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.'  I have no rights...God has me...my heart completely.

"Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me."
  Matthew 10:37

Green Hodgepodge!!

1. Share a favorite song, book, or movie title containing the word green?

Green eggs and Ham by Dr. Suess.  I love songs by Keith Green...especially this one I shared yesterday! 
2. Ralph Waldo Emerson is quoted as saying, 'Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect.' Would you agree? Are you a believer in luck?
I'm more a believer in Providence.
3. Spring water, Hot Springs, handspring, spring fling, spring break, spring fever, offspring...which 'spring' word best applies to something in your day, week, or life right now?
Spring break and offspring.  With my littlest offspring being hospitalized last week (read about it here) I sort of lost track of time and now find that Spring break is fast approaching.  I think we will just make a few trips to see grandparents...low key and relaxing. 
4. What's something you do to make yourself look or feel more confident?
Wear good makeup....it makes me feel put together and ready to face the outside world.  I know there's a whole opinion regarding makeup being a "putting on of a mask between you and the world" but I think I'm pretty "real."  It just makes me feel pretty, confident and prepared for working and caring for others.
5.  It's National Celery Month...are you a fan? If so, what's a snack or dish you enjoy that calls for celery?
I cook with celery...mostly in soups and I put celery seed/salt on roasts.  The kids take celery and carrots plain in their lunchboxes.  It has to be fresh...if it gets old it can be awfully bitter.  Ew.

6. What's one thing you wish you'd learned sooner?
I couldn't pick one...
"Be nice to yourself.  It's hard to be happy when someone's mean to you all the time." 
"Be selective in your battles for sometimes peace is better than being right."
"The example we set for our kids--How to act when things don't go our way--is much, much more important than the rules we set for them."  ~Leo Babauta
7. Would you like to own a second home? If so where would you want that home to be?
From everything I've heard about what a nightmare it is in old age and just watching my grandparents dealing with it now...I think I'll say no!  Locations for extended vacations...someplace with a private beach.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.
Thank you for praying for Caleb.  He went back to school...very pale, skinny and very excited.  I'm a bit nervous and thinking he won't quite make it through a full school day.  I know some of you were wondering...he had gastroparesis with emesis.  Basically, a terrible virus he had in February stunned his bowel...pretty much stopping it.  And so he couldn't get anything through and it upset his stomach so he'd throw up.  This went on and off for three weeks until he had PAIN and couldn't keep water down.  We spent four days at the children's hospital...and now he's home with meds to take care of nausea, pain, acid and motility.  Loverbrains made me a spreadsheet so I can keep track of dosages.  Phew...it's a bit stressful. 

Tune Tuesday: Mopping Music!

Singing this song while I mop makes me a happy chica...

so, I thought I'd share the love and motivation...grab your mop and hit play!  I love how we can worship while we clean or do anything.  I also love how worship points us directly to God!!

 

I found it hard to believe

Someone like you cared for me

You put this love in my heart

I tried but could not refuse

You gave me no time to choose

You put this love in my heart

I want to know where the bad feelings go

When I'm depressed and I get down so low

And then I see you coming to me and it's alright

I want to tell you right now

I'm not afraid to say how

You put this love in my heart

There are sometimes when I doubt

But you always find me out

You put this love in my heart

Cause when I see all that you've done for me

It's hard to doubt, I just have to believe

Cause you followed and proved it all of your life

Well I know

the loneliness I had before

Is gone now

I'll never feel it anymore

Cause your love has released me

From all that's in my past

And I know I can believe you

When you say I'll never be forsaken

Your love is gonna last

There's so much more I should say

If I could just find a way

You put this love in my heart

Is all this real or a dream

I feel so good I could scream

You put this love in my heart

I want to know where the bad feelings go

When I'm depressed and I get down so low

And then I see you coming to me and it's alright

You put this love in my heart

You put this love in my heart

You put this love in my heart

God's Hand!

NOTE: This is a loonngg post...you've been forewarned!  So grab some coffee and a cookie first...

 

My son was in the hospital last week...and I've so seen God's hand in the whole experience that I just MUST tell and sing His praises!  I'd just had a discussion with my Dad about how we shouldn't just Pollyanna situations...seeking to see the good and be thankful just for what we can squeeze out.  I asked, "How do we thank Him in the hard things?  What does it sound like?  Will I be able to do it?"  My Dad told me it would be hard...but basically I'd find my answers in proclaiming what I knew to be true about God's Sovereign character.  He was right...God is good...all the time.

Calubby had a virus in February...it was pretty bad and I nursed him through it per usual.  The BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) diet, rest, plenty of liquids.  It'd been going around.  I wasn't too worried but then it got strange.  He'd be better for a few days and then vomiting again.  I was puzzled and, I'll be honest, a little annoyed because it had lasted so long and my schedule looked like chop suey.  Those of you who know me, know I like my schedule orderly.  I was struggling with myself, struggling about being a Mommy first...first before any ministry or school or church commitments.  I see this as God's hand...maybe a good loving smack from that hand...to make me fully committed and content with His plans for me. 

I'd been thinking of just sending him to school the next time he threw up cuz he seemed to be fine after, no fever and I was MISSING STUFF...sigh.  I'm so glad God again showed His hand of Sovereignty and worked changes in my heart so that I kept him home...again.  I was met with lots of love from the co leader and staff I felt I was "letting down"....they pointed me to Truth.  I was going to need that love and pointing in the days ahead. 

I am grateful that when his pain increased we were at an already scheduled Dr's appt.  God's hand.  We had the best nurse we have ever had draw blood from Caleb.  This was a big deal cuz he's had some pretty traumatic blood draws with his allergies over the years.  Not only was she a fabulous vampire...but when he threw up near the end of the draw, she calmly finished the draw and was sweet and wonderful to us!  God's hand.  When we went over to radiology to get an upper GI...we had 2-3 wonderful nurses working with us...who spent 2 hours trying to get him to keep barium down and move it to the right areas to light up what we desperately needed to see.  They were patient and kind.  God's hand.  

We were sent to Riley Children's Hospital.  God's hand was all over this...as we live very close to this wonderful facility!  When we were sent to Riley my neighbor, who isn't always home, was home!  She stayed with sweet Emma late into the night.  A huge blessing.  God's hand.  It was rainy and rush hour but God kept us safe and allowed me to chat with the GI Dr. anticipating our arrival.  She rarely, if ever, calls patients before meeting them but due to God's hand she knew our pediatrician and called and got us all set up so when we arrived we only waited in the ER for 5 minutes.  Totally God's hand!  Oh, He is so good.  

We had great nurses...all the way to admitting time and throughout our stay.  I had opportunities to share Christ...His goodness and how I was seeing His plan...why I had such Peace.  People don't really understand peace.  They think you're super human....which is super not the case...God just gives peace like a river....amazing...and beyond understanding.  When I was most scared or tired...He brought Scripture vividly to my mind usually via songs flooding my heart.  God is so good.  

A few songs were...

In Christ alone my hope is found.  He is my light, my strength, my song; this Cornerstone, this solid ground, firm through the fiercest drought and storm.  What heights of love, what depths of peace, when fears are stilled, when strivings cease!  My Comforter, my All in All, here in the love of Christ I stand.  

My God is so Big, so Strong and So Mighty there's nothing my God cannot do...  the mountains are His the valleys are His the stars are His handiwork too...My God is so Big, so Strong and So Mighty there's nothing my God cannot do.

He hideth my life in the cleft of the Rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land;  He hideth my life in the depths of His love And covers me there with His hand, And covers me there with His hand.

I see God's hand in making Darren's work flexible and understanding.  He had a doozy of a week scheduled and yet his boss was great about letting him be with us and with Emma as needed.  He's paying for it a bit this week so please pray for him.  He's tired.  And also...just a sidenote right here...ya'll know how I usually hate on social media, etc.  BUT...I'm super grateful for it.  The whole time I was in the hospital and going through this journey with Caleb, I was able to request prayer and get support via technology.  Without it there wouldn't have been much of any outside encouragement because the hospital had a no visitors policy. God is good.

In the days that followed God showed His hand continually...He made my friend Cathy completely willing and able to help me by taking Emma off the bus and pottying the dog.  I see how He even bonded Emma with Cathy's grandson at a time where caring for and playing with a toddler was just what Emma needed as a comfort.  God's hand.

I am blessed with a great husband...who was Mr. Laundry...and very patient with his ridiculously tired wife.  Things like this are good marriage strengtheners...and I see God's hand in all of that too.  I'm sure there are other things I'll think of after I post this...but you get the idea and this is already super long.

God is in control.  His ways are perfect...Great is His faithfulness.  God is good all the time.

Hodgepodge Hopes for Spring!

1. What's the first image that comes to mind when you hear the word 'spring'? Which phrase best describes the season of spring where you live right now (today)-sprung! almost there, or still waiting?
Daffodils!  Due to late Fall sewer work, mine will probably be coming up in some strange places this Spring.  Spring might be coming...maybe.  It's raining and the snow is melting.  The birds are chirping and I saw a robin yesterday.  I'm trying not to get too excited.

2. Bed, couch, stapler, garage door, computer mouse, recliner, flashlight, door knob...which household item containing springs most needs replacing in your home? Speaking of springs...did you ever own a Slinky?
Garage Doors!  It's a plan in the works.  Right now the one is held together with duct tape.  I might have backed into it...slightly.  Ahem.  They are ancient wooden doors...and they sadly didn't need my added help on their way to destruction.  Garage doors are pricey...wooeee!
 

3. March is Women's History Month. Share a favorite quote by a woman.
I read this the other day...
"How can this person who so annoys or offends me be God's messenger?  Is God so unkind as to send that sort across my path?  Insofar as his treatment of me requires more kindness than I can find in my own heart, demands love of a quality I do not possess, asks of me patience that only the Spirit of God can produce in me, he is God's messenger.  God sends him in order that he may send me running to God for help."  ~Elisabeth Elliot

4. What's a question that looms large in your mind right now?
How do I glorify God in the hard things?  Lots of mini trials...lots of expensive things breaking and stomach bugs and colds.  I'm tired...but I want to glorify God in ALL things.
 
5. Are you a sugar freak? By that I mean how much do you love sugar? With all the bad press sugar gets these days, have you made any efforts to reduce the amount of sugar you consume?
I am a sugar freak.  I am actively working to cut it out of my diet.  I'm only allowing myself one complex carb a day.  If I stick to whole grains in place of carbs (that turn to sugar right away) I feel a lot better.  I also only allow myself a small dessert on weekends.
 
6. Would you rather have less work to do or more work you enjoy doing?
Sort of a double edged sword isn't it?  If you have less work, I suppose you might have more time for play but chances are you won't.  Isn't there a saying about idle hands being the devil's playground or something?  If you have more work you enjoy, you'll still burn out eventually....unless it's what God's planned for you to be doing.  I guess, I'd tend towards being busier...probably why God's giving me the big 'ole SLOW DOWN and making me stay home with sick kiddos and wait for repair men...BE STILL AND KNOW I AM GOD.
 
7. Ever been to Texas? Of the top ten Texas tourist attractions which would you most like to see-The Alamo, The San Antonio River Walk, The State Capital, Dallas World Aquarium, Padre Island National Seashore, Houston Space Center, Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels, Six Flags Fiesta Texas,  Moody Gardens, or Galveston Island?
I have never been to TX.  If Loverbrains ever took a job with another company we'd probably live in Houston though.  Their good weather is very appealing to me.  Their bad weather...er, not so much.  My husband just came back from a conference/training there and he said I'd LOVE the food.  He's probably right.
 
8.  Insert your own random thought here.
My little guy just can't seem to kick whatever this stomach bug is...He'll be better for several days and then horribly sick again.  I'm praying the Dr. will provide some words of wisdom today...and that it's nothing more than a weird virus and not something more serious.  I am learning to be more patient and content with last minute forced flexibility.  God is good all the time.  He has a plan and He knows all things.  His ways are perfect!

HIM Sunday!

When I survey the wondrous cross 
on which the Prince of Glory died; 
my richest gain I count but loss, 
and pour contempt on all my pride. 

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, 
save in the death of Christ, my God; 
all the vain things that charm me most, 

I sacrifice them to his blood. 
 

See, from his head, his hands, his feet, 

sorrow and love flow mingled down. 

Did e'er such love and sorrow meet, 

or thorns compose so rich a crown. 
 

Were the whole realm of nature mine, 

that were an offering far too small;  

love so amazing, so divine, 

demands my soul, my life, my all. 

 Text: Isaac Watts, 1674-1748

Music: Lowell Mason, 1792-1872

Saturday Sharing: Grace...

I have recently been introduced to SheReadsTruth.  I have been very impressed with their work.  You can buy their gorgeous prints and journals but so far I've just used the free app and free emails.  I'm delighted.  AND convicted.  This is not the whole devotional from today...but I was so struck by the truth of this poem...

O God of Grace,

Thou hast imputed my sin to my substitute,
  and has imputed his righteousness to my soul,
    clothing me with a bridegroom’s robe,
    deking me with jewels of holiness.
But in my Christian walk I am still in rags;
my best prayers are stained with sin;
    my penitential tears are so much impurity;
    my confessions of wrong are so many aggravations of sin;
    my receiving the Spirit is tinctured with selfishness.
 

I need to repent of my repentance;
I need my tears to be washed;
I have no robe to bring to cover my sins,
    no loom to weave my own righteousness;
I am always standing clothed in filthy garments,
    and by grace am always receiving change of raiment,
    for thou dost always justify the ungodly;
I am always going into the far country,
    and always returning home as a prodigal,
    always saying, Father, forgive me,
    and thou art always bringing forth the best robe.
Every morning let me wear it,
    every evening return in it,
    go out to the day’s work in it,
    be married in it,
    be wound in death in it,
    stand before the great white throne in it,
    enter heaven in it shining as the sun.
Grant me never to lose sight of
    the exceeding sinfulness of sin,
    the exceeding righteousness of salvation,
    the exceeding glory of Christ,
    the exceeding beauty of holiness,
   the exceeding wonder of grace

- “Continual Repentance” from The Valley of Vision

Monday Randomness...

In case you couldn't tell, I love coffee.  I'm sure all the coffee photos were a big clue!  But, I have this thing against decaf.  It just seems so hypocritical.  I'm pretending to drink coffee.  

However, age has finally caught up with me and if I drink real coffee past about noon then I'm up at 2 AM staring at the ceiling.  

So, in the cold, frigid evenings when I want to hold a warm mug of something, I've been drinking *gasp* TEA!  I really like Yogi Tea...because I love the little sayings that come attached to each bag.  This is also the reason I love Dove chocolates but that's a whole other bunny trail.  

Sooo, for a bit of Monday randomness...and since the kids have a two hour delay and I have time to type this up...I'll share with you a few of the tea bag notes I've saved.

Speak the truth.

Develop the power of listening.

Love is where compassion prevails and kindness rules.

Let your heart speak to other's hearts.

Listen and you will develop intuition.

Not exactly Scripture...but interesting to ponder.  Some are total ridiculous crud that I throw away with the soggy bag...but some are fun to think about.  IF I had tons of time I'm sure I could tear the above apart and analyze them more closely...but I don't and I'm not.

Enjoy...and stay warm if you live in any of the frozen parts of the country.  It's 6 degrees here with a windchill of -30!  BRRR!