TEACHING YOUR KIDS ABOUT LOVE, SEX AND RELATIONSHIPS
I stumbled across this article about teaching your kids about love, sex and relationships from Focus on the Family. A comment made that sums it up well is this: "The days of “the talk” are over. Think sound bytes." It talks about how even at age 4, we are starting to prepare them for this idea in subtle ways. I thought it was interesting and thought I would share it.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Friday, April 28, 2006
WATERMELON POPS
A great resource that I've been enjoying as a parent is the age-appropriate magazines from Focus on the Family available here. I recently got this recipe from them.
What you need:
* watermelon
* wooden craft sticks or skewers
* cookie cutters
* Ziploc plastic bag
What you do:
1) Cut watermelon slices 1 inch thick.
2) Have your child cut shapes out of the slices with a cookie cutter. Insert a wooden stick into each shape.
3) Let your child stack the watermelon pops in a Ziploc bag and freeze for 30 minutes.
4) Unwrap and enjoy a cool treat!
A great resource that I've been enjoying as a parent is the age-appropriate magazines from Focus on the Family available here. I recently got this recipe from them.
What you need:
* watermelon
* wooden craft sticks or skewers
* cookie cutters
* Ziploc plastic bag
What you do:
1) Cut watermelon slices 1 inch thick.
2) Have your child cut shapes out of the slices with a cookie cutter. Insert a wooden stick into each shape.
3) Let your child stack the watermelon pops in a Ziploc bag and freeze for 30 minutes.
4) Unwrap and enjoy a cool treat!
A WORK DAY FOR ALL
Earlier this week, we decided to add some stones to our landscaping. Of course the kids had to help out. Evan ended up taking the whole day off work and we shoveled LOTS of rock and laid it around our house to help finish off some of the landscaping.I didn't take any before/after pictures, but I wish I would have. It really didn't cost that much and it was only one day's worth of work, but what a difference it made in our yard! I think the best part was the fun we had as a family though.
We are learning to make memorable moments out of the simple daily tasks of life. After dinner that same night, we all went over the house that Evan is painting for a co-worker of his, and we all participated in that event as well. The kids discovered the hose and the numerous ladybugs in the yard and that kept them entertained while Evan and I painted. It honestly was the last thing I felt like doing after shoveling stones all day, but the memories made, the smiles shared and just the closeness of the family was well worth it. I honestly believe that utilizing every moment you can as a family together is what makes the difference in kids' lives. I'd love to hear some of the ways your family connects with one another in free or non-expensive ways. I'm always looking for fun and creative things to do aside from the daily tasks of life!
Earlier this week, we decided to add some stones to our landscaping. Of course the kids had to help out. Evan ended up taking the whole day off work and we shoveled LOTS of rock and laid it around our house to help finish off some of the landscaping.I didn't take any before/after pictures, but I wish I would have. It really didn't cost that much and it was only one day's worth of work, but what a difference it made in our yard! I think the best part was the fun we had as a family though.
We are learning to make memorable moments out of the simple daily tasks of life. After dinner that same night, we all went over the house that Evan is painting for a co-worker of his, and we all participated in that event as well. The kids discovered the hose and the numerous ladybugs in the yard and that kept them entertained while Evan and I painted. It honestly was the last thing I felt like doing after shoveling stones all day, but the memories made, the smiles shared and just the closeness of the family was well worth it. I honestly believe that utilizing every moment you can as a family together is what makes the difference in kids' lives. I'd love to hear some of the ways your family connects with one another in free or non-expensive ways. I'm always looking for fun and creative things to do aside from the daily tasks of life!
DON'T DROP THE BALL!
I'd have to say that lately, the role I feel like I fit most would be a juggler. I imagine that most moms can probably relate on a daily basis. This week has been crazy! Between eye and speech appointments, yardwork (actual landscaping!)and housework, helping my husband paint a house for a guy, entertaining on a couple of different occassions, on top of trying to homeschool and keep up with the household chores, life has been CRAZY!! The cool thing is, I asked God to help me prioritize my time and help me get things done this week, along with going out of my way to help others out, and HE HAS!! It's amazing what prayer does! God knows what we can handle, and hey, I've actually got a few minutes to catch up on my blog!
I'd have to say that lately, the role I feel like I fit most would be a juggler. I imagine that most moms can probably relate on a daily basis. This week has been crazy! Between eye and speech appointments, yardwork (actual landscaping!)and housework, helping my husband paint a house for a guy, entertaining on a couple of different occassions, on top of trying to homeschool and keep up with the household chores, life has been CRAZY!! The cool thing is, I asked God to help me prioritize my time and help me get things done this week, along with going out of my way to help others out, and HE HAS!! It's amazing what prayer does! God knows what we can handle, and hey, I've actually got a few minutes to catch up on my blog!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
BACK TO TEACHING!
Earlier this year, I went through a study of the fruits of the spirit with Myah as part of her schooling. Tonight I am sort of recycling some of this information and teaching it to a group of kids ranging from 3-12! I got the initial information here, however, I have changed and added a lot to it. Because of the vast age-range, I'm going to split them into two groups for some of the activities. For example, with the older crowd, I have a word scramble made and for the younger group, I'm going to have them choose which picture goes with which fruit. (for example, love = a heart, etc.) Not only do I want them to learn and know what the fruits of the spirit are, but also the importance of living them out.
One idea that a friend of mine had was to dig up 2 dandelions and take the roots with one and not the other. Roots = Fruits! If our roots are firm in Christ, we will produce fruit (or in the dandelion case, a flower....) If our roots are not firm in Christ, we will whither and not be able to produce fruit.
Another key is to ask God to help us bear fruit! I'm going to teach them how to turn Galatians 5:22-23 into a prayer so they can understand how to ask God to help them produce fruit!
I'm looking forward to this experience, but I'm a bit overwhelmed. I think I "over-planned" for tonight, but that's okay...there's always next week to finish! I'm excited to teach other kids again. Other than my own kids (which keeps me VERY busy...), it's been 5-1/2 years since I've been in the world of teaching!
Earlier this year, I went through a study of the fruits of the spirit with Myah as part of her schooling. Tonight I am sort of recycling some of this information and teaching it to a group of kids ranging from 3-12! I got the initial information here, however, I have changed and added a lot to it. Because of the vast age-range, I'm going to split them into two groups for some of the activities. For example, with the older crowd, I have a word scramble made and for the younger group, I'm going to have them choose which picture goes with which fruit. (for example, love = a heart, etc.) Not only do I want them to learn and know what the fruits of the spirit are, but also the importance of living them out.
One idea that a friend of mine had was to dig up 2 dandelions and take the roots with one and not the other. Roots = Fruits! If our roots are firm in Christ, we will produce fruit (or in the dandelion case, a flower....) If our roots are not firm in Christ, we will whither and not be able to produce fruit.
Another key is to ask God to help us bear fruit! I'm going to teach them how to turn Galatians 5:22-23 into a prayer so they can understand how to ask God to help them produce fruit!
I'm looking forward to this experience, but I'm a bit overwhelmed. I think I "over-planned" for tonight, but that's okay...there's always next week to finish! I'm excited to teach other kids again. Other than my own kids (which keeps me VERY busy...), it's been 5-1/2 years since I've been in the world of teaching!
Sunday, April 23, 2006
A NEW BOOK
We received the book, "Revolution in World Missions" written by Dr. K.P. Yohannan today from church. You can get a FREE COPY as well by clicking here. So far, I'm only on chapter 3, but have been sucked in already. This is through the ministry called Gospel for Asia.
A blurp from the back:
"In this exciting and fast-moving narrative, K.P. Yohannan shares how God brought him from his remote Indian village to become the founder of Gospel for Asia. Drawing from fascinating true stores sand eye-opening statistics, K.P. challenges Christians to examine and change their lifestyles in view of millions who have never heard the gospel."
The story of this man's calling is nothing short of amazing in itself to read. If you've read this book, or decide to pick it up, let me know what you think!
We received the book, "Revolution in World Missions" written by Dr. K.P. Yohannan today from church. You can get a FREE COPY as well by clicking here. So far, I'm only on chapter 3, but have been sucked in already. This is through the ministry called Gospel for Asia.
A blurp from the back:
"In this exciting and fast-moving narrative, K.P. Yohannan shares how God brought him from his remote Indian village to become the founder of Gospel for Asia. Drawing from fascinating true stores sand eye-opening statistics, K.P. challenges Christians to examine and change their lifestyles in view of millions who have never heard the gospel."
The story of this man's calling is nothing short of amazing in itself to read. If you've read this book, or decide to pick it up, let me know what you think!
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
WATER CHALLENGE
At this point I give myself a C for my challenge of drinking water. I was doing so well -- I don't know what happened! I definitely am drinking more than before this challenge, but haven't kept my goal for the past 3 days. I do know that I have been feeling better, had more energy and haven't been as tired as I was before I started this. Even Evan has noticed a difference! I'm going to keep trying!
At this point I give myself a C for my challenge of drinking water. I was doing so well -- I don't know what happened! I definitely am drinking more than before this challenge, but haven't kept my goal for the past 3 days. I do know that I have been feeling better, had more energy and haven't been as tired as I was before I started this. Even Evan has noticed a difference! I'm going to keep trying!
Monday, April 17, 2006
LOVING MONTANA
It's been almost 4 years now since we moved here to Montana. When we first left to come here, we seriously only thought it would be for a year or two. It's always amazing to see how God has other plans than what I do. I love the verse about how a man has many plans in his heart, but it is God who determines his steps. I'm so grateful for that because if we would have determined our own steps these past few years, we would have missed out on so many of God's wonderful blessings that he has given us through our obedience in coming and staying in Montana.
God took us through some tough times. I shed many tears in our first year of living here. God kept me from any close friendships for about 9 months after we arrived. He was doing a work in my heart. I seriously would walk around the grocery store looking for another mom that I might introduce myself to, but it never really happened. He needed me to realize that I needed HIM first ahead of family and friendships. HE was the One I needed to talk to and share my heart with. HE needed to be my first priority! It was a hard lesson to learn, but I'm so thankful He took the time to teach me!
We left so much behind when we left Michigan. Our parents live about 10 minutes apart. We had so many wonderful friends that we had developed a relationship over many years with. That's such a priceless thing that you could never replace! But God knew what He was doing. I finally met a friend after 9 months. We did a lot of walking together. I was so grateful that God finally provided someone that I could share conversation with. Today, He has blessed us with many families that are like family to us. Praise God for the body of Christ. They will never replace our moms, dads, sisters and brothers, nor can they replace our friends back in Michigan, but they are new added blessings that have filled the gap and satisfied that need in our lives. And now they have become irreplaceable as well. We love them dearly!
One of God's greatest blessings is the bond that our immediate family has made having gone through this experience. It has bonded our marriage together in ways I can't even explain. The times that we share together as a family are priceless! We are learning what holidays and birthdays are like without grandparents around, but as a result are trying to get creative and make them extra special when it's just the 5 of us!
We have always been a family who loves to enjoy God's beautifulful creation. Montana has fingerprints of God on it that are unique to any other place in the world. The pictures on this post have all been taken in the county that we live in. We have made many memories as we explore this state enjoying God's beauty while we hike, fish, hunt and camp. We look forward to making many more memories with our family doing these things as they grow up. It's becoming a part of who we are!
When Evan first told me he got the phone call about moving out here, I never anticipated what God had in store for us over these past 4 years. I couldn't have imagined or dreamed the plans He had for us. This only excites me to the bone about what He has in store for our future.
Yes, Michigan will always have a special place in our hearts. Not only do I miss people there, but I miss the lakes, the beaches, the trees and the colors of fall that are so vibrant in that part of the nation. But God has called us to a new place. We have been asked to "pick up our tent stakes" and spread our wings westward a bit. Being in the Lord's will is all that matters. When you're not in God's will, there is no peace. I have a peace in my heart. I know this is where God has called us to pound our stakes in the ground, and I'm grateful to Him for expanding our horizons by 1500 miles!
It's been almost 4 years now since we moved here to Montana. When we first left to come here, we seriously only thought it would be for a year or two. It's always amazing to see how God has other plans than what I do. I love the verse about how a man has many plans in his heart, but it is God who determines his steps. I'm so grateful for that because if we would have determined our own steps these past few years, we would have missed out on so many of God's wonderful blessings that he has given us through our obedience in coming and staying in Montana.God took us through some tough times. I shed many tears in our first year of living here. God kept me from any close friendships for about 9 months after we arrived. He was doing a work in my heart. I seriously would walk around the grocery store looking for another mom that I might introduce myself to, but it never really happened. He needed me to realize that I needed HIM first ahead of family and friendships. HE was the One I needed to talk to and share my heart with. HE needed to be my first priority! It was a hard lesson to learn, but I'm so thankful He took the time to teach me!
We left so much behind when we left Michigan. Our parents live about 10 minutes apart. We had so many wonderful friends that we had developed a relationship over many years with. That's such a priceless thing that you could never replace! But God knew what He was doing. I finally met a friend after 9 months. We did a lot of walking together. I was so grateful that God finally provided someone that I could share conversation with. Today, He has blessed us with many families that are like family to us. Praise God for the body of Christ. They will never replace our moms, dads, sisters and brothers, nor can they replace our friends back in Michigan, but they are new added blessings that have filled the gap and satisfied that need in our lives. And now they have become irreplaceable as well. We love them dearly!
One of God's greatest blessings is the bond that our immediate family has made having gone through this experience. It has bonded our marriage together in ways I can't even explain. The times that we share together as a family are priceless! We are learning what holidays and birthdays are like without grandparents around, but as a result are trying to get creative and make them extra special when it's just the 5 of us!
We have always been a family who loves to enjoy God's beautifulful creation. Montana has fingerprints of God on it that are unique to any other place in the world. The pictures on this post have all been taken in the county that we live in. We have made many memories as we explore this state enjoying God's beauty while we hike, fish, hunt and camp. We look forward to making many more memories with our family doing these things as they grow up. It's becoming a part of who we are!
When Evan first told me he got the phone call about moving out here, I never anticipated what God had in store for us over these past 4 years. I couldn't have imagined or dreamed the plans He had for us. This only excites me to the bone about what He has in store for our future.
Yes, Michigan will always have a special place in our hearts. Not only do I miss people there, but I miss the lakes, the beaches, the trees and the colors of fall that are so vibrant in that part of the nation. But God has called us to a new place. We have been asked to "pick up our tent stakes" and spread our wings westward a bit. Being in the Lord's will is all that matters. When you're not in God's will, there is no peace. I have a peace in my heart. I know this is where God has called us to pound our stakes in the ground, and I'm grateful to Him for expanding our horizons by 1500 miles!
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Thursday, April 13, 2006
A FREEING THOUGHT...
As I was glancing through Girl Talk blog, I read the following quote, which was listed on their "Fashion Pt. 4" discussion.
"And because we are created in the image of our Creator, each of us has this propensity to make things beautiful. That means, when we decorate our homes, or plant a lovely flower garden, or seek to add some form of beauty to our surroundings, even when we attempt to enhance our personal appearance, we are actually imitating and delighting in the works of our Great Creator."
Something I have often struggled with is whether it was appropriate or not for me to spend time and energy doing the very things they discussed, or if that was just my being selfish and acting in my flesh. I enjoy things like flower gardens, decorating my home and getting my hair done onoccasionn, but never thought about my enjoyment of it coming from the fact that I am made in the image of my Creator and have the same desire to make things beautiful! Read the whole article. It's a good, thought-provoking post!
As I was glancing through Girl Talk blog, I read the following quote, which was listed on their "Fashion Pt. 4" discussion.
"And because we are created in the image of our Creator, each of us has this propensity to make things beautiful. That means, when we decorate our homes, or plant a lovely flower garden, or seek to add some form of beauty to our surroundings, even when we attempt to enhance our personal appearance, we are actually imitating and delighting in the works of our Great Creator."
Something I have often struggled with is whether it was appropriate or not for me to spend time and energy doing the very things they discussed, or if that was just my being selfish and acting in my flesh. I enjoy things like flower gardens, decorating my home and getting my hair done onoccasionn, but never thought about my enjoyment of it coming from the fact that I am made in the image of my Creator and have the same desire to make things beautiful! Read the whole article. It's a good, thought-provoking post!
KEEPING MYSELF ACCOUNTABLE...
I made a commitment to myself to drink a minimum of 64oz. of water per day for a week. I know how good drinking lots of water is for you, but I just don't do it! So, after reading an article last night about all of this (& MUCH more -- I'll try to post it at some point...), I'm going to be purposeful about it for one week. I figure if I put this on here, I'll have all of you to hold me accountable! After that, I want to see how I feel and if I have more energy. Hopefully this will last longer than a week, but I needed an attainable goal to get me started. I really hope it gives me more energy and no matter what, I know I'll be more healthy!
I made a commitment to myself to drink a minimum of 64oz. of water per day for a week. I know how good drinking lots of water is for you, but I just don't do it! So, after reading an article last night about all of this (& MUCH more -- I'll try to post it at some point...), I'm going to be purposeful about it for one week. I figure if I put this on here, I'll have all of you to hold me accountable! After that, I want to see how I feel and if I have more energy. Hopefully this will last longer than a week, but I needed an attainable goal to get me started. I really hope it gives me more energy and no matter what, I know I'll be more healthy!
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
MODEST DRESS
I just read a really good post at Girl Talk Blog discussing the importance of dressing modestly. I would really recommend reading this. It's a bigger issue than we realize, I think and they did a good job of discussing it according to God's standards laid out in His Word!
I just read a really good post at Girl Talk Blog discussing the importance of dressing modestly. I would really recommend reading this. It's a bigger issue than we realize, I think and they did a good job of discussing it according to God's standards laid out in His Word!
ALWAYS BATH TIME!
It seems that spring has hit Kiana full-force this year. I can't keep her in the house! She will sneak over to the door, open it, creep downt the cement stairs (Don't worry, there's only 2!) and crawl all the way out to the sandbox! This happens in a blink of an eye! Along with this routine that takes place several times a day, she is discovering dirt! She will be entertained for hours just playing in the sandbox (which in MT, the sand is mostly dirt -- none of that beautiful white stuff here!) She just LOVES to be outside! Her siblings like to help her make mud pies, which she just goes crazy over! As Evan says, "It's like we have another little boy on our hands!" :)
Earlier today, Myah, Joel and I went outside to do some painting. Joel was painting "roads" and a "parking lot" on his piece of wood and Myah was decorating her balance beam that her daddy surprised her with last week. She just wanted to make it more colorful! Of course you can't keep a 13 month old out of the fun either! Kiana was covered from head to toe with every color paint we were using! The blue in her hair took 2 washings to get it out, and I'm sure you can still find traces of it there. I'm not sure if the clothes are salvagable or not!
It's so much fun to watch a little 1 year old discover the world around her. Sometimes I just stop and think about these experiences as being a very first for her! How incredible it must be to crawl through the grass for the first time and dig in mommy's flower garden, just like she does! After she had her bath (probably her first of at least 2 for the day!) I just snuggled her tightly and was thrilled by the fact that she just clung to me. Every day is a treasure full of new experiences for all our children! I'm just trying to soak them up as much as I can, even if it does mean that it's bathtime again!
GOD IS DOING A NEW THING!
Well, we've lived here in Montana for almost 4 years now. (We moved the end of May...) We've attended Calvary Chapel in Billings for almost that entire time. I am so thrilled to say that God is in the beginning stages of planting a Calvary Chapel here in our hometown! We have travelled the journey to Billings almost every Sunday (with the exception of the few times we've been sick...) and it was worth every minute of it! Unforunately, because of the distance, we've had a hard time getting plugged into mid-week activities, such as AWANA, which is the program they offer for our children.
Anyway, to make a very long story short, our pastor is going to start driving here on Tuesday nights to lead a Bible study with the intent of it becoming a church plant sometime in the future. We hope to eventually hold a Sunday afternoon service, when the time comes. The need here is SO great for something like this to happen. Rumors have been flying, and we've already had people asking about when church will start! Our Tuesday nights will take us on a journey verse by verse through Ephesians (which is how Pastor Wayne and most all Calvary Chapel pastors teach....) I'm looking forward to this study.
One of the main goals is to start an AWANA program here next fall. A group of us will be going through some training this summer and, Lord willing, it will be off the ground next fall already. As I said, the need is so great, and there are a bunch of us who are willing to do what it takes, seeking God's will, to minister to a very hurting community.
Our pastor's first commitment is his church in Billings, but he is thrilled (to say the least!) to be able to help jump-start whatever God is wanting to do here. We are praying for a permanent leader to rise up and be called to take on this position, but until God brings the right man, Pastor Wayne is giving his all. Praise God for working in amazing ways! I'm honored to be able to participate in what He's doing here in this community! We are expecting great and awesome things -- "more than we could ever ask or imagine!"
The funny thing is, the Billing CC is moving to a location which will be a minimum of 20 minutes farther for us to drive at the end of this summer. I can't help but think that God's timing is perfect...as always!
Well, we've lived here in Montana for almost 4 years now. (We moved the end of May...) We've attended Calvary Chapel in Billings for almost that entire time. I am so thrilled to say that God is in the beginning stages of planting a Calvary Chapel here in our hometown! We have travelled the journey to Billings almost every Sunday (with the exception of the few times we've been sick...) and it was worth every minute of it! Unforunately, because of the distance, we've had a hard time getting plugged into mid-week activities, such as AWANA, which is the program they offer for our children.
Anyway, to make a very long story short, our pastor is going to start driving here on Tuesday nights to lead a Bible study with the intent of it becoming a church plant sometime in the future. We hope to eventually hold a Sunday afternoon service, when the time comes. The need here is SO great for something like this to happen. Rumors have been flying, and we've already had people asking about when church will start! Our Tuesday nights will take us on a journey verse by verse through Ephesians (which is how Pastor Wayne and most all Calvary Chapel pastors teach....) I'm looking forward to this study.
One of the main goals is to start an AWANA program here next fall. A group of us will be going through some training this summer and, Lord willing, it will be off the ground next fall already. As I said, the need is so great, and there are a bunch of us who are willing to do what it takes, seeking God's will, to minister to a very hurting community.
Our pastor's first commitment is his church in Billings, but he is thrilled (to say the least!) to be able to help jump-start whatever God is wanting to do here. We are praying for a permanent leader to rise up and be called to take on this position, but until God brings the right man, Pastor Wayne is giving his all. Praise God for working in amazing ways! I'm honored to be able to participate in what He's doing here in this community! We are expecting great and awesome things -- "more than we could ever ask or imagine!"
The funny thing is, the Billing CC is moving to a location which will be a minimum of 20 minutes farther for us to drive at the end of this summer. I can't help but think that God's timing is perfect...as always!
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
THE COMMISSION TO FAITH
(By Beth Moore)
Lord, today I accept my calling
not to perfection or performance.
My calling is to faith.
I have been chosen for this generation.
I have a place in the heritage of faith.
I'm going to stop wishing and whining
and start believing and receiving.
What Your Word says is mine.
I won't let others steal my hope.
I won't argue with argue with a Pharisee.
I will believe and therefore speak,
for You, my God, are huge.
Nothing is too hard for You.
Our world needs your wonders.
Rise up, oh Lord!
Please renew Your works in our day.
I confess the unbelief of my generation
and ask You to begin Your revival of faith
in my own heart.
For You are who You say You are.
You can do what You say You can do.
I am who You say I am.
I can do all things through Christ.
Your Word is alive and active in me.
Satan, hear me clearly:
My Father is Maker of heaven and earth.
You are under my feet,
because today and the rest of my days,
I'M BELIEVING GOD!
(By Beth Moore)
Lord, today I accept my calling
not to perfection or performance.
My calling is to faith.
I have been chosen for this generation.
I have a place in the heritage of faith.
I'm going to stop wishing and whining
and start believing and receiving.
What Your Word says is mine.
I won't let others steal my hope.
I won't argue with argue with a Pharisee.
I will believe and therefore speak,
for You, my God, are huge.
Nothing is too hard for You.
Our world needs your wonders.
Rise up, oh Lord!
Please renew Your works in our day.
I confess the unbelief of my generation
and ask You to begin Your revival of faith
in my own heart.
For You are who You say You are.
You can do what You say You can do.
I am who You say I am.
I can do all things through Christ.
Your Word is alive and active in me.
Satan, hear me clearly:
My Father is Maker of heaven and earth.
You are under my feet,
because today and the rest of my days,
I'M BELIEVING GOD!
Monday, April 10, 2006
LAST "BELIEVING GOD" BIBLE STUDY TONIGHT....
As I finished my last day of my Bible study called "Believing God", this thought hit me today in a deeper way. What we believe is what makes us who we are and how we live. It is what prioritizes our time and our energy. The things that really matter to us are what we spend our life doing. I find myself checking, what is it that REALLY matters to you, Terri??? Is it the same things that matter to God??
As a part of this Bible study, we have been asked to look back over our entire life and remember "GodStops", or places where God made Himself known to us, even before we knew Christ. As time goes on, I'd like to share some details of what I discovered in my own life, but I'm not sure I'm ready for that just yet. Looking back over the past 3-4 years, however, especially since we've moved to Montana, I've really been able to see why God has allowed some of the things in my life that He has. Our move to Montana is one of them.
I've really been trying to be purposeful about knowing what I believe and living that out in my life, especially lately. I don't want to live a life of mediocrity because Jesus called me to much more than that. He called me to an abundanat life of believing Him. (Which I continue to learn what this entails on a daily basis, with many failures, I might add!) I want my passion for Jesus to only increase daily! My prayer is that what I believe really comes out in who I am and how I live my life -- not for my glory, but only to show the glory of Jesus to others. I want every person who knows me to know how much I love Jesus. I want it to be contaigous to my children and to those around me. I want to "catch" it when other people are experiencing a fresh "God bug". I want God to constantly stretch me into a greater understanding of who He is. I know where He's taken me, and I don't want to go back! I'm so excited to see what He still wants to teach me! My heart is open to learn!
My thoughts may seem kind of scattered today. I have so many things rolling around in my head that I'd like to write about, but time just doesn't allow them all to come out right now. Because of that, I fear that they are all inter-mixed and coming out as such, but God is doing a new thing! Praise Him for what He continues to teach me!
If you don't yet know this Jesus personally, let me tell you, He IS real and He loves you more than you could ever imagine. No matter where you've been or what you've done. He forgives and wants to bring joy and peace into your life. Just call out to Him. The Bible says when we draw near to Him, He draws near to us. I'm sure there will be more random thoughts to come. Blessings on you today!
As I finished my last day of my Bible study called "Believing God", this thought hit me today in a deeper way. What we believe is what makes us who we are and how we live. It is what prioritizes our time and our energy. The things that really matter to us are what we spend our life doing. I find myself checking, what is it that REALLY matters to you, Terri??? Is it the same things that matter to God??
As a part of this Bible study, we have been asked to look back over our entire life and remember "GodStops", or places where God made Himself known to us, even before we knew Christ. As time goes on, I'd like to share some details of what I discovered in my own life, but I'm not sure I'm ready for that just yet. Looking back over the past 3-4 years, however, especially since we've moved to Montana, I've really been able to see why God has allowed some of the things in my life that He has. Our move to Montana is one of them.
I've really been trying to be purposeful about knowing what I believe and living that out in my life, especially lately. I don't want to live a life of mediocrity because Jesus called me to much more than that. He called me to an abundanat life of believing Him. (Which I continue to learn what this entails on a daily basis, with many failures, I might add!) I want my passion for Jesus to only increase daily! My prayer is that what I believe really comes out in who I am and how I live my life -- not for my glory, but only to show the glory of Jesus to others. I want every person who knows me to know how much I love Jesus. I want it to be contaigous to my children and to those around me. I want to "catch" it when other people are experiencing a fresh "God bug". I want God to constantly stretch me into a greater understanding of who He is. I know where He's taken me, and I don't want to go back! I'm so excited to see what He still wants to teach me! My heart is open to learn!
My thoughts may seem kind of scattered today. I have so many things rolling around in my head that I'd like to write about, but time just doesn't allow them all to come out right now. Because of that, I fear that they are all inter-mixed and coming out as such, but God is doing a new thing! Praise Him for what He continues to teach me!
If you don't yet know this Jesus personally, let me tell you, He IS real and He loves you more than you could ever imagine. No matter where you've been or what you've done. He forgives and wants to bring joy and peace into your life. Just call out to Him. The Bible says when we draw near to Him, He draws near to us. I'm sure there will be more random thoughts to come. Blessings on you today!
Friday, April 07, 2006
THE ONLY PANCAKES WE EVER MAKE!
This recipe came from my friend, Jen. I've been typing up a cookbook we are putting together for our last night of our Bible study, and thought I'd share this recipe with you as well. My kids won't let me make any others any more, and they're healthy!
WHOLE WHEAT BUTTERMILK PANCAKES
¾ cup flour
¾ cup wheat flour
3 Tbsp. Sugar
1-1/2 tsp. Baking powder
½ tsp. Baking soda
½ tsp. Salt
1-1/2 cup buttermilk (Make your own: 1 Tbsp. Lemon juice mixed in with reg. Milk. Let set a couple minutes)
1 Tbsp. Vegetable oil
1 lg. Egg
1 lg. Egg white
Combine flours, sugar, baking powder, soda and salt in lg. bowl, stirring with whisk. Combine buttermilk, oil, egg and egg white, stirring with whisk. Add to flour mixture, stirring just until moist. Pour onto heated griddle and enjoy!
This recipe came from my friend, Jen. I've been typing up a cookbook we are putting together for our last night of our Bible study, and thought I'd share this recipe with you as well. My kids won't let me make any others any more, and they're healthy!
WHOLE WHEAT BUTTERMILK PANCAKES
¾ cup flour
¾ cup wheat flour
3 Tbsp. Sugar
1-1/2 tsp. Baking powder
½ tsp. Baking soda
½ tsp. Salt
1-1/2 cup buttermilk (Make your own: 1 Tbsp. Lemon juice mixed in with reg. Milk. Let set a couple minutes)
1 Tbsp. Vegetable oil
1 lg. Egg
1 lg. Egg white
Combine flours, sugar, baking powder, soda and salt in lg. bowl, stirring with whisk. Combine buttermilk, oil, egg and egg white, stirring with whisk. Add to flour mixture, stirring just until moist. Pour onto heated griddle and enjoy!
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
PAINTED TOAST
We went to Myah's friends birthday party yesterday and one of the activities was painting toast. They had so much fun doing this that I promised Myah we would do it again today. Basically, you give them a slice of bread. You make paint by mixing a little food coloring with some milk. Let them paint away (tell them to be gentle!) and then either put them under the broiler or in a toaster oven for a few minutes. Another option is to use cookie cutters and make fun shapes! Because this party was a tea party, and all the food was "little" they used small flower-shaped cut-outs! You can also put little sprinkles on them before toasting. Fun activity and it isn't a lot of work or mess! And they're edible!
We went to Myah's friends birthday party yesterday and one of the activities was painting toast. They had so much fun doing this that I promised Myah we would do it again today. Basically, you give them a slice of bread. You make paint by mixing a little food coloring with some milk. Let them paint away (tell them to be gentle!) and then either put them under the broiler or in a toaster oven for a few minutes. Another option is to use cookie cutters and make fun shapes! Because this party was a tea party, and all the food was "little" they used small flower-shaped cut-outs! You can also put little sprinkles on them before toasting. Fun activity and it isn't a lot of work or mess! And they're edible!
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
JOINING THE LITTLE HOUSE BAND WAGON
I guess we're finally to that stage. It seems like every friend we have with young kids either already has read or are currently reading through the Little House series. I recently purchased the set from e-bay and we started reading "Little House in the Big Woods" yesterday. I use to have the set when I was young, but over the years and the moves, I have no idea where they ended up. We are already on chapter 4 and Myah asks at least 4 times a day for me to read to her. Joel isn't quite as into it, but we have taken the advice from some good friends who have a really good reading habit going with their kids. We often read before naps, etc., but our main story time is before bed. I let Joel pick his own book of interest out and read that to him first, then he has the option to sit and listen or go to bed. So far, he has chosen to sit and listen. :) Kiana gets her own age-appropriate books as well, but at this age, I don't make her listen to Little House. So far, we are enjoying this immensely!
I guess we're finally to that stage. It seems like every friend we have with young kids either already has read or are currently reading through the Little House series. I recently purchased the set from e-bay and we started reading "Little House in the Big Woods" yesterday. I use to have the set when I was young, but over the years and the moves, I have no idea where they ended up. We are already on chapter 4 and Myah asks at least 4 times a day for me to read to her. Joel isn't quite as into it, but we have taken the advice from some good friends who have a really good reading habit going with their kids. We often read before naps, etc., but our main story time is before bed. I let Joel pick his own book of interest out and read that to him first, then he has the option to sit and listen or go to bed. So far, he has chosen to sit and listen. :) Kiana gets her own age-appropriate books as well, but at this age, I don't make her listen to Little House. So far, we are enjoying this immensely!
Monday, April 03, 2006
GONE FISHING!
I must confess I gave a face when Evan's buddy called him up to go fishing last Saturday. Why am I so selfish??? My poor guy works so hard all week and could stand a break now and then to go do something he enjoys. Evan told him yes, but like always, I sort of hold it against him for a few days until he goes, fighting my flesh and knowing that he really does deserve a day out.
I often think of a comment Debi Pearl makes about a similar thing. She says we should work hard during the week (ie: mow the lawn, do HIS chores for him) just to free him up to be able to spend some time fishing or having free time to himself on Saturday. Ouch! That's a hard one for me to chew on! It all boils down to my selfishness, which God is continuing to work on in me.
Evan had a wonderful time with 2 guys. One of which he is trying to be a witness to, and the other one is one of his biggest supports in his Christian walk. I imagine that God was up to something! :) They all caught lots of fish, including many nice ones!
Keep teaching me, Lord!
I must confess I gave a face when Evan's buddy called him up to go fishing last Saturday. Why am I so selfish??? My poor guy works so hard all week and could stand a break now and then to go do something he enjoys. Evan told him yes, but like always, I sort of hold it against him for a few days until he goes, fighting my flesh and knowing that he really does deserve a day out.
I often think of a comment Debi Pearl makes about a similar thing. She says we should work hard during the week (ie: mow the lawn, do HIS chores for him) just to free him up to be able to spend some time fishing or having free time to himself on Saturday. Ouch! That's a hard one for me to chew on! It all boils down to my selfishness, which God is continuing to work on in me.
Evan had a wonderful time with 2 guys. One of which he is trying to be a witness to, and the other one is one of his biggest supports in his Christian walk. I imagine that God was up to something! :) They all caught lots of fish, including many nice ones!
Keep teaching me, Lord!
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