Big Sky Wanted

I'm so thankful to live in Iowa. It's been mentioned before but I'll say it again - God was so kind to bring us here {almost} 6 years ago. The seasons change, there's enough city vs. country, and I am content as could be. We live just outside of the Des Moines metro in a small suburban township - all my neighbors are either retired or my parents age. It's quiet. Lawns are kept, back yard gardens are tended, and people keep to themselves but actually do care about their neighbors. It's not uncommon for me to see one neighbor getting another neighbors mail, or pulling their trash bins back to the house. Right at this minute I'm watching two neighbor men have a conversation... in MY front yard. And it's normal. Come winter it's normal to see people shoveling driveways not their own. We've been the recipient of that several times!

All this to say I genuinely feel content, I'm not the personality to see places in books and magazines and think "man, I have GOT to go there." Until... this weekend. And now that I've seen the pictures and they've seared into my brain, I can't get the Big Sky out of my mind. I blame this book: "Big Sky Cooking" by Meredith Brokaw.

I had an hour to myself this weekend so I took a whirl through our library. Without fail I end up in the cookbook aisle and feel overwhelmed and yet weirdly excited at all of the options! The title caught my eye and one glance inside won me over.

Montana. This cabin. The rocking chairs. The plains behind it! That old rickety fence. Isn't that beautiful?
I could picture myself, coffee in hand, early in the morning watching the wild animals run through the hillside. It's fun to dream isn't it?

And then there was this picture. I'm not a cowgirl, though I do enjoy a horseback ride. But look at those mountains! Easily, I could become a cowgirl if it included strolls through these meadows with those mountains in the back drop.

I think I have Big Sky fever. 
The recipes in here are even better. It covers everything from simple recipes like Jalapeno Corn bread and pork tenderloin to the natives of that land, Chokecherry Jelly and Elk Pepper Steaks. I could go for some Elk!

I'm really looking forward to reading every single page. Aside from beautiful pictures and yummy recipes this cookbook also has personal reflections of the people living there, and the sweet story of how Tom and Meredith Brokaw made their way to Montana to live. You might recognize the name Tom Brokaw from the evening news.

Big Sky.
Ah, it just sounds wonderful doesn't it?

I'm also going to recommend two more cookbooks I found while at the library. Think Big Sky, but move south to Oklahoma for the first one. Yep, Miss Ree. :)

This isn't a new one by any means but I haven't read it yet. Sure enough it's full of great ideas and delicious recipes. And of course... amazing pictures of their cattle ranch under the Oklahoma sky. It is not helping with my Big Sky fever ;)

And the last one for today - she writes from under a sky obviously... only, not one I'm particularly fond of. Jessica Seinfeld's second cookbook is just as creative and cute as her first. There are a ton of good ideas for yummy ways to make healthy foods! This NYC momma has great quick ideas!

So there you have it. My weekend reading pile.
What are you dreaming about today? And, if you've ever been to Montana or Oklahoma - what did you love the most? Big Sky wanted!!

Shocked & Amazed

{Gasp!}
Look at me all sitting down and blogging and stuff.

And, did you notice the new look? I've been finding moments here and there and thought it might be time for a little makeover, blog style. :) Now, to update that family picture and we'll be golden. But who has time for that right now? My darling third born daughter - you are loved. You will someday be represented. Here's a Christmas picture in the meantime.

Hi friends. Oh how life has changed now that we've added this third child. It's beautiful and messy and busy and wonderful all rolled into one. It's taken me til just about right now (almost 9 months) to feel like my head is above water, and I'm thankful to be getting there. Life is full for us right now between ministry things and having a child in school type of things to day to day life and relationships in general. FULL. To be honest some moments (days) have not been pretty for me - there has been a lot of ugly hard times, learning curves and just flat out failures. Those times have reminded me time and again how beautiful GRACE and forgiveness are! Thank you Lord for that! Also, thank you for elastic waistband pants, chocolate and coffee. Juuuust keeping it real, folks. ;)

We are doing well. Ava is still enjoying kindergarten, learning to read, and becoming a little writer. She has lost her first tooth and seems to be growing by the minute. I still can't believe she's 6!
August keeps me busy during the day with all things dress up, pretend, and being as sweet as sugar. I'm so thankful for her constant hugs - she seems to have the gift of empathy and tenderness. :) Jane is 8 months old and just about as darling as they come. She's at the pre-crawling, pushing herself back stage. So cute! She's a smiley momma's girl and I'm eating every moment up. My heart is in denial that June 6 and that first birthday is just peeking around the corner! What is it about the knowing it's your LAST baby that just tears at you?!!?

Some exciting things are coming down the pike for us as we prepare for the spring and summer. We've got some family trips and ministry things going on that we are pumped about. Including ME getting to sit through a real-live Jen Wilkin workshop at The Gospel Coalition. Wooooooot! Not to mention being in FLORIDA. The countdown is on! But right now we are smack dab in the middle of mundane every day. You know what I mean? School, kids, weekly routine, meals, homework, repeat. Not that it's a bad thing - just, feeling a little monotonous right now. Also feeling cold. Very cold. Maybe that makes the mundane feel more heavy?

I can't close a post down without sharing what I'm reading - and, thank you those of you who have mentioned missing me. Blesses my heart! And I love, LOVE giving these recommendations to you. Words are so important. God's word is MOST important, but I'm so thankful for teachers and writers who can write to help us learn too.

Mom Enough.

Remember Rachel Jankovic from "Loving the Little Years"? She's starts this one off and while I'm only on chapter two - it's fantastically encouraging! Gospel truth for the heart of moms! Dig in!


Miserly Moms.

LOTS of good ideas for those of you looking for ways to stretch your dollars.


Life Together.

Oh man. If you need an excellent reminder about Christian community together... this is it.

And, this little nugget below. I've been working on this (tiny) book for almost a year! Ha! But, it's so good and meaty. A little bit of a heavy, wordy, read - but great.
The Hospitality Commands.

Blessings to you, friends. Hoping to catch up soon! 

Happy Homemaker Monday

 

 As I look outside my window:::
Sunshine is trying to break through an overcast sky. Lots of birds out today and it makes me think that maybe spring really is coming!


Right now I am:::
Finished my morning bible reading and gearing up to do a quick tidy! HUBBY IS FLYING HOME TODAY! He's been gone all week and we are eager to have him home.

Thinking and pondering:::
It's our annual week of prayer here (at our church) and I'm trying to think of ways to really be involved this time around. Would love to get my kids involved.

On my bedside table:::
My One year Bible

Daughters in Danger by Elayne Bennett

An "In Touch" magazine
Treasuring Christ when your hands are full by Gloria Furman

On my tv tonight:::
I've been watching through "The Paradise" on Netflix. I'm on episode 5! Though, not sure now that hubby will be home if I'll get any further tonight.


Listening to:::
My  2 year old talking to her princess puzzle :)

On the menu for this week:::

Monday - Garlic chicken & Potatoes (trying those land o' lakes saute things) -taking a meal to a new mom!
Tuesday - Crock pot ranch pork chops & rice
Wednesday -
Thursday - Oven Fajitas
Friday - Baked Potato Soup & rolls
Saturday - Cincinnati Chili over spaghetti
Sunday -  Left overs.

On my to do list:::
General tidy of the main level

Unload dishwasher and reload
Start some laundry
Paint a dresser for the girls shared room

Happening this week:::
Monday - 5 year old's ballet class, meal for a new mom, visit friend in hospital who had twins!
Tuesday - Taking a family night at home.
Wednesday - Youth ministry
Thursday -  Cell group #2
Friday - Daddy's day off, get some projects done around the house.
Saturday - Plan for Easter

What I am creating:::
Painting some old ugly dressers white, which is taking forever.
Need to whip up some Easter decor for the house
Working on the nursery for baby 3!
 
My simple pleasure:::
My old industrial wire basket here beside me filled with all good books.

Homemaking tips:::
Oh man, seems homemaking has been hit and miss around here lately. I'm learning to reuse, I suppose. When I used up all our dishwashing packets I kept the bucket to dump the new kind in. Keeps under the sink organized and tidy.


Looking around the house:::
Some small tasks to do and my dining room floor could use a good dust mop run over.
 
From the camera:::

Loving this book! Gospel meditations for busy moms is such a great way to saying it!

 
Prayer List:::
Music pastor and his wife as they welcome identical TWIN girls!
Remainder of my own pregnancy, 8 weeks. Eeek.
Hubbys final flight home today!

Bible verse, Devotional:::Really appreciated Gloria's thoughts this morning:

"As mothers we need to train ourselves to focus on the things they are unseen and eternal (2 Cor. 4:18). As we struggle to maintain this perspective and even as we fail to struggle, relenting to the temptation toward apathy, we must look to God's word and believe it, even when we can't feel it." 

Trinkets & Treasures: A Mom's pondering...

I'm on my own this week while my husband enjoys a conference in NYC. He had invited me to join him, but I'm thinking that walking the big city at 31 weeks pregnant is not my cup of tea. Not at all actually. So I've got time this week. I've also got lists of things to do...but, that's another issue. {grin}

The last few days I've been mesmerized with my little girls, and let me explain. There is something fascinating about listening and watching little girls play - it almost always involves some sort of treasure or trinket. In my girls case it's jewelry boxes, small polished stones, shells from the beach, occasionally one of my necklaces, dress up shoes and small stuffed animals. Their treasures. My first born especially seems to have a disposition to hoarding, we'll work on that later. Her bed is chock full of every kind of toy possible with just a slim snuggle in room for her own body. I remember being the same way when I was 5 - feeling like each and every treasure needed to be with me at all times.

My soon-to-be 3 year old maybe displays her love of trinkets and treasures the best. She wears them all the time. If you know us at all or follow any of the pictures I share you will almost always see her in a dress up dress loaded down with necklaces and bracelets and the works. This morning is no different. Here is how I found her as I sat down to write:

 

Her sisters church dress and her special blankey as a cape. :) 

Trinkets and Treasures and all the things childhood is made of. We learn early that some things are just more special and worth taking care of. In the last few days as I watch them play and pretend it just draws me in but also convicts me. What am I treasuring now?  Am I still chasing after silly things like a 2 and 5 year old - all that glitters? Over our spring break I was given two beautiful pitchers and I suppose they are kind of treasures to me. I've started collecting them and right now they are kinda my favorite. I love the details, the history (one was made in the 1800's) and how they fit in with my other white pitchers. :)

But as sentimental and lovely as they are, they can't be my ultimate treasure. And maybe this is where the Lord has been hammering on my heart lately - LAY IT DOWN. The things and people I cling to who are taking the place of where only ONE should be. 

This morning I read this sentence -

"It doesn't matter where you are from or what your circumstances are; the greatest reality a mother can appreciate and rest in is the work that Jesus has done on the cross on 

our behalf." 

-Gloria Furman, "Treasuring Christ when your hands are full"

And that is our treasure as mothers, as women, as people who believe - Christs work on the cross. Looking back over the last few weeks of my life it is so evident that I value and elevate all these other trinkets above the true and lasting treasure of that sacrifice. Thanks be to God for his grace and mercy in loving me, pursuing me, and not getting annoyed with my overwhelmed - distracted self. 

Trinkets & Treasures - doing a lot of mom pondering today. Funny how watching our children can sometimes be such a mirror into our own lives.

A little creativity... and the stack of books.

Last week my husband, along with our entire pastoral staff from church, went to Moody Founders week in Chicago. They always look forward to that time of great preaching, worship, and just getting away to refresh. Unfortuneately for my husband - he ended up being sick the entire trip :/ But for the events he did get to join in on, he had a great time. With him being gone for 5 days I had my evenings free and lots of "free" time to finish up some projects I had lying around. Tho, once I saw all the projects I knew I should just pick one and do it really well - the energy still isn't 100%, and my two girls won't have momma working on projects all the time. :) So, I decided to finish my massive frame project. In December my parents drove out from Ohio and left this HUGE framed mirror with me. It was a sturdy frame but the glass wasn't in great shape. So I set to work removing the mirror, cleaning up the wood, and I'm thrilled with the results.

 I painted it white - it was honey oak colored, distressed it, hung some jute cord and now I just (continue) to wait on Shutterfly to deliver my pictures I ordered... in early January :( But for now some oldie family pics work just fine! And with the nine bajillion babies being born in our church - happy to hang some pics of our new friends, too.
A simple, easy, and kinda quick project that I was able to stay inside to finish. It's a lovely addition to our front room and goes great with our newly finished buffet. Now we wait for warmer temps to finish the rest of the DIY's I have lying around. Ha!

As most readers know, I really enjoy a good book that I can learn something from. My stack for 2014 has already grown a leeetle out of control, but I'm excited to crack open each book. My read through the bible chronologically is going well - even though I'm still on January 18th, bah! But I'm so enjoying going through Genesis and the early people of the faith. Hoping to catch up on my 100 pages that I'm behind in the next few days during nap time.

This weekend a package arrived on the porch from Nelson books - it was "Daughters in Danger" by Elayne Bennett. A few weeks back I had applied to be a book blogger for the program at Booksneeze.com. If you aren't familiar - you apply, check the book types you enjoy, and once you read the (Free, shipped to you) book you do a quick write up on your blog. I thought I had chosen a smaller book, but nope, this 295 page book in pink is waiting for me at some point... 

I've never heard of the author and from what I can tell it's not written from a biblical point of view. But I'm interested in reading and reviewing. Hopefully in a few weeks I'll have a review up. Hopefully. 

What kinds of things are you reading right now? 

Before I end this today I just wanted to share my heart for a minute. 

The Lord has brought such amazing women into my life that I just need to give thanks for today. Lastnight I met with our pastor and staff wives for a time of prayer and encouragement. We try to meet every month but it doesn't always happen. I am so thankful for those nights to gather together and share what the Lord has laid on our hearts. There are usually tears, hot coffee, and good time spent going before the throne of Grace together. I love the time. I need the time. As women, I think we so often feel like what we are going through or working on is unique to only us - only to find out, we are just struggling side by side. It's neat to sit and listen and watch as women share victories and pains and weaknesses and realize the the Lord truly is at work not only in our individual lives...but in our church. I'm blessed to listen to the older wives that have already gone down the road I'm on - and share stories of hope and encouragement. I'm blessed to hear the younger ones be vulnerable and remind me to keep tender. My cup was full to brimming last night as we prayed and cried and encouraged each other on in this ministry life. It reminds me that not everyone has this in their lives and that is a difficult place to be, though God does give us Grace to make it through even then. Rejoicing for these ladies of faith who challenge me every time, and I'm praying for those of you who don't have a circle to pray with. 

Happy Tuesday! 

Some things...

This poor ol' desktop computer is on it's last leg (again) I believe. Let's see if we can make it through this little post... a technological miracle :) Happy Midweek to you wherever you are! Here in Iowa it's snowing and sunshiney at the same time. Bizarre. The weather here is not only unpredictable, but, just strange.

poor christmas tree.. one day we will burn you. :) 

But we can't and won't complain today as we snuggle in for a warm day with the fireplace on. I have been missing this whole blogging thing lately, but the busy days and tired nights haven't lended any extra time. And all the busy moms say amen. :) Things are going well here in our home as we prep for the end of January {already?!}and gear up for a VERY busy Spring time. Not to mention the last few months before this new baby arrives. {gulp}

Some bullet point updates will work best, shall we?

- Appliances. Who needs them!? Ok, maybe us. I think we are just a few short months away from needing to replace our above the stove microwave and our gas oven. They look to be the original pieces that came with this house. Blah. Homeownership. Let's also tag on mattresses... who knew they went bad?! I read somewhere that after 7 to 8 years a mattress is officially "no good". Well, that seems to be a fitting category for our hunk o' springs. I'm dreaming of a new mattress... or a new back and set of hips. Perhaps the mattress would be easier to replace. :) Especially were it THIS mattress. The camp we stay at a few times during the year has these mattress on their guest beds and I LOVE THEM. Cushy, soft, surrounds you, type of deal. It's a wee bit out of our range, but, I can pretend!

Speaking of hips.
- I'm in my 21st week of pregnancy already. Had an appointment yesterday and the heartrate was right at 157, the lowest we've ever heard. Any guesses on gender? My husband is CONVINCED its a third girl. I haven't a clue. Our ultrasound is in two weeks and we are still deciding if we'll find out or not. The pregnancy is going smoothly and besides being tired alllll the time and some weird ligament pain, all is well. My 5 year old has caught onto some of my pregnancy eating habits and is now using them against me. Just today she said, "Mommy, we should go to Jimmy Johns for lunch, I know how much you like it there." BUSTED. And yes we did go and the Vito & cherry coke is always, always, worth it :) Aside from the much desired Vito, I'm all about avocados, oranges and eggs {with the yolks warm and runny}. SALT SALT SALT sounds good to me all the time. This is strange. I still don't have much to show in the way of a baby belly, but I do feel kicks finally and the other night one kick was hard enough to see on the outside. I am so thankful to be carrying this baby and can't believe we are half way done.

-We have another potty trained girl! I got tired of changing poopy 2 1/2 year old diapers so I threw her in big girl panties and we went with it. She caught on immediately and I'm amazed. Why didn't I do this sooner?! She's pretty proud of herself and we are thankful for another "easy" potty training scenario. Tho... any advice on getting her to do  #2 is welcome. She is still scared on that one. Bah!

- The house post-Christmas decor is looking a little sad. As I walked through our sitting room this morning I realized, we have got to pull this place together. It's a mad mix of laundry, misc toys, and remaining "christmas" items that need put away. So many plans, so little time...and energy.

- I'm reading some pretty great books right now and love the variety of them.
One of our cell groups is going through this book by Sinclair Ferguson & I'm into it already.

Amazon says this about it:

"'Christian doctrine matters for Christian living.' This is 'one of the most important growth points of the Christian life', writes Sinclair B. Ferguson. From this starting point, The Christian Life expounds such key biblical themes as grace, faith, repentance, new birth and assurance with clarity and contagious enthusiasm. 'Chrisitan doctrines are life-shaping', explains the author, because 'they show us the God we worship'."

I love the depth, but while making it easy to understand. We have some new believers in our group and it's so awesome to hear their take aways and moments of learning. So good!

I also just purchased this little book as it was recommended in another book, "Letters to Pastors Wives" that I'm loving every day!

My heart is more and more sensitive and eager and to show hospitality and the description along with the recommendation sold me! Having new neighbors and being involved as a staff wife at church affords me a lot of opportunities. :) 

"Hospitality may well be the best means we have to promote close, brotherly love--especially in churches where people don't know each other beyond Sunday-morning-only greetings.

Hospitality is also an effective tool for evangelism. Showing Christ's love to others in a home environment may be the only means Christians have to reach their neighbors for Christ."

Last, THIS bible. I've always wanted to read through chronologically but never have. Found this super cheap on Amazon and have been so enjoying the break up of readings each morning. :)

It's Wednesday, which means it's student ministries night. Every week I love to see what the Lord is doing with our middle school and high school students - we have seen some incredible things happen and tonight should be no different. Hoping things in your world are going well and you continue to see the Lord working on your heart and changing your life. Have a good one! 

The month of celebration ends (and a GIVEAWAY!)

Me, being the coffee bar afficianado, at our youth Christmas party

Christmas Day has come and gone.

Cookies were swapped.

We have a 5 year old now.

I'm 17ish weeks along in this pregnancy.

Friends got married this weekend and we got to play a part.

Tonight is New Years Eve.

It has been a crazy, wonderful, busy, intense, blessed, season of Holidays for us. 

To be honest with you - our reality is that all this crazy, blessed, fullness just continues on. We have a youth retreat this weekend, I'm starting up our Mom's playgroup at church again, Hubs will be traveling for conferences and appointments, and life goes on. I guess I could look at life as ONE BIG FAT CELEBRATION all the time :) Yea, I'll do that. 

Even during the busy, God has been good in allowing me some time in His word {even when I'm lazy and not making it a priority...to my shame} and a few extra minutes to read through some encouraging and helpful books. I always want to be a woman that is learning and growing - it's important to not get stagnant. 

To kick off a NEW year and another 12 months to learn and grow - I'm doing a different type of giveaway today and I hope you'll join in the fun. I have chosen three books that I think are read worthy and if you are chosen the winner you choose the one you want! All you need to do is leave a comment stating which book you'd like to WIN and why. Simple, eh? I'll choose the winner this weekend - so you have 3 days to enter. If you aren't familiar with how to comment, or, aren't a blogger yourself - just be sure to at least leave your name and email on your comment so I can connect with you. 

Here are the options....{drumroll}....

"Letters to Pastors Wives" Edited by Catherine J. Stewart

This is a book of compiled letters from women who have "gone before" if you will. Here is what Amazon says about it: 

"There is no right 'type' of pastors' wife, only the one whose heart is wholly set on serving Christ."

Pastors' wives encounter special challenges as well as special joys. These letters from the seasoned wives of seasoned pastors provide empathy, wise counsel, and encouragement on a wide range of topics, including:

Campus Ministry, Church Conflict, Friendship, Hospitality, Ministry Abroad, Pastors' Kids, Priorities, Support for Your Husband, and more."

Some of the contributors were: Margy Tripp, Noelle Wilkerson, Pam Schweitzer and Sarah Ascol.

I am LOVING this encouraging and challenging book in my own quiet moments while my kids are asleep. I just finished a chapter about humility and it was convicting to the CORE - compiled with scripture and life stories, it's just exactly my type of reading. If you are a current pastors wife, hope to be one, or even just a ministry leaders helper - you would enjoy this book. 

"Glimpses of Grace" by Gloria Furman

"Sometimes life feels a lot like a burden—day-in and day-out its the same chores and tasks, challenges and discouragements, anxieties and responsibilities. Dust bunnies show up on the stairwell, social commitments clutter the calendar, and our families demand daily attention and care. At times, just catching our breath seems like an impossible feat.

So where is God in all of this? Does he care about the way we unload the dishwasher or balance the budget? Do the little things like changing diapers or cooking meals make a difference? And how can we use our spheres of influence for God’s glory and our joy?

Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a working woman splitting time between the office and home, Gloria Furman—writer, pastor’s wife, cross-cultural worker, and mom—encourages us to see the reality of God’s grace in all of life, especially those areas that often appear to be boring and unimportant. Using personal examples and insightful stories, her richly theological reflections help us experience the gospel’s extraordinary power to transform our ordinary lives."

This book was given to me last year and it's on my top 10 list now! Gloria writes from experience and with a true grasp on the Gospel. I loved her transparency and the ideas she gave on really making the Gospel a priority in her day. 

And, just for fun - because I think we need that - especially as we raise chidren, live hard lives, and just face this broken world. :) 

"Princess Petunia's Sweet Apple Pie" by Big Idea and Karen Poth

I have TWO big "girl" Veggie tale fans in our home! They especially love Petunia - and I was glad to find these early reader type books. This cute book is about being helpful, something our children can benefit from for sure! 

Use this to spend some quality time with your kiddos - or gift to the Veggie lover in your life. 

So there you have it! I'm excited to hear your thoughts and pick the winner this weekend! (Drawing will be done with Random.com) Don't forget to leave your comment! 

Fall Ya'll.

 

It's official, because I just purchased this "Autumn Walk" candle. I absolutely cannot WAIT to start burning this baby in our new place.  (Sigh) Autumn... welcome back.

Speaking of the new place, we are down to 4 days until we move in! I had my heart set on moving in this weekend, but it looks like Monday afternoon is the big day. We got to stop over yesterday and meet the family that is moving out - a leetle awkward, but overall, they were very friendly and I think it helped them to see who was getting their place. Their little boy joked that he didn't want us to paint "His room" pink with ballerinas. I made no promises. ;)

Last week I checked out another great cookbook from the local library, "Amish Friends Cookbook, Vol. 2" by Wanda Brunstetter. 

 

Oh yum. I've been on this Amish mode and just really enjoy the simplicity and comforting taste of all their recipes. This week we tried the recipe for Goulash, which was fantastic and tonight I'm making this one below, so I thought I'd share a recipe. :) It's a very fallish type meal, even though it will be in the 80's today. 

Chickenetti

6oz spaghetti, cooked

2 c chicken, cooked and diced

1 can cream of mushroom soup (I'm using cream o' potato)

2 c corn

1/2 c chicken broth

1/8 t celery salt

1 t salt

1/4 t pepper

3/4lb velveeta, shredded

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Mix all ingredients and put in a casserole dish. Bake covered 1 hour. 

*I really, REALLY, want to get away from the cream of whatever soups... it's my mission to whip up a batch of the healthy stuff once we move and settle. 

Seriously, does it get easier??! This will be perfect for our busy Thursday night. :) Apparently, this is a big favorite in the Duggar family, too. While I was searching for a good and delicious looking picture to share - all I could find was sweet little Josie sitting by the recipe. If it's good enough for the Duggars... it's good enough for me! 

Happy early weekend! Maybe the next time I blog will be from our new house?!

Reading List : September Edition

Before I get into listing endless book titles, let me brag a little about these two peaches. {squeee!} I love them. My girls are seriously so much fun lately. They are two and four and have personalities skyscraper high. My biggest is into making this weird growling voice all.the.time. It drives me completely bananas and I'm starting to think that's why she does it. Hmmmm.... but, I still get the sweetest cuddles post nap and I love it!
The shrimpy one is just all of the sudden hilarious {seriously, look at that hair!}. She does wild facial expressions and has started walking up to me any time in the day and saying, "Mom, what you doing?" with this eyes wide with excitement look. For some reason it makes me laugh every time! Ah, my babes, I love them. Through this whole transition they are adjusting so well & helping me keep my sanity. Some days are better then others, but, they are still so little.:) The clock is ticking - T minus 4 weeks to go!

So anyway - we spent the morning at the local library here, which my children love, and came home with bags full of books. Tho, I think I came home with  more this time ;) Here's what's on our reading piles for the next few weeks.

For the girls -Some Fall theme books :)

source for pics: Amazon.com

 ---> Please note: I do not use Kindle or Nook for my children's reading books. I just can't seem to find an image to share that doesn't have those notes attached to them. :)

And for Momma - a few of my best girl friends. ;)

I'm eager to pour through these and get some ideas for the last few weeks before we move. Now that it's slightly less hot in the evening, it's actually appealing to eat dinner again.

And, in prep for our Fall ladies bible study - I'm diving into this gem.

What are you reading these days? 

Keeping Sane.

It's been a rough couple of days and my pounding headache at 10:30am proves that. I'm tired and my kids seem to have endless energy {and naughtiness} and we seem to have no norm at this point. Hubs has had a busy weekend and week getting ready for our fall ministry kick off, we had a death in the family so there were funeral processions, etc. and I don't think the girls have been to bed before 10pm in over a week.

It's okay to admit when you feel like you have slipped beyond the end of your rope. I'm there, too. I admit it. And I praying and asking the Lord for strength for just one more day.

I know that our transition will not last forever.
I know that in these difficult days I'm being molded and changed.

During nap times I've been diving into books about female missionaries through the ages and gleaning such wisdom and strength from them and their testimonies of faith in the Lord. Noel Piper put out a great book called, "Faithful Women and their extraordinary God" which has really changed my whole concept of "comfort".

 

Oh what a spoiled housewife I can act like some days...when I forget my mission. And when for some reason I am living for COMFORT rather than living for GOD. 

Perhaps later when I have more then 5.89 seconds to myself I'll share a few of the other things I've been learning. God is faithful and I continue to see Him in new ways during this time. And to those sitting there today who, like me, are just trying to keep sane an hour at a time... I'm with ya. His strength is perfect, hang in there!

On the ol' pile of books

Well, I'm doing it again. Reading multiple books at one time... well, scattered times. But honestly, I'm feeling a little scattered so it's great for me. Some fiction here, diet book when I'm feeling good, bible study in the mornings. It works.

Here's whats on my book pile:

UnShaken by Francine Rivers

"A beautiful retelling of the story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz by award-winning author Francine Rivers. Readers will be encouraged by the truth that God will faithfully provide for His children even when all hope seems lost."

Glimpses of Grace by Gloria Furman

"Sometimes life feels a lot like a burden—day-in and day-out its the same chores and tasks, challenges and discouragements, anxieties and responsibilities. Dust bunnies show up on the stairwell, social commitments clutter the calendar, and our families demand daily attention and care. At times, just catching our breath seems like an impossible feat.

So where is God in all of this? Does he care about the way we unload the dishwasher or balance the budget? Do the little things like changing diapers or cooking meals make a difference? And how can we use our spheres of influence for God’s glory and our joy?

Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a working woman splitting time between the office and home, Gloria Furman—writer, pastor’s wife, cross-cultural worker, and mom—encourages us to see the reality of God’s grace in all of life, especially those areas that often appear to be boring and unimportant. Using personal examples and insightful stories, her richly theological reflections help us experience the gospel’s extraordinary power to transform our ordinary lives."

I used to be so organized by Glynnis Whitwer

"I Used to Be So Organized addresses the frustrations many women feel when they can't get a handle on their lives. They know, deep in their hearts, they should be able to manage things. After all, they used to be organized . . . ten or twenty years ago. But now, life seems to hand them one distraction and challenge after another, and ''helpful technology'' that just seem to add to the problem. Just when they think they have ''caught up,'' something else changes, and there s more to be done.

In this book, Glynnis Whitwer addresses the issue of organization based in this new reality of information overload, overwhelming choices, increased expectations and technology advances that won t slow down. This book contains twenty-three chapters, each short enough for a busy woman to read during a lunch break. Every aspect of life comes together in this one easy-to-read guide."

Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst

"Made to Crave is the missing link between a woman's desire to be healthy and the spiritual empowerment necessary to make that happen. The reality is we were made to crave. Craving isn't a bad thing. But we must realize God created us to crave more of him. Many of us have misplaced that craving by overindulging in physical pleasures instead of lasting spiritual satisfaction. If you are struggling with unhealthy eating habits, you can break the 'I'll start again Monday' cycle, and start feeling good about yourself today. Learn to stop beating yourself up over the numbers on the scale. Discover that your weight loss struggle isn't a curse but rather a blessing in the making, and replace justifications that lead to diet failure with empowering go-to scripts that lead to victory. You can reach your healthy weight goal -- and grow closer to God in the process. This is not a how-to book. This is not the latest and greatest dieting plan. This book is the necessary companion for you to use alongside whatever healthy lifestyle plan you choose. This is a book and Bible study to help you find the 'want to' in making healthy lifestyle choices."

So, yea... that's a few. Thanks to Amazon.com for the covers and descrips. I have a few other "fun" reads on my nook, but for the most part these get the most attention. I'm struggling through "I used to be so organized" - it's not my favorite. But it was FREE so I really want to finish it! 

And, lastly - I got this in the other day. Reading it as a potential youth bible study book. I dunno... Something makes me uncomfortable about the title, but at the same time I totally get it. God's word is never BLAH, nor is faith in God... but we get blah... treading new waters with this. 

What do you think?

What are you reading?

Glimpses of Grace

 

I have had one of those weeks where only today I'm sitting alone reflecting, in the cool breeze of the day, under a tree... recoiling at how bad my attitude has been, how quick my tongue and temper, and how absolutely unloving I've been. Been there? It all started on Mothers Day night - I let expectations get the better of me {that's all I'm sayin'}, and I should know better by now. Since that night I have felt sad and grumpy, irritable and just out of control. My lack of love for those around me also seeped into our home - laundry sat undone, dishes in the sink, every little thing left undone. My heart has been so hard and uncaring. The Lord has faithfully been chipping away at me and reminding me of truth. For this I am thankful. 

It's no coincidence that the book you see above was placed in my hands around midweek. :)

One quick read of the back cover and I was in tears. Because even though I SO desire to be the kind of wife and momma who is treasuring and teaching the gospel in my home... so often my intentions are left wanting. Relate? 

So I'm digging in. The intro alone has me nodding my head and seeing my NEED. I LOVE this portion that I read last night - 

"We live in God's world, we're made in God's image, and we interact with other people who have eternal souls. That makes theology vastly important and immensely life changing in our everyday mundane. Theology is for homemakers who need to know who God is, who they are, and what this mundane life is all about."

Sister, lemme tell you... the mundane was flat out getting under my SKIN this week and I needed this fresh air of a reminder to my soul. I'm not being paid to say these things or push for this book - but, if you have the spare bucks - it WILL be worth the read. I'm already encouraged and feeling motivated to treasure the gospel in my home and pass that on to my children. Who, by the way... are anything but mundane this week. :)

Chapters, faces, thoughts and Spaghetti.

How's that for a subject?! :) Yikes. Brave you for even daring to read on...

CHAPTERS:
Have you ever read something that strikes you right to the core? I have these moments from time to time and had one here recently while finishing the book, "The Furious Longing of God" by Brennan Manning. In lieu of  watching tv after dinner last night - I planted myself in the over sized chair in the corner of the living room, turned on the Nook and read. {Gasp!} The norm unwinding activity in our home... is not always that. At least, for me. I just like to turn the ol' gray matter OFF for awhile. But, as I continue to read and stick with my goal of a book a month - er... so... I'm finding how much I'm enjoying the learning. There is something to learn in every book. Of course that sounds elementary, but, you know what I mean. Plus, hubs had brewed a pot of coffee and nothing goes better with hot coffee then an oversized chair, good book, and an afghan blanket. :)

In this book, the chapter titled "fire" - I was gripped over this paragraph:

"Jesus Christ has irreparably changed the world. When preached purely, His word exalts, frightens, shocks, and forces us to reassess our whole life. The gospel breaks our train of thought, shatters our comfortable piety, and cracks open our capsule truths. The flashing spirit of Jesus Christ breaks new paths everywhere. His sentences stand like quivering swords of flame because He did not come to bring peace, but a revolution. The gospel is not a children's fairy tale, but rather a cutting-edge, rolling-thunder, convulsive earthquake in the world of the human spirit."

Man. That's MY God! While it sounds like I'm nuts... I'm so thankful for the cracks over the head I've taken here recently that have allowed mending...from the Holy Spirit. New growth and newfound truth. Jesus, He changed the world... and we can't NO WAY fall back into what we have been saved from. What a great reminder! 

FACES:

Our church, as seems to be the usual and wonderful... has welcomed in multiple baby faces in the last few weeks. 4 in one week, actually! It really is amazing to be a part of a church that is growing leaps and bounds, literally. One particular little gal, we'll call her "E" just takes my breath away. :) She is so tiny and delicate. Born at 4 pounds she really is HALF of what I'm used to giving birth to. So so sweet. It would be a lie to say holding this peanut I was totally capable of ignoring my baby itch... ;) The whole time I was holding "E" my girls {who look ginormous in comparison...} were going nuts. Augs kept holding out her hands and saying, "hold it, hold it". New faces. New blessings. 

THOUGHTS:

Speaking of blessings. These two - 4 and almost 2... how rich they make our lives. It is a never ending learning process. 

Recently, I find them playing like this. Snapped this pic for the 10 minutes it was happening. Busy playing and pretending separately but together :) I'm learning I can't force sisters, but can encourage their relationship. I long for the day when I hear them giggling together in play, dressed up in silly clothes, or pretending to be mommies. I never had a sister so I have NO clue what's in store here. I'm eager. 

August turns two in May and how that always kinda burns me on the inside, when a baby grows up. She is still so small and needs me so much. I'm thankful for that. We still rock and sing before bed and she still quite regularly finds her way smooshed in between daddy and I in the early morning hours - snug as a bug... content. I can't stop kissing her smooshy face and noticing every detail. She's precious and sweet and loves her momma. And my Ava, so smart at 4 years old. She challenges me at every turn and honestly I forget to hug and kiss on her because of the fight she puts up. She needs my kisses. I need to let loose and be silly. Preschool hasn't gone as smoothly as my brain had imagined, and that wears on me. She uses the words, "I know" all the time... and I can now understand why my mom HATED that when I said it. {sorry, mom!}

Ava is also wanting to talk a lot of about Jesus, His return, heaven and all things bible. Can I be honest and tell you how my knees shake when those conversations start?! "Am I doing this right?!" always comes to mind. Counseling with teens is a million hundred times less intimidating then trying to answer solid questions for a wondering 4 year old. Wow. Momma needs to STAY in the word and ready every moment. 

Oh, Joss & Main... your emails daily, multiple times in my inbox... 

I do so enjoy the beautiful things you sell. I do not so much enjoy your prices. However, I happen to enjoy a good thrift store find - and plan on recreating this very look somewhere in my home, come Spring time. :) How cute is that!?

SPAGHETTI:

I had the opportunity yesterday to take a meal to one of our new-baby-families from church. Baby boy is about as gorgeous as they come! {continue baby itch...} I spent the entire afternoon working on some from-scratch spaghetti sauce and meatballs. Nothing says comfort to me like a big pot of hot pasta and yummy sauce. While I do hope they enjoyed it... I can say, my family DEVOURED it. {yay for making a double batch!} Here's a no fail recipe!

Sauce -

29oz tomato puree

28 oz diced tomatoes, undrained

1 c water

6 oz tomato paste

1 T brown sugar

1 T dried minced onion

1 T dried minced garlic {or granulated}

1 T dried oregano

2 t salt 

Meatballs-

1 slice bread

2 T milk

1/2 c seasoned bread crumbs

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/2 t salt

1/2 t dried oregano

1/2 t pepper

1/2 lb EACH ground beef, veal and pork {I used 1lb beef and 1/2lb bulk sausage}

2 T olive oil

3/4lb bulk italian sausage

In dutch oven, combine first 9 ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, simmer, uncovered for 1 1/2 hours, stir occasionally. Meanwhile, place bread and milk in a large bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Add the crumbs, egg, salt, oregano and pepper. Crumble the meat over mixture; mix well. Shape into 1 1/2in balls.

Brown meatballs in oil in a large skillet. Add to sauce and simmer 20-30 minutes or til cooked through. Brown remaining sausage and add to sauce. Stir well. 

Happy Tuesday! 

Book Review - "The Hole in our Holiness"

Before I begin my review of this super great book - I need to say something, and I need every reader to hear it. My purpose in doing a review of this book is only to encourage and prompt any fellow believer in their growth and walk with the Lord, or, for anyone still seeking... to see the connection between holiness in your personal life and serving a holy God. It is in no way my intention to review Kevin DeYoung or to criticize or even argue his points for or against {although I can tell you I thoroughly enjoy his writing!}. After going through a difficult and trying time in ministry here recently,  my whole outlook on these "reviews" has changed. While I'm at it... let me clearly state the opinion that we MUST be careful when reading, reviewing and judging other peoples written word, especially as we don't always know the whole story or see the whole picture or even... {gasp} KNOW the author.

{slowly pushes soap box back into corner}

And now we begin :)

The whole premise for this book is "Why?". Why is it that holiness is no longer a chart topper need for believers? And when did it become almost taboo in some Christian circles to talk about or practice holiness? I so enjoyed DeYoung's opening description of one of the "why's" -

"Related to this first reason is the fear that a passion for holiness makes you some kind of weird holdover from a bygone era. As soon as you share your concern about swearing or about avoiding certain movies or about modesty or sexual purity or self-control or just plain godliness, people look at you like you have a moralistic dab of cream cheese on your face from the 1950's." 

Ha! How true I have found this to be even now, in 2013. DeYoung refers to our "culture of cool" among believers. How we are so good at making things "cool" and "appealing" and pushing the boundaries in our "freedoms". This comment was followed by -

"in an effort to be hip, many Christians have figured holiness has nothing to do with these things. They've willingly embraced Christian freedom but without an equal pursuit of Christian virtue." 

This one jabbed me and I think I said AMEN out loud. At least, I wrote it in all caps in my book :) How true is that?! I know even in my own life I can get wrapped up in my freedoms and forget the virtue. I forget that the ULTIMATE calling is to be a Christ imitator above all things. Love my Jesus and live like Him. Chapter one ended with the greatest sentences:

"There is a gap between our love for the gospel and our love for godliness. This must change. It's not pietism, legalism, or fundamentalism to take holiness seriously. It's the way of all those who have been called to a holy calling by a holy God."

And that, my friends... is the way to start a good book.

A big section of the book covers the topic of entertainment, and to be honest with you, I think it was my favorite part. As a believer something I am constantly wondering is "is this ok?" and feeling like the only one who is slightly uncomfortable. Like I'm all uptight. You know when you are a teen and dating and that question "how far is too far?" - well, that's where I have been so many times. Of course the answer is - how far from sin can we be?! And not how close to sin can we get. I appreciated DeYoung's view on entertainment and it's been a great help in how I view mine and other believers choices.

"I have to be careful (with movies in particular) that I don't assume my pangs of conscience mean everyone else tuned in is committing sin. But when my conscience is pricked I should not continue watching. A tender conscience is a terrible thing to waste."

"..I wonder if after most of our entertainment we could sincerely get down on our knees and say, "Thank you, God, for this good gift." Something to think about."

What an awesome and convicting thought. The shows where the wives bash and belittle their husbands - can I really be thankful for that? Usually not. Movies where the entire theme is based on sex outside of marriage {or even in marriage} -  is that helpful? Is it praiseworthy? Or, does it leave me longing for something harmful, unrealistic, or sinful? These are the thoughts I'm filtering with each thing I watch now. While I'm not here to judge or condemn anyone {I sin just as well as anyone...} I do think it's good to challenge each other. What are we filling our homes with?! What kinds of things stay on my brain long after the tv is turned off? What am I laughing at? It's so VITAL that we stop and think of the transformation that should be happening. Are we conforming or transforming to look like Christ?

"And we all with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." 2 Cor. 3:18

The book ends {and there are literally so many other awesome thoughts in the middle chapters} with such encouragement for us! I really enjoyed the chapter titled "Be Who you are" - in regards to being in union with Christ. What a gift!

"Union with Christ fundamentally and irrevocably changes our relationship to sin. Our old self has been crucified {Rom. 6:6}, and sin has no dominion over us {vs. 14}. 

"Sin may get in some good jabs. It may clean your clock once in a while. It may bring you to your knees. But if you are in Christ it will never knock you out."

Just like the audience in Romans chapter 6 the same promise is for us today!

"Their identity, and yours, has been altered. You play for a different team. You live in a different realm. You go by a different name. Therefore, do no let sin reign in your mortal body {vs. 12} Don't present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness. Instead, offer yourselves to God as slaves to righteousness, leading to sanctification {vs. 19}."

It's Saturday and the temptation to live for self is so present. I'm tired and a momma and wife and there are a million things to always get done. I've been so thankful for this excellent read which challenged me in many ways! Grace is wonderful and what a mighty, loving, God we serve.