I have heard it said that whatever occupies your mind the most becomes your god.
What occupies my mind the most?
Me. Myself. I.
What am I going to do today? What are my kids going to do? What am I going to wear? What am I going to buy for myself? How am I going to spend my time? What do my kids want and need?
I told you I could be a very selfish person. And, frankly, sometimes it's ugly to be convicted.
Over and over again in Scripture, we are told that the reason we are here in this life - the only reason God has given us breath - is to bring Him glory.
Glory - noun. - very great praise, honor, or distinction bestowed; renown
But, oh, how often do I give myself that honor that does not belong to me? How often do I look to myself and my own desires before looking to God? Too often do I think of myself before I stop to think of others; let alone God.
At church today, we sang a song that has been my favorite song since the very first time that I ever heard it. What I like the most about the song "Forever Reign," by Hillsong is that every single line of the song gives Jesus all of the glory.
He is Good.
He is Love.
He is Light.
He is Hope.
He is Peace.
He is True.
He is Joy.
He is Life.
He is More.
He is Lord.
He is Here.
He is God.
My heart will sing no other name. Jesus.
May what occupies my mind more and more be less of me and more of Him.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Discontentment
God has really been laying on my heart lately how easily I fall into the trap of being discontent. So I am going to concentrate 2011 on the art of being content.
Phillipians 4:11-12 says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
I believe the key word in these verses is "learned." In our society (and apparently in societies many years ago) there is always the pull to want something different than what we have.
I found these quotes by Kent Crockett on contentment:
* The grass is always greenest in the center of God’s will.
*A nicer golf course won't make you a better golfer. A nicer environment won't make you a better person.
*Has it ever occurred to you that the things you now have were once things you were trying to get?
* Contentment in life is not found in a perfect set of circumstances but by choosing to be happy in every situation.
The last quote is my favorite - being content is a choice. And it is my choice to make 2011 a year of purposefully learning contentment.
A website that I have recently fallen in love with is http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Ann Voskamp is such a beautiful writer, and I have told more than one person that her site has changed my life. ;) One thing I am doing to intentionally learn to be content this year is by following the 100 Day Calendar found here. More and more I want to have a grateful heart, for truly God has blessed me with so much. I am choosing to develop 3 new habits over the next 100 days.
It's hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
God has really been laying on my heart lately how easily I fall into the trap of being discontent. So I am going to concentrate 2011 on the art of being content.
Phillipians 4:11-12 says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
I believe the key word in these verses is "learned." In our society (and apparently in societies many years ago) there is always the pull to want something different than what we have.
I found these quotes by Kent Crockett on contentment:
* The grass is always greenest in the center of God’s will.
*A nicer golf course won't make you a better golfer. A nicer environment won't make you a better person.
*Has it ever occurred to you that the things you now have were once things you were trying to get?
* Contentment in life is not found in a perfect set of circumstances but by choosing to be happy in every situation.
The last quote is my favorite - being content is a choice. And it is my choice to make 2011 a year of purposefully learning contentment.
A website that I have recently fallen in love with is http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Ann Voskamp is such a beautiful writer, and I have told more than one person that her site has changed my life. ;) One thing I am doing to intentionally learn to be content this year is by following the 100 Day Calendar found here. More and more I want to have a grateful heart, for truly God has blessed me with so much. I am choosing to develop 3 new habits over the next 100 days.
It's hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Finding Peace
A few people have asked me what has changed in me lately. Asking because of the different focus of my blog. And I have an answer.
It's been a long time coming.
I have been distracted for quite some time now. Very distracted. I have been searching for pleasures in the world; pleasures that most would consider "good," but they have caused turmoil in my own heart. (We are all different, so what causes me strife could be quite different than what causes strife in your life.)
When the Holy Spirit first laid on my heart the desire to return home full-time with my kiddos, I cut Him off saying, "There's just no way. We can't afford it." Of course, what I was really saying is, "If I lose my salary, I will never get the things that I want." I can be a very selfish person. And the Holy Spirit can be very persistent.
Almost a year after I heard the Holy Spirit's first whisper, it was clear to me that His desires were to be greater and more important than my own. His desire for me to be home raising my children was much greater than my desire to move one step closer to my dream house. His desire for me to devote myself to Him was much greater than my desire to "get ahead" in this world.
So here I find myself on a tight budget, in our little home, and staying right where we are. And here is where I am finding unfathomable Peace. Isn't it true that spiritual blessings are often hidden in our greatest trials?
We don't have the money in our budget to eat out like we used to...and guess what?!?! I am finding it easier and easier (and even enjoyable) to involve the kiddos in cooking with me in our kitchen. Where I lacked patience before, I now ask Ella Beth and Landon to help me with preparing our meals.
I used to complain about our small house all. of. the. time. But now you know what I honestly do? If my mind starts drifting in that direction, I simply think about how many Haitians could live in our house. How many could comfortably live here and be thankful to be off of the streets of Port Au Prince and out of a tent.
I am immediately humbled. And I am thankful for the blessing of a small, but very nice and warm and safe home.
When I was working to meet my own desires, I had no peace. Sure, I had things to look forward to, but I was running in circles trying to fill a huge void with the wrong pieces. I was trying to find peace in things that have no Eternal significance - things that will perish. Silly, silly me.
So now I am simply thankful that things do not always go my way. My heart is filling up more and more each day with the Lord's sweet and amazing Peace. That is all that has changed in me. It is a simple change in my heart, but it is a great change in my life.
It's been a long time coming.
I have been distracted for quite some time now. Very distracted. I have been searching for pleasures in the world; pleasures that most would consider "good," but they have caused turmoil in my own heart. (We are all different, so what causes me strife could be quite different than what causes strife in your life.)
When the Holy Spirit first laid on my heart the desire to return home full-time with my kiddos, I cut Him off saying, "There's just no way. We can't afford it." Of course, what I was really saying is, "If I lose my salary, I will never get the things that I want." I can be a very selfish person. And the Holy Spirit can be very persistent.
Almost a year after I heard the Holy Spirit's first whisper, it was clear to me that His desires were to be greater and more important than my own. His desire for me to be home raising my children was much greater than my desire to move one step closer to my dream house. His desire for me to devote myself to Him was much greater than my desire to "get ahead" in this world.
So here I find myself on a tight budget, in our little home, and staying right where we are. And here is where I am finding unfathomable Peace. Isn't it true that spiritual blessings are often hidden in our greatest trials?
We don't have the money in our budget to eat out like we used to...and guess what?!?! I am finding it easier and easier (and even enjoyable) to involve the kiddos in cooking with me in our kitchen. Where I lacked patience before, I now ask Ella Beth and Landon to help me with preparing our meals.
I used to complain about our small house all. of. the. time. But now you know what I honestly do? If my mind starts drifting in that direction, I simply think about how many Haitians could live in our house. How many could comfortably live here and be thankful to be off of the streets of Port Au Prince and out of a tent.
When I was working to meet my own desires, I had no peace. Sure, I had things to look forward to, but I was running in circles trying to fill a huge void with the wrong pieces. I was trying to find peace in things that have no Eternal significance - things that will perish. Silly, silly me.
So now I am simply thankful that things do not always go my way. My heart is filling up more and more each day with the Lord's sweet and amazing Peace. That is all that has changed in me. It is a simple change in my heart, but it is a great change in my life.
Finding Peace
A few people have asked me what has changed in me lately. Asking because of the different focus of my blog. And I have an answer.
It's been a long time coming.
I have been distracted for quite some time now. Very distracted. I have been searching for pleasures in the world; pleasures that most would consider "good," but they have caused turmoil in my own heart. (We are all different, so what causes me strife could be quite different than what causes strife in your life.)
When the Holy Spirit first laid on my heart the desire to return home full-time with my kiddos, I cut Him off saying, "There's just no way. We can't afford it." Of course, what I was really saying is, "If I lose my salary, I will never get the things that I want." I can be a very selfish person. And the Holy Spirit can be very persistent.
Almost a year after I heard the Holy Spirit's first whisper, it was clear to me that His desires were to be greater and more important than my own. His desire for me to be home raising my children was much greater than my desire to move one step closer to my dream house. His desire for me to devote myself to Him was much greater than my desire to "get ahead" in this world.
So here I find myself on a tight budget, in our little home, and staying right where we are. And here is where I am finding unfathomable Peace. Isn't it true that spiritual blessings are often hidden in our greatest trials?
We don't have the money in our budget to eat out like we used to...and guess what?!?! I am finding it easier and easier (and even enjoyable) to involve the kiddos in cooking with me in our kitchen. Where I lacked patience before, I now ask Ella Beth and Landon to help me with preparing our meals.
I used to complain about our small house all. of. the. time. But now you know what I honestly do? If my mind starts drifting in that direction, I simply think about how many Haitians could live in our house. How many could comfortably live here and be thankful to be off of the streets of Port Au Prince and out of a tent.
I am immediately humbled. And I am thankful for the blessing of a small, but very nice and warm and safe home.
When I was working to meet my own desires, I had no peace. Sure, I had things to look forward to, but I was running in circles trying to fill a huge void with the wrong pieces. I was trying to find peace in things that have no Eternal significance - things that will perish. Silly, silly me.
So now I am simply thankful that things do not always go my way. My heart is filling up more and more each day with the Lord's sweet and amazing Peace. That is all that has changed in me. It is a simple change in my heart, but it is a great change in my life.
It's been a long time coming.
I have been distracted for quite some time now. Very distracted. I have been searching for pleasures in the world; pleasures that most would consider "good," but they have caused turmoil in my own heart. (We are all different, so what causes me strife could be quite different than what causes strife in your life.)
When the Holy Spirit first laid on my heart the desire to return home full-time with my kiddos, I cut Him off saying, "There's just no way. We can't afford it." Of course, what I was really saying is, "If I lose my salary, I will never get the things that I want." I can be a very selfish person. And the Holy Spirit can be very persistent.
Almost a year after I heard the Holy Spirit's first whisper, it was clear to me that His desires were to be greater and more important than my own. His desire for me to be home raising my children was much greater than my desire to move one step closer to my dream house. His desire for me to devote myself to Him was much greater than my desire to "get ahead" in this world.
So here I find myself on a tight budget, in our little home, and staying right where we are. And here is where I am finding unfathomable Peace. Isn't it true that spiritual blessings are often hidden in our greatest trials?
We don't have the money in our budget to eat out like we used to...and guess what?!?! I am finding it easier and easier (and even enjoyable) to involve the kiddos in cooking with me in our kitchen. Where I lacked patience before, I now ask Ella Beth and Landon to help me with preparing our meals.
I used to complain about our small house all. of. the. time. But now you know what I honestly do? If my mind starts drifting in that direction, I simply think about how many Haitians could live in our house. How many could comfortably live here and be thankful to be off of the streets of Port Au Prince and out of a tent.
When I was working to meet my own desires, I had no peace. Sure, I had things to look forward to, but I was running in circles trying to fill a huge void with the wrong pieces. I was trying to find peace in things that have no Eternal significance - things that will perish. Silly, silly me.
So now I am simply thankful that things do not always go my way. My heart is filling up more and more each day with the Lord's sweet and amazing Peace. That is all that has changed in me. It is a simple change in my heart, but it is a great change in my life.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
A Thankful Heart
My mom gave me a daily devotional for Christmas called, Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. Sarah has been a missionary throughout the world for years, and she has written these daily devotions as though Jesus is speaking directly to us. And, through His Word, He truly is.
The devotion a couple of days ago has really struck a chord with me. It corresponds to Habit #1 so perfectly, and it has helped to guide my "counting of blessings."
Jauary 17
Come to Me with a thankful heart, so that you can enjoy My Presence. This is the day that I have made. I want you to rejoice today, refusing to worry about tomorrow. Search for all that I have prepared for you, anticipating abundant blessings and accepting difficulties as they come. I can weave miracles into the most mundane day if you keep your focus on Me.
Come to Me with all your needs, knowing that My glorious riches are a more-than-adequate supply. Stay in continual communication with Me, so that you can live above your circumstances even while you are in the midst of them. Present your requests to Me with thanksgiving, and My Peace, wich surpasses all comprehension, will guard your heart and your mind.
I love how she said, "I [Jesus] can weave miracles into the most mundane day if you keep your focus on Me." Isn't that the truth?! If I keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus throughout my day, blessings seem to pop up everywhere. I am more aware of the sweetness of my children's kisses. I am more aware of those in my life who are true friends and true blessings. And I am more aware of the stillness in my heart that can only be from the Lord.
So I come to God daily with a thankful heart. By simply counting my blessings I see how "much" God has blessed me with. But even better than that, my heart is in awe that the most special blessing of all is God's presence in my life. What more is there to be thankful for? When my heart is satisfied by being in His Presence, it is free to live for Him - to give Him all the Glory.
Psalm 118:24; Philippians 4:19, 6-7
The devotion a couple of days ago has really struck a chord with me. It corresponds to Habit #1 so perfectly, and it has helped to guide my "counting of blessings."
Jauary 17
Come to Me with a thankful heart, so that you can enjoy My Presence. This is the day that I have made. I want you to rejoice today, refusing to worry about tomorrow. Search for all that I have prepared for you, anticipating abundant blessings and accepting difficulties as they come. I can weave miracles into the most mundane day if you keep your focus on Me.
Come to Me with all your needs, knowing that My glorious riches are a more-than-adequate supply. Stay in continual communication with Me, so that you can live above your circumstances even while you are in the midst of them. Present your requests to Me with thanksgiving, and My Peace, wich surpasses all comprehension, will guard your heart and your mind.
I love how she said, "I [Jesus] can weave miracles into the most mundane day if you keep your focus on Me." Isn't that the truth?! If I keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus throughout my day, blessings seem to pop up everywhere. I am more aware of the sweetness of my children's kisses. I am more aware of those in my life who are true friends and true blessings. And I am more aware of the stillness in my heart that can only be from the Lord.
So I come to God daily with a thankful heart. By simply counting my blessings I see how "much" God has blessed me with. But even better than that, my heart is in awe that the most special blessing of all is God's presence in my life. What more is there to be thankful for? When my heart is satisfied by being in His Presence, it is free to live for Him - to give Him all the Glory.
Psalm 118:24; Philippians 4:19, 6-7
A Thankful Heart
My mom gave me a daily devotional for Christmas called, Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. Sarah has been a missionary throughout the world for years, and she has written these daily devotions as though Jesus is speaking directly to us. And, through His Word, He truly is.
The devotion a couple of days ago has really struck a chord with me. It corresponds to Habit #1 so perfectly, and it has helped to guide my "counting of blessings."
Jauary 17
Come to Me with a thankful heart, so that you can enjoy My Presence. This is the day that I have made. I want you to rejoice today, refusing to worry about tomorrow. Search for all that I have prepared for you, anticipating abundant blessings and accepting difficulties as they come. I can weave miracles into the most mundane day if you keep your focus on Me.
Come to Me with all your needs, knowing that My glorious riches are a more-than-adequate supply. Stay in continual communication with Me, so that you can live above your circumstances even while you are in the midst of them. Present your requests to Me with thanksgiving, and My Peace, wich surpasses all comprehension, will guard your heart and your mind.
I love how she said, "I [Jesus] can weave miracles into the most mundane day if you keep your focus on Me." Isn't that the truth?! If I keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus throughout my day, blessings seem to pop up everywhere. I am more aware of the sweetness of my children's kisses. I am more aware of those in my life who are true friends and true blessings. And I am more aware of the stillness in my heart that can only be from the Lord.
So I come to God daily with a thankful heart. By simply counting my blessings I see how "much" God has blessed me with. But even better than that, my heart is in awe that the most special blessing of all is God's presence in my life. What more is there to be thankful for? When my heart is satisfied by being in His Presence, it is free to live for Him - to give Him all the Glory.
Psalm 118:24; Philippians 4:19, 6-7
The devotion a couple of days ago has really struck a chord with me. It corresponds to Habit #1 so perfectly, and it has helped to guide my "counting of blessings."
Jauary 17
Come to Me with a thankful heart, so that you can enjoy My Presence. This is the day that I have made. I want you to rejoice today, refusing to worry about tomorrow. Search for all that I have prepared for you, anticipating abundant blessings and accepting difficulties as they come. I can weave miracles into the most mundane day if you keep your focus on Me.
Come to Me with all your needs, knowing that My glorious riches are a more-than-adequate supply. Stay in continual communication with Me, so that you can live above your circumstances even while you are in the midst of them. Present your requests to Me with thanksgiving, and My Peace, wich surpasses all comprehension, will guard your heart and your mind.
I love how she said, "I [Jesus] can weave miracles into the most mundane day if you keep your focus on Me." Isn't that the truth?! If I keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus throughout my day, blessings seem to pop up everywhere. I am more aware of the sweetness of my children's kisses. I am more aware of those in my life who are true friends and true blessings. And I am more aware of the stillness in my heart that can only be from the Lord.
So I come to God daily with a thankful heart. By simply counting my blessings I see how "much" God has blessed me with. But even better than that, my heart is in awe that the most special blessing of all is God's presence in my life. What more is there to be thankful for? When my heart is satisfied by being in His Presence, it is free to live for Him - to give Him all the Glory.
Psalm 118:24; Philippians 4:19, 6-7
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Snow Much Fun - 2
Oh, how I love snow! Everything is just beautiful covered in white powder. Despite the extremely frigid temperatures and the fact that it takes 15 minutes to get ready to go outside ;)...I still thoroughly enjoy snow when we get it. And, boy did we get it!!!
The kiddos were so excited to build asnowman snowLADY. (I wonder who named her that?!)
We started off our sledding with a laundry basket since every store around here has been out of sleds for weeks. It worked really well down our iced-driveway and frozen yard. :)
Our next door neighbor came out and told us that she had some real sleds and asked if we'd like to use them. Ummm, yes!!!
Squeals of delight!
And smiles all around!
Ella Beth had a blast sledding. Well, right up until she tumbled off her sled and met the ice face first. Poor thing! This picture does not do her face justice because it was just so bright outside. There are scratches and bruises all over her cheek and chin and even her neck. You can tell that the left side of her face is swollen. She was a tough girl, but said, "I am done sledding for today" once the tears stopped.
Daddy built us a fire "just because," and it was nice to take a break from sledding and relax.
Love making memories with our family. :)
The kiddos were so excited to build a
We started off our sledding with a laundry basket since every store around here has been out of sleds for weeks. It worked really well down our iced-driveway and frozen yard. :)
Our next door neighbor came out and told us that she had some real sleds and asked if we'd like to use them. Ummm, yes!!!
Squeals of delight!
And smiles all around!
Ella Beth had a blast sledding. Well, right up until she tumbled off her sled and met the ice face first. Poor thing! This picture does not do her face justice because it was just so bright outside. There are scratches and bruises all over her cheek and chin and even her neck. You can tell that the left side of her face is swollen. She was a tough girl, but said, "I am done sledding for today" once the tears stopped.
Daddy built us a fire "just because," and it was nice to take a break from sledding and relax.
Love making memories with our family. :)
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Habit 3
No, I haven't given up on my new habits of 2011. And, I don't plan to!
But where did I get my new habits? In all honesty, they aren't too original. As a matter of fact, they are very old habits.
"The Bible is God's letter to us. It's His truth for our lives. But we have to dig in a mine for the gold He has for us. A miner would never just walk into a cave, take a look around and say, 'Hmm. Don't see any gold here.' We can't just open God's Word, read a few lines and say, 'I don't see anything that applies to me.' A miner takes his pick and ax and begins chipping away to find the gold. We all have to do that with God's Word. We have to stay committed and keep digging...[the words] may have been written some two thousand years ago, but they are no less relevant today. We need God's truth in our lives...The more God's truth sinks into your heart and mind, the easier it will be to let Him lead you through." (Savage, living with less so your family has more)
So my third habit of 2011 is to read my Bible daily. This 3rd habit was actually the first habit that I decided upon, but it was through my daily reading that I found my other two. Imagine that. ;)
The "method" I'm starting with is reading one chapter in Proverbs each day. There are thirty-one chapters in Proverbs, and there are thirty-one days in the majority of months each year. I will start each day's reading with the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to that day of the month. (e.g. Today is January 13, so I read Proverbs 13) In addition, I am currently studying the book of Luke. This is not my own "method," I've heard others suggest it before; I am enjoying it quite a bit. Every day, new wisdom is revealed to me in Proverbs and simply studying God's word feeds my soul.
I didn't make any health-related resolutions this year, but in light of the new habits I have made I am feeling very well inside. :)
But where did I get my new habits? In all honesty, they aren't too original. As a matter of fact, they are very old habits.
"The Bible is God's letter to us. It's His truth for our lives. But we have to dig in a mine for the gold He has for us. A miner would never just walk into a cave, take a look around and say, 'Hmm. Don't see any gold here.' We can't just open God's Word, read a few lines and say, 'I don't see anything that applies to me.' A miner takes his pick and ax and begins chipping away to find the gold. We all have to do that with God's Word. We have to stay committed and keep digging...[the words] may have been written some two thousand years ago, but they are no less relevant today. We need God's truth in our lives...The more God's truth sinks into your heart and mind, the easier it will be to let Him lead you through." (Savage, living with less so your family has more)
So my third habit of 2011 is to read my Bible daily. This 3rd habit was actually the first habit that I decided upon, but it was through my daily reading that I found my other two. Imagine that. ;)
The "method" I'm starting with is reading one chapter in Proverbs each day. There are thirty-one chapters in Proverbs, and there are thirty-one days in the majority of months each year. I will start each day's reading with the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to that day of the month. (e.g. Today is January 13, so I read Proverbs 13) In addition, I am currently studying the book of Luke. This is not my own "method," I've heard others suggest it before; I am enjoying it quite a bit. Every day, new wisdom is revealed to me in Proverbs and simply studying God's word feeds my soul.
I didn't make any health-related resolutions this year, but in light of the new habits I have made I am feeling very well inside. :)
Habit 3
No, I haven't given up on my new habits of 2011. And, I don't plan to!
But where did I get my new habits? In all honesty, they aren't too original. As a matter of fact, they are very old habits.
"The Bible is God's letter to us. It's His truth for our lives. But we have to dig in a mine for the gold He has for us. A miner would never just walk into a cave, take a look around and say, 'Hmm. Don't see any gold here.' We can't just open God's Word, read a few lines and say, 'I don't see anything that applies to me.' A miner takes his pick and ax and begins chipping away to find the gold. We all have to do that with God's Word. We have to stay committed and keep digging...[the words] may have been written some two thousand years ago, but they are no less relevant today. We need God's truth in our lives...The more God's truth sinks into your heart and mind, the easier it will be to let Him lead you through." (Savage, living with less so your family has more)
So my third habit of 2011 is to read my Bible daily. This 3rd habit was actually the first habit that I decided upon, but it was through my daily reading that I found my other two. Imagine that. ;)
The "method" I'm starting with is reading one chapter in Proverbs each day. There are thirty-one chapters in Proverbs, and there are thirty-one days in the majority of months each year. I will start each day's reading with the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to that day of the month. (e.g. Today is January 13, so I read Proverbs 13) In addition, I am currently studying the book of Luke. This is not my own "method," I've heard others suggest it before; I am enjoying it quite a bit. Every day, new wisdom is revealed to me in Proverbs and simply studying God's word feeds my soul.
I didn't make any health-related resolutions this year, but in light of the new habits I have made I am feeling very well inside. :)
But where did I get my new habits? In all honesty, they aren't too original. As a matter of fact, they are very old habits.
"The Bible is God's letter to us. It's His truth for our lives. But we have to dig in a mine for the gold He has for us. A miner would never just walk into a cave, take a look around and say, 'Hmm. Don't see any gold here.' We can't just open God's Word, read a few lines and say, 'I don't see anything that applies to me.' A miner takes his pick and ax and begins chipping away to find the gold. We all have to do that with God's Word. We have to stay committed and keep digging...[the words] may have been written some two thousand years ago, but they are no less relevant today. We need God's truth in our lives...The more God's truth sinks into your heart and mind, the easier it will be to let Him lead you through." (Savage, living with less so your family has more)
So my third habit of 2011 is to read my Bible daily. This 3rd habit was actually the first habit that I decided upon, but it was through my daily reading that I found my other two. Imagine that. ;)
The "method" I'm starting with is reading one chapter in Proverbs each day. There are thirty-one chapters in Proverbs, and there are thirty-one days in the majority of months each year. I will start each day's reading with the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to that day of the month. (e.g. Today is January 13, so I read Proverbs 13) In addition, I am currently studying the book of Luke. This is not my own "method," I've heard others suggest it before; I am enjoying it quite a bit. Every day, new wisdom is revealed to me in Proverbs and simply studying God's word feeds my soul.
I didn't make any health-related resolutions this year, but in light of the new habits I have made I am feeling very well inside. :)
Habit 3
No, I haven't given up on my new habits of 2011. And, I don't plan to!
But where did I get my new habits? In all honesty, they aren't too original. As a matter of fact, they are very old habits.
"The Bible is God's letter to us. It's His truth for our lives. But we have to dig in a mine for the gold He has for us. A miner would never just walk into a cave, take a look around and say, 'Hmm. Don't see any gold here.' We can't just open God's Word, read a few lines and say, 'I don't see anything that applies to me.' A miner takes his pick and ax and begins chipping away to find the gold. We all have to do that with God's Word. We have to stay committed and keep digging...[the words] may have been written some two thousand years ago, but they are no less relevant today. We need God's truth in our lives...The more God's truth sinks into your heart and mind, the easier it will be to let Him lead you through." (Savage, living with less so your family has more)
So my third habit of 2011 is to read my Bible daily. This 3rd habit was actually the first habit that I decided upon, but it was through my daily reading that I found my other two. Imagine that. ;)
The "method" I'm starting with is reading one chapter in Proverbs each day. There are thirty-one chapters in Proverbs, and there are thirty-one days in the majority of months each year. I will start each day's reading with the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to that day of the month. (e.g. Today is January 13, so I read Proverbs 13) In addition, I am currently studying the book of Luke. This is not my own "method," I've heard others suggest it before; I am enjoying it quite a bit. Every day, new wisdom is revealed to me in Proverbs and simply studying God's word feeds my soul.
I didn't make any health-related resolutions this year, but in light of the new habits I have made I am feeling very well inside. :)
But where did I get my new habits? In all honesty, they aren't too original. As a matter of fact, they are very old habits.
"The Bible is God's letter to us. It's His truth for our lives. But we have to dig in a mine for the gold He has for us. A miner would never just walk into a cave, take a look around and say, 'Hmm. Don't see any gold here.' We can't just open God's Word, read a few lines and say, 'I don't see anything that applies to me.' A miner takes his pick and ax and begins chipping away to find the gold. We all have to do that with God's Word. We have to stay committed and keep digging...[the words] may have been written some two thousand years ago, but they are no less relevant today. We need God's truth in our lives...The more God's truth sinks into your heart and mind, the easier it will be to let Him lead you through." (Savage, living with less so your family has more)
So my third habit of 2011 is to read my Bible daily. This 3rd habit was actually the first habit that I decided upon, but it was through my daily reading that I found my other two. Imagine that. ;)
The "method" I'm starting with is reading one chapter in Proverbs each day. There are thirty-one chapters in Proverbs, and there are thirty-one days in the majority of months each year. I will start each day's reading with the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to that day of the month. (e.g. Today is January 13, so I read Proverbs 13) In addition, I am currently studying the book of Luke. This is not my own "method," I've heard others suggest it before; I am enjoying it quite a bit. Every day, new wisdom is revealed to me in Proverbs and simply studying God's word feeds my soul.
I didn't make any health-related resolutions this year, but in light of the new habits I have made I am feeling very well inside. :)
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Habit 2
I have seen with my own eyes and experienced with all of my senses what it is to be in need. I have traveled to both Kenya, Africa and Port Au Prince, Haiti and my heart has been broken for what breaks God's heart.
What has amazed me the most about the people in those countries is how BIG their faith is. They rely on God for everything, and trust that He will provide no matter how dim their realities look. Talk about life-changing priorities. Here I complain about being hungry if I haven't had a good lunch, but they don't complain. About anything. They are happy for what they have and feel blessed. They have so little, but they cherish what they do have and know that it is from God. And they thank Him.
That is why I have carefully chosen my second new habit of 2011. Habit 2 is going to be the most difficult of the 3 I am afraid, but I am committed to it.
I am not going to complain.
For me, the act of complaining is NOT just a statement (a whine, really) that I am not getting my way. No, for me it opens the door for discontentment. My thoughts begin to travel, and my sinful heart is swept so easily into feeling sorry for myself or wishing I had a different set of circumstances.
Sadly, it's a never-ending cycle. And every situation can find its way down the path of discontentment if allowed to do so.
I am thankful for the Spirit who so gently rebukes and reveals the ugliness inside of my own heart. And who forgives me and reminds me to count my blessings.
I am extraordinarily blessed. And I won't complain lest my heart forget.
What has amazed me the most about the people in those countries is how BIG their faith is. They rely on God for everything, and trust that He will provide no matter how dim their realities look. Talk about life-changing priorities. Here I complain about being hungry if I haven't had a good lunch, but they don't complain. About anything. They are happy for what they have and feel blessed. They have so little, but they cherish what they do have and know that it is from God. And they thank Him.
That is why I have carefully chosen my second new habit of 2011. Habit 2 is going to be the most difficult of the 3 I am afraid, but I am committed to it.
I am not going to complain.
For me, the act of complaining is NOT just a statement (a whine, really) that I am not getting my way. No, for me it opens the door for discontentment. My thoughts begin to travel, and my sinful heart is swept so easily into feeling sorry for myself or wishing I had a different set of circumstances.
Sadly, it's a never-ending cycle. And every situation can find its way down the path of discontentment if allowed to do so.
I am thankful for the Spirit who so gently rebukes and reveals the ugliness inside of my own heart. And who forgives me and reminds me to count my blessings.
I am extraordinarily blessed. And I won't complain lest my heart forget.
Habit 2
I have seen with my own eyes and experienced with all of my senses what it is to be in need. I have traveled to both Kenya, Africa and Port Au Prince, Haiti and my heart has been broken for what breaks God's heart.
What has amazed me the most about the people in those countries is how BIG their faith is. They rely on God for everything, and trust that He will provide no matter how dim their realities look. Talk about life-changing priorities. Here I complain about being hungry if I haven't had a good lunch, but they don't complain. About anything. They are happy for what they have and feel blessed. They have so little, but they cherish what they do have and know that it is from God. And they thank Him.
That is why I have carefully chosen my second new habit of 2011. Habit 2 is going to be the most difficult of the 3 I am afraid, but I am committed to it.
I am not going to complain.
For me, the act of complaining is NOT just a statement (a whine, really) that I am not getting my way. No, for me it opens the door for discontentment. My thoughts begin to travel, and my sinful heart is swept so easily into feeling sorry for myself or wishing I had a different set of circumstances.
Sadly, it's a never-ending cycle. And every situation can find its way down the path of discontentment if allowed to do so.
I am thankful for the Spirit who so gently rebukes and reveals the ugliness inside of my own heart. And who forgives me and reminds me to count my blessings.
I am extraordinarily blessed. And I won't complain lest my heart forget.
What has amazed me the most about the people in those countries is how BIG their faith is. They rely on God for everything, and trust that He will provide no matter how dim their realities look. Talk about life-changing priorities. Here I complain about being hungry if I haven't had a good lunch, but they don't complain. About anything. They are happy for what they have and feel blessed. They have so little, but they cherish what they do have and know that it is from God. And they thank Him.
That is why I have carefully chosen my second new habit of 2011. Habit 2 is going to be the most difficult of the 3 I am afraid, but I am committed to it.
I am not going to complain.
For me, the act of complaining is NOT just a statement (a whine, really) that I am not getting my way. No, for me it opens the door for discontentment. My thoughts begin to travel, and my sinful heart is swept so easily into feeling sorry for myself or wishing I had a different set of circumstances.
Sadly, it's a never-ending cycle. And every situation can find its way down the path of discontentment if allowed to do so.
I am thankful for the Spirit who so gently rebukes and reveals the ugliness inside of my own heart. And who forgives me and reminds me to count my blessings.
I am extraordinarily blessed. And I won't complain lest my heart forget.
Habit 2
I have seen with my own eyes and experienced with all of my senses what it is to be in need. I have traveled to both Kenya, Africa and Port Au Prince, Haiti and my heart has been broken for what breaks God's heart.
What has amazed me the most about the people in those countries is how BIG their faith is. They rely on God for everything, and trust that He will provide no matter how dim their realities look. Talk about life-changing priorities. Here I complain about being hungry if I haven't had a good lunch, but they don't complain. About anything. They are happy for what they have and feel blessed. They have so little, but they cherish what they do have and know that it is from God. And they thank Him.
That is why I have carefully chosen my second new habit of 2011. Habit 2 is going to be the most difficult of the 3 I am afraid, but I am committed to it.
I am not going to complain.
For me, the act of complaining is NOT just a statement (a whine, really) that I am not getting my way. No, for me it opens the door for discontentment. My thoughts begin to travel, and my sinful heart is swept so easily into feeling sorry for myself or wishing I had a different set of circumstances.
Sadly, it's a never-ending cycle. And every situation can find its way down the path of discontentment if allowed to do so.
I am thankful for the Spirit who so gently rebukes and reveals the ugliness inside of my own heart. And who forgives me and reminds me to count my blessings.
I am extraordinarily blessed. And I won't complain lest my heart forget.
What has amazed me the most about the people in those countries is how BIG their faith is. They rely on God for everything, and trust that He will provide no matter how dim their realities look. Talk about life-changing priorities. Here I complain about being hungry if I haven't had a good lunch, but they don't complain. About anything. They are happy for what they have and feel blessed. They have so little, but they cherish what they do have and know that it is from God. And they thank Him.
That is why I have carefully chosen my second new habit of 2011. Habit 2 is going to be the most difficult of the 3 I am afraid, but I am committed to it.
I am not going to complain.
For me, the act of complaining is NOT just a statement (a whine, really) that I am not getting my way. No, for me it opens the door for discontentment. My thoughts begin to travel, and my sinful heart is swept so easily into feeling sorry for myself or wishing I had a different set of circumstances.
Sadly, it's a never-ending cycle. And every situation can find its way down the path of discontentment if allowed to do so.
I am thankful for the Spirit who so gently rebukes and reveals the ugliness inside of my own heart. And who forgives me and reminds me to count my blessings.
I am extraordinarily blessed. And I won't complain lest my heart forget.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Habit 1
My mom had a friend who had the sweetest spirit. Even when she was days away from meeting our Lord, if you asked her, "How are you doing?" she always responded, "I am blessed."
That is the type of woman I want to be.
Therefore, my first new habit of 2011 is to count my blessings every day.
* A personal relationship with my Savior
* Friends
* Food to eat
* Clothes to wear
* A nice, warm house to live in when it's freezing outside
* Brownies made with lots of help from little hands
* Clean water
* Toothbrushes and toothpaste
* Books to read
* Soft pillows and a soft, warm bed
* Snuggles
I could go on and on, but I'll stop with this...
* The love of my family
I feel more content already. :)
Truly I am blessed.
That is the type of woman I want to be.
Therefore, my first new habit of 2011 is to count my blessings every day.
It is hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
* A personal relationship with my Savior
* Friends
* Food to eat
* Clothes to wear
* A nice, warm house to live in when it's freezing outside
* Brownies made with lots of help from little hands
* Clean water
* Toothbrushes and toothpaste
* Books to read
* Soft pillows and a soft, warm bed
* Snuggles
I could go on and on, but I'll stop with this...
* The love of my family
I feel more content already. :)
Truly I am blessed.
Habit 1
My mom had a friend who had the sweetest spirit. Even when she was days away from meeting our Lord, if you asked her, "How are you doing?" she always responded, "I am blessed."
That is the type of woman I want to be.
Therefore, my first new habit of 2011 is to count my blessings every day.
* A personal relationship with my Savior
* Friends
* Food to eat
* Clothes to wear
* A nice, warm house to live in when it's freezing outside
* Brownies made with lots of help from little hands
* Clean water
* Toothbrushes and toothpaste
* Books to read
* Soft pillows and a soft, warm bed
* Snuggles
I could go on and on, but I'll stop with this...
* The love of my family
I feel more content already. :)
Truly I am blessed.
That is the type of woman I want to be.
Therefore, my first new habit of 2011 is to count my blessings every day.
It is hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
* A personal relationship with my Savior
* Friends
* Food to eat
* Clothes to wear
* A nice, warm house to live in when it's freezing outside
* Brownies made with lots of help from little hands
* Clean water
* Toothbrushes and toothpaste
* Books to read
* Soft pillows and a soft, warm bed
* Snuggles
I could go on and on, but I'll stop with this...
* The love of my family
I feel more content already. :)
Truly I am blessed.
Habit 1
My mom had a friend who had the sweetest spirit. Even when she was days away from meeting our Lord, if you asked her, "How are you doing?" she always responded, "I am blessed."
That is the type of woman I want to be.
Therefore, my first new habit of 2011 is to count my blessings every day.
* A personal relationship with my Savior
* Friends
* Food to eat
* Clothes to wear
* A nice, warm house to live in when it's freezing outside
* Brownies made with lots of help from little hands
* Clean water
* Toothbrushes and toothpaste
* Books to read
* Soft pillows and a soft, warm bed
* Snuggles
I could go on and on, but I'll stop with this...
* The love of my family
I feel more content already. :)
Truly I am blessed.
That is the type of woman I want to be.
Therefore, my first new habit of 2011 is to count my blessings every day.
It is hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
* A personal relationship with my Savior
* Friends
* Food to eat
* Clothes to wear
* A nice, warm house to live in when it's freezing outside
* Brownies made with lots of help from little hands
* Clean water
* Toothbrushes and toothpaste
* Books to read
* Soft pillows and a soft, warm bed
* Snuggles
I could go on and on, but I'll stop with this...
* The love of my family
I feel more content already. :)
Truly I am blessed.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Discontentment
God has really been laying on my heart lately how easily I fall into the trap of being discontent. So I am going to concentrate 2011 on the art of being content.
Phillipians 4:11-12 says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
I believe the key word in these verses is "learned." In our society (and apparently in societies many years ago) there is always the pull to want something different than what we have.
I found these quotes by Kent Crockett on contentment:
* The grass is always greenest in the center of God’s will.
*A nicer golf course won't make you a better golfer. A nicer environment won't make you a better person.
*Has it ever occurred to you that the things you now have were once things you were trying to get?
* Contentment in life is not found in a perfect set of circumstances but by choosing to be happy in every situation.
The last quote is my favorite - being content is a choice. And it is my choice to make 2011 a year of purposefully learning contentment.
A website that I have recently fallen in love with is http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Ann Voskamp is such a beautiful writer, and I have told more than one person that her site has changed my life. ;) One thing I am doing to intentionally learn to be content this year is by following the 100 Day Calendar found here. More and more I want to have a grateful heart, for truly God has blessed me with so much. I am choosing to develop 3 new habits over the next 100 days.
It's hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
Phillipians 4:11-12 says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
I believe the key word in these verses is "learned." In our society (and apparently in societies many years ago) there is always the pull to want something different than what we have.
I found these quotes by Kent Crockett on contentment:
* The grass is always greenest in the center of God’s will.
*A nicer golf course won't make you a better golfer. A nicer environment won't make you a better person.
*Has it ever occurred to you that the things you now have were once things you were trying to get?
* Contentment in life is not found in a perfect set of circumstances but by choosing to be happy in every situation.
The last quote is my favorite - being content is a choice. And it is my choice to make 2011 a year of purposefully learning contentment.
A website that I have recently fallen in love with is http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Ann Voskamp is such a beautiful writer, and I have told more than one person that her site has changed my life. ;) One thing I am doing to intentionally learn to be content this year is by following the 100 Day Calendar found here. More and more I want to have a grateful heart, for truly God has blessed me with so much. I am choosing to develop 3 new habits over the next 100 days.
It's hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
Discontentment
God has really been laying on my heart lately how easily I fall into the trap of being discontent. So I am going to concentrate 2011 on the art of being content.
Phillipians 4:11-12 says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
I believe the key word in these verses is "learned." In our society (and apparently in societies many years ago) there is always the pull to want something different than what we have.
I found these quotes by Kent Crockett on contentment:
* The grass is always greenest in the center of God’s will.
*A nicer golf course won't make you a better golfer. A nicer environment won't make you a better person.
*Has it ever occurred to you that the things you now have were once things you were trying to get?
* Contentment in life is not found in a perfect set of circumstances but by choosing to be happy in every situation.
The last quote is my favorite - being content is a choice. And it is my choice to make 2011 a year of purposefully learning contentment.
A website that I have recently fallen in love with is http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Ann Voskamp is such a beautiful writer, and I have told more than one person that her site has changed my life. ;) One thing I am doing to intentionally learn to be content this year is by following the 100 Day Calendar found here. More and more I want to have a grateful heart, for truly God has blessed me with so much. I am choosing to develop 3 new habits over the next 100 days.
It's hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
Phillipians 4:11-12 says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
I believe the key word in these verses is "learned." In our society (and apparently in societies many years ago) there is always the pull to want something different than what we have.
I found these quotes by Kent Crockett on contentment:
* The grass is always greenest in the center of God’s will.
*A nicer golf course won't make you a better golfer. A nicer environment won't make you a better person.
*Has it ever occurred to you that the things you now have were once things you were trying to get?
* Contentment in life is not found in a perfect set of circumstances but by choosing to be happy in every situation.
The last quote is my favorite - being content is a choice. And it is my choice to make 2011 a year of purposefully learning contentment.
A website that I have recently fallen in love with is http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Ann Voskamp is such a beautiful writer, and I have told more than one person that her site has changed my life. ;) One thing I am doing to intentionally learn to be content this year is by following the 100 Day Calendar found here. More and more I want to have a grateful heart, for truly God has blessed me with so much. I am choosing to develop 3 new habits over the next 100 days.
It's hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
Discontentment
God has really been laying on my heart lately how easily I fall into the trap of being discontent. So I am going to concentrate 2011 on the art of being content.
Phillipians 4:11-12 says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
I believe the key word in these verses is "learned." In our society (and apparently in societies many years ago) there is always the pull to want something different than what we have.
I found these quotes by Kent Crockett on contentment:
* The grass is always greenest in the center of God’s will.
*A nicer golf course won't make you a better golfer. A nicer environment won't make you a better person.
*Has it ever occurred to you that the things you now have were once things you were trying to get?
* Contentment in life is not found in a perfect set of circumstances but by choosing to be happy in every situation.
The last quote is my favorite - being content is a choice. And it is my choice to make 2011 a year of purposefully learning contentment.
A website that I have recently fallen in love with is http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Ann Voskamp is such a beautiful writer, and I have told more than one person that her site has changed my life. ;) One thing I am doing to intentionally learn to be content this year is by following the 100 Day Calendar found here. More and more I want to have a grateful heart, for truly God has blessed me with so much. I am choosing to develop 3 new habits over the next 100 days.
It's hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
Phillipians 4:11-12 says, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."
I believe the key word in these verses is "learned." In our society (and apparently in societies many years ago) there is always the pull to want something different than what we have.
I found these quotes by Kent Crockett on contentment:
* The grass is always greenest in the center of God’s will.
*A nicer golf course won't make you a better golfer. A nicer environment won't make you a better person.
*Has it ever occurred to you that the things you now have were once things you were trying to get?
* Contentment in life is not found in a perfect set of circumstances but by choosing to be happy in every situation.
The last quote is my favorite - being content is a choice. And it is my choice to make 2011 a year of purposefully learning contentment.
A website that I have recently fallen in love with is http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Ann Voskamp is such a beautiful writer, and I have told more than one person that her site has changed my life. ;) One thing I am doing to intentionally learn to be content this year is by following the 100 Day Calendar found here. More and more I want to have a grateful heart, for truly God has blessed me with so much. I am choosing to develop 3 new habits over the next 100 days.
It's hard to be discontent when you count your blessings.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Day 3
Today marks Day 3 of homeschooling in the Castleberry household. Things are going very well. Aside from cursive handwriting, ahem. Ella Beth just soaks up everything that we go over, and I am finding that the Kindergarten curriculum is just a review for Ella Beth despite the fact that she is just 4 years old. We are doing 3-5 lessons a day in about 45 minutes. But that is just fine for now. I am using this "review" as a time for Ella Beth and me to adjust to homeschooling. It's a pretty big adjustment.
Ella Beth has been in Montessori school for the last two years, and has truly thrived in the Montessori enviornment. Or, let me be clear - she has thrived educationally in the Montessori classroom. Socially, that's a different story all together. Which answers the question I have been asked so frequently lately:
Why are you choosing to homeschool?
There is not one simple answer to this question. Rather, a myriad of issuse led to my decision. The Montessori approach to teaching is truly phenomenal, and if you have not done any research into Montessori education, I highly recommend it! I am going to be supplementing the curriculum that we are using as much as possible with Montessori activities and manipulatives.
However, as good as the Montessori approach is (and I truly believe it is), there are also many things that counter the values that we, well, value in our home. More times than I can count, Ella Beth has come home with stories that just shock me. Ella Beth is just 4, but when she was 3 the stories started: "__________ called me stupid and said my shirt was ugly." "________ says that I'm not her friend any more and she's not going to invite me to her birthday party." "_________" says that there are vampires in her back yard who come to drink blood at night."
Wow. At four years old, Ella Beth has heard words that we have never spoken in our house, and has repeated those words; she has been exposed to vampires; she has been bullied; she has been treated unkind and has learned how to treat others unkindly. Her school is great, and her teachers were just wonderful. But when it came down to Ella Beth's heart, it was not being developed the way that our family desires.
So, I have chosen to shelter my children. Bring on all criticism because I can defend my decision. :) I am choosing eternal importance above temperal.
Ella Beth has been in Montessori school for the last two years, and has truly thrived in the Montessori enviornment. Or, let me be clear - she has thrived educationally in the Montessori classroom. Socially, that's a different story all together. Which answers the question I have been asked so frequently lately:
Why are you choosing to homeschool?
There is not one simple answer to this question. Rather, a myriad of issuse led to my decision. The Montessori approach to teaching is truly phenomenal, and if you have not done any research into Montessori education, I highly recommend it! I am going to be supplementing the curriculum that we are using as much as possible with Montessori activities and manipulatives.
However, as good as the Montessori approach is (and I truly believe it is), there are also many things that counter the values that we, well, value in our home. More times than I can count, Ella Beth has come home with stories that just shock me. Ella Beth is just 4, but when she was 3 the stories started: "__________ called me stupid and said my shirt was ugly." "________ says that I'm not her friend any more and she's not going to invite me to her birthday party." "_________" says that there are vampires in her back yard who come to drink blood at night."
Wow. At four years old, Ella Beth has heard words that we have never spoken in our house, and has repeated those words; she has been exposed to vampires; she has been bullied; she has been treated unkind and has learned how to treat others unkindly. Her school is great, and her teachers were just wonderful. But when it came down to Ella Beth's heart, it was not being developed the way that our family desires.
So, I have chosen to shelter my children. Bring on all criticism because I can defend my decision. :) I am choosing eternal importance above temperal.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
What Is A Girl?
"What Is A Girl?" by Alan Beck
Little girls are the nicest things that can happen to people. They are born with a little bit of angelshine about them, and though it wears thin sometimes, there is always enough left to lasso your heart...
A little girl can be sweeter (and badder) oftener than anyone else in the world. She can jitter around, and stomp, and make funny noises that frazzle your nerves, yet just when you open your mouth, she stands there demure with that special look in her eyes...
God borrows from many creatures to make a little girl. He uses he song of a bird, the squeal of a pig, the stubbornness of a mule, the antics of a monkey, the spryness of a grasshopper, the curiosity of a cat, the speed of a gazelle, the slyness of a fox, the softness of a kitten, and to top it all off He adds the mysterious mind of a woman...
A little girl likes new shoes, party dresses, small animals, first grade, noisemakers, the girl next door, dolls, make-believe, dancing lessons, ice cream, kitchens, coloring books, makeup, cans of water, going visiting, tea parties, and one boy. She doesn't care so much for visitors, boys in general, large dogs, hand-me-downs, straight chairs, vegetables, snowsuits, or staying in the front yard. She is loudest when you are thinking, the prettiest when she has provoked you, the busiest at bedtime, the quietest when you want to show her off, and the most flirtatious when she absolutely must not get the best of you again.
--
Thank you, God, for my little girl.
Little girls are the nicest things that can happen to people. They are born with a little bit of angelshine about them, and though it wears thin sometimes, there is always enough left to lasso your heart...
A little girl can be sweeter (and badder) oftener than anyone else in the world. She can jitter around, and stomp, and make funny noises that frazzle your nerves, yet just when you open your mouth, she stands there demure with that special look in her eyes...
God borrows from many creatures to make a little girl. He uses he song of a bird, the squeal of a pig, the stubbornness of a mule, the antics of a monkey, the spryness of a grasshopper, the curiosity of a cat, the speed of a gazelle, the slyness of a fox, the softness of a kitten, and to top it all off He adds the mysterious mind of a woman...
A little girl likes new shoes, party dresses, small animals, first grade, noisemakers, the girl next door, dolls, make-believe, dancing lessons, ice cream, kitchens, coloring books, makeup, cans of water, going visiting, tea parties, and one boy. She doesn't care so much for visitors, boys in general, large dogs, hand-me-downs, straight chairs, vegetables, snowsuits, or staying in the front yard. She is loudest when you are thinking, the prettiest when she has provoked you, the busiest at bedtime, the quietest when you want to show her off, and the most flirtatious when she absolutely must not get the best of you again.
Thank you, God, for my little girl.
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