Monday, May 31, 2010
Music Monday - Down to the River to Pray
Every week, I get the privilege to share with you the music that moves me. Often the music that I choose has a story or a message that God has given me. However, this week I'm posting this song just because I like it.
I had never heard this song until I saw O Brother Where Art Thou. It was an amazing scene where the congregation go literally "down to the river" for baptism. This version is by the King Singers. I really enjoy listening to them.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the starry crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O sisters let's go down,
Let's go down, come on down,
O sisters let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the robe and crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O brothers let's go down,
Let's go down, come on down,
Come on brothers let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the starry crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O fathers let's go down,
Let's go down, come on down,
O fathers let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the robe and crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O mothers let's go down,
Let's go down, don't you want to go down,
Come on mothers let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the starry crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O sinners let's go down,
Let's go down, come on down,
O sinners let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the robe and crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the starry crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O sisters let's go down,
Let's go down, come on down,
O sisters let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the robe and crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O brothers let's go down,
Let's go down, come on down,
Come on brothers let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the starry crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O fathers let's go down,
Let's go down, come on down,
O fathers let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the robe and crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O mothers let's go down,
Let's go down, don't you want to go down,
Come on mothers let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the starry crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
O sinners let's go down,
Let's go down, come on down,
O sinners let's go down,
Down in the river to pray.
As I went down in the river to pray
Studying about that good old way
And who shall wear the robe and crown
Good Lord, show me the way !
Now go and share your Music Monday with Shawntele at Saved by Grace.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!
Today is my 36th Birthday. Today I want everyone to celebrate with me. It's easy all you have to do is press play on the video and then get off your chair and dance around like a fool. Don't be worried about what your family may think. If they knew me, they would totally understand why. My children often wonder what I'm doing when I'm dancing in the kitchen to "kitchy" songs. Know that while you're doing this, you're not dancing alone. I'm dancing with you.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Caffeinated Randomness - 1974
Ok, I was born in 1974. I have decided since it is my birthday week, that I would share with you
some history that occurred in 1974.
- Yearly Inflation Rate USA 11.3%
- Yearly Inflation Rate UK 17.2%
- Average Cost of new house $34,900.00
- Average Income per year $13,900.00
- Average Monthly Rent $185.00
- Cost of a gallon of Gas 55 cents
- Average cost new car$3,750.00
I could take the house and car costs, however, I wonder what they would be now??
Cool Things
- Sears Tower in Chicago becomes the worlds tallest building
- Henry Kissenger convinces Syria and Israel agree to a ceasefire on the Golan Heights
- In response to the energy crisis, daylight saving time commences nearly four months early in the United States.
- Pocket calculators start to appear in shops
Living in a province that does not do daylight savings time, I find it funny that this is only as old as I am. I just bout a calculator a few months ago for $2.99. I wonder how much the calculators were back in 1974?
Not Cool Things
- Richard Nixon becomes the first US president forced to resign after the Watergate Scandal
- The largest series of tornadoes in history, hits 13 U.S. states and one Canadian province. By the time the last of 148 tornadoes hit early the following morning, 315 died and over 5,000 were injured.
- IRA begins bombing campaign on mainland Britain and bombs The Tower of London on July 17th and the Houses of parliament and pubs in Birmingham
Sounds Familiar:
- A major US Bank Franklin National Bank is declared insolvent
- The Global Recession Deepens
- Gasoline shortages and price increases throughout the world help to cause problems in most of the western worlds economies
- Governments and people around the world spend more time debating the use of Nuclear Energy to combat problems with Oil Prices and Supply
Popular Films
- The Sting
- The Exorcist
- Papillon
- Herbie Rides Again
- Blazing Saddles
- The Great Gatsby
- Serpico
- Death Wish
- The Godfather, Part II
- Murder on the Orient Express
Popular TV Shows
- Kung Fu
- The Price Is Right
- The Waltons
- Kojak
- Last of the Summer Wine
- The Six Million Dollar Man
Now go and share your Randomness with our Caffeinated Chieftain!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Tea Talk- The Twisted Ankle vs. The Birthday
I'm having tea. Shocking I know since I'm usually on my 3rd cup of coffee by now.
My cup is the mug my mom brought back from her trip to Sea World in San Diego. It has Shamu on it. It is quite large and holds about 3 cups of liquid. A great cup for coffee.
My cup is the mug my mom brought back from her trip to Sea World in San Diego. It has Shamu on it. It is quite large and holds about 3 cups of liquid. A great cup for coffee.
On my mind is my husband's birthday. I had great plans for today: making his favourite dinner-Oma's Pork Chops; making Lemon Meringue pie with the kids for desert; and having a nice evening with him. This plan has been dropped. Last night while walking with the baby to the neighbours I somehow twisted my ankle. I actually believe the road came out and attacked me. :)
My amazing husband took this morning off to take me to our local medical clinic. I have to keep off my feet for the next week, as much as possible (a great reason not to clean the house), however, this affects my birthday plans for my husband tonight. So, therefore I'm feeling a little depressed.
My amazing husband took this morning off to take me to our local medical clinic. I have to keep off my feet for the next week, as much as possible (a great reason not to clean the house), however, this affects my birthday plans for my husband tonight. So, therefore I'm feeling a little depressed.
Last week my Bible Babes and I finished our study on Kelly Minter's No Other Gods. The last study was on the Book of Ruth. I was reminded of my husband in my favourite verse from Ruth:
Come and join Ruth for a cup of tea at Celebrate Friendship.Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." (Ruth 1: 16b-17 NIV)
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Wednesday's Voice - Yemen
Update: Christian girls kidnapped in Yemen rescued
Saudi Arabian and Yemeni security forces have rescued Lydia (6) and Anna (4) Hentschel, German sisters who were taken hostage in Yemen last June, along with their parents, brother and four other Christians of which three were killed. Security officials found the young Christians in a disputed border region between Yemen and Saudi Arabia. The German foreign minister has reportedly described the sisters as in "relatively good health." They were scheduled to be transported back to Germany on May 19. There continues to be great concern about the safety and condition of the believers who remain kidnapped, including the girls' parents, Johannes, his wife Sabine as well as and British engineer, Anthony S. It is reportedly presumed their brother, Simon (2), has died. (Source: Compass Direct)
Pray for help and comfort for Lydia and Anna, that as they heal from the terrible ordeal they have endured, they will know the Lord's love in their lives.
Pray for protection and health for the other believers being held captive.
Pray for strength for the loved ones of these believers in these uncertain times -- particularly amid the recent news regarding Simon.
Pray for help and comfort for Lydia and Anna, that as they heal from the terrible ordeal they have endured, they will know the Lord's love in their lives.
Pray for protection and health for the other believers being held captive.
Pray for strength for the loved ones of these believers in these uncertain times -- particularly amid the recent news regarding Simon.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Music Monday's - Leroy
This week is my husband's and mine birthday's. We are 367 days apart.
I blogged last summer about our meeting and wedding. Leroy and I will celebrate our 10 year anniversary this November, hence why he is my Y2K guy. I know some of you may wonder why there are no pictures of Leroy on my blog. It's not that I don't want any, it's just that he is a very shy guy. He is my complete opposite. He is, as my aunt once called him, my Rock. He keeps me grounded.
After 10 years of marriage, Leroy continues to surprise me. He loves ACDC, Neil Young, TransSiberian Orchestra, but also groups like the King's Singers. I love his ability to appreciate music in all forms. He has increased my music appreciation and I thought I was already well rounded. I love that he plays all forms of music around the children so that they can appreciate music in all its forms. My daughter can be heard singing along to a few of our cds now. (TSO's Beethoven is one of her particular favourites). Thomas has loved Neil Young since he was a baby and Sam just likes anything with a good percussion (I'm praying he won't be a future drummer, but it looks that way).
Spem in Alium is Leroy's favourite song by the King Singers. I'm listening to it as I write. It is traditionally sung by 8 choirs. These men did it between the 6 of them. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do and that you reflect on the words - I have never put my hope in any other but you.
I blogged last summer about our meeting and wedding. Leroy and I will celebrate our 10 year anniversary this November, hence why he is my Y2K guy. I know some of you may wonder why there are no pictures of Leroy on my blog. It's not that I don't want any, it's just that he is a very shy guy. He is my complete opposite. He is, as my aunt once called him, my Rock. He keeps me grounded.
After 10 years of marriage, Leroy continues to surprise me. He loves ACDC, Neil Young, TransSiberian Orchestra, but also groups like the King's Singers. I love his ability to appreciate music in all forms. He has increased my music appreciation and I thought I was already well rounded. I love that he plays all forms of music around the children so that they can appreciate music in all its forms. My daughter can be heard singing along to a few of our cds now. (TSO's Beethoven is one of her particular favourites). Thomas has loved Neil Young since he was a baby and Sam just likes anything with a good percussion (I'm praying he won't be a future drummer, but it looks that way).
Spem in Alium is Leroy's favourite song by the King Singers. I'm listening to it as I write. It is traditionally sung by 8 choirs. These men did it between the 6 of them. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do and that you reflect on the words - I have never put my hope in any other but you.
- Spem in alium nunquam habui praeter in te
- Deus Israel
- qui irasceris
- et propitius eris
- et omnia peccata hominum in tribulatione dimittis
- Domine Deus
- Creator coeli et terrae
- respice humilitatem nostram
(English Translation)
- I have never put my hope in any other but in you,
- O God of Israel
- who can show both anger
- and graciousness,
- and who absolves all the sins of suffering man
- Lord God,
- Creator of Heaven and Earth
- be mindful of our lowliness
Friday, May 21, 2010
Caffeinated Randomness - Ladies Tea
Last week I was fortunate enough to MC our local Ladies Tea. As a member of our local Museum Board, of which this is a fundraiser for, I think they chose me as I'm not just the newest member of the Board, but also the youngest. For those who know me, you would be surprised to know that I hate public speaking. Yes, I'm sure our Caffeinated Chieftain is now rolling on the floor in tears. I'm very extroverted and love talking .......all the time. There is something different though in talking with a small group to 140 ladies of different ages and backgrounds.
This year's tea theme was Springtime in Paris. Our colours were Black and Hot Pink and I delivered.
Every year we ask people to dress up for the tea. The first year, we had people dress up in their wedding dresses. In fact, a mother and daughter both wore their respective wedding dresses. This year the little girls dressed up, but the adults didn't. We had a lot of girls in their flower girl dresses.
This is my dear daughter with her best friend. They look so innocent don't they. This year, as we were celebrating Springtime in Paris, we brought in the glamorous local models for the latest Haute Couture.
You will notice the "Sack" dress, the lovely 9 "Carat" necklace, and the Bridal "Cascade" bouquet. When we say fashion, we mean fashion.We also had a speaker who spoke on the Invisible Woman based on the talk by Nicole Johnson. She reminded us of the great inheritance each of the woman attending was passing on the next generations.
I can't wait until next year's tea. Who knows what crazy outfit I'll be wearing. By the way, I have been told that supposedly I did an excellent job MCing. So, if you have an event, I'm available.
Now go and share your Caffeinated Randomness with our Caffeinated Chieftain.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Wednesday's Voice - Pakistan
Update: Christian accused of blasphemy faces court in Pakistan
Martha Bibi (45), a Pakistani Christian woman accused of blasphemy in January 2007, is scheduled to appear in court on May 26. If deemed guilty, she may face the death penalty. Martha has been accused of making derogatory remarks against the Qur'an and of "defiling the sacred name of the prophet Muhammad." According to local Christians, the charges were brought against Martha by Muslim contractors who did not want to pay for materials she and her husband, a bricklayer, supplied to a construction site. (Source: ASSIST News Service)
Pray that the charges against Martha will be dropped.
Ask God to embolden Martha, her six children, and her husband.
Pray that the blasphemy law will be abolished in Pakistan.
Pray that the charges against Martha will be dropped.
Ask God to embolden Martha, her six children, and her husband.
Pray that the blasphemy law will be abolished in Pakistan.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Music Monday - Held
also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us (Romans 5:3-5 NIV)
I have heard these words many times since becoming a Christian. Two years ago they took real meaning for me.
I mentioned in my post at Sam's Birthday that just before I became pregnant with Sam, I had a miscarriage. I found out two years ago, yesterday that the baby I thought I carried had not gone past 8 weeks.
Two years ago, my hubby and I returned from our fun family vacation. My friend, Jennifer, came over and told us she was pregnant. I was laughing my head off because we had both declared months earlier that we were both D-O-N-E! Two was enough. We both had a girl and boy. After she told us, my hubby asked if I wanted another one. I thought he was crazy, but the more I thought about it and prayed about it, the more I knew that God was leading me to have another child. In fact, someone once told me I was going to have a girl and two boys.
I mentioned in my post at Sam's Birthday that just before I became pregnant with Sam, I had a miscarriage. I found out two years ago, yesterday that the baby I thought I carried had not gone past 8 weeks.
Two years ago, my hubby and I returned from our fun family vacation. My friend, Jennifer, came over and told us she was pregnant. I was laughing my head off because we had both declared months earlier that we were both D-O-N-E! Two was enough. We both had a girl and boy. After she told us, my hubby asked if I wanted another one. I thought he was crazy, but the more I thought about it and prayed about it, the more I knew that God was leading me to have another child. In fact, someone once told me I was going to have a girl and two boys.
We got pregnant pretty soon after trying. The first part of my pregnancy was normal to my other pregnancies - constant morning sickness. However, this one felt a bit different. I started spotting almost immediately. At first I thought it was because I did too much physical activities, as we were coaching our daughters under 6 soccer team. I went to the doctors and had an ultrasound. It appeared that our dates were a little different than what the ultrasound showed. My doctor said just to take it easy, so I did. I continued to spot on and off for a few weeks.
Finally the day of my ultrasound occurred. My husband decided to stay home with the kids so I went in alone. During the ultrasound the technician was pretty quiet. I knew something was wrong when she said she would get the doctor. I prayed that God would be near to me. I was told the news no mother should have to hear. That her child had not made it. I was devastated. I called my husband and told him.
When I got home, I literally walked to our room and lost it for a few hours. I'm sure the kids were wondering what was going on? There were many questions I had, why us? Why now? What had I done? Was it my lack of faith? Was I not following Christ enough? Was this punishment? I was angry!
I remember going to bed that evening and telling God how I felt. That this was unfair. That I didn't deserve this. That my family didn't deserve this. Then He led me to the verse above. He was there with me. I didn't deserve this. But He would do great things in me through this. He would be there for all the moments I wouldn't see. He would refine me through this.
He gave my husband and I the strength to tell my daughter that she wouldn't be having a sibling. She was upset, as was expected. But she knew she would see the baby in heaven. That Jesus had our baby and was taking care of him or her for us. That we would still get our baby, just not in our time. That we would be a complete family in heaven. Is there any better Father than God, who I could trust my child to other than our family.
When I first heard Held. The words crept into my soul. There are few times when I sing along that I do not cry. It expresses everything I felt about that time and this anniversary. I may not get to see my child grow up. There will be no birthday's to celebrate. No getting excited about first steps, first tooth, first dance. But God is there holding me. If you have gone through a miscarriage and question God in it, know that He is there holding you. If you are going through any struggle and don't think you'll make it. Know that you are held by the Father that created you and that will do great things in you.
When I got home, I literally walked to our room and lost it for a few hours. I'm sure the kids were wondering what was going on? There were many questions I had, why us? Why now? What had I done? Was it my lack of faith? Was I not following Christ enough? Was this punishment? I was angry!
I remember going to bed that evening and telling God how I felt. That this was unfair. That I didn't deserve this. That my family didn't deserve this. Then He led me to the verse above. He was there with me. I didn't deserve this. But He would do great things in me through this. He would be there for all the moments I wouldn't see. He would refine me through this.
He gave my husband and I the strength to tell my daughter that she wouldn't be having a sibling. She was upset, as was expected. But she knew she would see the baby in heaven. That Jesus had our baby and was taking care of him or her for us. That we would still get our baby, just not in our time. That we would be a complete family in heaven. Is there any better Father than God, who I could trust my child to other than our family.
When I first heard Held. The words crept into my soul. There are few times when I sing along that I do not cry. It expresses everything I felt about that time and this anniversary. I may not get to see my child grow up. There will be no birthday's to celebrate. No getting excited about first steps, first tooth, first dance. But God is there holding me. If you have gone through a miscarriage and question God in it, know that He is there holding you. If you are going through any struggle and don't think you'll make it. Know that you are held by the Father that created you and that will do great things in you.
Two months is too little
They let him go
They had no sudden healing
To think that providence
Would take a child from his mother
While she prays, is appalling
Who told us we'd be rescued
What has changed and
Why should we be saved from nightmares
We're asking why this happens to us
Who have died to live, it's unfair
[Chorus]
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
This hand is bitterness
We want to taste it and
Let the hatred numb our sorrows
The wise hand opens slowly
To lilies of the valley and tomorrow
[Chorus]
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
[Bridge]
If hope is born of suffering
If this is only the beginning
Can we not wait, for one hour
Watching for our savior
[Chorus]
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
We'd be held
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was when everything fell
We'd be held
This is what it means to be held.....
Please go and see Shawntele at Saved by Grace and sing your heart song!
Friday, May 14, 2010
Caffienated Randomness : I Live with Hugh Hefner
I bet you didn't know that I live with Hugh Hefner. He is very comfortable strolling around the house in his brown corduroy house coat all day. In fact, I have to remind him that he needs to put a regular jacket on when we are going out.
Don't you love him. I know he is ageless. You wouldn't know that he isn't a day over 4 years old. He loves the ladies. He loves giving kisses and hugs to any woman he encounters. I don't know if I should be scared about that or if I should embrace it. But I'm not a jealous mom, so I let him. Just today, someone came to pickup tickets that I was selling for a fundraiser, he had to immediately run to the door and go up and "maul" her. Luckily I knew the lovely lady. She was shocked but more at the fact that he had grown so much since the last time she had seen him. So, if you're every up our way, don't be surprised at the love received at our door.By the way, did you know that Hugh is actually Spiderman.
Now go and use your "Spidey" senses at Under Grace Over Coffee.Thursday, May 13, 2010
Tea Talk-Trust
I'm having water because I need to show off my new water bottle. No mug this week. I saw this bottle and had to have it. I'm always looking for a good water bottle and have found one or two that I liked but I 've never been totally sold on.
I purchased this one with two close friends in a 3 pack at Costco. We were all excited because they looked cool. But we got even more excited when we realized that they wouldn't leak and the top had a clip on so that we could clip the bottle to our bags. I highly recommend this water bottle.
I purchased this one with two close friends in a 3 pack at Costco. We were all excited because they looked cool. But we got even more excited when we realized that they wouldn't leak and the top had a clip on so that we could clip the bottle to our bags. I highly recommend this water bottle.I'm feeling loved, my friend Andrea gave me the prettiest flower poesy from in(courage).
The verse referenced on it is Ephesians 1:18 - I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints. A beautiful gift, from a beautiful friend.On my mind right now is how its funny when God wants us to teach us something everything we read seems to coincide with this. As I've mentioned before, my "Bible Babes" and I are doing Kelly Minter's study "No Other Gods" which is about turning from our idols and focusing our trust on God. I'm also reading Beth Moore's "Get Out of That Pit" about removing ourselves from the pits we've fallen into by trusting God. I've also started this week on a personal study of Esther through the coffee cup Bible studies by Sandra Glahn (Espresso with Esther - have to love anything that has coffee in the title) . This week she had us read all of Esther. What struck me- Esther trusted God enough to go to the King even though "If I perish, I perish." (Esther 4:16b). Notice the correlation. Trust. God is right now teaching me to lean on Him and trust Him to provide for me, guide me and protect me.
I'm going to leave you with the words from my poesy:
I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints.Go and share your Tea Talk with Ruth at Celebrate Friendship for more uplifting friends.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Wednesday's Voice - Iraq
Bomb Attack Kills One, Injures Many In Iraq
At least 50 Iraqi Christian students are receiving hospital treatment following a bomb attack on May 2 outside the city of Mosul that killed at least one person and has forced nearly 1,000 students to drop classes for the rest of the semester. Nearly 160 people were injured in the blasts that targeted three buses full of Christians travelling to classes at the University of Mosul. The convoy of buses, which brings Christian students from villages east of Mosul to the university, was making its daily route accompanied by two army cars. A roadside bomb followed by a car bomb reportedly exploded in the area of Kokjaly as the buses were clearing a checkpoint staffed by U.S., Iraqi and Iraqi Kurdish soldiers. The owner of a nearby car repair shop, Radeef Hashim Mahrook, was killed in one of the blasts as he tried to help the students. (Source: Compass Direct)
Pray for comfort for those mourning the loss of Radeef.
Ask God to heal the bodies of the injured students.
Pray that this experience will lead them to renew their commitment to Christ, and that attacks against the Christian community in Iraq will stop.
Pray for comfort for those mourning the loss of Radeef.
Ask God to heal the bodies of the injured students.
Pray that this experience will lead them to renew their commitment to Christ, and that attacks against the Christian community in Iraq will stop.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Refining Fire
A month ago my husband came home and told me about a grass fire along the highway 5 minutes from our home. He said the smoke was so bad that he couldn't see anything in front of him while driving through it. In fact, the police had to shut down the highway for a while. The next day, I witnessed the damage that had been done. Acres and acres of land that looked black, dead, injured.
Today, however, that same land looks green, fresh and vibrant. What a testimony to God's healing power.This is actually what God does in each of our lives. He comes and purifies us. When we accept Him into our lives and place Him in control, He strips our past sins and makes us pure. Malachi talks about the fire "refining them like gold and silver." (Malachi 3:3b). For those who are unaware, precious metals are melted from their original forms to take out their impurities. Just like the grass fire did in that field. The fire took all of the old, dead grass hanging around and purged it.
What "impurities" are you holding on to? Personally, I know I continue to struggle with giving God complete control. I continually hold onto those things I think I need. I have many walls built up that I know need to be blown away. Lately, I've been praying that God help me let go, when what I realize I should be praying for is "God take them, their yours." My heart may feel like that burnt, black field, full of dead sins which I struggle to let go of, but I know that there are fields of lush green waiting for me to embrace.
Are you struggling letting go of your "impurities?" God does not want us to be in this state. He wants us lush with the promise of new life with Him if we only accept it. I pray for myself and you that we would all let go of that which is keeping us from fully submitting to God and keeping us from the new life He has promised each of us.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Music Monday - Moms
Ok, so I know that tomorrow is Monday. I couldn't resist pre-posting this to give everyone a Mother's Day gift.The first time I heard this song, my heart leaped (literally). I was feeling pretty down. Washing the floors for the millionth time that week. Wondering, what was I doing? Feeling like a dirty dish rag in the sink. Would the kids just be quiet for 5 minutes? The baby was just little and still waking up twice at night. My DD was having melt downs and Thomas, well he was just his usually obstinate, stubborn self. I started to day dream. What would my life have been like if I had pursued my dream career in law? Then I heard the words.....
They made me put my life into perspective. Yes, things may seem tough, not glamorous and thankless, but they were with a purpose. To raise my children to the best of my ability with the Lord's help. To focus on the little moments, not always on the big picture. To take advantage of: that little smile, when Sam flirts with me; Thomas' kissing contests; and Nicole's enthusiasm of learning that matches my own.
If you're a stay at home mom, the world looks down upon you. They take away your value and your importance. The world only looks at success and what you can "bring to the table." But remember, you're a Mother. You have a purpose. You are important and valuable. You hold God's gift in your hands and mold it with His assistance. You're guiding the future, no matter what the future may hold. YOU ARE CHANGING THE WORLD!
You’re up all night with a screaming baby
You run all day at the speed of life
And every day you feel a little bit less
like the beautiful woman you are
So you fall into bed when you run out of hours
and you wonder if anything worth doing got done
Well maybe you just don’t know
or maybe you’ve forgotten
That you, you are changing the world
one little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh you, you may not see it now
but I believe that time will tell
how you, you are changing the world
one little heartbeat at a time
With every, “I know you can do it”
and every tear that you kiss away
So many little things that seem to go unnoticed
they’re just like the drops of rain
over time, they become a river
And you, you are changing the world
one little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh you, you may not see it now
but I believe that time will tell
how you, you are changing the world
one little heartbeat at a time
You’re beautiful, so beautiful
how you’re changing the world, yeah you’re changing the world
You, you are changing the world
one little heartbeat at a time
Making history with every touch and every smile
Oh you, you may not see it now
but I believe that time will tell
how you, you are changing the world
I believe that you, you are changing the world
one little heartbeat at a time
Tomorrow, go and share your Music Monday with Shawntele at Saved by Grace.
PS - Happy Mother's Day my friends.
PS - Happy Mother's Day my friends.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Wednesday's Voice - Egypt
Young Christian convert attacked with acid in Egypt
Several weeks ago, militant Muslims armed with acid attacked Dina El-Gohary, a 15-year-old Egyptian convert to Christianity. Dina has faced serious harassment since her father, Maher El-Gohary (57), declared his conversion to Christianity and his desire to change the religious designation on his official documents
Pray that Dina will be encouraged and strengthened by God's sustaining grace.
Pray for protection for her and her father.
Pray that they will both grow in Christlikeness through their trials(James 1:2-4).
Pray that persecutors throughout Egypt will be challenged by the consistent testimony of Christ's followers and be drawn to Him.
Several weeks ago, militant Muslims armed with acid attacked Dina El-Gohary, a 15-year-old Egyptian convert to Christianity. Dina has faced serious harassment since her father, Maher El-Gohary (57), declared his conversion to Christianity and his desire to change the religious designation on his official documents
Pray that Dina will be encouraged and strengthened by God's sustaining grace.
Pray for protection for her and her father.
Pray that they will both grow in Christlikeness through their trials(James 1:2-4).
Pray that persecutors throughout Egypt will be challenged by the consistent testimony of Christ's followers and be drawn to Him.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Sunshine Smiling at Me!
This Sunday, during a horribly drizzly grey weekend, I woke up to two beautiful things, my blog change over (Thank you Louise) and my first compliment and Sunny award from Karinann.At Christmas I won a free header and favicon during Louise's Christmas Giveaway. I've waited very patiently for them both, as Louise got sick and then busy. I know I've gushed about Louise before, but if you're looking for a makeover, free tutorials or even digital scrapbooks, you should check her out. She is different from other designers because she creates her own designs and graphics, as well as being very reasonable for all that she does. She is a very generous and lovely soul, who God has placed in my life because He knows I'm technically challenged.
Karinann is one of the lovely women I have met through Music Monday's. She always has such beautiful and uplifting musical choices and she always has positive comments. I enjoy getting to learn a little bit more about her every week.
Now, as with all Blog Awards, there are some rules.
1. Put the logo on your blog and/or within your post.
2. Pass the award on to twelve bloggers.
3. Link to the nominees within your post.
4. Let them know they received this award by commenting on their blog.
5. Share the love and the link to the person from whom you received this award
Here are lovely women I'm going to share my "Sunshine" with. They are people who have inspired me, continue to inspire me or who I'm excited to get to know (this is in no particular order).
1. Louise, Well That's Just Terrific
2. Amber, Striving for 31
3. Kelly Jo, Dinner Table Musings
4. Ruth, Celebrate Friendships
5. Cindy, She Sparkles
6. Denise, Victory Road
7. Andrea, Under Grace Over Coffee
8. Kela, Pursuing What is Excellent
9. Cheri, Praying Wife's Club
10. Marcia, Blessed Mom's Simple Home
11. Anne, Like Shower's on New Grass
12. Donnetta, My Quiet Corner
I hope you enjoy their blogs as much as I do.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Music Monday - Change
There are changes going on around here. Not just with the blog, but with my life and how I'm living it. I continue to struggle with things that I've been struggling with for along time, but I'm working on letting them go through Christ who saves me.In strict logic, then, nothing happened to the meat when it was offered up to an idol. It's just like any other meat. I know that, and you know that. But knowing isn't everything. If it becomes everything, some people end up as know-it-alls who treat others as know-nothings. Real knowledge isn't that insensitive. We need to be sensitive to the fact that we're not all at the same level of understanding in this. Some of you have spent your entire lives eating "idol meat," and are sure that there's something bad in the meat that then becomes something bad inside of you. An imagination and conscience shaped under those conditions isn't going to change overnight. (1 Corinthians 8:6-8 Msg)
Like the verse states, I've been eating "idol meat" for along time. There are times when I'm praying regularly and studying regularly that I feel the change should be there. RIGHT THERE at that time. I struggle when I look in my prayer journal, and the confessions that I had 2 years ago are the same things that I continue to struggle with. But there is change. Just to acknowledge that some of the things in my life have been unhealthy is a HUGE change. If you are struggling with God's timing, as sometimes I do, just know that it doesn't happen over night. I'm a testimony to this. You may not see the changes going on, but God knows that changes are happening. In fact, He's cheering you on.
We can trust in God to help us in whatever "idol" we're facing because He NEVER changes. He is always there for us. Always willing to pick us up when we fall on our faces (AMEN!). Always willing to forgive us when we do wrong. Always there to hold us when you think you can't go on another day the way you are.
Jesus doesn't change—yesterday, today, tomorrow, he's always totally himself (Hebrews 13:8 Msg)
2 Cor. 5:17, 3:18
Well I got myself a T-shirt that says what I believe
I got letters on my bracelet to serve as my ID
I got the necklace and the key chain
And almost everything a good Christian needs, yeah
I got the little Bible magnets on my refrigerator door
And a welcome mat to bless you
before you walk across my floor
I got a Jesus bumper sticker
And the outline of a fish stuck on my car
And even though this stuff's all well and good, yeah
I cannot help but ask myself ...
What about the change
What about the difference
What about the grace
What about forgiveness
What about a life that's showing
I'm undergoing the change, yeah
I'm undergoing the change
Well I've got this way of thinking that comes so naturally
Where I believe the whole world is revolving around me
And I got this way of living that I
have to die to every single day
'Cause if God's Spirit lives inside of me, yeah
I'm gonna live life differently
I'm gonna have the change
I'm gonna have the difference
I'm gonna have the grace
I'm gonna have forgiveness
I'm gonna live a life that's showing
I'm undergoing the change
What about the change
What about the difference
What about the grace
What about forgiveness
I want to live a life that's showing
I'm undergoing the change
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Change is a coming.....
Keep watching. Winds of change are coming to the Prairies.
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- Michelle
- Alberta, Canada
- I'm a 39 year old (oh yeah I'm telling you my age) Stay at Home mom. A former Bad Girl now reformed sinner, I'm married to my Y2K guy and raising 3 great children from God. Proudly Canadian, however, missing the West Coast, I currently live in the prairies watching the farmers fields produce as I learn how God produces the fruits in me.
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