Monday Meditations: The Wiles of a Woman

If there's one thing that is fascinating about having children, it's the blatant display of sin nature from birth.  Many say that kids are innocent and such, and perhaps they are to a degree.  But there is no doubt they are sinners waiting for their bodies/minds to catch up so they can follow their own desires.  Has anyone ever had to teach their kids to lie, not share, boast in themselves, hit/bite out of anger, etc.?  I think not.  And if someone did teach their kids how to do things like that, there's a much bigger problem!  :-P

It's always been a sad transition for me when my children have reached that age in toddlerhood where you start seeing WILLFUL disobedience -- as in, contemplation of disobedience, how to do it, how to get away with it, how to smooth things over in order to avoid discipline.  Both my boys hit that phase.  But now my little girl has hit that phase.  And let me tell you...just as there have been many other gender differences in watching my kids grow up, this is another one!

Boys?  They are just outright disobedient.  There might be some mischief mixed in here and there, but neither of my sons has ever tried to schmooze their way out of anything.  They either run away and hide, throw a fit of anger at being disciplined, or they man up and take it, knowing they did wrong.  But my sweet, adorable girl?  Nuh-uh.  I've now seen that no one has to teach a female how to be, well, female.  Let me give you an example.

One of our biggest issues with Snickers lately is that she is very skillful in taking off her pants and diaper, generally at the most inconvenient times like sleeping time or playtime when Mommy has to be doing other things.  We know that she knows it's a no-no.  She's reached a point where we have realized it has to become a discipline issue.  Apparently, she's also reached the point where she knows what we'll do if we find her diaper-less.  Yesterday, I went into her room at naptime after peeking in and seeing a (cute!) bare bottom.  She stood up in her crib, all smiles with sparkly eyes and chatter-boxed away at me.  I had "the talk" with her about her disobedience, and picked her up out of her crib.  In that motion of lifting her out, she immediately gave me a huge smooch on the cheek followed by a heart-melting giggle.  ARGH!  Must fight the warm fuzzies so she'll see disobedience is serious!!  Today?  Yeah.  Caught her naked again.  So what does she do when I walk up to her crib to commence "the talk" again?  She lays there and gives me a coy little wave of the hand with a Mona Lisa grin.  ARGH!  Stop that!  "Did you disobey Mommy and take your diaper off?"  No answer except another wave and a soft, cheerful "Hiii!"  I did follow through with the talk, but boy is she good at trying to melt my heart into a puddle of gooey love!  She's GOT to learn that Mommy has a Rock at the center of my melted heart...and I have to obey that Rock even if the talks aren't fun for either of us.

It's all been very eye opening to me and has made me ponder the wiles of women (a great example of this is in Proverbs 5).  Even at almost 2 years old, my female child knows how to manipulate, look cute, schmooze,  cry big tears, yell at you when she's not getting her way, and speak sweetly to distract you from the truth.  Just this morning, she actually used her finger and voice in a tsk-tsk fashion at her brother for touching her stuffed kitty!  Kinda scary.  Especially knowing that sin unhindered exponentially grows each year it is allowed to keep root in the heart.  Time to don the battle armor and fight for my baby girl, praying that she'll channel her femininity to honor Christ and become His warrior princess!

Monday Meditations: The Most Buying Power

Part of the wonder of the Bible and doctrines of the Christian faith is that there is always something new to learn, a new perspective to view.  You can read the same verse or hear the same principle over and over and yet hear it anew time after time.  It is impossible to exhaust the depths of Scripture and to know God wholly this side of heaven.  How awesome!  With that...

For years, I've believed that Christ died for my sins.  That He purchased me with His blood.  My sins are forgiven.  I'm part of His church.  He saved His own from eternal damnation.  Etc.  But Pastor Leake put two thoughts together and gave a fresh perspective on Christ's work on the cross.

"What did Christ do on the cross?  He purchased His church."


Seems like a simple question and answer.  But when you put deep thought into it, this perspective brings instant humility.  Here's the train of thought:

What did Christ do on the cross?  He purchased His church.
Purchased with what?  His very life.
Purchased from what?  Eternal damnation, separation from God, fiery punishment.
Who is the church?  A select group of people who believe in Jesus Christ and follow Him as Lord.
Who selects?  God the Father.
Based upon what?  Nothing that we have done.  It was His choice.
So then why on earth did He choose me to be a part of this select group that was purchased?  Uh....

Christ spilled His blood and endured the agony of the cross to purchase His church, a group of sinful human beings, from the eternal punishment we all deserve.  What He did removed His followers from the world and set them apart, righteous in God's eyes based upon nothing we have done but upon what Christ did.  Who am I to forget how AMAZING that is?  How precious salvation is!  How undeserving I am of God's grace and mercy -- and yet He still gives it!

With His death, Jesus Christ bought my soul from Satan's realm.  What an amazing perspective in which to present the work of the Cross.

Oh, victory in Jesus,
My Savior forever
He sought me and bought me
With His redeeming blood
He loved me ere I knew Him
And all my love is due Him

Monday Meditations: Young Marriage

I get daily emails from The Generous Wife with tips and ideas of how to bless my Hubby and our marriage. Every Saturday, the tip has something to do with the intimacy of marriage as well as a list of blog posts The Generous Wife found interesting that week. I read one that caught my eye and that led to another post that caught my eye. PLEASE read it - Young Marriage.

Simply astounding, huh? It bucks against so much that even those in my own tight circle might have learned and even hold to. I myself was memorably told by two adults when I was engaged that I was too young -- that I needed to "get out in the world" and "experience the world for myself" before I married. "Have a career, see what it's like." Really? I'm supposed to be separate from the world, and yet you want me to experience it before I marry?

I love each of the points the author brings out in his article. They all make perfect sense. One thing I wish he had noted is that marriages in Bible times were young -- maybe even younger than what the author is pushing for. Girls didn't get jobs first, travel abroad, and only then start desiring a husband. It was the men who got the jobs, worked hard to prepare a place for himself and a bride, and then married a young lady who was ready to be a wife and mother. Sounds like a fairy tale!

In this day and age, it is a fairy tale. There's one thing that flies in the face of the Young Marriage article. Did you perhaps think it while reading? Or did you even say it out loud because you were so shocked at the argument for young marriage among "kids these days"? Yeah, I thought it, too.

But most teens and young adults these days aren't ready for marriage! They are too immature and self-focused!

Indeed. Even I look back at who I was as a 22 year old bride, and wow. I was a baby! But why do I feel that way? Because I have 7 years, 5 moves, and 3 precious children under my belt (among a host of other smaller events). That'll do wonders to your maturity all around! It's exactly how we learn, grow, and flourish -- living life. Nice how God set it up that way, huh? :-) And if I compare my 18 year old self with my 22 year old self, I would say there is even MORE of a difference between those two people than my 22 year old and 29 year old self. My college years completely transformed who I was. I went in a bubbly, naive, boy-crazy (as in crazy looking for a godly husband), dramatic girl. I graduated a mellow, independent, life-loving engaged young woman. I admit, sometimes I miss the Anne-girl part of me. I know it's still deep inside. But at the same time, she doesn't really have a huge role in my life anymore. I mean, look at how much Anne changed through life experience from that fiery red-headed orphan to the poised young lady! From a Christian point of view, isn't that exactly what is promised in James 1:2-4?

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish it's work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

It is life itself that has the potential to mature the Christian. It's full of trials of varying degrees that can shape and hone various edges of who we are. How important it is to note that this happens throughout ALL of life. The shaping and honing happens to 5 year olds, 15 year olds, 25 year olds, 35 year olds, 45 year olds.... you get my point. So who is society - and many Christians - to say "You're too young to get married. You need to experience the world (aka be more mature and knowledgeable of how things work)." And don't even get me started on how young people should "work and save up money" before they marry. (Then you're saying money is more important than fulfilling God's command for us to marry and be fruitful. "But it's foolish to not prepare financially..." Sure, but blah blah blah. My hubby and I had $800 in our combined accounts when we got married and no official job for our first month of marriage. But God provided a timeline for our story that involved marriage before money... see, you got me started on the topic!)

What do I think the answer is? If I'm going to agree with the young marriage concept, how do I account for the immaturity of young adults these days? Well, I can only speak from the Christian perspective of a mother aiming to rear children who will honor the Lord with their lives. And that's the key! A great deal of why teens and young adults do not "seem" ready for marriage is because parents have failed to prepare them! Too many families are so busy -- both parents work, extracurricular activities consume family time, and the TV sucks up what time is left. God graciously set up life so that it matures us as we move through it -- and as a Christian parent, it is my privilege and responsibility to guide and support each of my children as they move through their lives. To help them process each trial that comes their way so that it does produce maturity rather than hardness or flippancy. Children left to themselves will be raised by their flesh -- and those children are the ones who will never be ready for the self-sacrificing, other-focused act of marriage. Children who are lovingly led through life and constantly directed towards the Savior as their ultimate Guide will be raised by the Spirit -- and those children are the ones who WILL be ready for marriage regardless of their age. Sure, there might be some flaws here and there. But you, my reader... are YOU perfectly responsible in your marriage? Are YOU perfectly responsible with your money? Do YOU always make the right decisions? And how old are you? How long have you been married? Yeah, that's what I thought. ;-)

It's a vicious cycle Satan has created. He's been quite clever at tearing the family apart, as noted in Young Marriage. As he gets parents to leave the picture, kids raise themselves. Then parents see their kids are too immature to marry and make them wait. Kids do wait and open themselves up to "experiencing the world" -- ending up with all kinds of baggage that they bring to marriage (not all sexual, either). Which leads to tough marriages and often divorce. Which means the kids of that marriage have a higher chance of being left to raise themselves and have not-so-good examples to follow... and it goes on and on.

I may have been "young" at 22. But I felt that I was perfectly ready for marriage. And I suppose my parents did, too. And obviously God, too, since it happened! ;-) And there has been NOTHING more joyous than to experience the world and life with my husband. Both he and I arrived in marriage with very little baggage. We have an incredibly strong, loving, growing, passionate relationship. Praise GOD! And we're just living life together -- always with a best friend and lover by our side to help us through whatever comes, good or bad. To me, that seems WAY better than voluntarily experiencing the world and life alone until I'm 30. Which is kind of a scary thought to me, actually. (What if God plans a late marriage? Note the emphasis on "voluntarily"... then hold your horses until the last paragraph of my post.)

So if you are a Christian parent, commit to raising your children to be godly and mature. Talk with them. Be involved in what life throws at them and help them process Biblically. Always remind them that their lives are to be lived for God's glory, not for self. If our focus is to point them to Christ, then we can trust Him to bring them to the level of maturity needed for young marriage, if the Lord wills. How wonderful to see our children get to live more years with someone they love AND be saved from a host of baggage that can come with late marriage!

And remember for yourself... God has written each person's love story. If your child's love story begins at 19, trust Him. If your other child's love story begins at 30, trust Him. Either way, be there for your children, pray often, and enjoy being a character in God's script for them!

Monday Meditation: Family, Builders, & Termites... Oh my!

Life motto ad nauseam: "Life is an adventure." That's what I always say. And I generally have stories to prove it.

Take the past couple days for instance. This week was going to be a pretty calm week in a sense that there was not much going on at all out of the norm. Just a fun lunch with Grandma Robin on Wednesday. All of the sudden this is what my week holds and the stories behind how this week's schedule came to be:

FAMILY

Finalization of tickets for my grandmother and little sister to arrive here tomorrow. Sudden but oh so fun! Nonie is coming to care for her mom (my great grandmother) as she has been having some heart trouble this past week. Nonie will come back to stay a night next week before returning to her home. Hope is coming just to spend two weeks with our family -- so fun and so helpful to us as we keep trying to get settled!

BUILDERS

The work on our home seems to have been dragging out longer than we expected. Sounds normal, though. :-) We haven't seen Bob the Builders for a while, most likely due to the rain we've gotten lately. I found out this morning that gutters will be done tomorrow morning and garage doors mid-day. Woo hoo! And speaking of garage doors...

TERMITES

I knew Terminix would be coming today to do a routine pest spray because we have a small ant problem and a weird rolly polly problem (they used to be cute until I started sweeping up about 15-20 per day...and can I say I am SOOOO thankful none of my children like to pick up small things and put them in their mouths!). So I wasn't alarmed at the knock on my door between 1:00 - 3:00. Expecting a man, I was a little surprised to see a woman. You don't really ever see a bug woman, just the "bug man." What surprised me even more was when she said, "Hi, I'm Dawn Marie with Terminix." I'm sorry, what did you say? "Uh, I'm Dawn Marie with Terminix, here to do your free termite inspection." I'm sorry, did you say your name was Dawn Marie? "Yeees?" As in d.a.w.n. m.a.r.i.e.? "Yeeees?" She was pretty hesitant at this point. Is Marie your middle or last name? "Middle. ??" I finally explained (and apologized) that I was quite shocked... because that's my exact name, too. We had a good laugh, and I tried to become un-awkwardified so as to move on with the appointment. And became clear that she was not here to spray but to give the free termite inspection that comes with any Terminix service (who knew?). But that's not all. The next surprise came when she found evidence of active termites in the garage door frames (which are being ripped out tomorrow, perhaps Providence?). May I educate my readers and say that in order to purchase this foreclosed home, it had to pass termite inspection -- and it did. So someone fouled up. (Please submit the following days to prayer as we try to sort through this and hopefully not get docked a sum of money for treatment. The Lord's will be done, though.) Hence, add termite treatment to Wednesday. **ADDENDUM** The "bug man" was just here. Not only did he ask if I was tired and point out the dark circles under my eyes, he also complimented me on my laptop and giggled throughout his time here as he remembered the new term "rolly polly." He said his vocabulary is ever increasing. I said "rolly polly" is more quaint than "pill bug." Despite the ick in this world, sometimes it can be so fun to interact with strangers! It's refreshing when you find a few who are a pleasure to meet!

3) Hubz is bringing home three co-worker friends for lunch on Friday -- I'm looking forward to it! He works with some great guys, and one of them I haven't met yet... the one who gets to share a cubicle with my Love!

Add to that small group and band, normal duties of wife and mommy, 3 nursing covers, house management... We're full up, Sweetcheeks.

But I'm gonna roll with it. Because God is in control. He has written each page of my story. I've been through crazier weeks (like the one before our big move!). And I'm alive, well, happy, and growing. Shoot -- I even got up early and did yoga this morning! Started the day with an answer to prayer, that I would start meeting a new goal!

Oh yeah. The HVAC guy is supposed to be here in 30 minutes. I need to figure out dinner. And the prospect of me being able to read for small group tonight is looking VERY slim now.

Keep focused on what is of supreme importance, and life with be an overall joyous adventure!

But seek first HIS KINGDOM and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. - Matthew 6:33-34

Monday Meditations: Thoughts of Home

As our move gets closer, I'm starting to see various emotions quietly rising within myself. I'm thankful that they are not strong enough to appear outwardly but are more for my personal reflection and dealing. Sometimes it's nice to have private moments with my heart as I process this huge transition in my family's life.

And here I am sharing those private moments. :-) I feel that I've kept them to myself for a sufficient time.

Things I will miss that I never thought I would miss this much...

-Seeing bunny rabbits and all kinds of birds (with an occasional groundhog or deer) romping through the backyard. It has been so sweet to be so close to God's creation in this way. Especially those bunnies in the spring. I don't think I would ever tire of seeing them!

-The neighborhood kids, though even if we stayed here, I think others are moving soon anyway.

-The neighborhood adults. This is the first place we've lived where we've gotten to know our neighbors. Not on a hugely personal level, but I could tell you about the families in 10 homes around us. (Maybe I'll profile them in a future post for posterity.) One of our prayers when we moved here was that God would give us opportunity to get to know even just our next door neighbors. He answered...and exceeded. (Please pray with us for the same to happen in our new neighborhood!)

-I must give a special shout out to missing my Home Boy Jamie -- a fellow stay-at-home (dad) Arkansan across from our house. He and his family have been fun to know and good for our boys to play with for the exposure to inter-racial friendship as well as interacting with someone who has a speech impediment. They sure do love 10 yr old Dante and have not a care in the world that he is hard to understand. If only we all could learn from children and their ability to overlook differences. ::tries to stay off soapbox and keep focused::

-The quietness.

-All the trees.

-Easy access to walking trails and "our" park.

Things I never thought I was missing that I realize are going to be wonderful...

-A garage. I have NEVER lived in a house with a garage (that I remember anyway). Won't ever have to bring groceries or kids inside through the rain or snow. Bikes will no longer be in my entryway. No more clearing snow, ice, or pollen off the cars. Which leads to...

-A driveway. We've never had a driveway in our married life. We get to wash our cars in our own driveway! WOW! A place for my kids to ride in circles or play games without being in other people's way on the sidewalk.

-A pool. Seriously...the pool is a mystery to me. I STILL have random moments when I say to myself, "Oh yeah. I forgot. It has a pool. Really??" I'm thankful for those moments because it shows me that the pool was not the selling point for me. But really? I have no idea what it's going to be like to have a pool in MY backyard (or the cost of maintenance for that matter...). I'm so glad I have "lifeguard" under my job belt! At least I'm not totally in the dark about pools. :-)

-A porch. A nice place to sit while my kids play in the fenced in front yard. No more sitting on random railroad ties or standing around.

-A guest suite. I'm still so humbled that the Lord would allow us to have a home that has a guest suite in it. No more moving cribs or beds around to fit an air mattress or telling people they can either sleep on the couch, get a hotel, or stay with our friends.

-Our own mailbox. First time in our marriage to not have one blocked with other people's.

-Non-creaky stairs.

-A laundry room UPSTAIRS. Oh my word. Is it really going to happen??? My Hubz has always been dead set against it for liability reasons. But a couple weeks ago, he all of the sudden asked, "What would you think about moving the laundry upstairs to the small room?" ::picks self up off floor:: He was serious. And tonight he even called our plumber friend from church to talk about the process and when it will happen. ::stunned:: For REAL? No more hauling hampers up and down stairs? Are we really about to mostly remedy the chore that seems to be the number one enemy of my back?? Which leads to...

-New MATTRESS!!!!!! After 7 years of sleeping on a $50 king sized pillow top mattress that the Lord seriously blessed us with by way of a second hand store, He is allowing us to get a new mattress. Are we really about to maybe completely remedy another enemy to my back?? (And, thanks to the Lord's timing, we were able to get a free queen mattress for the guest suite!)

Things I had no idea would cause so much mental strain...

-Choosing a washer and dryer. HAS to be the HARDEST decision in this whole process. Maybe even harder than the house itself. Dumb, right? :-P But really, when you think about it, the washer and dryer are probably my most used and needed electronic servants. So to be the one choosing to spend the money on the two machines I will spend A LOT of time with for hopefully many years...daunting and overwhelming. Especially with the myriad of reviews out there on brand, front loader vs. top loader, drum size, noise level, reliability, etc. etc. ETC. It seriously could drive one's self insane.

-Um, I really think the washer/dryer has been the biggest point of stress for me. Get back to me in a few weeks after we've gone through contracting work at the house as well as the actual move. ;-)

This Monday meditation is meant to be a picture of how we are to give thanks in ALL things. How God cares for the big things AND the small things in our lives. If He cares for every sparrow and lily, how much more does He care for His children? I mean, really, a mailbox? Who cares about a mailbox? But it's just proof that we can and should take delight in the small things just as much as the big things. All that we have is from Him. He has given us an abundant life. We would be remiss if we took advantage of it and did not ponder just how incredible His detailed care is.

Am I scared of moving into this house? Yes. Why? Because this is a HUGE step for our family, especially financially and from a home management perspective. But need I be afraid? No. Why? Because we have prayed for wisdom and guidance time and time again throughout this process and have kept open hands and hearts as best we can tell. And God has promised to give wisdom when we seek it and has promised to guide our steps if we seek His will. His fingerprint is all over this purchase and move. ALL the glory is due to Him. The people involved, the exact timing of every phone call, the babysitters, each home we chose to see...He orchestrated it all. I pray we never forget how much we learned of our Great & Good Provider during this time. And I pray that we will have many years of thanking Him and giving back by way of hospitality to many!

Starting with our out-of-town families in just two weeks! :-D

Monday Meditation: 5 D's

Duty & Drudgery. Desire & Daily.

One of the books I'm currently reading is Respectable Sins by Jerry Bridges. The women in my small group have just started going through it together, and it's been a book I've wanted to read for quite some time. Yeah for the "requirement" to now read it! :-) Today's meditation comes from one of the introductory chapters.

We are commanded to put sin to death. It is our duty to do so. But duty without desire soon produces drudgery. And it is the truth of the gospel, reaffirmed in our hearts daily, that puts desire into our duty. It is the gospel that stokes the fire of our motivation to deal with our respectable and subtle sins. It is the gospel that motivates us to seek to be in our daily experiences what we are in our standing before God.

(p. 36)

Over the years, I've had opportunity to have a few deep spiritual conversation in which I stepped on one of my soap boxes...that I dearly wish I would remember to stand on for myself every day! Faith is a choice we make each day. It goes along with the oft-heard quote Bridges mentions, "Preach the gospel to yourself every day." Yes, there is the initial step of faith in which salvation is brought to our souls by believing in Jesus Christ as our Savior from sin and death. But then there is the daily choice to have faith that Jesus Christ WILL continue His sanctifying work, ridding your soul's soil of the dead roots of sin.

Following are some questions that convict me -- I wish I thought about them every day!

-How often do I remember that I am not alone in my battle against sin? That I have been FREED from sin and do NOT have to succumb to it? That in my own power, I will fail over and over and over? That if I am led by the Spirit, I will walk by the Spirit? ::ouch, ouch, ouch, ouch:: ...ouch.

-As I move throughout my day, how often do I even think about Christ and what He did on the cross? Do I remind myself of the finality of His death and resurrection? That I am eternally forgiven for sins I haven't even committed yet?

-How often do I remember that He could come back for me in the very next breath I take? Or that I could meet Him in my sleep tonight? Now, think of that answer in light of how sinful I am each day.

-How often do I remember that the Holy Spirit is living WITHIN me, ready and willing to help me overcome the impatience, anger, laziness, selfishness, and pride that well up at a moment's notice?

-When I pray, why do I so often pray as if I'm talking to a God who is "out there" far away in heaven? If the Holy Spirit is within me, God is closer than "near" me! I think it is very unfortunate how many (including myself) are programmed to pray to God, as in God the Father. How often do I pray to God the Son, praising Him for what He did for me? How often do I pray to God the Holy Spirit, thanking Him for His comfort and guidance and asking for increasing conviction and purification?

-If God the Spirit is dwelling within me, why do I not see the ugliness of my sin all the more? Why do I not think this each day and use it to put desire in my duty to dig up and throw out the sin in my soul? The Most Holy of the universe living in an ugly, unkempt garden with unfathomable potential? Get to work, woman!!

Duty is done much more quickly and completely when desire is behind it!!!

Remembering Christ has saved me once for all and the Holy Spirit is walking with me in sanctification SHOULD put desire in my duty to eradicate sin. Battling sin is far to often a drudgery for me...because I don't remember my Savior often enough. It's too easy for life to choke out Life. Husband, kids, meals, laundry, dust, germs, appointments, friends, service, events, TV, email, Facebook, packing, lack of sleep, hormones, SIN... My life is packed. My brain seemingly overloaded. Or is it just not organized properly?

Enter the 5th D.

discipline.

::groooooaaaan:: I loath the word. Only because I know JUST how important it is to life and godliness. And how HARD it is to obtain.

I need to discipline my mind to remember the Gospel each day. Discipline my brain into thinking each day on what God has done for me, that I am already free from sin, that the Holy Spirit within me will help me choose righteousness each time I am tempted to sin, that getting rid of sin should be a daily desirous duty rather than a drudgery.

And I betcha that once I, with the Spirit's help, can discipline myself to remember the Gospel each day and have daily faith that Christ will continue His work in me, sin will fall OUT of place and everything else will fall INTO place. Where sin is absent, holy freedom reigns.

Rather than allowing life to choke out Life, I need to let Life run my life. Daily.

**EDIT**

Ok, so I wrote this post right after I read the opening quote. Then I finished reading the chapter. I was shocked to read the very same thoughts I had put in this post, especially concerning the Holy Spirit. What a beautiful affirmation of my thought process. See? Proof that He is living within me, helping me to grow. :-)

And one quote that made me laugh outloud...because it's soooo true: "If we are prone to sinful anger, there will be circumstances that trigger our anger." HA! Thanks for the three kids, Lord. ;-) He sure does know exactly what we need to sanctify us where we need sanctifyin' - amen?

Monday Meditations: Getting One Thing Straight

I got a very nice message from a dear college friend the other day. She's in a bit of a rough patch with a brood of little Warriors to raise as well as a new pregnancy complete with the fun symptoms. :-P Here's part of what she said...

So, I have a question for you! How do you do it all? I see all of your blog posts, menus, laundry tips, etc. and think...wow, I wish I was as talented as Dawn! I am a pretty organized person, but I just feel like you have it together so much better.

Let's get one thing straight... I. do. NOT. have. it. together. :-)

The problem with the virtual world is that we can pick and choose what we let others see. Granted, you can do that face to face with someone as well. But, ah, with the virtual world, editing of self is endless! Who in their right mind would post "I yelled at my son today just because he wouldn't go up the stairs when I told him to" or "I ate chips the other afternoon when I wasn't truly hungry" or "I was disgruntled when my husband said I couldn't get a new hamper for the boys' room" or "I napped for an hour and a half rather than a quick cat nap and then taking care of responsibilities" (See, four imperfections right off the top of my head...and there's a lot more I could post!) No, most of us, except for a few rare jewels of honesty, choose to post the tips, the funnies, the pictures, the Bible verses, and so on. Sure paints a pretty picture, huh?

I'd like to share my response to my sweet friend to help paint, not an ugly or pretty picture, but a PROPER picture...

Girl, there are SO many things I need to improve upon. What you see on my blog or FB is by God's grace, whether I learned it through Home Ec, other women or resources, or figured it out along the way.

I fail EVERY day. Misplaced priorities, laziness, anger/impatience with my boys... I could give you a laundry list of failures. I think we're only on week 7 or so of our preschool. And it's been 6 MONTHS since we started. :-P Laundry always piles up. Dusting happens maybe once a month. Bathrooms are cleaned every 2-3 weeks (maybe?). Menu planning is a chore -- ugh. I have good intentions to do things after bedtime, but once I sit to nurse Eden one last time, my body hits the "I'm actually sitting down and now I'm tired" wall.

So now that I've blown holes in how you apparently view me... ;-)

If I may borrow an old adage: Those who fail are those who fail to try.

And to add to that, we can only try and keep trying by God's strength. He's promised not to give us anything He won't also give us the tools and grit to handle. Very humbling to think of all He's blessed us with and then look at the job we are (or aren't) doing. We've been given amazing men to love, support, and aid in this life. We've been charged to raise human beings -- keep them alive and healthy as well as guide them spiritually to the Throne of Salvation. And if that wasn't enough responsibility, tack on home management, meal management, clothes management, cleaning, doc appointments, church stuff, etc. Sheeh! Almost seems like we've been set up to fail.

And yet God gave it all to us. Therefore, we CAN handle it. But only in HIS strength. Can't stress that enough for the both of us. By being His daughters, we're set up for success rather than failure. We just have to choose to take what is already there! (Wow, I think I'm preaching to myself!)

My mom has always told me "Just do the next thing" when I'm having a rough time physically or emotionally. This is definitely just a season for you. One that is well worth it since you're [insert your own personal struggle here]! Do what you can, ask for help, and let go of the rest. As long as your family is alive and healthy, that's what matters! People, including yourself, are more important than folded laundry or clean windows.

Let me raise my glass of lukewarm water while in my wrinkled shirt and spit-up, snotty jeans as I say: "Here's to wives and moms -- may we remember that our Father has set us up for success and not failure. We just have to choose to do it all for Him and that will put success in our grasp!"

Monday Meditation: One of the Best Analogies

Last week was kinda rough on me because I felt like there were days I was doing so well spiritually but then all of the sudden would snap at the smallest thing. This weekend was very busy and stressful (in a good way), but I found myself not responding with my usual "on-top-of-it-all" and "roll-with-it" mentality. I was floundering on the inside, easily overwhelmed and frustrated, feeling like many things were getting the better of me -- like the serious lack of 9 month dresses at both Kohls and Target (as just one minor example). Or how about the two people that approached me at random in Kohls -- while I was frustratedly trying to locate just ONE 9 month dress -- to convince me that there are two images of God, male and female. Don't even get me started on the conversation that took place. Or the mix-up with Elijah's inhaler medication, which meant my very first time to be truly anxious about his night coughing knowing I had no albuterol to give him. I could give you a long list of things that I felt didn't go well for me this past week and weekend. But I won't. I'll just focus on why I felt like a little mouse trying to stay afloat in a raging river. And one analogy that became precious to me in my weakest moment last evening.

Hormones. Ugh! It's been a long time since I've had to undergo the normal routine of the ever fluctuating female hormones. The farther Eden's birth plummets all too quickly into the past, the closer my body is to being back to it's normal mode of operation. And I don't think I'm ready to battle the moodiness, the quick temper, the pin-drop tears. (I mean, come on. Colts' Collie got injured and lay on the field not moving for a minute or so -- and I found myself quite choked up with tear-filled eyes. It was all I could do to not melt down!) I may not be ready, but the Spirit within me is ready to help me relearn how to fight this battle as it comes round and round again for years to come. That is a great comfort to me. And you wanna know what else is a great comfort to me?

My hubby. Last night, I came VERY close several times to cancelling my attendance at a ladies' cookie exchange. All who know me know that it would be extremely unusual for me to 1) not attend a social event, 2) not show up to something I committed to, 3) not take cookies I've already baked to share with others, and 4) cancel at the very last minute. But I came oh-so-close. Even while driving to the party, I came dangerously close to turning around and going home. I hated my cookies. I knew my home was a "wreck" (though I'm assured that's not possible...by other people). I missed my husband since we'd had such a busy weekend. I just wanted to be with him. Even if we were straightening, cleaning, and having a financial meeting, I just wanted to be with him. My Love. The man who brings me much comfort, laughter, security, warmth, and the like. He makes everything seem all right even if there is much turmoil within. (Boy, I'm getting all choked up again.) My hubby is my compassionate companion who gives of himself for me.

And then I got a double dose thought...

How utterly beautiful that my husband serves as an analogy of Christ. Christ is the ultimate Groom. The best Comforter. The One who has given me this abundant life. The One who has made all things right with my soul despite the turmoil it feels. He's the One who holds me eternally secure in the warmth of His embrace. He compassionately accompanies me on this journey through life -- which includes the rough spots. He gave His life so that winning the battles with my flesh is even possible!

God has given me both! An earthly husband AND a heavenly Husband. A double blessing and sure-fire aid during my weakest moments as a woman. Will I still have to do battle over and over again? You betcha!! But praise be to God for the reminder that I am not alone spiritually or physically. I've got two companions to cover both those bases!

To finish the story, I did end up going to the cookie exchange and had a pleasant time. Precious moments were shared with a dear friend as I was finally able to see and hold mementos of Eden's heavenly friend Avery. Excitement was shared as we learned of a new life on the way for another friend. Bittersweetness was also shared. Praise the Lord He made us to be relational. Friends do wonders for the soul. And when I got home -- the kitchen, dining room, living room, and bedroom were all spotless, Christmas cards hung, chandelier reworked to be much better looking... Like I said. God has given me a companion who knows how to ease my battle. What a blessing!

Monday Meditation

"This is reality, not religion." - Pastor Leake

Such a powerful statement. The world without question lumps "Christianity" into that general realm we call religion. But for the Believer in Christ, it is much more than "a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, esp. when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs" (dictionary.com). We do adhere to a set of beliefs etc. and in a superhuman agency (God Himself!), and we do devote ourselves to Him and have the "rituals" of the Lord's Supper and baptism (which by the way do not save us but are expressions of obedience by a heart already justified by Christ). We also have a code of conduct we go by, not a code we made up, but a code given by Almighty God Himself and preserved through the ages. But to us, Christianity is more than rote religion.

It is TRUTH. Which means it is REALITY.

Especially during this Christmas season, it's so important to remember this fact. How easy it is to spout off to your young sons, "We celebrate Christmas because it's Jesus' birthday." Or to sing with your husband carols you've sung since you were a young tyke. Or to get lost in dreaming of opening your daughter's hair bow bands on Christmas morning -- so she can finally have some head decor since her hair follicles are taking their sweet time. Rushing here and there finalizing lists. Attending wonderful Christmas parties and gatherings to celebrate the season. But is all of that reality to you, or just something warm and fuzzy to do every year? Lots of extras come with the Reason for the Season. And unfortunately, the extras are the grit and grime that often muddy the pristine snow.

REALITY: something that constitutes a real or actual thing, as distinguished from something that is merely apparent.

So instead of picturing baby Jesus and His nativity scene as that of your Little People Nativity set, remember...

Mary was a real young woman living her own life, like many of you may know (or be!), when the most glorious being she'd ever seen burst into sight. She heard an angel straight out of heaven tell her she was going to be pregnant -- her life of purity gone in an instant to outsiders looking in but not believing in God's plan. Joseph was a real man who loved this girl Mary, wanting to live his life with her and start a family, when his dreams were suddenly dashed as she told him she had a real baby in her womb with an outlandish story as to why. He also heard the angel tell him of God's plan; and in obedience, he instantly tarnished his own reputation among the outsiders by still taking this "impure" woman as his wife and the "illegitimate" Child as his own. When He was born, Jesus was a real tiny baby with a floppy head, teensy fingers, and little grunts and cries. He nursed, cooed, peed, slept, burped, probably even went cross eyed a few times. Creator-God became the most helpless, precious being on His own earth. He had to learn to walk, talk, eat, play, count, read, dress Himself, trim a beard...all of the things boys grow up doing. All of this was REAL! Just as real as the water He turned to the best wine. As real as the fish and bread that fed 5,000 people. As real as the kiss Judas gave Him. As real as the splinters in His back and thorns on His brow.

As real as His dead body coming back to life, having opened the door for us to enter into His real heaven.

It's too easy for us to tell the "story" of Christmas. Why not first internalize the reality of Christmas? When you hold your baby or play with your kids, think about how Mary did the same with Jesus. That should blow your mind right there -- she KNEW He was God's Son sent to save herself and the world, and yet she was charged with raising the God of the Universe from birth?? That's just one example of the realities we should be focusing on. Oh, what a mysterious majesty this Reason for the Season is!

There's a reason we celebrate. This Christmas, commit to making Christ not just a religion to you, but a reality.

"Mary did you know...when you kiss your little Baby, you've kissed the face of God!"