Shivering through goosebumps as I laid in my window seat–God had gotten my attention. The flashback to when Wade & Bea had prayed over me was suddenly loud and audible, instead of staying in the past. It sept forth into the present and mixed with the word, Eucharisteo— jarring another memory from reading the book 1000 gifts. “Heather, I can barely put it into words, but God wants you to know he is here; he is always there for you. It’s like that feeling of being watched and when you look over your shoulder, you won’t see anyone, but trust …
I Am A Controlling Woman
By Special Guest: Gina Smith We’ve all heard the phrase, “SHE wears the PANTS in THAT family!” We shake our heads and think about how controlling other women can be. But did you know that every time I complain or am discontent with my husband, correct or criticize him, tell him what to do, or interrupt him…I am controlling!? I see it so clearly in others but the truth of the matter is that I am a controller. I wear the pants in my family. It’s a part of who I am. It’s a part of EVERY woman. The Word …
A Mother’s Heart…Unmet Needs
Harried from too many tasks on her day’s schedule, she stumbled into bed, falling asleep almost before her head hit the pillow. Rising in the morning, she had a strange feeling something wasn’t right, but she could not put her finger on it. Dismissing it, she hurriedly dressed and mumbled a few quick prayers. With four kids, one husband, a slew of pets, and a busy calendar, she had plenty to do each day. Throughout her day, thoughts of her weaknesses filled her head: I wish I could handle my time better. I wish I had more strength to meet …
The Irony of the Empty Nest
How painfully hard it is to watch as the momma bird nudge her little babies out of the nest. They desperately try to cling to the wiry branches that had once been meticulously placed there by their parents. It was their home… all they ever knew. They were carefully cared for while they nestled in the twig-lined tree house yet a whole wide world awaited them beyond their little bungalow suspended between two limbs. But it’s time for her babies to soar. It was what they were created for. It’s ironic, you know? You raise them up to let them go. I know …
Recipes from M.O.M.
Pizza Made Healthy Pizza is an all-time favorite for kids and adults, but it doesn’t have to be an artery-clogger to be good. Just change your ingredients a bit and you’ll enjoy the flavor without all the fat. INGREDIENTS: (Add your favorite veggies – here’s what we like) 2 Whole wheat pre-made crust 1 Jar Pizza Sauce (16 oz.) 2 Tablespoons Pesto Sauce 1 Medium Size Tomato – Sliced 1 Medium Onion 1 Can Large Olives 1/2 Cup Sliced Mushrooms (The taste better if you cut them yourself instead of buying them already sliced) 1 Cup Spinach (Rinsed & Dried) …
Transform Discipline with Debriefing
I sighed and prayed as I walked to her bedroom. She wailed, fearful of her punishment. Earlier she spoke out of anger and frustration. Her disrespectful words hit their mark. Anger flashed in my eyes, my tone betrayed my wrath, but by God’s grace I did not yell – a sign of His fruit in my life. I opened the door and encouraged her to calm down. She took heaving breaths as tears soaked her bed. When she quieted we talked. It was a humbling time for both of us. We admitted our faults and failures. Then talked about how …
Mount WashMore
The day is going about as usual. One child is on the floor doing the famous “drop and flop” after not getting her way. The laundry pile, “Mount WashMore”, is glaring at me from the other room screaming how behind I am. The older two should be doing schoolwork, but the phone rang so they are off and running. A million other things are buzzing in my brain needing my attention at the same time. Overwhelmed does not come close to describing how I am feeling. As a mom who loves the Lord and wants to leave a Godly …
Practical Mom Tips for the Evening Hours
I’ve been hearing great feedback over my posts. Moms love the encouragement, wisdom, and devotions But some of you have caught my eye. Yes, I’m talking to you, the stressed out, frazzled, sleep deprived, slightly crabby mom. Trust me, I’ve been there and here’s a hug and some practical supper time tips to help de-stress your life a little bit. Create a Menu. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Mine goes Sunday through Saturday: Chicken bake, Spaghetti, Tatortot casserole. Creating a menu gives you more time to focus on your kids. Plus they can even help cook if needed. And it will …
Abide in Me
When I am asked, “How many children do you have?” I don’t know how to respond. “Three,” I answer, while I finish the sentence in my head, “…here with me and one in Heaven.” I will never forget my daughter, Rachel Faith, even if the only life she experienced was in the womb. She is always with me. As beautiful as she was at birth and at death, those images are not what flutter through my mind. I imagine her dancing with her sister. I twirl her dark curls. I embrace her, though she’s not physically here. Rachel died at …
I’m Pregnant – Now What?
Whether pink lines, a plus sign or a doctor’s diagnosis is the way you discover you are pregnant, a multitude of thoughts and emotions are sure to follow. Some women are excited and receive the news with great anticipation. Others are afraid of what their future might hold and aren’t sure how they are going to deal with the days ahead. Pregnancy is different for everyone and so are the circumstances associated with it. A thousand questions run through every expectant mom’s mind as she begins her journey down an unfamiliar road. Even if she’s had a baby before, each …