Heavenly Apple Butter

      Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ.  He loved us and offered Himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. -Ephesians 5:2 NLT   Stress is stacked higher than pancakes around our kitchen table.  Algebra, latin, world history books, blended alongside crayons and nursery rhymes, all hovered by anxious faces.   The first few weeks of school are oftentimes the most daunting for the entire family. We hope this recipe will overflow your home with the delightful aroma of fall, comfort all the anxious school tummies, and help mom…relax!   How …

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On becoming a mentor…

Sometimes, the thought of becoming a mentor can be scary (believe me, I know). But it doesn’t have to be. Take a minute and listen to my story, and hopefully be encouraged…     If you can’t see the video in your reader, please click… Genny Heikka – On Becoming a Mentor from Genny Heikka on Vimeo. IF YOU’D LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN BEGIN A M.O.M. MENTOR GROUP IN YOUR AREA, PLEASE CLICK THIS LINK. You never know the impact you can make, just by saying yes… QUESTION: WHO IS MENTORING YOU? WHO ARE YOU MENTORING? WHAT …

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Motherhood: A Small Thing?

We all want our lives to matter, to believe that we are a part of God’s plan to change the world for His glory. How often has the prayer, “What do you want me to do for you God?” sprinkled through our thoughts and lofted over our lips as we seek Him. Yes, we all have the right heart to seek His will when we utter that simple query, but do we have the right mindset in what He may already be asking of us. Are we missing the obvious by seeking the spectacular? The volunteer position at church, the …

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Are You an Encourager?

And a voice from Heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love, with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:17             My husband is an attorney. From time to time, I tag along with him when he has to be in court. This week he was appointed to represent a mother who was trying to regain custody of her teenage son. After some poor parenting decisions by his mother, this child was now in the care of foster parents. His name was Maverick. Maverick sat down outside of the court room, dressed all in black. His body language screamed, “Leave …

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The Danger of Not Seeing the Cucumber for the Leaves

  Gently lifting the green leaves, I searched among the vines for a cucumber. Again I was disappointed. My gardening attempts had begun in the spring after enjoying a salad from my sister-in-law’s garden. I had known Loes gardened, but the idea of weeding and watering weren’t my thing. That is, until I ate from her garden and my attitude changed. The Secret Gardener The following day, I decided to try gardening. I didn’t tell Keith. I didn’t tell Loes. I quietly went to the nursery and checked out the plants. Who knew there were so many varieties of tomatoes …

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Every Christian Family is a Miracle

God has been opening my eyes and giving me a greater understanding of what it means to bring Him glory. I have been struck over and over by this one theme and how it should dominate every area of life: My first priority and highest calling is to bring glory to God. I should be pointing others to God and the gospel in all that I do. That is what I am here for! How is that done? I am continuing to learn what that means, but God enlightened me a little more as I was reading through a book …

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Finding My Voice

I shook as I stared into her big round eyes. Anger flashed red and I yelled loud. As I looked into her startled angry eyes my anger fled. “Go to your room,” I said, my tone razor sharp. And I knew I blew it. I messed up. How do I correct my children when I cannot keep myself under control? How do I expect my children to develop control and kindness when my words spew acid? I slowly walked to her room because the hard work of a mom doesn’t end with sending children to their rooms. That is where …

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Having a Mommy Meltdown

My friend, Poppy Smith recently wrote a book that is definitely a MUST READ for mommas…really for all women. Her book, I’m Too Human to be Like Jesus is a breath of fresh air for every follower of Christ who isn’t perfect ~ especially the ones who feel like they have to be. I asked Poppy to be our guest today on The M.O.M. Initiative and I know you’ll be blessed as you read her transparent account of her own mommy meltdowns. So, sweet moms, grab a cup of coffee and be encouraged to know that although you may not …

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How to Guarantee You Won’t Enjoy Motherhood

By Guest: Lindsey Bell Some days, I don’t enjoy motherhood. There. I said it. As terrible as it makes me feel to admit this, I think a lot of mothers feel the same way. Motherhood is a beautiful thing, and we adore our children. But there are some days when it just isn’t all that much fun. When my children are whiny, my patience is short, and it’s just plain…hard. Please tell me I’m not the only one who ever feels this way. Last November, after my husband and I experienced our fourth miscarriage, I realized I wasn’t enjoying motherhood …

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When You Want What They Have

“Mom, I wish we lived in that house.” Perched inside her playset lookout tower, my daughter cast wistful glances toward the neighbor’s yard a few houses north. “Why? I thought you liked our house.” “Well, they have a pool and a picnic table.” Ah. I see. “But they don’t have a sandbox. Or swings. Or all of your favorite toys inside,” I reasoned. “Just because they have a pool doesn’t mean that house is better. We belong here, in our house.” Wise counsel, O Super Mom. Maybe you should take it yourself. How many times have I wished for someone …

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