Remember That Time… An Influence Link Up

2013-03-04 10.21.03

Remember that time I went to The Influence Conference and I was all insecure and awkward and God had to sit me down and talk some sense into my very pathetic attitude? You don't? Oh well then, never mind. Ahem. I am part of a wonderful community of women on the Influence Network and I'm joining in a little link up today with members of said network. Here are a few things of the get to know you … [Read more...]

Five Minute Friday: Story

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It's Friday, the time of the week when I just write whatever comes to mind over at the Gypsy Mama. Won't you join me. 5 minutes, no editing, no backtracking, no over thinking, just let those fingers fly and type out your heart. This weeks prompt: Story When we tell our stories, do we want a reaction or a connection? Connection is different from a reaction and it's so easy  to confuse … [Read more...]

Healing Barbie’s Daughter: part one

http://www.flickr.com/photos/53199633@N02/

They are coltish, wobbling on strappy sandals, their wedges creating even longer legs, jutting from their teeny tiny shorts. They hobble along in  clusters of three or four, their long hair cascading down their backs and brushing over bare shoulders. Their shiny lip-gloss sending off tiny glinting sparkles like confetti thrown at a party. They swing their pink striped bags jauntily. Victoria's … [Read more...]

Jesus is not a Republican and Other Stuff I Believe

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We are the world changers. The visionaries. We are the strongest political movement ever known. We have no borders or bounds. We seek to establish justice and ensure domestic tranquility through  grace filled lives, serving hands, and faithful hearts. We are the diplomats of grace.  The people with hands made to serve and hearts made to heal and branch out. We are the vine gatherers, … [Read more...]

Why I’m Called to Community and You Are Too

Too busy with work

There are so many things standing in the way of developing a community. Here are some excuses  in no particular order. 1.   I am an introvert, people are draining to me after long periods.  2.  I homeschool so my days are filled with lesson plans, constant questions,  diaper changes,  snack times, and exhaustion. Basically the definition of long periods.  3.  My house is messy … [Read more...]

80 Candles: A Lesson in Living as Light

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I can only imagine what they thought of me. A sixteen year old girl, just recently surrendered to the cross even though there had been many years of truth, rebellion had prevailed. And on the journey back to God and his redeeming grace, there was always the refining. So much to refine. The hot fire burning away the sins that had entangled during those years of mutiny, raging against God, the … [Read more...]

What Not to do When Parenting an Easily Distracted Boy.

Judah at Crystal Peaks

There is a lot to be learned from patience, a quality I often lack when mothering. And mentoring. Which is easier said than done. What are we producing in our boys when we are rushed, impatient, and frustrated? I'll give you a hint, it's not strong character, responsibility, and integrity. How do we speak grace and encouragement into our young men? Today you can find me guest posting on MOB … [Read more...]

Who will cast the deciding vote? How to focus your priorities.

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I have tried in vain for years to prioritize my life. I pursue interests and ideals with an almost manic passion. But like any mania, the fall from the mounting anticipation and excitement is almost always depression, exhaustion, and the cry of the perpetually overwhelmed. It all seems worthy of my attention and energy. I am an eager volunteer joining ranks with all the other overcommitted moms … [Read more...]

The High Calling of Motherhood is Going to Voicemail: How to do less and accomplish more

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I'm idealistic. I am inspired. Unfortunately, I am NOT a good multi-tasker. I can do one thing well. What thing is that, you might ask? It's whatever I am most focused on at the time.  I can home school my children and teach them in ways that make their little minds open and swell and burst with information and excitement over things learnt and tried. I can disciple them and bury God's … [Read more...]

Happy Anniversary, mom

Parents Wedding Hawaii

Her ring has worn a groove onto her finger. Years of wear have  etched themselves  into that hand. The same hand that carried me as a baby, put band-aids on my ouchies, cooked and fed me, turned the pages on the books that would birth a lover of the written word, and consistently pointed to God through her faithfulness. The same hand that filled syringes, cleaned up vomit, produced warm … [Read more...]

Laying a Foundation

Nehemiah and Josh

"My kids would never listen to me like they do their teacher." This is a sentiment I have often heard from other mothers when explaining why they choose not to home school. Often this comment is heard after someone has asked where my children go to school and I mention we home school. Guilt should never be a motivator to home school. I felt a pretty strong conviction when we started to home … [Read more...]