What's Your Story?

I have been sharing lots of stuff God is doing in my life. Just skim through November’s blogs to get a glimpse of some recent ah-ha moments! But before we say goodbye to November (How is this possible already?), I want to throw one more thought in the mix.

God has done amazing things in my life. And not just this month - all almost-forty years! His love for me is radical. He has met me in so many low places and has still loved me back to life. He is intense in his pursuit for me. Me! He never let’s go of me. He has used every moment. Every tear. Every disappointment. Every choice. Every smile. Every hope. Every dream. Every pain. Every thought. Every fear. Every beat of my heart. Every word. Every desire. Every thing…

Everything.

And when I think about that, I am

Overwhelmed...

Overcome. 

I am reminded that not one detail of my life is wasted with God. Every experience is part of the special story he is carefully writing for me. Everything is important to him. Nothing is wasted. Nothing is edited out. Nothing is forged. And suspense is built into every turn of the page.

Did you know that the same is true for you? Every situation. Every experience. Every encounter. Every relationship. It's all important to God. Let that soak into every pore in your body. He loves you too much to waste a thing.

Today I am thankful for a God who loves me with such an intense love. For a God who has never given up on me. For the author of my story. It’s not a perfect story. In fact, it’s sort of a comedy, tragedy, action/adventure, thriller, love story. But it’s mine. Unfolding in the grace of God.

What’s your story?

Keepin’ it Real…D

Recipe Week

So this week was opening week of shotgun season. I’m not particularly thrilled about it, but my hubby sure is. Every year he saves a week of vacation specifically to hunt. And once it is over, he begins the countdown to the next year! I don’t like being a hunter’s wife widow for a week, but I suppose there are worse things. And, on the bright side, it provides our family food and saves us lots of money at the meat market.

Anyway – it’s been cold and rainy this week so I wanted to make sure I had some yummy comfort food ready when Mike got home. The bad thing is that this is also a super busy week for me at church so it was a challenge to come up with a week’s worth of yumminess that was also quick and easy for me to prepare before heading out the door.

We started the week with soup, salad, and homemade bread. Seriously delicious stuff right there!

The soup was so easy I could do it in my sleep. When people eat this soup, they will think you slaved all day in the kitchen. In reality, you will spend about 30-45 minutes total. I put five small chicken breasts in a slow cooker with a diced onion and cover them with chicken broth. Let it simmer all day and shred the chicken right before you are ready to add the noodles (about 30 minutes before you want to eat).

You will want to make your noodles and then let them sit out to dry the rest of the day. They need to sit a minimum of 3 hours, but I have found that the longer they sit, the better they taste. Simply break 2 egg whites into a bowl and whisk with 2, ½ egg shells of water. Weird, I know. But that is the recipe so go with it. Then you simply start adding flour and stirring until the dough gets stiff. I usually add somewhere around 4 cups of flour. You’ll need to use your hands at some point. Put some flour on a surface and roll out your dough. Once it is thin, simply roll it up in sections and cut it into strips. Unroll to dry. Add the noodles to the soup about 30-45 minutes before you want to eat. Season to taste (we usually just use salt and pepper).

Serve this up with a nice garden salad and some homemade bread, and oh my goodness!

Here is the recipe for the bread (which is made in a bread machine). I made a Zesty Italian bread to tantalize the taste buds. Simply toss in 1 1/3 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of butter, 1 ¾ teaspoons of salt, ¼ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of dry milk, 1 packet of dry Italian dressing mix, 4 cups of flour, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of yeast and let the machine do the rest!

Monday, we stuck with the pasta staple. My sauce is “famous.” Well…not really. It’s just a can of Hunts Four Cheese pasta sauce with some browned sausage added to it, but it is quite delightful! And please notice that we had the leftover bread from soup and salad night. I’m not usually good at using leftovers so I was pretty proud of myself for remembering that!

Tuesday I prepared this open-faced chicken stuff. It didn’t look very pleasing to the eyes, but it was very good! Easy is the name of the game. Throw 4-5 small chicken breasts in the crockpot with 3 jars of chicken gravy and let it cook. Shred the chicken before serving. Make some mashed taters and plop them on top of a couple slices of bread. Spoon the chicken goo on top and you have supper!

The rest of the week brings meatloaf, taco chowder, deep dish pizza, and quesadillas. Stay tuned for the recipes.

Cookin’ up a Storm (not really)….D

Ruffle Your Feathers

I have been reading like crazy lately. Because there are so many good books out there, I tend to pick up a bunch at the same time. But then I have a problem. Which do I read first? I will usually try to exert some self control and make the choice to start with one. But then, I get antsy. I start to flip through the others and pretty soon it all spirals out of control as I am reading several books at one time.

One book that I have concentrated on reading was Erasing Hell by Francis Chan. I have been reading this book for a while because it is sort of a deep book...and I'm sort of not a deep person. I have to read and re-read things several times to understand them. Francis did a bang-up job at taking the time to explain the theology of hell. 

And it’s more complicated than you might think!

While this book was about hell, it was also about “embracing a God who isn’t always easy to understand, and whose ways are far beyond us; a God whose thoughts are much higher than our thoughts; a God who, as the sovereign Creator and Sustainer of all things, has every right to do, as the psalmist says, “whatever He pleases” (Ps. 115:3 NASB).”

About halfway through the book, he starts talking about the implications. You know, the good stuff of why you are reading the book in the first place! Here are some things that resonated with me:

• “Jesus threatens hell to those who curse their brother (Matt. 5:22).” Yep. You did read that correctly. Why don’t we understand that Jesus doesn’t like it when we are mean to others? I’m guilty too.

• “Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’” (Matt. 7:22 NASB). Francis points out the key word, many. When we stand before God, we sure can give him a list of all the things we did. But will we be able to say, “I knew you…” I was convicted here. Do I know God the way I know my best friend? Do I spend more time with him or catching up on my favorite television show? Do I quote His words the way I quote lines from movies or books? “What evidence do you have that you know Jesus?”

• And what about the necessity of helping the poor? Have I made myself uncomfortable for the sake of someone else? Francis frames it this way, “While Jesus is ambiguous at times about the nature and duration of hell, He’s crystal clear about the necessity of reaching the poor. Yet many hellfire preachers are overfed and overpaid, living in luxury while doing nothing for the majority of Christians who live on less than two dollars a day. Contrast that with Jesus, who in His longest sermon about judgment made helping the poor a vital criterion of who goes where.” Yea…chew on that a while.

This book shook me up enough to make me think about some of my behaviors. Things that don’t necessarily seem to make a difference in the day-to-day realities really do in the grand scheme of things. God has set a high standard for us and while we are imperfect, we must strive to reach that place he so desires for us. To get there, we simply can’t fake it. We have to be all in at all times. That’s easy to do when you know and trust God in an intimate way.

God has an incredible love for you. A love that is deep and wide. A love that is unending. A love that is steadfast. A love that is real…as real as hell. “God extends mercy to all now, He wants us to know Him now, He urges all of us now to be reconciled to Him through His Son Jesus Christ. The door is open now – but it won’t stay open forever.”

Yes, I will admit that I wrestled with this book. And as a result, the prayer at the end of chapter five has become my own.

“God, help me overcome my selfishness. I want to love the way You asked me to. I don’t want to say another insulting word to or about another person, not even jokingly. I want to shock my enemies with Christian love. I want to joyfully sacrifice for the poor, and to see You when I see them. I don’t want to fit in anymore. Holy Spirit, save me. Set me apart. Make me worthy.”

I urge you to think about studying this topic...this book is a great resource. You will wrestle with things that impact you and those whom you love…and you won’t regret ruffling your own feathers. We are not here to be comfortable.

Keepin’ it Real…D

Flour Angels

I have mentioned before that Gavin loves to cook. He must have gotten than trait from his Grandma Karen. She seemed to pass that love on to the boys in the family! I can cook…I just don’t love it – not like she did! When I get ready to cook anything at all, Gavin’s face lights up and he’s in the kitchen asking what ingredients we need before I muster up the energy to enter into the world of cooking.

The other morning we were making our staple Chocolate Chip Muffins. We make these so often that it is pretty routine. He knows exactly what to get and in what order the ingredients go into the bowl. He loves to do the flour, which is last, and he waits in anticipation until the very moment comes where he can scoop and dump the white stuff into the bowl.

I wait in anticipation as well…for the messiness. Flour is typically all over the counter and all over Gavin. He loves to play in it and, quite honestly, I think his goal is to spill on purpose accident. Oh well - cooking is supposed to be messy, right?

Heck, parenting is messy…I can handle a little flour!

As usual, the flour went everywhere (yes, I am a bit over dramatic). And as usual, I let Gavin play in it while I fill the muffin tins. It is strategic on both our parts! Once the tins are filled and the muffins are in the oven, he sets the timer and we begin the clean up process.

Trust me, it is a process!

This particular morning I took notice of him.

I have watched him do it a hundred times before, but I never noticed. I never asked the question, “What are you doing?”

He was focused – which doesn’t happen often. He was involved in the moment. He was proudly making “flour angels.” He showed me how to dot my fingers in flour and then find a clean spot on the counter. Then, with grace and ease, he spread his fingers and made his precious flour angels and encouraged me to do the same. How could I not?

How could I not enter that moment with him?

Today I am thankful for these moments. The ones that don’t pass by quickly. The ones that I take time to savor. I am thankful for my little man’s mind. His creativity. And the joy he found in flour. So simple and such a powerful lesson to me. It was a divine reminder not to rush. Not to worry about a white mess on my counter…and floor…and child. It was a precious moment etched forever on my heart.

What blessings did you unwrap today?

Keepin' it Real...D

Different is Good

I’m all about different, especially during the holidays. Now before you write me any hate mail, you should know that it’s not that I don’t like the holidays. I do. In fact, Christmas is one of my favorite holidays. However, I don’t like all the hoopla that comes with these holidays. If I want a turkey, I will make it whether it is November 24 or March 3. And who says I have to put up tree or plaster lights all over my house? I did these things once upon a time, but I have grown to hate all the fuss. I can’t tell you the last time I actually put up a tree.

This year, Thanksgiving was going to be different. Instead of fussing with an ultra clean house filled with guests, a turkey with all the fixings, and drawstring pants, we kept it simple and focused on the things that mean the most to us. We spent time with each other and it was a treasured day.

Mike got up early and went hunting so Gavin and I got up (not so early) and made pumpkin bread and chocolate chip muffins for his return.

Then we chilled. We didn’t do anything. My friend Mary and her boyfriend, Kyle, came over for a bit and enjoyed a muffin and entertainment from Gavin. We played Go Fish…sort of. We watched parts of the Macy’s Parade. And we giggled with Gavin and all his quirks. I prepared some blog posts and did some church dreaming planning. Gavin and I read books and played puzzles and even did some school. Ryan took a nap and prepared to go out for some stupid crazy Black Friday shopping with friends. Mike worked out. It was a relaxed day. There were no agendas or places to be. We didn’t have to dress up. We didn’t have to try to impress anyone. We just were…ourselves. The Kohlhofer’s. You get what you see. Sometimes it’s not pretty…but we love each other just the same.

Now don’t worry. We did have a yummy dinner, compliments of the Cracker Barrel. It was not traditional though. I did have their Thanksgiving special simply because it sounded yummy, but Gavin had pancakes, Ryan had steak, and Mike had country fried steak (only because they ran out of meatloaf). And if you think it is weird that we went out to eat, let me tell you – that place was packed! We were not the only ones with the idea of ditching the turkey!

After our meal we headed to the Muppet Movie, which was super cute. I think I enjoyed it the most. I found myself giggling, singling along with the familiar songs, and reminiscing on fond memories of childhood. I could picture myself sitting on the floor watching the Muppets with mom and dad. It was sort of strange because I could see our old basement on W 9th Street. I could visualize the staging of the furniture and mom rocking in the chair behind me. In the reflection from the television, I could see the sliding glass doors leading to the big backyard. It was a sweet moment in my brain that I was thankful for, especially since I rarely remember things from my past.

When we returned home from dinner and a movie, Mike and Gavin made cookies. Don’t get too impressed…it was their famous break and bake bonding time!

Gavin couldn’t wait to dig into the smorgasbord of goodies…and settled on the peanut butter cake we made last night. Good choice!

Mike cut himself a piece of pumpkin pie. It was the very first pie I had ever made! I was really nervous for him to eat it, but he said it was good. Of course, more than 20 years ago, he also said that the first hamburger I ever made him was good…it was burned on the outside and not cooked on the inside.

All in all, Thanksgiving 2011 was simple and yet so much fun. Days like this with my family are the days I cherish most in my heart.

How did you celebrate Thanksgiving this year? What traditions do you have...and which ones would you like to break?

Thanking God for family…D

Joy and Pain

“One act of thanksgiving, when things go wrong with us, is worth a thousand thanks when things are agreeable to our inclinations.”

~ Saint John of Avila

Chapter five of the book, One Thousand Gifts, is a great chapter to settle on this Thanksgiving. It is full of incredible quotes, Scripture, and things to ponder.

I am on the journey that Ann Voskamp was on. The quest to truly live a full life, giving thanks in all things.

All being the key word.

So far, my thanks journal has been mostly full and focused on the “good” things. Those are the things that are easy to give thanks for. It is easy to stand in awe at the goodness of God. Easy because there are no questions. Things are good. I am happy...

Chapter five puts a spin on thankfulness that is almost predictable. It is a challenge to record thanks even in the troubles and trials of life. I’ve had my share. In the end, I have thanked God for these times, because in the end I have seen him move. But in the midst? Well, that is a different story.

I’m an amateur, remember?

Chapter five had my mind racing and giving myself the V8 slap on the forehead. I should have given thanks in the midst of trials and difficulties. I should give thanks for those things I am struggling with right now.

“And I can hear Him soothe soft, ‘Are your ways My ways, child? Can you eat My manna, sustain on My mystery? Can you believe that I tenderly, tirelessly work all for the best good of the whole world – because My flame of love for you can never, ever be quenched?’”

There are times we need to face difficult situations and circumstances. We need to look at them, not only as opportunities, but as gifts from God. We need to empty ourselves into his fullness…his grace. Because “it is suffering that has the realest possibility to bear down and deliver grace. And grace that chooses to bear the cross of suffering overcomes that suffering.”

“Darkness transfigures into light, bad transfigures into good, grief transfigures into grace, empty transfigures into full. God wastes nothing – ‘Makes everything work out according to his plan’ (Ephesians 1:11).”

So today, I am giving thanks for the ugly. For the difficult. For the trials. I have them…life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. I won’t run. I won’t ask “why?” I won’t try to change things. I will simply give thanks. I will step into the moment, the uncertainty, and I will receive God’s grace...and unwrap joy in the midst of pain.

"God is always good and I am always loved."

Are you giving thanks for everything today?

Happy Thanksgiving…D



Lessons on Sunday

Sunday was one of those days where I got the pleasure of serving in both Sparks (preschool) and Xccelerate (elementary)…and it wasn’t crazy.

Really.

I wondered what the difference was from months past when this happened and I went home and took a three hour nap. Part of it I am attributing to the fact that some of my responsibilities were taken away and lovingly handed over to another person. (Yay Karis! I will forever be indebted to you.) The other part, I believe, is simply because I prepared adequately with prayer and I was ready. I keep telling myself over and over, “When I do my part, God will do his part.”

And he always does.

In Sparks, we talked about David and Jonathan. We even had fun with a nerf bow and arrow because we are cool like that in the preschool wing. I love the story of David and Jonathan. Their friendship is inspiring and their story is one worth sharing even with the young minds.

“And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.” ~ 1 Samuel 18:3

In Xccelerate, we had our Family Fusion production where the parents come worship with the kids and hear the Bible truths we have been focusing on all month. I love Family Fusion Sunday more than you know. Not only do a bunch of people work really hard to present during this production, but more importantly, because it gives parents an incredible opportunity to invest in their child’s life.

That’s powerful.

We talked about gratitude…appropriate with the Thanksgiving holiday right around the corner. It was a lesson that spoke to my heart as well since I have been reading through One Thousand Gifts. I wanted to jump up and down and tell everyone in the room how important – and life changing – it is when we really take the time to be thankful; when we unwrap the gift of joy…but I contained myself.

I was able to join the “big people” in “big church” on Sunday too…and the lessons kept coming my way in true God fashion. Pastor Marty spoke about worship. When you hear the word “worship,” many people think about music. But really, worship is so much more. In fact, "the number one priority of the corporate body is to worship God!" Worship connects us with God. It is our fuel to get out of the pew and serve others. It lifts us up, gives us direction, and motivates us to move.

Once in a while, things happen and it is deemed necessary to serve others and miss out on corporate worship. If this happens routinely, week after week, it will surely have a negative impact on ministry. I've seen this happen - to me! The flashing light blinks, “DUH” once again. We go to church to get filled so that we can pour it out. I can’t invest in the lives of others if I haven’t invested in my own. Sunday wasn't "crazy" because I had been previously filled and ready to pour.

I love Sunday’s that go well. But mostly, I love Sunday’s where I learn and grow…and get the needed preparation to invest in the lives of others. It’s about God and growing his kingdom. He is good. He is loving. He is faithful. He is forgiving and full of grace. People all around us - people we serve - need to hear this message.

“He is good; his love endures forever.” ~ 2 Chronicles 7:3

When we worship, we get to come one step closer to a God who loves us with immeasurable love. And then we “continue wholeheartedly” in his way…(2 Chronicles 6:14) as we help others experience God's goodness.

Serving with you…D



Give Thanks - Get Time

I am busy.

I have a family to care for, laundry to wash, meals to make, and a home to clean. I have boo-boo’s to kiss, tears to dry, and hearts to mend. I have stories to listen to and stories to share. There are decisions to process…endless decisions. I work two jobs. I write. I dream. Yes, I am busy. I go to bed exhausted from the day and I long to check more off of my to-do list…until I read chapter four of Ann Voskamp’s book, One Thousand Gifts.

“On every level of life, from housework to heights of prayer, in all judgement and efforts to get things done, hurry and impatience are sure marks of the amateur.”

Ouch. I am an amateur. I have lived my whole life as an amateur, busily do this, that, and the other thing, never fully enjoying any of it. So I made a choice to live fully in each moment as I put down the book and entered into my day.

Is it possible?

Yes! Slow down. Meet the moment and soak everything in. Use the moment to create a memory or teach a lesson. Use the moment to thank God for something simple...or something complex. Use the moment to love. Use the moment to stand in awe at the creator of all. Let the moment consume you as if it is your last moment.

“Calm. Haste makes waste. Life is not an emergency. Life is brief and it is fleeting but it is not an emergency.”

It is possible to slow down. It is possible to enjoy the moments of life. And as you do, you are savoring the best of life and unwrapping more of what God intended for life. Your life. How can you not give thanks for that?

“…life is so urgent it necessitates living slow….Life at its fullest is the sensitive, detonating sphere, and it can be carried only in the hands of the unhurried and reverential – a bubble held in awe.”

I want to live a full life…fully! I am making the choice to slow down and see God in every moment. To “savor long whatever time holds.” And to thank him for each and every precious gift. As the clock ticks and the hours fade, I will enjoy the moments rather than rush through them.

Life is not an emergency.

Giving thanks for each moment…D



Preschool Science

Have I mentioned before how much I love to homeschool Gavin? I know, I know...he is only three, but we are having a blast together! I am tickled pink when he says those glorious words, "Mommy, can we do school?" I am giddy with excitement when he demonstrates something he "gets" - something I taught him.

Now don't read into any of that. I am not doing anything amazing and cool. It's all ordinary stuff if you ask me...but I am the teacher. I am pouring into my son in a way that a "real" teacher could never do.

Today, I am thankful that I have the flexibility with my jobs to invest wholly into the life of my son. I am thankful that he is soaking everything in. And I am thankful that God is at the helm of his life, molding and shaping him exactly as he planned.

Take a look at a couple of things we have enjoyed doing this week.

I love the simple meals I can cook with Gavin. He loves to be in the kitchen and I love the time we get to spend together serving up a meal for our family. Turkey Goulash is super simple...brown up some ground turkey. Boil some pasta. Mix it all together with a can of tomato soup, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Add some cheese and season however you like. Ta-Da! 

We did a simple science experiment this week. We felt oil and water and talked about the differences. Then we soaked a cotton ball in the oil and talked about what we thought might happen if we dropped an oil saturated cotton ball and a plain cotton ball in water...and then watched!



Of course, more cooking...Gavin loves breakfast more than any other meal! He is in charge of making the cinnamon rolls. He's pretty serious about this responsibility too...



How have you invested in the life of your child this week?

Keepin' it Real...D

Unwrap the Gift

1. Sleeping in

2. Praying over Gavin as he sleeps

3. Fresh from the oven muffins

4. Warm showers


As I read chapter three of One Thousand Gifts, I found myself wanting what Ann Voskamp found.

Joy

So I grabbed an empty notebook and began recording the very moments which made me realize I was unwrapping a special gift.

“…they are just the common things and maybe I don’t even know they are gifts until I write them down and that is really what they look like. Gifts He bestows. This writing it down – it is sort of like…unwrapping love.”

Not that I don’t have joy in my life. I do. But I don’t always realize it…hence the reason for giving thanks for everything that warms my heart and brings a smile to my face. “Thanks is what multiples the joy and makes any life large.”

That flashing sign blinked in the distance, large enough and bright enough for me to see. God blesses me daily with gifts. Even when I am busily working to meet a deadline, unloading and loading the dishwasher for the zillionth time, and washing more laundry…even when I am saddened by news of loved ones being inflicted with pain and sickness…there are blessings to be had. 

In quiet time.

In the warmth of the sun on a cold day.

In the smile from a friend.

In the thoughtful note received in the mail with just the right words at just the right time.

I am oh so thankful today. More thankful because I took the time to write down those thoughts and words and actions that I appreciated and recognized as a gift from God.

“The brave who focus on all things good and all things beautiful and all things true, even in the small, who give thanks for it and discover joy even in the here and now, they are the change agents who bring fullest Light to all the world. When we lay the soil of our hard lives open to the rain of grace and let joy penetrate our cracked and dry places, let joy soak into our broken skin and deep crevices, life grows.”

I grew today in an amazingly simple way. And I look forward to the miracles of the ordinary to grow me tomorrow. And with each new day, I get closer to him.

Look around you. Unwrap a gift. Receive the joy.

Keepin’ it Real…D



Life and Death: It's Simple

For whatever reason, death is a hard thing for me to swallow. It’s uncomfortable. I am not afraid to die – I know where I am going. But I am afraid of the process of dying. My mind is racing about death once again.

I have a love-hate relationship with this thought.

“How do we live fully so we are fully ready to die?” Are we ever ready to die? Ann attempts to answer the questions about life and death in chapter two of her book, One Thousand Gifts. Take a deep breath and walk with me for a moment.

What do you do in the course of a day? I make endless phone calls with the same speech, pick up the same toys countless times, cook, clean, do laundry…all sorts of mundane tasks. No awards will be won (trust me on that one). No records will be set. Just the same routines to follow. Day in and day out. Dreams have long since faded and new ones are silenced. Ann challenged me to rethink. Could there be more than the disappointment I sometimes feel?

Hmmm….Do you think Jesus was disappointed that he came to earth to die? His purpose was to save me – and you – from the afflictions of our sin. Do you think he lived his life fixated on the fact that his demise was to be a brutal fate of torture? On the contrary, as you know.

“With an expiration of less than twelve hours, what does Jesus count as all most important? ‘And then he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them…(Luke 22:19).’”

Is it too simplified to think that the way to live a fuller life, and be prepared for death, is to give thanks?

“The greatest thing is to give thanks for everything. He who has learned this knows what it means to live…He has penetrated the whole mystery of life: giving thanks for everything…First Corinthians 11:26 reads, ‘whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup’ (NIV) – whenever. Like every day....  Doesn’t Christ, at His death meal, set the entirety of our everyday bread and drink lives into the framework of eucharisteo?”

Oh my! It is simple. How did I miss it? In the midst of my whining, I missed it. Complaints seemed easier. Ordinary tasks seemed inevitable. Just getting by seemed necessary. Is there more? Thankfully, God sent that blinking “DUH” sign! Yes, there is more…so much more. He gave me everything – my home, my car, my family, my job, my life and all the ordinary, run-of-the-mill events that comprise my days. He wants me to give it back to him with thanks. Why don’t I fall at his feet with gratitude? “Jesus counts thanksgiving as integral in a faith that saves…Thanksgiving – giving thanks in everything – prepares the way that God might show us His fullest salvation in Christ.”

I’m not an expert on being thankful. In fact, I fail miserably. It’s hard to be thankful when you have washed six loads of laundry. It’s hard to be thankful when no one likes the dinner you took time to make. It’s hard to be thankful when you are not working in the capacity you dreamed of. It’s hard to give thanks when…well, it’s just hard. But it’s necessary.

I am thankful as I type this post with tears in my eyes – for the message of hope I experienced in the pages of this chapter. I am thankful for the example of Jesus. And I am thankful for those flashy, blinking “DUH” signs just when I need them!

For what things can you give thanks? The answer is simple…it’s in your very being.

Thankful Today…D

“He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me, and he prepares the way so that I may show him the salvation of God.”

~ (Psalm 50:23)



Choose Joy

Do you know how incredible God is? I mean, do you really know? At all times? In all things? Is God always an incredible, amazing, awe-inspiring God to you?

I have to admit that I know this to be true. But sometimes, I forget. I don’t realize his greatness…especially when things are not going so well. Not going my way. There are times I need a gentle reminder that God is always God and always good. I hate that I need that reminder. But it’s the truth. Since God made me, wired me, and knows every intricate detail about me, I am pretty sure that he knows I am a flawed human!

Whew!

I have started reading the book One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. I have only read the first two chapters, but it’s been amazing thus far. Ann (we’re on a first name basis, she and I) writes in a way that tugs at my heart. She relates life, real life, to faith…real faith. Let me tell you about chapter one…and stay tuned for the rest.

The first chapter tells of some losses she experienced and the immense pain that accompanies tragedy. I can relate. She paints a vivid picture of the details, right down to her questioning God in it all. Don't judge...we’ve all done it. Wondered - where is God in the bad? We’ve said the words, those "if only" statements. And we’ve felt the pain; the empty feelings and an unending void aching in our heart.

“When we find ourselves groping along, famished for more, we can choose. When we are despairing, we can choose to live as the Israelites gathering manna. For forty long years, God’s people daily eat manna – a substance whose name literally means “What is it?" Hungry, they choose to gather up that which is baffling. They fill on that which has no meaning. More than 14,600 days they take their daily nourishment from that which they don’t comprehend. They find soul-filling in the inexplicable. They eat the mystery. They eat the mystery. And the mystery, that which made no sense, is “like wafers of honey” on the lips.”

*Sigh*

I was forced to answer the question, “When I am broken, hurting, or desperate for answers to the “mystery,” do I choose the "manna?” Do I choose to allow that which I don't understand to nourish me? To fill me? My answer disappoints. She goes on to say,

“That which tears open our souls, those holes that splatter our sight, may actually become the thin, open places to see through the mess of this place to the heart-aching beauty beyond. To Him. To the God whom we endlessly crave.”

Do you dare to empty yourself of the resentment, the doubt, the fear, the questions...so that you can live the life God desires for you? A full life of “grace and joy and all that is beauty eternal.” Yes, that is the life I want to live! Are you with me? Let's continue on this journey together and experience God's greatness.

I am thankful for Ann's raw words, her honesty, and her willingness to share and encourage. And I am thankful for a new friend to walk with on the journey of emptying my life in order to fully live.

Keepin’ it Real…D

The Call to Serve

Since I told you how excited I was on Saturday, I would be remiss if I failed to mention how equally awesome Sunday was. After my Connect experience on Saturday, I was refreshed and ready to go!

Other than worship one service, I didn’t have much to do with the big kids, which freed me up to hang with my preschool peeps. I have to brag and tell you that my volunteers were A.W.E.S.O.M.E! The PK team pulled out their creative side and totally value-added to the curriculum - simply brilliant stuff. In toddlers, we had two ladies who willingly helped the kiddos paint with a piece of wheat…yep, wheat. It was messy with beautiful end results, and the girls had as much fun as the kids (okay, maybe more). The infant team rocked the house playing with the babies on the floor, loving them with God’s love, and developing relationships with their parents. It was simply an amazing morning with tons of great things happening all around me. I love the energy that creativity, fun, patience, and flexibility brings.

These are the mornings that rejuvenate my soul! These are the mornings that I don’t fret over crayon marks on the tables (and sadly, the walls). These are the mornings that I am excited to watch what “different” looks like. There is no fuss…no stress…no worries…Just God doing his thing and me watching in wonder and amazement of it all. Not that I am surprised by him, but rather surprised by me. I’m learning…slowly, but surely, that God takes care of every detail.

Okay, fast forward a few hours to Sunday evening, and remember that phrase, "God takes care of every detail." My hubby and I decided to head down to the youth group Sunday night to check things out and see where we can help invest in the lives of the youth.

Crazy? Perhaps.

I have felt God asking me to be a part of this team for a while and I have reasoned my way out of it. You know, I am too busy…and I’m sort of old, maybe too old to be able to keep up with the young whipper-snappers of the world…and I already served in this capacity once (why would I go back, right?)…and there is already a great team in place…and, and, and he doesn’t care about my excuses – because they are just that – excuses! If the burden in my heart was not from God, it would not continue to burn. At what point do you stop saying “no” and start saying “yes?”

Hmmm???

I don’t have the answer. I think it’s different for everyone. But I do believe that God prepares each of us and nudges us at just the right time, knowing our initial response. I think he prepares for our disobedience and continues to gently guide us to the opposite response. Yes, he’s that good!

I was pretty excited at the end of the evening. It was crazy and unpredictable – just like I remembered youth ministry to be. But I felt free to be the person God made me to be, using the gifts and talents he has blessed me with to build up the next generation.

As I tried to sleep, I kept thanking God for the opportunities within my reach. My passion is to pour into the family. To speak truth into the lives of children and youth and come alongside their parents in order to raise a generation of active, devoted believers. I want to equip others and watch them "get it." I want to walk with others on a spiritual journey. I want to see kids with a passion for Jesus - not kids going through the motions.

As I was earning my Masters Degree several years ago, I always hoped that God would unleash my passion to pour into families as I served at a church. God's plan and my plan are sometimes different, but my eyes were opened to the fact that I have a wide sphere of influence. God has opened the doors of opportunity to do what I love, what he purposed me to do, every day in many different ways.

Today I am thankful for a God who has designed my life perfectly. I am thankful for the education I received and the practical ways I am able to use my knowledge on a daily basis. I am thankful for the tugs on my heart that stretch me and force me to move. And I am thankful for kids and youth who keep this gray-haired old lady feeling young and useful!

How do you answer when God’s calls?

Being used by God…D

Connect

I had the honor of leading a workshop at a local children’s ministry conference this weekend. My part was all about Pre-School. I was a little nervous going into it because, as per my usual style, I waited until the last minute to get my thoughts onto paper. I had a general idea in my head of what I wanted to cover, a working outline floating in the abyss of my brain – you know, somewhere smashed in-between menus, finances, and growing to-do lists. I was also apprehensive because it is totally not my style to sign up for something without knowing a single person.

When I walked in (the wrong door, by-the-way), I sought out the first friendly person to look me in the eye. A wonderful older gentleman who was helping to prepare lunch showed me the way and helped me to get settled. When I went to join the group of ladies who I would be connecting with, I saw a familiar face. Who knew?

Oh yea…God knew.

The opening session was inspiring. I wish I could recount it all for you, but I can’t, mostly because I have a bad memory. There are things about the morning that really resonated with me though. Things that I simply can’t forget.

As I serve, I am constantly telling myself, “D, this may seem stupid to you, but think about the impact it will have on the kids.” And yes, in case you were wondering, I do often talk to myself! On Saturday, this thought resurfaced. The wise leaders of this conference reminded us to serve faithfully, thinking about God’s plan for the next generation. They pointed out the fact that we were specifically created to be a part of the ministry God chose for us.

“He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join him in the work he does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing.”

~ Ephesians 2:10 (The Message)

Work we had better be doing. Those words echoed in my heart. Sometimes I don't want to do it.

Another thing we talked about was the need for prayer. We were challenged to have a “List of Ten.” I had heard of this before, but never really followed through. I really felt God tugging at my heart. As I listened to the presenters story, I knew where she was going. Immediately, I could think of five people without really “thinking.” I added five more by the end of the day Sunday and I won’t stop praying until these people come to know Jesus. How selfish of me not to have been doing so consistently all along?!?

After the opening session, came the first workshop. Mine ended up being a place where my current ideas blossomed. I have wanted to do more “faith skills” teaching but I didn’t know how to put it all together. I often feel that we fail to disciple our kids. We teach them in a fun and relevant way, but we don’t really challenge them. Maybe I'm old-school, but I think kids need to be taught the value of meeting with Jesus on a deeper level. Yes, there is a time for fluff and a purpose for fluff, but fluff won’t help kids grow in their relationship with Christ. During this session, so many ideas flowed! I now have a workable model and can get down to business.

After a delicious lunch, we headed to our afternoon workshops. The one I had the privilege of leading was amazing! We had an awesome discussion with each other and the participants seemed to connect. Mind you – we were complete strangers to one another. The only commonality was that we all served in children’s ministry. Some were paid staff, others were volunteers. Some had large ministries, others small. We all had a love for kids and seeing them become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. It was incredible to watch God move as we helped each other in real, tangible ways, offered hope and support, and connected on a level that I didn't expect. I can't wait to see how God moves in our ministries. I’m super excited because I will get to watch him in action too. You see, one of my goals is to network more…and I left with a list of people who are interested in meeting regularly to talk ministry and to support and encourage each other on an on-going basis.

Yay God!

How do you connect this generation to Christ? Whether it is through your list of ten, your faithful service, or your kind words and encouragement to the kids and youth placed in your path - I challenge you to do something to make an impact on the next generation.

I am thankful to have been asked to lead a workshop and be a part of this conference. I am thankful to have met some incredible women of faith. And I am thankful that God has chosen me to invest in the next generation.

So blessed to be able to serve…D

The Love & Respect Experience

I am always intrigued at relationship books. There are so many out there, each promising to do amazing things to your relationships. I have to giggle a little at some of the promises I have seen on the covers of books. And then I feel sad because so many people have believed these promises. The fact is that we can only control ourselves – our thoughts, our words, our behavior. We cannot change anyone except ourselves. Any book that promises you ten sure-fire ways to a new marriage, a new spouse, or a new child is simply fooling you.

I stumbled across this book about a month ago and decided to snatch it up because it looked different.

Different is good.

The Love & Respect Experience is one of a kind. It has 52 short devotionals. Couples can read them together and discuss, using the handy discussion questions at the back of the book. Or, couples can read them on their own and then come together for discussion. That may be a question a night while snuggled up on the couch or some quick thoughts before drifting off to sleep. This book has options!

Dr. Emerson Eggerichs does a fantastic job at appealing to both the husband and the wife – which is tough to do. The book is structured to meet the needs of busy couples. And, most importantly, it will allow individuals to grow in their relationship with God and with their spouse. The topics are real, everyday topics that we struggle with – dealing with differences of opinion, appreciating your spouse, sorting through feelings, honesty, forgiveness, the power of words, and, of course, love and respect. There is no fluff. The purpose of the book is simple – to connect you to Christ and strengthen your marriage.

This is a must read for couples! 2011 is coming to an end. Why not start out 2012 with 52 devotions to lift you up and inspire your marriage? I wish you many blessings as you strive for love and respect – a two-way street!

Keeping it Real…D

Disclosure: I received this book free through BookSneeze.com. I was not required to write a positive review – just an honest one. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

God is Bigger than the Ballot

Today is the day after…election.

I hate the days leading up to election because everyone is trying to convince you that their way is the best way - and they will use any tactic to sway your vote. Sometimes they scare you into believing something bad will happen if you don’t vote the "correct" way. Sometimes they are mean to the other person. Yes, they include some “fact” but with all the "facts" thrown at you, who really knows what is true, right, or real? It’s up to the voter to research and become informed – not swayed.

I also hate the days after as the results are revealed. Some are angry and frustrated and sad. Some point the blame at those who apparently voted differently. Some argue and name call. Then you have those who are happy and gloat. It all spirals out of control. Who has really won?

I'm a right/wrong, black/white kind of girl. But is there right and wrong, black and white, when it comes to politics? I think there is a whole lot of grey. And grey isn't pretty. It's confusing. It's scary. It can be dangerous.

I know some of my friends and I differ in opinion on some issues that were on the ballet. And that’s okay. I’m entitled to my opinion. I’m entitled to my vote. And so are they. I still love them and they are still my friends. I would never point blame or tell them how stupid they are. I would never tell them their vote caused the impending doom for our school, our union friends, or our state. 

I had to shut down FB today. I was sickened by the bashing. My mind was spinning with frustration. Yes, there are some sad things that happened with election. But I fully believe that God is bigger than the ballot. Instead of yelling at each other and pointing blame, how about getting on our knees together and asking God to take care of the details? I'm thankful that we live in a country that allows us the freedom to do this. I'm thankful I serve a God who sees, and knows, and cares.

What will you pray for?

Praying together…D

The Other Mommy

My youngest son has the best imagination ever. It's terrible when I almost sit on his friends! When I get the 3-year old look, I know there are friends I need to walk around, talk to, or feed. He drives a pretend car to go to pretend places and do pretend things. He even has a pretend dog, who took a pretend dump in my living room! Luckily he had a pretend little brother to clean it up! Yea – sometimes it is hard to keep a straight face around here.

Last night as we were going through our bedtime routine, Gavin and I had an interesting conversation. He told me that I was his best mommy ever. I love it when he tells me this, but since I know I am his only mommy, I also know the competition isn’t tough. Last night I broke the news to him. “Gavin,” I said, “you know I am your only mommy, right?”

“What?”

He truly seemed confused, like I was speaking a different language or something. We giggled a little and I asked him if he ever had another mommy. To my surprise (sort of), he said yes!

“Really? Where is she?”

I knew I was in trouble when he looked around the room, scooped up some air, held out his hand, and said, “She’s right here, see?”

There were no words at that point.

I have great kids. Though I usually only share stories about the youngest (there is just so much material…I could do an entire blog on him alone if I had the time), my older two are equally awesome, and perfect to God. 

I’m thankful that I have three healthy children, all with their own unique gifts and talents (and quirks). I’m thankful that I am the one God chose to be their mother. It’s not always easy or fun, but I wouldn’t want anyone different to call son. I am truly blessed.

How have you been blessed?

Keeping it Real…D

BU is BEA-utiful!!

What a day!!

As you may or may not know, we are hanging out in Kentucky this weekend. On Friday we did a campus tour at Bellarmine University. We were totally impressed from the moment we pulled in. The people were great. The students were very real. The campus was breathtaking. Ryan is now dying to graduate, pack his bags, and head south (sniff, sniff)!

Saturday Ryan participated in a baseball camp sponsored by the Bellarmine staff. He’s been to a ton of camps and this was by far the best run. It was organized, instructional, informative, and fun. It also included the playing of several real games, which doesn’t always happen at these types of camps as promised. Ryan really wants to play baseball at the college level and after touring the college, meeting the people, and talking to students, he really, really, really wanted to have a good day in order to get noticed by the coaching staff. He knew he had to bring his A-game. I don’t know what his evaluation will say, but as a spectator (partial, of course), I think he held his own.

Sunday brings eight more hours of opportunity. Please continue to pray for Ryan. If this is where God desires for him to be, then we are trusting that God will work out all the details. And if this isn’t the place God has in store for him, we are praying that God will direct us to the alternative.

I am thankful for many things as we sit in our hotel room, eating pizza and junk food, and talking about the possibilities. I am thankful for the opportunity to come out here and visit the campus my son may one day be living on. I am thankful for the potential scholarships, grants, and other awards Ryan may qualify for in order to fund this college experience he desires. I am thankful for the coaches who took the time to organize a great camp experience. And I am thankful for the talent God has blessed Ryan with.

Check out a few of the pics we took.

Believe it or not, these are dorms! NICE!!

Chapel - They have Catholic services as well as non-denominational services.

The wall of truth

Gavin playing in the water at the wall of truth

The campus is on beautiful grounds

The library

Gavin being blessed...haha

The dining hall

Gavin had to hold the hand of the nun!

Our shadows

Taking a break...his feet were tired

Hugging the statue of Thomas Merton

This was in the baseball locker room

Brothers

Beautiful waterfall in front of one of the dorms

They still found time for a little game of tag

Love

 Thankful for Baseball...D