"For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. "
Isaiah 9:6
Friday, December 23, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Surely there must be more
Giving.
You could see it in the way the mother smiled when she talked and as she interacted with her baby boy.
They family didn't have much, but they had come so far.
I quickly forgot my agenda for the visit and my mind started racing to various programs and services that could meet this families needs. As I asked a few basic questions, it was obvious this mom needed someone to talk to. Such hopelessness in her eyes. Her husband had lost his job several weeks ago and they had been without income. They were hoping to move out of state to be with other family, but had no money for travel. She continued to pour out her heart, yet not once asked me for anything.
I brought the grocries in from the car and helped empty them into the bare cabinets. There wasn't much I could offer except for a listening ear, a few grocries, and some sort of hope for their future. I knew my agenda and activites that I had prepared for this visit wasn't enough. God had prepared this visit. This new young mom was not going to be interrested in learning parenting skills if all she's thinking about right now is surrival. God was allowing me to see how he would use the generousity of the first family to reach this desperate family. He was allowing me to see only a tiny part of his might plan.
The next day when I arrived at the office, I started looking up resources for them. They needed help and I was determined to do whatever I could to get them whatever help they needed. However, I soon found out that would be the last time I would ever see that family. When I called later that week, their phone was disconnected. I drove out to their house several times and no one answered the door. I couldn't stop thinking about them and wondering where they were, how they are, and if God is meeting their needs. I couldn't forget about them. Surely He hasn't forgotten.
I am thankful for that day and how God allowed me to witness and be a testimoney of his work. So often we don't get to see the other side. Although we're called to give, so often we doubt that God will use our gift. That family still comes to my mind often. So how come, so often I am still reluctant to give?
When I was working as a Family Support Worker with Healthy Families, I visited new mom's after they had a baby. I would often go from home-to-home back-to-back. This one cold winter day in particular, I was traveling from one trailer park to across town to another one. The first family I visited had been in the program for several months and were really striving.
You could see it in the way the mother smiled when she talked and as she interacted with her baby boy. They family didn't have much, but they had come so far.
As I arrived, the mother invited me in their warm home. There was a blanket and several toys I lent them the week before were spread out on the floor and they were ready for the visit. Her son had just learned to take his first steps, and she was so excited to have him show me. The visit was an hour long and as I was leaving, this new young mom asked if I knew anyone who could use some extra grocries. She had several grocrey bags full of items such as eggs, cereal, dry beans, juice, and milk. Extra grocries they have not used from WIC. She asked me if I would pass them on or keep them for my own family as she did not want them to go bad and have to throw them out. I really wasn't sure what I would do with all of it, but obliged to take it off their hands.
The next visit was with a family new to the program. This was my first time visiting to try to engage them in the program. The house was cold and dark. The mother greeted me and invited me inside. Inside the house was almost as cold as the outside winter. She quietly appoligized for the cold and turned on a small light to light one corner of the empty living room. She disappeared for several minutes into a dark bedroom and came out with a small floor heater and two folding metal chairs. After she disappeared a second time, she came back with a sleeping baby bundled up with several layers of blankets in his carseat. She appoligized again for the chairs being cold as we sat down together.
I quickly forgot my agenda for the visit and my mind started racing to various programs and services that could meet this families needs. As I asked a few basic questions, it was obvious this mom needed someone to talk to. Such hopelessness in her eyes. Her husband had lost his job several weeks ago and they had been without income. They were hoping to move out of state to be with other family, but had no money for travel. She continued to pour out her heart, yet not once asked me for anything.
I brought the grocries in from the car and helped empty them into the bare cabinets. There wasn't much I could offer except for a listening ear, a few grocries, and some sort of hope for their future. I knew my agenda and activites that I had prepared for this visit wasn't enough. God had prepared this visit. This new young mom was not going to be interrested in learning parenting skills if all she's thinking about right now is surrival. God was allowing me to see how he would use the generousity of the first family to reach this desperate family. He was allowing me to see only a tiny part of his might plan.
The next day when I arrived at the office, I started looking up resources for them. They needed help and I was determined to do whatever I could to get them whatever help they needed. However, I soon found out that would be the last time I would ever see that family. When I called later that week, their phone was disconnected. I drove out to their house several times and no one answered the door. I couldn't stop thinking about them and wondering where they were, how they are, and if God is meeting their needs. I couldn't forget about them. Surely He hasn't forgotten.
I am thankful for that day and how God allowed me to witness and be a testimoney of his work. So often we don't get to see the other side. Although we're called to give, so often we doubt that God will use our gift. That family still comes to my mind often. So how come, so often I am still reluctant to give?
“The poor and needy search for water,
but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst.
But I the Lord will answer them;
I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them."
Isaiah 41:17
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Boys and Girls
The other night Alisia's school had Chic-fil-a night we went to and Caleb got to see several friends from last year. One of the girls that used to be in his class came directly over to our table and started twirling her hair and says "HIIIIIIiiiii Caaaleeeeb"
Caleb barely making eye contacted responded with "hi," but was obviously embarrassed because his family and friends were around too. He tries ignoring her then she says "Caleb, We have 23 people in our class this year and if you were in our class it'd be 24" still twirling her hair.
Caleb's response "So, I don't care."
She goes on to tell him all about 2nd grade and their teacher and speed drills in math and learning cursive and everything else he's missed.
After not much response from Caleb, she walks away still with a big smile on her face.
Alisia gets after him for his response to her and gives him advise on treating girls. His friend also tries giving him advise cause now there's a girl he likes too.
Caleb just isn't there yet. And that's OK with me. Maybe he does need a few lessons on how to respond politely. But I love how boys and girls are so different at this age and I'm kinda happy that for now, girls are still yucky. I know it won't be like that forever.
Caleb barely making eye contacted responded with "hi," but was obviously embarrassed because his family and friends were around too. He tries ignoring her then she says "Caleb, We have 23 people in our class this year and if you were in our class it'd be 24" still twirling her hair.
Caleb's response "So, I don't care."
She goes on to tell him all about 2nd grade and their teacher and speed drills in math and learning cursive and everything else he's missed.
After not much response from Caleb, she walks away still with a big smile on her face.
Alisia gets after him for his response to her and gives him advise on treating girls. His friend also tries giving him advise cause now there's a girl he likes too.
Caleb just isn't there yet. And that's OK with me. Maybe he does need a few lessons on how to respond politely. But I love how boys and girls are so different at this age and I'm kinda happy that for now, girls are still yucky. I know it won't be like that forever.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Crayon Love
I have this picture hanging in my office at work:
And I smile every single time I look at it.
This picture is so precious to me for so many reasons.
The "blonde" one is me.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Monday, August 1, 2011
One more spot...
In my day job, I have to work every 5th weekend. UGGgghhHH! I soo dread those weekends! I feel like I'm missing out. I feel like there's so much happening on weekends. Even if we have no plans, I'm missing a weekend to do nothing.
I'm so glad we are not meant to face these things alone. I'm so thankful for my other half, my husband, the man I'm called to be his help meet. Thankful that he can be there when I'm not. Since this weekend I was busy at work, that left one more spot in the van. We generally have 2 of the girls with us, but this weekend all 4 of the younger children came to church. I'm sure this had to make God smile. Angel was so proud of all his "7 kids" at church. He did turn down going out to lunch afterwards with my parents, and decided to clean out the fridge. Literally. I'm amazed how far a pack of tortillas and 1lb of cheese can stretch. Reminding me of Jesus feeding the 5,000. And makes me wonder how many more we can fit around our Sunday lunch table....
I'm so glad we are not meant to face these things alone. I'm so thankful for my other half, my husband, the man I'm called to be his help meet. Thankful that he can be there when I'm not. Since this weekend I was busy at work, that left one more spot in the van. We generally have 2 of the girls with us, but this weekend all 4 of the younger children came to church. I'm sure this had to make God smile. Angel was so proud of all his "7 kids" at church. He did turn down going out to lunch afterwards with my parents, and decided to clean out the fridge. Literally. I'm amazed how far a pack of tortillas and 1lb of cheese can stretch. Reminding me of Jesus feeding the 5,000. And makes me wonder how many more we can fit around our Sunday lunch table....
"Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish."
John 6:11
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
(Proverbs) 31 at (age) 31
Ahh, the blessings of a birthday... reflecting on your life and looking toward the future. As I think about this year, I am often reminded of Proverbs 31 (and Titus 2) that speak dirrectly to women. As I read over these two chapters again and again, it really speaks to my heart as it encompasses the many different roles we as women have to balance.
Let's have a look:
1) noble character 16) keeps herself beautiful
2) value 17) speaks well of her husband
3) brings good 18) not fearful
4) works with eager hands 19) speaks wise words
5) makes good decisions 20) gives faithful instruction
6) provides food 21) watches over her home
7) is not lazy 22) not idle
8) smart with money 23) loves her husband
9) hard worker 24) loves her children
10) realizes her work is worthwhile 25) contributes to her family
11) creative homemaker 26) Fears the Lord
12) reaches out 27) self-controlled
13) ministry 28) pure
14) well prepared 29) busy at home
15) provides for household needs 30) kind
31) subject to her husband
Oh, how I strive to be this godly woman, but oh how I fall short!
Things I can do to keep striving for 31 at 31:
*more time in God's word
*praying specifically for these godly traits, my roles, my husband and children
*asking God to open my eyes to the deep needs of those around me and how God can use me
*limiting my distractions
*limit my commitments and my children's extra curricular activities
Let's have a look:
1) noble character 16) keeps herself beautiful
2) value 17) speaks well of her husband
3) brings good 18) not fearful
4) works with eager hands 19) speaks wise words
5) makes good decisions 20) gives faithful instruction
6) provides food 21) watches over her home
7) is not lazy 22) not idle
8) smart with money 23) loves her husband
9) hard worker 24) loves her children
10) realizes her work is worthwhile 25) contributes to her family
11) creative homemaker 26) Fears the Lord
12) reaches out 27) self-controlled
13) ministry 28) pure
14) well prepared 29) busy at home
15) provides for household needs 30) kind
31) subject to her husband
Oh, how I strive to be this godly woman, but oh how I fall short!
Things I can do to keep striving for 31 at 31:
*more time in God's word
*praying specifically for these godly traits, my roles, my husband and children
*asking God to open my eyes to the deep needs of those around me and how God can use me
*limiting my distractions
*limit my commitments and my children's extra curricular activities
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Little Shadow
When I got home from work, Aaron greeted me at my car like this:
The best part is Papi lets Aaron help and loves teaching him. Loves his Little Shadow.
Working together. Bonding.
I walked around the house and found Papi doing this (mowing and smoking a cigar):
Aaron loves to follow Papi around and do what he does. His shadow.
Aaron is so teachable right now and loves to help. 
The best part is Papi lets Aaron help and loves teaching him. Loves his Little Shadow.
Working together. Bonding.
Angel does this with the other kids, too. So many times when Papi could get the job done much faster and efficient, he takes the time and lets them be a part of the hard work, and lets them rejoice in the end result. And he takes the time to praise them through it all.
I imagine that God does this too with us. He could get the job done without us, but allows us to take part of His work. May our work be well done, so that we will be called His "Good and Faithful servant." (Matt 25:14-30)
I imagine that God does this too with us. He could get the job done without us, but allows us to take part of His work. May our work be well done, so that we will be called His "Good and Faithful servant." (Matt 25:14-30)
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
The Song in Her Heart
I've talked a little bit about the girls that spend weekends at our house. On any given Sunday at church, we can have anywhere from 1-4 extra children with us. I guess if you're behind us at church and don't know our family well, it might look like a big family and a lot of kids. It doesn't usually feel like a lot, until we have lunch and have to scrounge for chairs and spread out at the table and along the bar. It's just something we've grown used to.
They have had some recent events that has allowed them to spend even more time than just on weekends at our house. I will admit, sometimes I struggle to find the balance of family time, and including them. But God is always faithful in showing me that it's not about me, or my own family, but ultimately about Him and giving Him the glory with our lives.
The other day I was dropping N off at school. I had just dropped Aaron off at the babysitters and it was just her and I in the car. It's only a 2 minute drive from our house to the school. We had K-love on and she recognized Chris Tomlin's song "How Great is Our God" from church and started singing along, so I turned it up and we sang the whole way to school. As soon as she came home that day she said, "I've had that song in my head all day!" It was a great opportunity to talked about how God is always with us no matter what we're doing and where we are, and we can always pray to him in our heart or sing a song to Him and he hears us!
What a difference of some from some of the other songs she knows every word to by heart. She kept singing for the rest of the day.
They have had some recent events that has allowed them to spend even more time than just on weekends at our house. I will admit, sometimes I struggle to find the balance of family time, and including them. But God is always faithful in showing me that it's not about me, or my own family, but ultimately about Him and giving Him the glory with our lives.
The other day I was dropping N off at school. I had just dropped Aaron off at the babysitters and it was just her and I in the car. It's only a 2 minute drive from our house to the school. We had K-love on and she recognized Chris Tomlin's song "How Great is Our God" from church and started singing along, so I turned it up and we sang the whole way to school. As soon as she came home that day she said, "I've had that song in my head all day!" It was a great opportunity to talked about how God is always with us no matter what we're doing and where we are, and we can always pray to him in our heart or sing a song to Him and he hears us!
What a difference of some from some of the other songs she knows every word to by heart. She kept singing for the rest of the day.
"He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God."
Psalm 40:3a
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Dear (Named) Middle School Girl,
I know that middle school is a new time in your life where you are finding a new sense of self identity. I don't know if I tell you this enough, but I want you to always know that I am so proud of you as you are about to finnish this first very challenging year of middle school.
You stand up for what you know is right. Even if it's not-so-popular. Like when a (not-so-popular) girl in your class was planning a special birthday party and invited all the girls in the class. But none of the girls would actually say if they were going. You were the first one to say you were going and encouraged everyone else to go. And even though you didn't check with me first, I know you did the right thing.
And when a friend of yours has a birthday, you always want her to feel special and you bring her a gift to school. Even if you're not invited to her birthday party.
You have such a gentle way of sharing God's love with others. Like when you told me about some of your friends who are no longer friends, and put you in the middle. But you stood up for your friend by continuing to be her friend even when no one else would. You are an example of how to be Jesus' hands and feet.
You're growing in your personal relationship with Jesus. You faithfully set your alarm every Tuesday for 5:45 and get ready for Bible Study with your youth group girls. Your Bible study leader told me even when the other girls don't show up, they know they can count on you to be there. Even though you might dread getting up that early, God sees your faithfulness.
Sometimes I wish I could protect you from every problem, every tear, and every heartbreak. And middle school can be full of tears. Sometimes my heart breaks and I want to cry for you. But you are quick to forgive. You always keep your head up and you remain joyful. And through these situtations you face, I can see God molding you into a beautiful,--inside and out--godly young lady. Oh, how His heart must smile when he looks at you, just like mine does! I can't wait to see what God has in store for your future! As you continue to follow him with you heart, he will be faithful to bring you through.
You stand up for what you know is right. Even if it's not-so-popular. Like when a (not-so-popular) girl in your class was planning a special birthday party and invited all the girls in the class. But none of the girls would actually say if they were going. You were the first one to say you were going and encouraged everyone else to go. And even though you didn't check with me first, I know you did the right thing.
And when a friend of yours has a birthday, you always want her to feel special and you bring her a gift to school. Even if you're not invited to her birthday party.
You have such a gentle way of sharing God's love with others. Like when you told me about some of your friends who are no longer friends, and put you in the middle. But you stood up for your friend by continuing to be her friend even when no one else would. You are an example of how to be Jesus' hands and feet.
You're growing in your personal relationship with Jesus. You faithfully set your alarm every Tuesday for 5:45 and get ready for Bible Study with your youth group girls. Your Bible study leader told me even when the other girls don't show up, they know they can count on you to be there. Even though you might dread getting up that early, God sees your faithfulness.
Sometimes I wish I could protect you from every problem, every tear, and every heartbreak. And middle school can be full of tears. Sometimes my heart breaks and I want to cry for you. But you are quick to forgive. You always keep your head up and you remain joyful. And through these situtations you face, I can see God molding you into a beautiful,--inside and out--godly young lady. Oh, how His heart must smile when he looks at you, just like mine does! I can't wait to see what God has in store for your future! As you continue to follow him with you heart, he will be faithful to bring you through.
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