Stay Awhile

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 Stay.   This has got to be one of my MOST favorite words...especially when in the company of a dear and favorite friend.  Either, I've said it often to my parents - as a youngster - when we would be the guests in someone's home.  I would literally beg.... "Can't we stay longer?"  Or, I would and sometimes, still find myself imploring a friend... to stay for just awhile longer - if they were over for just a simple cup of coffee and a chat.  Why change the moment and end it so soon?

Some of my favorite memories are when our kiddos were a lot younger and friends (whom we affectionately termed Fremily) would come over for, say, Sunday Lunch - after service - and we'd be having such a grand ole time; the kiddos playing so hard and the adults chatting it up or doing a project together, with several pots of coffee later.  It was like pulling teeth to separate and because this happened more than once I can safely say it was many a late night that the kids would crash out on the couches or on the floor.    

To me, this word Stay equates to a sense of belonging.  When your heart is "at home"...you want to just stay!!

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Linking up with the Five Minute Friday (FMF) Community!!  This weeks write-up prompt:

Cup of Talk

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We were at some friends for dinner several years ago now, but I

often think about something my friend mentioned in regards to her family - of while she was a young gal and growing up.

She said that back when they had their dairy farm, AND... this obviously had to happen around

the cows schedule, but that their family would have what they would call:

COFFEE TIME.

This happened everyday at 10:30 am, and again at 4:30 pm in the afternoon.

This what they did. They would all sit down, as a family, around the table
and have a cup of coffee... and talk. Now, that they don't have the dairy farm anymore...one would think this family "ritual" might have changed and gone out with the farm...but, no!
It is a habit that has remained.

I love this!


Quality time; fellowship, talking together, over a good ole cup of hot coffee.
It just might be a good habit to start.

When have you had a good old cup of 'talk', lately??

Let's get together!!

My new mantra - or one, I've been trying to implement - is this:  Phone a friend, at ten!

In and Out of Practice

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I originally posted this a little over five years ago - almost to the date.  Everything about it is STILL the same!!  I felt it appropriate to re share... today!!

**

I felt a little out of practice, with hospitality!  

There is hospitality and then there is extending hospitality.  Both are something I LOVE to do.  Something we LOVE to do, as a couple, in our home.  Both are what we are called to practice!  And, as you keep reading... this is something that my husband does way better at than I.

Because...

For the past two weekends.  On Sunday's   My husband... he did the inviting!

He initiated... and for one of those times...it was a family of six!  Completely spontaneous!!!    The other time - a family of four, whom I did not know - but he and our son both knew, from Scouts!!  What an opportunity!!

I felt a little out of practice.  A little out of sorts.  Spastic!  My nerves were rattled... :)

When life and it's busyness and schedules overrule our calendar and already, we feel like we can hardly stay on top... then, to have this thrown my way??

My hubby loves to tease.  "You wanted a man, just like your dad!".  Yes,it's true! - my father would do this on occasion to my Mom (even when they had nine children of their own!) ... and my husband's right!  I did want this.  I love it that my husband also has a heart for people and "wanting to have them in our home".

Well, needless to say.

I rose to the challenge.

I needed to.

Because folks were coming to our house in less than "two hours!" 
Here's my mantra:  My response makes or breaks a situation.

The thing is...

I felt my husband's care to come alongside, in both instances, and pitch in...

prepping the coffee...

setting the table

arranging the room so as to fit everyone in "better"..

offering to peel potatoes..

running the bissell over the carpets

Whatever else I needed - he was there!  By my side.

Was my house clean?  Tidy, perhaps... but not clean, clean!

Tidy enough?  Perhaps not that either.

But...

If I would have made a scene and had him cancel the plans, his plans... because I wasn't mentally prepared or whathaveyou.  We would have missed out such a blessing!

Perhaps this is a stretch...here.  And, believe me - I am not boasting when I say this.

But, part of me wonders if this isn't my husband's unspoken way of taking this verse to heart.

Her husband has full confidence in her...Proverbs 31:11

I give the Lord praise - that we can work together, as a team, and make others (hopefully!) feel at home... and be at peace.  

What are a few practical ways - I can handle these surprises?  Ways to keep, or stay in practice..?

I have learned that it's okay to keep it simple.

To keep a few "go-to" recipes in the back pocket, is smart, even if it means my family eats the same thing twice in as many weekends!

And, if it helps, don the apron as well as a smile...

If if my knees are shaking underneath, who'll know?

***
Linking up with FMF - writing community!!  On the topic of hospitality!!

This was only a dream...

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I don't know that I have ever done this before in all my time of blogging.   But... I've decided to give it a whirl and that is to share a dream that I had the other night.  I'm not even going to say the usual; "Thank GOD, it was just a dream", because it really did unnerve me and made me wonder what you might think or do if this ever became a reality for you..?

Okay.  here goes.

For whatever reason - we were in a totally different house.  And, my family was all asleep - upstairs.

It was pretty late.  I think I was tidying up the kitchen.  I don't know if our porch light was on or not. But I sensed someone outside, at the front door.

It was a dog.   Never saw it before.  I shooed it off and turned out the light to the kitchen but then I noticed a truck just circling the driveway.   I turned the light back on and watched... it would stop.   Then I would turn it back off.  It would go... around the circle drive again.  (We don't have a circle drive... this was a dream... remember?)

The whole time, I'm thinking I should go wake my hubby up...?

But...What if this stranger really needed help?

You know. 

What if this was an angel... a true visit from "Jesus" himself?  I would feel horrible if it was and I haven't "helped" a stranger who needed something.  Then the other thoughts would come...
No - this is dangerous.  Don't "flirt" with the light - on and off.   This is definitely weird.  

*

*
*
*

Like I said... a dream.  I woke up - I really have no idea how the story ended.   Except that I woke up feeling bothered.

HOW DO YOU KNOW?

Do you ever feel compelled to go out of your way to "help someone in need" and especially in those strange situations... even if and where it really could be something gone wrong?  I know God is not the author of confusion...so maybe this dream was a figurative test to see my reaction?  Testing my faith and Obedience...?  I really don't know.  What would I do...if this happened in reality?

I remember a time - couple of years ago - our family was on vacation.  My kids still talk about this... where we were approached with a "sob story" - a plea for help from an individual.   It was hard to know.  Hard to discern, if they were telling the truth.  But, acting out of obedience my husband felt compelled to oblige the request.   It truly left an impression on our kiddos as they witnessed the whole thing AND it allowed for deeper conversation... about this very thing.

I remember another time, however - where I truly "walked on by"... and {their} eyes still vividly come to mind!!  Here is where I have to trust that the Lord knows my heart...
I still pray for that couple.

***
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. ~ Hebrews 13:2, ESV

The Spirit of Loveliness

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It's bedtime.  More often than not, the only time of day - I get to pull out a book to read.  Too many times, the pile of books that I want to read is higher than my arm is long.  I typically never can stay awake long enough to read, let alone retain - anything - that I may have read, in the first place.  Sure, I want to.  It's just that either life is way busier than I think or other conversations take over and take place... but... that really is no excuse.  Personally.  I just don't like reading - not like I'd like to.  I was talking to a dear friend of mine - on Sunday - at church and we were talking about this very thing... and she said ALMOST the exact same thing is true for her... and ya'll... she's an author.  A homeschooling mama... she HAS to read... and yet, she struggles, too!!  I have never felt so supported as to hear my friend admit to this very thing - herself.
Don't get me wrong.  I love books!  I sure do.  In fact, I try to encourage my kiddos' to read, read, read. That books are their "friends".. they need to treat them well, etc.  Honestly, I really do like feeling the pages in between my fingers.  The way they smell,  the way they open, the clever illustrations.... even the font matters a lot!!! I would much, much rather hold a book in my hand than an electronic device - such as a kindle, etc.   And, yet... the "art" of reading; it's novelty, the time it takes itself to read the words and comprehend... is a real struggle.

Why do I share all of this?  And, why the photos of this book - that I share with you today?

Great question.  So, first off, this book was recommended to me by a cousin of mine, some time ago.  My cousin, Carmen, has truly become a dear, dear friend of mine - someone whom I respect quite highly and has become almost, more like a sister to me than some of own immediate sisters.  I clearly remember the day when Carmen truly encouraged me to open this book and take to heart the "teachings" of Emilie Barnes.  A dear saint of the Lord - who has recently gone home to be with her Saviour.  I would say (in my heart and mind) - Emilie has become a pillar post in the foundation of my "home-making"... and home keeping.  I have really admired the things she wrote and shared.  In fact, I have several of her books.  BUT... this one.  The Spirit of Loveliness... has carried me.  I'm forever indebted to my sweet cousin for her persistence that I get myself a copy of this book.

So.  I got to thinking.  There is no better way to get back to who I am than to dust off the cover of this "dear friend" and because it's format is like that of a coffee table book (its easy to read, in bite-sized chucks) ... I can slowly get back into reading (what I would say) has been and always will be one of my first loves.

For me.  The topic of home- keeping, hospitality, and growing in character (to be that godly influence as a wife and mom; a woman of Christ) ... is my deepest passion and desire.

***
In earlier years of blogging - I have alluded to this book before, although I'm not so sure that I actually referenced it.  There is a post about "glowing windows" whose idea came from this book, I'm pretty sure. You've got to go read that one!!!  I even linked it for you - so you can find it easy and go read...
It is simply another but continual prayer of mine.

Simple Woman's Daybook - August edition

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Oh wow!!  I haven't done one of these Simple Women's Daybooks in a long time... 

Thanks for reading along!!

For Today... the tenth day of August, year two thousand fifteen!  This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24, KJV)


Outside my window... beautiful morning sunshine.  Cooler temperatures, this morning! I hear it is to turn into a rather rainy day - later on.  And its noisy!! With the heavy stream of cars & trucks heading up and down the road - as folks are heading off to work.


I am thinking... I love it that my kiddos are still sound asleep - as I type.  We've had an enjoyable evening, yesterday, as guests - using a pool and having dinner on the grill. They played hard...and had a blast.  Let em sleep!!


I am thankful... my hubby has a pretty good job and one that he thoroughly enjoys  - although very stressful at times. Especially, this week!!


I am wearing... a black t-shirt and a silky polka dot knee-length skirt.  Perfect for a summer day!!


I am creating... a dear friend (old co-worker) of mine asked me if I would hand-quilt a baby quilt for her.  Right now, I'm still in the marking process.. actually, I have started the quilting on some of the straight areas.  I love this!! I'm so glad she asked me if I knew of anyone who would want to do this sort of thing.  She couldn't get it past me.  I swiped it up. :)


I am going... to be helping out some dear friends of mine today - while watching their three kiddos'... so that they can continue and wrap packing - as they plan to move out of state - early on Tuesday AM!


I am wondering... how the day will unfold. Naturally.


I am reading... Well.  Currently... as it's the story of my life... I'm reading two to three books at a time. And - all of these, at best, are being read sporadically.  The one I've been most consistent in is: Love Walked Among Us by Paul E. Miller.


I am hoping... to really enjoy my day today!!  I just got word that another friend and her four little ones will be joining us for the day.


I am learning...  as you can see or have been reading... I started this post way earlier in the morning... and that sometimes it just needs to stop - take time to live life... and then catch back up later.   To go more readily with the flow.. I guess, is what you could say - I'm learning!!


In my garden... are mostly flowers.  But, a few green beans to pick and enjoy eating on the run- (the kids love them) and a few herbs, as well.  Lots of bouquets are made and shared...
Since we don't have a vegetable garden here... I do get some things handed my way.  The usual fare of zucchini, lettuce, kale, cucumbers and tomatoes...

In my kitchen...I'm getting very creative with zucchini.  Preparing it different ways. I'm sure everyone is... because of zucchini being such a bumper crop, this year. One of the ways I plan to use some this evening is to throw a handful of shredded zucc. into a tasty batch of sloppy joe mixture.. a.k.a. Beef BBQ.


A favorite quote for today...
Children in a family are like flowers in a bouquet... There's always one determined to face in an opposite direction from the way the arranger desires. ~Marcelene Cox 

How true is this?

A peek into one of my days...
all we see, everywhere we look are the Queen Anne's Lace... and we shall never, ever tire of it.  One of my most favorite of flowers.

"I'm hiding them from you, mom!"

One of my favorite things... is doing a flower photo shoot!!  You don't tire of those, do you? I sure don't.  I'll post them all tomorrow. :)  That said... another one of my favorite things is to go outdoors, first thing, early morning and capture the day in a photo...or to simply sit and listen - to the world waking up.  And, all of this is before my own little clan wakes up - of course. There is always something very special in that moment... one that I cherish deeply.

Fresh morning air!!

***

**Linked today with the Simple Woman's Daybook and blog!

Five Minute Friday :: {my} world

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Quietly slipping a sealed, stamped envelope into the mailbox... I know it will be soon picked up and delivered to a waiting soul.  She doesn't know it yet -- but its coming.

Later.

Quietly filling aluminum pans, for easy clean-up.  A Blessing Meal is being prepared for a growing family.  Soon to be dropped off, consumed and (hopefully!) enjoyed.  They're anticipating.  They know it's coming.

In the meantime.

I received a phone call from one of my sisters who would like to take my three kiddos for the day - of play - with cousins, over at Grandma Rhoda's house and out for lunch.

Sure, I say.  I didn't anticipate this, but, I am certainly grateful...

The blessing is in the saying of ...Yes!

Another call - followed by a knock on the door.  A neighbor who would like to chat.

I make coffee amidst a meal-making strewn kitchen and sit down...mostly to listen.

Again.  Unanticipated...but, wonderful - just the same.

All of these are simple ways - in one single day -  where I can make a difference.  A small difference of influence...into what is known as my world.  Not to boast... but, just to say... I can do this!

I know this.

It starts at home.  In the home.  From the home  - into another - and there are many!  

Out there in this big, wild world!

***

Today's word prompt was : world

Joining today with Kate who hosts Five Minute Friday - every Friday - at Heading Home!

Taking a bit of time to sit a spell...

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This morning was nice.

While I forgot to grab my camera in the midst of it all, imagine that?, it was sure nice to sit a spell with a couple of girl-friends (from different circles) (gals who didn't know each other, before hand...but who realized they have a couple of mutual friends and a few other commonalities...) and to share a cup of coffee and yummy breakfast-y treats. (smile!)

Share your life, and find the finest joy man can know. 

 Do not be stingy with your heart. 

Get out of yourself into the life of others, and new life 

will flow into you -- share and share alike.

~ Joseph Fort Newton

***

It felt good to dust off the old china and shake out a vintage tablecloth, once more...

Too bad, the cloth didn't get ironed.  But, somehow, that didn't seem to matter at all. 

Five Minute Friday :: Ready (and Giveaway Winner reveal!)

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My house may not be ready, but my heart is.  Come on in!

A mantra of my soul.  A phrase.  One I wish would always be true of me.  One I strive for and often feel a fail over.
When I think of the word READY I think of it as a word that in all honesty can't stand alone.
There needs to be a willingness, first.
A preparing.
A sense of anticipation.
If I want to have a heart and home that is ready...then,
I need to first be at peace.
Peace for whatever comes.
Ready for change.
Willing for it to happen.
Hoping to have a time worth waiting for.

Ready anticipation.
I also believe this isn't meant solely for house-worthiness in having guests over...
this is more a reflection on heart-readiness in the first place.  For every area of life.

Lord, ready me... I pray!

***

Joining with Five Minute Friday and writing for five minutes..

Kate Motaung mentioned in her "introduction" today about a challenge within the challenge...
She was talking about writing for five minutes, every day for the month of October.  You can read about it for yourself, here!  And, know that you're welcome to participate in either or both of these challenges. Five Minute Friday and 31 days...

This made me think back to when I participated in The Nester's 31 days series some time ago.  Back in 2012.  There, I spent 31 days writing on essentially one topic... hospitality!  The link to that series is located on my sidebar.  Feel free to browse through that at your leisure.

Today's prompt -word {READY} took me back to that series and I found a post I had written, back then, that hinges on what I hoped to reflect on here today.

Here is that post, entitled; Field of Dreams.

I'm struck by the thought that just a few short years ago, I honestly didn't know too many families that lived there across the field.

Today... I can tell you I now know SEVERAL families and have had several of them visit our home for meals or for kid-play-dates, etc.  Our children go to school together.  Are in Scouts together.. some of the families; we go to church together, etc.

And my struggle remains the same..

To be ready.

***

So, are you ready for the GIVEAWAY Winner reveal??

First off, I want to share a huge appreciation smile and say thank you for coming here to Treasured Up and Pondered and reading so faithfully.  Thank you - especially for your participation in Monday's Mugs & Muffins post and Giveaway.

It's an encouragement to all...

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

The Giveaway Winner is:  Kathy
Here is her comment:

Thank you, Mitzi, for your story. I too am a breast cancer survivor. 7 years now. And I don't expect it to ever come back. Although I believe that mammograms help, and I always get mine every year, the mammogram I took showed nothing. I felt the lump and was told it was my imagination because the mammogram was clear. I insisted on being treated, was sent to a specialist, and the cancer was found. In all of this God was there not letting me give up and believe the first answer. I say this to remind everyone to get proactive with your treatment.
I could related to everything you said.I never believed I would die. I had been married for all of 8 months having gotten married for the first time at age 52. I prayed and asked God to allow me to have more time and He gave me such peace. I know you will understand when I say this.
Again, thanks for sharing your story. I am so glad you kept your hair. God is so good!

CONGRATULATIONS!!  Kathy - you have been a faithful reader, here and I'm so glad you won this giveaway.  May God bless you.  Your testimony is just as encouraging and beautiful.  Thank you for sharing a snippet of your life with us all..

**Kathy, please email me your mailing information and I will get this gift out to you - asap!
aitsbevy (at) yahoo (dot) com

May you all have a Blessed Weekend!!

{Zucchini} Mock Apple Crisp

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Finding yourself with a surplus of zucchini?  Or, perhaps you will?

Here is a flash-back recipe; a dessert recipe, one I remember my Mother making often - during the summer!

We call it Mock Apple Crisp.  But really it is made with zucchini and quite tasty...and most folks never figure out they're not eating apples...when they eat this!
It's great!

Mock Apple Crisp
6-8 cups peeled and thinly sliced zucchini, (remove seeds!!)
2/3 cup lemon juice
1 cup sugar
1 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cinnamon

Crumbs:
4 cups flour
2 cups sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 cup cold butter

Mix crumb ingredients together; cutting in butter, and put half in an ungreased 9"x13" baking pan; bake at 375* for 10 minutes.
Cook zucchini in lemon juice until tender but not mushy..
Add next three ingredients.  Simmer for one minute.  Add 1/2 cup of reserved crumb mixture to the filling to make it thick.  Set to semi - cool.  Pour this filling over baked crumb/crust and add rest of reserved.  Bake for 30-35 minutes.  Serves: 18-20

Optional.  Drizzle about 2-3 Tbsp. of milk over the top before baking.

This is a great recipe to serve with Ice Cream, whipped cream, milk or to eat simply plain; warm or cold!

I just enjoyed some with my coffee this morning!!  As my breakfast... :)

It's that delicious!!

This recipe is easy to cut in half - making two, each in a 8"x8", and sharing the extra pan with a friend or neighbor along with a few more zucchini - if you have some to share!

Tis the gift of the garden, eh?

***
Linking HERE, this morning!

Five Minute Friday :: this thing called {exhale}

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This post was written and ready to go for Friday - and literally- I had no time to get it up until now..
apparently I was busy living out the words I share below.  I had no idea, fully, how "prophetic" these words would become in the midst of this past weekend.
Thanks for reading!

: go :

I read the prompt, for today. Exhale.

I had to laugh out loud.

That's exactly what I've had to do in the last 24 hours.

For the next 24- 48.

Exhale.

Letting go... of pent up emotion.

Pent up busy waiting to be unearthed.

Aiming... Ready to be on top.

Ready to be on game.

 It's all going to come crashing down if I don't.

Exhale.

Truth is.

I don't need to be anybody or anything different.

I just need to be real.

Ready.

And reflecting Jesus.

I need to be me.

If that means in my exhale.

I cry a little.

that's okay.

If that means in the busy.

and I need to sit down and let others help.

that's okay.

If it means just being in the presence of others... listening.  Letting others exhale.

That's good too.

Jesus says, without me you can do nothing.

I'm helpless on my own.

I have this ever increasing desire to let him do it all. (smile!)

That's having a helpless-dependence on him.

And what he wants.

:: stop ::

Joining up with Five Minute Friday and Lisa -Jo Baker



***

Trust you had a wonderful weekend and a fun-filled Fourth of July!
Ours was packed to gills and just as wonderful..

Mugs & Muffins :: Guest Post on Hospitality by Heather Hoover and a Lilla Rose Giveaway {now CLOSED}

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   Welcome, welcome, welcome!!

It's good to be back here - bright and early, this Monday morning with another Mugs & Muffins Guest Post and Giveaway... oh, and a yummy muffin recipe, as well!  If this is your first time of coming by here, checking out this Mugs & Muffins thing...then to you, I am especially delighted that you've come.  

Make yourself at home!!  Please...

I can't wait to share this one with you!  My RL (in real-life) friend - Heather Hoover will be sharing with us today.  Sharing, with us, a topic that is very near and dear to my heart.  Heather does not have her own blog but perhaps after today - we can convince her she should write and keep a blog. :) Needless to say, after reading her words you might conclude that this gal might not be able to sit still... long enough... to write. Lol!  I have the privilege of knowing Heather in real life and this gal is a riot.  

Love, love, love her!!

Let's get right to this.  Pull up a chair and gather close.  We're here, together, to be encouraged.  And, I trust you are.  If you haven't grabbed your cup of coffee, do so now.  And we'll pass around the tray of muffins... :)  Don't you wish?   My daughters are eager to help...

They look scrumptious... and that's because they are!
The recipe, for Heather's Pumpkin Muffins, will follow at the end of the post, today!

Here is our guest, now...
:: Hospitality, at home and away! ~ Heather Hoover

I’m going to spend some time today talking about something Bevy’s talked a lot about!  Hospitality!  I know Bev has covered it and promotes it, but I'm going to have a different approach to it! If you have ever gotten overwhelmed at the thought of having someone over for coffee and muffins, you’ll love this post.  I mean we can't all be Bevy! (Bev: Hey! HEY!!)

I went thru a phase in my life where I had people over almost every Sunday after Church.  And guess what? I didn't even know who!  I just got lots of food ready and we invited whoever we felt like that day.  I loved it and my kids loved it.  I’m not sure my husband loved it.  In fact, I know he didn't love it!  Now, however, my life has changed a lot and now I guard that Sunday lunch with just my family!  I really don't want to have anyone else over.  (Except you!  If you would show up at my church I know I would have you home!  Even my husband says every now and then “Hey, so and so is here, you better invite them over!”)

I’m in the stage of life where I’m running!  We have piano lessons every weds night, baseball 2-3 nights a week, swim team 3-5 times a week, kids club once a month, 4H meetings and responsibilities, chorus concerts, open houses, birthday parties, and you know how endless the list is!  My husband and I try to keep a tight rein on the schedule.

By the way.  This is NOT Heather's calendar...it's just a Stock Photo!

But even with doing the minimum, it still gets very busy!  I love having that Sunday lunch time for just us. And even better, my husband’s home.  He rarely eats supper with us during the week, so it’s great for all of us to come together! Even the neighborhood kids know we are eating lunch together and won’t play.  Of course, they still call just to make sure!
So where in the world can I be hospitable to people?  I really don’t have any more time to have people over and I really feel like I do need to guard my family’s  time. 

Well, I've come up with a few solutions.  Most importantly, hospitality is, I believe, a state of mind.  Being hospitable means being welcoming. We can welcome people wherever we are, not just in our own homes!

Here are a few examples:

When I’m at swim team practice, it’s so nice to sit with my “old” friends and chat!  We have a lot to catch up on after all!  It’s about 4 of us moms love to talk!  But I try very hard to not sit with them every night!

I sat one night with a Mom who is raising her children in the Jewish faith.  We spent the evening talking about how important we both feel family is and how to balance the time with children’s activities.  She struggles because for her, the Friday night Shabbat is very important similar to our Sunday lunch.  However, there are many practices and games and other events that fall on Friday nights.  So she struggles with how many to do and how many to skip. I had such a great time talking with her.  It reminded me that other people are struggling with the pull of the world’s activities and their family’s needs.  It wasn’t easy for me to go and sit on a different bench away from my friends who were having a great time chatting and laughing. But what a rich time I had, sharing mutual struggles with my new friend.

Sometimes we take our supper to the games or practices.  If you bring extra you can share.  Muffins! Pumpkin Muffins.  They're easy to make, they make a lot and it's one recipe that everyone loves.  So, an idea might be:  you can pass out muffins to all those other little kids your younger kids might be playing with! Who wouldn't like to be known as a Mom who brings muffins to games? (the recipe will be at the end of the post!)

One evening at swim practice, my usual cohorts weren't there!  What to do?  I hadn't brought a book, and my phone doesn’t always get internet in the pool area. So I couldn’t just hide in my smart phone.  I was going to have to talk to a person.  In fact, I was going to talk to someone I didn’t know! I started talking to the mom next to me.  She is from India and I will admit, it wasn't the easiest conversation I have ever had!

But we kept talking and understanding, one another better. We spent the evening chatting about supper times! Traditionally in India, supper is served late like 9 pm.  I asked her if she did that here in America.  (She does not.) We commiserated on how hard it is to feed children easy nutritious meals, especially when practice times are the traditional meal times. Then we realized our daughters were in the same grade and therefore both in orchestra practice together.  When she told me her husband was traveling for business and she couldn't figure out how to do all the transportation, I was happy to help.  I picked up her daughter from orchestra, fed her lunch and took her to the swim meet. My daughter got to know her daughter better, which was helpful during orchestra practices. Another friend and ally in this crazy world!

One evening after baseball practice I asked several other families who I really didn't know all that well if they would like to go to the Dairy Queen after the game! I believe most people are looking for an excuse to go out for ice cream. And/or just to get together with other families!  

That was a great night in getting to know other parents and other kids on the team.  I love the sense of community that comes from being on a team.  I have learned to know so many other people in my town, and I love it!  The more people I know out in the community, the safer I feel having my children being involved in sports.  I feel now like there are always other parents around I trust, in case it’s a night where I have to drop my kid off and go.  Isn't that a great feeling?  That comes from people building a community.  If you attend Church, you probably feel comfortable dropping your child off in Sunday School.  Right?  Well, part of the reason is, is you probably know the teacher.  That’s how I feel at sport events.  But it wasn't always like this. 
It’s from getting out of my comfort zone and talking to other parents.  Especially the parents I don't know!

One other way I've been able to show hospitality is thru my business.  I am actually a consultant for a direct sales company...Lilla Rose.  Because I have inventory in stock, I often have people stopping by to come and buy things.

Now, I don't necessarily brew some coffee and make them a great recipe from Bevy’s blog, but I do sit down and we talk.  Sometimes it’s a business transaction only.  But ofttimes we talk about life and kids and husbands and working.  And maybe even a prayer thrown in there.  I would have never thought having a small business in my home would have me practicing hospitality, but it happened.  The nice part of that is I don't feel like I have to prepare foods or even clean my house.  And it doesn't inconvenience my husband!  He’s not even home when they come over!

I've really come to think of hospitality as a welcoming heart.  No matter where we are!  Maybe you can be welcoming to your neighbor kids.  I’m currently working on that one myself!  Bevy and I would love to hear how you have welcomed people wherever you are.

We are also having a giveaway.  I, Heather, will be giving away my very favorite Lilla Rose flexiclip.  It’s not even available anymore.  This is a purple flexiclip and has these great words on it; “Faith Hope Love”.   As you can see in the picture, it also has a removable charm that says “Mom”.  If you aren't a Mom, you can still wear this flexiclip. The picture shows it both ways.

If you are even wondering what a flexiclip is, you have to try them out!  It’s a fabulous hair solution!  And seeing is believing.  They look pretty unassuming but they work!  Isn't that what you want?  An accessory that actually works!

If you don't win the giveaway, no worries.  There are still plenty of great things available for you.  Like my favorite hairband! Stop by my website or, if you're local you may contact me to meet me somewhere!  I would love to help you get some happy hair! 

Thank you for letting me share with you, today! 
Sincerely,
Heather


Your entrance to the Giveaway!! 
Share with us... a time... when you were either a recipient of someone's hospitality "on-the-go"...or you took the time to go out of your way; blessing someone else.  This is solely meant for encouragement purposes.

How did it make you feel?  You came away with...

Each comment, either of your own or a reply to another's comment earns you one entry.  Let's dialogue... shall we?
As well.  You can LIKE Heather's Facebook Page - for another two entries.  Let me know you did so in your initial comment.  Thanks!

Have fun!!

** This GIVEAWAY will end on Wednesday - the 18th of June! at 10:00 pm, EST.  The winner will be notified and announced later in the week..
It is okay to enter for this giveaway - even if you don't have a blog of your own.  Please be sure to include your name and way of contacting you..
** THIS GIVEAWAY is NOW CLOSED.  Thanks for participating.

:: Recipe::

Pumpkin Muffins
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
15-16 oz can pumpkin
¾ cup vegetable oil
¾ plain yogurt
3 cups flour
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp salt
2 cups chocolate chips  (I used the mini chips..)

In a large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, pumpkin, oil, and yogurt until smooth.  In a separate bowl combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt.  Add dry ingredients to pumpkin mixture and mix until moistened.  Add dry ingredients to pumpkin mixture and mix until moistened.  Fold in chocolate chips.  Put one quarter cup of batter in a each muffin cup.  Bake at 350 for 17 minutes or until done. (A toothpick comes out clean).

Share and enjoy!

Thank you, so much, to each one of you for coming by, today! I hope you enjoyed...
Special thanks to my friend Heather for sharing, so vulnerably, her heart!  I know I've been challenged to get out of my comfort zone and be a bit more hospitable.  All around.  Not just in and from my home - but while out and about.

 How about you?

Thanks for reading, here today and have fun in and with the Giveaway!  See you next time!

Please be Praying...

.. .... .. ... .. ... .. .... ... .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..... .. .
UPDATE:  Dear Prayer Team...  Thank you for your prayers. We arrived safely in Budapest and are back home. We praise God for your prayers. The kids were exhausted but already got some rest and are enjoying being back home. ~ J & A Alleman and family

What dear friends.  What an opportunity!
We're going to miss these guys.

 Thanks for coming back here today.

 I mentioned in yesterday's post that I had a prayer request of sorts... and this is what it is.  Please be praying for Jared and Abby Alleman and their three beautiful kids.

{via}

This dear family, (as I type) are in an airplane, right now, heading back to Hungary.  They should arrive sometime on the 10th!  Today!!  Although - I am not sure the time differences, etc.

They live there - as missionaries; learning/have learned the language *which is very hard* - working with Cru.

They had been back here, in the States, for about 6 weeks.  Visiting here with friends and family and supporters...and during that time, it was our family's awesome privilege to watch their little ones for several hours each week - just to give Jared and Abby time to do what they needed to do, PR -wise (public relations) and or errands, etc.

One afternoon - Abby stayed too! Hence the collage of photos up top.  It was so great to just sit, share lunch and coffee!!  OH, COFFEE! and just chat away; fully catching back up...she is such a sweet sister in the Lord. 

You may recall from my very first official Mugs & Muffins, two years ago or so, that I had asked my friend, Abby,  to write a guest post, on Motherhood...which she so wonderfully did.  This was just as they were getting ready to officially move to Budapest, Hungary.

This quotes resembles my friend in so many ways...

Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same. ~ Unknown

I'm so glad I have this footprint, freshly impressed, in and on my heart!
And now that of each of her family as well...

Be sure to keep abreast of their mission outreach and be praying for them and their ministry as you are led.
You can follow along on Abby's Facebook page, as well.

They truly are doing the work of God... evangelizing and making every effort to share the good news of Jesus Christ!  They are humbly serving HIM and I continue to be encouraged as I read their praise upon praise upon praise - reports of the work that is going on in the hearts of so many people.

Over this past weekend...

.. ... ... ... .. .... . ... .. ... .. .. ... .. .. .. .. .... .. .. .. .

Hello and Good Morning!

There is nothing like waking up to a beautiful Friday morning and sharing the moment with each other and with you!

Caleb - my six year old, son - was having fun manning the camera, which I had had tucked into my pocket for that "you never know" moment.  You know the kind!

We were waiting for the bus to arrive - Friday morning!!

I laughed as he plopped to the grass and took several "close-up" photos talking about some painter-artist he had learned about in art class, at school.  "This is how it is done, mom!" He would say... and without inhibition that is what he did.  Can we say, he's a natural??

As he left for school... pulling away on the bus.  I hear the house door open and see two little gals with jackets and boots.  One in PJ's, still.  Ready to enjoy the morning sunshine, and beautiful fresh air with me.

I hang laundry and think it REALLY is the most beautiful kind of days to enjoy like this. Thanking the Lord for dirt to play in and turn over and wait for seeds to grow.  The girls and I meander around the house; the yard, and see that the peonies are rising to the occasion.

***

We had a lot of plans in store for the weekend.  Some of which included - roller skating at our local skating rink.  A first for everything.  And to quote my husband... Perhaps this is something you just shouldn't do again after 30 years.  I had lots of fun watching from the sidelines and seeing my little ones "learn something new and different".  Different other than roller skating in and around my kitchen and carpeted living areas.  (smile!)

This was the real deal.

 ***

Another thing (fun time & blessing) that happened over the weekend was me hosting a Ladies Breakfast in my home.  Scott took the kids out for a McD's breakfast and time with cousins... this was also due to the fact that both Caleb and Aubrey (her first!)  lost teeth - that desperately needed to come out.  (Eeeks -McD's was just a small bribe, I guess!)

It was so nice to meet together again, as CG ladies.  Five of us.  Several were unable to attend albeit for various reasons. And they were truly missed..

Our time together - over the next several meetings/breakfasts- will include going through this book together.

I'm really looking forward to growing in this area of ... A Praying Life.

It's going to be a good read.  I can tell.

***

Still more...

Was a wonderful service at Church, Sunday Morning, with an opportunity afterwards to spontaneously host our dear, dear friends (a family of six) to our home for Sunday Lunch.  I'm so glad they said "yes!"

No pics... because we were so immensely enjoying one another's company and sharing the heart matters that really keep us beating strong.   Oh, my!!  We needed this.

((sigh))

***

This week, looking ahead, is a busy one.  I may or may not be present. Much....here!!

You understand.

Thoughts, prayers and blessings... bunches of `em... sent your way!