I wonder...

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What if you have been praying and praying for something to change and in your heart you know that what you decide is really going to shake things up.  Can you relate to this?  Let me ask this...

Have you ever been truly misunderstood, before?  If so.  Did you expect it to happen, or did it come as a shock, to you?  How did it make you feel?

I can remember three specific times, in my lifetime - where I knew it was going to probably happen.  I also knew I would have to be okay with the fact that people (mostly close friends and family) were not going to understand me; that, they weren't too sure - what I was up to...and why?   "Why in the world would Bevy ever rock the boat?"... I know, was the question.  It wasn't my nature.  I wasn't the type.  People liked me for who I was.  They were comfortable.  Why change - anything?  I remember reassuring myself and resolving myself to this... it truly was going to be okay.  

Here are those three specific moments...

1. When I parted with the conservative, Mennonite church over 20 years ago.  Don't get me wrong.  I appreciate my godly heritage...and, I STILL love Jesus with my whole heart - he's ALL that matters! Truly.

2. When I met my hubby online through eHarmony.  BTW: We've been happily married now for 15 years and have three beautiful blessings to wrap our hearts and arms around. We love our kids!!

3. When I started my own home-based, business - in health and wellness, little over 5 years ago.  Little did I know - that THIS was going to be SOOOO AMAZING!!  Not sure which is better - the opportunity or the products!?!  They truly go hand in hand.

Being misunderstood; was it easy, for me?  No!  But, each time I chose to stand strong in where I knew God was leading me.  And... EACH decision... has been life-changing; life-enriching, for me, as well.  I'm sure life will be filled with more of these times of misunderstandings - as time moves on.  It's sort of the nature of life.  However, I'm #sograteful for each of these times in my life, being part of my story. :)

My biggest takeaway and one that I want to encourage you to consider, is this:  Don't shy away from something you know is most likely to be an answer to the prayers of your heart.  I often wonder, what if I had said "NO!!!" and kept to my comfort zone... I wonder where I'd truly be today?  

Would that be the same for you??  

Flipping the Script

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For the record, I posted a poll on my social media page, the other day, and asked what people would say, in first response, to the question - What Do You Do?  I got a varied span of responses, some were confused (reading too much into the question) and others surprised me, by their answers.  Here is the backstory...

**

It had been a beautiful night for sleeping; cooler than lately... and I had slept great!  Except, that...

I awoke this particular Monday morning filled with a restlessness and angst.  Weary of the feelings I've been having lately.  A sense of wanting to throw in the towel, yet hang on for dear life to things that remain a huge part of me and "my line".  And, that being... what it is that I do.

I love my husband, a lot, I'm so grateful to God for him in my life... but there is (and, has been for awhile) something missing.  I miss - us!  A bond; a connection, that has slipped off into la-la land.  So part of my wrestling is me thinking - "What is my part to play to finding that again?"  (Don't worry.  He and I have talked about this - so he knows I'm sharing this.) :) 

So, here I am.  Stretching and waking up.  I roll out of bed; sitting on the edge... I pick up a book** from out of my bedside table. (at the moment, not really sure I know why I pick this one up!)  I literally thumb through the pages - stopping at a chapter of which the title, that at first read (probably in my sleepiness), made absolutely no sense.  I paused long enough to reread and this time - it grabbed me!

I actually read through the chapter, now, and the aha light kept getting brighter.  This was it!!  This author was definitely on to something.

What I've never said... was a link to what and why I was feeling the way I was feeling about us - meaning my husband and I.

Basically, the gist of this chapter is what "woke me up".   When someone asks what it is that we do? How often do we automatically go to our job and our vocation to explain what we do followed by being a mom of three (as an example) and so on - as though that is our first and top priority - never mentioning our spouse?   The author suggests that - as he had learned from an older persons response to this question: "I sure do love my (spouse's name!)" - that our spouse needs to be part of our top three!  

I'm going to derail for a moment and say this.  I've been going through a lot of personal growth, with my home based business, lately and one thing I've learned is that the words we say to ourselves; in our subconscious; over our teams and our businesses, etc. matter.    So, this was making sense to me.  WHY do we not speak more about what we do - in a literal sense.  And - by giving my hubby his place as first in what I'm all about. then my family, my home and my business... 

Something like this.

Question: So, what do you do?  

Answer:  I get to love on and serve alongside my husband Scott....!! Together, we have three beautiful blessings... I'm a stay-at-home, new-to-homeschooling, mamma - who happens to also have a home based business on the side... etc.

Why do we save "us" as a leftover thought?  It's like we're married after the dishes are done and the house is settled.  It's like we're married after the yard is mowed and the toys get tinkered with and the honey-do list is tackled.  It's like we're married only after the bills are paid, the house work settled and the homework is checked?   The kids get all the immediate conversation and plans or schedule created around  and then we're "married"....with not much energy left over but a head sunk deep into the pillows and "lights are out"....

If I literally only flipped the script...?

I'm wondering if my heart would be more at peace about how I'm feeling, about us as a couple, overall?

So, back to this quick poll that I did on FB... like I mentioned, I was surprised by some of the answers. This is and was NO WAY a put down to anyone.  I simply wanted to see if anyone would include their spouse - as part of their immediate response.

 Heart-warming to read, there were one or two that mentioned their spouse in their top three.

**

My point being in ALL of this... marriages are on the brink today - for many, varying reasons.  Too many, of them.  Sadly, it is a slow fade and I don't want that to be part of my story.  I want to be aware.  Intentional.  I want US to be together - till death do us part.  And, while our days don't always go down perfectly - at the end of the day - we hold hands together (Praying, often falling asleep together, side-by-side!) that even though we may not always be in agreement on things... the one thing, that is true, is that we are together as "US". 

Thinking about each other first.  Professing our love for one another, to others, as something that we do, (a.k.a. Do What You Love!) - may be part of what it takes to flipping the script.  Amen?

(photo credit: Unsplash)

 Thank you for reading!!!  I appreciate it.

**The book: Sacred Marriage, by Gary Thomas  

Counting the days

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It's really strange.  We're deeply on our way into the month of August and not much gets written on the calendar, these days.  Is this true for you, too?

Do you miss it?  

One thing... unexpected that happened over the summer is my daughter buckle fractured her forearm and has been sporting a pretty pink, heavily marked up cast.   She's been counting the days for it to come off - which will be early on this coming week - Lord Willing!!  She was so grateful it was her left arm and not her right.  Grateful she saw the blessing... 

Our kids are SOOOO sad that summer vacation probably won't be taking place this year!!   They had been dutifully counting down the days for that to happen and well... it's been a little disappointing to say the least.  We're all going to miss that special time visiting friends and family - in VA and NC!!!   We did however get to squeeze in some summer camps and go for a little family get away, locally, to the mountains... which was really, really awesome!!!   Again.  We see the blessing.

Next - we're taking on a new challenge for our family for school this year.

Cyber Schooling has been on our minds... and so - whether we think we are or we're not, we're literally counting down the days for some sort of new-to-us, school schedule to take place.  

We're nervous.  Yet excited!!

I've never been one to easily embrace change.  But - for some reason.  This feels right.  I truly hope and pray that these days will not just be counted down but will be made to count!!

I think often of the verse in Scripture from Proverbs 31:25, which says...

"She is clothed with strength and dignity. She can laugh at the days to come."

Here is my prayer.

Clothe my heart, Oh Lord, with strength and dignity... I'm so afraid of change and facing new challenges... allow me to feel your power, your courage and strength.  To take on and go forward with new experiences.  Help me Lord to take "risks"and to enjoy each new experience... knowing it is a total growing process.  There will be no fear in  my heart!  I can laugh at the days to come.

This prayer has been mine for a while now.  I do thank HIM for changing me in this process.  I am braver.  I'm much more courageous than in times past.  I have grown a lot.  In fact, I say - I don't know that I'm the same person (so much) since the first time I've prayed this prayer.  I'm grateful for the days of all that he has blessed me with.  I am grateful for the ones still to come.  I don't know how many I have.  Neither, do you!

As we're counting the days... may we continue to count the blessings even more.

Re-enter the room!

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My words may seem small this morning but at the same time, they are larger than life to me right now!

Have you ever had a phrase come to mind, that just won't shake?

A couple of weeks ago now - I was off on an errand.  I was by myself and so, of course, plenty of peace and quiet in the car.  A few beautiful moments, for me.

  Although, I will have to say, I pretty much always have the radio playing softly, in the background, when I'm by myself... and, this day was no different.   I have no idea who it was speaking, but someone was being interviewed, and this phrase completely took my breath away.  A tear probably trickled...

"It's time to re-enter the room"

/ˌrēˈen(t)ər/
verb
verb: reenter

enter (something) again 

A verb meaning: to enter again?   In other words.  You've been here once...  It's time to re engage.  

Re engage?  I had to think about this and ask, myself: Where do I need to pause, take a step back and or turn around in order to make a proper reentry?  Ahhh.  Do I truly know what God has called me to?  This question is one that I think a lot of people may have... and maybe never voice.  I don't know.   

So, here I am.  Of course, several categories have quickly come to mind for me to consider...  

First, in areas of home making and the ins and outs of being a wife and mother.  

Secondly, interpersonal relationships and all business aspects.  (Because, as it has been said. "You can do a lot of unimportant things well but that doesn't make it important." Right? Right.) 

And, last but not least (perhaps, this should have been mentioned first)... my prayer life and even in engaging the Holy Spirit for deeper workings in my life.

So, here I stand - at the edge, on the edge, of the threshold.  A crossroad, perhaps.  It's tricky.  I could make myself dizzy thinking about which direction to head first.   But!!! My help does come from Jesus.  The Author and Finisher of my faith. And, it is HIM to whom I will always call upon for my strength and my help in time of need. 

Thank you, for joining me in prayer.

***

PS:  How do you like the photos, I found on my camera?   

Credits to: my amazing kiddos!!!!

How

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Do you ever make lists?  

If you are like me - you'll have a list for the list.  Right?  Check. Check.  And, sometimes I'll add things to the list - things that I have already tended to - just to put a line through it, to call it completed, and it somehow makes me feel more accomplished.  I don't know.  I'm funny, like that. :) 

And another thing I wonder, is this.  Is it the list that is what makes things get "done" or is it the "how-to" inside of us that is what motivates and gets things taken care of?   I often say to my kids - "Don't use or lose that paper - it's got my brain on it."  Meaning... the list is there to keep me from losing track of the busy...going on inside my head - but... that is NOT how things get done.  I've got to have a heart and passion or a motivation behind it all... to tend to things or it will never get done.

I'm not so sure how this will tie in - but I'm currently reading a book entitled, "How to Win Friends and Influence People".  If you haven't read it - you should.  I'm only halfway through it.  We're going through the book, as a team for a book study. It's a powerful look - into my heart for what I need in personal growth: How I relate, how I react, how I behave, how I love, how I serve, etc.

Here is my conclusion.  I can "know how" - all I want, but I have to have a "want to" for how it will get done.   Make sense?

***

Linking up with Five Minute Friday and the word prompt - how:

It really IS a special time!!

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Talk about cultivating relationships - let's start with one way it gets played out at home.  So, this has been (obviously) going on for awhile, now, but... it makes we wonder what "people" think (neighbors, etc.) - and yet, quite frankly, I don't care.  We've been doing this sort of thing since each of our kiddo's first days of school. 

It came to mind the other morning while waiting for the Big Yellow 29 - and I'm out on the porch with my son.  He's twelve.  It was cold.  Like... r e a l l y COLD! outdoors - and I started to do what are something that resembled (ahem!) jumping jacks... just to try to keep warm. And.. this is what I hear.

"Mom! - YOU'RE EMBARRASSING ME!"

Really?!?!!  I laughed a little.  Thinking here he is - here we are.  From day one of school mornings waiting for the bus... either I'm here or it's my hubby.  Sometimes it is both of us.  Often, just one. Mostly, just me.

Here's the thing.  I'm pretty much 100% positive - while it may "LOOK LIKE" an overprotective parent hanging out - watching every little thing... that there are kids looking on from inside the bus - wishing it was their mamma who was the one who just took 5-7 minutes outdoors, with them.

It is really is a special time.

This is when - prayers get prayed.  Hugs are given.  A listening ear is offered. Maybe a verse or two from Scripture is shared.  A song.  A ditty...a laugh.  A simple conversation.  And... even a kiss on the forehead with that one last affirmation getting shared.   

Yes!! It really is a special time.  And... while that time may be fleeting.  I'm still going to be there - as long as I'm able.  I don't know that there are too many others who still choose or who are able to enjoy these types of moments with their growing kids.

I hope my kids will remember, these times.  I truly hope they choose to cherish these memories as much as I do and will.

** These verses from Ephesians 3:17-19, are my prayer - for my three beautiful blessings!

Welcome, to 2020

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A brand new year!  Hard to believe we're more than a week in and yet here we are...my first post for the year.  But, if you're like me... I'm having a hard time getting started, obviously.  I've been wanting to amp up my consistency in blogging but, truth is... I've been lollygagging.  Truth is.  My blog has had to undergo a bit of a "rearrange"... if you haven't noticed?

If you haven't, it's okay.  It's probably time for it to not seem "so busy" and go a bit more streamlined.
All that to say.  I sorely miss my "old look" and yet... I hope I can continue sharing here  - as the good Lord leads - without feeling the loss too much.

***

So, how are all my readers?

If you're new here... I say Welcome!!
Thanks for coming by and sticking around - this long.
To my faithful ones... thank you for truly sticking around - this long. :)

Can we talk about a Word for the Year?!?!

Do you have one?  Have you ever had one?
I have, only in the last couple of years...
with words like Grow or Growth, Strong or Courageous...

But... this year.  I keep thinking or feeling the word:

C U L T I V A T E

What do you think this word entails?

I look forward to sharing more about this word for me - in the next post or two.  Until then... God Bless!

Work at it!

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Have you ever heard these words by Benjamin Franklin - they're said to be famous.  I don't recall hearing them before reading them, to the kids, this morning... but.  Let me tell you - they're about to become quite famous in this household.  I smile.  But, it is true.   These words are  most likely based on Scripture - I'm sure.  Maybe someone can share in the comments where they think they are found.  One verse I thought of is quoted in the photo I shared below.

Here is what Benjamin Franklin pens...

"Work while it is called today, for you know not how much you may be hindered tomorrow.  One today is worth two tomorrows; never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today."

(as discovered in the pages of The Book of Virtues, by William Bennett)

To be honest, Procrastination has been known to take root in this homes heart-soil.  It goes in spurts - the "weed" yanked out... but, by golly, it reappears from time to time!!  And... it, never fear, will get someone in trouble.

Let's just say - it created some lively conversation around the breakfast table, this morning,  as we took this "lesson" in and I simply pray - it will be truly taken to heart by all of us.  There never really is a good excuse.  Ever!! 

Working a home-based business reveals all the true colors.  I have to ask myself,  How hard am I willing to put in, what it takes, to see the harvest that I'm expecting!?!

I also like this scripture from 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NIV)...

Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

Here is another quote by Admiral "Bull" Helsey... from the same book; The Book of Virtues.

"The Lord gave us two ends to use, one to think with and one to sit with.  The "war" depends on which we choose - heads we win, tails we lose."

~~

Have a wonderful and productive week!!

fmf | Stories

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This thought of stories keeps coming to my mind and - you know - you know how a good story will often meet you where you're at... tear at the heart strings and make you really evaluate where you find yourself.  It allows you to step, for a moment, into the shoes of another and walk their road for a bit.  Never mind the unconsciously tightening up of your own shoelaces while you keep walking your own.

Stories do that.

But, as for the uncertainty part, or the unknown, it's real; it's heavy.  I find it truly amazing... how the titles do come later.

As for me.  There has been JOY in the journey.  Trusting the process to the LORD who is authoring the story of our lives.

**

Last evening, my team, had held an info meeting for our home-based business...and there literally were tears in every eye.  As we shared some powerful testimony's ... just to think... how the uncertainty was sooo very real and overwhelming, for these friends whose story we shared, and yet... looking back - they could be confident that the outcome was in God's hands completely, all along.  And now... look where they are?  Life- changing!!  Unbelievable.  Such and act of God to move..

While we "walked along" for a moment... and we have our own stories to share... we are grateful.  Grateful to God for authoring that story.  And.. for sustaining us all through the unknown.

Question is. 

Are you willing to be part of your own story?  Meaning: Owning your life... yet, trusting God, the author and the finisher of our/your faith to pen the details.

It's a captivating place.

***

I chose to follow along with Five Minute Friday link up, today.  Thanks for reading!!

Courage has a face!

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This thing called Courage continues to roll around in my heart and mind.  I keep hearing the voices of - "Will you just do it already?"... okay, okay, I croak back - my voice is so barely audible.  

Today, someone encouraged me!!  If the LORD is saying... you should try it again, then, take courage!!

Take it by the hand and let it lead you!!  

These words, from my dear friend, Annie Wiebe, bless me, every time I read her thoughts on Courage.  I asked her permission to share, what she wrote.

***

It takes courage.

It takes courage to be different.

It takes courage to act and not just dream.

It takes courage to work.

It takes courage to say no to distractions.

It takes courage to live the life you want.

It takes courage to keep going when pain sets in.

It takes courage to be strong.

It takes courage to change.

It takes courage to do the things you said you'd do.

It takes courage to accept the critics and keep doing the work.

It takes courage to do something you’ve never done.

You see, we can all do what we’ve always done. That’s easy. Doing something totally different takes courage because there is a high chance it won’t work out in the beginning. 

Courage is part of everything — even the simple stuff you think doesn’t matter.

You deserve to be courageous!!!

Courage is a free ticket that costs nothing financially and costs everything personally.

Courage is putting it all on the line because you believe that you deserve to have the life you want.

All anything you want starts with, is a wee bit of courage. Wake up with courage, act with courage, eat courage for lunch, use courage when you’re unsure, hide courage in your pocket, pull courage out when people stab you in the back, and most of all: keep going, by using courage.

Courage is the answer. Courage can help you no matter where you’re starting from or how far you’ve fallen from the top.

Everything starts with courage. 

So, I'm asking you... Do you have courage?

Courage has a face!  It's a brave one!!
***

A brave-faced photo from my youngest's
8th birthday party, back- end of summer!!

Kindness really matters!

Oh my word.  I don't blame a single soul for falling off "my bandwagon" - here at Treasured Up and Pondered.  In fact, if you are reading this... I'm impressed.  Because, I've fallen off... as well.  Obviously.

So, for that... dear friend and reader...I say, if you're here and still "desiring to hear" anything from me - I say THANK YOU!   Yes, thank you for your kindness.... and your patience ... and your prayers.   Please feel my {hugs} and see my smiles...

Truth is.  Our plates are full.   I don't like to say we've been busy - because everyone is and can be "busy". Instead of busy I'll refer to it as - we've been "investing" ourselves into lots of different areas...

We're wrapping up the school year, with the kiddos, in just a few more short weeks.   My husband has also recently finished up a 15-month stent on taking up some Theological studies... he graduates, here, in early June.  His desire in this course has been for himself to grow - as a husband, a father, a leader, a friend; a way to better connect all the dots.  I think he's really grateful and blessed to have gone through this course.  I'm glad he did it and stuck to it.

Our home-based business continues to keep us on our toes... with its highs and lows.  All is fine!!  We continue to learn; grow ourselves as better individuals and leaders...we still LOVE what we do and what it is all about and why.  It's been life-changing, for us!!
We're always willing to share with others - a better way!!  Health and happiness is everyone's hope!!!

Church life is full of changes and challenges.  There are lots of things to be a part of...and areas to serve and mature in.   We don't live super close to our church, anymore - so there is that distance factor that plays a part in how much we can logistically be involved.  We're so grateful to have a wonderful church family...who understands and still encourages us! 
Something to keep in mind.  It really does matter how much you offer in as to what you you'll receive out of church.  There is no perfect situation.... BUT GOD!!! 

One of our most recent endeavors has been the invite to join a family/friends, of ours, in Revolutionary War reenactments.   This is mostly on account of our 11 yr old son.  His passion is beautiful combo of history and music.  So his role, in this "new hobby of ours" is an acting hornist for this particular regime; while the rest of us consider ourselves as camp followers or sutlers.    Doing this as a family allows us all to be involved; all going the same direction - with activities and such.   So far it has been a process; keeping to authenticity is very vital.  I really appreciate learning and understanding all of this.  It really has been fascinating.    How do I mean?    I've been helping to do the sewing for a lot of our 18th century garb.  Any visible seam needs to be hand-sown.  But, not only that... the cloth needs to be 100% wool or linen or cotton.  Only certain colors are of the time period...
So, there are lots of things to learn and lots of events to participate in - and new and interesting people to get to know.   ** I realize, I really should do some posts, with photos, on these, in effort to better preserve our memories - that we've been making as a family.

What else?

Of course - we're gearing up for summer and all its activities. Hoping for a couple of trips... one business related the other a family vacation.
We're also honing in on a few lingering house projects.... such as settling our side flower bed, putting up a washline (I cannot believe I've gone this long with out one! - kinda driving me cray-cray!!) and hopefully getting an outbuilding shed type thingy.   I'm sure there is a longer list...

My hubby and I just celebrated our 14th Wedding Anniversary!!  Yay!!!   Looking forward to forever...

Our son - is getting soooooo tall.  AND, his voice is deepening every. single. day.   It's so crazy how fast they change.  Caught in that place of wanting to still play with matchbox cars and nerf guns while busting out of shoes and his clothes - like a young man, should!!
Oh - and our two girls (ages 10 and 7) both donated 12" of hair.  Their first time of EVER getting their hair cut... even trimmed.  So, of course, the gal probably took a total of 14", till it was all said and done....
I was proud of them.  Of course, this mama shed a tear ever so slightly.  I thought I'd tear up more.  I am sure it was because we talked about long and hard enough to finally just "do it".   Right?   They still have pretty long hair and could almost go for a "round-two" already... but, they don't want it any shorter, at this point. 

***
 Why all this ramble?   I have no idea -- other than, I just needed to get it all out there - as a way to play catch up. Get my fingers back to the keyboard.  I've really missed it.   This quiet, reflective space...   

I will say.  I was having a chat with my 10 year old, this morning.  She "unloaded" it all... the tears were flowing and I was holding her and listening.  The things she shared were real, and raw; things I could easily relate to - as I've been there myself, many times.     One of things I shared, with her,  in return, is that as you grow into a young woman - you will find that this may happen again - over and over and over again!   Relationships and friendships will come and go.  Being kind through them all speaks volumes.  But, yes!  There is what feels like a footprint left on your heart.  Sometimes it hurts.  Sometimes it really leaves an impression.  Sometimes that is all that it is... but sometimes... its meant to be blessing!!!

May someone's kindness towards you - leave an impression - today!!   How about you - for someone else...okay?  It really matters.  I pray my daughter shines like the sun, today!!!

fmf | place (what if...)

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I realize this favorite phrase of mine - is also a place where many of us dwell but not to many take the leap from.   Would you ponder this with me, today?  What if...

What if...You didn't always have to feel that sickness come on for that oh-so long and oh-so often amount of time?

What if... YOU were the one to feel stronger, feel better and able to smile again?

What if...you prayed and this was your answer?

What if...you could dream again?   This time, BIGGER!!

What if...you thought you were to go here or there and do this or that...but instead, THIS!  This is your place and you fit!!

What if...you decide instead that you are totally worth it - not your things or your stuff... but YOU!

Listen, friend.  I want to tell you something.

All of these  things used to be my "what if's" and now they are my reality.  What if the change you see in me -- could be the change you see in you?

I offer #hope!  A #solution.  There is so much potential.

There is a time and a place to pay attention.

***

Joining with the Five Minute Friday community and taking on the prompt word: Place  

Thank you for reading!

fmf | search

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Someone near and dear to me (and, I won't mention names) is on a quest...to actually hear GOD's voice.  They're discouraged and sad that it so far isn't or hasn't been an audible voice for them.  Whenever, we get to connect about it - we try to encourage but with futile words, because even ours won't readily be heard.  We say - "Sometimes, you have to be still (quiet!) and then you will know - God." (Psalm 46:10)

We remind.  "Look at answers, to prayers, you do have - though they've come circumstantially... - they're still answers."

Apparently, that isn't an audible voice; its not enough!

God's voice isn't always clear, is it?  We have his WORD, right, and, we need to pray and ask to have the eyes of our heart, opened, to see clearly.  I talk with my kiddo's quite often (in fact, AGAIN just this morning!) - about the fact that they need to look at me when I am talking to them.  That they will be able to hear me better when they keep their eyes fixed on my face.   Surprise!!!!!

Imagine - the connection that would happen!!!

Jeremiah 29:13

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all of your heart. 

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Joining with the Five Minute Friday Community today - today's word prompt is: search

fmf | Build

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This prompt word is very interesting.  The other day - my son was working through an assignment for school and it involved a mathematical situation.  The only way to really have him "get it" was to imagine building a house.  We used this analogy and it didn't take him long to get this math problem figured out - correctly. When he saw the way it was originally "figured"... he could truly see the error and KNEW this figurative building wasn't going to work...as it was.

Do we really know what we're working with when we go to build - anything?  Relationships.  A home! Getting a business up off the ground and running.

There is something to be said - in going back and taking a second look as to what you have before you.  Is it a right fit?  Is it coming together - as expected?  Are the others in your "one-anothering" feeling the same connectiveness and commonalities that you feel about them? 
If not.  What needs to change?
When we say we want to "build" something. 
The groundwork being laid - needs to be solid and sure.

You may have heard the phrase... Don't throw your pearls before swine.  Well, what in the world does that even mean?  Right?  Pearls are something of great value.  Swine or a herd of pigs - don't typically care about such things of value. They would, by nature, trample them underfoot and move on.

I've been pondering... about how it looks to or what it means to add value to others.  I want to build a happy and health home (Proverbs 14:1, Proverbs 24:3-4).  My Marriage matters...
Apart from Christ... homes and marriages can falter.   Building up an emergency fund or even our simple bank accounts takes diligence and sometimes sacrifice.   A business will only built if its foundation is secure.  Dreams are great!  But...aren't they only "fluff" without the sweat, grit and tears.

Sometimes.  Building relationships means a simple investment...of time and thoughtfulness.  Maybe MORE than what has already been given.  It may mean more hugs.  A correction.  A listening ear.  A deeper/fuller smile.  A serious question...
Time... putting aside the "me and my wants" for the other.

Something to think about today.

Here is a playdough house that one of my kiddos' made along time ago.  Got love the heart inside the house.

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Joining with the Five Minute Friday - Writing Community.  This word prompt is: Build

Beware of your Influence

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This apple looks pretty impressive, doesn't it? Granted... the photo of this (currently) nice looking apple is apple number two... and thankfully it WAS okay on the inside.   Imagine my surprise when cutting open, my original apple, one morning, while preparing my kiddo's school lunches.  It was rotten!!  Rotten to the core. 

I was so glad I grabbed a photo...of it, just for this topic today.

 Beware of your influence!! 

An interesting title I'm sure... and one that can be taken both ways.  Who are we influenced by and who are we influencing?  Its tempting to look good on the outside and perhaps it can be done for awhile... but, we all know what is on the inside is what eventually comes out.   It wasn't going to take long for this said "good" apple to present its true ugliness of heart.  I honestly thought it was going to be an AMAZING, crunchy, good and sweet treat for my kiddos.  Again, I'm glad the second one was!!  I will also admit here...I wasn't so trusting of the second apple.  I was "SURE" that it, too, would show up to be a bad apple... isn't that what happens?  It only takes one to ruin the whole basket?     I don't know about you... but this gave me pause.

How am I as a Woman of Influence?

(that is a big deal!)

And, WHO are my Influencers?     
(which is an even greater BIG deal!!)

There are so many analogies and things that could be read between the lines in this post, today, but I'll leave that up to you.  I only trust I am making you think.  Be aware...
Influence is a real thing.

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.  ~ Matthew 5:16, ESV

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Joining up with Five Minute Friday - writing community (from last Friday!) - when the prompt word was: influence.

fmf | with

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Emmanuel - God with us!

I may have shared this thought here before but it bears repeating... 

"When you're not with someone - you're at them."

Jesus alludes to this in Scripture... (I'll have to go look it up again) but, how true!  Right?  Christmas is here -- and while a wonderful time of year, it also can be quite stressful.  I know, our home - has felt that. Let me be a bit vulnerable here and share... the stress of schedules, studying for tests, work related issues, meal prep and all the other household things that need tending to can really play a toll.  One of our biggest stressers gets revealed when early mornings come and we're getting the kids up and at em - for school.  There are distractions by books and papers, toys and even each other.  If we get up "too late"... then that puts on the crunch for everything.  And, you've got one - who doesn't know what to wear, the other who is "so cozy"...and, "can't get up!!"...  "can't find my shoes"... and because of feeling the pressure... the clock ticking FAST... panic sets in.   And, Mamma... well, Mamma's voice isn't so quiet anymore.

Right??  All the things.   

So, recently... I was thinking about this.  Why do we have this kind of tipping-point stress in our lives? I do believe it comes down to the whole thing of not being WITH people (our hearts are not united) and so we're AT each other.  When and where we're at each other "throats"... loud.  Hurtful.  Always "picking a fight", trying to better ourselves - one-upping another instead of building each other up...

This is why Jesus came.  To unite our hearts.  To beat as one.  TO CONNECT.  Built together to keep each other strong.   These fence posts do no good all piled up on one another.  But... unless they're positioned in, with and for each other... does it make an impact.

We've been working on.  Whispers.  Warm hugs.  Well-wishes.  Being amazed... and encouraging each other instead of critiquing, complaining and conjuring up "trouble".

I have to tell you.  This morning!  I was joking with my kiddos... that it MUST be that Christmas is coming, or something!!!!   I mean, it felt like such a gift.   EVERYONE... was up... on their own.  Got dressed...on their own. Hair done and combed...on their own.  EARLY - before time.  ALL was quiet and calm - working together - as if they were excited about their half-day, last day before Christmas vacation begins.

Jesus was WITH us!  

He still is, and always will be!!

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Joining with Five Minute Friday... a community of writers, taking a word prompt and sharing their thoughts.  Today's prompt was: With

going somewhere

 Found these footsie photos on my camera/phone.   I cannot deny - these feet are my daughter's.  :)

 She got me to thinking... about me, as a youngster, growing up.  And, to this day... I love my bare feet... to be read... I don't like wearing shoes.  But...as a young gal, my issue was occasionally stubbing a toe - as I would be running or walking down the road.  I specifically remember, one time, stubbing my toe extremely hard on the macadam.  OUCHie!!  And, oh the blood... it is a wonder I have that fifth toe still on my foot.  

Probably more than that were the times I would sprain or overturn my ankles, as I'd run across the yard.  Oh, I would have such a horrible time with that.  One time, so that I had no excuse and still had to go to school.. my dad made a "homemade" single crutch, for me, to use - which I was "so embarrassed" by.  I hated that thing!!  I remember taking it to school but refusing to use it... so I hid it in the corner of our classroom.  I'm not sure why I'm telling you all that, other then... I ask.  Why do we "refuse" help?  Especially, when it is being offered.  People looking on - know it is of our best interest that we take the help they offer. 

Oh, and then there was the time  - I KNOW I broke my toe - possibly even two of them, on the same foot.  There is nothing to be done, really, about broken toes... but... to realize... time will heal.  And... we keep moving on, right?

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Many of you remember, that my word for this year - is Grow or Growth!!

Well... let me tell you.  That has been happening.  I'm so grateful, for it, too!!   One of the books I've been reading is by a man I heard speak for the first time, back in the summer - though, he's been around for like "forever"... is John C. Maxwell.   I fell in love with his teaching style... and wow!!  Because, of that... I'm soaking up his books.  As many as I can.    The one I'm currently reading is: 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth.

Amazing!!  I'm currently in a book study with several others and we're going through this book.  You should see my copy... totally underlined and highlighted.  It's dog-eared and notes written in on the side lines.  It's been a perfect book for me to read.  I needed it.

One illustration, John, shared in this book - encourages me soooo much!!  

Found on page 131... He writes.... Inventor Charles F. Kettering, who was the head of research at General Motors, said, "You will never stub your toe standing still.  The faster you go, the more chance there is of stubbing your toe, but the more chance you have of getting somewhere."

John continues...In other words, where there is no struggle, there is no progress or gain.. facing difficulties is inevitable - but learning from them is optional.

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In owning my own business... I have had some serious bumps in the road, in the past.   I have stubbed my "toe(s)" from time to time.  Which, in reality, is very encouraging.  And, I will have more "stubbed toes" in the future.   A stubbed toe - brings out all the feelings, doesn't it?  There is this temptation to give up - and hobble off the course.  However, when kept in perspective... the reality is - we've been going somewhere.  Presumably, forward!!!  And, THAT is what is truly important.  TO KEEP ON KEEPING ON!!

You don't get anywhere sitting on the sidelines - cheering everyone else along, now do you?

In my job, I am referred to as an Ambassador.  (The same applies, in that I'm a Christian - an Ambassador for Christ!)  What does an Ambassador do?

Well... they tell.  They bring good news!  They share - all the amazing things they know and have come to learn and understand.  They represent...

I like how this verse in Romans 10:15b says... 

 "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news."

You may get tired so rest, if you must, but never, ever quit.

**

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD and KEEP GOING!!!  However....

I am going to share one word of caution.  You can't walk the road alone.  For he that travels by himself - is going too fast!!   We need each other!!  Be sure - your "buddy" is with you - as you go!!!

I hope I've been a blessing here to someone today!!!

fmf | potential

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I'm sitting here today with a steamy cup of hot coffee or is it tea?  I've had both by now.  Calendars lie open in front  of me.  My plans for the day have all turned upside down.  The rest of the weekend is looking to do the same.  And, on into next week.

What do you do when plans fail to succeed?   Are plans always set in stone?  We set this date and that.  We cross our fingers and hope for the best.  We pray for "traveling mercies" and then it all falls through.  Thank God, for white-out!  Right?

Truth is.  We never know.  We can hope and assume the best.  But potential is where its at.

Scripture talks of this.

The heart of man plans his way,

    but the Lord establishes his steps.  ~ Proverbs 16:9 ESV

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Oh, by the way.   Since I'm a fan of both White Chocolate and Coconut... these cookies are supposedly to be the best!!!  We'll see, as I'm about to taste.  

 I planned on making them today...based off of what they looked like, on a photo.  LOL.  :)  Okay.  Verdict!!  Totally, flat as a pancake... not near the same caliber.   Nonetheless.  Potential is where it stands.  {bites..}  Yup!!!
They've got it.   Gheez... they're good!!!

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Joining today with Five Minute Friday Community.  Today's one word prompt is: potential

fmf | crowd always follows

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It doesn't matter where we go - a crowd always follows.  

Personally, this "happenstance" has never crossed my mind enough to notice - until my hubby (repeatedly) makes mention and now even the kids will say something.   So, for instance... pulling into an empty parking lot...by the time we leave...its full!!  Pull up to any drive-through window... the cars follow.   The restaurant is quiet...and before you know it... its loud and bustling.  Albeit all to say... I know many times, more than we realize, we too are part of any given crowd that follows. It is NOT because we are special, or, of great importance that we notice these crowds, however, it's just become a funny!!  Birds of a feather flock together.  Did you know, though... you can be in the largest crowd and feel the most alone you have ever felt?  I have.

I had to think of crowds and how, in general, I take to them.   I think it depends on what it is...and where.  But... there are days... when a crowded grocery store is NOT where I want to be.  However, a good crowd gathered to fellowship, celebrate or cheer someone on... is so exciting!  Do - I like to be in the center of that crowd or on the fringe?  Oh, I like to say - the more the merrier...but do I really like it?  I'll leave you to wonder that one. 

 One thing I know to be true.  When God's Word says, Where two or three are gathered in my name - there I am, in the midst of them. ~ Matthew 18:20... well, now I'm all over that.

Maybe it is community I'd rather be part of instead of a crowd.  

Do you recognize the difference?  I'd love to hear your thoughts.

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Joining with Five Minute Friday Community and today's prompt word is: crowd

fmf | feel the rain

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Some people feel the rain - others just get wet!

A couple of years ago - I can recall...outdoors planting some "gifted" plants and wanted to get them in the ground before it rained.  You know how things "grow"...?  Better to set in wet soil than in dry....however, a good soaking rain (after planting) is especially good!!!
My girlies were out there with me - and before I knew it, here it came.  A gentle but steady - WET - rain.  Getting rather intense, actually.  My first thought was to race indoors and call the girls behind me.  Nope!!

They were having fun!!  Twirling and laughing.  Soaking it all up.  The blessing of feeling the rain - and not just getting wet.   I, on the other hand,   had to really think about that.  As much as I love me a rainy day (and I talk about that often) my first and immediate inclination is to run in and get out of the rain.   I don't know that I've slowed ever down long enough to really feel it.   Maybe I have.  I'm getting better.  At least, I hope so.

You know.  Troubles - they fall like rain...we say.   Why are we in such a hurry to get out of the rain?  Why are we in such a hurry to get out of the troubles - that come?  Blessings also fall like rain - we like to say!
Yet, we're willing to bask in those?   I don't know. 
I'm pondering all of this today... how about you?  Are you a person who just gets wet or do you like feeling the rain?


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Joining up with Five Minute Friday community where today's word prompt is: