You are treasured!

I read this post last week, and as a mom of a boy, I cheered. Thank God there are families in this world teaching good moral character. They are taking a stand and saying this is what we believe, this is what we are looking for and we will not put up with anything less.

... and... as a mom of a girl, I wanted to cry. What are we teaching our girls? Are we telling them how wonderful they are because of who they are in Christ? Do they know there are boys who are looking for good, nice, modest girls? Do they understand that not all attention is good attention?

I have seen some questionable pictures and frightening comments. I wish I could talk with each of these girls...

"Do you know how special you are? God created you just the way you are. He knit you together just the way He wanted. You are His masterpiece. He has a wonderful plan for you and your life. I know that life is hard sometimes. Not everyone is going to like you all the time and that is ok. Sometimes it is more important to stand apart from the crowd than it is to blend in. There are people who will love you for who you are, and you won't need to compromise your morals for them."

I can't speak with each of them, so I created art instead.

You are precious.
You are beautiful.
You are adored.
You are a masterpiece.
You are royalty.
You are victorious.
You are free.
You are treasured.
You are His.

They will be available with different girls and customized with names.

I would love to hear your thoughts!

*** they are up on my etsy shop now *** order yours today ***

What's next?

I was thinking about my blog title this morning. Mismatched, socks, burnt toast and Jesus. I know it was a gift from God. A title He gave me a few years ago, when I first started blogging.

There are three parts to my silly title.

First, the mismatched socks. One day, my daughter completely ran out of socks. I was doing laundry on a regular basis, so how could she be out? I decided to start sock-hunting while she was at school. I was shocked and appalled to find 27 socks stashed around her room- tucked into every corner, left under the bed, in the closet- socks everywhere! I remember calling my friend Gidget in order to get some moral support with my latest child-rearing issue and her response was, "Why does she have so many socks?"  I can laugh now, but at the time I was irritated by the whole thing!

Second, the burnt toast. We have this awful toaster that does not work! The bread either comes out lukewarm or burnt beyond recognition. At the time I named the blog, it was a brand-new toaster and a gift, so we just dealt with it's inadequacy and the game it provided each morning... what kind of toast are we having today?

Finally, Jesus. Through it all, He has been there. My calm in the storm. My sanity. My hope. My wisdom. My voice of reason. He has carried me on the days I couldn't find my way. I am grateful. Because of Him, I am able to look at these situations and laugh.

I love that our God has a sense of humor. This morning He and I laughed about the blog title and the fact that I can no longer eat toast.

In December of 2012, I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Gluten Intolerance. Experts may argue which came first, sort of like the chicken and the egg, it doesn't really matter to me, I have both and my life has changed because of it. No more toast for me!

So, I asked Him, "What is next? Should I change the name of the blog, since it no longer fits?"

To be honest, I'm not sure. Perhaps it is His reminder to me that His ways are higher than our ways and thoughts. Instead of trying to figure Him out, I just need to enjoy spending time with Him and experiencing the blessing of today. I know He has a plan for me and it is good, and my human brain is not able to see all of my life at once. I only need to trust Him moment by moment, knowing He is with me and watching and helping.



What is God teaching you today? I would love to hear from you.

Checking in!

Hi everyone! It has been a busy month, sorry I haven't been around much. I think of you often and I have been busy! I am taking an online art class and I am working around the house painting, refinishing furniture and sewing!

How many shopping days left?

I sat in the crowded waiting room and checked my list for the second time in an hour. It was the end of November and I already felt behind and overwhelmed by the Christmas list before me.

I needed more ideas for my kids. What could I possibly get for them that they didn't already have? Deep in thought, I overheard one of the moms say "our kids only get three gifts each. If it was good enough for baby Jesus its good enough for us." A wave of peace swept through my spirit.

I soon left the waiting room, but I couldn't let go of her statement. Could it really be that simple? Why not? That year our kids received three thoughtful gifts and there wasn't one complaint. 

That was four years ago and we haven't changed that tradition. Apparently we aren't the only family to switch to this philosophy. Two years ago I read an article about another family doing the same thing. Each of their gifts were based on the original gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 

I did a little research, and our gift philosophy developed further!

Doing a quick Google search will allow you to read about the significance and history of each gift.


So now, we have:
Gold, a big gift
Frankincense, something for the spirit 
Myrrh, something for the body


This has simplified our gift giving and it has also been fun to think about what gift could fit in each category.


I also have more time to focus on the real reason for Christmas.


What do you think?


I would love to hear from you and some of the traditions you have. 

Be Still

"Momma, I can't sleep." It was his third visit to my reading chair since I put him to bed a minute ago. "Let's go," I said. I stood and ushered him back to his room.

"Be still," they were the only words I spoke as I re-tucked blankets and re-rubbed his back.

Sitting in the silence of his room, my worries from the day came quicker than his sleep.



Isn't that what my Father says too?

“Be still, and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10a

Always so much easier to say than do.


He is God, able to do abundantly more than I can ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20) and yet there are days I am captive to my thoughts and doubts. There are days I am unable to accomplish anything because everything is too big.

Why can't I just be still for a moment and turn to Him, the One who can?

Why won't I surrender and say "it is not through my power, but through Your's"?

Why don't I know that He is God?

Be still and know.

Father God, thank you for reminding me you are always with me. Please teach me to be still and remember that you are in control. Help me to know that you are abundantly able to do all things. In Jesus Precious Name, Amen.

God loves a Cheerful Giver

Christmas is officially over in our home. All of the presents have arrived and have been opened. I woke yesterday morning to a home cluttered from one end to the other. Toys, boxes, wrapping paper, gift bags and packing material were strewn throughout the kitchen and living room. My kids rooms were heaped with their Christmas bounty. Now the fun part I thought, trying to find homes for all of the new toys. We have cut back in the last couple of years. Each of us only receives three gifts. "If it was good enough for baby Jesus, then it is good enough for you," has been our traditional mantra. But, those three gifts do not include the gifts from our extended family. We have been blessed by generous givers. I am grateful for all that we have received, but I can't help to think about the families who are not as "blessed."

Back in October, I sat down with my journal, inspired by a book I had just read. The writer encouraged me to make a list of my dreams for the next ten years. Please note, I said dreams, not goals. Dreaming, involves thinking big! Without being concerned about time, money or education, what are your dreams? One of mine was to sponsor two children through Compassion International. As a stay at home mom, this was a big dream. I have been wanting to (and felt called to) do this for so long, but my lack of faith in God's provision, and selfishness, kept me from making the commitment. As I sat there looking at my list, I re-read each of the dreams, the Holy Spirit began nudging me. "Trust in the Lord." "Have faith."

About six months ago, I started watching my niece a couple of days each week. The extra money was nice, I was saving and tithing and then spending the rest on myself. I felt like God was encouraging me to give more and I quickly agreed. I felt that helping two other children would be a better use of my money than buying another pair of unnecessary shoes for myself.

I am not sharing this story because I want everyone to know what I am doing, I am sharing this story because of the blessings we have received since sponsoring Swando and Sheva. I encouraged my kids to  get involved from the beginning. My little man, picked a boy only three days younger than himself. My daughter picked a little girl who shares the same birth-month. Both children happen to be from Indonesia. We read about each child and spent time choosing the child that seemed to "feel right" for my kids. We talked about the homes and environments the children live in. We talked about their families and the jobs that the children are expected to perform. I explained to my kids that I would sponsor the children monetarily, but it would be their responsibility to correspond and pray for their child. The praying started that evening. My son prayed for food and fresh drinking water, my daughter prayed for safety and that her child would be able to attend school (she wasn't).

Swando

Sheva

About two weeks after sponsoring the children, my son received a packet that included a picture, and information about his child. My daughter did not receive hers. After waiting patiently, I eventually called and discovered there had been a mix-up with my daughters child, they assured me that the packet would be sent immediately. We waited another two weeks for the packet. During that time, my son received his first letter from Sheva. The letter gave us all of his personal information, such as who lives in his home, his favorite food, his favorite Bible story (David & Goliath, the same as my son) and also specific prayer requests. We were thrilled to know more about him and to have a personal connection.

Last week as we were getting ready for the holiday, I asked my children to clean their rooms. The whining, tears and drama started immediately. I sent both of them to their rooms, so that I could compose myself rather than lose my "cool". After a short time-out for me, and them, I called them to the couch for a little discussion. "What do you think Swando and Sheva are doing today"? They looked at me blankly. I continued, "well, I know what they are not doing.""They are not cleaning their rooms." The families in the underprivileged parts of Indonesia often live in cardboard houses with tin roofs. My children knew this. We continued our discussion about the kinds of toys that Swando and Sheva have and the jobs they are expected to complete, not for payment, but for their families' well being. I wanted them to realize that we are blessed to be living where we do and that it is not a punishment to clean their rooms, it is a privilege. The kids went to clean.


From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. -Luke 12:48b

I am thankful that God has given me the responsibility of raising and teaching my children. I am thankful that God gave us the resources to sponsor Swando and Sheva and for opening our eyes to people other than ourselves.

Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. - James 1:27 (NLT) (emphasis mine)

I refuse to believe that sponsoring these children won't make a difference. My kids and I are proof that it does. 

"The religious leaders hated Jesus because he broke the rules in order to help people and refused to condemn anyone for anything other than being unloving." - Alice Smith

On Christmas Eve I went out to get the mail before leaving for church. As I came into the house, I handed my daughter an envelope. "Merry Christmas," I said. "Is it from Swando," she asked excitedly. It was her first letter, an introduction, including her favorite foods, her parents names and favorite Bible story (also David and Goliath). On the back, was a special note and prayer requests. "Please pray for my upcoming exam, that I will do well." "She's in school?" My daughter could not contain her excitement or tears of joy for someone other than herself.

Thank you Lord for blessing us. Thank you for your provision and grace. Thank you for opening our eyes to your world. Please continue to teach me and our family how to give and love. Help us to see the world as you see it. Help us to love everyone as you love them. Help us to give with a cheerful heart, out of the abundance that you have already given us. In the precious name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.

My Experience as a Lotion Lady

I got to wash feet last night. (Jesus washes the disciples feet, John 13)

Ok, not really, but that is what I first thought of when our church put out the request for "Lotion Ladies". During the large shows at Christmas and at Easter, our church, stations ladies in the Women's bathroom. The sole purpose and responsibility of these ladies is to dispense lotion to women as they leave the bathroom.

I will admit it sounds slightly shady and maybe a little creepy to hang out in the bathroom all night waiting for visitors. However, I was eager to help. Last year at Christmas, I experienced the Lotion Ladies for the first time. As I was leaving the bathroom, a nice woman close to my mom's age offered me some lotion. Really for me? I thought to myself. It was nice smelly lotion from Bath and Body Works. Of course, I would love some lotion! My mom, sister and I left the bathroom, with our spiritual cups filled a little more. It was a simple gesture, but one that left a large impression.

So, when the request for help came this time, I was happy to participate. I contacted the coordinator of the Lotion Ladies, and then doubt set in. I started re-thinking my hasty offer to volunteer. It had been great to receive the lotion, but what if giving wasn't quite as great. Previous work with the public has left a bitter taste in my mouth. Some people can be quite .... u-hem ... unpleasant. And then, what about the perfume ladies at the mall? I will be honest, when I see them, I run in the opposite direction. But, for the moment, I set my fears aside.

Last night, filled with apprehension, I went and checked myself through security to get to the place where I would be stationed for the evening. I walked into the bathroom and quickly found my spot. Waiting for me between the exit door and the sinks, was a stool and three bottles of lotion. One was unscented and two were the wonderful smelly lotion from Bath and Body Works. I got settled on my stool and waited.

The first woman came into the bathroom and I felt weird! Where do I look? I can't watch her walk into a stall! Don't make eye contact yet. Ugh, what was I thinking? She came out and I smiled. I wasn't really sure what to say. Ugh, this is uncomfortable. She finished washing her hands and I meekly asked if she would like some lotion. Her face lit up! "Really?" She asked, shocked and pleased. She accepted, said thank you and left.

After that first awkward encounter, the evening improved. With each pump of the lotion, I felt a little more comfortable. I began joking with the ladies, welcoming them to our church and sending wishes to "enjoy the show".

There were so many different reactions. Some were eager. Some were shocked. Some were embarrassed. Some declined. Many were grateful, "I needed lotion, thank you."

As women offered their cupped hands towards me, I really began looking. There were so many beautiful hands. New ones and old ones. Long fingers and short. Pretty painted nails and short ones that had seen hard work. Each of those hands were filled with stories and so much love.

Jesus loves you. Do you know how much? I never said it. But I prayed it several times as I was pumping lotion. He does love each of us without measure. I hope that some of the women and girls got the message last night. Not because of the lotion, but because of the great Christmas story that they experienced, first hand, at the show. Jesus is truly the best gift we could ever receive and it is even better when we give Him to others.

At the end of my post, I left the bathroom, my spiritual cup overflowing.

Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. John 1:16

Father, thank you for your abundant gifts. Thank you for your grace that I cannot earn on my own. Thank you for your mercy when I deserve punishment. Thank you for the ultimate gift of your son, Jesus. Lord, I do not know all of the women who have touched my life. But, you know each of them by name. Please call each of them into a deeper relationship with you. Please bless them abundantly and fill them with your love. I love you for calling me and filling me so that I can freely give to others. Please open my eyes to the people in my life that might need more of your love and enable me to love them. Amen.

I don't know anything

What do you know? You don't have the credentials for this. You have never been to school for this kind of thing. I know all of your weaknesses, who do you think you are fooling? How can you tell people this stuff when you are so far from perfect?

These are all things that I heard this week. Earlier, I mentioned the quiet whisper of God and I realized that there is another small voice that I often hear. However, these things are not supportive, encouraging or loving. They are destructive, debilitating and crushing.

Throughout our lives, we hear many different voices talking to us. Parents, grandparents, teachers, friends, spouses, bosses, the media, the enemy. While most of these voices mean well, they may (or do) tell us things that are hurtful.

It is so easy to hear things and accept them as truth.

Now that I think about it, the things above are true. I don't have the credentials to write this blog. I don't have the education to interpret the things of God. I am not good enough on my own to direct people down the path of Jesus.

Don't listen to me... What do I know?

Looking back over my previous posts, I am the one who needed to hear these things the most. These are the things that God was speaking to me. These are the lessons that I needed (and still need) to learn.

So, what do I do with those bad whispers?

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! Deuteronomy 30:19 (NLT)

I have a choice to make. 

I can quit writing. I can go back to my shelter, where my life was hidden. I can stop sharing my story, my struggle, my experience. I lived there for a long time. It was comfortable and it is not that far from here.

Or.

I can continue down this unknown path. Through my lack of education, I can continue to share. I can tell you about my ups and my downs. Perhaps they will help you, perhaps they are only helping me.

Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. Deuteronomy 8:2

I know that God is leading me. There are things that I have written that I know did not come from me. He has placed things on my heart and at times I feel I will burst if I don't write them down and share. I pray every time, before I write a word. Please God, let these be your words and not mine.

Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.  It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Today, dear friends I am boasting in the Lord. It is Him and not me! I am foolish, weak and lowly. He is all knowing and all loving. These are things I will never be. But, I will choose to be obedient!

Lord, I thank you for being good all the time. Thank you for always knowing what is best for me. I am nothing without you. Thank you for teaching me, for encouraging me and for leading me. I seek to serve you as Jesus served. I love you and I give you all that I am, even in my weakness. Amen.

A Test

I heard this several times last week and it has really stuck with me. To me, it is really the same question asked different ways.

You get to go to heaven. It is everything you ever imagined and more. Everyone you know/knew and love is there. You want for nothing. But, Christ is not there. Would you still go? Would you want to stay?

You are a modern day Job. You lose everything and everyone that is important to you. But, you still have Jesus. Is He enough? Do you still lift your hands in praise?