Mom's Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

1 tbs. olive oil

3 celery ribs with green tops, thinly sliced

2 carrots, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced

1/4 cup coarsely chopped onion

1 (49-ounce) can reduced-sodium chicken broth

8 ounces chicken tenders, cut into 1-inch pieces

4 ounces (about 3 cups) wide egg noodles

2 tbs. finely chopped fresh parsley (or substitute dried parsley)

2 tsp. finely chopped fresh thyme (or substitute 1/2 tsp. dried thyme)

1/4 tsp. pepper, to taste

salt to taste

Directions:

Heat the oil in large pot over medium-high heat. Add celery, carrots, and onion; cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 minutes or until the carrots are crisp tender and the onion is translucent but not browned.

Stir in the chicken broth. Cover and increase the heat to high. When the broth comes to a boil, stir in the remaining ingredients, except the salt. When the liquid returns to a boil, reduce the heat to medium; cover and cook for 8 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the noodles are tender. Season with salt.

Makes 4 servings (8 cups)

Enjoy this soup as the weather gets colder! November is a great month to share recipes when we are planning to make our favorites for the Holiday's. Be sure to have yours included!

Treasures

My son, Sean, has a little white tote that contains what he calls his ,"treasures". His "treasures" are little toys that he has acquired from various places such as little cars, toys from McDonald's etc. To an adult, his little trinkets might seem far from anything we would consider precious but to his three-year-old heart they are really something.

This reminded me about a writing assignment I had in high school where the teacher had us write about a scenario he had created. In this scenario he had us imagine that our house was burning down and we had two minutes to grab something precious to us. We could only save one thing and we had to explain why we saved what we did, it's significance to us, and why we prized it above all of our other possessions, in effect, why it was our "treasure".

Most of my peers wrote down superficial things such as a favorite CD, love letters from a boyfriend or girlfriend, one student even chose the football that got the winning touchdown at one of his games. I do not remember what I chose and it probably holds no real significance to me now. However, I reflected on what I would save today if I had to write the same paper. I tried to think of something clever all day and couldn't come up with a single thing. In each stage of my life, I would have chosen different things but now instead of something being precious to me-- it's someone, my son.

Like any parent I would do anything for my child including sacrificing myself physically, emotionally, and financially. I have never felt this way about anyone before and for me it really puts God's love into perspective. Jesus must have been extremely precious to God, so for him to send his son to die for us...we all must be precious to him.
　
"For God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life". John 3:16
　
Tina Burton

Upcoming Events for November

Monday, November 2 Baby Shower for Mariah Triggs at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, room 109 at 6:30 pm. If you have any questions, contact Lisa Fraley at momsrgreat@comcast.net.

Tuesday, November 10 Topic Meeting- Meet at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, rm 109 at our new time 9:45 am for a time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion! Childcare is provided.

Tuesday, November 24 Topic Meeting- Meet at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, rm 109 at 9:45 am for a time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion! Childcare is provided.

Monday, November 30 Kick-off to Christmas with shopping at the Prime Outlets in Hagerstown, MD. Meet at Bethel Assembly of God at 6 pm to ride together in Bethel's van. Seating is limited, reserve your spot. Or join us directly at the Outlets at 6:30 pm in front of the food court. The expected departure time for the van is 9:30 pm to have you back to the church by 10 pm.

Testimony by Janine DiGiovanni

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6

Anyone that knows me knows that I have a problem with patience….my attitude is usually hurry up, gotta have it, give it to me now, oh never mind I will just do it myself! Sometimes I think I try this approach with God and he is slowly but surely teaching me that it doesn’t work that way in his kingdom.

This summer I came home during the hot spell we had and my house was 90 degrees. I called my friend who does heating and air-conditioning and he came over to give me the bad news. He could bypass the problem currently so that I could have cool air but I wouldn’t be able to turn on my heat without replacing the part. I immediately said “do it! How much could that little part cost”? He then regretfully told me that they no longer make this air-conditioning system and that if he can’t find the part left over somewhere I would have to replace everything to the tune of $4000. During this same time my husband’s car died and we had to purchase him another one to commute to Frederick. The morning we signed the loan papers I got the call that the part was nowhere to be found and that I would have to replace everything. My normal reaction would be to go ballistic and be emotional and rant about where the money was going to come from. I would normally have pulled out all of my banking records and got cracking on how I was going to pull this off!

For some reason the above verse “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Came to mind and I practiced something I am not sure if I have ever used before…..PATIENCE…..I relied on God that he was going to come through for me instead of the other way around. Later that month my brother-in-law Robert who is an electrician said maybe I could replace the parts inside of the motherboard if they are generic….when he pulled the board out he replaced what he had however he was pretty sure the computer chip was the problem and there was nothing he could do for me. Meanwhile we had the cold snap and my house was 50 degrees. For 6 days we were vagabonds going to my mom’s house and my mother-in-law’s house to keep warm. I was frustrated and frazzled with packing and moving and trying to keep my kids from falling apart at all the changes.

Then when we went to the young lives program last Thursday, Julia was listening to my story and said well we need to pray about this right now! She began to pray miracles over my heater along with Lisa and Kim. That following Monday my friend John came back to hook up the heater and to see if what Robert had replaced had done any good. No one really believed that it would work; in fact I had already packed my bag to stay the night somewhere else! The only thing I can say is that Philippians 4:6 kept playing over in my mind and I felt more peaceful than I had in a long time that things were going to be ok. The next thing I knew we had heat and we haven’t had any problems since! Each day that my house is warm I am reminded of God’s love, promises, and faithfulness in all aspects.

Janine DiGiovanni

Freedom from Fear and the Flu

Over the weekend I spent one evening at the emergency clinic of my child's pediatrician. The office was crammed full of parents and children with no room to even sit in a chair. Several kids came in with masks over their faces. After seeing the doctor we were told to be watchful the next few days because we have been "exposed" to the H1N1 flu virus. The same day the President announced a state of emergency for our country because of this virus. I continue to hear of cases in school, at church, and with friends. I am not comfortable allowing myself to live in fear and worry nor do I want my children living that way either. Maybe like me, you feel the same way.

When I begin to feel overwhelmed I open my Bible where God speaks personally to me (and to you). I need to refocus my mind and heart on what God says and not what I'm hearing or seeing around me. God wants us to live free from worry and fear even in difficult times. We have a God who loves us, provides for us, and protects us. God speaks to us in Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." In Isaiah 41:10, God says, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

It also helps to read about real people like David in 1 Samuel who had a lot of reasons to be afraid but chose to live free from fear. David had lost his home, his friends, his wife, his job, and his security. However he wrote in Psalm 34:4, "I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears". If God can do that for David then surely He can do that for me and you!! If your feeling fearful or worried today encourage yourself in God's Word today by looking up the following verses: Psalm 23:4-5, Psalm 56:11, Romans 8:31, 35-39, Psalm 27:1-3, Psalm 91, and 2 Timothy 1:7. Then remember to "not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:4-7).

Blessings,
Lisa

First, Trust God!! Then live smart! Here is some good advice from Dr. Vanay Goyal found on
Shepherd University Website:http://www.shepherd.edu/safweb/health/index.shtm

For the prevention of "Regular & H1N1 Swine" Flu

The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is. While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of flu infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, here are some very simple steps you can follow:

1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications) .

2. "Hands-off-the- face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face.

3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt). *H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tami flu has on an infected one.Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.

4. Clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water . By blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.
*Neti pot s and sinus rinse kits are available at the drug store and relatively inexpensive….under $15.

5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C(Amla and other citrus fruits). *If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.

6. Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc) as you can. *Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.

Pics from the Pumpkin Pizazz

Sitting at His Feet

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" "Martha Martha", the Lord answered "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her". Luke 10:38-42

In life there are many things we have to do. As moms, when our babies are small we have to make sure they are fed and rocked and that their diapers are changed and they are bathed. As they get older we help with homework, take them to school, soccer practice/games etc. Then there is the housework, laundry, grocery shopping and making dinner. Not to mention the many other commitments we may have, such as mom's group, church/functions and ministries. The list goes on and on. In the midst of all that we feel God tugging at our heart to pray, worship, read the Bible, witness to our neighbors, and use the gifts he gave us to serve him. This list can seem very overwhelming and if we do not prioritize correctly we can find ourselves neglecting the most important things.

Prayer for example is one of the most important things God calls us to do. It puts in perspective all of the other tasks we have especially our ministries. When we neglect to pray and spend time listening to God, we lose sight of why we are serving him. We often miss the important instructions we need to make our ministry successful. Also we are not giving him the thanks and praise he deserves for everything he is doing in our lives.

Business is a lame excuse for not praying. We are too busy not to pray. God knows how busy we are and the limitations we have, but he wants us to make him the top priority. We need to acknowledge that we can do nothing without him. When we do God takes care of the details. Martha's only thought was on her work and how Mary wasn't helping her. Even though she was serving Jesus, she didn't hear anything he said. Mary on the other hand was just in awe of the Savior, and at that time just wanted to sit at his feet and soak in all his words of wisdom. Jesus said Mary had chosen what was better and it would not be taken from her. Don't let excuses cause you to miss all that God has for you and everything he wants to do in you and through you. Jesus said that only one thing is needed. Will you choose the better thing the way that Mary did. Try sitting at his feet today and see the difference it makes in your life.

Kim Ratcliffe

Upcoming Events!!

Remainder of events for October

Tuesday, October 27 Topic Meeting- Meet at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, rm 109 at our new time 9:45 am for a time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion! Childcare is provided.

Upcoming events for November

Monday, November 2 Baby Shower for Mariah Triggs at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, room 109 at 6:30 pm. If you have any questions, contact Lisa Fraley at momsrgreat@comcast.net.

Tuesday, November 10 Topic Meeting- Meet at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, rm 109 at our new time 9:45 am for a time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion! Childcare is provided.

Tuesday, November 24 Topic Meeting- Meet at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, rm 109 at 9:45 am for a time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion! Childcare is provided.

Monday, November 30 Kick-off to Christmas with shopping at the Prime Outlets in Hagerstown, MD. Meet at Bethel Assembly of God at 6 pm to ride together in Bethel's van. Seating is limited, reserve your spot. Or join us directly at the Outlets at 6:30 pm in front of the food court. The expected departure time for the van is 9:30 pm to have you back to the church by 10 pm.

Physical Inventory

As the days on the calendar were crossed off this year, another birthday came and went. And I did the same thing I do every year around this time – physical inventory. It’s not a pleasant task, more like torture really, but it’s something I feel compelled to do. I take a good, long, up-close and personal look in the mirror, and take inventory of the effects of moving past yet another birthday. The results this year were not pretty… Hair with a serious attitude problem that also now requires industrial strength color to cover all the gray; skin that is beginning to crease and wrinkle even when I don’t move my face; parts of me are now drooping lower than ever; a rear-end which has expanded enough to need it’s own zip code. Like I said, not pretty. To call this inventory disappointing is an understatement. I was depressed – deeply depressed. As I stood staring into that mirror I thought, "I don’t know this woman staring back at me! She’s old! She’s ugly! Who could love this mess??" I felt totally worthless.

This is how the enemy attacks me. He nags at my self-esteem by pointing out all my physical failures. He tells me I’m worthless; too ugly to be loved. He tries to drag me down so low. But then God whispers to me that to Him, I am more beautiful than the rarest of gems!

And so, as I stared back at my reflection that day I began to, "…take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5b. Retaking my inventory that day, with the knowledge of my beauty to God, changed my perceptions. My stubborn gray hair was now, "…a crown of splendor" Proverbs 16:31. Those creases and wrinkles became the evidence of my laughter and joy at how God has blessed me. All those drooping, sagging parts became sweet reminders of the awesome privilege of carrying life and becoming a mother to two precious little boys. And lastly, my "rear-expansion" became a not-so-subtle reminder to embrace God’s Word more, and the pepperoni pizza less. Is God amazing at makeovers or what?!

The next time you stop to take a physical inventory, be sure to use God’s perspective. I think you’ll be saying, "Hello Gorgeous!"

Be Blessed!
Donnis L. Lloyd

Where is your medicine cabinet?

Whenever I am in pain physically I make my way straight to my bathroom. I pull open my medicine cabinet and pull out whatever I need to take care of the pain. After taking it, I have to wait for it to take affect. It has to make its way to my stomach, dissolve, and spread through my blood stream before I feel it working. It's normally a fifteen minute wait. During this time I know something is happening inside of me even when though I don't see. This is how I think of prayer.

When I pray to my heavenly father, it's like I'm going to the medicine cabinet. I can't control the things in my life just like I can't control the pain in my body. I need help. After I open up in prayer to God, I tell him all about it. I soak in His peace, His strength, and His assurance that help is on the way. It's like I took the pain medication and I know something good is going to happen. Now I have to wait just as I'm waiting for the Advil to kick in.

I am certain that just as the pain medication takes time to work its way through my body to take away my pain that God is moving in the same way. I believe this because I am a child of God (Romans 8:16). I have been saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). God's Word says, I will be delivered from the powers of darkness (Colossians 1:13), kept in safety wherever I go (Psalms 91:11), and will get all my needs met by Jesus (Philippians 4:19). I can cast all my cares on Jesus (1 Peter 5:7) because he cares for me. I am healed by his stripes (1 Peter 2:24), blessed with all spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3), and more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37). I do this by walking by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).

Therefore I can not understand the people who "try" not to use any medication to relieve their pain. They prefer to suffer than to feel better. They run more to imperfect human beings than to the medicine cabinet- GOD. What are you waiting for? Go! (If you want to know how, ask me!!)

Blessings,
Lisa

Pics from the Park

Being Swept Clean

As I was sweeping my kitchen one day, I became annoyed by the fact that no matter how much I swept there still seemed to be dirt left behind. Just when I thought I was done and began to mop, I noticed there was still dirt in corners and under the table. I then had to grab the broom again to pick up what I had missed. In my irritation I thought, why can't I ever get my floor clean enough?

The Lord then began to show me the comparison to this and my Christian life. I get annoyed in the same way when no matter how much I pray and repent, I still am not clean enough. There are still areas in my life where the dirt of sin and disobedience still remain. I have to go to the Lord daily to be swept clean again and to ask what areas still need attention. This is very frustrating for me. I want to be made completely clean right now. I am impatient with the cleaning process. No matter how much work God has already done there is still more to do. But thankfully God is patient when I am not. His word says "perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete not lacking anything" James 1:4. God made me realize that I must persevere until His work in me is complete. He further promises in Philippians 1:6...."that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus".

My kitchen floor may never be completely clean, but I am assured by God's word that one day I will be. So don't be discouraged we are all a work in progress. Let's look forward to the day when we see that work completed.

Kim Ratcliffe

Events for October

Book Order-If you planned on purchasing one of the Christian books on reproduction/sex and have not already paid, please be sure to contact Julia Bivens at 304-263-8530 or your order will be canceled.

Thursday, October 15 Younglives Ministry- We are partnering with this ministry that reaches out to teem moms. If you know of a teen mom invite or bring them to a club meeting at Westview Baptist Church in Martinsburg, WV between 6-8pm. This Club meeting includes dinner, childcare, music, games, childcare, lifeskills, and the message. If you have any questions about this outreach, contact Lisa Fraley at momsrgreat@comcast.net.
A special thank you to the moms who are supplying the food for their dinner on this club date.

Friday, October 16 Times of Refreshing Prayer- Meet at Kim Ratcliffe's house anytime between 10am-2pm for a time of prayer. Come, share, and have your needs lifted up to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who sits on the right hand of God to make intercession for you.
If you need directions, contact Kim at 304-229-6776.

Saturday, October 17 Pumpkin Fest at Ridgefield Farm- Join us at Ridgefield Farm and Orchard in Harper's Ferry, WV for their Pumpkin Fest at 11am where there will be a hayride, corn maze, live music, magic show, and pumpkin picking. The charge is $7 per person (under 3 free). For more information, check out the blog this Friday or contact Janine @ 304-274-2080 or @ 304-229-3239

Tuesday, October 20 Pumpkin Pizazz Party-Join us for pumpkin decorating at 10 am in the Mace building, rm 109. Bring pumpkin(s) for you and your child(ren). For decorating bring paints, ribbons, or any crafts to share with others. For munchies bring a fall snack to share!

Tuesday, October 27 Topic Meeting- Meet at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, rm 109 at 9:45 am for a time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion! Childcare is provided.

Getting to Know....Heidi Shank

This month I have chosen to feature a very special woman in Heidi Shank. She is the leader of our Women's Ministries group, a member of the praise and worship team at Bethel Assembly of God in Martinsburg, WV, and an important member of Mom's Connection. (Pictured above from left to right is Heidi, her two daughters, and sister)

She really has a heart for God, His ministry and serving His people. I recently sent her a questionnaire so I could find out more about her and one of the questions I asked was about Women's Ministries. I asked her what the mission of the group is and who can be a part of it. Her answer was that ,"Women’s Ministry at Bethel is for ALL ladies…in any stage of life. As women we all need other ladies who can relate to our everyday experiences. We are endeavoring to minister to all women in all stages of their lives. Come out and join us for some exciting activities. You don’t want to miss out on the FUN!!"

She has served on the worship team for 13 years and also directs Kid's Choir. She has a beautiful voice and I enjoy hearing her sing every Sunday. I asked her about her favorite thing about Mom's Connection and she said, "Spending time with other moms. It’s good to know there are others out there going through some of the same every day struggles with their children. I enjoy our topic discussions."

Heidi has been married to her husband Joel for 13 years. They met when they both worked at Kmart. They began dating in January of 1994 and were married on June 29th, 1996. They have two beautiful girls, Haylie is 9 and Abbi is 4. They are her life. She loves being a mom. I asked her about the most rewarding thing about being a mom and she said it is seeing how her girls are growing into smart, lovely young ladies. She says she hopes to instill something positive into their lives even though she says sometimes she has to remind them that they need to act like "young ladies and not monsters".

Her hobbies and interests include spending time with family and friends. She is passionate about music and singing. She loves cooking and baking. She loves to shop but "only when she has the money in which to do so". She also likes to read and loves being connected to the outside world through her computer. She enjoys connecting with old friends and making new ones.

I asked her what a relationship with the Lord means to her and she said, "I don’t remember ever not having the Lord in my life. I was very young when I accepted him into my heart. Even when times were tough, I always knew he was there. To me, Jesus is my friend, my comfort, my peace and so many other things in my life. But most of all He saved me and He sustains me every single day." Her favorite Bible verse ( if she had to pick just one) would be Psalm 34:1 which says, "I will praise the Lord at all times; His praise is always on my lips." This verse reminds her that even though it's not always easy to praise him in the hard times " if we ask the Lord for help he will answer us and save us from all we fear. He is always there when we need Him."

I have really enjoyed getting to know more about Heidi and I hope that you have also.
Tina Burton

Our Comfort Zone

My stomach was in knots. I had already went to the bathroom several times. I can feel myself shaking out of nervousness. I ask myself, "why are you doing this"? But I know exactly why. Because the one who asked me to go, I couldn't ignore any longer.

These are the feelings I had when I went to the prayer group, God Catchers, for the first time. It might be hard for you to imagine but I'm not the same person now. I did not like to be around people I didn't know real well. I didn't pray for very long and certainly not in front of anyone. I didn't like to travel places I hadn't been before. I also didn't like close intimate conversations. Everything about it was completely out of my comfort zone.

But guess what? God wants us to get out of our comfort zone. He wants to do more in us than we can think or imagine for ourselves. I don't know what that is for you. What I do know is God's voice is speaking! Shhh...what do you hear?

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk it it'." Isaiah 30:21

Blessings,
Lisa

Pumpkin Fest at Ridgefield Farm and Orchard

On Saturday, October 17 Mom's Connection will be meeting at Ridgefield Farm and Orchard at 11am for their Pumpkin Fest. Join us for rollicking hayrides, confusing corn mazes, pumpkin-picking, magic shows, live music, the famous pirate ship, our Country Store and fresh cider –– all have made Ridgefield Farm a favorite farm experience for generations.

Grab a wagon and head off to the Pumpkin Patch to pick the perfect pumpkin or a buy a bag of fresh apples. Take in the Magic Show at 1pm and 3pm or grab some food and listen to great music. You can check it out at www.ridgefieldfarm.com/pumpkinfest

The charge is only $7 per person (3 and under admitted free) which lets you enjoy all the entertainment of the farm, and it includes the Hayride, Corn Maze, Magic Show, and Live Music. Remainder of attractions run throughout the day. You can find pumpkin fest discount coupons by submitting a short form online by clicking on the above website. Then, simply print and redeem for your discounted admission.

The live music presented will be by the Speakeasy Boys. The Speakeasy Boys play traditional and non-traditional acoustic, bluegrass and old-time music, in their own unique zesty river hobo jug band style.

This would be a great time for you to pick up your pumpkin for the Pumpkin Pizazz party on Tuesday, October 20 at 10 am at Bethel Assembly of God. If you have any questions, contact Jennifer at jennkirsch@gmail.com or Janine at janinedigiovanni@hotmail.com. Hope to see you there!

Patience

I confess... my son is a french fry addict. Every time we go by any place that sells anything that even remotely resembles a french fry we hear a little voice emanating from the backseat saying, "Fry-fries... daddy get fry-fries..." Of course, we have to pass by all of the major fast food restaurants in most of our travels and every time, without fail, we hear his little voice making it's pleas from the backseat.

Sunday, on our way to church we once again had to pass by those same restaurants and we heard him stating his case..." Fry-fries.... fry fries...I get fry-fries...." He had just had breakfast before we left the house. There was no way that he could possibly be hungry but out of habit, as soon as he saw us pass those golden arches he couldn't resist. After we had passed all the fry and burger joints I then heard him say, "You gotta wait...."

Ever since he said that on Sunday, I have been thinking about my level of patience. How many times in my life have I failed to tell myself that, "I gotta wait.."? How many times have I pleaded just like my son for something but failed to remember those three words my son said? How many times have I asked the Lord for something I thought I really needed and expected it instantaneously by my time standard?

After asking myself these questions I decided to dive into God's word to see what it says about patience. Psalm 27:13-14 says, " I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." As a mom, having patience doesn't always come easily but it is the one virtue that all of us need in abundance. We need patience as we watch our child do the same thing that he/she was told not to do at least ten times. We need patience as we are potty training our little ones....sending them to school...watching them head out into this big world. Join me today in praying that God will fill our hearts with patience so that we might teach our children this virtue through our own actions.


Tina Burton

*Time Change*

Because there are many moms who have to leave our meetings early due to their child's preschool schedule, the leadership team has decided to begin our meetings fifteen minutes early. Our new meeting time will be 9:45 AM! This will begin our refreshment and fellowship time. We will be asking moms who are responsible for snack to bring their dish to our meeting room first then deposit your child(ren) in the appropriate rooms for childcare.

As we arrive at 9:45 AM, we can get our refreshments and enjoy some time socializing before our announcements begin at 10am. Our hope is that this small change will insure us to getting into our discussion groups no later than 10:30am. That way those who have to leave early will be able to enjoy their care circle for at least 45 minutes! As always our desire is for this group to be a time for moms to relax, form friendships, and grow more confident in their role as mother!!

Lisa Fraley

Upcoming Events

Our upcoming events for October:

Tuesday, October 13 Topic Meeting- Meet at Bethel Assembly of God in the Mace building, rm 109 at 9:45 am for a time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion! Childcare is provided.
*If you planned on purchasing one of the books on reproduction/sex, please bring the payment at this meeting. For pricing, call Julia Bivens at 304-263-8530.

Friday, October 16 Times of Refreshing Prayer- Meet at Kim Ratcliffe's house anytime between 10am-2pm for a time of prayer. Come, share, and have your needs lifted up to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who sits on the right hand of God to make intercession for you. If you need directions, contact Kim at 304-229-6776.

Saturday, October 17 Pumpkin Fest at Ridgefield Farm- Join us at Ridgefield Farm and Orchard in Harper's Ferry, WV for their Pumpkin Fest at 11am where there will be a hayride, corn maze, live music, magic show, and pumpkin picking. The charge is $7 per person (under 3 free). For more information, check out the blog this Friday or contact Janine DiGiovanni @ 304-274-2080 or Jennifer Kirsch @ 304-229-3239

Tuesday, October 20 Pumpkin Pizazz Party-Join us for pumpkin decorating at 10 am in the Mace building, rm 109. Bring pumpkin(s) for you and your child(ren). For decorating bring paints, ribbons, or any crafts to share with others. For munchies bring a fall snack to share!

Tuesday, October 27 Topic Meeting- Meet at Bethel Assembley of God in the Mace building, rm 109 at 9:45 am for a time of fellowship, prayer, and discussion! Childcare is provided.

Our Leadership

Every first Tuesday the leadership of Mom's Connection gets together for our monthly meeting. We plan our future activities, trouble shoot any areas of concern, and pray together. We pray for God's blessing in everything we do in our meetings and in our lives. We pray for every member, their needs, and future members that God is leading to us. We ask God to go with us into every meeting because we won't go without Him. We asked God to transform our marriages and our minds as we are focusing on those areas of study.

This group of moms in leadership are smart women. Here is a list of a few of their accomplishments: Bachelor degree in Elementary Education, Associates of Applied Science in Accounting, Associates of Applied Science in Information Technology, Bachelor degree in Elementary Education and Secondary Mathematics, Piano Instructor, former student of William & Mary and a person with far-reaching knowledge of scripture.

With so many qualifications, they could do so many other things with their time and talents. Yet they have put it all aside for what God has called them to do right now. They are smart, committed, and Holy Spirit-led moms passionate in their work for the Lord and for Mom's Connection! I am so thankful for each one of them!

Lisa Fraley

God's No Fantasy

　
"Mommy, I want a laptop for Christmas this year but don't worry, Santa's going to get it for me". My son is already making his mental Christmas list. But after I heard him say that, my heart sank. He really believed it. He believes in Santa. I know its great when they believe when their two, three, or even six but nine years old!!! I just assumed it wouldn't be an issue by this age. I have never point blank told my children that Santa's real. I just make reference to him around the holidays. I have always focused on Jesus as the real reason for the season.

However, I felt compelled to set the record straight. So I busted his bubble. I told my son Santa's a fantasy. In school he has been studying the different types of writings. (Ex. fiction, fantasy, nonfiction, etc.) So he completely understood what I meant by a fantasy. Then of course he asked about the Easter bunny and the tooth fairy. As I was crushing all his childhood dreams, I thought where is the hope in all this. Then I knew...

I was overwhelmed with the great news that God is no fantasy. Jesus really did die on a cross for our sins. Our eternal hope and future is secure in Christ Jesus! I can feel His presence. I can speak to my Savior. The whole Earth testifies to a divine Creator. So I looked at my beautiful boy and told him, "But all is not lost. The real reason for Christmas is what I have always told you. It's about Jesus!"

Then instead of focusing on what is not real, we turned to what is. I talked to him about the certainty of our faith in Jesus, the truth of God's Word, and our eternal destiny that can never be taken away from us! As I finished praying with him that night, he thanked me.

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39

Blessings,
Lisa

Harvest Hoedown

A Harvest Hoedown will be held on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Byron Memorial Park in Williamsport, MD. The Hoedown is sponsored by the Williamsport Ministerium. Canned food items will be collected and proceeds from the event will help the local food bank. Live music in the band shell starts at 10 a.m. Come and enjoy great food, homemade bake sale, crafts and collectibles, games and prizes for kids, pumpkin painting, scarecrow making and a silent auction.

Please bring canned food items and cash donations for the Williamsport Food Bank. If you would like to donate something for the silent auction, call Diana Church at 301-223-7040.

In October there are many activities in our community and surrounding areas for us to enjoy. If you know of one, please email me the information so we can share it with each other.
Thanks,
Lisa Fraley

The Renewing of Your Mind

Never again confess "I can't," for "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).

Let's confess God's Word in faith so we can stand our ground against the enemy and live victoriously in every area of our lives.