Peeking out from the corner of my desk blotter is a note, slowly yellowing and bent from time.
It is a card from my mother, containing only four sentences, but with enough impact to change my life forever.
In it, she praises my abilities as a writer, without qualification. Each sentence is filled with love, offering specific examples of what my pursuit has meant to her and my father.
The word "but" never appears on the card. However the word "and" is there almost a half dozen times.
Every time I read it--which is almost every day--I am reminded to ask myself if I am doing the same thing for my daughters. I've asked myself how many times I've "but-ted" them, and me, out of happiness.
I hate to say that it's more often then I'd like to admit.
Although our eldest daughter usually got all As on her report card, there was never a semester when at least one teacher would not suggest that she talked too much in class. I always forgot to ask them if she was making improvement in controlling her behavior, if her comments contributed to the discussion in progress or encouraged a quieter child to talk. Instead, I would come home and greet her with, "Congratulations! Your dad and I are very proud of your accomplishment, but could you try to tone it down in class?"
The same was true of our younger daughter. Like her sister, she is a lovely, bright, articulate, and friendly child. She also treats the floor of her room and the bathroom as a closet, which has provoked me to say on more than one occasion, "Yes, that project is great, but clean up your room!"
I've noticed that other parents do the same thing, "Our whole family was together for Christmas, but Kyle skipped out early to play his new computer game." "The hockey team won, but Mike should have made that last goal." "Amy's the homecoming queen, but now she wants two hundred dollars to buy a new dress and shoes."
But, but, but.
Instead, what I learned from my mother is that if you really want love to flow to your children, start thinking "and, and, and..." instead.
For example: "Our whole family was together for Christmas dinner, and Kyle mastered his new computer game before the night was through." "The hockey team won, and Mike did his best the whole game."
"Amy's the homecoming queen, and she's going to look gorgeous!"
The fact is that "but" feels bad--"and" feels good. And when it comes to our children, feeling good is definitely the way to go. When they feel good about themselves and what they're doing, they do more of it, building their self-confidence, their judgement and their harmonious connections to others. When everything they say, think or do is qualified or put down in some way, their joy sours and their anger soars.
This is not to say that children don't need or won't respond to their parents' expectations. They do and they will, regardless of whether those expectations are good or bad. When those expectations are consistently bright and positive and then are taught, modeled, and expressed amazing things happen. "I see you made a mistake. And I know you are intelligent enough to figure out what you did wrong and make a better decision next time." Or, "You've been spending hours on that project, and I'd love to have you explain it to me." Or, "We work hard for our money, and I know you can help figure out a way to pay for what you want."
It's not enough just to say we love our children. In a time when frustration has grown fierce, we can no longer afford to limit loves expression. If we want to tone down the sound of violence in our society, we're going to have to turn up the volume on noticing, praising, guiding and participating in what is right with our children.
"No more buts!" is a clarion call for joy. It's also a challenge, the opportunity fresh before us every day to put our attention on what is good and promising about our children, and to believe with all our hearts that they will eventually be able to see the same in us and the people with who they will ultimately live, work and serve.
And if I ever forget, I have my mother's note to remind me.
"And, And, And" by Robin Silverman copyright 1999 from "Chicken Soup for the Unsinkable Soul: 101 Inspirational Stories of Overcoming Life's Challenges" by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and Heather McNamara
Thank you to Tina Burton for sharing this with all of us.
Lisa
Showing posts with label Thought for Thursday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thought for Thursday. Show all posts
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Help Wanted--The Ideal Mother
The transition into motherhood can be tough on anyone.
"I just wasn't cut out to be a good mother," says the weary voice of my friend on the telephone. "I can't get the baby to sleep through the night. I scream too much at my toddler when he gets into things. And my six-year-old is always whining that she doesn't have enough to do. At least in the office I have someone to teach me the job and my evening and weekends off."
I understand her completely because I am also a mother. The difficulty isn't just that first transition, either. It's the ongoing reshaping of pieces of a personality and a way of living to become the kind of mother a child needs at each stage of his or her life.
For example, a job description for the kind of person who would be an ideal mother for a baby might read like this:
Wanted--Easygoing, relaxed, loving type to care for infant. Should enjoy rocking, cuddling, be able to hold baby patiently for 20- minute feedings every three or four hours without fidgeting. Light sleeper, early riser. No degree necessary. Must take all shifts, seven-day week. No vacation unless can arrange to have own mother as temporary substitute. No opportunity to advance.
A year and a half later, the ideal candidate for the job of mothering the same child would match this description:
Wanted--Athlete in top condition to safeguard tireless toddler. Needs quick reflexes, boundless energy, infinite patience. ESP helpful. Knowledge of first aid essential. Must be able to drive, cook. phone, work despite constant distractions. Workday, 15 hours. No coffee or lunch breaks unless child naps. Would consider pediatric nurse with Olympic background.
In another 18 months, the same mother should be able to meet these qualifications:
Position Open--Expert in early childhood education to provide stimulating. loving, creative, individualized learning environment for pre-schooler. Should have experience in art, music, recreation, be able to speak one foreign language. Training in linguistics, psychology and Montessori desirable. Two hours off five days a week when nursery school is in session and child is well.
Job stability improves somewhat when a child is between 6 and 12, and the mothers who cope most easily meet these qualifications:
Good Opportunity-- For expert in recreation, camping, Indian arts, all sports. Should be able to referree. Must be willing to be den mother, room mother, block mother. Public relations skills essential. Should be able to deal effectively with teachers, PTA officers, other parents. Knowledge of sex education, new math required. Must have no objections to mud, insect collections, pets, neighbor's kids.
A mother changes occupations again when her child reaches 13 or 14 and must face up to new requirements:
Job Available--For specialist in adolescent psychology, with experience in large-quantity cooking. Tolerance is chief requirement. Slight hearing-loss helpful or must provide own ear plugs. Must be unflappable. Should be able to sense when presense is embarrassing to child and disappear.
After 18 years as a working mother, a woman is qualified for only one more job:
Urgently Needed-- Financier to provide money, clothes, music, wheels to collegian. No advice necessary. Position may last indefinately. Ample time left to take income-producing work.
Like most want ads, there are some things these work descriptions leave out: (1) A mother who has more than one child must usually hold down two or more of these posts simultaneously; (2) those who handle the jobs best work themselves permanently out of a job, and (3) there are greater rewards than anyone could ever imagine.
By Joan Beck from "Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul: 101 Stories to Open the Hearts and Rekindle the Spirits of Women" by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, Jennifer Read Hawthorne and Marci Shimoff Copyright 1996
Thursday, June 23, 2011
The King of Books
"The Bible is the mind of God, and reveals the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. It's doctrines are holy, it's precepts are binding, it's histories are true, and it's decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to supply you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's chart. Here paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed. Christ is it's grand subject our good it's design, and the glory of God it's end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given to you in life, will be open at the Judgement, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and condemns all who trifle with it's contents."
Anonymous A Christian publication for British railroad workers entitled "The King of Books" (1891)
No book has ever impacted the world like the Bible. It's the most popular and powerful book on earth and it's influence is growing stronger every day. Many spurn it, ridicule it, attack it, trash it, and even burn it. But it outlives all its critics while, at the same time, transforming the lives of all who receive its message. In good conscience, I can full recommend God's Word to your minds and hearts. I have no reservations at all. We may not fully understand every single verse, but that's only to be expected if our Book comes from an infinite mind. It contains mysteries unfathomable. Yet all we really need to know is contained within its covers. The apostle Peter said, "His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature....
(2 Peter 1:3-4).
Isaac Watts, the great hymnist, was a lifelong bachelor (he once proposed to a girl but was turned down). He lives in borrowed (but elegant) quarters. He spent much of his time writing great hymns and, later, influential textbooks. And he somehow balanced the tasks of pastoring a church and producing a massive volume of published works. He once revealed the secret of his vitality and productivity in this admonition: "Abandon the secret chamber," he warned, "and the spiritual life will decay." In other words, don't miss your devotions! Read, learn, memorize, and obey God's Word every day. It is inspired by Him and therefore indispensable to us. It truly is the king of Books.
Turning Point by David Jeremiah (June issue)
Kim Ratcliffe
Anonymous A Christian publication for British railroad workers entitled "The King of Books" (1891)
No book has ever impacted the world like the Bible. It's the most popular and powerful book on earth and it's influence is growing stronger every day. Many spurn it, ridicule it, attack it, trash it, and even burn it. But it outlives all its critics while, at the same time, transforming the lives of all who receive its message. In good conscience, I can full recommend God's Word to your minds and hearts. I have no reservations at all. We may not fully understand every single verse, but that's only to be expected if our Book comes from an infinite mind. It contains mysteries unfathomable. Yet all we really need to know is contained within its covers. The apostle Peter said, "His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature....
(2 Peter 1:3-4).
Isaac Watts, the great hymnist, was a lifelong bachelor (he once proposed to a girl but was turned down). He lives in borrowed (but elegant) quarters. He spent much of his time writing great hymns and, later, influential textbooks. And he somehow balanced the tasks of pastoring a church and producing a massive volume of published works. He once revealed the secret of his vitality and productivity in this admonition: "Abandon the secret chamber," he warned, "and the spiritual life will decay." In other words, don't miss your devotions! Read, learn, memorize, and obey God's Word every day. It is inspired by Him and therefore indispensable to us. It truly is the king of Books.
Turning Point by David Jeremiah (June issue)
Kim Ratcliffe
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Preparing for the teen years
Pastor Jane Campbell was so kind to come and speak with many of us moms this past Tuesday who want to be prepared as our children approach the teen years. For those who participated in another discussion opportunity or who could not make it, below is what she shared with us. I hope you get as much out of it as I did. ~Lisa
I want to tell you that the teen years are incredible years of parenting- and way more than merely tolerating your adolescent.
What is your current outlook?
1. You might as well take me away to the funny farm now!
2. You don't know my child- I don't know if I can do this.
3. I've enjoyed every stage of parenting- I believe the teen years will be no exception.
As I was praying for you about this talk, I felt the Lord prompt me to share this: Don't be afraid. The Lord will help you navigate through these years.
And also: For some of you in your desire to keep your child safe, protected, and on the right path, your tendency is to control too much. Yes, be wise. Yes, be aware. But don't suffocate your child.
As a parent you feel a deep-in-your-soul fear about the world your son or daughter must live in. Let's face it, there are risks that we are preparing them to face in our environment: depression, the power of friends, the bombardment of media, violence, alternative lifestyles, a sexually saturated society. It is enough to make a mom's heart afraid. But listen to God's timeless words to us: "Our son's in their youth will be like well nurtured plants, and our daughter's will be pillars carved to adorn a palace." Psalm 144:12
That's not just a nice poetic thought. It's a promise from the inventor of the family, the designer of your son or daughter. If you "well nurture" your son, he will be like a healthy plant, rooted, strong, productive. If you skillfully carve your daughter's life, she will be like a pillar of a palace. This doesn't refer to her figure, but to a young woman who is a work of art, royally beautiful, solidly dependable. And if we do a good job nurturing and beautifying, here's the payoff:
"Our barns will be filled with every kind of provision, there will be no breaching of walls, no going into captivity, no cries of distress in our streets." Psalm 144:13-14
So how can we nurture and shape?
1. Thermostat or thermometer? A thermometer reflects the temperature. A thermostat sets the temperature and as parents set the climate. Unfortunately too many parents are thermometers. They reflect the temperature set by their child at the moment: hot, cold, loud, moody, nice, nasty. this is reactive parenting- forever reacting to the changing moods of someone one third their age.
An effective parent is a thermostat- knowing your mission and staying steady on the course. Thermostat moms set the climate with each child at a consistent temperature.
2. Look beyond their deeds to their needs- Most of a teens deeds are the acting out of needs that are either met or unmet. If we want to change the deed, meet the need that's fueling it.
3. Maintaining a relationship with them is key with communication, time, and listening.
4. Too much too soon. Be careful with texting, facebook, computer, and music. They should all be monitored. Be in touch with your teens technology related social life by monitoring it because they need accountability.
5. Play with your child now and often. When they enjoy you and you enjoy them, you earn the right to be heard. You can do this with last night talks and spontaneous moments of laughter.
A teen needs:
1. A secure self- Our primary feelings of whether we are okay or not come from our mother and father.
2. Sexual answers
3. Satisfying love
4. Stable authority- a united front
5. Spiritual reality- modeling a passionate, growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
Final thought
A parent could raise a child who is physically attractive, mentally sharp, and socially skilled and still leave him or her spiritually unprovided for.
Our missle defense system in America is pretty impressive. Inside each of those silos where the missle is held, is a missle that will go up to 6000 miles- punched into the sky by a fiery launch beneath the ground- and it knows where its going. Missles have inner guidance systems toward a target.
Your teen is a powerful missle with a high-powered education, socially aware, and sexually aware and needs an internal guidance system.
Pastor Jane Campbell
Recommended books from Pastor Jane:
"'Bloom' A Girls Guide to Growing Up" by Susie Shellenberger
"What Your Daughter Isn't Telling You" by Susie Shellenberger
"I Kissed Dating Goodbye" by Joshua Harris
"Preparing for Adolescence" by James Dobson
Devotional book for your teen:
"The One Minute Bible" by Doug Fields
I want to tell you that the teen years are incredible years of parenting- and way more than merely tolerating your adolescent.
What is your current outlook?
1. You might as well take me away to the funny farm now!
2. You don't know my child- I don't know if I can do this.
3. I've enjoyed every stage of parenting- I believe the teen years will be no exception.
As I was praying for you about this talk, I felt the Lord prompt me to share this: Don't be afraid. The Lord will help you navigate through these years.
And also: For some of you in your desire to keep your child safe, protected, and on the right path, your tendency is to control too much. Yes, be wise. Yes, be aware. But don't suffocate your child.
As a parent you feel a deep-in-your-soul fear about the world your son or daughter must live in. Let's face it, there are risks that we are preparing them to face in our environment: depression, the power of friends, the bombardment of media, violence, alternative lifestyles, a sexually saturated society. It is enough to make a mom's heart afraid. But listen to God's timeless words to us: "Our son's in their youth will be like well nurtured plants, and our daughter's will be pillars carved to adorn a palace." Psalm 144:12
That's not just a nice poetic thought. It's a promise from the inventor of the family, the designer of your son or daughter. If you "well nurture" your son, he will be like a healthy plant, rooted, strong, productive. If you skillfully carve your daughter's life, she will be like a pillar of a palace. This doesn't refer to her figure, but to a young woman who is a work of art, royally beautiful, solidly dependable. And if we do a good job nurturing and beautifying, here's the payoff:
"Our barns will be filled with every kind of provision, there will be no breaching of walls, no going into captivity, no cries of distress in our streets." Psalm 144:13-14
So how can we nurture and shape?
1. Thermostat or thermometer? A thermometer reflects the temperature. A thermostat sets the temperature and as parents set the climate. Unfortunately too many parents are thermometers. They reflect the temperature set by their child at the moment: hot, cold, loud, moody, nice, nasty. this is reactive parenting- forever reacting to the changing moods of someone one third their age.
An effective parent is a thermostat- knowing your mission and staying steady on the course. Thermostat moms set the climate with each child at a consistent temperature.
2. Look beyond their deeds to their needs- Most of a teens deeds are the acting out of needs that are either met or unmet. If we want to change the deed, meet the need that's fueling it.
3. Maintaining a relationship with them is key with communication, time, and listening.
4. Too much too soon. Be careful with texting, facebook, computer, and music. They should all be monitored. Be in touch with your teens technology related social life by monitoring it because they need accountability.
5. Play with your child now and often. When they enjoy you and you enjoy them, you earn the right to be heard. You can do this with last night talks and spontaneous moments of laughter.
A teen needs:
1. A secure self- Our primary feelings of whether we are okay or not come from our mother and father.
2. Sexual answers
3. Satisfying love
4. Stable authority- a united front
5. Spiritual reality- modeling a passionate, growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
Final thought
A parent could raise a child who is physically attractive, mentally sharp, and socially skilled and still leave him or her spiritually unprovided for.
Our missle defense system in America is pretty impressive. Inside each of those silos where the missle is held, is a missle that will go up to 6000 miles- punched into the sky by a fiery launch beneath the ground- and it knows where its going. Missles have inner guidance systems toward a target.
Your teen is a powerful missle with a high-powered education, socially aware, and sexually aware and needs an internal guidance system.
Pastor Jane Campbell
Recommended books from Pastor Jane:
"'Bloom' A Girls Guide to Growing Up" by Susie Shellenberger
"What Your Daughter Isn't Telling You" by Susie Shellenberger
"I Kissed Dating Goodbye" by Joshua Harris
"Preparing for Adolescence" by James Dobson
Devotional book for your teen:
"The One Minute Bible" by Doug Fields
Friday, April 29, 2011
An Easter Miracle
A month ago an awful, horrible thing happened at my home. “Purple Bunny” went missing. My daughter, Hannah, was devastated and then it began…the looking, hoping, and praying.
For four weeks we looked for bunny. I looked all over the house, in the car, and outside. I drove around the mall parking lot because maybe it dropped out of the car. I asked my friends. I checked lost and founds. I asked the church office if they had seen a purple bunny. But nothing…
We wondered what happened to purple bunny. Was she in a dark ditch somewhere? Was she dirty, wet, or cold? Was she going to be like Edward Tulane on a great adventure or the Velveteen Rabbit on her way to becoming real?
Every night at bedtime Hannah called upon God to bring purple bunny home. She was relentless in her prayers. She cried and asked God to watch over her bunny. It seemed impossible that bunny would ever be found. As I was praying over our Easter dinner thanking Jesus for dying on the cross for our sins and raising from the dead three days later, here comes a small voice breaking through saying, “And Jesus, please bring my purple bunny home.”
That night as I was tucking in my daughter and praying again over her purple bunny, I asked God to show Hannah how important she was to Him and how He does hear her prayers. And the next day, He did! She found thin, scruffy, one eyed, purple bunny! That night Hannah proclaimed it was her EASTER MIRACLE!
It wasn’t just her Easter miracle but it was mine too! The real miracle for me was seeing God show up for my child, to see her faith grow right in front of me, and to remind me that God answers prayers.
Blessings,
Lisa
For four weeks we looked for bunny. I looked all over the house, in the car, and outside. I drove around the mall parking lot because maybe it dropped out of the car. I asked my friends. I checked lost and founds. I asked the church office if they had seen a purple bunny. But nothing…
We wondered what happened to purple bunny. Was she in a dark ditch somewhere? Was she dirty, wet, or cold? Was she going to be like Edward Tulane on a great adventure or the Velveteen Rabbit on her way to becoming real?
Every night at bedtime Hannah called upon God to bring purple bunny home. She was relentless in her prayers. She cried and asked God to watch over her bunny. It seemed impossible that bunny would ever be found. As I was praying over our Easter dinner thanking Jesus for dying on the cross for our sins and raising from the dead three days later, here comes a small voice breaking through saying, “And Jesus, please bring my purple bunny home.”
That night as I was tucking in my daughter and praying again over her purple bunny, I asked God to show Hannah how important she was to Him and how He does hear her prayers. And the next day, He did! She found thin, scruffy, one eyed, purple bunny! That night Hannah proclaimed it was her EASTER MIRACLE!
It wasn’t just her Easter miracle but it was mine too! The real miracle for me was seeing God show up for my child, to see her faith grow right in front of me, and to remind me that God answers prayers.
Blessings,
Lisa
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Rooted and Grounded
Every morning as I am pouring my coffee, I look out my kitchen window to see an oak tree standing along the banks of the Opequon creek. Undoubtedly, this oak has been through many a Spring flood, as it bears two markings. One is about six feet up its trunk and the other is about seven feet up. We were told when we bought our house that these markings were from previous floods that consumed our backyard and even a cabin that once stood there. The tree, however, remains.
This oak represents what we have in Christ. As we are rooted and grounded in Christ, and we withstand the mighty floods in our lives, we stand firm. The waters subside, and we can bear the markings of those flood waters, but we still stand firm. We survive the test of the flood with hands reaching to the heavens. Our roots so firmly grounded in Christ's word and our faith, that not even the rushing waters of a Spring flood can tear us from the soil. We can feel washed out, washed up, caught in the whirlpool, saturated, or even drowned, but we hold tight with our roots. We stand firm in Christ's soil.
Sharon Doerk
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Children's Closet
Our friend, Marci Faro, is starting a Children's Closet out of her home. She wants to give children's clothes away for free to those who need it. She is accepting donations and will be passing them along to others! Currently this is an inventory of what she has: boys clothes from 18 months and up to 5T ( No shoes yet); girls clothes 0-3 up to 18 months ( small amount but if someone can use them they are welcome); girls 24 months and up to 8 (good amount) If you have any questions, have clothes to donate, or need any clothes, please contact Marci at ktlynmrgn@aol.com. Thank you Marci for wanting to help others and stepping out in faith to do it! Lisa
Thursday, March 3, 2011
The Childhood Years
We have a legend in our household. It is called "The Apricot Story". I won't go into the telling of the tale, but suffice it to say that the child involved, who is now in her twenties, knows that the story will be told without fail to any boyfriend that makes it past eight or ten dates with her. It will be told on her birthday, it will be retold to friends we haven't seen in years, and it will surely be told to her in-laws on her wedding day.
Each of our children has a history that includes many stories, and we remember them all. The oldest fell asleep on the bus every day on the way home from kindergarten. Every day , the bus driver had to carry her into the house. To this day she needs more sleep than anyone else in the family. When one of the twins was three years old, he cut all his hair off one afternoon. Over the years, as he matured and developed his interests, that haircut so long ago seems to have been an indicator of his passion for religion. The other twin ran through a plate-glass window at age four and came out the other side completely unscathed. Presently his reputation for getting himself in and out of scrapes unharmed continues. These stories are just a start. We have stories for all ages, from the tale of their birth to the Little League years to the teenage scandals, and we love to relive them. At least their dad and I do. I am not sure that they do; I have never asked them. The fact that they smile self-consciously and stare at the table, color rising up into their ears while we regale guests with these stories, has never hindered us from telling them.
The lives of our children continue to enchant us. At age four they filled us with a sense of wonder and delight. Now in their twenties, they continue to do the same. We never get bored with the stories. We never forget.
An excerpt from The Quotable Mom edited by Kate Rowinski
Each of our children has a history that includes many stories, and we remember them all. The oldest fell asleep on the bus every day on the way home from kindergarten. Every day , the bus driver had to carry her into the house. To this day she needs more sleep than anyone else in the family. When one of the twins was three years old, he cut all his hair off one afternoon. Over the years, as he matured and developed his interests, that haircut so long ago seems to have been an indicator of his passion for religion. The other twin ran through a plate-glass window at age four and came out the other side completely unscathed. Presently his reputation for getting himself in and out of scrapes unharmed continues. These stories are just a start. We have stories for all ages, from the tale of their birth to the Little League years to the teenage scandals, and we love to relive them. At least their dad and I do. I am not sure that they do; I have never asked them. The fact that they smile self-consciously and stare at the table, color rising up into their ears while we regale guests with these stories, has never hindered us from telling them.
The lives of our children continue to enchant us. At age four they filled us with a sense of wonder and delight. Now in their twenties, they continue to do the same. We never get bored with the stories. We never forget.
An excerpt from The Quotable Mom edited by Kate Rowinski
Thursday, January 6, 2011
What's your birth story?
Having a baby is the most wonderful thing a woman can do. There is nothing like the feeling of a new life growing inside of you, sensing its development as the weeks go by, marveling at its strength when it kicks in the middle of the night.
And then there is the pure pleasure of preparation. What is more satisfying than creating your new baby’s room, choosing sheets and blankets, and picking out darling little outfits? It is the one time we can indulge all our pure nesting instincts.
That’s the fun side of pregnancy. Then there’s the other side.
Sit around with a bunch of mothers, and you will hear it all. Mothers love to recite their pregnancy and birthing stories. I guess it has something to do with the fact that mothers have been to a place where only they can go. In spite of all the obvious similarities in the stories, each one still seems unique. Like veterans of an armed conflict, we are a band of sisters with one common theme. These are our battle stories.
We listen to each other in amazement, we compare notes, and we shake our heads in wonder. There is the tale of the thirty-six hour labor, the classic story of the birth in the back of the cab. Even when you feel you have heard them all, you still listen with respect. These stories are important. They need to be told.
Because I have four children of my own, have taught Lamaze classes, and have been a birth coach. I know many stories, all very different. I would love to tell them here. All of them, but of course I can’t-maybe that will be another book.
What I can tell you is that everything you have heard is true. Some women do crave pickles and ice cream; some crave tomatoes and sauerkraut. Others would kill for a steak. Some cry ten times a day; others eat twelve times. Occasionally, there is even a woman who never had a single problem, who loved every minute of the whole nine months. We know she is lying.
Most of us can say with certainty that no one has ever had bigger stretch marks. And when is comes time for delivery, in spite of all our best intentions, many rational women do want drugs. In the transitional phase of labor, we do blame our husbands for everything and say bad words we have never said before. And we even, quite rationally; refuse to have the baby, just about the time the baby is coming out.
Why do we go through these things gladly, even thankfully? For the reward at the end, of course. For the sheer bliss that comes when our baby is at last wrapped and delivered into our arms. For the moment when we can lean down and kiss that downy forehead and smell the sweetness of our newborn child.
If you are a newly expectant mother, don’t worry. Everything that is happening to you is normal. Crazy as it sounds, it all makes perfect sense. Just go with the flow. That baby is running the show. It knows what it needs and it is trusting you to get it there.
And if you are an old pro at the business of childbirth, lend an ear. Listen and sympathize; reassure your young friend. Share your own story, if you think it will help.
After all, we are all in this together.
Excerpt from The Quotable Mom edited by Kate Rowinski
What's your birth story?
Lisa
And then there is the pure pleasure of preparation. What is more satisfying than creating your new baby’s room, choosing sheets and blankets, and picking out darling little outfits? It is the one time we can indulge all our pure nesting instincts.
That’s the fun side of pregnancy. Then there’s the other side.
Sit around with a bunch of mothers, and you will hear it all. Mothers love to recite their pregnancy and birthing stories. I guess it has something to do with the fact that mothers have been to a place where only they can go. In spite of all the obvious similarities in the stories, each one still seems unique. Like veterans of an armed conflict, we are a band of sisters with one common theme. These are our battle stories.
We listen to each other in amazement, we compare notes, and we shake our heads in wonder. There is the tale of the thirty-six hour labor, the classic story of the birth in the back of the cab. Even when you feel you have heard them all, you still listen with respect. These stories are important. They need to be told.
Because I have four children of my own, have taught Lamaze classes, and have been a birth coach. I know many stories, all very different. I would love to tell them here. All of them, but of course I can’t-maybe that will be another book.
What I can tell you is that everything you have heard is true. Some women do crave pickles and ice cream; some crave tomatoes and sauerkraut. Others would kill for a steak. Some cry ten times a day; others eat twelve times. Occasionally, there is even a woman who never had a single problem, who loved every minute of the whole nine months. We know she is lying.
Most of us can say with certainty that no one has ever had bigger stretch marks. And when is comes time for delivery, in spite of all our best intentions, many rational women do want drugs. In the transitional phase of labor, we do blame our husbands for everything and say bad words we have never said before. And we even, quite rationally; refuse to have the baby, just about the time the baby is coming out.
Why do we go through these things gladly, even thankfully? For the reward at the end, of course. For the sheer bliss that comes when our baby is at last wrapped and delivered into our arms. For the moment when we can lean down and kiss that downy forehead and smell the sweetness of our newborn child.
If you are a newly expectant mother, don’t worry. Everything that is happening to you is normal. Crazy as it sounds, it all makes perfect sense. Just go with the flow. That baby is running the show. It knows what it needs and it is trusting you to get it there.
And if you are an old pro at the business of childbirth, lend an ear. Listen and sympathize; reassure your young friend. Share your own story, if you think it will help.
After all, we are all in this together.
Excerpt from The Quotable Mom edited by Kate Rowinski
What's your birth story?
Lisa
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The Jack-O-Lantern Gospel Story
A Christian tradition has started, in recent years, of telling the gospel story while carving a pumpkin. It goes something like this:
On the outside a pumpkin looks good and strong and beautiful. But, after cutting off the top, we look inside and see that it is full of slimy gunk. Similarly, on the outside, we may look good, but God can see inside our heart. "The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7b).
All of us have "gunk" inside. The Bible tells us, "There is no one righteous, not even one" (Romans 3:10). As we remove the inside of the pumpkin, we can share the Good News! The Bible teaches, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). God can make us clean on the inside! As we carve a happy face on the pumpkin, we are reminded that we should smile and be thankful for God's great goodness and love. ,he Bible says: "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, Rejoice!" (Philippians 4:5).
As we place a candle or a light inside the pumpkin, we can explain that Jesus doesn't want to leave us empty inside; He wants to fill our hearts with His love and His light. "For God, who said, `Let light shine out of darkness,' made His light shine in our hearts" (2 Corinthians 4:6a). And remember, we need to let our light shine for others to see, so they too can know Heaven's eternity. "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).
"I pray that out of his glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3:16-19).
Sincerely,
Allison Adams
On the outside a pumpkin looks good and strong and beautiful. But, after cutting off the top, we look inside and see that it is full of slimy gunk. Similarly, on the outside, we may look good, but God can see inside our heart. "The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7b).
All of us have "gunk" inside. The Bible tells us, "There is no one righteous, not even one" (Romans 3:10). As we remove the inside of the pumpkin, we can share the Good News! The Bible teaches, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). God can make us clean on the inside! As we carve a happy face on the pumpkin, we are reminded that we should smile and be thankful for God's great goodness and love. ,he Bible says: "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, Rejoice!" (Philippians 4:5).
As we place a candle or a light inside the pumpkin, we can explain that Jesus doesn't want to leave us empty inside; He wants to fill our hearts with His love and His light. "For God, who said, `Let light shine out of darkness,' made His light shine in our hearts" (2 Corinthians 4:6a). And remember, we need to let our light shine for others to see, so they too can know Heaven's eternity. "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).
"I pray that out of his glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3:16-19).
Sincerely,
Allison Adams
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Changing our childcare for the better!
We started something new for Mom's Connection~ having moms help out in childcare. This was not a decision we took lightly as we understand how much we need the break. However, the pros outweighed the cons. There's no better way to get-to-know another mom than to first meet her child(ren). We can save our budget for activities, supplies, and parties. Working together with your Care Circle is a great relationship-building activity that helps us connect with each other. You get to extend a hand of love to a child and bless a mom. Thank you to everyone for your willingness and great attitude!!
Sharon Doerk had this to say about helping in our childcare this past Tuesday:
Wanted to let you know how much fun Kim and I had providing Child Care for our first Mom's Connection meeting. I got to hang out with the 2 year olds and Kim was in the 3 year old room. A few ladies that provide child care during Sunday services showed up to help out, too. I know we are short handed this semester and each Care Circle will take turns providing child care. I had 8 toddlers in our room and most were the group that I get to see the second Sunday of every month. They are always a breeze to be around and get along great. I know most moms prefer the infant room, as they love to love on those precious babies. But, I gotta tell ya, I LOVE the 2 year olds. They slide, they play, they snack, they help pick up toys (as long as you ask them too). They also love to just sit and read a book with you and even sit on your lap and run a toy car up and down your arm.
I know we all look forward to our mom time at Mom's Connection. We all need a break. But, it is such a joy to be around these kids and to get the hugs when they are picked up by mom at the end of the meeting. It is so cool to watch them play together and figure out how to get along. It's fun to listen to them communicate in their own kid-way. The time goes by so quickly and you still get to fellowship with other moms, since we usually have 2 or more moms/helpers in each room. The strange part is: you do still get a break. For that couple of hours, you don't have to think about cleaning, cooking, laundry, or errands. You can be a kid again.
I guess I just didn't realize how much fun it would be.
Sharon Doerk had this to say about helping in our childcare this past Tuesday:
Wanted to let you know how much fun Kim and I had providing Child Care for our first Mom's Connection meeting. I got to hang out with the 2 year olds and Kim was in the 3 year old room. A few ladies that provide child care during Sunday services showed up to help out, too. I know we are short handed this semester and each Care Circle will take turns providing child care. I had 8 toddlers in our room and most were the group that I get to see the second Sunday of every month. They are always a breeze to be around and get along great. I know most moms prefer the infant room, as they love to love on those precious babies. But, I gotta tell ya, I LOVE the 2 year olds. They slide, they play, they snack, they help pick up toys (as long as you ask them too). They also love to just sit and read a book with you and even sit on your lap and run a toy car up and down your arm.
I know we all look forward to our mom time at Mom's Connection. We all need a break. But, it is such a joy to be around these kids and to get the hugs when they are picked up by mom at the end of the meeting. It is so cool to watch them play together and figure out how to get along. It's fun to listen to them communicate in their own kid-way. The time goes by so quickly and you still get to fellowship with other moms, since we usually have 2 or more moms/helpers in each room. The strange part is: you do still get a break. For that couple of hours, you don't have to think about cleaning, cooking, laundry, or errands. You can be a kid again.
I guess I just didn't realize how much fun it would be.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Remembering 9/11... Bringing our country before God...
We were all shaken on September 11, 2001. Nine years later, September 11 (this Saturday) is an ideal time to pray for God’s life and love to be revealed to our neighbors and co-workers. Unite your prayers with thousands of others across the land who will prayerwalk their neighborhood or workplace from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. For more information, see www.waymakers.org.
Prayerwalking is simply praying where we expect to see God bring forth answers to our prayers. Praying near the places where people live and work can make it easier to focus and to unite prayer on their behalf.
• Pray with others or small teams of two or three.
• No need to be demonstrative. Be on the scene without making one.
• Pray with God’s Word to unite and focus your prayers with confidence.
Here is a prayer to get you started:
Most High God, we gather to honor You with praise and to ask that
You intervene with mercy, grace and power in our land.
We approach You boldly, as a loving Father, who names and knows
every family and people of the earth. Your power is only surpassed
by Your love, proven by the sending, the death and the raising of
Your Son, Jesus, the Christ. You have entrusted the Lord Jesus with
authority to fulfill Your purpose on the earth.
We cry out to You in this day of trouble. The passing of years since
the great calamity of 911 have not reassured our trembling hearts.
We are powerless to explain the tragedy. We cannot defend ourselves
from the frightful evil we see in the hearts of all humanity.
Although nations continue to rise against one another, and although
lawless violence may increase, cooling the love of many, we ask You to
move by Your Spirit upon all who live in our land. Break the escalating
powers of hatred. Bring forth sweeping moves of chain-reaction
forgiveness. May love cover a multitude of sins. Empower Your people
to become a force of blessing among all peoples.
Cause the life of Your Spirit to flow like life-giving rivers upon the earth.
Instill courage in our hearts to pray and labor in hope for all that You
have promised to be fulfilled for Your glory. Amen.
Prayerwalking is simply praying where we expect to see God bring forth answers to our prayers. Praying near the places where people live and work can make it easier to focus and to unite prayer on their behalf.
• Pray with others or small teams of two or three.
• No need to be demonstrative. Be on the scene without making one.
• Pray with God’s Word to unite and focus your prayers with confidence.
Here is a prayer to get you started:
Most High God, we gather to honor You with praise and to ask that
You intervene with mercy, grace and power in our land.
We approach You boldly, as a loving Father, who names and knows
every family and people of the earth. Your power is only surpassed
by Your love, proven by the sending, the death and the raising of
Your Son, Jesus, the Christ. You have entrusted the Lord Jesus with
authority to fulfill Your purpose on the earth.
We cry out to You in this day of trouble. The passing of years since
the great calamity of 911 have not reassured our trembling hearts.
We are powerless to explain the tragedy. We cannot defend ourselves
from the frightful evil we see in the hearts of all humanity.
Although nations continue to rise against one another, and although
lawless violence may increase, cooling the love of many, we ask You to
move by Your Spirit upon all who live in our land. Break the escalating
powers of hatred. Bring forth sweeping moves of chain-reaction
forgiveness. May love cover a multitude of sins. Empower Your people
to become a force of blessing among all peoples.
Cause the life of Your Spirit to flow like life-giving rivers upon the earth.
Instill courage in our hearts to pray and labor in hope for all that You
have promised to be fulfilled for Your glory. Amen.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
A Chance to Give...
"Love your neighbor as yourself." Romans 13:9
Bethel Assembly of God, in being good neighbors with our friends in the Martins Landing Community, is having a Back to School Bash on Friday, August 13 at 5 PM where school supplies will be distributed along with pizza and refreshments.
In order for this to be successful, school supplies need to be purchased and donated. There are several ways we can help! You can purchase school supplies and bring them to Bethel A/G. Come out to Five Below in Martinsburg, WV this Friday evening or Saturday between 10 AM- 2 PM to purchase and donate school supplies. Or if you shop at Five Below beginning this Friday, July 16 through July 26 and present a Bethel flyer, 10% of the proceeds will be donated to purchase school supplies!
Also on Saturday, July 31 Bethel is having the Martins Landing Community a Cook Out/ Block Party beginning at 10:30 AM. If you would like to participate in either event, please contact Amy Brooks at amysstadiumshere@aol.com or call 304-279-0347.
Bethel Assembly of God, in being good neighbors with our friends in the Martins Landing Community, is having a Back to School Bash on Friday, August 13 at 5 PM where school supplies will be distributed along with pizza and refreshments.
In order for this to be successful, school supplies need to be purchased and donated. There are several ways we can help! You can purchase school supplies and bring them to Bethel A/G. Come out to Five Below in Martinsburg, WV this Friday evening or Saturday between 10 AM- 2 PM to purchase and donate school supplies. Or if you shop at Five Below beginning this Friday, July 16 through July 26 and present a Bethel flyer, 10% of the proceeds will be donated to purchase school supplies!
Also on Saturday, July 31 Bethel is having the Martins Landing Community a Cook Out/ Block Party beginning at 10:30 AM. If you would like to participate in either event, please contact Amy Brooks at amysstadiumshere@aol.com or call 304-279-0347.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Plowing the Field
"One day in early summer I walked past a lovely meadow. The grass was as soft, thick, and beautiful as an immense green Oriental rug. At one end of the meadow stood a fine old tree that served as a sanctuary for countless wild birds, whose happy songs seemed to fill the crisp, sweet air. I saw two cows who lay in the shade as the very picture of contentment. And down by the road, eye-catching dandelions mingled their gold with the royal purple of the wild violets. I leaned against the fence for a long time, feasting my hungry eyes and thinking in my soul that God never made a more beautiful place than this lovely meadow. The next day I passed that way again, and to my great dismay, the hand of the destroyer had been there. A farmer with a large tractor, which was now sitting idle in the meadow, had in one day inflicted terrible devastation. Instead of seeing the soft, green grass, I now saw the ugly, bare, and brown earth. Gone were the dandelions and the pretty violets. And instead of the multitude of singing birds, there were now only a few, who were industriously scratching the ground for worms. In my grief I said, "How could anyone spoil something so beautiful?" Then suddenly my eyes were opened, as if by some unseen hand, and I saw a vision. The vision was that of ripe corn ready for harvest. I could see the giant, heavily laden stalks in the autumn sun, and I could almost hear the music of the wind as it swept across the golden tassels. And before I realized it, the bare earth took on a splendor it did not have the day before. Oh, if only we would always catch the vision of the abundant harvest when the great Master Farmer comes, as He often does, to plow through our very souls----uprooting and turning under that which we thought most beautiful and leaving only the bare and the unlovely before our agonizing eyes." selected
Why should I be frightened and surprised by the plow of the Lord, which makes deep furrows in my soul? I know He is not some arbitrary or irrational farmer---His purpose is to yield a harvest. Samuel Rutherford
With all the changes taking place in our church this passage spoke so clearly to me about where we are. Sometimes we cling to things in our personal lives and in our church that we feel are most beautiful, just like that beautiful meadow the traveler described. But what does God, "The Master Farmer", see when he looks at that same meadow. He sees that though it is beautiful to look at it is wild, untamed, and accomplishing very little. But He also sees its great potential. That if plowed down to the fertile soil, turned over and over until it is ready, planted with new seeds, watered and cared for, one day it will produce a bountiful crop capable of feeding a multitude.
We need to allow God's Holy Spirit to expand our vision beyond what is on the surface in order to think in line with the bigger things He desires to accomplish in and through us. That starts with allowing God to do some plowing in our own souls so we are ready and prepared to share in His vision for our church and the role He desires us to play in the accomplishment of that vision. As James 3:17 & 18 says "But wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
Kim Ratcliffe
Why should I be frightened and surprised by the plow of the Lord, which makes deep furrows in my soul? I know He is not some arbitrary or irrational farmer---His purpose is to yield a harvest. Samuel Rutherford
With all the changes taking place in our church this passage spoke so clearly to me about where we are. Sometimes we cling to things in our personal lives and in our church that we feel are most beautiful, just like that beautiful meadow the traveler described. But what does God, "The Master Farmer", see when he looks at that same meadow. He sees that though it is beautiful to look at it is wild, untamed, and accomplishing very little. But He also sees its great potential. That if plowed down to the fertile soil, turned over and over until it is ready, planted with new seeds, watered and cared for, one day it will produce a bountiful crop capable of feeding a multitude.
We need to allow God's Holy Spirit to expand our vision beyond what is on the surface in order to think in line with the bigger things He desires to accomplish in and through us. That starts with allowing God to do some plowing in our own souls so we are ready and prepared to share in His vision for our church and the role He desires us to play in the accomplishment of that vision. As James 3:17 & 18 says "But wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
Kim Ratcliffe
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Lakemont Park
When I was a kid, there was one event I looked forward to every summer--Lakemont Park! My cousins and I would all get together, and make the 2 hour drive to Altoona, PA for the day. I would describe Lakemont as an amusement park for children 12 and under, although your older children will probably have fun too. It is filled with carnival rides, a water park, and one roller coaster, much like the "Comet" at Hershey Park. One of the best parts about the park, is that you can spend all day having fun there, for a fraction of the cost of other amusement park, or even the local fair! Regular admission is $9.95, but every Wednesday they discount tickets to $3! ($1 when I was a kid!). Not only that, but it is a pretty well kept secret, and I've never seen the park super busy. My last trip there was about 3 summers ago, and even then, if you had to wait in a line, it was usually less than 5 minutes. Many rides do not have a wait!
There are other things there that have a cost (go-carts, arcade, mini golf) but these activities are still reasonably priced. Unless reserved for the day, they also have pavilions available so you can bring your own lunch, or purchase one there. Parking at the park is also free. My daughter is still too young to enjoy Lakemont, but when she is older, it will no doubt be an annual event. My niece and nephew will be visiting this summer, and I can not wait to take them!
Check out their website, www.lakemontparkfun.com. It's a lot of fun, and I'm sure your kids would love it! If you go, you must ride the Toboggan--my personal favorite!
Janessa Solem
There are other things there that have a cost (go-carts, arcade, mini golf) but these activities are still reasonably priced. Unless reserved for the day, they also have pavilions available so you can bring your own lunch, or purchase one there. Parking at the park is also free. My daughter is still too young to enjoy Lakemont, but when she is older, it will no doubt be an annual event. My niece and nephew will be visiting this summer, and I can not wait to take them!
Check out their website, www.lakemontparkfun.com. It's a lot of fun, and I'm sure your kids would love it! If you go, you must ride the Toboggan--my personal favorite!
Janessa Solem
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Prioritize
"Be very careful, then, how you live- not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." Ephesians 5:15-16
As you get older, life gets more complicated. Demands on your time and attention continue to mount, and there's never enough time or energy in a day to get to everything. Do you find yourself longing for a simpler life? When all is said and done, the focus of your life should be to love God and love others. Do the things that fill your heart, life, and schedule reflect those priorities? By discovering and focusing your energy on what God considers most important, you begin to find clarity and purpose for each day of your life.
Devotional from The Busy Mom's Bible
What have you done this week that reflect the priority of loving God and/or loving others? If you have a moment, please share that with us today.
Lisa Fraley
As you get older, life gets more complicated. Demands on your time and attention continue to mount, and there's never enough time or energy in a day to get to everything. Do you find yourself longing for a simpler life? When all is said and done, the focus of your life should be to love God and love others. Do the things that fill your heart, life, and schedule reflect those priorities? By discovering and focusing your energy on what God considers most important, you begin to find clarity and purpose for each day of your life.
Devotional from The Busy Mom's Bible
What have you done this week that reflect the priority of loving God and/or loving others? If you have a moment, please share that with us today.
Lisa Fraley
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Cloth Diapers
When I first started looking at cloth diapers, I was nervous and not sure I could navigate through it. It feels like second nature now and I love doing it. It's definitely a lot easier than it looks! It's a little bit of extra work, but it feels so good knowing that I'm saving our family a lot of money. I think the diapers are much cuter than disposables anyways!
I currently use 2 types of cloth diapering systems. You will find that most people who cloth diaper have a few different types of diapers that they use. Right now I use FuzziBunz (http://www.fuzzibunz.com) when we are away from home and a mixture of FuzziBunz and cotton prefolds, with a snappy and a "Thirsties" (http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/covers.htm) or GDiaper (www.gdiaper.com)brand cover at home. The FuzziBunz are considered a pocket diaper. You can purchase FuzziBunz in sizes (XS-L) or in One-size, which grow with the child. I purchased the one-size so that it would be most economical. Normal prices on FuzziBunz One-size are $18.95-$20.95 a piece. I have always purchased mine one sale and never paid more than $16.10 a piece, but it does take some searching to find a store that has them on sale.
Currently I have 12 FuzziBunz, 12 cotton prefolds in Maggie's current size, 2 Thirsties Covers, and 1 GDiaper Cover. I can actually stretch out laundry if needed for 3 days, but normally I do it about every 36 hours. I line dry them outside then as well. Most people just try out different diapers until they find the ones that work best for them. I just happened to try FuzziBunz early on and loved them, so I've stuck with them. If anyone is interested in trying cloth diapers, I'd recommend starting out buying 3 or 4 pocket diapers, a dozen prefolds, and 2 covers. Then you can see which system you like better, and build from there.
I also purchased 4 packs of washcloths from Walmart that I use for wipes. I just use an old wipes container and get them wet with a mixture of water, baby shampoo, and baby lotion. For less than $5, I no longer have to buy wipes and I just throw them in the wash with my diapers!
If you would like to try cloth diapers I would be happy to discuss the options with you. Please contact me at janessas2@yahoo.com.
Janessa Solem
(Janessa is new to Mom's Connection and is a mother to Maggie Elaina, 2 months old.)
I currently use 2 types of cloth diapering systems. You will find that most people who cloth diaper have a few different types of diapers that they use. Right now I use FuzziBunz (http://www.fuzzibunz.com) when we are away from home and a mixture of FuzziBunz and cotton prefolds, with a snappy and a "Thirsties" (http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/covers.htm) or GDiaper (www.gdiaper.com)brand cover at home. The FuzziBunz are considered a pocket diaper. You can purchase FuzziBunz in sizes (XS-L) or in One-size, which grow with the child. I purchased the one-size so that it would be most economical. Normal prices on FuzziBunz One-size are $18.95-$20.95 a piece. I have always purchased mine one sale and never paid more than $16.10 a piece, but it does take some searching to find a store that has them on sale.
Currently I have 12 FuzziBunz, 12 cotton prefolds in Maggie's current size, 2 Thirsties Covers, and 1 GDiaper Cover. I can actually stretch out laundry if needed for 3 days, but normally I do it about every 36 hours. I line dry them outside then as well. Most people just try out different diapers until they find the ones that work best for them. I just happened to try FuzziBunz early on and loved them, so I've stuck with them. If anyone is interested in trying cloth diapers, I'd recommend starting out buying 3 or 4 pocket diapers, a dozen prefolds, and 2 covers. Then you can see which system you like better, and build from there.
I also purchased 4 packs of washcloths from Walmart that I use for wipes. I just use an old wipes container and get them wet with a mixture of water, baby shampoo, and baby lotion. For less than $5, I no longer have to buy wipes and I just throw them in the wash with my diapers!
If you would like to try cloth diapers I would be happy to discuss the options with you. Please contact me at janessas2@yahoo.com.
Janessa Solem
(Janessa is new to Mom's Connection and is a mother to Maggie Elaina, 2 months old.)
Thursday, May 20, 2010
A Rainy Day
I was sitting on my covered deck earlier in the week watching it rain. It was cool but comfortable outside and I was enjoying a time of prayer. I looked over at our gravel driveway and could see weeds poking up in front of the garage and happened to notice how very green they were. I felt that God wanted me to learn something from this so I asked Him to show me what it was.
First of all, I feel that I am someone who needs the sun. When it is rainy, especially for more than a day, I am down physically as well as in spirit. I find myself wishing it were sunny all the time. God reminded me, however, that it is the combination of the rain and the sun that make those weeds in front of my garage as well as the grass and the plants green and fertile. If it were sunny all the time the grass would become dry and brown, as opposed to the green soft carpet it was meant to be. It is the same in our daily lives. The stormy times in our lives combined with the sunny times keep us green and fertile as well.
My devotional from the other day said, "Much of the world's beauty is due to clouds. The unchanging blue of a beautiful, sunlit sky still does not compare to the glory of changing clouds. And the earth would become a wilderness if not for their ministry to us. Human life has its clouds as well. They provide us with shade, refresh us, yet sometimes cover us with the darkness of night." I may not like the rain but it serves a purpose in my life to keep me green and growing. God's word says in Isaiah 45:8 "You heavens above, rain down righteousness; let the clouds shower it down. Let the earth open wide, let salvation spring up, let righteousness grow with it; I, the Lord have created it." The Lord created the rain and everything God has created is for a good purpose even when it does not make sense to us or does not seem pleasant. So let's praise God for the rain as well as the sun and the great purpose they serve in our lives.
Love in Christ,
Kim Ratcliffe
First of all, I feel that I am someone who needs the sun. When it is rainy, especially for more than a day, I am down physically as well as in spirit. I find myself wishing it were sunny all the time. God reminded me, however, that it is the combination of the rain and the sun that make those weeds in front of my garage as well as the grass and the plants green and fertile. If it were sunny all the time the grass would become dry and brown, as opposed to the green soft carpet it was meant to be. It is the same in our daily lives. The stormy times in our lives combined with the sunny times keep us green and fertile as well.
My devotional from the other day said, "Much of the world's beauty is due to clouds. The unchanging blue of a beautiful, sunlit sky still does not compare to the glory of changing clouds. And the earth would become a wilderness if not for their ministry to us. Human life has its clouds as well. They provide us with shade, refresh us, yet sometimes cover us with the darkness of night." I may not like the rain but it serves a purpose in my life to keep me green and growing. God's word says in Isaiah 45:8 "You heavens above, rain down righteousness; let the clouds shower it down. Let the earth open wide, let salvation spring up, let righteousness grow with it; I, the Lord have created it." The Lord created the rain and everything God has created is for a good purpose even when it does not make sense to us or does not seem pleasant. So let's praise God for the rain as well as the sun and the great purpose they serve in our lives.
Love in Christ,
Kim Ratcliffe
Thursday, May 13, 2010
The Shadows of a Friend by Lorra Stinnett
Sometimes at night I sit and cry, when all else is asleep. And when I think no one is listening, I hear a voice call down upon me.
"Take my hand, and I will lead you. Let me be your friend. I'll take away your sorrows, if only you take my hand. Let go of all your troubles, say goodbye to your sins. If only you believe in Me, I will be your friend."
I look upon the shadows and see the forgiving hands of Christ the Lord, standing above me, calling me to be His friend.
So many days, weeks, and months, the years have passed and grown. That, I have forgotten those forgiving hands, calling the shadows my own. But now I realize, It's Christ the Lord, whose shadows seem to grow. "Dear God, I pray, and thank You, for never letting go."
"Take my hand, and I will follow. I'd like to be Your friend. Please take away my sorrows, please take my hand. I'm letting go of all my troubles, saying goodbye to my sins. Dear Lord, I believe in You. Forever, We will be FRIENDS!"
"Take my hand, and I will lead you. Let me be your friend. I'll take away your sorrows, if only you take my hand. Let go of all your troubles, say goodbye to your sins. If only you believe in Me, I will be your friend."
I look upon the shadows and see the forgiving hands of Christ the Lord, standing above me, calling me to be His friend.
So many days, weeks, and months, the years have passed and grown. That, I have forgotten those forgiving hands, calling the shadows my own. But now I realize, It's Christ the Lord, whose shadows seem to grow. "Dear God, I pray, and thank You, for never letting go."
"Take my hand, and I will follow. I'd like to be Your friend. Please take away my sorrows, please take my hand. I'm letting go of all my troubles, saying goodbye to my sins. Dear Lord, I believe in You. Forever, We will be FRIENDS!"
Thursday, May 6, 2010
The Possibilities are Endless
All women who come to Mom's Connection should feel welcomed, loved, appreciated, and feel like they have found a landing place among friends. Friends that make them feel like a valuable part of the group. Friends who have been through or are experiencing a lot of the same trials and triumphs. Friends that they feel comfortable enough with that they can share their thoughts and feelings and know that their friends will rejoice with them through the "ups" and pray with and for them through the "downs".
To be able to build these friendships we must first be given the opportunity. Every new lady who visits with us is a new and awesome opportunity to make a new friend. The new lady's first impression of us as a group is make or break. This impression will determine whether she comes back to join us, brings a friend or two to meet us...or whether she writes us off and moves on.
In effect, we have to "Greet Her Right the First Time". This phrase is one of the two new motto's that is going to be part of the Hospitality Team's vision for the future. The second phrase is "Hospitality is Every one's Responsibility".
Let me first explain to you what greeting her "right" looks like. Let's call our new lady "Tammy". As Tammy walks into the building she will be greeted by two ladies at the door. These ladies will then introduce themselves and introduce her to yet another lady. This lady she has just been introduced to will be her taker. Her taker is charged with making Tammy feel welcome and secure. The first part of making her feel secure is letting her know that her children will be well taken care of while she is in the topic meeting so the first place the taker will take her to is the childcare rooms. Once her children are settled in then her taker will lead her back down to the meeting room and will show her where she can get refreshments. The taker should not leave her side until she has been settled into a topic study and met her care circle leader. The entire time that the taker and Tammy are enjoying their refreshments they should be talking as well. The taker should take every opportunity to introduce her to ladies she may have something in common with. Also, Tammy should be introduced to the Hospitality Coordinator (myself) and the Care Circle Coordinator (Donnis Lloyd). I will then give Tammy a welcome bag that has a registration form, hospitality cross bookmark, recipe cards and some other goodies. The taker should make sure that she fills out this registration form because this form contains contact information for the new member. This is the only way we have of getting in contact with her and letting her know that we enjoyed her company.
It is absolutely crucial that each new lady Tammy meets greet her with a smile and a handshake. This is where our second motto for Hospitality comes in with, "Hospitality is Every one's Responsibility". Being hospitable does not end with that initial topic meeting. She will receive a phone call from either myself or Robin Coburn (our Assistant Hospitality Coordinator) and will also receive an email from me welcoming her to the group. When she returns to Mom's Connection for the meetings after that very first meeting she should be greeted as warmly as she was at the first meeting. I encourage you to write down her name when you meet her that first time so you will remember it and try to greet her using her name when she returns. This will make her feel that she made a positive impression and that you care enough to remember her. She will probably not remember the names of all the people that she was introduced to at the first meeting but she will be well on her way to getting to know us better and if we share about ourselves she'll share about herself.
In Mom's Connection no lady ever needs to feel she is alone. If a mom is sitting by herself and nobody is taking an interest in her then we have failed as her friends and as a community. Our mission statement for Mom's Connection states that we are a ministry to nurture all mothers and we are to reach out to each other with friendship, encouragement and support. If she is being offered friendship, encouragement and support then she will, in turn, offer that to other ladies that may come in to visit with us for their first topic meeting and our group will continue to grow. Then we will reach our ultimate goal and reach as many women as we possibly can and connect them to God, grow them in faith and then we will see them and their families become participants in His kingdom.
I challenge you at the next topic meeting and during our summer events to either sit beside or strike up a conversation with another mom that is either new to the group or that maybe you don't know that much about. The possibilities for awesome new friendships are endless!
Tina Burton
To be able to build these friendships we must first be given the opportunity. Every new lady who visits with us is a new and awesome opportunity to make a new friend. The new lady's first impression of us as a group is make or break. This impression will determine whether she comes back to join us, brings a friend or two to meet us...or whether she writes us off and moves on.
In effect, we have to "Greet Her Right the First Time". This phrase is one of the two new motto's that is going to be part of the Hospitality Team's vision for the future. The second phrase is "Hospitality is Every one's Responsibility".
Let me first explain to you what greeting her "right" looks like. Let's call our new lady "Tammy". As Tammy walks into the building she will be greeted by two ladies at the door. These ladies will then introduce themselves and introduce her to yet another lady. This lady she has just been introduced to will be her taker. Her taker is charged with making Tammy feel welcome and secure. The first part of making her feel secure is letting her know that her children will be well taken care of while she is in the topic meeting so the first place the taker will take her to is the childcare rooms. Once her children are settled in then her taker will lead her back down to the meeting room and will show her where she can get refreshments. The taker should not leave her side until she has been settled into a topic study and met her care circle leader. The entire time that the taker and Tammy are enjoying their refreshments they should be talking as well. The taker should take every opportunity to introduce her to ladies she may have something in common with. Also, Tammy should be introduced to the Hospitality Coordinator (myself) and the Care Circle Coordinator (Donnis Lloyd). I will then give Tammy a welcome bag that has a registration form, hospitality cross bookmark, recipe cards and some other goodies. The taker should make sure that she fills out this registration form because this form contains contact information for the new member. This is the only way we have of getting in contact with her and letting her know that we enjoyed her company.
It is absolutely crucial that each new lady Tammy meets greet her with a smile and a handshake. This is where our second motto for Hospitality comes in with, "Hospitality is Every one's Responsibility". Being hospitable does not end with that initial topic meeting. She will receive a phone call from either myself or Robin Coburn (our Assistant Hospitality Coordinator) and will also receive an email from me welcoming her to the group. When she returns to Mom's Connection for the meetings after that very first meeting she should be greeted as warmly as she was at the first meeting. I encourage you to write down her name when you meet her that first time so you will remember it and try to greet her using her name when she returns. This will make her feel that she made a positive impression and that you care enough to remember her. She will probably not remember the names of all the people that she was introduced to at the first meeting but she will be well on her way to getting to know us better and if we share about ourselves she'll share about herself.
In Mom's Connection no lady ever needs to feel she is alone. If a mom is sitting by herself and nobody is taking an interest in her then we have failed as her friends and as a community. Our mission statement for Mom's Connection states that we are a ministry to nurture all mothers and we are to reach out to each other with friendship, encouragement and support. If she is being offered friendship, encouragement and support then she will, in turn, offer that to other ladies that may come in to visit with us for their first topic meeting and our group will continue to grow. Then we will reach our ultimate goal and reach as many women as we possibly can and connect them to God, grow them in faith and then we will see them and their families become participants in His kingdom.
I challenge you at the next topic meeting and during our summer events to either sit beside or strike up a conversation with another mom that is either new to the group or that maybe you don't know that much about. The possibilities for awesome new friendships are endless!
Tina Burton
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)