White as Snow

The rain came down and washed the snow away. It's amazing how quickly it goes. But I was struck with how thankful I am that the blood which makes me whiter than the snow cannot be washed away. The landscape turns from pristinely white to mottled browns and greens, but as for me, I've gone from lifeless drab to snowy white.

Lord Jesus, for this I most humbly entreat,
I wait, blessèd Lord, at Thy crucified feet.
By faith, for my cleansing, I see Thy blood flow,
Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
James L. Nicholson,

.....Love, Jesus

Dear Beloved,

I so look forward to this time with you each year. The years seem to go by faster and faster.

I've been thinking about words quite a bit recently. That may sound strange, but I think you'll understand as I explain. See, words are important to me....My words have been recorded for you, I am the Word, the way by which you find me. By My word, grace came down to a lowly stable that you may receive a gift not earned or deserved, but my demostration of love toward you.

My hope is that you too will think about the importance of words. It is by words that you come to me, through your prayers. Words express your thoughts and feelings. Oh, how I hope you will take time to find Me in My words this new year.

But something very delicate and dear to me are also effected by words; the hearts of My children that I hold in My hands. I see the other side of words, the side that many can't see, not with human eyes, the way words penetrate to the core of the hearts I hold so close to Me.

I know you have a desire to please me and be with me. And as I want to be with you, I want to be with others also. You have the great privilege of being able to carry Me to all those around you. Thorugh you, I can touch the hearts of many. So remember this: "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how to answer each one."

All My love poured out on you,

Jesus

Welcome a New Blog Sister

One of my dearest friends has now joined the blog world. I'm sure you will enjoy getting to know her family. Her quick wit and warm charm will surely touch your heart. She has been such a faithful friend over the years and now I'm so happy to share her with the world. So head over soon to meet Lisa @ Saner Moments.

Fellowshaking?

It's fun to create new words by combining two to make it shorter. Can you guess the one in the title? It's what you get when you spend a day of fellowshipping and baking with your sister! I think I'll have to work on that one.

After several hours of mixing, talking, snacking, sampling, rolling, dipping and baking, we could see the fruits of our labors: peanut butter balls, candy cane cookies, and Russian tea cakes. Yummy! Though we'll each do more on our own, it gets us a huge head start.

Most every year we stick to this tradition. Last year, we weren't able to do it and we all, kids included, missed it immensely. Our other sister often joins us, but not this year. She's not much for baking, but cleaning! Can't beat that, can you? A sister that comes just to visit and clean up behind you?! We are blessed! You can see why she's so dearly missed when she can't make it. :)

Now I can't speak on my sister's behalf, but I'm partial to the fellowship over the baking.....and I do like to bake. The spirit of giving lights the fire under this festive day, but truth be told, most of it's given to all the wrong places. Ahhhh, a great day leads to good sleep.

Out on the Town

Though I'm not the greatest photographer, they're still the best looking kids out on the town tonight. A dear friend treated them to a local church production of "A Christmas Carol". They were so excited to get dudded up and even ironed their own clothes! I love seeing how their styles are shaping and I must say that so far I'm very pleased.

They've just arrived home (shortly after 11:00 p.m.) and are bouncing off the walls with excitement. What a blessing. Time to scurry them off to bed and then myself.

As a child, I would be so excited to rediscover all those ornaments that had been tucked away for so many months. Each one had some special story or memory waiting to come to life again.

The kids have received lots of ornaments over the years, but this year I realized I didn'tever hear their stories. They are always excited to get them out and they have favorites, but I wanted to hear their stoires. Sometimes you just have to get the ball rolling. Amazing how a simple question can let the flood gates of memories open.

Boy 1: A glass santa ornament given by our sweet old neighbor lady (a.k.a. The Cookie Lady). We were returning something to her that we had borrowed when she surprised the kids with the ornament. We have moved away from her now, but we will always have precious memories of her love and kindness.

Boy 2: The "ZuZu Ornament". Every year, we enjoy watching "It's a Wonderful Life" together as a family. A couple years ago, we were able to meet "ZuZu" at a local Christmas fair. She had all sorts of memorabilia from the movie. After much consideration, we chose "ZuZu's Petals", a picture of her and Jimmy Stewart on her bed with the petals. If you've seen the movie, you'll know what I'm talking about.

Girl 1: A frosted glass ballerina. I knew immediately why. It was a gift from someone who came into our lives with great hope, but now only faded memories of what could have been linger in this little girl's heart. Tears were shared and arms embraced. Bonds were strengthened and walls came down.

Christmas is the most wonderful time of year.

The Clock Turns Back

The usual hustle and bustle of the day was joined by stuffy, gunky noses, sore throats and the like. We've been incredibly blessed by our Lord the last few years in avoiding major illnesses. I'm grateful that even now, thus far, it isn't unbearable. We'll see what the morning brings as they all slumber now.

Though it's been awhile, it didn't take long to get into the nurse-for-a-day rhythm. Drink this juice, take this vitamin C, drink this tea, lay down and rest, etc. It brings such a sense of mommyness, a break from the regular routine, a chance to nurse a little more than nurture. At their ages, I'll take these moments because for a short time the world stops spinning and it's like they are babes in your arms again. Those sweet faces with big doe eyes look at you and say, "Mommy, I need you. Make it better." Yep. You can keep on spinning world, but today the clock's turning back in my home. Tomorrow will come soon enough when they think they don't need me to "make it better".

Lights So Bright

I love white Christmas lights. I'd string them through every inch of my house, but I think I'll wait to do that when I become an old cat lady with 18 cats running around and sharing tuna fish with them. It's all about self-control, right?

Tonight, losing myself in the twinkling lights on the tree, I was filled with warmth and joy. Have you ever noticed that? How the beauty of lights can have that affect on us? Have you ever wondered why? Plain and simple, it's Jesus.

John 1:4-9 "In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. He was not that Light, but [was sent] to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world."

Even for those who have yet found the way to let Him shine in them. He's there, waiting to be ignited in each of us.

Early Evening Delight

Two warm drinks: $7
One Mint Brownie: $2
Christmas background music: $0
Cozy atmosphere: Free
One-on-one time with hubby: Priceless.

Our aim is to set this time aside weekly. Do we always make it? No. Do we cherish it when we do? You betcha. Deep conversation every time? No. Case in point, tonight we talked about Christmas gifts for the kids. Did we make headway? I don't think so. Guess we'll have to do it again. Too bad.

Simple Pleasures = Big Smiles

It's the simple things that most often make us smile and I've had my fair share of them recently.

A rareity happened here the other night.....the house to myself (okay, plus two dogs and a cat). A nearly perfect "alone" evening was planned. The fire was roaring, bible study materials positioned near the chair in front of the fire, but a Peppermint Mocha Twist from Starbuck's was missing. Off I went to complete the scene. Have you seen a Peppermint Mocha Twist in a mug (no lid, please)? I can't help but giggle every time I see it. It's piled high with peppermint whipped cream and shaved choclate sprinkled on top. Return home, nestle into chair, bible in lap, classical music in the background........ahhhhh, bliss.

After a few hours, the family arrives, low and behold, they've brought me a treat! One taste and I'm hooked! It's pepperminty, a little bit chocolatey....It's Christmas in a Cup! You must go to your local DQ and get this blizzard. If I had the authority, I would guarantee a smile or you get your money back.

Yesterday was packed with things to do in preparation for Thanksgiving. Tired and head pounding in the afternoon, I had put off the idea of baking anything for our women's bible study that evening. But I just couldn't stand it. At the last minute, I turned to my trusty EDF (Everyday Foods Magazine) and found a quick recipe. Choclate Gingerbread Bars. Seemed like an odd combination, but I'm here to tell you, it's heavenly, batter or bars.

So see, it's the simple things. Things that make me feel like a kid again. Things that scream, "Joy"! May you find your simple things that bring big smiles.

Magnified

On Thursday, the kids and I made a trip to my grandmother's house. I've recently committed myself to visiting with her at least once a month (she's about an hour away). When you're 96 years old, you just don't know how many days are left. I don't want to regret not spending that time with her. Plus, can you imagine the wealth of knowledge she has?! There aren't many kids in this world that can say they sat down and had chats with their 96 year old great-grandmother. And these aren't trips to a sad, lonely nursing home. This amazing woman still lives on her own, drives (though very limited, thankfully), sews, cooks, bakes, entertains, etc. Her mind is incredibly clear and can engage in great conversation. Tomorrow, she will have a full day of lefse making/training with my sister and niece(uff-da, for those of you non-Norwegians, it is a delectable flatbread made from potatoes! Yum Yum).


I truly am amazed by this woman. She has a great desire to live to be 100 and she's sooooo close. She has blessed so many people in her life time that I pray the Lord will bless her in return with this request. I could go on and on about her accomplishments, but the bottom-line is that the Lord has truly been magnified through her. Thank you, Grandma, for being such an inspiration!


And while Grandma magnifies the Lord, others of us chose to magnify ourselves. See for yourself! Ahhh, the fun we have at Grandma's. Good thing she wasn't in the room because I'm quite sure her hearing aids would have been making all kinds of screeching noises as we laughed in hysterics.

Bless the Little Children

Time goes by and our kids grow up. Somewhere in there may be days filled with frustration, angst, and exasperation, but just a few, right?

Yesterday, I had the special treat of slipping back in time about 5 years. My son found our old camcorder with a tape in it. We've had some bumps in the road of parenting. Most of us have, but some are bigger than others. But to go back and see the sweetness and innocence of young children spawned renewed strength in hope and perseverance for our purpose in parenting. Whatever the road ahead has for us, we know a firm foundation has been laid. We continue on in our efforts to train them up, holding fast to the promise of the Word that when they are old, they shall not depart from it. Knees worn-out along the way are an added necessity!

Bless the little children for they remind us of days gone by and the hope of tomorrow.

Riding on the Clouds

As much as I try to deny it, I am much more a night owl than early bird. I'm sure that each affords it blessings and curses, but last night brought a bounty of blessing.

It was somewhere around midnight. Finally heading to bed after having some post-church wind-down time. Okay, I'll confess, a repeat of Jon & Kate Plus 8 in Hawaii kept me up! I love that family. Anyway, Little Miss Sadie Retriever had to go outside. I opened the slider for her to slip out only to be welcomed by the most invitingly warm breeze that sweetly sweep me up in its peace. Up on the edge of the hill, I could see small trees and bushes just ever-so-gently swaying with the breeze. The sky was nearly clear with just a few low, fluffy clouds and stars twinkling in the distance. The evidence of my Creator was swirling about me. I would have been happy to stand there all night. The clouds were moving by quickly, so low that I could have grabbed one and gone for a ride. Awestruck, I thought about getting Tom out of bed, but I knew he needed his rest. In complete peace and wonderment the thought came to me, "Lord, are you coming on those clouds tonight to get us?" Words cannot express the sheer excitement yet total peace that enveloped me.

As I got into bed, I opened the curtain so that I could see the sky as I lay there. Jesus obviously didn't come last night, but I wouldn't pass on the opportunity to have my spirit refreshed in such a tangible way. What joy in knowing that He is coming back and it may be SOON! Jesus Himself may not have been riding on those clouds last night, but His Spirit certainly touched my mine.

My Thoughts, Her Words

Like many of you, thoughts and emotions have been swirling around in my head since our elections this week. While I take time to sort it out before I post anything, head over to The Preacher's Wife to read her post titled, "It's What We Do With Disappointment". She's honest with a fresh perspective, and gets us back on track. Enjoy and I'll talk to you soon!

Father Knows Best....Even on Election Day

The hearts of many tremble in anticipation of today's outcome. But we must remember that our country is in God's hand. He knows all, He knows best, and He does best. That may be a tough thing to understand if things don't turn out the way we think they should. God, in all his perfect power and knowledge, knows the best thing for us. We can choose to see it as a blessing who ever comes out on top.

The book of Daniel has great encouragement. We see the story of at least two kings, Nebuchadnezzar and Darius, who were not what we would call "good" kings. But God changed their hearts in amazing ways. He knows the hearts of man and whether they will be influenced by Him. And if they arent'?.....He still knows best and we're that much closer to being with Him in eternity.

The picture above is courtesy of The Cupcakery. Don't they look delicious? And you can order online too!

The Blog World Wins

Yes, it's true! My Honey has succumbed to the blog world. I am so excited for him and hope you will all pop over to check it out.

The Sound Word

Still Alive

Everyone is still alive after our mystery dinner last night. It actually turned out pretty good and the kids liked it. That must mean something.

I floured and browned the stew meat just as you would for stew so the flour would thicken it. Added water just to cover meat, dumped in a can of tomatoes, and seasoned it with taco seasoning and some dry salsa mix. Onions are essential, but I forgot to add them! I simmered it for several hours. The meat was plenty tender. I would have liked the sauce to be a bit more enchilada-y, but the pantry was limited.

We slopped it on a whole-wheat tortilla with corn, cheese, and sour cream. Black beans would have been yummy also, but I was out. So now you have one more option for stew meat.

Emergency Meal

Seems as though our freezer mysteriously came unplugged. Of course, no one knows quite how it happened, but nonetheless, I'm now left with a large batch of stew meat that needs to be cooked up.



Therein lies the problem. We've had soups and stews a lot lately so an alternative is needed. I'm shooting for some kind of taco concoction...sort of like a shredded beef thing. But will I be able to get the stew meat tender enough in time? A prayer for a meal blessing will be going through the wire. Check back to see how it turned out!

Compassion

You'll see that I've recently added a button thing-y (like that?) to my sidebar for Compassion International. We have been so blessed by this ministry and the opportunity to help a child that is so far away. Compassion really loves these kids and provides so much for them. Things like: food, clothing, and school. But to me, the most important part of this ministry is that they whole-heartedly share the gospel of Jesus Christ with them. What good are any of the things above, if in the end, you are still lost.

Our family has sponsored a girl, Julisa, for about 2 1/2 years. She lives in Mexico and is now 8 years old. Our church has sponsored a boy, Kepher, in Tanzania, Africa for about 4 years. How awesome it has been to see him grow.

So, please take a moment to pray for these two beautiful children and then ask the Lord if sponsoring a child is the direction He has for you. If you feel a tug, visit Compassion's Website. You will be blessed!

Twig & Feather

I couldn't wait to tell you about a new website just for us women who love the home! Please check out Twig & Feather and tell your friends about it.

Created by someone that I think is a dear along with a few of her friends, be sure to check back often as it is in its beginning stages. Be encouraged, take away tidbits, and share what you know.

Hope to see you there!

One of Those Moments

I know you've had them. That moment when you are beside yourself as you come to some kind of deeper realization. You're almost left breathless and filled with wonder. Okay, there's probably that momentary thought of, "Duh! Why didn't I see that before?" But it's fleeting in comparison.

Last night, I had such a moment while leading our women's bible study. We were reviewing an introduction to the book of Daniel. As I was sharing, I talked about Daniel having the Spirit of God living in him and that this was known by others around him. I mentioned that it's the same Spirit living in us as did Daniel and other mighty men of the bible. As the words are coming out of my mouth, I'm simultaneously realizing the impact of this! It was as if I were split in two, one half talking to the ladies and the other secretly experiencing this truth in a new way. Goose bumps! I pray that I was able to convey the importance and excitement in realizing we have the same power of the Spirit of God in us that was in Daniel as he stood before a king that would be happy to lop his head off and faced the lions!

So praise be to God in heaven who knows when we most need one of those moments!

Koinonia

Sunday. We all love the word. Sunday drives. Sunday dinners. Sunday picnics. Sunday papers. Sunday schools. It evokes all that is familiar and comfortable. Whether you attend church or not, Sunday is a day most of us treasure.

My Sunday often starts off a bit crazy. The building that we hold our church services in usually needs to be cleaned after a raucous party by renters the evening before. Depending on the size of the party, I rise between 5 and 6 a.m. Then throw in set-up for church. I'll admit, it can be exhausting. But in spite of this, I still look forward to the day. I run home for cleanup (easy since we live next door!) and head back to begin greeting saintly old friends and whatever new friends the Lord sends our way.

Before long, we settle into our seats. The music starts and we set aside the world to spend time in the presence of our heavenly Father. Now we're primed and ready for our feast of the Word. Rustling of pages, sound of pens scribbling, maybe a baby in the background. Heads nod in agreement, faces grimace as the Lord gently corrects. One last song and the fellowship begins again. Laughter, tears, and prayers are shared. Bliss.

But on one Sunday a month, we're blessed with even more! Potluck! (or Pot-faith as some parishoners like to say.) Wow! Now we get good food and more laughter, story sharing, and relationship building. Our cup overfloweth. Thank you, Lord.

The rest of the day is spent relaxing at home. Great day.

Your turn! Share your Sunday!

The Giver

My kids and I recently finished the audio version of the fiction book "The Giver". After an iffy start, all of us were enthralled by this story. It promoted great conversation and moral evaluation. Thoroughly thought-provoking!

The setting basically takes place in a utopia-type environment that the "Counsel" of "The Community" have created. "The Community" is a completely different world than what we know and its fascinating to learn more of the details as the story progresses.

In efforts to create a safe environment, the right to choose is completely eliminated. What would life really be like without choice? Given a great gift of seeing what it's like to know choice, Jonas, the main character, is faced with determining if the joy and blessings of choice are worth the pain that also comes with this freedom.

Read (or listen) to this book! Come back and tell me what you think. (Disclaimer: There was one section we fast-forwarded through that talked about "stirrings" in a 12 year old, but it also became a teaching moment!)

Days Gone By

Can't believe that Mother's Day was the last time I posted. I envy those ladies who have made the committment to blog regularly. I'll keep trying.

Just getting things wrapped up for the school year. Our favorite end-of-school activity is to attend the local homeschool convention. It's already here this week.

I've actually been able to enjoy doing some crafting and managed to get a lot of reading done in the last couple of weeks. Our garden is finally growing, but slowly with the cold and rain. Feels more like fall or late winter around here.

So for now, enjoy the video below and see some of the things that are holding my interest.

Tribute

The blog world is filled with well wishes for Mother's Day and rightfully so. Though I do wish all of you to have an incredibly blessed day tomorrow, I thought I'd use my space to honor my mom....besides she's probably my most faithful reader!

Mom, I hope you have a wonderful day and I wish the miles weren't so great between us. Through the years, we've had our ups and downs, but I'm thankful to always be able to call you Mom. Give yourself a hug from me and I'll talk to you on the phone tomorrow.

Love,

Sweet Dreams

Early tomorrow morning, Miss K. and I will pick up our newest family member. Her name is Sadie and she has the most beautiful blonde hair. How fun it will be to put bows in hair again and brush it till is shines like the sun. Of course, this is all only under the assumption that our little miss golden retriever will amuse us.

But for now, sweet dreams, Miss K. You'll be a great mommy.

3.57

Catchy title, huh? No, there's no super spiritual meaning or even a bible address. It's what I paid for gas today! Just about a week and a half ago, it was $3.48.

I've heard (or read) from people telling the collective "us" to stop whining about gas prices as long as we are still eating out 3 or 4 times a week, etc. I find such comments, especially when seasoned with little grace, to be offensive. Have these people been to the gas station or grocery store lately? How can anyone say things aren't that bad!

I met an elderly couple at a gas station about a month ago. They shared that they only go out when absolutely necessary. After putting $60 in his truck, it still wasn't full. We fail to think of all those the rising prices effect. This couple were becoming shut-ins before their time. And that's not the only pinch they feel.

Many of us have created habits, a certain level of lifestyle. Not anything lavish, but free. Free to buy that book without thinking twice about it kind of free. If we make sacrifices, we should be okay. Generations before us know what it is to sacrifice, but we often don't. But those sacrifices aren't easy! We're breaking habits. Even when we're happy to make sacrifices where possible, it's not an overnight event. There's much to learn, remember, etc. What we need is grace. Grace given as we see others trying to cut corners. Encouragemet. Point them in a better direction. Remind them of their goals, etc.

Where do you feel the pinch? In what ways will you be learning new "saving" skills?

Remember, when your friend blows it and goes out to eat, again, after swearing it off, don't chastise her. Love her, help her, learn together, be accountable to one another. Don't write her off because she's having a hard time remembering all the new tips to saving money!

Renaming Earth Day

With last week bringing this year's "Earth Day" to a conclusion, I've had a lot of thoughts rambling around in regards to this holiday.

"Green" is good. I don't think that many of us would deny that trying to live more green is a good thing. I especially like to learn healthier and cleaner ways to feed my family. There is so much to learn and it can be overwhelming.

As you start to dive into this new realm, you will find that running into beliefs that completely contradict the gospel of Jesus, your relationship with Jesus, and just plain weird stuff is unavoidable. Mysticism, new age, buddhism, hinduism, etc. are all things that often get wrapped up into "green" living. The creation is worshipped and not its Creator.

Having an understanding that God has placed us as stewards over the earth is drawing many Christians to seek to live a greener life. I pray for us all that we won't be drawn into these opposing beliefs as we seek to do a good thing. Stay rooted! Always looking up!

To help us keep the focus where it belongs, shouldn't we change the name of Earth Day? How about Creator Celebration Day? Or Good Steward's Day? What would you change it to? Let me know!

Check out Green Smoothie Girl's website* for great info about healthy eating. Be sure to watch her demonstration video for her smoothie. Our family has been drinking one everyday for the last week! Robyn's blog has great tips on eating healthy while on vacation.

*As I don't know Robyn personally, I don't know what her religious/spiritual beliefs are, however, I didn't find anything other than helpful info. on good health.

Apronista

You may notice the new Apronista button on my sidebar. It's a wonderfully fun website, if you like aprons that is. Such great inspiration. Many of the women are very talented and have made gorgeous aprons. Me, just a wannabe for the most part. Picked my lone apron up at a local street fair last summer (my daughter has a matching one!), but today it is joined by a vintage apron I purchased at a little local antique shop. It's adorable! Got the bug now.

My plan is to use vintage aprons as art on a wall in my dining room. Thought they would look cozy around my rustic star (see "Across the Table post for picture).

That's all that's rattling around in my brain now. Not too deep.

Wander Yonder

Each week, I'm hoping to make a post that will highlight a blog that I've been enjoying. Be sure to check back each week to find more inspiration through the blog world.

So to start it all off, please "Wander Yonder" and check out Cheri's blog. You're sure to find a blessing in her candid style. Enjoy!

And on the 7th day....

....we created! Blasphemy? No! Just a wonderful Sunday evening sitting with the kids and a few cans of play dough. Yep, a great recipe for a good, relaxing time.

As I sat there with my kids, I had the realization that I just don't do that kind of thing often enough. Life gets "busy" (a word easily thrown around), but I've been contemplating cultures that live life at a slower pace, even some Americans have mastered it, yet accomplish much.

Do we have to give into the American speed of life? Is it possible to live here and not give into the craze? Can we avoid being trampled if we slow down? YES!!! I truly believe it is. This is my quest. I believe it isn't so much our schedule, though they can often be trimmed back, but more of our heart, mind and organization! Uggghhh, the "O" word. I'll let you know how it goes!

Meanwhile, I'll relish in the relaxing Sabbath we shared with family, friends, play dough, and the lessons He continues to teach.






Must note, someone mixed pink into my green, hence the "chicken pox" spot!

How Much More

No surprise, but God is so good. And He took time to prove it to us yet again this morning.....

A couple weeks ago, we decided to add a couple of bird feeders to the back yard to help draw in some life. Since there are no trees to hang them on, we bought one of those wrought iron shepherd's hooks. As adorable as they are, hanging out there in the corner of the yard, they have been left vacant. We watched and watched, but nothing!

Finally, last night at dinner, we spotted a black-capped chickadee feasting! We were so excited. So this morning, during our devotion and prayers time, I thanked God for bringing us the little gift last night. Then, I asked for Him to send more that we may enjoy His handiwork.

While bustling about getting breakfast ready, I spotted a beautiful little bird that I belive to be a Western Blue Bird! (A new spotting for me). Within two minutes, we saw 4 birds, all different types, flitting around our feeders! Then, it dawned on me...I had asked God for this just an hour before. Incredible. How great, the Father's love for us!

Immediately, I thought of the scripture that tells us that if our Heavenly Father cares for even these little birds, how much more He cares for us. Such a message couldn't be more timely for our family and I'm convinced it's a message sent directly from the hands of my Father on the wings of our little birds.

Sonja

Surrendered to the Sun

The other day, we were blessed to have some warmer sunshine flooding in through the dining room window. It felt so good, especially after a bout with a cold spell. As you can see, Fat Cat Jack wasted no time staking his claim to the warmest spot in the house. Just as a side note, I can hardly pick this cat up anymore with just one hand! Definitely a two-hand task.

As I looked at my adorable, yet fat, fluffy and shedding cat, I was struck by his complete surrender to the sun with all its comfort and warmth. Surrender to the Son? What a great picture of our lives being given over to Jesus, the only begotten Son! He gives warmth, comfort, security, rest and by His light we are led.

May your day find you soaking up the warmth of the Son!

Blessings,

Across the Table

Last night, I was blessed to have my table surrounded by beautiful women who love the Lord. It was the last night of our current bible study so we celebrated with a meal together. It was a joy to be able to serve them. The conversation was lighthearted and the food was good. Hubby and kiddos didn't mind as they got a night out for dinner and a trip to the bookstore!

MENU

Chicken with Avocado Salsa (compliments of Everyday Foods Magazine)
Red Quinoa Salad (made with red onions, red peppers, pear and apple, and hazelnuts)
Asparagus
Black Bean Corn Chips
Brown Rice Pudding for dessert!

How can you help but to picture Jesus and His disciples sitting around a table sharing a meal. I pray it won't be long before the Lord sees fit to surround my square table with whomever He sends my way.

May we all be seeking to fill our homes with the presence of His people; serving them with grace.