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,