Encouragement and Challenge

"...that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith." Romans 1:12

This past weekend I had dinner with 2 of my closest friends to celebrate our birthdays. We had an amazing meal at a local restaurant, but the company was even better. There is something special about people who you have known and walked with for a really long time (and in this case I mean a decade or two). The conversation is easy, the laughs are big and without even realizing it, challenging encouragement happens too. As were discussing which shows we are watching these days and also a little politics I mentioned I like to watch a certain news program every day. One of my friends asked when do I have the time? The other swiftly replied in a teasing tone, "When she should be in bed reading her bible. That would help her sleep!" This is the where the greatness of long time friendship comes into play. While giving me a good natured hard time, she also gave me a much needed challenge about how I'm spending my time (which is very precious these days). Later on in the evening my other friend was talking about the reminding voice she hears (e.g. her mom) when things we don't like to do need to be done and asking whose voice we hear at those moments. The rebel in me chooses to ignore that voice and probably too often. Once again, a great challenge to reflect on my time spent without the sting of rebuke. I dearly love these two ladies and am very grateful for the role they take in my life!

Between my dinner conversation, a little one getting mildly injured and a really good sermon on Sunday, I've had a lot to reflect on which is never a bad thing. :)

Pause Button

Waiting, waiting, waiting...I feel like life is in limbo while I wait. I'm not sure how to proceed or what to do.

2 Corinthians 10:5
"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. "

Her little black ballet flats

They look so precious on her feet for school. The way she poses and admires herself in the mirror. I just want to eat her up! And then the cute tomboy comes out in her and they return home all scuffed up.

And then I'm grateful I got them on clearance and have black shoe polish.

As I was saying...

I *really* love sweet tiny gherkin pickles. ;) And why are recipes containing condensed soup so ridiculously good while being so bad for you?

(this is me pretending that I didn't ignore my blog for the past two months)

 Hope you (whoever you are) had a great summer! I will hopefully be more consistent again!

Tantrum

You know it's been a rough day when your almost five year old says, "Mommy, I'm glad you are over your temper tantrum and being mad." :o/ Me too, buddy. Me too... That statement was followed by the best hugs and kisses though and an apology from Mommy.

My Little Mommy

That was and is my name for her. She was my mentor and second mom for the past 19ish years and she lost her battle with cancer last Sunday night. I got to spend time at my bestie's house tonight (who is my little mommy's actual daughter). My little mommy's husband and twin sister are staying there and they were working on the eulogy and picking out songs for the slide show. I got to be there, be a part of the process of remembering and honoring her. It was good and where I was supposed to be. I miss her. She made a tremendous impact on my life and the lives of countless others. I am weary and cannot find the words at this time to express how much I love her. Miss you so much Little Mommy and can't wait until I get to see you again!!

Vocabulary

Driving home from preschool the other day, my four year old is talking about when we get home and specifically says, "Mommy, when Caleb gets into mischief..." Not trouble, mind you, but mischief. I thought it was so cute I just about died laughing.

Hoping your day is mischief free!