This week is Teacher's and Nurse's Appreciation week! Do not let this week go by (or year) without thanking those in these occupations. You know these are not easy jobs, and what they get paid isn't nearly as much as they should. They do things you wouldn't normally like to do and yet they have hearts for people like no other. Yes I know there are exceptions to this as a whole but I can tell you that I've had nurses in my life that have been there for me in ways I could have never imagined. I had an amazing nurse there for me during my labor/delivery with Joshua which lasted over 26 hours long. She encouraged me, guided me and cared for us that whole time and is still in our lives today! I got a massive blood clot in my whole left leg 10 days after having Joshua and ended up back in the hospital for a week. I was not allowed to shower and of course not something that set well with me. I had a nurse actually come in and wash my hair for me while I stayed in that bed. She didn't have to do that yet she saw how sad I was and did what she thought would put a smile back on my face! I've had many other amazing nurses in my life but those two stand out to me. Shout out to my old roomie, Kristen who has worked so hard to become a nurse all while being a wife and mom to two boys! This weekend her dreams come true and she deserves it!
Not only have I had amazing teachers through out my whole life my children have been incredibly blessed with the teachers they have had as well. I am not the parent that requests teachers. I pray and ask God to put my kids in the class He thinks would be best for them. I do not know the teachers (especially in our new town) but I trust that He knows who would be the best fit teaching my children. They might only be 4 1/2 and almost 8 years old but every year God has shown me He has put them in the exact classes they needed to be in. Again, I might not feel this way every year but so far I've been thankful for those loving, caring teachers who push my children to be the best they can all while letting them be children. I could not have asked for better better Pre-schools then the ones my two kids attending. Little Footprings Learning Center and Long Hill Chapel Preschool set a foundation in my kids that I will forever be grateful for. My kids have a relationship with Jesus and I know their teachers in these preschools had a hand in planting that seed.
Some of these relationships have exceeded the dr's offices or classrooms. God put these blessings in our lives exactly when we need them and continues to do so. If you are a teacher or nurse I want to say a huge THANK YOU! I know your jobs aren't easy. People don't always show their appreciation but there are more people that do and I hope they show it this week as well as all year long!
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Friday, March 8, 2013
Fantastic GIVEAWAY from Fabulous Fashions 4 Sensible Style
I'M BACK!! It has been awhile since I have blogged. A lot has changed in our lives over here but to start I wanted to share this fantastic giveaway going on! Click below to find out more and see how you can enter :-)
http://fabulousfashions4sensiblestyle.blogspot.com/
http://fabulousfashions4sensiblestyle.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Prayers of a child
Often we hear people say things like "you are in my thoughts and prayers" or "I'm praying for you" when someone is going through a hard time. How often though do we actually stop and pray for that person and what they are dealing with? I'm guilty too so don't get me wrong here. I try my best to stop at that moment I say it or write it and pray but not always the case. Lately, I've been watching my two kids in this area and their little hearts bring me back to just how I need to be more on point so to speak with praying when I say I will be or see the need.
One of Joshua's PE teachers at school got very hurt, needed surgery and will be out for the school year. This isn't even his teacher for the class but he knew about the injury. One morning Joshua came over to me to and said " You know mom, last night I stayed up late after you put me to bed and do you want to know why?" Immediately I thought, he was playing with Lego's or some sort of toy but replied with "what" and waiting for his response. I was shocked with his answer. "I was praying for Mr. Newell. I know he is very hurt and I just want him to get better." Never would I have thought my almost 7 year old would be staying up late b/c his heart was heavy for a teacher at his school. It amazes me that after a long exhausting day this is what my son is doing late at night. Melts my heart..I can't imagine what it did to God's!
Then yesterday Joshua got hurt in PE class at school and ended up getting a fat lip. He's completely fine and his school nurse even had him call me after it happened to tell me the whole story along with that he was okay. When he got in the car after school, he showed Gianna and do you know what she did...she immediately closed her eyes, folded her hands, bowed her head and prayed for God to make Joshua's lip all better. She is 3 1/2! How innocent and sweet she is to show her brother love in such a way.Again, in awe of the actions of my little ones.
My kids seem to not think twice about praying. These are just two of many examples I could give you. They hear or see a need and they just DO! I'm ashamed to say that I don't stop immediately with that friend that is hurting and pray or get on my knees when I know I need to. I'm not saying I don't pray, that isn't what I'm talking about here. I'm talking about praying as our first response..not a last resort. No person will ever give you the response you need like you will get from our Lord. You can call your mom, your sister/brother, friend and get an immediate response for whatever you are asking for but will you get THE ANSWERS you need from Him that way? I've learned recently that not only do we have to just stop and pray but we have to be still and listen for those answers.
You know the saying "Stop, Drop and Roll"...Yea, I think it's time we "Stop, Drop and Pray"
One of Joshua's PE teachers at school got very hurt, needed surgery and will be out for the school year. This isn't even his teacher for the class but he knew about the injury. One morning Joshua came over to me to and said " You know mom, last night I stayed up late after you put me to bed and do you want to know why?" Immediately I thought, he was playing with Lego's or some sort of toy but replied with "what" and waiting for his response. I was shocked with his answer. "I was praying for Mr. Newell. I know he is very hurt and I just want him to get better." Never would I have thought my almost 7 year old would be staying up late b/c his heart was heavy for a teacher at his school. It amazes me that after a long exhausting day this is what my son is doing late at night. Melts my heart..I can't imagine what it did to God's!
Then yesterday Joshua got hurt in PE class at school and ended up getting a fat lip. He's completely fine and his school nurse even had him call me after it happened to tell me the whole story along with that he was okay. When he got in the car after school, he showed Gianna and do you know what she did...she immediately closed her eyes, folded her hands, bowed her head and prayed for God to make Joshua's lip all better. She is 3 1/2! How innocent and sweet she is to show her brother love in such a way.Again, in awe of the actions of my little ones.
My kids seem to not think twice about praying. These are just two of many examples I could give you. They hear or see a need and they just DO! I'm ashamed to say that I don't stop immediately with that friend that is hurting and pray or get on my knees when I know I need to. I'm not saying I don't pray, that isn't what I'm talking about here. I'm talking about praying as our first response..not a last resort. No person will ever give you the response you need like you will get from our Lord. You can call your mom, your sister/brother, friend and get an immediate response for whatever you are asking for but will you get THE ANSWERS you need from Him that way? I've learned recently that not only do we have to just stop and pray but we have to be still and listen for those answers.
You know the saying "Stop, Drop and Roll"...Yea, I think it's time we "Stop, Drop and Pray"
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
An email that blessed this Momma :-)
Hi Everyone,
My apologies for being MIA again. I'm going to try really hard to not let so much time go in between my posts. With that being said I'm going to jump right on in to today's post. So for a while now my husband and I have been trying to figure out ways to help our son Joshua focus better at school. He will be 7 in a couple months but even as a baby the kid has always been very energetic. He is a very passionate boy but has tons of energy and sometimes that could work against him especially in school. Of course through the years we have heard terms like ADD and ADHD but we were warned by professionals that people are going to try and say he has that because of his energy. He is a boy and lets face it, most little boys don't sit still and read books all day. He wants to play, build Lego's, and play outside for hours. When we got to the elementary school level we were told that Joshua did have trouble focusing at times in subjects that he did not love. For instance, reading. That did not come easy to him and he is a lot like his momma. If he couldn't get it quickly he just got frustrated. I could totally relate, as I watched him over time I had to remind myself to pray and encourage him through it.
In the meantime we started to go to a Chiropractor to get regular adjustments for our overall health and for Joshua b/c I had been told to try it for his focus/concentration. After we had been going for a couple weeks I mentioned to our Chiropractor about Joshua's behavior at school and asked if there was anything we could do. Naturally. My husband and I were pretty adamant about trying everything we could before Joshua would ever go on medication. I'm NOT saying that is the right choice for everyone. Every parent and child are their own unit and need to make those decisions themselves. We just knew in our hearts Joshua was not going to just be put on meds for an easy solution to focusing. So we spoke to our Chiropractor about it and the first thing he asked was about his diet. Joshua is a very picky eater so I normally have to sneak in the fruits and veggies in foods he would normally eat. Like cauliflower in his scrambled eggs. He asked if Joshua ate/drank a lot of dairy. Interesting I thought in my mind, Yes his diet is about 75% dairy b/c it happens to be things he likes. That was the first problem...dairy! We were advised to take dairy out of his diet. I didn't even hesitate on this b/c I had heard someone else say it to me. The next day all the milk/cheese/eggs were finished and the entire family switched to Almond Milk and dairy free diets. I was shocked at how on board everyone was. My kids actually LOVE almond milk and don't even think twice about the switch. I'm not saying my kids won't have pizza on occasion or other foods with dairy but they won't be eating dairy on a daily basis anymore. We also have been juicing. It is incredible to see the juices my kids will drink. Joshua will drink apple/carrot juice right from the juicer each morning and head out the door. He is not even hungry like he used to be mid morning. His teacher has told me that. So we have now been doing this for about 2 months.
In addition to switching his diet we have also put him in Tae Kwon Doe..also recommended from another parent who's son is very similar to Joshua. This has been one of the best decisions we could have made. He loves it and does so well in class. He is focused, respectful and continues to want to try his best so he can test for his next belt. It is amazing what it has done for his confidence to. Amazing.
I write all this to tell you that this morning I received and email from one of his teachers. His reading teacher which to be honest when I saw who it was from I was nervous. She told me she has seen an incredible improvement in Joshua's behavior and focus. His entire attitude towards learning has changed and she wants to know all the specifics to what we have been doing the last 2 months with him. She thinks it is something she could share with other parents so that they could give it a try. I jumped all over that b/c I would love to help other parents the way our Chiropractor and others have helped us. I was beyond thrilled to get this email today and I could not wait to forward it to our Chiropractor and call my husband at work. God just showed me in that email to keep pressing forward and do what we need to for Joshua..and Gianna for that matter.
I knew these changes would take effort on my part. Getting up extra early to juice for him, or running around more than normal to Tae Kwon Do 4 times a week..not b/c he has to but b/c he wants to go every chance his class is offered. For my child I'm willing to do anything. It is a blessing to have a husband who is right on board with all this and willing to do extra to make sure we do all we can for our kids. We have all noticed a huge difference in Joshua and I'm so thankful I reached out to ask others and got the help I did.
It is not easy raising children and it is not easy getting emails or calls every other week informing you that your child is struggling in certain areas. I knew Joshua could do the work but he needed to believe in himself and just focus.
We pray with Joshua and he falls asleep to Christian music every night. Those words soak in his brain as he falls asleep and he wakes up singing such joyous words. His whole attitude has changed. For this momma it has been a huge blessing to watching this transformation.
My mind is all over the place but hopefully you were able to understand. If you want to know more specifics to what we have been doing or have a child you would like me to pray for please do not hesitate to let me know. I am here to pray for you and for them! Try to not to get frustrated with your child. They are not meant to be cookie cutter and God made them exactly the way they are. Love them for who they are and just pray!
Thank you for reading and sharing in my excitement that came in that one simple email...changed my entire day :-)
Love and prayers,
Darea
My apologies for being MIA again. I'm going to try really hard to not let so much time go in between my posts. With that being said I'm going to jump right on in to today's post. So for a while now my husband and I have been trying to figure out ways to help our son Joshua focus better at school. He will be 7 in a couple months but even as a baby the kid has always been very energetic. He is a very passionate boy but has tons of energy and sometimes that could work against him especially in school. Of course through the years we have heard terms like ADD and ADHD but we were warned by professionals that people are going to try and say he has that because of his energy. He is a boy and lets face it, most little boys don't sit still and read books all day. He wants to play, build Lego's, and play outside for hours. When we got to the elementary school level we were told that Joshua did have trouble focusing at times in subjects that he did not love. For instance, reading. That did not come easy to him and he is a lot like his momma. If he couldn't get it quickly he just got frustrated. I could totally relate, as I watched him over time I had to remind myself to pray and encourage him through it.
In the meantime we started to go to a Chiropractor to get regular adjustments for our overall health and for Joshua b/c I had been told to try it for his focus/concentration. After we had been going for a couple weeks I mentioned to our Chiropractor about Joshua's behavior at school and asked if there was anything we could do. Naturally. My husband and I were pretty adamant about trying everything we could before Joshua would ever go on medication. I'm NOT saying that is the right choice for everyone. Every parent and child are their own unit and need to make those decisions themselves. We just knew in our hearts Joshua was not going to just be put on meds for an easy solution to focusing. So we spoke to our Chiropractor about it and the first thing he asked was about his diet. Joshua is a very picky eater so I normally have to sneak in the fruits and veggies in foods he would normally eat. Like cauliflower in his scrambled eggs. He asked if Joshua ate/drank a lot of dairy. Interesting I thought in my mind, Yes his diet is about 75% dairy b/c it happens to be things he likes. That was the first problem...dairy! We were advised to take dairy out of his diet. I didn't even hesitate on this b/c I had heard someone else say it to me. The next day all the milk/cheese/eggs were finished and the entire family switched to Almond Milk and dairy free diets. I was shocked at how on board everyone was. My kids actually LOVE almond milk and don't even think twice about the switch. I'm not saying my kids won't have pizza on occasion or other foods with dairy but they won't be eating dairy on a daily basis anymore. We also have been juicing. It is incredible to see the juices my kids will drink. Joshua will drink apple/carrot juice right from the juicer each morning and head out the door. He is not even hungry like he used to be mid morning. His teacher has told me that. So we have now been doing this for about 2 months.
In addition to switching his diet we have also put him in Tae Kwon Doe..also recommended from another parent who's son is very similar to Joshua. This has been one of the best decisions we could have made. He loves it and does so well in class. He is focused, respectful and continues to want to try his best so he can test for his next belt. It is amazing what it has done for his confidence to. Amazing.
I write all this to tell you that this morning I received and email from one of his teachers. His reading teacher which to be honest when I saw who it was from I was nervous. She told me she has seen an incredible improvement in Joshua's behavior and focus. His entire attitude towards learning has changed and she wants to know all the specifics to what we have been doing the last 2 months with him. She thinks it is something she could share with other parents so that they could give it a try. I jumped all over that b/c I would love to help other parents the way our Chiropractor and others have helped us. I was beyond thrilled to get this email today and I could not wait to forward it to our Chiropractor and call my husband at work. God just showed me in that email to keep pressing forward and do what we need to for Joshua..and Gianna for that matter.
I knew these changes would take effort on my part. Getting up extra early to juice for him, or running around more than normal to Tae Kwon Do 4 times a week..not b/c he has to but b/c he wants to go every chance his class is offered. For my child I'm willing to do anything. It is a blessing to have a husband who is right on board with all this and willing to do extra to make sure we do all we can for our kids. We have all noticed a huge difference in Joshua and I'm so thankful I reached out to ask others and got the help I did.
It is not easy raising children and it is not easy getting emails or calls every other week informing you that your child is struggling in certain areas. I knew Joshua could do the work but he needed to believe in himself and just focus.
We pray with Joshua and he falls asleep to Christian music every night. Those words soak in his brain as he falls asleep and he wakes up singing such joyous words. His whole attitude has changed. For this momma it has been a huge blessing to watching this transformation.
My mind is all over the place but hopefully you were able to understand. If you want to know more specifics to what we have been doing or have a child you would like me to pray for please do not hesitate to let me know. I am here to pray for you and for them! Try to not to get frustrated with your child. They are not meant to be cookie cutter and God made them exactly the way they are. Love them for who they are and just pray!
Thank you for reading and sharing in my excitement that came in that one simple email...changed my entire day :-)
Love and prayers,
Darea
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
When I say, "I am a Christian" Poem By Carol Wimmer
Love this poem...had to share with you! There are many "Christians" our there, so just to clarify on the kind I am..all about Jesus, serving Him, loving others and NEVER coming off as though I'm better then anyone else. We are all sinners...I am saved by His grace and just striving to be a better me every day.
Poem
When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not shouting, “I’ve been saved!”
I’m whispering, “I get lost!
That’s why I chose this way”
I’m not shouting, “I’ve been saved!”
I’m whispering, “I get lost!
That’s why I chose this way”
When I say, “I am a Christian”
I don’t speak with human pride
I’m confessing that I stumble -
needing God to be my guide
I don’t speak with human pride
I’m confessing that I stumble -
needing God to be my guide
When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not trying to be strong
I’m professing that I’m weak
and pray for strength to carry on
I’m not trying to be strong
I’m professing that I’m weak
and pray for strength to carry on
When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not bragging of success
I’m admitting that I’ve failed
and cannot ever pay the debt
I’m not bragging of success
I’m admitting that I’ve failed
and cannot ever pay the debt
When I say, “I am a Christian”
I don’t think I know it all
I submit to my confusion
asking humbly to be taught
I don’t think I know it all
I submit to my confusion
asking humbly to be taught
When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible
but God believes I’m worth it
I’m not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible
but God believes I’m worth it
When I say, “I am a Christian”
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache
which is why I seek His name
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache
which is why I seek His name
When I say, “I am a Christian”
I do not wish to judge
I have no authority
I only know I’m loved
I do not wish to judge
I have no authority
I only know I’m loved
Copyright 1988 Carol Wimmer
Friday, December 23, 2011
Letter from Jesus...
There are so many things I've wanted to write about but when I read this earlier today I knew it was a must to re-post on the blog and let it speak for itself :-)
Letter from Jesus about Christmas:
"It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season.
How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most
easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.
Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.
If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it:
1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.
2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
3. Instead of writing the President complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up... It will be nice hearing from you again.
4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.
5 Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.
6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference.
7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word.
8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary-- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.
9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.
10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.
Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember"
I LOVE YOU,
JESUS
Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.
Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.
If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it:
1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.
2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
3. Instead of writing the President complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up... It will be nice hearing from you again.
4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.
5 Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.
6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference.
7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word.
8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary-- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.
9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.
10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.
Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember"
I LOVE YOU,
JESUS
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
I'm back :-)
I apologize for not blogging in months!! Life has been great here in the Hastie household. We had a wonderful summer and fall filled with spending time with family, friends and creating memories that will last forever!
Sept came and was filled with some craziness. You know how that goes, orientations and open house for the pre-schooler, then getting the elementary school child back in the groove of homework, going to sleep early and getting ready on time. It is all fabulous but I feel like after September we could all use a vacation, lol. The end of October brought lots of excitement. My mom got married and it happened to occur on the only snow storm of the season so far! Definitely a wedding we will all never forget :-)
Here we are now, December and so excited for Christmas. My kids are having so much fun this year celebrating all aspects of this season. From decorating the tree, house, singing Christmas songs, playing with their Little People's Nativity set, and telling everyone about baby Jesus. My son was going around his room this morning looking for this one toy car that he just received for Christmas from family this past weekend. He said he wanted to give it to one of his friends at school. My reply was "Joshua, why are you doing that, you just got it." And shame on me b/c his response was "Mom this is what Christmas is all about. Giving to others and telling them about Jesus' birthday." His heart amazes me every single day. He might be one of the most energetic 6 year old's I know but his heart is so pure and his actions are so sweet. I think this time of year is amazing if we take the time to enjoy it and not run around all the time. Sometimes it takes a child to bring it all back into perspective for us. It is about loving others, spending time with people and celebrating the birth of Christ! I'm excited to bake a cake with my kids this weekend for Jesus' birthday. Every year when we wake up Christmas morning we come down to the kitchen, light the candles and sing Happy Birthday, Jesus! We have been doing it since Joshua was born and he looks forward to it every year. He gets that it's not about presents (although, don't get me wrong he loves receiving them) eating candy canes, or even Santa. Often we forget what it's really about. This past Sunday Joshua sang with some of the children in our church and every time I hear the words I get tears in my eyes. Here is part of it
So whatever you are doing or celebrating this season, take the time to look around you, enjoy the moment and if the one gift you wanted to buy hasn't been don't worry..time spent with the ones you love means more then any gift you could possibly buy in a store! If you don't think so just ask any 30 year old what they got for Christmas when they were 8...most likely won't remember but they will remember if Mommy or Daddy (or whoever was their guardian) was spending time with them while they were growing up!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Love and prayers,
Darea
Sept came and was filled with some craziness. You know how that goes, orientations and open house for the pre-schooler, then getting the elementary school child back in the groove of homework, going to sleep early and getting ready on time. It is all fabulous but I feel like after September we could all use a vacation, lol. The end of October brought lots of excitement. My mom got married and it happened to occur on the only snow storm of the season so far! Definitely a wedding we will all never forget :-)
Here we are now, December and so excited for Christmas. My kids are having so much fun this year celebrating all aspects of this season. From decorating the tree, house, singing Christmas songs, playing with their Little People's Nativity set, and telling everyone about baby Jesus. My son was going around his room this morning looking for this one toy car that he just received for Christmas from family this past weekend. He said he wanted to give it to one of his friends at school. My reply was "Joshua, why are you doing that, you just got it." And shame on me b/c his response was "Mom this is what Christmas is all about. Giving to others and telling them about Jesus' birthday." His heart amazes me every single day. He might be one of the most energetic 6 year old's I know but his heart is so pure and his actions are so sweet. I think this time of year is amazing if we take the time to enjoy it and not run around all the time. Sometimes it takes a child to bring it all back into perspective for us. It is about loving others, spending time with people and celebrating the birth of Christ! I'm excited to bake a cake with my kids this weekend for Jesus' birthday. Every year when we wake up Christmas morning we come down to the kitchen, light the candles and sing Happy Birthday, Jesus! We have been doing it since Joshua was born and he looks forward to it every year. He gets that it's not about presents (although, don't get me wrong he loves receiving them) eating candy canes, or even Santa. Often we forget what it's really about. This past Sunday Joshua sang with some of the children in our church and every time I hear the words I get tears in my eyes. Here is part of it
Such sacrifice and love! What a blessing that God made a way for you and me to the cross...I know I don't deserve the forgiveness and grace that I get every single day from Him. As I think about the hard times I have faced whether in the last year or in life in general nothing will ever compare to what Jesus went through on that cross for me!
So whatever you are doing or celebrating this season, take the time to look around you, enjoy the moment and if the one gift you wanted to buy hasn't been don't worry..time spent with the ones you love means more then any gift you could possibly buy in a store! If you don't think so just ask any 30 year old what they got for Christmas when they were 8...most likely won't remember but they will remember if Mommy or Daddy (or whoever was their guardian) was spending time with them while they were growing up!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Love and prayers,
Darea
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