Lessons from TobyMac and the Backwards Dress

I am at the computer this morning writing by the light of the Christmas tree and the garland draped across my mantle.  It is definitely therapy for my soul.  Merry Christmas y'all!

We took the girls to their first concert a few weeks ago.  We went with our closest friends and their kiddos to see TobyMac, Mandisa and Jamie Grace. You will often find us shaking our booties to Mandisa's "Good Morning Song." It was one of the first times I felt like we could go as a family and not leave the littles at home.  Anna heard the concert advertised on the radio and begged me to go.  Leading up to the concert, Aubrey asked me everyday if the people will sing, "This Girl is on Fire."   Ummm no.  Sorry to disappoint little one.

 I have to say I was lost in thought sitting in my seat listening to the blaring music and staring at flashing lights.  The joy that washed over me watching my girls sing and have the time of their lives was priceless.  TobyMac did a lot of Christian Rap music, right up Anna's alley. Not so much my cup of tea.

However,  TobyMac sang a song called, "Speak Life." My daughters know every word. The message in that song hit me like a ton of bricks and I haven't been able to get it out of my head ever since.  Here is the chorus:

Though it's crazy, amazing
We can turn a heart with the words we say.
Mountains crumble with every syllable.
Hope can live or die

So speak Life, speak Life.
To the deadest darkest night.
Speak life, speak Life.
When the sun won't shine and you don't know why.
Look into the eyes of the brokenhearted;
Watch them come alive as soon as you speak hope,
You speak love, you speak...

It got me thinking.  Do I speak life to those I come in contact with?  Do I speak life to my children?, my husband?

When I was growing up we always teased my mother about "momisms"  Momisms are little phrases that my mother would say to us when we were struggling, complaining, or just in everyday conversation.  Her top two had to be "Bloom where you are planted" and "Love is a choice, happiness is an ability and God is the source of both."  I would roll my eyes at her.  But now I use her wisdom with my own daughters.

So I say all this to say,  "Speak Life" is the perfect momism!  When my kids say something mean or are fighting I just ask them,  "Are you speaking life?"  They too, roll their eyes at me, but it usually is effective at least for a brief moment.  Another one of my momisms is,  "If you can't be kind, be quiet."  I'm developing my own momism arsenal.  So thanks to TobyMac for helping with that.  If I'm being honest, Speak Life has been running through my head as I encounter the rude check out lady at Wal Mart this Christmas;) And also, as I work on the my major spiritual project for 2013 holding my tongue!

 

I got in the car Sunday to head to church with all four girls in tow.  I was flying solo because Ben had to work. I was feeling puffed up because I had gotten four daughters ready. You see, I run a full service hair salon out of my bathroom in the morning.   They all looked beautiful and we managed to have a "scream free" morning and leave our house on time.  As my car rolled to a stop at the stop sign on my street, I noticed my dress felt uncomfortable.  I glanced down to see the tag was in the front.  I had my dress on backwards.  I sighed, sat there for a moment and smiled. Thoughts running through my head:   Do I try and make it to the church bathroom?   I can't go home.  Everyone  will be out of their seatbelts and have their shoes off.  I will just pull into the school parking lot a street over and turn my dress around.   So, I pull in and take my cardigan off and try and contort my body in the small space between the steering  wheel and the seat to get my dress fixed. No cigar. I had to actually open the car door, stand up and turn it around.  All the while, I hear comments from the peanut gallery in the backseat like, "Well this is awkward. This is definitely one for the books Mom!" I'm sure the whole scene is on some elementary school security camera.   When I start to get a little big headed about what the awesome mom I am,  God always reminds me...  "You don't accomplish anything without My help."   It's funny, God usually reminds me through  wardrobe malfunctions.  I cannot forget the time I walked thorough every hall of Hibernia Baptist Church dropping off my kiddos with my dress tucked in my underwear. 

So ladies, you may think other mothers APPEAR to have it together but they probably have their dress on backwards. 

Folks, have a wonderful week and speak life!

Lines

Looking in the mirror,  I can see the lines of life creasing the skin around my eyes and covering my brow.  I used to say I didn't mind getting older.  But as I age, I can see the trials of life like a road map on my face.  Pridefully, it bothers me.  However, I know deep down that they are what's left of walking some pretty rocky roads.  Roads I wouldn't trade for anything now.  Roads that brought me to my knees, knowing there was nowhere else to look, but up. I had to look up for peace and comfort and to press on and take another step.

I can honestly say, those lines are not without a purpose.  They are present because of the lessons I needed to learn in this life.  The trials I had to walk through to bring me to where I am now. One might call it Refiner's fire.  When we endure trials it's our chance to glorify Christ in how we handle situations.  Did God know they would happen?  Yep.  He knew He would have to carry me at times.  He was there. At every step. He showed up through His living word, kind people and in times there was no other explanation other than Christ. Things that happened that were too bizarre to be a coincidence.  He knew I would walk away closer to Him and with new found wisdom I could share with others.

These hard times changed my heart and my life.  They have given me an eternal perspective. I've never doubted God's love for me. But I have been angry at Him for my circumstances. His peace surpassed my understanding many times. I have learned about kindness, gentleness and love through hardship.  I guess that is what James was talking about when he said, "Consider trials of many kind pure joy." (James 1:2-4)

Today, I have pure joy because of the lessons I have learned, the person I have become in Christ and the relationship with my Savior that I cannot live without.  I now have a testimony to share that is full of God's grace and His provisions for me. I have a duty to encourage others.

So, thank you, infertility, international adoption, divorced parents, marriage struggles, parenting struggles, almost losing a child...I could go on.  But I won't.  All part of the beautiful tapestry God is weaving.  I am only a small part. I have faith in His plan when I cannot see. The struggles are not over yet.  Not until I face the gates of Heaven one day.  My prayer is as long as I walk through this life people see Christ in me.

May I be aware of those struggling this Christmas season. May I be a steady hand to hold pointing them to the only one who matters.

So, I guess I will have to take the wrinkles with the wisdom and thank my God.

Hmmm, I'll take the wrinkles with the wisdom.  That would be a good quote for a necklace or a art print huh?  Maybe Anna can design it for me.

Can anyone recommend a good eye cream for my stocking stuffer this year....

There have been many crazy blessings along the journey.  Here are 4 of them.

Devotions and the Smell

What a sweet, sweet day.  Blue skies and sun shining.  Perfect weather.  The Kneisley Nest spent this beautiful holiday at the zoo.  I kept joking all day, "Why do I need to leave my house to visit the zoo?  I live in a zoo."  We had a wonderful day in awe of God's creations.  I mean seriously, have you ever looked at an ant eater or a giraffe?  And people think animals were created by the big bang theory.  Yeah right. Nevertheless, I digress.

 I had to write a blog tonight to capture the most precious memory with my girls.  Our devotion time.  Honestly, I was on my A game tonight.  Probably, because we didn't have homework and we skipped soccer practice (shhh don't tell). But all my angelic little cherubs were bathed and in pj's early this evening.  Perfect time to do a little devotion.  Normally, we are rushing in later than I would like after soccer. The kids don't move fast enough for my liking. (Shocker do kids know how to hurry?  After my fourth I have decided no!) I lose patience and the last thing that crosses my mind before everyone is tucked into bed is sitting down to do a devotion. 

 I have been convicted about our rushed devotion time or lack thereof and I vowed to do better.  So tonight we began.  We all gathered in the little's room. I turned off the overhead light and filled the room with a soft glow from the lamp.  The girls waited in eager anticipation. Something about 4 blondies sitting across from me with wet heads, freshly bathed in pink jammies.  One of those mental pictures that will be forever etched in my mind. We read about giving Jesus our day and I asked them what they thought that meant.  I always feel a little proud when they "get it."  I almost expect them not to get it and when they do... wow!  What a feeling.  My girls answered spot on.  Then we talked about lying.   We had a little incident today with Anna and lying.   Finally, I asked the girls to pick a specific person to pray for tonight.  We all joined hands and prayed out loud.

Aubrey of course spent ten minutes "praying" about all the reasons people shouldn't lie. We all smirked and peered out from under our half closed eyelids, trying not to laugh.  She is learning. Brynn bent down and kissed her on top of her head, as if to say "good job."

My Brynn.  What a precious soul.  She prayed for all the "veterinarians" today who serve our country and protect our freedom.  Yes. God bless those "veterinarians!"  Thankful for them.

Now about the lie.

There has been an smell in Anna's and Brynn's room for 3 days now.  I have pulled out beds, taken up the area rug,  looked under chairs, smelled curtains and sprayed enough air freshener to kill us all.  I couldn't tell what the smell was or where it was coming from.  It was getting worse. I questioned the girls about it multiple times.  Of course "nobody" (do y'all know him?  He lives at our house) knew anything about it. Finally tonight, I got on my hands and knees and just started smelling everything in the girls room from the floor up.  It was quite a sight.  I was almost afraid to locate whatever was making the fowl smell.

 Finally, I found it.  In a green box on top of Anna's desk was a clam. A clam all wrapped in toilet paper tucked nicely in her box.  We  told her when she found it in the lake last week not to bring it in the house. She agreed.  She disobeyed and she knew all along it was tucked in her box and told me otherwise.  She didn't want me to dispose of the smelly sea creature. Boy, that girl really needs a pet.  I had an inkling that she may know what the smell was when she took it upon herself to spray the Febreeze yesterday.

Tonight, the clam went bye-bye.  Maybe in a few days the smell will too. It was a very teachable moment about disobedience and not telling the truth.  But seriously, my daughter had a freaking dead clam in her room.  I can't make this stuff up.  Never a dull moment in this household.

I chuckle already talking to Ben about it.  He just shakes his head.

So in love with my little, clam hoarding, "veterinarian" loving,  God seeking little girls. Thankful God chose me.

Hope your day was filled with special memories. Mine was filled with memories I will never forget!

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. John 8:32

Temporary

The message that rings in my heart and my head after church this past week is:   this world is temporary.  It was explained, that if you stay in a hotel room for 2 days, there is no way you would take time, fix things up, paint and redecorate just to leave in a couple days.  Our time on Earth is temporary.  Are we eternally minded?

It made me think of all the things I spend time on that don't really amount to a hill of beans. 

I just feel overwhelmingly, this life is about people.  Meeting people's needs.  Encouragement. Showing kindness.  It's about family. Bible study.  Fellowship with friends and praying for people. This life is about being refined to be more like Christ.  This is the cake, the rest is frosting.

When I stand before Christ one day (and I get goosebumps even typing that). I want Him to say, "You were about MY people.  You cared. You possessed a heart for others."  I can't even fathom.  And though I fall way short, that is my prayer. 

Today,  I spent the most precious day with Aubrey and some sweet mamas and their littles. As we talked, it hit me, our kiddos are being molded into the next generation of people who care.   We want them to have a heart for the Lord and to care for others.  Shaping their hearts and minds is no small task and of utmost importance.

We laughed at lunch discussing embarrassing mommy moments, parenting failures and temper tantrums.   This is the hard work.  And though it may not seem like it now, it will pay off in the long run.  God sees our hearts, even when we are in the trenches, digging and digging and digging. Heck, sometimes we are buried.

Before a beautiful rose bush can ever be planted, a hole has to be prepared.  It's hard work digging that hole.  But the bush needs a firm foundation in order to be planted.  It needs care and pruning.  It requires the perfect soil and constant watering.  It may take a while, but one day out  of nowhere we will see that all the hard has work paid off.  There is a beautiful rose in bloom.  The next day there may be another. Sometimes the weather gets harsh and we must cover and protect our plant.  Maybe some of the blooms die off and come back. The God who created rose bushes also created our children.  Children need constant tender loving care. It's worth the time.  He created Moms with hearts as big as Texas with the capacity to love like nobody else in this world.  We love through trials and hardship. Mothers are perfect for the task God has put before them. But we must rely on Him for guidance. 

 This world is just a holding place. Spend time on things that matter. Our time here is just the preview before the movie.  The best movie anyone could ever imagine.  Don't get caught up in the preview.  What hope this gives me.

So, while you are here, be an example and love people. Care about others. Meet needs. Offer a helping hand.  Most of the time it will be a sacrifice on your part...  do it anyway.  Train your children to do the same, to be Christ to this lost and lonely world.

Sweet mothers.  Keep it up. A great mother knows sacrifice.  However, there is not a more important person to shepherd than that little one standing at your feet, looking up to you, to point the way.   Are you looking up to get direction from Jesus?  The only way. 

 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18.

Who am I?

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about myself.  What I like.  What I dislike.  About my spiritual life and my marriage. I have been wondering if I am self righteous.  I have even been pondering about trivial things like my face. Am I  starting to look old?  Midlife crisis? Nope.  But I do admit sometimes I get lost in the humongous responsibility of my family and forget about myself.

Sometimes, I am awfully hard on myself.  This week I talked to God a lot about "me." The resounding answer I heard was, " I created you just the way you are."

On that note who am I?

I’m an honest person.  I have high expectations and can be judgmental.  I love to cook for people.  I hate crafts and don't have a creative bone in my body. I’m courageous and determined.  If you tell me I can't do something it makes me want to do it more.  I am loyal to a fault. I have a huge heart and I feel peoples pain, deeply.  It's a blessing and a curse. It takes a lot to make me mad and I give lots of second chances.  I fiercely love my family.  I have a heart for orphans and adoption. I hate to clean, but one of my favorite things is a clean house. My favorite spot is the beach.  It calms me.  I love to shop. I’m a great listener, but I really struggle with keeping my mouth shut at times.  My faith is everything to me. I want to share it with the world and don't want to come across as self righteous in the process. Still trying to figure that out. I love people. I feel God has given me the gift of encouragement.  I am a sweet tea and fast food addict. I feel my number one job, currently, is to be a good wife and mother.  Someday, I want to write a book or be a realtor.  I am totally transparent.  That is why I write this blog and admit my shortcomings publicly.  I hate facades.  I talk to God throughout my days.  I couldn't live without a relationship with Him and He adores me.

God created me just the way I am and He loves me.  (relaxed sigh)

Life is about embracing all your gifts and faults and using talents God gave you. Be who He made you to be.

In this world of blogs, Internet, Pinterest, and Facebook we are constantly exposed to other's lives.  We read about what they think and how they parent and how they dress and what they eat or don't eat.  It sometimes leaves me wondering.   I question myself.  Who am I? What do I believe? What do I like? Am I good enough?  Media isn't necessarily a bad thing if you can stay grounded in the process. We have to weed through it all.  Know who you are.  Know who you are in Christ.

Christ gave me that big heart that feels every ones pain for a reason. To benefit His Kingdom.  He made me fiercely loyal.  He gave me a passion for adoption.  He gave me a love of sweet tea.  Who knows, maybe someday I will meet someone in the McDonald's check out line that He wants me to be in contact with.

I want to love myself.  With all my quirks, and imperfections because God loved me first.  He has a purpose for me. But God also gave me trials and four children and difficult people in my life to help me rub off my rough edges.  To make me more dependent on Him.

On that note.  I did buy ridiculously expensive (for me anyway) skin care products this week because I came to the conclusion that I need them. 

Who are you?  God loves you.

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.  Jeremiah 1:4-5

I am familiar with all your ways.  Psalm 139:3

For you are my treasured possession Exodus 19:5

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:14

The Baby

The last little bird will leave the nest.  3 days a week. Something about the baby.  The last one.

My Kneisley Nest. It hangs in a frame on my wall.  One of my favorite things.

This time next week I will have all four children in school.  It's weird, really. I have thought about this moment many times, especially on hard days.  I have wished for it on days I thought would never end and now it is here.  People keep high fiving me that I will have all my kiddos in school.  It is all so  new.  It will be good.  I'm a little sad.  It's like reading the last chapter of a great book you've cozied up to for some time.  You know there is a sequel but you haven't read it yet and you fear...it might not be as good.

I've had littles under my feet at home for as long as I can remember.  There have been no peaceful shopping trips, no pedicures and no solo visits to the gym.  Coffee dates  have always included interruptions for potty assistance and requests for snacks.  But it's what I know and I have grown kind of fond of it.

My one friend told me, after dropping her baby off at school, she cried all the way from the school parking lot to the restaurant.  She arrived at breakfast with her girlfriends and quickly realized she was going to be perfectly fine. I will be fine.  I will probably really like it most days. My heart is just a little heavy anticipating the change

I was sitting here pondering that my house will most definitely be cleaner. Surely,  I will always have the pantry stocked because getting to the grocery store will be a piece of cake. I won't be scrambling all the time because I will have more time to accomplish my to do list and of course I will probably be 2 sizes smaller by Christmas. I will have no excuse not to make it to the gym. Right?  Who am I kidding? Certainly not myself.  But it sounds good.

Boy will I miss my sidekick in life.  Aubrey.  She is my helper, my conversationalist, my Bible study and MOPS escort, my shopping companion, my cleaning assistant, my confidant and my friend.  I'm going to miss those sweet blue eyes peering at me as I gaze in my rear view mirror. It's a comfort knowing she is there with me.  We do everyday life together.

She told me the other day she didn't want to go to school because she didn't want me to be alone.  Sweet girl. Daddy assured her I wouldn't be alone. He told her we would be at breakfast together on a regular basis.  I have to say that doesn't sound all that bad.

But as I typed the last few paragraphs the tears started falling. Giving my baby girl wings.  Training her up and letting her fly a little at a time. It's not easy and she is the last one.

Something about the last one.  The others maybe didn't sting as much because there was another one still at home to fill the void.

 That preschool won't know what hit them when my persistent, sugary sweet, hilarious, little spitfire waltzes into that classroom and wins everyone over with her charm. And don't forget that precious, expressive face.

I am her biggest fan.  I can't wait to see how she does.  In the world.  The ballerina backpack is ready to go.

Pray for your children's teachers this year.  Pray that your children will be a light in the darkness.  Cover your children in prayer everyday as you travel to school.

My child, listen and accept what I say.  Then you will have a long life.  I am guiding you in the way of wisdom, and I am leading you on the right path.  Proverbs 4:10-11

Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks.  And God's peace which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:6-7

As my baby bird's wings get a little stronger on her first solo departure from the nest, you will find this mama on her knees. But really.... I know God has got this.

Anyone free for coffee?

Please bring the Kleenex.

The Sister Life

                                                                                                                                    

There are moments my daughters are completely annoyed with each other.  "Moooom, tell Aubrey to get out of our room."  "Mama Caroline is touching my stuff."  "Brynn is copying me, tell her to stop." I know little sisters can be annoying.  However, not my little sister.  Never.  Love you, Sarah.

 

Then there are those sweet moments that happen quite naturally.  Moments that aren't scripted or encouraged.  These moments give me hope. They make my heart go pitter patter and skip a beat.

 Brynn tying Caroline's shoes.

 All four girls walking hand in hand in the mall today.  I walked behind speechless.  Never mind    that they were totally blocking the aisle.  I was basking in the moment. If I only had my camera.

Anna helping Aubrey walk up the steps at church on Sunday.

Caroline making her sister's bed to surprise her.

Anna sitting Aubrey on her lap to ride her Flash Rider 360 because Aubs can't reach the pedals.  Last evening Anna went barreling down the driveway full speed ahead with Aubs on her lap. Slight heart attack...slight.( I included a visual for you.  Just in case you are not cool enough to know what a flash rider is. I have been enlightened.  I just learned on the twins' birthday.  Grandma Kneisley delivered.)

 

The twins take turns carrying Aubrey. She always seems to be too tired to walk.  (I have discussed with her that she will be starting pre school in a couple weeks and I assured her nobody will be carrying her just because she doesn't like to walk)  Yeah, I did it to her. Poor Aubrey.  She was little and slow and the fourth kid.  I was busy and in a hurry and it was just easier to put her on my hip and go. Guilty. I guess she will learn to walk more than 2 minutes at a time soon enough.  I refuse to carry her into her freshman dorm for college.

I digress.

There is a love exists and is unspoken.  It is rare.  And though they may not like each other many days.  They love each other. Forever.  It's the kind of love that speaks without saying  a word.  I got your back. You're not in this life alone. I am here for you always. I will help you.

It's also the message that Christ has for us--- His children.

I love that.  I have prayed for that relationship to develop between my daughters and I am watching it unfold right before my eyes. Slowly, quietly, unprompted.

I have that kind of relationship with my sisters. It's rare.  Once in a lifetime.  I have always desired  to facilitate it with my girls but I had no idea how. So, I have prayed.  God is answering my prayer. Day by day.  Slowly but surely.

I desire for my girls to be able to celebrate successes and feel each others' pain.
Rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn.  Romans 12:15
No competition.

Now, by no means am I claiming that I don't break up approximately 1228 fights per day.  Sometimes more. Anna still claims she wants to be an only child.  I don't believe her.

 

Gratitude for the sister life.

 

Enough for this mama today.



The Birds and the Bees

It's that time.  Time to have "the" conversation with Anna and Brynn.  They start fourth grade this fall.  I have been told that that is the year that friends start discussing a colorful array of subjects. Looking back on my childhood, it proves to be true. Fourth grade was the year.

It's strange really. With older and younger children,  I have a toe dipped in the waters of two different worlds.  On one hand I am holding up letter flashcards and playing dollhouse and on the other I have the imminent need to discuss  adult things with Anna and Brynn. Subject matter that will steal their innocence. Subjects like how people become pregnant and periods and boys.  If done correctly and according to God's plan those things are wonderful. (Well, maybe not the period part. Right ladies?) However, done out of sequence they can cause much heartache and pain.  My theory up until now has been ignorance is bliss, but not really.   I know that if I don't tell them they will find out from someone else and most likely, kids at school with incorrect information.  It seems that I am volunteering to remove the scales of innocence from their eyes.  As their Mama it is hard for me to do.

I love their innocence.  I love their flat chests and the fact that think someone can only get pregnant after they are married.  I love that they believe a baby grows inside a woman after she swallows a seed. I have inquired to see what they know.  It isn't much.  Honestly, it made me happy that they are still young, their minds are pure and carefree.  I wish they could stay that way forever.

They still laugh when they hear the word poop.  So imagine the snickers and eye rolls I am going to receive when I start the birds and bees talk. I know I have to prepare them for life.  Knowledge is power.  I fear telling them too much before they are ready. I worry about the questions they will ask and that I will be able to answer them appropriately.

I bought the book by Judy Blume, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret? Hopefully, that will help. I have read websites like Dr. Phil and Focus on the Family.  It's time to jump in head first.  I dread it but it's responsible. Can you hear the pep talk I am giving myself as I type?  My sweet friend told me the other day that she had "the talk" with her daughter.  "It's not fun or comfortable, but you have to do it," she insisted. So I'm jumping in...next week that is.

This week the older girls are still with their grandparents. I will celebrate innocence a little longer. You gotta love toddlers.  I will play princess, gawk at twirly dresses for the 100th time and rock doll babies.  Because I know, it won't always be that way.    Today, I will go back to folding bloomers and frilly socks for a few more days.

If you think of it whisper a prayer for me. I need it. Or if you did something that was really effective please share. This parenting thing ain't easy! I'm sure "the talk" will prove to be a hilarious sequel to this blog.  Please standby :)

No Coincidence.

We all have friends from our life's journey that we may not talk to everyday but will always remain near and dear to our hearts.  One of those friends contacted me yesterday.  She proceeded to tell me that her grandson had been killed in a tragic accident.  He was only 21 years old. She said that she just knew that I would understand.

Ben left for work this morning at 4:30am.  His alarm went off approximately ten times. It was blaringly loud. I think it was successful at waking everyone else up except him.  Nonetheless, he left for work and I was wide awake at 5am.  Now, for the sake of being transparent, it was the perfect time for me to get my booty out of bed and have my quiet time but instead I was on Facebook.  Sigh.

But wait.  Before you condemn me I'm going to illustrate how the Lord uses Facebook. My sweet friend I referenced above messaged me. She was on Facebook at the crack of dawn as well. We had a long conversation about God, anger, faith and trusting God when we cannot see. I shared some of my life experiences and we talked about what lessons I had learned from trials. I told her I do know that nothing that happens to us goes unused. Everything in life is used for God's glory and purposes. The good and the bad. I left the conversation promising to send her some verses that would help her get through this most difficult time.

As I dove into God's word, looking for verses to help my friend, verse after verse kept speaking to me.  I have been going through some hard times in my own life.  The past few days I have been having my own personal pity party.  So the verses I was looking up for my friend were just what I needed as well.

This just testifies to the fact that God uses all situations for the good of His children. I thought I was helping a friend but God was really using her to help me.  I am humbled.  Nothing is an accident, nothing is a coincidence. He uses relationships formed years ago, Facebook and Ben's annoying alarm to have us just where He wants us.  God is faithful.

So thankful my sweet friend contacted me.  God used it to speak to me about the power of leaning on His word.

It dawned on me as I looked up verses that I should share these with everyone.  I know God uses everyday situations to help people who need gentle encouragement.  I am starting my day realizing my utter dependence on God's word.  It provides truth for me to stand on. A firm foundation. A refuge in times of trouble.

Here are the verses I am sending my friend.  Maybe God will use them to speak to you as well.  Blessings.

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect me. Psalm 23:4

But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed... 2 Timothy 4:17

Do not fear for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous hand. Isaiah 41:10

The Lord is good a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust him. Nahum 1:7

 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness, made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.  We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;  persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:6-9

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18

The Lord will guide you always;  he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. Isaiah 58:11

 Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine. Ephesians 3:20

 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,   knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.   But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.   If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.   But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.   For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;   he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
James 1:2-8

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.  Psalm 91:4

Be strong and courageous. Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.   Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matthew 11: 28-30

Do not be afraid or terrified, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5

Listen to me, you descendants of Jacob all the remnant of the people of Israel, you whom I have upheld since your birth, and have carried since you were born. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you. Isaiah 46:3-4

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.  Hebrews 13:8

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Psalm 112:7

Plaster these anywhere that will help you commit them to memory. your bathroom mirror, your car or by the kitchen sink. We need to have God's word on the tip of our tongues and etched on our hearts.  God's word. totally sufficient.

Road Trip

First stop Kentucky.  Every summer we head out of the sweltering heat to visit family and friends in cooler parts of the United States.  Our children anticipate it all year and this year was no exception. 

My family lives in Kentucky. While there, we visited relatives and swam in Nana's pool.  Her pool has a diving board that has no age or height requirement (unlike where we swim). All my girls jumped to their hearts content.  This was the first year Aubrey got in on the action and she loved it.  One day we visited with my Grammy Jean.  She is my only living grandparent and it is always a treat to spend time with her.  The girls "endure" all my stories about my childhood memories at her home  But we enjoy reminiscing.  Nana even babysat for us so that Ben and I could go out to dinner.  The girls stayed up late and watched  movies.

Second stop, Ohio.  Ben's family lives in Ohio.   We drove 5 hours north to spend a week with them.  They own two acres of land.  My girls run around outside all day exploring and helping Grandma pick vegetables from the garden.  Sounds idyllic huh?  Well it is. We took a picnic lunch to Lake Erie for dinner one evening.  On my birthday, we went to the Cleveland Museum of Art and the girls took art lessons.  Afterwards, we went to Little Italy and had Italian pastries at a bakery, followed by lunch at the Cheesecake Factory.  Most of all I enjoyed sitting on my in laws back deck chatting, with the cool, northern breeze blowing through my hair.  Cool breezes in July are foreign to this Floridian.

Third stop, The Lake in Apple Valley, Ohio.  We have a tradition where each year on the fourth of July we meet our best friends from college and stay at their lake house.  We go boating and tubing and talk while our kids take turns sliding and jumping off the dock.  It is pure heaven. We wear our bathing suits all weekend.  I never know what time it is while we are there.  We eat delicious food and catch up with each other.  It is so special to watch our children play together.  They have so much fun.  Our husbands turn into pyros setting off way too many fireworks to count. It is one of my favorite things we do as a family.

This year we did something that we have talked about for the past few years.  We left Anna with Grandma and Grandpa Kneisley and Brynn with Nana and Pop.    I feel very fortunate that my girls have grandparents who know them and want to spend time with them.  They know their interests, their personalities, their food preferences and what their struggles are. I want them to have one on one time with their grandparents.  I want them to remember sweet moments and gain wisdom.

 My heart swelled as I listened to  Grandma Kneisley read aloud with Anna.  I love to watch my mother teach the girls to fill up the deer feeder and sit eagerly on her porch and admire birds and watch for deer.  I listen as they tell my girls about faith and friendship and manners  My heart overflows with gratitude.  It takes a village.

These two weeks Anna and Brynn are receiving priceless attention from their grandparents-- times ten.    Anna will be taking art lessons at the art museum, visiting Niagara Falls and she emailed me that Grandpa had already set her up an art studio in the garage and bought her acrylic paints.  Yesterday, I received a text from my Mama with a picture of Brynn at the park eating doughnuts.  She will be visiting the Kentucky Horse Farms and playing baseball with her Pop. Mama has already taught her to play two songs on the piano.  Priceless, priceless times. Thankful, thankful me.

This is also a test.  A time to see if everything I am teaching them is put into action.  Not that the Grandparents will tell me.  But I can't help but wonder will my girls remember their manners? will they be helpful and kind? Will they clean up their messes and make their beds? Will they remember to give thanks to God everyday without me reminding them? Will they be able to keep track of their belongings and match their clothes? It's hard to let them "fly" a little.  This separation is a small glimpse into the future. They will be on their own and I have to rest on the fact that I taught them all I could and it's time to turn them over to God.  He will do the rest.  It occurred to me today that in life, my girls are truly only in our household for a short time.  Most of their lives will be spent away from us making their own decisions, spreading their wings. Our job is to prepare them for God to use them.

Our car was empty with just 2 kiddos on our trip back to Fl.  Every time we stopped to potty I felt like I was missing something.  The noise level is down considerably (Can't complain about that)  But it hit me as I sat in their empty room on their beds yesterday and whispered a prayer for them--  they complete us.  Our family may not have any boys, and we may have more kids than most but it's perfect and when part of our family unit is missing there is a hole.  It is noticeable.  I can't believe I am going to say this but, yes, I miss Brynn's incessant talking.  It's weird not to have Anna standing over my bed in the morning asking me what we are going to do for the day.

We dropped Brynn off last before heading home to Florida. Caroline and Aubrey were both crying.  Caroline whimpers, "But we have no sisters left." Tears rolling down her cheeks.  One of the greatest gifts our girls have is the gift of sisterhood.

Every member of my family plays an integral part in our family dynamics.  God planned it perfectly and I give him all the glory.

It's nice to be home. I am spending the next couple weeks focusing on my two littlest.

“What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.”
― Mother Teresa

Have I Told You? Part 2

My twins 9th birthday is approaching.  I just sent out birthday invitations yesterday for their first slumber party. May God be with me. Prayers appreciated!  Nine years old. How did that happen so quickly?  That is literally half of the time that they will most likely live under my roof---gone.  Poof. The parents that have 25 year olds living in their basement just laughed at my last sentence.  Oh well, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

I feel panicky at times about what my daughters are learning and who they are turning out to be.  I know that God has this.  He is in charge.  However, will I be able to stand in front of Him one day and be proud of the job I did as a parent?   Do I always give Jesus the glory for their lives and for their successes? That is  my prayer.  I am humbled at the 4 lives God has entrusted to my care. Parenting  is not easy, especially if it is done right.  But it's so important and time is fleeting. So while I am blessed to hear the pitter patter of little feet on my floors, I am giving it all I got!  I am taking every opportunity to mold and shape and teach. 

Here is a little tid bit God is testifying to my soul. I will be obedient and share...if you are out there running around like a mad woman to every sporting event and ballet class and you never sit down for a family dinner. Stop it.  The dinner table is where many meaningful conversations about life, friends and how every ones day was happen.Try and carve out time to make family dinner a priority.  It is vital. Ok. Glad I got that off my chest.

I wrote a blog a few years ago called Have I Told You?  This is Part 2

For my precious daughters...

Do not wait to live life.  Do it now. Take hold of your days.  Ask God to guide you.

All great achievements take time and perseverance.   I hope that you will always believe in yourself that you can achieve great things.  When you get there, I hope you stay humble.  Your gifts and abilities are from above. Give God all the glory.

Don't put God in a box.  Dare to step out on faith.  Some of my greatest life blessings have come by me stepping out in faith. He is God of the impossible.  Believe it.

Mistakes are okay in life.  But learn from them.  Do not constantly fall in the same hole over and over. Our God is the God of second chances.  He forgives us.  Forgive yourself. 

When there are problems with various people in your life.  Take time to reflect and see if  the common denominator is YOU.  Be willing to examine yourself and your ways and seek forgiveness and reconciliation.

May you see sunshine where others see shadows and opportunities where others see obstacles.

May you find happiness in what you have.  All blessings come from above. Do not always be striving for what you do not have. Learn to live a life of contentment, it will bring you peace.

Align your priorities in life with things that are close to God's heart. Does your life bless him?

When your life is falling apart.  And it will feel like it at times, sweet ones.  Turn to your faith, family and friends to be the glue that holds it together.

Always look for the sparkle that is hidden in the dreariest of days.  It's there. And when you can't seem to snap out of a funk, go serve someone.  God created us to serve.  Taking care of a persons need will enable you to get over yourself.  Hopefully.  If not come see me.  I will help you;)

When you start to worry give it to God.  He does not want us pacing floors wringing our hands.  He has scripted our lives and if you a walking through something difficult it is part of His plan.

Pray on your knees.

God cannot fill you up with His precious spirit if you do not get rid of the junk in your heart.  Start your day by confessing your shortcoming and fears and doubts.  This will make room for His Holy Spirit to work through you.

It is not being the best person you can be.  It is God shining through you and letting him lead in every facet of your life.  Let Him take control your responses, decisions and thoughts.  Take yourself off of the throne of your heart and place HIM in His rightful place.

Learn manners and table etiquette so that you can be comfortable in any situation.

Don't allow what you can't do interfere with what you can do.  I want to fill you with confidence while you are under my roof so that the world cannot tear you down.

Live life with a thankful heart.  Give thanks even for little things like sunny days and close parking spaces.  This will train your heart and mind to find things to be thankful for despite circumstances.

Find out what your spiritual gifts are and use them.

Take time for people even if you have no time.  God will honor your efforts and things somehow seem to get done when you put people first.

When you know you are right do not compromise.  But when you are wrong be the first one to apologize.  Do not be prideful. Pride will plague your life.

I want you to always feel free to be you.  You are God's perfect creation.  Being yourself will bring you peace. Living a life that is a facade is exhausting.  I love each and every one of your unique personalities.

Love deeply.  Follow God's greatest commandment. Be willing to be vulnerable without always fearing rejection.

Your reputation and integrity are important. They must be earned back once they are damaged.  Guard them.

If you are constantly making excuses for yourself or a person close to you.  There is usually a problem that needs to be addressed.  Do not be in denial.  Address the problem.You will be glad you did.

Do not underestimate the power of music.  Continue our dance parties when you are older.  Sing in a hairbrush in the mirror. Music lights up the soul.

Have the fortitude and faith to hang on to what is important even when others let go.

When you are weary and troubled, Be still and know He is God. "The Lord is your shepherd." He will lead you by still waters.  God won't always take you out of difficult situations but He will lead you through them.

When you pray and ask of God always begin by stating you want His will.  Even if His will is not your will in the end you will be happier.  His plan is always better.

I must go for now.  I hear rustling in the pantry in the kitchen.  May I savor every moment that I wake up to four little girls around my table.  And may I slow down and take the time to tell you while I have the chance.

Love, Mama