29 Lincoln Avenue

Multitude Monday

2010-06-25T06:51:00.007-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts.....

358. The way her eyes crinkle when she smiles.
359. How she loves her daddy.
360. The laughter she shares with her sisters
362. How she fits in our family.

Thankful,

A Sweet Treat

2010-06-25T00:00:00.008-04:00

Today I have the sweetest treat to be a guest barista at Internet Cafe Devotions. Awhile back, I took a step of faith and sent them a rework of a post I wrote here called I Need Thee Every Hour. To my surprise, they sweetly accepted and chose today to post it. You can read it by clicking here.

I also wanted to share a Sweet Treat with you. My friend Krystal made a cake last month for my birthday and put this amazing Peanut Butter Frosting on it. I knew from from the first bite that I wanted to share it with you. So this weekend, when you are doing your weekly shopping, pick up a cake mix, make this homemade frosting, and share it with your family and friends. They really will think you are the sweetest thing! (Or sit and eat it directly from the bowl while you are watching the new BBC version of Emma...another sweet thing you will love!)

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter
1 cup creamy peanut butter
4 cups confectioners' sugar
1/3 cup cream

Directions

In a large bowl, beat butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Slowly beat in 1/2 of the confectioner's sugar. Mix in 1/4 cup of the cream. Beat in the remaining confectioners' sugar. If necessary, add a little more cream or milk until the frosting reaches a good spreading consistency. Makes enough to frost one 2 layer 9 inch cake or one 9x13 inch cake.

***Recipe taken from AllRecipe.com

Looking Forward,

Social Graces

2010-06-24T00:00:00.002-04:00

In his newly published Bringing Up Girls, Dr. James Dobson writes:

A girl who has been trained properly is never completely

knocked off balance when she is in an unfamiliar circumstance.

She knows what is expected of her and how to deal with it. Her sense of self

worth is reinforced by the way adults react to her charm, poise,

and grace. For the mother who wants to give her daughter a

head start in life and help her compete socially, this is a great place to begin.

I love the thought that if I train them well, my girls will not be knocked of balance when they are in an unfamiliar circumstance. Isn't that a beautiful picture? What a gift to give my girls.

All good training, teaching social graces included, is a daily - (constant) endeavor. It requires direct training, setting a good example and sneaking in good object lessons as well. I am excited about a new book that I found recently that is going to the top of our read aloud books.

What I love about this book is that it uses stories from literature to illustrate manners. Remember, story is a pull strategy? I often say to my 4 year old, "Are you acting like The Beast, or a Beauty?" This instantly gives her a visual and gentle reminder from me to correct her behavior.

What about you? How do you teach social graces to your children? Today, the Homeschool Village is having a blog carnival and you can see how other parents are doing just that!

Looking Forward,

P.S. The MODsquad Blog is coming July 5! I am super excited to be part of this amazing blog for Mother's of Daughters. Follow us on twitter @modsquadmoms or find us on Facebook so you don't miss anything.

Words To Live By

2010-06-22T22:35:00.003-04:00

"Almost any of us can be heroic, even daring in the midst of great excitement.
But it takes a much more steadfast faith in our Father to stay true in the
quiet place where He puts us. It is in the daily duties of our little lives where
God asks us to be loyal, steady friends --
people who will perform their part without fanfare, those who can
be trusted implicitly to do their duty."
Lessons From A Sheepdog, page 44

Looking Forward,

P.S. My friend Megan is sewing her way to Relevant 1o! She makes adorable zippy bags like this one I won from Layton Family Joy:

As well as super cute bags to hold business cards and Bible verses! She also is part of the group of women I have the pleasure of launching the MODsquad blog with on July 5! Check out her business at Halfpint House - and order some cute bags today!!!

Chair Time

2010-06-22T00:00:00.005-04:00

I was honored this past weekend to guest post for my friend Megan at The Tuckers Take Tennessee. After praying about what I could share, I felt led to continue my story and write about the legacy I want to leave my children. I hope you will join me there, and read about why I need a small group of women in my life. Also, please take the time to say hi to Megan and thank her for inviting me to share my heart! Just click on the button below:

Looking Forward,

Multitude Monday

2010-06-20T21:47:00.006-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts....

330. Mike loves the Lord and serves Him with His life.
331. He spends time with the girls.
332. He works hard so I can stay home.
333. He supports me as their teacher.
334. He loves being a dad of girls.
335. He listens to countless words.
336. He doesn’t complain about back to back ballet recitals.
337. Saturday morning breakfast dates.
338. The humming song he sings for them.
339. He prays with them.
340. He is Super Daddy!

Thankful,

The Best Of....

2010-06-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, I shared with you some of my favorites from around the blog world. The response from you was great! Here are a few more worthy finds...

The Best of Multitude Monday...

Jezamama made it to 1,000 gifts! I love that she calls herself a Gratitude Chaser. Isn't that a great picture of being thankful? Find her post about the finish line here: (best button too!)

Best Devotion on Friendship...

My sweet sister (in Christ) Kathleen texted me this link and with these words "Glad I'm fastened to you..." It made my day! Read this awesome devotion and text your girlfriend!

Best Summer List...

Do you have plans this summer? I found this idea for a Summer List from Kimba at A Soft Place To Land who got it from:

@Whatever
We made ours and it looks like this:

And look! There is room at the bottom to keep adding ideas as we discover them. I think it will help us have a great and purposeful summer.

Have a great Friday!

Home School Village

2010-06-17T00:00:00.004-04:00

Robyn, Stef, Sue, and Susan started The Homeschool Village with a desire to provide a place of connection and encouragement for homeschool moms. Each week, they have a link up party at Layton Family Joy, focusing on a new topic of discussion that is applicable to the homeschooling mom. During the rest of the week, they share encouragements (and Starbucks) through their facebook page and tweets! If you are a homeschooler, I know that you will be glad to hang out at the Village! This weeks link up party is to share a favorite book you have found in your homeschooling journey.

I have been homeschooling for almost 6 years. Yes, that sounds like an eternity to me, too. But really, it has flown by. For me, it is not so much about teaching my girls. It is about being with them and discipling them. I do teach math, language, history, science and the like, but our focus is doing life together. I have never been one to read a lot of "how to books" on the subject of homeschooling. So the book I am going to share with you is really a heart book. My pick is:

The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson:

One of my favorite parts of the book is when she describes the ministry of Christ:

"The night before Jesus was to be crucified, his heart and mind must have been filled with weariness and exhaustion at the thought of what he would soon endure...But instead of just telling them (the disciples) what to do, harshly commanding their allegiance with orders and threats or guilt and manipulative statements, he chose to tie the cords of his heart to theirs with the strong and unbreakable bond of a loving, serving relationship. Jesus spent his last night on earth with his disciples in service to them." Pages 34,35 (excerpts)

When I first read these words I thought, "Jesus understands me. The disciples really were like little children. My mothering is a ministry." I can't tell you what a difference this has made in my life as a mom who also happens to homeschool. Every day I have a choice to tie the cords of my heart to theirs. Some days I do better at this than others. But it is always my goal. I pray that they remember, not just the lessons at the table, but the relationships we built around it.

Looking Forward,

P.S. Sally has a beautiful blog called I Take Joy that you really should visit! I know her words will encourage you!

Words To Live By

2010-06-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

"Good parenting almost always requires sacrifice.
Childhood lasts only for a brief moment,
but should be given priority while it is passing before your eyes."

Bringing Up Girls
Dr. James Dobson

Looking Forward,

Raising Kids In Faith

2010-06-15T14:21:00.004-04:00

Tonight I am taking part in Gather Inspirit TV hosted by Mingle TV. We will be discussing raising kids in faith. Other guests will include Abby from Tommy Nelson Publishers, Brooke and Erin from The M.O.B. Society (Mothers of Boys) and other moms from the MODsquad (mothers of daughters). If you have time between 7PM - 8PM Eastern Standard, check it out!

Click here to find Mingle TV:

Please pray for me as I share my heart for raising my girls in the faith!

Looking Forward,

Chair Time

2010-06-15T00:00:00.001-04:00

Unwrapping Joy.....

As I mentioned last week, I have been studying the Fruit of The Spirit this summer. While focusing on Joy recently, God gave me the chance to worship with the lovely Kari Jobe. She was visiting our church and during the service she spoke about "putting on the garment of praise." It is taken from this verse in Isaiah:

and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
(Verse 61:3 , New International Version)

The thing that hit me so hard as I reflected on this, was that we have to be willing put on the garment of praise. Some days, I don't feel like it. I'd rather wear despair. Some days, it is a spiritual discipline to put it on. But as I do, His joy covers me. And according to these verses I then have the chance to be called an oak of righteousness, lovingly planted by the Master Gardner. I become a display of His splendor. From ashes, despair, and weeping to gladness, praise and splendor! Now that is a transformation!

Lord, it is my prayer that I will actively seek to put on the garment of praise every day. Even on days when despair feels more comfortable - that by faith I will put on joy. I will put on praise. And I will be transformed into a glorious display of your handiwork for all to see.

Joyfully,

Multitude Monday

2010-06-14T00:00:00.001-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts

Being Mommy...

#299 Ice cream makes me the best mommy in the world
#300 Being the one they want when they are sick
#301 The chance to teach them about faith, family, heart and home
#302 Reading before bed.
#303 Forgiveness
#304 Dreaming big dreams with them and for them.
#305 A hand to always hold
#312 Hearing the praise of others upon them.
#313 Getting a front row seat to it all.

Thankful,

June To Do List

2010-06-11T08:48:00.003-04:00

I'm sharing my June To Do List with you in order to keep myself accountable to actually do what is on the list. I always feel better when I can write it down and see it. Somehow, it feels like an accomplishment by just putting it on paper!

These things are just few of the things that I'm aiming to do this month. They range from getting Scripture more visible in my home to being purposeful to build relationships with each of my girls. I also am hoping to get some time out of the house alone during the week to just be quiet, write and think. And, I am looking around my very neglected home to see what projects need to be accomplished first in the downstairs area and then July I will move to the upstairs.

What about you? What is on your June To Do List?

Have a great weekend,

The Porch

2010-06-09T22:34:00.000-04:00

The first time I met Tiffany, was in a moment of desperation. My husband was away on a business trip for about 14 days, and I was home alone with 3 small children. A mutual friend 'gifted' me an afternoon alone by loaning me her babysitting services. She has been caring for my girls ever since. I am so glad she is hanging out on the Porch with us today. I think you will love her sweet story of being in His presence.

in His presence

i love babysitting. seriously, there is nothing better than watching someone's kids and getting to leave at the end of the night and get a full nights sleep. i mean, i want to be a mom someday, but babysitting is really as good as it gets! its like the best of both worlds!

i love when i get to a house and the kid(s) have one thing that they love to do with me. at one house, its painting fingernails for 3 bright eyed energetic girls. at another house, its watching Tinkerbell the movie with another little girl that dreams of being Ariel one day. this is the same girl that thinks her daddy is prince charming!

God doesn't babysit me, although i think sometimes my behavior warrants babysitting, but that is besides the point. but there are things i LOVE to do with Him. i love to rest in His presence. i know that sounds so general, but have you ever been there? have you ever been so fully wrapped in Him that you get goosebumps?

it happened on my way home today. i was singing How Deep The Father's Love For Us (sung by Nichole Nordeman) in my car and felt it. the goosebumps traveled all the way from my ankles to my head. you know, that kind that overwhelms you? it came at this part:

it was my sin that held Him there
until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
i know that it is finished

sometimes i cannot even imagine how or why He loves me the way He does. i don't think i am supposed to.

like i said, i love babysitting, and the fact that the kids love doing one special thing with Miss Tiffany. but what the kids don't know, is that as much as they love doing that with me, i love just being with them. i like to think God thinks that too. in fact, i know He does.

Zephaniah 3:17
"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love, He will rejoice over you with singing."

Thanks Tiffany for sharing your heart with us today! And thank you for loving my girls, showing them how to serve the Lord with your whole life . I believe that God is using you as one of the 1 Million Arrows that is striking a blow in the darkness!

Looking Forward,

You can visit Tiffany's personal blog by clicking here. And by the way, my girls are the ones who love the finger nail painting!

Words To Live By

2010-06-09T00:00:00.003-04:00

Lilian has drawn more comfort and profit from one verse--nay, from three words in the Bible than I have drawn from the whole book," reflected Kate. "I have but read the Scriptures,--she has searched them. I have been like one floating carelessly over the surface of waters under which lie pearls; Lillian has dived deep and made the treasure her own."

Two Ways of Reading The Bible

from

The King's Daughter And Other Stories for Girls

page 46

J.E. White

Are you floating carelessly over the surface or are you diving deep?

Looking Forward,

Chair Time

2010-06-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

love.

joy.

peace.

patience

kindness.

goodness.

faithfulness.

gentleness.

self control.

Does this list feel like a cold drink on a warm day, or does it send chills up your spine because you don't recognize any of them in your life? I have leaned towards the latter lately. So, I thought it would be good for all of us at our house (and by that I mean myself) to have a reminder of what the Spirit controlled life looks like (hint: see above list from Galatians 5:22,23). I am spending time each week focusing on a different quality and then the following week sharing it with my girls. 2 weeks for mom, 1 week for them. This is by design. Hopefully they will see it in me before I teach it to them.

In the New Living Translation version of the Bible it says, " But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives He will produce this kind of fruit in us....." He produces the fruit. My job is to give Him control to do it. When I try to produce this kind of fruit myself, I end up with one big mess.

The best picture I have of this was from a Bible teacher I heard in college named Jim Sylvester. He said that when we are not spirit controlled the fruit we produce is like a moldy, rotten, smelly peach. No one wants that. But when I let the Spirit produce His fruit in and through me, it is like a crisp red ripe apple that makes a glorious crunch when you bite it. And the juice runs down your chin. It is so good. You want more. More importantly, others want what you have.

So I have to ask myself this question: Does anyone around me want what I have? Am I allowing His fruit to be produced though me in such a way that it is recognizable as His produce? More importantly, what will my family say?

On second thought...maybe 2 weeks is not enough for mommy.

So far to go,

Multitude Monday

2010-06-07T07:19:00.005-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts

#281 - #294
Weekend Joys

Friday night pizza
Movie with Mike
Saturday AM breakfast with Daddy
Time to write
Flowers for my porch.
Family dinner.
Sabbath rest.
Worshiping with Kari Jobe.
A Word from God.
Pedicure.
Time with my girls.
A nap.
Dishes in the sink means I'm doing other more important things.
Simple reminders.

Thankful,

The Best Of...

2010-06-04T08:28:00.007-04:00

Happy Friday! Here are a few things I found this week to be The Best of....

The Best Art Project:

I found a super easy painting activity at my favorite art blog! My girls loved painting these "Monet Water Lilies" using oil pastels (crayons would also work) and water colors

The Best Blog for Mom's of Boys:

An amazing group of moms that I have come to know and love through the Relevant Conference, have started a new blog for Mother's of Boys. It has an outstanding team of mom bloggers and their passion is reaching the heart of their boys for the Gospel and preparing a generation of men to love the Lord.

The Best Teaching:

While visiting the Good Morning Girls Blog, I saw this video of Beth Moore teaching on Glory Through Suffering . If you have a couple of minutes it will profoundly move you!

The Best Heart Post:

I love Teri Lynne's post on Being a Child First! It truly blessed my heart this week.

The Best Story:

Kristen shares this great story entitled, What To Do When Your Pants Rip. Read it, enough said.

The Best On Summer Nesting:

My favorite Nester is telling you how to Summerize Your Home. Oh how I love her and her dwelling place!

The Best Link Up Party:

I love Seeds of Faith and their Wednesday ifellowship. You will meet some great Christian Women Bloggers here!

This week, my friend Stef at Layton Family Joy also started another blog link up for home school moms called Homeschool Village. This was also fabulous!

I hope you have The Best Weekend,

The Porch

2010-06-03T00:00:00.003-04:00

I am so thrilled to introduce you to Joann. She is a M.O.D Squad mom of two and every time she shares her heart I am inspired to love Jesus more and be a mom of purpose. Recently, she shared this story about her daughter for our home school program. If you read one blog post today, read this one! I know it will be so glad you did!

The Finish Line
by Joann

This weekend, our family celebrated the graduation of our oldest daughter Jordynn. We have crossed the finish line and we are overwhelmed with joy!

Jordynn's graduation journey began her Freshman year of high school. As a family, we decided to attend graduation each May until it was our turn. We would ask her to visualize herself walking across the stage to receive her diploma. My husband and I would visualize ourselves walking across the stage to meet her. One year I even remember grabbing the back of a church envelope to practice writing what our recording would say. Would we be funny or serious? Would we let the audience know all of our daughter's funny nicknames? Would we share congratulations for her academic accomplishments or for the growth of her tender heart? We practiced this moment for four years...we had an end picture.

For our family, parent directed education was an unexpected turn on our journey. God had called us to remove our daughter from private, Christian school at the onset of seventh grade and bring her home. This was an act of obedience and required total reliance on the Lord.

Can I tell you the most amazing part of our family's story? The Lord knit our hearts together in a new way. We fell madly in love with our daughter all over again! Was homeschooling hard? You bet! Were there disagreements? Of course! Did we love each other? Yes! Did we like each other? Most of the time. (wink!)

Crossing the finish line requires...

- Full engagement
- Intentional preparation
- Unrelenting perseverance
- Whole-hearted commitment
- and lots and lots of Love!

Moms, I encourage you to develop your end picture. I encourage you to visualize your finish line. I encourage you to practice celebrating the moment for He promises that His good work in your family will come to full completion.

"And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you." -- Philippians 1:6 AMP

This mother's heart rejoices today for the finish line is so sweet...He has completed what He started in our graduate!

When I asked Joann if I could post this for my 29lincolnavenue friends, she said, "Mom's are my passion and anytime the Lord allows me to encourage them, I'm thrilled!!" Don't you just love her! Thanks so much Joann!

Looking Forward,

Have you become a fan of 29lincolnavenue on facebook yet? You can click here and choose 'like' By doing this, each time there is a new post here, it will show up as a news item in your daily feed. Thanks!

Words To Live By

2010-06-02T07:13:00.004-04:00

"If you are still drawing breath, God's got promises to fulfill in your life."

Beth Moore

Looking Forward,

P.S. iFellowship was created by the team at Seeds Of Faith. They have said, "We wanted all the Christian moms out there to have a place to get to know each-other and well, just fellowship! After all, we're called to fellowship with one another. (1st Corinthians 1:9 "God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.")" Visit them today and add your link each Wednesday to join ifellowship.

Chair Time

2010-05-31T22:15:00.003-04:00

I have realized a couple of things about myself recently. The first, is that I do pretty good with the big picture kind of stuff in life. This is one reason why One Million Arrows resonated so deeply for me. It spoke my language. Second, the issues I struggle with are daily laid down life kind of things. Like serving others and letting go of my flesh driven selfish nature. Can they see His character - the Fruit of His Spirit living in me? And by they, I don't mean the Publix check out girl. I can be loving, joyful, patient and gentle with her for at least 5 minutes. I am talking about the people who know me best, the ones I can't fool...my family.

"It simply is not natural for most of us to love God or love others in the dramatic discipline of a laid down life. We are selfish, self-serving people... Yet God in Christ came among us in lowly service. He came to minister to us, to give Himself to us. And so, because He first loved us, we in turn are to be willing and ready to love Him and others."

(see John 3:16-17 and1 John 3:16-17)

Lessons From A Sheepdog, p 56

I recently read this little book and fell in love with the sweet dog Lass. I saw so much of myself in her. The above quote is one that truly spoke to me. My flesh does not want to lay down my life and serve. I often find myself grumbling that I have do "it" myself. But the truth is that Christ came among us to love and serve. His was a life laid down from the very beginning (Philippians 2:5-11). His Spirit lives within me. And because of that I have the capacity to love, serve, and show His character to others. He isn't asking me to do anything He wasn't willing to do. And He doesn't ask me to do it myself either. All He asks of me is to step aside and allow the Fruit of His Spirit to do it through me.

"Little children, (or in this case their mother), let us not love with word

or with tongue, but in deed and truth."

1 John 3:18

Looking Forward,

One Million Arrows Winner

2010-05-31T10:03:00.004-04:00

The winner of the copy of One Million Arrows is:

Leslie from Tiny Wings - learning to fly! Leslie found her way to 29lincolnavenue through our mutual friend Tracie at tsj photography. Congratulations Leslie! Please email me your address and I will get send you the book this week. I know you will be blessed as you read this amazing book. If you would like to order a copy for yourself you can click here.

Today I am contributing a blog post over at One Million Arrows. Be sure to stop by and check it out. Thanks Julie for the opportunity!

Looking Forward,

Multitude Monday

2010-05-30T23:24:00.006-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts

#270 Oreo Cheescake

#271 Catching up with my in real life friend who blogs, and meeting
my blog friend who is now in my real life friend!

Thankful,

P.S. Have you joined the 29lincolnavenue Facebook Fan Page?

On Million Arrows My Response

2010-05-27T07:15:00.000-04:00

So here I sit, thinking to myself, “How can I take the long way home and commit today to raising arrows that will strike a blow against the kingdom of darkness?”

First, I am praying that God will give my husband & me a specific vision for raising our own little pink arrows. They are all unique and fabulously made. I am determined now more than ever to be a parent who is purposeful. Second, I know it will take a commitment from me every day to be shaped by the Shepherd Himself…because “they will become as I am becoming..” (Paraphrased from page 22). I have to be willing to be shaped first before I am going to shape them.

Will it be easy? No. Will I be asked to forgo my own personal comforts? Probably. Might others think I am crazy? Surely. Will there be rewards? You bet.

I am going to offer one person a chance to win a copy of this book. Leave a comment below and tell me what you are thinking about this week's focus of One Million Arrows. *I will choose one comment from Randomizer.org to win a free copy of this book. The contest is open until Sunday May 29 at midnight.

If by chance your heart is stirred, I highly encourage you to order this book. I promise you will be challenged and inspired! And another added blessing is that all proceeds from the sale of One Million Arrows go to further work with orphans around the world! So not only will you be blessed to read it, you will bless others by purchasing it as well.

Looking Forward,

To order a copy of One Million Arrows, click here.

***Contest is only open to those living in the United States of America.

Julie Ferwerda is recognized for making the Bible exciting and relevant to everyday life through her writing and speaking. Her articles are featured in many Christian magazines and websites for both adults and teens, and she frequently volunteers her time and talents to international orphan ministry. Learn more at OneMillionArrows.com.

One Million Arrows Review

2010-05-26T00:00:00.004-04:00

Challenged.
Inspired.
Moved.

These words all describe how I felt as read this book. At it's core, it is a book discipling our children in Christ. The book is broken into three sections. First Julie challenges you to Gather – by owning the mission, next to Sharpen – by being purposeful in the training of your children, and finally to Launch – by placing them in the hands of Christ “prepared as skillful weapons against the kingdom of darkness” By doing this you can raise children who will literally change the world.

The vision for this book came from a long time servant of Christ, Dr. M.A. Thomas or 'Papa', as he is often called. Serving in the poorest sections of India, Papa, received a calling from the Lord to gather, sharpen, and launch arrows who also happened to be orphans. As Julie describes, this method of discipleship can also work in our own homes with our children.

I think my favorite part of the book is in the chapter entitled “Shape Arrows At Home.” In it, Julie interviews several parents including Bob and Pam Tebo, Gregg and Sono Harris, and Josh McDowell . As a Florida girl, I have to give a special nod to this quote about recent Florida Gator and Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow’s parents:

“Tim had parents who stuck to the safer, long way home by committing themselves to raising arrows… Tim’s parents made decisions based on the big picture, not on immediate gratification, easy shortcuts, or personal comfort. From the beginning, they set out to raise kids who would make a lasting impact on this world.” P. 52

If you haven't been living under a rock for the past few years, you certainly know about Tim Tebow. You probably also know, that he was recently drafted to play in the NFL for the Denver Broncos. Even if you aren't a football fan, you may have seen Tim and his mom in a Super Bowl Ad for for Life, produced by Focus on The Family. The amazing thing is that when Tim's parents realized how gifted he was, they saw football as a platform for him to share Christ. Today, that vision is giving him the chance to share his testimony with people all over the world.

Tim is just one of a Million Arrows that God has used to change the world for Christ. His parents answered the call early on to become arrow shapers. I would highly encourage you to read One Million Arrows and you will be powerfully moved to consider how you might become an arrow shaper, too.

Looking Forward,

To Read a copy of Chapter 1, click here.
For information on how to order a copy, click here.

Julie Ferwerda is recognized for making the Bible exciting and relevant to everyday life through her writing and speaking. Her articles are featured in many Christian magazines and websites for both adults and teens, and she frequently volunteers her time and talents to international orphan ministry. Learn more at OneMillionArrows.com.

P.S. I am also linking up today with Seeds of Faith and I Fellowship to promote this awesome book and the tour! I also happen to like what these neat women are doing to build a community of women online! Check them out!

One Million Arrows

2010-05-25T00:00:00.006-04:00

I have this unspoken rule. When I stumble across something twice…I take it as hint from God to notice it. I’m not sure where I first saw the book One Million Arrows by Julie Ferwerda, but the Lord in His wisdom put in front of me a second time. I took the hint, contacted Julie and she was gracious enough to send me a copy. Over the next 3 days, I will be participating in her One Million Arrows Blog Tour and dedicating my posts to this awesome book. Today, I am going to give you a basic summary of the book and a chance to read the first chapter. Tomorrow, I will post my Review, and Thursday I will give you a chance to win your own copy.

Summary:

Will the world change our children...or will our children change the world? Time is short and lives are at stake. Right now, God is inviting our families to become part of a bigger story—a vision that will engage hearts to make a radical difference. One Million Arrows is an inspirational call to raise our kids to impact their culture, community, and world for Christ. If we want our kids to discover their purpose, if we want them to live with passion for the Kingdom, if we want our family to go down in His-Story, accept the mission...and leave a mark for eternity.

Looking Forward,

Download a free copy of Chapter 1, here.
For information on how to order a copy of the book , click here.
To visit other blogs taking part in the OMA Blog Tour, click here.

Julie Ferwerda is recognized for making the Bible exciting and relevant to everyday life through her writing and speaking. Her articles are featured in many Christian magazines and websites for both adults and teens, and she frequently volunteers her time and talents to international orphan ministry. Learn more at OneMillionArrows.com.

Multitude Monday

2010-05-24T00:00:00.001-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts.....

#262 Celebrating my dad's birthday and a year of miracles.
I am grateful beyond words!

Thankful,

A Few Things

2010-05-21T15:13:00.003-04:00

First of all, it is Friday and today is special because:

(Insert cheers and dancing here!!!)

I don't think I have ever been more ready to enjoy summer than I am right now! It has been a great year, but it has also been a hard year. Earlier today I put all our pictures in an album (on my Mac of course because I do not scrapbook!) Then I picked a few songs and played it as a slide show. By the end, I had tears in my eyes...every mother should do this. What is it about music and pictures of our children that makes us cry? Seeing those sweet faces and all the fun things we did this year really brought it to a nice close for me.

Here are a few things I want to share with you:

The Modsquadblog is coming! This is an exciting new blog for Mother's Of Daughters. I am thrilled to be co-laborating with these awesome mom's: Amy of Girlfriends Get Real, Megan of Halfpint House, and Traci of tsj photography. Between the 4 of us we have 15 girls. We found each other on Twitter of all places. The most amazing thing is that each of these women have a heart to raise girls who love and follow Jesus with passion. And, they also desire to encourage mom's who are raising daughters. We are hoping to launch this site in the next couple of weeks! If you have daughters or know anyone who does you can follow us now on Twitter @momsquadmoms and look for us soon on Facebook. I will let you know the blog launch date as it gets closer.

Next week be sure to check out the One Million Arrows Blog Tour right here. I have been so challenged to be a mom of purpose as I have been reading it. I can't wait to share it with you. I will also be guest posting for OMA on May 31, so be sure to check that out as well.

I have been blessed by the recent guests we have enjoyed on the 29lincolnavenue porch! I want to thank Michelle at SomeGirlsWebsite, Stef at Layton Family Joy, and Lara at My Adventure with God Unrehearsed for stopping by to hang out with us! My heart has been so encouraged by these great women of faith. I can't wait to see who stops by next! Maybe it will be you. Be sure to check out the submission guidelines here.

I hope you have a great weekend!

The Porch

2010-05-20T00:00:00.001-04:00

Don't you just love meeting new friends? I am so excited to introduce you to Lara. She is a new friend who has the cutest blog called My Adventures With God, Unrehearsed. Lara describes herself as "a woman under the grace of our mighty God who has walked through valleys of addiction, death, and betrayal and experienced the miraculous ability of God to bring victory out of seeming despair." I am honored that she wants to take some time to share her heart with us on the 29lincolnavenue porch. I think you will be blessed by this sweet story about her little boy and a our God who delights in us.

Secret Windows

I love the secret windows. From the "women only" room at the gym, I can peak at my kids while they play. Yesterday tears caught me by surprise.

My little guy was working hard. He stood on his tiptoes and reached with all he had for the top of the bookshelf. He carried Thomas to the table for a quick "read." Then the process repeated itself four more times.

At one point the book return did not cooperate. He tried and tried to get Elmo to tuck between Dora and Cookie Monster, but his little arms were just not long enough. The teacher sat close but unaware of his struggle. He never got frustrated. He never asked for help. He just kept trying...to no avail. Finally he laid Elmo down for a rest on the lower shelf.

And for some reason I started to cry. I wasn't sad. I was overtaken by my love for him. He was simply being himself--living, doing, moving about. And delight welled up in my spirit.

I realized that at that moment I was reflecting a tiny piece of God. He looks down from His heavenly throne and smiles upon His children. He watches us simply being ourselves--living, doing, moving about--and He loves immeasurably. We are His creation and He delights in His own. Rejoice today under the blanket of His favor--simply because you are His.

You bring Him delight simply because you are His! Don't you love that? Thank you Lara for encouraging our hearts today. Please be sure to visit Lara at her blog and leave a comment below to make her feel welcome to the 29lincolnavenue porch!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Words To Live By

2010-05-19T09:52:00.006-04:00

Captivated by this today from 1 John 4 as found in The Message:

^11-12My dear, dear friends, if God loved us like this, we certainly ought to love each other. No one has seen God, ever. But if we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and his love becomes complete in us—perfect love!

^17-18God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us....
^20-21If anyone boasts, "I love God," and goes right on hating his brother or sister, thinking nothing of it, he is a liar. If he won't love the person he can see, how can he love the God he can't see? The command we have from Christ is blunt: Loving God includes loving people. You've got to love both.
(emphasis mine)

What is the answer to my fear? My anger? My weariness? The love of God that dwells deeply within me. Oh Lord, I want to love like you today! Especially when it comes to my children...let me speak love and show them your great big heart for them.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Chair Time

2010-05-18T00:00:00.002-04:00

The day started with a bang. The girls clamored for their breakfast. Between the four of them there are about 15 requests.

As I finished up kitchen duties and moved to put the baby down for a nap I was immediately met by my four year old who wanted to play on the computer. I knew this was a good activity for her while I taught my two older girls. So, I said, "Let me get the big girls started on their work, you dressed and then mommy will put you on the computer."

Teaching my first grader is at best a challenge. I have to bring my "A" game ready for lessons. On this particular day I was overly tired, due to a teething baby and interrupted sleep the night before. As we were making some headway, my oldest burst into the room in tears. She didn't understand what she is reading and was having a meltdown. I sent her to room to finish her emotional breakdown.

Next, I fed the baby who had been crying for about 30 minutes. At this point, it was lunch time for the rest of us. Lunch, like breakfast had about 15 requests. While I was moving the baby to her play seat I realized she was dirty and needed to be changed.

After I changed her she spit up all down the front of me. I cleaned myself up and decided once again to put her in the play seat. As I was dong this, the sisters overwhelmed us to 'love' on her, which really means "hang on me."

This was the tipping point......I lost it verbally, tired, hungry, and overwhelmed by the needs of so many.

I admit, it wasn't pretty. And after placing the baby gently in the play seat I quickly gave myself a much needed time out. Sitting alone in my guest bedroom I had a long talk with the Lord. I cried out to Him. I asked for forgiveness. I told Him I could not do it without Him. I decided that even though I would really like to stay in that bedroom alone for the rest of the day, I needed to check on the kids.

When I returned to the kitchen my lunch had been made by my oldest.
3 of the girls were playing sweetly together.
The air was clear.
I was forgiven.
It was 12:52 pm.

Some days are just like that. It seems like everything goes wrong. And I blow it big time. But, in those moments I am so thankful by this verse:

There is therefore now no condemnation for those that are in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:1

I have been studying Romans 8 and this truth has truly captivated me. He does not condemn me. In fact later in Romans 8 it says He is for me. And nothing can ever separate me from that love. Even me at the tipping point.

Looking Forward,

Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-05-16T20:36:00.007-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts

The perfect birthday...

#248 Feet in the Sand

#249 A first trip to the beach

#253 & #256 Mud Pie Mojo & a cake from Krystal

Looking Forward,
Stacey

I Needed to Feel Small

2010-05-14T18:00:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I needed to feel small. To sit by the ocean's edge and hear the waves crash and stare out at the vast expanse of water and remember, that God is big and His love for me is endless.

Yesterday, I needed to feel small. To watch as my children play in the surf and dig for buried treasures. Because childhood lasts for only a brief minute or two, and you have to take lots of mental pictures to remember it was here at all.

Yesterday, I needed to feel small. To leave the sink full of dirty dishes behind and feel the sun on my face and know that tasks left undone can wait for another day.

Yesterday, I felt small. God was bigger and my soul was quieter. And it was the most glorious feeling I have felt in a long time.

Looking Forward,

Stacey

Your turn: Can you relate? Do you ever need to feel small and quiet? Where do you go?

The Porch

2010-05-13T00:00:00.001-04:00

Nothing refreshes me more than a chat with a good friend. Today, I am so glad that my friend, Stef, from Layton Family Joy is visiting the 29lincolnavenue porch! What I love about Stef is that she is real. She holds nothing back. And, she makes me laugh. I just like her! Today, she is sharing a story of big faith and a bigger God who delights in surprising us!

Blowing Bubbles

My 2yr old son has a new favorite outside hobby, he blows bubbles. It's very exciting for him because I no longer hold the bubbles nor the wand - he has complete control of the bubble making process.

And he's a huge success! He blows a few bubbles shouts with joy, "I did it I did it", smiles big and directs me to his latest accomplishment, "Look big bubbles mom - right there right there - big bubbles".

There is so much excitement over these bubbles I can't help but cheer him on, "yes - I see - big bubbles - YOU DID IT"!

Occasionally he is unsuccessful. All of them end up popping. Yet that does not stop him in the least - the process of making bubbles delights his little soul.

I see his heart - it's swollen with happiness and I wonder why I stopped blowing bubbles. I'm not talking about the sticky mess he's holding in his hands - but real life challenges with a chance of failure on the other side.

Have I grown so comfortable by surrounding myself with feel good easy moments that I do not take risks anymore?

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Last month I grabbed my bubble wand - my desire to write and encourage women for Christ - and started blowing bubbles. I put God at the focus of my blog - not myself. I sent out a few submissions to Christian organizations to be published. I started writing an online bible study.

Some bubbles popped immediately - another greatly received (the contract w/ DaySpring for my card). One even combined with another and ended up becoming a fantastic new opportunity I had not thought possible (contributing to Gather Inspirit blog). In all of the excitement that has happened in 1 month's time - I wildly shouted, "Look - I did it, BIG BUBBLES"!

I encourage you - do not allow the fear of what could might possibly maybe happen prevent you from ever trying!

Pick up your bubble wand and start blowing big bubbles again!

God is the MIGHTY God - not a might God!

Thanks Stef for reminding us of this amazing truth! Be sure to visit Stef and check out her blog Layton Family Joy. I know that you will be encouraged. Not only is she blowing bubbles, but she has agreed to be my roommate at the Relevant Blogging Conference in October. How fun is that?

Looking Forward,

Chair Time

2010-05-11T00:00:00.002-04:00

What chair time is really all about...

My 4 year old and her babysitter were playing a game last Wednesday in my big and cozy chair and a half. The sitter said, "This is a great chair, I just love it." My daughter replied, "This is Mommy's chair. My daddy got it for her. It is where she sits and talks to God." A few minutes later she left to go get a toy and said to the sitter, "Stay there, if God talks to you while I'm gone, you should listen."

Oh sweet Lord! I wonder at times if what I'm saying is making a difference. I praise you that my actions speak louder than my words! And Lord, thank you so much for meeting me each morning in this place. May I always be listening for you to speak, because little ears are too.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-05-09T21:31:00.006-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts....

My word for the year is thankfulness, from Colossians 3:16. Each week I am making a thankful list. My goal is to count 1,000 gifts. I pick one or two of these things and post it here, on Multitude Monday. I also link up with Ann Voskamp at A Holy Experience, who hosts a Gratitude Community. Please click the Multitude Monday button at the bottom of this post to visit with Ann and the rest of the Community and be encouraged.

#238 Having a mother who fears the Lord, prays for me daily,
and loves me no matter what.

#239 Becoming just like her.

Thankful,
Stacey

One Million Arrows

2010-05-07T07:51:00.009-04:00

Watch this....

Read this....

Join This....

One Million Arrows Blog Tour May 23-30 2010 right here at 29lincolnavenue.

Looking Forward,

Are You Weary?

2010-05-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

Hebrews 12:2-3

fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Today I am laying aside my sin that easily entangles, fixing my eyes on Jesus, and considering Him...so that I will not grow weary and lose heart. I am thinking about Him and how He was with His disciples. How he walked everywhere with them, and how really they were like children. Their constant care and training were exhausting. But the joy set before Him was their salvation...and mine.

I am so easily thrown off course. Lately by fatigue and weariness. But considering Him - all that He endured and knowing He understands bone tiredness brings me hope and the strength I need!

Looking Forward,

Chair Time

2010-05-04T00:00:00.001-04:00

Prayer for me is like breathing. I find myself in a constant conversation with the Lord. I know, that if my kids know anything about me is that I pray, a lot. Lately, the prayers have been out loud and more desperate, "Oh Lord, please help me, I need You to make it through this day!" I believe firmly that prayer works. God hears my call, and more importantly that I am the one transformed as I do. I could write a good many things about prayer and the legacy I want to leave my children. But, I heard this quote the other day and it truly sums up my heart. I am not one to say something that others have said better. So I thought I would share this with you:

"We must live for God out of the prayer closet if we want to meet God in the prayer closet. We must bless God with praying lives if we want to have God's blessing in the prayer closet. We must do God's will in our lives if we want to have God's ear in the prayer closet. .....If we want to have have God's presence in the prayer closet, God must have us out of the prayer closet. There is no way of praying to God, except by living to God. The prayer closet is not a confessional, simply, but the hour of holy communion, of high and sweet communication, and of intense intercession."
E.M.Bounds from his chapter on Prayerless Praying

My heart, my passion, my prayer is that my life outside the prayer closet will make my time in it filled with sweeter communication and intense intercession. And, that as little eyes are watching the line between the two will be hard to see.

Looking Forward,

Multitude Monday

2010-05-03T14:24:00.004-04:00

Counting 1,000 gifts...

#223 Celebrating 4 years of princesses, twirling, and passion.

Thankful,
Stacey

The Porch

2010-04-29T00:00:00.001-04:00

I have been looking for a good day to open the 29lincolnavenue Porch, and today is looking like a great day! The weather here, has been amazing, I have a great story to share with you compliments of my friend Michelle, and the grill is fired up! So, kick your shoes off, grab some sweet tea and pull up a rocking chair for some pre-summer fun!

First of all, I want to share with you the most amazing Grilled Chicken Recipe. I promise, this is worthy of your recipe book!

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 clove garlic
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of pepper
2 squeezes of honey from the cute honey bear bottle (about 1 tablespoon)
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (4 oz each)

Combine everything except the chicken and mix well. Pour over chicken. Marinate covered in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Grill chicken until done.

While that is cooking, I want to introduce you to my friend Michelle. When I came across this story on her blog, Some Girl's Website, I actually laughed out loud. I love sharing a joy story with you to open Porch time. I want this to be a place where others can share their story. Some stories will be like this one - pure joy! Others, might be about a faith step or a lesson learned. Either way, you will come away feeling like you just had a great chat with a new friend! This story also fits perfectly because we are hooking up today with Robynn @ Our Homeschool Home for her Weekly Grill Challenge. Enjoy...

I Would NEVER Homeschool! But Celebrity School...

My boys and I were driving in the car on our way to enrichment classes the other day when my oldest one started telling me all about the race car he was going to have in the future. How fast it was going to be, how it was going to look, how he was going to drive it on the street, not on a track, but that he wouldn't drive crazy, and then he said the sweetest thing... "And Eli can ride in the back, 'cause he's my best friend." I thought that was SO sweet! And it made me so thankful that I homeschool... so glad that they have extra time together.

You see, I didn't start off wanting to do it. In fact, when people asked me if I was going to homeschool (because I was a teacher by trade and most of my church friends did) I would always answer, "Absolutely............ NOT!" There was NO way I would ever homeschool! I need a break!

Then, last year, a friend at church asked if I homeschooled and I said, "NO WAY!" Her response made me scratch my head. She said, "I guess God hasn't laid that on your heart yet." huhhh?

Now, I'm not one to say anyone "should" be homeschooling or not homeschooling... you know how I feel about "should-ing." I feel strongly that parents need to look at their children's needs and learning styles as well as their needs and parenting styles to make a decision on what's best educationally for their children. Every child and parent is different. But this is what happened to us....

After a long strand of things, which I just spent a lot of time writing but were all erased with the mistaken push of some little button, I finally decided to try it. I admit I wasn't fond of the idea. I couldn't even say the "H" word for the longest time. It wasn't until I was talking with one of my neighbors and mentioned the fact that my husband was quitting his corporate job, and we were going to be able to travel with his photography business, and because of that we were going to "you know, the H word," that I finally came to grips with it. She said, "That's what the celebrities do." Wallah! I wasn't "weirdo homeschooling" I was "celebrity schooling!" I know that sounds strange, but I had made homeschooling out to be something those weird people do with those weird kids... this new view helped me rethink the whole issue. My children and I didn't have to be weird to homeschool, and we didn't have to be weird because we homeschooled! It's too bad homeschooling carries such a bad rap.

Now that I do it... I LOVE IT! We have been able to take a two week road trip up to New York in the fall, several little trips here and there, spend most Wednesdays with Poppy teaching Social Studies (who is coming over in a little bit to plant a garden with the boys) and, most importantly, we've been able to "just hang out" together. All of this has fostered a wonderful relationship between my boys. Enrichment classes and Wednesday playgroup/Bible study helps me get the break that I need and him to get the socialization he needs. The rest of the time we are learning together, in a modified Charlotte Mason style.... a lot of life learning, some book learning.

Now, I am SO thankful we've homeschooled this year. People ask me what I plan on doing at junior high and I say, "I'm homeschooling this year (first grade) and we'll see what happens next." I have no plans yet. I did sign my oldest one up for a full day of enrichment next year at his wonderful little "school." But, I will play each year as it comes.For now, I'll press on with "pulling teeth" in reading in order to foster sweet relationships in my children with each other, their family, and God. I'm glad He did lay it on my heart! ♥

Btw, I write this knowing homeschooling isn't for everyone... but if you have an inkling of desire, I'd encourage you to consider it for just a little while. It gave me comfort knowing that most schools accept students at any point during the year (and it gave my son motivation knowing that... ;) ). I won't say it's easy, but I can now look back at this year and say it's been worth it!

Thanks Michelle for spending time on The Porch! Now, go visit her:
Blog: Some Girl's Website
Twitter: @SomeGirlsTweets
Facebook: Some Girl's Website

And, find some more great recipe's with Robyn at Our Home School Home:

Looking Forward,
Stacey

And The Winner Is....

2010-04-28T09:10:00.004-04:00

Comment # 3 from Icitea....Clare! She blogs at A Teacup Of Wimsy. She is going to be taking this beauty to the beach this summer!

Special thanks to Tiffanie for making it all possible. Please visit her Facebook Fan Page and order one of her amazing bags!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Chair Time

2010-04-26T15:31:00.005-04:00

When I was a little girl, I attended Vacation Bible School each summer in a non-airconditioned church that had the most beautiful stained glass windows I have ever seen. I sat underneath the colored light streaming in from the morning sun and said this pledge:

I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God's Holy Word.
I will make it a lamp unto my feet, a light unto my path and
I will hide it's Words in my heart that
I might not sin against God.

I'm not sure I could write anything better than that today about why God's Word allows me to leave a legacy that will pull my children to Jesus. My legacy or story, is pointless without them knowing that the one thing that makes it possible for me to draw breath are His very Words that I read each morning in my chair time. His Word shows me the way. His word daily hidden in my heart keeps sin from taking too much territory.

My prayer is that I will allow His Word to richly dwell in my heart. That I will diligently seize teachable moments throughout the day to speak the Word to my children. But more than that, they will be able to read it in my face, see it in how I love their father, and experience it as I lay down my life and seek to be the mother He has called me to be. I have so far to go. More failures lately than victories. Gratefully, He is a patient teacher and class is always in session.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

"If you would follow on to know the Lord, come at once to the open Bible expecting it to speak to you. Do not come with the notion that it is a thing which you my push around at your convenience. It is more than a thing, it is a voice, a word, the very Word of the living God."
Pursuit of God, page 82
A.W. Tozer

Multitude Monday

2010-04-25T22:45:00.004-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts...

#210 Love notes from my girls
found in just the right place
at just the right time.

(you are a great mom, and I want you to know that
even when you are mad at us, and we are mad at you,
you are the best mom we could ever hope for.)

Thankful,
Stacey

Tiffanie Totes Giveaway

2010-04-22T22:29:00.009-04:00

I am so excited to celebrate you today with a super awesome giveaway! I have been overwhelmed by your support and encouragement over the past few months! And to say thank you I am partnering with my friend Tiffanie of Tiffanie Totes to give away the cutest summer bag ever to one lucky 29lincolnavenue follower!

Tiffanie started her business a few years back and it took off like crazy. It was so popular that she found herself sewing nonstop. This amazing mom of 2, set her business on the back burner to focus instead on home schooling her boys. I love that her heart is in the right place! Recently, she picked up her needle and thread again and began turning out items like this:

My girls would so love this!

Matching Mother Daughter Bags....can we say southern girls?

There are no words.....but sweetness!

So, you love her already and you can visit her on her Facebook Fanpage Tiffanie Totes right now! She would be glad to take your order for any of her awesome bags or accessories. Everything is custom made just for you! But, first you need to enter the giveaway! Here is the bag that Tiffanie will personalize for you if you win!

Isn't she lovely? Can't you just picture her sitting by your side on the beach?

So, here is all you have to do to win! Be a follower of 29lincolnavenue and leave me a comment. If you are already a follower, just say, "I want the bag and I am a follower." Or, "I'm a follower, pick me!" Something along those lines. If you are not a follower yet, here is all you have to do: See all the sweet smiling faces under the word follow? Click the "Follow" button and you can have your lovely picture there too! Once you are a follower, leave a comment below. The entry is the comment! Please, only one comment per person. Easy, huh?

The contest will be open until Monday April 26 at noon. I will Random.org to pick a winner from the comments left on this post. After that, I will put the winner in touch with Tiffanie and she will make the bag just for you!

Again, thank you so much for stopping by 29linolnavenue. I really do have the most awesome friends here. I hope that you are encouraged each time you visit and that you come back often!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. This contest is open only to those living in the US and Canada.

Sweet Deal

2010-04-21T08:37:00.006-04:00

Girls, do you love a sweet deal?
How about shopping at home in your PJ's?
Do you like to give beautiful gifts that are unique?
Well, I just have to pass along a great gift idea that allows you to enjoy all three of these things plus the chance to win $400 to the charity of your choice & a $250 Visa Gift Card.

Curious? Well, meet Sarah Mae from Like a Warm Cup of Coffee:

She knows a gal who not only loves chocolate, but is ultra talented:

She makes these darling earrings:

And now for the sweet part: If you go here and buy a set of these lovelies for $10 plus s&h before April 30, you could win $400 to the charity of your choice and a$250 Visa Gift card for yourself! And that is not all...the extra cherry on top of this sweet deal is the winner will also receive a 2nd pair of earrings to give away or keep for yourself!

For full details, stop by and see Sarah Mae at Like a Warm Cup of Coffee. And be sure to take a look around, she loves Jesus and good cup of joe... two qualities I find irresistible.

Have a great day,
Stacey

P.S. I picked the red pair!

Chair Time

2010-04-20T00:00:00.003-04:00

I have been thinking a lot about stories. Specifically, the story my children will tell about me when they are older. The story they will tell their children. This is my legacy.

I am reading a book called The Story Factor by Annette Simmons. She says, "Other methods of influence - persuasion, bribery, or charismatic appeals - are push strategies. Story is a pull strategy." See I want to live my life in such a way to pull my kids to Jesus. Not push them. I want my life to draw them closer to Him.

So how do I do that exactly? This of course is the million dollar question and where I must face the cold hard truth. I can't just hope the story turns out in the end okay in the end. There is too much at stake. I have a part to play as well. God is the author, but He does require that I do my part. For me that means I am to pursue Him every day through His Word, pray like crazy that His story will shine through my life, and to be in a small group where I am accountable to others.

And when all that is said and done, I have to tell them, every day, all day long as we are "sitting in our house, walking along the way, when we rise up and when we lie down..." (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). But with kids, our stories are told not only in our words, but in our actions. So as I am telling them the story, they are simultaneously watching it unfold before their eyes. My prayer is that these two versions of the story line up and will impress upon their hearts the image of Christ.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. For the next couple of weeks I will expand on this idea during Chair time. I would like to spend a week each on Bible, Prayer, and the power of a Small Group as it pertains to our Legacy: The Story Our Children Will Tell. If you have any thoughts, please leave a comment or join the conversation in the 29lincolnavenue blogfrog commmunity.

Multitude Monday

2010-04-19T07:17:00.004-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts...

#197 A few more hours of sleep this week.
#205 Six months old today.

Thankful,
Stacey

Ultimate Blog Party 2010 After Party Post

2010-04-18T14:42:00.003-04:00

I love people. I am energized by them. But, this past week I had the chance to meet so many people I could not keep up! Many stopped by 29lincolnavenue to say hello and to look around! I hope they felt welcomed and encouraged. Somewhere, they are all sipping their Coffee Awesomeness and trying to recover from all the partying!

I also had the chance to do some visiting of my own. I am amazed at the number of super talented and creative bloggers I found. I wanted to share 3 with you that I will be adding to my daily reading list.

1. Robyn at Our Homeschool Home is so fun. I have seen her around the blog world before. Isn't it nice when you keep bumping into someone and you finally realize, "They are the real deal!" and you take the time to get to know them? She is a delight. I like that she has a heart for her home and her family, she takes great pictures (I am so jealous) and she wears yoga pants and is not afraid to tell you about it.

2. Joy is truly that - a joy! She blogs at The Stay At Home Missionary and this girl has her heart in the right place! She knows her mission field, speaks the truth and she desires to encourage women. I want to be like her! And, she has the most beautiful family I have seen.

3. Finally, how could you not want to know more about Fishmama? Her blog is called, Life As Mom. It is such a nice place to visit because not only is it well organized, but Fishmama really wants to help moms in the journey of motherhood! She desires to bring joy into your life and has great ideas to make your life easier. Can I hear an amen? I know I'm preaching to the choir, but who really wants to help us out as mama's? Fishmama that's who!

I hope that you will take the time to visit these three lovely ladies and their blog homes. I know you will be glad you took the time! I am looking forward to the next few weeks and all that I have to share with you! The Porch will be open for some sweet tea and encouragement, I will be hosting a giveaway to celebrate reaching 50+ followers, and hopefully with fingers crossed our new blog design will be debuting soon! Meanwhile, join the 29lincolnavenue blog frog community! This is the place we can get to know each other a little better. It is super easy, just click on the icon, follow the directions and start chatting it up! I have started a few discussions so feel free to comment or start a new one!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

The Friday Five

2010-04-16T00:00:00.001-04:00

The first time I saw Cece Owens was at a women's retreat our church sponsored about 5 year ago. She was speaking on the topic of home schooling. I remember learning a lot from her and being easily drawn in by her warm and gentle words. The second half of the talk was given by her teenage daughter, Molly. I was completely captivated by Molly and her maturity. She stood in front of about 50 or so adult women and spoke from her heart. And I thought to myself, "This is the girl I want my children to be like!" I knew two things for sure: her mother was very proud and that she had to be an amazing woman to raise such a well poised girl.

Cece and her husband, Dutch, have 4 lovely children - 3 of which are college age and beyond. She has home schooled her children for 21 years and is finishing well with her blessed caboose Anna. You can see a picture of her beautiful family below.

Part of Cece's story that truly amazes me is that she and Dutch were married for 3 1/2 years without children, divorced, and separated for 2 years and then remarried for 27 years. Cece is real, transparent and the perfect person for our Friday Five Woman of Inspiration! I am honored that she would take the time to answer a few questions for us!

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

I am third generation born in Orlando, Florida. I was born in Orange Memorial Hospital, now known as Orlando Regional Medical Center. I have lived in three houses my entire life and they are all within a one and a half mile radius of each other. To say Orlando is home sweet home would be an understatement.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO?

I am reading Chip Ingram's book, Good to Great in God's Eyes. He speaks of ten practices that all great Christians have in common. With three of our four children either in college, married or living away, my sights are now set on the days God gives me and finishing well. For starters, I want to dream great dreams, pursue great people and take great risks. Some years ago I heard the statement, "The value of anything is the price it pays in eternity". My next "looking forward to" is just beginning to unfold but my desire is that it have the idelible mark of eternity.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE OR PASSAGE?

Isaiah 43:18-19
"Do not call to mind the former things,
Or ponder things of the past.
Behold, I will do something new,
Now it will spring forth,
Will you not be aware of it?
I will even make a roadway in the wilderness,
Rivers in the desert."

I believe we all have something in our lives that we need to leave behind. God's desire is that we no longer call it to mind or ponder the past. He longs to do something new as we ask! The last sentence of this scripture blows me away, "I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert". When is the last time you have seen rivers in the desert? Only God!

WHAT IS THE ONE BOOK THAT HAS IMPACTED YOU MOST OTHER THAN THE BIBLE?

I would have to say Oswald Chamber's devotional My Utmost for His Highest. I have devoured these daily devotions for years and without fail, God meets me in a new way, imparts a new thought or allows a new appropriation of scripture on any given day. One of my favorites is found on August 18th where it reads, "Discouragement is disenchanted self love and self love may be love of my devotion to Jesus--not love for Jesus Himself". When I feel discouraged I now ask myself if it is related to my love of self or God? Just a sampling of Oswald's words worth pondering.

WHO INSPIRES ME?
Transparent people inspire me! The older I get, the deeper my understanding of the truth that God is sovereign over my whole life. God is writing a story about each of us, a story to be read and told. Most books have many chapters, some encouraging and easy to read, others more difficult. Our journeys are full of mountains and valleys, successes and failures. Why are we more reluctant to speak of our failures as readily as we speak of our successes? Over 25 years ago, God impressed upon me the value of being transparent about a failure in my life. He taught me that it makes me real to people and gives other people permission to be real in return. As much as I resisted speaking about it, I now believe it to be the turning point in my Christian walk, It has been a process but I try to live my life caring more about God's reputation than my own. We are all insecure, afraid of letting people know who we fully are. I don't always win the battle with transparency but the masks I mastered many years ago are slowly being removed, allowing a life of authenticity and being real.

The Owens Family

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Stories

2010-04-15T08:41:00.004-04:00

"Peter's mother put her arm around him suddenly, and
hugged him in silence for a minute.
Then she said: 'Don't you think it's rather nice to think that we're in
a book that God's writing? If I were writing a book, I might make mistakes.
But God knows how to make the story end just right--in the way that is best for us.'"

Taken from The Railway Children by E. Nesbit
page 243

I love a good read. I am especially touched when a book intersects with what God is teaching me . This passage from the Railway Children spoke loudly to me this week. You see, I have been thinking a lot about how stories connect us to others, make us real, and can have a powerful influence upon others.

Mostly though, I'm grateful that the author and perfecter of my story knows me well enough to pen a story that is just right for me. (Hebrews 12:2) There are a few things I would personally edit, but the power of a good book is that all the good and bad work together in the end.

What about you, read any good books lately that spoke loudly to you? Leave a comment below and tell us what story captured you heart and why. And be sure to stop by tomorrow for The Friday Five.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. Holley at Dayspring has an amazing series about the Story of our Lives. She blogs at Heart to Heart with Holley. You can follow along with this 21 day challenge by clicking here.

Chair Time

2010-04-13T00:00:00.001-04:00

The truth is I am a fairly optimistic person. Lately though, I have been tired. You know the feeling. You are so tired you actually hurt.

Yesterday was a day. Let's just say that I had my limit. My 10 year old dissolved into tears over a timed math test and my 7 year old discovered how to make it snow in Central Florida. (hint: think styrofoam). I gave up and decided to head to our community pool. Physical education is a school subject after all! Besides, I thought a little sunshine might be good for me, too. Earlier, I had thrown up one of those prayers to Jesus, "Lord, Help me. I can't do this today. Send encouragement." Luckily, He delivers poolside.

I was watching the girls play another round of "Which mermaid are you?", and the lady who cleans the pool stopped by. This is what I have always called her. We struck up a conversation about the nice day and the lack of respect some kids have these days for public property. But then the conversation turned. She saw my sweet 6 month old and said, "Four girls, that is so great!" I was immediately encouraged because most people laugh or apologize to me for having four girls. As it turns out, she is a homeschooling mother of 5, and Her youngest is 17. Instantly, we had a connection. We spoke for about 15 minutes and my heart was lifted. When I left she said, "Keep going, it is worth it. And if you need a break, I live down the road."

I can't tell you how loved I felt. His great big love for me is wider and deeper than I will ever know. (Ephesians 3:18). Jesus knows when I need to be encouraged. He hears my cries for help. And He is willing to use whoever or whatever is available. Even pool cleaning ladies. Her name is Elaine. If I disappear for awhile, you can find me at her house.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. Technically speaking I was in a chair...this time it just happened to be poolside.

Words To Live By

2010-04-12T13:46:00.003-04:00

The Nester is having a giveaway today in association with Dayspring. They are giving away beautiful signs called book crops from the Dayspring store. You can even customize your own! Here is one I would love to hang in my home:

So check out the lovely Nester and then hopover to Dayspring...they are quite amazing as well!

Looking forward,
Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-04-11T22:24:00.007-04:00

Counting 1,000 gifts.....
#188 Your speaking voice...
At times gentle so I have to be quiet to listen,
at times specific so I know without a doubt it is you,
at times bold so I know who You are....but You are always speaking to me.

#190 Posing with her Bible on Easter and learning to listen, too.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Ultimate Blog Party & Coffee Awesomeness

2010-04-08T22:51:00.011-04:00

Have you ever decided very last minute to join a party? What to wear? What to bring? Well, I am meeting up with some new friends to join the Ultimate Blog Party sponsored by 5MinutesforMom. They have over 1,000 blogs connected to this crazy event that lasts a whole week. Fortunately, I can attend in my mommy uniform of a casual t-shirt, jeans, and flip flops! But when I thought about what I wanted to share with all the other party goers, I just had to grab what I had on hand! So, here is today's original post, but it is super for this party! It has a great party drink for all you late night bloggers! Check out the Coffee Awesomeness below! And, as you read further down the post you will notice a link to a great article written by Problogger. A perfect for a house warming gift for every blogger! If you want to learn more about me, you can click here! I hope you enjoy your visit can come back soon!

Congratulations! You made it to Friday! Now, here is something that will make your weekend! I call it Coffee Awesomeness....

Ingredients:
8 cups of brewed coffee
1 can fat free sweetened condensed milk

Directions:
Mix it. Chill it. Serve over ice. Yum!

Next Friday, I will have another inspiring woman for The Friday Five! Her name is Cece and you will be blown away by her wisdom! Did you meet Beth our first Friday Five Woman? You can Click here and read about who inspires her! Meanwhile, are you a blogger? I just read this awesome article at Problogger, and I want to share it with you! It is called 13 Quick Tips To Make Your Blog Stand Out From the Crowd. Read it while you are sipping your Coffee Awesomeness Saturday morning. My husband and I are hard at work on a new blog home for 29 Lincoln Avenue! I can't wait to share it with you. You are going to love it! More on that later! Thank you so much for spending time with me this week. I love your comments and appreciate you stopping by. I hope you were encouraged. Have a super weekend!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. The Ultimate Blog Party also has great prizes! If you are not linking up as a blogger to the event, you can be eligible to win the prizes by leaving a comment at the Ultimate Blog Party website. If I were to win I would love:

#31 $20 Amazon Gift Certificate
#32 $25 to Target
#39 Hilton Garden 2 night stay

Or any of these awesome prizes will do! #40,#56 #74,#97! All amazing items!

Relevant

2010-04-07T16:00:00.000-04:00

"Tickets go on sale tonight at midnight," I said.
"They do? How many?" My husband inquired.
"Only 200." I replied.
"Buy one, I will make it work. I support you 100%."

And so began my journey to Relevant 2010, a Christian conference for bloggers. It will be held in Harrisburg, PA this coming October. The gals behind Relevant, Sarah Mae, Jessica Heights, and Dana Adams met through their blogs and in person at the Type-A Mom conference. Here is what they said about that meeting:

While chatting in a hotel room in the wee hours of the night, a spark ignited, and a simple conversation about the desire to attend a Christian women’s blogging conference soon turned into a heart fire of creating one. Such began not only a friendship, but a conference for women who want to be relevant in the larger blog and social media world, while also blessing their families and living a fully integrated life with their faith and family.

When I read this description my heart said, "Wait a minute that is me!" And apparently I began to talk about it to my husband. A lot. So much so, that he was willing to do whatever it took to get me to the conference. When I asked him why, he said, "This is the first thing in a long time you have been passionate about. And I want you to pursue it because it I think it will truly bless you."

One of the other things that attracted me to this conference is the amazing line up of speakers. First, they want to fill your heart with encouragement through the Word of God. Then they want to connect you with like minded women. Technology and blogging will be addressed of course, but it is not the only reason for the conference. There is a higher purpose at work here!

So with the Lord's invitation and my husband's support I'm going. And yes, you will probably hear much more in the days ahead about this giant leap of faith. I feel like Bob, "Baby steps on the plane....baby steps to the conference...baby steps to get my coffee mug autographed by Sarah Mae..."

I believe there are a few more tickets left for this one of a kind conference. If you are a Christian woman who delights in being encouraged, you blog or read any blogs (hint you are reading mine!), you secretly wish you could write like Ann Voskamp, or save money like Crystal Paine, or just want to sit near Kimba in hopes that some of her creativity will rub off on you.. then run quickly to The Relevant Conference website and buy a ticket. I know you will be glad you did!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. I am also connecting my post to Gather Inspirit. It's purpose is to encourage bloggers and has grown out of the Relevant community. They are featuring one Relevant attendee per day for the next 196 days until the conference begins. Today, it just happens to be me. How cool is that? Even if you are not going to join me at the conference, stop by Gather Inspirit, meet some awesome Christian bloggers and be encouraged!

Chair Time

2010-04-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

Ephesians 1:18,19
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe..

I have been praying this for my husband for well over a year now. I love praying through these verses and asking God show him that there is surpassing great power toward him every day of his life...the same power that raised Christ from the dead. It is my earnest prayer that he live in victory and not defeat.

Have you read a little book by Joseph Stowell called Simply Jesus? I've had it for some time in my guest bedroom. I thought it would be a good book to read to prepare my heart for Easter. The title is so inviting! Last night I read this awesome quote:

The Resurrection is at its very essence the ultimate victory over sin, death and hell. All the forces of evil spent their best efforts to permanently ground their Archenemy behind a massive, immovable stone--guarded by imperial guards from the most powerful empire on earth.
And then with

a word from God ---the merest breath--

death was defeated, and sin and the forces of hell no longer held sway. Jesus lives and in Him the power of sin is rendered weak and ineffective." p 61

Oh my that is rich! In Christ we have victory over sin - it is rendered powerless and ineffective. Hell no longer holds sway! Hell brought all it had to the table and it took one word from the Father and death and its vice grip was demolished!

Lord,
Thank you that the Resurrection means that there is surpassing great power for those that believe. That you desire us to live in victory - not defeat. May we rise up to meet that calling for the hope and glory of all that you plan for us this day!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-04-05T00:00:00.001-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts.....

#166 A beautiful spring day picking strawberries.

#167 Seven girls together having fun.

#168 Having sweet fellowship with a friend.

#169 Rejoicing that their mama, my friend Samantha is cancer free!!!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Easter

2010-04-02T00:00:00.001-04:00

Looking Forward,
Stacey

10 Reasons Why I Blog

2010-03-31T17:42:00.000-04:00

1. God called me to do it. After praying for a year, I finally said yes.
2. It is a creative outlet for me.
3. I love words!
4. I have a passion to connect with other women and encourage them.
5. I saw Julie & Julia and was inspired!
6. It is a great keepsake for my girls as they get older.
7. I have horrible handwriting and this makes #6 possible.
8. I don't have a crafty bone in my body.
9. I get to meet and interact with amazing people.
10. Just like this fashionable lady I found at The Graphics Fairy, the possibilities are endless if you dream big!

How about you? Why did you start blogging?

Chair Time

2010-03-30T00:00:00.002-04:00

Do you ever feel like you are just surviving your life? I do, and if I'm keeping it real, that is truly how I have been living lately. I find myself reacting to life instead of being Spirit filled and purposeful. So last week I was reading one of my favorite devotionals called, "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young. I love this little book. It is written as though Jesus were talking to you directly. On March 19, the entry said:

Since I dwell in you, you are fully equipped to be holy. Pause before responding to people or situations, giving my Spirit space to act through you. Hasty words and actions leave no room for Me; this is atheistic living.
Page 82

I was intrigued by the word pause. According to dictionary.com it means:

v. To dwell or linger
n. A cessation of activity because of uncertainty.
A break or rest to emphasize meaning.

Last year, my word for the year was dwell. So when I read that definition I smiled. I am to "dwell (in Christ) before I respond to people or situations (i.e. my children, husband...)" As I dwell or pause in Him, it gives the Spirit room and space to act through me. Now there is a novel idea.

Then I was reminded of this today:

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness
Psalm 103:8

I noticed immediately that it does not say, "Stacey is compassionate and gracious. Stacey is slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness...." But the beauty of it is, Jesus is in me. And as I pause and give Him space He can and will be those things through me.

Oh Lord, I have so much to learn. I am so grateful that you are gracious and compassionate with me. Please give me gentle reminders this week to pause and let you be all you can be through me.

Looking Forward
Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-03-29T00:00:00.002-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts.....

#159 He would have died if I were the only one.

Thankful,
Stacey

The Cry of My Heart

2010-03-26T07:43:00.004-04:00

Lord,

You see them, but do they see you? Help me to teach them how to develop an inward gaze of the soul upon you. That they may look forward and be satisfied with great expectation to your will for their lives. You speak to them, but are they listening? Do they understand that your Word is written to lead and to guide them through this crazy mixed up noisy world? And that your Word leads them straight to your heart and into your embrace?

How can I, as their mother begin to teach them to behold you in every moment and to listen for your speaking voice? Show me, for if I teach them anything today, let it be these truths. The cry of my heart is that they would:

love you,
obey your voice,
and hold fast to you
all of their days....
Dueteronomy 30:20

Looking Forward,

More Worth Mentioniong

2010-03-25T00:00:00.004-04:00

On The Speaking Voice

The facts are that God is not silent, has never been silent. It is the nature of God to speak. The second person of the Holy Trinity is called The Word. The Bible is the inevitable outcome of God's continuous speech. It is the infallible declaration of His mind for us put into our familiar human words...If you would follow on to know the Lord, come at once to the open Bible expecting it to speak to you. Do not come with the notion that it is this thing which you may push around at your convenience. It is more than a thing; it is a voice, a word, the very Word of the Living God.
A.W. Tozer
The Pursuit of God
Pages 77,8

Lord you are speaking, give me ears to listen.
Looking Forward,
Stacey

Worth Mentioning

2010-03-24T10:00:00.004-04:00

On Beholding (seeing) God

When we lift our inward eyes to gaze upon god we are sure to meet friendly eyes gazing back at us, for it is written that the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout all the earth. The sweet language of experience is "Thou God seest me" (Genesis 16:13). When the eyes of the soul looking out meet the eyes of God looking in, heaven has begun right here on this earth.
A.W. Tozer The Pursuit of God
pages 85,86

Lord teach me to perpetually gaze upon thee. Thank you that as I do, I see you gazing back at me.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Chair Time

2010-03-23T09:01:00.004-04:00

"Abundance is at the very heart of who I am".... from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

I love that Jesus walked with a band of totally real, normal people like me. He did not surround himself with religious leaders. I appreciate His patience with their slowness to learn. It gives me great hope. I also like that He involved them in His teaching and even more important in His miracles. They did not just see them,they lived them. See, I learn mainly by doing. Ask my very sweet husband about teaching me how to use Photoshop. I have to feel and experience it to understand.

Today I read from John 6:1-14. As usual, multitudes of people where following Jesus. He called to Philip and said, "Where are we to buy bread that these may eat?" Now I know, Jesus had a plan all along. He was inviting Philip to be part of the work He was about to do. I love his answer, "That would cost a lot of money" (paraphrase mine). Andrew must have been a few steps ahead of Philip. He offered five barley loaves a couple of fish to Christ from some child whose blessed mother had sent him with a lunch that day. I can just see her running after him out the door, "Honey! Don't forget your lunch!" Little did she know she would be part of a plan to feed thousands! Can you imagine the dinner conversation in that house?

I love this part of the story. Jesus took the loaves and the fish. Thanked His Father and distributed the food to the people. They were filled. And then so wisely He asked the disciples to gather the left overs. Twelve baskets full. One for each of the disciples to hold, see, smell, and touch. Brilliant teaching from the Master.

So I ask myself, how often do I live on the 5 barley loaves of my own effort? When do I settle for what I can come up with in my own strength? If I take and lay it at the feet of Jesus He would bless it and delight in giving me from His abundance. I am not talking about money here. But my own self effort of teaching, mothering, and loving others. What I have to offer in my own power is no comparison. My bread may cure the munchies, but will it give life and point others to Christ?

"...and the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Thy house; They drink their fill of the abundance of Thy house.."
Psalm 36: 7-8

Lord,
I thank you that you have a plan. That you are blessedly patient with my slowness to learn. And that you delight in pouring forth your abundance upon every area of my life that I give to you.

Looking forward,
Stacey

P.S. When have you given Jesus your 5 loaves and few small fish and seen Him do a work only He could do? What was the result? Who else got to take part in the miracle? You can leave a comment or use McLinky to link to a blog post! Thanks!

Multitude Monday

2010-03-22T08:50:00.004-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts.....

#145 The sweetness of a rare Saturday afternoon date with my husband.

(We went to a photography exhibit at our local art museum and had the best BBQ sandwich I have ever eaten. I also enjoyed this cupcake....

She wasn't too bad herself!)

Thankful,
Stacey

P.S. What are you thankful for today?

How Will You Prepare?

2010-03-19T13:37:00.004-04:00

How will you prepare for Easter?

Oh how I love Ann Voskamp at A Holy Experience. I can get lost in her words for hours. Today, I have been pondering this question she asked early in the week.

We do a great job of preparing for Christmas, in fact we love the Advent season at our house. But I have always struggled with how to prepare my children's hearts for Easter. I want them to understand the sacrifice, to embrace it and to rejoice in new life...all the Cross has to offer. Yet, I don't want to overburden their sweet faith with the heaviness the cross brings as well. So I am thinking and praying (always a good idea) about how to bring true meaning and anticipation into this season as we have the celebration of His birth.

In the mean time, the lovely Anne has posted some great ideas over at A Holy Experience. You should really check it out!

And after you are thoroughly blessed by her love for Jesus and way with words, you can click here and become a Facebook Fan of 29 Lincoln Avenue! I'd be so blessed! (Yes, I'm back to loving my technology!)

Have super weekend,
Stacey

P.S. How are you preparing for Easter?

Technology Blah Blah Blah

2010-03-17T22:20:00.007-04:00

Technology is great when it works. But today, it has not been my friend. For some unknown reason, my blog was popping up a mysterious log in for my Twitter Account. As a result you were not able to actually read any of my posts. My super amazing husband was able to figure out the problem and it is now fixed. Whew! One down, one to go. Now, my email account keeps kicking me out and demanding me to enter in a password. Sometimes when I enter the password, it let's me access my email. At other times it rejects me. It reminds me of Soup Nazi. "No email for you!" Anyway, I'm pretty sure I should just call it a night and go bed. Super amazing husband has gone for a walk, so email will have to wait till morning.

I am so sorry if you were effected by the Twitter glitch. To make it up to you, I am going to share an awesome recipe with you. I made it for a lovely evening out with some neat women last night!

Take two dear friends...

Put them together like this....

And enjoy with a a drizzle of chocolate and a cup of decaf!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies

1 brownie mix
Vegetable oil,egg, & water as called for on the brownie mix
1 pouch chocolate chip cookie mix
Butter and egg called for on the cookie pouch

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease bottom of 13 x 9 pan.
2. Make brownie mix and put in bottom of pan.
3. Make cookie mix and drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto brownie batter.
4. Press down lightly.
5. Bake 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted 2 inches from edge comes out clean.
6. Serve with drizzled chocolate.

Now, don't you feel better?
Looking Forward,
Stacey

Chair Time Tuesday

2010-03-16T00:00:00.005-04:00

I've decided to make Chair Time a regular Tuesday post and provide a place where we can share with one another what God is teaching us. You may leave a comment or use the Mc Linky to connect to a blog post that you have written. Just be sure to use the URL that directs us to your specific blog post. Also, please provide a link to 29linconlavenue so we can find our way back easier. I can't wait to see what God is writing on your heart as you sit with Him each day.

The Lord mostly speaks to me when I am sitting with the Him in the quiet of the morning, pouring out my heart over His open Word. Sometimes, He chooses other times and places to begin a conversation. This week it was in worship.

Sunday morning I had been faced with the good, the bad, and the ugly. The good of healthy vibrant children all needing me in the same moment. The bad of no sleep and the the ugliness of my own sin ringing in my ears as yelled at them. It was not pretty. And I knew it.

Later, during worship time we were preparing our hearts. Clearly, this time of preparation was just for me. We sang a verse that I had never heard before that went like this:

I'm choosing to die to myself and my pride,
what a glorious death it will be.

It was the cold hard truth. And it pierced my heart. That morning I needed to die to myself when I didn't get my way. When I didn't get the proper sleep. And when my girls were acting like children and not little soldiers. I could go on and on...

The amazing thing is that out of this death comes the most beautiful thing. The power of Jesus and all His awesomeness fills me up and I am instead made radiant with Him. And He overflows to those around me. Awesomeness verses ugliness. Enough said.

I was reminded this week that "The work of the cross is deadly but effective" (Tozer) This is true, but only when I allow it to be.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me..." Galatians 2:20

This post has been linked to Prayer and Share @ Heart to Heart with Holley

Multitude Monday

2010-03-15T07:50:00.007-04:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts.....

#118 Faithfulness of God
#119 Persistence in Prayer
#120 The joy of good news.
#120 Lori is pregnant!

Thankful,
Stacey

The Friday Five

2010-03-12T00:00:00.001-05:00

I loved reading the answers to the Friday Five with Beth! She is truly a woman of faith that inspires me! One of the things that she said that really made me think was that "You should have more dreams than memories." I was so struck by that statement. I think I have more worries than memories, but dreams? Really? I am also reading Good To Great In God's Eyes and Chip Ingram is stretching me to ask myself, "Do I have a God sized dream? Something only He can accomplish?"

So, as we ponder this and wait for our next Friday Five interview, I thought I'd ask you this question from The Five:

What are you looking forward to? Or in other words, what are you dreaming about?
Leave us a comment and if you have a link to a blog post that applies to this question, go ahead and put it in the comment!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. Our next Friday Five woman is such a blessing! She is one of the wisest women I know. I can't wait to hear who inspires her!

Change One Thing

2010-03-11T10:02:00.009-05:00

Growing up, my mom had a saying, "Poor people have poor ways." This was just her way of saying, use what you have and don't spend a bunch of money. She was green before green was cool! Who knew?!

I have been dreaming about redecorating my master bedroom. I have a plan, and I am on the lookout for inexpensive items to help me achieve this particular style. But in the mean time, I've been trying to use what I have and be creative.

So last week, I had a crazy idea to flip over the quilt on my bed. I thought this may give me a fresh new look, that would buy me some time why I dream & shop! So here is the before:

And here is the after:

And here is the cutest little pillow I found at Kohls for $8.50. It was originally $49.00. (Seriously, who would pay $49.00 for a decorative pillow?)

So I guess that was really two things. Still, it only cost about $8.50! And to be honest, I love it. Change is good. Especially, when it is cheap!

Looking forward,
Stacey

P.S. Be sure to check back tomorrow! I will be asking you to share an answer to one of the Friday Five Questions!

Chair Time

2010-03-09T07:37:00.007-05:00

Struggle.
Weary.
Tired.
Exasperated.

All synonyms for how I'm feeling lately. Six months of not enough sleep and I have become a walking shell of myself. So last week, I began singing a song the Lord put in my heart. It is an old hymn that I remember singing at church when I was a little girl. The chorus goes like this:

I need thee, oh I need thee.
Every hour I need thee.
Oh bless me now my Savior,
I come to thee.

Guess what the closing song of invitation was Sunday morning during our very contemporary worship service? "I Need Thee Every Hour.'' It was as though I was the only one in the 5,000 seat auditorium and He played it just for me. Then I heard the Lord whisper,

I see you.
You are never alone.
I am at work.
This is all part of the plan.
I have you right where I want you ---needing Me every hour.

I discovered today, that this hymn was written in June of 1872 by Annie Hawks, a housewife in Brooklyn. She wrote this beautiful prayer of dependence on the Lord while working in the kitchen.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-03-08T08:09:00.006-05:00

Counting 1,000 Gifts...

#116 A Skinny Decaf Cinnamon Dolce Latte & Vanilla Creme Cupcake = time alone to be refreshed.

Thankful,
Stacey

The Friday Five

2010-03-05T00:00:00.001-05:00

I am honored to introduce you to my friend Beth Guckenberger. I first met Beth at Indiana University at a meeting with Campus Crusade for Christ. I was immediately struck by her passion for Christ and her maturity at such a young age. Recently, I read her first book called Reckless Faith: Let Go and Be Led. In it, Beth tells the amazing story of how she and her husband, Todd, embraced reckless faith and moved to Monterrey, Mexico. With limited Spanish and huge hearts for orphans Beth and Todd moved “without much guidance other than a vague sense of the rightness of the decision.” Beth was not sure she even wanted to write this book because she didn’t know if her written words could live up to their experiences, but I can assure you, she delivers a powerful narrative of what happens when you let everything go to follow God. I am thrilled that Beth is our first official Friday Five Woman!

1. Where are you from?

I was born in Indianapolis, then lived in Cincinnati (minus 4 years at Indiana University) until age 25, since then I have been in Monterrey, Mexico.

2.What are you looking forward to or dreaming about?

I was just asked this in a couples Bible study last week and I made such a long list, I embarrassed myself. I am writing some more books,I dream about falling into a better pace with that. I am doing and hope to do more speaking. We are opening a new ministry site internationally in a place that has a lot of human trafficking, so I am hoping to have an impact on that, especially as it pertains to orphans. I have been dreaming about owning a jeep lately:) I am dreaming about another adoption. I am dreaming about owning a restaurant, I actually have lots of dreams... I just heard a quote about how we should have more dreams than memories.

3. What is your favorite Bible verse or passage and why?

Psalms 139. It is such an intimate passage between my Storyweaver and me. I could read it all day, it makes me feel known and loved.

4. What book have you read other than the Bible that has impacted you the most?

Whatever I have read last makes an impression on me and I talk about it for a while. I have recently read Love and War (Eldredge- great marriage book) Why I stayed (Gayle Haggard- great story of redemptive love) and I am always reading books in my field of ministering to the underprivileged internationally, there are scores of smart books on that subject.

5. Who inspires you?

I have several people who inspire me. My mother is one of the healthiest women I know. She works on being in the Spirit all day and that is a great conviction of mine. Also a woman in Mexico named Martha, who believes that every day is a divine appointment.

I could go on and on...

Thanks Beth for inspiring us today! If you would like to get a copy of Beth's awesome book, you can pick it up at Family Christian Store or click here. There is also a video clip at the website of Beth sharing a story from her book! Take 5 more minutes and watch it now. It will challenge you to live a life of Reckless Faith, too. You can find out more about the ministry Beth and Todd serve with @ back2backministries.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Bauer Haus Coffee Cake & Giveaway Winner

2010-03-04T07:29:00.006-05:00

Linking up with Chatting At The Sky today to show you a glimpse of home. Enjoy!

If you were here this morning, I would share a piece of this delicious cinnamon coffee cake. My husband and I discovered it at a lovely B&B in Harrodsburg, Kentucky many years ago.

Bauer Haus Coffee Cake

3/4 cup sugar
4 Tablespoons of applesauce
1 egg
1/2 cup skim milk
1 1/2 cup flour
2 teaspoons of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Streusel:
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 Tablespoons of flour
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 Tablespoons of butter

Preheat oven to 350.
Spray bottom of 9 inch pan.
Mix together Streusel topping and set aside.
Mix together sugar, applesauce, and egg. Stir in milk. Add flour, baking powder and salt. Stir until smooth. Spread half the batter in the pan and then cover with half of the streusel topping. Then repeat so you have another layer. Bake for 25 - 30 minutes. Of course serve warm with a cup of your favorite coffee.

The winner from the first Friday Five giveaway is Lori! Congratulations friend! I know your mom, and she is an inspiring woman of faith and courage! I think you will love this little book!
Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. Don't forget to stop by tomorrow and meet the first amazing Friday Five woman!

Chair Time - Secrets

2010-03-02T08:40:00.007-05:00

I've been thinking about secrets lately. Saturday I had a date with my oldest daughter and we shared secrets about the power of beauty. She is only 10, but we are taking the time now to be purposeful and talk openly about growing up to be the kind of girl that God desires her to be. We had a lovely time at the Art Museum, lunch at Panera and a stroll through the mall. She is an expert at picking out the not so modest clothing that seems to be everywhere these days. I made a promise to her to help her create her own unique artistic style that would only captivate one man - her future husband. These secrets are precious for me to share with her.

But the Lord also has secrets to share. They are precious to me too. Look at this amazing verse in Deuteronomy 29:29

"The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and our sons forever..."

My heart desires to be one who the Lord bends close to and reveals much. Am I putting myself in a place of trust for the things He desires to reveal to me? And the neat thing is, they are not just mine. They belong to my daughters (no sons here :) forever. The things He is revealing to me, I am to reveal to them. (Duet. 6:6-7) Wow! That is rich!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Question: How about you? What has God been revealing to you that you will be able to pass on to your sons or daughters forever?

*I highly recommend this amazing resources called Secret Keeper Girl that has 8 great dates with your daughter!

Multitude Monday

2010-03-01T08:02:00.003-05:00

#105 Huge steps of faith.
#106 My husband's belief in me.
#107 I'm going to Relevant.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

The Friday Five

2010-02-26T00:00:00.006-05:00

Howard Hendricks once said "After the Bible, the two things that will change your life the most are the people you meet and the books you read" (paraphrased). I have found this to be very true in my life. I thought it would be great to have a regular blog post featuring 5 questions and 5 minutes with a godly woman of influence. To kick off the series I'm going to introduce the 5 questions and answer them for you.

1. Where are you from?

Have you heard the song by John (used to be Cougar) Mellencamp, "I was born in a small town, my parents live in the same small town..." ? Well, I was born and raised in a small town right next to the town that song was written about in Southern Indiana. In fact, the name for my blog came from a house I lived in when I was a little girl. It was the kind of place where everyone knew you or your family. Life moved a bit slower. Often, I think of how differently my children are growing up. I am grateful for the abundant opportunities living in a larger city gives them, but there are times I miss the simplicity of life in a small town.

2. What are you looking forward to?

Let me start with telling you what looking forward actually means to me. I have been signing my name with this for about 9 years or so (it is also how I usually sign my blog). It began during an amazing study on the book of Hebrews with Kay Arthur. This study picked me up out of a pit and set me back on solid ground. I began to see my life in light of the bigger picture of eternity and Hebrews 12: 1 & 2. By saying looking forward I am reminding myself of what really matters. For me, it is to be faithful with what God has called me to today, and trust Him with what is going to happen tomorrow.

Looking forward also is about dreaming. Lately, my days are super packed with the business of daily life and there seems little time to dream. Still I do have a few! All of them involve teaching, encouraging, and a little bit of music. Right now, I am dreaming about sleeping all night because I have a four month old. I have a picture of a dream home that I would love to live in soon, before my kids are too big. I am also looking forward to where the Lord is going to take 29lincolnavenue as well. Some of these dreams are small, but isn't it neat to know that God cares about our dreams, no matter the size of them? I know that His plan is bigger than I can imagine. When I fix my eyes on Him then I can see more clearly the path He has laid before me.

3. What is your favorite Bible verse or passage?

I have just mentioned Hebrews...the book that changed my life! It is truly the one book of the Bible I would take with me to a deserted island. It is rich with Old Testament lessons as well as New Testament revelations. But, my life verse is actually in Colossians chapter 3 verse 16:

Let the word of God richly dwell within you, with all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another with Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

This verse is truly my heart and also who God made me to be. I am passionate about studying His word and letting it richly dwell in my life. Out of that comes wisdom and encouragement that God has called me to overflow to others. And singing is something that I love to do as well. That really is the sweet part of the verse. A promise that God gave me in a difficult time. I love when a verse like this intersects your life. It is like God takes this big heavenly flashlight and shines it on something that you have read a million times before. And then you see it and say, "Oh, is that for me? Wow, that is awesome." His Word is truly living and active and sharp!

4. What is one book you have read other than the Bible that has impacted you the most?

Picking one book is really hard! So let me give you three very different reads:

Hind's Feet In High Places - Hurnard - allegory about our journey with the Good Sheppard. I am so like the main character Much Afraid.
Pursuing God - Tozer - This will stretch you and you will never be the same.
Keep A Quiet Heart - Elliot - a collection of short reads from the best of her writings. I call it my pit book. When I am discouraged I read it. After about a week in it, I am set right again. I also give this book out to friends or anyone the Lord leads me to!

5. Who inspires you?

Well, I hope to have some of these women interviewed here, so stay tuned! I can't wait to introduce you to our first Friday Five Woman next week! Her love and passion for Jesus literally brings tears to my eyes. I am honored to know her. I am inspired by those people who know their God, hear His calling, and hold fast to Him! That is who I am striving to be in my own life. Knowing someone like that energizes me and encourages me to be all God created me to be!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. One lucky person will win one of my favorite books, Keep A quiet Heart. Just leave a comment and answer the question, "Who inspires you?" Winner will be chosen at random by Randomizer.org.

Chair Time

2010-02-23T07:51:00.007-05:00

"Quiet Time. The term is vital, descriptive of the very manner in which we receive an in-flooding of the Lord's life..."
"We must have a fresh in-flooding of life for soul and body too, or we will dry up and be like deserts in a desert."
"The real question, however is this: Where are we to find our fresh springs of life?"
(from You Are My Hiding Place by Amy Carmichael)

I long for a quiet place in my life. A place to sit and just be given life for soul and body too. I feel by the end of my very long days, like that desert in a desert. Yet when the horrible sound of the alarm pierces my sleep deprived body I am tempted to ignore it time and time again. Until I realize that if I am to truly make it today with any life left in me, I have to meet Him in our place. The place where I receive the great exchange. I give Him my tired, weary sin sick soul and He breathes fresh life from His ever flowing spring of joy and goodness into me.

"Jesus...cried in a loud voice, "If any man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink! He who believes in me-who cleaves to and trusts in and relies on me-as the Scripture has said, 'Out from his innermost being springs of living water shall continuously flow.'"
John 7:37-38 Amplified

Coming Thirsty,
Stacey

*Photo credit goes to my husband who found this beautiful mountain spot in the early hours of quiet this past July in Rocky Mountain National Park.

**I'm participating in Prayer and Share with Holley and Tuesday Unwrapped at Chatting At the Sky.

Multitude Monday

2010-02-22T07:49:00.010-05:00

Counting 1,000 gifts....

#81 Pretty dresses and a father who loves to dance with his daughters.

Thankful,
Stacey

Looking Forward

2010-02-20T09:52:00.003-05:00

I have a new regular blog post that I will begin next Friday called The Friday Five! Be sure to check it out!

Here is a great quote a friend of mine posted on Facebook by John Piper:

Service to children is a great litmus paper test of whether you are in the quest of true greatness or addicted to the praise of men. (Cf Mark 9:33-37)

Today, I will be serving my children by taking them to get new dresses for their first Father Daughter Dance. I have a very romantic picture of how this sweet affair should go...but I am preparing for the possibility of tears. (the shopping trip I mean!) Hoping for the best, preparing for the not so much!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. Vintage number five courtesy of The Graphics Fairy.

Winner Of Valentine Giveaway

2010-02-17T00:00:00.001-05:00

What a super fun week and Valentine Giveaway! I hope you enjoyed stopping by Tahra's shop and admiring her amazing handiwork. I just love supporting moms who are using their creativity to bless their family. Tahra you do beautiful work!

But now on to the good stuff! The winner of these cute earrings is:

Julia!!!
She Blogs @ http://godspromisetocaleb.blogspot.com
And has an amazing story of love to share!

Congratulations girl! Be sure to emai l me with your mailing address. I will forward that to Tahra and she will ship these lovelies to you ASAP!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. Remember to mention my blog when shopping at Designs By Tahra and she will give you 10% off!

Blogs I Love

2010-02-16T08:00:00.007-05:00

Have you ever read words that inspire you to do something? That move you to tears, hug your children more or just slow down and be refreshed? I have been making it a daily assignment to read such words penned by Ann Voskamp at A Holy Experience. Her words truly speak to my heart! Today she is writing for (In) Courage on When You've Been Framed: Life as Art.

Here is one of my favorite quotes from Ann:

Where two or three are gathered, there He is also. What I love most about the homeschooling lifestyle is that we are all together, in all our glorious mess, day in and day out. We are not time-torn or fragmented. We are gathered. There is no dichotomy between God and secular: we are making a one-piece life. We are real, transparent, and growing –sometimes painfully– with each other, season upon season, and God is in the center, bathing us sin-scraped ones with His Grace. That’s rich.

I live in a glorious mess, day in and day out. Although, I tend to see the mess more than the glorious. But, I'm trying to see more. What a beautiful picture put so eloquently into words!

Looking forward,
Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-02-15T00:00:00.001-05:00

My Valentines Day Giveaway is open until Tuesday at noon! Click here to enter!

#61 Dinner. Friends. Phantom. And my Valentine of 18 years.

Thankful,
Stacey

Valentine Giveaway

2010-02-14T07:03:00.012-05:00

Happy Valentines Day! I hope that you spend today with the ones you love! To celebrate this day I am having my first giveaway!

My friend Tahra has opened a Etsy shop called Designs by Tahra featuring her unique handmade jewelry designs. Tahra is a hardworking home schooling mom with a great eye for detail. Here are a few of her pieces that I like:

I think this watch is fabulous!

Or how about this beauty with a cute pair of jeans?

My daughters would love some cupcake earrings!

How fun! I love the fact that Tahra is using creative strengths to start this new business and bless her family. So here is how the contest will work. First, visit Tahra's Etsy shop and look at her beautiful jewelry. Come back here and leave a comment and tell me what is your favorite piece. You can receive an entry for becoming a follower of 29lincolnave, posting the link to this post to your Facebook or Twitter page, or blogging about this contest. You may also sign up for an Etsy shopping account and click on the heart to "heart Tahra's store". For each thing you do simply leave an extra comment below. Contest is open through noon on Tuesday. I will pick a winner through randomizer.org and post it on Wednesday February 17! Oh! And for those of you who see something you like ( I know you will!) Tahra has generously offered to give 10% off to anyone who mentions my blog and this contest*! Isn't she sweet?! And here is the awesome prize that is up for grabs:

Perfect for Valentines Day!!!
(a $25 value)

Good luck!
Stacey

*the 10% off will be a refund given after your purchase through Paypal.

How Are You Strong & Giveaway is Coming!!!

2010-02-12T09:26:00.000-05:00

Did you hear about my first giveaway? Check back on Valentines Day for a sweet treat and a chance to win! Here is an awesome post from Heart to Heart with Holley!

"The Rest of Your Story 22: What are your strengths?

Strength: a personal characteristic that can be used on behalf of God in service to others.

Then put them through the S.T.R.E.N.G.T.H. Test...

Service - Does it help me serve God and others?

Time - Has it been present throughout much of my life?

Relationships - Do others see this?

Energy - Do I feel energized when I'm living this way?

Natural - Does this come naturally to me most of the time? OR do I know God has intentionally developed this in me even though it doesn't?

Glory - Does God ultimately get the glory from it?

Trials - Even in hard times, does it usually come through somehow?

Heart - Does this really feel like a core part of who I am?

Question: What are some of your strengths?

My Answer: I spent the better part of last year discovering how God has made me. Strength Finder 2.0 listed my top themes as: Relator, Belief, Communication,Responsibility and Empathy . This translates most in my life through teaching and encouraging. I know I am called and fashioned to lead a small group of women. Also, I sing and love to worship Him through music. For the first time in my life I understand how God has made me. The STRENGTH test above is very helpful. I can honestly say that even in difficult times these strengths come through and they really speak to the core of who I am!"

So, does this post get you thinking? How has God made you? What energizes you and speaks to the very core of who you are?

Have a great weekend,
Stacey

I'm So Excited!!

2010-02-11T15:24:00.003-05:00

I set a goal that when I had 25 followers I would host a giveaway. I hit that number right around the time my baby was born and have not had the time to put that plan into motion! Well, today I contacted a friend of mine who is going to donate the prize for the giveaway! So here is what I can tell you:

1. You will love the sweet prize!
2. You will want to check back here on Valentines Day!
3. It will be the first of many giveaways at 29lincolnavenue!

Looking forward,
Stacey

Chair Time

2010-02-09T16:07:00.005-05:00

Psalm 90: 12, 14

So teach us to number our days, That we may present to You a heart of wisdom...O satisfy us in the morning with your lovingkindness, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.

Last year for Christmas my husband bought me an amazing chair and a half with a matching ottoman. I have always wanted one. This is the place I meet with the Lord in the early morning hours when the house is silent and my little ones have not yet discovered that I am awake. I love to sneak downstairs (do you do that too?) and curl up with my cup of Komodo Dragon Starbucks Coffee,my Bible, a journal, and some Kari Jobe on my Ipod.

He is always there, waiting for me. Many times lately, I have not made our appointment. But patiently He waits for me. He has so much He wants to teach me and pour into my heart. I was most struck this week by Psalm 90: 12 & 14 and I know that I need it to be written on my heart! My cry to the Lord is that each morning I would find my satisfaction in Him.. and sing for joy and be glad all day long...not looking for a person to satisfy me, not looking for circumstances, but just satisfied by Him. Every single morning.

Most mornings I am discovered by a 3 foot tall messy haired girl who is dragging a blanket and a large stuffed bumble bee. She snuggles up close to me and I am reminded why I am in the chair in the first place.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

I am linking up to Chatting at the Sky for "Tuesday Unwrapped". This is truly a lovely blog that has encouraged my heart!

Multitude Monday

2010-02-08T07:43:00.004-05:00

Counting 1,000 gifts...
#37 Words of value from my daughter shared during a show and tell at school. Her teacher posted this in our weekly update:

E. shared what she learned about birds, following the drama lesson on the Nightingale of Wittenburg. As she discovered various qualities of birds, she was able to see members of her family who possessed some of those same qualities. For instance, in her Mom she saw the protecting, self-sacrificing qualities of a partridge, who is willing to lay down its life for its young. And these were HER words. WOW! What mom wouldn't be blessed by that!

I am.

Thankful,
Stacey

Loving Your Family

2010-02-04T09:13:00.004-05:00

I am looking forward to this coming week as we count down the days to Valentine's Day! Here are a couple of ideas I have used in the past that were big hits with our family.

1. I purchased heart shaped post it notes and gave everyone permission to leave love notes all around the house! The fun part was finding them in the most unexpected places!

2. I found small metal mailboxes at the $1 spot at Target last year. I put them on the breakfast table and each morning there was a treat, sticker, or small present for my girls to receive. This was super easy and they were giddy with excitement to get their mail each morning! This year I am going to start on February 7th for 7 days of You've Got Mail.

3. I researched each name in our family and the meaning of it. For our Valentine's Day dinner I made heart shaped place mats for each person with their name and the meaning of it. I laminated them so we can use them year after year!

4. We had desert as our dinner on February 14. Last year it was strawberry shortcake, but this year I think we are going to some type of fondue dinner!

How about you? Do you have any great Valentine traditions to pass on? Join the Link Party and let us know! Remember to copy the url to your actual post not just your blog!

Love,
Stacey

How Do You Compare?

2010-02-03T07:40:00.004-05:00

It is party day over at Heart to Heart With Holley! This was a great week of thought provoking questions. I chose my favorite entry and my comment to share with you today! I hope you have super weekend!

It's a junior high lunch table. We eavesdrop on giggly girls...
"My boyfriend is captain of the football team."
"I found THE COOLEST JEANS last weekend!"
"I got an A on the Science test."
Is anyone else's heart racing just thinking about being back there. Good grief.
Okay, I've regained my composure. The point is that as women we compare. A lot...
(To read the rest of the entry click here).

Question: What is God doing in your story right now?

My Answer:
Henry Blackaby says, "God is always at work around you. It is your job to find out where He is at work and join Him in it!" So, clearly God is at work, and right now He is working on my heart. He is saying, "Follow me one step at a time. Do not anxiously look around and wish you could be doing other things. Just do the next thing I tell you to do." Seriously, yesterday I followed this plan throughout the day and my heart was more at ease. I was not sitting and wishing I was off doing something else. And I was not overwhelmed as much by all I had to yet to finish. Doing the next thing - like feeding the kids or praying with my husband is really okay. The next thing is God's thing for me right now.

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-02-01T09:16:00.004-05:00

#28 All I need to take is one step at a time....He reminded me of this three times in the past 24 hours.

First, here, "If only the next step is clear, then the one thing to do is take it! Don't pledge your Lord or yourself to any steps beyond what you know. You don't see them yet." (Amy Carmichael)

Next here, "Follow me one step at a time. That is all I require of you." (Sarah Young).

And finally, here:

Thankfully listening Lord,
Stacey

Who Shares Your Story?

2010-01-28T09:41:00.006-05:00

I have been participating in a 21 day challenge through Dayspring and Heart to Heart with Holley. Today she is having a link party and asking us to share our favorite post from the week! I love this one from Wednesday January 27 called Who Shares Your Story? You can read it here:

Here is my comment in a nutshell:

"I love the way you describe the 3 types of relationships we have. Currently I feel like most of my relationships are at the Functioning Level because of my season in life. I have a newborn and I am the one merely functioning! I recently told a someone that I feel as though I am not fully present in any of my conversations. Have you ever felt that way? Mine is due to being extremely tired at the very core of my soul. Physically, mentally and spiritually just slap worn out! Heart level relationships take being purposeful, and a commitment to being known. I love these and need them in my life, but I do think I am in a season where I am just not capable of maintaining that too well. Thankfully, most of people in my life understand that about me."

So, how about you? Who shares your story? Who would you like to go deeper with? Are you challenged as you read this to pursue a friendship or let down your walls to let another person know you?

Leave me a comment below and tell me what you think!
Looking Forward,
Stacey

Design Girl Wannabe - Master Bedroom

2010-01-27T11:22:00.007-05:00

I am so excited to finally have a plan for our master bedroom! I have searched high and low for design inspiration and a color scheme that captured the look and feel of what I wanted. After what seemed like years of looking , I found this beautiful room at Houzz:

I think the key elements that I love are the clean white bedding, the pop of color in the pillows which can be easily changed for a new look, the photo above the bed and the cozy lounge area for reading or watching television. I also like the use of black in the room which really provides an anchor to all the white! I found some fabulous bedding at Overstock.com to begin to build upon. Now I am looking for slipcovers, bedside tables and just the right photograph compliments of my husband! I am not sure what accent color I am going to use. I am thinking about green or a linen color. Currently my bed is a red oak slatted sleigh design, and it will have to stay that way for now. But with a picture finally in mind I can move forward! And that feels awesome!

I love the fact as well that dreaming and planning doesn't cost a dime. Now on to frugal shopping!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

P.S. I will post before and after pictures as I am able to begin to make these changes. Right now I feel like Bob, from "What About Bob" ---taking baby steps!

Multitude Monday

2010-01-23T08:51:00.008-05:00

#13 Saturday breakfast dates with daddy, her first of many:

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Reading To Your Kids

2010-01-21T14:12:00.004-05:00

Do you read to your children? Do they love books? Edith Schaeffer said:

"If children haven't been read to, they don't love books. They need to love books, for books are the basis of literature, composition, history, world events, vocabulary, and everything else."

I want my kids to love books and to be good writers. Writing experts encourage reading aloud to your kids at least 2 hours every day. Is it just me, or does that seem impossible to achieve? I love to read to my girls and our current book, The Railway Children by E. Nesbit is a great adventure. Still, I struggle to take 2 hours every day to read to them.

Another way to engage them in listening to the written word is through audio books. We have used them from time to time, but I am thinking about using them more regularly. When I mentioned this idea to my super techie husband, he said, "That's what I-Tunes is for!" So today I checked it out and I found some great resources. My favorite is by Kara Shallenberg. She uploads 1 chapter each week onto I-Tunes. Currently, she is sharing The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann R Wyss. And the best part is that it is free! Isn't that awesome? You can also visit her website: www.kayray.org/my-recordings for other great books! And I thought I-Tunes was just for music and movies!

"Countless studies over the past several decades have confirmed over and over again the undeniable impact of reading aloud on a child. Apparently, God has designed the minds of children to grow when watered with words from good books, His words being the best. It is impossible to overstate the influence you can have on your children simply by reading aloud to them regularly. It stands alone as an educational tool that is nearly universal in its effectiveness. Beyond that though, there s also a bonding that takes place when a family shares the experience of reading aloud. It is a unifying experience. Some are apt to be suspicious that such an uncomplicated means can produce such complex ends, but sometimes God uses the simple to confound the wise. Reading aloud is just that." Sally Clarkson, Educationg the Wholehearted Child.

Now, if only math were that simple!
Looking forward,
Stacey

P.S. This is not meant to stress you out and add one more thing to your already very full life! I have days when I want to toss everything out the window...like today! But sometimes you just have to stop, grab a good book and read to your kids. It truly does simplify all the chaos!

I Have This Idea...

2010-01-20T15:58:00.003-05:00

I've been thinking about starting a new small group. About a year ago I completed a 3 year covenant I made with 12 other women. We read, we studied The Word, we prayed, and we cried. A lot. Mostly though, we shared our lives around the table. I loved it. And I miss it dearly! I knew that I needed a break when it finished, but today I am feeling like diving back into that pool. Desiring going deeper and having some company along the way.

My husband and were talking about integrating a small group and some sort of social media. I realize all the people who I would love to gather at the table can't physically be there. But we could gather here...at a virtual table.

Just a thought. More to come as I figure it all out!

Looking Forward,
Stacey

Multitude Monday

2010-01-18T09:17:00.006-05:00

Can you count 1,000 gifts that you are thankful for? I saw this challenge at A Holy Experience by Anne Voskamp. I am joining her gratitude community because I think it is a fabulous idea. And by the way, she has a beautiful blog and a way with words that touches my soul! Each Monday I will post a picture of one thing I am thankful for from the previous week. And, I will be be singing with thankfulness in my heart to God! Care to join me?

#3
Once upon a time there was a little girl who loved God's Word so much! She read it every night before bed and it helped her be strong and courageous. Then she lost her favorite Bible for about 3 months. She was so sad she cried. Just when we thought all hope was lost....we found it at church last Wednesday night.

Looking Forward,
Stacey