My Example

When struggling with the behavior of my children I look to myself, even when all is well I look to myself. A scolding with a word of discipline in thought or a pat on my back in obedience to the ways the Lord has directed me in raising His children. I can never be grateful enough for the covering God provides. It is a constant in our house to be reminded to; Do what is Good and Right and leave the rest to God. Yet, how often do we forget due to the flesh that we live in. The flesh that desires self-satisfaction at all times. How can I remember to always do what is Good and Right and leave the rest to God when I am so easily offended, when common sense is not so common and the irritation sets in when decisions are made that go against all we know is good. The only way I have found to win more than I lose and set them up for success is to stay constant in the His Word, my instructions for life, His ever merciful guidance. I can not fail my God or children if I am always **aware of our surroundings, know what I believe, am brave, am strong, and do all things in Love. (**My Paraphrase of 1Cor 16:13-14)

Grandpa's exit

It was today that that my grandpa breathed his last. As far back as I can say I know my family tree personally, Grandpa goes at the top. I was glad that all his children were there in his last days, even Mom was able to get out there in time to have one more goodbye. Being with my aunts and uncle during this time of loss will be very hard and I hope good for the beginning days of healing. I love and take great joy in the value this man holds to our family. Many memories of Grandpa will be cherished always by his children, and his grandchildren, especially my brother Jason and our cousin Rustin.Those two had the privilege of growing up with Grandpa as "Dad" as well. Their hearts break tonight and I pray, -Lord comfort us who are still here on earth, may we remember the constant we saw him as and be that for one another. May his great grandchildren remember too what they know of him and love the stories they will hear for time to come.

Distant

My oldest three munchkins have headed out to visit with family and my heart is the least heavy it has ever been during this space of time. I am actually excited about this visit. It could be because of a new addition or maybe because they are older. It could be because I am growing more mature in my relationship with God and understand that my kiddos are his before they are mine. Perhaps its having a confident peace in who my God says he Is.

Play on the floor with them

I love how a child appreciates it when we get down on their level and play with them. I was reminded this Sunday when rolling around with Lathan, watching Levi and Luke play chess Indian style, sewing a Barbie dress with Souriya and seeing Lance put together some new creation with Legos. They look at you differently. This is a place I know I earn their respect, allowing them to tower over me every once in a while.

Do not yell

I have agreed to do 10 push ups each time I yell. My son Luke was sharing this with my sister and she asked, "What does she do when you let her know she needs to do 10 push ups?" Luke answered her, "She just calms down and says she will get them done." I am glad of my 8 yr old's perspective. I am glad he feels comfortable holding me accountable to my word and believes I will follow through. I hope this is due to past experience with me. Yelling, I think used to be my regular volume when talking. My growth has come with each new child's birth. What I try to remember most when yelling is how out of control I feel. How many times I have been told, "You give the person, or situation that control over you when you yell, and how do you even hear yourself think." Do my children really offend me, absolutely not. If I get angry it is at my lack of consistency. And consistency is the secret to my children's success!