Adventures of the "Patient" Mom

Sesame Street Live

2011-11-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

Elmo, Big Bird and the gang may be coming to a city near you! Check it out here.

72 Days.?

2011-11-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

Kim Kardashian. Ya'll already know. I must say that I've been trying to dismiss the hoopla that I've been seeing on the magazines near the checkout counters. I've been telling myself that they can't POSSIBLY be on the brink of divorce; they just got married. Well apparently they are, according to People.com, E News (the network that airs her show), and the rest of the world.

I hope I'm not the only person who thinks this is tragic on so many levels. Even though some celebrities seem to view marriages as disposable as used toilet tissue, I always have a glimmer of hope that they might make it. Was the Kardashian-Humphries wedding just a show? Was it just a cleverly created, EXPENSIVE marketing ploy? Why do I care?

I care because I dearly love my husband of six years. Marriage is definitely not the easiest thing that I've done; he can annoy me like no one else. However, marrying this man is one of the best things I've done. I am so grateful for him, he is my best friend, and we don't have an exit strategy. Marriage is sacred; it's a commitment that our society shouldn't treat so lightly.

On a side note, how much was spent on the wedding? I know a few churches, non-profit organizations, and unemployed folks who could have used that money.

Mystery Solved!

2011-10-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

For several months construction crews have worked on a new building in my area. Every time I passed it I would ask myself the same question: "I wonder what that is?" I got my answer this morning; it's an Aldi supermarket. I have heard that this store has great prices, and I hope that is true, because I am always looking for a deal. I also hope they that they have affordable natural/organic products. The grand opening is scheduled for November 3rd and I may have to sneak a peek. Do you have an Aldi in your area? What do you think?

Isn't She Lovely?

2011-10-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

Well, isn't she? There is a silent strength about her that I love. I also get a kick out of the afro, because I got me some big hair too! Groovy Lady is finally hanging in my office after several months in hiding behind an armoire. I have commitment issues when it comes to decorating. Groovy Lady is the name given to here by the artist, but my daughter keeps trying to name her Sally, Annie, or some other name that doesn't reflect the way she speaks to me. This was painted by P. Lewis, a good friend of my mine from college. From time to time she displays her work at art exhibits in the Atlanta area. To see more of her beautiful work, check out the P.Lewis collection here.

What's For Dinner?

2011-10-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been in a cooking rut. My use of the word lately probably isn't accurate, because this rut has lasted several months. You know what I'm talking about. I never know what to cook, and when I do, I prepare the same meals over and over again. By the way, the rut applies to every meal, not just dinner. At some point my children will start picketing my use of PB and J. I've had enough exposure to know that the appropriate thing to do in this situation is to develop a weekly meal plan, but just between you and me, laziness is preventing me from doing that. If you are in the rut with me, I just found a website that I think will give us the direction and motivation needed to become well oiled, meal planning machines. Go over to Meal Planning Magic and check out the ideas for starting a basic meal plan, freezer cooking, and making life easier in the kitchen. The Resource Guide on the site is definitely the place to start. It has links for information on the topics I mentioned, plus it features help for folks with special dietary needs, such as gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian. If you aren't used to meal planning, I hope you feel inspired. If you do plan meals weekly, what's your system?

Warning: Disaster Area

2011-10-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

Is your house a wreck when you come home from a trip? I came home Monday from a quick trip to the land also known as "Hotlanta", and my house is a hot mess. For example, the suitcase hasn't been unpacked but we've been taking things out of it as needed, laundry everywhere, etc. It wasn't a mess when left, but I haven't been on my household maintenance game this week. So here is quick tip before I attempt to get this place in order: invest in a timer. Nothing fancy, just a simple digital timer that you can probably get from somewhere like the Dollar Store. Set the timer for about 15 minutes and pick a room. Look here girl, this ain't deep cleaning. This is straightening, clearing surface clutter, making the bed (no, I didn't make the bed today). You will be amazed at what you can do in 15 minutes, and it helps build cleaning momentum because you know you are only working for short periods of time. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!

Oh So Special

2011-10-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

If you have children, do you savor the special moments that you have with them, or are you telling them to go play so that you can finish the crazy number of items on your to do list? I have to admit that I am usually guilty of the later. Of course my list of things are important, but time moves so fast, and everyday my kids are saying, doing something different. I have to remind myself to enjoy them, love them, play with them, and for goodness sake, stop letting the t.v. spend more time with them than I do. Ladies, let's put those lists aside for 10 minutes and love on our kids. It just might be the highlight of the day.

Solutions for Itty Bitty Waistlines

2011-10-12T11:01:00.000-07:00

I made that sound like a problem, right? Well it can be a bit of an issue if you are trying to find clothing for kids that are kinda on the petite side. My munchkins are all under the age of four, and one of the best places to find affordable, quality clothing is Target. Now, I know other companies make pants with adjustable waistlines, but you can get Cherokee brand jeans from my favorite store for $10. The pricing is different, but online they have the adjustable waists for older children, so they may offer them in stores also. Check it out!

Savin' in the South

2011-10-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Don't you love it when someone does your work for you? I do, especially when it comes to couponing. With the economy in pitiful shape, coupons are definitely "chic". Actually, I don't care about it being chic, I just want to save a few pennies here and there. If you live in the southeast, check out Southernsavers, a website dedicated to compiling weekly grocery and drugstore deals. The site will list a store's sale item and tell you where to find the matching coupon, if available. Jenny, the site's creator, also travels the region training folks on the fine art of couponing. I absolutely love Southernsavers. Go have a look, and let me know what you think!

Guess Who's Back?

2011-10-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

So...I've decided to try my hand at blogging again. Why? I realize as a wife, mom, businesswoman, and serious girly-girl, I have a ton of interests and OPINIONS. Hopefully I can share something with you that will be encouraging, informative, or maybe even funny!

Cultured Pearls

2010-04-23T03:04:00.000-07:00

There are several older women at my church that I absolutely love. They are in their mid-forties to late fifties and they have qualities that I want when I get to that stage. Poise, class, spunk, vibrance, humor, warmth, humility, holiness. They are involved in ministry. They love their children. They HONOR THEIR HUSBANDS. Actually, I don’t want to be like that when I turn 45; I want that now! I don’t look at them in envy, nor do I condemn myself because I may not be all that they are. I just find that I feel encouraged being in their presence. I encourage you to find an older married women who has her stuff together and spend some time with her. You might find that she has a few pearls of wisdom to share.

Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored. Titus 2:3-5

Love in the Forest

2010-04-22T05:45:00.000-07:00

Married ladies, what does your bedroom look like? Is it a cozy retreat for you and your husband, or is it a storage area/dumping ground for toys, papers, unfolded laundry, and the kids’ junk? I will be the first to admit that our bedroom is not a retreat, but I really want it be. It is my goal to create that type of environment because I need it, and I will go out on a limb here and say it’s biblical.

"...And the bed we share is like a forest glen. We enjoy a canopy of cedars enclosed by cypresses, fragrant and green." Song of Solomon 1:16,17 The Message

I love this verse because it tells me that an element of physical intimacy with my husband is creating an environment that facilitates that. This verse makes me think of a calming space; a retreat. Sure, he might not care, but every little bit helps, and honestly, I don’t need any extra destractions.

What Has He Done for You Lately?

2010-03-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

My sweet girlfriend was careful to remind me last night that I haven't written anything since February. Forgive me; I'll try to do better.

As I was doing my devotional time this morning, I thought about the way people in the Bible demonstrated worship to God. I read about David dancing before the Lord as he brought the ark of the Covenant to Bethlehem. I read about Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns in prison. Then I started thinking about women like Hannah and her triumphant song of praise when the Lord gave her a son. I thought about the sinful woman who washed Jesus' feet with her hair. Then I came to Mary, the young woman engaged to Joseph the carpenter. The young woman who was surely ridiculed for being pregnant before she was married to Joseph. Luke chapter one records her praise to the Lord, but verse 49 gripped me this morning as a read it.

"for the Mighty One has done great things for me - holy is his name."

You see, I am leading praise and worship at a women's retreat this weekend, were we will be learning about several women in the Bible, the challenges in their lives, and how we can learn from them. This exercise this morning is part of my preparation- I gotta get my mind right. When a reflect on my life, I haven't been the most grateful person in the world. Honestly, I tend to show the Lord my gratitude in the midst of what perceive as some superduper fabulous blessing. However, the fact that I'm sitting here typing is one of the great things God has done for me. So many times we take life, our children, and OUR HUSBANDS for granted. As I share music with the ladies this weekend, I want to focus on the great things the God has done, and is doing for me.

I challenge you to take a piece of paper and list all the things God has done for you. It may help your day seem a little brighter, and help you love Him a little more. Because He is mighty, and holy is name!

Company Girls 2.19- It's All About Love

2010-02-19T11:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my kids and I were in the store and I found a DVD of one of my daughter's favorite DVD series. I was excited about this because it was a great deal, but I didn't show it to her. As we walked around the store, my precious little doll decided that she wanted to display some defiant behaviors that she knew absolutely didn't work for me. In the midst of the foolishness and trying to discreetly chastise her, I kept thinking about the DVD; part of me wanted to put it back. Then I started to think about my relationship with Jesus and how He graciously blesses me, providing all my needs according to His riches in glory, and even some of my desires. And He does these things in the midst of my sinful foolishness and His chastisement. That is one of the most challenging aspects of being a parent. If you are a Christian, God uses these precious little sinners to sanctify you and put you in check.

And yes, I did buy the DVD, not because she deserved it, but simply because I love her.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8

Delicious! Cranberry Vanilla Oatmeal

2010-02-18T07:32:00.000-08:00

I am a sucker for a good recipe...especially if it's simple, and I have everything on hand to try it. Try this recipe from the Fairhope Foodie for Cranberry Vanilla Oatmeal. I used strawberry Polaner All Fruit in place of the raspberry jam, but I was really impressed with the flavor, and since my munchkins are in love with oatmeal, I wll be adding this to our repetoire.

Blog Shoutout: Beads, Braids, and Beyond

2010-02-18T04:41:00.000-08:00

Today's shout out goes to Nikki over at Beads, Braids, and Beyond. Her website give hair care and styling tips for African-American and biracial children. Nikki does a great job of providing detailed instructions and photos of styles that she has created for her daughter. I visit her blog at least twice a week because I'm amazed at the styles she features, and I aspire to get that skilled with my daughter's hair. And if you have a son, don't feel left out; Nikki is beginning to feature some information for the little guys too. She also does product reviews, and promotes using natural haircare products. Nikki's site is one of the best I've seen on this subject. So if you know someone who may benefit from this information, send them over.

Making a List, Checking It Twice

2010-02-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

Good Morning!
This weekend I was thinking that it would be great idea to begin sharing some of my frugal living tips, particularly when it comes to preparing meals. Today we'll start with grocery shopping.

What is your shopping strategy? Do you walk down the aisles tossing items into the cart that you think you need, or do you use a list? I must admit I used to do the former, but my memory ain't what it used to be, so it's easier for me to make a list. At this point in the game, my list making has three components. Right now this is working for me, but I am the type of person who likes to streamline periodically, so next month I might refine this strategy again.

The Running List: I have a small magnetic dry erase board on my refrigerator specifically for this purpose. As I run out of something, I write it on the board. When I make my official list, I copy the items from the board.
Menu Ingredients: When it's time to go shopping, I try to list some of the meals that I plan to cook and write those ingedients on the shopping list. I'm in the process of learning to menu plan so I've modified this step just a little. We'll chat about that later.
Putting It Together: I like to use one of the shopping list templates from Microsoft Works because it helps you categorize your list, for example, dairy, cereals/ grains, produce, etc. It's kinda like using a map. This also cuts down on running in circles to buy milk, cheese, and butter. If they're listed together, you'll pick them up together. I also check my fridge and cabinets when I'm creating the master list to make sure I covered everything.

Aside from helping you remember what you need, making a list can help you stay focused on what you need. Focusing on what you need keeps you from blowing money. There times that I'm in the store and I realize that I still forgot something, and I will add it to the cart. However, you better believe it's not some random item that I can do without (like oreos).

Company Girls 2.12.10

2010-02-12T07:33:00.000-08:00

Good Morning!

My daughter spent the week with my parents, and while it was a much needed break for me, my home didn't feel quite the same. I'm sure my 10 month old loved the extra attention, but I think he was a little bored without his big sister. I think I was too.

My mind is getting the hang of getting up at 5:30/6 for my devotions, although I'm ready to pass out by 8pm. Maybe I need to institute some mandatory mommy nap time during the day...

As far as Valentine's Day goes, I'm not that into it this year. At the moment, I am perfectly content with putting the kids to bed early and enjoying a home cooked meal and a movie. Or sleep. My husband, however, is pushing for a date night tonight so we can bypass the crowds on Sunday, and because he says I'm "special". So I guess would be a crazy woman to turn that down, right?

The highlight of the week was learning that a couple in our church is going to give us a vehicle. Yes, I said GIVE! I was in an accident in August and my car was totaled. We've been trying figure out the best way to get another vehicle without getting into debt, especially because we just started Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University at our church. Anyway, my husband was sharing that need as a prayer request, and this couple said that had a vehicle that needed a good home. So there you go. WHO IS LIKE THE LORD!?

Blog Housekeeping

2010-02-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

Apparently I had some sort of restriction switched on for receiving comments that only allowed blogger or g-mail subscribers to make comments. I changed that this week, so if you've been reading or are a new reader, will you leave me a comment just to say "hi"? I would love to know who's reading my blog. You can also e-mail me at thepatientmom@hotmail.com.

De-Log Your Eye

2010-02-10T09:48:00.000-08:00

I had a slightly disturbing conversation the with a friend who was perfectly content to indicate that his wife was the cause of the majority of their marital “concerns”. Now, you might be appalled by this, but ladies, don’t we do it too? “Oh, if he would just __________ , everything would be fine.” All I have to say about that is walk into you bathroom, turn on the light, look in the mirror, and grab that big ol’ log that’s hanging out of your eye. Use a little prayer if you need some help. I bring mess to the table just like my spouse. I need to be honest, reflective, and prayerful about my junk before I start throwing stones at him.

So Full!

2010-02-08T04:59:00.000-08:00

My heart is so full as I write this, I might cry. And if I do, it won't be because I'm sad; it will be that I'm a little spiritually overwhelmed by the week I've have studying God's Word. Last Wednesday I committed to getting up around 6 a.m. so that I could have my devotions before the kids woke up. This time has truly been a blessing, and everyday God has given me some sort insight, encouragement, or spiritual "spanking." I'll be sharing some of this in future posts, but I do want to leave you with this word to encourage you. I know it is challenging to be mom, wife, house keeper, career woman, Sunday school teacher, etc. If you are like me, sometimes you feel like you might absolutely lose your mind. You get tired of the little hands (and the big ones) tugging at you. You are tired of laundry, bills, and trying to figure out what to cook for dinner. Even in the midst of feeling tired, overworked, and overwhelmed, we have to remember that we cannot spin all the plates alone. God is waiting for us to sit down with Him so that He can feed us from His Word. He is the only One who has what we need to "keep on keepin' on."

"And He will be the stability of your times,

A wealth of salvation, wisdom and knowledge;
The fear of the LORD is his treasure. "

Isaiah 33:6

Blog Shoutout: Rebuild the City

2010-02-04T05:26:00.000-08:00

Today's blog shoutout goes to These Three Kings at Rebuild the City. This blogger has been a dear friend of mine for about 10 years. She, her husband, and daughter are missionaries in a urban community in Montgomery, Alabama. I think I get "body slammed" with spiritual truth every time I read that darn blog (a truly painful experience). But seriously, her blog is testimony of how important it is for us to build relationships with others for the sake of proclaiming the Word of God. It is also a testimony of how the Lord is never done molding and shaping us in His image so that He can use us to do His work for His glory.

What On Earth Are You Eating?

2010-02-01T05:36:00.000-08:00

Do you ever people watch? I do sometimes, and one of the most interesting places to do this is the grocery store. Actually, I think what I do could more acurately be defined as buggy watching, because I have a tendency to survey the grocery items in people's shopping carts. It amazes me to see the piles of frozen pizzas, pop tarts, cookies, and sodas. I'm not going to get on a soapbox, but in this age of childhood obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and fad diets, I would like to challenge you to think about what you and your family are eating.

Check out this Good Morning America video with author Michael Pollan. The simplest way for me to discribe Pollan is that is a food writer who has done a ton of research concerning where our food comes from, what's in it, and how it gets to our plates.

Kaos!

2010-01-29T06:52:00.000-08:00

This week is my first time participating in Company Girl Coffee, a virtual meetup for bloggers to share a cup of coffee and a little fellowship.

I think I hit a wall this week. I'm realizing that my life is Kaotic. I know that it should be spelled chaotic, but my inner craziness is better portraited with the incorrect spelling. Let me clarify that my husband and kids aren't causing the Kaos. It is my lack of discipline and organization. So, I've been on a mission to establish order in my life. Here's the plan:

Wake up by 6a.m. for devotion- For the sake of transparency, I will say that my greatest weakness as a Christian is that I don't spent enought time with the One I'm supposed to be following. Some of you might think 6a.m. is nuts but my hubby is up and out by 6:30, so he's agreed to make sure that I am up when he leaves.
Develop and keep a daily schedule- laundry, cleaning, etc. The daily small things at Home Sanctuary will be an instrumental part of this.
Start menu planning - I'm trying to get ready for Menu Plan Monday at Organizing Junkie

I started this yesterday, and so far so good. My prayer is that I can develop the discipline to maintain these areas, for the sake of all who have to endure living with me !

Blog Shoutout: Love Lasts a Lifetime

2010-01-28T07:11:00.000-08:00

Today I will begin a feature that I'm calling Blog Shoutout. I've been reading some great blogs, and I want to do a little more than highlight them in my blogroll. My goal is to feature a new blog every week so that you can know where to go to find great information on food, marriage, beauty, etc., and maybe even a little encouragement along the way.

I actually starting reading Love Lasts a Lifetime several months before I started blogging. Kelly and contributing writer Doug (her husband) have been a great source of encouragement to me concerning my marriage. I don't know about you, but there are some issues concerning my marriage that I don't feel comfortable sharing with my mom (SEX!). The Lord has used Kelly as a "mom" to help me be more open concerning intimacy in marriage. I don't want to share too much of Doug and Kelly's story, but God has helped them overcome some major difficulties in their marriage. They have chosen to use their experiences for His glory, and as a way to help others honor the Lord in their relationships.

Kelly, thanks for "spurring" me on. May the Lord continue to bless you and your family.

The Power of Prayer

2010-01-27T06:11:00.000-08:00

The past couple of weeks with my two year old have been rigorous. I don't really surrender to the notion of "terrrible twos", but lately, I don't know! A few days ago I decided I was going to pray with this little girl before I let her feet touch the floor. And so we did. And I must say that was one of the best days we had in a while. The Lord wants to mold the hearts of our children. All we need to do is get out of the way and let Him.

Please Cleave!

2010-01-23T06:42:00.000-08:00

This post is dedicated to my sweet girlfriend M. Just the thought of her is accountability for me right now. She had an idea for a post and very adamantly said "Here's something for you to blog about." So here I am at 6:30 am on a Saturday blogging because my head and heart are full with this post. Thanks M.

About a year after Mr. Fabulous and I got married, we got into a disagreement about something. I can't remember what it was, but it must have been something significant because I remember very clearly leaving our bedroom in the middle of the night to go sit on the couch (this is not something that I regularly do). I was upset and this profound thought came into my head: "I just want to go home." By home, I mean to my parents. They could make it all better. Then I had startling realization. I couldn't go home. Number 1, I'm married and I just had to suck it up. And number 2, I was in Los Angeles. My folks were in Birmingham. For those of you who don't know, that's about a 30 hour drive, or a $300 plane ticket.
I'm sure there are some husbands who deal with this, but ladies, I think it is essential to our marriages that we grasp this concept:
"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and shall become united and cleave to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." Genesis 2:24 Amplified Bible.

So, Mr. Fabulous ticks me off. I pick up the phone and call momma, daddy, best friend, whoever. I tell them about the situation. Then later, we kiss and make up. Everything's right with the world in my house, but whoever I shared that info. with hasn't forgotten about that incident, and they are looking at and treating my man like he's a villain. Here's another example. I have a issue with my car. Mr. Fabulous tries to fix it, but that ain't his area. I call daddy for help without my man's consent. He gets upset. Now, I have crushed him, and totally disregarded his role as head of our home.

And in case you think that I'm being mean or preachy, think about this. If your husband called his mom everytime you didn't clean the toilet properly, or burned a casserole, would you be a little annoyed? Better yet, what if he called to tell her you weren't meeting all of his sexual needs. I don't know about you, but my head would literally explode. The cooking is my domain, and I don't want feel that I'm being judged. Neither does my husband.

Do you get where I'm going with this? I'm not saying cut all ties with your family. I am saying that aside from my relationship with Christ, my relationship with Fabulous come next. I need to preserve, nurture, and honor it at all costs. God tells us to leave and cleave. This isn't just physically leaving your parents home; I think this is me actively acknowledging that I'm no longer subject to their authority and protection. That job is now his, and I should respect that. Period. When I'm not sure how to best handle a situation, I need to shut up, go somewhere, and pray. I should let the Lord guide me through the conflict. I shouldn't blab our business to the world in an effort to get sympathy, or to give the impression that I'm running things. I do think that it's o.k. to have a couple of godly, married girlfriends who can give you wise counsel, but I can probably count the number of times that I have called a friend when he and I have had a disagreement.

If this is a serious issue with you, pray that God will show you from his Word how to unite with your man. Ask Him to send someone into your life that can show you what this looks like. It may not change overnight, but the Lord can make it better, and you will be a blessing to your husband.

What A Blessing

2010-01-22T09:26:00.000-08:00

It is truly a blessing to have a husband who is pursuing Christ with all of his heart. This morning my husband shared with me that he has three prayer partners. He has asked these men to hold him accountable for spiritual growth and loving his wife (that's me!). This was something that he saw a need for and intiated. All I can say is wow. It is so important that we surround ourselves with people who can challenge and encourage us through the Word of God. However, it seems that women are more likely to take this step. So ladies, if you know that your husband doesn't have godly men in his life to encourage him, don't nag. Just pray that the Lord will bring people like into his life.

And let us consider and give [a]attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities, Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:24,25 Amplified Bible

Quality Time- Part 2

2010-01-19T11:52:00.000-08:00

I just finished a lengthy conversation with my mom about raising kids and being married. The conversation made me think of another reason why we need to nurture our relationships with our spouses. In the grand scheme of the things, you only have a few years before your precious babies will be heading to college or other worldly pursuits. What are you going to do when the "nest" is empty? Will you have devoted so much time to the munchkins and so little time to your Boo that you guys will have nothing to talk about, and nothing in common? My mom said the day I rode into the sunset with my new husband and a U-haul, she and my dad walked back into the house, sat on the couch, and talked (Did I get a few tears?). She said that the thought never occcured to her that she and my dad wouldn't make it after the kids left. The sad part is that this is happening to empty nesters everywhere. Her advice? Invest the time into each other now. Take care of the kids, but let your Boo know that he is a priority.

Quality Time

2010-01-18T09:49:00.000-08:00

I think that we must be careful not to allow our children to be a buffer between us and our husbands. If your idea of spending quality time with your husband involves little Timmy and JoJo, you might want to re-evaluate your plans. I do think that it is important to spend time together as a family, but if the only way that I enjoy being with my husband is when the kids are tow, then I may want to regroup. Ladies, I spend all day with my children. I have a great relationship with my kids because I spend so much time with them. However, my husband deserves to have some interrupted attention. Heck, I deserve it too, and the end of the day, my kids will benefit from seeing that mommy and daddy really do value each. So ladies, if you are using your kids as a means of hiding from your husband, call a babysitter right now, and take your honey out on a date.

Gestures of Appreciation

2010-01-15T08:55:00.000-08:00

A recent conversation with a friend made me wonder how much we really appreciate the gestures of appreciation and affection that we receive from our husbands. I don't mean the ones he throws at you that you know have some sort of sexual motivation (although those ain't so bad, and we do need to respond positively to them). I'm talking about him opening the door for you, cooking you a fabulous breakfast of runny eggs and dry toast, or buying you a piece of jewelry, clothing, etc. that you wouldn't were to a dog fight. Many times, I get a plate of eggs for breakfast, even though I'm not a big egg fan. I try to graciously eat them and give him an ''A" for effort. On the other hand, I sometimes get french toast drenched with maple syrup, gingerbread latte from Starbucks, or a candy bar from the drugstore. It's simple, and he thinks I'm nuts, but I love that stuff. I love it because I know it's his way of trying to consider me. It's not a diamond ring, but it's simply that he thought of me. The next time your husband brings you something that you may or may not be that impressed with, thank God that you have a husband who cares for you, and is trying to demonstrate that. Then you demonstrate it back!

All My Single Ladies...

2010-01-10T16:46:00.000-08:00

Three of my oldest friends are 30 and single. Periodically they talk to me about how trying this can be, especially when it seems like everybody has somebody, and the way to get somebody is to throw all of your standards and godly principles to the wind. The other side of that coin is that I know of some situations in which the women in particular compromised and paid dearly. I know some situations in which women ( and to be fair, men) thought they were getting one person and ended up with someone totally different. And I don't mean learning that the person snores or is messy.

So experienced married folks, how do we encourage the single ladies in our lives? Putting "a ring on it" is not worth the heartache if you have to settle. I believe this why the Scriptures are very clear when it says "Do not be unequal yoked with unbelievers" (2 Corinthians 6:14). This scripture can apply to all sorts of situations but it is a giant stop sign for marriage. Now, some of us have made choices that don't reflect this principle, maybe because we didn't know, or maybe we chose to ignore it. If we do end up in a situation like this, the Bible tells us that if we are living holy before our spouses we can draw them to Christ (1 Peter 3: 1 & 2). The question is, how much do you have to endure before we get there?

To all my single ladies, I say hold on. The Lord hears you, know where you are, and has something fabulous in store for you. The grass might look greener, but it could be astroturf.

The Battle of the Lumps

2010-01-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

This isn't really a recipe; it's more of a tip. My draft for this post was hand-written as I was covered in flour and babysitting a pan of gravy. It is rare that I make gravy; so rare in fact, that I've never really mastered the art, although the student in me knows the theory. O.k., here's my tip: if you get lumpy gravy, dump it in the blender and give it a whirl. It's fine if you need to return it to the stove for a few minutes, but you will be amazed at how perfectly smooth the gravy will be. Ah, thank God for the Osterizer!

Grooming

2010-01-06T11:11:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I decided to have my eyebrows threaded. Basically the lady uses thread to shape the eyebrows. Can I say I was about to fly out of that chair? It felt like she was snatching one of my eyeballs out! Actually, if you tweeze or wax, the threading will be a piece of cake. I've using razors on my brows for a long time, so I felt like that chick was about to kill me. However, I loved the results. It's been about three weeks, and I'll probably go tomorrrow for a redo. If I had used my usual method, I would have touched them up two weeks ago. I can't wait until I get used to the discomfort so that I won't have to cry like a wimp.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T07:34:00.000-08:00

I'm a few days late, but Happy New Year! I trust that you and yours had a fabulous time during the holiday season. My husband was off for two weeks, and we basically did nothing for two weeks. It was great! We are always on the go, especially during the holidays, so it was nice to not run around trying to visit the world like headless chickens.

Starting a new year has made me reflect on the things I'm thankful for. It's so easy for me to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life that I forget to live with a thankful attitude.

I am thankful for Christ paying the penalty for my sin by dying on the cross and rising again so that I could have the security of eternal life with Him. I am thankful that he blessed me with an absolutely fabulous husband who is far greater than anyone I asked the Lord for. I am definitely grateful for my beautiful babies who keep me hopping and laughing. In spite of the daily challenges of being a wife and a stay at home parent, I feel absolutely blessed that God is using me to raise children who have a heart for him, to be the trusty sidekick for a great man, and as a tool to encourage you.

Night on the Town

2009-12-18T06:47:00.000-08:00

When you spend your days covered in spit up, dirty diapers, laundry, and kids, you look forward to the opportunity to get "spiffy" and have night out on the town. That is exactly what my husband and I did last night! We attended the Holiday Gala sponsored by the 100 Black Men of America, Greater Huntsville Chapter. The organization focuses on giving back to the community by mentoring African American males, as well as funding scholarships and other philanthropic (big word) programs.

We had a great time, and it was nice, at least for a few hours, to just feel like a sexy woman being admired by her husband.

I'm Smitten!

2009-12-17T22:26:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I get bored with cooking the same meals over and over again. I don't think my husband cares as long as it's not carb crazy or burned. However, I want to enjoy the process. I'm not interested in elaborate concoctions ;I just want good food that's easy to prepare. If you feel the same way, I highly recommend checking out Mark Bittman. He isn't a chef; he's a food columnist for the New York Times, and has written a cookbook called How to Cook Everything. I love this guy because he will give a recipe, and then provide you with several variations of the recipe. Fabulous! Now, I must say that I am also a little cheap. I haven't bought the book yet, but he has a website called markbittman.com, a blog called Bitten at bitten.blogs.nytimes.com , and is often featured on "The Today Show". You can find tons of recipes at those sources. Try a few, and if you feel inspired, buy the book. I'm sure it's a great investment, I'm just too cheap!

Magic Fairy Dust

2009-12-17T01:24:00.000-08:00

Here's a little cleaning tip. The next time you come face to face with a hard to clean pot or pan, wet the surface and sprinkle on some baking soda (a little dish detergent won't hurt either). Then scrub away. This trick works wonders. If the pan insists on putting up a fight, pour on some white vinegar. You might feel like a mad scientist at this point, but you will get the job done. Please note, I've tried this on stainless steel and glass cookware, but I don't own any non-stick pans, so I don't know if this will damage teflon coatings. Proceed with caution.

Let's Go...

2009-12-17T00:49:00.000-08:00

Wow! I can't believe I'm finally getting started with this project! I have wanted to create a blog for a about a year now, but couldn't quite get my ideas to gel. But, after tons of blood, sweat, and tears, (o.k., maybe not) here I am. Here we are. Let me begin by thanking you for joining me on this journey.

I'm sure your mama told you to never talk to strangers, and traveling with them is definitely out. Since we should always heed mama's advice, allow me to introduce myself. I am a 30 year old wife and mother of two. After a pitiful attempt at working while I was pregnant with my second child, my husband and I decided that it would be best for our family if I stayed home. That was a year ago. And so, here we are.

Why are we here? I am here because I like to call myself a "lifelong learner" and I decided that I want to share some of the things that I've been learning about marriage, children, keeping my home, and a host of other issues. I hope you are here because these are issues that are close to your heart as well.

So, if you are a stay at home mom, a working out of the home mom, or a future wife, join me on my journey. Hopefully your will be encouraged and enlightened. You may even get a laugh or two.