Quote from Forum Archives on March 18, 2008, 2:09 pm

Posted by: jhbreneman <jhbreneman@...>

 

HEART TO HEART NEWSLETTER
ENCOURAGEMENT TO WOMEN
Compiled especially for you with love by Lois Breneman

 

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3/18/08  Clutter Busters, Laughter, Work-At-Home, Mentor, Heaven, Moms, Kids

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Many subscribers are dropped from "Heart to Heart" simply because they forget to send me their new address.  For e-mail address changes, please reply to this newsletter with your name, your old and new e-mail address.  Otherwise your address will automatically be dropped from the Master E-mail List by the server I use.  Please contact me if you are ever dropped from the list by simply hitting "reply."

 

IN THIS ISSUE: 

OUR THIRD GRANDCHILD HAS ARRIVED!

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT EASTER BEING ON MARCH 23 THIS YEAR
WAVING THE BANNER FOR CHRIST
PERSISTENT

15 CLUTTER BUSTERS ~ EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATIONAL TOOLS

LAUGHTER

THE GIFTED WORK-AT-HOME PARENT

SPECIFIC IDEAS FOR WORKING AT HOME

CROCKPOT SLOPPY JOES

MY GRANDMOTHER ~ MY MENTOR

MY  HEAVENLY  HOME 
MOMENTS FOR MOM
TWO PARENTING TIPS

STANDING AMAZED AT GOD'S GOODNESS!

FLOATING ON A CLOUD OF JOY!

CUTE KIDS' QUOTES

GARDENING TIPS

 

 

OUR THIRD GRANDCHILD HAS ARRIVED!

 

Our precious little grandson, Daniel Joel Breneman, was born on Monday morning, March 17, 2008 at 8:41, to Jeff and Rachael Breneman in Ohio.  John and I are so thankful and joyful to the Lord for His great gift!  Daniel came a little early - 2 1/2 weeks, but we thank the Lord that he is still a wee bit over 6 pounds, healthy, and already nursing well.  His parents and little Daniel are all doing well, and will be coming home today. 

       

Jeff called us fifteen minutes after their son was born to share their good news.  He let me hear Daniel over the phone as he held onto his daddy's finger!  I hope Jeff wasn't pinching the sweet little fella, as I heard his precious little whimpers!  They said last night that he is very content and only cried at birth and during his first bath.  His little sounds were so precious to hear, even over the phone, as his Pawpa and Grammie were hanging onto every little sound he made!  We are very anxious to see him before too long!  Rachael said they had visitors all day long, and everyone said how they think he looks a lot like Jeff, including possibly inheriting his daddy's tall stature, which pleased them.

 

Jeff and Rachael had chosen their son's name long before he was born.  It was interesting to be reminded about the Irish song, "Oh, Danny Boy," with his arrival being on St. Patrick's Day!  Daniel's birthday is just one day before his cousin, Justin's, who is five years old today - our first grandchild, as you all know!  Both of our grandsons were born just 7 and 8 days after their Grammie's birthday!  What precious gifts of God they are to us, as well as Justin's adorable 7 month old sister, Ryan Elizabeth! 

 

Many of you have asked about Ryan Elizabeth's  heart, since you have been praying for her.  We thank all of the many family, friends and "Heart to Heart" ladies who have prayed for the hole in her heart to close.  It doesn't appear that she will need open heart surgery.  We haven't had the word from her doctor that it is fully closed yet, but she is doing well and is now above 15 pounds, which is still small for her age, but she is the happiest and most content little girl, smiling and laughing a lot!  Your continued prayers for her are so appreciated until we know the hole is completely closed.  Yesterday I heard Ryan Elizabeth saying, "Baby" over the phone at Joy's prompting.  She already loves her baby dolls, and is also saying, "Mama" and "Dada!" 

 

The Lord surely knew what great and precious blessings grandchildren would be as we age!  Do I hear a hearty, "Amen" from all the grandparents and great-grandparents out there in cyber space?

 

 

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT EASTER BEING ON MARCH 23 THIS YEAR
Source unknown.  Thanks to Sarah (Zipfel) Hillyer in Georgia for sending this.

        This year Easter is on Sunday, March 23, 2008.  As you may know Easter is always the 1st Sunday after the 1st full moon after the Spring Equinox (which is March 20).  This dating of Easter is based on the lunar calendar that Hebrew people used to identify Passover which is why it moves around on our Roman calendar. 

        Based on the above information, Easter can actually be one day earlier (March 22) but that is pretty rare. The last time Easter was on March 22 was 1818.  The next time it will be on March 22 will be in the year 2285 (277 years from now).  So no one alive today has or will ever see it any earlier than this year!  This year is the earliest Easter any of us will ever see the rest of our lives!  And only the most elderly of our population have ever seen it this early (95 years old or above!).  None of us has ever or will ever see it a day earlier!

        Here are the facts: The last time it was this early was 1913.  So if you're 95 or older, you are the only ones that were around for that!  The next time Easter will be this early (March 23) will be 220 years from now, in the year 2228.

 

 

WAVING THE BANNER FOR CHRIST
By Beverly Anthony in Virginia

For it's in the Name of our Jehovah-Nissi, The Lord Our Banner, I humbly write.

 

        If you've lived in Virginia for any amount of time, you've witnessed on the highways and byways the excitement on Virginia Tech's game day.  Maroon and orange banners and shirts proudly waving and proclaiming, "I Love Virginia Tech!"  Oh, the devotion of such unashamed, unhindered followers.  Is there, however, sneering and snickering opposition to their claim?  You'd better believe it!  Do those proud Hokie fans stop proclaiming their loyalty?  Not on their life!

        With the anticipated arrival of Easter Day, the time has come once again to wave my Easter flag, adorned with a cross, and to deck out my mailbox with bright white Easter lilies.  Passersby can read the Truth posted on the wood, exclaiming, "Hallelujah, Jesus Is Risen!"  Has there been sneering, scoffing and scorning opposers, denying this claim?  Yes!  Does this or should this opposition hinder a proud follower of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, from declaring her loyalty?  By the grace of God, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, not on my life!

        God's Word says in Psalm 60:4, "Thou hast given a banner to those who fear Thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth."

        Therefore, beloved church, the charge resounds again because ...

 

"There's a royal banner given for display to the soldiers of the King,

As an ensign fair we lift it up today while as ransomed ones we sing.

 

Though the foe may rage and gather as a flood, let the standard be displayed,

And beneath its folds, as soldiers of the Lord, for the Truth be not dismayed.

 

Marching on, Marching on!  For Christ count everything but loss,

And to crown Him King, we'll toil and sing, beneath the banner of the cross!"

 

PERSISTENT
© 2006, Stacy R. Miller,  Proverbs 31 devotionals, Used by permission

One night as I watched our hamster, I thought about how persistent she is in trying to escape from her cage.  It never fails.  Every single night, as soon as she awakens, she starts seeking a way out of that cage.  When one tactic doesn't work, she will resort to another.

 

It made me think about my walk with God.  Am I that persistent to seek after my Father every day?  When I go through a dry season in my devotional times, will I diligently pursue a different route to find Him?  Could I be accused of persistence when it comes to seeking my Lord?  Do I persistently spend time with Him every day?  Or, am I only persistent when my back is against the wall?

 

Proverbs 21:5 tells us that the plans of the diligent lead to profit.  In relation to our time with the Lord, if we are diligent in spending time with Him, it will profit us greatly in the many things that we face every day.

First Timothy 4:15 tells us to be diligent in matters pertaining to the Word of God.  The result is that others will see our spiritual progress.  Not that we should specifically seek out being godly just so that others notice, but it is refreshing when someone comments on the spiritual growth they see taking place in our lives.

 

In Second Timothy 3:16, we find that all scripture is useful.  If we haven't been persistent in spending time in the Word, we need to start small.  Rather than trying to read for long periods of time, try reading for five minutes.  Since all scripture is profitable and useful to us, we will find something there that will teach us, rebuke us, correct us, or train us.  Start small and see what God will begin to teach you as you begin to be persistent about reading His Word. 

 

 
15 CLUTTER BUSTERS ~ EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATIONAL TOOLS

By Lois Breneman, © 2008, Heart to Heart Newsletter, jhbreneman@juno.com 

 

We all struggle with clutter piling up and accumulating around our home, and we have to continually work at finding new and better ways of organizing everything, so we can find what we need when we need it!   Here are some of my favorite clutter busters which when put into practice become good organizational tools for the home.

 

Drawer Dividers ~ Using small compartments in drawers helps immensely to keep things organized.  Even empty stationery or Velveeta cheese boxes, covered with contact paper, work great to keep things organized.  If you have a junk drawer, a compartmentalized tray will save much time and frustration when trying to locate items.

 

Under-the-Bed Organizers ~ These expand your storage space for out of season clothing, blankets, gifts on hand, etc.  Lids keep everything dust free.   I'm sure you'll find plenty to stash away under the beds!

 

Lockers for Each Family Member ~ I recently found individual 6 foot tall unfinished wooden lockers at a local craft store.  With a 50% off coupon, one locker would cost only $45, and you could paint them to match your home decor.  These lockers had no door, though a door could be added, if you'd like.  Lockers would save a lot of clutter, providing a specific place for each child's school books, coats hung on a hook, and lots of personal belongings, made ready to go out the door each day.  For homeschooling families, this would be a priceless tool as well.  Of course, if there is someone in the family capable of woodworking, they could make them.

 

Round Tables with Shelves Underneath ~ These are very inexpensive, but can be dressed up with a lovely round tablecloth and a lace top, as well as a round piece of glass.  The "secret compartment" below will store extra boxes of cereal, canned goods, you name it!

Lazy Susans / Turntables ~ These can be found at dollar stores and are an ingenious little item for storing spices, cleaning supplies, and so much more - all neatly arranged and easy to retrieve.  I like to use these in my kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, and on closet shelves to make things more accessible.  Two-tiered turning tables work especially well for spices, arranged 

alphabetically, making them much easier to find.

 

Plastic Totes with Handle ~ These are handy for carrying cleaning supplies, crafts, toys, and I'm sure you'll find many other uses.

 

Photo Boxes ~ Find these at a craft store, but you can store almost anything in them - not just photos.  They stack nicely and provide a slot for a label.  Shoe boxes, covered with contact paper works as well.

 

Shoe Box for Storing Lids ~ Cover a shoe box with contact paper and store larger plastic lids in it, standing them on end.  For plastic small lids, line them up in a plastic box designed for storing cassette tapes. 

Swing-Out Trash Bag ~ A wooden shelf installed low inside a cabinet door under the kitchen sink works great for trash.  A paper grocery bag, set on the shelf, with a wire frame fastened at the top of the door to hold the bag in place works real well.  Also if the top inch of the paper bag is folded downward toward the inside of the bag, that will help the bag stay open.  A trash can that fits on the shelf is another option.  A tall plastic bag placed inside the paper bag will prevent leaks from messy garbage.

Clear Plastic Shoe Bags ~ The inside of closet doors are normally unused spots, so why not claim this hidden area for valuable bonus storage!  Clear plastic shoe pocket organizers hung inside closet doors can hold a multitude of necessary items, and help in finding things much easier, since everything is visible while still in each pocket. Most organizers have twenty-four pockets, so just think of all that extra storage space!  Use the inside of your coat closet door for storing items such as gloves, scarves, hats, sunglasses, umbrellas, lip balm, coupons, pens, small note tablets, etc.  Another closet door might become a Medicine Cabinet with tubes, Band-Aids, and other items.  In the Nursery it might hold an aspirator, thermometer, etc.  Inside an office or bedroom closet door the storage ideas are endless.

Hooks for Hanging ~ Install hooks in the bathrooms for hanging towels or to temporarily hang clothes while dressing.  Use hooks in other areas of your home for hanging coats, mops, brooms and other cleaning supplies.

Fabric Drawstring Bags ~ These are perfect for storing small toys that you want to keep together.  They can be stored in a basket or on hooks on the wall.  Of course, it's a good idea to teach your children to get only one or two bags out at a time.

 

Ziploc Bags ~ This great invention will hold patterns, puzzle pieces, toys, etc.

 

A TV Remote Holder ~ In our home my husband gave our remote control the name of the 

"Blipper!"  It's amazing how many times "Where's the blipper?" is said in homes across the world!   A fabric "Blipper Bag" to lay over the arm of an easy chair would solve the problem.

 

Laundry Sorting Bin ~ If everyone in your family is taught to sort the laundry as they pitch it into a sorting bin, you can easily see when a load needs laundered.  Not only does it teach the children how to sort laundry, but it makes your job easier.

 

I'm sure many of us already use some of these clutter busters as organizational tools in our homes, but there's always room for each of us to improve, including myself!

 

 

LAUGHTER

...He who has a glad heart has a continual feast - regardless of circumstances. - Prov. 15:15

The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese!
Borrow money from a pessimist — they don't expect it back!
I didn't fight my way to the top of the food chain to be a vegetarian!
Never answer an anonymous letter!
No one is listening until you make a mistake!
He who laughs last, thinks slowest!
Just remember: You are unique! Just like everyone else!
Why is "abbreviation" such a long word?
Change is inevitable ... except from vending machines!
A clear conscience is usually a sign of a bad memory!
Be nice to your children — they are the ones who pick your nursing home!
I don't find it hard to meet expenses. They are everywhere!
For every action, there is an equal and opposite criticism!
IRS: We've got what it takes to take what you have got!
I used to think that I was indecisive, but ...  now I am not too sure!
I can handle pain - until it hurts!
Gravity always gets me down!
Atheism is a non-prophet organization.
If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence that you tried.

If at first you don't succeed, don't try skydiving!
We are all part of the ultimate statistic — ten out of ten die!
If Barbie is so popular, why do we have to buy her friends?
 
"Laughter is the medicine intended to cure the disease of self-importance. It's hard to puff yourself up to weather balloon size if you can deflate yourself with a good prick of self-directed humor. How many laughs are you having -- some at your own expense? Have you, as a couple, claimed the promise, "He will yet fill your mouth with laughter, and your lips with shouting." (Job 8:21) Before the wedding ceremony, many couples need to have a bold objective for their first year of marriage: Over the next year, we will be found guilty of having too much fun rather than too little fun.  That is not a bad objective for any year of marriage." -- Dennis & Barbara Rainey

 

 

THE GIFTED WORK-AT-HOME PARENT

Homebodies - By Cheryl Gochnauer - homebodies@comcast.net - © 2005 - Permission
 
I often receive emails from parents who want to trade in their 8 to 5 jobs for work-at-home opportunities.  I continually hear this phrase:  "I don't really know what I want to do - but I know it's not sales!"
 
That probably disappoints a lot of companies seeking trainees who will join them in marketing everything from software to cooking supplies.  But I'm happy to hear these prospective work-at-home parents whittling down their prospects.  After all, it's no good to jump into something, then jump right back out again when you realize it's not for you.
 
If I could ask one question of everyone who wonders what they should do, it would be, "What is your gift?"  Everybody has a gift.  Some gifts are more obvious than others, but we've all got at least one.  The key to choosing a successful at-home business - including sales, if that's your specialty - is matching your gift with your endeavor. 

For instance, though my ministry revolves around parenting, I'd last about 3 hours as a daycare provider.  I've always been great at spelling, grammar and telling stories, however - all natural assets for a writer.  Someone who knows me well is more likely to recommend me as a  freelancer than as a babysitter.
 
Not sure what your gift is?  Often other people spot our strengths long before we see them in ourselves.  Sit down with a friend, your spouse, your parents - anyone who has known you for a long time; someone you can trust to be truthful with you.  Ask what gifts they see in you; things you're good at, areas where you excel. 

As you listen to their answers, mentally test their observations against what you know about yourself.  When the comments ring true, write them down.  This is a solid lead.  Now concentrate your search on jobs that compliment your personality and giftedness.
 
Depending upon the opportunities available in your area, you may or may not be able to find that perfect match.  But having an idea of where your strengths - and weaknesses - lie will help you in your search.

 

 

SPECIFIC IDEAS FOR WORKING AT HOME

By Lois Breneman, © 2008, Heart to Heart Newsletter, jhbreneman@juno.com 

 

Many ladies ask me what they might be able to do to earn some income (not necessarily full time, but part time), while staying at home.  See if any of these ideas below fit your talents or interests.  Be aware that you will need to have a business license and follow the laws of your locality.   Also remember that a job at home could require too much of your time, squeezing out valuable family time.   Being a wife, mother and homemaker is a big job in itself!

 

Type term papers for college students                Tutoring

Type medical transcripts                                       Teach music lessons

Free lance writer                                                     Author of children's stories

Sell on e-Bay                                                           Preschool child care                                              After school child care                                            Jewelry Making

Make items to sell on consignment                      Custom sewing and alterations

Machine Embroidery                                              Knitting and Crocheting

Painting                                                                    Woodworking

Specialty Cakes                                                     Photography

Handmade Cards                                                   Planning birthday parties

Quilt making - A friend of mine stays very busy keeping up with orders for lap quilts and similar sewing projects.

* Let it be known that you would be available during spring break to provide child care.         

* Teach classes in your home for adults or children (Sewing, cooking, crafts, jewelry making). 

* Years ago I cared for a small group of girls after school and taught them various forms of home economics, and they really enjoyed it.  I also gave a list of all we did to their moms.

* Cook meals for others in your home.  Some people want home cooked meals but don't want to go to the bother to cook them.  Many elderly people find it difficult to cook for one person, but they enjoy home cooked meals at home, even some made to freeze.

* I know women who enjoy making craft items throughout the year to sell at a craft fair.

 

Even if you don't have a job in your home earning money, you can still save a huge bundle by finding gift ideas of items you can make well at home, rather than purchasing gifts.  Make what you do best.  We've all heard, "A penny saved is a penny earned," but that's not quite true.  Saving money is much more beneficial than earning it.  You don't have to deal with paying taxes on the money you save!  And not only that, it's lots of fun to make things and save, and most people love to receive a handmade gift!

 

 

CROCKPOT SLOPPY JOES

Diana Rattray  http://southernfood.about.com/od/crockpotgroundbeef/r/bl68c6.htm

(Note from Lois: Ground beef could be replaced with ground chicken or turkey.  *Sucanat, Stevia or Xylitol could be substituted for sugar as a healthier choice.)

 

2 pounds lean ground beef                            3 tablespoons brown sugar *      
1 medium onion, chopped                             2 tablespoons prepared mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced                                   2 tablespoons cider vinegar 
1 cup ketchup                                                  1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 bell pepper, seeded and chopped         hamburger buns
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

In a heavy skillet, brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain off excess fat.  Combine ketchup, bell pepper, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and chili powder in slow cooker. Stir in ground beef mixture. Cover and cook on LOW setting for 5 to 7 hours. Serve spooned over hamburger buns, with a side salad.  Serves 6 to 8.

MY GRANDMOTHER ~ MY MENTOR

By Robyn Armijo, Chile, South America

A recent newsletter was about Grandparents and mentors, so I thought I would send you this little article that I just wrote about my Grandmother who was a mentor to me. 

        My Grandma was a very elegant lady.  She was so beautiful that I always thought she could be a movie star.   She was very friendly and wherever she went people loved her. I believe that what I saw in her was the reflection of the Lord in her life.  I'll never forget the tea and conversations that Grandma and I had where she would tell me about her life experiences; how she met Grandpa and all of the details of their courtship, marriage (one night together) and waiting to be together for years until after WWII was over (as he was stationed in Hawaii), how she accepted Christ as her Savior and many other stories which she wove a lesson or Bible teaching into. 

        Grandma was my inspiration to serve the Lord with my life.  She told me about her dream to study at Moody Bible Institute and encouraged me to study the Bible there also.  I never forgot how she taught me to pray using ACTS (adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication) and how it became a part of my life.  I found her many times in her chair praying and reading her Bible. 

        She was always a wonderful example for me and to all of those around her in her words, actions and attitudes. On January 12, 2008, at the age of 89, she went home to be with her Lord.   As a legacy she left for me a journal, that I had given her back in 1983, in which she wrote special things about her life and her spiritual life. I can’t wait to get it and begin reading it and learning more from her and about her.  I will always remember her with great love in my heart and admiration.

MY  HEAVENLY  HOME

by Lois Walker Breneman, © 1999

In memory of her mother, Dorothy Elizabeth Kohr Walker 

 

As I entered the gate, I beheld Jesus' face!

He said, "Welcome Home, My child, you have finished the race.

You've had much pain and suffering in your earthly life,

But you've been a faithful friend, mother and wife."

 

"You were dedicated to Me to the very end,

Loving, serving, praying --- on Me you did depend.

You searched and read My Word to see how I would lead.

You daily sought My face in prayer, and in your trials would plead."

 

"You taught your children, in My steps to go.

You were not perfect, but with My help you did grow.

Your goal was to glorify your Savior above,

And to show forth in you, My undying love."

 

"You have trusted in Me for your payment of sin.

Because you've accepted My gift, I have let you come in

To My Heaven -- so glorious -- free of death and all sorrow,

Where time is no more -- no today or tomorrow."

 

I looked all around and saw countless happy faces.

Friends gone before were coming from all places

To welcome me Home.  We walked all around

The River of Life, so crystal clear, with a rippling sound.

 

The Lord is our King -- so majestic His throne.

The wall is of jasper, adorned with precious stone.

The street is pure gold, like transparent glass,

Surrounded by such beauty of perfect flowers and grass.

 

There's no need of the sun or the moon to shine,

Illuminated by God's glory so divine.

The Lamb is the Light.  There's celestial air.

Nothing to compare in this world anywhere!

 

There's no heartache or pain in this city foursquare.

Not a single disease, tear, worry or care.

The twelve gates of pearl, the city --- pure gold,

In this magnificent Land where we'll never grow old.

 

I'll be waiting here for you at the gate.

Be sure you are ready. Don't wait too late.

Trust in Christ as your Savior and live for Him there,

For I'm longing to see you, so please meet me there.

 

I know you may miss me, but don't cry for me.

Stand firm in the faith, until Jesus you see.

Then soon, hand in hand, on the street of pure gold,

We'll walk and we'll talk, in communion untold.

  

 

"And He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there shall no

longer be any death; there shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or

pain: the first things have passed away." Revelation 21:4

 

 "And then one day I'll cross the river, I'll fight life's final war with

pain; and then as death gives way to victory, I'll see the lights of

glory and I'll know He lives."   Gloria & Bill Gaither

 

"For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the

voice of the archangel and with the trump of God.  And the dead in Christ

shall rise first.  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up

together in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so shall we ever

be with the Lord!  Wherefore, comfort one another with these words!" 

I Thes. 4:16 - 18 

MOMENTS FOR MOM
By Elisabeth K. Corcoran, © February 2008, www.elisabethcorcoran.com, Used by permission

I’ve been thinking a lot about moving more slowly.  How I run through my days.  I’ve been running through my kids’ childhood.  (In ten years, they won’t be living with me anymore.  Ten years…)  How Jesus calls us to give him our burdens and in exchange He will give us rest.  To quote a speaker friend of mine, Keri Kent, Jesus never said to us, “Get over here!  I have a lot for you to do!”  I laughed loudly when I heard her say that.  Maybe because it resonated so deeply.  Maybe because I’ve deep down actually thought that.  A good Christian woman serves God.  That’s what we’re supposed to do.  Sure.  But are we supposed to run ourselves into the ground?  Do I want my children, my daughter especially, equating ministry with exhaustion and meetings and tasks that don’t really fit who I am?   

I had the privilege to go away for two days right after the new year started.  I love doing that each year to look back over the past year…you know, take stock.  I spent the first day reading my journals from the past fifteen months.  If you’re not a journal writer or even only a sporadic one, no big deal, right?  But if you’re like me, a fairly faithful everyday journal keeper, well, then that’s another story.  It took me nine hours to read them (and I knew how everything was going to turn out!).  And when I was done I had a headache and I was depressed.  And why was that?  Because a few themes bubbled to the surface for me in that marathon reflection.  One, the number of times that I complained about something in my life gave me pause…okay, to be more honest, I was ashamed because I am really, really blessed.  And two, the number of times I said something like, “I’m low energy this morning” or “Wish I could stay here on the couch in my jimmies today…that’s not gonna happen for another week or so” were innumerable.  And it made me sad.  It made me sad to think that I’ve filled this past year of my life with activities, many of them apparently, that I don’t enjoy, that I don’t find fulfilling, that just don’t fit me or my season of life.  I’m running.  But for what?  For who? 

 

If I think I’m doing all of this to please God, well, I think I’ve got another thing coming.  Because to be truthful, I don’t know the last time really that I handed God my day or my agenda and just asked him what He wanted me to be doing.  I’ve been doing what I’ve been doing for years now and I think it’s starting to hit me that what I’m doing and who I’m wanting to be just don’t fit anymore.  I’ve been round-hole/square-pegging it for a while.  Longer than I want to admit.  Longer than I may even know.

So I’m left with some questions.  Should I keep on doing and doing and doing, or can I stop?  And if I just stopped for awhile, even a long while, what would that mean, what would that look like, and dare I ask what’s really deep down, what would other people and God think of me?  Who stops?  Who isn’t busy?  No one I know.  But I’m letting myself realize and re-remember that God called me to an abundant, free, joyful life, not a packed-out, constricting, complain-y busy one full of activities that just endure and that sometimes make me cringe.  And, and this is the best part, bottomline, my Heavenly Father’s going to love me no matter what.  Even if I stop.  And even if you do too. 

 

So, Moms, think about it.  Are you running too hard, too fast, through your life?  Consider stopping, breathing, resting, finding the real you underneath it all, asking God what you should be filling your time with.  Even if it’s just for a little while. 

 

Elisabeth Corcoran is the author of In Search of Calm: Renewal for a Mother’s Heart (2005) and Calm in My Chaos: Encouragement for a Mom’s Weary Soul (2001).  She is wife to Kevin, and mom to Sara, 11, and Jack, 9-&-1/2.  Her passion is encouraging women and the Church, which she fulfills through serving in leadership on staff part-time at Christ Community Church – Blackberry Creek Campus in Aurora, Illinois, and writing and speaking as much as she can.  You can learn more about Elisabeth and her ministry at www.elisabethcorcoran.com . 

 

 

TWO PARENTING TIPS 
By Regina Landis in Pennsylvania

Here is something I have done when my children were little: When mom is weary and wishes to rest, and the little ones seem to have lots of energy, I would lay on the floor, with a comfy pillow under my head, and put my arms out. The children would then drive small plastic vehicles, tractors, etc. up my arms and across my back, you can even prop your feet up on a chair, so they can go up the "hill."  I have been surprised at how long they will play this.  It can be relaxing and you get a back rub to boot! 

Also, to combat sibling rivalry, each child has their "week."  It is their turn to go first, pick a game, sit by mom, do the dishes, pick a seat in the van when we go away, whatever was causing a squabble. This way, they each get a turn to be first, or get first choice, and it seems to help their respect of each other - "It's his turn, etc."  They know it's no use arguing over little things because they will get a turn too.  No, it hasn't solved everything, but has helped a LOT in our family!

 

 

STANDING AMAZED AT GOD'S GOODNESS!

Valerie Benzinger in Virginia: "I have a great story to share with you!!" - Used by permission
 
Our daughter, Aliesha, a junior at Liberty University, had told us this past weekend that she still needed $200 more for her missions trip (to Dominican Republic beginning this week and through the 22nd).  We would've loved to give it to her, but things have been quite "tight" due to some large insurance payments lately.  We asked her what she would do about the money and she said that either God would provide it for her or maybe others going would have had more given to them and those gifts could be used for her.  All along the way, she has voiced such faith in knowing that God would provide, since she felt called to go.
 
Well, here is the "rest of the story!"  Today, in one of her classes, the teacher asked who was going on a missions trip over Spring Break.  There were quite a few who were, so each told where they were going and with whom.  The teacher then asked if anyone still needed funds and Aliesha said that she still needed "a little bit."  The teacher prayed for each of the students and asked for God to provide the extra funding needed for Aliesha's trip.
 
After class, a fellow student in the class, a young man, who didn't even actually know Aliesha's name (and she did not know his), came up and introduced himself.  He told her that he had been planning to go on a missions trip to Mexico, but things didn't work out and he wanted to give her the money he had saved.  Could she wait right there while he ran up to his dorm?  "Of course," she said, "I certainly can --- and THANKS!!!" 
 
In a few minutes he returned with a check for her for $200 --- the very amount that she needed to complete her funding.  Aliesha said that she remembers when she was a girl reading the stories of George Mueller and being amazed at how God abundantly (and with perfect timing) provided for each of his needs --- and how much she wanted to be able to trust God like that.  She said she was so encouraged to see that God still works this way today as we trust in God's perfect provision!!
 
We hope this encourages each of you as you trust in God's perfect provision for your family also!!  (And we now know to be thankful even for large insurance payments---allowing room for God to work in ways we didn't expect!!)

 

 

FLOATING ON A CLOUD OF JOY!

I have a wonderful praise to pass onto you.  Our little 5 year old daughter, Jenna, just accepted Jesus as her Savior 2 weeks ago during our family Bible story time, so our other children were there, too. They had been so concerned for her spiritual condition the last two years.  Well,  I don't know who was more excited!  Her little heart was so ready.  She has loved Jesus so much ever since she could even utter a word and so readily accepted Him, but I often wondered ( and prayed daily about ) when she would realize her need for a Savior.   God orchestrated it all and used Sunday school teachers, lessons, AWANAs, memory verses and the book we are reading during Bible story time right now, which I highly recommend, The Lamb by John R. Cross.  (It's the child's version of A Stranger on the Road to Emmaus).  I am still in awe how He can open our spiritual eyes and draw a child to Himself in such amazing grace.  ...and I'm still floating on a cloud with joy!   🙂 - Beth Breon in Pennsylvania

 

 

CUTE KIDS' QUOTES

Ladies, thanks so much for all the wonderful kids' quotes you send to me!  I love them!

 

As I was putting Karlie, 4, down for a nap, she said, "My leg pits are hot!"  She meant the backs of her knees!  Just had to share. ~ From my niece, Julie Karsten in Washington

 

My grandson, Silas Laurin, 2, seems quite "taken" with newborn Jocelynn and almost in awe of her...seemed quite surprised to see her and find that she had two eyes, a mouth, and toes on her feet.  "She's not invisible," he said!  It was just so cute. ~ Terrie Futrell in Virginia

 

On the way home from church yesterday, two of my granddaughters were discussing what they had learned about not worshipping idols.  Anna told her daddy, "We don't worship idols, we worship God."  Three year old Abby said, "Daddy, we worship God, don't we?"  Daddy said "Yes, we do, Honey."  Abby replied, "Then why doesn't He ever come to church?"  ~ Jo Ann Taylor in Arkansas

 

You'll love this one too!

        A school teacher was helping one of her kindergarten students put on his snow boots. Even with her pulling and him pushing, the little boots didn't want to go on. After getting the second boot on, the little boy said, "They're on the wrong feet."
        She looked, and sure enough, they were. It wasn't any easier pulling the boots off than it was putting them on but she managed to keep her cool as together they worked to get the boots on the right feet.
        He then announced, "These aren't my boots." She bit her tongue rather than scream, "Why didn't you say so?" Once again, she struggled to help him pull the ill-fitting boots off his little feet. 
        No sooner had they gotten the boots off when he said, "They're my brother's boots. My Mom made me wear 'em." Now she didn't know if she should laugh or cry. She mustered up what grace and courage she had left to wrestle the boots on his feet again. 
        Helping him into his coat, she asked, "Now, where are your mittens?" He said, "I stuffed 'em in the toes of my boots."  ~ Thanks to www.biblicalparenting.org for this parenting story!

 

 

GARDENING TIPS will be sent in early April, including drought tolerant landscaping ideas!

 

 

Have a blessed Easter as we celebrate our Risen Lord!

    Please remember to pray for each dear Heart to Heart lady as you receive your newsletter.

                           Many ladies are going through very tough times and need our prayers!

Pray each day for the protection of our troops, as well as for their families left at home!

(¨`·.·´¨)                         God bless you and your family and keep you in His loving care!

 `·.¸(¨`·.·´¨)                            And remember, I love to hear from you dear ladies!

      `·.¸.·´                                               Your Heart to Heart friend,                                                                

"Heart to Heart"                                                                             Lois            

 

The purpose of the Heart to Heart Newsletter is to encourage women and build biblical values into daily living through practical creative ideas for the Christian family regarding marriage, children, homemaking, and much more.  Receive this free bimonthly newsletter by listing your name, city, state, e-mail address, and name of your referral person and sending it to Lois at <a title=mailto:jhbreneman@juno.com href="mailto:jhbreneman@juno.com">jhbreneman@juno.com.  New subscribers will receive a Welcome, a "Start-Up Kit," and several recent newsletters.

 

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