It wasn’t His Child

As Christmas is approaching I am reading the Christmas story. Have you ever read the story of Jesus’ birth in the bible? Ever read all the “begats”? Yeah, I always skip that part too, until yesterday. In the first Chapter of Matthew it lists all the begats from Abraham to Joseph… Hmmm? Joseph, the one who had no blood relation to Jesus. Yet the one that loved him, raised him and called him his own. His lineage was Jesus’ lineage, because of the covenant between Mary and Joseph, and between Joseph and God. Joseph accepted Jesus as his son in every way, and loved him in every way. He too carried the burden of the call on Jesus’ life.

Making Known God’s Goodness 4

“Crushed in soul, Hannah prayed to God and cried and cried—inconsolably. Then she made a vow:
Oh, God-of-the-Angel-Armies,
If you’ll take a good, hard look at my pain,
If you’ll quit neglecting me and go into action for me
By giving me a son,
I’ll give him completely, unreservedly to you.
I’ll set him apart for a life of holy discipline. Up before dawn, they worshiped God and returned home to Ramah. Elkanah slept with Hannah his wife, and God began making the necessary arrangements in response to what she had asked. Before the year was out, Hannah had conceived and given birth to a son. She named him Samuel, explaining, “I asked God for him.”
1Samuel 1:9-11; 19-20

Earlier I talked about the trip I made to Florida this summer, my Carolina Girls Trip. On that trip there were 5 women with 5 specific needs, and requests of God to answer. We all took the time to pray for each other, and really speak into each others lives over each situation. This story is specifically about Jessica.

Jessica has been trying to have a baby for 3 and 1/2 years now. She and her husband have done everything under the sun including (and I mean literally 🙂 ) standing on their head. We have prayed for her, and encouraged her every step of the way. Throughout the 3 and 1/2 years she has watched as every friend around her has had children. She has cheered with us, and been the best baby gift giver around. Never have I heard her begrudge anyone, and always been excited for everyone. She and her husband have done everything they possibly could think they needed to do to make God move for them. They got completely out of debt, they have taken care of themselves physically, followed every get pregnant scheme they could think of, but nothing seemed to move. This past summer they consulted a fertility doctor. They used nearly every medical tactic possible, but in the end nothing. Although the doctors told them there was absolutely nothing wrong with either of them, no one could explain why they were not pregnant.

In August, on our girls trip there were a few specific things that we all shared with her. I shared the story of Hannah, and how God did not respond to her embarrassment, or her desire to please her husband, God responded to her desire to please him. In another translation (NIV) 1Samuel 1:19 says “God remembered her”. The most important thing we all felt like God wanted her to know was to let go of the control. Although medical tactics are not bad, in her personal story she needed to see God be God. She had done everything in her power, now she needed to let God do it in His power.

She went home and talked it over with her husband, and sent us all an email saying they both agreed that was a word from God. She said she decided to focus on them and their marriage, enjoy their time together, and let God do his work that He has done without doctors for thousands of years. We have not heard much from her since, until about 8 a.m. this morning.

Four months ago was our trip, one month ago they conceived. No doctors, no medications, no planning, no temperatures taken just right, or any other measures except husband and wife and God’s perfect timing! She took two pregnancy tests to the doctors office and then had them draw blood to make sure. God had the perfect Christmas gift for them! Congratulations Jessica and Kevin!

Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. Phill. 4:6-9

Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner…God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.
You’re not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won’t last forever. It won’t be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does. 1Peter 4:12-13; 5:7-11

Creamy Hot Artichoke Dip

During the holidays there are always parties to go to, and items to bring. Here is one of my favorite quick and easy appetizers that is great for any occasion. Plus you can keep all these ingredients in your house, and have them on hand for those “oops I have nothing to make” moments. 🙂

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (14 oz) artichoke heart, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup Mayonaise
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped (I substitute with minced garlic about 1 tbs. Stays refrigerated forever! )

Directions:

  • Combine all ingredients
  • Bake uncovered at 350 degrees 25 minutes or until heated through.
  • Serve with french bread.

A Forward Worthy Of Repeating!

The last few weeks I have been Making known God’s Goodness. So many times we focus on all of the tragedies and things that are not going right in our life, and fail to remember the good things. This was a forward sent to me, and I thought it was well worth repeating. God’s goodness is there for those who choose to see it, and receive it!

A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed.
As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation.
They talked about so many things and various subjects.

When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said:
“I don’t believe that God exists.”

“Why do you say that?” asked the customer. “Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn’t exist.
Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children?

If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can’t imagine a loving God who would allow all of these things.” The customer thought for a moment, but didn’t respond because he didn’t want to start an argument. The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop.

Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and unkempt. The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber:

“You know what? Barbers do not exist.” “How can you say that?” asked the surprised barber. “I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!”
“No!” the customer exclaimed. “Barbers don’t exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside.”

“Ah, but barbers DO exist! That’s what happens when people do not come to me.” “Exactly!” affirmed the customer. “That’s the point! God, too, DOES exist! That’s what happens when people do not go to Him and don’t look to Him for help. That’s why there’s so much pain and suffering in the world.”

If suffering makes people believe God doesn’t exist then we need to shout God’s goodness, so others see that He does! Are we guilty of rehearsing our pain and suffering, or the goodness of God?

A Few Of MY Favorite Things

It’s Christmas time! Such a wonderful time of year to remember how blessed we are! Although I know it can be challenging and stressful with all the extra expenses, decorating, cleaning, and entertaining, it is still the most wonderful time of the year!

With all the recalls on toys and children’s products, it is difficult to find a gift that you feel safe about. Then for those buying gifts for children that do not have children themselves (as my single friends point out) it can be even more difficult! So, This year I wanted to make a list of a few toys and items my children have loved having, and I have loved them having. Most of these items are “Clutter-free” and serve a purpose, educational and fun! No items linked or mentioned are “affiliates”. They are simply products I have personally found to be great quality items. Any name brand items are linked, so simply click on the word to see the product for yourself.

1) Baby Tad (by Leap Frog) Appropriate for infants up to about 3 (as far as the wow factor). He is like a stuffed animal, but his bib, hands and feet are interactive. Babies can learn shapes, colors, and sing songs with Baby Tad. However the greatest, most used, feature for us is the “goodnight” button. It plays up to six minutes of lullabies. From the time my girls were infants I would play this at bedtime, now they can not go to sleep without it, but that is o.k. because it is battery operated and goes wherever we go. When we travel, as we all know, kids get fidgety and fussy. They get cranky but can’t seem to fall asleep because of all the stimulation. They can not get to their “quiet place” to fall asleep. Thus, Baby Tad is excellent. It is their one constant wherever they are to help them fall asleep. So as we travel we play his lullabies, and both my 2 year old and my 6 year old can be sent to dream land. Plus, unlike a CD or other musical prop, Anna can control it. If it goes off and she is not yet asleep, she just squeezes his hand and goes to sleep. She has been able to do that since before she was a year old.

2) Arts and Crafts (ages 1 and up)

You can not go wrong here. Every kid can always use fresh play-doh, finger paints, and googly eyes. My favorite A&C gifts are from “Melissa & Doug”. They have craft kits. Necklace sets, stamp sets, and “make your own purse” sets. These include everything you need for that craft, it comes in a nice wooden container so it can all be kept together. And all of their things are washable. That is the only thing you have to watch for… Be sure any paints, markers, or crayons are washable!

3) Family Passes to local attractions (1 and up)

If you are in an area where you have zoos, children’s Museums, water parks, etc. Family passes to these places are great! They are typically good for a year, so it gives to them all year long, and they are clutter free! Mostly older kids can really appreciate this, but parents really will! For the younger kid they need to hold something to appreciate it, so if you get them zoo passes give them a book about monkeys or an animal book with the passes inside. This way they can have something to hold. The Atlanta Zoo pass is actually only about $100 for 2 adults and up to 4 children. My sister and I bump it up to one extra adult for $15 more, and can take any friend and their children with us. Although it may be a little more than you would want to spend, it would be great if you had to buy for more than one child in a family. It could even be a great “family gift”, I know most moms would love receiving something like that.

4) Books (0 and up)

Again, always clutter free and educational. For infants and toddlers I recommend anything that is “touch and feel” and “lift the flap”. They love them because it is tactile stimulating, allowing them to be apart of the reading experience. Pop ups are not good for this age, they will tear them up. For preschool and young school age they would love early reader books. (I plan to give the “Bob books” to my K-5 daughter and niece for Christmas) And my personal favorite, of course, is Dr. Seuss! Ask the parents what types of books their children like. My K-5 daughter loves reading the American Girl books with me, but other children of the same age may be interested in something totally different.

5) Puzzles ( 1 and up)
Puzzles are great for nearly any age as well. They have chunky puzzles for little fingers, plus for the little ones a lot of them have the image painted to match the puzzle, this helps with matching skills. For the older ones, my girls both love floor puzzles. Their favorite “Melissa & Doug” Alphabet floor Train Puzzle. They are large pieces, so even little toddlers can play with it. With toddlers who do not yet know their letters, such as Anna, it is great activity. I give her the letter that is next in the train and say “A says “a” as in apple” She says “a – apple” and then places it down in the train. When they are older and know their “ABC” song and are recognizing their letters, they can do it themselves.

6) Fisher Price Little People (For ages 1 – 4)

These are great, and can be found for boys and girls. From farms to doll houses, pirate ships, to playgrounds, I love these! Most of us remember the farm with the mooing cows and neighing horses. They are big pieces, so no choking hazards. They are all interactive, making sounds, which is very educational. You throw all the pieces in and close it up for storage, which is great for cleanup! You can spend as much as $30-$40 or as little as $5 – $10.

7) Games (Preschool and up)

For this I have to refer to Leap Frog again as my favorite. They have taken classics such as connect 4 and Bingo, and made them even more educational, but just as much fun! Through these games they teach letters, shapes, and colors. Then there are the classics, Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders, Memory, and “Hi-Ho-Cherry-O”.

8 ) Groovy Girls ( 2 and up)

These are great alternatives to Barbies. They are plush soft dolls, with clothes, houses, and everything Barbie has to offer. All of their accesories are plush and soft as well, from clothes and shoes, to beds and cars, and yes they have a boy doll too. Each doll is about $10-$15 and they come with an outfit, just like Barbie. If you have not heard of them check them out, I think you will love them!

9) Strawberry Shortcake and Hello Kitty!

Oh yes they are two of the hottest items again. This year they are bringing back the classic Strawberry Shortcake, which blows Strawberry kisses and everything. I love these items because they are classic little girl, and they are practically good for any age.

10) American Girl Dolls

If you have ever looked at these dolls you know they are very expensive. I love the concept, and I love the stories. Concept: To encourage reading as well as teach about the History of America. Each doll is from a different time period and has a story to go with it. Samantha is from 1904, or Felicity who is from the 1700’s. The down side is they are about $100 a piece. So if you can’t quite swing that, go for the Our Generation dolls at Target. At about $20-$25 a doll they are a lot more cost effective. My daughter has one, and loves it!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

I just want to wish everyone a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!! Here in Georgia, we have had drought (If you watch the news at all, I am sure you know that.) Right now, it is raining!! I never thought I would be so thankful for a rainy day! But the sound of thunder and falling rain is a sweet sound in my ear this morning.

There is lots to be Thankful for, just look around you. I am sure, if you are reading this, you have a computer. Which means you have power, you have a roof over your head. So everyone reading this has something to be thankful for, right!!

I hope you will take the time to tell us what you are thankful for, big or small.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

Rehearsing God’s Goodness on My Journey

Angel has been writing about God’s goodness in her life and I decided that this month I wanted to share a bit of how God has so blessed me.

I posted a comment on an article earlier this month about God’s goodness in bringing my 3rd son to our home. I thought maybe I’d write his fabulous story of how he came to be a Krause. Then I got to thinking…….All of my boys are such blessings. Each one of them came to us in a very special God appointed way. I have reaped God’s goodness 3 times over already in my life.

Sometimes we don’t see God’s goodness even when it is right in front of us. Too many times we take for granted our home, our husbands, even just the little things. Like water.

So in doing some thinking about God’s goodness in my life I wanted to make a list of things I am thankful for this year in particular. I encourage you to do the same during this holiday season.

I am thankful and proud that my oldest son, Zach, is having a great school year.

He made straight A’s the first quarter!! This is our first year of university model

school and it has been such a blessing to our family.

I am thankful that my 2nd son, Mitch, is safe, fed and warm. He is doing well in 2nd

grade. (I do wish I could hug him.)

I am thankful that my 3rd son, Gabe, is an easy going baby. I needed one of those.

He is so sweet and always happy. And says “woof” so well.

I am thankful for all of their birth moms. Without them I wouldn’t be called mom

too. These women have truly been the best blessing in my life.

I am thankful for my husband who loves me despite the fact that I am hormonal

mess right now.

I am thankful for my parents. Without them I would rarely go out without my

Kids. Plus they help me deal with life on so many levels. I do have the best

parents!

I am thankful for God’s provision. Even though the housing market across

America seems to be failing, God continues to bless our mortgage company.

I am thankful for my “Carolina Girls” Trip. I so needed it. I am so refreshed.

Also my friends Sheryl and Sharyn, who are a support to me whether near or far.

You both inspire me to be a better mom and friend.

I am thankful for the opportunity to write and express my views and life journeys.

I have so many ways that I can rehearse God’s goodness. In the Bible it tells us to rehearse the wonderful things He has done. I have rehearsed. Have you?

Many blessings on your Thanksgiving.

Sausage Dip

Here is another great and quick appetizer:

Ingredients:

  • 1lb. Mild Sausage
  • 1 can Mild Rotel Tomatoes
  • 1 – 8 oz block of cream cheese

Directions:

  • Brown the sausage, and drain
  • Return the Sausage back to the pan and add Rotel Tomatoes, and Cream Cheese
  • Once the Cream Cheese is fully melted, it is ready to serve.

Serve with Tortilla Chips.

Making known God’s Goodness 3

When you pray for patience God doesn’t give you patience, but rather opportunities to be patient. (Morgan Freeman as God in Evan Almighty)

You ever heard that one before? Yeah, me too. I have been told that if someone in front of you in traffic is going slower than molasses that you should think “This could be an angel protecting me from an accident up ahead”. It helps, sometimes. 🙂

As a part of my series “Making known God’s Goodness” I wanted to share a story that showed me sometimes delays really are God:

Nearly three years ago now I had a beautiful baby girl, Anna Elizabeth. After being sent to the hospital for induction, and then turned around twice in one week, we were finally induced. After nearly 30 hours of induction, and 10 centimeters, she would not drop. So, we had a c-section. After five days in the hospital, I was ready to go home. My doctor was scheduled to come into the hospital room that morning to release me. I had spoken to him on the phone, and the nurses assured me that as with my last child, he would come in early in the morning before his office hours, to release me.

My in-laws, who had been caring for my then 3-1/2 year old, came early to the hospital to help take us home. Several hours passed and the Dr. had not come in to release me yet. With my 3-1/2 year old fidgeting and bouncing, and I hormonal, in pain, and tired, wanting desperately to just get to my house, I was not happy! Finally after about 4 hours, my Dr. rushed in on his lunch break and released me in about 5 minutes. I was ticked! “Get me home, Get me home, Get me home!” I said to my poor husband. he quickly loaded our things and we headed home, finally.

My father-in-law had gone ahead of us and called us to let us know that there was a problem. Crap! Now what? There had been a tornado, and there were trees down in our yard.
When we arrived, 3 of our neighbors had trees in their homes (Two had to move out for 6 months and completely rebuild), our trees laid perfectly across our driveway. Nothing touched the house. We had no power, or anything. As we inspected the damage, we realized had we been released when we were supposed to have been, our car, my in-laws car, and my parents cars would have all been in the driveway at the time of the tornado. What’s more, we found out about a week later, our car insurance payment had not been called in. (cause we were a little busy in the hospital) Had we been home, our car would have been crushed and we would have had no car insurance.

Two weeks later my sister had her daughter, same hospital and same doctor. She was released early in the morning as planned. She told him he was early. He said “I always come in early to release patients.” She said “You didn’t with my sister.” And then she proceeded to tell him how he did not come in until late that day. He was perplexed as to what kept him from coming in early like he usually does.

Sometimes things go according to plan, and sometimes they don’t. Sometimes we get to know why. In this instance we saw that our frustration, and impatience, was due to God’s protection and provision.