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Standing Firm in the Storms of Life
January 7, 2009
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Seems everywhere you look people seem to be in crisis. Possibly a financial crisis is hovering due to the ups and downs of our current economy. Or possibly be a health issue or a painful recurrence of a lingering injury. What about the family, is it in upheaval?
For me, it could be any one of the above, or any combination thereof on any given day.
During this same season two years ago, I was in an out of the doctor’s office with mystery illnesses vexing me. Our finances were a wreck…and the struggles created serious stressors in my relationships with those who mean the most to me.
I remember on one occasion when everything was getting to me, arguing with my husband and telling him that I had just had enough. Enough frustration, enough of the struggles… I was giving up because I was too tired to fight anymore.
Be strong, courageous, and firm; fear not nor be in terror before them, for it is the Lord your God Who goes with you; He will not fail you or forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)
This verse came to me during that time, and God revealed to me that my problem is that I am the one fighting, and that is exactly what defeats me. See, I fight the good fight, but not necessarily the good fight of faith. I believe if I push hard enough and long enough, eventually the opposing side of my struggle will give up.
But that isn’t the way God wants us to face our struggles in life. He wants us stand firm in our struggles, but standing firm courageously in our faith. He wants me to be like a tree standing through the storms of life. The potential of my success in making it through the storm depends on how deeply I have grounded my roots of faith. See with roots of faith, I can face the storm; my tree can bend and sway, and I may even lose a few branches; but at the end of the storm, I’m still standing; and I am ready to grow, ready to flourish, and ready to blossom. (John 15:2)
Losing our branches, bending and swaying in the wind is okay, because it is here that God prunes us and develops us to stand stronger the next time…
It has been two years and this season is reminiscent of two years ago. I have a debilitating health problem lingering over me, complicated with a nuisance of an injury just before Christmas. Our finances were stable enough until one of our cars died without warning just two days before Christmas. Then that seemed to cause a roller coaster effect on everything. Rich threw out his back, we both got the flu…and boy, did the year that was promising new hopes and dreams, seem to be a rerun of disappointments and struggles.
We were tested with the storm of life, and while we bent, we swayed and we even lost a few branches…we made it through this storm. We came through without the fights, without the stressors, and with our sense of humor intact. We came through knowing that God would be faithful to see us through this storm, just as He has seen us through all the other storms of our life. We came through with the promise of new opportunities on the horizon, new visions and dreams coming to fruition.
Are you in crisis? Are you facing a trial or struggle that is bending you and pulling at the very core of your being? Stand firm and strong, know that God is the “same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). He will be with you through every struggle, and will pull you through under the shadow of His wings.
Take a moment and root yourself in His word. Thank Him for walking with you through the storms of life, and never leaving you or forsaking you. Be strong, be courageous, and stand firm.
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Written by Dawn · Filed Under Bible Based Living
Dawn's life is full as a pastor's wife, mother of three, business woman, servant leader at church, and a student. More important than busyness is her goal to be fruitful in the life God has called her to serve. Through her writing, Dawn will take you on a journey through three subjects that have impacted and changed her life. RHYTHMS OF GRACE uses Christian music and Scripture as points of reference, to encourage others to see God in the everyday moments. ONE SCARED CHICK is a journey through the subject of FEAR and God's promises to each of us. LOVE IS...a search for our identities, and the ability to make better choices during the journey. Please comment and share your own personal journeys as we walk through the thread of God's grace...
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Green, New Year’s Resolution
January 3, 2009
As you probably know, Greenpeace has been analyzing the level of green in computers for a long time. And they were not happy with Apple, who apparently had the least amount of green in their computers.
They said, “Apple finally came around to a limited recycling program in the US, but they can do better. We want them to offer a comprehensive take-back and recycling program worldwide. Not just in the US or where Apple is legally compelled to. It’s time for Apple to use clean ingredients in all of its products, and to provide a free take-back program to reuse and recycle its products wherever they are sold.”
On their scale, the computer with the most green attached was Dell, although Dell had “lost points for withdrawing from its commitment to eliminate all PVC plastic and brominated flame retardants (BFRs) by the end of 2009.”
The next greenest computer was HP, but they still need to improve on e-waste, according to Greenpeace. Then came Apple, who was “now reporting product carbon footprint and new iPods are free of both PVC and BFR’s.”
I was disappointed to see that Microsoft, who I have long looked up to, had one of the lowest scores as they “score poorly on recycling and energy.” As leaders in the industry, they need to do better. And apparently, they are now trying as they touted the green concept at their 2008 conference.
But the true moral of the story is this: with consumer activism, Apple finally paid attention and made changes. Greenpeace implemented the help of the buyers of the product and bloggers from all over picked up the story.
It is WE THE CONSUMERS who can have heavy influence on the manufacturers for the sake of our earth. I encourage you to think how YOU can make a green difference in 2009.
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Written by Julie · Filed Under Moms Living Green
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Moms in a Book Club!
January 2, 2009
Yes, I know. You already knew that this column was called Moms in a Book Club. But here’s the thing. Just listening to me talk about books that I’ve read isn’t all that interactive. I want to take it a step further.
That’s why I’m introducing an actual online book club for moms called (what else?) “Moms in a Book Club.”
We’ll be using a new site called BookSprouts.com. Every month, you will be able to nominate and vote on books that you would like to review as a group and then discuss them together. We can rotate group leaders and discussion facilitators, invite authors to join us (how cool would that be?) and enjoy each other’s virtual company on a monthly basis. It’s all done on your own time so you can peruse discussions at your leisure.
This book club is open by invitation only and we’ll be starting with Joyce Meyer’s 100 Ways to Simplify Your Life. Reading begins January 12th, so be sure to get a copy soon. The genres will vary from month to month as the club as a whole will decide what to read.
How do you join? Simple. Send an email to momsinabookclub(at)gmail.com and I will email you an invitation to the club. The site is incredibly user friendly and your profile is easy to set up. Can’t wait to see you in the book club!
Photo credit: http://www.lmxac.org/somervillelib/bookclubresources.htm
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Written by Angela · Filed Under Moms In A Book Club
I am a 28 year old mother of two, married to an Iraqi Freedom Veteran and a lover of all things online. I am an avid blogger, reader, writer, crafter and oh so much more in order to keep up with my two kids, ages 5 and 3. I am a professional internet marketer and I am on constantly on the lookout for new sources of inspiration! I am also the owner of Unexpected Art: A Positive Blog and A Month of Stuff.
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Moms In A Blog needs Guest Bloggers!
January 2, 2009
Guest blogging is perfect for moms who want to write but don’t want a commitment. Guest bloggers send us posts when they feel they have something to contribute and there is never any minimum number of posts required.
Guest Bloggers Benefits:
- Send submissions as you have them ready, no minimum requirements
- Include a bio and links with your submission so that we can give you credit
- Builds links back to your sites, and builds your reputation as the expert in your field
Posting Requirements:
- Submissions must be 300 words minimum (400-500 recommended)
- All submissions must be original content only
- Submissions must be for the topics we are currently looking for, we reserve the right to refuse submissions that we feel are inappropriate.
CURRENT GUEST BLOGGING TOPICS (Updated January 2, 09):
- New Year’s Resolutions
- Goal Setting
- Organization
- Weight Loss/Health
- Pregnancy/Babies
Submit your guest posts along with your bio to crystal@momsinablog.com
Would you like to be notified when new topics are added to our Guest Blogging list? Sign up for our mailing list - Moms In A Mailing List (in the sidebar) and we’ll email you whenever we update the guest blogging list!
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Written by Crystal · Filed Under News & Celebrity
Crystal Unrau is a Canadian mother of three. After many years as a WAHM, Crystal recently returned to work full time for Your Wedding... Imagine Magazine. Crystal is also one of the co-founders of Moms In A Blog.Looking For Affordable Advertising? Join Our Banner Rotation - ONLY 2 SPACES LEFT!
Mapping Out The Journey
December 31, 2008
How has your year been? Have you lost heart? Felt like you didn’t accomplish anything?
This time of year most of us look back at all the should-a, would-a, could-a’s of the past year and determine ourselves to do better, make changes, have a great year. Then another year passes and back we are in this never ending cycle of wanting more and going nowhere. In Ephesians 3:13, we are told:
So I ask you not to lose heart [not to faint or become despondent through fear] at what I am suffering in your behalf. [Rather glory in it] for it is an honor to you. (AMP)
When I first read this verse, I noticed that the Amplified Bible is one of the only translations that actually references fear in the wording of the passage. We are warned not to become despondent through fear. Not to withdraw from our calling. Not to lose heart, get depressed. Looking through other translations, I found this interpretation in the Message:
All this is proceeding along lines planned all along by God and then executed in Christ Jesus. When we trust in him, we’re free to say whatever needs to be said, bold to go wherever we need to go. So don’t let my present trouble on your behalf get you down. Be proud! (vs. 11-13)
I almost feel that I am hearing the voice from Star Trek telling me that I can go boldly where no man has gone before. Do you hear the music in your head?
We should.
We need to stop and reflect back on this past year, and our past seasons, and realize that while we may have made some mistakes, we are on a journey. In that journey there is wonder, amazement, and adventure…problem is instead of getting excited about the things on our horizon, many times we allow our missteps, our misfortunes to sit us on the sidelines of life. Watching others pass by and obtain their calling.
So what do we do when we feel so despondent and withdrawn, defeated by our missteps of life?
If we were planning to travel to an unfamiliar destination, many of us would take the time to key our travel plans into the computer and receive a map with step by step instructions on how to get there. Similarly we are told that God has prepared a roadmap for us, and Christ Jesus has driven along the path.
Putting our faith and trust in the map God has for our lives enables us to embark on the journey set before us.
So as we enter this new year take the time to consider the calling God has set before you. Fill your tank up with your trust in Him, and be prepared to move boldly on the path of your life. Don’t fear any troubles or bumps along the journey, Jesus is the light along the path and He will lead you along the way to your final destination.
May 2009 be the year you embark on the journey without fear moving in God’s grace.
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Written by Dawn · Filed Under Bible Based Living
Dawn's life is full as a pastor's wife, mother of three, business woman, servant leader at church, and a student. More important than busyness is her goal to be fruitful in the life God has called her to serve. Through her writing, Dawn will take you on a journey through three subjects that have impacted and changed her life. RHYTHMS OF GRACE uses Christian music and Scripture as points of reference, to encourage others to see God in the everyday moments. ONE SCARED CHICK is a journey through the subject of FEAR and God's promises to each of us. LOVE IS...a search for our identities, and the ability to make better choices during the journey. Please comment and share your own personal journeys as we walk through the thread of God's grace...Looking For Affordable Advertising? Join Our Banner Rotation - ONLY 2 SPACES LEFT!
My New Year’s Resolutions as a Book Blogger
December 31, 2008
Every year near the end of December, I sit down and reflect on what’s happened in the past twelve months and what I would like to accomplish in the upcoming twelve. As you can imagine, both lists tend to be pretty long. One of the best things that happened this year was the fact that I was named Moms in a Blog’s Book Blogger! I love telling you about book news, great books I’ve read, and books you should probably avoid.
But now that 2009 is looming, I’m on to big plans and bigger ideas. Since I thought you might want to learn more, I’ve listed them here for you to peruse and give me feedback on:
1. Branch out in different genres.
2. Have at least one giveaway every month.
3. Start an online book club for readers of MomsinaBlog.com who want to join.
4. Meet more authors.
5. Share more news and exciting notes about the book world.
So, what do you think? I’d love some feedback because while I write this column as a creative expression of myself, I really write this for you. What do you want to see more or less of? What kinds of things would you like me to review? What makes you so excited to go get a book from the store and chill on the couch reading for days until you’re done? Tell me and I’ll keep it in mind as I write each week!
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Written by Angela · Filed Under Moms In A Book Club
I am a 28 year old mother of two, married to an Iraqi Freedom Veteran and a lover of all things online. I am an avid blogger, reader, writer, crafter and oh so much more in order to keep up with my two kids, ages 5 and 3. I am a professional internet marketer and I am on constantly on the lookout for new sources of inspiration! I am also the owner of Unexpected Art: A Positive Blog and A Month of Stuff.Looking For Affordable Advertising? Join Our Banner Rotation - ONLY 2 SPACES LEFT!
I’ll Give You Peace
December 29, 2008
Last year, in a moment of desperation, I must admit that I fell into what I felt was divine inspiration and joined the mass legions of goal setters during the New Year. I took my time and prayed about my list, writing out specific short and long-term goals for 2008. I found a verse that spoke to my heart, and committed myself to memorizing it for the year. Today, just three days shy of the new year, I find myself wondering where I put the list, not remembering what verse I was going to stand on for the year, and realizing that I only completed maybe one, two if best goals that I had set for myself.
In my mind, goal setting is all about my expectations for me. This year, I find myself in a quandary of emotion, frustrated with myself and everyone around me…because despite all the people that may have failed me in life, this time I failed myself.
In the midst of the tears, emotion, and prayer; I have been seeking answers. This is only adding to my frustration, as I keep my ears opened for that all inspiring word, the point of reference, the goals I should set and strive for…I have been deluded with solutions, or suggestions, and have confused myself even more.
Today, I believe I got a clear answer…for me. See my issue is that I am always busy, running a million miles a minute in a thousand different directions. I am a flurry of thoughts, emotions, and tasks. The problem? I am continually getting things done, but never accomplishing anything…at least not anything of my own.
I am realizing that my busyness, is not leading to my fruitfulness…and that is the core point of my frustration.
Confession time. The reason I am so busy, is that I allow my emotions to dictate the priority of things I do.
New confession. I often times put the needs (or tasks) of others above my own needs because I don’t want them to be upset with me, or to think badly of me in anyway.
Truth…I know that both of these confessions are self-imposed and that I am allowing myself to feel these things and perceive these things, even though they are not necessarily true.
So, how do I fix it? How do I stop busying myself with the priorities of others, and invest in fruit bearing activity?
Many times, I think in music. A song will sit on me, and eventually I will realize that God has been speaking a lesson to me all along. A few months ago, a song that I loved from years ago came back into my life. I had completely forgotten about it and was playing on a music service one day and saw it, and a spark went off. As I listened to the song, I cried…and it has been a prayer or meditation that has been hovering over me ever since. Only today do I realize exactly what God has been trying to tell me…
Sometimes when you’re in the valleys
All of your burdens you carry alone
Oh, but I know, I know when you need Me
Call I’ll be there
Longing to prove how much I care
Peace, I’ll give you peace
When the wind blows on
Peace, whenever you call Me
I’ll give you peace
When the wind blows on
Heartaches, whenever your heart aches
I want to be there
To help see you through
When you’re weary
You know you can find all the strength that you need
Find your rest and your hope in Me
No matter how long the night may last,
I’ll keep you safe ’til the storm is past
Oh, I’ll give you
Peace, sweet peace
When the wind blows on
Peace, whenever you call Me
I’ll give you peace
When the wind blows on
I’ll give you peace when the wind starts blowing
Peace, I’ll give you peace
The wind has been blowing on my life this past year like a torrential rainstorm. My attempts to take care of everything myself have left me tired, weary, lonely, heartbroken, restless, and frustrated.
But in the midst of it all, I forgot about God’s peace. It is His peace that will calm the storms around me, just as He calmed the storm in the midst of the night with the disciples (Mark 4:39). More importantly it is His peace that He leaves with us, and gives to us; not as the world gives. His peace that keeps our hearts from being troubled and afraid (John 14:27).
It is His peace that I have set aside. My emotions lead me to negativity and discord. They lead me down the path of frustration and pain. From that place, all I can do is be busy, and grow weary.
If I grab hold of His peace first, and look for fruitfulness instead of busyness…then I will be energized, renewing my strength, mounting on the wings of eagles…not growing weary, or tired (Isaiah 40:31), despite what storms may be raging all around.
So as I enter this New Year, I will have one goal, one resolution…to seek peace this year, looking for fruitfulness instead of busyness.
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Written by Dawn · Filed Under Bible Based Living
Dawn's life is full as a pastor's wife, mother of three, business woman, servant leader at church, and a student. More important than busyness is her goal to be fruitful in the life God has called her to serve. Through her writing, Dawn will take you on a journey through three subjects that have impacted and changed her life. RHYTHMS OF GRACE uses Christian music and Scripture as points of reference, to encourage others to see God in the everyday moments. ONE SCARED CHICK is a journey through the subject of FEAR and God's promises to each of us. LOVE IS...a search for our identities, and the ability to make better choices during the journey. Please comment and share your own personal journeys as we walk through the thread of God's grace...Looking For Affordable Advertising? Join Our Banner Rotation - ONLY 2 SPACES LEFT!
The Green in Bamboo
December 26, 2008
Jane Bianchi, the Associate Health Editor of Family Circle, recently highlighted a way to get rid of airborne toxins released by certain paints, carpets and plastics like shower curtains.
According to Dr Neil Schachter of New York City’s Mount Sinai Medical Center and a spokesperson for the American Lung Association, there is a simple answer to that problem. It is: Bamboo.
In fact, any non-flowering green plant will help to filter the air, says Bianchi. It can purify the air in a 10×10 room in 24 hours time.
How come I am never surprised when an answer for our chemicals lies in our earth? Perhaps the earth is struggling to save us with the resources that it has available. Shall we help it along?
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Written by Julie · Filed Under Moms Living Green
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Top Books for New Year’s Resolutions
December 26, 2008
Every year right after Christmas, my brain immediately starts looking toward the New Year. I’m not one for Resolutions that start on January 1. But I do like setting goals for myself for the upcoming year. Most people feel like the new year is a new beginning, a chance to look ahead and plan for something great to happen.
It should come as absolutely no surprise that when I want to learn something new, investigate a new topic, or just plain change something in my life, the first thing I look for is a book. I have no doubt that many other people are the same way. Here are my predictions for the books that will be bought the most as New Year’s Resolutions and goals for 2009 are made.
1. Weight Loss Books - so many of us want to be healthier, lose weight, and look fantastic. Many people opt to buy a book about healthy food and habits rather than sign up for a program that requires monthly payments. Books about diets like the Dr. Atkins’ Diet Revolution
2. Organization Books - I am not a perfectly organized person but I do like things being put away and knowing where my stuff is. Books on how to organize
3. Financial Books -In tough economic times, people are always looking for ways to make the most of the money they have. So financial books are going to big in the first few months of 2009 as budgets are always a hot topic for resolutions and goals.
4. Address Books -”Keep in touch with friends and family more” is another resolution that is consistently in the top 10 every January. In order to do that, people will need to update or start an address book.
5. Business Books -Everyone who owns a business or dreams of owning one will want to glean as much information as possible in order to be a success.This can include books on how to run a business, how to network more effectively, tips on improving your leadership or negotiation skills, and how to market a business more effectively.
6. Hobby / Craft Books -Learning something new is another popular resolution / goal. Perhaps people have the dream of restoring a vintage car or learning how to knit. Any book that allows you to immerse yourself in a new past time will definitely grab your attention.
7. Dummies Books -The Dummies series
8. Marriage Help Books - No marriage is perfect and many people turn to books to help them get past the rough spots. Books about communication, sex, understanding your partner, and marriage teamwork will be going to the cashier quite a bit this year.
9. Religious / Spirituality Books -I’m a big fan of books that help with my spiritual life. In crazy times, an inner peace is what I crave the most. Authors like Joyce Meyers
10. Kid Books - Spending more time with family is important, especially to parents. But the question becomes, once we’re all in the same room, what do we do? Kids’ story books, books with craft ideas for kids, and family activities books will be picked up en masse as families begin to look for fun things to do together. This also includes books like “Fun Things to do With Kids in Cleveland” and other destination-based books.
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Written by Angela · Filed Under Moms In A Book Club
I am a 28 year old mother of two, married to an Iraqi Freedom Veteran and a lover of all things online. I am an avid blogger, reader, writer, crafter and oh so much more in order to keep up with my two kids, ages 5 and 3. I am a professional internet marketer and I am on constantly on the lookout for new sources of inspiration! I am also the owner of Unexpected Art: A Positive Blog and A Month of Stuff.Looking For Affordable Advertising? Join Our Banner Rotation - ONLY 2 SPACES LEFT!
Top 5 Christmas Books
December 25, 2008
As a kid, I can remember spending hours in book stores the weeks leading up to December 25th. I was on the hunt for the perfect gift for my dad. As a book lover, I grew up literally surrounded with books that my dad owned. They lined walls, stacked under desks, and occupied boxes in the attic. Every Christmas, I hunted for books to give my dad for Christmas. My dad always looked for ways to incorporate books into our holiday. That’s why, in my head, I always associate Christmas with books.
Speaking of books, here are my top 5 books that put me in the Christmas mood:
1. A Christmas Carol
3. How The Grinch Stole Christmas
There’s always new books that I enjoy as well. Like the Cole Family Christmas
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Written by Angela · Filed Under Moms In A Book Club
I am a 28 year old mother of two, married to an Iraqi Freedom Veteran and a lover of all things online. I am an avid blogger, reader, writer, crafter and oh so much more in order to keep up with my two kids, ages 5 and 3. I am a professional internet marketer and I am on constantly on the lookout for new sources of inspiration! I am also the owner of Unexpected Art: A Positive Blog and A Month of Stuff.Looking For Affordable Advertising? Join Our Banner Rotation - ONLY 2 SPACES LEFT!
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