Bryan came home yesterday and put things into perspective for me. He talked about how during this time we are running around as usual and up to our daily routines. We are having a "normal" day but what is God wondering at this moment? Is he wondering why so many of us forget to acknowledge the significance of this time? This is a time that the Savior bore all of our sins and made the slate clean through his death on the cross. But He rose again to bring us life and life more abundantly. What a precious love story of a father who loves His children enough to send his only son to die for us. That is so humbling and so amazing that I can't even put it into words. It makes me remember what all God has brought me through, and that life is valuable and truly worth living. I don't always listen to Him and I find myself taking turns I should not have but He always brings me back and walks with me. I know He has a plan for my life.
I was born to teenage parents who probably were nervous about what their life would be like with a baby that they weren't mentally and emotionally ready for. Nevertheless, they raised me the best they could and never left me. I can honestly say that I wouldn't want any other parents. Though things didn't work out between them they always came together for my sake and always put me first. Even when I was in the womb, God already knew my name and knew right where to place me. There is a divine plan.
I had a grandmother who made me feel like I was the most special person on earth. I don't remember her ever really getting on to me except the time I stole some charms out of a Wiener's store and she made me go to the manager and turn them back in. She took me to church and planted seeds in my life. Fortunately, she got to see the harvest from those seeds she planted before she died knowing I am serving the Lord today. I have two grandmothers in heaven. Their passing was an amazing experience of reassurance in knowing that there is a place prepared for us and that one sweet day we will get to see it.
Working at Sears, I was able to meet the most special man in my life. I wanted to go off to school and become a news anchor. I like to say that when I married a Rhodes that it ruined my really cool last name made for TV. I no longer have that roll-off-the tongue last name like Elma Barrera anymore. I decided to stay local for school. Even though I didn't finish my great big plan, God gave me something amazing. I was at the right place at the right time and He gave me Bryan. We were both young and wanted the same things in life. But there was so much we did not know about God. But we had a hunger for more and a desire to seek His kingdom. The great thing is that we got to do it together and have been on the path ever since. I have gotten to see God take an extraordinary man and make him the most loving father and dedicated husband ever. God is good.
I have had my share of sickness with lupus flares and hospital visits over the years. It was during those times that I got to know God as healer. He got me out of bed when I wanted to lay there and cry. He gave my body strength to keep walking when every joint ached. I remember waking up one morning with my fingers all crooked and not even able to hold my coffee cup. He held me during those times and fought the battle for me when I was too weak to do it on my own. He touched my heart when I had bells palsy. He healed me on the inside when the outside looked like a mess. "He is my refuge and strength, ever present help in times of trouble." Psalm 46:1
Though I had some scares in my health I was able to deliver two crazy, wonderful boys. They have made me see so many God moments in watching them grow and raising them. I am able to see the parent/child relationship more clearly now that I have my own. Plus I had to learn to let go of them and give them to God confidently knowing that He loves them even more than I do. I have never prayed as hard as I do now that I am a mother. Those boys make me fight hell for them with prayers of power and authority. They are mine and I won't let the evils of this world have them. More importantly, I know they belong to God. That alone gives me comfort. I also get to watch Bryan with them and see just how a father loves his children. I am thankful for our Heavenly Father.
I give all these examples to remind myself of just what God has done for me in my life. As we celebrate this weekend, I am truly taken back. I am humbled that the God I know as creator, father and healer would also be my redeemer. Jesus' sacrifice was ordered and fulfilled and because of it we receive new life. We receive mercy and grace. Heaven knows I need all of those things. Each day my faith and character is challenged. Sometimes I screw it all up and I fall down. But I am always looking to the light which leads me back to where I belong. I look to the cross where my life was made new and I look to Jesus for my hope and salvation.
I pray that each one of you enjoys your families this weekend. I know you will all look great in your new Easter outfits and that the Easter bunny will bring your kids lots of goodies. By the way, since I have two boys I had to trade in baskets this year for academy bags. But take a moment to remember the significance of this time. If you are down right now, I pray that you know that there is a Healer and a Redeemer who lives and wants a relationship with you. It is not about religion, it is about love. This is the greatest love story of all. (Whitney Houston just came to mind) If you know me well, then you know I have a lot of imperfections and yet He still loves me. He didn't sacrifice himself just for me. He sacrificed for everyone! He loves you endlessly. Jesus lives and loves. Put your hope in Him and your future in His hands.
Happy Easter Everyone!
Hope
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Be Intentional
March is always a special but oh so crazy month at the Rhodes house. Spring is definitely in the air and our allergies are all flared up. Basketball is still going on for the all star season. Both boys have birthdays this month. Bo is on the 22nd and Christian is on the 23rd. Yes, they are one day apart with 4 years in between. I am always reminded close to their birthdays of how blessed I am to have those two special boys in my life. Even though it is a hectic month, I still love feeling the warmth of the March sun and seeing the plants starting to bloom. I love the smell of freshly cut grass and I like seeing people starting to come outside in the neighborhood and out of their winter slumbers. What can I say? I am a sunshine girl!
Though Spring makes me happy and I sound all fuzzy and warm, I can say that I have been a little overwhelmed. Do you ever feel like you are being pulled in all different directions, like there is not enough time in the day? Do you ever feel like you just can't get enough rest? Even when you go to sleep, you feel like your mind is racing. Do you ever feel like you just can't keep up? Yes I know the scripture that says to not be anxious about anything but in to be in prayer and petition. But I don't always follow it. I feel all of these crazy emotions at times and then I go through the different stages of being mad, being sad, feeling sorry for myself, being resentful of everything that demands my time. The good thing is that after I have my day of pouting as a toddler would and singing poor pitiful me, the Lord puts me in check. Man, He is good! Something will hit me like a baseball to the shin and I will pick myself up, wipe my eyes, put on my praise music and make a change. The change is not always instant but it is intentional.
One of my top prayers all of my life has been that I want to encourage people. I want to speak words that build up people and bring life to them. I fail so often to do this. I was thinking today about how many times I say I will pray for someone and I will but then I forget to check up on them. Or I tell myself that I need to do the little things that make people smile, like send a note or buy a small gift. I will write it down on a sticky note and then it ends up at the bottom of my purse. I also love to write cards and notes to people. Sadly, with all of the new technology I think hand writing a note has become a thing of the past. I keep notes at my desk at work so that I will remember to write someone a note as the Lord lays them on my heart. I noticed that those cards have sat there for a few weeks and I couldn't bring myself to write one. I told myself I was going to intentionally write one today for someone who had done something that touched my heart recently. I wrote that card and felt so much better afterwards. Let's be honest, has any one of us ever felt miserable after doing something nice for someone?
As Christians, we all know that we reap what we sow. If you want friendship you sow seeds of friendship. If you need encouragement, you sow seeds of encouragement. These things should come from the heart and should seem effortless. But sometimes when life gets in the way and the things of the world hold us back, we must be intentional. It is just like working out. Some days you just want to lay on the couch and eat a bag of chips or cookies or a gallon of ice cream. But you make yourself get your cool looking tennis shoes on and go to the track anyway. After a while, that workout becomes part of your weekly routine. If you stay committed and dedicated you will eventually see good results. Doing the right thing is not always easy especially when it involves people and relationships. Sometimes you just want to chunk the deuce at the world and then go wallow up in some corner by yourself. But you have to intentionally get up, walk in faith and see the world with Jesus' eyes and feel its heartbeat with hands of compassion and love.
I know there are days that I am not easy to get along with. Most days I am smiling but there are those days where that smile has to be painted on in order for it to stick. I see the glass as half full but some days I wish that glass was full of Jose Cuervo. Not really, because tequila and I have never been friends. There are days when I am self-centered and I am not showing the love of Christ. But I know that I am intentionally working on those areas and I will continue to give myself to the only One who can change me from the inside out. Today, I encourage you to be a blessing to someone even when you feel like you have nothing left to give them. Be a light in world full of darkness. You never know who you will unintentionally touch when you intentionally seek to be like the One who created you.
Blessings to you all!
Hope
Though Spring makes me happy and I sound all fuzzy and warm, I can say that I have been a little overwhelmed. Do you ever feel like you are being pulled in all different directions, like there is not enough time in the day? Do you ever feel like you just can't get enough rest? Even when you go to sleep, you feel like your mind is racing. Do you ever feel like you just can't keep up? Yes I know the scripture that says to not be anxious about anything but in to be in prayer and petition. But I don't always follow it. I feel all of these crazy emotions at times and then I go through the different stages of being mad, being sad, feeling sorry for myself, being resentful of everything that demands my time. The good thing is that after I have my day of pouting as a toddler would and singing poor pitiful me, the Lord puts me in check. Man, He is good! Something will hit me like a baseball to the shin and I will pick myself up, wipe my eyes, put on my praise music and make a change. The change is not always instant but it is intentional.
One of my top prayers all of my life has been that I want to encourage people. I want to speak words that build up people and bring life to them. I fail so often to do this. I was thinking today about how many times I say I will pray for someone and I will but then I forget to check up on them. Or I tell myself that I need to do the little things that make people smile, like send a note or buy a small gift. I will write it down on a sticky note and then it ends up at the bottom of my purse. I also love to write cards and notes to people. Sadly, with all of the new technology I think hand writing a note has become a thing of the past. I keep notes at my desk at work so that I will remember to write someone a note as the Lord lays them on my heart. I noticed that those cards have sat there for a few weeks and I couldn't bring myself to write one. I told myself I was going to intentionally write one today for someone who had done something that touched my heart recently. I wrote that card and felt so much better afterwards. Let's be honest, has any one of us ever felt miserable after doing something nice for someone?
As Christians, we all know that we reap what we sow. If you want friendship you sow seeds of friendship. If you need encouragement, you sow seeds of encouragement. These things should come from the heart and should seem effortless. But sometimes when life gets in the way and the things of the world hold us back, we must be intentional. It is just like working out. Some days you just want to lay on the couch and eat a bag of chips or cookies or a gallon of ice cream. But you make yourself get your cool looking tennis shoes on and go to the track anyway. After a while, that workout becomes part of your weekly routine. If you stay committed and dedicated you will eventually see good results. Doing the right thing is not always easy especially when it involves people and relationships. Sometimes you just want to chunk the deuce at the world and then go wallow up in some corner by yourself. But you have to intentionally get up, walk in faith and see the world with Jesus' eyes and feel its heartbeat with hands of compassion and love.
I know there are days that I am not easy to get along with. Most days I am smiling but there are those days where that smile has to be painted on in order for it to stick. I see the glass as half full but some days I wish that glass was full of Jose Cuervo. Not really, because tequila and I have never been friends. There are days when I am self-centered and I am not showing the love of Christ. But I know that I am intentionally working on those areas and I will continue to give myself to the only One who can change me from the inside out. Today, I encourage you to be a blessing to someone even when you feel like you have nothing left to give them. Be a light in world full of darkness. You never know who you will unintentionally touch when you intentionally seek to be like the One who created you.
Blessings to you all!
Hope
Sunday, February 24, 2013
It just takes one moment!
I really love how the Lord speaks to me through my kids. Being a mom has helped me get a glimpse of just how the Father loves us. Even though I can't even begin to imagine that His love for me is even greater than the love I have for my boys, I know that it is true.
This has been a long, exhausting and emotional week. We finished regular season basketball. We have played many sports along the years and we have learned something each year. This season made for some great moments as we watched kids who have played since they were in Peewees play their last Little Dribblers games before entering Jr. High. The last game was a bit of a tear jerker for Bryan realizing that it would be the last time he coached Christian in any sport. Even though we still have Bo, something just hit hard knowing that Christian is getting older and moving on to new adventures.
I can talk about a lot of outstanding moments this season such as when Christian got the ball stolen from him by one of our former players who is half the size of Christian. Even I had to give "Smiley" props for taking that ball with confidence. I also loved watching Christian go against one of his really good friends and seeing the respect they had for each other on the court. I liked getting the hug yesterday from one of our parents who said thank you for being a part of their lives the past two seasons. I smiled when we went to eat with Bo at school and one of our players told his mom that he wanted to sit by Coach Bryan. It was heart warming to see a kid who is a bit shy talk Coach Bryan's ear off at a game because they had developed a close relationship with him. I was thankful for one of my fellow basketball moms coming to help me clean my son's bloody nose all while playing her team.
But there was a moment yesterday that took my breath away. And I relived it again this morning when Christian asked me a question. As we were getting our behinds handed to us in yesterday's championship game, I watched my puffy-eyed son lay his heart out on the court. It wasn't his best game but it was all he had at that moment. Seeing the defeat in his eyes and us being down by 20, Bryan pulled him off the court in the last minute of the game. In that moment, I heard a crowd cheer for my son as he went to the bench and put his head in his lap and was brought to tears. This morning Christian asked me if the crowd cheered because they were glad his team was going to lose. My heart sank as I explained to him that in no way were they cheering for that reason. I said "They were clapping for you because they believe in you." I realized in that moment that I didn't need to say anything about him, he spoke for himself.
I saw God's love fill a room and fill my heart. How many times do we want to win that trophy or have that moment of glory? And sometimes it is in the times of defeat that we shine the most. God doesn't love us based on our performance, He loves us because we were created in His image. We are His children. We are the "apple of His eye." Sometimes we don't understand why things happen the way that they do. We don't understand why we weren't 1st or why we have to deal with sickness or why we aren't in a certain place we want to be. But God knows where we are at and He is the answer to all things. He claps when no one else seems to. He smiles when you think everyone else is frowning. In those moments when you think every person and every circumstance is against you, just look up and accept the love that the Father has for you.
I don't know if Christian will really grasp what that moment meant. But that moment was bigger than a trophy. (Don't tell Bryan I said that because he probably still wants the trophy) God lifts us up even when we feel we are at our lowest point. So thankful I have a Heavenly Father who I can always look up to! I pray that today in whatever you are going through that you know that the Father loves you and cares for you. He hears every prayer and He is present in every moment of your life. Seek Him first always. He will show you things that will knock your socks off and He will lift you higher than you could ever go on your own.
Wishing you many blessings!
James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
This has been a long, exhausting and emotional week. We finished regular season basketball. We have played many sports along the years and we have learned something each year. This season made for some great moments as we watched kids who have played since they were in Peewees play their last Little Dribblers games before entering Jr. High. The last game was a bit of a tear jerker for Bryan realizing that it would be the last time he coached Christian in any sport. Even though we still have Bo, something just hit hard knowing that Christian is getting older and moving on to new adventures.
I can talk about a lot of outstanding moments this season such as when Christian got the ball stolen from him by one of our former players who is half the size of Christian. Even I had to give "Smiley" props for taking that ball with confidence. I also loved watching Christian go against one of his really good friends and seeing the respect they had for each other on the court. I liked getting the hug yesterday from one of our parents who said thank you for being a part of their lives the past two seasons. I smiled when we went to eat with Bo at school and one of our players told his mom that he wanted to sit by Coach Bryan. It was heart warming to see a kid who is a bit shy talk Coach Bryan's ear off at a game because they had developed a close relationship with him. I was thankful for one of my fellow basketball moms coming to help me clean my son's bloody nose all while playing her team.
But there was a moment yesterday that took my breath away. And I relived it again this morning when Christian asked me a question. As we were getting our behinds handed to us in yesterday's championship game, I watched my puffy-eyed son lay his heart out on the court. It wasn't his best game but it was all he had at that moment. Seeing the defeat in his eyes and us being down by 20, Bryan pulled him off the court in the last minute of the game. In that moment, I heard a crowd cheer for my son as he went to the bench and put his head in his lap and was brought to tears. This morning Christian asked me if the crowd cheered because they were glad his team was going to lose. My heart sank as I explained to him that in no way were they cheering for that reason. I said "They were clapping for you because they believe in you." I realized in that moment that I didn't need to say anything about him, he spoke for himself.
I saw God's love fill a room and fill my heart. How many times do we want to win that trophy or have that moment of glory? And sometimes it is in the times of defeat that we shine the most. God doesn't love us based on our performance, He loves us because we were created in His image. We are His children. We are the "apple of His eye." Sometimes we don't understand why things happen the way that they do. We don't understand why we weren't 1st or why we have to deal with sickness or why we aren't in a certain place we want to be. But God knows where we are at and He is the answer to all things. He claps when no one else seems to. He smiles when you think everyone else is frowning. In those moments when you think every person and every circumstance is against you, just look up and accept the love that the Father has for you.
I don't know if Christian will really grasp what that moment meant. But that moment was bigger than a trophy. (Don't tell Bryan I said that because he probably still wants the trophy) God lifts us up even when we feel we are at our lowest point. So thankful I have a Heavenly Father who I can always look up to! I pray that today in whatever you are going through that you know that the Father loves you and cares for you. He hears every prayer and He is present in every moment of your life. Seek Him first always. He will show you things that will knock your socks off and He will lift you higher than you could ever go on your own.
Wishing you many blessings!
James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Thank You
Thank you. These are two simple words in the English language but they can mean so much and are not used enough in my opinion. This goes back to simple manners 101. As a child I was taught to say please and thank you. I remember when my kids were little I was always reminding them to say thank you when someone gave them a piece of candy. I also remember refusing to let them have one when they were in one of their defiant moods and wouldn't say it. I find it very disheartening that we don't say thank you enough. I teach my boys to open doors for people at restaurants. And though I teach them to never expect a thank you, I see how many people walk passed them and never acknowledge them. We send our kids to school everyday and there are teachers there that teach them and care for them all day and though they are paid to do it don't get compensated for the extra stuff they do for them. I have had teachers come to watch my kids play and they will never know how much that meant to me. I am pretty sure I said thank you but I don't know if I did it enough.
I get my kids involved in sports and other extra curricular activities and I forget that it takes a lot of people to run such organizations. There are those who believe that some people do those sorts of things for the recognition. But I can tell you from experience, it would be easier to pick something else to do for recognition because running leagues and events is way too complicated if you are in it just looking for praise. Most people will come and go and never say they appreciate you but you do it anyway. Sow thankfulness and you will reap it as well. As a small business owner, I know that it is important to tell your employees and customers thank you. We could not make it if it were not for them. Do employers tell their employees enough how thankful they are for them? In the same respect, do you tell your employer how thankful you are to work where you work and how thankful you are to have a job?
There are men and women who serve and fight for our freedom each and every day. There are law enforcement officers and emergency personnel who are making sure we are safe. I know I don't tell them enough how much I am grateful for their service and what they do for my family and community. More than anyone, we probably take our own families for granted. We see them usually every day and become complacent in our relationships with them. I have a very helpful husband who works hard and takes care of me. He needs to hear me say thank you more often than I probably do. Plus my kids need to see that exemplified through our marriage. My two boys need to hear how thankful I am that the Lord gave them to me and how proud I am to be their mother. As parents, we can't say that enough.
Why have we let those two words slip by so easily? Let them be part of your daily language. The bible encourages us to be thankful. You will be amazed at how much you will personally benefit from telling others thank you. Sometimes it is the smallest things that have a huge impact on you but you need to take it a step further and say thank you to the person who made it all happen.
I recently had my 35th birthday and I was very touched by some special friends of mine. I got a card from my coworkers saying the sweetest things that made me tear up. A good friend of mine made me a running shirt that displayed everything that is important to me in my life. There was so much thought that went into that shirt. Another friend of mine put a personal play list together of every song I sing around the office and ones I like to dance to. I feel so humbled by their thoughtfulness!
As cheesy as you may all think this is, I want to take time to write down a few things that I am thankful for. I am thankful that I am saved and that God loves me and has a plan for me. I am thankful for my amazing parents who think I am all that even when I am not. I am thankful for friends who make me laugh, who love my kids, who tell me when I have pepper in my teeth, who defend me even when I am being big baby. I am thankful for a job that is secure and one that has brought some special people into my life. I am thankful for good health. Despite being labeled as a lupus patient, I am labeled a child of the Most High! I am thankful for the people who do the jobs no one else wants to do. I am thankful for teachers, pastors, police officers, the military, construction workers,coaches, and child care givers. I am thankful for a husband who tells me I am beautiful every day. I am thankful for two boys who remind me that body noises are still funny and who remind me to have child-like faith. I am just thankful. Boy I feel like it should be Thanksgiving!
I know there is not much depth to this post but this is what is on my heart. I just want to remind everyone that being thankful can do your heart so good. It will invade your spirit in a way that just makes you smile. We can only complain so much. There is much more to be thankful for. Do not let two little words escape your vocabulary. Those two little words can make the biggest difference. Teach those words to your kids and shout them from the roof tops.
God Bless & THANK YOU for reading this post!
Hope
Psalm 107:1"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." (NIV)
I get my kids involved in sports and other extra curricular activities and I forget that it takes a lot of people to run such organizations. There are those who believe that some people do those sorts of things for the recognition. But I can tell you from experience, it would be easier to pick something else to do for recognition because running leagues and events is way too complicated if you are in it just looking for praise. Most people will come and go and never say they appreciate you but you do it anyway. Sow thankfulness and you will reap it as well. As a small business owner, I know that it is important to tell your employees and customers thank you. We could not make it if it were not for them. Do employers tell their employees enough how thankful they are for them? In the same respect, do you tell your employer how thankful you are to work where you work and how thankful you are to have a job?
There are men and women who serve and fight for our freedom each and every day. There are law enforcement officers and emergency personnel who are making sure we are safe. I know I don't tell them enough how much I am grateful for their service and what they do for my family and community. More than anyone, we probably take our own families for granted. We see them usually every day and become complacent in our relationships with them. I have a very helpful husband who works hard and takes care of me. He needs to hear me say thank you more often than I probably do. Plus my kids need to see that exemplified through our marriage. My two boys need to hear how thankful I am that the Lord gave them to me and how proud I am to be their mother. As parents, we can't say that enough.
Why have we let those two words slip by so easily? Let them be part of your daily language. The bible encourages us to be thankful. You will be amazed at how much you will personally benefit from telling others thank you. Sometimes it is the smallest things that have a huge impact on you but you need to take it a step further and say thank you to the person who made it all happen.
I recently had my 35th birthday and I was very touched by some special friends of mine. I got a card from my coworkers saying the sweetest things that made me tear up. A good friend of mine made me a running shirt that displayed everything that is important to me in my life. There was so much thought that went into that shirt. Another friend of mine put a personal play list together of every song I sing around the office and ones I like to dance to. I feel so humbled by their thoughtfulness!
As cheesy as you may all think this is, I want to take time to write down a few things that I am thankful for. I am thankful that I am saved and that God loves me and has a plan for me. I am thankful for my amazing parents who think I am all that even when I am not. I am thankful for friends who make me laugh, who love my kids, who tell me when I have pepper in my teeth, who defend me even when I am being big baby. I am thankful for a job that is secure and one that has brought some special people into my life. I am thankful for good health. Despite being labeled as a lupus patient, I am labeled a child of the Most High! I am thankful for the people who do the jobs no one else wants to do. I am thankful for teachers, pastors, police officers, the military, construction workers,coaches, and child care givers. I am thankful for a husband who tells me I am beautiful every day. I am thankful for two boys who remind me that body noises are still funny and who remind me to have child-like faith. I am just thankful. Boy I feel like it should be Thanksgiving!
I know there is not much depth to this post but this is what is on my heart. I just want to remind everyone that being thankful can do your heart so good. It will invade your spirit in a way that just makes you smile. We can only complain so much. There is much more to be thankful for. Do not let two little words escape your vocabulary. Those two little words can make the biggest difference. Teach those words to your kids and shout them from the roof tops.
God Bless & THANK YOU for reading this post!
Hope
Psalm 107:1"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." (NIV)
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Goodbye 2012, Hello 2013!
I love this time of year! I love Christmas and everything that comes with it. I also love the new year beginning to approach. It is always a time to reflect on the past year and wait with anticipation as to what the upcoming months will bring. I am not one for resolutions but I do like to clear my mind and set some goals. I can't say that I don't look back because I do like to look back and see how much God has done for me. I also like to see where I have been and see if there are things that I need to change or work on in my life. I can say that 2012 has been a year full of ups and downs but it has been a special year of my life and has taught me some life lessons.
First of all, I have seen that forgiveness is not as easy to come by as some may think. And sometimes saying your sorry does not make the situation better. But saying your sorry is still the right thing to do in order for you to move on even if you can't control how the other person reacts or feels. And there may still be an empty part in you that longs for that person to be in your life. Some situations you have to give to the Lord and trust in Him. I know to never lose hope because God can work miracles and soften hearts.
Secondly, I have realized that I love my kids at the age they are now. Though I miss them sleeping on my chest at times, I love the fact that they can do things on their own. I so enjoy watching them do what they do and I love watching every game. I have the sore back from sitting on stands and bleachers to prove it. I love seeing their individual personalities emerge and I am amazed at how much they reflect who Bryan and I are. Even though Christian (my oldest) and I are one in the same and butt heads at times, he is my tender-hearted kid. He is the one I know will do great things and in whom I know there are seeds planted that will grow and do wondrous things for God's kingdom. He is a thinker and an observer and stands alone and stands out. Bo is Bryan made all over. After Bo does something sweet, I always go to Bryan and tell him how much I love him because I see Bryan in Bo's brown eyes and big heart. He is my child who can charm the stars with his smile and yes that concerns me a little when it comes to girls. He is compassionate and loves to give. He has the cutest mannerisms and makes this house complete. I feel so blessed that God chose me to be their mother.
I have also realized that God's followers are not limited to the church walls. I don't get in religious debates often because they rarely ever end on a good note. I believe God's word and I do believe in going to church so please don't misunderstand me. But I have seen God's love in some amazing people who don't attend church. I have seen that people truly want to know that you are a person who loves the Lord but doesn't shove it in their face with an agenda behind it. I have some conservative views and I am entitled to those views but I also know that I am not perfect. I know that the minute I were to consider myself high and mighty I would be knocked off that high horse in a pile of mud. I can disagree with you and you can disagree with me but I love you because that is what a Christian does. I am intrigued by our differences and I am thankful for our similarities. I also warn you, that if you ask me to pray for you, I will turn into the Jesus freak that I am. I believe in the power of prayer. I know where I stand and where my future belongs. Heaven sure looks sweeter every day.
Lastly, I have come to the realization that the 30's are a great time in life. Sometimes I miss being able to stay awake all night and stumble in to work the next morning. Even though I don't miss those hangovers, I do miss the spontaneity of my younger years. But I know I will never be in that body again even though I bust my behind running to get there. The knees and ankles give out just about the point my six pack is about to appear. And it doesn't have anything to do with eating sweets! I am not always proper and with age I have lost my filter has become a little loose. I do need a little more makeup to cover up almost 35 years of living but hey at least I have the money to buy it. I am thankful I am married and not out in the dating scene anymore. I never was good at that anyway. Plus I would be trouble now out there with the confidence I have gained over the years. I am old enough to appreciate my husband and understand the male gender a little better but I am young enough to run around with my kids and not be considered uncool. I can still wear yoga pants and it be considered cute fashion. I don't even know what "mom" jeans are anyway. I can still remember Boyz 2 Men, Salt N Peppa, Guns N Roses, Bocephus and Prince. But I like to feed my old soul with some Percy Sledge and Donna Summer when I am at the house alone. Now I know I can still get down in my 30's. The day I can't dance will be the day I am done. But hey, there is dancing in Heaven. I am just not sure it is to Sir Mix Alot's "I like big butts." I surely cannot lie. Sorry, couldn't resist that one.
All in all, I thank the Lord for 2012. Thank you family, friends, coworkers, brothers and sisters in Christ for making it great. I am ready for God to knock my socks off in 2013! I anticipate getting to meet new people and I am thankful for the fabulous people that are already in my life. I look forward to waking up each morning with Bryan Rhodes. He makes my heart smile and touches my soul like no one else. I pray each of you has a blessed New Year! May you all receive a continuous dose of God's best. If your 2012 wasn't what you wanted it to be, I pray that 2013 is a step into a new direction. May you prosper in good health and finances. May you be surrounded by the ones you love and meet those who will leave footprints on your heart. May you influence those around you with your goodness, peace and love.
Goodbye 2012! Hello 2013!
Blessings to all!
Hope
First of all, I have seen that forgiveness is not as easy to come by as some may think. And sometimes saying your sorry does not make the situation better. But saying your sorry is still the right thing to do in order for you to move on even if you can't control how the other person reacts or feels. And there may still be an empty part in you that longs for that person to be in your life. Some situations you have to give to the Lord and trust in Him. I know to never lose hope because God can work miracles and soften hearts.
Secondly, I have realized that I love my kids at the age they are now. Though I miss them sleeping on my chest at times, I love the fact that they can do things on their own. I so enjoy watching them do what they do and I love watching every game. I have the sore back from sitting on stands and bleachers to prove it. I love seeing their individual personalities emerge and I am amazed at how much they reflect who Bryan and I are. Even though Christian (my oldest) and I are one in the same and butt heads at times, he is my tender-hearted kid. He is the one I know will do great things and in whom I know there are seeds planted that will grow and do wondrous things for God's kingdom. He is a thinker and an observer and stands alone and stands out. Bo is Bryan made all over. After Bo does something sweet, I always go to Bryan and tell him how much I love him because I see Bryan in Bo's brown eyes and big heart. He is my child who can charm the stars with his smile and yes that concerns me a little when it comes to girls. He is compassionate and loves to give. He has the cutest mannerisms and makes this house complete. I feel so blessed that God chose me to be their mother.
I have also realized that God's followers are not limited to the church walls. I don't get in religious debates often because they rarely ever end on a good note. I believe God's word and I do believe in going to church so please don't misunderstand me. But I have seen God's love in some amazing people who don't attend church. I have seen that people truly want to know that you are a person who loves the Lord but doesn't shove it in their face with an agenda behind it. I have some conservative views and I am entitled to those views but I also know that I am not perfect. I know that the minute I were to consider myself high and mighty I would be knocked off that high horse in a pile of mud. I can disagree with you and you can disagree with me but I love you because that is what a Christian does. I am intrigued by our differences and I am thankful for our similarities. I also warn you, that if you ask me to pray for you, I will turn into the Jesus freak that I am. I believe in the power of prayer. I know where I stand and where my future belongs. Heaven sure looks sweeter every day.
Lastly, I have come to the realization that the 30's are a great time in life. Sometimes I miss being able to stay awake all night and stumble in to work the next morning. Even though I don't miss those hangovers, I do miss the spontaneity of my younger years. But I know I will never be in that body again even though I bust my behind running to get there. The knees and ankles give out just about the point my six pack is about to appear. And it doesn't have anything to do with eating sweets! I am not always proper and with age I have lost my filter has become a little loose. I do need a little more makeup to cover up almost 35 years of living but hey at least I have the money to buy it. I am thankful I am married and not out in the dating scene anymore. I never was good at that anyway. Plus I would be trouble now out there with the confidence I have gained over the years. I am old enough to appreciate my husband and understand the male gender a little better but I am young enough to run around with my kids and not be considered uncool. I can still wear yoga pants and it be considered cute fashion. I don't even know what "mom" jeans are anyway. I can still remember Boyz 2 Men, Salt N Peppa, Guns N Roses, Bocephus and Prince. But I like to feed my old soul with some Percy Sledge and Donna Summer when I am at the house alone. Now I know I can still get down in my 30's. The day I can't dance will be the day I am done. But hey, there is dancing in Heaven. I am just not sure it is to Sir Mix Alot's "I like big butts." I surely cannot lie. Sorry, couldn't resist that one.
All in all, I thank the Lord for 2012. Thank you family, friends, coworkers, brothers and sisters in Christ for making it great. I am ready for God to knock my socks off in 2013! I anticipate getting to meet new people and I am thankful for the fabulous people that are already in my life. I look forward to waking up each morning with Bryan Rhodes. He makes my heart smile and touches my soul like no one else. I pray each of you has a blessed New Year! May you all receive a continuous dose of God's best. If your 2012 wasn't what you wanted it to be, I pray that 2013 is a step into a new direction. May you prosper in good health and finances. May you be surrounded by the ones you love and meet those who will leave footprints on your heart. May you influence those around you with your goodness, peace and love.
Goodbye 2012! Hello 2013!
Blessings to all!
Hope
Sunday, November 11, 2012
I like to win!
So yesterday we got our first win of the season for Bo's flag football team. It felt so good to finally win a game! We found ourselves quoting the line from Talladega Nights, "If you're not first, you're last." That line is humorous but nevertheless some people find this to be their motto. Bryan has been coaching since Christian was little and we have had every type of season. We have won championships and we have been the last place team. I always tease Bryan that the Lord is trying to teach him patience and that the Lord knows Bryan's character can truly handle the loss. For those of you that know him, you know how competitive he is and losing isn't an easy thing. But losing every game makes winning that much sweeter. You have to go through the tough times to appreciate how great the good times are.
Some people can lose and handle it with dignity while others begin to unleash the inner beast. We all can probably relate that to the current election. I will not get into a political debate but I will say that I saw all kinds of "ugly" come out in the best of people through this time. It is amazing to me how quickly we can go from sweet smiles with a dose of "bless your heart" to "oh no you didn't" and telling people to "redneckanize." I can call myself guilty! But indeed, we are all human, and fight our flesh constantly.
I have to go back to the Beatitudes in the bible. A few of them read:
"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth"
"Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy"
"Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called sons of God"
I mean, really? Meek, merciful, and peacemakers?
I find myself needing help in all of these areas. Maybe we all need a reminder of this.
I don't mean to sound preachy but none of us are perfect in how we handle losses or personal attacks or unfairness. But it is through those times that we find out a lot about ourselves. And it is in those times that other people watch how we act. I always catch myself acting a fool and then someone says something like "Oh, your name is Hope, well that is just what I need today." Yeah yeah and I just gave attitude to someone for not letting me have my way. What a way to be an example, right? People are constantly watching you and sometimes they make a judgement about you quickly that is not always accurate. I have made a ton of mistakes in my past and continually make them today. I am thankful I serve a God of second chances and whose mercies are new every day.
I have gone through some trials in my life and have learned a lot from each one. I have been a winner and a loser. Sometimes I have been a winner on the outside but a loser in my heart. Sometimes I have been a loser but the fight made me a winner. I have been thankful and I have been a brat. I can only hope that I learn from each trial and embrace the good times. I hope that the valleys make me appreciate the mountain tops. I can say that the view is so awesome from the top. But without those valleys I would have no desire to climb. Lord help me to be meek so that I can inherit the earth. Help me to be merciful so that when I need mercy you will give it to me. Help me to be a peacemaker so that you will call me your daughter.
I love to win games and I love to be the first place team. But I have always been more concerned with my boy's character. I want them to play hard, be part of a team, leave it all out on the field, and strive to be the best. I also want them to stand up for what is right, open doors for others, be generous, be respectful, and love the Lord with all of their heart. I will take that over winning a game any day. Those things separate the winners from the losers! God Bless!
P.S. I still like to win games too! :)
Some people can lose and handle it with dignity while others begin to unleash the inner beast. We all can probably relate that to the current election. I will not get into a political debate but I will say that I saw all kinds of "ugly" come out in the best of people through this time. It is amazing to me how quickly we can go from sweet smiles with a dose of "bless your heart" to "oh no you didn't" and telling people to "redneckanize." I can call myself guilty! But indeed, we are all human, and fight our flesh constantly.
I have to go back to the Beatitudes in the bible. A few of them read:
"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth"
"Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy"
"Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called sons of God"
I mean, really? Meek, merciful, and peacemakers?
I find myself needing help in all of these areas. Maybe we all need a reminder of this.
I don't mean to sound preachy but none of us are perfect in how we handle losses or personal attacks or unfairness. But it is through those times that we find out a lot about ourselves. And it is in those times that other people watch how we act. I always catch myself acting a fool and then someone says something like "Oh, your name is Hope, well that is just what I need today." Yeah yeah and I just gave attitude to someone for not letting me have my way. What a way to be an example, right? People are constantly watching you and sometimes they make a judgement about you quickly that is not always accurate. I have made a ton of mistakes in my past and continually make them today. I am thankful I serve a God of second chances and whose mercies are new every day.
I have gone through some trials in my life and have learned a lot from each one. I have been a winner and a loser. Sometimes I have been a winner on the outside but a loser in my heart. Sometimes I have been a loser but the fight made me a winner. I have been thankful and I have been a brat. I can only hope that I learn from each trial and embrace the good times. I hope that the valleys make me appreciate the mountain tops. I can say that the view is so awesome from the top. But without those valleys I would have no desire to climb. Lord help me to be meek so that I can inherit the earth. Help me to be merciful so that when I need mercy you will give it to me. Help me to be a peacemaker so that you will call me your daughter.
I love to win games and I love to be the first place team. But I have always been more concerned with my boy's character. I want them to play hard, be part of a team, leave it all out on the field, and strive to be the best. I also want them to stand up for what is right, open doors for others, be generous, be respectful, and love the Lord with all of their heart. I will take that over winning a game any day. Those things separate the winners from the losers! God Bless!
P.S. I still like to win games too! :)
Saturday, October 13, 2012
A picture is worth more than you know!
On Friday KSBJ brought up a topic that hit close to my heart. They talked about moms getting back in the picture. Basically, the topic was about how a lot of times moms are not in the pictures with their kids because they are usually the ones taking them or because they are insecure about their looks. This was my story for years. Many of you have heard my testimony about this but I am sure a lot of you haven't.
Growing up, I always had some insecurities about my looks but nevertheless I was a ham in front of a camera. I love to smile and was always "cheesing" for a picture. About a year after I had Christian, I was going through some mixed emotions in my life. Life was good with Bryan and my baby boy but something was missing and I didn't know what. I was a new mom trying to find myself again. Bryan left for work not knowing what to say to me so I just laid there on the bed and prayed to God for patience and peace in my life. In the middle of my tears, my right eye began to twitch uncontrollably. I called Bryan, who was a busy store manager at the time. Just hearing that my eye was twitching didn't really concern him at the time. Looking back now, I am sure that sounded silly. I called my mother who told me to call the doctor since I have a history of lupus. The doctor immediately told me to head to the ER to make sure I wasn't having a stroke. A good friend of mine met me there and by the time I reached the hospital the whole right side of my face was distorted.
I was in good spirits not really hurting and ignorant as to what was going on. The doctor examined me, and after getting the results of the MRI told me I had bells palsy and that my face would improve over time. They gave me a round of steroids and told me to follow up with my primary doctor. When Bryan came in that night, I could tell by the look on his face that he was in shock. I knew it was bad and I knew he felt helpless.
There was nothing the hospital could do and I was sent home left to deal with the ugly aftermath of it all. When Christian who wasn't even walking yet saw me, he looked at me strangely. It was a huge difference. Despite the condition I was in, the Lord gave me this incredible peace to deal with it. I was able to get myself out of the house and go to church where my church family was so supportive. During the worst stages of it, I was still able to go out in public despite the strange looks I got from some people. But in having that peace, I never knew what a trial I would go through over time and how much it would effect my life.
I didn't think much of it for a while until the church was having pictures made for a directory. We went to have our pictures made and afterwards the lady shows you the proofs you can choose from. I wasn't prepared for that moment. It was the first time I had seen a picture of myself since having bells palsy. Everyone had told me how much my face improved but when she pulled up those proofs tears began to fill my eyes. The poor lady didn't know what to say. I broke down! I told Bryan to get the pictures of Christian by himself and choose the one for the directory. The whole way home I sat in silence crying my eyes out telling myself that the image I saw was the ugliest image I had ever seen. And so began a battle that would scar me for so many years. I did not take a picture after that.
I remember looking in the mirror constantly looking for a change, hoping for a miracle. I just knew that with all the prayers that the Lord was going to instantly heal my face. That didn't happen. I questioned myself as a person thinking maybe I was vain or something. For about 4 years, I didn't take a family picture. There were no family portraits or Christmas pictures. I was done.
Then over time and after praying I realized that my boys were growing up and that they had no pictures with their mom. I didn't want to smile but the Lord wanted me to smile at Him. The Lord was and is always working on my behalf.
So when Bo was 2 and Christian was 6, I decided to brave another family portrait. I went in apprehensively and told the photographer my story about my crooked face. She said she could touch up anything I didn't like. Though I was tempted, I bravely said no. The call came in a couple of weeks later to go and view my picture. Expecting to turn into a puddle again, I went to see them. I was actually surprised at how much better my face looked from that first family picture. That lady will never know what obstacles I had to overcome to even be in that picture. All I could do was praise God! He is the author and perfecter of my faith.
Now please know that I still have to fight those insecurities. Most people who know me now would never know that I have had bells palsy. But doctors always spot it right away. It never fully corrected. In fact one of my doctors said it was one the worst cases he had ever seen. There are still facial expressions I can't do. But over time, I have realized that it is those imperfections that have made me who I am today. Though it is not the thinnest or the prettiest, there is a story in this face. And even though I am not the first to jump in a picture, I am getting more comfortable with it. Crooked or not, I don't want to lose my smile. I want people to see Jesus in me and I don't know how they can if I don't smile.
As women we all face insecurities. Especially in the age of social media, it is hard to keep up with all the latest trends. We all have issues that plague us. If we have curly hair, we want straight hair. If we have blond hair, we want dark hair. If we love love our legs we hate our stomachs. I know that many of us don't like taking pictures because of some of those reasons and a dozen more that I didn't say. But remember, God knows your name and knows the very numbers of hairs on your head. He thinks you are beautiful. Don't let insecurities get in the way of making memories. Get in the pictures! What we think doesn't look right about us, someone else is noticing just how great you look. Always remember the Lord loves you and He created you from head to toe. And a beautiful spirit will shine through to the outside. We were created in His image and that is beautiful beyond measure.
Love you all!
Hope
Growing up, I always had some insecurities about my looks but nevertheless I was a ham in front of a camera. I love to smile and was always "cheesing" for a picture. About a year after I had Christian, I was going through some mixed emotions in my life. Life was good with Bryan and my baby boy but something was missing and I didn't know what. I was a new mom trying to find myself again. Bryan left for work not knowing what to say to me so I just laid there on the bed and prayed to God for patience and peace in my life. In the middle of my tears, my right eye began to twitch uncontrollably. I called Bryan, who was a busy store manager at the time. Just hearing that my eye was twitching didn't really concern him at the time. Looking back now, I am sure that sounded silly. I called my mother who told me to call the doctor since I have a history of lupus. The doctor immediately told me to head to the ER to make sure I wasn't having a stroke. A good friend of mine met me there and by the time I reached the hospital the whole right side of my face was distorted.
I was in good spirits not really hurting and ignorant as to what was going on. The doctor examined me, and after getting the results of the MRI told me I had bells palsy and that my face would improve over time. They gave me a round of steroids and told me to follow up with my primary doctor. When Bryan came in that night, I could tell by the look on his face that he was in shock. I knew it was bad and I knew he felt helpless.
There was nothing the hospital could do and I was sent home left to deal with the ugly aftermath of it all. When Christian who wasn't even walking yet saw me, he looked at me strangely. It was a huge difference. Despite the condition I was in, the Lord gave me this incredible peace to deal with it. I was able to get myself out of the house and go to church where my church family was so supportive. During the worst stages of it, I was still able to go out in public despite the strange looks I got from some people. But in having that peace, I never knew what a trial I would go through over time and how much it would effect my life.
I didn't think much of it for a while until the church was having pictures made for a directory. We went to have our pictures made and afterwards the lady shows you the proofs you can choose from. I wasn't prepared for that moment. It was the first time I had seen a picture of myself since having bells palsy. Everyone had told me how much my face improved but when she pulled up those proofs tears began to fill my eyes. The poor lady didn't know what to say. I broke down! I told Bryan to get the pictures of Christian by himself and choose the one for the directory. The whole way home I sat in silence crying my eyes out telling myself that the image I saw was the ugliest image I had ever seen. And so began a battle that would scar me for so many years. I did not take a picture after that.
I remember looking in the mirror constantly looking for a change, hoping for a miracle. I just knew that with all the prayers that the Lord was going to instantly heal my face. That didn't happen. I questioned myself as a person thinking maybe I was vain or something. For about 4 years, I didn't take a family picture. There were no family portraits or Christmas pictures. I was done.
Then over time and after praying I realized that my boys were growing up and that they had no pictures with their mom. I didn't want to smile but the Lord wanted me to smile at Him. The Lord was and is always working on my behalf.
So when Bo was 2 and Christian was 6, I decided to brave another family portrait. I went in apprehensively and told the photographer my story about my crooked face. She said she could touch up anything I didn't like. Though I was tempted, I bravely said no. The call came in a couple of weeks later to go and view my picture. Expecting to turn into a puddle again, I went to see them. I was actually surprised at how much better my face looked from that first family picture. That lady will never know what obstacles I had to overcome to even be in that picture. All I could do was praise God! He is the author and perfecter of my faith.
Now please know that I still have to fight those insecurities. Most people who know me now would never know that I have had bells palsy. But doctors always spot it right away. It never fully corrected. In fact one of my doctors said it was one the worst cases he had ever seen. There are still facial expressions I can't do. But over time, I have realized that it is those imperfections that have made me who I am today. Though it is not the thinnest or the prettiest, there is a story in this face. And even though I am not the first to jump in a picture, I am getting more comfortable with it. Crooked or not, I don't want to lose my smile. I want people to see Jesus in me and I don't know how they can if I don't smile.
As women we all face insecurities. Especially in the age of social media, it is hard to keep up with all the latest trends. We all have issues that plague us. If we have curly hair, we want straight hair. If we have blond hair, we want dark hair. If we love love our legs we hate our stomachs. I know that many of us don't like taking pictures because of some of those reasons and a dozen more that I didn't say. But remember, God knows your name and knows the very numbers of hairs on your head. He thinks you are beautiful. Don't let insecurities get in the way of making memories. Get in the pictures! What we think doesn't look right about us, someone else is noticing just how great you look. Always remember the Lord loves you and He created you from head to toe. And a beautiful spirit will shine through to the outside. We were created in His image and that is beautiful beyond measure.
Love you all!
Hope
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)