Hopeless Parents

This guest post from Lenny Mcknight

I love my parents. They are wonderful people and I am lucky to have them as parents. However, when it comes to anything regarding modern technology, they are hopeless. My mother called me once to tell me the computer was broken. She proceeded to tell me the screen was black and none of the buttons were working. When I asked if she had turned it on, her response was “you have to turn it on”. This at least gives you an idea of how clueless they are. Well, last week their satellite went out or so they thought. Now, I am not an expert satellite technician, but by listening to my mom describe the problem it was a simple fix. She told me the lights on the box were not working and the power button was not either. To be honest, I was impressed that she tried the power button. I asked her if it was plugged in and she told me yes immediately. When I finally talked her into checking, the problem was fixed. Apparently she unplugged it to vacuum and never plugged it back. Sometimes I wonder if she will ever learn and accept technology.

Bubble Wrap popping

We had a lot of fun dancing and jumping while popping this bubble wrap!  :)  

Hop on one leg, jumping jacks, dance party!  You name it and it was super fun to get crazy. 

Leaves are falling- Craft

We had another fun craft today at the YMCA.  First I read a story, "The Leaves are Falling One by One."    The story is actually sung to the tune of "The Ants go Marching."  Before I read the story to the group I asked the kids what season we were in then we walked to the window and looked for at the colors that the leaves had changed.  

After the story they got to create their own tree with leaves falling off.  Very simple and easy steps.

1. Trace hands (it is your tree)

2. Color tree and add any other details such as a sun, grass, or flowers.

3. Use an ink pad and fingers to add leaves on the tree's or falling off the tree. 

Here is Selah's tree...yes she traced it on her own and it appears as if she only has 4 fingers but I promise she does have all 5. :) 

Thankful Thursday

Here are a few things I am Thankful for!  Thank-you Jesus for each and every blessing you shower me with.

1. My hubby as he knows how to cheer me up the best.

2. Hearing from friends that I have not seen or hear from in a long time.

3. Yummy sugar cookies with loads of frosting.  :)

4. A great See you at the Pole year and post rally.  :)  Keep praying for your schools.

5. The sunshine we got yesterday and the beautiful fall colors!


What are you thankful for today?

Wonder Women...LOL

I have no idea how this happened???  I was only sweeping and then snap I broke my broom.  So my new name is Wonder Women!  LOL  I guess I will be shopping for a new broom tomorrow.  :) 

Worship Wednesday: 10th Avenue North

LOVE IS HERE!   :)  His love satisfies!  :) 

See you at the pole 2011: Converge

Today was "See you at the Pole."  Did you take the time to go pray at your flag pole?  We have several schools in the area and my husband headed out early this morning to go pray with the students.  

This program is unique as it is all student run.  Students meet outside at the flag pole and pray for their school, peers, community, and in general for God to show up in mighty ways over the school year.  For some student's it is  a challenge to stand up for their faith and for other's they have so much boldness to proclaim how much they love Jesus!

Here are some facts on See you at the Pole:

How did See You at the Pole™ start?

See You at the Pole™ was inspired by the initiative of student in one youth group in Burleson, Texas, early in 1990. The teenagers felt led to go and pray at night at several area schools during a weekend youth group retreat. They had a profound time of prayer, and their experience was shared with thousands of other youth from across Texas in the form of a challenge in June 1990 at a large conference. More than 56,000 students on 1,200 campuses in Texas and three other states were documented at the first See You at the Pole™ in September of that year. The movement continued to grow nationally and internationally from 1991 on.

Is See You at the Pole™ legal?

The answer to this question is a firm "Yes!" The right of students to gather and pray outside of instructional time—while at school—is clearly a Constitutionally protected form of free speech. This has been affirmed in regard to "Equal Access Clubs" by the 1990 U.S. Supreme Court decision inWestside Community Schools v. Mergens. And in 1995, President Bill Clinton directed then-Secretary of Education, Richard Riley, to prepare guidelines for what the government deemed "appropriate religious expression on school grounds." These guidelines were issued and upheld by the government several times since. In them, See You at the Pole™ is specifically named as legal, appropriate, and protected:

"Students may also participate in before or after school events with religious content, such as "see you at the flag pole" gatherings, on the same terms as they may participate in other noncurriculum activities on school premises. School officials may neither discourage nor encourage participation in such an event."

It should be noted that among the legal groups which affirmed the legality of See You at the Pole™ by drafting the USDOE guidelines were the Christian Legal Society, American Civil Liberties Union, the Anti-Defamation League, National Council of Churches, National Association of Evangelicals, and People for the American Way, as well as six others. For a complete list of the Drafting Committee and Endorsing Organizations, contact the National Network of Youth Ministries or call (858) 451-1111.

If students who are praying are told by someone from the administration (or otherwise in authority at the school) to stop praying during See You at the Pole™, we recommend that you obey that authority and move your prayer time off campus. See You at the Pole™ is about praying, not arguing about your legal rights. You may want to bring a parent, youth worker, or other adult with you to speak to the authority later. If necessary, you may want to contact a legal group who can clarify your rights for the school official.

How can my church support See You at the Pole™ and our students?

Churches throughout the nation are seeking to support Christian students as they step up up to be leaders at their schools. There are a number of prayer strategies churches are using to support teenagers.

Many churches set aside the weekend before See You at the Pole™ to identify and pray for Christian teachers and students in their worship services. Some call this "Campus Challenge Sunday." Resources, including a "Challenge Sunday Tool Kit," are available from The Challenge Alliance.

Many adults have "prayed ahead" by participating in the Campus Prayer Journey, meeting to walk and pray at "every elementary, secondary, and collegiate campus in the United States and Canada" on the night before See You at the Pole™.

You can go on "prayer drives" in your city, praying for schools as you drive past them. Alternatively, you can pray for schools as you drive past them during your daily routine.

Moms in Touch is an international ministry of mothers meeting an hour a week to pray for the schools their children attend.

Is See You at the Pole™ biblical? Didn't Jesus condemn public prayer?

There is nothing more important to the people and ministries supporting See You at the Pole™ than to be obedient to God's will and consistent with the teachings of the Bible.

Of the few comments of concern about public prayer and See You at the Pole™ we have received, mot focus on the Gospel of Matthew chapter 6, quoting Jesus Christ:

[5] "And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. [6] But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly."

Some have said of this passage, "Jesus is saying here that prayer should be a private matter between God and the one praying." We would respectfully disagree that this is the concern of what Jesus is teaching in Matthew 6.

Jesus clearly seems to say that the MOTIVE of those He condemns in this passage is "that they may be seen of men." One should be extremely cautious about judging the motives of teenagers who pray at See You at the Pole™ is "for show," even though it is in public. To the contrary, one of the stories from a past year was this eyewitness account of a young girl in Massachusetts:

At an elementary school near Boston, a little girl was at her school's flagpole all by herself. After some time, her principal went out to where she was and asked her, "What are you doing?"

The girl replied, "I'm here for meet me at the pole."

"But there's no one else here, " the principal pointed out.

"Oh, no," the girl protested, "I'm here to meet God."

The young girl "got it"! Her testimony was that she was praying to meet with God, not "to be seen of men." And yet her prayer was public.

It should be pointed out that any public prayer runs the risk of being "for show" or a "display of righteousness" that falls within the condemnation of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount.

Jesus Himself prayed in public. So did the Apostle Paul and others. Any student of God's Word could cite specific references. A careful review of the Scripture would not lead one to the conlcusion that public prayer in and of itself is unbiblical. Would anyone condemn Rick Warren for leading prayer at the inauguration of a president? Or the chaplain of the Senate for opening a session in prayer, even though it may be broadcast on C-SPAN?

In the words and context of what Jesus said, does it not seem clear that he is condemning an attitude of the HEART, not prayer in public as a whole?

We would be the first to echo that condemnation. We don't believe God would be at all pleased if someone prayed with a proud heart. We encourage all those who participate in See You at the Pole™ to do so in the humility that comes from wisdom (James 1:13b).

We also believe God does not want See You at the Pole™ to end with a one-day event, but to be used as a springboard for students to unite together to bless and pray for their school. For more information, please read the answer to "We don't want this to end! What can we do after See You at the Pole™?"

READ MORE AT THE SEE YOU AT THE POLE WEBSITE

Tonight our youth group will be meeting up with a couple other youth groups for a post "Saw you at the Pole" rally!  :)  It should be a fun time for the kids to really grasp the importance of praying for their schools!  :)  

Guest Post: Charity, The Pure Love of Christ

I was reading this post from Rise Above Your Limits  and I knew I wanted to have her guest post this on my blog.  

Charity, The Pure Love Of Christ

A few years ago, I was profoundly effected by an experience I had concerning Charity.  Living near me, was a young mother who had just had a new baby.  Having been in this same situation several times myself,  I was well acquainted with the struggle that can come from adjusting to life with a new baby.  I had made dinner for her and her husband and went to deliver it to her home, with the intent of offering to do some house cleaning for her while I was there.  

As I entered her home, it was a disaster, clothes, and stuff were all over the floor and a pile of dirty dishes were in the sink. I was so grateful for the opportunity to help someone who so obviously needed some help.


She took one look at me and the tray of food I'd brought and with a sound of anger in her voice told me she didn't need my food nor my help...she said she didn't accept Charity.     


People often view acts of Charity in terms of giving food, money, and clothing to someone who is financially struggling.  A major portion of our society feels uncomfortable receiving this type of 'Charity'...but, 

what REALLY is Charity?

Recently I was studying one of my favorite New Testament passages in 1 Corinthians 13 (KJV).  In this chapter, the Apostle Paul gives a clarifying definition of what Charity really is.  vs 4-8:

CHARITY

·             suffereth long

·             is kind

·             envieth not

·             vaunteth not itself (prideful)

·             is not puffed up

·             Doth not behave itself unseemly (indecently, unbecomingly)

·             seeketh not her own (selfishness)

·             is not easily provoked (anger, provoking, self-mastery)

·             thinketh no evil

·             rejoiceth not in iniquity (injustice, unrighteousness) 

·             but rejoiceth in truth

·             beareth all things

·             believeth all things

·             hopeth all things

·             endureth all things

·             Charity Never Faileth (dependability)

That's a pretty long list isn't it? It can also be overwhelming for those of us that are striving to be more Christlike.  As I view this list, three things come to mind...

1.       Charity is a state of being.  It's not random acts of kindness, but it is who we are.

2.       With God all things are possible.  He wants us to have His pure love emanate from us, so He will help us if we ask!

3.       We are given opportunities daily to develop Charity, the pure love of Christ by:

                * giving someone the benefit of the doubt

                * not categorizing someone

                * accepting someones weaknesses, differences, and    shortcomings 

                * having patience when someone has let us down

                * resisting the impulse to become offended

                * forgiving those who have hurt us

                * accepting the best of each other
                                        (Source: Marvin J Ashton)

These are just a few examples of how we can develop our character into becoming truly Charitable people.  Developing the true love of Christ is a daily task, it involves the decisions we are continually making.  When sought after in small doses, Charity doesn't seem so over whelming and comes into focus.

Make sure you head on over and tell her you loved this post as much as me!  Also she had a Wednesday Blog hop to join!  :)   Go meet more Christian bloggers!  :) 

I am always looking for more guest posters!  :)  If you have a family friendly I would love to hear from you.  Email me at aprillivingwell@gmail.com or comment here.  I am looking content but not limited to parenting, God, encouragement, crafts, artsy, or cooking posts.  :) 

Prayer: A Couple's Most Intimate Act - Beliefnet.com

I love this article! :) "Couples who pray together stay together!" :)

I encourage you all to pray with your spouse! :)

Prayer: A Couple's Most Intimate Act - Beliefnet.com

Shark- Sh sh sh sound

Since I work at the YMCA in the mini care we sometimes to little fun lesson crafts!  :) We did this cute shark thing so Selah decided our letter this week should be "S" and also since her name starts with the letter "S."  We are also working on the "sh" sound since we are doing shark but also we will do "S".     We should have a few more "S" things to share later this week.  :) 

For this activity we read "Five Little Sharks Swimming in the Sea" and we already had these 5 cute sharks so I handed them out to my little helpers.  The book has some fun motions that the kids could use their shark and act out.  

Before we read the story we sang the song "Slippery Fish."  Here are the lyrics:

(make a fish with hands together)Slippery fish, slippery fish swimming in the water

Slippery fish, slippery fish,

Gulp, Gulp, Gulp

 It was eaten by a...

 (move hands around like you have 8 tentacles)Octopus,  Octopus, swimming in the water

Octopus, Octopus,

Gulp, Gulp, Gulp

It was eaten by a...

(move hands side to side)Tuna Fish, tuna fish swimming in the water

Tuna fish, tuna fish, 

Gulp, Gulp, Gulp

It was eaten by a... 

(put hand on forehead like a shark fin) Great White Shark, Great White Shark swimming in the water

Great white shark, great white shark

Gulp, Gulp, Gulp

It was eaten by a...

(push hands up over head like water spouting out of a whale)  Humongous Whale, Humongous whale swimming in the water

Humongous whale, humongous whale

Gulp, Gulp, Gulp

It was eaten by a...BURP!  

To make this shark all you need is an envelope.  Lick the envelope closed, cut one end across so your hand can be the puppet and then cut a triangle and use the triangle for the fin.  Allow them to glue on the fin, color, draw an eye, teeth, and gills. :) Then allow them to act out the story or just be a shark.  :)

Wordless Wednesday

Coming Up on Praises of a Wife and Mommy

Hi Everyone,

I am in shock that this is the last week of September.  Time is going so fast!  So I wanted to give you an update on some things that are coming up on Praises of a Wife and Mommy.

First the giveaway for an awesome Pilates DVD will be ending on Friday!  Make sure you get your entry in!  :)

Currently I am reading and will be doing a review shortly on 2 different books.  So keep your eyes peeled for 2 new giveaways to start soon.  :)  One book is a great book for mom's of daughters!  :)  So excited to share it with you.

I will also be having some quest posts soon too.  If you feel you have something you would like to share here on Praises of a Wife and Mommy please send me and email to aprillivingwell@gmail.com   or comment below.  I will have links back to your site so you can get some new readers too!  :) I am looking for content on parenting, God, encouragement, kids activities.

This week we are working on the letter "S" and will be showcasing all the fun things we will do while we learn it.  S stands for shark, Selah, swimming...and so much more!  :)

Yesterday we went and looked at this very nice house in a great neighborhood and I would like to share some details on that adventure.  I hope to post that soon.

Well, the cookie dough has been in the fridge long enough so it is time to back some cookies!  YAY!  We have had a lot of rain so it is baking time here!

Also, I have a cranky 6 month old breaking in some teeth... I HOPE THEY COME IN SOON!!!!

Serve Jail time or go to church for a year

First, I think this is AWESOME!

My favorite line was "it is not about incarceration but about restoration."  AMEN!  I hope WISCONSIN can model this idea soon!  God is the answer and I love that this option is there.  

What are your thoughts?  

4 years ago- 4 birthday reviews

So hard to believe my lil girl is 4!!!  

 2007-Birthday

This was such a joyful day for daddy and I!  You surprised us with and early arrival (4 weeks)!  Mommy's water broke at school while teaching!  You were a good baby and mommy loved to sing and cuddle with you every day!

Happy 1st Birthday! 2008

You had a special cake all to your self as we thought you had an allergy but you were healed from it!!  :)   We had a fish theme at this party and it was at a park near the river.  You were growing up so fast, just learning to walk!   

Happy 2nd Birthday-2009

 Butterflies were the theme and you had a lot of fun when we went outside to play.  We had recently just moved and you had already made several new friends that came to your party.  You were starting to talk talk talk learning new words each day.  

Happy 3rd Birthday-2010

This was your first "princess" themed party.  You looked stunning in your purple dress which matched your dolly who you named Belle.  Your personality really started to pop out here as you would let us know what you liked and disliked.  

Happy 4th Birthday- 2011

"Tangled" is your favorite movie with Princess Rapunzel.  You sing and dance to all her songs and you have been talking about your party all week because you had so much fun.  You had a big year as you became a big sister, what an amazing big sister you are.  You love to hold your brother and you help mommy with changing your brother by throwing his diapers away and you get burp rags for me often.  What a great little servant heart you have! 

Dear Selah, 

Mommy, Daddy, and your baby brother love you so much.  I feel so blessed that God has entrusted me to raise you.  You are growing up to be a beautiful person inside and out and you teach me many lessons as each day passes.  I continue to pray for you daily.  I pray that your heart would continue to grow in love with our Heavenly Maker, I pray for your future and I even pray for your future husband.  I ask for guidance often but you truly are a good girl and you make mommy and daddy proud.  This last year I had so much fun doing crafts, having our shopping dates, cuddle times, and water park adventures.  I am looking forward to this next year and I trust and know you will continue to grow in love with Christ and walk the straight and narrow path!  

Love, hugs and kisses, 

Mommy

Look Ma, I got dressed all by myself!

This is the outfit my daughter put on to go to church.  LOL!  Yes, the tights she picked were red

 with Christmas tree's on them.  LOL!  I love her personality!  

Happy "Half" Birthday Little Titus (0-6 month photo's)

6 month's old today!!  I am having a hard time believing my little guy is 6 month's old today!  Time is going way too FAST!!!  I need him to stop growing and stay mommy's baby.  I actually really do love watching him grow and learn new things.  

Happy Half Birthday Titus!

Selah meeting her brother for the first time. 

I'm new here: March 24, 2011

1 month old on Easter Sunday and not happy here but adorable in his hat. 

2 month's and very happy and starting   

to giggle.

Big boy at 3 month's sitting in the Bumpo.  

Making goofy faces at 4 month's

Moving and rolling all over the place at 5 month's.  

My sitter at 6 month's old!  BIG BOY

Wanted the paper so bad and then tried to eat it.  

Dear Titus,

Your mommy, daddy, and sister are blessed by you.  You are such a playful and fun boy!  We are excited to continue to watch you grow.  Currently your favorite thing to do is your jumper and you are turning into a great eater.  You love sweet potatoes and banana's.  You are still breast feeding and recently you are not happy to get any bottles.  I think you are a mommy's boy but mommy is going to buy a new bottles so you can still drink from it.  You have already shown interest in your sippy cup too so that might be a good option. Mommy and daddy pray for you daily and we know God has big plans for you!

XOXOXO,
Mommy