5 WAYS TO REALLY 'EXPERIENCE' CHRISTMAS!

5 WAYS TO REALLY 'EXPERIENCE' CHRISTMAS!

And a Easy Yummy Recipe- Don’t Miss It!

Usually, it is right around this time that the press sets in...

You know what I’m talking about – the ‘still have Christmas cards to send, gifts to buy, cookies to bake, a house to clean and plans to make,’ press.  It’s precisely at this time that tensions begin to rise, intentions start to fail, focus begins to wane and joy starts to sneak out the back door…

It’s right at this time, less than ten days before Christmas, that we start to lose perspective…

In November, my husband and I welcomed a beautiful six pound baby girl into our lives.  To say that we have been busy and tired would be a huge understatement.  We are beyond blessed and excited to be a family of four, but if I am being honest, keeping a super clean house, being ready for Christmas and, well, even getting a shower on some days has proven to be a challenge for me...

With that being said, my perspective has truly been a bit off until recently.  In a mad dash to clean my house before company was coming over, I found myself extremely fatigued and frustrated as my two year old was literally under my feet at every single step.  Mix that with a screaming newborn and I am sure you could sympathize with my fleeing thoughts of running away to some remote island by myself!  It didn’t take long however, for my witty two year old to help me see my error.

With all the wonder one could ever muster, his eyes glowed and he said, “Look Momma! Look at the stars!!!” as he whimsically stared at all the dust catching sunlight, as it came through the blinds in our bedroom window.  For five still minutes, he stared at these ‘stars’ as if they had fallen from the sky itself.  I was speechless.

Stars.  He saw stars. I saw mess and felt frustration because I believed my house just might not be clean enough for Christmas guests, that I am sure are not coming for a clean house anyway.  Here I was a half second away from blowing my top, putting him in time out and allowing myself to feel bad about ‘all’ I have going on in that moment, when his sweet perspective gently changed mine.  Staring at him staring at the ‘stars,’ I felt my heartrate slow, my mind clear and in that moment I entered his little world of wonder- only to experience it for myself.  Had I stayed in my hustle and bustle I would have missed it.  I would have missed Christmas too…

This incident only happened a few days ago, but it taught me something that I pray the Lord will have me remember for years to come.

PERSPECTIVE.

In a season known for endless to do lists, busyness and sadly frustration, it is easy to lose sight of ALL that matters this time of year.  To help keep my mind where it needs to stay, I made a list of Christmas songs, which will help me keep the right perspective this beautifully blessed Christmas season.  Maybe this can help you too if you can relate.

1.      My Grown Up Christmas List:  Make yourself a grown up Christmas list.  Not filled with gifts for yourself (although the benefit will turn out to be just that) but a list of ways YOU can be the gift!
 

a.       Bake for a neighbor
b.      Serve food at the homeless shelter (great to do with your kiddos)
c.       Bring coats downtown and hand them out to the homeless.
d.      Sit with your elderly family member, listen with your whole heart, and let them tell you all the stories their heart desires. (you can do this at the nursing home if you have no elderly family members.)

2.      Silent Night: Give yourself a silent night and some time to reflect.  Turn on the old Christmas Carols that mean the most to you, pour yourself some hot chocolate, and be intentionally reflective for even just 5 minutes.  Sit, think and soak in the beauty of the Christmas season.  You won’t regret it.

3.      There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays:  Home does not have to be your house, but it could be.  Home is the place and time you spend with the people you love most- while doing the most simplest of things.  It’s there in the simplicity that the spirit of Christmas can most sweetly be experienced.

4.      Away In A Manger:  Although many choose not to, true holiday joy cannot be experienced without first accepting the real Gift of Christmas.  Christ is the gift, cliché or not, he is a true historically documented figure that came to the Earth, lived a more than righteous life, performed miracles, was crucified to death only to be seen alive again by hundreds of eye witnesses’…  His birth, His life is the Gift of Christmas. Belief in Him comes with the promise of eternity, joy, fulfilling love and peace in abundance.  Now that’s better than any Black Friday deal I’ve heard of! (People, churches, religions and even I myself have made a mess out of who Jesus really is.  If you do not know Him, please do not let the mess we’ve made of Him dictate Who He is to you.  He would love the opportunity to introduce Himself to you, with no help from any of us, just ask Him.)  Unwrapping His love at Christmas is a gift that truly is priceless.

5.      Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas:  Finally, remember that it is not always the circumstance or trial that is permanent but our memories.  As crazy as this season can be, and as hard as some of our lives are at the current time, usually these things past.  How we respond, the way we allow ourselves to react- that will be what we (and sometimes others) remember most as our Christmas experience during this season.  SO- Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas. Relax, Reflect and Rejoice in this beautiful Christmas Season!

Quick and Easy Yummy Chocolate Bark Recipe

Make This With Your Kiddos- Make a Memory!  Makes a Great Gift!

Ingredients:

25 Oreo cookies

3 cups white chocolate chips or semisweet chocolate chips (can do half of both)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use with semisweet chips only)

To Make:

Line a 9-inch-square baking pan with waxed paper. Coat the paper with nonstick spray; set it aside. Pour the cookies into a large bowl and break them into small pieces.  Melt the chips in a large microwave-safe bowl according to the package directions. After chips have melted add extract. Remove from the microwave and quickly fold in the cookie pieces with a spatula. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan and spread to about a 1/2-inch thickness. Refrigerate until solid, about 1 hour.

Remove the bark from the pan and carefully peel off the waxed paper. Set the bark on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the bark into 12 bars for wrapping or 24 triangles for boxing.  Store in an airtight container.

 

Because Each Minute Is A Gift, Let's Be Intentional This Christmas Season and

Truly Experience Every Second!

 #MinutesMatter

 

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord...“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

Luke 2:10-14

 

Ladies Night: Football 101

Last month I posted a blog post about wanting to learn more about football.  I shared that for the last 10 years, I had been attending numerous  football games and "following the crowd."  When the crowd cheered...I cheered.  When the crowd seemed upset over a call, I pretended to be upset as well.  It seemed much easier to pretend instead of taking the time to learn the many rules, calls, procedures and regulations to this game.  How could I begin even to understand a sport with so many players and positions?   After writing the post I was surprised to learn that so many others felt the same way. 

I am excited to share that there is hope for all of us that didn't realize a turnover is not just a pastry.

Join me for the Ladies Night:  Football 101 at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  This fun and FREE event will take place on Wednesday, November 12th.  All you have to do is click here and enter the contest.

I would love to meet you in person and "tackle" learning this game together.  Hurry!  Contest ends on Monday, November 10th!

On The Eve Of Fifty!

On Saturday,  I will reach a milestone that some women dread....I turn 50!  I say bring it on!  I am excited to step into a new generation and take full advantage of my AARP card. 



A birthday is a great time to look back on the past year and set goals for the one that awaits.  I don't have many regrets in my life or things that I wish I had done different.  Okay...maybe a few.  I do regret my aqua net hair of the 80's, the fashion trends inspired by flash dance and that time I trashed the inside of a boy's car because he broke up with my best friend.  (they are now married)

Looking ahead is much more fun.  I feel that turning the page to the 50's is like a blank slate.  The possibilities are endless...but there is one goal that I want to reach soon.  It may sound crazy, but....I want to understand FOOTBALL.



Let me explain.  I am the proud mother of four.  One is married and two are away at college.  That leaves my son as a temporary only child.  In two years, he will be spreading his wings and leaving the nest.  He love sports and especially football.  I sometimes feel left out when I hear him and my husband speak non stop about football.  I want to contribute instead of staring at my phone googling "football for dummies."   I need help.  Please explain to me the difference between a full back and half back?  Why would you want half when you can have full?  What is a safety?  I thought a blitz was a reindeer? Could you explain what it means when a ref throws a hankie on the field? 

Here is my dream.  This Sunday when the men in my house are watching the big game, I want to come in the room and blow their minds with my football knowledge.



Are you with me?  Will you help me?  I will provide the tailgate.

Enjoy A Good Laugh Today!

She said nothing...but said EVERYTHING!

I love being a grandmother.  I love looking at Emma's little face and seeing her smile over the simple things.  What a delight it is to see her eyes light up over a new sound or toy.  Being a long distance grandparent has it's challenges, but with a little creativity and technology, relationships can still be strong and beautiful.  On average, I usually see this little punkin' once a month.

During a recent visit, I found myself just staring at her every movement until I became distracted.  You are probably thinking, "What could be more important than Emma?'  My answer is NOTHING, but many things can grab my attention and this time it was a thing that many of us have.  We take it everywhere, we give it a lot of attention and it can be a major distraction.  I am talking about our phones.  It contains our social connections, our email, our calendars and to do lists.  It affirms us, entertains us and keeps us distracted.

As I was laying beside Emma enjoying the sweetness of her cues and smiles, I was being courted by the sounds of texts, emails and notifications.  I convinced myself that it would be okay to step away for just a moment and then return to the "world of cuteness".  The moment quickly turned into minutes and more.  I began to hear Emma babble and I pleasantly reminded her that I was still here and I was coming back to her. (I am sure she understand every word)  She became louder and I suddenly felt a conviction of the soul.  What was I doing?  I was trading precious moments with my granddaughter for unimportant social posts and tweets.  I was replacing live, precious human connection for impersonal social media.  I am thankful for a baby that continued to grace me with beautiful smiles and cues.  Thankful that God used an innocent child to speak truth to this crazy grandma.

I was also reminded of how God must feel when we allow the distractions of the world to take us away from Him.  He desires all of us but we seem to be okay with giving Him a little.  We tell the world our problems and cares in 144 characters but we won't run to the Father.

How about you?  Is there something that is distracting you from God.  Ask Him to remind you of what that is.  Pray about it and then remove it.  Don't miss out on  the important things.

How about taking a break from all distractions and joining The Mom Squad on September 20th?  We have planned a day to "Refresh and Renew" your soul.

**Please make sure to attend Re-Ignite with The Mom Sqaud at Root Candle (in Medina) on Saturday, September 20th. !  Register for this great event today! Re-Ignite with The Mom Squad

Throwback Thursday - Mom Squad Style

This has been a very nostalgic week for me.  Sending two children off to college has forced me take a trip down memory lane.  I am reminded of how I was nervous for them to attend kindergarten and riding the bus for the first time.  Now they are on their own and mom is not around to make sure that laundry is done correctly and that they make it to class on time.

In honor of my trip down "memory lane" I want to give you

THROW BACK THURSDAY - MOM SQUAD STYLE

LISA

 KATHLEEN

JOSIE

MARLIA

RUTH

JOY

ROBIN

                                                                          SONIA

Stay tuned for more THROWBACK pics from the rest of the moms at another time!


Blessings,

Joy

Negotiables of Parenting

 

 

 

 

My daughter and I were recently talking about parenting and how I measured success as a mom.  I jokingly said to her that when I became a mom, I would consider myself successful if I did two things:

1)       Lead each child to the Lord

2)      Complete potty training

Please know my heart and sense of humor with the last.  There are many important tasks that a parent needs to complete and the list can be exhausting.  It made me think about what were the important things that we wanted to make sure we taught each child.  What were our negotiable and non-negotiable issues?  What were the issues that we would take a firm stand on and not give into and what were the ones that we would be more lenient with?

Here are a few of our non-negotiables:

1)       Each child would attend church as long as they were living under our roof.

I remember as a child my parents had this same rule.  I would make up so many excuses to stay home but none worked.  They were smart enough to know that even though I was sitting in the pew with a frown, little by little God’s word was being soaked into my stubborn little head.

 

2)      They would respect us and their siblings.

I wanted my kids to not just tolerate each other but enjoy being with one another.  Fights and arguments happened, but they knew in the end that family is precious, and grace and mercy exists in this household.  It is so much fun to see them spend time with one another as adults and older teens and actually look like they are enjoying it.

 

3)      Relationships are not disposable.

This was a biggy in our home.  As each girl became old enough to date, we were constantly talking about modesty and purity.  We wanted them to see relationships with boys as important and not casual.  I am so grateful for how God has moved within this area. Our oldest married a wonderful Christian man and the other is in a committed relationship with an amazing man of God.  This wasn’t always easy as a parent.  The world was also showing them a different way that contradicted our values.  God won in the end…He always does. 

There is one more that I once had on my list…but my mind was soon changed.  I was one of those moms that shouted from the rooftops  “No Tattoos!”  Yes…that was me.  I felt like that was what all good moms did.  Right?  Then one day one of my non-negotiables was challenged when my 17 year old son came to me and asked if he could get a tattoo.  Before he even got to the second syllable, my good church mom self said NO!  He asked why and I replied with the same zeal and volume.  Because! 

As he walked away without questioning my answer I felt a knot in my stomach.  It was as if I was being prompted to rethink my answer.  I was shocked.  How could I even consider allowing my precious child to do this?   I began to pray and God changed my heart.  Not about getting a tattoo, but about me holding so tightly to what I thought was right.  I went to my son and explained to him the way I was feeling and made him a promise.  If he could find reasons why this was a good idea, I would listen and be open minded.

Later that evening my son presented his case to my husband and I.  He showed us a video of a respected pastor talking about this issue.  He made a lot of good points.  My son ended by showing us what he wanted to tattoo on his side.  It was a symbol that represented Romans 1:16.  He wanted his tattoo to be a conversation opener that would possibly point others to Christ.  His case went before the jury (my husband and I) and the verdict was unanimous. He was allowed to get a tattoo. 

I share this with you not to say look at me but to say look inside you.  Sometimes we hold on to things and rules so tightly that we don’t allow room for God to move.  I believe that there are a lot of issues that are unique to families and must be decided on what works for you. Always let God to direct your path, not the voice of the world.    Remember…He loves them even more than you! 

  Do you have your non-negotiable parenting rules?

Long Distance Grandma

If I had the power to make wishes come true, I would wish that all of my family lived nearby.  I would wish that I could see the precious face above more.  Until that day, I have to be creative and do whatever is necessary to be the best long distance grandma possible.  I feel blessed that this little cutie patootie is only 4 hours away and easy to make a weekend visit. I am also grateful for technology and the ability to see her smile and hear her cue anytime of the day….but sometimes that all seems a too distant.   

One day my daughter was sharing with me how much Emma loved being read to.  Even at a young age, she was intrigued with the pictures and loved hearing her momma’s voice.  God then gave me a creative idea.  A way that those that loved her across the miles could be part of Emma's special reading time and share in her development.  I went to my favorite shopping place...a yard sale...and purchased a set of books.  I decided that I would video myself and others reading to her.  We would then email her mom a link to the video and send the books in the mail.  I didn’t want to keep this to myself, so I recruited my mom, Emma’s great grandma, to do the inaugural video.
 
My mom is more than just an amazing storyteller.  She is 75 years old and still works with kindergarten students.  She has a heart for the underdog and is a 17 year breast cancer survivor .  Enjoy an excerpt from one of the videos.

 

 

God Is Still In The Miracle Business!

I don't know about you, but I love hearing inspirational stories that can only be attributed to God.  What is even more amazing is when you are able to see the story firsthand and see God move in ways that leave you speechless.

Recently a young mom and her 23 month old son moved into ACCESS Homeless Shelter.  I will call him "Joey".  Joey's infectious smile and charming ways quickly touched the hearts of the staff.  He is not your average toddler.  As a small infant, this precious boy became a victim of shaken baby syndrome.  Due to this experience, he is neurologically delayed and it is very noticeable in his movement. 

When Joey and his mom came to the shelter he was unable to walk.  He would scoot across the floor with his arms and legs similar to an infant.  Progress was being made before coming to the shelter but a setback came due to his family's changing circumstances.  Joey began to spend two hours in the playroom each morning while his mom was in class.  A loving caregiver  began working with Joey.  While holding him with two hands, Joey tightly gripped this dear women and began to take a few wobbly steps.  As he became stronger, she loosened her grip and Joey was able to walk while only holding on to two of her fingers.  Eventually it was only one finger and then one day....JOEY WALKED BY HIMSELF!!!!

I remember that day so clearly.  Several of us were beginning to experience social service burnout and needed this miracle.  We needed this reminder that lives can be changed if we just walk alongside each other.

As I think back on this miracle, I am reminded of God and His plan for us.  He lifts us up out of our despair, troubles and storms. He walks beside us and meets us where we are.  At times the storm is so intense that our grip is firm and strong.

When I arrived at work yesterday, I was tired and worn but then I saw Joey!  Thanks be to God!

As I reflect on Joey's transformation,  God reminds me of another season that I will be experiencing soon.  As  I prepare my heart to send two of our children off to college and to have a completely empty nest in two years my momma's heart is heavy.  I quickly remember the visual of my children going from crawling to stumbling and to eventually walking on their own.  At first their grip on my hand was tight and began to loosen as their confidence increased.  My job is to now watch them not only walk but to run to their dreams, goals and God- instructed future.  As their grip on my hand loosens... my grip on the hand of God's tightens. 

Preschool, High School, College...Oh My!

Ten years ago, this summer,  I was preparing to send my oldest child off to college.  I remember waking up one morning and realizing that in less than three months she would be on her own and no longer under my roof.  I began to bombard myself with many questions and doubts. Did I teach her everything she needed to know?  What if she never calls?  What if she doesn't know the difference between cotton and delicates?    I began to worry that  I was not done parenting her and worried that she wasn't ready to leave home.  The only person that wasn't ready...was me.   Six years later I found myself in the same situation as we prepared to send another daughter to college.  Same questions and fears flooded my mind. 

Two more years have gone by and I find myself searching again for dorm bedding, storage bins and desk lamps as child #3 prepares for college.  It is always a bittersweet time watching each one prepare to spread their wings and leave home.  As I prepare for the next few months, God continues to remind me that He loves each one of my children more than I can imagine and He is in control.  I am also reminded of some great advice that has been given to me over the years that may serve other moms preparing to send their graduate off to college.

1)  Set communication boundaries with your child.  As much as we yearn to hear their sweet voice each day, it may be an unrealistic expectation.  Talk about an appropriate amount of time to speak by phone and set up a scheduled time. Use technology.  A quick text is a quick and less intrusive way to say "I love you".  It will also be on their phone and available to see when times are hard.

2)  Even though our hearts will break the day you drop them off at college try to keep your emotions intact.  ( My tears flowed on the ride home) It is good that our children see how much we miss them but can also be hard for them to see a sad mom.

3)  Realize that as moms we have done our job.  We aren't just raising children, but we are raising future adults.  This is why God has entrusted them to us.  To love them...to teach them...to send them out.

4)  Don't assume that your college experience will be their experience. 

5)  Throw away....burn...tear up the GUILT card.   When your child calls home, don't make them feel guilty that they left home.  BE POSITIVE.

6)  Trust them

7)  This is your time to LEAN.  Lean on God, lean on your spouse and lean on someone that has walked this journey before.  I have a dear woman in my life that had sent several children to college before me.  She was and still is a constant support and mentor to me as I navigate new waters.

8)  Don't smother the remaining siblings. It's not their fault that they are still at home.

9)   Let go and Let God! Give it to Him!

Lastly, take it from a mom that has done this three times and will do it again in two years...they will call home.

Give Yourself Away!

I am currently in a season of decluttering my home and it feels great.   I am embarrassed to say that on one recent occasion, I gave away the following:

17 pairs of shoes
32 balls
34 tops

Who has 34 extra tops?  Me!

It feels good to simply, but it also feels convicting to have so much that I don't need.  One of the things that I have learned while working at ACCESS Homeless Shelter is how little one needs.  When a woman comes to the shelter she is only able to bring what she can fit in one large garbage bag.  When I walk by the shelter intake area and see a garbage bag, I often ask myself "what would be in my bag." What would I consider a need and what would be a want?

If my downsizing continues, I will soon have nothing else to tangibly give away but the giving can continue.  I will always have myself to giveaway.  There will always be an opportunity to be kind, to be merciful, to be gracious.  Opportunities will always exist to be a good listener, an available friend or a shoulder to lean on.

A few weeks ago, everyone in our congregation was given $5 with the purpose of paying it forward.  I tucked my $5 under my car visor and prayerfully asked God to show me where to give.  I began hearing stories of how other people in our church used the $5 and I felt left out that mine was still unused.  I was on the verge of putting the $5 back into the offering plate if an opportunity did not present itself soon.  One day, as I was driving to work, I was stopped in traffic when a man suddenly appeared by my window.  I was startled at first and a little scared.  I rolled down my window and he gently asked if I had anything to give.  In my haste and fear I uttered the words "I have nothing to give you today."  As I rolled up my window, God QUICKLY reminded me of the $5 under my visor.  I did have something to give.  I knew what I had to do even if it meant being late for work.  I turned my car around and gave the gentleman the $5.  He graciously thanked me profusely and asked if I would pray for him.  He told me that his name is Charles and he is desperately wanting to get back on his feet.  He was once a chef and was looking to get back into the food service industry.  I told him that I would pray for him and drove away.

I am grateful that God prompted me to go back and give.  I am thankful that God always provides a way for us to be his hands and feet and to give ourselves away!


Be blessed and be a giver!


Joy

Fashion Treasure Hunting

 

 

I love the month of May.  Spring has arrived, summer is around the corner and it is officially yard sale season! My minivan stops at all garage, yard and estate sales.  Our home is decorated with treasures that were found in the most unexpected places.  I hope to use this blog to share with you my finds and inspire you to go on a search of your own.  This post will focus on fashion.

 

 



 Once a month, a professional stylist comes to ACCESS Homeless Shelter and styles the women for future job interviews.  We spend the morning shopping for clothing at a huge thrift store.  I have the privilege of tagging along on this trip and receiving professional fashion advice myself.

 

 

 

 

 The above outfit is what I wore to the Mom Squad spring luncheon.  The entire outfit, including the necklace and belt cost less than $15.

Looking forward to wearing the above ensemble to work this summer.   Total cost: $7 (top is Ralph Lauren)

 

My son graduates from high school on Sunday.  This proud momma will be wearing the above tunic top and leggings.  Total cost: $20 (tunic, leggings and necklace)

 When I pack for our annual beach vacation in two weeks, this brand new BCBG dress will be in my suitcase.  This will look cute with blinged out flip flops.  cost: $6

 

 

As I prepare for a busy speaking season, I find that it is less stressful to pre-plan my wardrobe.  The above top will be something that I plan to wear for evening events.  Cost: $4

 

 

Do you treasure hunt at yard sales! If so... show me your treasures.

 

Happy hunting!!!

 

 

Joy





She's Here!

She’s here!  My first grandchild entered the world on April 17^th.  I am blessed to be in Indiana this week spending  time with this precious child.  At times, I find myself just staring at her while she sleeps, while she eats, while she cues and other normal occurrances for a newborn. Everything she does is spectacular and worthy of my attention.  I can’t help but see so many parallels to how I see her and how Christ sees us.

 

The picture above is of my mom anxiously waiting the news of Emma’s birth.  Her first great grandchild is about to be born.  Eight of us sat in the waiting room excited for the big news that she had arrived.  As Christians, we yearn for the day that Christ returns.  We don’t know the exact time, but we find ourselves waiting and preparing for this blessed event.

   

When I look at Emma, I see someone that could never do anything to make me stop loving her.  There will come a time when she will make mistakes and probably someday do something that disappoints, but nothing could ever make me love her any less.  This has to be the way Jesus sees us.  He loves us with an everlasting love that is unconditional.

 Before her arrival, Emma was showered with gifts.  In celebration of her arrival, many people friends and family members blessed Emma with clothes, toys, gift cards, etc.  God wants to bless us.  Scripture says:

 "For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. "  Psalm 84:11

Lastly...it is fun to see Emma discover new things as she grows.  She spent over an hour today making a special noise.  It wasn't a cry or a cue but a distinct new sound from this newborn.  It was as if she had discovered her ability to make noise...as if she had found her voice.  As she goes from being a newborn...to an infant...to a toddler, etc. Emma will discover things each day that we take for granted.  When is the last time you and I looked around at the familiar and routine and gave God thanks and praise? 

I look forward to seeing God more and more through  Emma.

Be blessed...

Joy

 

 

 

Mr. Chicken feeds the Mom Squad

  

If breakfast is the most meal of the day, then the 95.5 The Fish Mom Squad  made a  great choice last week.  Locally owned Mr. Chicken treated us to delicious food and shared information about new ideas and menu options.  As a mom, it was encouraging to hear that they use high grade chicken that is never frozen and are loyal to local farmers.   Mr. Chicken has an amazing passion for serving the marginalized in  Northeast Ohio and especially those that experience a lack of food and nutrition.  They have committed to donating $250.000  to this cause.

What a pleasure it was to meet Dan Feldman and Christine McManus from Mr. Chicken.  They shared with the group the history and mission of the business which includes a 47 year legacy.

Not only were we treated to a delicious meal, we left with what every mom loves...COUPONS!

Whether you are looking for a quick dinner or a caterer for a large event...give Mr. Chicken a call.  Tell them the Mom Squad sent you!



Joy

Raising A Creative!

I remember when Austin was in elementary school and he asked if he could take guitar lessons. Wanting to be supportive, we agreed and purchased him his first guitar.  We thought this would just be a phase like his wanting to play trumpet, soccer, basketball and other childhood adventures.  We were wrong...he loved playing guitar.  We knew it was more then a phase when he spent hours playing the guitar in his room.  In six grade he formed his first band called "Little Rock 4".  They played at birthday parties and knew they made it big when as 7th graders they were asked to play at the six grade dance.

Fast forward five years and the guitar is still in his arms.  We soon realized that we were raising a "creative." This was something new to my husband and me.  Our other children had different interests such as sports and orchestra but never saw either as a potential career choice.  As Austin began to speak of making music his vocation, I began to pray that God would show us how to parent, guide and nurture a creative. 

This is what we discovered:

1)  Watch what you do and say as parent...they may write a song about you someday. Ha ha
2)  Never use their passion as currency- If discipline is necessary, don't threaten to take away their instrument or opportunity.
3)  Always direct them to use their talent for God and not man.
4)  Performers experience applause.  Remind your creative that humility is important to God.  Someday the applause will end, but God's love remains.
5) Try not to attach their career choice with earning potential.  If God is leading your creative to study music...He will provide.
6) Nurture a creative environment with boundaries. Sleep is good.


Lastly...find ways to help open doors for them.  Recently, I was listening to 95.5 The Fish and heard an advertisement for Christian Jam.  They were looking for local acts to open for One Girl Nation and Unspoken.  I encouraged my son to apply and guess who is going to be on stage at the IX Center?

This guy....my son Austin. (the one in green)


http://youtu.be/k4gAhQwk3jg



Are you raising a creative?  Enjoy the journey!



Joy

Isaiah 64:8                           

But now, O LORD, You are our Father, We are the clay, and You our potter; And all of us are the work of Your hand.

Yep…I am going to be FIFTY!

In seven months, I will be entering the decade that brings one their AARP card, discounts at McDonalds and the dreaded hot flashes.  If you want to find me at mom squad events, I will be the one sitting under the air conditioning vent. When I was in my twenties I thought fifty seemed really old. I imagined myself wanting to pull the covers over my head and sleeping this birthday away.

As I approach this day, I can honestly say that I am not dreading this upcoming birthday, but actually look forward to see what this decade brings.   Today I began to compile a list of dreams for my fifties. Here are a few:

• I want to audition for community theatre
• I want to write another book
• I want to cook something that has an ingredient that I can’t pronounce  
• I want to climb a rock wall
• I want to try a really cute short haircut
• I want to try extreme couponing
• I want to take voice lessons

The list could go on and on but basically here is my prayer for my fifties, sixties and every decade that God allows me to be here on earth….

That I will  be a woman that always says YES to God!!!!!!

I could make a list that contains exotic travels, frivolous purchases and amazing experiences but nothing tops the journey that God has for His children.  I want to be available to His calling and mission and go where He sends me.  I just think it would be really great to go in a really cute short haircut.

So who wants to dream big with me?  I promise I won't make you eat my cooking or cut your hair...but you will have to climb the rock wall.

Dream big…

Joy