What's so Bad about Complaceny?

 "Instead of growing, we become stagnant.  And, when we cease to grow, we affect those around us, especially our children."

Complacency.  What's so wrong with the being self-satisfied?  We're supposed to be content, so that's kind of the same thing, right?  I'm learning more and more that there is a big danger with being complacent with life.  Contentment is a whole different word, but we may be tempted to confuse the two, so we can justify our complacent attitude.  

The Simple Things

 "As human beings, we cherish the little things.  Big events are grand, and if we're blessed enough to experience some, we should be grateful.  But at the end of the day, what we all want and need...is a full life, one dripping with meaning and richness."

-Tsh Oxenreider

On planning a family event, I usually spend time trying to think of something that will be super special and memorable for our children. I research family-fun events that are near us, and try to talk my husband into my new-found idea. But, with toddler-aged children, sometimes the ideas don’t go over so well.  A temper-tantrum or a blow-out diaper can quickly end all the fun!  I’ve come to realize that, at this stage in life, sometimes the simple things are the most fun for my children.  This past week my husband was watering the plants, and our three year old wanted to “help.”  He had an absolute blast!  His younger brother was quick to follow behind him, as they sprayed the plants and each other too.  Instead of putting a lot of time and effort into planning a day out and then getting frustrated when it doesn’t turn out as expected, I’m learning to enjoy the simple things.  All my children really want right now is a mom and a dad who are ready to give them their undivided attention. Here are some simple ideas that your kids just may love more than a day out. But, don’t miss the most important part—you have to participate too!

Putting God in a Box

Sometimes it feels like there is just not enough time to get everything done.  When you have a house-full of people who constantly needs you, how do you make time for God each day?

I remember waking up early one morning, craving some alone time with God.  I knew I needed this time to spend reading His Word so that I could make it through the day.  I sat down in my chair and opened up my Bible.  But, before I could even start reading, I heard the pitter-patter of little feet above my head.  A few seconds later, our toddler-aged son was at the bottom of the stairs, ready to begin the day.  Frustrated and annoyed, I remember thinking: “God, you know I need this time…why couldn’t I just have a few minutes alone with You?” So, instead of feeling refreshed and motivated, I felt like I had just missed my time with God for the day.

My First Post!

"I have come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element.  It is my personal approach that creates the climate.  It is my daily mood that makes the weather.  I possess tremendous power to make life miserable or joyous." 

-Johann Wolfgang van Goethe

I'm starting this blog for myself, mostly for accountability.  It's not always easy to follow Christ.  Most of the time, I'd rather do what I want to do instead of taking the time to think about what Christ would have me do.  After I became a wife and mother, I have seen that it only gets harder.  Now, I don't just have my own spiritual life to worry about...I am working hard to set a good example for my children and teach them that Christ needs to be first in their lives.  Amidst this important task, I also want to be an encouragement to my husband.  I am realizing more and more that my attitude shapes the lives of those around me in so many ways.  If I'm not in a good mood, our family pays the price.  Hence the reason for this blog:  I want to choose to live for Christ each day.  I want to make the most of the opportunities He has given me and make an impact on the lives He's entrusted in my care.  So, I will be writing about some of the things I am learning in this season of my life...how I am growing in Christ as a wife, mother, friend, etc. May we all learn to grow in Him and be content with the gifts He has given us, making the most of the opportunities that come our way.

"Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do."  Ephesians 5:16-17