If there is any reason to celebrate life with your kids…I’m in! And February being Valentine’s I can’t help but pull out the fun. So last night we began celebrating the love in our house by making chocolate covered pretzels drizzled in red icing. YUM! We used both big and small pretzels (we used these for the big pretzels…)
And they sure do make for pretty treats–but they are harder for little teeth to bite into. Richard and I both agree (along with the kids) that the smaller pretzels are way better (and more addictive…so do the big ones if you are trying to watch your sweets;)
We grabbed white chocolate bark from the baking section at the store…
We used a double boiler to melt the chocolate which I highly suggest! The easiest way to melt chocolate…and fastest clean up too. While we waited for the water to boil, we made up a little recipe for our glaze (powdered sugar, a bit of melted butter, milk and red food coloring…yum! Being inventive in the kitchen with your kids is way fun!) Then we dipped… Glazed and sprinkled…And my sweet husband wanted me to point out my “KIDS DON’T PANIC” moment (thanks honey;). I had a “brilliant” idea of putting the red home-made icing glaze in a ziplock bag with one of my icing tips—and it BURST. Nice, huh. My hubby just wanted me to show you one of my many goofs in the kitchen lest you thought these crafts don’t have many bloopers with them too… The kids grabbed little kabob sticks and went to town tasting our glaze. Yum:). BUT even goof ups and messes are worth it if in the end you end up with yummies like these…
Happy Valentine’s! Here’s to 14 days of yummy lovin’ treats and fun little crafts…get your waxed paper and crayons ready for tomorrow’s kids craft!
One Year Bible Study – Exodus 1:1 – 4:17, 1 Chr 6:1-3)
Wow. SO much good stuff in today’s reading. Seriously, I could park it here all month just on today’s scripture verses and still need more time to talk about the meat here. Oh to condense into 2 cents…
The book of Exodus is about a DELIVERER. How I need one! How thankful I am that I have one! Put on your seatbelts as we travel from Eqypt to the Promised Land…
Exodus 1 I love how this first chapter starts out with a recap of “where we have come from” which adds so much more power as it reminds us of God’s faithfulness…and then WAM–after all of Joseph’s accomplishments through the hands of God…we get slammed with “eventually the new king knew nothing of Joseph or what he had done”. Instead, the king filled his people with fear that the Israelites would overpower them. One of my favorite verses has always been verse 12. The more they oppressed them, the more they grew. Makes me think of the song during the Civil Rights movement “We Shall Overcome”. Something powerful has always happened during oppression. We are strengthened. Believers put more of their faith and trust in God. Unbelievers turn desperately to Him. Pharoah should have known putting a heavy hand on them wasn’t a good idea.
And when that didn’t work, Pharoah decided to put the midwives Shiphrah and Puah in charge of killing the boy Hebrew babies at birth. BUT THEY FEARED GOD! So they didn’t kill them. They risked their OWN lives to save them. I love verse 20 “So God was good to the midwives” and verse 21 “he gave them families of their own”. Weren’t you so proud of Shiprah and Puah for doing the RIGHT thing, fearing the Lord and following Him over Pharoah!
But since Pharoah couldn’t trust the midwives to obey his orders–he gave orders to ALL people…throw all Hebrew boy babies in the Nile.
Exodus 2 If you didn’t have time to read, you can see Laney and Parker’s recap on this chapter by clicking here. We love felt stories:) The story that speaks most to my mommy heart in this chapter is how God made a way for Moses’s mother to be the one to nurse him, care for him and raise him. I love how his mom could see he was special from the beginning…but I have to wonder what this meant…I mean, don’t we all think our children are special! But what made her know and see that Moses was a bit different than the others?! Wouldn’t you love to know!
Wow–so much happens in chapter 2—Moses birth, being raised, going back to live with Pharoah’s daughter…and then Moses seeing one of his fellow Hebrew brothers being mistreated. He killed him and buried him. And I have to wonder how this story could have been different had he done the right thing. Could he have more easily persuaded Pharoah to let his people go? But instead, he was chased by Pharoah as he tried to kill him out of the kingdom. Moses fled to Midian which scholars believe to be Arbia—and some argue Ethiopia (you know I had to throw that in;). Moses married one of the priests of Midians daughters—which again many say was an Ethiopian woman. And we all know how BEAUTIFUL Ethiopians are:) Later, the king of Egypt died—yet the Israelites continued to be oppressed.
How do verses 23-25 make you feel? I have some thoughts—but I’d love for you to ponder these and share yourse.
Exodus 3-4:17 – Moses and the Burning BushIn this chapter, God appears to Moses and speaks to Him in a burning bush. Reading the Bible chronologically has more of a WOW to me here after being AWED by God’s greatness in Job. Job LONGED for the Lord to speak. ANYTHING. A word. Desperately. Then centuries later—here we have Moses, and the Lord appears to him out of no where. It wasn’t like Moses was desperately begging the Lord to appear. It wasn’t like Moses was living this life of purity and servanthood like Job. But the Lord appeared and gave him an order. And how did Moses respond?
Didn’t you want to squeal, “NO Moses!!! Just say yes! Just fall on your knees and say that you will do anything for I AM! Be awed that I AM chose you! Know that He will go with you! You need no more signs…you have Him talking to you in a burning bush! Isn’t that enough?! Job would have died for this! Oh please don’t speak again Moses…don’t you know who is talking to you?!”
But instead–Moses says, “I’m a nobody, I don’t know your name…and they won’t either, the elders won’t believe me, I’m not a good speaker, somebody else should do it.” And God became angry. In His anger He appointed Aaron to go with him, and we know that Aaron wasn’t always a help to him. Oh, how I wish Moses would just obey and trust the Lord. Oh, that I wouldn’t be quick to only look and shake my head at Moses but to also look in my heart and life. What are you telling me to do Lord that I am not bravely following and trusting you in? I want to follow you Lord.
THE WILL OF GOD WILL NEVER LEAD YOU WHERE THE SPIRIT CAN’T ENABLE YOU! Did you hear that?! WALK BY FAITH. He will lead, guide and empower you!
Let us not give up on the reading of His word! It is living and active…and it will change your heart and life!
I feel like such a Moses a lot of the time…self doubt creeps in and I forget how God so beautifully uses our weaknesses for His glory. Like Moses I’m so often afraid to speak (or write) because I fear I’m not eloquent enough but He says “I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” I pray He will do this for me…that He will equip me and give me the courage to step out for Him. As always…thank you for your words!
African Doughnuts (Recipe included at post’s bottom)
Last night, Rico Suave (aka Richard / the hubby) decided Koesisters (African doughnuts) were in order for dessert. YUM! The kids had fun helping, and I had fun eating them;).
Making the dough…
Waiting 30 minutes for it to rise…
Deep fryin’ the doughnuts…
Wa-la! Doughnuts…African Style!
Our Wait
Just wanted to give those of you walking alongside of us a little update on our adoption journey. Our wait continues:). We will receive our OFFICIAL new numbers this week (by Friday), but our listserv online does a pretty good job keeping up with unofficial numbers and I think we are 21 for boy and 28 for girl. This is turning into a close race since we started out 28 for boy and 45 for girl. All my letters to my “son” may have to be changed to “daughter” at this rate;).
For those of you on this same journey or who have been on it before, you know it’s a roller coaster of emotions. Doing our Bible study read through has been SO GOOD for me. So good! But I had to confess this weekend, I am struggled with patience. My heart is ready. I long for our baby. I’m ready to see his/her face and to work on a nursery. I know the Lord is preparing my heart–but I think my heart some times gets ahead of where it is supposed to be. Today I am saying, “Thy will be done” and learning more about waiting on Him. Sounds easy enough, right? I’m trying:). Such a process. Regardless, I’m still looking forward to those new official numbers on Friday.
ALSO–we received our fingerprint appointment for THIS Friday at 10am. Thank you for praying for expedition! Please continue to pray we will have our RESULTS back in time for a referral. Thank you!!! I feel the power of your prayers…and I’m so thankful for those of you walking with me through this, reading along and cheering us on…I truly feel “the great cloud of witnesses” supporting us!!! Praise be to God!
One Year Chronological Bible Study – Job Chapters 41-42
Chapter 41 In this chapter the Lord continues to make his point that if Job cannot even control one of God’s creatures–he can neither have control of justice, the world or his God. Although it sounds to me like he’s describing Puff the Magic Dragon, most commentaries say the Lord is describing a croc–and in when the sun is rising and the croc puffs the water out of his snout that it appears to look like fire. I can some times get too caught up on descriptions and wondering what is really being talked about rather than the point. And the point here again is the wonders of God’s creation and how He alone is God.
Chapter 42 – Job is restored! – Finally Job replied to God out of humility and with submission. And this is TRUE REPENTANCE. Charles Spurgeon said, “The door of repenance opens into the hall of joy.” This is true of Job, and truly the story for all of us as believers. Freedom and joy–no matter our situation–is found in repentance. Although we may deeply love the Lord…although we may serve Him daily…if we are not submitting to Him fully we are living for ourselves (in sin) and not living fully through Him.
Today–I confess I have become impatient. I get frustrated with the wait when there are 147,000,000 orphans in the world. The Lord has called us to this journey, and when I become frustrated–truthfully, it is His plan that I have become frustrated with. Oh Lord, who am I? Indeed I am your child, but I am nothing without you. Forgive me Lord. I submit to Your plan, Your way…and I wait upon You alone. I want to wait on Your will—and in this confession, submission and door of repentance…I begin to fill your floodgates of joy again. Why in the world would I not want to dance in this hall daily in submission to you and instead stand at the door frustrated wondering if I’m at the right place? My hands are going up once again Lord—I am waiting on You.
The beauty of living in God’s will is not only joy–but also blessing. And chapter 42 is definitely a “happily ever after” ending. We have to be careful not to interpret this chapter as every story will end perfectly. There was still pain in the process–and some stories will end with confusion, hurt feelings, and far from feelings of “happily ever after” with a beautiful font “The End” clearing off in the distance. No matter though what God allows to happen, hold tight to the truth when you cling to Him and submit to Him—it is HE WHO IS WRITING YOUR STORY. And it is HIM who will write the FINAL chapter! I don’t know what it is, but I can promise…that IT WILL BE WORTH IT. I promise…because He promises.
Hang in there friends…run the race with perserverance…and be patient as you wait on Him (I’m preachin’ to me here!). IT WILL BE WORTH IT!
***For those of you with a sweet tooth for both Africa and good treats…this recipe is for you…
Koesisters
6 tbsn warm water
3 tbsn granulated sugar
1 package active dry yeast (2 1/2 teaspoons)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsn salt
3 extra-large egg yolks
5 tbsn milk
2 tbsn unsalted butter
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
About 4 cups canola oil for deep frying
1. Combine water, granulated sugar and yeast in large bowl and set in warm place until yeast begins to bubble, 5-10 min.
2. Add the flour and salt to yeast and mix with electric mixer on low. Beat in egg yolks one at a time.
3. Combine milk and butter in small saucepan and heat until butter is melted. With mixer running, slowly pour the milk-butter mixture in dough until combined. (Richard said to add extra flour on this step…his trial was too soupy but a bit more flour did the trick:) Cover w/ damp cloth or plastic wrap and let sit in warm place until dough double in size (40 min.)
4. Punch the dough down and turn out onto floured surface. Cut into 20 pieces, roll each in a ball, and set on baking sheet. Set in warm place and let rise for 20 minutes.
5. While dough is rising, toss together brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom in bowl. Set aside.
6. Heat 3 inches of oil in deep pot at 350 degrees. Working in batches, add dough balls and fry, turning occasionally until all sides are golden (3-4 minutes). Remove and toss in spice mixture to coat.
7. ENJOY!
From: Discovery of a Continent: Foods, Flavors and Inspirations from Africa
I so know this feeling! Some days I am perfectly content in the waiting, but it is becoming more common for me to be struggling in this area. The closer we get, the harder it is (we think we’re at least #9 now for a boy).
We got our FDL this week and I am still praying that you get yours in plenty of time!
those doughnuts look so YUMMY! Thanks for the adoption update…how exciting that your numbers for a girl and boy are almost equal!
JonesEthiopia -January 31, 2010 - 11:45 am
Donuts look like fun. Will you post the recipe?
And, the waiting. It is so hard… but hang in there. I just posted on the listserv that one month of our wait, we moved 11 spots, another 1 or 2, we moved only 1 space. We still got our referral in about 5 months!
thanks so much for the words of encouragement – definitely needed them this week! We are days away (hopefully) from becoming a number and are just waiting for our ridiculously slow home study agency to finish their write up!
Sarah -January 31, 2010 - 8:02 pm
Those look yummy!!!
This part of the wait is so hard – and it is true, the closer you get to the top the harder it seems to get. (So much for encouragement!) So excited to see what little person the Lord has chosen for your family!
Praying for you as you wait!
Sarah
Tiffini -January 31, 2010 - 8:27 pm
Thanks for your sweet comment on my blog. I so enjoy hearing from others from the agency and on the same journey. I’m so glad that you just got your fingerprint appt. How long did you wait to get it? We are about ready to send in our I600A.
I’ll be following your story as well!
woohoo ! Life is moving closer to Africa….God is helping you move closer to your sweet baby…do not get discouraged. Have patience that comes from the Holy Spirit…keep your JOY flowing…we are waititng to hear the GOOD NEWS…and we are confident that God’s time will be PERFECT. I am off to a Bible Study to have a heap of women praying for your baby’s adoption in Ethiopia.
Thanks for posting. Can’t wait to try out the African doughnuts. Are you guys part of the Adopt Ethiopia GA group? If so hope to finally meet in person this weekend!
Some one asked me the other day how in the world I make time for my crafts. I just laughed—but the truth is…we all make time for SOMETHING in our day…and crafts are just my thing. My name is Andrea Young, and I confess—I get high on crafts. Always have…probably always will:). (How’s this for a confession—I used to make and sell bows to make money to spend at Arts and Crafts…this started in the 5th grade…it’s a long-standing addiction of mine;). The truth of it–is I just love to make something out of nothing. And crafts–even “adult crafts” like the magnet memo board I made today can be SO MUCH FUN to make with my kids! L-bird felt like such a big girl helping mommy. While P-man was at school, we hit Home Depot at 8:45am ready to start our day!
And I have to tell you a funny Home Depot story before I show you the memo board! Laney and Frank were both in the cart—Laney was “reading” her NIV Bible to Frank. She was explaining the Jesus’s birth and death to Frank and pointing to words in the Bible when an old man in a bright orange apron approached us.
Hey little lady, you readin’ a dictionary to your brother there?
No response from Laney. So I chirped in, “No sir, that’s the Bible she’s sharing…she’s a great big sister.”
Awkward silence.
Oh sorry. I thought it was a dictionary and she was showing him a conversion chart.
“Hmmmm…nope. Not a dictionary…but a conversion chart…now that’s pretty close;)”
He just gave me the strangest look…but I guess he was right on. A conversion chart it is;).
And then we marched right on to get our supplies—we already had everything I thought we’d need at home, so I just got 2 sheets of 2×4 foot sheet metal and a wall hanger. (Is it just me…or do other adopting mommies/”Paper Pregnant” people feel the need to tell the checkout people you are adopting when they say “you have your hands full!”. I just am so excited about our baby that I see that comment as an opportunity and just start babbling like a girl on cloud 9 about our 4th child to come! Ok…I just can’t stand not sharing! So…yes sir–I do have my hands full—but I CAN’T WAIT TO HAVE THEM MORE FULL! Can’t wait!) OK–Other things I used: hot glue gun, burlap fabric, decorate fabric, and silk ribbon w/ wire. Stopping my photog biz for awhile leaves me with some extra time to finally work on my “sacred space”…the one spot in our home that only mommy goes = The White Room. This is where I used to shoot natural light photography, but it’s about to be my happy place…my quiet time, hobby, prayer, reading and chill room. This is where I’m putting that piece of furniture we also finished up today…still a few finishing touches left there:) I wanted a memo board that was magnetic to easily put pictures one of friends to remind me to pray for them, verses to remember and just sweet little reminders that will make me smile. So…today we (Laney-bug and I) started and finished our project while Frankie baby took his morning nap and P-man was in school…
You could do this same thing with corkboard, but I don’t want to stick pins through my pictures—so I decided to buy sheet metal instead…
Hot glue does NOT stick to metal well—but it DOES stick to fabric well. SO–I quickly hotglued my decorative fabric around the edges first (front main fabric)…
This won’t hold very long–so I quickly cut my burlap fabric that will go on the back and on the edges as a frame. Hot glue around the edges and then press on your fabric backing so it will hold…
Then I simply folded the edges and made a border using hotglue again…
Momma had what she thought was a brilliant idea to hang with ribbon–which would mean putting 2 holes in sheet metal. What made momma think she could put holes in sheet metal? Laney was highly entertained (and maybe even a little scared!) as she watched momma unsuccessfully drill holes in sheet metal! What did finally work was a hammer and big nails! She wanted to try…but momma wasn’t about to hold the nail and let big girl at it! But she did take part in the pretty bow making. And then we hung ‘er on the wall…
My intentions are often good but my brain is often bad—so I’m hoping this little friend will help. I’ve got my two families up to pray for this week (if you sent me a Christmas card this year…this is what I’m doing with them…they are reminding me how much I love the families the Lord has put in my life and to love them through prayer!)…
I’ve got my mommy wise words reminders up…
And a few things like this that just make me smile…
I’m making ONE more to go in the same room that I want to put reminders, scripture memory and invitations on–I’ll put it on the other side of the dresser when the drawers are dry. Picture to come:). AND…maybe this little diddy will help that brain of mine that I lost a bit of with each of my pregnancies recharge a bit. And to do so with style;).
One Year Chronological Bible Study – Job Chapters 38, 39 & 40
After days…weeks it feels like…of walking with Job through his pain and defense…God speaks. And what does He say? I don’t know about you–but I’m a “warm and fuzzy believer”…I too often focus more on my love rather than holy fear of the Lord. I am reminded in today’s reading how BIG the Lord is—how incredibly small I am—and how I can and want to do nothing than sit silent and submit to the Father today. Wow. I, too, after today’s reading am silenced and speechless.
Chapter 38 -(NIV) God’s first words out of the storm, “Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge?” Ouch. The Living Bible translates it, “Why are you using your ignorance to deny my providence?” Double ouch. And then for the following two chapters the Lord doesn’t answer Job’s questions with explanations–but rather with REVELATION OF WHO HE IS. With HIMSELF.
Where were you when I created the world? Did you measure horizon to horizon? Did you form the earth…or were you even there when it was made? Have you been to the store houses of rain, snow and hail? Do you provide for the lioness or the birds of the sky? Can you oversee my creation? Are you stunned YET? The Lord goes on…
Chapter 39 The Lord starts out with the vast creations–and in this chapter He wows us by narrowing in on specifics of His incredible creation. For example–let’s take a close look at the Lord’s careful description of the ostrich in verses 39:13-18. The ostrich flaps her wings joyfully–yet her feathers don’t compare with the stork. God didn’t give her wisdom (she lays her eggs out in the sand unmindful that man might step on them and treats her young harshly as if they weren’t hers). BUT the Lord gave her the ability to outrun the horse and rider. Why did God make a bird that can’t fly but it has wings? All she can do is fan the air with them. Why did He make her unwise and unmindful of her young? Yet she has the awesomeness to outrun a horse! Just because. He is God.
Chapter 40And then the Almighty pauses. “Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses the God answer him.” And again, the Lord gives Job the chance to speak.
Job’s reply: “I am unworthy–how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth. I spoke once, but I have no answer–twice, but I will say no more.”
Job has been silenced. He doesn’t know what to say. He is beginning to get the picture. And now God can get done when He intends to get done. Oh that I will humble myself today before the Lord and be silenced in today’s reminder of the greatness of God! When will I realize that until I am silenced before the Almighty I am the one at fault for not experiencing the Lord in His splendor? When we are silenced, the Lord is able to work His plan through us. When we stop wasting life with “Why?! Why?! Why?!” and instead can fall upon our knees with our hands lifted high and say, “Holy Father–thy will be done…not mine Lord…THY WILL on earth as it is in heaven!” However—Job isn’t there yet. He is silenced–but not yet submission…so the Lord goes on…
God singles out a few creatures again. Can you subdue them? Hmmm…let’s just take the hippo and croc. Can you catch them. And even if you did–can you train them to be your pets? Can you get them to obey you? No? Well, if you can—then I’ll believe you can be the judge and demander of justice. Eeek. Ouch. I don’t know about you—but I feel Julia Roberts in “My Best Friend’s Wedding” here when she tells Michael: “I am pond scum. Lower actually. I am the fungus that feeds on pond scum.” Talk about a good dose of humilty. I told Richard this morning that this chapter makes me think of those “I Am Second” videos…only mine would have to say, “My name is Andrea and I am 9,867,756,564,345.” I get the point of those videos that God is first—but goodness, I sure don’t come close to being second after reading this chapter!
And tomorrow…it only gets better. How amazing is the Word of God?! And I thought I was along for a ride with our adoption…the Word is indeed living and active! Let us not give up on the reading of His Word! Be amazed today at His great creation. Stare at small things, examine them…how mighty is the Creator?! Praise His name for He is worthy to be praised! Let us say together, “I can’t explain Him. He is so GREAT. The only thing I am left to do is fall on my knees in worship. May the ‘why’s’ in my heart be gone…laid at the cross…and I follow you Lord! Take us from being silenced to being submissive. We desire to follow you oh Lord!” AMEN!
Trying to behold what God is saying – who He really is- and who we are in conjunction with that….is an idea that no matter how long I have been a Christian, no matter how long I pray, no matter how much I read the Scriptures……I am still in AWE. I don’t think that will ever change. What a huge reminder of that.
Another adorable craft! Love it and your cutie helper.
I just stand in awe of the readings and the thoughts that should always be in front of me…HE is God…all I will ever need.
Blessings,
Amy
Hahaha…okay I had a few laughs with the “My name is Andrea Young…and I get high off crafts.” and “My intentions are often good but my brain is often bad…” I can totally relate!!!
Heather -January 30, 2010 - 2:13 pm
I really enjoyed the reading this morning. One thing I wanted to share from my study Bible, is that in the notes it says, “The significant thing about these questions (the ones God was asking Job) is that Job cannot answer a single one! God was driving home the point that Job must let God be God, the sovereign and omnipotent Creator who answers to no one.” We need to let God be God. Because He just is.
Chapter 38-39: Woah! The Almighty is speaking now…and with POWER!
“Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words? Brace yourself, because I have some questions for you, and you must answer them.” (38:2-3)
That makes me shiver. And who said sarcasm was bad?
“But of course you know all this! For you were born before it was all created, and you are so very experienced!” (38:21)
LOL…now I know where my sense of humor came from.
God used these questions to show Job how little he knew about the universe, about creation, and about God. If Job couldn’t answer those questions, then how could he question God? We need to remember that our God is infinite, all-powerful, and has all authority. Our job is to trust him. And while we are waiting, we need to praise him.
Chapter 40: Job responds to the Lord that he is nothing. He has no answers. He has said too much. Foot-in-mouth…we’ve all done that before, haven’t we?
God doesn’t give Job an explanation to his suffering. He reminds him of his sovereignty. He reminds him of His power and majesty. It is only through God, that we can be saved.
It’s good to be reminded of God’s power and authority. Not just so that we fear him (although that is important). It reminds me of how capable He is. That seems like such a pathetic word in comparison to our God, but let me explain. Again, this is in relation to our adoption to me, but it can be related to many aspects of life. But specifically, this adoption process keeps reminding me who is in control. Although sometimes I am frustrated with losing any sense of control, I’m finding it comforting that it IS in God’s hands. This is too big for me to handle! It’s too big of a responsibility. Could you imagine if it was up to ME which child out there was to be my daughter!?! What if I chose the wrong one? Or the right child at the wrong time? I’m comforted to know that God has the perfect child chosen for our family, and that I don’t have to worry about it! Everything that happens (and yes, even the timing) is in God’s hands, and I know that He won’t give me more than I can handle! That sounds too generic…too cliché. But I can’t even describe this revelation I had while reading today’s scripture! God is capable of making that decision for our family because He already knows the outcome! He knows every little thing that’s going to happen! I can’t even put it into words. He’s AMAZING, let’s leave it at that! Let’s praise HIM while we are waiting!
Remember when I went to the furniture auction a few weeks ago? Ok…so if you don’t–we were stir crazy at my house with NOTHING to do…so we drove by a furniture auction. Richard circled the warehouse while I ran inside, got a number, won 6 dining room chairs ($30 each!) and this for 50 BUCKS! Okay, okay–granted I had NO place to put it…but no one else was bidding, and I thought you couldn’t go wrong with $50. Richard wasn’t amused. Boo. SO—yesterday, the kids and I sanded it… They thought the power sander was SO COOL. And then we painted it…two fabulous coats of Benjamin Moore (my favorite) paint. A very, very faint blue…almost white paint. It’s still drying…but after it’s all dry, lightly sanded and then waxed—I’ll put it back together and show ya where I chose to put it…and nope, not in a bedroom.
We also made a trip to the Family Christian Bookstore for the 2nd time this week. This visit was WAY more pleasant that our first one (where I locked my keys in the van and waited 2 hours for Mr.AAA to come break in my car for me. I will say Laney and Parker loved it because we have done ZERO tv, cartoons, etc for awhile and she got to see VeggieTales and they were GLUED to their tv…Frank however, was a different story). One today’s visit though we spotted this on the Valentine display… The reviews look really good too:)
One Year Chronological Bible Scripture: Job Chapters 35, 36 & 37
Chapter 35 – Elihu reminds Job of God’s Justice Everything Elihu said in this chapter is true–depending on how you interpret it. God’s CHARACTER is not changed whether or not we send. But I wouldn’t go as far as Elihu did in saying that God is not changed (or effected) by our sin. I think Elihu made a bit of a mistake in singling out this attribute as he failed to talk about God’s love and grace. Because God loves us so much–He hurts when we hurt…He is pained when we sin…He loves us as a father…and redeems sinners. AND the part Elihu left out is really the part that, I believe, Job needed to hear most. In all of these chapters, how I want a friend to just say, “Job, the Lord loves you deeply. I know it may not look like it–but I believe He loves you deeply.”
Oh that we would be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. I hear a bit of anger in Elihu, and very little love. How I want to speak more love and people to leave encouraged in the Lord rather than hurt and discouraged. Our tongues are very powerful, life-changing tools. May the words of your mouth be glorifying to the Lord today–All. Day. Long. Help us Lord…we need Your strength to make this possible.
Chapter 36 I have to say there are some points of Elihu’s in this chapter that I just don’t agree with. Boo to Elihu. “He does not let the wicked live”…I’m afraid He does. Not all wicked people are distroyed—and many righteous men are taken early. “If they listen and obey God they will be blessed with prosperity”…not always Elihu. BUT he does make some rather good points…I do agree that many times hard things happen to protect us (verses 16-21) and to keep us in His will.
Chapter 37 Are ya ready for Elihu to stop talking already?! Well, you aren’t the only one…even Elihu has to ask Job to pay attention in this chapter. A storm is a-brewin’ and Elihu paints a final picture of the Lord’s sovereignty. Elihu’s final words remind us that although there are many things that God does that we may not ever understand and the fact that we can’t understand God fully, that God is JUST and He has a purpose for those hardships. Job has longed for the answer to His…and guess what is coming up next?! FINALLY…THE LORD SPEAKS TO HIM! And can you REALLY wait until tomorrow to read it!? Is Job read?! Are you?!
Oh my goodness I love that piece! I bet you made it beautiful! I love doing that as well… so much. I wish I had more time for it now. I am not allowed to bring another piece of furniture into his house. There is no room! lol! I guess my next project will be the kitchen cabinets. 🙂
I peeked ahead a few chapters a couple of days ago and saw the heading The Lord Speaks and I’ve been anticipating it ever since:)!!!
Love the furniture!
Robin Zetterberg Salley -January 29, 2010 - 10:17 am
I admire you so much Andrea for not having the TV on in your house. We are far from that at our house, so I would love to pick your brain about how to keep a 3 year old entertained without the TV running. Love the dresser! We just painted a piece of furniture in our house a light blue. So pretty!
Hey girl its Mitzi Aylor from the bookout forum. Thanks so much for sharing your story with us. I read here as much as I can!!! I have been sharing your love with some of my other friends that are in the process of adoption…the encouragement is a blessing.
Anyway wanted to share with you another blog that I look at…I thought of it when I saw your auction piece. http://www.inthefunlane.com/
I woke up this morning…to find we were out of coffee filters. Me without coffee. Not good. This momma requires a few things to be recharged. Coffee. The word. And another cup of coffee. One of my kindred spirits, Shawnda, is the same way and I love that the first time she and her family came to stay with us in Hot-Lanta that she called to see if we were stocked up on coffee beans. Love it. I hear ya sister. So, my friends know I have to have my coffee. I have been known to knock on neighbors doors for coffee beans, sugar and milk…whichever I’m out of to make my morning cup when out of one of the three essentials! But never fear—without coffee filters, I pulled out the old faithful coffee press… And my sweet friends know I have to have my princess cup. I remind my husband often that I am one because I’m the daughter of the King! Yum…coffee out of the press—as it should be.
One Year Chronological Reading – Job Chapters 32-34
Good stuff today! So even if you aren’t reading with us…such good stuff here to take in!
Chapter 32 – Elihu is on the scene… This chapter introduces another perspective…another person to address Job. Elihu is among the crowd that has gathered—as as everyone stands silent (really speechless) after Job’s final speech and oath before God, Elihu has his opinion and cannot stand holding it in any longer. He says he was timid to speak at first because he is younger than the others, and although he does carry a bit of conceit–his intentions are good. To give himself credibility before saying his piece, Elihu gives four reasons what he has to say is worth hearing: 1) He is indignant 2) He is inspired 3) He is impartial 4) He is impelled. Elihu made it clear that what he had to say was from God—but go ahead and take note…because when God does appear on the scene very soon He ignores Elihu and everything that he had to say.
Chapter 33 – Elihu and his 2 cents – Although Job has already checked out of the debate, Elihu’s speech does offer some great insight into the purpose of suffering. Ole Elihu does argue that Job’s problems are a result of his sin (which we all know isn’t the case) but he also introduces another truth in this speech of hardship: to keep us FROM sin. And this is God’s grace (33:24).
This is great insight as later in the New Testament we will learn from Paul how God uses the thorn in his flesh to keep him close and from sin. Paul even learned to thank God for it (2 Cor. 12:7-10). None of us want a thorn in our flesh, to face hardship, to have something precious and dear to our hearts ripped away, to have a dark cloud over us, to have everything seem to go wrong…but we must remember it is not always because of sin. If you are in the Word, if you are close to the Lord and if you are a son/daughter of the Most High—it is most likely a gift from the Lord keeping you closer to Him—and FROM SIN.
P.T. Forsyth, a British theologian, once said “It is a greater thing to pray for pain’s conversion than its removal.” For Paul, what could have broken him down–instead BUILT HIM UP. While Job may feel he has had WAY TOO MANY THORNS (and I might agree) is doing quite well holding himself together considering the circumstances. Job after this speech because he is simply waiting for the Judge to appear. Some times, when things aren’t going our way—the world and those close to us will offer their opinions, their condolences…their 2 cents. Most will mean well, some may even be speaking from the Holy Spirit, but the ONLY One we must wait upon is HE…THE LORD!
Build us up Oh God! When hard things come–use them to draw us unto you. Be our Rock. Help us to stand strong with YOUR strength. Oh that we should not cry “WHY?” but instead “your will be done”…”to you be the glory”…”hold me tight”…”breath Your life in me”…”redeem this Lord for your glory!”
Chapter 34 – Elihu tries to explain and defend God in this chapter as he feels Job has spoken of God wrongly saying he is an unjust God. So, Elihu is simply trying to prove God is a just God here. He gives 2 arguements here: 1) If God is unjust, then He is not God and 2) If God were unjust, there could be no just government on earth. There was truth in what Elihu says here, only he chose to park on the subject of God’s justice and left out God’s love. Have you ever been to a church that preaches more on God’s judgement (scare ya into heaven sermons)? Get your ticket to heaven right here! But our faith is not a safety net—and I don’t want my children to just get God’s judgement—more than anything I want them to know God’s LOVE.
If the Lord doesn’t take away your burden, remember He will give you the strength to carry it–and even a song to sing through it! Come to Him today–whatever your burden and ask Him to be your song as you continue the race He has put before you to run…
Then we dipped…
Glazed and sprinkled…
And my sweet husband wanted me to point out my “KIDS DON’T PANIC” moment (thanks honey;). I had a “brilliant” idea of putting the red home-made icing glaze in a ziplock bag with one of my icing tips—and it BURST. Nice, huh. My hubby just wanted me to show you one of my many goofs in the kitchen lest you thought these crafts don’t have many bloopers with them too…
The kids grabbed little kabob sticks and went to town tasting our glaze. Yum:). BUT even goof ups and messes are worth it if in the end you end up with yummies like these…
by admin
I feel like such a Moses a lot of the time…self doubt creeps in and I forget how God so beautifully uses our weaknesses for His glory. Like Moses I’m so often afraid to speak (or write) because I fear I’m not eloquent enough but He says “I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” I pray He will do this for me…that He will equip me and give me the courage to step out for Him. As always…thank you for your words!