Her worth is far above rubies...

Justice...

2011-06-01T04:27:00.000-07:00

The work of justice is not simply the work of politicians and governments, nor is it the exclusive domain of activists and humanitarians: it is a vital project to which we are ALL summoned. To paraphrase the prophet Micah, if you want to know what God really requires of all humanity, start with doing justice. Brian McLaren

"...He's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It's quite simple: do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don't take yourself too seriously - take God seriously..." Micah 6:8 [The Message]

Spectacular...

2011-05-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

"the works of the Lord are great, studied by all who have pleasure in them" psalm 111:2

These shots were taken outside our house just the other morning... it's the tiny things you would otherwise miss on warmer mornings than these, but the dew droplets forming on the spiders webs in our front yard was something else. Take a look.

Today...

2011-05-31T05:56:00.001-07:00

Today I reminded myself that I was going to expect the miraculous, and live in an atmosphere of faith at home with my little ones.

While I write this there's (yet) been no great white lights, no booming word from the skies, but just simple, everyday tiny miracles, the type that cement your heart to another...

A very sleepy little soul - first shot in the morning :)

Ah, my 4 year old has discovered sticky notes. This says 'Eve'. Stuck to the baby.

Precious little bites of handwritten love from my 4yo to mummy, stuck to the fridge door

A lovely momento from this morning's coffee date with a beautiful friend: a wristband with 'food + family + friends' on the side, delivered on the side of my latte glass! Brilliant and poignant!

What were your lovely heart memories, those tiny miracles as part of your day today?

Growth...

2011-05-30T04:58:00.000-07:00

Get an appetite for challenges, because the answer often is in the problem…

I'm coming out of this...

2011-02-03T17:41:00.000-08:00

Today has been a great day. My husband does kinder drop off for my 4yo so I can grab some time with my two little ones, 2 and 6 months.

A friend was over and we shared an amazing time of prayer at the kitchen bench. We talked of the great things of God in our lives and where He is drawing us into: a place of greater love, greater fellowship, greater influence. Our God is ever expanding us, not reducing us. It was so encouraging to spend time with another faithful woman of God, imagining the possibilities of what He can do through the power of one surrendered life.

And then I found this : psalm 68:8 says

"He (God) BRINGS OUT the bound into prosperity".

I have been so bound. Bound by smallness in thinking, relationships, love and grace. But His promise is that He will lead us out of that and give us riches in exchange.. Riches in relationships, strength, faith, thinking, growth, love... To reduce riches to just finances is to reduce our thinking of what good gifts God has for us.

Im coming out of a season of being bound to being prosperous. But it's never alone. Who's joining me?

Manner of life

2010-11-11T01:58:00.001-08:00

"...But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith..."

2 Tim 3:10

As i was reading through this scripture the phrase "Manner of life" struck me. I'm currently teaching my 4yo the gentle art of table etiquette - simple manners, if you please - and its not easy. Its repetitive, sometimes frustrating, but in the end, I'm hoping at least, that she will have an appreciation, and act upon, common courtesy and manners at the dinner table.

Paul is imploring Timothy to continue the very work that he himself had given his best years for, his absolute all towards; advancing the message of christ in his generation, to bless the next. I could imagine this would have been an incredibly emotionally charged letter, as Paul was basically saying goodbye towards the end of his life.

Life. Not just at the dinner table. Not just on sunday. Not just at small group. Not just when its convenient.

Life. How you act, think, respond, your priorities, your focus. How you relate. Your character. Your pain. Your good days and your bad.

Woman of God, are you part of regular fellowship with likeminded believers? Are you putting your life out there for others to follow? Are you seeking another woman who's manner of life you attain to follow? If not, ask the lord to provide someone to mentor you or simply ask questions of.

Woman of God, you and I are called to extend love to others that is sacrificial, that will require involvement, pain and long-suffering, expand our experiences with others so God can shape, change and mould us all into the amazing, strong women we are called to be.

True discipleship, the act of loving sacrificially and serving one another, is where the church is at her beautiful best.

What we had for dinner tonight...

2010-08-24T06:16:00.000-07:00

Thai chicken curry

SERVES 4 PREPARATION TIME 20 mins COOKING TIME 20 mins

Ingredients

1 tbsp plain flour

800g chicken breast fillets, cut into 2cm cubes

2 tbsp canola oil

6 spring onions, finely sliced

150g button mushrooms, sliced

4 tbsp Ayam Brand Thai green curry paste

400ml can coconut cream

½ cup frozen peas

Grated rind and juice of 1 lime

2 cups Basmati Rice

Garlic Pappadums

Naan Bread

Method

1. Season the flour with salt and pepper. Toss chicken pieces in the seasoned flour, then shake off excess.

2. Heat oil in a large frypan over high heat. Cook the chicken in batches, for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown on all sides. Add spring onions and mushrooms and cook for 1 minute.

3. Add the curry paste and cook, stirring, for 1 minute, then add the coconut cream, peas, lime juice and rind. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Serve with Basmati Rice, Naan Bread and Pappadams.

Note This recipe did specify 2 kaffir lime leaves (can be found at Safeway) as well as 2 tbsp fresh chopped coriander (added step 3 with other ingredients, then removed once simmered for 5 mins), which I did not include when I made the dish. And it was also originally a pie dish, however when it was made, we deemed it too spicy for a pie and served it with freshly made rice, pappadams and naan bread. Yum!!!

2010-08-18T04:48:00.001-07:00

Proverbs 12:18 (New International Version)

¹⁸ Reckless words pierce like a sword,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Cultivating Home: My unscientific way of reading the Bible

2010-08-15T05:44:00.000-07:00

A wonderful and thought-provoking post on reading the bible for all of us stay at home mothers, and finding daily inspiration, motivation and encouragement in doing so, for ourselves, our children and families. Beautifully written.

Cultivating Home: My unscientific way of reading the Bible: "If you are a sinner, like me, relying on our own guidance to get us through each day is not an pleasant option. God's Word to me is so much. I don't pick up my Bible in the quiet of each morning because of guilt or unseen obligation but because it is life and breath of my day. Keeping God's words settled in my mind and heart from the start of each day is what gives me strength as a mother. I think this is what people sense when they comment to me that I 'must have a special gift to raise children'. It's no special, only for Hannah thing, its the life and breath and sustenance available to any believer or unbeliever for what God has called you to do - and so I find myself gritting my teeth to bare comments like that one. Meditating, or keeping near in my mind, the words of strength and life of God is such an empowering, peace bringing thing."

Why I love baking...

2010-08-14T05:42:00.000-07:00

freshly baked banana and chocolate, chocolate brownie, banana and apple muffins

There's something so comforting in the knowledge of tradition when it comes to family. I love the ritual of eating together - as family, with friends, new and old. I love the way the simple act of breaking bread together seals friendships, allows relaxation and quality time with loved ones.

While my children are small my desire is to impart into their lives this love for creating, cooking and sharing which will serve them well in the years to come - as they grow, marry and
one day- run households of their own. I also like to think of our family dinner times as periods of gentle instruction in the arts of manners and conversation, of being social.

As I look back through my family history I am beginning to discover a pattern - a long line of women who enjoyed, delighted and excelled on the fine art of hospitality; from running guest houses to lengthy after-church luncheons on Saturday afternoons. They lived in a world where strangers were welcomed, new friends were made over the table in the course of a meal. Nowadays, in our modern society we are far richer than we've ever been, yet relationally we've become more umpoverished than ever, as we hide behind our tall fences and four walls - even from our next door neighbours.

freshly baked cinnamon donuts for brunch

Well, I'm on a mission ; to bring back the simple notion of having an open heart, open home and bustling kitchen, to serve family, friends and neighbours. Where loved ones gather in anticipation of a delicious and nourishing meal, bonding, discovering, relaxing and enjoying time together.

Will you join me?

A Wise Women Builds Her Home: Gentleness of Voice

2010-08-14T05:15:00.000-07:00

A Wise Women Builds Her Home: Gentleness of Voice: "It’s not so much what you say As the manner in which you say it; It’s not so much the language you use As the tone in which you convey..."

2010-06-30T06:08:00.000-07:00

A great new blog I found today...

http://melb-opshopping.blogspot.com/

Today's moment...

2010-04-28T05:48:00.000-07:00

this is what awaited me when I turned around in my kitchen this morning, whilst preparing breakfast for the family... care of my (nearly) two year old.

Two favorite teddies, poked neatly into the oven door handle. It made me chuckle.

What brought a smile to your face today?

Dear Amelia...

2010-04-24T06:15:00.001-07:00

Thank you.

For beaming smiles and tight hugs in the mornings...

For teaching me that a giggle can brighten up the darkest of days...

For making me so much more capable and able to do what I thought I never could...

You are so precious to us; to all of us. Your new words and noises, cuddles and giggles, sloppy kisses and golden curls. We love you for all that you are, and all that you make our little family.

"We will not hide them from their children,

Telling to the generation to come the praises of the LORD,
And His strength and His wonderful works that He has done." Psalm 78:4

Baking...

2010-04-24T05:23:00.000-07:00

Last week while hubby was away for work, I indulged in trying a couple of new recipes from the Beechworth Bakery cookbook - one being the Vanilla Slice.

Custard poured, pastry layer on top...

Held it's shape quite nicely for a first attempt!

Dusted with icing sugar...

Ready to serve!

And, it wasn't all that difficult. I'll add the recipe later, if you like!

The best thing was I had a friend pop over for a cuppa so we were able to enjoy it together...

What's your latest addition to your cookbook?

Family and home...

2010-04-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Great blogs I subscribe to:

From Resurgence Blog

How I Pastor my family

From the lovely Cultivating Home blog

What is homemaking, really?

Do you have a homemaking schedule?

From Preschoolers and Peace blog

How can Sunday be restful with little ones?

Breakfast ideas

So you thought you could do it all...?

How can I help someone else when I have so much to do at home?

The artful parent

Authentic art for preschoolers

There's some great wisdom and resources out there for us mummies at home!

Cooking...

2010-04-19T04:01:00.000-07:00

I'm reading a great book from the library today.

"More secrets of the Beechworth Bakery" by Tom O'Toole.

Here's some great tips from his book:

- Don't make grumpy food.

Great chefs love their job. If you're cooking and don't really enjoy it, it shows in the product because the love is not there. Nobody wants to eat grumpy food.

If you think 'I'm baking my guts out for the next three bloody hours (his phrase, not mine)! and I bet no one says thanks', you're already telling yourself to be resentful. There's no use getting upset about the time you are going to spend baking the meal, learn to love cooking.

Put on a CD and enjoy yourself.

Make it a family thing - involve your children in the baking. Give them some dough and say 'roll out the pizza' or 'roll out the foccacia'. Above all, cooking is never a selfish occupation, you're doing it for others as well as yourself.

You make a lot of people happy when you do a good job.

- Adopt and adapt

Getting a recipe right takes a bit of hard work. I say, 'give it seven times before you give it away'.

(Seven times! my philosophy is bake/cook something three times, and I thought that was safe territory - might have to bump it up a few more before unleashing my baking and cooking on unsuspecting friends and family!)

Most of us get it right by then. You have to keep persevering and persevering. Most of the time, if it's not working, it's the little things that you're doing wrong. the little things are always the big things.

I'm not a great cook, but I love to expand my reportoire... and I'm looking forward to having a go at some of the sweet delicacies in this book!

Thankful, thankful, thankful...

2010-04-08T22:07:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm thankful for...

-friendships that are enduring, stimulating and challenging.

- camomile tea (or the recent discovery thereof - very relaxing)! I've normally been a two very strong coffees a day girl, but with my third pregnancy in full swing, have noticed my body not liking so much caffeine all of a sudden.

- bargains in thrift shops - like today's dainty little glass cake stand...

- heart's dreams and desires that do have a purpose and will be fulfilled

- homemade muffins

- other inspiring women (see cultivating home, charming the birds from the trees)

What are the things in your life that you are thankful for today?

Autumn...

2010-04-08T21:58:00.000-07:00

Autumn's arrived not so long ago, and it's lovely to still have a few nice sunshiny days before the rain appears...

Taking a stroll through the village...

Discovering acorns down by the lake...

This was definately one of the last of the wattles this season...

Wildflowers...

family.

2010-04-08T21:38:00.000-07:00

God sets the solitary in families;

He brings out those who are bound into prosperity.

Psalm 68:6

Today I'm thankful that my children bring such joy to my heart. My precious, beloved and

cherished Trinity Claire and Amelia Jane. What wonderful teachers you are; an amazing glimpse into God's own heart for us all as His own dear children.

Inspiring women...

2010-04-06T20:43:00.001-07:00

Maria Woodworth-Etter

It didn't make sense when God called Maria Woodworth-Etter (1844-1924) to evangelize the lost at the young age of 13. First, she was a woman, living in an era when women were not allowed to vote, much less preach. The thought of a single woman serving in the ministry was unheard of. In addition, Maria had no formal Christian schooling. She often prayed, "Lord, I can't preach, I don't know what to say, and I don't have any education".

Even with all these strikes against her, Maria expected a life of "normal" Christian service when she married PH Woodworth. Tragedy struck the family, but Maria did not become bitter; and she continued to feel God's call on her life. In a vision, she saw fields of grain swaying in the wind. She began to preach, and she watched the grains of wheat fall like sheaves. She believed Jesus told her that just as the sheaves fell, people would fall as the words of the Spirit left her mouth.

In obedience, Maria gathered a small crowd relatives and as she opened her mouth, they began to weep and fall on the floor. Word quickly spread that the hand of God was on her, and in a short time, she had held nine revivals, preached two hundred sermons and started two churches.

At 40, Maria was at the forefront of the Pentecostal Movement. But with her prominence came a bombardment of criticism and attack. Doctors attended her meetings, intent on proving her healings fake. Hired thugs came to disrupt the services. Mentally disturbed individuals were planted to suggest that Maria drove people to insanity. Even fellow ministers publicly rebuked her. Through all of these setbacks, Maria rarely defended herself, but continued to trust God.

In a time when the mainstream church sat rigid in its pews, Maria brought signs, wonders, healings and an exuberant life. Thousands were converted to Christ. She broke through religious walls that prevented women from fulfilling their destiny in God and as a result, impacted an entire nation.

See more on Maria Woodworth-Etter...

From Women of Destiny bible, p 1031

Yea...

2010-04-06T05:18:00.001-07:00

Beautiful countryside, perfect weather... A trip to the local gallery, cut lunch in the sunshine at a local park, discovering a little more of a lovely part of our world.

Cultivating the heart of my home...

2010-04-06T04:39:00.000-07:00

What a day I've had. Really. I think it's a combination of having a lovely - but huge - four day easter weekend with so much rolled into it that I literally didn't stop until this morning. And then it wasn't just a stop, it was a brick wall waiting for me.

So, today, in contrast to my action-oriented, task-focused ways, was spent mostly on the couch. Under a blanket. Trying to rest being half-way through my pregnancy with baby #3, and with two little busy people under four vying for my attention.

At bedtime then, could I blame anyone but myself for the way my three year old acted upon bedtime routine - with tears and irrationality uncommon for her? No, she just wanted to see dad and have some stimulating conversation!

Was I so glad then, to read this lovely post on a blog called Cultivating Home, about another mummy's day - with five children at home. But how important it is to start our day out right, in a good, encouraging and positive, but mostly - faith-filled way.

Tonight, as I finish this post, I'm thankful. Thankful for such beautiful children, a loving husband, a wonderful church family and safe home to rest our heads. And I'm also thankful that God's mercies are new every day. Today has been a wonderful teacher.

And now, I'm looking forward to tomorrow, for it will be a better day.

Our weekend...

2010-03-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

Full of fun, colour and new experiences for our little ones!

Affirming our children...

2010-03-24T04:25:00.001-07:00

Gee, it takes wisdom and understanding to raise children... Wisdom I'm not sure some days on where to begin!

The thought of affirming my little ones regularly has been going around in my head lately, generated through reading a great book titled 'Women who try too hard : breaking the pleaser habits' by Kevin Leman. It's very interesting in that it suggests that the way we are raised will leave an indelible imprint on how we parent - how that little person we thought we left behind is actually still there - to a certain extent, and can still affect our decisions and relationships, even how we parent our own children.

How do you build up a little person in the right way, when the way you've been modeled was either the opposite or not at all?

I've found some great inspiration from 'want to leave a legacy? Affirm your children' (that's actually a blog for dads) as well as '21 ways to affirm your kids' (some cute, some a little kitschy, but hey - it's a start).

Now, don't get me wrong, I am such a proud mummy and do praise my little ones when they do something great, something right, or even put a 'wrong' right... but it's more than that. It's about building them up in the right way so they don't settle for shallow praise but through nourishing and enriching their spirit we build up their character traits as well.

Sick in bed...

2010-03-24T03:14:00.000-07:00

After doing a little reading on Uncommon Grace's lovely post on sick little ones at home, it's made me start reflecting on how I do things here when we have been sick in the past.

I am starting to discover that - maybe - like a lot of others when it comes to family traditions, home remedies and generational recipes, I will admit that I am bankrupt of most of them; however my family is poorer because of it. I don't have generations to ask of; they are simply not around anymore so now it's about gleaning this knowledge from so many who inspire.

So here's to changing things when the next bout of sickness comes knocking, which I'm sure it will as Autumn has just arrived. Instead of taking an expensive trip to the local GP (who is very good, and we trust dearly) maybe as a family we've become far too reliant on dosing up on pharmacy-bought medicine when tradition says most home remedies do just as well.

I've also been challenged on how I react or respond to my children's needs as they are feeling unwell:

And how important these times of convalescence are: to nourish a sick child's body, to nurture a sorrowful child's spirit, to ease a suffering child's mind. What does it take to do that job? Yes, it takes some real physical things: some eucalytus oil in the vaporizer, a homeopathic remedy under the tongue, a cool cloth on the forehead, a gentle massage of aching muscles. But most of all, it takes time. Time is the best gift I can give my children, when they need me, and even when they think they don't.

Nourish, nurture, ease... now there's something to think about, instead of rushing to the next thing to do.

What comfort foods do you provide for your family when sick in bed?

It's been a while...

2010-03-22T03:12:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

I'm sorry I've been away for a while from my blog.

There's been some things that have taken my focus off all things homely for a while, such as taking on some more graphic design work for a time.

Now that's slowing down, I'm able to again re-focus on things at home a little more, organise the house and dream and create our ideal family life at home - one step at a time!

Some big news that's happened lately - we found out officially a couple of weeks ago that we are expecting baby #3 in August this year! At this stage we are unsure of whether we are having a boy or a girl, but we'll be due to find out in a couple of weeks when I go for the 20 week scan!

We are so blessed to have another addition on the way to our two precious girls...

Destiny vs. fear

2010-01-12T03:59:00.001-08:00

Hi there!

It's been a while since I've posted something - but I've been on a bit of a journey lately. Lots happening here at home with hubby changing jobs and moving on to greener pastures. Certainly not something we planned, however - there have been so many more opportunities that have come our way as a result.

One of the things that keep me going through the hard times is being connected to my church family. Admittedly, sometimes there's more connectedness than others - but I cannot now underestimate the importance of building into our familys life every week through good teaching and nourishing relationships in our extended church family.

In the first week of January, our pastor spoke a great message on Destiny vs. fear. You can check out the podcast here from hopecity church in Croydon (Melbourne, Australia), or look through my notes from the message. I always find it's really good to take notes and review them every now and then, to remind yourself of what God says in response to the every day challenges, the highs and lows of this journey called life.

How to head toward your destiny

In 2010, will this be the year I face my fears? Will I choose passion over responsibility? Deep-seated passions can be buried under the burden of responsibility.

Luke 9:59 Don't rationalise or justify when God gives me a passion for something. He will give me the grace and resources to get the job done.

Luke 22:31 Will key experiences in my lifehinder me? I have to let go of things in the past in order to move forward. Will I allow Jesus to re-tune my thoughts on my past.

Guilt shrinks us; grace expands and enlarges us.

Will I allow Jesus to speak into (and heal) my past, so I can walk into my future?

Home...

2009-10-02T04:45:00.000-07:00

I have always placed a huge importance on the atmosphere that is created at home. I believe in creating a place where you can be yourself, where you can have fun and be free to be you. I believe in home being a safe place, where you can take refuge, or recharge or reconnect. Home is a place to escape, to grow, to rest, to play, to find protection, to find love.

Home is a place you go when you have something great happen in your life, home is also a place to go when you have failed or found some disappointment in life.

Everyday, I am mindful of the home environment in our house. I am tuned in to what changes that atmosphere and what impact and influence I have upon that. I want for my children and husband and for myself to know there is no place like home.

But home is about way more than a house. It’s about the people. It’s about God. It’s about relationship. Without that in my life, my house would not be a home.

Home to me is my husband and children. Connecting with our hearts. Living life together. Home to me is sitting in the presence of God. Learning about his heart and connecting with Him. Home to me is a place filled with friends and family. Home to me is a place filled with warmth, love, honesty, and heart.

There’s no place like home.

From Simone Turner's blog

Simple gratitude...

2009-09-28T02:43:00.000-07:00

There's this lovely little day calendar on our kitchen windowsill, a precious treasure found at the local favourite op-shop (now closed!) called 'Forever Family: thoughts and ideas for the Christian Family". It's lovely, a little bit daggy, a bit American (apologies to my American readers!!!), but I choose to put aside the not-so-useful bits and ponder on the good.

Going back a couple of weeks I flipped it over to find the day's proverb:

'As a family, sit down and write a letter to your pastor, telling him what each of you appreciates about him (or her!)'.

What a lovely thought, a gentle reminder of gratitude in our ever-busy world. Think I'll do that. Too many special people in our lives are at the receiving end - mostly - of criticism, sarcasm, persecution, doubt in their dreams or just plain tired out.

When was the last time you wrote (no, not emailed, not texted, but in old-fashioned... gasp! your own handwriting) to a special person who has impacted you in the most amazing way - someone who has sown into your life, believed in you, inspired you, brought out the best in you, enriched your life?

Do they know how much you've grown by knowing them?

Charming the Birds from the Trees: True Beauty, Passed By?

2009-09-27T04:50:00.000-07:00

Charming the Birds from the Trees: True Beauty, Passed By?

Amelie!

2009-09-27T03:53:00.000-07:00

I am so delighted to finally have this beautiful artwork framed and hung on our wall in our living room. Wow, isn't she amazing?

My husband commissioned this precious original, painted by my lovely and super-talented friend Amy, for an amazing surprise for my birthday this year. Knowing that I love all things francais, hubby suggested a french theme for the painting - who better personifies something french than lovely Audrey Tatou from 'Amelie'?

Amy, my friend - you are amazing. With all my heart, I love you!

Check out more of Amy's amazing work at amymiddleton.com

Thankful, thankful, thankful...

2009-09-23T21:42:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for my Dad. We had lots of fun times together when I was little - trips to the library, 'suprise' on Saturday night (which normally meant a trip to McDonalds - what a treat!) horseback on night time walks, trips to the park...

Now, what a blessing he is to my poppet. Every little girl needs a fun poppy to take her for horsies, walks in the pusher, and little thoughtful gifts to bring a smile to her face.

Thanks, Dad.

What are you thankful for, today?

Reading this week..

2009-09-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

I’ve been really taking some time lately to think about what I used to appreciate and look forward to from my childhood – one of the many things was a trip to the library with my dad. He’s always had a lifelong love of learning – one of the many things I love about him.

So, with a lifelong love of reading and learning myself, I’ve decided to encourage my little ones in the same way. We were off to the library for a quick trip yesterday…

...to look for some books that poppet has been keen to know more about (and mummy needs some answers too)...

...to keep learning Francais for poppet...

...a story book of her own choice...

...something for mummy to dream about and enjoy...

...and a delightful little book of poems...

...full of beautiful illustrations and lovely rhythmic prose to encourage a love of literature and expression of language...

...her favorite is 'Old Horses' by Max Fatchen. Enjoy:

Old Horses,

Leaning on fences,

Old Horses,

Rubbing on trees,

Old horses,

Lazy rumps pointing

Towards the cold gusts

Of a southerly breeze.

Old horses,

Never a gallop,

Old horses,

Heavy hoofs slow.

Old horses,

Down by the creek-bed,

Down on the flats

Where the sweet grasses grow.

Old horses,

Sweeping tails twitching.

Old horses,

Tossing their manes.

Old horses,

Gone are the hauling,

The shouts of the driver,

The tug on the reins.

Old horses,

Sleepy heads hanging,

Old horses,

Of yesterday's teams.

Old horses,

Soft nostrils breathing

The wheezy contentment

Of hay-scented dreams.

Doesn't this just evoke amazing memories of lazy days spent in the country? Air fresh tinged with hay, warm wind through your hair? Love it!

Entertaining at home

2009-09-18T03:18:00.000-07:00

"She...provides food for her household..." Proverbs 31

One of the things that our family enjoys the most is sharing our home with friends and enjoying discussion about things close to our heart, or inviting new friends over to get to know them better. And one of the ways that I want to keep growing in is being a more gracious, more generous, more amazing hostess than ever before!

As a result of many nights at the dinner table, watching what works and what doesn't, and wanting to develop a bit more creative flair when it comes to entertaining, I've found myself recently on the lookout for a new recipe, or a new piece of silverware, or interesting antique piece to add to my kitchen table for special dinner nights.

I found a book at my local library called 'Table Inspirations : original ideas for stylish entertaining' by Emily Chalmers.

It gave me lots of great hints to use - using a little creativity from items around my home I've been able to produce some

interesting new table arrangements. And tonight, I've just discovered a site that I'll be poring over for some fresh ideas,

Sunday Suppers. Take a look - this really steps it up a notch, but one day, one day.... I dream of having a place where

lots of friends and family can congregate in one place, over an amazing table, with deliciously prepared home-made food...

So, next time you're over for dinner, and you notice a few of these ideas have been stolen,

just don't let on!

French grooming...

2009-09-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

The classic French hairstyle comes in two versions: one for short hair, one for long. Short hair is severely bobbed: long hair is worn in a twist. Chignon is for evening, bien sur. What else could you possibly need?

How To Style The Modern Chignon With Ted Gibson

French!

2009-09-16T04:36:00.000-07:00

We had an exciting event yesterday, poppet, tiny one and I all attended a little French class for toddlers - aged three to five.

Oh, it was sweet, with the little ones and a teacher, fluent in french speaking to them and bringing in props like the french flag, then getting them to touch the rouge (red), blanc (white) or bleu (blue) on the flag, with little hands a little unsteady, reaching out to touch the right couleur... They sang a little song in french, went around and said their names, and conversed a little with the teacher in some simple phrases and words. Then it was off to the craft table to make a little crown and coloring in the french flag.

I was really encouraged as poppet has been gaining confidence with her french. I must be on the right track at home, as I realised a lot of the props the teacher was using, I've just made up on the fly! We sing a lot, we converse a lot in basic phrases, and, when we are out shopping or just going for a stroll around our neighborhood, I'll use repetition to build her vocabulary:

Êtes-vous bon aujourd'hui ? Ou êtes-vous triste aujourd'hui ? (are you good today? Or are you sad today?)

Quel est le nom d'aujourd'hui? (what is the name of today?)

Regardez, ce qui est cette couleur ? En français ? (look, what is that color? In french?)

For those who knew me way back in high school, I always had a little dream to teach french to little children. Little did I know, it would start with my own...

Television...?

2009-09-09T21:40:00.000-07:00

"...She watches over the ways of her household..." Proverbs 31:27

Oh, I love the Lord. And I am committed to raising my children to becoming all they can be in Him. It's because of a grateful heart that He has set me free from so many things, and yes, aren't we all a work in progress so I can look forward to an even more amazing tomorrow. But I want them to know about a God who is close by at all times, who has promised to do as He said He will (what was that again?), see themselves as He sees them - precious, chosen, virtuous, courageous, a daughter of great worth and value.

So on that, I've been doing a lot of thinking and making a few changes at home here. I've been questioning the content of a lot of children's TV shows - as innocent as they appear - they are fuelled with subtleties that little children are not ignorant to. Subtleties of disrespect, sarcasm, disobedience, fear, folly, and of course - everything magic appears so harmless...

It's been facilitated by the breakdown of our (very old) VCR, which DVDs need to use in order to operate on our TV. Somehow, I don't think it's a coincidence, more of a gentle reminding to keep focused on the important things and limit what my children are seeing via the media. So, we've had the telly off for the last week, and we are relating so much more as a result.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to be some religious fanatic - but I really care. I do care, I am being careful to make sure my children are fed a healthy diet of creativity, creative activities, art, talking, singing, reading, nature walks... because she who has been forgiven much (me), loves much. I just can't handle anymore a lack of passion when it comes to the things of God.

This is putting it out there, but I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Don't you love it when...

2009-09-08T04:05:00.000-07:00

JOY SCHERGER/THE FIELD HAS ITS FLOWERS

Alphonse Mucha - PRINCESS HYACHINTH

Alphonse Mucha (1860 – 1939) was a Czechoslovakian Art Nouveau artist who pioneered a sensuous, ornate style replete in stained glass colors, elaborately curving lines and ethereal women. Realizing that living people created the art he admired in churches, Mucha became inspired to paint. Moving to Paris, he was initially the archetypical starving artist, until Sarah Bernhardt asked him to create a poster for the play, “Gismonda.” The life-size poster, which was the antithesis of artistic trends of the day, was a sensation. Bernhardt signed him to a six-year contract, and he became a household name. Mucha’s style experienced an enthusiastic revival in the 1960s, particularly in psychedelic posters.

...you see a beautiful old painting and you think 'I find out who that artist is?' I had a moment like that today, when I spied some prints for sale on ebay...

For the longest time, I've loved their artwork and style, and it's now so nice to put some names to their work.

...Think I might try my local op shops for much cheaper replicas!

Home Education

2009-09-07T02:46:00.000-07:00

Love these few thoughts on inspiring home educating ideas from Cultivating Home...

Home Education

How to nature journal

Homeschooling with a large family...

The Morning Basket

Homeschooling from Wildflowers and Marbles

Investing in Family Part One

Dressing to Please

"...My daughters and I sit and talk, talk while we wash dishes, do lessons, live life. What is character? What is morality? What is modesty? What truly makes a woman beautiful?..." From The Power of Praying Women

Daughters of Virtue, Strength and Vision

2009-08-25T04:09:00.000-07:00

"But My servant Caleb, because he has had a different spiritand has followed Me fully, I will bring into the land which he entered, and his descendants shall take possession of it."

-Numbers 14:24 (emphasis mine)

This stands true for our daughters as well. Daughters have been deceived and lied to today by the world. They have been unprotected by their parents. They have been taught that true beauty and self worth comes from cheap outward adornment, how much they weigh, and whether or not they have a boyfriend. These daughters are taught that rebellion and haughtiness is the norm in order to be accepted by their peers. They have been taught that sexual prowess determines their popularity and they lack vision much like the actors and singers they idolize on TV . They are confused about their true purpose because their parents did not set it before them-- so instead they seek to be emulate the world. Despairingly, mothers today have abandoned and rejected biblical teaching of womanhood and therefore they are raising daughters like the women of Zion spoke about in the Bible:

"The LORD says, "The women of Zion are haughty, walking along with outstretched necks, flirting with their eyes, tripping along with mincing steps, with ornaments jingling on their ankles." -Isaiah 3:16

There were consequences for that.

What a stark contrast to see virtuous daughters being raised up with a different spirit. These daughters have been raised in homes by God-fearing parents that took the time to sacrificially disciple them. These daughters have been raised for Kingdom purposes and do not waste their time running around aimlessly on the streets.

This new generation of daughters are being raised to fear the Lord. They are taught to be feminine women of nobility, courage, diligence, loyalty and submission. They esteem purity and modesty. They strive to be honorable. They are daughters who have vision and remarkable influence as they help to advance the kingdom of God. These daughters have given their hearts to their parents and desire to help and bless them and their families. They possess meek and quiet spirits as they firmly defend and teach the Word to all who are willing to listen. They know their true purpose because they are serving the Lord wholeheartedly. They embrace how they were designed to be help-meets and seek to beindustrious to help their fathers and future husbands. Many are highly educated and well-equipped to teach the next generation about the Lord and prepare for Him an army of warriors.

From A wise woman builds her home

Keep on growing!

2009-08-25T02:47:00.000-07:00

Now she’s turned the fine age of three, Poppet has been attending the kids part of the service at our amazing church, hopecity. She came home with a bucket of grass seeds with ‘keep on growing’ which we’ve been using as a phrase throughout our days for the last couple of weeks to remind us to keep on growing in God. It’s been sweet to watch her interest in the grass seeds growing and connect the two in her mind.

It’s also made me reflect on how her life has changed, as well as mine - from the day we brought our precious baby home from hospital.

The first stages of new motherhood with baby can be frighteningly overwhelming at times – with lack of sleep, lack of socialisation and isolation the major factors for this independent, career-focused young woman. Not to mention the sheer unknown: ‘…the baby wont’ stop crying, what is it? Pain? Hungry? Tired?...’

I can remember feeling so fragile and underprepared for being a stay at home mother: so many women just seem to go with the flow but I felt like I floundered and blubbered my way through so many days of maybe the first 12 months or so.

Especially when you are lacking in sleep, minor things can really get on top of you and all of a sudden you can find yourself heading forwards down a very slippery slope – head wards into a pit of depression you really don’t know you’re in, or how you are going to get out.

Can I share one thing which I’ve learnt which is: it’s not forever. Going through it, the endless days of nappy changes, feeding, cleaning vomit, cleaning clothes, preparing meals… trying to cope any way you can, it seems as though it will. But before you know it, you have a little toddler on your hands – now much more independent and wanting to do things on their own, and mummy is able to take a bit more of a back step, and watch in wonder at what they come out with!

In order for a metamorphosis of life to occur, we need to take time out. To rest, relax in it, and learn this amazing journey of being a mother (for a whole new perspective, read Emma’s blog on 40 days of ordained rest for postpartum mothers).

For me to have survived such a life shift, having strong women of faith around me who have believed in me, and wouldn’t let me falter, weekly routines such as going to church (it may be different for you) week in, week out… has built something into my life. Doing things over, and over and over again. The power of repetition has strengthened me. God has strengthened me through the times I never thought I would believe again as I had before, all the times I’d cried and feared and wondered…

But now I think of the ways Motherhood has changed me and everyday is such a treasure, for we know not how long we have one another for.

My prayer is like at the end of proverbs 31: her children will rise… rise to become great mothers themselves. Rise to be gifted. Rise to love and be loved. Rise to be champions in the faith and do amazing things for their generation.

Who, or what, is helping you to keep on growing?

New site I'm intrigued by...

2009-08-24T19:43:00.001-07:00

View 'Jesus' on Polyvore

I stumbled on this site the other day, called Polyvore. I'm still a bit confused by it, but very intrigued!

It seems to be an online-scrapbook-page-making site, with a twist... you can combine parts of outfits, photos, artwork... you name it they've got it... then come up with your own concoctions for all to see! And if you've got the time for Scrapbooking - this might be your very next new addiction!

One of the projects I have on my to-do-list is to put some serious thought into the Interior Decoration of Poppet's and Tiny One's rooms. Even though we are living in a rental property for the time being, it doesn't mean I can't be creative and have a nice space for them to sleep in, while we wait on having our own family home in the future! So when I have some more time (heh!) I'll try using Polyvore to make some mockups of interior design ideas for their rooms.

Stay tuned!

As I Watch You Grow...

2009-08-24T05:26:00.000-07:00

As I was walking past a gift shop the other day, I was moved by a poem that was written on a little plaque. It was very sweet, just a few lines of heartfelt love from mother to daughter. Which got me motivated to look for a poem to include in Tiny One's first yearbook on her birthday in October. This is sweet, and it's from Family Friend Poems by Kay Theese. It's called "As I watch you grow, Daughter".

Do you know how much you mean to me?

You came from within, from just beneath my heart

It's there you'll always be though your own life will now start.

The next few years will so quickly fly,

With laughter and joy, mixed with a few tears to cry.

As you grow into a big girl, this fact you must know,

You'll always be my source of pride, no matter where you go.
You must stand up tall and proud, within you feel no fear,

For all you dreams and goals, sit before you very near.

Learning French...

2009-08-23T21:39:00.000-07:00

We've recently begun a journey together, my poppet, now three, and I. As I learnt French in high school, and have always had a love for the language and culture, I've decided to pick up where I left off - a little rusty I admit - and teach poppet the basics of French too.

We're enjoying it tremendously and poppet is really picking it up so quickly. We use a combination of French word books, flash cards and French podcasts to pick up pronunciation and furthering vocabulary.

So after a few weeks, she's picked up some everyday greetings such as hello, how are you, I'm good thank you/not so good thanks/not too bad, she knows five or six colours and counting one to ten en francais!

It's a big thing, but if we take it each day and learn a little each day then it will all build into an understanding of a second language in her life - what a blessing!

What's on the chalkboard this week, Madame?

2009-08-23T19:49:00.000-07:00

"...The wise woman builds her house...but the foolish pulls it down with her hands..." Proverbs 14:1

Lord, let me be a wife and a mother that builds her house with love, tenderness, gentleness, patience... and not destroy it with malice, deceit, animosity, disrespect and carelessness!

Just a thought for today...

2009-08-23T19:35:00.001-07:00

This is one for all the stay at home mummies, the daughters of the King, scattered all across the earth:

"...The royal daughter is all glorious within the palace..." psalm 45:13

Wow, that should give us all a pep up in whatever it may be we are doing with our day today at home with our children!

Father's day traditions...

2009-08-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

I've been very interested lately in starting a few family traditions of our own, now that we have a family of four - our two little sweet girls are such a blessing.

Father's Day is coming up very quickly and was thinking it would be nice as a family, instead of going out for breakfast or buying expensive gifts to instead cultivate a celebration at home of the wonderful daddy our girls have. I love the thought of a big hearty cooked breakfast on Saturday morning, placed on crisp fresh linen, freshly brewed coffee, the newspaper for later, and some perfect handmade gifts from our girls. And at the table - lots of laughter and memories for what's been and dreams for the years still to come...

So, in amongst searching for recipes for the perfect hash brown for a big cooked breakfast I thought it interesting to hear your thoughts, too... what are the ways your family has celebrated Father's Day? Is it a roast on Sunday eve? Or maybe a big brunch spread on Saturday? Do you have any special traditions you like to observe? How do you honour your husband on his special day?

ps. and by the way... when I do compile my perfect menu, I'll post it here!

What I'm reading today...

2009-07-27T03:39:00.000-07:00

"pruning your fear of hospitality" by Meredith Merchant

"homeschooling a preschooler" at Angelnavywife's blog

"distracted Christian mothers" at A wise woman builds her house blog

"tips for surviving and thriving in the baby/toddler phase" at Conversion Diary blog

What are you reading online today?

To My Readers...

2009-07-26T19:59:00.000-07:00

If you would like your blog's link to appear on my sidebar, please drop me a comment and I would be happy to update my blog listing to include it!

What's on the chalkboard this week, Madame?

2009-07-26T04:22:00.001-07:00

From Proverbs 14:1:

"...The wise woman builds her house,
But the foolish pulls it down with her hands..."

So this reminds me to be more careful with the words I speak - because God has set me as a nurturer, teacher, lover and encourager for my household. What a responsibility!

What are you using to encourage yourself daily?

A wordle!

2009-07-14T04:06:00.000-07:00

I created a wordle tonight about my blog. Check it out!

Get one at wordle.net.

A vision for motherhood

2009-07-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

I've been having a bad week this week. First, my husband came down with the 'flu. Tiny one has had a cough for a week which developed into a rattly one with a runny nose. Poppet also developed a sniffle and a cough. And, of course, I came down with the 'flu to end all 'flus. Then, of course, the wheels fall off. You aren't well, you lose patience with the children, then you get the guilts... the cycle starts very easily.

Isn't it always the way that when you are sick your mind starts to play on the things you're not doing right? Tonight I was really encouraged by a lovely post on a blog called A Wise woman builds her home from Proverbs 14 on the power of a vision for motherhood:

As I walked through the halls of my church I find our family of eight
get many stares. Often times young mothers will appproach me and ask
me how I do it or how many more will we expect to have. I know how
powerful a testimony my mothering is to the world. I know that when
I kiss my little babies head and adore him before other mothers, that
is teaching them to love their children. I know when I praise my
oldest daughter for being a mother's helper that I breathe my vision
of raising daughters into another woman's life. I know that my
joyful spirit can be contagious as I speak words of life about
children to the women who call their children "little brats".
Ladies, what is your vision of motherhood? Is it one that expands
down from generation to generation? Knowing that every word, tone,
act of kindness could affect a generation you will never see? Do you
know of your powerful influence to raise future pastors, leaders,
fathers, mothers for the Lord? Look closely at your brood, you could
be raising the next Billy Graham, yes, even the one smothered in
peanut butter and jelly who is trying to choke his brother! Yes, even
that one!!!! What will they say of you when you are gone? What
legacy will you leave behind, dear mother? Let's raise the standard.
Throw out the standard of the Jones' and let Christ create for you
that wonderful vision of Motherhood~the glorious servant who touches
and reaches the world with her heart.

It's got me thinking. And stopped me crying. It made me want to pick up the bible again after (ahem) too long. The Word of God needs to be my roadmap for mothering my children. How many times do I need reminding? What about you?

Toddler life

2009-07-04T06:30:00.000-07:00

"...She does not eat the bread of idleness..." Proverbs

I've been looking at a lot of different blogs lately in order to gain some perspective on being more of an educator to my little three year old poppet. She is so full of life, energy, questions and enthusiasm - what a gift, but also beginning to realise more and more - what a great responsibility to nurture it. I have not come from that background at all, education or creativity within the home, it was always done in school hours - so this is all very new to me. I'm blessed to have a couple of really good friends I can call on for advice who happen to be educators themselves but for the most part I'm stumbling upon some gems myself on the internet through blogs on motherhood and learning.

In amongst reading a great blog 'In the heart of my home' on practical life with toddlers, I came across this poem, which made me stop and think and want to make some adjustments to our daily life at home for their sakes.

If I had my child to raise all over again,

I’d finger-paint more, and point the finger less.

I would do less correcting and more connecting.

I’d take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.

I would care to know less, and know to care more.

I’d take more hikes and fly more kites.

I’d stop playing serious, and seriously play.

I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars.

I’d do more hugging and less tugging.

I’d build self-esteem first, and the new house later.

I would be firm less often, and affirm much more.

I’d teach less about the love of power, and more about the power of love.

Does it make you think? It made me think - of all the times I've squashed my children into my routine. Think I'll be making a few changes around here - I'll keep you posted on them as they are made!

A commitment to Loveliness... #2

2009-07-04T05:41:00.000-07:00

This is a fun way to increase femininity and beauty in our lives each week without even trying! All you have to do is choose five things that you would like to work on or do during the week that will increase the loveliness in your life!

Here is my list for this week:

1. Get to my hand written letter from last week.

2. Continue teaching poppet simple French words and phrases.

3. Start to think about planning some family traditions of our own. Something that our children will enjoy, love and look forward to in the years that lie ahead.

4. Laugh more and appreciate messiness more. If unexpected visitors come over, I'll just say: "excuse the mess, I'm more interested in raising happy, healthy children than scrubbing stovetops and tiles!"

5. Hold my peace.

Once you have chosen five simple things, post them on your blog and let us know in the comments section. If you do not have a blog, but have a commitment to share, please post them in the comments section.

Proberbs chapter 31

2009-07-04T04:32:00.000-07:00

Hi there...

Well... I've just changed the name of my blog to 'her worth is far above rubies' after some consideration. I thought it needed a new name from the original 'mrs spence' version I started with! And what better than to use something from the very scripture that captures my heart every time I read it, Proverbs chapter 31. Amazing wife, wonderful mother, shrewd businesswoman, strong, confident, faithful... surrounded by the finest of things.

I've posted it here, for you to have a read through if you are unfamiliar with the verse. Even if you've read it plenty of times... read on with fresh eyes, take some time to ponder and be encouraged!

The Virtuous Wife

    ¹⁰ Who can find a virtuous wife?
      For her worth is far above rubies.
       ¹¹ The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
      So he will have no lack of gain.
       ¹² She does him good and not evil
      All the days of her life.
       ¹³ She seeks wool and flax,
      And willingly works with her hands.
       ¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
      She brings her food from afar.
       ¹⁵ She also rises while it is yet night,
      And provides food for her household,
      And a portion for her maidservants.
       ¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
      From her profits she plants a vineyard.
       ¹⁷ She girds herself with strength,
      And strengthens her arms.
       ¹⁸ She perceives that her merchandise is good,
      And her lamp does not go out by night.
       ¹⁹ She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
      And her hand holds the spindle.
       ²⁰ She extends her hand to the poor,
      Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
       ²¹ She is not afraid of snow for her household,
      For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
       ²² She makes tapestry for herself;
      Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
       ²³ Her husband is known in the gates,
      When he sits among the elders of the land.
       ²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
      And supplies sashes for the merchants.
       ²⁵ Strength and honor are her clothing;
      She shall rejoice in time to come.
       ²⁶ She opens her mouth with wisdom,
      And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
       ²⁷ She watches over the ways of her household,
      And does not eat the bread of idleness.
       ²⁸ Her children rise up and call her blessed;
      Her husband also, and he praises her:
       ²⁹ “ Many daughters have done well,
      But you excel them all.”
       ³⁰ Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
      But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
       ³¹ Give her of the fruit of her hands,
      And let her own works praise her in the gates.

Just precious...

2009-06-30T04:37:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited about these little blocks I purchased from Etsy...

Bienvenue means 'welcome' en francais!

Can't wait till they arrive - they'll probably find a home in one of the girls' rooms.

Tres bien!

What's on the chalkboard this week, Madame?

2009-06-29T22:34:00.000-07:00

I'm fortunate enough to have a big black painted space in my kitchen... its actually the side of a wine rack, which is never used. So instead, I use it to write notes of encouragement to myself that I can read each time I walk past and remind myself of different things.

This week's is of course, from Proverbs chapter 31. And, thanks to little hands, some has been rubbed off the bottom, but you get the drift!

What are you using to encourage yourself daily?

A commitment to Loveliness...

2009-06-29T06:05:00.000-07:00

2. Now that I've planned my household routine, actually stick to it!
3. Continue to work on making our home a haven for hubby when he gets home from work... not just getting him to take the children off my hands while I finish dinner!
4. Buy a potted lavendar plant for the front porch and help poppet to plant her potted pansy in our garden.

5. Make the effort to set our dining table nicely for dinner each night... not just plopping plates down for a quick dinner but taking the time to make it special with candles and flowers.

The heart of her husband safely trusts her...

2009-06-29T05:44:00.000-07:00

On my journey of becoming a Proverbs 31 woman, I've been interesting in becoming a much better wife! There's always room for improvement and I think change occurs best when it's little steps over a long time.

I want to become a better wife for my husband. I believe that God changes a person from the heart; from the inside, but there's always things we can do to improve on the outside!

Our modern society says that a married woman dominates her husband and is the person that makes every decision in the home. She cooks healthy meals for her family, she keeps the house clean, she raises children and does school pick ups and drop offs, she is a lover, she is an employee, in most cases. How can we do all this effectively, and still take the time to be an amazing wife for our husband?

I found this, and I love it - it's a bit old fashioned but take from it what you will... Some are just downright funny, some are cute, and maybe one or two will give you a bit of a nudge in a new direction. Disclaimer: these tips are helpful for married women - young women going through courtship phase would do well to leave these for the time being!

"From an old home economics book, here's some tips for all the fascinating women out there who embrace their femininity, beauty, submissiveness, domesticity and who choose to stay home. For our heart is in our home...

A feminine woman is always motivated most by the love of her husband. She wants to please him in all her ways. She puts him first and understands the ways to a man's heart better than any one. In return, her man adores and appreciates her!"

TIPS FOR THE FASCINATING WOMAN

Get your daily chores done: Plan your tasks with an eye on the clock. Finish or interrupt them an hour before your husband is expected. An anguished cry; “Are you home already?” is not exactly a warm welcome!

Have dinner ready: The way to a man's way is through his stomach; plan ahead (even the night before) to have a delicious meal ready on time. This is a way of letting him know that you've been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospects of a good meal are part of the warm welcome needed.

Prepare yourself: Take 30 minutes to relax so you'll be refreshed when your husband arrives. This will also make you happy to see him instead of too tired to care. Turn off the worry and be glad to be alive - and grateful for the man who's going to walk in! Check your appearance. Touch up your makeup, apply a quick dab of perfume, put your hair into a simple yet alluring style and look fresh! Your man has just been with a lot of work-weary people. Be cheerful and a little more interesting ;-) His boring day may need a lift.

Clear away the clutter: Make one last trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives, gathering up school books, toys, paper, etc, in a bucket or wastebasket and put them in the back bedroom for sorting later. Then run a dust cloth over the tables. Your husband will feel he's reached a haven of rest and order and it will give you a lift too. Having the house in order is another way of letting him know that you care and have planned for your man's home coming.

Take just a few minutes to wash the children’s hands and faces and comb their hair, and if necessary change their clothes. They are little treasures and he'd like to see them look the part.

Minimize all noise: Especially give heed to this if your husband has to join rush hour traffic. At the time of his arrival eliminate noise of washer, dryer, dishwasher or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet at the time of their father’s arrival. Let them be a little noisy beforehand to get it out of their system.

Be happy to see him: Greet him with a warm smile and act glad to see him. Tell him that it's good to have him home. This may make his day worthwhile. If there's any romance left in you, he needs it now.

Some don’ts: Don’t greet him with problems and complaints. Solve the problems you can before he gets home and save those you must discuss with him until later in the evening. Also, don’t complain if he's late for dinner. Count this as a minor problem when compared with what he might have gone through that day. Don’t allow the children to rush at him with problems or requests. Allow them to briefly greet their father, but save demands for later.

Make your man comfortable: Have him lean back into a comfortable chair or suggest he lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow and offer to massage his neck and shoulders and take off his shoes. Don’t insist on this however. Turn on music if it's one of his pleasures. Speak in a soft, soothing, pleasant feminine voice. Allow him to relax-to unwind.

Listen to him: You may have a dozen things to tell him, but this moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first, then he'll be a more responsive listener later.

Make the evening his: Never complain if he doesn't take you out to dinner or to other places of entertainment. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure, his need to be home and to relax. If he's moody or irritable, never fight back. Again, try to understand his world of strain.

The goal: Try to make your home a haven of peace and order where your husband can renew himself in body, mind and spirit. He'll rather be with YOU than anyone else in the world and will spend whatever time he can possibly spare with you. Try living all of these rules for your man's homecoming and see what happens. This is the way to bring a husband willingly home to your side - not by pressure, persuasion or obligation!

Precious moments...

2009-06-28T05:26:00.001-07:00

Hospitality in the home...

2009-06-24T06:33:00.001-07:00

Another dinner with a new friend finished for the night...

There's nothing like true hospitality. I love sharing our home with friends and family, indulging in a hearty meal together, enjoying interesting conversation and lots of laughter.

This year I've made a commitment to invite more people over for dinner... and not just a 'let's order pizza', thrown-together-at-the-last-minute dinner, but one where thought, planning and care goes into the preparation of the meal, the table, the atmosphere... And I'm certainly not a fantastic chef with a repertoire of meals up my sleeve. I've a few tried and trusted favourites I use when we have guests over. More than meals and dirty dishes though, it's all about getting to know people so much better, and you do - when you invite people into your home, you're being an open book. People see how you relate with one another and your children.

It can be overwhelming to even begin to think 'how do I cook a dinner party for 8 people?' if you've never made dinner for guests before. And that's certainly not where you begin. I had no idea to even cook when I first got married- my husband and I shared the meal preparation responsibilities a lot! Thankfully, I've had an amazing model of hospitality shown to me from my mother in law, who loves nothing more than having all her family over, fussing over them with all sorts of delicious delicacies being roasted, stuffed, spread, baked and creamed!

And the idea of hospitality for me, comes from New Testament exhortation:

1 Peter 4:9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.

Romans 12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

Do you have any ideas on sharing your home?

Cupcakes, Blossoms and Winter sunshine...

2009-06-22T05:23:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been making more of an effort to be organised for the girls' sakes in running our home. Housework will always be around, but now I'm trying to prioritise the housework around little adventures, learning opportunities, cuddles and fun inside and outside.

Today we baked cupcakes... which is one of poppet's most favourite things to do (she had fun icing them herself), took a walk down to the park and made a new playdate friend (each Monday at 3pm we'll catch up with a neighbour who has two little ones the same age as mine), playtime with the girls in their rooms and outside with flowers. Poppet enjoyed pretending to be a bride on her special day with her little bouquet.

What adventures did you get up to with your little ones today?

Baby cakes.... mmm mmm!

Poppet pretending to be a bride with her posy

Poppet and mama cuddles...

Who can find a woman of virtue?

2009-06-09T04:08:00.000-07:00

"Strength and honour are her clothing... her children rise up and call her blessed". Proverbs 31

What an amazing encouragement this scripture is to me.

I've been thinking a lot lately about the worth of a woman of virtue. We are surrounded in a culture who's young women sell themselves out, not really understanding or valuing proper manners, social etiquette but most of all their amazing intricate value.

We recently attended a social event where black tie was the order of dress. Which normally means, men in dinner suits/women in after 5 formal gowns. And it was; most people made the effort to dress and act appropriately... until the alcohol started flowing!

There is something to be said for a woman who understands that she is different... stately, dignified, gracious.

Do you have a strong or honourable woman in your life who inspires you? If you don't have one, where would you find her?

Stellar op-shop find

2009-03-23T22:07:00.000-07:00

I've been rediscovering my love of hidden treasures in op shops lately. It all started after having lunch with a dear friend who is an amazing accomplished artist, telling me about how she sources lots of her materials for her pieces there.

So, on the way I stopped in at my local op shop.. to find a couple of little treasures... An old book on travelling through Europe with stunning photography... perfect for tearing said photos and framing them... yet to do - mental note! I also found a little And, my favourite - an old King James bible in perfect condition, dating back to the 1950's. And only for $2.00 for both of them.

I heard this saying the other day...

2009-02-10T19:09:00.000-08:00

Worry is just misuse of your imagination.

I liked it and thought you might too.

Things I've learned on life's journey #2...

2009-02-10T19:08:00.001-08:00

The very moment you feel inclined to open your mouth is the very moment you should keep it shut. And just listen instead.

Things I've discovered on life's journey...

2009-02-10T19:06:00.001-08:00

Never enter an agreement, whether it be a partnership, relationship, business venture or contract, without first knowing what it costs to get out, should you need to. I wish I'd known this when we signed up to fix our interest rate on our home loan at 8.57%. Sigh!

When God speaks... do we listen?

2009-02-10T18:42:00.001-08:00

"Incline your ear, and come to Me..." Isaiah 55:3

Something funny happened to me yesterday. I was at the stove cooking scrambled eggs for lunch when I called poppet over to come and have a look at the eggs cooking. I like to involve her in small cooking activities in the kitchen so she gets an understanding from an early age of baking and cooking.

As she sidled her little 'kinder' chair up near the stove (but far enough away from it to cause her any harm... come on peeps I'm not that irresponsible!) I asked her not to touch anything, just watch what I'm doing.

Of course, as any active little 2 year old would, she started to open the egg carton right in front of her and fiddle throughout the utensil jar on the benchtop near the hotplate. Feeling uneasy about her edging closer to a hot surface, I said 'hop down, please', and of course she got very upset. As I managed the scrambled eggs on the hotplate, I asked her, 'did you listen to my words?'.

As soon as those words tumbled out of my mouth, I had the gnawing realisation that God was teaching me something in the midst of me teaching my little one about listening to my voice.

Last week at church, Ps Andrew spoke about 'transformed hearing'. Listen to the podcast. Guest speaker Mark Pedder spoke about knowing God before making Him known. Listen to the podcast. Both messages have impacted me deeply and I've been thinking a lot and reading the Word a lot more as a result. I guess both are reminding me that just because I'm a stay-at-home mum for this season, doesn't mean I'm forgotten about by God Himself, and that He does have a great plan for my life... but that's another blog entry for another day.

I had a sense that God was showing me that I'm not all that dissimilar to my 2 year old daughter. Poppet thought she had it all worked out - I'll just look at this, I'll have a go at that, oooohhh - what's this thing? Running ahead and thinking that she knows better, when reality there's someone watching over her ready to provide direction and keep her safe.

I'm just like my daughter - just bigger and with more problems. God wants me to stop and listen. He'll give me direction, keep me safe and keep me on the right path.

Amen.

For all who love a bit of techno-fix...

2009-02-10T05:30:00.000-08:00

Daft Punk : Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger

I love Daft Punk. It's very funky... and helps me to work on the treadmill while I'm at the gym! Check out this incredible video - makes you wonder how many times someone had to listen to the song to do this! Takes a while to get into it... but it's worth it!

Another one for mummies : My poppet

2009-02-10T05:18:00.000-08:00

Hello again...

With a love of all things creative, I'm enjoying browsing a website called 'my poppet'. Full of very cutesie hand-made children's toys, clothing and accessories.

I personally think that the Shakespeare Nappy Cover is hideous but hilarious... and the miffy 4pc feeding set is cute.

Check it out! Visit mypoppet site.

For the mummies: another reason to love playschool.

2009-02-10T05:14:00.000-08:00

Hello all yummy mummies out there. I've found a fantastic way to keep my energetic toddler entertained for hours on end with the activities on the playschool website. There's stacks to choose from, and as you know, Playschool always uses stuff that you generally have lying around the house. Have fun looking through the activities and enjoy!!

The useful box

I'm really looking forward to making a sneaker garden with Trinity soon... hehehe xo

This is why love is scary.

2009-01-27T04:41:00.000-08:00

To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal...lock it up safe in the coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket...it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable... The only place outside Heaven where you can be perfectly safe from all the dangers and perturbations of love is Hell. For love is not there." CS Lewis.

Church : does modern music have a place in church?

2009-01-08T18:59:00.000-08:00

Music styles convey emotion. Music has an incredible capacity to affect people. Have you ever found yourself watching a movie and been moved to tears? Was it the incredible cinematography, the sweeping landscapes, the tragic love story? These things help, but I bet the score was to blame for your emotional response. Remove the music, and you'd be left feeling a tad cynical about how much you were affected.

Take a look through recent church history and you'll see church leaders getting into a flap about the use of instrumental music in church. Definately a no-no 100 years ago, now all churches around the country at least use an electronic keyboard thesedays! And if you're interested, some light reading on what the early church thought of instrumental music...

In the old Testament, God's own people, the nation of Israel, would get together and dance and sing in the way they knew how - through the music they created - popular music. They used it to tell stories of the great things God did in their midst. Can we be seen as heretic if we chose music that accurately conveyed our emotions, our feelings and our thoughts towards God even if it wasn't *gasp* written by a Christian lyricist? Could we ever dream of using current popular music in church as a means of worship, to enhance a message, to tell a story, to move people out of their comfort zone? To new people in church who have no reference point of an incredible God, the lyrics in some songs just seem plain ridiculous. Some of them were to me when I first became a Christian. We must be about meeting people where they are.

God created us to have emotions, to be emotional; in His image we were created. We were created to glorify Him and to bring Him praise. And God is a creative God, an ever-changing God, yet it's hilarious to think we would be unable to relinquish our iron-clad grip on our "two fast (praise songs), two slow (worship songs)" format on Sunday mornings.

Now, don't get me wrong. It's great to sing songs of praise and worship to the King... but should we force people to do it in the format we choose for them? Yes, we need to be mindful of lyrical content, of course. But Church leaders, you would be suprised at those same bored young people in your congregations throw away inhibitions when their favourite song, or style of music comes on in a packed environment. You would be suprised at how little children respond to popular secular children's artists. You would be suprised at how the older generations respond to music in their style. You would be suprised at how many people would respond, become responsive, even get out of their seats.

We owe it to ourselves to make our churches the most vibrant and contemporary houses of worship and praise... and use music creatively.

Children : entertaining vs education

2009-01-08T17:55:00.000-08:00

What are we sowing into our children's lives? I'm only at toddler stage at the moment, so this may change in the future... but these are my thoughts for now.

I'll admit, some days as a mother are incredible : the days of the first smile, the first tooth, the first word... then as they grow older and begin to construct and comprehend conversation and the ability to rationalise. Other days are just plain hard when you are charged with the responsibility of raising children full time. I can understand why some women choose to go back to the workplace... in some cases it's much easier!

During the last months of my pregnancy with my second daughter Amelia and the subsequent recovery after the birth was one of the most exhausting and demanding times of my life. Trinity still needed attention and mental stimulation and more often than not found herself rattling around the house whilst Mum put her feet up on the couch to have a rest, sapped of energy. Most days would consist of a couple of hours of TV in the morning, followed by a big sleep, followed by a couple of hours in the afternoon, with a bit of play in between. While this is only for a season, it's a habit I didn't realise I'd even slipped into, continuing well after Amelia was born.

During a 'play date' with a girlfriend and her children at our house, she mentioned that her children watch only about an hour of TV in the morning then it goes off until after they go to bed. It's natural for them; they prefer it that way. I had to admit I felt a large pang of guilt as I counted up the hours during the day that my daughter had been subjected to out of my tiredness and general laziness!

Parenthood is too important a responsibility to get wrong. It's too important to be lazy, indifferent, depressed or emotional. You need to be strong - physically, emotionally and spiritually in order to survive the race. And it's definately not a sprint, parenting is a marathon... and you need your energy for them day in, day out.

Mummies (and Daddies)... it's up to us to take initiative when we can see things in our lives that are out of alignment. Take the time to sow into the lives of your child, with education rather than entertainment. When they are tiny, don't spend time in the kitchen, get down into their world on the ground. Make the days interesting with art and craft for your toddler. Sing songs, tell them funny stories about what you've done in the past. Know what your children's giftings are. And if you don't know, ask the Lord to show you. Focus on those. The bible says in Psalm 127:4-5 - "Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one's youth. Happy is the man whose quiver is full of them..." Children are like arrows; they need to be provided direction. Impart to them the benefit of aiming high.

I've learnt to enjoy it rather than endure it - because before I know it my babies will be at school, with someone else imparting into them on a full time basis.

Gospel : The power of the message on foot

2009-01-07T18:40:00.001-08:00

Some time ago, I had two very kind people visit me at home to tell me about Jesus. They were from a well known religion, highly recognisable within the community with their frequent door-to-door visits on foot. Being a passionate believer myself, I was genuinely interested to hear their message and understand what drove them to go out (weekly, as I was to find out later) in the way they did.

Our conversation was polite, however, sadly, I detected they were more interested in converting me to their religion, rather than telling me from revelation about the risen Christ, a Saviour Who came as a servant to die for us in our place and offers a life of victory over all things we battle with.

I mentioned my encounter to a friend who made a comment that their door-to-door approach was all based on works (good works to be justified in the sight of a Mighty God) and not grace (which is... let anyone who believes in Him not die but have eternal life). This troubled me but also fascinated me. They had an incredible grasp on scripture - on all the things I questioned them on, they offered specific scriptures (some that were a bit of a tenuous link, I'll admit) to support their claims. I can understand why this is such a massive movement. People who don't have a foundation of the Word of God in their lives can be easily persuaded by those who (seemingly) do. But...

How many people are being misled this way? Can we be delusional enough to think that it's up to the pastors of our churches to be the single evangelist in our congregations?

Wouldn't it be great if the church we love, focused more on building and training people in the spiritual gifts they have been graciously given, rather than focusing on the physical gifts: outward talent and appearance? How many more people could we reach? How much more impact would the church have within the community?

I'd love to think the early church as described in the book of Acts still exists and is alive and well today. Where people were concerned about one another, prayer and fellowship was the central thing, when the people were bold enough, holy spirit filled enough and passionate enough to be sent with a GENUINE message and not be concerned about the opinions of those around them.

Welcome to my blog!

2009-01-05T15:43:00.000-08:00

I hope my thoughts on the important things of love, life, faith, family and creativity will generate interesting and lively discussion! Looking forward to your comments and feedback.

x Fi