Favorite Beauty Items

As a mom I so often find myself not taking anytime for "me." There are many days that I end up wearing sweats, no make-up, and my hair in a pontytail. Ok, being honest here, MOST days are like that. It is actually a rare occasion that I wear any make-up, fix my mess of hair, and wear anything without an elasticized waist!

There are a few staples in my "beauty" regimen that I thought I would pass along. Most of them are items that can speed up the process of getting ready, or just really good products that make me happy!



First off, let me say that for years I have tried numerous face cleansers. I have used those for acne, dry skin, exfoliating, etc. I almost always had the same problem with each one...my make-up would not come off unless I washed my face multiple times. And then I usually had to follow up with eye-makeup remover. Until I found this product! This cleanser has a make-up remover built in, and I can say that it takes off ALL make-up, even the eye junk in just one wash. What a time saver, plus it's less than $5 at Wal-Mart!




I have REALLY, REALLY thick, long, wavy/curly hair. I have broken dozens of combs while trying to manage this crazy mess of hair. This Paul Mitchell line of hair products does wonders for thick/wavy hair! It's pricey, so I don't always have the extra cash to buy it. But, it makes a huge difference in shortening my blow-drying time. I highly recommend the Super Skinny Serum.



This is the absolute best face moisturizer I have found. I have tried several brands, both expensive and cheap. I always come back to this one because it really works! I usually buy the lotion in the fall/winter since my skin is drier then. During the summer the gel is great.



I really have never fallen in love with a lipstick. They are usually so drying and don't last. I have tried lip stains and glosses, but they are too dry or too sticky. I tried these gloss balms last month and was pleasantly surprised. It's just enough color, and the consistency is great. It has the feeling of a balm, but not the stickiness of a gloss. I plan to buy one in almost every color!



I have mentioned before that I am OCD about cleanliness. And I wash my hands. A LOT. Not to mention I have two kiddos, so I am constantly changing diapers, cleaning up messes. And I use hand sanitizer religiously. So, I need a REALLY good hand lotion. This hand cream is the BEST. I have tried every one out there that claims to be for "extremely dry skin." Hands down (no pun intended), nothing comes close to this lotion! I use it every night and it keeps my hands from getting extra dry.


What are some of your favorite beauty items?

Cookie Bars

I came across this recipe last year at Christmas. I was checking out the Eagle Brand recipe website, and this looked really good and simple! The offical name is not "cookie bars," but that's what we now call them. They are SO good, and very easy to make. Enjoy!



Ingredients:

* No-Stick Cooking Spray
* 4 cups graham cracker crumbs (it's usually about one and a half packs out of a box)
* 2 (14 oz.) cans Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk (or store brand works too)
* 3 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1/4 cup butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

* HEAT oven to 350°F. Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray.
* COMBINE graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, butter
and vanilla in large bowl. Mix until blended. Spread evenly in prepared pan.
* BAKE 25 to 30 minutes. Cool. Cut into bars.

I accidentally picked up mini-chocolate chips this time. But, they still turned out great!

School Days...

Callie has done a good job learning to cut with scissors!




So, I have found out that Callie has quite the little personality and sense of humor. I never know what's going to come out of her mouth! This particular day of school she had her "Phineas" and "Perry" stuffed friends next to her while she was doing schoolwork. She then told me, "I have Phineas and Perry with me today. But not Ferb. He was in a mood."

LOL! Like I said, never a dull moment...

Your Story

Your story began in September 2005, when I took that first pregnancy test...and it came back postiive. From the moment I found out I was pregnant, I fell in love with you. I loved you in a way I didn't know was possible.

After 3 months of morning sickness, exhaustion, and anticipation, we went to our first doctor's appointment. I was a little worried when they couldn't immediately find your heartbeat, and was scheduled to have an ultrasound the next week. That week was the longest week of my life.

I remember the ultrasound tech checking the image on the screen. It was the first time I saw the tiny life that was growing inside me. However, the technician didn't smile or talk. She informed me that she wanted the doctor to come in and check things. It was then that I heard the words that have forever changed my life... "There's no heartbeat."

It's been six years, and yet I still remember every detail of the room, the doctor's words, and the emotions I was feeling. I remember the loss I felt instantly. Such a strange feeling to know the baby you're carrying is no longer alive. November 11, 2005 is a day I will never forget. That's the day you went to heaven.

There are so many things I would like to say to you. There are so many things I wish that we could do together. And one day, we will. But for now, this is my letter to you.


My precious baby,

I know you probably aren't a baby anymore, in your heavenly home. But to me, you will always be "my baby." I remember the day I found out I was pregnant with you, I was thrilled! And even through the months of morning sickness that followed, I told you every day, "Mommy loves you!"

I want you to know that your brief life meant so much to me, brought me so much joy. I never had to discipline or correct you. I never had to remind you to pick up your toys. I never had to separate you from fighting with your sisters. But, I want you to know that I wish I'd had the chance to. I only had a short time with you, and you only got the best parts of me.

I think about you often. Sometimes in the little things...I wonder what your personality is like. What would've been your favorite color, movie, toy? What would've been your first word? There are times I look in the backseat of the car, see your two sisters, and still think, "one is missing." YOU are missing.

I think about you in the big things too. Like the holidays. Would you have loved Christmas as much as I do, excited to get out the decorations and celebrate? This year we took a family vacation to Disney World. It was so much fun! I wish that we could've taken you too.

I think most of all, I wonder what you look like. I didn't get to look into your precious face. Or count your fingers and toes. I don't know what color hair you have, or what color your eyes are. Both of your sisters have blue eyes like me. And I can't help but imagine that you do too. When I picture you, that's what I see...your blue eyes.

I love you so much, and I always will. You forever have a place in my heart. One day, I will see your precious face and I know that it will be even better than I can imagine!

Love,

Mommy


"How very softly you tiptoed into our world, almost silently, only a moment you stayed. But what an imprint you footsteps have left upon our hearts."
-- Dorothy Ferguson


"What we have once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us."
--Helen Keller

Learning Letters

We have been using this Pre-K curriculum for almost a month now, and I can't say enough good things about it! We ordered it from Erica at Confessions of a Homeschooler and so far it has been great! It comes with lessons plans, printables, and lots of creative ideas! I would definetly recommend it to other homeschoolers who are looking for something that is both high quality and affordable!!

Anyway, Callie has been working on uppercase and lowercase letters. A few activities with the curriculum I have changed to suit our needs. Here are some pics of Callie practicing letter tracing and letter recognition.






And, during schooltime Ashtyn loves to be invovled as well...

Ultimate Coffee Cake

My mom has made this for breakfast for years. I never knew it's "offical" name and we just always called them "pull-apart rolls." One day as I was watching Paula Deen, she starting making this and called it the Ultimate Coffee Cake. So, I guess that's what I'll call it from now on...well, because it IS the Ultimate Coffee Cake.

These are SO easy to make, and taste SO good! I followed the recipe from Paula Deen on the food network. It turned out very well, however, there are a few things I will change next time I make this.

Ingredients:



16 to 18 unbaked frozen dinner rolls
1 (3-ounce) package regular butterscotch pudding mix, not instant
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted

Directions:

The night before place frozen rolls in well greased Bundt pan



Sprinkle dry pudding mix over rolls. Sprinkle brown sugar over pudding mix. Sprinkle chopped pecans over brown sugar.



Pour melted butter over all



To prevent the dough from forming a hard crust while its rising overnight, cover with a damp towel or tightly wrap with plastic wrap. Let rise overnight at room temperature, about 8 to 10 hours.



When you get up in the morning, it will look something like this



Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.



Turn pan over onto a serving platter to remove. Serve by pulling apart chunks with forks.



Now don't get me wrong, this turned out really good. But, it just wasn't exactly like my mom's. So, I called her and asked what the difference was. First, she normally puts the chopped pecans in before the frozen dinner rolls, that way the pecans are on top. Also, and this is the real kicker, she uses CINNAMON. I wondered why the carmel sauce didn't taste the same! She puts a teaspoon of cinnamon in with the brown sugar. If you are like me and like cinnamon, then add it in, otherwise leave the recipe as it is and enjoy!

School is in Session

Last fall I felt something change...it was my heart. I guess I shouldn't have been surprised, as God has changed my heart several times over the last 10 years. I had always said I would NEVER marry a Pastor, and have been married to my Pastor husband for over 7 years now. I never intended to be a homemaker, until God put the desire in my heart. And I thought I would never, ever consider homeschooling my children.

Well, things change. Like my heart towards homeschooling. Over the last year, God has placed such a desire in my heart and calling on my life to educate my children at home. I have felt a little overwhelemed at times over the idea, and scared or uncertain if I would be able to do this. After much prayer and seeking advice, I realized that on my own, no I could NOT do it. However, God's word promises, "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength" Philippians 4:13.

My hubby has not been 100 percent on board with the homschooling thing. He is supportive yes, but also skeptical of whether or not this is the best choice for us. So our compromise has been for me to do preschool with our 4 year old, and if it goes well and works for our family, then we will continue on.

We have researched so many different curriculums, ideas, and methods. We had settled on one curriculum, and for several reasons just hadn't ordered it yet. Of course, the advantage of homechooling is that you can begin and end anytime you want. So, kind of last minute we decided on a curriculum that we were both excited about.

Today was our first day of "school." Callie was super excited to get started, and was so attentive as I was teaching her. I am excited to begin this new journey. School is in session at the "Reid Academy."

Favorite Cleaning/Household Products

Thought I would share with you my go-to cleaning/household products that make my life easier, and well just make me happy :) Have I mentioned that I am OCD about cleaning? Anyway...these are my favs.



I absolutetly LOVE these dryer bars! It really keeps my laundry closet clutter free from dryer sheets. I put one of those in every few months and don't have to worry about static and it makes our clothes fresh and soft.



I use these more than any other cleaning product. Perfect for cleaning up messes which I encounter several times a day with two little ones. I use them everywhere...the car, kitchen, bathroom. I use them to discinfect phones, remotes, door knobs, trash cans, etc. Probably my absolute favorite product!!



I HATE cleaning toilets! I dread this task each week. So, I use these little things because I can flush away the disgusting germs, and not have a nasty toilet brush hanging out in my bathroom. Did I mention I am a germ-a-phobe?



And last, but not least, is the old standard. Bleach. Perfect for discinfecting and cleaning stains.

I pretty much LOVE to clean (besides toilets). I could spend lots of time in the cleaning aisle of Wal-Mart, and I am fond of the newest cleaning things sold on infomercials. I would love to hear what your go-to cleaning products are!

Stop for a Minute...

As a mom I feel like I am in a constant RUSH... I rarely have time to sit down and relax. There is always laundry to be done, dishes to be put away, toys to pick up, meals to make, diapers to change...and the list goes on and on and on. This is why I have become very fond of a little thing called "naptime." :)

I find myself counting down the hours, minutes, until I will be able to put my two precious girls in their rooms and have hopefully an hour or so to catch my breath, sit down, and think. Truth be told, I usually use about the first 20 minutes of their naptime to get the few things done that are impossible to do with a baby wrapped around my leg, and a preschooler asking me 20 questions.

But, then it comes, every afternoon...QUIET. I think I almost do a little "happy dance" as I close the girls' doors and know I am getting ready to have a few minutes to myself. I look forward to this time.

Today however, I felt a little different. I rocked my baby to sleep (as is our normal nap routine). And after I knew she was asleep I started walking to her room, giddy that I was going to be laying her down for that precious nap...and it hit me. These days are going by fast. I stopped outside her bedroom door, holding her. I tried to take in everything...the feel of her little head nestled into my neck, the smell of Johnson's baby shampoo on her hair, her warm baby breath, her soft skin.

She was wearing an outfit that her older sister wore, it seems like not that long ago. But it has been a long time. It's been almost 4 years ago. Where does the time go? It goes by in a blink...I want to remember every second with these girls. As much as I look forward to the days of endless time to myself, I won't be too upset when my baby awakes early from her nap and needs me to snuggle her for an hour. I'll quit rushing, stop, and savor those moments.

"Here am I. Send Me"

Do you ever get the feeling that God is trying to tell you something? Well, I had one of those moments a few years back. It was my first year of Bible College. I had answered God's call on my life to go into ministry, youth ministry to be exact. So I went to Boyce College and majored in Youth Ministry...

Within about a six month span, I went to various services at different churhces and at school. During this time, I heard five separate sermons on Isaiah 6. I thought it was coincidental the first two times I went to a service and the preacher's text was Isaiah 6, but after the third and fourth times, I started to wonder...is God trying to tell me something?

This passage of Scripture is entitled "Isaiah's Commission" in my Bible. I really started to get the feeling that God was speaking to my heart about obedience to His calling. Sure, I had answered God's call into ministry by going to Bible college. But it didn't end there. Little did I know, God was planning to call me into something entirely different that what I had thought.

Over the course of the next year, I felt God telling me that I was going into Youth Ministry, just in a different capacity. I was going to marry a Youth Pastor. God also placed in my heart a desire to be a stay-at-home mom. My husband and I served in youth ministry in a couple different churches, and then God yet again changed our calling to Pastoral ministry. Now, God is placing a burden on my heart to homeschool our children.

The one thing I took from all of those sermons on Isaiah 6, several years ago, is that when God asks me to do something, I should always say "yes." No matter how uncertain, or scary, or uncomfortable the task is, I must answer, "Here am I. Send me."

Success

In the "career world" it is easy to determine success. There is a standard or goal to meet. There is a boss that tells you what is expected. There are milestones you reach, promotions to strive for, rewards to obtain.

This is not the case when you are a homemaker...In my vocation, there is no "boss" telling me what needs to be done for the day. There isn't a job description. There are no promotions.

I have realized after several years, that only I can determine what success is for me. Sure, I have goals in homemaking and in raising children. But, really there is no one monitoring whether or not I achieve them. So, I have compiled a brief list of what I consider success in this season of life.

Success Is...

*Getting a diaper on correctly, on the first try

*Having the house stay clean for 8 hours straight (even if that's only because everyone is asleep)

*Managing to get more food into my baby's mouth than on her clothes

*Getting through Wal-Mart without any "melt-downs"

*A day without tears (from me OR the kids)

*Eating a meal in a restaurant without being "THAT family" with the screaming baby

*Getting my 4 year old to eat a vegetable willingly

*Eating my dinner before it gets cold

*Actually getting the clean laundry put away in the drawers and closets (instead of just moving the piles from the basket to the bed, etc.)

*Having enough time to put make-up on and fix my hair

*Sleeping through the night, without a child waking me up

*My daughters' hugs and affection

I have to admit that having two little ones at home can be down right exhausting at times. Often, anything I accomplish is quickly undone. However, I try to remember that the days are long, but the years are short.

Authentic Christianity

What does a Christian look like? I'm not talking about someone who calls themselves a Christian...but really truly is the "real deal." There is obviously a difference, because as long as I've been in church (since I was in the womb), I have seen people that claim to be a Christian and then totally deny Christ with their lifestyle. Being a "pastor's kid" growing up, I had been to more church services (regular services, business meetings, prayer meetings, etc.) before the age of 12 then a lot of people go to their entire lives. And if there is one thing I have learned, it is how to spot an "AUTHENTIC Christian."

When I think of something being labeled "authentic," I am talking about the true definition of authenticity. The dictionary defines authentic as: not false or copied; genuine; real. There are a lot of fake Christians in churches today. People that come to a church service and go through the motions of church, and then continue on the rest of their week as if Christ doesn't exist. If you have ever heard the song "What if I Stumble" by DC Talk, there is a powerful quote at the beginning. "The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians who acknowledge Jesus with their lips and walk out the door and deny Him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable."

I'm not claiming to be the "perfect Christian" by any means, and I would be the first to admit that there were times while I was growing up that I fell into this category of proclaiming Christ in word, but not in action. But I am so thankful for the examples of authentic Christianity that I had. First, I had my parents. Let me tell you, growing up with your dad as your pastor is not easy. However, I got a different perspective of my "pastor," since he was my dad. And I can honestly say, that he is the real deal. He never stood behind the pulpit and preached or taught something that he didn't practice. It was evident in his every day life, in word and deed, that Christ was in control. I knew my mom did her Bible study every morning. She was the perfect example of what a compassionate, loving, caring Christian should be.

There have also been other teachers, friends, or mentors that provided me with a great example of what a true Christian is. And I'm blessed to have a husband who is a spiritual leader and practices what he preaches. But the one thing they all have in common, is this...they are AUTHENTIC. Some people claiming to be Christians may be able to "fake it" at church or around other Christians. However, the true test is how they live outside the church. You can't hide much from your family. Your spouse and children know if you are real or fake. Your close friends and co-workers see how you act outside of church. How do you treat people you come into contact with? People such as waiters, salespeople, your kids' teachers or coaches. Are you pointing people to Christ?


"To live consistently and authentically, our relationship with Jesus has to affect every aspect of life." -Rebecca George


My dad always told me, that one of the biggest tests of a person's realtionship with Christ is not how they act, but how they REACT. One of the greatest compliments I have ever received was from a godly man whom I had great respect for, in one of the churches we served at. One day he told me, "I can see Christ in you." While I hope to be the best wife, mother, daughter, Pastor's wife and friend I can be, nothing comes close to who I am in Christ. When my life comes to an end, that is all that will matter.


"We do not segment our lives, giving some time to God, some to our business or schooling, while keeping other parts to ourselves. The idea is to live all of our lives in the presence of God, under the authority of God, and for the honor and glory of God. That is what the Christian life is all about." -R.C. Sproul

Contentment

The subject of contentment is something very close to my heart. It is something that I have struggled with for a long time. You see, I have this BIG problem, and it's called WORRY. I worry about literally everything. All. The. Time.

I can honestly say that some of that worry comes from my desire to be "perfect" in all things. I totally fit the profile for the "Perfectionist" personality. And you know what this striving for "perfection" has left me with? That's right...worries.

I worry that I will get sick (or worse) on a daily basis. Because, if I get sick, then who will do the laundry, cook, clean, take care of the kids? In my right mind, I know that my husband will help, he always does. But still, the worry is there. I worry that one of my kids will get sick (or worse). I worry that my house won't be "clean enough." This is partly to blame on my parents. While they are absolutely wonderful, they instilled in me this standard of cleanliness and order that I can't get out of my mind. I worry about not meeting other people's standards, whether it be in ministry or parenting, etc. (There's that whole "perfectionism" thing again.) I worry about all the "What If's" in life.

I worry so much, that sometimes after mulling over something over and over again, I will lose my train of thought...and then I worry about not remembering what I was worrying about. Are you still following me here? I told you it was bad...

But, several years ago I read this book called "Calm My Anxious Heart" by Linda Dillow. She is an amazing author and I have read almost all her books. This book in particular feels like it was written especially for me. In the first few chapters, Dillow adresses not the issue of WORRY, but rather the issue of CONTENTMENT.

I have to admit that I hadn't associated those two things together before. But as I read the first chapter this is what I highlighted...

A Prescription for Contentment:
*Never allow yourself to complain about anything--not even the weather.
*Never picture yourself in any other circumstances or someplace else.
*Never compare your lot with another's.
*Never allow yourself to wish this or that had been otherwise.
*Never dwell on tomorrow--remember that [tomorrow] is God's, not ours.

The author goes on to talk about the "secret to contentment." It's found in God's Word. "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." -Philippians 4:11-13

That means that I CAN be content no matter what life throws at me. In any situation, and at all times, God can give me strength to handle it. J. I. Packer says this, "Contenment is essentially a matter of accepting from God's hand what He sends because we know that He is good and therefore it is good."

As I realized how much this worry was connected to contentment, God started showing me other things in my life. I wasn't content. There was always something more that I wanted. When I was single, I wanted to be married. When I was married, I wanted to have a baby. When I had a baby, I wanted a house. You see...there's always something else that I "don't have." I think that when I stopped focusing on what I didn't have that I thought I should, I was able to release a lot of my worry. Don't get me wrong, it is still something I struggle with every single day. But, I can go back to those verses and realize that no matter what I have or don't have, no matter what season of life I am in, God will give me the strength to handle it.

Linda Dillow says it this way, "Our thought life--not our circumstances--determines whether we are content." It's not about where I am or what I have. The important thing is where I'm focused. And my focus is on Christ.

What is Your Legacy?

Have you ever really thought about the word legacy? A legacy is defined in different ways, but the one I want to focus on is this...Legacy: Something handed down from an ancestor or a predecessor from the past.

I have been thinking about this a lot lately. We had a wonderful, godly older woman from our church pass away last week. She had 12 children, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and even great-great grandchildren. As I sat through her funeral and watched her family, I couldn't help but feel overwhelemed by the love that was shown for her. Many got up and spoke of this woman's unfailing faith in Christ, her devotion to her family, and her love for others.

It got me thinking...what kind of legacy will I leave? When my time here on earth is done, what will I have accomplished?

I know what I hope my legacy will be. I hope that I will pass on the faith to my children that my parents passed to me. I hope that I will make an eternal impact for the Kingdom.

The lyrics of the song "Legacy" by Nichole Nordeman truly express what I hope to leave behind...

"Legacy"

I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me
I enjoy an accalade like the rest.
You could take my picture and hang it in a gallery
Of all the who's who's and so-and-sos
That use to be the best at such-and-such
It wouldn't matter much.

I won't lie if feels alright to see your name in lights
We all need an ada boy or ada girl
In the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides
The temporary trapping of this world

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me
Did I choose to love
Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace
Who blessed Your name unapologetically
To leave that kind a legacy

Don't have to look too far or too long awhile
To make a lengthy list of all that I enjoy
It's an accumulating trenket in a treasure pile
Where moths and rust theives and such will soon enough destroy

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me
Did I choose to love
Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace
Who blessed Your name unapologetically
To leave that kind a legacy

Not well traveled not well read
Not well to do or well bred
I just want to hear instead
"Well done good and faithful one"

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me
Did I choose to love
Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace
Who blessed Your name unapologetically
To leave that kind a legacy

Unfading Beauty

Teeth Whitening, Spray Tans, Fake Nails, Mega Hair, it's all part of a pageant...for toddlers?

I recently watched an episode of "Toddlers and Tiaras" on TLC. I have to admit, that I was pretty amused by the ridiculous mothers on the show. However, my amusement quickly turned to pity for these little girls (children) that are being taught that their worth is measured by their outer beauty and talent.

Being a girl isn't easy. From an early age we are bombarded with the message that "beauty is everything." We all want to be princesses, becuase of course princesses always look pretty. As we get older we want to have the latest fashions, the most enviable hair style, and a body that is a "perfect ten." Everything in our culture emphasizes that looks are important. From TV, to magazines, to movies, to the internet, it all says the same thing. I'll refer back to one of those mothers from "Toddlers and Tiaras" that stated very matter-of-fact, "the pretty kids are the popular kids, the one everyone wants to be friends with."

Even as Christian women, we fall into this trap. I very painfully went through the "ugly duckling" stage in middle school and early high school. I felt like I was inadqaute in many ways. I was "too skinny", "too pale", and "had poor fashion sense." I subscribed to the latest teen magazines and would put myself through the torture every month of disecting every "imperfect" part of my outward appearance. It doesn't help when you have friends or family members that, although not trying to hurt you, point out these insecurities. Top that off with being friends with the girl that "every guy wants to date," and it's enough to make anyone feel like a total loser.

Then it happened...kind of like it does in the movies. When the girl that is awkward and frumpy suddenly becomes attractive and interesting. As I came out of the "ugly duckling" stage, I felt like I had finally made it. I mean, I was no supermodel, but I felt like at last I met the world's standard of "beauty." I suddenly had the attention of boys that I had so desperately longed for. But, I still had insecurities. I felt more pressure to keep up. I had to look "perfect" at all times.

It wasn't until I went away to Bible college that I learned something different. Something that is in stark contrast to what the world teaches. I learned about inward beauty. I feel like I truly came into my own as I spent more time perfecting my "inner self" rather than my outer appearance. Just as Moses' appearance was changed after spending time with God on Mount Sinai, "he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord" Exodus 34:29, the more time I spent reading my Bible, praying, and worshiping God, I feel the more "radiant" I became.

Don't get me wrong, I am not saying that I think I'm beautiful. At least, not by the world's standard. 1 Peter 3:3-4 states, "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight."

I have learned that my TRUE worth comes from who I am in Jesus Christ. And it is important for me to remember this, and share it with other girls. It is important because I have two girls of my own. Two little girls who want to be princesses. I have to be very conscious about the way I praise them. I find myself often telling my oldest girl, "you're so pretty." While this is true, I have to be careful that I emphasize true character qualities, and not just physical beauty. I have to be intentional about praising her for telling the truth, serving others, and memorizing Scripture.

I hope that I can be the louder voice in my daughters' ears. I can't completely shelter them from the world's standards. But I can however teach them something different. I can teach them that their worth is not found in worldly things or by the way they look. I can teach them to value themselves based on God's Word.

If there is one thing I have learned since having children, it is that outward beauty certainly doesn't last. Having a child changes your body, and raising children certainly influences your outward appearance. Most days I am lucky to get some make-up on, and am very fond of comfortable clothes over the latest fashions. And while I feel it's important to take care of yourself and not be a slob, that's not where I find my value.

Proverbs 31:30 says it best, "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised."

Inspiration for the Blog

I have read so many blogs about homemaking, ministry, homeschooling, etc. There are little things I have taken from each of these blogs. I also wanted to share my journey as a homemaker, to hopefully encourage other women to "love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind." (Titus 2:4-5)

I by no means think I am an expert in any of these areas, but it is my goal each day to be a better Christian, wife and mother. Through this blog I will share my thoughts on faith, marriage, family, and ministry. Please join me on this journey, and feel free to share your thoughts and feelings with me. I can always use encouragement from other women who are striving to be what God wants them to be.

In Him,

Hannah