Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children's ministries and women's ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I've seen a lot.
I just finished watching a movie, The Same Kind of Different as Me. I had to come to tell you about it immediately while my heart was still moved. This movie is based on the true story of an international art dealer who cheated on his wife. His wife forgave him but for penance, she required him to come with her and serve at a local homeless shelter. She dreams of an angry homeless man that is very wise. Low and behold he showed up at the shelter. Deborah tells her husband to befriend him. It took time and several tries but he finally makes friends with him and the story begins. I don’t want to spoil the story so I will stop there.
I will say that the homeless man taught me two things I hope to not forget:
We are all homeless, just looking for the way Home. Everyone has a past we are not proud of and we are homeless because this world is not our home. We need to look beyond what we see (race, status, education) and realize that God is the only way home. We are all the same kind of different and we need to come together to help each other make it home.
Some people need to have the “hell” loved out of them. Sometimes, we must look deep, really deep to find the good in people. But it is there. We can’t give up on them. Keep loving them until they find the God that loves them.
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Same Kind of Different is based on the book written by the actual people that experienced this God Story. It has some great actors like Jon Voight, Greg Kinnear, and Renne’ Zellweger. You will also love a beautiful song by Brad Paisley, Stubborn Angels.
Brad Paisley’s Stubborn Angel
True Story Told by Those who Experienced it.
If you are more of a book reader than a moviegoer, you can pick the book up in hardcover, softcover, Kindle, audiobook or CD MP3. There’s is even a children’s version to help you teach your children about kindness.
Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
1 : a gift by will especially of money or other personal property : bequest She left us a legacy of a million dollars. 2 : something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past the legacy of the ancient philosophers The war left a legacy of pain and suffering.
We’ve been talking about Legacy this summer. I thought we might want to define what a legacy is. According to the above, anything we leave behind whether it be money, property, or memories and emotions.
I believe the most important thing to leave behind is not cash and property. These things do not last. But the spiritual legacy we leave lasts forever.
Legacies Left By Women
I was thrilled to read about all the legacy stories of women in our lives last month. There were several of us that have been inspired by Elisabeth Elliot and evidently many of us were sure to read the posts about her. The most read post, Do The Next Thing by Beth Willis Miller wrote about Elisabeth Elliott as well including Elisabeth poem by the same name. If you haven’t read it, be sure to click and read it.
The Women’s Legacy Link-up is closed for additional links; however, you can still go read all of them if you missed them.
Are We Creating Weak Men?
In my opinion, men have been beaten down and disrespected too much in our society. In an effort to increase equality for women we have created an atmosphere where the legacy of men does not matter. Everywhere we turn women are being praised and lifted high but men are ignored and treated as if they have nothing to share. It is no wonder that young boys are not finding value in life. They are not encouraged to make anything of themselves.
Dr. James Dobson said,
“Nations that are populated largely by immature, immoral, weak-willed, cowardly, and self-indulgent men cannot and will not long endure. These types of men include those who sire and abandon their children; who cheat on their wives; lie, steal, and covet; who hate their countrymen; and who serve no god but money. That is the direction culture is taking today’s boys.”
While in the ministry, my husband and I always enjoyed putting together a celebration celebrating women on Mother’s Day and Men on Father’s Day. It was strange to me that for Mother’s Day I could ask and receive many very nice gifts (and sometimes expensive) for door prizes. But it was like pulling teeth to get businesses to donate for Father’s Day. It just didn’t seem to be as important. I don’t get it. Why do we not value the great men in our lives?
Let’s Celebrate the Legacy of Men
This month we will celebrate Father’s Day. So let’s celebrate some of the men who have left or are leaving great legacies behind for the men to follow. This could be your dad or grandfather or even a step father. Below I will give you examples of men who have inspired me.
1. My Father
My father was a dairy farmer. A kind and compassionate man. He loved giving great big bear hugs, still does. However, he says that I was the one who taught him to hug. That story is on my memoirs blog, Raised in a Barn.
I respect my father and hold him high on a pedestal. In his day, he was a great leader. Not only did he teach and lead at church as a layman, but he was also a community leader. He is still a member of the Gideons International. Most of us have encountered the Gideons and may have a Gideon Bible to prove it.
Dad also led on the school boards both in our community in Ohio and then again in Wisconsin until all six of his children graduated from high school. I am confident that Dad led the way for many actions on the board. However, as a kid, the one thing I enjoyed the most: he initiated the idea to serve chocolate milk in the schools. Cool!
He was always proud of his kids. His kids lived respectable lives mainly because he never let us get by without being obedient and respectful. I’m proud to say that all of us turned out to be upstanding citizens with a great work ethic.
There are many things my dad would quote like “Who left the lights on? Do you think we own the electric company?” (Actually, since it was a co-op, I guess we did own it. ha!) But here’s my favorite. It always showed me his pride for his family; never any regret for having six children. And how much he loves us.
3 Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. 4 Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands. 5 How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates.
Psalm 127:3-5 NLT
2. Biblical Men Who Inspire Me
It’s hard to really nail down any one man in the Bible who inspired me the most. But King David is right up at the top of the list. I am ever so grateful for his writings in the Psalms. I run to them nearly every day. David wrote his feelings out and when I read them, I feel he has read my mind.
David’s life proves that no matter what you go through God is always there beside you. God has got your back and your front and your head. I call this “The God Sandwich”. It’s a group hug with only you, God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. We can’t feel more love than this… completely covered by His love.
You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.
Psalm 139:5 NLT
David’s Life Inspires Me
Isn’t it also comforting to know that the man who was “a man after God’s own heart” was also susceptible to sin? This fact encourages me because it shows me that we all can falter even those close to God. But here’s the key: When Nathan rebuked David about his sin, David immediately repented. David Left a legacy that we can follow, a man/woman after God’s own heart.
Again, finding just one to speak of is too difficult for my mind. God has placed great men all down through history. Men who have preached the Word. I think of John Wesley, Charles Spurgeon, and Billy Graham who had throngs of people wanting to hear their messages. These men led millions to salvation. Great revivals broke out because of their obedience to God.
And men who have lived out the Word, such as missionaries Jim Elliot and David Livingston.
Business Men Creating Legacy
David Green made waves in 2014 when Hobby Lobby defeated the federal government’s requirement that closely held companies cover certain types of birth control medication and procedures that many Christians believe are abortifacients. Green’s 680 craft stores always close on Sunday.
Dan Cathy became the CEO of Chick-fil-A after his father, S. Truett Cathy, passed away in 2014. Truett Cathy started in the restaurant business in 1946 and opened his first Chick-Fil-A in Atlanta in 1967. He was a conservative Christian who, like Hobby Lobby’s David Green, chose to have his restaurants closed on Sundays.
Tim Tebow, a football player who took a lot of flack for giving God glory at the ball games. His football career gave him the platform to share Christianity all over the world. He founded an organization to serve children, sharing God’s love… “by fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves.”
Every year he sponsors a prom for the handicapped called “Night to Shine”. In 2018 alone, 537 churches nationwide and in 16 countries, supported by 175,000 volunteers, celebrated 90,000 kings and queens at Night to Shine, an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs. See the Tim Tebow Foundation.
Huck’s Heroes
I love the Segment, Huck’s Heroes on The Huckabee Show. Every week he celebrates someone who is living out the love of Christ in their community. Here’s one that recently aired.
Where are the Good Men?
These days, We can become discouraged when we look around. It seems the devil is winning and no one is serving the Lord anymore. But the more things changes, the more they stay the same really. All down through history, it would seem that evil would prevail. Take encouragement from the account from Elijah in 1 Kings 19,
And a voice said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 14 He replied again, “I have zealously served the Lord God Almighty. But the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you, torn down your altars, and killed every one of your prophets. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too.” 15 Then the Lord told him, “Go back the same way you came and travel to the wilderness of Damascus. When you arrive there, anoint Hazael to be king of Aram.16 Then anoint Jehu grandson of Nimshi[b] to be king of Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from the town of Abel-meholah to replace you as my prophet.17 Anyone who escapes from Hazael will be killed by Jehu, and those who escape Jehu will be killed by Elisha! 18 Yet I will preserve 7,000 others in Israel who have never bowed down to Baal or kissed him!”
Remember, you are not alone. God is preserving His church for that glorious day when He returns to gather His children. Keep the faith, my friend. You are not alone. Hold to the Lord. Remember what Paul wrote to the Philippians, even while in prison.
Live as Citizens of Heaven
27 Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.28 Don’t be intimidated in any way by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved, even by God himself. 29 For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him. 30 We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of it.
This summer we will also be celebrating the Legacy of Blended Families in July and The Legacy of Adoption in August. If either of these topics applies to you, we would love for you to participate in the link-up expected to open the second week of each month.
I will also feature a blog on each link-up. If you would like to be the featured guest writer, please contact Mandy through the Contact us page.
Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
In Savannah, we all know what it is like to be awakened in the night with blaring horns warning us that there are severe storms in the area. I recall into the midwest that storms and tornado warnings could come upon us quickly as well. Either way, it’s a frightening experience.
Just like in a tropical storm, we have no control of where or how the storms come in our lives. It may barrel straight through us or it might skirt around us. Some storms may be strong and dangerous and others are slow and become just a thunderstorm or even just a bit of rain. One never knows.
Isn’t Living For Christ a Cake Walk?
We would like to think that if we are following the Lord, life’s path will take us through smooth sailing. But this is not true. The Bible says, “In this life, we will have trouble.” (John 16:33) The Promise we do have is safety through the storm.
Oh, how we must learn that God is faithful through the storm.
God Sees us THROUGH the Storm
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He will be right there with us, our haven. His path will help us grow and learn. We will be strengthened to face another day. He provides for our every need in every situation. There is Hope in the Hard Places.
We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 ESV
But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.
Isaiah 43:1-2 ESV
Why do we worry and fret and not live in the peace that He offers us? Why do we allow the projected path of a storm to get us all worked up? We aren’t showing the world a reason to follow Christ if we fret and worry over our situation.
But when we have peace in the storm, THAT is when people stop and wonder what it is that makes us so calm. This is when we exemplify the peace that Christ provides.
Let’s rest in Him through our trials so that He gets the glory and we get the peace that passes all understanding.
Enjoy This Hymn Favorite
P.S. I’ve been introducing the old hymns lately. This seems like a good time to share a hymn…
“There is Peace in the Midst of the Storm”
When the world that I’ve been Living in collapses at my feet And when my life is all tattered and torn Though I’m wind-swept, I’ve been battered I’m gonna cling unto His cross I’ll find peace in the midst of the storm (Is that alright?)
There is peace in the midst of the storm-tossed life There is an Anchor, there is a rock to build my faith upon Jesus Christ is my vessel so I fear no alarm He gives me peace in the midst of the storm
-by Stephen Adams
Peace in the Midst of the Storm: Performed by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
Originally posted on GGMandy.com for the five-minute writing challenge. Write for 5 minutes unedited on a specified topic. The prompt … HAVEN
It rained yesterday.
Dark billows covered the sun and dropped water heavy from the sky and then more before the wipers could clear our windshield. Lightning flashed around us like paparazzi while thunder shook the windows.
We pulled into a parking space and waited for the storm to subside and then stepped out into pools of rushing, swirling water looking for already full drains. The rain fell on our faces as we rushed to a safe and dry place. We shook our heads and wiped our arms of excess water and found a place to sit and rest.
In Savannah, this is a normal summer afternoon experience.
And isn’t it also for our lives? Daily trials present themselves, stresses at work, disputes with neighbors, disagreements at home, laundry piling up, bills to pay, and possibly illness. And we haven’t even turned on the news yet. Sometimes we see the storm building; other times, it catches us off guard.
There’s good news, my friend. There is such a haven.
It’s in Jesus Christ the Lord. He’s the only only who can calm the storms around us and the storms within. We just have to receive Him. He’s been there, done that. Let Him calm your storm.
The most precious time for me is those few minutes spent with Him sometime during the day. You might think there is no time for that, but I promise you, if you give Christ the first few minutes of Your day, He will bless the rest of it.
Take him along with you, read some scripture while you wait for your lunch or picking up your child from school. [I like the Psalms. One of my favorites is Psalm 34]
Find that haven by going to God and giving Him your heartaches.
1. There is a Haven for every weary traveler When the storm breaks the stillness of the night There is a safe place for all the lost and lonely To find shelter until the morning light
(Chorus) There is a Haven for the weary soul to run to When you’re tired of all the guilt and all the shame There is a Savior and His open arms are waiting There is a Haven and Jesus is His name
2. There is a Haven of comfort for God’s children You can find it when you speak His name in prayer He’ll give you rest, then, from all your cares and labors There’s a Haven, and the Lord will lead you there
Repeat Chorus
The above lyrics were excerpted from the following link
Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
I stood there confused before our two boys as they each wove their own tale about what caused their most recent altercation. New at this mothering thing, I acted on my own determination to always listen to all sides of the story before deciding on who received punishment. It was something I determined back when I felt I was being unfairly punished.
But I was fast learning that this plan led only to more confusion and lies. I wasn’t able to sift through their stories and find the truth at all. Their stories were not matching up. There was little truth to be found.
I don’t think I ever really figured out how to get to the bottom of things between the boys. They used both paid the penalty though sometimes the truth could be seen by looking in their eyes.
Oh, the Tangled Web
Today’s society seems to weave the same kind of tales to catch us in their web of deceit in order to have their own way and to justify the life they want to lead. It’s nearly impossible now to find the truth anywhere. Certainly, not in the media and sometimes, not even from smooth talking preachers who like to bend the Word of God for their own advantage. The Bible warns us against such.
For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.
2 Corinthians 11:13-15
So, where do we look for the Truth?
1. Turn to God
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
James 1:15
King Solomon knew where to find wisdom. He was now the new King of Israel. And the first thing he did was ask God for Wisdom. God made him the wisest king ever and gave him much more for having his priorities straight. We need to follow Solomon’s example. Pray for wisdom.
“I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God.”
As Paul prayed for the church in Ephesus, I pray Christ gives you spiritual wisdom that you may grow in your faith and knowledge of Him. I pray your heart remains humble and teachable and that you always look to Jesus as your wisdom.
2. Seek Wise & Godly Counsel
These are the ones from whom we should be asking godly counsel. I’d start with your pastor, your parents. or church leaders and then from books written by godly leaders who won’t lead you astray.
Be careful about the books you read. Be certain that the author is credible in the area in which you need wisdom. Again, ask trusted leaders which authors they trust. Some author’s reputation goes before them and there is no doubt. For instance, I doubt that you would worry about being led astray by Rev. Billy Graham.
As you read and study, pray each time and ask God for His guidance. Ask God to raise up flags if there are questionable thoughts and attitudes. He will lead you in the right direction.
You Might Start Here to Find Truth
The Women at our Church began a study of Nancy Demoss Wolgemuth’s updated and expanded book, Lies Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free. I would suggest that this book is an excellent resource to debunk Satan’s (and Society’s) lies.
Nancy wrote the first edition of this book ten years ago. But things have changed a lot and she wanted to speak on those changes and in some cases more clearly share her thoughts based on Biblical precepts.
45 Lies Exposed
Nancy exposes 45 lies that woman are accepting hook, line, and sinker today by bringing out scriptures that tell us the TRUTH. She divides them into several categories.
Lies about trusting God
Seeing Myself as God Sees Me
Understanding Sin
Setting Priorities
Understanding God’s Design for Sexuality (a completely new section written with the help of author Dannah 0resh)
Lies about Honoring God in My Marriage
Raising Children
Handling Emotions
Dealing With Circumstances
Walking in Freedom
Extensive Coverage of Satan’s Lies
As you can see, Nancy has covered it all rather extensively. And I would submit that the first topic of trusting God probably gets right to the basic problem. We don’t trust God with our lives. Do we REALLY believe that God is Good and that He loves us implicitly? Can we REALLY be complete in God?
Nancy will take you through the scriptures and prove point by point that Satan is a liar and the author of confusion. She will present to you the TRUTH and back it all up with God’s Word.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am not being paid to write this or being told what to say.
What Lies Are You Believing?
It’s likely that there is a chapter or two here for you. You may be surprised at which lies you have swallowed whole. I would encourage you to pick up this updated and expanded version of her book and start reading it soon.
Oh, and be sure to purchase the workbook along with it. This will help you go deep into The Word and Find the “Truth That Sets You Free”.
Finding the Truth in Him;
P.S. Have you read my other Nancy Demoss Wolgemuth book review?
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Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
My daughter celebrates her first year of marriage this Sunday. I’ve been wanting to share about her wedding gown all this time. Finally! Here’s the story starting at the beginning in 1957. Canton, Ohio
Mikaela and Ethan, May 18, 2018
The Bride Wore a Satin and Lace Wedding Gown
April 21, 1956 – East Sparta Methodist Church – The bride wore Satin and Chantilly lace with a cathedral length train and a fingertip veil. The gown was handmade by the bride, Elaine Easterday. (my mother). The hem was so long that she has all her bridesmaids come over and help her finish the hem before the wedding. She married a handsome dairy farmer, Gene Dawson, from Louisville, Ohio. They said “standing room only” with over 400 guests attending. {Mom said the cost was $36}
Gene & Elaine April 21, 1956
Off to Finish College
Gene had one more year at Ohio State University School of Agriculture. So they moved their few belongings down to Columbus, Ohio. Wedding gifts and such were packed away in the attic of the family farm. The gown was packed along with a few other special gowns in a cedar chest made by Gene’s brother, George.
The Dawson Farm in Lousiville, Ohio before 1957
Fire Destroys the Family Farmhouse
March 1957 Louisville, Ohio – Elaine went to the farm and collected a few serving items to throw a birthday party for her beloved husband. She was now expecting their first child. It was the last she would see of her wedding gifts as a few days later, a fire would engulf the 3 story home and gut it completely.
1957 after the fire
Upon surveying the damage, they saw the cedar chest high up on a beam. They knocked it down and it fell to the basement. The lid broke open to reveal her perfectly preserved wedding dress! No burnt ends or even the smell of smoke. (Just like Shadrack, Meshack, and Abednego! – Read Daniel 3)
The dresses were returned to the cedar chest and there they remained in the cedar chest for the next 32 years, except for a few times to just take a look. Like Mary’s little lamb, the chest went everywhere Gene & Elaine went. Their first home in Wooster, OH; Then two other rental farms in Louisville before moving back the homeplace. In 1975, the family, cows, and cedar chest moved to Cambria, Wisconsin.
Daughter Marries A “Farmer”
December 31, 1989 – Columbia, SC – Daughter, Amanda (me) marries Pastor Michael Farmer. Just a funny side note that has nothing to do with the gown, I said I would “NEVER marry a farmer or a pastor.” God has a sense of humor… I married Pastor Farmer. ha!
However, I always wanted to wear mom’s gown when I married; so I had mom bring it to me in Detroit, Michigan in October of 1989. We were together for my brother’s wedding. It was a bit snug on me but mom had left the seam allowances so a church friend, Gabriella, did the work to make it fit! {Cost: $36}
Mandy’s wedding day with mother, Elaine
Michael & Mandy 12-31-89
Michael & I married in West Columbia, SC on New Year’s Eve 1989 with over 300 in attendance. As we headed to San Deigo, CA for our honeymoon, Mom took the gown back to Wisconsin. We met them there a week later for a 2nd reception with the home folks.
Then we headed to Barnesville, GA were Michael was already pastoring. And the gown headed to the cleaners for preserving. {cost: $36} Michael & I did a bit of moving ourselves. And the gown followed us everywhere!
1990 – Chattanooga, TN
1992 – Savannah, GA
1997 – Milwaukee, WI
2003 – Moultrie, GA
2015 – Pooler, GA
Fifty Years Celebrated
April 2006 – Randolph Wisconsin – After 50 years of marriage, 6 kids, and many foster children a couple deserves a party, right? We planned a western event for my parents. Our youngest brother, Le, helped us three girls create a CD for our parents. It was entitled “For All You’ve Done”. I brought out the gown so that it could be displayed.
Mandy and her daughter at Mom and Dad’s 50th
Another Marriage Begins
May 19, 2018 – Savannah, GA – Mikaela and Ethan wed!
Mikaela in dress before alterations
Mikaela desired to wear the gown as well. She’s just a bitty thing and the gown swallowed her whole! We weren’t sure there was anything that could be down but we began searching for a seamstress.
.
.
But who do you trust with an heirloom such as this?
Fortunately, we found an awesome seamstress (in Waycross, GA) who is experienced with antique fabrics. She was excited and willing to update the dress to Mikaela’s style. At our first visit, Mikaela donned the wedding gown and told Mrs. Tammie what she would like. Mrs. Tammie pulled and pinned and tugged and offered ideas. Then we left the dress in her hands for about 3 months. (Hurricane Harvey plowed through Waycross during that time but the dress was safe.)
The Seamstress Works Her Miracle
January 2018 – First Fitting – It was hard to really visualize what Mrs.Tammie would do with the dress. But when Mikaela stepped from the dressing room tears filled our eyes and excitement filled our souls. {The cost this time, a bit more than $36.}
Ethan’s First Look
The wedding day arrived and sister-in-law, Tina drove to Waycross (about 2 hours) to fetch the gown. It was lovely. Just like Mikaela wanted. Her goal was to make her sweetheart cry. I believe, she succeeded as she entered the sanctuary on her daddy’s arm.
A huge thank you to Mrs. Tammie Thomas of Waycross, GA for doing the redesign. If you need alterations of any type, I definitely recommend her. And so did the girl trying on her third bridesmaid dress when we first arrived. The Okefenokee Living Magazine Spring 2017 featured Mrs. Tammie in their bridal Issue.
More story below…
Getting Married? Register on the Amazon Bridal Registry
Amazon Bridal Gift Registry
So Much Wedding Gown Fabric Left Over
Mom’s dress was so full. We had seemingly miles of unused fabric. So I started planning some repurposing. My first thought was a purse for Mom and I. And a small purse for Mikaela’s trousseau.
With plenty of fabric remaining still, I created a different style purse for my sisters who also have children preparing to marry. This gave each of us girls a part of mom’s dress to as a keepsake.
Still More Gown Fabric Left
The fabric seemed to multiply like the widow’s oil in 2 Kings 4:1-7. So, the next item we decided to make was a beautiful blessing gown for future grandbabies. No grandbabies will arrive in the near future, but I decided to make it now before the fabric ages more, or it gets lost. So I’ve gone to work on that. It will be waiting for any and all of the great grandbabies of Gene and Elaine to wear at their Baby Dedication. I found this free pattern and directions at See Kate Sew. I still have the finishing touches to do, but here’s what we have so far.
Will the Legend Continue? Who Knows?
The gown will return to it’s home in a cedar chest for years to come. You never know what could happen. But at this point, we have 93 years of good marriage represented in the gown.
Mom & Dad at 63 years, Mike & Mandy at 29 years, Ethan & Mikaela 1 year and we are all still counting.
I’m certain that you know an heirloom wedding gown does not a great marriage make. Below you will find some great reading that may help you in this matter.
Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Ephesians 4:29-30 (NLT)
A Godly Woman
I’m inspired by a godly woman from our church, Delores. A year or so before my illness, she lost her fight with stage 4 brain cancer. She was a vivacious lady around 60 years old living life to the full. She and her husband ran the local annual rodeo and a western store.
One Saturday evening, she laid down because she had a headache. The next thing you know, she was having a full-blown seizure. Soon afterward, we learned it was cancer. I have never seen someone have such a positive attitude. It was the most beautiful thing to see. She spoke life to the entire church during her journey to heaven. She would always tell us,Continue reading →
Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
As we approach Mother’s Day, I thought I’d give an extra bonus movie review. I’m always reminded of this old movie that my daughter and I found while homeschooling. We were learning about immigration at the time and came across this wonderful black & white movie based on the book, Mama’s Bank Account by Kathryn Forbes. {affilitate}
The story of Kathryn’s recollection of her life growing up being immigrants to America from Norway. She recalls all the ups and downs and financial struggles of being in a new land.
I Remember Mama – movie plot
Loosely based on Kathryn Forbes’ book -Mama’s Bank Account-, this film actually contains richer detail and more intricate characterizations. In turn-of-the-century San Francisco, young Katrina Hansen chronicles episodes of life with her extended family, who combine traditional Norwegian values with “modern” American ways. So successful that it became a popular radio show, and then a TV sitcom, both with Barbara Bel Geddes and Irene Dunne from the film.
It’s a wonderful movie for Mother’s Day because their mother was the rock in the family. You will also meet their quirky aunts and benevolent uncle. A heartwarming story.
Another Review
In the format of a story, aspiring writer Katrin Hanson recollects her life growing up in the early twentieth century San Francisco with her Norwegian immigrant family: her siblings Nels, Christine and Dagmar; and her Papa and Mama named Lars and Martha. Mama is the practical one in the family. One of the family’s rituals is doing the household financial accounts every Saturday night.
Using the money brought home by Papa and what is kept in their petty cash tin, Mama would allocate it to the weekly bills.
“It’s good – we do not have to go to the bank” is what Mama would say if they had enough money. Luckily, they never had to go to the bank as dipping into their bank account was the worst thing they could have done.
Beyond her practicality, Mama is truthful and compassionate and will do anything for those she loves. This not only includes her husband and children but also her “scary” Uncle Chris & her trio of sisters. – All four of whom can be difficult to love much of the time. – And their poor boarder, Mr. Hyde, who provides more to the family in his readings than any financial compensation ever could. But Katrin and her siblings learn of a lie told by Mama, all in the name of protecting them.
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Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
For as long as I can remember, my greatest desire was to be a mother. And why not? God blessed me with the greatest examples of motherhood that a girl could have. My own mother was a portrait of motherhood. She had 6 children and countless foster kids. And she loved them all well. She told us often how wonderful it was to have children. Unlike many women today, she dreaded the end of summer and sending her children off to school. She wanted them around her feet, pulling on her skirt tails. There was never any doubt that she was proud to be a momma.
Godly Grandmothers
And then there were my godly grandmothers. Oh my goodness, if I could live up to their lives I would be so proud, but that would just pull me down from the heights of glory because they were all of the humble kind.
One thing my Grandma Dawson was proud of was that I was her namesake. And once I learned what that meant, I was proud of it too. If you look at my father, uncles, and aunt you know that she was a great example of motherhood. She was a servant of God and man. At her funeral, my Uncle said, “You could always find her on her knees, either in prayer or serving others.
Grandma Dawson (Amanda Leona) was also named for her Grandmother Amanda Hukill. Though I never knew her, she left a legacy of perseverance and faith enough for all of us. I can look to her whenever I think I have had my share of trials because she dealt with more than I ever have.
So you can see that it was easy for me to want to be a momma myself. It seemed the greatest accomplishment to me, it still does. Early on, I began reading about others that have set an example that has passed the test of time. Jackie Green’s book Only One Life speaks of many women who have left a legacy for us. There are two Susanna’s that have stood out for me as perfect examples of motherhood (physically and spiritually), Susie Spurgeon, whom I have already written about and Susannah Wesley, mother of John and Charles Wesley.
Susanna, wife of Rev. Samuel Wesley, Sr. and educated herself stayed right up with her husband (and later, her sons) in theological studies, reading anything and everything in her husband’s library. Her husband traveled often to schools and preaching, leaving her to hold down everything at home. They report that while he was away if the substitute priest was not “up to par”, she would have Bible lessons that evening in her home. This grew quickly from just her small brood to include many of the church members.
Mother of Nineteen
Susanna Wesley had nineteen children but only 10 of them reached adulthood (two of which were John and Charles Wesley, founders of Methodism). It was important to her that her children, girls included, would be given an education and she did it. All of them began their formal education at home and the girls completed their education under her teaching. She determined to have a dedicated period of study time set aside for each child, individually, each week. (When I think about this now, and factor in that she was likely pregnant or nursing the entire time, I am amazed. Yikes!)
photo credit: Holinesstoday.org
Legacy of Discipline & Resilience
Susanna managed the gardening, cooking, and housekeeping along with the children’s studies. She kept a regular time set apart for meditation and self-examination before God, keeping of a spiritual journal and strict adherence to the Sabbath. Susanna, known as a great prayer warrior, with a houseful of activity, would pull her apron up over her head to pray; the signal for no interruptions. She expected the same devotion by her children.. to spend an allocated amount of time in Bible study and prayer. She wrote in a letter for her son Samuel:
I will tell you what rule I observed when I was young, and too much addicted to childish diversions, was this — never spend more time in mere recreation in one day than I spent in private religious devotions.
Eliza Clarke, Susanna Wesley (London: W.H. Allen & Co., 1886), 68
I have often read the writings of young people from earlier centuries and marveled at the depth of thought in young minds. Susanna’s practices, which came from the Puritan heritage, are how such depth of thought can be found. We all might take heed and learn from them.
www.holinesstoday.org
“Mother of Methodism”
Susanna Wesley, mother of Methodism. Not only because she was the Mother of the founding men, John & Charles, but because she kept up with her husband and sons in their studies. She remained deeply involved with them in establishing the Methodist Church. As I type this, I am realizing that her disciplines stated above were carried into the new Methodist movement. The worship style of Methodism is just that. Methodical and with reason. I also wonder if it wasn’t her Sunday afternoon lessons, that sparked the idea of Sunday School classes for better learning and further teaching. can teach
The Life and Legacy of Susanna Wesley leave much for us to learn and follow. I encourage you to do some research on your own and perhaps take one area to use as an example to follow. There are many sources available for purchase; however, most of what I write today comes from the magazine Holiness Today, September/October 2018 issue which can be read online.
Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
I’ve never really experienced pain. What is it like?
For me, it’s hard to imagine what NO PAIN is like. I have had pain most of my life. Some of it, I thought was just normal for everyone.. until I was diagnosed. I’ll try to explain below.
This post was updated and moved from Mandy previous webpage www.ggmandy.com
To really understand what is happening with Fibromyalgia, we need to understand how pain works. We have an amazing body. The whole system of how messages are sent through our body to the brain is remarkable to me. We have thousands, maybe millions of little tiny nerve endings that speak to each other and pass the message along. It’s mind-boggling how it works. But it’s a safety mechanism of sorts.
Each tiny nerve has a receptor on the end which “talks” to the connecting nerve receptor These messages move along the nerves until they reach the brain. Then the brain returns a message to tell your muscles how to handle it. It does this all with lightning quick speed. Think about if you were to touch a hot stove, your hand quickly pulls away. You don’t have to think about it. You don’t have to do anything, your body just responds. And this is wonderful.
However, with fibromyalgia, the nerve receptors are sending the wrong message.
Reminder: I am a patient, not a doctor. What I am sharing comes largely from what my doctors taught me and what I have discovered in my own searching.
I am sharing to hopefully help you be informed enough to support friends with this syndrome or possibly acquire informed questions for your doctor. Please talk with your doctor or visit the Mayo Clinic website for official information, diagnosis, and treatment.
Telephone Game – photo credit free at Pixabay.com
Remember when you were a kid and you played the telephone game? One would whisper a message to one person, then he whispers to the next one, and she whispers to the next, and so one. What happened by the end? The message was completely different.
Our bodies have nerve all over. Each nerve has a receptor on each end. These receptors pass the information along to the brain. Then the brain sends back a message on how to respond. Such as,
“No danger move on”
“That hurt a little”
“Good grief that hurt” Rub that spot a bit.
“severe pain” double over and scream
“You are in grave danger” “run, move quickly away”
This is how fibro pain works.
The nerve receptors are passing the message along, but then one receptor changes it up. And what was a small prick is now amplified. Like the dial on your radio, the more you turn it up, the louder it becomes. By the time the message arrives at the brain, it is telling the brain, “This is a severe situation”. So the brain responds in kind and sends the message back that something must change to stop the pain. But the receptors keep sending that PAIN message back to the brain.
Here’s an example we were given at Mayo Pain Clinic. When you put your socks on in the morning, at first you can feel your sock, but your brain says this is ok, not a problem. And after that, you are hardly aware that you have socks on. However, with fibromyalgia, the brain keeps sending the DANGER message. “There’s a sock on your foot!” “There’s a sock on your foot”
www.mayoclinic.org
Reminds me of this from Disney’s Monster’s Inc movie
With fibro pain, the message may just keep coming back as “DANGER” or the message is greatly amplified. [The pain can be multiplied by up to 200 times]. The brain receives the amplified message and responds accordingly.
This is why just a touch, a poke, or a hug can be so painful.
photo credit for all photos: Fibromyalgia and Lupus National Coalition Butterflies
This amplified sensation can affect not just the sense of feeling but also your sense of hearing, smelling, and taste. For myself, I have become less tolerant of noise, such as a roomful of children, or even a vacuüm cleaner running. And lately, I’ve even noticed that spicy food is spicier than usual. I recently wrote about some of the things I can no longer do in another post. Check out this diagram to see all the areas that can be affected by this amplified pain.
photo credit for all photos: FibroColors on Facebook
I hope this explains the pain for you. What’s really strange is that you never really know from day to day how the pain will be. Some days a quite normal. Others, not so much. Also, it depends on the person how much pain is involved. Different people respond differently to protocols for maintenance. Some are helped with medications, some with exercise, therapy, diet, etc. It’s all still pretty much a crapshoot.
Watch for more “letters” from me and my friends to learn more about this crazy invisible disease.
Writer/Speaker sharing about how to make it through anything. I married a pastor with two boys who just lost their mom, I homeschooled my own children, led children’s ministries and women’s ministries in the church, and founded and led a homeschool support group. Had to give up much of this due to chronic pain. Like the Insurance, I know a lot because I’ve seen a lot.
