Moments with MarLo

Finding out class assignments is one of those moments as a mom that causes me to become anxious as once again I long to always protect my little girl. We’re blessed to send Lydia to a private Christian school where the teachers are caring, the staff loves the students and the atmosphere helps her to grow academically as well as spiritually. Still, there is always a pause within my heart as we approach a new school year. The time where I find out how God has answered my prayers for her to placed in the right classroom for her. This year was no different as we drove towards the school, two bags of supplies in tow. Lydia was hoping to get the teacher she most desired and worried she wouldn't have any friends in her class. I was hoping she would get her wish while preparing for the worst by focusing on what I could possibly say to help the transition if she was disappointed. Both teachers are really good they just have very different personalities. I was certain either one would be gre...

Last Sunday near the beginning of church service the worship leader asked the congregation to leave the church and walk the neighborhood for the next 15 minutes to specifically pray for the families in the community. I loved the concept and eagerly set about the task. I stepped outside into the warmth of the sun and glanced around for a direction others weren’t already heading. Typically I love groups but this particular morning I felt the need to go it alone. As I began walking a smile spread across my lips. I enjoyed the vision before me of so many congregation members out walking around. It felt like communities of the past where families strolled together around the neighborhood. There was a sense of camaraderie knowing we were all out there to pray blessings over each home we passed. One of the first homes I began praying for had a length of black chain fas hioned around the front of the small yard. As I looked at the chains I was struck with how many of us live in bondage. We str...

Who would have thought a drive-thru meal could teach me a lesson on serving? Eating meals are an everyday act of service from which the whole family benefits. Still everyone who knows me eventually comes to realize I don’t cook. At least, I try all I can to avoid it. I’m not bad at it and yes I do enjoy the satisfaction that comes with providing a home-cooked meal to my family. It’s just to me cooking is an art and not something I’ve mastered. It’s the timing I get lost in. What do you start when so it all comes together without being undercooked, burned, or too cold? I’ve watched two amazing cooks growing up, my mom and my grandmother. Now these two ladies can COOK! In fact, if there was a Cooks Hall of Fame I would nominate both of them. I’ve seen them master the nuances of both big and small meals with a finesse that puts Paula Dean and Rachael Ray to shame. Lucky for me when it comes to my family’s meals I still rely on my amazing mom and her culinary talents. And when she’s not av...

One of the things I love about blogging is the exchange of ideas that takes place; after all, what mom can't use a new idea every now and then! If you are interested in a blog that brings a group of mommy bloggers all to one place, stop by and visit the Hearts at Home blog . Hearts at Home's contributing bloggers write about motherhood, each with a unique perspective, reflecting on the spiritual, emotional and downright funny aspects of motherhood. Their group of bloggers range from professional speakers to authors to stay-at-home moms, all who share a passion for the profession of motherhood. The Hearts at Home blog covers a variety of topics, such as practical mom tips, recipes, book reviews, and advice for tackling tough mommy issues. Take a peek at this great resource and connect with real moms sharing real stories today!

Motherhood is a valid profession. It is that belief that inspired Jill Savage and a group of women to plan the first Hearts at Home conference 16 years ago. Today these conferences are a place where moms can go to find the encouragement and education they need to do this mothering thing right! The problem is, not everyone can attend a Hearts at Home conference, so Hearts at Home University was created! Hearts at Home University is a new resource designed to encourage and equip you in your journey as a parent! These live web casts, affordably priced at $15 each, allow you to tap into continuing education as a mom on a regular basis right from the comfort of your own computer. The topics that will be covered over the Spring and Summer Semester include: “Is There Really Sex after Kids” with Jill Savage “She’s Gonna Blow” with Julie Barnhill “Redefining Romance” with Mark and Jill Savage “Keeping Your Ducks in a Relative Row” with Karen Ehman For information on dates and times, or to regis...

My cousin Allison's son, Kevin had a conversation with his Nana. The following is her description of the interaction between the two of them. May you enjoy his view. I had Kevin overnight by himself a few weeks ago. Kevin stayed with us Saturday night, so of course went to Sunday school with us. For some reason, conversations on the drive back to Bloomington can sometimes be challenging. Kevin tries so hard to make sense of the world. Kevin- Nana, when I was born were there dinosaurs? Nana- No, the dinosaurs were already dead. (I look back in the mirror and see the wheels turning.) K- When Jesus was born were there dinosaurs? N- No, he didn’t get to see the dinosaurs either. They were already gone. (Wheels are still turning.) A minute passes. K- It must have been hard for God to make the long-neck dinosaurs, cause he had to bolt all those neck bones together. N- I think you're right, Kevin. But God can do the really hard jobs. Another minute or two pass. K- It must have be...

One of the best things about attending and volunteering at the Hearts At Home conference is the opportunity to gain a fresh perspective. In fact the conference is quickly replacing my New Year resolutions. I gain an abundance of information throughout the weekend helping me to find focus for the upcoming months. I determine to work harder on my marriage and my relationship with my daughter. I also connect with friends I only get to see at the conference and I usually walk away with one or two new friends. This year my heart (and my head) are full of thoughts regarding how to maintain my focus this year. Rather than starting strong only to find I didn't make it past April I want to put together a more intentional plan that will at least carry me until the end of the year. But this plan takes more than me. It takes conversations with my husband, accountability with my family and yes, even a willingness to speak openly with my friends who I know will support and encourage me along the...