Afraid of Food

Author’s note:  This may have a sarcastic tone, but I really do have big questions about the foods we are putting into our bodies and how to strike a balance that works for our family.

 

photo from:guardianlv.com

I have started to become afraid of food.  Granted, I’ve been sick and sleep deprived for several days.  So this topic may just not bother me as much as when I am well and functioning as “normal”.

The food issue really did start a few years back at my house.  I will blame it on Netflix.  Many of you who have watched the variety of food related documentaries know exactly what I’m talking about.  For a season, we really tried to cut out meat, I started weaning out dairy, and the list of “no-no” foods seemed to be growing by leaps and bounds. Eventually I gave up on most of those changes.

Then I started hearing about GMO (genetically modified organism) food and just how many of our dietary staples that they have invaded.  Red dye, I hear, causes behavioral disorders in kids and Oreos are now scientifically as addictive as crack.

Being sick and couch ridden, I was channel surfing and came across a Dr. Oz episode that talked about nitrates and how they are linked to pancreatic cancer.  And surely you’ve heard about the pesticides covering our fruits and vegetables and the “10 Ten List” of those produce items that we must buy organic.

And don’t get me started on sugar.  I love it, but it’s evil.  Good luck eliminating that from your diet! Diet/sugar-free drinks and products—they are out too.  But I’m sticking with the studies that promote coffee drinking.  You’ve got to allow me at least one pleasure. 

I’m not a big fan of tofu.  I can handle it in small doses, and my kids sure don’t like it.  It doesn’t take long for me to get sick of beans.  Green leafy veggies are great, but I can’t afford to buy most of those organic, so am I eating, or fighting cancer?

Am I the only one who is weary of how broken and damaged our food system has become?  I would love some honest input into how your family handles food, and what it costs you (monetarily or emotionally).

Tonight for dinner I’m ready for some comfort food (in moderation of course).  I’m making a ham (nitrates), low-calorie scalloped potatoes (dairy and some other toxins I’m sure) and green beans (wait, are those safe?).  Tonight we celebrate my sister’s anniversary and I’m pretty sure my mom will bring a cake.  I’m going to eat it!

So, on the cusp of Christmas food madness, I want to know: Are you afraid of food?

Open letter to 30-somethings

 

To my fellow 30-somethings,

How is life treating you? Hopefully, you are healthy, employed and have your needs met.  If you have been especially fortunate, you’ve married your love and have a few children to boot.

You marvel at the fact that you’ve just had, or are on the cusp of having your 20th High School reunion.  How did we get this old?  We still feel young, yet our knees are starting to ache a bit. 

Family and career likely dominate all of your waking hours. Stress is a part of your wardrobe and you’ve developed an unhealthy attachment to your smart phone. 

When you collapse at the end of the day, you “tweet” about the program you are watching on TV to a few hundred “friends”.  You ache for the time to have real friendships with real people who really care about you.  Instead, you scroll through your best Facebook pictures and quickly whip up a digital Christmas card to send out to the masses. 

I feel your frustration.  I too get caught up in this cycle.  Yet, when I’m able to step back and view life from a more eternal perspective, I question why it is that I’ve consumed my time with the worry and activity that fills my days. 

At this point, many of you will look ahead and see that there is still too much to read in the time you have available, and give up.  That’s ok, I understand.  For those that will hang in there, I hope to give you something worth thinking about.

I’m fortunate in that my job reminds me to stay “heavenly” minded.  Working for a Christian broadcaster, the goal is constantly to point people to Christ—through a variety of different programs.  I get the opportunity to see the refreshment that washes over someone as they hear that there is hope.

Statistically, it’s very likely that you are experiencing financial, marital, psychological or physical distress.  You now realize that you don’t have all the answers and you are seeking a God that you may have spent many years running away from.  Suddenly talk radio or Christian television doesn’t seem like something only your grandparents would want to hear/see. 

Admittedly, Christian broadcasters have a lot of work to do.  We aren’t as polished as our secular counterparts.  We can’t come close to competing with the tech and production that well-funded mass media outlets have. 

Our message is simple, without a lot of plot twists and with a lack of CG effects.  Nothing will blow up (God willing) and you won’t need 3D glasses.  But, the underlying message is enough to turn your life around and cause you to see things very differently.

If you haven’t already, I would encourage you to tune in and be challenged.  Don’t watch or listen expecting a Spielberg production. Come instead with a tender heart, allowing yourself to consider what or who you stand for.  Contemplate the values that you want your children to learn.  Ponder what your eternal future holds.

If (or when) you feel that heart tug, reach out to have a conversation with that friend you may have let fall by the wayside--the one you remember as being too “religious”.  Ask them questions (heck, challenge them to really know what they stand for). 

30-somethings, let’s stand together and be counted as a generation who stood against the current.  Let’s be set free from debt, depression, addiction and pain.  As the “Greatest Generation” passes away, let’s rise up and take their place as a group of individuals standing for truth and righteousness.  And let’s do it together—face to face, arm in arm, and only if necessary, tweet to tweet.

With love and hope,

Birga

 

Identity in Christ

A quick glance through the headlines reveals a disturbing number of sexually themed stories.  Web “news” outlets are quick to report on who Justin Bieber was intimate with, how sexually charged Lady Gaga’s stage performance was, etc. Yet it’s not just confined to the celebrity world.  We see school officials arrested on child pornography charges, church leaders caught in scandal and politicians accused of adultery.

The human race has fallen very deeply into the trap and lies of the enemy.  Believing that our sexuality defines us, we buy clothing, makeup and fragrances that promise to improve our sex appeal.  We watch romantic comedies and laugh off the infidelity, or worse yet, long to have such an “exciting” life. We easily grow dissatisfied with our spouse and ache from the monotony of life.    

Trouble comes quickly when we don’t recognize who we are in Christ.  When our job, financial status or sexuality become our labels, we overwrite the truth about who/what God says we are.  While your business card may read Vice President, CEO or Accountant, none of those titles explain who you are.  On the eternal time line, no one will care if you made $100,000 annually.  You certainly wouldn’t introduce yourself to a stranger saying “Hi, I’ve had 3 sexual partners this week.”

Unfortunately, not only do we forget who we are, we also forget Who we should be counting on to meet our needs.  When we look to find fulfillment from our jobs, spouses, children or friends, we burden others with needs that God Himself wants to meet.  The pressure of trying to meet the spiritual needs of your loved one places an incredible stress on the relationship.  No wonder our society is such a mess.

Spend time in God’s Word and begin to explore who He says you are.  Examine the promises that He’s made to meet your needs.  Let these truths begin to reshape your thinking.  If you allowed God to compose and print your business cards, what would they say?  A thought or two for you to ponder.

 

Birga Alden

Daughter of the Most High King

“Redeemed, Forgiven, Made Holy and Cherished”

 

 

When going to work costs you

I've always wanted to be in the movies.  It's a "secret" ambition of mine.  The fantastical, magical process of having the "raw" turned into a story of grand proportion has always fascinated me. 

When it came time to declare a major in college, for a brief moment, I considered Acting.  Being the very logical person that I am, I quickly dissuaded myself, speculating how many acting majors now work at Burger King.  Broadcast, I figured, would be the next best (sensible) choice.  I then set out to become a news anchor. 

Now, 14+ years after having graduated from college, I'm proud to say that I do work in the Broadcast industry.  However, In His infinite wisdom, God didn't allow me to make it to the TV anchor's desk.  Looking back, I can clearly see that had I been given my way, I would have fallen deeply into the trap of chasing fame and fortune.

My professional journey started humbly, and has stayed humble.  I was hired on as Morning Show co-host for AM730 KDAZ, a Christian Talk Station early in 2007.  The audience is not large, the signal is not particularly strong, and the job brings me no popularity.  Now, nearly 7 years later, I'm still at AM730 and consider it my second home.  I love my work "family" and count it an honor to serve among them.

Though I never made it to the "big time", God has taught me so much in these years.  It's not easy working for a Christian station/ministry.  Pay is scarce, and it requires a lot of personal sacrifice.  This isn't wining, just the truth of the matter. 

It would be a lie to say that I've always been satisfied with my position.  I've struggled, prayed, complained and looked at the grass on the other side. It is through these times of struggle that the Lord has confirmed in my heart that I'm right where I need to be. 

These last three weeks I've been involved in a number of work project.  Developing a theme and corresponding documents for our annual banquet have taken much of my time.  "At All Cost" will be the focus of our 30th Anniversary celebration in January.  Based on Matthew 13:45-46, the message is coming out loud and clear: we are entering a time where it may cost us greatly to stand on God's Word and remain faithful to His call.  Are we willing "at all cost" to lay down our comfort to live out what we believe?  I have no doubt that we will all be tested on this in the days to come. 

These sounds like dark and sinister words, but God is always good and always faithful! While the cost to follow Him may be high, His reward(s) are always worth it.  Remember, though the merchant sold all that he had, he did so because he saw the value of that pearl.  It was a calculated move, and one that paid him great dividends. 

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.  When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it." 

A Sound Mind

Photo credit:Jennie Sanford

 

 

 

Working in radio, I'm constantly being exposed to news stories--most of them negative.  Just today, we've had to talk about/deal with the implementation of Obamacare, earthquakes, terror attacks, religious persecution and the decline of public education.  It's enough to make you crazy.  If you think too far ahead, it's easy to get fearful. 

 

I've often commented that I've had to use scripture as a type of "mantra" to refresh my negative thinking with the truth of God's Word.  I'm not talking about mysticism or eastern religious philosophies, but rather (as Wikipedia puts it) a word, or group of words that is considered capable of "creating transformation."

 

I need a mind transformed.  I need thinking that is not of this world.  I need the hope that comes with putting my trust in the King of Kings. 

 

For those that don't share my belief in Christ, this whole blog string probably appears to be silly, superstitious nonsense.  I'm sure there are a growing number of people who now discredit me as being one of those"crazy religious people."  Nothing could be farther from the truth.  I would argue that my faith is logically, factually and historically grounded. 

 

Scripture repeatedly talks about the benefits of being aligned with the wise, fleeing foolishness, avoiding extremes and being of a sound mind.  Admittedly, these directions are easier to quote to others than to live out personally. 

 

The encouragement found in 2 Timothy 1 served as a great refreshment to me today.  You can hear the heart of Paul, pouring out direction and blessing on Timothy, who seems to have needed a kind word. 

Today, you may be like Timothy, needing someone to speak truth into your life, helping you remember the promises of God.  If so, take a moment to read through this first chapter, and replace his name with your own. 

 

If however, you find yourself in a place of strength and stability, be a Paul to someone you come across. Encourage them and equip them to carry on.  This life can make you weary, and we all need a spiritual boost from time to time. 

 

Let us work together as the Body, linking arm in arm, striving to cross that finish line.  Take the time you need to be alone with the Father, seeking a sound mind, grounded in Him. Then, team up with the believers who He has placed in your path.  Be blessed this day to carry on the work that He has called you to do!



Bummer Birthday Party

Over the weekend, my soon to be 12 year-old had a sleepover birthday party.  The expectation of what the night would be like had been built up in her mind for weeks.  When the actual party got underway, it became apparent that it wasn't what she had imagined.  A few of the girls kept to themselves, buried in ipods/ipads and didn't really get into the party "spirit". 


Photo credit: Relevant Magazine.  www.relevantmagazine.com

The next morning afforded me the opportunity to have a conversation with her in regard to what true friendship looks like. Godly friendships are become more rare in our culture, and I really wanted her to have a deep understanding of what it means to be a friend, and what to look for in a friend. 

The disappointment she felt is something that I could easily relate with.  I too have a tendency to create a fantasy in my mind about what an event/relationship/situation will be like, only to find that reality is much less glamorous and far more "human".  The entertainment industry does us a huge disservice when it depicts relationships through the lens of Romanic Comedies, and friendships in the vein of "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants". 

Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, etc. all provide an illusion of friendship and community.  They can be fun and helpful tools, but we have to guard our hearts against the temptation of replacing an often messy relationship based life, with an on-line mirage.

Here are a few verses on friendship worth considering:

"A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends."  Proverbs 16:28

"Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared."  Proverbs 22:24, 25

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up.  But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!" Ecclesiastes 4: 9,10

So, whether you or your child are struggling with friendship, I encourage you to seek out examples of what healthy relationships look like (through God's eyes).  Avoid the temptation to escape into the online world of friends and fantasy.  While it may provide a great distraction or (on the positive side) the ability to connect with those outside of your community, it will be hard for any of these relationships to pick you up when you've fallen down.  Seek out and pour yourself into those messy, face to face relationships.  They won't always have a Hollywood hue to them, but they will have profoundly (eternally?)  more value than relationships that can be created or dissolved by the click of a keyboard mouse. 

Job Description

So, I've completed one full week of the new work schedule.  For the most part, it's gone smoothly.  Part of my new duties have included learning how to more effectively utilize Facebook and other social media outlets for the benefit of Son Broadcasting Network.

With the goal of encouraging participation in the Morning Show, I published an opinion piece that dealt with the topic of abortion protesting.  I put it on Facebook, and was hoping for some respectful dialogue either by comment or calls into the radio station.

There were a few comments made, directed at me personally, that really hurt.  Truthfully, I shed some tears over them.  I am tender hearted and it's a struggle for me when people don't understand or attack my position.

Now that the "storm" has passed, I'm able to step back and take a more objective look at what transpired.  While I can't do much about my emotion responses to hurt, I can prepare myself for future conversations that will undoubtedly take place with those who don't agree with my position.

As this world continues to drift away from Biblical values, it is only logical to assume that an ever increasing number of peers/listeners will take up positions that are in direct opposition to my value system.  Will I be able to clearly and respectfully defend my position?  Can I shine the light of Truth into a dark world?

A requirement of my job at the radio station is to stay up with news, and communicate the information effectively to those listening.  I can think of no better mentor from whom to learn this skill than Jesus.  He spoke to his audience the truth of God's Word, using stories that the people would understand. 

I'm no Jesus. I stumble over my words. I make bad analogies.  I sometimes get self focused and speak from the flesh.  But I always want to learn, and put into practice a better way!  Communication may be my degree field and my profession, but shouldn't it be in the "job description" of all believers in Christ?

We are called to be witnesses to the world of the Love and Salvation that comes through Him.  I encourage you to read the full story that unfolds in Acts 4.  I'll close with a few verses that served to be a great encouragement to me today:

Acts 4:26-29
"The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One.  Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed.  They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen.  Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. . . "

Our new normal

Many months ago when we were talking through schedules and the school days to come, it became apparent that I needed to be home in the morning hours.  After much prayer, job searching, and fretting (I'm not proud of that part), we have an answer to our family's needs--a different work schedule.
I'm so thankful to my boss(es) who made it possible for me to stay at Son Broadcasting.  While I used to be in the office by 5:45am, I now have the opportunity to get my girls ready for school, and join my co-host Dan for the second hour of the Morning Show, arriving at work just before 8am. 
I can already tell that this is going to require a great deal of adjustment for many.  It's honestly strange to be at home and see the family before I leave for work.  I have to work out a new personal morning schedule that will allow me a quite time to read/pray/think.  I want to be able to exercise, and get ready for the day somewhere in there as well.
The tween drama is rampant at my house, and the early morning hours seem to be a breeding ground for stressful interaction.
Coming into work "late" is also a strange sensation.  This morning, I had to fight the feeling that I just didn't belong anymore. 
God is good, and He will help us all fall into a new rhythm.  There will be different tasks for me to accomplish both at home and at work.
But until the new schedule starts to feel second nature, I will take it a day at a time.  Thanks to all of you who have been praying with/for me as we've strived to seek the Lord's will.

Praying while the world goes mad

We have been "home churching" for about 8 years.  It started as an invitation to join a Sunday morning gathering of a few families who wanted to study, pray and worship in a home rather than a church building.  The group was comprised of a former pastor, stay at home moms, science professionals, laborers, etc.  I loved the people, but couldn't get over the distraction of having my kids within sight/earshot during "church".

Where we have met, how we've dealt with childcare, time of day, even day of the week has changed in the 8 years as our home church has fluctuated.  Needless to say, we found something that worked and continue to gather this way these many years later.

Last night as we met, I marveled at all that had transpired over the years with our group.  There have been births, graduations and a marriage.  There have been personal triumphs and agonies.  New jobs, new homes, new members and new challenges have all been realities these past few years.

One thing that has remained consistent is the madness of the world around us.  We have often discussed the times in which we live, and prayed for those affected by loss and pain.  We have at times donated money or efforts to help a situation.

There have been those in our group who have gone out onto the mission field, ministering to the homeless, desperate and broken.  We've cooked meals, visited the sick and worked on behalf of those who needed our help.

Actions are important, no doubt about it.  However it has been our experience that the power of prayer is real and often has much more impact that a kind gesture ever can.

God has been so faithful to answer prayer.  It hasn't always been immediate, nor has the answer come in the way/form in which we asked. The answers have come though, and they have changes lives.  Sickness and pains have been healed.  Homes have been bought and sold, babies have been conceived, the pain after loss has been comforted and broken relationships have been restored. 

Skeptics may say that time would have taken care of all these things "naturally".  Perhaps, but ask for the specific example from the people whose lives were directly impacted, and they will show you how the fingerprints of God were all over the situation from start to finish.

This morning, as I wake to news of 100 dead in a Chinese earthquake, the capture of the Boston Marathon bomber and the rape of a 5 year old girl, I can make a choice.  I can become overwhelmed with the evil and madness of our time, or I can pray. 

I imagine many will scoff at what they deem to be a foolish waste of time.  I would argue that it is both Biblical and wise to take time praying.  I have seen too many times the evidence of answered prayer to do anything less. 

Our simple prayers to a limitless God are making an impact.  Ask Him for yourself and allow Him the perfect time/way in which to answer.  Expect to be surprised with the end result. 

Project in the works

Happy Monday!
My blogging downfall is lack of consistency.  I have things on my heart that burst out regularly, but putting those experiences down on "paper" is a whole other issue.
It is with excitement, nervousness and joy that I wish to share the news that I have a new project in the works.  Much like a pregnancy, this will likely take many months to grow and mature.  When it will be birthed is yet to be seen. 
I've always wanted to write a book, but never felt that I had a story of my own that others would want to read.  After prayer and contemplation, I think my job is not to tell my story, but that of others. 
Without spilling all the beans, I'll let you know that this project combines three of my passions: faith, story telling and cooking. 
I am beginning the process of collecting names and email addresses of missionaries who are serving abroad.  If you know someone who is an active missionary that might be willing to share their story with me (by email or Skype), I'd be thankful for the referral.  I hope to highlight the work that they are doing.  If there are safety concerns, I would of course be cautious and would never write/publish anything to compromise them.
Thanks for your help and prayers.  I look forward to a regular blogging presence as evidence of a project in process!
Blessings,
Birga

A big "Thank You"

It's been several weeks since our return from Israel, and I realize that I haven't taken the time to write a message to express my thankfulness for all those who prayed for, and contributed toward our trip.
It was a journey that we will not soon forget.  Thank you a thousand times over!

We flew into Tel Aviv and had a day spent at the beach.  It was great to be near the ocean again.  It was all the more interesting as we got to Israel for the start of the holiday, Purim, where many kids (and adults) were in costume.  I even came across a costume surfing contest.

The bulk of our time was spent in Jerusalem.  Over the 6 nights we stayed there, we had three different lodging arrangements.  The first four nights we stayed at a small bed and breakfast that hosted a dozen or so guests from all over the world.  It was a unique opportunity to talk with them about why they had each made the journey to Israel.

 

 

The next two night were spent at the King Solomon Hotel, with the members of Team Just One Life.  There were 7 (I think) who had traveled from the U.S., and several locals who had all raised funds on behalf of Just One Life, a crisis pregnancy center in Jerusalem.  There was a time to meet the staff of JOL, as well as a pre-run pasta party where we got an opportunity to meet two of the ladies who had been served through this tremendous organization.

 

All said and done, the group raised close to $40,000 to benefit Just One Life and the mothers that they serve.  It was an incredible blessing to be able to work toward the fundraising/running goals and to be able to accomplish so much for these precious ladies. 

 

Bob completed the half-marathon and I finished the 10k.  The run was the most physically challenging event I had ever done.  The course was so hilly and by the time I crossed the finish line I was spent.  It was a rewarding exhaustion. 

 

 

 

The trip was fantastic and a blessing through and through.  I know most of you don't have time to read a lengthy blog post, so I will leave the report short and sweet.  I'm always happy to meet up for coffee if you would like a more lengthy description of all we saw and did. 

 

Again, thank you!  Your investment is making a life-changing impact!

 









It wasn't for me

This morning as my co-host and I were on the air, one of the ladies from our office came in holding a vase of roses, a Valentine's bag and a big balloon.  She set them on my desk and said she was the "delivery lady".  I was really excited, until she said they were for Dan. 

I felt pretty darn foolish.  After all, I had told my husband that he shouldn't get me anything as we are going to a Valentine's banquet (tomorrow), and then to Israel next week!  We need to be saving money, and flowers and balloons are just a waste of money.  Or are they?

Prices for Valentine's Day are so over inflated.  A dozen roses that last week were $9.99 are now $20 (or more).  Nothing changed except the day on which they are given.

I try to fight against the mentality that gifts are an indicator of value or love.  It's not even really my love language. 

As defined by Dr. Gary Chapman, the love languages include: acts of service, quality time, gifts, physical touch, and words of affirmation.  My husband is physical touch, I'm acts of service.

I guess the Valentine's letdown came from thinking my hubby hadn't spent the time (not money) to plan a surprise.  He could have popped into the office with a can of tuna and I would have been happy that he had gone out of his way. 

Don't get me wrong--I'm not going to hold a grudge.  I'm not going to pout and make him feel guilty.   I guess I'm just going to be more aware in the future, when I tell him not to get me anything, to be honest about what I really mean--that I don't need him to spend money, but do need him to take the time to think of me and let me know I'm loved. 

Love languages are tricky things--it's hard to think outside the parameters of what makes you feel loved.  But, it's well worth it when you invest the time and effort to communicate in such a way that makes the other person feel that they are worth

Does my mission trip count?

A few months back, my boss came in and told me that I had been suggested to serve as a representative for Son Broadcasting Network in a race in Israel.  Floored and excited, I expressed that I would be honored, but it really was my husband who was the runner in the family.  A few phone calls later, and my husband and I were both encouraged to go.
We will be participating in different events under the auspices of the Jerusalem Marathon.  My husband will run the half-marathon, and I'll do the 10K (a knee injury interrupted my training schedule and led to the need for less mileage).

We will be running in support of a crisis pregnancy center in Jerusalem called "Just One Life".  This organization has been working for the last 20 years to provide help and hope for families that find themselves with very difficult choices to make surrounding an unexpected pregnancy.  13,000+ children later, it is abundantly apparent that their work is needed and serving so many Israeli families.

This trip really is a gift from the Lord.  I had the opportunity to visit Israel in 2009 with a media tour, and my prayer had been for an opportunity to go back with my husband.  Now that prayer is a reality.

I have been so excited, and felt God moving throughout the process of planning, promoting and raising funds for Just One Life.  Even with my knee injury, I've seen the favor that I've been given and I've had a doctor who has been treating me weekly with electrical stimulation simply because he want to see me succeed.

I trust that He is going to put us in contact with those we need to see, talk with those who need a word of hope, and run along side those who question why we would travel half way around the world to stand with an Israeli crisis pregnancy center. 

Though much of this trip will be more vacation like, there will be days when we will have the opportunity to share the story of why we are there, hopefully touching hearts along the way.  I was fired up about the blessing and "mission" opportunity God had given us, until . . .

Comparison is a killer.  We were chugging along with our plans when I heard of a dear friend who was going on a mission trip to Haiti.  They would work with the poor and sick, help orphans, etc.  Suddenly, our "mission" opportunity paled in comparison--big time!  I piled a good dose of doubt and condemnation on my own head. 

We are going to stay in a B&B for a few nights, then move onto a fancy hotel.  We get to spend several days as husband and wife taking in the sights of Jerusalem.  Some mission trip!

I had to stop my train of thought.  It was going down the wrong track, and fast.  I had been handed a beautiful gift.  Instead of spending every day thanking Him and blessing His name, I wallowed into a bog of comparative filth. 

Let this serve as a word of caution: comparing your anything with anyone/thing else will quickly steal your joy, and rob you the opportunity to serve in your full capacity.  That you Lord for snapping me out of that mindset! 

So we charge on.  Ready to leave in a few short weeks.  Ready to listen and act on the promptings that the Lord stirs in our hearts.  Ready to run and give the glory to the Lord. Ready to let my life serve as a mission field--in Albuquerque, Israel or anywhere He places me.

If you'd like to learn more about our trip you can visit here: http://www.teamjustonelife.org/my/birgaandbob

If you'd like to check out my friend's trip to Haiti, visit here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Becky-Maggie-to-Haiti/449043931828087?ref=ts&fref=ts

Writing a Will at 35

My husband and I are getting ready to travel to Israel.  We've been invited to participate in a race in order to raise funds and awareness for a crisis pregnancy center in Jerusalem.  This trip is a blessing through and through.  I have no expectations or fears that we will be in any kind of danger.

However, with both of us leaving the country, I've been advised to write a Will.  I'm only 35!  The chances of harm befalling both me and my husband are very slim, but I do have to think about my kids in the event of the "what if?". 

Contemplating who would care for my children for the next 10 years has been agonizing.  Thank goodness we have four solid possibilities of immediate family members who could step in in the event of an emergency. 

While I may have complained about many aspects of parenting in the past (and will likely struggle through issues in the future) I am so glad that I've been selected to be the mother of my two beautiful girls!

I know the looks, the smarty-pants remarks, the worries, fears and joys that make them who they are.  I know how often their fingernails need to be cut, the songs they sing along to and the friends they keep.  I am their Mama.

When we go out for our occasional $1 Boba Tea Tuesdays, I am reminded that this is our special time.  When my 9 year old wakes me up at night because she is afraid, I want to be there.  When my eldest struggles through her reading, I want to hear it.

Parenting is hard.  It's even harder if you are trying to do it in order to train future Godly adults.  After today's doctor's appointment and strep culture, I will be thankful for my job.  When I take pictures of molding potatoes for a 4th grade science project, I will hold my breath but appreciate the chance to be an active part.  I choose to celebrate motherhood in the good times and bad.

Thank you God for today and for every day you allow me to be a Mother!