Coffee CubBuster

Gluttony comes to mind when imagining how many other populations in the world view the American lifestyle, especially around the holidays. The over indulgence of food, excess of waste, and piles of material gifts can seem a bit ridiculous when juxtaposed with those "less fortunate" whom we strive to "help" around the holiday season. However, the trend to purge, cutback, fast, and give up after January 1 tells of our subconscious recognition of the problem. I hear statistics of stress, anxiety, and depression during and after the holidays, and I can only imagine that we as a culture have strayed unintentionally from purpose and truth. Why do we want to engage in constant gift-giving, treat-eating, and slander-speaking around a time meant for peace, joy, and love? Well, because if we are honest, none of those previous gerunds (grammatical term- a form derived from a verb but functions as a noun, ending in - ing) are meant to insight gluttony. We desire to spread lov...

We preach that it's not about "getting" but "giving" because God gave His son, and Jesus gave his whole life, but I feel like I already "got" the best Christmas present this year:  Levi starting to walk! At almost two years old, Levi mentally understands the dangers of falling, so I believe he could be cruising around if he had more confidence, but I'll take what I can get! He's growing, and I am just grateful to see my boys growing together! No matter how many hours of sleep escape us this Christmas, I am so excited to relive the joy and excitement of the season through their sweet, young eyes. The classic (and perfect rainy day) activity, Levi enjoyed some gumdrops and M&Ms this year too! Roe's favorite position- one hand on his cheek. Silas says he's always thinking! Fun to have a winter baby this time. No fans, just bundles and blankets! Boys can't stay inside, no matter how wet or cold! Haven...

My daily hours are consumed with repetitious tasks, such as wiping the bottoms of three small boys, wiping sticky fingers and sticky floors, and wiping a nose, a scraped toe, or the a occasional tear from an angry eye. Despite the fact that these seem mentally monotonous, by the grace of God, my love of learning hasn't been stifled. My children continue to teach me so much more than a book ever could. If you've ever seen Home Alone (my favorite Christmas classic), you have seen a snapshot of my soon-to-be four year-old. The scene with the neighborhood kid who bombards the airport van driver with unrelated and irrelevant questions, and later causes the entire confusion of the large-family headcount by sitting in the family's rented vehicle is literally the comical doppelganger of my sweet Silas. The constant stream of questioning can be hysterical if I sit back and listen, but too often I lose my sense of humor and lash out with impatient frustration. Silas certainly helps...

I saw an advertisement yesterday for a new "smart" something, and while I don't remember the details of the actual product, I distinctly recall the irony of the ad: "If you have something to say, this is all you need..." Without any hesitation, I can assure you that three minutes with my three year-old, and you will disagree with the advertisement. Most people don't need anything to encourage them to say something. In fact, we all have too many outlets for our opinions right now. (I'm calling my coffee kettle black right now as blogs are the perfect example.) Social media has afforded a huge canvas for monologues. I do not mean to always bash social media, but I would love to see a better tech tool designed to facilitate true dialogue. I think we are missing that "smart" thing that will encourage us to listen to one another instead of simply talking until we are too blue to see our own faces in the script. As the only female among a four male ...

You know those moments when thank you or gratitude does not seem to capture the essence of your heart. The words seem trite compared to the indescribable fullness that your cup of life contains. You are overflowing with true appreciation, but there aren't any words besides thank you, thankful, or thanksgiving readily available. Well, I feel as though I have more to be thankful for this year than most. We've had our share of familial setbacks and uncertainties lately, but to have all three of our children home, free of a hospital setting, and continuing to grow is a gift beyond words. Not to mention we maintain blessings others never enjoy, such as shelter, warmth, full bellies, and all our daily needs met. It gives me a saddened heart for those sitting in hospital beds this year, or those lost in the cold, those bitter with rage or disillusioned with society, or those simply apathetic and alone. May we reach out in love to everyone we encounter this season. Instead of our short...