One morning, while brushing my teeth, I looked up and saw my mother staring back at me in the mirror. I was so startled I swallowed some toothpaste. How could this be? Without haste, I ran into my bedroom and the sight of what I found stopped me dead in my tracks. I was standing in what appeared to be my mother’s bedroom. The shoes, the clothes, the décor all said “dear ole mom.” As I gaze around my eyes catch a glimpse of myself in the full length mirror. I squinted hard and ever so gingerly I turned around. I dare not look with both eyes so I peek out with one at the reflection in the mirror. There it was….right there in front of me…well behind me really. My mother’s butt!

I distinctly remember making a pact with myself at 11 years old that I would never become my mother. I vowed never to wear comfortable shoes, lose touch with the top 40, or embarrass my daughter by asking her friends silly questions. Yet, there I stood in comfortable shoes, unable to name one pop tune to save my life and about to ask my daughter’s friend if her mother will be home while my daughter visits. I look to the left and see my 11 year old daughter standing next to me. I can see on her face what she is thinking for I once stood in her place with the same expression as I vowed never to become my mother. Helpless to stop the giggle from becoming audible; I think of the day my daughter will look in the mirror and see me staring back at her.

As I recovered from the shock of this event, I realized there is a lesson to be learned in all of this. A mother’s influence lasts a lifetime. If we will one day become our mother’s then one day our daughters will become us! What will our daughter’s see in that mirror looking back at them? I find myself constantly thinking, “Mom was right all along.” I even have out of body experiences when I realize I am saying exactly the same words to my daughter that my mother spoke to me. What words will our daughters say to their daughters?

A day should never pass where we forget that we are not only influencing our daughters but our granddaughters and great granddaughters. We are forming a legacy of the women in our family through our words and actions. What is the legacy of the women in your family? We need to be careful to speak God’s words, show God’s love, mercy and forgiveness. The most precious gift we have (our daughters) should not be carelessly torn open or thrown away by our inability to worship the Lord through raising our daughters.

Copyright © Richele McFarlin, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

               

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OK, on to this week’s Mommy tip…

Mommy Needs to Spend Time with God

Every Mom knows that being a Mom means life is busy and hectic. It does not matter if you are a corporate Mom or a homeschooling Mom. If you are a Mother, you are a busy woman. No matter how busy our lives get, we cannot forget the most important thing in life…Daddy God. NOTHING else matter in the big scheme of things. If you find that at the end of the day, you have “missed” God, then this tip is for you!

Spending time with God does not need to be this super spiritual micro managed batch of time that is so over scheduled we get no relationship out of it. Allow God to be a part of every little moment of your day and you will be closer to Him than a rushed 15 minutes of “scheduled” time. God wants friendship and relationship…not to be fitted into a busy day when possible!

Making God Time All Day Every Day

• Talk to Him. Be in constant communication with Him throughout your day. Talk to Him at the stop light, while showering or blow drying your hair. Include Him in your decisions. Ask Him to help you. Thank Him for that great parking space. Remember: every good things comes from above. Take the time to notice and express thankfulness!
• Read His Word. This does not have to be hard. Include the kids. While sitting at breakfast, have one of them read a psalm or proverbs, then discuss it as  you are getting ready for your day. If they cannot read, you can take a minute to read on or two verses. If you can’t maybe you need to sacrifice and get up 10 minutes earlier.
• Memorize His Word. Make this a family affair. Memorize one verse a week as a family. Knowing the Word is vital to a victorious walk. You can make it fun too. Be creative.
• Do a Bible study. This is important. If your church has a woman’s Bible study, do your best to participate. Otherwise do your own. Even if you can only actually do the study 2 times per week, at least you are committing something to God and making your spiritual life a priority!

We need to realize that spiritual growth is extremely important. We must be growing. Look at it this way, would you go weeks without eating or drinking? No. In this society we have a hard time missing ONE meal. Why then, do we starve our spirits??

Moms, you need to live the walk out loud before your children. In these last days we need to be raising up a generation that will burn brightly for Jesus…if we do not show them, who will??

Copyright © Lara Velez, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

               

When I was a senior in college, I had to complete a thesis as a requirement to graduate with my Bachelor’s degree in psychology. I decided to write my thesis on the correlation between body image and self esteem in women. I surveyed one hundred women ages 18-60 and needless to say there was a high correlation between those who had a poor self image and a low self esteem. It was an eye opener to read the results of the survey, which were quite disturbing. I was amazed at the large number of women who loathed their bodies and who didn’t think they had much self worth. Now that I have my own daughter and have gone through my own issues with weight, I am reminded of how important it is to teach our children to love, honor, and respect their bodies.

In today’s culture girls, especially are bombarded with images of how they should look. The images that the media have portrayed have given our children a very distorted idea of what is beautiful and what is not. From the clothes, the toys, and the television shows, parents are hard pressed to find wholesome healthy images. Last Halloween I was amazed and outraged at the provocative costumes that were available to young girls. I simply did not buy them, but it was disturbing how inappropriate they were. I am one of those parents who believe that you can’t put all the blame on the media and the fashion industry. I believe that you are responsible for what you allow in your home. If you feel that a tween television show such as Hannah Montana has adult themes that are inappropriate for your child, then do not allow them to watch it. If a skirt from the mall is too mini, don’t buy it. As parents we have to take responsibility for what we allow to filter into our homes.

Girls need to have role models that are admirable not because of their ability to wear a size 0, they should look up to a role model because of their values, morals, and character. It is important that we teach our daughters that what is on the inside is what counts. We need to remind them that they are created in the image of our father and therefore, they are beautiful not because of their clothing size or their appearance but because they are god’s creation. Their self esteem and self worth should be rooted in their relationship with the Lord. It is important that they treat their body as a temple, and that means nourishing it with healthy foods, exercise, cleanliness, and most importantly self respect.

I have said this before, and I will say it again, our children will replicate our actions. If they see us living a healthy physical, spiritual, and emotional lifestyle they are more likely to do the same. If they hear us constantly complaining about our weight, and saying, “I’m so fat, look at me, I look awful.” You better believe that they will start scrutinizing themselves. It is important that we are careful with our words. Telling your daughter, she can stand to loose a few pounds can lead to a lifetime of her constantly analyzing her weight. I am by no means saying to let your child become obese, however if you see your child gaining an unhealthy amount of weight, incorporate more physical activity together, for example, take tennis or dance lessons together, or just take more evening walks. Let your kids see you active, self confident, and caring about your body, be their role model and remove the responsibility from the media.

Self image and self esteem are vital to the well being of our girls and our boys. At a very young age children are aware of their bodies. They are a blank slate until all the outside influences come in and begin to cloud their vision. Bad self esteem can lead to all sorts of problems as well as a poor body image. Instill in your children that their bodies are a sacred gift from God and it is up to them to care for it and appreciate it. Compliment your daughter, and encourage her to live by her own set of rules, not the rules that her peers set. Give her the courage to be different and not follow the leader of the pack. Tell her she is beautiful not only for her face or body, but for all of her Christ like characteristics. Let them know that their worth is not linked to their appearances. Lastly, filter what enters your home, don’t feel pressured to be a cool parent, instead be a parent that has healthy boundaries for your children.

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

               

Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mother’s of Today is a wonderful book for Christian Moms, written by best selling author, Kathi Macias. Kathi is a fabulous writer and has the ability to open the eyes of the reader to Truth.

In Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mother’s of Today, Kathi shows us how God used Biblical Mothers to fulfill His purpose. We also learn how He is still using Moms of today! Some of the Mothers she uses as examples are; Eve, Sarah, Rachel, Bathsheba, Elizabeth and Salome. As well as many more.

Each chapter includes inspiring quotes, prayers for Mothers, and a place to journal what the Lord speaks to you through the chapter. She even includes questions to help you get the most out of each chapter.

She really breaks down each Mother and shows powerful insights into their lives and purpose. One of my favorite chapters is, Bathsheba: Redemption and Restoration. I have always struggled with “unworthiness.” This was an awesome chapter…awesome book!

Every Mother should have this book. You will be blessed, encouraged and inspired. You will learn how much you are loved and that we ALL have a purpose no matter what our lives are or have been.

Kathi has generously given Moms of Faith a copy if this wonderful book to give a way to one lucky reader. If you would like a chance to win this great book for Christian Moms, please follow the rules below…

Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mother’s of Today Give a Way

Want a copy of this fabulous book?

Simply leave a comment to this post letting us know why you want this book.

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Please Note: You MUST leave a comment to even qualify to enter the contest. All other entry types are optional.

Official Rules: You must be at least 18 and put a VALID email in the email section of the comment box. This is so we can reach you if you win!

Contest Ends: July 3, 2009. Winner will be announced on July 7.

Good Luck!

               

History of Independence Day

Many people consider July 4th as the birth date of America, and rightfully so. It was on this date in 1776 that the Continental Congress approved and adopted the Declaration of Independence. It can actually be considered the country’s birth certificate. At this time the spirit of freedom, so much a part of this country’s history, was born.

Prior to the birth of our nation, the colonists led other uprisings against the British for one reason or another. Most often, however, the colonist’s complaints revolved around unfair taxes. In fact, as early as 1676, Nathaniel Bacon wrote a “Declaration of the People” to decry the taxes and failure of the British to protect farmers along the western edge of the colonies. Bacon also led rebellions against the British.

From the beginning of colonial times, the British required American colonists to pay taxes on items imported from Great Britain. These items included sugar, coffee, and wine. The colonists, however, were not given voting privileges in Parliament. After years of being taxed on all goods, the Americans began boycotting British goods. British troops were sent to enforce the Townshend Act.

Of course, the colonists rejected King George and Parliament’s right to enforce this Act saying that it was a violation of their constitutional rights as British subjects. Petitions were sent to King George asking him to repeal the Townshend Act. This was quickly denied.

Boston’s civilians clashed with British soldiers on a regular basis. Skirmishes began to draw larger crowds which finally led to the death of Crispus Attucks, and four others at the Boston Massacre in March 1770. This was the final straw and is thought to be the incident that cemented the resolve of the colonists to rid themselves from British tyranny during the American Revolution.

Colonists continued to rebel against the taxes, but the British continued to levy taxes. By 1773, the American colonists had had enough. They refused to pay tax any longer on tea. In the middle of the night on December 16, a group of men boarded three ships in the harbor and dumped the contents of the ships into the water.  This was the true beginning of the Revolutionary War. Before it was over, the population of the colonies – men and women, black and white – would join together to fight for freedom.

Suffice it to say, the colonists defeated the British and won their freedom. Now families all over the country celebrate this wonderful day. Depending upon which day of the week the fourth falls on, the celebrations may last longer than one day.

When Did 4th of July Start?

Our Founding Fathers, as they’ve come to be known, knew the importance of their actions in Philadelphia. They knew they were laying the foundation for a new country, a free country, a country different from all others in the world. They may not have known, however, that the date of July 4 would be so important to the citizens of this country.

Some researchers believe that the concept of celebrating the birth of the nation and marking the adoption of the Declaration of Independence was an afterthought. The original approval to separate from Britain occurred on July 2, 1776 and the Declaration of Independence was formally adopted by all but one colony two days later. John Hancock was the first to sign the Declaration, and did so in large letters, purportedly so King George could read it.

Upon agreeing to separate from Britain, John Adams, Founding Father, member of the Continental Congress, and future second President of the United States of America, wrote to his wife Abigail:

“The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

Reports claim that members of the Continental Congress did not discuss the idea of celebrating the anniversary of accepting the Declaration of Independence until July 3 which made it too late to celebrate on the actual date the approval was given. Instead, they celebrated on July 4, 1776 and that is the date that has been celebrated as the birth of America ever since.

In 1781, the Massachusetts legislature was the first to recognize the Fourth of July as an actual holiday.  Two years later, Johann Friedrich Peter performed his work “The Psalm of Joy” on July 4th in Salem, North Carolina as the first celebration of the holiday.

Ten years after the first July 4 celebration, cities commemorating the day would shoot canons or ring bells early in the morning. Parades were commonplace as those who had fought in the Militia would march. Citizens and other military volunteers would join the parade. Bonfires and fireworks were also a part of the early celebrations.

In 1791, the holiday was first called “Independence Day.” By 1870, the U.S. Congress named Independence Day an unpaid holiday for all federal employees. It wasn’t until 1941, however, that Congress finally declared July 4th as a federal holiday to be celebrated by those around the country. Of all the holidays celebrated in the United States, the Fourth of July, or Independence Day as it may be called, is undoubtedly one of the most important holidays we celebrate.

4th of July Recipes:

4th of July Turkey Chili

1 can (14.5oz) chopped tomatoes
1 can (6oz) tomato paste
1 carrot, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
¼ cup white wine
1.5 pounds ground turkey (you can also use ground beef if you prefer)
1 package (1.25oz) chili seasoning mix
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
¼ cup green bell pepper, chopped
¼ cup red bell pepper, chopped
1/3 cup bottled steak sauce
5 slices bacon
1 tsp ground cumin
1 can (15oz) kidney beans, drained
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Combine tomatoes, tomato paste, carrot, onion, celery, pepper flakes, peppers, steak sauce and wine in a large heavy pot and simmer over low heat.

In a separately large frying pan cook the bacon slices until crisp and put on paper towels to drain. Cook the ground turkey in the bacon drippings until browned. Then drain. Stir the chili seasoning into the ground turkey.

Add the turkey to the tomato mixture and add the cumin and bacon. Keep simmering until the vegetables are tender. Then stir in beans, cilantro and parsley. Heat through and season well.

Serve immediately with grated cheese and corn muffins below.

4th of July Corn Muffins

(makes 12 muffins)
1 can (14.5oz) creamed corn
2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
8 tbsp butter, melted
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tbsp white sugar
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 ½ tsp salt

Preheat oven to 450F and heat up a 12-cup muffin tin in the hot oven while making the muffin mix.

In a medium saucepan, heat the creamed corn and then stir in 1 cup of the cornmeal. The mixture should be very thick and stiff. Whisk in the buttermilk, then add the eggs. Again, whisk thoroughly, then add the melted butter.

In a medium bowl, mix the remaining cornmeal with the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and baking soda. Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir carefully until just combined.

Take the muffin tin out of the oven and either use muffin cases or lightly grease the tin. Fill the muffin mix evenly into the muffin cups and bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown.

Remove muffins and place on a wire rack to cool.

Serve with any soup or a the yummy 4th of July chili recipe we included.

Mommy and Me 4th of July Crafts

4th of July Fireworks Craft Option 1

What you need:

• Black or other dark construction paper
• Glitter
• A straw, toothpicks, or paintbrushes
• White glue
• Old newspapers

Spread out the newspaper to work on. Place a small amount of glue on the construction paper. Geometric shapes can be made on the paper by blowing gently through the straw on the glue. Your child can also use toothpicks or paintbrushes to create designs on the paper.

Once all of your glue has been blown into shapes, sprinkle some glitter over the top of the glue. Carefully pick up the piece of construction paper and gently slide the excess glitter back into the bottle.

If you want to, you can repeat the glue and glitter process with different colors. Let the glue dry between colors.

4th of July Fireworks Craft Option 2

What you need:

• Smocks to cover the kids’ clothes
• Aluminum foil
• Washable acrylic paint
• Black craft paper
• Sponge
• Flowers (dandelions or mums work best)

Start by getting all your materials together. Put a smock on each child making this craft with you.

Let the kids choose the colors of paint they want to use for their project. Using a folded piece of the aluminum foil, create a color palette for each child with the colors they chose. The best colors to show up on dark paper are gold, silver, red, blue or green. If possible, try to get the metallic paints.

Give each child a piece of sponge or a flower for each color of paint, showing them how to ‘load’ it with the paint. Dandelions and mums work best because of the many crevices they have.

Show the children how to gently dab their dark paper with their sponge to make imitation fireworks. By dabbing the paper gently and quickly, your children will be able to achieve fantastic looking fireworks to fill the “night sky” without having to leave the house.

These two fireworks art projects are sure to please your children. Make sure to share your children’s masterpieces with everyone after the paint dries. Let them sign their artwork before giving it away, including the date. Take any 4th of July fireworks pictures that remain and use them to celebrate the holiday at any time of the year.

Have a wonderful 4th of July!

HAPPY INDEPENCE DAY to the UNITED STATES of AMERICA!!!!!!!!

               

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