Future world traveler!?!

I picked up an old world atlas the other day at the thrift store and had it out today.  I had a few books on Australia out as well as this is Australia Day.  After an early bath, this is what I saw while I was preparing dinner:

Now I just need to study it to keep up with her geography skills.  I am looking forward to getting this book this summer or even starting it with both girls next fall. 

Love that my kid is interested in something as "boring" as geography.  What are your kids interested in that may be considered "boring"?

Words of encouragement

I have long thought that my oldest daughter is a quality time person like me (five love languages) but after a recent comment about when I was going to write another note to put in her mailbox I began to see just how much she loves words of encouragement. 

This last week of the gentleness challenge has been eye opening and great.  Each member of our family is totally on board.  Posting scriptures from Proverbs all around our house I recognize we are constantly reminded to make sure our words are wise and bring healing to one another.  I am encouraged by the girls ability to memorize and review scripture.  I even heard Lydia in her room one day singing a song with Proverbs 12:18.  It was sweet to hear her putting her own melody to the words that are life giving.

This week as we continue the gentleness challenge with Courtney from Women Living Well I am focusing on encouraging words and notes to my family members.  I started a Mama and Me journal book with Lydia and can't wait to see her reaction and her first entries into the world of journaling and letter writing.  I hope we can fill that book and many others with questions, hopes, dreams, encouragement and words that build up rather than tear down.

Blessings to you!

Words, words, words

My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life God desires. James 1:19-20

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and loving instruction is on her tongue. Proverbs 31:26

I have had these memory verses for a long time yet they are constantly being put to the test.  I want so much to open my mouth only in wisdom and allow loving instruction to be on my tongue as I spread the fragrance of God's love an grace throughout my home and my relationships.  This a constant struggle because my selfishness and my desires to please God are always at war with each other. 

I am joining this month with Courtney at Women Living Well to fight this battle with the Gentleness Challenge.  My first order of buisness is to post Proverbs all over our house.  Using my words wisely is not possible without the Word of God being firmly planted in my heart and to do that I am going to post it all over the walls of our house so there are constant reminders of His wisdom. 

Lord, You are the author and perfecter of my faith and I pray that You use this earthly challenge to produce Your lifelong eternal purposes.  You are the only one who can give me strength and I know You care deeply that I use my words wisely.  May I turn to You alone in the struggles that threaten to overwhelm my life.  You are the One that I want to lead my and guide me through this life.  Amen.