Royally Waiting Link-up #1

I am super excited about this new link-up. It's always fun to see what other bloggers are up to and this one is hosted by some of the best.

Waiting on...

Our new house. It has been such an emotional ride and it is far from over. We ran into some unfortunate circumstances and have to start with a blank slate. It's overwhelming but I know it will be worth it.

Planning...

My baby girl's 4th birthday. Come April my beautiful ginger nugget will be 4. I don't know how she went from a baby to near kindergarten student (gasp) so quickly. I'm not handling it well. 

Celebrating...

My sweet hubby is celebrating his 30th birthday this Friday. I have a few surprises up my sleeve this weekend and I can't wait. If anyone deserves to be celebrated, it's him.

Eating...

Cinnabon Popcorn. While it's not low carb, it's not terrible if I want a small, delicious sweet and salt snack. The challenge is to not eat half the bag!

Loving...

I'm loving my quiet moments. Life has been really difficult for a while and I've recognized a need to just step back and sit quietly. I'm relearning to wait on the Lord. Those quiet moments are essential to my overall well being. They are a part of my self-care. It's so important to unwind.

Until next week!

The Truth Hurts

We've all heard that the truth hurts. It simply means that we do not like what we are being forced to hear, face or endure. I find myself in a season that is overwhelmingly full of hard truths. Sometimes I am the one dealing with the difficulty and sometimes I am the person that must share the hard news. I am honestly not sure which end I'd rather be on.

About two years ago I felt especially convicted to share some words and ask some difficult questions of someone I love dearly. I knew there would most likely be repercussions but this person and I had been in a similar situation before, so I was hopeful that I would see positive fruits as a result of my willingness to move forward once again. However, I battled with this. I did not want to risk the relationship. I did not want to cry. I did not want this person to feel attacked. As we all know, we don't always get what we want.

The words I spoke were taken out of context. The questions I asked were deemed imposing and disapproving. Everything I had not wanted to happen, despite earnestly praying for a better outcome, happened. I was devastated. One of my closest and dearest friends was no longer speaking to me...and basically has not since. Today is an especially hard day as I see the direction of the life that this person has chosen. It is painful. It feels almost as if a death has taken place. That is the near level of grief I have encountered as this day has approached. It is a day I should be present for, but am not wanted. It is a day that should be taking place under different circumstances. Alas, here I am, sitting with the truth.

I struggle...although the word struggle hardly feels adequate. I have to sit with the truth that these are the choices of this person. These are the walls that this person has put up. Only continued prayer and time may bring them down.

I've wrestled with this whole "speak truth" concept for a while now. It seems when I do, someone is offended, hurt, or needs to take a step back from me. I always come at it with love, but the truth hurts.

  Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.

Eph. 4:15

It can be painful to share the truth. It can be frightening, but it should always be done in and out of love. I am known for not sugar coating things and it's true that I often say things that people simply do not want to hear...but I cannot help it. I cannot help how I feel the Spirit move. I have come to terms with the fact that there will be unpleasant repercussions. I am also reminded that there can be severe consequences. In fact, Christ was battered, scorned, humiliated and hung a cross for speaking truth. While my current circumstances cause anguish, they have yet to cause me death. However, the principal is the same.

We must put off the need to sugar coat and versions of half truths. We need to speak in love. We need to speak the Truth in love as God leads. God holds us to that expectation and I for one would rather lay my head on my pillow and sleep soundly with the knowledge that I have honored my God then to lose sleep over not following His leading.

Scripture promises difficult times, but it also promises great reward for pursuing Christ. Each encounter we have with someone is an opportunity for God to use us. Do not shy away. While in the moment, and in this case, years, the pain may cause heartache, I can rest assured that His Word will not return void. His purpose will prevail. He remains good. He remains faithful.

Truth remains.

The Kids Behind the Blog: February 2017

February, the month of love.

There is no one I love more than my kids...

I absolutely adore the little people they are becoming and they become more entertaining with each passing month. I'm linking up with The Kids Behind the Blog for this month's love themed questions.

1) What does the word love mean to you?

-"You pray for peoples' hearts. You say kind things."
Be still my heart. Even at nearly 4 she gets it better than a lot of adults.

2) Kids choice! How do you want to spend Valentine's Day?

-"I want to go dancing."
I guess we'll be doing some dancing on Valentine's Day.

3) Do you have a Valentine? If so, who?

-"Yes. My friend Tessa at school 'cause she's my friend."

4) How many days are in the month of February?

-"4"
She will be 4 in April...so everything is currently revolving around the number 4.

5) How do you show someone you love them?

-"I love my teachers. I be kind."
She truly is such a kind and helpful little girl. She makes me feel like we're doing something right as parents.

I hope you'll join us for the link-up. I love reading what your kids come up with.

5 Things You Might Not Know About Me

I loved Lisa's 10 Things You Might Not Know About Me post so much that I was inspired to create my own. Like Lisa, I feel a lot of my posts lately have been more on the serious side. That is just the season of life I am in right now. It's good to walk the waters of light heartedness more often then not, especially during difficult seasons. Thanks again Lisa for reminder.

The following are 5 things you may or may not know about me...

1. Iced Coffee

I treat myself once a week to a wonderfully flavored ice coffee from one of my favorite coffee spots. If you are ever coming through Madison Heights, VA, you should definitely stop in at The Bean Barn. Their Iced Salted Caramel Mochas are delish!

2. Libraries

I love the smell of libraries...or rather the books that are in the libraries. There is something so comforting and nostalgic about the smell of well worn pages. I love the weight of the books in my hands. This year I've been determined to spend a little me time, most of which has centered around reading. I've posted my list of reads from January and I'd love to hear any title or author suggestions you have.

3. Sunglasses

I LOVE sunglasses. I especially love ones with large lenses. Call me cheap, but the most I've ever spent on a pair is only like $12. I do not do name brands. In fact, most of them have come from a dollar store or Walmart. When you lose things like I do, it does not make sense to spend tons of money on a pair of sunglasses.

3. Green

My favorite color is green...almost every shade. I steer away from the puke-like or neon.

4. "Prayer Ordered" Children

The Bible tells us to come boldly to the throne with our requests. Before I knew I'd face matters of infertility, I had secretly hoped and prayed for a little girl. I did not stop there. I remember whispering a prayer that if He should so see fit to grant my wish list, I'd like the following: A little girl with red hair and blue eyes. I also really wanted her to have her father's dimples. I know it seems silly, but most of us have been guilty of wishing for certain traits and characteristics. After a lengthy struggle, I decided I would take whatever the Lord would grant. I just hoped for a whole and healthy baby. When we conceived, I just knew I was having a girl. I cannot explain it. However, when she was born with platinum blonde hair, I believed it would eventually turn brown, just as her father's had. At about 5 months however, it became evident that her hair was turning red. I now have a beautiful, red haired, blue eyed daughter that has her daddy's dimples. How cool is that?! God does not mind if we get specific.

5. Boats

I do not like boats. Big or small, I fear them all. I don't know why but I vaguely remember a very frightening ride with my cousins as a young child. Maybe this was the cause. I like the idea of a leisurely float down a river or a cruise to some far off place, but the thought of actually getting on one sends my blood pressure and anxiety levels soaring. I know this sounds crazy from a person who loves the outdoors so much, not to mention that I'm a pretty decent swimmer. Please know I have tried to overcome this fear...and yet, at 31 years old, I have yet to overcome it.

Do any of these surprise you?

Feel free to jump on board and share some of your "unknowns". It really is a lot fun!

Book Reviews: January 2017

I made a vow to myself that I would begin taking better care of myself this year. That not only includes my physical health, but my mental health as well. I have not been good about carving out “me time” and as I have reflected upon those things that I miss doing, reading for pleasure was near the top of the list. I have since made a point to have some reading time before going to bed almost every evening. It allows me to unwind and escape.

January Reads

I thought I’d share what I’ve been reading. These reviews are my personal opinions and I have not been compensated in any way for sharing my thoughts.

Taming the To-Do List by Glynnis Whitwer

It was an encouraging read about how to make the best of your choices. There was not anything particularly profound in my opinion, but I loved how she backed up a lot of what she said with science. It just proves that we try to do too much and that we were not meant to live that way.

 

Whistlin’ Dixie in a Nor-Easter by Lisa Patton

This read was a little slow for my taste. The story line was fine and the characters were likable. I have another one of her novels on my list for later reading. I’m hoping that I’ll like it better than this one.

 

The Magnolia Story by Chip and Joanna Gaines

I LOVED this book. I could not put it down. There was a lot of laundry that did not get done in the two days it took me to get through its pages. I am late to the Fixer-Upper stage, but I am hooked. I am so smitten with their story and their style. I cannot recommend this book enough!

 

One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus

This book toyed with every emotion. There were parts that were so startling that it was hard to read. His word imagery is amazing and I felt like I was witnessing the joys and devastations along with the characters. Fergus is a great writer. This book is not for the faint of heart. It is not one that I would read again, but it is also not one that I’ll soon forget.

 

Yes Please by Amy Poehler

I wanted to like this more than I did. I loved her style of writing and her path to stardom was interesting. While I did not expect a saintly worded narrative, I was not prepared for the amount of (what I consider vulgar) language that would be incorporated on the pages. While I know this is not a deal breaker for a lot of readers, I struggled to get through it. I still find her adorable and I will forever love her character on Parks and Rec. She is so talented, funny and her experience is valuable.

Linking up for WWRW

Currently: January 2017

I have not done a “currently” post in a while. It has been a challenging few months to say the least. My life has taken lots of altering turns since I last posted this type of piece in September 2016. Who knew that only a month later things would look so different.

Thinking About: I am thinking about all of the things I need to do in February. There is a lot to plan and look forward to. I’ve also been doing a lot of self-reflection, which has been both enlightening and difficult.

Working On: I am working on pulling ideas from my New House Pinterest boards. We sold our house at the beginning of January and in a couple of weeks we’ll meet with our builder to settle on final selections that will eventually bring the look of our new house together. The kitchen and living room have always been the heart of our home. I am so excited about finally having a streamline style throughout the house. Here are a few of the ideas inspiring the look of our new home.

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Learning: I am re-learning how to live happy. My joy cannot be taken. It comes from my love and relationship with Jesus. My happiness however, comes and goes. I have to choose my attitude. I used to be so “glass half full” but for a while now, I’ve felt that cup emptying. I am re-learning how to rejoice in ALL things. I am choosing to look on the bright side.

Watching: The only two shows I currently watch faithfully are Alone and Curse of Oak Island. I do not watch much television and we try to not let it necessarily be how we spend our family time so I am always behind on the latest TV drama. However, when these two shows are on (which are thankfully on after the kids go to bed) you can find me propped on the couch, eyes glued to the screen. These are shows that both my husband and I enjoy together.

Listening to: The radio. The CD player in my Jeep is malfunctioning and until my hubs can fix it, I find myself listening to our favorite radio station, 88.3 The Journey.

Reading: Wild by Cheryl Strayed. I’ve read several books this month. In fact, I’ve read more this past month than I have in the last few years. I hope to do a review post soon. I’ve been carving out reading time in the evenings as a way of working on self-care. Since meeting with my new counselor, I’ve become more motivated to take care of myself again.

Trying: I am trying to get back into my low carb way of eating. I did pretty well last week and lost almost 3lbs. I knew this would be a challenge and the last few days have been what I would consider flops. I just have to remind myself that every choice counts. My menu for February is looking good and I am becoming more determined daily. I have goals that I want to reach and I have things that I want to see happen. Some of these things are heavily influenced by my weight. I can do this!

Loving: I am loving my husband. The last few months have helped me see him with fresh eyes. He has changed in so many amazing ways and I am SO proud of the man he has become. God has been working in both of us and I find myself frequently falling in love with my sweet hubs over and over again. The pain and healing we have gone through since October has only strengthened our relationship together and as a couple with God. Life with him is not always beautiful, but it is our kind of perfect.

Low Carb Mini Sausage Biscuits

Low carb works for me and I have been trying to get it to work for my family as well. This can be challenging since my littles are not always on board. They will try everything I put before them, but they are quick to let me know which way their favor is going to go. I’ve also been learning how to work with almond flour. I definitely prefer it over coconut flour.

I find myself needing a lot more inspiration this time around. Prior to being off the low carb wagon for personal and medical reasons, I was doing great with making low carb meals. As I was making this month’s menu, I realized that I was a little burnt out on some of the dishes I was making and I knew if I was, my family certainly was.

This led me to making a purchase that I will hopefully review later. It has also led me to getting a little more creative in the kitchen. I used to think that a low carb way of life meant that you had to live without the food you love. Not so. Today’s recipe is living proof. I tried the original recipe by Peace Love and Low Carb and really liked it. I enjoyed them so much that I began trying different versions, adapting here and there and my sausage version has become a family favorite.

I love these little cheesy nuggets. Best yet, they are low carb, easy to make, freeze well and are toddler approved!

Ingredients*

4oz low fat cream cheese, softened

1 egg

1 ¼ c shredded, sharp cheddar cheese

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp Italian seasoning

1 ¼ c almond flour

¼ c heaving cream

¼ c water

4oz ground maple or breakfast sausage, browned and drained

 Directions

Preheat oven to 350.

In your mixer, cream the cream cheese until smooth and then add the egg. Blend well. Add the seasoning, spices and cheese. Mix on low or mix by hand with a spoon.

Combine the flour, cream and water with the cheese mixture until it is well incorporated. Gently mix in the sausage.

Scoop generous tablespoons of batter into a well-greased mini muffin tin. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes or until golden and no longer spongy to the touch.

Serve warm or cool and then freeze. If freezing, simply thaw and warm in the microwave until it reaches your desired temperature.

My kids are “dippers” and these pair well with ketchup or syrup.

Makes approximately 10 servings (3 muffins).

Nutrition (according to MyFitness Pal): Calories 339, Fat 28.8g, Sodium 475mg, Net Carbs 3.8g

* The fat content, as well as all other nutritional values will change depending upon the types of ingredients you choose to use. For example, full fat vs low fat cream cheese.

The add-ins are endless!