Use Your LIFELINE: “I’d Like to Call a Friend”

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I felt that little niggling feeling. “You’d better call her.” I knew exactly who He was talking about, and she had been on my mind all day. Brand new baby, restless toddler, and a husband away on a business trip. I promised that I’d look out for her, so I knew I should check in.

I’d like to say that I obeyed immediately, but I didn’t. I got distracted with a busy household and lunch preparations. Before I knew it, two hours had passed. No excuses.

The amazing thing about Holy Spirit is that He OFTEN whispers to us about people, exactly when THEY need it, not necessarily when it’s convenient for us. Read more

My Manifesto of Motherhood

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manifesto-1As yet another dear friend waits with bated breath for the arrival of her precious little girl, I lay here reminded. Oh, am I reminded. In fact, I should be sleeping peacefully for two hours already, but the memories keep rolling over me. I have had such a wealth of love and experience in my journey as “Mom.”

  • Was I the perfect mom? Not a chance.
  • Do I deserve a trophy for “MomAwesomeness”? (Ooooh, wouldn’t that be nice?! Is there even such a thing?)  No, I’m afraid there will always be someone more awesome.
  • Was I real? Definitely.
  • Did I do my best with what I knew at the time? Absolutely!

If only I could relive those early years with the wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and the healthy dose of ‘perspective’ that I now possess. I’m not ready for teenagers to leave home and head to college! I’ve finally mastered the art of raising toddlers, managing homework, and wading through the hormonal years.

So, my dear friends, before the passion lifts and I fall into a dreamless sleep, here’s what I’m brewing about. If I were to turn back the clock and start the MOM-journey again, this is what I would say. This is what I would promise. This is what I believe about parenting… Read more

Words of Life to a Pregnant Woman (part 1)

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This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending a friend’s wedding, a delightful collection of amazing people from nations all around the globe. It was a beautiful, international celebration!

While there, I sat for a while and chatted with my friend, Puleng, who is currently 38 weeks pregnant. She’s gorgeous! This lovely, ebony beauty from the Dominion of Lesotho. She affectionately calls herself a Lesotho princess, and I wholeheartedly agree with her.

She started to tell me how difficult it’s been to prepare for this new baby. The waves of fear rolling over both her and husband have been suffocating. And they’re getting it from all sides―not only from doctors who are obliged to tell them what could go wrong but also from well-meaning acquaintances who share their personal horror stories.

Please, people, don’t do this! It is not ok to scare the life out of a new mommy until she’s paralyzed at the thought of the impending birth. Seriously?! How is that even helpful?

So, before I hear this from yet ONE MORE woman, here are my thoughts on “WHAT NOT TO SAY TO A PREGNANT WOMAN.” Read more