Encouragement For Mothers: Little Helpers

As my husband and I are raising our two (soon to be three) children, there are a few character traits we have made a priority to instill in them: self control, patience, cheerfulness and being helpful. We've found that we have had the greatest success in training them up to have these traits in their hearts by teaching with example and keeping them close to us as we go about our daily lives--which means we have had to teach ourselves how to keep these traits front and center in our hearts and countenance (not always easy, but the more we work and learn in our own spirits, it continues to grow in our family).

There have been times, particularly early on in my mothering that I wanted to shoo a little one off. "Go play with your toys, mommy's busy. I really need to get this done." Now while I'm sure that still pops out of my mouth here and there (particularily when trying to meet a writing deadline!) I have tried to give my attitude a mega adjustment and see those little hands as being helpful while recognizing an opportunity to have my children work alongside me, whether it be in the kitchen, garden, etc. A valuable chance to not only teach them what I am doing, but to listen and talk with them. To spend time with them. And busy little hands helping mommy have a lot harder time getting into trouble, then little hands left on their own somewhere else in the house!

My daughter recently turned two and I cannot be in the kitchen, whether its making a PB&J or a batch of cookies without her scooting a chair over, nabbing her little apron from the drawer, climbing up and seeing how she can watch and help. This brings her joy. Her favorite tasks are dumping ingredients that I've measured into the bowl and stirring. She's also my champion tortilla roller outer. Give that girl a rolling pin and she's one hot senorita in the kitchen.

Recently, after about an hour of working in the garden with my four-year-old son, I turned to him and asked, "What would you rather do? Play with toys or help mommy do a project." Now this wasn't a trick question and I was certain of his answer--toys. But he surprised me. After a moments thought, he turned to me and said, "helping mommy with projects."

I couldn't believe it. So much of our culture today instills into our minds that our children need every toy on the market and millions of DVD's to keep content and be entertained. When in reality, they just want to be loved. They want to be noticed, appreciated and helpful. They want to look up into an adult face and hear the words, "You did an awesome job. I couldn't have done it without your help." And to parents with younger children, take advantage of that window while its still wide open.

There were a few life choices that helped. My husband and I have always talked about having very few battery-operated toys. We didnt want our children always seeking entertainment. Plastic tools, little shovels and rakes, balls, trucks, tractors, puzzles, books, and cooking utensils for mud pies and leaf soup are what our children have had since they were tiny tots. People sometime comment on my son who is always eager to jump out and dig in the snow or the dirt or to help an adult fix something. And I always say "Tools are his toys. This is his favorite thing to do."

While my children get plenty of time for free play everyday, hours in fact now that its beautiful and sunny out, we always manage to come together here and then to work side-by-side which is where so much of their schooling and learning takes place. And the results are a parent's greatest reward. Just the other day, while the kids were in the back yard having fun all on their own, I looked out to see that my son had hopped off his swing and was standing their giving his sister a few minutes of good-pushing time on her own swing. I saw then and there, that to be helpful is now a part of his heart. He's learning to value the time he spends with his sister and to think of how he can serve others, not grudgingly, but with a laughing, four-year-old heart.

Winning Him Without Words: Book Review & Giveaway!

A mismatch Blessed by heaven.
If your husband does not share your faith, you may feel like you are walking a tightrope of spiritual survival--guarding the flame of your belief in Christ, yet unable to share it with the person you love the most in the world. But your spiritually mismatched marriage can be a vibrant, blessed relationship where you're free to grow in love with God and your man!



Co Authors Lynn Donovan and Dineen Miller open up their hearts and past experiences to share with the reader mistakes they have made in the past and triumphs they've experienced by turning the possibility of their husband's salvation over to Christ and simply loving their hubby and being the wife he needs by believing their marriage is blessed, staying connected to their man and allowing God to do His work in their husband's lives. Written in a girlfriend to girlfriend style, Winning Him Without Words is the perfect book for any woman in an unequally yoked marriage who is looking for hope that she can have a happy, blessed and thriving marriage with her unbelieving husband without needing to compromise on her relationship with Christ.

Lynn Donovan and I attend the same critique group and she has such a heart for women and a desire to share her story. When the book first came out, we asked her what her husband thought of it all. She surprised us by saying that he completely supports the book and her ministry. Now that is a spiritually mismatched marriage that is strong and thriving! To Learn more about their story, check out the video above.

Also, I have a copy of this book to give away! And I am so excited to share about the awesome book. Just leave a comment below and you will be entered into the drawing. The winner will be chosen on May 12, so please check back! Also, you can find more information about Winning Him Without Words and Lynn and Dineen's ministry at their website:
http://www.winninghimwithoutwords.com/

Home From Mount Hermon 2011

Well I'm home. After spending a day cuddling and hanging out with my kids, attempting (and failing) to unpack, I decided to sit down and write about my week at Mount Hermon. I've heard from so many writers who have been there what a great conference it is and now I see why people go back year after year. The grounds are absolutely gorgeous and this year's conference just happened to land in a sunny patch of the weather forecast so we had warm, blue skies every day. Last night over Mexican food, I told my husband about the conference and he was very attentive. Finally, he said "So it's kind of like band camp but for writers." Haha, pretty much. Who else but a group of writers would think a late-night panel discussion on e-books between Steve Laube, Randy Ingermanson, James Scott Bell and several others is as fun as an episode of Saturday Night Live?

I decided to take Steve Laube's morning track which was an inside look at the publishing process from idea to print. Our class was small, just six people, but he was a great sport about it. Steve Laube answered our questions and personalized his examples around our own books and places in the publishing process. The folks in my morning track were so friendly and it was a great time of sharing our writing projects and goals and getting to know one another. I wish them all the best! And I was really glad for such a small group when it came time to stand in front of the class and test our elevator pitches. Everyone gave feedback and we all walked away with the perfect pitch. Although when Steve reminded us that the class was being recorded for all to hear who chose to buy the conference cd's...gulp. I think he thought he was funny :)

And really, I have no idea why I was so nervous. It's not like any conference I've ever been to. I even wore my purple converse most days and fit in perfectly with the jeans and tennis shoes theme. Mount Hermon is so welcoming and makes it easy for first-timers to get into the groove of things. Meal times were an opportunity to meet writers from every genre and walk of life, while sitting down with faculty members who are more than willing to hear pitches, story ideas and schedule appointments. None of those dreadful 15 minute speed dating appointments at Mount Hermon. Thank God! I admire those who are seeking an agent and bravely set up appointments and pitch their projects. It really is quite a task, one that I spent a long time pursuing, making me all the more thankful for my wonderful agent.

The days were jam-packed with workshops from morning til night on every writing topic under the sun. My favorite was a night-owl workshop held by Sarah Sundin about researching for historical fiction. I almost didn't make it because my fabulous sense of direction had me wandering around in the dark forever until I finally found the room. Let me just tell you, the girl knows how to research and had some of us drooling over her massively thick binders chock full of perfectly documented notes, countless copies of magazines, newspapers, even food ads from 1940, complete with color coded tabs, a table of contents and detailed bibliography on every book she has used. She must have read a hundred books on WWII and her suggestions and tips for researching were INVALUABLE. I had to pick my jaw off the floor and make a mental note to whip my own resources into better shape. And congratulations to Sarah for her win at the awards ceremony Monday night!

When I found time to sneak away, sometimes skipping a workshop for a walk along the paths and a deep breath, I felt instantly energized. The redwood forests, lush with ferns and greenery, wildlife and streams, was the perfect place for reflection and spending some time alone with God. Every evening, a message of encouragement and a challenge to walk closer with God seemed to spill out of the keynote speaker, Bill Myers. It was a wonderful time of study and reflection on my own walk and a reminder that God is with us through all times. If you have considered purchasing any conference cd's, that is a session I highly recommend.

Being there with my critique pals made the trip so much fun. We supported, encouraged, and often times laughed with each other as we took it all in, making my first trip to Mount Hermon one I will never forget.

Mount Hermon, Here We Come!

I am so excited! In less than a week, some fellow writing pals and I are going to load up in the car, weighed down by a variety of road snacks, Starbucks gift cards waiting to be redeemed, a little help from the GPS, and we'll set out on the 7-ish hour drive to Mount Hermon. Can I get a "Roadtrip! Woohoo!" *composes self* Thank you.

Oh and by the way, I took this picture while writing this blog post. Yep, no kids and what is a writing mom to do but spoil herself? That box may or may not contain pastries from the tea shop in town. You would see the slippers on my feet but you know...the whole feet on the table thing...

So back to Mount Hermon. This is my first major writing conference. For several years, I attended the two-day conference put on by our local Christian writer's guild in San Diego...I know I'm not really local, but they let me hang anyway :) The guild hosted their annual Spring Event just this past weekend and it was so much fun getting to meet with my fellow writers, chit chat, nibble on yummy food, and listen to Leeana Tankersley, our fabulous speaker, author of Found Art. Also, Susan Meissner, author of The Shape of Mercy, always hosts one of the workshops. This year she showed us how to create a fabulous one-sheet. Invaluable tips and advice, thanks Susan! I've got mine all done and ready to print out to take to Mount Hermon.

But like I said, never been there, so I am a little (OK, really) nervous about the conference. This is very outside my element. I'm a mommy who stays home with little rug rats doing all those sticky, noisy, things that mommies with rug rats do all day. So rubbing elbows with people who actually have a wardrobe of business clothes, professional business cards, and eloquently delivered elevator pitches...well has me shakin' in my apron. Ya know?

But I think that's sometimes the point. Writer's conferences can be INCREDIBLY intimidating to those who are new or just plain inexperienced. Like me. And my guess is, for many others. The good news is that it always seems like once we step into the unknown, put on our Lucy Pevensie brave face, and dive into a new experience, we often (if not always) come out a little stronger, wiser and the better for it. So I am excited about the new experiences I will have, fabulous workshops and tracks awaiting, and the new friendships and contacts yet to be made. Not to mention...this mommy could use a vacation :D

And for more on Mount Hermon, check this post out.

Book Review: Lessons From The Mountain by Mary McDonough

"Mary is a whole lot more than
Erin on The Waltons.
This book shows how she's handled
all the highs and lows with grace."
George Clooney

 Lessons From the Mountain recounts the childhood of Mary McDonough and her experiences of growing up on the Mountain as one of the beloved children in The Waltons.

Her accounts stirred my heart, bringing to life the young acress' experiences, both delightful and heartbreaking. Through dispelling myths, sharing insecurities and recounting all the good times and gags (mostly by John Boy--my favorite was the foaming mouth scene in the middle of church) from the Walton's set, McDonough's memoirs are touching in true-to-life fashion. She offers the reader a real treat, an inside look into these fond memories, leaving us understanding a little more about the characters and crew that made up The Waltons. 

As her endearing innocence faded into insecurities and struggles with self-worth, Mary searched to find herself. Her days were filled with sets and wardrobes, stylists and media scrutiny, bullies and blunders. Lost in an imaginary world where time stood still, she was always seen as the cute kid with freckles through the world's television screen and though the show must always go on, she secretly struggled behind her character's persona. This book shines a bright light on the realities that Mary faced as a child actor and surprisingly, her experiences were often times heartbreaking.

As those around her helped her carve out a new and victorious path, she began to find herself among the not-so glitz and glam of the Hollywood she knew. Yet even as an adult, Mary's struggle with fitting in haunted her and a decision to improve her appearance nearly cost the actress her life. Lessons From The Mountain shares her intense climb out of her sorrows and fears and into a world where she realized her voice was powerful--not just as an actress--but as a women's rights advocate, mother and friend. What's so special about this book is the way Mary recounts all her memories and experiences, whether good or bad, with the utmost class--a true testament to her character, making Lessons From The Mountain an excellent read.


Lessons From the Mountain on Amazon

Spring Fancies

It's spring. Crocus are beginning to bloom with daffodils close behind. The birds are chirping outside and my wind chime is carolling a happy song. I actually have my front door open--its such a delight to invite the yumminess in. I've tucked away my snow boots (though, granted, I might have to pull them back out again.) And I've replaced my winter wreath with a brightly painted sign: Spring.

In honor of this lovely time of year, I thought I would share some of my favorite spots for celebrating the growing season. Every June for the last three years, my family and I have gone down to the Lavender Festival at 123 Farm. Imagine this: sitting in a grassy area, surrounded by massive trees while classical music is performed on a grand piano mere feet away, sipping on ice-cold lavender lemonade, and inhaling the sun-warmed fields of lavender wafting by on the breeze. I know, doesn't sound relaxing, right? Lavender is supposed to have calming effects, so just imagine being surrounded by an entire farm of the fragrant herb. It's like walking around in a happy daze all day :D

We love the horse-pulled wagon tour and petting zoo. My children enjoy the sprawling lawns set up with games of cricket and Frisbee while I find myself a toasty lawn chair to enjoy the cool breeze. What's that? My glass is empty? Time for another round of lavender lemonade. The festival has become known for their use of lavender in everything from soaps to sachets to baked goods and beverages. My all time favorite is the lavender shortbread cookies and the fragrant vanilla ice cream laced with the subtle flavor of...yep, you guessed it. Oh. So. Good. Don't worry, I'll place the link below. But before you run off, check out my other favorite destination for spring.

Summer's Past Farms is a cozy and inviting family-run establishment tucked away on Olde Highway 80. Filled with quaint gardens and nooks for the child at heart, Summers Past Farm is the perfect place to spend a peaceful afternoon with the family or a couple of girlfriends. Because of it's size, strollers aren't even necessary (this mom's dream!) After setting up our picnic blankets in the grassy area where the kids will spend hours running around in the sunshine, we usually secure our glasses of homemade Black Mango iced tea from the coffee bar, and set to exploring the farm.

There are gardens of every shape and size, an occasional cat stretched out in the sun, picket fences covered in flowers and arbors heavy with the fragrant smells of spring. My children love the playhouse with the pint-sized garden where they can explore. Our favorite time is to go in May when the Sweet Pea Maze is open to visitors. Imagine exploring a maze made entirely out of sweet pea vines. Heavenly.

The cottage-style shops will pull you into a world of seeds, teacups and all those things that have me pulling out my wallet. Don't forget to buy a package ( in my case several) of the Black Mango tea, its delicious hot or cold. Oh, and the soap shop? Divine. Before leaving, we scour the nursery and take home new varieties of our favorite flowers and herbs. A box filled with fresh parsley, colorful nemesias and lanky foxglove inevitably gets tucked into the back of the car.

So if you're in the southern California area, I hope you will get the chance to visit these beautiful farms!
The only down side is having to leave.

Lavender Festival @ 123 Farm
Summers Past Farms

Book Review: "Katia" by Bruce Judisch

A spirited American exchange student. A sixty-year-old invalid. An enigmatic Berlin gentleman. A riveting Cold War secret. "Seek the truth, embrace the pain, cherish the freedom." Peek over the Berlin Wall as Katia's story comes to life through the scribbled notes of a girl struggling to grasp the significance of what she has written for her own life as well as for future generations.

As I read through Katia, I kept thinking to myself, "There is no way my review will do this book justice." And it's true. So I begin with an apology and a plea to just go out and buy the book, regardless of my ramblings.

This book is pure class. I loved every minute of it. Based upon the life of Katia Mahler, a sixty-year old German invalid and her memories and experiences living in Berlin during the Cold War, Bruce Judisch weaves a remarkable tale--heart wrenching in it's history and revelations, yet simple in its execution. Never did I expect this type of story to be such a light read, so finessed. Katia is arranged in such a way that it never felt weighty. Many threads woven together to read with such simplicity is a quality only a true craftsman can pull off.

I can't recall another book that made me chuckle on one page, cry on the next, and burst out laughing moments later. Mr. Judisch has a rare gift for tugging at the heartstrings and smile muscles simultaneously (often to my own annoyance--I rather resent someone who dares take advantage of my irrational feminine emotions. :D) That said, Katia is remarkably romantic. The story felt so real, I often reminded myself that it was a piece of fiction, though I must admit, the romantic in me refuses to listen.

Above all else, Katia left me feeling humbled (in the best sense). The lessons of faith woven through this story are carried out with grace as both the writer and his characters know just how to pull the reader along with the utmost sensibility and care to kindly pull back the cobwebs of the heart in thought provoking and, I suspect, life changing ways. This book has touched my heart and I hope it will touch yours.

For more on Katia and Bruce Judisch, including photographs of his time spent in Berlin during the wall's fall, check out his website!

Katia on amazon.com
Bruce's Website