Inspire yourself!

[Darla Shine]

Do you ever just wander around your kitchen looking out the windows feeling lucky and inspired? This morning as I was washing my coffee pot looking into my back yard, the trees were red and orange, the wind was blowing, my chimes were making the sweetest sounds, and I just felt lucky to be here in my home. It is such a blessing to not have to rush out the door, drop the kids at day care, and be at some office all day. I think the opportunity to be an at home mom is a great gig. I think often we get caught up and fed up with the day to day monotony and aggrevation. The kids can drive us crazy, and the house can be a mess. But as I sit here in my fluffly slippers wearing my comfy pajamas and drinking my coffee, I feel grateful. I also feel deep gratitude to all of the men and women who have made this possible for me. Every day I think about the military and their families. How their sacrifice since the beginning of this country has allowed me this gift of freedom. And I love my husband for working hard and believing in the same old fashioned morals and values that I do. Am I a lucky gal. I think so. I know you all are too.

And as we get closer to Thanksgiving, lets kick off our reason for gratitude. This Christmas season full of shopping and glitz, will not go without our humble belief in all that is good and GOD.

Join with me to bring back the old fashioned Christmas. Spread good cheer. Give your time and your attention. And lets show corporate and political America that it isn't the sale, the store, or the policy that moves us. It's traditional family values, home grown goodness, and faith in GOD, that moves us.

So what can we do to inspire others in our family, community and our country this holiday season?

[ruthieshome]

I think I will focus harder this year by being more outspoken about be so very thankful.

Take the time to make homemade gifts for family and friends.

I would like to offer to have kids over a few evenings this month so 10 couples can have a date night without worrying about a sitter... ... :)

[Miriam Dawn]

I've taken the time to write some thank you cards to people who have been influential in my life but did not know it or realize the extent that they have been an influence. I thought that this year it was really important to let certain people know - just in case I keep putting it off and one day it becomes too late.

[Ann77]

I need to set aside more time to just pray.

[Norah]

Well said, Darla. So true. I really believe we have the best job available! How awesome that we get to raise our own children, turn our home into our family's safe haven, nourish our family, and even teach our children. We have it so good! Yes, there are times when life can seem monotonous, but think of the lives that we directly affect each and every day, just by being home and available! What an awesome responsibility and opportunity!

I need to pray more too. I need to get back into the habit of just praying as I go about my day and not waiting for 10 spare minutes to myself.

Around this time of year I just focus in on how thankful I am. I'm so thankful to the men and women who serve our country. I'm thankful for my dh who works SO hard for us and who fully supports me being at home with our kids. I thank God for the family He's blessed me with, the home He's put over our heads, and the grace He shows me every single day.

And you know what else I'm thankful for? Women like you Darla. Women who lift up the Stay-at-Home mom and find value in what they do. Who encourage them and give them a place to come to where they can get advice, share their lives, and feel connected in a world which oftentimes makes it hard to connect with others. Thank you.