Tuesday morning! Well, it’s actually afternoon here. It’s been a nice morning.

I’m happy to say that we have a registered domain so it should be a little easier to find us on the web now.

I’m thankful today that my Mom’s Dr. appointment went well. She has another today…please pray health for her.

I’m also thankful for all that Paul and I have been learning about budgeting for our family. We’ve really taken the time to examine every purchase we make and are excited to be saving a little extra money these days.

I’m thankful for Larry, a man that my dear hubby works with. Paul did some computer work for him and now he’s teaching Paul some car repair tips. This is something that Paul has had to learn on his own and I know from experience, it’s always easier to have a teacher than to have to make your own mistakes. Especially when it pertains to something as necessary or expensive as a car!

Today’s prayer requests are for:

The Berry family will have a child placed in their home for a short time. Please pray for them as their family ministers to this little guy.

The Greenlaw family. Kim’s Dad continues to struggle with some on going health issues. I know that they are very concerned for him.

My son, Matthew. He seems to have a blocked tear duct today. We’re going to watch it over the next few days and see if we need to have it seen by his pediatrician.

What I’m learning today:

That too many late nights up on the computer makes Tracy a tired girl!! Up until 1 o’clock in the morning again, this website is almost totally complete. I know, I know, I’ve said it before but then I go and make some changes and Paul has to start over. I’m tired and very glad for a husband that doesn’t complain….too much….:)!

That little boys grow up too quickly. I’m so amazed when I see my sons all lined up. From the smallest to the tallest, I feel like I blink my eyes good and they’ve grown another foot! Yesterday, this thought brought to mind one of my favorite songs many years ago. Of course, not having any children at that point, I had no idea how applicable this song would eventually be to me but I loved it and listened to it again and again. Here it is….

Water Colored Ponies
by Wayne Watson

There are watercolor ponies
On my refrigerator door
And the shape of something
I don’t really recognize
Drawn by careful little fingers
And put proudly on display
A reminder to us all
Of how time flies

Seems an endless mound of laundry
And a stairway laced with toys
Gives a blow by blow
Reminder of the war
That we fight for their well-being
For their greater understanding
To impart a holy reverence
For the Lord

But, baby, what will we do
When it comes back to me an you?
They look a little less
Like little boys every day
Oh, the pleasure of watching
The children growing
Is mixed with a bitter cup
Of knowing the watercolor ponies
Will one day ride away

And the vision can get so narrow
As you view through your tiny world
And little victories can go by
With no applause
But in the greater evaluation
As they fly from your nest of love
May they mount up with wings
As eagles for His cause

This brings us back to our scripture meditation:

Titus 2:4-5

“Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God. NIV

We’ve been discussing learning to really love our children. Yesterday, we touched on discipline. Today, let’s examine our hearts. How do we feel about these children God has given us.

It seems that society has so devalued the contributions that women make to in general, especially in the role of wife and mother, sometimes it’s hard to feel good about that in which you are investing so much time and energy. Especially on days when they aren’t overly polite or respectful!

My words to you are “Stand Firm!”. These days pass very quickly. If you are raising your children properly you will see the fruits of your labor. Until then…..

We need to learn to view our children for what they are: a gift from God Himself. The Bible tells us:

Proverbs 127:3

Behold, children are a gift of the LORD,
The fruit of the womb is a reward. (NAS)

Each day when we wake up, we need to view the day for what it is: an opportunity enjoy and love each of the gifts He has given us. He has entrusted us with those whom are precious to Him. We must not waste a day.

It isn’t enough to wake up and make it through each day. We must purpose and plan to plant within them the Word of God. We have to lay the foundation for them on which they will stand throughout their lives. This means that each day, take each and every opportunity to teach your children and tell them you love them. Take time out from the normal course of the day to play and just enjoy being with them. Learn to really like your children.

It may seem like the days are long and difficult but in reality they pass very quickly and we must learn to make the most of this little time that we have.