Above & Beyond — motherhood – life more than we imagined

She Who Refreshes …

by Debi on January 17, 2012

Today is Tuesday and I continue with my Taking Care Tuesday series.

Motherhood 101 - ‘If you save your life, you loose it – but if you loose your life, for My sake – you find it.’ The words of Christ. (Luke 17:33)

In short - ‘She who refreshes others – will herself be refreshed.’ (Proverbs 11:35)

I’d love to hear your ideas on refreshing the members of your family.

The simple things make all the difference; like a fresh candle burning, dinner on the stove, a fire in the fireplace, your favorite perfume and flowers on the front porch. Refreshing goes much deeper with; listening face-to-face, stopping to acknowledge the value of the child speaking, being available for conversation – as you drive or sharing meals together. Refreshing goes deepest in; a mother’s prayers, standing on God’s promises through hard times, speaking God’s word over our children, believing in their dreams and getting to know them as individuals rather than extensions of ourselves.

Refreshing brings a heart connection between others and ourselves. The definition of refresh is: Give new strength or energy to; reinvigorate. For the giver - in the fashion of sowing and reaping – we ourselves emerge refreshed.

In a world that’s grown cold and indifferent – let us bring freshness to everyday life – right here at home.

There’s so much more to say. Please leave a comment or a link and tell us your ideas.

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One Less

by Debi on January 15, 2012

One less – bell to answer. One less – egg to fry. One less man – to pick-up after. I should be happy … but all I do is cry …

Over the past week the words to this 70′s Marilyn McCoo song kept playing, over and over in my mind. There’s one less of us in this busy house. Why should this bother me?

Because I keep seeing this chubby little boy run through the house with a cowboy hat on, toting a rifle (that outweighs him) and a smile that will melt anyone’s heart. Flashbacks – they appear like a mirage at the strangest times. I remember driving home from the hospital and watching him in the car-seat – the wonder of knowing this little man, so handsome, so earnest and precious to us all. In case you’re wondering, I don’t have my tenses mixed up. I’m just able to relive the past like it’s present day life – I’m a mom.

Our son, Levi moved out today. He’s finishing up college at the university. This has been a long-time-coming and he’s ready to pursue his dreams at The Meadows School of Art. He’s been working for a couple of years in anticipation. The Lord has given him so much favor and clear direction. It’s all good. Tim and I are so pleased with him. Our hearts are full.

He was loading the truck with all of his earthly possessions – one trip did it. We held the morning long. Tim made his famous homemade biscuit breakfast for us all. I brewed some strong coffee to savor together. One last trip – I ran to Kroger to get Levi living supplies that guys just don’t keep on hand. He eats oatmeal for breakfast (his roommates will laugh), I snagged his favorite coffee, some toothpaste for when he runs out, canned soup – the good kind and essentials that he doesn’t know are essential – yet. Just about to check-out, I was taking stock of my loaded cart when I paused … a familiar sound. The words came out of my mouth in tune with the grocery store piped-in music. It wasn’t Marilyn McCoo – but a new, modern version of the old, familiar song One Less Bell to Answer . Time stood still. I just stood there in the middle of the isle until the song was over.

There has never been a young man that is more loved. Even in a big family or especially in a big family – everyone matters. No one wants his room – yet. On the way home from church, to break the silence, Joel suggested we use all the money we’ll be saving on groceries to take the family out for dinner – to his favorite burger spot, of course. We all smiled.

The next time someone asks me, ‘how many kids do you have left at home?’ – I’ll just say … ‘one less’.

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Glory!

by Debi on January 10, 2012

I Corinthians 11:15

Confession – Take Care Tuesday is late because … I had a conflict. A prearranged hair appointment at my favorite salon!

A girl’s got to keep her priorities straight! Right?

It amazes me how much better I feel when my hair is ‘done’.

When our first child was born, my first outing alone was to the hair salon. Some changes just had to be made.

When our kids were little and Tim was in grad school – money was scarce. I made a decision to make my hair a priority. It’s a woman’s glory – right? I knew I could wear the same clothes over and over as long I had ‘good hair’! I’ve never regretted this priority.

My little great grandma kept her hair wound-up in a bun with jeweled pins. As a little girl, watching her tousle it down and comb through with an ivory comb, I made myself a promise, to wear my hair ‘up’ someday when I got to be ‘old’. I’m still holding onto that image. I see myself, someday, as an elderly woman with my hair … twisted-up in a classy masterpiece upon my little old head. Glory!

Meanwhile, during these middle years, I spend precious time on Pinterest and YouTube learning what to do with my ever changing hair. I admit, it’s fun. I’ve always liked ‘fixing’ hair.

Today, after getting a fresh cut and a splash of color – I feel better already!! Forgive me for being late?

I’d love to hear YOUR hair ideas, or any ideas for taking care!

Please link into Taking Care Tuesday with your blog, Facebook, or Pinterest and share your own ideas. The link will go until tomorrow to make up for lost time.

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Take Care Tuesday

by Debi on January 3, 2012

It’s Tuesday! I’m officially starting my weekly series on Taking Care of Momma. I’m calling it, Take Care Tuesday!

As moms, we’re so busy taking care of our families that we often overlook the need to care for ourselves. We’ve all been guilty. A little homegrown pampering will do us all good. I started the series in the summer and got so much input from readers – I had to keep this going.

We can all benefit from a little more care and attention. And, as we do, our daughters are watching us and learning to care for themselves as well.

Today’s topic is fabric. The most natural we can find – cotton.

So, you don’t have to go to the spa (although I have nothing against that) and we all can reassess our personal care by looking around us and noticing the fabrics that touch our bodies on a daily basis. I personally recommend, cotton and here’s the reason why.

We live in Texas, where cotton farming is prolific. If you meet a bonafide cotton-farmer they WILL have an opinion on their product, I guarantee. And you know what? They’re right!

A little anatomy – our skin needs to breathe 24 hours a day. This is the primary way we detox. When we utilize our body’s natural means of detoxification through our skin, this gives our major organs a break. The liver, kidneys and lungs don’t have to work as hard. If this isn’t reason enough to convince you, here’s some more.

Cotton ‘breathes’ with our body and lets the air in, allowing for better circulation. That’s why, in the old days, people wrapped themselves in cotton sheets when taken by fever – the body can sweat out the toxic waste through the cotton – naturally. This natural fabric will draw out the moisture and keep the heat in. During the winter months it’s the best bedding, in moderate temperatures, to keep body-heat intact.

In our house, we sleep on cotton and make sure the bedding is natural – no synthetic fabrics for covers. Our kids sleep in cotton and avoid the chemical laced ‘flame resistant’ fabrics most kids’ pajamas are made of. Cotton is hypoallergenic and dust-mite resistant, which is the best choice of material for people who suffer from asthma or allergies, or those who have sensitive skin prone to irritation. Also, because cotton clothing breathes better, it’s the best choice to keep you cool in hot, humid weather.

Synthetic fabrics may be less expensive and keep their form – but do not compare to natural fabrics. The benefits of cotton are endless. I consider it part of taking care of myself, wearing natural fabrics. Cotton’s just more comfortable than most fabrics and better for you to-boot!

I tuck my kiddos into bed with cotton sheets and covers.
This fabric line-dries in no time, if you have a clothesline. I hang my cotton clothing indoors at times for the air-dried feel.
Wash your face and remove makeup with cotton cosmetic pads.
Cotton towels – aaahhh – big difference! I do prefer ours dried in the dryer – much softer.
Denim is cotton – need I say more? As I type this, I’m wearing my best, old, soft jeans – a winter favorite of mine. I’ll need to replace them someday – but not now.

Please link in and let me know your ideas on taking care of yourself – as a mom. You can link an older post if you like. Visit the other linkers for more ideas and connections.

I will return next week for more ideas and tips. I’m so excited about this connection. Will you join me? I’d love to hear how you take care!

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Tortilla Soup

by Debi on January 2, 2012

When I make a meal like this one – it’s easy to prioritize dinnertime. The smell draws everyone through the kitchen to peek and the leftovers, are better than the original version.

Here’s a recipe I’ve used for years. Like most of my favorite recipes, this one originally came from a church cookbook. Since I’m a Texan, I’ve tweaked this recipe and added some fresh options for a healthier, hotter version. I’m pleased to pass on this treasure and I hope your family enjoys it as much as we have.

Like any recipe I post – it’s been a hit for the girls and guys, young and old. This is a meal that I serve for company and take to friends in need. Tortilla Soup is easy to cook. I look forward to making this meal, and we all look forward to eating it. This recipe serves a family of 4 – so I multiply it several times over. Enjoy!

Tortilla Soup

2 cups shredded chicken (from whole, natural chicken – save the broth – always!)

1 large yellow onion – chopped fine

2 teaspoons fresh garlic (pressed)

2 tablespoons butter

1 16 oz can stewed tomatoes

1 16 oz can Rotelle tomatoes

1 4 oz can green chilies (fresh is better)

Broth from the whole chicken (3 cups – skim off the fat)

2 cups of beef broth (organic is best)

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

dash of seasalt

Cook the chicken on medium-low. Do not boil – it makes the meat tough. Drain, pull off the bone and chop. Use ALL parts of the chicken for a rich taste. I know it takes some work, but it’s worth it!

Saute’ onion and garlic in butter.

Add all ingredients (except chicken) simmer 30 minutes. Add Chicken and let simmer for 10 minutes with the lid on the pan.

Garnish with sliced avocado, natural tortilla chips and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. (add a plop of sour cream on top for a fancy look)

Serve this with Mexican cornbread, fresh tortillas, or loads loads of tortilla chips and Pioneer Woman’s salsa.

Joining forces with:

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Everlasting Noel

by Debi on December 27, 2011

Like Christmas All Year-Round

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:15-17

works for me wednesdays

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Gone Fishing

by Debi on December 27, 2011

I’ve enjoyed a much needed break from blogging and most of social media. This was an abrupt change. I realize there was no notice – no ‘gone fishing’ sign on my door. There’s a reason for that. I didn’t know I needed a break. (imagine?) Tim and I went on a cruise where I was forced to be disconnected. Once I got over the shock – it felt good – reeeaaallly good. I decided to go with it, ride the wave and see where it took me. We landed smack in the middle of the holiday season and I figured it was a good time to slip out – unnoticed.

The break felt so good and was timely in my life on so many levels. When the Lord directs us to slow down it’s just best to cooperate. This always leads to refreshing changes. The ebb and flow of life – God’s artistic design for His masterpiece. Creation.

Now that I’m back – I want to share some ideas I have and my plans for the future of this blog. First of all, I LOVE blogging and have NO intention of stopping. Above & Beyond is a blog I would read – that’s all I ever plan to offer. Giving myself to writing this blog has been a lovely journey for me. But, my life is no more kept and ordered for this mother. The livelihood of our little ones has spilled out into the community and overflowed around us. This is likely the busiest season of my life as a mother – so blogging will ALWAYS take a backseat to my family’s needs. This explains the breech in service. There may be more to follow – but I completely plan to return.

After much soul searching, I’ve come to a happy place in my planning. I want Above & Beyond to be a ‘commercial free zone’. Advertisements will not pop-up. There is and will be NO agenda – other than to encourage moms, like me – who need some strength, perspective and to know they are not alone. I WILL have giveaways! I enjoy this so. Publishers are gracious to offer these and I will only give those items that have enriched my life in hopes of spreading the love. When I find something that works for me, I just have to tell someone, but a salesman – I am not. I couldn’t even sell Girl Scout cookies – that’s another story.

I thank the Lord for Social Media and stay active on Twitter @mother211 and Facebook and Pinterest. Meet me there!

Finally, I will continue my series on Taking Care of Momma. I also want to hear your ideas, so I plan to open a Linky on Tuesdays – starting next week. Take Care Tuesday! So get ready to link up with me. (please!) We all need help taking care of ourselves and our families benefit the most!

If I haven’t returned an email or responded to a comment – please understand. This Christmas season was stellar for our family! My heart is full and I stand amazed at the grace and goodness of our Lord and Savior.

Don’t go away – I’ll be right back. Promise.

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My Cup

by Debi on November 28, 2011

This holiday season I’m asking the Lord to increase my capacity – to absorb His goodness. His works abound. Yet, my ability to absorb the goodness and faithfulness of our Creator – who is ever creating me in His image – is limited.

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” Psalm 23:5

Continuing my list of One Thousand Gifts:

100} Giving thanks with our table filled – shoulder to shoulder

101} Watching my husband walk in health – no words to express

102} Grandson growing in his mommy’s womb

103} Fall descending upon us

104} Leaves crunching underfoot

105} Dark skies – cool nights

106} Backyard fire pit – all huddled around

107} Favorite recipes gracing the table

108} Worship that ascends to the heavens

109} Prayers that ‘avail much’

110} Mercies that are ‘new, every morning’

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The Voice

by Debi on October 30, 2011

I’m home from The Relevant Conference. What a privilege it was to join 250 mom/bloggers in Harrisburg, PA for the 2^nd year in a row! I returned with a suitcase full of giveaways, my mind spinning with ideas, and anxious to see my family.

During my flight there I wrote this cool post – it was WAY cool – I fully intended to blog throughout the weekend with pictures and everything. I even brought my camera AND the manual! But, my plans came to an abrupt halt when the hotel Internet refused to comply.

The message from the Lord was more like ‘rest and peace’. Typing slowed and we all settled in, more intent than before. Cool, winter air invaded our comfy hotel as the first snowstorm of the season blew in. Huge snowflakes wove a thick blanket of white – it looked like a scene from White Christmas!

Relevant is such a unique experience. Multifaceted – like a women’s retreat, enrichment classes, getaway for busy moms, friend-connect, plus, opportunities for ministry interests galore. They even had a prayer room and live dinner music from David Nevue - the man behind the music on A Holy Experience. I got to room with Ali – An Ordinary Mom and her precious little one, Faith.

The mom/blog phenomenon is a cross-cultural movement. Relevant draws southern bells, embedded missionaries, those who rescue and those who have been rescued, farm girls, city slickers, and moms like me.

Women who treasure their families and love their God now have a voice through social media. A voice that circles the globe and reaches the heavenlies. Hammering out the cries of their hearts, creative ideas and inspirations – making a collective ‘sound.’ Thanks to the women who’ve put their heart out there like Emily, from Chatting at the Sky , Sarah Markley and Serena Woods from Grace is for Sinners, they have helped pave the way for a groundswell. I was honored to be a part. Next year I hear they’re moving to a larger place to accommodate more – I hope so.

Of these modern day disciples, there is no mold in which to conform. They’re a sliver of Christianity – a mixed drink from diverse streams of living water. Each reattaching her identity to the roots of grace and truth. In a world where ambition reigns – self-promotion is a stranger here.

The accomplished alongside the deer-in-headlights newbie – we all gather for one purpose. To know God and make him known, through Christ alone. Each conveying truth – from their vantage point. Theological differences aside. Solidly Christian. Salt of the earth – preserving culture from self-destruction.

At Relevant we’re all inspired by bloggers like Kristen Welch from We are THAT Family and Ann Voskamp who’ve used their platform to rescue the hurting and connect across the world – the resources of those who have to the needs of those who have not. Proverbs 31 in the age of information.

We were challenged by Ann Voskamp and Joy Forney – The Grace Full Mama to engage in social media with purity of heart and harness it as a tool to spread the gospel without ambition. Stirring the heavens as a “collective, roaring thunder”. Making the road straight for the voice of the Lord in the wilderness. And the Lord of the harvest – He brings the rain.

The Kingdom of God is at hand.

If you were at Relevant, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

If you’re considering blogging – come on in! The road’s paved for a smooth ride.

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Mommy – the ‘Machine’

by Debi on October 10, 2011

Have you ever felt like a robot?

Moving from one activity to the next - day in and day out – meeting deadlines, giving reminders, picking up debris – going through the motions … void of emotion.

Mothers are the ’heart of the home’ – but we can perform like a machine! And in so doing, we send a message to our family that we have no feelings, are immune to pain and can perform on command. Like a wind-up toy! In turn, when they expect us to keep moving as if we’re super human – we struggle to convey the pain. They struggle to understand.

Weren’t we the mom capable of working around the clock without complaint – just yesterday? Skipping meals, burning the midnight oil, winding ourselves back up with caffeine!

I marvel at the ability God graces us mothers to keep moving – regardless of ourselves. This emergency response system keeps life on course in hard times, we’ve all been there. It’s a gift! But in everyday life, robotic mothering can rob us of life’s rewards and literally wear us out – before our time.

Like you, I like to taste my food, feel the beat of the music and ‘hear’ myself think. I like textures, fresh breezes, and the sound of little feet across the floor. The familiar rhythm of basketballs thumping, wind whipping through the trees, laughter coming from the back room – these are all part of life’s symphony playing out around me.

But, when I’m all wound-up, the sounds of life – elude my senses.

When I find myself caught in this vicious cycle of motion - I have to awaken my soul. At times, I have literally stopped everything possible to reengage as a mother. I’ve called off ‘school’ and headed to the park with everyone – just because.

I want my memories to be sweet – not a blur. When I quit my robotic ways – I start to feel again and return to a real-life person, equipped with emotions, limitations and flaws. By design.

I love this scripture ~ written for moms, like us.

”She who refreshes others will herself, be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25.

How do you reengage as a mom? I’d love to hear.

Joining Thought Provoking Thursday @ Some Girls Website

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Mothering 101

by Debi on October 6, 2011

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word,
a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring,
all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”
– L. Buscaglia

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Apron Giveaway!

by Debi on September 20, 2011

To thank you for reading Above and Beyond, through the seasons, I’m offering this lovely handmade apron from Virtuous Designs.

Autumn is replacing summer ~ change is in the air! Don’t we all celebrate this welcomed change with food?

I’m no gourmet cook, but I fully enjoy the meals we make this time of year. The ideas are flowing and the energy to create something delicious is motivating.

You’ll be looking good in this beautiful apron. If you’ve never entered a giveaway – jump on in! It’s easy – and rewarding.

To enter – you have 4 chances – {winner is chosen by Random Generator at midnight September 25th and the apron is shipped to you by Virtuous Designs}

1} Leave a comment telling us what YOU like to cook-up in the fall. {I love these ideas – you can even leave a link}

2} ‘Like’ Virtuous Designs on Facebook! - come back here and tell me you did.

3} Subscribe to Above & Beyond – leave a comment telling me so – or that you already do.

4} Bonus: Subscribe to my NEW blog – Raising Patriots - leave a comment here, saying so. {I know this is a random idea which has nothing to do with aprons, fall or cooking … but it doesn’t hurt to try, huh? There’s little content so far, but more is coming – much more}

Joining Works for Me Wednesday, Raising Homemakers, Women Living Well & Thought Provoking Thursday - join me?

This offer is CLOSED – congrats Michelle!! Enjoy your new apron.

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Choose Life

by Debi on September 16, 2011

At creation, the Lord designed limitations as part of His divine plan.

Deep down, who really likes limits? We want more than we can have – by nature. Our desires, unless supernaturally regenerated, will take us beyond our limitations.

I’ve been thinking about this lately – alot. How can we enjoy God if we feel he’s short-changed us? This must be why Moses relayed God’s original message on choices - ‘Thou shalt not covet’.

As parents, choosing to live within our limits and to be content with what we have is a foundational message of faith for our children.

Our actions can say to them:

The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance. Psalm 16:6

In essence: ‘God is good’. As believers, we are the light of the world – preserving society from self-destruction. If we don’t live any differently than the world – what’s to offer? How can God be good if we don’t have enough?

Our nation is 14 + trillion dollars in debt. As a country we have lived beyond our means for as long as some of us can remember.

This isn’t only a Washington problem. All across the land, households spend beyond their means. We stretch for the forbidden fruit.

By design, there’s only so much to go around. Economics call this The Law of Scarcity.

One of the best things we can do for our children and our children’s children is teach them to choose. Life can be lived abundantly, while embracing its built-in limitations. Maturity, by definition, is ‘delayed gratification’. Just pick up an old history book and it’s plain to see. This ‘gotta have it all’ sense of entitlement is only new to our ‘progressive’ society. Our ancestors lives were rich in substance while lean in incidentals.

Mankind has been expected to live with limits ever since the garden.

Only heaven will be limitless ~ eternal.

Today, we have more options than any generation before us. With credit, we can blow right through our financial ceiling with no regard. As parents, we often want ‘just one more thing’ to secure our kids’ happiness. I am as guilty as anyone. We all get caught-up in the momentary pull of the culture. Choices are daily.

Accepting life’s boarders is a faith-walk that our kids can safely follow. We want them to live in freedom and contentment, enjoying all that the Lord has provided.

Remember the ageless Westminster Catechism?

What is the chief end of man?
Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 “I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the LORD your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of days, that you may dwell in the land that the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.”