Category: Encouragement

He > I (He must become Greater)

Greater_than_symbol*image from commons.wikimedia.org

 

As I am diving deeper into God’s word and opening my heart to God’s abounding love for me these past few weeks,  I feel like I truly have discovered the meaning of John3:30. He > I

It has definitely been one of those scriptures that continues to pop up continually like a song that gets stuck in your head on replay.

If you are like me, sometimes when I glance at the scriptures the words just seem so plain, confusing, so still, so flat. I am super analytical so I will try to take a three word scripture and try to find the meaning out of it all. Okay over analytical is more like it! Sounds strange, I know, but today these words stretched out with wide open arms, hugging my soul this morning.

“He must become greater; I must become less.” John 3:30

Now I may lose you for a second, but just hang on. It will all come together at the end!

Let’s take a look at one of the promises Jesus gives us over in John 10:10
Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy, I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (Other translations say have life abundantly) I like to look at it as this too,”.. and to have abundant life, more and more and more and more, forever!” My translation!

Watch the similarities here in the following versus of “even more.”

2 Samuel 6:22″ I will humble myself even more.”

Jesus said, “Even more, those who hear the word of God and keep it are blessed!” Luke 5:15

Romans 5:20 “But where sin is multiplied, grace multiplied even more.”

Philippians 1:9 “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernments.”

But on the flip side watch this…

Ephesians 4:19 “They became callous and gave themselves over to the promiscuity of the practice of every kind of impurity with a desire for more and more.”

Genesis 37:5 “Then Joseph had a dream when he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more.”

1 Samuel 18:29″ And Saul became even more afraid of David, as a result, Saul was David’s enemy from then on.”

*Beth Moore’s  Women’s Study Children of the Day illustrated these scriptures of being “even more”, and “more and more”.

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*image from ifcamedia.org

I began to realize that things we feel, think, and do GROW bigger and multiply! Scary and Awesome!

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*image from  mobc.org.au

Love and Hate, Sin and Grace, Fear and Peace. Even though they are opposites they are similar in the concept of growing, more and more. But God is good, isn’t he? No matter how far we let fear grow in our Hearts, he gives us peace, and instantly we are rescued to shore from the swallowing waters of fear.
No mater how much we have sinned, he tells us that his grace multiplies. Love covers a multitude of sin. “Fear not, for I am with you,” Jesus says.

So back to my topic here because I may be side drifting. When I put my faith in Christ I know that it will grow more and more. But before he can become Greater and me Less, I have to yield to he is love, his forgiveness, his patience, his endurance, his grace, his teachings, his will, his humility, his mercy, his gentleness, his meekness, his kindness, and obey his commands. I have to believe he is who he says he is.

As I emulate his ways, his attitude, his behavior, his compassion for others, like a seed planted into the soil of my heart, out springs forth a tree of Abundant Life of unspeakable joy, happiness, peace, etc.. more and more.  As I focus on all these things, my flesh desires becomes less, and less, and by abounding in Christ’s desire for the abundant life he died to give me, I am living out 2 Corinthians 3:18.

“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

This can not be accomplished apart from him! I am nothing good and I can do no good with out him.

Jesus’s influence in my life has to be greater then any other influence.

My Focus on Jesus in my life has to be greater then the focus on myself.

Jesus has to be the Center of my life.

Jesus has to be the Father I run to, and the friend I confide in.

he greater than i

 

*image from  aristotles-muse.blogspot.com

Sweet Friend, if we truly want to follow Christ and walk in his ways, we must become less, and he, JESUS, must become Greater!

xOxo

-Leigh Leigh

Follow me here, or on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/leighleighspeaks, or @ash_leighharris onTwitter!

 

Busting the Monday Morning Blues

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Monday’s happen to be one of my new favorite days of the week. I use to look forward to Friday’s because it was a sign of things ending and time to be spent resting with the Husband and kids. Don’t get me wrong I still enjoy Friday afternoon around 4:10 when he comes walking through the door from work, but there is something inspiring about Mondays!

Monday marks new beginnings. Last week is behind us, a new week hangs in the mystery of the future. Maybe the older I get the more I seek after challenges. I am really not sure!

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Picture found on newtritionblog.com

As you journey into a new week today I would like to give you some words of great wisdom found in Proverbs 21.

“Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity, and honor.” Proverbs 21:21

To pursue something means to follow, to get, to be involved in.

Righteousness means morally good.

Prosperity is a condition of being well, successful, or thriving.

Honor means you are respected or judged of good character.

So when we put this all together it looks like this….

Whoever (anyone) goes after; chases; gets in involved in morally good things, and loves, will find life, the state of being well and thriving, and respected and esteemed by others.

How does this look played out in ones life? Well I don’t know about you but for me it looks like this.

I can pursue my husband in love. I can put him before myself by thinking of his needs first above mine. This may be taking an extra ten minuets of my afternoon to rub his back after a hard days work. Cooking his favorite meal, when I would rather pop in oven pizza. Running his errands, instead of lounging by the pool.

I can pursue my children by putting their needs above mine. I can do this by spending extra one on one time when I would rather send them up the stairs to play together. Take them to the park to feed the ducks, instead of making sure the house is absolutely immaculate for 5 minuets! Reading them a bible story instead of turning on the television.

I can pursue my friends and family by picking up the phone or sending a text to let them know I love them, that I am thinking of them, and I am praying for them. I can invite them over for play dates, or lunch.

Pursue my blog so that it will be fruitful to those who read it. Pursue my laundry so that it doesn’t collect to be the size of Mount Everest and take me down in defeat while my children holler out they have nothing to wear by Wednesday. Pursue my home so that my family has a clean, organized place to land after all the weeks events unfold outside of them home. You get the point! 😉

Pursue my relationship with Jesus by praying, reading my bible, singing songs of worship.

I can pursue righteousness by making conscious efforts to set my thoughts in heavenly places. Pray to not fall into temptation of road rage, impatience at the grocery check out line, laziness, negative thinking, nasty critical snap judgments of others. Stopping and pausing before I speak. Remembering to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Fixing my eyes on Jesus.

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*photo found on tumbler18.com

Pursue is the exact opposite of Passive. We are creatures made to move not lie doormat.

Be inspired! Be excited that it’s Monday! It’s a new fresh start and as you go along this week remember to pursue, pursue, pursue!

Pursue love, righteousness and be amazed at its return of LIFE, PROSPERITY, and HONOR!

Stop and think about it for a moment. How will this week be different for you if you followed Proverbs 21:21’s advise?

xoxo

–Leigh Leigh

Let’s stay connected! Follow my blog, subscribe to email, or like Leigh Leigh Speaks on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/leighleighspeaks

 

Spa Pedicure Benefits

“Good things come to those who wait.” – unknown

 I am a little embarrassed to admit that I am 29 year old female, who has never taken the time to pamper my self with a spa pedicure. My sweet friend, Tiffany, about had a mini heart attack when I revealed this confession to her a few weeks ago. So, this afternoon she treated me to my very first ever spa pedicure!

I am so very grateful that she did because it was AhhhhhhhhMazing!

Spa Pedicures definitely warrant a…

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Did you know that not only do spa pedicures feel amazing, and leave your nails looking gorgeous and polished, they are actually beneficial to your health?

I couldn’t help myself when I wondered what the healthy benefits could be, so of course, I looked them up, and now I am going to educate you! 😉

Benefits of Spa Pedicures

  • Helps prevent infections and diseases in the nails

  • Provides a relaxing way to de-stress.

  • Decreases foot and lower leg pain.

  • Reduces the amount of odor your feet exude.

  • Helps prevent bunions and corns caused by dead skin.

  • Leaves you with soft, healthy, beautiful feet.

*Info found on spa.answers.com

blingy

My spa pedicure left my feet feeling silky soft and smooth. My toe nails are now perfectly trimmed and squared away. The polish is precise, not slapped on because I am in a hurry to get out the door. I Guess it was a good thing I decided to balance my check book today because it totally de-stressed me, and I left feeling lighter on my feet!

Check out my feet from my picture above, they are practically GLOWING! 🙂

If you have been holding out for a spa pedicure, let me encourage you to go get one!

You will not regret it!

Do you fit in the “never had one” category, or do you get them habitually? I would love to hear from you so please comment below!

Smiles,

-Leigh Leigh

Don’t miss what’s to come! Follow me and Like Leigh Leigh Speaks on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/leighleighspeaks

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6 EFFECTIVE STEPS TO DEFEAT, NOT REPEAT, A BAD WEEK

It has been a week! Not one I would like to repeat that’s for sure. It wasn’t physically demanding, but definitely mentally draining. I can honestly say, I cried and I haven’t just let the tears roll in months. It wasn’t until I got a grip and discerned what I was thinking out in my journal. Suddenly it became clear what was going on. I was under spiritual warfare and I was letting it get the best of me. If your week was similar to mine here are 6 EFFECTIVE Steps to DEFEAT, not REPEAT, a no good week!

6 EFFECTIVE STEPS TO DEFEAT, NOT REPEAT, A BAD WEEK

#1 Write it down

Go back through your week. Pin Point the first event, circumstance, thought, that knocked down the first domino in your mind of torment. Write the order of events down on paper.

#2 Recognize your Enemy

Was your week derailed out of chaos or disorder? Was it weakened by lies, deceit? Did an unexpected set back occur?

1 Corinthians 14:33 “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints,”

John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

1 Peter5:8 “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

#3 Recognize the bad seeds planted from your struggle(s)

I was dealing with some decisions I have made in my life on forgiving others who had caused harm to me years previous. I recognized it was a distraction to my calling to forgive and get past difficulties through Christ’s love and healing power. I was about to stop giving grace and mercy to a person, but realized this could be dangerous as I am in need of grace and mercy myself every day. I recognized that the seed planted was pride and unforgiveness. I also was dealing with another issue that’s core root came from jealousy. I know that these types of seeds planted in my mind are VERY dangerous for me to let take root and grow. Out of them springs anger, resentment, and bitterness. All things in which I do not want to have inside of me. What gets rooted in the heart comes out of the Mouth, (Matt 15:19). As a Jesus follower I am called for life free from this kind of bondage. My enemy, Satan, was out to steal my joy and he used some very personal issues to rattle the my cages. Once I recognized the warfare in my mind, I was able to stop the chatter of nonsense that was fueling my downfall.

#4 Forgive them, Forgive yourself

Whatever happened this week, what ever offenses were made against you. What ever thought of unforgivness you may have harbored. Forgive. Forgive them, and then forgive yourself for the set back. 2 Corinthians 2:10-11,” Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, 11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.” Unforgivness gives Satan the advantage in our lives. It also causes bitterness, resentment, strife which is the exact opposite of Love. Sometimes we need to extend grace and mercy to ourselves as well. If you let Satan’s attacks bring your down, don’t stay down, forgive yourself for the pity party you threw for an hour! 😉

#5 Let it Go

Proverbs 19:11, “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.”

Ecclesiastes 7:21-22, “Do not take to heart all the things that people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. Your heart knows that many times you yourself have cursed others.”

Let it go, forget about it, press onward, seek things above.

#6 Change your mindset

Tomorrow is Monday. I love Mondays because they are the beginning of a new week and new opportunities. I may have been blind sided this past week, but this week my eyes will be WIDE open!

Colossians 3:1 , “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

Lamentations 3:22-23, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

 

I hope you have a Fabulous week ahead!

1 John 4:4, “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

This is a little gold nugget. Tuck it in your pocket, keep it safe, and pull it out when trouble comes your way!

Lots of Love and Hugs,

-Leigh Leigh

Don’t miss anything!! Follow and LIKE Leigh Leigh on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/leighleighspeaks

 

 

Coconut Banana Bliss Pop Recipe

Cool, Cold, Refreshing

bananacoconutbliss

I love Fridays!! Nothing feels better then to start your day off with some heart pumping cardio, samba dancing fun! Last night I decided to throw some ingredients together in some new pop cycle containers I purchased at our local Wal-Mart. After I got home from the gym, I was thrilled to remember I had prepared these last night so they would be ready for today. They were the perfect refreshing snack after a hot and sweaty work out! These were so delicious I just had to share them with you guys!

ingredients

 

Super EASY and FAST to whip up!

What you will need:

1 banana

coconut milk (I used unsweetened vanilla)

Freezer pop containers (Mine makes 6)

Freezer

Easy Prep:

Slice banana slices thinly into the freezer pop containers, then add the coconut milk. Secure lid that holds the freezer pop stick. Place in your freezer to freeze. When completely frozen remove from Freezer and run the top under warm water until lid comes off easily. ENJOY

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Very smooth coconut and banana flavor! I will try using a few drops of vanilla abstract next time to enhance the sweet flavors of the coconut milk and the banana slices.

last bite

 

It was blissful and the kids enjoyed them too!

I hope you enjoy my Banana Coconut Bliss Pop recipe! Feel free to share with others!!

xOxO

-Leigh Leigh

Don’t miss any future recipes! Follow me on twitter @ash_leighharris and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/leighleighspeaks

 

The Flower child

Hippie-flower_-_Virginia_-_ForestWander

 

Kenna, my four year old daughter, is a complete joy and blessing. She has been a go get her since birth. She is my baby out of the bunch and she has just always had this way about her that oozes free spirit. You would find her shoulder deep in side walk chalk and candy as a toddler, and now her favorite past time is collecting bugs, dead or alive, she doesn’t mind.

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She enjoys the earth and all its dirt and glory, but she still loves to dress up in her princess dresses and put on make up with Momma’s high Heels.

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She may be a “Classy” Flower girl, if there was ever such a thing! She has recently asked me if she could sleep in just her shorts like her brother does! Which I followed up with , “When you are an adult living on your own, you may wear whatever you would like to sleep in, but for now let’s keep the jammies on!”

I promised the kids I would take them swimming when we returned home today from Mommies work out time at the Gym. When we stepped foot in our home, I hurried to make lunches and they scrambled to find their bathing suits. Handling typical Momma pre pool responsibilities, I was the last to get my gym clothes off and get changed, and just like clock where right as I am changing my shirt, Kenna bursts into my room unannounced to announce some nonsense none the less. I really think kids just have this six sense that tells them when Mom is not available and would prefer to remain unavailable to them, you know, bathroom breaks and other sorts! 😉

“Mom!” She blurts out!

I replied with a silent, “What?”

“YOU HAVE BRAS ON?” (Not to confuse you, I am not a freak of nature that requires two, as in plural, bras on at one time, she has always called a bra a bras!)

“WHY MOM!?”

I answered calmly, ” Well of course I do, it’s a sports bra Kenna, Mommies wear those when they work out.”

“WELL I DON’T LIKE THAT MOM, I DON’T LIKE IT WHEN YOU WEAR BRAS!”

At this moment, I am completely puzzled.

“Why Kenna, Why does this bother your or concern you that I have a sports bra on? Remember I told you before all women wear them.”

I almost couldn’t contain my laughter when she responded with such horror in her voice and shock on her face.

“I DON’T WANT YOU TO BE THE CRAZY MOM WHO WEARS BRAS!”

That was the completion of that conversation. I didn’t even have the words to respond!

I have to say I still sit here giggling just as dumbfounded as I was when the words first jumped off her lips trying to figure out why on earth wearing a “bras” would make me “The Crazy Mom!”

Wasn’t the “The Crazy Mom” the Lady who goes out in public with no bra on!? 🙂

So this concludes my suspicions as to why there isn’t a shadow of the doubt, that I am absolutely raising the next Flower Child.  I sure hope this mind set of hers changes before we hit middle school, or we may just have some bumping of the heads! I have decided it is not a bad ideal to pray for grace now for the days to come with Miss Kenna!

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I love that little girl to pieces! ❤

xoxo

-Leigh Leigh

Stay up to date follow Leigh Leigh Speaks on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/leighleighspeaks or Twitter http://www.twitter.com/ash_leighharris

As a married woman, I am not a fan of feminism

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It’s all over the news, let’s face it, it really isn’t anything new. Women wanting to be as superior and respected as much as Men. Equal rights they call them. I am not here to criticize the women who have strong beliefs in Girl POWER, I am however going to speak out in Freedom for women who are married. I don’t like this movement because it gives married women a sense of false security that standing up to their husbands is EMPOWERING and makes them STRONG and COURAGES. Marriage was not designed for the Woman to rule over the man in the relationship.

Naturally, submission is hard for every human on this planet, much less women who have had harsh fathers growing up, or a harsh husband now. Let’s take a look at what the bible teaches us on the topic.

Ephesians 5:22-33 teaches us instructions for the Christian household.

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22 Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing[b] her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— 30 for we are members of his body. 31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”[c] 32 This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

1 Peter 3:1-6  (NIV)

In the same way, you wives must accept the authority of your husbands. Then, even if some refuse to obey the Good News, your godly lives will speak to them without any words. They will be won over by observing your pure and reverent lives.

Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.

What I learn from these scriptures is that I am to trust God with my husbands authority. This “authority” God has given him as your husband is not to be used for selfish gain or dominance over you as a woman in a negative manner. This “authority” should be expressed through love! He can tell you what to do out of love for you and your best interest.

Every decision he makes for you and your family should be made out of love. So don’t be afraid of this, trust this! Believe in your husband and express this belief in him to him. Share with him how excited and thankful you are for his authority in your lives because it brings peace and security to you and your children.

I do have to add that if his authority that he wants you to submit to is bringing harm or danger to you or your children, then this is not the same “Authority” Ephesian’s 5 is describing. Marriage is a “partnership” and it has it’s roles and duties for each member of this partnership to follow.

**Spousal abuse is nothing to take lightly. If you or someone you know is currently being victimized by spousal abuse please seek help asap!

 

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Men need respect, trust, security, love, support, and peace from their Wife! The world teaches us to not have respect for the male species because they are all liars, and pigs.

I just recently saw how ugly this war is between men and women on another blog post. Now, men are speaking out on the feminist and how they will not waste their time holding doors open for another rude woman. How all women are just nags, untrustworthy, bossy, etc.

Satan is working hard to turn us against each other with all these equal rights fights. It makes sense especially since we learn in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 that two are better then one, because they have a good return for their work. Marriages are strong because they have the unity of two people who come together and fight as one flesh against the enemy with help from the power of the Holy Spirit. Women were designed to need loyalty, trust, and security from their husbands to feel loved. Men were designed to be respected, reverenced, and obeyed by their wives to feel loved.

Don’t let feminism make you believe you are not a strong woman because you submit to your husband. TRUST ME, it takes more COURAGE and STRENGTH to die to your prideful self, bite your tongue, and submit to your man, then it is to be rebellious as our sinful natures are! Submission to your husband is a strong act of obedience to Christ who calls us to submit to our husbands authority.

In Proverbs 31 we can see that a woman who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Who is he who can find her? She is far more precious then jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls. 

I have to mention also the importance of our obedience to our husband’s submission for our daughters we are raising. She is watching your every move. She adores you, she wants to be just like you some day. Are your actions in your marriage teaching your daughter how to be a feminist or are your actions teaching her how to be a submissive Godly wife to her future husband?

I haven’t reached perfection in completely submitting to my husband’s authority just yet, but I do continue to die to my prideful sinful nature daily and pray that the Lord gives me the love, grace, mercy, discipline, and strength to be a more submissive wife to my Husband’s authority. I know in the end my obedience to my husband will be a blessing to him and pleasing to the Lord, and I most definitely want both!

She is far more precious then jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls. (That my friends is a description of a beautiful Woman!)

X0Xo

-Leigh Leigh

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It’s my Birthday and I can cry if I want too!

But I wont! *(I actually wrote this yesterday, on my Birthday, but I got distracted and forgot to publish)

I am graciously welcoming 29 years of age with no tears and no fears. It has to be said though that I will probably mourn my twenties the day I wake up to 30, God graciously allowing me to of course! In my 20s I feel like I have accomplished so much but I really think 29 needs to go down in the books to seal the 20s chapter with a BANG!

I look forward to what this year of my life will bring with enthusiasm, excitement, and anticipation!

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XoXo
-Leigh Leigh

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Transitioning into summer break with the littles

Tomorrow signifies my first day back at my old J O B. Yes, my teaching duties are over until August and I am back to being a full time stay at home Momma! It always seems like a tense transition. This transition will be more difficult then the past because I had the privilege of having my husband home for the past six weeks!

We are foster parents and his job allows him up to six weeks fmla to help when we have a new child in our home. It was a HUGE blessing to us ALL! I can’t brag enough on him for what all he did for our family. I was working three days a week but was involved with things that kept me out of the house for technically four days out of the five. He cooked, baked, folded clothes, washed the dishes, straightened the house, took kids to the all the intake appointments, completed honey dos, and even grocery shopped! Seriously, he was a ROCK STAR and tonight I am sad because I am going to miss him being here helping me out so much!

MY MAN BAKES AND WASHES DISHES!!

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This week I will concentrate on getting the house cleaned, laundry caught up, a meal plan made, groceries bought, all while juggling a doctors appointment for my daughter and involvement in the activities the last week of school brings! I am excited that I do at least have a few more days to accomplish most of this while my older children are still in school.

I am promising myself that I will not stress on the mess summer brings with the littles home. This will be a peaceful transition as I find my SAHM groove back. This summer I don’t want to concentrate on completing all the lists of things that need to be completed upon the Pinterest SAHM standards, no I want this to be a summer that my kids remember how much fun there Momma was. We will play, we will swim, we will bake, we will go out for play dates, we will makes messes, we will be lazy on some days, we will have fun, all while I am teaching them still to become responsible clean young people.

Saying goodbye to the pressures of being the PERFECT stay at home mom makes you beautiful and free to get what your family needs accomplished first. These needs will change with the seasons of your life. My babies are not going to be little forever and I acknowledge this sad, sad truth.

How are you feeling with summer break days away? How will you transition into having the babies home for summer?

xOxO

-Leigh Leigh

Leigh Leigh Speaks joins Facebook

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It’s official, my blog has joined Facebook!

I hope that we can stay connected and feel like a community there.

Womanhood, Motherhood, it is ALL Challenging, tasking, exciting, scary, exhausting, fun, sad, happy, funny, etc.. Let’s face it, it’s just flat out a roller coaster ride as we are learning more and more about ourselves every step of the way. Please like my page, share my page, and share any blogs that are encouraging to you that you would like to share with others.

Journey with me as I share my life as His Wife, Their Mother, My best friend, working out, staying healthy, growing in faith, and following Jesus.

https://www.facebook.com/leighleighspeaks

Be Beautiful,
Leigh Leigh

Overwhelmed Much?

 

I am OVERWHELMED!

I have exactly one week until I turn 29 years old. This number has been a cruel reminder that I have one more year left of my 20s. Why does this freak me out so much? I mean its only 29! Shouldn’t I be going through these motions as a 29 year old fixing to turn 30? Oh well, guess I am a crazy person!?

“Do I suffer from Attention Deficient Disorder or am I just discontent?” I asked my husband late last night while we were talking about hobbies and things we enjoy doing. For giggles, I like to make fun of myselfso I started to go through the list out loud of all the crazy things I have done over the past few years. The joke really was on me when I started actually counting up my silly escapades of things we call “Hobby’s, talents, time fillers.” I laughed it off and dropped it.

The short car ride each morning to take my son to school has become my self reflection outlet. I love to get in the car and drive off into the beautiful sun rise knowing this is the start of a new day. The bright Sunshine brings warmth to my face as I sit at the four way stop waiting on my turn to take a left. I am almost home and whatever I do that day will not begin until the ignition is turned off and I make my way back into my favorite place I call home.

This mornings car ride sparked questions; what is it? Am I discontent Lord, or do I just have a super bad attention problem? I keep searching for that one thing that sets me apart that I love doing. Did you really create us to be good at one thing? I mean there are singers who sing, athletes who play professional sports, artists who paint, teachers who teach, dancers who dance, authors who write best sellers. Why can’t I just find that one thing I find joy in and confidence in?

I have to figure things out, when I can’t it drives me insane. So I did the only thing I know to do when I just can’t seem to put my finger on it I journal. I love how God knows what we are going to ask and when we are going to ask it. My journal time usually becomes a super divine conversation with my maker.

photo 2 (7) journals

I titled todays entry ADD OR DISCONTENTMENT and then I made a list of everything new I have tried in the last four to five years. I will just stop and say, I am a little embarrassed to share this with you because you will really think I am a CRAZY if you don’t already! 😉 Each item listed was going to be “MY THING,” you know that one thing you do all the time because you love it and you are good at it! I have only stuck with two of them which are in italics. I do however hope that the blogging becomes permanent!

  • Working out
  • Hair bows
  • Handmade get well cards/birthday box
  • Crochet (self taught by YouTube videos)
  • Journaling
  • Blogging
  • Mums
  • Hand made jewelry
  • Organizer binds for house chores
  • Flower Garden
  • Fondant cake making

 

 

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I then brainstormed what I loved to do when I was younger. I use to love making collages out of magazine clippings. I would love to redecorate and rearrange my room over and over and over again. I was beginning to make a connection. My 20s looks a lot like a collage of things I would have made when I was a teenager. I had collaged and collected all my interests and all I had left was a big mess of everything running together to create a blob of massive proportions: dollars lost, over flowing bags of ribbon, cardstock, glue sticks, and yarn taking over a closet in my house!

It wasn’t until ran out of lines to see the scripture that was printed on my journal page at the bottom.

The journal I am currently using was a Mother’s Day gift from my Husband and children a year ago. I LOVE this journal because on every other page there is a scripture posted at the bottom.  It is no surprise to me that the answer I was looking for would be starring right at me on todays blank sheet!

“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 3:17

OH MY WORD!!!!” Whatever you do,” it didn’t say the “ONE thing you do.” I was instantly hooked and reeled in on the word “whatever.” I knew if I dug a little deeper in scripture I would find what I was searching for. I proceeded to grab for my LIFE Handbook, my Bible, and I read over Colossians and 1 Timothy 6.

I kept staring at my list, there were so many things on this list in such a short amount of time in my life. Why so many? I then remembered how creative our Creator is. I mean stop and think about the variety we have on this planet; people, food, animals, plants, the colors each night of the sky as the sun is setting. He has created so many things and they all bring glory back to himself. I began to ponder if God has so much variety with us here on planet earth what is really the matter with having so many things on this paper? Maybe he doesn’t want us to limit ourselves to just one thing!? I closed my journal and read some more. 1 Timothy 6:6 says that” Godliness with contentment is great gain.” I knew I had let my imagination run off course and I was brought back with this truth.

I should not be too concerned about what makes me happy or wasting time comparing myself to other women’s talents, hobbies, gifts.

 I should be more concerned about how the desires, talents , and gifts God has given to me bring benefits to others not myself.

After all, My life really isn’t my own.

When you put verses 23 and 24 together in Colossians 3 you will realize that it all comes back to being a servant of Christ.

23″ Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

If your suffer from crazy ADD or DS (discontentment disorder), such as myself, make a list of all your crazy endeavors and then examine the motives behind each one and label that motive beside the item. Do they benefit just you, just others, or both? My motive list included attention, pride, and ways to make money. (Ouch) These things I can mark off. I can come back to them later in life when my motives are no longer one of the three previously stated. 😉 What brings joy or encouragement to others? Those things, you should keep!

This morning I found contentment in this truth; I am a servant of the Lord, and “whatever” I choose to do with my free time be it a hobby or just for fun, I should focus on my motives behind it, and if it doesn’t give thanks to the Lord and it doesn’t benefit others, I am wasting my time, energy, and focus on it. I need to drop it and let it go. This gives me freedom from being OVERWHELMED!!!!

Being mindful to be a blessing to others will bless you as well.

I have a new outlook on my hobby list and my condition. I do not suffer from ADD, but I do suffer from discontentment because nothing Godly was gained in my pathetic attempts to chase after things that did not bring any satisfaction to anyone else but myself.

I feel confident that I can now bring my focus back on to others while I am enjoying things that I love to do! Contentment is a BEAUTIFUL thing!

Be Beautiful-

Leigh Leigh

 

 

AWESOME Father’s Day Gift Guide for EVERY TYPE OF DAD

BES-FunkyFathersDayCards

June 15, 2014 is just around the corner and it is that time to scramble and find Dad the Perfect Gift!
I thought it would be fun to put a little twist on my Father’s Day gift guide by using the 5 Love Languages to help us find something meaningful this year for the Special Dad’s in our lives!
For those who are not familiar with the 5 Love Languages, they come from a book called The 5 Love Languages. The book explains how we all tend to receive and give love in different languages. They are physical touch, words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, and receiving gifts.

Physical Touch Dad

From the Children:

  • Gift certificate for a full body, or half body massage by your favorite professional Massage Therapist.
  • Homemade gift certificate for a good old foot scratching or rub.
  • A jar of hugs. Decorate a cute mason jar and insert strips of paper that say “free daddy bear hug” from your baby bear cub(s).
  • Homemade gift basket made up of manly smelling shower gel, and a new luffa or back scrubber. Say something like We wanted to “Shower” You with love and hugs on Father’s Day! Make sure the kids attack Dad with lots of hugs after he reads his card!

From the Mother:

  • Homemade massage gift basket containing essential oils, candles, and a soft soothing music or thunderstorm sound track.
  • Be more mindful to Dad’s needs on his special day by holding his hand, sitting a little closer to him on the couch, extra hugs and kisses for your MAN today!

Words of affirmation Dad

From the Children

  • Get out the construction paper, card stock, poster board, markers, crayons, pens, etc.. Create a beautiful hand made Father’s Day card and or banner and let Daddy know how much he means to you and how much he is loved!
  • Pick out a sweet Father’s Day card from your favorite store.
  • Sticky Notes- Post Sticky Notes all over the house with words of love for Daddy.
  • Make up a cute song and sing it to Daddy, or find Dad’s favorite song and rewrite the words to make it all about him!
  • Make T-shirts that say “My DAD is AWESOME!”, “MY DAD ROCKS!”, “MY DAD is #1”, and wear it on Father’s Day so the WORLD can see how special Dad is!

From the Mother:

  • Homemade Card with a list of what makes Your Baby Daddy the best!
  • Buy a sweet Father’s Day Card from your Wife at your favorite store.
  • Make a collage of words that describe him out of magazine clippings.

Acts of Service Dad

From the Children:

  • With Mom’s help cook Dad his favorite breakfast in bed!
  • With Mom’s help cook Dad his favorite lunch or Dinner.
  • Bake Dad his favorite Cookies, cake, dessert.
  • Team work- Take the load off Dad for one whole week. Offer to do all of his DAD Chores; take out the trash, mow the yard, feed the animals, etc..

Quality Time Dad

From the Children:

  • Treat Dad to Movie time whether is be at the Theatres or at home!
  • Take Dad camping!
  • Buy him tickets to his favorite Sports team game!
  • Take him Bowling together.
  • Go Fishing!
  • Go Hiking!
  • Go Sailing!
  • Go to the amusement Park!
  • Go to the water Park!
  • Go to the museum!
  • Go to the Zoo!
  • Go to an aquarium!
  • Go to the beach!
  • Go swimming at the pool!
  • Make a Map and Map out the whole day full of activities and fun!

From the Mother:

  • Book a get away vacation for just the two of you to his favorite place to unwind and relax.
  • Make him a DATE NIGHT coupon book. Let him pick the nights where you stay up late and watch a movie together alone, or hire a sitter and go out for dinner and a movie, etc.

There are countless things to do with this Dad. All he really cares about is just spending time with you!

Receiving Gifts Dad

From Mother and Little(s)

Adventure Dad

  • Guns
  • Ammo
  • Day at the Gun Range
  • Hunting Gear
  • Fishing Gear
  • Golf Gear
  • Tickets to UFC match
  • Gift Cards to Cabela’s, Academy, Bass Pro Shop

Grill Master Dad

  • New BBQ Grill
  • Grill accessories
  • Beverages to drink while Grilling
  • #1 Dad Apron, baseball cap
  • spices, seasonings, sauces
  • New Yeti Cooler
  • Portable mp3 stereo system and speakers for outdoors.

Athletic Dad

  • Gift Card to GNC, Vitamin Shop, Academy, Hibbett Sports, Dicks
  • New work out apparel
  • Golf clubs
  • Oakley Sunglasses
  • A cool new Sports Band that tracks, calories, heartbeat, sleep patterns, etc. (Nike Fuel Band, JAWBONE, Misfit)
  • Mp3 player
  • Beats headphones
  • ITUNES gift card for music

Book Lover Dad

  • Gift card to Barnes and Noble
  • Gift card to Amazon, ITunes (for a reader book on his electronic reader)
  • IPad
  • Kindle Fire
  • Books
  • A year Magazine superscription to his favorite Magazine

Electronic/ Gadget Dad

  • Flat screen TV
  • Stereo system for his Ride
  • Notebook, MacBook Pro
  • Blue Ray player
  • Blue Ray DVDS (his favorite movies)
  • Video game system and games
  • Camera, Video recorder
  • IPad
  • Kindle Fire

For the Dad who has it all

  • Homemade MAN bouquet that consists of his favorite beverages, beef jerky, cheese, crackers, chips, candy, and gift cards, etc.
  • Fresh cut Flowers
  • New lunch box
  • Cash

 

I hope this guide helps spark your imagination and aides you into finding the perfect gift for that Special Dad in your life!

xOxO

-Leigh Leigh

 

 

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