MOPS at CCC Aurora

More Than Enough by Elizabeth

2011-09-19T20:25:00.000-06:00

Note: This post is by a mom from our group. If anyone is interested in contributing to the blog or other postings, please contact Charlotte who is in charge of publicity for our group.

Every month I get my paycheck. Every month I carefully budget it out so that I can provide the basics for my two little girls. And every month, inevitably, I splurge when I get paid because I know if I don’t spend it then, an extra bill will come up to steal it away, or my daughter will ask for a date with me at starbucks- a favorite time of ours, and I will agree. By the end of the month I feel depleted and deprived. So then I splurge again, perpetrating a vicious cycle of never feeling entirely satisfied.

I noticed I treat my relationship with God the same way. I go on Sundays to church where I am given all I need for that week. Rather, that has been my mentality. That is not the truth. The truth is that God replenishes me every day. Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” I never need to fear I will run out of His Spirit. I don’t need to hoard it selfishly as I sometimes do with my extra money. Rather I need to share selflessly with others His Spirit and the gifts that He has given to me, trusting that He will renew and fill me each day.

2 Timothy 1:7 MSG says “God does not want us to be selfish with our gifts, but bold, loving, and sensible.”

-Elizabeth Sanchez

Walk of Hope this Saturday

2011-09-15T22:24:00.000-06:00

For any moms who are interested, this Saturday is the "Walk of Hope" to help raise money for a mom from our group and her daughter who is battling cancer. Click here to view details for the fundraiser and read about Natalie's story.

First Meeting of the Semester

2011-09-07T21:17:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe that summer is over! We are excited to kick off our first meeting of the MOPs year on September 16th. We will be meeting in the Community Hall at CCC starting at 9:45am. Please contact us if you are interested in pre-registration, or come a little early register the kids. Looking forward to another great year at MOPs! Hope you will join us!

Cancellation of September 2nd Event

2011-08-21T21:59:00.000-06:00

The event at Aurora School of Gymnastics that was scheduled for September 2nd has been canceled. However, we are looking forward to our first meeting of the semester that will be on Friday, September 16th. See you there!

Still some upcoming summer events!

2011-06-16T21:20:00.000-06:00

Hope you all are enjoying the summer! There are still lots of summer events planned, so be sure to check them out and rsvp if required.

July 1^st- Aurora School of Gymnastics, 3460 S. Fairplay Way, Aurora, CO 80014, 11am-12pm. Cost: $5/child, children under 2 are free ONLY with a paid sibling. 30 Child Limit.*** You must RSVP for this event to Brianna @ mrsnoffy@hotmail.com ***

July 15^th- Belleview Park, 5001 S. Inca Dr., Englewood, CO 80120. Meet at 10am, look for our group near the balloons. There is a train that goes around the park that you can ride for $1, a petting zoo that is $1 or the kids can just play.

August 5^th- Aurora School of Gymnastics, 3460 S. Fairplay Way, Aurora, CO 80014, 11am-12pm. Cost: $5/child, children under 2 are free ONLY with a paid sibling. 30 Child Limit. *** You must RSVP for this event to Brianna @ mrsnoffy@hotmail.com ***

August 19^th- Great Plains Park at 10am. Look for our group near the balloons. Bring a snack to share and let the kids play at the splash park (wear swim suits or clothes that can get wet) or on the playground.

September 2^nd- Aurora School of Gymnastics, 3460 S. Fairplay Way, Aurora, CO 80014, 11am-12pm. Cost: $5/child, children under 2 are free ONLY with a paid sibling. 30 Child Limit.*** You must RSVP for this event to Brianna @mrsnoffy@hotmail.com ***

MOPs Summer 2011 Events

2011-05-05T22:06:00.000-06:00

Below are the summer events that are scheduled for our MOPs group. Please note that some events require an rsvp and some are also limited in the number of children who can attend. Hope to see you there!

May 20^th^- Great Plains Park at 10am. Look for our group near the balloons. Bring a snack to share and let the kids play!

June 3^rd^- Aurora School of Gymnastics, 3460 S. Fairplay Way, Aurora, CO 80014, 11am-12pm. Cost: $5/child, children under 2 are free ONLY with a paid sibling. 30 Child Limit. *** You must RSVP for this event to Brianna @ mrsnoffy@hotmail.com***

June 17^th- Berry Patch Farms, 13785 Potomac St., Brighton, CO 80601, 10am. We will be going strawberry picking! The only cost for this event is for the berries you and your kids pick to bring home ($2.70/lb). Please email if Brianna @ mrsnoffy@hotmail.comif you are planning to come to this event, there is no limit but I need to make sure their crop is in before we go.

The first meeting of the fall semester will be September 16! Have a great summer!

Spring Service Project Ideas and a Special Surprise!

2011-01-08T21:49:00.000-07:00

Spring semester is almost here it is time to get back out into our community and help out!

We need your help with some suggestions or ideas for our spring service project.

So ladies, if the sky was the limit how would you help out the community around us?

To share your ideas, leave a comment below outlining your idea!

To "sweeten the pot" a little, one random comment will be selected

to win a very special surprise!

January MOPS Speaker - Randy Ferguson

2011-01-06T05:48:00.000-07:00

On January 7th, our MOPS group will welcome Randy Ferguson, M.A. as our January speaker.

Randy Ferguson, is author of the book “Outrageously Fulfilling Relationships”: a collection of powerful articles from his syndicated newspaper column “Focus On Relationships.” Randy uses a wry, satirical style in his speaking presentations, which are carefully tailored to your group’s specific interests.

As an International Leadership Trainer, Randy has traveled to Europe, Asia & South America training executive teams. His clients have included Ford, Mazda, Novartis, United Airlines, the U.S. Government and many more.

Steve Vannoy, Founder of “Pathways To Leadership”, describes Randy as “One of the most powerful speakers in America today.” He possesses a lively sense of humor and believes strongly that there is immense potential in all of us and we now have the keys to unlock it. He carries this message to enthusiastic audiences, through both his writing and his speeches, promoting the idea that we each have the capacity of make good lives GREAT!

*******************************************

For more information, check out Randy's website here

3 Simple Sentences to Empower Your Children

2011-01-05T05:00:00.001-07:00

Great article!

3 Simple Sentences to Empower Your Children

Colorado Parent

2011-01-04T13:23:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to a great parenting and family resource, "Colorado Parent".

If you don't have a chance to pick up a copy (available at libraries, grocery stores), just click on the link below.

Colorado Parent

You can also subscribe to the website and have updates delivered right to your email!

Helping Others

2010-12-17T06:43:00.000-07:00

Intersted in helping out others this holiday season?

For more information on the following project, please contact Amy Intriago at aheavers@hotmail.com

*********************************************

For those friends and family members who have everything, we are "buying a card" that states that this year's gift is going to someone who really needs it.

The idea is to spend whatever you would normally spend on that person (it doesn't have to be much), and in exchange get a Christmas card with pictures of some of the students at the El Floron K-12 Christian School in Ecuador.

You send the beautiful card to your loved one as their gift, and we send the money to Fundacion "Yo Te Amo," CO (like family to us) which is committed to helping this dear little Christian school stay open, pay teacher salaries, and with repairs.

I know the children there would be delighted to follow up with homemade thank you letters or drawings, if you'd be interested in having your recipient receive that as well.

If you'd like to buy any of these special gifts, please give us a call.

Thank you! Amy Intriago

Breakfast Casserole Recipes

2010-12-02T04:00:00.002-07:00

Need a recipe to bring to MOPS? Or looking for a quick and easy breakfast for a Sunday morning?

Check out the yummy recipes below!

If you have a recipe to share, please send an email to: jennifer.belo@us.army.mil

**********************************************

Baked Breakfast Scrambled Egg Casserole

Reprinted from Moms Who Think

Ingredients:
1 Dozen eggs
4 ounces cheddar cheese -- shredded
1 1/2 cups cooked ham -- chopped (you can substitute sausage, bacon, or canadian bacon)
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup green onions -- sliced
1/2 cup half & half
2 tablespoons margarine

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 250F and Grease 2-qt casserole pan.

2. In large skillet, melt margarine and saute onions until crisp tender.

3. In large bowl, beat eggs; stir in half & half and ham (or sausage/bacon).

4. Pour egg mixture into skillet with onions; mix well.

5. Cook over medium heat. As mixture begins to set, gently lift cooked portions with spatula so that thin uncooked portions can flow to bottom.

6. Avoid constant stirring. Cook until eggs are thickened throughout.

7. Spoon into prepared casserole dish.

8. Pour soup evenly over top. Bake at 250F for 30 minutes.

9. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and bake 10-15 minutes longer.

**********************************************

Easy Breakfast Casserole #1

Reprinted from Moms Who Think

Ingredients:
7 eggs
1 cup milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6-8 slices bacon - chopped
8 frozen hash browns (patties)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard

Directions:

1. Place hash browns in a single layer in a greased 9X13 baking dish. Cook bacon and slice.

2. Sprinkle with cheese and bacon.

3. In a bowl, beat eggs, milk, salt and mustard. Pour over bacon.

4. Cover and bake at 350'F for 1 hour.

5. Uncover; bake 15 minutes longer or until edges are golden brown and knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

10 Places to Enjoy Holiday Lights

2010-12-01T17:18:00.001-07:00

Gather the family and marvel in the sparkle of the season!

From toddlers to teens, it seems everyone can appreciate what tiny, colorful bulbs can do to a dark sky during the holiday season. Some adorn buildings, some are shaped like animals and others are woven through nature, but all of these holiday light displays are sure to bring your family together for a little extra warmth on a cold night.

******************************************

Winter WonderLights at The Wildlife Experience
Dec. 10–24, 5:30–8:30pm
http://www.thewildlifeexperience.org/

Stroll an outdoor trail of lights, visit with Santa Claus and live reindeer and learn about favorite winter animals. Afterward, visit the Extreme Screen Theater for a showing of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. $9 adult, $8 senior, $6 age 3–12, free age 2 and under. Purchase tickets online.

Trail of Lights at the Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield
Dec. 3–Jan. 2, Wed.–Sun., 5:30–9:30pm
http://www.botanicgardens.org/

Wind through a forest path of lights. Visit three themed areas including a winter wonderland with children’s play area and a tree house and an area featuring a tractor, Model-T display and restored 1880s Hildebrand Ranch homestead. Enjoy entertainment and hot drinks in warming huts. $9.50 adult, $7.50 student/senior, $6.50 ages 4-12, free age 3 and under. Hudson Holiday

Hudson Gardens and Event Center
Dec. 3–4, 10–12, 17–23, 25–31, 5–9pm
www.hudsonholiday.com

Experience lights and sounds of a walk-through holiday lighting display with horse-drawn carriage rides and a glowing Garden Railroad. $9 adult, $8 senior, $6 child. All ages. Reservations available in advance or at the gate.

Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo
www.denverzoo.org

Find more than 38 acres of lights, 150 animated animal sculptures, animal viewing opportunities, holiday music, warming stations and refreshments. $8 adult, $6 seniors, $4 ages 3–11, free age 2 and under. $2 discount for zoo members.

Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens, York Street
Dec. 3–Jan. 2, 5:30–9:30pm
http://www.botanicgardens.com/

View colored lights in elegant designs, featuring romantic kissing spots, entertainment on select nights, ice sculptures and illuminated Henry Moore sculptures along the path. The Shop at the Gardens will also be open. $9.50 adult, $7.50 student/senior, $6.50 children, free age 3 and under.

Living Lights at the Butterfly Pavilion
Dec. 11–19, 5:30–8pm
http://www.butterflies.org/

See thousands of lights illuminating the indoor tropical rainforest and outdoor gardens, for the first time this year. Discover outdoor lighted sculptures, “dancing butterfly” lights on the building’s exterior, witness ice carving, special exhibits on fireflies in Colorado, scorpions and their bioluminescence and more. Crafts and other entertainment offered each night of the exhibit. No reservations required. $10 adult, $8 senior, $6 ages 2–12, free under age 2.

Downtown Denver’s Lights in Downtown Denver
Through Dec., 6pm nightly
http://www.downtowndenver.com/

Travel downtown to see lights illuminating many prominent city landmarks, including the Denver City and County Building (1437 Bannock St.), Union Station (1701 Wynkoop St.) and Skyline Park (16th and Arapahoe St.), and the historic D and F Tower. Free.

Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs.
Dec. 17–Jan. 2, 5:30–8:30pm
Last tickets sold 7:30pm. Closed Dec. 24.
http://www.cmzoo.org/

Find nearly one million sparkling lights including more than 40 animated light sculptures, along with warming fires and indoor animal exhibits. Also, enjoy the view of Colorado Spring’s city lights from the zoo. $8.25 adult, $5.24 ages 3–11, free age 2 and under.

Neighborhood Holiday Lights
Through Dec.
http://neighbors.denverpost.com/holidaylights.php

Create your own driving tour of holiday lights by visiting The Denver Post online. View maps and choose light displays sorted by city, complete with visitor ratings and photographs. Free.

Cherry Creek North - East of University Blvd. and 1st Ave., Denver
Through Dec.
http://www.cherrycreeknorth.com/

Stroll through 16 blocks of holiday lights and décor while you shop a wide variety of independently owned shops. The newly renovated shopping district features new art and garden spaces, trees, creative landscaping and more. Free.

Reprinted from Colorado Parent

Weekly Devotion - 11/28/10

2010-11-28T04:00:00.001-07:00

"I teach my child right from wrong."
Little ones have so many things to learn: to be gind to others, to tell the truth, to be generous, to work hard, to love God. Every day I teach my child something new and remind him of what he's already learned. Still I wonder, will he be ready for the world? There are so many choices and temptations. Will he do what's right? My child may trip and stumble, but God will not let him fall. God will be holding my child's hand even when I am not.

Today:

I will help my child make the right choices, and I will trust God to help my child when I can't.

Dear heavenly Father, thank You for holding my child's hand. He knows right from wrong, but there are many ways to stumble. Please hold his hand extra tight when he's out in the world and I can't be by his side.

If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his stip firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
***********************

Excerpted from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

Operation Christmas Child Wrap Up

2010-11-23T06:47:00.000-07:00

On November 19, our MOPS group at Colorado Community Church - Aurora packed close to 115 boxes for Operation Christmas Child!!

It was a great morning filled with good food, fellowship, and giving back to those in need. The room was filled with happy chatter as the boxes were being filled - and then later, prayer as each table took a moment to pray over the boxes that they assembled.

If you missed the meeting, but still want to participate in Operation Christmas Child, it isn't too late to pack a shoe box gift! Operation Christmas Child introduces Build A Box! You can now go online and pack a shoe box gift until Christmas. Build A Box allows you to customize the gifts inside your box, upload a photo, write a letter, and learn the destination. Just simply click on any of the underlined/highlighted links above!

It's not too late to share Christ's love through a simple shoe box gift!!

MOPPETS Devotion - 11/22/10

2010-11-22T04:00:00.001-07:00

Be A Thanks-Giver!
What if you gave your best friend a great present, but your friend never said thank-you?How would you feel?Ten men were sick with a terrible skin disease.Jesus healed all ten.Only one man came back to say thank-you to Jesus."Where are the other nine?" asked Jesus.Only one gave thanks! Do we forget to thank God for all he does for us?How often should we thank Him?Every day! We can thank God for small things, like colored leaves.We can thank Him for big things, like healing someone we love.The Bible says,* "Thank the Lord because He is good. His love continues forever."Be a thanks-giver.Don't forget!
*Psalm 107:1

****************************************
A Verse To LearnThank the Lord because He is good. His love continues forever.Psalm 107:1
****************************************
A Story To Read
Luke 17:11-19
****************************************
Something To Pray
Thank God for the big and small things He has done for you!

****************************************
Something To Do
Make placemats. Cut out pictures of things you are thankful for. Glue them to construction paper. Cover both sides with clear plastic.
****************************************
Excerpt from "Devotions for Young Readers: 52 Easy-To-Read Devotions

Weekly Devotion - 11/21/10

2010-11-21T04:00:00.002-07:00

"I have friends who have children."
Being a mom is definitely rewarding, but at times I feel lonely. I long for adult conversation, someone who understands what it feels like to be a mother. Someone who listens to my concerns without necessarily trying to fix them. Someone who laughs and cries with me. I need friends who are moms like me. By spending time with other adults, I'll see that i'm not the only one who has "mommy moments." I'll have a support system of friends, people to help me up when I fall or fell too tired to go on.

Today:

I will ask a new friend to go with me to the park, come over for tea, or just push strollers around the block.

Heavenly Father, You have given me so much. How could I ever feel lonely? Yet You understand my need for friends. Surround me with the support of other mothers. Give me the courage to reach out to a new person, to make a new friend.

If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Ecclesiastes 4:10
***********************

Excerpted from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

Operation Christmas Child

2010-11-16T06:58:00.000-07:00

At our November 19th meeting, we will be packing boxes for operation Christmas child.

The mission of Operation Christmas Child is to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to needy children around the world, and together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Each table will decide how many shoe boxes they would like to pack as well as how they want to pack the box. We will then turn in the shoe boxes and they will be taken all over the world to kids that this may be their only gift for Christmas. The OCC staff also shares the gospel with the kids when giving out the boxes.

Below are some gift ideas to include in each box.

TOYS:
small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small Etch A Sketch®, toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky®, etc.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES:
pens, pencils and sharpener, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad sets, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.

HYGIENE ITEMS:
toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (in a plastic bag), comb, washcloth, etc.

OTHER:
hard candy and lollipops, mints, gum, (please double bag all candy), T-shirts, socks, underwear, ball caps; sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries)

A PERSONAL NOTE:
In a separate envelope, you may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or your family. (If you include your name and address, the child may write back.)

DO NOT INCLUDE:
Used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; chocolate or food; out-of-date candy; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snowglobes or glass containers; aerosol cans

Also, please donate $7 or more for each shoe box you prepare to help cover shipping and other project costs. You can give online by using Samaritan's Purse EZGIVE option. EZ Give is a simple, convenient way to make your shoe box donation online by using a credit or debit card, eliminating the need to place a check inside the box. It also gives you the ability to be able to track the package and receive an email letting you know that your package has been delivered to a child in need.

Or, if you choose, you can write a check to Samaritan’s Purse (note “OCC” on memo line) and place it in an envelope on top of the gift items inside your box. If you or your family are preparing more than one shoe box, please make one combined donation.

Give, and it will be given to you.

A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

Luke 6:38

MOPPETS Devotion - 11/15/10

2010-11-15T04:00:00.002-07:00

What's Inside Your Cereal Box?
Which cereal box do you pick in the store?What's inside your cereal box this week?A plastic toy that changes color? Stickers? A super ball?It is fun to look forward to finding the prize.Sometimes you have to eat a lot of cereal to get it.But cereal tastes good and it's good for you, too!When we read our Bibles, we find lots of "prize" verses.Sometimes we read a lot of good verses before we find a special verse.But it is worth the wait!Reading our special verses is like hearing God talk right to us!Search your Bible for "prize" verses, just like you search your cereal box!
****************************************
A Verse To LearnGod's word is alive and working.Hebrews 4:12
****************************************
A Story To Read
Matthew 7:24-27
****************************************
Something To Pray
Thank you, God, for the Bible. Please help me find some "prize verses.
****************************************
Something To Do
* Ask a grown-up to tell you one of his or her "prize" Bible verses.* Make a bookmark for your Bible. On it, write one Bible verse you like.
****************************************

Excerpt from "Devotions for Young Readers: 52 Easy-To-Read Devotions

Weekly Devotion - 11/14/10

2010-11-14T04:00:00.004-07:00

"I make our home a place of peace and comfort for my child."
My child will experience bumps and bruises, bullies and failure. Although I won't always be there to protect him from the world, I can make our home a place of peace. I can spark joy with cookies and laughter, soothe boo-boos with Band-Aids and kisses, and calm fears with warm blankets and soft touches. God wants us to live in peace. I can accept His gift of peace by making our home quiet when the world is loud, by making our home safe when the world is scary, and by making our home peaceful when the world is chaotic. I cannot change the world. But through God's great sacrifice, I have the power to be at peace, especially in our home.

Today:

My child and I won't rush out into the busy world. We will stay home and snuggle and find peace.

Thank You God, for the peace You've given my child and me. When my child is upset or sad, help me to comfort him - to provide security and peace in our home.

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33

***********************
Excerpted from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

MOPPETS Devotion - 11/8/10

2010-11-08T04:00:00.008-07:00

The Rule of Love
Line up. Sit down. Be quiet. No running in the halls. Raise your hand. School rules!God has His own rules, too. They are the Ten Commandments and the rule of love. The Bible says, *"We should love each other, because love come from God." God helps us love other people.Obeying school rules keeps us out of trouble. Obeying God's rule of love keeps us from having "people trouble."There are a lot of people who are hard to love. Do you sometimes think, "I don't like that kid. She lies." Or, "He punches."God does not love those sings, but he does love those people.God can show you how to love those people, too.You can smile, say something kind, or share a candy bar.God can give you HIS love for anyone! *1 John 4:7
****************************************
A Verse To LearnWe love because God first loved us.1 John 4:19
****************************************
A Story To Read
Luke 10:30-37
****************************************
Something To Pray
Dear God, someone I know who is hard to love is __________. Help me think of a way to show love to him or her.
****************************************
Something To Do
Play "Simon Says" with friends. Follow the rules of the game.Obey the rules at school all week.
****************************************

Excerpt from "Devotions for Young Readers: 52 Easy-To-Read Devotions

Weekly Devotion - 11/7/10

2010-11-07T04:00:00.003-07:00

"I teach my child to be generous."

There are toys and treats, goodies and games. Yet no matter how many of these my child has, there will always be someone who has more - and someone who has less. God has given my family so much. How can I teach my child to be thankful for his blessings and to give to others? I will start with the small. My young child can give a kind word, offer a smile, share a toy, or comfort a friend. And as he grows, so will his generosity. His measure will be great, for no matter what he has, my child can always share his love and his time.

Today:

I will encourage my child to give one of his toys or books to someone in need. Not a forgotten toy or a torn book, but a belonging he is fond of - one that give him joy. With that token he will give to someone else - and to himself - the gift of joy.

Dear heavenly Father, thank You for Your many blessings. Help my child and me to share them with others. Let us give freely and with great joy.

Give, and it will be given to you.A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.For the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

Luke 6:38

***********************

Excerpted from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

Project Glean - Photo Recap

2010-11-04T04:00:00.002-06:00

It was a beautiful day for our MOPS Service Project - Project Glean! The organization was incredibly thankful for all the help our MOPS moms and their families gave to the harvest!

Many thanks to the moms and their families for participating!

**************************************************************

November MOPS Speaker - Ray Lincoln

2010-11-03T04:00:00.001-06:00

On November 5th, our MOPS group will welcome Ray Lincoln as our November speaker.

Ray is founder of Ray W. Lincoln and Associates and Ray Lincoln Ministries. His services include Christian life coaching; professional coaching; seminars and workshops on parenting, marriage, personal development and more.

He is the bestselling author of "I'm a Keeper", a book that is being used in 7 countries and is receiving rave reviews from parents, teachers and psychologists and professionals. It teaches parents the most important skill they must have for successful parenting: how to understand your child.

Ray is originally from New Zealand. His has worked professionally in New Zealand and Australia, and he has been in the USA since 1971 because he met Mary Jo in Texas and decided to stay. He has over 40 years of experience in coaching and counseling. His earned degrees include a PhD in the Philosophy of Religion, a Master of Divinity and more. He has a masterʼs level of training in Psychology, which has been a passion of his for many years as he applied a biblical interpretation (rather than a secular one) to Temperament Psychology and found that this approach is, as expected, much more effective.

Lincoln lives in Littleton, with his wife of 27 years, Mary Jo and comes to our group to give us a helpful approach to “The Art and Science of Mothering” by addressing the subject of PARENTING WITH LOVE AND CONFIDENCE.

*******************************************

On Ray's website - www.raywlincoln.com - there is a Child Temperment Assesment that may be helpful for you and the Moms at your table to fill out before his presentation on Friday. Once you get to the website, click on the resources link. It will say that this tab is under construction, but the link for the Child Temperment Key will be on the right side of the page (as you're viewing it).

The Alphabet of Motherhood

2010-11-01T22:41:00.000-06:00

Ask for help.

Belong to a mom’s social group.

Care for yourself like you care for your children.

Dance with your children until the inner child in you comes out.

Eat chocolate – you’re entitled!

Forgive yourself for your mistakes over and over again.

Give up some control…seriously, let it go!

Have regular date nights with your hubby. It’s a gift to your children.

If you say no, make sure you mean no. IF you say yes, make sure it’s an absolute yes!

Judge no one – not yourself, your children, other moms, other children – life is hard.

Keep life simple for you and your family.

Laugh loud and laugh often!

Mommies have needs too, so make sure yours get met.

Never forget who you were before you became a mom, and who you are besides a mom.

Open your mind and eyes to what you can learn about yourself through parenting.

Perfection will only add more stress, so find joy in imperfection!

Question your mommy guilt. Do you really want to hang on to it?

Relax and take a deep breath. Turn your worries and fears over to God.

Savor the everyday moments with your kids.

Today is today, but tomorrow is a brand new day!

Undo those beliefs, habits and behaviors that no longer serve you and your family.

Vision, intention and action are the ingredients to creating your ideal family!

Who says motherhood is not the most important job in the world? They don’t have children counting on them every day!

Xamine your Xpectations to make sure they are reasonable.

You know best, so trust your judgment.

Zap all that energy draining clutter and drama from your life. You have enough to deal with.

**Reprinted with permission from the author

Lori Radun is a certified life coach, inspirational speaker, and author of

The Momnificent Life ~ Healthy and Balanced Living for Busy Moms.

Her website, www.momnificent.com, is a place where moms go for unconditional support and expert advice on living magnificent lives, personally, professionally and spiritually.

Weekly Devotion - 10/17/10

2010-10-17T04:00:00.002-06:00

"I set the tone in the interactions with my child."
"Not right now." "As soon as I finish." "In a minute." My child says mommy minutes are much longer than regular minutes, and she's right. It's easy to feel overwhelmed with my to-do list in hand - folding the laundry, cooking dinner, talking on the phone. My anger and frustration come bubbling up when my child wants my attention and I'm trying to finish just one more thing. Imagine if I called God's name and He replied, "Just a minute." Yes, there are times when we all need to be patient and wait, but am I always asking my child to wait? The to-do list grows every day - and so does my child.

Today:

When my child tugs at my knees or calls, "Mommy," I will turn to her and acknowledge her. She may still need to wait, but I will give her a gentle answer, knowing, that every moment with her is a gift.

Dear God, thank You for this child. Help me to be slow to anger, as You are. When my child calls out to me and I'm busy with the world, let my anger and frustration melt away.

A gentle answer turns away wrath,but a harsh word stirs up anger.
PROVERBS 15:1
***********************

Excerpted from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

Service Project - Project Glean

2010-10-13T18:55:00.000-06:00

Mark your calendars for our Fall service project on October 16, 2010

We will be participating in Project Glean. Farmers have donated part of their land for us to pick their produce. The produce that we are able to take off the fields is significant in feeding those less fortunate in our community. There is no age limit, so this would be a great time to bring your children and get them involved with serving in the community!

We will meet at CCC at 6:45am and carpool to the warehouse and then on to the fields. You should expect to drive anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes once you leave COMPA's warehouse facility to arrive at the field.

COMPA staff direct the gleaning activity, with volunteers harvesting produce from the fields and loading the trucks. Because of the weather and field conditions, volunteers are encouraged to bring the following:

Water
Mosquito/insect repellant
Snacks/Lunch
Sunscreen
Gloves, long pants, hat, sunglasses, appropriate footwear

Please keep in mind that restrooms may or may not be available, depending on the field. Actual work may involve anything from picking vegetables right off the plant to cutting cabbage heads off the stalk to carrying and loading up to 50 pound boxes on the trailer.

Please remember: You will be working outdoors in a farming field. Plan accordingly.

For more information, please check COMPA's website

Weekly Devotion - 10/10/10

2010-10-10T04:00:00.006-06:00

"I am an advocate for my child."
Because my child cannot always speak for himself, I am his voice, his petitioner, his advocate. Sometimes my desire for the world to accept and like my child is so great that I unfairly or aggressively assert on his behalf. But do my efforts really stem from the genuine needs of my child or from my own desire for my child to be first? God understands the all-encompassing love I have for my child, but He expects me to be rational. Good decisions are not made based on feelings alone. God knows what my child needs and how I can help him best.

Today:
I will be a rational advocate for my child. I will act based on my child's needs and not just on my emotions.

Dear Lord, temper my emotions and guide me to make rational decisions regarding my child's needs.

Speak up for thosewho cannot speak for themselves.
PROVERBS 31:8
***********************
Excerpted from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

Weekly Devotion - 10/3/10

2010-10-03T04:00:00.007-06:00

"I protect my child emotionally and physically."
As a mother, I believe my greatest job is to protect my child. I make my home safe and teach her about fires and feelings, but I can't always keep bad things from happening to her. Sometimes she gets sick or hurt or sad, and I wonder if I've done my job well enough. But God is my child's true protector, and I must put my trust in Him. God didn't cause these hurtful things. But God can help me comfort my child and strengthen her to overcome.

Today:
I will comfort my child in whatever way she needs. I will love her and encourage her to overcome life's troubles.

Dear God, give me the strength and wisdom to comfort my child in sickness, sadness, and pain. Protect my child from trouble.

You are my hiding place;you will protect me from troubleand surround me with songs of deliverance.
PSALM 32:7
***********************

Excerpted from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

Weekly Devotion - 9/26/10

2010-09-26T04:00:00.003-06:00

"I spend time with my child so I may talk to him and teach him."
Often I'm so busy managing my home, running errands, and taking my child to activities, I wonder how much time I really spend with him. Yes, I'm always around my child, but are we just rushing from place to place and chore to chore? Did I stop to talk to him and play with him? I don't want to miss these fleeting childhood moments. What would God say is most important? I want to create a garland to grace the head of my child.

Today:
I will play with my child. We will read a book together, take a walk, or play a board game. I will talk with my child and enjoy his company.

Dear heavenly Father, as I move through the day, help me slow down and enjoy the precious moments with my child. Teach me to be with my child, not just around him.

Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and
do not forsake your mother's teaching.They will be a garland to grace your head and
a chain to adorn your neck. PROVERBS 1:8-9 ***********************

Excerpt from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

October MOPS Speaker - Jon Holsten

2010-09-22T04:00:00.001-06:00

On October 1st, our MOPS group will be hosting speaker, Jon Holsten, veteran polic sergeant with the Fort Collins Police Department. Jon will be speaking to our group about a very delicate, but important topic - protecting our children from sexual predators, based on his book, "The Swimsuit Lesson".

Jon Holsten is a 15 year veteran police sergeant with the Fort Collins Police Department. As a patrol officer and detective in his agency’s Crimes Against Persons Unit, Jon has helped investigate and prosecute dozens of child sexual assault cases.

Jon is the author of the internationally acclaimed children’s book entitled "The Swimsuit Lesson" -- a resource for parents determined to protect their children from sexual predators. Both have been featured by local and national media -- including ABC’s Good Morning America. He has also written on the same topic for several national publications.

Jon and his wife, Ceri (Sear-ee) have six children and make their home near Fort Collins.

For more information about Jon or the book, "The Swimsuit Lesson", please click here to go to Jon's website.

Copies of "The Swimsuit Lesson" will be available for purchase at our October 1st meeting.

Thank You Einstein Bros. Bagels!

2010-09-21T04:00:00.002-06:00

A HUGE thank you to Einstein Bros. Bagels who provided all of the bagels for our first meeting on September 17th!

If you get the opportunity, please stop by the Einstein Bros. Bagelsat12073 E. Arapahoe Rd, Unit 100
Centennial, CO 80112

Mom Artist or Mom Scientist?

2010-09-17T16:10:00.001-06:00

by Jennifer Belo

This year's MOPS theme is "Momology - The Art and Science of Mothering." If you're anything like me, you're thinking - "I left my school days behind me!" But did you really?

Motherhood is a continuous school of both art and science. Who, but a mother can come up with a rainy day activity with just a roll of masking tape and a cardboard box? Who, but a mother, will conduct research about the latest and greatest parenting solution for teething, diaper rash, or colic? Who, but a mother, can whip up a batch of fruity-scented playdoh without batting an eyelash? And who, but a mother, can create a gourmet meal out of 3-day old leftovers and a can of green beans?

But as you know, it's no fun to create and hypothesize alone. Even the great artists and scientists had partners - DaVinci had the Mona Lisa and Alexander Graham Bell had Thomas Watson. As you look around your table, you will have the opportunity to form partnerships with other Mom Artists and Mom Scientists. But not only do we have each other - we also have one other partner in common - God.

God knows if you are an Artist or a Scientist. He knows each and every one of your strengths and weaknesses because He created you that way. And as we go through this new MOPS year together, God will also be there - guiding us, holding us, loving us every step of the way.

It is my prayer for our new MOPS year that each of you inspire and encourage the mom sitting next to you to stretch, grow and embrace her inner artist or inner scientist. It is also my prayer that, when you feel there is no one else that understands, you feel the hand of your Heavenly Father holding you close and guiding you to Him.

Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. (Psalm 139:10)

MOPPETS Devotion - 8/29

2010-08-29T04:00:00.015-06:00

A New Start!

Fall is here! Time for school to start! Time to get ready!
Lots of shopping to do! New shoes. New lunch box. New backpack. New pencils and crayons.

The first day of school is special. Exciting!
New teacher. New children. New classroom. A chance to start over.

With God, we can start over anytime. We do not have to wait for fall. When we've done something wrong, we can ask God to forgive us.

Because of Jesus, God erases our sins, just like an eraser cleans a chalkboard at school. The Bible says, * "If anyone belongs to Christ, then he is made new." We can have a new life with Jesus any day!

* 2 Corinthians 5:17

****************************************

A Verse To Learn

If anyone belongs to Christ, then he is made new
2 Corinthians 5:17

****************************************

A Story To Read

Acts 9:1-22

****************************************

Something To Pray

Thank God for erasing all your sins.
If you are starting a new school year, ask God to help you make it a good one.

****************************************

Something To Do

Sharpen a new pencil.
Use it to copy 2 Corinthians 5:17 on a new piece of paper

****************************************

Excerpt from "Devotions for Young Readers: 52 Easy-To-Read Devotions

International Missions Market -- 9/18/10

2010-08-25T04:00:00.001-06:00

Give Gifts That Give Twice!

You are warmly invited to a special day of shopping at Colorado Community Church! Come take a look at beautiful gift items from countries where CCC provides missionary support. All proceeds will aid our mission teams and their partner ministries!

International Missions Market
Saturday, September 18 — 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
CCC Englewood Campus
3651 S. Colorado Boulevard

You'll find original goods from Uganda, Kenya, Costa Rica, the United States (Lakota nation), Ethiopia and Cambodia. And as you browse, you can learn about lives that are being changed with your help!
Stop by the International Missions Market and pick up some creative gifts that really do give twice!

Weekly Devotion - 8/22/10

2010-08-22T04:00:00.021-06:00

"I am the most important influence in my child's life and her lifelong teacher."

Being a mom can be overwhelming at times. I often question whether I'm doing what's right - giving my child the love, attention, and discipline he needs to be successful in school and in life. I need to remember how blessed I am and that God chose me to raise this beautiful child because He knows I'm capable. He knows I'll make some mistakes, but He also knows I will be a good mother.

Today:
I will be a confident mother and thank God for the opportunity to raise my child.

Dear Lord, help me to be a good mother. Fill my heart with confidence and the understanding that You trust me to care for and teach this beautiful child.

Train a child in the way he should go,and when he is oldhe will not turn from it.PROVERBS 22:6 ***********************

Excerpted from "I'm a Good Mother: A Devotional Book for the Not-So-Perfect Mom"
by Gigi Schweikert

Welcome to MOPS 2010-2011!

2010-08-20T04:00:00.001-06:00

Yes, it's true, MOPS is just around the corner!

MOPS at Colorado Community Church in Aurora will be starting on Friday, September 17, 9:45 a.m-11:45 am.

We have changed the time by 15 minutes due to Cherry Creek Public Schools changing their start time for elementary school kids. This has had an impact on our MOPPETS workers. Please plan to join us for breakfast, a great craft, and 2 hours of childcare.

We will begin pre-registration the weekend of August 28 after each service at Colorado Community Church. Please complete a Moppets form for each child attending MOPS. Do not fill out a form for a child that will only be attending occasionally. You can send the forms to me as soon as you have them filled out, or wait until registration at church.

If you do not attend CCC Aurora, you may either:

- Mail your forms to me directly (address below).
- Drop them off at the church and ask the secretary to put them in the MOPS box.
- Bring them with you on September 17. (Not the best option, but better than filling them out that morning.)

If your forms are received by September 13, you will be pre-registered. That means that on September 17 you will have a pre-made nametag and can walk right into the meeting and childcare check in will go a lot faster. Trust me, this is the way to go!

The dues for the year will remain the same as last year - $48 per semester + $24.00 for MOPS, International. If finances are an issue, please plan to speak with Amy Turner at the second or third meeting about one of our scholarships. We will not be collecting money at the first meeting so that the meeting can run as smoothly as possible.

If you have any questions about our group, please do not hesitate to contact me or you can also visit our website.

I hope to see all of you soon!

Sincerely,

Jackie Frohne, MOPS Coordinator - CCC Aurora
5238 S. Jericho Wy.
Centennial CO 80015
303-550-8746
ajfrohne@hotmail.com

Momology - The Art & Science of Mothering

2010-08-16T20:01:00.000-06:00

Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.

(Psalm 139:10)

In 2010-2011, MOPS at Aurora CCC invites you to join in the learning process as together we explore Momology: The Art and Science of Mothering.

Mothering is both art and science. It combines all of who we are to shape healthy, resilient kids. Mothering is so complex it requires both sides of our brain – not to mention our hands and feet, eyes and ears, mouth and (sniff, sniff) unfortunately, sometimes even our noses!

There’s the scientific side of mothering where we develop a hypothesis based on certain principles, test that hypothesis in real-time, consider the results and decide what parts worked and what parts didn’t. We keep refining our hypotheses until we find what works for us.

Intertwined with the scientific, mothering requires an artistry that shades with our personality, colors with our unique gifts, and blends past and current experiences.

MOPS International has identified four essential elements for successful outcomes with our kids.

Core is about knowing and growing ourselves. Understanding and working with our unique temperament, experiences, and emotions in a way that develops resilience. Research clearly shows that a mom with a strong, resilient core is more likely to raise a child with a strong, resilient core.

Finesse is about honing practical mothering skills—intentionally carrying out our daily responsibilities in ways that encourage growth and resilience in our kids.

Circle is about building relationships with neighbors, care-givers, extended family and, most importantly, with our husbands or for single moms, with a parenting partner.

Grandscape is about engaging with God and his unique purpose for our lives. Both secular and Christian research identifies faith in God as an essential element for successful mothering.

Through Momology, as we explore together, we’ll be guided by an all-knowing, all-powerful, always-present God. Anywhere we go, God sees, knows, and guides. So we can lead — and love — knowing God will get us through all the hard spots, all our decisions, all our roles, all our times we can’t hold open our eyelids and the times we’re bursting with joy. God’s hand guides us as we guide our children.

As we study Momology together to become better moms making a better world.

************************************************

Stay tuned for future posts outlining more details about the upcoming MOPS year - such as times, locations, registration information.

"Momology" Book Review and Interview with Shelly Radic

2010-06-15T07:25:00.000-06:00

Summary:

Your go-to book for successful mothering. Mothering is part art, part science, and always a work in progress! Backed by more than thirty years of research-based ministry at MOPS Internationsal, Momology is designed to help you be the unique mother God created you to be - because better moms make a better world.

Author Biography:

Shelly Radic is chief of staff at MOPS International, author of The Birthday Book, and a regular contributor to MOPS publications. Her writing is informed by her education, mothering her four children, and twenty years of MOPS experience.

*******************************************
"Momology" has been selected as the core theme for the 2010 MOPS year and Shelly Radic's book, Momology - A Mom's Guide to Shaping Great Kids, is the theme book. I was very excited to read this book and I was also thrilled to have an opportunity to interview Shelly Radic, who also attends services at the CCC - Aurora.
As moms, we know that mothering is a constant work in progress, constantly changing and shifting as we try new parenting techiques. Momology isn't your typical parenting book - as most parenting books focus on the technique of parenting. This book focuses more on YOU as a MOM and is a great resource book that encourages and guides us, as moms, to be the mothers that God created us to be.

The book is broken down into four core elements:

Core: Looking and examining ourselves on a personal level and knowing who we are as women
Finesse: How we interact and "mother" our children
Circle: How we rely and utilize our support network around us
Grandscape: Knowing God and leaning on Him as we go about our day

The sections are easy to read and sprinkled throughout are real-life anecdotes from moms interviewed throughout the years of research. I liked the reflective questions at the end of each chapter as well as the yellow post-it notes with "mothering" statistics.

This is a great book for both self-reflection or group study. A forum has also been set up at mom-ology.org so that you can connect with other moms and discuss the book as well as "the art of mothering"

I LOVED this book and highly recommend it to every mom I know!

*******************************************

Interview with author, Shelly Radic

What has your personal experience with MOPS been like?

Rich, long, fun! I’ve formed relationships with so many great moms over almost 20 years in MOPS and I learn something from every one of them. When I first joined MOPS, I gained friendships, tips about raising my own kids and the knowledge that God shaped me uniquely and specifically to mother the children he’d placed in my care. That one statement is foundational to how I mother and gives me hope when mothering is going great and more importantly, when it is not.

Later, as a MOPS volunteer Group and then Field Leader, I extended my circle of mothering friends to include woman from around the world. My kids tease that we can’t go anywhere without meeting another MOPS person. And, they’re right. I also gained new skills as a leader- how to communicate effectively, build a team, motivate others, develop and focus on a vision, accept and learn from failure, be persistent. And so much more.

As a MOPS staffer, I gained even more relationships, both within the MOPS staff and with other ministry leaders. And a greater desire and need to lean on God. Many days I wonder why God has guided me to this specific place. Honestly, I’m a very ordinary mom and leader, a mix of doing it right and still trying to figure it all out. I’m not sure how God does it, but he takes my ordinariness and does the unexpected. That’s both humbling and a whole lot of fun.

How does a parent’s relationship/spirituality affect a mother’s impact on raising her own family (for example, how does my parents’ relationship affect ME as a mother?)

I’m on vacation at the beach with my parents, husband and two of my kids as I write this. Last night, my mom shared how she encouraged my dad to pray more about a difficult situation he’s facing. That’s one small example of my heritage and it does impact how I mother. Guess what I do when I face a difficult situation? I pray and I know my mom is praying, too. If you go into my mom’s bathroom, you’ll find her Bible and devotional book on the counter. Mine sits right next to my bathtub where I’m reminded each morning to dive into God’s Word. At my parent’s 50th Anniversary last year, their church friends pitched in to decorate, make food, organize set up and clean up. They are part of a rich spiritual community. Their friends from work, the neighborhood and relatives from all over spoke of my parent’s faith in God. That’s the kind of influence I want to have on my community. That’s the heritage I am trying to leave for my own children.

How do you suggest moms foster their relationship with God- especially when things get hectic around the house?

Remember God is there with you. You don’t have to go find him. As a young mom, I was often defeated by trying to do big things to develop my relationship with God. It wasn’t until I figured out that multiple small things, throughout the day and week can really add up that I got over that feeling of defeat. Short morning prayers while cuddling in bed with a preschooler, a Bible verse taped next to the kitchen sink to read while doing the dishes, singing to praise music in the car (kiddy lyrics count, too), breathing a petition for a friend in need while on Facebook, all those things add up to a growing relationship with God. And, I’m a big fan of the church nursery. Help your kids learn to love the children’s program at an early age so you can spend longer times with God- worshipping, learning, sharing your questions and experiences with others.

One other thing moms need to work in to the daily routine? Serving others and sharing our faith. One thing I learned from being in MOPS is that this can happen on a park bench, through a meal made for another new mom, or by gathering too-small clothes and sharing them with moms at a shelter. Again, in the season of early mothering, many small things make an eternal difference.

What are some ideas you can offer about engaging children spiritually?

As I mentioned earlier, mom’s (and dad’s) example is important. As I look back, I also think engaging with your children is important. Deuteronomy talks about how we are to daily write spiritual things on our children’s hearts. What does this look like? We prayed together as a family for each other, for our Compassion child, Freddy, for missionary friends, for friends that we’re struggling financially. We prayed at meals and at bedtime. We were also in community with other Christians, hosting small groups, having friends for dinner, singing Christmas carols at a senior center. Other Christians were part of our family life. Studying God’s word together is important, too. We read Bible stories and talked about Bible verses. Intentionally incorporate the spiritual into every aspect of life. That’s where it belongs. I do wish I had been more intentional about one-on-one spiritual mentoring, especially as my kids got older. Faith is unique to each person and in retrospect I can see my kids were dealing with unique faith challenges that I wasn’t addressing with them.

What are some ways women can make sure to nurture their marriage?

Nurturing a relationship with our husband takes time, just like nurturing a relationship with our kids does. Sometimes our marriage relationship gets lost in the midst of nurturing kids. Especially in the hectic early years, you have to find time together. Set aside a few minutes to check in with each other at the beginning and end of each day. I know moms need space, but over time, the "Tag, you’re it" handing off of kids can be hazardous to a healthy marriage. Build kisses, hugs and "I love yous" into your routine in the morning, in the evening, at night and times in between. Develop a relationship with a trusted babysitter so you feel good about spending time away together now and then.

One other thing, listen to and utilize what your husband thinks about raising kids, shaping a family and growing a healthy marriage. Sometimes we moms get so caught up in what we know, we don’t give our husbands a chance to take the lead. We lose out on all the ways God has uniquely shaped and equipped our husbands to love us and our kids.

The opportunity to review this book was provided by Revell - a division of Baker Publishing Group

Men Are From Mars (This Means War)

2010-04-16T23:37:00.001-06:00

"I just try to remember that everyone is fighting a great battle." That's how a family friend handles tough customers. She works retail; she should know. Good for encouragement and patience, I guess. But mostly I just like the idea of battle!

We're tip-toeing through this gray foggy world. Everyone wants to pick light or dark, white or black, right or wrong. Real life is way too complex for that constant precision. Even though you know you can't be perfect, you want to try to be a good guy. A good husband, father, neighbor.

Your only hope, then, is to boil it down to a story that's clear -- one or two fairy tales with real heroes and real bad guys. Then you can know who's side you're on. There's not much intrigue in being you -- timid, balding, middle aged, middle-of-the-road, mid-level manager earning average wages for a mediocre job somewhere uninspiring. What if instead you were Robin Hood or William Tell or Ivanhoe or Lancelot?

I don't mean fantasy. Not a daydream over the copy machine. I mean a subtle fable that you refer to when you make decisions that matter.

White lie about a coworker? What would Honest Abe Lincoln say? He would probably wrestle you.
Sell out? What would George Bailey say? He'd say It's a Wonderful Life if you stay broke but friendly.
Cook the books? Batman will drive a black Ferrari through your morning commute.
Passively resign yourself to middle class suburbia? What would Sarah Conner think of that? No fate but what we make.
Compromise your wedding vows? Merlin will claim your firstborn.
Minor export-control violation (sell weapons or defense blueprints outside the USA)? Iron Man will feed you to the starving residents of Gulmira.
Exploit your low-level workers? Think about Robin Hood or Clark Griswold.

[Editor's note: I just noticed that those bullet points look like cute little flowers on the website. Just when I thought "bullet" points were unquestionably cool.]

There are plenty of analogies and live-in allegories to choose from. Ladies like the soft, emotional ones where you have to outwit a nasty step-mother. As men we like rougher stuff -- like war. Most of us are not in a real war. Nobody is shooting at us. We rarely stay up for days with only adrenaline and cigarettes. We hardly ever see things blow up. So much for men being from Mars, god of war.

On some important level, we are all fighting the great battles that constitute a living war. The enemy is the wimp inside us, or the bully; the codependent alcoholic or the pious Pharisee.

The enemy has infiltrated your intelligence network and scrambled the signal. The enemy is telling you to turn the TV up and throw back another cold one instead of changing the oil. Play another round of Nintendo golf instead of taking the kids to a sunny park. Level up in Warcraft then saddle up for the Doctor Who marathon. Read the paper instead of having to look at your wife and children over breakfast.

The enemy is the rat race of consumer debt and impulse spending. The enemy is whispering in your ear that you've done enough, you deserve a treat, you can skip those calls you should make. Ignore the chance to make a friend or have a beer with the new guy.

Maybe the enemy is not the boys who want to date your daughter. Maybe the enemy is not your son's drugs or peer pressure. The enemy is not your wife's handsome new coworker. The enemy is not pornography but who's looking.

The enemy is ruthless. We will never survive unless we are ruthless. Hack off every little inoculated arm. Waterboard some answers out of your own internal POW.

So throw a grenade. Grab a machine gun or flame thrower. Radio for some air support. Drive a tank over the trenches and pump them full of mustard gas. Stick a pipe bomb in their chassis and send an exploding arrow into their exhaust. Carpet bomb the perimeter and take no prisoners.

We are under attack. If you are reading this, you are the Resistance.

The Good Work In Me

2010-04-16T23:29:00.002-06:00

The older my kids get, the more I wonder how
I'm going to react. I desperately want to protect my kids
from this x-rated world but I can't protect them from
everything. That scares me. I know all too well how
dangerous and x-rated the world can be.

I have two earliest memories, foundational
events: First, at the age of five, I said the "dear Jesus,
please come into my heart" prayer. Jesus forgave me of
my sins (few at the time) and lived inside my heart.
Second, I was sexually molested by a neighborhood
friend.

The best way to describe my childhood is like having multiple personality disorder. Behind face number one was a
passionate, little Jesus freak who wanted everyone to know about God's love for them. But behind face number two was a
very broken little girl who was far too sexually curious for her age.

However hard I tried I could not find the strength within myself to choose the right things. From the outside, I looked
like the perfect child, the perfect Christian. I was bold about my faith, telling everyone about my love for Jesus, and his love for
them. But there was a secret part of myself that was out of control and I could not reign it in.

When I was fifteen my mother discovered face number two. More than anything, I was terrified about having to tell
my dad. I feared that he would be disappointed and angry. Instead, I was met with love, grace and forgiveness. For the
first time, I began to understand God as the compassionate Father.

I always thought that I had to behave well enough and measure up. My parents took me to a Christian counselor who
explained that we couldn't do the right things on our own but that we needed to depend on the Holy Spirit to work in our lives.
I had spent ten years as a Christian but for the first time I understood Christ as the center and source of my life. A miraculous
transformation began to take place in me as I stopped trying to do good things but instead began trusting God to do the work
in and through me.

Philippians 1:6 says "For I am confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it
on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Looking back, I realize that I trusted God to begin the good work
but thought that I had to finish everything and make myself perfect. Now I see that He does it all. He does that work in us
because he loves us!

By no means am I perfect. (How about you?) I am a lot less messed up than when I was a kid. God has healed
some deep wounds that I had self-inflicted. He didn't protect me from meeting the x-rated world but he did restore me.

Now I have a wonderful, healthy marriage and great kids. Everything good in my life is not because I earned it. It is
all a grace from God.

As a mom, I find great hope and peace in that scripture. It is easy to become afraid when faced with the giant task of
raising the next generation. Ever feel overwhelmed?

Philippians 1:6 reminds me that I can send my kids in the right direction but their ultimate spiritual formation is not
my job. God is the one who begins the work and He is the one who will perfect it.

Men Are From Mars (Time to Dance?)

2010-03-19T23:25:00.000-06:00

by Dave Triggs (husband of Mentor Mom Diane Triggs)

There was a Fox News story this week about a study conducted in England that stated, “Humans may be born with a predisposition to dance.” They found that when babies in the womb are exposed to music that they have a tendency to move there arms and legs in rhythmic movements. Young children when exposed to music are often found jumping and dancing for joy with smiles on their faces.

In second Samuel chapter 6 verse 14 we find David the King of Israel “dancing before the Lord with all his might” and then in verse 16 we find “Michal the daughter of Saul (and wife of David) looked out of the window and saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord; and she despised him in her heart.”

I’m not sure what your philosophical position may be on dancing, but mine more often seems to take the same position of Michal where I despise it in my heart. I remember back when our children where younger, that quite often they would be “dancing” for joy with all of their might and I would be focused on trying to settle them down and get them to be quiet. I know there may be times were our children do need to be quiet and settle down. But I also think that sometimes I start feeling down about what happened that day, or yesterday or last week. Maybe words were exchanged with my spouse, or milked gets spilled, or I am just tired and worn out and discouraged and I want others to be down with me. So then when my kids are leaping and dancing before the Lord, I just can’t take it any more and I just want them to quiet down with me.

Life is hard. Bad things do happen. We do get tired. But maybe it is during these hardest and lowest times that we may just need to take a little time and dance. In Psalm 30:10-12 this same King David wrote “Hear, O Lord, and be gracious to me; O Lord, be Thou my helper. Thou hast turned my mourning into dancing; Thou hast loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness; That my soul may sing your praise to Thee, and not be silent. O Lord, my God, I will give thanks to Thee forever.”

As King David said, as we cry out to God for help, God can turn our mourning into dancing …which can then turn our sorrow into gladness… and then can turn our grumblings into songs of praise and giving thanks to God for the blessings that we do have instead of focusing on hard things that are happening around us.

As the study stated before, maybe that’s what we were created to do. Today, take some time to cry out to God and dance with your children or with your spouse or both. It may change your life.

Defining Moments (Special Mentor Moms Edition)

2010-03-19T21:36:00.005-06:00

by Karen Kennedy

Can you identify a specific event in your childhood that was instrumental in defining your life’s path? Do you think about what events might help determine the path for your child? Do you pray for God to allow your child to do great things? All of us can lead purposeful lives and be greatly influential if we ask God to empower us and our children to do the things for which we are created-to ask Him to use us for His greatness.

The Lord has led me down many different paths, but it is amazing how each one has prepared me for something that he has planned for me to do. I am able to look back at one particular time in my childhood that He has used to change and direct me. In the 5th grade, I was a skinny, confident child who was president of the student council. That summer, I became ill with Rheumatic Fever and was confined to bed for 6 months. I was not allowed to stand or walk at all, having to use a bed pan, be carried to the bathtub, etc. I gained 25 pounds! When I was allowed to return to school, they gave my parents 2 days notice and told me to stand up, walk and resume life. I thought my ankles would break, I had no clothes to wear and I was terrified. This was in 1957 when extremely pointed-toe shoes were in style. I was sent to school in 1” thick, red-soled, round-toed saddle oxfords, a skirt and blouse of my mother’s that she hastily remade and a face as round as a pumpkin! No one recognized me and many made fun of me with sneers and giggles. I needed God desperately and asked Him to allow me to help prevent any other child from having to suffer through such humiliation. I went through a period of anorexia and exercise addiction, trying to make sure that fat little girl never surfaced again. It took many years for God to help me regain my self-confidence, for Him to show me that He loved me unconditionally and would always be there for me, no matter what my physical condition was. I marvel at how much of a change He has allowed to occur. The girl who would break out in hives and almost pass out if she had to get up in front of a group now speaks to groups as large as 500, has taught aerobic classes for over 31 years, has had the privilege of healing people as a physical therapist for 42 years, has been helping people improve their physical condition for 15 years as a personal trainer, has led a non-denominational bible study for 10 years and has been able to do many more things that I could have ever done without being empowered by God. So, while you pray over your children watch for those moments that God might use to direct them in following His plan and bearing much fruit to His glory.

My favorite verse is: “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11.

Service Projects

2010-03-07T19:31:00.001-07:00

Spring has arrived and we have a chance to do what we can to serve the community around us. We are participating in the Running of the Green to support Volunteers of America Please let me know if you are interested in this event we have been given a special volunteer price of $22 per adult.

We are also going to be helping to put together boxes at the Food Bank of the Rockies
Monday March 22 8:30-11:30am. We are looking for people to go to the food bank to serve as well as take care of kids mom's can volunteer. We are also signed up to help on Tuesday March 23 4-7pm. If you have any questions please contact willow.call (at) gmail.com.

Miss Perfect Mom

2010-03-04T19:46:00.002-07:00

by Christa Flannery

Today I had a revelation. I'm over-extended. Like chocolate pudding spread across too much ham. Maybe Brian helped more than I thought. Now he's back to a job with regular hours and a commute.

The house is a wreck. A wreck, like roller skates on the stairs, toys mixed with food under the dinner table, re-using clothes off the floor because the laundry is un-reachably behind. I yelled at my favorite disobeyer so hard and so often that I lost my voice. Two weeks after our quarantine we have pink eye again. I've had three crumble-into-tears breakdowns this week (not counting the My Sister's Keeper trailer).

Someone called me "Miss Perfect Mom" the other day. Ah ha, absurd. Like a fever dream, a drug hallucination with talking bananas.

This morning my kids woke me up at 6:00 AM. I told my husband that I hated them. He left as fast as he could.

I'm not soliciting a parade of sympathy but to demonstrate that I'm just like any other mom: I usually don't shower until 4:00 PM. Deadlines come and go. I lose my temper as often as I lose my keys.

I find it's easy to look from outside in on someone else's life and make judgements.

"Wow, she has it together. Her marriage is perfect. Her hair is never out of place. Boy I wish my kids were like that."

"Bet you could find a den of rats under all those toys. I've never seen kids more out of control. I can't imagine how she conceived so many children. Boy I'm glad I'm not like her."

I'm sure I have been judged by both of those sentiments at different (same?) times.

Truth is, all of us try to raise our kids and keep our home to the best of our ability and we all fall short. Maybe I don't discipline the way you would. Perhaps my system for mobilizing kids puts yours to shame. Or could be my kitchen floor is beyond cleaning and just needs a good house fire.

While other people might look at the tidiness of my house, the behavior of my kids or whether or not I have a chance to bathe (or breathe), I'm glad God looks at the heart. That means I'm okay as long as I keep turning my heart towards Him, asking forgiveness when I fail, trying hard and stumbling humbly.

PS. It is 6:00 PM on Thursday before MOPS. These newsletters don't write themselves. If they did they wouldn't be so late.

Forget About It -- Men Are from Mars

2010-03-04T19:21:00.002-07:00

by Brian Flannery

One frustrating problem with kids is when they forget.
"What did I just say?" "Where did you put it?" "What did you do with Daddy's phone?" "Who hit the baby?"
(Respond all together as one "I dunno" chorus.)

Other frustrating problems with kids:
Potty training, diaper escaping, potty accidents, bet wetting.
Biting, hitting, fighting, rivalry, bullying, jealousy, favoritism.
Lying, embellishment, manipulation.
Busy, clumsy, break everything, nothing is safe or truly baby-proof.
Not sleeping through the night, bad dreams.
Licking light bulbs ("That's not candy!").
Hair pins in the electrical outlets.
Spoiled nagging whininess.
Stranger/separation anxiety, childcare crying, over-friendliness with strangers.
TV/no TV, sugar/no sugar, cow's milk/goat/human/soy/rice.
Growing too fast for their clothes, too slow for their age.
Failure to thrive or childhood obesity or stomach flu or other medical concerns.
When your wife rents that horrible movie, My Sister's Keeper.
(I cried at the trailer. Don't tell the other POPS!.)

I have no problem recalling this list of annoyances. I have a good memory. I don't forget things like a two-year-old.

Sometimes I do forget. For instance, I forgot one important problem with kids: That kids are not supposed to be a problem.

I don't just mean in the "seen and not heard" sense. (That would be nice.) I mean we can get too busy providing for them and disciplining them and educating them and changing them, sanitizing them, reorganizing, recombobulating, chauffeuring and emergency-room-waiting that we forget to be with them. Smile at them. Play. Hug. Love.

When I was home all the time, they were the obstacle. I wasn't getting any work done and I certainly wasn't making any money with these kids crawling all over me. Now that I am away nine hours every day, they are the missing part of the day. I see them before they go to bed, maybe.

I will leave it up to you to hum "Cat's in the Cradle" to yourself.

Remember! For it is the doom of men that they forget.

-Brian the old softy

Next week:
The important difference between swearing around your children and swearing at your children. Plus, that unsung nuance of parental profanity, swearing with your children.

.

Don’t Forget to Remember

2010-02-19T19:15:00.000-07:00

by Christa Flannery

Do you ever have moments of nostalgia? I feel like the past weeks have been full of remembering for my family.

For Valentine's Day, Brian and I visited an old coffee shop where we used to sit and read books together when we were dating. There, we sifted through some of the love letters that we wrote to each other when I spent a month overseas. We also went to a little Thai restaurant and recalled the two weeks we spent in Southeast Asia when we were newly married and pregnant with our first child. Lana (that one) and I have also had fun sifting through photos and old videos. We have looked through wedding albums and movies, baby books, family albums and talked about all the most joyous moments of our lives.

Once upon a time (not so long ago) we have celebrated great things: new love, grand adventures from opposite sides of the world, marriage, our first child (followed now by four more), birthdays, family reunions... the list goes on and on. Our life has been full and full of joy.

Yet in the midst of the day-to-day all of these fond memories are easily forgotten. It's easy to focus on the muck of a hard week or even just an average one. Whether it's just runny noses, dirty diapers, dishes, and laundry, and senseless disputes or ear infections, pink eye, sinus infections, stomach flu and the worst fights you've had in five years, it's not really that we forget, but that we've forgotten to remember.

The same is often true of my relationship with God. Sometimes I feel like we're an old couple who has settled into the routine of life. It's comfortable and it's there, but is it as alive and passionate as it once was? How could I forget the time that He revealed himself to be endlessly gracious, the Father who welcomes us home after many wayward wanderings? And how could I forget the time that at the end of my hope He heard and gave me all that I could have hoped for?

Then there are times when I stop and remember. I remember the different lessons that God has taught me and where He has brought me from. He becomes my first love all over again.

Whether we're speaking of marriage, or life raising young kids, or your relationship with the almighty God, I have found that it is important to stop and remember. There is nothing that helps you fall in love again more than remembering your first kiss, the first time you held that beautiful baby or the first time you realized that the same God who created the world longs for a relationship with you.

When I find myself complacent, all it takes is looking back and seeing how deeply I have loved and been loved. All of the emotions come rushing back and I find that after 3 years, 5 years, 20 years, (while it may look a little different) I still love my children, my husband and my God as much, if not more, than I did at the beginning.

The other important reason to remember? I have also found that in the midst of hardship and struggles it is often remembering that carries us through.

Looking back through baby books, I rarely recall the sleepless nights or endless screaming - but rather the first smiles, laughs and steps. Life going forward (especially pertaining to raising kids) is always more painful to travel through. When you're on the other side looking back you remember the joy and little pain. It seems like each day has taken forever, and looking back it will feel like we've blinked and missed it.

Looking back at our wedding day, I remember the vows that Brian and I said, how in love we were and how simple we thought marriage would be. While it's not always easy, looking back I see that we made a promise that we will spend the rest of our lives following through. Our love looks different, we're a little less naive -- but the commitment is the same.

Looking back at where God has brought me from reminds me that He is faithful. No matter how hard life has been, how lost I've been, how blind, how enslaved, God has always been faithful. Prayer after prayer has been heard and answered, wounds have been healed and God has proven to be constant. In the midst of current struggles, I can remember and know that God has not changed. He has saved me in the past and He will be faithful always. It doesn't always look the way we want it, but history has also proven that God knows best.

Take this week to remember with me...

Colors of Friendship

2010-02-19T19:13:00.002-07:00

by Elizabeth Sanchez
.
My older girl draws
Making distinct shapes
With a story she tells
Of Miyazaki’s soot sprites
From a movie “Spirited Away”.
.
A friend of hers draws,
Scribbling repetitive lines
With his two year old hand
While repeating her letters
As she spells certain words.
.1
My baby girl sleeps upstairs,
Unaware of anything
Except her soft breaths
And sweet fuzzy dreams,
Steeped in contentment.
.
I sit to write nearby,
Enjoying the happy chatter
And blossoming friendship
That comes so easily to kids
As they simply color together.
.
It brings to mind my friends
And the easiness of time spent
Simply playing with my girls
Or watching a rented movie
0r jamming to Rockband.
.
Such friendships are valuable
And feed my love language,
For I often crave quality time.
I take time to say Thank you God
For all the friends in my life.

Handy -- Men Are From Mars

2010-02-19T19:03:00.005-07:00

by Brian Flannery

Every so often for the amusement of my neighbors, I put the garage door up. There among my clutter I attempt something handy. I am about as handy as a club-footed midget amputee wearing an eye-patch. My projects usually result in wasted supplies, a few ruined tools and a lot of bandages. When I was a kid, Mom told me you got tetanus from scraping rusty metal. Now that I am older, I am less superstitious. Like a scientist, I'm waiting to see if I escape lock-jaw.

I started a project while Christa was at MOPS. The kind of project that should of taken an hour and a half, tops. Two hours later, Christa came home and asked me for help with the kids. No problem; I'm almost done. Another two hours passed and our neighbor across the street walked down to get the mail.

"What are you making?" She caught me at a bad time, kind of an anger management moment. I was swearing at inanimate objects and trying to keep down a little bleeding with a rag and duct tape.
I told her I was building a castle. Aren't we all?
"No, really. What are you making?"
It's hard to describe. "A kind of saw-horse."
“Oh. We have saw-horses. We bought them at the store."
"Well, I need a special kind of saw-horse.
"I guess. Ours look like saw-horses."
Mine looked like a medieval torture device. Imagine a Roman cross combined with a bird house and a weaving loom the size of a car. "Go away," I said with my mind. She went away and I felt bad for being telepathically rude.

Another hour and a half passed. A car stopped in front of our house. "Hey, get a job!"
Holy crud, is it that bad? I have no idea who this person is. "Hello, I'm Brian."
"Yeah. I'm your neighbor. We met you when we moved in. Hadn't seen you around in a while."
Yeah. Well, I'm working, so.... We talked more. I learned about his training and family. He didn't pry about my birdhouse torture loom.

He drove on. I returned to my opus which was almost stable. I call it stable if it stands up without leaning against the wall, a countertop, two stools and some cardboard boxes. That's how I frame my complicated inventions. A few more screws and a cross beam later, I stand back and gaze at my masterpiece. A finished thing is a thing, a thing. At last.

Then I tried to move it. It was heavy. I might have used two or three times too much wood. It wasn't pretty. The neighbors might consider it an eyesore. It was destined for the backyard. I had put the neighbors through enough. Trouble was, all those cross beams made it very clumsy to get near its center of gravity. So I had to crawl inside it. Surrounded by my infrastructure, I notice that all of the screws I used are about two inches too long. They stick through the beams from every angle. Even so, I lift this crown of thorns and scooch it a few shuffles at a time, pausing for air and to relieve the drilling pain. One false move would look like an elaborate suicide.

When I get to the gate to my backyard, I notice this oversized Trojan saw-horse is too wide to pass. I pause in despair. I could not imagine how many more hours it would require to disassemble it and re-assemble it on the side of my house. I looked up at the heavens and saw that they were grinning without sympathy. If I were Paul Bunyan, I would just lift the whole device over the fence. If I had twenty stout men we could do it. But I'm just little old clumsy me.

I rolled that saw-horse through the gate. Tumbled it head over heels. And when I rolled it where it belonged, I stopped rolling. It survived the jostling. Something about using way too much material with way too many fasteners made for one sturdy hurdy gurdy. To consummate my accomplishment, I sawed a branch in half using my custom saw-horse. It wobbled a little and it is one foot too tall. Then I went inside. My wife gave me two Advil and hassled me very little for blowing the day. I went to bed. Before passing out in pain, I thought to myself: Next time I'm going to invite the neighbors over. I might even ask them for help. Or borrow their saw-horse.

-------

Christa’s comments: Pick your battles (this works with kids, too). Some of the best lessons are taught by keeping our mouth’s shut. If nothing else, it makes for a good laugh.

-------

Brian's comments: My mother-in-law walked in on me twice while I was constructing my masterpiece in the garage. She asked a few questions then decided to drop it. When Christa showed her this article, she laughed loudly. "It sounds like he's exaggerating but he's not -- I saw it!" she said. So there you have it (in case you doubt...).

Rebekah (Part Two)

2010-02-05T18:39:00.000-07:00

by Christa Flannery

One thing that I have noticed about us as women, is that often we are well intentioned in trying to serve God -- but don't always trust that He can complete the task without our help. Have you ever found yourself in a situation like this?

A few years ago, I had a dear friend who was struggling with God and making some poor life decisions. I watched, knowing that God had great plans for her and wanted to give her so much more than what she was settling for. I knew that it was breaking His heart to see her turn away and make a mess of His glorious plan. Something had to be done.

If only I could convince her to refocus on God's love for her. If only I could direct her back to the path that she should be walking. But, in the midst of my good intentions and hopes to rescue my friend, I found myself communicating judgment, not grace -- and nearly destroying one of the most valuable friendships of my life.

We find Rebekah (our heroine from Genesis 24, with the amazing servant heart) in a similar situation. In the midst of an uncomfortable pregnancy, she asks God what's going on. He says her twins will become two nations and the younger of the sons will rule over the older. This was a direct contrast to traditions and the societal norms of the time. Rebekah loves Jacob, the younger son, who was foretold to be the one who would become the father of the Hebrew people (Genesis 25).

The problem comes in Genesis 27 when it is time for Rebekah's husband to give his blessing to the eldest, Esau, and name him the father of God's chosen people. What will Rebekah do? God clearly told her that it was Jacob who was supposed to receive this blessing. So, like any well intentioned servant of God, she took matters into her own hands. She cooks her husband a meal using Esau's recipe and convinces Jacob to disguise himself as his brother, thereby stealing the blessing.

Reading the story, I can't help but feel bad for Rebekah. She was simply trying to help God carry out His will and the process causes a few problems. Jacob ends up fleeing for his life from his very angry older brother. And can you even imagine the marital dispute her and Isaac had that evening??? In the end, Jacob and Esau make peace (as do Rebekah and Isaac) and God's will is accomplished. But, I can't help but wonder if things would have worked out a little more smoothly if Rebekah had just stayed out of God's way.

Like Rebekah, I made a huge mess with my friend. While I knew that God wanted better for her even more than I did, I took matters into my own hands. Subconsciously I believed God could not redeem her situation without my help. With the friendship on the rocks, I finally apologized to her for my lack of faith. After all, I am not God.

Completely without my help, God did rescue her from the situation and brought her back to Himself. He orchestrated for her a beautiful redemption story so much better than any I could have written. And by the grace of God, He also rescued our friendship.

While God often chooses to use us to carry out His purposes, He is also big enough to do things without our help. May we find the balance between serving Him and trying to steal His thunder by taking matters into our own hands.

Letters from Planet Mom

2010-02-05T18:37:00.003-07:00

Dear MOPS, Thank you so much for taking the time to read the newsletter -- and a special thanks to those who have written down your comments and concerns via email or the blog. After receiving a few concerns about our last "Men Are From Mars" Article, I wanted to take a moment to apologize and explain.

Let me begin by saying sorry if the "Men Are From Mars" Article has offended you. In the midst of our crazy week, Brian and I accidentally printed a draft of the article instead of the final. While the overall content was the same, we intended to delete some of the less tasteful words that had been printed. (The correct, final draft can be found at MOPSinfo.blogspot.com).

As moms, sometimes our jobs can throw us some PG13 (or even R) material that we must somehow convert into PG or G for our kids. As parents of four girls, Brian and I recently hurdled one of these such subjects. We brought home baby brother and it was inevitable that the girls noticed he was different. So, Brian and I began our discussion. What terms would we choose?

My thought was to use the technical terms "penis" and "vagina". Brian disagreed: "vagina" is usually not the correct technical term. He'd prefer to simply call them private parts. We still haven't came to a conclusion but we're working on it. In the end, what we decide is not nearly as important as choosing something. If we do not direct our children, someone or something will direct them for us. I pray that I never shy away from a subject simply because it's hard or adult content - but that in everything we do as moms we try our best and trust God to do the rest.

When I took the MOPS position of publicity I was immediately excited about Brian writing an article. Why? For several reasons.

First of all, parenting is not a one person job. Even if you are a single mom, your children need a male-perspective or role model. Our jobs as moms are priceless, but let us not underestimate the role of a father (or father-figure). Boys receive from their masculinity and self-confidence from their interactions with dad, and girls their self-esteem and self-worth ("Wild at Heart" and "Captivating" by John Eldredge, "Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters" by Meg Meeker, and articles such as those found at focusonthefamily.com all talk about the importance of dad).

Let's face it, men and women parent differently. “Men Are From Mars” is our attempt at shedding some light on the male perspective. Whether if offers a conversation starter for you and your husband, brings up a subject that you have not yet thought about or simply offers a laugh in the midst of a stressful mommy day, our hope is to enhance your role as a mom, your relationship with your spouse and ultimately your walk with God.

Never hesitate to let us know your thoughts! Send comments (and complaints) to Christa, Brian or post them here on-line.

Sincerely, Christa (and Brian) Flannery

Men Are From Mars (Who Buys Blue Light Bulbs?)

2010-02-05T18:33:00.004-07:00

by Brian Flannery

Someone invited our girls to a mermaid birthday party. Christa was out of town with the baby boy so I had to pack up the estrogen wagon and make it to the lagoon on time.

We arrived late. I had to carry the two one-year-olds and motivate the big girls to walk faster. The trip from the minivan to the door was exhausting. My motivators were sore; and the big girls were tired of getting a boot to the behind.

Then we stepped inside.

Blue light led us forward. Blue rippling streamers spanned the ceiling. Blue plastic tablecloths adorned the walls -- painted all over with undersea scenery. Bubbles poured into the room over a blue curtain. The finger foods were fish crackers and cheese sticks with little eel-like eyes (cloves). Mini cucumber cracker sandwiches and dyed green cream cheese. A smiling crab (carved red pepper) cradled the dip. The turquoise cake was topped with white foam and rimmed at the base with gravel (chocolate raisins).

The Little Mermaid soundtrack plays in the background. The hosting mother is unrecognizable as a purple-haired mermaid and compliments her guests' own costumes (we had only one to split four ways). The hosting father is dressed as a pirate and the kids soon discover a treasure chest (brown painted Styrofoam cooler) in the corner, full of sand (lima beans) and precious jewels (with convenient barrettes).

While the older girls take turns excavating treasure among the beans, the younger girls go fishing by casting lines over the bubble curtain and pulling out candy and animal crackers. The climax of the festivities is a jellyfish piñata that refuses its candy until one lucky child plucks the right tentacle. As the party wraps up, the soundtrack evolves into repeating ocean sounds, waves crashing. The parents watch their little mermaids get dizzy chasing bubbles, sugar crashing.

The youngest girls are swimming in the treasure chest beans and using them to fill up other people's shoes. (They will be vacuuming for weeks.) The older girls find their way around the fishing curtain and are helping themselves to the animal crackers by the handfuls. Someone is running back and forth catching bubbles in her mouth like snowflakes. Lima bean stowaways await discovery during the next diaper change.

-------

We survived the ordeal. My brother called me that evening asking about my day. This is my single, childless, heavily tattooed, military motorcycle brother. Halfway through my extended description (that you've just read) it struck me that he didn't care how elaborate this mermaid party was. He agreed. And then I thought of you, MOPS. You're brainwashing me.

Men Are from Mars -- Private Parts

2010-01-22T11:03:00.002-07:00

by Brian Flannery

The question is going to come up. "Mommy, Daddy, why does brother have a different bottom than sister and I?" By "bottom" she means, y'know, down there.

I certainly never thought about it before but it seems that boys and girls are different. And they notice. Oh, they notice. Even an only child or a family of all boys (or all girls, how horrible) will find out. Something will give it away.

That's when it's time to stop bathing with your kids. In fact, don't go to bathroom around them. In fact, try to get one of those androgynous outfits like that delightful Marilyn Manson comes up with. Bathe each child separately, secretly at different times of the day or at random. Otherwise, you're going to have to talk about it.

What do you say? What do you call it? Boys, "weewee," "peanut," "noodle," "ding dong". Girls, "fanny," "winkie," "front bottom." For both, "monkey," "groin," "peepee" or "P.P." (for "private parts"). I have not made any of these up. I'm sticking with "boy parts" and "girl parts."

It's my personal pet peeve when well-intentioned parents miscall the private parts in an attempt to be proper or scientific. The problem is, the more scientific you get, the more important it is to be precise. Girl parts are particularly prone to mis-classification. Rhymes with "China?" Not according to a doctor. (Truth by consensus, Wikipedia, agrees with the anatomy textbooks on this one, complete with photographs -- WARNING!)

Don't be fooled by the know-it-alls of popular proper-sounding vernacular. Isn't it better to use "silly" unscientific terms than to flagrantly misuse a clearly defined one. Would you tell your physician that your sinuses hurt when you actually only have a black eye?

Next week: "Where do babies come from? Ask your mother. She told you to ask me? Look, if I knew, do you think I would have so many?"

Fellow POPS! will meet tomorrow, Saturday, January 23rd, 11AM at Old
Chicago, Iliff and Buckley. Half hour of unhealthy food and manly, kid-free
conversation.

Rebekah (Part One)

2010-01-22T11:01:00.001-07:00

by Christa Flannery

Rebekah is one of my favorite characters in the whole Bible. In Genesis 25, Abraham (father of the Hebrew people) sends out his servant to find a wife for his son, Isaac. After a long journey, the servant settles near a well and prays that God will show him who Isaac's wife should be by this sign: that when he asks for a drink of water, the woman will also offer to water his camels. Along comes Rebekah and fulfills everything that the servant had prayed before he's even finished praying.

It's easy to see the miracle that God performed in answering the servant's prayer so immediately. But what about Rebekah's part? Was it super-natural inspiration that had her offer to water the servant's camels? Was she magically at the right place at the right time? I'm not convinced.

Rebekah was simply doing her evening chore. She was at the well every evening, at approximately that same time, because it was her family duty. And I think that Rebekah's offer to water the camels was her amazing servant heart in action (Between the servant's ten camels, Rebekah probably served 260 to 400 gallons of water!)

As moms of young kids, it's easy to get discouraged, to feel like we do nothing significant. We stay home, wipe hundreds of running noses and change millions of dirty diapers (not to mention the laundry, dishes, vacuuming, etc). Is what we do really important or significant to other or to God?

I imagine Rebekah pouring gallon after gallon into the water trough thinking "God, I feel insignificant. I wish I could do something more important. I wish I had something more to give." And God met her there. He saw in her simple (yet overwhelming) act of service what He was looking for and made her the mother of the most important nation in history.

The next time you find yourself thinking "I wish I was doing something more important" or the words "I'm just a mom" drain your courage, remember Rebekah. As moms, we're more like her than we can imagine. We do our day to day, simple but often overwhelming tasks. You know what? It's exactly where God wants us to be. He has and will continue to meet us there. Why? Because there is nothing more important than these little lives, and the investment that we make into the future by investing into them.

Men Are from Mars: Isolation

2010-01-08T10:57:00.001-07:00

by Brian Flannery

Engineers are weird. Once I walked among them. I am ever grateful to one who warned me, in engineer language, that having a child "was a step function."

He meant that life's complexity and difficulty did not slowly, gently increase by 1 or 2. It did not multiply by 2 or 3. No straight line ramp up. It just jumped from 4 or 5 (depending on your marriage) to 107 without transition. The next child takes you up a sheer cliff to 1000+. The third and further children affect the scale less and less. (Their names blur, your hair grays and the years go quickly.)

My cousin, more human, said that everything he thought he and his wife had learned about communication was completely useless as soon as a child appeared. If you wait a few years between wedding chapel and delivery room, you may notice the change more. My wife and I jumped from confusing married communication into confused parent conversation so quickly it all formed one high-volume static screech.

It is easy to feel trapped, alone in a crowded house. When you and your wife disagree on something intense like discipline or your work schedule, then you're alone. After a terrible morning of screaming, kids and poop, you barely make it out alive. Then you come home and she says, "I've been thinking I'm ready to have another baby." So you unilaterally make a vasectomy appointment.

Sitting there in the sterile waiting room, surrounded by men who are exactly the same as you, still you are alone. That's how men are. We like long drives and quiet, empty rooms and speechless, faithful dogs or a day spent with no one but the TV. We pull our hats down and squint at the bitter breeze that scrapes across our rugged bristles.

When the moment of betrayal hits; when you look at your spouse -- you thought you were in this together -- and realize that you are, in fact, completely alone; when your life boat's one man crew shudders at the stormy waves and contemplates the big, empty flatness beyond; when the night is dark and the late stillness plays tricks on your mind and you are at last afraid to be alone, remember: You are never alone.

This is not a Barlow Girls song. This is war. People in Hell are alone. You are not alone. When you're in the trenches with tunnel vision, don't forget you have one key soldier beside you. You are nearer than you think to having your spouse as an ally. Give up the two front war: "Me vs. the Kids" and "Me vs. the Mrs." Instead, join forces! Teach those kids a lesson.

There are POPS! fighting beside you in the same battle, for the same cause. What if spiritual armies fight on your side? What if a resurrected Christ roots for you and a Spirit is rebuilding you from the inside out? You can stand and fight in good company or you can flee.

For camaraderie in action, join your band of brothers. Fellow POPS! will meet Saturday, January 23rd, 11AM at Old Chicago, Iliff and Buckley. Half hour of unhealthy food and manly, kid-free conversation.

Strength in Weakness

2010-01-08T10:52:00.001-07:00

by Christa Flannery

By the time my children were in bed this evening, I was utterly exhausted. The kids seemed to be extra ornery this evening. Brian was working late, leaving me to fend for myself. I am out-numbered. Five to one isn't great odds in my favor. But we did it, everyone was jammied, kissed and sent to bed. Then I collapsed.

Sometimes I wonder if I really have the strength to do this, to raise these kids well. Looking back on my day, there are a few things that I could have handled a little better. I could have been a little more patient, a little more loving, a little less hurried. In my moments of self evaluation and questioning, I am reminded of this story from Hannah Whitall Smith's "The Christian's Secret of a Happy Life":

I was once visiting a [mentally handicapped home] and looking at the children going through [hand-bell] exercises. Now we all know that it is a very difficult thing for [the handicapped] to manage their movements. They have strength enough, generally, but no skill to use this strength, and as a consequence cannot do much. And in these [hand-bell] exercises this deficiency was very apparent. They made all sorts of awkward movements. Now and then, by a happy chance, they would make a movement in harmony with the music and the teacher’s directions, but for the most part all was out of harmony. One little girl, however, I noticed, who made perfect movements. Not a jar nor a break disturbed the harmony of her exercises. And the reason was, not that she had more strength than the others, but that she had no strength at all. She could not so much as close her hands over the [hand-bells], nor lift her arms, and the master had to stand behind her and do it all. She yielded up her members as instruments to him, and his strength was made perfect in her weakness. He knew how to go through those exercises, for he himself had planned them, and therefore when he did it, it was done right. She did nothing but yield herself up utterly into his hands, and he did it all. The yielding was her part, the responsibility was all his. It was not her skill that was needed to make harmonious movements, but only his. The question was not of her capacity, but of his. Her utter weakness was her greatest strength.

And if this is a picture of our Christian life, it is no wonder that Paul could say, “Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Who would not glory in being so utterly weak and helpless, that the Lord Jesus Christ should find no hindrance to the perfect working of His mighty power through us and in us?

While everyone around me is making New Year's resolutions, I simply want to rest in my weakness. This mom thing is exhausting but I know that God's strength is perfected in that weakness. Whether we have one child or five under three years, we need Jesus. Rather than trying harder this year, why not surrender to the only one who can play it right every time?

A Hostile Time to Be a Dad -- Men Are from Mars

2009-12-18T10:48:00.001-07:00

by Brian Flannery

Babies are made of rubber, not porcelain. The stairs are a great place to play. Bruises mean new discoveries. Crying can sound a lot like laughing. In fact, crying can become laughing so easily and subtly (then back to crying again) that it is best just to keep tickling.

My daughter comes up to me and asks, "Put me in the sky and say, 'shaken baby'!" She asks this because it's her favorite game. She runs into my arms, I lift her and launch her heavenward, catch her, tumble her and tickle her screaming, "shaken baby!"

No one else thinks this is funny.

How to solicit applause: Skip a night at the bar to take your girl out to a ballgame; tell someone you work from home or you're a stay-at-home-dad so you can be closer to your family; pack the toddlers in the stroller and stroll down to the bank one Saturday morning.

The world loves the idea of an involved father. But the applause is superficial. They love the idea of a father who cares about his kids but the reality of male parental involvement inspires a surprising lack of comfort. If you prove yourself a capable and caring father, beware. There are many parenting techniques shared by mothers and fathers but men bring a distinctly male bag of tricks into the nursery.

From mothers a child receives warmth, nurture, nourishment and calm, soothing comfort. From men, they receive their sense of balance, impervious resilience to minor physical injury and other fortitudes of spirit. This reassures the child that Dad is strong, fun, a little bit dangerous but loving. Stub a toe, scrape a knee around Mom, feel free to sob the sad song into her comforting bosom. Around Dad you better take the pain, learn from it, walk it off and grow stronger. Every child needs both -- to know someone in the world cares and yet to know someone believes they can hack it.

That rough, unpredictable and sometimes painful masculine attribute to fatherhood is under special scrutiny today. In a world crying out for authentic father figures, firm burping swats, baby juggling and extreme strollering are met with gasps and stern frowns. There are dragons, self-appointed guardians of the universe on the watch, ready to spot the man who dares a public display of rowdy fatherhood. They will spot you and make sure everyone knows they are gasping and frowning. They may even bring up the threat, the ultimate weapon in the gasping frown arms race: "shaken baby."

Never fear. We're on to them. These thundering clouds don't expect us to be so prepared. I will tell you how the Boy Scout's motto dowses the fiery breath of those who whisper, "shaken baby." The actual deadly action of baby shaking is a specific repeated motion. Knowing exactly what it is -- defining the forbidden sequence -- frees you from the fear of it. It not inadvertent. It is the last resort of negligent caretakers driven to exasperation by their own inability to deal with a crying infant.

Paradox: A baby is safest with a father who is roughest. Baby shakers are not devoted dads who gradually take their playful involvement one step too far.

At Daddy Boot Camp they passed along the truth: You can jiggle, jostle, toss and bump a baby in every way except this one violent body-shake, front to back without reinforcing the head and neck. All babies have big heads in proportion to their bodies. All newborns have weak necks, too weak to bear the whiplash. All other motions are permissible.

In fact, healthy daddy time strengthens the neck by being a little rough. No father would make the shaken baby mistake if he had the experience of playful roughness. You learn too much about how the baby works, how much support they need and what feels safe, what feels awkward, painful or dangerous.

As for me, I'm going to toughen them up. Fathers unite! POPS risk gasps and frowns. "POPS" is not an acronym; it is an explosion. Unpredictable, unsettling and prone to make babies cry. That's how we save their lives.

Vertigo

2009-12-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

by Christa and Brian Flannery

Fellow moms, ever get vertigo? That dizzy, sudden fear of heights?

You look at these small, mini-humans. You're in charge of them. You're responsible for them. You're usually so darn busy keeping up with them that you forget to reflect on the sensation that you are skirting the edge of a cliff.

Their size contributes to the illusion. It's easy to imagine they will remain so cute and dependent.

What if they grow up? What if you stop to catch your breath when they finally free up your day by starting school? You might turn around to find your child is gone, replaced by another adult, who has become your new peer.

Has it hit you yet? A little spinning nausea?

Don't look down. Life is fleeting. We're racing the clock with kids in tow. Why don't they grow up and do some of this on their own? These little lives that we chase and feed and wipe their noses and bottoms -- they have such a short tale of history behind them and yet so many more years ahead. Were we ever that way? Someday will we be like our parents are now? Will our children have children? Will this baby hold babies like I hold him?

Sometimes the house stays messy. Sometimes Mom takes a nap while they play, roaming free in the mostly baby-proof house. Sometimes she wonders how it's possible to love these little people more today than yesterday but finds this is the case anyway. And sometimes she savors the moments that may never come back.

But then the plunge and the gasp as our cold-water-busy-life takes our breath away again. Time, time, time. Time to get your shoes on, put that down, where's your jacket, everyone in the car! Hurry, stop crying, don't hit, say sorry, can I have a hug? Who's hungry, who's stinky, who's slowly sneaking up on me and Father Time?

What if my short mom span will be one of my most important? Then the dizziness is not so bad. All the pressure and fresh riskiness of standing so close to the edge melts in welcome gratitude when a little hand wraps my finger and an everplayful face smiles, "come on".

If a redeemed spirit is immortal
and nothing from this world will remain
except these little toddling souls,
what a treat to have some time
to get to know them before we go
and all meet at last at home.

Practicing What We Preach

2009-12-04T23:14:00.001-07:00

by Christa Flannery

When Brian and I finalized the adoptions of Ada and Tirza five months ago, I declared that I never wanted to go through the foster care roller coaster ever again. It was too hard to live (and love) with the fear that I was going to lose the girls. Over the past month or two God gave me a little perspective and reminded me of the lesson that I wrote about in the last MOPS newsletter.

All of our children (biological, foster, adopted or step) belong to God. We are called to love them while we have them and trust God with the "how long". When I was writing "Stewardship and Foster Parenting" I felt very strongly that it was the message that God had for the women at MOPS. Turns out it was for me.

On November 24th Brian and I received a phone call. "Ada and Tirza's biological mom is delivering a baby boy today. Would you be interested in taking him?" We were a little shocked. Brian and I had just decided to start trying to get pregnant again (and had even begun praying for a boy) but we had expected nine or ten months to prepare. God's timing is not always ours.

Social Services dropped the newborn off at my grandma's house just before Thanksgiving dinner. We call him Baby Jude.* Last week I was visiting with Karen, a friend who stopped by to meet the baby. I was grateful for her enthusiasm. Not everyone is thrilled about our newest addition, including some close friends. Shouldn't Christians be the most excited about new life and taking care of orphans?

Karen told me, "That's why I'm not a Christian and don't go to church. So many people that say they believe in God are the biggest hypocrites." It was a great opportunity for me. I apologized for the inconsistency of others. As for me, all I could say was that I want my actions to meet my words. I hope that Karen and everyone around me sees consistency in my life.

It is our lives, our day to day example, that can show others who is our God. Let us live consistently with the Word of God and what we speak to others. We don't have to be perfect, just consistent (and ready to admit our imperfection). Christianity is not about perfection. It's about repentance, humility, forgiveness and loving others.

As Brian and I begin the adoption adventure once again, we try to keep perspective. Jude, like our four girls, is not ours. He belongs to God. I am not perfect but I'm trying to practice what I preach. I want to love Jude like he will last forever and trust God with the "how long". I wrote it; now watch me live it (and let me know if I fall short).

*Jude is temporarily in my parent's custody because their foster care license is current. Ours lapsed when we adopted the girls and said, "Hands full; no more for now." Please pray our hands grow and that Jude can be placed in our home as soon as possible.

Are You Crazy? -- Men Are from Mars

2009-12-04T23:06:00.003-07:00

by Brian Flannery

When people hear we are working on fostering another child, the first reaction is usually, "Are you crazy?" In defense of my sanity as a man, let me explain that I understand the question. The last thing I need is another baby around. Kids are useless until the age of one.
Get them walking and saying a few words before you expect me to notice them.

Women love the tiny, sleepy, squeaky and pathetically dependent newborn phase. In general, pathetically dependent is a female's crack cocaine. Men aren't nearly so fascinated by passive, needy, tightly-bundled, sluggish cuteness. We'll tolerate it with a warning: This free ride has a time limit (Chores start at age 2. Lawn mowing starts at age 4.)

The most interesting thing about this new baby is found in the front of his diapers. That's right, one wife and four daughters later, my bachelor pad was lonesome for another y-chromosome. My ulterior motive is future guy time: Just me, the unwashed dog, the adopted male and a sign on the door, "Toilet seat up; beware."

Another advantage to this kind of child acquisition is keeping siblings together. If he remains with us, he remains with his two biological sisters. I'm sure alternative family situations like foster-adoption can be disorienting. Having something to hold on to may offer some extra peace of mind. But, this advantage has limits. For example, we cannot take any more of their siblings or any other babies. We're full. We may consider having another child of our own in a decade or two.

These advantages are not good reasons, just perks. The real reason is that Christa and I had agreed we were ready to grow the family again. I know that may sound crazier than accepting a baby who happened to be available. We certainly didn't expect a child to come so quickly. These things usually have a 9-month buffer.

Why were we willing to increase our already absurd family size at all? Well, what's one more? After two children it's a blur anyway. Christa often asks me if I can remember all our children's birthdays. I don't tell her that I don't even know most of their names. When Christa told me social services called and offered us a baby, my first response was, "Sure. How many do we have now?"

To be clear, we are not baby crazy. We are not snatching unattended children from grocery store shopping carts. We are employing multiple, fault-tolerant and redundant forms of birth control, despite the extreme rarity of Mommy-Daddy time.

If life is valuable, if people are valuable, then we are just investing in the only currency that does not go back in the box at the end of the game. And that’s why it’s worth it to me.

Stewartship And Foster Parenting

2009-11-20T12:05:00.002-07:00

When my husband and I were going through the adoption process we experienced some very emotional times. I remember one day specifically, when it looked like the bio-parents had a fighting chance of getting Ada and Tirza back. Ada had been a part of our family for nine months and Tirza for two months (we got her the day after she was born). I just couldn't imagine them suddenly not being a part of our lives.
How could I lose these children? Or even harder, how could I love them the way that God intended and then give them back? I could not love these girls -- pour myself into it -- if I thought about the fact that they were not yet my daughters.
It was during this adoption roller coaster that God really taught me about stewardship. In one arm I held Tirza, who was given to me by social services. I was a foster parent assigned to care for her until they decided her permanent placement. In my other arm I held Zella, born to me only eleven days before Tirza was born to someone else. She was mine. No one could take her from me; I was her permanent placement.
But wait... was I? Was she not also entrusted to me for safe-keeping by someone with much more authority than social services? And isn't it God's decision when our time has come to go Home? Suddenly I realized that there was no real difference. Both of these lives (in fact, all four of my children) were gifts. All I could do was be thankful for the time that I was given and give it my best as I fostered all my girls.
This evening we received a phone call asking for prayer. Our pregnant friend had stopped feeling her twins move. Tomorrow, she will be induced at 27 weeks and deliver her first children. I cannot begin to wrap my mind around the pain that my friend and her husband must be going through - delivering her twins whom she will never see grow up or even breathe their first breaths. I've shed many tears tonight, perhaps more than I have in a long time (ever since our adoption finalized).
I went into my girls' room and said a prayer. I never want to take it for granted; I never want to forget that they are gifts. Sooner or later our children leave. Sooner: they may assert independence, shy from our kisses, go to school all day or vanish in some tragedy. Later: they may grow up, get married, start their own families and move far away. So they are on loan, not ours after all. If and when He reclaims His children, I hope to hear "Well done good and faithful servant" and find the comfort that can only come from God.
Please pray for Sarah and Chris as they grieve the loss of their twin girls. Please pray for every mom in our group who has suffered from a miscarriage. Please pray for every woman who is struggling with infertility. Pray for every parent who has lost a child. And pray that each of us enjoys each moment, each child, and that we don't forget Who loves our kids even more than we do.

Men Are From Mars

2009-11-20T12:01:00.001-07:00

Six months ago, I resigned a stable job to risk working from home on some business opportunities. For five years I had worked with people who hated their jobs yet did nothing to change their situation. I was going to be different. I was going to make my first million before I was 30. What follows is a cautionary tale; feel free to live vicariously through me before you try this at home.

Christa and I spent the first two months fighting over territory. She had the funny idea that the house was hers since I was never around much before. So I threw all her craft supplies away. She put a computer out the window. I threatened her Twilight books and she settled down.

We tried starting two businesses with limited success. Both businesses are now on hold. I also tried working as a salesman. Working from home with young children does not help you project professional confidence. "Hello, I'm calling today to see if you have ever considered the advantages of owning your very own... (Shh. Put that down. Don't give it to your sister. Well, try to stop the bleeding. Where's your mother?) Sir, I have to let you go right now but would you mind if I called back later?"

We have way too many kids but we love them and plan on having more someday. We resolved most of the stay-at-home conflict just in time for me to head back out into less domestic working contexts. Forget working from home during the preschool years. You get to the point where those cute babies you wanted to spend more time with become the pests that prevent you from providing for them.

Most important to us is being there for our girls. Before I resigned, I had spent more time in my office than with my family. I had no idea who they were and often went home to the wrong house on accident and spent hours there before noticing. We are grateful for these six months and the chance to be together for a change.

We wanted to teach our girls that "work" is not just when dad goes away for a long time and comes back late and cranky. We wanted them to see it -- to see work -- to see it as hard but worthwhile -- to see mom and dad working together and playing with them together. We wanted our girls to know how money works, how things get done, and how to get paid for serving people, helping people and improving people's lives. We wanted to show them that business can be a learning game, a manageable risk, even fun sometimes -- whether you fail or win or break even -- not a terrible mystery to fear.

Jobs come and go. So do careers. But serving people well can become a fulfilling and lifelong quest. (Agree? Disagree? Despise this psycho-babble?)

Be Still

2009-11-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

Rest. That is truly a word I know little about. As a mom, most of the time I am on the run. All it takes is a moment's break and the dishes have piled up, the laundry is stacked three hampers high and the kid's room looks like an atomic bomb hit. Sometimes, by a miracle of God, all four of my girls are napping at the same time. In those moments the first thing that comes to mind is "Great! a chance to get caught up on email or finish that project that I haven't had time to get around to."

Rest? It seems like the last thing on the priority list.

This past weekend, my husband and I talked for the first time in months -- not just instant messaging, texting or making small talk while doing the dishes -- but put everything down, sat on the couch, looked each other in the eyes and had a conversation. It was wonderful! No amount of flowers, sappy facebook messages or expensive dinners could replace the time that we had. It was so intimate. I don't want anyone to misunderstand -- we love each other and we do talk. But not nearly enough do we put everything aside and make that the number one priority.

I think that the same mistake applies to my relationship with God. I love Him and He is an important part of my life -- but how often is it top of my to-do list to spending restful time with Him? We can say a prayer at meals and bedtime, or go to church on Sundays but that isn't the same as a drop everything and curl up on the couch conversation. But I believe that's what God longs for. Don't we?

And when the "bewitching hour" hits and dinner needs to be made, kids are extra cranky and your energy is at an all-time low? Psalm 46 says God is our refuge and strength -- in the midst of trouble, mountains falling, waters roaring and the nations raging. And in verse 10 it says "Be still, and know that I am God." Maybe we can't stop what we're doing, or make the crazy stop -- but in our souls we can find rest in God in the busy moments.

When I take a few hours or even a few minutes and put my to-do list to the side and instead play with the kids, read a chapter in my bible or sit down on the couch with Brian, I enjoy life a little bit more. My girls misbehave less when they get attention, my body seems a little less tense so that when I get back to work I have the energy to get more done in less time. But most of all, it is in the quite moments that we are most in tune with God.

Join me this week in making an effort in being still. My heart's desire is to know that He is God.

Men Are From Mars

2009-11-12T10:38:00.000-07:00

In the good old days, loving parents corrected their children's behavior with immediate and thorough whoopings. The grateful children smiled up through their tears of learning and thanked their benevolent, strong and generous fathers for caring so much about their moral development.

But somehow, between now and those rose-colored days of who-knows-how-long ago, two ideas ruined this utopia of corrective corporal feedback. I don't know which happened first but (1) a few people started beating children dangerously and out of spite rather than love -- and (2) a few people started making rules against the brutal mistreatment of children.

Now you can hardly frown sideways at a mischievous child without one type of person clicking their tongue and complaining about what the new psychology fad has to say about "negative feedback." The other type shrugs and says, "Is that all, you wimp? I love my children enough to spank them like the Bible says to." Spanking is the last permissible physical punishment available to modern parents -- and even its legal status may come into question depending on the local interpretation of child abuse laws and the zeal of social services.

As fathers, it's easy to say we love our kids when they are sweet and quiet and prematurely brilliant. But when they fight and fuss and bite and mess and kick you during diaper changes or harm their younger siblings -- then, as men, the impulse is to devour the offending family member and hope for better conduct from the witnesses.

We may choose to love our offspring whether or not they provoke our rage. Then we must decide how to reinforce the good behavior and correct the bad. We want them to grow up healthy and confident rather than whiny and spoiled or timid and traumatized.

It's not easy and it's never free from controversy but we must man up to the challenge. The answer is probably somewhere between savage beatings and letting them walk all over you.

Gourmet Sweet Potato Classic

2009-11-12T10:35:00.001-07:00

INGREDIENTS:
5 sweet potatoes*
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 cup butter, softened
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans

DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Bake sweet potatoes 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until they begin to soften. Cool slightly, peel, and mash.
3. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, salt, 1/4 cup butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and heavy cream. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
4. In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup butter, flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Mix with a pastry blender or your fingers to the consistency of course meal. Sprinkle over the sweet potato mixture.
5. Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, until topping is crisp and lightly browned.

*to simplify you may substitute canned sweet potatoes and skip to Step 3 in Directions.

Ronald McDonald House Volunteer SIGN-UP

2009-10-24T11:34:00.006-06:00

We will be hosting ‘Game Night’ at the Ronald McDonald house each Monday of November. We will serve in groups of 6. One person will be responsible for bringing a dessert or snack for the residents & another responsible for deciding what game to play. You can bring a board game or organize any game to your liking. Please only sign up if you can make it. Also, please make a note if you are willing to help organize your group.

To sign-up please email willow.call@gmail.com with your name, phone number(s), email address and date available. If you are interested in organizing your group or providing the dessert, please include this information also.

November 2nd

Name

Jill Burke
Trisha Rethinger
Amanda Fashboug
Amy Feddor
Kelli Crandall
Willow Call

November 9th

Name

Renee Archuleta
Stacey Bentzlin
Stephanie Cohen
___________
____________
____________

November 16th

Name

Tasha Futch
Emanuela Haien
Michele Pryor
Shannon Merrit-Dessert
Lisa Shaprio
____________

November 23^rd

Name

Nicole Meado
Stephanie Hartman
Tara Lujan
Stacey Bentzlin
Dawn Hempel
____________

November 30th

Name

Lara Mahinen-maybe
Christy Davies
Tammy Smith
____________
____________
____________

Easy To Please, Hard To Satisfy

2009-10-16T21:09:00.000-06:00

by Christa Flannery

My "twins" recently began taking their first steps. I've done this before with the older girls - but as a parent of a new walker, the excitement is fresh. I spend countless hours sitting on the living room floor encouraging Zella and Tirza to walk back and forth between pieces of furniture and myself. As we do dances and yell "hoorays" after each attempt, I wonder if our neighbors can hear the ruckus and are wondering what crazy thing is happening in the Flannery house now.

1 John 3:1 says, "See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!"

While that is comforting, it is no easy inheritance. God is our Father and he loves us. But he expects a lot, too.

In Matthew 5:48 it says, "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Yikes! I know how to walk physically but I'm not quite through with the training wheels on Perfection. I think that my life is still like my daughters' teetering steps. I am reluctant to let go of coffee tables and other sturdy things I trust -- to risk the open floor, clumsy, off balance, then ricochet off obstacles into the hands of my Father. I would rather wait until perfection hits and then demonstrate for Him.

Still, he cheers me on. He applauds as I bite my tongue when tempted to gossip, as I make a meal for a friend even though I'm tired. No matter how insignificant the gain, he cheers. Even when I trip and fall (suppose I explode in frustration and impatience): In those moments my Father picks me up, dusts me off and says, "Let's try that again."

My favorite quote is by a Christian writer named George MacDonald. "God is easy to please, but hard to satisfy." While God the Father is delighted in every stumbling step we take, He loves us enough to keep us practicing. Would we be good parents if we were satisfied with toddling? Would God be a good God? We all desire for our children to grow into confident, sturdy and unstumbling strides.

Listen today for God's "Hooray!" He calls us his children and He has all the time in the world so let's keep practicing.

Men Are From Mars

2009-10-16T21:06:00.001-06:00

by Brian Flannery

I grew up the oldest of three boys. Boys are the best. I remember running in church when I was a kid and I loved it. All the church ladies told me not to run because it was the house of God. When my parents heard that, they took me aside and said, "nevermind them; find a place to run where they can't see you." It became a game.

After church the stuffy perfume ladies took up positions blocking all the exits to make sure the Sunday morning boredom went unbroken. But we found ways around them and around the boredom. There they stood like stern guardians of sacred somberness, slightly crouched in anticipation of tackling children half their size and one tenth their age. Then from the ventilation ducts came the quick, light thumping of free feet.

I was looking forward to that creative mischief in my own children. Sneaking around the house with the kids when mom would have a bad day. Exploring forests that aren't really there in the garage. Making fortresses out of couch cushions and launching rolled socks as snow balls. Inventing impossible technologies and disassembling household appliances.

Then the Good Lord blessed me with four girls.

It took an hour yesterday to convince my daughter to wear a pair of tennis shoes to play in the front yard. She kept turning her ankle in her high-heeled sandals. She is terribly fashion conscious, insists on wearing dresses every day and refuses pants. I gave her the choice: To bed with her precious heels or outside to play in the tennis shoes.

She cried in bed for a half hour, then came down to renegotiate: She would play outside if I let her pick the ballerina slippers. She cried in bed for another half hour. Then I held her down and forced tennis shoes over her curled toes and kicking feet. Just in time for her neighbor friends to go home for dinner and the sun to set.

Boys don't care what they wear as long as it's not pink. Boys don't have dolls or tea sets. Boys don't do crafts. They draw helicopters or spaceships. Boys have trucks and wooden swords and dangerous sharp things they find before the trash man arrives. All they want is to play with matches by the natural gas main or throw rocks at the neighbor dogs.

I played catch the other day for the first time since sixth grade. Another family invited us to a park that had a baseball diamond. They have two boys. At last! A chance to return to boyhood -- before you know it, we should be reenacting The Sandlot.

Instead, the other father and I ended up playing catch together. The kids were a lost cause. My daughter hit the tee-ball and ran towards first base... but ended up doing circle eights in the outfield.

The boys were more coordinated but unprepared to stop on any one base (which made me proud by proxy for heterosexuals everywhere). Instead of running with the bat like the girls, they threw it recklessly. That was cool.

Oh well. We will all be pros in no time. Everything takes practice. Even fashion and tea parties.

Fireworks

2009-10-01T21:02:00.001-06:00

My two older girls saw their first fireworks show last week. We weren't quite sure how Ada, my two year old, was going to respond to the new experience so I watched very closely as the show began.

At the first bang, her little heart began to race, her eyes became as big as saucers and she held tightly to my arms. While some other children needed to leave, she continued to watch with a little fear, but in undistracted wonder.

I imagine that Moses must have felt much the same way before God's presence at the burning bush (Exodus 3) or Noah when wild animals began showing up two by two. (Genesis 7). Can you even begin to imagine the mixture of wonder, awe and fear?

God is not just our buddy and loving father, He is also mighty, powerful, awesome and just. But let's face it, the thought of a God who sent plagues to Egypt, or who destroyed the whole world in a flood is a little scary. However, it is that same God who parted the Red Sea to set His people free from slavery and who architected an ark to preserve one faithful family and the creations of His hands. It is in this perfect mixture of beauty and fear, love and justice that we meet our God.

I think that sometimes, especially in America, it becomes easy to forgot who it is we serve. Try to approach God with the freshness of seeing fireworks for the first time: Excited, awe-struck, amazed, and impressed to humility in the presence of such power, wonder and fear!

I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonders.
He will judge the world in righteousness;
he will govern the peoples with justice.
The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed,
a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know your name will trust in you,
for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.
- Psalm 9:1, 8-10

Men Are From Mars

2009-10-01T21:00:00.001-06:00

by Brian Flannery

My wife left me yesterday. She says she's coming back today but we'll just see. We have four kids. Getting four kids fed and in bed is a nightmare.

Before she left she asked me if I could handle it. "Of course." Failure is not an option. But there's a difference between five star service and, oh, one star (half star?).

We survived the meal thanks to a neighbor woman who brought over her kids and a pizza. We even survived that twilight zone between dinner and bed time. It's too early to put them straight to bed, so I'm told. If you can't put them in their cribs yet, next best thing is to exhaust them. After letting them climb all over our yard and play set, we let them run around the neighbor's.

Throw them in the bath to wash off the sand. Nothing's better for the pipes than some playground sand. Diaper them up and they're almost ready for bed.

Mommy left a stack of pajamas. Who needs pajamas? I learned recently that these things are not one size fits all.

I finally send them to bed; each outfit almost fits its wearer. Now I'm exhausted and they're not happy either. Perfect: crying is great. The adrenalin released in a typical crying fit is mild. After Dad has tried to push you into three or four outfits, the crying fit is fierce. A deliciously quiet adrenalin crash follows a few minutes of sincere wailing.

Father secret #1: Cry them to sleep. Work them into a sad frenzy then shut the door, turn the TV up loud and wear ear plugs if you have to.

Now all I have to worry about is breakfast. Or midnight fits.

It Doesn't Have To Be Rocket Science

2009-10-01T20:53:00.002-06:00

With the weather changing, I recently found myself cleaning out the closets and preparing for the next season. Here are a few of my clothing and closet tips.

1. When you're packing up the previous season's clothes, box and label according to size, gender and season (just warm vs. cold, not all four seasons). This makes finding and unpacking easier when it's time for a younger sibling to wear a certain size and season.

2. When unpacking the current season’s clothes, I try to put it away according to outfits. This makes more noticeable when clothes aren’t getting worn or don't match anything else. This can also assist with giving little ones the freedom of picking their own clothes (or rather, outfit) while keeping control of making sure they match.

3. In our house we have "shoe boxes” with names on them. In this medium size box, each child stores all of their shoes. I love being able to say "put your shoes in your box" or "go get a pair of shoes from your box" and it cuts down on the front door clutter.

4. Keep separate bins or tupperware containers for socks, underwear, tights, etc.. It makes putting away and finding items easier. PJs get thrown loosely into a drawer. Why do they need to be wrinkle free?

5. Toss mismatched hangers: Their irregular shapes take up more space, and the wire ones that dry cleaners use are hard on your clothes.

These suggestions have helped my family a ton, however I am no pro. We are always looking for new ideas. Do you have a great clothes, laundry or season sorting tip?

Post your ideas by clicking "comment"!

Together

2009-09-17T22:18:00.001-06:00

This year's MOPS theme is "Together on Planet Mom." Don't get lost in the outer space metaphor. It doesn't matter if we're in the suburbs or on the moon: As moms we need each other. Whether it's an uncomfortable pregnancy, tiring nighttime feedings, the terrible toddler years or sending your sweetie to school, we all need a shoulder to cry on, someone to laugh with and an encouraging word.

Brian and I acquire children. Our second child joined the family in March 2008 through adoption. Six months later we got the twins: one by birth, one through adoption, 11 days apart in age. In over our heads, we never would have survived without the support of friends, family, each other and God. Numerous people helped us by bringing meals and diapers or babysitting our older girls ("older" was 2 years and 12 months old). Our lives have become a little more normal but the need for community will never end. We are so thankful not to face this journey alone.

Whether this is your first year at MOPS or your fifth, my prayer is that you too will find you are not alone. I hope that you make friends this year that will follow you for the course of your life. And when everyone else fails you, I pray that you experience the love that can only be found in our Father and friend, Jesus. Welcome to Planet Mom and MOPS!

Men Are From Mars Intro

2009-09-17T22:14:00.003-06:00

The "Men Are From Mars" column by Christa and Brian Flannery:

So, here we are “Together on Planet Mom”. Have you ever thought to yourself “where in the world (or out of it) is dad?” In light of the fact that this year’s MOPS theme focuses on community, and one of the most important communities we have is right at home, we thought we’d let the men share a little insight from their perspective.

Men Are From Mars: POPS says to MOPS

2009-09-17T22:13:00.006-06:00

Dear MOPS,

Sometimes it seems like we parent differently than you. We know this gets on your nerves but that's not why we do it. You would like it even less if we were exactly the same as you.

We have to be the strong, dangerous ones who jiggle the kids and wrestle them to tears. We're quick to apologize when the little guys get hurt but we're not sorry we play rough.

Believe it or not, we love these kids. That's why we do it. This is how we show them attention: directly by fighting with them and indirectly by working to provide for them. If we seem like we never have time for the kids or you, please understand we're trying to make sure you don't starve.

When we work late, we are loving the kids. When we toss them around the yard on Saturdays, we are loving the kids. When we come home and nap with everyone climbing on top of us, we are loving the kids.

We're not wimps and we're not raising wimps. We don't parent softly; we would disappoint them if we did. You can baby them. We'll make them strong. Help us with our job and we'll help you with yours.

Deal? (Truce?)
-The POPS

“Fathers are just as essential to healthy child development as mothers.” - Glenn T. Stanton

“Fatherhood turns out to be a complex and unique phenomenon with huge consequences for the emotional and intellectual growth of children.” - Psychology Today

It Doesn't Have To Be Rocket Science

2009-09-17T21:54:00.003-06:00

Want to spend time baking with your kids, but dread the mess? Here is a super simple cookie recipe that makes 2 - 3 dozen.

Ingredients:
1 box of your favorite flavor cake mix
1/2 cup flour
2/3 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
6 ounces chocolate chips

Directions:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350*
Step 2: Mix together all the ingredients, except the chocolate chips
Step 3: Stir in the chocolate chips
Step 4: Using a teaspoon, drop spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet, about two inches apart. Bake for 8 - 12 minutes.
Step 5: Remove them from the cookie sheet and allow to cool.
Step 6: Enjoy!

MOPS is Starting Soon!

2009-08-17T21:00:00.004-06:00

MOPS at Colorado Community Church in Aurora will be starting on Friday, September 18, at 9:30 a.m. Please plan to join us for breakfast, a great craft, and 2 hours of childcare.

We will begin pre-registration the weekend of September 1st after all the services at Colorado Community Church.

Please e-mail me (address below) if you would like to receive the registration forms in advance. Please complete a Moppets form for each child attending MOPS. Do not fill out a form for a child that will only be attending occasionally. You can send the forms to MOPS at CCC Aurora, 2220 S. Chambers Rd., Aurora, CO 80014 as you have them filled out, or wait until registration at church.

If your forms are received by September 14, you will be pre-registered. That means that on September 18 you and your kids will have pre-made nametags and can walk right into the meeting and childcare. Trust me, this is the way to go!

The dues for the year will remain the same as last year - $48 per semester + $23.95 for MOPS, International. If finances are an issue, please plan to speak with Ashley Dymond at the second or third meeting about one of our scholarships. We will not be collecting money at the first meeting so that the meeting can run as smoothly as possible.

If you have any questions about our group, please do not hesitate to contact me. I hope to see all of you soon!

Jackie Frohne, MOPS Coordinator - CCC Aurora

ajfrohne@hotmail.com

August 2009 Summer Fun Activity

2009-06-25T15:59:00.004-06:00

Monday, August 3, 2009

What: Coors Field Tour

When: arrive by 10:45 am

Where: Coors Field is at 20th and Blake Street in Downtown Denver. To get there take I-225 north to I-70. Take I-70 west to I-25 South. Take I-25 to 20th Street, EXIT 212C and go left/east. Take 20th Street to Market St, turn left/north and park on Market Street. Meet at Gate D (Homeplate) by 10:45.

OTHER: RSVP Please call or email Jill Burke by July 27th to reserve your spot. The tour costs $6 per adult and $4 per kid, ages 3 and up. You will pay at the time of the tour. You will get to see: dugout, visitors clubhouse, press level, club level, suite level and concourse. The tour is a walking tour and will last 70 minutes. We will have lunch outside the ball park on blankets after our tour. BRING: money, change for parking, blanket and lunch and sun protection; strollers are welcome.

Questions or RSVP:

Jill Burke

720-323-76718

jmeganburke@gamil.com

July 2009 Summer Fun Activity

2009-06-25T15:59:00.001-06:00

Friday, July 10, 2009

What: Southlands Fountains & Picnic

When: 10:00 am

Where: Southlands is located at E470 and Smoky Hill Road and the fountains are by the movie theater at the north end of Southlands. From CCC take Iliff east to Tower Road, go right/south. Take Tower Road to Smoky Hill Road and go left/east. You will see Southlands as you pass over E470. Turn left on Main Street. You will find plenty of parking behind the Mt. Fuji Sushi & Hibachi Restaurant or in the WalMart parking lot.

BRING: a lawn chair, swimsuits, towels, sun protection, picnic lunch and maybe a few bucks for the best cookies ever! Look for balloons to designate our group!

June 2009 Summer Fun Activity

2009-05-29T22:18:00.001-06:00

Friday, June 5, 2009

What: Cunningham Fire Department House #63 Tour

When: 10:00 am

Where: Southeast corner of Picadilly and Rivera. From CCC take Iliff east to Tower Road, go right/south. Take Tower Road to Chenango, go left/east. Take Chenango to Picadilly(4 way stop), go right/south. Eaglecrest Hight School and Thunderridge Middle school will be on your left. At Rivera Way go left and park on the street or in the parking lot.

Other: We will have a tour of the fire house, the fire truck and ambulance! As well as some great fire safety tips. RSVP Please call or email Jill Burke by May 27th to reserve your spot. After our tour we will go around the corner to the park to play and have a picnic.

End of the Year...

2009-04-25T04:53:00.005-06:00

It has been a wonderful year of MOPS at CCC-Aurora! Our last meeting is Friday, May 1st. No tables are assigned food this week - everyone please bring your favorite dish, snack or beverage to share. Come celebrate as we wrap up another fun year together.

Don't forget...

Friday, May 15th
MOPS Playdate At The Park!
Great Plains Park in Aurora

(Located between E-470 and Tower Rd. on Iliff (which turns into Jewell)

9:30 - 11:30

Bring a snack to share and look for the balloons to find our group!

Continue checking this blog page for summer event updates. We'd love to have you and your kids join us for summer events, even if you weren't a member of our MOPS group this year.