this girl turned 6

May 20, 2015May 20, 2015 melodyanndayLeave a comment

My dear, sweet, spunky Mackenzie turned 6 last week. I was ecstatic and devastated all at once, for obvious mama-type reasons.

To explain just how delightfully fun and intelligent my little six year old is, I’d like to tell you this short story from our birthday weekend of celebrating.

In the pantry I keep lemon sandwich cookies that happen to be Michael’s favorites. To be clear: It is understood that they are Michael’s cookies.

One evening, while I was finishing up the supper dishes, I heard some rummaging around in the pantry. Nothing unusual, so I kept on with my chores.

A few moments later, more rustling. And again a bit later. I turned around to see my baby standing right next to me – with a mustache of crumbs encircling her smile. This exchange followed between us:

With great curiosity I said, “Whatcha eating, sweetie?”
Eyes sparkling, she replied,”lemon cookies.”
*grins ear to ear*
“How many did you eat?” I tried to ask without accusing.
“three”
“THREE? Oh wow. Did you ask Daddy if you could have three of his cookies?”
“Oh yes! I did.” she said confidently; then a bit quietly… “I whispered.”
“Oh….” *mama desperately trying not to giggle*
Thoughtful confession, “He probably didn’t hear me…”

As a Mother I’ve spent many hours hoping and praying that I won’t forget each stage with my children. And often, in my case trying to retain three sets of memories, I wonder if I have room in my brain for all the “Mackenzie” memories. I am grateful for all of the precious moments with each of my children, but especially the quirky, little, funny ones like this that I know I’ll never forget.

Happy sixth birthday to my sweet Mackenzie!

wrapping things up…

May 14, 2015 melodyanndayLeave a comment

Tonight the North Shore Children’s Chorus sang together for the final time this spring. We sang at the Morning Pointe Nursing Home in Hixson. The children did an amazing job this evening sharing God’s love with the residents.

On my way to the facility, I listened to an old Hezekiah Walker song that says, “Every Praise is to our God.” And it resonated so deeply in my heart – each praise, even these words spoken and sung by these young voices, are heard by our Heavenly Father. Not just the grown-ups words, but every word of praise He hears. And I was reminded one more time just how worth while it is to teach our children to praise Him!

When we finished singing, we went to a nearby park, ate a few ice cream sandwiches and popsicles and played. I loved watching my precious friends fellowship the way children do best. It really was a delightful evening that I won’t forget any time soon.

I have to say that I have loved working with these beautiful children. It is hard for me to finish up for the school year, because I will miss seeing their precious faces and experiencing all of their craziness each week, but I know we will be back to together when autumn comes.

A quick note to my choir families:

To all of the dedicated parents who brought their children to be with me and sing praises every Wednesday : thank you! I pray you will be blessed for your consistent efforts and sacrifice; I know it wasn’t “a breeze” to be there, on time, every week, all year long. And I pray also that your children will continue to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

And to my sweet sisters in Christ, Patti and Kris – I am blessed by your servants’ hearts and your faithfulness to encourage me and the children week in and out. I could not have survived Children’s Choir without you!

I’m full of joy today, remembering this calling He has given me to serve our children teaching about praising our Heavenly Father through the gift of music.

I look forward to being with some of my favorite kiddos again soon! We’ll all be ready to be kind, be polite, and try (your best.) Oh, and don’t forget: No shout singing!

See you in the fall!

with much love and gratefulness to you all,

Melody

friends and loved ones

my eggs were cold

May 6, 2015May 7, 2015 melodyanndayLeave a comment

This morning my son begged for scrambled eggs. I indulged him, because, well, I like eggs too. But, as I got his breakfast and everyone else’s ready – I found myself not sitting down to eat my own eggs. I’d warm mine in the microwave – and then, “Mom, I need some juice.” oh right… let me get that. Followed by, “Mom can I have some fruit, too?” oops, hit the reheat button again… and so on, and so on.

When I finally sat down with my eggs and coffee, my eggs were not warm – and they were a bit tough. Definitely not a beautiful culinary experience – but, that doesn’t bother me near like it used to… This is my life as I know it right now.

Motherhood is a balancing act. It is learning to walk the tightrope between teaching independence and serving. I struggle – I lose my balance -leaning far to the right, then far to the left – I fall off completely sometimes… Am I doing too much for them, too little? I mostly have no idea.

However, often I find myself leaning towards the self-centered side of motherhood – looking for my rights, searching to have my needs met, rather than serving my children in love. Yep – that’s how I roll. I find ways to rationalize or excuse myself from service. I’m sinful.

Where are my fresh, hot eggs?

Later this morning while I finished up the breakfast dishes, I thought about my lukewarm, chewy eggs.

And I realized what I need to remember right now, just a few days away from mother’s day. On a day when our culture wants me to believe I should be served, I should be pampered, I should be given gifts – I have to recall the truth: being a mother doesn’t deserve any of these things.

Okay, so I know that sounds harsh, but it is real.

As a follower of Christ, I’m called to be sacrificial, to love, to disciple, whether or not I’m a mother. And in reality, I’m only able fulfill these good works because of the way that Christ has loved me, because of His immense sacrifice. That love and sacrifice activates the same in me. If I am a successful mama to my sweet children, I deserve nothing. If I am successful, it is because of the goodness He has brought about in my life, enabling me to follow His example. Truthfully, He deserves the glory on Mother’s Day, if there’s any to be given on my count.

On this Mother’s Day, I will give thanks and celebrate the work that He continues in my life. May it be so, on every day, not just Mother’s Day!

One of my favorite passages from Ephesians 2, reminds me of His gracious work:

2 And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.

4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly placesin Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

a bit of history · friends and loved ones

now hear this

May 5, 2015 melodyanndayLeave a comment

There it was in my inbox : an email from my hubby with a list of the audiologists in the area who are in our healthcare network.

You see, I’ve been asking questions like these for some time now: “What’s that?” “What did you say?” “Pardon?” *raises eyebrows* “Can you repeat that?” And I do mean that I ask these questions many times a day, especially of my kids. And it isn’t because I’m not paying attention. No, I’m intent. But, I’ve thought for a while now that my hearing may be slipping away.

However, every time I’d mention it to Michael in the past, he’d brush the suggestion off and tell me not to be so concerned over it… until now.

This email on the screen was like a flashing neon sign. (which is a good thing, since I might not have heard a buzzer or alarm.)

Up until this point my family has been so patient, repeating two and three times what they’re trying to say to me. But, sending me this email was like confirmation: He agrees with me. He thinks I’m loosing my hearing, too. Or possibly he’s finally tired of repeating 5 million times a day.

I feel a bit like Beethoven and not in a glamorous, famous composer kind of way. I mean, I’m a musician – I can’t loose my hearing, can I? I guess this may be payback for all those hours in a tiny practice room…

At any rate, I’ve been praying in a bit of a desperate fashion that this will all be sorted out easily,- and it got me to thinking… Why am I not worried about hearing God’s voice? I mean, if my physical hearing is so important to me – what about my spiritual hearing?

Daily, I move through life – in silence, not hearing the things my Heavenly Father is saying to me…Oh how my heart would be changed, how my behavior would change, if I would listen more carefully for His gentle voice.

But, I heard him this morning. Kindly, patiently He began speaking all of the promises my forgetful heart needed to hear:

that He is for me. that He forgives me. that He is with me, and I don’t have to fear anything. that He has a plan. that He is in control. that His way is best. that He is still at work, and He’s not gonna give up on me. that He is my friend. that He is good, in all circumstances. that He loves me unconditionally. and that these promises are gifts – not one of them I can work hard enough to earn.

With these thoughts, I’m reminded to make two appointments. The first one with Him, recurring daily on my calendar, to take quiet moments and hear His voice. And the second one with a doctor on the list in Michael’s email – maybe I’ll only need one of those appointments!

Thank you, Heavenly Father for being faithful to your Word and to your Promises! And that You are willing to speak them loudly to me, when I don’t hear the first or second or hundredth time! amen.

friends and loved ones

life’s beautiful music

May 1, 2015May 2, 2015 melodyannday1 Comment

(Remembering our friend today, who left this world a year ago- I feel sure he has been making heavenly music ever since.)

A friend called last night and said to come on over. We’ll hit up a few tunes for posterity’s sake. And it’ll be fun. like old times. He can’t say it quite like that these days, but I feel sure that’s what he meant.

So, Michael and I said of course. But later, while I was trying to fall asleep, I found myself captivated by fear. That I wouldn’t play well. And that my poor playing, would indeed be trapped for all earthly time, captured on a record… I can’t forget my husband’s advice: Just soak it in. enjoy it. remember it.

There’s something that happens when you hit that certain”niche” with fellow musicians – it is unexplainable, and intangible, but, oh. so. real. It doesn’t happen often, but when it comes about, you can feel it in your soul, and you realize you don’t want to ever miss playing with those folks, if you can keep from it.

That’s how Michael and I feel about this fella who called for us to come play in the studio today.

We sang and played, our hearts soaring above the noise of it all. You could not pay me any amount of money to trade our time together this afternoon.

Life is short, no matter how long it turns out to be. The Heavenly Father has every day numbered for each of us . But, it doesn’t make it easier, the not knowing how many days that actually is. I do find great peace in this knowledge: The Giver of All Life has given me this earthly music, as just a foretaste, an appetizer of what is to come. Hard times come and go – but there is an eternity waiting – everlasting days without fear, only the most beautiful music we will ever know. And there we will play and sing to our hearts’ content, worshiping The One who has composed and orchestrated it all.

(originally posted on February 11, 2014)

a bit of history · friends and loved ones

41

April 25, 2015 melodyanndayLeave a comment

Last weekend I had the privilege of flying home to spend the weekend with my parents. It was a special time of honoring my folks and giving glory to God for their 41 years of ministry serving the body of Christ.

I couldn’t share in a speech how proud I am of them. Their faithfulness to God’s Word and their perseverance in His work is remarkable. But to explain the entirety of their service – and how their story has become a part of so many people’s lives – there just wasn’t enough time.

But, I was able to do one thing.

For all of my growing up our home was full of singing and music. And – last Sunday I got to sing back to my Dad songs that I remember Him singing from the time I was a little girl ’til the time I left home. From songs that were silly to songs that shared the Gospel or urged on the Faith- I sang them as a tribute to my Dad and Mom. And I made Dad sing one of our old favorites with me.

I won’t bore you with all the details – but, here are a few photos from the weekend with friends and family. It is a time I will always treasure, grateful I was able to be there.

a bit of history · friends and loved ones · in my kitchen

better late than never

April 17, 2015 melodyannday2 Comments

The truth is I’ve been avoiding writing this post. I’ve done everything I know to do instead of putting my thoughts here. Which, all things considered, is not that hard since this house keeps me terribly busy and our schedule keeps me moving, often too busy to blog, too busy to think.

But the time has come.

Tuesday afternoon I decided to get dinner prep rolling. Pork chops, mixed veggies and mashed sweet potatoes. The pork chops were marinating, the veggies were ready to be steamed and I pricked the sweet potatoes and popped them in the oven to bake.

Even as I did it, I knew. He wasn’t going to eat it.

The afternoon went on and things in my heart did not progress well. While the sweet potatoes were in the oven baking I felt myself become a touch irritated – I knew the heat was on. By the time I was pulling them out and slicing them open to cool, my frustration was simmering. Dinner was just about ready and I found myself mashing those sweet potatoes with so much vigor, my anger was at a full rolling boil.

Why am I bothering? No one likes what I make for dinner anyway! Pouting ensued here – before the food was even on the table.

Before I go any further, you need to know a little bit about the situation. Isaac – my sweet boy- he struggles with food textures. He has since he was little. Anything with a mushy or squishy texture was terribly hard for him to swallow. There was a time in our family history when Isaac would throw up during dinner at least twice a week.

Which brings us to the painful truth of why I was in avoidance mode about this blog post: Back then I was a terrible mom. I would get so frustrated and I would raise my voice at my little boy if he gagged during the meal. Because who wants to clean up puke at the supper table? (At least that was my excuse.)

We’ve moved on mostly from those kind of dinners – and Isaac has made huge strides towards eating so many new and different kinds of foods. But every once in a while he has a struggle – and sweet potatoes is one of those foods that he can’t negotiate yet.

As we sat at the table – he stared at the tiny little spoonful of mashed sweet potatoes on his plate. He knew it was gonna be hard to get down – and he begged me to not. But, I suggested he try – we have to keep attempting new foods. So he tried. And he gagged. And I yelled at him to stop it.

yep. that’s how it went down.

ugly, right?

I apologized to my sweet Isaac afterwords – many times over. and I hugged him and kissed him. and I told him we wouldn’t try any kind of mashed potatoes for a long time.

Later I cried when I talked to God about it because I desperately don’t want to have an angry heart. And though I can feel the Holy Spirit massaging my hard heart, every time He gives me the opportunity to respond without anger, I miss it!

I’ve thought about it over and over again since then – and this is the thing : this life of following Christ is about sanctification. My anger keeps me focused on myself, my rights, and how I’ve been insulted (even if we’re talking about my children refusing to eat my cooking). All of the rough edges of sin and darkness must be rubbed away. When I focus on my Savior, and glory in His righteousness and His presence – there is NO ROOM for that anger. He is my helper in those moments – if I will take a deep breath and hear Him.

The Good News from Hebrews 2: I love reading about The Savior – who calls Himself my brother, who knows and understands that I need His help!

10 For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. 11 For both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren, 12 saying: “I will declare Your name to My brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will sing praise to You.” 13 And again: “I will put My trust in Him.”And again: “Here am I and the children whom God has given Me.”

14 Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16 For indeed He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the seed of Abraham. 17 Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.

friends and loved ones · who knows?

women of wayside

April 15, 2015 melodyanndayLeave a comment

A few weeks back I had the privilege of being a part of “Wayside Women for a Day.” In a most lovely setting I led these very special ladies in worshiping our Creator.

These women had gathered for fellowship and spiritual nourishment. Intentionally, each one slowed their pace. And we took steps together – towards each other and towards the Savior.

We sang. We prayed. We ate. We heard thoughts from God’s Word. The more experienced women shared from their years of faith. The younger women gave encouragement with boldness and energy.

There is nothing so beautiful as learning to love one another, sharing lives together. These women are a gracious group – deeply caring for one another. They are a mirror of Christ’s love.

(Did I mention the food was really yummy? all day long!)

Thankfully, I played the piano and sang, my heart overflowing with God’s goodness that I was able to be a part of such a day – and that I am privileged to be connected to this little part of the Body of Christ.

When I think of my day with the ladies from Wayside, I’m reminded of these verses from Ephesians 3:

14 For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— 19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

a bit of history · friends and loved ones · in my kitchen

Aunt Belva’s pound cake

April 2, 2015 melodyanndayLeave a comment

Aunt Belva’s home was situated on one of the main streets of Danville, Illinois. Next door was her antique shop. It seems like we dropped by for a visit just yesterday. Truly, its been more than 30 years ago.

In my mind’s eye I see the little heart shaped pink soap perched on a footed dish in her front bathroom- it is funny what I remember from my childhood. But mostly I remember her cozy little kitchen where she prepared the best food. What did she make, you’re wondering? Anything your little heart desired, that’s what. She was not held hostage by the ideals of my mother who said, “You’ll eat what I make.” Oh no. Aunt Belva was always welcoming and made whatever you requested, if she had it on hand.

We were often the recipients of her hospitality. It was warm and refreshing – just like springtime.

Near easter, I’m reminded of her because of the pound cake she was known for – and pound cake with fresh strawberries is the perfect Easter treat. (at least in my mind anyway) But, also because of the life she lived. A life of hospitality is a life that is Christ-like: it is warm and welcoming, offering refreshment, joyful and giving. Being hospitable to those around us is the embodiment of Christ’s love.

Even a fresh pound cake, given to one in need, can be a reminder of His goodness and lovingkindness.

So, for this Easter weekend – I thought I’d share this precious family recipe – that truly is so much more than directions for a yummy cake. It is a reminder, for me, to share Christ’s love thru my time in the kitchen. And even tho Aunt Belva passed away several years ago, her gift for hospitality lives on.

Aunt Belva’s Pound Cake

ingredients:
3 sticks of butter
8 oz cream cheese
6 eggs
3 cups of cake flour, sifted 2 x’s
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla

instructions:

Preheat oven to 325. Beat butter, cream cheese until light & fluffy. Add sugar slowly and continue to beat until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and add in vanilla. Sift dry ingredients together then gradually mix into butter mixture. Pour batter into greased and floured bundt pan. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. test doneness with a toothpick. cool – then serve with whipped cream and strawberries.

(FYI: this batter had so much volume, I took a few spoonfuls out of the pan before baking so that it wouldn’t overflow.)

Enjoy this cake with loved ones this weekend and Happy Easter!

a bit of history · friends and loved ones · who knows?

happy birthday Lily!

March 31, 2015March 31, 2015 melodyannday3 Comments

Lily, as a puppy, before we brought her home.

It is true that I haven’t always liked dogs. In fact I disliked them. a lot. And I was afraid of them even more.

When I was a toddler I had an unhappy experience with my Pappaw’s hunting dog, Sissy. From that moment on, I avoided dogs – and I do mean ALL dogs. Just the sound of a dog’s bark would set me on edge. Even as an adult, if one crossed my path, it was all I could do to not high-tail it in the opposite direction. Fear reigned in my heart.

I had no idea what I was missing. I did not know what it was like to be loved and adored unconditionally by a puppy. I did not understand this connection so many people claimed to have with their beloved animals.

Until last year.

Last spring Michael began talking about how our family needed a dog. I thought he was crazy. But he researched breeds and breeders and came up with a solution : the perfect solution – our Havanese puppy, Lily, who we found last March, newly born to our friend down in south Georgia.

When it was time to pick her up, the plan was to drive down and bring her home. She would sit on my lap for the drive. This was Michael’s plan. Again, I was not sure he was thinking clearly – he was keenly aware of my struggles.

But, do you know? I picked up our sweet girl – and she just snuggled right into my lap as though she’d always belonged there. And we made the four hour journey home. She nestled her little nose right into the crook of my arm and fell asleep. And I haven’t been nervous or afraid since. (Well, I do still give the stink-eye to the pit bulls across the street, but I think that is warranted.)

I can’t describe to you just how much we love our Lily. She has been such a precious addition to our family. But I am also grateful for Lily. This little puppy, a tiny piece of God’s creation has been used to undo my fears. It has been such a unique time in my life to see just how much God, my heavenly Father, longs to redeem what is wrong and make it right.

Thank you Heavenly Father for the gift of Lily to our family.

And Happy first Birthday, Lily! We love you!