Brothers and Sisters = best friends

I am one of those kind of mothers that loves an idea and runs with it (well, sometimes I don't because it is messing up my math and lanuguage arts schedule!). Admittedly, I cringe at times because I know it means set up, clean up, clean up and clean up. Why does that hinder me so much! I have capable children however, they love the doing while I tend to do the cleaning. Not always, but enough that I may second guess the really cool creative mess coming!
BUT...today was different. I know that our TAG group at church (Truch Application Group or small group) has been praying for the brothers of the house for strengthened relations in other words getting along (a very specific request lately!). I also know of many prayer warriors in my family that are doing the same my parents and sisters!!!.Also many friends too.
 I see answers to prayer!
 These are the kind of blogs I love to write because of the truth of how God hears us and loves us, even in what seem like the small stuff! It all started off with an idea I had based on a conversation with my oldest about serving one another even when we don't feel like it. So, Monday morning we served him breakfast in bed. The look in his face was priceless. What a great moment! Immediately he set out to make sure the others had the same service happen to them. So. he has requested that they all sleep in and we will serve them some breaky tomorrow am! I know it is a little decadent, but this is a treat remember! It really worked. Serving blesses all parties involved in countless ways. This idea kept on rolling in neat ways. I had suggested that Chris take some of the wood in our shed that a contractor had given us for our firewood, perfect for building projects, and he took off running! Hammer and nails in hand and off he went. As the first born in the home his influence is strong and powerful in positive and not so positve ways at times. However, he had a secret mission and as you will see in the pictures below he finished a project for Jack and as a result the others made items as well. Jack made one for Duncan, so did Samantha. Jack made one also for Chris. Sara has chosen to cut paper and perhaps a rice krispie box to get in on the action!
I have to say this may seem odd, but all of the above is a result of answered prayer. The fact that serving is part of tthe fruit in our walk wtih Christ does not always come in the most regular form! The kids demonstrated unique and creative ways of serving the family and therefore blessing the family.

I can tell you we had some rough moments today as well. But the good far outweigh the bad. In those moments I have to cling to the truth that I am where I am supposed to be, doing what I am called to do and living the life Christ has for me through His endless strength!

Quick book review to add to this entry: 'Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends' By the Mally children.

We have been reading this together through our days here and there and sometimes rereading! Wow, what a fantastic book to guide families through the daily relationships that occur. Brothers and sisters are unique and we all know that can pose some serious issues. If the issues are left unadressed ugly  roots are firmly planted and are very difficult to pull out. We are tackling the issue of humility lately and learned more about Abigail in 1 Samuel 25. She was a godly woman married to a wicked man that had offended a king.  She went to the king that was offended and fell on her face and said she would take the blame. Her humility saved the household.
I see the story applied to all homes! Humility saves situations over and over again. Great reminder for our family.
We continue to read from the book and take the funny stories, biblical principles and attempt to apply them to our lives here in the hills. The Mally children (all older than I make them sound!) really make this book a gift to anyone who opens it. As we go about our days here, we are continuing to learn to forgive, love and serve in ways that astound me. Do we fail? Yes, quite miserably I might add. Thank God for His grace that we apply daily.
This book offers great advice and biblical hope that can conquer our ugly roots!!

staring a new project means dusting off the machine. Trust me, look close you will see the particles!!

The boys working side by side on their own creations.

Chris shows his craftmanship for Jack

Beginning of apron one

Chris opening the gift from Jack

Beginnin stages

Secret project for Dad from Jack

Here it is, just for DAD

Girls working on wrapping for Daddio

Seems like a busy day! It was and a lot of good fruit came out of it!!