Letting go of expectations

Babies are always changing.  Sometimes it can be hard keeping up with all those changes, particularly when it can throw the rhythm of the day off.  I'm not much for schedules, being more of a fly by the seat of my pants (read: somewhat disorganized) kind of a gal.  But I definitely, and so does Anika, thrive on a certain rhythm to our day at the very least.  When teething, separation anxiety, and just general unexplained baby behavior leaves me feeling a bit lot frazzled, it's nice to get such a clear reminder of God's continued presence and guidance throughout my day.  How quickly I forget His promises!  I found today's devotional particularly fitting for the way this week has gone for me.  From the daily devotional, Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young:

I am the Risen One who shines upon you always.  You worship a living Deity, not some idolatrous, man-made image.  Your relationship with Me is meant to be vibrant and challenging, as I invade more and more areas of your life.  Do not fear change, for I am making you a new creation, with old thing passing away and new things continually on the horizon.  When you cling to old ways and sameness, you resist My work within you.  I want you to embrace all that I am doing in your life, finding your security in Me alone.  

It is easy to make an idol of routine, finding security within the boundaries you build around your life.  Although each day contains twenty-four hours, every single one presents a unique set of circumstances.  Don't try to force-fit today into yesterday's mold.  Instead, ask Me to open you eyes, so you can find all I have prepared for you in this precious day of Life. 

Yep. I needed to read that. Perhaps others do too.

A gift in the night

                                                     photo by: Sean MacEntee


Because of God's great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is your faithfullness.                                              - Lamentations 3:22-23

Even at 1 in the morning.  Last night (or rather, this morning) Anika had some sort of freak diaper leak, leaving her pajamas and sheets soaked.  I sleepily went through the motions of changing the wet sleep paraphernalia, and as I did, I glanced over at Anika, who was studying me with the biggest smile I ever saw so early in the morning.  All sense of sleeplessness melted away, and I grabbed hold of the precious moment I had to share with this young soul in the wee hours of the night.  I vaguely remember babbling something about how accidents happen sometimes, and that it was ok, and she just continued to look at me with such a serene look on her face.  That peaceful moment in the midst of a sleepless night was like a tall, cool glass of water for this weary mama's soul.

     I've recently begun to read Ann Voskamp's book, One Thousand Gifts, and it's already changing my outlook on the mundane details of my life, as I, too, put pen to paper and attempt to etch out one thousand gifts in my own life.  I'm excited to see where this journey will lead me....won't you join me?

Fried Bananas

I'm a bit of a haphazard blogger.  This post came about while preparing breakfast when I thought to myself, 'I should blog about this' So without further ado, here is what I had for breakfast:

I know, super appetizing, right?

Ok, on to the actual reason for this post.  Those little banana looking things on top of my oatmeal? Fried bananas. Yep. A little piece of heaven right there.  Well....if you're the health nut type.  I mean, for being pretty darn healthy, these babies are pretty darn good.  Here's how to replicate the experience in your own home. 

You'll Need:

A frying pan (duh)

About a tablespoon or so of coconut oil 

One banana, cut up

Here's How:

Heat up the frying pan. Scoop  Scrape out a spoonful of coconut oil and melt in pan. (not exactly rocket science, folks)

Cut up bananas and place in pan:

Fry for a few minutes on both sides. They will get a little browned, and mushy. Yummm.

Now, you can eat them as is, which is pretty tasty.  Or, you can top your oatmeal with them with a bit of cream or milk and a smidge of honey. Or....you could top them with freshly whipped cream for a crustless banana cream pie.  It's all good.  And that coconut oil? Totally good for you.  That's a whole 'nother post though!

This post is part of Real Food Wednesdays