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Can You Have A Perfect Mother’s Day?

May 4, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

Stop Wishing for the Perfect Mothers Day

If you are starting to think about Mother’s Day for your Mom, or if you are a Mother anticipating the upcoming Mothers Day stop wishing for a perfect Mother’s Day.

Yes, I said it. Now that I look back on the past years I wish I hadn’t expected perfection.

Too many times as Moms we expect too much from ourselves, and if you’re like me you sometimes expect too much out of the day. I know I always wanted Mothers Day to be special.

Different somehow, maybe even magical. As if every problem will be solved, every worry will go away and I will experience an overabundance or love and appreciation of being a Mom.

Popular media and culture promote Mother’s day as a special day, just for Moms.

We are supposed to be pampered for the day, without anything to do, and be lavished with attention, gifts, and love.

If we don’t get it then the day is somehow a failure, or maybe we are failures as a Mother. Wrong.

I would like to say I’ve succeeded as a Mother, that I have the perfect family, the perfect kids, and I know the perfect thing to say at the perfect time. I don’t. I have yelled, I have said things I wish I could take back, and I am far from perfect. My kids aren’t perfect either, I’m sure they wish they could do things over again also.

So why do I expect Mother’s Day to be perfect? I shouldn’t, and neither should you.

How I Have a Perfect Mother’s Day

Recently I was going through my computer files and looking at the photos from May. As I look back, I saw examples of how much my kids do care and it made me remember the handmade cards, flowers, Mother’s necklace and the very thoughtful ways they decided to thank me and wish me a Happy Mothers Day.

My daughter gave me the silk flowers last year along with the book below. Not only did she carefully select the book 1,003 Great Things about Moms Book, but she went through the book and underlined specific phrases that were applicable to me, it made me laugh, because yes. I am the Mom who buys Chapstick at Christmas and yes, they are in every room, or so it seems.

My oldest son, during some tumultuous years in high school, gave me this Willow Tree Mother and Son figurine and it still brings a tear to my eye this many years later.

So what makes a perfect Mother’s day?

Do you, or should you measure your self-worth through your children? No.

As a Mother, we can only do our job the best way we know how, with the skills we have been given via our parents, or life lessons we have learned along the way.

My kids are adults now and two of the three are living on their own away from home. I have done my best to raise them, love them, and teach them how to make presents special and unique. It’s up to them now. I am proud of them, and if they don’t live up to MY expectations, that ok, because they shouldn’t. I love them unconditionally and I know they love me.

Flowers on Mothers Day

It’s the little things they do on Mother’s Day, flowers don’t just appear. Flowers takes thought and time.

The flowers above were given to me when my youngest son was a senior in high school and either he or his sister had to drive to the store and pick them up, get the card and candy that went along with them. Then they have to get up early to place them on the table before I wake up.

When my Mother was alive I lived 1500 miles away from her my adult life. As anyone will tell you, I am TERRIBLE at getting things in the mail. So when she got a Mother’s Day card early she was shocked and surprised.

But I always did send flowers, she loved flowers and teapots so I tried to get a teapot, or teacup flower arrangements, the more unique the better, and, I always called. She always took photos of her flowers and described them over the phone.

Nontraditional Mothers Day Gifts from my Kids

But Mothers Day is more than flowers, candy, etc.

You know your kids really connect with you when they give you gifts that meet a need and show your kids are actually paying attention to you during the year. The odd-looking Strutz cushions below were also a Mothers Day gift. Non-traditional, yes, but very thoughtful.

Ontel Strutz Cushioned Arch Supports, Green, 2 Count

My oldest knows I have plantar fasciitis and my feet hurt. He saw these and thought they may help my feet feel better.

He bought them to give to me on Mothers Day when he was home on his Marine Corps leave.

What if your kids don’t remember Mothers Day?

Have they failed you or have you failed them? No.

You should still celebrate Mother’s Day on your own, do something special for yourself, to make yourself happy.

You are responsible for your own happiness. Yes, it’s nice to get breakfast in bed, if that’s your thing. Or get taken out to dinner, if you want to fight the crowds that day. But it’s also a “moment” with you yours that may only last a few minutes that day.

Or you might spend your Mothers Day by yourself reflecting back on your time as a Mother. You can look through family photo albums, read a good book, taking a rest, and pamper yourself.

I do agree that you should NOT have to do chores (unless you REALLY want to), dishes, or laundry. Take a break and have the perfect Mother’s Day yourself. You deserve it.

Moms Pamper Yourself

Golden State Fruit 12 Mother’s Day Love Berries Chocolate Covered Strawberries ThisWear Mothers Day Gifts for Mom Best Mom Ever Wood Heart Keychain Key Tag Mom Gifts Stpower Mothers Jewelry Engraved Words Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet Perfect Gift for Mom (The Love Between a Mother and Daughter is Forever)♥ mothers day gifts ♥ KINREX Tea & Coffee Mug – Best Mom Ever – 12oz – Gifts for Mom, Women and Ladies Amazing Woman Mug And Coaster/Lid – Ceramic – Large 14 Ounce Coffee Or Tea Cup – Dusky Purple Viverano 100% Organic Cotton Spa Bath Robe Kimono, Super Soft Luxurious Lightweight Non-Toxic Eco-Friendly Hypoallergenic (L/XL, White)Sweese 2111 Porcelain Tea Mug with Infuser and Lid – You Are My Cup of Tea, 15 OZ, Mint Green Adagio Teas 10087 Porcelain Mug with Infuser, 12 oz, Plum

How are you planning on pampering yourself on Mothers Day?

National Day of Prayer

May 1, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

The first Thursday of May is designated as the National Day of Prayer and people from all over the country will gather at flag poles for “See you at the Pole” events to pray for our country, our government, and good leaders. At our local school district students will meet in front first thing in the morning to observe the National Day of Prayer. To pray in Jesus name to ask Him to come into our lives, give us peace, hope, unity and strength.

History of the National Day of Prayer

You might be surprised to learn that it was the United States government under President Truman that enacted the first official Day of Prayer.

The National Day of Prayer (36 U.S.C. § 119)^[1] is an annual day of observance held on the first Thursday of May, designated by the United States Congress, when people are asked “to turn to God in prayer and meditation”. Each year since its inception, the president has signed a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day.^[2] The modern law formalizing its annual observance was enacted in 1952; however, days of prayer have been called for since 1775, when the Continental Congress designated a time for prayer in forming a new nation.^[3]http://en.wikipedia.org

Prayer and religious freedom is why the United States was founded. People escaped from religious persecution and found a home in America where they could worship freely. Now, more than ever we need to remember this. The Christian faith is being attacked from all sides. The military is limiting outward signs of prayer and faith. However, at least in the Marine Corps, chaplains, faith and God are a cornerstone. A prayer is said by the chaplain during the graduation ceremony.

Marine Corp Champlain leading off the graduation — Marine Corp Chaplain, Captain Johnson, leading off the graduation with prayer

The National Day of Prayer has been challenged over the years by the Freedom of Religion Foundation, but they have lost several times. When such government entities dating back to 1775 and the Continental Congress reaches all the modern day governors from all fifty states, there is support that no many can put asunder.

Let’s continue to keep God, Christ, faith, and prayer in the United States, our country and out hearts.

Listen to “We Pray”, recorded for the National Day of Prayer

How will you recognize the National Day of Prayer? Will you attend a rally, have a small group. Or will you prayer privately, alone with your Father who knows and hears all things. Regardless of how you prayer, just pray, not just today, but every day. If you don’t know what to pray, or how to start, start with the Lords Prayer, which is the perfect prayer.

Links to the National Day of Prayer

National Day of Prayer to Encourage a United Voice

Thursday marks the 63rd annual National Day of Prayer. This year’s theme is “One Voice, United in Prayer.” An estimated 40,000 people nationwide will mark the day with special events, including many at local and national government buildings.

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National Day of Prayer 2014 – American Association of …

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Spring Has Sprung

April 26, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

Spring has sprung in Nebraska, and I am a happy camper!

After a long winter in Nebraska I am more than ready for Spring and it can’t come fast enough. My daffodils are blooming, the buds on the trees are opening and the sun is shining.

With the first blooming flowers of spring I start taking my camera with me everywhere. There is something about the sun and new life rising from the ground that inspires me.

Enjoy my flowers this year and Spring Quotes

Spring has sprung with the first daffodils of the year

Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s party!” ~Robin Williams

It’s spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you’ve got it, you want – oh, you don’t quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so! ~Mark Twain

Mark Twain had it right, I have SPRING FEVER!

Daffodil garden at Arbor Day Lodge in Nebraska City

Awake, thou wintry earth –
Fling off thy sadness!
Fair vernal flowers, laugh forth
Your ancient gladness!
~Thomas Blackburn, “An Easter Hymn”

Apple blossoms at Arbor Day Lodge in Nebraska City

I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet it in a garden. ~Ruth Stout

So true, I love the flower gardens in the spring and it’s to them that I flock when the warm spring breezes blow. Always with my camera of course.

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome. ~Anne Bradstreet

I guess the spring quote by Anne Bradstreet is true, if we didn’t have winter, and very cold winters, we would never appreciate spring. The same is the same with joy. If we never experience sadness we would relish and appreciate joy and happiness.

The naked earth is warm with Spring,
And with green grass and bursting trees
Leans to the sun’s kiss glorying,
And quivers in the sunny breeze.
~Julian Grenfell

So now that Spring has sprung, can summer be far behind? I am a sun worshipper, nothing makes me happier than sitting with my face to the sun on the first warm day of spring. I love the warmth, and can’t wait for an 80 degree day so I can sit on the deck and soak in the rays.

What do you like about spring? Do you have a favorite spring tradition?

God’s Blessings and Easter Miracle Stories

April 20, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

Easter Miracle Stories Can Happen

I believe in Gods’ blessings and the Easter miracle stories because I witnessed a personal Easter miracle.

Miracles from Heaven: A Little Girl and Her Amazing Story of Healing

Many of you hear of Easter miracles, stories testimonials and casually dismiss their validity. You may patiently listen, smile, and nod your head. But truly not believe.

I did the same. But no longer. My father was dying in a hospital. The doctors and nurses were saying any minute, any hour. But I witnessed my own miracle on Easter.

All we need to do is believe and have faith. It’s that simple. Christ died for us on Good Friday many years ago and through the miracle of his Resurrection showed how we can have everlasting life.

For by Grace you have been saved through faith and it is not your doing, but a Gift from God (Ephesians 2:8).

Easter has a special meaning for me and the traditional Easter hymns bring me back to certain times in my life when I have witnessed miracles.

There are true life miracle stories that happen every day. Stories that have no explanation that can only be attributed to the grace of God.

My Easter Miracle Story

In 1995 I received a call from my Mother on Good Friday. Dad was in the hospital and not expected to make it through the weekend.

I immediately flew 1500 miles to Connecticut and we started a 24-hour bedside vigil.

The years of emphysema and COPD had taken a toll, Dad was laying in the hospital bed, nonresponsive and hooked to machines that beeped his life story.

I had the overnight shift on Saturday night and spent the hours repeatedly putting his oxygen mask back on his face, as he kept pulling it down. The nurses came in and asked me what I wanted them to do if he stopped breathing.

They did not expect my Father to live through the night.

I just gave them a stern and outraged look and said, “He can hear you, we aren’t going to talk about it.” You see, my Father had not yet met his brand new granddaughter, who had just been born a few months earlier.

The next morning was Easter, and I left the hospital when I Mom arrived to attend Easter Service at my home church of Grace Episcopal in Broad Brook CT. Traditional Easter songs have always moved me in ways I can’t explain.

I sat in the back, in one of the Mother rocking chairs with my baby girl, and listened to the traditional Easter hymns in that small church. I prayed, I held my baby girl, rocked her, and wept. The He’s Risen hymn touched my heart and soul and I can’t explain the feeling I felt.

It was a warmth, a radiating “tingle” throughout my entire body that did not cease. I tried to sing, but could not because of the lump in my throat.

Pretty Flower Christian Happy Easter Card
by ChristianGiftIdea

I prayed for an Easter miracle.

After church, I went anxiously to the hospital. My Dad was sitting up and drinking coffee.

I have no explanation except as an example of the many Easter miracle stories that abound. Afterward, I learned he was on seven prayer lists that morning.

Thank you for that Easter miracle and those last few days with my Dad. Christ is Risen indeed, and Jesus gives life.

Add Church Name to Easter Button
by ChristianGiftIdea

Hymns to Enjoy this Happy Easter

To me, these hymns are Easter. They are my favorite traditional hymns and I look forward to singing Jesus Christ is Risen Today hymn during church every Easter morning. I do have to admit there is always a lump in my throat as I remember sitting in my hometown Episcopal church praying for my Father.

Jesus Christ is Risen Today Hymn

Traditional Easter songs cross over various denominations. The following Christian hymns and music are sung in churches of various denominations including Episcopal, Lutheran and Catholic churches.

Christ the Lord is Risen Today Hymn

My favorite traditional Easter hymn is “Christ the Lord is Risen Today.” It reminds me of not only my own Easter miracle story but God’s grace in my life every day.

He’s Risen, He’s Risen Hymn

Another favorite hymn in both the Lutheran and Episcopal church is the He’s Risen Hymn. It’s also one of mine. The majesty of the He’s Risen hymn played by an organ is magnificent and will send a chill through your soul.

Thank you for reading and listening. If you have a favorite Easter Hymn or Easter miracle stories please share them, below.

Remember Easter is not just one day, but all year round. Christ is Risen!

Have a Happy Easter and look for Easter miracle stories in your life, not just on Easter, but every day.

If you love the traditional Easter songs and are looking for Easter hymns and sheet music for the piano try the music books below.

Lorie Line – The Heritage Collection Volume 6 – Piano Solo Personality Heritage Collection 2 by Lorie Line (2000-09-29)Christ Is Risen! – 26 Easter Songs Celebrating the Resurrection A Month of Sundays: Easter and Lent (Sacred Performer Collections)

Easter Version of Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen

April 17, 2014 by info@3QuartersToday.com

New Easter Lyrics to Hallelujah – Kelly Mooney Version

I love Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”, my kids have sung it in choir and when I heard the following version by Kelley Mooney written with spiritual and liturgical lyrics I knew I wanted to post the song and video on my blog for the Easter season.

History of Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen wrote this song in 1984 and struggled with it for many years with it going through 80 drafts verses before settling on the final edit.

Considering the struggle to write and originally publish the song it has been covered and sung by more than 300 artists and sold more than 5 million copies (source Wikipedia). In 2013 it was sung at Fenway Park to honor the victims of the Boston Marathon Bombings before the Red Sox game.

Lyrics to Hallelujah- Kelly Mooney Easter Version

You may have the music to the original Hallelujah version, but if you would like to substitute the words here are the lyrics to the New Easter lyrics to Hallelujah by Kelly Mooney.

Celebrate Easter with the an Easter Halleluja Cohen version writen for Easter.

Lyrics to An Easter Hallelujah – Leonard Cohen Music

A crown of thorns placed on His head
He knew that He would soon be dead
He said did you forget me Father did you?
They nailed Him to a wooden cross
Soon all the world would feel the loss
Of Christ the King before His Hallelujah