A Force
My Father was a force…..A beautiful, mysterious, yet humble force….one I will so miss.
Definition of Force: Strength or energy as an attribute of physical action or movement.
Definition of my F A T H E R
F-Fearless
A-Accomplished
T-Teacher
H-Hard-working
E-Empowering
R-Resilient
My Father,
F-Fearless. Not afraid to do anything. Not afraid to be anything. Not afraid to take an idea, start a company, feed his family, and provide a life for us that was so rich and full of love.
A-Accomplished. Married the woman of his dreams and stayed married to her for over 50 plus years. Four beautiful kids all grown, all successful, all happy. Thirteen beautiful grandkids, and five amazing great-grandkids.
T-Teacher. It is the law of radiation and attraction my dear. You get what you give in life. Best lesson he ever taught me!
Empowering-You can be or do whatever you want…it is your choice.
Resilient-He withstood any difficulty thrown his way and he did it humbly and with pride and always recovered from whatever difficult situation was present….and recovered with class. My father was one classy guy!
When I think of my father I think of a Fearless, Accomplished, Teacher, who was Hard-working, Empowering, and Resilient. That was Bob Foley! The man who always provided a safe a place for us. A place where we could learn and grow. An environment where we could be or do anything we wanted. A place where we felt loved.We always felt at home…. A home where we were safe to be anyone we wanted to be and do anything we wanted to do without judgement, maybe pushback, but no judgement.
My father was my first knight and shining armor. He was the man I looked up to and admired up until he took his last breath March 13, 2021. A day that will forever change me. The day my knight left this earth.
A day I never believed would come and a day I never saw coming. He was doing so good! He was so strong! He had survived a serious car wreck where he brushed death’s door. He survived raising four kids, and not just any ole kids, we ALL have big personalities! He survived a heart attack, the death of his wife, a broken neck, covid, and honest to God I really thought he would survive more! Why? Because he was a force! A force who will be sorely missed on this earth. A force who left his mark and what a mark he has left.
Four beautiful children who are all alive and thriving. Thirteen grandchildren and five great grandchildren, a company or two, and so many beautiful memories and lessons.
My dad was my first love and my forever hero. I will miss him but I know his energy is still here. It is in my heart. It is all around…I just have to be open and aware to receiving it, feeling it, and by God sharing it! I will too! I will shine brighter because my dad taught me too….
XO,
Amy
It Is Good...Now Rest
DAY 1
Genesis 1
Literally, the first six days of creation ended with God saying, “And it was good.” EVERY DANG DAY and then He rested. Took a break! Did not think about it because it was good and He was pleased. On the sixth day He actually said after creating humans, “it was very good and He validated it completely.” (Genesis 1:31) I see a theme….It is good, now enjoy it, and relax. Something we are basically told not to do. The lie we are fed is, success is the amount of money in your bank, the size of your home, the car you drive, the trips you take when in all reality is that success? If you are always working and not taking time to enjoy the fruits of your labor what are you even doing? We get caught up in this idea if we are busy, if we are doing something, then we are successful. Yes God was a busy little bee those first six days, but every night He looked at the fruits of His labor and said, “It is good and rested.” If He had had an iPhone or a computer He would have put it away. He would have relaxed and enjoyed His time. Probably with the Son and the Holy Ghost too.
Reflect: In your desire to possess more and more, have the perfect home, or kids, do you fall into the trap of working, working, working -and never enjoy the fruit….enjoy the now, the home you have, the kids, your spouse, yourself?
Prayer: Ask God to work on your heart. Get to the bottom of why you feel the need to work so hard at whatever it is, your body image, your home life, your job, whatever it is, and ask God to help you learn to relax and enjoy His blessings, His presence, and those around you. Ask Him to help you enjoy the gift of today.
How to Walk it Out: Today decide that you will put the computer and the phone away and spend time with those in your presence. The phone will not be on the table at dinner with friends, or by your side wherever you are. I challenge you to “Lose” the phone for a period of time daily and silence the watch while you are at it. Can you do it?
A JOYRIDE THROUGH THE BIBLE
INTRO
Getting to know the Living Word
Have you ever wanted to understand or at least just feel comfortable picking up the bible? I know that is how I use to feel. Not sure if I did not feel worthy enough or smart enough but there was definitely an element of “not enough” for me when it came to the bible. As I have grown in my ministry I am finding I am not alone in the world of “not enough”.
I don’t want that for anyone and I especially don’t want that for you~The sister who is taking the time to learn and grow with me. I have decided to do something for you and I am definitely not “qualified” to do so, but I feel I am “called” to do so.
QUALIFIED VS CALLED
Qualified-officially recognized as being trained to perform a particular job….Well, seeing that I was raised in the Catholic Church in a small west Texas town, smack in the middle of protestant country…let’s just say I am far from qualified.
Called-Cry out in order to summon them or attract their attention….I can say I feel the Holy Spirit is crying out to me to share what I am learning. So am I qualified? No, but I do believe I am called.
What does this mean for you? First and foremost it means I DO NOT have a theological education by any means. I have church on Sundays, Sunday School, mission trips, Bible studies, quiet times, and literal moments where I felt the presence of something, (now I know that was the Holy Spirit) with me. In other words, I have my story, my journey, my ideas, and my thoughts. If that is ok with you, then keep reading, if not, I understand.
What will you gain? My true desire is that you will learn and truly embrace the love of our heavenly Father. A Father who is so compassionate and one of many chances….many! One who knows you inside and out because He created YOU!
The real question is, do you know Him? He wants that! He wants a relationship with you no matter how messy your life has been up until this moment and no matter how messy your life might become after this moment. No mess is too big for your Father to help you through. Will you get to know Him and let Him in? Will you let Him fill you with the gift of the Holy Spirit?
One thing I am 100 percent qualified to say….once you allow the Father to penetrate your life and fill you with His Spirit you will FOREVER be changed! Are you ready for that? If so put on your seatbelt and get ready for the ride of your life!
Day 1-Beginnings and the roadmap for our journey
Genesis, the definition literally means the origin or mode of formation of something. Every morning you and I open our eyes and we begin a Genesis; the beginning of a new day. Every morning the alarm goes off. We literally get a chance to form a beautiful gift. The gift of living our lives in love. A fresh start! Whether it be in a situation of everyday life, such as relationships at home, the office, the way we choose to spend our time, or issues of personal integrity, we get a chance to make a difference in this world. The world is desperate for love and light. What an opportunity!
As we begin our 365-day journey together always remember this; “Today is an opportunity to love, yesterday is gone, tomorrow may not happen, so today I choose truth over deception, faith over fear, peace over strife, forgiveness over bitterness, patience instead of forcing something to happen, I choose to hope in Jesus even when it seems impossible, and I choose love.”
I will ask you to read from the Bible daily, nothing too long. Then, ask you to reflect on what we read. I will offer you a prayer and a prompt on how you will apply it. Each day will be tied to a chapter in the Bible or a verse. It is highly encouraging to read that from your bible, but not necessary. I want this time for you to come to know God on your terms. Take your time. My prayer is at the end of our 365 days you will be changed, you will be moved, and you will be full of the fruits of the spirit. Are you ready for it? I know I am!
Read:
Reflect:
Prayer:
How you will walk it out:
Are you ready? I think you are….if you have made this far that tells me your decision to join me on this journey is a yes, you have your map above, and you have me, and God as your compass. The rest is up to you to take each day as it comes. Read, sit in it, pray in it, and decide how you will walk out this beautiful journey!
May your journey be eye-opening! May angels fly with you wherever you roam and guide you back safely to family and home!
XO,
Amy
Mother's Day is coming...How do you feel about that?
Mother’s day is coming…How do you feel about that?
I am having ALL kinds of emotions.
On the one hand, my mom is gone which makes it hard, but honestly, each mother’s day gets a little easier. You know the old adage, “time heals". It really does, although I freaking hate that saying. With that being said, I have so many friends that this is their “first” and my heart hurts for them. I remember like it was yesterday. The first is the worse!
I think I feel more pain for my friend’s hearts this year than my own. I remember that pain. It’s like an open wound that is bleeding and you pour hydrogen peroxide all over it and it just foams with pain. I know you know what I am talking about and to my friends that are going through this pain I say write your mom a letter. I know it sounds crazy, but I promise you this, it works! It truly works. Get yourself a beautiful candle, a cup of hot tea, find a quiet spot and just write your heart out to your mama. Everything you wish you said, everything you know she knows, and anything else. Tell her how things are going, just like she is here. It sounds crazy but there is something so healing about journaling.
Another emotion has sprung up this year….
This year I find my heart is breaking for the woman who has miscarried or lost a child. I had the privilege of speaking this past week to the women of Twelve 12 Ministries. While this was such an honor it brought back so many feelings. Feelings from when we lost our angel baby.
I remember thinking will anyone remember I am a mom of three. At the time we lost our baby I only had Will and JP and I wanted people to remember I had an angel baby and I was a mom of three. Nothing has changed in those emotions except that now I am a mom of four and I can’t help but think of the beautiful women out there that have no babies on this earth, but they have angel babies and I am sure they are thinking the same thing. Or the woman like me who is blessed with children here on earth, but she too has an angel baby. I know what they are thinking and feeling…. Will anyone remember and will anyone see me as a mother? My answer to them is YES! I DO! I see you and you are a beautiful mom! You are not invisible.
I see you and I want to celebrate with you! I want you to celebrate you. No matter if your child was in your womb 6 days, 6 weeks, 16 weeks, born but not living, or born but left us too soon…No matter how long, they still lived and you still loved them, YOU ARE STILL A MOTHER, and Mother’s Day is for you too!
So, how are you going to celebrate? You can celebrate even if those around do or not.
I have an idea or two. First, write your sweet baby a letter. Just like I told my friends above writing is the key to opening up your heart and soul. Writing is therapeutic and can take you to places of freedom no one else can. Trust me on this. So write your beautiful baby a letter. Tell them how much you love them and let them know you are ok knowing they are watching over you. After writing your letter go outside, move your body, connect with nature, and look for your sweet baby in the sun, the flowers, and the trees. Maybe plant a tree or flowers in honor of your child. If creativity lights your soul on fire, get creative. Paint something, make something, choreograph a dance in your babies memory. Whatever creative outlet you choose, do it in honor of your baby. Getting creative can be so therapeutic.
Wherever your pain is on this mom’s day, pull out those photos and remember. Where ever those keepsakes or photos are, pull them out, look at them slowly and remember. Maybe start a keepsake box as a beautiful way to remember and celebrate those you are missing.
Buy flowers! Flowers always make a room brighter.
Visit wherever you use to go with your mom and remember those precious moments….or visit a place you wish you could have taken your child go….sometimes leaning into the grief is more healing than avoiding it.
And finally, if you know someone going through the same pain….text them, call them, or write them. You might know how they are hurting or feel forgotten. Tell her, you love her…you see her….listen to her….you both will heal.
But hear me when I say this…There is no guilt or shame if you do NONE of these things…I want you to feel the freedom to do one, none, or all of these things. Maybe for you, it is best to stay in those jammies all day and under the covers. If that is the case, I get you and I see you. You are loved and so is your mom and or your child. You do whatever is best for you on mother’s day. You don’t need anyone else’s permission to celebrate mom’s day their way. You do it your way. Whatever your pain is. Don’t wait for someone to do something for you. You choose how to celebrate this first mom’s day without mom or baby.
Just know you are not forgotten. I see you and I am here for you.
XO,
Amy
PS…if you are looking for a community that can build you up and support you during your grief journey, join me and my amazing friends for free in my Facebook Group SOUL GOALS
19 Years Ago Today
Dear Will,
Holy Cow! 19 years ago today I became a mom. Not just any mom….your mom! What a gift you are, even to this day, to your father and me. 19 years ago today you came into this world. 19 years ago today you breathed your first breath, made your first sound, and 19 years ago today I held you in my arms and called you son.
This is the first year you are not here with me on your birthday. Will, I have some questions for you….and this is a test…a test to see if you even read this and a test for me……(Ok that just made me laugh! But I need you to answer these questions.)
Have I been a good mom?
Do I make you proud?
Do you believe in me?
Will you have been an incredible son! You ARE a leader! You never disappoint….yes, we have had challenges and yes, I have questioned some of your decisions, or behaviors, but I know who you are at your core. At your core, you are a good person. You have a heart for Christ. You have values. You have a hard work ethic. You are a leader and you are my firstborn. Do you make me proud? Oh, my stars….over the moon proud! Goo goo proud! Will Berry, I am so proud that you are who you are and the thing I am most proud about it is that YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE! That, my son, is half the battle! Never lose that! Do I believe in you? Will Berry, I believe in YOU! I believe you can and will be whatever you choose! I know you will choose wisely! I know it! But one thing I want to say is….make your choice with your heart….not with what you think will make you the most money! YOU BE YOU AND DO YOU! Go for what you are passionate about Will and the rest will fall into place. LOOK UP to God….ask Him for guidance. He created you and He has a purpose for you. Follow His lead my son and you will be blessed abundantly! I promise you that!
Happy Birthday, My Boy!
I love YOU so!
LYMSIL!
Mom
How A Christmas Card began the journey of The GOOD Life
It’s the most wonderful time of the year….so they say….but for some it is the loneliest time of the year. The holidays can be a big ball of yuck for a lot of people. It might be that it is their first holiday without a loved one, their last holiday with a loved one, or it could be simply self induced pressure to be “WHATEVER” they think they are suppose to be (the best mom, the best elf on the shelf creative, or the best entertainer)…and the list goes on. Point is the holidays can be a real suck for a lot of people.
I fall into the camp of I love the holidays, but, I use to get so stressed out about the dang family christmas Card. That dang card, every year, darn near ruined the holidays for me, that is until I would get it into the mail. It was then and only then I could enjoy the magic.
Then my mom got sick and was put in the hospital on December 9, 2016, my first born’s birthday. The card had yet to go out and I was super stressed about it. I started writing in a journal, mainly to deal with taking care of my kids while being at the hospital with mom, helping to care for dad, making sure the house was cheery and decorated, and the damn card. I remember clearly writing one day, “Who do you do the Christmas Card for Amy?” And I really was brutally honest. Then I went further and asked, “And why do you do the dumb card?” Lastly I asked myself, “Do you even enjoy doing the card?” Here is in a nutshell what came out of it….and this is the real honest answer.
I do the card to prove to the world that me and my family are GREAT! We are MORE THAN GREAT! We are pretty, we are good, and we are loved! HMMMM (with a cough I will say, “Bull shit!”) We are good and we have a good life, but we can be down right a mess at times, but by God I wanted to make sure that everyone saw, including the neighbors and kid’s friends families who saw us all the time, the “highlight reel” of how wonderful our life is so that I felt good. But the real crazy thing about this is I HATED doing it! It was downright miserable for me. If I liked sending the darn card, it might be a different story, but I hated doing it and I was doing it for the wrong reasons! This all jumped out on a piece of paper one night in my mom’s hospital room. I think it might have been one of my first realizations of how wonderful journaling is! That night I literally was able to answer for myself, with myself, why sending the card was actually harming my mental health. I was literally trying to prove something to anyone who would receive it while encouraging the sick comparison game, and making sure I kept up with whatever everyone else was doing. The stress from getting the perfect picture, to the perfect card, to the perfect envelope, hell even the perfect stamp….all to prove The Berry’s are GREAT! Ha! And pretty much all to prove to myself, literally by lying to myself, we were…. I decided that night no more! And I have NEVER looked back and I am ok with it and I am ok with others not ok with it, because believe it or not I have had people tell me so. But hey, it is ok.
Look I am not saying Christmas cards are this way for everyone. I have plenty of friends who LOVE to do them. From getting the family picture all the way to the perfect stamp. It brings them joy. And hear me when I say this, “I get tons of joy from receiving them!” I actually put them by your name in my contacts on my phone so I see them all year! But, the process of doing them, well, for me it is like fingernails going down a chalkboard, I get my joy others ways. And that is quite alright.
Point to all this is, that night was pure evidence of how journaling can improve your mental state, which in turn improves your physical state, and my self confidence started to be put back together. It was the beginning of Amy Berry figuring out who she is again, what she likes, what she does not like, why she does what she does, what she wants to change about some behaviors, what she wants to improve on, who she wants to become. It was the beginning of The GOOD Life and I had no clue. All over a Christmas Card.
Journaling does this. Journaling helps us to begin to understand ourselves better and helps us to clear our thoughts and unload our emotions. It’s a free space to process your feelings and promote healthy dialog with your beautiful self. When you are able to do this you begin to improve your mental state and gain back your self worth.
2020 has been quite a year why not make it the year that you decide to take back you! Why not start a daily practice of journaling and see what you discover about yourself. You might be surprised like I was and you might free yourself from chains you had no idea were there. I had no idea how destructive that tiny card was to me and those who had to put up with me. I do now and I am so glad I was able to say no.
Until Next Time,
XO,
Amy
The Good Life
Have you ever had a dream that you knew deep in your gut you wanted to do, but you had no clue how you would do it?
Have you ever had a dream that you knew deep in your gut you wanted to do, but you had no clue how you would do it? That is such a vague question I know, but I can’t even figure out how to ask it, so I am going to tell you a story.
When I was in my twenties I had this feeling that I wanted to write a book. I thought it was going to be a children’s book. True story. I even have books at my house that were given to me by my bestfriend Ginger to encourage me along the journey. I would talk about it and I would have ideas, but nothing ever really happened.
In my thirties I started having kids. Anyone who has ever raised kids knows what happens to MOST moms, not ALL moms, but most. We put our dreams on hold for those precious children of ours. I did and I know many a woman who has. And hear me when I say this….there is truly no right or wrong decision to that situation. I think we all do the best we can where we are when we are there. I know, another vague statement…..Kind of full of those today! Just go with me.
Point is, we start having kids. Their lives, along with our spouses lives, leave little to no life left for us. At least that is the lie we buy into. I bought into it BIG TIME! Until my mom got sick. I remember sitting with her on her hospital bed and we were talking about heaven. I was asking her if she was scared to go and we got into a very beautiful conversation. So beautiful I started taking notes. She asked what I was going to do with those notes. I remember shrugging and saying, “I don’t know, but maybe I can write a book for Graeme about death so he is not scared when you leave us.” She said even if I did not write “THAT” book, she knew I had a book in me and when the time came I would write it.
This is the day my mom said I should write a book. I documented it because I wanted she and I to remember this day when the book came out. Sadly she is not here to see it, but I know she is in spirit. As you can see by the look on her face she was not thrilled with me wanting to take this picture! Ha!
You know what? She was right! I did have a book in me. Not a children’s book, not a fictional book, not an autobiography, but a journal! A journal that she played a part in inspiring me while writing it. Even after she had been gone from this earth 3 years, she inspired me! How cool is that?
I am so proud and so excited to announce that The Good Life Journal is here! It is really here and it will be ready to ship this week! I can hardly believe it! But it is happening! And it is happening because:
First, I had a thought: “I want to write a children’s book or do something to help other’s”.
Second, I dreamed about it and spoke about it. I spoke it into the universe. I circled it in prayer, all the while not really knowing what “IT” was. Just persistently circled “It” and persistently asked God to reveal “It” to me.
Third, I surrounded myself with like minded people who believed in me and encouraged me.
Fourth, I got the courage and I pursued the heck out of “It”!
Lastly, I did not stop until I was proud!
I AM SO PROUD OF ME! I DID IT! AND IT FEELS GOOD! The Good Life is Real!
Here is the coolest thing about what I did! I developed a journal that is my own four step process to The Good Life. It is the four steps I have been doing daily since 2017. I firmly believe because of these four steps my life is better, I am a better person, and my dreams are coming true, because I know I am loved, I love me, and I am able to spread that love to others, all the while being filled with the Holy Spirit.
If you have a dream, if you feel you have put your dreams aside, if you have lost yourself, if you are sleep walking through life, if you feel alone, or if you just want to get to know you better, then I want to encourage you to buy my journal and take the next 66 days to get to know yourself and the One who created you more. Miracles will begin to happen. I promise!
What do you say? Want to start your journey to The Good Life? First step: Click here!
XO,
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions #23
Super Simple Meals for your week!
Happy Monday! I am so sorry I am a day late, but unfortunately I have been under the weather with some weird GI issues. Hoping to get back to normal this week, but I am not gonna lie, this was a hard one for me to do because food just sounds blah to me! But I did it! A day late and a dollar short….But by God I did it!
So here is what I THINK I will make this week. Who really knows as I am just not in the mood.
Monday-Amy’s Tortilla Soup This delicious recipe I got from my amazing neighbor Amy, I like to call her Pei Wei, and it is so good! I love making it on a Monday night for the family and eating on the left overs all week with a side of avocado! So good and the thought of soup with my stomach makes me happy.
Tuesday- Tuesday is always Tacos of some sort! This week they will be baked!
Wednesday-JP’s pick of Chicken Feta. Again super easy and you can even make it super duper easy by going to the grocery and getting their whole chickens that are already roasted if you are crazy busy with kid activities or if you are like me and behind or under the weather!
Thursday- we will finish the week out with one recipe that is silly easy and one that both JP and Graeme love! It is so great to use at tailgates like my friend Lyndsy does or brunches or anywhere you have a crowd! And it is B for D! Hawaiian Rolls with Ham and Cheese!!!!!!
So there you have it folks! Four meals and one that is a little bonus recipe for your future tailgates! Will we even have those this year?!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions #22
Simple supper suggestions for your week.
I am so excited to report that I have been getting all kinds of positive feedback on my Simple Supper Suggestions that I have decided I am going to keep on keeping on with the the process! You guys have made it clear that this helps your home life and in reality it does help mine to plan! So I owe you all a HUGE THANK YOU! This week in the Berry Home we will be doing something a little different on Sunday simply because it is a holiday weekend and I do not want to “really” cook! Anyone feel me? If so you will totally understand, if not, I promise it is still good! What is it you ask? Check it out below!
Sunday-Stouffer’s Lasagna! You cannot go wrong with this bad boy! Just add a salad from a bag, frozen garlic bread, and the entire house will be thrilled! Trust me!
Monday-With it being Labor Day the Berry’s will be grilling, but I do have some excellent salads to go along with anything on the grill. Check them out here: Asian coleslaw that is so good and so easy! My friend Laura’s Beau Monde salad is to die for! And you can never go wrong with some Mexican Corn!
Tuesday-Taco Tuesday! Who doesn’t like Tacos on Tuesday? This recipe offers a little twist! Take a look!
Wednesday-Christmas Morning Casserole! B for D is always a hit in my house! Don’t let the title scare you! It is just what we eat every christmas morning at the Berry house!
Thursday-Day 4: Grubba’s Meatloaf: So my father in law was in the Air Force and legend has it when he would come home from being away and he would send my mother in law to her parents for a little time away to rest up after being with three crazy boys ALONE for long periods of time. 20 Years in the air force will do that! Thank you Grubba for your Service! Point is he got REALLY good at meat recipes….Boys love their meat and potatoes! This recipe right here is super easy, super good, and if you have children that are scared of meat in a loaf, trust me it is a thing, just call it meatball meat! For some odd reason wording it differently does the trick! Who knew?
That is what I will be cooking this week! What will you be cooking?
OH! BIG NEWS!
I am also cooking something else up! My JOURNAL is finally going to print and my pre order link is up and working! Here is the deal….it has not printed yet so I have zero examples to show you, BUT what I do have to show you is the cover! The art was done by Will! My oldest son! This mama could not be more proud!!!!!! Take a look! And the first 50 to order will be invited to a night with me and some of my favorite gals! It will be zoom of course so even if you are in Africa, you can still join us for some fun, wisdom, love, and a little dance party! Are you in? If so, order here The Good Life Journal Pre Order link!
Until Next Time!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Simple Suppers #21
Simple meals for the busy family.
Day Late and a Dollar Short! But I am here with Simple Suppers for your week….better late than never! As always we started with Spaghetti Sunday! If you missed last week you do not know that the rule in the Berry Casa is mom cooks Sunday-Thursday and takes Friday and Saturday off! It really works well for us and it is super easy for me because 99% of the time we have Spaghetti Sunday which is quick, easy, and everyone loves it! If I ever get my act together I will get this post out on Saturday and you guys too can partake in Spaghetti Sunday! I promise the kids love it and Trey really loves it! It literally has been a tradition for Trey and I since our dating days back in 1992! He said it feels like home to him. I love that! What meal feels like home to your family? Maybe you guys can start our tradition! I promise it is a tradition that really promotes conversation….something lacking in this world of electronics!
So what are we cooking this week?
SUNDAY: We cooked Spaghetti Sunday It is simple, quick, and a huge crowd pleaser!
MONDAY: Chicken and Rice Soup I really like making soup, sandwiches, and salads on Monday nights because what that does is it leaves me with soup to eat on all week at lunch- which is a lot healthier than any drive through. I don’t do it every week because I like to keep the family on their toes, but I think I would if someone told me they LOVED having soup! Ha!
Tuesday: Tacos via the crock pot which is always a life saver especially on those busy sports nights!
WEDNESDAY: This Wednesday is the amazing Audresha Lynn and I’s cooking show! Tune in live at 5:30 PM CST to see what we will be cooking up! I don’t know what it is yet so I do not have a recipe for ya yet! But I do have you covered! Why don’t you try my Turkey and Squash? This along with my feta chicken is one of JP’s favorite meals I make. It is so easy and so good and do you want to know what else? It is super healthy! #winning
THURSDAY: Steak Burrito Bowl This is such a delicious bowl I make. Graeme really loves it! I think your kids will too and you will love how easy it is and versatile!
So that is what we will be cooking in The Berry home this week! What’s cooking in your world?
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Friday's Faves....for working out!
My three must haves when I hit the gym…..and a bonus!
Long time no FAVES!!!! But someone reached out and asked me if I would bring it back so here I am! Today I am coming in hot with my 3 MUST HAVES for my dance workouts! What I am about to share with you, can be used for any workout and I think you will be happy with my picks.
First up is my dry shampoo! This stuff is magic! I SWEAR! And it smells AMAZEBALLS! Which can come in handy if you ever forget to put on your deodorant…..just spray this in your pits! Trust me! I have done this a number of times! The secret to dry shampoo is to use it BEFORE you sweat! No lie! Trust me on this and I would love for you to try it and tell me what you think. Because of this magic in a bottle I probably only wash my hair once, maybe twice, a week. And my hair is in fantastic shape! Especially for someone entering menopause! So grab you some and let me know what you think. (I use the one for blondes, but I will attach the one for dark hair as well.)
My second must have is my amazing water bottle! This bottle is perfect for anyone wanting to hold themselves accountable in the area of hydration, but it is also the bomb for me at dance. Now it is probably not the best water bottle for those of you on the machines as it would never fit in the cup holder, so I have attached another option here for that as well. But, hydration is so important and with this virus spinning around we want to keep our bodies in tip top shape and water is one of the best ways to do it!
And last but not least on the list is my bra! This bra is my everything! It keeps my girls so snug and secure it is ridiculous! And it comes in a number of colors! So if you are like me and want to keep time and jumping jacks from dragging those babies down, this bra is for you!
https://www.myzyia.com/HEIDISINGERHOUSE/shop/PRODUCTDETAIL.aspx?displayCategory=1010&page=1&prod=406
https://www.myzyia.com/HEIDISINGERHOUSE/shop/PRODUCTDETAIL.aspx?displayCategory=1010&page=1&prod=406
And as an added bonus due to covid I do bring a shield to wear at the gyms that require me to do so. Most gyms do not require a mask in cardio classes, but if they do I wear this and I am able to breathe fairly well, but at least I am not sucking in my own carbon monoxide!
So there are my Friday Faves for this week! What other favorites do you want to know of mine?
Until next time!
XO,
Amy
Simple Supper Suggestions #20
Simple Supper Suggestions for your week.
Simple Supper Suggestions
School is back and so is my Simple Supper Suggestions!
What is Simple Supper Suggestions? Just what it sounds like! Simple Supper Suggestions to help you plan your week.
Why Simple Supper Suggestions?
My mission I am finding is to help busy people simplify their lives while also teaching lessons I am learning along the way. I am by NO means an expert, but what I am is a busy mom with ADD who loves and adores her family but does not want to sleep walk through life anymore and get caught in the rat race of life. Any of that sound familiar? If so you have come to the right place and I hope I can help and maybe you can help me! Who knows? Wouldn't that be a win/win! So if you have any suggestions, ideas, or want to see something by all means throw it out there. I am listening and open! That is how we all grow!
So back to what today is all about....Simple Supper Suggestions! You can take what you like and leave the rest. I promise I will not get my feelings hurt. Be prepared, a lot of this is on repeat because that is what makes life easy!
How does it work with my family? Trey and I along with the boys sit down, or text if I am being honest, ideas for supper the following week. What this does it is helps me to plan, shop, and be ready for whatever comes at me. Does it always work out? Heavens no! But, as I always say....Progress not Perfection and every step in the right direction is a step in the right direction!
Let’s Get Started!
Sunday Spaghetti Sunday! It is a staple in our house and super easy for Sunday night! We LITERALLY do this most Sundays! Repetition and knowing what to expect makes for a much calmer beginning to a new week. Couldn’t we all use a little bit of that about now?
Monday Healthy Chicken Feta! A winner for a Monday night!
Tuesday Sausage Stuffed French Loaf is perfect on a busy Tuesday night!
Wednesday Blueberry Salmon is so delicious and so nutritious and since Trey is in charge of the grill it gives me a night off which is sooooo GREAT!
Thursday Easy and Quick Carbonara! Perfect on Thursday night game night!
Friday and Saturday this little mama takes time off! We order in, we eat out, or sometimes it is cereal for the win! A little bit of cereal never killed nobody!
So there you have it folks! Simple Suggestions to help you plan your week!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
College Bound!-A Mother's Advice To Her Son
A mother’s advice to her son leaving for college…
It happened so fast. It was just yesterday that I found out I was pregnant with you and now you are going to college. Just like that, you are gone, and boy does it feel like you are going to be gone forever.
Realistically I know this is not true, God willing it is not true, but I can’t help but shake the feeling that you are ready to fly. I know this is a good thing, but my heart hurts so bad, yet at the same time I am so excited to see what the future holds for you. Is it possible to be in both emotions? Gut wrenching sadness and excitement? I say yes! Because I am living in it right now.
Will, your future is bright! How do I know this? Well, I am going to give Dad and I a HUGE pat on the back here and say because we did right by you! I know we did. How do I know this? Because we did what we were called to do by our creator. We loved you from the moment you were formed in my womb. We protected you. We raised you to know Jesus. We were there for you and I know for a fact the Holy Spirit is within you. How? Because I see it! I see it daily in your acts of kindness and in your thoughts and in your dreams. Why do I tell you this? So you know you are NEVER alone! EVER! And we are just a phone call or a car ride away. Know that! Remember your safe word? You are never to old to use it! Trust me on that! I will ALWAYS coming running!
This is going to be one of the BEST TIMES of your life! Soak it up! Cherish it! Enjoy this ride, BUT, be smart. Work hard AND play hard. This is kind of a balancing act. Balance to me is a lie society tells us we can achieve. I disagree. I feel that there will be times where you find yourself playing pretty darn hard and YOU, my son, will have to figure out how to fit in the work hard part. You ALWAYS have a choice! Remember life is ALL about choices. Every choice you make has a consequence so make sure you choose wisely and choose carefully.
You will mistakes. We all do! Lord knows I have made MORE than my fair share! What you do with those mistakes will define who you are, the mistake itself will not. You can always pivot and remember, EVERYTHING IS FIGURE OUT ABLE!!!! Trust me on this. You just might have to get creative with the solution!
Speaking of solutions….try to always be a part of the solution. One of the biggest mistakes people make is staying in the problem. Save yourself a lot of time and energy and figure out how to be in the solution. My dad taught me this and it saved me so much anxiety. But, don’t let me fool you….this is a hard one…sometimes we just want have that pity party and be in the problem. Beautiful thing here is YOU are in charge of YOU and you get decide when you no longer want to be in the problem, but in the solution. Being in the solution will automatically put you ahead of the game and you will grow so much from it.
Another huge way to grow is to seek out people who are different, Will. Truthfully, you have always been good at this, but remember you learn from others and when someone is different we can learn so much more about life. So much goodness comes from others which can and will change your life for the better and help you grow into a loving and compassionate person. Something this world needs more of. Speaking of…Be the good! Always be the good.
Get to know your professors. This can make or break a grade. Trust me! I know first hand. And did you know your mama graduated with a 3.95, which back in the olden days was what a 4.6 is for you guys! So there is A LOT of goodness that comes when you get to know your professors, your deans, and anyone who is involved with your school. TRUST me! Not to mention, practicing the art of getting to know others and being truly interested in their lives is a super quality to have out in the real big world. It takes you out of yourself and into others. And that is what people want the most. No matter who they are. They want to be seen, heard, and respected.
Which leads me to my last bit of advice….CALL YOUR MAMA! I NEED to be seen, heard, and loved. I need to know you still need me, even if it is just to ask me where to go to buy socks. I need to know you see me and you adore me….so call me! Please call me!
OK I lied! One last thing…you can pivot on any decisions you make. If you find that what you are doing does not light you up, just pivot! It is not worth doing if it does not light your soul on fire! You do You Will because the world needs the human being you are!!!!!
Dad and I gave you roots and now we must give you your wings!
This is your life Will! It is yours to create! So write the story of your dreams and go after them! Go after them with all your heart! You are AMAZING! You are TALENTED! You are READY! Your mountain is waiting! So get on your way!
LYMSIL
AND, always remember: BE A LEADER, NOT A FOLLOWER. DO YOUR BEST. BERRY’S NEVER QUIT! WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!
LYMSIL!
Mom (and Dad)
PS….KEEP YOUR KNEES TOGETHER! Love, Grubba
Amy's Version of Kazi Fried Rice
If you like fried rice, you gotta try this recipe! It is so good!!!!!
So when Will and JP were little they always LOVED to go to this restaurant on their birthdays called Kazi. Well, the tradition rolled over to sweet Graeme and unfortunately this year we were shelter in place. So I started a mission. I decided I was going to figure out how to make fried rice as close to Kazi as I could. And folks I am happy to say tonight I might have nailed it! The only thing missing was the entertainment of the hibachi chef and I had to do it. But hey it is ok because I have been practicing this entire shelter in place, researching how to get the rice perfect, and I think I got it! And yall! It is super easy!!!!! Now disclaimer, it does take at least 24 hours and I will explain why in a minute, but after you do the prep it is so easy! Promise! So give it a whirl and let me know what you think! And in case you are wondering, the kids LOVE this stuff! So try it!
Little Will and JP! Oh my how I miss these boys!
Amy’s Version of Kazi Fried Rice
Ingredients:
Rice (we like basmati)
Chicken breast (at least 2 large ones)
Coconut Amino Acids (I prefer this over soy sauce, but you can use soy sauce)
Teriyaki Sauce
Chopped Garlic or Crushed in the jar is what I used
Butter (At least 5 tablespoons), but the more the better!
5 eggs
Pam spray
Frozen corn
Frozen peas
Chopped carrots
chopped green onion for garnish
Pepper for taste
And whatever hot sauce your family likes. We like a little bit of it all!
PREP:
24 hours before you are making your meal place your uncooked chicken breast in a gallon bag and marinate them in the coconut aminos, teriyaki sauce, and 2-3 tablespoons of chopped garlic. I just made sure to coat them. I did not really measure it. And I did 6 breasts total so we had chicken for salads and to nibble on.
Make your rice and this I am telling you is the secret. Make your rice a day in advance. If your family is like mine it is a win win because mine likes to eat rice with everything so I made a HUGE Tupperware full. Keep your rice in the refrigerator for at least a day. Trust me. This is the secret to make your rice the day before….that is if you want it to be like the restaurant.
When you are ready to make dinner grill your chicken. Once your chicken is done chop up however much you want and place in a bowl. Tonight I used 2 large breasts for my family of 5 to give you a feel and I chopped it up small.
In a large skillet scramble 5 eggs until they are almost done….still a little runny and pour that over the chicken.
Next take at least 5 tablespoons of butter and put it in the skillet you made your eggs in. Once the butter is melted place as much rice as you want in your skillet. I filled our skillet up, but left room for all the goods. (The chicken, peas, corn, carrots, etc). While your rice is frying in the butter make sure to be stirring it on and off. Start putting teriyaki sauce and amino acids on your rice. Again I did not measure I just kept pouring it on top to turn the rice brown, while it was cooking in the butter. Then I added my frozen peas and frozen corn until they were bright and cooked. Next I added the carrots. Once the vegetables were bright and the rice was nice and cooked I added the chicken and eggs and put some more amino acids in and stirred. I then used pepper for flavoring and garnished with chopped green onions. That is it. I know it sounds like a lot, but it was super easy and oh so good!!!!! Try it and let me know what you think and don’t forget if you like some kick add some hot sauce. We like Franks or Cholula at the Berry house!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Grieving the Good
Sometimes we grieve the good longer than the loss of the person.……
Dear Mom,
Today you would have been 84 years young on this earth, man do I miss you and man do I wish you were here to give you some blue hydrangeas.
This might be my biggest regret. Not sending you blue hydrangeas with daisies on your special days, especially the day you were born. Now in your honor I will make sure I build myself my own arrangement on your day in memory of you. Why? Well, for one I am not going to make it into Graham to bring anything to your grave. I know, you would say, “It is ok. I am not there anyways.” But, I still feel guilty and for some reason I feel the need to apologize for not visiting your grave or our home. The home you gave me so much love, so much direction, and so many prayers.
You know I have yet to go home since your funeral over 3.5 years ago. I just can’t. I know that was your dream home. You LOVED our home and you took care of it with so much pride. You not being there makes it feel like a black hole. I know I need to go and sit in there and remember. Remember all the love, all the fun, all the bad, all the ugly, all the miracles, all the things….I just can’t…..
My friend Tiffany told me it is ok. It is ok to be grieving the good. I think that is what I am doing now. I have grieved the loss of you. I have grieved not getting to hear your voice every day at three o’clock. I have grieved not being able to call you when life has been really, really, really, hard, and now…..now I will grieve all those beautiful moments and memories. Memories I am so lucky to have because I had you as a mom.
Mom, I miss you. For some reason I miss you more now that I am grieving the good, but I know….”This too shall pass…”, that is what you would say and you would remind me you are here. In spirit and in my heart and truly in my soul.
I love you mom.
Happy Earthly Birthday! Hope you are eating all the sugar you can being that you were a diabetic and never could here.
Love you big! Miss you Lots!
Amy
Do You Want to Hear a Secret? I Know One!
I have a secret….one that has brought me so much peace….one that I want to share with you today…. so let me ask you, “Do you want to hear a secret…I know one……”
Wow! It has literally been almost two and a half years since I started this journey with Worthy Heart. A journey I began in the midst of heavy grief. I had lost a part of me, not a limb or anything, but I lost my mom. She was my best friend. She drove me crazy, but gosh I loved her! I talked to her everyday at 3:00 and I was lost when she died. Until this blog which helped me find my way. I will forever be grateful for that gift alone, but that is not the only gift this blog has given me. This blog has literally given me the gift of an abundant life. Truly! Through my writing I have learned a little secret. A secret I would love to share with you.
Growing up I had this doll, Mrs. Beasley. I still have her actually thanks to my brother in law Ralph! That’s another story at another time, but you would pull her string and she would say things and one of her sayings was, “Do you want to hear a secret? I know one.”
I pulled her down from the closet the other day and pulled the string and that was what she said and it hit me…..through my writing and journaling I am learning a valuable secret. You see these last two and a half years have been ROUGH! For those of you who know me personally, you know exactly what I am talking about. For those of you who do not, well my story might surface someday. I am just not ready yet. What I am ready to do is share my secret. A secret that if you can grasp it, hold on to it, and use it, I promise your life will be abundant. I don’t know how or what that looks like for you, but I promise you will see miracles. Little miracles, big miracles, and miracles of all sizes in between.
THE SECRET
I am not in control! Yep you heard me! I am not in control! I am not in control! I am not in control!
I was not in control of my parents and where they lived or did not live. I was not in control of my mother’s falling or not falling and ultimate demise. I am not in control of my siblings and what they want to do with dad or not do. I am not really in control of my teens and their decisions and there choices good or bad. I am not in control of my husband. I am not in control of my Church and it’s beliefs. My vote will not control who is elected or not. I am not in control of my kids happiness. I am not in control of who likes my choreography and who does not. I am not in control of who likes me or dislikes me or who talks about me or whatever! I am only in control of ME and I am truly powerless over anyone else or any situation. The only thing I am in control of is me, myself, my mind, my actions, my thoughts, and my feelings. No One else’s. YALL! Once I realized this, the chains were broken and I was set free! I mean as free as naked toddler running through a sprinkler on a hot summer day! FREE and HAPPY!
Once I let go of all the control, let go of all the battles, and let go of all the the situations….that was when I truly started to make choices because they were good for me, not because of the effect they might have on others or how others might think of me. Once I learned to truly turn to God for HIS WILL, not mine, it was then and only then that I realized HE is in control. God is in Control. Not me. Once I truly LET GO AND LET GOD I was free and God stepped in and has been sorting things out in ways that I cannot even begin to describe. Beautifully and magically. Sure at times I scratch my head and think, “Really dude!” Other times I scream and questions, “Really dude?” And still other times I sigh, cry, and say, “Really dude….” In other words I did not begin to poop unicorns and burp butterflies, but I have surrendered and guess what: NEWS FLASH! The sun, earth, and moon still continue to revolve without any help from me.
So what do I do with that? Well, I live my life knowing I am in good hands. God’s beautiful hands. Guess what my friends. You are too! No matter how out of control your life is. No matter how ugly or insane. No matter how chaotic or mixed up, I promise Let Go and truly surrender and Let God and watch what happens. Miracles happen! That is what happens.
How do I do this? It is simple and you can do it too. I say a prayer every day. Sometimes three, four, five, times a day and simply saying this prayer brings me peace. Grounds me. It can do the same for you, if you open your heart and your ears to it. Speak it. Hear what you say and truly feel it.
THE SERENITY PRAYER
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. (People, places, things, situations,) The Courage to change the things I can. (Me, my beliefs, my thoughts, my reactions, my actions, my words) And the wisdom to know the difference.
MY CHALLENGE
Today, I want to challenge you to join me in saying this prayer at least once a day for 30 days! If you want an even bigger challenge and bigger miracles, I challenge you to get on your knees and say it. I dare you. What do you have to lose? Nothing! What do you have to gain? I don’t know, but from where I am sitting I dare say life. Do it! I dare ya!
Until next time,
XO,
Amy
Dresha's Shrimp Tacos and Cilantro Lime Rice
This is hopefully the first of many new blog post with amazing recipes brought to you by Dresha and Amy! What am I talking about? Well, my girlfriend Dresha and I have decided to start a cooking show. More like Dresha will be doing the cooking and I will be her sous chef and your entertainment. Just typing that cracks me up! But it is a true story. We have decided to do a cooking show together. Why? Well, the truth. We are both bloggers, writing books, hoping to inspire, encourage, and empower others, and the truth is we thought it would be fun to get to know our audiences. So I would love if you are reading this, if you take the time to jump onto the gram, the book of face or both, and follow my girl @audreshalynn-instagram and @audreshalynn-book of face. She has a story that will change lives….it changed hers for sure! So go check her out, AFTER, you take down this delicious recipe.
SHRIMP TACOS/ CILANTRO LIME RICE/ AND SLAW
Ingredients:
1 pinch of light brown sugar
1 tablespoon of chili powder
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Old Bay Seasoning
2-4 tablespoons chopped garlic in a jar (I prefer 3 but Dresha said her ancestors said, “NO!”) or 4 fresh garlic cloves minced
green onions
1-2 bay leaves
Slaw Mix
4 limes
cilantro
1/4 cup of sour cream
unsalted Kerry Gold butter
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups water
frozen Artisan Red Shrimp from Trader Joes
2 cups of long grain rice
corn or flour tortillas
black pepper and salt for taste
Garnish: Lime slices, fresh jalapeno chopped, chopped cilantro
PREP:
Shrimp: Place frozen shrimp in a bowl of room temperature water and let thaw.
Rice: The secret to this is you rinse your rice in cold water before you do anything. True story. I did not understand why and still do not, but this was so delicious, I will rinse rice from here on out. Once your rice is nice and rinsed off, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in the pot you plan on cooking your rice in. Once the butter is melted add your garlic and stir around a bit. Next add your rice and mix it around really good until all of your rice is covered in the butter. Add salt and pepper for taste and lots of pepper! No lie, I was scared, but now I am a believer, and the pepper was amazing!!!!!! Once your rice is nice and coated add 2 cups of water and 1 cup of chicken broth. Add 1-2 bay leaves and bring your rice to a boil. Once your rice is boiling, reduce your heat, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Once the rice is done remove the bay leaves and add lime skin. (What is this? Just grate the outside of the lime and make some lime zest.) Next add juice from 1/2 of the lime, cilantro, and green onion. Truth be known here. This is an area that Dresha “called on her ancestors” and she adds based on her taste buds. Just add what you are feeling here.
Shrimp! While your rice is boiling drain the water from your shrimp and season REALLY GOOD with Old Bay Seasoning. I mean coat those babies and coat them good! Next add your chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir around really good. Next heat 1 tablespoon of Olive Oil in a pan and 2 tablespoons of chopped garlic or 2 cloves minced. Once the butter is melted add your shrimp, a pinch of brown sugar, and cook until cooked through. Place on a plate until ready to build your tacos.
Slaw: Take one whole package of slaw mix and add 1/4 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and mix really good.
Tortillas: Heat a skillet with ZERO oil or butter! Place tortillas on hot skillet and heat. If they are corn they will get a little “tan”. If they are flour they will bubble up a little and that is when you flip them.
To build that delicious taco all you do is take your tortilla, add your shrimp, your slaw, and garnish how you like it! Pair it with your yummy rice, and go to town stuffing your face! These are so good! So good that JP ate 6!!!!!!!
Bon Appetit!
Amy and Dresha!
PS! Don’t forget to give Dresha a follow and be looking for more of our shows in the future!!!!!
Amy's Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal, Bacon Cookies
This morning I woke up and I wanted oatmeal, peanut butter, and bacon! I have no idea why either because I normally just eat leftovers from last nights dinner, but this morning I had a hankering. Unfortunately, or rather fortunately now, we did not have bacon. So I ate leftover fajitas and decided I was good.
Then I got this crazy bug up my behind and went to the store and bought what I needed to make a creation. Oh boy, Oh boy, Oh boy, Oh boy….this is some good stuff people! I made the most delicious cookies! True story, Trey was not thrilled with the idea when I said it, but then he tasted it and his exact quote was, “Damn, my baby can cook!” So why don’t you get your hands on these ingredients and try out this amazing recipe!
Amy’s Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal, Bacon Cookies with a splash of Sea Salt!
Ingredients:
1 and 1/2 cup all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 sticks unsalted butter (1 cup) softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark is fine)
2 large eggs
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups old-fashioned whole rolled oats
1 bag nestle toll house semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 package bacon
PREP:
Cook your bacon how you like but make sure to save at least 6-8 strips for this recipe. Crumble your bacon in a small bowl into bits.
Then whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl. Place that to the side.
In another large bowl mix your butter until smooth.
Add your sugar and your brown sugar and beat until creamed.
Add the eggs, peanut butter, and vanilla. Beat until combined.
Add your dry ingredients into your wet ingredients and mix until combined.
Mix in your oats on low speed, then your chocolate chips and bacon bits. Once all of ingredients are mixed well, cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes. If you leave in the refrigerator longer (say overnight which is ok, make sure to bring your dough out and get it to room temperature before baking. (At least 30 minutes)
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
Make balls of dough and bake for about 15 minutes. I like to dust them while they are cooling with sea salt, but if you don’t want that much salt leave this step out. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes before trying to transfer or else they will crumble.
You can store these cookies for up to a week!
I promise you these are a hit! Try them and let me know what you think!
Bon Appetit!
Amy
Is God Reliable?
Is God Reliable? Well there is a loaded question. One I can answer with a resounding, “Heck ya!” AND most of you know my motto: “If it is not a Heck Ya, than it is a NO!” That simple. This question for me personally is a HECK YA! Why? I would love to share this. Matter of fact I can’t wait to share this!
I was reading my bible this morning and it came to me in a whisper, “Amy, today I want you to write about the first R in suRrender.” I am not kidding either and for those who know me well, I have literally asked my bible study friends, “How do you hear God?” I heard Him! Loud and clear I heard Him! In Jeremiah 33:2-3, which is the chapter I am on in my SOLO online devotional group.
Oddly enough my SOLO girls skipped this chapter, which always throws this recovering Catholic into a bit of a tisy, but this morning it did not. It was clearly just God and me. And I want to share how it went down because I still have chills.
The Verse goes like this from The Message:Bible, “This is God’s Message, the God who made earth, made it livable, and lasting, known everywhere as God. ‘Call to me and I will answer you, I’ll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.’ “ Jeremiah 33:2-3~
Pretty powerful verse. The way our study goes is you read the verse then you move to the THINK portion of the study. In the think portion of our study it asked me what word or phrase settled deeply in my soul and why? For me it was, “Call to me and I will answer you”….not only will God answer me he will tell me marvelous and wonderful things that I could never figure out on my own. I sat there in that because it was obvious why the verse stood out. Call to me and I will answer you. Like a child who calls to a parent and the parent comes running. Simple right? This verse is a guarantee that God hears me and will answer me. WRONG! Amy Berry’s mind started reeling….what about all those times of pain and suffering and all the bad that has happened to my family lately God? Why death God? Why cancer in kids or cancer in general? Why Covid? Why racism? Why suppression? Why friends against friends due to political hot topics? Why bad cops? Why bad people? Why God? That is where my mind went……and it was not pretty.
Are you there God? What is happening in this world? Can I rely on you? These are real questions he wants to hear from us. Ask him….he is there for you.
What did I do? Did I get angry? Maybe a little, but I did what anyone should do when there are questions. I dug deeper. I asked more questions. I got to the bottom of Jeremiah and what I learned was powerful for me and I hope it is for you too.
Now I am going to assume most of you are like me and have no clue of the context so I will map it out. If you do, bare with me. I keep things real simple for my simple mind. So Jeremiah was a prophet who back in the day was put in prison or went into hiding quite a bit for preaching about God and about sins and what can happen when we sin. Pain, disappointment, destruction, you know bad stuff. A lot of people thought of him as the weeping prophet, but in reality Jeremiah knew God! He knew God had a plan for us, one that we would prosper with no pain only hope and a beautiful future. Jeremiah was hopeful! He was a believer in God and he thought it was a personal matter and that each person had to take responsibility for their own personal relationship with God. Very much like today, but he preached it to the rooftops and was put in prison or was in hiding for it very unlike today. Jeremiah understood this: Religion must be deep within EACH individuals hearts and lived out in their lives. Not a group of people or a building….religion for Jeremiah was personal.
Good stuff huh….I think so, but it dawned on me. Jeremiah was in prison, alone, very much like I have been lately. Only my prison is not bars. Mine is hopelessness like his, doubtful like his, wondering if God forgot me and my family and I am sure like Jeremiah felt. And…..God visited Jeremiah in a vision just like he did me today in my mind. I just did not get the vision, I got it in a thought and a sense of peace. He promised Jeremiah he would answer and he has promised me. Maybe not how I want but, he knows best. Just like a parent with a teenager who asks to do something and we know what is best. Or a child who wants a toy and we say no because we know they don’t need that. God knows what is best. Do I trust that 100 percent. If I am being honest…..No, I do have a little doubt….that is the control freak in me….but I desperately 100 percent want to trust it. That is a start.
I relate to Jeremiah a lot really. He is alone in a prison and I feel alone a lot lately. He is behind bars watching people have fun, go on with life, some sinning and getting away with it and he is suffering and truly believes in God. If I am being honest I have felt this way since 2017. Even before The Storm hit my family. The closer to God I get the more imprisoned I feel, but yet I also feel this peace I have never had. It is so hard to explain. I see myself stuck in this “New Life” while others get to continue doing what they do. Right, wrong, or indifferent this is just how I feel. Maybe it is because I am growing in areas I needed to grow. I know I wanted to heal from pain, from suffering, from disappointment….Oh Lawd the disappointments! Sometimes it feels like one storm after another hits and I am trying desperately to trust and grow and then BOOM! Just like that a morning like this morning happens and I feel God. I hear God. And I relate to someone from biblical times and I know God has a plan. Do I know what it is? No! Do I know what he is working on for me behind the scenes and do I know in my heart of hearts he will answer me when I cry out. Yes and no!
No I don’t know what is happening behind the scenes, but yes I know he wants me to call on him. I know he is RELIABLE and if I SuRrender to him and obey he has a beautiful plan for me and for my family. A plan to prosper me and my family, not harm us, and a plan to give us hope and a future.
This morning God came to me! And I have hope!!!!! Do you? He is RELIABLE! AND YOU ARE WORTHY OF HIS LOVE AND FUTURE HE HAS IN STORE FOR YOU. Do you believe that?
Until Next Time,
XO,
Amy
