December 19th - A Beautiful Messy Christmas

The Christmas Story - A Beautiful Mess

Mary was a young Jewish girl from a poor family.  She was rightfully engaged to a carpenter named Joseph.  As she waits for her wedding day to arrive, an angel named Gabriel visits her and tells her that she is pregnant through the Holy Spirit, even though she is a virgin.  He says that she has been chosen by God because of her faithfulness.  However, it doesn't seem like much of a “reward” since, on top of the social disgrace, a woman could rightfully be stoned for such an offense in those days.

A beautiful mess.

Thankfully, Joseph is a gracious man.  When he finds out that his fiance is pregnant, knowing the child is not his, he decides to break up with her quietly.  But before he can do so, an angel visits him in a dream and tells him that Mary is carrying the Messiah, conceived by the Holy Spirit.  Despite the social humiliation he will also face, Joseph takes Mary as his wife as God told him to do.

A beautiful mess.

As if all of this was not hard enough, Caesar Augustus decides to count those that were left living in the Roman Empire thus requiring Joseph and Mary to travel about 70 miles at the very end of her pregnancy.  The journey right to Bethlehem takes 3 or 4 long days with Joseph on foot and Mary riding on a donkey.  One might think that God’s favored one could be spared such a painful journey.

A beautiful mess.

Mary and Joseph finally arrive in Bethlehem.  They are most likely exhausted, especially Mary.  But once they had reached Bethlehem, they went left and right looking for a place to stay. No rooms were left in Bethlehem. And of course, this is when Mary goes into labor!  A kind innkeeper allows them to stay right in his stable with the animals.  It is here that Mary gives birth to her first child, and lays him to sleep in the animals’ feed trough.  No doubt, this was not exactly what Mary had envisioned.

A beautiful mess.

On the night Jesus is born, angels appear to a group of shepherds tending their flocks in a field right near Bethlehem.  One of the angels tells them that the Messiah has been born that night, and the shepherds decide to go right then to see the baby.  Shepherds were filthy from being in the fields for long periods of time keeping track of their sheep, and were considered ceremonially unclean.  It didn't get much lower in status in that society than shepherds…  Not exactly the first visitors one would want coming to visit their newborn baby.  But the shepherds came, and they went out spreading the good news that the Messiah was born.

A beautiful mess.

Wise men spotted a new star right in the sky which marked Jesus’ birth, and they came from the east to find the right baby the prophets had foretold.  Along the way, they visit King Herod, and ask him where the right baby is.  Herod, who feels threatened by the new “king of the Jews”, gathers all of the important people left in the area and plots to kill Jesus.  As a gift, one of the wise men brings Myrrh, a perfume used to anoint dead bodies… a symbol of the suffering Jesus would endure 30-some years later. 

A beautiful mess.

Jesus grew up, led a sinless life, taught many people, healed the sick, was persecuted and tested … and then in his early 30’s, condemned to a brutal death by crucifixion to pay the debt for our sins that we could never pay ourselves. 

The biggest “beautiful mess” of all time.

At Christmas, as we celebrate the beautiful story of Jesus’ birth, remember how God wove all of the messy, unexpected pieces together to bring about something amazing when he sent his only son for us. 

What's Ahead: January 9th

• Bunco Time!!
• Individual Challenge: bring a friend to MOPS
• Food/Drinks provided by all groups

Hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

See you in 2014!!!

MOPS at The Grove

The Grove Baptist Church

12300 County Line Road

Madison AL 35756

Pastor Ross Clemmons

Children's Minister Lottie Partridge

Phone: 256-233-2080

Email Us!

Like Us on Facebook!

MOPS International

December 5th

A Beautiful Mess

Embrace Your Story

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."                      Matthew 11:28

Moments of Peace

Ahhh...rest. Who wouldn't love a day of rest? But let's face it. Mothers don't really get a day of rest. If we rested, who would fix breakfast? Ho would get the children ready for church? Who would do the laundry so your son can wear his lucky socks for the game on Monday? 

No, there's not a lot of rest in a mother's schedule. But, that's not really the kind of rest this verse is talking about. The rest mentioned in this verse is the kind of rest that only Jesus can provide. Resting in Jesus means feeling secure in Him and allowing His peace to fill your soul. That kind of rest is available to all -- even mothers. 

So, in the midst of the hustle and bustle of your life (even if you're elbow deep in dish water), you can rest in Him. Start by meditating on the Lord's promises and His everlasting love for you. Make a mental list of the things in your life that you are thnkful for, and praise God for each one. Allow His love to overwhelm you...and rest.

Today's Devotion: The Most Important Christmas Choice by Tracie Miles

"Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.'" Luke 2:13-14 (NLT)

Tis' the season to be merry... and stressed. Although it should be a season of peace, this month can often make us feel more tangled up inside than a messy string of Christmas lights.

Some people dread the hustle, bustle, and emotional rustle this time of year brings, knowing that irritability, loneliness, or depression will threaten. While there are others who may love the Christmas season, but worry, busyness, family conflicts, and unmet expectations take their toll.

In either case, we have a decision. We can choose to get bogged down with stress or we can choose to bow down in worship.

Scripture gives us a beautiful picture of praise in Luke 2:13-14. When Jesus was born, an angel of the Lord appeared to the shepherds sharing the good news. Then many other angels joined together and praised God.

"Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.'" (NLT)

That's not the only place the Bible records angels worshipping the Lord. In Hebrews 1:6 it says, "And when he brought his supreme Son into the world, God said, 'Let all of God's angels worship him.'" (NLT) And Revelation 5:11-12a says, "Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. And they sang in a mighty chorus." (NLT)

Angels serve as role models of worship. They bow down before Jesus. They shout with incredible joy as they sing songs of praise. Through worship, angels spread the news of God's glory and exhibit holy reverence. Angels intentionally and deliberately spend time praising God.

Keeping Christ in Christmas is more than just a cliché. It is an intentional act of worship. It requires a heart of adoration, much like the angels had. When Jesus is the focus of our holiday, we're centered on His love, peace, and joy.

This prompts us to be His hands and feet to others in need. When worship fills our hearts, it leaves little room for aggravation in long lines at the store. We focus on what Christmas is truly about—the amazing gift of a Savior—rather than stressing out over buying the perfect presents. We exhibit grace to someone when we'd rather do otherwise. Worship turns our attention to giving thanks to Jesus for all He has done, rather than letting stress strip His joy from our hearts.

And it might even mean joining in with the heavenly chorus to sing praises to Him, even if we can't carry a tune!

The holidays can bring a flurry of heightened emotions and can often result in an unhealthy level of stress which can prevent us from engaging in worship and praising the One we are supposed to be celebrating.

There will be lots of choices to be made during the month of December: where to serve, what gifts to buy, and how many events to attend. The most important choice we can make is to worship and sing praises to our Lord. For His gift. For His love. For His peace.

And when our hearts are at peace, our holidays can be too.

Lord, I choose to intentionally worship and praise You during this Christmas season. Help me stay focused on You and Your goodness. Amen.

Craft: Painting Cork Boards

Supplies: 6"x 6" cork board tile, acrylic paint, tape, paintbrushes, hot glue, ribbon, anything else you wish to decorate with

Purpose: To create a posting board, mouse pad, or coasters for home use

Directions: 

1. Decide which project you would like to do. If you want to do coasters decide whether to paint or cut first.

2. Lay tape if making stripes, or paint at will

3. Let dry for 30 minutes. Remove tape if necessary.

4. Use hot glue to attach ribbon or twine

Note: If using as a posting board, you can place it in a frame or attach removable 3M wall mounts to the back.

What's Ahead: December 19th

• Dirty Santa Gift Exchange (participation is optional): if you would like to participate just bring a $5 gift, something that you wouldn't mind taking home
• December is Secret Sister Exchange: Bring a gift for your secret sister if you didn't bring it today
• Steering Team is responsible for food
• The Grove Staff Members will be joining us for lunch!!! A great opportunity to get to know them!!

Cream of Chowder Soup (serves 4)

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 cup diced bacon
• 4 medium potatoes, chopped
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups water
• 2 1/2 to 3 cups cream-style corn
• 2 12-ounce cans or 1lb 4 oz package of frozen corn
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Pepper to taste
• 2 cups half and half or light cream, scalded

Preparation:

Saute bacon until browned and crisp; add chopped potatoes and onions. 

Add water, corn, and seasonings; cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Stir in half and half; heat through but do not boil. 

*May add carrots for a little more flavor. Soup goes well with cornbread*

MOPS at The Grove

The Grove Baptist Church

12300 County Line Rd.

Madison, AL 35756

Pastor: Ross Clemmons

Children’s Pastor: Lottie Partridge

Phone: 256-233-2080

Email Us! 

Like Us on Facebook!

MOPS International

The Christmas We Were Broke

We lived lean that winter of 2002. After months of deep pay cuts and our first two months of unemployment, we were struggling to pay the bills and worrying how we’d provide for our nearly one-year-old baby girl. 

Michael and I figured the only gift that year would be the noble fir tree we found for $10 at a faraway Christmas tree farm, and we did delight in that big tree. Evenings on the floor reading books under its twinkle,
holding our baby up so she could see the way lights danced against the fancy ornaments up top. 

One morning, a friend in my moms group shared about an early Christmas in her marriage: “My husband was in school, and we didn’t have two pennies to rub together, so we cut out pictures
of things we wished we could give each other.” 

So that’s what Michael and I did. 

For weeks leading up to Christmas, we chose each other’s gifts with scissors, magazines and stacks of newspapers. 

I cut out an ad for a ski pass, a new down jacket, a Mediterranean-style home for sale in our neighborhood, pictures of places I thought he would love to visit. I wrote hopes for our family, appreciation for him as father and husband. 

These years later, it still brings tears to my eyes to remember our joy that Christmas morning, unwrapping one by one the slips of paper tied with small pieces of ribbon. 

For me, diamond earrings, a cashmere scarf, a trip to Greece and Italy, words like peace and freedom.
I can’t even remember what all. 

But I do recall how I felt: Loved. Seen. Treasured. 

Just this morning, I told Michael I was writing about Christmas. “That Christmas where we cut things out for each other?” he asked with a smile. 

“Do you remember what you gave me or what you opened that year?” I asked. 

“Nope. It wasn’t about the stuff,” he said. 

We knew it then, and we sure do know it now.

By Ashley Larkin, mom of three


Ashley and her husband Michael have been married for 15 years and are parents to three daughters, ages 11, 8 and 5. They live in Portland, Oregon and think they may cut out their gifts for each other again this Christmas. Follow Ashley at her blog, Draw Near or on Twitter @ashleymlarkin.

Thankful for Reality by Alexandra

You see, Darling, somewhere along the way I’ve missed the Thanksgiving commercials with the mom trying to nurse the baby in the corner of the packed living room. One hand struggling to keep her kicking babe on her breast, the other pulling the blanket back over her shoulder for the ten zillionth time to avoid flashing her husband’s entire extended family. You know, the Hallmark ads that show life as it actually is.

 Across our country today families will gather and be thankful. We will eat more pumpkin pie than our tummies can handle. But unlike the beautiful-people commercials filled only with toasts and hugs, there will be toddlers with meltdowns in front of relatives their parents haven’t talked to in years, babies teething and off schedule desperate for a quiet, dark place to nap and pregnant women who swoon (and not in a good way) at the smell of the turkey the rest of us find delightful.

I get bombarded with images of what I’m supposed to want. When the table settings, or the festive guests or the showroom kitchen don’t quite match what’s actually in front of me, I feel dissatisfaction creep in. And when we get to that point I can pretty much kiss gratitude good-bye.

So here I am in my house with dirty dishes and piles of clothes, some clean and some dirty, but I’m not sure quite which are which, and I’m deciding to be thankful for what I ACTUALLY live with. The stuff, the people, the reality. My gratitude list does not involve artfully constructed words that make the simplest piece of fruit sound like a work of art. Rather it goes something like this:

I am thankful for…          

                sharpie pen on the wall

                moldy leftovers in the fridge

                 interrupted sleep

                girls in timeouts

You might not see these items in a typical Thanksgiving commercial, but here is what they mean to me. Sharpie pen on the wall means precious hands that share a warm, safe home with me. Moldy leftovers in the fridge means access to more food than our family can possibly eat. Interrupted sleep means voices in the middle of the night that call out for one person, “Mommy!” And girls in timeouts means children who explore limits and parents who love them enough to set them.

I am thankful for this beautiful mess of a home and a family. We probably couldn’t sell you any Christmas lights or ipads, so I don’t expect a camera crew to arrive anytime soon. But I wish they would at least go to a REAL family gathering where the mom is cowered in the corner trying to nurse her kicking baby. Because that is reality. And I’m thankful for mine.

What reality are you thankful for today?

By Alexandra Kuykendall - As a mom to four girls, ages 11, 8, 4 and 2, Alexandra is offered daily doses of the ludicrous and sublime. She is the author of this year’s MOPS International theme book, The Artist’s Daughter, A Memoir and is the Mom and Leader Content Editor for the organization. This means she reads a lot and writes when she can. But don’t be fooled by long and fancy titles, most of Alex’s days are spent washing dishes, driving to and from different schools and trying to find a better solution to the laundry dilemma. You can connect with her at AlexandraKuykendall.com.

Operation Christmas Child - MOPS Meeting November 21st

A Beautiful Mess

Embrace Your Story

We made 8 boxes total!! Way to go ladies!!!!

A Thanksgiving Prayer

Our Father, giver of life and joy, who is like you, Oh Lord, that we should come to you with our praise? You need not these words, for you formed our lips. What is man that you are mindful of him? You own the lives of all that inhabit the earth.

Your power, might, and love are seen in the bounty of this season. We gather this day around a table laden with food that you have brought forth. We gather as family and friends whom you brought into this world. We bow before you with humble hearts knowing we live because you brought us to life.

We celebrate this day as a nation of people who have been blessed more than any other people on the face of the earth and at any time. We acknowledge you as the giver of the good we so easily take for granted. Forgive us as we are a forgetful people. Grant us on this Thanksgiving Day, the time to reflect on all the ways you have blessed each of us who has gathered. Increase our understanding of your ways, defeat us when we use our blessings for selfish gain, and remind us to love one another.

Thank you for providing all that we need for life and godliness. Make us to be a light and a blessing to the nations of the world. We acknowledge you as the only true and living God.

Next Meeting: December 5th

• Individual Challenge: bring MOPPETS volunteer and staff gifts
• Hot Messy Mammas are bringing the food

Sweet Potato Chips

Ingredients:
2 lbs large sweet potatoes, scrubbed                     1/4 teaspoon sea salt              
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil                           1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper                  

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees
2. Half the potatoes, then cut into 1/2 inch wedges
3. Toss with oil, salt and pepper in medium bowl
4. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a nonstick baking sheet
5. Bake, turning once, until browned and crisp, about 35 minutes

Hope to see you next week!!

MOPS at The Grove

The Grove Baptist Church

12300 County Line Rd.

Madison, AL 35756

Pastor: Ross Clemmons

Children’s Pastor: Lottie Partridge

Phone: 256-233-2080

Email Us! 

Like Us on Facebook!

MOPS International

Forgiving Myself by Clair Boone

There’s a voice in my head that sometimes whispers, sometimes booms loudly. It tells me I’ll never amount to anything, and that I’m failing as a mom.

I’m familiar, and even good at, forgiving others. Turning off that voice inside my head and forgiving myself is more difficult.  Like a loud gong, the voice pounds unmercifully and whispers that I’m not good enough.

It’s allowing my children more time in front of the TV on a rainy day, or forgetting something they needed, or giving in to a piece of candy right before bed.  Whatever the voice, I’m sure you know how it feels.

Sometimes I find myself in the comparison trap, and the voice gets a little louder as I consider the “better than me” mothers around me. You know the ones. You’re fairly convinced they wake up by 4 a.m., milk a cow, make cinnamon rolls from scratch for breakfast and still manage to keep up with the laundry.

The only problem with the voice in my head is this: It doesn’t know I’m forgiven. It missed the part where a gracious and loving Father came and called you … and me … by name.

When we demand perfection from ourselves we ignore God’s grace – a grace that says you are enough, I forgive you, now forgive yourself.

He forgave me and he forgave you and to live requiring ourselves to be supermom on a daily basis is impossible. That little voice takes a lot of the joy out of motherhood, but you can learn to turn it off and embrace grace.

God chose you – specifically – to be your child’s mom. That little voice takes a lot of the joy out of motherhood, but you can learn to turn it off and embrace grace. You are right where you belong, and you are part of God’s amazing plan for your child. Give yourself some grace!

~ Clair Boone

Clair Boone, a mom of two, is a Slow Cookin' Queen who loves trying out easy crock pot recipes for her family that Moms, short on time and money, will love. Find her and her weekly Slow Cooker Mondays recipes on her blog, Mummy Deals:  http://mummydeals.org/category/slow-cooker-mondays/

November 21st MOPS Meeting

Our next MOPS meeting is this Thursday, November 21st at The Grove Baptist Church (12300 County Line Road Madison AL 35756) from 10am - noon.

Come join us as we pack boxes for Operation Christmas Child. We will be learning about what may be draining us (a little something brought back from MOPS convention). In case that wasn't appealing enough, we may get to hear a little from Kathi Lipp on how to embrace our unique child(ren).

So please come join us for a great time of packing, learning, and of course FOOD and CONVERSATION!!!!

Hope to see you Thursday morning!!!

Thankful Thursday - November 7th Meeting

At this past Thursday's meeting we made thankful trees as we recalled all that we are thankful for in our lives.

Thankful Tree

We also watched this amazing video by Kid President:

A Thank You to Moms Everywhere!!!

Next Meeting: November 21st

• Individual Challenge: bring item(s) for OCC boxes 

• Chaos Cuties are providing the meal

• Don't forget to be praying for our fellow moms as well

*Be shopping for the MOPPETS workers and staff members. *

*We will be collecting items for them December 5th meeting*

A Beautiful Mess

Footprints in the Sand

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.

Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.

Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,

other times there were one set of footprints.

This bothered me because I noticed

that during the low periods of my life,

when I was suffering from

anguish, sorrow or defeat,

I could see only one set of footprints.

So I said to the Lord,

"You promised me Lord,

that if I followed you,

you would walk with me always.

But I have noticed that during

the most trying periods of my life

there have only been one

set of footprints in the sand.

Why, when I needed you most,

you have not been there for me?"

The Lord replied,

"The times when you have

seen only one set of footprints,

is when I carried you."

Pumpkin Muffins

Ingredients:
1 package of yellow cake mix
1 can of pumpkin puree
1 tsp. of ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease your muffin pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix together your ingredients until smooth. Spoon equal amounts of batter into muffin cups.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes and enjoy!

November 7th

We have a MOPS meeting today at The Grove Baptist Church (12300 County Line Road Madison AL) from 10am - noon.

We'll be making some thankful trees and sharing with one another about things we are thankful for. We will also be sharing with one another about how becoming a mom has changed us and shaped us to who we are today.

Don't forget there will be food too!!

It should be a great time of fellowship and fun with a little music and slideshow thrown into the mix.

Hope to see you later this morning for MOPS at The Grove!!!!

Homemade Detergent - October 31st Meeting

A Beautiful Mess

Embrace Your Story

"I met God" 

by JoAnn Kiplinger

I met God in the morning, when my day was at its best, 

And His presence came like sunrise, like a glory in my breast. 

All day long the presence lingered, all day long He stayed with me;

And we sailed in perfect calmness, o'er a very troubled sea.

Other ships were blown and battered, other shops were sore distressed,

But the wind that seemed to blow then, brought to us, a peace and rest. 

Then I thought of other mornings, with a keen remorse of mind, 

When I too, had loose the moorings, with His presence left behind. 

So I think I know the secret. Learned from many a troubled way;

You must seek Him in the mornings, if you want Him through the day.

O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You. In a dry and thirsty land where there is no water. So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory. 

Psalm 63:1-2

Next Meeting: November 7th

• Individual Challenge: bring a written note containing five things you are thankful for

• Disheveled Divas have meal next meeting

• Ongoing Fundraiser: Papa Johns - bring in your receipts off the boxes - MOPS get 20%

• Secret Mom Gift Exchange: if you are participating your next gift will need to arrive during the month of December (the 5th and 19th are meeting dates)

Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Ingredients: (makes about 12 servings)

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cans of ham
• 4 cups shredded taco blend cheese
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 stick of butter

Directions: 

~Place half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of crockpot; top with half of onion, cheese and ham. Repeat layers. 

~Top with cream of chicken soup and butter. 

~Cook on low 6 hours.

***This is a great recipe to freeze and use as an emergency meal! You will have leftovers!***

MOPS at The Grove

The Grove Baptist Church

12300 County Line Rd.

Madison, AL 35756

Pastor: Ross Clemmons

Children’s Pastor: Lottie Partridge

Phone: 256-233-2080

Email Us! 

Like Us on Facebook!

MOPS International

October 31st

Our next MOPS meeting is tomorrow Thursday October 31st from 10am - noon at The Grove Baptist Church (12300 County Line Road Madison AL).

We will be playing a fun game involving our purses and contents therein so be sure to bring a purse and anything you think you might need in that purse.

Food is being brought by Sleepless Beauties.

Hope to see you all tomorrow morning!!!

Ooey Gooey Icky Sticky Meeting

A Beautiful Mess

Embrace Your Story

“Forget yourself for other and others will not forget you”

Milly was a mentally handicapped adult who lived with her mother in a small town. She was known for her proverbial green thumb as a gardener. Lawns, hedges, and flower beds flourished under her loving attention Milly also “volunteered” by cutting grass and weeds, raking leaves, and planting flowers in vacant lots throughout the town. She was known for her “oil can.” She always carried a small can of lubricating oil in her hip pocket and applied a dose of oil to any squeaky door, hinge, or gate she encountered.

On Sundays Milly went to church with her mother. When teased, she refused to respond in any way other than with good humor and unflappable cheer.

When Milly died, everyone in town showed up for her funeral. There were scores who traveled from distant places to attend, including many of those who had once teased her.

Without consciously attempting to do so, Milly exemplified good citizenship. She worked hard, was an optimist, eased tensions, and was a faithful church member.

Others really do notice the small things we do for them in love and kindness.

Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.  Matthew 7:12

Next Meeting: October 31st 

• Individual Challenge: get together with the moms at your table or have a play date and send a picture to the MOPS gmail account

• Bring your purse to the next meeting (and any contents you think you may need)

• Sleepless Beauties have meal next meeting

• Trunk or Treat at The Grove October 30th from 6:00-8:00pm

• Ongoing Fundraiser: Papa Johns - bring in your receipts off the boxes - MOPS get 20%

• Fundraising Survey - we are conducting a survey to try and determine which fundraiser(s) we would like to do as a MOPS group in the spring - please go and fill out the survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/DVKT2V2

Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup butter, softened                                           3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
2 teaspoons baking powder                                  1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice                            2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt                                                  1 tbsp. vanilla
Cinnamon Cream Cheese frosting                         Sprinkles, for garnish

How to make them:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar at medium speed with a mixer until creamy. Add the eggs, vanilla extract and rum extract, beating until combined. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating until combined. Wrap the dough in heavy-duty plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Use a 4-inch pumpkin cookie cutter to cut out the dough. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheets. Bake until the edges are very lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Let the cookies cool on the pans for 2 minutes. Then remove and cool completely on wire racks. Spread the Cinnamon Cream Cheese frosting on the cookies if using. Garnish with sprinkles.

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened                                       *In a medium bowl, whisk together cream cheese, butter, and
1 stick butter                                                                            pumpkin pie spice with mixer. Add powdered sugar in thirds.*
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
3 cups powdered sugar 

MOPS at The Grove

The Grove Baptist Church

12300 County Line Rd.

Madison, AL 35756

Pastor: Ross Clemmons

Children’s Pastor: Lottie Partridge

Phone: 256-233-2080

Email Us! 

Like Us on Facebook!

MOPS International

Ooey Gooey MOPS Meeting

Our next meeting is this Thursday, October 17th!! We are having guest speakers Gail Maahs and Jennifer Rushing teaching us some ways to connect, challenge, and engage our kids in learning using things around our homes. It will be a great time!! Something you don't want to miss!!

Other things you will want to know:

• Secret Mom Exchange has begun - for those that still need to bring their gifts you have until the October 31st meeting
• Food is being provided by Hot Messy Mammas
• International Dues ($24) - Were due last meeting so if you have not paid these yet please do so ASAP - again these go directly to MOPS International and do not stay in our local group - if money is an issue please let me or another steering team member know

MOPS at The Grove
The Grove Baptist Church
12300 County Line Road
Madison AL 35756
mopsatthegrove@gmail.comWish to keep up to date? Like us on Facebook!

October 3rd - Happy Harvest Food Drive

A Beautiful Mess 

“Humor is to life what shock absorbers are to automobiles"

      Winona had no doubt her wedding was ruined and she would be the laughing stock of the town. It was all she could do to keep back the tears as she walked down the aisle with Will. As they neared the back of the church, however, Will burst into laughter - a big, booming, infectious laugh - and Winona had to laugh too. Soon the entire church was guffawing with gusto.       

        On a hot June day, Winona and Will had just exchanged their wedding vows and were about to take their triumphant wedding march back down the aisle. Suddenly, Winona's six-foot-tall brother (a groomsman), fainted, and not very delicately at that. In the course of his falling, he toppled another groomsman and lurched against the best man, nearly forcing him down too. Two attendants each grabbed an arm of the fallen man and dragged him out of the church, in full view of the 300 guests and a horrified young bride.

       Winona said many years late, "My first reaction to nearly any situation used to be 'Oh, no' but Will's first reaction has always been to see humor in a situation. I've grown to adopt his point of view. I figure the very least I can glean from a nightmare is a good laugh and a memorable story to tell later."

“Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, 'The Lord has done great things for them'". Psalms 126:2

Next Meeting: October 17th

• Secret Mom Exchange is under way (optional): If you didn't bring your gift for your secret mom you have two more opportunities to do so this month (17th and 31st)
• Ongoing Fundraiser: Papa Johns - bring in your receipts off the box - MOPS gets 20%
• Fundraising Survey - we are conducting a survey to try and determine which fundraiser(s) we would like to do as a MOPS group in the spring - please go and fill it out at www.surveymonkey.com/s/DVKT2V2

• International Dues ($24) - Past due - if you have not paid please do so at the next meeting

• Table Challenge for October - get together with the moms at your table for a play date and/or a mommy's night out - don't forget to take pictures!!! Most importantly, have fun!!! 

• Food is being provided by Hot Messy Mammas

• Pumpkin Pickin' (and so much more) with The Grove at the Lyons Family Farm - October 12th 9am - we can meet at the church and carpool or meet at the Farm - admission price is 9.75 per person tax included (23 months and under free) - for more information regarding Lyon Family Farms go to www.lyonfamilyfarms.com/index.htm

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Ingredients:

~ 1/2 pound package of linguine

~ 1 cup fresh or frozen broccoli florets

~ 2 tablespoons butter

~ 1 1/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces

~ 1 can Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup

~ 1/2 cup milk

~ 1/2 cup grated Parmesian Cheese

~ 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

How to Make It: 

• Prepare the linguine according to the package directions in a 3 quart sauce pan. Add the broccoli during the last 4 minutes of the cooking time. Drain the linguine mixture well in a colander.
• Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until well browned and cooked through, stirring often.
• Stir the soup, milk, cheese, black pepper, and linguine mixture in the skillet and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbling, stirring occasionally. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese. 

MOPS at The Grove

The Grove Baptist Church

12300 County Line Rd.

Madison, AL 35756

Pastor: Ross Clemmons

Children’s Pastor: Lottie Partridge

Phone: 256-233-2080

Web: www.thegrovebaptist.com

Email: mopsatthegrove@gmail.com

Facebook: MOPS at The Grove

MOPS International: www.mops.org

Our next MOPS meeting is this Thursday at The Grove on County Line Road. You don't want to miss it!! 

Bring your non-perishable items for our happy harvest food drive along with the most knowledge you have about food. There will be a great food related trivia game!!! It's gonna be a blast!!! And of course we are going to have food to eat and some great time to chat with one another!!!


See you at The Grove Thursday 10am!!!


MOPS at The Grove
The Grove Baptist Church
12300 County Line Road
Madison AL 35756
Have questions? Just send us an email!
Wish to keep up to date? Like us on Facebook!

September 19th Meeting

A Beautiful Mess 

“He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Col.1:17

“When the Third Is a First”

Beverly Hudson

       I don’t do my makeup until she’s ready to crawl in my lap. We dab and fluff and pucker together. Her big smile at having her own brushes and empty jars fills my heart.

      This is so new to me, raising a girl. My two sons preferred camouflage pajamas and taking G.I. Joe diving in the Igloo cooler. Bows and ruffles and pink now color our world. 

      I didn’t expect this child. I didn’t ever expect to see a baby weigh 1 pound, 12 ounces and cause an entire community to hold their breath as she fought to take hers. God knew this girl needed that community, and that she would need me, in a special way.

      I have done this before, but it’s a whole new ball game- make that a whole new dance party. I quit a job to give her my time. I am more mature, more focused. I have a few regrets about the way I handled the boys’ early stages. I’m hoping to be more intentional with this little miracle, celebrating the snow showers of fruit puffs before I sweep them up. Twirling more often. Laughing more readily. Hugging harder. Hugging all of them harder. 

      As a woman, raising a girl means I am looking in the mirror more, and not just when primping. She will reflect much of what I show her. I want to help God fill her with strength and compassion. I want her to be so well acquainted with virtue that she won’t shy away from it when she leaves this house.

      I want her to know how special she is and how her stability comes from walking with God, not choosing a man.

      I didn’t know how to spend quality time with God when the boys were babies. I read to them, and I prayed with them. But I didn’t know how to be with God, let alone pass that on to my sons. For me, it took years and crisis to make that happen, to make my day begin with God’s name, to give potty training over to his control, and to feel my garden-dirt-splattered presence was perfect in his sight.

      The miracle has her own little notebook and pencil. We journal together, her marks just scribbles but our words unmistakable. God is our friend. He is right here. All the time. I want her to feel him. I can help her to know him.

      Maybe the tenderness I see in her isn’t related to her gender, but to how I approach her. I have seen first steps and heard first words before, but each new life can be a rebirth for those who nurture that life.

      It’s not about getting through the day now. It’s about loving her through the day, with the grace of God. I can give both of them no less than everything I have.

Next Meeting: October 3rd:

• Secret Mom Exchange is under way (optional): bring a gift (no more than $10) every other month to give to another mom secretly - if you wish to join in please let me or Jenny Fisher know - first gift exchange month is October (3rd, 17th, or 31st meeting dates)

• Individual Challenge - bring non perishable items for Inside Out Ministries - the mom who has completed the most individual challenges at the end of the fall semester will receive a special prize!

• International Dues ($24) - Due October 3rd meeting for those who have not already paid - again these go directly to MOPS International and do not stay in our local group

• Table Challenge for October - get together with the moms at your table for a play date and/or a mommy's night out - don't forget to take pictures!!! Most importantly, have fun!!! 

• Food is being provided by Disheveled Divas

• Pumpkin Pickin' (and so much more) with The Grove at the Lyons Family Farm - October 12th 9am - we can meet at the church and carpool or meet at the Farm - admission price is 9.75 per person tax included (23 months and under free) - for more information regarding Lyon Family Farms go to www.lyonfamilyfarms.com/index.htm

Taco Bells Mexican Pizza

Prep: 15 min.

Bake: 15 min.

Ingredients:

~1 lb. ground beef

~1/4 tsp. onions

~1 1/2 tsp. chili powder

~2 tbsp. water

~ 1/3 cup diced tomatoes

~1 can refried beans

~1/2 tsp. salt

~ 1 cup of cooking oil

~1 cup of shredded cheese

~Burrito Shells

~Salsa

Directions: Cook the ground beef, then drain the excess oil. In the same saucepan add onions, chili powder, salt, and water. Let simmer for about 10 minutes. Get a skillet and pour oil into it. Place burrito shell in oil. Let fry for 30-45 seconds, then flip over and do the same. In a separate sauce pan cook the refried beans. Put beans on the bottom of a burrito shell, then add beef mixture.  Place another burrito shell on top. Spread salsa on top, then add cheese, tomatoes, and onions. Cook in the oven at 400 degrees for 8-12 minutes. Enjoy!!!

MOPS at The Grove

The Grove Baptist Church

12300 County Line Rd.

Madison, AL 35756

Pastor: Ross Clemmons

Children’s Pastor: Lottie Partridge

Phone: 256-233-2080

Web: www.thegrovebaptist.com

Email: mopsatthegrove@gmail.com

Facebook: MOPS at The Grove

MOPS International: www.mops.org

Who Are We?

MOPS at The Grove is a local chapter of MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International, a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging, equipping and developing every mother of preschoolers to realize her potential as a woman, mother and leader in the name of Jesus Christ.

MOPS International’s primary tools for encouragement are local meetings where every mother of preschooler (birth to kindergarten) is invited to come and experience authentic community, personal growth and practical parenting tips to encourage moms to be the best mom possible. Better moms domake a better world.

MOPS at The Grove will have meetings the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of every month from September through May at The Grove Baptist Church (12300 County Line Road Madison AL 35756) from 10am - noon. We have crafts, time of fellowship, and devotion/special speakers during our meeting times. We also eat together at every meeting. Our children have their own program called MOPPETS and meet together for crafts, story time, some music and play time.

A complete list of meetings dates:

Fall 2013
August 22nd
September 5th & 19th
October   3rd & 17th & 31st
November  7th & 21st
December  5th & 19th

Spring 2014

January 16th & 30th
February 6th & 20th
March 6th & 20th
April 3rd & 17th
May 1st & 15th & 29th

Come join us!

If you have any questions, please let us know!!

Jennifer Williams
MOPS at The Grove Coordinator
mopsatthegrove@gmail.com
Facebook: MOPS at The Grove

September 5th Meeting!

We will be having a meeting on Thursday morning from 10-12 at The Grove Baptist Church on County Line Road in Madison. We will be making terrariums with ivy bowls! Don't miss this fun day in which we will undoubtedly be embracing this year's theme of Beautiful Mess!

Remember to drop your kids off by 9:45 so we can get started by 10. Food will be provided by the Sleepless Beauties. We hope to see you there!

First MOPS Meeting of the Year!

Join us for the first MOPS meeting of the year on August 22! We will be meeting at 10:00 am at The Grove Baptist Church in Madison. Come and meet new moms and reunite with old friends. Bring a bag lunch for your kids. Lunch will be provided for the moms. We'd love to see you there! If you're new, your first meeting is free!

The Grove, 12300 County Line Road, Madison, AL 35756