Love is what matters most

Every Spring was the same thing. My kids would burst out in tears because they did not win a certain  competition. How could they? We were all newbies to that culture. There were kids with two generations behind their preschool selves making sure they would win. And they did.

I was too exhausted to do all the work they needed to win that certain competition.

I remember a teacher asking me with guilt behind her voice:

"Do you want her to lose?"

I didn't answer. I exhausted.

Not much has changed since then. The scenario is the same but the competition is now digital.

Parents have the right to be proud of their kids. The digital space is a great place to display that parental rite of passage.

As I try to find meaning in my own parenting journey, I remember that love is what matters most.

We all hear the stories behind the lives of high achievers. Nature, nurture or otherwise, not everyone will get the A. Not everyone will be in the Dean's list.

These temporary achievements are of importance, but love matters most.

I decided to let go of the good and hold on to the great.

When I stare a low grades, I ask myself: Does my kid have a good heart? Do they display compassion for others? Do I need to beg them to be thankful or polite?

Instead of thinking of a digitally social acceptable post. I think of my kid as they age and have my grandchildren. Will the grades matter then? Maybe. Yet, love will matter most.

At the end of the day, God gives grace to every parent. We all want to do our best for our children.

I am determined not to be caught competing with others as far as the achievements I display. I want to love my children well.

This journey of love, can't be displayed online. It is a private, slow process and the fruits will be ripped decades from now.

Loving well matters. Let's love our children well in private and let's watch them bloom.

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School Year Lessons

I'm always amazed at how quickly the school year goes by. I shouldn't be: time waits for no one.

God, who is outside of time, knows what we should do:

"So teach us to number our days,

That we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Psalm 90:12 (NKJV)

I do pray that after all we went through this year, we gain a heart of wisdom. Like most parents, there were ups and many downs. Thank God we are still standing.

My only assurance is God's character. He loves my children more than I do. He has thoughts of peace and not evil for them to give them a future and a hope (that's Jeremiah 29:11).

Teacher's Appreciation week was cut short this year due to rain and floods in our areas. We appreciate all school staff for all the work they do.

Like many people, I've had my moments where I struggled with different adult personalities in the kids' school. I quickly remembered the God I serve and His guidelines for my life. He tells me to love and pray. He has all the wisdom I need to face every difficult situation. I'm grateful for that.

Every year, my kids learn what it means to make friends and to be a friend. This year, we watched them overcome a lot in this area. My prayer all year was that they remember who they are in Christ. I also reminded them of all the great friends they have in their lives. We all grew in the area of friendship this school year.

We have major tests coming up here in TX and we will quickly wrap up the school year.

My confession as we close this school year is this:

"And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,

And establish the work of our hands for us;

Yes, establish the work of our hands." 

Psalm 90:17 (NKJV)

I commend all the parents who are dedicated to nurturing and supporting their children. At the end of the day, I can care less about awards. My greatest joy as a parent is that my children's names are written in heaven.

One day, knowledge will pass away. When I stand in front of God (all of us will), I want to know that I did all I could as God encourages me to do.

The world's guidelines of success are clear and they are leading people somewhere. I'm sticking with the biblical view. I'm determined to know the God of the Bible and follow what He says.

The school year is almost over. We come this far by faith, leaning on the Lord Jesus. Trusting in His holy word. He will not fail us.

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No awards needed

It is award season.
While I rejoice with those who rejoice, I think about the kids who don't get anything.

They do not fit the definition of "gifted and talented."
As a matter of fact, they don't even bother to take that test.

They go to school, give their best and don't get any special recognition. Okay, maybe the attendance one.

Today, I want to recognize you for your wise investment in your child.

You are the parent who loves relentlessly.
You nurture and help.
You encourage and cheer them on.
You know that at the end of the day, the only award that matters is the love you store in their hearts.

What really matters is the unconditional way you give it.

So what if they don't make it to the honor roll again?

You are the one who carries the honor of being a parent.

Because of your commitment to loving your child well, they get to succeed in what really matters.

So, let them be the type of child who is free to be themselves.

Let them be children who enjoy a childhood free from pressure to perform.

Let them feel what being truly loved means, no matter if their performance can't be written in history books.

Here's to the people like me, who were never recognized in public because of their academic talents.

Here's to parents like mine, who loved, nurtured and encouraged me to be the best I could be.

In the end, I believed them. Now I get to spread that same message to my children.

What message? You are loved for who you are. God made you special and I treasure you daily, no awards needed.

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App Rupture Part 2

Last week, we talked about the need to get our faces out of our phones. Here's the fact: we can all improve in that area. Let me be transparent and tell you how I'm doing.

Three weeks ago I got a good measure of my usage (yikes!). Two weeks ago, my usage decreased 4 percent. Last week, my usage was down 5 percent. I also noticed that my work, business and personal productivity increased. My goal is to get my usage down to 2 percent by the end of the year.

Way before IOS and Droid software engineers made their time measuring apps public, the Holy Spirit convicted me of my need to be free from such bondage. I knew I couldn't quit cold turkey so I set the goal of improving in that area.

God was the initiator. He touched my heart. What the software engineers did was help me measure my progress in the changes I was willing to make. Nothing more, nothing less.

The first step always needs to take precedence in the heart. The heart is the fertile soil where lasting change can happen. Your heart’s submission to God’s plan will determine whether your change of habits can last.

An app can't set you free from your phone addiction. Let’s think about an addiction to potato chips for example. If you have an addiction to chips, you won't be set free from it by staring at advertisements of new flavors of chips. You will not cure your addiction by buying magazines filled with cute photos of chips from 150 countries in the world. Limiting your exposure to images, ads and the taste of chips will help you overcome your addiction.

Likewise, an app cannot set you free from your phone addiction. God can because He has the correct strategy for you. He always starts His work in the heart. His freedom is lasting and it will make you a better person.

I don't think God wants us to make a mass exit from the digital world. I do believe He doesn't want us to be enslaved by it.

Let me tell you a secret. I work with brilliant computer scientists. Their areas of research have applications in many facets of life, including the apps you and I use daily. I often ask them about their phone usage. They tell me that they are not bound by the lure of their phones because of the priorities they have set for their lives.

These scientist are high achievers. Some are world renowned in their areas of expertise. Friend, you and I can't accomplish our priorities if we are easily distracted.

You and I are experts in our “fields.” I'm a field expert in being my Zeke’s wife. I'm an expert in mothering my sweet children. I’m an expert in my own health and fitness. As a professional, I'm an expert in marketing and communications. In the light of eternity, God will hold me responsible for my areas of expertise. I can’t be distracted multiple hours a day because of phone addiction.

I don't want God to find me staring at my phone while I could be growing in my expertise.

Here’s a review:

Monitor your heart. The work starts in the heart. Search your heart and ask God to direct your time.
Measure your current phone usage. You can't manage what you won't measure.
Manage your phone usage. You’re not an ER Doctor on call. You don't need your phone as much as you think you do. Get your priorities straight. Turn off those needless alerts. Get some freedom step by step.
Meditate on your Priorities. When I think about my family, I find great reason to unplug from the needless use of my phone. I also think about the repercussions of my behavior. What am I teaching my children about technology and relationships by my current example? I want to exemplify freedom. I can only do that if I walk in freedom.

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Celebrating Grandparents Day when they live out of Town

Today was Grandparents Day at the kids school. Out of all days we celebrate, this one is quite sad when you don't have family nearby. One of my friends on Facebook was sharing recently how sad her son was because his grandparents were not going to be able to be at Grandparents day. I sent her virtual hugs and the affirmation that I can totally understand. 

In the past, when the kids were too little we just didn't do anything about it. When they grew up a bit more, we asked different friends to step in and celebrate this day with the kids. We are always thankful to God for people who love us like family and step in to love on the kids. I'm always reminded of Matthew 19:29 when God blesses us with grandparents for the kids. It says, "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life." 

When my first one was born, our family was not in town, so God sent me Roma to walk up and down the hospital hallway with me, pray for me and hold Zion before I did (the anesthesia was strong, I couldn't feel my arms). I see her as my "hundredfold." God has sent many others and I praise God for these awesome servants of His. 

This year, I decided to go to Grandparents' Day myself because since I went back to work and school's been back (for the second time), I haven't been to the school yet. I somehow, had the brilliant idea to call my mom from the school's cafeteria so the kids could talk to her. She was available and so happy to hear from her grandkids! Win win! 

I want to send some special encouragement to my friends out there whose parents live far away from them. Special school celebrations can be tough but with God's help we can creatively enjoy them with our sweet kids. 

Today is the first day of Fall and while it is hot as summer, I have decorated the house to celebrate. Next time I will share our favorite Fall traditions here at the Listenbee Household. 

Have an amazing day my friend!

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School Year: the good and the not so good

This academic year was epic. I have nothing but thanksgiving to God for blessing the kids in their schools. This year I continued my habit of praying daily with the kids for teachers, staff and classmates. 180 days of prayers to a God who sees and answers is very powerful! 

The kids' year - all my kids had a blessed year. I have three very individually unique children. I basically took a course on human behavior,  intercession and plain ole perseverance. My children had their unique set of challenges this year. God helped us overcome them all. I basically do not know what I'd do without Him and the wisdom I find in the Bible. We are all eager to enjoy this summer to the fullest and to create more memories at "Camp Listenbee." Let me tell you what worked and what didn't work this school year: 

What worked: 

• Praying on the way to school - it has become a tradition and I find it to be a great way to know what's in the kids' hearts. You'd think that praying before school makes it for a perfect start of the day, every day right? Not because my own humanity was involved. I had to take a deep breath and remember to encourage, no matter what. I also learned that rushing to get the kids to school should be avoided if possible. 

• Preparation - The way of peace in the morning also came through preparation. If I had clothes, lunch and everything else ready the night before, it made it for an easier morning. I also tried to prepare for the week as far as the kids' clothes. That was a great time saver! I didn't braid the girls' hair every week but when I did, that saved a lot of time in the morning. I learned that preparation is the key to a successful morning. If I had important papers to send to school, I tried to take care of them the day the kids brought the papers home. 

What didn't work:

• Losing my peace of mind -  Schools have improved their communication strategy with the use of Apps. The Apps are great but they do not tell the whole story. I lost my peace of mind a lot before I learned to slow down and actually hear what my kids were saying. I also kept in touch with teachers to get a whole picture of what was happening in the classroom. Basically, I'd get really worried about a kid 'losing points' for example. Come to find out, there's such thing as everyone gets punished on a certain day of the week and/or because the whole class suffered the consequences that a few students caused. This whole thing led us to a teaching moment. We taught the kids to stick with doing what is right, no matter the consequences. 

• Dairy - I'm not anti-dairy, I actually love cheese but cheese does not love me. It turns out one of my kids shares my 'stay away from dairy' genes. I had switched to Almond Milk a few years ago but this school year we went dairy-free in one lunchbox. I packed a lot of dinner leftovers. It turned out to be a good change. 

I took a Bible College Class in the Spring. I wrote a blog post about it here. I am very thankful for the opportunity and I am still enjoying all the new information I learned. I am still thinking about going back to get a PhD in Communications at some point. My requirements are: it needs to work for my family and I don't want to pay for it. I believe in scholarships, fellowships, etc. We will see! 

The latest lesson I learned from this academic year was to adjust my expectations. I started the school years with some high expectations. The interesting thing about life is that we have to learn to adjust accordingly. If we don't, we just walk about frumpy all the time. I'm not the best about adjusting to frustrations all the time. Still, I don't want to walk around frumpy so I have been practicing quite a bit of acceptance. It's quite freeing. 

This year I spent 75 hours in carpool. That's correct, those 20 minutes or so a day add up if you multiply them by 180. I decided to take the Zig Ziglar approach and make that my 'automobile university.' I used those 75 hours to read and to keep in touch with loved ones. I am determined to use every little bit of time to add something good to my brain. Numbing the mind is just not good over all. How would you invest 75 hours my friend?

I hope you had a good academic year. Whether you had it or not, I pray you have an amazing, joy-filled summer. Congratulations to us all, we made it through another school year! 

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Back to College: 5 lessons

I took a 12-year break from school (as in "I have my Masters Degree") and I recently completed 12 weeks of a Bible College class. Here’s what I learned.

I like school - I enjoyed going to school simply because my goal is always to finish what I start. My goal for going back was to get the knowledge in Bible Study Methods. I was blessed to do so and I enjoyed the whole process. I do not intent to continue in a degree program, I was there really just for that one class. I conveniently labeled myself “one and done” for that reason.

Take your own snacks - coffee wasn’t that expensive at college but every little bit adds up. I brewed my own coffee, put it in a good thermos and took it to class with me. I also learned that my own trail mix tastes amazing. One week I took popcorn. I think I saved at least $50 by packing my own coffee and snacks.

Make dinner ahead of time - I heard that wives and mothers went to college and grad school but this was my first time experiencing it. It turns out that the household chores still need to be done for 12 weeks. I quickly learned that planning and making dinner helps everyone to have a better night. I often made dinner in the morning so that when we all went back home the food was ready to go.

Don’t procrastinate - I’m that student that enjoys getting her work done without procrastinating. I also like to focus with the help of silence. Haha! Silence and kids do not go together. In order to get my work done I had to start on it 6 days before it was due. I know, it was a lot of work but I made it work. Procrastination was not a choice for me so I did what I had to do in order to get homework done.

Count on God’s faithfulness - other than the methods I learned in class, my biggest takeaway is that if God calls you He’ll fully equip you. 12 years ago all I had to do was go to class (well, it was truly never that simple). This time around I was caring for my family in the process. I also had to come up with childcare for the kids while I took the class. I nearly had ulcers over this. I prayed about it and I asked a few people if they’d help. They gave me an emphatic no. Asking people for help can be embarrassing but I’ve learned to get over it and move on to the next option. I casually told a friend that I was concerned about childcare and she told me to check out a daycare in the neighborhood. I had thought about that place but our conversation further pushed me to call them. It turns out that the open door I was looking for was 7 minutes away from my house. I wish that childcare was the only barrier I faced. Some weeks it was challenging to make the budget work so my husband helped with the kids and in the very last week my friend Martha kept my little one so I could take my final exam. I learned these past 12 weeks that if God calls me to do something He will fully equip me to accomplish that task.

I’m also thankful to God for the Kelly family who gave me a scholarship to attend this class. I pray that God will bless them for believing in me and investing in me.

I’m not planning on going back to school again any time soon unless I know God is calling me and funding the whole thing. If He calls me, I am sure He will equip me to fulfill that call.

I hope that this story encourages you to believe God's open doors for you. It's never easy but trust me, if He's calling you He will fully equip you and grow your belief in Him through the process.

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School after 12 years

12 years. That's how long I haven't been enrolled in school. I was accepted back to College and I was blessed with a scholarship to take Bible Study Methods. I am so happy about it!
I had been thinking about getting my PhD but the circumstances had to be perfect. God knows what He is doing and one class is exactly what I can handle at this time and season.

I forgot how much I enjoyed school. Learning something I am interested in really helps too. The world around me is much different than it was 12 years ago: I am blessed with a husband and 3 kids. My priorities are much different and I am blessed for it.

I didn't have a family when I was in school many moons ago but that didn't make my journey easy. I had to pray, study and trust God day by day. He proved Himself faithful and good beyond measure. I will carry the testimony of His faithfulness with me forever. When my husband came into my life, I was at the very end of a hard earned high education journey.

I highly admire mothers who go to school full time while working and taking care of their families. I have friends at church who do it with so much grace. They tell you it is hard but you can't tell by the smile and the faith in their countenance.

I quickly realized that I needed to be extra organized on the day I have class. I asked my husband to cook on week one (my husband can cook!) and on week two I got smart so I cooked ahead. When we all got home, dinner was ready extra quick. I am forever grateful that I got most of my higher ed done before becoming a wife and mother. I also know God gives grace to those who do not have this option in life. He gives strength to those that need to go back for more education.

When I'm at school, I try to be fully there. I am honestly interested in Bible Study Methods and my preparation makes sure that I am at ease about my family and home life.

I'm one of those persons who goes to school strictly with the goal of learning. If I make friends is a bonus. My college is a place where most people work, so I have the impression that most people have the same goal as myself.

It's been tough trying to to explain to others why I am taking such class. Most people who take Photography classes want to be photographers. My explanation is not that easy. I know I don't want to be a Bible scholar. I simply love the Bible and someone in my life saw the gift of God in me and decided to invest in me as the next generation of women of the Word.

I've always been surrounded by people who encourage me to know the Bible better. I've been taking small steps towards that goal. I've also known that Communication is my thing so I got my degrees and all my training in that area. I've also known that Jesus is my Lord and Savior and in order to know Him better, I must know the Bible. I agree that most people would take Bible Study Methods to be teachers, missionaries, Christian counselors, etc.

I am taking the class because I love God and I want to know Him better through the Bible. I believe that if I can know Him better, I can explain faith concepts better. I also hope to take the class as an act of being wide open to the people God is sending me to. He might not be sending me in the physical form (although I've been saying 'here I am Lord, send me to Italy' for a long time. Haha!) but my I know He wants to continue to use my written words. My words can travel the world and get in front of eyes I may never see. I want my words to have weight and authority, therefore, I am taking this class.

I am extra busy because I am at school but it's fruitful busy. I need to be extra organized but I am glad about that too. I appreciate your prayers as I continue my school journey, 12 years later.

P.S.: It also took me 2 weeks to figure out my best bet is to bring my snacks from home. I found two Starbucks on my way but the amount of car maneuver I have to do is not worth the effort. It's also cheaper to bring my coffee and snacks from home. I know, so me to save the dinero. Ha!

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10 Year Round Prayers for Teachers

We all have teachers in our lives. Whether you know one or you are one, we need to pray for those who teach. Here are 10 prayers you and I can pray year round: 

Health - Lord, I pray that you keep my child’s teacher in perfect health. I pray that you heal their body of anything that might be stopping her from living her life to the fullest. I pray that Ms _______ will enjoy a healthy mind and a renewed spirit as she teaches today. I pray that you heal her emotions and that you allow her to be fully present in the classroom as she passes on knowledge. I believe you are a healer and I believe you can heal Ms________ and keep her healthy in Jesus’ name. (Exodus 15:26)

Difficult relationships - Lord Jesus, we are all challenged with difficult relationships at some point in our lives. We know that those unsolved issues can affect every area of our lives. I pray that you give Ms__________ wisdom to discern the way of peace when it comes to the difficult relationships in her life. I pray that love will be the answer and that reconciliation will be possible. I pray this in Jesus’ name. (Romans 12:18)

Wisdom in challenges - Jesus, as Ms. ________ has a challenging meeting today, I pray for your wisdom. Use her words as healing and restoration tool. I pray that her heart will be clear and you will give her favor to accomplish the task she has in front of her. I pray that she will be at peace so that what comes out of her will be peace. I pray for resolution and for justice because you are a God of justice. We trust that you have the best in mind, in Jesus’ name. (Psalm 5:12)

Perseverance - Jesus, perseverance is much needed in my child’s school today. I pray that the challenges faced by my child’s teacher can produce perseverance. Perseverance to teach in a way that every child can reach their God given potential. I pray that perseverance develops Ms_____’s character and that character brings out hope. Thank you God for hearing my prayer in Jesus’ name. (Romans 5:3)

Anxiety - Lord your word says that anxiety in the heart of men and women cause depression, but a good word makes it glad. I pray that a good word will come to Ms______’s ear today. Use me to pour out words of encouragement and thanksgiving. I pray that Ms______ will find in You, relief from anxiety because you care for her. I pray that she will rest in your care with complete trust that you are able, in Jesus’ name, Amen. (Proverbs 12:25)

Thanksgiving - Thank you Lord for Ms_______. Thank you for choosing her as my child’s teacher this year. Thank you for making her and creating her for such a time as this. Thank you for her positive influence in my child. Thank you for empowering her with the gift of teaching. Thank you for her qualities and her God given integrity. I thank you Lord for being good and for always caring for Ms______, in Jesus’ name. (1 Thes. 5:18)

Direction - Lord I pray for Godly direction for Ms___________. Every day, we all are faced with difficult decisions. We say as in times of old “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you .” Give Ms ________ direction today and always, in Jesus’ name. (2 Chronicles 20:12)

The willingness to improve - Dear Jesus, every school requires teachers to have continuing education. I pray that Ms _________ will go beyond the requirements to achieve a true willingness to improve in her call as a teacher. We know that as she commits her plans to You, her plans will be established.  (Proverbs 16:3)

The clarity to see you make a difference - Jesus, I pray that today you open Ms _______’s eyes to see that the seeds she’s planting in her student’s lives are bearing fruit. We know that this fruit is not instant but it is imminent. Today I pray for the clarity of vision that she is making a lasting difference in every student she teaches this year. We are thankful to you for that divine insight Lord Jesus. In your name I pray, Amen. (Ephesians 1:18)

Hope - Jesus, we pray that today, you will be the source of Ms_______’s hope. I pray that this hope will bring joy and encouragement that You and You alone can handle anything that concerns her. I call for hope to arise in Ms_____’s heart and mind today, in Jesus’ name, Amen! (Psalm 39:7)

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Happy First Day of...

Hey mom and dad, you are sending your kid to school (or you are the school yourself), right? Here's what you need to know: 

• You're loved - yes! It is about you! God loves you and He wants you to know that. You can't give what you don't have, so God wants you to feel incredibly loved today as you love on your little ones. 

• Someone has been there - many people have done what you are doing. Find comfort in the fact that God created a community of friends so we do not have to stand alone. There's always someone out there who can relate to your situation. Rock on and know that every emotion you are feeling is accounted for and every feeling is valid. We need community for affirmation, comfort and encouragement. 

• God is in control of the unknown - and He is the only one who knows how to do deal with the unknown. A lot of us are afraid of the unknown and that makes us human. God is not afraid of it (or of anything else for that matter!) because He is in control. If fear is paralyzing you, get in touch with God through the Bible, prayer and a faithful friend. God knows what you are going through and He cares. He wants to give you His peace and assurance. Don't let fear paralyze you, get a hold of God. 

• Enjoy today - I'm not sure if my kids will remember their every "first day of ...." event. What I know for sure is that they will sense my inner peace or inner turmoil. Even though I might be nervous, excited managing the array of feelings that accompany this day, I will remember to enjoy today. Today is a gift from God. I can smile with thankfulness today! I can take a deep breath and be thankful for the gift of motherhood. I can reminisce about the wonderful summer we just had. I can enjoy today and as I enjoy it, I rejoice in this day God has given me. 

I know some of you sent your kids to school already and we're just late to the party. If your kid(s) is(are) starting school today, remember that you need to be congratulated. So, congratulations!


My goodness, you kept them alive for another summer! You made that entire summer plan (or lack thereof) happen. That's a huge deal and I wish we could put that our my resume friends! 

The eternal truth you must remember is that God loves you, someone on earth understands, God is in control of the unknown and you must enjoy the gift of today. Have a great "first day of...!"

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Back to School: Focused Volunteering

Volunteering opportunities abound with the school year starting soon. Different organizations recruit volunteers in different ways. Here’s what never changes: someone, somewhere needs your valuable time.

I believe in what I call Focused Volunteering. You may be thinking, “well Cintia, what is it?” I’m glad you asked. Focused Volunteering is the act of using your specific skill set and your time limitations to make the maximum impact in a particular environment.

Last time I told you to ask these 5 questions before volunteering.

This time I’m asking you to only volunteer if the job falls in the Focused Volunteering category.

Here’s what you need to do in order to practice Focused Volunteering:

Know your skill set - You must know what your strengths are. I’m not good at setting up chairs because putting things in order is not my passion. I can’t be a good volunteer for setting a classroom up because of that simple fact. I’m not good at baking cookies because for years my kids thought that burned cookies were really chocolate ones (ops!). I am good in the area of communications. I can write a mean press release and I am excellent at writing, teaching and executing communication strategies. Because I know my skill set, I can offer more value to the organization I choose to help through Focused Volunteering.

Know your time limitations - Some people have 20 hours a week to volunteer. I’m not one of them. Through Focused Volunteering, the time I do give will be well spent. Number one because it will be used in my unique skill set. Number two because I won’t be frustrated due to the obligation of filling time with something I’m not passionate about. If you can be honest with yourself about the time you have available to volunteer, you can make a greater impact in your organization of choice. Know your limits and verbalize them before agreeing to volunteer. Don't agree to hours of volunteer work if it will take away your peace and joy. Agree to what you can do well and know exactly how much time you can commit to Focused Volunteering.

Know your “bad yes” triggers - for every “yes” out there, there is a Good Yes and a Bad Yes. The Good Yes comes from someone who knows their skill set and their time limit. The Bad Yes comes from someone who is easily persuaded to volunteer through triggers such as:

• Social pressure - in some circles, volunteering in great volumes is like wearing a trophy. The behind the scenes tough, looks chaotic and frazzled all the time.
• Manipulation - be alert because this one because may come from outside or inner sources. For example, you may think, “well, if I don’t volunteer, no one will and the organization (and the world) will come to an end. I MUST SAVE THE WORLD!” You and I know this is not true. The fact is, if you don't do it all, someone with that skill set will likely show up. If they don't, someone with great potential will finally get to develop their leadership skills. Manipulation may also come from outside sources who are so badly trying to fill a position so they will do anything just to get officers in place. True service comes from a willing heart, free from guilt and filled with the joy of giving so beware of being manipulated into a position.

We have all been guilted into doing something. Know your triggers and have a game plan. If you know you can’t say “no” develop the habit of asking the following question: “can I think about it for 24 hours?” Trust me, there isn’t a sensible person that will not say No to this. Use those 24 hours to meditate on how that volunteering position will impact your life. Ask yourself, "is this my skill set or an area that will allow me to grow and thrive?" Look in your calendar and see if you can fit that position there but with plenty time to do it justice. Don't stick volunteering there if you will be stretched thin. If you find that that you can dedicate yourself fully to that volunteer position, go ahead and answer my 5 questions about volunteering. Much thought needs to go into volunteering, that's why some might not want you to ask yourself "can I think about it for 24 hours?" Committing to a position should be done with thought, joy and care, always.

I hope you give Focused Volunteering a try this Fall. I know this concept will be beneficial to you, your family and the wonderful organizations you serve.

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The Business of Change

The kids were so cheerful this morning! It was another first day of school. Thank you Jesus, they are indeed growing up and learning their way through this world. My husband posted this photo and I was reminded (again) on how quickly things change.

Growing up and getting smarter by the second!

We took the top photo this morning, the bottom was 3 years ago. I had just became the expert in mixing nap schedules with preschool. I was changing multiple diapers and the intensity of parenting pre-schoolers was the new thing for us.

Today I am reminded by my kids on how flexible they are to change. Change is a part of life and they embrace it with joy as it comes. Kids grow and change immensely all the time. I am yet to hear one of them complain about it. What I do hear are the giggles getting louder, the playing, more energetic. 

Kids do well with this Business of Change. I see that they use change as a means to maturity, improvement and to get where they need to go in life. If I could only think like this way every time I'm faced with change! 

I often forget that what changes today will probably change later. My assurance is in the stability of God's Words and God's Ways. When it comes to parenting challenges, I'm quick to remember that many parents have dealt with the challenges I have today. All I need to do is to reach out. 

It's comforting to know that there are others out there challenged by this business of change. This common bond qualifies and enforces our humanity. 

This is probably not what you expected for a first day of school post but this business of change is really filling my heart right now. I'm thankful for the stability I find in God. I'm thankful for an amazing husband who helps me navigate life so well. I am thankful for friends who understand, love and care. 

I don't know how you navigate this business of change my friend. If you think you suck at it, join the club. If you've done well, reach out and help someone. One thing is for sure, change is part of life and life is always changing. 

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Best Social Media Practices for Teachers

Social Media can be a teacher's best friend. Today, I want to encourage educators who want to be relevant online. Teachers should keep their educator's hat on when engaging with others online. This strategy can lead to big opportunities.

Consider these 3 steps I call "Teacher's Digital Strategy."

1 • Provide Enrichment - Your readers or viewers should learn something after reading/watching your posts. Even if you reposting content, ask yourself the question: "what am I teaching through this post or video?" Providing enrichment online is a way of extending the reach of your resume. Never use social media casually, remember that you are always teaching and you should always provide value to your digital circle. 

2 • Think Longevity - whatever you put in digital form will live forever. Be wise in choosing what you post because digital content lives forever. Whether you tweet, share on Facebook or pin on Pinterest, your content will be out there permanently. If you are providing enrichment every time, you will be fine. If you are venting and may repent later, refrain from publishing it. Remember you consent to every content you post. 

3 • Build your Resume - It is possible (and wise) to build your resume through strategic social media use. Your blog posts can make a way to a greater readership in an Education magazine you respect. Your Facebook Live talks can lead you to a keynote speaker gig (this actually happened to me). Your Pinterest boards can lead to partnership with companies you've grown to love and respect. It is wise to use your social media channels with a goal in mind so think goals before you post.

Part of your digital strategy as an educator should include LinkedIn. Update your profile and your resume. Add new certifications and awards. Make yourself digitally relevant, accessible and marketable. When opportunity knocks, you want to be ready to open the digital door.

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Sunday Seven

Welcome to Back to School Week at SimplyCintia.com! My goal is to encourage you to have an amazing experience with your family. Today I want to talk to you about 7 habits that make our school year successful.

1 • No Screens on School Nights - I started this habit last year and it really helped us. I post a note in the TV and the kids know they have to wait till Friday after school to watch TV. The first noticeable change was in my transition time. Changing activities was easy because they were no longer glued to the TV. It also encouraged them to use their imagination and find other ways to play. I believe that this is a good habit that will benefit them in the future. If I don’t have to break this bad habit in the future, I’m winning.

2 • Eat a good breakfast - I insist that the kids eat what I consider a good breakfast before going to school. We are oatmeal people, so that’s what we eat most of the time. Kids concentrate better at school when they eat well in the morning. I also believe that a good breakfast provides you with a great start to your day. I have the option of letting the kids eat at school but I don’t trust them to be focused to start and finish their breakfast before going to class. I’m that mom that needs to see an empty bowl.

3 • Pray - we have the habit of praying on the way to school. We thank God for another day and we ask that He surrounds their school with His protection. We pray for each teacher by name. If we know that a teacher or classmate is sick, we pray for healing. I also pray that the kids will be filled with God’s peace during that day. I’m the last one to pray so I bless my children in Jesus’ name, I tell them I love them and off they go to their classes. If I ever forget to pray, they are quick to remind me, which is neat.

4 • Preparedness - I try to get outfits, shoes, homework and everything ready so that our mornings are not stressful. I understand that some things need to be done in the morning but I truly believe that “by failing to prepare you are preparing to fail.” A lot of the last minute stress can be solved by preparing ahead of time. It’s important to find a system of preparation that works for your family. This year my system includes a specific place for backpacks and lunch bags the kids can easily grab and go. It also included labeling their drawers so they can grab their own outfits (except for my youngest one who doesn’t know the difference between pajamas and school clothes). Take some time to find what works for your family.

5 • Stress-Free Homework - Last year I learned that homework time can be effective when it’s stress-free. I can’t really multitask during homework time. I can’t drag our study time for hours. I learned that it is wise to remove any stress from that time so that we can get through it. One of things I didn’t expect by being a "baby buncher" (having kids back to back) is that when it’s homework time, everybody wants my attention and that can be overwhelming. I learned to give the younger siblings an interesting activity to do while the older sibling did homework. I also learned how to pass the baton to my husband when I saw that I didn’t have what it takes. One great thing I did was to listen to my kids’ school director talk about the best environment for homework. It was amazing to learn how small changes made the process easier.

6 • Sleep Well - I enforce sleep times because resting makes a child’s life better. We make sure they get to bed at a decent time daily and we let them stay up later on weekends just because they can rest during the day. Investing on sleep is one of the best things we can do for our children and for ourselves. Rest is one thing you can’t put on a pill so it needs to happen daily. Find out how many hours of sleep your child is supposed to sleep and start that transition to your school year schedule.

7 • Gratitude - How exactly will the habit of gratitude make your school year successful? Well, the Bible is filled with encouragement in that area. We can agree that Grateful people are a joy to be around. I want the benefits of Gratitude in my life. I also want my children to be grateful in word but especially in deed. I get to model Gratitude to my children this school year. I have always been thankful to the wonderful early childhood professionals who cared for my kids and this is a good habit I want to continue this school year. I’m not being grateful to get something back from them but because I get to represent the God I worship when I show Gratitude in all circumstances.

• What are the good habits that make your school year successful?  

TOMORROW: 5 Questions to Ask before agreeing (or not) to Volunteer.

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Back to School Week!

School is back for a lot of you but for others it is still going to start. Read my blog this week for some inspiration and motivation! Here's what I have planned. 

Sunday • 7 Habits for a Successful School Year

Monday • 5 Questions to ask Before you Volunteer

Tuesday •  Social Media for Teachers (Best Practices)

Wednesday • Kindergarten without Fear

Thursday • Chevron Houston Marathon Week 8 (How to Fit Training in your Work Schedule)

Friday • How to Pray for the Student you Love

See you back here this week my friend!

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Sunday Seven

We will start school in a few weeks and I thought I'd share prayers you and I can pray for our children's teachers. At this time I don't know who their teachers are but we have been praying about the school year already. It does not hurt to start praying for the people responsible for our dear children's education. If you are a homeschooler, pray these prayers for yourself. Here are 7 prayers for educators. 

1 • Peace - God, I pray that my children’s teachers will have a peaceful mind, heart and spirit. Your word says in Isaiah 26:3 (ESV) “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” I pray for perfect peace daily.

2 • Diligence - I pray that my children’s teachers will work diligently in all they do. Your word says “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV) I pray that they will have a divine sense of purpose about their teaching.

3 • Patience - “With patience a ruler may be persuaded, and a soft tongue will break a bone.” Proverbs 25:15 (ESV) God, I pray that my children’s teacher will display the fruit of the Spirit of patience with all his or her students as well as coworkers and administrators. I pray that his or her life will be marked by the faithful practice of patience.

4 • Creativity - God, I pray that my child’s teacher will be creative. Your word in Genesis 1 (ESV) says “In the beginning God created...” I pray that my child’s teacher will embrace the creativity You have given them and that such creativity will bear fruit (Proverbs 22:29).

5 • Humor - God, I pray that my children’s teacher will have humor that comes from a joyful heart. Your word says that “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22 (ESV) I pray that joy will be displayed from the inside out.

6 • Wisdom - God, I pray that my children’s teachers will have wisdom. I pray that they will get wisdom and insight. Proverbs 4:5-7 (ESV)

7 • Love - God, I pray that my children’s teachers will have sincere love for all students. Romans 12:9 (ESV)

I throw a salvation prayer when I know the person does not know the Lord Jesus Christ. I can’t think of a greater blessing in a person’s life! So, do you pray for your children's teachers? If you don't, I invited you to do so. Our family has a habit of praying for teachers and we let them know that we are praying God's blessings in their lives. God hears and answers prayers!

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