"My World Needs You!": I went to bed last night getting ready to attend 8:15am worship service this morning. Yes, I need every extra moment to mentally prepare to have myself and both girls dressed and at a specific location before 9am. For anyone who knows me knows that by nature, I'm not a morning person. So extra prayers are greatly appreciated, even more so when hubby is out of town and I have to do it alone. While the girls were sleeping, I laid out our clothes, packed travel bags, prepared a light breakfast (since we eat a full meal after service with family and friends), completed a few work assignments and set my alarm to wake up bright and early.
All of that preparation still didn't ease the anxiety of everything that could go wrong: arriving late, crossing over worshippers in the pew to be seated, Alana getting antsy, Ariah getting fussy, having to change a diaper in the middle of service, or having to explain to a toddler why it wasn't yet time to go. Though those thoughts are enough to make anyone on a rainy day decide to stay snuggled inside, I knew it was important to press my way and nurture the God spirit of my little angels. While getting dressed, Alana asked "Mommy, where are we going?" I replied, "We are getting ready to go to church." Alana responded, "Yay, it's time to praise the Lord!"
Well, if you're wondering…all of what I imagined happened and more! Turned out, it was Youth and Teens Day at church so service started at 8am instead of 8:15. We were away for summer travel for the past month so I clearly didn't get the memo. We had to wait for the usher to find seats for the three of us in a sanctuary built to accommodate 3,000 people. Of course, we had to say "excuse me" 5 times while crossing over to sit down in the pew. Alana grew tired of playing with her doll and became antsy. Ariah, initially loving the experience, was now hungry, had a soiled diaper and was fussy. I had to say "excuse me" 5 more times to cross back over and go to the restroom to change a diaper…in the middle of service. And worse, Ariah pulled the hair of the lady in front of us who with a chuckle responded, "I'm glad I didn't have on my wig today!" Even through all of that, we enjoyed worshipping together. As the Pastor gave the benediction, a medley began to play. Alana's eyes popped open wide and said, "Mommy, that sounds like Kirk Franklin!" The soloist began, "Show me your face. Fill up this space. My world needs you right now. My world needs you right now!" Alana exclaimed, "Mommy, that is Kirk Franklin! I LOVE this song. Kirk Franklin is my best friend!" As we sang the song together to close out service, I praised God with a grateful heart for giving me what I need to persevere daily, be what I need for my family, the many blessings He continues to bestow upon me and most importantly, my World- Him, my hubby and my girls!
We received a lot of complements on our mother-daughter outfits today. It felt good to know that so many people thought I possessed the talent to sew our dresses. I wish I could and I'm in total awe of those who can and do. These dresses are from the adorable Lilly Pulitzer collection purchased at Pink Sorbet. They are comfortable, easy and quick which makes a hectic life with two girls very convenient.
We are all stronger when we encourage each other to keep pushing! I would like to give away this adorable Lilly Pulitzer earring and bracelet set to a wife and mom who is working hard to take care of their family and achieve their goals. Please take a moment to shout out yourself or someone you know who would enjoy this set.
Until next time, make it great! Xoxo
Drawing:
• The winner will be selected and announced on Sunday, August the 20th
• The winner must be a follower of the Little Wife Big Life Facebook, Instagram and/or Twitter page(s) at the time of the drawing
• There is no cash alternative offered
• The winner will be drawn at random and will receive a Lilly Pulitzer earring and bracelet set (as shown in the image)
• The Winner will be asked to provide an email address and full postal address to receive the prize
Happy encouraging!
Hi Soror. Love your blog. Don’t usually follow blogs but I just knew when I saw yours that it would be inspiring, full of energy, and very well done. I was certainly not disappointed. I just did not realize it came with gifts…lol. I would like to nominate my daughter, Vanessa Burgess. She is a great Mom to my wonderful grandson.
Keep up the good work.
BTW, Thanks for reminding me of that song today. I was having a time trying to remember it. Gonna make it my praise song for this week.
Author
Hey Soror! You are so sweet! Thanks so much for the support and encouragement!! Entering Vanessa in the drawing. Please ask her to continue being great! Xoxo
Hi Soror Ashlye. Your blog is awesome and I have thoroughly enjoyed keeping up with your world travels by way of social media. I am a wife and mother of two as well and remember those days when I was super busy; the time will pass quickly so continue to savor every moment of the journey! Your “Little Wife Big Life” phrase seems so befitting for you and your family, definitely small in stature but amazingly full of energy and endurance. Those two little beauties are on their way to being very well-travelled young ladies. I am so proud of all the young wives and mothers who make it happen daily with a smile!
I would like to nominate a very dear friend, former co-worker, and soror, India Mack. India is an amazing mom of three, terrific wife, great daughter, skilled computer engineer/technology consultant, community servant, and so many other thngs. To know her story, witness her journey, and see her success is nothing short of inspiring and praiseworthy!
Ashlye keep up the great work, keep sharing, and keep smiling!
Author
You are the absolute sweetest!! I truly appreciate your encouraging words and support as I embark on this journey! Awesome nomination! I will add India’s name to the drawing! Xoxo
Hey Ashlye. I am loving your blog and I know how busy life can get with two kids. I have a 5 yr old and a 5 week old. It was nice seeing you at Countdown to kindergarten, you have such a lovely family. I am a wife, mom and teacher, so with the school year starting Monday, I would love this set to wear the first day of school. I love the colors!! My daughter starts kindergarten and will be teaching high school so both of us are wearing the same colors, PINK ? I currently follow you on twitter. Keep up the good work!!
Author
Hey there!!! Thanks so much for the love and support. I truly appreciate it! I’m sure your life is super full right now with a 5 yr old and 5 week old…all while getting ready to go back to work next week. Wishing you a great and successful school year! Thanks again!