Every Parent needs a Holiday

Every parent (especially stay at home ones) need a real holiday. One without the kids. I know there are those reading this who almost choked but I think it's true. No matter how much of your world the children are you need a genuine holiday. I have good reasons for saying this. 

1. Rest. Rest is so important. No matter how much you love the kids you need to put something into yourself in order to give something to others. Even the bible says so. Love others as you love yourself. See you have to love yourself. Get some rest. 

2. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. I don't care how angelic you children are and how much of a sati you are the truth is sometimes you can't see straight if your all consumed. Sometimes that little break gives you perspective. 

3. It can give you the strength to make the next hurdle. Sometimes a well time break gives you the opportunity to facethe  challenges of parenting head on no fear. A breath of fresh air is sometimes needed to give perspective. 

So these are just my three basic reasons that parents need an actual holiday from their children. As I have just experienced this joy clearly I am shouting about it from the rooftop. You see a holiday with kids especially more than one little child can be work on a different soil. While it's a welcome break doesn't make it easy. A holiday alone every now and then doesn't hurt. Cuddles are always great upon return. 

Disappointed with Jesus

I did it. I achieved the impossible. I read a real book in a day. This milestone has not been achieved since the storms appeared in my life and took over. (My two loud children). 

The book in question is no ordinary book. The book is Disappointed with Jesus? By Gavin Calver. 

You may well ask how I managed to achieve the wonderfully impossible. Well there are a few key elements. 

1. I am on holiday in Turkey. By holiday I mean not even the children made it here. Just me and adults! 

2. I am on a boat with sleeping people. No music, no noise, no distractions. Just the gentle or not so gentle rocking of the boat. 

3. The book is a well written enjoyable engaging piece. I think everyone should read. It's not judgemental it's the honest telling of one mans story exploring the challenges of childhood and teens in church. It's engaging, simple to read which is here the skill really lies I think. But most of all it has inspired me as a parent and as a youth Pastor. 

This book was riveting and although I paused briefly to discuss sections with my hubby I always wanted to end the conversation and return to the book. 

I recommend everyone read this. It's not just for parents or youth workers/pastors. It's for anyone who attends church and believes in the gospel message and wants to see the kingdom expanding for him everyday. If that's you pick up the book. I am really excited and will have to buy a copy as this was on loan from the library. Look out highlighter pen, Instagram and Twitter here I come.