Monday, October 07, 2013

That is so YOU!


Rachel asked one evening if we could have oatmeal for breakfast one day soon and go to the lake to eat it. At first I expressed surprise since none of my children never eat oatmeal well, but I like it so was happy for an excuse to try again. The next morning, I woke up to 59 glorious degrees {rare here!} and decided to make it happen.

While the oatmeal was cooking I was trying to think how to yummy it up a little so they would like it. And, came up with this - they were not crazy about it {big surprise} but I loved it. I think they would've like it better if they'd eaten it while it was still warm! :)

Apple Butter Oatmeal
2 c. oats
4 c. water
Cook together until it is as cooked as you like it. Stir in:
1 small jelly jar {1 c.} apple butter
2/3 c. brown sugar

I let everyone put a little puff of whipped cream on theirs - but liked it better without!





Anyway, I've had several people say, "that is so YOU!" to me lately and it always makes me smile! It is nice to be known and to have friends say and mean that! And, it reminds me that my Mom is so good about reminding me to be true to myself.

Somewhere not long ago, I read something negative about that statement - be true to yourself. And, I cannot remember where or what the point really was. I'm sure there is a way to turn that negatively. But you know what? It can be full of truth and beauty too. And, that has been my experience with it. As a people-pleaser, it can be hard to say no to a scheduling option that just isn't a good fit or any number of scenarios, but when I do stick with what God is putting on my heart as best for me or my family I am always thankful and can rest in that.

It seems that when we are true to ourselves, we are allowing ourselves to be happy with who God made us to be. Not saying we don't need work, I have certainly not arrived - but I want to be content and enjoy being the person God made me to be.

I have tried to instill this in my children as well - in simple ways. Even by supporting their clothing likes/dislikes, style tastes and preferences. They are unique and individual and I don't want to force them to be a carbon copy of me but to allow them to be who God created them to be.

Be yourself today! Encourage someone else by recognizing something that is "so you!"