Success as Mothers By Thelma Wells

How we mothers pine for our children to be perfect! We want the best for them so much that we grieve when they’re not doing what we want, how we want. We all want our children to be the epitome of all that stands for good so that people can see they are wonderful and can count us successful as mothers.

The truth is that none of us are perfect moms. All of us have made some mistakes while raising our children. I certainly did. But we must accept that the decisions they make when they are old enough to decide for themselves are their decisions. So how can we cope? Here are some suggestions:

* Remember, we’re all in process. You taught your children principles about how to live, but they will almost surely have to test those principles for themselves. Just like us, they will be able to learn some things only by making mistakes.

* Never stop loving and praying. You can’t do much about your children’s choices when they are grown, but you can accept them, love them, and pray for them.

* Let go. Remind yourself daily that God himself is their parent for eternity, and it is only through his grace and by his power that they can live holy lives.

Excerpted from A Grand New Day © 2008 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used with permission. All Rights Reserved.

Say It with Flowers (and Flowerpots)

Here's a fun, inexpensive way to brighten someone's day! Take a clay flowerpot and personalize it with paint from your craft store (or garage). Stamp it, stripe it, sponge it, sign it . . . let your inner artist take over. Then pop in a colorful plant—garden centers have plenty of beautiful, inexpensive options these days—and give it to someone you love. (Like your mom, maybe? Mother's Day is May 10.) You can probably complete the whole project for around $5. While you're at it, make one for yourself!

Especially for Group Leaders

NEW! Every month we get together with Women of Faith President Mary Graham, Group Leader Relations team members, and a special guest to share about A Grand New Day. They tell stories, answer questions, and share ideas on ways to reach out to more women. April's guest was Marilyn Meberg, with perspective on what to do when the roof caves in on our lives.

http://www.womenoffaith.com/bring-a-group/gl-call.asp

We'll be posting the next edition on May 12. Do you have a question you'd like to hear answered about bringing a group? Send it to groups@womenoffaith.com

Congrats, Sheila Walsh!

Sheila has written two delightful "Bedtime Bible" books for children. Each includes 84 favorite Bible stories from the International Children's Bible with a story, devotion, and a special prayer, promise, or praise. Sweet Dreams Princess is currently #1 on the CBA Children's Best Seller List and Good Night Warrior is not far behind at #7. We're proud of Sheila and thrilled these books are reaching so many precious children.

Speaking of Sheila . . . Last month we told you about the opportunity to submit a question for Sheila to answer online. We have since learned the link we posted was bad, which means you get another chance! If you have a question for Sheila about her new book, Let Go, submit it here: http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com/sheilawalsh