I’ve been writing here for nearly 3 years now.
Wow, that’s a lot of words. I think Pete is grateful I have somewhere to spend a few of my daily thousand.
Writing here has been a lot like coming home.
And having you all over is like a grown up slumber party without the PJs or calories. But comfortable and delicious nonetheless.
Hi lovelies. I like you. A lot.
And after three years this little space is in need of a refresh. A deep spring cleaning. I’m working to make it homier and more comfortable for all of us but still featuring all the things you love about hanging out here.
Hopefully next week it will be ready for you all – with lots of comfy sofas and places to lounge around. There will be snacks and some party favors and women who are welcome to kick off their flip flops and just sit a while until they feel reminded again that they matter. That what they do matters.
You matter.
Beyond your routine. You. You matter.
And so if you want to write me a note in the comments letting me know what part about this place matters to you, I’d love to read it. That way it’s like you’ve come over and are helping me with the cleaning and dusting and furniture re-arranging.
Kindly bring brownies and hug me tight on your way in the door.
Love,
LJ
I just love your deep words of encouragement. I always leave more full than when I came. I look forward to see what your creativity comes up with for this space.
What matters to me most about your place is what you say! I don’t care if we’re sitting on a couch full of cookie crumbs or hanging out in the laundry room pairing socks. As long as I’m with you and can listen to you…that’s all that matters!
Oh now wouldn’t that be fun!
I love your honesty and that, after reading your posts, I often think “wow, she feels that way too”. It’s a “we are in this together” kind of place and I love that. :)
Yes, it’s your words, the way you encourage us with honesty and truth and beauty in the midst of messes. The way you shine a light on things that helps me to see it differently, to see it better and more clearly. And always pointing to the grace of God that we need and receive daily.
I agree with the comments above. Just reading this post makes feel welcomed and comfortable! But I am excited about seeing your new design…I’m sure it will be cozy and fun! Oh, and the pic with your little one waving, so cute!
If I tried to write out why this place matters to me, we would end up with an epistle… not a note, but I will attempt to make this brief. :D
1. Your posts on motherhood are very precious to me. I have read other blogs that touched on parenting, but none quite so heartfelt and ‘human’ as yours. I never fail to walk away encouraged, and sometimes the ‘wow factor’ is great that I totally forget to leave a comment, because I am so caught up in the glow.
2. I have always longed to travel beyond these shores, but have never done so – either because of ill-health, finances, or a little of both – and following your ‘escapades’ here allow me to experience it all vicariously. :D
3. I have a lifelong fascination with your home country. It began when my father led the JA delegation that formed a part of the UN Peacekeeping Corps during the turbulent 80s. I experienced the gamut of emotions while browsing his photos, and his stories made TV seem so dull and news reports sadly lacking. We are close enough in age – you and I – for me to feel that our teen years are somehow oddly intertwined….
I have never baked (or tasted) brownies, so I only brought me. I hope that’s acceptable? :) *shy wave from JA*
Ruth, I’m so moved by your words. Thank you so much for taking the time to share. I’ve been fretting about design and side bars and buttons and this reminder that really only words are what matter just helped me exhale. And I would have loved to have served on a UN Peacekeeping mission – what a story! Thank you for spending time with me here.
Sidebar? What side bar?! :D
YOU are a blessing.
{{{HUGS}}}
P.S. I should also tell you….. I lost my mom in January (just before my son turned 6). Thank you for having shared your heart in such a way that made it easier for me to process my grief. Blessings and peace to you and yours.
As a woman who recently lost her mother I naturally gravitate to those with similar experiences. Your open and honest sharing about your loss and your ever enduring feelings for your mom is inspiring. I also enjoy your thoughts on mindful parenting. Thank you from a faithful reader!
There is something about that smile that comes through loud and clear and warm and strong. Hospitality, its your gift. Each picture, each line, and each piece over here, it is a grin and an embrace. Thanks for doing what you do. Even one who is past the century mark and whose kids are growing up and have left the nest or are leaving soon can find joy here among your littles. And your joy is contagious on twitter when you squeeee. :)
I enjoy being able to just sit and be, even if I don’t have anything to say. I love hearing what you have to say, and I appreciate being reminded that a)I am not alone b)I am made this way for a reason and c)I matter. I also love finding new people here, meeting them, visiting them at their place and having them come by mine.
Mostly I am grateful to be here because you are here, your place fills my lungs with air, gets my eyes readjusted, get my brain working, and causes me to smile, and that’s because of you. So whatever your place it like, messy, clean, pretty, ugly, simple, complicated; as long as your in it, it doesn’t matter all that much.
Emilie. Emilie! Oh my you are good medicine for me today!
This place? Oh it’s magical here! You’ve invited us to laugh at those days that need some levity. You’ve created an environment where we can linger long and consider those ideas that simmer slowly, never forcing the answers but relishing the process of asking the questions. You’ve opened our hearts to living big – capturing five minutes at time of beauty and hope and life without editing.
Lisa-Jo, you’ve made a home where all hearts are welcome. We can come empty and leave filled with encouragement. We can come and share our joy with you knowing you will celebrate with us, even the tiniest moment of glee. We can come wondering or wandering and meet a friend who chases dreams and calms the frantic.
So it really won’t matter about fonts and colors and themes and designs … because you, Lisa-Jo, are who we love, no matter where you land.
xoxo with double chocolate brownies topped with real whipped cream!
Oh girls, I didn’t expect this to be such an emotional question or what effect your answers are having on me. Oh my heart. You sure know how to set a girl at ease and remind her that it’s never really mattered what color our drapes are, as long as we’re loving on one another.
Thank you.
Seriously.
I love reading your words on encouragement as a mama. I often have to slow down and let your words speak deap to my soul. I could rush through and miss the words giving life, but I try not to do that. You make me feel understood and completely safe in this world of motherhood that can feel so crazy and overwhelming. I read 15-20 blogs and yours is one I look forward to the most because of the life that pours out of your writing. Thank you!
I love coming here because I am tired of reading books/blogs that talk about a million different ways to raise your children. With 3 kids under 3, I really just need someone to be honest about motherhood. I need someone to encourage, not instruct me through the real life, rough days type stuff.
Me too, Alicia. Me too. I so get that. And it’s profoundly moving to me that you find that here. I don’t take it lightly. Thank you!
Your heart for women, your love for Jesus, your REAL shines through in every single post. When you say that everyone matters, I KNOW that you mean it because it seeps through your words. You give honor and glory to Jesus, while admitting your desperate need for Him.
It was your 5 minute Friday posts that encouraged me to just write and I will forever be grateful for how God has used you in my life.
And while we’re chatting- thank you! :)
I deeply appreciate your openness and realness in sharing your life and both the highs and lows of that life. I appreciate that I know that sometimes your house is dirty, your dishes aren’t done and your laundry is in baskets, because so is mine. I appreciate that you admit to striving for exceptional parenting and sometimes hitting the mark and really seeing the magic moments and sometimes not….and yelling and throwing crocs out the back door (I SO APPRICIATED your honesty and vulnerability there because oh…. yes…. me too). I like that you share the things you like and the people you like. And that you are a talented writer without being a super fancy writer. That you write like my friends and I talk. I appreciate that you tell me often that who I am matters, not what I do. I need to hear that and somehow you make me believe it. I appreciate that I feel like I can point my non believing friends here and that they’ll hear about Jesus, but not get slammed over the head or shamed or beaten down… that they’ll hear the best parts of Jesus. So I guess what I’m saying is, I like you an awful lot and I’m excited for what you’ve got coming up. And that you’re doing good work and making a difference in my life and a lot of other people’s lives. So thanks. A lot. :-)
Jen. Oh Jen. I *felt* that hug! Thank you. I’ve been kind of sad and worried a lot lately and my but your words are a gift. Thank YOU!
I love the Friday posts, so honest and open. But really, all your writing is!
Your smile :-)
Your words and your honesty are a balm to the soul on some days. Keep doing that. {but I also like the idea of a comfy sofa- because my flip flops are already kicked off when I’m hangin’ around here}
Hi LisaJo, thanks for inviting me over. btw I love your place!~!! How do you keep it so clean and tidy?? :-)
I subscribe to your blog and love it because it is an inspiration to me! My children have long since graduated high school and I have my first grandchild but I am constantly reading things on your blog that either make me miss my own parenting days or give great advice to young mothers like my daughter and other spiritual children in our church and our life.
You have given me some wonderful ideas on improving communication in marriage and with family also. Basically, I just like visiting with you friend. You are definitely a Barnabus to me – encouraging and uplifting. Now enough talking – lets go eat those brownies you were talking about!
Julie
Oh lovely Julie – thank you for the kind words and the brownies!
i love 5 min Fridays. and I would love some advice on how to grow my blog as an encouragement to moms and others.
Your beautiful honesty about how difficult and heartbreaking motherhood can be, while still offering us hope and encouragement.
And the way you’ve cultivated a most lovely, kind, God-loving ” 5 Minute Friday” community.
I have to say, coming in late I feel the big desire to say “ditto.” But that would not quite suffice. Instead let me say that I love the way you open your heart, allow lurkers to lurk, and at the same time open the door to community. I’m looking forward to seeing the changes!
I have just found this site. I love the honesty, that we are all doing the best we can, even if it sometimes doesn’t look like much. I like how you underscore everything with your reliance on God, that all good things come from Him. Thank you for the reminder that we are all in this together, no matter where we are at the moment.
Lisa Jo,
I purposed scrolled immediately to the bottom so as not to read anyone’s post and be persuaded or feel ridiculous for what I want to say. Friend, I would come here everyday if it were a white background and black print! You are my Barnabas!! You encourage women in the most beautiful way and you are unashamed to open yourself completely to help another woman who is deeply hurting. God has gifted you sweet Lisa Jo! What you have is not a blog, but a ministry! We out here are humbled and honored that you allow us into your life and that you would take time from your family for us. Praying for you and all you do so selflessly. Much love and thanks!
In Christ,
Lisa
And I hit submit too fast!! I also wanted to say how much it meant that your posts always point us to Jesus and that’s one of the first things that drew me here and also the theme that “I matter”. We don’t always get that much in life! Thank you. Want another white chocolate macadamia nut brownie while we finish the dishes?? :o)
Oh Lisa! Thank you for that loveliness! I’m going to savor these words a long time. And the white chocolate macadamia nut brownie yes and yes and a thousand times yes!!
I do the same thing Lisa, so as not to powder my original thoughts. You are right that she doesn’t have a a mere blog, but a ministry!
I love your realness. I love your openness. I love that in this world of women with the perfect homes, the perfect children, the spotless floors, and the well manicured fingernails… there are others out there, just like me… like you, who are real.
Who have real lives, and real loves, and real mess.
I love that we can reach out to others exactly where we are, in the middle of our mess… just as Jesus meets us where we are, in the middle of the same mess… and THAT makes our mess beautiful… beautiful and real.
Thank you… for inviting us in to see you, raw and real.
I’m a new reader, within the last few months. Your posts are warm and friendly and encouraging– like chicken soup. Thank you for your positivity and honesty and spirit. I love your take on motherhood. People can say what they want about “snark” on the internet, but you, and a handful of other websites I read, make me feel nothing but understanding and empowerment. Without the virtual community of moms that I commune with daily, I don’t know how I’d do it. I am so thankful I’m a mom in this era of technology : ) Good luck with your refresh!
I like reading your blog because of your kind and genuine heart. You are a great encourager and I imagine sitting across from you eating lunch at some cute little bistro getting honest yet tender advice from my girlfriend with a dose of understanding. Every woman needs that! :)
I love your honesty, your open-mindedness, your worldliness, and your friendliness. All in all, a beautiful place to sit and read and reflect. I love that you don’t preach but share. You love your readers and respond. This is all really important to the people who come to visit The Gypsy Mama site.
My favorite part of this place: YOU!
I echo so many of the things mentioned here: I really value the posts on motherhood, womanhood, and community. The way you hold tension of all this ache and all this beauty and write out of that place – I love that. I also think that something that sets this place apart is that I can come find deep heart truth some days, and other days it’s just pure fun, more light hearted (20 cleaning jobs, etc). I think that mirrors real life friends – where sometimes you dive deep and sometime you just have a good laugh, and makes the overall feel very… accessible.
Thank you, Annie. That’s so helpful to hear. Because sometimes I worry that I’m too silly in what I share and I should spend more time looking for deeper meaning – but really, some days I’m just a girl with a laundry list of house keeping chores she does.not.like. and it’s so nice to have friends to laugh over those with!
I love 5-Friday!. I love that you write about things we all deal with like bathing suits and beauty. I love that it is always relevant and rooted in God. It is tough being a woman, and this sweet, comfy place makes it a bit easier. Where we encourage each other and not tear each other down.
I read you for the encouragement. Selfish, I know. But it seems like this first baby girl has ROCKED my world, upside down, inside out….nothing about me is the same. Which I love. But it is also very overwhelming to me. It is nice to read your words of honesty and encouragement. It is wonderful to know that someone else has struggled through this, when it seems most of the moms around me are perfect at this from day one. I appreciate your gift of words, very very much. Also, you are an intelligent writer, and the teacher in me loves that. :) Oh, and I really like Five Minute Friday, too. :) Have a great week!
My first baby girl has rocked me the same way Kelli! :)
I love coming over and reading your wonderful words of encouragement. It’s even sweeter stopping by now that I’ve met you in person…at the in(RL) conference. You spill your guts and write about my own thoughts and mishaps. So tea is ready and cookies are out for us to share….hugs!
Oh lovely Carolina,
It’s so nice to know that you can read me and meet me and the two people have much in common. Thank you for that!
I am a new reader here after attending (in)RL. I so appreciated what you had to share in the videos. You said things I had felt since day one of reading at (in)courage. I just wanted to step into the computer where you were sitting to talk to you and the other women and tell you how much I relate to what you have to say and write. I also first learned about your “5 min. Fridays” when you shared about Sara and how she would stay up late to wait for you to post at midnight. Honestly that is what ultimately pulled me here to begin reading your blog. It encouraged me so much as God began to almost daily nudge me toward blogging again. I have been flat out scared to do so and stuck in how to get words out. I started a couple weeks ago with “opportunity” and wrote my own 5 min. worth to see what would happen. About a week later I began putting ideas to paper and then finally got on wordpress and made myself a blog. My first post was yesterday and this is my second place to let anyone know I even have a blog going. And it’s just an introduction post! :)
So, I read here because like the others said, it’s what you have to say and how you are expressing it in your own style and way. Thank you for doing so and know that it’s reaching people! And obviously, I love the 5 min. Fridays and might start linking in with you to do that every week. I follow you on twitter too and several of the other (in)courage girls and love that as well. How fun to do a makeover of the blog. I hope you are enjoying the process and we will all love the results I am sure.
hi Libby!
Oh I have tears in my eyes now thinking about Sara and what she started here and how she keeps it all going – way down in my heart. Thank you for coming over to visit. Thank you for being brave enough to share your words. You are so so welcome with us!
Thank you! Yes, tears in my eyes too thinking about Sara. I connected with her online during a Bloom book club reading 1,000 Gifts and was so spurred on in my journey of thanking God and choosing joy. The way God weaves things together and continues to do so even when he’s taken a person on Home is amazing.
Pretty much everything you write is great—some of it resonates, some of it doesn’t (my girls are older, so the mommy-of-littles doesn’t apply to me anymore).
Please keep 5 minute Fridays, though!!! Please.
And my teenage girl is putting brownies in the oven right now. I live just north of Anchorage, Alaska. C’mon over in about half an hour when they’re done. :)
Anchorage Alaska and brownies – what a great combo! And yes, I promise to keep Five Minute Friday :)
i love how you form your words and how they always feel like a hug! i love how you encourage and inspire….that you are authentic and how you leave it all out there.
i love how each post meets me where i am and challenges me to go beyond surviving…but thriving in every facet of my life
thanks!!
By now, you must surely realize that we all come here to chat with YOU. We are grateful for your honesty, your commitment to faith and family, your willingness to be vulnerable AND your ability to be what you label ‘silly,’ but I call real. You do not over-spiritualize everything – and how I thank God for that! There is not always a verse that helps every situation. Sometimes we need to talk to someone else about it, sometimes we need to vent, sometimes we need to cry, sometimes we need to giggle. God made us to be complex and interesting creatures. Creatures that long for relationship – with God and with others. And YOU, my dear, offer that in this space. So don’t change too much, please. Keep it real, keep it honest and keep those 5 minute thingies coming, too. :>)
I love coming to your blog because every time I visit it feels like I have just walked into a friend’s home. It’s honest and comfortable. When I read your posts I feel as if I’m right there with you sharing your journey each step of the way. It’s also a place where I can feel relaxed and encouraged, where it’s ok to be me. Have a wondeful day!
Blessings~
Shari
Lisa-Jo darling, I’m with Teri Lynne. No matter what you change or don’t change, you will be here, and that will make your space golden. And wherever you are, there we’ll be.
I love you.
In the past few weeks, I stumbled upon your blog, but I added you to my reading list on blogger. It’s the combination of useful information (like your summer book reviews) with the powerful, real stories. I love your voice. Even though, I’ve never met you, I feel like you’re talking to me. :-)
lisa jo,
such a great question! so great, in fact, that i had to quit lurking! i read because you write like a smile … a warm, welcoming, lovely, honest, beautiful smile. keep up the great work! blessings to you …
Why do I read your words…
How much space do I have? How much time do you want to spend readin this? ;)
Here’s the heartfelt, yet condensed version:
When I first started blogging for public consumption, I found your space through (in)courage and I dont even remember HOW I found (in)Courage except perhaps it was divine intervention. But anyway, I discovered your five minute friday meme, which you KNOW I adore, and you gave me the push I needed to untangle my words and set them free, without the red pen hanging in the wings, waiting to strike. You taught me how to slience my inner critic that tells me my writing sucks on it’s best days, and just step out in faith and write, for heaven’s sake!
You’re a cheerleader for not just Moms, but for women, for writers, for dreamers, for sisters… you encourage community with all of your heart and for that I am most grateful.
Lisa-Jo, you teach me how to love my children better, how to Love Jesus better, how to LIVE Jesus better, and with all of this, the question I have, is simply, how could I NOT read here?
Thank YOU for all you do, all the ways you encourage and inspire. I can’t wait to see your new blogging space, I know it’s going to be fantastic. Raising my sea-salted-dark-chocolate-covered caramel to you, and anxiously awaiting hugging your neck again at Allume. You shine like a star. XO
Kris, I can NOT wait to hug you again soon! You are far too generous. And an amazing encourager! Thank you girl!
I absolutely adore and appreciate your authenticity and encouragement!!!
:) I love how there’s always something I can learn and take away from you every time I read your posts despite me being single and you a Mama. It’s like having the older sister I never had. <3
Lovely Eunice in Singapore – how fun it is to know you’re reading along with me 12 hours ahead :)
It is just you – your beautiful, encouraging, real, shining light self. I am not a young mother any longer (far, far from it), and still I come just to visit. I love your heart and your astounding way with words. I’m happy to just sit in a little corner and listen.
The realness – I don’t comment much, but I feel my soul open up like I’m with a good friend when I read your posts. So much honesty, so much truth, so much encouragement. Everything else is just gravy. :)
You are a gentle encourager. Enough said. Oh, and I love that you are taller than me!
You still read over here? In between life and Squirt and well, life with Squirt!! I’m super thrilled :)
Unlurking to say thank you for your words. I think what keeps me coming back is your heart. Your heart for Truth, your love for your family, your honesty, and your hope grounded firmly in the One who chose you in Christ before the foundation of the world, and your desire to speak all of this into the lives and hearts of women who long to read words like yours. You write in a way that reminds me of Home. Thank you…and please keep writing.
“You write in a way that reminds me of Home.” Oh Melissa, those words are a gift. Thank you.
I love that you write things that make me tear up in that ‘I so needed to hear someone else say that right this moment’ way, and that you write about things that are hard to talk about, and you do it with honesty & caring. I come here when I need a fill up, and can always find some words, new or old, fresh to my eyes or much read, that do the trick :)
First time commenter – been reading for about a year. I love it here because I feel such a comradarie with you though what you write. I found Gypsy Mama sometime last year when I was pregnant with my first babe – a Canadian, with an American Mommy and and Aussie Dad. I am often in tears when I’m reading … the good kind.
Hi there Jacqui B – I love that you said hello. A South Africa gal with an American husband waving back atcha :)
“…women who are welcome to kick off their flip flops and just sit a while until they feel reminded again that they matter. That what they do matters.
You matter.
Beyond your routine. You. You matter.”
Honestly, I haven’t been here in a very long time. Then again, I haven’t been to any blog in a long time, my own included. But why I love it here? Because of the sentences I quoted above. You make me feel like I matter. I know I do, but it’s easy to forget that between loads of laundry and piles of dirty dishes. But this is a safe place, a place for me relax and be refreshed. And be reminded that I matter.
I forget too – that I’m more than just my undone laundry. I love that in places like this we can remind each other. Thank you Liza Lee
Lisa-Jo, something gets unearthed in me, from the gift of your prompts on 5-minute Fridays. You give a word, and I listen for His words, in response, and I just go. . . Something powerful and beautiful is created here, each time you venture out, loving us, with open arms. I am so grateful.
I love that so many are liberated by 5 minutes of writing – and I love seeing everyone encouraging each other. It’s a gift to get to host!
If it wasn’t for the five minute friday posts I don’t think I would have ever started to write from the heart. You may want to keep that going…. (please)
Yes ma’am – will do!
Your honesty – above all – your wonderful way with words, you really have a gift for describing things, everyday things, just the way the truly are and not glossing them over. You describe how I feel a lot of the time and you are not shy or too proud to admit difficulties – which helps me in turn not to feel so alone with those feeling.
And being a Swiss living in Sydney – I come here to share your homesickness, the difficulty of living between two countries and feeling kind of without anywhere to really call home.
Hi there Simone,
It comforts me too – knowing that there are others who live “in between” reading along and nodding along. That I am not alone in that hard place of feeling alone. Thank you.
Hi! I read regularly because being a mama can be exhausting, and your encouragement helps me to have the proper perspective to work as hard as I possibly can, and to soak up every precious second. I’ve sent links to many friends, several of whom are also daily readers :)
Thanks for what you offer here!
Hi there Madi – if you’re a mom, you’re a super hero. Period :)
Your emotion is raw. Your stories are real. Your encouragement is heartfelt.
I am a new mama of an almost 4 month old baby girl. Your writings on motherhood move me and encourage me. Sometimes you say (write) things that I feel but didn’t know how to say myself.
Your blog is refreshing when my heart/soul/mind/day is in need of refreshment… Um, every day?
P.S. Thank you for writing here. Your words bless many.
Your warmest, your realness and your ability to weave a beautiful tapestry with your words……that’s what I love most. :) Your encouragement helps me know that my “real” is ok and this ordinary life of being a mama is extraordinary! Thank you for allowing God to use your words to bless others.
warmest….agh! That should say warmNESS. :)
“Hopefully next week it will be ready for you all – with lots of comfy sofas and places to lounge around. There will be snacks and some party favors and women who are welcome to kick off their flip flops and just sit a while until they feel reminded again that they matter. That what they do matters.”
That, right there, is my favorite part of your blog. Because I feel like you would really invite us all into your living room, to kick off our flips and tuck our feet under us on your comfy couch, and talk of things that make remind us how worthwhile we are. You’re amazing at that. And if you never revamped or rearranged furniture in your bloggy living room, I’d still keep reading you. Because YOU are more than just the sum of your words and the colors on your page. <3
I would, I so would. And it would be a wee bit messy and crowded in our small place – but oh wouldn’t we just laugh and cry and laugh some more with each other. And there’d probably be babies underfoot and more chocolate than is good for us and it would be *heavenly*!
Thank you Carrie for putting your feet up over here on this old furniture that’s made the trek between too many addresses to keep track of!
The first post I read of yours was “For the Days When You Want to Quit Motherhood,” and it reduced me to tears of relief. I’ve been hooked on your blog ever since. Reading your posts reminds me that God is not demanding perfection as I mother and that His love is about freedom to be me, not critical expectations.
In short, you are honest about how hard being a mother can be, and I appreciate that as a young mom in the trenches with two energetic blessings under the age of two!
Also, I am a writer in hiding (enough so that I avoid your Friday posts :P), and I have been feeling convicted lately that I am actively denying and suppressing something God has made me to do. Reading your blog makes me excited about writing, even though I’m intimidated by it (the idea of writing, that is, not your blog).
You *can* do it, Natasha! Just write -even if you don’t ever link it up. Just write it out and see how good it feels! Thank you for your encouragement. Write with Five Minute Friday and let that beautiful community come over and encourage YOU!
I just started following you, a friend’s blog always links to you on Friday’s. I am so glad I started reading your blog!! I love how real you are and yes I get teary eyed a lot!!! I love the encouragement you give to us!!!
I love reading your posts! I’m a new mom, and I deal daily with mommy guilt and feelings of inadequacy. Your posts uplift me and I leave them feeling like I’m doing okay as a mom. Thanks!
Oh, gosh. Let me count the ways.
I love the depth and breadth of your sharing, your tears and fears, your joys and hopes, and the times you have fallen.
I enjoy reading your stories on the triumphs and tribulations of raising a family. Even though my daughters are grown, I often nod my head and smile and laugh in recognition and agreement, and will send your post to my eldest, who is not yet a mom.
I love the fresh honesty of your writing and your wonderful and delightful way with words that makes us all feel so much at home amongst the chaos.
I love the community of support you have built, especially through the Five Minute Fridays. Who knew how popular, powerful and wonderful they would be?
And, the biggest reason: because you work and write at being just you, Lisa-Jo. You are an inspiration to so many women who are struggling through all those things we grapple with as women, wives and moms.
Hugs and M&M’s being shared in your honor!
Oh lovely Kim, thank you for the encouragement! I love to imagine looking back on these chaotic days and just enjoying remembering them alongside a new mom. Thank you for the perspective, the M&Ms and oh my yes who EVER could have imagined five minute Fridays would become such a lovely virtual weekly flashmob. Certainly not me! :)
True confessions: I have to admit that I often never actually make it to your blog to read your posts. I read them within my email notification. Which is my loss because I miss all the cool stuff on your blog page! I make this confession though, to say that your heart comes through in your words and that is the encouragement I seek and receive from you! I am a lurker, someone who does not comment normally, but felt compelled to respond today. I love the community that exists online and the encouragement I receive is truly amazing. However, the balance between real life and the virtual world is so important. Thus, there are only a few sites that time allows me to plug into regularly. Yours in one of two that I am instantly encouraged by, just receiving the email indicating a new post is up! Thank you!!
Hey there Melody –
I love that you read via email – there’s never any pressure to click over to the blog! Thank you for your lovely encouragement, though. It’s a gift.
I love your eloquence, the dancing of language and the honesty you bring to the dance. Don’t ever change that! Your writing is so full of truth, of love, and of faith. Love it, love you!
Though my children are much older than yours (nearly 23, 17), I visit here because of the transparency, the encouragement, and the beauty. Your words are often so poetic they take my breath away! I feel welcome and wanted here, and I often invite others to visit too. I always leave with a lighter, happier heart and the reminder that my life matters.
I love this place and you Lisa-Jo because every word is so real. I feel so at home here. I’ve been reading here for a almost a year now but I feel like I’ve known you for a lifetime. Seeing your posts in my inbox always brings a smile to my face and joy to my heart. And God always seems to send those posts just when I need them most.
So I know whatever you design for the blog it will be perfect. It will be perfect not because of how it looks…it will be perfect because you will be there offering us a piece of your precious heart.
For me, it’s all about your humble, honest, warm words.
I read because I love your honesty. You are the kind of person that I can admit to that even though my youngest is 14, we still have a sock basket. Yet your faith in the Lord is absolute. You have a talent for string the words together like pearls, so I can laugh with, cry and just feel as though I have connected heart to heart with someone. Also, a great compassion for people shines through your writing and that is such a rare quality. Mercy does indeed triumph over judgement!
“women who are welcome to kick off their flip flops and just sit a while until they feel reminded again that they matter. ”
That’s a big thing… see I DO wear flip flops and don’t feel like I have to put on my real shoes or go hunting for them stop by for a visit. It doesn’t matter that my hair hasn’t been combed since morning other than random running of my fingers through my bangs. You already have comfy couches (thoroughly jumped on by kiddos and full of crumbs just like mine). What you write about is real, the lovely and unlovely and how even the unlovely is beautiful. It’s poetic, without shoving poetry down an illiterate’s throat.
And through it all, I feel welcome to sit on the couch with my coffee, smiling, nodding, shedding a tear or two, rubbing shoulders with fellow women, leaving encouraged. Lurking, but sharing my encouragement from the distance, through the shared words we’ve all read; we all experience.
Oh Dineen, clearly you’ve spent time on my sofas because that’s *exactly* what they’re like :) Thank you for taking me as I am. All the crazy ramblings of an exhausted and exhilarated mama at midnight. Just thank you.
Oh! I’ve only just met you a few months/weeks ago and I love how you understand the woman’s and mother’s need for affection, comfort, laughter… and to know her beauty is ingrained. You are a treasure and God has an intensely important ministry for you in this. Proclaiming His truth to women. Thank you!
The first post of yours that crossed my path was an encouragement for writers… just as I was abandoning my 15 year career and venturing down a new path that includes more intentional writing. I kept asking myself… Why would I jump into this when there are so many saying it so much better. It’s like you heard me. You have such an encouraging heart – for writers, for mothers, for other seekers of Jesus. In my former career I would work with nonprofits that were mid-site redesign… they would get so caught up in usability, and schedules, and button design that the heart of their mission went missing. While you pick colors and ponder sidebars and buttons remember that your gift is encouragement. Thank you for walking in your gift.
Such good words, Heather. And so wise because I *have* been stressed about all the things I realize reading all these good words that aren’t the heart of a blog. And these beautiful, generous reminders have touched me more than I can express. And they get my fingers all itching to keep on writing and sharing and connecting and loving doing life alongside you all!
I have been reading this blog since the beginning I think. It is one of my favorites.
You are awesome. You are honest. You are encouraging. You are inspirational.
Let me see, you hang out with some who I would love to get to know.
Someday I will go to the allume conference and soak in all of the energy and wisdom and encouragement you all share back to us.
We need each other in this day to day world.
Even if I am a grandma of six …
No I am not a young mom. But for me as it says in the word, let the older ladies teach the younger ones and through places like this (your blog and others) my wisdom, lessons or advise can be shared and God is pleased. I can come alongside you (as young moms) and share encouragement and let you know… this will pass and someday the chaos will end and your home will be very quiet. We all have seasons and each one of them are precious.
If your blog was not here it would be a very sad day for many.
And Sharon – it’s wonderfully, exactly encouraging to have moms who’ve been there and come out alive on the other side encourage us. Thank YOU for being such a faithful part of the journey!
Your blog is one of two blogs I subscribe to. The other is my bestie’s blog. I too, write a blog. My blog is based on civil rights and social justice – a heavy topic as it involves thoughts on policing, the justice system, and racism. It is not a read for the faint of heart.
In 1996 I witnessed the brutal murder by police of a black man outside where I live. The police and the media portrayed incorrect facts about the murder and the police officer was not accountable for his actions. The police officer who shot this black man shot him point blank without provocation then stated the black man had a sword and was lunging towards him. I did not see it with my own eyes that way – no sword – no lunging.
Recently, in February of this year, a black man holding only scissors in his hands at his sides and wearing a hospital gown who had left the hospital completely disorganized in mind and spirit was gunned down by police in a residential neighbourhood. The black man was likewise, not agressive or trying to harm the polcie officers or anyone else. He was simply walking down the street towards the police, calmly and slowly. This has been captured on video. The police officer in question has been completely exonerated and will not stand trial.
You probably think I live in S.A. I don’t. I live in Canada – a land renowned for it’s multi-culturalism. A country that claims to be inclusive and non-racist.
My bestie used to live in S.A. during Apartheid and after the release of Nelson Mandela and the fall of Apartheid in 1994. She has been living in my country for only the last 8 years. She says that due to what I have told her and have written in my blog…it seems just like S.A….which shocks her. She thought Canada was different.
Your blog, like hers, is light-hearted, fun, inclusive, supportive to others and women, loves children – hers and others, is up-beat and inspiring and often makes me laugh or cry with delight. I also like to see your smiling face and the lovely photos of you and your family. Through reading your blog, I feel like you are a family member or a sister or a good friend.
And…you believe in the same things I do…that all people are valuable and should be treated equally!!! And that we women sometimes focus on the superficial stuff when we should really be celebrating each others successes, accomplishments, and inner beauty…and that being a woman is a beautiful challenging process and that giving birth to and raising children is the most valuable work you’ll ever do even if it is not recognized with the utmost respect it deserves…the hand that rocks the cradle….
I want to thank you for making my day exceptionally fulfilling…your blog touches my heart everyday and that helps me to continue with the difficult work of pursuing civil rights and social justice for the marginalized and racialized people of the world.
Darlene Marett
peopleschoicemovement.com
Hi Darlene – thank you for sharing. Thank you for the work you do. I lived in the human rights world for many years and I know the toll it can take on a soul to see those kinds of injustice. Thank you for shining a light. On behalf of all of us. Thank you.
Hi Lisa Jo! I started reading your blog very recently because I was catching up on old Simple Mom podcasts. I heard you on “Homesick” and I loved it (I immediately felt you were a kindred spirit!). Sometimes, I feel like I can’t relate to other Christian mom bloggers out there because I don’t fit within the typical demographics: I’m not a mom (yet, but hopefully one day!); I work full-time at a non-profit in a large urban city (Boston), and I probably will work whenever I have children; I love people, but I am definitely introverted and need alone time to refresh. I love your transparency, sense of humor, and your encouraging nature. I feel like I can relate with you in many ways, and if we were neighbors, you can bet that I’d be over to help clean (one of my strengths, believe it or not!) with some chocolate and hugs! With that said, I just subscribed to your blog, perhaps a week ago. I think the 5 minute friday posts are fabulous! Perhaps being east-coasters (far away from our original home), we’ll be able to meet some day! Thanks for sharing your heart both here and on podcasts!
Hi, Lisa Jo. I read because you are real, you make me laugh at myself (much needed), you are a great writer, and mostly because you understand me. When so many other women are not honest about how hard this mom job is for all of us, you tell it like it is and somehow manage to make me feel validated and encouraged even while describing my messy, unglamorous life. Can’t wait to see the comfy chair makeover.
Dear Lisa-Jo,
You remind me that I matter. How often have I lost sight of that. How often have I struggled with my heart to be wholly there for my children, and the expectations of others. How often have I felt quite alone. It’s so wonderful, like opening letters from a dear dear one, and reading words that give me self-confidence and envelop me with sisterhood and warmth. I’m a happier mom for this! I’m letting myself be me! And finding that being gentle can also be another form of strong.
I am Indian but I’ve moved from India, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, US and Germany; and my two (half-german) sons, 12 and 14, are growing up in two cultures. So I’m loving seeing that, yes, it CAN be done, and it can be done well. Love and gratitude, anuradha
Gypsy Mama, I don’t think you have to change a thing. I like your blog just as is. But, if you sense the Lord prompting you to change things for the purpose of His glory, then I will be excited to see what you unveil. Your words always seem to resonate with me in some way, and I just love your blog design. I understand that change is necessary sometimes. I am the queen of rearranging furniture, which drives my daughter and cats crazzzy. And, I want to change my blog design at least once a week LOL. God Bless.
Lisa Jo…..wow, I’ve been following your blog for a couple of years now, and I can honestly say that when I am reading your blog, its as if I’m sitting down with an old friend. I feel warm and accepted and more often than not,I want to yell out, ” yes, that’s exactly how I feel!”. You’re real. And you’re sincere and transparent. And most of all, your love for Jesus spills out in everything you say. I always go away from reading your blog refreshed–as if I just had a good chat with a friend. So, so thankful for you and this place where you share….
I come because something about your words, inspires my own. You are a source of positive thoughts, encouragement, and challenge. Thank you for providing this place.
I love your encouraging spirit and the honesty in which you share from your heart. Kindness flows from your words and I always feel refreshed after reading each post. You’re like a true friend cheering me on reassuring me that I am the woman, child of God, wife, mom, that God has called me to be–beautiful just as I am.
I also know first-hand after meeting you (inRL) that you do the same in person–sweet, kind, encouraging, and real! =)
Looking forward to discovering what the “new look” of the blog will be but I’ll always follow along no matter what.
Hugs,
Rachel
I’m a newer reader, but find that I never can have too much encouragement to just ‘keep on keeping on’ and to strive to be the best I can be, right here, right now.
Your blog definitely meets all of those things, and I think I’ll be around for awhile.
Thank you!
((((((Hi!))))))
I read you because:
~ Ann Voskamp mentioned you in some post, and any friend of Ann’s is worth knowing!
~ My best friends are from South Africa, and I learn about their past when I read of your present.
~ Your words make God’s Word sing, and I enjoy listening.
~ I’m a Mom, and I appreciate your view of life – knowing you are currently half a world away.
~ I’m a Christian and I’ll be spending all eternity with you. It’s fun to get to know you now – knowing we can catch up later on.
I can type you a gross of virtual brownies, covered with Hershey’s Kisses and Hugs:
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
[X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O] [X] [O]
Enjoy!
~ I’m a Christian and I’ll be spending all eternity with you. It’s fun to get to know you now – knowing we can catch up later on.
Absolutely LOVE this thought!! What a day of rejoicing that will be!!!
I love how encouraging you are, your honesty as you write, and the frequency of your posts. Thank you for taking the time away from your family to write and help others.
t.
I read Gypsy Mama because you are real and you allow me to be real. I am finally understanding how freeing that is. Thank you.
Um, I was so excited about being able to (((hug))) you and type you Brownies that I forgot that you are NOT in South Africa, but in the Washington, D.C. jungles of the USA.
You’re only 14 hours north-east, but there are days when DC seems half a world away!
~ I’m a little slow. Full of chocolate, but clueless. Sorry!
Your words inspire me. I love your Friday Five Minute prompts, even though I rarely seem to abide by the rules of only writing for five minutes. Those prompts bring about healing for me … so I thank you.
And, If I lived closer, I’d bring brownies! I can make some good ones!
I enjoy your words. You are always so encouraging and truthful about the messy and the good all jumbled together. I am not a Mom or a wife, but I love seeing the real side of both of those in the way you talk about your life. I live in Africa so my heart is here. I like connecting with someone else who has a love for this place and these people and has lived here. Keep up the good work and serving Him!
1) LJ, I like you!
2) I like what you write.
3) It is important to support each other.
4) Mothers do incredibly important work.
5) Keep it up!
abby
Hi Lisa Jo!!
I read your wonderful posts because they encourage, inspire, and comfort me. As a first-time mommy, I felt very lonely and overwhelmed and like I was failing at everything–ruining my precious baby, so to speak. I thought I was crazy for feeling like this, and then I read some of your posts and realized, “Hey…it’s like she’s writing down what I’m thinking!!” I look forward to your updates and am always so encouraged when I read them. I also try to take part in 5-minute Friday to try to hold on to some of the passions I had before I became a mommy–writing, creativity, etc. I love your honesty and the way you make me feel like a friend even though we’ve never met. God has used you greatly in my life, and in so many others’! You are a blessing!!! Love, Mary
Oh Mary – I should be bringing YOU the brownies. First time motherhood is just plain hard and honestly it hasn’t been till the third time for me that I can honestly say I have relished and reveled in every bit of it. Be kind to yourself. It gets easier. But the beginning can be real bumpy and you are not alone. We have all been there – passing the brownies now! :)
I read The Gypsy Mama because you are inside my head! Almost every post that you write speaks to my heart, but it is the posts on Motherhood and raising children that I cling to most. Your words are inspiring, uplifting, and encouraging. I love to share your posts with others and I especially like to go back and re-read them myself when I need a boost. Thank you for sharing your gifts to lift others up!
i read to be encouraged, to know that i am NOT alone and that there truly is beauty in everything. i came here from seeing the 5mf button on someone’s site and have been subscribed ever since. you truly have an amazing gift, lisa-jo, praising God that you use it to His glory.
I am a relatively new reader. Five-minute Fridays first drew me in, and then I discovered how much more is going on here. You are so warm, encouraging, and real. A mother’s voice like yours was what I ached for when I was a struggling single mother of a lively, wonderful but challenging boy. He is now 12, and I am married with a sweet 8 month old baby boy. In this second motherhood season, I look to you for company and also for a model for how I might someday share some of my journey. Thank you for your beautiful, welcoming, and wise voice.
Adding more brownies in case you’ve eaten all the others up, already :-)
Just love your words and how you put them together.
Even though my kids are just a hair older than yours, I love how you encourage me to broaden my perspective. To both enjoy the moment, and yet look just a bit further down the road. I. love. that.
And you’ve created a place to just share my heart with others on Fridays without over-analyzing and meet a bunch of other wonderful women who do the same. It’s been a whole lot of fun. And most weeks, by Friday, I need a whole lot of fun :-)
Blessings to you this day, sweet one!
Steph
I love that you are real, that you share your failures as well as your successes. That you are a Gypsy who has an Africa-shaped hole in her heart, ’cause so do I. Not because I was birthed there, or because I have blood-related family there, but because I am drawn there like no other place I have ever felt drawn to and I’ve never been out of the US (there are brown children in my future, either me there, or them here, ;). I love that you work and that makes me feel less guilty because I have to work. I never comment, but I love it here! ((((((hugs)))))))
It is good now and then to do deep cleaning. However, I have to say you really don’t need to change anything. I like your blog the way it is, but perhaps you felt the Lord tell you change something or maybe someone gave you some kind feedback? Hope so. I love the way you say what others need to hear and I am always encouraged after reading your blog. You have touched my soul and you have even taken the time to read a post of mine and tell the world to read that particular one. Thank you Lisa. Hoping we meet this side of Heaven soon. Major hugs and chocolate, fudge brownies from me to you. ;>)
I love to read your real-life stories, to hear about the surprising joy you have found in parenting, and to be reminded of God’s presence in the midst of the mundane. Your blog is so down to earth… (and so non-preachy. That is important too.)
Thanks for writing…
I’m a first time mom. I’m overwhelmed with how much I love my little one. But I am sometimes overwhelmed with fear… of the future and of the enormous responsibility on my shoulders. Your blog has held my hand and told me “it’s okay you are not alone”. Thank you.
Why do I come here? Because you make me feel normal and real. You remind me that it’s great to just be me, but at the same time I don’t have to settle for any of the things that are less than God wants me to be. Thanks a bunch. : )
Like so many others I feel, when I read your posts, like you’ve invited me in and patted the seat next to you, saying “Here. I’ve been saving this spot for you.” You make each person feel special and recognized here and that’s a rare gift.
I also know how easy it is to get caught up in the design of buttons, sidebars, etc. so I’ll say that I really like that your social media buttons look like worn postage stamps. Cool and a reflection of you. :)
Oh sweetie, I read your blog because inside your stories and humor, is a real woman who has traveled the world and really loves the Lord! I love your heart to share bits of celebration (and failure) with your big girl panties on, and be REAL with us! I love your heart to encourage other women in the Lord, in mommy-ing, in the real world & real ways. Yes, although I’m more than 10 years your senior, you are one of my top reasons for retweeting! My Facebook friends are mostly younger than you, new moms, and not so new moms, that need to hear your words of healing and encouragement!
I love your words, and appreciate you living here out loud!!
I love reading this blog because sometimes when you talk about the difficult parts of being a mom, it’s like you’re talking right to me! There are days when I feel like you’re the only person who has ‘seen’ me all day!
It’s important and special to me when other moms are honest about the trials and mistakes and crummy feelings as they parent. If more of us did that, maybe we wouldn’t feel so alone and so ashamed when we screw up or just aren’t having the “right feelings” about it all.
Thank you. :)
Lisa-Jo,
You are incredibly gifted at communicating love and warmth. You bring me to tears so often simply because I feel loved and the core of me that longs for a friend like you is touched. I love how real you are. It’s both freeing and refreshing:)
I have not been a subscriber for very long (maybe a month), but I enjoy reading your blog because you are like a kindred spirit in thinking. I enjoy the honesty, warmth and down to Earth feel. <3
Oh Lisa-Jo, I love visiting your place because it’s where you are! The smile I see in your eyes makes me feel welcome and the warmth of your words make me never want to leave. I’m not sure I’ve ever really even notice if there was new paint on the walls or if you suddenly decided to vacuum the carpet. All I ever notice is you and the seemingly effortless way you remind me of who I am.
I love the loving way you talk about life, motherhood, and faith. I love the way you highlight the joys and make me laugh about the annoyances without ever becoming snarky or sarcastic. I love how often you’ve taken the trials and reminded me of how God uses those things for our good too- you’re words are a constant reassurance of Romans 8:28. After one of our visits I’m always encouraged and excited again about my place in this world.
I’m excited for you to get a redesign because I know how much fun that can be, but I simply can’t imagine this place being any more comfortable than it already is. Thank you for what you do!
Why I come? that’s very simple – because i always leave encouraged … full of courage!reading about your life in that beautifully transparent and wide open way of yours leaves me refreshed … comforted … and also challenged. So when your mails hit my smartphone in the midst of my often “frenzied-3-kids-under-5-yrs-days” here in the south of germany I often can’t wait to read them so in the midst of bobbycar races up & down the hallway (do u have those in the states?), yelling “watch your baby sisters fingers!”,screaming boys, cooking, or another of those mummy moments, I delve into your mail like I would into a bar if chocolate! (my fav treat)
So Lisa-Jo, u make a big difference in my day, and your words are often used by God to keep me going …
Thanks for every blog post!
Priscilla
Just started reading your blot 4 days ago but I already love it. I look forward to continuing to follow you and your encouraging words. Thank you for sharing.
I love rearranging furniture! And brownies! And hugs! Yay! I read because you share honestly without writing for shock value. You are an equal opportunity encourager, and for a new mom like me, your stories of motherhood and all the trials & triumphs give me hope. I read because your “voice” is kind and you shine God’s truth without shame. I read because you interact with us, you respond here & on Twitter and you ignore the fact completely that you’re..um…sort of a big deal to smaller bloggers like me :) (how’s that for a hug!)
You’re lovely Crystal. And when it comes down to it – I know one important truth: chocolate is the great equalizer. Oh yes, ma’am – when we’re all eating chocolate with feet up on the sofa we’re all in together. All the way :)
I started reading your blog after hearing you on Simple Mom’s podcast recently. I’d followed a few links here before, but now I’m a subscriber :) I love the encouragement from someone who’s also in the mommyhood trenches – with a little more experience than I have, so far – and that there’s a sense of fellowship here. Thank you for sharing with us!
Hi Lisa,
What I love about your blog is.. YOU! I love the way that you pour yourself into your words, and are so honest about the journey that you are going through. You don’t pretend to be someone that you aren’t. You give me the words to process my own journey through motherhood – through the tears, the frustrations, the joy, the love and the kisses (and the sweet treats at the end).
Thank you for showing me that every emotion, every experience has been felt by someone else, and that its ok to be who I am in the process. and that God is faithfully with me every step of the way.
Your words of encouragement have made me smile and laugh whenever I have needed.
As a new mum (yes that is how it is spelt in Australia), who has struggled to adjust to the changes, I have needed the encouragement! Even more than chocolate!! (especially cos my breastfed daughter couldn’t handle me eating chocolate for more than 6 months…)
Thank you!!
The transparency keeps me coming back. I know this can be tricky in this day and age but you have found a healthy balance.
I’m a young mother, I was married at 19 and had a baby at the fresh age of 21. I love being a mother and its the most natural thing but in this culture satan works lies through like being a stay at home mom isn’t good enough, or that being ‘just a mom’ doesn’t add up to much. It was heavy on my heart but to have emails come from you that remind me that being a mother is an incredible role, well that’s the encouragement I need! Thank you for being that friend who shares truth. I’ve appreciated what you’re doing through this blog.
Laura
Grace. Your point of view helps me to turn back to his grace.
I happened upon your blog fairly recently through a pin that intrigued me about ‘ways to bless a new mom.’ I was pregnant (my little guy is 7 weeks now) and feeling very isolated and in need of support. That post brought me to tears.
Grace. Your point of view helps me to turn back to his grace.
I happened upon your blog fairly recently through a pin that intrigued me about ‘ways to bless a new mom.’ I was pregnant (my little guy is 7 weeks now) and feeling very isolated and in need of support. That post brought me to tears. No doubt hormones played a role, but it was the simultaneous thought of how no one was blessing me in those ways and how I’d missed the boat on all of my friends who became moms before me. I vowed then to always be more aware. I could say so much more about that, but just know that it was transforming.
After reading your story, I also felt such a connection – like an old friend. I’m a gypsy-type in my own rite. I thought it was so cool you lived in Owosso, MI as I live about 20 minutes from there. Overall I just relate to and appreciate nearly every post or recommendation of yours (can’t wait to dive into several of the books you suggested on your summer reading list!). You have inspired me. That is why I read.
Your blog is a breath of fresh air for a tired mom. It has really helped me shape my mood as I learn how to do this mom thing. You give us all permission to be tired, frustrated, imperfect, but the encouragement needed to keep going.
I come here because I can *feel* that hug you have for me! I love your honest, raw, picture-painting words. There’s another mom with DIRTY DISHES STILL ON THE TABLE! I have 5 kids, including an infant, I homeschool, and my days are cah-ray-ZY. A lot of days I feel like a failure. And then I come here, and you tell me I’m doing a great job. And inspire me to let Jesus cover me with grace. And more often than not, I burst into tears over here on my side of the screen. And I lean into your virtual hug and give a huge sob of relief that somebody understands, and loves me. How do you do that, LisaJo? Love SO MANY people that you’ve never even met! THANK YOU!
Your blog is like my worn but treasured copy of “Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids”…I LOVE it…I receive from it over and over in different, fresh ways. It meets me in moments of tears, insecurity, fear, weariness, joy, wonder, confusion. It seems to somehow “get” my complicated heart/soul and love every detail of me. I love that you are transparent about your imperfection. Being a mom has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I worked with kids professionally before becoming a mom. I got all kinds of “kudos” doing that. I’ve felt I never read your blog that I don’t sigh and hear that whisper in my soul, “It’s alright…it’s o.k.” Have you heard Sara Hickman singing this song, “It’s Alright” from her “Newborn” album?…http://youtu.be/_VhLUF4tHek.
I want to make you my grandmother’s Best Ever Brownies…only 7 simple ingredients and easy as a box mix (but oh-so-yummy)…they come out like the molten chocolate cake! If I am missing an ingredient (and I always seem to be), I know I could stop by and borrow…
Thank you for encouragement, rest for my soul, a calling to “more” in that way that is “being” more than “doing”.
Lisa-Jo, I came across your blog one time in the middle of the night when I was up with a baby who refused to sleep by herself. I was exhausted and felt like motherhood was something I had somehow failed without even realising it.
Only looking back does it seem like divine intervention!! Your words of encouragement and peace gave me relief and turned me back (again!) to the loving arms of my Saviour, who is well capable of comforting and soothing me and my daughter!
Your honesty is what speaks deep into my heart. It’s so good to know that I’m not the only Mama who isn’t perfect.
Love you Lisa-Jo!
I like that you seem to be talking to ‘only’ me. Special!!!
I love your sweet, honest, and oh, SOO very REAL posts. My heart is always encouraged, and I walk away feeling challenged and loved! You have such an incredible gift, keep writing, and encouraging, God is using you in big ways! (I also love that I have forwarded on your posts to some friends, that don’t know the Lord, and WOW- the conversations I have had with them because of what you have said is awesome). Your words have broken down barriers, and gone to the heart of the matter of mama-hood. Your an inspiration for the writer and the mama in me. You go girl!
I come here because every time I do I find encouragement. From your story, from what other women share in the comments. Sometimes it’s through tears, sometimes laughter, and always just plain truth. This is a place where as a woman, a wife, a mom, I know it’s okay to just be me. No expectations. All the mess, all the ugly, all the beautiful, all the hard, all the rejoicing, it all fits here. I’m so thankful for this space, your words, and God’s work in all of us.
I love your encouragement. And five minute Fridays rock!
I love the joy that just explodes out of your photos. But it’s only there because you let it be in your heart first, in a world that discourages joy. (Sending you virtual soy-free brownies with dark chocolate frosting!)
Hi L-J!
I’ve been reading you for years, not sure how I “found” you. I don’t write often cause I’m not blogging and don’t have a link to share.
I ditto what everyone said! I appreciate and respect the gift God has given you to write and how you share your heart and wisdom. He’s definitely using you. Also, you’re doing well to make everyone feel special. I love your work and whatever you design will be amazing~ God bless you, xx
p.s. And if you’re ever in the Cape area and want to meet in(RL) I’m keen ;).
Well, there are so many reasons why I read you. I couldn’t put my finger on any one of them as THE reason. It just feels like home here. And even when I don’t have time to click and get “home,” I can read you in my Inbox, which is like getting a letter from home. Most of what you write brings tears to my eyes because your words touch that part of me deep inside my heart that usually just gets hidden away while I attend to the daily grind. And that’s what I like about it here. You appreciate my daily grind. You know my daily grind. Even though you don’t really know me. So thank you. And here, hand me that feather duster. I’ll climb the ladder and get that top shelf for you. ;)
I love to come here and read your words – always encouraging and reassuring. I love that you remind me that I matter; not because of the things I do, not only if achieve, not only if I’m in the in-crowd. I always seem to breathe a little easier after reading here. So matter what the new place looks like, I’ll be reading for sure!
I come here because I recently became a Global Mama in Peru and so your stories about being in between and longing for another place even when you love where you are and being away from family, etc. make me nod and sigh and sometimes cry. So I guess it’s the Gypsy in you that keeps me coming back. And the Mama in you because I’m a Mama too. And I love the idea of the 5-minute Friday and one of these Fridays I’m going to chime in – even if it’s Saturday or something else non-Friday – because I need it and it will be good for me. : )
That and you’re super. And a good cheerleader too. : )
i love how you write & how for me i feel like i am right there with you sitting across from you.i feel safe & comfortable.i love that you share so much of you.i feel like i know you & your just one of my friends.i love reading that you had planned on not having children & now you are a mom.for my husband & me we chose not to have children.instead we have 6 cats and a dog who thinks he is a cat.we also have chickens & a pilgrim goose who just showed up 1 day.the cats & the dog are like children.for me i feel content.i now know why i felt the need not to have kids.i have told you already.to me you are amazing.thank you for letting us in.
I read here because you write as if you’re talking to me, and I always leave with a renewed sense of mattering. That what I do matters. That the care I take of my people matters. And that I’m 100% not alone in the trenches of mothering little ones. That our long days and short years are a time of servanthood, a gift. So thanks! You encourage me, spur me on, and brighten my days; you inspire my writing and I appreciate the time you give here.
I love that you write about the very honest, human side of mothering that I feel but don’t want to share with anyone because I should be so happy and grateful with the blessing of motherhood. Yet, even when you are writing about your emotions, so raw and true, you turn it around for God’s glory and show me how to be thankful and happy and healthy. I love my children and you show us that even though we have very real, sometimes frustrating experiences with our kids, it doesn’t make us “bad.” Thank you for loving like Jesus did and making the ordinary life extraordinary with His goodness. You have shown me that the mundane things in life aren’t little and that God uses a small house to raise big Christ followers. Your heart is wonderful. You are the first mother to ever tell me that I matter (besides my mom, of course!) I did have this strange notion the once I became a mom that I would be part of a great club that we would all join in and share together. Sadly, that has not happened with everyone in the real world but then I found your blog. It made me feel like someone finally understood! Thank you for being real, for following God’s desires for your heart and for being Jesus-led. You have made me feel special in God’s eyes.
I love your blog because you are like me, because you are like a sister, because I can see myself being neighbors with you. I love the way you challenge me (okay, us) each Friday. We have never met, and I feel like we are friends. Oh, and by the way, I am coming to D.C. the end of July. Want to meet for coffee…and maybe some chocolate? I know it will be hot, maybe just chocolate!
~Di
Hi Lisa, I come because I got to know you through (in)RL and your story of how you ended up doing what you love so resonates with me. I am in the “waiting” mode just like you were and coming here gives me hope that I will one day hear that “yes”. )And of course you need to keep FMF!)
I think I found you in the last few days of my 1st pregnancy or in those long hours of nursing, surfing the internets to keep myself awake. I honestly don’t remember a lot from those blurry days, but it was somewhere in there :)
What I love is that this is a place where being a mom is real. Where being a woman with struggles is real. Where being a person with triumphs is real.
I have passed on The Gypsy Mama to many a friend. And we all keep coming back for the REAL.
I love the open feel. You aren’t afraid to speak your mind which I love. I like it more when someone tells me straight rather than sugar-coating. I love 5 Minute Friday which is one main reason I keep coming back. I like seeing the raw writing of a lot of the other awesome blogs out there. It’s refreshing that it’s not edited & proofread in a very Photoshoppy kind of world (not a word I know but….)
I love the open feel. You aren’t afraid to speak your mind which I love. I like it more when someone tells me straight rather than sugar-coating. I love 5 Minute Friday which is one main reason I keep coming back. I like seeing the raw writing of a lot of the other awesome blogs out there. It’s refreshing that it’s not edited & proofread in a very Photoshoppy kind of world (not a word I know but….)
Jonathan.
That is all…
Jonathan…
First, consider yourself hugged! and if you are going to the Allume conference in Oct, I’ll bring the brownies!
Now, I read because you write like we’re having a conversation, you invite the reader into your life and you have fun doing it, i.e. 5-minute Fridays.
Keep writing, I’ll keep reading!!! and thanks!
Why do I read the Gypsy Mama?
Because of the writing. Because of the “oh-I-have-so-been-there-too!” emotional resonance of your writing and experiences in life, motherhood, relationships.
And-because EVERY time I read your blog I walk away inspired and hopeful.
EVERY single time.
Thank you, Lisa-Jo for all of your words. And your heart. And remember-spring cleaning is good, but it’s not necessarily what makes people want to come into your home; it’s the spirit and the joie de vivre. Keep on keepin’ on!
With a grateful heart-
Liz
I love when you write about cross-cultural living and homesickness and living in the in-between. As an expat, I can identify with those posts and I love the good advice that comes out of them.
Plus, your kids are lovely and I love sneaking a peek at them in your pictures :)
I started reading Gypsy Mama just a couple of months ago after listening to you talk with Tsh on a podcast and I fell in love with your personality, it reminds me of a really close friend of mine. Your writings make me feel like you are speaking right to my heart, the words that a best friend should be telling me as I start this new journey of motherhood and then the comfort I feel to even leave a commit when I am usually the quiet one and just listen is why I love coming here to read…. :)
Thank you for all you do Lisa-Jo!
Hey there Alexis,
It’s fun to “meet” folks who listened to my ramblings with Tsh. A new mom, eh? Oh such sweet blessings on you -and welcome to the most wonderful rollercoaster you will ever ride! Warmest of wishes, Lisa-Jo
I am a few days late but I still wanted to contribute my 2 cents. I read your blog because it is simply REFRESHING! God has truly graced you with the gift of encouragement. I found your blog early one morning about 2 years ago. I was deep into the throngs of post partum depression and hadn’t told a soul outside of my husband. I was on the internet surfing for ‘encouragement for moms’ which lead me to one of your blog post. I remember reading as the words became blurry from my tears. Your words reached me that morning so much so that I sent you an email. I never really expounded on what I was going through just that God had used you to remind me of his love that day. Thank you for allowing him to use you through this blog. I believe that the very best is YET to come for you! I can’t wait to see one of your books at the top of the ‘best seller’ list someday soon.
First of all – LOVE THE NEW DIGS, mama! Looking GOOOOOOOD!
Second – I know it’s been said over and over, but I so appreciate that you have created a space where there is no striving, no shame, no makes-me-feel-less-than. Your home here just oooooozes grace and encouragement and my life is better because I know you and read you and listen to your wisdom and truth.
XOXOXOXO
Lisa, you are the only human encourager I have in this journey of motherhood. Certainly, I have friends who also have children, but they are the “pinterest” type, who show off their perfect homes and daily crafts. No one admits to failure or bad days. Your words are a balm to my heart every day. There are times I laugh aloud at what you’ve shared; other times, I wipe away tears because you’ve touched a part of me that no one sees. Thank you for making yourself vulnerable through honesty. God will greatly bless you for ministering to the online community of mothers.
I read because it is like sitting down to a cup of coffee with a good friend. It is always desperately needed and I leave feeling better.
Thank you for what you say to encourage the hearts of women everywhere.