Sustained By His Grace

Fridays Are Good For Pizza!

2012-02-03T18:12:00.000-08:00

A Pinktastic Pinkalicious Party!

2012-01-29T07:35:00.000-08:00

My daughter loves the Pinkalicious book series, she loves tutus, wands, & of course PINK! I was so very excited to do a Pinkalicious party for her! I got many ideas from here. I love everything she did! I decided to go into the cupcake thing too since Pinkalicious turns pink from eating too many pink cupcakes! Also Mia is a little baker & loves cupcakes. She plays Cupcake Wars with her brother all the time :) So I got cupcake & pink stuff & made the decorations myself! I made the cupcakes & frosting because I wanted to use natural colors for the pink. I think it all came out awesome :) I loved having little giggling sweet girls all dressed in pink running around with wands & candy! We had a sign to have your picture taken with a pink wig in front of a Pinkalicious poster! Even all the moms did it too! They had a big art table with hundreds of pink accessories to create whatever they wanted! Everyone made the birthday girl something sparkly & pretty! 2 of her older friends & then the birthday girl herself all read a Pinkalicious book. Of course they got to decorate cupcakes too :) She got wonderful presents too! What a great time, everyone stayed late & sipped pomagranate soda, had Boursin & crackers & chatted & played! Here are a few of the over 100 pics taken :)

Little Laundry Helpers!

2012-01-22T15:22:00.000-08:00

My kids are such great little helpers around the house; give them each a Swiffer duster & they are thrilled to dust! ( Which is great because I very much dislike dusting & I think it's pointless). Mia loves to help vacuum & she has her own "jurisdictions" as well as Eli who also has a few simple small things they are responsible for around the house as a part of our family. Well each day we do at least one load of laundry. It's neverending, a forever cycle (pun intended lol) I always had like, 19 piles around the living room of kitchen, bathroom, Mommy, Daddy...and so on for each child. So I thought of a way to get the kids involved & would be a better system. I already had these cute little baskets so I found a new home for the outdoor toys & under cabinet stuff in each box, cleaned them out & gave one to each of the older ones. When I take up a load of clothes, they pick thru for their own things first, put it in their own kid laundry baskets, put it away, then come back to each take a room & help but those away, then I fill the blue with Daddy's & the purple with Mommy's & the 2 babies clothes get taken in the big basket t their room, since they always have a lot! Works great! When the other 2 are older, they will all have their own baskets & they will be responsible for all their own stuff. Gives them a sense of independace sorting & putting away their own stuff & it's great to have the extra hands! Quoting one of my best friends Abbey "There is no cure for laziness, but a large family helps!"

Walking Together Every Step Of The Way!

2012-01-21T19:33:00.001-08:00

I love my family :) Look at those shoes! How cute are they?

Cute Way To Reuse & Reduce!!!

2012-01-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

Well I have been consciously trying for quite some time to make small changes in our home to reduce waste &save money. With a large family, I find I have to constantly find better cost efficient ways to feed, clothe & care for my family. Swapped cloth napkins for paper, cut down on paper plate use, recycled all my plastic stuff & swapped it for glass or another safe product. I use facecloths to wipe up the kids' faces & hands that are not old enough to go in the bathroom & do so themselves. Little things here & there. Here's my new thing I'm lovin'! Reusable sandwich & snack bags! What an awesome idea that seems to be catching on; I saw some at a few stores around my area lately. I actually bought the fairy one from a local store that was made by a mom in my area but proven safe. The others were bought on Reusies.com & Amazon. I reccomend both brands! We love them all & they are super easy to clean & wicked cute to use! I even got a cute argyle one for my hubby! :) Try them out, build up your collection & save a lot of plastic & money!!!!!! * By the way they are all safe :)

Homemade Laundry Soap

2012-01-16T19:58:00.000-08:00

I have been making my own laundry soap for probably about 3 years now. I follow the Duggar recipe. While on Pinterest one night I found a new recipe that looked great, supposedly smelled great, was super easy & reasonable! I always made a liquid laundry soap but this one was powder & I thought it was worth a try. So I pinned it & headed to a few stores to gather the supplies needed! First of all, I love, love Pinterest so I will be posting about it again, as I make some recipes & crafts & other awesome ideas I get from their site. Second, I love chalkboard paint; I am walking around the house with the "look" in my eye. You know the look, where nothing is exempt of the creative juices flowing, in this case, being chalked :) So I jazzed up the glass jar & I lurve the way it came out :) Yeah, I am loving pinning & playing! This is the original source. We love it! It smells fabulous I'll tell you! We estimate it should last about 8 months & it cost around $22! I had some ingredients on hand from the liquid gel laundry soap we make & I picked up this great glass jar for $10; it's the perfect size, & a 3 pack of scoops; the medium size does nicely. It cost a little extra because of the jar & scoops I bought to get started. Looks awesome & smells about the same! Why not give it a try? You can use any soap you want & may also add essential oil. It will save you so much money & you will know exactly what is in & on your clothes & it works great for sensitive skin! Try it & let me know what you think! :)

Gave This A Home For $3!!!!!!

2012-01-16T07:18:00.000-08:00

What a beauty! First I saw the red rustic heavy plate. Then, gasp! A red clearance sign above it....Flipped it over & lo....saw a little red sticker that made smile....$3 orig $12. Sold! Took this awesome dish home & can't wait to fill it with homemade baked goodies!

Amazing Story From Beginning To End!

2012-01-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

The past few years have been full of pregnancy & babies. I have struggled on & off with feeling inadequate & wanting to do & be more for God. I am home; cooking, cleaning, teaching, being a mommy & wifey. I have been praying that God could meet me where I am, & use me for His glory by using my life's lessons, trials, laughs, pain, experiences, tears & smiles to help someone else. I firmly believe we all go thru what we do for a reason, & I want to use my life to be a servant. Keeping my heart open & knowing God will equip me should He call & should I be needed, I wait. I have had the privilege to be able to connect with others & share in their struggles by revealing mine. I am learning to be content where He has me because where I am is right where I should be & my little family is so important to me. I am still learning, changing & growing & always will be. I am finding a peace in knowing as they grow I can help more & serve more as long as I am open to it. God will always use us, no matter the age, financial status, location or weaknesses. He will meet us where we are, provide & sustain & give us such joy in every day where we are, caring for our homes & families. God used Colin & I last week in an incredible way, a "chance" mistake encounter that changed us & the other person in many ways. She has impacted our life & blessed our hearts more than she could ever know.

Last week I was out with my sister for a few hours. I got a call from Colin shortly before I was heading home. He told me he got a text from a number that is in between our #'s. Right in the middle of the two of us! This has never happened before, it's also very rare his # & mine are only 2 digits off. We "met" the one who got the number in the middle the other night. It was 2 words; "I'm pregnant". He wrote back & said " I'm so very happy for you, but this is not who you were meaning to text, you have the wrong number". Minutes passed & then another text. "THIS NOT HAPPY". He immediately thought of me, since my passion is pregnant Mamas, specifically pregnant teens. He called & asked what he should say. I said; "God does not make mistakes". Wile I said goodbye to my sister & asked her to pray for this girl. She prayed the whole way home as I did in between texts from Colin. He started praying. The 3 of us lifted her name & this unique situation up to Him. She could have chosen to not respond or to write & say to leave her alone, or something of the like. Instead, we had an almost conversation going & we did not know how long it would last so we had to choose our words wisely & try to impact her somehow should it be our last connection. "I'm an atheist" comes in a couple of agonizing moments later. I am now nervous she will make a hasty painful decision & we feel instantly protective & drawn to this girl. So I coach Colin on the way home with what to say & they talk back & forth a couple of times. When I get home he says the last text was "do you have any children?" I say text her back & say yes we have 4 in Heaven & 4 on earth & how we would give anything to hold them again. She texts back which excites us that she is open to talking & responding with us. We are amazed at what is unfolding & praying for God to use us & help us know what to say. She says she is scared because of her age. At this point Colin hands it over to me as he is feeling it is inappropriate & he is feeling uncomfortable & knows this is "my thing". So I text & say we thought she might be because of how she was writing. Her & I then text back & forth & I start witnessing & ask a few questions. She starts to change her mind & the texts encourage me more & more. Then she says "You guys have been the most support I've gottenso I want to say thank you so much. It was God who made me text the wrong number & contact your husband" At this point I'm crying & write back & say among other things that she has made my night & she says "Thank you also, you have made more than my night". I ask how old she is & we chat about that, babies & pregnancy. She then writes "The world would be a better place if there were more people like you". She is so uplifting to me & has no idea! I tell her a bit of what to expect & the stages this will go thru with boyfriend, parents & such & offer my support, whether to get her to the dr, give her maternity clothes & books, pray, listen & just be here. THEN I GET THE BEST TEXT I HAVE EVER IN MY LIFE RECEIVED; "AWWWWW YOU HAVE CHANGED MY WHOLE VIEWPOINT ON THIS! MY BABY WILL BE LOVED"!!!!! I am so thrilled & teary & joyful, doing a little happy jig around my kitchen. (It was late & her & I had texted back & forth for over an hour). I tell her we should stay connected & to save my number should she ever need me I promise there is hope, that against all odds she will be fine & I will be there...She writes & says she has faith she will make it!!! She also says she saved my # & thanks me for being so kind.She tells me she won't forget me. I know we can't ever ever forget her. We talk a little longer than she says "You're an inspiration, I don't even personally know you but I'm hoping to be half the person/parent you are"....Wow. Seriously! First she is scared, not wanting this child & doesn't believe in God. Then she wants & loves this child & has courage & faith! How incredibly awesome to experience this. I felt so insignificant & wanting to make a differance & waiting to be used & do something for God. Struggling with feeling the monotony of wiping bums, faces & floors, with dishes, laundry, not sleeping, discipling, all the duties of a stay at home mom that are thankless. Then something like this happens & she has not even a clue of how much she blessed us, & encouraged me & just filled my heart with joy. Her name & number are in my phone & perhaps I won't hear from her again. We were there when we were supposed to be & she knows we are genuine & are here to support & love her no matter what. Just so she knows...

Good Changes!

2011-09-01T17:13:00.000-07:00

Where have I been? (sighing) I know, I know! Would it be too obvious if I say life happens? Summer has flown by in a flurry of swim lessons, playdates, teaching the litle ones at church sunday mornings & wednesday nghts, catching up with family, going out for ice cream, taking picnics...It's been a lot of fun to be with the 3 of them, & we've really enjoyed Helena's first year so far!
We left our home church to follow a church plant, believing this was where God was leading our family. It's been a cool experience. We show up early, the kids help set up, play on the playground, & are a big part of what goes on there. They see how important it is to give your time & how blessed we have been being part of a small community there with friends. Our time to teach a class is over & a new teacher, a new semester of curriculum & a new schedule begins now.
Our family has made a big decision in the past couple of months. May I say on our closed Facebook prayer group I asked for prayer; this was the request I typed back in June; Needing prayer for a difficult situation that affects everyone & may force us to make a decision we never thought we'd have to consider & we're heartbroken & discouraged & just want His guidence in this important decision for our child, thank you. Well we had a lot of sisters praying & we were praying together as a couple. This was a decision we would not make without seeking His guidence. It was about homeschooling Mia this year. For many reasons I will not list all of, we were praying about a Christian school close to us, or homeschooling with a woman from our church that has already been a grandmother to Mia for years. Sheri & Steve, our best friend's mom/mother in law. She has been teaching in her home for many years & feels it is her ministry. Her children are all kids we know from church, including our family friends, Sheri& Steve's daughters, who are like cousins to my kids. When I asked evasively about her taking on more she remarked that she was full & had a list of people~she couldn't take everyone! So I said nothing. We kept praying & waiting & the school was going to be way out of our price range by far, so that door closed as well. I prepared to teach again & prayed for wisdom & patience, for Mia to be receptive & productive. Well I was mentioning some homeschool struggles to Charlotte one afternoon & she listened & went home & prayed. Then she asked me weeks later if she may have Mia attend her school & really pressed saying she was genuine & sincere & would love to have her! Mia did testing there with Grammy Charlotte & loved being at her house & learning with her,& did an awesome job! There was our answer! She already knew & loved the teacher & students! She would be in a loving, nurturing Christian enviroment! We chose to send her 3 days a week; I will work with her additionally at home. I will start preK with Eli & have Helena & Carly as well! I have lots of friends who chose to send their oldest, at least, for a year or so before then homeschooled again when they felt ready. Most people have the option to homeschool, public school or private/christian school. I'm so blessed to have this unique opportunity to send her here where we all feel so good about her being. You know what? It's a good thing, or should I say, the way everything worked out in His timimg, a God thing!!! We are praying about the cost of sending her + the cost of gas ( it's a half hour away, twice daily 3 days a week) & also about the transition ( we leave early to get her there, no matter the season, I will also have 4 to load up soon!). We are at peace with this & are feeling thankful! We got her her lunchbag & backpack & such & have been positive about this; she is excited too! Mia had a half day today to get aquainted, learn the rules, see her own place, look over her work...She was so thrilled! I let her pick a special place yesterday; she chose Pinkberry & I took her to get whatever she wanted. I had a homemade chocolate pop waiting at home for her today when we got home! We pray over her the night before & that morning, & she's good to go! I have a couple of friends who work there too & my friend Carla said today she fit right in & did so well! She was finishing her lunch, she cleaned her spot, got her stuff, came & hugged me & said "Hi Mommy! I love you!" with a huge smile!!!!!!!!!!!!! What a blessing! I'm happy we made this decision & it's ging to be a sacrifice but well worth it! Prayers appreciated for her & I too!!!

$0.87 for what?????

2011-05-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

Got all this for $1.49!

My nifty thrifty handy dandy rockin green binder! It has pockets labeled for store coupons, baby items, food & non food items. The front holds ads & the back holds receipts Bought the haircolor at $1 off, used a $1.50 coupon & received $2 bucks back

Bought the toothpaste, though not my usual brand, for $1 off, used $1 coupon & recieved $2.77 bucks back which I used toward the rest of my items I wanted

So I got myself a green binder & sat down with a stack of coupons found in the mail, newspaper & magazines & a labelmaker & got down to business sorting & organizing. No I have not actually gtten into the show Extreme Couponing, it's a bit too, well you know, extreme for me. I do what works; sign up for coupons & free samples & "like" alot of great sites on Facebook which alert me to killer deals & of course I swag it up with Swagbucks. love it. I go on websites all the time of products I love & tell them so & they send me coupons~SCORE!!! I love a good deal & free stuff is the best! With #4 on the way I have to be frugal & know how to do it right! Last week I spent almost $50 at Target & saved $26. I go a couple free things & got great deals on others. I hold on to coupons & wait for a good sale to use them with & combine the two. I love CVS because they do the extra care bucks back which is wicked awesome! Today I went, of course armed with my obnoxious & dorky green folder full of savngs & ads, Mia got a carriage & we got busy looking for savings & matching sales with coupons. First we bought the stuff we were going to get bucks back with, the stuff was on sale, we used coupons, then took the bucks back & got the rest of what we wanted that was on sale & used coupons & the bucks & scored big! Everything came to $0.87 before tax, $1.49 after & look at what I got!!!!!! I saved a grand total of $18.59 between both transactions!

I actually ended up going back & buying 5 razors on sale, plus used $3 off coupon & got $3 bucks back which I used to get the Garnier conditioner, same kind for free! I also bought 3 boxes of cereal such as Cheerios & Honey Nut Cheerios that were on sale for $2.47 from $4.99 & used a coupon for those too! I bought 2 boxes of Nature's Valley granola bars that were also on sale, used a coupon, bought a few other things that were on sale & used coupons for that too yada yada, you get it! The 2nd trip I saved almost $20 & spent $13. Not too shabby! All in a day's work!!!

Where Have I Been???? I've missed you all!

2011-04-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

WOW! WHERE HAS THE TIME GONE? I HAVEN'T WRITTEN IN AWHILE, I HAVE BEEN FOCUSING ON SCHOOL WITH MY OLDEST DAUGHTER, TAKING CARE OF A BABY, & TRYING TO SPEND SPECIAL QUALITY TIME WITH MY ONLY BOY, STUCK IN THE MIDDLE AT 3! HE'S A CHALLANGE AS ALL BOYS ARE AT THIS AGE, & MY DAUGHTER IS GETTING RESTLESS & IS READY FOR SCHOOL TO BE DONE! BABY GIRL IS GROWING SO FAST, ALREADY OVER 6 MONTHS, SITTIN UP, EATING, KISSING US ALL, SAYING A COUPLE OF WORDS. SHE ADORES HER FAMILY & THE FEELING IS SO RETURNED! SO MUCH TIME GOES BY I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN, BUT TO MAKE IT OFFICIAL IN BLOG LAND THAT WE ARE EXPECTING AGAIN! GOD TOTALLY SHOCKED US WITH THIS ONE, BECAUSE WE WERE"DONE" ACCORDING TO US! MY PREGNANCIES HAD ALL BEEN CAREFULLY PLANNED, WE HAD OUR OWN PLANS IN ORDER. WE SHOULD HAVE KNOWN!!!! SO I WAS TALKING TO COLIN ABOUT ADOPTING & ASKED HIM A COUPLE OF TIMES TO CONSIDER PRAYING AS WELL, & STOPPED BECAUSE I THIOUGHT INSTEAD OF NAGGING, I'D LET GOD WORK ON HIS HEART & I'D GET OUT OF THE WAY & STAY QUIET SO HE COULD LISTEN SHOULD GOD CALL. WELL 2 WEEKS LATER I WAS PREGNANT! WHAT A QUICK & VERY UNEXPECTED ANSWER TO PRAYER! I DON'T FEEL AS THOUGH MY HEART IS CLOSED TO ADOPTION, BUT I'M SO THRILLED HE CHOSE US TO HAVE ANOTHER OF OUR OWN. I CAN HARDLY BELIEVE I'M GOING TO HAVE 4 CHILDREN! WHAT AN HONOR, & BLESSING TO BE CHOSEN BY GOD TO RAISE THESE LITTLE LIVES. WE ARE SO GRATEFUL & SO EXCITED! WHAT A BEAUTIFUL LEGACY WE HAVE :)

Currently Keeping On My Counter

2011-02-05T18:24:00.000-08:00

I love this book. It was so cheap too! I scored it used online thru amazon so it was a great deal & so worth it! I love the money saving tips & tricks, frugals recipes & ideas for cleverly making your money stretch! This is especially helpful because we buy all of our food organic or all natural & at Stop & Shop, Wholefoods or Trader Joes. I love how my daughter asks "How much is that Mom? Is that expensive?" She is learning the value of things & knows we are careful with our finances. She is learning all the change & dollars & fractions & such in her 1st grade math & is so smart! I'm glad it comes easy for her because it's going to be invaluable to her as she grows & learns how to budget. We play store & I have her count out change & add & subtract & she often pretends she found something on sale or gives me a coupon! Another frugal smart shopper! Check out this book; it's well worth the $ you'll spend~I buy all my books used from Barnes, Half.com or Amazon, so check one of those sites first or your local used bookstore!

Homemade Hummus By Giada & Me!

2011-01-20T08:58:00.000-08:00

White Bean & Roasted Eggplant Hummus Giada DeLaurentiis

Ingredients
1 (1 1/2-pound) eggplant or 3 Japanese eggplants, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Olive oil, for drizzling, plus 1/3 cup
Kosher salt, for seasoning, plus 1/2 teaspoon
Freshly ground black pepper, for seasoning, plus 1/4 teaspoon
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1/3 cup loosely packed fresh flat-leaf parsley
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
1 clove garlic
1 hothouse cucumber, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
Directions
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F and place an oven rack in the middle.
Place the eggplant on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the cooled eggplant, beans, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped. With the machine running, gradually add 1/3 cup of olive oil until the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Place the hummus in a dipping bowl and serve with the cucumber slices. Alternatively, spoon the hummus over the cucumber slices and arrange on a serving platter.

I made this yesterday for my mom & I & added lots of garlic. It's so yummy & healthy too!!!!

Love This Website I Ordered Mia's Party Stuff From

2011-01-10T10:34:00.001-08:00

I love this website! I found it on a fellow bloggers page & had to check it out for myself! I got some craetive art stuff for Mia's bday party. The cool thing is, it gives the kids something to do while they're there, & they get to take home their creative masterpieces! This is the link to the site. This was my fave item. How cool is that? I'm all for letting children explore & create "outside the box". Love to see what they come up with & how their minds work! Happy Shopping!

Journey To Compassion! We Picked A Child!

2011-01-09T18:04:00.000-08:00

SOOOOOOOOOOO where did I leave off? I have to think...So that night we were laying in bed & I tapped Colin & said "are you awake? I think God is telling us to sponsor a little girl from India." Now this was a total shock to me since I have always loved Africa, it is "my" country & my natural reaction even when I was talking to Brit was " Oh I would sponsor a boy, & of course he has to be from Africa." He agreed of course & said it was okay because he trusted my judgement. I believe the reason why we both were lead to India, and a girl no less, was the day before I went to Brit's, we were reading in our Missionary Stories with the kids & there was a story in there about Amy Carmichael, the missionary to India. We just about made it through the story that out of the whole book affected us the most. We were moved to tears as we read about the evil cruelty young girls have to endure there. Okay the next day was busy so we talked to the kids at dinner & told them what God had laid on our hearts & how important this was to us & how it would affect our whole family. They were excited, especially Mia who can write to her & Eli said he will send her a picture he made :) I love that my babies are learning about giving to others & loving those who God places in our lives for a reason. We ate excitedly & hurriedly cleaned up & went to the computer. Colin & I also agreed we wanted to help an older girl too, since most people tend to go for babies & younger kids. We found out on the website that certain kids have hearts on them because they have been waiting at least 6 months for a sponsor. We naturally were all for one of them! Boy was it a hard decision! We read about lots of girls & where they lived, how they lived, what they ate, who their families were...my kids are already learning a lot about the country & poverty. We watched lots of videos on Youtube on Compassion to help them understand what we were about to do. We also commited that we would never leave or abandon this child, that we would support her for as long as she needed us & that she would be a part of our hearts, lives & family always! Well I couldn't decide for a while. the pages sort of blurred together as we prayed & I cried. It felt so awful! How do you chose? Colin & I put the kids to bed after devotion & prayer time & he had to run out to CVS, so I sat with the computer praying. Finally I made a decision, the very first girl I had looked at I kept going back to. When Colin got back I told him I finally chose. When he sat down, scrolled the page down & saw her pic he smiles & said with tears in his eyes :"That's the one I chose". WOW! AMAZING!!!!!! We showed the kids the next day & told them we were going to learn about India & get to know her & her family. This girl lives in a home with a dirt floor & cardboard walls. Sobering. We have so much. They have so little. God help us. To be content. With what we have. To share what we have. To sacrifice & give of ourselves when it hurts. How could we not? She was meant to be. We found her & we love her already! We got a whole packet in yesterday & read all about her & her picture is in a frame in the living room, next to our family photo in a frame. We are going to start our very own scrapbook with the first things we received & look forward to the years ahead. Tomorrow we are going to write our first letter to her & our journey begins................

A Part Of Our Hearts Across The World Part 1

2011-01-07T06:11:00.000-08:00

Okay I'll start at the beginning. I spent the day with Briten & at one point we were talking about adoption. She jumped up excitedly with a sweet smile & sparkle in her eye & came back clutching a precious folder. It was a scrapbook, a menagerie of memories, pictures taken, pictures drawn, letters of love & encouragement from their little girl they sponsored years & years ago. They have loved & taken care of her & have this strong bond & relationship with her. I remembered seeing Compassion tables set up at a Michael W Smith concert I went to years ago when I was young & not married. My heart hurt & was burdened to pray for all those beautiful babies, those sweet faces. It was like a flashback then it hit me suddenly! We could make a difference! It's never too late & perhaps God has chosen a special child that is across the globe, waiting & wondering if someone loved them & would care for them. A family who would teach them about His love & never stop loving or supporting them as long as they were needed. Why didn't we ever even think about this??????? Wow! Could there be someone out there for us???? God may have orchestrated this years ago knowing when we were at this point in our lives He would provide a way for us to further His kingdom & be a blessing somehow???? But with our financial future so uncertain & only one more week of $300 coming in from unemployment, why now? How would this be possible? This is a huge sacrifice, a serious commitment. How could we do this? But as soon as that question entered our minds it was IMMEDIATELY answered with a firm, yet kind how could you not????? This life is so not about us, but reaching out & giving of ourselves with a gentle Christian love. I was touched by Brit's folder & my heart was so blessed by their humble decision to take this child & make her a part of their lives, their family. I borrowed her book on Compassion & as I drove home, hope sparked within my heart & a joy bubbled up deep in my soul. I was going to save a child! When Colin & I put the kids to bed I talked about the scrapbook, Compassion & showed him the book. He covered my hand with his & said right away, " I am all for this. Let's pray about it." It was an immediate response. We felt joy & an excitement to go online & pick "our little love"....

James 1:27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. NLT

Must Have Book For Boys & Girls (Teaching Them Early About Purity)

2011-01-05T19:54:00.000-08:00

You can get this book here

Both are on $9.99

These books were actually recommended by the Duggar family. I highly highly would also recommend them for your daughter or son. They are written so well & you will love reading them to your children knowing the true meaning & they will love the story of bravery, courage & doing what is right for their King. I personally think both books are great for both boys & girls because of the content & the way it is so well penned. They bless your heart & they are great for any age! Just be sure you have a box of tissues handy! :) You'll need 'em!!!

A Desire To Do Something More

2011-01-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

“To live content with small means; to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion; to be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy, not, rich; to listen to stars and birds, babes and sages, with open heart; to study hard; to think quietly, act frankly, talk gently, await occasions, hurry never; in a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common–this is my symphony."
William Henry Channing
This is one of my most fave quotes!

I have been so discontented lately. I have blazed thru this house & given away almost half of everything. I just feel as though it's unessessary & excessive to have so many things. I am trying to scale down & although we already live a simple life, we want our children to be content with little & appreciate everything & not focus on what is not important but to truly appreciate the value of things & give them a foundation built on truth, compassion, kindness, generousity, peace, joy, contentment. I really feel as though God puts that restless spirit within me for a reason. I will never become complacent, cold or immune to pain, suffering or needs. I am changing, learning & growing all the time. I feel such a burden to pray for missionaries & support them. My heart bleeds for orphans, children abused or abandoned & unloved & unwanted. I just want to save the whole world one child at a time. I refuse to be discouraged because I am only one person. God gave me a heart of compassion to make a difference in His name for His glory. I am but a servant willing to be used by Him for something big or small. I await His call. Our hearts & home are open. We believe children are a gift, every single child is created on purpose & are here at this time in history to fulfill a destiny & purpose unique only to them. Children are our beautiful future. We are praying for God to use us together as a family to serve Him & be strong & commited to Him. He has answered us & we are overjoyed at what He has led us to do. We are adding more love & joy to our family (more on that in my next post).

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen 1 Peter 10 +11

Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38
Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. Proverbs 31: 8 + 9

Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth 1 John 3:18

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35

My Own Little World

2010-12-31T20:49:00.000-08:00

In my own little world it hardly ever rains
I've never gone hungry, always felt safe
I got some money in my pocket, shoes on my feet
In my own little world, population: me
I try to stay awake during Sunday morning church
I throw a twenty in the plate but I never give 'til it hurts
And I turn off the news when I don't like what I see
Yeah, it's easy to do when it's population: me
What if there's a bigger picture?
What if I'm missing out?
What if there's a greater purpose?
I could be living right now
Outside my own little world
Stopped at a red light looked out my window
I saw a cardboard sign said, "help this homeless widow"
And just above that sign was the face of a human
I thought to myself, God, what have I been doing?
So I rolled down the window and I looked her in the eye
Oh, how many times have I just passed her by?
I gave her some money than I drove on through
And my own little world reached population: two
What if there's a bigger picture?
What if I'm missing out?
What if there's a greater purpose?
I could be living right now
Outside my own little world
My own little world
Father, break my heart for what breaks Yours
Give me open hands and open doors
Put Your light in my eyes and let me see
That my own little world is not about me
What if there's a bigger picture?
What if I'm missing out?
What if there's a greater purpose?
That I could be living right now
I don't want to miss what matters
I wanna be reaching out
Show me the greater purpose
So I can start living right now
Outside my own little world
My own little world
My own little world...........

"My Own Little World" by Matthew West

This song is my challenge to live every day in Him, for Him. To move beyond the comfortable, the familiar & Trust Him Wherever He Leads....This life is not about me. I was created with a destiny, a unique purpose to serve my Maker, my Creator in a way He designed me for. I hope to do & be a great many things for Him, my first & forever Love. He has a path laid out before me & He has been there in my future & will walk beside me as I carry out His will for me, as each page of my story unfolds in the present.....

What Is In My Cd Player Right Now!

2010-12-31T07:03:00.000-08:00

This is a great compilation of worship music from various artists. Might I recommend? You can get it at Morningstar for only $12. Well worth it for the experience you get while listening. I love to hear my kids singing the "Revelation Song" or "How He Loves". Great for cleaning or just reflection/backround music. Many Blessings!

What I'm Currently Reading!

2010-12-30T05:05:00.001-08:00

I just love the Duggars! This book is great, uplifting, informative & honest; a look into their lives & hearts. A good read! A+

From a Pin To a Ring

2010-12-29T08:01:00.000-08:00

This pin was my Auntie's. She had an flair for colors & an eye for anything estate or antique. I have 2 pins aside for my daughters to give them one day, & this pin I loved but since I'm not a pin person I decided to transform it into something I could enjoy that was more "me". My friend Rubi gave me the leather to glue behind it, I pulled the pin off, glued the leather to the pin, then the ring to the leather, & it was that simple. It's so pretty!

The Winds Of Change

2010-12-26T18:41:00.000-08:00

What will 2011 hold for us? I feel God is preparing our minds, hearts & perhaps even our home (?) for something. I can just feel it. It may not be right away, or even this year at all. But He is going to do something. We just want to be used, to serve, to be His instruments, to furthur His kingdom, to be a blessing! We pray for Him to refine us, ready us, equip us. When you pray for Him to use you in any way He needs according to His will, hold on tight with both hands! He will answer that prayer!!!! I am not satisfied with a mediocre life, to just exist. I was created to make a differance for Him, to do & be great things. As are we ALL! I am going to be in the Word & prayer awaiting what comes next. He will most likely push us out of our comfort zone & I want to be okay with that. I don't know if it will be something huge that changes our life or something that we will do as a family or individuals...Like I said it may not be now, but if He is writing our story & planning our steps He may be preparing us mentally, spiritually, working on our hearts, softening them to what He has in store. I know He will be along side of us on the path & will guide our every step & I'm quite content to be walking with Him beside me as a lifelong companion. I'm looking forward to the journey that lies ahead!
1 Peter 4:10-11As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Whoever speaks, let him speak, as it were, the utterances of God; whoever serves, let him do so as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

3rd Annual Sister's Christmas Coffee

2010-12-21T19:21:00.000-08:00

This came out great with a little editing :)

Pretty storefront display

We were frigid!

Love the old homes they are so beautifully historic

I love nativity scenes, another store display

On a deacon's bench

I love how the place is closed & she's deciding what to order

Sooo pretty

I loved this store display

Whatcha readin'?

Lovin this huge ball!

What time is it?

I requested an orchid headband...I lova this!!!

She surprised me with this homemade headband

Who doesn't love to get gifts? I got her a couple books by a Christian author we discovered because I read one her books about sisters & passed it to her & we both loved her style of writing, Andes cookies to have while she reads her new books & a mint lipgloss she loves that I buy her every year! She gave me pj'sI couldn't wait to get home & cozy it up in, 2 homemade headbands & a little Yankee with a tin lid. Okay have I ever happened to mention that I love Yankee Candle? yes. i. do!

Cheryl with her peppermint hot choc

"My sister & I would just stare up at the sky & wonder, trying to see where the snowflakes were coming from"

Tonight was our 3rd annual sister's Christmas coffee where we meet at a coffeehouse, chat, exchange gifts, take pics & just catch up over hot cups of something yummy & usually chocolate :) Tonight we met at Starbucks & I had the salted caramel hot chocolate. Uh yeah. Pause here for a respective moment of silence. Yeah, that definately has to happen again this season! It. was. delicious. so delicious! When they closed, we walked up & down Main Street & took pics & laughed & talked some more & took more pics. It was so brilliant with all the lights & Christmas decorations. It sure was fahhhreeeeezzzing!!!!!!!! I just love family traditions & I sure so love my sister~ boy are we night & day but we've come a long way & I'm so grateful for the relationship we have :) Until next year....

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas...At Our House

2010-12-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

I made this with a scalloped square from Uppercase Living & some scrapbook stickers! I love to create unique decorations!

I could do a whole post on ornaments! Love my gingermen!

I LURVVVEEE Bath & Body Works hand soap~I also created this square the same way as the one above. It's reversable, the back is decorated for autumn

Yankee Candles are so devine :) LOVE them! The tree is a Thomas Kinkaide~ it's so detailed all the way around! Love to light this at night with the candle

This smells too good!

I heart gingerbread men!

The kids made this garland for me last year!

Love this old print

I love love angels

jingle bells!

nativity

I always love our trees :) For the first time ever we didn't pick out our own tree~Noni & Papa surprised us by coming by with this cutie just waiting to be loved on doesn't it look great?

We love all our Christmas books~these are a few

They move the tree into the next pocket every morning to countdown

Cute decorations placed here & there

Most of our cards

My mom bought me this a few years ago. I love wat it says "The best things in life are right in front of you"

This was my Auntie's

The balls are from various places, the tiny balls "b & 5" are from Pier 1 ~ They are for our last name & the number of us in our little family :)

Love monogrammed things!

Advent choc calendar ~ counting down with sweets!

Old fashioned candy sticks in an old Ball jar

pretty pretty pretty! So festive & FUN! Here's some CHRISTmas magic sprinkled around our home :)

Yummy Nutella Pastries!

2010-12-17T17:55:00.000-08:00

I have made these a few times for special friends & they are always a hit! They are so super simple & so delicious! I have to give a shout out to my friend Keri for the idea when her & her husband came over for dinner! I've been making them ever since! You buy crescent rolls, any brand, unroll & fill them with Nutella, roll them up & brush the top with either egg whites or milk, then sprinkle the tops lightly with raw sugar. Bake @ 375o for about 8 minutes. When they come out, I put a light dusting of confectionery sugar on top...looks so pretty! Some variations could be to fill them with jams or peanut or almond butter. I like to put raspberry jam & top it with white chocolate when they are done! Love it! They are reasonable to buy the ingredients, simple to make & irresistible to enjoy! Have fun making your own kind of pastries! Yummo!

My Heart Is So Blessed

2010-12-17T07:55:00.000-08:00

I just have to share this beautiful music that touched my heart. Some music is reflectory, meditative & brings your heart & soul quietly before Him. My dear friend Briten came over last week & brought me a cd that has changed her worship & brought her closer to His feet. We popped it in & I immediately felt ushered into a peace & calmness. The words & music are quiet, calm, simple, pure. Written out scripture & love for our Creator are sung with sincerity & passion. The woman who writes the songs is a homeschooling mom. She is also Briten's aunt. Her cousins sing with their mom to bring a beautiful harmony. The name of the cd is "Nothing Will I Withold" & the words are sweet & lovely & feel as though you are reading pages out of her journal, they are so honest & real. Check out her blog; http://theoutpouringsofmyheart.blogspot.com/ & her website http://living-water-productions.com/. You will be most blessed.....I will be sharing her words & music with unsaved family & friends....

Iced Mocha Frappes by Paula Deen

2010-12-11T19:38:00.000-08:00

I JUST LOVE TO COOK & BAKE FOR MY FAMILY ALL DIFFERANT KINDS OF FOODS & LOVE TO EXPERIMENT WITH INGREDIENTS & SAVOR TASTE & COMFORT BY FEEDING THE SENSES AS WELL. THAT'S WHY I LOVE FOOD NETWORK, & THE FOOD NETWORK WEBSITE. FOOD IS COMFORTING, NOURISHING, HEALTH. IT'S IN MY OLIVE OIL BLOOD I SUPPOSE, BEING ITALIAN WE LOVE TO MANJA MANJA! LOL! I LOVE TO FEED PEOPLE & BEING IN MY KITCHEN & SERVING MY FAMILY BRINGS ME JOY! IT'S SUCH A SIMPLE THING; FEEDING OTHERS. IT'S NOT A CHOICE, WE ALL HAVE TO EAT, & AS A MOM I HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF MY KIDS & MAKE SURE THEY ARE GETTING A WELL BALANCED HEALTHY NATURAL DIET. BUT I CHOSE TO FIND JOY IN FOOD! I LOVE THAT MY KIDS LOVE TO BE IN THE KITCHEN WITH ME & HELP & COLIN & I LOVE TO WORK TOGETHER TO CREATE A GREAT MEAL. MY WHOLE FAMILY IS PRETTY HOOKED ON FOOD NETWORK TOO! THE KIDS LOVE LEARNING & TASTING & BEING A PART OF WHAT IS SO IMPORTANT TO LIFE; FOOD! WE WERE WATCHING FN THE OTHER NIGHT TOGETHER & ONE OF MY FAVE CHEFS WAS ON; PAULA DEEN. LOVE HER! AT THE END OF THE MEAL SHE MADE THESE ICED MOCHA FRAPPES. I AM HOPELESSLY & SHAMELESSLY ADDICTED TO COFFEE & COFFEE DRINKS SO I OF COURSE JOTTED DOWN THE RECIPE ( I ALWAYS HAVE MY RECIPE BOX CLOSE BY WHEN I WATCH FN) & MADE THEM FOR COLIN & I. THEY. WERE. SO. DELICIOUS! SUPER EASY, SUPER SMOOTH & CREAMY. I ADDED SHAVED CHOC & REAL WHIPPED CREAM ON TOP AS WELL, OF COURSE, IT'S ALL ABOUT THE PRESENTATION! WE TOASTED & ENJOYED OUR "COFFEEHOUSE" DRINKS TOGETHER IN THE MIDST OF CHORES, KIDS, LIFE....BUT WHEN YOU START THE DAY OUT WITH A SMOOTH COFFEE DRINK THAT TASTES THAT GOOD; YOU CAN TACKLE ANYTHING THAT COMES YOUR WAY & IT'S EVEN BETTER BECAUSE YOU MADE IT YOURSELF! HERE'S THE LINK! CHEERS!!!! :)

Tale of 3 Trees ~A Traditional Folk Tale

2010-12-04T19:26:00.000-08:00

Once upon a mountain top, three little trees stood and dreamed of what they wanted to become when they grew up.The first little tree looked up at the stars twinkling like diamonds above him. "I want to hold treasure," he said. "I want to be covered with gold and filled with precious stones. I will be the most beautiful treasure chest in the world!"The second little tree looked out at the small stream trickling by on its way to the ocean. "I want to be a strong sailing ship," he said. "I want to travel mighty waters and carry powerful kings. I will be the strongest ship in the world!"The third little tree looked down into the valley below where busy men and busy women worked in a busy town. "I don't want to leave this mountain top at all," she said. "I want to grow so tall that when people stop to took at me they will raise their eyes to heaven and think of God. I will be the tallest tree in the world!"Years passed. The rains came, the sun shone, and the little trees grew tall.One day three woodcutters climbed the mountain.The first woodcutter looked at the first tree and said, "This tree is beautiful. It is perfect for me." With a swoop of his shining ax, the first tree fell."Now I shall be made into a beautiful chest," thought the first tree. "I shall hold wonderful treasure."The second woodcutter looked at the second tree and said, "This tree is strong. It is perfect for me." With a swoop of his shining ax, the second tree fell."Now I shall sail mighty waters," thought the second tree. "I shall be a strong ship fit for kings!"The third tree felt her heart sink when the last woodcutter looked her way. She stood straight and tall and pointed bravely to heaven.But the woodcutter never even looked up. "Any kind of tree will do for me," he muttered. With a swoop of his shining ax, the third tree fell.The first tree rejoiced when the woodcutter brought him to a carpenter's shop, but the busy carpenter was not thinking about treasure chests. Instead his work-worn hands fashioned the tree into a feed box for animals.The once-beautiful tree was not covered with gold or filled with treasure. He was coated with sawdust and filled with hay for hungry farm animals.The second tree smiled when the woodcutter took him to a shipyard, but no mighty sailing ships were being made that day. Instead the once-strong tree was hammered and sawed into a simple fishing boat.Too small and too weak to sail an ocean or even a river, he was taken to a little lake. Every day he brought in loads of dead, smelly fish.The third tree was confused when the woodcutter cut her into strong beams and left her in a lumberyard."What happened?" the once-tall tree wondered. "All I ever wanted to do was stay on the mountain top and point to God."Many, many days and nights passed. The three trees nearly forgot their dreams.But one night golden starlight poured over the first tree as a young woman placed her newborn baby in the feed box."I wish I could make a cradle for him," her husband whispered.The mother squeezed his hand and smiled as the starlight shone on the smooth and sturdy wood. "This manger is beautiful," she said.And suddenly the first tree knew he was holding the greatest treasure in the world.One evening, many years later, a tired traveler and his friends crowded into the old fishing boat. The traveler fell asleep as the second tree quietly sailed out into the lake.Soon a thrashing storm arose. The little tree shuddered. He knew he did not have the strength to carry so many passengers safely through the wind and rain.The tired man awakened. He stood up, stretched out his hand, and said, "Peace, be still!" The storm stopped as quickly as it had begun.And suddenly the second tree knew he was carrying the King of heaven and earth.One Friday morning, the third tree was startled when her beams were yanked from the forgotten woodpile. She flinched as she was carried through an angry, jeering crowd. She shuddered when soldiers nailed a man's hands to her.She felt ugly and harsh and cruel.But on Sunday morning, when the sun rose and the earth trembled with joy beneath her, the third tree knew that God's love had changed everything.It had made the first tree beautiful.It had made the second tree strong.And every time people thought of the third tree, they would think of God.That was better than being the tallest tree in the whole world.

SOME OF MY CREATIONS & A GIVEAWAY!

2010-11-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

Just some things that I have created in the past couple of weeks...Leave a comment to tell me what designs or styles you'd like or would purchase & link back to my blog for a chance to win a free gift!

Homemade Matching hair accessories made by..ME!!!!

2010-11-21T15:22:00.000-08:00

Every Christmas I dress my kids in red, black & white. This Christmas I have my daughters in red black & white of course, but they are going to match in similar outfits with Scottie dogs on them. I was shopping online at Ebay, Gymboree & a few specialty online shops for hair accessories to compliment the outfits. I mentioned it to Keri & she sugested I make my own for the girls. We went to Joann & I bought black & white ribbon & I found Scottie dog buttons & she provided red felt. I cut the ribbons into loops, glued them & made bows with red felt circles on the bottom & in the middle, put black ribbon through it, glued it & secured it to a headband. They came out so cute! How adorable will they look wearing these together! Love them!

Pumpkin Everything!

2010-11-20T17:37:00.000-08:00

It's Autumn & pumpkin is finding it's way into breads, cakes, pies & coffees to name a few places it can be found for a limited time during ths season. This morning after feeding baby girl & laying her on Daddy's chest so they could sleep in, I got to work making breakfast. I made a basic pancake mix, then stirred in lots of McCormick pumpkin spice seasoning. It just adds so much to a simple yummy breakfast favorite & the family loved them! Another great way to include that pumpkin is to brew a pot of coffee & sprinkle some of the spice into the coffee grinds. If you're not a fan of pumpkin, like me, you can add some applesauce, allspice, nutmeg & clove to make an apple pie flavor. I prefer that myself. Whatever you like, mix it up & don't be afraid to add your own creative flair!

BLACK CMAS 10

2010-11-13T04:51:00.001-08:00

Family Wall Red Christmas Card

Get custom photo Christmas cards online at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Getting Ready For Christmas...At Shutterfly!!!

2010-11-09T16:12:00.000-08:00

I am getting ready to create & send out some beautiful Christmas cards! We had a photo shoot in our home last week & we had some great pics of the kids all together & of the 5 of us for the first time! So how cool is this? I'm very excited about this super deal at Shutterfly I HAD to blog & share! I love Shutterfly- their picture quality is wonderful & they prepare & ship your order fast! Plus I love the prepaid plans! There are 3 main options for Christmas cards; folded, flat stationary, & flat photo cards! There are many designs, styles & colors & they're super easy to create! I picked out 3 of my fave although seriously it was not easy to narrow it down to only 3! These are the ones that stood out to me & I am considering using! The first is this classy Retro Plaid Christmas 5x7 folded card, the second is simple; With Love Chartreuse Christmas Card, the third Faith And Family Religious 5x7 photo card. Check them out & tell me what you're favorites are! If you do....I get free, yes FREE! cards from Shutterfly! I'm lovin the sound of that! I'm going to chose a style that allows me to fill it with various photos from our family photo shoot so it includes baby photos & the kids & all of us! I love the birth announcements & everyday designs too that they offer! I love how you can upload a picture & add a border or writing! Shutterfly is such a fun & easy site to play on & work with!!! My friend Angie posted on HER blog that Shutterfly was giving bloggers 50 free Christmas cards! You can find out more and how by going to this link. Post a comment on my blog & start blogging/sharing this great deal from Shutterfly!

This blessed my heart! Had to share...

2010-10-30T15:50:00.000-07:00

http://vimeo.com/13117038

Old Fashioned Donuts

2010-10-30T06:44:00.000-07:00

Here is an antique recipe for old fashioned donuts from a Woman’s World magazine of the early 1900s. These are made completely from scratch, as almost everything was back then.

4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup granulated sugar
4 and 1/2 cups flour, sifted before measuring
1 teaspoon vanilla or lemon extract
3 eggs1 cup milk1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon nutmeg

Cooking oil or other frying medium
Cream shortening and sugar. Beat eggs until light lemon color and add.
Sift together flour, baking powder, salt and nutmeg. Add a little flour, then a little milk to the egg mixture until all are used.
Last of all, mix in the flavoring extract. The dough should be as soft as can be handled.
Roll out, cut in strips, then slit each strip part way and twist. Cut and twist all before beginning to fry. Have the temperature to fry golden brown a bit of bread in one minute.
Drop in donuts, turn as soon as brown. When brown on both sides, take from fat on fork and drop into a kettle of boiling water for a quick instant. Then roll in powdered sugar. Donuts prepared in this way are light and digestible. Recipe makes 5 dozen. YUMMO!!!!

Birth Story Part 2

2010-10-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

Colin had suggested we take the laptop to the hopital with us. My husband who has never been on facebook once in his life was updating my status & reading posts & comments from others to us. They set me up & decided not to give me cervadil because I was already dialated, so they set us up & told us to relax. Colin ran back home to get my meds I had forgot & brought back a chocolate frosty for me! We had a great night reminicing & anticipating what tomorrow would hold. When we got to the hospital all the nurses we knew were so excited to chat with us & visit us! I was glad to see some familiar faces. One I had known but not too well was in my room for awhile; we had a great talk; she got me registered. I start having some pain; I mean seriously back pain. I'm dying. A while goes by & another nurse comes in & looks at the monitor & says she needs to get me started with an iv & admit me. They kept losing her heartbeat. They said it was decending & give me oxygen. After 3 attempts to get an iv in we're good & they have her on the monitor again. I was having a hard time getting comfortable. We try to get some sleep. I'm in so much pain. They bring me a heating pack & show Colin how to help the pain in my back. He lays hands on me every so often to pray. The contractions are there but not unbearable. The next morning they start me on pitocin & I grit through contractions for 6 hours. They up it slowly 3 times. They really weren't bad, it was the back pain that was the killer. After a couple of hours they take me off & give me oxygen bc baby girl's heartrate is dropping again. They said she wasn't tolerating it & we would take a break for an hour. I don't know what to think or expect. An hour later they start back up & a 1/2 hour later we're off again. I am checked & only 3 cm. She isn't even in the birth canal. She is being held back by the cord around her neck. My dr decides to do a section. We're terrified but know He is in control. Colin lays hands on me & in the midst of my silent streaming tears he offers up our pleas for His Hand upon our daughter & I & we wait. We read Facebook & feel the prayers & love being poured out for us. They come, take me & Colin waits outside the door. I am wheeled into the OR & my eyes are most likely bulging out of my sockets. I'm trying to stay calm. Breathe. Everyone is attending to me by their own job. They are gentle & kind & don't touch me without explaining what is going on & what they are doing. My dr smiles & gives me a thumbs up. The anesthesiologist curls me in a ball & sticks me in the back 3 times. A student nurse named Eve holds my hands the entire time & speaks softly. I am rolled over quickly & the rest is a bit of a blur. The spinal has numbed my neck down & I know I'm breathing but I can't feel it. I am nauseous & out of it. Suddenly a cry pierces the hum of the room breaking through the quiet calmness & steady cadence of the team working on me. Helena comes out screaming & doesn't stop. She leaves me breathless (even though I was already struggling!) I cry out & she is next to my face & I am crying & saying how beautiful she is! Colin follows her & gets to cut the cord & she gets checked out. She is perfect. The whole 6 hours I was laboring the cord was around her neck & with every contraction it was choking her & she could not breathe. God protected her & saved her. Our precious miracle!

Birth Story part 1

2010-10-16T15:44:00.000-07:00

What a journey it has been! Our beautiful miracle Helena is here! What a gorgeous angel she is indeed! Dark almond shape eyes & full pouty lips. Sweet cheeks & a darling little nose. She completes our family in every way & we are so happy to be the 5 of us! Life is amazing & moves so fast, a timeless journey of memories & love. God has blessed us so & we are loving our babies & each other so much; our hearts are full of joy!Everyone was so sure I would go early with this pregnancy; I had been having braxton hicks since about 6 months. This is my 3rd. I was a good size & it seemed so was she. Being a high risk pregnancy I was monitored closely & had appointments every 2 weeks, blood work every 2 weeks. God kept me so healthy & against any and all odds my baby too. Every day I clung to His promises & He sustained the pregnancy. The kids were involved as soon as I had my first U/S & heard the heartbeat & saw her beginning to form. We prayed as a family every single day for us, the kids, esp Mia never forgot to pray for Mommy & the baby. We had fun talking about her & imagining what God was giving us. When we found out what we were having we were so excited; I was wrong as usual & Colin was right as usual! My mom was there with us & of course the kids. It was awesome to call her by name, shop for her, pray specifically for her. My belly grew & grew! I was proud of it & loved my pregnancy clothes. It was an uncomfortable pregnancy but not complicated. It was hard being pregnant with 2 other young ones but we kept busy & I did the best I could to spend time with them & make every day fun & still care for baby & I. Colin of course continued to take over more household stuff than usual & took over with the kids right away. I loved feeling her move; she moved more than my others & I loved knowing she was close to my heart & growing strong. The kids & I went everywhere & did everything together; it wasn't going to exclusively just be me with 2 kids anymore. We went out to dinner a few times as just the 4 of us & did some special stuff as a family. I had a few ultrasounds & even had my mom & dad both come with us & the kids once. The pregnancy went by pretty quickly until I started having contractions around 8 months. I had to go to the hospital in my 8th month bc of cramping & pressure & I was dehydrated. My hospital bag was packed & waiting at 7 months because I'm always ahead of the game. We got the kids backpacks & stuffed them with treats & such for when they came to visit me at the hospital once she was here. The contractions intensified around 9 months & every day was a waiting game. She is a stubborn girl though & loved being in my belly; she sure was cozy in there! Since 8 1/2 months I was going weekly & I was not dialating, though I was cramping & not sleeping. By 39 weeks only 1cm! I was getting discouraged & I had been exhausted & ready for awhile. Colin gets laid off from his job for a few months & I must admit I'm grateful to have him around & glad he will be here when we bring home a new baby. We go to my 40 week apt & I'm only 2cm. I voice concerns about her fluid levels & size. I go back in that afternoon; my mom takes the kids & we go in for an U/S. We are in there for over an hour & she gets a score of 4 out of 8 & it is predicted she is almost 10 pounds! Whoa! I really had not wanted to be induced but this lil lady was not budging! He told us to head over to the hospital that night. My parents took the kids & in a whirlwind, we packed up the car, left the van & all the kid's stuff with my mom & dad & kissed our babies goodbye telling them to pray & we would see them tomorrow with their baby sister!

FREE PAINT!

2009-06-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

You will not believe this! Click on this link https://www.glidden.com/promotions/free-paint-giveaway.do and put in your order for any color paint that tickles your fancy and they will send you a free quart! Oh my oh my! I'm so excited! I ordered a beautiful yellow. I'm going to paint some furniture I have with it, not sure what else. Oh my! Yay! All those colors gets overwhelming, so take your time, but not too long! This offer is until supplies last....

Such An Unexpected Find! (and it was freeeee)!!!

2009-06-16T10:58:00.000-07:00

Look at this beautiful, solid, in perfect condition pair of highback chairs....they were in the TRASH!!!! Appauling! My husband jumped out and grabbed them for me :) They are so nice and did I mention they were free? Waiting for me? :)

Latest Projects........Picture Loaded!

2009-06-11T11:16:00.000-07:00

Beginning

Working

Done

The other keys look great on the lamp in my room

The color of the taffeta ribbon match my room well

Love these vases, and such a sweet steal at $0.88 each!

B is for our last name!

Okay, I have been busy lately with some redoing of old things and giving some new found treasures a new look. Here's that "B" I got for our last name. The kids did a painting project while I did my painting project,; the B took forever because I had to use Mia's tiny paintbrush, and I did a few coats. All in all, it cost about $6, and took an hour or so. I did a pumpkin on the front, and a plum inside and around the edges. I like the colors together because it's not a combo I would usually have done, but I was going for something new and differant. You like? Itook everything down off my walls in most of my house and I'm starting over. The "B" is currently in the living room next to my big black screen with family pictures. These nautical shells are what the kids painted; they were left over from my dinner I made. They loved it, it was inexpensive and they're adorable!

I had my eye on those lil black vases for a few weeks, they were only $2.50 each, but being thrifty, I waited and watched and they went on clearance and I got them for $0.88 each!!!! The keys I had my eye on for awhile at Joann's. They were originally $19.99, but were 1/2 off, and I had $5 cash stashed in my wallet so I used that towards it. I bought some plate hangers for the kitchen, I'll show you that when I figure out what the heck I'm doing. I can't wait for my Party I am having in July;http://www.uppercaseliving.com/ . They have amazing things for any taste or style. I already know what I want, yipeee! Anyway, I just flew so far off subject here. The keys were on a big fat ring my husband cut and took off for me. I took a beautiful old frame, took the glass out, added a scrap paper page, and hot glued those beauties on! I used the remaining 2 keys and tied taffeta around them and put them on a lamp in my bedroom. So pretty! I got both key ideas from http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/. She is so awesome! I love to get inspiration from her and personalize it to my style. I love blog land and how one page links to the next, there are so many crafty craetive chicks out there! Here's some pics of our projects! My daughter is so excited Mommy blogged her art! :)

I'm Still Here....

2009-06-11T10:50:00.000-07:00

For those who are following my blog, then waiting for me to come back since I've been gone...I'm here! It's been a rough couple of months with my Papa being in ICU for 8 weeks, then I got poison sumac and was horribly miserable! I recovered, then the next month brought a whole new lot of problems...I got the flu which made way for strep, which I generously passed on to my whole family, since I obviously was the one taking care of them, thru all this sickness...All 4 of us are just about done with our meds and feelin great! Mia broke her leg, actually, cracked her tibia, and has been back and forth between dr's and having xrays and being casted twice so far. She didn't cry once, she sits so still and watches whatever they do with curiousity and questions. She loves having a bright pink cast and had all her friends and teachers, and of course John Delricci sign it for her at church. We go back in two weeks for new xrays and to take it off, hopefully for good. Eli had a nasty spill and we took him to the hospital, but he didn't end up needing anything, it was just another of many bumps and bruises he has had and has yet to have! Colin's temporary position is up in a week and he will be once again be on the looooonnngggg waiting list for work. God has brought us through so much, He has sustained and provided for us in good times and bad, we will trust in Him and even though the unemployment is 1/2 his paycheck, we have to let God work out the details, and just keep praying and doing the best we can to take care of our little family. We had to adjust some plans and dreams since work may not be steady again for a year; work is almost nonexistent in the Union. I was not happy and wrestled with some things between God and I, and I'm happy He won, and I am always learning, changing and growing. Like I said on my Facebook; My every day life usually includes sprinkles and sometimes unexpectedly and suddenly includes showers turning into downpours, but I have a pretty umbrella so bring on the rain! :)

Thrifty Ideas That Make A Differance

2009-05-26T11:55:00.000-07:00

See that frame? Got it for $2.97 from $14.99 bc there's a crack in the glass in one of the picture protectors...also I got that awesome plum container for $2 at an estate sale place

This is an idea of what I may do in my kitchen over our table, this is the wall you face when you walk in, I need to paint the B

My new red door!

click on picture to read saying I wrote

writing

Chalkboard paper

New vase, new flowers

After, with flowers from Amanda and Jared!

Vase before

Here are a few projects we have done and I never got around to Blogging about. My husband used 1/2 his giftcard at Home depot to buy me paint to repaint the front door. Mia and I picked out the same color and had some help from my friend Brittany too. We all went for the same color!!! It's called cherry cobbler I believe I lost the sample, it was taped on my door then I may have thrown it away after my husband painted it. He did two coats but he is thinking about doing one more to make it look more rich and even since there is still paint left. When we are sure we're done, I have some pretty pieces of new scrap paper to fill those holes up. I also am considering a simple black stencil on the door. We'll see. I also got the idea to make over a glass vase by adding some twine to it and jazzing up the look of it, from http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/. She's amazing and I have gotten many ideas from her and put my own spin on it. My husband and the kids got me a $50 Joann's giftcard for Mom's Day and they made me a couple projects at the craft store too for me to keep. So I used some of that to get some silk flowers for my "new" vase, they were all 1/2 off! Armed with coupons and ad in hand, Mia and I went shopping for 2 hours and looked at everything! We had so much fun. Then we went back a second time, with Eli in tow and he was not impressed with craft items. Must be a guy thing. Anyway, these are my deals, because you all know how thrilled I get to buy stuff on clearance and sale. I got a huge black frame and mat that was $35 for $7.95, I got chalk board papers for my cupboard so I didn't have to paint it, for $6, from $10 (used coupon), 2 springs of berries, and 4 flowers all half off, 2 craft paints on sale for $1, a big cardboard "b" for our last name I will paint and decorate for $4, a wall saying that rubs on the wall for $4.97 from $24.99, and I still have a balance. Talk about making it stretch! When I put the saying on the wall I'll show ya, another project for my husband whenever we actually have time to get into it. So here's a couple pics for now!

I Love Cards!

2009-05-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

This is an easy, quick and super cheap idea to get those cards you love from the ones you love out of that drawer and displayed for you to enjoy. My husband always gets the most amazing cards and searches all over for unique ones and always writes something so beautiful it makes my heart melt. These on the line are some from him. They are above my dresser on my side of the bed. The others are from him and my kids stuck in an old sign about family. I love the way it looks and I love to look at them and they are all dated too by the way! I used pretty clear blue tacks to hold the line up and twine and mini clothespins from Walmart. You can make one anywhere for art projects, cards or pictures in any room!

Oh My!!!!!

2009-05-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

I am so beyond excited! In my last post, I wrote about Robin Jones Gunn, my favorite author. She sends out a newsletter every month called Robin's Nest, you can sign up for it at robinjonesgunn.com. She posted about a contest she was having to give away 15 copies of her newest book from the Sisterchicks series; Sisterchicks in Wooden Shoes. The rules were to post a blog promoting her book on your online site or blog and send her the link. I posted the blog here and on Facebook. She sent me an email yesterday already and told me I was one of the 15 chosen! She is going to mail me her book and AUTOGRAPH it. Are you kidding? Yeah, I screamed. Jumped around. Screamed. I'm shocked and thrilled to say the very least! Whohooooo!

Robin Jones Gunn

2009-05-05T19:47:00.000-07:00

WELL THOSE WHO KNOW ME WELL KNOW I READ A BOOK A DAY AND AM CONSTANLY THIRSTY FOR MORE! I LOVE ALL CHRISTIAN FICTION AND NON FICTION BUT MY FAVORITE, AGAIN, NO SECRET, IS ROBIN. I HAVE BEEN READING HER SINCE I WAS 12 AND WILL ONE DAY OWN ALL HER BOOKS! SHE IS BY FAR THE BEST AT DESCRIPTIVE WRITING, TAKING THE READER THROUGH A TRANSFORMATION, BONDING WITH CHARACTERS AND PULLING YOU INTO THEIR LIVES BY HER WORDS SO BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN. SO I AM VERY EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE RELEASE OF HER NEWEST BOOK, FROM THE SISTERCHICKS SERIES, Sisterchicks in Wooden Shoes! "Summer and Noelle, two pen pals since 4th grade, meet for the first time in the land of tulips and windmills. An abnormal mammogram sends Summer on a quest to fulfill her lifelong wish before she begins the same struggle her mother fought against breast cancer. The story of these two Sisterchicks is brimming with hope and cheer and will bring encouragement for any woman who has faced a fearful future."

I DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU, BUT I CANNOT WAIT TO WARM MY HANDS WITH A CUP OF TEA AND SETTLE IN FOR THIS NEXT ADVENTURE WITH ROBIN, AND OUR CHERISHED SISTERCHICKS! CELEBRATE THE PRICELESS GIFT OF FRIENDSHIP WITH AN OPEN HEART AND AN OPEN BOOK!

Ten Reasons...

2009-05-01T05:29:00.000-07:00

I just got this in an email newsletter from The Old Schoolhouse magazine and I thought I'd share with my fellow homeschooling sisters!! Read until the end for a brief message from me...

1)God called us to homeschool our children, and He'll provide the strength we need.
2)The curriculum in public schools is not from a Christian worldview.
3)I don't want my children exposed to sin, bullying, popularity contests, and other fun "socialization" on a daily basis.
4)Homeschooling lets my children be who they are and grow strong in their beliefs before entering the hostile environment of "the world."
5)Homeschooling allows my children to learn their difficult subjects in an environment free from ridicule.
6)Homeschooling allows my children to wiggle, take a break, or change subjects whenever they need to restore their focus.
7)Homeschooling saves me time and money, not having to participate in all the public school fund-raisers and activities.
8)Homeschooling builds family unity, family culture, and family memories.
9)Public school children keep telling my kids that they wish they were homeschooled ... so why would we send ours to public school?
10)Homeschooling teaches my children to love and serve others as they work together each day and learn to get along with each other

These are someone else reasons, but I thought they were pretty good. I can agree and add my own also. Like with anything, there are pros and cons to both schooling and homeschooling. It's a family decision and God may ask you to send your little lights to school. Everything is part of His plan. My nieces are not homeschooled and they are kind to their friends and good examples and good students. They love school and sharing God's love when appropriate. You never know who God can and will use. Be open to anything and pray pray pray. I believe every decision should only advance into action after prayer. He will light the way and guide your heart.

1083 Crosses & A Church Called Home

2009-04-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

Mia (4) Dominique (8) They are peanut butter and jelly those two! What a sweet girl with a heart of compassion, loves her Lord and prays with earnest, Polite and respectful and kind, she is a sweet wonderful friend and influence! Mia adores her and it is fully returned! She's so blessed to have friends of differant ages!
Elijah (6) and Elijah (1 1/2) Two buddies! They pal around together and like so many of the same things, and get along well but Elijah has a soft spot for Mia and says he likes her, calling her name and following her around and gently teasing her! He reads to her and shares all his toys!

I'm so proud of our youth and preteens. We have such an amazing group of dedicated young people in our church with such kind willing hearts to serve Him and live for Him. Last weekend, the senior high group took part in the 30 hour famine, staying together to pray and fast and grow in His faith and knowledge. They raised (not sure of the exact amount) money to contribute to an effort to end hunger for young children around the world. They are a remarkable people. During this fast, they painted 1083 crosses. The number 1083 represents how many children die every hour all over the world due to poverty or poverty related illnesses. They went around the parking lot during sunday school and church and put 1 cross on every single car til they were all gone. Then at the altar call, they all went forward as a collective group with Brother Woodward leading them and bowed down and prayed for every single car and the family inside it. When I saw that cross and held it in my hands and saw the note they left us I cried. How absolutely amazing!

From the nursery to the college and career and beyond, we have such dedicated servants devoting time, and sacrificing much to give to [our home], our church. Our programs reach out in the community in unique ways. We are Bibically sound and doctrinaly based with traditional values and a reverant respect for the Lord, His Living Word and His will. Unashamedly Pastor Emerson preaches the Truth and guides his flock and our church raises up leaders, missionaries, workers, pastors, servants, teachers; in many ways His love and peace and salvation is carried on from generation to generation and beyond. We have baptisms every month. Last month alone, Brother Berubie baptised 9! Truly the Spirit lives and moves among us! Feeling His presence every week while we sing with open hearts toward our Creator, and hearing not Pastor's words, but His, we are blessed tremendously and thirsty for more! Pastor will receive next month an award, the only one ever given of this kind for being an upright man of God. There will be an award ceremony at BBC to honor this man who has given his life for His Father and His Father's calling, which is his ministry. Other than our own home, in our church with our family we feel home, and hope to be used for whatever He may need in the coming years as our children and we grow as individuals and as a family. Our church is warm, for a church this size we know each other by name and we are a community. Anyone is welcome to come as you are and will be received with love and generosity. For more information on our church please visit osbc.org. If not this church, find one you can call home, one you are happy in, feel called to, and give your heart and life to your Heavenly Father who awaits you! There are many good churches out there, if you are searching, you will find what you are looking for and you will be fulfilled! Peace be with you, and many blessings on your life!

Easter Concert Pictures

2009-04-27T17:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry! It has definately been awhile since I've blogged, I've been super busy! To tell you the truth, When I do come on the computer I am on Facebook. How have you all been? We are awesome! Easter was fantastic, His presence was felt and the Spirit was moving! The concert on that Friday night was indescribable! It was my first, and some of my friend's firsts as well. Several people came forward to accept Christ in their hearts and several wrote to John praising the night's music, the dedication, the performance. The most amazing part for me, and I know it was John's favorite too was the end when we all came down on the stairs and sang the Marvelous light medly with Shine Your Light. Everyone young and old, all over the building held up their lights together in the darkness. It was exhilerating! We are blessed to be used for His glory, for His purpose, and for one mission. We share our hope and joy from our hearts to yours. Thank you for all who attended. I hope you were touched and blessed greatly.

THE WONDER OF THE CROSS EASTER CONCERT

2009-04-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

I AM SO VERY EXCITED FOR OUR EASTER CONCERT! I HAVE ONLY BEEN IN THE CHOIR FOR A FEW MONTHS AND SING EVERY SUNDAY BUT I AM SO EXCITED I CAN'T HARDLY STAND IT! IT IS NOW 8 DAYS AWAY! WE HAVE BEEN PRACTICING, MEDITATING ON HIS WORD, MEMORIZING, SPENDING LOTS OF TIME TOGETHER, PRAYING, SINGING AND WORSHIPPING, ASKING HIS BLESSING ON THE PRODUCTION WE WILL PERFORM FOR HIM, AND HIS GLORY BE SEEN. I EVEN WROTE TO KLOVE AND ASKED IF THEY WOULD PUT OUR CHURCH AND THIS EVENT ON THEIR WEBSITE AND THEY ACCEPTED AND WILL ALSO ADVERTISE IT ON THE RADIO! LAST YEAR WE HAD OVER 1200 PEOPLE PRESENT WHO WERE HOPEFULLY BLESSED AND TOUCHED BY WHAT THEY SAW AND HEARD. THIS YEAR WE HOPE AND PRAY OUR VOICES BLEND AS ONE TO BRING THIS AWESOME MESSAGE OF TRAGEDY AND TRIUMPH, SORROW, GRACE, MERCY, FORGIVENESS, JOY, PROMISES AND PEACE. IT WILL BE TOLD THROUGH NARRATION, SPECIAL EFFECTS, SEVERAL SOLOISTS AND SONG. CONSIDER JOINING US AND SEE AND HEAR THE STORY OF CHRIST'S DEATH, BURIAL AND RESURRECTION IN A WAY YOU HAVE NEVER BEFORE. HAPPY EASTER TO YOUR FAMILY AND REMEMBER THE REASON WHY WE CELEBRATE THIS DAY. PREPARE YOUR HEARTS AND MINDS ON FRIDAY TO REFLECT WITH A REVERANT, GRATEFUL HEART FOR A LOVE SO GREAT. REMEMBER..... ONCE YOU HAVE ENCOUNTERED THE MASTER, HOW COULD YOU EVER FORGET?

RED ENVELOPE DAY! GET INVOLVED!!!

2009-03-20T10:54:00.000-07:00

PLEASE, PLEASE TAKE JUST A MOMENT AND CONSIDER JOINING OTHERS AROUND THE WORLD ON MARCH 31ST TO SEND A RED ENVELOPE TO PRESIDENT OBAMA. YOU CAN READ MORE ABOUT RED ENVELOPE DAY HERE

http://www.redenvelopeday.com/ .

TAKE A STAND AGAINST ABORTION AND DO WHAT IS RIGHT FOR OURSELVES, OUR CHILDREN, OUR UNBORN CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN, AND BE A VOICE FOR THE FUTURE GENERATIONS OF HELPLESS BABIES AND CHILDREN.

Warning!!!! Thought Provoking!

2009-03-17T15:46:00.000-07:00

"We brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can't take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, LET US BE CONTENT" 1 Timothy 6:6

I Have been waiting to write this post because I am trying to fit the whole of it into a couple paragraphs....and not a whole sermon complete with Bible verses and thumpin like a southern baptist! I know many verses that go with the theme I have picked for this one, but I am going to try to just explain the best I can. I am a trifle old school and a bit old fashioned and those of you who know my family know we are simple and plain and livin and lovin Jesus, family and life. I have had these Bible verses ( I had to slip a couple in!) on my mind and keep feeling the need to talk on this subject for some reason, (perhaps someone needs to hear it) so I am going to try and do it kindly and without too many words, lol. My post is about contentment or lack thereof. This is so tough in today's world and the failing economy. To be honest I could have written so much more on this subject, but you will get the message!

"But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust does corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal, Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be."

I would recommend reading Matthew 6:19-34. It is about Money and Possessions. It's a good reference to keep your life in perspective and prioritize. What fills your heart? Are you truly peaceful and content no matter what the circumstance? You cannot put up a sign in your house that says "simplify" if you change your home's decor once a month! You are sending a mixed signal! Are you more thrilled by shopping by the cartful at your favorite store or are you "storing up treasure" and working for Him with your precious time here on earth? (Before you get all crazy, you know exactly what I am talking about here! Trust me I have an obsession with Target!) If I was tramping thru the woods in the winter and saw some trees ahead, I really couldn't tell you what kind they were. But if I was walking thru in the spring and summer, and saw the bark and the blossoms and fruit I could tell you because you can tell a tree by it's characteristics. By the fruit it produces. It's the same way with Christians. Can people really tell you are a Christian? Are you producing? Or are you existing comfortably? It's hard to write this because I want just like everyone else, but letting those desires turn into lust and discontentment, like nothing will ever be enough is dangerous. It's also not teaching our children about the value of working hard and appreciating everything, every gift is from Him and we are to "give thanks with a grateful heart". De clutter your life today and you will feel chains break away!
Real quickly I may add that we have struggled in a 6 year trial, it's called a financial strain and it's difficult to live thru and keep praising God for what He's about to do in your life when you can't ever seem to catch a break! We have debt since Colin was out of work for a few months over a year ago and have been paying all our bills and 3 credit card payments a month and not struggling to get ahead, struggling to stay a float in His sea of forgetfulness. We just paid off our $630 medical bill we had for my teeth, and are focusing on getting a new roof put on and other things that we need. We are taking these next months to pay down our debt, now that Colin has gotten his licence and will be finally getting the journeyman wage in May. Finally after 6 years of not food shopping some weeks and making what we have stretch and borrowing money from our already high credit cards, and having to charge all the kids clothing and such, we are seeing a light coming thru faintly, and we are feeling a bit more free. It has been a very hard road, where we are trying the very best we can and being faithful and true and trusting God while Colin works his butt off and goes to school, and sacrificing so much is beginning to come to the payoff. God honors a willing heart that humbly let's Him take control and help you and we have always gotten by and will always be provided for by Our Heavenly Provider. How sweet it is to wait upon the Lord and wait for His timing, because it's perfect! Now here and there we have tried to help others because we know what it's like and I hope we can continue to do so, because I believe we need to be lights in a selfish me me me world. If God gives us financial security we want to be able to give back to others and let God multiply it and bless it, because He has blessed us with our money. It is His, and He has helped Colin provide for his family. It's important to add a personal side to this so you will see as Christians we are not above hardships. I hope you will be encouraged to hang on and wait, even tho it is tough to say the least and it seems impossible to make it thru, trust me, we've been there and felt it! God sure has been teaching us patience! He never promised us it would be easy just worth it! If we can do it, anyone can! Take heart! Psalm 37: 4 Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. 5 Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. The best place to go when you are discouraged is on your knees or into the scripture, this is from experience. There's something to be said about lying facedown or on your knees before God. It's a constant struggle to not let our flesh tell us lies and eat away at our hearts. It's just human nature to want! Especially for women! Who doesn't love shoes, handbags, clothes and stuff for our home? True contentment is rare, and can only come from God. You have to go thru the fire and be trained by circumstance and situations, which are most likely testing which in turn someday will make you stronger. Read Philippians 4:11-13. Happiness lies in contentment.Discontentment, or worldliness, or materialism equals idolotry. Be careful you may slip or cause others to.
Do not only live and plan for today, you never know what tomorrow may bring. If you are living a certain lifestyle, you really need to be sure it is within reason, because in this economy no one is safe and the way you live may have to come to a halt and you will be in shock. God honors those who are faithful and sure in Him. If we are faithful with our hearts, our time, our service, our tithe, He will care for us, and we will be secure in Him!!! GOD IS NOT BOUND BY THE ECONOMY AND HE IS STILL IN THE MIRACLE BUSINESS! (Glen Berubie) So take heart, He notices you and your struggles. Cast all your cares on Him, and learn to truly 100% trust Him. Let Him have His way in your life and you will never regret it for a second, truly!!! I'm so glad He sustains us!
"We brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can't take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, LET US BE CONTENT" 1 Timothy 6:6

Sunday Smarts

2009-03-03T04:19:00.000-08:00

Just have to write about a sweet moment with Mia yesterday. We were all playing Barbies and I put on my Easter cd in the backround and got my Barbie out and said I have to go to choir practice now, she got her Barbie, stood it next to mine and said "okay, let's pray before choir practice. Dear God, thank you for this choir, help us to sing good, Amen". I asked her if she was an alto or soprano and explaigned the differance, she said "I know Mommy, I'm a soprano like you". So we she set all the Barbies and Kens up in rows for the choir and we each held one and she sang through 8 songs with me, how amazing is that?
More sweet memories with Mia; we kept her with us for church service sunday night. She has sat through the service before, we started this when she was 3 and were amazed she could not only handle it, but do exceptionally well for her age. We should have started sooner! I love the children's programs at our church, she loves Sunday mornings, and Pioneer clubs on wednesday nights, but we decided to keep her with us this past sunday night. We were taking the Lord's supper and we thought it would be a great opportunity to explaign the act and what it symbolizes. She was so cute! She sat so well and sang her heart out at the praise and worship music, everyone was commenting on her! We talked about the Last Supper and the Lord's supper we have in church and she asked questions and really seemed to get it. I love that she can see all differant aspects and views of the church, instead of always being just downstairs. She gets to watch me practice our choir song on sunday mornings early, her, Colin and Eli sit in the pew and watch and she sings along with me and everyone walks over to say hello to them, because she sings so sweet with her Mommy. She's growing so fast and is full of questions and is inquisitive and serious about everything!
In a couple weeks we are launching our first fellowship after church, where everyone brings a dish and we all eat together after church sunday night. I love that idea, we are very family orientated at our church and the kids can run and play and the adults can chat and enjoy the company of our church family. I'm looking forward to it. We love our church and we want our children to love growing up so involved and connected with lifelong bonds there. Truly there are no greater gifts than friendship love and happy memories!

Great News, Well Deserved and Earned!

2009-02-27T10:36:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, it's been awhile. Then by the time I write it's a novel! Anyway, big announcement! My hubby passed his electrical Journeyman's licence test! This is a big deal, since 90% of the class in January did not. He has been in school for 5 years, and it's been a long road, he graduates in May, but the learning is not over. Electrical codes change every 3 years and you have to learn them all over again, and take classes here and there. He got a new codes book a few weeks before he took the test and ended up having quite a bit of q's from that. He loves his job, it's manual labor, lots of math and problem solving and fixing and assembling and installing and more. He loves it and is so good at it! Yay for you, Honey! We're so proud!

BABIES IN HEAVEN

2009-02-11T20:08:00.000-08:00

JUST WANTED TO WRITE ABOUT SOMETHING REAL AND TRUE AND HOPE IT TOUCHES YOU. MOST OF YOU WHO KNOW ME KNOW I HAVE A BABY BOOK FROM MY FIRST PREGNANCY THAT WAS FILLED IT AND PUT AWAY AFTER THAT BABY PASSED. I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO MEET REACH OUT TO, BE HONEST WITH, PRAY WITH, HELP, COUNCIL AND JUST LISTEN TO SO MANY OTHERS WHO HAVE BEEN THROUGH THIS. MISCARRIAGE, LOSING A PART OF YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND, LOSING A CHILD OF YOUR HEART ISN'T EASY. I JUST HAVE TO SAY I AM SO BLESSED BY HAVING 2 BEAUTIFUL HEALTHY SWEET BABIES, A DAUGHTER AND A SON. HARDLY CAN I COMPLAIN OR QUESTION GOD. HE IS ADDING TO HIS KINGDOM. WE LOST OUR 4TH PREGNANCY THIS PAST DECEMBER. WE HAVE 2 ANGELS AND 2 CHILDREN. IT'S DEVASTATING, BUT ALSO IT'S CRUCIAL WHAT YOU DO WITH THAT PAIN. HE CAN TRULY TURN YOUR SORROW INTO JOY, I AM TELLING YOU! WHILE IT'S OKAY TO CRY AND GRIEVE, HONESTLY, THE PEACE HE FILLS YOUR HEART WITH IS INDESCRIBABLE! IT HAS MADE ME MORE OPEN TO SHARE, IT GIVES YOU A HEART OF COMPASSION AND THANKFULNESS FOR EVERY MOMENT, EVERY MEMORY, EVERY DAY. THIS IS A SONG THAT HAS TRULY HELPED ME SO MUCH AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVE. I THOUGHT I'D SHARE, WE ALL KNOW IT, BUT TO READ THE WORDS IS ALSO FULFILLING.

Blessed be your nameIn the land that is plentifulWhere the streams of abundance flowBlessed be your name
Blessed be your nameWhen I'm found in the desert placeThough I walk through the wildernessBlessed be your name
Every blessing you pour out,I turn back to praiseWhen the darkness closes in, LordStill I will say...Blessed be the name of the LordBlessed be your nameBlessed be the name of the LordBlessed be your glorious name
Blessed be your nameWhen the sun's shining down on meWhen the world's all as it should beBlessed be your name
Blessed be your nameOn the road marked with sufferingThough there's pain in the offeringBlessed be your name
Every blessing you pour out,I turn back to praiseWhen the darkness closes in, LordStill I will say...Blessed be the name of the LordBlessed be your nameBlessed be the name of the LordBlessed be your glorious name
You give and take awayYou give and take awayMy heart will choose to say Lord, Blessed be your name

DO YOU FEEL IT? CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? TRUE FAITH IS HAVING THAT FAITH NO MATTER WHAT! WE HAVE A HOPE...."For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" JEREMIAH 29:11

SO IF YOU HAVE A BABY IN HEAVEN, JUST KNOW THEY ARE ALL PLAYING TOGETHER BAREFOOT, WEARING WHITE AND RUNNING FREE UNDER THE FEET OF ANGELS AND THE SECURITY OF A LOVING FATHER'S HAND

A Princess Party For A Four Year Old!!!!

2009-02-06T10:06:00.000-08:00

~ Watching for her guests~ new dress from Mom and Dad

~ Barbie with cupcakes

Her throne and castle and table for presents

~ Princess cake!

Well Mia's princess party was a smashing hit! We had about 20 kids running around in dress up clothing, princesses, fairies and even a lion! It was sweet, we had little dessert treats instead of party food which everyone was impressed with. Daddy made cookie lollies, and we had truffles Auntie Sheri made, Miss Shelly brought fresh fruit, we had glittery cupcakes, pretty candy and glitter sparkle pretzel rods, peppermint patties my mom makes homemade, and other sweet treats. It was a beautiful snowy day and we stayed over our friend's house for the weekend, their home is another home for us, we stay over all the time. They have more room and space to work with and were all too happy to host the party. It was nice to have the help too. The night before we all decorated the cookies and cupcakes and cakes and such and decorated the house in the morning. Steve brought out his pastry bag and tips and totally jazzed up the simple cake I had designed. It was perfect. I went to Joann's with coupon in hand and an idea in my head. I searched thru remants and found a satiny silky red for 1/2 off and a spool of gold ribbon which I had a 40% off for. I made a throne for her to sit on and open her presents. All for under $8. It's the little details that pretty everything up and make a difference. She had a wonderful time and all the kids played well and the adults mingled. It was a great day!

My Birthday Princess

2009-01-26T19:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I just want to say Happy Birthday to my little Girl! She is amazing and funny, and SUPER SMART, and strong willed and controlling, and a big help, and a dress up Diva, and comes out with these big words and sentences and conversations that kinda drop the jaw and a bookworm so much, and a Barbie fanatic, and a baker and chef in training, and an artist and a little me, and a sassy, classy mix of her daddy and me! Before she was 2 she knew colors, shapes, numbers, flashcards, and such. She excells and loves to learn. She is doing workbooks a couple times a week and is reading or spelling or sounding out some words. She's a smartie and really enjoys time spent asking questions and learning answers. She is going to be 4 tomorrow, and we are nostalgic, and sad and happy at the same time. We are having her birthday party on saturday and it is a princess party. All the kids ( and adults if they want) are coming dressed up. We are serving delicious treats, such as princess punch with blackberry jello hearts in it, and cookie lollies. Usually we order a cake according to the theme, this year, I have chosen to make it myself, I tossed around a million ideas, and Steve helped with phone calls and brainstorming and even offered to let me use all his cake stuff and teach me, but I came up with something simple and pretty. (He's a head chef and also loves planning and preparing food) I had lots of ideas, but narrowed it down and like what we are having, I already have next year's theme all picked out and will have a whole year to pull it together and such. This year, I know whatever we do will be appreciated by her and will be a wonderful time. So many people who asked what to get her were amazed at how content and happy she is with anything. She really likes so many things and is so easy to please by just the little things. We are packing up and sleeping over their Auntie Sheri and Uncle Steve's house, close family friends of ours on friday night and saturday the royal gala is going to take place and I have already decided I will lose my mind, but it's ok, it will all work out lol. I have some last minute details, and I think we can make this work, if the snow doesn't carry out and accumulate. I want it to be a simple, special sweet day for our little "princess". She is very excited! We are having a party tomorrow night, the 4 of us, and we will make her cake together and she can decorate it any way she wants!! Colin said he wants to bring home a strawberry drink she loves from starbucks and maybe flowers or something to make her day special. Aww. My mom and Papa are meeting us for breakfast in the morning. I am excited for her to wake up, but so sad she is 4 already, where has the time gone? I am blessed I have been here every day to watch her and make those memories I hold dear, and look forward to more memories yet to make.

Just Adding Some Love To The Air Around Here!

2009-01-22T20:42:00.000-08:00

Getting a start on Valentines. I made garland with all sorts of art supplies and put pics of my lil lovies in two hearts, they are old pics, but cute. I also put together this pic in my hallway with a picture from Victoria magazine, and a glitter heart mini wreath from Joann's for less than $4. Sweet!

Birthday or anyday card

2009-01-19T15:30:00.000-08:00

$3.99

Card stock card with 2 patterned papers, one solid card stock circle, one jeweled flower, a Stampin Up stamp happy, and 3d adhesive to make the card "pop"! CLICK ON CARD PICTURE TO SEE BETTER. I take cash, check or I can send an invoice from Paypal. If I start selling cards and such through here, I will create another blog and you can browse and purchase from there. For now, I will incorporate it into my regular blog.

Whoooo Wants a Journal?

2009-01-19T12:20:00.000-08:00

Anyone like my latest creation? $5.99 Write me at crazzyscrapper@gmail.com if interested. I am going to be hopefully listing/posting more as I get the time to create. Being a stay at home mom is awesome, but I am always looking to benefit from my creativity and passion of art and crafty stuff!

Bananas and Chocolate and Peanut Butter, Oh My!

2009-01-15T21:16:00.000-08:00

I just had to share these recipes with you, coincidentally they all have banana in them. They are both healthy and you can also sneak stuff in them too! I've made the first two twice now, they are super easy, fun, cheap and delish! You can play around with any of these and also custom make them, or create one of your own.

Chunky Monkey Bites
14 oz. banana-nut muffin mix
1/4 c. canola oil
1/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1/4 c. banana baby food (I used a real banana and mashed it slightly, so you still had some soft chunks.)
3/4 c. semi-sweet chocolate chunks
2/3 c. chopped walnuts
Preheat oven to 400*F. Spray 2 baking sheets , set aside. In a large bowl, combine muffin mix, oil, sugar, eggs and baby food , stirring with wooden spoon until well mixed. Stir in chocolate chunks and walnuts. Drop heaping tablespoons of the dough on baking sheets, spacing 2 inch apart. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool on wire rack . Makes about 24 bites.

Peanut Butter Banana Bread...I used Natural peanut butter and omitted the nuts...you can customize this. Who doesn't love peanut butter and banana sandwiches? Well, I'm sure a lot of people, but even they can't resist this bread! Give it a try, it's inexpensive and yummy!

1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup peanut butter
2 bananas, mashed
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Lightly grease a 5x9 inch loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs; beat well. Stir in peanut butter, bananas, flour and baking soda until blended. Fold in walnuts. Pour into prepared pan.
Bake at 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) for 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into center of the loaf comes out clean. Remove to a wire rack to cool.

Peanut Butter and Banana Cookies

1/2 cup peanut butter (at room temperature)
1/4 cup margarine, softened
1/3 cup mashed ripe banana
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1. Cream peanut butter, margarine, banana, egg and vanilla until light and fluffy. Mix remaining ingredients separately. Blend into peanut butter mixture until smooth. 2. Form into 1 inch balls. PLace on baking sheets. Flatten with fork to desired thickness. Bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown on bottoms. Cool on rack. Makes 3 dozen cookies.

Valentine's Fun

2009-01-08T09:18:00.000-08:00

My table where creativity takes form :)

Lovebird Valentine choc brown and cotton candy colors $4.99 free ship

I was at Barnes and Noble the other day and browsed through the clearence section. I tell you the best stuff happens there :) I found an oragami box set with little envelpoes, the booklet and 40 sheets of oragami paper. I originally bought it for the paper, but decided to try my hand at creating something. How hard can it be? After all it is supposed to be a hobby. Well I got it but it took at least a half hour! I made a love bird! I like how they come out and you can put them on a card and it sort of pops out at you. This is the first card I created with one sheet of oragami paper, two differant color pieces of cardstock, two buttons, one brad and one delicate prima flower from bucket of blooms. I would sell it for $4.99, and also lined the inside with scalloped pink paper so you can write. If you are interested in this card or any cards you see in any of my blogs, let me know I can get it to you or ship it to you free. If this card making adventure I am trying out works for awhile I would be pleased, if not, I have great cards to pass out and I always have scrapping to get done, and blogging of course too! I may even add another blog someday with my crations like Abbey did, but that's only if I feel I need more space for art. I just love love Valentines! What's not to love? I love to love and the love holiday is the best! I have some Strawberry Shortcake stuff for Mia, I am not sure yet what to get Eli, I just pick up little things from dollar central at Target or the dollar store and it's fun and exciting to wake up and have hearts and flower shaped stuff all day and get surprises along the way. I used to go to Colin's work, I actually did it about 3 years for my best friend too, and put Valentines conversation hearts all over and inside his car and also inside his lunchbox along with envelopes not to open until certain times throughout the day, just to embarass himn in front of all the guys! J/K! It's such a fun holiday to bake for and make pretty cards and pictures for. I have a cute idea for an owl Valentine too, so keep reading and stay tuned! I want to write on them "Owl always Love You". Owls are so much fun to make and come out so cute with mix match patterns. I always thought owls were cute but really started liking them this summer when I got my daughter 2 cute owl tees. I also love the Valentine's episode of Jon and Kate, if you haven't seen it, I'm sure it will be on again soon, I have seen every episode and rerun too many times and am still so addicted!

Random and Not So Very Important

2009-01-07T19:36:00.000-08:00

Nothing much to write about...I stayed home every day this week so far. Mia is loving her new workbooks from Noni and Papa and Eli is tearing through the house in search of the next thing to destroy or get hurt on. I got lots of cleaning done but really need to get some serious cleaning and reorganizing done in the basement and every time I come down here I come right to the computer or my scrap/card making table. Who feels like it? It looks horrible down here though and I want Colin to set up my Ab Lounge and we have no room to do so unless I get off here and make the room. Then again, by the time I clean and move stuff around, won't I be burning calories anyway? haha! A blessing to report is that Tiffany is home from the hospital and well! Another blessing; Amanda FINALLY went in and had her baby girl yesterday! Yay! Some things I am looking forward to are Jay and Amanda coming over Fri night for dinner and games, singing Sunday for the first time, the visits and playdates with friends, planning Mia's bday party, and Valentines! I am excited for the movie night on Valentine's at church with our SS class. We are excited to see Fireproof and do the book The Love Dare together too. We watched a trailor of the movie in SS on Sunday and were teary! I also need to get together a package for Abs and her family in Tenn! Val, Ruth and Abbey sent us packages for Cmas and we loved everything and the kindness and love that went into them. Right now I'm planning on making some homemade cards for Valentine's and Easter. Shelly asked me to make a card for her mom for her birthday, I was so happy to be asked. Hope her mom loves it. I also want to do a photo shoot of the kids with Lola, it's pretty neat having a buuny when it's Easter, she's an instant prop and a good one if she stays in the basket! Well other than all my ramblings, just thought I'd jot some stuff down and perhaps get off the computer early tonight for once and maybe get some work done down here. Then again, I am in the middle of a good book and I just need to find out what happened.....

I am an official member of One Voice!

2009-01-05T20:03:00.000-08:00

I am now officially a member of "One Voice", OSBC's adult choir! I am thrilled and just bursting with song! :) We are practicing for Easter's concert, last year, they had 1300 people come in one night, it is a special and unique performance you don't ever forget once you have seen it and heard and felt it. I am so proud to be a part of the choir, and the leader I have known since I was 4. I know so many of the members and feel I belong in this ministry! My soul must sing!

Psalm 92:4
Psalm 28:7
Psalm 40:3
Isaiah 42:10
Psalm 33:3

My Hero!

2009-01-05T16:25:00.000-08:00

I'm so proud of my husband! He finally got baptised on Sunday and it was wonderful! Jason baptised him and he is an amazing guy! Colin has been saved for years, but we had not joined officially at OSBC until this past summer, even though we have been back since Mia was a couple months old. I grew up at OSBC and I LOVE it so much! We both are at home there and want our children to be raised up in that church and we want to be active involved members. I am so proud of Colin, he has always stood out at work and refusing to conform to what others acted or talked like. Instead he always chooses to walk away and keep his mouth and heart and ears pure as possible in construction! He brings his Bible to work and has shared the scriptures, or answered questions, or just listened, whatever need be. He loves to work at the church and getting to know John, Mike, Glen, Jason, or of course Pastor! He is kind and genuine hardworking, honest, reliable, slow to anger, has his opinions, but also is flexible and always willing to compromise and see another's side. He loves to pray with his children, and just the two of us. He is a good example for both a daughter and a son. He is sensitive, quick to cry when pouring out his heart to his family, loyal, patient, sweet, spontaneous, romantic, passionate, energetic, teasing, funny, loves to laugh, and play. He is devoted 100% to his family and friends. At holidays, he doesn't sit down, he chases the kids all around, watches them close, makes sure I have help in all circumstance and situation. He can get along with anyone, but if there is someone he just doesn't click with he is always polite, sticks out his hand for a firm handshake and still gives respect even when it is not returned. He gets quiet only around certain people, but he can't help it, if he's uncomfortable, he is just thoughtful and a bit pensive. He is sincere and productive. he loves to learn at school and always gets test scores in the 90's and has gotten several 100s. People always say to me he is a kind honest person, hardworking and that Christ's love is evident in him. It makes me proud! I just love to brag about him! I don't deserve such a treasure, but my heart sings out for joy and praise to the Creator who designed him for me!!!! When Jason asked if he had accepted and trusted The Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior, Colin replied "There is no other"! There were some hearty amens to that, and as I clicked some pictures and wiped away a tear, I thought "I'm so proud of you, Love, good answer!" :)

Just Am Ordinary Trip To Joann's

2009-01-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

The coolest thing happened today! Well we all went shopping at a couple craft stores. At Michael's 2 people said we had a beautiful family. Then we got to Joann's and a woman there was quite taken with the kids. Colin said bless your new year or something like that and she was just amazed and so happy! THEN, we were there for awhile, I have to mention! and there was this woman working there and around the scrapping supplies. She would smile or wave when we walked by, nothing unusual. Well, I asked her a question after about a half hour there and she walks with me while she answers and then comments on what a lovely family we are. We both thank her and she walks away. Then she comes back and says, "I never do this, but I just want to thank you for being so kind and courteous to me". I said " you were the one who helped me in the middle of what you were doing and I appreciate it." She said " I am always ringing in the front, and interact with everyone who comes in the store and your family stands out to me. Thank you for the parents you are, you can tell the kind of people you both are and your children are blessed." Then she laughs and says, " I never talk to anyone personally like this!" I say " Are you a believer?" And she says "YES! I'm a Christian! Your family must be too!" Then all of a sudden we're hugging and laughing and talking about God and our churches and she says she's grateful to have met a sister today! How awesome is that? It just touched my heart, I'll tell ya! She was so sweet and kind, we left a note for the manager up front. Just another day, and a connection was made when not expected! And I got a whole lot of awesome supplies! :)

BEING GENUINE IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCE

2009-01-01T19:59:00.000-08:00

WELL I'VE BEEN MULLING OVER SOME THINGS AND WAS WAITING TIL I KNEW JUST HOW TO GET THEM OUT RIGHT. SEEMS PEOPLE NATURALLY WILL NOT ALWAYS GET ALONG WITH EACH OTHER WHETHER IN FAMILY OR FRIENDS. IT'S JUST THE WAY THINGS ARE AND HONESTLY, IT ONLY MATTERS WHAT GOD THINKS, NOT ANYONE. SOMETIMES IT'S A AGREE TO DISAGREE THING, SOMETIMES IT'S ALL YOU CAN DO TO SHUT YOUR MOUTH AND NOT SCREAM AND OTHERS WELL, YOU TAKE IT FURTHER, AND WELL, DO SCREAM. BUT WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DO DECIDE TO APPROACH SOMEONE OVER SOME ISSUES THAT HAVE LAID ON YOUR HEART? WELL, THE BIBLE SAYS YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR BRETHREN AND IF YOU SEE SOMETHING THAT IS NOT APPROPRIATE OR THAT YOU JUST FEEL STRONGLY AGAINST ESPECIALLY WHEN IT'S A HEALTH OR SAFETY ISSUE, YOU NEED TO SAY SOMETHING, BECAUSE IT'S OUR DUTY TO HOLD OTHERS ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR ACTIONS IF THEY GO AGAINST THE WORD. I WAS WATCHING A VEGGIE TALES MOVIE THE OTHER DAY AND IT SAYS AT ONE POINT, SOMETIMES YOU JUST NEED TO GET INVOLVED AND STEP IN. YOU SAY WHAT YOU NEED TO, IN THE RIGHT MANNER, NOT VICIOUSLY OR BRUTALLY ATTACKING THEM, THAT PUTS THEM ON THE DEFENSIVE AND THEY FEEL SLAUGHTERED. YOU DEFEAT YOUR PURPOSE IF YOU ARE DOING IT OUT OF ANY REASON OTHER THAN GENUINE CONCERN OR LOVE. LISTEN, BE HONEST. IF YOU DIDN'T CARE YOU WOULD HAVE NOTHING TO SAY AND THAT PERSON WHO IS ON THE INSIDE, IN THE SITUATION MAY NOT SEE THE WAY YOU SEE THINGS. BRING UP YOUR POINTS, CALMLY AND RATIONALLY. DON'T FEEL GUILTY, YOU ARE NOT PERFECT YOURSELF, AND NEED TO REMEMBER WE ALL MESS UP EVERY DAY. JUST MAKE SURE THE ISSUES ARE INPORTANT ENOUGH AND EXPLAIN WHY YOU FEEL THIS WAY. YOU CAN HAVE MORE RESPECT FOR SOMEONE WHO IS LOOKING OUT FOR YOU, WHO JUST WANTS YOU TO STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF. You can change your clothes, change your hairstyle, your friends, cities, continents, make sure these things don't change you though because, sooner or later your own self will always catch up. IT CAN GO GREAT, OR TERRIBLE. BUT LET ME TELL YOU, IT REALLY BRINGS OUT THE TRUE PERSON, HOW MATURE AND GROUNDED THEY ARE, AND WHAT THEIR IDEAS AND PRIORITIES ARE. IF NOTHING CHANGES, YOU'VE DONE YOUR PART, WALK AWAY LEAVE IT. IT'S NOT YOUR LIFE. JUST DON'T LET THAT DISCOURAGE YOU FROM BEING HONEST AND TRUE TO WHO YOU ARE. THERE ARE ALL DIFFERANT KINDS OF PEOPLE. IF THEY GET MOODY AND BROODING AND CARRY IT OUT AND CARRY IT ON IN THEIR MEMORIES FOREVER, THAT'S SOMETHING YOU HAVE TO JUST PRAY ABOUT AND LEAVE IT. IF THINGS CHANGE, PRAISE GOD HE IS WORKING AND PEOPLE ARE CARING AND HELPING AND NOT IN THIS LIFE FOR THEMSELVES. WE ARE HERE TO HELP EACH OTHER. THE CIRCLE CONTINUES AND LOVE GOES ON. I HAVE HEARD A COUPLE FRIENDS TALKING ABOUT DIFFICULT ISSUES AND FELT WE SHOULD ALL BE HONEST AND TAKE A CHANCE. THIS MAY NOT HAVE ALL COME OUT PERFECTLY, I LEFT LOTS OF FEELINGS AND THOUGHTS OUT PURPOSELY, BUT I SAID SOME THINGS I HOPE WILL MAKE SOMEONE THINK. IT'S A NEW YEAR, A NEW BEGINING, SOMETIMES IT HAS TO START WITH YOU. LIKE I SAID PEOPLE ALL HAVE DIFFERANT PERSONALITIES AND WE ARE ALL CREATED BY THE ONE WHO FINDS US ALL "WONDERFULLY MADE". DON'T BE CONSUMED BY WHAT OTHERS SAY OR THINK ABOUT YOU, JUST BE YOU AND THE TRUTH WILL ALWAYS REVEAL ITSELF! GOD KNOWS YOUR HEART AND DON'T BE AFRAID TO LIVE AND LAUGH AND LOVE, YOU ARE ACCEPTED, STAINED AND ALL.

Merry Christmas To My Family, Friends and Their Families

2008-12-24T20:37:00.001-08:00

Inspiring Story

2008-12-22T20:58:00.000-08:00

Is Your Hut Burning?
The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.
Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions. But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky. The worst had happened; everything was lost. He was stunned with grief and anger. "God, how could you do this to me!" he cried.
Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him.
"How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers.
"We saw your smoke signal," they replied.
It is easy to get discouraged when things are going badly. But we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of pain and suffering. Remember, next time your little hut is burning to the ground --- it just may be a smoke signal that summons the grace of God.

For all the negative things we have to say to ourselves,God has a positive answer for it:
You say: "It's impossible"God says: "All things are possible" (Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired"God says: "I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me"God says: "I love you" (John 3:16 & 13:34)
You say: "I can't go on"God says: "My grace is sufficient" (II Corinthians 12:9, Psalms 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out"God says: "I will direct your steps" (Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say: "I can't do it"God says: "You can do all things" (Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able"God says: "I am able" (II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it"God says: "It will be worth it" (Romans 8:28)
You say: "I can't forgive myself"God says: "I FORGIVE YOU" (I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage"God says: "I will supply all your needs" (Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid"God says: "I have not given you a spirit of fear" (II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"God says: "Cast all your cares on ME" (I Peter 5:7)
You say: "I don't have enough faith"God says: "I've given everyone a measure of faith" (Romans 12:3)
You say: "I'm not smart enough"God says: "I give you wisdom" (I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone"God says: "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5)

My Spititual Gifts Analysis Stats

2008-12-16T08:12:00.000-08:00

I highly reccomend everyone take this spiritual gifts test and see what they are strong and weak in and use these gifts for Him! You may also want to ask others what qualities or gifts they see in you, you may be surprised and even pleased! Then once you do this, pray with an open heart and open hands to Him as His vessel. He can do amazing things if only we are willing! Here's my scores;
http://www.churchgrowth.org/

Spiritual Gifts Strength

Evangelism 19
Prophecy 13
Teaching 16
Exhortation 18
Pastor/Shepherd 22
Showing Mercy 19
Serving 18
Giving 14
Administration 15

About Your Spiritual Gifts
Spiritual gifts are tools God gives Christians to do the work of the ministry -- to fulfill the Great Commission to reach, baptize, and teach and to minister to one another. Every Christian receives at least one gift at the moment of salvation. Spiritual gifts are not rewards, are not natural talents, are not a place of service, are not an age-group ministry, and are not a specialty ministry. They express themselves through various ministries which, in turn, accomplish a variety of results. A spiritual gift is the primary channel by which the Holy Spirit ministers through the believer. It is a supernatural capacity for service to God -- and He gives you a supernatural desire to perform the duties of that gift. Spiritual gifts are tools for building the church. They are a source of joy in your Christian life and influence your motives. A spiritual gift is a divine calling with a divine responsibility, because what God has gifted you to do, He has called you to do, and what He has called you to do, He has gifted you to do.
There are three categories of gifts: The Miraculous Gifts, generally known today as Charismatic Gifts; the Enabling Gifts which all Christians have the ability to develop (faith, discernment, wisdom, and knowledge -- qualities possessed rather than activities performed); and Team Gifts which are activity, service, or task-oriented. The Team Gifts are functional and involve speaking or ministering. Chances are, you have several of these gifts that vary in different degrees and intensity. In many cases, spiritual gifts even complement your secular employment. The Spiritual Gifts Analysis you took identified your dominant TEAM GIFTS which will help you find your place on the team in your church. Prayer and serving God will also help you see where God wants you. This profile gives you a simple bar graph showing how all the gifts relate to you and to each other, but analyzes indepth only your dominant and secondary gifts which are the ones that will have greater influence in your life.
Your dominant gifts are Pastor/Shepherd, Showing Mercy, Evangelism
The results of your Spiritual Gifts Inventory indicate that your number one dominant gift is PASTORING/SHEPHERDING! The Greek word "poimen" means pastor. In Paul's spiritual gifts listing in Ephesians 4:11, this term is translated "pastor." Although the word "poimen" is translated pastor only one time in Scripture it is used sixteen additional times. The remaining sixteen are all translated "shepherd." Therefore, we are actually discussing the GIFT of shepherding, not the POSITION of pastor. Though a good pastor must have the gift of shepherding, everyone who has the gift of shepherding is not called to be pastor. The gift can be used in many positions in a church.
As a gifted shepherd, you have the Spirit-given capacity and desire to serve God by overseeing, training, and caring for the needs of a group of Christians. You are usually very patient, people-centered, and willing to spend time in prayer for others. You tend to be a "Jack of All and Master of ONE," meaning you are usually dominant in one of the speaking gifts (evangelist, prophet, teacher, exhorter) as well. You are often authoritative, more a leader than a follower, and expressive, composed, and sensitive. Your pleasing personality draws people to you.
You have a burden to see others learn and grow and are protective of those under your care. You want to present the whole Word of God and do not like to present the same materials more than once. You are willing to study what is necessary to feed your group and are more relationship oriented than task oriented. You are a peace-maker and diplomat - very tolerant of people's weaknesses. You tend to remember people's names and faces. You are more concerned with doing for others than others doing for you. You are faithful and devoted and may become a workaholic. You can become an all-purpose person in order to meet needs.
People with the gift of shepherding make the best Sunday school teachers and group leaders because their desire is to go beyond just teaching or leading, to shepherd and minister to the daily needs of their students. The position of Sunday school teacher or group leader is an extension of the pastoral ministry in the church. These groups should be shepherded on a small scale the same as the pastor shepherds the whole congregation on a large scale.
Be careful to involve other people; don't try to do it all yourself. Work on making people accountable. Do not be overly protective of your "flock." Because of these potentially weak areas, other people may think it is your job to do all the work; they rely too heavily on you. You may be expected to be available at all times, know all the answers, and be at every function. Learn when to say no.
Beware of Satan's attack on your gift. He will cause discouragement when the load gets heavy, and pride because your "sheep" look up to you. You may develop family problems because of too little time and attention. You may become selfish when "sheep" feed in other pastures.
HOW CAN YOU USE YOUR GIFT? This gift is a great help in many areas. You may serve as a Sunday school teacher, small group leader, pastor or assistant pastor, bus captain, special ministry leader (such as youth, children, men, etc.), nursery worker or as a half-way house or other type shelter volunteer. You may consider serving as a dormitory leader in a college, orphanage, children's home, etc. Scout troops would appreciate your assistance as a den leader.
The results of your Spiritual Gifts Inventory indicate that your second dominant gift is MERCY SHOWING! The Greek word "ellco" means to feel sympathy with or for others. As a mercy-shower you have the Spirit-given capacity and desire to serve God by identifying with and comforting those who are in distress. You understand and comfort your fellow Christian. You enter into the grief or happiness of others and have the ability to show empathy which is to feel WITH others, not just for others.
As a mercy-shower you are willing to deal with and minister to people who have needs that most people feel very uncomfortable working with. You seem to say the right thing at the right time. Your personality is likely one of soft-spoken love. It hurts you to scold someone; you are very non-condemning. People love you because of all the love you give them. You find it easy to express yourself and are outgoing with a low-key, inoffensive personality. You are easy to talk to, responsive to people, a good listener, peaceable, and agreeable. You tend to make decisions based on feelings more than fact and like to think about things for a while before making a decision.
In your burden to comfort others, your heart goes out to the poor, the aged, the ill, the underprivileged, and so on. You tend to attract people who are hurting or rejoicing because you identify with them. Be careful not to let others use you. Try not to resent others who are not as understanding as you. Refrain from becoming a gossiper when you are around other mercy-showers. Do not let your circumstances control you. Because of your supernatural ability to show mercy, others accuse you of taking up for people, being a softy and a compromiser. They may think you are too emotional.
Mercy-showers make excellent counselors. However, left untrained, you may destroy yourself by your tendency to take people's problems home with you. Your empathy can become detrimental without personal training on how to deal with it.
Beware of Satan's attack on your gift. He can cause pride because of your ability to relate to others. He may influence you to disregard rules and authority. You may experience a lack of discipline because of strong feeling for those who hurt due to disobedience and sin. Don't fall into Satan's trap of complaining and griping.
HOW CAN YOU USE YOUR GIFT? Your gift is used best in times of sorrow and in times of great joy. It fits well with another gift of service such as deacon, youth worker or hospital visitation. With a counseling course, you could become a good counselor. You may serve as a hospital, nursing home, or shut-in worker; a funeral coordinator and provider of sympathy and support; or a poverty center worker. You would do well as an usher or greeter and welcome center worker or hospitality person. You may want to work in a telephone ministry. You would make people feel welcome on a newcomer visitation team. Other appropriate ministry areas include missions, committee member, furlough assistance, and correspondence helper. You would work well with the elderly and with people who have mental and physical disabilities, in nursing, and with special ministries to migrants, released offenders or abused children and women.
The results of your Spiritual Gifts Inventory indicate that your second dominant gift is EVANGELISM! That does not necessarily mean you are supposed to travel the world, preaching the Gospel. The Greek word "Euangelistes" means to proclaim glad tidings, a messenger of good. It denotes a proclaimer of the Gospel. The evangelist can either be a preacher who stands before a crowd, imploring them to be saved, or perhaps an individual sitting in a living room or on a plane, trying to persuade someone to accept Christ. As an evangelist you have the Spirit-given capacity and desire to serve God by leading people who are beyond your natural sphere of influence to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. You are sometimes classified as the aggressive soulwinner who seeks the lost.
As an evangelist you are likely very outgoing and personable. You compliment even strangers and are not afraid to ask them questions about their lifestyle - such as where they work, what hobbies they have, what's their favorite sports team, where they were born, and do they attend church. This opens the door to talk about their relationship with Jesus Christ - something you're just itching to do. Be careful not to be too overbearing or you may push some people farther away from Christ.
You have great joy in seeing people come to Christ and are often consumed with the desire to confront sinners with the Gospel. You urge other Christians to do the same by directly telling them they must win souls or by encouraging them by telling about your most recent experience. However, you must be careful not to belittle them or make them feel unspiritual because they do not have the burden for lost souls like you do.
You probably have memorized Scripture so you are not caught "empty-handed" while witnessing. Rather than waiting for opportunities to present the Gospel, the evangelist often makes opportunities. Since you will influence so many people, you must be careful to live in such a manner that you do not bring reproach upon your message. For instance, if you influence 30 people and only one of them accepts Christ immediately, the other 29 are left to be harvested later (by you or someone else). If you were to fall spiritually, your life's witness may negatively influence those 29 onlookers against Christianity.
If you are a new Christian, you may want to begin using your gift by providing prospects to seasoned evangelists and giving testimonies to those you knew before you were saved. Perhaps you could pair up with an experienced evangelist to follow up on prospects and visit strangers for the purpose of reaching them for Christ.
If you are a more mature Christian, with experience in evangelizing, take a new Christian "evangelist" under your wing. Share your experiences with him or her and provide encouragement. Continue to look for opportunities to share the Gospel and lead souls to Christ.
Other people may tend to think you are pushy, that you are more interested in numbers than people, and that you judge their spirituality by the number of souls thay have won. Beware that Satan can attack your gift by causing pride in your number of converts, causing failure to grow and learn, causing you to see people as numbers rather than people with needs, causing discouragement when converts are few or infrequent, and causing a lack of concern for Bible passages that cannot be used as "soulwinning texts."
HOW CAN YOU USE YOUR DOMINANT GIFT? There are many avenues in which you can carry out the gift of evangelism. Visitation programs are the most obvious. You may enjoy visiting juvenile detention centers or jails, going door-to-door, going to orphanages and shelters for women or the homeless, and of course, following up on visitors in their homes. Your gift is a plus for leading people to Christ during an invitation or altar call. You could participate in special evangelistic efforts, such as fairs and other events. Your gift also fits well in church planting, on Gospel teams, in migrant ministry, men's or women's conferences, and many public speaking ministries.
Building an effective team in your church depends on putting the right people in the right places. The best way to determine what place each person belongs in is by determine everyone's spiritual gifts. But, just discovering your spiritual gift is not enough.
Here's the real challenge. Many Christians are asking the question, "What is my spiritual gift?" When in reality they need to be asking, "What is a spiritual gift?" They do not understand the relationships of spiritual gifts. That is, they don't understand how a spiritual gift relates to their life, how it relates to the will of God for their life, how it relates to the lives of those around them, how it relates the local church, or how it relates to the body of Christ as a whole. To give John J. Christian an additional name and make him John J. Exhorter Christian is only doing him an injustice. Having a new name or title does not make you a more effective, more fulfilled, or a better Christian, nor does it give you any more understanding of yourself or those around you. Most contemporary material written on spiritual gifts does an adequate job in helping you recognize, discover, and define what your spiritual gifts are. Also, many do a fine job of teaching on the individual parts of the body, but few complete their teaching by assembling the body, thus showing how church members can work as complementing, effective, and efficient team. Thus, teaching a person only what their spiritual gift is without teaching them what a spiritual gift is, is like giving someone a new tool without giving them the operator's manual. They will never understand it fully nor will they be able to use it to its maximum potential. The same is true with your spiritual gifts.
Now that you have taken this inventory and know what your spiritual gifts are, we encourage you to study the principles that revolve around and relate to spiritual gifts. These principles combined with recognizing your gifts have been proven to dramatically change lives AND build churches. We have many resources available to help you better understand your gifts and how they relate to all areas of your life. Plus, we have resources to equip and assist you in teaching spiritual gifts and biblical team building to others. Furthermore, we have teachers who can come to your church and teach private seminars for you group. Analysis of Comparison ChartsCould the results from these comparison charts be skewed? Probably to some degree. Two factors to consider are 1) Results are not compiled from the Christian public at large but only those who are Internet users. 2) On the laity side, a much larger percentage of those taking the spiritual gifts inventory on-line are women (63.7%). Women tend to score high in the Gift of Shepherding because the characteristics of the gift of shepherding are very similar to the God-given instincts of mothering which comes natural to most women. Although many women have the gift of shepherding and it manifests itself in many areas of service, we believe women should consider this factor when evaluating whether or not they actually have the dominant gift of shepherding. They may want to also look closely at their second dominant gift.

Such a great time

2008-12-11T20:47:00.000-08:00

I went out tonight for coffee with an old friend Carrie. It was so much fun! She's such a doll! We talked for hours, even after panera's was closed, and it only seemed like an hour maybe? We laughed the whole time and caught up on what's been going on in each other's life since we used to hang out when we were teens. We see each other at church every week, but it was so nice to just sit and chat. I was so blessed by her assessment of me, which I won't write the whole conversation, but just being told that I was full of life and such a positive happy person was like oh, thanks! Is that what you see? There's a song on KLove and one of the lines says "what if you could see yourself through other's eyes?" I have to say I love Jackie's blog entry where she says

quote "Nothing I write on here will be too important....opinionated, probably. Sorry--- no, no sorries. I am who I am- opinionated.I chose this blog background because it looks like I think a lot. I do...but not too deep. So, if you just want something to randomly read that could possibly make you think for a brief moment or maybe laugh before going back to do something of more interest- this is it.Enjoy.P.S.- I will not pretend to be some journalist writer....again...I am who I am....including my writing! " unquote

I love it, you said it! Just be yourself! Christ is our Redeemer and He knows our hearts and intentions and that's all that matters! I have so many friends on the computer on all my sites (I'm having a blast with facebook now too :) ) so many that don't go to my church that I maintain that contact with an soo many in church. I am blessed to have close friends and aquantinces. Thanks to all of you who have written and liked my blog, it's nice to know my thoughts and random ramblings are being read and appreciated! Thanks to my family and friends who love and accept me just as I am; Perfectly Imperfect! I love you all too for all you are and bring into my life and you are all wonderful and unique! I have many brothers and sisters! I am passionate about my beliefs and life and family and most importantly Christ! I can be shy and also outgoing and friendly at the same time. I am complex and simple. My soul must sing! I love my life!

Poinsettas and the beach!

2008-12-11T20:20:00.000-08:00

It's been a great busy week! On Tuesday I got to have my friends Mike and Bonnie's son from early in the morning until after dinner! I just love him as he were my real nephew and he's a joy! I loved having 3, he is 10 months and has a little rocket in his diaper! He's all over the place, lol! My daughter is so in love with him and fed him his bottle, read to him, wanted to do everythiung for him. Eli kept laying his head on him and saying Badee ( Bradly). I even went out with 3! It was a blast! The more the merrier! We had a great day! She brought the kids sugar cookies and me a poinsetta plant! My first one! I never had one, so I was happy to be surprised! It took me forever to figure out where to put it!

Wednesday was fun, we got up and went to my friend Ness' for the day. The kids played while we chatted and had our own "playdate". We're both looking forward to our husband's Christmas party saturday night ( our husbands work at the same company. It's been 2 years since we met at the first Christmas party). After we left, I took a scenic drive home and since she lives near the beaches we took a detour. It was a grey day and kinda spitting rain on and off but not too bad. I pulled in to the beach and Mia was so surprised and excited! We ran our way down the deserted beach and chased seagulls and picked up stones. When it started to rain, we raced toward the car, Mia and my hair plastered to the side of our faces and sand sticking to us as a souvenir. It was an impulsive stop and was just a blast and such fun to hear our laughter in the wind on an empty beach. They had a nice warm bath when we got home! It's the every day little things that turn an ordinary into a pleasant memory......

Homemade by Me! Cards and more For Sale! Any occassion!

2008-12-09T11:40:00.001-08:00

This was straight and won't upload the right way! $2.99 free shipping

$2.99 free shipping

$5.99 for the set, free shipping

This can be added to any color cardstock card $2.99 free ship

Homemade card and closepin

I have some cards I have lying around here, I love to create and come up with cards, tags and scrapbook layouts. If you want to see more of my work, click on the May link and you can see some cards I made. I make baby cards with a twine close pin and hanging blankets or clothes and new home cards with a happy home on the front. I love to use ribbons buttons and different papers. I also make close pins which are cute for a card holder on a present, or for a recipe holder. I use acid free card stock or scrapbook paper. I like to make verse cards also, see my post March 24th. I decorate frames, gift bags and pencils and anything I get an idea for. If you are interested in any of these or my cards I will send them to you ASAP, and you can pay me by check or I can send an invoice via email from Pay pal,(you do not have to have an account there to use this). Here are a couple I have made and ready.

Family Traditions and the truth about holidays

2008-12-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

Just wondered what people's traditions are. I love that for every season there are differant art projects and baking projects. I love summer best of all, but I look forward to Christmas the most. It's an amazing time of year, sweet and reminiscent, preparing yet again to celebrate anew EVERY year the wonder of our Magestic King born in a humble way, a little one coming for the whole world. Mia asked me yesterday who Santa Claus is. So I told her about the first St Nick, the true story and told her we would go to the library to read about him. I love that she is so innocent and pure and has no idea what Halloween is or that it even exsists. Someone asked her in Target a couple months ago wht she would dress up as for Halloween and she looked at them funny? Then said to me" I just love dressing up, especially like a princess. " She disreguarded Halloween and commented on what she knows and loves, dressing up as a sweet little girl in her pretty dresses. She just knows Christmas is Jesus' birthday and that's the pure truth of it! We have many traditions for our family, some every single season, but I love this one we made up; instead of the cookies and milk for Santa thing, she makes Jesus something special, a birthday present, homemade with love and care and we put it under the tree. When she falls asleep the angels will come and take it to Jesus so He has it for His birthday. I love to read the story of His birth to them on Christmas Eve and every year it will become more real and personal as it pierces their hearts. I am very proud of my kids but as much as we listen to 91.1 and praise cds and read the Bible with them and try to be a good example with everything that goes in and comes out of our home and how we conduct ourselves, it is up to them as individuals to make that big decision. I pray every day from an early age they may desire and seek their Ultimate Creator. Write in the comment box, or share by posting one of your traditions in your blog! Blessings this CHRISTmas season! 17 days and counting!!!!!!.........

December Fun Just Begun

2008-12-06T04:51:00.000-08:00

December has been wonderful so far! The kids take turns opening their advent calendar which has pretty pictures and verses behind the doors instead of chocolate. The verses lead up in order telling the story of the angel appearing to Mary until His birth. We finally got our tree and decorated it last night. A few nights ago, we set up our outdoor stuff and last night Colin surprised the kids with a sparkling outdoor tree. They loved taking pictures with the reindeer and tree and down "candy cane lane" where our candy canes are lining our walk. They had a blast drinking cocoa and listening to Christmas music and decorating all the while memories flowed around us of Christmas' past with them, but especially Mia. We are blessed beyond measure. I need to get on the ball and start Christmas baking. Every year I do my usuals and then try some new recepies. Abbey gave me a new idea for choc cookies. The art you see we made some at my friend Alicia's house. Her husband and mine were working that night so we went over and hung out together. Mia and Trevor really loved making projects. Yesterday we made penguins and read a book that had penguins in it. Eli shreiked and pointed back and forth when he saw penguins like the one he created! We got a wonderful package in yesterday from Val in Kentucky we are able to bless each other back and forth, and she sent us a package with homeade hair bows for Mia, they are so beautiful! Abbey (from Tenn) and Val are friends I met online almost 4 years ago and we have remained close friends since and will always. I consider them to be among my most treasured friends. :)

Please pray for Mia, as she is battling something that has her quiet and feverish. I hate to see her sick, it seems she is always sick and it's frustrating. When she gets better the doctor wants to put her on a trial for allergy medication. We'll see if that helps her cough and nose that never seems fine.

Other than that we are well and enjoying the season. Thanks for reading, post a comment now and again so I know what you think or that you stopped by!

Paul, and his writings

2008-12-02T09:01:00.000-08:00

I have been studying about Paul lately. Having a heart for missions, he is one of my favorite and most respected people in all the Bible. I find his journeys fascinating! I am amazed at the faith and courage it took to travel and spread the Word. I am also amazed by the fact that the Bible is so inexhaustable! Every time you read through it, you learn something new, and can truly get something more out of it and examine and rexamine the whole Bible without ever tiring on any account. That proves it is the infallable word of Christ. You can read of his journeys in Acts, but right now I am reading his greetings and letters in Galations. Paul energeticaly defended the truth of the gospel which is that we are saved by the grace of God through faith in Christ and nothing else! Any other teaching is a perversion of the truth of God. Gal 1:6-7. We are made right in the sight of God by faith 2:16 and become the people of God (real children of Abraham) in the same way-by faith. 3:7. Because we are free in Christ, we must never allow anyone to deceive us into thinking we must earn our salvation. But at the same time, we must live out the gospel. This includes submission to the Spirit of God 5:16, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. 5:14. Continue on to Ephesians where Paul writes during his imprisonment in Rome. The basic idea of Ephesians is that God is working out his eternal plan through Christ and his body, the church. Paul closes the book by describing the provision that God has made so that believers can withstand the worst of satan's attacks and be victoriuos when the battle is over. Philippians continues while Paul is imprisoned in Rome. It is a personal letter of Paul's and the rejoicing within is evident. Even as Jesus had to endure the cross, so we must be ready to follow that example of submission to God if God requires it of us. But we are citizens of heaven and should live with that thought constantly before us. Colossians continues while Paul is imprissoned. In this important letter Paul presents a carefully worked out defense of Christ's deity and glory. Paul warns believers not to be lead astray by "empty philosophies and high sounding nonsense that come from human thinking" Col 2:8. Paul's instructions for Christian living stress the power of God for people and the joy that believers can have when they make use of all the resources that are theirs in Christ. Follow these words all through to Hebrews, my Bible says the author is unclear is some have suggested Paul, Barnabas, Apolos, Pricilla, Luke and others may have written it. Either way, it's an awesome book and great read. So I'm going to dive back in while the kids are resting and get some reading done. Just thought I'd share! Blessings to you all and prayers for a healthy fulfilled beautiful Christian walk with our Saviour.

I looked up Info On Enfamil and found this article

2008-12-01T20:18:00.000-08:00

This is one site I looked into, please do lots of research and know your facts. The health of our children is top priority.

Company News
The U.S. FDA Reaffirms the Safety of Enfamil® Infant Formula
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that no melamine has been detected in Enfamil infant formula products and that recent media reports indicating that trace levels had been detected were inaccurate.
Mead Johnson remains confident in the safety of our products and so should parents and health care professionals. We maintain stringent standards at all our manufacturing sites around the world to ensure high quality, safe products that parents and healthcare professionals have come to expect from us for over 100 years.
The U.S. FDA issued a statement on November 28, 2008, that said, "FDA's ongoing investigation continues to show that the domestic supply of infant formula is safe and that consumers can continue using U.S. manufactured infant formulas." » See FDA Statement
The U.S. FDA reported that minute levels of cyanuric acid were detected in Enfamil products. At this time we are unable to duplicate those test results. We are continuing to investigate. That said, the FDA confirmed that their reported levels of cyanuric acid are so low that they do not pose a health risk to infants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyanuric AcidMedia Reports
Media reports in the U.S. state that melamine has been detected in Enfamil LIPIL® infant formula. Is this true?
The Associated Press incorrectly reported that Enfamil LIPIL contained minute traces melamine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has since confirmed that no melamine has been detected in Enfamil LIPIL infant formula products and that recent media reports indicating that trace levels had been detected were inaccurate. The U.S. FDA issued a statement on its website confirming that infant formulas in the US are safe. » See FDA Statement
Why did the media report this misinformation?
The U.S. FDA received a request for the testing data from the Associated Press media outlet. A preliminary report was provided to a reporter under the Freedom of Information Act. It appears that the data reported from the preliminary report were not correct.Melamine and Cyanuric Acid
Has melamine ever been detected in Mead Johnson formulas?
Mead Johnson's own testing, conducted by a third party laboratory using a published US FDA testing methodology, as well as tests conducted by the FDA, have never detected the presence of melamine in any of Mead Johnson's products. We maintain stringent standards at all our manufacturing sites around the world to ensure the high quality and safety of our products that our customers have come to expect from Mead Johnson for over 100 years.
Melamine was not found in your product but cyanuric acid was. What is that?
Cyanuric acid is a substance that has several useful benefits. It is a component of some sanitizers used in food manufacturing sites and it may be found in chemically purified drinking water following the World Health Organization (WHO) guidance for safe drinking water.
Are the trace quantities of cyanuric acid in food a health risk?
No. Due to the extremely large margin of safety and the recognized positive public health benefit for use of cyanuric acid salts, there is no reason questioning the safety of a trace amount of cyanuric acid found in foods or formula products.
Is cyanuric acid present in other foods?
Yes. In the World Health Organization Guidelines for Drinking-Water, the typical concentration of cyanuric acid resulting from maintaining microbiological safety is approximately 40 mg/L of water. That, for comparison, is approximately 80 times greater than the minute levels of cyanuric acid reported to have been found by the FDA.
Are there safe limits for cyanuric acid and melamine?
A report issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) addresses the risk assessment of melamine and cyanuric acid. The WHO report summarizes tolerable daily intakes ("TDI") for total melamine and cyanuric acid for infants from several regulatory bodies around the world. Significantly, under WHO's risk assessment, the minute level of cyanuric acid reportedly found in Mead Johnson's products (0.247 ppm) was far below that thought to present any risk to infant health.
How could trace quantities of cyanuric acid be found in infant formula?
Minute quantities (parts per billion) of residual sanitizer used to clean formula-processing equipment and utensils could be detected with modern analytical technology that is capable of measuring ultra trace quantities of chemical substances. Concentrations at these extremely low levels, if they occur at all, are not a food safety concern and have no effect on the final product, similar to finding water spots on dishes.
Why did the US FDA find cyanuric acid and Mead Johnson's testing did not?
At this time we are unable to duplicate test results reported by the FDA that minute trace levels of cyanuric acid were detected in a sampling our infant formula. We are continuing to investigate. That said, the FDA confirmed that their reported levels of cyanuric acid are so low that they do not pose a health risk to infants.
Does the presence of cyanuric acid mean that melamine is present?
No. Melamine and cyanuric acid are compounds in the same chemical family. The FDA- approved uses of cyanuric acid can result in ultra-trace amounts of cyanuric acid in food products. It does not mean that melamine is present. This is especially true if the product is tested for the presence of melamine and none is found. Mead Johnson tests its products for the presence of melamine and none has been found.
Do you test for Cyanuric Acid? If so, have you found it in your product?
Yes. Mead Johnson tests for the presence of cyanuric acid. Mead Johnson's own testing, conducted by a third party laboratory using a published U.S. FDA testing methodology, has never detected the presence of cyanuric acid in our products.
What are the uses for cyanuric acid?
Among the many approved beneficial use for cyanuric acid, the FDA has approved it for use as a sanitizer that may be safely used on food-processing equipment and utensils used in the manufacture of infant formula. Routine sanitizing of processing equipment is an important step to our commitment to the quality and safety of our products and is part of Good Manufacturing Practice requirements.
Does the FDA have a position on melamine and cyanuric acid found infant formula?
Yes, on November 28, 2008, the FDA stated that the "FDA's ongoing investigation continues to show that the domestic supply of infant formula is safe and that consumers can continue using U.S. manufactured infant formulas. FDA has concluded that levels of melamine alone or cyanuric acid alone, at or below 1 part per million (ppm) in infant formula do not raise public health concerns."
Consumer Contact:www.enfamil.com1-800-BABY123Media Contact:Gail.Wood@bms.com(812)429-7800Health Care Professionals Contact:MJMedicalAffairs@bms.com(812)429-6399

Another Reason We Can’t Trust the FDA: Melamine is Now Safe for Infant Consumption

2008-12-01T19:49:00.000-08:00

This was surprising to me, I thought I'd share just to make some moms aware of what we may not know. Thanks Ruth for the link to the website http://ecochildsplay.com/. I love it and will have fun exploring it more!

The FDA has come out with a “safe” level of melamine in Infant Formula. Just weeks ago, the FDA stated it couldn’t determine a safe level of melamine for human infants (Oct. 3, 2008- “the US FDA cannot establish a level of melamine and its analogues in [infant formula] that does not raise public health concerns.”).
Of course there isn’t a safe level, look what happened in China. (Melamine was added in China Formulas to fool protein content tests and was at a much higher level than what was found in U.S. Formula Brands. At least 3 infants died from contaminated formula in China.)While watching CBS news this evening, I was SHOCKED to hear Dr. Daniel Rauch, a pediatrician at New York University’s Langone Medical Center state “We think it’s safe.” Since when is THINKING something is safe okay? Is this an innocent until proven guilty situation? Do CHILDREN HAVE TO DIE before our government steps up to the plate?
» Read more on Health
» See peer reviews of Vitamins, Supplements and Herbal Remedies at Green Home
Dr. Rauch went on to say, “But the bottom line is that we don’t really know, and zero would be best.” Despite this, the FDA has set a safe level for melamine (and related chemicals like cyanuric acid) at 1 ppm (one part per million). All three major formula manufacturers have tested positive for levels of melamine at less than 1 ppm.
CBS gives this advice to parents looking for an alternative, “about 90 percent of all infant formulas produced in the U.S. are made by the three companies whose products tested positive for contaminants.” (Enfamil, Good Start and Similac all have tested positive for melamine or cyanuric acid. No samples have tested positive for both contaminants.) In other words, if you formula feed your child, there is NO SAFE ALTERNATIVE. You can’t backtrack and start breastfeeding months into your child’s life. Infants not breastfed MUST be fed infant formula or they risk malnutrition and its serious health risks.
This asinine move by the FDA reaffirms that they are not to be trusted. According to the FDA; BPA is safe, Melamine is safe, FD&C Food Colorants are safe, BHT & BHA are safe… AT THE LEVELS USED IN OUR FOOD, what happens when all these so called safe levels are combined in our bodies over a lifetime. Death? Cancer? ADHD? Fatigue? IBS? Birth Defects?
We cannot allow our children to be treated like test rats! The FDA is exhibiting more concern over corporate America than the health and well being of American children.
So, what do we do? We get the word out. We let the FDA and related government know that we will not stand for this continued ignorance! Demand they begin to set safety standards based on science not on big business. If you are an expectant parent, BREASTFEED (at least until a safe formula supply is available) because we don’t know what potential dangers the current contaminated formulas could represent. If you are feeding your child infant formula, check the FDA test list to see if there is an alternative that has tested negative for melamine and cyanuric acid. If there isn’t an alternative, check with your pediatrician. Chances are good that you should continue to feed your child the formula, this is a measured evils situation. We know malnutrition arising from improper feeding is deadly. Whatever you do… DO NOT STOP feeding your baby (less than 12 months old) infant formula or breastmilk. That is a decision that could prove tragic.

It's Been Awhile

2008-11-24T18:55:00.001-08:00

Mia and Eli's Snowmen

Mia's space in the kitchen..a little messy, I know! :) We're working on it!

Half of the snowflakes, we made about double this

Our cinnamon ornaments. Just add pretty ribbon or twine

Little hands working hard

Recipe

Mia's Highlights, whrer we got the recipe

Hello! Hello! It has indeed been awhile! We are filling the days here. Last week Mom and I updated in the kitchen Mia's "classroom workspace"and we brought her desk upstairs and she loves to sit at it and do art. We haven't done too much in the way of schoolwork or workbooks bc she finished the ones she had. She is getting more for Christmas from Noni and Papa. We have been doing a lot of baking and pretty art projects for Christmas. One thing we made is cinnamon and applesauce ornaments. I remember making these with my mom and sister when I was little. She was always very active in our lives and always cooking baking and doing art projects with us. It shows today because my sister and I are crafty and love to make projects with our own kids now. We both love to cook and bake as well. She however is a great hostess and I prefer to be behind the scenes more, although I do enjoy having people over. So they came out wonderful. They smell good too, and they were fun and easy. Mia and I made these together. I took a pic of the recipe, can you read it? We made a trip to the library and got a huge stack of books, the three of us, and Eli nearly destroyed the children's center, lol! I'm grateful for his big sister who really helps me out alot when I feel overwhelmed. It's really hard having a boy! If he's not in the trash, or tearing thru everything in sight, he's getting hurt, breaking something or climbing and performing acrobatics off anything he can get on! Okay, so maybe I'm a bit dramatic, but he's so active and he's got that charming smile he flashes before he touches something he shouldn't! Thank God for that easy going nature and quick smile, he's so sweet but definately a handful!!! The other things we made, it took two days because we had to trace and cut them all out, was white snowflakes with light blue glitter. They were fun and messy! We decorated the house with all our Christmas stuff and listened to Christmas music. I got some baking done too. I am making two pies for wednesday night's Pie and Praise night at church. I am looking forward to being blessed and the wonderful fellowship of our church family. Our church is another home to us, we love it deeply in our hearts! I'm also really looking forward to Thanksgiving because my cousin Ruth and her family Eddie and Eva are coming home (from VA) to her mom's, my Aunt Kathy's house! I am so excited to see them, and Thanksgiving is always so nice at their house. We got some invites for dessert, but are undecided. I still have to finish baking for Thursday.

I have joined facebook finally and am really enjoying it immensely! It's a blast! I am reconnecting with friends in other states and churches with their own families. I am trying to maintain my other sites as well. My friend who I've known for years and we used to play together when we were young asked me in church if we could go out together because she'd like to reconnect. We see each other at church, but this would be nice. It blessed my heart. I had two showers, one friday night for Shelly and the other sat afternoon for Amanda, both friends from church. Amanda and her husband and I have all known each other for years and years! Now we are all grown and have our own babies! I also got a surprise at her shower, another friend from childhood, Aimee was there for her cousin's shower! Her sister and me and my sister were inseparable when we were young. It was nice that they were both church showers since I got to know some nice girls I know but not well from church, and are now my friends online! I am so blessed by beautiful friendships, friends are the gifts God gives you and my cup runneth over!

I guess that's all. More to come later! Be Blessed!

2008-11-12T20:19:00.000-08:00

While we're on the subject of movies, I want to also seriously ask you to consider the above 2 movies, written from the stories by David Gregory, also great books. They answer a lot of questions in a relaxed wonderful way that really make you think. A great find, they are! :) Check it out, Netflix carries them both!

2008-11-12T20:16:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to reccommend the movie Expelled. Not sure if you' all have heard of it, but it is not too popular, since it is a Christian movie/documentary. I would really urge you to take the time to watch this, it's worth the hour and a half.

Remember This Too Is God's Plan And He Will Protect Those Who Are Faithful

2008-11-05T17:07:00.000-08:00

Hear Us From Heaven

Lord hear our cry
Come heal our land
Breathe life into these dry and thirsty souls
Lord hear our prayer
Forgive our sin
And as we call on Your name
Would You make this a place for Your glory to dwell

Open the blind eyes
Unlock the deaf ears
Come to Your people
As we draw near
Hear us from Heaven
Touch our generation
We are Your people
Crying out in desperation

Hear us from Heaven
Hear us from Heaven
Hear us from Heaven

words and music by Jared Anderson
© 2004 Vertical Worship Songs/ASCAP

UPDATE ON EVERYTHING HERE

2008-11-05T16:44:00.000-08:00

WELL I AM GETTING THERE! I HAVE LOTS OF LOVE AND SUPPORT AND THAT HELPS TOO! I REST IN THE AFTERNOON WHEN THE KIDS GO DOWN AND READ AND WHEN COLIN COMES HOME IN THE LATE AFTERNOON I LET HIM TAKE LEAD, BUT STILL GET YELLED AT BECAUSE I DON'T SIT AND TRY TOI DO TOO MUCH! CAN'T KEEP ME DOWN! ;) ANYWAY LIZ CAME OVER MONDAY WITH A BEEF STEW AND A PLATE OF BROWNIES FOR ME! SHE BROUGHT ME SOME SCRAPPING PAPER TOO! SHE'S SUCH A LOVE! THANKS SO MUCH FOR SURPRISING ME! GLAD I GOT TO SEE YOU BEFORE YOU WENT TO BECKY'S! MONDAY NIGHT SHELLY CAME OVER WITH THE KIDS AND THEY GOT TO SEE LOLA, THEY WILL HAVE TO COME BACK AND PLAY WITH HER AGAIN! SHELLY IS SUCH A STRONG WOMAN! SHE REALLY WENT OUT OF HER WAY TO HELP US OUT, AND THE MEAL, OF COURSE WAS AWESOME! CHICKEN, SWEET POTATOES AND A CRANBERRY AND WALNUT SALAD. YESTERDAY MY SISTER CAME OVER IN THE LATE AFTERNOON AND BROUGHT ME A MEATLOAF AND A PASTA SIDEDISH AND SOME PEAS. WE HAD IT TONIGHT, YUM! BETWEEN ALL THE MEALS WE'VE BEEN EATIN GOOD! I AM HAPPY TO HAVE A STOCK IN THE FREEZER TOO TO CUT DOWN ON FOOD SHOPPING AND SAVE THAT MONEY FOR OTHER THINGS. TODAY WE BROWSED AROUND JOANN'S AND MY MOM SPOILED ME OF COURSE! SHE ALWAYS WANTS TO GO ABOVE AND BEYOND ABOVE AND BEYOND! WE TOOK MIA TO THE DOCTOR FOR HER COUGH SEEMS TO BE PERSISTANT AND SHE SAID HER EAR WAS BOTHERING HER. SHE'S ON MEDS FOR HER COUGH AND EAR INFECTION. I AM GLAD FOR ALL THIS DOWN TIME AND EXTRA SNUGGLE TIME TO ALL REST TOGETHER. COLIN IS GOING IN EARLIER AND GETTING OUT EARLIER THIS WEEK. IT'S NICE TO HAVE HIM AROUND DESPITE HIM MISSING OUT ON THE MONEY SIDEWORK CAN BRING IN, I'M GRATEFUL HE HAS SUCH A GOOD ATTITUDE AND DOESN'T MIND CARING FOR ME AND THE KIDS AND OUR HOME. :) HE'S GLAD FOR ANY TIME WITH US, AND HE HAS BEEN READING BIBLE STORIES AND TALKING TO THEM ABOUT JESUS BEFORE BED AT NIGHT. I'M GLAD FOR THAT TOO, BECAUSE THERE ARE MANY TIMES I HAVE TO PUT THEM TO BED WITHOUT DADDY BECAUSE HE GOES FROM WORK TO WORK AND SOMETIMES WORK. :( THANKFULLY SOMETIMES LIFE IN A STRANGE WAY FORCES YOU TO SLOW DOWN A BIT. SO I AM GETTING STRONGER AND ABLE TO DO MORE EVERY DAY, AND I'M FOREVR GRATEFUL TO MY MOM AND ENJOYING THE TIME WE SPEND TOGETHER, AS ALWAYS. WE ARE THE SAME PERSON AND COMPLIMENT EACH OTHER SO WELL, HER AND I, WE ARE LIKE SISTERS AND BEST FRIENDS. :) WELL, THE CHILDREN ARE IN BED, AND I'M GOING UP TO GET MY CUDDLE TIME NOW WITH DADDY ;)

My Emergency Surgey...Even This Was His Plan Too!

2008-11-02T12:43:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!!!! I am doing great, better than I should be! I'm gettin around but cheating and doing stuff I shouldn't when no one is looking! Seriously, I am only supposed to be resting and showering, but I do light stuff around here. I'm not stupid I just feel better being active. They pumped me with so much gas, I'm just better off walking and moving around. I have had gall bladder pain and indigestion for about 2 months and had an ultrasound and found I had gall stones and sludge and they were going to monitor it. Well I went back to the dr bc it wasn't going away, it was like a lead sinker that was always there. Finally last sun i was breathless and Colin packed up the kids and took me to the er. My parents came and took our jeep and went to our house to grab stuff and ended up keeping them for 4 nights. it was painful and quite an ordeal. I was dehydrated when i got there I had antibiotics bc my liver was swollen and my enzymes were up. I had an ultrasound and waited til surgery day when they took me 5 hours late. I spent a lot of time in prayer and reading the Bible and witnessing to my nurses, and enjoying the family and friends who support and encourage me. I was more worried about Colin losing almost a week's pay bc he stayed with me. He took the kids out for the morning yesterday to Dunkin and the Home Depot workshop and helped them both make a craft project. They had a blast! Then he did the food shopping. I can only shower and rest until my apt on the 14th. aghhh! I will be going to church and voting though. My sister came and sat with me all day at the hospiatl and brought Colin coffee and egg sandwiches from D+D and came back that night with Gary after he got out of work. Steve and Sheri came later after working all day and stayed til after visiting hours! My Papa came to visit and Liz and Tom came and brought me some books, crossword puzzles, tootsie pops, gum, a card and balloon! I got soooo many phone calls from family and friends while there. My pastor came to see me too! He's so amazing! He made my day! I pushed after my surgery to come home so after an hour I was up and running, so they let me go 2 hours after., Even with the delays and waiting around for a few days there, it was overall a good experience. The nurses were all awesome and I was able to witness to them and joke with all of them and practice patience too. Everyone who took care of me was great. My anatheseologist and even the older men who wheeled me to my tests, then later to surgery, everyone's got a story and it's fun to hear. We always get nurses who like to come in and chat with us! My doctor was the same one who did my breast surgery, she's fantastic. Colin and my mom would flip flop she would sit with me while he saw the kids and then he would stay with me overnight and most of the time. My mom came over at 7:30 the next day and has been an angel. Sheri brought over lunch (homeade chicken salad my big bro Steve made!) and dinner ( chicken bruchetta! yum!) and groceries and games to keep the kids happy and helped my mom who is going to be here all day every day for the next couple of weeks. She stayed all day and shared our meal and spent time with us. She also offered to foodshop and take on our errands. Women from the church are offering meals and childcare! I have a few women from the church and friends bringing cards or a meal. Ness surprised me and brought me a Caramel mochiatto and a beautiful singing friendship card and offers to help and left some raviolli's for us. Liz came over and sat for a few hours with us. Cheryl came over at night for a bit with Mema. So nice. It's cool to see how the circle of love continues, now these people i have cooked or baked for or helped out giving back and some ladies i didn't even know. All my friends have called or sent a card and family members in other states have their churches praying! I am in awe of God's love shining through so many people that just do beacuse God lays a need on their heart and they are about others and being a servant. God blesses and uses those people who are blessed with more so they can give back to others who may have less. And those people who don't have much, but freely and willingly give, God bless their hearts! Last night Corey, a man from our church who I'd never met brought over a wonderful huge lasagna (delish!) and a huge salad and loaf of bread, after working all day and on the way out. His wife Natalie cooked it all and I got to meet her today, she's in my daughter's second class when all the children's classes combine but didn't realize it!!! Another woman Amy came up to me and told me she's bringing over a big chicken pot pie tomorrow afternoon! This woman has 4 of her own little girls and family to take care of,! I have said hi to her at church, but didn't really know her. How sweet and giving! Cindy Johnson gave us a huge dish of this awesome pasta and brocolli dish and brownies today. She's always doing something for someone else! I had a few women ask for my address and Shelly, WHO IS DUE ANY DAY!cooking a meal and dropping off tomorrow early evening! She's an awesome cook, too! She also called to check in last week. So Ali came over tonight after the kids went to to bed and brought us baked manacotti and spent time with me :) Then she says if we need more food just ask, anytime. Then she says if we want to drop the kids off anytime she will take them, her and her husband, and if we need laundry or any housework done to let her help. This woman has 3 kids and is preg! And does preschool homeschool. Unreal! She acted like it was no big deal! This coming from the person who is thoughtful and considerate enough to put her dog away when we come over, or her husband does beacuse my daughter is afraid of him. I say he lives here it's ok, and she says it's only for a little while, he'll live, it's more important for her to enjoy herself and feel comfortable here! She's a sweetheart, they are both great. We went to church today and I was just overwhelmed by awesome love and kindness and genuine hugs and prayers. Everyone was surprised to see me and so concerned for me! It's just so mind boggling! I am amazed by such gracious humble people! I just have to say my mom is just beyond words! Her and my dad have always been there to help us and support us, they are so unselfish and my mom works her butt off and does it because she truly wants to. She's the best mom and Noni. She spoils me and brings over little treats. Mia I have to say has been PHENOMINAL through this whole experience! She was so understanding from the very beginning and so concerned for me, stepping up and helping me out. She has been so independant and helping take care of her brother and not complaigning and babying me! She pets my face and kisses my belly with soft healing butterfly kisses. She lays in bed with me and prays for me. She got out her phone the other day and said My mommy needs some prayer for her belly and she was in the hospital, she can't lift my brother so we're going to need some help. She hung up and said, okay, now who else do I need to call? She's a doll. She tells me every day Mom you are such a good Mommy and I love you Mommy...EVERY DAY!! Colin has been doing the laundry, cooking, dishes, vaccuming, cleaning, bathing the children, phone calls, errands and shopping, doing his lunch, taking care of the bunny and fish, pampering me, EVERYTHING so when my mom comes she won't have to do anything but care for the children, although she finds things to do! :) He has had the best attitude too, so willing and helpful, calling me Sweetheart and Darling tenderly. He told me if he had to care for me and the children forever he would gladly do it because we are his family and he is blessed by us and he would be honored to do so. I didn't take any pain meds in the hosp but am now. i am in a real lot of pain. It will pass and God will sustain us all. I am a little worried beacuse he won't be able to do any sidework at all for about 3 weeks. Plus he doesn't get paid for holidays. That's why I'm glad we are getting so much food, I have started putting some in the freezer because we will be stocked and it will be a blessing in the month ahead, especially this week when he gets a 2 day paycheck. God will provide, and he is not worried, he just says God is our Redemmer and we will be taken care of by His hands. So I am praying and putting that faith into practice. We have been throught trying times before and He always lifts us up and has something better coming. Sometimes through angels unaware. So thanks to all of you who have ministered to us with your servant's hearts and willing attitude to do whatever it takes to help. You fed more than our bodies. We are so grateful and the chain of love will not end here, we will continue on. We love you all!

Catching Up

2008-10-14T20:24:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! I have been busy enjoying the last of summer! Spending time with family and friends is so rewarding even if it keeps ya busy! We went camping with my parents this past weekend and we had an awesome time! The kids did so well, I am so pleased! I'm glad since we want to make this a tradition with my parents and their other grandparents want to go next spring and our friends Steve and Sheri want to go in the summers. They had a blast setting up and they even rested inside while we "set up camp". We went for a ride to get some pumpkins and Mia got to ride on a horse while Noni walked by her side! We went to a farm and got to pet a few baby animals. We took lots of beautiful pictures. They loved the campfire and making smores, and Colin made us JiffyPop! They went right in the tent and right to sleep too and slept the whole night! It was so nice to sit by the mesmerizing fire and just relax and talk and watch the moon come up. We left the next morning after a great breakfast (thanks Dad! We loved watching him cook on his campstove!) Eli followed Papa around everywhere and clung to him and Mia wanted him to play and color and wanted to help him...Papa loved being able to spend time with his grandbabies since Noni gets to see then so much; it was good he had that time too! We made some memories, took some pictures, had some laughs all in all a great experience! Mia keeps pretending she's going on a camping trip and says she wants to go back again! It was definately worth the piles of laundry and catch up on cleaning at home! Of course, not without a shower and naps all around first! :)

Seasonal Christian Bulletin Board

2008-10-07T21:29:00.000-07:00

I made this board for my kitchen tonight. I will use the seasons and incorporate that with God and maybe some of my kid's artwork or pictures. They will love the board because it's so colorful and will love to help change it for seasons, everyday or holidays because we'll do it together.

I Want Candy!

2008-10-03T10:37:00.000-07:00

We made some homeade candy today, the kind you melt the wafers and put in the molds and can make candy or pops. We always did that when we were little. So we went to the craft store the other day and got all the stuff to start and we can make sweet treats every season! We started out making some letters and made a birthday plate for the party tomorrow! They would even be cute on cupcakes! They came out so cute! Mom and Papa came by for a visit when we were outside and we went for a nice walk, it was cool out and we gathered yet more leaves! My neighbors must love that we are cleaning the streets of all the leaves everywhere! They love walking around the neighborhood, they hold hands tightly and it's so sweet!

Yesterday we made a double batch of chocolate chocolate chip brownies, yum! Then Mia helped me make a honey and brown sugar ham and honey/brown sugar carrots and cornbread. We didn't do any workbooks this week but have been doing baking and art projects every day and doing lots of reading. I love watching them play and hearing her use her imagination, I love when kids use what they have and are content enough to just imagine and not limit their minds. We stayed home today since we have another busy weekend ahead. It was a nice morning, our windows are open and it feels so good to catch a cool breeze. We had oatmeal for breakfast and I'm going to give them soup for dinner tonight. I will wait for Colin to come home so we can eat together a quiet dinner and catch up. He has been at the church every night this week, and a few other places after work too, he is working so hard and does it all with a smile on his face even if it's a tired one. We sit on the couch and just relax together, and talk about our days. Even if it's only for 45 min, it's still good to grab time when you can to stay connected. We ( the kids and I )have a good schedule though and when he's got long weeks we adjust and keep busy. He always calls at 7 to say goodnight to them. :) So I have some things to take care of around here, thanks for checkin in! xo Have a safe, happy weekend! xo

What a busy month sept was!

2008-10-02T16:28:00.000-07:00

Wow! Is it October already? I can't even believe it! September was wonderful and filled with playdates with a few good friends and Mia started "schoolwork". We have been cleaning and baking a lot lately, maybe it's a fall spurt! It's coming fast and it sure is beautiful! God has indeed blessed us with such an amazing church where we are so amzed at the work He is doing in and amoung us, our cup runneth over! We have become close, like inseperable to a family we have known all along for 3 years while our daughters Tiffany and Mia were in the same classes and their second daughter Ashley is in Eli's class. Sheri and I have nursery duty together, and Steve and Colin are so much alike, it's unreal! It's great to find people who feel the same way as you do. We sit together in sunday school and service and have instantly become forever friends, more than that we are family. We are just enjoying this so much! God has answered a prayer with amazing, giving humble, loving down to earth, generous, beautiful people who are so in love with each other and God it's inspiring! We even got to have a double date all night with them without kids! :) We love their family so much! We also have been getting to know another couple who sits in front of us in SS, Shelly and Jared. They are sweet and kind and fun. Her and I have been getting the kids together and they play so well together. She has a daughter Kayla and a son Nathaniel. She is pregnant with her 3rd and is homeschooling. I know, awesome! They had us over for dinner and it was sooo delicious! Jared even made us these starbuksish drinks afterwards! mmmmm. They are such a nice family! :) Such cute kids too. I know her little baby girl, who is due soon will be a doll! Can't wait to meet her! We are keeping in touch with old friends who I am enjoying watching their kids grow, friends I knew before I was even married, when I was a teen, like Ali and Julie. They have their own families now and they are all so special to me. They are both going to homeschool their kids! I have such a great support system, we are all in this together and have basically the same ideas on morals and dicipline and having a schedule and boundries, That is so impotant and so refreshing to see people who put their all in their family and kids and are doing it according to God's plan. May he continue to bless them all! Ness and I of course are trying to stick to our weekly meeting. The kids have so much fun together. Riley is so cute and it's cool to look back and see how much she's grown, she's so smart! Ness and I always have so much fun together! We have fun with the kids, but we like our girl time too! :) Abbey and I continue our correspondence by sending packages back and forth between the states. I wish I could hug her, I love her so much! Bonnie and Mike let me have Bradly for a whole day! It was so much fun having 3! The kids loved having him and helping take care of him. I just love that little guy! I reconnected with my friend Kerry I had met when I was 16 and went away to Maine with, she was my bunkmate and we ended up clicking and she and I kept in touch for years, she lived with me a summer while her boyfriend was at bootcamp, and later when he came back and they got married, I was in her wedding. I called her the other night and we are so excited to be talking and can't wait to see each other again. Her and Nate had a baby girl, Becca, I can't wait to see her, she's adorable!

Besides spending time with friends I am trying to stay home at least once or twice a week so we can just be. I don't like to have them going nonstop, then you always feel on the go and I don't want to hurry life and miss little moments. Life is not a party that never ends and kids thrive on scedules, plus I LOVE to be home with them and we have a great routine during the days we have art, reading, playtime, outdoor time, a baking or cooking project, movie time, etc. I finished christmas shopping a few weeks ago and am thrilled it's behind me. I am a plan ahead and organized kind of girl! I have some project ideas in my head and am working on some thing around here. I am reading every book I can get my hands on about homeschooling, freeschooling or unschooling. I am fasinated by the knowledge and other people's experiences. Being home and nuturing my children and ME and my husband teaching them is our joy! So many memories we made this summer! We went to the zoo, the museum, the playground. Mia had her double eye surgery and is doing perfect! I got to see my cousin Ruth and her husband Eddie and meet their darling daughter Eva. I got to see my childhood friend Krissy and her sis Aimee! Good times. We had some birthday parties, some family parties, and a whole lot of "just the 4 of us" time. My nieces just turned 8 and it's hard for me to see that, they grew too fast and yesterday I was laying in thier cribs with them and enjoying the sweet innocence of a time gone by long ago. They are smart and beautiful, and did I say growing too fast? Speaking of growing too fast, our Elijah turned 1 this summer and we had a Celtics/Red sox party for our little man in our backyard with a barbecue. 16 days later our niece Jordan also turned 1. She's always smiling! Her sister and our other niece Cadence went to school this fall and turned 5 last month. The kids are growing and we are blessed to be watching and a part of a big happy extended family under a perfect sky painted with rainbows and clouds by our loving Heavenly Father.

Artsy fun!

2008-09-30T09:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went out for the day with my mom. We went shopping for Tiffany and Ashley's birthday presents...we got them lots of art stuff! I took mom to this awesome Christian coffeehouse and we had delicious coffee drinks. Mia painted her nails by herself for the first time, and did so well! She even did mine! lol! She was very proud! :) Later that night we had fun creating some fall pictures. We played outside in the rain and enjoyed warm cocoa while we talked about fall. Here's some of their work....

Last Day of Sept

2008-09-30T09:15:00.000-07:00

Today was fun! The kids were doing autumn art projects and I decided we should go collect leaves instead of just cutting some out in construction paper. They were having a blast as it was ( they wanted to make hundreds of leaves!) but I got the idea in my head and knew they would love it! There's a place I like to take them to watch the horses outside and they come right up to the fence and stare at you curiously, sometimes neigh, and sometimes you can touch their soft coats and they blow warm breath into your hands. Since there's lots of trees there, I knew there would be a beautiful autumn carpet of multicolored leaves to collect. They decorated brown bags and brought them along. Of course I brought my camera along too :) Tonight when Mia was praying before bed, she thanked God it was fall and that we got to go visit the horses and itemized everything that made her day special :) I love to hear her talking to our Heavenly Father...it's amazing and precious!

A Bountiful Harvest of Apples!

2008-09-26T20:28:00.000-07:00

Today was quite productive! I took the morning to do some baking and use up our apples we got last weekend. It was a dreary rainy wet day outside, but inside, it was warm and we wore our pajammas all day and laughed and danced and worked together while the steady sound of rain kept up a steady cadence on our windows, and inside the aroma of warm apples and spices waifed through the air. We put some classical music on, rolled our sleeves up, and started to bake! Mia helped me with the first pie, and after that, she helped me by being a big girl, and kind big sister and colored with Eli, and read to him. They played in his room, they played in her room, they ate snack together at the kitchen table and chatted with me awhile. They didn't fight once, no one got hurt...it was...Amazing!!!! I got three pies done and an apple crisp. One is red apples, one is green apples, one is french apple, and an apple crisp. They "helped" clean up (lol) I am so proud of them, and thankful for an unexpected gift of a quiet and peaceful day!

So Today

2008-09-22T19:58:00.000-07:00

We picked wildflowers in the fields at the orchard

Today was another wonderful day home with the children. I love to be home with them and am so content and fullfilled I have been so blessed! I woke up to a beautiful note from Hubby/Daddy for all of us to read on the kitchen table. Mia loves her new chore chart, and if I thought she loved helping me before, she loves to read off her list ( feed Paisley, feed Lola, put silverware away from dishwasher, make bed...etc). She loves to check off that box and help me with everything. She did so well with her workbooks today, she said grace this morning at breakfast and thanked God for the wonderful day and her family and school work! Too smart she is! We baked a peach and blueberry pie this afternoon. We went saturday afternooon to the orchard to pick peaches, plums and apples. I am excited to do more baking and put it in the freezer, we bake alot for the holidays, but we do give alot away. I love the weekends, they are always filled with precious memories of priceless family time and there's no where else we'd rather be! Of course, we took lots of pictures to capture the moments! :) Colin did Mia's books with her sunday afternoon, and was amazed! Today she said B-O-O-K, book! I said wow! :) We had a lovely visit with friends of ours saturday night who are quickly becoming like family! Sunday is church day and we love it! So begins another week, but instead of dreading and hating those mondays, or any other day, I thank God every day; for another day in paradise!

Another Day in The Life....

2008-09-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

Hey and howdy! Wow! I'm doing good this week with bloggin' huh? Well, Mia has been doing workbooks on and off for about a year, and beofre that, she knew all her flashcards before she was 2. Basicly we have been reviewing and playing school. She really has been growing so much and asking more and more how to read and write and can she do more schoolwork? Last week I started doing workbooks for an hour, then a project, then book reading, then coloring. She really loves it and is doing well so far. I like that we can be flexible and skip a day, or only do stickers and painting another day, and do 3 workbooks or just practice writing her name, or sight cards. She's only 3 1/2 so we will go slow with it, but I will at least be doing something with her for about 90-120 min 2 or 3 times a week, more if she is wanting to. My mom and I just shopped for some prescool and kindergarten very basic books and workbooks on CBD. Great site, and they can send you a catalog of just homeschool products. My mom and dad are giving her those for Christmas, she will be so excited! Thanks for the help, we sure do appreciate it! She does her work at the table, and has a little nook with some of her things upstairs ( beacuse of space, I have storage bins downstairs with the rest of her art and supplies). I can also look thru my old workbooks for ideas since my mom saved my schoolwork and such from when I was homeschooled. Have I thanked you today for that yet mom? SOoooo glad I was home taught! My mom is an amazing inspiration! Today we made smoothies and homemade waffles, some regular, some blueberry. My mom let me use her iron for a couple of days. My plan is to make a lot to freeze for us and maybe anyone else who would like to have some to stock up on. Shelly, I would make you guys some, but for the allergies...Sheri, if you'd like a bag, just let me know what kind. Ness, Riley would loove these...Jewel, I could bring some over soon, Ali doesn't have a computer, so maybe I'll surprise her! Everyone else lives in another state! Liz, Colin can bring some in work and give them to Tom...Anyone else I forgot, I can take special orders! Then we had outdoor time and got to watch men work outside on the road, they were fascinated by the big machines! The man even waved at them! (They were thrilled!). We did chalk and bubbles, and had snack time, while she fed Eli, I gave him a quick haircut. After that it was bathtime and they are napping...ahhh the sound of silence! So here's a couple of random shots from this morning I didn't take any outside, just a few of what we made and a lot of bathtime! There ae also a couple shots of the school cart in our kitchen. We got the map in a states puzzle we bought them. The cool chart is from mom! Also I am showing Mia's project she did yesterday because it's so cute! We did her handprints and she told me all the things she uses her hands for and I wrote them down for her!

Another Fun Baking Project

2008-09-16T20:17:00.001-07:00

My daughter and I made these cookies the other day for my grandma, her great grandma for her birthday. They are so simple. Just use sugar or butter cookies and add a small bit of frosting, any color, and gum drops, any color, to create your own cookie blossoms!

Just Some Recent Scrap and Card Making

2008-09-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

I tried twice to download this pic but it keeps going sideways! I used a Stampin Up! set my friend Abbey in Tenn sent me...Thanks Abs! The first layout is for my daughter and was so much fun to make! Now I just need to decide what picture to put in the middle, they are all beautiful! By the way, it can be read either way; Blossoming Beauty or Beauty Blossoming.

Homeschooling A Whole Way of Life by Michael Pearl

2008-09-15T14:03:00.000-07:00

The number of homeschoolers is rapidly increasing. Home-schooling is not just an alternative educational procedure; it is one of many expressions of a whole way of life.
It is the result of loving parents putting on the brakes and saying, “No” to this stampeding system of child-trampling New Agers. Our families will not be devoured and digested, becoming part of the feces of this carnivorous monster called public education, generated by the twisted minds of the morally ill.
As homeschooling parents, you have taken charge of your life to give God his rightful place in training your children. To teach biology in an environment that denies the Author of life is like eating an egg and denying the chicken. Such a process is stupefying—degrading to the intellect. To teach history apart from God is to praise the sculpture and deny the sculptor. To learn science and mathematics apart from the omnipotent God is to throw out the computer and do your computations with a roulette wheel. To teach children to read and then outlaw the reading of the only book written by the God called the Word is like giving a blind man sight and then outlawing seeing.
The public school expelled God from the class room, but when the immorality became a threat to personal satisfaction, as well as personal safety, they started talking about values. They will not get their values back any more than a man will get peaches from a tree he cut up for firewood.
We are not rebels; quite the opposite; we are just the minority who refuse to join a rebellion against God and the truth. We are taking our children to the tree of life growing beside the fountain of knowledge to be refreshed by the Author of life. We will not stoop for anything less. We will not compromise. We will not allow state testing to dictate our curriculum. They have made their position on God and morality clear. We are making our position clear. We will not attend their party, dance to their tune, or employ their fiddler.

Inspiring Thoughts for parents

2008-08-26T09:01:00.000-07:00

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING

A message every adult should read because children
are watching you and doing as you do, not as you say.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you hang my
first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately
wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a
stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind
to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make my
favorite cake for me, and I learned that the little
things can be the special things in life.

When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a
prayer, and I knew that there is a God I could always
talk to, and I learned to trust in Him.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make a
meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I
learned that we all have to help take care of each
other.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of
your time and money to help people who had nothing,
and I learned that those who have something should
give to those who don't.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you take care
of our house and everyone in it, and I learned we have
to take care of what we are given.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw how you
handled your responsibilities, even when you didn' t
feel good, and I learned that I would have to be
responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw tears come
from your eyes, and I learned that sometimes things
hurt, but it's all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw that you
cared, and I wanted to be everything that I could be.

When you thought I wasn't looking I learned most of
life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and
productive person when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I looked at you and
wanted to say,'Thanks for all the things I saw when
you thought I wasn't looking.'

I AM SENDING THIS TO ALL OF THE PEOPLE I KNOW WHO DO SO MUCH FOR OTHERS, BUT THINK THAT NO ONE EVER SEES. LITTLE EYES SEE A LOT. Each of us (parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, teacher, friend) influences the life of a child. How will you touch the life of someone today? Just by sending this to someone else, you will probably make them at least think about their influence on others. Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.