Interactive Faith Builder

What keeps you from believing that God can restore the parts of your life that feel dead or broken? What is the “something more” that God may be calling you to?


Why is it that every question lately brings me back to myself? I can answer questions that don't have anything to do with me better.

In order to answer the first question, I had to look into my life and decided what exactly feels dead or broken. There are some parts inside of me that I would qualify as dead. I talked a couple of days ago about finding myself. As I sit back and think and look into things I don't think that it isn't that I don't BELIEVE that God can restore me. It is more like WANTING him to. I commented on my weight loss blog that part of my block in weight loss was that if I lost the weight I wouldn't know how to act, would everybody expect something different from me. So I guess the issue for me is -- If I change through this process, how will I act? Will that affect the way the people think of me? Will it be harder?

God is calling me past the easy. He wants me to know myself. He wants me to BE myself.

It is just easier that way...

One of these changes that I keep talking about is in the way I view myself. All of my life I have been living to please someone else. That is what has been the easiest. I was going to say it was what made me happy, or what was comfortable but those descriptions didn't always fit. It was not necessarily what made me happy all the time. Sometimes it wasn't comfortable. But as long as I could figure out what others wanted I was ready to comply. It was just easier that way.

I say easier because I didn't have to think to hard about what I wanted or too much on how I felt. The result is I didn't know myself very well. Introductions were always hard for me. You know when you have to go around and tell about yourself. When those times came around I would pick a few very generic likes to list. It was just easier that way.

When it came to doing things it was easier to let my mom or dad or whoever, give me the ideas and then do the work. The truth is they probably thought I had no ideas of my own. The truth was I was timid to let anyone know I had a different idea, that person might not accept it and as a result not accept me. I know that is not how it works but you never know, it might be. Go with the other person's ideas. It was just easier that way.

When it came to school, subjects with exact answers were the easiest for me. I loved algebra, geometry, science, chemistry, physics. There were answers there I just had to find them. I didn't have to come up with them on my own. I loved history as well, especially when it was date and event recall. English and writing were harder, because well I had to come up with my own thoughts and answers. I perfected the art of listening carefully in class and regurgitating answers. I made A's that way. That pleased my family and it was just easier that way.

I was always proud of the fact that I made good grades In the classes that I took, that meant I could think for myself. At least that is what the world outside looking in thought. It was fine by me. It was just easier that way.

I find myself still living by that code, trying to discern what other people want and then giving it to them. Coming up with my own ideas and deciding what I really feel and like still often takes a back seat. However, I am slowly learning who I am and it is the hardest thing I have ever done.

More later.

Don't forget....

.....to go see this post to add money to the total going to ST. Jude's Children's Research Hospital -- the comments have almost doubled in 12 hours -- but she still needs 200 or so to reach her goal.

I was # 294 (yes again -- you can post once a day for credit)

Go Comment!!!

Postie Patrol Strikes Again

This is hilarious! PayPerPost has the Postie Patrol where various Posties -- that'd be people like me who post ads for companies via PayPerPost -- compete to win various prizes. On this one Robin was on a trek to win Digital Photo Printing gear from HP.

The video was so fun to watch. It had everything from crazy stunts to snow angels in the middle of Chicago -- in windchill of -9* btw -- to my favorite, of course, Salvation Army Bell Ringers. In fact that was the only trademark, besides HP or PayPerPost of course, that I saw in the video.



Would I do something like this? Humm...... I don't know, I am not very outgoing. Of course the motivation of HP gear and a cash prize -- would that be enough to get over my fear? I don't know. Go watch the video and see if you could picture me doing things like that. Let me know.


HP sponsored this post!

Things that maks you go humm..........

Which Classic Female Literary Character Are you?

You're Anna Karenina of Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy! Take this quiz! Quizilla | Join | Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code

A Good deed for the day

Go over to Pass the Torch -- this blogger has a corporate sponsor who will donate $1 for every comment, up to 500, on this post to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. A wonderful way to help. I was # 154 -- help her get to 500.

It is my Anniversary.....

My hubby woke me up with a whispered "Happy Anniversary" and he as said it several times today.

And several of my W@H sisters sent wishes ~ It helps that another one shares an anniversary with me lol! ~ Thank you So very much girls~~ I love you each and every one!


However, that is it. No one else has said a word today - both of my parents, my sister, and my best friend all called today and did not mention one thing about my anniversary. I am trying very hard not to be upset but it isn't working very well. Only one person that was there 10 years ago remembered - as well he should - but no one else.........

None of them read this blog either so I won't be guilting them into a call....lol

Job Hunting in the 21st Century

This time last year my husband was looking for work. He had just begun a process that lasted for more than 10 months. We learned a lot about ourselves and about the job market in this area.

We worked on his paper resume, posted online resumes, filled out paper applications, and online ones as we searched high and low for something full filling and worthwhile for him.

There is something new on the job searching horizon -- Audio Resumes. You can Learn More About Audio Resume here.

You simply call and answer questions related to yourself and then are given a unique link to place on your resume. Potential employers can go to the link and listen to your responses. Another great way to make a good impression before ever having seen anyone in person. Good first impressions lead to more chances for second and third impressions, and more chances to be hired.

All of this for only $9.95 a good investment for your future.



This is a sponsored post.

For the organizationally Challanged.....

This was originally a post to respond to a question on the W@H message board. The original question ran something like this: What routines do you have that help you keep up with the day to day and get other things done as well?

As you can see by my answer I didn't have any wonderful advice for her with basic day to day stuff but I did give her the starting point from which I am working.

Here is my answer in its original form - minus the friendly chatter that accompanies message board banters. I am posting it here for posterity and as a motivational tool to keep me on track.

Girl I have no wonderful advice for you -- I would say the same about me -- I am very organizationally challenged -- One thing I have learned in the last year or so however, is to take tasks slowly one step at a time.

I am willing to bet that you are a perfectionist -- don't laugh -- you want to mount tall mountains perfectly the first time, realize that you can't do it and either don't start, or if you have started, stop in frustration, adding to the clutter. I am exactly the same way!

People like that are never going to get anywhere with that mode of thinking. I have begun to realize that and started breaking jobs down into smaller, MUCH smaller tasks.

for example this week's broad main goal was the clean the front part of the house, meaning my kitchen, living room and hall way. In my imagination that was a completely clean, sterile environment that was not only clean on the out side but inside the cabinets, pantry, shelves, and closets etc. and all was organized.

However, I realized quickly Tuesday that with 3 children at the house that wasn't going to happen.....I broke it down into manageable jobs. Tuesday's goal was to surface clean the kitchen. That meant the dishes, the counters, the table, the stove. That DID NOT mean the floor, cabinets, pantry and fridge and freezer were going to be cleaned up and out and organized. I got that done and have maintained the surface clean with the help of assigning certain chores to my 8 and 5 year olds. The whole job took about 2 hours and the rest of the day was filled with daily activities etc.

Wednesday's job was to surface clean the Living room. Which meant picking up clutter, trash, toys, books and crafts -- putting up or throwing out. I did vacuum the middle of the floors in here -- meaning up to the furniture but not moving it. That is done and the goal is to maintain that.

Tomorrow's and Friday's goals are to clean up and out the entertainment center and the hallway and accompanying bathroom respectively with catching up on laundry in the meantime. The entertainment center is my one major clean up/out project this week the rest is mostly just surface cleaning and of course maintaining.

I am learning to be satisfied with small successes and keep building on them.

I am going to start a household notebook this year too -- but do it in small, small steps. The first things I am going to add are routines and chore lists for these areas that I have cleaned this week. It will help me once we start back to school next Tuesday.

How do I love Pay Per Post?

Let me count the ways....

PayPerPost is the blog marketing website for which I have been writing. It is an easy way to earn a little extra money doing what you like to do anyway -- blog.

I have to admit I was a little skeptical when I first heard about it, so I sat back and watched as several other bloggers I know personally try it. I read their success stories and even found a few new services and products through them. So I decided to try it myself.

I have written 12 posts (this is the lucky13th :-) ) and had 8 approved so far -- with the holidays approval has slowed down somewhat but it should pick up after the new year -- I will be paid over $100 once all my posts have been written thus far, including this one, are approved and up.

What is more, I am working on my writing skills and writing more. This causes me to have to write in a new style that I haven't written much of before. It also causes me to keep up my blog with daily posts of other things as well. Those are the things that I really want to be writing so now I have motivation to get them written...

This is sponsored by PayPerPost.

Challenges ~ 2007

I have already talked about how I am going to Celebrate a Year of Abundance with Sallie.

And now Mrs. Cat has issued a challenge. List 3 things you would like to do learn this year that you don't already know how to do. She has a plan for accomplishing those things too. And, as one to jump on a bandwagon, I am going to list my 3 things. (umm can I list celebrating abundance and goal making as my first two? lol))

Three things I want to learn this year:

1. Planning and maintaining a financial plan (notice I didn't use the dreaded b word?)
2. Planning and maintaining a household planner
3. Quilting -- from start to finish.

There are mine -- what are yours?

Got Baby?

With 3 pregnancies under my belt I know about stretch marks. I am sure that my other pregnant friends can tell similar stories. I have several pregnant friends and I have found something that I am going to suggest for to them.

Mother's Intuition has a unique line of Natural products for new mothers. Tummy Honey is a product for those hated stretch marks. It has an extract that is proven to fade and prevent stretch marks. This product has won awards and is the talk of Mom Websites on the 'net

This post sponsored by Mother's Intuition.

Something Fun!

1. If I were inviting someone over for a special dinner, I would
most likely serve.... Spaghetti, Salad, Garlic Bread

2. If I were in a rush, and needed to make something quick and easy,
I would serve.... Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwhiches

3. Something I ate in a restaurant that was absolutely wonderful
was.... Chicken Parmigiana at Olive Garden

4. Something I have had at a gathering and asked for the recipe
afterwards.. .. BLT Dip

5. My favorite meal served when I was a guest at a gathering... . Oriental Thanksgiving Dinner at my MIL's

6. My kids always beg me to make..... Apple Chicken

7. The best meal for a cold, wintery night.... Chili or Beans and cornbread

8. Something that goes great from freezer to table... Ice Cream -- lol

9. My favorite crock pot meal is.... I need your help here........

10. Something I have only heard being prepared in my family is.... Ky Derby Pie or Sweet Potatoes Curl Style

Have fun :) I tag my favorite cooks: Leann, Blest, Stephanie,

More Coupon Sites

You know over this holiday season I have discovered the joy of shopping online!! I can shop for 3 kids -- without their knowledge. I can immediately balance my checkbook -- instead of forgetting to do it when I return home and being surprised when I check my bank balance. The mail man and our park manager do most of the lifting and carrying. And I have many boxes from which to choose when wrapping gifts -- always a plus! I have shopped around to find good deals on my purchases and recently this site was brought to my attention -- Coupons & Discounts NCNatural has links to many online shops including Amazon, Chadwick's, JoAnn's Fabric, and my favorite Target.

These of course are just a few of the sites listed. The home page is very easy to navigate, separating and listing each retailer alphabetically. Then each retailer's page has a list of coupons from which to choose. The whole site is updated daily and you WILL save money using them.

This post sponsored NCNatural.com

Advantages.........

Do you know the advantage of having 15+ Veggie Tales Movies?

.......peace and quiet to pack and load the van for Christmas!!


Do you know the advantage of having a set order to the movies to be watched?

........not having to stop every 30 minutes to referee the argument over which movie is next.


Do you know the advantage of having an 8 year old who can operate both the VCR and DVD player?


.......not having to stop every 30 minutes to do the job myself


End Result:

The entire van is cleaned out, a family of 5 is completely packed, over packed in some cases, the van is loaded to the hilt with luggage, presents, Santa goodies, and of course the absolute necessities of Barney, Wee Wee, Tinky and assorted pillows. All of this in under 3 hours.......

PayPerPost Video

I have been blogging for payperpost for a couple of weeks. You know those sponsored posts you keep seeing. They pay me to advertise on my blog for different companies. Some of the sites I wouldn't have seen if it wasn't for payperpost, other sites I have seen and used before but the difference is I will get paid to write. So yeah it is a little cheesy, but I get to write, which I actually like doing, and I get paid for it, something I never dreamed would happen. It is a start. I get to choose the opportunities I write about and see the websites I promote before I do it.

In previewing an opportunity I got to sit and watch this video:



\It is all about Payperpost moving into their new office space. You can see these are real live people, that work in a real office, whose taste in office colors are a little bright. I am impressed with the professionality (is that a word?) of the employees shown and glad that they shared some of their experiences.

This of course is a sponsored post.

My changes post ....

....is still in draft mode but I need to post something........

so I thought I'd post

A Christmas Card for Everyone!

Just a note:
It is interactive - directions appear in the bottom left hand corner of the card
Stick around until the very end and turn up your speaker!

It is more blessed to give......

....than to receive.

A dear friend referenced this in her post just tonight. And I thought about it when I read that PayPerPost, or more specifically Ted at PayPerPost has the great HP cameras to give away. I want to win one of these cameras.

Up until a month of so ago, I would have kept it for myself, however, I have been gifted with an awesome digital camera and memory stick. So I don't need it anymore. However, if I were to win this camera offered, I would be able to give it to someone else so that that person could share some awesome digital photos with her loved ones. I even have someone in mind who really wants one, however, I can't reveal her name because I want it to be a surprise and I am pretty sure she reads my blog. However, I do know she has a wonderful opportunity to take and show off some pretty good pictures coming up in July. She would also be able to show us more of her wonderful service dog who is so cute and so helpful to her. What an awesome wedding gift this would be for her. Humm.... I could even take it to her and help take candid shots at the event itself......

This post is brought to you by HP

December Declarations

I am late again on the December Declarations -- so here goes 11 more, since I las posted these on the 10th :-).

* God has placed me in the absolute best situation for work AND educating my children
* I have healthy, intelligent children that bless me daily with their knowledge and love of the Lord
* I am imaginative and that can be used to glorify HIM
* I am inquisitive and desire to research and learn more about my God
* I have a wonderful husband that supports me in everything I do
* I have a great family that holds me to a high standard
* I am creative and love to work with my hands
* I am an inspiration to others (man that one is hard to believe sometimes.)
* I am motivated to help others
* I am a blessing to others (That is another on that is hard to believe sometimes.)
* I am a good wife and mother.

Got Lighting?

Remodeling your home? Do you need lanterns inside or outside. This site has links to many beautiful lanterns that will go with any decor. From the traditional ones patterned after the original gas lights of the 1800's to the New Orleans' French Quarter appeal there are many to choose from for the outside. Not doing the outside -- there are a host of candle and oil lanterns that will enhance the beauty of your rooms. You can't beat the softness of candle light to soften the atmosphere of any room. What about your next out door BBQ? How about strings of paper lanterns to decorate and provide a unique atmosphere for your get-together.



This is a sponsored post.

Celebrating a Year of Abundance

Sallie, over at A Gracious Home, has a wonderful post. She speaks of Celebrating a Year of Abundance. It is a simple concept really. She wants to limit her spending as much as possible and concentrate on using what she already has. I like the concept. I am a bad one to go out looking for something to to a project or to finish one up rather than using what I already have. Two areas I am especially bad in this are my crafting, particularly cross-stitch and my new found love of stamping, and cooking.

With my crafting, I am always wanting to try something new or just plain old get bored with a project and start different one. I am going to finish things I already have started and not buy any more things to start new ones, the one exception to be made will be card stock and or ink -- once I have used up all I have now -- because well, that IS consumable.

With cooking, I have never been one to sucessfully be able to put things together and come up with a good dish. My husband is wonderful at this, so I have a built in tutor in this area. I will also work on substitutions that will work for the missing ingredient. If something just CAN'T be substituted. I will have to go without. I will make my menus and grocery shop once a week. With my normal school schedule I can't do it any other way. It will also stop those 'I'm to stressed to figure out what to cook, let alone cook it, let's eat out nights.

Just as Sallie is planning, I am planning on periodic updates on my progress and changes as they occur,

Win a FREE iPod

Today is the last day to enter to win a free gift and it is an iPod today. All you need to do is go to DealsVista.com, find a great deal and tell others about it! DealsVista.com is a deal website for bargain hunters. You can find many great deals with incredible low prices here, including computers, electronics, gifts, books, movies, toys and much more. Why are they doing this? It is a marketing campaign to get you to refer others to their website. Why am I telling you about it? To give you a chance to win a free iPod.


This is a sponsored post.

Christmas Stocking

Xmas Stocking

leave a gift for momof3litlbugs your username: your gift: (30 characters or less) get your stocking

Disclosure Policy

This policy is valid from 19 December 2006


This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. This blog does not accept any form of advertising, sponsorship, or paid insertions. We write for our own purposes. However, we may be influenced by our background, occupation, religion, political affiliation or experience.

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The owner(s) of this blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements, we always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the bloggers' own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

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Post topics

Christmas
Lessons in the dessert
Callings
Who are you following?
Contentment vs Comfortable


just a working list....

Model Cars

My father and my two older children have gotten into a Thomas the Tank Engine phase. Dad has a hobby room set up in the bonus room over their garage and he now has a train track set up in the room. It originally wasn't a Thomas one, however, he found that Thomas is the same scale as the original and so it has changed ;-).

Anyway back to my topic. I was searching online for Thomas pieces and came across this site. Not only does it have trains, Thomas and others, it also has model cars, pedal cars, and planes.

I thought of my BIL, who shows old cars and wondered if he had models of any of the ones that he has shown. HUMMM.......

This is a sponsored post.

December 16 already

I have had several post topics running though my head lately. I have yet to form one of them into a real bonafide post. Yes, Jamie the Christmas post is one of those. Another of those is my lessons in the desert post. I have Christmas pictures to post, but my house is decorated, only the tree, which for some reason has a big gaping hole in the lower right hand quadrant of it. I had promised pictures of my nativities, however, only one is out and that one sorely needs to be dusted and arranged. I also have packing and lists to make as we are going to celebrate Christmas at my MIL's over the weekend.

I am praying things slow down over next week -- Hubby works Tuesday through Saturday and I will get some things in order and actually get a couple of these posts and pictures done.

Christmas Online Games

IT is time for Christmas break. I have 2 whole weeks of sleeping in, no kids, no lesson plans, no picky eaters...... who am I kidding? I am a mom with 3 kids used to getting up early, and one of which is a VERY picky eater..... anyway I do have some downtime. This morning I was blog hopping and discovered this Christmas online games. What a wonderful way to kill even more time online. There is the Elf Toss Game where you see how far you can have a team of two elves launch a third elf across a frozen pond and the Greet Santa Game where you try to steal presents from Santa. My favorite is the Gingerbread Hangman Word Puzzle! It is hilarious to watch him get eaten, I actually threw the game to watch it.

What is more, this links to Blue Mountain eCards and the games double as said eCards. You can also sign up for a month free trial of for the eCard service.

This is a sponsored post

For Jamie

I will post my Christmas piece just as quickly as you posted yours.......

.... if not quicker.......


lol!!!


let me get through this week -- only 3 more days of school left ----

If at all possible it will be next week........

Christmas Gifts Bonanza!!

Okay, so you know that post I just made about needing something under the tree? How about a Gourmet Gift? Oh. My. Goodness. There are 100's to choose from here. You can choose from dinners, to desserts, to chocolates, to coffees and teas, to spices, to cheeses, to ..... to....to..... well you get the idea. Have them shipped straight to the recipient and you don't have to do any wrapping or shipping. It will be hard to go wrong with Gourmet Gifts!

The Tree ..........

............... is up!

and there are lights and ornaments on it........


Now for something to put under it..............................

Calenders

How many times have birthday's and anniversaries and other special days just slipped up on me? I mean, if it wasn't for my daughter's incessant daily reminders I probably would have let her birthday slip up on me last month. Did I tell you she was 8 now? LOL

Anyway, I have found this awesome online calendar, put out by American Greetings, that lets me add birthday's and anniversaries and other important events to my own personal calender. I can then set reminders to be sent to me when I want them, from the day of to 30 days before. You can even have 2 reminders sent. One in time to send a card and a second one the day of, so you can send an e-card, straight from the site I might add. These reminders can be sent to your email, my preferred choice, or to your cell phone. All of these choices are made by the click of your mouse and the site is so user-friendly it didn't take me long to add about 20 birthdays and several anniversaries for the coming year.

The service requires you to sign up, but it is FREE, my favorite price tag. And all personal info is kept confidential.

Interactive Faith Builders

Discussion: How awesome would it be if today, in our daily life, our entire city could hear our from rejoicing far away! In what areas of your own life do you recognize lack of joy and thanksgiving? Is your heart joyful in the everyday mundane stuff?

Oh this is a hard hitting question. Especially since I am typing this at bed time. Earlier in my life I would have immediately said mornings were stressful and least joyful. However, since returning to work the Lord has given me Psalm 118:24 which has made my mornings so much brighter and easier. Many days getting out of bed is so easy, I am still working on getting out of the house joyfully but we are getting there.

However, bedtimes are definitely one of the most stressful times in our house. You see I have children that are just like me -- night owls. We all would rather stay up late and sleep late in the morning. But as we must get up early in the morning, we must go to bed early at night. My 8 year old understands the concept, she doesn't like it but she does understand it. My 4 year old is beginning to get the idea, he doesn't like it any better than his sister, however. The 2 year old just doesn't understand the concept at ALL. He wants to do everything his way and going to bed early doesn't fit into his plans. He lets everyone else in the house know that as well. It is these nights that really lack joy and thanksgiving.

As I sit and type this, however, I realize that many times they are just feeding off of my own lack of joy and dislike at stopping the evenings activities in order to get to bed. However as I look at that verse closely I see a couple of things that speak to me about my evening attitudes.

The verse says "This is the DAY the Lord hath made" First of all it doesn't specify a specific part of the day. it just says day, that means the WHOLE day, morning, noon, afternoon and night. Secondly the Jewish day begins at Sundown, just before we prepare for bed. The original audience for this text were the Jews and that is the way they interpreted the Psalm -- day beginning in the evening. Not only does it not let me off the hook by saying morning, but even if we slide off into concentrating on the early parts of the day that still coincides with the evening times.

I believe this verse just became my whole day verse......

Pay Per Post Blog

I have just recently joined Pay Per Post. They pay me money to review websites post these reviews to my blog. However, I just discovered that the guys there have their own blog. Now there's a novel invention, a blog to keep others informed of what is going on. It is great! I have added the rss feed to my bloglines list and I can now keep up with all the goings on over at Pay Per Post. Even if you don't blog for Pay Per Post I'd suggest you take a look at the blog. There are some really neat pictures posted of a charity event in which they lent a helping hand.

December Declarations

Over at the Women at Home boards several of us have taken up the challenge to list a December Declaration for each day of the month.

The guidelines, set out by one of our dear ladies, Vicki, were as follows:

Let's change things a bit for December: each day state (declare) something positive. Declare a truth about God, yourself, your family, whatever . . . just make it a positive declaration.

Examples:

• I am precious to God
• I love my husband
• Today is a beautiful day
• I made a delicious meal tonight

The idea for December Declarations comes from Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

So get out those Positive Thinking Caps, place them firmly on your sweet heads, and get prepared for a month of declarations.

The ones I have listed so far go like this:

• I am fearfully and wonderfully made
• I have a great husband, who isn't perfect, but is honest with me when he fails.
  
• All Things will Work out for good for I love God and am called according to His purpose!
• My God has everything under control.
• I am a benefit and helpmate to my husband!
• God has placed me in a WONDERFUL school, with WONDERFUL kids, parents and co-workers (yes they are ALL wonderful)
• God has given me the victory over struggles and temptations!
• My God is an AWESOME God!
• I am blessed to have a small part in producing the Christmas musical that my daughter is singing in at the church where our school is located, and working with such talented adults, from whom I can learn so much.
• God has blessed me with a unique beauty that is just right for ME!

There are the first 10 --

Who will join me?

Wordless Wednesday

Contentment

Online Shopping for Chirstmas?

Do you like saving money while you shop? Do you like to shop from your seat and not your feet? Do you or are you going to shop online for Christmas?

If you answered yes to these questions then this online coupons site is just for you. Think these can't be good retailers? How about Target? Here you can save 10% on your order ? Or do you have pets. Save 25% on Small Pet supplies at PetCo? Or the one that I am getting ready to use Oriental Trading Company, but hurry that one expires today. Need clothing how about $20 off a $60 order at Chadwicks.

There are many more to choose from just look here!



This a PayPerPost blog

Interactive Faith Builders

How do you display the joy and peace that Christ has filled you with? How do you use the gifts that He has trusted you with to heap joy on those around you?

I admit I haven't done well with this in the last few weeks and months, especially Saturday night through Sunday afternoon/evening. I get so so SO bogged down in listening to the enemy and not remembering the promises and lessons of my Savior. So I am going to change up the question somewhat to fit where I am now and what I am learning and to challenge myself to do it.

How can you display the joy and peace that Christ has filled you with? How can you use the gifts that He has trusted you with to heap joy on those around you?

From the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. These were Jesus' words, in teaching his disciples and in turn us. And therein lies the key for me. Not only will my mouth speak but my whole countenance will portray what is inner most in my heart.

Case in point, this morning I was in a foul mood. It all boiled down to one point; I didn't want to be in church. I don't really have an explanation or reason why, I just didn't. Oh I know that that the deeper reason was the fact that the enemy didn't want me there. He wanted me to miss a blessing, an opportunity to serve, or an opportunity to be a blessing or some sort of combination of the three. I didn't say a word about it the fact that I didn't want to be there. I even tried to work and act as if it were any other Sunday. However, what I was really concentrating on was how I didn't want to be there, what a crummy Sunday morning I had had and where I really wanted to be, home in bed. I was even allowing my mind to wander into some unwholesome areas. Yet I tried to maintain somewhat of a 'cover' and sing the words, participate in the service, teach my class. After the service, we were all getting ready to leave, I thought I had made it. Yet, Mrs. Minnie a dear soldier of our corps came over to me and gave me a hug and asked how I was doing. She said I seemed "down in the dumps" I didn't have anyone fooled and I knew it. But I really didn't care.

So to answer the question. How can I display the joy and peace that Christ has filled me with? By saying "No!" to these negative thoughts and concentrate on the joy and peace that God has given me. Yes, it will be hard, especially in the beginning. However, I know from practice that the more I do it the easier it gets.

The second part of the question is a bit tougher. In order to use the gifts I have to be sure of them myself. Which is what I am working on in the first section. However, I can NOT just sit by and concentrate on only myself. To do that would not be growing and stretching myself. Nor would it be obeying the instruction to our gifts to serve others. So I need to decide on practical ways to use these gifts that God has bestowed on me.

Stay tuned.....

Life Lessons

This year has been a hard one for me personally. I have learned a lot about myself -- not all of it pretty or nice. I have learned a lot about God -- quite a few things that I thought I already knew. I have learned a lot about my husband -- some of it quite surprising. I have learned a lot about relationships -- several things I should have already known.

The ups and downs have been, at times, dramatic and now I feel a need to write some of this down, yet I struggle to put it into words or coherent sentences. So I looked back in my archives to find something I wrote earlier. Here is one that I need to go back to time and time again. I remember writing it and meaning every word that I wrote yet as I went back and read it I realized that I have forgotten once again....... so I guess I am still learning.......

Just one thing to say.......

....... Gator Food


Did you expect anything else?

1000 Gifts part 2

My 1000 gifts

Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.

16. Uniball Signo pens - black ink micro fine
17. Christmas stamps in the mail
18. Stampin' Up cardstock and envelopes in the mail
19. Green ink pas
20. Black ink pad
21. Colored Pencils
22. a free afternoon planned to make Christmas Cards
23. Granddaddy T's desk - handmade with skill, care and most of all love
24. Granddaddy C's bookcase - handmade with skill, care and most of all love
25. Corner Curio made by Granddaddy C - holding my Precious Moments.

Wordless Wednesday

Guess what we will be doing this weekend?

a few things

First of all,.....

Go down and answer the Christmas Question -- I really do want to know your answer, Thank you Debs and Ang that have already answered. --

Secondly .....

I want to know your favorite Christmas movie ... I am compiling a list

Thirdly. .....

Do you want pictures? Well, you are going to get them..... My MIL and my sister teamed and gave us our Christmas present early.... a Digital Camera and a memory card -- (the memory card my sister got was actually supposed to go with the camera my mother got us but it is all good I am getting clothes and shoes from my mother and dad now lol! )

It is another Egypt

Today I was listening to the radio and someone, on some show, made the comment that, conservatives are out birthing liberals. Which led to the conclusion that soon enough there will be many more conservatives than liberals. Which led to my thinking process which said "that is why the liberals are trying to gain all the power they can now and really supress the conservative agenda before that happens. It really is another Egypt .......

A Question for you

Tell me what you think, and YES I do want your answer, no it is NOT a trick question.

What is the meaning behind Christmas and the celebration thereof?

1000 Gifts

My 1000 gifts

Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.

Getting Started

Time to get started on this -- or I never will ;-)

My 1000 gifts
Today I am focusing on the biggies

1. Salvation
2. Husband
3. Oldest Child
4. Middle Child
5. Youngest Child
6. Home
7. Church
   
8. Job
9. Hubby's job
10. Extended Family
11. W@H
12. Friends
13. Co-Workers
14. Vehicles that run
    
15. Pepper - our miniature Dashound

Praise God

thanks for all your prayers!! We really felt them! At least I did.

The tow people did cut the break line but fixed it TODAY at no charge

There are a ton of praises in this

Hubby wasn't hurt in the initial 'wreck'
He made it home safely last night
It is fixed now
We had the money to pay the enormous bill
We will be reimbursed for it through the auto insurance
His lead tech was totally understanding

I am sick and an emotional wreck right now. Hubby's truck is stuck in the mud, and it is dark, and he HAS to have it for work, and this is ONLY his 6th week on the job, and he had to miss scheduled jobs last Friday b/c he had to finish Thursday's job, and, and and.

Yes a tow has been called but I don't know anything else.

Just pray

update -- he is out -- to the tune of $235 -- unreal........

UPDATE again

It appears that the guy that pulled it out nicked a brake line

the tow was $235 to begin with and now this -- Pray the guy is reasonable, fixes the truck - tomorrow, And doesn't charge us any more,

Pray that Steven's boss is understanding, while he DID get himself stuck in the mud, but he didn't cause the break problems -- and gives him some grace.

Where have I been?

God has been growing and stretching me lately. I want to write about it, I need to write about it. I know writing will help me process it all and really help me define what it is that is going on here. However, when I sit down to write I find I am without words. Some of it is personal, but still something that needs to be worked through.

One thing I know, I must sit down with my husband and work out some new family routines now that our home lives have taken such a drastic turn in the last few weeks. Both at home and financially our lives are so different now and we haven't taken time to really re-evaluate what we are doing and going to do. It seems so much easier to allow things to go on status quo -- and the enemy would love that. He seems to attack every time that we perk up to make needed changes. Those attacks are well aimed and hit very hard, which leaves me/us gasping for the very breath we breathe. Thankfully this time the down wasn't so far and the turn around has been quicker.

I have this time

I could, should, NEED to be studying -- I am several days behind in Bible Study -- So why am I here? To kill time. I want to be here to help hubby when he gets home with his paperwork. I have done what I can until he gets home.

okay I will be studying now.....

My 1000 gifts!

My 1000 gifts

Join me!

Why is it .....

.....just when I start to believe things will be okay - or okay - something like this happens???

or

.....just when I am beginning to get Psalm 139:14 ~ all of the sudden it is just words on a page???

Inquiring minds want to know???

shamelessly stolen from Becky

1. What's the biggest library fine you have ever had to pay?
2. Have you ever tried to talk yourself out of a speeding ticket? Did it work?
3. Have you ever left the bathroom with toilet paper stuck to your shoe?

more about W@H

I wrote yesterday about a wonderful W@H testimony- precious ello's salvation and subsequent baptism. Today I am going to brag on W@H in a totally different way. Like I said W@H is a wonderful group of women and at any one time, we will have a number of things going on. For example right now, we have just started a new BINGO game, we have a Biggest Loser contest going on, we are in the middle of at least 4 different Bible studies, we have just finished a praise challenge, and we have all the day to day chatter about books, eats, jobs, marriages, kids, you name it, we talk about it.

Back to the brag -- I am taking part in our Biggest Loser Challenge -- we are all working different plans but with the same goal, to lose weight. Each week there is a challenge posted to the two teams. This week's challenge -- create a menu for the week and post recipes from that menu. Well for the first time in several weeks I created a menu Saturday. Now that in and of itself wasn't a major brag, I actually did it BEFORE the challenge was posted. I just had to transcribe it to the thread for it to count and I will post recipes soon.

But because of some major motivating from a precious team member, I realized exactly what this menu planning is all about. It isn't just about saving money while grocery shopping and planning healthy meals for my family, both highly important and been sorely lacking around here in the last few weeks. It is also about prioritizing time -- both to actually DO the menu, but having it ahead of time makes it easier to plan out my evenings at home. For example today, I came home, sat down at the computer to check email and in on the boards while the kids and their dad were outside finishing up a few last minute things. Then I was able to get into the kitchen with a clear plan on what to do for dinner. I could plan what and when to do things so that I got dinner on the table, and here is the important part in CLEAN dishes, on a CLEAN table, with CLEAN counter tops. When I walked into the kitchen I had none of those things clean. And all of this was done in about an hour (remember I had to clean things as well as cook) without the benefit of a stove (Shanna when is that part coming??). And what is more, I also have clean dishes, table and counter top AFTER dinner as well!!

Praying things go just as well tomorrow......

What is WAH?

Back when I first started blogging, I started searching around and reading blogs written by people like me. Through these I found mentioned again and again this group called WAH aka Women At Home. The more I read of the members, yes both positive and negative, the more I longed to be a part of the group. Well just over 2 years ago WAH opened up their own website and message board. As stated on the introduction page,

" While W@H is a Christian organization, any woman may join -- we just require that she understands that this is meant to be a safe place for everyone. If you have questions, concerns, need someone to listen, or just want a reason to laugh, then there is a very good chance that you should be at W@H as well."

That is just what we have, a place to ask, seek, love, listen and be ourselves. The most wonderful testimony of what we have took place this weekend in a land far, far away. We had a wonderful girl join the boards who is from Belgium named ello. ello was a seeker and asked us all the tough questions, However, through the ministry of all the women there who answered questions and just loved on and prayed for her she made a decision for Christ! There was great rejoicing in WAHland. ello found a church close to home and started praying for her boyfriend, who has since accepted Christ, himself, more rejoicing in WAHland. Now ello since she had made her decision she waned to follow with baptisim, but could find no one willing to baptize her, since apparently she was baptized as a child. So she shared her desire and request with us all. Enter another amazing WAHwoman Zoe. She volunteered to fly to Belgium from her home in England and go to baptize our new sister in Christ. And that is just what she did!

* warning the link takes awhile to load *

How is this for family resemblence

Eli at 15 months

My father at 10 months

Food Journal

You can ignore this if you so choose -- and you probably will -- I am just placing it here for accountability and ease.

Saturday 10-21-06

supper: Sonic Cheeseburger with mayo and pickles only
Onion Rings
Vanilla Coke

(so I REALLY blew it............)

Sunday 10-22-06
Breakfast: Musli Cereal (Kroger brand Mulex)
Skim Milk

Snack: Rold Gold Honey wheat pretzel twists.

Lunch: Steak Quesidillas (Tyson Steak strips, chedder cheese, 3 pepper onion blend, flour tortillas)
Iced Tea

Supper: left over meat loaf
Iced Tea

Monday 10-23-06
Breakfast: Muesli Cereal
Skim Milk

Lunch: 20oz Pepsi - minus what the 2 yr old drank ( yep that is it! I barely held that down)

Supper: big mistake eating at all
cheeseburger
chips
iced tea

( I believe I was suffering from food poisioning from the left over meatloaf on Sunday -- I suffered with feaver and upset stomach until about 3:45 am when I threw up -- I started feeling better immediately)

Tuesday: 10-24-06
Breakfast -- Honey Nut Crispix Cereal
Milk

Lunch: half a grilled chicken salad
iced tea
2 squares of a caramel candy bar

Supper: Grilled chicken breast strips
baked beans
iced tea


Wednesday 10 - 25-06
Breakfast: Honey Nut Crispix Cereal
Milk

Lunch: Frito Chilli Pie
Iced Tea

Supper: Loaded 3 Meat Pizza
Iced Tea


Thursday: 10-26-06
Breakfast: Honey Nut Crispix Cereal
Milk

Lunch: Cheeseburger w/ mayo, pickle, ketchup
Mozerella Sticks
Iced Tea

Supper: Totino's Pizza rolls
Iced Tea

Friday: 10-27-06

Breaksfast:
Jimmy Dean Ham and Cheese Omlet
Milk

Lucnh
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Side Salad
Iced Tea

Supper: will be......

15 years old

Today is a weird day for me. A young man whom I have only seen twice in his life, had his 15th birthday today. I have no idea where he is or what he is doing, I can only assume that he is going to school at my alma mater, the same school from which both of his birth parents graduated, his father the same day I did, his mother a year later.

The last time I talked to his father was 13 years ago today, a short but very agonizing conversation.

Why am I bringing this up? I don't really know, I haven't thought of this child in a long time and don't think that I have thought of him on is birthday since 13 years ago.

There is a story behind this.... there always is...isn't there? I dated this child's father 13/14 years ago and 3 or so years before that. Between those two times was his relationship with the child's mother, which obviously produced said child. They were two youngsters, that went too far that one night, afternoon actually, and well .... you know...... Anyway, she was a sophmore, he a junior at the time. No they weren't getting married right then they were too young. That would come after graduation. Together with her parents they worked out the 'perfect' solution. Birth parents would give the child up for adoption after birth and mother's parents would adopt child. He would be raised right there in their home with mom close by and dad just a few doors down. Once they got married, he would be their's once again. Sounded too good to be true. Son was born in October of mom's juinor and dad's senior year. Papers were signed, all was good. Dad graduated and went to the local community college and worked full time to be able to live on his own and support mom and son. Soon however, things started to unravel, In September, just before the child's first birthday mom decided she didn't want anything to do with dad any more and walked out of his life, taking son with her. He had no parental rights, they were signed over in the adoption. Dad was devistated.

Guess who came in to pick up the pieces? Right, me! I was only too glad to be there and pick up. Soon enough it wasn't her he cared about any more. He just missed his son. He wrote long letters to his son often and was going to keep them until he turned 18 and could give them to him. I admired that in him and wanted to help. Our relationship started out only as old friends we had been through a LOT together in high school (totally unrelated to his girlfriend and child both before and during thier relationship). We had several common denominators -- his best friend was a good friend of mine and went to church with me, band, journalism, and Spanish classes.

However, the more time we spento together the more it grew, really surpising both of us. It was he that gave me my first kiss. It was he that listened when my college roommate turned on me. And it was he that I first believed when he told me I was beautiful. However, and most people don't believe this ( I probably would be skeptical too if anybody else told me this), we NEVER slept together.

However, because I was 2 hours away in school, and my parents didn't really approve of the match anyway. He broke up with me in early October, 13 years ago, I called him one time after that (on this night) just to see if he was okay. And havne't talked to him since. I do know he got married ( about 6 months before I did) But that is all I know. And I think all I really care to know.

However, I do wonder what his son knows of him....... I suppose I'll never know the answer to that question......

Okay

I know I am horrible at this blogging thing lately! I am not having a lot of computer time and what time I do have I spend mostly at WAH or reading my Bloglines. I have a lot to write about and never really sit down to compose my thoughts and take the time to type. I promised Blest a post earlier this week. But this isn't it yet.....

There are some changes taking place in our household. After 10 months of unemployment my hubby started work last Monday. With that my two year old, who has always been at home with mommy or daddy, started a day care. While I HATE the fact that it has to be done. I have been blessed to find a wonderful Christ centered childcare for him. And it is just 2 miles from my school, which I have already talked about being a wonderful place to work, since I have to.

Over the next few weeks we will be reevaluating responsibilites and routines around here and get a chance to get things back on track.

22 days

Has it really been that long since I blogged??

Things around here have been insanely busy. I have forgotten just how busy it is to work full time!

Let's see to catch my few readers up on life:

* I have lost 10 pounds since starting with the other ladies on One Weigh or Another.
* I am getting ready to start a Disciple Study with several W@H girls -- which will take up even more time -- but hey the best time is spent in the the Word, is it not?
* I will get to go to Women of Faith in October!!

* Two of my bugs have started school and are doing wonderfully as long as they pay attention.
* The third bug will probably be starting a daycare soon, which leads to......

*Hubby has interviewed several places in the last 3 weeks and has a promising prospect we should know more about in the next few days!!!

* My niece turned 2 and we celebrated her birthday in style -- with a Razorback win over Alabama!!!

"Que the Duck!"

The secene : The fellowship hall after church waiting on Daddy to come back from the van run.

The players: My 3 Bugs

The action: Entertaining another lady and me by crawling on the floor pretending to be different animals.

The oldest was a cat, then they all were cats. Then they were dogs.
They went around the zoo being various animals until the oldest got to a duck.


Then the youngest -- the two year old -- goes, "I'm Aflac!"

Then and now

I did this quiz twice answering like I would have in High School:

You Are 56% Shy

Although you live a pretty normal life, you tend to be a fairly shy person. Many situations make you feel uncomfortable, and you sometimes find your shyness hindering your life.

How Shy Are You?

And answering like now:

You Are 24% Shy

You are slightly shy, but overall, your reactions to social situations are normal. You dread difficult social situations, but you still handle them with grace.

How Shy Are You?

A bigger change than I expected.

Let's Say Thanks

With both of us coming from military families, and having a nephew getting ready for deployment, this just touched my heart.

If you go to this web site, LetsSayThanks.com , you can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it and it will be sent to a some person that is currently serving in Iraq. You can't pick out who gets it, but it will go to some member of the armed services. How AMAZING it would be if we could get everyone we know to send one!!! This is a great site. Please send a card. It is FREE and it only takes a second.

My passion

I was reminded by God this week of my mission and my passion. And if you remind me I will write out a post describing my experience and the mission God gave me several years ago. But right now I am swimming amidst lesson plans and school supplies.

Busy, busy, busy,

That has been the story of my life for the last week. However, I am amazingly blessed to be working with such a Spirit filled group of ladies. I mean, when we start our day off with prayer, it is one of the most moving experiences I have experienced. And we get to do this on a daily basis. That is what is so awesome! In my last school, we started the day with prayer, but they were rote prayers. It was just something that was done because it was the thing to do. Here is something else. These prayers aren't just limited to school and the things there either. They take on the heart of the individual praying. I am truly blessed. I also have gotten more done than I ever imagined I could the first week back.

Tackle It Tuesday

I have not done one of these for a couple of weeks. Mainly because my life has taken a sudden turn for the busy. I have started back to work and am now having to organize a classroom, get ready for a school year and keep a household running at the same time. So my Tacke it Tuedays will take on a new theme in the coming weeks.

For this week it is:

• Unloading my teaching stuff from the two shelves full, and I mean FULL, from our storage building.

• Going through stuff and getting rid of the JUNK, that was something I didn't do when I put them in there.
  

• Deciding what is needed for Kindergarten and what is First Grade.
  

• Packing up things in separate boxes.

• Storing First Grade things.
  

• Taking Kindergarten things to school
  

I can't believe I am this tired

..... no wait yes I can.

Today I have:

·····spent 8 hours in and around my classroom
··········bulletin boards are up
··········books are found
··········most of the furniture located for my classroom

·····spent 3 hours tutoring at Sylvan

·····gone to the bank

·····eaten supper

·····taken 3 kids to the grocery store
···············that deserves a medal in itself

·····put up purchased groceries

·····done bed routines, including stories and prayers, for all 3 kids


more news tomorrow....hopefully.....

Works For Me Wednesday

~ Oatmeal ~

We have switched from instant oatmeal to the regular cooked kind for several reasons; price and natrual ingredients are just two of them. It was hard to make the change intially. And it wasn't just the kids balking at it. It was me. I couldn't stand the bland oatmeal taste and it was hard to get over the texture of it, too. Don't ask me how it was different I couldn't tell you, but it was. Well after several tries my husband successfully got me to try and several more tries later, actually like regular oatmeal. I couldn't tell you how the texture issue worked itself out but I can tell you about the taste issue.

We make our own flavored oatmeal! Our favorite right now is apple cinnamon. (incedentally the favorite instant oatmeal as well). It is easily accomplished too. When I boil the water for the oatmeal I replace 1/3 to 1/2 of it with 100% apple juice concentrate. When I measure out the oatmeal to cook, I add 1 tsp to 1 Tbsp of cinnamon - this depends on how many I am making for. As the oatmeal is cooking I prepare the bowls. I slice and finely chop apples on the bottom of the each bowl. When the oatmeal is ready I ladle a serving in each bowl (not that my oatmeal is that runny it is just an easy way to serve and I don't have complaints that "s/he got more than me".) Top each bowl with a heaping tablespoon of brown sugar and a generous splash of milk and they are ready to go.

I am going to try banana nut next, well for the kids anyway. Banana is one fruit I CAN'T STAND!

For more great ideas see Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer

We're having a baby!

Well, okay not me. Had you there a minute didn't I? lol.

Our pastor and his wife are. Capt. Luke just called me and said that their contractions were 10 minutes apart and they should have a baby by this time tomorrow! I'll post the news when I hear more. Meanwhile please keep them in your prayers.

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen reasons why I joined One Weigh or Another, sorry Blest 1. I don't want to buy larger clothes again 2. I want to fit in the clothes I already have 3. I want to buy smaller clothes when I actually have the money to do so 4. I want to feel good about my body. 5. I need the encouragement of others 6. This is cheaper than WW 7. Leann is doing this too! 8. I want to start making heathier choices for me and my family 9. I want new taste good recipes to try 10. I need to work to avoid the high blood pressure that runs in my family 11. I need hubby to avoid it as well 12. I kept saying I needed to do something.... 13. There is no time like the present! Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Works For Me Wednesday

Okay this is a newly discovered idea. I love the idea of weekly menus and have tried several different times in the past to implement them. But it has only been just recently that I have figured out a way to make them really work.

• I printed up a blank weekly calendar from PrintMaster.
  
• I then divided the days into three sections. A small one for breakfast, and two bigger ones for lunch and dinner.
• I then fill in the easier sections first
  
• Breakfast is always really easy; cereal on the days that I work in the morning, then rotate between things like waffles (frozen), French toast and oatmeal on days that I don't work early.
• Some of the lunches are easy; days I work mornings get sandwiches, it is up to hubby and kids what kinds. Other days are more invovled because I am working afternoons I like to cook lunch on those days. Sundays always depend on if we are eating at church or not.
• Dinners again rotate, easier things on days I work afternoons. Thursdays always get leftovers because that is our day to spend the afternoon in town at church meetings. Fridays it is homemade pizza - toppings vary from week to week.
  
• I try to put one new recipe in a week -- this week it is Pizza Chicken today -- If it is a keeper that recipe then goes into my recipe keeper.
• I fill in the leftover spaces with other dishes that I like to make and I know my family likes.
  
• I keep the menu on the fridge in a sheet protector.
• I make it on Satuday afternoon, check supplies, and make the grocery list from it. Only one trip to the grocery for the week.
  
• And -- this is the best part -- After the week is over, I put it in a notebook to keep for later to give me ideas.

For more great ideas see Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer

Tuesday Ten

1. Gift card for a manicure
2. Items for upkeep at home of said manicure
3. Money for a new haircut/style with Heather
   
4. A book or two
5. A journal or two
6. A pretty purple pen or two
7. A good Bible Study
8. A new Bible
   
9. Gift card to Olive Garden or Sr Taquila or Chi's
10. New Shoes

It is Saturday again.......

I wish I could actually sit down and post when I had things running through my mind instead of grasping at straws when I do have time to post. I guess I need a running blog list and jot down things when they come to me and then I would have blog fodder when it I actually have time to post I have ideas to write.

This week has been different for me. I interviewed with the private school again Tuesday afternoon. I heard back from the principal Friday afternoon. She wants to hire me but is unsure of the numbers and weather or not they will have enough to create the another class. She thinks so and is praying about it but asked that I wait a week until she can make a determination on the numbers. I said I would. What else am I going to say? I have other resumes out, but no open interviews right now. Just as she said I am beliving God for the opening. I am completly at peace on having to wait, but get impatient on wanting to know. Does that make senses. God has been saying "Be still and wait" and "I know the plans I have for you" over and over so that is what I am striving to do. I think, however, that I am slipping into a school mindset once again. I keep thinking of things I will get to do and trying to plan things so that I won't get stressed out in the classroom or at home.

I have also been semi-preping my oldest two to start thinking of going to school. For the oldest it is somewhat easier than the middle one. She has been in a classroom setting before. But this time it will be so much different for her because she will be making the jump from kindergarten to second grade as it were. She will be fine I believe, the curriculum will be a much better fit for her ( an me for that matter ) and she won't be so far ahead of her classmates.

The other one is a different story. Even if we didn't homeschool last year, this would still be his first in the classroom. He was asking his sister about what all would be going on and of course she was more than happy to tell him. I think he will be okay as well but not quite as confident about it.

Everyday Things

".... For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstance" Phil 4:11

Jules over at Everyday Mommy has a new endeavor, a weekly topic on everyday things. Read more about it here.


Today's Everyday thing is a take off on Jules' herself. I choose my glass of Southern Sweet Tea. That is my coffee. After years of practice I have gotten the technique down to perfection, at least at my own house. When ever I make tea elsewhere it hardly ever tastes right.

For me and my house it goes like this.

1. Take a glass measuring cup, Fill 1/2 with water.
2. Microwave until boiling.
3. Take out. Insert 2 family size tea bags. Add sugar (correct ratio is 1/3 c of sugar per quart of finished tea)
4. Allow to sit until a dark brown.
5. Take out tea bags, stir sugar until disolved
6. Pour into pitcher. Add water until full.
7. Pour over glass of ice.
8. Enjoy!! The first glass is ALWAYS the best!
   

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen I am looking forward to when I go back to the classroom.
(No I haven't heard anything yet. I am thinking optimistically here) ;-)

1. New School
   
2. Another teacher on my grade level.
3. ABeka Curriculum
   
4. Begining the Day with Bible Class
   
5. Memorize Bible Verse a week.
6. Chapel Services geared towards children
7. Journals
8. Creative Writing
9. A Poem a Day
10. Math Facts
11. Science from a Biblical Perspective
12. Social Studies with a Christian Influence
13. An opportunity to teach another grade sometimes.

Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)


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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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Works For Me Wednesday

Back in the kitchen for this week!

Those of you that read me often know how much I love recipes and cookbooks. I even have a unique recipe collector, subject to a prior WFMW. Keeping these handy and clean while in use have been a challenge for me and so I have come up with some ideas that have helped tremendously.

To keep those recipes from getting splattered and easy to read I have slipped them into page protectors. That way I can easily wipe off any splatters that occur and the actual recipe stays neat and clean.

If I have recipes that I have cut out of something, like a box or bag, that don't fill up a full page and would get lost in the protector I simply tape them to a page of computer paper and slip that into the protector.

Also, if you turn the protector upside down and slip the page in from the bottom, things don't splatter in from the top. A simple piece of scotch tape will keep the paper from falling out if you have trouble with that. But you don't have to seal the entire top.

Now I can take the recipe out of the binder and place it where I can see it when I am working. I either lay it on the counter or table, or hang it under the cabinet next to the wall - a piece of scotch tape works well here too, or if I am cooking on the stove - use a magnet and keep it on the vent hood over the stove.


For more great ideas see Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer

Amazing Love

In the last week I was the recipient of a gift from two dear friends of mine. They sent me a gift card. I simple gesture, that expressed a LOT of love. These ladies knew of the stressful times my family has gone through in the last seven months. We have been the recipient of several gifts of love in these last few months. Each of them has been greatly appreciated and saw us through just a little bit further. And while we have thanked each and every giver immediately and several repeatedly, the ultimate thanks and praise go to my Father in Heaven. For without Him, we wouldn't have survived, with out without the gifts. Without Him, I don't believe we would have received those gifts. He prompts those who love Him to act, fills them with compassion, and prospers them to be able to give. Thank you Father, and thank each and every one of you who have prayed for us. Please continue these prayers, I feel we are on the verge of an answer. I want to be open to it and accept God's Will for us at this time.

A Tribute.

But is is not here it is at my MIL's site. Please go by and see.


For James


James, We love you too, don't you ever forget that.

heard arouond my house....

the kids are all in the boys room picking up toys, on just the other side of the wall from me. Daddy put the oldest "in charge" to keep the boys moving.

I heard the oldest saying "Pick up cars." after the second or third time I heard, "I am going to tell Daddy you aren't helping."

I quietly remarked to my husband, who is behind me watching the news of the day, "you are about to be drug in the conflict."

"How so?" He asked. To which I repeated the statement I just heard.

"Oh I thought you meant the Israeli/Lebannon conflict." ...........

Everyday Things

My Everyday thing this week are good God loving, God fearing, Seeking to serve Officers.

As some of you know, my family is a member of The Salvation Army. Many people don't know that the history of the Army, and the fact that it started out as a church and is still a thriving Bible teaching, God loving, God serving church. In reference to the term "Army" in our title, we use military terms for many things, our churchs are called corps and our ministers are called officers. Which brings me to my topic for the day.

The corps we are members (or soldiers) of is relativly young, only about 10 years old. And about half of that time we have been in turmoil, because our leadership was in personal turmoil. And as many of you know first hand, when the leadership staff of a church is in personal turmoil it flows out to the rest of the church, wreaking havoc on every day life in everything it does. After several leadership changes in the last few years, we have finally begun to heal. Most of it was started with our last set of officers and for the first time in 10 years we have had a change of officership that wasn't forced and has been totally natural. Capt. Luke and Annette have been wonderful to get to know and share our vision for the church. I am so happy to have them here.

Sombody please explain to me.......

It is 93* outside. Why oh why are my children arguing and throwing fits over fall and winter jackets?

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Books in Mt. TBR (to be read) Purpose in Prayer by E.M. Bounds Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis The Bondage Breaker by Neil T Anderson Names of God by Nathan Stone Can I Control My Changing Emotions? by Annie Chapman .... How to Behave so Your Children Will Too! by Sal Severe The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet by Rachael & Richard Heller The Beloved Disciple by Beth Moore Breaking Free by Beth Moore The Confident Woman by Anabel Ghillham Captivating by John and Staci Eldridge Fill My Cup, Lord by Emilie Barnes Do You Think I Am Beautiful? by Angela Thomas Links to other Thursday Thirteens! leave your link on Mr. Linky

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants