Joyfull Living

A Life That Says Welcome

2012-02-01T20:56:00.000-05:00

Does the phrase “Company’s coming!” send you running for cover? It did for me, for years! It took so much work to be 'hospitable" and open my life and home to others. Cleaning, cooking and entertaining would become too much work to do, then after all the work, I was too exhausted (and grumpy) to enjoy the festivities.

This book - A Life That Says Welcome, changed my view of hospitality. It shared the difference between entertaining and offering hospitality. Entertaining places the emphasis on you and impressing others.

Hospitality places the emphasis on others and refreshing, not impressing, them.

The author Karen Ehman will be leading an online study of the book in March. Some of the highlights this book and study will teach include how to:

Recognize the reason for offering hospitality
Identify the top five excuses for not opening your home and apply simple solutions to combat them
Arm yourself with cooking-for-a-crowd menu ideas, make-ahead freezer meals and kid-friendly favorites
Acquire weekly speed cleaning strategies, a proven system for de-junking your house and simple, doable decorating tips
Obtain creative concepts for living a life of welcome wherever you are

If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, go visit Karen Ehman for all the details. There is even a giveaway of the books! You will never look at entertaining the same again, but will learn to embrace the opportunity to open your heart and home to others with 'a life that says welcome"!

Simplicity

2012-01-30T20:02:00.003-05:00

Texture Tuesday at Kim Klassen Café features the theme “Simplicity”. That is the name of the texture added to this picture.

“The simplest things are often the truest.”

This little pot of flowers, is pretty simple, but strategically placed by the entrance of my home, brings a boost of color and usually a smile when I see them. Truly, it’s the simple things all around us that bring joy to the heart when we stop and seek for them.

Adding Some Incorruptible Beauty

2012-01-29T13:56:00.001-05:00

A recent Sunday morning found me 'mid way ready' for church. You know the phase, not yet complete, not ready to venture out of the house because 'the look' was not in place. My hair was half way done, make up was not yet applied and still in my robe, did not have my Sunday best on yet.

My son came home from spending the night at a friend's house and asked what my father in law's vehicle was doing in the yard. Since I hadn't heard them come up, I had no idea. Later, I found out my in laws were 'carpooling' to save gas on the way to church since they had to leave at different times. The thought hit me, it wouldn't have been a good time for them to drop in, on a Sunday morning, since we were not yet 'ready'!

In addition to the physical side of getting ready, our spiritual side wasn't ready yet either! You know, you're ready when you arrive at church, all smiles, hands extended to shake and the answer of 'just fine' on your lips when the preacher asks how are you this morning! We were not quite there yet as we were irritable with each other over little things like taking turns in the bathroom, not getting up when called, the wrong look, the wrong words and on and on it can go!

The verse that was ready earlier came to mind. I Peter 3:3-4 "Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God."

Sometimes so much attention is given to the outward adorning - how we look, what we say and what we do. But the beginning preparations begin in the heart. A gentle and quiet spirit. This isn't just sappiness and it isn't always easy. In fact, it takes a deliberate effort to speak gently when we would like pointedly get our point across. Quietness may oftentimes mean not saying exactly what we think needs to be said - and takes extreme effort and self control not to. Quiet and gentle allows room to see more clearly those around us and their needs since we're not so focused on getting our point across. Quiet and gentle makes room for thoughtfulness, selflessness, compassion and graciousness.

When our desire and focus changes to allow quietness and gentleness in our hearts, we are changed from the inside out. Our words, attitudes and actions change. We don't have to worry about how we look and if we're ready to meet the world. There is an inner beauty - an incorruptible beauty that outshines anything we can buy or wear. We're 'ready and complete' to face the day and all it will bring.

This week, I'll be working on putting in my heart, more gentleness and quietness. Will you join me? It will look so good on you!

Exercise Yourself Toward Godliness

2012-01-24T21:06:00.003-05:00

My mind was made up, today was the day. I made my way into the closet to pull out the long neglected exercise ball. The book demonstrating the exercises was open at my feet, along with the hand weights. As I sat on the ball, ready to begin the quick work out, the telephone rang. This call was a prayer request that needed to be passed along through the prayer chain. Several calls and prayers later, as I looked at the clock, my allotted exercise time was up. Pushing through with a dedication to get this done, I did the exercise routine. It was an easy exercise routine, but since I had not been diligent in working out, this was hard! Ten minutes and it was done, but the effects were still going on in my shaky muscles.

For years, I had a fitness routine that worked for me. Fifteen minutes of weights in the morning and a brisk walk in the evening kept my muscles toned, my body active and my energy level high. But through the busyness of the Christmas season, one day of not doing it, led to another day, then a week, then a month. My muscles are softer and my energy lower.

God’s Word talks about exercise:

But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. I Timothy 4:7-8

The effects of exercise on the body are great, but to exercise toward godliness is profitable – beneficial, useful, advantageous. Godliness or godly character doesn’t ‘just happen’. Our good intentions will fall short. It is only through a daily routine of prayer and reading God’s Word that we exercise toward godliness. Our spiritual growth relates directly to our basic daily discipline of time spent with Him. This is where we draw strength that enables us to profit in other areas of our life. Our faith is like a muscle, the more it is used, the stronger it gets. When we purpose to strengthen or exercise in godliness, distractions will come. We will be tempted to take the easy way out in situations. Our eyes and attention will battle between godliness and the things of the world. But, when we first ‘exercise’ in that daily quiet time, we are strengthened in our heart to face these challenges. Resistance builds strength and will build us up in the ways of the Lord.

Just as is takes a mind set, followed by an action plan that cannot be swayed to develop a fitness routine, we can use that to grow our faith muscles and exercise ourselves in godliness. It will look beautiful on you!

A Sanctuary

2012-01-22T13:51:00.001-05:00

In my "Journey To Excellence" (my new year plan), this month focuses on Excellence In Worship. One of our favorite worship choruses in our church is "Sanctuary". The words to this small but powrful chorus are:

Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary
Pure and holy, tried and ture
With thanksgiving, I'll be a living
Sanctuary for You

Nothing stirs up a spirit of worship more than singing together in church a beautiful song dedicating our life to the Lord, a life of devotion and a sanctuary for Him to dwell in.

But...excellence in worship, takes it a step further. Farther than the church sanctuary where it 'feels good', and into our daily life where we must be prepared to be a sanctuary. Let's break it down:

Lord, prepare me, to be a sanctuary - There is nothing good in us. We are all sinners by birth, born with a sinful nature. Through God's grace and forgiveness, we are cleansed and made new and given a new nature. But, that old, sinful nature rears up in our life time and time again. A sanctuary is a sacred, holy and pure place. Somewhere holy and pure. Only God can prepare our hearts to be that sanctuary - "Create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me."

Pure and holy, tried and true - We are made holy by the forgiveness of sins by our Lord. Daily, we are able to approach Him for forgiveness and cleansing - "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." We can be pure and holy as we strive to do His will and when we fail, confess our sins. Tried and true. This is that process that may involve trials that pefect our faith. When we face circumstances that are hard, do we endure? Do we grasp our Lord and allow Him to walk with us through the trial, working out the things in our lives and strengthening our faith in Him? "The testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." James 1. He will not fail us and is able to make us 'tried and true'.

With thanksgiving, I'll be a living Sanctuary - for You - Giving thanks produces a grateful heart that recognizes and appreciates the blessings and transformation that comes from the Lord. As we walk through our days, lean on Him in times of trouble, let Him perfect our faith, we become transformed by Him. " I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12:1-2.

So, as that beautiful little chorus we sing becomes a part of our heart and life, the grip of sin and self slips and we allow His holiness and purity to change us from the inside out. Our heart is a sanctuary - a holy place where He dwells. Our worship changes from a song to a lifestyle. And it is a beautiful thing!

It's Healthy Weight Week!!

2012-01-18T22:03:00.000-05:00

Was a new year's diet plan a resolution for you this year? Is so, you're not alone. The new year for many people that means starting a new diet. And for many of them the next week, the second week of January, will be when they “blow” their diet and go back to square one. That’s why the Healthy Weight Network sponsors Healthy Weight Week during the third week in January, which this year is January 15-21.

Healthy Weight Week “is a time to celebrate healthy living habits that last a lifetime and prevent eating and weight problems, rather than intensifying them, as diets do. Healthy Weight Week promotes healthy non-diet lifestyles for children and adults of every size. It helps them move ahead to healthy habits they can live with long term - sound, reasonable habits that allow them to live well and get on with their lives. Eat well, live actively, and feel good about yourself and others.”

Diets don't usually work. It takes replacing bad health habits with better health habits. And it may not happen in 21 days!

Instead, Healthy Weight Week is about eating not like you are “on a diet” but adopting healthy living habits that last a lifetime. Recommended habits from Pathway To Healing include:

• Eating well. Choose balance and variety, focusing on fresh options from all the food groups. Enjoy your food!
• Avoiding deprivation. Instead, eat in moderation at regular times (three meals plus 1-3 snacks) to satisfy hunger, and tune in to your body’s internal signals of when you are hungry or full.
• Being active in your own way every day. Focus on the pleasure of movement and its health and energy benefits, not only on calories burned.
• Relaxing. Find ways to relieve stress in your life.
• Starting now, decide it’s time to be your own best self!

The Healthy Weight Network has some great information on living a healthy lifestyle along with identifying common diet fraud and quackery.

Instead of falling for the latest diet craze, let's arm ourselves with knowledge, work towards good habits that will last a lifetime.

What’s Your Go-To Verse?

2012-01-17T22:05:00.002-05:00

Do you have a go-to verse? One that blesses you and encourages you over and over. One that brings strength in time of trouble. One that you repeatedly seek out and go to.

Trust in the LORD, and do good;
Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
Delight yourself also in the LORD,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the LORD,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.
Psalms 37:3-5

This passage ‘found me’ several years ago. It reminded me to not look to the circumstances that are being faced, but to commit to the Lord and trust in Him. Whatever is to be done, He can do it. This passage through the years has popped up in devotions, sermons and through Bible readings. During numerous struggles through the years, this verse would be found and bring hope.

Now, I look for it! When I need to remember where to put my trust, where to turn or don’t know the outcome, I go to this Word and am helped.

Praise God for His Word, it is living and can be applied to our lives. It provides hope, comfort, strength and direction. If you need a place to hide in times of trouble, to gain strength in times of weakness, find comfort in times of grief, find hope in a crisis or need to simply praise the Lord for His goodness, find a ‘go to’ verse and hide it in your heart. Find it, memorize it and go to it to keep it alive in your heart.

Organized Simplicity - FREE!

2012-01-17T11:18:00.000-05:00

“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.” –WILL ROGERS

Many in our day and time express a desire to live more simple. The rush and stress of every day life causes havoc in our homes, families and heath. What is simplicity?

Removing the Mess and Adding Meaning - "Simplicity isn't about what you give up. It's about what you gain. When you remove the things that don't matter to you, you are free to focus on only the things that are meaningful to you."

Organized Simplicity is a book I've heard about and wanted for a long time! Today it is FREE!!! You can download the edition for your Kindle - or (like me!!), if you don't have a kindle, there is a free download application for you to read the book.

This promises to be a great resource to help begin the year in organized simplicity.

Gentleness Challenge - Tame That Anger

2012-01-15T22:02:00.000-05:00

This week's Gentleness Challenge focuses on "anger". Most everyone is affected in one way or another by anger. Although the intensity and outbursts may change, anger wells up in us all at certain times.

To enhance the quality of gentleness in our lives, we must look deep at what is not gentle. Anger is not gentle. The giving end and the receiving end are ugly. Anger makes us say things we wouldn't ordinarily say and act out in ways we usually wouldn't act.

A recent Sunday morning found me in front of the mirror wearing my Sunday best, having a good Sunday morning where the whole family was getting ready for church. Breakfast had been cooked, kitchen was clean, lunch was baking in the oven and we were on time. Perfect! As it got to be time to leave, one son was having issues with the right shoes, one son was still eating and one was hogging the bathroom. Quick as a spark, my anger lighted. Sharp words were spoken, feelings got hurt and our drive to church was marred by an angry reaction.

A variety of things can bring about a spark of anger. We will get angry at times. The only course of action we can control is our reaction. Self control is also a fruit of the spirit which can be practiced in those moments of anger. Self control restrains us from doing the thing we want to do when angry. It can save us from letting anger become destructive.

A verse I taught my sons when they were younger was Proverbs 15:1 "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." My reaction when angry can diffuse anger or stir it up greater.

A few steps to help control anger may be:

Step back - get away from the situation for a moment to regroup
Count to 10 - breath deep and focus on calming down
Slow down - NOW is the time to practice and gain self control
Express calmly the feelings or situation which brought the anger on
Find Bible verses on anger, keep them handy and read them in the heat of the moment
Respond, don't react.

Anger will flair up at various times. Be prepared for it to! But go ahead and plan a better response. Watch the circumstances which lead to anger, head them off when possible. Building character is simply replacing bad habits with better habits. This is built through practice! Make the effort to be gentle in the face of anger. The more we deliberately choose the right thing, the easier it becomes to do it.

Be challenged and encouraged this week to look out for and be ready to replace angry actions with self control and gentleness!

Worship Thought For the Weekend

2012-01-12T23:11:00.000-05:00

Worship is giving God the best that He has given you. Be careful what you do with the best you have. Whenever you get a blessing from God, give it back to Him as a love gift. Take time to meditate before God and offer the blessing back to Him in a deliberate act of worship. If you hoard a thing for yourself, it will turn into spiritual dry rot, as the manna did when it was hoarded. God will never let you hold a spiritual thing for yourself; it has to be given back to Him that He may make it a blessing to others. Oswald Chambers

God is worthy of worship - our worship, our best.

Mercy In Yellow

2012-01-11T12:08:00.003-05:00

“It’s habits that can imprison you and it’s habits that can free you and when thanks to God becomes a habit, so joy in God becomes your life.”

At the beginning of this year, I wanted to work toward living purposefully. To be aware of and daily seek to see God’s grace, mercy and love around me and be prepared to give them out.

I printed off the January Joy Dare, which gives a daily challenge to find joy in the midst of the day. This actually was printed off, but set aside until today – the 10th!

Today’s challenge was “to find 3 yellow things that remind you of fresh mercy”. You were also encouraged to write them down and/or take pictures of them. This morning started off gloomy as we awoke to some much needed rain. Seeking some yellow seemed like a great challenge. But the quote for January on the Year of Grace calendar says “Joy is always a function of gratitude, and gratitude is always a function of perspective. I we are going to change our lives, what we’re going to have to change is the way we see.”

So, after asking God to help me look for His gifts in yellow, I found:

A yellow highlighter, used to highlight God’s Word and biblical teaching which renews His mercy in my heart.

A yellow sticky note:

Our church has a prayer chain, where a prayer need is shared and prayed for. This morning’s request was written down on this sticky note, prayed over and passed down the line for a group of church family to pray for. God’s mercy afresh in prayer.

A yellow book:

This book is a tool in our family’s journey to better health. I haven’t gotten very far in it, but it represents to me, God’s mercy in our daily life, our food, our health and His wisdom in our choices.

Praising God today in the midst of daily life and seeking to share His blessings which are all around us, if we just have eyes to see!

The Gentleness Challenge

2012-01-08T21:14:00.001-05:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." Galatians 5:22

Most mothers want their mothering (and lives) to be filled with the fruit of the Spirit. These fruit are characteristics that are rooted and growing in the heart and overflow into the speech, attitudes and actions. These fruits are easy to identify and also easy to see where they may lack.

The Gentleness Challenge is a focus on the fruit of gentleness in our lives. This is an area I need some practice in! Gentleness wasn't something I grew up with and a trait that with three sons, was not cultivated and grown. But it is something I can identify in others and greatly admire.

Any area of life we want to improve must be dealt with by commitment and practicing and implementing the thing we want. God's Word is a great place to start to put into our heart what we want to come out.

You have also given me the shield of Your salvation; Your gentleness has made me great. II Samuel 22:36
I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephessians 4:1-3
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Phillipians 4:4-5
But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. I Timothy 6:11

This week's plan of action is to smile more, hug more, slow down, listen, take a deep breath. Gentlenss must be practiced and gains effectiveness during trying and difficult times. To practice and concentrate on being genuinely gentle! Reading and meditating on God's Word and praying for the Holy Spirit to bring forth gentleness.

It’s Who He Is

2012-01-03T21:06:00.003-05:00

Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth!
Sing out the honor of His name;
Make His praise glorious.

Psalms 66:2

Through this month’s Journey To Excellence, I’m focusing on Worship. Focusing more in prayer time, to worship Him instead of asking for things for myself. Some of the things to praise Him for are His love, grace, power, peace and strength.

He does give those liberally to us. But not only does He give those things, He IS those things. He is:

Loving Father (love)

Mighty God (power)

Prince of Peace (peace)

Living Bread (provider)

Wonderful, Counselor (wisdom)

The God of Hope (hope)

For every need we have, He not only has the answer – but He IS the answer. The great I AM – with whom nothing is impossible can meet our need, with Himself. May we sing aloud the honor of His name – it is who He is and that is all we need.

The Prime Rib That Keeps Giving

2012-01-02T20:07:00.000-05:00

Our family Christmas traditions of course, involve food! We enjoy separate Christmas meals with my family and my husband's family. His side is larger and we all chip in and bring dishes to create a lovely and bountiful meal. My side is smaller in number and I usually do the cooking for them. This year, prime rib was on the menu!

I had never cooked a prime rib, but being assured by friends and family they were delicious and easy, I purchased one. After scouring the Internet for directions, I found my method of cooking.

6-8 pounds boneless beef rib roast

1 tablespoon onion salt

1 tablespoon granulated garlic powder

1 tablespoon paprika

1/2 tablespoon freshly ground pepper, preferably white

1/2 tablespoon thyme

a few cloves of garlic peeled and sliced

olive oil

Bring the roast to room temperature.
Preheat oven to 450 degrees
Wash and dry the meat and rub olive oil on the meat. Put small slices into the meat and insert garlic slivers. Mix the spices together and rub them on the meat.
Stand the roast fat side up in a roasting pan. Put the roast into the well preheated oven.
Cook for 15 to 20 minutes on high heat, then turn the oven down to 300 - 325.
Cook approximately 20 minutes per pound or until temperature reaches 120 for medium rare roasts.

Complete instructions can be found at Perfect Prime Rib.

Now there were some leftovers! This is not a meat to let go to waste!

I sliced the bones off and made a fabulous beef stock. This was made by putting the cooked bones into a stock pot with onions, salt and pepper, thyme, parsley and simmering it for a long time - 4 hours or more. After cooking, place the pot in the refrigerator and chill overnight. The next day, skim the fat off the top and place the stock in jars or containers to freeze.

With this delicious stock, I made a pot of vegetable beef soup (using stock and cut up prime rib for the meat).

Then for one more meal, I cut up some leftover prime rib, added some beef stock and onions, and simmered a few minutes. Added a can of cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of sour cream for a fantastic beef stroganoff served over noodles.

I think I got my money's worth out of this roast!!

Excellence In Worship

2012-01-01T14:39:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the Journey To Excellence! This is my New Year's plan (versus resolution) to become intentional in striving for excellence.

January will find me focusing on worship. Seems appropriate for the New Year, the first month to focus on the Giver of all and seeking to acknowledge Him and His greatness.

When we think of worship, church services usually come to mind. In churches today "worship" coverse a broad range. There are churches with lively, expressive worship down to quiet, heartfelt worship. Whichever element of worship we find ourselves in, remember that true worship comes from the heart...and...it's all about Him.

In John chapter 4, Jesus met with a woman of Samaria. This woman was living in sin and Jesus had just called her out on it. She quickly changed the subject from her sin to 'worship'. She acknowledged that He must be a prophet and then began recounting the differences in worship traditions of the Jewish and Samaritans. Jesus answered her "Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father...But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” God is not limited by time or distance. Christians can commune with God anytime and anywhere. Jesus changed the topic of location to make worship a matter of the heart. The issue is not where a person worships, but how and whom.

May this year push aside the thought that worship is only for 'church time' and open my heart to worship the Lord anywhere and at anytime. May my prayers begin to change from what my needs are to acknowledge how great He is.

By taking time to worship Him instead of focusing on my needs, He is placed in priority position - FIRST! It has been said "There is never enough time for anything, unless you MAKE the time." New habits don't just happen, true worship doesn't just occur. Our minds and hearts need to be trained to acknowledge Him and His greatness. Some simple changes for this journey include:

Acknowledge Him first thing in the morning. Mornings are precious times that set the day. What we begin the day with will set the tone for the rest of it.
Take a few moments for worship in the Word. Read a Psalm a day. Pray those inspired Words to the Lord.
Remember that He is always near. Through the day, look for Him and His blessings, remember to thank Him. Tell Him He is worthy of worship.
Write a praise Psalm down and carry it through the day. Be reminded of His glory.
Find some reasonably priced inspriational home decor. Fill your heart and home with precious reminders of God's Word. Gaze upon it throughout your time at home. Let it be a witeness to your visitors.
Watch what we allow to enter our eyes and ears. Listen to worship music, read quality, inspriational books. Refuse to be distracted by the clamoring of the world through music and television.
Focus on the best choices in words, attitudes and thoughts. What goes in is what comes out!

Will you join me step by step this month to worship Him greater? He is looking for a true worshipper!

Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, You are very great: You are clothed with honor and majesty. Psalms 140:1

Taking the High Road - A Journey To Excellence

2011-12-31T09:04:00.002-05:00

Taking the High Road can be defined as "The most positive, diplomatic, or ethical course." Some other ideas mean doing the right thing even if its not popular or easy. To "take the high road" is to maintain impeccable integrity, honesty and decorum. To take "the low road" is less than that.

On our journey of life we work, we go, we do and can sometimes we can get lost in the shuffle of life around us. We see those we come in contact with and can fall into the same mode almost automatically. Take a look at the women you see around. Most conversations consist of how busy we are, what we have going on and where we are going to next. Christian women are stressed, harried, trying to do the right thing, but often fall short of meeting the expectations of everyone around them. Decisions are based on what needs to be done right now because time does not wait and all too soon it is time to move on to something else. "The High Road" looks nice, but takes so much effort, is it worth all the trouble to be distinctively different than the many on the basic road for life?

With a compassionate eye, let's take a look at women who don't know the Lord. Those who are not Christians, will not act like Christians, and we shouldn't expect them to. But a look at their choices reveal some deep needs in their lives. With their choices of dress (wearing pajamas in Wal Mart or clothes that may expose way too much are some extreme examples) to their tone used with children (listen in the grocery store to the frustrated mom) and husbands (speaking about with little respect) show that they desperately need the love and grace of our Lord. Low self esteem, hopelessness, laziness, irritation and not enough hope or will to change can bring any woman down. While many a Christian woman has walked in those shoes, grace and transformation has changed our hearts. May we never lose sight that our Lord pulled us up out of the miry clay, set our feet upon a rock and established our paths. (Psalms 40). A higher standard one holds to and with God's grace and love flowing from us, we can give those around us a glimpse of what the Lord can do. He alone can transform and change the heart. We are never above anyone else, but we simply have accepted the grace of our Lord and allowed Him to fill us with more of Him and less of us. And He offers that grace to all.

This New Year, I will be "Taking the High Road - To Excellence". Each month will be a pursuit of a particular area to excel in:

Worship
Faith
Grace
Prayer
Marriage
Speech
Dress
Nutrition
Simple Living
Vision
Time Management
Presentation

Daniel 6:3 talks of Daniel -"Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him;" An excellent spirit is something worth pursuing. It consistently brings out the best in every situation. It is behind the smallest task to the greatest thing we do. An excellent spirit makes the ordinary - extraordinary. But, it doesn't 'just happen'. It takes diligence, work, effort and guidance. It happens step by step, area by area, habit by habit. That's why I'm devoting this year to seek out an excellent spirit.

To help keep me on track, I'm setting up a notebook divided into 12 sections (one per month). My purpose is for that month to read, learn and grow in that area. Planning a New Years resolution is good, but purposefully practicing it, learning more about it and keeping the topic in front of my eyes is much more effective and hopefully will not only be learned, but implanted into the heart and extended into daily life.

Wear new habits and your life gets a makeover. Consistently do things at the same time everyday and find yourself a new person. - A Holy Experience

To do this effectively, I'll be putting these things into practice and sharing them weekly on the blog. I hope you'll come for a visit and grow with me on A Journey To Excellence" this New Year.

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. II Corinthians 4:6

Funny New Year Resolutions

2011-12-30T09:58:00.001-05:00

Many New Year Resolutions run along the same lines. We strive to eat better, lose weight, form better habits and use our time more wisely. Here are a few funny accounts of those New Year resolutions:

Starting the Diet: My friend Kimberly announced that she had started a diet to lose some pounds she had put on recently. "Good!" I exclaimed. "I’m ready to start a diet too. We can be dieting buddies and help each other out. When I feel the urge to drive out and get a burger and fries, I’ll call you first." "Great!" she replied. "I’ll ride with you."

Eating Healthier: The teacher in our Bible class asked a woman to read from the Book of Numbers about the Israelites wandering in the desert. "The Lord heard you when you wailed, ‘If only we had meat to eat!’ " she began. "Now the Lord will give you meat. You will not eat it for just one day, or two days, or five, or ten or twenty days, but for a month—until you loathe it."

When the woman finished, she paused, looked up, and said, "Hey, isn’t that the Atkins diet?"

Reducing Your Debt: Neighbors of ours had a terrible disagreement over a patio they wanted for their backyard. The wife had rather grand ideas, while the husband wanted costs kept to a minimum. The wife won out, and the construction bill climbed higher and higher.

I dropped by one day, when the patio was near completion, and was surprised to find the husband smiling from ear to ear as the workmen smoothed over the surface. I remarked how nice it was to see a grin replace the frown he had been wearing lately.

“You see where they’re smoothing that cement?” he replied. “I just threw my wife’s credit cards in there!"

Becoming More Organized: My friend’s husband is always telling her that housekeeping would be a snap if only she would organize her time better. Recently he had a chance to put his theory into practice while his wife was away.

When I popped in one evening to see how he was managing, he crowed, "I made a cake, frosted it, washed the kitchen windows, cleaned all the cupboards, scrubbed the kitchen floor, walls and ceiling and even had a bath."

I was about to concede that perhaps he was a better manager than his wife, when he added sheepishly, "When I was making the chocolate frosting, I forgot to turn off the mixer before taking the beaters out of the bowl, so I had to do all the rest."

Smile! Let's make that a daily part of our New Year's resolutions! Happy New Year!

Not the Way To A Healthier New Year!

2011-12-29T09:46:00.001-05:00

This week, the week after Christmas and before New Years is one of my favorite weeks of the year. The busyness of preparing for Christmas is done, things have slowed down and I try to stay at home as much as possible. Our schedules seem to stop this week and there is much leftover from Christmas – memories, joy and….food!

After indulging in delicious Christmas food through the month from get togethers, banquets and family dinners, it is time to get back on track with healthier eating. Here are a few things NOT to do:

Replace your fruit bowl with candy kisses:

Store all the other Christmas candy in a bucket for easy access:

Snack on items such as…

My father in law’s delicious pound cake:

My aunt’s Christmas cookie assortment:

So, this morning finds me purposing to eat better , exercise more and have a healthier home. Some interesting articles that will help guide me can be found:

9 Healthy New Year Resolutions

14 Walking Workouts To Burn Fat and Boost Energy

8 Meal Planning Tips For Healthy Eating

This week will find me enjoying these indulgences until they/re gone (waste not, want not!), then gradually incorporating the good habits in which will bring the benefits and blessing of overcoming the bad habits! The journey to a healthy lifestyle begins one step at a time!

His Indescribable Gift

2011-12-27T21:23:00.006-05:00

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

II Corinthians 9:14

I’m a bargain shopper! But through the years (after bringing in way too much ‘junk’), I’ve learned to seek after quality items – at a great price!

This nativity set was found at a yard sale a few years ago. It is just gorgeous and a prominent display in our home during Christmas time. The lettering on the wall says “Everyday Is A Gift” and came from the Dollar Tree for $1.00! It is a little way to remember the blessings we receive every day.

As Christmas is fading into our memories, may we keep alive in our hearts the reminder that Jesus is an indescribable gift. He came to earth as a baby, lived a sinless life and willingly laid down His life as a sacrifice for our sins and made the way for us to be reconciled to God. What a gift – truly indescribable.

But, He lives today and the lyrics of this song remind us of His glory and power:

Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
All powerful, untameable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God.

May we keep Him alive in our hearts and keep hold of His indescribable gift to us – everyday.

Making the New Year Resolutions Stick

2011-12-26T10:48:00.000-05:00

Through last week, things were busy making last minute Christmas preparations and then enjoying special times with family and friends. Christmas came and went in the blink of an eye! But the treasured memories will forever stay in our heart.

This week often finds us looking toward the New Year. What will it bring, what are some things we want to do differently, what good habits do we want to incorporate into our lives?

In 2011, one of my goals was to "Grow In 4 G". Increasing in:

Grace
Genuine
Generosity
Greatness

This outline gave me some things to work toward and I see the Lord do some great things in my heart. But one more thing impacted my year even greater.

Having a general plan is good, but for me to be diligent, I needed some day by day activities to keep me on track. Over at A Holy Experience, there was a challenge to find 1000 Gifts. Monthly sheets were available for free download to mark at least one gift a day. This may have been the first time ever, but I stuck with this for an entire year!! Each morning, I would think of a gift from the Lord, I was thankful for and write it down. This led to being aware through the day of the many blessings that were easy to overlook. Simple things all around such as:

church family holding hands to pray
early morning sunlight streaming through bathing the room
a dad and his boy walking with a dog following behind
sharing a meal with an unexpected guest
and many more

This year, the Lord is working in my heart to grow in excellence. Many ideas are swarming around to grow and through the year journey in excellence. Once things get more settled, I'll be sharing with you!

May this week find you with a thankful heart and a prayerful and expectant heart for the Lord's work in your life.

If you are interested in finding blessings through each day, A Year of Graces is available for free download. You can print the year long calendar off at once, or simply do month by month and jot down a gift from God each day. This will give a blessed start to the New Year.

From Chaos To Creativity

2011-12-24T08:14:00.001-05:00

Although creativity is not my strongpoint, I've learned that presentation can be very important. What our eyes perceive at first glance is where much of our opinions are formed and whether we like what is presented or not!

In food, gifts and how we carry ourselves, presentation can enhance and bring beauty to the ordinary.

For Christmas presents, I like to make baskets filled with many little things. This year, homemade beauty items were given.

My closet is my holding place for the gifts and a place for chaos. I couldn’t even put up my shoes!

But, there came a time when some order had to come. Here is the ‘stuff’ to fill the baskets:

Now the hard part – putting it all together. The goodies were divided up, placed in a basket and thanks to some advice and suggestions from a neighbor who is creative, and wrapped up.

The finished products:

Now, these are not Better Homes and Garden worthy, but if was fun putting them together and I learned a valuable lesson for life:

A little extra time and effort for preparation, can make the ordinary shine.

As we celebrate Christmas, may your heart and home be filled with Christ’s love and peace. Merry Christmas!!

Don't Miss Christmas Week!

2011-12-19T08:27:00.000-05:00

It's Christmas week!! The week before Christmas when the countdown of mere days to Christmas Day begins. I can vividly remember as a child Christmas week. The excitement of knowing Christmas was almost here, doing last minute shopping with my mother and the atmosphere of joy all around.

Now that I'm the mom, anxiety is competing against that childhood excitement. Did I get all the presents, is the menu ready for Christmas dinner, is the house clean enough for company? On and on the list goes and it seems like I"m running out of time. It's almost enough to put me in panic mode!

I've allowed this attitude in years past to get the best of me. The day after Christmas has come with me wondering "what happened to Christmas?" With the busyness of things to do, I missed the magic of the moment.

Years ago on the first Christmas, others 'missed it' too. The city of Bethlehem slept, King Herod was jealous and fearful of being uprooted as king and the religious leaders of the day were filled with unbelief and busy about keeping the letter of the law. In our day, some of these same attitudes can try to steal Christmas from us - ignorance, competition, jealousy, covetness and fear. We can question ourselves - Are we good enough when compared to so and so? How do my gifts/decorations/cooking compare to someone elses? While we plod on trying to 'get it right' we often let slip the importance of Christmas.

The ones who actually did 'get it' that first Christmas were people like the shepherds, the Wise Men, the widow Ana and Simeon. Those who were simple in heart and life but keeping their eyes and heart open to the Lord and the His splendor. They were watching and waiting on God's promises to be fulfilled...and they saw it come to pass!

This week, may we be encouraged to slow down, be watchful and enjoy the simple sights of Christmas. Sitting in front of a fire with the family, hot cocoa, Christmas lights, sharing the Christmas story and keeping our heart renewed with a thankfulness for God's Greatest Gift - His Son. As we are going and doing, may our hearts and eyes be open and alert to His blessings this special time of the year. May His love and grace be received into our hearts and then flow out to share with others. That's spreading true Christmas cheer!

"Then let us all with one accord sing praises to our heavenly Lord;

Who hath made heav'n and earth of naught, and with His blood, mankind hath bought."

The First Nowell

Homemade Seasonings

2011-12-16T10:09:00.000-05:00

I love using seasonings for cooking! Those little McCormick packets have saved many of my meals through the years!! The Hidden Valley Ranch mix always brings out some great flavor to any food.

But, if you have noticed in the store, these little packets have gone way up in price. If you use one for each meal, it adds up...fast!

Here are two recipes made with spices usually found in your pantry for Taco Seasoning and Ranch.

Ranch Flavored Dip

2 tablespoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon dried dill

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon pepper

Sour cream, for serving

Directions

Add each of the dried spices to a bowl and gently stir.
Store in a resealable plastic baggie or small ball canning jar with tight fitting lid in your spice cabinet.
To make the ranch dressing, whisk together 1/3 cup mayonnaise with 1/4 cup milk(more or less depending on the consistency you want) with 1 Tbsp of the homemade ranch dressing seasoning mix. Season with salt, to taste. Use immediately and can refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Makes about 4 Tbsp worth of mix. Or use the ratios above and mix up however much you’ll need!

Read more at $5 Dinners.

Taco Seasoning

Ingredients

1 part chili powder
1 part ground cumin
1 part garlic powder
1 part onion powder
1/4 – 1/2 part crushed red pepper.

Directions

Mix all the spices together and store in an airtight container or in the freezer.
Use to taste, For tacos, add 1 to 2 Tablespoons to meat to season.

Read more $5 Dinners.

Making your own spices is quick, easy, saves money and is better for you!!

Word Filled Wednesday–A Prepared People

2011-12-13T20:59:00.001-05:00

He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

This is the perfect time of the year to re-read the biblical account of the first Christmas. God’s Word amazes me in the way that even though the passage may be familiar, the Holy Spirit can always show us something fresh and new if we read with an open heart.

In the above passage, the Angel is speaking to John the Baptist’s father about the birth of John. We know that John prepared the way for the ministry of Jesus. The words “to make ready a people prepared for the Lord” jumped out at me. Those words are surely something to ponder on in today’s times. Are we a people prepared for the Lord? Are our hearts eagerly seeking the Messiah, our Savior?

As we are in the midst of the Christmas season, may we be sensitive to hear the Lord and be people moved by grace and mercy. May our hearts be prepared to share the true meaning of Christmas - Christ came to save each of us!

Illuminate My Heart

2011-12-11T20:03:00.000-05:00

I LOVE winter!! Well….maybe it is because I experience Florida winters! Our area gets to experience a nice shot of cold air and then is warms up for a few days. I probably wouldn’t like to live in the cold day after day. But, one of my favorite things is winter mornings. Especially the ones where I don’t have to get up and go right out, but can sit in front of a warm fireplace, in my cozy robe with a cup of coffee.

This caught my eye one recent morning as I was coming to sit down to read my Bible, a ray of morning light shining on my chair.

As I pulled the Bible to my lap to read, that same bright ray of sunshine illuminated the pages. What was once ‘normal’, was now bathed in brightness and beauty. Illumination makes things shiny and beautiful. It adds special sparkle to what was ordinary.

In our homes, us as wives and mothers are usually the one to bring the brightness around the holidays. We decorate, bake, play music and add special festive touches to the home. In our hearts, when God illuminates or brings His life to, there is a shining brightness and beauty that shines forth. May this season, we be encouraged to ask God to illuminate our heart to truly embrace the meaning and gift of His Son. May we shine forth with the peace of knowing we are His and may joy overflow in and through us as we celebrate our King who was born so many years ago, but reigns today and forever.

There is no ornament that shines brighter than His love through us, warming our home and family. Lord, illuminate my heart to shine for You!

Tennessee Beauty

2011-12-07T21:20:00.002-05:00

We recently took a trip to Tennessee and were in awe of the natural beauty that abounded there! Here are a few pictures of what we saw.

It was a little chilly and I loved seeing the ice on the leaves:

Here is the creek that ran behind our cabin. What a beautiful sound – the sound of gentle flowing waters.

Just around the bend was a row of brightly colored trees. Look at this gorgeous color!

Then there were waterfalls and walking paths.

Breathtaking beauty that stirs the heart to praise our Creator!

Which Christmas Will You Choose?

2011-12-07T11:04:00.000-05:00

I'm digging through some old Christmas blog archives and found this cute, but true "Tale of Two Christmases". Our attitude at Christmas determines our actions. Will we fall into the mold of the world and be caught up in the buying and busyness of the season, or will we purposefully choose to remember and cherish Christ, the true meaning and the true Gift?

A TALE OF TWO CHRISTMASES
By Jim Smith.

It is the worst of times. It is the best of times.
The Christmas you have depends upon you.
May you be blessed to follow the Light and choose the right

A Christmas Poem

C is for Credit Cards that make buying a breeze.
H is for your Headache when your cards are seized.
R is for Remembering everyone on your list.
I is for feeling Insulted when your gifts are dissed.
S is for feeling Stressed when you're on the fly.
T is for the Truckloads of presents that you buy.
M is for your Massive debt that soars into the sky.
A is for the Awful feeling that you've gone astray.
S is for your Sorrow and the tears you'll shed today.

The True Christmas Poem

C is for the Christ child lying in a manager.
H is for the Holy One who saved us all from danger.
R is to Remember Him who died that we may live.
I is to Inspire us that we may always give.
S is for joyful Songs and sacred hymns that praise.
T is to Thank the Lord for showing us the way.
M is for the Miracles that bless us each day.
A is for the Almighty who always puts us first.
S is for the Shepherd who guides us on earth.

Christmas Joy For Two

2011-12-04T20:39:00.002-05:00

The holiday season has arrived! I love this time of the year. The decorations are up at our home, our calendars are filling up with opportunities to share fellowship with family and friends and there is excitement and anticipation in the air. Cool evenings are here and often spent by the fireplace and a good book.

This is such a wonderful season for families as they connect through cards, letters, visits and enjoying time together. Activities such as shopping, cooking, creating cards involve families working and sharing together and create wonderful memories.

However, in the midst of all the joy, fun, parties and added festive activities, a couple may struggle to find that 'special time' together. A time for just the two of them. Quality, uninterrupted time is vital for a marriage and when stresses are high and our to do list grows, our mates may get neglected or tossed to the side in the midst of all the activities. Some time alone can soothe, relax and rekindle the spark of love in a marriage. There are beautiful opportunities for togetherness that the Christmas season offers. A few ideas to bring some joy for two may be to:

Take a ride and enjoy the Christmas lights
Leisurely walk through the mall, enjoying the festive sights and sounds.
Enjoy a special candle light dinner.
Take a brisk walk together.
Go out alone to dinner and a movie.
Take in a craft show or Christmas concert.
Make eggnog.
Enjoy some together time at a coffee shop.
Go ice skating.
Stay home and enjoy some classic Christmas movies.

A tradition my husband and I have is to leave the kids in the loving care of Nana, and enjoy a trip to the mall, followed by dinner out. Through the years, I've learned not to make this a big shopping trip (with more stress!!), but to just enjoy the festive sounds and sights and being together as a couple. It's something we look forward to each Christmas season. Our boys don't seem to enjoy the little things that used to bring excitement to them when they were younger. Driving through neighborhoods looking at Christmas lights doesn't thrill them anymore. Hot cocoa isnt' such a treat to them. But, I've never outgrown these things and plan to use this year to enjoy these things with just my sweet hubby!

May we embrace this season with a spirit of joy, peace and giving, especially carving out some special holiday time for our husbands!

The Old Mill

2011-12-02T10:23:00.002-05:00

On our recent trip to Tennessee, my in laws looked up an old friend who lived in the area. We met up at The Old Mill where the man worked. During the visit he gave us a tour which I found fascinating!!

The Old Mill sells fresh products from corn meal ground on site including biscuits, corn bread, pancakes, hush puppies, muffins and grits. They also use their own grains for the homemade artisan style breads that are prepared each day.

Weighing one ton each, the massive flint granite stones, called French Buhrs, are only the second set ever used in The Old Mill's 175-year history. When they're in action, the stones convert grain into about 1000 pounds of product each day, six days a week. Resident millers then hand-fill, weigh and tie each bag of stone ground grain. For some interesting history see The Old Mill.

Here is the mill in action:

Grinding Corn:

Ground Into Fine Corn Meal:

Then bagged to be used and sold:

I’m so glad we took the time for a quick visit and also got a peek into the way things used to be done!!

Pumpkin Butter

2011-11-30T10:36:00.000-05:00

This little recipe is so easy, yet so delicious! Some way to use it may be to:

Spread pumpkin butter on your toast or biscuits
Pumpkin butter makes a great topping on pancakes.
Spread on crackers
Stir in oatmeal
Mix in with vanilla flavored yogurt

Pumpkin Butter

Adapted from AllRecipes

1 (29 ounce) can pumpkin puree, approx. 3 1/2 cups

3/4 cup apple or orange juice

2 teaspoons ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1 1/3 cups brown sugar

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Juice of half a lemon

optional - grated lemon and orange zest to taste

1. Combine pumpkin, apple juice, spices, and sugar in a large saucepan; stir well. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes or until thickened. Stir frequently. Adjust spices to taste. Stir in lemon juice, or more to taste.

2. Once cool, pumpkin butter can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge.

To preserve: Spoon hot pumpkin mixture into hot jars, filling to within 1/4 inch from top. Remove air bubbles; wipe jar rims. Cover at once with metal lids, and screw on bands. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

*FDA guidelines suggest pumpking is not suitable to can since it doesn't have enough acid.

It can be safely frozen to preserve or stored in refridgerator and used promptly.

A Shot of Gratitude

2011-11-28T21:42:00.002-05:00

Gratitude is a remarkable attitude. It can bring a new direction to the worst situation or stir up a heart to overflowing as it reflects on blessings.

Gratitude can and should be practiced daily. In big ways, such a counting our blessings and in small ways as noticing the beauty of small things, such as crunching leaves, a sunrise or sunset, the little blessings all around us.

This photo was edited by adding the textures of Autumn Burst and Shades of November. The memory of walking through the mountains is etched forever in the gratitude attitude!

Keeping the Main Thing

2011-11-27T18:52:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone and our thoughts and sights are moving toward Christmas. This weekend at our home, the Christmas tree went up along with the decorations to bring the holly jolly spirit alive! Living with a husband and three sons, I've learned that boys don't get into the festive spirit easily!

We all know what this time of year holds, much joy, much fellowship, food, family, friends and all that can add...much stress! The best remedy for holiday stress is to remember the true Reason for the Season - the birth of Jesus. This year as we go and do and take part in the many Christmas festivities, may He be first in our hearts and bring forth true Christmas joy in us.

I found a free printable to keep within sight as a reminder of all that He is:

Here is the link for you to print one to add the precious reminder of our Lord:
http://content.jonesdesigncompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/and-he-will-be-called-blue.pdf

Word Filled Wednesday – Bless the Lord, O My Soul

2011-11-22T19:52:00.010-05:00

Bless the LORD, O my soul;

And all that is within me,

bless His holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Psalms 103:1-5

Gratitude seems to come alive the closer we get to Thanksgiving. We all have so much to be thankful for and the warmth and excitement of the holiday sparks our hearts to thankfulness.

This year, I purposed to use the month of November to count my blessings and be thankful. Whew…who would have thought it was hard to stay diligent in being thankful! Gratitude should always be a part of our heart, but often the stresses of daily life mask it. When I need to release and refresh my thankful heart, this passage of God’s Word is a great reminder. May we join together and Bless the Lord this Thanksgiving. May we not forget all His benefits and then name them one by one! An attitude of gratitude is beautiful thing that adds beauty all around us.

Bringing It Home

2011-11-22T12:17:00.000-05:00

Last night, we got home from a quick trip to the mountains! The week before Thanksgiving was perfect for kindling a thankful and adoring heart for the Lord. The majesty of the mountains, the majestic waterfalls, the leaves on the ground crunching underfoot, the cool, fresh mountain air and the soft sounds of a running creek all bring up a grateful attitude. We stayed in a cabin simply, but beautifully decorated with a cozy atmosphere.

Every year, I do this, try to keep alive the feelings of vacation upon arriving home. The feeling of relaxation, the enjoyment of simply being together, doing basic things, walking, reading, talking etc. But....upon arriving home, there is laundry, cleaning then preparing for Thanksgiving! Seems like there is no time to recapture the vacation mode!

But, our attitude begins in our heart and Thanksgiving is a perfect time to notice the little things and create the atmosphere we desire in our lives and home. A heart still before the Lord will be exhibited through calmness and peace no matter what circumstances are going on around. A steadfast heart, remembers that God is the giver of all and we can trust in Him. His strength will sustain us through the busyness of our tasks and His joy allows us to find true joy and happiness in our surroundings.

As we enter a very busy week, may we keep our eyes on the Lord and our hearts still before Him. Thank you, Lord that You are all I need.

P.S. Pictures are coming!!

Free Printable Bookmarks

2011-11-20T18:22:00.000-05:00

Time Warp Wife is a blog filled with godly wisdom for women, but also some great free printables. There is something powerful that comes from a beautiful reminder of the qualities and virtues of a godly wife and mother. The theme of Time Warp Wife is "Empowering Wives To Joyfully Serve". What a great week (Thanksgiving week) for us to be reminded of the joy of serving with a thankful heart.

Here is the link for some free printable bookmarks:
http://www.artbookbindery.net/timewarpwife/BookMarkPrintable.jpg

Here is the link for some beautiful free printables:
http://time-warp-wife.blogspot.com/search/label/Inspiring%20Images
This will be a very busy week for many of us. May we rejoice in God's blessings and allow them to flow from our heart into our family, our home and the lives of those we come in contact with.

It's God's Love In Us

2011-11-15T16:32:00.001-05:00

For the last several weeks, I have joined Good Morning Girls for a Bible Study walking through I John. This has been a great study, but this week's verses came to life in my heart!

I John 4:7 - Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. This was good, but a fact that is well known. God is love and those of His, should love one another. But my study deepened with those words "knows God". To "know God' refers to an intimate knowledge of God rather than just information about Him. Anyone in whom God dwells reflects His character. As we know Him more and more, we will reflect Him more and more in our love for others.

Then the 'why': I John 4:9-10 - In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. This is no ordinary love we are talking about! God chose us...not when we were at our best, but when we had no idea of Him or His love. Jesus was sent into the world that we might have life through Him. WOW! For us???? Who are sinners by nature? He took care of that also. How can we ever repay that love? Oh...keep reading... I John 4:11 - Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

How important is it to love one another? There are times that it can be rather difficult! We all know a special person or two that seems to go against our grain don't we? I John 4:12 - No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. When we love one another, when it is easy and when it takes some determination, we reflect God to those around us. They see Him in our love, in our words, our attitudes and our actions. The more we love, the more He perfects that love in us.

As we enter into Thanksgiving season and we're beginning to count our blessings, may we put the love of God way up on top of the list. Then follow Him and show our love to those around us. What a glorious way to thank Him!

How To Live Out Proverbs 31

2011-11-14T20:57:00.000-05:00

I was 'cleaing out my computer' recently and came across this devotion about living out Proverbs 31. As Christian women, we want so bad to have these characteristics and qualities alive in our life that is often seems so overwhelming trying to live up to them. But, as with anything worth doing, it takes diligence and practice. Little by little, day after day, step by step. Here are some great ways to begin this journey.

Living a Proverbs 31 Life

Develop a life consumed by a positive outlook. This means that you have to look (and often search hard) for the uplifting moments of each situation. Understand that there is only one that worth of your trust in all situations. Putting your trust in God - and not people, things or situations - will go a long ways towards developing a Proverbs 31 Life. What is your first reaction to circumstances?

Create a sense of strength and boldness by walking in a life that is rooted in the Word. Confidence in who you are comes from knowing where you come from and all of that is in the Word. Do you know the rights and privileges that you are given through your family line?

Learn the power of words. What you speak and how you speak will direct your actions and attitudes and those of the people around you. Grow to speak with wisdom by thinking about your words and let each word be one of kindness that is designed to lift up and encourage others. How do you feel about the words that you speak?

Grow to a life of service. Provide for your family and for your guests and even for strangers that may find their way to your doorstep. What is your first thought when it comes to doing something for someone else?

Make the most of your day. Get up before sunrise to welcome the day with your Father. Getting up at the break of dawn will expand the length of your day. How many times do you hit the snooze button?

Look for opportunities to make the most of all that you have. The woman in Proverbs 31 had a vineyard and sold garments. What can you do to open opportunities and bring in blessings for you and your family?

Get into shape. It is important for Proverbs 31 living that you be prepared for anything that comes your way. This requires that you be physically, mentally and emotionally at your peak. What are you doing that keeps you from doing what you need to do?

Make the most of each moment and activity. Organize your actions and your time so that you can do more to stay active. Are you led by chaos or organization?

A Walk In the Cotton Field

2011-11-11T10:54:00.002-05:00

One evening last week, we decided to check out the cotton field right by our house.
The three of us rode the four wheeler although it was hard to capture the shot!

We had a great driver with one passenger in front and one in back:

Take a look at all this cotton:

Of course I had to capture the moment:

It’s not everyday you get to wander in a cotton field!!

Word Filled Wednesday–White For Harvest

2011-11-08T20:33:00.002-05:00

Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. John 4:35

There is a field near our home that is planted in cotton. It is almost ready for harvest and the field is truly ‘white for harvest’ as far as the eye can see!

Every Sunday our pastor has been bringing out the fact that Christians are to be distinctly different than the world. There needs to be a visible difference in the way they act, talk, think etc. People are watching and wanting a true hope. Will we offer them true faith, true love and an unshakeable hope in Christ? We need to be ready, the fields are white unto harvest.

Two For Texture Tuesday

2011-11-07T20:31:00.002-05:00

Today’s Texture Tuesday’s theme is “TWO”. On the spur of the moment came a four wheeler ride with two of my favorite guys – husband and youngest son and my photo of ‘two’.

The textures used were Golden and Grunged Old Paper.

Did the Probiotics Work????

2011-11-06T19:35:00.000-05:00

As part of the experiment that I shared about HERE to try probiotics, my two weeks are up and it's time to report the results.

Although my digestive health is overall good, I noticed a few foods seemed to bother me, mostly my favorites - macaroni and cheese, pasta and steak and potatoes! In fact, the night we went to Sam's to pick up the probiotic, we ate a delicious steak dinner out and for hours, I had discomfort from overeating.

Members Mark 4x Probiotic is found at a reasonable price at Sam's Club. According to Digestive Health For Me, this product contains 4 strains of natural beneficial bacteria. It also helps to support and maintain a healthy digestive system while promoting gastrointestinal health and digestive system balance. While it is recommended to take a probiotic following a round of antibiotics (which destroy all good and bad bacteria in the body) to replenish the good bacteria, I simply needed some balance and maintenance. Diet and stress are known to interfere with digestive health and they can easily get out of balance and cause havoc.

The dosage is one tablet a day is in a conveniently marked daily pack. It is easy to keep track of, has no aftertaste and is an easy to swallow size. After two weeks using this product, I feel great! None of the foods that usually affect me have given me a problem and I have indulged the last two weeks (just to make sure it works of course!). After researching the benefits of probiotics, I knew they would benefit me, but trying to incorporate them into my daily diet was hard. This method of one tablet a day assured me of the correct dosage with the convenience of a quick swallow.

Did you know that digestive health is one of the most important parts of proper immune functioning? This is because during digestion, nutrients (vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and fats) are absorbed and enter the bloodstream through the small intestine—a process that helps to maintain health and replenish the immune system. So, if you are not experiencing digestive problems, probiotics can be very valuable to your overall health which is the reason I'm going to continue to make probiotics a part of my health routine.

Disclosure: This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias and MamaBzz.

Practicing For Thanksgiving - With Food!!

2011-11-04T14:30:00.000-04:00

Thanksgiving Day will arrive in just a few weeks! Many of us are 'practicing and preparing' by daily counting our blessings and intentionally seeking out ways to be thankful.

Next in line is the Thanksgiving Meal. Whether it is an entire meal being prepared or simply a favorite dish to share, most of us will be cooking something this Thanksgiving. Some of the best Thanksgiving memories involve food and traditions - certain dishes, desserts etc.

Comfy In the Kitchen is one of my favorite food blogs. It is a place to always find cooking inspiration, exciting recipes and easy to follow directions. A new ebook Comfy In the Kitchen On Thanksgiving is a resource you will want to check out! This ebook is filled with traditional dishes along with some new things you may want to try out, complete with step by step pictures. I"m planning to practice on my family a few of these along with sharing at the traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

You will use this ebook for a long time!

PSST…This Is Personal…

2011-11-02T21:01:00.002-04:00

Although I don’t usually share too much personal information here on the blog, there is something I need to talk about….Digestive Issues!

What I count as one of my great blessings is good health. But, now being in my 40s, there are a few things that pop up here and there to remind me that my body is slowly aging. My eyesight isn’t what it used to be nor is my energy level. Digestive issues have never been a problem, but I notice that some of my favorite foods seem to bother me some.

As I intentionally pursue a healthy lifestyle, my diet and habits are scrutinized and healthier options are always being sought out. The topic of probiotics seems to pop up in most healthy living resource topics.

Probiotics refer to the bacteria that exists in the gastrointestinal track which supports digestion and the immune system. Probiotics are actually good bacteria that can be found in certain foods and also supplements. Probiotics are a type of living bacteria that actually benefit your health when taken in the appropriate amounts.

The following health benefits are associated with the intake of daily doses of probiotics.

Enhanced immune system response
Reduces negative affects of taking many types of antibiotics
Aids in preventing and treating colon inflammation following surgery
Helps to prevent eczema in youth
Increased ability to digest food
Therapeutic for viral respiratory tract infections by enhancing the overall immune system
Reduces lactose intolerance
Reduces incidence of yeast infections, vaginitis and candidiasis
Increases ability to assimilate the nutrients from food
Alleviates many common digestive disorders such as constipation, diarrhea and IBS
Acts as a remedy for bad breath (halitosis)
Increases ability to synthesize vitamin B
Increases ability to absorb calcium
Promotes anti-tumor and anti-cancer activity in the body

When an opportunity arose to try a 4X Probiotic for three weeks and share about it, I decided to do it! This product is available at Sam’s Club.

So, off we went to Sam’s:

Then, on to the Health Food Aisle and found the Probiotic:

And carried it home!

As usual, a trip to Sam’s is a treat for our family, because there is something for everybody.

Currently, I’ve been taking the Probiotics for a week and am liking what I’m feeling!! Will share more soon!

Disclosure: This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias and MamaBzz.

Planking, Tebowing and Avoiding Tragedy

2011-11-02T13:43:00.002-04:00

Have you heard of the fad – Planking?

According to Wikipedia planking is an activity consisting of lying face down in an unusual or incongruous location. The hands must touch the sides of the body and having a photograph of the participant taken and posted on the Internet is an integral part of the game.

A newer fad is Tebowing. Patterned after the example of Christian athlete Tim Tebow, who falls into prayer position to thank God during his football games.

“Tebowing” is to get down on a knee and start praying, even if everyone else around you is doing something completely different.

Yesterday, my 17 year old son and a few friends were practicing these fads at school.

Planking:

Tebowing – under a timely banner!

Double Tebowing:

These ''activities’ delayed their 30 minute commute home from college in a neighboring town.

On their usual route home, at the time they would have normally been traveling through, this happened:

An accident between a semi and a car resulted with critical injuries to the driver of the car. Had these boys not been ‘delayed’, they could have been involved in this.

This reinforced the call to pray each day for my family and their safety, for God to guard their paths and keep them from danger. Today, He answered that prayer. It’s enough to make a mama want to practice Tebowing!!

New For November

2011-11-01T11:19:00.001-04:00

Happy November!!! Beginning in September, I think each new fall month is my favorite! September marks the promise of fall, October finally brings some relief from summer heat but November marks full blown fall blessings! November kicks in with the anticipation of Thanksgiving and the beginning of the Christmas celebration season. The beginning of November means there is some time to prepare before the busy season and can be used as a month to prepare our hearts to truly enjoy these holidays.

Gratitude, thankfulness and contentment are some qualities of November and Thanksgiving. I'm hoping to use the entire month, not just the week of Thanksgiving to prepare and cultivate a thankful heart.

A timely newsletter arrived in my inbox this morning with some great thoughts to begin this month: This excerpt from the book "The Resolution For Women" by Priscilla Shirer often describes my attitude:

"Instead of relishing each moment, each year, each opportunity, each step on the journey, I'm constantly overeager to get on to the next thing, which always looks more enticing than what's currently before me"

Sometimes gratitude and contentment take deliberate, focused planning. Another quote from Linda Dillow's book "Calm My Anxious Heart" gives the reminder:

"Most of us base our contentment on our circumstances, on our feelings or on other people. However, true contentment is separate from our circumstances. Contentment is a state of the heart, not a state of affairs."

A few tools that help me keep a thanksgiving focus are identifying and writing down blessings and things I"m thankful for each day. A Holy Experience offers a beautiful monthly printable to record daily blessings or 7 Times a Day blessings. Sheri Graham offers a free "The Gifts Of Each Moment" adorable printout to keep handy and jot down those blessings experienced each day. (Scroll down to the bottom page of the newsletter for this printable.)

Feasting our eyes on beauty and the grace of God's Word each time we sit down at the computer keeps the heart focused on the things of the Lord. Revive Our Hearts has some beautiful fall wallpapers with Scripture and for the crafty The Shabby Shop offers a free desktop wall paper you can edit with your own photos or just enjoy some shabby beauty!

Last, but not least, the 30 Day Growing In Gratitude Challenge offers a printable or an email reminder for 30 days to encourage us to seek the daily moments of thankfulness and to be intentional about thanking God and others for the blessings that come our way every day.

Will you join me early this year to celebrate Thanksgiving every day?

The Five Scariest Things You Can Do This Halloween

2011-10-31T09:41:00.000-04:00

The one fear that America is missing is a fear of the Lord.

Today is Halloween. Although I love fall, Halloween is not something we celebrate. Opinions and family values vary greatly about this day and from one extreme to another. A recent article from Vision Forum brought out some sobering thoughts along with truth on some 'scary things' and the admonition to flee from evil from a biblical standpoint.

The Five Scariest Things You Can Do This Halloween include:

1. The scariest thing you can do this Halloween is to not make light of evil. Halloween was conceived in evil and has remained a celebration that uses children to promote a fascination with darkness and superstitious fear...The fear of the Lord makes men turn from evil (Proverbs 16:6).

2. The scariest thing you can do this Halloween is to not be fearful. The media wants you to be afraid of everything from overpopulation to global warming. The politicians want you to be afraid of the economy and political instability. God wants you to do what is morally right, trust Him completely, and never be gripped by an ungodly spirit of fear...

3. The scariest thing you can do this Halloween is to completely skip Halloween and remember Reformation Day. It was 494 years ago that Martin Luther nailed his world-changing 95 Theses to the door of the Wittenberg church. These theses included rebukes to ungodly fear and superstition... The Reformers did something that was very scary to the world of their day. They stood against all forms of dark superstitions which grip the minds and souls of men. It was their emphasis on the fear of the Lord and the wisdom of Holy Scripture that was used by God to liberate untold numbers of men and women.

4. The scariest thing you can do this Halloween is to refuse to watch or allow your children to watch any of the toxic Halloween and horror films emerging from Hollywood. America’s fascination with ungodly fear has made horror the most popular and fastest-growing film genre among youth. When parents allow their children to toy with this genre, they promote ungodly fear, and they contribute to the fear-factories in Hollywood that prey upon the youth of our culture. Say “no” to Hollywood horror and you will be dangerously scary to the media elite. “Fear ye not me? saith the Lord: will ye not tremble at my presence....?” (Jeremiah 5:22).

5. The scariest thing you can do this Halloween is to get on your knees as a mother and father and pray that the Lord will send you many children who will fear God, not man — children who will especially shun the glorification of witchcraft, the bondage of ungodly fear, and the “cute-ification” of evil that is promoted through holidays like Halloween. Cultures that toy with evil end up being cultures of death. The Christian response is to be a people of life...

For the rest of this article, see The Five Scariest Things You Can Do This Halloween.

Rekindling the Fire

2011-10-30T20:52:00.001-04:00

During this time of the year, words that we use to describe our homemaking duties include things like 'keeping the home fires burning' and being a 'keeper of the home" bring to life memories of coziness, warmth and love. When it turns cool outside, the warmth of home beckons us. Now, we know that fires don't stoke themselves and likewise the home fires don't burn without some tending to.

Our family just finished little league football which kept us out of the house almost every weeknight for months and this weekend was jam packed with homecoming parades, a big church activity, birthday parties, sleepovers, etc. With all this busyness, our home fires are burning low!

This week should find us at home more and I plan to do a little rekindling to fan the flames of the home. A few things I"m hoping to do this week include:

Baking some treats
A good clean up!
More time deliberately spent enjoying each other
Enjoying outside time
Cleaning off the back porch to sit out and enjoy the weather
Creating some filling and delicious home cooked meals
Simply making time to 'be there'

Little tasks like this that create a home atmosphere easily get lost in the busyness of life. We will again find ourselves in the throes of busyness, but while things calm down some, I'm going to build up the home fires!

What's your favorite thing to do to keep your home fires burning?

Supermom or Abiding Mom

2011-10-27T08:25:00.002-04:00

I’m not a Supermom! I cannot do it all and when I try to do it all, I fail, get stressed and make a big mess of things!

But, I am learning to be an Abiding Mom. A mom who knows limitations, but also where true strength, grace and hope comes from.

Here is a free printable to remind us to be Abiding Moms!

Old Fashioned, Thrifty Garden Tricks

2011-10-25T09:45:00.000-04:00

Although I'm nowhere near an expert gardener, it is fun to experiment and gain knowledge in this area. However, since there is much to learn, I'm hesitant to read about and then go out to purchase items (usually expensive) which are supposed to be 'vital' to enhance my plants, flowers and garden! Our local newspaper shared some tips recently on how to use natural, old fashioned techniques to enhance growing plants.

Tea Bags: Working tea bags into soil of roses adds a touch of acidity, which roses love.

Epson Salts: Our area is low on magnesuim and sprinkling some Epsom Salts around flowers and shrubs will add vigor to them.

Coffee Grounds: Work coffee grounds into the soil of plants adds nitrogen to the soil. Plants will bloom bigger and better than ever!

Dish Soap: If aphids are a pest in your garden, spray a solution of dish soap, water and vegetable oil on the plants. This is a natural remedy for garden pests.

I'm already incorporating a few of these ideas and love the fact that it costs me nothing and gives some of these items a 'second use'!

What's Your Dinner Talk???

2011-10-23T13:22:00.000-04:00

Family dinners have always been a priority at our home. When our boys were young, most nights found us eating a meal together around the table. As the boys grew and we began to juggle school, jobs and daddy's shift work hours, and now dinner around the table is not as frequent. Often we eat in shifts and sometimes (gasp) in front of the TV.

Eating together is important and worth the effort to pull together. Conversation is important also. In our early years, I remember 'teaching manners' at the table which mainly consisted in me correcting and analyzing their behavior. I have since learned, the dinner table is NOT the place for correction!! It is to be a pleasant time, hopefully of sharing together.

Sometimes, teenage boys need a little help in sharing! Their minds are on boy things - trucks, friends, girls etc. Conversation can sometimes be stilted and often takes great effort.

HOW DOES SHE is a web site I recently found and is filled with creative ideas in many different categories. You will find something you can use each time you visit! I recently came across a series offered "Family Dinner Questions" which offer conversation starters for the family meal. I'm planning to print these out and keep them close to the table to add some spice, flavor and conversation to our mealtimes! Will you join me this week in livening up things around the dinner table?

Calling Him Out

2011-10-19T19:54:00.000-04:00

In the movie Courageous, the main theme is the important roles that fathers play in the home and lives of their children. One of the main quotes was the desire of a father to "Call out the man in my son". This was a powerful reminder that the power of life and death is in the tongue or in the words we use. Our words can be used as a blessing or can cause great harm. Words are powerful!

Now "calling out the man in my son" is truly a father's role. No one can fill the gap of a father's role in a son's life. But as mothers, our words and tone hold great importance also. A mother's voice has the power to settle jangled nerves and maybe even reach through the fog of a coma to bring a brain-injured patient back to consciousness, according to a pair of new experiments. Mom's voice is surely special.

I clearly remember over 20 years ago when I had my first child. I came home from the hospital on a weekend. My mother lived nearby, but worked double shifts on weekends. She would call me each day after each shift. Although I was fine all day and was a grown woman, just hearing her voice made my cry. Hormonal, I know, but it was simply the power of her voice that set off such deep emotions.

Our words and tone are so important. What is the normal tone of voice in our daily life? Is it soft, calm and reassuring, or is it sharp, irritated and negative? Sometimes when I am in the grocery store with no children, I'll hear a frustrated mother sounding off to her children and ask myself "do I sound like that?" We have probably all been in those shoes and YES, did sound like that!

This week, I'm making it a point to listen to myself, to my tone. My voice will be remembered for many years to come, I want to make it a good memory and a source of pleasure and comfort forever.

Lean, Mean and Green!!

2011-10-19T12:00:00.002-04:00

My youngest son fits the true model of the lastborn (baby) of the family! He is coddled, spoiled and loves his mama!

But, one day he will grow into a man and will need some tough characteristics. This summer he expressed an interest in playing football. Knowing this would be good to help develop and mature him, we signed him up. Not only is he the lastborn, but he is a bit small – only 60 lbs! But both he and Mom are loving this experience!

There he is…on bottom recovering a fumble!

Preparing for kick off!

It’s turning out to be a great season!

Thinking About Canning?

2011-10-18T15:36:00.000-04:00

This spring, I tried my hand at home canning. Although it was hard work, it was well worth the effort. The garden is long gone, but I have shelves of pickles, relish, green beans, pear butter, jellies and others.

Since the garden produce comes in fast and furious, the time to research is NOW! One of my favorite places for frugal tips, cooking inspiration and home keeping ideas is Hillbilly Housewife.

She is offering a free resource Canning 101. This is a short report going over the basics of canning and has some great information for those considering giving canning a try. If you like it, she has many other resources to help!

Canning can be fun, done quickly and efficiently and is a great blessing to the family and way to extend homemade kindness. Take advantage of this freebie to learn more!

Marriage Monday - Miscarriages

2011-10-17T10:32:00.001-04:00

Marriage is one of the favorite things of mine to write about. This area is where the Lord has brought me from being raised in a home with a turbulent marriage to perfectly matching me with a husband that through the years, I continue to be amazed at God's grace in blessing of him. Marriage has stretched me, challenged me and allowed me to see God's faithfulness on a daily basis.

Marriage Monday offers topics for marriage that challenge hearts and minds and cause to search deeply within the heart. This week's topic is Infertility, Miscarriage or Adoption and the effect that it has on a marriage. Our marriage has been blessed with three sons, but there was also the struggle of three miscarriages. These were difficult times to go through, but, with God's faithfulness, and grace, He mended our hearts and strengthened our marriage through this.

It is a known fact that men and women grieve differently. A woman feels the pain of a miscarriage differently than a man. However soon after conception, a miscarriage occurs, a mother has bonded with this baby which was a part of her. Her heart, emotions and a piece of her own self feel the loss and pain. However supportive the husband may be, he can never fully understand the depth of her pain.

Men are created for action and purpose and in a crisis situation, they long to 'fix it' or make something happen to help the situation. Infertility or miscarriage are issues there is often nothing to do but depend on God. Women may simply want to talk about their loss and pain, but this often challenges men, since they are uncomfortable opening up to such pain without an avenue of action. By understanding these differences, the healing process can go smoother. Often the woman is simply consumed by the event, it is all she thinks about and may appear to be in a fog. She is emotionally spent, but on top of that, may have some physical issues and some hormonal fluctuation. There needs to be a few days for the woman to simply grieve . To talk, to cry and just rest. When she is ready, the turning point of 'doing the next thing' can be a the first step in healing. However small 'the next thing' may be, moving forward slowly changes the pace of sorrow to a return to normal. Although never forgotten, the pain of the loss lessens as the focus shifts off the pain and onto other blessings. A continual moving forward in God's grace and strength is restoring. Although the loss is never forgotten and will forever be a part of us, healing and comfort can be found which enable us to move forward.

The path to healing is step by step and holding God's hand will bring healing to our pain and heart. His grace is abundant and our greatest comfort comes from Him alone. As that comfort continues to strengthen the heart, the opportunity to minister to another will come. It is then that we can look back at God's faithfulness and see how His hand was upon our life.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. II Corinthians 1:3-4

Friday Funnies - What's In Your Heart?

2011-10-14T08:20:00.000-04:00

What's beating in your heart? I loved the end of this!! Have a great weekend.

Talking Ugly...

2011-10-13T11:21:00.000-04:00

I recently learned a lesson about selfishness! A hard lesson, that involves some deep training:

“…if we don’t think before we respond, and if we don’t train ourselves to be like Christ, then we won’t be like Him and we won’t respond like Him. It doesn’t come naturally, this being like Jesus. It takes training, discipline and perseverance.”

I'm talking about it over At the Well.

Baked Potato Overload?

2011-10-12T11:11:00.003-04:00

There is this little food trap I fall into quite often. At our local produce stand, they sell beautiful, big, perfect potatoes which make fantastic baked potatoes. Every time, I try to buy just enough, but they are so big, there is always leftovers. Since I can't seem to buy the right amount and have some that need to be used up, I've found a few things to do with them.

Make Potato Salad:

This used to intimidate me, making potato salad, but it is one of those recipes you can add this and that and measure to taste. Begin with mixing mayonnaise, ground mustard, a dash of vinegar, selected spices - parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper etc., add hard boiled eggs, pickled relish, some cooked bacon, onions and green peppers - all of those or only some of them! Mix well and add chopped cooked potatoes, stir until well coated.

Baked Potato Soup & Skins:

Make loaded potato skins and baked potato soup.

Cut 4 large baked potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh.

Melt 2/3 cup butter in a saucepan.

Stir in 2/3 cup flour and cook 1 minute.

Add 6 cups milk and cook over medium, stirring constantly until bubbly

Stir in potato,

2 tablespoons diced green onions

1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese.

Cook until heated through, and then stir in 1 cup sour cream. Garnish with crumbled bacon, diced green onions and cheddar cheese.

Meanwhile, brush the potato skins inside and out with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Fill with crumbled, crisp bacon, diced green onions and cheddar cheese. Bake at 450 F for 10 to 15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh sour cream and serve.

Roasted Garlic Rosemary Potatoes

Heat oven to 425 F.

Cut potatoes into 1-inch cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.

Slice 5 cloves of garlic and add to potatoes.

Chop 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary and add to the potatoes.

Drizzle generously with olive oil and season with salt and fresh cracked pepper.

Toss to coat all of the potatoes.

Pour the potatoes into a lightly oiled baking dish and roast uncovered about 30 minutes, until the potatoes are golden brown.

For more ideas see: E How Food, and use up those leftovers!!

What To Do WIth Baked Potatoes

2011-10-12T10:54:00.006-04:00

There is this potato trap I fall into quite often. At our local produce stand, they sell beautiful, big, perfect potatoes which make fantastic baked potatoes. Every time, I try to buy just enough, but they are so big, there is always leftovers. Since I can't seem to buy the right amount and have some that need to be used up, I've found a few things to do with them.

Make Potato Salad:
This used to intimidate me, making potato salad, but it is one of those recipes you can add this and that and measure to taste. Begin with mixing mayonnaise, ground mustard, a dash of vinegar, selected spices - parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper etc., add hard boiled eggs, pickled relish, some cooked bacon, onions and green peppers - all of those or only some of them! Mix well and add chopped cooked potatoes, stir until well coated.

Baked Potato Soup & Skins:

Make loaded potato skins and baked potato soup.

Cut 4 large baked potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh.

Melt 2/3 cup butter in a saucepan.

Stir in 2/3 cup flour and cook 1 minute.

Add 6 cups milk and cook over medium, stirring constantly until bubbly

. Stir in potato,

2 tablespoons diced green onions

1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese.

Cook until heated through, and then stir in 1 cup sour cream. Garnish with crumbled bacon, diced green onions and cheddar cheese.

Roasted Garlic Rosemary Potatoes

Heat oven to 425 F.

Cut potatoes into 1-inch cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.

Slice 5 cloves of garlic and add to potatoes.

Chop 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary and add to the potatoes.

Drizzle generously with olive oil and season with salt and fresh cracked pepper.

Toss to coat all of the potatoes.

Pour the potatoes into a lightly oiled baking dish and roast uncovered about 30 minutes, until the potatoes are golden brown.

For more ideas see: E How Food, and use up those leftovers!!

Making Home the Norm

2011-10-09T20:40:00.000-04:00

It's been said "what you are at home...is what you are." Those are true words, home is where we can lay back and be ourselves. That encompasses a wide variety, some good, some not so good and every now and again, some downright ugly!

But as women, wives and mothers, we have the unique responsibility and power to influence our home. What our family sees day in and day out is what they consider normal. Our words, attitudes, actions, routines are not only being watched, but are being imitated and ingrained in hearts and will be passed along one day as new families spring forth from us.

What if we would rise to the challenge to be deliberate in our 'normal'? In many areas, the values of a Christian are in direct conflict of the ways of the world. A few comparisons include:

Speech
Clothing
Values
Music
Entertainment

If we strive to display Christ likeness in our home, our children take that to heart. In the above areas, by us making deliberate choices to reflect holiness and godliness, a difference will be noted from our home and the ways of the world. As we make our homes a place to rejoice in God's blessings in the good times, our children learn to praise God from whom all blessings flow. Faith is seen and learned in the midst of struggles and hard times as the watch where we go for our help.

The pull of the world and the temptations of sin are very real dangers to our kids. Ultimately, they will make their own choices and decisions and they may not always be what we would have chosen for them. But the influence of 'normal' will always stay with them.

Let's strive to make our home a holy normal!

Do You Have a Successful Son?

2011-10-05T21:54:00.000-04:00

Is your son successful? Most every mother would answer a resounding YES to a question like that! But, who defines success? What does success look like? What does it take to be successful?

My oldest son is now 20 years old. When he was young and in school, he was surrounded by a group of diverse boys he went to class with, was in clubs with and played sports with. These were a great group of boys all with different backgrounds and circumstances. I watched through the years some of these boys develop great intelligence and educational vision and purpose, some become great ball players and others grow some great personality and integrity. Now that these boys are graduated, they are just as diverse. Some attend college and seem to be well on their way to success, some still live in our small town and are entering adutlhood and the job force.

But the measure of success is not always as it appears. Looking at the boy who never made less than an "A" and has embraced numerous successful endeavors would surely be seen as a success. But I saw another success story recently.

Another 20 year old boy who stayed in our small town, got a job and has overcome some difficult circumstances was at my youngest son's football game. His younger brother was playing on the same team. The young brother was on the field playing and got slightly injured. Nothing serious, but he as sitting on the bench, catching his breath. The older brother walked on the field, up to the bench, sat down and put his arm around his little brother to make sure he was okay. Intelligence and education make for success, but may we never forget about the characteristics of kindness, compassion and thoughtfulness.

Success is not defined by eduction, career, finances, friends or possessions. A successful son can be found described in Psalms 1:

Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.

That's the success I'm looking for! A son with wisdom and integrity, perseverance and a love for the Lord. Although on my own, I cannot make success happen, but our Lord can. A mother's prayers are a powerful part of a son's success. Moms, may we never cease to pray for our sons, believing for them to become a success - in God's eyes and in God's ways!

Making Your Home A Haven of Peace

2011-10-04T20:06:00.001-04:00

FALL IS HERE!!! Although the calendar has said fall for a few weeks, the weather has been hot and humid here in the deep south!! But this weekend, the first taste of fall weather arrived! Also this time of year brings the Making Your Home A Haven Challenge!

Our homes were designed to a haven for our family. A place where we come to after the stresses of the day zap our energy and constantly pull our peace from us. A place to unwind, relax, be renewed and recharged to do it all over again!! Home calls to us with memories of love, welcome and family. Today's modern families may not actually 'be home' very often with the hectic schedules of work, activities, church etc. This challenge encourages us for that time that we are home, to make deliberate, intentional efforts to make our home a true haven.

This week's challenge is to "Go buy an extra large candle and light a candle everyday in your home. Each time the candle catches your eye, say a prayer for peace in your home."

I have bought a tart warmer with a fall scented tart from Yankee Candle. I keep it lit near the rocking chair that I sit in. It fills the room with scent and flickers gentle light. This is a subtle way to add some atmosphere to the home.

This is also an easy reminder to pray for peace in our home. With three sons, peace does not come easily! Bickering, wrestling, battling for the tv remote to watch either rough and tumble sports or an action packed adventure movie is what boys are all about! But amidst the chaos in our daily life, my prayer is for them to have peace in their heart. Peace to guide them in their decisions, in their relationships, through the trials and crises of life, to find true peace from the Lord. With our two older boys being teenagers, peace equals boredom to them. But my prayer is as they grow in wisdom and maturity to remember their years at home with good memories and an understanding of the joys of a peaceful place to abide.

My husband has grasped the importance of and needs to come home to a haven of peace after his stressful work days. This little candle reminder guides me and challenges me to keep flickers of peace alive at all times! It inspires me to gentle distribute peace through my words and actions. To keep a spirit of peace through cheerful attitudes and attempt to keep an orderly home and keep undue distractions from him which hinder his peace.

To give out peace, we must first receive peace - lasting, sure, true peace. True peace comes only from our Lord and we build that peace in our lives through prayer and reading His Word. Some of my favorite Scriptures about peace (which I love to sit in my rocking chair and read aloud) include:

Mark the blameless man, and observe the upright; For the future of that man is peace. Psalms 37:37
But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. Psalms 37:11
But let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life And peace they will add to you. Proverbs 3:1
Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. Romans 14:19
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
...and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

I hope you will join this week in delighting in making your home a haven and lighting a candle reminder to bring peace to your home and family.

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Healing Chicken Soup

2011-10-04T10:13:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, my dear husband came home with a cold. Since that time of year is approaching, it is bound to happen. Tonight's dinner will be chicken soup, a salad and homemade bread. Chicken soup always seems to make you feel better. I did a little research on soup and found some interesting facts:

Chicken soup is a favourite healing soup all over the world. It has often been called Jewish penicillin and scientists have spent time and money examining the actions of chicken soup on colds and flu. It’s no surprise that they’ve found evidence of the way chicken soup combats the symptoms of a cold.

Soup has anti-inflammatory properties that helped sore throats and helped stop the movement of neutrophils (white blood cells that encourage the flow of mucus that accumulates in the lungs and nose).

steam is a real benefit. Sipping the hot soup and breathing in the steam helps clear up congestion. This can also be said for many hot soups.

Spices that are often added to chicken soup, such as garlic and pepper (all ancient treatments for respiratory diseases), work the same way as modern cough medicines, thinning mucus and making breathing easier.

chicken soup contains drug-like agents similar to those in modern cold medicines. For example, an amino acid released from chicken during cooking chemically resembles the drug acetylcysteine, prescribed for bronchitis and other respiratory problems.

Chicken Soup puts needed fluids back into the body.

Here is a recipe for 'healing chicken soup' that can be used for several days.

Stew your chicken first:

Place a 3 to 4 lb. chicken in a 5-6 qt. pan and cover with water. Add 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Cook for 1/2 hour over medium heat until chicken is done and falls off the bone. Remove bones and chicken from the pot to cool. Keep the broth in the pot and set to simmer.

Add to simmering broth:
2 large onion diced
3 celery ribs diced (seeds are good too)
3 carrots diced
1/2 stick of butter
3 cloves of chopped garlic
juice of 1/2 a lemon
salt & and pepper
For richer flavor, add 3 or 4 chicken bouillon cubes or 1 cup chicken stock.

Cut chicken up into large chunks. Replace chicken back into simmering broth. Add 1 cup of large diced potatoes Cover with water. Cook for another 30 minutes on medium heat.

Last 10 minutes of cooking: Add Important Healing Herbs
Add 1 bunch of chopped parsley to soup
.If you have thyme, add 1/2 teaspoon.
If you have sage, add 1/2 teaspoon.
If you have basil, add 1/2 teaspoon.
pinch of poultry seasoning
Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper!!
Cook for 10 more minutes

There are a few additions to make to this soup to add variety for a couple days. Adding noodles and broth the second day and cream of celery soup the third day will keep flavor alive and new.

Read Healing Chicken Noodle Soup for more information on the healing properties and detailed recipes.

Keeping the Old Ways Alive

2011-10-02T21:20:00.008-04:00

When reminiscing about how the roles of woman have changed through the years, there has been some remarkable progress to help how women fulfill their duties of wife, mother and keeper of the home. Appliances, creative and in genius household helps and every imaginable tool are a few of the modern conveniences. But, although the techniques have changed some, the tasks haven't. With all of the improvements in our day and time, we are busier than ever and rush frantically from here to there. Although it may not be feasible for many women to stay home and keep house all day, there are a few ways to bring some of the older, meaningful ways of old into the home and keep some traditions alive.

A few things I enjoy doing are cooking from scratch when possible, hanging out clothes on the clothesline, baking bread (using a bread maker!) and even wearing aprons.

A friend passed along a cute email about aprons and their history. Here is a trip down memory lane:

I don't think our kids know what an apron is. The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath because she only had a few and because it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and aprons required less material. But along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.

It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.

From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.

When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids.

And when the weather was cold, Grandma wrapped it around her arms.

Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove.

Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron. From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls.

In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.

When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.

When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men folk knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.

It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes.

REMEMBER:
Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw.

They would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron.
I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron - but love...

Now, if you've got a little apron fever, you will love Susannah's Kitchen and the creative way to bring this past tradition alive in a fun way for today's times!

Saying Just Enough

2011-09-26T10:07:00.000-04:00

In my early years of parenting, I read some advice that I put into practice. It went along the lines of when young children were being disciplined for disobedience that the children must understand what they did wrong and a thorough discussion must be given for them to understand what they did wrong and to avoid the same mistakes in the future.

I found out that this one area was one I could do well!! Talk and explain so they could understand what they did wrong?? Yep! I nailed it! And I continued this tradition for many years. Through toddlers, pre-school, school age we talked things over. I found pre-teens and teenagers seemed to need a little more attention and the issues got a bit more complicated, so I explained in detail....even more! And to make sure they understood, it would be sit down, look eye to eye and they were expected to graciously receive my wisdom. Now, this technique worked well for smaller children, but quickly loses steam as age increases.

As my boys got older, when these talk times came, you could see misery on their face. It was so important to me to pass along the right thing to do, so I often ignored their pleas and glazed over expressions while I plowed ahead in my speech. Although I am no expert on teenagers, having been through this stage for a few years now, I have learned (finally) that this approach does NOT work! In fact, one of the common complaints and ineffective communication tactics is forced lecturing. As this age progresses, they usually know right from wrong and their choices come from what is inside their heart, not from mama's lectures. It becomes more effective to talk with them instead of talking at them. So....if they are going to listen, words must be quick and to the point. I'm learning to "Say Just Enough".

Saying just enough means no fluff or emotional words, it means addressing the issue directly. Saying just enough can bring conviction, but must also bring hope and encouragement. It means that be using time and energy to find fault and beat them over the head with it (as I did) turns their heart away. They may endure hearing the talk, but it doesn't impact the heart if done in a nagging manner. Saying just enough can address the wrong, but show unconditional love while drawing expectations higher for next time. Simple power packed words - strong words that convey love, discipline and encouragement.

I"m still working on this area and my boys will remind me when I tend to get long winded - we know, you've gone over this before! Nagging doesn't get very far!

A few resources that I found helpful to navigate through these waters are:

Non-verbal Communication - Keep all communication skills sharp!

Five Days To Better Communication With Your Teen - a crash course to communicate better.

How does this fit into Marriage Monday? Raising children is a tough job! Children need the influence of both parents. This brings a balance of mom's nurturing and caring (which comes naturally) and dad's strong leadership and guidance. As mom and dad dedicate time and effort to their marriage, children see first hand how issues, situations and disagreements are handled. We are modeling a marriage for generations to come. Marriage must be the first priority as we raise our children. We were wives first, then mothers. When the time with our children at home is finished, we will still be a wife. Wise women keep investing in the marriage through the challenges of these years. It may be a lot of hard work with busy seasons of life, but the role of wife and mother are high callings of a woman to be embraced with God's grace to equip and sustain us. May we dedicate each day to be the best we can be. Our influence is limitless!

Give A Way Winner

2011-09-24T20:37:00.002-04:00

Congratultions to Miss Debbie for winning the brownie pack! Thanks to all who entered!

PineCone Research Openings

2011-09-22T11:31:00.000-04:00

PineCone Research is a paid survey opportunity that now has openngs for new applicants. Here is a ltitle bit of information about them:" PineCone Research is at the forefront of "online research", today's sophisticated and leading-edge approach to gathering consumer opinions. Consumer input is vital to the development of new and improved products.

Traditional survey methods, although effective, can be inconvenient and time consuming. Online research helps solve this dilemma. With online research, you can answer surveys from the comfort and convenience of your own PC and at a time that is convenient for you."

Here is a some information about how it works from the PineCone website:

We will notify you by email of upcoming product surveys.

•You will be provided with a password which will enable you to access the survey at a designated website.

•We will pay for completed product evaluation surveys.

•Occasionally we may ship you a product to test.

•Project evaluation surveys average 15 to 20 minutes to complete.

•Occasionally we may ask other members of your household to complete a questionnaire if the product is more appropriate for someone in your household other than yourself.

•From time to time we may send you a few questions regarding your household. These questions assist us in sending appropriate product surveys to you. For example, we may need households who are pet owners or households who do not have pets. Your voluntary participation in these questionnaires is extremely important.

•Remember... you complete all product surveys from the comfort and convenience of your PC.

I have been a part of PineCone Research for a few years now and have loved it! You get paid for every survey you complete and I have received several full size sample products to evaluate. This is a quality company and they only have openings every so often. If you were ever curious about surveys and letting your opinions be known....here's your chance!

Texture Tuesday

2011-09-20T11:59:00.001-04:00

Today’s Texture Tuesday’s theme is free choice! My first thoughts gravitated to a fall mountain picture from last year’s vacation or some kind of floral shot. But creativity thinks beyond what is comfortable!!

So today’s picture is based on what is going on in our home – FOOTBALL! With our youngest son playing little league football and our older sons spending every evening (it seems!) in front of the tv watching the game, football seems to rule at our home right now!

Textures added were: November, Magic Scratches and Thursday.

Is There A Method To This Madness???

2011-09-18T20:24:00.000-04:00

Are you an organizer? Does everything have it's place in your home? This is one of my aspirations and I have been relentless in finding a technique that works for me!! Probable every woman would answer that order is important in the home, but how do we find order out of chaos?

In my quest for order, I have tried everything from a book that schedules every hour of the day to home management binders, to meal planners, tons of printables for notes and to dos. Still, perfect order eludes me.

Do you know about "Principle and Methods"? A principle is "a basic truth, general law or doctrine used as a basis of reasoning or a guide to actions and behavior". A method is "a procedure or way of doing something". Among the Christian community, especially women, we share many principles, but the methods will vary widely. God's Word instructs us to be the keeper of our homes, which is a principle we hold, but there are innumerable methods in which to do this!

I love to browse organization websites to get ideas. Then, if I am unable to make this method work for me, get frustrated. Each of us is individually created with our own set of gifts, abilities and talents. Some of us love and excel at cooking, other sewing or creating, others entertaining, others make their homes a place of fun! These are all areas needed to make a home, but if we build on anothers gift, we will fall short if that is not our area of talent.

What is the best way to find order in our homes? It is what will work for us and with us. What are your strong points? Use them to bless your family and others! What areas bring joy and can be done as an extension of your natural ability is most likely your gift or talent. If it stresses you out and causes more irrigation than accomplishment, it may not be the gifted area.

Sometimes it helps to take a good look at where we are in our homes, what we want to accomplish, take a deep breath and pray! God can bring help, hope and a beauty to our homes as we follow His leading and use His gifts to our home and family.

Brownie Prize Pack Give A Way!!

2011-09-16T22:19:00.001-04:00

Brownies are an all time favorite at our home! With just a few ingredients stirred up in a bowl, baked in the oven, a special treat of chocolate, ooey, gooey, good is ready! I have used Betty Crocker brownie mixes for years with great success. The quick prepared mix works perfect for a special treat anytime.

Recently, a new brownie flavor came out - Milk Chocolate mix. Can it get any better than that? On a regular night, I baked these up and created a special time for my family by something so simple! No special occasion, just to celebrate how special my family is to me!

Now, it's your chance! Would you like to win a free prize package which features a full size box of Betty Crocker Milk Chocolate Brownies, Betty Crocker red apron, brownie baking pan with cover and a mixing spoon? All you have to do to enter is leave a comment and tell my about your favorite brownie!

For more Betty Crocker goodness, you can visit the website:
Betty Crocker
Follow on Facebook
Follow on Twitter

Winner of the prize pack will be drawn randomly on September 24!

"Disclosure: The product, information and prize pack have been provided by Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark."

Constitution Day

2011-09-16T21:43:00.000-04:00

On September 17, 1787, the delegates to the Constitutional Convention met for the last time to sign the document they had created. Constitution Day is a time for us to continue their legacy through our citizenship.

I found a great site to share as we celebrate U.S. Constitution Day 2011, the 224th anniversary of our nation's founding document.

First, here are some fascinating facts about the Constitution: Did you know?

· The U.S. Constitution has 4,400 words. It is the oldest and shortest written Constitution of any major government in the world.

· Of the spelling errors in the Constitution, “Pensylvania” above the signers’ names is probably the most glaring.

· Thomas Jefferson did not sign the Constitution. He was in France during the Convention, where he served as the U.S. minister. John Adams was serving as the U.S. minister to Great Britain during the Constitutional Convention and did not attend either.

· The Constitution was “penned” by Jacob Shallus, A Pennsylvania General Assembly clerk, for $30 ($726 today).

· The Constitution does not set forth requirements for the right to vote. As a result, at the outset of the Union, only male property-owners could vote. African Americans were not considered citizens, and women were excluded from the electoral process. Native Americans were not given the right to vote until 1924.

· James Madison, “the father of the Constitution,” was the first to arrive in Philadelphia for the Constitutional Convention. He arrived in February, three months before the convention began, bearing the blueprint for the new Constitution.

· The oldest person to sign the Constitution was Benjamin Franklin (81). The youngest was Jonathan Dayton of New Jersey (26).

· When the Constitution was signed, the United States’ population was 4 million. It is now more than 309 million. Philadelphia was the nation’s largest city, with 40,000 inhabitants.

· George Washington and James Madison were the only presidents who signed the Constitution.

· The word “democracy” does not appear once in the Constitution.

· The Constitution contains 4,543 words, including the signatures and has four sheets, 28-3/4 inches by 23-5/8 inches each. It contains 7,591 words including the 27 amendments.

· As evidence of its continued flexibility, the Constitution has only been changed seventeen times since 1791!

· Of the fifty-five delegates who attended the convention 34 were lawyers, 8 had signed the Declaration of Independence, and almost half were Revolutionary War veterans. The remaining members were planters, educators, ministers, physicians, financiers, judges and merchants. About a quarter of them were large land owners and all of them held some type of public office (39 were former Congressmen and 8 were present or past governors).

· The only other language used in various parts of the Constitution is Latin.

· Four of the signers of the Constitution were born in Ireland.

Constitution Facts is a great source for information and fun!

There is also a place to test your Constitutional knowledge with this quiz!
May we always remember the blessings of living in a free country and pray diligently for the United States. God bless America.

Courage Prayers For Our Sons

2011-09-15T11:07:00.000-04:00

It has been said that sons hold your hand for a short time, but will hold your heart forever. As a mom to three sons, this surely rings true!

For years I have prayed for my sons. The tools of prayer calendars, biblical prayers, qualities to pray for children and others found a place in a notebook and are refereed to often. Of course the greatest 'mommy prayer' is for their safety and protection. Any mom will understand that one!

This year, another prayer need for sons has been brought to light in my heart, but it is not so pleasant. The need for COURAGE. All boys and men need courage. But courage is not taught in words, but gained through action - tough action that only that little boy can do. Mom can't hold his hand and walk him through it, but she must sit on the sidelines as courage develops in the heart and mind and a battle is fought and conquered - on his own. Courage grows as fears are faced and overcome. This is not an easy characteristic to build, but as that little boy grows, courage is vital.

"Good timber does not grow with ease. The stronger the wind the stronger the trees". - Williard Marriott

This spring our youngest son who is 10 played baseball. On an opposing team there was a pitcher who threw an extremely fast ball. He was so fast, the first time the teams played, only a handful of our guys were able to hit the balls he pitched. My son was nervous, but got up there and swung the bat and actually hit it! The next time the teams played, fear paralyzed my son. He got up to bat, dissolved in tears and no words of encouragement would help him or get him to face the pitch. The last time they played, it was the championship little league game. My son had determined in his heart that he would get up to bat. He did, he hit the ball and he grew some courage in his heart from making his mind up to face this fear and conquer it.

Our other sons are nearly grown and within the next year or so, will be out on their own. As much as that terrifies me and saddens me to have them leave, they must be equipped to face life on their own. Courage is a must. Coddling, being sentimental will feed my feelings, but will do nothing to equip them as they face the challenges and trials of life. Courage and being strong in spirit will sustain them as they face decisions on their own (without asking mom!), as they fight temptations and journey down the paths set before them.

These prayers, although perhaps hard right now, will yield a lifetime of benefits and a lasting legacy. Some prayers for our sons may include for them:

To 'be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might'.
To be courageous in all situations ("I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me").
To be strong in heart. Never compromising, but always be in prayer and receive guidance from the Lord.
To seek wisdom and understanding from the Lord.
To be diligent, to ponder their paths and not be led astray.
To be overcomers through faith and God's Word.
To be responsible for their own actions, to accept and grow from instruction.
To have deep spiritual roots. By keeping God's Word in their heart, may they follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in all circumstances.
To depart from evil and do good.

Those were just a few things I pray for my sons. There is a powerful resource 21 Days of Prayer For Sons, which I am planning to purchase. The ebook Warrior Prayers sounds like a fantastic tool as we pray for strength and courage for our sons.

Texture Tuesday–Doing

2011-09-13T09:23:00.000-04:00

Today’s Texture Tuesday’s theme is “Do”. That seemed to be a little hard to come up with for me. Then, over the weekend, I found these two cuties “doing" nothing but enjoying themselves and loved the reminder that sometimes we just need to just be instead of do, or just do while being still and enjoying life!

Then, since I couldn't make up my mind which picture I liked, I edited them both the same way!

Both photos were edited in Sepia Tone and the textures added were “Autumn Burst”, “Serious Magic” and “Warm Sun” were used.

Marriage Monday - It's Not Just Talk

2011-09-11T21:20:00.001-04:00

Today's Marriage Monday's topic is "Communication". A pretty hot topic for marriage huh? We all know men and women communicate differently and that it brings clarity and better understanding if we study these differences. Normally, women are known to be 'talkers'. They love to share emotion, thoughts, desires and long for connection. Men seem to like to talk less and are perfectly satisfied to receive only the point of the matter - the cold facts!

Here are a five quick differences:

1. Women’s brains are always “on.” There is more neural activity in the female brain at any given time than in the male brain.

2. Men just want the facts. Men usually ask fewer questions to stimulate conversation in their work relationships and often end conversations more abruptly than women.

3. Women focus on friendship first. Women tend to build relationships when they sell. They don’t tend to go into a transaction focused on the final outcome but wanting to build rapport and learn more about others first.

4. Men take it one task at a time. Men like to focus on one task at a time, whereas women’s brains are more geared to multitask.

5. Women remember the little details. Females can generally remember more physical and relational details than men.

But these differences are pretty general. In our own marriages, our mate has his own style of communication. Communications embraces more that 'talking'. It encompasses listening, hearing and understanding what is meant, sometimes looking beyond the words to the feeling of the heart (purely a woman's point of view!!). At my home, I've learned that a comment about something as simple as a chore (i.e. a cobweb in the corner) which means very little to me, means much more to my husband if he mentions it. It means that it is really bothering him. Since he overlooks a lot in that area, when it is mentioned, I take action!

How we individually look at and interpret things is another important aspect of communication. My mind works in black and white. It is what it is, if someone says something, I picture it in my mind and imagine myself there. My husband explores deeply and thoughtfully over many things and verbalizes them. Through the years, a major purchase or decision would be mentioned - perhaps a new car. My mind was picturing the mentioned car in the driveway with me in the driver's seat. My husband was simply thinking outloud about this car and analyzing the pros and cons...gas mileage, engine life etc! This used to drive me crazy since major decisions would have my mind in and out of a dozen situations! But I've learned to appreciate the value of not making rash decisions and allowing him to verbalize his thoughts and the freedom to think, ponder and talk things out.

Communication is a vital aspect in marriage. It can bring joy and great blessing, or it can make many conversations miserable as we try to decipher what was said and how it was meant. Good communication takes practice, kindness, self control and unselfish time! But as we learn to better communicate with our mate, our hearts are joined closer together.

The greatest tool in communication is prayer. As we pray for our husbands and our selves, God's love flows from heart to heart and our minds are ready to extend His grace and love. There is no way to misread that!! Will you join me this week in making greater communication a priority? To pray more, listen more and talk less? To listen deeply and prayerfully meet the needs that can be uncovered with God's wisdom and guidance. It will be a step to make the home and husband have a great week!!

Right Here In Our Yard

2011-09-09T09:54:00.000-04:00

One day last week, we heard the noise of an airplane circling around and around. Now, in the country, this is a very unusual sound and my first instinct was to hide under the bed! But curiosity got the best of us and we peeked out the window to see a crop duster plane. These are small planes that ‘dust’ or spray fertilizer on fields of crops. The plane was dusting a field nearby and turning around right over our heads! Of course we grabbed our camera:

This interested my son so much, he took a video!! Here is a crop dusting demonstration:

What Shiny New Pots Can Do For Your Marriage...

2011-09-08T10:09:00.000-04:00

I'm over At the Well today sharing about a lesson I learned from a new set of pots! Hint...old brides are never too old for a shot of freshness in the marriage!! Come read about it HERE!

Texture Tuesday

2011-09-06T08:42:00.000-04:00

This week’s challenge picture for Texture Tuesday came from a special moment at home recently. My 10 year old son came to get me with one of those “come look” pleas. Not really wanting to stop what I was doing, told him no, but after he insisted, I went and he had found this butterfly gathering nectar from a flower head just like we had read about in the science book and he had wanted to show me!

For the texture challenge I used Crackerjack along with Just Cause and Pourvous. Capturing a beautiful moment and then working to enhance it with texture! This made my week!

September Is Here!!!!

2011-09-01T10:01:00.000-04:00

Today is September 1!! Every year when this date rolls around, it brings a spark of joy to my heart. I just love September! Autumn is my favorite time of the year and in the deep south where August temperatures are brutal, September holds the promise that this intense heat will soon give way to more manageable weather. It is almost in sight when we can spend evenings in the yard in the cool of the evening, catching balls with the boys, doing yard work which is totally abandoned during the summer months, sitting on the swing reflecting on the blessings of daily life or taking an evening walk while enjoying spectacular sunsets.

To celebrate September, today I searched for some desktop wallpapers for September. Here are some cute ones I found:

Revive Our Hearts - Beautiful wallpaper to delight the eyes and a Scripture to see every day to lift up the heart.

Leelou Blogs offers an adorable computer desktop calendar for September. If you are creative,you can even add a favorite photo.

One more of my favorite places to find monthly desktop wallpaper is Classy Wallpapers. I usually visit this site the first of each month to see what they offer.

Hope that your September gets off to a great start!

Unexpected Messes

2011-08-31T11:28:00.002-04:00

On a recent lazy Saturday morning, while leisurely drinking my coffee and reveling in the fact that I had a whole day at home with nowhere to go and lots of time to catch up around the house, I spotted this:

On my back porch the cat had knocked over my plant. Not a big deal, but the back porch is almost the only place where my plants thrive! It brings such joy to look at my flourishing plants, but now one was in a mess. This was an unexpected mess. I hadn't planned for it, didn't want to deal with it, but the only solution is to clean it up. No use in being annoyed or irritated, but to move forward to make it right.

Unexpected messes. I thought about in life how each of us faces unexpected messes. When things seem to be going along great, something will pop up to disrupt and distract us. They may be minor messes or major messes, but most messes cannot be planned or fit in nicely with our schedules, they just come.

. The only predictable thing about them is that they will come. God's Word tells us we will have troubles..." In the world you willhave tribulation;". But our hope is that as we face our messes and move to deal with them, we can trust and lean on the Lord..."but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Messes in our lives usually don't go away by themselves, but they must be dealt with. Thinking over and perhaps agonizing over them wtih dread will do nothing but put defeat in our heart. We must be stirred to action. As I re potted my plant, it immediately looked better and I even gave it a little bit more attention than I would have if it had not been turned upside down. When we face our messes, God can bring out the better things in us. Areas we may not have looked at in a while, may need some attention. We have a loving God who can gently take our messes and bring something good out of them. "knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope." Romans 5:3-4.

As we face the messes of life, we have a help and a hope that can help us deal with them and clean them up. He is HOPE!

"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

Tuesday’s “Orange” Texture

2011-08-29T21:21:00.002-04:00

The theme for today’s Texture Tuesday is “Orange”. The thought was since autumn is coming, it was a perfect opportunity to show some orange.

In our area, the leaves don’t change colors and fall weather is still months away! Today, the temperature hit 100! So, I had to look pretty hard for something orange!

My oldest son was wearing an orange shirt (football season is a sure sign of fall around here) and was working on his fishing reel. After some adjustments to give the photo a vintage feel, I added the textures Mayzee and Serendipity, then used the eraser to bring back some of the orange color. Not exactly autumn orange, but it’s the orange that’s going on around here!

Order In the Home

2011-08-28T16:39:00.003-04:00

This week is that transitional week of end of summer to beginning a new school year. It is one more week of summer freedom from strict routine and filled with more fun than work, but there have to be some preparations made before the first week of school starts.

ORDER! Oh how I crave it!! Especially in my home. God has given to women the privilege and responsibility of being the manager of their home. We have as an important a task as the manager of any business. Just as a business can't run well without order, nor can a home. I don't know about you, but I can't run my home efficiently without some order. Here are a few tips on how to have some order in the home!

O - ORGANIZATION

A great sayings is, "Things don't just happen; you have to make them happen." We cannot make our home run efficiently unless we organize. This will be different in every home. Some women are high-powered organizers; others are laid back. Whatever our personality, we must have a certain amount of organization. The blatant fact is that if you just let life happen, chaos eventuates! You must plan your meals, make sure supper is ready in time for your husband coming home each evening, organize your cleaning and laundry, and of course, train your children to do their specific tasks. To organize a home does not mean that you are a slave in the home. You are the organizer, making it happen by getting everyone involved. (1 Timothy 5:14).

R - ROUTINE

Routine is the pattern of the day that the family follows. I don't like strict schedules with no flexibility, but a good routine works well for me. Things like dishes, laundry, meals etc. done every day help keep order and efficiency. Routine established good or bad habits in the home. This is an area that can be constantly improved upon. Nancy Campbell of Above Rubies wrote this about routines.

"In our home I expect everyone to be up in time for breakfast. We have our Family Devotions at 8.00 am. Anyone who has not finished their breakfast before this time misses out on breakfast. It is over. We can't keep meals going all day. We have to clean up and get on with the day. We have lunch at a certain time and supper at a certain time. I am aghast when I hear of mothers allowing their children, and especially their teens, to sleep in and get up whenever they want. This is poor training and does not prepare them for life. It does not prepare them for a career and how to get to work on time and does not prepare daughters for running a home. Children should learn to get up at a certain time. The day is for work and adventure, the night is for sleeping! (Proverbs 6:6-11; 13:4; 24:3-34; 26:14)."" Routine takes diligence, but will reap great rewards!

D - DISCIPLINE

Order can only happen with discipline, firstly in our own lives and then teaching it to our children. Discipline takes much effort and sacrifice. It affects us as we try to get to bed at a reasonable hour so we can get up early and be ready to face the day-to prepare breakfast, put in a load of laundry, organize schooling and each child to their various tasks. It often puts our desires on hold to train our children, give attention to our spouse or spend time on our home. This sacrifice is worth it though as order, good habits and the teaching of these are passed along and will be established for a long time.

E - ENCOURAGEMENT

Keeping a home running smoothly is easier said than done! Children lag behind. They disobey and complain. But they'll get tired of you nagging. Inspire and encourage your children instead. When you train your young children you may need to use some treats to get them motivated. Sometimes you may want to print up a schedule on the fridge. Each child who is up on time each morning gets a star. Each child who does their appointed task without complaining gets a star. The one who gets the most stars at the end of the week gets a prize-something worthwhile. This gives them incentive and encouragement to do what is right and to get into the habit of doing it. Loving and kind words, thank yous and job well done are also great motivators.

R - RESISTANCE

There are times when resistance will come. Sometimes we have to resist the resistance that comes from your children and teens. They may want to keep sleeping. They will naturally be lazy. They will muddle around instead of doing their chores. Don't give in! Consistency is vital! Keep up your plan. Keep the order until it is a habit in the home. Training doesn't just happen, it takes time and doing things over and over, but it will become a habit if you are consistent and don't give in! (Isaiah 28:9-10).

Now we've seen how order times time, diligence and consistency. Much attention must be made to keep order. However, in the midst of keeping order, we must also have freedom; freedom to change our plans if something special is happening; to halt our schedule if someone needs help or arrives at our home and needs encouragement, or freedom to do something unexpected and different, just for the spice of life. Keeping a basic sense of order in the home gives freedom to do fun things.

"Thank you, dear Father, that you are a God of order. Please teach me how to keep order in my home just as you have order in your heavenly home. Amen."

The beauty of my home is order!

For more encouragement on the home, see Above Rubies.

Swimming Waters

2011-08-25T11:32:00.001-04:00

The area I live in is surrounded by natural springs. These are beautiful, pure, natural, bubbling water, which is very cold! Unfortunately, being raised a city girl, my swimming foundation is a concrete swimming pool, with nice, warm water. My husband was raised swimming in these springs and trained our boys to love them. I, however was always a bit reluctant to get into the ice cold water, so I usually sit on the sidelines.

Recently our church had a family day at one of these springs. It was clear and beautiful and on this hot afternoon, I stepped off into the water, which was way too cold for me and promptly backed out! As only a little boy can do, my youngest son asked me to jump off the platform into the springs with him....and since he insisted that we have never done this together and hinted that he would be forever scarred if I didn't do this with him...I agreed. With butterflies in my stomach and the dreaded anticipation of every ounce of my body being plunged into ice cold, jarring water....side by side we jumped!

As my body hit the water and plunged downward, it was cold, but also invigorating!! As my head surfaced and I saw the smile of my son and heard the cheers of our friends, I was so glad I took the plunge. As I swam, the water refreshed me and felt so good! How pure and natural this water was kept going through my mind as I floated and stroked through the water. Why had it taken me so long to appreciate God's gift of nature?

Do you ever feel as a Christian that you are 'standing on the banks'? Knowing there is more, but scared to 'venture out'? As we grow in our faith and Christian walk, we can relate to stepping in with our toes or perhaps wading in to our knees. There will be challenges and fears as we grow in the Lord but we can keep walking with Him. Shoulder deep in water feels wonderful as most of the body is immersed in water. Finally we take the plunge and go under, fully surrounded and supported by water. Oh, how I love the feeling of swimming, completely free to move through the water. As we completely give our lives to Christ - every area, He supports us, surrounds us and in Him, we live, move and have our being.

May we never get stagnant or be satisfied by standing on the banks watching because of our fears. As we walk in deeper waters, God will hold our hand and we will find that "He gives us life abundantly". Will you wade out today?

Over At the Well Today...Talking About A Growth Spurt!

2011-08-24T09:40:00.000-04:00

I'm over At the Well today, talking about a recent growth spurt I had!!! Even mothers can grow up sometimes!!

Back To School–Texture Tuesday

2011-08-23T09:50:00.002-04:00

The theme for today’s Texture Tuesday is ‘back to school’. Although our family homeschools, our first day back to school was this week. As a Christian family, one of the blessings of schooling our children is to put the Word of God in their hearts. I love the freedom to share the Bible in our teaching and desire for God to show us His ways and lead us in His paths.

This picture captures a great foundation and tool for our back to school. The textures used were “Love in Layers, Not Too Shabby and Just Stitched”. I love Kim’s textures and appreciate the opportunity to play and learn with them!

Media Monday Wrap Up

2011-08-21T20:56:00.001-04:00

This week marks the end of the Media Monday series. It has been interesting thinking about and sharing with others how media affects our lives as Christian women. We have explored several relevant areas of our life with the intent of seeing "how is social media and this digital world of ipads, iphones and ipods affecting our relationship with God, our marriages, our parenting, our homemaking, our friendships and our health?"

Media affects us each of these areas and it was a somewhat surprise how much I enjoy and use technology. It also brought awareness of how time consuming this pleasure can be! Relationships can be strengthened, knowledge can be gained, friendships formed and bonds made and encouragement can be given and received. But reading, chatting, texting while being convenient should never take the place of face to face relationships or hinder our duties and tasks of being a wife, mother and keeper of the home.

A recent Sunday School lesson brought out some points about personal pleasure which are very applicable to this subject.

1. Any pleasure that refreshes you without diminishing you, distracting you, or sidetracking you from the ultimate goal is a legitimate pleasure. (Using media time wisely)

2. Any pleasure that jeopardizes the sacred right of another is an illicit pleasure. (Use caution of competition, open doors of jealousy or comparing of self)

3. Any pleasure, however good, if not kept in balance, will distort reality or destroy appetite. (left unchecked, media or technology can chain us, consume us and use way too much time and attention)

So for me this pleasure, enriches me, provides opportunity to be a giver and strengthens relationships, it is critical to have balance always remembering to keep the Lord and the things of Him first and foremost.

"‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ Matthew 22:37

"I Was Just Making Sure You Were There"

2011-08-18T11:47:00.001-04:00

Every morning my youngest son calls out from his bed, "Mama". After I answer he says the same thing every day, "I was just making sure you were there." I always am. If a rare occasion arises when I'm not, his daddy is - we would never leave him alone.

It blesses this mama's heart to know that I can provide security and comfort. I also know that he won't always wake with this as his first thought. So for today, I put this blessing down on the August Gratitude List to cherish and remember these moments.

What if as Christian women, our first rising call would be to our Heavenly Father? "I was just making sure You were there". Of course, we know He is, but for most women, their waking thoughts immediately give way to what needs to be done today and how little time we have to accomplish it. What a difference it would make in our day if our first thoughts were of the Lord and reminding and reassuring ourselves that He is indeed there and ready to help us with anything and everything we need for the day.

I learned two new terms today that I want to keep constant in my heart and live out in daily life. "A Sanctuary Frame of Mind" is being quiet and still before God. It can be when we are alone with Him or in the middle of our hectic days. It is the purposeful stilling our mind and heart before Him, stop our inner turmoil, pressing worries and anxieties and realize that God is in control and He loves us. "Constant Communion" is a reminder that the Holy Spirit is in our lives.and willing to speak, direct and guide us at any time. He is always there. It is often my own choosing to focus on the other voices and demands calling out and vying for my attention.

May each morning bring His new mercies in our lives and may we purposefully seek that sanctuary frame of mind and been in constant communion with Him. Walking daily with the Lord secures our steps on this path of life.

Pear Picking With the Birthday Boy

2011-08-15T19:54:00.000-04:00

Recently my youngest and I went pear picking!

I picked pears…

He posed!!

And showed off his birthday gift…new shoes….

But we did get a bounty of pears…

And gleaned a harvest of pears to put up some pear butter to enjoy through the year.

Sometimes its the simple things that bring the most joy!

Media and Our Health

2011-08-14T21:13:00.000-04:00

Today's topic for Media Mondays is "Media and Our Health". This is one of my favorite media tools..(haven't I said that before???!!). Google is my favorite doctor!! In the last month, our family has found remedies for gout, rotator cuff surgery, inflammation, athlete's foot and others online. Healthy eating, foods that detox and herbal remedies are areas where my knowledge has greatly increased due to the influence of media.

As my knowledge has grown, also a little bit of wisdom has been gained. Any health subject 'googled' will bring an enormous amount of information relating to that subject. Here are a few tips to avoid information overload and falling into deception or receiving false advice.

Try to be as specific as possible. Typing in 'stomach pain' can span a diagnosis between constipation to cancer. If you are looking for a diagnosis, type in specific symptoms (upper stomach pain), if you know the ailment, type in ____ remedies or treatment. Don't immediately believe everything you read! Some sites will scare you with the complications and 'what ifs'. Use caution and wisdom when reading what this symptom may be.

Choose information wisely. Many websites will come up that deal with a single topic. Sort through to find the most reliable. If a site solution to the problem is selling a product, I usually pass on by. I'm looking for accurate information first. Read the web site's name. Look for authentic websites, preferably those whose name has been heard before and endorsed by a reputable association.

Read and re-read. If a remedy is shared, write it down and keep on with the research. Look for a pattern with the remedy being shared over and over. Read comments by those who have used the remedy, did it work, any negative experiences?

Seek the Lord- Prayer should always be the first method we choose. Seek the wisdom of the Lord regarding our health. If an ailment is serious, don't hesitate to seek medical help. If the ailment is minor, read, research and use your good judgement. A treatment I read for athlete's foot was to pour bleach water over the foot. This just didn't sit well with me, so we used tea tree oil instead. Use common sense.

The Internet is a valuable tool for healthy living. There is a wealth of information on healthy eating, exercise, ways to implement and engage in a healthy lifestyle. I love the saying of old 'chew the fat, but spit out the bones'. What a blessing this tool can be, but let's be careful not to take in everything we read, keep the good, let go of the bad!

The Green Generation

2011-08-09T15:10:00.001-04:00

"Going Green" is a byword of today's generation and began the idea behind taking care of God's creation which surely is a good plan. But somewhere along the line things seem to go a bit overboard. What started out as a very worthwhile cause many years ago has turned into a very commercialized thing that plays on peoples’ fears to promote everything from products to TV shows to platforms for political candidates.

I'm always amazed when I come into contact with those who wonder and worry about eating the wrong thing or buying the wrong product. How in the world did the former generations make it without 'being green"? I read an interesting article that showed how wasteful the older generation was:

In the line at the store, the cashier told the older woman that she should bring her own grocery bag, because plastic bags weren't good for the environment. The woman apologized to him and explained, "We didn't have the green thing back in my day."

The clerk responded, "That's our problem today. The former generation did not care enough to save our environment." He was right. That generation didn't have the green thing in its day.

Back then, they returned their milk bottles, soda bottles and beer bottles to the store. The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilized and refilled so the company could use the same bottles over and over. So they really were recycled.

But they didn't have the green thing back in that customer's day.

In her day they walked up stairs, because they didn't have an escalator in every store and office building. They walked to the grocery store and didn't climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time they had to go two blocks.

But she was right. They didn't have the green thing in her day.

Back then, they washed the baby's diaper, because they didn't have the throw-away kind. They dried clothes on a clothesline, not in an energy gobbling machine burning up 220 volts - wind and solar power really did dry the clothes. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing.

But that old lady is right, they didn't have the green thing back in her day.

Back then they had the one TV, or radio, in the house - not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief, not a screen the size of the state of Montana. In the kitchen they blended and stirred by hand, because they didn't have electric machines to do everything for them.

When they packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, they used a wadded up old newspaper to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.

Back then, they didn't fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. They used a push mower that ran on human power. They exercised by working so they didn't need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity.

But she's right, they didn't have the green thing back then.

They drank from a fountain when they were thirsty instead of using a throw away cup or a plastic bottle every time they had a drink of water. They refilled their writing pens with ink instead of buying new pens, and they replaced the razor blades in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull.

But they didn't have the green thing back then.

Back then people took the streetcar or a bus, and kids rode their bikes to school or rode the school bus instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. They had the one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And they didn't need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pizza joint.

Isn't it sad the current generation laments how wasteful the old folks were just because they didn't have the green thing back then?

From a newsletter by Living On A Dime.

Media and Our Friendshps

2011-08-07T16:00:00.000-04:00

Today's Media Monday topic is "Media and Our Friendships" and will probably be my favorite one!! Media Mondays offer the opportunity to reflect and share how media and technology have affected our lives as Christian women.

Women need friendships. They need connection. C.S. Lewis said “Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You too? I thought I was the only one”. At their best, friendships are a gift. They’re supportive, honest, uplifting and sometimes they can even be a lifesaver. There’s nothing like having a close friend to rely on, get advice from, shed our tears with and share our trials and tribulations with. A healthy friendship can often be our anchor in a storm.

Friendships take time and effort. In our lives today, dropping by a friend's house for cake, coffee and conversation doesn't happen very often. We're busy, other demands are calling us and our friendships get put on hold. What's the answer?

Technology opens up other avenues between friends! Email, texting, facebook, twitter brings us that connection in an instant! Reading blogs brings us up to date with far away friends and family and allows us a peek into their daily lives.

Some great benefits of technology and our friendships may include:

more communication - through Facebook, I connect with other women through the week I would not usually see
quick opportunities to check in - an email sent to a friend in the midst of a busy week shows our care and concern
time saving - sometimes my next door neighbor and I communicate through email when a long phone conversation is not an option
sharing resources - a fellow homeschool mom and I share resources with each other with just a click
greater connection - reaching out as a Titus 2 woman with kind comments and encouragement

Blogging has opened up a whole new variety of friendships. I have been so blessed and encouraged by online friends in many areas.

Although I've never met Kelly - I've been 'friends' with her since the birth of her two children
Ann gives me a dose of spiritual encouragement and resources that stretch me as a Christian wife and mother
Sally is a true Titus 2 woman, teaching me how to love my husband,children and home
And there are many more!!

But as much as a blessing technology brings to friendships, true face to face contact and sharing cannot be replaced. May we be wise in using our media to stay connected but never use it as a replacement of a true friend. Let your friends know what a blessing they are on line and make it a point to share - in person!!