Lady of Blessings

Training Your Eye

2012-01-23T18:52:00.000-06:00

Before going to garage sales or thrift stores, I like to "train" my eyes on what to look for. So I peruse magazines and catalogs for items that will fit in nicely with the decor of my house. Two of my favorite catalogs are Pottery Barn and Victorian Trading Company. Right now my current passion is glassware. Two recent purchases include 6 footed Fostoria tumblers and 4 footed coffee mugs $3+ for all (I saw similar ones at Crate and Barrel).

So as you window shop retail, take note of what appeals to you by taking a picture with your cell phone or creating a PinInterest board and before you go secondhand treasure shopping, review your pictures and that will "train" your eye to spy those things you are seeking.

Long Distance Parenting Stinks!

2011-10-12T10:38:00.000-05:00

One minute they are a baby cuddled in your arms looking up at you adoringly. Then, before you can even turn around you are attending their high school graduation. Now the little baby that made you a mother is living 2 1/2 hours away and bruskly reminding you often that although they need your money, they can run their lives without your input quite nicely... so stop it with the unasked for advice already.

Recently, I have been through such an experience. My daughter transitioned to her new role quite nicely. Me? Not so much. For the past two months, I've been worrying, praying, snooping, facebook stalking, relentlessly questioning, nagging and anything else I can think of to be in the know about every single detail of my child's life without seeing her every day. Let me tell you, it was exhausting!

Thankfully, my best friend of 33+ years put it in perspective for me. She laughed at me! She also reminded me of our freshman year in college! Which then got me to thinking about God's grace and mercy. Although, I lived at home during college and commuted, I too thought my parent's rule over me was over and I could run my own life and didn't have to tell them every single detail. I did mess up some decisions. I made mistakes. I tried new things. I dated a few boys until I found the one for me. All things my girl is going through now. My friend is right...it's genetic!

But here is where I was failing at trusting the Lord. He loves my child more than I do. He is watching over her. He cares for her. He will lead her. He will convict her when needed. All my worrying was for naught. Whatever His permissive will allows in her life is for her good to train her. If she makes a mistake from a poor decision, she will be learning a lesson that He needs her to know. As humans, I believe we learn more from our mistakes because they humble us before Him. He may have adventures planned for her that He would never have for me because I'm a big, old scaredy cat but my daughter has a zest for life in that she craves new experiences.

I had the breakthrough though in what the Lord was trying to teach me. Surrender my child to His care! And since doing so, there has been peace in my soul. I still pray for her daily, not with tears and anguish as before, but now with a quiet confidence. And the blessing is, I'm no longer exhausted with my fruitless efforts but now have a rested spirit that is waiting on the Lord for my next assignment in serving His kingdom.

I need to figure out who I am

2011-08-30T22:40:00.000-05:00

With all the changes that have taken place over the past couple of years, I'm not sure who I am. To ask a question asked in a movie "what are my tastes, my passions and my pursuits?" Beats the heck out of me! I haven't asked myself for years now. Self-examination has never been an enjoyable way to spend time for me but I think I'm ready to face some hard truths and ask some hard questions to arrive at what I want my life to look like for the next 20-30 years.

I know I want a deepening relationship with my Lord and Saviour. I know I want to be my husband's wife for the rest of my days. I know I want to see my children finish growing up, establish themselves and have their own children at the right time.

I dream of a more rural life but that probably won't happen because it isn't my husband's vision. So I'll settle for a simple life which has similarities to a rural life.

I wish to embrace more creative activities and try new things. I've been in a rut and I'm quite bored somedays.

I hope I can have pondering time. So much of my life has been snap decisions and by the seat of my pants planning. I want to have purpose in everything that occupies my days.

I want to never reach the end of my life and look back and have regrets because I settled for sameness day after day.

But I'm SPECIAL

2011-08-23T14:06:00.000-05:00

We all know people like this. Or we are like this. People who think they are superior to those around them. People who think they are the exception to the rules. People who think the world owes them respect and more. People who think others should accomodate them 100 percent of the time. People who think others do not matter, not one little bit. We see this all the time in the world. But when it is most disappointing is when we see this type of behavior within Christian circles. Here are some recent examples I have witnessed that have caused a check in my spirit and serve as reminders to evaluate myself constantly in this area:

people who think they have NOTHING to learn from someone else. I see a deplorable lack of respect for older women's advice because it's old-fashioned or not relevant and not modern like the internet. Truly, it is a blessing that they wish to have you benefit from their experience.
people who think they do not have to abide by the speed limit. Just this morning, two different people tailgated me and gave me those universal hand signals when they passed me because I was going the speed limit. But they are the ones putting others' lives at risk with their erractic driving.
people who think they can treat servers at restaurants anyway they want to because hey that's their job--to serve ME. You know what, you deserve it when they spit in your food!
people who expect everyone else to rearrange their schedules to accomodate their schedule (there is always one in any particular group!) You are not the only busy one...trust me!
people who refuse to believe that their children would do anything wrong (come on...you live with your children. You know they try and pull stuff all the time). If someone has the gall to alert you to bad behavior committed by your child, you should be thanking them. They have done you a great service. It's not fun to hear but sometimes it is necessary to hear the truth. When you resent it, that's just your pride making an appearance. Take it humbly because God gives grace to the humble.
people who wouldn't take an opportunity to assist a fellow human being because it was not on their to do list for that day. I am convinced that God hands us multiple opportunities per day to help others and we are blind to them or refuse to recognize them.

What about you? What behaviors like those described above get on your nerves? Go ahead and describe them in the comments because you never know, God may use your words to convict someone of their selfish behavior.

Always faithful...a tribute

2011-08-16T19:24:00.000-05:00

I am a blessed woman. I am married to the most noble of men. As we approach our 23rd anniversary, I wish to pay homage to this wonderful man:

He is a servant leader
He is thoughtful
He is self sacrificing
He puts his needs last
He isn't particular; setting some impossible standard
He holds those he's responsible for accountable
He works hard everyday without complaint
He has a great sense of humor
He is not daunted by hard times
He is encouraging
He is ingenious
He has no bad habits
He is a fabulous father who has tied heartstrings
He overlooks his loved ones' faults
He takes his many responsibilities seriously
He picks out the best cards for special occasions
He asks me everyday "how is my wife today? is there anything I can do for you?"
He kisses me everyday without fail
He takes care of his mother and my mother equally
He is dependable and trustworthy
He is handsome *blush*
He is kind...to everyone
He is humble

He thinks he is nothing special...that most guys are like him but I remain unconvinced. I choose to believe that he is God's gift to me. Besides, God knew no one else would put up with me!

So my dearest husband, I wish for nothing but another 50 years of life by your side. Love, Your Wife

On my mind

2011-08-12T19:51:00.001-05:00

...are the traits of gratitude and contentment. I see very little evidence that it is common in our society any more even within Christian circles. So many of us focus on what we do not possess. But in reality if we have food, clothing and shelter...we have more than enough. But instead we chase after fancy cars and fancier homes (complete with granite countertops and travertine floors), luxury vacations, designer clothes, shoes and handbags and when we finally obtain our goal we are satisfied for about five seconds and then we are devising schemes to obtain the next thing we want. It makes me sick that we are willing to enslave ourselves and our husbands to debt to get stuff that we will be selling at a garage sale for 10 percent of what we originally paid for it or come to resent because we can't truly enjoy them because we are making payments on it for years. Also, we pay for it more dearly than we can ever imagine. How many marriages have been sacrificed because there is never enough money? How many people in poverty could have been helped had we been just a little less selfish and far more generous? How many of our children will have silently observed and picked up the ungrateful attitude from their parents and taken it even farther, because hey, kids love to outdo their parents.

There is a better way:

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. Phillipians 4:11

And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 1 Timothy 6:8

[Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5

I will be crying out to God to heal me in this area.

I guess I've got the wrong opinion!

2011-08-12T07:50:00.000-05:00

Although, I find it absolutely ridiculous to have 8 people participate in a debate at one time, I do admit watching some of the Republican debate last night. Now the media says Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich "won." But I have to say just watching a portion of the exchanges, I was more impressed with Herman Cain and Ron Paul. Why you ask? Because they were "real." I didn't feel I was being sold an image that a bunch of handlers came up with. They were who they are without apology and were not just spouting off talking points. And just in case you were interested, here's my opinion "tongue in cheek" of all the candidates:

Mitt Romney - He's slick and hasn't aged in years...how is that possible?

Newt Gingrich - He's all superior and pompous

Rick Santourum - I've always admired his morality and principles but he strikes me as gullible

Michelle Bachmann - a female Obama; not that they agree on anything but on the issue of experience

Tim Pawlenty - kind of a bully the way he picked on everyone

John Huntsman - unknown (he's got a lot of experience!) but I'm willing to learn more

Herman Cain - I like that he's a Washington outsider with real world experience

Ron Paul - one kooky libertarian but I like that. Government is much too involved in our lives.

There you have it...the opinions of a nobody from the midwest!

The Last Time

2011-08-10T21:08:00.000-05:00

You never know when,

you will speak to a loved one

for the last time.

My time was a Monday evening,

Things were said, comfort given

for the last time.

His body complete with battle scars

fought once more for a few days

for the last time.

His funeral arranged, the sea of faces

with stories galore, many to be heard

for the last time.

Now the real work begins,

Life without him and his irreverent humor

A unique creation that God made

for the last time.

But go on we must,

whether we want to or not

In the next world, he waits

to see all of us and

this time we will never be seeing

each other for the last time.

I don't know if I am ready for this....

2011-08-09T18:29:00.000-05:00

the girl who made me a mother is leaving in 10 days to begin her adult life. No longer will I see her everyday and know most of her business. No longer will I be able to just utter my unwanted advice and guidance (much to her relief). No longer will I see the daily miracle of her life and that sets me to wondering...

Have I done a good enough job of parenting her? Is she prepared to live in peace with college roommates? Will she be up to the job of time management and handling her responsibilities (laundry, cleaning, meeting homework deadlines, etc.) without my reminders (she would say constant nagging!)? Will she hold on to her faith? Will she still need my presence in her life?

I predict the first couple of weeks, I'm going to be one big worry wart. But as she enjoys her new adventures and adjusts to her new situation, I'll be seeking to fill large gaps of time and the huge empty space in my heart.

Finishing up Thanksgiving

2010-12-10T09:01:00.000-06:00

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 19. I'm thankful that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. John 14:6

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 20. I'm thankful that my life has a purpose...to Love the Lord my God with all my heart and with all my soul and with all my strength. Deut. 6:5

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 21. I'm thankful that nothing about me is hidden from my Lord. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither [any thing] hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. Luke 8:17

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 22. I'm thankful for conviction...it assures me of the Holy Spirit's presence in my life. When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: John 16:8

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 23. I'm thankful that I am not now who I was then. Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 24. I'm thankful that God is so very patient. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 25. I'm thankful for a husband with a great sense of humor. On burning the ham, he said "We just made a great holiday memory!" We? I did the cooking but he didn't want me to be alone in the blame. Isn't he something?

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 26. I am thankful that I survived Black Friday shopping with Darcy!

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 27. I am thankful that my children are healthy and happy.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 28. I am thankful that Christ is the solid rock on which I stand.

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 29. I am thankful for abundant blessings. Truly my cup runneth over.

‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 30. I am thankful for lessons learned during these 30 days. My eyesight has been extended beyond my selfishness and life has been more joyful by looking for the good instead of focusing on the worrisome.

Trying to be Thankful

2010-11-18T11:02:00.000-06:00

I am determined to be thankful and to express it specifically each day in November. Here's what I've come up with so far:

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 1. I'm thankful for Jesus and how He has provided a way for sinners to be reconciled to God the Father.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 2. I'm thankful for God's Word which will stand forever.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 3. I'm thankful for my husband. He is truly the best person I have ever met...in thoughtfulness, kindness and morals.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 4. I'm thankful for my Darcy girl. She amazes me every single day. God blessed me greatly with the opportunity to be her mother.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 5. I'm thankful for my Buddy boy. Never have I met such a good humored person and a young man so serious about serving the Lord with his life. For a mother, nothing could be more fulfilling than that. Thank you Heavenly Father.
30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 6. I'm thankful for the snug little home that is a refuge for our family.
30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 7. I'm thankful for dear friends that know my faults and my weaknesses and still like me anyway.
30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 8. I'm thankful that my husband and I both have jobs when so many don't.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 9. I'm thankful that I've never known one day of hunger in my life.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 10. I'm thankful that God is the same, yesterday, today and forever.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 11. I'm thankful that the one and only true God made Himself known to me. I would hate to think what kind of person I would be without Him.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 12. I'm thankful that God's mercies are new every morning. [It is of] the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. [They are] new every morning: great [is] thy faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 13. I'm thankful for my sweet momma. She's put up with me for years.
30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 14. I'm thankful for my church family...they bless me so.
30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 15. I'm thankful that God supplies all my needs. Slowly but surely He's teaching me the difference between needs and selfish wants.
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 16. I'm thankful that God is the Creator. Happy [is he] that [hath] the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope [is] in the LORD his God: Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein [is]: which keepeth truth for ever: Psalm 146:5-6
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 17. I'm thankful that I am forgiven. Blessed [is he whose] transgression [is] forgiven, [whose] sin [is] covered. Psalm 32:1
‎30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 18. I'm thankful that one day I will be with the Lord forever. Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18

The ridiculous time of year

2010-10-21T08:43:00.000-05:00

Fall is my favorite time of year, except when it is an election year. Inundated with political phone calls, political ads and nothing on the news but politics, it's almost too depressing to even get out of bed some days. Lying, manipulation, more lying, spinning, more lying, defamation of your opponent and then more lying. But I'll just endure until that day of glory when all kingdoms will be put under the rule of a perfect king, Jesus Christ.

Oh, if I could only grasp this...

2010-10-07T09:19:00.000-05:00

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Phillipians 2:2

esteem: To prize; to set a high value on; to regard with reverence, respect or friendship.

Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather [suffer yourselves to] be defrauded? 1st Corinthians 6:7

The whole idea of esteeming others better and taking the wrong are such foreign concepts to me. Why? Probably because I'm too worldly in this area. The world says "look out for number one" and "I have my rights" and I will admit that I've gone along with this thinking for quite some time. I also have this over-developed sense of fairness and justice which leads me to get quite riled if a situation appears, in my opinion, to be unfair and unjust.

Probably a better course of action is to stop, pray, search God's word for wisdom, reflect and then react. Nothing comes into my life without the express knowledge of God and always to help me to become more like His Son. I need to reach for holiness and charity instead of my own sense of justice and self-glorification.

One of my defects...

2010-09-23T10:13:00.000-05:00

is that I don't always do what I should do when I should do it. Why? I'm not always sure. Sometimes it is laziness. Sometimes I'm afraid others won't like me. Sometimes I think it won't make a difference. Sometimes I lack courage. Sometimes I don't know where to even begin. Sometimes I let others dictate my actions. All of these excuses has led to enslavement.

My time is not my own nor is it available for what God would have me do. I do things I don't want to do and these things don't seem like God's will for me. I believe if it was God's will, I would have peace but instead I'm unsettled, discontent and restless. I have a longing to bust free but is that just my heart and my selfishness deceiving me? I don't know. I'm just confused. Why can't God just put it in neon lights, "Donna...do this, not that." It would make it so much easier.

It might but I would be missing out on some very valuable lessons. In Ephesians 5:15-16 we are instructed to:

See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Have I been walking circumspectly? No. I haven't been consulting the Lord about my days as I should. Have I been redeeming the time? No, not really. Sometimes my efforts are spent on the things that last but not the majority of the time.

Time for prayer and seeking the Lord more intensely instead of drifting along like I have been lately.

Mote and beam issues

2010-09-16T08:44:00.000-05:00

I am probably the most critical person you could ever hope to meet. This is a most unfortunate fact. I've been practicing for about 40 years now so I've got it down pretty well. If I've known you for any length of time, I can probably rattle off my opinion of your top 5 faults. If I've just met you, well I'll limit you to just one or two.

Here's the rub. My faults and weaknesses total more than all of my acquaintenances' faults and weaknesses combined. Another unfortunate fact. They may not be observable to the human eye but trust me, they are there and God Almighty sees them.

Matthew 7:3-5 says: "And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye."

Time for application: 1) The world doesn't need my help in pointing out it's faults. 2) My talent in being critical needs to be turned to an appropriate target, myself so as to perform introspective examination and ascertain where I am falling short of God's standards. 3) I truly don't want to be known as a hypocrite...does anyone? 4) I will never be done in getting that beam out of my own eye so quite frankly I need to quit attempting mote removal on everyone else.

The Changes are still going on...

2010-09-02T11:45:00.000-05:00

I hardly recognize my former life. I used to be a stay at home mom, now I work outside the home. I used to be a homeschooling mom, now my children attend public school. I didn't realize at the time how much of my identity was tied up in these two roles. It's enough to throw a middle aged gal into an identity crisis!

But this I do know about myself: I am a child of God (that will never change), I am a fortunate wife of a good husband (I hope he will keep me around) and I am a mother to two wonderful blessings who by the grace of God are turning into some amazing people before my eyes. Somedays, I look at them in wonder and think wow!

What does the future hold? I can honestly say, I don't know but He does!

How are you going thru...

2010-01-06T16:36:00.000-06:00

the Bible this year? I've decided to go through chronologically and I'm using this plan here. But the most important thing is that you read...so use whatever plan you are most comfortable with. There is always room to know your Lord better...don't you think?

2009 - A Year of Change

2010-01-02T21:46:00.000-06:00

This past year was difficult one for our family. We lost a beloved father-in-law and grandpa in June. It's been difficult to adjust to life without him. Then even before we started to recover from that tragedy, my father was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer and that battle is still ongoing. He begins radiation next week. Between these two major life events, the everyday things were still going on. The homeschool schedule was interrupted a lot and it took a lot of effort to catch up. Finances grew worrisome and so we made the decision that I would return to work part-time. For the most part that has worked out well but other parts of life have become more rushed and hectic as a result. Then the holidays came and since we were not wanting to increase our debt load, I handmade most of the gifts we gave and that took every spare moment.

I was shocked that I haven't posted since the end of October but in reality, I've been busy from the time I wake up until I fall into bed at night for months now but hopefully things will slow down a bit and I can get back to a more regular posting schedule.

Many happy blessings are wished for you all in the New Year!

Someone's Christmas present

2009-10-28T15:05:00.000-05:00

Pretty crocheted dishcloths...made of soft cotton yarn...how delightful!

Birthday gift for a friend

2009-10-21T17:58:00.000-05:00

Well...what to do. A birthday celebration and no money to buy a gift for a friend. So I ventured into the cluttered basement and found material scraps and a pattern. This is what I came up with:

I thought it turned out okay!

Good times and bad times....

2009-10-07T13:42:00.000-05:00

...they all go on at the same time it seems. Here is the good:

Darcy is doing really well with her driving. She's driven almost everyday since she got her license and I'm learning to worry less with each trip she completes successfully.
My new job is going pretty well and our family life hasn't had to undergo any major changes with my working mornings.
I recently had a birthday and I don't feel older...so that's good
We are making progress on paying down debt. Hoping in less than six months we'll be totally debt free.

Here is the worrisome:

my dad has been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer that will require a complicated surgery and weeks of radiation treatments.
a friend was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.
I had a disasterous sleep study with no results but over $1,000 in hospital and doctor bills.
my husband is still working reduced hours which means reduced paychecks but I'm trying to be content...some days I'm better at it than others

Hebrews 10:38 says: Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

I trust Him...I will not draw back...I want Him to be pleased with me.

Change is a coming...

2009-09-15T11:17:00.000-05:00

and I'm a little fearful. My daughter, Darcy turns 16 soon. That means a driver's license is imminent. AAAAGH! How'd did she grow up so fast...she did it while I wasn't looking. This is just one more step towards her independence. Not that she's going to be turned loose to go wherever and whenever she wants. But this milestone has put me in a reflective mood, of how much life will change in the next 5 to 10 years for her and for us. She'll be an adult, making her own choices and starting her life apart from us. That seems impossible but I know it's true. I'm wondering have we prepared her enough...I hope so. Will she stick close to home or seek adventure in the unknown? All we can really do is to entrust her to our Saviour's care...for He loves her evenmore than we do.

It's been something...

2009-09-03T11:30:00.000-05:00

almost every day here lately. So here is my latest news as best as I can remember from the blur of the last few weeks:

the children started school. it's taken awhile to get back into the routine but I think the worst is over. so far no one is behind.
my dad became quite ill. about 6 weeks ago he fell off a horse and hit his head and developed a subdural hematoma. during the preparation for the surgery to fix the hematoma, they discovered a tumor. we're still waiting to hear whether the tumor is malignant or benign.
i now have a part time job outside of the home as a church secretary. i work for four hours and then go home and start my mother and wife duties. please pray that i can be more efficient than i usually am. i desire to do both jobs well so as to bring glory to god.
my health has declined. my blood pressure is really high...i just started a new medicine and i hope it brings it under control. i'm also having to undergo a sleep study because my husband believes i have sleep apnea, which i probably do. all i know is that i wake up a lot and never get a truly restful sleep.

All is not negative though. God is on the throne and He orders my day. Nothing has entered my life without His permissive will.

I'm a soldier...

2009-08-18T10:20:00.003-05:00

image courtesy of peacocksandlilies.com

so are you if you're a Christian. Huh? Read 2 Timothy...just four chapters...for all the details. You'll be blessed!

I'm so proud...

2009-08-13T22:01:00.002-05:00

My oldest and dearest friend in the world has written an e-book and started a blog. She is a talented lady...always has been. Please go visit her...I think you'll love her site!

her e-book site

her blog

She's been a blessing to me since we were thirteen years old and I know she'll be a blessing to all of you!

Oh really???

2009-08-10T17:01:00.002-05:00

Drowning out opposing views is simply un-American.

said by Nancy Pelosi

I agree with you Madame Speaker. So the next time people express their conservative and religious views with you, I'll expect you to be all ears and mouth buttoned. Unlikely in my opinion. No matter to you that conservative and biblical views are being stifled more and more each day....that is an acceptable "drowning out" to you, I suspect.

Well, I'm a lot disgusted

2009-07-30T09:56:00.004-05:00

Was watching the news before starting my day and I saw a story on misspent stimulus funds... you know that $787 billion spending fiasco. The National Endowment for the Arts got something like $50 million and they have spent some of that money on PORNOGRAPHY! Yikes! I couldn't be more upset and repulsed.

See the story here but be advised...there's a graphic photo accompanying the story.

Wow...I haven't posted

2009-07-28T16:41:00.002-05:00

in two months? Can't give you any excuses...none that are any good really. I just needed to slow down and reevaluate some things. Now for updates:

We suffered a family loss on June 29th when a dear loved one passed away. When something like this happens to you personally, you are stopped in your tracks and forced to do some evaluation and ask yourself some hard questions.
Our school year was finished up successfully. I'm proud of both my scholars.
My kiddos went to church camp and had a great time. One of their friends was awakened to his need for the Lord and they are excited they have gained a brother.
My gardening efforts have had mixed results...some successes, some failures. The weeds have been relentless this year.
My husband still has a job (grateful for that) but reduced hours which has had an impact on us. As the family accountant, I've had to become the "NO" lady which makes me oh so popular.
My son turned 14, my brother turned 40 and my momma turned 65.

Things that are coming up:

My daughter is going to another camp before she starts school, to work for a week. I think she'll find this to be an eye-opening experience.
My son will be starting high school on August 3rd.
I may be getting a part-time job...but we'll see. This situation would be ideal for our family but will have to wait and see if this is God's will for our family. I had to put together a resume which I haven't done for 16 years...so that was a task in itself.

What's the deal? Will I continue to blog? Well, one of my original intents when I started this blog was to keep a family diary. So from this perspective, yes I probably will. I just may not be consistent about it. I know I cannot do daily...I just don't have the ideas or opinions. But once or twice a week...I hope I can do this. Life has just been a little overwhelming as of late and I had to drop the unnecessary and just get through each day. But such is life with two busy and social teenagers. I'm sure one day, I'll be complaining about how boring everything is. So you see, I'm rarely content with my situation! Anyway, looking forward to catching up with everyone. Bye!

I'm not sure...

2009-06-01T10:24:00.002-05:00

what I feel about this. This man killed over 60,000 babies. He took full advantage of an ambiguous part of the law called the "mother's mental health exception" for third-term abortions (i.e. viable babies). In one way, his death when contrasted with his way of living and prospering by violence against the most innocent among us seems just. Recently, he had been put on trial on 19 counts and was acquitted. The legal means had been pursued and failed. How else is evil stopped unless you become evil yourself. Which is what the shooter became when he pulled the trigger yesterday morning. The shooter broke "Thou shall not murder" commandment. But then I think, how many times did David pray for the demise of his enemies and he was called a man after God's own heart.

The questions go on and on. What Bible believing church in it's right mind would allow an abortion doctor to be a member? Why is the abortion doctor portrayed as a hero by the media and the shooter a coward when the former killed over 60,000 and the latter killed one? Why does the doctor's family call it a tragedy when it affected them personally but the other 60,000 murders weren't tragedies?

I have more questions than answers but this will be something I will be pondering over the next days and months.

I don't want to argue with anyone over this matter. These are my own thoughts on this particular day posted on my blog. If you have a civil comment or question, feel free to post. If you cannot be civil, please do not post.

A lot of work...

2009-05-20T12:43:00.002-05:00

...but not worth the effort? That's my mood after last week's garage sale. I worked all week lightening my clutter in my living room and kitchen, cleaning each item to make it bright and shiny, lugging everything over to my friends house and what were the results? I ended up lugging most everything back home, I was exhausted, and came home with $50 for my entire week's effort. I watch clutter shows on t.v. and they make hundreds or even thousands from garage sales. I'm now quite insecure...have I had junk in my house all these years that is so pitiful that I can't give it away? I guess so and that is quite sobering.

This past weekend was spent going to and from graduation ceremonies and parties. I had Darcy select the presents this year. She chose a book entitled "Authentic Beauty" for one of her friends, a Sonic gift card for another and a devotional book by Beth Moore for yet another. I was proud of the thought she put into each one ... I usually just give cash because its convenient.

Over the weekend, Brad took his entrance exam for high school and did quite well. He doesn't like to let on how smart he really is...the sneaky boy.

I'm under a crocheting deadline so I better go work on it. Talk to you soon.

Busy Monday

2009-05-11T19:19:00.002-05:00

Well, I've committed myself to participate in a yard sale this weekend and my house looks like a tornado has hit it! I'm doing some pretty serious purging for the first time in a long time. I think I'm freaking my husband out because usually I'm quite resistant to letting go of anything. But I'm trying to strike while I'm in this mood because usually once I get it out the door, I'm relieved to have more space around me.

I also did some gardening...got my green beans and tomatoes planted. Should get my corn planted tomorrow.

Well, back to work...more to get rid of.

This is for all....

2009-05-05T17:18:00.002-05:00

you grandmas out there who think this is one handsome young man!

His fashion consultants, which no longer include me, recommended this more hip look!

A surprise!

2009-05-02T10:02:00.003-05:00

Was walking around my backyard garden (or jungle based on your interpretation) and saw this lovely sight:

I've been waiting for years to see such a sight. What are they you ask... apple blossoms!

Being such a mother...

2009-04-28T18:20:00.003-05:00

I found great comfort in this article about "homeschool celebrities," especially considering the media source. So many people judge homeschooling families harshly and chalk them up as socially inept and religious fanatic nutjobs.

Why do we homeschool? I found my heart convicted by Scripture such as:

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. I cannot really train my children if they are away from me nine months of the year for seven to eight hours a day.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9 Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. God has given my husband and me the responsibility with His words of "you shall teach them diligently..."

I do not expect everyone to be convicted in the same way. So feel free to make your choices as you believe God is leading you to but at the same allow me the same freedom. I assure you, I'm not judging you...I'm way too busy just living life.

Do I feel inadequate sometimes? Absolutely, but I trust God will take my humble efforts and make them into something that brings Him glory and honor. I have about four years of homeschooling left and it has gone by so fast. It seems like yesterday we were just venturing into this alternative lifestyle but I'm so glad we did. The blessings have been immense.

News stories catching my eye

2009-04-27T12:16:00.002-05:00

Wow! God must have mighty plans for this young lady.

I don't think I've ever had a day as bad as this. I hope I never will!

The first 100 days have been teeth grinders for me. Remind me...how many more days left of this guy? I'll be like James who was also called "camel knees" before this is all over!

And finally for the positively outrageous and beyond words winner. I'm still shaking my head on this one.

I have returned...

2009-04-23T13:35:00.002-05:00

under pressure from a mother, aunt and cousin who shall remain unnamed. (Note to these three individuals: if you scroll down the right side and hit the button that says suscribe to posts, you should be notified when I do actually post something. No guarantees...I'm not so good at the techie stuff but I'll keep trying until we get it.)

Now back to regular programming. Tax season is done...hallelujah! Gardening is kicking into high gear. We've had quite a bit of rain so the weeds are already going crazy. So pulling weeds and mulching are my plans for this weekend. Things planted recently are a second apple tree (who knew you needed two trees to cross pollinate...no wonder I've yet to see an apple), a peach tree and a pear tree. The salad bed has been planted because it can tolerate cooler temperatures but I'm hesitant to plant my other beds but soon...within the next two weeks for certain. Onions are peaking through the soil but no potatoes yet.

That's enough for today. It'll probably take me a week to catch you all up on everything. Glad, I'm back, I've missed all of you!

Still here...

2009-04-06T19:32:00.000-05:00

but facing my busiest week of tax season yet. See you all in a little over a week.

Sowing...and Sewing

2009-03-18T17:13:00.002-05:00

and hoping for good results in both types. My reluctant farmer husband who is humoring me on my latest projects helped me to:

plant potatoes and onions (red and white) on St. Patrick's Day which is a tradition in our part of the country

plant blueberry, blackberry and raspberry bushes

Mr. B is thinking "oh great...more stuff to mow around." He's not liking my new mantra "Grow food...not grass." Wait until I tell him that I'm hoping to put in a corn field!

As for sewing...I've got a couple of baby showers (one for twins) approaching rapidly, so I decided to attempt rag quilts for the presents. I've got my blocks cut out and I hope to sew them sometime this weekend. If they turn out, I will put a picture up of them.

Okay...that catches you up on some of my more interesting endeavors...the tax returns and the housekeeping are just not as interesting to talk about!

I can hardly stand...

2009-03-06T09:50:00.002-06:00

watching the news anymore.... it's all gloom and doom. I'm not unaware that things are bad for many people but why must we all have to wallow in constant negativity. So let us choose to focus on the positive things and put our energies into what we do control. Refuse to worry about the things we cannot control... just leave those things in the capable hands of God.

Gardening on my mind

2009-02-24T21:34:00.003-06:00

Eventhough it's still February...I'm dreaming of my garden. I received my first seed order from this company. I like the fact that they sell heirloom seeds which aren't hybrids...that means you can save the seeds for use in future years.

Here's a rundown of what I bought:

Herbs: lime basil, purple basil, greek basil, lavender, thyme, lemon balm, cilantro, oregano, chives, mint mix and sage

Vegetables: asparagus, Jacob's Cattle beans, carrots, corn green beans, lettuce, Little Marvel peas, red stuffing peppers, jalapeno peppers, pumpkins, spinach, vegetable spaghetti and four kinds of tomatoes

Fruits: honeydew melon, Jenny Lind melon, Wonderberry and Wilson's Sweet watermelon.

While out running errands, my husband encouraged me to buy some berry bushes so I bought raspberry, blueberry and blackberry bushes.

All of this sounds a little daunting right now but I'm optimistic and I am absolutely positive that I will learn a lot! Some of you who know me in real life are probably getting a good chuckle right now because of my hibernation tendencies in the summertime (I abhor temperatures above 85 degrees) but I'm trying to overcome!

Well, where have I been?

2009-02-17T22:49:00.002-06:00

February 6th - 9th, I was on my annual shopping trip with friends from church. It was fun, but I had to keep myself in check instead of my usual spend now...think about it later. I bought Brad a Snuggie blanket, Darcy socks and tanks, Mr. B a couple of workshirts and a new wallet and bought myself 5 pairs of Croc shoes...2 winter pairs, 2 summer pairs and 1 pink camo pair just for fun...don't worry, those 5pairs only cost me $20.

Last Friday, I spent 10 hours working at a youth fundraiser. I worked with another lady and seven teenage girls to serve a dinner for about 130 people. We served ravioli lasagna (done in a slow cooker), breadsticks, salad and desserts of cheesecake and brownie delight. I don't think I could ever work in the kitchen of a restaurant...let's just say I have a new appreciation on what hard work it is to feed a lot of people at once.

Last Saturday, I spent the morning and afternoon recovering from Friday and then we spent some time delivering Valentines gifts to parents. Sunday was spent focused on church and family.

Monday was spent preparing for the Bible study I teach on Monday evenings. We are going through the gospel of Luke. We did chapters 8, 9 and 10 this week.

Tuesday was spent making my gardening orders, finishing up our tax return, doing my mom's tax return, taking Darcy shopping for her "opera" dress and attending a friend's spa party. This was a super busy day.

If I don't post regularly for the next month...don't worry... it's just tax season and I'm busy doing tax returns for friends and family.

Well, we got word...

2009-02-03T22:11:00.004-06:00

today that my husband's hours are being cut back by 10 hours per week. Frugal mode will have to be kicked up a notch or two. In hindsight, I guess it was a good thing that we gave notice last week that the children are giving up their music lessons...savings $120 per month.

Excited about progress

2009-01-30T11:20:00.003-06:00

Since the first of December, I've been reading five chapters a day of the Bible. This morning, I finished up 2nd Kings. I can't tell you how much I've learned about the history of Israel as a nation and world history as well. I think a good understanding of the Old Testament lays a foundation for understanding the New Testament....because every time you see "as it was written" in the New Testament it is taking you back to scripture in the Old Testament.

My ladies Bible study on Monday nights is going through the gospel of Luke and we'll be done at the end of April.

Tell me what you're studying in the Holy Scriptures right now and what lessons God is showing you.

The Scoby grew...

2009-01-28T15:27:00.002-06:00

It's been two weeks and the scoby grew...it ended up looking like a little pink pancake because the bottled kombucha I started it from was grape flavored. I started brewing my first batch of tea and it should be ready in a week to 10 days. Everyone I've talked to in real life has said "Ewww...gross! or Why would you want to do that?" But I've heard that many times in my life and my family knows I just kind of march to the beat of my own drum by going off in different directions than everyone else.

A couple of financial irritations have cropped up. My husband's work switched insurance companies and our premiums doubled. Oh well, I thought at first at least it's better insurance and it will cover things better. Au contraire! I went to pick up one of my prescriptions and the price more than tripled....Aargh! This is a monthly prescription so, I'm having to revise the budget and look at another area where I can cut to make up the difference. Then we had a situation where we hadn't received a property tax receipt for taxes paid in December. I called our county and they said well we mailed it to your such and such address. I said, I don't have a such and such address...I only have one address and that is the same one I've had for twenty years. So they mailed my receipts to the wrong address...I just hope that our personal information hasn't been compromised.

On the good news front, we did manage to knock off over $800 on one of our debts during this month. If we can continue this, then we can be debt free for a few months until it's time to buy another car.

There are no words...

2009-01-26T11:43:00.001-06:00

for this Obamanation.

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Galatians 6:7

Fleeing Temptation

2009-01-22T17:49:00.002-06:00

One of the ways that I'm trying to save money this year is by not going into certain stores where I don't have a good record of self control. For me those stores are: Hobby Lobby, Michaels and any bookstore. I could go into those stores and always find something to buy. I thought I wasn't doing too bad, because I always used a coupon but in examining where money was spent last year, these stores represented a slow leak on our resources. In three weeks, I can already see a difference.

I'm also not shopping by routine or habit...I'm actually waiting until we need something. I've been surprised about how much time has freed up by my unnecessary errands.

So sometimes good can come of not putting yourself in certain situations.

Well, it's back to the drawing board...

2009-01-20T10:57:00.002-06:00

on the sourdough starter. The bread never would rise. I'm not sure what went wrong. I've found another recipe that I'm going to try and we'll see what happens.

I'm watching the inauguration activities today. I heard that the whole shebang is costing $170 million dollars...that seems very wasteful considering the financial condition of various industries in our country. I just think if that money had gone to various charities that help the poor and downtrodden it would be better. But then I've always been a party pooper!

Well, today begins a new chapter in our country. We'll see what "CHANGE" lies ahead. The 53% majority has gotten what they want...let's see what they do with the opportunity.

Kitchen Experiments

2009-01-16T18:52:00.002-06:00

Started my sourdough starter a week ago Sunday. Should be able to bake some bread tomorrow. We'll see how it turns out.

Also started trying to grow a SCOBY a week ago Sunday so that I can begin brewing Kombucha tea.

Do any of you do either of these and do you have any tips for me????

I'm ashamed to admit...

2009-01-15T22:44:00.002-06:00

...that I just took the Christmas tree down today. It took all afternoon but I'm glad to have my living room back.

...I had a four day read-a-thon where I escaped from 90% of my responsibilities. I don't do this often but I read fiction which I typically don't read much anymore.

Okay...I'm done confessing!

A gift to myself

2009-01-08T21:32:00.002-06:00

I gave myself a Christmas gift this year and that was a subscription to this magazine. I've received two issues and I have been delighted...its very educational too.

If you visit the link and scroll down to the other section it will take you to some recipes and craft projects. My favorite is the honey bee transfers that you can embroider. Enjoy!

When we don't understand

2009-01-06T22:26:00.002-06:00

God's ways. Sometimes we can see His purpose other times we cannot. When we see loved ones suffering it is hard to bear. It's hard not to question Why? What could possibly be the point of hearts breaking, rivers of tears cried and not being able to see past the pain?

This is where faith must enter. Trusting God that He knows best and not doubting His goodness. He loves our loved ones more than we do.

Health Management Goals

2009-01-05T22:33:00.002-06:00

One area of 2009 Resolutions has to do with the management of my health. As some of you know I was diagnosed with diabetes in June of last year. For a couple of months, I did fine and followed the food plan and took my blood sugar twice a day just like I was supposed to do. Then I got an attitude of rebellion and thought I don't want to live like this for the rest of my life. Shame on me! God has allowed this disease in my life and I must be a good witness for Him as I deal with it.

Therefore, I resolve:

1) Do my blood sugar readings 2x a day
2) Take my prescribed medicines without fail
3) Stick to my carb limits
4) Keep a written record of what I eat each day
5) Significantly reduce the consumption of diet drinks

On another note...I don't usually watch much t.v. but Lifetime started a new series called "Diet Tribe." I thought it was quite interesting and I think I'll watch it again.

Happy 2009!

2009-01-02T18:00:00.004-06:00

Greetings! I hope you all still remember me after my extended break. Things here have been the usual busy, busy, busy. But next week, as we get back into the routine of school (and everyone else gets back to school) our days should return to a more manageable pace.

Resolutions anyone? I've made a few but they all relate to a general theme. So without further adieu.....2009 is my year for "Growing in Self Discipline"... yep, that's it. Sounds inspiring doesn't it? Now I have some specific goals in various areas like Bible study, health, household and financial management. Believe it or not, I've already had some obstacles stand up and rear their ugly heads... and it's only day 2 of the new year. That hardly seems fair now does it?

But should I cry and whine about it...yeah, that will really accomplish what I hope. So nothing to do but turn it over to the One who handles things much better than I ever could.

Did everyone have a blessed Christmas? I certainly hope so. Although we didn't get in our usual celebrations because Mr. B's father was in the hospital on Christmas day with an infection in his leg, we had our moments that were joy filled. My favorite was on Christmas eve and Christmas morning with the immediate family and my mom. Now favorite gifts:

A subscription to Hobby Farm Home

A handmade journal from my daughter

The DVD of Little Women from 1974? So cute...but I'd completely forgotten that William Shatner was Professor Bhaer! (it's the best acting, I've ever seen from him)

But the best one was from my husband...he decorated a mason jar and put $200 inside to start my savings for a Bosch Universal Mixer and Grain Mill...isn't that the sweetest? He saved $20 out of his allowance for weeks and weeks...I feel so loved! (I would have felt loved without a present but for him to sacrifice for me...I don't deserve it!)

How about you...I would love to hear about your special gifts and/or your resolutions.

Are you all as busy

2008-12-17T23:20:00.002-06:00

as I am? The days are going by in a whirl full of activity. This is my busy gift giving week and I'm accomplishing everything I need to by the skin of my teeth. Despite my best intentions to get Christmas cards out, it doesn't look like that will get done. I'm still crafting some gifts and it remains to be seen whether I'll have to make a mad dash out to the stores if I fail to get things done.

But I find my mind wandering to the New Year and what I hope the coming year will bring. I spent a few minutes last evening thinking about some things I would like to see take a different direction and in less than ten minutes I had a page full of notes! I've always had to think long and hard and many times I still had no ideas but I guess the Lord gave me a few moments of clarity and direction.

I've decided to take an announced blogging break until after the new year to concentrate on my family. So I wish each of you, dear bloggy friends, a blessed celebration of our Saviour's birth with your loved ones...many happy blessings to you all.

I'm tired!

2008-12-08T21:44:00.003-06:00

What a weekend. A friend and I hosted a Victorian tea and Christmas Crafting party and I think I ended up carting half my kitchen over to her house. Let's just put it this way...I have lots of things to put up.

On Sunday, Darcy and Brad began decorating the tree so that meant lugging a bunch of things upstairs from the basement...uggh! It's only halfway done at this point.

Today, I celebrated my friend's birthday with her. Came home and filled out insurance and cafeteria plan papers for my husband's work...that was an arduous task in itself. When that was complete, Darcy and I headed back out to make a dent in the rest of our Christmas shopping...almost done with the exception of a few gift cards.

I was going to come home and tackle my mess that resulted from the weekend activities but decided a good night's rest would be better!

I found a solution!

2008-12-04T08:54:00.004-06:00

I've always had a problem with wrapping paper supplies taking up too much room and just never staying organized. This year I happened on a solution. I bought clear garment bags at Target (2 for $5). I placed all of my Christmas wrapping paper, ribbon, gift bags, tape and scissors inside and !voila! everything is in one place, portable and using up vertical space not the more valuable horizontal space.

The only thing left is to enforce the new rule...put everything back once you've finished wrapping MY Christmas presents.

Did ya hear?

2008-12-03T08:14:00.003-06:00

There's a new Bible version coming out?

Oh the blasphemy!

Okay, I'll begin sacrificing...

2008-12-02T08:38:00.002-06:00

as her husband suggested when she does.

HaHa and LOL...I think I'm safe!

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

2008-11-25T22:24:00.003-06:00

Since it doesn't appear that I'm going to be able to post anytime soon, I thought I would pop on here to get my Thanksgiving greetings to all of you. Have a wonderful, blessed time with your loved ones.

A Crochet Interlude

2008-11-18T22:09:00.003-06:00

Taking a small break from the kitchen organizing and Darcy's room redo to try a new pattern...a Christmas stocking! What do you think?

Here's the progress so far

2008-11-14T23:00:00.012-06:00

This is my breakfast prep area.

Above the breakfast prep area is my breakfast supplies like coffee and tea and all their flavorings and some breakfast bars and other drinks like Kool Aid.

This is a small cabinet above my stove and microwave where I keep my Pyrex bowls and drink pitchers.

This is 2 of 3 cabinets in a corner to the left of the stove that holds some canned goods and side dish ingredients.

This is the third cabinet where I keep canned soup and canned meats.

This is an odd shaped cabinet between my stove and my sink area...and the new home for all of my bakeware and roasters.

This is the meal prep area which has the three corner cabinets above and the bakeware cabinet below.

This is an awkward terrace above my kitchen sink...now I can look at all of my pretty mixing bowls while I'm doing dishes.

This is my baking supply area and contains mixes, chips and nuts, and cocoa, salt, baking powder and soda, vanilla and molasses.

This is the snack cabinet.

This is my canister cabinet...I love not having them on the countertops...a lot less cluttered.

That's the progress so far and things are working better already. It's not too late to join in on this project. Can't wait to see some of your photos. Have a great weekend.

Switchin' the Kitchen

2008-11-11T23:27:00.002-06:00

I've been busy since Saturday trying to makeover my dysfunctional kitchen...things were just arranged weird. So I thought about how I could arrange it better so I could be more efficient with all the extra cooking coming up during the holiday season. I should be ready to do some reveals tomorrow and then I thought why not challenge my blog friends to do the same and then we could all celebrate with each other. It's easy...think about what bugs you about your kitchen and then come up with a solution and implement it and then share it with the rest of us by the end of the week. Now if you are already organized you can participate too...just share how you arranged and now maintain your tidy heart of the home. Come on and join in on the fun. We can inspire each other!

Here's what I'm praying...

2008-11-06T17:19:00.003-06:00

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

Christians in our nation must pray...even if we don't feel like praying. We must pray for our leaders that their hearts will turn towards God. He can change their hearts of stone into hearts of flesh.

I was quite disappointed with the results of the election but I set a time limit for my depression...24 hours. It's over and I must turn my focus to my true Sovereign. Our commitment to Him may be tested in the days to come, but let us all purpose to remain faithful.

Well, whatever the outcome...

2008-11-04T17:40:00.002-06:00

is for the election tonight, God is still on His throne. It's a shame that half of the populace will be gloating and the other half mourning. I pray for whoever is elected president of our country that his heart will be seeking God's will.

The promised pictures...

2008-10-28T20:45:00.002-05:00

of my little girl and her date for the homecoming dance. I thought they looked so sweet together.

I'm off to...

2008-10-24T09:51:00.002-05:00

our church's Women's Retreat which will be held Here. My room assignment will be the Frontier Trails Suite which I'll share with another lady. I'll take lots of pictures to share with you next week and also update you on what I bought at Victorian Trading Company yesterday.

Guess where...

2008-10-22T21:24:00.001-05:00

I get to go tomorrow? HERE! I'm so excited!

The Cheerio Incident

2008-10-21T21:21:00.003-05:00

A romantic weekend trip to Branson, Mo. The weather was beautiful. The train ride was fun. The visits to the nature centers were educational and fascinating. The Titanic Museum was great...I survived but Mr. B didn't (you are assigned passenger names as you enter) and we even kissed at the top of the grand staircase. Then came the Sunday morning incident. The breakfast room at the hotel was crowded...not a table available, so we got our food and took it back to our room. We were having delightful conversation as we dined and I was happily munching on my Cheerios when an unexpected sneeze came upon me and....

.
.
.
.
.
.
you can guess can't you? Yes, I blew my soggy, masticated Cheerios all over my dear husband...they were in his hair, on his face, sticking to his glasses, even plastered on the wall behind him. He just looked at me with the oddest expression of amazement that this had just happened to him. I didn't mean to laugh because I felt really, really bad about it but fortunately for me he was soon laughing too...and the laughter continued all the way home. So I guess I made our 20th anniversary trip at least memorable.

Some things that took place...

2008-10-20T22:59:00.002-05:00

while I was away:
1) I had another birthday...it's okay...I don't mind getting older.
2) My inlaws celebrated their 54th anniversary
3) My daughter went to a dance (I promise a picture later this week!)
4) My husband and I took a weekend trip to Branson, MO which had a very interesting but embarassing moment for me (another post this week!)
5) Lots of flower bed/yard clean up
6) Lots of crocheting (starting those Christmas presents)
7) Some online Christmas shopping
8) Lots of Bible study to keep up with the two ladies groups I'm involved with

It sure doesn't look like a lot when you write it down but everyday was superbusy.

Getting ready for my return

2008-10-17T10:25:00.003-05:00

I've been away long enough...good news blogging hasn't been my problem. Time management and lack of discipline and lack of delegation has been my problem. Yes there are still undone projects and hectic schedules but that's just the season my life is in and I just need to accept that and quit whining.

So the plan is, I will return to regular blogging on Monday and I look forward to catching up with all my blogging buddies to see what has been going on in your lives. Blessings to all.

I need a little time

2008-09-24T11:58:00.002-05:00

I haven't been very faithful here lately...In blogging and in real life. The truth is I'm a little bit overwhelmed and I need to take a step back, reevaluate some priorities and get back to the routines that help keep our lives and our home running smoothly.

So I'll be taking off for the next 2-3 weeks until I feel on top of things again. Hope you all understand!

Yard Sale Bargains

2008-09-18T15:40:00.004-05:00

Went with my beloved mother in law to neighborhood yard sales. Best bargain was this book:

This tome of inspiration cost me a measly two bits (i.e. a quarter). I also got: a quilt, a tablerunner, material, sunglasses, a lovely light fixture for Darcy's room re do, an ipod armband carrier for when I go to the gym, a picture frame for a future crochet name, a favorite framed print and a hat. I would say for $20 it was a grand morning of enthusiastic bargain hunting!

Bible Study started back up

2008-09-16T17:30:00.002-05:00

The ladies and I started our fall Bible study up last night. This session we are going through First and Second Corinthians. Chapters 1 through 3 of First Corinthians were last night. The main themes were church unity and worldly wisdom versus Godly wisdom. The main thing I took away: I'd rather pursue Godly wisdom than worldly wisdom any day of the week!

1st Corinthians 3:18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.

I'd rather be a fool in the world's eyes than in God's.

Friday already?

2008-09-12T20:56:00.002-05:00

I can't even tell you how I spent my week because all the days blended together and before I knew it, it was Friday. I do recall taking some naps because with the gray and rainy weather for the better part of the week, my body was sent into hibernation mode. I have been watching a lot of cable news lately...probably too much...but the election and the weather is fascinating me. Join me in praying for both.

Darcy and I did make a nice memory yesterday...mother/daughter puddle jumping in the rain. We got a few strange looks...I guess it is a strange pasttime! :-p

Busy Weekend

2008-09-08T12:55:00.004-05:00

Our weekend was non stop activity.

Saturday started off with a Women's Ministry yearly planning meeting. All the leaders of our women's ministries met and shared what happened in their ministries during the year and what their plans are for the upcoming year. I'm privileged to serve with many beautiful ladies who truly love the Lord and long for others to experience the blessings of serving a gracious and merciful Lord. The meeting got me to thinking...I need to evaluate from time to time where I'm at in my Christian duties, wifely duties and motherly duties. I tend to just drift along without focus and without purpose and hardly making any progress on the things I hope to do.

After the meeting, my husband and I went to lunch and ran our errands. We have gotten to the point that we do these things together and I just so enjoy it. When I got home, I had to get really busy. I had two birthday gifts, a baby gift and a wedding gift to get ready for Sunday. The wedding gift took the most time because I had to frame it but it finally got done and here's a peek for you!

In Sunday School we began a study that will take us through 1st and 2nd Samuel. Our sermon yesterday was on the influence of grandparents. I guess I never realized how much the Scriptures have to say about this topic but our pastor took us through several and it made me to resolve to be a grandparent who points my grandchildren to Christ.

After church I went to lunch with a friend of mine from church and we had a delightful time chatting about many topics. I so enjoy the company of like minded women. We then went to the bridal shower. I get to feeling so nostalgic when I attend such events because it takes me back to the time when I was a young bride to be. I thought I knew everything and in actuality I knew nothing about being a good wife. But I guess being a good wife and the process of becoming one with your husband is something each woman needs to learn for herself. And how blessed young ladies are today because there are so many resources nowadays. Sometimes I wish for my husband's sake that I had learned such things much sooner than I did.

Next up was evening church activities. My son talked me into playing sand volleyball. The only problem was, I was still wearing the dress I wore to church that morning. Luckily, nothing embarrassing happened and I did make a couple of good plays.

Finally, it was time to come home...thank goodness, I was exhausted. We had supper and then I went to bed at 8:30 pm.

A family that pumps...

2008-09-04T18:22:00.002-05:00

photo found at www.astorpe.co.uk

iron together, stays together...right? The children and I joined a gym today. Darcy needs to earn a P.E. credit in school this year and hey, let's be honest...I need to set a better example for them in exercising. We managed a one hour workout today, 30 minutes of cardio and 30 minutes of weight lifting. Our focus today was on arm exercises. Now for another confession, my arms feel like jelly tonight!

On the way to the gym Brad said, "I want a Bowflex body!" I told him "Well, that's a nice goal...I just don't know too many people who achieve it."

On the way home Darcy said "Exercising is evil." Ahhh...one delicate flower spawns another because in my heart, I know it's necessary but I really do hate it!

Some more crochets

2008-09-01T18:52:00.005-05:00

A sweater for someone...I don't know who...I just wanted to give the pattern a try.

A baby blanket for a lady at church who had her little boy last week.

On a personal note, my blog friend
Mindy honored me with this award.

Thank you Mindy...this was very sweet of you! If you all haven't been visiting Mindy's blog, you need to...she's very inspiring!

Hope you all had a lovely weekend.

Messed up bigtime...

2008-08-28T22:19:00.003-05:00

and feeling totally humbled. Let me explain.

One of my dogs thinks he's a cat. He's long and sleek, he's a loner, he arches his back when you pet him, he licks his paws and he plays with yarn. This last characteristic is what started my regression into an out of control potty mouth woman. I've spent weeks organizing my basement and setting up a wall of yarn. I'm an avid crocheter so I keep a lot of yarn on hand. As I see special yarns on sale, I buy skeins that normally I can't afford. So to say I have quite an impressive stash would be an understatement. Now I haven't been down to the basement for a few days but my husband broke the news that the dog had gotten onto the bookshelves that held my yarn and pulled several skeins off the shelves and had fun. I rushed downstairs and I couldn't believe my eyes...approximately 10 skeins of yarn strung over half of the basement. How could one dog do so much damage? And this is the point I messed up...I let the curse words fly uncontrollably for about a minute... and then I saw my daughter's face...the tears and disappointment in her eyes... that her mother who is always and forever holding up the standards of conduct of a good Christian to her, conveniently indulging her rage and letting her "old" woman come out with a vengeance, I was immediately convicted and humbled. Satan had a servant today...me. I thought I was long past such a stumbling in my walk but apparently I am not. Darcy and I prayed together and I felt somewhat better...I spent some more time reading the Word and felt some more conviction. I think I have been somewhat complacent about my witness as of late and because I wasn't as close as I should have been, I fell. The good news is, God's mercies are new every morning and I'm so glad because the way I feel tonight is awful.

Unexpected blessings

2008-08-26T13:23:00.002-05:00

Mr. B and I celebrate 20 years of marriage tomorrow. We weren't going to make too big of a deal about it, just exchanging cards but I guess God has other ideas. Late last week, a family friend handed me an envelope with a restaurant gift card and movie gift certificates. Then today, we received a card in the mail with $200 in it from a lady we know who lost her husband almost a year ago. God is so good...how He prompts hearts to bless others is a mystery I shall never understand. I am quite overwhelmed with His goodness and others generosity to me and my family (wiping away tears of joy!)

Baby Gifts

2008-08-25T22:43:00.003-05:00

Baby Beanie...pattern found on the Lion Brand site

Baby Mary Janes

Although, either of these would stand alone as a nice baby gift, I decided to pair them up because afterall...a well dressed young lady's hat always matches her shoes!

Some recent acquistions

2008-08-22T18:00:00.005-05:00

My favorite time around our little town is in August. Three of the biggest churches have their rummage sales then. Here are two items that I got this year:

Fiesta salt and pepper shakers...25 cents for the pair.

A Crabtree and Evelyn tin that has become snack storage. It may be hard to tell but there are all kinds of farm scenes around the tin as well. This one set me back 50 cents.

Darcy and I have also been making some runs to the nearby kitchen store. On our last visit, I could not resist these beautiful handmade cannister scoops.

We have a jam packed weekend planned...a ladies brunch, two birthday parties, a fundraiser and a back to school bash. Not a second to spare this weekend!

Oh Hallmark...

2008-08-21T10:10:00.002-05:00

how could you do this?

Is it just me or do we see the battle lines between good and evil being drawn so clearly in more and more areas on a daily basis?

Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. 3rd John 1:11

Times must be getting rough...

2008-08-20T10:12:00.002-05:00

over the last three months or so, our family has noticed that two or three different people stop by every week and go through our trash to scavenge for useful items. At first, I was worried it might be people who wanted to steal our identity but it seems instead they want things like old electrical wire and broken furniture and appliances. If they only knew me in real life....if it's out in our trash, it really doesn't have much of a life left...I'm a champion packrat.

Uhh...this makes me uncomfortable

2008-08-18T16:11:00.002-05:00

"This is above my paygrade." BHO uttered this Saturday night in response to the question on when civil rights are available to people. Really, sir...it is not above your paygrade...you are applying for the highest position in our country and because you have sold yourself to special interest groups who make a business of killing babies you have closed your eyes to God's truth on the matter:

Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, [and] I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Jeremiah 1:5

Abortion kills those that God already knows and I'm not afraid to say it and my paygrade is zip, zilch, nada!

Where'd my week go?

2008-08-16T22:17:00.003-05:00

Once again, my week totally got away from me. Little errands keep popping up...which put me behind on housework...and with school on top, I just haven't been on the computer at all.

I've also been a little crochet obsessed this week trying to see what might work as Christmas gifts, so I'm trying out several patterns.

Hopefully, I'll be posting more this next week. Blessings to all!

Crochet hat/scarf combo

2008-08-12T20:40:00.003-05:00

front view
back/side view

I enjoyed this pattern...very easy and I was able to complete it in my spare time during the evenings in less than a week. Darcy likes it too and wants one in red. I used Moda Dea Dream yarn...very soft!

Cute daughter pics

2008-08-06T19:06:00.002-05:00

My pretty daughter is working in a themed Vacation Bible School this week. I think the tropical look suits her!

School is going well...

2008-08-05T21:07:00.002-05:00

Two days into our new school year and things are going pretty well. Our first day was actually conducted at Grandma and Grandpa's house since our electricity was being fixed for the better part of the day. We are very much pleased with our new breaker box...it's better organized and now there are empty spaces in which we can expand as we add outlets.

We had a few glitches with Darcy's software but I believe everything is resolved now. She is taking Spanish this year and she actually has to record herself saying Spanish phrases and send them in for her teacher to listen to her pronunciation.

With the expense of the new electrical box, we have now entered pretty serious frugal mode as our checkbook recovers. I hope that I'm up to the challenge. Sometimes, I'm a little lazy and just spend money to avoid the work...like eating out when I should be cooking at home. I want to try and do better in this area.

It's been quite warm here this week and even in the house the temperature is hovering around 80 degrees. I tease my husband about being a delicate flower wilting in the heat. He's not very sympathetic because he loves the hot weather. I prefer the cold weather anyday.

I took Darcy and a friend shopping on Saturday to take advantage of the no sales tax weekend. I got a real kick out of observing the energy and excitement of the two girls as they tried on different outfits and discussed fashion. I would love to tap into that energy because shopping just makes me plain tired.

Well, that's about it. Blessings to you all.

It's a good thing...

2008-08-01T23:57:00.002-05:00

that I had started cleaning the basement because our electrical box has decided to go kaput. Mr. B has decided that we should upgrade and have a new one installed this next week. Believe me...I might have been more mortified than I am but there is still work to be done. I'm not sure, but is it possible to have all areas in a household organized at the same time???

Electrical work can be quite expensive we've found out...oh well, there goes our emergency fund. Setbacks come from time to time and that reminds us that in times of abundance, we need to set aside funds for those rainy days. Fortunately, we are coming to a time of year that we stay at home more and as a result we spend less going here and there.

Have a blessed weekend!

Starting school on Monday

2008-07-31T08:20:00.004-05:00

I am so excited for this coming year. I started working on the planning on Sunday night and finished Monday.

Brad will be in eighth grade. He'll be studying pre algebra(Saxon 1/2), literature(LLATL), spelling(Building Spelling Skills), vocabulary(Wordly Wise), handwriting, current events (God's World News), history(History of US series), geography(Usborne Internet Linked Encyclopedia), science(Alpha Omega Physical Science) and Bible (Books of Luke and Acts).

Darcy is starting her second year at Alpha Omega Academy which is based on the Switched On Schoolhouse curriculum. She'll be studying Geometry, English II, Biology, World History, Spanish I, Health and College Planning.

Our schedule is somewhat rigorous...we'll have a one week break at Thanksgiving and a three week break at Christmas and that's it...but we'll finish up in the first part of May which is something both of the children wanted after not finishing up this year until June. They both would rather start early and finish early as would I.

I find it a great privilege and responsibility to be a homeschooling mother. I've had a front row seat to witness as they have gained knowledge and contemplated new to them ideas. I've never had to ask "what did you learn in school today?" because I already knew the answer! I never had to undergo a daily separation of seven or eight hours without my children day after day. I love that God led our family to the homeschooling choice...it has been a source of great blessing to our family.

Did you know about this?

2008-07-29T09:34:00.002-05:00

Did you know that America has it's own Stonehenge? I sure didn't until I read this article today. Here are the "commandments" contained on this monument (my comments/reactions are underneath in italics):

1)Maintain humanity under 500,000,000 in perpetual balance with nature.
Considering there is over 6 billion people on the earth right now, who chooses who stays and who goes?

2)Guide reproduction wisely – improving fitness and diversity.
I guess those who are "pretty" enough should be the only ones having children. Ugly people shouldn't have such a privilege.

3)Unite humanity with a living new language.
Humanity did have a single language once...the tower of Babel changed all that!

4)Rule passion – faith – tradition – and all things with tempered reason.
Who decideds what tempered reason is? Does the majority of the 500 million (see #1) rule. Think over history and see how many times the majority has been wrong!

5)Protect people and nations with fair laws and just courts.
Sounds good and noble but to my knowledge there is only one Judge who is fair and just 100 % of the time.

6)Let all nations rule internally resolving external disputes in a world court.
Again, sounds good but it hasn't happened yet nor do I ever see it happening as long as fallible human beings are involved.

7)Avoid petty laws and useless officials.
Hey, considering my ultra conservative libertarian leanings as of late, I think this one shows some merit of consideration!

8)Balance personal rights with social duties.
Again...who sets the standard?

9)Prize truth – beauty – love – seeking harmony with the infinite.
I think I do prize truth, beauty and love in my own life. But do I seek harmony with the infinite? Hmmm, not sure what this means exactly. As far as I know, there is one infinite and timeless being...his name is God Almighty as described in the Holy Bible and yes I do seek peace and reconcilation with Him.

10)Be not a cancer on the Earth – leave room for nature – leave room for nature.
I think there is plenty of nature. In North America alone, I believe the latest statistic is less than 20% of North America is actually developed (someone correct me if I'm mistaken)...that means 80% nature vs. 20% human domain...that seems pretty good to me.

Overall, this is a free speech matter. This "stonehenge" sits on private property. I know I don't want anyone telling me what to do with property I own so I don't expect that I should be able to tell others what to do with property they own. As long as free speech is available to all, Christians included, people have the right to say what they want and I have the right to agree or disagree!

Card Making

2008-07-28T10:31:00.005-05:00

I did something really fun this weekend...I went to a card making/scrapbooking party with my sister in law. While there we got to make a couple of cards, which was good because I had "missed" a couple of family birthdays. I realized I had been missing doing creative things and I need the outlet from the necessary normal. So I'm evaluating my schedule and seeing where I can fit it some creative time. Meanwhile, here is a peek at the cards I made this weekend:

A birthday card for my brother

A birthday card for our nephew

A birthday card for my mom

We celebrated my mom's birthday on Sunday. I won't say which one because she might get miffed at me for being a blabber mouth!

I must get started on my duties, but I wish each of you a blessed start to your week.

The bank account...

2008-07-25T16:09:00.002-05:00

took a hit today in a major way today. It's the time of year when our annual house insurance premium is due, our term life insurance premiums for Mr. B and myself are due and insurance for one of the cars is due...all at the same time...AAAAGH! But God is so good and so faithful, the money is available. He convicted me a few years ago that I needed to figure out the weekly cost of such expenses and tuck them aside with each of my husband's paychecks. How do you do this you might be asking? Well, I'll explain my method in hopes that it may be an answer for some of you.

First take your annual bill and divide it by the number of paychecks your receive in a year (e.g. $1,000/52 = $19.23 cost per week)

Second, once you figured this for each of your annual bills, set this money aside as untouchable until the bill is due. Doing this helps you to see what is really leftover to live on. Currently, I do this for Christmas, all insurance premiums, annual real estate taxes, tuition payments and future college savings. After all is said and done, we set aside about 1/3-1/2 of each paycheck (depending on the number of hours my husband worked that week) to meet future expenses.

This can be difficult but I will say that it has always been worth doing. It was more difficult to get started but with a few years practice, we have it down to an exact science.

Other significant going ons this week:

My mother in law and I picked, shucked, cleaned, cooked and froze 58 quart size bags of sweet corn. Now we'll be able to enjoy the taste of sweet corn through the winter months. Yummy!

I'm also getting ready to plan our homeschool year next week because we are starting on August 4th this year.

The basement is still in progress and probably will be for a while. I was naive to think I could get it all done in one week. :-(

We are getting ready to renovate Miss Darcy's room...she's tired of the contemporary and wants to go Victorian in style.

So my weeks ahead will be busy ones! Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Blog under construction

2008-07-24T20:11:00.002-05:00

Thought things were looking a little dull and decided on a new look. Not quite done with all the changes but it's a start. Just trying to be a little more stylin like the rest of my blog friends!

My babies are home!

2008-07-23T13:34:00.000-05:00

Right where they belong. Of course they are already talking about going next year but it's too soon to be even considering that in my opinion. Things have been busy since they've been home...not a moment to spare for anything like blogging but I'm sure the dust will be settling by the end of the week and then I can give you a full update on everything! Until then, blessings to you all.

Day 3 with...

2008-07-16T21:49:00.000-05:00

no children. I've heard from Darcy but not a peep out of my son...I'm desolated!!! Darcy says he's fine and having fun but why wouldn't a boy call his mama?

On my cleaning out the basement, I'm afraid that at this point everything looks worse than when I started...ugh! I'm hoping things will start looking better by the end of the day Friday.

For tomorrow, I'm meeting up with my dearest and oldest friend for lunch and shopping.

Blessings to you all.

I'm kid free....

2008-07-14T22:32:00.000-05:00

and hating it. The children left bright and early this morning for one week of church camp. I was so at a loss of what to do with myself, I've been cleaning and organizing...which if I do this everyday while they are gone, my house will be the cleanest and most organized it's been in years.

I'm back...sort of

2008-07-09T00:43:00.000-05:00

Hello all! It's taken me a while to recover from the holiday. My children's schedules have kept me hopping and I fell behind on my domestic duties. So I spent much of today making a dent in what needed to be caught up on.

The holiday was good. Mr. B "passed the punk" and let the children along with their cousins do the night time fireworks display and they did a fantastic job. I did do the traditional "sparkler" dance (maybe next year, we'll do a youtube video!).

The rest of the week will be spent getting the children through ball tournaments and getting them packed for church camp next week...so if I don't blog much...that's why!

ETA: I forgot to turn on the comments...sorry!

Happy Independence Day!

2008-07-02T15:20:00.001-05:00

Here's wishing you each a happy and blessed Independence Day with your family and friends. Make some memories! I'll return to blogging next week.

Lady of Blessings

Training Your Eye

Long Distance Parenting Stinks!

I need to figure out who I am

But I'm SPECIAL

Always faithful...a tribute

On my mind

I guess I've got the wrong opinion!

The Last Time

I don't know if I am ready for this....

Finishing up Thanksgiving

Trying to be Thankful

Recommended Read

The ridiculous time of year

Oh, if I could only grasp this...

One of my defects...

Mote and beam issues

The Changes are still going on...

How are you going thru...

2009 - A Year of Change

Someone's Christmas present

Birthday gift for a friend

Good times and bad times....

Change is a coming...

It's been something...

I'm a soldier...

I'm so proud...

Oh really???

Well, I'm a lot disgusted

Wow...I haven't posted

I'm not sure...

A lot of work...

Busy Monday

This is for all....

A surprise!

Being such a mother...

News stories catching my eye

I have returned...

Still here...

Sowing...and Sewing

I can hardly stand...

Gardening on my mind

Well, where have I been?

Well, we got word...

Excited about progress

The Scoby grew...

There are no words...

Fleeing Temptation

Well, it's back to the drawing board...

Kitchen Experiments

I'm ashamed to admit...

A gift to myself

When we don't understand

Health Management Goals

Happy 2009!

Are you all as busy

I'm tired!

I found a solution!

Did ya hear?

Okay, I'll begin sacrificing...

Happy Thanksgiving to All!

A Crochet Interlude

Here's the progress so far

Switchin' the Kitchen

Here's what I'm praying...

Well, whatever the outcome...

The promised pictures...

I'm off to...

Guess where...

The Cheerio Incident

Some things that took place...

Getting ready for my return

I need a little time

Yard Sale Bargains

Bible Study started back up

Friday already?

Busy Weekend

A family that pumps...

Some more crochets

Messed up bigtime...