Where My Heart Is

Out of Sorts

2010-09-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Company Girls! It's nice to have coffee with friends :) In fact, last school year, I met a friend every Tuesday (or most of them) for a drink at Starbucks after the kids were dropped off. Those visits were so nice. We won't be able to do them regularly this year because I'm going to sub, but we are going to get together as often as we can. We met Tuesday and it was still early enough that it wasn't hot yet. So we sat outside...for 3 hours. For this fair-skinned lass, that spells sunburn. But that sunburn was worth it to visit with not 1, but 2 friends. Another friend showed up. The cool thing is that it seems as if we were an answer to prayer for her. She had asked God for some friends to visit with. And there we were! I love being an answer to prayer! And we had such a sweet visit.

I don't know why, but I am feeling out of sorts. I have since Monday, which was my birthday. My birthday itself was fine. I launched my Scentsy business that evening with an open house (didn't mention my bday to anyone). A dear friend brought me cake. She had emailed people behind my back to get them to come, but so many people are sick right now. The launch party was good and I felt extra special with my cake.

School is in full swing and the routine is nice. I went to the Volunteer Registration breakfast. Even if I sub, I should have time to volunteer at the school. I met the mother of another boy in my younger son's kindergarten class. Very nice lady.

So why do I feel out of sorts? I feel like we are on the verge of something. In a way, I feel sad. So I guess all I can do right now is to pray and wait for God to reveal what He wants in His time.

Until then, I'm going to count my blessings, for I am richly blessed with friends, family, my church family and so much more!

Oh and here's a funny...my older son was disappointed at church Wednesday night because he grabbed a chocolate chip cookie instead of a raisin one LOL That kid cracks me up!

Mom! He ate my...

2010-08-31T19:19:00.000-05:00

My younger son has a thing with certain foods. Let me back up. My older son will eat just about anything. Always has been like that.

Now, on to the younger son. Not so much. I think it's a texture thing. He loves yogurt and he loves fruit, but he will NOT eat yogurt with fruit in it. He can't stand the chunks. He's good until that first bit of fruit hits his mouth, then it's in the trash. His favorite foods are pancakes and mac-and-cheese. He doesn't care for anything spicy (pepperoni is considered spicy to him). He can't stand mint - too spicy. (Me? I love mint. If he didn't look so much like me, I'd almost swear he was someone else's LOL).

So the other night, I made meatloaf and broccoli for dinner. I had to remind my younger son that he does, indeed, like meatloaf. And after the first bite, he agreed (this happens every time I make meatloaf). So I leave for a few minutes and I hear the younger one screech at the older one. I ask what happened. Younger son was MAD at older son for stealing a bite of his broccoli. Yes, you read that right. He was ticked off. Both of my boys love broccoli. It just cracked me up. The kid won't eat a peppermint, but he is nine kinds of ticked if you touch his broccoli.

That's my chuckle for the day.

The boys, Isaiah, Revelation and what's that smell???

2010-08-27T08:56:00.002-05:00

Monday was the first day of school in our town. My oldest is in 4th grade. I can't believe that!! My youngest started kindergarten - that's even more difficult to believe!

I love this picture. I love how they are leaning into each other. I hope they always lean on each other when they need to.

I'm a day or two behind in my Bible-in-90-days reading program, but I can get caught up this weekend. I'm halfway through Isaiah. I love the last two verses of chapter 19 - how God redeems not only Israel, but Israel's enemies. Just absolutely love it. I start my precept class on the 2nd half of Isaiah in the next week or two (I really need to check on that).

We wrapped up part 3 of 4 of our Revelation precept on Wednesday. I can't wait to dig into part 4!!! I feel like I have a decent grasp of the timeline of events. Now I can't wait to work through prophecy in other books of the Bible. Yea!

As for the smell - it's a good one! I became an Independent Scentsy Consultant. They are safe alternatives to candles (no wicks, no flames, no fuss). I used to be a consultant for another direct sales company - even did pretty well with it (earned a trip to the Bahamas). But it just wasn't my thing. I never thought I'd go with another direct sales company. I've been using Scentsy products for a while and really love the smell. And I love the affordability. You can indulge without feeling guilty. I love that the home parties are very simple and no pressure at all. So I'm going to give it a shot! I'm really excited!

I hope everyone has a lovely Friday. I've missed doing the Friday Company Girl Coffees :)

Bad Blogger

2010-08-16T10:10:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry; I am not a good blogger. It comes and goes in spurts.

Today is my oldest brother's birthday. I'm the oldest. He is younger than me by 2 years. Then in a little over a month, the middle brother has a birthday. Mine is somewhere in between them. The baby? His birthday is in February. Had to be different.

I miss my brothers. The oldest and youngest live in Illinois. That's where my family moved when I graduated high school. Yes, the lifelong Texans moved north. Had to. My dad was transferred. Me? I stayed here to go to college. The middle brother is now in Virginia. Did I say I miss my brothers? I really do. I also miss being around my sisters-in-law. And I really miss my nieces and nephews. A lot! Thank you, Lord, for technology!

I am still working on the Bible in 90 Days program and I'm right on target! I am loving this! I wish I had done it sooner. I will definitely do it again and again.

School starts for my boys in 1 week. And a week after that, I go for substitute training. I'm going to be a sub for the district. I'm excited. Who knows where this road will lead?

Other than that, not much going on. Just hot and dry - typical August. Have a blessed day!

8 Down

2010-07-26T09:13:00.000-05:00

Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth...FINISHED!

I will finish 1 Samuel today and head into 2 Samuel. I am really loving reading the Bible in 90 days. Some things have better context than the Sunday school lessons give. Patterns are falling into place. Lessons are being learned. And God is using it to convict me. All of that is great!

Well, this is super short because I need to go read!

Leviticus, part 2

2010-07-15T13:14:00.001-05:00

I really enjoyed reading Leviticus. I was dreading it a little because of what I had heard from others. So I armed myself with my highlighter and set to it. What really jumped out at me at the end of Leviticus was how often the Lord said:

I am the Lord.

or:

I am the Lord, your God.

and a couple of times:

Be holy because I am holy.

First, I think Leviticus is important because it helps us understand Jewish culture and that will be important in understanding future passages.

Second, you can see how God is protecting His people from hurt or damage. Each rule is designed to protect them. He cares deeply.

But more than that, God is showing us that He is Lord. He is sovereign. He rules over all. And He is holy...He is giving them a way to have a relationship with Him by making themselves clean.

Leviticus

2010-07-12T10:29:00.001-05:00

I am finished with Genesis and Exodus and halfway through Leviticus.

I wrote earlier about the SOAP method. I'm putting that on the back burner and will give it a go the next time I read through the Bible.

Instead, I'm just highlighting passages that jump out at me.

For example, Leviticus 5:1 is highlighted:

If a person sins because he does not speak up when he hears a public charge to testify regarding something he has seen or learned about, he will be held responsible.

What I take from that is that we are to speak up for the truth.

Another verse highlighted is Leviticus 5:4:

Or if a person thoughtlessly takes an oath to do anything, whether good or evil - in any matter one might carelessly swear about - even though he is unaware of it, in any case when he learns of it he will be guilty.

In other words, take your words seriously. Be careful what you promise.

And Leviticus 10:3:

Moses then said to Aaron, "This is what the Lord spoke of when he said: 'Among those who approach me I will show myself holy; in the sight of all people I will be honored.'" Aaron remained silent.

Two of Aaron's sons (priests) were struck dead because they offered unauthorized fire before the Lord. God's commands are serious.

This is further than I've ever made in a reading-the-Bible program. I look forward to finding nuggets in other lesser-known/read books of the Bible.

SOAP

2010-07-08T14:31:00.000-05:00

What is SOAP? Good question. Here's a great synopsis. Since I am doing the 90-day Bible reading, I wanted it to be more than just a goal. I want God to use this to change me. So I am going to use the SOAP method.

It's funny. As I read, verses that you think should jump out and grab you, don't. You know, the ones you are familiar with from Sunday School or sermons. Oh, sometimes, they do, but not like some other verses.

I would like to share some of my SOAPs here. But a word to the wise...I am not a learned Bible scholar; just a mom working her way through the Bible and asking God to show me His heart. These are my thoughts and insights. I am open to people sharing theirs as well.

My Peach Tree...No Burning Bush, but....

2010-07-06T15:47:00.000-05:00

My peach tree is no burning bush, but I sense God's message all the same. Granted, it's not an audible voice, but it is a gentle tug on my heart.

Here is my peach tree:

It's not what you expected is it? When we moved into our house 6 years ago, it was a proper tree, all upright and proud. Then a few years ago, a spring storm blew through and I woke up to this:

This portion of the tree was on the ground. The other half was still standing tall. I was sure that it was dead. It had been battered and beaten by that storm. I noticed a couple of weeks after the storm that the leaves were all still green...and it was producing fruit! How odd and cool! And it's been that way since. It has changed because of the past storm, but it was now thriving.

Then, this spring, another storm blew through and this happened:

I wondered if that would be the end of my tree. Well, it wasn't. Two months later and it still has its fruit growing and ripening.

The lessons I've learned:

Battered and bruised by this world, we can still produce fruit.
God is in control. Even when we are at our lowest, He can bring forth fruit.
When we stand proud, we will be humbled.
God can take the most unfortunate circumstances and make it a blessing.

First Thoughts on 90 Days

2010-07-06T11:30:00.000-05:00

Well, I started strong! I've done 2 days of the 90 day reading schedule. I am excited for this!

I've tried the reading in a year thing and it just doesn't work. A year seems like a really long time. It seems too difficult to commit to something every single day for a year. I know, take it one day at a time. But still, it has always seemed like such a long road to travel.

This 90 day thing seems just right! Some say that it's not enough time to absorb deep meaning. Maybe not, but I believe my God is bigger than that. I will absorb the meaning He wants me to absorb during this first go. I'm doing other Bible studies for deeper meaning. Besides that, we can get something more each and every time we read a verse or passage. I plan on doing the 90-day reading many times. Each time, I'll discover new nuggets - just what my Lord wants me to see at the right time for me.

I love how God reiterates the covenant He made with Abraham with Isaac and then Jacob.

Lord, I pray for Your covering and Your protection over this group that is taking this journey. Protect us from the enemy. Open our eyes and our hearts to Your truth and let us absorb exactly what You want for each of us. Let it strengthen us and be a refuge. In Your Son's Holy Name I ask this.

Reading the Bible in 90 days

2010-07-05T09:21:00.000-05:00

I've never read the Bible straight through. It is something I have felt convicted about lately.

I came across this post this morning regarding this group doing that exact thing starting today. Join us!

I'll post weekly (or more often) with thoughts, questions and insights.

Long time, no see

2010-06-10T14:00:00.000-05:00

It has been a crazy month...but a great one!

The boys finished up the school year the last week of May. Cam starts kindergarten in the fall. Jim will be in 4th grade. They grow so fast!

My middle brother and his family were here for a visit. They arrived Friday, June 4th and they left early this morning. We had a wonderful time and are sad to see them go. We had a house full of people - my brother, his wife, their 2 children, her mother and her nephew from India, my mom and the 4 of us. My dad was here Friday through Monday morning.

Saturday we hit First Monday (a flea market) and the farmer's market. Then we took them to ride a horse. Sunday we went to visit my paternal grandmother. Monday we went to visit my maternal grandmother. There, my uncle (mom's younger brother) threw my older son a surprise mini-birthday party (his birthday was the next day). Tuesday we took them to the Fort Worth Zoo. Then we came home and made a mad dash for the real birthday party. Wednesday, we all went to the Fort Worth Stockyards.

We all wish they could have stayed longer. My older son became fast friends with my sister-in-law's nephew from India. They have plans to keep in touch through email. It was good to see her mother again. She's a lovely lady.

Coffee 5.7

2010-05-07T08:56:00.000-05:00

Welcome Company Girls!

What a week! I worked a double shift last weekend. I do overnight parties at the zoo. I arrive at about 5 pm and leave about 11 am the next day. I do get to sleep, usually about 6 hours of bad sleep. I did that Friday night and Saturday night. And I'm doing it again this weekend. The money will be nice!

I've been following the flood in Tennessee, the NYC attempted bombing and the oil spill, as well as the meltdown in Greece. Oh, and did you know that Iran now has a seat on the UN Commission on the Status of Women? Isn't that special.

On the homefront, we have 3 more weeks of school. Tuesday is my older son's field trip. I'm going to be a chaperone. Guess where we're going...the zoo LOL. And yesterday, all of the district's third graders went to the high school for a presentation by....the zoo LOL. He has a diorama due on the 19th. It's on the rainforest and must include all 4 layers with at least one animal in each layer. I think it's cool.

I am looking forward to summer. To kick things off, my middle brother and his family are coming for a visit from the 4th through the 10th of June. His wife is from India and her mom and nephew from India will also be with them. And of course, they'll have their two precious children. This aunt can't wait to see them! Since my older one's birthday falls that week, we are going to...the zoo LOL. I have free tickets and they'd all like to go and my boys are excited, so we'll go! Then that evening, I've invited family over for dinner and cake. Just an easy dinner of tacos - everything can be prepped in advance. I need to come up with some meals that can be either vegetarian or not. Sister-in-law's mom doesn't eat any meat. SIL and her nephew will eat chicken and turkey. I have plenty of ground turkey. I've got tacos that one night and I can do pasta with meatballs on the side on another night. I want to give them a taste of Texas and stay within their dietary restrictions.

Mother's Day is Sunday. I've just asked my husband to help the boys do some picking up while I'm working this weekend and I would be very happy with that as my gift :D I'm not a flowers and jewelry kind of girl. I'm happiest with a kiss and a hug (and maybe a meal at a restaurant). Do you have plans for Mother's Day? I've heard of some moms planting a special plant. Some get breakfast in bed. Some love chocolate. And there's nothing wrong with the bling if that's your thing.

I wish all of you a special Mother's Day! Whether you are a mother of your own child or a mentor, you are special!

I love the USA...too much to remain silent

2010-05-06T11:22:00.002-05:00

Check out this article by Michelle Malkin regarding some high school students wearing clothing with the American flag on it on May 5th (Cinco de Mayo - a holiday that isn't even really celebrated in Mexico).

Seriously? It's disrespectful for a citizen to wear something that has the flag of his own country on it while he or she is in their own country? Really?

Let me state this loud and clear: I am all for LEGAL immigration. It has nothing to do with the race or nationality of any individual. It has everything to do with people coming here and working to be a part of our culture. I enjoy people coming from other countries, becoming a part of our society and adding their rich traditions. I am not for people coming over here trying to make the USA into their country. Let me add that I also think that people that want to come here and be a part of this great country, we should let them!

It's kinda funny (not haha, but ironic) to me that Americans have the reputation that they do in other countries (rude American tourist), but we aren't supposed to think badly of anyone that comes here and refuses to go by our standards. I've traveled to other countries and have thoroughly enjoyed learning about other cultures. I know full well that if I were to ever move to another country, I would need to assimilate. Assimilation doesn't mean losing who you are or throwing beloved traditions out the window. It means taking on some of the traditions of your new home and embracing it.

Jan Brewer in her own words regarding the new immigration law in Arizona. And here is Arizona state senator Sylvia Allen in her own words.

I love my country. I really love the USA. I believe that we can do so much good in this world. And I am tired of being called names because I love my country. Or because I'm white. Or whatever reason.

I needed to get that off of my chest.

UPDATE: I am listening to one of the boys being interviewed on Mark Levin's show. Other students were wearing shirts with the Mexican flag and nothing was said to them. Some of those students said negative things to the students wearing US flags (who did not respond to the attacks)...and nothing was said or done to them. If the flag of the US is offensive to you, then maybe this isn't the place to be.

Dishwasher - Convenience or Not?

2010-05-05T16:41:00.000-05:00

I am considering getting rid of our dishwasher.

Hear me out...

My 87-year-old grandmother has never owned a dishwasher. She cooks 3 meals a day (always has). If she can survive, so can I.

I know that there are great dishwashers out there. Mine is not one of them. I basically have to wash all dishes before they go into the dishwasher. Talk about irony! If there are any crumbs or anything on a dish when it goes into the dishwasher, it will be there when it comes out.

I can probably handwash my dishes in the time it takes me to rinse and scrape them before loading the dishwasher. Plus, washing dishes would be a great character-builder for my sons. And it may give us time to talk if one of them is responsible for helping me each evening. That would be nice.

If I remove the dishwasher, I can use that space for storage. Rather than add a cabinet, I can just cover the space with pretty fabric on a tension rod. It would be a great place to keep potatoes (dark). I could also store some larger kitchen devices there (breadmaker, extra large Tupperware-type bowls). Or maybe I could create a shelf and put the microwave on top and storage on the bottom. Talk about freeing up counter space!

Honestly, the more I think about it, the more I want to get rid of it.

Am I crazy?

Sibling Differences...

2010-04-30T10:10:00.000-05:00

or "Did they really come from the same parents?"

Welcome, pull up a chair with your favorite beverage. I'm going to brag a little on my boys today if that is okay :) Thanks for letting me share!

I look at my two boys and it amazes me how different they are.

Look at them! They don't even look related! (Or at least I don't think they are). And their personalities are so very different. The older one (on the left) is easy-going. He's a people-pleaser. He's the first child that when a parent gets one like him as their first they think they are parenting experts (I knew better...remember, I had 3 brothers LOL). He is book-smart and interested in science and loves math. He reads voraciously. And he loves him some video games.

While he is more serious, he does love to have fun and goof off!

He also absolutely adores his daddy. My husband is a farrier (horseshoer). Both boys love to go with him when he works and we let them as much as we can. Here is the older one on a miniature horse (of a client of my husband). And with his own shoeing apron :)

He has always had the best smile! Along with it comes the best giggle in the world. My mom wishes she could bottle his giggle...it's so fun and contagious and you can't help but smile when you hear it.

The younger one is my charmer. He gets into all kinds of mischief (always has). When he first started crawling, we called him Dozer because he'd bulldoze his way through any stack you put up as an obstacle. He was not going to be stopped!

I think he just wanted to be where big brother was:

But how does this:

Turn into this:

He had decided to paint a closet wall. He was big on painting himself as well.

Look at that smile! I told you he's a charmer! And he's determined. This is how I found him one morning.

But look at this! It melts my mother heart. (He still sucks on his blankie to go to sleep). And he is asleep in the picture with the frog - done by him, not staged by us. The bandaid? I don't know. He insisted he had a boo boo.

But the following are my favorite. I am in love with their brotherly love. Yes, they still fight like brothers, but oh how they love each other! And I will do everything in my mommy power to encourage and nourish that bond.

yes both are in this bed...teehee

One of my favorites. Look how happy he is to have a brother!

Yes, the differences in siblings amaze me, but I am ever so thankful for that! I love the uniqueness of each of my boys. I love that the older one protects the younger and the younger adores the older. Oh Lord, may they forever be best of friends in this life. May they forever help and cherish and value and love and protect each other. Thank you for putting these special boys in my life.

Crazy Month (i.e. May)

2010-04-27T13:22:00.000-05:00

May just seems like a crazy month. The school year is winding down and summer is coming. The kids get antsy with anticipation. It's exciting (and exhausting).

The weather right now is gorgeous. The boys have been playing outside after school until I make them come in. It's great!

The older one (I really need nicknames for them) is taking his first TAKS test today (state assessment test). He'll do fine. He's done wonderfully on the practice tests and he is one smart cookie. I get to sub (as a volunteer) in a class on Thursday. They use teachers to administer the test. In the past, they've had subs take over the classrooms, but there is a budget shortfall. Many districts are facing the shortfall right now due to a state law that froze the amount the districts receive from the state. So, his school is asking parents to volunteer their time. I think it's a great way to help out and contribute. They run a background check and everything, so they do what is necessary to keep the kids safe. And they ask the teachers which parents to call. All that to say that I'm excited to do it.

The younger one has not wanted to go to Mother's Day Out because he says he doesn't want to take a nap. That child still needs a nap and he sleeps at school but not at home. One more month and then he'll be getting ready for kindergarten in the fall! Right now he's excited about kindergarten because he won't have to take a nap LOL.

I am working every weekend between now and Memorial Day. This coming weekend and the next, I'm working two overnight parties in a row (a Friday and a Saturday each weekend). It will be tiring, but the money will be nice! I really enjoy my job at the zoo. I am learning so much about the animals and I love getting to share that with kids. And I like the people I work with. If you are ever in the DFW area, you really should go to the Fort Worth Zoo. It's one of the top 5 in the country and has a great new exhibit - MOLA (Museum of Living Arts) which is a big, fancy herpetarium.

Okay, that's enough boring stuff for one day.

Trials

2010-04-20T15:06:00.000-05:00

This is what I have posted on my facebook account:

There is no coincidence...only providence. God is sovereign and He loves me! What happens to me is for my good and for His glory!

And I do believe that. I don't always feel that, but I believe it.

The ladies' retreat I attended this past weekend was on trials. We all have them. God says we'll have them....James 1:2 when you have trials. This reminded me of what my mom has told me. She became a Christian early in marriage (so did my dad). She said that when she did, everything seemed to go wrong. EVERYTHING. Ever feel that way? She was so discouraged that she wanted to quit Christianity. Ever felt like that? She didn't and she's a great witness to me now. She looks back and she knows that the enemy was trying to discourage her. She has a stronger faith as a result. That's the purpose of trials - to test and strengthen our faith. What we do with the trial is our choice. Do we choose to ignore God's hand in our lives and wander in the wilderness or do we choose to meet the trial head-on?

Debbie Dittrich was our speaker and she was fantastic! This woman has had some trials. She was open and honest and kind and funny and she wasn't afraid to say the TRUTH!

One story she told is a familiar one to many of us about the silversmith and refining silver. But she started a little further back. When mining precious metals, first the metals are picked out of the earth. Ever feel like you're being picked to death? Then the metal is sent down the hill where it is pulverized. Ever feel like you're being crushed? Then it is washed to remove as much dirt and such as possible. Once debris is removed, the silver is put into a pot and heated to a certain temperature. The dross floats to the top. The smith never leaves. He keeps scooping off the impurities. He knows the impurities are gone when he can see his reflection. I think that's a great analogy for trials.

She also reminded us of Christ in the garden at Gethsemane. He was under so much pressure that he was sweating blood. Our God knows what pressure is. He knows what it feels like. My God can relate to me. He was honest. In Matthew 26:38, He knew the trial that was coming and told Peter "My soul is deeply grieved, to the point of death." Be honest with God about how you feel. Jesus also asked for the pain to be removed. Matt 26:39 "...My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me..." It's okay to ask for the pain to be removed. But you can't stop there. The rest of what Jesus said is this, "yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt." He gave up His will for God. He was willing to endure the pain if it were God's will because He knew that the pain would result in a magnificent glorification of God.

There was just so much more that touched me. Trials make us mature. Trials make us wise. Faith will be rewarded! Romans 4:18-5:5; Galatians 6:9; 2nd Corinthians 4:16-17; 1st Corinthians 15:57-58; 2nd Chronicles 20: 12, 15, 17, 20.

Realize you will have trials - 1st Peter 4:12; 2nd Timothy 4:3-5; Acts 14:22
Recognize your enemy - Ephesians 6:12; 1st Peter 5:8; 2nd Corinthians 11:3; Revelations 12:10; John 8:44; John 10:10; Ephesians 6:11; Matthew 4:3
Resist your enemy by standing firm - 1st Peter 5:9 push back in word and deed
Resist your enemy by taking up the shield of faith and the sword of the spirit - Ephesians 6:13-17. Jesus resisted temptations in the desert by speaking God's Word out loud.
Run the race! Lay aside encumbrances. Hebrews 12:1; 1st Peter 5:7. Lay aside sin. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.

A few other notes I took:

Be in the strength of God John 15:5
How does the enemy work in my life? Recognize it and BE AWARE!
The enemy attacks with words designed to get me to doubt God.
You won't recognize the lies if you don't know the TRUTH.

God bless :)

Ready?

2010-04-16T08:08:00.000-05:00

Welcome Company Girls! Ready for another Friday Coffee? I am! I won't have much time today to read blogs, but I look forward to it in a couple of days!

Some things I am ready for; some not so much.

I am READY for my yard to be rid of weeds! So, I applied an herbicide yesterday. Hopefully that will save my hands a lot of pulling. Then, in a few weeks, I'll put out new grass seed and see what happens.

I am READY for my youngest to go to kindergarten. Well, in some ways I'm ready. I'm excited for him. His big brother (4 years older) told him that if he got scared, he could come find him. I had to explain why that wouldn't work. In some ways, I'm not ready. Or I should say, I'm not sure if he is ready. We'll work on some things this summer. And we'll see.

I am READY for the Ladies' Retreat tonight! Our women's ministry is doing an overnight retreat about an hour away and it was very inexpensive. I can't wait to see what God has in store for all of us!

I am READY to bring in money by being a substitute teacher.

I am NOT READY for my sister-in-law's mom and nephew to visit. My sister-in-law is from India, so they are travelling from India probably some time in June. At least I have about 6 weeks to whip this house into shape. It's a total disaster area and that is not an exaggeration. Baby steps, right? But I want to be rapture ready. If you have a moment, click on the link and share your opinion.

Well, I need to go pack for the retreat. I'll stop by the Company Girl blogs in a couple of days. Adios!

Rapture Ready?

2010-04-15T11:41:00.000-05:00

I am doing an Isaiah study on Wednesday mornings and a Revelation study on Wednesday nights. Both are precepts (and I'm not keeping up with both, but I'm learning a LOT). In the Isaiah study, we were talking about what is said about the last days ("in that day"). It was brought up that one of the ladies at church has her house "rapture ready." She has a framed sign in her living room that says "If we aren't here," followed by instructions for becoming a believer.

I thought, "Wow! That's a great concept!" We don't know if we are in the very last days, but we can always be prepared. Think about it. Our homes could very well become refuges in that troublesome time. Our homes could be a haven for some in a frightening world. How great would it be if our homes could be a witness after we are gone? I love it!

So, what do we do to make our homes "rapture ready?" I think it starts with having Bibles available. Maybe even a handwritten note in each Bible with key verses. What else?

Pulling Weeds

2010-04-09T06:00:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday! Grab a cup of your favorite drink and let's visit!

I love spring. Everything is waking up. It feels like coming out of a fog. I especially love the bluebonnets on the sides of the roads around here.

What I don't love are weeds. My yard is FULL of weeds. I mean there truly isn't any grass; it's all weeds. The worst are the sandburs. We call them stickers around here. And they are everywhere in my yard! My yard is about 3300 square feet of weeds.

I want my boys to be able to play outside. Can't do that with a yard FULL of stickers. It's too painful. So, I started to mow last week and noticed that there were a bunch of purple flowered weeds (among the blue-flowered weeds and yellow-flowered weeds). I figured out that they were the sandburs. I got around the yard one time with the mower and decided that it would be better to pull the weeds. So, I began.

Let's just say that there are several sermons in pulling weeds. Here is how God has been speaking to me:

Weeds must be dug out by the root or they will come back. Sounds like how we need to deal with sin in our lives.
It can feel overwhelming when finding a place to start. Just start.
The more you conquer, the more you want to conquer.
Sometimes, we need rest.
Weeds that come back were never really pulled in the first place, now were they?!
Pulling weeds can leave raw land - that's just ripe for green grass!
The longer you stay out, the more bare ground you expose; but the exposure is worth it to have a healthy yard.
You also expose yourself to the elements (think birds flying overhead). But even that's not a deterrent!

We have a wedding to attend out of town this weekend. I'm feeling very overwhelmed with what we need to accomplish in the next week. It seems like everything is happening at once. I have to guard against worry. That's the demon I'm fighting right now. It's in His hands. When I give up the worry, it's amazing how He works : ). I just need to get out of the way.

Kindergarten registration is Thursday. My younger son is going to kindergarten! I'm excited and a little anxious. I hope he's ready. He's an August baby and was a little behind on speech development. Worst case, he's not ready and we move to a different plan. I think it will be good for him, though.

Well, I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Check out this video...it will bless your heart.

Perfect Credit Score...

2010-04-07T15:55:00.000-05:00

This article is making my head spin! DH and I have been working to pay off our debt - completely. We follow Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University. Dave calls the FICO score an "I love debt" score because it measures debt.

Consequently, focusing on scores is only natural. "People are drawn to this subject because it allows them to measure something that they equate to financial health," says Jose Rivas, national education manager for Consumer Credit Counseling Service of San Francisco.

I don't consider debt to be financially healthy.

Dan Nainan, a professional comedian who constantly travels between New York and Los Angeles, has carefully built an 830 FICO score. Doing so enabled him to negotiate preferential terms with his premium reward card. "I was able to drop the annual fee for my $450 per year American Express card to $150!"

Wow! I save $450 per year by not having the card!

Want the very best vehicle loan available? Let your numbers do the talking. When Brenda Avadian, founder ofTheCaregiversVoice.com, out of Pearblossom, Calif., was applying for a car loan, her 849 score helped her secure top financing. "Saving thousands on interest charges is a tremendous motivator," says Avadian, who locked in 0 percent interest for five years. A loan with a 4 percent rate would have cost her an extra $3,200 on the same vehicle.

Pay cash for the car. Cars drop like a rock in value (all cars drop). Think of all of that interest saved. (Zero percent interest still has a finance charge built in).

At last check, marketing company president Paul Entin, from Bloomsbury N.J., holds a 990 VantageScore. For him, it's a matter of honor and integrity. "A high credit score indicates your name and your signature on a contract have meaning. It's an indicator of certainty ... of character. It would be difficult to trust someone with a poor credit rating to the same extent you can trust someone with a higher credit rating."

This statement makes me mad and sad at the same time. He's essentially saying that your character is tied to your credit score. Seriously? Dave Ramsey has no credit score. I guess that means he has no character according to this guy's world view.

"Every time someone runs my credit they say, 'Wow, I almost never see someone with credit that high,'" says Carrie Rocha, founder of pocketyourdollars.com in Minneapolis. She keeps it first-rate to preserve her autonomy. "As someone who got out of $50,000 in debt in less than three years, I take a lot of personal pride in my financial freedom." Though Rocha has no plans to borrow money again, "I have no barriers when it comes to employment, insurance or other areas of life where my credit score is used to assess the kind of risk I am."

To keep her score high, she must have some sort of debt - even if it is a card she pays off monthly. Remember, a credit score measures debt. If she no longer had debt, her score would eventually drop to zero. As far as employment, a simple explanation about your score (and your plan to remain debt-free) should suffice. And I get insurance without a great score. We have health, auto, life and home insurance.

I'm going to stick to my plan - no more debt. I don't want to worry about whether or not I missed a deadline. I don't want to worry if something happens to our income and we get stuck with bills we can't pay. The borrower is slave to the lender. My personal experience bears this out. I'm tired of being a slave. I want my freedom!!!

Oh my, What a performance!

2010-04-02T15:00:00.000-05:00

I love Revelation Song. Just love it. That song goes deep into my soul.

This performance moved me to tears. It's just incredible!

I LOVE Easter music!

2010-04-02T10:49:00.005-05:00

This one gives me chills!

A favorite:

Another:

This song touches my heart in a wonderful way and I love this video to it:

And one more:

Coffee Friday April 2

2010-04-02T09:59:00.002-05:00

It's Friday already? Wow, this week has flown! Pull up a chair and grab a mug! I have tea and, well, tea. I've given up Dr Pepper. Sweet tea has temporarily taken its place.

I love Easter weekend! I came to know Christ on Easter weekend when I was 6.

We are going to Good Friday services tonight. One thing our church does tonight is to have everyone hammer the nails into the cross. It's very sobering. Good Friday is a difficult day, but thank God for Sunday! Praise God that Good Friday wasn't the end! He is risen! And that makes my heart sing!

This was a timely post for me. So many times, I tell myself that I'm not good enough. That I've done too much wrong in an area to be able to help others in that same area. What a lie that is! Thank you Lord for putting that post in my path!

Well, today is a half-day at school. Originally, it was a vacation day, but we have to make up a snow day, so the oldest is at school.

My house is such a wreck! I have so many little things to do that I feel paralyzed by it all. The silly thing is, none of it probably takes very long...if I just move into action! So, my goal for today is to get a little done on my office. And to put together all the outfits for Sunday. And work on my Bible studies. I think I'll start with the studies.

Have a great weekend!

Warning! Politics Ahead!

2010-04-01T13:37:00.000-05:00

I am into politics. I have very strong opinions and care very deeply about this country. That will show up in posts on here.

Here is a video I found that is hilarious. Thanks HillBuzz for sharing.

Pesach Sameach!

2010-03-29T21:06:00.000-05:00

Happy Passover!

Enjoy this great video - Hava Nagila, Texas Style

Coffee Friday March 26

2010-03-26T13:59:00.000-05:00

Welcome! Pull up a chair and grab a cup of your favorite beverage.

What a week! I love my political talk radio. Mark Davis, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Mark Levin and Laura Ingraham accompany me throughout my day. Mark is a local guy (who sometimes fills in for Rush) and is even-keeled. I love Rush's optimism and his sense of humor. Sean reminds me of what is good and true in this country. Mark fires me up. I love that man's passion! But the politics this week have worn me out and I was getting weary. So I turned them off for a few days and turned on the praise music. Just what my heart and soul needed.

I love that God put the Isaiah and Revelation precepts in my path at this time. There is nothing like studying God's word to put things into perspective. I wish I weren't so new to Bible study, but I am very glad that I'm there now.

This was the first week back to school after spring break for my older son. He's 8 and in 3rd grade and ADD. Getting him up and ready in the morning is like herding jello. He was tardy yesterday - completely his fault. So we are making him more responsible for his morning routine. I put together a simple chart and printed it out. So far, this morning went well. He set his alarm and was actually awake when Andy went to get him up. I want very much to find the right routines for him, routines that make sense to him and will become ingrained so that they are second nature. I want him to succeed. And I'm learning, as a parent, that his success depends upon his failures and how he deals with them. So my prayer is that God will let me know when to step in and when to step back and how to help and teach my son to handle his failures.

I work at the zoo this weekend. We have a grand new exhibit open called MOLA - Museum of Living Arts. It's a wonderful herpetarium and a great addition to the zoo.

Since my younger son starts kindergarten in the fall, I have applied to be a substitute in our school district. I was a math teacher in my life before kids. While I don't want to go back to teaching full time right now, I think subbing is right up my alley. I'm excited!

Easter is just a little over a week away and I'm excited! It's my favorite holiday! It's my favorite Holy Day.

A Little Slice of Heaven

2010-03-19T21:18:00.004-05:00

My inlaws have a ranch just 45 minutes west of us. They don't live there. It's a second property for them. They've been redoing the ranch house (as in taking it down to the slab and rebuilding). It's pretty much done.

The family and I packed up and headed there yesterday evening. No TV, no radio, no phone (not great cell service). 24 hours of unplugged...NICE!! We started with a campfire last night. With just a small sliver of a moon, we could see so many stars. Next time, we'll remember to bring the star cards so we can identify more constellations.

We slept in this morning until we were ready to get up (well, until the 4 year old was ready). Andy took the boys out for a long walk to see what they could see. Since I was behind on my Bible study, I stayed back for the absolute peace and quiet and worked on getting caught up. (Never get behind in a precept class! LOL)

They came back for lunch and played for a while, then headed up the mountain. They were specifically looking for tracks to report back on what kinds of animals were out and about. Granddad specifically is looking for deer and turkey (turkey season is around the corner). We had a wonderful day with no time constraints. We left around 6 and headed to the best little pizza spot in Texas. It's a hole in the wall joint in Mingus, TX. But my oh my, they have WONDERFUL pizza! You can easily founder yourself on that stuff!

That's how I spent the last 24 hours and I will definitely do it again soon! Spending time with the family was soothing and peaceful. (And next time, I'll remember the camera!)

Accountability

2010-03-14T18:28:00.001-05:00

This week is spring break and I have a LOT I need to do. It really could be done any time, but without the usual time constraints on my schedule, maybe this week is the best week to start! I'm going to put my to-do list here and cross off as items are accomplished. Monday, we are going to my grandmother's to spend the day. She is giving me her car (what an incredible blessing!), so now I'll have a reliable car!

1. ~~Schedule DH's work week~~
2. Put away laundry
3. Wash and put away dishes (and keep it that way)
4. Trim rose bushes and catalpa tree
5. Put away all toys (and PURGE)
6. Work out a written routine for oldest son (to hold him accountable in the morning and evening)
7. Organize coupons (and keep up with it)
8. Put away the papers on and around my desk
9. Organize my craft area
10. Sort through the boys' clothes (purge and donate)
11. Find a happy home for 3 pieces of furniture
12. Straighten and organize office area
13. Organize and purge cabinets above washer and dryer
14. Change out bed frame
15. Get rid of trash on the side of the house
16. Get all sticks and such in a pile for the next pickup
17. Mail Flat Stanley back to nephew
18. Take care of MOPS paperwork
19. Mail back Neilson scanner (not what it's cracked up to be)
20. Put together recipe cards to go with SIL's wedding gift

If I think of something else, I'll add it. Kind of overwhelming, but it will feel SO GOOD to do this stuff!

On a Journey

2010-03-12T17:12:00.002-06:00

I'm on a journey. Well, we all are, aren't we?

My journey involves my faith. I received a devotion yesterday from Proverbs 31 Ministries that really put my journey into focus. She wrote about exactly with what I struggle. She wrote how believing is much more than just acknowledging His death and resurrection. That's where I have been stuck.

I "became a Christian" at Easter time when I was 6 years old (30 years ago). I remember the day and making the decision. But so many times, I wander far away from my Father. I've been faithfully attending a church for over 3 years now. It's opening my eyes to just how far from Him I am. So far, in fact, that I rarely pray. How can I possibly have a relationship when I don't speak to the other person for ages at a time? Yesterday, I asked God to please keep me around long enough until my heart is right with Him. I meant it when I walked that aisle 30 years ago, but I didn't understand the depth of faith. I feel His tug on me. He speaks to me and His truths whisper to me at the times I most desperately need them. Sometimes they shout at me. I can feel His guiding hand when I allow it. So I know that I'm on the right road. But I don't want to just be on the right road. I want to be running toward my Father with abandon. He has a lot of work to do on me, and, frankly, my flesh is scared of where that will take me. I know wherever it is, He will be with me the entire way.

Am I alone in this journey?

Marriage Expectations

2010-03-10T15:23:00.010-06:00

I chat on a couple of boards. One is finance related, directed at people working toward and living a debt-free life. Often, threads will come up that deal with one partner in a marriage that is shouldering a majority of the burden while the other sticks his/her head in the sand.

What saddens me is the advice frequently given. It usually follows the line of "you're right, it's not fair, the other person needs to step up." While I don't disagree with that if that is the case, it seems as if the root of the problem is often overlooked. WHY is the other person sticking their head in the sand? And what can their spouse do to help them? Too often, the advice given is damaging to marriages. "Make them do their share" seems to be the mantra. If the spouse is being childish, then it's fair advice. But if there is an underlying problem that goes beyond, the best fix is to address the root cause. You can treat the symptoms or you can treat the disease.

What happened to marriage being a partnership? If my partner is floundering, do I throw a weight on them and watch them drown or do I do what I can to help him back on his feet? Is it "unfair" to expect me to shoulder even more burden while my partner is dealing with whatever is going on with him? Well, maybe in a schoolyard sense of fair and unfair. But in marriage, my role is to lift up my husband. His role is to lift me up.

Recently, my advice to a wife dealing with this was to pray for and love on her husband. Her husband has buried his head in the sand because, I believe, he feels like a failure for not providing properly for his family (or what he feels is properly). And I was called unfair because I was asking her to do more while her husband apparently didn't have to do anything. Except they forget that each person can only control their actions. This woman can choose to be a loving spouse to help her husband through a difficult time so that he becomes aware and can take responsibility, or she can choose to keep hounding him on her point because she is right. Which is better for marriage in the long-run?

No wonder there are so many divorces in this country. We have a perception that marriage should be "fair" all of the time. I am so glad that my parents didn't model that for me. Really, my heart is heavy because so many people just jump to assure her that she is right and that he needs to man up. Well, duh, that is all obvious. The point is, how do you fix that problem? By pointing fingers? Or with love and patience?

I'm not perfect in this. I've pointed my fair share of fingers. Love and patience is HARD. But I've discovered it works every time. I still have to fight my finger-pointing ways and work on the love and patience. I'm far from perfect...far, far, far.

Dead Car, Scentsy, Clean House and God

2010-03-05T09:00:00.001-06:00

Come in and grab a cup of your favorite! For me, it's a Dr Pepper this morning.

I sold my car yesterday. I had a 94 Ford Explorer. I bought it used in 1999 with 70,000 miles. When it left me, it had 217,480 miles. They paid me $250. It had many problems including an electrical problem that cropped up Wednesday night on the way home from church.

God is good! My grandmother recently moved in with my uncle and is giving me her car. It is in the repair shop as I write this, waiting on a part. So I'll be without a car for a week. And I think that's a good thing.

When talking to my friend last night, I told her about selling my car. She offered me the use of an extra car she has right now. I was wondering how I was going to get to Bible study on Wednesday since my husband works. Now I have a way.

This deal is a great reminder to me of God's timing and God's provision. It's not always what I expect or what I want, but it is always what I need and is always a great reminder of His love and care for me, even in the small things. Because, really, a car is a small thing in the grand scheme of life.

God speaks to me through my blog. Often, I sit down to write a post and it turns out as a lesson for me. I don't plan them to be deep or meaningful, but that's where God leads. And in that, I am humbled.

Well, I have an entire house to clean (okay, it's a small house and I'm not worried about certain rooms). I am having a Scentsy party tonight and the house is a disaster. And rather than work on it yesterday, I drove into Ft Worth to sell my car and then came home and we worked on a plumbing project (which we CONQUERED, by the way!). So, before 5 pm tonight, I need to finish my kitchen, dining room, living room and bathroom. The boys' bedroom and playroom just need to be straightened some. I'm not meticulously organizing a room in which several children will descend and ~~destroy~~ enjoy tonight. My room and the office won't be seen, so they have to wait. And I need to mix up a batch of vanilla chai tea mix to have on hand tonight.

One more thought, after today, my room will have priority in cleaning. It is sanctuary for my husband and me. I want him to have a relaxing place to chill. Eventually, I want to repaint. Right now, the walls are a deep red (think Aggie red - and I'm a Longhorn fan). I'd like to paint three walls brown and one wall sage green. I'm also going to paint some furniture a coordinating color (a large dresser and nightstand as well as the headboard). Or maybe I'll invest in a staple gun and recover some stuff. I'm feeling crafty after seeing some simple projects on blogs (check out the crafty blogs and house and home blogs on my blogroll).

Okay, I'm off on my crazy day and tomorrow I work (I do overnight parties at the FW Zoo).

Have a great and wonderful and blessed weekend!

Fitting In

2010-03-03T12:40:00.001-06:00

All my life, all I've ever wanted was to fit in. To belong. Sometimes I'm somewhat successful. Other times, I make a fool of myself. I wasn't always true to myself, and more importantly, to God. I joined a sorority in college to fit in, in spite of reservations that I had. I told myself certain things were okay just so I could have a group of friends. Except that always backfires.

This week, I've been struggling with feeling like I don't fit in. Along with wanting to fit in comes the self-pity. I'm not good enough for that group. I'm not thin enough. I'm not quiet enough. I'm not feminine enough. I'm not rich enough. I'm not "Christian" enough.

How sad is that ... that I allow myself to be put through the wringer based on lies.

God's been working on me this week. I am me. I am His creation. I'm not meant to be someone else. The only way the cycle will stop is if I take my eyes off of the world and focus on Him. While it will be painful at times, my job here is to let Him chisel me into an image of His Son. I belong - I belong to the most important group ever. I am His!

So Lord, that is my prayer. I ask for help in keeping my focus on You. I ask that You will continue Your work in me and allow me to be a shining light for You. I ask for perseverance, that You will sustain me when it's too hard for me on my own...and more than that, that it will never be me on my own.

The Power of God

2010-02-26T08:27:00.000-06:00

Please take a moment to go here and read this article. It is on a political site, but it is not a political article. It is very much about the power and grace of our Lord, with a request for prayer at the end. So, please, everyone visiting for coffee this morning, let's set our mugs down for just 2 minutes and pray for these dear souls.

Have a blessed day!

I love this!

2010-02-22T20:16:00.001-06:00

Snowmageddon - North Texas Style

2010-02-11T12:56:00.001-06:00

After the boys being home sick for 3 days, I was looking forward to getting back into our routine, but alas, it wasn't meant to be! This is the most snow I've ever seen accumulated here and I've lived in North Central Texas my entire life.

Here are some pics taken before noon and an hour later, it is still coming down strong.

More pictures from much later in the day:

And snow ice cream!!!

Menu Plan Monday - Feb 8th

2010-02-07T20:26:00.004-06:00

It's Menu Plan Monday at I'm An Organizing Junkie! I didn't use two of the meals I had planned last week, so I'm bringing them over this week. One night we went with pancakes by request of the kids. The other we had a $5 pizza. So here is my plan for this week:

Monday - Fiesta Burgers

Tuesday - Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Wednesday - Leftovers

Thursday - Chicken Noodle Soup

Friday - Baked Potato Bar

Saturday - $5 pizza (I work overnight that night at the zoo)

Sunday - Quiche - I'm going to add some veggies and maybe not the bacon

Chicken Noodle Soup

2010-02-07T20:15:00.001-06:00

One of the greatest comfort foods around. I love soup because you can make it your own. Add this, take out that. And I particularly love this classic.

1 TBS butter (I use smart balance)
1 1/2 cups carrots, chopped
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 lb uncooked chicken, cut into half-inch chunks
Basil
Oregano
Garlic
Salt
8 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups noodles

In large pot, saute' the carrots, onion and bell pepper in the butter. (I get the carrots started, then chop the onion and add it, then the bell pepper).

Season the chicken to taste with basil, oregano, garlic and salt. Put chicken in with vegetables and cook on medium heat until cooked through.

Add broth and noodles.

Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.

You can use pre-cooked chicken, but I think it gives it more flavor to cook the chicken with the veggies.

Let the Song Arise!

2010-02-07T16:01:00.002-06:00

I love how worship music just revs up my soul! I love singing along with only a voice that my Father could enjoy, just praising Him!

Here are some of my favorites:

How He Loves - Incredibly awesome!!! This is tied for my favorite right now. (It won't let me embed the video - please go listen!)

My other favorite right now:

Okay, I have 3 favorites:

This just puts a great big smile on my face:

And here's just an incredible testimonial:

What are your favorite worship songs?

What would your cardboard say?

Friday Goals

2010-02-05T07:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome Company Girls and whoever else may wander this way! All are welcome! I have hot vanilla chai tea from a lovely recipe I found here. Or if you prefer, I can make some fresh coffee. Have a seat and relax for a few.

I have so much to do around here. Please forgive the mess. In all honesty, it has been laziness on my part. If I can't do it all perfectly, then none of it tends to get done. That's not very useful is it? I am learning to focus on the small things (thank you Rachel Anne). All of those small things add up to big things ... and a cleaner house that provides sanctuary for my family.

Today's goal is to clean the living and dining rooms. Neither room is very big and I started this yesterday. So it's a doable project. I'm going to use my timer and do 15 minutes at a time. Who knows? Maybe I'll finish the kitchen as well. Oh, and I am going to make time to work on my Bible studies. I bit off a little more than I can chew, but I'm sticking with it. An Isaiah precept and a Revelation precept isn't too much, is it? I know that I'm not likely giving either the appropriate attention they deserve, but I am learning a lot! And I love Kay Arthur's approach!

So, I've set some lofty goals for today. I'm going to do my best to achieve them, 15 minutes at a time. And in my breaks, I look forward to having coffee with the other Company Girls. I pray that each of you has a truly blessed weekend!

15 Minutes at a Time

2010-02-04T11:43:00.000-06:00

I am embarrassed by the state of my house. I have never been a great housekeeper. It's not for lack of know-how. It's just plain laziness. It's hard to feel useful when your job is just to keep your house nice. Makes me wonder why I bothered with a college degree.

But I know better. My worth, my value lies solely on my God, my Savior. My head knows that. It's taking time to reach my heart. My mind knows what the word of God says, but the enemy knows my weakness. He knows I struggle with feeling worthy of what Jesus has done for me. You know what? He's right. I'm not worthy. If I were, I wouldn't need Jesus, now would I? Just as my children can't do anything to earn my love, I just love them, I can't do anything to earn God's love. He just loves me.

Funny, I started this post as a housekeeping thought.

I'm going to stick with the detour, though. Because I can't wrap my brain around the depth of God's love and that love put into action through Jesus, I struggle with thoughts about how I could even be saved. I doubt myself sometimes - am I playing or do I really believe? Then I pray. I pray for God to draw me nearer to Him. I pray that He will continue to change me. I know He is working in my heart. And I rely on my little mustard-seed of faith that I am His. You see, I accepted Him when I was 6 years old. I remember that day and I know that I meant it. But then I didn't grow. I didn't know that I needed to do anything else (not that further actions are needed for salvation, but for spiritual growth). And as I got older, I was intimidated by the Bible. I just didn't understand it. I didn't get how people understood what it said. Then I met and married my husband. He grew up Catholic and I grew up in the Baptist church. We have the same basic beliefs (or I couldn't have married him). So we spent years avoiding church or trying every denomination in sight. Honestly, I was afraid that it would be a permanent wedge between us.

Then my husband and I found a wonderful church...a church that teaches the Bible. A church that both my husband and I loved. And I got plugged in. I found some terrific ladies' Bible studies, including a precept class - 1 Thessalonians. I knew nothing about this book. It wasn't one of the "major" ones after all. But WOW! I am hooked on precept classes now. I am learning how to read and understand for myself (with the teaching of the Holy Spirit). After 1 Thessalonians was 2 Thessalonians. Now we are in the 2nd part of Revelation. And I'm doing Isaiah. The continuity of His Word is so completely reassuring.

Thank you Lord for my little faith. Please grow it and bring me closer to You. Show me the way. Let me be a light for You.

Well, this post certainly took a detour! The 15 minutes at a time was going to relate on how I'm finding my house again. But I think it can equally apply to how I'm finding my worth again. So as I set my timer for 15 minutes once or twice an hour, I'll remember that the baby steps on my house are similar to spiritual baby steps.

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

2010-02-02T09:36:00.000-06:00

This recipe comes to me from Ginamarie on Best of Boards. BoB is a resource for direct sales consultants (which I was once upon a time). One of the premium forums is a recipe forum and this recipe can be found there. It is wonderfully delicious!

3 lbs. Chicken Breast
½ cup Chicken Broth
¼ cup Flour
1 lb. Fresh Mushrooms (Quartered)
1 (14.5 oz) can of Whole Peeled Tomatoes (I do not drain the sauce - it all goes in)
2 Cloves of Garlic (Minced)
1 medium Onion (Chopped)
EVOO (2 tbs.)
Dried Basil (2 tbs.)
Dried Oregeno (2 tbs.)
Tyme (1 tbs)
Salt/Pepper to taste
Place chopped onions on bottom of crock pot. Layer chicken over onions. Add remaining ingredients, turn on low for 8 hours and enjoy when finished!

Do not worry about mixing anything as you layer the ingredients. All simmers and mixes beautifully as dinner cooks.

Menu Plan Monday - Feb 1st

2010-02-01T10:25:00.002-06:00

Happy Monday everyone! This is my weekly Menu Plan Monday post for OrgJunkie. You can check out other menu plans at their site.

Monday - Baked Potato Soup

Tuesday - Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup (didn't have this last week as planned)

Wednesday - Spaghetti

Thursday - Leftovers

Friday - Pinto Beans, Rice & Cornbread

Saturday - Fiesta Burgers

Sunday - Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

Fiesta Burgers

2010-02-01T09:59:00.003-06:00

Mix 1 lb ground beef with 1/4 cup salsa, 1 egg, 1 cup cracker or bread crumbs, some chopped onion, salt and pepper to taste.

Form 6 patties and brown in skillet.

Mix 1 can each cream of mushroom soup, ranch style beans, and chopped green chilies.

Pour over cooked patties in skillet, cover and heat over medium heat about 10 minutes.

Turn heat to low and top with cheese. Cover and heat until cheese is melted.

YUM!

Topsy-Turvy Week

2010-01-29T10:10:00.004-06:00

Not a bad week, just a crazy one! I guess that's to be expected when you have children.

We spent Sunday moving my grandmother. She was moving to a smaller place, so we inherited some furniture. One of the pieces is her Lane chest that she bought in 1947. She put a note in it that said, "To Melinda Sue; From Grandma; Love You." Yes, that note will stay in that chest :)

Monday, we moved all of the stuff into our house with the help of a friend. Nothing is where it's supposed to be. I haven't figure out yet what I want to do with all of it. My monitor was going out, so I checked prices online and headed out to Best Buy and grabbed a new one. I finally graduated out of a CRT!!!

Tuesday, I watched my best friend's boys in the evening. Our church does Apples of Gold. I went through it last spring - it was AWESOME!!! The ladies in my group will be forever special to me. My friend has a chance to go through it and I am happy to watch her boys so that she can have this incredible experience!

Tuesday night, after I went to bed, was a different story. I started feeling, well, bloated. I woke up feeling a worse. I woke up again with a bad pain on my right side, front and back. I was up most of the night. Turns out that it was very likely my gall bladder. I spoke to a nurse I know over the phone and that's her educated guess. Then I spoke to my best friend who had the same pain and it was her gall bladder. So I'm avoiding fatty foods. I've been wanting to lose weight. I think this is God giving me motivation.

Wednesday morning I usually go to Bible study. Since I was feeling yuck and hadn't slept, I stayed home. (The enemy really works hard to keep us from fellowship). We are studying the book of Isaiah. I'm really looking forward to it. Wednesday night, I go to a Bible study on Revelation. Both are precept classes, which I love!

Thursday was lazy. I needed that lazy day. My dear husband didn't mind that I went to a Moms' Night Out with my MOPS group. It was a blast! We did a game night and we each brought a reject gift. They were hilarious!

And today is Friday. I was supposed to work tonight. I am a counselor for overnight parties at the Fort Worth Zoo. The weather here is bad and supposed to get worse (as in possibly icy). The party cancelled, which I think was smart and responsible, so I have the evening off. I think tonight will be game night!

Oh, and I've been decided to be a substitute teacher starting this fall! My youngest enters kindergarten (which is all day here) and I've been thinking about what I want to do. I am a certified teacher and taught high school math for 4 years. I don't want to go back full time, but I think I'd really enjoy subbing. Who knows, maybe some day I'll go back full time.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and I look forward to spending coffee time at your blogs :)

Monday Menu Plan...on Tuesday

2010-01-26T11:53:00.002-06:00

I'm late! I do my menu plan on Sunday, but Sunday was spent moving my grandmother (which went really well). And I knew what I was going to do last night. Now I feel naked! I don't have a plan...yet! So here goes.

Monday - TexMex Chicken Soup
Tuesday - Hamburger Mac
Wednesday - leftovers
Thursday - Crockpot Chicken
Friday - Pizza
Saturday - Scrambled Eggs & Biscuits
Sunday - Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup

Aaaah, now I feel better!

Knives Giveaway!

2010-01-22T14:40:00.002-06:00

Check out this cool knife giveaway over at the Provident Woman. I hope one of us wins!

A Bittersweet Sunday

2010-01-22T09:26:00.001-06:00

This Sunday marks the end of an era for my family. My maternal grandmother is moving in with my uncle. She will no longer be living in the house that I knew for most of my life.

Both of my grandfathers are gone. Both of my grandmothers are still here (and I am blessed for that!). My father's mother was moved into a retirement center last year. That was also bittersweet. They had lived in the same house my entire life. I even lived there for 2 years during college (and they never asked for anything in return - truly a blessing). It's weird to not drive there when I go see her. But I am thrilled for her. She has so much to do at her new place. They have crafts and games (she loves to play 42). She stays busy and is happier than I've seen in forever. So I am thankful!

This coming Sunday is moving day for my other grandmother. Her eyesight is failing (macular degeneration) and it's becoming increasingly difficult for her to be on her own. Plus, she's in the country where it can be difficult for a rescue crew to find her house. And crime is on the rise in that area. She's also excited about moving. She won't be alone anymore. For that, I am really happy. I'll miss going to see her in that little country house, but I am thankful that she won't be alone and that she'll be well cared for.

I can still learn a lot from my grandmothers. They are from the Greatest Generation. I am blessed to have them in my life. And I'm doubly blessed that my boys will remember their great-grandmothers.

A funny story: My grandmother that we are helping move on Sunday was going to throw away her wedding clothes! My mom saw them in a black bag and suggested that she put them aside for me. I'm glad she did. I am going to have a quilt made from them :) I can't think of a lovelier keepsake.

Menu Planning - So How's That Working For Ya?

2010-01-22T09:07:00.000-06:00

I decided to start menu planning a few weeks ago. I've officially been doing it for 2 weeks. On Sunday, after I assess my pantry and the grocery sales, I sit down and work out a plan for the upcoming week (Monday through Sunday). I have started a list of main courses in different categories and work from there. I include 1 or 2 nights of leftovers.

The verdict? I love it!! I'm not so tempted to go out to eat! We were eating out way too frequently (I'm too ashamed to admit how often). We have cut out eating out in the past, but life would happen and we'd slide back into this bad habit. Cooking at home saves so much money compared to eating out. Plus the food just tastes better than fast food and is generally healthier than restaurant food (I work to control the salt and fat).

I think cooking at home is one of the best frugal tips. We really are saving a lot of money!

Meatloaf Italiano

2010-01-21T10:36:00.001-06:00

This is a variation of a recipe that my mom gave me. The original was the meatloaf we always had growing up - so yummy and moist! The big difference is that I deleted the brown sugar (not enough to matter) and substituted tomato sauce for paste and water.

1 lb ground beef (ground turkey also works very well)
1 cup fine soft bread crumbs
1 egg
1 chopped onion
1 chopped bell pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 TBS season salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp ground oregano
6 oz tomato sauce (use an 8 oz can and reserve the other 2 oz)

Place ground beef and bread crumbs in mixing bowl. Form a well in the center and add egg, onion, bell pepper and seasonings. Mix. Add tomato sauce and mix well. Pack mixture into loaf pan or small oval casserole. Bake at 400 for 35 to 45 minutes.

With the remaining tomato sauce, add a little garlic powder and oregano. Then spread on top the last 5 to 10 minutes of cooking.

NO KETCHUP ALLOWED!

Menu Plan Monday Jan 18

2010-01-18T14:13:00.003-06:00

Last week was my first week on menu-planning. It went well! We stuck to the original plan, which I know won't always happen. And it kept us from eating out (except for one lunch as a family). Progress! So to join the other menus for this week at Organizing Junkie, here is this week's menu:

Monday: Homemade Mac-n-Cheese
Tuesday: Leftovers (I need to clean out the fridge!)
Wednesday: Chicken Rice Casserole
Thursday: Chili-topped Baked Potatoes
Friday: Pancakes/breakfast
Saturday: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Sunday: Leftovers if we aren't still at my Grandma's

To get my boys into the deal, I asked them for ideas for the menu this week. Guess which two are theirs.

Grandma's Pancakes

2010-01-18T13:55:00.000-06:00

Growing up, when we had pancakes, we had these. I didn't even know pancakes came in a mix until I was much older.

Pancakes

1 cup flour
2 TBS sugar
1 TBS baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup milk
1 egg
2 TBS shortening (melted)

Mix dry ingredients. Add milk and egg. Mix in melted shortening. Cook on griddle at 450.

(I've left out the shortening and they are fine. You could substitute butter for the shortening.)

Mild Chili

2010-01-18T13:51:00.001-06:00

After scouring some recipe sites, I came up with this recipe. It's not spicy (so that my boys will eat it), but it is hearty!

Chili

Brown 2 lbs ground meat (beef, turkey, sausage - I usually do one hot sausage with 1 beef or turkey) with 1 chopped onion, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder and onion powder. This is all season to taste. I go heavier on the chili powder than the cumin. I just keep adding until it smells like chili.

Add 1 can diced tomatoes (undrained) and 2 cans of pinto or red beans (drained and rinsed - I prefer pintos).

Mix 3 TBS flour into 1 can beef broth and add to meat.

Simmer for an hour or so.

TexMex Chicken Soup

2010-01-18T13:47:00.000-06:00

I can't really call this Chicken Tortilla Soup because I don't put tortilla strips in it, but I do serve with tortilla chips if we have them!

1 bell pepper, chopped
1/2 medium onion, chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
olive oil
chicken broth
1 16-oz bag frozen black beans
1 16-oz bag frozen corn
1 lb chicken
cumin
chili powder
1 15-oz can diced tomatoes
1 8-oz can tomato sauce
chopped black olives

Sprinkle the chicken with cumin and chili powder. Bake at 425 for 20 minutes.

While the chicken is baking, chop the bell pepper and onion and mince the garlic. Saute' in olive oil in 5 qt pot for 5 minutes or so.

Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, black olives (about 1/2 a can chopped) and chicken broth (enough to make it as soupy as you'd like).

Cut up the chicken into small chunks and add. Simmer at least 30 minutes.

Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

An A+ Day with My Son

2010-01-16T23:01:00.001-06:00

I have two sons...one is 8 and the other is 4. This is about the younger son. We had a leisurely morning. Then the three of us met my DH for lunch. He took the two boys to his afternoon work appointment and then to Cabella's for some window-shopping, guy-style. It's been a relaxing evening.

Well, the younger son had a splinter in his finger and didn't want me to take it out. He showed it to me but didn't want me to touch it. He was afraid of the pain that might be there if I pulled it out. I asked him to let me see it and I promised that I wouldn't touch it. He was worried that I would go back on my word. So I worked with him until he let me see it. Then I pointed out that I kept my word and I had him put a bandaid on it (this was before dinner).

After the boys had their shower, he was sitting in my lap in his comfy jammies. I had grabbed nailclips to trim his nails and a pair of tweezers. The splinter needed to come out before it became infected or embedded. At first, he let me hold his hand. When he saw the tweezers, he froze with fear and pulled his hand away. I asked him if he wanted to be a big brave boy or if I needed Daddy to help hold him. He agreed to be brave...until he saw the tweezers again. So I set the tweezers down in order to get him to calm down. He admitted that he was scared. I replied, "You're scared." Then I calmed him down and asked him again if he wanted to be a brave boy. He said yes. So I had him look at an object in the opposite direction and talked to him while I quickly pulled the splinter out. He was so relieved that he cried with joy! He was so glad that it was gone and over and he didn't have to worry about it. He was so proud that he was brave. I reiterated that being brave means that you do something even when you are scared. and I pointed out that Mommy will always be truthful about things with him. I had him go tell Daddy how brave he was and could hear how happy he was with himself when he did.

How many times has God wanted me to be brave and do something scary and I didn't trust Him? If I ask my 4 year old to trust me, how much more can I trust my Heavenly Father? Infinitely! I need to remember this moment with my child so that I will have the courage to be brave when my Father asks of me something of which I'm afraid. FEAR - False Evidence Appearing Real.

Then, he had another moment that was great. He wrote the word "MOM" and he knew what he was writing. He asked me the other day to write "mommy." Instead, I had him hold the crayon while I wrote "MOM" and I said each letter as I wrote it. Of course, when he showed Daddy, Daddy was enthusiastic. And I was proud that he remembered! And he was thrilled that he had learned something.

How much more does our Heavenly Father cheer when we learn His ways and then act on them? So much more!

And finally, my younger son asks me if we can have secret passageways in our house for their Nerf wars. Of course my answer is no because it would mean cutting through walls. And it's a reminder to me that when my Heavenly Father says "No," there is a very good reason, even if I don't always know what that is.

Was the day perfect? Oh no, not by any stretch. But it won't be those parts that I remember. The ones written above are the memories.

Gratitude

2010-01-15T15:27:00.001-06:00

Sounds corny sometimes, doesn't it? Write down what your grateful for.

But there's something powerful in doing that. Your focus shifts away from yourself. And that is what we need to do in order to be what God intends for us. We can't serve others if our thoughts are self-centered. I'm very self-centered. I need to have my focus redirected.

So, here is what I'm grateful for today:

1) While my heart doesn't understand the tragedy in Haiti, I know God is going to work mightily through it.
2) My husband - he is a kind, dear soul and he puts me first. He is driven and passionate about his work. He is a wonderful, sweet father to our boys.

3) My oldest son - he is in the third grade and it is such a joy to see his tender heart and his love for others.
4) My youngest son - he is four and he is creative and fun! And he absolutely adores his big brother.

5) My parents - their love for their children (me and my three brothers) is wonderful! Their marriage is a great example for us to follow.
6) My church - the people there have servants' hearts. They love people no matter what. And they teach the Bible, no matter how difficult or unpopular that may be sometimes.
7) That we will be debt-free except the mortgage by the end of the year. (www.daveramsey.com)
8) That we in this country, in spite of our hard economic times, are richly and abundantly blessed.
9) For the roof over my head and the food in my pantry and clean, running water.
10) For my dear friends - too many to name, all very treasured.
11) For the wealth of information on the internet!!! I've learned so many things!

What are you grateful for today?

Veggies...YUM!

2010-01-14T15:01:00.001-06:00

On www.LifeasMOM.com, she asked everyone to share their favorite recipes for fixing veggies. My boys will eat a variety of veggies just steamed with a little butter and maybe a tich of salt.

Here is a favorite recipe of mine - Chili Roasted Sweet Potatoes
2 to 3 medium sweet potatoes
2 TBS olive oil
1 TBS sugar
1 tsp chili powder
coarse salt and ground pepper (can leave out salt)

Preheat oven to 425. Cut each potato lengthwise into 8 wedges. Half each wedge crosswise. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, sugar chili powder, up to 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper (You can toss them in a bowl or on a rimmed baking sheet). Arrange wedges on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast until potatoes are brown and tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.

This recipe was first shared by Candice at www.bestofboards.com in the Recipe forum. Best of Boards is a resource for consultants in direct sales businesses.

Sanctuary in my home

2010-01-11T13:02:00.005-06:00

I follow a blog, Home Sanctuary, that is currently working on developing a home maintenance plan and routine, step-by-step. Today was the first day. I made up a list of things I need to do in order to maintain a welcoming home. Now I need to assign a frequency to each task - daily, once a week, every other week, once a month, and not gonna happen are recommended frequencies (lol). I'm adding twice a week and every 2 to 3 months.

Here's my list:

Everyday

Vacuum Living and Dining Rooms

Sweep Kitchen

Pick Up

Make Beds

Laundry – 1 Load a Day

Get Ready For the Next Day

Dishes

Wipe Kitchen Counters

Bathroom Sinks

Dining Table

Twice a Week

Dust

Stovetop

Microwave

Dining Chairs

Take Out Trash/Recycling

File/Shred Paperwork

Groceries

Once a Week

Vacuum Bedrooms and Bathmats

Mop

Tidy Porches

Change Sheets

Fronts of Kitchen Appliances (Top of Fridge)

Kitchen Cabinets

Scrub Kitchen Sink

Water Plants

Clean Out Couch

Wipe Down Trash Cans

Cut/Organize Coupons

Toilets

Bathtubs

Vanity

Office Desk

Wipe Down Washer/Dryer

Yard Work

Menu Plan

Review Budget

Business Calls

Every Other Week

Windows/Windowsills

Once a Month

Baseboards

Wipe Down Walls/Doors

Clean Vents

Ceiling Fans

Change Air Filter

Purge

Pick Up Prescriptions

Every 2 to 3 Months

Change Oil in Car

Straighten Closets/Cabinets – front, bed, bath

One new habit

2010-01-11T09:51:00.005-06:00

In an effort to completely avoid eating out, I am working on menu-planning. Last night, I sat down and started a list of entrees that we like. I am beginning with just the main course at the evening meal, but I may eventually branch out for a full all-day menu...one baby step at a time, though.

So here is this week's menu:

Monday: Homemade Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Tuesday: Chicken Tetrazzini

Wednesday: Quiche & Bacon

Thursday: Leftovers

Friday: Pork Chops

Saturday: Quesadillas

Sunday: Meatloaf

Simple, or just lacking talent

2010-01-08T15:29:00.003-06:00

I'm a simple crafter. Okay, really, I lack talent, but I like to pretend. It's fun and it stretches my creative brain (which isn't all that creative - I'm more a logic person).

Here is what I intended to enter into a contest at The Crafting Pot but forgot to post in time. I took clear ornaments and mod-podged papers on them (the red is scrapbook paper, the others are tissue paper) and added a big bow. The white one was a gift for Jim's teacher. The silver was for my mother-in-law. The red was a hostess gift for a party I attended.

Biting the Bullet - Menu Planning

2010-01-05T15:37:00.003-06:00

I need to menu plan. It feels constricting, but I know that, like budgeting, it will actually be freeing. Now, I need a way to approach it that will be simple enough that I'll stick to it.

My goal this week is just to eat at home each night (except for Girls' Night Out on Friday). I am also going to use this week to start a list of main courses that we enjoy. And I'll have a list of dishes I'd like to try. Sunday will be my day to work out a plan for the week. I'll see what I already have in the fridge and pantry and what's on sale at the stores. Then I'll choose off of my list. I think I'll plan 6 dinners. I know we can do at least one night on leftovers and I'll eat leftovers for lunch. I won't assign a specific meal to a specific day, but each night I'll pick something for the next day's dinner and pull meat out to thaw or marinate if needed.

My goal in doing this is to make the most of the grocery budget and to keep us from eating out (with the exception of an occasional $5 pizza from Little Caesars).

Now that it's in writing, I guess I'm committed!

Tonight is leftovers. Guess I need to figure out what I want to make tomorrow. Maybe chicken enchilada casserole.

2010 in 2010

2010-01-04T12:21:00.003-06:00

My goal is to purge 2010 items in 2010. I'm not counting normal everyday trash. But anything that needs to be purged can count.

The Small Thing today at Home Sanctuary is to fill at least one 13-gallon trash bag with trash from around the house. Extra points for filling extra bags (up to 3 extra). So, yea! I get to combine two challenges! I'll update with my purge for the 2010 challenge.

Update #1: Okay, it's been slow going today. But I did get rid of a box of junk that's been on the back patio forever. I'm counting it as 1 item (even though there were many items in the box).

Resolutions? Nah, not for me!

2010-01-03T18:29:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year!

I'm not doing resolutions any more. I'm an all-or-nothing kind of gal and if I don't achieve my resolution perfectly, then I feel like a failure. So no more resolutions.

But I want to lose weight. I want a clean, sparkly house at all times. I want to be more patient. I want to be more faithful in my Bible studies.

And I will...I will lose weight. I will have a cleaner house (sparkly is a bit too much with 2 boys and a farrier for a husband). I will be more patient. And I will be more faithful in my Bible studies.

How am I going to achieve this? The same way my husband and I have worked on our finances...one baby step at a time. We attended Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University at our church back in the winter/spring of 2007. If you've never heard of this, check out Dave Ramsey's site here. We haven't used a credit card or taken out another loan since. We are on track to be debt-free except the mortgage by the end of the year, if not sooner. And it happened with 2 things...making small steps and just believing that we'd make it. It's not been easy and there have been many times that I felt like a failure - but we never gave up because our mindset had changed so much. There was no going back to the old way.

So I am going to apply the same principles to other areas of my life. I am going to write down small, manageable steps and I am going to believe in my ability to achieve them. I am going to work on my mindset so that going back to the old way is no longer an acceptable option for me.

I've seen others working on a fun challenge for this year - get rid of 2010 items this year. That's an average of 5.5 items a day (if you started on New Year's Day). It sounds like a lot until you look around at all the stuff in your house. Since I had already planned on working on the house tomorrow, I'm going to see how big of a start I can get on getting rid of 2010 items. I know there are holey socks in my boys' bureau. Does each sock count or is it 1 point for a pair? I guess we can make up our own rules! (I say 1 point per sock - odd socks can be used as cleaning rags).

Because she is beautiful...

2009-12-06T18:59:00.003-06:00

"Come on! He had a gorgeous wife! Why did he need to cheat?" Really? That is what I hear over and over on why Tiger should not have had any reason to cheat on his wife. When I hear this, the first thought I wonder is if the writer believes that less-than-beautiful women are okay to cheat on, or at least there's more of an excuse. Am I the only one offended by this thought? That's just sad beyond sad.

How about these reasons for not cheating...Because it's wrong. Because when you marry, you make a vow. Because you should have more self-respect than to cheat on your spouse. Because no matter what the other person does in a marriage, you are still responsible for your actions. Because it breaks God's heart when we sin.

TCP Challenge #6, 2nd entry

2009-11-23T21:18:00.003-06:00

First, please let me apologize for the quality of the pictures. A new camera isn't in the current budget.

This is my 2nd entry to The Crafting Pot's challenge #6. Another napkin ring that also doubles as a place card. I just learned how to do those cute little roses. Super easy (and Cam keeps asking me to make them for him LOL).

I used the same papers that I did for the first entry. What's hard to see in the pics are the metallic shiny stripes interspersed with the others.

Am I a heathen for not having cloth napkins?

TCP Challenge #6, 1st entry

2009-11-23T19:59:00.003-06:00

I titled this "1st entry" because I'm hoping I can get my 2nd entry done on time.

I used a tp tube as the base. I put a copper paper on the inside and a patterned paper on the outside. I found those cute little brads at Michael's. When I bought them weeks ago, I wasn't sure what I'd use them for. I think they are perfect here!

November's Goal

2009-11-02T11:20:00.003-06:00

Home Sanctuary has challenged the Company Girls to set and write down a goal for November - big or small. So my goal is to declutter my home and not let my perfectionist tendencies get in the way. I will just take one room at a time...then within that room one surface at a time. And I won't stress about finishing the whole room in one day.

Since I did a good cleaning on my bathroom this morning, I'll start there. I can probably knock this one out today - but no worries if I don't! Perfectionism won't bind me on this one! I think I'll do the easy rooms first and save the difficult ones for last (like the playroom and the kitchen).

Wanna join me?

The Crafting Pot Challenge #5

2009-10-18T20:32:00.002-05:00

This is my entry for The Crafting Pot's Challenge #5. I was having a hard time imagining something for a return envelope. So I just grabbed one and sat at my (messy) craft desk. Maybe the mess was the inspiration because I came up with Chore Chomper.

This return envelope had a window, so I put black cardstock on the inside. Then I taped it down in the middle so that there are two sides - one with the window and one without. The envelope is the chomper's mouth.

The chores are written on pieces of paper with curly ribbon taped to the back. The ribbon is the hair and when it's time to do chores, the child (or you if you need the inspiration) just pulls one ribbon out to reveal their chore for the morning or such. There's one piece that's a freebie.

When a chore is completed, it is moved to the mouth side to be chomped! (And the pieces look like funny teeth for the chomper.)

Chicken & Veggie Crockpot Soup

2009-10-09T14:29:00.004-05:00

I threw this together last night and it was gooooood.

1 large or 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks (does not need to be cooked)

1 zucchini, sliced or chunks

1 yellow squash, sliced or chunks

1 bag mixed veggies (mine had broccoli, cauliflower and carrots)

5 or so cups of chicken broth (I used 1 can and then 3 cups made from paste)

salt

pepper

onion (minced or powder)

garlic powder (fresh would also be good)

basil

Place the veggies in the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle with seasonings and add 1 can (or 2 cups) broth. Place chicken on top and sprinkle with seasonings. (I just sprinkle until it smells right). Cook on high 4 hours. Add the rest of the broth and a little more of the seasonings. Cook on low for 2 to 3 more hours.

Serve with rice or noodles.

TCP 5 Things Challenge Entry 2

2009-10-05T21:48:00.000-05:00

Here's my 2nd entry for The Crafting Pot's 5 things challenge.

TCP 5 Things Challenge Entry 1

2009-10-05T21:44:00.004-05:00

Here's my first entry to The Crafting Pot's 5 things challenge. The challenge was to use black, grey, white, teal and pink in a project. This one has black ink and brads. The paper is pink, grey, and white. And the buttons are teal.

How I Organize Coupons

2009-10-02T16:46:00.005-05:00

Before I start, let me say that there are several systems for organizing. What works best just depends on the individual. For me, I've tried binders, but I just can't get into them. I haven't tried just dating and filing inserts because it would be more work for me.

I use a box and envelopes. Here's my box:

It's a Sterilite box with a lid that snaps on (I keep my coupon scissors in there as well).

I have my envelopes labeled with categories and the categories are sorted by type. I have 6 main categories - Foods that are snacks, condiments and such, Foods that are boxed, bagged or canned, Frozen/refrigerated foods, Household goods (including paper products and cleaning products), Health and beauty, and Medical. Each category is broken down further. Some people find it helpful to alphabetize by company rather than break down by category. Use whatever works. I like having all brands of a certain type of food or item in one place. It makes it easier for me to do comparison shopping.

I buy 4 papers. I take all of one insert and pull out one page at a time - the same one from all 4 copies. I line them up and cut all four like pages at once. As I cut, I put the coupons in front of the envelopes where they are to be filed.

When I am finished, I go through the box and file the coupons in their envelopes. I also pull expired coupons at this time.

Just Buggin' Blog Hop Entry

2009-10-01T22:16:00.002-05:00

This is my entry for the Just Buggin' blog hop challenge. Sadly, it's my last entry for the hop. I'm out of time for my last three. BUT, I've had a great time doing these! The challenge for this particular one was to use an altered die cut. Yes, I know it's simple. I'm a math brain. I'm just starting to learn creativity LOL

Peachy Keen Blog Hop Entry

2009-10-01T14:12:00.001-05:00

Here is my entry for Peachy Keen Stamps' blog hop challenge. It was a layout challenge. I don't have anything to make scallops with, so I used one of 2 circle punches I had LOL.

Chirper Challenge blog challenge entry

2009-09-30T17:08:00.002-05:00

Here is my entry for the Chirper Challenge blog hop challenge. The paper is glitter paper and I used a retired SU! stamp set for the truffle and saying.

Sew Many Cards Blog Hop Entry

2009-09-30T16:03:00.002-05:00

Here is my entry for Sew Many Cards blog hop challenge. The giraffe design is theirs...cute, huh? Can't wait to send this card out!

Whimsical Scraps & Bugs Blog Hop Entry

2009-09-30T14:21:00.003-05:00

Here is my entry for Whimsical Scraps & Bugs' blog hop challenge. I had fun with this one. I have another idea for one, but I'm not sure I'll get it done in time. I'm not a big halloween person, so I went with a fall theme. And I don't have any small baggies, so I used wax paper.

SPCC Blog Hop Challenge Entry

2009-09-30T08:23:00.004-05:00

First, my apologies for blurry pictures. My cheap camera is going on strike.

This is my entry for the SPCC blog hop challenge. I used glorious green, pumpkin pie and close to cocoa for the cardstock and chocolate chip for the ink. I hadn't done a donut card in a while, so I thought it would be fun.

All About Me Blog Hop Challenge Entry

2009-09-29T18:44:00.002-05:00

The details for the entry qualifications can be found here.

We were to do a scrap lift of the current challenge. I chose this one.

2009-09-28T15:09:00.001-05:00

This is my entry for ScrapSketch's portion of the Blog Hop Challenge. I think it's the first scrapbook page I've ever done LOL.

2009-09-28T14:56:00.003-05:00

This is my entry for a blog hop challenge. This particular entry is for ScrapFIT. I had never done a tri-shutter card, so I thought I'd try my hand. What you can't see is the texture on the leaves in the four "corners." I have a long way to go, but I'm enjoying it!

2009-09-28T07:01:00.001-05:00

Well, I guess I'm jumping into the world of blogging. This will just be about whatever my mind is on. I am in some Bible studies - so that will likely show up. I listen to a lot of talk radio (conservative politics and Dave Ramsey) - so I imagine I'll have something to say about that. I also like to paper craft - I'll post pics if possible. And I'm always battling housework - maybe it would be easier if I'd stop fighting it.

I am a thirty-something Texas gal (born and raised). I have 2 boys and am married to a farrier (that's an educated horseshoer). He loves what he does and I love being married to him. That's about it. Not much to me. Pretty much what you see is what you get.