Live simply, Laugh often, Love much

The Practice of Love, Unconditional

2011-07-27T12:59:00.008-04:00

As I sit in the background of quiet cartoons leading to nap time, the babies dozing and the Princess guiding them off to afternoon slumber...

I regret my choice.

You see, I had a chance just this morning to Love. To quiet my thoughts and bear his burden. To listen and not speak all the words swirling in my head.

I had a chance to express Love in the kindest way...without condition.

Managing to make it thorough another 24hrs of the second life he once loved to live. He made the stop before home, the one for all our comfort, the same one every 3rd day, to release the busyness, the stress, to make the switch from being "on call" to being husband, daddy.

Exercise releases all that, eases the transition.

He arrived hot and tired. The house already buzzing with little voices, pretend car engines revving and squeals from girls playing.

It can be a lot. The pressure.

He needed me to listen, I did, but then I suggested and added pressure.

When the hose is charged, pressure added, if the seals not tight it will burst. Every time.

I didn't make sure the seal was tight.

What if I had been quiet, just listened? Been honoring? I thought I was but when there is even just a hint of self it doesn't come across that way.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

I am sorry for adding stress, for assuming, for implying, expecting and Loving with conditions.

I will keep practicing: LOVE!

Don't shrink back, believe.

2011-07-25T21:50:00.004-04:00

The days turn to weeks and the weeks to years. You can get lost. Each one counts, each one a choice, a chance to be who you always wanted to be...

...the girl God said he'd never leave or forsake, the one he promises to finish, the wife who loves with the unconditional and the mommy that harvests only when the crops are ready.

Don't harden your hearts I read.
It's tough but His word is alive and active. Sharp, read it, learn it, chew on it.
Don't crucify Him again. Once is enough. He loves you.

The old has gone the new has come, now Have faith. The ancients did. And they didn't receive it, that which was promised to them. God had plans, bigger and better.

The way can be confusing, the path overgrown with sinful nature, the light at the end barely visible. Stumbling, groping, trying to make my way without Him is impossible. The weeds catch my feet and the thorns pierce with pain. This doesn't feel like joy.

No discipline seems pleasant at the time.
Train, the harvest will come.

Persevere. Run the race. The one set out. With Jesus as the prize.

So I choose you. I do as you say. I call for you. You come to my side. I keep walking, learning, trusting and maybe my God has plans, bigger and better for me too!

~Transforming this life in Hebrews

Grateful for All This, #133-#172

catching up...a whole year

glow of the moon lighting the path ahead

begs for bedtime stories

the need for this Mommy's love

heart/soul that longs to see you gifts

warmth in the sheets after a restful night

sleepy smiles

friends who love

the hum of his muffler

calloused hands soaking in dishwater to bless me

busy little bodies ready for learning daddy's lessons

morning hugs that heal

excitement for things yet to come

pancakes and yummy sausage

relaxing days at home

fresh eggs

patience rewarded

the suns warmth

sweat from the run

playful giggles from park toys

conviction in his voice

breakfast sandwiches, homemade

stretching the creamer with milk

opportunities to serve

Boys vs Girls

spring bird songs

wet ground, soaking up the dew of morning

screen doors

soothing music

candlelit mornings

crisp autumn air

silverware drumsticks

cozy slippers

warm sheets on chilly mornings

chalk written spelling words

good morning calls

curled up lips

store bought fall leaves that bring me to another place

streaming pictures of our adventures

When all else has failed: Cry out, then Listen!

2010-10-27T13:53:00.011-04:00

It's amazing, how when we ask he answers. How when I finally give up again, he comes to my rescue.

Last week I was frustrated, still am but better now. He gave me a verse and I read it and I wrote it and I spoke it straight to him with the ounces I had left that day.

Lord, Turn your ear to me,
come quickly to my rescue;
be my rock of refuge,
a strong fortress to save me.

Since you are my rock and my fortress,
for the sake of your name lead and guide me.

Free me from the trap that is set for me,
for you are my refuge.

~ Psalm 31:2-4

He did, that very evening as a matter of fact! He heard me and now as I look back I am reminded "What an amazing God we serve"

He loves me and he loves you! No matter what we do, what we think or how we act...he loves us each and every one.

I was dropping off little voices to blend with the choir when in the hall of the north wing I found his answer! They stood there talking, deciding what tables to use and whether to brew coffee.

The workbooks, brand new, still with the cardboard smell, lie there on the table drawing me. I had decided no more workbooks. I don't finish, I never finish so what's the point in starting. I'll just keep doing my own thing!

I know he knows all but I think, often, I can out plan him. I surrendered my plan and humbled myself to pick up the pen, black on white, I wrote my name, the only one in written ink. The others had all signed up by the deadline. I lifted a book from the stack of twenty and trusted this was what he wanted me to do, Break Free from the pattern, Break Free from all that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. (Heb 12:1)

The video was amazing! The same words I used "Not the same thing, again!" were used and I was touched, by the one who cares so much for me.

Not the same old stuff, again?

2010-10-14T13:53:00.007-04:00

Redundant, what is He trying to teach me in the same place I was!

Beat up, feeling worth less than I know He sees.

Do we always come back over and over, just a little farther than before? This time I know it sooner, but still fight. Is it the sin nature one's born with that causes such turmoil?

Does there have to be a constant struggle...to become more like Him?

I move through this day, can't I start again? Why does it feel like that everyday, I can't restart everyday...I'd never get anywhere!

My life is cracked and chiped, I can't be anyone's rock. I am grateful for the imperfections for they make me who I am, they make me touchable, reachable, real!

I read these words Psalm 31:2-4 and pray...

Turn your ear to me,
come quickly to my rescue;
be my rock of refuge,
a strong fortress to save me.

Since you are my rock and my fortress,
for the sake of your name lead and guide me.

Free me from the trap that is set for me,
for you are my refuge.

Show me. Show me!

Blooming Out of Season

2010-04-28T12:06:00.018-04:00

Well here we go again! I actually began blogging a couple years ago with this very topic, gardening. We always have the best of intentions in this area but never seem to get it quite right. Armed with top soil, gifted broccoli and cauliflower sprouts I give it another try. With great expectations of a little green patch!

My crazy Red Head and I planted 3 cauliflower. It was well past their October~January season but what the heck...let's give it a try!

We dug places for 3 broccoli, them also past their season which ended in January. We watered the new ground and hoped for the best : )

As you can see those little gifted seedlings did quite well. Two of the cauliflower just never really got going but one held on as long as it could. It actually grew a tennis ball sized harvest before it kicked the bucket. Only one of the broccoli died while the other two grew and grew and grew. To be honest I had no idea what to expect. I have never seen a broccoli plant. I typically make a trip to the produce stand and pick up a couple packaged heads with out much thought about what I'm steaming up for dinner. I wasn't really sure when I needed to harvest the crop from these two waist high plants.

Well, apparently I waited a little to long. Upon my arrival to the garden that morning I was guite surprised to find beautiful little yellow flowers all over the heads of my broccoli...they bloomed! I had no idea we eat the flower buds. I won't lie I was bummer to find they had bloomed but at the same time pleasently surprised to realize we eat the buds.

Amazing to me as I write about my simple adventures in gardening how God can teach me. I think while plunking the keyboard how he can use us, even when we think our "season" is over or has passed. God's plan is so much bigger than we will ever be able to fathom. His plans will succeed, and He will be glorified.

Many are the plans in a man's heart,
but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

Proverbs 19:21

Just a thought to ponder:

We can choose to keep ourselves within self made boundaries or we can bloom out of season!

Simplicity

2010-03-10T08:29:00.010-05:00

It's now that I am reminded of how simple pleasures can excite, uplift and soothe.

Tuesday's dawn upon us, we stretch, nourish and begin our mind expanding.

I woke them only after taking my time. We move through the warming almost spring morning. They sit in tree forts and tree stands maybe trying to get closer to Him. The sun warming they're backs and the sky's expanse for them to dream, sing, and praise Him. Daddy arrives and the day is underway.

Lessons learned and lunch on the table.

Little man is out in the world again and we hear him coming. Barreling through the laundry door, he's yelling "eggs, I found eggs, The chickens laid eggs!" We aren't hungry, the adrenaline has filled our bellies and we are stunned. With wide eyes we all run...grown mommy and daddy, the frog princess, we run. Our feet stomping the new sprigs of grass, we follow him hoping it's true. Six months have passed...there's been much waiting and much watching. Sure enough there they are, two freshly laid brown eggs! And we linger for one hour and one half soaking up the moment, in awestruck excitement. We are proud! Proud of our patience, love and simplicity.

What it's supposed to be like!

2010-02-11T11:17:00.001-05:00

Today they amaze me, they encourage me to press on, they listen and work excited for what's to come.

A couple weeks ago we decided to bring our little man back home to us. So scared and unsure of the decision I was but I trusted that God was speaking through him, the daddy of our home that is. Through constant prayer and laying before our Lord, my family, it's beginning to show the surrender, the willingness to do what is not our plan but HIS!

Today is amazing. We began with stories read by the princess of 11 and we listened to the rhymes, the cadence of the words, and smiled. Then without pressure we parted, readied ourselves for the day and meet with Him! Each on our own, even Mr. Independent himself. He sat in his quite time spot, a chair just like daddy's and visited with his God for a few minutes through books, music and innocent prayers. The princess did the same adding her scriptures to read chronologically through the Bible this year.

I LOVE THIS!

Then came the other stuff...Language Arts, Math and Reading.
We love this stuff too but not quite as much as time with HIM! Of course we enjoy learning the lessons needed to succeed, the fascinating stories of American History and exactly how to write each letter correctly. The bios of our founding fathers and classic Golden book stories like The Poky Little Puppy.

Everyday does not always look like this, sometime there are rabbit trails, behavior to encourage and hearts to train but as for today, this is it and I'll take it!

Now we are done for the day... off to the library to return things borrowed and find new treasures.

All's complete but laundry, dinner, dishes and the lessons we sneak in along the way.

Point your kids in the right direction

when they're old they won't be lost.

Proverbs 22:6
(The Message)

Week Three: Who exactly do you think you are?

2010-01-20T18:23:00.006-05:00

My mind tries to fathom who you are. My brain reaches to understand your majesty but it is impossible to take in all that you are.

The one who "laid the foundations of the Earth and gives order to the morning". The God who knows "when mountain goats give birth and who gives the horse it's strength". The one who "has seen the gates of the shadow of death and sends the lightning bolts in their way".

Oh God of the universe, expand my mind with more of you! Fill me with more of your presence, and Father, when I am prideful and think I know all remind me as you did Job of your Majesty. Remind me that you and only you know all things, that if I can't wrap my brain around your creation, what makes me think I will understand your ways!

Trust, Faith in you is vital!

And when I realize my insufficency, Lord let me Praise you.

Job 38-41

Week Two: What's going on?

2010-01-13T11:13:00.012-05:00

Well, a bit behind but it's all good!

God's got me right where he wants me :)

The past week has been unexpected to say the least. Saturday the 9th was the start of the craziest day we've had in a long time. Faith was hanging out with a girl friend at her house, Bill was on duty at the Fire Dept and as for myself and Ty, well we started the whole mess!

We were enjoying the quiet house and beautiful day then Ty decided to play outside while I sat at the dining room table to do some reading in my bible. As I wrapped up the remainder of the reading for that day, I kid you not, I finished the last verse and heard a blood curdling scream from outside! Being the mom of this kid, I paused for a moment and listened for more, which would give the indication that he was not kidding! The second scream came and I was like "grease lightening", up from the chair and out the door I flew. There was Ty running towards me, holding his face and screaming that the dog had bit him. I took a look and yup there was definitely an abrasion. It looked more like a cut than a bite but either way it was gonna need some medical attention.

To make this painfully long story short, we spent way to much time in the ER waiting for stitches that never came, nor did any sort of cleaning agent. The wound was sealed up with a kind of super glue for skin and we were sent on our way. Upon my arrival home from the ER with Ty, Bill called to inform me he was being taken to the ER for chest pain. This was going to be a long night!

After running some tests and an overnighter at the hospital, the doctor couldn't seem to find any reason for the sudden pain. Sunday after church Bill was being discharged and Ty's germ infested wound was now dangerously infected and had to be delt with! Monday and Tuesday we had Dr's appointments, a follow up for Bill that showed an arterial blockage and traumatizing procedures for Ty, where the skin glue (dermabond) had to be ripped off to allow the infection out. The following days we simply had to clean it and redress it with gauze ect. Bill was scheduled for a heart cath which revealed NOTHING! The blockage was there...then gone, Prayer works people!

Putting all our immediate family emergencies aside, my extended family seems to be literally falling apart! Ministry is proving to be a daunting task, My kids are pecking the very flesh off my bones and I feel totally insufficient to deal with any of it.

I know I can't deal with any of it on my own

but remembering it is the challenge!

That is why I believe God's got me right where he wants me...totally striped of the control I thought I had and bare, waiting on Him, trusting Him and being reminded of His power. Power to give it all and take it all away. That's exactly what happens in the book of Job. Over the last week and a half that's where He's got me reading His word, in the book that paints the picture of blessing through suffering.

I know, too often I think it's all about me and the things that happen

or don't happen have everything to do with me.

Not to mention that sometimes it feels like I didn't do anything

to deserve the suffering I feel.

But

What if it has nothing to do with me?

What if it is solely to prove His power?

What if it has everything to do with glorifying and praising Him!

"Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"

Job 2:10

Week One: What a beginning!

2010-01-06T20:43:00.006-05:00

How can you believe it but not believe it at the same time?
I have never read through the entire Bible before, ever! But this year 2010 will be different...I can feel it already. I new sense of expectancy, a new sense of excitement, a desire to know all I can about the book I am to use as a road map for this life!

I began this week in Genesis, the place you should begin, The Beginning. It's interesting to me that as I read, the fact that I've heard, read and taught this story before didn't help me, it actually hendered me. I began to skim right over the words themselves. I caught myself, slowed down and really took the time to see what I was reading. It makes me wonder how often we read things and don't see them, don't take the time to soak up what the Lord has for us in it.

As I saw it, I began to realize that God created this place for us to praise Him. So that every time we see a beautiful flower, a dolphin gliding on the water, a child's precious glance, the love of a spouse, the warmth of the sun on our skin... He did each and every thing so that we would remember Him and Praise Him! Now, I know this but when you are reminded of the things you know you remember them :)

This year is going to be like no other.
I can't wait to learn the things I don't know and remember things I do!

Month 4 Poultry Post

2009-12-17T15:34:00.002-05:00

Well allot has happened since my last update, the six little chicks as you know are down to five. Uno the one with the attitude really did go missing and never came back...sad! Little Sis is still goin' strong even with only one wing she is just the same as the rest, getting big and enjoying long days wandering around not only our yard but the neighbors too.

The kids have a blast chasing and catching them then cuddling as long as they can. Although Faith went a little overboard recently. She had one hen in hand and tried to get another for Ty, who was getting frustrated not being quick enough. She did manage to get the second one but newly named Violet got a bit jealous and pecked her right on the eyelid...ouch!

The girls are not laying yet though, I've been told only happy hens lay eggs, so I don't know if they are unhappy or if it's just not time yet. I plan to reread about when they should begin, after all they are just 4months old!

We pulled the coop mahal into the pasture and currently just open different doors for them to enter their run when we're not home. When we are home they just get to be totally free range, which is most of the time. I was concerned that in the evening we were going to have trouble getting them back to their coop but when dusk is setting in they head straight for safety, tossing out some feed around this time has helped train them to come back, go figure!

Well that's really it for now. Wish happy chickens for us and maybe we'll get surprise eggs soon!

How Time Flies

2009-11-28T09:19:00.003-05:00

I can't believe I haven't posted in almost a month and haven't read any of your posts either! Sometimes its good though to refocus and gather yourself. I kinda just thought "an unintentional fast" good stuff :) Well, I'm gonna restart if nothing more my gratitude list, It was really helping me to stay thankful everyday of the gifts God has given me! Helping me focus on the things that matter.

This year, Bill and I having gone through the better part of Dave Ramsey's financial study decided to cut up all our credit cards not even leaving one for you know those "emergencies". Not having credit to spend with made us think about how much we spend at Christmas on gifts. We are starting a new tradition here at our house, that is putting Christ back in Christmas. We will only give/receive 3 gifts this year. There are 4 of us so that means only 12 presents under the tree. Whew! what a relief it is to cut down on the madness. Don't get me wrong I had a little gut check and felt the lump in my throat for a little while but now I am so excited to shift the focus for our family. We have always had Jesus in the center of our season but put all the gifts and self up higher. We will not only cut down on gifts but they will be reminders of the gift Jesus received, gold, frankincense and myrrh so our gifts will represent body, mind and spirit. I feel like the pressures off. We don't have to buy everything and the things we do buy will have a meaning, they won't just be random stuff.

Some of our ideas are:

Body- Heated rollers, Yard sale Scooter for $1, Hunting boots
Mind- Music lessons, Video game, Learning Games,
Spirit- CD player, Cd's, Bible sticks, Comfy chair for quiet time(yard sale or thrifted of course)

I also found a 2$ end table for my quiet time spot (yard sale) and a 25$ sewing machine(pre-bought gift from Bill for me that I couldn't pass up!)

Yay! can't wait to hear your ideas!

Mama Said What?

2009-11-02T14:10:00.007-05:00

Today I'm simply thankful for reminders:

that God loves me and I love Him
that I need to spend quality time strengthening our relationship
that when I seek Him with all I have, I will find Him
that I need to put Him first in everything I do
that I am never going to be perfect but I don't have to be either
that my kids are gifts to me
that my husband is my partner
that I love them and they love me

that no matter what happens on any given day I get to choose who I'm gonna glorify; Me or God?

that everyone gets the same amount of time in a day; What will I do with mine?

that we don't only wear our seat belts in heavy traffic thus we can't cram God's word in our hearts at the last minute. We need to be prepared for the emergencies!

that I am a princess, that is, a daughter of the king!

#122-132

What is the plan exactly ?

2009-11-01T13:14:00.005-05:00

Ever feel like you know exactly what is going on only to realize you have no earthly idea what God is doing?

That has been my life lately, asking myself things like: What is He prepping me for? What am I going through this struggle or that one for? Well, I am deciding that it doesn't matter what the end result is so long as I glorify Him in the process. So much of what we go through has nothing to do with what the actual outcome is but rather the way we go through it!

In short, I don't have all the answers but I know God is in control and if we go to Him in our lack of, in our brokenness and humbly seek His will for our lives He will come through for us.

*smile*

If you give a mom a muffin…

2009-10-06T10:31:00.002-04:00

If you give a mom a muffin, She’ll want a cup of coffee to go with it. She’ll pour herself some. Her three-year-old will spill the coffee. She’ll wipe it up. Wiping the floor, she’ll find dirty socks. She’ll remember she has to do laundry. When she puts the laundry in the washer, She’ll trip over boots and bump into the freezer. Bumping into the freezer will remind her she has to plan for supper. She will get out a pound of hamburger. She’ll look for her cookbook (”101 Things To Do With a Pound of Hamburger”). The cookbook is sitting under a pile of mail. She will see the phone bill, which is due tomorrow. She will look for her checkbook. The check book is in her purse that is being dumped out by her two-year-old. She’ll smell something funny. She’ll change the two year old’s diaper. While she is changing the diaper, the phone will ring. Her five-year-old will answer and hang up. She’ll remember she wants to phone a friend for coffee. Thinking of coffee will remind her that she was going to have a cup. And chances are… If she has a cup of coffee, Her kids will have eaten the muffin that went with it.
by Kathy Fictorie

This was posted by a friend on another blog and I couldn't resist anymore...I love this and how closely it mirrors my life!
Hope you enjoy it!

What glasses are you wearing?

2009-10-05T13:59:00.004-04:00

Yesterdays sermon impacted me and I want to share it with you!

Pastor spoke of glasses and the ones we wear or don't wear effecting the way we see everything. It make me think of any one of my days, how I view people I come in contact with, how I see them graciously or judgmentally.

1 Samuel 16:7 says..."The Lord does not look at the things man looks at . Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."
I am thankful He looks at me this way...the heart and not the outward appearance cause frankly I can look quite ugly sometimes. Shouldn't I too then look at others this way? Occasionally, I find myself giving others the grace and acceptance the Lord gives me but much less often than I should expect from myself.

I have often found myself saying to husband or kids," be nice, who knows what is going on in their life right now!" Then other times, in my own conscience it doesn't register. I surely expect others to see me as God sees me, then I don't do the same for them.

What's the answer to the dilemma you ask?
To wear the right glasses. It's a choice...like loving those who are difficult to love. It's a choice...to put on the glasses of grace and humility.

So I ask you...Do you see clearly?

...For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 25:35-40

Lord, open the eyes of my heart that I might see others the way you see them! And Father, when they look at me let them see You!

I'm thanking in advance for...

116. clarity in my vision
117. challenges to grow me deeper
118. opportunities to give a God kind of grace to those around me
119. check ups for my character
120. sermons that make sense
121. prayers with touch
122. growth you can feel

I get to choose?

2009-10-02T19:35:00.004-04:00

Today started out pretty rocky. I woke up late, we clamored out of bed, choked down cereal and hurry, hurry, hurry we have to go... I began the day the way I never want to!

We made it through our morning lessons in the nick of time, but not before I found myself in tears and kneeling by my bed...this was huge, I rarely see what I need in the moment and this time I knew what I needed to do. I was just there waiting for Him to help me help myself...God why? Why do I always mess it all up? Help me, Help me do your will and not my own.

The day took a turn for the better...I dropped all things seen and headed for the unseen. We had a relaxing afternoon sewing with my dear friend and I left with a lifted spirit and for Faith, a homemade treasure. God is so faithful if we will just trust Him...really trust Him!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6

In All My Imperfections

2009-09-28T07:13:00.002-04:00

Here I sit another day passed, another day of mistakes and another day of forgiveness. Here I sit with my heart hurt, the way I tick, the way I fail you and you still love me! Thank You for loving me, Thank you for not giving up on me, Thank you for encouraging, forgiving and never leaving me!!!

And you show me all these things, things to praise you for...

83. their whispers from the couch
84. fall decorations
85. potatoes the size of small melons
86. 5 senses in which to take it all in
87. the blue/gray sky at dusk
88. clean skin after long dirty day
89. chlorine bleached finger nails
90. the contrast of hair and personalities
91. completed school days
92. smores from the oven, made by little hands
93. endless giggles
94. responsibility
95. the quiet at bedtime
96. clean sink when dinners done
97. the shine of his freshly shaven head
98. the smile in his eyes
99. stillness in the pond
100. brisk morning walks
101. blankets of vines covered with bright purple trumpet flowers
102. surprise visits from friends
103. handmade bag
104. the "playing" of school even after school is done
105. dirty little fingers
106. lots of laughs and joy
107. chicken on the bone
108. hungry bellies
109. hugs for a friend
110. the season that brings us bounty
111. celebrations for those i love
112. daddy spending time with his son
113. electricity
114. garage door openers
115. alarm clocks

Now I look in awe at your creation and take it all in, yes every little thing...

Cash Flow Planning...Oh My!

2009-09-26T13:22:00.001-04:00

"Money flows from those who don't manage it
and to those who do."

A little late on my Thursday post, here it is...

Ok, so just being honest here, I am totally stoked about all the forms and getting things organized. If you know me, you know what it is to be/have "a little" OCD! This part excites me a little, ok a lot, I know my inner "Nerd" is showing...I'm good with it.

The idea here is to create a zero based budget using the income you'll have. Spend every dollar on paper before the month begins...being sure to secure your "4 walls" first. Paying for necessities before creditors ie.

1)food

2)shelter including utilities

3)clothing and

4)transportation

Then continue allocating all income until you reach a zero balance. You have now told it where to go. Next step follow your plan...

I am not excited about the reality of this...We had our Budget Committee Meeting and there is definitely to much month left at the end of the money, it is scary to lay it all out and really look at what a monster you've created. I cried and he used a few choice words then we realized how bad we need to do this! We did not get in a big fight with one another just emotional about the reality of the situation.

I made a Family Budget Binder w/ a FPU cover sheet to keep things organized and accessible. I plan to work on more forms today and use our Budget Binder when planning for and when paying bills ect. The categories that recommend using cash for we are committed to use "cash only". Our plan says we will be out of consumer debt by July/Aug of 2012...not to far away! Come on cleaning jobs for me and a little overtime for him, then maybe we can do this thing sooner!

Wish us commitment and diligence!

"Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to you herds" Proverbs 27:23

Dig deep

2009-09-23T06:19:00.003-04:00

As Summer fades and Autumn falls, we must remain willing. Continue or simply begin loosening up the soil with in us, so that it is ready for the planting, so that it is ready for the harvest.

Should we neglect to dig deep, to break up our hard places through vulnerable time with the Savior, we may miss the Summer of our lives. We may miss the abundant harvest He wishes to plant in the soil of our soul.

As this weather season changed let our hearts change too! Let us turn from selfishness to selflessness, let us turn from pride to humility and Lord let us see the crops you've planted this season be harvested the next. Nurture our soil. Help us dig deep, down to the rich fertile goodness.

May your Autumn bring willingness to loosen up the soil within you and break up the hard places so He has a place to plant. nurture. grow. and produce a harvest that will glorify Him.

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.

Later on, however, it produces a harvest of

righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Hebrews 12:11

It is hard to get up early. It is hard to throw back the warm blankets and reveal the cold air. It is not pleasant for me to get up and stumble to the coffee pot but the harvest that it will bring will be worth so much more than those extra few minutes under the cozy covers.

Wow!

2009-09-21T12:24:00.007-04:00

Today the gratitude is endless...

restful sleep
warm sheets
waking up on time
bible reading by lantern light
sunrising across the trees
prayers that connect
curriculum schedules
our willingness to comprimise
life lessons
christian artists on xm radio
crock pots
meal planning
coupons
opportunities to contribute
the overcoming of fear
happy little guy coming home from school
ginger ale
chicken soup
reenacted bible stories totally impromptu- peter walks on water and Pharaoh/plagues
being on time

#62-81
I could go on today but I'll save some for next week!

Kindergarden Rocks! Especially PE...

2009-09-18T16:09:00.002-04:00

There he is to the far right of the pic, lookin' good for Patriot's Day at

Samsula Academy. What a handsome boy...I'm not partial or anything.

Well my fears are gone! Ty is having a blast in kindergarden...he loves PE the most. "It's awesome to do laps around the track, Mom! I think I'm the fastest in the whole school...well except for the 5th graders." He's had great first few weeks...Teacher say's he's one of the "good" boys, go figure! He is reading well and loves to learn...a kid after my own heart. I pray that he continues to want to please and strives to do the best he can in all he does. I hope to have him home in the future to love that learning with us!

Oh, and he got Terrific Kid this week, so cute!

Relating with Money

2009-09-18T15:05:00.008-04:00

"Accountability and support are the ladders that lift us up from life's pits."

One step closer to getting somewhere, Bill and I went to class last night and laughed our butts off! This week Dave talked about nerds and free spirits uniting, basically how very different men and women are, in every way you can think of. The fact that: The #1 thing that ends marriages in America is money fights, Wow! He made it clear both should be making the financial decisions, then we are accountable to someone and that we should be teaching our kids about money. Prov 22:6-7. Lots to think about this week...

We made commitments to...save something in an emergency fund, even if it's only $4 bucks and to come to class.

This weeks homework:

Read ch.14-18
We are going to begin collecting credit card offers from the mail and at the end of class total them up to see how much debt we've avoided.

We have defiantly taken the first few steps needed to shift our thinking and begin taking control. We have a little tiny emergency fund started exactly 7.50% of our goal, Yay! We are on our way! I love the member resource website... very easy to use and lots of helpful tools. I feel like we already have a better handle on things, although It doesn't seem possible in just over a week but when your only spending what comes in, that's a heck of allot better than borrowing.

"The rich rules over the poor and the borrower is servant to the lender." Prov 22:7

the silent...quiet ones

2009-09-16T16:57:00.003-04:00

...these are the prayers that mean so much, when you know He knows and you meet, completely understood. It's hard to break away, they all need so much...I think I need something else, do I? Not hardly, Him, in the quiet...me silent, is all that can fix everything!

Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, Oh Lord. Ps 139:4

When I awake,
I am still
with you. v.18

Loss of life and injuries

2009-09-12T11:13:00.000-04:00

About a week after my last poultry post, Faith went out to feed that Wednesday morning and counted only five chickens. She came in quickly and made the announcement "mommy, there's only five, I counted only five!" We walked out together to make sure and sure enough one had completely vanished, no signs of a struggle, no clumps of feathers...just gone.

As we watched and tried to figure it out we noticed that the one we call "little sis" the sort of runt was injured. It appeared her left wing was completely detached from her body and just kinda hanging on by a ... well you can imagine! We quickly removed her from the coop and placed her in a box, beginning to evaluate her injury and mental state. I asked around on a chicken forum and it was suggested to remove the wing if it was possible. "Great, one chicken gone and now we need to do surgery on another" Her injury was not life threatening, so we didn't want to just put her out of her misery. We tried to remove it with scissors but it proved to be too painful for her and us. White as ghosts and felling a little flush, I called up a friend and we did surgery together. Some meds to numb the area and a sharp razor blade to do the cutting. Little sis took it well, she sat calmly with love for us in her eyes...I really didn't think chickens had personalities but oh they do.

We kept her separated for a few more days and while hanging' in the garage in a box she gained strength trying to fly, one winged out of the box. We decided, so she wouldn't hurt herself while healing, to lay the box on it's side and let her have free range of the garage. This is when we began to see all that personality... anytime we open the laundry room door to the garage she would come chirping and running to the door, walk right in to the kitchen and look for us...amazing!

Now about 3 weeks later she is back to normal, just missing a wing, with her family in the coop. I told the kids, " We have a one legged daddy, why can't we have a one winged chicken!"

Words on the Page

2009-09-11T10:15:00.003-04:00

Today, she writes, final draft of weeks work...thoughts dreamed in the depths of herself.

"Mommy, when you write it's like a mystery! All you see is a blank page with all the thoughts in your mind. Then when the pencil connects with the page it seems like magic! You start to uncover the hidden text. As you write, the words you've dreamed come to life on that blank page and it is like magic!"

Oh, how I love to hear her heart...this moment of many...the reason we have hearts for schooling at home!

Super Saving

2009-09-10T22:53:00.003-04:00

"You can get anywhere if you simply go one step at a time"

Well, tonight was the first of a 13 wk class put on by Financial Peace University. Hubby and I decided to sign up for this one as we have a record of making what we "think" to be good decisions. However, our current state proves otherwise.

With that said I am excited to be part of this class although Bill won't be able to attend every wk I'll be there to take it all in. The video sessions taught by Dave Ramsey are hilarious and he really seems like he is legit, ya know not just a millionaire trying to make more, from telling you how to do things their way. Nope, not him at all, this is totally Gods way and Dave's just relaying the info.

My plan is to post what my thoughts are after each session and have some accountability to follow through with my weekly homework (which doesn't seem to heavy but this is only week 1)

fill out the quickie budget, bring it next week
log in to FPU member resources
read ch.1, 2, 3 and 10
begin saving my first 1,000.00 emergency fund

My hope is to have a better out look on how to handle our money. I also hope to walk away from this program with the tools to make wiser choices with how we spend our money. And hey, if we have managed to save a nice chunk for emergencies in the process, sweet!

"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful, Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."
Hebrews 12:11

For This I'm On My Knees

2009-09-09T17:10:00.006-04:00

Lord, For this, I am on my knees
...your provision please.
I catch a glimpse here and there,
yet still I need to see you!

I pray for wisdom in these days,
and need your guidance each and every step of the way.
Lord, show me how to bow to you,
with heart wide open and less to prove.

Fill me with your gracious touch,
and help me keep my flesh shut up.
It gets away and can run quite wild,
But I know your guidance can calm this child.

Lord, For this, I am on my knees,
for you my God, to help me!

Ending this Season

2009-09-07T12:55:00.004-04:00

With the change from one time to the next,

I can see Him all the more clearly.

As Summer comes to an end...

His majesty in the sweaty days of summer, the heat of the Florida sun, cold water to cool the steaming skin. I am amazed how he planned it to move through time, everything having it's season.

And as Autumn approaches...

the heat begins to fade, cool breezes blow through the air, blankets feel cozier than ever and the dieing begins. The time for Summer fun draws to an end, the time for windows to be open and comfort foods served, rises again.

This Summer season has proved to be a rocky one, many mountains and valleys. But just as there are seasons for this earth, there are seasons for this life. High and low, beautiful and ugly...all for the growing. Consider it pure joy (every season), ... knowing that the testing of your faith develops perseverance!

God as this season comes to a close and the next takes it's place:

Grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.

#50-61

Struggling? short & sweet

2009-09-05T02:00:00.000-04:00

This life can be quite unpredictable!

One day is wonderful~quiet time first thing no doubt, house chores done like that, kids happy and just fine, school day completely sweet, dinner done even early, and just before bedtime treats.

The next~ it all seems to unravel...you didn't have/make time this morning...to tired's the excuse, laundry's fallen everywhere, sink is full, what where's the juice? forgot to plan for dinner, bills unpaid, and groceries needed, something spilled on the seat!!! Great I forgot the meeting!

I am reminded this early morning that this is not my struggle, the battle has been won! Besides my fleshly feelings Jesus is still Gods son. He came to bear my burdens and to Him today I ask, Please help me keep my earthly focus on things that surely last.

Our recipe for prayer

2009-09-02T09:17:00.006-04:00

We read this morning in Matthew 6:9-13 the best way to pray, then we made our own recipe for prayer, literally.

Here's how we did it:
5 trail mix type ingredients (we just used what we had in the pantry and it worked out great)

Place a small hand full of each in a snack/sandwich bag and identify how each can remind you of the 5 ingredients in the Lord's Payer.

Praise - honoring God (sm marshmallows-sinless/white, fluffy/happy praise)
Purpose - wanting Gods will not our own (raisins-someone dried prunes for the purpose of creating raisins)
Provision - trusting God to take care of us (graham cracker broken up like sm pieces of bread)
Pardon - forgiveness from God and for others (plain chex cereal-jail cell bars ect)
Protection - from temptation and evil (semi-sweet chocolate chips-tempting)

Our plan is to use them at snack time in our home and recall each ingredients meaning. We also want to make some for other family/friends and start kind of an "friendship bread" chain with Prayer Trail mixes!

Would you like to be one of the first to join our chain...?

Make enough trail mixes to give to all the members of the 2-3 families/friends of your choice...much like friendship bread.

Ex. We choose Sally Sue's family of 4, we will made 4 trail mixes for them and encourage them to read the passage in scripture, talk with their family about it and then keep the chain going by choosing a couple families to make the recipe for!

Include a post card size copy of this info in the baggies.

Write with sharpie on the outside of the baggie...

Matthew 6:9-13

"The Recipe for Prayer"

Have fun making and recalling Gods "Recipe for Prayer" this was an amazing teachable moment in our home!!! We will continue to make trail mix this way and encorage you to do it to.

FYI: The taste wasn't to shabby either!

Grace

2009-09-01T21:25:00.002-04:00

I just have to say today that aside all my mistakes and impurities, I am so thankful for Gods grace(completely undeserved and unearned).

I am not unlike you during this time, I get angry and fume... I don't realize I'm somewhere else...somewhere I don't even want to be. Yet I defend the castle I've built, desperately wanting to be rescued. You are there just beyond where I think I can jump, it's only by my own faults, my own wall that I can't see you right now! I wait here until my mind is right, until the clouds drift away, until I can chip some small pebbles out and the light floods the space...Ah...now I see you, now I have the strength to come to you, now I remember!

Psalm 8

2009-08-31T12:00:00.004-04:00

O LORD, our Lord How majestic is your name
in all the earth!

You have set your glory above the heavens.
From the lips of children and infants
you have ordained praise
because of your enemies,
to silence the foe and the avenger.

When I consider your heavens,
the works of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
You made him a little lower then the heavenly beings
and crowned him with glory and honor.
You made him ruler over the works of your hands;
you put everything under his feet:
all the flocks and herds,
and beasts of the field,
the birds of the air,
the and the fish of the sea,
all that swim the paths of the seas.

O LORD, our Lord How majestic is your name
in all the earth!

This day I am thankful for the opportunity to read these words, for the chance to take in His majesty. Thankful that I have been given the opportunity to impact this world for the God who David wrote in awe of, for the God who's majesty is indescribable!

#45-49

Begining the Journey

2009-08-26T21:00:00.002-04:00

Well, In our home we pray normally before meals and at bed time. My Husband and I for whatever reason have not made it a point to pray regularly together or as a family. I know how vital this is in our walk, yet for some reason we still don't make it happen. I will have every good intention of doing so and still set it on a shelf...

Just this past Monday began the journey of more regular prayer time for us, Praise God! With dinner done house quickly picked up we met in the living room with soft music on, all ready to read from Gods Word and then Pray together. We read in Philippians, due to this being a difficult financial and emotional time for us. Then we did it...from his daddy chair he suggested we also add something about today that we were thankful for! Amazing what happens when we let down our guard, open up, being honest with Christ and yes, each other too!

Next night we would meet there again in our family devotion/prayer spot, cuddled together with pillows and blankets. This time Daddy reads from Philippians and we listen to what our heavenly father has for us this night. We are tired tonight, much yawning and squirming but we listen then pray...together!

So our journey of prayer together begins...

Capturing each moment

2009-08-24T20:34:00.004-04:00

Without my camera I notice how much I really loved it, just a simple Kodak point and shoot but oh the memories I was capturing.

This time I am thankful for:

32. Each and every time I can snap a precious picture even if only in my mind
33. She reads to him before nap time, with puppets and all
34. His coming back 1hr later for the half a PB&J we saved that

"he just couldn't eat, too full"
35. Tractor running all morning, wiping away the tall sun burnt grass,

revealing lush green
36. Pearly white teeth yet to take their journey to my jewelry box
37. Soft sheets & Feather pillows
38. The single freckle on his nose
39. Warm brownies with cold milk
40. Their willingness to stay up, listen and encourage, I love you both
41. My Bible, Gods spoken Word
42. Saturday morning shows on ch.45 The Good Life,

that is what it is...
43. Expectancy... for what God will do each day
44. T.V. off for Family devotions in Philippians

Priceless...

This is How We Roll

2009-08-22T15:22:00.000-04:00

My dear friend posted how they get back to school shopping done at their house.

http://thusfarwithgod.blogspot.com/2009/08/how-we-roll.html

Then asked how we do it. So, Here's the the Henry Herd low down.

2 kids, 1boy, 1 girl
Said boy will be attending our local charter school for Kindergarden
Said Girl is Homeschooling again for the 3rd year
All very exciting!

Said boy, happens to go by Ty. Ty is very particular about his clothing at times which can drive ME completely insane! The way things feel, the way they fit, the color etc. all issues for him pretty regularly. Said boy is wearing UNIFORMS So Ha! I say to you Ty, no more choices...However the price to be paid for sanity is high, 15$ per polo shirt, not to include the Khaki shorts (already had one pair and found 2 others thrifting for 1$ a piece) and solid color sneakers (found on Kmart special for 10$) Whew! Ty done!

Said Girl is becoming quite trendy... cutesy tops, skinny jeans, and gladiator sandals. Where did the little redneck go, heck I don't know. So due to home being school said girl, who goes by Faith gets to shop all year round. We simply pick things up as we see them on sale or in thrift stores. Not much else to say...

We have found it satisfying to remove things through the year that don't fit to our "give away" pile and then unload it all at our church's biannual free clothing event "No Strings Attached". Feels great to give it away with no strings attached, no tax right off or reward just pure giving, It's fun to see others be blessed!

That's it for us, nothin' fancy, no lengthy or expensive trips to the mall. Simplicity. Ahhh!

Continuing the Pilgimage Through Prayer

2009-08-19T06:26:00.012-04:00

At times I find it hard to do it right.
I mean really focus or say the right thing.

Good news is, God isn't looking for me to do it right.

He isn't looking for me to say the right things.

All He wants is my honesty, humility and time...

Matthew tells the way the hypocrites and pagans prayed back in the day...standing in front of everyone so they could be seen...babbling on and on hoping to have their many words heard.

My Prayer is for our Unseen Father, to help me to pray not for the reward of others but for His reward. For Him to show me how to just talk to Him about life about the everyday stuff that I am happy about, confused about and dealing with. He already knows our every need even before we ask! So, see we don't have to do it right or have the right words cause He already knows it all.

He just wants us to be with Him!

In the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector we are told not to pray with pride, in a way that's all about us ie. Thank you that I'm notlike so and so... I' so glad I do this and that. We should Humble ourselves before the Lord and He will lift us up James 4:1. We/I need to be honest, open up about my stuff (cause remember, He does already know it) and trust Him. Lay my Pride aside and humble myself before Him.

I pray that you and I would quiet ourselves
and take time to spend with our God.
Go ahead... Nobodys watching but Him...It's quiet...
And the Lord who created You and wants to talk with you is waiting...

Sadness

2009-08-18T08:18:00.007-04:00

Well, as I just start getting the hang of this blogging thing and my camera broke! I am so saddened by this. I do have a few pics stored but what about those moments when I could capture something new, something special?

Just as a side note I think it was that darn Uno, the chick that has much attitude! I think it could quite possibly be a rooster, guess we'll see.

I was taking a shot of the six of them fighting over a nice juicy spider they scored and POP! A loud noise was heard and Uno seen running from the scene.

Bummer, slightly A typical chicken = broken camera

Today

2009-08-17T08:27:00.004-04:00

Is ...
beautiful
full of opportunities to praise Him
filled with moments to shine/glow for God

Thank You for allowing me to be a light for You!
Go before me this day and prepare me/them for each and every situation we come to encounter, help us to give you the glory for things you have done and things you are yet to do.

28-31

Gearing up for school

2009-08-14T08:15:00.006-04:00

Well now that I'm a seasoned homeschooler I guess it's quite alright that I just ordered the last of my curriculum needs yesterday. We plan to begin on 8/24 just 9 short days away. Wow! I didn't realize it was that soon even now :o

Faith and I are super excited about the 1st half of American History.

We have most of our books and can't wait to dig in!

Priceless...

We will, for the most part follow the county school schedule this year as my little guy is headed for kindergarden at our local charter school

:) :( Happy and sad times.

So cute...

I hope they're ready for him...

I think I will miss him a bit...

This will be a great start and you will have fun learning how to be a big kid!

I Love You Ty, I will be praying daily that you learn lots

and can come home and learn even more with us!

Construction

2009-08-12T19:03:00.005-04:00

Today we worked on the Coop Mahal, for our six little chicks!

I have a feeling they are going to be very spoiled.

Here is a taste of our day...

Still more to do but holy cow or chicken we sure got alot done!

Thanks to my hubby who didn't really want chickens to begin with.

A Pilgrimage into Prayer

2009-08-12T06:13:00.002-04:00

Into prayer?
Where is that? How do you journey there?

For me it's simply to begin...

To find a place, a spot to share
Sit down and think of you, right there
Begin to talk with you...
Give you my heart and open up
Yes, let you overflow my cup

When I make plans and meet you there,
that's the journey into prayer!

Six little chicks

2009-08-11T21:20:00.007-04:00

Today we got six 2 week old chicks. They are so cute and already loosing their fuzzy covering to be replaced with mature feathers. The particular breed we were able to get is the silver laced wyandotte which apparently will be a good egg layer. They will lay large brown eggs and are really easy going. "A favorite amongst backyard flock owners." They are a dual purpose bird, that is they are layers but also are suitable for meat. We will not be raising this six for meat however. For now we want to raise them solely for eggs and as backyard pets. Time to get busy on a coop as they will be old enough to stay outside in just 2 short weeks. I'll keep you posted on their growth and the coop progress.
This is a beautiful breed, I can't wait until their mature feathers are fully developed!

Our Unexpected Beginning

2009-08-10T20:54:00.002-04:00

My life so far has been a journey containing one act of faith after another. I won't go way back but just to the start of my adult life at the age of seventeen.

Two weeks after my seventeenth birthday I became the Mommy to a little life that challenged me to walk in faith. This was certainly not in the plan I had for my future, at least not this soon anyway! I grew up in a Christian home with a God fearing family surrounding me. My parents were just like yours and just like me now, trying their best to do this thing called life the best way they knew how. Looking back to me then I can see I searched for acceptance and love everywhere but up! God was there with me, just not part of my everyday life, it's like I knew Him but He just wasn't real to me yet! Do you know what I mean? Well, with that said I made choices that changed my life drastically.

I remember the day I found out clearly. It was after school one ridiculously hot summer day in Florida. We got in his rusty, gray clunker and headed for the department store pharmacy, he picked up a test and took forever to come out. I remember sitting in the parking lot with broken A/C and finally after what seemed like hours he was at the passenger door with THE BAG, the one that contained the answer to why in English class finals I had to run to the girls room multiple times, the one that would confirm my teachers hypothesis and the saltines she'd been giving me all week. Then with no warning he pulled out a baby toy, A BABY TOY! Are you kidding me? I had never been so disgusted. Right then that was not what I wanted to see, I was not excited about the idea of this nor did I want to even think about what it was going to look like being a mom.

So, we drove across town to the beauty salon my Mom worked at. I walked in and went strait to the bathroom... I sat by myself there and hesitated. This was going to be the rest of my life and I wasn't ready for it. I didn't know what was next. Well, I couldn't make it go away so I waited 3minutes and got the answer I knew was coming, POSITIVE... I was pregnant and my life was over, no more dreams of high school rodeo, no more teenage girl, no more beach with friends, no more life as I knew it. I cried and cried for longer than I can remember. I was young and scared and desperate and unequipped and disappointed and disappointed and disappointed.

As the weeks passed I worked part time at a local pizza place and oh my, do I remember the sickening smells. I would arrive at work, clock in, put on an apron and walk nauseous strait to the restroom, needless to say that didn't last long! I had the worst morning sickness I thought possible, 4-5 months worth. And I was beginning to realize what I had done.

I was going to be a Mom.
I was having a child... who would rely on me for her every need.

...to be continued

The many things I miss

2009-08-10T09:00:00.001-04:00

I didn't realize how many things I miss like...
#11-27

a dragonflies fragile wings
the strength in a thunderstorm
her sweet smile
the shine in my ring
cushions on the couch
coffee with cream
library cards
and simple dreams
muffins made from their little hands
the early morning hug from his little brown body
her eagerness to help
and his willingness to work yet not want
carpet shampoo
their imaginations
hot chocolate mustaches
kind words from a stranger
the smile of a friends heart

God don't let me miss anymore! I am so grateful for even the smallest of gifts you have shown to me. I love this life and can't wait to see whats next!

How the Word Lives

2009-08-05T08:00:00.003-04:00

The Word lives...
When I own it, When I decide to use it
When I look around me and see you,
When I sit quietly and listen...
to the maker of the universe
Listen to how much He loves me,
Listen to the words He has for me today

... be still and know that I am God

... test me on this...I will open the
windows of Heaven for you and pour out
all the blessings you need.

"You are my witnesses," declares the LORD,
"and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me
and understand that I am he.
Before me no god was formed,
nor will there be one after me.
Isaiah 43:10

Knowing your here

2009-08-04T19:54:00.002-04:00

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving in your heart, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6

When you feel the tension mounting, and across the busy day

only gloomy clouds are drifting, as you start to worry... Pray

~Anonymous

The past days are difficult,

I feel things building up,

And what do I do to fix it... clam up

I know how easy it is to hand over,

I've also felt my grip when letting go

but God if I'd just do it

in my life you'd show

Father calm my spirit, remind me you'll never leave

take my hand an hold it as I withstand this forceful breeze

Make me lie down Lord, in your pastures green

and smell the simple sweetness, from you I'll glean

Life isn't always easy, you never said It'd be

but promised to always be there

that's why you'll still find me

I thank God for His presence in my life. I'm not quite sure how things would have turned out had He not been there all along. When things get tough He doesn't budge! How I love knowing He is always here.

This can't make things worse!

2009-08-03T11:00:00.005-04:00

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

So, I've decided to start counting my blessings. I read this weekend that we really are made to worship and praise the Lord and what better way to do that than begin taking note of all the blessings around us. No matter how small or insignificant it may seem, the things God has placed around us and the moments He allows us to experience are meant for His Glory, for His praise!

Today I'm going to begin praising Him by recognizing His gifts to me and really to all of us! My goal is 1000 and I'm not going to set a time frame other than posting them every Monday. I'll count them and jot them down throughout the week then compile them all here. I can't wait to see how fast they add up! Here Goes!

1. Fresh cut grass

2. The Colors of the sunset

3. Quiet times

4. Red Lights which make me slow down and absorb the moment

5. A child's curiosity

6. The armor of God

7. Friends that love me like Jesus does, no judgement, no expectation, just unfailing love

8. Gods word which I am learning to buckle around my waist

9. Cool pool water in the heat of Summer

10. Time to take in the nature around me and fall in love all over again

The Word that Woos

2009-07-29T11:00:00.001-04:00

These posts are insired by aholyexperience.com I found this site and fell in love with it! Every Wednesday I am going to post according to the "challenge" found there.

oh lord, so amazing, so lovely, so strong yet gentle. lord you call me to yourself. draw me to your word that i might live, live life abundantly by your grace. great and mighty god i am so humbled that you would love me, love me enough to give yourself for me. that you have promised to never leave me nor forsake me. lord, remind me that you...

... know the plans you have for me. plans to prosper me and not harm me, plans to give me a hope and a future. then i will call upon you and come and pray to you, and you will listen to me. that i will will seek you and find you when i seek you with all my heart. you will be found in me, and you will bring me back from captivity. you will gather me from all the nations...

Jeremiah 29:11-14

Hello Again!!!

2009-07-28T13:42:00.000-04:00

I have had a new garden that has lived and died since my last blog! Wow a year already :o

How does your garden grow ?

2008-06-10T17:48:00.000-04:00

We planted our very first garden on April 28th and to date we've only killed a few plants. We have corn, cantaloupe, cucumbers, garden beans, tomatoes and 3 itty bitty oak trees.

Faith and Ty both love to see how big they are all getting, how those tiny seeds sprouted and are becoming actual productive plants!

Of course, the Oak trees will be huge when Bill and I are old and gray but, hey!

It's fun to think that we would have been

growing them almost out entire lives together.

2008-04-24T14:17:00.000-04:00

The Holy Alphabet

A lthough things are not perfect
B ecause of trial or pain
C ontinue in thanksgiving
D o not begin to blame
E ven when the times are hard
F ierce winds are bound to blow
G od is forever able
H old on to what you know
I magine life without His love
J oy would cease to be
K eep thanking Him for all the things
L ove imparts to thee
M ove out of 'Camp Complaining'
N o weapon that is known
O n earth can yield the power
P raise can do alone
Q uit looking at the future
R edeem the time at hand
S tart every day with worship
T o 'thank' is a command
U ntil we see Him coming
V ictorious in the sky
W e'll run the race with gratitude
X alting God most high
Y es, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...
Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!

'I AM Too blessed to be stressed!'
The shortest distance between a problem and a solution is the distance between your knees and the floor. The one who kneels to the Lord can stand up to anything.

Author Unknown