From Deidra's Heart

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T01:32:00.002-06:00

Well, 2010 certainly went out in a bang...at least in my little corner of the world. We had tornado warnings and torrential rain. Fortunately we had no damage...at least none we can see in the dark.

I am excited about 2011. I don't even know why, but I just have a gut feeling that this is going to be a good year.

Blessings to you all as we begin this new year together.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-31T11:23:00.003-06:00

We had a great Christmas this year, even if BK was sick with bronchitis (by the way, we all have it now). Our tree was surrounded by an insane amount of gifts.

This was the first year that Anne had a little one in the house for Christmas. We did it up right.

Jeremy, Angela and the grandkids came over for dinner on Christmas Eve. I bought a pre-cooked and sliced beef brisket at Kroger that was so easy and tasty. We also had mashed potatoes, creamed corn, green beans, BBQ meatballs (especially for Austin), dinner rolls and a Butterfinger cake for dessert.

When they opened their gifts, I think the Pillow Pets were the hit of the night. Everyone had a great time.

I got Jeremy a Grumpy t-shirt. Nuff said.

Thanksgiving - Day 30

2010-11-30T21:06:00.002-06:00

Well, today is the last day of the 30 Days of Thanksgiving project. I wasn't able to post every day, but 21 posts in a month is pretty good for me and hopefully I will be encouraged to write more often now.

Today I am thankful for Facebook. I know, it probably sounds nuts to some of you, but it has turned into more than just a "social networking" website for me. It is my connection to friends and family that I don't see often. Even with family members that I do see more often, it is still good to keep up with what is going on in their lives.

Facebook is also a great place to find out about where to find good deals. Last week I did some major online shopping and got most of my info there.

Tonight I saw that someone posted that Rudolph was on television. I didn't know that, so I quickly turned it on so BK could watch the rest of the show. I also posted a photo of BK in her new Christmas gown and a Santa hat, which generated lots of comments.

Since finding myself a single parent, my social activities have diminished greatly. I have to be home to get her to bed early every school night. Taking care of her is my priority. That leaves little time and energy for much else. So in a way, Facebook is my social life too...as pathetic as that may sound. I can keep in touch...feel connected...share a few laughs...and just have fun. And for that I am thankful.

Thanksgiving - Day 28

2010-11-28T21:53:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful for rest.

Sometimes we go and go and go, until we just can't go anymore. It is easy to get overwhelmed during this time of year as we contemplate gifts to buy and filling our calendars with places to go.

Tonight I sat in the dark living room, looking at the Christmas tree lights. What a peaceful time to rest and enjoy the quiet.

As the hustle and bustle of the season threatens to sweep us away, let's remember how important it is to make some time for rest. Our bodies require it and our souls crave it.

Thanksgiving - Day 27

2010-11-27T17:34:00.003-06:00

Today I am thankful for internet shopping.

After many years of fighting the crowds, I now do most of my holiday shopping online. I don't just shop for gifts, but other items including clothes, toiletries and over-the-counter medicine.

I replied to a Facebook friend's request for online shopping tips a few weeks ago, so I decided to post them here as well.

First, go to www.retailmenot.com to look for a coupon for the store you want to shop. When you find what you want to buy and are ready to checkout, there will be a place to enter a coupon code and it will deduct it from your total.

Next, go to Ebates and sign up here. Then when you get ready to shop, go to Ebates first and look at their list of stores, click on where you want to shop and you will automatically receive a rebate check for a certain % of what you spend.

Be sure to check out customer reviews. I have avoided some items because of bad reviews. Amazon.com is pretty good at having customer reviews, so I look there even if I end up buying on another website.

Amazon.com offers free shipping on many items if you spend at least $25.00. Sometimes I will pick out what I want and put it in my cart, but just wait until I have $25 of stuff so I can get free shipping. Coupon codes don't work there, but sometimes their prices are lower, so it's worth it.

There are also Facebook groups you can join that tell about great deals. If you are on Facebook, do a search for http://www.dealfindingchik.blogspot.com/ and go to their page to "like" it (click the like button). Then when they post deals, you will see their posts on your live feed.

Go to websites like www.Walgreens.com and www.CVS.com to sign up for their emails and then you will get info on their online sales and coupons. I just recently ordered four Pillow Pets from there. I got exactly which ones I wanted, had a coupon code to get $10 off a $50 order, they offer free shipping with a $25 purchase and I will get 4% cash back through Ebates...that's a deal!

I didn't venture out yesterday for Black Friday deals, but I was shopping the deals online. Cyber Monday promises even more online deals.

In this economy, when it helps more than ever to save where we can, I am very thankful for shopping that I can do in my pajamas.

Thanksgiving - Day 25

2010-11-25T09:23:00.002-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Instead of a list of things that I'm thankful for today, I want to focus on the One to whom I am thankful. Without the love of God, my life would be empty, regardless of the "things" I may have.

I am thankful that God loves us all enough to send his Son Jesus to live and die and live again so that we can be adopted into His family. I am thankful for His forgiveness and mercy. I am thankful that He knows my name and how many hairs are on my head. He knows what I will do and say before I do and say it...and He loves me anyway.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me.

Oh how I am thankful.

Thanksgiving - Day 23

2010-11-23T23:11:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful for the wisdom of my years.

One of my friends mentioned that it would be great to be 30 again. I agreed, but added that it would only be great if I could know then, what I know now. I have learned things after living fifty years that you just can't read in a book. Wisdom is a gift of a long life. After all, we have to have some compensation for wrinkles, right?

Thanksgiving - Day 21

2010-11-21T20:58:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful for my friends through the mail. I have had pen pals on and off since I was a young teenager. My first two were from Japan and Korea. Most of them have been from various parts of the U.S. This summer I decided to take up this "hobby" again and now I have four people that I write.

I think that writing honest to goodness letters is almost a lost art, especially with the instantaneous communication of email and Facebook, combined with the rising cost of postage. But there is something special about a letter. It is hard to describe the feeling I get when I open the mailbox and see a letter with my name on it. I consider it a gift that I hold dear.

Over the years I have gotten to know many wonderful and interesting people, who enrich my life. Hopefully I add some joy to their lives too.

Thanksgiving - Day 19

2010-11-19T06:50:00.004-06:00

Today I am thankful for good health care.

BK is sick again. It seems that this time of year she always has trouble with upper respiratory junk. I am so thankful that we are able to have her seen by her pediatrician and get the medicine that she needs.

When we lost our health insurance earlier this year, I wasn't sure what we were going to do. I did some research and found out that BK was eligible for CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program), which is a state program that provides health coverage for uninsured children. This has been such a blessing for us. She was able to continue going to her pediatrician and it pays for her medicine. It covers her dental care too.

I am still without health care, although I have found some alternatives. A free after-hours clinic has opened in the town where I used to live. It is staffed by local doctors who volunteer to see people who are working, but just cannot afford health insurance. I have also joined Christian Healthcare Ministries. This is a group of Christians who share each others hospital costs. There is a monthly payment, but it is much less than traditional insurance. I like the idea of us all sharing - kind of like the Early Church.

Thanksgiving - Day 16

2010-11-16T05:37:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful that I don't have to be perfect.

If you are following my blog, you will notice that I have already missed two days of this 30 Days of Thankfulness blog project. It's not that I was not thankful on those days, but rather that I just forgot. Once upon a time that would have bugged me immensely. But now I am much quicker to cut myself some slack, take a deep breath and move on.

Maybe that's just one advantage of getting older...or perhaps it is a gift of freedom from the bondage of perfectionism. Either way, I'm thankful that I can mess up and it doesn't have to mess up my whole day.

Thanksgiving - Day 14

2010-11-14T20:49:00.003-06:00

Today I am thankful for my daughter-in-law Angela on her 30th birthday.

Angela is married to my son Jeremy and they have four sons. Each of these boys is so special in his own way and I love them dearly. But I know that raising four boys is a LOT of work, at least if you raise them right, which she is doing. Angela is a stay-at-home mom and she keeps her household running.

Like so many mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relationships, ours has take a while to grow into friendship, but I am so glad that it has.

So here's to you, Angela on your special day. I tip my hat to you and say "Well done!"

I'm thankful to have you in my life.

Thanksgiving - Day 12

2010-11-12T21:08:00.002-06:00

Today I am thankful for adoption, for without it I would not have my beautiful daughter, nor would I be the daughter of a King.

What a wonderful thing it is to know that as Christians we are all adopted into His family, with a forever family and an eternal home.

Good stuff.

Thanksgiving - Day 11

2010-11-11T20:45:00.003-06:00

Today is Veteran's Day and I am thankful for the men and women who fight bravely and selflessly to ensure our freedom. I am proud to say that my Dad was a Veteran of WWII.

I am also thankful that there are still folks who are thankful for those who serve us by putting their lives in harm's way.

I will never forget the tragedy of the Vietnam War. I was a a teenager toward the end of the war and one of the things that haunts me to this day was seeing the way the service men were treated as they returned home...not as heroes, but rather to be blamed for the war. I guess those same people who were doing the hating forgot that many of the troops were drafted and did not even volunteer. They were simply serving their country.

Whatever we may feel or believe about war, the men and women who are willing to sacrifice anything in order to protect our way of life should be honored.

Thanksgiving - Day 10

2010-11-10T21:26:00.003-06:00

Today I am thankful for my glasses.

Since I have been wearing glasses over four decades now, I would venture to say that there were many times that I was not thankful for them at all. My vision is so bad that up until a few years ago, the lens in my glasses looked like Coke bottles (for those old enough to actually remember what a Coke bottle looks like). They were heavy and uncomfortable, not to mention UGLY. I look back at my school pictures and I see pair after pair of pitiful looking glasses.

I got my first pair of glasses when I was two years old. I'm told that on the ride home, I looked out the car window and saw all sorts of things that I had not been able to see without them and I was amazed.

Thankfully, my vision is fully corrected by glasses. Without them I'm sure that I have to be legally blind. So even though I've had a love/hate relationship with my glasses over a lifetime, I am truly thankful that I can see normally.

Thanksgiving - Day 9

2010-11-09T18:42:00.005-06:00

Today I am thankful for good Southern food (those of you who know me would expect this to make my list) and for those who know how to serve it well.

My Mother was a good cook. I've heard that her Mother was a good cook, as were Southern mothers for generations before them. Grits and eggs, homemade biscuits, chicken and dumplin's, sweet potato and pecan pie...good enough to make you eat another serving even if you're full...just because.

Here are a few tidbits about Southern cooks:

They hover around the table asking "What can I get you?" I'm not sure that my Mother ever actually ate a meal with us.

They LOVE to see folks enjoying their cooking. I think that while they are hovering, they might be listening for "yummy noises" too.

They never think that what they are serving is special. "Oh, it's just something I threw together!"

They always have something to "throw together" in case unexpected company shows up.

But the most important thing is that their kitchens are filled with love and that's usually where visitors like to hang out.

I'm thankful for my heritage of Southern cooks and I hope that one day my children and grandchildren will say that I carried on the tradition well.

Thanksgiving - Day 8

2010-11-08T06:24:00.003-06:00

Today I am thankful for friends.

Six months ago, I felt like my world was suddenly falling apart. I was scared and there didn't seem to be many options. Not only was I responsible for my own well-being, but for that of my small daughter as well. Did I mention I was scared?

I sent out some emails to tell a few friends what was going on. What happened next still makes me shake my head in amazement. Friends called...and emailed...and prayed...and encouraged...and offered all kinds of help...and gave money...and prayed some more...and helped me move...and opened their home to us...and spoke words of healing and hope.

I learned more about being a true friend during that time and I know that each of my friends are a blessing from my Heavenly Father who loves me dearly. And I am thankful.

Thanksgiving - Day 7

2010-11-07T00:43:00.002-05:00

(It's after midnight, so technically it's Day 7)

Today I am thankful that Daylight Savings Time has ended and I will be able to sleep an extra hour.

How appropriate that this happens on the Lord's Day...a day that He ordained for rest.

Thanksgiving - Day 6

2010-11-06T08:39:00.000-05:00

Today I am thankful for provision.

There are many people out of work these days. Even I was looking for a job all summer long...sending countless resumes and going to many interviews. But God finally opened the right door and, according to His plan, I am where I am.

Four days a week I work at a non-profit ministry that gives partial scholarships for leadership training in Africa. The fifth day I am the bookkeeper at a church. I have been placed in a Christian environment, working with people who love God and want to serve Him...it just doesn't get much better than that.

Jehovah Jireh...God my provider...I am thankful.

Thanksgiving - Day 5

2010-11-05T07:05:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for family...for my children and child-by-marriage...and their children...and my siblings and their children and their children's children.

My family gets together at different times during the year to eat and to have fun visiting. The food is always excellent (good cooking genes came from my mom) and the laughter is plentiful. There is ALWAYS something to laugh about...it's just what we do...and so much fun.

I love my family and I am thankful for each and every one of them.

Thanksgiving - Day 4

2010-11-04T08:09:00.003-05:00

Today I am thankful for Fall. It has to be my favorite season of the year.

All of the seasons are of God's design and bring good things. But Fall brings back fond memories of special times to me.

Crisp mornings and overall cooler temps, falling leaves, and upcoming holidays (including good food and family fellowship) are all reasons for thankfulness...and I am.

Thanksgiving - Day 3

2010-11-03T06:59:00.002-05:00

Today I am very thankful for good health.

Around mid-morning yesterday, I realized that I was getting sick. Before lunch the vomiting began and did not stop for hours. I will spare you the details of the rest of it, but suffice to say, I was a sick puppy.

I know that there are people who struggle with chronic illness and pain every day. That has to be a difficult life. I am so thankful that after the bug passed, I am back to my normal, relatively healthy self. I pray that I will never take that for granted.

Thanksgiving - Day 2

2010-11-02T09:30:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for the privilege of living in a country where I am free to vote my convictions.

It was raining as I pulled into the parking lot of the Community Center this morning. I had valid reasons for staying in the car. I had to be at work...and did I mention it was raining?

As I sat there trying to talk myself into waiting until later today (or quite possibly not voting at all...after all, it's only ONE vote, right?), out of the corner of my eye I saw a young couple walking across the parking lot, sharing an umbrella and pushing a baby stroller. Suddenly I felt a little embarrassed about my hesitation and crawled out of the car.

Voting is not convenient. There are often long lines and rain. But I smiled as I left the building this morning, proud of myself for making the effort, proud of the young couple for inspiring me, and proud to be an American, where my one vote does indeed count.

Thanksgiving All Month - Day 1

2010-11-01T22:44:00.006-05:00

I am taking a cue from a few of my friends who are posting 30 days of Thanksgiving this month. Of course there are multitudes of things that I have to be thankful for, so that part should not be hard. The challenge will be to actually log-in and post on my blog every day for 30 days. Once upon a time that was not a challenge at all, but alas, that was before Facebook stole my affection. So here is Day One:

I am oh so thankful for the children in my life. My precious daughter and four grandsons fill my heart with joy. Last Saturday I had a chance to babysit three of the four grands and we all had such a good time together. I will post some photos so you can share in the joy with us.

New Game

2010-10-25T22:55:00.003-05:00

BK and I have discovered Skip-Bo Jr. and what fun we have had playing almost every night.

Our friend Anne bought the game for BK and she has become quite the dedicated player. This is a great card game for her age. Not only does it reinforce number sequence skills, but it teaches strategy as well.

My two oldest grandsons came over last night and we taught them how to play. Before the first game was over, we were all laughing and having a great time.

I recommend this game as one to add to your family's game box. If you don't have a family game box, I recommend that you start one of those too. The memories that are made sitting around a table having fun together will last with our children a lifetime.

New Beginnings

2010-09-25T06:13:00.005-05:00

When I received a comment from a sweet friend this morning on my last post, I realized that it has been several months since I have written and my blog seemed to be in a perpetual state of mourning. An update is definitely in order.

Summer was a time of healing and self-discovery. Whenever there is a major change in our lives, I think it forces us to redefine who we are. I have come through all of this with a new appreciation of my determination not only to survive, but to thrive. However, I could not have made it to where I am in my journey without the Lord's grace and goodness as He watches over me. Good friends, lots of prayers mixed with hugs and laughs...this is the recipe for healing in community.

My circumstances are much better now. I was able to sell my house and I am working five days a week at a non-profit and a church. I am renting part of a house from a precious friend, who has become more like family to BK and me. I am at a new church that is closer to where I live and the Word, worship and fellowship there are changing my heart.

Change is never easy, but I am settling into my "new normal" quite well. I am content, at peace and very thankful.

The Death of a Marriage

2010-06-22T21:13:00.002-05:00

I have heard it said that divorce is like a death. I believe that is true.

When a man and woman commit their lives to each other, a bonding is suppose to take place. In Mark 10:8, the Bible says "The two shall become one flesh; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh."

When something happens to rip and tear them apart, it does feel like a death. The grieving is real. I am speaking from experience.

My divorce will be final this week. I neither wanted, nor expected my marriage to end, so I am having to face the reality of the situation. Fortunately, I have friends and family who are helping by offering their love and support. My faith offers hope when there doesn't seem to be any.

I understand that it will take time to process all that has transpired in the last few months. I am trying very hard not to let bitterness make a home in my heart, because in the end, only I will be hurt by its powerful effects.

But grieve I must...and grieve I will...for the death of the life I will never fulfill.

Looking For The Light

2010-04-09T12:58:00.002-05:00

It's dark in my world right now, but I am so glad that I know The Light.

Please pray.

I Am One With Him in Spirit

2010-04-02T13:30:00.006-05:00

But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit. (1 Corinthians 6:17 NIV)

I am united with the Lord, and I am one with Him in spirit.

I have been thinking a lot about freedom lately. It seems that there are so many people living in bondage - even in the Christian community. Freedom often seems like an elusive dream.

According to scripture, when we unite ourselves with the Lord, then we are one with Him in spirit. That is huge. Think about that for a minute. We are ONE WITH HIM.

I don't claim to understand everything that encompasses, but I know that even if I can't wrap my head around it completely, that doesn't change that fact that it is true.

I remembered another verse that goes hand-in-hand with this one.

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. (2 Corinthians 3:17 NIV)

If we are one with Him in Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom, then our freedom is fully secured through Him.

Right?

Then I can't help but wonder why so many of us are still in bondage. Is it just unbelief? Or could it be that the very thing that holds us in bondage is the thing that we depend on to help us make it through the day and we cannot imagine living life without it?

I am united with the Lord, and I am one with Him in spirit.

Spirit of the Living God
Break the chains that have me bound,
My heart's desire is to worship You
No other comfort can be found.

Spirit of the Living God
I need courage to depend on You alone,
These idols I've built in my heart
Have displaced You from the throne.

Spirit of the Living God
Who lives inside of me,
I want You to be my all-in-all
And make my spirit free.

I Have Been Justified

2010-04-01T19:05:00.003-05:00

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1 NIV)

I have been justified.

It is fitting that this particular post is being written today since tomorrow is Good Friday. My justification was purchased by Jesus when He died on the cross at Calvary. He willingly paid the price for my sin because I could not.

But before Good Friday, there was a Thursday night of betrayal and agony. He met with his disciples and revealed that one of them would betray Him. Then He took his closest friends to Gethsemane, where He agonized in prayer over what His Father was asking of Him.

"Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." (Mark 14:36 NIV)

He knew what faced Him. He knew the physical pain He would have to endure. He knew the crushing rejection He would face when His Father turned from the sin He would carry. He knew the fear and despair that His friends and family would endure.

He knew...and He obeyed.

I am so thankful for His obedience.

I am so thankful that I have been justified.

I Am a Friend of Jesus Christ

2010-03-30T00:15:00.002-05:00

I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. John 15:15 NIV

As a disciple, I am a friend of Jesus Christ.

Today I am pondering what it means to be a friend.

Friends want to be known and accepted for who they really are.

Friends want to spend time together.

Friends are there for each others when times get hard and to share a laugh when times are good.

Friends are loyal to each other.

Jesus is my friend and I am His...or am I?

I'm afraid that I am often found guilty of being unfaithful to that friendship, but He is always faithful. What an awesome privilege to call him friend.

I Am God's Child

2010-03-29T00:10:00.000-05:00

But as many as received him, to them gave he the right to become children of God, [even] to them that believe on his name. John 1:12 ASV

I am God's child.

As I begin the journey to rediscover my identity in Christ, I can't help but think how easy it is to be a little flippant when we utter those words - I am God's child.

I mean, perhaps it should at least give us pause to think about how wonderous it is to be a child of the Creator of the universe, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End.

He is my Father and I am His child. He loves me with an everlasting and unconditional love that will endure until the end of time.

I have access to Him 24/7. Not only can I go to Him with the desires of my heart, He wants me to depend on Him for everything...just as my daughter depends on me to take care of her.

The storms are raging in my life right now. Those close to me know that the future looks uncertain. I do not have all the answers. In fact, I'm not sure that I know all the questions.

But I am God's child and I know that He will take care of me.

For today, that is enough.

Who I Am In Christ

2010-03-28T14:26:00.002-05:00

Years ago, Mike and I discovered Neil Anderson's book Victory Over the Darkness. This is such a powerful book that discusses how Christians can find freedom from bondage through knowing their identity in Christ.

Bondage is such an insidious thing. It rarely attacks all at once, but rather beckons...entices...little by little, until a person has relinquished control and their freedom is stolen.

The world has other names for the condition, such as addiction, or even disease, but it is bondage. There are many things that people use to help them handle the stresses of life and to attempt to escape; cigarettes, drugs, alcohol, food, sex, even Internet "relationships."

The first step to find freedom is to realized (or remember) who we really are, because of who God is. Anderson compiled a list of Bible verses that affirm who we are in Christ. It is a great resource to read out loud daily in the process to renew our minds.

In the next few days and weeks, I will be featuring each of these verses. If you can't wait and want to see the whole list in it's entirety, click here.

If you would like to join me in the journey to rediscover who we really are and take back any area of our lives that the enemy has stolen, I hope that you will take a few minutes to leave some comments so that we can encourage each other.

Lord, You're Holy

2010-03-14T19:31:00.005-05:00

I love this song. It's one of my all-time favorites.

What makes this video even more special is that the woman who is signing the song has Down's Syndrome. Watching her sign and praise the Lord had me in tears.

What's for Dinner?

2010-03-10T21:11:00.003-06:00

This is a new recipe that I tried tonight. It came out pretty good.

Baked Chicken & Potatoes

2 - 3 lb. boneless chicken
3 large russet potatoes, cut in large chunks
1 can petite diced tomatoes, drained
2 tbsp. parsley
1 tsp. basil
2 tsp. garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
3 tbsp. vegetable oil

Preheat oven to 375. Place chicken and potatoes in pan. Sprinkle tomatoes, parsley, basil, garlic powder, salt and pepper over the chicken and potatoes. Lastly, sprinkle with the oil and grated cheese. Bake for 1–1 ½ hours or until chicken is done.

My CVS Deals

2010-03-09T21:11:00.003-06:00

I just LOVE a bargain! Today's deals came from CVS. Here is what I got:

4 boxes Kellogg cereal - sale price 4/$10 minus two $1 off 2 boxes coupons = $8, plus I got back $5 Extra Care Bucks (final price $3.00)

2 bottles Pantene shampoo - sale price 2/$6.97 minus $3.00/2 coupon = $3.97, plus I got back $2 Extra Care Bucks (final price $1.97)

This sale ends Saturday and the coupons I used came from the Sunday paper.

Have you found any good sales lately?

Free Samples

2010-03-09T15:14:00.001-06:00

Click here to get a free Spring Cleaning Gift Pack including:

• One box of Ziploc® Brand Storage Bags (quart size)
• One Scrubbing Bubbles® Toilet Cleaning Gel
• One pouch of Pledge® Multi Surface Wipes

Click below to get a sample of Dunkin Donuts coffee.

Faith Under Fire

2010-02-21T10:31:00.006-06:00

My friend Elysa and her family lost their home to a fire last night. She and her husband have seven wonderful children. This precious family loves the Lord and wants above all else to follow Him. I know that they would appreciate your prayers for the challenging days ahead.

I learned of the fire from Elysa's FaceBook post this morning, in which she was praising God for their safety and for His provision. She also told of the work that He had already begun in her heart to help her to be able to "let go of stuff and be ready to GO!" This is in reference to the mission work that she had done and plans to do in Swaziland, Africa.

One of the comments from her friends spoke to my heart: "Thanks for the gift of your faith and attitude!"

The more I thought about that statement, the more I realized how true it is. We all go through trouble of varying degrees every day. Being a Christian does not exempt us from problems, but the difference between us and the other people in the world should be our response.

Do we grumble, complain, whine, speak words of worry and fear?

I admit that I am guilty of doing this way too often.

What a gift we offer to our family and friends when instead we speak words of faith. Not denying our trouble or even our pain, but looking to Him to provide and work all things for good as He has promised us.

I am so thankful for the friends that God has put in my life who share this gift with me. May I be found more faithful to Him in sharing this gift with others.

Busy Day - Fun Times

2010-02-15T08:10:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was a day full of fun for Bonnie Kate. We met Angela and the Bubbies (my 4 grandsons) at Wendy's for lunch. After we ate, we had an impromptu birthday party for Seth, complete with decorated cupcakes. It's hard for me to believe that sweet little Seth will be four-years-old tomorrow. Of course there were Valentine's treats for everyone.

Then we headed to Pump It Up for another party. The birthday girl is one of BK's classmates. Kids absolutely love that place and BK had a blast. I have to admit that it makes me a little nervous, starting with the waiver that is required for admittance that said I would hold then harmless if my child was seriously injured or killed. Seriously.

Thankfully no one was hurt and a good time was had by all. I forgot my camera on my mad dash out the door, so no photos. :( I will try to do better.

Snow Day

2010-02-14T09:31:00.009-06:00

We woke up Friday morning to a Winter Wonderland. I don't think I have ever seen snow like this in Mississippi before. Schools were canceled and children played all around our neighborhood. Our electricity went off around 8:30 and I started wondering what we were going to do if it didn't come back on soon, since our gas heat is dependent on electricity to run. Thankfully it was only off about four hours.

Here are a few photos of Mike and BK playing in our front yard.

The trees were just beautiful, thickly covered with snow.

Of course, there has to be a snowball fight. Get ready.....

TOSS!

SPLAT! What a good sport Daddy is.

Here is BK with her first snowman. He only has one eye because one grape fell off and she couldn't find it. She was so proud of her creation.

The snow was still there Saturday too, so she was able to play again. I heard on the news last night that there was snow on the ground in 49 of the states. The government has no record of that ever happening before. So much for global warming...heh.

He Did It!

2010-01-19T23:05:00.003-06:00

Massachusetts voters sent a loud message to Washington today.

Let's hope that they are listening.

Find the full story here.

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!

2010-01-04T07:54:00.005-06:00

It is so hard for me to believe, but my angel-girl is five years old today.

When I think about the last five years, it is hard to even put into words what a blessing this little girl has been for her Daddy and me.

Happy Birthday my precious daughter!

Yummy Steak Pasta

2009-12-04T17:04:00.004-06:00

I got the inspiration from my friend Ashley (thanks girl!). I tweaked her recipe a little. This recipe comes together so quickly and is absolutely delicious.

Steak Pasta

1/2 lb. John Soules Beef Fajita Strips (these come frozen from Walmart or Sams)

Wide egg noodles

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 onion, chopped (I used frozen chopped)

1 1/2 teaspoons basil

1/2 t. garlic powder

1 can diced tomatoes

Parmesan cheese

While the egg noodles are boiling, heat olive oil in a pan. Saute the fajita strips and onion. Add the tomatoes, basil and garlic powder. After draining pasta, mix together with the meat mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Susan Boyle

2009-12-02T14:34:00.005-06:00

Susan Boyle had a dream. The forty-eight year old wanted to be a professional singer. When she arrived on the stage for Britain's Got Talent in April, the judges and the audience scoffed as she proclaimed this dream.

But then she opened her mouth to sing and the scoffs turned to amazement. Hers is truly a Cinderella story.

I was excited to receive her CD in the mail today that I ordered from Amazon.com. The CD was released November 23rd and became Amazon's best-selling album in pre-sales. Think about that for a minute...wow.

Try as I might, I cannot listen to "I Dreamed a Dream" (the title song) without tears. There is something about it that touches me deeply.

Inside the CD jacket, there is a quote from Susan: "I would like to dedicate this album to my beloved Mother, to whom I made a promise to be someone."

You are someone alright, Ms. Boyle, and we love you!

Christmas Fever

2009-11-16T23:53:00.002-06:00

I have always been a proponent of celebrating the holiday at hand instead of rushing on to the next. It always comes as a surprise to me when I see Christmas trees up in stores in October, even though I should be expecting it since it seems to get earlier each year.

However, this year I have been wanting to put up my tree for weeks. I don't know why, but it just seems like the thing to do. Normally I wait until the weekend after Thanksgiving. This year I will be out of town, so I am giving myself permission to put it up this weekend.

We always have so much fun decorating, especially now that BK is old enough to enjoy helping. Last year was the first time that she and I put the ornaments on together. We turn on Christmas music and pull all the decorations out - the old ones mixed with the new. So many old memories - mixed with new memories we will make this year. After the tree is all done, maybe we will make a batch of cookies - decorated with green and red sugar sprinkles, of course.

Christmas is a magical time. A time for kids and kids at heart.

No wonder I can't wait.

Beef Taco Bake

2009-11-16T23:43:00.004-06:00

I found a new recipe and tried it at a family gathering last night. Everyone said they liked it...I think it's a keeper.

BEEF TACO BAKE

1 pound ground beef

1 onion, chopped

1 can (10 ¾ oz) condensed tomato soup

1 cup chunky salsa or picante sauce

1/2 cup milk

8 flour tortillas (8-inch), cut into 1-inch pieces

8oz. shredded cheddar cheese, divided

3/4 can corn, drained

1 packet taco seasoning

1 t. cumin

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained

Cook the beef and onions in a skillet until well browned, stirring often. Pour off any fat. Stir in all the ingredients except for half the cheese. Spoon the beef mixture into a shallow baking dish. Cover the baking dish and bake at 400° for 30 minutes, or until the beef mixture is hot and bubbling. Take off the cover, sprinkle with the remaining cheese and bake another 10 minutes.

Faux Friends

2009-11-10T22:29:00.002-06:00

Online relationships are tricky. Whether it is someone from my past that I haven't had any contact with in years, or a family member that I don't see very often, or even people that I have never met in real-life, the way that people deal with each other online is often very different than in real life.

Since opening a Facebook account not so long ago, it has changed the way I see people and things.

For one thing, when we read things that others post to these websites, we start feeling like we know them better than we actually do. It is very easy (at least for me) to lower my barriers and to feel emotionally connected. This tends to give a false sense of security and makes it easy to believe that we are closer than we really are, therefore enabling us to think it's okay to share our hearts...when in fact it is not.

I am not talking about opposite-sex friendships leading to something inappropriate (although that danger does exist), but rather just a false sense of intimacy that develops...a faux friendship, if you will.

One such instance happened a while back, when I read a note that a relative had written on Facebook. This is a person that I love and respect and have enjoyed reading his writings very much. But I found the direction that his posts were going a bit disturbing. I sent him a message telling him that I was concerned for him and that I had decided not to read his posts for a while because I didn't seem to be able to keep from leaving negative/snide comments, so it was better if I just didn't read his posts.

Talk about opening a can of worms.

Not only did he amend the original post to blast me, but he sent me an angry message, bringing up all kind of things from the past that had nothing to do with this. I could only deduce that his intent was to hurt me, as he said that I had hurt him...and he was successful.

Should I have just kept my thoughts to myself? Probably so. But this goes back to the original subject of this post, which is that false sense of intimacy. I felt that I was close enough to him that I could speak my heart in love and that even if he didn't accept it, at least he would hear and understand my concern.

Boy, I could not have been more wrong.

What I heard him saying is that because he has made some gay/lesbian friends, now he is leaning toward the belief that their love must be pure and therefore accepted by God.

What he heard me saying is that I am threatened by all things homosexual and that I believe Christians should beat them over the head with their Bibles until they see what dirty sinners they are. (NOT)

Angry impasse.

*sigh*

Another situation just happened this week. I have been a moderator on a mom's forum for a few years. We post about many things on this forum, sharing details of our lives, offering advice and prayers, laughing and crying together. I've met many of the women through Mom's Night Out and different activities.

What I realized is that many of their children have had birthday parties in the last couple of months, but that BK had not been invited to any of them, even though they posted photos and it was clear that many of the other kids were there. So I decided to post and just ask about it...telling them that I was not upset, just curious.

A few people answered, but the one that stood out to me made it clear that we were just "online friends" and she felt that should explain it.

Wow. Seriously?

Okay, so now I am having to rethink all of my online relationships...and maybe some of my real-life ones too. Are they genuine or faux?

I'm not sure that I am going to like the answers. Suddenly I feel very lonely.

30-Day Giving Challenge

2009-11-10T04:03:00.004-06:00

I just "happened" upon a blog during the wee hours this morning. It is Keeping the Kingdom First, Balancing Faith, Family and Frugality. If you have never seen this blog, head over and check it out.

Alyssa was challenged by a message from her pastor to spend 30 days with a journal in hand and to document everything you give, along with the blessings that come your way. He went on to say that generosity is a Kingdom Dynamic. Read the original post here.

From this message, The 30-Day Giving Challenge was born. Even though I have missed the first week or so of the challenge, I'm jumping on board. What better way to spend Thanksgiving month than to give from the abundance that God has given us.

Let me know if you will consider joining this challenge. Be sure to take time to keep notes of your journey.

Raining Leaves

2009-11-07T22:59:00.007-06:00

Today was a beautiful fall day here in Mississippi. We typically don't have much of a fall...racing from summer's heat and plowing into winter's cold. So when the weather is this nice, we have to get outside to enjoy.

There are a lot of trees in our neighborhood. We have a few in our back yard and all of our neighbors have them in abundance. As I sat on our back porch and watched BK play, I could hear the wind coming through the neighbor's yard to the west of our house. Slowly the leaves began to rustle and then the tempo increased, moving closer and closer to our yard.

When the wind finally made it to our trees, the leaves started to flutter and rain down in our yard. BK was delighted. She squealed and she ran back and forth trying to catch them. Then as suddenly as it came, the wind moved on to the next neighbor's yard, sending their leaves flying as well.

I was glad that I had my camera in hand to capture the moment.

One more example of simple joy...experienced through the eyes of a child. What could be better?

Christian Homemaking Website

2009-11-07T13:49:00.002-06:00

Blair Massey has unveiled her newly updated Christian Homemaking website today. There are contests and give-aways every day through the 13th. Click here to head over to join the fun and register for a prize, which will be given away daily.

Deals of the Day

2009-11-06T12:40:00.003-06:00

I just love it when I can find a bargain. Here are mine for today:

Roaman's Bra Sale

Comfort Choice buy one, get one 50% off

I chose a bra for $22.99 and put two in my cart. The first listed as $22.99 and the second as $11.49. Then I searched on Google for a Roaman's coupon and found one on RetailMeNot for 30% off my highest price item. When I applied this code, it brought the first one down to $16.09. Total for my order (including shipping) $34.57.

Walgreens

1. Puffs tissues - 216 ct. box - regular 2.19 - with sale paper coupon 2/$3 (I had two .25 manf. coupons that I used) Total price for two boxes: $2.50

2. Bottled water - 24 16oz. - regular 4.99 - with sale paper coupon $2.99

3. Dawn detergent - 10.3oz. ultra concentrated - regular 1.59 - with sale paper coupon .99 (I had two .25 manf. coupons that I used) Total price for two bottles: $1.48

4. Wal-Zyr (generic Zyrtec) - 60 ct. box - regular $23.99 - buy one, get one free!

For more Frugal Friday ideas, head over to Life as Mom.

Cook Ahead - Roast

2009-11-05T12:36:00.005-06:00

When Kroger puts English Roast on sale, I buy a family pack of two roasts, which is usually .10 or .20 cents a pound cheaper than buying the single roasts.

I go ahead and cook both roasts (using an envelope of onion soup mix and a can of mushroom soup...baking at 275 for about 3 1/2 - 4 hours). We eat what we want for dinner, then I cut the leftover meat into bite-sized pieces, separating into several meal-sized portions and put in zip-lock freezer bags. I pour any gravy over the top of the meat and freeze. This usually makes at least three bags for three more meals.

When I'm ready to use one of the bags, I just put it in the crockpot frozen, add some baby carrots and peeled, chunked potatoes, and another can of cream of mushroom soup. I usually sprinkle some brown gravy mix over the top, then let it cook on low for about 6 hours - or until the veggies are done. Serve over rice.

For more make ahead meal ideas, head over to the recipe swap at the Life as Mom blog.

Spirit of Adoption

2009-11-05T12:06:00.017-06:00

For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!" Romans 8:15

Those of you who know me in real life, know that adoption holds a special place in my heart. My sweet girl was given to us through adoption and I can't think of a more selfless gift.

We made the decision when she was very young that we would tell her early that she is adopted. I want her to grow up knowing that she was chosen and that she is loved very much.

Sometimes she and I talk about adoption. Today it was about a baby kitten being adopted. We talked about the baby kitty needing a family...and a family needing a baby kitty...so they took the kitten home with them to love and be a part of their family. Then I reminded her that she is adopted and that her daddy and I brought her home with us to love her and to be a part of our family...forever.

She looked at me with those beautiful brown eyes and said "Mommy, do you love me in your heart?"

I had to swallow hard before answering to keep the tears at bay because she wouldn't understand them.

"Yes sweet girl, Mommy's heart is full of love for you."

I am thankful for the gift of adoption. For the opportunity to mother this precious angel. And for my own adoption that makes me the daughter of the King.

The Spirit of Adoption is sweet and precious...and forever.

Chili and Cornbread

2009-10-24T18:57:00.003-05:00

I woke up from a late nap today and realized I had nothing planned for dinner. After a quick perusal of the pantry and freezer, I came to the computer and Googled "ground beef" and "Jiffy cornbread" and instantly found several recipes. I grabbed this one for Chili & Cornbread.

I tweaked the recipe a little and it turned out so delicious... definitely a keeper. It could be made spicy, but I like it mild so my four-year-old can enjoy it too.

CHILI & CORN BREAD

1 lb. ground beef

1 onions, chopped (I used about a cup of frozen onion/green peppers)

2 cloves garlic, crushed (I used 1 tsp. garlic powder)

2 tbsp. chili powder

1 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/4 tsp. oregano

1 tsp. cumin

1 tsp. vinegar

1 (1 lb.) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (1 lb.) can kidney beans, undrained

1 pkg. Jiffy cornbread mix (small)

Brown ground beef with onions and garlic; drain. Add chili powder, salt, pepper, oregano, vinegar, stewed tomatoes and kidney beans. Simmer, stirring occasionally until liquid is reduced and thickened.

Put in an 8x8 dish. Mix cornbread according to package and cover chili mixture with it. Cook according to package directions or until cornbread is golden brown and done in the center. Serves up to 4.

The recipe can easily be doubled. I will make this again and I think I will at least triple the meat mixture and freeze in meal size pans. Then when I'm ready to cook, I will defrost and mix the cornbread for the topping for a super quick meal.

Chilly Weather = Soup

2009-10-19T07:50:00.002-05:00

It is much cooler than usual in the deep south this morning. Temps are about 20 degrees below normal. Of course, I am enjoying it because I'm a cool-weather kind of girl.

Last night I started thinking about soup, so I looked through my recipes to see what looked good. I found this recipe and I'm planning to cook it tonight. I don't think I have tried it before, but it looks really good.

Please feel free to share your favorite soup recipe in a comment.

CREAMY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP

4 cans (10 oz ea) Rotel (or 2 cans diced tomatoes & 2 cans Rotel)

4 cans (14.5 oz ea.) chicken broth

1 can (30 oz) refried beans

1 cup frozen corn

4 cups shredded cooked chicken

Tortilla chips

Shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Put tomatoes and broth in large pan. Stir in beans and corn. Bring to a boil; Simmer on low 5 minutes stirring frequently. Add chicken; heat through. Top with tortilla strips or chips and cheese.

Facebook

2009-10-16T08:06:00.004-05:00

I resisted getting a Facebook account. I really did. My thought was that I didn't really need another website to have to "babysit" everyday. But when I finally caved in and opened an account...well...now I'm addicted and I love it.

I like connecting with old friends and family members. I like being able to share photos and anecdotes of my life, as well as reading those of my Facebook "friends" (that term is used loosely, because I've never met some of the people on my Facebook list).

How people interact with each other has always been interesting to me. Being involved on this social networking website has been an eye-opener. I can't help but wonder how many relationships have been effected by Facebook...for better or worse.

If they post often, then I am able to get to know the people on my friends list...what is important to them...and what ticks them off. This can be a good thing...or a not-so-good thing. Sometimes people look so much better from afar, you know? Of course, I suppose it's entirely possible that it goes both ways, as others get to know me better as well.

In this age of technology, which makes it easier than ever to stay in touch, it seems that people are becoming more disconnected from each other. Facebook helps me feel connected to my people. And that is a good thing.

Benji

2009-10-04T13:31:00.003-05:00

Bonnie Kate watched her first Benji movie last night. Apparently the little guy has not lost his appeal all these years later, because she loved the movie.

Of course, part of that is that she just loves dogs...and all things dogs.

I decided to go on eBay to see if I might be able to find her some Benji movies for Christmas. There is a set of four DVDs that I'm bidding on. The bid is under $4.00 right now and the auction ends tonight.

Wish me luck.

By the way...who could say "no" to these eyes?

Rotisserie Chicken Meal X Two

2009-10-01T12:41:00.005-05:00

I love rotisserie chicken. It makes a quick, easy and yummy meal. And when you can pick one up at Kroger for $4.99, that makes it pretty inexpensive as well (I've priced whole chickens and by the time you add all the spices and cook for several hours, I don't think you would come out much cheaper by doing it yourself).

But what makes this purchase even more frugal is the leftovers. Let me tell you what I did this week.

1. After we had a meal from the chicken one night, I picked off all the meat and stuck it in the fridge.

2. I dumped the rest of the chicken in a pot, covered it with water, and cooked on low heat for about an hour and a half.

3. Using tongs, I took out the bones and strained the liquid (this makes great homemade broth for soup or to cook with). At this point, I froze one container of broth and refrigerated a little over two cups.

4. Before discarding the bones, I examined them to see if there was more meat that I could remove.

5. The next day, I cooked a cup of rice in 2 1/4 cups of broth, along with the chopped up leftover chicken, for 25 minutes (thankfully, I realized that I had not salted the broth, so I added some salt).

6. After I turned off the heat, I let the pot sit, still covered for about 5 minutes. Then I stirred in about 1/2 can cream of mushroom soup.

Voila...meal number two!

You can also add cheese on top and stick it in the oven until melted. This is a comfort-food dish for me and an old stand-by for anytime I have leftover chicken and want a quick meal.

So there you have it...the tale of the two meal chicken. If any of you have more ideas on using leftover chicken, I would love for you to leave a comment.

Lovin' Ms. Dale

2009-09-30T09:15:00.004-05:00

BK absolutely LOVES her preschool teacher. When I dropped her off this morning, she saw Ms. Dale standing down the hall, so she jumped out of the car and ran to her.

As I was driving off, I could see BK giving her a big hug. That does this mama's heart good to know that my baby is being loved and cared for so well.

Yesterday was Ms. Dale's birthday, so BK took her a gift and I took decorated cookies so they could have a party. It was a good day.

Smart Girl

2009-09-28T23:11:00.006-05:00

My sweet girl loves to draw. Give her a marker and paper and she is ready to get to work. She writes, draws, colors, makes up stories, draws some more...

At least until the little stuffed puppy shows up...

And jumps on her head...just because little stuffed puppies are like that.

Tonight, after she beat her Daddy at Bingo, she ran in to get her drawing board and wrote her first sentence (without our help).

In case you need help deciphering, it says "Bonnie Kate win at Bingo." I think that's pretty good for a four-year-old.

Angel Food - October

2009-09-28T08:43:00.004-05:00

You can find details about Angel Food Ministries on their website. You can also search for a pick-up location near you.

Here is their $30 box for October:

1.5 lb. New York Strips Steaks (3 x 8 oz.)

1 lb. Steak Fajita Strips

2 lb. Chicken Stir Fry Skillet Meal

1 lb. Lean Ground Beef

1.5 lb. Breaded White Meat Chicken Tenders

1 lb. avg. Center Cut Ham Steaks (Hickory Smoked)

1 lb. Bake or Fry Fish Sticks (32 sticks)

1 lb. Pasta

25 oz. Marinara Sauce

1 lb. Frozen Baby Lima Beans

1 lb. Frozen Mixed Vegetables

2 lb. bag Fresh Apples (8-10 ct.)

10 ct. Flour Tortilla Wraps

32 oz. 2% Shelf Stable Milk

Dozen Eggs

Dessert

Christian Women Online

2009-09-12T08:55:00.001-05:00

I found a great website: Christian Women Online. You will find article on relationships, living well, recipes and much more. Check it out today.

Pioneer Woman - New Recipe Website

2009-09-06T14:22:00.004-05:00

I love The Pioneer Woman. For those who have never heard of her (are there really people out there who have never heard of her?!), her name is Ree and here is how she describes herself:

"I’m a thirty-something ranch wife, mother of four, moderately-agoraphobic middle child who grew up on a golf course in the city. I attended college in Los Angeles and wore black pumps to work every day. I ate sushi and treated myself to pedicures on a semi-regular basis. I even kissed James Garner in an elevator once. Then, on a brief trip to my hometown, I met and fell in love with a rugged cattle rancher. Now I live in the middle of nowhere on a working cattle ranch. My days are spent wrangling children, chipping dried manure from boots, washing jeans, and frying calf nuts. I have no idea how I got here…but you know what? I love it. Don’t tell anyone."

The Pioneer Woman website is wonderful. It is full of humor, recipes, beautiful photos and stories of life on a cattle ranch that will leave you smiling and wanting more. Her reader base is incredible and once you check out the website, you will know why.

Today I saw that there is a new website called Tasty Kitchen. It is a site where all of Ree's readers can submit their own very favorite recipes. You can search for a specific recipe, or browse by category. I looked though a few and boy do they look good!

Ree also has a cookbook that will be released in October and you can check it out here.

School Girl

2009-09-06T00:59:00.002-05:00

BK started Pre-K this year. She goes three half-days a week. Two weeks have passed and she is still as excited to go every morning as she was the first.

On Tuesdays they alternate going to Music one week and Computer Class the next. On Wednesdays, she is enrolled in an extra-curricular activity, TOT Basketball. On Thursdays, they go into "big church" and worship. Every day brings a new adventure.

Her teacher is a very sweet lady, who turns out to be a friend of a friend...it is truly a small world. BK is already crazy about her and she is making new friends.

I think this will turn out to be a very good year for her.

Frugal Advice

2009-09-06T00:47:00.007-05:00

A friend asked for frugal advice for a friend of hers who wants to be able to quit work and be a stay-home mom. I wrote some things for her and decided to share it here.

~My strategy on groceries is to stockpile when on sale, preferably with coupons (however, oftentimes store brands are just as good and are cheaper even without a coupon). I keep up with the prices and when there is a good sale, I stock up on those items, then the next time there is a sale, I stock up on the sale items that week (for stuff I know weuse all the time). Using this method, eventually I don't have to buy much of anything unless it's on sales, because stores generally put about the same items on sale in a predictable cycle.

~Cut down on eating out. When you do eat out, use coupons or even go to www.restaurant.com and buy gift certificates cheap (they put them on sale for 80% off), so you can have a $35 meal and pay $10 for it. If you are married, or have kids, share meals. Always get a to-go box and take leftovers to eat for another meal.

~If you take over -the-counter meds regularly, check out www.cvs.com to sign up for their online ordering sale emails. I take Prilosec every day and the generic is just as good. Sometimes at cvs.com they put all their CVS brand items on sale for 50% off. If you order $50, you get free shipping, so I stock up on that and allergy meds. Great deals!

~Look around your house and see what you can sell. If you don't love it and haven't used it in a year, get rid of it. Craigslist.com is great for that. I have sold tons of stuff there, mostly BK's clothes and shoes she has outgrown. Better than eBay because you don't have to worry about shipping. Also, when you get ready to buy something, check out Craigslist first.

~Take advantage of the library. You can search your local library system online to see if they have a book (or DVD) you want. If you see it listed at another library, they can order if for you and call when it arrives. If you want to buy books, check out www.amazon.com. They sell used books cheap.

~Look for free or cheap community activities for kids. In Rankin Co. you can go to www.rankinledger.com and click on Plan Ahead to see what's going on.

~Don't be too proud to shop garage sales and thrift stores. I went in the local Goodwill a few weeks ago and found my husband 5 name-brand dress shirts and a pair of dress pants that looked brand new...in fact one still had the original tags on it. The total was going to be about $20, but when I got to the register, she said that adult clothes were 50% off that day...so I walked out paying $11 and change for all that. I was a happy camper. I have found BK lots of cute clothes there too.

~Plan your menus ahead...a week...two weeks...or even all month. Make a list of meals that your family likes. Print out a blank calendar and fill in the meals. Plan to use leftovers creatively too. Have breakfast one night a week...even if you use a whole dozen eggs, that's usually under $1.50. Plan a meatless night too. There are great recipes out there.

~Cooking ahead and freezing helps for busy days...you know, those days when you would normally go thru the drive-thru because you don't have time to cook. The easiest way is to double or even triple your fav recipes and freeze the extras. Label them and make a list of what you have in your freezer so you won't forget. Plan your menus around what is on sale. You can even make a game of it...see if you can make dinner for under $5. Yes, it can be done. Check out www.5dollardinners.com for recipes and great ideas.

Things That Bug Me

2009-09-05T12:25:00.005-05:00

My son Jeremy told me this morning that I need to blog. I have been having serious writers block for a while now. Not because I don't have anything to say...quite the opposite. But rather because I try to keep my posts positive for the most part...and unfortunately these days I'm not feeling very positive.

I have decided to just go ahead and write about some things that are bugging me and then maybe that will clear the air to move on to better things. So here they are, in no particular order:

~The President is planning to speak to students at school next Tuesday. I, along with many other concerned citizens, have a problem with this. If the President has a burning desire to speak to the children of this country, then he should do so in the evening when their parents can be present. If I had a child in a public school that is planning to show this speech, they would be staying home that day.

~It was announced this week that the Duggar family are expecting their 19th child. While I know that I would not be an effective parent for that many children, apparently the Duggars have a God-given desire to accept with open arms as many gifts as they are blessed with. Yes, this goes against everything in our society that tells us to have 2.5 children and then stop, but it seems to be working for them. As far as I know, they are not taking any form of public assistance, so it amazes me how many people are so negative about their extra-large family. I read where someone this week called them freaks. The bigger outrage should be for the countless women who have multiple abortions. Why is that okay in so many people's eyes, when large families are not? Makes you think, doesn't it?

~Facebook is my favorite social networking site these days. It enables folks to stay in touch, even if they live far away...or just across town. I also think it's a great place to throw out topics for discussion. It is interesting to me to hear what others think and to get a chance to post my own opinions as well. Some people are intimidated by this process and become upset if others don't agree with their point of view. This week I had a comment deleted because the person didn't like what I said about the President, I guess. Debate is a good and healthy thing, as long as all are respectful of one another.

~Another note about Facebook...folks need to remember that even though they might be close enough to family and friends to be able to tease them in real life, comments made on Facebook can be hurtful and embarrassing...much akin to public humiliation in many cases, especially since all of both people's friends can read the comments.

~Since when, in a country that prides itself on freedom of speech, does it make us "right-wing terrorists" if we dare to speak against the President's radical agenda? This is still America, right?

~The last thing that I want to mention is that customer service stinks in most places these days. Case in point: I just got home from doing some errands and while I was out, I ran by Krystal. The woman at the window was in a bad mood and argued with the man ahead of me, so he drove off without getting his food. After I got my food and drove off, I realized that my Coke was not a Coke...or either their machine is messed up...in either case, I couldn't drink it. I drove back and went inside. After telling them that I just wanted my money back, I had to stand there for the longest time and I observed the young woman behind the counter slamming food in bags. It was obvious that she was in a bad mood too. I pondered asking for the manager, but then she came out to give me my money and fairly threw it across the counter at me, so I didn't think that it would do much good to talk to her about the lack of smiling service.

Another place that gets a zero on friendly service is our local water department. The women who work there look like they have been sucking on sour pickles and they don't even say anything when I go to the drive-thru. No greeting. Take the payment. Process the payment. Drop the receipt in the drive-thru drawer. Walk away. Heaven forbid anyone should call there with a concern about their water bill! I guess they feel like they don't have any competition, so they don't have to be nice.

Whew...okay...I feel better for getting all that off my chest.

Maybe next time I can be a little more cheery.

Thursday's Thoughts

2009-08-13T12:47:00.003-05:00

Okay...I know that it has been several weeks since I have written anything. I'm not sure if anyone will even read this because they have probably long since checking to see if there is anything new here. It's not that I don't have anything to say (just ask my husband). I think the big culprit is Facebook. Whenever I get a spare minute, that's usually where I am...reading friends' updates and playing Farm Town (my latest stress reliever/obsession).

So today I am going to attempt to get back into a routine of posting regularly. I do miss writing.

Last night at church, my pastor said something profound that has been knocking around in my head all day. He asked us what we are doing in our lives that is so big and so impossible that we couldn't even dream of doing it if God didn't do it through us. He went on to say that if we could not answer that question, then we were probably not in God's will (my paraphrase).

As Christians, we are all ministers. We don't have to be ordained to share the good news. We don't have to Pastor a church to change lives. We don't have to have a PhD to make a difference.

What is your passion? It is possible that as you read this, God will bring to your mind something that has been burning inside you for a long time. Isn't it time for us all to step out and do something for the Kingdom?

Photos From the Trip

2009-07-23T17:43:00.007-05:00

Here are a few of the many photos I took on our coast trip.

This is BK's first look at the beach.

This silly girl likes to have fun wherever she is!

BK dressed up like a train engineer at Lynn Meadows Discovery Center (LMDC). This is an absolutely awesome place for creative play.

Dressing up for a tea party at LMDC.

BK was amazed that the ball was suspended by the air coming from this machine at LMDC.

BK on a ride at Chuck E. Cheese.

There was an indoor pool at the hotel where we stayed, so BK and her Daddy got to swim every day. That might have been the highlight of the whole trip.

Extended Vacation

2009-07-19T20:09:00.003-05:00

We have been planning and canceling vacations for four years now. Something always comes up that gobbles up whatever little money we managed to put back for fun. This summer, we finally decided to go down to the coast for a few days, just to get away before Mike has to go back to work.

About an hour before we got there, it started to rain and storm on us. Finally it was raining so hard that I had to pull over in the middle of nowhere, at a dump of a convenience store, to try and wait for it to pass because I couldn't see. While we were sitting there, my windshield wipers broke. I mean really broke...stuck together in the middle...bent...then finally would not move at all.

I called AAA and told them where we were and they said they could send a truck to tow us, but only two of us could ride in the truck with them. So I waited until the rain wasn't so hard and got back on the road...without wipers...in the rain. It was only about 4 miles to a Goodyear, but it felt like 100 miles, going 35 miles an hour with my flashers on.

The Goodyear folks said that the whole wiper assemblies were stripped and of course NO ONE had them in stock. They called two salvage yards, but they didn't have them either. We were planning to come back Sunday, but they said that if they order them they next day (Friday), they won't be there until Monday.

Not wanting to drive home and chance getting into rain, we had to extend our trip by a day. Who would have thought after a month of drought, it would be rain that messed us up. We tried to not not worry too much about it, and stopped by K-Mart to buy some Rain-X, so that if it rained on us over the weekend it wouldn't be so bad.

All of that aside, we have really had a great time. Friday we went to Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. That was the first time I have ever been there and I was SO impressed! BK had a great time and cried when we had to leave. It was full of fun things to see and do. Of course we went to the beach and took some pics. But probably the most fun thing has been that there is an indoor pool here at the hotel, so they have been swimming every evening.

I have been snapping photos all weekend and I will try to get some posted when we get home tomorrow.

Swap-bot Swapping Fun

2009-07-12T10:50:00.008-05:00

I learned about something new yesterday. Swap-bot is an online community of folks who love to swap. Here is how it works: A member decides to coordinate a swap, so they create a post describing the details, such as what will be swapped, when the items must be mailed, if it is USA only or international and how many swap partners you will have. Then you can search the list of swaps and find the ones that might interest you.

I just opened my account, so I have not had a chance to look at all the swaps yet, but here are just a few that I have seen:

Postcards

Handmade Cards

Bookmarks

Stickers

Socks

Recipes

Poetry

Magnets

Stationery

There are many, many more than I can list here. If you would like to check out Swap-bot, the website is: http://www.swap-bot.com/

My New Addiction - Farm Town

2009-07-12T10:43:00.003-05:00

When I opened a Facebook account a few months ago, I had no idea that I would find a new "hobby" that would take up so much of my time. Farm Town is a game that is so much fun.

I started out with a small parcel of land (12X12) and eight plowed fields. I planted and harvested until I saved enough coins to upgrade several times. Now my farm is 20X20 and full of all kinds of growing plants, trees, flowers and animals. It's really cool!

Living a Simple Life?

2009-07-02T11:35:00.005-05:00

Unless you live in a cave somewhere, you have probably heard about the trend toward living a simple life. I don't know if it took the economy taking a nose-dive, or what, but it seems like everywhere I look there is something about living a simple life. One of our Associate Pastors even preached on it at my church last week.

My introduction to the simple living concept came from Shane Claiborne, author of The Irresistible Revolution, Living as an Ordinary Radical. If you haven't had the chance to read this book, you should consider doing so, but be ready to have your nice comfortable Christian world rocked.

My struggle is trying to figure out what a simple life would look like for me. I don't consider my life to be extravagant by any means. That is when I compare myself to the American standard. However, if I compare my life to the lives of the millions of people worldwide who live in utter poverty, then it seems that I probably do live in excess. Having too much "stuff and things" is not living simply.

But it isn't only possessions that complicate life. It is activities as well. So many things to do, so many places to go. Even good things like church can become a burden when there are services three times a week and meetings in between.

I think about how I've heard that life used to be. Neighbors knew each other. Families and friends stopped by to sit on the porch and visit for a while. When there was a need, folks pitched in to help each other. People worked hard, but I'm sure that they slept well at night (without the aid of sleeping pills).

It's very hard not to get caught up in the American way of life: A full Day-Timer + lots of stuff, stuff and more stuff = Happiness

Maybe it is time to reevaluate our priorities and make some changes. Putting first things first...sounds pretty simple, doesn't it?

Learned Something New Today

2009-06-30T14:16:00.002-05:00

My family loves baby carrots. We eat them raw...plain or with ranch dressing used as dip...and we eat them cooked...steamed, then topped with a little butter and brown sugar or honey. There is usually a bag or two of baby carrots in my refrigerator veggie bin.

But I did not know until today that not all baby carrots are baby carrots.

HUH?

Yeah, that was kind of my reaction too. It seems that some (probably most) baby carrots that we buy are actually baby-cut carrots, which are cut down from larger carrots. Supposedly, if they are not true baby carrots (those who are harvested while still young) it states "baby-cut carrots" on the bag.

Apparently there was an email going around telling people that baby carrots were not safe to eat, but Snopes debunked that. If you are interested in reading about the process that is used to make baby-cut carrots, click here.

Now you learned something new today too.

This public service announcement was brought to you free of charge. : )

Bread Store Savings

2009-06-27T11:34:00.004-05:00

I stopped by the bread store today while I was out and boy did I stock up! Here is what I got:

2 big loaves Bunny bread

1 loaf Bunny Texas Toast

1 loaf Nature's Own Cinnamon Raisin

3 loaves Cobblestone Sourdough

1 pack dinner rolls (24)

Grand total?

$10.59!

That's what I'm talkin' about. : )

We are eating more sandwiches these days, mainly because it is so hot and cooking just makes the house hotter, but also we are trying to cut down on our fast-food drive-thru consumption to save money. It seems like I am always buying bread, so this should hold us for a while. I will freeze most of it and pull it out when we need it.

As you can see in the pic, I'm not the only one that is happy.

Free eBook!

2009-06-26T15:04:00.011-05:00

You can't get much better than free, right?

The publisher of Tom Davis' new book, Scared: A Novel on the Edge of the World, has decided to offer (for a limited time) a free download of the book. My friend Elysa has read the book, which is set in Swaziland, Africa, and she LOVES it. You can download your copy here, or click on the photo of the book. Please let me know how you like it.

By the way, some of you might remember me telling you about Elysa's mission trip to Swaziland with her two daughters last year. Well, her 14 year-old daughter just left with a team going back there for several weeks. Please join me in praying for the team as they minister there...and for their families that they left behind.

You Know it's Really Hot When....

2009-06-25T12:34:00.001-05:00

I went to Sam's today and when I started to leave the man at the door who checked my receipt said "Have a cool day!"

Ha!

Yeah...I guess if I can manage to have a cool day in this heat, then it goes without saying that it will be a nice day.

Agents of Change

2009-06-24T12:24:00.005-05:00

If you have read this blog for very long, you know that I am pro-life. I have volunteered at the Center for Pregnancy Choices (CPC), but I have not stood on a sidewalk outside an abortion clinic. Not that I'm saying that there is anything wrong with those who do...in fact, lives have been saved thanks to those people.

However, I realized a long time ago that just talking someone out of an abortion cannot be the end of it. Christians must be willing to do more than that to truly make a difference. Many times the decision is made to end the life of a child because of financial hardship. This has to be especially true in these economic times.

I received an email today from Bryan Logan, a Board member of ProLife Mississippi. I called to make sure that the email was legit and it is. Here is what he said:

"I talked a young lady out of an abortion on June 3rd and took her to the CPC. She already has a 1 year old, 3 year old, 6 year old, and 13 year old. She does not have a car large enough to transport her children and lives in an apartment that has a washer and dryer hook up, but is in great need of a washer and dryer. These two factors (car and no washer and dryer) were the deciding factors that sent her to seek an abortion. I have told her that I'm sure there are many Christian people that will help her. I told her let's first deal with the washer and dryer problem, and then the car. We have to trust in God and take baby steps. Does anyone know somebody that would donate a new or used washer and/or dryer to this family. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated."

How about we put our money where our mouths (and convictions) are and be agents of change? I am posting a link to my PayPal account to make giving easier. On June 30 I will be sending all donations received to ProLife MS to help this woman on her journey. I will update to let you know how much we gave.

As the Nike commercial says...Just Do It!

Babies and Memories

2009-06-22T23:52:00.011-05:00

My new little great-great nephew was born today (boy...that makes me feel OLD). I just saw some photos of him and he is a precious little doll.

Whenever I see pics of little ones, it always makes me think about Bonnie Kate and remember what she was like as a baby. I went in search of her early photos and found a few of my favorites.

Bonnie Kate came here wanting to talk. In this photo she was about two months old and already carrying on a conversation...in her own language, of course.

Check out the curl on the top of her head! I'm sure that I will have to answer for that one day...lol.

A friend brought the bib to Bonnie Kate from New Orleans. It said "I can't talk yet, but I have an attitude." Boy, was that the truth...and still is!

Here is out little ballerina in training...searching for just the right toy.

Ahh...success!

You have no idea how many photos I had to take to get this one. She was eleven months old her first Christmas and fascinated by all the gifts and decorations on the tree. Our sweet Bonnie Kate was our best gift ever!

First Day of Summer and It's HOT!

2009-06-21T19:37:00.002-05:00

I have lived in Mississippi all of my life, so you would think that I would be used to the weather here. But y'all, it is hot...and it's been hot for a while now, even though summer officially started today. The high today was close to 100, which even by our standards is hot.

Compound that with the fact that the air conditioners in both my van and house are not working great and it's looking like a long, hot, miserable summer.

Waaaaaa!

These are the times when I dream of moving somewhere cool...somewhere north of the Mason-Dixon line. I'm sure that I would want to high-tail it back this way with the threat of snow storms in the winters, but OH would I enjoy the summers!

Swimming Fun

2009-06-18T09:25:00.002-05:00

BK and her Daddy got a chance to swim while visiting my sister Diane this week. She had such a good time and felt very brave with her floaties...and Daddy at her side. : )

VBS 2009

2009-06-14T08:12:00.011-05:00

I took BK and my grandsons to Vacation Bible School last week and it was such an awesome experience for them. We went to a different church because BK isn't old enough yet for the VBS at our home church. From beginning to end, I was so impressed. Things were well organized and everyone seemed to have had a great time. Here are some highlights.

First of all, the kids were not separated into age groups, but rather into small groups called Families, with older kids mixed with the younger ones. I like this because the big kids are able to help with the little ones.

They had their gym set up with tents that made it look like a marketplace. The kids got three coins each day to spend in the marketplace, where they could chose from several really cool crafts.

The theme was Rome: Paul and the Underground Church. BK came home the first day bubbling over about everything that happened. She told me that there was a man in chains and a very grumpy man. I found out later that it was Paul in chains and his guard Brutus. Everyday the kids would visit Paul, who told them about Jesus and the underground church. By the end of the week, Brutus wasn't grumpy anymore because Paul talked to him and he decided to follow Jesus. We had to get a pic with Paul and Brutus.

One day they brought animals in for the kids to pet and play with.

Another thing that impressed me was the number of adults volunteering to help. This is a relatively small church and normally has about 60-70 kids attending VBS. This year they topped 100. I heard that they had about 50 adults helping. Some of these folks use vacation time to take off work to participate.

But probably the most important thing that I noticed was how they loved the kids.

During their song time one day, BK had a meltdown. They made two long lines facing each other and at several times during the song they walked forward to clap with anther person. BK didn't have a clapping buddy and she just lost it. The Children's Director happened to be walking by and jumped in to be her clapping buddy.

My youngest grandson is three and not quite old enough for VBS. I brought him with me every day so he wouldn't feel left out and had planned for us to hang out together and find something to do. One of the VBS teachers noticed him and asked if he could be in her group. So every morning, she came looked for him and took him to her group. He was super excited to be a part of it all.

The other grandsons and BK's group leaders were a sweet couple who had so much patience with them and really seemed to enjoy their time with them.

Friday night during the closing celebration, they all sang their songs that they learned during the week. They also made decorated "chariots" from large wagons and they had a parade across the gym. Thanks to the sweet group leader, my three-year-old grandson got to sing and be in the parade with the other kids too. He was so happy to be a part of the festivities.

There is no way to measure the impact that those five days will have on all of the children's lives. VBS is more than just a place for frazzled parents to drop off their kids to have a break for a few days. It is a great place to teach about Jesus. But more importantly, it is a wonderful way for adults to show Jesus' love to the least of these. Thank you all for a week that none of us will ever foget!

And they'll know we are Christians by our love...by our love

Yes, they'll know we are Chrisitans by our love.

Why is it Important?

2009-06-10T10:35:00.004-05:00

I've been having an interesting dialog/debate recently about how we as Christians are to react to people (especially other Christians), who are living in sin. Actually, the discussion began earlier than that...and we could not reach common ground to agree on whether certain "lifestyle choices" are sin or not.

He brought up some good points about there being so many rules and laws in the Old Testament that we do not practice today, and how over the years the Christians seem to have picked out the ones that they want to continue to observe, but disregarded others as archaic. This made me think...and that is always a good thing.

So moving past that issue, what are we to do about sin in the lives of believers?

Do we welcome all people into our church family, regardless of past and present behaviors?

Do we not only preach God's love and grace, but be Jesus with flesh on and show them love and grace?

Do we love them so much that we tell them the truth about what they are doing...how it is damaging them and hurting God's heart?

Are we all accountable not only to God, but to each other as well?

Is that judging? Maybe it is. But we have a whole book of God's standards to follow. Why would they have been given if not for us to learn, live, teach and obey?

Do we have a sin problem in the church? You betcha. God calls us to be a sanctified people...most of us have a long way to go. But I believe that one of the duties of the church (and I'm speaking of the church body...not the church organization) is to encourage each other in holiness.

The dialog/discussion left me feeling a little frustrated and I'm afraid it left the other person feeling a little sad and disheartened. It's easy to want to say let's just forget about the whole subject and talk about something else. But it is too important to do that.

I think that we are in the last days and as time goes by it will get easier and easier for folks to be deceived. We have to know what we believe and why we believe it...and have the courage to speak up...even to other believers.

Lives are at stake. Souls are at stake. Eternity is at stake.

I would love to know your thoughts. Please leave a comment.

The Voca People

2009-06-05T09:00:00.004-05:00

I saw this cool video posted this morning. Here is what their website says:

The Voca People is a new international vocal theater performance that combines amazing vocal sounds and an acapella singing with the art of modern beat-box which imitates the sounds of drums, trumpets, guitars and other instruments and musical effects without using any musical instrument on stage, performed in a humoristic way and with audience participation.

Truth

2009-06-04T08:45:00.005-05:00

In this age of tolerance and acceptance, it takes courage to stand up and speak the truth. It seems that more and more Christians are willing to buy into the idea that there is no absolute truth. We are told that we should not judge anyone for their life choices, but rather embrace diversity as an opportunity to grow. When we do take a stand, then we are labeled as fundamentalist fanatics, or even accused of sowing seeds of hate.

People want to point out that Jesus loved all people...and that is true. But while He was loving them, He also said "Go and sin no more." That's the part that tends to get left out. Sin is a dirty word that most folks would just as soon not think about.

The Bible tells us to love others as we love ourselves. What we don't have to do is try to understand why they are doing what they are doing, or be their best friend. It is time for truth to be spoken about blatant sin, especially in the lives of other believers.

Here are just a few examples...

Abortion is not an "elimination of unwanted fetal tissue," but rather murder of the most innocent and helpless.

Homosexuality is not an "orientation," but rather a perverted attempt at illegitimate intimacy.

Adultery is not a "mid-life crisis," but rather a violation of a sacred marriage covenant.

Let's just call it what it is and stop trying to sugar-coat it. If the foundation is truth, then whatever is built upon it will be strong.

Angel Food May

2009-05-30T10:02:00.007-05:00

It has been a while since we have purchased food from Angel Food. I think the main reason is that the last time we went to a distribution site that was very disorganized and it involved standing in a LONG line in the heat for over an hour. But we discovered a new site that is very close to where we live and we picked up the food today. If you are interested in seeing the menu for June, or want to find a distribution site near you, click here.

Here is what we got for $30.00:

2.5 lb. Lean Chopped Beef Steaks (5 x 8 oz.)

5 lb. Leg Quarters

2 lb. Chicken and Corn Bread Stuffing Casserole (Ready to Cook)

28 oz. Salisbury Steak Dinner Entrée

1 lb. Boneless Pork Chops (4 x 4 oz.)

1 lb. Corn Dogs (6 ct.)

12 oz. Deli Sliced Honey Ham

5 oz. Chunk Light Tuna in Water

32 oz. Frozen French Fries

1 lb. Frozen Sweet Corn

15 oz. can Musselman’s Apple

Sauce

15 oz. can Pears

8 oz. Dinner Roll Mix (Makes 8 Nice Rolls)

7.5 oz. Mac ’n Cheese

32 oz. Borden's 2% Shelf Stable Milk

Dozen Eggs

Blueberry Pie

What A Day!

2009-05-29T22:15:00.002-05:00

My appointment to see the orthopedic doc about my shoulder was this morning. I was already in a twit before I even got there...worried about what was going to happen. Then when I pulled into the parking lot, I almost lost it. Every parking spot was full and I joined ten other vehicles circling around slowly...doing our best vulture imitation...watching eagle-eyed for an open space.

Finally...FINALLY...five minutes late for my appointment...out of the corner of my eye I saw reverse lights as a car backed out. Ah..ha! I quickly zipped over and captured my prize...albeit a little crooked because the parking space was in the wrong direction...but nothing that a little reverse-forward-reverse-forward wouldn't fix.

When I made it inside, I realized why the parking lot was full. I think that half the population of Jackson must have been sitting in the waiting room. Thankfully they were not all waiting to see my doctor, but still.

After filling out what seemed like enough paperwork to begin work on my autobiography, I settled in for the wait. Fast forward and hour and a half later and I'm in an exam room sweating bullets. The doc finally makes his appearance.

The bottom line was a shot or an operation. I chose the shot. I'm not sure that I made the right decision...especially when they walked in the room with the syringe with a six-inch needle! Okay...so maybe I'm exaggerating a little...but not much. I pray that I NEVER have to go through that again. It was bad. It was beyond bad. It is almost eleven hours later and my shoulder is still hurting.

So now I wait and see what happens. If you think about it, please say a prayer for me that I don't completely fall apart anytime soon.

Ouchies and Summer Fun

2009-05-28T08:48:00.010-05:00

I have been having some physical problems for a few weeks and everything else has kind of been pushed to the background. Something is going on with my shoulder that is causing much pain. It's my right arm, so at times I am limited in what I can do with it...including getting dressed and working on the computer...not good. I have been to my family doctor about it and he has given me some medicine that works short-term, but now I have to go to an orthopedic doctor...yuk. Hopefully something will get resolved soon.

Then last week I endured a torture session of having an ingrown toenail surgically removed and I'm still having to take care of that until it heals. I won't go into any details about all that, but suffice to say that it was not pleasant, although the doctor and her staff were super nice and attempted to make me as comfortable as possible. The doctor had a great sense of humor too and that always helps. When she started the procedure, I told her I was going to close my eyes. She said, "Oooo...me too!" Ha!

Our summer calendar is filling quickly. I bought advanced movie tickets for the 10 summer movies the local theater is offering for 50 cents each and I will be taking BK and all four grandsons. We have done this for several summers and it's always a lot of fun. I also have them all enrolled in Vacation Bible School in a couple of weeks.

Last night, we started the Wednesday night summer activities for all of them at church. We pick the boys up and eat at the church (if you have never taken five children out to eat, you haven't lived). Fortunately, they are all good kids and I don't have any trouble with them. Then they all go to their classes. The two older ones are playing Bible Baseball, which is a cool game that encouraged the kids to learn Bible Trivia (hmm...is anything in the Bible considered "trivia"...well...you know what I mean) and then afterwards they go to a fun activity like skating or swimming or a baseball game. The BK and the 5-year-old have classes where they hear a lesson, make crafts, sing songs and basically have a blast. The "baby" (he's 3, so not a baby anymore, but I guess he'll always be the baby) goes to nursery and plays.

BK will be taking a six-week dancing and tumbling class this summer on Tuesday nights. This will be her first time to do anything like this and she is SO excited.

The Summer Reading Program will start in June and will meet every Thursday night. They have fun programs planned with magicians and clowns and many more fun things. We love the Children's Library at our local library and go to story time once a week. BK has grown so much in the two and a half years that we've been going...and I don't just mean growing up. I started taking her before she was two years old and while she had fun, she was so shy and didn't want to get far from me. Now she is so outgoing and has so much fun singing and dancing, sitting on cushions listening to Ms. Mara read, making crafts and exploring the books to pick out a few to bring home each week.

Here are a few pics from a few weeks ago at the library. They made paper-plate turtles and finger painted.

The Long and Short of It

2009-05-21T12:02:00.004-05:00

Check out BK's new haircut.

Here is before.

Here is after.

She looks so grown now. Oh my, where did my little girl go?

Sometimes It's The Little Things

2009-05-19T21:39:00.002-05:00

Once upon a time, there was a very shy young woman in her early 20s. Although she was intelligent and could very well have done anything with her life that she dared to dream, her lack of self-confidence was crippling. Married at 17 and with a baby at 18, her path seemed to have been chosen and her destiny set.

Who is this young woman? She could be one of many, many young women who find themselves in seemingly hopeless situations because of bad choices, either their own, or others that are out of their control.

But this particular story is mine...and it could have ended very differently if not for the concern of another woman.

I don't exactly remember when I first met Ms. Jean. She was an older lady who attended my church. For some reason, Ms. Jean made the decision to befriend a shy and sometimes sad young woman.

I can remember going to her house for visits. She was such a lovely lady...filled with the love of the Lord and southern hospitality. We would sit talking and that is when she began to speak words of affirmation into me.

Her words were not flowery nor meant to flatter. She simply went about the business of helping me to see that I was competent and well able to do whatever it was that I wanted to do.

You know, a funny thing happened. I started to believe her. A tiny little light flickered inside and hope was born. I ventured out a little and found success. Eventually I ventured out a little more and found even more success. If I ever doubted myself, I would see Ms. Jean's face as she she said matter-of-factly, "You can do it." Even all these years (decades) later, I still hear her words from time to time.

This friendship had such a profound impact, I cannot imagine what my life would be like today if Ms. Jean had not taken an interest in me. And it makes me realize how much little things can mean to someone. When we share ourselves to invest in others, lives can truly be changed.

If you could find the shy young woman in our story, she would tell you that it's true.

Preparing an Emergency Go-Bag

2009-05-12T10:00:00.004-05:00

For years I have read about the importance of putting together a "go-bag" - an emergency kit that allows you to relocate quickly in case of an emergency or disaster. While I already have most of the recommended items in my house, they are not all together in one place and would take time to assemble...time that I might not have in an emergency situation.

Rod Ellis wrote a great article explaining in detail how to prepare a go-bag and how the items in the bag can be used. I am determined to get our go-bag ready...just in case...and this article is proving to be an enormous help. If you are interested in reading it, click here.

Trying Something New

2009-05-08T09:22:00.008-05:00

Sometimes I just get tired of cooking the same things. Yesterday we took a rare trip to Sam's. They have some neat things there...I could spend WAY too much money if I'm not careful.

Here are a few things that I got:

There was a lady giving away samples of this wonderful fajita meat. One taste and I was hooked. This is a 24 oz. package of steak, flame broiled and seasoned to perfection. Warm it in a pan for about four minutes and you are good to go. I love fajitas, but I don't fix them much because Mike doesn't like all the veggies that I use. I knew that I could use this meat for other things, like yummy steak salad. When we got home from Sam's, it was past our dinner time, so I had to fix something quick. I grabbed a bag of frozen hash browns and put them on the stove to cook. When they were done, I warmed up the meat and put it on top, with a side of corn. Quick and delicious! This is not the most frugal alternative ($8.66 for 24 oz.), but I can get at least two meals from the bag and I figure that's not too bad for steak of this quality and convenience.

I haven't used this cornbread mix yet, but it looks SO good. It's a 5 lb. bag and will make five 8x8 pans, all you add is water. There is also a recipe on the back for a cornbread loaf that is baked like bread in a loaf pan. I can't wait to try this...maybe tonight. The cost breakdown is $1.25 per pan.

BK is so excited about this treat...Del Monte Fruit Chillers. There are 28 in the box and they are 24 cents each. The box is sold on the shelf and you freeze when getting it home. It says that there was 3 1/2 lb. of fruit used for each box, so maybe they will be more nutritious than Popsicles.

Broken Shoelaces...and other Emergencies

2009-05-02T13:55:00.003-05:00

Lesson From a Broken Shoelace

by Blair Massey

It was 6:30 in the morning and my husband was getting ready for an early morning business breakfast meeting. He looked sharp in his blue shirt, navy blue tie and charcoal grey suit.

I was heading downstairs to get our coffee when I heard a loud moan from the bedroom closet. My husband's shoelace had broken. Fortunately I was prepared. I immediately went to the utility room and retrieved an extra set of laces that I had purchased when I bought the shoes. My husband threaded them into his shoes, grabbed his travel mug of coffee and flew out the door to his meeting.

There is a valuable lesson to be learned from this broken shoelace. Being prepared can prevent big headaches. If I had not purchased that extra pair of laces my husband would have been late for an important meeting, and that would not have looked good at the office.

While no one can anticipate every need or emergency, it is possible to be prepared for most situations. When I worked outside the home I had a job in outside sales. Because I was meeting new clients all the time I always had to look my best. In my desk I kept a pair of hosiery, a small bottle of hairspray, a comb, lipstick, an umbrella and clear nail polish (for fixing runs in my hosiery). In my car I kept a road atlas, a flashlight, batteries, road flares, water proof matches, change for bridge tolls, a rain poncho, a blanket, jumper cables and a first aid kit. To this day I still keep these items in my vehicle.

As the manager of my home it is up to me to make sure that I am adequately prepared for emergencies, whatever they may be. Here are a few examples of the things I have done.

Placed a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
Put together a first aid kit.
Created an evacuation plan and kit.
Placed emergency phone numbers in an easy to find location.
Have several homemade dinners in the freeze for times when we are down with the flu or we come home late from an activities
Kept up on the laundry, ironing and mending so that my family has the clothes they need when they need them.
Have an ample supply of shampoo and soap so that no one is caught in the shower without them.

Being prepared doesn't mean that you need to start a stockpile of toilet paper (although having a good supply in each bathroom can be very important!). Rather, being prepared is about understanding the needs of your family and then making sure that you have the necessary items, like extra shoelaces, available to meet those needs. This is just one of the ways that, as the manager of your home, you can make your home a blessing to all who live there.

Christian Home Living expert Blair Massey publishes the popular Christian Homemaking newsletter with over 20,000+ subscribers. If you're ready to get organized, manage your time better, and provide a peaceful, beautiful home for your family, sign up for her FREE newsletter now at www.christian-homemaking.com

Silent Hunger

2009-04-29T23:19:00.003-05:00

"Hunger is a universal experience. Television, newspapers, and magazines bring wide-eyed and sunken-cheeked faces from around the world into our homes and our hearts, and we are grieved. yet even those of us fortunate enough to have an abundance of food are hungry. We sit down three times a day to tables laden with food, but our deepest hunger is not satisfied.

Each of us has a hunger deep within where no one can see. And although it may not be obvious, this hunger is the most universal of all. It is the silent hunger of the starving soul. It is silent because we don't recognize it or have words to describe it; silent because it has been muted with years of behavior designed to still its voice; silent because the noise of our world prevents it from being heard.

But this hunger cannot be completely silenced. It cries out to be heard. It is our compelling desire to be loved, protected, and considered precious. It is a God-given hunger for genuine intimacy wherein our deepest needs for security and significance can be substantially met."

From the book Get Thin Stay Thin (formerly Silent Hunger)

Who Meets Your Deepest Needs?

2009-04-28T11:27:00.003-05:00

Wow...what a question, huh?

I found this article by Jimmy Evans today and it hit me squarely between the eyes. Here is an excerpt:

"No human being can meet your deepest needs. Only God can. Of course, if you are operating in God’s will, you can find someone who will encourage you or who will be God’s vessel to help you experience love in a real way. However, even the most spiritual person on earth is very mortal and, therefore, quite limited. When you put too much hope in a person, you are always headed for disappointment and sometimes even for disaster!"

Read the full article here.

Family Ties

2009-04-26T08:04:00.005-05:00

I grew up with the heart of a nonconformist. I've always had my own ideas about life. I question traditions and cringe at the words "We've always done it like that before." My response is always to ask WHY do we always do it like that.

At times, I have resented my family putting their two cents in my personal life. I figure that I'm grown and can make my own decisions...after all, it is my life, right? If I was cautioned about a certain decision that I was making, it was easy for me to disregard their advice because I would think that they just didn't understand.

Recently I have been remembering something my Mother used to tell me, "Nobody will ever love you like your family...NOBODY."

I've thought a lot about that lately.

It finally occurs to me that our families know us, love us and more than likely have our best interest at heart. If cautions and warnings are uttered, especially if the whole family feels uneasy about it, then maybe it would behoove us to pay attention and not just think that they are trying to rain on our parade.

Often we cannot see the forest for the trees. When we are in the middle of our stuff, emotions come into play and we can lose objectivity. Sometimes it is easier for others to see what we cannot see. It is during these times that wise words, spoken in love, can be very helpful...and might actually save us from heartache down the road.

Honey Wheat Rolls

2009-04-24T12:40:00.007-05:00

Since I got my Kitchen Aid last year, I've had fun experimenting with bread recipes. I believe that it's more frugal to bake my own bread than buy it (not to mention better for us because of the lack of preservatives).

I found this recipe today for honey wheat rolls and had to give it a try. They turned out really good. This recipe made 15 good sized rolls. I didn't brown them too much, so that I could freeze most of them and then pop in the oven when we want a few with a meal. The recipe is below.

For many more frugal ideas, head over Life as Mom: Frugal Friday.

Honey Wheat Rolls

Ingredients:

1 packet yeast

1/2 c. warm water (120 degrees)

1 1/4 cups warm milk

1 egg, beaten

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1/4 cup honey

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 cup whole wheat flour

3 1/4 cups bread flour (approximately)

Directions:

1. Dissolve yeast in warm water in a small bowl.

2. Place all ingredients except for flours in the Kitchen Aid bowl.

3. Mix ingredients and then add wheat flour.

4. Slowly add white flour until the dough begins to pull away from the bowl.

5. Knead with the Kitchen Aid for about 4-5 minutes. Cover with a clean dish towel and let it rise for about 45 minutes.

6. Remove the towel and knead for about 45 seconds.

7. Using kitchen shears, cut off pieces and shape into rolls by pulling the dough into balls, with smooth side facing up.

8. Place on lightly greased cookie sheets; turn on the oven just until you feel heat, then turn it off immediately. Turn on the oven light and put the cookie sheet in the oven for 1 hour to rise.

9. After the rolls rise, leave the pan in the oven and turn it on 350 degrees. Bake 15-20 minutes, or until desired brownness.

Plan B - What Are They Thinking??

2009-04-23T18:19:00.002-05:00

Well, it's official...your 17-year-old daughter can now walk into a pharmacy and buy the Plan B "morning after" pill...without a prescription...and without your knowledge or permission.

According to an article on the U.S. News website, the judge who directed the FDA to make the Plan B drug available to 17-year-olds, also ordered the FDA "...to review whether emergency contraception can be made available without any age restriction." (Read the entire article here) If that is approved, then even very young teenagers will have free access as well.

I am unapologetically pro-life. These pills are clearly an abortifacient. Assuming that conception takes place, Plan B will induce an abortion of the fertilized egg. This is wrong. But even if I did not take that stand, I would still think that this decision is not right, because I do not believe that underage children should be able to have access to drugs without their parents' consent.

By the way, some of the side effects of using these pills are:
Nausea
Abdominal pain
Fatigue
Headache
Heavier Menstrual Bleeding
Lighter Menstrual Bleeding
Dizziness
Breast Tenderness
Vomiting
Diarrhea

So, 17-year-old Sally takes the pills, ends up very ill...and her parents have NO IDEA WHY.

This is just one more step in the direction of taking away our parental rights. How long are we going to just sit by and watch it happen?

Chick-Fil-A Funny

2009-04-22T14:26:00.003-05:00

I don't know if I would go quite this far...but I do like Chick-Fil-A a lot. And not for the reason you would think. It's not even necessarily the food (although their Cookies 'n Cream milkshake is to die for). It is because of their superior customer service and clean restaurants...both of which are becoming harder and harder to find these days.

Interesting Websites

2009-04-21T01:00:00.003-05:00

I came across a couple of websites that my fellow frugal friends might appreciate.

The first is an article on the AARP website called 50 Thrifty Ideas. These are ideas submited by members...and we all can use a few tips about saving money these days. You can read it here.

The next website offers a whole page of different free online courses. Once you register for a class, the lesson is sent to you via email. You can learn about anything from Web Design to Heartburn 101...and everything in between. You can access this website here.

Invisible?

2009-04-18T12:50:00.005-05:00

I read an interesting question on my friend's blog today. She wrote about which super-power that she would pick if she could and her choice was to be invisible. Then she asked, "If you are not seen, are you really even there?" (Read the question in context here).

My comment was that yes, we would be there even if we were not seen. Then I started thinking more about the subject and I had a couple of thoughts.

The first is that I heard someone once say that our bodies are "temporary earth suits." I've always pictured myself as one day being able to "unzip" this earth suit and the "real me" step out when I die...the part of me that will live eternally...the part that is who really I am. When we die, I believe that our spirits leave our bodies to go to live at the place that we chose when we were alive (Heaven or Hell).

Humans cannot see spirits leaving the bodies, so at that point we are "invisible"...only the shell of our bodies are left behind. Now, there are those who think that our spirits can somehow get "stuck" here and wonder around as ghosts. I don't believe that to be the case because I think it contradicts the Word of God.

My other thought is that many times we live as if we are invisible...as if God cannot see everything we do, hear everything we say and know every thought that we think.

Finally, is it possible that the unseen is more real than what we see? (So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. II Corinthians 4:18 NIV)

Hmm...now that is something to think about.