Healthy Soul and Body

Progressing Upward!

2012-01-22T13:09:00.000-08:00

After being on a monotonous plateau for weeks on end, I can excitedly say that we have achieved some forward progression.

With a twinkle in my eyes and goose bumps on my arms, I am elated to report that my daughter can definitely hear better! I have had nothing monumental or even note worthy to share about her implant journey for 5 or 6 weeks. However, I am now busting at the seems to give God the glory on three specific happenings within the past few weeks.

Just two weeks ago, Adam was in his room making some boy noises while playing with his Legos. Victoria was reading in the family room, which is approximately 25 feet from his room. After a few moments, she asked what the noise was. I had to stop and listen and then commented that it was probably the humming from the ceiling fans. She seemed puzzled but went on reading. She then insisted that it couldn't be the fans and asked where Adam was. When I told her he was in his room playing, she stated that she heard him making noises! I was shocked considering the distance to his room. When Adam came out of his room, she asked him if he was making noises with his mouth. He sheepishly answered yes and wanted to know how she knew that. SHE HEARD HIM!!

Episode number two...Victoria was at home alone while I was with Adam at guitar lessons on Tuesday. In a panic, she began texting me to tell me that she heard a very loud popping sound. It eventually frightened her since she had no idea what the sound was or where it was coming from. The texting went on for 5-10 minutes as I tried to assure her that it was probably the freezer or the ice maker. She even called me asking if I could hear it through the phone. Finally, with much glee in her words, she texted me to say she had found the sound - it was my crockpot lid "popping" since it had moisture around the edges! I was flabbergasted when I walked into the kitchen and heard the sound myself. Why, you ask? Because it wasn't loud or irritating or scary. I just cannot believe she heard that from her bedroom and considered it loud!

She is also more aware of environmental sounds and actually asking me what they are - a definite positive step in the right direction!

Okay - are you ready?

Here we go for the grand finale. Sit down for this one because you'll want to stand and scream "GLORY" after you read this!

We were at a friend's house in the kitchen while Victoria was in their family room watching a movie. She could not see me at all. I wanted to ask her a question, so I called her name. I expected her to answer me and then, like normal, she would have to come into the kitchen to see what I wanted. However, this time proved to be different. I called her name and she answered, "What?" Then I asked, "Are you crocheting?" She responded with a no. Then I said, "Well, you need to crochet that white flower for the headband so that it will be ready for tomorrow." In case you didn't catch that last sentence - that was a LOT of words for a deaf person to hear AND understand. Remember, she can't even see my body much less read my lips. Bear in mind that this has never, ever happened before. Here comes the GLORY part - not only did she hear me AND understand me, but she answered me with, "Ok, I will make it when this movie is over." ARE YOUR GRASPING THIS???

The four of us at the table just sat there for a second in disbelief and complete amazement - I just had a two-person dialog with my deaf daughter from another room! The goose bumps were huge on my arms and then I realized...she has finally accepted the implants. She is embracing them and utilizing them to their fullest capacity.

It was worth it.

Patience and perseverance did shine through - and with vibrant colors!I am so very proud of my little princess. So hard to imagine that God loves her more than I do!

Traditions!!

2012-01-08T14:58:00.001-08:00

I absolutely LOVE traditions.

I love old ones.

I love flexible ones.

I love new ones.

I love the ones shared with friends and family

And I love the ones with just our family of five.

A very special lady in our life, whom the kids reverently call Nap Nanny, gave us this tiny tree with 12 little boxes and 12 miniature ornaments as a means for a countdown to Christmas about 10 years ago. It holds a very special place in our heart - not only because of whom the giver was, but also, the memories that have taken place because of this little tree.

With a creative mindset, my husband and I began to think of ideas to make the implementation of this new tradition fun filled and memorable. Over the past 10 years, we have tweaked it so much that you never know what to expect from year to year (which is part of the fun as well!) One year, we took the paper chain idea and wrote activities on every piece of paper. Each night a child ripped off a chain and read what the activity was. Sometimes it was as simple as watching a movie at home with the lights out while eating popcorn. As the kids got older, the activities began to change to bowling, ice skating, driving around to look at Christmas lights, watching a Christmas musical or play at another church, playing a newly bought game, etc. When we were home together, we also ate dinner by candlelight - no matter what was served! Such fun memories we have made over the years. Last year I added a new twist to our countdown. I made sure each stocking had 12 small items in them (always $5 or under) and each night after dinner or our family festivities, the kids were allowed to reach into their stocking and try to guess what they felt before pulling it out! Although they highly enjoyed the 12 nights of surprises, everyone agreed that they didn't want this tradition to continue since their stockings were completely empty on Christmas morning!

A new tradition I started last year which I will continue is something I found on Pinterest (which I will blog about my addiction to this new craze later!) It's very simple that will bring lots of smiles. Every time something memorable, exciting or just plain note worthy happens, write it down on a small piece of paper with the date. Fold it and then drop it in a glass jar. That's about it - I told you it was too simple! Do this all year long and then on December 31st (or whatever end of the year date you pick), grab the family with some Welch's Sparkling Grape Juice and take turns pulling out a piece of paper and reading what it says. I took our little tradition to Ohio this year so that we could do it with the grandparents - what better way to reminiscence about the wonderful things that happened during the year while catching them all up to speed. We spent almost 2 hours and had a lot of "oh, I forgot about that" and "remember how funny that was!" The kids are already saying, "Did you write that down for the jar?" Big clue that the activity was a hit!

I could write a 5-page blog on traditions that have come and gone and ones that will never leave us. I believe it's what keeps the family together. What better way to make your heart smile than to pass something so special from your childhood onto your children.

Just remember - when first starting a tradition, be flexible. If no one is enjoying it, then be ready to make changes or ditch the idea completely! You certainly don't want any bad family traditions!

I would love to hear from each of you - what are some of your favorite family traditions? Ones that you grew up with or some that you have started with your family. I absolutely adore stealing ideas, so please do share!

Do You Know Your Expiration Dates?

2012-01-04T11:33:00.000-08:00

I found this on Simple Saving Savvy and found it to be very helpful. You can find the entire list here:

With help from experts and product manufacturers, Real Simple compiled a guide to specific product expiration dates. These dates are offered as a rough guideline. The shelf life of most products depends upon how you treat them.

Edibles, unless otherwise indicated, should be stored in a cool, dry place. (With any food, of course, use common sense.) Household cleaners also do best in a dry place with a stable temperature. After the dates shown, beauty and cleaning products are probably still safe but may be less effective.

Here are a few of the most common household items that coupon users tend to stockpile and guidelines for how long they can be stored and consumed.

Dried pasta – 12 months
Frozen vegetables – Unopened: 18 to 24 months (Opened: 1 month)
Ketchup – Unopened: 1 year (After this time, color or flavor may be affected, but product is still generally safe to consume.)
Opened or used: 4 to 6 months (After this time, color or flavor may be affected, but product is still generally safe to consume.)
Marshmallows – Unopened: 40 weeks (Opened: 3 months)
Mayonnaise – Unopened: Indefinitely
Opened: 2 to 3 months from “purchase by” date (After this time, color or flavor may be affected, but product is still generally safe to consume.)
Mustard – 2 years (After this time, color or flavor may be affected, but product is still generally safe to consume.)
Olive oil – 2 years from manufacture date (After this time, color or flavor may be affected, but product is still generally safe to consume.)
Peanut butter, natural – 9 months
Peanut butter, processed – Unopened: 2 years
Opened: 6 months; refrigerate after 3 months
Rice, white – 2 years from date on box or date of purchase
Salad dressing, bottled – Unopened: 12 months after “best by” date (Opened: 9 months refrigerated)
Tea bags – Use within 2 years of opening the package
Air freshener, aerosol – 2 years
Bleach – 3 to 6 months
Dish detergent, liquid or powdered – 1 year
Laundry detergent, liquid or powdered – Unopened: 9 months to 1 year (Opened: 6 months)
Bar soap – 18 months to 3 years
Bath gel, body wash – 3 years
Body lotion – 3 years
Hair Care Products – 2 to 3 years
Deodorant – Unopened: 2 years (Used: 1 to 2 years)
For antiperspirants, see expiration date
Foundation, oil-based – 2 years
Foundation, water-based – 3 years
Lip balm – Unopened: 5 years (Opened: 1 to 5 years)
Mascara – Unopened: 2 years (Opened: 3 to 4 months)
Mouthwash – Three years from manufacture date
Nail polish – 1 year
Nail-polish remover – Lasts indefinitely
Perfume – About two years. To get more mileage out of a perfume, resist the temptation to display a pretty bottle on your vanity. Instead, stash it away in a cool, dark place.
Facial Moisturizer – 12 months after first use

Do You Know the Cookie Rules?

2011-12-19T08:25:00.000-08:00

A friend sent this to me a few days ago, so I just had to share...if only I were this clever to think of all these rules!!

Christmas Cookie Rules:

1. If you eat a Christmas cookie fresh out of the oven, it has no calories because everyone knows that the first cookie is the test and thus calorie free.

2. If you drink a diet soda after eating your second cookie, it also has no calories because the diet soda cancels out the cookie calories.

3. If a friend comes over while you're making your Christmas cookies and needs to sample, you must sample with your friend. Because your friend's first cookie is calories free, (rule #1) yours is also. It would be rude to let your friend sample alone and, being the friend that you are, that makes your cookie calorie free.

4. Any cookie calories consumed while walking around will fall to your feet and eventually fall off as you move. This is due to gravity and the density of the caloric mass.

5. Any calories consumed during the frosting of the Christmas cookies will be used up because it takes many calories to lick excess frosting from a knife without cutting your tongue.

6. Cookies colored red or green have very few calories. Red ones have three and green ones have five - one calorie for each letter. Make more red ones!

7. Cookies eaten while watching "Miracle on 34th Street" have no calories because they are part of the entertainment package and not part of one's personal fuel.

8. As always, cookie pieces contain no calories because the process of breaking causes calorie leakage.

9. Any cookies consumed from someone else's plate have no calories since the calories rightfully belong to the other person and will cling to their plate. We all know how calories like to CLING!

10. Any cookies consumed while feeling stressed have no calories because cookies used for medicinal purposes NEVER have calories. It's a rule!

So, go out and enjoy those Christmas Cookies - we only get them this time of year!

Merry Christmas & Happy New year

One Incredible Moment

2011-12-13T19:56:00.000-08:00

If you have not discovered author Max Lucado, I simply cannot begin to explain how much you are missing. He is truly one of my favorite authors. Introducing him to my children brings me such joy. This is our second Christmas book we have begun reading aloud. I knew it would happen, but I certainly didn't think I would break in the very first chapter.

A massive, golf-sized lump stuck in the middle of my esophagus . . . and then the tears flowed. I finally finished that chapter and decided I had to share it with you all. I could tell you that you must buy this book, but unless I give you ample reason to, you probably won't. I'm typing out the entire chapter for you in hopes that it will stir your soul to purchase this book and read it to your children.

From One Father to Another

"This isn't the way I planned it God. Not at all. My child being born in a stable? This isn't the way I thought it would be. A cave with sheep and donkeys, hay and straw? My wife giving birth with only the stars to hear her pain?

This isn't at all what I imagined. No, I imagined family. I imagined grandmothers. I imagined neighbors clustered outside the door and friends standing at my side. I imagined the house erupting with the first cry of the infant. Slaps on the back. Loud laughter. Jubilation.

That's how I thought it would be...

But now...Who will celebrate with us? The sheep? The shepherds? The stars?

This doesn't seem right. What kind of husband am I? I provide no midwife to aid my wife. No bed to rest her back. Her pillow is a blanket from my donkey...

Did I miss something? Did I, God?

When you sent the angel and spoke of the son being born - this isn't what I pictured. I envisioned Jerusalem the temple, the priest and the people gathered to watch. A pageant perhaps. A parade...I mean, this is the Messiah!

Or, if not born in Jerusalem how about Nazareth? Wouldn't Nazareth have been better? At least there I have my house and my business. Our here, what do I have? A weary mule, a stack of firewood, a a pot of warm water. this is not the way I wanted is to be!....Forgive me for asking but...is this how God enters the world? The coming of the angel, I've accepted. The questions people asked about the pregnancy, I can tolerate. The trip to Bethlehem, fine. But why a birth in a stable, God?

Any minute now Mary will give birth. Not to a child, but to the Messiah. Not to an infant, but to God. That's what the angel said. That's what Mary believes. And God, my God, that's what I want to believe. But surely you can understand; it's not easy. It seems so...so...so...bizarre.

I'm unaccustomed to such strangeness, God. I'm a carpenter. I make things fit. I square off the edges. I follow the plumb line. I measure twice before I cut once. Surprises are not the friend of a builder. I like to know the plan. I like to see the plan before I begin.

But this time I'm not the builder, am I? This time I'm a tool. A hammer in your grip. A chisel in your hands. This project is yours not mine.

I guess it's foolish of me to question you. Forgive my struggling. Trust doesn't come easy to me, God. But you never said it would be easy, did you?

One final thing, Father. The angel you sent? Any chance you could send another? If not an angel, maybe a person? I don't know anyone around here and some company would be nice. Maybe the innkeeper or a traveler? Even a shepherd would do..."

Oh, how I love the way he writes!

Thanksgiving Blessings!

2011-12-09T18:35:00.001-08:00

I know I'm REALLY late posting this but I just couldn't make the time to sit here and share! Even though I'm three weeks late, I still want to share what we did for Thanksgiving this year.

I am always trying to find new and creative things for us to do together as a family. Having an age span of 13 to 18, mixed with two of them being deaf, the interest and ability levels vary tremendously. From activities to games, books, movies and read alouds, it's a constant struggle that I will not give up on!

As we were having our traditional Thanksgiving lunch at Mimi's Cafe, I brought a notebook and explained a little game that I thought of that morning. Although this may seem very remedial to some and rather silly to do with an 18 year old boy, it proved to be a very memorable experience for us. Using the alphabet as our guide, we went around the table and had everyone tell us what they were thankful for that started with their assigned letter. We continued until we were at the end of the alphabet.

Now, what was so amusing was listening to every one's feedback after they heard what someone had picked for their letter. Shouts of 'how could you be thankful for egg salad when the elephants that God created are so amazing!' So, once we were finished, everyone wanted to do it again so they could give their answer to a letter they didn't get the first time. My cheeks were actually sore when we left from all the laughing and several times my husband kept trying to hush us up as the onlookers were really looking! My oldest informed me that he has given me plenty of blogging material in just one luncheon with the family :)

I realize that this list may mean nothing to you and it probably won't even make you giggle, but I'm posting it anyways because it's my blog and I want a written record of these items and this day!! (wow - that sounded really snotty but it sure was fun typing it - baaahaa!)

A: Adam and apples
B: Bananas and bats
C: Cochlear Implants :)
D: Dad and dogs
E: Egg salad and elephants
F: Flirting and Fords
G: God and Grandparents
H: Holy Spirit and hospitals
I: Ice cream and International Airports
J: Jesus and Joy
K: Kyle and Kitchen
L: Love, lakes and Lego Universe
M: Mom, mall and Monopoly
N: Nintendo and nachos
O Oven, onions and Oreos
P: Prayer and paper
Q: Questions and queens
R: Racing and restrooms
S: Shopping and Savior
T: Teaching and Model T's
U: Us, underwear, utters and uniqueness
V: Victoria, victory and vase
W: Water and WWW
X: Xmen!
Y: You and yellow
Z: Zipper and zebras

If you know my children, you can pretty much guess which child gave which answer!

My wishes are tardy, but I still hope you had an incredible Thanksgiving Day and that most of all...I hope you made memories!

Update on My Kids - Part 3

2011-12-04T13:17:00.000-08:00

Sitting here with a smile on my face as I listen to a very intense but giggle-filled speech therapy session. This session is after hours and on a much personal level with pillows and blankets surrounding the participants. I happen to dearly love both parties involved. One is my precious daughter and the other is my dedicated husband.

Although I have no regrets - I mean completely, 100%, ZERO regrets, I certainly had no idea we would be treating my 15 year old daughter like a toddler and struggle as much as we have the past few months. I also had no clue that my son would soar past the expected goals only to be released from speech therapy three weeks after the first implant since he was already talking and hearing on the phone! A household full of mixed emotions is putting it quite mildly.

Honestly, I can't remember the last time I signed to Adam. His second implant surgery went even better than the first and activation was all it was meant to be. This child, so full of life, smiles even more now than he ever has (he has been known as the 'smiling boy' by many people!) He's confident, secure and engaging in conversations that he dared not even think about 5 months ago. After only 3 months of guitar lessons, he is being moved to the intermediate classes starting in January! I have also noticed an improvement in his reading skills as well as his sense of humor :)

Here is where the mixed emotions break into the scene.

Victoria is a different story. She struggled with the first surgery, implants and activation, while the second surgery was even worse. She had an adverse reaction to the anesthesia and threw up 8 times before we even got her home. Her equilibrium was massively affected, so she had trouble walking by herself and the dizziness lasted almost a week. Poor girl even got a 24 hour stomach bug in the middle of her recovery time! She finally turned the corner and made it to activation day. I will say that I was a little shocked to learn that we were starting all over again - just like the first implant. I fully expected her to be able to hear even better with two implants (and eventually she will). Instead, she stated that she 'feels' the sounds and really only hears beeps. Sheepishly, I sat and listened as our audiologist explained that you have two hemispheres to your brain so each side works independently when referring to auditory paths. I should have known that!

We have now been back twice for remapping (fine-tuning) and I can finally say that things are looking up (which is why I haven't blogged until now). She is still very timid around a group of girls since she can't understand everything they are saying, but I do believe that one day she will be able to have a complete conversation with a friend and never have to ask for repeated sentences.

The biggest hurdle is remaining consistent. Determination will pay off but the process is shattering to your patience bucket. Last
week I spent 7 minutes working with her on one word. It was tedious and patient-taxing. I know now that her brain can hear these sounds but they have no idea what they are since she's never heard them before. We have to re-train her brain to know what a "g" sounds like, etc. With that knowledge, I can't make excuses anymore, like in the past. I had to teach her what a soft c and m sound like and I wasn't giving up. We both finally broke into a giggle and I accepted her pronunciation of the word. 7 minutes was long enough.

We are still under directions to repeat every word or sentence three times before we resort to signing. In my determination to NOT sign, it took us 11 minutes the other day to go through dictation. It was two scriptures verses that Adam did in 3 minutes, but I kept having to repeat myself numerous times for Victoria. It was mentally draining but I was very proud of her since she never got upset or lost focus. I couldn't say that a month ago.

After explaining to Victoria that her success of these implants solely rests on her determination and effort, I have begun to see some changes. She is now asking what certain sounds are and is increasing the volume each day on her own. Just yesterday she was telling me about a friend and then stopped herself to ask if she was saying the name right. I spoke the name about 6 times until she had it perfect. I chuckled internally knowing that she finally crossed the threshold - she wants to have better speech, therefore, she will!

The speech therapy I spoke about in my opening sentence is something daddy asked us to do. Throughout the day, I write down any word that she has trouble speaking. I work with her for a while and then move on. The list then lands in daddy's hands for him to critique her sometime after dinner. I love listening to them - his persistence and her girly-ness! Not only does she get the chance to work on these words twice, but she gets to hear how they sound from a male voice as well as a female voice.

It's December 7th and winter is here in full throttle - 14 degrees when I awoke this morning. The leaves crunch under our feet, the garden lies empty and the flowers no longer bring a splash of color to my front entrance.

However, there's a massive contrast when you walk through my front door. In here, it's spring! Conversations are budding, patience is anew, smiles are blooming and there's a fresh spring in the step of two children who are experiencing what we take for granted everyday.

Sound

Not only am I thankful for an on-time God, but also for children with more perseverance than most people I know!

And these little babies...no longer don our household :)

Tomato Basil Fettuccine

2011-11-30T18:58:00.001-08:00

Just tried this new recipe which was a huge hit for the fam! It came from the Taste of Home magazine, so I just knew it would be wonderful!Tomato Basil Fettuccine

8 ozs cooked fettuccine
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon butter
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes - undrained
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1-2 tablespoons dried basil)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Saute onion and red pepper flakes in butter till onion is tender. Add tomatoes and salt; cook and stir over medium-high heat until most of the liquid has evaporated. Remove from the heat; let stand one minute. gradually whisk in milk. Drain cooked fettuccine and place in a large bowl. Add the basil, Parmesan cheese and tomato mixture; toss to coat. 4 servings.

The next day, I added some chopped up leftover chicken and a few tablespoons of milk which made an awesome meal along side my warm, home made wheat rolls!

Happy cooking :)

Thankful for My Heritage

2011-11-06T18:48:00.000-08:00

I experienced something very odd a few weeks ago. Due to other events at home, we chose to attend the traditional first service at our church instead of the second service which is contemporary.

When I first walked in, I was shocked at the songs they were singing. I knew it was a traditional service but really wasn't expecting songs from my childhood.

'Blessed Assurance' along with 'Look What the Lord Has Done' and 'I Will Enter His Gates' were songs I sang as a preteen! I will have to admit that my initial thought was, "I cannot believe they are still singing these songs!" It only took a nano second for the Lord to convict me and remind me that I was saved on these songs. The words still ring true and with passion. Within minutes, I began worshipping with a lump in my throat as we sung 'You are Awesome in This Place' and 'Come Holy Spirit'. I only had Adam with me who looked rather perplexed at the style of music and the change in my behavior. I knew right then that Hymn 101 was a new class that would start in my home the next week!

I borrowed a hymn book from the church and then spent some time Monday morning explaining my heritage to the kids. I sang as I spoke and wept as I sang. For me, it was a moving moment that I wanted my kids to experience. We read the words to 'Amazing Grace', 'There is Power in the Blood', 'What a Day That Will Be' and 'How Great Thou Art'. Then I began sharing with them my limited knowledge of the historical background of the writers of these precious old hymns and their incredible journeys in life.

Fanny Crosby, blind from childhood, was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1975 and is known as the "Queen of Gospel Song Writers. She was a rescue mission worker, poet, lyricist and composer with over 9000 songs in print as well as 1,000 poems. She was also an incredible public speaker, played the organ and gave piano lessons...let's not forget that she was blind!

That first service worship experience was so rewarding, that I decided to do it again. With both kids in hand, we greeted the predominately older folks and began to worship with them. While we sang 'In The Presence of Jehovah', I could hear my mom harmonizing with me in my mind. Oh, what powerful words 'He is Here, You Can Touch Him' possess!

I was so blessed and elated when a message in tongues was given. Paraphrased..."I am here now with you to bless you. I will give you My strength. I am yours and your are Mine. Together we are victorious."

Amen!! I accept that, Lord! I'll take Your blessings AND the victories!

I don't feel it or say it enough, but I am extremely grateful for my Christian heritage. I enjoy the contemporary services as much as anyone else, but I treasure the hymns - they made me who I am. They shaped my hope and strengthened my faith. Thank you, mom and dad, for the Godly heritage you gave me!

Update on My Kids - Part 2

2011-11-04T07:00:00.001-07:00

"In the midst of her trials, she has found strength she never knew she had and an appreciation for life unlike anything she has ever known. As a consequence, she is joyously alive, howbeit, in the face of great adversity."

I love to read. Period. You name it, I want to read it. It inspires me. Encourages me. Raises me to new levels that I didn't know existed. God's Word, other blogs, books, Internet articles, quotes, devotions, online sermons, etc., etc.

I read the above quote somewhere and copied it onto my virtual notepad. I want this to be me. I want people to be able to say that about me one day...

"...this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead" 2 Corinthians 1:9.

A dear friend of mine recently shared with me Rick Warren's personal observations since dealing with his wife's cancer. He said that he used to think that life was a series of hills and valleys. "There were good and bad times that ebbed and flowed. Now he sees life more like a railroad track. Two parallel lines - one side being good things and the other being the challenges. At every stage in our life we have things that are wonderful and we consider them blessings. At the same time, we are facing challenges and struggles that God is using to shape us into the people who will spend eternity with Him. We have to remember that everything we are doing now is only practice for the "REAL" life we have yet to live."

Wow - I love the parallelism to this analogy!

After my first update on the kids, I started receiving these precious emails ... "I pray that they acknowledges their struggles and successes, all at the same time."

"We declared Victoria to be "Victoria the victorious" in our prayers this morning! I am asking the Father to give her a vision for where He is taking her."

"I'm sure this is a roller coaster ride for you. Thank you so much for sharing and being an inspiration for those of us who are just struggling with the small stuff. The boys tell me that Adam is an amazing guitar player and I know they are blessed and encouraged by his example."

"We are in God's throne room daily, lifting your kids up."

I am so thankful for the phone calls, encouraging emails and reassuring comments. I read them to my kids and watch the spark in their eyes light up.

So how are they doing a week after my first update? Amazing to say the least! I have purposely waited a week to write this second update so I could report their success after another mapping session on Thursday.

* I call Adam on the phone often and rarely ever sign. I sat in the hallway this week in guitar lessons for the first time. I do believe the proverbial umbilical cord has been severed!!

* Victoria is now getting annoyed by my keyboard clicking, soft background music at the Chiropractor and the beeps on my phone when I'm texting! Although she is irritated, I can't help but laugh. Why? Because she can hear them :) I keep reminding her that her brain will eventually tune out the noises that are not necessary to function - just like it happened with her heartbeat.

Ironically, when I asked her last week if she still hears her heartbeat, she looked very puzzled and wanted to know what I was talking about. Flabbergasted, I explained the whole scenario. She had no idea what I was talking about and says she hears nothing!! Not only has she tuned out the beating sound, but also the entire event!

* They both received an excellent report from the audiologist and the surgeon as we prepare for surgery number two.

* When we left the appointment yesterday, I stepped on a bunch of leaves and heard them crunch. I stopped, made the kids freeze and stepped on them again asking if they heard that. They both did!! Victoria had a strange look in her eyes and then the dimple appeared - I heard leaves crunching!!

* I was very encouraged yesterday when our precious audiologist stated that she was very proud of both the kids and that Victoria is already doing better than she ever anticipated - woohoo!

I have to share one more funny thing. I was going over the next surgery date and the proceeding appointments with them both yesterday. The surgery is on Tuesday, so Victoria asked what time on Thursday do we go to the audiologist to have the implant activated. Thursday? "No, honey, remember, we have to wait three weeks for the incision to heal before it can be turned on."

I was completely amazed as she sat there trying to tell me that it wasn't like that with the first implant - she has completely forgotten! In case I haven't shared this yet, that was the one thing that I was so upset about. I just knew that the three week waiting period with ZERO hearing for my kids was going to be horrendous. Trust me when I say that it was certainly difficult, but four weeks later and my kids don't even remember - they think they got activated two days later! God is so funny :) Good thing I'm journaling this whole event or they wouldn't remember a thing a year from now!

Although we're nearing the finish line, please but don't stop praying -- their second surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, November 8 at 7 and 10 am.Count your blessings, name them one, two, three!

Essential Oils to the Rescue!

2011-10-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Even though it is against the Motherhood Law Book, I am at home sick with a ridiculous cold that has robbed me of utilizing my vocal cords!

I don't know why, but just a simple cold is like the flu to me - hits me hard and usually lands me in bed for a few days looking like I need to be shot to be put out of my misery!

I am extremely blessed that I only get a cold once every couple of years. I am also very thankful that a good friend introduced me to essential oils a few years ago. I should be a mess right now (based on past experience), but, instead, I am oiled up and able to function as a mom (in between my naps!)

Here is a short list of what I am doing to help my symptoms:

Peppermint: Rubbed it on my lower back for the achy muscles. Peppermint will cure headaches, bring down inflammation, help with muscle aches, is soothing for coughs, bronchitis, and laryngitis, and will clear congestion. It’s also good for infections and will stop nausea and vomiting.

I also rubbed peppermint with coconut oil on my chest at night time to help me breathe.

RC Blend: A few drops on my chest every couple hours to fight against respiratory congestion, pneumonia, sinusitis and a sore throat.

Thieves: On the back of my neck and bottom of my feet. Thieves has been university tested and found to be highly effective in supporting the immune system and good health.

Lemon: Slathered it on my neck to help with my sore throat. Also put a couple drops in my water since it is great for boosting the immune system from within.

Valerian Extract: Not an essential oil but rather a pill from the health food store (my Valerian oil hasn't come in yet). I take one every 4-6 hours to help dry up the excess mucus - works like a charm!

Peace and Calming and Tranquil: On the bottom of my feet right before bed to help me sleep (slept till 8 this morning, so it worked!)

Deep Relief: All over my forehead and behind my ears to help with the pressure and headache. I don't really like Peppermint on my forehead or near my eyes since it makes my eyes water.

Last but not least - 36 gallons of water every day. Okay, maybe that's a bit of an exaggeration, but it sure feels that way! When you are sick, the best thing you can do besides rest, is drink a ton of water and stay away from the sugar!

Well, I think that about sums it up. Just spent some time in my garden gathering some onions Vitamin D :) Time for a nap and some more oils.

Let me know if you'd like some additional information on these incredible essential oils and I'll add you to my email loop or the private Facebook group - they have been instrumental in my quest for knowledge on how to use the oils and the testimonies are amazing!

Update on My Kids - Part 1

2011-10-26T04:58:00.001-07:00

Warning...this is a long blog!

I am sorry that it's taken me a few weeks to write an update on the kids and their first Cochlear Implant, but there is actually great reason for this.

This uncharted road we have been traveling on since September 20th has been physically, mentally and spiritually exhausting, bewildering and stressful. The emotional roller-coaster ride has been insane. Honestly, the last thing I wanted to do was rehash the struggles and be reminded of the tediously slow process we are experiencing.

However, my spirit has been lifted the last few days as I have seen definite improvements in my kids progress as well as their demeanor.

If you remember from my previous blog, activation day was less than exciting for my kiddos. It was not what we or the kids anticipated or ever dreamed of. Not only was it not video worthy, we were looking to get our money back!

And then 24 hours passed.

You would never have convinced me that in just 24 short hours, we would do a complete turn-about and cry with joy instead of weeping from anger and frustration. But that is exactly what happened. Both kids went to the mapping session (fine-tuning) with positive attitudes and great expectations. Even in Victoria's timid state, she did incredibly well. Adam was off the charts with his ability to process sounds in just one day! I was even more flabbergasted when the sound field testing came back at 15 db - I would never have believed it had I not been sitting in the back corner of the sound proof room! I, personally, have a mild hearing loss of 20-25 db, so that means my kids were hearing sounds that I could not hear! Even though these were just sounds and not actual words, my husband and I were still elated!

A week later we embraced yet another three hour mapping appointment where they were reprogrammed (I guess I have little robots in my house now!) and boosted in the volume arena. Victoria's progress is a tad slower than Adam's, so she left with her level on 4 while Adam had his on 6. However, a week later, they were both at 10 -- right where the audiologist wanted them!

Then the speech therapy and listening drills began - at home and at the center. We are listening to 1st and 2nd grade books on tape trying to get their brain retrained and to really focus on listening. We try to name every sound as it happens in the house and draw attention to noises we think they have missed. The hardest part? Repeating ourselves three times before we are allowed to resort to signing. I've signed for 14 years now - I can't believe I'm having to slap my own hands and try to not sign!

So, here is the individual update:

Since Adam's hearing was better than Victoria's for 10 years, his threshold is wider as is his tolerance. He has heard sounds and pitches more clearly and in a different range than she ever has. Which is why he is doing better with the implant than Victoria. He loves it, has embraced it and can't wait for the next surgery on the other ear.

Up until the last year when Adam's hearing plummeted, Victoria had the greater loss. Lower threshold; lower tolerance. She does not relish or accept new challenges with the tenacity that Adam does. She is struggling with being a baby listener. Too many things to listen to and it literally hurts her head. Unfortunately, she has taken the implant off often in the past two weeks. As strange as it is, Victoria hears her heartbeat every evening when we take the implant off. It scared her at first, wondering what the pounding noise was and then it was just plain irritating. We have since found out that this is quite normal and will hopefully fade away as time goes on. Victoria is quite apprehensive about the second surgery.

The surgeon told us that, "Listening is truly an art and very difficult to do. These kids are having to start all over with the patience and tolerance of a teenager instead of a baby." We will get there but it's a much slower process than we ever imagined.

Ok - I said it and I didn't cry! This is what I didn't want to share. These are our struggles and the facts of life for us. However, now it's time to move forward and catch you all up to speed. Enough with the whining - I'm ready to share the honey-sweet good reports!

Yesterday, I read a chapter to the kids while sitting on Victoria's lap. Adam was about 2 feet away and understood every word I said without me signing (that has NEVER happened)! I was sitting on Victoria's lap so that I could point to every word and have her follow along. It was tedious for her but we are doing everything we can to NOT sign. She got it, but it was hard. I keep having to remind her - you have to work at this. It will not come easy, but it will happen.

They are both hearing sounds and/or noises that they've never heard before. Although Victoria is doing a lot of lip reading, my signing has still decreased by at least 50%.

They heard the dryer shut off today.

Victoria heard me sneeze in my room while she was in the kitchen (quite a distance away) and wanted to know what the noise was.

In Adam's guitar lesson this week, I only had to sign ONE sentence! Also, he was moved to the back row so that newer, beginning kids could be in the front (since that means the instructor doesn't have to watch him as closely, that's a compliment!) Adam has only been taking lessons since August, so I'm very proud of him! We have decided that I will be sitting in the hallway next week - we're both ready to cut the proverbial umbilical cord :)

Victoria's speech therapist hugged her and got misty-eyed at her progress last week.

At therapy, Adam talked on the phone while the therapist was in the hallway and heard every sentence she said! Only two more sessions with Adam and he will be dismissed from therapy!

In only two short weeks, they have both done an amazing job of learning how to block out all the loud background noises and focus on the person speaking.

Victoria no longer hears her heartbeat when the implant is off - her brain has learned to just ignore it. When I asked her about it last night, she looked puzzled and had to think about it. "I don't hear anything without my implant - what are you talking about?"
I just had to laugh - she had already forgotten that only last week it was driving her crazy!

I taught science class at co-op this week and Adam understood nearly everything I said.

It dawned on me yesterday that Victoria has not said that everyone is too loud for almost a week!

Even better news...she has not taken off her implant once!

They both went to youth on Wednesday without me - first time in years. I knew Adam would understand almost everything so I asked Victoria what she wanted me to do, since I'm not supposed to be signing. She told me not to come. "I'll be fine. I'll listen as best as I can and try to read his lips." She didn't understand much at all - BUT, at least she tried. That's a huge milestone for her.

The last two weeks, Victoria had embraced her insecurities and somewhat retreated. These past few days, I saw a butterfly emerging. She is strong - she is a Flint!

Adam is bold, outgoing, outspoken and very sure of himself. These character traits have served him well these past few weeks.

I warned you this was going to be a long blog :)

Bottom line...I'm very proud of them both and although the past three weeks have been challenging, I have no regrets. God has been our constant source of strength and comfort. We are trying to seize each moment and to live every hour to the very fullest.

I must sign off for now. In the Update, Part 2 (hopefully this weekend) I want to share what the Lord reminded me of and some special words of encouragement from my friends.

Blessings to you all!

Behind the Appearances

2011-10-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

I love this story so much that I just had to copy and post it here:

"I like to cook and fix meals for my husband. Since I was a child I liked to watch my mom preparing meals for us, and enjoyed eating her food. Growing up I didn't do a lot of cooking, but in college I had no other choice, but to start cooking myself. I did, and I enjoyed so much that I started cooking for all my friends. It is such a good feeling when you offer somebody something you cooked with love, and they like it.

One day while preparing the ingredients for a meal, I was fascinated by these extra large potatoes. They seemed so healthy and you would not think for a minute that there might be something wrong with them. I started to peel them, they seem OK, but when I got to the middle of potatoes and they were brown. There were no signs on the outside to warn you that they were rotten inside.

I had to go deeper to remove the bad part and two things came to mind while removing the rotten part. One had to do with my own life and the other with the appearance of human being in general. I felt like God was telling me:” This is how much I had to remove from you; I had to cut deeper, though painful, to remove the filth in your life! I started crying, while recalling some of the painful moments in my life!

Many people live their lives as if they would have it all together, but inside they have a lot of depression, anxiety, hurt, and pain. It seems like we delight in showing off what we don’t have, and like to make people think that everything is just fine with us. God knows us so well, and still loves us and accepts us. Why then, are we afraid to be transparent?

I know one thing that can help us is examining our lives, confessing what is not right and leave it behind. I often heard people trying to excuse bad behaviors instead of dealing with the situation and do something about it. I admit that I struggle with anger, and there is no excuse about it. I need to deal with the issue and solve it. I can't take a pair of scissors, cut out the pages of my Bible that speak about anger, and pretend they are not there. None of us is perfect, but this should determine us not to remain at the same level of growth. By admitting our imperfections and allowing God to change us, we are changing and growing.

I think we can learn some lessons for life even from a rotten potato. Which brings my thoughts to a movie I've seen “Faith Like Potatoes”! An awesome movie that inspired me to have a real faith in spite of what the society or the circumstances tell me. Faith just like a potato, real and touchable."

Eureka!

2011-10-12T18:48:00.000-07:00

Surprises at every corner does not even begin to describe our day today.

With a spring in our step, we all marched out the door this morning in great anticipation of what awaited us in the "activation room!"

All of the professionals tried desperately to warn us that they will not hear right away. "It's a slow process." "Their brain will not be able to handle all the sounds right away." "90% of implant patients hate them for the first two weeks."

I explained this to the kids numerous times and then tried to set my own expectation bar very low.

I was unsuccessful in doing this.

I did not expect my daughter to start crying when she heard the first beeping sounds. They were not glassy eyes full of joyfulness but salt water from fear and nervous anticipation. There was no amazing video to show of their first experience hearing our voices. They couldn't hear our voices. It was a little disturbing to hear them both say, "I don't hear anything, but I feel it." They could not make out a single word. Adam's expression was very bewildering - " The sounds are stinging my brain."

The audiologist explained that this was all normal and that their brain actually has to be re-trained. There is mapping that happens on the computer with the implants and mapping that occurs in their brain while they are listening. They really did "hear" but their brain had no idea that these noises were sounds that form words. I know - it sounds crazy! Our heads were spinning as we were trying to swallow these alienated explanations.

Then the speech therapist proved her point. She turned off the vibration mode on her cell phone and set it on the table. When the phone rang, Victoria said she felt it. She was wrong - there was nothing to feel! She heard it but didn't really know she was hearing it! Her brain didn't know it was a phone ringing since she's never heard a phone ring before!

This is where extensive speech therapy and preschool-like games at home come into play. We literally have to treat them like a toddler naming every sound we hear. We've been cautioned against signing so that they can begin to depend on the implants ability to let them hear. Baby listeners they are called! As a friend of mine told me today, "Sometimes you have to work before the blessings come."

So here we are...

Trusting yet nervous

Excited but skeptical

Confused though at peace

Frustrated yet joyful

Believing but doubtful

Can you really feel all of these emotions at the same time with the same event? All I can say is that we did.

So, we have a choice. My husband and I have decided to accept and trust God and then proclaim His incredible blessings. We will NOT confess any negative thoughts or let them take a foothold in our hearts.

So, that is what I put on Facebook - they DO work and I AM thankful for this incredible technology. I must believe that this truly is a tediously slow process and that with time it will get better.

In case you're wondering, this is why I blog. It is my journal. It is how I expressive myself. I truly write just for me. If I happen to have readers, then that is just an extra bonus! I usually open up my heart and let the rawness show. I don't pull any punches and I don't pretend to have it all together. I try not to portray that every trial in my life is a welcoming avenue for character building! However, I do pray that it is :)

I also blog so that I can see where the Lord has brought my family and I. As I did recently, I like to reread some old blogs and chuckle at where I was not so long ago. I love to reminense about a certain event that seemed so catastrophic at the moment yet a minor anthill now!

I am positive that I will look back on this blog 6-12 months from now and not only stand in completely awe of what the Lord has done for my children but also see that what was so perplexing and heart breaking at that time, can bring a joyful smile to my face now.

And The Ears Will Hear!

2011-10-11T15:02:00.000-07:00

13 years after our research began, the day has finally come...

Each child has their "suitcase" ready at the front door - it is packed full of adaptors, gadgets, electronic devices, processors, drying units and things I don't even know how to name!Their hair has already grown back quite a bit from the surgery. Is it truly possible that it was just three weeks ago when that tedious and painful day willingingly struck both my children? Time...steady yet uncontrollable.

These strong offspring of mine are phycially and mentally prepared. They understand that they will only begin to hear a little after todays 4-hour appointment. Then a little more on Thursdays 3-hour appointment while the rest of the 22 electrodes are paired up next Tuesday. Our kids, who have "heard" at a 90-110 db loss will actually hear at a 20-30 db loss in just a few short days.

I am in awe even as I type this.

My mind is on overload.

I had trouble living in the real world yesterday. I kept day-dreaming. Complete lack of focus. What now? Will I have to continue to sign? Will they truly be able to have a normal conversation and not shake their heads and smile having no idea what the person actually said? This has been our world for so long, that I really cannot fathom a different way. Only God knows...

I honestly cannot wrap my fingers around the possibilites that are now within arms reach.

For such a time as this....Allen and I have to believe that God, in His infinite wisdom, planned for October 12, 2011. He's not late or too early. I personally believe He is indeed an on-time God! He has ordained our steps and ordered our days!

On the way home from guitar lessons yesterday, Adam was beyond excitement about today's possibilites. He asked me when the next surgery date was for the other ear and why it was so far out from the first surgery. When I explained that the stitches had to heal and then we needed to see what kind of success we will have with this implant before we fully committ to the second surgery, he was flabbergasted! He shouted, "What are you talking about? Of course we're going to have success - 100% success! This will work, mom - I will hear tomorrow!"Out of the mouth of babes... :)

Profit From Buying!

2011-10-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

No doubt about it - shopping is fun! It's even more exhilarating when stores pay YOU to buy their products!

In case you haven't heard, Walmart has a new "Overage Policy" which is nothing short of Heaven on Earth :)

A current example is the $2 coupon for any Gain product. I bought their small box of dryer sheets for $1.67 which means Walmart paid me .33 for this item! Of course, this is where having multiple coupons come in handy. I always have other items in my cart, so they don't actually "pay" me, but we just apply the overage to my total bill.

I have had people ask me how much time I spend on coupons; figuring out what's on sale when and which store along with which coupon. I actually try not to spend more than about 30 minutes each week and that includes cutting the coupons. I can assure you that I personally do not find all these incredible deals - they come right to my inbox! I have signed up for email alerts from several different coupon websites that do all the leg work for me. Here are my top two favorites:

www.simplesavingsavvy.com

www.thekrazycouponlady.com

Once I open their emails, I grab my little note pad and start jotting down where to buy what. Very rarely do I find some awesome deal on my own - I'm all for someone else doing the work while I benefit from it!

Keep in mind that you can really hit the jackpot by frequenting grocery stores that double coupons like Homeland. Just this week (sale is over today - so hurry if you can!), they put their Red Gold Tomatoes on sale for .75 a can. They also have a special that when you buy 10 Red Gold items, you get an additional $5 off at checkout - instantly! Combine this with a $1 off coupon found on their website that Homeland will double to $2 off. Bottom line....I got 10 cans of tomatoes for .62 and I am set for the winter! (I did this deal twice so I have 20 cans here!)The great thing about signing up with these coupon sites is that I can get my "game plan" all laid out before I even receive Homeland's new ad since the emails come the day before!

Getting educated and staying informed is probably the most important aspect of saving money. I follow people like Consumer Queen, I Heart the Mart, Wild for Wags and Saving Everyday on Facebook and Twitter. Consumer Queen does an incredible job of keeping us up-to-date on policy changes and alerts.

Another avenue to save money is to sign up for text message alerts from different stores. I didn't think I wanted to do this at first, but it has proven to be very beneficial. I receive coupon alerts from Target, Bath and Body Works, Gordmans, Payless, etc. Keep in mind that those phone coupons are considered in-store coupons, which means you can stack them with a manufacturer coupons. I was able to do this last week with an Oil of Olay facial cleanser that was $5.99. I used the phone coupon (just give them your phone and they will scan the bar code) for $3 along with my Sunday coupon for $3, making the item completely free!

Also, now is a great time to begin watching deals for Christmas gifts. We like to be a part of the Angel Tree Ministry at Christmas time, so I start buying gifts when summer clearance sales begin. Last week, there was a $5 off coupon in the Sunday paper for a Transformer toy figurine that was $9.99. I stacked it with my phone coupon for $5 and received the toy for free! In my "gift box" it went!

As you can see, it's not only easy and rewarding but exhilarating as well!

Now it's your turn...feel free to share with everyone what your awesome deals have been so we can learn from each other!

Can You Trust Him?

2011-10-04T16:04:00.000-07:00

This was from my Jesus Calling devotional book the other day. Just too good - it has to be for more people than just me!

"When many things seem to be going wrong, trust Me. When your life feels increasingly out of control, thank Me. These are supernatural responses and they can lift you above your circumstances. If you do what comes naturally in the face of difficulties, you may fall prey to negativism. Even a few complaints can set you on a path that is a downward spiral, by darkening your perspective and mind-set. With this attitude controlling, you, complaints flow more and more readily from your mouth. Each one moves you steadily down the slippery spiral. The lower you go, the faster you slide; but it is still possible to apply brakes. Cry out to Me in My Name! Affirm your trust in Me, regardless of how you feel. Thank Me for everything, though this seems unnatural - even irrational. Gradually you will begin to ascend, recovering your lost ground.

When you are back on ground level, you can face your circumstances from a humble perspective. If you choose supernatural responses this time - trusting and thanking Me - you will experience My unfathomable Peace."

But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. Psalm 13:5

Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20

Are You Addicted to Speed?

2011-10-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed how persistent God can be? If He doesn't get through with one avenue, He will try another. I have been hit over the head with a spiritual 2 x 4 before and I really feel that it's happening again. But not just to me. It think it's a world-wide ordeal.

I believe God is trying to get our attention and what He has to say is not new or earth shattering but necessary to hear. I will sum it up in one word.

REST.

It is talked about everywhere. Especially the last two weeks. In Sunday School, we've been talking about honoring the Sabbath and finding time to rest and enjoy your family. Then I see it on a few Facebook statuses - people that aren't in my SS class. Joyce Meyer begins tweeting about resting. Richard Exley emails me a daily devotion and every day for a week, it's been about keeping the Sabbath holy and relaxing. Ann Voskamp has blogged about it three days this week. I'm listening to Cast of Characters audio CD's by Max Lucado and right there in Chapter 2, he slips in how our body needs rest and how crucial family time is.

I don't think we're referring to just some quite time or going to bed early one day a week. I think it's more than that.

I believe we need a life-style change . . . a make-over within our own home.

We finally got the message in our household. I knew I bit off more than I could chew this school year, but didn't' really know how to back out of anything. We only allow our kids to play one sport, but Adam's team called for two practices a week - during the time that I was supposed to be with Victoria at her cheer practice. Then I enrolled in two different co-ops. I know....crazy. But they are both SO beneficial for my kids that I couldn't bear pulling them from either one. And I volunteered to be the treasurer for the Edmond Home School support group. Let's not forget about church three times a week...and, and, the list goes on....

We do rest on Sundays. I do have my morning devotions with the Lord. I strive to take a 20 minute nap almost every weekday and I am in bed before 10:30 pm. But I was still leg-high with barely anytime for recovery or evening family time.

Then my kids had implant surgery and my life completely changed. Adam can't play soccer now - no contact sports. All field trips - cancelled. No school for 4 days while they recuperated. Not exactly how I would suggest you free up some time in your life, but it happens to be our family story. And for that, I am very thankful. It was just enough so that we can now breathe. And God knew that. Our evenings are relaxed now. The board games have come back out and we only leave two nights a week - church and cheer. Whew!

An epidemic. That's what I think is happening. We live in a fast-paced technology-driven, wait-for-no-one society. And it's killing us. We desperately need to catch God's vision for resting - giving our body the break it needs. If we do not take breaks, we will break.

Ann Voskamp is so eloquent with her words. Here is an excerpt from her blog from a few days ago:

"Is there such a thing as a sustainable economy of the soul in this industrial world addicted to speed?...If we refuse Sabbaths of idleness, we construct our own idols. If we refuse rest and think of our work more important to Him than our rest in Him, we make our calling into the golden calf. In the digital era we have lost all sense of seasons. All sense of day and night and on and off and fertility and furlough and idol and God. We wind the world, our bodies, tight and let go and expect to be in motion forever, spun, us watchmakers of our own."

We have to believe that sleep is a daily reminder from God that we are NOT God. In His wisdom, He has ordained these seasons of rest for us to remember who we are . . . the dependent ones.

Another blog stated: "Funny how resting is a discipline for most people, when it should be a welcome relief! If we do not rest, we make ourselves cheap martyrs, victimized by no one but ourselves to our busyness and whirlwind lives."

Resting to you can mean just a break during the day to reflect on anything or nothing. But we also need an entire day set aside to let our bodies rejuvenate.

I was going over all this with my kids last night and looking up scripture verses. Psalms 127:2 says, "...He blessed His beloved with sleep." Did you ever stop to think about God resting on the 7th day? Why did He rest? I mean, seriously, it wasn't because He was tired! It was because He was satisfied. "He saw that it was good and He rested." He did so as an example to us - to show us how life needs to be handled. We are humans, not robots.

A friend once said that she finds herself praying to God more and more to please, give her rest. But I wonder if it's really up to us. Honestly, He gives us ample opportunity for rest, but it's up to us to recognize it and use it wisely.

Ironically, my devotional book "Jesus Calling" posted this scripture verse for the month of October: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Richard Exley's daily devotion yesterday said, "Without the Sabbath, without rest and renewal, we would never have the inner resources to embrace a hurting world. In our weariness we would be tempted to resent the needy with their ever-present claims on us, but renewed by a Sabbath of rest we can embrace them with the love of Christ. Rather than isolating us, the Sabbath restores our spiritual and emotional vitality so we can return to our mission with renewed vision.

Oh, Lord Jesus, restore our souls so we can minister to others. Instead of feeling guilt during the refreshing season, help us learn to embrace the refreshing, resting times.

I honesty just don't see how all these people can be wrong - all at the same time. I think we need to stand alert and pay attention!

So, what will it take for you? Are you ready for some balance in your life? Are you willing to stop the Merry-Go-Round and do what God commands us? If you continue living like this, will you have any regrets two or three years down the road? Are you often sick because your body isn't getting the rest it needs? Will your kids remember that you were always "busy" and never had time to share a movie or play a game with them?

I leave you with these thought-provoking questions. Ultimately, the choice is yours.

Time to end this lengthy blog...after all, my Sunday afternoon nap awaits me :)

Under the Knife

2011-09-26T12:59:00.001-07:00

I'm sure I'm not alone when I say that I'm not particularly found of hospitals. I'm thankful for them but really have no desire to utilize their services! I also think it is the general consensus that any type of surgery is scary - the unknown, the risks. But when it is your KIDS going under the knife, then the emotions rise to a new level.

Was I emotionally ready for such a day? Did I really understand the complexity of this surgery and the recovery process...times two?

Did I have my spiritual armor on and was I in submission to the Lord's will as He hovered over my children when I was forbidden to enter?

I really thought I would completely fall apart last Tuesday when both my kids were scheduled for cochlear implant surgery. I was anxiously dreading the moment they unlocked the bed and pushed my child into an area that was restricted to my presence. And then something pleasantly welcoming happened. Without shedding a tear, my husband and I embraced and turned away to divert our attention to the next child getting prepped for an IV. It was actually rather strange. No concern. No worry. Not even a second look. It was as if we left them in perfectly capable hands. And we did. Successful doctors and their Heavenly Father. At one point when I crashed on the couch while one was in surgery and the other was in recovery, I had a dream that Jesus was standing over my kids - just smiling at them.

The surgery? 100% successful with zero complications. The doctor said it couldn't have went better or smoother. Statements you always want to hear concerning any procedure involving a knife and anesthesia! The kids had a few rough days that followed, but I think the recovery process went very well with great progress each day.

We thank you for your devoted prayers - we felt them. They are real. The peace we experienced was amazing and I know it was only because of the prayer warriors going to battle for us. Here are some pictures to bring some reality to the process and your prayers! (I left the "detailed" pictures out!)

They wanted to be very clear which ear was being implanted!Both kids did great with their first IV!So thankful for Pastor Bob and our awesome friends who joined us in prayer!One last kiss from daddy....You can see the implant and the curly wire that wraps into the cochleaLooking and feeling great! This is the next day (can you believe it?)They are moments away from getting the head bandages cut off.

Two more weeks until activation. We are blessed and extremely exciting!!

Thank you Jesus!!

I Hate The Day Before

2011-09-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

I never really thought this day would embark on my household.

We were totally against this happening 13 years ago but always said that when the time came and the children could make the decision on their own, then we would re-evaluate.

All too soon, the time came. The re-evaluation happened. The children are older, so the research began all over again. A million questions with hopes of having a million answers. Someone put us at ease...please.

We wrestled. We questioned God. We fought the tears. We prayed for healing. Then we let the flood gates open. They don't stop for days. Is this the right choice? Their healing never came.

Their healing never came.

We just wanted our kids to hear - to know what an "f, s or z" sounds like. To hear the birds awaken them with their incredible songs. To hear a dangerous car coming when they are on their bike. To hold a normal conversation with a friend.

If you remember from some of my previous posts, my son, Adam, has a digresive hearing loss. This past March, it plummeted again to the point that he was receiving very little, if any, benefit from his hearing aids. Standing at the fork in the road, we asked Adam what he wanted to do. If he still wanted to hear, then the only viable option was a Cochlear Implant.

State-of-the-art equipment which would give my kids back 80% of their hearing. Maybe this was the way the "healing" was going to come. After all, His ways are not our ways and I have to trust Him completely without ever looking back.

I only need a mustard seed....

I had to take three naps today. Woke up in a grumpy mood with my gut and head hurting. I'm sure most of it was emotionally driven. Not surprisingly, I had to apologize to the kids for my attitude. I just don't want tomorrow to come. I do but I don't. I would rather a Touch from the Masters Hand.

It wasn't until 4:00 pm that I was able to function without pain and a smile on my face. Forgive me, Lord, I know I need to trust You more. Please understand that I'll need an extra dose of that Grace You hand out when they wheel my child away from me tomorrow. The waiting room is such a hard place to be - physically and spiritually.

For now, I rest in His Sovereignty that He is in control and Lord of our lives. I anxiously await the activation session in three weeks to "see" what my kids will hear.As you know, ice cream always makes everything better, so we met Kyle at Braums tonight with our conversation wheel to share some laughter - and a few tears. Since they can't have anything to eat past midnight tonight we wanted the last thing in their mouths to be sweet - just like the mercy and grace of our Lord.

Thank you all for holding our children up in prayer all these years. I covet your prayers tomorrow at 7:30 am as we turn our babies over to a very capable doctor and the Master Healer.

Making Every Day Count

2011-09-17T20:57:00.001-07:00

I know what we should be doing and I know how to do it. Finding the energy and time is another story...

Family Time

I can say that I think this task was much easier to accomplish when the kids were younger. We colored together, made crafts, played hide-n-seek, enjoyed board games, went on bike rides, ate together, etc. Now that they are older, I am shocked as to how difficult this feat is.

My 18 year old who is in college full time with a part time job is only home two nights a week for dinner . My daughter now has a part time job and cheer practice once a week. My youngest has soccer twice a week and of course, church two nights a week. Because of their age differences, our board games are limited as well as our movies. Adam's leg muscle issues makes the family bike riding extremely difficult. And of course, they have out grown coloring together and making crafts!

We have been forced to be very creative with our family time and activities. Since the quality time together seems to be scarce, we have to really make each day count ... to seize the moment!

That's when the wheel made it into our lives.Just a simple, little cardboard wheel created by Focus on the Family to aid families with conversation starters. We absolutely love it! We set aside at least one day a week to have a real, sit-down, family meal and then the wheel makes its appearance. It really blessed my heart when my 18 year old said that Tuesday was his favorite day - he looked forward to the home cooked meal and the intriguing conversations that would follow.

Here are a few of the questions or starters that we have enjoyed so far:

What is your favorite thing about being a child/parent/husband/wife?

If you could ask God one question, what would it be?

What three words describe your day today?

If you had one super power, what would it be?

If you could change one thing about your family, what would it be?

What are your favorite qualities about your mom, dad, sister or brother?

When do you feel brave?

What is the nicest thing anyone has ever done to you?

Tell about a time when you were scared and what did you do?

Some of these questions were answered within 10-15 minutes. I can remember one night when we realized it was almost 8 pm - we had donned the family table for two hours!!

Family time around the dinner table is certainly not over rated. If you have children, it just must be a priority. The old adage is so true - it's the quality not quantity of time that matters. I can honestly say that I have gotten to know my children better after listening to their answers - sometimes through tears and sometimes through laughter.

The older they get, the shorter the time with them seems to be. I just can't let it slip through my fingers...there's still so much more to teach them but even more importantly than that - there's still so much more listening for us parents to do. Kids really do have some good insight ... if we will just listen.

Camp Cavett...Where the Fun Begins!

2011-09-01T13:52:00.001-07:00

I am shocked that it has been TWO months since my last blog and oh, how I have missed writing! I can't even begin to explain what my life has been like since June, so I won't even try! Instead, I'm going to try and get back on track and start with some long overdue pictures from Victoria's first camp and her Friends Crowning ceremony. She had an incredible time at camp with no issues and wasn't even ready to come home after 5 days! She made several new friends and grew up about 2 years in just the short 5 days!Climbing the inflatable "mountain" in the middle of the lake!

Relaxing at beautiful Lake Texoma!

You had to dress up as a fruit or vegetable for one of the nights - Victoria and her friend Anna are two peas in a pod!

This is right before the ceremony - since there wasn't a purple dress to be found in ANY store, we found this beautiful, light lavender formal at a consignment sale for ONE DOLLAR!!

And here is our little princess - an Honor Friends. We are so very proud of her!

Thanks for letting me share and boast! Time for my workout now and I promise to be back before December :)

She's Not So Little Anymore

2011-07-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

She still sits on my lap...every morning she crawls out of bed

She still wants me to put her to bed and have Chocolate Cake time (one-on-one with mommy only!)

She still asks me to sit and color with her

We make crafts together and she loves for me to read to her

I am actually quite surprised by the list I just typed! You would think that I was talking about my 7 or 8 year old daughter. But alas, my "little" girl is only a few months shy of tuning 15!So what monumental event took place today that finally gave me the need and time to sit and blog about it?

I knew you would ask!

At 7:30 this morning, I dropped my precious daughter off to her first camp - ever! And yes...I teared up :(

I am excited for her as I know this will be an incredible opportunity. She is going with her best friend, who is also profoundly deaf, to Camp Cavett. Their motto is "The illness or disability does not define the child." This camp is completely sponsored by the OU Medical Center at no charge to the campers and is only for those children who have an illness or disability. Here is their website if you would like to learn more:

http://www.cavettkidsfoundation.org/node/11

Five days...three hours away....no one to share my clothes with...I'll probably be okay till around Friday morning and then I'm pretty sure I'll have a small mental breakdown!

She's in the Lord's hands and although I trust Him explicitly with her life, I still would like to know how in the world she managed to get to 14 years old so quickly :)

It's Almost JULY Already??

2011-06-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

This has been an unbelievable summer - It's almost JULY?? Where in the world has it gone??

Well, let's see....ballet classes, tap practices, Farmer's Market booths, helping my daughter start her new business, audiologist appointments, Ranch Camp, home schooling meetings, new co-op meetings, essential oils meetings, garage sales, spring cleaning, shopping for a new RV, purging books and school curriculum, still schooling with math and reading, massively couponing to help lower-income families, helping my daughter babysit, blah, blah, blah!!

Sometimes I feel like a dog chasing my tail! I want to blog - everyday - yet I haven't for over two weeks! I told my husband just yesterday that so far this summer has been more hectic and challenging than a normal school year :(

So, here it is....the shortest blog I'll probably ever write.

That's all I wanted to say. It was really nothing earth shattering - that takes me hours to write! I just wanted to know if I remembered my password and could actually log on correctly and write something.

I did.

And now it's church time :)

Love you all!!

The Morning After

2011-06-08T10:57:00.001-07:00

"I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little." Philippians 4:11-12

After a long hug from my soul-mate we just softly smile at each other. No words are exchanged. They simply are not needed. We enjoyed the comforts of a warm spaghetti dinner and actually shared some laughs over America's Got Talent!

While the kids ran off to shower and wind down for the evening, I brought him into the office and read him my blog. It is something special that I do for my husband. When he doesn't have his reading glasses, he can barely read anything. However, even when he does have them, he still asks me to read - he says he enjoys my voice :)

Sadly, this is one time that I just wanted him to read the words on the screen while I walked away. Instead, he pulls up a chair and gives me the floor. Of course, I don't even make it through the first paragraph. I've had several people tell me in the past that my blogs make them cry. I apologize but tell them that's because I cry when I write them!

As hard as it is, there is incredible comfort in duet-crying; especially when it is your husband.

The morning after is always full of a variety of emotions. The morning after you get married is just unexplainable - you are ecstatic with glee! The morning after you return home from a long vacation is tiring but rewarding; there truly is no place like home. The morning after you bury your second brother leaving you as an only child is a dreadful, atrocious, empty feeling.

Today, I have mixed feelings as well. Even though I screamed and cried in the shower, I have a smile on my face and hope in my steps. My son is refreshed and ready to deal with his basket of lemons. As soon as the kids wake up, they come find me and sit on my lap while we hug and rock for a minute or so. It's tradition and apparently they still enjoy it since they come to me! I will say that it's a little awkward trying to hold, hug and rock my daughter who is bigger and taller than me in every aspect! Sometimes she just slides off and falls to the ground laughing!

Adam found me on the computer this morning and sat down for his morning cuddle time. After only a few seconds, he lifted his head from my shoulder and asked, "Are you okay, momma?" He has such a precious, intuitive spirit.

And the answer?

Yes.

I am okay. Although I am not looking forward to the events that lie ahead of us, I am exciting to see what good things the Lord will bring about and what surprising doors He will open!

One of our favorite scripture verses for our household is Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

There you have it. It's already settled. HE is in control - not me. He actually loves my children more than I do! Do I think I can do a better job than He? Do I think I know better? Can I make the wisest decisions for my children outside of God's council? No, no and no!

They are yours, Lord, and I trust you explicitly with their lives.

As I am learning from Ann Voskamp...thanksgiving is the evidence of our acceptance of whatever He gives.

I Still Trust You

2011-06-07T14:56:00.000-07:00

My day actually started out glorious - not even an inkling of worry in the air. Enjoyed my 6 a.m. run with an awesome friend, hit four stores before 9 a.m. to grab my freebies, got caught up on some chores and then spent a few hours shopping with my daughter before I had to pick up my youngest from a friends house for an appointment he had.

That's when it happened. One of the worst days I have had in a while. A day that I don't want to repeat.

Ever. The sad part is...I have.

Three times before.

I've experienced the sweeping of this mental tornado too many times already. There is just nothing like your heart aching for your children.

It's my baby boy. The one who was born with a moderate to severe hearing loss but now has a profound loss in both ears. Although he just received new hearing aids in December, about 3 weeks ago, things began to change again. He just wasn't hearing right. He had to be right in front of you before he could understand your words. We blamed his allergies and all the drainage. I cleaned the molds - more than once. I cleaned his ears - every 4-5 days. Then the realization became apparent. His hearing just plummeted again.

These are one of those times when I wish I were wrong. I typically enjoy being right ... but not today.

The drive home was gut-wrenching. The silence was so loud. I was sure both of the kids heard all the voices in my head. The battled dialogue going on inside of me had to be obviously heard. I finally decide to peek in the rear-view mirror.

There he is. Slumped over the armrest. I know he's tired from his overnight stay at his friend's house, but his body language screamed something different. I call his name only to see his dripping face look up at me with those huge, brown, puppy dog-eyes. It's more than I can handle. Only two miles from home, I pull the car over and climb to the back seat where I embrace this confused and hurting child. We cry together while he speaks, "I didn't expect this. Why, momma, why?"

We have some hard decisions to make concerning Adam's hearing. I know that God will give us the wisdom to make the best choice as well as the strength to follow through and the patience to deal with the situation at hand.

I know that. I truly believe it. "I still trust You, Lord." I uttered those words as I walked aimlessly around the house today.

While the exhausted young man sleeps away some of his tiredness and pain, I turn to the keyboard. Sometimes it is medicinal for me. Although my shirt is stained with the salt water leaking from my eyes, I feel the Lord's embrace around me. I had just begun to write when a dear friend called. Coincidence? No. Perfect timing from the Lord. I needed to cry some more so the Lord sent her.

As my devotion said today, "Life is hard, but God is good - all the time."

Thank you, Father, for seeing my hurt and caring.

My thankful journal will not be empty tonight...there is still plenty to write.And for that - I am thankful.

The "Steal" of the Year!

2011-06-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

This is such an unbelievable story that you won't even think it is true! Trust me when I tell you that every word is true (since I'm not typically in the habit of lying on my blogs!!)

After drooling over all the beautiful suitcases that passed in front of her eyes over vacation, my daughter decided that she just had to have a more stylish means of transporting her goods!

She finally picked this adorable one from a little boutique called Dustees:She was excited beyond words but in complete shock when she got home and unzipped the suitcase. We could not believe our eyes as we pulled out this brand new dress inside! It is beautiful, but we didn't pay for it!Now, here is the kicker...where did the dress come from? It still has the $65 price tag on it so it certainly looks like we did a little bit of shop lifting! But alas, that is not possible. Why, you ask? I'll tell you!

Because Dustee's doesn't sell dresses!!!!!

I called the store to ask if they sell any clothing. She said they had a few tops and maybe one or two sundresses that they were just starting to carry but weren't even on the floor yet. It is mainly bags, purses, scarves and jewelry.

I explained to Victoria that we have to do the right thing (or at least attempt to) and try to take the dress back. After all, the lady on the phone could have been wrong. My daughter was quite saddened by this point since she thinks she just got a free dress!

We take it back the next day and I ask the lady if the dress came from this store. She tells me that she has never seen this dress before! She asks her manager who replies with the same answer and then ask the lady who just happens to be there from the corporate office - now I am definitely on the up-n-up! All three of them shake their heads saying that it is not a Dustee's dress. Then I explain what happened and how we found this dress in our purchased suitcase yesterday. The head boss says, "Well, I guess you have yourself a free dress!"

How exciting is that???

The best part? We did the right thing and still ended up with the dress :)

Of course, you must know that it fits both of us perfectly!!

I LOVE Gardening!

2011-05-20T16:58:00.000-07:00

Remember my last blog about addictions?

Well, this is my newest one...gardening! So many of my friends have huge, flourishing vegetable gardens that would just make you green with envy (no pun intended!) After 5 years of begging, my hubby finally blessed me with three, nice sized raised garden beds. Since we're about 6 weeks late planting, I wasn't sure that anything would burst through the soil. Much to my surprise, we had tiny but hearty little sprouts after only a week! It is now a family ritual for us to take the short trek to the back yard after breakfast and scream with delight about what new plant has shown itself for the world to smile over! Since my mom and dad are reading this, I must say - I know that I hated a garden as a child, but it's SO different as an adult! I just must share our process so far...I just get a warm feeling all over every time I see my own pictures! Thanks for letting me feel like Laura Ingalls!

Since we're headed out for our vacation in the morning, this will be my last blog for two weeks.

Blessings to you all!

What Are You Teaching Your Children?

2011-05-14T06:42:00.001-07:00

A D D I C T I O N!

It screams negativity. It's one of those words that make you cringe because you know the story can only be bad...alcohol addiction, smoking, drugs, addiction to lying, eating too much or the need to always be watching t.v. or an electronic game.

The actual definition of the word is "...the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming..." Enslaved? Horrific. We certainly don't want to be a part of something like that, right?

Allow me to push you outside of your sweet, comfortable box for a minute.

What if I told you that I love addictions? They are what move me. They push me forward and cause me to do things out of the ordinary. As long as they are positive, I am passionate about my addictions! They are what have shaped me the past 20 years.

I'm sure you've caught on by now and can think of some "enslavements" yourself that really aren't that bad. For a word that has such negative connotations, I actually like it...then again, I'm a fan of controversial words!

Here are some of my awesome addictions:

Laughing

Reading

Blogging (this can be good and bad - I could sit here for hours and ignore the family!)

Learning about essential oils

Home schooling my kids

Teaching my children about God's grace

Praying

Writing in my 1000 Gift List Journal

My life seems to change so quickly that I become passionate (yes, addicted) to something new every few months! My latest addictions are gardening (I'll have to share my pictures in a later blog) and Ann Voskamp. Surely you know by now from my previous posts about the One Thousand Gift List and how incredibly satisfying it has been for me and my kids. We started our thankful journal a few months back. Since then, I have purchased her book, watch her weekly videos, read her blogs, follow her on Twitter and Facebook and stalk her website at www.aholyexperience.com

You ask why?

Because I am addicted to learning more about grace and this "eucharisteo" that she has taught me. Since I want you to experience this passion with me, I will leave you the challenge of looking this word up and visiting Ann's site.

Here is one of her emails I received a few days ago. I know this is a much longer blog than I normally write, but I promise you, your time will not be wasted. There is so much power and truth behind grace - not just for us but for our children as well.6 Reasons to Focus Ourselves and our Children On Seeing Grace:

1. Better Attitudes:
Children who practice grateful thinking have more positive attitudes toward school and their families

2. Better Achieve Personal Goals:
Participants who kept gratitude lists were more likely to have made progress toward important personal goals (academic, interpersonal and health-based) over a two-month period compared to subjects in the other experimental conditions.

3. Closer Relationships, Greater Happiness:
Professor Froh infused middle–school classes with a small dose of gratitude—and found that it made students feel more connected to their friends, family, and their school: “By the follow–up three weeks later, students who had been instructed to count their blessings showed more gratitude toward people who had helped them, which led to more gratitude in general. Expressing gratitude was not only associated with appreciating close relationships; it was also related to feeling better about life and school. Indeed, compared with students in the hassles and control groups, students who counted blessings reported greater satisfaction with school both immediately after the two–week exercise and at the three–week follow–up.”

4. Better Grades:
Gratitude in children: 6-7th graders who kept a gratitude journal for only three weeks, had an increased grade point average over the course of a year.

5. Greater Energy, Attentiveness, Enthusiasm:
A daily gratitude intervention (self-guided exercises) with young adults resulted in higher reported levels of the positive states of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, attentiveness and energy compared to a focus on hassles or a downward social comparison (ways in which participants thought they were better off than others).

6. Greater Sensitivity:
Children who kept gratitude journals were more sensitive to situations where they themselves can be helpful, altruistic, generous, compassionate, and less destructive, more positive social behaviors, and less destructive, negative social behaviors…
“Gratitude is good for the giver, and good for the receiver,” Professor Emmons said. “This has been documented in friendships, romantic partners and spouses. One study showed that the mere expression of thanks more than doubled the likelihood that helpers would provide assistance again.”

"And if We Don’t Practice Gratitude? On the other hand, research shows that youth who are ungrateful are “less satisfied with their lives and are more apt to be aggressive and engage in risk-taking behaviors, such as early or frequent promiscuous activities, substance use, poor eating habits, physical inactivity, and poor academic performance.”

A child who is apathetic, the dark hopelessness of this world threatening to consume? We hand our children a torch when we hand them a pen, a dare to hunt for Him. Sparks fall and the world catches and they see light everywhere, God-glory igniting everything. Hand them a pen. Hand them a pen. The way to counter apathy is to count the ways of God….

A child who is afraid? Count blessing so Who can be counted on…A child who is angry? Anger is always just this: the bleeding of a deep wound. Wrap up wounds intentionally with the gentle bandage of God’s unending love, His daily, tender graces.
A child who needs to learn pray? “The only real prayers are the ones mouthed with thankful lips. Prayer, to be prayer, to have any power to change anything, must first speak thanks: “in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6 NIV, emphasis added).

So we try this:
4 Simple ways to help children see grace, give thanks to God

1. Sticky note on the mirror: What are you grateful to God for right now?
2. Daily, tangible reminders: Collective sticky notes of thanks to Him on a window
3. A basket of thank-you notes always left out, an invitation to give thanks to someone
4. Daily Rhythms: every night write out a few more of 1000 Gifts or fill out “7 Gifts” or sing around the table “Count Your Blessings” — and each person share a few more blessings from His hand.

It sounds like a ridiculous informerical. Why does gratitude do all of this — how can it, really?

Because we were made to live in gratitude to God, giving glory to God, we were made to live in a posture of grateful worship, and when we live in praise, we live our purpose, and all the pieces fall in place, us all falling down in thanks.

My watch is ticking quiet today. I don’t know how long I have to live full of His joy. I do have now. And if perspective can always adopt gratitude and gratitude always parents joy, I pick up a pen and bow the head and pray to be that kind of parent, the one laughing at all the days to come, the one seeing shimmering grace moments already here…"

Now do you see the spark from whence my passion has flared? Please...buy her book and visit her web page. You won't be sorry!

No Better Place To Be

2011-05-09T04:36:00.000-07:00

If you are a mother, I am sure you will totally agree with this statement:

I absolutely love being a mother!

This statement brings back unusual memories for me since I never planned on being a mom! I was a 100% sold-out career woman and kids were never in my dream picture. Allen knew when he married me that I had no intentions of having those rug-rats infiltrate our home. When he proposed to me, I accepted and then immediately let him know the terms of our marriage (yes, I was very demanding back then and thought I was completely in control!) We were not getting married until I had finished college and I was not going to quit my job just to be a wife. After all, I had my career path for the next 10 years all lined up. I had no problem getting married, but my life-long goals were not going to be altered (can you imagine being married to me??!!) Lastly...we were NOT going to have any children. And yet my precious husband still married me!

A year and a half later, little Kyle popped into our lives and rocked our world. I am eternally grateful that God started chiseling on me early in life and completely changed my desires and priorities. As I am sure you have uttered these words before...I can not envision life without my three 'rug-rats'!

Although I certainly do not feel old enough to have three teenagers, it is the reality I live in! Since my oldest just graduated from high school and Mother's Day was the same weekend, I have been emotional and humbled by how they have grown in stature as well as matured mentally and spiritually. Since we have been walking down memory lane with the photo albums the last few days, I wanted to share some special pictures of a mother's changed heart - I'm so glad God didn't give up on me in those early days of arrogance and allowed me to experience motherhood to its fullest capacity! Thank you, Kyle, Victoria and Adam for making me a mom.

I love you all... to the moon and back!

It's Finally Here...

2011-05-06T04:42:00.000-07:00

I never claimed to be a "lifer" or ever had the intentions of seeing this journey through. I guess the Lord had other plans. If the truth be known, we only planned to home school one year..."we'll give it a try for one year and then put him back in public school."

Oh, how those ignorant words have echoed in my mind so many times in the past 12 years. Although I have no regrets, I certainly didn't think I would be here - writing his biography for the ceremony, setting up his memory table and blogging about home schooling my baby after 2,160 days of being under my teaching.

I recently went to a home school meeting where the speaker was incredibly refreshing with her insightful words of encouragement. She said, "no one does this willingly and on purpose! It is a God-thing - you must be called into this challenging journey and you better be prayed up each morning or you can expect your days to crumble before your eyes."

How right she was.

I have no intentions of capturing your attention about my adventures over the last decade (since there is probably not enough room here or time!) but I would just like to say that I'm pleased I listened to the Holy Spirit and His promptings. Was it easy? No. Did I enjoy every minute of it? No. Did I wake up wanting to quit some days? Yes. Did the Lord sustain me and renew my strength giving me a new ray of hope? YES!

We have two more precious children to see through till the end. My confidence is strong that the Lord will give me the patience and energy I need to see them through till graduation. As is always the case with the first born, we have learned from our mistakes and although we will undoubtedly make new ones, we will not repeat the same ones! I pray we are never opposed to change; especially when it is for the betterment of everyone involved.

Thank you, Kyle, for being a guinea pig and bearing with us as we experiment on what works and what doesn't! The road was rough at times but our love and respect for each other won through! There is a tender place in our hearts when we watch you play for the Lord while we worship. Your dedication to any task you set your hand to, is highly commendable. And of course..you have incredible taste in clothing -- even though you have a terrible shoe addiction!!

I think I'm done bragging! Now it's time to take you down memory lane to visually see Kyle as we grew up with him...

Your own personal journey you will now begin. Keep the Lord as your number one priority for there is no greater place to be than in the perfect will of God. Walk the straight and narrow road that will cause others to want what you have. Above all else...love others as you would love yourself.We love you, Kyle, and are immensely proud of you!

You MUST Try This!

2011-04-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

I have written several blogs in the past regarding the Biblical Essential Oils from Young Living that my family uses on a daily basis. What actually started my interest in the company is a drink called Ningxia Red. This drink is amazing to say the least. My good friend just started a Facebook Group called Garden of Eden that is chocked full of an immense amount of information regarding the oils and the Red drink. I have learned quite a bit in just the last few days and I've been with the company for two years now! The group is private but can anyone can join by invitation only. If you are on Facebook and would like to be a part of the group, just email me or leave a note here and I will send an invite to you. This is one of the posts uploaded just yesterday. It was just too good not to put here on my blog! I drink 1-3 ounces a day and can't imagine being without it!

Read for yourself how incredible it is....

21 REASONS To Drink Ningxia Red Juice

1. The Ningxia Wolfberry provides ample antioxidants to strengthen the immune system. Antioxidants permeate cell walls and attack free radicals before they damage the DNA of the cell nucleus.

2. Antioxidants of this berry fight arteriosclerosis and artherosclerosis – aiding the circulatory system – including the heart.

3. The Ningxia Wolfberry is powerful in helping the liver function properly. The liver is one of the most vital organs in the body – it’s our cleansing machine.

4. Helps the eyes, cataracts, glaucoma, and visual acuity. This berry contains a complete array of antioxidant carotenoids including beta-carotene and zeaxanthin. In fact, the Ningxia Wolfberry has the highest source of carotenoids in all known foods. Beta-carotene is best known as a nutrient for the retina.

5. Cancer Help. The main constituent of the wolfberry is Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide (LBP), and according to studies in China, LBP helps cancer patients rebuild their white blood cell count, enhancing phagocytes and the activity of natural killer cells, which bind to cancerous cells, as well as improving major classes of T-cells. “increase the antibody reaction to the T-cell antigen”.

6. More Cancer Help. Acetone extract from the Ningxia Wolfberry inhibits gene mutation. Some scientists say the fruit is a good supplement to prevent liver cancer. Also, studies show objective regression of cancer in patients with malignant melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and others. Results also indicated LBP may be used as an adjuvant in the biotherapy of cancer.

7. Minerals & vitamins act as enzymes and co-factors in the digestion process.

8. Studies on seniors in China produced amazing results (many people liver beyond 100 years of age in wolfberry growing areas). Increases in Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) and hemoglobin were found in serum in all participants. In other words wolfberry “may help slow the aging process”.

9. Protects against the free radical attack on the mitochondrial DNA – our energy furnaces inside each cell. Antioxidants fight against mitochondrial destabilation.

10. Helps lower blood sugar and in many tests at least stabilizes blood sugar.

11. It is important that cell walls maintain their malle-ability for nutrients to cross this membrane. The free radical scavengers found in the Ningxia Wolfberry strengthen the cell wall and support efficient transport of flavonoid nutrients into the cell and waste products out of the cell.

12. Strengthens the brains neuro-transmitters against pervasive free radical activity, thus fighting against dementia and other forms of memory loss.

13. Promotes a sense of well-being, and has had noticeable results in tests, which reduces stress and anxiety. The tissues of the body (including the brain) are assisted in avoiding oxidative stress.

14. Has a B-vitamin complex essential to the body. In addition, these vitamins are vital for converting food to energy.

15. Cells need to communicate, esp. those in the brain and nervous system. The synaptic responses are protected & fortified by the same polyphenols (flavonoids) that this berry uses to protect itself.

16. Provides powerful anti-fungal and anti-bacterial action because it contains solvetivone (an amino acid). Properties in the food fight viruses – it’s anti-viral.

17. Reduces pain caused by inflammation because the berry contains Beta-Sitosteral, a remarkable anti-inflammatory.

18. The Ningxia Wolfberry is high in protein (more than whole wheat), an essential cellular building block.

19. The Ningxia Wolfberry, unlike most berries, contains natural Vitamin E – a restorative antioxidant with too many health benefits to list here.

20. A healthier, romantic life. The wolfberry increases overall health performance, including sexual responses. One herbalist wrote, “Wolfberry can make a young wolf out of an old man.”

21. This berry, dubbed “A complete body health motivator” has many unique polysaccharides, not found in any other plant on the planet.

So, what are you waiting for? I can order this for you at my cost - I'm not part of Young Living to make a profit but rather to spread the news about their wonderful products and how they have changed our lives. I order the 8th of every month, so email me if you would like to order this drink or any of the oils. (2plus3wonders@sbcglobal.net)

My friend who started the Facebook Group posted a wonderful reminder from Revelations 22:2.... And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.

Wouldn't you rather treat the ailments of your family members naturally rather than with prescription medication? It's time to think outside the box and see what the Lord has waiting for you!

Well Worth the Wait!

2011-04-20T15:32:00.000-07:00

I am just so excited for my little princess - after two full years of tedious flossing, painful teeth-moving, rubber bands, cancer sores and monthly appointments....the end was finally in sight! For those of you that have had braces, you know the exhilarating feeling when they finally say, "Let's pop these babies off!"

Not only do her teeth look incredible (they should after all that money, right?) but she received a special kudos from the Orthodontist. They stated that 28 months is the nationwide average time span for kids to wear braces. Victoria only had hers on for 2 years and 6 days! I guess all that harping of "wear your bands" really did pay off!

Here is a picture just one day before she began donning the metal teeth!And here we are two years later...Wow...she sure has changed! I liked that cute, little bob hairstyle. Where, oh, where did my little girl go....

We love you, Victoria - you are a very beautiful and special lady! Enjoy your pearly whites :)

I'm a Proud Momma!

2011-04-04T06:12:00.000-07:00

Breathtaking.

That is the best word I can use to describe what it is like to see God working in your children's lives. To see the pages of their book unfold...to witness their score being written...to become speechless as you observe their journey from the confinements of a cocoon to the liberated fullness of life as they spread their wings!

I have seen this take place in Victoria over the past two years since we have been involved in a home school co-op. Victoria's deafness and home schooled environment presents a double-whammy when it comes to her social skills and getting her to participate in things outside of her "box".

Even though I am constantly pushing the boundaries of her comfort zone, this co-op was not one of my intended avenues. We only joined this co-op for the Chemistry class and to learn ASL. That was MY purpose and goal. However, a week later, we discovered what God really had in store for us! When I first chatted with Mrs. Shannon about our family and enrollment, she shared with me the various dance classes that she teaches. Regretfully, I let her know that Victoria was deaf and wouldn't be able to be a part of her ballet, jazz or tap classes. We were just needing science...

Shannon greatly encouraged me while gently nudging me to let Victoria try some classes. She has worked with children with disabilities for over 20 years and she was just sure that Victoria would excel.

I hope you are sitting down because you are about to witness proof that our God-given teacher was right - not even two years later I sit in amazement of my daughter and her ability to dance in all three classes! She dances all day on Friday (about 4 hours) in ballet, jazz and tap. This is a video of Victoria and her friend, Anna's, tap duet. You must keep in mind that both girls are profoundly deaf!

Mrs. Shannon is an inspiring miracle worker, in my opinion. She works with students that have various kinds of disabilities - mental and physical - and teaches about 30 classes a week. She has been a "dream come true" for my little girl and yet she is completely unaware of the transformation that has taken place in Victoria since she did not know Victoria before co-op.

Thank you, Mrs. Shannon. For your dedication, perseverance, patience and witty humor. My daughter and I both love you to pieces and am so thankful that you are following God's calling AND that He led me to you at just the right time!

I Want Another Week Like This One!

2011-03-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

After a wonderful three week sabbatical from blogging, I am finally back! Thanks for the emails and facebook pm's wondering where I was! My to-do list was growing by leaps and bounds and I was determined to get caught up on the many projects calling my name and the unfinished ones that have left me in turmoil! I purposely set blogging aside and tried to focus on my wifely/motherly duties (and playing Words with Friends on my phone!) So much has happened the past few weeks that I can't wait to write about. Right now I am trying to get out the door for our home school co-op, but just wanted to share our relaxing spring break with you. I didn't take any pictures of what I accomplished since it would have been rather boring, but I did succeed in completing FIVE projects that finally gave me room to breathe!

Since the weather felt like July, we loaded up the bikes with a picnic dinner and headed to the park for our two mile trek. We decided that we need to do this weekly once school is out! We have a pet sitting business, so this week we had THREE dogs to watch. Adam is holding the two month old untrained puppy - that sure was interesting! I have taught Victoria a little bit about sewing since my mom gave me her old machine, but this was the first sewing class that I had her attend. They made a small drawstring bag and she loved it!Victoria is the crafty one of the bunch, so she decided to "chop" up one of her t-shirts and make it more stylish!We believe the best way to learn is hands-on. So, I hit garage sales looking for broken (most of the time free) things like tv's, phones, camcorders, etc. Then the boys bring them home and tear them apart! They eventually learn how the item actually works and then daddy helps them name all those crazy parts! (This was Adam's camcorder we got for free!)Of course, we had to end the week with pizza and home made brownies made by Kyle and his girlfriend, Megan! (This is proof that all I did was watch!)

I hope you all had a wonderful Spring Break and made lasting memories!

This weekend I plan to catch up on reading all the inspirational blogs written by my other friends - way behind on that too!

Have a blessed weekend and remember to laugh often - life is too short!

Porcupine Meatballs

2011-03-08T06:43:00.000-08:00

My good friend, Denice, gave me this recipe last week and we all love them - very easy and healthy! For those of you that know me well, I always change a recipe! In this one, I used honey instead of sugar and for the meat, I used 1/2 pound of Venison and 1/2 pound of ground turkey.

1/2 cup uncooked rice
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup chopped onions
1 lb uncooked meat
Salt, pepper and garlic to taste

Sauce:
15 oz tomato sauce
2 T brown sugar (I used honey)
2 T Worcestershire sauce

Roll together to form small balls. Brown in skillet with olive oil. Pour sauce over meatballs, cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes. Serve with mashed potatoes or they make an awesome meatball sub on hoagie rolls!

Hope you enjoy ;)

Your Focus Needs Focus

2011-02-23T06:55:00.001-08:00

About three months ago, I started really paying attention to some words that I seem to say a lot - mainly to my kids and especially during the teaching hours. One word consistently makes it way through my teeth and off my lips...FOCUS!

One day I recorded that I said the word 'focus' 11 times within a six-hour span! Well, that demanded a time slot for a family meeting :)

After chatting with my husband about this incredibly strong and over-used word, we decided to make it our family "word of the year!" I started researching what God's Word had to say about it. Judges cautions us to keep our focus on God and not ourselves while Paul warns us in Corinthians how easy it can be to lose our focus. Since we are humans, our need to be realigned with our moral and Biblical warehouse is constant.

This is not just for our children in regards to their school work. It's for me and you as well. We need focus when we sit down to study God's Word and quit thinking about our massive to-do list. Focus is necessary for your college-bound children as they embark on a whole new life completely unknown to them. We need focus and diligence in our jobs as we strive for excellence.

As ironic as it is, when our friends came to pray with us and our home in January, they kept using the word focus. I was amazed! I stopped them to tell them that we have deemed this our family word and how it can apply to so many areas of our lives. They spoke of the need for focus not only in our home but in America. We've lost our way and our priorities. We need to get back to the basics - God's Word - and fix (focus) our eyes on Him.

I'll never forget a picture I saw once of Daniel in the lions den. He was completely at peace while several lions rotated around him. His arms were lifted towards the sky as his head was. He eyes were fixed on Heaven. He wasn't concerned or worried about the seemingly impossible situation around him - he was focused on the only thing that mattered. God.

As another confirmation, we watched the remake of the new movie The Karate Kid. Although I didn't care much for the movie, guess what the main crux was? Focus! It was perfect and completely poignant to our family. The boy is basically wanting to learn karate to get even with several kids who are harassing him at school. He's tired of all the mundane training and is ready to just kick some tail! The patient teacher is consistent and diligent in his training repertoire. At one point, the teacher tells the boy that he needs to focus. The boy blurts out that he is focused. Now here comes my favorite line...the teacher says: "Then your focus needs focus!"

I love that! Your focus needs focus.

Of course, now the kids hear this weekly - and for great reason. But when it leaves my lips and hits their ears, I hear it too. I need focus in my life as much as they do.

Apparently some christian radio stations and pastors knew what I was onto and were trying to catch the wave. Before I knew it, I was hearing the "word of the day" and "word of the year" everywhere I went! Let me just set the record straight and inform you all that it started right here - in the Flint Home (haha!)

If you haven't adopted a word for your family yet, begin thinking about this. What are your priorities - for you and your family? What is the one thing you either need to work on or be constantly reminded of. I have a dear friend that I think should adopt the words 'thankful beyond measure'. They have been through so much the last five years and yet God constantly sustains them no matter how much the Devil has tried to knock them off course.

Just food for thought...besides that, my thoughts don't even cost you a penny - how's that for free? :)

Spicy White Chicken Chili

2011-02-21T06:09:00.001-08:00

This is probably one of my favorite soup recipes. Serve this with some wonderful french bread and you have a hearty meal!

White Chicken Chili

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
4 cups cubed, cooked chicken
2 cans chicken broth
2 cans (4 oz each) chopped green chilies
3 cans great northern beans, rinses and drained
2 cups (8 ozs) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Saute onions in oil until tender. Stir in garlic, chilies, cumin, oregano, cayenne and cloves. Stir 2-3 more minutes. Add broth, chicken, and beans. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted. Garnish with sour cream if desired.

I do not care for cumin, so I leave that spice out. If you do not wish to have that wonderful "kick" then lessen or leave out the cayenne pepper. Also, I have tried it with and without the MJ cheese. Most of the time, I leave that out as well.

I love bowl with the garnished sour cream, but the kids do not.

Hope you enjoy this wonderful rainy day recipe!

But I Don't Have Any

2011-02-11T04:51:00.000-08:00

Without my knowledge or control, we have ventured into a new but normal phase in our household. We are past the teeth-cutting, potty-training, time-outs of parenting. In one week, three teenagers will don the couches of the Flint home. The conversations I am able to have with my kids now are so enlightening. Although my chances of having one-on-one time may be greater since I home school, the opportunities are still there for every parent.

It has always struck me odd when kids choose to open the door into their heart and ask you to come in a have a seat - sometimes at the most inopportune time. Right in the middle of me explaining composite numbers. When I am frantically trying to get my hair finished because we are in a rush. While I'm focused on a new recipe for dinner. I wish I could say that every time these wonderful opportunities arise, that in all my perfectness, I drop whatever is at hand and divert all my attention to the child who is pleading for my time.

With great sorrow, I can tell you that I have not.

In their innocence, they really are not paying attention to what we are doing at that moment. They truly are not even aware nor really care. All they want is an attentive audience. Someone who can prove to them that they really, unconditionally love them. Someone who is willing to invest in them and hear their hurting or confused heart.

I am doing better the older I get. I've noticed that I no longer wait for the opportunity, but rather seek after them. Lately, I have begun asking my children on a daily basis if they are okay or if they have something on their heart they want to talk about. I have had numerous heart-wrenching talks with my daughter - she is 14 years old...need I say more?

It happened again yesterday. Right in the middle of a serious literature discussion, the word faith comes up. After explaining in detail what faith means, she nonchalantly tells me that she doesn't have any faith. I spent the next 20 minutes opening her eyes to how much faith she really does have. She had 100% faith as she sat in that chair, fully expecting that it would hold her up. She has complete faith in my driving skills every time she shuts the car door, completely trusting that I will get her to her destination. Without blinking an eye, she has the faith to believe that I will feed her a minimum of three times a day...and the list continues.

The discussion grew deeper since this is the child that has still not been healed of her deafness even though we have continued to pray for her over the past 12 years. In faith, we take her to the altar fulling expecting God's Will to come to fruition. And it has. It's still not His timing yet.

Explaining to your disabled daughter that only God can see the "big" picture and that in His eyes she is perfect, is not an easy task. She doesn't want to be deaf. She feels left out. Lonely. Tired of being different. And so we wait.

And in the waiting, we continue to practice our faith and teach our children the same. We help them work through their misguided anger and teach them that above all, God is still God and that He loves them just the way they are. When His Glory is ready to be revealed, then the miracle will take place.

Until then, we pray. And have faith. This is not the first time we've had this conversation and I know it won't be the last. It was important and necessary. She needed to hear this...again. She needed to weep in a safe environment and hear her momma's reassuring words...again.

I am so thankful that I didn't let the work or the schedule deter me from receiving a small piece of my daughter's heart. I'm sure there will be many more chances with all of my children, so, please, Lord, don't let me miss any of them.

Happy Anniversary to Me!

2011-02-08T06:23:00.000-08:00

It is totally unbelievable to me but it is true - as of today, I have been blogging for one exact year!

I truly had no idea that it had been a year until I went back to the archives trying to find a recipe for a friend. Then I saw "Feb 2010" What? I was blogging in February? I was stunned! February 8th to be exact.

The reason this is so exciting to me is that I really never believed that I would actually begin one of my life-long dreams. I love to write. I have always enjoyed expressing myself through the written pen. Just the other day, I found my high school notebook full of the poetry that I wrote. Oh, how funny it was! This is the beginning of one of my poems:

Heavenly Father full of grace
Bless my boyfriends foxy face!

Hilarious!! I laughed till my eyes whelped up with tears!

I had this overwhelming urge to blog about four years ago but just couldn't bring myself to take that step. It's too scary. Outside of my comfort zone. Open myself up for criticism? Expose myself and all my failures? How transparent would I be? After all, the dozens of journals I have are completely private. No eyes have ever peered onto their pages.

"But I want to write, Lord. I want to share my heart. I have a small desire to be raw and open." To what degree? I don't know..."

With both eyes closed (or at least it felt that way!), Blogger.com made it's way onto my home page. I went back and re-read a lot of my first blogs. Although I like my variety...recipes, couponing, my kids and spiritual matters, I have exposed myself more than I ever thought I would. I had someone once tell me that it is very hard to read my blogs because they usually cry. I told her, "that's because I cry when I'm writing it."

I'm exciting to see where the Lord will lead me in 2011 in the blogging world. To say that I get giddy every time I sit to write is an understatement! Something strange about a burning passion...it's hard to keep a lid on it!

Thank you, my friends and family members, for your incredible encouragement this past year. Your comments and personal emails have inspired me to press on. Sometimes I even weep with your comments! You have been with me on this journey during the most difficult year my family has ever experienced. If my posts have helped you in some way, then to God be the Glory!

I look forward to another year of sharing my soul and more character pruning from the Lord...where would we be without Him?

Love to you all!

Bring Out the Guacamole!

2011-02-02T17:47:00.000-08:00

Since I blogged about avocados yesterday and then ate the best guacamole I have ever made, I thought I would post a recipe. Of course, there are many different varieties and if the truth be known, I actually don't follow a recipe most of the time. I throw these items in there and then start tasting! A little more of this and then a little more of that...pretty soon I have perfection :)

Now, there is a trick to perfect guacamole and that is using good, ripe avocados. Check for ripeness by gently pressing the outside of the avocado. If there is no give, the avocado is not ripe yet and will not taste good. If there is a little give, the avocado is ripe.

2 ripe avocados
1/2 red onion, minced (about 1/2 cup)
1-2 serrano chiles, stems and seeds removed, minced
2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon of fresh lime or lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
A dash of freshly grated black pepper
1/2 ripe tomato, seeds and pulp removed, chopped

Cut avocados in half and remove the seed. Scoop out avocado from the peel and put in a mixing bowl. Using a fork, mash the avocado. Add the chopped onion, cilantro, lime or lemon, salt and pepper and mash some more. Chili peppers vary individually in their hotness. So, start with a half of one chili pepper and add to the guacamole to your desired degree of hotness. Be careful handling the peppers; wash your hands thoroughly after handling and do not touch your eyes or the area near your eyes with your hands for several hours. The tomatoes need to be kept separate until ready to serve.

Remember that much of this is done to taste because of the variability in the fresh ingredients. Start with this recipe and adjust to your taste. Just before serving, add the chopped tomato to the guacamole and mix. Of course, I think that everything taste better with garlic, so I always add fresh garlic or some garlic powder to my dip.

One more tip...I haven't tried this yet, but I have heard that if you leave the seed in with the guacamole, it will prevent the dip from turning brown.

Grab some chips or a sandwich and enjoy a little piece of Heaven on earth!

Eat the Fat!

2011-02-02T14:34:00.001-08:00

Hydrogenated Soybean Oil. Trans Fat. High Fructose Corn Syrup. Avocados. Nuts. Fish..and the list goes on and on. There are good fats and bad fats so how do you know which are which and should you touch them at all? I think that Americans are the recipients of a lot of conflicting information about fat.

The Human body needs fat for proper immune function nervous system and maintenance, hormone production and vitamin absorption. However, it is important to limit the consumption of saturated fats. When consumed in excess amounts, fats contribute to weight gain, heart disease and certain types of cancer. Fats are not created equal. Some fats promote our health positively while others increase our risks of heart disease. The key is to replace bad fats with good fats in our diet. Consuming healthful fats is a great way to add flavor and variety to your meals and reap the associated benefits.

We started on our health journey about 7 years ago and although I'm not tooting to be an expert, I certainly know a lot more than I ever did! I've learned by trial and error what works and what taste horrible in a muffin recipe! Here are a few tidbits that I've discovered:
* Don't throw the nuts out! Yes, nuts are fattening in the sense of the word, but they are the good kind of fat! Almonds and walnuts are the cream of the crop containing unsaturated fats and essential fatty acids. Your diet needs a variety so be sure to include Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, pecans, macadamia nuts and pine nuts. Sesame and sunflower seeds are also a good choice. Just remember...moderation!

* Which oils do I use? The worst are Canola and Vegetable oils. My favorite? Olive oil and flax seed oil. Olive oil is rich in oleic acid and omega-9 monounsaturated fat which may help fight against the development of Type 2 diabetes. I cook and bake with both of these oils.

* I am so glad I finally fell in love with avocados! I didn't start eating this wonderful fruit till about two years ago. This is what I found when I searched the internet on the benefits of this delicious fruit: "Avocados provide nearly 20 essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, Vitamin E, B-vitamins and folic acid. They also act as a "nutrient booster" by enabling the body to absorb more fat-soluble nutrients, such as alpha and beta-carotene and lutein, in foods that are eaten with the fruit. Avocados can reduce bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol." Be creative with this fruit - it's not just for making up an awesome batch of guacamole. Put it in your salad and on your sandwich to replace high-fattening salad dressings or mayonnaise.

* Cold-water fish is incredible. It contains high levels of monounsaturated fast and omega-3 fatty acids which help protect against heart disease, Alzheimer's disease and many forms of cancer. Eating a serving of salmon, mackerel or herring two times per week will do wonders for your body! If you do not consume enough fish, then a trusted fish oil supplement is highly recommended. We take two DHA pills from Nordic Naturals. It also supports memory, learning and neurological function.

Just remember...fat isn't your enemy! Just choose the right kind!

Hamburger Stew

2011-02-01T11:33:00.000-08:00

This is a wonderful recipe for a snowy or rainy day - chocked full of healthy vegetables and robust flavor! I think I got this from a friend years ago but I really can't remember - if you're the friend, just let me know so we can pass along the credit!

Hamburger Stew

1 lb cooked beef (I used venison)
1 can chopped tomatoes
1-1/2 cup chopped cauliflower
1 can beef broth (I use our own stock which adds more flavor)
1 cups water (I use enough beef broth that I don't add the water)
1 medium potato
1/2 chopped onion
2 chopped carrots
3-5 cloves of garlic, minced
1-2 stalks of chopped celery
1 teas tarragon
1 cup cooked macaroni (set aside)

Throw everything in a big pot (except macaroni) and boil till veggies are cooked. Right before serving, add the cooked macaroni.

Serve with warm home made bread and enjoy :)

Take Back Your Children

2011-01-31T10:24:00.000-08:00

It didn't happened overnight. Then again...it usually doesn't.

It's more subtle...extremely devious and artful. It appears in your children and begins to rears its ugly head in yourself.

Discontentment. Disrespect. An argumentative spirit.

It's like the boiling frog who has no idea he is headed for his grave. It's so slow. It's scary slow. Out-of-your-control slow.

But that's the way he works. Sly. Deceitful. Clandestine.

Satan is good at what he does. He's been doing it a long, long time. We need to see the alarming warning signs. We need a Neighborhood Watch Program over our family and our personal soul.

2010 has been the most challenging year we have ever experienced. EVER.

Health issues, family matters, questioning weather we are still supposed to home school, managing two hormonal teenagers, constantly shelling out money for broken down items or things that were stolen in the middle of the night. Water leaks in two different parts of the house causing mold. Friends that have pulled away for various reasons. The weight of knowing you are the only child your parents have left...

The result? Feeling lost, lonely, uncertain and bewildered. None of these exemplify traits from the Holy Spirit.

Then comes the discontentment and confusion. First in you then in your children. It's like a butterfly dropping the pollen of disrespect to each person it touches. Unknowingly, you are affected and infected. Children who usually don't argue are forming a new art with it. Your teenagers seems to ignore all values taught to them their entire life and you disagree about everything. I mean everything.

What happened? I haven't a clue but I know that Satan was having a hay-day. He's after my children and my household. I even bought into the lie that maybe we weren't called to home school.

I have never felt the way I have these last twelve months. Completely at the end of myself...which is where God wanted me. Empty of myself and full of Him. My husband and I began passionately pursuing God. Separately and together, we anointed each bedroom and prayed fervently over our children. In our angered determination, we rebuked Satan and the horrid character traits that were transforming our home. We called on some special friends to join us in dedicating 2011 to the Lord and HIS calling. They came and prayed over each child and every room in the house. An hour an a half of incredibly peaceful anointings took place that day. They gave us a scripture verse that the Lord laid on their hearts for our family. Proverbs 14:26: Those who fear the Lord are secure; He will be a place of refuge for their children." WOW!They spoke powerful words over each room as they prayed...unity, peace, the gift of discernment, valor of courage, focus, creativity, dreams, words of knowledge, clarity of mind, tranquility. We heard from the Lord that day as He poured out His peace and comfort to our hurting and exhausted souls.

If you are experiencing any of these same delimas in your home, I encourage you to fervently seek after God and find a strong prayer partner that you and your husband can fully trust. Stand on God's word and His calling for your life. Do NOT buy into the lies of Lucifer. He wants your children so you must fight for them. With God on your side, the victory will be yours!

We are still home schooling and although the varied emotions of five different people living in the same household are still there, we handle them differently now. As I was typing this blog, two of my children were beginning to argue. I started to intercede and resolve the issue when my youngest said, "Mom, wait a minute. Let us try to work this out." And they did. No arguing. No hurtful words. It was peacefully over in less than a minute. Although it's not always like this, it is happening more and more. That disrespectful butterfly was crushed and instead of immediate condemnation and correction, we sit on the couch and talk about what just happened and how we can change for the better. My household is already different in just one month...oh, to be emptied of myself more often.

The signs are more obvious to me now and I pray they never again gain a foothold as they once did. He is a gracious, forgiving AND powerful God.

What always amazes me is that He loves my children even more than I do! Thank you, God, for doing what we could not.

Practical Life Skills Book for Your Kids

2011-01-24T13:20:00.000-08:00

I totally forgot that I mentioned this book months and months ago and then never did write my thoughts on it! Please forgive my absent-mindedness!

I have owned this book for 12 years and found it to be a priceless gem in teaching my kids life skills even at an early age of 2!

The book is endorsed by the Ezzo's (Growing Kids God's Way) and is an incredible wealth of information. The first half talks about Dynamic Devotional Living, which includes structured and unstructured devotions as well as a prayer list.The next section is Cultivating Family Unity along with gifts and talents. I love the 12 pages on Biblical Character Traits. My kids just finished keeping a notebook of all the biblical traits listed in the book and scripture references for each one. The section on manners is entertaining yet helpful! Then my all-time favorite part is the Practical Living Skills checklist - even though I started this when my now 17 year old was 5, I still use it today to check off things that my 12 and 14 year have accomplished. I review the book every few months and when I recently noticed that there were still a few items that I hadn't taught them yet, I was right on it. Things like oiling a bicycle, mopping the floor, operating the washing machine and learning basic electrical repairs. The very next week I had my son help his daddy put a new plug on my bread machine! Some of the items on the list will get checked off naturally, but others will never even think of making an appearance in your brain! If you do not have a list of this nature, then it may never occur to you to teach your child that skill. (Notice the "why" written by my son next to needlework - needless to say, that is one skill we did NOT teach him!)I did check online and the book is still in print and sells for $9.45 at http://www.gfi.org/java/jsp/cust_store.jsp

If you have younger children, I believe that this may possibly be the best $10 you will ever spend! Thanks for letting me share :)

Homemade Bisquick Mix

2011-01-24T10:35:00.000-08:00

My kids adore home made biscuits and oh, how easy they are to make. Before I became Suzy Homemaker, I would just make them from the Bisquick box...full of all it's chemicals, vegetable shortening and preservatives! But atlas, a home made recipe is beckoning your name - 4 simple ingredients and I promise you that your family will rise up and call you blessed (well, at the very least, they will smile and ask for more!)

Most of the recipes I found either included sugar or shortening/lard. I finally landed with this one and am very happy with the results. Topped with local honey or Polaner Fruit Spread and they will never ask for cereal again!

Word of caution here...if your family is not used to bread items with whole wheat flour, then it will behoove you to use unbleached, sifted white flour. If you add any wheat flour, they will be a little more dry and heavy. My family is used to this kind of bread versus the light and airy, no consistency, white flour biscuits! A good alternative is white whole wheat flour. It is much closer to all purpose flour than regular whole wheat flour, which tends to produce heavy and somewhat crumbly biscuits.Homemade Bisquick Mix

6 cups of flour (sifted - I mix my flours to include whole wheat and sometimes rice flour)
3 T baking powder
1 T salt
1/2 cup cold butter

Mix together and then cut in butter. Store in refrigerator for up to 4 months.

Now for the biscuits...

2-1/4 cups of Homemade Bisquick Mix
2/3 cup milk

Mix together and then roll out on counter and cut using a cookie cutter. If you use any whole wheat flour, you will need to add 2-3 tablespoons of milk until you get a doughy consistency. After you stir in the milk, knead the dough on a floured surface a few times to allow some gluten to develop. This helps the biscuit to rise up nicely. Brush the biscuits with a little milk or melted butter before baking to give them a nice golden brown color. Bake at 450 for 8-10 minutes

Can't you smell them now..... :)

Lies Satan Tells Us

2011-01-23T16:19:00.001-08:00

My church cell group has been watching the video series "The Power of Your Words" by Robert Morris and I can tell you that it is convicting and life-changing! I have an uncontrollable need to take notes every time I am there because there is SO much to learn. One session was on the lies that Satan feeds us. So tricky, is Satan, that these lies seems like truth:

Lie #1: We have the right of free speech. Actually, we don't. If it is wrong in God's standard, it doesn't matter what the world's standard is. Psalm 141:3 reminds us, "Take control of what I say, O Lord, and keep my lips sealed."

Lie #2: As long as we are just kidding, it is okay. If you say something, then most of the time you mean it. You can't follow up every sentence with "I was just kidding." You can be a black belt with your words; beating people up with your tongue. Remember that out of the heart, the mouth speaks.

Lie #3: As soon as our words are forgotten, the influence is gone. Absolutely false. Words do not evaporate - you either speak life or death with every sentence you speak. Some people have the ministry of tearing people down and being discouraging. Make sure this is NOT your ministry. Just like good words last, bad words last; and sometimes they last a life time.

Your words have the power to heal or wound; to encourage or dishearten; to speak truth or to deceive; to praise or to criticize.

Here are some more scriptures that should take residence in our heart and maybe as a post-it note on our mirror:

Matthew 12:36-37: "But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

Proverbs 19:21: “The tongue has the power of life and death.”

Proverbs 12:18: “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”

Proverbs 15:4: "The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”

If you raise the standards to the words your speak to others, your marriage will get better. Your kids will do better and your circumstances will improve. You can determine your future quality of life by the words you speak today.

I remember saying as a child, "But I don't have any control over what I say - it just comes out!" The sad truth is that we do have control but choose not to utilize it.

Your words are your choice...will you choose wisely?

Eleven Reasons to Keep Homeschooling

2011-01-23T07:55:00.000-08:00

Someone sent this to me and I thought it was note-worthy to send to my home schooling blogger friends out there!

Homeschooling is often hard work and sometimes discouraging because we’re stuck in the ruts and can’t envision the end results. As we near the halfway mark in the traditional school year (although we all know schooling actually goes on year-round), we would like to encourage our readers with some focus.

Reasons to homeschool vary almost as much as homeschoolers themselves. This is not an all-inclusive list, but we hope it is a reminder to you of why you began this task in the first place and the catalyst to keep at it.

1. You and your children can start every school day with God.
This includes prayer, Bible reading, songs and discussion. Our family is praying through a Voice of the Martyrs prayer calendar every day this year (arranged by country). We spent a few months last year praying specifically for all the homes on our street. We read missionary biographies regularly.

2. You are not in this alone.
God will sustain you in this homeschool journey. If you don’t have a supportive homeschool group, check CHEA’s Homeschool Directory for a group near you. Pray for God to provide you with godly encouragement from like-minded homeschoolers.

3. You don’t have to know everything to love and teach your children.
When you’re overwhelmed with a foreign language or geometry, resources exist to help. Co-ops, community college classes, online courses or curriculum, or a friend who is gifted in that area can help.

4. Your family will be stronger, and learn conflict resolution and grace.
My children are 2, 8, 12, and 14. If I wasn’t homeschooling, the kids would likely be scattered across town in different schools with separate lives. God set us in families for a reason. Let’s learn together how to face the world together and be prepared for the tasks God will give us.

5. You won’t miss anything.
If the kids are off in different schools, there are a vast number of their daily moments you will miss. A homeschooling veteran friend of mine once said: “They grow up so fast, but I have no regrets. I didn’t miss a single thing.”

6. You can reinforce what your children are learning.
When you see a Latin root, you can point it out (my kids’ favorite). When you see an image of a historical figure on TV, you can say, “Look kids – it’s Benjamin Franklin,” because you know what they are studying.

7. You can “do life” with your kids every day.
The kids can learn beside you in so many ways: grocery shopping, buying a used car, learning how to turn off the water when they accidentally break a pipe (the day after Christmas, no less), mowing the lawn, painting the kitchen, helping change the baby’s diaper, balancing a checkbook. I graduated first in my public high school class, but I barely knew how to do laundry and knew next to nothing about car maintenance.

8. You can teach your children Christian worldview in all that you do.
The state doesn’t choose the curriculum, you do. You are free to discuss God’s providence in history, His hand in science and nature, His beauty in music and art. You can ask yourself daily, “Are my children learning to be disciples of Christ?”

9. You can protect your children from negative influences and equip them for the future.
Of course the big, bad world is out there, but why not prepare the kids before sending them out to the wolves? How about teaching them discernment and truth first? Homeschool kids have been shown to be less peer dependent than their contemporaries.

10. Because when your kids need an answer, you are the someone who is there.
Not the feminist scholar. Not the atheist. Not the humanist. Not the media.

11. You can meet your child’s unique needs.
There is no “magic cookie cutter” that produces “educated” children. You know them better than anyone else, so help them find their God-given gifts and guide them through their weak spots.

Great reminders, fellow homeschoolers. Just remember...always start your day with God - if He's not in charge, you might as well go back to bed!

The Orange Strategy

2011-01-22T15:02:00.000-08:00

I was reading a website the other day that talked about the "Orange Philosophy." I copied this from their website in case you haven't heard:

"An Orange thinker asks, “What if church leaders and parents synchronized their efforts to fuel wonder, discovery and passion in the next generation?” By combining the critical influences of the light of the church (yellow) and the love of the family (red) the Orange Strategy shows a generation that God is more effective than either of us alone. Think of the Orange Strategy like a big fire poker. If you stoke up a fire, it burns brighter and longer. We stoke the fires of children and students with wonder, discovery and passion."

Here are some highlights of some of the training sessions that they do in different churches nation-wide:

* Teaching alone does not equal discipleship. Discipleship is teaching within a RELATIONSHIP.

* Until you allow kids to do something significant, they will not understand their own significance.

* The Gospel is transformational. If kids participate in The Great Commission, their faith will stick.

* As a leader, it's not about what I want from people but what I want for people.

* Kids need leaders who love and value them for free.

* No one has the influence that a parent does, but others do have influence. Who will the "others" be and how will they influence our kids?

* It's less about our ability to be appealing and more about the ability to be authentic.

Even though I haven't been to an Orange Thinker seminar, it seems that the bottom line is this: Whether it's with my kids or someone else's children, the most important things I have to offer are my time, my love and authenticity.

Are you an "orange thinker"?

Your Choice

2011-01-20T14:21:00.000-08:00

"Among the participants in a recent study of identical twins, there was a pair of brothers in their 40's whose lives were quite opposite. One of them was a happily married lawyer with a flourishing practice. The other was a twice-divorced alcoholic who had gone from job to job all his life. The questionnaire they filled out asked, "What made you the way you are?" The researchers were astonished that these two men had written identical answers to that question: "My father's death when I was ten years old."

I was saddened when I read the above but not truly shocked. I think we all know the underlying truth here...it is clearly not what happens to us that makes us happy or unhappy.

It is how we react.

If my husband rejects an idea I have, I can choose to give up or look for alternative ways. If there's a problem in a relationship I am in, I can blame the other person and walk away or I can see it as a way to learn more about how to love and show compassion. I can allow the stress in my life to make me sick or I can use it to make me stronger and more dependent on God. My weakness can defeat me or it can make me wonderfully aware of God's strength.

Lord, help me choose the way I react today...

The Conductor

2011-01-13T17:23:00.000-08:00

Why do we watch the conductor in music? To keep tempo, to see dynamics, for expression instructions...and the list goes on.

In a believers life, God is our conductor - He gives us our life's tempo, leads us in our expressions and dynamics. God is the source of life leading us through the troubled times, even putting down the baton and clapping out the tempo for the times when we can't see but maybe can hear. He conducts us through the dynamic ups and downs of life, celebrating with us when it is done correctly and working with us when it isn't quite right.

It's one thing to experience a piece of music being written in your own life, but it is something extraordinary to witness it in someone else's life - especially when it is one of your own children.

Two weeks ago, we invited some friends over to pray with us and our home to begin the new year. The Lord laid this heavy on my husbands heart, so he was following the Lord's prompting. I will blog more about what transpired that evening later, but I can tell you that it was the most incredible hour and a half prayer session that we have ever experienced.

My daughter began to weep as our friends prayed over her and her room. I believe this was the beginning of Victoria's score sheet.

Her demeanor changed - overnight.

There was something different in her eyes.

Then came Friday night Refuel - an extra worship service that our church has started doing once a month. I wasn't sure that we were going since my husband had been in TX for the last three days. He came home and announced that he did indeed want to go. I believe this angered Satan. Instantly, I began to get agitated at the smallest things. Then, when we told the kids what we had planned, Victoria got very upset. Satan was working hard to keep us from going. Once I finally received an attitude adjustment myself, we were ready to enter God's presence. Victoria's last words before we left the house were, "I don't want to go - it's nothing but singing and I can't sing. Why do I have to go?"

I hesitated going. I know she doesn't enjoy worship. She's deaf. She can hear the music but has no idea when to sing and when not to sing. She can read the words and tries to mouth them as she sees other peoples mouths moving, but that is the extent of her participation.

Then I felt the nudge - the Holy Spirit nudge. We had to go...we needed to go.

What awaited us? Two hours of the most incredible, candlelight worship experience I have had in quite a while. The freedom to worship as though you were the only person in the room. The presence of the Lord was so prevalent...so thick...so anointed. My 17 year old who played the guitar the entire time, even mentioned how strong God's presence was. He said, "I am physically, mentally exhausted but spiritually on top of the world!"

My daughter walked in the house and said, "Why do I feel this way?" When I tried to get her in touch with her feelings, all she could say was, "I think the Holy Spirit touched me. I feel different. I feel strange. Are they doing another service like that again? I want to go back!"

Oh.My.Stars!

I do believe I just witnessed the first notes being penned to her song...

The Map Unfolded Today!

2011-01-12T17:53:00.000-08:00

I am totally flabbergasted.

I just hung up with a friend, talking 90 miles an hour, in complete awe of how this day has turned out.

Mind-blowing. Jaw-dropping. Stupefying! (I love that word!)

Please forgive me, but I am going to have to be vague since the matter at hand is rather personal and private.

There was a chain of events that took place in our home last week that caused a ripple effect to transpire. My husband and I were at peace with the new decision (or so we thought) and were moving ahead with the only obvious answer at hand.

Unbeknownest to me, my husband began to feel uneasy about our decision and started praying that the Lord would open another door (this would have to be a miracle since there were no other avenues open last week). Well, it all unfolded today! When I sat down to read my devotion this morning, I was passionately moved. I knew of at least 4 people - including myself - who would benefit from the insightful words that Sarah Young penned, so I posted it on my blog. I finished my prayer time and went on with my day. it wasn't until after lunch that my whole world started in a head-throbbing, massive whirlwind!

After three hours of phone calls, emails and internet searching, the door was not only open but the road was completely paved!

I had tried on three different occasions to reach my husband to let him know what I was going through but was unsuccessful in reaching him at work. Although I was excited about what God had done, I had not realized to what extent He had been working. When I finally got a hold of Allen, I quickly told him about my unbelievable day and what direction our life was now taking! Much to my surprise, he was more than elated. He shared with me that this was a complete answer to prayer - something he had been praying about for days but never shared with me! Talk about confirmation - I feel so relieved and all giddy inside!

Then I received icing on the cake...when I sat down to write this blog, my previous blog popped up. I couldn't believe what I was reading again - it was my devotion from this morning:

"Let me prepare you for the day that stretches out before you. I know exactly what this day will contain, whereas you have only vague ideas about it. You would like to see a map, showing all the twists and turns of your journey....I will not show you what is on the road ahead, but I will thoroughly equip you for the journey."

I have never read the same devotion in the morning and again at night. It was amazing how the words that God spoke to me through my devotion this morning is exactly what happened to my day - He had it all planned out. He had the map and all I had to do was trust Him. WOW!

I can tell you that Satan is NOT happy with these results or my public declaration of God's all-powerful, mighty hand that completely orchestrated these events to HIS will. Right in the middle of typing this blog, I had to stop and pray and scream for Satan to flee in the name of Jesus! He began to put doubt in my mind that tomorrow these events will begin to crumble right before my eyes. It will not happen, Satan - my God is in complete control and you are completely powerless! So, hit the road Jack and don't come back!! Okay - I feel better :)What an astonishing God we serve! Thank you is just not sufficient, Lord. Such a remedial, empty word for what You do for us.

You are truly indescribable!

A Map for Today

2011-01-12T05:14:00.000-08:00

This is 100% copied from my devotion called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. It is written in first person with God as the speaker and is just too good not to pass along...

"Let me prepare you for the day that stretches out before you. I know exactly what this day will contain, whereas you have only vague ideas about it. You would like to see a map, showing all the twists and turns of your journey. You'd feel more prepared if you could somehow visualize what is on the road ahead. However, there is a better way to be prepared for whatever you will encounter today: Spend quality time with Me.

I will not show you what is on the road ahead, but I will thoroughly equip you for the journey. My living Presence is your Companion each step of the way. Stay in continual communication with Me, whispering My Name whenever you need to redirect your thoughts. Thus, you can walk through this day with your focus on Me. My abiding Presence is the best road map available."

I pray this is just what you needed to hear today. I love the way God speaks right to my soul and knows exactly where I am - mentally and spiritually - every moment of each day.

Girlfriends in God

2011-01-07T04:37:00.000-08:00

When bad things happen, we cry out in desperation for someone to care.

A simple text message or a lengthy, alarming phone call. What we desire is to hear a compassionate voice on the other end of the phone.

I am reminded of the story of the little girl who was sent on an errand by her mother. When the girl was gone far too long, the mother demanded an explanation. The little girl said that on her way she had met a friend who was crying because she had broken her doll. "Oh," said the mother, "then you stopped to help her fix her doll?" "Oh, no!" replied the little girl. "I stopped to help her cry!"

Sometimes that's all we need. Someone to help us cry. We not only need God in the midst of a storm, we need each other.

If I know my friend is unable to speak because the words are blocked by the huge boulder of insurmountable salt water ready to burst through her sockets, my floodgate of tears immediately opens. I loose all control and begin to weep with her. More times than not, that's all she wanted.

Kindness. Compassion. Empathy.

Words that need to be practiced DAILY in our interactions with the people we meet - those special to us as well as complete strangers. A sweet word. A sincere hug. I gentle reminder that nothing surprises God and that He loves us beyond measure.

Kindness is simply compassion at work and love in action. I often wonder just how amazed we will be when we get to Heaven and find the unlikely, unknown but devoted servants of God exalted above all others - rewarded for their quiet and often unseen acts of kindness. Kindness does not look for reasons. Compassion doesn't ask for limitations - it searches for opportunity.

Paul writes that we must "prove" ourselves by being patient and kind. How we handle relationships exhibits the depth and validity of God's love at work in and through us.

As I posted on Facebook last week...I hate storms, but have finally come to terms with the fact that they are certain. So is God's deliverance. Sometimes He delivers us from the storm and other times He delivers us in the storm. Either way, God is with us.

I love the girlfriends in my life - I love the strength I draw from them, the compassion I receive from their words, the Biblical wisdom they instill in me and the accountability that is always there.

The next time you are at the other end of a heart-breaking phone call, remember to just stop and listen. Hear her heart and when the time is right, shower her with your golden nuggets of insight.

Or maybe...just cry with her.

One Thousand Gifts

2011-01-05T20:41:00.001-08:00

"As the moments slip down the hour glass of time, I am scratching down the gifts—just as they happen, as they arrive, as they are unwrapped—that He has given that make my life grace, the daily graces that He gives in an infinite number of ways, that stir me."

I love reading her writing...and learning about the 1000 Gift List was just what we needed - another special moment for my kids and I to share together as we start our morning.

"I am seeing things I have never seen before, attuned and aware of this constant, endless stream of gifts from His hand. I am one waking from slumber….from the stupor of indifference and ignorance. I have sight, fresh and keen—the world is new and full of His gifts."

Ann Voskamp's website is my new passion. Her words drip off the page right into my soul and strike chords that only He knew existed. This complete stranger writes in such a way that I sit back in awe, wondering if she has been secretly living in a corner of my abode.

She reminds us that we often we "miss" Him...what He has created; what He has graced us with. Fulling seeing yet completely blind. The Gift List makes us aware of His love, His presence and His ability. It helps us acknowledge what He has showered us with and to pay attention to the little details of the world He has given us.

"We need to have everyday epiphanies everywhere." I love that. I think I will make that my statement and goal for 2011!

What are you thankful for? The sound of a windmill...the smell of fresh baked bread...the baby frog in your flowerbed...listening to your children laugh...cracking open a new book...your friend who always has a listening ear...just writing them down as they happen begins your gratitude journey.

Ann states that, "The Thousand Gifts list is about the gifts Abba gives His children every day… and, ultimately, about the very gift of self, life as we know it."

As I began to read further, I found this interesting conclusion:

Participants who kept a gratitude journal felt better about their lives as a whole and were more optimistic about the future. They reported feeling more joyful, enthusiastic, interested, attentive, energetic, excited, determined, and strong.

We have started our gratitude journey with The Thousand Gift List. Won't you start yours today? I believe it will change you forever...eternally.

A Memorable December...

2011-01-04T14:47:00.000-08:00

WOW!! It's been 14 days since I last wrote a blog! But what is so exciting is that I vowed to myself I wouldn't write a sentence in my blog during the holidays while all the grandparents were here and although it was difficult, I was able to be true to my word (it was just an internal vow, but I still felt good about not breaking my own promise!)

Now that I am biting at the bit, I don't know where to begin :)

First and foremost, I can say that the family time we had together during December was amazing and much needed. Kyle (our 17 year old son) is usually at church, work or concurrent at school, so we get very little quality time with him. I always take three weeks off from schooling Adam and Victoria, so it was 100% playtime in our house! Here are some of the highlights of our three week sabbatical:

* 3-4 hours of game playing everyday (one day we spent 4 hours playing Monopoly!)
* Candlelight dinner together every evening till Christmas Day
* Watched movies that made us laugh and cry together
* Incredible brunch at Bellini's - highly recommend this restaurant!
* Shopped till our money was all gone :)
* We visited Walmart everyday for 8 days in a row - we're going to add this to our 12 days of Christmas for next year - haha!
* Awesome girl time while we all got new hairdo's!
* The men enjoyed two hours of listening to different muffler sounds on old trucks on YouTube - they laughed hysterically!
* Baked and baked and then ate enough sugar to last us all year long (although I did make a healthy honey apple pie and honey cinnamon rolls :)
* Reminisced at pictures taken during the 2010 year - amazed at how the kids have changed
* Met daddy for lunch while he was on his break at Iguana's - love their salsa!
* Experienced the Bricktown Water Taxi while it was 70 degrees and gorgeous - then treated everyone to Toby Keiths for dinner!
* Drove around town for two hours looking at Christmas lights at Chesapeake and gorgeous Nicholas Hills
* Stayed up until the wee morning hours just catching up on each others lives
* Slept in so late many mornings that we only had to eat two meals!!
* Scrolled through my Facebook to show everyone all my photo albums - we really did a lot in one year!

Most importantly, we talked, laughed, cried, talked, laughed and talked some more.

Everyone is gone now...including the two dogs we were pet sitting and the house is back in order. The amount of clutter and disarray from having eight people living in the same house for 14 days is incredible. Funny thing is, I wouldn't have changed a thing. I have learned to relax in the midst of chaos to enjoy what really matters - people not perfection.

I pray your holidays were festive and that you made memories that can be talked about for years and years to come.

Thanks for letting me share...it's been a joy :)

Christmas Bells

2010-12-21T05:18:00.000-08:00

Sunday School was amazing this past week. The amount of hours that Eric spends in preparing for our class is so evident in his teaching and passion. Not only do his lessons inspire me to grow spiritually, but I usually learn something historically as well. This week was no different. Eric shared the history behind the famous song "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day". If you're ready for a small history lesson, allow me to share.

Longfellow was the most popular poet of his day and is generally regarded as the most distinguished poet the country had produced. A friend once wrote to him that no other poet was so fully recognized in his lifetime. Many of his works helped shape the American character and its legacy, particularly with the poem "Paul Revere's Ride". He was such an admired figure in the United States during his life that his 70th birthday in 1877 took on the air of a national holiday, with parades, speeches, and the reading of his poetry. Henry had his share of suffering as well. While in their own home, his wife's dress caught fire while standing near the heater. Henry awakened from his nap to her screams and was able to put the fire out. Unfortunately, she was too badly burned and passed away the next morning. In Henry's attempt to save his wife, his face was badly burned which resulted in the beard that adorned his face, becoming his trademark.

Almost a year later, Longfellow received word that his oldest son Charles, a lieutenant in the Army of the Potomac, had been severely wounded with a bullet passing under his shoulder blades and taking off one of the spinal processes. Filled with grief, from the past years events, Longfellow penned the words of the poem "Christmas Bells" on Christmas Day of 1864:

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Till ringing, singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head
“There is no peace on earth,” I said,
“For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.”

Several months later, the poem was decorated with musical notes and sung by an all boys choir. Today, there are over 15 different versions of this beautiful song. This happens to be my favorite:
Enjoy the holidays as you worship Jesus Christ, the son of the living God!

My Favorite Essential Oils

2010-12-10T13:56:00.001-08:00

Several people have asked me about the essential oils I use and some of their benefits. I decided to list my top oils and how to apply them for certain illnesses. There are over 160 oils that Young Living carriers, so this is obviously just a scratch on the surface. However, the oils listed here are ones that I make sure I am never out of. In fact, most of them I always have two bottles on hand!

Lavender:
Antiseptic, anti-fungal, relaxant, anti-inflammatory, reduces cholesterol and good for respiratory infections Also helps with high blood pressure, pms, (works great with my 14 year old daughter) skin conditions, eczema, stretch marks, burns, hair loss and insomnia

Peppermint:
Anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, pain reliever, curbs appetite, respiratory infections, arthritis, cold sores, headaches, digestive problems, nausea, skin conditions, back problems, constipation, breath freshener and drains sinuses. This is my all-time favorite oil!

Lemon:
Antiseptic immune stimulant, improves memory and relaxation. Helps with varicose veins, anxiety, acne, digestive problems, sore throat and urinary track infections. I use this daily on my kids right before we start school. I love to diffuse this oil during test days!

Balsam Fir:
Throat/sinus infection, fatigue, arthritis urinary tract infections relaxant

Cedarwood:
Hair loss, antibacterial, ADHD, eczema and allergies

Melrose:
Topical antiseptic, clean/disinfects cuts, scrapes, burns and rashes

Oregano:
Anti-bacterial, anti fungal, immune stimulant, arthritis, respiratory infection and digestive problems

RC:
Apply to chest, neck and throat area for relief from breathing issues related to asthma, colds, bronchitis, sore throat, sinusitis, coughs and upper respiratory infections. It decongests sinus passages, combats lung infections and relives allergy symptoms. Excellent oil to diffuse and inhale. This has stopped my daughter an mother in-law from an asthma attack more than once.

I hope this small list has given you a good, detailed account as to what oils can help with certain ailments and how to administer them. I have only been using the oils for about 1-1/2 years now, so I am by no means an expert, but would love to answer any questions you have. The 8-1/2 x 11 desk reference book I just bought is amazing and can probably answer any question looming in your mind! Although I am a distributor with Young Living, I do not run this as a business, but just pass the word on how amazing these oils are. They truly have replaced numerous pharmaceutical medications in our household. I sell to my friends the wholesale price that I pay, so if you would like to order anything, just let me know.

Happy healthy living, my friends!

Adam's Character Sketch

2010-12-09T13:10:00.001-08:00

As the last day of school looms in the air, I assign my son an end-of-the-school-year paper. Words cannot begin to express the exuberant amount of joy that overtook his soul. Because of my crafty, witty words and over-demonstrative role playing, I was able to capture the significance of this paper with such flair that Adam was racing to the pencil box in search of a newly sharpened writing instrument...ok, ok, you have officially witnessed my first and foremost earthy gift - sarcasm :)

Seriously now, with all that aside, I would like to present to you Adam's short essay on Laura Ingalls (we are studying all eight books as part of our curriculum this year):"Laura Ingalls is a charming girl who has a blind sister that she cares for so much that she wanted her sister to go to college. Laura has always been her "eyes", meaning she tells her what she sees. She has a mom and dad who she respects and honors. She also cares for them and loves them. Laura has a baby sister named Grace. Laura watches out for her and take good care of her and has always thought Grace was beautiful. Laura never liked to be civilized. She was always wild and free and likes to be outside - just like me!"

Sentence structure has always been a challenge for Adam - even 6 months ago, writing a letter to a friend would take days and days of rough drafts and constant erasing. Considering grammar and writing are his weak spots, I think he did a pretty good job capturing the true image of Laura. Good job, little man - momma's proud of you!

By the way, son, have an awesome three week Christmas break!

Suggested Christmas Traditions

2010-12-06T06:13:00.000-08:00

On Monday of this week, I posted a Facebook status asking for everyone's Christmas tradition. I really liked a lot of the responses I received, so I thought I would compile them here for all to read and possibly gleam a new tradition for your family.

I have added our personal traditions along with some of my friends:

* We attend 2 candlelight services on Christmas eve - one at 8 pm and one at 11 pm. Following the 11pm we go to Ihop for breakfast - then home to open presents at 2 am. On Christmas night we go to our church to cook and serve the homeless of OKC. We offer food, movies, stockings and a Christmas to remember

* One friend told me that they allow their children to pick one small item out of their stockings each night before Christmas Day. I liked that idea and decided to find 12 small gifts (the stocking gifts I buy are always under $5) and incorporate that into our 12 Days of Christmas Theme. I somehow disguise the items that would be have been obvious just by feeling inside the stocking!

* We always make a birthday cake on Christmas Eve and write "Happy Birthday Jesus" on it and then consume it for breakfast with our egg casserole - it's a day of eating unhealthy so we pull out all the stops!

* On Christmas morning, we read the story found in Luke and then pray together. One of the boys play a Christmas song on the piano or guitar while we all sing together. It's such a relaxing and reverent time just before the gifts are handed out.

* My husband plays "Santa" and only gives each child one gift at a time. We do not have this "hustle bustle" of paper flying everywhere while the whole event is over in 15 minutes. Each person has their own time where everyone else is watching to see what they received. A million pictures are taken and the whole process usually lasts over an hour!

* Our children only receive three gifts and we do not spend a lot of money. Most of the gifts given to our friends and grandparents are hand made which makes the family time before Christmas memorable as well.

* On Christmas Eve, we sing some fun Christmas songs and then the kids each get to open one gift (picked by mom and dad). It's always PJ's so that they have new jammies to sport for pictures the next day!

* We play Christmas music while we decorate the house and tree. Brownies are always tantalizing us with their incredible smell while baking. When they are finished, we always take a break to devour a warm brownie before we finish 'decking the halls!'

I hope you enjoy your holiday festivities this year and possibly borrow a new tradition or two. Remember that Christmas actually means "more of Christ" so from our family to yours...Merry Christmas!

Crock Pot Meatballs

2010-12-05T14:20:00.000-08:00

These are very easy to make and extremely tasty. Though the sauce has some unusual ingredients, I promise you that your family will love these. You can make them with 100% ground beef or do pork sausage instead of turkey sausage. Sorry - no picture this time (I hauled them off to our ladies Christmas party and totally forgot!)

1-1/2 lbs of ground beef
1 lb of turkey sausage
2 cups cracker crumbs
2 beaten eggs
1 cup milk
salt and pepper

Mix all together and form balls. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

Simmer these items in the crock pot while the meatballs are cooking:
2 bottles chili sauce
10 oz grape jelly
1 cup water

Once meatballs are finished cooking, place them in the crock pot sauce and stir. Simmer for 1-2 hours. 30 minutes before serving, add 8 oz of sour cream and mix well.

This is one of those recipes that is even better warmed up the next day! My husband loves to take the leftovers and put them on a toasted hoagie bun with some provolone cheese and green peppers...yum yum!

Thanksgiving Eve

2010-11-26T13:15:00.001-08:00

If you follow me on Facebook, you are already aware of the eventful Thanksgiving Eve we had at our house. Let me just say that it was one-of-a-kind...history in the making for the Flint Household!

I'll let the cat out of the bag from the get-go and show you the picture...To answer the questions running through your mind right now:

1. No - Allen was not doing a redneck brake job
2. No - we were not trying to put new tires on ourselves because we are just that frugal
3. Yes - that is our neighbors brick from her landscaping
4. No - we do not live in downtown Los Angeles
5. Yes - this is how we started our Thanksgiving Eve day at the crack of dawn

So....what did happen? We got hit. We were the victims of useless boys who prowl the streets at 2 am looking for someone to violate. I hate crime and I hate satan.

My husband walks out the door at 6:45 am to start his car and this is what he found. He couldn't even speak when he walked back into the house and motioned for me to 'come' with one hand.

We had just purchased those tires - they weren't even two months old. However, they did leave us one. Apparently something spooked them since the last tire was half off with the lug nuts in the grass. Yippee - one tire left!

Why am I writing this blog? To share with you our frustrations so you can share in our anger? No. So that you will feel sorry for us and speak curses to those that did this? No. In case you find three wheels for sale on the black market and can return them to us? Yes! (hehe!)

Seriously now, the reason I just have to share this is because of my husband's response not more than 45 minutes after the incident was discovered.

Since it was the big Thanksgiving luncheon at work and so that he didn't have to take a vacation day, I took him to work. I had a gazillion (yes, that is a word!) things to do and needed my car. So, here we are in the car alone. I'm still peeved. The tears keep rolling down my cheek totally out of my control. I feel this righteous indignation well up within me. I'm as pale as a ghost. My hands are quivering from my internal shakiness. I'm wondering what financial predicament this puts us in.

My husband? He is all smiles...like a little school boy. WHY???

He turns to me and says, "Honey, why are you so upset?" At this point, I was ready to give him the one-two with my fist! How in the world could he ask me such a stupid question? Is it not obvious - is he not in cahoots with me? Well, no, he wasn't.

The next sentence out of his mouth left me baffled. Angry at first, then convicted, completely amazed and lastly...totally speechless (and for me to be speechless is quite the feat!).

With an all-teeth smile on his face, he lovingly comments, "It's a good day, sweetie. It's crazy but what's done is done. It could have been a lot worse. They could have broke into the house. No one got hurt and it's just money. We are blessed, hon."

There you have it. My husband - the epitome of a natural-born optimist. This is definitely one of those moments when I can say that I wish I were more like him. What an incredible outlook. He sure does challenge me - in a healthy, spiritual way.

Thanks, babe, for bringing perspective to a horrible situation. You are right. Everyone is safe and we do have insurance. Although our money tree out back is dry, God has always provided for us. I have no doubt that He will come through with flying colors in this situation, too.

I am so blessed to be able to spend the rest of my life with you...you are the best :)

Like Mother, Like Daughter

2010-11-26T13:12:00.000-08:00

I'm really kind of shocked but rather pleased. Even in my ripe age of 43, my daughter wants to look just like me! What I think is so funny is that I felt the same way she does when I was her age. My mom and I shared clothes, shoes and purses. I can even remember being upset with my mom when she chopped all her hair off without telling me. I was left with long hair while she had short hair. I wanted to be just like her (of course she took me to the salon the very next day!)

Victoria is the same way. We both picked up the same shirt in different colors at the same time! Whenever I buy a piece of clothing, she always asks if it is for her, too. There are some things that look too mature for her, but for the most part, we share shirts, skirts and some pants (can't do shoes since her foot is bigger than mine!) I bought myself a sweater dress about three weeks ago in off-white at the mall. Yesterday, she bought the exact same dress in purple at Kohl's! After we got home and kept looking at her dress, we decided that it looked very familiar. Then I remembered my dress (since the weather hasn't been cold enough, I hadn't worn it yet, so it actually slipped my mind!) Sure enough, we are twins again!If I straighten my hair, she wants hers straightened. When I curl mine, she is at my door waiting for her turn. The day before we left on our vacation to California, I had 8" of my hair cut off. I walked in the door and Victoria had the same look I had with my mom 30 years ago. She wanted her hair layered, thinned and styled like mine! Within hours, I had her back at the same salon so we both ended up sporting new 'dos' for our westward bound trip!

So, history repeats itself in the Flint house and if the truth be known, I am rather honored at her desire to mimic me. I know one day all of this will change and I will truly be "too old" for her style. For right now, though, I am going to sit back with a smile on my face and try not to get upset when I can't find my favorite shirt in my closet!

Sifting Epidemic Alert!

2010-11-21T12:23:00.001-08:00

"Wow - I've really had a hard month."

"I just can't believe the summer we have experienced - trial after trial."

"I just keep wondering...when will this all end?"

"Okay, Lord....enough is enough."

"What else does God want to teach me? I've never had a year like this!"

I'm just curious how many of you have either uttered these sentences (or the like) yourself or have had a friend say them to you? Not only has my year been unbelievable, but at each turn, I constantly hear my fellow christian friends saying the same thing. I've heard statements similar to the above three times just this week from very dear friends of mine.

Why?

There has to be a reason why God's children are being tried and tested - even more so than ever before. I realize that our current 2010 situations do not compare to the persecutions of the early disciples but it does seem to be more prevalent than ever.

Possibly God is preparing us...perhaps we are in need of massive pruning as Satan continues his constant trek to pull us down and alter our commitments to the one true God.

I have always used that word - pruning. Then just today I met with a friend for a brief moment. She, too, has had a challenging year. As she prepares her mind and spirit for her young son's surgery tomorrow, she commented that she was being sifted again.

Sifted? I mentally stopped in my tracks and was speechless. She told me that she used to say pruned but that she felt sifted was a more appropriate word for what the Lord was doing in her life. After all, when you sift something, you are trying to separate the good from the bad - remove all impurities. Wow!

According to Webster, the definition of sift is to scrutinize, inspect, search or probe. To examine closely. I would have to agree that it sounds like that is exactly what the Lord is doing to our character...examining it closely and removing all impurities. Maybe that's why James instructs us to "count it pure joy for the many trials that we face for it is through the testing of our faith that develops perseverance."

Thank you, my friend, for being a vessel of the Lord today and shedding new light on what God is doing with his Children. Maybe we don't beg for the character training and sifting, but we should welcome it and learn from it. After all, He does know what He is doing and never makes any mistakes!

Southwest Skillet

2010-11-20T18:47:00.001-08:00

One of my closest friends, Crystal, gave me this recipe last week. Even though my family is not thrilled with beans and rice mixed in with other foods, everyone absolutely loved this recipe! It is so easy and quick to fix.

Southwest Skillet

1 lb ground beef - seasoned
1 T chili powder
10 oz beef broth
1/4 c water
1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained (I used navy beans but I'm sure any kind would be fine)
3/4 c uncooked instant brown rice
1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese

Cook ground beef with chili powder and seasonings; drain fat. Stir in broth, water, tomatoes, and beans. Heat to a boil. Cover and cook for 10 minutes on low heat. Remove from heat. Stir in rice. Cover and let stand 5 minutes or so. Top with cheese.

Serve with tortilla chips, flour tortillas or eat it just as it is! Can top with sour cream and salsa for even more flavor!

Thank you, Crystal, for sharing the recipe and for the beautiful picture!

Basil-Roasted Red Pepper Spread

2010-11-15T06:34:00.000-08:00

1/4 cup drained roasted red peppers
5 pitted black olives, chopped
1 tub (12 0z) cream cheese
1/4 cup lightly packed fresh basil
1 clove garlic
Handful of sliced almonds
Crackers

Chop peppers and olives and set aside. Blend cream cheese, basil and garlic. Clean cream cheese tub and line with plastic wrap. Spoon 1/2 cup cream cheese mixture into tub; top with olive mixture and then remaining cream cheese. Press firmly into tub. Refrigerate one hour. Unmold onto plate and discard plastic wrap. Top with nuts and peppers. Serve with crackers.

(Now my notes on how I will change it for the next time...I could not find the 12 oz cream cheese tub so I just used 1-1/2 blocks and found a wide cup to press it into. I really don't care for the marks that the plastic wrap left. Next time, I will find the tub or something smaller and wider and just pack it in there. I'm thinking it may just 'pop' out or with the help of a knife around the edges, it will easily fall out. I will also use more peppers and 2 garlic cloves. It was very tasty and was consummed within 15 minutes but I think it needed more flavor. This was very easy to make and definitely received an A for presentation!)

Jesus is Calling...

2010-11-11T16:20:00.000-08:00

I just have to share my devotion from the other day. It was too powerful to keep to myself! It is from a special book called Jesus Calling that a friend gave to me. I read three different devotions each morning in addition to the Bible, but I especially love this book because of its uniqueness. It is written in first person which means it is as though Jesus were sitting on your footstool, face to face, speaking life into you.

The words are from missionary Sarah Young's personal prayer journal. After many years, she decided to record what the Lord had laid on her heart in hopes of forever changing those who read it. I truly do cherish it each day I pick it up.

"Do not let any set of circumstances intimidate you. The more challenging your day, the more of My Power I place at your disposal. You seem to think that I empower you equally each day, but this is not so. Your tendency upon awakening is to assess the difficulties ahead of you, measuring them against your average strength. This is an exercise in unreality.

I know what each of your days will contain, and I empower you accordingly. The degree to which I strengthen you on a given day is based mainly on two variables: the difficulty of your circumstances and your willingness to depend on Me for help. Try to view challenging days as opportunities to receive more of My Power than usual. Look to Me for all that you need and watch to see what I will do. As your day, so shall your strength be."

May the Lord bless you today and may your strength and peace come from Him.

Thankful for Facebook!

2010-11-10T04:19:00.000-08:00

I truly never thought I would say this and I know it may seem odd, but I am SO thankful for Facebook! I just absolutely love it! Strangely enough, it seems to be my guidance and personal counselor at times. Why? Because of my dear friends and the encouragement I receive from posting a simple sentence as my status.

Once Facebook became another family member, it didn't take long before I was massively addicted! I struggled with utilizing self-control as I wanted to be with my new BFF for hours and hours. I could learn so much in such a little time with my new friend. I could post pictures and share with the world my precious family and all of our adventures. I could write what's on my heart and with a simple click, hundreds of people could read what I penned. I now had the ability to send a quick note to multiple friends that I otherwise would never have communicated with. It's so easy and user friendly and non-intrusive. I have reconnected with people I haven't heard from or seen in 20 years. Within 10 minutes, I can write on 10-15 friends wall to let them know I am thinking about them. That would have been over an hour phone call if I didn't have Facebook!

Of course, the newness has worn off and now Facebook and I have a healthy, relaxed relationship which I have come to adore :)

I just want to say a BIG 'thank you' to my friends who take the time to make a comment about my status. Most of the time, I post things that are just plain fun or alerts about sale items. But there are times when I am frustrated with something and will type a statement that lets you know I'm struggling. My last status about teaching my son math is one example. Thank you, Deanna Shrodes - your words were just what I needed to hear that day. I now have a new perspective this morning and fresh, life-giving words ready to share with my son.

Not only is it beneficial to know that others feel my pain and are praying, but just as important are the words of encouragement that permanently lie on my wall for my viewing and anyone who visits me. Those that have taken the time to write from your heart usually touch mine in a way that convicts me (in a good way!) or brings a tear to my eye. To those I say - "thank you"!

I love you all, my friends, and dear Facebook...thank you for making your way into my home. You have been a blessing as well :)

Hats Off to My Man!

2010-11-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

I've written several blogs lately about my family and how thankful I am for them, but none have been specifically tailored to my soul mate...the man who changed everything. My hubby met me when I was 18 and full of life, energy and ideas. I flat-out told him that I had no intentions of ever marrying or having children. Oh, such foolish words!

So, here you are honey...this ones for you :) I love you because....

* No matter what, you always pray with me every morning before we separate

* You are supportive in everything I do including all my crazy ideas and new rules!

* You have proven over and over that you are my biblical covering and protector

* Even though I may not like it at the time, you give me a reality check when it comes to parenting and steer me down a different and better path!

* You not only have provided wholesome, organic venison for our table, but have taught both your sons as well

* You are the daddy that your little girl adores!

* Your special Sunday morning breakfast dates with the kids are priceless

* You are intelligent, logical and full of common sense as well as compassionate, understanding and intuitive to my feelings

* After 20 years of marriage, you still want the best for me and enjoy our alone time!

* You have financially provided for our family WELL above my expectations

* You are goal-driven which means you are always thinking about our future

* Modern day Good Samaritan - that's who you are. I've lost track of how many people you've helped that were stranded on the side of the road

* You still enjoy kissing me :)

* You're not too proud to admit your faults or willingness to change when the need arises

* Even though you've only been to the dentist 4 times in 14 years, you have perfect, white teeth!!

* Those 11:00 at night Walmart runs you do for me...unbelievable!

* The volunteer time at our church and your commitment level - surpasses anyone I know

* You fix nearly everything with our cars and the house...hardware, plumbing, woodwork and electrical - what a boat-load of money you have saved us!

* You can cook a mean egg sandwich!

* Most important of all...you have never left the toilet seat up so that I would fall into the bowl!!!Thank you babe, for who you are and for allowing the Lord to transform you into an incredible man of God. I love you more than you could ever imagine.

I look forward to another 20 years with the only one who could have ever put up with me for this long! There's no one like you, my love!

Character Trait of the Year...Patience

2010-11-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

I HATE being sick. I think that is a blanket statement that everybody can probably say amen to. But I really hate it. I have always bragged that I am rarely ever sick and that I have only been to the doctor 5 times in the 14 years we have lived here.

However, 2010 managed to change everything for me. If you've read my previous blogs, you know about my other incidents starting in March...esophagus issues, sliced open forehead demanding stitches and massive kidney stones requiring three laser surgeries. I thought I was finished; ready to move on with my "healthy" life and get back on track.

Then last week, my body decided to pass a nice-sized stone that was left over from the blasting - 7 more hours in ER...ugh. (my husband asked if we could get a member discount from the hospital!) I finally get through that only to acquire what they think was the Norovirus 6 days later from eating at Cheesecake Factory with my girlfriends.

OK -- ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!

I'm still puny, weak as a kitten, fever and body aches, but I think the worst of it is over. It would be rather uncouth for me to describe in detail how awful this virus is, so let me just say that you don't EVER want it as long as you live! So...guess what I'm learning this year?

Patience is something to treasure.

Being in control is really out of my control.

Do the best you can and leave the rest up to the Lord.

Don't ever take your health for granted.

Be thankful for your incredible family and how you can all be there for each other.

Oh, and one more...never eat out at a restaurant again! Ok, I'm sure that last one won't stick, but it's the way I feel right now!

That's all I have to say for now. Back to the couch I go since it has taken me over an hour to type this blog!

Let me challenge you to look at the positive and negative events that transpire in your life and see what the Lord is trying to teach you...I believe there's always a golden nugget in there somewhere :)

What Foundation are You Setting?

2010-10-27T17:36:00.001-07:00

My kids have really been on my mind lately. I am constantly in a state of wondering what else I need to teach them and 'do they know enough.' Truth is, they are not toddlers any more. At 12, 14 and 17, they have their own thought process and way of thinking. They need further explanations with each question they ask and the questions are quite thought-provoking now! There are just so many thoughts to sort through as a parent, home educator, spiritual trainer, counselor, mediator, etc.

Did I lead them down the right path? I know what I taught them, but did my own personal example just crush what they've heard me say for years? I always try to point them back to the cross but what did they think when they witnesses my own sins in action? If I talk about and demand mutual respect then why don't I always give it to them like I expect them to treat me? Are they curt with each other because I was like that with them just the day prior?

So many questions...so few answers.

I've noticed that our home education hours are more Biblically led. We talk about our devotions during breakfast and even the sentences that I dictate are spiritual in nature. I have this overwhelming passion to give them such a strong moral foundation and I don't believe that even at their age, that I am finished yet. My 12 year old son asks often for us to come together and pray - several times a day. This is good! He is already so intuitive that he knows when things don't 'feel' right and that the answer is prayer.

Though I am far from perfect in any area of my life, I do feel that I am extremely blessed with three incredible children that love the Lord.

Nothing makes a momma more proud than when someone compliments your child. I think the Lord knew I needed some extra warm fuzzies this week and so He sent some special people my way. I'm sure they didn't even realized they were being used by the Lord.

Little comments like, "Wow, your son sure is polite." "Does he ever NOT smile?" "He is so mannerly." "She has such a sweet spirit and I love her smile." "I can't believe your 17 year old still says Mr. and Mrs. when addressing people. That is so rare these days." Sometimes complete strangers utter these words, which make me just giggle inside! Only two days ago, I had the special treat of experiencing my own children myself. I witnessed that even though they are normal kids who argue and get punished, when the rubber meets the road, they rise to the occasion.

My pain started at 10 in the morning and only got worse as the hours progressed. That's when the transformation started. I watched my children turn into incredible servants - the event demanding it and they were there. They waited on me hand and foot and even cooked lunch with me shouting directions every few minutes! When the pain was too great, my eldest drove me to ER where I spent the next 7 hours passing a kidney stone. (Definitely not on my list of fun and exciting ways to spend your day!)

A smile drew across my face when I entered the kitchen at 8 pm. The house was clean, dishes done, tile vacuumed and their school work completed (as much as they could!)

After I hugged and praised them, I went to bed feeling the Lord's embrace around my body. They are good kids and I am proud to call them mine. I have always said that I want them to grow up and be a blessing to people. That day...they were a blessing to me.

If you haven't done this today - go hug your kids and tell them how special they are and what a treat it is that God gave them to YOU!Thank you Kyle, Victoria and Adam - I love you...to the moon and back!

Chile-Egg Bake

2010-10-26T05:38:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe and just had to try it! I have made Quiche' before but the kids all hate it. This was a cross between Quiche' and an omelette and I am happy to report that it was delicious and passed the "kid test"!

10 eggs
4 oz shredded mild cheddar
4 oz shredded Monterey Jack
1/2 cup flour
16 oz cottage cheese
4-oz can diced green chiles, drained
1 tsp salt
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 tsp onion powder

Mist a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, beat eggs on medium until pale yellow and doubled in size. Toss cheese with four then add to eggs. Add remaining ingredients until combined.

Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until center is firm.

For those that know me, you'll remember that I am always tweaking recipes. I only did 4 tablespoons of butter and since I didn't have unsalted, I just used regular butter. I totally forgot about the onion powder (which I don't think the kids missed) and to make it more fulfilling, I added 1/2 pound of low-sodium turkey sausage. Next time, I will half the recipe since it was a lot for just the four of us.

You could make it up tonight and stick it in the fridge so it is ready to pop in the oven in the morning...just a thought :)

Soft Pumpkin Cookies

2010-10-23T07:37:00.000-07:00

These made my mouth water...they are more like individual small “cakes” but oh so yummy! Super easy recipe for the junior bakers in your life :)

1 can 100% pure pumpkin (a 14 oz can)
2 medium eggs
1/2 cup of applesauce
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 package spice cake mix(size: 18.25 ounce)
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves

(NOTE: I used 2 teaspoons of cinnamon and instead of canned pumpkin, I always use the pumpkin puree I have in my freezer from cooking pumpkins and squash after each Thanksgiving. Also, I think I'll only use 1/4 cup of applesauce the next time as they were a little 'too' moist for us)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees . Grease two baking sheets. Beat the pumpkin, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla together in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the cake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Drop by spoonfuls on greased baking sheets. Bake in preheated oven until tops are firm when lightly touched, 8 to 10 minutes. Cool and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

2010-10-23T06:35:00.000-07:00

I honestly can't remember what I did the other day, but my daughter asked me what I was doing and how did I know to do that. "Ummm...I don't know...I've just always done it!" Not much of an answer but it got me thinking about all the tricks, tips, substitutions and shortcuts that so many of us use. Where did I learn all this stuff? Although some of it was trial and error, a lot of these ideas came from my friends, books and magazines. So, I thought I would share a few of my favorite tips and their origination. This is a book that MUST don your bookshelf! I bought this about 13 years ago but can't tell you how many times I have re-read it! Mary Hunt is the founder, editor and publisher of Cheapskate Monthly. It is broken into categories such as Family, Food, Home, Travel, Auto and Money. Easy to read, understand and use; the tips will leave you with your mouth wide open while gasping, "What a great idea!"

Another source of my tips and cheap substitutions is the All You Magazine from Walmart. I refuse to pay the counter price, so last year I found a years subscription for $2 - for the whole year!! Not only it is chocked full of great articles, awesome tips and recipes, it has a clothing section sporting the latest trends and anywhere from $50-$100 in coupons!

Without turning this blog into a book, I will mention just a few of my secrets :)

* Instead of buying dishwashing detergent at $1.78 per 20 oz, make up your own with 1 cup Borax, 1 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup kosher salt. This only cost .81 per 20 oz

* Best way to remove baked-on bits of food from your glass pans? A rolled up ball of tin foil (can even be a used piece of tin foil - go green all the way!)

* Shave your legs, ladies, with hair conditioner that you probably already have and save $4 from not buying shaving cream

* Save all the bones from a roasted chicken. Please them in a pot of water with a bay leaf, a sliced onion, celery and carrot to make awesome chicken stock. Freezes well too!

* Your recipe calls for white wine and you don't have any? Use apple juice

* Don't buy expensive buttermilk that you will only use one cup of for that special recipe. One cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar will do the trick (let stand for 10 minutes)

* No molasses? Use honey (it's better for you anyways!)

* When you find summer fruit at an awesome price (like .88 for grapes), buy 5 lbs or more. Once they are cleaned, freeze them in pint size baggies for fruit all year round. I do this with bananas, strawberries, blueberries and grapes. Great for smoothies too!

Oh, how I could go on and on and on! Saving money, being frugal, finding better ways, refusing to let the retail industry steal my money...so many goals!

Treat yourself today, do your family a favor and go buy this book! Keep it right by the Bible and watch your daily life bring joy and satisfaction! Love you all :)

Where is Your Will Power?

2010-10-22T09:38:00.001-07:00

I have always said, "I don't have ANY will power!" Which is why I try not to buy cookies, candy or unhealthy snacks. Not only do I not want my children to eat this stuff, but if it is here, I will eat it myself!

I hate this about me. I wish I had more self-control. I'm always trying to work on "something" but self-control in this area is not what I have ever desired to work on.

Then something just snapped in me.

Have you ever had that happen? You don't really know where it comes from or how it happened or what was said, but all of the sudden you just wake up one day and KNOW that you need to make a change and today is the day!

That is exactly what happened to me four weeks ago. Little by little I have put on a few pounds and then a few more pounds over the last 5-6 years. Then I gained a little more extra this summer with all my kidney stone issues. I wasn't happy with my body and nothing fit. I have never dieted a day in my life, so this was all new to me. But I did it!

Along with some other minor adjustments, I decided to cut out all sugar and carbs. Boy was I in for a rude awakening! I ate more sugar than I realized (including honey) and the carbs...well that was just ridiculous! Now, I eliminated rice, potatoes, bread, crackers, chips, pretzels, corn products, tortillas, and the list goes on and on.

I am here to say that I am VERY happy with the results! I've lost what wanted to along with an 8" total loss around different body parts.

Although I haven't looked like this for a long time, I thought it would be hilarious to post a picture of me 14 years ago!It looks worse than it is since I just had my baby girl, but it amazes me how your body can go through so many transformations!

Hold onto your belt buckle, because that's not all I wanted to say! This was more than just a diet for me. This was Character Training Boot Camp. I discovered that I DO have self-control...I just never utilized it before! It is within me but it was buried so deep that I thought it never existed. Although I'm pleased with how my clothes fit now, more importantly, I'm pleased that the Lord found a unique way to prune me a little bit further. He's just so cleaver :)

Here's a better picture of me with my mom taken just a few weeks ago. I think I like this 'me' better!Denying ourselves. It's not something we typically discuss with our friends. Can't say I've ever heard a sermon on it. But it does build character and shapes us into stronger, more determined people - it's a great life lesson for you and your children.

I think I'll look for something else to deny myself of just to see what the Lord has in store for me!

Sour Cream Coffee Cake

2010-10-14T04:35:00.000-07:00

Next to apple pie, this is probably one of my favorite recipes to make and take to special events or while hosting a party in my home. It's very simple and although it's extremely unhealthy, it's so good for the soul while you are eating it!!

2 cups flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1 cup sugar
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
8 ounces sour cream (1 cup)

Topping:
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Into a medium bowl, sift together flour, salt, baking soda and baking powder.
In another mixing bowl cream together butter with sugar until fluffy and light; add egg and vanilla and mix well. Add half of the dry ingredients, mixing just until flour is blended. Blend in sour cream then stir in remaining dry ingredients.

Spread half of batter lightly into a greased 9 x 13 pan. Sprinkle half of topping and spread with remaining batter. Sprinkle with remaining topping. Bake at 325 for 40 to 45 minutes.

Enjoy and then make sure you fast the next day :)

Thank You for The Change, Lord!

2010-09-26T14:53:00.000-07:00

I have finally escaped from my hole. I truly cannot believe that I was there that long and how thick my walls were that I so earnestly built.

I know that I did what was best for my family and me at the time but enough is enough.

I need people back in my life.

My life was completely different when I first started home schooling 11 years ago. With a first grader and two babies demanding my attention and a husband who was constantly traveling, attending a mom's night out, home school meeting or even a social gathering was completely out of the question. To add to my situation, I was blessed with two deaf children. I quickly discovered that I was the only home school mom in this situation, so obviously no one understood my life or my daily struggles, right? On a small and manageable scale, resentment and bitterness slowly crept in. In addition to my ungodly mindset, the close friends that I had began to move away.

The result? 100% seclusion. After all...what could they offer me? Without any prayerful consideration, I have said no to teaching Sunday School, being the coordinator of our girls group at church, joining the worship team, being the home school leader, leading the greeters at church, taking over Prayer for Cops Ministry, participating in any home school field trip, etc., etc. My family was top priority and they needed me. It has taken me years, but I have learned that withdrawing from everything was not the right way to handle my life.

Fast forward from 1999 to 2010. "You've come a long way, baby!" doesn't even come close to explaining what has happened to me the last few months. I've been deeply humbled and have successfully climbed out of my hole. It all started with a Power Up Worship service at our church. I was the first one in line to receive a special touch from the Lord, yet He did more than just touch me.

The two ladies in charge began to explain my life to me - in great detail. Funny thing is, I had never shared even a sentence with them about my struggles from the past 10 years. It was truly a Divine appointment from the Lord. I wept as the Lord said, "Enough is enough. You think you are trapped in a room with no door and are completely alone. Not only is there a door - I have opened it for you. It is time to walk through. You have too much to offer and I have blessed you..." I stayed about an hour later than anyone else receiving more prayer and expelling more tears. I was long overdue for a meeting with God.

He cared enough about me to not only show up to this worship service but to speak to me specifically. W O W!!

I had an old friend visit our church recently. She pulled me aside and asked what in the world happened to me! A little flabbergasted, I questioned her as to her meaning. She said, "You're different. You look peaceful and free. I've never seen you worship like that before. Obviously the Lord has done something in your life - please tell me what it is!"

Tis true!! I HAVE been set free! I found flexibility five years ago. Things aren't so black and white. I'm learning more each day to let God control my activities and to do my daily routines with love. I'm investing more into the character of my children. I am back on the worship team after a six year sabbatical. I have joined the board with my Home Educators Group AND I attend just about every meeting there is! Back to school picnic, Newcomers Tea, Moms Night Out and every training and encouraging seminar possible!

Why? Because I need it and so do my children. They need a plethora of friends and I need to be encouraged daily by those who continue to do the difficult task God has called them to do - parenting and educating.

I'm so excited! I love failing forward and can't wait to see what else God has in store for me and my family.

My challenge to you...be more flexible than I was. Adopt a godly mandate and rely on it daily. Allow the Lord to humble you and embrace the friends He has placed in your life. Weather you home school or not, listening to the Lord's prompting is something that you will never regret. God made you on purpose for a purpose and to sit in a hole is not it!

Thank God almighty I'm free at last :)

Home Made Noodles

2010-09-24T05:02:00.000-07:00

I thought it was high-time I shared my moms famous home made noodle recipe. I've had so many friends ask in wonder..."You can make noodles? I thought you only bought them at a store!!" Not only can you make noodles - they are so easy that anyone can!

Homemade Noodles

1 beaten egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 cup white unbleached flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour

Combine all ingredients and stir with a fork until stiff dough forms. Flour the counter and roll dough very thin (you'll have to use some muscles here!) We like thin noodles, but if you want them more like dumplings, then keep them thicker. Let stand for about 20 minutes. With a dull knife, slice the dough into strips and let dry for a minimum of two hours or as long as all day. As they dry, the noodles will begin to curl up.Once the noodles are dry, break them up and throw them into a pot of boiling water to cook for about 10 minutes.

My favorite recipe is just to make chicken noodle soup. So, I toss these noodles into a pot of chicken stock with pieces of chicken. Add some salt, pepper and fresh garlic with a tad of flour to thicken the broth. Eat it in a bowl as soup or on a plate with some green beans and mashed potatoes for a meal that will leave you feeling like a bit of Heaven just visited you!

Happy eating!
Rhonda

It Was a God Day!

2010-09-08T11:34:00.000-07:00

The prompting began last night and grew in intensity during a home school question-n-answer meeting I had attended. The Lord confirmed it in my spirit during my morning devotions as to what my day was to consist of.

It was going to be an unusual day. One like I have never had before in my 12 years of educating my children at home. So, what did the Lord speak to my heart about?

To put all the educational books away -- GASP!

Seriously?? No math, grammar or spelling? But they must practice typing everyday and what about dictation and science? It was true...The Lord wanted the day completely devoted to Him. He wanted me to do nothing except teach from His word, work on character traits and talk about serious, heart-felt issues like modesty, diligence, guarding your heart, and their moral values.

I opened my Bible and guess where the Lord led me? Galatians 5:19-23. I won't quote the entire text here, but it starts with, "When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, your lives will produce these evil results...but when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, He will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.. Here this is no conflict with the law."

Thus the beginning of our day was spent on the couch for 35 minutes talking about these scripture verses and how important they are to our lives - all before breakfast was even consumed.

With great anticipation, I explained to the kids what the Lord had told me. Their eyes were bulging with shock trying to understand exactly what this meant for them - the pupil...

Well, the day is over now and I will have to say that it was probably the most rewarding day we have ever had. As I put my daughter to bed, she wanted to know if we could have a "God Day" every week! So you want to know what our day looked like? I thought you'd never ask :)Once their chores were finished, we read the Bible for about 40 minutes. Then I started drilling them on some fun Bible Quiz Flashcards. We went to the bookshelves and pulled out some books we had about God or moral issues. We read I Wonder How God Hears Me and a few stories from Hinds' Feet on High Places (arranged for children).Right before lunch I brought out my three volume set of Read Aloud Bible Stories from the Moody Bible Institute that I used to read to them when they were little. They were once again captivated by the pictures just as they were at such a young, tender age. We decided to pick a Bible character that they remembered or found interesting. After reading about them, they let the artist within them come alive on paper! I had them mesmerized by my personal testimonies and enthralled with each true-to-life story that was told. We ate lunch on the floor while watching a missionary video called Stephen's Test of Faith.

Next was the Clarksons book called "Our 24 Family Ways". I have had this for years but with so many other books, it just wasn't being used. Today it happily made its appearance. It completely amazed me how one topic can bring about so many questions and the different rabbit trails you can venture on. I actually took notes as to what we talked about so that I could relay everything to daddy.

The spectrum of discussions? Addictions, regret, denying yourself, modesty, protecting your heart, your moral warehouse, movie and book selections, peer pressure, leading instead of following, purity, inappropriate billboards and public displays at the mall, no guarantee of tomorrow and God's commands and promises. Then we began our unit study on character traits. I will write a separate blog about this awesome book, but it is called "What Every Child Should Know Along the Way".

The best topic was explaining what we believe as a believer in Christ and why we believe what we believe. We actually ran out of time, but will write out our beliefs on paper tomorrow.

The end results were truly amazing. Inspired by God's and led by God. It's incredible how well your day can go when God is in control.

Are we behind in our school work and schedule? What schedule? (Haha!) We made an immense amount of progress today. I actually feel we are further ahead mentally and spiritually than if we had our noses in the books.

Thanks God...for caring, for the gentle nudge, for giving me the right words, for my children's open hearts and minds and for being such a God of order.

Blessings,
Rhonda

Treasures from the Past

2010-09-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

During my moms visit a few weeks ago, she brought me a boat-load of stuff wanting to pass it along to the next generation. I just had to share three of the treasures that have special meaning to me and my family. This was my moms rocking chair that was given to her as a toddler for Christmas. She saw it in the Sears Catalog and asked her daddy to get it for her. My moms family was extremely poor, so a purchase of this amount was out of the question. The little bit of money that they had was set aside to replace the ripped black tar paper that covered the walls before the siding could be put on. Winter was approaching so to keep the tiny house warm, this was a necessity. However, against my grandmother's wishes, grandpa took the money and bought the chair for his baby girl...my mom said it was a very cold winter! The chair has been untouched with the original appliques still on it. We now have it in our office and sit in it daily (well, at least those of us who can 'fit'!)

This toy box was also my mom's given to her when she was about five. I would like to share the unusual history with you...my mom had an uncle who worked in a wood shop as a casket maker. Since he knew that my moms family didn't have any money to speak of, he took the basic construction of a baby casket and created this toy box for her. It has a small removable shelf inside, a chain to keep the lid in place, handles on the outside and flower appliques on the top and sides. My mom didn't come to learn the real story about this toy box until she was a grown adult. It will now adorn Adam's room at the foot of his bed.

This last picture is also very special to me. My grandpa made this when he was in his 80's. He was quite an extraordinary and talented man - true to the character traits that his generation possessed. With only a 6th grade education, he became a Union Painter and Refinisher by trade. He was still climbing 20 foot ladders to fix his roof at 92 years old and playing 9 holes of golf at age 93. He didn't even stop driving until he was 97! Grandpa always enjoyed working with his hands and making things out of wood. In his early 20's, he began making grandma little keepsake boxes with inlaid wood. He actually cut the wood pieces out by hand, gluing them together to make the boxes. Sometime in his 80's, grandpa decided to create one of his last projects. He chose to make five inlaid wood tables - one for each of his children. My mom has now passed her table along to me. What a treasure to have! My precious grandfather went to be with the Lord at an incredible age of 100 years young! This is very significant since grandpa told people for years that he would live to be 100; for some reason this was very important to him. The Lord granted his wish...he passed away at 100 and two months old!

Thanks mom - I love having history in my home!

Blessings,
Rhonda

What Do You Do?

2010-09-04T19:00:00.001-07:00

Completely unaware. I wish I had known.

When I started bearing children 17 years ago, I had no idea it would feel this way. I'm not sure I would have changed my mind on the desire to fill my home with little people that share my last name, but a few clues along the way might have helped my mindset.

I hate being clueless. I don't consider myself a control-freak but I really would have liked a little more preparation than I received.

I'm sure you feel this way as well. I know you'll stand and shout 'Amen' when you're finished reading this.

I just never knew my heart would ache so badly when my children are hurting.

My precious little ones aren't so little any more. At a ripe age of 12, almost 14 and 17, they feel things more deeply than ever before. Disagreements with a friend cut to the core. Feeling left out and abandoned bring them tears that stain their pillowcases. Other children who do not understand their disability and stare, cause resentment in their minds wondering why they aren't 'normal'. Sinful actions which result in painful punishments bring remorse - something they are not used to feeling. Special relationships gone sour leave them confused, rejected and overwhelmed. Add a high dose of testosterone and puberty changes and I will show you a household with emotions that run at a new level - weekly!

What does that mean for mom and dad - where do we fit in this whole growing up picture?

It means that we hurt with them. We cry when they cry and get angry when they are. I just never realized how badly my heart would hurt - on their behalf. It actually boggles my mind to know that we have the ability to have such compassion for another soul. Of course, it only makes sense.

Jesus did.

And we are created in His own image. So what do we do now?

Pray. Pray some more. Continue praying. Pray without ceasing.

Pray that they maintain a gentle spirit with a compassionate heart. Pray that the Lord guides them through the present turmoil and each event in their future. Pray that the Lord makes His voice known to them so that they can hear it over the massive worldly white noise. Pray that God will heal their hurting hearts and bring peace to their minds.

I really don't want to hurt like this anymore...but neither do my children. I have no intentions of allowing them to ever go through the hurtful times in their lives alone, so together we will stand strong. Together we will stay united. Together we will seek God's will and guidance while pointing the children back to the cross.Jesus understands our hurts. He knows exactly how we feel. Just as we will never emotionally abandon our children, God has promised to never leave us.

After all - Jesus wept too.

Blessings,
Rhonda

An Awesome Reminder

2010-09-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of cleaning our hard drive and found this short report that my eldest wrote as a writing assignment a few years back. Considering the topic is timeless, I thought I would share his thoughts. Even coming from such a young heart (I think he was 14 or 15 at the time), I couldn't have said it better myself :)

The Fruits of the Spirit are very important to a Christians life. They help us act like we should and follow God and his word better. I believe these ideas can be used for anyone weather you believe in God or not.

God will see your heart and know if you are doing it 'just to do it' or if you are doing it with your whole heart. The one true God blesses anyone who goes after Him with the right motive. No one can fool God and no one can ever hope to hide anything from Him. He is a God who knows all things.

God will bless your life if you have the Fruits of the Spirit in your heart and you prove that they are in your heart by your actions. Jesus wants us to be more and more like Him and this is just one of the many steps it takes to get there. Pray that God will show you things in your life that does not line up with the Fruits of the Spirit and then change it.

Don't wait for a chance later in life - change it now.

The Fruits of the Spirit will bless you and those people around you.

Thanks for the reminder, Kyle...love you!

Coupon Codes

2010-08-29T19:03:00.000-07:00

I came across these coupon code abbreviations and thought I would post them as a reminder.

When searching online for coupons it is almost imperative to know the coupon lingo/abbreviations. If you have any questions regarding these abbreviations or if I left one out that you know about, leave a comment below this post and let me know!

$1/1= $1.00 off 1 product

$1/2= $1.00 off 2 products

BOGO= Buy One Get One

ECB= Extra Care Bucks (at CVS)

EXP= Expires

GC= Gift Card

GM= General Mills Coupon Insert

MIR= Mail In Rebate

OOP= Out Of Pocket

P&G= Proctor and Gamble Coupon Insert

RP= Redplum Coupon Insert

RR= Register Reward (at Walgreens)

SS= Smart Source Coupon Insert

WAGS= Walgreens

WYB= When You Buy

YMMV= Your Mileage/Manager May Vary (this means that it might work at one store and not another)

Hopefully this helps!

Cha-Ching!

2010-08-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

Here is proof in the pudding!

I sure didn't wait long once my coupon sabbatical was over. The very next day I was perusing the cart specials at Crest and came across these flatbread crackers for 50 cents each.

Think I can't beat that? Each one of the boxes had peelies (coupon stickers) for $1 off! So, I bought every box for the price of tax only!

Of course, my picture would have been more impressive if it had ALL the boxes here - I have already given away 6 of them!

Life is too fun - especially when it involves food :)

Crisscross Apple Crowns

2010-08-24T17:29:00.001-07:00

Not only do we love every kind of apple dessert in our family, but if they receive an "A" for presentation, then the recipe is a keeper!

These are just basically mini apple pies, but much cuter!

3 Granny Smith apples, cored and cut
3 T of honey
2 T flour
2-4 t cinnamon (we like a lot of cinnamon!)
dash of salt
1 package large refrigerated biscuits
2 t melted butter

Mix the first 5 ingredients in a bowl and set aside. Roll each biscuit out to approximately a 5" circle. Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of apple mixture onto the flattened biscuit. Pull up sides and pinch edges to seal. Place seam side down in an ungreased muffin tin. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with more cinnamon (and a smidgen of sugar if you must). Cut an "X" on the top and then bake for 18-22 minutes at 350 degrees. Makes 8 "crowns".

Of course, we had to serve them with Vanilla Bean ice cream, which sort of made them only halfway healthy (is there such a thing?)

I will have to say that the next time I make these, I will make my own healthy whole-wheat pie dough. The biscuits were too doughy for me and too thick at the seam. My family happens to disagree with me, so I'll just make the change and see if they notice the next time!

Happy baking my friends!

Which One Are You?

2010-08-19T15:15:00.000-07:00

This was passed onto us at the Home School Leadership Retreat. I felt it was worth re-typing and posting for all to read:

A daughter cried out in despair to her father about the difficulties of her life. She did not know how she could continue, and wanted to give up. It seemed that just as one problem was resolved, a new one surfaced to replace it.

Her father took her to the kitchen. He filled three pots with water and placed each one over high heat. After the water came to a boil, he placed fresh carrots in one, a few eggs in the second, and a tea bag in the third. He sat wordlessly for about 20 minutes. Then he removed the carrots, the eggs, and the tea to three bowls and turned to ask her, "Sweetheart, what do you see?"

"Carrots, eggs, and tea," she replied. He brought her closer and had her examine each item. She noticed that the carrots had become soft. When she broke an eggshell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, she sipped the tea and smiled as she inhaled its sweet aroma. "What does this mean?" she asked.

He explained that each of them had faced the same adversity - the boiling water - but each had reacted differently. The carrot went into the circumstances of the water strong, firm and unrelenting. But after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak.

The egg had been fragile; its thin outer shell had protected the liquid interior. But after sitting in the boiling water, the inside had become hardened.

However, the tea leaves were unique. After 20 minutes in the water, they had changed the water - they had flavored their surroundings and created a pleasant fragrance. In fact, it took the hot water to bring out the best in the tea leaves.

He asked her, "When the heat is turned up in the circumstances of your life, which are you? A carrot that appears tough, but with pain and adversity loses its vitality and strength? An egg, which starts off with a malleable heart, but becomes unyielding and hardened, even though the appearance stays the same? Or a tea bag, which brings a pleasant aroma and flavors the circumstances for the better when the heat is on?"

I want to be a tea bag.

California Fun!

2010-08-08T12:52:00.000-07:00

Several people have been asking about our vacation out west, so I thought I'd post a few pictures about our fast and furious 6-day vacation to California. It was absolutely amazing...but we were wiped out!

It helped tremendously that my hubby is a native of the LA area. I could never drive out there - those people are completely crazy behind the wheel!

Here are some pictures and a quick outline of our Cali trip. We stayed in Buena Park which was very convenient to hit Knotts Berry Farm the very next day - only one mile awayThe Queen Mary in Long Beach was incredible - the size, the beauty and the history. Spent 6 hours touring the boat and having lunch at one of the 'fine' dining rooms!The Santa Monica Pier was beautiful and we certainly enjoyed the 70 degree weather!The day trip to Catalina Island was spectacularthe boat ride,the shops, the food, our bus tour and the sub ride were memory-making events for the entire family!We ended our vacation by spending a day in Hollywood and then visiting daddy's stomping grounds - which was quite delightful in itself!

Wouldn't EVER want to live there but it sure was fun visiting - something the kids will never forget. Thanks for letting me share our memories :)

A Tribute to My Friend

2010-07-30T05:58:00.000-07:00

BFF!

I hear this daily...everyone says it about every friend they have! It's an over-used acronym that is now printed on t-shirts, hats, bookmarks and even key chains! However, if you truly have one of these "best friends forever" then you know how precious that person can be to you.

I happen to have one.

It's quite rare to meet this special person. The perennial in your life. Someone who will change you forever, always stand by your side, give you un-biased advice and equally share personal, never-to-be-repeated stories. Next to your marriage partner, they become your soul-mate...blood sisters, so to speak. You finish each others sentences. Talk at the same time saying the same time and then giggle like high school kids. You order the same pizza - with all the unusual ingredients that no one else will eat! You go through the same things with your kids even when you live hours apart and didn't even talk about the situations! You order the same books and never know it until you try to recommend it to each other. You both start a blog but didn't know the other one did and then one day blog about the same topic without conversing about it first!

No matter how long it has been since you have seen or talked with each other, you always pick up as though you just spoke for two hours the day before. You cry together - over silly things and serious things. You laugh till you can't even be understood on the other end of the phone.

The best part of all...her family comes to live with you for 5 weeks making it 10 people in your household and yet you get mad when they leave because they have a home to return to! It was nearly the best 5 weeks of your life - even with 20 shoes in the laundry room at any given time!!

In case you haven't gathered it by now, I am personally talking about a very special person in my life. I have even more respect and admiration for her now. She is on the journey of her life - one that will not only change her physical appearance, but her outlook on life, her activities with her family and overall improved health to enjoy her precious family.

My BFF? Denice Erway.

We met the first Sunday I attended church 13 years ago and were instantly bonded at the heart and hip. My friend is on a weight-loss journey with more determination than I have seen in anyone. She has decided to daily blog about her experiences - the successes and the disappointments. I implore you to follow her at www.deniceerway.com to share in her triumphs and possibly pass along a word of encouragement as she blogs about this long and sometimes slow process.

She has a heart of gold - loves the Lord and her family with extreme passion and is the best support group (all by herself) that I have ever found!

I hope you enjoy reading my bff's blog and can get a small taste as to why I am so blessed that the Lord sent her my way 13 years ago.

You are the bomb, Denice, and I love you dearly!

Banana-Sour Cream Cake

2010-07-25T13:57:00.000-07:00

I found this in an old recipe book yesterday and immediately felt this inner yearning to gain some weight!! I just knew I had to make it for cell groups tonight. It is about as unhealthy as they come, but was so much fun to make! (not typical for a recipe like this to don my kitchen counter!)1 pkg yellow cake mix
3 eggs
1 cup mashed rip bananas (about 3)
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup oil
8 oz cream cheese
1 stick softened butter
16 oz (about 4 cups) powdered sugar
1 cup finely chopped walnut pieces

Beat cake mix, eggs, bananas, sour cream and oil with a mixer on low until moistened. Beat on medium for 2 minutes. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 pan and bake at 350 for 35 minutes. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter with mixer on medium till blended. Gradually add sugar till creamy.

Remove cake from pan and carefully cut cake crosswise in half. Place 1 cake half, top-side down, on plate. Spread top with frosting. Top with remaining cake and frost top and sides. Press nuts onto sides and a few on top for looks.

Hope you have other desserts as well, because this will not last long!

Southern Feather Rolls - Bread Machine

2010-07-24T06:28:00.000-07:00

Doesn't the title just grab you??

These rolls will make you wanna slap your momma!! (Thank you, Tim Hawkins for making me laugh every time I hear you say this!)

I have adjusted the recipe to make it healthier - but I will warn you...your family will beg you -- no, FORCE you, to make these weekly!

1 egg
2 T water
1/4 cup milk
2 T butter
2 T honey
1 tsp salt
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup unbleached white flour
1-1/2 tsp yeast

Just dump into your bread machine pan and set for dough stage. When the dough is ready, gently knead it to press the air out. Slightly flour your hands and make 12-18 balls (depends on how big you want them).

You can put these in a muffin pan or just a 9 x 12 pan. Cover and place in a warm area to rise for 40-50 minutes. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.

I just made these last week and used all water since I had no milk - couldn't taste a difference at all.

Now - stand back and watch the fighting over the biggest roll begin! May the quickest person gloat and smile :)

True Friends

2010-07-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

Acquaintances. Casual friends. Game-playing friends. Dinner friends. School friends. Church friends. Facebook friends. Blogging friends. Good friends. Best friends for life.

There are many different categories to place those people in your life that have a kind word to say to you once in a blue moon or those that will go to the ends of the earth for you without ever batting an eyelash.

I laugh every time I see someone on Facebook that has 800 or more friends. Do they really know each and every one of those people? Will they ever make contact with them again on Facebook after the friend request has been sent? Will they make an effort to write on each person's wall at least once a month or is it just a numbers game?

We all want friends - and lots of them, but it takes a person going through a rough patch in their life to find out who their true friends are. It's not just a cliche' - it's truth...100%.

Much to my joy, I have had the privilege of experiencing this in my personal life. I have several really close friends that I have known for years - perennials in my life. But I didn't realize the volume of people that actually cared about me (and showed it) until my kidney stone episodes.

Other than delivering three children cesarean, I have been extremely healthy my entire life - no broken bones, no stitches (until this Mother's Day-sniff, sniff), no health issues, no physical problems and no overnight hospital stays.

When these stones made their ugly appearance in my life, it was so comforting to find out just how many friends I really did have. My husband and I had a difficult time keeping up with the emails, texts, phone calls and facebook messages! The concerns were valid and sincere and the bounty of prayers coming in were just enormous!

It felt good...people really do care.

I am still smiling about my Sunday happenings. I enjoyed being there since I had been absent for three weeks; however, I couldn't get anywhere. I was stopped by people swarming around me every 15 feet! The questions, the concern, the smiles, the gentle touch on the shoulder and the warm hugs. I couldn't believe it - I truly had no idea I had that many friends.

I finally walked into service 15 minutes late and just stood there laughing (all by myself!) I was late because people cared. God placed me on their hearts and they needed a reassurance as to my good health.

I was late because God loves me!

So, to all my friends in every aspect of my life and in every state I've ever lived...thank you. Thank you for your sweet comments, precious words, encouraging phone calls, uplifting emails and wonderful facebook messages! Most of all - thank you for interceding on my behalf to our Father.

Now it's your turn.

Have you told a friend today what a blessing they are?

Have you thanked God for bringing those friends into your life?

If you haven't, don't let today end without sharing an encouraging word or even just a smile. You truly have no idea how much that friend may need it.

Ahhh...The Good Life :)

2010-07-11T15:13:00.001-07:00

Since my last rant about my body falling apart, I thought I would at least post some pictures of the fun things we were able to squeeze in - around all my ER visits!

We decided to surprise the kids and take a mini-vacation to Dallas and San Antonio for three days. It was a fast but productive and actually educational trip. Our first stop was the American Girl Store. Such an exciting visit for the girls in your life! We were able to get Mia's ears pierced (which she had been wanting to do for years) and splurge on a new Zebra print outfit! She was one happy camper!We also visited the Lego store for my youngest and Guitar Center for my oldest but accidentally left the camera in the car for these stores :(

After a full day in Dallas, we drove to San Antonio to our rented condo. If you have never done this, you might want to consider condos or rented homes. I search for availability on www.vrbo.com (Vacation Rentals by Owner). For our family, this is the only way to go. We have our own little 'apartment', I cook breakfast, each child has their own room and it's usually cheaper than hotels - you just can't beat it) After some fresh banana muffins and yogurt, Sea World was our next destination. Though we didn't go on a lot of rides (didn't really want to get wet), we highly enjoyed each of the shows.The kids had never seen Shamu, so it was quite fascinating for them - even the 4-D Pirate Show was a hoot! I was actually quite glad that the park closed at 5 p.m. That gave us a chance to head back to the condo, shower and rest before eating at Saltgrass Steakhouse. For those of you that recommended it to me - thank you! The service was incredible and the food was amazing. Of course, our waiter was one-in-a-million, which always aids to the happiness of your visit!

After sleeping in a bit and watching a rerun of Andy Griffith, our last day was approaching quickly: The Alamo and the San Antonio River Walk. This was the educational part that I referred to earlier. I really expected to be in and out of the Alamo within 30 minutes. Much to my delight, history came alive to us as we walked the grounds, read the 5' illustrated banners and listened to a live narration of the entire events that transpired on the day in March of 1836. Two hours had passed before the cameras were finally put away. If you have never studied this event in history, I challenge you to do so. If you're ever in Texas, I implore you to stop and be awed by what the books don't tell you The San Antonio River Walk was just gorgeous.
We just HAD to eat dinner at Rainforest Cafe and just HAD to get the Sparkling Volcano Dessert! I can't extract the pictures from the camcorder for this one, but let's just say that you would have watched in horror as to how fast the five of us devoured that thing! Walking the streets of San Antonio was delightful, but our short vacation was coming to a halt.We ended our little get-a-way by blowing some money at the Tanger Outlet Malls - which is always fun no matter who you are!

Even though I had just had the lithotripsy done on my right kidney, we still decided to head out to Lake Texoma for the 4th of July weekend with two other families. I really was not looking forward to this trip because of my physical condition, the horrible rain storm that was headed our way and the awful memory of last years unfortunate events! However, it turned out to be the most relaxing weekend I have had in quite a while. It did rain the first night we were there but then it quickly headed out. What made it so special? I was able to recover, my family catered to me, the weather was gorgeous and my friend cooked for every lunch and dinner we had. What was I doing? Relaxing in a lawn chair while enjoying the sight of a happy family!I now have a refurbished body, a new mindset and the same wonderful family God blessed me with! He is SO good and faithful and His love endures forever!

Coupons and Freebies - Better Hurry!

2010-07-11T14:43:00.000-07:00

There are just SO many exciting offers going on lately (includes freebies) that I just had to write a quick blog about them. Here's a few that I have found out about:

Free Slurpee
Depending on where you live, July 11 is free Slurpee Day at 7-11 gas stations. Just stop by and ask if they are participating in the free program.

$10 off Coupon
"Like" Famous Footwear on Facebook and then print off a $10 off any purchase of $10 or more. Better hurry - it expires tomorrow, July 12. You can also use this online and I heard that free shipping is included!

50 prints for .50
Order your 4 x 6 prints online with Snapfish and receive 50 prints for only 50 pennies till July 18. Use coupon code JULY4PENNY at checkout! Great deal!!

25 Free Photo Cards
Until July 17, get 25 free 4 x 8 photo cards at SeeHere.com. Use promo "cards-36" at checkout.

Mimi's Cafe
Kids eat free at Mimi's every Sunday night in July with an adult meal

Abuelo's Crayons for Queso
School supply drive - bring in one of the following during the month of July and receive a complimentary appetizer or dessert:
16 count box of crayons
12 pack of pens or pencils
2 pkg of loose leaf notebook paper
2 spiral notebooks
1 box of Kleenex

I know there are a ton more offers out there, but these are the ones I knew about off hand and could type quickly! Now run an grab those freebies and enjoy life!

Coupon Sabbatical Is Over!

2010-07-08T09:37:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I actually did it!

I survived a self-inflicted three month coupon-crazin' sabbatical! It was well worth it as the break was much needed, but I am so happy to announce for all to hear that my 90-day, 12-step program is over!

Why did I decide to go on a coupon sabbatical after massively claiming this as my job and hobby for so many years? For several reasons...but mainly because my stockpile was taking over every square inch of cupboard and closet space I had and it truly was taking up time that I wanted free for the summer.

So, I quit gathering multiple coupons from all my neighbors and then spending hours sorting, stapling, cutting and filing them. My coupon friends who received the extras that I passed along weren't too happy with my decision, but somehow they survived as well! I was still cutting coupons but only from my one paper and only for my family.

I will have to admit that fear is now starting to grip my heart.

I actually went to bed last night with the most horrendous nightmares.

Would you believe that I dreamt that all coupons - and I mean ALL - were completely non-existent -- EXTINCT!!

Even though I may have just expressed a light amount of hyperbole, I am quite concerned about my stockpile - I only have 10 bottles of body wash and 12 bottles of hair spray/gel in my cabinet! AAGGGGHHHH!!!

Time to get back on the wagon and grab every freebie I can!

If you're wondering how I organize, cut and staple the coupons, here's a YouTube video explaining it:

Hope that helps solidify my coupon compulsiveness and maybe help you understand why I am the way I am - haha!

Just in case you're wondering - coupon cutting is definitely worth your time. The amount of money I save my family each year is incredible - thousands would be an understatement. The plethora of free items I grab is amazing. Best of all...I love to bless my friends weekly by passing along my free treasures to them!

Watch out Homeland...I'M B A C K!!!

I Want a Re-do!!

2010-07-08T07:54:00.000-07:00

Fasten your seat belts because I'm about ready to back up the dump truck and verbally unload!!

This was NOT the summer I had anticipated - not that I had any huge set-in-stone plans, but being sick half of the summer was truly NOT on the agenda! I was able to squeeze in three good weeks of summer enjoyment and then my body must have decided it was time to catch up for not being terribly sick for so many years. Unfortunately, it did it all within a one month span!

My first battle started with being unable to swallow without the food getting lodged right in the middle of my chest. This had actually been going on for about a year or so but very sporadically. I just assumed that I did not chew my food into small enough bites and was causing the issues myself. When it came to the point that I was unable to eat anything without having to force it back up, it was time for a doctor's appointment. I discovered I had esophageal stricture along with an esophagus ulcer. With a little bit of stretching on my esophagus and some meds for a month and I was able to gain those 8 pounds back in no time!

Onto the next trauma...if you read my Mother's Day post, you already know that my battle with the Big Blue Trash Can ended in a loosing streak for me! Since I had never had stitches, there was no better time than the present! If you haven't read that post, you need to - it will have you rolling with laughter (at my expense!)

Here is where I got my three weeks of summer fun in - parks, friends, swimming, shopping, late-night game playing, etc. I am VERY thankful for those beginning weeks. I think the rest and calm environment prepared my body for what was around the corner...

What I thought was a pulled back muscle from starting a new exercise class at the gym, turned out to be a lot more momentous. Five days later I am sitting at the ER with my children in tow. Don't you love it how the insurance companies dictate that an ER visit must be at least three hours in length??? My children were thrilled beyond belief to be in the waiting room for FOUR hours, having no idea what was wrong with me! The prognosis? A UTI, bladder infection and kidney infection.

Joy.

Four prescriptions and three days later, I'm back at the ER since I had very little signs of improvement along with a horrible head-to-toe rash. Now the doctor says my infections have cleared up but I have two kidneys full of stones along with two 7mm babies stuck in the ureter :( No wonder I was still in an immense amount of pain!

Two days later I'm had the famous lithotripsy procedure done to blast those suckers into smithereens. What about those two 7mm stones that were stuck, you ask? Had to pull those jagged things out...so unnatural!

The end? Not yet...I get to go back next week and have the left kidney lasered! They are NOT kidding when they say it is as painful (or more) than having a baby!

Okay...I feel much better! Just had to rant to 100 or so readers!

Since I really don't want to end on a 'down' note, let me say that even though I'd like to start this summer over, I do have a lot to be thankful for:

* I am alive!
* My children are healthy and were a tremendous blessing during all my events
* I am so thankful God gave me my husband - he is amazing!
* I am surrounded by a plethora of friends that came to my aid immediately
* My hubby has a great paying job with wonderful insurance!
* My prayer partners were at it hard and strong - and it was felt!
* Even though I was ill for lengthy periods of time, my children were still able to have fun and be with friends.
* My God NEVER left me and His Word remains the same

Bottom line - I am still a very blessed woman and since I have a personal relationship with the Lord, I believe that everything - yes, everything, happens for a reason. As a friend told me a few weeks ago, maybe God was doing a physical purging in my body preparing me for a spiritual purging. So, what are you up to now, God?

Anticipation awaits around the corner. Until then, I have my devotion in hand along with my 80 ounces of water, fiber-filled muffins and probiotics!

Thank you my friends, for all your prayers and helping with my kiddos. Thank you, Lord, for whatever you are doing in my life...I truly do welcome it!

Can't wait to see what the rest of July holds!

Brain-Dead Summer? Not Here!

2010-06-14T12:47:00.000-07:00

Remember my post a few weeks back about purposeful living? Well, I am determined to carry that forth into the summer months. In an effort to make sure that my children do not loose their eye sight glued to the PS3 or become vegetables flipping through approved movies and tv shows, I have devised an evil plan - all for their benefit, of course! This is a list that I typed up about five years ago and used successfully for several years. The last two summers were already consumed with massive vacations and other activities that a list wasn't needed. However, I have decided that an update is needed this year(except for my 17 year old - that might be overkill!) so that video games do not take control of the household.

If you decide to do the same, be creative with your list and ask the Lord to open your eyes to things that you wouldn't normally think about. This is especially good for younger children who still need direction and organization to their summer days. I believe you will find that it will bring peace and structure (yes, you can use those two words together in the same sentence!) to your lazy days while still allowing your kids to get in as many smiles as possible! My goal is always to diffuse the words, "I'm BORED!" Since I have never agreed with being the kids entertainment director, a list such as this puts the responsibility back on them to remind them of all the activities available. Posted on the refrigerator allows listless hands to quickly change directions!

Now that my children are older and past playing with pipe cleaners, here are some of the things that will/have appeared on our list: Swimming (as always!), making jewelry,drawing, putting together a bird house, babysitting, making something from Legos for a contest,participating in the Junior Farmers Market, bike/scooter riding, painting curb house numbers to make money,fishing, camping, going to the lake, learning to bake with momma,and plenty of park outings!As you can tell by the pictures, we have already accomplished quite a bit for only three weeks of summer behind us!

My challenge to you...without being a slave to the list, allow your children to expand their horizons and develop/increase their creative side. Above all - be carefree and flexible. Life is too short to have too many rules!

Flowers - God's Gift to Us!

2010-06-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

FLOWERS - I just love them! Actually, I never used to...too much work...too much money and just no desire to maintain them. But things have changed around here and in my heart. Now I just can't buy enough! I have spent the last few years buying distressed perennial flowers and have immensely enjoyed watching them grow back year after year.My cute little flower bed frogs...the gorgeous lilies that came back in triplet this year...three extra perennials planted this year...can't wait to see how they will look like next yearJust love my Mother's Day teapot on the porch!And of course, who can pass up good 'ole fashion petunias!

Though it's not huge or magazine quality by any means, I have found peace and fulfillment each morning as I sit on the porch and watch the butterflies enjoy each flower they approach. The morning is so still and untouched as the sun rises and the dew evaporates...hearing from the Lord is so much easier while basking in His beauty. I'm so thankful that He is a colorful and creative God!

Semi Healthy Apple Cookie Cobbler

2010-06-10T09:20:00.000-07:00

Okay - so it's not the healthiest apple cobbler, but it is so, so good! I haven't made this recipe in years (for obvious reasons), but since it popped out at me as I was flipping through my recipe binder, I knew it was time to revisit sugar land!

It originally called for 1 cup of brown sugar, but I changed it to 3/4 cup of honey (hence the term "semi-healthy!") Other than the top of being laden with processed cookie dough infiltrated with every chemical, sweetener and preservative known to man, it's very healthy!

6 cups apples - peeled, cored and sliced
3/4 cup of honey
2 T flour
1 t cinnamon (I use 2-3)
1/2 t allspice
2 T lemon juice
1 package refrigerated sugar cookie dough
2 T sugar
1 t cinnamon

Peel, core and slice apples. Add honey, flour, cinnamon, allspice and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples well and let set about 10 minutes. Spoon into a deep dish or 9 x 13 pan. Spoon cookie dough by scant teaspoons evenly over apples. Combine sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over cookie dough. Bake at 350 for 35-45 minutes.
Of course, we just HAD to top it off with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream so we could send ourselves into a sugar coma quicker than expected!

Whew...now we're set for our sugar quota for the month!

Happy eating!