AI Watch Party

Boo Mama and Shannon at Rocks and My Dryer were asked to write up AI summaries for Season 8 at Culture 11. Click here to read. It will entertain you, promise.

And if you have never read Boo Mama, you should especially if you are a southern girl with a love for fried foods. She was the first blog I started to follow when I first started blogging and one of the few that I have actually kept following the past 3 years.

Let me just say one more thing before I go, I love the new judge. I think she is a breath of fresh air and can hold her own. I can't wait to hear how she judges the final 12. I think she will do much better than the other chick who usually just repeats what Randy said or comments on how great and cute the contestants look that night.

"You're a star! And I love your hair-keep up the great work!" ~Your Friend Paula

Love That Alli Rogers

Have you heard of Alli Rogers? If not, she is a Christian artist that's music is classified as Folk music in my ITunes. I recently stumbled across this artist while on a search for new music.



It was love at first listen.



Let me share with you the lyrics to the song that touched me most (it sums up my feelings about the journey Jeff and I are on these days quite nicely)



the day of small things
I am afraid of beginning‘cause I don’t know how to end
But you told me that the mountain before us would become a plain in our eyes
So I won’t despise
I won’t despise the day
I won’t despise the day of small things


Even when you tell me…oh, even then I’m shaking
‘Cause I am afraid of believing
The plans that we make seem so big
But you’ve shown me that we’re never alone and your spirit will stay by our side

So I won’t despise
I won’t despise the day
I won’t despise the day of small things


To hear more of her music, click here. Let me know if you become a fan too or already are a fan of Alli Rogers. I know I am!

Sixteen Things

I am joining in the fun with Andrea and posting 16 things you may or may not know about me.


1. I can touch my nose with my tongue. I try not to show this talent anymore, although back in the day it was very entertaining.

2. I tried out for Texas Girls Choir in 3rd grade and made it to the last round but never went ahead with it. My parents didn't want me away from home and the yearly dues were very expensive. I don't really feel like I missed anything either.

3. I hate running but I am training for a 10K. Go figure

4. I am memorizing Psalms 37.

5. I hope to memorize 12 Psalms this year, one a month. I am praying that I can do this.

6. I am a creature of habit.

7. I don't like change yet I am praying for big changes right now. God be with me when those changes come. :)

8. I have been having dreams the past few weeks regarding my great grandmother, I miss her greatly.

9. I aspire to be like my great grandmother. She read her bible everyday, walked two miles before 7 am and came home to eat a big breakfast of eggs, sausage, biscuits and bacon. She lived to be 97 years old and was sharp as a take. It must have been the sausage or bacon.

10. I can still remember the table numbers of the restaurant that I worked at in college. Sometimes when I can't sleep I count the tables.

11. I now can only fall asleep with a sleep mask.

12. Every time I bake I have to scrub my kitchen when done. I am a messy baker.

13. I used to play the piano but I can only remember one song.

14. When we move, we are buying a piano first thing and I am going to try to reteach myself. I never thought I would say this but I miss it.

15. I like to clean because it relaxes me but I hate folding and putting away laundry. Despise it!

16. I am counting down until I leave on a little trip next weekend with a good friend. I really, really need a break from the real world. We are going to do nothing but veg out....can't wait!

This is my 600th Post...Oh My!

Last night I made cookies while Jeff was at work to surprise him.

Seeing as how the last time I made homemade chocolate chip cookies was when we were still newlyweds (5 years ago) he was very surprised. So surprised, in fact, that he woke me up at 6 this morning to tell me how happy he was that I made cookies. "You made homeade cookies? YUM!" (The fact that he said yum still makes me giggle)

I rolled over and went back to sleep, happy I made my husband happy.

Let me ask you, what is your husband's favorite thing you make or bake? And when was the last time that you surprised him with it? Come on ladies, tie on your aprons and get a cookin'.

Bless your husband today! :)

Edited to add: I make killer break and bake cookies but sometimes it's nice to kick it old school and make cookies the old fashioned way!

In The Kitchen: Tortilla Soup

Tortilla Soup, a favorite in our house. This is one of the soups that we used to feed our small group. It feeds up to 10 people so when I cook it for just the two of us, we have it for many nights. Not really the most healthy thing on the block but it is super yummy. And who doesn't love a recipe where you just open a can and toss it in?

1-Can of Rotel

2-Can of Cream of Chicken Soup

1-Can of Chicken Broth

1-Can of Fiesta Nacho Soup

2-Cans of Black Beans (drained)

2-Cans of Pinto Beans (drained)

1-Can of Fiesta Corn (drained)

1-8 oz package of pre-cooked chicken strips. Southwestern style preferred.

Mix all ingredients together in a crock pot and heat on low for approximately 90 minutes. Or the fast way, throw in a big ole pot and cook on high for 30 minutes, don't let it boil though

Serve with tortilla chips and grated cheese.

Huh...

I was going through my blog archives to see what word I chose for last year's one word choice.

I stumbled on this post where I talked about the things I wanted in a house.

Two things Jeff promised me when we bought a house:

1. A Red Door
2. A Portable Office in the Back

Guess what two things the new house has? That's right, a red door and a portable building in the back for my office. The portable building looks like a barn but is now painted blue, I bet you can't guess what color I plan to paint it?

That right, red. Like a barn

And since I am on strick orders not to post any pictures of the house or give away any other information on the house unil we move, you will just have to trust me on this.

I promise one day very soon, I will post pictures.

Oh and last year's word was authentic.

One Little Word 2009

Every year Ali Edward's chooses a word that she and her family will focus on during the year. I love this and so I have chosen to join in again this year.

This year my word is delight.

What does it mean to delight? And how does this to apply to my everyday life?

Delight
Main Entry: 1de·light
Pronunciation: \di-ˈlīt, dē-\
Function: noun
Date: 13th century
1: a high degree of gratification : joy ; also : extreme satisfaction
2: something that gives great pleasure
3archaic : the power of affording pleasure

One of my goals for this year is to memorize more scripture. I found one verse constantly coming into my daily life, Psalms 37. As I started to look at Psalms 37, one word seemed to stand out. That word was Delight.

Two key verses I have tried to apply to my life this past year.

1. Psalms 37: 4

"Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart's desires."

2. Psalms 37: 23

"The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives."

In 2009, I am choosing to delight in the Lord. I believe that by doing this I will also be more trusting of where He is leading us. And by knowing that God is leading, I will gratified, filled with joy and at peace.

My goals for 2009 are simple, I want to delight in the everyday joys of life.

Delight in God and His plans for us.

Delight in the blessings He is sending to us on a daily basis.

Delight in our story being written in every single moment of our lives.

2008- Our Year In Pictures

Movies

(Edited to add: Click on the picture above and hit play next to the word slideshow to see the video)

This video started out as a simple project and quickly turned into a two day ordeal. The pictures became a bit grainy after I posted it to google albums but it will do. Even though it took longer than I hoped, it was a fun way to look back on 2008.

I think Jack Johnson's words, "It's always better when were together" could be Jeff and my theme song for this year. Even though this year was full of ups and downs, we found great joy in being together. I am thankful that God has brought us to the same page. I know that many of the things we had to go through this past year served to unify us and strengthen our marriage. This past year we had many ministry opportunities together. I will never forget the joy that came the day Jeff and I prayed with Maudie to become a believer. What a joy it was to share in that moment together! I am also thankful for Jeff's words of encouragement when month after month nothing was happening. I had a friend ask me one time how I was able to be joyful in the waiting. I quickly answered, Jeff. Apart from my prayer time with God, Jeff has been my rock and constant encourager. He is a blessing! I am thankful for this past year that has brought us closer together.

I am also thankful for the time I have spent in the Word this past year. I am happy to report that I actually finished the Daily Chronological Bible. I encourage each and everyone of you to do something like this in 2009. What a blessing it has been to realize that no matter where I was in the Bible, God was able to use those scriptures to touch my heart. Even when I was reading Numbers and The Chronicles.


2009 goals to be posted soon, along with my word that I am going to cultivate in my life. But I must hurry on because I have a day off with my husband and want to soak up the downtime with him.

Happy New Year!

Being With The Kids On Christmas Day

I loved Christmas this year because I was able to spend quality time with all FIVE of my nieces and nephewS. Uncle Jeff and I were talking the next day about how everyone of the kids has a unique personality. What a joy to watch them grow and change over the years.

One of the things Jeff and I love, is our time with the kids. It is what has kept us going this past two years as we have continued to trust God's timing for positive plus sign. I won't lie, the last few weeks have been the hardest yet but we aren't ready to give up either. Nor do we allow Satan to steal our joy, although I feel like he has been working overtime on me the past few days....cried all the way home the other night, scared Jeff to death. God bless him for not asking me to "talk it out" since it was one of those times that my tears really could not be explained but I couldn't stop them from falling either.

God continues to bless me through His word. I read in 1 John 5: 14-15 on Christmas day it says, "And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for." This was soothing words to my restless spirit. As hard as it can be sometimes, I am trusting that He does hear our prayers and will answer us.

A big thanks to everyone of you who have prayed for us this past year. We truly are blessed to be surrounded by a community of prayer warriors. No words can express the gratitude in my hearts for each one of you. God is faithful. God's word is true. God is alive and active in each one of our lives.

Merry Christmas!

I want to wish each and everyone of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

I also would like to apologize yet again to the many friends and family members who did not receive a card this year. I miscalculated and by the time I realized it I said, "Oh well, screw it." Which means the last 15 address stickers were left without cards. I know I could have ordered more and should have but things have been very busy the last few weeks. You know buying a house, welcoming a nephew and such.

Oh and unfortunately it looks like we aren't moving until February. Agh!!! I am chanting this verse and spending much of my free time making a decorating plan and budget. I guess you can say it is the interior designer/spreadsheet lover in me. I know, I know I need help.

Again have a merry Christmas and don't forget to take time to worship Him.

See you after the holidays!

Elijah's 3rd Birthday

I finally got my cord for my camera and will now be playing catch up with the pictures. We had a family party at Chuckie Cheese for Elijah's 3rd birthday. He had a blast running around playing the games, eating the cake and opening his presents.

It's hard to believe that he is 3! Seems like yesterday we were welcoming the little one into the world. Time flies when you are having fun!

Happy Birthday Eli! May you grow in wisdom and stature and follow the plans that God has for you.

Aunt Sue Sue loves you to pieces!

Thanks Lord, I Needed That

I won't go into the details of all that is going on this side of the screen these days. I will say though, that God is faithful and constantly encouraging me through His word, my friends, family, Jeff and even the blogging land.

Last night I had a moment where I layed it all out before the Lord. Let's just say I needed Him to calm a few fears of where God is leading us. Everything I have prayed for has happened except one thing. And well that one thing has been the hardest to let go and trust God.

Through His word, God continues to show me that He is faithful and that He hears my prayers.

For example last night, I read in Psalms 17 that God will answer me and hear my prayers. I also read in Psalms 21 about God's strength and His joy to bless those who believe in Him. Don't get me wrong, I know I am blessed. I have a wonderful husband who is willing to walk this path with me and who keeps me laughing even when the days seem dark. I am blessed with a job that allows me to stay at home and every once in awhile allows me to dapple in the interior design side of the business. I am blessed with a wonderful support system, friends who out of the blue will call and say "I prayed for you today." And I am blessed to be just a few weeks away from moving to a house that only the Lord could have orchestrated. Even though I know I am blessed I am still human with real longings and desires.

I am really getting off the point of the post.

The point is this, I woke up asking the Lord to show me His way and to encourage me through this day today. Some days I think you just know you are going to need an extra measure of umph and today was that day for me.

When I came to log into my computer I did what I always do first, check google reader. I found this post and my heart soared. Thanks Lord for letting me see that first thing this morning, I needed that.

I pray that if you need to hear a good word from the Lord today that you too will receive it. Believe in Him.
He will do more than we can ask, hope or imagine.

The Smell Of Christmas

One of my all time favorite recipes and memories from growing up.

Peel of 1 Orange
Peel of 1 Lemon
2 cinnamon sticks
1 bay leaf
several whole cloves

Simmer all ingredients in a small pan. Add water as needed.

Thanks Donna Willbanks for this wonderful Christmas tradition and recipe! I have done this almost every Christmas season since becoming a wife and homemaker.

Today Is Not Going According to Plan

The plan was for me to wake up early and get a few things done at work so that I could do a bit of grocery shopping and christmas shopping. I have bought only one present.

Instead my day has gone something like this:

• woke up an hour and half later than normal
• recieved a phone call from my co-worker telling me her house was broken into last night and could I contact a few dealers on her behalf. I feel so sorry for her talk about a Bah-hum-bug experience
• and since I woke up late, I just now took a shower during my lunch hour
• I am having to wear my old, and I mean old glasses, because my contact was found next to my contact case dried up and my newer glasses are on vacation somewhere around my bed. I think I know right where they are but hubs is sleeping and I don't want to wake him

Needless to say, I am not sure if I will be able to leave the house today to get groceries and shopping done. Honestly, I am not going to sweat it either. Life's to short to be allow myself to come unglued.

I will be watching this later tonight. It's the last year the Bush's will decorate the White House. Sniff, sniff! Why do I have the Boys to Men song "It's so Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday" playing in my head?

Merry Christmas everyone!

Santa is coming! Santa is coming!

Bargain Decorating

I have been entertaining myself the past few nights by doing a bit of bargain decorating. I love to buy nice things for my house knowing that I am paying a fraction of the original cost. One thing I have learned from my years as a furniture buyer is that you can always find a store that sells the same look you like for half the price. It may take a bit of creativity and hunting down but it can happen.

Bedroom Light

In the house we are buying the master bedroom is pretty small. After living in a one bedroom apartment with wall to wall furniture, I just can't seem to bring myself to do this in our new home. I have always like the Pottery Barn lamps that can be hung on the wall.

I found these online at pottery barn for $139, set of two.

And with a little bit of searching on the Internet, I found a similar look at IKEA for $34, set of two. And with a little bit of spray paint I can get the same color as the PB lamps if I choose.

Bathroom Sink

Our plan is to update the bathroom sink in the spare bathroom with a larger vanity. I just wanted a little more counter space than the original sink offers. Again I found one that I liked at PB but didn't want to spend as much as they were asking. Thanks to Lowe's I will be able to get one for $1000 less than PB.

Home Office

Can you guess where I got my inspiration for the home office? Yes! PB again.

Now I must say that I got my next idea from my Dad. In my office now I have two file cabinets with a door on top. I bought all of this for less than $500. PB was asking $1500-$2000, that just seems crazy to me to spend that much. I asked Jeff if we could add on another side to the desk when we moved and he said "Sure, eventually." Which is code for, "Give me a year or two and consider it done!" I do plan on repainting the door though as soon as I can after the move.

Dining Room Table

I would love to have a larger table that seats more than 4 people but at this point not a priority. The table we have is just fine for now until we get some other things purchased. Even though it is not a priority, you can't stop a girl for shopping. I found the table above at Stacy's Furniture. (Shh...don't tell my coworkers!) Sunday, while waiting for the nephew to come to town, Jeff and I went to see the table at the store. I liked it but hated spending full price. So my solution will be to find a rectangle table at a flea market or Craig's List and paint it the color I want. I then will probably order two more chairs that match the 4 I already have. My goal is to spend no more than $150 dollars on this. I will keep you posted as this little adventure unfolds.

New Dishes

We eventually will need to buy a new set of dishes since the ones we bought when we got married have started to get heat cracks in the center. Yet again, Jeff and I don't feel it is really a priority at this point but I can dream can't I? I found a set that I like at PB (can you tell this is my favorite store for inspiration?) I found the exact same dishes at IKEA, Target and Wal-Mart for half the price of PB.

Here is a bit of information for the inquiring minds who want to know:

The foundation is fixed but we have to wait 30-60 days to make sure it is good to go once it settles a bit. Jeff and I are fine with waiting. I am trusting God to move us when the time is right and best for us. I also can't wait to tell those of you who have known me for many years the exact location of the house and how this house came to us. God's hand has been all over the process of this move. But our new neighbors suggested that we have a bit of fun with everyone out there in blogland so you are going to have to wait. It will be fun to see if you guys can guess, I promise!

Meet the Newest Member to the Aunt Sue Sue Nest

Our nephew Jacob Matthew was born yesterday at 8:08 p.m. weighing 7 lb 8 oz, 19 1/2 inches long and we love him.

Yesterday after church Jeff and I headed home to start our traditional pancake dinner and Sunday afternoon nap. One phone call changed the whole course our day. We spent the next 7 hours, cheering and pacing until we were able to see that sweet boy.

Meredith did a fantastic job and while everyone was watching Jacob get bathed and weighed, I snuck off to have a few minutes alone with my sweet sister in law. Poor girl was sitting all by herself staring at the ceiling and reflecting on her accomplishment. I will always stand in awe of how well she did yesterday. She was a champ and 85% of the time was all smiles. She did a GREAT job!

Matt, Jeff's little brother did a great job supporting his wife too. I loved watching his face when they wheeled Jacob down to the nursery. His smile stretched all the way across his face.

I will never forget the look on Jeff's face when he asked his brother "Well, how was it?" The brothers have been keeping us girls in stitches as they talked about the dynamics of bringing a baby into the world the past nine months. Matt's response, "It was AWESOME and not scary at all!" Jeff, now can you be a little less of a worry wort when our time comes?

And I think Jacob's cousin Hayley is a bit smitten with the new addition (a huge answer to prayer). After she held him, she came up close to me and whispered, "I love him and he is perfect!" I almost cried tears of joy because that is exactly what Jeff and I have been praying for that sweet girl for the last few weeks.

God is faithful. God is good. God's timing is perfect. Today I am thankful for all that God is doing and all that God is going to do. I also can't wait to go back to the hospital and love on my sweet nephew!

What Happened To The Weekly Tradtion Jeff?

Today I have spent the day going through the scrapbook closet trying to clear out the things not making the move. The children's home is going to love me when I bring them my box of "craft crap" (thanks J for the name!) Anywho, I stumbled on this little diddy from Jeff a few years ago and had a good laugh.




A few thing worth pointing out:

(a) this is the only letter I recieved in the new Young Family love letter tradtion (b) we were watching the Three Amigos and basically he just wrote every word that he heard in the movie and or a commercial break.

Jeff wants to know when I am going to do doll up a scrapbook page for this letter.
I want to know why he only wrote one when it was going to be a "weekly" tradition?

Oh, it doesn't really matter...he's funny, I think I will keep him.

Christmas Fun!

Here is a picture of Jeff and I last year at Matt & Meredith's wedding. I still have no camera cord and decided to pull up an oldie but goodie.

My friend Susan (no another Susan not just me talking to myself) sent this to me today and I am too lazy to come up with my own topic for today's Christmas fun so here you go, a forwarded email turned blogpost.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? wrapping paper for me, gift bags for Jeff b/c he doesn't like to wrap but I love to unwrap my gifts
2. Real tree or Artificial? artificial

3. When do you put up the tree? the weekend after Thanksgiving
4. When do you take the tree down? week after New Years
5. Do you like eggnog? no
6. Favorite gift received as a child? cabbage patch doll

7. Hardest person to buy for? JEFF! He refuses to give a list but will tell you "I want a Jaguar XJR!" Yeah and I want a millionaire for a husband
8. Easiest person to buy for? my mom, she does give a list
9. Do you have a nativity scene? No! But I want one! This one to be exact
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail! This is my favorite thing about Christmas, all the fun mail!
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Stetson for Women

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? It's a Wonderful Life and Christmas Vacation

13. When do you start shopping? let's just say I haven't started yet
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? no but I have thought about it

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? peppermint bark

16. Lights on the tree? yes (who doesn't do lights on a tree?)
17. Favorite Christmas song? Hmm, I have a lot

18.Travel at Christmas or stay home? I wish we stayed home and everyone came to us...maybe next year
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Dasher, Dancer, Donner, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blixen and RUDOLPH (I just sang the song)
20.Angel on the tree top or a star? depends on what tree I am using that year, this year it's a star
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? people who don't give lists but insist on doing a gift exchange

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Red Santas!
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? green bean casserole and Maudie's sweet yam recipe
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? peace and joy in order to enjoy the journey God is leading us on.

Soaking It All In

I realize that in the next few weeks it is going to be very crazy around here. I look forward to the craziness, it means that changes are coming and after 6 years of the same ole, same ole-change is good.

Earlier this month Jeff and I decided to scale down Christmas for the two of us. Usually we go all out and buy those things that we have added to the list since the last Christmas season. This year we are buying a house and have big plans for our little place so the money is staying put.

I have also not accepted every Christmas party invitation this year. Jeff's work schedule is so busy this time of the year that when it comes to the weekends, all he wants to do is stay home, in his pj's, doing absolutely nothing but flipping the channels over and over again.

I have yet to hit the mall. I think I am avoiding that place because last year I almost got run over by a lady who wanted a parking spot I was walking by. So yes, I am little afraid of the big ole mall this year.

I haven't even shopped at Wal-Mart for groceries this year because I just can't handle it the chaos right now. Instead I have shopped at the old run down Kroger up the street where the average age customer is 75 years old. And well, the checkers are all retired too so things run at a much slower pace. A pace I find I prefer these days.

I guess you can say that I am soaking it all in this year.

And that to me is the best way to spend the Christmas season

Jodi's Blog Info

I received a few emails from my earlier post telling me they could not access Jodi's blog, if you look to the left of my blog, her blog is listed under MY FELLOW DEER RUNNERS, and click on David and Jodi. Now you can keep up with Brooklyn too.

Tomorrow is surgery day so please continue to pray. I must say I have enjoyed seeing the numerous emails pop up in my inbox letting me know someone has signed up to pray for the Beavers. If you haven't signed up, that's okay, God knows you don't have to have a sign up to talk to God. But since I know it means the world to David and Jodi to click on the prayer chain and see the different people praying please do not be afraid to list your name too. It will be a blessing to them, promise!

And don't forget to leave a comment on her blog, if you go there now you can see pictures of beautiful Brooklyn

Thanks for praying! You are awesome!

Sorry I Have Been Busy

I am praying for Baby Brooklyn, who was born today with spina bifida.

You can too by clicking on this link and enter in passcode: brooklyn (all lowercase)

http://www.mysignup.com/cgi-bin/view.cgi?datafile=brooklynhope

And to keep up to date with the latest news at www.ourbeaverdam.blogspot.com

I will be back later with fun stuff but for now my heart is elsewhere today.

A-Z Homemaking-A Fun Lil Meme

I borrowed this from my friend who rocks because she let me raid her house for a pair of scissors on my way to the "Ornament making smack down 08"


A is for Aprons - yes/no? I love aprons. I inherited most of my great grandmothers and picked up a black and white toile looking one in New Orleans, the first ever family Road Trip.

B is for Baking - favourite thing to bake? chocolate chip cookies especially the kind that you break apart and cook. I love to bake actually and am looking forward to a slightly bigger kitchen when we move.

C is for Clothesline - do you have one? No since I currently live in an apartment not in the ghetto-I don't think my neighbors would enjoy that very much. My new house may end up having one b/c I love to dry sheets outside (It reminds me ofCousin Gay!)

D is for Donuts - have you ever made them? Thanks to my days at CDR, I do know how to make them. Maybe I should buy a FryDaddy so I can make the indoor version.

E is for Every Day - one homemaking task you do every day.

Laundry! Wash-Dry-Fold-Put away=my least favorite household chore


F is for Freezer - do you have a separate deep freeze? I will in oh, 60 days

G is for Garbage Disposal Unit - do you have one? Yes.

H is for Handbook - what’s your favourite homemaking resource? Home Comforts by Cheryl Mendelson (using A's answer-I love this book) but my all time favorite resource is (can you guess?) FLYLADY

I is for Ironing - love or hate it? indifferent, I only iron on Sundays for church

J is for Junk Draw - yes/no? How about re-naming them Messy Drawers with a Purpose (again A's answer!)

K is for Kitchen - colour and decorating scheme? umm, hello apartment life but don't worry I will show you the new kitchen when it is done

L is for Love - what’s your favourite part of homemaking? the feeling of calm that comes from my daily routines and decorating, oh how I love to put my stamp on things

M is for Mop - do you have one? Yes

N is for Nylons - machine or hand wash? never, ever wear them! I do have some unopened in my dresser that my mom insisted I buy an extra pair for my wedding day. I can't seem to throw them out since they were going to be worn at my wedding.

O is for Oven - do you use a window or open the oven door to check? yes

P is for Pizza - what do you put on yours? Pepperoni with a side of ranch to dip it in. (I picked up this habit when I babysat regularly for the Barrow's. I had never done this until Bre and Katie taught me the joy of ranch dressing and pizza!)

Q is for quiet - what do you do during the day when you get a quiet moment? I cherish it because I realize that this season will pass one day and I will not have as many quiet moments.

R is for Recipe Card Box - yes/no? Yes. I have a few recipe cards that I wrote when I was in a cooking class at FWC in the 7Th grade. I wrote really large and bubbly like back then

S is Style of House - what style is your house? Pottery Barn meets Southern Living magazine mix


T is for Tablecloths - do you use them? No. Do I have a few? Yes, one more thing I have inherited from my great grandmother

U is for Under The Kitchen Sink - organised or toxic wasteland? um, what do you think? It's organized

V is for Vacuum - how many times a week? Once a week. Vacuuming is Jeff's favorite thing to come home to, he would love it if I did it daily. Maybe one day I will do it everyday but right now, it's a weekly thing

W is for Wash - how many loads of washing do you do each week? 6 loads, Mon-Sat, one a day. I don't do laundry on Sundays, it's against my religion

Do you keep a daily list of things to do that you cross off? Yes. To Do lists and I are BFF's

Y is for Yard - who does what? Praise God for my amigos who take care of the apartment grounds. They really do a great job and I love it when they change out the flower beds to match the seasons. And yes, I have told them how much I enjoy it. Seriously, after living here for 7 years, you become one with the grounds people. Especially back in the day when I worked away from home, they would blow leaves on me as I walked to my car and just laugh. These are the times I am thankful for my days working with all Spanish speaking cooks, I could tell them to cut it out and joke around with them. It was all in good fun, I didn't sweat it.

Zzzz’s - what’s the last homemaking task you do before bed in the evening? Get my coffee ready for the morning, brush teeth, take vitamins and head to bed.

Yesterday Went Something Like This

Woke up had a cup of coffee (Dunkin Donuts, thank you very much) while reading the book of Lamentations (skipped the month of August in my DCB, now I am playing catch up)

I worked hard for my money for a few hours and then took a nap.

Later I did Day 3 of my training for a 10K workout. Jeff and I decided this first week was in order to get our brain wrapped around the idea of running without stopping. It sucked but I did it. Yeah Me!

For dinner I popped in a frozen pizza after promising hubs I would cook a real meal tomorrow.

I sat back and watched a bit of Fox New with hubs before he went to work.

When he left, I began reading the final book in the Yada Yada Prayer Group Series. I like it because it is set during a holiday season and talking lots about the true meaning of Christmas. If you haven't read this series and are looking for a good book to sink your teeth into, try these. They are very sweet and down to earth.

Finally I ended my night with another great episode of The Office. The Dwight and Angela storyline cracked me up, smooth move Dwight.
And winded down while watching The Santa Clause. I forgot how cute this movie was.

It was a good day.

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well I just got a call from the friend we are buying the house from and if we choose to we can move in to the house in 30 days.

Foundation will be done next week.
Plumber will come out the following week

And the we can move in or as June suggested start putting my decorating touch on the house.

But since Jeff is playing Santa Clause right now, we will probably wait until January to move.

Friends please give a hearty HALLELUJAH for us.

I told June when she called that I was crying out to the Lord yesterday asking Him why we are in a waiting period and then today, during my quiet time she called and told us the good news.

I am thankful for this news.

God's timing is perfect.

Now let's see what God is going to do with the other part of my prayer request...

December Daily: Trying to Stay Focused

I love all things Christmas. The tree, decor, cards, giving and receiving presents, Christmas lights to look at when I drive at night, good food, the story of Santa and the overall holiday spirit.

But one thing, above all else, that I want to cherish most this year is the birth of Jesus. Over the past year I have been reading the Daily Chronological Bible, oh how I encourage everyone to make this their New Year's Resolution. No matter where I have been this past year, my daily readings have been faithful to meet me where I am. For example today I was reading the story of Paul's imprisonment in Jerusalem; I found a little story that made me stop and think. You see the Jews did not like the fact that Paul was preaching about Jesus. They made up bogus claims like he was speaking against the Jews and starting riots. These lies are what lead to Paul's imprisonment. King Agrippa arrives in Caesarea to visit Festus. Festus brings the situation before Agrippa.

The words that Festus said to Agrippa jumped out at me this morning.

"But the accusations made against him (Paul) weren't any of the crimes I expected. Instead, it was something about their religion and a dead man named Jesus, who Paul insists is alive." Acts 25:18-19

I am not really sure what caught me the most. The fact that they called Jesus a dead man or the fact that they were expecting Paul to be some kind of hardened criminal based on what the Jews had said about Him. Actually what fascinated me the most, is that through all of the years Paul spent in prison, His faith never wavered-if anything it grew stronger. He was beaten, falsely accused, ship wrecked among many other things, yet he kept going. He kept preaching the Good News of Jesus. Jesus the risen Lord, not a dead man. Jesus who was born as a baby to a virgin girl. Jesus whose main goal in life was to seek and save the lost and who later would die for my sins. Jesus who not only died for my sins but for yours as well. And because of Jesus' death we have eternal life if we believe in Him and if we admit we are nothing without Him in our lives.

I admit that I enjoy the holiday festivities like the everyone else but most of all, I enjoy the true meaning of Christmas, Jesus' birth. My goal this holiday season is to take time out to reflect on Him. To spend less time shopping and more time reflecting. I also want to be more like Paul. Even though he faced many hardships for his ministry he never wavered from the truth, in all things he continued his quest to spread his message about Jesus. His life and testimony are an inspiration to me. No matter where the path lead him he remained faithful and he remained steadfast.

Truly amazing isn't it?

Oh and one last thing totally not relevant to what I just wrote...

Jodi, do you want to ride a donkey in the next few days so you can say you truly know how Mary must have felt when she rode to town 9 months pregnant? Just a thought, don't throw anything at me, I'm only kidding

Christmas Card Fun

One of my favorite things about the holidays is Christmas cards. I love to give and receive them. In fact, I have a Christmas card scrapbook that I will show you as soon as I get the correct USB cable.

In the meantime, I thought it would be fun to show you a few of our card rejects. Hubs and I decided that while we were on THE ROAD TRIP 08, we would snap our card photo. He really wanted one of us on the beach but forgot to tell me this until I sat down next to him after playing a game of volleyball on the beach (no I wasn't playing volleyball, I was sleeping on the beach with my preggo sister in law...seriously!) I did not bring a cover up for my swimsuit or take time to look at a mirror before brother in law snapped the photo. I knew there was no way I would be sending this photo out for all to see. Maybe next year, if we go to the beach, I will plan for us to look better and not so redneck.

And would you like a time saving tip?

1). Order your prints from somewhere that allows you to upload your picture online. This year I used Sam's Club and was able to pick up the same day, not to mention buy my stamps in bulk.

2). Buy 8460 Avery White mailing labels and type in your card list addresses. I saved them on my computer and have found this document very handy as a quick reference to find people's addresses throughout the year. A box of 3000 is what the link will send you and you can buy less to save money.

I will upload the actual Christmas card this year on Christmas day but didn't want to ruin the fun for anyone who may be receiving a copy in the mail in a few days. I can't wait to start getting Christmas cards in the mail either. :)

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas!

My Christmas tree is up. I would love to show you a picture but I can't upload any pictures until I buy the correct cord. Oh I bought a USB cable that allowed you to use multiple memory cards, all of them I guess, except my memory card. I thought I would wait until tomorrow and try to sneak up to Best Buy while the holiday shoppers were at work.

In the meantime, make sure if you are a google reader that you check out the new blog template. It too is festive for the holidays.

Gratitude Attitude

I was reminded of this quote today in my quiet time.

"Gratitude- The heart that is constantly overflowing with gratitude will be safe from those attacks of resentfulness and gloom that bother so many persons." A.W Tozer

I wrote in my journal today that I choosing gratitude over self pity and then wrote the following list. I share just a few with you.

Lord, I am thankful for my husband, his strength, his leadership and love

Lord, I am grateful for my church family who continually encourages me in good times and bad always pointing me back to the cross.

Lord I am thankful for renewed friendships. Thank you for bringing people into my life who I have not talked to in many years. Too many to write and I praise you for these old friends.

Lord I am thankful for the ministry you have given me-what a joy to see Ephesians 2:10 played out in my life.

Lord thank you for the feeling of contentment that overflows in my life right now. Thank you for showing me that this time of waiting should be cherished. I know your timing is perfect so I wait with hopeful anticipation for the coming months.

Friends, God has been faithful over this past year to show us that His timing is perfect and that He does have a plan for me. As I finished writing my last thankful statement, I looked at the bottom of that page and this verse was written there.

"For I know the plans I have for you" says the Lord, "They are plans for good." Jeremiah 29:11 TLB

And on another note, I can't wait to share with you pictures from the last week. Jeff was on a roll one night and I was able to capture his mood on camera. I have pictures from the Turkey Trot too.

I hope you guys are having a wonderful Saturday. I am heading to the movies in an hour to see Quantum of Solice then Hubs and I are going to be one with the fellow consumers of DFW and shop a bit.

Sucker For Chick Flicks

I love a good chick flick. Love, love, love them!

Over the last few years, I have built up a pretty good selection one movie at a time. Good chick flicks are the best accessory to a scrapbook weekend or a chicks only es-cape.

Today I had four of my favorites arrive in the mail.

Trouble With Angels, Pride and Prejudice, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and P.S. I Love You.

Here is one of my favorite scenes from Trouble With Angels.




And yesterday, along with a row of teenage girls, I saw Twilight. I can guarantee you that I will own this movie one day too.

And just in case you missed it the first time, read below.

Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow

Yesterday I stayed in my pajamas all day. I scrapbooked and read Sunset all in in one sitting.

Today I skipped church. And Jeff started us Fall cleaning. We flipped the mattress and vacuumed under the bed. It was gross down there.

Tomorrow I am going to see Twilight during business hours. I feel like I deserve it now that all the ads for work have been created...by yours truly.


I guess am feeling feisty right now! Goofing off and allowing yourself a bit of downtime is very comforting, You should do it now!

I Heart Saturdays

The weather is cold.
The coffee is hot and fresh.
The house is warm.
My table is covered with scraps of paper while I create a scrapbook master piece.
Later, I am heading to the matinee with hubs, who looks hot in his new glasses.
Life is good.
I heart Saturdays.

Song In My Head: I Surrender All

I woke up singing this song this morning and had a moment of weakness but all is good now. My Heavenly Father has filled me.



When I saw this video I thought of two things.

1) The trees look like what I imagine the Twilight forest to look like, can't wait to see the movie this weekend!

2) When I was a young chap at Airport Freeway, the church would sing "I Surrender All" as the invitational song. This song scared me as a little girl because I knew someone was about to "get dunked." I would crawl into my mom or dad's lap and cover my head until the "dunking" was over. Many years later I learned that the dunking is a beautiful part to the Christian walk and now I cry tears of joy for the dunkee.

I surrender all! I surrender all!

And one last thing totally not relevent to this post...

I've Got Some Words To Use Up

ahem! (that's me clearing my throat!)

(one more time for good measure!) A-HEM!!!


Do you ever have those days where you wake up and know God is about to do something a-mazing? Not just amazing but A-MA-ZING! Well that is how my day went today. A good day, so good in fact that I almost feel guilty mentioning it since sooooo many of my sweet friends are having rough weeks. I am sorry for those of you who have not had as good of day as me. I apologize in advance for sounding boastful.

But I am about to do a bit of Biblical Boasting so forgive me if it sounds like I am trying to toot my own horn, I say all of this so that God will get the glory.

For the past few months, I have been on an emotional roller coaster. I am finally at the part of the ride where all the twists and dips have started to go smooth. I may dip in the future but I guarantee when I dip I am going to laugh because I know that God is going to bring me joy in every dip and turn in my life. He has already.

So why was my day good? I was able to see God's hand working in every facet of my life today. I was able to be a friend to someone who is where I was two years ago. I was able to have a godly woman who I hold in high esteem call me and say she wanted to mentor me. The cool thing is, this woman is older than 50 and never had kids. This woman is someone who has been able to be used by the Lord and has been a blessing to many. This woman is joyful and at peace with where God has lead her. I love this woman. No matter what happens in the next coming week, months or years, I know that I have someone in my corner who truly knows the twists and dips of my life.

To top it all off, I had dinner with three of my favorite ladies tonight. Three women that I look up to and admire. One of the ladies is a Biblical Counselor. She has been a huge blessing in overcoming many areas of my past and helping me set strong foundations for the future. She is the one who has encouraged me to move to the next step of my journey. (The next step of my journey I will share another day) Tonight as the four of us sat, talked and later prayed, I knew what Timothy must have felt like in the presence of Paul and Barnabas. Total awe and excitement that God would choose little ole me to sit with these ladies. I look forward to what the future holds!

Through today I realized that God is doing something bigger than I could even imagine with me, in this present moment. I see God's hand guiding me down this path and I praise Him. Fully praise Him for revealing Himself to me. Friends, I know there are many of you tonight who are wondering where the heck God is in your life? Why hasn't He shown up? Can I encourage you to keep seeking because you will find Him. Read the Bible daily, ask friends to pray for you and hold you up when you are weak. God has a plan for each and everyone of us. It's just sometimes we have to wait in order for all the craziness to subside so we can hear God's voice through it all.

Don't give up peeps! Keep pressing forward and wait because God is about to do something so fantastic with your life!

I love you, sweet friends, who are having a bad week! Call if you need anything!
Maybe an Es-cape!
sorry, inside joke I will explain another day

(FYI: As always please ignore the run-ons, crazy sentence structure and misspellings-I am too lazy to edit tonight.)

Super Yummy!!!

Homemade Lasagna

1 pound ground beef (I sub turkey)
2 large cloves garlic, crushed (I use two huge scoops of minced garlic in jar)
1 28 ounce jar favorite spaghetti sauce
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 12 ounce container of cottage cheese (I have been known to use 16 ounces...mmm)
1 and half teaspoon of pepper
8 large noodles, uncooked
1 10 ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained (squeeze out all the water)
2 cups (8 ounce) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parm cheese

Preheat oven to 350

Crumble beef and garlic in large skillet. Brown and drain.
Add spaghetti sauce.
Combine egg, cottage cheese and pepper
Spread 1/2 cup meat sauce in 13x9x2 inch baking dish. Top with 4 uncooked noodles, cottage cheese mixture, spinach, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, and cover with foil.

Bake for 50 minutes.
Add Parmesan cheese and bake uncovered for 10 minutes.
Let stand for a 15 minutes before serving.

I got this recipe from Easy Weeknight Favorites by Southern Living. If you don't have it, get it, it's chalk full of fast, delicious meals. Men, hook up your honey! Your wife and tummy will thank me!

Today I ...

Today I treated myself to a warm fire during my quiet time.

Today I am still in my pj's as I get a few things done at work.

Today I will have to get dressed to head to the post office although a few hours of lounging around has been nice.

Today I am actually going to cook the homemade lasagna, yesterday I ran out time.

Today I am skimming through my recipes and cookbooks to find the perfect dish to bake. I am craving something sweet but may try Aunt Bessie's Yeast Rolls. I would love to bless my in-laws with a batch of Bessie's rolls but need to do a test run before Thanksgiving.

Today I am resting in God's goodness and faithfulness.

Today I am praising God for friends who let me be real and show my fears through tears.

Today I am listening to the Phantom of the Opera soundtrack.

Today I am making a list of things to discuss with Margaret for the Women's Retreat.

Today I am thankful that our dinner got postponed until tomorrow night so I can relax today.

Today I am going to finish my ads for work. (Thank Ya Jesus!)

Today I am going to call and check on a sweet friend who is not having a very good week.

Today I am going to walk 2 miles, I am training for the Turkey Trot next week.

Today I pray, will be a good day!

For Today: November, 17 2008

Outside my window... the trees are red, orange and a bit of green. Love it!

I am thinking... about how to balance my to do list this week.

I am thankful for... the baby bird that just sat on my window. I wish I had my camera ready to snap the photo.

From the kitchen...today I am making homemade lasagna, hubs favorite.

I am wearing...my flannel pajama pants since my boss called needing something done before I had a chance to get dressed. Ah, the joys of working at home on a Monday.

I am creating...digital ads for work and looking forward to getting time to catch up on a few scrapbook pages this week.

I am going...to savor the holiday season and not allow myself to get bogged down with all the frenzy.

I am (frantically) reading... Idols of The Heart by Elyse Fitzpatrick for book club tonight. 4 more chapters to go!

I am hoping...for a call telling us our house is ready to move in.

I am hearing... the cars drive by on the street outside and the hum of my computer. The house is pretty quiet right now and I am thankful.

Around the house...thanks to Flylady, I will be cleaning the cobwebs from the ceilings, clearing off a shelf in my closet and throwing a way 27 things that I don't use anymore.

One of my favorite things... the past few nights I have been brewing a cup of decaf hazelnut coffee and watching old reruns of the Cosby Show in my favorite chair. I admit I am a sucker for a good cup of joe and TV land reruns.

A few plans for the rest of the week: book club tonight, dinner with Margaret Tuesday to discuss the women's retreat, lunch with a friend on Wednesday, eye doctor on Thursday and scrap booking on Friday.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Thanksgiving 2002- Faith's first time to jump into the leaf pile at Nanny Betty's house.

For More Simple Woman's Day books, head over to Peggy's Blog http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

How I Could I Forget This Show?!

I love The Office. It makes me laugh every time. I love Dwight. I love Pam and Jim. And I love Michael's funny one liners. Last night's show was super funny to me. I found myself laughing out loud, very loud. (I am sure some of you are hearing my laugh now in your heads)

How could I have not listed this show? Hmm....

Here is a recap that BooMama does every week, so if you are a fan of this show too and watched it last night, you should read it.

"I am your wing man!"

8 THINGS

This is the last post for the week, promise! I am afraid many of you are going to flip out when you see all my posts in google reader. I will take a few days to let you catch up because I am here for you!

But let me just say, when a friend who is in a blogging slump posts and says "Tag your it!" you better join in and fast, so maybe she will get out of the posting slump. I am hear strictly to support a friend.

8 TV Shows (this is going to be hard, I hate TV)

1. Jon & Kate Plus 8
2. Little People Big World
3. 17 Kids and Counting
4. Murder She Wrote (I know, I know, Jeff already teases me for this)
5. Andy Griffin (Yes, again, Jeff's got you covered on the jokes)
6. Maverick basketball
7. Fox News...
8. Little House on the Prairie (Shout out to Andrea!)

8 Restaurants

1. Joe T Garcias
2. Chili's (even after I worked there I still eat it)
3. Sonic (of course)
4. Chuy's in Austin LOVE! IT!
5. La Hacienda Ranch
6. Celebrity Bakery
7. OC Burger (don't be a fool, eat there if you live in the DFW area)
8. PF Changs

8 Things That Happened Today

1. I slept in until 9 after taking a Tylenol PM last night
2. I worked on a few ad's for my customers
3. I helped niece Hayley update her IPOD with a few of my tunes
4. I made Spaghetti and Meatballs (I should post this recipe, it's healthy and yummy!)
5. I played on Facebook, I love that place!
6. I cleaned out from under my kitchen cabinets (Thank you FLYLADY!)
7. I scrap booked Katy's 6th birthday from March. I am behind and I don't care.
8. I kissed my hubby good night when he walked out the door and did a jig because I had the place to myself. (Hee! Hee!)

8 Things I am Looking Forward To

1. getting a call that our home is ready
2. Turkey Trot 2009, Jeff is running a 10K, I think I will stick with the 5K
3. THE MOVIE OF THE YEAR! (hint: vampires!)
4. watching God do His thing in our life
5. Baby Brooklyn's arrival and seeing God move in this child's life
6. meeting baby cousin Nolan (Rach, are you guys headed this way? Let's hook up!)
7. Christmas time! And seeing Andrea's decorations! (I couldn't think of anything else)
8. a girl's weekend that I could really use

Watch This Video

If you are wanting to procratinate...watch this video. If you like pets...watch this video. If you own a cat....watch this video. If you are looking for a way to entertain the toddler...watch this video. It's cute, you should enjoy it!

Thank you Dad for sending this, makes me want to get another cat. Oh wait, I am catbox free. Nevermind, I will just enjoy the video. Happy Wednesday everyone!

Something Funny to Share

The other night I was surfing the Internet on Jeff's side of the computer. I hit the down arrow to see if I could find a recent search I did on google. Low and behold I found the funniest searched items, all done by my sweet and oh so humerous husband.

I am listing them in order of not so funny to super funny. (Or it was funny to me!)

4. Blessed Assurances Blog-he said he was looking for the blog to see if I wrote anything about him that week.

3. Where's the Beef? He was watching a I Love the 80's and decided to search for the little old lady that said "Where's the Beef? in the Wendy's commercials.

2. What to look for in a knife- earlier that day we went to the Gun Show and a man was showing off a few antique knifes, Jeff must have been impressed. This one is really not that funny but in the moment it was funny that he would google that phrase.

And my all time favorite!

1. Is Jamie Lee Curtis a man?

LOL! I love this guy! Oh to get in his head to see his train of thought when he typed out that question!!! If I had to guess, I would say it came from the time I was flipping through the television channels and stopped for a brief moment on Freaky Friday. He was surfing the Internet at that time and I guess got curious.

Cultivating Gratitude

I love the Revive Our Hearts backgrounds, they always seem to have one that speaks to my season of life. This one says, "Gratitude: The heart that is constantly overflowing with gratitude will be safe from the attacks of resentfulness and gloom that bother so many persons." A.W Tozer


Can I get a AMEN!?!?

This quote hits home to my life in so many ways. If I wanted to, I could grow bitter and resentful in the waiting. I know it wouldn't be hard almost like the flip of a switch. But that would be crazy and I don't do crazy! Over the past year, I have celebrated with many who have become pregnant and had a baby. I cherish every life God has given to my friends. I love the fact that many of my friend's children run to Jeff and I when we walk into the room. It's like they know that fun times are ahead. We love giving the kids laughter. But more than that we love watching the kids minds work. I love to see how a child kind of takes it all in, they soak up the moment and can come up with some of the funniest activities or phrases.

Truly, God is blessing us in the waiting. Yesterday was a blessing for us in the land of children's ministry. The pastor's wife and I have been teaching the children the 10 Commandments. Yesterday they did this in front of the church. Many of the kids were able to recite the commandments very quickly after we said, "Number One, Number Two" and so on. Oh they made us proud.

So proud in fact, that is all Jeff and I talked about on the way home. I promise you that for most of the day yesterday we talked about each one of our students. "Aren't you proud of so and so?" and "Isn't it fun to see so and so come out of his shell?"

It's fun to live in the moment, doing what God has called for us to do in this season. I am grateful for the moments where we can see God's plan unfolding in our lives. I am grateful for this journey with all it's twists and turn. I admit that sometimes I do get sad, but I choose never to grow bitter or resentful. I am trusting and I am living fully in the plans God has for us.

And I believe that is why I am able to cultivate a heart of gratitude.

It Dosen't Get Better Than This

Friday night in my favorite long sleeve tee and pajama pants.

Feasting on hamburgers made on the grill with an extra measure of pepper jack cheese

The place is clean, the candle smells sweet.

I am cuddled on the couch watching a movie with Jeff and laughing at his silly comments.

We are watching Cast Away, he tells me he can feel Tom's pain. It must be a Fed Ex thing.

And to top it off I am eating a gigantic chocolate bar that Jeff brought home for me today

I swear, in this moment, it just doesn't get better than this

For Today

I promise that I will be productive even though I would rather goof off.

I promise to take the day in stride and not worry about all the things on my to do list.

I promise to cook Jeff an actual dinner rather than slapping food on the table 15 minutes before he has to go to work.

I promise that I will not let my busyness get in the way of loving on Jeff.

I promise that the next time he says, "Sit next to me and rest awhile" that I will actually do this instead of recount all the reasons why I can't rest but have to keep moving. (I am so sad that I let this happen.)

I promise that I will start and finish one load of laundry today. I realize I am getting in a horrible habit and forgetting I even started a load. I hate the smell of stale laundry.

I promise not to forget that I thawed a whole pound of ground sirloin last night only to find it still sitting in the microwave this morning. I almost threw up right there and may do so now just thinking about it.

I promise that I will do one task at a time and quit trying to multitask. I believe this is why I forgot about the meat.

I promise that I will not compare my life to those around me. I will let God define our journey.

I promise I will not worry about the future but trust God to lead us.

I promise to not allow the interruptions to frustrate me but embrace them as an opportunity to show God's love through my actions.

I promise that I will be joyful in the moment rather than short tempered and moody.

I promise. I promise. I promise.

My Hope Is In God

This morning I woke up needing a bit of comfort from my Heavenly Father. As always He was faithful to provide a few verses to settle my spirit.

Psalms 146: 3-5

3 Do not put your trust in princes,
in mortal men, who cannot save.

4 When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.

5 Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the LORD his God

Psalms 118: 7-9

7 The LORD is with me; he is my helper.
I will look in triumph on my enemies.

8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD
than to trust in man.

9 It is better to take refuge in the LORD
than to trust in princes.

Psalms 147: 10-11

10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his delight in the legs of a man;

11 the LORD delights in those who fear him,
who put their hope in his unfailing love.


Psalms 62: 5;8

5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.

8 Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.


Psalms 25:4-5 (one of my favorite verses in recent months)

4 Show me your ways, O LORD,
teach me your paths;

5 guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.


Friends, yesterday my friend Wade posted a wonderful post. It's a must read. And today and yesterday Beth Moore also posted a must read. Please check them out.

And remember no matter who we voted for in yesterday's election we all serve the same God. A God who knows are thoughts even before we speak them. A God who makes leaders rise and fall. A God who is sovereign and fully in control. Put your hope in Him and Him alone.

'Nuf said about that.

"Go out and make it a great day" -MOM

Best Buds

Here is a picture of two best buds trick or treating Friday night.

One is 3 the other 38.
One is nicknamed Jazzy Jeff. The other is nicknamed Super Bubbie.

This little friendship has been fun for me to watch take shape.
They defiantly think the world of each other.
And this little cowboy sure does keep us laughing.




And here is a cute picture of the whole gang Trick or Treating.

Taking A Leap of Faith At Our Place

Pray for us, we did not sign another 6 month lease, we are now living month to month.

I am praying that we can move into our home before Christmas.

And since Jeff is still 80/20 on which way to go regarding the house, I am not allowed to give details...yet. But yes, we have a home that I am already mentally decorating.

Pray for discernment. Pray that the Lord either opens or closes the doors for whatever house He has planned for us. Praise for the leap of faith on Jeff's part and the contentment on Little Mrs Planners end.

Life is good.

We are blessed!


I will post Trick or Treat photos on Monday.