Our Blessed Family

2011-12-12T08:26:00.000-08:00

Just wanting to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! Hope you are enjoying this magical month. I love to spend more time with my family and friends, remember our traditions, cook, watch Christmas movies and listening to my Christmas music. This is my absolute favorite time of the year. I wish we could celebrate it longer...lol. People just seem to be more caring this time of the year. I think it should last all year long:)
Hope you all have a blessed Christmas!

~~And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. Luke 2:8-20

2011-06-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

The Modest Mom is having a scentsy giveaway!! Go here to check it out:)

http://www.themodestmomblog.com/2011/06/scentsy-giveaway.html#comment-form

Summer Schedule

2011-06-14T11:15:00.001-07:00

So...I find myself being lazy. And so very hard to get up and do the things I know I need to do around the house. I don't want to waste this summer. I don't want to give the kids free range and let them watch t.v. or play the wii all. day. long. I want to make a schedule for me and the kiddos. I just don't know where to begin.
How do you make a summer schedule?? What are some of the things you do on a daily basic to make sure your house work doesn't get behind??
Anything will be helpful....

Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent." John 6:29

A Little Bit Of Autumn

2011-06-13T14:38:00.000-07:00

This post is really an Autumn post. However, I just couldn't help myself.
The other day, I made some pumpkin pancakes with warm, maple syrup. Oh my, they were simply amazing.

Here's the recipe:
~2 cups all purpose flour or you could use half wheat flour
~2 tbs brown sugar
~1 tbs baking powder
~1/2 tsp salt
~1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
~1 1/2 cups milk
~1 cup pumpkin puree
~1/2 cup eggs (I think that's about 2 eggs)
~2 tbs oil

Mix dry ingredient, then in a separate bowl mix wet ingredients, then mix all together.I got the recipe from http://my.hearthealthyonline.com/recipe/pancakes-waffles/pumpkin-pancakes/

I hope you all enjoy them. They made me think of Fall. Don't get me wrong, I'm very glad it's summer time. I love the lake, camping, gardening, grilling, late nights with friends....but Oh, how I love Fall~~The beautiful colors of the crisp leaves, pumpkins, cooking...lots of baking, coffee, pumpkin patches, scarecrows, and so much more.

So are you all reminiscing of another season??
He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:3

Summer Once More:)

2011-05-31T07:42:00.000-07:00

Once again it's been a long while since I've posted. I wish I had more time to spend on the blog, but most of the time, I just don't. I do enjoy reading all of yours though:) I hope all of you are having a good summer so far. It has just begun.

We are very excited about this summer....we got a "new to us" pop-up camper! We have wanted one for years and found one for a GREAT price. It is a 1974 and looks brand new in 1974! It looks absolutely amazing and we can't wait to take it out. We actually went to the lake this weekend. The water is extremely high still, from all the rain we had a few months ago. Reservations have been cancelled till the middle of June. I am really hoping that the water level goes down, so we can go camping. It really is one of our family's greatest adventures!

The kiddos still have school till the first week in June. That's unusual, but they missed some days due to the snow we had. Let me tell you....they are so ready to be done with school...lol. Who's not though? I was always ready for school to be out.

Well, I need to get started on this huge pile of laundry. Hope you all have a very blessed day.

~The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. Exodus 14:14

God's Word....Encouragement

2011-02-07T08:31:00.000-08:00

~For whatever is born of God, overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world; your faith. 1 John 5:4

~Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

~He said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you. Go in peace." Luke 7:50

~Behold, God is my helper. The Lord is the one who sustains my soul. Psalm 54:4

~From infancy, you have known the holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:15

2010-12-09T07:48:00.000-08:00

Hello All!! How are you and your families? We are doing well here. Very ready for Christmas!! We have put up our tree and decorated the house:) LOVE this time of year!!

My semester is finished and I have a nice little break. Very excited about that.

We just got 4 new hens and a rooster. All the chickens seem to be getting along. Duke (our dog) is loving them too. He runs around the coupe, pouncing....and puts his mouth on the coupe and lets them peck his mouth...LOL. He's a hoot!!

He too just got a new dog house. It's awesome. Someone gave it to us. It was built for a Great Dane, so it's really big. My boys can stand up inside of it! It will keep him nice and warm when he has to be outside while we're gone.

I hope you all have a very wonderful, Merry Christmas. I hope you stay warm, cherish the moments with your family, make lots of lovely traditions, and most of all remember why we celebrate Christmas. The Amazing birth of Christ. The most wonderful gift of all...along with His wonderful gift of Salvation.

Luke 2:9-14

~~~And, lo, an angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, "Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall bea sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

What a wonderful story....a wonderfully, true story!! We get to be with God one day! I am so thankful for His gifts!! May God Bless you all....Merry Christmas!!

Chickens!!

2010-11-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

We have chickens:) My hubby and I just finished their coupe! They are very happy about that. Sorry I've been gone so long. Being in school full time, kids football and baseball, keeping up the home, trying to get in bed at a decent hour=very long days! I will try to post pics soon.
I am very thankful for the Fall weather:) It's one of my favorite times of the year!! We also got a new dog...Duke. He was a gift for my youngest....but he's graciously sharing him with us:) He's a full-blooded chocolate lab. I'll try to post pics of him soon too. Hope you all have a blessed day!

"For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair, let a child run their fingers through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone. People, more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself and the other for helping others." ~~Audrey Hepburn~~

~Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1~

New Blog!!

2010-10-12T08:08:00.000-07:00

Over at Big Dreams In A Little House there is an apron giveaway. It's one of the cutest aprons. She sews for Etsy and had a leftover apron. Go check it out here. Hope you enjoy her blog:)
Blessings to everyone!!
"These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Whole Foods

2010-08-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

I've learned a lot from my sis and brother-in-law about whole foods this summer. They truly are better for you. I'm stilling learning more everyday. We are going to start getting meat from grass fed animals, raw milk, and many more different foods that are natural and/or organic. We are starting slowly because it does cost a bit more buying natural and organic foods. But it's worth it because the better you eat, the better you feel.

Check out www.kellythekitchencop.com to learn more about whole natural and organic foods.

I'm very excited about this Fall. We are getting chickens!!!! I've been talking to my hubby about it for at least a year now, but have had little luck due to us living in town and the worry of the stink they give off. However, his we spent a week with his sis on vacation and she was able to explain to him benefits about having chickens. I only want 3....and even though we live in town, we have a great size backyard that is fenced in. He is now very much looking forward to getting the chickens and building the coop. We have had a garden this summer. We had corn, but the ants got the best of it, we currently have 2 watermelons growing and growing, we got 1 cucumber..lol..it was very tasty and fresh (and organic), and we have a blackberry bush. It has really grown since I've planted it. Hopefully it will flourish and produce next season. We've also got a big batch of okra. The okra has done the best. We had trouble growing any tomatoes, cantaloupe or carrots....and our pear trees didn't produce this year. But, we were very excited for the way things turned out for our first garden. We plan on having a Fall garden and my awesome hubby is going to build a coop over the spring garden that can be moved to the Fall garden when it comes time to plant another spring garden. That way the chickens can fertilize each one. We are so excited that we will soon be having fresh eggs:)

This morning I made some amazing waffles, if I do say so myself:) They are good for you too.

Check out the recipe:

~1 1/2 cups white flour or whole wheat flour

~1 cup old fashioned rolled oats

~1 Tbsp. baking powder

~1/2 tsp. cinnamon

~1/4 tsp. salt

~~~~Mix the above ingredients together

~~~~Mix the below ingredients together

~2 eggs

~1 1/2 cups raw milk

~4 Tbsp. coconut oil

~2 Tbsp. brown sugar

~~~~Mix all ingredients together and pour in waffle iron until done.

**I say they are good for you because most of the ingredients I used were all natural or organic. You can top these yummy waffles with maple or all natural syrup, yogurt, jam, or fresh fruit. They really are delicious and my kids loved them as well! I plan on making a double batch and freezing them to pop in the toaster on school mornings for a quick, nutritious meal.

I hope you all have a blessed day!

~My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken. Psalm 62:1-2

Sounthern Homecooked Meal

2010-06-30T15:03:00.001-07:00

This is more like a fall meal, but it's easy and yummy. Ham, beans, and cornbread (from scratch.) I am loving summer. We haven't gone on our vacation yet....but in some ways I'm missing fall already. I'm drinking coffee today, making this delicious autumn meal, and listening to my Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosy, (and many more great singers) mix of music. I LOVE it!

I was browsing through my recipe cards looking for my cornbread recipe that I got online months ago. I thought I had found it when I realized that it didn't call for sugar. It was another cornbread recipe that we had tried but didn't like as well. We like it a little sweeter. So I got on the computer and started looking for the long lost recipe. I looked and looked and couldn't find it. I was getting sad; so I went back to my recipe cards and I FOUND it! I was so happy. My whole family LOVES this recipe. It is the best cornbread I've ever tasted! We used to use Jiffy, which is great, but I love making things from scratch. I don't remember where I got the recipe, but here it is:

-Mix together....

-3 1/2 tsp baking powder

-1 cup flour

-1 cup cornmeal

-2/3 cup sugar

-1 tsp salt

-Mix with that.....

-1 egg

-1 cup milk

-1/3 cup vegtable oil

-Bake at 400* for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and you can stick a toothpick in, and it comes out clean....enjoy!!!

Hope everyone has a blessed evening!!

"You will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord. Jeremiah 29"12-14

It's Been A While....Lots Going On!

2010-06-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hello, All!!! How have you been??? Good, but busy here. Summer is here for me and my kiddos. The hubby is still hard at work. I feel so bad for him having to work in the heat. He's sure to drink lots of water, so not to get dehydrated. It's very important to drink lots of water.

I have been trying to keep the boys entertained. We have filled our little pool and they also love to play in the waterhose on the trampoline.

I have been using my clothesline so much this summer. I love it. I'm helping our earth as well as saving on our electric bill. I've also been keeping busy with our small garden. I'm so excited about it. It's getting bigger and bigger everyday. I'll post pics soon. This pic is of my homemade granola:) I was so very excited about making it. It is my first time making dry granola. I've made some chewy granola bars recently, but they didn't stay together very well. They were still very tasty though:)

This is the recipe in case you'd like to try it out: (It's very simple)

-3 cups old fashioned oats

-1/3 cup slivered almonds

-1/2 cup pine nuts

-1 cup dried fruit (I used cranberries and apricots)

-1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

-2 tbs brown sugar

-1 tsp vanilla

-2 melted butter

-Mix all together. Spray a cookie sheet, and spread the granola over the pan. Bake at 325*

-I took it out a few times and flipped it so it wouldn't burn. It was very delicious!

I've also been making dough for rolls and pizza dough and freezing them, and baking bread. I plan to make biscuits and pancakes to freeze as well. I'm trying to cut eating out altogether. I'm not big on it. But, times when I'm tired it seems easier to go and grab something that's already cooked. I hope I can do a little each day that helps me save money and makes me more appreciative of the things I have. Hope everyone has a blessed day.

~Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you hve, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

2010-03-31T08:27:00.000-07:00

We have the feeling of Spring here!!! Yay!! I'm so excited! I love this time of year. Warm weather, gardening, getting ready to use my clothesline again, flowers, baseball, and many other things.

I hope you are having some warm weather as well.

I am looking forward to Easter. There are so many things in this life that distract us, when we should be focusing on the one and only Jesus Christ and His amazing love and gifts to us...His children. He died for each one of us...and He rose again for each one of us. I hope we all take time and reflect on all the blessings from our Father. Think about what really matters in this life. Living for God...letting our light shine for Him. Showing others kindness...spending more time with the love of our lives....Jesus Christ!

I hope you all have a wonderful God-filled week.

Blessings~

~"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor My covenant of peace be removed," says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10

Farming On Faith Giveaway

2010-03-13T10:33:00.000-08:00

Farming On Faith blogger, Carrie, has an awesome giveaway going on! An amazing thermometer! It is very easy to use and has excellent and precise results. You can learn more about it on her blog http://farmingonfaith.blogspot.com/ , or here http://www.temporalscanner.com/ to find out more on this product.

It is very easy to enter for this giveaway...just check out Farming On Faith for more info. I'm sure you'll find other great reads on her blog as well.

Thank you and have a Blessed Day!

~The mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6

Blessings From My Kids

2010-03-12T07:14:00.000-08:00

I got a new dry erase board to help me with some school projects. My kids just love it. They've always loved to draw....and I think are great at it. I love their masterpeices!

One night, I was sitting at the computer and my youngest was sitting beside me drawing on the board. I looked over as he was finishing up and said, "What's that?" He told me it was a picture of Jesus dying on the cross...and the other men were the bad guys.

I just love how they think about God! I love knowing that my husband and I are teaching them about the most important person in life...our Savior! I love knowing they have Him on their mind! How innocent they are. It just makes my heart happy. I pray daily for my two blessings, that they will grow in Christ. My oldest one accepted Christ as his Savior earlier this year, and now I pray for my youngest. I have no doubt that he will accept Christ, when he is convicted by the Holy Spirit....when it is his time. I thank God for my family everyday....I am so blessed!

I will pray for your families as well....that we can all grow closer in Christ and be all He calls us to be for Him!

~Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children, and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2

Need Some Encouraging?

2010-02-24T11:38:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've been doing a lot of driving...to work and school, and wherever else I need to go:) My radio has many different music stations with different genres programed in...mostly country, classic rock, and Christian.

There are days when I need a little pick me up. I try to do a little bit of bible study everyday, but that doesn't always happen. So, when I'm in my car I will turn it to KLove Radio Station. It always lifts my spirits. I listen to the words the Christian artists sing and feel the Spirit at work. I can feel how much God loves me and my family....and everyone. I just wish some people knew how much God loves them and wants a relationship with them.

There are other positive things about KLove. They have people praying everyday. On their website there is a place to sign up for prayer request. I love when I hear them pray on the radio...I just sit and wonder how many of my brothers and sisters in Christ are bowing their head at that same moment, praying with them....lifting people up in their prayers. AMAZING!! They have a phone line where people can call in and share touching stories about how Christ has done His awesome work in their lives:) It always brightens my day! There are many other awesome things they do for the Lord....I encourage you to check out their website...I guarantee you will be encouraged too:) http://www.klove.com/

There's no such thing as perfect people~There's no such thing as a perfect life~So come as you are, broken and scarred~Lift up your heart~And be amazed~And be changed~By a PERFECT GOD!!!

~~Sung by Natalie Grant

~~You make me glad by your deeds, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of Your hands. Psalm 92:4

2010-02-22T12:47:00.000-08:00

~There are many people that blog, that knew of Hope. I met her a few months ago. She was the sweetest and strongest 14 year old girl I'd ever met. She had such a zest for life and didn't let her illness define her. Many of us got to know her through her Cancer Diary. Her mom eventually had to post for her because she was too weak, and we got to know her mom as well. We realized where Hope had gotten her strength. Her mom read her our thoughts daily. She said they brought her peace. She was so strong. You could see God's love shine through them both.

I miss her already...her bubbly, courageous, beautiful attitude for life. She and her mom knew she was in God's hands. Although, we will miss her....let's be thankful that our Dear Hope is in no more pain. She is with our Perfect, All-Healing Father. We will meet her again one day, when we are with our Amazing Father in Heaven.

Please continue to pray for Hope's family....that they may find the peace that only the Lord can give.

~~Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

~~The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

Winter Wonderland

2010-01-31T12:18:00.000-08:00

We had our Winter Wonderland!!!

Every year, I hope for one good snow. I don't even mind the ice....that means we get to stay home and spend our time enjoying our family. Even if the electricity goes out, we have two gas heaters that will keep us nice and toasty. I know others may not...I pray for those people, that they will stay warm.

We really enjoyed seeing the beautiful snow. We had some really yummy food for our cold days. One day for lunch we had tomato soup and grilled cheese and for supper we had fried deer meat, mashed taters, green beans, and bread. It was so good. I love to cook. Especially, when it's so cold. There's not much else to do....so I love to make our house smell yummy with food. I even baked a cake:)

The Lord blesses us with many seasons. I love them all. They each have a very special meaning to me. By the time winter is winding down, I'm very ready for spring. I love the thunderstorms, fresh flowers, green trees and grass. I also love summer...we love camping, grilling, swimming, and being outside. I use my clothesline all through the summer. Even when it rains. The rain is a natural softener....it makes your clothes very soft. Then comes fall....I LOVE the many colors of the leaves, the crisp air, drinking coffee outside, building fires, hayrides, and much more. The Lord is AMAZING!!! He makes the most beautiful things. I never want to take the little things we see in everyday life for granted. I am so blessed to experience these extraordinary things God has made. I know He is even more beautiful!!!

I wanted to share that my oldest child...KJ...got baptized last Sunday! We are so thankful and so happy for him. I've been praying for a while now for both my childrens' souls. I want them to know God. To have the most beautiful relationship with Him. To know that He is the most important. He was home from school one day and crawled in bed with me and told me he wanted to get baptized. (We had been talking about it for a few months now...on and off....and he had talked to our youth pastor as well.) And I told him he had to be saved first. He said how do you do that again? I told him all he had to do was ask Jesus into his heart. He said I did that last night in my bed! We talked about it a little more and then we talked to our pastor. A few weeks later he was baptized. It was such an amazing experience. I wasn't too suprised that he had done it on his own....that's just his little personality. He's very independent about some things. Now we continue to pray for his growth with Christ and for our youngest to be saved when it's his time.
I hope you all have a wonderful night.

When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life." Matthew 8:12

Thunderstorms

2010-01-21T12:55:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a while again...sorry. School is a lot more time consuming this semester....not to mention, a little more difficult. Prayers would be GREATLY APPRECIATED! Wednesday night I took the kids to church and I ended up sitting in my car writing a paper. Sad...I know...I wanted to go in, but I needed quiet time to write my paper. Praise the Lord I got it done!

We had some thunderstorms that night. I really love thunderstorms! Some people think it's so yucky outside when it's raining, but I find beauty in it. Don't get me wrong....I like sunny days too. (Especially when it rains for more than three days). My hubby and I took our kiddos to the lake last summer for a week's vacation. We all love the lake, camping, and nature. It rained ALL week long. Seriously.....ALL week long. It was nice that we were together with no other distractions though. There were maybe two days when it would clear up for a few hours and we would grab our stuff and swim...then the rain would come back. We were going to stay in a tent, but a friend lent us his pop-up camper...which was really nice, because the rain would've flooded us out! It was so nice to hear the rain on the roof. I remember when I was little hearing the sounds of rain on a tin roof...I love it! Anyway....my point was this....even though the rain keeps you from doing things outside that you want, I like to look at the positive side. You get to cuddle up and watch a movie with your family, you get to sit outside in the carport and watch the rain....I think rainy days are beautiful days too! God made rainy days, just like He made sunny days. I enjoy both...especially when I get to stay inside on the rainy days:)

I hope everyone has a great day! Remember to thank the Lord for all your many blessings!

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

2010-01-04T12:24:00.000-08:00

It's been a bit since I've posted anything. Hope everyone is having a great New Year's so far. It is so cold here. We even have a chance of snow this week:) Yay!! We love snow. I had to go shopping this morning for some milk and flour. You know how crazy the store can be when colder weather is around the corner. It was really busy to say the least.

I've been cleaning alot. Trying to get things back in order from Christmas. I love Christmas....it truely is the most wonderful time of the year:)

Coffee is on and I'm making two loaves of bread. I would really like to make some biscuits and pancakes to freeze. Does anyone know how long they last in the freezer, being homemade?

I better go now....hope everyone has a blessed day!

"How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you." Psalm 31:19

2009-12-30T16:19:00.000-08:00

Hello....no it hasn't snowed here:( This is a picture from last year. Just remembering how much fun we had playing in the snow. We are really hoping that it snows sometime here in the New Year.

Our family had the best Christmas ever. We spent all our time with family. We stayed up late, watched Christmas movies, cooked, ate yummy food, played games, and just had the greatest time spending time together. We are so truely blessed. We thank God for our family and friends everyday.

Tonight, the hubby and I are in the kitchen cooking fish, shrimp, fries, and hushpuppies in our new fry daddy. It's gonna be so good. Well, actually he's in there cookin....I'll be in there in a minute:)

I just wanted to say I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas, filled with lots of memories...and I hope you all have a very Happy New Year as well. We'll be ringing our New Year in with some of our best friends...when the New Year comes in, we'll say a prayer...starting the year out right...and ask God to bless and be with us the New Year and to help us become closer to Him. I know our New Year will be blessed as long as we have our Lord and Savior.

Lots of Blessings to you....with Love, in Christ!!!

"I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39

Happy Birthday Jesus!!

2009-12-23T19:36:00.000-08:00

Luke 2:7-14

"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Let us all remember the "Reason for the Season." It is the most wonderful gift of all...our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was sent here as a beautiful baby....sent to save the world! What an amazing gift. We owe our lives to Him. As you spend time with your family and friends this Christmas season, remember the reason we are celebrating. Words cannot express how much He means to me and my family. He is our Father, Protector, Healer, Forgiver, Redeemer, and so much more. We have life because of Him. Let's give Him our life...now and always!

Have a most wonderful Merry Christmas!!

Prayers for Hope

2009-12-22T09:38:00.000-08:00

This dear, sweet young lady is Hope. She has been diagnosed with cancer. She is such a brave 14 year old. She is a fighter and an inspiration to me. Her name suits her...she is full of Hope! She has been through so much in her life so far and shows what it means to be faithful. She believes in our Lord Jesus Christ and in the power of prayer.

Edie at http://richgifts.blogspot.com/ made a button for our friend Hope, and it would be awesome if you would like to take it, so we can get as many people as possible to pray for this amazing young lady. She is beautiful inside and out!

Here is her blog... http://hopescancerdiary.blogspot.com/ I know she would love for you to stop by and leave an encouraging comment. Thank you so much! Have a very blessed day!

~May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

An Early Christmas

2009-12-19T20:57:00.000-08:00

We had an early Christmas at my Dad's house today...we had the best time. I love getting together with my family...eating, talking, playing, watching movies...eating some more:) We are so blessed to have one another. I love my family. It keeps getting bigger and I'm so glad. I love having a big family. We always have such a great time together. I love that we're so comfortable around each other...we can just be silly and laugh and make great memories!

We watched "White Christmas" and it is such a great movie, with a great happy ending.

We had so much food and opened gifts...the yougins' played hard all day. I am so thankful to the Lord for blessing me with such a wonderful family. I wouldn't trade them...I think they're keepers:)

I hope all of you have a great Christmas this year and make lots of memories...cherish these times with family and remember what this season is about. Our amazing, wonderful Creator.... Our Heavenly Father. I'm so blessed beyond measure to have Him in my life!

~Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57

A Mother's Rule of Life

2009-12-16T07:37:00.000-08:00

Good morning everyone!! We are back from our Dallas trip. We went to visit my hubbys' sister and his brother-in-law and all our nieces and nephews. We had the best time! We don't get to see each other very often, but when we do, we pick up right where we left off. I am so thankful for the wonderful family they are and the relationship we have with them.

I've been trying to keep up my bible study every morning after the kids go to school. It's going great. I feel so good when the first thing I do in the morning, is spend time with God. I've been wanting to do better on my organization in our household. Sometimes it's easier than other times. My sis-in-law gave me a book to read and to help with this. She's read it and said it was a big help in getting started. It's called A Mother's Rule of Life. I read the first two chapters this morning. I really think it's a great book and will help me in starting to be more organized. It is about a real mother and housewife who homeschools and tries to run a household. She tells how she became so overwhelmed and how the Lord helped her in her journey as a mother and a wife....and how He wants us to serve Him. I'm really excited about this book!! Today, I will begin my making a daily, weekly, and monthly schedule of all the things needed to be done in our home. This is my first goal. It will start from the time we wake up, till the time we go to bed. I believe this is a start to a great way to become more organized. I believe the most important is to remember to give ourselves and our day to God first. He is the most important priority in our lives. Don't forget to talk to Him daily...when we spend time with God, we know what His will is for our lives.

I hope you all have a blessed day!! Isaiah 9:6 "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Love This Lord's Day!

2009-12-06T12:38:00.001-08:00

Today has been a blessed day! We had church this morning...we all came home and cleaned up the house..(it was getting a little messy...it always does with 3 boys in the house:)), and ate lunch.

I also made 2 loaves of bread for the week. Love the smell of bread baking! It's so good!

Tonight after night church, our Sunday School is having a Christmas party! Can't wait to spend time with great church family!

Today, I heard a great verse..."By this will, we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once and for all." Hebrews 10:10

How awesome is that? God sent Jesus to die for us on a cross, rise again, and save us...once and for all! When we accept Jesus in our hearts...we are His for all eternity! What an amazing Father we have! He showed us how much He loves us, by giving Himself as a perfect sacrifice. Let's show Him how much we love Him. I pray that you know God as your personal Savior...now and forever. It's an amazing Love!

2009-12-03T06:55:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting here drinking my morning coffee. It's another cold day. I think I look pretty silly. I'm in my Christmas pajama pants, a sweatshirt, and a scarf! LOL! I put the scarf on when I took the kids to school and it's just so warm, I didn't take it off:) I love scarves.

Anyway...back to my coffee....I love coffee. I love it iced, hot, or warm. I also will drink it black...preferably if I have something sweet to eat it with. I also love having creamer in it. My hubbys' favorite creamer is vanilla. I will try any creamer. Right now I have vanilla spiced rum. However, this morning I wanted some vanilla and there was only a tiny splash left...I wanted more. So I got some milk and vanilla extract and poured it in a cup and mixed it together. It turned out pretty good.

Then, while I was holding my little jar of vanilla I remembered I found a recipe for homemade vanilla extract on one of the other blogs I read. I thought it was a great idea and I think I'm going to try it out. Vanilla extract is pretty spendy....especially if you get the natural kind.

So here it is...from http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/:

6 Vanilla Beans

6 (4 oz jars)

24 oz. vodka

"I purchased the vanilla beans and recycled glass cork top bottles from Mountain Rose Herbs. The vanilla beans are sold by the 1 oz (which is 6-9 beans) for $9.00, making it about $1-1.50 per bean. The jars were $1.60 each. I purchased the vodka at my local liquor store for $10 for 750 ml (which I figured out is about 26 oz). So you are looking at less than $5 per 4 oz jar, compared to easily double that amount at your local health food store. And with reusable glass jars, you can save even more with future batches (if you are making it for yourself, that is). The beans smelled fabulous! I cut them down the center with scissors and then into 2 inch pieces and put them in the jars. I then filled each jar with vodka and put the top on! That’s it! You must steep them for 8 weeks. Once you have used half the jar, you can refill the jar to the top with more vodka to stretch it even more! Make sure to make a note of this when you send it for gifts. You can also save room to sweeten with a 3/4 tsp of rum per bottle after it has steeped."

Hope you enjoy this recipe. I'll try to start working on it soon and let you know how it turns out. I bet you'll like the blog "passionate homemaking" as well. She has lots of interesting things on there.

Hope you all have a wonderful day!

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal." Isaiah 26:3-4

2009-12-02T14:22:00.000-08:00

Rudolph is coming on t.v. tonight...I remember when I was a kid and couldn't wait till the annual Christmas movies would be aired on t.v. This is one of my favorite childhood Christmas movies. There are soooo many others, I can't name them all. My hubby and I did count the amount of Christmas movies the other night....we have 26!! We still don't have all the ones I want. I find them at local consignment shops and good will. I love some bargains:)

It really feels like winter outside! I love it...mostly when I'm able to stay inside:) This morning is the 2nd day I've gotten up early with my hubby...I say early, it was 6:30 to make coffee and homemade biscuits. I usually don't get up till 7:40 and the kiddos have to be at school by 8...LOL! We're always rushing in the mornings. I'm a big procrastinator......at least when it comes to getting out of bed!

I've been doing some reading in Phillipians the last few days. I know what an amazing God we have...but I'm still amazed when I'm reading His word and realize He wanted me to read those particular verses at that particular time....I love that feeling!!

Paul talks about how he's torn between 2 desires...one, wanting to live and the other wanting to be with Christ in Heaven. Sometimes I feel the same way. I love my family, friends, and the many blessings God gives me....on the other hand, how amazing would it be to be in the presence of God!! No worries....just worshipping and spending time with Him for all eternity!! I know I'll be there someday...and I look forward to that day....in the meantime I'll live my best for Him.

But, Paul also makes a good point. While we are here on this earth, we can be fruitful for Christ. We can let others see Him through us. That's what we are here to do. Sometimes I get caught up in all the other things I have going on in my life such as: being a mom, a wife, going to school, taking care of a household...that I forget what my main purpose is here on this earth. I wish things could slow down sometimes so we can do what we need to do for God...spend time with Him...learning what His word wants us to do. We have the power to do that! I think it just takes us prioritizing what's in our lives. God should be at the first of that list. He came here and died a criminal's death to save us! What an amazing gift! I know I'm going to try harder to let God know what He means to me....He is my All, my Protector, my Forgiver, my Shelter, and so much more. He is my Father!

Hope everyone has a wonderful night! Thank you for stopping by!

Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

2009-12-01T05:17:00.000-08:00

Good morning!! I got up early with my hubby this cold, wonderful morning and decided to catch up on everybodys blog. I've been gone this last weekend for a late Thanksgiving and haven't been able to read the blogs. I always love reading all about everyones week. Hope you all had a blessed Thanksgiving.

Christmas season is here!! It's officially December. I love this time of year...don't you? Celebrating our wonderful, amazing gift of Christ and all the blessings He brings us, decorating, and lots of baking and cooking.~sigh~ It truely is the most wonderful time of the year!

It is a very cold morning here. It got down to freezing last night. I'm sure when the kids wake up and see white for the first time over everything...they'll say..."Mommy it snowed!" I love their innocence! I'm really enjoying my coffee this morning!

Hope you all have a very blessed day! I have to get kiddos up and get ready myself for school. Take time today to reflect on the many blessings God has sent your way!

The mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6

2009-11-23T06:41:00.000-08:00

I don't have much time to do a long post...I have to go to class today and hopefully finish my math class:) I just wanted to say I hope you all have a wonderfully, blessed day!! Take time to reflect on all we have to be thankful for...all the blessings Christ gives us daily. What an amazing Father we have. Take some time and spend it with Him.

~God's divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3

~God saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renwal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:5-7

~Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20

~"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10

2009-11-16T18:15:00.000-08:00

Today is my hubby's 28th Birthday. I am so blessed to have him as my best friend and my wonderful husband. We have been together for 11 years this year...dating and all. We began dating right before his 16th birthday. Wow...what a long time. Here we are all these years later...happy as we've ever been. We owe this to our amazing Father....our foundation! When you put Christ throughout your life and your family, you will be blessed. He is with you every step of the way. We owe it all to Him!!

Tonight, the kids and I went and picked him out a birthday gift and card. We had fun trying to agree on what Daddy would love. I fixed him one of his favorite suppers and then made homemade chocolate chip cookies with ice cream for his dessert. We made him close his eyes to bring in his gift. He loved it...a big new tool box to keep all his tools in. We love surprising Daddy.

He is the love of my life. I couldn't ask for a better man for a husband and for the father of our children. He takes such good care of us and only has great plans for us as a family. God has truely blessed us! We have grown so much together. We strive each and every day to become closer to our awesome Father, each other, and our family. We want to be the family God wants us to be. Thank you honey for who you are and all you do. We love you so much and always will!

The Lord said, "I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just." Genesis 18:19

2009-11-14T10:22:00.000-08:00

Today we are going to my Uncle John and Aunt Kimmie's house for an early Thanksgiving Dinner. I'm so excited. I love getting together with my family and just eating yummy home cooked food and spending time together. It is my FAVORITE thing to do. I love my family so much and love making lots more memories to cherish forever.

I have been busy in the kitchen this morning. When we woke up, my hubby and I cooked breakfast together. Homemade pancakes, with bacon, fried eggs, and homemade toast. So good. Then after I let my food settle I started my homemade rolls and chocolate chip cookies to take to dinner. I have my Christmas music playing as well:) I love this time of the year. It's truly is the best in my book.

We have a big family and lots of kids. We all have such a great time together. There are a few family members who aren't with us anymore....my pappaw and my great mammaw. Even though they aren't here, we never forget them. We always have the precious memories we shared with them. I hope you all have a great weekend and remember to take time and thank our precious Lord for so many blessings we have.

"Be joyful always; pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 16-18

2009-11-11T11:21:00.000-08:00

I've been doing my bible study in the mornings after I take the kids to school. It is my quiet time...the perfect time to set aside just for me and God. I have enjoyed it very much. Today is my 3rd day...I already feel closer to Him. That is my goal. I want to be as close to my God as I can be. He will guide and help me to be the child, wife, mother, and friend He wants me to be. The last two days I have been reading out of 2 Peter. Both days I sat my bible down with the pages opened to 2 Peter so I wouldn't lose my spot and both days I picked it up and it was on 1 Thessalonians. The first day I didn't really think much about it, but when it was on the same place the second day...it got me to thinking....the Lord must want me to read this. So I did. The title on Chapter 1 is Thanksgiving. What a great time to read on Thanksgiving. 1 Thess. 1:2 says, "We always thank God for all of you, remembering you constantly in our prayers." God spoke to me through that verse. One, we need to be in constant prayer....talking to God as if He is right here...which He is. When we are close to God, we are where He wants us to be in our everyday life. Two, always thank God for the many undeserved blessings in our lives. We have everything good because of the Father. I think sometimes we get too caught up in things and forget to remember the simple things in life. The things we shouldn't take for granted....God and His amazing gifts, family, friends, trees, squirrels chasing each other around the yard, watching your kids play nicely outside (when they think no one is watching)...every good thing comes from God. I want to do better for Him. When I am close to God, I know everything will be okay because He is always with me.
I'll leave you with this verse also from 1 Thess. 3:12-13....And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love for one another and for everyone, just as we also do for you. May He make yours hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints. Amen.
Let's remember to show our love for others...for everyone...then they will see God in us.

2009-11-09T04:55:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry it's been a while since I've blogged. Me and the fam have been sick. Not the flu thank the Lord...just stomach virus and bronchitis. Thankfully now we are on the mend. Me and a friend had a yard sale this weekend. We're trying to clear some things out and make life a little simpler in our homes. It was a beautiful weekend to do so. This morning we will be busy getting ready to go back to school this week. We are really looking forward to Thanksgiving Break. It's only a few weeks away. Yay!! I love Thanksgiving....spending time with all my family and eating that delicious food! It's the best!

Our sermon at church yesterday really made me realize something....I need to spend more quiet time with my Lord. He blesses us with so many things and I want to be closer to Him. It's so easy to get caught up in this busy life....but I always think about the bigger picture...we are here for HIM....to worship Him and live for Him....in the end, He's all that matters. He died for us! What an amazing love! I'm gonna try harder to spend more quiet time with Him and live a life that is pleasing to Him. I want to be more kind to others, so that they will see God in me. I want Him to get the glory.

I'm so glad to be back on here....hopefully it won't be so long next time. Hope everyone has a blessed week and remember to thank God for His wonderful, amazing blessings!

2009-10-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up with a terrible migraine....at least that's what I'm hoping it is. I took the kids to school and decided I wasn't going to be able to drag myself to my classes. I took a tylenol pm and tried to go back to sleep. It took about an hour before I finally did. I slept pretty much all day until it was time to go get the kiddos. Then I dragged myself and 3 boys to walmart to get some soup. Do you have a favorite soup when you're sick? My all time favorite soup is chicken noodle. When I was little and sick, my mammaw would make me some steaming hot chicken noodle soup and crackers with some sprite or gatorade. (only the orange kind....that's my favorite) So I decided I needed some. I also love chicken and rice soup. I haven't had it in so long and decided I wanted some of that too. It was very yummy. I feel a little better. My headache is gone. I'm hoping it was just a migraine, because I really don't want the nasty flu. I don't want my kids to get sick either. I would really appreciate prayers. I have too many things to do....it would be difficult being sick. I'm gonna go....I need to get the kids ready for church. Have a great night and I pray you all stay well too. Blessings.

As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a sheild for all who take refuge in Him. 2 Samuel 22:31

Recipes

2009-10-26T10:57:00.000-07:00

Of course I'm not Grandma, but I love Grandmas' food....so today I thought it would be neat for us to post some really easy, home-cooked recipes. I need some different things to cook. I love to cook, especially this time of year, and I would love to share some. I really love crock pot recipes....you just throw them in, frozen and all, and by the end of the day it's done. So let's see what you've got. You can put as many as you want. It can be anything from entrees to dessert.

I found this poem and thought it was a great read....Have a blessed day:)

Heaven's Grocery Store
I was walking down life's highway a long time ago. One day I saw a sign that read "Heaven's Grocery Store". As I got a little closer, the door came open wide.When I came to myself, I was standing just inside. I saw a host of angels. They were standing everywhere. One handed me a basket and said, "My child, please shop with care." Everything a Christian needed was in that Grocery Store. All you couldn't carry, you could come back the next day for. First, I got some PATIENCE; LOVE was in the very same row. Further down was UNDERSTANDING, you needed it wherever you go. I got a box or two of WISDOM, a bag or two of FAITH. I just couldn't miss the HOLY SPIRIT, for He was all over the place!! I stopped to get some STRENGTH and COURAGE to help me run this race. By then my basket was getting full but...I remembered I needed some GRACE! I didn't forget SALVATION, for SALVATION was free. So I tried to get enough of that to save both you and me. Then I started up to the counter to pay my grocery bill, for I thought I had everything to do my Master's will. As I wind up the aisle I saw PRAYER and I just had to put that in. For I knew when I stepped outside, I would run right into sin. PEACE and JOY were plentiful; they were on the last shelf. SONGS and PRAISES were hanging near, so I just helped myself. Then I said to the angel, "How much do I owe?" He just smiled and said, "Just take them everywhere you go." Again I smiled at him and said, "How much do I owe?" He smiled again and said......"My child,

JESUS PAID YOUR BILL A LONG TIME AGO!"
*

Ask, and it shall be given you; Seek, and ye shall find; Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

Matthew 7:7

2009-10-23T14:33:00.000-07:00

My Daddy's 50th Birthday is today....We did have a surprise birthday party for him the other day. He had so many family members and old friends show up....can't you tell how surprised he was! I love it! He didn't suspect a thing. He had a great time catching up with friends and spending time with family as well. I love him so much and am very thankful to have him as my daddy. We are so much alike. Love the Lord, country, simple life, old times, love big band music, being with family, home-cooked food, coffee, and much more. I am so blessed that God gave me to him to take care of as his daughter. He is a great father and I will cherish our times together. Love you Da Da..(he loves when I call him that.) Happy Birthday!

The Lord said, "I have chosen him so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. Genesis 18:19

2009-10-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

Here are our pumpkins this year. They're a little spooky, but the boys love them. Carving pumpkins is a tradition that we will carry on for a very long time. This is what they look like at night on our porch with the candles inside them. However they are starting to wilt already:( I am going to have to get some more to decorate. I love decorating. This time of year there are so many ways to decorate with Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas on the way. I love it. After we cleaned out the pumpkins I made pumpkin seeds. They are good and good for you. We had a great family day together. Here are a few recipes from Our Best Bites...Have a blessed day.

Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
From ourbestbites.com

1/2 C pumpkin seeds, clean and dry, 1/2 T butter, 1/4 t olive oil, 1/4 t celery salt, 1/4 t onion, 1/8 garlic, 1/8 paprik, a pinch cayenne, Kosher salt

Homemade Pumpkin Puree
From ourbestbites.com

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Slice pumpkin in half and remove stem. You can cut it in quarters if you want, or just leave it halved. It doesn't really matter. I cut mine in quarters so you could see the insides better.

Step 2: Using a spoon, scrape out all of the stringy stuff and the seeds. If you want to toast the seeds make sure to save all this junk in a bowl and not the trash can! You'll be left with just the pumpkin rind and the flesh as shown here:

Step 3: Spray a foil-lined baking sheet with non-stick spray. Place your pumpkin cut-side down on the sheet.

Step 4: Cook pumpkin in your 350 degree oven for 50-60 minutes or until it's tender when pierced with a fork. When done, remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Use a spoon to scrape out the flesh and discard the skin/rind. It should be super soft and easy to scoop right out, kind of like scooping out an avocado.

Step 6: Place pumpkin pulp in a food processor and process until smooth. (Or you can just mash it with a fork or potato masher) Now. If your pumpkin is on the dry side, you can add a little water (or juice depending on what you're making) at this point to get the consistency you want. My pumpkin was dry and I was aiming for the consistency of canned pumpkin so I slowly drizzled in about 1/4 cup of water until it had the right feel. If it's too moist, just put your puree in a strainer to let some of the moisture seep through.

At this point you can use it in any recipe that calls for pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin.

The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made. Psalm 145:9

2009-10-15T06:35:00.000-07:00

So I've still been doing a lot of baking. I made 3 loaves of bread the other day and it was gone the day after. I know that's a lot of bread, but we love some bread. So, since we've eaten so much I decided to get some whole wheat flour....to make it a little healthier. I think it's gonna turn out great. I usually make mine in the bread maker, but I recently got this recipe from "Farming on Faith" and it was amazing. I love it so much. So, I'll probably make some this afternoon or tomorrow. I usually make about a loaf every other day....but with the way we're eating it, I would like to try and make a little more. I've also thought about making some loaves and wrapping them in pretty paper and giving them as Christmas gifts. I think my family and friends would love it. You can always use bread, and there's nothing like homemade bread.
Also, yesterday my hubby finished painting our living room. I am sooo excited. This summer while I was away at church camp he and the kiddos suprised me with re-texturing the walls in the living room and hallway. So since then there have been no pictures on my walls....it was driving me a little bit crazy. I love decor....so not having anything up until we painted was hard. But thank the Lord, it is now finished and looks great! I will soon be putting my pics and decor back on the walls and it will look as cozy as ever.
I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good. I will praise you in the presence of your saints. Psalm 52:9

2009-10-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

I love pictures like these. Beautiful fall leaves falling from the trees. Today was a chilly day. I absolutely love it. I love this time of year. It is probably my favorite as far as seasons....but I do love Christmas time too. I'm hoping it will stay like this and then the leaves will be turning their wonderfully vibrant colors around here. They are a little bit already. Driving around I see colorful spots on the trees where the foliage is setting in.

The kids picked out a couple of pumpkins to set on the front porch the other day. I had to explain to them that they weren't the ones we were going to carve, they were just for decoration right now. We will soon go to the pumpkin patch and pick out about 3 or 4 large pumpkins and carve them together. It's one of our favorite things to do as a family. For now, I've gotten all my Halloween and even some Thanksgiving decorations out and have set them up around the house. The house is filled with smells from Hazelnut Cream and Pumpkin Spice candles, fresh baking bread, cookies, and yummy dinners in the crock pot. I am so blessed. Thank you Lord.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Ephesians 1:3

2009-10-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a little poem that my Dad sent me. I love it. It reminds me of when I was little and my Great Mammaw would be in the kitchen cookin for her family. She was the best cook. I loved being there with all my family around spending time together....I love the simple life.

I don't think our kids know what an apron is. The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath, because she only had a few, it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and they used less material, but along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven. It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears. From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven. When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids. And when the weather was cold, grandma wrapped it around her arms. Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove. Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron. From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls. In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees. When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds. When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner. It will be a long time before someone invents something that will; replace that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes. Send this to those who would know, and love, the story about Grandma's aprons. Or it can be a good history lesson for those that have no idea how the apron played a part in our lives. REMEMBER: Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw. They would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron. I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron. But Love !!
Without Him, I am nothing, but with Him 'I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me'. Philippians 4:13.

2009-09-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

Friendship

John 15:13

Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."

I love this verse because it is one of many that shows how much God loved and loves us. He laid down His life for us, so that we may live.

The Lord has also given us people in this world that we are so blessed to know....and my best friend Catherine is one of those people. I am so blessed to know her. We have been friends for about 11 years, and of course with any friendship we've had our moments of ups and downs; but our friendship is one that I will cherish forever. I truely believe that God has given us one another to keep us steady and to help us get through anything life brings us. Of course we understand this kind of friendship because we have God in our lives and understand what it means to be a friend, and to be the kind of friend God wants us to be for each other and also for others. Friends are a wonderful gift from God.

Everyone can have this kind of friendship with God. All you have to do is know Him as your personal Savior. "God our Savior saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy spirit." Titus 3:5 I pray today that others will recieve this perfect and precious gift, and have a friend.....a true friend for life.

2009-09-15T16:59:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this time of year. The leaves starting to change, the cooler nights, all we need now is cooler days. I got out my fall decor the other day and started putting some of it up. I need to get more though. Every year, I try to add to my collection of decorations for each season. I love to decorate and make my home feel as cozy as I can. My favorite thing to do is drink coffee with my yummy creamer and watch a good family movie with my hubby and kids.
This pic was taken at the pumpkin patch last year. I hope it is cooler this year than it was then. We love the pumpkin patch and go every year to pick out some big pumpkins to carve together. We always find the cutest designs. This year along with carving, the kids and I have decided we are going to paint the pumpkins and put cute faces on them too. I thought that would be a fun craft we could do together.
We are already watching "Hocus Pocus"....our favorite Halloween movie, along with "Winnie the Pooh...Boo to you Too", and "Pooh's Heffalump Halloween Movie." The kids love helping me decorate too. I love looking forward to the seasons as they come. Each one is special to me. I hope you can find something special in each one as well. God has given us beauty in each one.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17

2009-08-19T15:54:00.000-07:00

School is back and in full swing. I started back Monday and the kiddos started back today. So far so good. They were a little nervous at first...but so was I...by the time I picked them up, they were happy and had a good first day back. Hopefully everyday will go good for my babies. I want them to only have positive school experiences. I still can't wait till I homeschool. That means I will have to finish school...and I'm praying that goes smoothly as well.

One reason I love that school is back in session is because that reminds me that fall is on the way. I love the cooler weather....the nights get cooler first and then the leaves change colors and then the days get a little cooler. That means it's time to get fall stuff out. I love it. It's one of my favorite times of the year....and it's not far away.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.

Psalm 37:7

2009-08-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been doing a lot of baking....bread, cookies and also doing a lot of cooking in my crockpot. I love the crockpot...you just stick all your ingredients in there and at the end of the day, they're ready to eat...a hot and delicious meal. These are my sugar cookies I made from scratch. The only cookie cutter I had was a gingerbread man. The kids loved it though. Then a cute idea I saw was to add chocolate to them. So they had "muddy feet". The kids thought that was the coolest thing. I love cooking things from scratch. It reminds me of my great mammaw. She was one of the best cooks. I can still see her in her apron, in the kitchen, cooking for the whole family....whether it was Sunday lunch, Easter, Thanksgiving or Christmas. I want my kids to carry these memories with them, just like I do. They also love being in the kitchen with me helping with anything they can. I think they are great little cooks and I want them to remember these special times we had together.

Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2

2009-08-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a long while again...that's life. I don't have a lot of time on the computer....so I'll catch you up....

We recently went on vacation for a week....a very wet week!! It rained everyday. We were camping:) Needless to say, we spent a lot of time in the camper. Thank God we got plenty of rest and family time in!

Now that we are back I've been preparing myself for starting school. I'll be going to school for Nursing. The kids will also be starting school. I guess I'm excited and nervous at the same time. It'll be weird not being here with my kids, like I have been pretty much all summer.

Today was a busy day.....ran some errands, went grocery shopping and finally mowed the yard. It was really thick and tall. My hubby and I took turns. We are a great team! Afterwards we came in and got cleaned up and then I started supper. We had yummy spaghetti and homemade garlic toast. I say homemade because I made the bread the day before and just added butter and garlic powder and popped them in the oven. It was really good....and for dessert we had homemade ice cream. The hubby and kiddos added chocolate syrup to theirs and I added fresh peaches. It was really good. I love having wholesome meals and most of all using natural ingredients. It's very easy to make homemade ice cream. Here's how we do it....

-Add in a blender...

-Ice

-Milk

-Sugar

-Vanilla (not too much)

-Evaporated milk

-Then you blend and enjoy

I just eyeball the ingredients and my hubby is the taste tester:)

We had a very fulfilling day. I'll try not to be so long in posting again...have a great night.

Because of His great love for us, God, wo is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions-it is by grace you have been saved.

Ephesians 2:4-5

2009-06-30T09:25:00.000-07:00

We were at the lake celebrating my neices birthday. She is so beautiful...and of course my babies are too. (okay they are all my babies) We had a great time with family that day. It was very hot and it was a great day cooling off in the water. We had a picnic with sandwiches and chips and then of course as you can see...cake....she loves sweets! Hope this reminds you of all the cherished memories with your family!

God will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. Job 8:21

2009-06-22T19:34:00.000-07:00

Here is my wonderful hubby finishing up my clothesline. I am soooo happy. He did an excellent job. I can't wait to use it tomorrow. It is a great way to conserve energy by using the beautiful warm air God has given us to dry our clothes naturally. The kids were playing in the sprinkler while their daddy was hard at work. It was a perfectly great way to keep cool on this hot day.

After he got done with his work he grilled some delicious steaks and I made fried potatoes, green beans, mac n cheese and wheat rolls; and for dessert we had cheesecake...yummy. We had a great night together.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.

Ephesians 1:3

2009-06-11T19:52:00.000-07:00

So, I've been kind of busy. That's life around here. Summer has began and I've been hangin out with my family. I've been trying to do things more simple. I finally got some Dr. Bronner's All Natural Soap and with that I'm going to make shampoo and washing detergent and maybe even some dish washing soap. Hopefully in the next few weeks my hubby will be putting my clothesline up. I can't wait. We just want to live life as simple as we can. We feel that this is a way we can be closer to God. Just to enjoy the simplest things in life.
A few other things I've picked up are some Tea Tree Oil for uses like scrapes, burns, bug buster, cold sores and so many more. Here is a link for all it's uses and how to use them....http://www.theherbsplace.com/Tea_Tree_Oil_Uses_sp_153.html. I also got some pure Cocoa Butter. I use it for dry skin. ( I recently got a sunburn and am peeling...so it works great for that.)
Hopefully tomorrow I will start making some of my new natural household recipes and when I know how they work I will posts them for you.
Have a blessed day!

God's divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by His own glory and goodness.
2 Peter 1:3

2009-05-13T08:58:00.001-07:00

This is one of the days we went with our friends to the 40 Days For Life Campaign. These are my boys praying for the babies. They have been educated a little on abortion. It's sad that they have to know about this, but I feel it is important for them to understand that there is evil in the world and for them to know ways to stay away from it.....prayer and staying close to our Heavenly Father. They knew that I was going every week to pray for the babies and they wanted to understand why the babies needed so much prayer. Their prayers are so innocent and I know they truely mean what they pray for and I also believe God hears their prayers.

Luke 18:15-17 Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”

It is so important to teach children the ways of the Lord. For them to know it's okay to talk to God daily and that He is always with them.

We had a great experience praying for the babies with other brothers and sisters in Christ. It is important for Christians to stand together for what we believe God wants us to do.

2009-05-12T07:44:00.000-07:00

So today I wanted to share a message that is important to me. We went over some of it at church Sunday and it is titled "In Praise of a Capable Wife." It was a great message that has to do with how God wants women to be as a wife. I hope you enjoy it and I hope it inspires all of us to be who God wants us to be.

Proverbs 31:10-31

Who can find a capable wife? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will not lack anything good. She rewards him with good, not evil, all the days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with willing hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from far away. She rises while it is still night and provides food for her household and portions for her servants. She evaluates a field and buys it; she plants a vineyard with her earnings. She draws on her strength and reveals that her arms are strong. She sees that her profits are good, and her lamp never goes out at night. She extends her hands to the spinning staff, and her hands hold the spindle. Her hands reach out to the poor, and she extends her hands to the needy. She is not afraid for her household when it snows, for all in her household are doubly clothed. She makes her own bed coverings; her clothing is fine linen and purple. Her husband is known at the city gates, where he sits among the elders of the land. She makes and sells linen garments;she delivers belts to the merchants. Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and loving instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the activities of her household and is never idle. Her sons rise up and call her blessed. Her husband also praises her: Many women are capable, but you surpass them all! Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised. Give her the reward of her labor, and let her works praise her at the city gates.

2009-05-11T15:02:00.000-07:00

So here's all my babies.....the boys are mine and the girl is my neice. I love them so much. I had a great Mother's Day weekend. My hubby came home from working out of town. We all miss him so much. It's like a part of us is missing when we are not all together. I was mowing the grass (because we finally got a break from the rain) and he come home and finished mowing the backyard. Then we got cleaned up and went to KJ's ballgame. It was fun. I saw some of my close friends (which they are basically my family) and we had a great time cheering for the team. (We won...Yay) As long as they have fun and try hard, it doesn't matter to us if they win or lose. They really played a great game. We had supper at the ball field and afterwards we came home and snacked and got the kids cleaned up and went to bed. Saturday we woke up and Kev mowed the front yard and finished just before the rain came. Thankfully our entire yard is mowed:) (It was getting so long because we haven't had any dry weather) Then we all sat outside under the carport and watched the storm. It hailed too. I haven't seen hail in such a long time. It was pretty cool. Then we went to WalMart and got some "homecooked" food from the deli and ate a great lunch. That night we went out to eat at The Cracker Barrell with some of my family. (We love that place) We went to celebrate Mother's Day for my mammaw and the other mom's. I had a great time being with my family. Afterwards we came home and got ready for bed. Sunday we got up and my wonderful hubby got us breakfast and I got the sweetest card. We went to church and had a great sermon on what a mom is supposed to be and afterwards they took me out to eat at the Whippet. It was soooo good. Then we came home and I took a nap because I had to work that night. We had a great weekend being together. Family is so important and I am so thankful and blessed that the Lord has given us each other.

2009-05-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

Ilove this pic of my boys takin a nap at the lake. We love the lake and have been ready to go since January. We plan to go for 8 days this summer as our vacation and of course we're gonna go some just for the weekends. On this particular trip we went with our best friends. We do a lot with them. They are a very big part of our lives. Our kids are the best of friends....they actually think they are cousins. In our eyes they are. Family doesn't mean you have to be blood related. We are family and love each other like a family. I thank God for all of my family. We are so blessed.

2009-05-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

This is me and my hubby. We've been together for almost 11 years and have been married for almost 8 years. We are high school sweethearts. We have been through so much together....and really did a lot of growing up together. We are truely the best of friends. Aside from God, he is my everything. Such a loving husband and father and works hard to set an example for our family and teaches us as the Head of our family how God wants us to live. Our God is the reason we are together and have such a strong relationship and will for many years to come. Our belief is that marriage is a commitment to one another and to God....and as long as you put God first in everything you do.....everything will be okay. Of course there will be trials in everyones life, but when you have faith in the Lord, He will give you all the strength you need.