According To HIS Power

Blogging here again.... :-)

2011-11-30T20:49:00.002-06:00

Well, I've decided to stay here for awhile...LOL I will try to be back in a day or two and put up our Christmas pictures..blogging just feels so weird now since I haven't done it in so long (consistently) but I REALLY miss it so I am trying.. :)

Anyway,

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

~Jules~

I couldn't have said it better myself...so I won't....

2011-11-09T12:41:00.000-06:00

I have been reading this blog a lot lately and I guess it just resonates with me because of the fact that we are having another child. Please read her beautifully written blog post "Could it be?"

I love the idea that our home is "holy ground"...beautiful.

I will try to be back more often. I miss blogging so much!!!

Love,
Jules

Hello???

2011-08-15T13:55:00.000-05:00

I don't think anyone still reads here but if you do, hang on. I am starting a totally new blog and it's taking awhile. We have A LOT of stuff going this week so it will be at least a couple of weeks until I get it up and running! Miss everyone and I miss blogging! See you soon!!!! And, say "Hi" if you drop by here, please!! :) ♥♥♥♥♥

♥Jules♥

~I so want to be fearless~

2011-07-29T20:07:00.000-05:00

"The Lord challenges us to suffer persecutions and to confess him. He wants those who belong to him to be brave and fearless. He himself shows how weakness of the flesh is overcome by courage of the Spirit. This is the testimony of the apostles and in particular of the representative, administrating Spirit. A Christian is fearless. ~Tertullian~

While I have been on an internet break, God has been doing so much work in my heart. I am getting fond of this quiet time! :) I really don't have a lot of time to share things lately but I don't want to completely disappear, either. Hopefully, I can work something out soon.

Specific prayer requests:

*Finances- we have had central AC trouble & our van quit... :( LOTS of money spent lately that we do not have to be spending. .... but, as always, the Lord has provided. :)

*Family- as usual, some family problems...can't say more right now..please pray.

Love y'all LOTS......THANKS!!!!!

~Jules~

Blogging is just so hard to do...

2011-07-23T20:08:00.002-05:00

For some reason I am having a MAJOR case of blogging brain freeze right now so all you get is my explanation and an apology and hopefully, this will work itself out soon! Still no luck with my other blog so I guess this is the only blog I will have now.

If anyone still reads here, please email me at mama2clairelily@gmail.com with your email address and contact info so I can keep in touch. I lost all of you with the email hacking thing.

Lots of Love,
Jules

2011-05-05T16:00:00.002-05:00

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." Romans 12: 9-11

Hello again..

2011-05-05T15:39:00.000-05:00

I miss this blog. I just do and I have no idea what to write here but it's a happy place for me so I am returning. Keeping it private but returning. So many things I have going around in my head and not enough time to write them all. Be back soon!

Jules

hello??????

2010-06-29T17:49:00.000-05:00

Just checking to see if anyone still reads here??? I may use this blog for a purpose instead of leaving it completely. I am thinking about using this blog for a journal and keeping the other one for a public/family blog. Anyway, just an idea. I am not sure how it will work and probably won't be on either blog very much because of some recent developments in our already crazy busy life. :-)

More to come...

Julie

a blogging break....

2010-05-11T17:35:00.000-05:00

I am taking a blogging break this week. I am not sure when I will be back but it will be fairly soon. I have a surprise for y'all when I return so stay tuned....

~Monday Meanderings~...

2010-05-10T16:40:00.000-05:00

~Bible Study: "My Sister's Keeper" (It was given to me by my mother-in-law and I am loving my reading time every day.)

~Memory Verse:

Ephesians 4: 1-6
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

~Husband Encouragement:

♥I will have to do some thinking on this one as this weekend has been really busy and I haven't had a chance to sit down and think...I will try to report back later!☺

~Train them up:

Same thing. ☺

~Zone: Cluttered surfaces and bathrooms

~Menu Plan:

Monday- breakfast: eggs, sausage links, toast
                lunch: leftover jambalaya
                supper: tuna noodle casserole, spinach salad, brownies

Tuesday: breakfast: muffins from the freezer, milk
                 lunch: mac & cheese, salad
                 supper: Honey Teriyaki chicken, asian slaw

Wednesday: breakfast: doughnuts, milk
                      lunch: lunch in town
                      supper: tortilla soup w/leftover pork carnita meat or spicy chicken taco meat (I have both in the freezer)& beans(from the freezer), guacamole, pico de gallo, chips

Thursday: breakfast: breakfast burritos
                   lunch: chef salads, olives & pickles
                   supper: Shrimp & pasta w/cream sauce, cheddar biscuits, salad, tea

Friday: breakfast: pancakes, fruit
             lunch: bean & cheese burritos (beans from the freezer)
             supper: Grilled hot dogs, chili, coleslaw,strawberry pretzel pie

~Today, I am thankful for:

•My hubby is home where I can watch him and he is feeling much better. ☺

•Three beautiful children playing in the front yard on a slightly cool but nice day!

•A full pantry and a roof over our heads.

•Christian family and friends. ☺

• Vehicles are fixed (for now, anyway!)

Join us at Sarah's for more Monday Meanderings!

2010-05-10T10:08:00.000-05:00

I am sad today. My sweet, wonderful, amazing husband just left to go to work. Usually, he leaves at 4 a.m. but he has hurt from his kidney stones all weekend long and hurt very badly last night. So, it was late to work this morning. The thing is, he works about an hour and a half from where we live and there is no cell phone signal up there in the mountains. So, I can't tell whether he is hurting or what is going on with him. I have to stay here and wait and see. :( Also, he took 2 pain pills and is driving and working with those in his system. NOT GOOD. So, I would ask that you pray for us today. Especially for my sweet husband.

Now, on to happier things: My wonderful husband took the kids to get doughnuts for us on Saturday morning while I slept/puttered around the house. Doughnuts are a good 20 minutes away and he also went to the hardware store and surprised me with hanging baskets for our front porch!!! So, quite a bit of time to myself, I didn't have to fix breakfast and beautiful flowers for Mother's Day....it was so nice!!! Then, on Sunday, we went to church (where we spent time with my Mom) and he fixed dinner for the kids & I (all while he was in pain) and cleaned it up, as well. Actually, I had to help cook a little bit but I didn't mind! Then, we just had a quiet day together and went to see Charlie's Mom last night. It was just a great day!!

I hope to post pictures soon. I have so many to post so will probably spend about a week posting pictures! lol

I have to find my battery charger for my camera, first! :)

Hope you have a wonderful week!

Prayers, please!!!

2010-05-07T12:17:00.000-05:00

The forecast for tomorrow is a high of 75!!!! I am so looking forward to it. Although, not looking forward to my hubby working tomorrow and doing Lily's birthday party by myself! Oh well, we need the money. I also want to request prayers for my hubby. He is in terrible pain with his kidney stones and trying to work. He is working longer hours this week and getting less sleep and he just really needs prayers right now! I know that y'all will pray for him and our family!!!

Happy Mother's Day weekend!!

~Love,

♥Julie♥

I am soooo ready to....

2010-05-06T11:07:00.000-05:00

squash from last year's garden....
*get the AC fixed!!!!!

*put up the pool in the next couple of weeks...it's been 90 the past couple of days. It's supposed to cool off for a week or so but this 90 degree weather has shown me that I want the pool to be ready, soon!

*get the grill fired up almost every single night. I am NOT cooking in the house any more than I have to in the humid heat that is our summer!!

*Try to get some sun on these legs!

*Do school outside and at the park!!! (Going today for lunch!)

*Work on our pool deck and walkway.

*Plant more flowers and purchasing more hanging baskets!

* have garden veggies to freeze & can..not so much canning because of the heat but I will do it. :) Just not without an AC....lol

*Have fresh flowers from our yard throughout our house!

*Work more on our house....bathroom renovations are NEXT!!!!

*get off of this computer, run errands and take my babies to the park for our lunch date!! See you soon!

♥Julie♥

~Monday Meanderings~...

2010-05-03T15:49:00.003-05:00

~Monday Meanderings....

~Bible Study: The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson

~Memory Verse: "Ephesians 4:29" " Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (I've memorized this before but this week I just really need to focus on this verse!)

~Husband Encouragement:

*saying NOTHING negative (see above verse)

*making some favorite meals & desserts

*keeping tea and drinks made & in the house because my hubby has kidney stones and can't have soda..he has been trying to stop drinking them,anyway, so it would be very helpful if I could keep stuff in the house that he could take to work to drink.

*Make & pack his lunch for work everyday

* Write a love note to place in his lunchbox everyday.

*Budget for some new lingerie.

~Training them up:

*See memory verse. Mama has had a hard time with yelling today. Thus, the memory verse and The Ministry of Motherhood bible study.

*Working on organization. I am going to purchase some new bins for their toys, blocks, art supplies, school supplies, etc. this week.

*enforcing chore charts...we have gotten away from this lately.

*Letting the girls "earn" a treat when they memorize a verse. Seems to be working great so far!

*Working on attitude...theirs and mama's. :)

~Personal Goals:

*Drink more water..I used to drink so much water but have gotten away from it and I can definitely feel the effects of it!

*Take my vitamins..same thing.

*Read my Busy Mom's Bible every day (even if only for a minute).

*Stay off the computer at night and during the day. Only have computer time during naps and during their TV time.

*FOCUS on Charlie when he's home. Ask him if he needs anything and then do my best to get it done.

*Exercise & get to bed at a decent hour (by 10 pm)

~Must do!

*Mail invitations to Lily's birthday party

*pay electric bill and insurance

*Make plans for Charlie's birthday (coming up)

*Take baby gifts to my friend, Misty and my cousin, Lindsey.

*Make plans to visit my sister and her family!!!

~Zone:

The yard(flowerbeds) and the garden!!!! Also, working on washing the windows and cleaning the vinyl siding on our home. =D (Love working outside!!)

~Menu: I'll post recipes and links, hopefully by tomorrow.

*Monday- Crockpot Roast w/onion soup & cream of mushroom soup, mashed potatoes (gravy from the roast), green beans, sliced strawberries w/whipped cream.

*Tuesday- Hash from leftover roast (meat, onions, fried potatoes, ketchup), corn on the cob, Peas & carrots

*Wednesday- Baked Salsa Chicken (new recipe, will share if we like it), rice, salad

*Thursday- Pinto beans, fried potatoes w/onion, cornbread (hubby requested)

*Friday- sloppy joes, corn on the cob, salad

*Saturday- Homemade pizza, salad

*Sunday-Crock pot Jambalaya, cornbread

~Fun things!

*Lily's birthday party!

*taking the kids to the library this week! (who doesn't like books??) lol

*We are going to have a park breakfast and play until lunch and then have a picnic lunch and come home and take a nap...hope it works out this way!

*Working in the garden and yard with Daddy!

~Things I am grateful for!

*Jesus and GRACE

*do-overs!!!

*That my husband is doing better. He's in a lot of pain but is feeling much better than he did. And, I can tell, with the diagnosis, some of the stress has been lifted from his shoulders! Soooo grateful for that!

*Healthy happy children!

*Sunshiney days!

*New cookbooks

*Sally Clarkson

*our church

*my dad has had a great week..he just seems better and that makes me happy! =D

Join us at Sarah's for more, Monday Meanderings!

♥Julie♥

what do you think??

2010-05-02T20:15:00.000-05:00

I read this quote somewhere today,on twitter, I think & it just really made so much sense to me! What do you think?? True?? =)

"If you are not willing to be misunderstood, you're not ready to be used by God."

supper for poor folks, y'all.....

2010-05-02T19:46:00.000-05:00

photo: Southern Living Magazine

After a conversation with a friend the other day, it dawned on me that not everyone does this....eats beans and rice. lol I grew up on pinto beans, fried potatoes and cornbread because it was cheap and my parents could grow them in their garden and nothing and I mean nothing, beats my Granny's beans & fried potatoes. :) We also ate rice, occasionally, but growing up, I never had rice with the main meal. We always had rice as a dessert, with butter, cream, sugar, vanilla & cinnamon...yum. However, when I married Charlie, he was a huge rice with a meal fan...chicken and rice, rice with salt and pepper and butter, fajitas, red beans & rice...etc. I am sure you just really wanted to know all of this fascinating history. ;) Anyway.....

So, after reading Dave Ramsey and becoming loyal "followers", we have once again, in an attempt to save money and be "weird"..started eating beans and rice, at least once a week!

Without further adieu, here are some things we do to spice up the "bland" beans & rice category!

Glorified Beans & Rice

Red Beans & Rice w/smoked sausage

& my own thrown together mess!

Julie's beans & rice supper

*1 small bag pintos, washed and sorted, soaked if you like but I don't always do this..shocking, I know! lol (Add seasonings...Lawry's season salt and black pepper. I also use 1-2 strips of bacon for every pot of beans).

*2 cups white rice cooked (4 cups water, 1 T. butter, 1 tsp. salt) (not quick rice) (seasoned with black pepper)

*2 cans hominy (one can white, one can yellow) (Our kids love hominy...you can also use whole kernel corn if you like...can also omit)

*toppings: grated Colby Jack cheese, homemade sour cream, pico de gallo & guacamole, olives, whatever you want!

cook beans and rice seperately. Heat up hominy. Mix all together or eat separately and serve with your choice of toppings!! Yummy! Our kids eat this up...they love that they can pile on the toppings...whatever they like. :)

Well, there you go! Our easy anytime supper! And, I often make a HUGE batch of beans and rice, freeze in Ziploc bags (separately) and reheat for a quick and hearty lunch or supper during the week. Economical and yummy!

♥Julie♥

my day and other random things....

2010-04-30T15:18:00.000-05:00

It's just been one of those days....It started with a migraine last night, some tylenol pm which makes me drowsy the next day and I was woke up at 6 am by 2 hyper little girls. The TV is broke so I could not let them watch a movie while I slept another hour (yes, I have done that). Sooooo....I get up and drink a pepsi (yes, I know) and sit down to try and wake up. Before I can even get dressed, my son comes into the room crying (apparently he had a nightmare) and would NOT go back to sleep. Crying toddler = not good for migraine!! He then proceeded to dump 2 entire cake mixes all over his bedroom carpet, take off his pull up and pee on the cat and throw the magic markers off of the porch (3 times) after he sat in the corner(time-out) and was swatted on the rear for disobedience (he just kept doing it!!!) ....wow, what a morning! (Just being real, folks! Sometimes I do that! lol)

Which started off a day with no air conditioning (it is broke), no vehicle(Charlie is still working on his, driving mine), and no TV!!!!! It is also about 80 here today with 70% humidity...that, my friends, where I live, equals MISERABLE!!!! Oh, it will get much worse but I am praying for the AC to be fixed before it does!! I have been chomping on ice all day and standing in front of the fans! :)

To make a long story short, I have been sitting here going out of my mind. We have read Beatrix Potter books until I am thinking I am a rabbit! lol We have done worksheets (which I hate), cut and glue crafts, took a nature walk, and made no bake cookies! I just can't seem to get out of this funk! This dark, dreary humid weather depresses me...I wish it would rain so it would cool off!

Well, there's my day in a nutshell! Right now it is naptime and I am praying they sleep for awhile. Tomorrow will not be much better because 1.) Charlie has kidney stones (and he is working, please pray for him!!) and 2.) Lily turns 3 tomorrow!! So excited that she will be 3 but a little sad, all the same. :( I don't really have a baby girl anymore. Well, she will always be my baby but you know what I mean....and, I just have to share these ADORABLE outfits I ordered for Lily and Claire!!! Aren't they precious and the best part, CHEAP!!!

And, I soooo want these shoes and some of these cute dresses from Old Navy!!! (I'll do the boys' shopping another day! lol) Next time, maybe I will show you some accessories I have been eyeing for awhile! What's a girl without accessories?? :)

4 Moms Discuss Homeschooling!...

2010-04-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

4 Moms Discuss Homeschooling!!! Over here, today!

I hope you'll give this a read. :)

♥Julie♥

tidbits from my day........

2010-04-28T16:30:00.000-05:00

*Lily will be 3 on Saturday!!! I can not believe that my full of life ,spirited, beautiful ,precious, precarious little girl is going to be 3!!! Although, in many ways, she already seems older. :) We've been going through a rough patch lately but her sweet little hugs and precious helpful ways make it all worthwhile.

*Drew started climbing out of his crib this morning and surprised me in the kitchen as I was making breakfast....arms outstretched saying, "Mama" and giving me the most amazing "loves"....wow. That little boy just slays me. :)

*Claire helping her sister make butterflies from construction paper and making one for Drew-bee because "he can't touch the scissors, Mama. He would get very hurt and cry and we can NEVER make Drew-bee cry because he is my precious brother." And, that, slays me. :)

*The girls asking to read the bible and do our devotion this morning instead of watching t.v. :)

*We are back to 2 hr. naptimes and Mama is so very happy about that! Time to relax. Time to read!!!!

*My hubby surprised me with "Julie & Julia" last night!!! What a sweet thoughtful man I have!! I can't wait to watch it with him!!

*Beautiful day. Nature walks and clothes drying on the line. Bright sunshine & working in the garden....wow....

I really really really LOVE this life!! ♥

Links that are worth a read....

2010-04-28T09:15:00.000-05:00

Homeschooling your kindergartner

4 Easy Steps to help you FAIL at Homeschooling

How Important Parenting Really Is...the Daily Parenting of Thousands

Fussing, Part II by Sally Clarkson

Falling Short (a lot of these good reads came from her recommendations on her blog!)

Bring them unto me (LOVE this blog!)

Wrestling with an Angel (this entire blog is just amazing)

Have an amazing Wednesday!

♥Julie♥

~Monday Meanderings~...

2010-04-26T09:17:00.003-05:00

~Memory Verse: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23 (Revisiting this one this week!)

~Bible Study- Reading out of my Busy Mom's Bible (The verses and study on "Your Emotions")

~Husband Encouragement:

*Work on the Love Dare, again.

*Pick up something nice for him when I go shopping this week just to say "I am thinking of you"

*Purchasing the parts he needs for various things he needs to work on around the house. As he works such long hours, he has absolutely NO time to do this..so, I need to take that burden for him. Also, need to clean his vehicle out for him.

~Train them up:

*Lily has a major attitude problem lately when she is told to do something! Her automatic response is to whine and I hate that! Sooooo....working on whining this week! And, obedience from the heart!

*Claire is majorly tired for some reason...working on figuring that one out!

*Drew is having issues with temper tantrums...working on that and a HEAVY dose of patience for Mama!!

~Must Do:

*Keep laundry folded and put away...this got away from me again when we were sick..getting back in gear this week!!

*Work on budget this week with my baby!

*Stick to budget !!!!

*Finish the garden and yard

~Zone: Living room/family room (decluttering Charlie's desk is the main job!!)

~Menu: (I will TRY to post recipes...not guaranteeing anything but hopefully later this evening?)

Monday-

breakfast: blackberry muffins
lunch: Grilled cheese, apples
supper:Beans, fried potatoes w/onion, cornbread

Tuesday-

breakfast: breakfast burritos
lunch: PB & Honey, bananas
supper: tacos, beans & rice

Wednesday:

breakfast: instant oatmeal, dried fruit
lunch: lunch in town (dollar menu)
supper: Fried rice, egg rolls

Thursday:

breakfast: cereal, fruit
lunch: tortilla pizzas
supper: Pulled pork sandwiches (thinking I am going to try the yogurt rolls with it), pickles, coleslaw, fruit salad

Friday:

breakfast: breakfast cookies
lunch: leftovers
supper: calzones, salad

Fun things!

*Not really sure because of not being sure what my hubby's work schedule is going to be this week. But, fun things for the kids...

*making muffins/bread with mama
*planting flowers and their own little garden spot in the yard!!
*nature walks
*hopefully, Homeschool group if we are meeting this week!!

Well, there's my meanderings, such as they are! Join us at Sarah's and have a great week! :)

♥Julie♥

In the world, but not of it....

2010-04-23T16:49:00.000-05:00

This post articulates so well the exact reasons that Charlie & I homeschool. I absolutely love the inspiring and convicting way she has with the written word. Please read and be encouraged today!

Love,

♥Julie♥

Welcome to my world this Thursday...

2010-04-22T10:10:00.000-05:00

Okay, this is just a random post that I just want to write so I can clear my head for the HUGE day's work I have facing me! Do you ever feel like you need to write to clear your head? Anyway, a few random things for today:

*Drinking sweet tea for breakfast....I have a headache from the Dr.Pepper/soft drink withdrawls so I am drinking some caffeinated sweet tea to help the headache. Hoping it helps!

*I am sooooo tired from the lack of sleep this week and I had a VERY disappointing Tuesday this week but I did get to visit with family from Maine so that was great! Still, I am hoping this weekend is better. I had a rough week. I get to see my sister and her sweet little family and have a baby shower for my niece! Praying it is a good weekend!

*I want a date night with my husband so bad. We REALLY need one right now! Praying that works out for us this weekend.

*I absolutely must get in gear and clean today!!!! All the sickness, traveling and then visiting and not being home has added up. I have sooo much to do!

*School is the same way. We have to get in gear today and finish the week strong!

*Charlie's car and truck, both are messed up right now. So, he is driving my van to work until he can get one of them fixed this weekend. Hopefully, today,we can get outside and get some yard work done or just play. I don't care. Either would be fine!

*The girls picked out some purple nail polish yesterday so hopefully, we can paint their nails today!

*Lots of reading today! :) That's always a great day!

* I am listening to this so much here lately. This is blue-grass, cajun, folk, rock, country, all that thrown together. The lead singer of this band(Evan) worked for my Dad and my husband when he was in high school and college. He's a sweet boy(well, man, now) and we love him to death! So, take a listen if you want and I am thinking about doing a give-away of sorts here on this blog with some of their stuff. Probably will try to do that in May, sometime. Stay tuned for that! In the meantime, head on over to their website!

*Making Blackberry Cheese Pie for dessert tonight! Yum!

so, that's about it for my day! I have to go and get in gear...thinking "Long Hot Summer Day" is gonna be some motivation for that! ;)

Have a great Thursday!

Julie

Monday Meanderings...

2010-04-19T16:35:00.000-05:00

~Memory Verse: "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." Romans 12: 9-11

~Bible Study: Still reading back through "The Ministry of Motherhood" I need the refresher course. :)

~Husband Encouragement: *Help him work on his truck. *Be ready to put everything away and go to bed when he does. Do not stay up and keep doing "one more thing". (Thanks, Sarah!) *Start praying for him more fervently. *Write him a long love letter.

~Train them up:

*Cutting TV time WAY back this week. We got into a little TV rut while the kids and mom were sick and it's time to nip it in the bud! I do NOT like the way they misbehave when too much tv is involved!

*Back to chores and high 5's (relaxed on these due to illness)

*Working on temper tantrums...(including mama's! lol)

Personal Goals:

*Read my Busy Mom's Study Bible every day even if just for a minute...this is the best bible I have ever owned...it is so very helpful!

*Walking at least twice a week

*Not chewing on my nails!!!!

*Cook supper every meal this week (except for Tuesday night, we are eating at the grandparents, yay!)

~Zone:

*Master Bedroom & kitchen (cleaning out the fridge)

~Absolute MUST DO's!!!

*Clean out the refrigerator!

*Vaccum out the van

*Get back into flylady routine (got behind due to sickness)

~Menu: (recipes to be posted throughout the week)

*Monday: breakfast: graham crackers/peanut butter, juice
                 lunch: frozen cheese raviolis, diced tomatoes w/italian seasoning & tad sugar, green beans, apples
                 supper: Grilled pork chops, fried potatoes w/onion, brussel sprouts

*Tuesday:
breakfast: breakfast burritos (on the road, hopefully taking a little trip with my sister & her kids to see my Aunt Kathy!)
                lunch: on the road
                supper: supper at Granny Fogg's

*Wednesday: breakfast: pancakes, bacon, chocolate almond milk
                      lunch: quesadillas, salad
                      supper:salmon cakes, green salad, corn on the cob

Thursday: breakfast: Amish baked oatmeal, sliced bananas
                lunch: PB & Honey on sourdough bread, sliced apples
                supper: Skillet potatoes w/bacon & cheddar, salad

Friday: breakfast: breakfast at the park (if not raining) Donuts!
            lunch: leftovers or burritos & fruit
            supper: Matzo cracker pizza, salad

desserts: * peaches & cream no-bake cheesecake   & * blackberry cheese pie

~Fun things!:

*going to see my Aunt! (I haven't seen her in 10 years)
*I am sure my husband has something fun planned for this weekend! Last weekend we went fishing!
*Breakfast at the park this Friday
*If we are having Homeschool PE, hopefully we will get to see all of our friends!
*Supper at the grandparents with all the family!

~Things I am thankful for today:

*A loving hard working husband!
*That I can be me and not pretend to be someone else!
*I am able to read my bible freely and without fear of being persecuted!
*Beautiful sweet children sleeping peacefully.
*My husband has an early day off (finally!)
*pay day is tomorrow....whoo-hoo!!!

Join us at Sarah's!

Baked ravioli w/meat sauce....

2010-04-19T09:44:00.001-05:00

One of our favorite quick & easy meals is posted on our recipe blog! Hope you enjoy it!

♥Julie♥

What is wrong with me that is right with everyone else??...

2010-04-16T17:38:00.000-05:00

Lately, I have been reading quite a bit of Ann's writing at " A Holy Experience". Her way with words is so soothing to my troubled mind. Here's something I read today that I really wanted to share with all of you. Mothers or not, we all have these days. Click here and find grace.

♥Julie♥

What every family really needs to be strong....

2010-04-16T08:45:00.000-05:00

Read this if you are struggling with your words today. Be (In)Couraged. :)

Now, I am off to make pancakes with my girls, play trucks with my boy and to work hard to be the wife and mother I need to be!! (and, I am doing all of this, JOYFULLY, with my newly painted (RED) Spring toes!! (Thanks, Sarah, you are such a beautiful friend!)

It's a gorgeous Friday....

Hope you have a great one!

♥Julie♥

Open House....

2010-04-15T13:59:00.000-05:00

I found this "daybook" type meme on this charming little blog that I love to read. I don't think she has done any of these in awhile but I think I will start doing this once a week. I hope you can join in!

I am wearing... .my favorite Cruel Girl Jeans, a black v-neck t-shirt, silver & black hoops in my ears, silver & gold flip-flops, wedding rings, Brighton Heart watch, my Montana Silversmith Rose ring and full make-up. (And, of course, sunglasses on top of my head! I know my little sister is laughing reading this!) (I felt bad yesterday and stayed in my pj's all day. Today I got up and got dressed. Still feeling a little puny but the clothes actually made me feel happier!) =)

I am listening to... SILENCE....ALL 3 children are taking a blessed blessed wonderful nap!!!

I am reading... Some Fancy Nancy to the girls...Angelina Ballerina to the girls...The Ministry of Motherhood...So Long Insecurity but I am antsy, I have read all of my books and made notes and now I am ready for another book!! I am a total bookworm...absolutely ♥ books! =)

I am looking forward to... my visit with my sister and her sweet little family. My niece's baby shower and family coming in from Maine.

I am thinking... about babies. =)

In the kitchen: Homemade chicken & dumplin's

In the yard/garden... . GORGEOUS spring flowers all over my yard (will have to post a picture this week!!) and, we are working on our garden!!! Can't wait to start canning and freezing veggies!!

Praying for... my babies to be over this sickness soon! More sleep tonight for me. We are praying most especially, for a little boy we know who has severe health problems.

Thankful for... Jesus. Healthy children except for occasional sickness. Healthy husband. My health. A lovely home. The ability to be a stay at home wife and mother. Our wonderful marriage of almost 12 years. Sweet precious hugs from my beautiful children.

Here's a picture I am sharing with you!:

random wednesday....

2010-04-14T17:03:00.000-05:00

I have some new recipes posted on our recipe blog, check them out!

Chicken taco soup

Pico de gallo & guacamole

~I am having a not so great week after having 2 awesome weeks but I guess that's how it goes and I will just have to roll with it! School has been on hold, laundry is back to being piled on the couch and manners and attitudes are at an all time high. We have, so far this week, and it's just Wednesday, God help me, dealt with Lily and Drew's poison ivy outbreak and now, Claire & Lily and I think, mama, have some sort of stomach bug!! Lord, have mercy!!

~Tonight it is chicken & rice soup & hot rolls from the freezer and hopefully, we can all keep that down. Right now, I am so thankful that I made enough extra a few weeks back to place in the freezer! It pays to cook in bulk, sometimes!

~I have a favor to ask! My cousin is pregnant with her first child and is having trouble in our small town finding cute cheap maternity clothes. Can you help her out? Where did you find yours? We are looking for online and store suggestions! Where is your favorite place to shop for maternity clothes?? Any creative ideas for my cousin??

~My father-in-law built me the most beautiful cookbook stand, ever!!! As soon as I find my camera...I will post pictures for you!! It is just one of the best gifts I have EVER received!! So sweet!! :)

~Day 3 of No cokes is going GREAT!! Having a few withdrawl headaches but nothing serious. I am really excited about this...water never tasted so good!

Well, I am bored and Claire is up from her nap, now so we are going to read for awhile. Some Fancy Nancy books!!

♥Julie♥

Count that day lost...

2010-04-13T08:41:00.000-05:00

"If you sit down at set of sun
And count the acts that you have done,
And, counting find
One, self-serving deed,
one word'
That eased the heart of him
who heard
One glance most kind
That fell like sunshine

where it went_
Then you may count that day well spent.
But if, through all the livelong day,
You've cheered no heart, by yea or nay_
If, through it all
You've done nothing that you can trace
That brought sunshine to one's face_
No act most small
That helped some soul and nothing cost
Then count that day as worst than lost.

~George Elliot

~Monday Meanderings~...

2010-04-12T17:43:00.000-05:00

~Bible Study:

Rereading "So Long Insecurity, you've been a bad friend to us" by Beth Moore. I read it in less than 2 days!!!! So, I am going back and taking notes and just soaking it in for a while!

~Memory Verse: "Even when you are old, I will be the same. Even when your hair has turned gray, I will take care of you. I made you and will take care of you. I will carry you and save you." Isaiah 46:4 (NCV)

~Husband Encouragement:

*Make some favorite meals * Be patient. * Be kind.
*Be more frugal and wise with money management so that it will be easier on him and we can accomplish our goals a lot quicker! :)

~Train them up:

* Back to routine's (High 5's) and Circle time (school after breakfast). We got away from those last week and we REALLY need to reinforce these!

*Work on enforcing first time obedience this week (take the time to GENTLY correct disobedience) Use our "peace place".

~Must Do:

*Lay new flooring
*Finish planting garden
*finish flower beds
*Make list and purchase needed clothing for spring/summer

~Zone:

Master Bath
Laundry Room
(Flylady makes me so happy!!!)

~Personal Goals:

*Absolutely NO carbonated beverages!!!!!

* Walking with Leslie Sansone at least twice this week and/or the Shred.

* Computer time no more than 1 hr. total a day!!!!

*Household items that I MUST make this week: ( I will post recipes, later)

*Laundry Detergent

*Dishwasher Detergent

*Baby Wipes

*Fabric Softener

*Cleaners

~Menu: (I will try to post recipes, throughout the week.)

Monday: chicken taco soup, guacamole

Tuesday: Beans, pico de gallo, cornbread

Wednesday: Baked Ravioli, homemade bread, salad

Thursday: Breakfast burritos, fruit

Friday: Cheeseburgers, homemade french fries, salad, homemade ice cream

Fun things!!

*Lunch at the park!!

*Making some freezer jam w/the girls!

*Family coming to visit!

*Friday night family fun night!!! & Our Date night!!!

Join us with your Monday Meanderings at Sarah's !!!

I want you with me, said the little princess....

2010-04-10T23:17:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, I am putting ALL work, aside.....read here and find out why. Tomorrow, we are going to, as a family, just simply, BE. Be and play and talk and sing and strengthen our relationships instead of cleaning our house. Won't you join us? :)

*Please pray for Lily..she has poison ivy all over her face and hands. Her eye is almost swollen shut. We would appreciate your prayers! It is so hard to watch her be so uncomfortable and not be able to do much for it. :(

Cheap Family Meals...

2010-04-10T09:51:00.000-05:00

I found this website this morning while menu planning and I just had to share it with y'all!! They have a few recipes I am going to try out this week. I'll bet you can find something you like! The crockpot section, in particular, I will be using this week!

Cheap Family Meals

♥Julie♥

What I want for my kids....

2010-04-09T16:28:00.000-05:00

"I don't just want my kids to be moral. I don't just want them to know all of the biblical rules for behavior. I don't just want them to make it through my home with good grades, no drug addiction and no premarital sex. I want them to leave my home with a hunger and passion to know God personally and to be used by Him to accomplish GREAT things for his kingdom. I want them to personally hear God's voice and have His Spirit's gentle touch and impression on their hearts as they read the Scriptures and struggle with the issues of their lives."

~Sally Clarkson, pg. 80 "The Mission of Motherhood"

Easter pictures...

2010-04-09T15:11:00.000-05:00

My babies

Drew hunting eggs with my sweet niece, Sarah.

I'll try to post more pictures,later. My computer is acting up on me. :(

~today is a beautiful day~

2010-04-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

~ I am going to take my kids out for breakfast!! Yes, all three and we are going to eat at the park! It's going to be so much fun and we are so excited!!!

~Going shopping today for a surprise for someone! Can't say! =)

~Housework is under control...still working on the clutter part but 15 minutes a day is doing MIRACLES!~!!! I ♥ Flylady, so much!!!

~I igot "So Long Insecurity, you've been a bad friend to me" by Beth Moore in the mail yesterday(THANKS SISSY!!!) and have already read 12 chapters...YES, I HAVE. =)

~LOVING the fact that we are HOMESCHOOLING (why, yes, spellcheck, that is one word!!!)

~Realizing that I am the best possible provider for our children. I have let other people's doubt and insecurities waver me on whether or not, I can do this or should be doing it! Well, I believe as their mother, that God says I can and should!! (If you are not homeschooling, that's fine. Completely the decision of you and your husband. I am not here to debate over it. Yes, I feel it is the best possible situation for all children. So, there, that is my belief. For those that have questioned me in the comment section.)

~Loving the fact that Dave Ramsey has so completely revolutionized the way we live!! Maybe congress should adapt a similar mentality??? LOL

~I am so completely at peace with the wonderful fact that we have 3 children under the age of 5 whom I am completely and totally responsible for and I AM LOVING IT!!!! It is hard, at times, but sooooo much of it is my attitude and my selfishness. I am facing that and dealing with it and today, I feel like God has led me through a dark valley!!! GOD IS SO GOOOD!! And, if you need me to pray for you, if you are in a dark place, a desperate place, I certainly WILL pray for you and with you!!! God never gives us more than we can handle and raising our children is such a privilege!! We are raising the children of our mighty God!! How awesome is that??

Well, I am off to spend the day with my beautiful gifts from God! Praying that all of you that read this little blog have an amazing God-filled day, as well!

Love to you all!

♥Julie♥

Monday Meanderings...

2010-04-05T17:20:00.001-05:00

~Memory Verse- I have a goal of just reading the word for one minute a day. Instead of a memory verse, I am going to be using my "Busy Mom's Bible" and studying the section in the back on, "Raising your Kids"..also, "Being a wife".

~Bible Study- Alternating between "The Mission of Motherhood" and "The Ministry of Motherhood" by Sally Clarkson...both so full of truth! Also, I am listening to a couple of Dr. Voddie Baucham's cd's.

~Husband Encouragement: Focusing on having a better attitude and giving him special time to do things he wants to do to unwind after a long tiring week at work.

~Train them up: Here's some things we are working on:

*Chores & Order (I am going to try and post our method this week but here's where I got this idea...we just tweaked our routine, a bit.)

*Habit training, goes along with the chores & order. I posted this link last week but wanted to share it, again. I believe that it is so truly valuable.

*No whining...both Claire &Lily but Lily the most! Sally Clarkson's books help me soooo much in this area! She actually makes me WANT to do a better job as a mother! She gets me excited about being home with our babies and LOVING and schooling them, myself. =) Seriously, I cannot recommend this lady's writing, enough!!!! Here's a quote from Mrs. Clarkson:

"[Many parents are] under fear--that if they don't do everything right, it might be their fault if children do not turn out well and if they go astray. So they diligently correct every little immaturity and misbehavior of their children and become the authoritarian parent because someone said that if they didn't correct every little behavior, that they were teaching their children to get away with sin and that this would certainly lead to rebellion. And so they become policemen--watching for the "sin" and bad behavior and treat their children harshly. And instead of enjoying their children, they feel stressed, angry that their children insist on whining and doing things to irritate them all the time."

Um...yeah. May I have an AMEN??????

Anyway, carrying on and blogger is doing something really weird with my font so....just ignore it!

~Zone: It's back to flylady this week and I am SO EXCITED!!!! WHOO_HOO!!!

This week, we are in the kitchen and I am going to add laundry(I took a break for Easter, so we are behind again) to mine!

~Things I need to do:

*No computer at night
*Up and dressed by 7 am
*Pick up flooring (didn't get to do it last week.)
*Plan trip to see my sister & her family
*Organize kids individual binders & folders.
*Declutter kitchen

~Menu:

I am just posting some meals and we will fix a meal each night.

*Tacos (soft and hard shell tacos), crockpot refried beans, guacamole

*Pork chops, baked sweet potatoes, salad

*Italian chicken, steamed broccoli, brown rice

*Hamburger steak w/brown gravy, mashed potatoes, blackeyed peas, corn on the cob

*Hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, corn on the cob, salad

Well, that will get us through Friday and I will worry about the rest this weekend.

~Fun things!

*watching Veggie Tales Easter movie with the kids, thanks, sissy!

*taking the kids to the park this week

*Homeschool PE (hopefully!)

*Our weekly Friday night "Daddy's Home Celebration" (that night we will have Cheeseburgers and hot dogs and let the kids play outside for awhile and then it's bedtime and date night for Mom & Dad. FUN!! (We've been doing this for a month and we are loving it!)

So, there's our week! Y'all have a great one! And, join us at Sarah's with your Monday Meanderings!

♥Julie♥

blogging blahs...

2010-03-31T17:29:00.000-05:00

I have soooo many things that I want to blog about but I am just to lazy to take the time to do it or to upload pictures to go with the posts that I want to write. I don't even want to link to anything. Just typing this is making me tired. So, if I haven't commented on your blog it's not because I don't care or I am boycotting you. lol It's because I am soooo cotton pickin' tired!!!

So, because of this major case of blogging blah's I am having...I will be on blogging hiatus until after Easter Sunday. Honestly, with all I have to do to get ready for that, I just don't have the time. Hopefully, I will come back refreshed and renewed and with lots of Easter pics to post and talk about!

We get to go shopping tomorrow with my Mom and I am looking forward to that! And, we are LOVING this beautiful weather.....80 degrees and SUNNY today!!! No wonder I don't want to blog! :)

~See you after Easter& have a wonderful weekend celebrating and remembering the resurrection of our Lord and Savior. Jesus Christ.

HAPPY EASTER!!!!!

♥Julie♥

~The Simple woman's Daybook~

2010-03-30T10:26:00.000-05:00

Outside my window...
It's sunny & GORGEOUS!!

I am thinking...
of Easter activities and lesson plans to do with my children. Any ideas?

I am thankful for...
my beautiful family and the fact that this morning's routines have gone smoothly.

From the learning rooms...
The letter, "R" and we are writing our own poetry this week.

From the kitchen...

homemade blueberry muffins for breakfast. Homemade bread for the week. Chocolate delight for dessert tonight.

I am wearing...
black yoga pants, gray t-shirt and black and hot pink flipflops.

I am creating...
new dry-erase workbooks for my littles and a photo collage for our master bedroom wall.

I am going...
to town today to purchase household necessities.

I am reading...
"The Mission of Motherhood" and the book of Galations...fruits of the Spirit

I am hoping...
for my hubby to be able to work from home, soon.

I am hearing...
my children talk about blueberries as they eat their muffins we just made.

Around the house...
the laundry is ALL folded AND put away!! The house is tidy and inviting and comfortable right now and it's a happy day! Now, the goal is to keep it that way!

A few plans for the rest of the week:
to celebrate Easter and continue with our newly established cleaning/organization routines. Homeschool PE later this week and time with friends.

A picture I am sharing:

Quiet time yesterday (the girls are watching a movie while Mama relaxes and Drew sleeps. It was a LONG tiring day!)

Join us at The Simple Woman's Daybook!

♥Julie♥

Monday Meanderings...

2010-03-29T17:17:00.000-05:00

~Bible Study: continuing, "The Mission of Motherhood" eagerly awaiting Beth Moore's, "So Long Insecurity" that my sister so generously bought me...♥ my sissy, so much! :) ( I am almost finished with my "Mission of Motherhood" notes and hope to be able to sit down and share them soon.)

~Memory Verse: "The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin." Exodus 34:6

~Husband Encouragement:

1.STOP complaining(I've started getting into the nasty little habit of complaining, recently, and I just want to nip this in the bud!)

2. Continue the Love Dare

3. Make sure he gets more sleep

~Train them up:

1. Work on Mommy's anger & attitude!

2. We are implementing new chores & routines with these ideas in mind.

3. It's Easter week! Doing some resurrection history, crafts, etc. Any ideas????

4. Starting the Morning High 5 and Evening High 5 and sticking to it ( I want to do a post on this soon.)

~Personal Goals:

*Get up before the children and have glass of ice water(wakes me up) and some quiet time with my bible

*Get laundry on the line and eggs gathered/washed before breakfast/school

* Starting the Flylady "Body Clutter" program that my friend Roxanna, recommended! It's so simple and I have been trying to do it for a week. It's my fault that I haven't stuck to it....stress makes me eat!! This week, we are starting over and I am going to do this!! Join me, it will be fun! :)

*FIND EASTER DRESSES FOR THE GIRLS & I !!!!

~MUST DO:

*clean out fridge

*Send late birthday cards & various gifts I need to mail out that have been slipping my mind. lol master bathroom, again (clutter is getting out of hand)

*Look into Medi-Share
*Pick up flooring for the house

*Pay bills

*Mail off census

*Be in bed by 10 pm every night (lights out not reading) :)

~Zone:

*We are starting to follow Flylady again and I am excited to get some control of our home/my life, again!!

~Menu:

Monday: Chicken tacos, guacamole & chips

Tuesday: Grilled chicken, baked sweet potatoes, salad

Wednesday: Baked potato soup, cornbread

Thursday: Breakfast burritos, Blackberry cobbler

Friday: Beef enchiladas, guacamole & chips, salad

~Fun things:

* Easter baking with my girls!!

*Easter celebration, dinner & egg hunting after church Sunday morning!

*Going fishing with Daddy on Saturday. =)

~Things I am thankful for today:

*my wonderful husband who works so very hard to provide for our family and doesn't ever complain!

*After today, I am grateful that my children still love and adore me. It's been that kind of day. :(

* A God who is ALL I need. I don't need someone's approval or friendship or even love. I have my God and my family and friends. That's enough for me. If someone has a problem with me, let God handle it. I just have to do my best and that's all I can do. :)

* Chickens that lay a huge amount of eggs even if I spend 1/4 of my day washing them!

* Our van and the room it provides. So nice. :)

* The beautiful sunshine that we have had lately. Gorgeous to play in and wonderful when your dryer is broke! lol

For more Monday Meanderings, join us at Sarah's delightful blog!

♥Julie♥

simple saturday....

2010-03-27T18:20:00.001-05:00

*I must really be tired if I can't spell "simple"! :) It's corrected, now.

~I love the smell of freshly turned dirt! My hubby is on the tractor as I type this, discking up the garden for planting...can't wait!

~Hanging clothes on the clothesline...love the fresh smell! (No dryer sheets needed!)

~Doughnuts this morning and the park with Daddy...

~A simple down home supper of pinto beans w/bacon, fried potatoes w/onion, and buttermilk cast iron skillet cornbread...yum-yum!!

~The latest OCHEC magazine....a homeschooling resource that is sooooo wonderful! I can't wait to curl up tonight and read to my heart's content! :)

~Planning this week's menu straight out of my collection of cookbooks...such a fun thing to do!

Hope you are having a great weekend!

♥Julie♥

random Friday...

2010-03-26T17:50:00.000-05:00

Random:

Today's highlights:

*woke up with a migraine. :(

*phone got lost for the 900th time this week.

*Drew had diarrhea

*got locked out of the house & van (LONG story!!)

*My sweet nephew, Jess, got it unlocked for me and saved the day! There's a reason he's a firefighter!! lol

*However, I did get my hair cut and colored and we are going out to eat tonight(with the kids but, oh well!)

YAY, guacamole!!! Yummy!!

*I am looking forward to curling up with a good book this weekend and just having some time to myself. We'll see! :)

* I get to pick out Easter clothes this weekend for the family. That's one of my favorite times to shop! And, I need to get everything together for our school unit this next week..that's always fun! :)

*Can't wait until Easter and the traditional things we always do. I love being a wife and mama and making so many wonderful memories with our little family!

*Listening to a lot of Kutless and Casting Crowns, lately. Some Selah, too. Just trying to surround myself in worship!!

I had a wonderful visit with our new Aunt Sherry, yesterday. I am soooo happy she is part of our family. :)

I can't wait to bake lots of yummy goodies for our Easter celebration!! You know how I adore baking! lol

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!

♥Julie♥

♥more patience♥!

2010-03-26T12:08:00.000-05:00

I am almost done with the new blog design...just a few more tweaks to the sidebars (the width is not quite right) and I will be done!!! Stay tuned...and if you haven't tried this out for yourself, you must!! Blogger now makes this easy for you to do...look in your inbox for an update or go to your blogger dashboard and you should see "blogger draft"..I will try to explain in more detail, later this afternoon!

Have a blessed day!

♥Julie♥

Excuse the mess, please!

2010-03-24T10:28:00.002-05:00

Please excuse the mess while I do some bloggy housekeeping! I am working on a few things but it takes time and with you know, life, happening....well, let's just say it may be awhile until I get it all cleaned up and purty!! :)

Have a happy Wednesday!!

♥Julie♥

worthy to remember in these troubled times....

2010-03-22T10:49:00.000-05:00

2 Chron 7:14 If my people , which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

Fun ladybug math activity....

2010-03-19T08:39:00.000-05:00

I subscribe to this fun little blog and this activity popped up this morning! I can't wait to get home from Homeschool PE group so we can try it!! It would be a great way to finish off math this week with both girls...I can make it easier for Lil-bear and a little harder for Care-bear. Great!! :) So, if you want to give it a try, here's the link:

Ladybug Math Activity

~Today~

2010-03-18T09:53:00.001-05:00

Today, I am....

~Sitting on the front porch with Claire & Lily (Drew is still asleep) wrapped in quilts, drinking hot cocoa & watching the baby calves play in our front pasture.

~Going to load up the kids in a bit and take them to McDonald's for a $1 menu breakfast...I ♥ the sausage burritos and a Dr.Pepper or a large sweet tea...bad for me, I know but oh, so good!!

~Putting away winter clothes (except for jackets, it still gets chilly here for a bit) and dragging out the spring apparel. Making a list of what we need and (want) to add to what they already have. This sounds like a chore I would hate to do but actually I love it. I love to pull out Lily's hand me downs from Claire and see what she wore and remember her in those cute little outfits and envision Lily in the same clothes. :)

~Writing a church newsletter and working on a bible study for teenage girls....lol, we'll see how that turns out!

~Laying out everything for PE tomorrow....if we are having anything?? Oh, I hope so! We so enjoy & miss being with everyone in our homeschool group! :)

~Finishing lessons for the week so we can take tomorrow off! (making more "bird nests" with the girls...finishing our math unit and reading more about that delightful Ingall's family! (The Long Winter)talking about baby calves and doing some research! (I love homeschooling and the way you can just spontaneously learn about whatever you see that looks interesting!)

~Breakfast for supper tonight! The Pioneer Woman's yummy Migas!!!! If you haven't had these, you don't know what you are missing! Fried corn tortillas, eggs, peppers, onions, fresh tomatoes, pico de gallo, cilantro, and I top mine with monteray jack and sour cream! Oh, yum! (If the recipe is not on her site, I will try and post our modified version later....it's in her new cookbook!)

~I will be washing fresh eggs half the morning, lol. Seriously, I have about 2 dozen to wash and about 6 dozen in the refrigerator. ....anybody want some eggs???

~Thinking about Easter outfits...no idea.

~Hanging laundry on the clothesline!

~Folding more laundry...lol

~Playing outside in this beautiful sunshine!

~Scrubbing floors (can I skip this part??) :)

~A hot bubble bath and some Word of God before bed.

~Falling into bed tonight to read more, "The Mission of Motherhood" notes coming soon.... I hope!

~And to go to sleep next to the most wonderful man in the world. :)

~Waking up again in the morning and starting another blessed day...

Ya'll have a great one, too!!

♥Julie♥

~Homemade Instant Oatmeal...~

2010-03-17T11:44:00.001-05:00

This is what I made for my family this morning, instant oatmeal!! I got the idea from Life as Mom and thought, Why not?" so....this is what I did. Feel free to try whatever works for you! So much healthier and CHEAPER than the boxed stuff! :) Hallelujah! This is the stuff that makes me feel fulfilled! Taking care of my family the best I can.

"Homemade instant oatmeal" may sound like an oxymoron, but this recipe makes it easy to make oatmeal instantly using homemade ingredients, instead of whatever is in those store-bought packets. Not only is it easy to make your own, the homemade version is more filling and less expensive than the store bought stuff, and you can make it without all the sugar and preservatives. Makes one serving of instant oatmeal- Wikipedia

1/4 cup quick oats

1 tsp. dried milk powder

1/8 tsp. salt

3 tsp. brown sugar

1/4 tsp. cinnamon

*And, I added some dried apples & raisins that I keep for homemade granola.
About 6 Tbsp. of hot water.

I put ours in individual bowls this morning but I am planning on making some ziploc baggies this afternoon to have on hand in our pantry. Easy and Quick breakfast!

Give it a try & let me know what you think..

♥Julie♥

Practical vision for young mothers....a series..

2010-03-16T09:15:00.000-05:00

Joy, The Stay at Home Missionary is doing a series this week on "Practical Vision for Young Mothers". This is an excerpt from today's Part I. Go on over, read and become encouraged, because if you are like me, you really need it! :)

"It is in those moments as a mother that it is the most challenging, and we find ourselves asking the questions (similar to the ones I asked during my meltdown):

Why am I here?

Why am I doing this?

Does any of this matter?

Does my life count for anything at all?

Well, your life and your job as a mother does matter."

♥Julie♥

~Monday Meanderings~...

2010-03-15T11:26:00.000-05:00

*I'll try to be back with links and recipes during "Quiet time" today....we'll see! ha! For now, here's the basics:

I'm not going to do very many Meanderings this week. I am not really sure right now how our week is going to shape up so we will just organize what we can and go with the flow..

*Memory Verse: "Be very careful how you live-not as unwise but as wise; making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16

*Bible Study: continuing in "The Mission of Motherhood"-sorry I haven't posted my notes..I plan to do that this week. Life gets away from me at times.

*Husband Encouragement: continuing "The Love Dare" and trying to keep things done that he ask me to do. I am trying to make his life easier in any way that I can.

*Train them up: Being gentle and kind (Me) and working on getting our schedule back on track (wake up, breakfast (school during breakfast (circle time), chores (Morning High 5), play outside or recess, lunch, school for girls while Drew naps, play outside or quiet time, Meal Preparation, Supper, chores (Evening High 5), bath and bedtime. =) Hopefully, we can get back on track.

*Zone:

~ Our bedroom (just clutter that needs to be put away)

~ Kids' toys and clothes (go through Spring clothes, put away most of winter. Clean out and organize toy totes)

~ Homeschool clutter (sort all books onto one bookshelf. Place workbooks into individual binders and finish color coding everything!)

~Keep the van cleaned out!! (This is really bugging Charlie and I am trying to keep this done. )

~Laundry folded and put away (same here. It bugs me and my husband. "Nuff said" Just do it!! Ha!)

*Books I am reading:

~The Mission of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson

~My Busy Mom's Bible by Zondervan (this is just awesome!)

~The Love Dare (I have been reading this and putting this into practice since Fireproof came out. We work on this and then we get off track and start over and I can not recommend this book enough for your marriage!! I am so glad we saw this movie and so grateful that we attend a church that paid for us to do so and bought the books. A church that values the bond of marriage!!)

*Things I am thankful for today:

~A husband and children that love me
~My God is a loving and forgiving God
~This weather is GORGEOUS!!!
~Forgiveness and restoration

* I have changed my menu planning organization up a bit! You will notice that we are having "taco night" on Mondays for awhile...hubby loves tacos. And, Friday night will be sandwich/appetizer night and Saturday is homemade pizza. I just keep tweaking with it to see what makes it easier on us as a family. During this season of our lives, easy is preferred! =)

Monday- taco salad

Tuesday- fish & shrimp, baked potatoes, salad

Wednesday- beans & brown rice, salad

Thursday-Burritos(made with leftover beans & rice& shredded cheese), guacamole

Friday- submarine sandwiches, chips & dip

Saturday- Homemade pizza, salad

Sunday- Crockpot Chicken Chow Mein, egg rolls, Coconut Cream Pie

Join us at Sarah's delightful blog for more Monday Meanderings!

♥Julie♥

~Cute Spring craft!~

2010-03-12T11:33:00.000-06:00

We made these last year and are making them again tomorrow with Daddy! We are learning all about "nests" this week so this is a great fun little craft to fit in! Have fun!! :)

♥Julie♥

~Abigail~

2010-03-12T10:49:00.000-06:00

I found this while searching through my blogger drafts this morning for, oddly enough, a craft about birds nests! ha! Anyway, it made a lot of sense to me so I wanted to share it with you. Hope it helps someone.

REVIVE OUR HEARTS.COM

Caught in the Middle

Series: Abigail: How to Live with the Fools in Your Life
Wednesday, April 16 2008

Leslie Basham: Here’s Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: You don’t have to let a harsh, badly-behaved man turn you into a harsh, badly-behaved woman.

Leslie: This is Revive Our Hearts with Nancy Leigh DeMoss for Wednesday, April 16.

Yesterday we wrapped up a series on how wives can understand their husbands better, meet a husband’s needs, and serve him. Whenever we air a series like that, we hear from listeners who are in bleak situations.
Nancy provides biblical counsel for women who have husbands who seem impossible to love, and she gives advice to anybody who has to deal with a difficult person. Here she is in a series called How to Live with the Fools in Your Life.

Nancy: If you’ve been listening to Revive Our Hearts for any length of time, you may remember a year or so ago when we did a lengthy series on the Proverbs 31 woman. We called it The Counter-cultural Woman.
When you think about Proverbs 31 and that virtuous woman, it’s easy, perhaps, for some women to think, “That’s easy for that woman to be virtuous. Look at the guy she’s married to. I mean, he loves her. He’s an honorable man. He’s a virtuous man. Anybody could be a great woman if she was married to a man like that.”

I think of some of our listeners who call us, send letters, or emails. I’m so thankful for those letters and emails. I read as many of them as possible. So many of those women pour out their hearts about some difficult or impossible situation that they feel trapped in.

For some, it’s their marriage. They’re married to a man who just is impossible to love, humanly speaking. He may just be mean. Or maybe it’s a situation at work—a boss who’s impossible, somebody they can’t please.
It may be a situation in their church—someone they can’t get along with, someone who is cantankerous. I’m sure there’s nobody cantankerous in your church. But in some churches, there are some cantankerous people.

Maybe you have one of those impossible people in your life—maybe in the four walls of your own home, in your workplace, in your church, in your neighborhood, wherever. How do you live with those kinds of people? How do you respond as a virtuous woman when you’re living with someone who is an ungodly, foolish person?

Well, there’s an amazing story in the Old Testament, 1 Samuel chapter 25. I want to ask you to turn in your Bibles to 1 Samuel 25. We’re going to be introduced to a woman in the Old Testament. She’s not as well-known as some of the other women that we’ve studied in Revive Our Hearts, not as well-known as Mary of Nazareth or Deborah or Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist.

But Abigail has become one of my favorite Old Testament characters. She is an extraordinary woman. There’s a lot we can learn from her life, not only from her life but also from the two men who are the other main characters in this story.

At any given time in your life, you may relate to any one of these three characters. So we’re not just going to study Abigail. We want to look at the two men who were involved in her life. As we do this character study, we want to see what God has to teach us for our lives.

Let’s start with verse one, which is the setting for this story. In verse one of chapter 25 we read, “Now Samuel died. And all Israel assembled and mourned for him, and they buried him in his house at Ramah.”
You remember that Samuel was a man of God. He was a prophet. He lived a long, long time. He was the last of the judges. He was the one who anointed Saul to be the first king of Israel. He’s also the one who anointed David to be Saul’s replacement.

When I think of Samuel dying, the picture that comes to my mind is a little bit like what happened when President Ronald Reagan died. Do you remember? He had been a great leader. He had led this nation. He was esteemed. He was respected. He’d lived a lot of years. He had led the nation well.

When President Reagan died, do you remember how the flags were flown at half mast and how thousands and thousands of people lined up, first in California and then in the streets of Washington D.C., to just stand and watch as the procession carrying his body drove through those streets. Remember how over a hundred thousand people stood in line there at the rotunda in Washington, some of them for up to three hours, just to file by and pay their last respects.

The nation mourned when President Reagan died. I mean, Republicans, Democrats, people who didn’t know what party they were. They had a lot of respect for this man. And they mourned when he died. They grieved.
I think that’s a little bit what it was like when Samuel died. There was this national sense of grieving, mourning. But of all the people who were grieving when this great man of God, Samuel, died, I think that David was probably the one who mourned this loss as much as anyone else in the whole land of Israel.

You remember that David had been anointed to be the next king of Israel. But King Saul was still on the throne. King Saul was an egomaniac. He was full of himself. He was insecure. And he was trying to kill David. He was jealous of David and knew that David was coming to the throne. There was this war going on between Saul and David.

Samuel the prophet had been a buffer between David and Saul. And now Samuel is gone. I can imagine David feeling abandoned, vulnerable, alone, maybe depressed, discouraged, maybe wondering, “Are God’s promises for my life really ever going to come true?”

In the midst of that lonely, vulnerable, scared time in David’s life, we come to the next phrase in verse one that says, “Then David rose and went down to the wilderness of Paran.”

David, in the context of 1 Samuel 25 here, has been fleeing for his life from this madman, King Saul. He’s a fugitive. In the previous chapter he had been in the wilderness of Engedi and had had an encounter with King Saul. Now Samuel dies, and David moves further south down to the wilderness of Paran to get further away from King Saul.

As he’s headed south toward the wilderness of Paran, this story takes place. In this place David encounters a couple, a husband and a wife, and a couple like many I have heard of and met today, where one of the mates is a godly person who loves and fears the Lord and the other mate is a totally ungodly, selfish, wicked person. It happens. And David met a couple just like that.

As we’ve said, there are three main characters in this story. When you study the Bible, as you do character studies, it helps to ask yourself, whether the characters are good or bad.

Is there an example here for me?
Is there an example to be followed?
Is there an example to be avoided?

What does this passage and what do these people teach me about the heart and the ways and the character of God?
That’s what we’re going to be looking for in this story.

The first character we’re introduced to—and I want to just give you a quick overview today and then tomorrow we’ll jump into the story. But the first character is a man named Nabal. His name means “fool,” a Hebrew word for “fool.”

In verse 25, we read about Nabal. “As his name is, so is he.” His name means “fool” and that describes exactly what this man was like. He was a wicked, foolish man.
As we study the life of Nabal, we’re going to see a lot of the characteristics of a fool. As you see those characteristics, you may recognize someone you know, maybe more than one person.

But you know what else? You may also see yourself, at points. One of the things we want to do as we go through this series is say, “How can we avoid becoming like a Nabal? How can we avoid having those characteristics in our lives?”

Nabal’s foolish behavior evoked two very different kinds of responses from the other two main characters in the story. First there was David, the man who was going to be king. He had been appointed by God to be king, but he was still a fugitive from King Saul.

David’s response, when he came face to face with this foolish man Nabal, was to get provoked. He lost control. He was tempted to respond just the same way that Nabal had treated him. The danger is that when you get around a fool, you may respond like a fool.

In fact, as we get into this story, we’ll see that David’s response was even worse than what Nabal had done to provoke him. We’ll see in this story that even the most godly people sometimes act in ungodly, foolish ways.
That’s why we all need wise counsel. We need godly people around us who will help us see when we’re being foolish and, when necessary, will confront us, will love us enough to get into our face and speak the truth to us as Abigail did to David.

We need people who will give us godly counsel when we’re acting like fools. And we need to learn to listen to that counsel, to take it, to heed it.
That’s what humility really is. It’s the willingness to listen to wise counsel and to change direction when we realize we’ve been wrong. We’re going to see in David a man who, though he initially responded foolishly to this fool, was willing to listen to wise counsel and to change his course, to change his direction, when he realized he’d been wrong.

The third character, as we’ve already referenced, is this woman named Abigail. She models an incredible response to foolish people. There’s so much we can learn from her, whether the fool in your life is the husband or it’s a boss or it’s a son or daughter or it’s an in-law or it’s somebody in your church or your neighbor. Whoever the fool is in your life, Abigail teaches us how to live with and deal with the fools in your life.

She’s a woman of discretion. She’s a woman of wisdom. She’s a peacemaker. Her life changes the whole outcome of this story.
As in every story, including yours, there’s a fourth, mostly-silent character in this story and that is God Himself. God who is always behind the scenes ruling, overruling and intervening in the affairs of men. God who is always sovereign; He’s always on His throne. He’s always working to achieve His purposes and fulfill His promises.

We see in this story a God who is never absent, a God who is never asleep on the job. It’s the same God who is in your story, a God who is involved in your life, who cares about the fools that you live with or work with or go to school with. There’s a God who is involved.

Verses 2 and 3 tell us:
There was a man in Maon whose business was in Carmel. The man was very rich; he had three thousand sheep and a thousand goats. He was shearing his sheep in Carmel. Now the name of the man was Nabal, and the name of his wife Abigail. The woman was discerning and beautiful, but the man was harsh and badly behaved; he was a Calebite.

Most likely this marriage between Abigail and Nabal had been arranged by her parents, as most marriages were in that culture. She probably had no say in the matter. She was beautiful. He was rich. Her father may have thought he was really doing her a favor by marrying her into this rich man’s family, thought he was doing a good thing for her.

A beautiful woman and a rich man—you’d think that was a great combination. But the problem is that beauty and wealth are only external characteristics. What really matters when it comes down to real life is the heart, the character, not the outward appearance or the material wealth.
In the case of this couple, the difference between their hearts and their character could hardly have been more extreme. It was like night and day. This is a totally mismatched couple when it comes to matters of the heart.
He was a foolish, ungodly man; she was a wise, godly woman. We don’t know if he had always been that way, if he was that way when they got married. Maybe she thought he was a great man when they got married. As is true of many women that I’ve heard from, they say, “I had no clue till years into our marriage what kind of man he was going to turn into.”
Or maybe he’d always been ill-tempered and ill-mannered. We don’t know. All we know is she ended up in this very difficult marriage.

There are a couple points of application that are pretty obvious to me already in this chapter. First is the fact that if you are godly, that does not necessarily guarantee that your mate will be godly or that others in your life, others you live with, family members, friends, co-workers will be godly. The fact that you are a godly person does not guarantee that the people around you will be godly people. Neither does it guarantee that they will change.

Sometimes people who write us about our program say, “You give me the feeling that if I just live a godly life, my husband will become a godly man.”
I want to make it clear. We are not saying that, because the Scripture doesn’t say that. Scripture does teach that a godly mate can have a powerful influence on an ungodly mate. But there’s no guarantee that your choosing to live God’s way will change the people around you who are fools, who are Nabals. They may never change.

There’s a second application here, and that is that you don’t have to let a harsh, badly-behaved man turn you into a harsh, badly-behaved woman. That’s one of the powerful things about this story. The fact that your mate or someone else that you have to live with or work with on a regular basis, the fact that they are ungodly doesn’t mean that you can’t be godly yourself.

You see, we tend to feel that our level of godliness or spirituality is tied into the people around us. They make us react this way. No one can make you react in an ungodly way. The fact that you have to live with a person who is ungodly doesn’t mean that you can’t be godly yourself. Your character, your responses don’t have to be controlled by theirs.

One of the things that I love about this story is by the time we enter into it—we don’t know what all had preceded it but we know that Abigail has been living with this harsh, badly-behaved man. We know that had to affect her. She was living with the man.

But it’s obvious that she had not let Nabal destroy her. She was still a discerning, wise, godly, beautiful woman. She had not let his behavior control hers. She was still winsome, courageous, gracious.

And most important, she had not lost her faith in the promises of God just because she was living with this wicked man who, as far as she knew, never would change. In fact, he never did change.

We’re first introduced to Nabal in this story and then to David and then to Abigail. Verse 2 tells us that this man was very rich. He was a business man, a wealthy business man. He was influential.

As you read this story, and this will unfold over the next few sessions, one of the things that’s real obvious is some of the potential pitfalls of wealth. These things don’t have to be true of wealthy people, but they often are. By the world’s standards, we are wealthy. So these are qualities we need to watch out for in our own lives.

People who are wealthy can become independent-spirited. Others need them, others are dependent on them, but they don’t need anybody. They don’t need anything.

Sometimes with people who are very rich in the world’s standards in material goods, it’s hard for others to be honest with them. In verse 17 the servants said about Nabal their master, “One cannot speak to him.” He won’t listen to anybody.

Nobody can tell the truth to him. He’s powerful. He’s influential. He’s wealthy and people are scared to death of him. Nobody will really speak the truth to him.

We all need mirrors in our lives. We need people who will be honest with us, who will love us enough to speak the truth. But here’s a man who, partially because of his wealth, had gotten into a position where no one would be honest with him.

People were afraid of telling him the truth, afraid of losing their job. What if one of those employees had spoken up and said, “Nabal you’re wrong; you’re acting like a fool”?
“Off with your head.”

So, people were afraid of him. Sometimes when you have a lot of wealth by the world’s standards, it’s easy to assume the worst of others, to assume negatively of others, as we’ll see that Nabal did of David.

Proverbs 18:23 is a verse that has always been very convicting to me. It says, “The poor use entreaties.” They appeal. They plead. “But the rich answer roughly.” They can talk any way they want to talk. They own the world. It’s all theirs. There’s this pride, this arrogance that sometimes, not always but sometimes, goes with wealth.

Not only was he very rich, but verse 3 tells us he was harsh. If you’re using the King James Version you’ll have there the word churlish. It’s a word that in the Hebrew means “hard, unyielding, unbending, uncontrollable.” You get the picture of this man? He’s a harsh man.

He’s an abusive man. He’s abusive to his wife. He’s abusive to others. He’s verbally abusive. He’s a hard drinker; we’re going to see that. He’s just a mean man.

There are those men in this world and sometimes you have to live with a fool. It may be in your marriage, in your workplace, in your church, in some other sphere of your life. We’re going to see from this study that there is a way to deal with fools in your life and there’s a way not to deal with fools in your life.

The Scripture says that not only was he harsh, he was badly-behaved. The NIV says in that verse that he “was surly and mean in his dealings.” He was corrupt. Chances are he’d gotten some of his wealth by cheating others. He was a badly-behaved man.

And then that phrase, “He was a Calebite.” That may mean that he was a descendant of Caleb, who was a godly man from the tribe of Judah. But the word Caleb in Hebrew means “dog.” Some commentators suggest that, rather than being a descendant of Caleb, what it’s really saying is that it was an adjective to describe his behavior.

One translation renders it, “He was snappish as a dog.” His character is best described as we’ve seen by his name—Nabal, fool.

When we see the word fool in the Scripture, we need to remember that a fool is not somebody who is mentally deficient. It’s someone who is morally deficient. “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God’” (Psalm 14:1). It’s a person who wants to live his life as if there were no God.

He has no fear of God, no fear of man, no regard for what is moral, no regard for what is spiritual. As a result, he acts stupidly, foolishly, disgracefully.

Isaiah 32:6 says, “The fool speaks folly, and his heart is busy with iniquity, to practice ungodliness and to utter error concerning the LORD, to leave the craving of the hungry unsatisfied, and to deprive the thirsty of drink.”
We’re going to see that Nabal, the fool, lived up to that description of a fool. He kept back food and water from those who were hungry and thirsty. He was a foolish man.

I think you can see already that your heart determines your character and your behavior. If you have a foolish heart, you will act foolishly. Your character and your behavior reveals your heart. If you’re acting foolishly in foolish ungodly ways, that reveals that you have a foolish heart.
All through this series, it’s going to be easy as we read about Nabal to think of someone we know. But I want us as we examine this passage to let God shine the spotlight of His Spirit and His Word into our hearts and say, “Could any of this be true of me?”

Am I sometimes impossible to deal with?
Are people not honest with me because I’ll blow up?
Am I arrogant, proud, harsh?
Do I assume negatively of others, assume the worst of them?
Do I answer roughly rather than graciously?
If I act in those ways, if I speak in those ways, that tells you something about the condition of my heart.

The Scripture says we’re all born fools. Only the grace of God and the power of the Gospel, the power of Christ, can transform our hearts, give us a new heart and give us a wise heart.

That’s why we need a heart transplant. It’s only the grace of God if there’s anything in us that is gracious and kind or sweet-spirited, in our homes and in our other relationships. That’s why we desperately need God’s grace.
Apart from the grace of God, every one of us would be a Nabal. That’s why we desperately need the grace of God.

Leslie: That’s Nancy Leigh DeMoss reminding us of how needy we really are. All of us need to learn to not be a fool and how to love other people who are being foolish.

Our team has developed a Bible study on the story of Abigail that will help you incorporate God’s grace into areas of need in your life. It comes with a CD of Nancy’s teaching and you can use the booklet and CD together to study Abigail’s life. Identify areas where you want to become more like her and take some practical next steps.

We’ll send you the Abigail teaching on CD and the accompanying study guide when you make a much-needed donation to Revive Our Hearts. Your gift will help us to continue speaking into the lives of women, and I think you’ll get a lot out of this study we provide as our thanks to you.
Look for information on this study guide, and donate at ReviveOurHearts.com or donate by phone: 1-800-569-5959.
A lot of people call for a lot of reasons, so when you make your donation, would you specifically let us know you’d like the Abigail CD and study guide?

Do you ever have trouble controlling your anger? Get some perspective on the danger of acting in anger from the story of Abigail. We’ll hear about it tomorrow on Revive Our Hearts.
Revive Our Hearts with Nancy Leigh DeMoss is an outreach of Life Action Ministries.

♥Julie♥

~painting in the sunshine~

2010-03-12T08:50:00.000-06:00

We have had a great few days of sunshine so we have been taking school outside quite a bit! This is our "Art Appreciation or Picture Study" class! LOVE homeschooling!!!!!♥

♥Julie♥

Monday Meanderings...

2010-03-08T19:17:00.000-06:00

Monday Meanderings:

Bible Study: "The Mission of Motherhood" Sally Clarkson

Memory Verse: "The rain came down,the streams rose and the winds blew and beat against that house;yet it did not fall, because it had it's foundation on the rock." Matthew 7:25
Husband Encouragment: 1.Starting the Love Dare & making some favorite meals. 2. Doing a better job of keeping things done. 3. Being more gracious about the demands that his job makes on his time. (I'm striving to be more humble this week.)

Train them up:

*To be continued...I am currently reading "The Mission of Motherhood" and processing so many things. I plan on posting what I am learning as I go. Starting tomorrow. :)

Things to do:

*Continue to work on organization...making progress!

*Keep laundry put away and OFF THE COUCH!! :)

* Finish painting our bathroom

*mail out birthday cards & gifts

Zone:

*Living room -keeping it clear of clutter and laundry off the couch!

*Kitchen- organizing and decluttering (we are overrun with tupperware bowls and various containers..it's insane!)

*van-keeping the trash, toys, shoes, etc. contained!!

Exercise plans:

Haha. Yeah. :) Here goes:

I am not going to be focusing so much on exercising at this present time in my life. I am going to strive for 20 minutes 2 days a week or 10 minutes every other day...whatever I can fit in. Right now, with our schedule and life the way it is, we are going to be focusing on eating better and just getting as much exercise as possible. I found myself getting angry and discouraged because invaribly, when I would plan to exercise, something would come up! So, we are going to go slowly and I am going to be praying that I keep my focus first on my family, where it belongs. Exercise will happen but not if I try to force it. I don't know if that makes any sense to you but it's where we are at right now. My husband works all.the.time. and I am usually going it by myself 20 hrs.+ out of the day and with 3 children under 5 and homeschooling.....it's just not #1 priority right now! (Keep in mind, when you read our menu plan, that I will not be eating all of the things that my family eats. I use rice and bread, at times, as a meal stretcher to keep cost down. My husband and I often forgo the starch and limit the kid's portions).

Menu Planning: (Recipes are to be posted throughout the week. Hopefully.)

Monday: Indian tacos

Tuesday: Beans & smoked sausage, cornbread

Wednesday: Jambalaya & cornbread (This didn't get made last week. We had leftovers)

Thursday: Migas, guacamole & chips

Friday: chef salads

Saturday: Homemade pizza, salad

Sunday: Pot roast, mashed potatoes, green beans,

desserts this week: chocolate delight & cheesecake (sugar free desserts)

Things I am thankful for this week:

*The weekend of sunshine and 60 degree temps! Later this week, the weather forecast calls for 70 degrees!!!!! :)

*Celebrating my birthday with the awesome family that God has provided!!

*Healthy children and a great marriage.

*Sally Clarkson and the Mission of Motherhood.

Join us at Sarah's with your Monday Meanderings!

♥Julie♥

~a God stop~

2010-03-03T15:57:00.000-06:00

Last night, I was thumbing through my new Bible I had just received in the mail. What I already LOVE about this Bible is the 1 minute thought starters that are placed throughout the book! This is what the packaging box says about those, "Throughout this Bible you will find fifty-two one -minute thought starters that let you dip into God's word for a minute of refreshment. To go deeper, each one of these Thought-Starters is followed by an option for a five-minute Reflect and Pray or a ten-minute Study to help you to learn even more about what God's word has to say to you today."

Anyway, as I was going through it trying to find something that applies to my right now, I came across this one:

RESTORE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

What's that, again, God??????

Restore your Relationships.

And, it continued on and I knew I was out of my comfort zone:

1 minute: "If you ...remember that your brother has something against you...go and be reconciled to your brother." Matthew 5:23-24

'Forgiveness from God coupled with responsibility toward the other person are key to restoring relationships. In Jesus' eyes, broken relationships are always our responsibility. If someone has something against us, He calls us to go and make it right. If we have something against another, we're responsible to take the initiative to settle our differences (Matt. 18:15). It's not always comfortable, but it is always the right thing to do. Do whatever it takes to restore the relationship. Do it because it pleases God and because your relationships will be richer for it.

5 minutes:

Reflect and Pray: What are some ways you might need to reconcile your relationship with God? What relationship did you once enjoy that has since unraveled? What are steps you could take to restore that relationship?

10 minute: Study:

Turn to pg. 1151 for additional verses on Your Relationships. Look up and pray through some of the verses to learn more on this topic.

Word to take with you today: RESTORE

Wow. I could write a book on my struggles with relationships. I try, really I do but sometimes I give up. But, according to the study I am doing, it doesn't matter to Jesus. I need to get over myself and my hurt feelings and reach out. Even if I get kicked in the teeth (which is the case with a few people) I need to keep trying. For my sake. For my husband's sake. For the sake of my children. Because God says to do it. And that should be enough motivation to try.

This being a Christian stuff is hard sometimes. But oh-so-ever worth it!!!

♥Julie♥

~A more organized alternative to bookmarking!~

2010-03-03T09:03:00.000-06:00

I recently stumbled upon a little thing called "Delicious" on someone's blog I was reading. It was a life changing revolution! No kidding! Instead of bookmarking a site of interest on my computer, I can bookmark something, tag it with the appropriate subjects (for example: a Charlotte Mason site would be tagged: homeschooling, CM, resources) and all of my bookmarks are kept on my Delicious page so I can access them with one easy click and they can be sorted according to subjects! Awesome for a busy homeschooling mama like myself! :)

I know it may sound confusing because I am not to good at explaining things so check it out for yourself and see how easy it is! Here's my Delicious page if you would like to see what I am currently perusing through! (Also, on my sidebar is the link to my Delicious page so you can click there at any time and read away to your heart's content!)

Enjoy!

♥Julie♥

~Menu Plan Monday~.....

2010-03-01T09:26:00.000-06:00

photo credit: The Food Network

Supper menus:

Monday: Mexican mess w/rice (recipe below), salad

Tuesday: Chicken & wild rice, broccoli & cauliflower

Wednesday: Jambalaya, buttermilk cornbread

Thursday: Breakfast burritos, fruit

Friday: chimichangas, rice and beans, guacamole

Saturday: Charlie's choice (my husband cooks or we cook together)

Sunday: Roast chicken, broccoli & cauliflower, twice baked potatoes, chocolate delight

Mexican Mess w/Rice

1 lb. ground beef, cooked and drained

1 med. onion, diced and cooked with beef

1 can Ro-tel tomatoes w/green chilis

1 small can tomato sauce

1/2 c. ketchup

2 cans hominy, drained

2 cans pinto beans

1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. cayenne

1 tsp. Lawry's seasoned salt

1 T. cumin

In skillet, cook beef and onions, drain. Pour in crockpot. Add cumin, salt, pepper, chili powder (opt.) and stir. Add rotel, tomato sauce and hominy. Stir. Cook on low for approximately 4-6 hrs. Serve with hot rice or chips. Easy and good!

I made this week's menu plan following my new organized way to plan menus...I just follow this simple formula and plug in what is on the list for that day. It's hard to explain so I will post it and you can read about it, here!

Have a great week!

♥Julie♥

~My journey to a more organized life~..menu planning

2010-03-01T09:22:00.000-06:00

*I was driving myself crazy trying to plan a menu every week with so many options and forget it if I tried to plan 2 weeks worth of meals or a monthly meal plan! I was just overwhelmed! I found myself sitting with piles of cookbooks and my computer and a notebook and just having NO idea where to start! So, I came up with this easy method based on suggestions I found on the world wide web...:)

It's pretty self explanatory but if you need clarification on anything I have written or you just want to talk menu planning, let me know! I will be happy to give you what little (and that means VERY little) advice and suggestions I may have!

Here you go, my new improved self help plan!

Menu Planning:

Breakfast:

Monday: frozen pancakes, fruit

Tuesday: eggs (buritos or breakfast bowls)

Wednesday: oatmeal, fruit

Thursday: muffins(make enough to freeze for snacks)

Friday: pancakes (enough to freeze for Monday), fruit

Saturday: biscuits & gravy

Sunday: breakfast burritos or oatmeal & fruit

Lunch:

Monday: leftovers

Tuesday: leftovers or PB & Honey

Wednesday: salads or grilled cheese

Thursday: PB & honey, bananas

Friday: leftovers or mac & Cheese

Supper:

Monday: one-dish meal (pot roast, beef stew, chili, soup, etc.)

Tuesday: casserole (baked mac & Cheese, chk & rice, etc.)

Wednesday: crockpot meal

Thursday: Breakfast for supper (migas or burritos or biscuits/gravy, pancakes, etc.)

Friday: mexican or italian or chinese

Saturday: Charlie's choice

Sunday: crockpot or pot roast or roast chicken

♥Julie♥

~My hubby's olive salad...yummy!~

2010-02-27T15:41:00.000-06:00

Stromboli w/olive salad = yummy!! :)

6 oz. Jar marinated artichoke hearts, undrained

6 oz. Can Black olives, drained

6 oz. Can Spanish olives, drained

2 celery ribs, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

½ sweet onion, diced

1 ½ cup sliced fresh mushrooms

8 oz. Mild banana pepper rings

¼ cup. Bell pepper, finely chopped

3 or 4 T white vinegar

1 ½ T Italian seasoning

½ cup olive oil

Crush olives and mix all together in LARGE bowl. Refrigerate overnight to marinate and place in jars to keep.

♥Julie♥

~My journey to a more organized life....laundry schedule~

2010-02-26T14:37:00.000-06:00

*I know that this is really boring and most of you could probably care less when I do my laundry but I thought I would post what we are currently following in our household. I know it helps some people to see it all in black and white when you are overwhelmed and have no idea where to start. I am one of those people! So, if this can help you, great!

Monday:

~towels
~white clothes
~sheets

Tuesday:

~My husband's clothes
~My clothes

Wednesday:

~towels

Thursday:

~kids' laundry

Friday:

~towels
~my laundry
~husband's laundry

Saturday:

~work clothes (My husband's and certain items he needs for work such as work coat, gloves,safety vest, etc.)

~kids' laundry

~quilts or bedding

~Ironing for church

Sunday:

~towels

~anything that needs done

*I am really hoping this keeps me from doing the normal 4 or 5 loads a day! I would really like to get down to around a reasonable 2 loads a day. We are also having the children help fold and put away their laundry as it comes out of the dryer. It seems to be working well, so far and I am praying it continues!

♥Julie♥

~My journey to a more organized life....cleaning schedule~

2010-02-25T18:22:00.001-06:00

I sat down this past weekend and made a list of all the areas I need to devote more organization/focus to..here's my new schedule and what I am really trying to accomplish. I hope this can help someone who just needs an idea of where to start. It's very hard when you feel overwhelmed. Believe me, I know. :)

Cleaning Schedule

*Monday:

dishes
laundry (see list)
e.d.w.d.
clean appliances
sweep

*Tuesday:

dishes
laundry
e.d.w.d.
mop
dust

*Wednesday:

dishes
laundry
e.d.w.d.
bathroom(wipe down every day but really scrub today)
vacuum

*Thursday:

dishes
laundry
every day wipe down/pick up
closets
laundry room

*Friday:

dishes
laundry
e.d.w.d.
sort mail
desks
clean out van

*Saturday:

laundry
dishes
e.d.w.d.
Help Charlie
mop & vacuum

*Sunday:
upkeep

Tomorrow, I will try to post my menu planning format and schedule.Riveting stuff. :) Stay tuned...

♥Julie♥

~Blog work in progress~

2010-02-25T12:34:00.000-06:00

Hi and thanks for stopping by! Right now, my daughter Claire & I are working on a new blog look so if you are alarmed by the mess, don't be! We will have it back to beautiful in no time at all1 In the meantime, enjoy your look around!

♥Julie♥

~All my tears....~

2010-02-24T21:26:00.002-06:00

When I die don't cry for me
In my father's arms I'll be

The wounds this world left on my soul
Will all be healed and I'll be whole

Sun and moon will be replaced
With the light of jesus face

And I will not be ashamed
For my saviour knows my name

It don't matter where you bury me
I'll be home and I'll be free

It don't matter where I lay
All my tears be washed away

Gold and silver blind the eye
Temporary riches light

Come and eat from Heavens store
Come and drink, and thirst no more

So weep not for me my friend
When my time below does end

For my life belongs to Him
Who will raise the dead again

It don't matter, where you bury me
I'll be home and I'll be free

It don't matter, where I lay
All my tears be washed away

It don't matter, they're washed away
It don't matter, they're washed away
It don't matter, they're washed away

Yeah, yeah, yeah
It don't matter where you bury me
Yeah, yeah, yeah
They're washed away
They're washed away

~Selah

~Crockpot Craziness!...~

2010-02-23T15:59:00.002-06:00

While blog surfing a couple of nights ago (I have horrible insomnia lately. Prayers would be very welcomed!)I stumbled upon this lovely blog! I just had to join in on the fun because as you know, I use my crockpot all of the time! I absolutely ♥ my crockpot! So, I dug up a few of my favorites to share with ya'll.

Crockpot Jambalaya

Julie's Spicy Spaghetti Sauce

Chili Chicken tacos (from Martha Stewart's Everyday Food)

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6) (we use half chicken breasts/half thighs)
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 cup prepared tomato salsa, plus more for serving (optional)
1 to 2 tablespoons chopped canned chipotle chiles in adobo
1 tablespoon chili powder
Coarse salt and ground pepper
8 hard corn taco shells (we use soft white corn tortillas)
Cilantro, shredded cheese, lime wedges, and sour cream, for serving (optional)

Directions

In slow cooker, combine chicken, garlic, salsa, chiles, chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and teaspoon pepper. Cover; cook on high, 4 hours (or on low, 8 hours).
Transfer chicken to a serving bowl, and shred, using two forks; moisten with cooking juices. Serve in taco shells, with toppings, if desired.

And, I would be terribly remiss if I didn't direct you to my fave crockpot site, Razzle Dazzle Recipes! (tons of favorites, here!)

Wow, that was fun!! Glad you stopped by & hope you come back!

♥Julie♥

~in my opinion, it's the man that makes the clothes, not the other way around...~

2010-02-23T14:50:00.000-06:00

"The clothes make the man"???? In my opinion, not hardly! Thoreau has some very interesting things to say about honest work and true manhood. Read on:
"No man ever stood the lower in my estimation for having a patch in his clothes; yet I am sure that there is greater anxiety, commonly, to have fashionable, or at least clean and unpatched clothes, than to have a sound conscience."

"I say, beware of all enterprises that require new clothes, and not rather a new wearer of clothes. If there is not a new man, how can the new clothes be made to fit?"

Above quotes from Walden, by Thoreau.

I found these quotes, although I have read them before, at Transformations, a lovely little blog. It would be worth your time to hop on over and read for a bit. Very encouraging lovely blog!

~Menu Plan for week of February 22nd~...

2010-02-21T15:55:00.001-06:00

breakfast:
~breakfast burritos
~strawberry cream cheese muffins
~whole wheat pancakes, fruit
~breakfast bowls
~oatmeal, fruit

lunch:
~pb&honey, whole wheat bread
~pizza pockets (low carb tortillas, spagh.sauce, meat, cheese)
~salads
~leftover pizza, fruit salad
~leftovers

snacks:
~Muffins
~homemade granola
~cheese sticks
~tortilla w/peanut butter & honey
~apples & peanut butter

supper:
~migas
~chili, cornsticks
~Pot roast, carrots, onions, mashed potatoes,
~Cowboy nachos w/leftover pot roast
~Italian chicken, brown rice, sweet potatoes
~homemade pizza, salad

♥Julie♥

a wonderful idea....

2010-02-20T13:52:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to pop in and share this blog post with you! A wonderful idea and actually, I find many of her posts to be very inspiring and helpful! Check it out if you have the time...Smooth Stones Academy.

♥Julie♥

sweet baby boy...

2010-02-20T08:19:00.000-06:00

Oh, how I love our sweet baby boy! Andrew, you are mama's ♥!

~Claire~

2010-02-19T22:20:00.000-06:00

Claire holding Drew in our "peace place". Claire & Lily working on their snowmen.

Our firstborn, Claire Victoria, turned 5 on February 15th! Tonight, I am going to tell you a few things about our Claire that are amazing to me..of course, she's my daughter so you may not find these things to be all that amazing but that's okay. :)

~Claire is a fighter. She was never expected to even make it to birth but she did. She was not breathing when she was born but she pulled through. She is such a strong little soul and we are so thankful that she is!!

~She is a helper. Claire is always helping with everything. She is my "big helper" as she likes to say. Whatever I need, she is right there. She has such a servant's heart and that makes this Mama's heart so happy and full. :) She is always finding ways to be kind to others and most especially, her sister and brother. We have our occasional argument but most of the time, she is so thoughtful and sweet and just an amazingly loving child. We are so truly blessed to call her ours!

~The pictures above are how you always see her. She is always loving on her sister and brother. Always concerned and affectionate. Such a little mama to others. :)

~She is most usually very obedient. Now, we do have our little problems and this week has been a bad week. However, usually, she is quick to obey and very pleasant to be around. And, that makes for a happy family. :)

~Claire (and her sister and brother) are just the answers to soooooo many prayers that we prayed and the promises of God that we claimed and believed in!!! God is SO good!!

Here's a few things she has done lately that I think are so very cute and Claire:

~She checks the mail at the mailbox.

~She helps Lily write her name. Every time.

~Has started making muffins almost completely by herself. All I do is stand by and supervise to make sure she remembers and puts everything in correctly. Lately, I don't even bother. :)

~She makes her bed every morning and reminds her sister and helps her to do the same.

~She fixes Lily, Drew and her toothbrushes every morning and night.

~She "reads" to her sister and brother and can actually already read a few words!!!!

Claire Victoria, you are such a sweet wonderful blessing and an amazing daughter to mama and daddy!!! We love you soooo very much, baby. Happy Birthday!!!!!!!

♥Julie♥

Family snow days....

2010-02-19T17:13:00.000-06:00

3 sweet children trying out snow ice cream!! It was a hit! (My secret is to use half and half or whipping cream, vanilla and sugar) Yum!

*Top pictures: Blogger won't let me post captions for some reason. Anyway, top pics:

~Daddy & Drew checking out the snow!

~Claire & Lily hitting mama with snowballs!

All of the rain & snow meant that Daddy had almost 2 weeks off of work. So, we took advantage of it and enjoyed every.last.second of the snow!! Hope you enjoy the pictures! More to come....

Happy Birthday, Claire-bear!!!! 5 years old...February 15th

2010-02-19T09:06:00.001-06:00

Monday, was Claire's 5th Birthday. We just had a little celebration at our house with our little family. Her birthday party will be Sunday after bible study! I'll try to caption these pics but blogger is being difficult so we will see what happens!

Pancakes w/strawberries & whipped cream-Claire's request!Cake made by Claire & Lily Claire & Lily proud of the cake they made!(Yes, entirely all by themselves!!!)

Claire's favorite present! A baby doll that cries and drinks its bottle...she named her, Hannah.

More to come, as soon as I can get blogger and my computer to cooperate! :)

Love is not a fight...

2010-02-18T12:01:00.000-06:00

Love is not a place
To come and go as we please
It's a house we enter in
And then commit to never leave

Lock the door behind you
Throw away the key
We'll work it out together
Let it bring us to our knees

Love is a shelter in the raging storm
Love is peace in the middle of a war
If we try to leave, may God send His angels to guard the door
No, love is not a fight but it's something worth fighting for

Warren Barfield - Love is Not a Fight

Please pray for me....

2010-02-17T08:44:00.002-06:00

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Proverbs 26:3 NIV

I would truly appreciate your prayers for me today. I am having a very rough week, struggling with anxiety and overall, just not being able to get it all together and feeling terribly tired and stressed and just really needing a break! I know, it is not anything terrible or life altering but I just really feel that I need prayer. I feel like I am grasping at straws and I really HATE that feeling!

Anyway, so please if you can spare the time, pray for me today. I am driving an hour and a half to take all 3 kids to the pediatrician and it's just going to be a rough day.

Love you all and always praying for you!

~Julie~

Education....

2010-02-16T11:44:00.000-06:00

I found this through Sally Clarkson's blog. A lovely place. If you don't read her blog, you are really missing out on some wonderful encouragement! I think this explains so many of our reasons for homeschooling! It's actually what we are all trying to accomplish in educating our children, homeschool or public school or private...whatever option you choose. This article gives some wonderful ideas. Please take a few minutes to read it.

~Julie~

Monday Meanderings...

2010-02-14T19:53:00.002-06:00

~Bible Study: This week, reading this and letting it soak in.

~Memory Verse:

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. James 1:2

~Zone: LAUNDRY and MOPPING (just trying to keep these two areas done) :)

~Must do's:

*Organize school materials!!!! (It's out of control!)

*Switch pediatricians.Take care of insurance.

*Make appointment to get new glasses.

~Something Special for my husband: order the orbital sander he wants!

~Fun things!!!

*Claire turns 5, tomorrow!!!!!! (I am so not ready for her to be 5) So, tomorrow night, we open gifts here and have her favorite supper & cake.. :) This year, she will help me cook. I can't wait!

*This weekend, we are planning a night away!! I really, really hope it goes well and everything just works smoothly for us to be able to go! I am so excited!!!

~Something we are excited about!!

*We just bought a minivan and paid cash for it!!!!!! YAY!!!! It's a used 2001 Chrysler Town and Country, it's loaded with everything you can imagine and it is wonderful......no more trying to cram 3 car seats and all of our stuff into my Nissan Sentra!!! YAY!!! We are loving our new ride and so are the kids!! And, best of all, NO MORE CAR PAYMENTS!!! Can I get an AMEN?? =D

Menu Plan:

Monday- Claire's birthday supper: Spaghetti & Italian sausage, Garlic rolls, steamed broccoli, birthday cake

Tuesday-Roast chicken, broccoli & cauliflower, rolls

Wednesday-Mexican cornbread, beans & smoked sausage

Thursday- Shredded chicken tacos(we are going to follow her lead) w/pico de gallo & guacamole, rice and beans

Friday- Party sandwiches, veggie tray w/dip, fruit tray (Family movie night)

Saturday- our night "away"- ordering in from Roma's....YUM :)

Well, that's our week in a nutshell!! Hope you have a great one! :)

Join us at Sarah's for more Monday Meanderings & Laura's for Menu Plan Monday!

~Julie~

Snow day!!!!!!!!

2010-02-13T09:44:00.000-06:00

Snow is very rare here so this was an unexpected wonderful treat!! We did the best we could to exhaust ourselves in the snow! The pitiful snowman was in our front yard and the snow had already started melting when we started building but still had fun, anyway! I will try to post more pictures of snow ice cream later today...I have an Italian Cream Cake to make for a special wedding tomorrow and I have to get started!!!

Blogger is not uploading all of my pictures...it says it does but then they don't show up???? Anyway, I will try again later!!!

daybook & links!!...

2010-02-09T15:37:00.000-06:00

I have done a few of these before and really enjoyed doing them! I actually try to do a variation of this almost every single day and print out to keep in my homemaking binder.I often just don't have the time to post it on the blog! I wanted to blog today and didn't really know what to blog about. This just came to my mind. :)

Bible verse: "Love your neighbor" Matthew 5:43(Our memory verse this week)

recipe: chicken tortilla soup & High Fiber Nutritious Oatmeal Cookies(recipe tomorrow!)

activity with kids: making cookies & homemade whole-wheat bread & pizza dough

today's target cleaning areas: laundry put away (only 2 loads today, Praise the Lord!!), bedrooms(everything in it's place)

Something Charlie needs for me to do: He's been home for 2 days...not much for me to do for him!

Something special for my husband: Making his favorite cookies.

Something special for my children: We are reading "Little House in the Big Woods" before naptime...they love it!! We read the chapter about the "Dance at Grandpa's (the sugar snow) today"..such fun!

project: working on the chicken coop! Tons of homeschooling computer work (aka research and planning) to do!!

on my bedside table: Traveling Light by Max Lucado and Crazy Love by Francis Chan...also, always, Sally Clarkson (right now, it's Ministry of Motherhood).. :)

In our schoolhouse: Oh boy, I have a bunch of links for you today!!

*This chore chart...love it!! We made Claire & Lily's this morning and I am just waiting on a chance to laminate them so we can get started! I will post pictures once we get that done. Here's a photo of the one on the provided.

*this blog is really cool! I found sooo many neat ideas here! 1+1=1 blog

*Making a Peace Place: (This is something I really really want to do in our home..peace is something I CRAVE with all my soul. I strive every day to make our home a peaceful haven and can always feel the negative effects when I don't give my 110% of my efforts.) I thought this was wonderful and started working immediately to put this into effect. Please read these links and use them to make your home a more peaceful environment for your family! We could always use more peace! :)

~A Holy Experience: Making a Peace Place

~The Homespun Heart: Create Rest

~The Homespun Heart: What's on the wall?

~Preschoolers and Peace: Part I

~Preschoolers and Peace: Part II

And, I have many more to share but it will have to late until later this week..naptime/quiet time is just about over and I have some supper preparations to attend to!

Here's a picture I would like to share with you today:

Eggs from our chickens!!! We get about 12 a day. We have about 40 more eggs in the refrigerator.. lol I

love having chickens..... :)

~Julie~

a little time, unplugged...

2010-02-06T13:34:00.000-06:00

I know that I have been MIA for awhile now but I will still be on a blogging/unplugged from the internet break for a little while longer. Thanks for reading and for understanding! Hope to see you back, soon! =D

Love,
Julie

random...

2010-01-28T15:20:00.000-06:00

It is supposed to be REALLY cold and icy here this weekend so I am, at this very moment, doing all the laundry up and baking various muffins and making meals to heat up, just in case the power goes out from the ice. I may sound crazy but we have been here before with no power for almost 2 weeks!!! We have electric appliances so I am getting prepared!! (We can use electricity for short amounts of time with a generator. Actually, it's a welder, lol)

Last night, I started a new book. I do not usually have time to read fiction but made an exception because I absolutely LOVE Karen Kingsbury books! In about 3 hrs. (with distractions from hubby and kids, lol) I read the entire book, "Between Sundays"...all I can say is, WOW.. Awesome book. Awesome message. I love books of redemption. There's a story in itself there, maybe someday I will share it. :)

We received an unexpected gift today. Can't say more about it at the present time but wow, God works in the every day. That's all I can say. He truly works. :)

Reading "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan for the third time. Reading it with my hubby this time. Amazing life-changing stuff. Really makes you think and sweat.

Eating a zero candy bar and drinking a Dr. Pepper/ haven't had a coke in 2 weeks and right now it taste so good, I don't care about the calories. That and I have a sinus headache so the coke helps. :)

I have become disenchanted with Jillian Michaels. I still believe her stuff is great and I still do the shred when I make the time but her attitude this season on The Biggest Loser???? Well, let's just say, she needs to can it. There is NO reason to talk to someone like they are trash. NONE. 'nuff said!!

And, that's my list of random for you! Hope you have an awesome weekend!! Praise God for all HE has done in your life....

Love,

~Julie~

Reasons why I am not a perfect mother,but my chilren love me, anyway...

2010-01-22T05:15:00.018-06:00

*Disclaimer: I say this not to be proud but actually, because I have been extremely hard on myself, lately and my husband, being the encourager that he is, suggested I write a list of why I am not perfect but my children love me anyway...LOL...so, here it is!! Enjoy and I would love to read your list, as well!! :)

(Image from Allposters.com)
* I occasionally feed them chocolate cake for breakfast (oh, yes, I have...and many other "sugary" delights, at times!)

* We do NOT do "proper" sit down school every day of the week. We are lucky to get "sit down school" done 3 days a week. The rest of the time, we read. Yes, we read. Whatever the girls want to read and even now, Drew will climb in my lap with his book of choice for reading and cuddles on the couch. :)

* We get happy meals. :)

* I let my kids watch movies...(not PG-13 or R movies...children's movies and some classics) and we eat popcorn and have snacks...we do this at least twice a week :)

* We make huge messes! We play LOUD music! We have music and art,almost every day!! This is one of my favorite times with my children! We put on some Christian music and we dance and/or create while listening to the music...you would NOT believe the wonderful discussions we have (especially as Claire gets older) and the beautiful artwork they do for "God and Jesus"..it's precious and so amazing to me!!

* My kitchen is sometimes a huge disaster! My kids help me cook almost every single meal and snack! Claire will be 5 in just 3 weeks...sniff. She already knows how to make so many things! She has recipes almost completely memorized!!

*My house is not spotless. At all. I have various "collections" of rocks, flowers, anything my kids find that interest them and they want Mommy to have! I have watched many kid's faces fall when they bring a new found treasure to their mom and she says in a stern voice, "Put that down" or "Just what I need, more junk!" I have found that my children are much more likely to share with me their thoughts and dreams and we are just closer if I just take that little bit of time to recognize and acknowledge their gift to me. When they give you something they found or picked, they are giving you a part of themselves. They are giving you a glimpse into their soul. Take the time. Appreciate their thoughtfulness. You are the most important influence in their little lives. Be gentle and let them know they are worthy of your time. :)

* We have our moments. My kids are kids and they try me, at times.I am learning right along beside them. Sometimes, I yell. I am too harsh with my words or punishment.(Rachel has a post worth reading about this) At times, I have wondered why in the world God ever answered my prayers for children! But, in the end, my children love me. I apologize when I am wrong and I sincerely try to correct myself and do better. I try with all my being to be the mother they need me to be. And, if I were a betting woman, I would say that you do, too. You are a WONDERFUL mother. You are the mother your children need. BE that mother. Don't let the world tell you otherwise!!! You have all you need to do the job-you are a child of the ALMIGHTY GOD!!!! Nothing is impossible with HIM!! If you mess up (and we all do) HE is there with HIS amazing GRACE!!! Now, go, ......be the Mama you were created to be!! =D

~Julie~

ABORTION....

2010-01-21T06:56:00.014-06:00

REPOSTED FROM 2007 ARCHIVES BY MY SISTER'S REQUEST...

This is a hard post to write and if you don't want to read it then you don't have to, it will not upset me in the least. After Lily was born I had some physical problems: excessive bleeding with huge clots, extreme exhaustion and fatigue, achiness and swelling in my abdomen. I also had extreme mood swings and horrible migraines. My gynocologist prescribed Yaz to help my symptoms. I took it for over 2 months before the bleeding stopped. The rest of my symptoms never did stop they just got a little better. I also began to be extremely anxious and irritable ALL of the time. I felt like I was losing control and didn't know what in the world was happening to me so after MUCH prayer and some articles we found that come from very trusted sources, we have decided to stop taking the pill. Mainly because there is other birth control that is a better option and I can use it without the conviction that I am doing something wrong. I had began to feel like birth control pills were wrong for me but I wasn't quite sure why it bothered me so much to take them until I read this article. I also read this article written by my cousin, Lacy Crowell. I know that the Lord was putting it on my heart not to take them and I am going to follow his leading. I cannot with a clear conscience take something that is going to starve to death my unborn child. I am telling you this so that you may know the truth they do not want you to know and so that you can make a more informed decision.

While I am on the subject of abortion, I want you to take a look at this post written by Jess at Making it Home. I warn you ahead of time, the links to the post are very hard to read and see, especially the ones with pictures of the aborted babies and the interview with the woman who worked in a lab dissecting the aborted precious babies to sell their body parts. I know that some people will not want to read it but I believe that it is necessary that we open our eyes to the truth. Reality is harsh, people ,but it is a fact of life. We have to educate ourselves and our children. We have to support unwed mothers(not make getting pregnant out of wedlock okay but spport their decision to raise their child or give it up for adopton), working mothers, those with many children and stop showing them disdain for getting themselves in "trouble "again. We have to look at children as the blessing from the Lord that they truly are. Until then, the abortion madness will continue to slaughter millions of innocent lives. Until then, innocent babies will be ripped out of their mothers wombs to lie dead or dying in a cold room with not one person who cares. Babies are our most precious gift from the Lord. No matter the circumstance, they are the most beautiful precious gift. What is wrong with a country that is so callous to human life? What have we become? Jess also has some wonderful suggestions on things we can do to support pregnant women, I plan on trying these myself and changing my attitude "You're having another one?"

I am not going to say anymore. Please read the links that I suggested and pray for these precious innocent babies.

Love and Prayers,

Julie

*For those who believe that I am crazy for discussing my personal life on here, I do believe things should stay personal, but in this case , I feel that I have to bring awareness to this, I have to let women know that birth control pills are not the "easy" solution they are made out to be. So, I am turning the comment moderator on for this post. Leave a comment but if it is ugly, mean or spiteful I will not publish it! Blessings to you and have a great day!

FREE Charlotte Mason E-book..Smooth-Easy Days...

2010-01-20T09:46:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to share this with you, quickly!! Then, I am off for a really long day of shopping and paying bills. I am excited, though, because we are going to get some materials for some new things I am wanting to try with the kids!!! Anyway, I found this E-book and wanted to make sure ya'll knew about it!! Here you go:

Smooth-Easy Days

Supper menus....

2010-01-19T18:29:00.003-06:00

Monday- Soft tacos, beans , chips & pico de gallo

Tuesday- Cheeseburgers, tator tots

Wednesday- Chili, cornsticks

Thursday- breakfast bowls (PW cookbook), fruit salad

Friday- Autumn Chowder, cornsticks

Saturday-Red beans & rice, salad

Sunday-Angel Hair Marinara w/Italian Chicken, garlic rolls, salad

Homeschooling (a list of helpful resources & tips)....

2010-01-19T16:09:00.001-06:00

* I have had a few questions about homeschooling: how we do it, why we do it, etc. So, I am going to be doing a few of these and adding them to my sidebar. This one is just a list of websites, blogs, books, etc. that we use to homeschool our children. It is my hope that you may find something that can help you and that you enjoy this little peek into our daily lives!

~To start at the very beginning, I use the Babywise series with our children. (Babywise, Toddlerwise,Preschoolwise, etc.) I find that a schedule works wonders!! I did not say a "rigid" schedule. I could never do that and if you know me, you would be laughing! lol To me it is more of a routine! I understand these books are controversial but we love them!

~ All Sally Clarkson books! Oh, they are amazingly well written and so wonderfully soothing to an exhausted mother's heart! I can not recommend them highly enough!

~And, some blogs and websites: (There are so many of these! I will have to come back and add to this post again and again!)

*Chasing Cheerios

*No Time For Flashcards

*Donna Young

*Handedness Research (teaching left-handers to write. Claire is left handed)

*Best Homeschooling

*Learning 4 Fun!

*Enchanted Learning

*Free Printables

*ABC Teach(more free stuff)

*Ambleside(CM)

*Charlotte Mason

*DLTK-free crafts, bible lesson plans, etc.

*Growing Minds of Wisdom

*Jan Brett

*Jeannie Fulbright

*Letter of the Week

*Mustard Seeds

*Worksheet Works

*The Learning Page (free stuff)

*Starfall

*Simply Charlotte Mason

Okay, there are TONS more that we use! I will put the links up as I get a chance to do so. Right now,I have laundry to fold and put away, schoolwork to go over for tomorrow and life to live with my precious children!! See you soon!

~Julie~

Nothing....

2010-01-18T13:35:00.000-06:00

"Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. NOTHING is too hard for you!!!!" (emphasis & exclamation points, mine) Jeremiah 32:17

Nothing. Not one single thing is too hard for our GOD. What does this mean in my life? How does this apply to MY current needs?? How about yours???

Texas Red Sauce....

2010-01-17T23:20:00.000-06:00

I found this economical tasty way to make your own red sauce awhile back and have been wanting to share it with you! I finally got the chance! I don't have a picture right now but we are having these for supper tomorrow night so I will try to get one posted! Hope you enjoy! These are GOOD!!! :)

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons flour

5 teaspoons red chili powder

1 1/2 teaspoons cumin

2 teaspoons garlic powder

6 ounces tomato paste

2 1/4 cups water or half chicken broth

salt and pepper

Directions

Melt butter/margarine in a sauce pan.
Make a roux by browning flour in melted butter/margarine.
Add spices and tomato paste; stir until well blended into roux.
Add water gradually, stirring constantly.
Heat until boiling.
Continue simmering and stirring until desired thickness is achieved.
Taste every so often and adjust spices as needed.
Once desired consistency and taste is reached, coat the bottom of a pan with the sauce, add freshly rolled enchiladas, then pour the remainder of the red sauce over enchiladas.
Place pan in oven and cook until enchiladas are done.

New Year..New Goals!!

2010-01-17T16:17:00.000-06:00

I have put a lot of thought into these and already I am struggling in most of these areas...nothing like growing pains! So, without further ado..my personal goals for the coming year and beyond...

*First of all, I want to get back to writing! Not just posting pictures and recipes but actual writing! Since the blessings of our children, my mind is oftentimes to cluttered with to-do's and lists and the constant merry-go-round of life to sit in silence and listen to what my Lord is telling me.I am a writer. God uses writing to cleanse me. I am one who loves to sit in the quiet late at night after everyone is in bed with just a lamp and my bible. I love to pray to God and I truly feel complete when I hear him speak to my heart!! I want more of that!! I want to carve out the time for more of my Savior. I oftentimes put him in the entirely wrong place. I want to make HIM my true first priority!!!

*I want more patience with my precious children. I am oftentimes short tempered and extremely irritable with those who are most dear to my heart. I so want to be a mother who is kind and soft spoken and warm and loving and patient.. I am those things, at times, but I truly desire for this to be me, at all times!!!! I hate when I lose my temper and yell at my children or say terrible things to them. Actually, I want to improve in this area with my husband, as well...

* I desire to be a more dedicated, loving wife. I truly want to be 100% focused on my family first and foremost and my husband before all other things in life. I want to pray for him every single day and I wish for more focused time together as a couple. I want to talk more and learn more every day about my wonderful husband.

*I want to stop eating when I am upset. Chewing my nails really needs to go, as well!! Yuck!! I am going to have to learn to put things in their proper place and truly leave everything up to our Heavenly Father.

* To exercise at least 3 days a week. With homeschooling, this is VERY difficult to achieve but I am determined to give it a try...also, cutting out unhealty carbs and cokes. Trying to make healthier choices and stick with them. I am going to keep a journal of what I eat and see if I can keep up with it better, that way.

* To be a better friend. I want to make sure that others know just how important they are to me! How much I truly love them and are grateful and sooooo blessed to have them in my life!! Please, more time to focus on my friends and family!!

*MUCH LESS time on facebook!!! I hate being sucked in by the internet and I find it happening to me, more and more. I need much more time to focus on so many other things in my life...the important things!! Facebook is such a struggle for me. I think it becomes something that we, as woman, especially, become to rely on for validation.(another post on this coming up, I think!) And, that is dangerous. Don't get me wrong, facebook can be great when it is used in moderation and as an occasional thing. I don't want to be so stuck on the computer that I forget to live life and give my family what they NEED.......which is, well, more of ME!! How can I give them that when I am stuck on the computer?? Not talking to anyone but myself, these are MY goals and MY personal struggles! If you have it all balanced, I am going to give you kuddos!!! That's great!!

*We are starting some debt reducing solutions this year. I plan to do a post about those, soon! I am going to be doing some RADICAL things in this area to pay off our mortgage a few years quicker!! (More to come, soon!)

*Reading, more reading!! (for me and my family) This is always on my list. =D

*More playtime with my children. More deliberate planned time with them. If I can take time out to do these other things, I can plan a few blocks of time a week to do wonderful fun little things with my babies!

*Trying to be more real.I am soooo tired of all the "fake" we, as Christians, show everyone we meet! You may not read my blog ever again but sometimes I feel like I have to be real and get some things out! I may work them out by writing (I do that a lot) and I may publish them or not..but, I feel like I need to share more. Not necessarily private things but just struggles I have as a normal wife and mother and most of all, as a follower of Jesus! If we don't show others that we struggle, they will never see God at work!! They will never see how he carries us, how HE delivers us!!! It's vital to show others our normal selves! VITAL!!

Well, I think I have many more but there's a start for you!! Happy New Year!!!!

~Julie~

random pictures... (more to come...)

2010-01-16T10:41:00.000-06:00

pictures from Christmas...

2010-01-15T16:05:00.000-06:00

This is a test post because blogger is freaking out on me!! It says my pictures are uploaded but it won't post them...AGHHH!!
please ignore until I can get it fixed!!

things about me..

2010-01-14T16:30:00.000-06:00

I've done these before but it's been quite a while and I am bored and it's been a rough day so, here goes...

Lily & Mama on the swings at the city park last year..

* I LOVE Coldstone Creamery's Cake Batter ice cream. Plain. Just the ice cream, no toppings. It's my husband's fave, as well.

*I make cake batter & cookie dough just to eat it, not bake it. (sometimes)

*I am doing a surprise birthday party for my Mama tomorrow and I am really nervous. Here's the menu: chicken spaghetti, olive cheese bread, salad, red velvet cake. Does that sound good to you??

*my shoe size is huge. 10. It was a 9 but then I had children. lol

*I am almost 5'8 so I guess my foot is not that big.

*I love brown. It is one of my absolute favorite colors. And red.

*I am reading 6 different books at one time. A little bit of each one, here and there. I have a problem with focusing. lol

*I LOVE gospel music!!!! My all time favorite group is Selah. Their newest CD is amazing!!

*My favorite author is Sally Clarkson. She's so inspiring and motivating in such a peaceful, wonderful way.

*I love goofy fuzzy socks. :)

*I still use the same brand of cleanser on my face that I used in High School..Neutrogena?? ( I don't know, I would have to go look!) cream. (the white kind in the blue jar)...I love the smell and the tingly feeling. :)

*I love snowmen. I love to decorate with them.

*I love to do laundry but I hate to fold it and put it away.

*I love sweet tea.

*I love too hard, sometimes.

*We homeschool.

*It's bugging me to write so many I's....

*I love the book of John.

*Also, Psalms & Hebrews, are some favorites.

*I heart Cruel Girl Jeans.

*I have a tracfone.

*I am one of the cheapest, tightest people with money that I know.

*We are dedicated Dave Ramsey followers.

*I wish I were craftier but I have learned it will come with time. First things, first.

*I got married at 18.

*We were married 7 years before Claire was born. Then proceeded to have 2 more children in the next 3 years.

*We are still pondering that one... lol

* I love Dr. Pepper but it doesn't love my hips.

*I have tried to do the shred with Jillian Michaels but it is an off and on relationship. Currently, not going so well.

*I love fashion and clothes and makeup.

*My favorite book right now is "The ministry of Motherhood." I refer to it almost constantly.

*We belong to a wonderful amazing homeschool group!

*My favorite food is my husband's guacamole & pico de gallo and a nice juicy steak. Dessert would be cheesecake. Yum...

Well, that's enough for now! I am getting bored of myself. Pray for those in Haiti and give if you can, at all!!!

personally, Calgon's never done it for me (but God has!)...

2010-01-14T08:03:00.000-06:00

“Go after a life of love as if your life depended on it— it does.” I Cor14:1 Loosen up. Don’t you have some people to hug, rocks to skip, or lips to kiss? . . .It’s time to retire. Not from your job, just retire from your attitude. Honestly, has complaining ever made the day better? Has grumbling ever paid the bills?...... Has worrying about tomorrow ever changed it?Let someone else run the world for a while.Max Lucado

how my husband provides for our family.....

2010-01-12T16:25:00.000-06:00

People often ask me what in the world my husband does...well, this...

He is the one in the yellow safety vest. It's kind of funny because in the first pic, it looks like he's getting a lecture but he's not! The guy pointing his finger is talking to the guy behind him taking the pictures, ha! :) This is a hydro-ax and it cuts down trees. This is what he leaves me early every morning and comes home late every night to do!! He doesn't make a tremendous amount of money but he is a dedicated worker and he is the best at what he does and he provides for us.

If you look closely, you will see the trees where the ax is turned over...that's the side of a mountain right there. This was when Lily was about 4 months old. Charlie turned his ax over (happens all the time) and could have rolled down the mountain. So, you see why every morning when he leaves the house, I must make a conscious decision to leave him in God's hands. So must all wives, I am sure. But, not every wife's husband dangles off the sides of mountains for a living!!!!

Just wanted to brag on my baby a little bit and thought this would be a fun post! A fun peek into our daily life.

Have a blessed week!!

a bit of wisdom from the late President Reagan...

2010-01-11T15:28:00.000-06:00

“To sit back hoping that someday, some way, someone will make things right is to go on feeding the crocodile, hoping he will eat you last — but eat you he will.” Ronald Reagan

thoughts, anyone?????

The garden of our children's hearts...

2010-01-08T09:30:00.000-06:00

From Today's Proverbs 31 ministries devotional:

What if we considered our children's hearts and lives as a garden? The principles of sowing and reaping apply as well. Every day we sow into those "gardens" through our words, behavior, and the disciplines we teach them. However, just like a vegetable garden, if we plant carrot seeds, we will reap carrots – not corn. Consequently, if we sow negative seeds of discouragement, we will reap despair. If we sow seeds of impatience, we will reap frustration. If we sow seeds of laziness, we will reap stress.

Conversely, if we sow healthy seeds of good choices, we will reap self-discipline. If we sow seeds of patience, we will reap peace. If we sow seeds of perseverance, we will reap success. Our children's hearts are rich soil prepared by God to receive good seed. As conscientious gardeners, we need to plant those that will reap a harvest in our children's lives and prepare them for service in the kingdom of God.

What if you don't see results right away? That's normal. After a few days, the farmer doesn't get frustrated with slow growth and rip the seeds out of the ground. No. The farmer continues to water the soil, shoo the birds away, and pull the weeds. The farmer protects the seed until it has a chance to grow in its own time.

God designed our children to grow and flouris h with love and care. However, failure can be the weeds in our children's lives. Weeds don't destroy the good seed, they just leech the nutrients out of the soil limiting the growth of the plant. Failure doesn't destroy our children's potential; it just removes the enthusiasm from their hearts.

In order to overcome the pain and heartache of failure, children need a parent who will step in with fresh water and bright sunlight, while replacing the weeds with healthy seed. With this tender care, perseverance and self-discipline will grow and develop. Then in time, our children will produce a harvest of confidence. May we be gardeners who don't give up until the harvest.

Dear Lord, I praise You for Your almighty power and wisdom. Thank You for making me with potential to grow and change. Help me to see that same potential in those I love and to become a gardener of healthy seed in their lives. Help me to see failure as something to overcome, not stop me for a live of obedience. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

*Now, I am off to sow some good seeds!!! Have a blessed day!!

~Julie~

Slow Fade...

2010-01-08T07:23:00.001-06:00

Slow Fade,by: Casting Crowns

Slow Fade:

Be careful little eyes what you see
It’s the second glance that ties your hands as darkness pulls the strings
Be careful little feet where you go
For it’s the little feet behind you that are sure to follow

It’s a slow fade when you give yourself away
It’s a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
It’s a slow fade,
it’s a slow fade

Be careful little ears what you hear
When flattery leads to compromise, the end is always near
Be careful little lips what you say
For empty words and promises lead broken hearts astray

*This song used to be on my playlist. I need to put it back up along with some others. I can never listen to it enough. I pray that those who open their hearts to these words may never forget the truth they hold. Be very careful, very, very, careful. Please.

Love to all,
Julie

If we build it...it will come!!

2010-01-06T07:46:00.000-06:00

We are praying for snow here!! If it is going to be this stinkin' cold (around 5 degrees tonight) WE WANT SNOW!!!! Sorry, ya'll that are used to below zero temps..I have seen 5 degrees maybe twice in my entire life so I am a wimp!!! 30 is FREEZING to me...and we hardly ever get snow.

So, I found this cute craft! Try it for yourself and show it off! I will try to take pictures and post them sometime later.

Monday Meanderings....(on Tuesday)

2010-01-05T15:10:00.000-06:00

~ Scripture memorization: 1 Peter (the entire chapter; I will be working on this ALL month long)

~zone: homeschooling bookshelf and laundry pile

~Training them up:

*chore chart
*working on Mama's attitude, this week!
*doing our Bible reading & devotional activity every.single.morning (first thing!!!)
*Somehow studying and learning new starts, do-overs, whatever you want to call them! I want to teach them GRACE and how to change your actions and follow through as a new creature (does anyone get what I am saying???) to REALLY rely on God to change you. Any ideas?????

~Things I MUST do:

*put chore chart up & actually follow it! :)
*clean out car (lol, AGAIN)
*come up with a better laundry system (any ideas??) Right now, I am doing around 5 loads a day (no joke) and it is killing me!!
*Finish reading John by Beth Moore
*work on surprise for hubby for our anniversary
*homeschool schedule revised & followed!!!!
Whoa! I've got soooo much to do!!

~Husband Encouragement:
*Surprise for our anniversary
*make breakfast and freeze it for his 4 am wake-up time..so I don't have to get up and cook but he still has a hot breakfast to enjoy that he doesn't have to cook at 4 a.m. or buy and spend 6-7 dollars a day (and that's cheap!!) No thank you. So, I am making extra burritos,pancakes and muffins again and freezing and going to try to make his breakfast at 4 am at least once a week and stay up to pray and just have quiet time. I really love the early morning.

Fun things:

~Anniversary trip later this month!!
~Supper out this weekend
~shopping with my babies tomorrow...this is really fun when they are cooperative! :)

Menu Plan: (Most of these recipes are from the Pioneer Woman's cookbook(which I LOVE) some of them are on her website, here.

Breakfast:

*Pumpkin-cream cheese muffins
*Sour Cream pancakes, bacon (PW cookbook)
*Breakfast Burritos
*Migas (PW cookbook)
*Yogurt, granola, apples
*Burritos
*Pioneer Woman's Cinnamon Rolls, bacon, fruit salad (Sunday breakfast)

Dinner:

*Pizza
*Mac & Cheese
*leftovers
*PB& Honey on homemade bread & bananas
*Pizza pockets
*salad, cheese sticks
*Sunday dinner: Chicken Spaghetti, olive cheese bread, salad, Flat Apple Pie (PW cookbook)

Supper:

*Pot Roast, mashed potatoes, green beans
*Italian chicken, brown rice, baked sweet potatoes
*Migas, pico de gallo & chips
*Tortilla soup, guacamole
*Comfort Meatballs (PW), mashed potatoes,steamed cabbage
*leftovers or homemade pizza

dessert this week: Flat apple pie & Cheesecake

Link up at Sarah's for more Monday Meanderings & OrgJunkie for more Menu Plan Mondays(except it's Tuesday for me, lol)...

my favorite Christmas present!!!!!!....

2010-01-01T19:04:00.000-06:00

order here!!! I love you, baby. Thank you SOOO much!!! :)

Please pray for me....

2009-12-31T16:31:00.000-06:00

"Forget the former things; do not dwell in the past." Isaiah 43:18

Please pray for me right now!!! I am having some major struggles and I desperately need healing from the past...God has redeemed me but Satan is trying to snare me in and make me feel unworthy and angry. I truly do need your prayers and thank you so much for taking the time to pray for me!!!

Prayers, please!!!

2009-12-31T15:47:00.000-06:00

I don't know all of the details so I will just send you over to my friend, Denise's blog for the rest of the story.... and please pray!!!!