simply my thoughts

The list

2012-01-16T16:12:00.000-08:00

1000. The numberseems taunting at first. Could I reallyfind 1000 things in my life to be thankful? Some days the thankfulness comes soeasy. Everything is sunshine anddaisies.

· Watching my five year old play with Barbies

· Listening to Pandora worship station at work

· Watching the Passion Conference online

· Lunch with my daughter

Other days the thanks has to be dug for like a buried treasure. I know it is there, but I cannot see it atfirst glance. It is taking time to be quiet (my word for the year) andto think of the things that are blessing my heart.

· Second chances

· New starts at a fresh week

· Letting go of resentment

· Feeling better after being ill

This counting has been a healing balm to my spirit. A healing that I did not realize that Ineeded.

I recently finished reading Kisses from Katie and as I readof her life in Uganda, and the lives of those where she lives I realize that Ihave so much. So stinking much to bethankful for yet sometimes I choose ingratitude. Counting continually reminds me of the Giverof all good gifts. The little journalthat sits on the end table waiting for me to add gifts to it beckons me to addto the list. Once I start the list growsand grows. But I have to choose tostart. Consider joining Ann with her January list to get you started.

A mini-revival

2012-01-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

Image http://homegrownhospitality.typepad.com/homegrown_hospitality/

I love formulas. Notnecessarily the mathematical sort but the “if X then Y” sort. If I do this thenthis will happen. If my attitude is thisthen the outcome will be such. I lovethe idea that there is predictability. Control. I am fooling myself.

I live in a home with six other people. As much as I would like it to be different, Ihave no control over them. Yes, I canmake consequences, but I cannot control. And I really don’t think it is in their or my best interest if I do thecontrolling anyways. But at times I wantto know the outcome. If I teachgratitude my children will be grateful. If I value cleanliness my children will pick up after themselves. If I make them well balanced meals my familywill be healthy. If my children see mevalue church and the Lord they will also. If I pray enough in the morning I will have a blessed day. If I am nice enough then my relationshipswill all go well (for me).

What I do have control over is me. My attitude, my response, my actions. And that. Is. It.

I feel my Spirit is in a sort of revival. I have a new desire for Scripturememory. For journaling during quiettime. A hunger to know more of Him. To encourage others. To give grace frivolously. Because if grace is undeserved then whyshouldn’t it be given frivolously? Iwant to receive that kind from Him. AndI want to give that to others.

Word for 2012

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Quiet

What are my hopes for 2012?

Quiet.

Quiet my mouth. Be careful what I say and use the KNT (Kind NecessaryTrue) rule. So much of my opinion isreally not needed nor does it do any good in encouraging others. I want to givegrace frivolously. This video was veryconvicting to my heart. How much graceis enough? I guess that depends on whether you are giving or recieving.

Quiet my spirit. My life is busy. Thatis not going to change. What I amlearning is that I can quiet my spirit no matter where I am or what is goingon. It is my choice. It happens inside my heart and peaceenvelopes. I have been practicing thislately and what a difference it makes. Ihave to say I have also failed miserably at times and that is OK too. I will just keep practicing because it bringsa beautiful peace.

“Be still and knowthat I AM God.”

I have really enjoyed this Christmas break. I have checked so many things off my to-dolist. I have spent time listening tomusic, crafting, reading, sewing, and drawing. All those things make me slow down, think and process. I need to do that more. It is healthy for all involved.

Time with God needsto be a priority. Quality time tojournal. Time to meditate on HisWord. I am taking the challenge tomemorize and meditate on the book Colossians. I am fearful that I will fail and give up but I am going to start and Iam going to try.

Quiet my appetites. Appetites for things that are not good forme. Foods that are of no benefit and eaten too often. Appetites for things that are not needed yetdesired. Appetites for stuff that 6months from now will end up at Goodwill or broken. Appetites to surf Pinterest aimlessly justbecause it is endless and the next great find might be just a click away. Appetite to surf Facebook for a bit ofinformation that I really don’t need to know that will only feed my appetitefor judgment.

Quiet.

Happy New Year! May2012 bring you many blessings.

Connected

2011-12-16T10:18:00.000-08:00

I am joining with Gypsy Momma today...

I watched several preschool programs this week. That is my blessing being a preschool director. Children singing to their mommies and daddies. Oversized hand motions with big smiles. So proud of what they had learned and so proud to have someone they loved watching them.

One boy yells "That is my Nanny!"

A little girls eyes light up when she sees her daddy.

A shy child holds her hand over her mouth but is secretly glad that she is performing for momma.

After the performance the children have opportunity to create a holiday treasure with their someone special. The adults have come into the child's envorment. It is our chance to be a child again and enjoy the simplicity of popcicle sticks, pom-poms, glue and glitter.

Yet, some of these adults cannot or will not connect. They are still plugged into their cell phones texting while their child creates. They sigh and look at their watch. They ask me "How long do I have to stay?"

I wonder how often do I do that. Do I linger too long at the computer? Do I acknowledge their question? Do I hear their voices? Or am I too caught up in things that really don't matter to connect? Pinterest, blogging and facebook can wait.

Help me Lord to hear and see so I can connect with people and with You.

1000 gifts

2011-12-12T14:15:00.000-08:00

http://www.aholyexperience.com

I recently started reading Ann Voskamps' 1000 gifts. What started as hard to read has turned into can't put down. I am searching for moments that I can fill my eyes with her words and create my own list. I am now carrying a little journal to document as I go. Because waiting until night I just might forget. This list keeping is making my smile more. I 'see' things in front of me. It slows my pace of life just by the smallest amount, yet enough. Enough for me to breathe in grace, thanksgiving and joy.

Red tutu's on my 5 year old asian beauty
Listening to one of my children pick up an instrument of thier choice and worship
Sharing with friends who are on a similar journey with God teaching similar truths - yet so individual
Preschoolers singing Away in a Manger across from my office
Sloppy homemade ornaments made in pride for mom & dad
The Written Word
Smell of Christmas baking
A sweet text from my hubby
My 15 year old son putting his arm around his momma
Sharing hope with a discouraged friend

Practicing

2011-12-10T08:25:00.001-08:00

I sat on the couch with my youngest as she practiced herreading. She is still struggling withthe small little word “the”. As we cometo it again she tries to sound it out and I tell her this is just one of thosewords you have to memorize. It doesn’tsound out. And we keep reading. Keep practicing.

We do it with spelling words, parts of speech and multiplicationtables. In biology, it is classifications,in chemistry it is the element chart. Weare all practicing. Drilling in information or concepts that are needed. Needed to take us to the next.

“Practice is the hardest part of learning, and training is the essence of transformation.”

These words are profound to me. I want so much to realize Truth and have itbe so. Yet, it takes practice. Simply knowing is not enough. I have to let it be so. I have to practice. Just like my 5 year oldmust practice reading to become a better reader. Just like my 5^th grader mustpractice fractions for them to become easier. Just like my 8^th grader practices her algebra to get betterat equations. Just like my 9^thgrader drills kingdoms, phylum, class, families, etc. to better understandlife. Just like my college studentmemorizes body functions I never knew existed and I don’t understand to getinto a nursing program.

Practice is the hardest part of learning.

For the lessons that God is teaching me I mustpractice. I must practice Hisgrace. I must practice His truth. I must practice thanksgiving.

And this training is the essence of transformation.

Just breathe

2011-12-06T04:00:00.000-08:00

I am linking up with Emily @Chatting at the sky for Tuesday's unwrapped.

God usually speaks in themes in my life. In teaching terms I suppose I wouldsay that we (God and I) have been going through a unit study. A unit study isone that the same subject is used across the curriculum. This is a great way toteach because of repetition and consistency. It all flows and learning is natural. God is the perfect teacher.

I love how themes will connect in areas of my life. What I am reading, a song on the radio, asermon, or a conversation with a friend. God does all this to make His point. To help me to learn His lessons. Sometimes I have to smile as the same theme emerges again andagain. “Yes, Lord, I am seeing. I am getting it.” Other times I react offended. “Are you kidding me? Are we still on this, Lord?” This week I am smiling. I am getting it. I am working on respondingwith His eyes, His voice, and His heart instead of reacting in my judgments, myopinions, and my selfishness. To take the grace He has richly given and rest and enjoy.

Joy is

2011-12-05T08:49:00.001-08:00

"Joy

is always a function of gratitude and

gratitude

is always a function of perspective.

we are going to change our lives, what we're

ing to have to change is the way we see."

From Ann Voskamp

Perspective

2011-12-04T16:46:00.001-08:00

As I sat in church this morning way up in the back of the balcony singing seasonal hymns and songs I felt a wave wash over me. A wave of praise and gratitude to Jesus. It caught me a bit off guard. I feel myself coming out of a long, long drought. And it feels good. As my perspective changes I can feel the rain starting to sprinkle over my soul and my spirit is renewed. Circumstances and people remain the same, yet I have a peace that God is in control of everything and that is enough. I am learning to let the peace of God rule.

We watched Seven Days in Utopia this weekend. It was so good. I highly recommend it. It is a great reminder about what life is all about. Perspective is everything.

Wednesday we had this amazing couple come to speak to our youth group. Kathleen is absolutely amazing. Amazing. She is such an incredible woman of God. I was so blessed to meet her in person and hear her story told in her voice. To meet Cale and to see him smile. Amazing. Again, it is all in your perspective.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:15-16

This song blesses me. God is worth my praise all the time. In the dessert of my spirit, in the fire of my trial, in my battle and in the harvest. It is all in my perspective. I choose to let my attitude be that of Christ.

Hillsong United
Desert Song lyrics

VERSE 1:
This is my prayer in the desert
When all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
My God is the God who provides

This is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved
Of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flame

I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here

This is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on it's way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand

BRIDGE:
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

This is my prayer in the harvest
When favour and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I've received I will sow

Here we go Fa la la la la....

2011-11-30T14:40:00.001-08:00

Today is the last day of November. That means for this elf tomorrow officialstarts the Christmas season. I already have about half of my gifts purchased,lights up outside, and a few decorations up inside but tomorrow it is official.I am praying that my heart will stay in November's thankfulness. That I cantruly enjoy the reason for the season and not be burdened by expectations thatare heaped upon me either by other or myself. I will treasure the wonder of thegift that was given so long ago. I will choose wisely and carefully what I willcommit to, partake of, and work towards. I will let my "yes" be forthings that matter to me and my family. "Yes" to baking favoritetreats. “No to baking plates full ofcomplicated creations. "Yes" to leisure shopping trips. “No” tostressful Power Shopping and conquering the mall. “Yes” to thoughtful gifts. “No” to trinkets that we do not need. "Yes” to watching Christmas themed servicesthat provoke worship. "No" toobligations that bring stress and needless busyness. "Yes" to smiling more and "no" to grumbling.
Let’s do this!

Thanks for the complaint

2011-11-17T13:38:00.001-08:00

“If God really works ineverything, why don’t we thank Him for everything? Why do we accept good from His hand — and not bad?”

“I never likedMondays, or bad news or breaking in new shoes. And morning when I can’t find my phone. Nobody likes traffic, or short nights, or sit-ups or long flights, butsometimes that’s just the way it goes. It’s funny what You use to help me grow.” – Mandissa – These Days

We are all heading into the week of Thanksgiving. I have seen lots of lists of things peopleare thankful for circulating both on blogs and on Facebook. I have even felt a bit guilty for now makingmy own list. It would have been veryeasy to post something that I am thankful for each day of the month. My husband, my children, my parents, my home,my friends, etc. It is so easy to bethankful for the blessings. Thegood. The easy. The things that make me happy. The things I enjoy. But what about all the rest of life. The bad, the hard, the things that bring myfrustration, the things I don’t look forward to? Am I thankful for those?

James 1:2

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, wheneveryou face trials of many kinds, becauseyou know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that youmay be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

So from now until Thanksgiving I will purpose to be thankfulfor the things, situations and people that test my faith for the purpose ofperseverance to finish its work that I may be mature and complete lackingnothing.

Today I am thankful for complaints against me. Whether it be in the form of not pleasing someonein my home, an extended family member, someone at my workplace or someone atchurch. This helps me learn the lessonthat I cannot please everyone. Itreminds me that I am the servant and not The Source. Although sometimes I feel I may not bepleasing anyone, I know that is not truth. Today I purpose to do what I can with what I have and to put priority onpleasing the only one that matters, Jesus. And in pleasing Him I am bound to please some of the others.

Thanksgiving. Perspective. Grace.

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

These three words have been on my mind. I am learning how they all go together.

I am not nearly as thankful as I should be. I am very happy for the peoplein my life, my circumstances and the material goods I have but happiness doesnot equal gratitude. My perspective needs to change.

Sometimes...most of the time...my focus is on the immediate. The problem.The solution. The squeaky wheel. If I could just tweak my perspective just ateeny tiny bit to see people and situations through the eyes of the One who isin control of the situations and loves the people I would have more peace in the middle and more grace.

Grace to fill the holes of all that lacks. Not because it is the finalingredient of what people, situations or me do not measure up to. Not becausewhen all else fails grace comes in to save the day. God is not pleased with my stuff and filling in with a measure of Himself where needed. I was never meant tomeasure up. People, circumstances and things were never meant to fulfill. Ineed His grace. All of it. It is the one and only ingredient and no matter what I have to offer grace alone is enough. All my stuff is accepted and desired only as a love offering. Nothing more. Nothing less. And for that I truly am thankful.

Happy Day Project Review

2011-11-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

I so enjoyed the Happy Day Project. It was just what I needed to jump back into blogging.

God has been speaking to me in the theme of 'Do What You Can With What You Have' and this was a perfect way for me to apply what I have been learning.
The acts of kindess that were done this week were not done in Mathat Stewart fashion. There were no clever tags attached to the project. I did not deliver gourmet dinners. Just simple. I did what I could with what I had and you know what? It felt good. It felt good to not stress about the details of making something perfect and instead focus on the heart behind the act. It felt good to have my husband comment on me not being stressed out to have folk over for dinner. It felt good to do things God's way without self-imposed expectations that were just out of reach.

It amazes me that I am still learning about myself. I really thought I would be so much more grown-up by now. More mature. More together. More confident. More. Although there has been much work done in this heart of mine over the 21 years since I said "yes" to Jesus there is still much refining that needs to be done. Flowerpatch Farmgirl spoke beautifully what my heart was thinking this week regarding the gentle work of the Father...

"He works one chamber at a time changing small pieces. He lights the spark of willingness and tunes the strings of brokeness and grace"

I cannot do the work on my own. I need His help. I need the help of my like-minded fellow travelers who are also on a journey to the same place. Christ-likeness. Their path may look different than mine but we can encourage eachother to press on.

Although I may need work and I am seeing more and more that I am not enough on my own, I am also learning new lessons on grace thanks to this book written by this girl. I am feeling a freedom to just be. To just rest. And that through Him I am enough.

Happy Day Project Day 5

2011-11-11T08:13:00.001-08:00

Today's project is to bring refreshment. According to the dictionary...

Refreshment:  noun 

1.something that refreshes,  especially food or drink.

2.refreshments, articles or portions of food or drink, especially for a light meal.

3.the act of refreshing  or the state of being refreshed.

Tonight my husband is having the leadership of our youth group over for dinner.  In keeping with the theme of doing what I can with what I have it will be a simple spread of pasta, salad and bread with a chocolaty dessert.  

My goal is for these dear people that serve our students, who most of the time are very ungrateful for the sacrifices that the adults in their lives have given for them, will leave refreshed and encouraged to press on.

Have a happy day!  

Happy Day Project Day 4

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

As I said yesterday, Wednesdays for us are busy so the gift card for the homeless will have to wait til the weekend. After reading this post it really got me thinking about what I believe about those I see on the street. I am intrigued to read the book she recommended. Especially when I saw Francis Chan wrote the forward for it.

Today's project is book for a friend. I love books! I really do. I just received a book from Amazon for my 15 year old son that we are going to read together Do hard things by Alex & Brett Harris so I am going to let this count for today's project.

In addition I thought I would give you a list of some of my all time favorites.

Crazy Love & Forgotten God by Francis Chan

Surrender, Holiness & Brokeness Trilogy by Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

A life that says welcome by Karen Ehman

The power of a praying woman by Stormie Omartian - also praying parent and praying wife are all equally great.

Have a happy day!

Happy Day Project Day 3

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

So I imagined sitting down with a cup of coffee creating this long lovely note to an unsuspecting yet well deserving soul that would warm their heart. In this dream I was also writing with a quill and a bottle of ink.Reality was a store bought card and a ball point pen. Just a quick little note to show a little love and let them know I was thinking about them. Just doing what I can with what I have.

Today's challenge is a gift card for the homeless. Not sure what I am going to do with this. Hmmmm...
McDonalds? Wal-Mart? How much? I do know that Wednesday are super busy and this may have to wait til the weekend. I would like to send you over to Holley Gerth who has a very encouraging post about making a difference in someone's life. Holley always has something encouraging or thought provoking to say so head on over and be blessed :)

Happy Day Project Day 2

2011-11-08T06:03:00.000-08:00

What a great project. God knew just what He was doing when He took me to Joy's Hope. It is a great way for me to jump back into the blog swing of things.

On day one I was surprised by my insecurity. Even as I type this it sounds completely foolish. Insecure to bless someone? If anyone showed up on my doorstep with a casserole and loaf of bread in hand I would probably cry tears of gratitude and joy wondering what I had done to deserve such a blessing.

Yet yesterday I found myself questioning.

Would she think it was strange that I brought her this gift?
Would she like it?
Would she have to tell her children to 'be nice because that woman meant well?'.
Would she tell her friends that I brought the nastiest casserole she ever tasted?
What if she found a dog hair in it?

As I got closer to her house my heart beat faster and I thought about turning around. Especially when I saw she was not at home but her mother-in-law instead.

I have no control over how my gift was received. One or more of those things may or may not occur. What I do have control over is my fear. Fear of rejection. Fear of disapproval. Fear of inadequacy. I will make the choice to do what I can with what I have. I will make the choice to branch out and bless others. I will make the choice to trust that God has all the other stuff covered.

Today's project is a handwritten note. I don't even remember the last time I wrote a sweet note on anything more than a post it. We live in a society full of facebook, twitter, blogger and texting. The art of taking the time to write a complete sentence with nice penmanship is nearly gone. Do you remember writing and re-writing a note to get the penmanship just so? Trying out different types of lettering? Folding origami style? Maybe even spraying it with Love's Baby Soft perfume? Sprinkling in lots of confetti? I don't know about you, but I still enjoy getting a piece of personal mail. A letter or note written and sent the old fashioned way - snail mail style. With penmanship that shows the sender's personality.

Today I will send some happiness!

Happy Day Project

2011-11-07T10:29:00.000-08:00

I am a list lover. I do my meal planning with a calendar, I do my grocery shopping with a list, I read the Bible according to a plan...you get the idea. I also enjoy an opportunity to bless someone with just little preparation and planning on my part. Welcome to the Happy Day Project!

Joy is hosting a fun project over on her blog. Every day this week will be a small challenge to spread some happiness and joy. What a wonderful way to lead up to the holidays!

Today's project is to treat a neighbor. There is a new girl in town. She has 3 small children and just started coming to our church. Even though she has family and friends in town I thought I would bring her a little treat this afternoon. I remember having lots of little ones around and people assuming that since my family was here I never needed any help or encouragement as a mom and wife. Technically she is not my neighbor - she lives several blocks away. But from Sunday School I have taught that really everyone is our neighbor.

Have a great day and spread some happiness!

Let's try this again

2011-11-06T16:50:00.000-08:00

I am hoping that jumping back on the blog wagon is like riding a bicycle. That I can jump back on and take off. I have contemplated starting a new blog with a specific new purpose but decided to just start back up where I am at now.

That is what I have been learning with the Lord. To do what I can with what I have. Enjoy the here and now and not always be looking in the future for an easier or more convienent time. In always looking for something else I am afraid that I have missed a lot of what was intended to bless me. Change me. Mold me. Define me.

So this space will be just that. Simple thoughts from a simple woman trying to live the life that has been given to her.

All things new

2011-01-15T15:20:00.000-08:00

It is time for some updating around here. I am hoping that a new blog design will inspire new blog posts.

I have been lurking about the blog-world meeting new people and learning new things. Lots of fun!

In the process of updating it looks like I have lost my bloglist so I will be recreating a new one :)

Is anyone still out there?

2010-09-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

I wish I could say "The days go slow and the years go fast" but the days and the year are going equally fast. I have stopped by several times with thoughts I would post and yet have not for a multitude of reasons. This has been a difficult year with lots of learning and stretching on my part. With both good and hard things. I miss the blogs that I used to read. It seems most of them have stopped blogging as well.

I thought I would re-visit my "Fab Forty" list. My 40th birthday has come and gone this past month. I dreaded looking at the list because I really have put very little effort into this. But after looking through my items I have accomplished to do some. Check out my updates in red.

1. Take 1 picture everyday for one month – can’t do 365 but 30 seems do-able. Not even one picture
2. Learn how to take a GOOD picture/be in the pictures. I always shy away from the camera, not wanting to be photographed. I want it documented that I was here! I would have to take some pictures for this to be accomplished :)
3. Print and complete photo collage for my living room. Bought the frame, does that count?
4. Go on a Girls' Weekend Get-Away Probably not going to happen
5. Have a new friend over for lunch Nope, not done it
6. Go with friends out for lunch/dinner. I foresee this in the near future…This I am proud of. I have gone to dinner once a month with my 4 closest friends every month. This is something I truly look forward to each month.
7. Make friendships a priority by giving them time to cultivate. See above
8. Read through the New Testament in a new-for-me-version, I am going to use The Message. I have kept up on this and am proud of the fact I did not give up in March.
9. Try a new vegetable in the garden. Kohlrabi? Cabbage? And then keep up on the garden. Nope, didn't try anything new, but my husband did build a trellis for the peas, does that count?
10. Plant an herb garden and actually use the herbs. Planted one planter of basil that didn't do so well. Doesn't really count as an 'herb garden', more like a pot o'basil.
11. Plant a tree (or two) in my front yard. Yes, planted two flowering pear trees!
12. Make raspberry jam from my own raspberries. I am planning for a bounty of raspberries! Only got about a cup of raspberries from my bushes, better luck next year?
13. Can something: maybe tomatoes, spaghetti sauce, applesauce, or peaches. Nope
14. Learn how to make a piece of jewelry I would be proud to wear, I have an idea and it involves resin. Still just in the thinking stage.
15. Take a friend a meal for no reason. Nope
16. Have a family over for dinner. We have done this several times
17. Send a cards when I see someone needs encouragement. Note to self: have cards on hand. Nope, I don't know if I have even sent one.
18. Go on an overnight trip with Ron. Nope, and probably not going to happen this year.
19. Make Ron’s birthday special (40) May, eh...not so special
20. Make Emma’s birthday special (17) December, yep
21. Make Eli’s birthday special (14) September, semi special
22. Make Eden’s birthday special (13) February, yep
23. Make Eva’s birthday special (9) May yep
24. Make Ella’s birthday special (4) February yep
25. Remember my friends birthdays with a little token, already working on this one. Failed.
26. Take a Community Ed. Class. Maybe cooking, self defense, or couponing ? Maybe next month I hope.
27. Exercise for 30 minutes a day/5 days a week for one month. Just got a stationary bike so excuses about the weather are no more. Ha! LOL!
28. Hike Badger Mt. Again, Ha!
29. Take a picture of the same thing in each of the 4 seasons, again with the camera.
30. Laugh out loud with some good friends. I think this one needs to be done more than once. Thanks to our once a month dinner group this happens often :) As well as my sweet friend Coral :)
31. Read a good fiction book (I never read fiction) Ron bought me Scared for Christmas. Read Scared...great book!
32. Throw a themed dinner party. Not too fancy or involved but lots of fun! Still sounds like it would be fun.
33. Treat myself to a pedicure…hopefully with friends. Didn't happen and now it is time for shoes again. :(
34. Paint a piece of furniture with Jamie. Didn't happen :(
35. Paint Eva and Ella’s bedroom. Yes! Turquoise and Yellow!
36. Paint the girls bathroom a fun color. Hasn't happened.
37. Learn to sew something, maybe a pillow or apron. Nope.
38. Make the flower arrangement that I have been thinking about for 3 YEARS...Not yet...
39. Put a little more effort into my appearance…maybe highlights? Definitely work on keeping my nails manicured. Did get the high lights...nails...not so much
40. Only buy flattering clothes I love to wear. For the most part yes, but I have bought a couple things just because I needed them.

So that makes about 16 of 40 things I have accomplished that I set out to do this year. With just three months left I probably will not accomplish all 40. But hopefully I will accomplish a few more. Who I am is constantly evolving. I am not who I was a year ago and hopefully not who I will be next year when I turn 41. There are things I would like to change, things I would like to do over, and things I would rather not have had to experience at all. But I think that is what makes us who we are...who we are becoming. I am trying to give God all the control of writing the pages of my life and not trying to take the pen from His hand. Easier said than done. I hope to blog more. I miss it and the people I once connected with through it.

What is God's best?

2010-04-03T14:15:00.000-07:00

My mind has been swirling with thoughts and questions this past week. I have just finished the book Forgotten God by Francis Chan. It was very thought provoking. As I have been contemplating what is means to live a life that is completely Spirit led; what does this Crazy Love life look like lived out in me?

I have also been following the blog Cale's Recovery. This is a sweet couple, husband about to be discharged from the Army, taking a cross-country trip to see family, end up in a car crash and now the husband is in a coma. They had their whole lives before them, still do. They were talking about starting their family. Now everything has changed.

I was thinking about how long until she has to go back to life? Before she starts working again? How long does she wait for him to wake up? But I think I am asking the wrong questions. What if is this IS what God has for her life? What if God wants her to take care of this man forever? Always taking care of him? Even if he never wakes up. Is that too much? Would God ask that of her? I think it just might be in God's character to do so. The Word is full of examples of the Lord asking humans to sacrifice and do what is not in our human plan. Moses, Abraham, Esther, Jonah, Mary, Paul, and of course Jesus (although sacrifice was always Jesus' plan). My point being am I willing to sacrifice? To what extent? Do I have a limit? When do I draw the line and say "not any farther"? Maybe God wants more than I am willing to give? If so, it is my heart that needs to move, not His. I want to be willing to give. To say graciously to God "whatever You desire, I am willing". It is a scary thought, isn't it?

As I think of recent conversations I have had with fellow believers I wonder do I give the best counsel? Often I think of what will cause the least amount of pain or sacrifice, when the reality is what costs us the most usually grows us the most to be like Him. I usually look to the quickest solution, when time really means nothing to God; He is not limited with the clock.

Maybe God wants you to stay in that marriage. Even though you have every right to leave, because you give more glory to God if you stay.

Maybe God wants you to keep that friendship. Even though you have the right to end it, because God wants to share His love through you.

Maybe God wants you to give up that job. Even though you will loose monetarily, He has other plans for you and your family.

Maybe God wants you to stay single. Because you are an amazing example of letting the Lord be your husband and your childrens' Father.

Maybe God wants you to send your kids to public school. Even though you want to keep them sheltered and safe. He wants you or them to shine in that area.

Maybe God wants you to home school your kids. To sacrifice the time and energy now to prepare them for later.

Maybe God wants you to never be financially secure. Because if you didn't need Him to provide, you wouldn't rely on Him at all.

Maybe God wants you to not take that vacation. Because the time and money you spend could go to a different cause.

Maybe God wants you to take in a foster child. Because they need to see the love of a family and ultimately know the love of the Lord.

Maybe God wants you to stay right where you are. Even though the easier thing would be to go. It would cause less pain if you just left your situation and moved on. But the greater glory comes from staying, learning, growing, and relying on God.

I am praying that Cale will come out of his coma and soon. But more so I am praying for Kathleen. That she will continue to be a shining example of sacrifice no matter the cost. That she would be willing to do whatever it is that God wants her to do, sacrifice and all. I look at her example and am amazed.

I am more so praying for myself. That the Lord would put a desire in my heart that I would want His will over mine. What living a Spirit-led life looks like is different for each of us. It is not a one answer fits all deal. But am I willing to seek, find and then follow. That is the real question.

Happy Easter.

What to wear...or not

2010-03-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

The sun has been shining and the weather has been warmer. In this house that means it is time to go through spring/summer clothes and put away winter. I did this last weekend for my two younger daughters. This is a chore that I despise with a passion. I am very thankful for the tubs of clothing that I do not have to buy this season but I really don't like the process. The girls however LOVE it. They loved trying on "new to them" items and showing them off, looking in the mirror and admiring themselves and their new finds.

I also did this for myself. Did I enjoy the process? Not so much.

Where are Clinton and Stacy when I need them?

My friend Beth once told me that she equates name with certain styles. For example, Beth and Jill remind her of khakis and denim. I equate that with sensible and boring. After a look in my closet though I think she may be right. Not much excitement there. No little black dresses, no shimmering or embellished tops, No glitzy jackets. But I do have 5 pairs of khakis, 5 pairs of jeans, one denim shirt, two denim jackets, and 3 denim skirts. Not to mention the several pairs of khaki or denim cropped pants. Or how about 24 t-shirts, all solids, no stripes or patterns. 7 of them are white. I also have about the same number of long sleeved t-shirts. Can you say dull?

This weekend I purchased 2 button down shirts. Exactly the same. Different color. Both solid. They came in gingham prints and floral prints but I chose solid. Predictable? I think so. I tried the print and it just didn't feel right. I was uncomfortable. Weird, I know. My closet kind of looks like a big girl version of granimals. Remember where you just match the animal and the outfit matched? Blue shirt & khaki pants. Pink shirt & jeans. Sometimes I get a little wild and add...who am I kidding? I never veer off the equation.

My sister-in-law always knew just what to wear. She always looked amazing and well put together. Accessories, shoes, purse, the whole thing. I would take my cues from her on what was "fashionable". Not that I followed her lead, I was just a little bit knowledgeable then.

I want to be that woman who wears hip clothing and always looks in style. I would love to be like Beth Moore in the fashion area (as well as others) but that takes time, effort, knowledge and money. I don't have much of any of that. Is it OK to settle for clean and sensible?

What are your thoughts on keeping fashionably current? Do you put effort into it? Or do you hold to the clean and sensible opinion too?

Lack of inspiration

2010-03-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

Wow, mid March! As you can see from the lack of posting I have had a lack of inspiration. Life has been super busy which seems to spiral into lack of time, lack of energy, lack of inspiration. Whenever I have thought of something to post about it was not really positive...so I decided I best not. If you can't say anything nice...

I am still reading through Crazy Love and I find myself asking the question "What does this look like lived out in MY life?" I know God is up to something. Trying to teach me, talk to me, direct me. I know that we have had "Crazy Love periods" in our family from time to time but I don't want to live my testimony in the past. I want it to always be present. So I keep asking myself and the Lord what does it look like in the midst of making dinner, grocery shopping, doing laundry, going to church, homeschooling and working part-time? Or is that it? Is this what it looks like? I am not sure. I will keep praying and seeking.

Fabulous Forty update

2010-03-01T06:32:00.000-08:00

Like Jamie I can hardly believe that February is over. I heard a quote this weekend that said 'the days go slow and the years go fast' but I think the days are going fast too. I spent much of February just trying to keep up with all that needed to be done. For a girl that likes to be one step ahead it was not fun. March looks to be another very busy month. The calendar is already filling up with dates to remember, meetings to attend, retreats to plan, and deadlines to meet. There is one weekend in the middle of the month the we have a little get-away planned and I am hoping to do a little reflecting on the busyness of life and see if there are some things that should be eliminated for the sake of sanity. When it is all 'good' things that need to be done it is difficult to chose the least of the good.

Here are the things I did manage to get checked off my list in February.
*Make Eden's birthday special. Eden turned 12 and had a friend sleepover. Decorations, invitations, pizza, games, movies. Whew...

*Make Ella's birthday special. Thank goodness Ella turned 4 and a simple little morning tea party with one little friend was enough to make the day special.

*Dinner with girlfriends. We even tried a new restaurant!

*I am continuing to read through the New Testament, but I did fall a few days behind this month. Thank goodness I only have to read a chapter a day so catching up is much more attainable than when I fall behind on reading through the entire Bible.

Here in the Northwest the weather has been wonderful! Sunshine and warmer temperatures make me excited about Spring! I am looking forward to planning my garden this month and starting some yard work.

Facebook

2010-02-20T08:21:00.000-08:00

Facebook just baffles me. I am sure that Sociologist have lots to say about the whole social networking thing. I have a love-hate relationship with the site. Truth be told I have become a sot of lurker on the site. I kinda like that.

Things I love:
I love seeing pictures of people
Especially people from my past. Some who haven't changed at all, some who have changed much. I like that I can check them out without being their friend.
I also love seeing pictures of my kids friends; goofy, silly and what they are up to.
I love seeing nearly daily photos of my new great-nephew.
I love knowing what people are up to. Example: "Going to Hawaii tomorrow", "Starting a new job", "Reading a great book"
I like that I can get a sort of insight into my kids world view, see some of their conversations, and use it to spark conversations at home.

Things I don't like:
I hate too much information. I really don't need to know EVERYTHING. Example: "I am having trouble relieving myself" (yes, I really saw this one)
This also goes for pictures that show things or situations I don't want to see. I have been surprised several times by people I know in situations captured for the world to see on FB.
Saying 'ignore' to anyone who tries to friend me
It makes me feel bad. Even if I have not seen that person in 25 years.
Bad spelling or short text form spelling.

Things I just don't get:
Farms, Fishtanks, and Mafia Wars? Never tried 'em.
Sweetshop? How does me accepting a chocolate cherry give money to St. Judes Hospital?
Becoming a fan of things like 'I stubbed my toe and then said Ouch' ???
Telling the world so much information.

I have noticed that FB makes me more judgmental or critical of people too (which comes so easy to me anyway). When I see what they are a 'fan' of and I don't agree with it, when they post a bible verse that is not backed up with their actions, or even a sappy comment to someone's struggle when wouldn't it be better to give that person a call? Maybe this is the new way. But I would rather get a phone call or a card than have someone write on my wall. Of course not for all situations. Little struggles like a cold, that would merit of FB message. But the big things need real contact.

FB is so strange in the fact that it connects people from all areas in my life and all ages into one neat little package. But all those people can see me and hear my same thoughts. Although I don't believe this to be an issue for me myself I can see huge implications when a friend and a colleague see the same information. When the professional and the recreational meet. When the secular and religious connect. Oh wait - there shouldn't be anything different for that last one. My bad.

So, what are your thoughts on FB? Love it? Hate it? Or are you like me and feel both?

Oh yes, I do have an opinion

2010-02-15T08:24:00.000-08:00

Jamie asked us to read this article over at 5 Conversations That You Must Have With Your Daughter Blog and then asked us what our thoughts were. Oh yes, I do have some thoughts.

My husband has been a Youth Pastor for 10 years and we have seen a lot of kids come through our church. These kids consist of traditional family homes, divorced, single-parent, grandparent, aunts/uncles, group homes, etc. We have come to the conclusion that if mom and dad profess to be Christians yet do not live it out in their lives the kids have a very slim chance of living it out themselves. They have been taught it really doesn't matter so it really doesn't matter to the kids. The exception has been when a kid from a non-believing home chooses to follow Christ. That situation is difficult for that child, but they are not getting conflicting messages at home - "do what I say, not what I do". I thought I give you some of the thoughts that parents have shared with us through the years.

"Make church fun so my kid wants to be here"
"Can you make church not so 'church-y'"
"Kids can't absorb Bible study after being in school all day, so just have fun"
"My kids need something 'deeper' than what you offer"

I love the "deeper" comment. More often than not that kid is on his way out the door and usually not to another church. The pattern usually goes like this: Discontent with our youth group, shops around for another for awhile, quits going to church all together.

Question: If your kid didn't like school would you give them the option of not going? If they wanted to join the basketball team but didn't want to run at practice would that be OK? If your kid wanted to drive but didn't want to follow traffic rules would the police let that go? There are some things in our culture that are non-negotiable like school and following the laws yet when it comes to Christianity we don't want to take the whole truth. I am not talking about church attendance, I am talking about living out our commitment to Christ. We as parents set the standard. I am reading Crazy Love by Francis Chan along side of The Pursuit of God by AW Tozer. This is not a new problem - Tozer's book was written in 1948. Both books state the same issue of not really being a committed follower of Christ.

It starts with us.

Hurry!

2010-02-06T07:27:00.001-08:00

Head on over for a chance to will 100 bucks. Yep...A HUNDRED BUCKS. Check it out!!

a little pass along

2010-02-03T01:15:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to pass along a new to me online magazine. It is called Exemplify:Women living lives that glorify. There is a little feature I am going to try: You can print out a copy of the magazine which is good because looking at it online doesn't do the same thing for me as thumbing through a magazine on the couch with a cup of coffee. I hope you enjoy!

Fabulous Forty

2010-02-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

Month One of Fabulous Forty has been so much fun! I love working off a list, it makes me happy!

Here is what I have been up to

6. Go with friends out to dinner - Had a great time at our favorite place! Lots of great conversations and laughs

8. Read through the New Testament in a new-to-me version - Started reading the Message on Jan 20

30. Laugh out loud with some good friends - This goes with #6

31. Read a good fiction book - Read Scared. It was SO good. I totally recommend it.

39. Put a little more effort into my appearance - Kept my nails files and clear polish on all month Woo Hoo! It is the little things ladies.

I am looking forward to see what I can cross off the list or at least work on this next month.

Burnt Buscuits

2010-01-21T13:38:00.000-08:00

Someone sent me this in an email the other day and I thought it was sweet. Just passing it along...

When I was a kid, my mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast after a long, hard day at work. On that evening so long ago, my mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage and extremely burned biscuits in front of my dad. I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed! Yet all my dad did was reach for his biscuit, smile at my mom and ask me how my day was at school. I don't remember what I told him that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jelly on that biscuit and eat every bite!

When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my mom apologize to my dad for burning the biscuits. And I'll never forget what he said: "Honey, I love burned biscuits."

Later that night, I went to kiss Daddy good night and I asked him if he really liked his biscuits burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, "Your Momma put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides - a little burnt biscuit never hurt anyone!"

You know, life is full of imperfect things.....and imperfect people. I'm not the best at hardly anything, and I forget birthdays and anniversaries just like everyone else.

What I've learned over the years is that learning to accept each others faults - and choosing to celebrate each others differences - is one of the most important keys to creating a healthy, growing, and lasting relationship.

Skinny Jeans

2010-01-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

I went shopping for skinny jeans yesterday. Mission aborted.

In the "Women Over A Certain Age"(like 16) department I found very few pairs of skinny jeans. In the Junior Department however skinny jeans were everywhere. With coaxing from my daughter I tried a pair on from the junior department. Humiliating. All the bad adjectives could be inserted here. Not a good look. I tried the skinny jeans from the "older" department. Still not a good look. My conclusion: Not everyone should wear skinny jeans. I will need to find another way to wear the fabulous boots.

I also tried a pair of Not Your Daughter's Jean that I had heard great things about. Didn't like those either. For one they ran about 2 sizes too small. If I am going to pay $100+ a pair (not that I ever would) I want them to lie to me and tell me I am 2 sizes smaller than I really am, not 2 sizes larger. Why would I pay that much to feel worse about myself? I can do that by standing at the right angle in the privacy of my own room, for free. I really thought I would LOVE these jeans and be willing to put them on my charge account. Didn't happen. They say they "lift and tuck", but let me tell you all they lift and tuck has to go somewhere...spilling out other places...not pretty.

I am praying that bootcut and straight leg never go out of fashion or I will be in trouble. I think I am going back to my Levi's, or maybe a good ol' pair of sweats. Did I tell you that not everyone should wear skinny jeans?

Random points

2010-01-18T08:38:00.000-08:00

*Happy today is a day off
*Happy the sun is shining instead of rain
*Love the Fab 40 list - I may need to expand this thing because of its effect on keeping me focused!
*Thinking about purchasing a pair of skinny jeans...but not teenager skinny...39 year old skinny. I recieved some great boots for Christmas and they really need to be worn with pants inside.

I need some help. I want to buy some giftcards or small gifts ($10) for the teachers I work with to show appreciation and as unimaginable as it is not everyone likes coffee (shock). Do you have any great ideas?

Fabulous Forty

2010-01-11T03:00:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to be posting my fabulous forty list. It is twice as much fun since it isn’t just me trying to tackle 40 things but doing it with friends. Some of the things I will be doing more than once. As I look over the list I see that I need to prepare and plan ahead. Having the supplies on hand will help. Maybe there is something to that old saying about how you are more likely to meet a goal if you write it down. Who knew? I also want to try to take pictures to document the fabulous forty

1. Take 1 picture everyday for one month – can’t do 365 but 30 seems do-able.
2. Learn how to take a GOOD picture/be in the pictures. I always shy away from the camera, not wanting to be photographed. I want it documented that I was here!
3. Print and complete photo collage for my living room.
4. Go on a Girls' Weekend Get-Away
5. Have a new friend over for lunch
6. Go with friends out for lunch/dinner. I foresee this in the near future…
7. Make friendships a priority by giving them time to cultivate.
8. Read through the New Testament in a new-for-me-version, I am going to use The Message.
9. Try a new vegetable in the garden. Kohlrabi? Cabbage? And then keep up on the garden
10. Plant an herb garden and actually use the herbs.
11. Plant a tree (or two) in my front yard
12. Make raspberry jam from my own raspberries. I am planning for a bounty of raspberries!
13. Can something: maybe tomatoes, spaghetti sauce, applesauce, or peaches.
14. Learn how to make a piece of jewelry I would be proud to wear, I have an idea and it involves resin.
15. Take a friend a meal for no reason.
16. Have a family over for dinner
17. Send a cards when I see someone needs encouragement. Note to self: have cards on hand.
18. Go on an overnight trip with Ron
19. Make Ron’s birthday special (40) May
20. Make Emma’s birthday special (17) December
21. Make Eli’s birthday special (14) September
22. Make Eden’s birthday special (13) February
23. Make Eva’s birthday special (9) May
24. Make Ella’s birthday special (4) February
25. Remember my friends birthdays with a little token, already working on this one.
26. Take a Community Ed. Class. Maybe cooking, self defense, or couponing ?
27. Exercise for 30 minutes a day/5 days a week for one month. Just got a stationary bike so excuses about the weather are no more.
28. Hike Badger Mt.
29. Take a picture of the same thing in each of the 4 seasons
30. Laugh out loud with some good friends. I think this one needs to be done more than once.
31. Read a good fiction book (I never read fiction) Ron bought me Scared for Christmas.
32. Throw a themed dinner party. Not too fancy or involved but lots of fun!
33. Treat myself to a pedicure…hopefully with friends.
34. Paint a piece of furniture with Jamie.
35. Paint Eva and Ella’s bedroom.
36. Paint the girls bathroom a fun color.
37. Learn to sew something, maybe a pillow or apron
38. Make the flower arrangement that I have been thinking about for 3 YEARS
39. Put a little more effort into my appearance…maybe highlights? Definitely work on keeping my nails manicured.
40. Only buy flattering clothes I love to wear.

So there you go. Thank you Jamie for being fabulous with me!

Fabulous Forty

2010-01-08T08:10:00.001-08:00

Twenty Ten is here! Wow!

A dear friend told me recently that she thought that 2009 was the year of "struggle and strife" and after I thought about it I think she was right. There were lots of difficult things that happened and that we experienced. So much of this life is not necessarily the choices that we make but how we respond to the situations in our life that we have no choice in. It is just a path of our journey. 2010 has started bittersweet for our family. My sister in law lost her battle with cancer on New Year's Day and her first grandbaby was born on New Year's Eve. It was a long hard battle but thank God for her salvation and the promise of heaven. We know that it was not the end for her...just another beginning. She was 40 years old.

I want to respond well this year. I want to live with purpose and direction. So thanks to Jamie and with her encouragement I am committing to do 40 things this year that I turn 40. We will update once a month and let you know what we are working on and have accomplished towards our goals. The items on my list may not seem like much to you, but it will help me live life this year on purpose. Come back Monday and see our full lists!

I dedicate this Fabulous Forty to Liz Meyer Shelby
October 2, 1969-January 1, 2010

The Love Theme Recap

2009-12-30T08:52:00.001-08:00

Last year I chose a “THEME” for the year. I saw it somewhere around the blogosphere and thought it was a great idea. I felt the Lord leading me to choose the theme of love. And with all things that the Lord guides me in, it turned out nothing like what I thought it would.

I imagined a year filled with warmth, kindness, time spent with friends and family. Imagine warm chocolate chip cookies and a glass of milk, Ah, heavenly. My goal was to really invest in people, not just on a surface “How ya doin’” but really investing. So now I ask myself; “How did that work out for you?”

I have learned some hard lessons this year.

Sometimes people don’t want your investment if it means you know their business. As long as all is going well it is OK, but let’s say things are not going well. This lesson has taught me that now more than ever that I want accountability. If a friend sees something in my life that is not right I hope they would love me enough to point it out, not just pat me on the shoulder. I want to have a soft enough spirit to receive their words.

I have learned that forgiveness and trust are two very different things. You can forgive someone but that doesn’t mean you have to trust them. God has asked me to forgive and that means leaving the past where it is and moving on, but it doesn’t mean that I put myself in the same situation again.

Seasons change and people move in and out of your life. Sometimes by physically moving and other times it is because God needs to remove some branches to make way for new growth. Both ways are painful. I am thankful that God has placed a few key people in my life that are my anchors. I know I can count on them at anytime to be there for me. Some of these people I talk to on a very regular basis and others are more hit and miss but I know without a doubt that they are for me and not against me. They have my best in mind.

It is more difficult to see your child struggle with friendships than it is to go through them yourself.

Just because an investment in people didn’t turn out the way I wanted does not mean I should stop investing and loving. Although some of these lessons shook me, beat me, and really made me ask some difficult questions, they ultimately made my walk stronger. God has called us to love people and that doesn’t always look like a Hallmark movie. Sometimes there is not a neat happy ending and a solution wrapped in a 60 minute timeslot. Sometimes there are consequences that linger for a long time and during that time you start digging through the rubble, hauling out the garbage, repairing what you can, and building from scratch what you cannot.

Goodbye...Hello

2009-12-28T17:10:00.000-08:00

It is the end of the year. The end of a decade. In a few days we will be celebrating all the hope of what is to come. My usual routine for the week between Christmas and New Year's is to number 1, put away everything Christmas and then spend the rest of the time pondering and reflecting. It all sounds very spiritual doesn't it. It's not.

The pondering comes in brief moments of time. Between sleepovers, birthdays, grocery shopping and laundry. Sometimes while grocery shopping and doing the laundry. Time to plan first with next months happenings and then to the bigger picture of the next year. I have been thinking about the end of a decade and what I want to see for myself and my family in the next 10 years. Ten years from now Emma will be turning 26. I could very well be a grandma. 10 years ago she was just turning 6 and had just started Kindergarten, wow. Life happens fast doesn't it.

This next year I will be turning 40. "They" say this is the decade that you don't care anymore about what people think of you. I know that I care a whole lot less now than I did 10 years ago, and I think that is a good thing. I am not so sure it is a good thing to completely not care about what others think.

Here is my status report for the end of December 2009...

Sitting...in front of the computer

Drinking...Pepsi

Enjoying...listening to 3 little girls play downstairs and watching the neighbor boys throw snowballs at each other.

Reading...I received 3 new books for Christmas (Crazy Love, The Forgotten Holy Spirit, and Scared) I can't wait to start...maybe tonight. As of late I have only been reading magazines.

Looking forward to...all that 2010 has.

Obsessed...not so much

Thinking...about my sis-in-law's fight with cancer and what 2010 will hold for her family.

Happy...that I am content with where I am in life right now.

I am thankful that God made our lives with seasons. Both in nature and in life. It gives us opportunity to change and reinvent. How about you? What are you reflecting on?

2009-12-23T08:36:00.000-08:00

To you and your family! May this New Year bring lots of blessings! I dare you to show your loved ones an extra portion of love this holiday. Make 'em a cup of coffee, have lunch with your friends (hint, hint), make a phone call, allow yourself to be in the Christmas pictures, read that extra book, do a little sewing, make pancakes for breakfast and add some chocolate chips, show some extra patience and give a little hug.

Savor the next days because before we know it, it will be January 4th and time to get back to it. Ugh, the thought is daunting. So enjoy! I know I am going to. I am having lunch today with a far away friend who is visiting family along with a close by friend that always brings me a smile. I can't wait!

We have been unpacking our stockings for the 10 days prior to Christmas to make it last a bit longer. Today I unpacked a griddle. Not really a stocking gift...more like a hint to make pancakes...so off I go! Showin' love to my family one pancake at a time.

The Invisible Woman

2009-12-14T13:13:00.000-08:00

Is the appeal of giving to our families sacrificially wearing thin? Are you tired of giving and giving? Are you looking forward to the holidays being over? I hope not. I hope you are still looking forward to the next couple weeks. Spending time with your family. Giving of your time to them to show them how much you love them. Just in case you need a little encouragement like me to keep on going...here you go!

Love intercedes

2009-12-10T13:49:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder why God gives us women overwhelming insight into others faults? Do you think it is so we can complain and nag? Probably not. Instead of trying to change anyone today let's take it to the One that can actually do the changing.

Today's dare: Pray for those you love. Pray for exactly what they need. Pray for their heart. Pray for their attitude. Pray for truth to replace lies. Pray for forgiveness to replace bitterness. Pray for love and honor to become the norm.

Beloved

2009-12-09T13:47:00.000-08:00

I love that word. Beloved. It is so old-fashioned. People really don't talk like that anymore. Maybe we should. The word is defined as "greatly loved or dear to the heart". Maybe we should start a trend and start using words like beloved, cherished, adored, felicity, mischance. I digress...

Today's Dare: Show someone in your home that they are your beloved. That you cherish them. Do something out of the ordinary. Hold open a door, give them a sticker, brush their hair, cuddle with them at bedtime, write a note, or look them in the eyes when they speak.

Let them win at something

2009-12-07T07:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but sometimes I just want to win. Even in the little stuff. I want my own way. I want my flavor of coffee in the morning. I want my kind of soap in the shower. I want my towels folded a certain way. I want my soda in the fridge. Oh, the list could go on and on and on.

Today's Dare: Let someone else win. Give in to their preferences. Pick up THEIR thing at the store just to be nice. Let them make the decision on what to watch on TV. Let them choose what is for dinner. Let them stay up a few minutes longer. Just for today...then tomorrow we can go back to being selfish ;o)

What did you say?

2009-12-03T15:25:00.000-08:00

I am new to the whole texting thing. I sent one out today and somehow through my inexperience I sent it to the first 10 people in my contacts list. Thankfully it was not personal or private. But 9 people received a text that made them wonder 'What are you talking about?'

Today's Dare:
Let those you love know you cherish them by acknowledging and giving them attention when they enter a room or come home for the day. Give them your undivided attention for just a few minutes and see what it does to their spirits.

Show the love!

2009-12-02T10:38:00.001-08:00

I have been meeting with a couple of young women for the past few months. They both have only been married for a few years. The honeymoon is over and the reality of life as wives and mothers has set in. The reality of balancing work, marriage, kids, laundry, school, groceries, etc. seems daunting. And let's face it, sometimes it is.

We are going through the book "The Love Dare". I went through this book last year when our church encouraged it and thought it had some really great reminders about showing love to those we hold dearest.

Christmas is right around the corner and what better way to celebrate the season by showing those we love a little something extra. It is so easy to get in the routine of life and forget that each member of our family is a special gift given to us by God. I know I certainly don't always treat then that way.

So for the rest of the month I am going to be highlighting some of the 'dares' that we are doing. I hope this will encourage you to show those that live in your home, not just your spouse, that you do love and cherish them.

Today's dare:
Doing something out of the ordinary to show you love them.
Wash the car, make a meal, go get them a coffee, play a game, read a book. Say 'I love you' in a special way today.

2009-11-30T13:22:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a fabulous thanksgiving weekend. Ours was very quiet and relaxing. We ate, made puzzles and played way too much Monopoly. So much in fact my husband asked if we could burn the game. Ahh...good times. We put the Christmas tree and all the lights on the house up. Did a little shopping...overall very productive and restful weekend.

Our Thanksgiving was also covered in a gray cloud. My sister in law spent most of the holiday weekend in the hospital fighting off pneumonia that is accompanying her cancer. She is not doing well and the outlook is grim. If you think of us, please say a prayer for her and her family. Especially the assurance of her salvation.

We have a winner!!

2009-11-24T13:41:00.000-08:00

Yea! Congratulations Jamie!! No, I did not rig the random selection. Thank you Random.org for selecting #4. Woo Hoo! I suggest you take your sister out to coffee ;o)

300!!!!

2009-11-23T07:22:00.001-08:00

WOW! 300 posts! About what? I have no idea. I think I am a Seinfeld type of blogger. A lot of blogging about nothing. A ruffled pirate shirt, soup, whatever. Just a place for me to get out an occasional complete thought. So in honor of this momentous occasion as promised a give-away!

A $15 gift card to Starbucks! Yea Hoo! I will use random.com tomorrow to pick a winner.

So leave a comment and good luck!

I am thankful for YOU!!

Post 299

2009-11-22T15:31:00.001-08:00

One more to 300! Come back tomorrow!

Post 298

2009-11-19T21:24:00.001-08:00

Had a great time with Jamie and Kelly tonight!! Trying to get to post 300...

Woo Hoo! Look at me!

2009-11-18T06:19:00.000-08:00

A while ago I won a Blog Makeover from Jamie. Jackie at Memories by Design did the makeover. I am very happy with how it came out!

Thank you Jamie!! Thank you Jackie!! I feel like a new blogger!! Maybe this will give me the inspiration of more simple thoughts.

This is my 297th post. 297 posts about...I don't know what. But in honor of my new look AND 300 posts AND Thanksgiving I will be having a little giveaway next week...

Tune in Monday for details!

Vacation

2009-11-12T13:34:00.000-08:00

Ginny at My Cup to Yours is hosting Talkin' About Thursdays. This week the topic is vacations.

My vacations have been rather limited I must say. No yearly vacations to Maratha's Vineyard, Hawaii, Jamaica, The Bahamas, Switzerland, Austrailia, or Disneyland. Our yearly vacations have been mostly to either the mountains or to the beach. That is what happens when vacation funds are limited ;o) I have been to Hawaii, so don't feel too sorry for me. And it was great!

Our vacations are family time away to reconnect and build memories. And really the place just doesn't matter all that much. It would be great to take the kids to some fabulous exotic place, but connecting with the kids and my husband can be done anywhere. I think my favorite family vacation has been Klammath Falls, Oregon. It is a beautiful place in the mountains. We had a great time! We also enjoy going to the beach on the Oregon Coast.

Not quite sure what happened there...

2009-11-10T14:55:00.000-08:00

The morning started out as usual. Alarm went off at the right time, showered, started to get ready. But then something went wrong. Or maybe unexpected is a better word. I was thrown off my game. The universe out of alignment. Nothing disastrous, just unscheduled. And I spent the next several hours recuperating. Add that to 'picture day' at school (I hate picture day) where the photographer was just a little unprepared. I needed to get a sub for a teacher for Thursday. Parents asking for just a little of this or a little of that. Little annoyances that threw me off. I wish I could say I handled it all with grace...not so much. Never an ill word but I am sure my feelings were written all over my face. "You annoy me". Ah...way to let my light shine. Good times! ;o)

Holiday Celebrations

2009-11-03T14:28:00.000-08:00

We are coming on that time of year. The HOLIDAYS. Time that is SUPPOSED to be all about thankfulness, family, celebrating God's Gift to us and reflecting on the joy of the season. The reality in the past for me has not exactly been that. Reality has been that I start off with those thoughts and ideas yet somewhere between preparing for the Thanksgiving meal and cleaning up the Christmas decorations all of that has been lost. OK, maybe not all lost but my focus, the main purpose of this time is somehow blurred. The message is minimalized and I am consumed with thought of what needs to be done. Shopping, baking, buying, sending, partying, and doing. I don't think that how we as a family have spent the holidays is really glorifying or pleasing to the Lord. Yes, there have been good moments, good deeds, good ideas followed through. But overall I get consumed and the message is minimalized.

I want this year to be different. Jamie's post got me thinking the other day. I want to be generous with what I have. I want to be thankful for what I have.I want my children to be grateful too. We may not have unlimited resources, but we do have something. So this year we are changing things up. I am not sure exactly what that will mean yet. Yesterday we talked about limiting our gift giving to each other to give to others more. I thought this would be met with cries and boo-hoos but each of the kids said 'you know, I really don't need anything, and there is nothing I have really been wanting'. BINGO! Why buy gifts just for gifts-sake? Just because it is what we are supposed to do? Yes, there will still be some sort of gift giving at our house Christmas morning but it will look different this year. I am thinking maybe we just do the stockings? I am not sure.

I would like my kids to think of ways to bless others this season. Things that they can think up and do. Maybe they will choose to make a Christmas Child box, maybe pick a child off the Angel Tree, maybe make scarfs for the mission, maybe give to the needy, maybe serve at the soup kitchen or deliver a meal for the sick or elderly? I would like Christmas morning to be spent talking about how we were able to be used by God and be a blessing to others instead of "What did you get?" Maybe I will buy coffee for the car behind me in the drive through. Maybe I will buy groceries for that family who is struggling. Maybe I will sit with a sick friend and pray with and for her. Maybe I will go visit my husband's grandma. Maybe I will make that phone call I have been putting off because I haven't had time. Or maybe I will make time to visit with some old friends.

I am not sure what the next couple months will look like exactly. But I am looking for different.

Once upon a time....

2009-11-02T14:53:00.000-08:00

In a land far, far away lived a beautiful woman. She had five children and a husband who adored her and hung on her every word. Her children obeyed without question. They were all perfectly dressed and coiffed.

Her home was magnificent, clean, and welcoming. She spent her days reading to her children, teaching them lessons they were eager to learn, and baking cookies. Dinner was always delicious and nutritious. Wonderful aromas always filled the air. The laundry was always done, dishes always cleaned and toilets were always scrubbed.

The evenings were quiet and relaxing. A fire flickering in the living room. Children reading books and playing board games. And she had deep meaningful conversations with her husband. Every evening ended with family devotions that the children actively participated in and enthusiastically learned and applied to their lives. When the children went to bed they all said 'Mom, your the best!'

She ended her day with an encouraging word from the Lord and a kiss from her husband. All is well in the land far, far away.

That is not my life here. Life has been far too busy with little to show for it. I am hoping to get back to blogging on a regular basis. I am looking forward to the holidays. We are looking at how we can make this holiday season different and meaningful. I would love to share them with you.

Happy November!!

Laundry Shelby Style

2009-10-15T01:06:00.000-07:00

I do not love laundry. Not my favorite chore at all. Especially matching socks. Yuck. I am baffled by how we can have so many 'onesies' without the twosie.

We have a large family so if I do not do at least one, preferably two, loads a day it becomes a huge task. I do not make/let my kids do their own laundry but they do have to help with it. The oldest help in keeping the loads moving and everyone is responsible to get the dirties into the laundry room. The older kids are great about moving the laundry along when they have something they want to wear that needs cleaning.

We have a large laundry room which is great for hiding/handling all the loads. A year or so ago we added some cabinets and a long counter to pile the clean laundry when it comes out so no more piling it on the couch for me. I also bought a rolling rack to hang things on right away out of the dryer to save on ironing. Love both those items! It also is a good thing when I do the ironing in front of the TV with a movie going. It is an instant place to hang up the clothes. I usually watch 'You've got mail' because I have seen it so many times I just listen to it while I iron and I don't miss anything.

I have tried all kinds of laundry detergent from homemade to store brand to name brand. I don't care for the homemade long term because I don't think it gets my clothes bright enough. But on those tight budget months it works great. My preference is Tide soap, Clorox 2 and Downy. But with our tighter budget it is Costco brand soap, Clorox 2 in the white load only, and Costco brand dryer sheets.

That's how we do it here at the Shelby House. Join Genny at My Cup 2 Yours for Talk'n About Thursdays with a new topic to Talk About every week!

Works for me Wednesday

2009-10-06T17:47:00.001-07:00

Monthly Meal Planning works for me. Not to say that I stick by this completely and never veer off the course but his has saved me lots of time and stress with meal planning. At the beginning of the month I sit and plan out the next month's dinner plan. Then I go to the grocery store for all the things that I know I will need for the dinners. Obviously not the fresh items; just the frozen or canned goods. I go the store once a week for things like milk, fruit and veggies and anything that I may have forgotten but I try to keep it to a minimum. My family (the boys especially) like knowing what is for dinner early on in the day. Planning meals has taken the stress out of making dinner. Although sometimes we veer off course and choose something from somewhere else in the monthly plan, go out, or change all together. This basic plan has also helped our family (me) stay on budget too.

I use THIS monthly calendar to plan out the meals. I wish I could show you this months plan, but I have no idea how to do than. I tried. I failed. Sorry. Hopefully you can imagine.

Head over to We are THAT family for more WFMW

Soup Swap

2009-10-04T13:48:00.000-07:00

We love soup! So I am so excited to participate in this fun swap hosted by Turkeycookies!

This is one of our family's favorite soups for the colder months. I found it in a Taste of Home magazine several years ago.
Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder. I am giving you the link so you can print off the recipe in a nice format. I make this chowder after I have been to Costco and bought one of their rotisserie chickens. I make fajitas one night and then the next night I make this chowder with whatever is leftover. Sometimes it may have a lot of chicken, sometimes not so much. Yummy creamy goodness!

Mexican Corn Chowder
1 1/2lbs boneless chicken, shredded
1/2 c onion - chopped
1-2 garlic cloves
3T butter
2 chicken bullion cubes
1c water
1/2t cumin
2c Half & Half
2c Monterrey Jack Cheese - Shredded
1 can cream corn
1 can green chilies
1 med tomatoes - chopped
parsley
Makes 6-8 servings

This recipe is very forgiving. Last night I used frozen corn instead of cream corn and added a can of cream of chicken. Still awesome.

And just because I am feeling generous I will also give y'all a favorite corn muffin recipe too. This corn bread uses a yellow cake mix in it so the corn bread is sweet. YUM!

Green Chili Corn Muffins

1 (8 1/2oz) pkg of corn bread/muffin mix (Jiffy)
1 (9oz) pkg of yellow cake mix (Jiffy)
2 eggs
1/2c milk
1/3c water
2T Vegetable Oil
1 can chopped green chili (4oz)
1c shredded cheddar cheese
Combine mixes. In a separate bowl mix eggs, milk, water and oil. Stir in dry ingredients just until moistened. Add the chilies and 3/4c of cheese. Fill greased muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350 for 20-22 minutes or until done. Immediately sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans. Serve warm. Makes 16.

Pumpkin Bars

2009-10-03T12:53:00.000-07:00

I am making these today beacuse it feels like October outside and I need a dessert to take to a high school fellowship this afternoon. I hope they are as yummy as they smell.

Soups on!

2009-09-30T14:22:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that I am LOVING this cooler weather. Not cold enough to wear a coat. Just a little jacket or sweater, some long sleeves, long pants. Heaven. I hope the weather stays like this for a long time.

I wanted to give you all (all two of you) at heads up about something I am excited about in bloggyville. Turkeycookies is hosting a Soup Swap on Monday. We love soup! It is easy, cheap, add a little bread and ta-dah! Dinner! I am will surly participate in this fun little swap and I am hoping to get some great recipes for fall and winter. Won't you join me?

Rollin', rollin', rollin'

2009-09-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

Look at me. I am on a roll. I have been taking a moment or two to travel to some blogs that I have not looked at for a very, very long time. I came across this little status report and thought it was great.

Sunday Sept 26

I'm Feeling...

Proud...Of my son. He is growing into quite the young man. Great game on Saturday!

In awe...of a very HOLY God. I get it, yet I don't.

Thankful... For the birthday gift of a gift card and time to shop thanks to my mom-in-law.

Excited... To see what will come of the confrence my husband just returned from with our pastor and music minister.

Ready...for fall and cool weather.

Amazed...Of God's mercy on a sinner like me.

Achy in the heart...for my sister-in-law who still sick and fighting.

Grateful...For friendships that support, encourage, and lift.

Relieved...My husband is home from his trip.

Hungry for...Nothin'. Just had lunch.

Glad...To see new faces at church.

Regretful...that I didn't budget better last month and it bit me this month.

Happy Sunday to y'all.

Shopping alone

2009-09-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

I went shopping today. Alone. For hours. That hasn't happened in a long time. The closest thing to it was about a year ago when I went with Jamie, Beth and Kelly to Portland. Good times.

I got thinking about blogging while I was trying on clothes at Ross. Standing inches away from the mirror, under florescent lights, viewing myself in all my glory. Not so good times. And I thought to myself 'Self, this would make a great post'. Now I remember why I NEVER EVER try things on at the store. I would rather bring it back than subject myself to that kind of...I don't even know...ugliness. Pasty whiteness that should never be seen in that light or up that close.

I remember when I was in high school there was a coined phrase 'A Perfect Size 10'. It was used by my mother's generation. I was still using odd numbered sizes at that time and a quarter of a 10 at that. Here I am, two decades later, and I am a size 10. Sometime an 8 even if it is a generous label. It doesn't feel so perfect. It feels a little soft in the middle. So what happened?

Hmmm....I think life. One husband. 5 kids. Ministry. And a lazy behind. And you know what, I think I am OK with that. Sure, I would like to be thinner, more toned, and less grey. But it is what it is.

Oops, I did it again

2009-09-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

I had to change the template again. That worn brown background was bugging me. This one feels like fall to me. I like the orange. ;o)

Seasons are changing

2009-09-15T17:30:00.001-07:00

Here I am with another new blog template to commemorate the changing of the seasons. I don't know if I like the worn look to the background...maybe it reminds myself too much of me...worn...vintage...a little scratched up...

School is off to a great start both at home and at Preschool. All things are running rather smoothly considering we have had sickness in the house, new class schedules, an abundance of church activities and football all in full force. I am loving my job which is a great blessing too.

I pulled some of my fall things out of storage and I am looking forward to putting on some sweaters, long sleeves and jeans. I pulled out the crockpot this morning and it brings me great joy to have dinner in the making at 8 O'Clock in the morning. Bring on the cool weather!!

2009-08-31T14:04:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the first day of September. It has been a full summer and I am ready for fall!

Monday: BBQ at the kids school
Tuesday: Tacos
Wednesday: Dinner at church
Thursday: Spaghetti, bread & salad
Friday: French dip sandwiches
Saturday: Hamburgers for the Youth Leaders

Busy week ahead with the start of school which also means the beginning of a new ministry year. We have a BBQ at our house this weekend to go over the next year's direction for the Youth Group. My husband hate the word vision so we are using 'direction'. I keep telling him "without direction the people perish" Proverbs 29:18 but I don't think he is comfortable being the one giving direction. I myself like direction.

I love the security it gives. I like knowing what is expected of me. What I am accountable for. I am not sure if it is the perfectionist in me or maybe the people pleaser that doesn't want to let someone down. I have been reading Martha Peace's book Attitudes of a Transformed Heart lately and it has been good to remember what God asks of me. What He requires of me. Attitudes and actions that are not optional when I feel like it or want to do it. I am so grateful for a God that tells me what is expected and gently guides me back where I need to be. Something about being reprimanded by the Lord brings me comfort and encourages me to be more than I am.

Have a great day!

What I am wanting...

2009-08-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

*To hear from some old blogging friends who are either no longer blogging or have not blogged in a long time. Tell me what is on your mind. Maybe your not reading either. Hmmmm.

*New fall recipes that are easy peasy.

*Cool fall morning and evening but still warm afternoons

*School to start...oh wait, I kinda control that ;o)

I am looking forward to routine. Schedule. Order. Yea Fall! I love the Summer freedom in May. Not so much by August.

Resolutions and new starts

2009-08-11T14:29:00.001-07:00

All things seem to be circling around school starting back up again. Boxes of books are arriving here at the house for the four older kiddos and the preschool is starting to buzz with activity that signals preparation for lots of little ones. I love the preparation for back to school. Clean binders and notebooks, fresh paper, new pencils, new crayons, new glue. It is a great excuse for a little spending spree. It all goes to a good cause, right? We need all this stuff, right?

That being said back to school has been just about all that has been on my mind. I was able to focus last week in the mornings for VBS but the afternoons were full of preschool prep. I am really looking forward to this school year. Lots of new adventures to have. New friendships to build. Old friendships to revitalize. New things to learn.

September is just as good as January for me as far as new starts. I don't know about you but I am ready for some newness. After all I am a new creation. Start creating, Lord!

Status...
Sitting - At the computer.

Drinking - Nothing...maybe I should start?

Thinking - about something interesting to post.

Wishing - for something brilliant to come to mind.

Imagining - myself 10 lbs thinner...

Dreading - going to the grocery store.

Needing - To do a load of laundry

Anticipating - getting into the routine of the school year.

2009-08-03T15:41:00.001-07:00

I have not done this in quite awhile.
This week we have VBS at church so it will be a week of VERY EASY - NO FUSS meals

Monday: BLTs - melon and cottage cheese
Tuesday: Tacos
Wednesday: Church dinner (soup)
Thursday: Hamburgers
Friday: Grilled chicken and salad

My daughter and I are teacher 3rd grade boys this week, and today actually went very well. We are looking forward to a great week.

Isaiah 51:1

2009-07-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

If you have not visited Rachel Anne today I encourage you to click yourself right over there. She has some very profound words today that really spoke to my heart. Maybe yours as well?

2009-07-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have been struggling with something worthwhile to post... I got nothin. So instead here is my favorite song of the moment. I love these guys.

It gets worse before it gets better

2009-06-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

The drywall guy comes in the morning. Yee Haw! There is a light at the end of the tunnel! At the end of July the living room should be done! Drywall, paint, carpet, lighting. Tonight we unhook the internet...so I am expecting lots to catch up on when I re-plug. See you soon bloggy pals!

Just for fun!

2009-06-25T07:59:00.000-07:00

This was just for fun.

1. What are your middle names? Marie and Lyle

2. How long have you been together? together 19 years...married 17.

3. How long did you know each other before you started dating? a couple years.

4. Who asked who out? Ron asked me.

5. How old are each of you? He's 39 and I'm 38.

6. Whose siblings do you see the most? His.

7. Do you have any children together? Yep, FIVE!

8. What about pets? We have tried several times. We are not pet people...we are kid people.

9. Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple? probably trying to raise such a handful of kiddos.

10. Did you go to the same school? Nope.

11. Are you from the same home town? nope, same area though.

12. Who is the smartest? we're smart in different areas. But I am certain he has a higher IQ.

13. Who is the most sensitive? Probably me.

14. Where do you eat out most as a couple? Azteca for Mexican food.

15. Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple? China to get our daughter.

16. Who has the worst temper? Me. I don't think Ron has ever raised his voice.

17. Who does the cooking? Me.

18. Who is more social? Me with adults, him with kids.

19. Who is the neat-freak? Me.

20. Who is the more stubborn? Me.

21. Who hogs the bed? Him.

22. Who wakes up earlier? Me.

23. Where was your first date? Red Robin.

24. Who has the bigger family? His extended family is bigger, our immediate families are the same.

25. Do you get flowers often? a few times a year.

26. How do you spend the holidays? It is different every year. Although we are spending more holidays at our house now that the kids are more and bigger.

27. Who is more jealous? we're not really jealous....

28. How long did it take to get serious? Maybe 6 months

29. Who eats more? he does.

30. Who’s better with the computer? we're both pretty savvy, but he's better with all the technical stuff.

Busy days of summer

2009-06-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

I always look forward to summer time. It really isn't any less busy than the rest of the year, in fact in some ways it is busier. I do love getting some projects done around the house that I have put off all year as well as working in the garden.

Summer is off to a busy start just like the past 10 years. This month is my husband's tenth anniversary at his job as a youth minister. Whew! 10 years! Wow, have we learned a lot about ministry and teenagers. I could probably write a book. The Lord has taught us both so much and there is still so much to learn. You've come a long way baby! Ron and the older kiddos are off on a mission trip this week so things have been a bit quieter around here. Although whenever Ron and the olders are out of town Eden (11) seizes the opportunity and thinks it translates into 'PARTY TIME' for her. We have been to two movies, swimming, had a few friends over, had some one on one time with Grandma and it is only Wednesday! She leaves for camp in a little over a week, then maybe some rest and relaxation for mom. Nah, Evie(8) has great plans for that week already!

The garden is going crazy this year! I have so many tomato plants it is nuts. I planted 8 but at least another 8 have come back voluntarily. Four zucchini plants came back also. I have not been as diligent about weeding this year so when I do weed it is a major undertaking. I planted two raspberry bushes this year and already harvested about a dozen berries. I am so excited because this is the third year in a row I have tried raspberries and both other times they died to the lawn mower. If I can just get them through the year I think next year will be fabulous! I would love to try blueberries next year! Yum!

My mom and I recovered some chairs in my office at work. They were ugly orange and now are plain brown. They are still a little ugly, but at least now they blend in instead of BAM! I am also working on getting ready to paint the girls room. Last summer I painted Eden's room that ended up turning into Evie's room. Now Eden wants her room back so Evie may end up moving again. I have no idea what color...I would love new bedding but we will just have to see how that fits into the budget. We are also getting the living room ready to tape, texture and paint! YAHOO! This is huge for me! This will mean that the entire upstairs is finished! Yea!! I may have to throw a party to celebrate! There is a light at the end of the tunnel!

Have a great day! I am off to enjoy a beautiful day!

Hey y'all

2009-06-13T06:55:00.000-07:00

Summer is in full swing here at the Shelby home. Ron and the kids are gearing up for Sports Camp next week with a mission trip that starts a week from today. Emma has been working her tail off doing yard work and mowing trying to earn money for a truck in the fall, she has a great start. I have had Eli busy working some hard jobs around the house this week including tearing up some old tile in the basement that left his hands all blistered, but it earned him a cell phone so he is a happy guy.

We took a long weekend last week and went and stayed at a friends cabin. It was very relaxing! I watched more TLC and Food Network than I had in a very long time. Also did some mindless entertainment reading which I also don't do very often.

Ron has torn down more walls in our living room and last night ripped off another wall of old sheet rock so we can re-insulate and run the last of the new electrical. This house was built in 1942 and it has taken us the last 6 years to change out all the old and replace with new. We are hoping to have new carpet laid in the living area in the next month or so. This may be difficult though with camps, mission trips and VBS sprinkled in.

I am so loving my job at the preschool, but can see I will really have to work at balance this summer. I find my mind going there a lot when I am at home thinking of ways to improve what is already well done. My family is very supportive and I want to keep it that way and not burn them out, or myself for that matter. I am trying to find ways to do work when everyone else is busy too, like next week at sports camp. Ella and I can go in and work in the mornings. That is the one great thing about working at the preschool, Ella thinks it is great fun to go and play while mom works.

Ella has started asking questions and making statements about God. Last night I was giving her calamine lotion for her mosquito bites and telling her that God would heal them. She said so sweetly "I love God". Last weekend she was pointing out ants to me and I told her how God said that ants are really good workers. She said "God told me to squish them". She makes me smile!

Wow! Look at this post. I guess it is either feast or famine around here! I am looking forward to seeing an old friend next week and getting back to some blogging. I have really missed my blogging friends.

2009-05-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

This is a fun Summer look, don't cha think? Thanks LeeLou!

I am looking forward to a fun day in the sun and pool. Yea Memorial Day! The mark of the beginning of Summer! I am looking forward to burning my skin (it is tradition) and eating too much (also tradition). Thank you to all the service men and women who have fought for our luxurious freedoms.

I wish you a wonderful holiday with friends and family!

Here comes the sun do-en-do-do...

2009-05-21T16:27:00.000-07:00

Life has been moving at warp speed lately...but all good. As I said before I am loving my new job as Preschool Director. This was the last week of classes and tonight we have a program and carnival. Lots of fun. Unbelievably it is all set up and I have time alone at home while baby girl Ella (3) is taking a nap. Again, unbelievable! I really expected to be there all day and night getting ready and cleaning up. Now all that is left is closing up shop next week. Then bring on Summer!

The kids are all finished with their classes! WooHoo! Again just a little housekeeping in that department and then it is a free Summer of sun and fun! I am looking forward to:
*Days at the pool - my in-laws
*Picnics at the park - watching the kids play on toys
*Trips to the water park - Pendelton
*Reading a book or two - any ideas? I am looking for fluff
*Summer Bible Study
*Catching up with friends - I feel very disconnected from my friends lately
*Vacation, camps, and mission trips (I think I am only going on vacation though)
*Grilling dinners
*Watermelon
*Tomatoes from the garden
*Lemonade
*Ice Tea
*Outdoor movies at Smoovies
*Preparing for the next school year at preschool and at home
*ENJOYING MY CHILDREN
*ENJOYING MY HUSBAND
Ahhh...I love SUMMER!

I simply have no thoughts

2009-05-12T16:25:00.000-07:00

Life is busy and my thoughts are scattered. When I sit to post...I got nothin' When I am living life I think...this would make a good post. Always a day late and a dollar short. I am refusing to just post my weekly menus. Lame.
So I am thinking of re-naming my blog I SIMPLY HAVE NO THOUGHTS. That should get some readers, don't cha think?

Here is a little status report of sorts:
Working on: The garden - planting veggies
The yard - killing weeds
The house - tearing down walls...again...and sanding floors

Excited about: My new job as preschool director. I am loving it! It has great hours, great pay, and great coworkers.

Thinking about: How to connect with the girls in my Sunday School class.

Contemplating: How to punish my son for breaking the computer mouse. Every time I click on it I have to put it back together. Grrrr.

Looking forward to: A little vacation in a couple weeks to the mountains. Ahhh...peace...quiet.

Dreading: Putting all the winter clothes away.

Happy: Beth is feeling better!

8 things

2009-04-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Because I have nothing of worth to blog about lately...I am playing with Jamie. It feels cheesy to tag yourself though.

8 things I am looking forward to:
1. Summer - or maybe just lots of warm sunny days ahead
2. Growing my garden this year
3. New job officially starting
4. Paying off some debt
6. Finding some great summer reads including a new bible study...any ideas?
5. Painting the back side of the house
7. Maybe going on a mission/vacation trip this summer
8. Less time working and slower sunny days

8 things I did today:
1. A load of laundry
2. Taxied the kids, ran errands with Ron
3. Planted onions, peas and radishes in the garden
4. Painted a few flowerpots
5. Made dinner
6. Gave baths to two kiddos
7. Checked email, facebook, and blog
8. Hosed off the front walk
9. I could keep going...

8 things I wish I could do:
1. Grow money
2. Never do laundry
3. Travel more
4. Quit eating jelly bellys - should have given them all away
5. Eat more salad
6. Sew
7. Shop without watching prices
8. Drink more water. I would rather drink just about anything else.

8 shows I watch:
1. Biggest Loser
2. Dancing with the Stars
3. Castle (my new love)
4. That's it
5.
6.
7.
8.

8 people I tag:
1. If
2. you
3. want
4. to
5. play
6. consider
7. yourself
8. tagged.

Status Report

2009-04-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

Sitting...at my computer.

Drinking...Nothing. Hmmm...maybe I should be.

Weighing...Thoughts about Easter and how to make it real for my kids. And how much I want to live my life with eternity in my mind.

Thinking...About where God is moving my cloud.

Wondering...How softball practice is going to go tonight for Emma(15) and Eli(12) and Ron (coach).

Reading... Rethink by Steve Wright about how we do student ministry, great read so far. And A woman after God's Own Heart by Elizabeth George. I am going through this book with another woman and it has been so wonderful. It has been many years since I read this book and I had forgotten how great it is.

Contemplating...Twilight? I watched it last week to see what all the excitement was about. I don't get it.

Needing...to do some laundry and clean the kitchen :o)

Monday!

2009-04-06T07:43:00.001-07:00

Monday: Mexican Stack (our version of taco salad)
Tuesday: Grilled Chicken
Wednesday: Dinner at church (tortilla casserole)
Thursday: Spaghetti
Friday: Hamburgers/hotdogs on the grill
Saturday: Taco Macaroni skillet
Easter: Croissant sandwiches, salads, and dessert
Go check out more menus over at The Organizing Jun kie

Last week I found a great blog for the frugally minded. The Grocery Cart Challenge. Gayle tries and succeeds at feeding her family of 6 on $60 a week. That is very impressive to me and I am hoping to learn from her. I made her Babysitter Cookies this weekend and they were great.

Spring is finally here! The weather is just beautiful today. I am looking forward to working in the garden, planting seeds and flowers and getting some sun on my very pale legs. Have a great Monday!!

Picture this

2009-04-02T07:26:00.000-07:00

This has been a long week. We are on Spring Break here which for this youth pastor's family means work crew. Hubby (along with other adult volunteers) takes teams of kids to church members homes for yard clean up and projects. The members then pay the kids for their work to help pay their way to camps and other youth events. This year they got the work done in three long, hard days. Whew! The kids are exhausted. Even the 8 yo and the 11 yo went just for fun ;o)

Yesterday was super busy for me. Along with the work crew stuff going our Girls Mission group from church spent the afternoon assembling pizzas that our church members had ordered with the purpose of the monies going to a mission trip planned for 5 adults to go to Guatemala in 2 weeks. The girls assembled about 50 pizzas and raised over $650 dollars that will be used for water filtration and gospel translation boxes (called proclaimers).

I then had an interview for a job I had applied for. Fun, fun. I hate those sorts of things. (the interview process)

I awoke this morning with a smile on my face. Yesterday was over and a new day had arrived. Yea! I remembered that garbage day was today...and Ron had left town last night for a youth ministers conference so I got up to roll the cans to the street.

When what before my wondering eyes do appear? But a YARD FULL OF SPOONS sticking up our of my grass. My neighbor who was leaving for work said with a smile on her face 'I love your lawn decorations'. Nice.

I am certain that they were not intended for me. So...the children will be removing then later today.

I wish I could share a picture of this loveliness, but my computer needs some TLC and will not cooperate.

Have a great day!!

Upward movement

2009-03-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

It is finished. I have completed the Lord, change my attitude study that I have been working through for the past 10 weeks. So, what is the result? Is it back to business as usual? I sure hope not. This study has been so amazing. I want to say life changing...I want it to be life changing.

When I started this study I had no idea how much my attitudes needed to be changed. God has been busily at work chipping away from many areas in my life. Attitudes that I really did not consider sinful, but they were. I have complained in areas I should have been thankful, I have coveted when I should have been content, I have been critical when I should have loved, I have doubted when I should have practiced faith, and I have rebelled when I should have submitted.

I have been doing the christian walk now for a long time so when I saw the table of contents I thought I had it all figured out. I thought I knew what the author would say about each of those elements, but I did not (I think that may have been a little prideful). Each of the negative or wilderness attitudes were presented and un-layered in a way that I did not expect and it revealed things in my heart I did not like. The first week the author said 'we create our own wilderness by our attitude'. That the children of Israel would not have spent 40 years in the desert had they not doubted, complained, coveted, been critical and rebelled. I don't want to live my life in the desert.

So were do I go from here? God is moving and I want to move with Him. He is showing me some areas in my life that He wants to change. Some of them because they are not edifying and some just because change mixes things up and it is time for movement. It is always fun to see God moving even if I don't know where He is going. I have learned so much about myself and the Lord and I don't want this to be a temporary thing. This process is a bit like surgery, but surgery is to get rid of what is not supposed to be there or fix what is wrong. And that is a very good thing.

Monday!

2009-03-23T16:36:00.000-07:00

Monday again! Seems like they roll around about every 7 days ;o)
Monday: Mexican either tacos or taco salad, we are all about choices.
Tuesday: Grilled chicken on the barbie
Wednesday: Dinner at church (Mac & Cheese)
Thursday: Chicken sandwiches
Friday: Fajitas
Saturday: Spaghetti
I spent the day doing the Costco, Wal-Mart, grocery store run. Fun fun. It would be so much easier to do that if money was no object and we could just buy whatever I want at whatever the price. Shopping for the best deal is time consuming.

Then took a walk this afternoon when the kids finished their classes. Although it was great to take a walk, it is obvious that I desperately need to be doing that much more. (Huff, puff, huff, puff.)

Hey, while you are out blog hopping, go wish Jamie a Happy Grandma Day, she becomes a grandma today for the first time!!

Hello Spring

2009-03-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Sweet Spring,
It is so good to see you. I thought you had decided not to come, but lo' you were just delayed. You always deliver weeks before your due date, bringing hope for warmer days ahead. The promises of cropped pants and flip-flops. I am sure you have good reason. Did Winter tell you you were not needed? Not wanted? Winter is always so greedy, wanting to take more than is rightfully hers, trying to coming early and leaving late. Breathing colder than she needs too. Really she needs an attitude check and a bible study on selfishness. I think I will talk to the Lord about her behavior this year. This is simply unacceptable behavior and will not be tolerated.

Your temperatures today were glorious. I was so happy to have all my windows open, letting your lovely air fill our home with your sweet scent and shooing Winter out the door. I hate to talk behind Winter's back, but she stayed far too long. She really wore out her welcome.

You have been so long in coming I did not properly prepare. My body has been lazy...and it shows. The short sleeved t-shirts show that I have eaten too much pasta and not enough salad. My jiggly thighs show evidence of not enough walking. My belly shows the evidence of the ice cream I indulged in this winter while watching the Biggest Loser. Although our good friend scale says that only five pounds have come to stay this winter, my clothes tell me different. Maybe five in each area? I pledge an alliance to lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, apples, blueberries and the rest of the rainbow along with grilled chicken breasts. I vow self-control over soda, bread, pastas, and chocolate (after I eat the chocolate banana bread I just made).

I am sure this is all your fault Springtime friend. Had you been here sooner I am sure I would have never indulged, but stuck to the plan. Now I must face myself in the mirror. My pasty white self, (that is until I find the self-tanning lotion).

But you are here now. Time to walk, time to plant, time to clean, time to purge (clutter and weight, not meals). I am so glad you are here. And I so look forward to your cousin Summer right around the corner. She brings with her a completely different set of promises and joys! ;o)

Randomness

2009-03-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

I am finding myself in a big of a blog block/slump again. Lots of random little thoughts but no real posts of any substance. I am hoping now that Jamie is back I will be inspired to greatness.

Monday (aka yesterday): French Dip sandwiches and sweet potato fries
Tuesday: BBQ Hamburgers - Now that the sun has decided to come out (somewhat) I think it is time to break out the grill
Wednesday: Dinner at church - corned beef and cabbage
Thursday: Chinese chicken casserole
Friday: Fajitas
Saturday: Spaghetti

Bible study has been great. Every week as we work on a specific attitude God has faithfully given me opportunity to put it in place, even when I didn't think I had issue with a particular attitude. The past week we worked on the wilderness attitude of doubt and this week we are replacing it with the promised land attitude of faith. Sure enough God has been giving me opportunity to doubt or trust Him. He has been faithful and is once again showing me how trustworthy He is and how I can fully place my faith in Him. I really do feel He is helping me change some of my wilderness attitudes.

In other random thoughts:
**My 12 year old son is driving me crazy. I seriously think his brain cells have taken a vacation.

**Emma had spring competitions for piano last weekend. I am so proud of her!!

**Celebrated 17 years being married to my sweetie.

**Spring break is right around the corner...yea!

**Can't wait til it is light enough in the morning to start walking again.

So there you have it. Have a great Tuesday, St. Patty's Day.

The Bachelor and Bible Study

2009-03-05T14:11:00.001-08:00

**Let me preface with this: Reality TV is really not reality at all. It is a simulated reality. But I do love the Biggest Loser and unfortunately got hooked by this seasons Bachelor.

OK, First of all can I just say I cannot believe this guy. I really thought he was a great catch for any of the ladies and had big opinions on who he should send home. I could go on and on about Jason, Molly and Melissa...but I won't.

My bible study this week was replacing an attitude of criticism with an attitude of love. It is so good. Love it, love it, love it.

What do these two have to do with each other?
We have love so messed up. The bachelor kept saying how he could not help his heart and how he felt. He was just following his heart. He didn't regret proposing to one girl then dumping her on national tv because he did love her at the time. Give me a break.

On Ellen DeGeneres she was talking of the situation and said 'You straight people can have your "marriage" if that is what it is all about'. Ouch.

We have things so messed up. So far from God's standards. So far from the truth.

Love is patient, Love is kind, love does not envy, love does not parade itself, is not proud, does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provokes, thinks no evil, does not rejoice in inequity, but rejoices in truth, love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.

I really don't think going on the bachelor will net anyone a life long love (OK, maybe Trista and Ryan). But how crazy is our society to think that this is real love. What security is in this kind of love?

Can I just say I absolutely love my man. He is awesome and I need him more than anyone else on this planet. Does he drive me crazy? Sometimes. But I know I drive him nuts too. But I am crazy for him. I hope I can show him a 1 Corinthians 13 kind of love for the rest of my days.

Enough.

2009-02-22T07:12:00.000-08:00

I am determined to post something more substantial this week than a Monday Menu. That is why I am posting on Sunday ;o) Don't get me wrong, the menus have a great place and keep things running on track in our home (a least for meal time). But my posts have been a bit...I don't know...lame? Hair and menus. Wow, that is deep. I got to see Jamie yesterday and that made me think of how much I miss her posts. Jamie, that is not to guilt you. You just always put a smile on my face when I read your posts. Lately whenever I see Jamie we ask each other how the frugal living is going. That is a post all in itself. But I do want to share what God has been teaching me the last few weeks. Apparently He needs to drive this in deep because for the last four weeks it has been the same lesson. God is enough.

I already talked about this a bit the first week when the lesson was on complaining. Whenever I am complaining it is telling God He is not enough. The second week just reinforced that thought with the lesson on thankfulness. I have really been working on being thankful and saying thank you as often as possible with being sincere. You know what I have learned? I have really not been a very thankful person. The ugly word of entitlement comes to mind.

The past two weeks the lesson has been on covetousness and contentment. God has brought me so far from where I had been in the early years of marriage with covetousness. Yes, the green eyed monster comes out from time to time but really not very often anymore. Yet I learned in week four that I still struggle somewhat with contentment. Again the theme of God is enough. Just like God, He has given me opportunity to practice this theme. Again and again He has given me opportunities to either practice being content or not. Will I trust in Him and truly believe that He is enough. That He is big enough. Involved enough. Cares enough. Provides enough. Loves enough. Will give enough justice.

If you would have asked me before if I believed that God is all I needed I would have given the right answer, yet He is pushing and chiseling away on my grasp of control. Giving me opportunities to trust Him to be enough.

If you think of me pray for me this next week. The lesson is on a critical spirit. I have known from the beginning of this study this would be a hard week to swallow. More chiseling will be involved.

Hair...why do I think about it so much?

2009-02-20T17:13:00.000-08:00

I want a new haircut. Something fun, a little funky, sassy, and sensible. And...I want to look like her.

or...

But this is my favorite...(She is a real person that I virtually know)

Is that asking too much?
That's all I got. Real deep today, I know.

Monday again?

2009-02-16T07:18:00.001-08:00

I am not sure where last week went. I am finding it hard to believe that it is Monday again. I am loving that this Monday however is a holiday. I am not so excited about celebrating President's Day, but very much looking forward to enjoying a day off of work and school. Ron has taken Eli(12) and Eden(11) snowboarding for the day, so I think the rest of the gang and I will go to a movie this afternoon and maybe do a little clearance shopping.

Here is what I have planned for meals this week.
Monday: Chili and cornbread
Tuesday: Mexican stack (kinda like taco salad)
Wednesday: Dinner at church (potato bar, yum!)
Thursday: Homemade mac & cheese
Friday: Fajitas
Saturday: Chicken soup or maybe Tortellini soup
Check out the Organizing Junkie for more meal ideas.

Monday Menus

2009-02-09T19:21:00.000-08:00

Monday: Pork roast, rice pilaf, and green beans
Tuesday: Ella's B-day!! I am sure she would prefer Mac & Cheese but we are having Fajitas
Wednesday: Dinner at church
Thursday: French toast
Friday: Spaghetti, bread, salad
Saturday: Still thinking on this for Valentine's Day, Our Best Bites looks like they will have some yummy things this week. They had chocolate waffles with berry sauce today. Yum!

Those of you that know me very well are wondering if I really made pork roast. Yes, I did. Neither Emma or I ate it, but I made it ;o) I am trying to use the meat I have in the freezer (my dad brought it over)

Happy Monday to y'all! For more menus head on over the Organizing Junkie

simply my thoughts

The list

A mini-revival

Word for 2012

Connected

1000 gifts

Practicing

Just breathe

Joy is

Perspective

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:15-16

Hillsong UnitedDesert Song lyrics

Here we go Fa la la la la....

Thanks for the complaint

Thanksgiving. Perspective. Grace.

Happy Day Project Review

Happy Day Project Day 5

Happy Day Project Day 4

Happy Day Project Day 3

Happy Day Project Day 2

Happy Day Project

Let's try this again

All things new

Is anyone still out there?

What is God's best?

What to wear...or not

Lack of inspiration

Fabulous Forty update

Facebook

Oh yes, I do have an opinion

Hurry!

a little pass along

Fabulous Forty

Burnt Buscuits

Skinny Jeans

Random points

Fabulous Forty

Fabulous Forty

The Love Theme Recap

Goodbye...Hello

The Invisible Woman

Love intercedes

Beloved

Let them win at something

What did you say?

Show the love!

We have a winner!!

300!!!!

Post 299

Post 298

Woo Hoo! Look at me!

Vacation

Not quite sure what happened there...

Holiday Celebrations

Once upon a time....

Laundry Shelby Style

Works for me Wednesday

Soup Swap

Pumpkin Bars

Soups on!

Rollin', rollin', rollin'

Shopping alone

Oops, I did it again

Seasons are changing

What I am wanting...

Resolutions and new starts

Isaiah 51:1

It gets worse before it gets better

Just for fun!

Busy days of summer

Hey y'all

Here comes the sun do-en-do-do...

I simply have no thoughts

8 things

Status Report

Monday!

Picture this

Upward movement

Monday!

Hello Spring

Hillsong United
Desert Song lyrics