A Song in My Heart...

With all that is going on in this world my heart just breaks. This morning as I was spending time in prayer (especially for those families who have lost children in these school shootings) the Lord laid a song upon my heart. It has been such a comfort and encouragement to me and I pray it is to you too.

What A Day That Will Be

There is coming a day
When no heartache shall come
No more clouds in the sky
No more tears to dim the eye
All is peace forever more
Oh that happy golden shore
What a day, glorious day that will be.

Chorus:
What a day that will be
When my Jesus I shall see
And I look upon His face
The One who saved me by His grace
When He takes me by the hand
And leads me through the Promised Land
What a day, glorious day that will be.

There'll be no sorrow there
No more burdens to bear
No more sickness, no pain
No more parting over there
And forever I will be
With the One who died for me
What a day, glorious day that will be.

Wow - October is already here.....

OCTOBER IS PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH

I'm am blessed to have my husband as my pastor - and this month my family and I want to show him even more just how much that means to us.

Each day the kids and I are going to do something special for him. Today started with a personal note from me to him on the bathroom mirror. The kids are going to be cleaning his desk here at the house and decorating it for him. Then, this evening we are making him homemade pizza and snacks for him to nibble on while watching the football game.

Tomorrow the children are planning breakfast in bed ~~ I'm still undecided on my contribution for tomorrow. I have several ideas though!!!!

Where Did It Go????

My mom had a saying when I was growing up that I never understood ~~ but lately I think I know exactly what she meant. She used to say:

MY "GET UP AND GO" HAS GOT UP AND WENT!!!!!!

That is exactly how it has been for me for the last month. I just don't have to desire, drive, oomph, want to, (whatever word you'd like to use) to get myself motivated to do what I need to do.

Now, mind you, I'm getting it all done and I don't have a bad attitude about any of it - but I just feel like I have 50 pound weights on my feet and I'm dragging to do things. Today I was doing some paper work and all I could think about was laying my head down and taking a catnap (very appropriate since I did have a cat on my lap at the time) ~ so I did!!! 15 minutes later Brett came in and saw me, thought it was funny, and went and got his sister so they could both laugh at me!!

I do admit that I felt much better after that little nap. Who would have thought that my doctor would be right when she told me that rest was the only way I was going to get better?!?!?!?

A Great Reminder For Everyone...

Hi All ~~ I know, I know...my posting have been few and far between. I apologize. Besides still battling this pneumonia, I was blessed to get to spend the last 5 days with a very special couple - The Wilson's. They are missionaries to New Zealand. I have known Kim for a while now, but we had never met face-to-face, so this was a very special time for all of us. Now I'm trying to get my routine back on track AND get the rest I need to get over being sick. So, today I got a great thing in my email about GIVING THANKS and decided this is what I would use to get my blogging moving forward again. I have so much to give thanks for ~~ and so do you!!!

"In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

In this beautiful passage, we see several important things that are worthy of consideration. First, it is God's will that we give thanks, "in everything" whether good or bad. We need to be a thankful people. If you are searching out the will of God in the Bible, you might wish to begin here, and begin to give thanks for everything you can think of, but let us look closely at the five questions that are answered here:

In what? In everything;
Do what? Give thanks;
Why? It is the will of God;
In Whom? In Christ Jesus;
Concerning who? Concerning you.

Furthermore, the "This" that we are to give thanks for, whether a good thing or event, or a bad one, may be the will of God for us! If "this" refers to that which we are to thank Him for, then the verse says that it is the will of God that this thing should happen. If "this" means the giving of thanks, then we see that that too is God's will, that we be thankful. Either way, God is glorified.

"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:5-7

Here lies the key to our being able to be able to "in everything give thanks." The key is to do so "in the Lord alway:" God doesn't ask us to rejoice in or give thanks for a tragic, complicated or grief-stricken circumstance. Rather, God says we are to give thanks for how He is going to work in that circumstance and rejoice "in the Lord" as we walk through it.

Some folks may say, "This is NOT possible in MY circumstance!" And I say to those folks, "Yes it is." Let us remember that all things are possible with God and He gives us His strength--through Christ--which strengthens me. It is when we try to endure in our own strength that we fail to have the ability to thank God and rejoice in the Lord in the valleys of our life. God has ordered some really deep valleys in my life and I assure you this is true.

Musing Over a Couple of Verses.....

Deuteronomy 32:46-47 And he said unto them, Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do, all the words of this law. (47) For it is not a vain thing for you; because it is your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong your days in the land, whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.

Last week during our family devotions we read through Deuteronomy 32. Since that time the verses above have been on my heart and on my mind, especially the beginning of verse 47…”For it is not a vain thing for you; BECAUSE IT IS YOUR LIFE….”

Oh, how I wish EVERYONE could see that!!! Salvation, serving, your testimony, and everything else you do is not a vain thing, it is your life!! My prayer for each of you today is that you will take time out of your day today and think about the life God has given you. Are you doing all you can for Him, or are there areas you need to improve in? I know there is for me!

Ladies, we only have one life on this earth, let’s not make it something lived in vain, but instead, make it a life lived in such a way as to bring honor and Glory to the Lord who saved us!!

How Is Your Joy Level??

I woke up this morning with a song already going through my mind ~ it’s considered a children’s song, but I LOVE it…..”I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, down in my heart….” I’m sure many of you know the rest of it!! Then, while going through my emails I got the following (and it goes right along with what I’ve been singing all morning, so I thought I would share it with everyone else!)

Psalms 5:11 But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest Them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.

The joy of God wells up from within and overflows into my life.

In quiet moments of reflection, I feel a stirring of God's joy deep in my heart. This is a joy that is waiting to be given full expression in my life.

I appreciate the happiness I feel in even the simplest of times: when the fun-loving antics of a child cause me to laugh or the sun shines warmly on my face.

In quiet times and in times full with activity, the joy of God wells up from deep within me and overflows out to those around me. And like a ripple in a pond, joy spreads out touching person after person.

Joy also returns to me. I see it in the faces of others and hear it in their laughter. I welcome the joy of God and its power to transform my life. Joy brings out divine qualities in me as I give it full expression in my life.

Have a wonderful day everyone and don’t forget to take time to MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE UNTO THE LORD!!!!!

Finally......

I know this week's menu is nothing special - but at least it's a step in getting my routine back into my home! It just feels good to have this posted on my refrigerator, my shelves stocked again, the house clean, and still feeling good!! God is good all the time, isn't Him?!?!?

OUR WEEKLY MENU

SATURDAY ~~~ We are eating out with my sister

SUNDAY ~~~~~ Deli Sandwiches & chili (crock pot)

MONDAY ~~~~ Tater Tot Casserole and fruit salad

TUESDAY ~~~~ Pork chops, corn, and stuffing

WEDNESDAY ~ Spaghetti & French Bread (crock pot)

THURSDAY ~~ Chicken, mashed potatoes, & gravy

FRIDAY ~~~~~ Calazone and salad

Fall is in the air......

Only in North Dakota ~~ yesterday our temperature was 90 degrees and Saturday and Sunday they are saying we will have rain (with a mixture of SNOW) and highs only in the 40's!!!!!

This evening we are going to enjoy a high school football game while it is still nice enough to enjoy sitting outside!! My dear, sweet hubby enjoys football in any weather, but I am definitely a fair weather fan.

Tomorrow my sister and her husband are coming to town for the day. We are going to go to the street fair and enjoy the sights and then go to one of my favorite restaurants for dinner ~~ The Texas Roadhouse!

I am really looking forward to a nice, slow-paced, (still taking it very easy as I get over this yuck I have had for the last few weeks) weekend. I have a ton of school work to do, but I can do that on the couch with my laptop.....I just LOVE technology.

Have a great evening and weekend ladies!!!!!

Thank You ~~ Thank You!!!!!!!

(Sorry I have been missing in action lately - the main reason has been I have been battling pneumonia since the end of August. Because of that I haven't had a whole lot of energy.)

NOW ~~ THE REAL REASON FOR THIS POST......

I have been wanting to give my blog a new look for quite some time know, but I am just not very knowledgeable when it comes to things like that (not good for someone getting their Master's degree in Information Systems and Technology, I know!!)

While reading one of my favorite blogs I read about Janet and her website design business ~ Pine Blooms Website Designs. (I'd add her link, but I don't know how....HAHAHAHA) So, I decided to email her and see what she could do for me.

Isn't my blog absolutely beautiful?!?!?!?! She did all that for me!!!!! I gave her some information about me and what I like and TADA!!!! I have a beautiful new look.

My sister took one look at it and said, "Yep, that is you 100%!!!!"

So, Janet, I just want you to know you do absolutely wonderful work and if anyone is ever looking for someone to give them a face lift I will point them in your direction!!!!!

Happy Labor Day!!!

Elisabeth asked me what we are celebrating on Labor Day. My answer....."I'm not really sure."

Growing up in CA Labor Day was the last holiday before school started again. (In ND it's the first day off for the public schools, since they start in August.) As I grew up Labor Day was a day off from work and a time that signified the end of summer. So, when Elisabeth asked that question I decided we would find our answer together ~~ Internet here we come!!!!

We had a great time searching sites to find our answer. Here is some of what we found out:

Labor Day is a United States federal holiday that takes place on the first Monday of September.

The origins of the American Labor Day can be traced back to the Knights of Labor in the United States and a parade organized by them on September 5, 1882 in New York City.

Labor Day has been celebrated on the first Monday in September in the United States since the 1880s. The September date has remained unchanged, even though the government was encouraged to adopt May 1 as Labor Day, the date celebrated by the majority of the world.

Labor Day is generally regarded simply as a day of rest.

Forms of celebration include picnics, BBQs, fireworks displays, water activities, and public art events.

Families with school-age children take it as the last chance to travel before the end of summer.

One of the largest modern traditions of Labor Day in the United States is the annual telethon of the MDA, hosted by Jerry Lewis to fund research and patient support programs for the various diseases grouped as muscular dystrophy.

I am lacking motivation.....

As many of you know, I am in the process of getting my Master's Degree through Minot State University. I love learning and when I got this scholarship opportunity I was thrilled. All of my classes are online, so I can do them in the comfort of my own home, but for some reason I just can't get motivated this term!!

Classes started last week and usually by now I have a routine going and am loving every minute of it. Not this time, though. I'm doing my work - sitting down each day as the kids do their school work and working on my assignments, but I'm not real motivated about it.

I'm sure part of it was just that Jeff was gone all last week and I have been sick for the last 7 days myself (finally went to the doctor today and found out I have pneumonia!! Maybe that's another reason I don't have much motivation!!) I'm sure things will get back to normal in the next day or two - until then I'll just keep truckin' along.

I think right now I'll put the books away and get ready for church ~~ that always gets me motivated!!!!

Hey Ladies ~~~ Did you know.......

Psalms 118:24 This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.


Did you notice the beginning of this verse? "THIS IS THE DAY" – not yesterday, not tomorrow, not next week or last week.

I think sometimes it is so easy for us to carry over our emotions from the days before or get so focused on the rest of our week that we forget that THIS IS THE DAY WHICH THE LORD HATH MADE.

We need to learn to rejoice in today, to be glad that the Lord has given us THIS day to serve Him.

I know we all go through trials and tribulations. I know some days are a lot harder than others – but each one of them is a gift from the Lord…personalized just for you!!!!

Take a minute today and thank the Lord for giving you TODAY and then rejoice in it. Before you know it today will be gone. Make it special while you can!!

I can tell summer is winding down......

I slept in this morning ~ didn't get up until almost 6:30 ~ and it was still dark outside! That's just one of the ways here in North Dakota that we can tell fall is on the way. I love all our hours of sunlight we have here in the summer time!!!

Having been born and raised in Southern California, I always have to try to pysche myself up for these North Dakota winters. While I admit that I truly love where God has us, I still (after over 20 years) do not like the cold whether. I'm just a warm weather girl!!! I love being able to just run outside and not worry about whether I have enough layers on so that I don't get frost bite.

Fall here is gorgeous though - something I never experienced in California. I love watching the leaves turn, spending afternoons raking (yes, I love to rake!!!), the smells of autumn evenings, and the crispness of a fall morning!

Well, time to get moving ~ I promised my hubby cinnamon rolls today and I think I'll make an extra batch for some friends of ours.

Susan Got Me......

1. Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 18, and find line 4:

~~ Also, since mission-critical business information systems tend to exist for a long time…..(you don’t really want to hear more out of a college textbook, do you)

2. Stretch your left arm out as far as you can:

~~ I can reach the telephone.

3. What is the last thing you watched on TV?

~~ The KJV on DVD. My hubby and I listened to Deuteronomy last night

4. Without looking, guess what time it is:

~~ 12:00pm

5. Now look at the clock.

~~ 11:57 am

6. With the exception of the computer, what can you hear?

~~ Just a Little Walk With Jesus

7. When did you last step outside?

~~ This morning when I went for a walk

8. Before you started this survey, what did you look at?

~~ I was working on my college classes

9. What are you wearing?

~~ A blue skirt and a white and light blue striped shirt with mid length sleeves

10. Did you dream last night?

~~ I don’t remember

11. When did you last laugh?

~~ This morning talking to my 17 year old son

12. What is on the walls of the room you are in?

~~ Family pictures, a clock, and 2 wall paintings

13. Seen anything weird lately?

~~ My daughter’s hand after she was stung by a bee on Monday – she had a big lump right in the middle of her hand that was swollen, red and bruises

Where did #14 go?

15. What is the last film you saw?

~~ The Shaggy Dog

16. If you became a multi-millionaire overnight, what would you buy?

~~ Other than giving to my church, I can’t think of anything I would do with it right away….I’m not much of a spender.

17. Tell me something about you that I don't know.

~~ I would love to adopt more children

18. If you could change one thing about the world, regardless of guilt or politics, what would you do?

~~ I would make sure that every person had at least one opportunity to be saved. (I love Susan’s answer, so I’m keeping it!!)

19. Do you like to dance?

~~ I admit that I do…..but never in public

20. George W Bush:

~~ He is the President and I give him the honor and respect due that position. I feel he has done a good job, especially considering all that has taken place during his term.

21. Imagine your first child is a girl, what do you call her?

~~ She would have been named Miranda – but our first was a boy. By the time we had a girl we had decided to name her Elisabeth

22. Imagine your first child is a boy, what do you call him?

~~ Our first child was a boy and we named him Jeffrey.

23. Would you ever consider living abroad?

~~ If that is where God had for us to live, I sure would!!!!

24. What do you want God to say to you when you reach the pearly gate?

~~ "Well done thou good and faithful servant.”

I've been silent the last few days.....

I guess you could say I am just not used to my hubby being gone, so I haven't been myself lately. Things have gone very well, they are just different.

Yesterday was wonderful ~~ but then again, any time I get to spend the day in church I think it is wonderful. Every time I get to go to church I think of Psalms 122:1 ~~~ "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD."

We had a missionary yesterday and they were such a blessing. Last night while they were there we spent over 30 minutes singing hymn after hymn, then we were blessed with a wonderful sermon from Matthew 13 ~~ "The Sower and the Seed."

I'm looking forward to today. Nick and I are going to do the yardwork so everything looks nice when Jeff gets home on Wednesday. I love working in the yard, especially when the temperature isn't too hot. Other than that, it should be a pretty normal day around here ~~ the kids are working on their school work and the laundry is almost done. Maybe we'll have a picnic on the freshly mown grass.....or maybe just on the deck!!!

God is So Good.....

2 Corinthians 9:8 ~~ And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

I was reading a little thing today about the goodness of God and it brought a smile to my face.

What a thing to sit and dwell on ~ the goodness of God in my everyday life!! It doesn’t matter how many struggles, trials, or hard times we may face, I know that God is active in every area of my life.

How many times to people have things occur in their life that they try and try to fix themselves and then FINALLY ~~ AS A LAST RESORT ~~ they turn to God??

Well, I have purposed in my heart to look to God FIRST, not last. There is nothing that is in my life that He is not aware of. He knows more than I will ever know. He knows the why’s and the how’s – and His timing is perfect.

I have seen this so much just in the last week since Jeff’s father passed away. We have been so blessed to see God’s hand working through it all. God has arranged things that we would NEVER have been able to do on our own – including saving us over 50% on the airfare for Jeff to fly to Oregon!!!

Take time today to dwell on the goodness of God in your everyday life. Walk from room to room and count your blessings – you’ll be amazed at how many you may have overlooked!!

We're running a race....

Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (2) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Two of my children started school yesterday and Hebrews 12:1 was one of their memory verses they started working on. As I was reading that verse, Elisabeth and I started talking about it. I thought I’d share some of what we discussed.

1. This race we’re running is not a short sprint – we won’t be done with this race until the day we enter Heaven.

2. Once you’re saved God sets your race course out for you – your goal is to run that race for life … and even more importantly, run it to win

3. How do you know you’re on the course?? You’re actions bring honor and glory to the Lord

4. To accomplish this you must commit yourself to a life of discipline and a life of seeking God’s will and following it (even when the way seems hard)

5. You must stay focused to the tasks at hand…if you start looking too far ahead or turning around to see what you’ve already past, you will trip or get off course

6. Avoid distractions – Psalm 119:105 says, Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path – don’t worry about anything outside of that area of light

7. You must get rid of any sin in your life that will slow you down or serve as a hindrance


8. Remember to run this race with the hope and anticipation of what is ahead at the finish line ~~ HEAVEN and an eternity with our Saviour!!

9. And lastly ~~ never stop running until you cross that finish line and fall into the arms of God!!

How is your race today, Ladies?

Thank you for the prayers

We have been truly blessed this weekend from all those praying for us. Our church has been such a blessing - in more ways than one. One of the biggest things they have done is that they are paying for Jeff to go back to Oregon and take care of some final things in regards to his dad. Just taking that concern from him was more than we could ever ask for.

Jeff will be leaving on Thursday morning. He will be driving. It is a 1600 mile trip and I am thankful that at least 1 - and possibly 2 - of my sons will be going with him and helping with the driving and such. They are due to arrive in Oregon on Friday and if everything goes well they should be home by the 22nd or 23rd.

Please continue to pray for him - especially for traveling mercies there and home.

On a more positive note (and on a completely different subject) Jeff is really looking forward to this evening. Several men of the church have arranged (through me) to come over to our house for a big chili feed with all the fixin's and a night of football!! Go Vikings!!! I am so thankful for the men in our church and the love and support they show my husband ~~ we are truly blessed!!!

Needing a little prayer.....

The death of someone you love is never easy. But what makes that loss even harder is knowing that the one you loved was not saved. Today my heart is aching for so many reasons.

My father-in-law passed away last night. This is a man who has been in my life since I was 15 years old. He more like a father to me than I can even explain. Although he has been sick for quite some time, to find out he died last night was a shock – there was no warning that things had gotten that serious.

Jeff and I have spent over 15 years witnessing to him ~ sharing the Gospel, sharing our testimonies, and trying to show him his need for the Lord. But to no avail. It was the one subject he always changed, didn’t want to hear about, and wouldn’t talk about. He has never even heard Jeff preach.

It breaks my heart to see Jeff hurt so much. He is hurting over losing his father, but hurting even more because he know where his father will spend eternity.

I am so glad we were able to go and see him in June. Living 1600 miles away doesn’t make it easy for frequent trips, but Jeff said he knew that would be his last opportunity to see his dad alive ~ his last opportunity to witness to him face-to-face. I guess you could say it was also our last chance to hug him and say good-bye in person.

Please, please pray for us. We are now in the process of arranging to get Jeff back to Oregon next week. There will be no funeral (another thing that is really hard for Jeff – he wanted that time to witness to the rest of his lost family) but the family is planning to all get together and say good-bye. I wish our whole family could go, but without a miracle that won’t be possible.

Mrs. B Asked......

Mrs. B, over at Be Not Conformed (I'd put a link here, but I don't know how) asked on her blog......

What is your *most favourite* housekeeping duty and why?

What is your *least favourite* housekeeping duty and why?

I actually have 2 favorites ~~ I love to dust and vacuum!!! I don't know why but I do. I love seeing vacuum lines in the carpet and the shine on the furniture. I do both at least once a day!!!!





My LEAST favorite ~~~~ folding clothes! I am so glad that Elisabeth and Brett both REALLY LIKE IT. I let them do it to thier hearts content.

How about you????

A Titus 2 Woman

The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Titus 2: 3-5

I’m sure each of us has read this passage numerous times – but when I was reading this yesterday the Lord spoke to my heart in a different way. Maybe it had to do with yesterday being my birthday and turning 40 (something that didn’t bother me one bit, but others sure thought it was a big deal.) Reading this passage made me realize that in several ladies eyes I am one of the aged women that this passage speaks of.

Each of us is one of these two categories – the aged women or the young women – and age is NOT the only determining factor. The major factor is where we are with the Lord. In many ways each of us are a little of both of these types of women – we have things that we can teach others and things we can learn from others.

Have you matured to the place that others are looking to you as an example of being a Godly wife and mother? Or are you still young in your walk and needing someone to learn from?

Either way, each of us has a responsibility. We are either to be living in such a way as to set an example for those watching, or we are to be following the Godly example we are being shown.

If you are one of the aged women, how are you doing? Remember, there are young ladies watching you – some being your own children. Are you walking in such a way that becometh holiness and teaching good things?

If you are a young woman are you allowing yourself to follow the example being set for you? Are you learning to love your husband and children, to keep your home, and live a life that shows honor and respect to your husband and the Lord?

Be willing to fulfill those roles. Be both apt to teach and humble enough to be teachable.

I got the funniest card today.....

My friend gave it to me for my birthday.

The outside of the card has two ladies (you can only see them from the neck up) eating cookies and drinking coffee together. It says, "Isn't it great that we can still fit into what we wore in high school!?!?"

On the inside you see ALL of them (dressed in baggy robes) and it says, "Shoes and sock DO count, don't they!?!"


AND FOR THOSE OF YOU WONDERING......YES, THEY COUNT IN MY BOOK!!!!!!

What Shall I do????

It's not often that I have a lot of leisure time on my hands - but yesterday and today I have been spoiled rotten by my family. My birthday is Monday, but I am getting one gift a little early....they have cleaned my house till it shines (even the windows!!!!) They did that so that I could have a day of leisure. Now I have to decide what I'd like to do with this time.

I've already done some baking ~~~ and my house smells as good as it looks, if I do say so myself!! There is a wonderful aroma of banana bread filling the air as I type this. Now I have a couple of options to choose from.....do I want to:

SPEND THE EVENING CROSS STITCHING





OR CURL UP WITH A GOOD BOOK??????

Everyone is gone for another 3 hours.......hhhhhhmmmmmmmm......maybe I'll do both!!!!

I forgot.......

Every Tuesday I write a short devotional thought for a wonderful group of ladies I am a part of ~~~ The Women At The Well. I then post the same thing on my blog, but this Tuesday I got caught up in things going on at home and forgot - so I am doing it now. Just a way to muse on the things of God throughout the day!!

"Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked." Psalm 97:10

Do you love the Lord?

I don’t know how many times I have heard a person say, “Oh, I love the Lord!" But their life is full of habitual sin. Being a pastor's wife I have people tell me all kinds of things. I have even had people say they just aren't ready to give up a certain sin in their life. That tells me they love that sin more than they love the Lord.

I know none of us will ever reach a point of sinless perfection, but none of us should have a “pet” sin in our lives that we aren’t willing to let go of either!! We need to regularly examine our hearts and make sure we aren’t letting sin creep in and take up residence. I pray that each of us truly loves the Lord and HATES EVIL.

FINALLY...A Slow Week & An EASY Menu

We haven't a slow paced week in quite a while ~~ so since we do I made the menu to be nice and easy too.

MONDAY ~~~~~~~~ Chili and cornbread
TUESDAY ~~~~~~~~ Chili dogs, fruit & veggies
WEDNESDAY ~~~~~ Bacon Sloppy Joes and salad ( a family favorite)
THURSDAY ~~~~~~ Chicken Parmesan and Brocolli
FRIDAY ~~~~~~~~~ Cheddar Chicken spaghetti & French bread (my new recipe for the week)
SATURDAY ~~~~~~ Marinated pork chops, stuffing, and corn on the cob
SUNDAY ~~~~~~~~ Sausage gravy and biscuits

Anyone else want to share their menu for the week????

One of My Favorite Rooms.....

I love my home, I truly do!! Over the years sense we built it we have slowly been remodeling it room by room. Remodeling is something that my wonderful husband absolutely LOVES to do. I love to outcome, but am not a big fan of the overall process and mess that goes along with it.

My favorite room in the house has not been remodeled yet - it will probably be the last one we do. That room is the kitchen. I LOVE to cook. I love hanging out in the kitchen cooking while the kids sit at the counter working on school or visiting with friends. It is probably one of my favorite things to do.

Last night Jeff and I started talking about how I would want to remodel it, once we get to that point. Then we got on the computer and started looking at kitchens. Here is the one I liked the best:I love the layout, the openness, all the work space, and the lighting!!! What is really great is that this type of design and layout will work in our home. So, I think I have discovered my dream kitchen!!!

How about you? What is your favorite room in the house - and why??

I Have It All!!!!

"That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." 2 Tim. 3:17

I was thinking this morning about just how Great our God truly is!! According to 2 Timothy, He has "thoroughly furnished" us with everything we need to do good works. We are lacking in NOTHING when it comes to our ability to serve the Lord. Then I started thinking…just what has He given each of us to make us so fully equipped? HE GAVE US HIS SON AND THE LIVING WORD OF GOD!!!

Look at 2 Timothy 3:16…”All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”

God has given us ALL SCRIPTURE!! When we hide God’s Word in our hearts we will be "perfect" and prepared unto every good work. How exciting is that?!?!?

Ladies, we (speaking to myself especially here) have no excuse for NOT doing the work of God. We are prepared for it already, and quite able to do it, according to Gods Word. All it takes is taking God’s Word and applying it to our lives – I know we can do this ~~ and even more importantly, so does God!

Look what these verses tell us…ALL scripture is given by...God. He is the Giver, and the Provider, and the One who gives us the power to do His work! He never commands us to do what He does not already prepare us to do! He tells us to do good, but He also makes it easy for us to do it by giving us the "tools" and resources we need to do it. All we have to do is be willing and obedient.

We are without excuse when faced with a decision of what to do. God says we are to do good, at all times, everywhere.

One thing that will hinder our ability to do that is sin in our lives. It will effect our prayers, our walk, our talk, and our attitude. Sin will water down our effectiveness and our desire to do good. We will be much more effective, and see much more fruit in our lives if we will get the sin out. My prayer this morning was…

Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

I pray the same for each of you. Have a wonderful day Ladies!!!

I'm such a copy-cat.....

My sweet friend, Tammy, did this yesterday and I really liked it - so I thought, "Why not do it too?"

Ten things you've done today:

Spent time in prayer
Did my Bible study
Fed my cats
Made coffee
Showered
Unloaded the dishwasher
Did some accounting work for a company
Kissed my dear, sweet hubby
Took out stuff for dinner tonight
Put away a load of clothes

Nine things you need to do tomorrow:

Finish the church bulletin
Go to Nick's baseball games
Take my little ones to Fort Lincoln
prepare dinner for the single men at our church
Clean the church
Snuggle up with my hubby and watch a baseball game
Give my cats a bath
Clean the inside of my van
Get clothes ready for church on Sunday

Eight items always in your pantry:

Extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
A full pepper mill
Garlic - LOTS of garlic
Pasta
Rice
Flour
Distilled water

Seven things you need to feel "at home":

My family
My Bible
My pillow
My fuzzy blanket
My cats - Elliott and Tanner
My favorite coffee mug
A bath tub

Six things that sum up your childhood:

Time with my Grandad
The tree in the front yard
My dog, Patches
Playing with my cousins
My mom was my best friend
School - I LOVED school

Five items of clothing you wear again and again:

My denim skirt
A baggy sweatshirt
My khaki skirt
A black skirt
My denim jumper

Four places you've lived:

Simi Valley, CA
Eugene, OR
Minot AFB, ND
Bismarck, ND

Three books you've loved reading recently:

My Bible
I'll Love You, Forever (It's a childrens book, but I read it regularly to my kids)
A book called Tornado in a Junkyard

Two heart's desires:

To live my life for Christ
To see my family do the same

One thing everyone reading this can pray about for you:

That I can be a blessing to my family and my church.

Today I am......

Your Emoticon Is Smiling

Right now, you're feeling cheerful and content - without a care in the world.

What Emoticon Best Represents You Right Now?

Biblical Thoughts for this Tuesday

ARE YOU WEARY??

"He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:29-31

Have you ever felt so weak that you felt like you just didn't have the strength to go on? I know I have!! But then God renews my strength and I know I can keep moving forward. That’s what I love about this verse in Isaiah – the thought of mounting up with wings as eagles, running, not being weary, and not fainting!!!! I tell you….just reading that verse energizes me!!!

Things get tough, there’s no getting around that part of life. But we just need to wait upon and trust the Lord. When we do, we will find that time where we are renewed and there really is no feeling that can compare to that moment!

Whatever you're going through right now ~ even if it feels hopeless ~ THERE IS HOPE!!!! There will be a time of your renewing and there will be a time where you will be delivered and when that time comes you will appreciate it.

Think about it, if you were always strong and you never felt weak, would you appreciate it? Would you think about where that strength came from?

When we're weak we hope and wait for that strength that can only come from the Lord, and when we get it we are ever so appreciative for it.

It is the tough times that we go through that brings glory to God. It is when we long for something that we appreciate it the most ~ and when we are most thankful for it.

God wants us to appreciate the things that He gives us. Whether it is strength, food, clothing or anything else, the Lord wants us to thank Him for these things and know where they come from. Whatever trial you're going through, remember…

Romans 8:28 ~~ And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

After years of praying about this

I am FINALLY goes to start a project I have dreamed of. I know this project is going to takes me years to put together, but I am ready for the task (and the challenge.)

I accepted the Lord as my personal Saviour on October 28th, 1989 and ever since then I have loved to hear testimonies from others. Then I began thinking, "Wouldn't it be great to collect testimonies of others?" How many times do you get to hear the testimonies of just ordinary, everyday people? We can read books of famous preachers, missionaries, and such - but what about all the rest?

I know many of you ladies who read my blog have blogs of your own (and many more readers than I do.) So, I am asking for two things

1) I would love for you to send me your testimony of salvation - either as a comment on my blog or in an email.

2) I would really appreciate it if you would put a little something on your own blogs so that your readers could possibly send their testimonies to me as well.

I am also putting out the requests to several of the churches I know and praying that over time this will spread and I will gather numerous testimonies from around the world.

My prayer is that as I gather these testimonies they can be used to encourage the saved and point the lost to Christ.

As the storm passes by......

Last night this was the song we were singing at my house:

In the dark of the midnight have I oft hid my face,

While the storm howls above me, and there's no hiding place.

'Mid the crash of the thunder, Precious Lord, hear my cry,

Keep me safe till the storm passes by.

Till the storm passes over, till the thunder sounds no more,

Till the clouds roll forever from the sky;

Hold me fast, let me stand in the hollow of Thy hand,

Keep me safe till the storm passes by.


We had some serious stroms in and around our city last night, but we were so fortunate to not have any damage by them.

Four tornados were spotted on the ground, but only one did any serious damage ~ and that was to a small city about 40 miles north of us, called Coleharbor.

Coleharbor has a population of about 100. It is a farming community right off the highway. All but 2 of the houses in the town were damaged, along with the school (it was completely destroyed) the store, grain elevators, and silos. It was amazing that with all the damage there were only 2 minor injuries.

Don't Worry!!!!!

"For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee." Isaiah 41:13

Last night I was sitting up late talking with my son, Jeffrey. During our conversation he asked me, “Are you worried?” It was such a blessing to be able to say, “No.”

After that, him and I talked about ‘worry.’ We talked about how worrying can’t change anything except our own hearts. It causes us undue stress and takes our focus off of the Lord. It was a great time spent talking together.

You see, I used to be a big worry-wart! Fear and worry would overtake my thoughts. But the more I read my Bible and studied it; I have learned that I shouldn't worry about things because God is in control of each and every situation in my life.

Look at what Isaiah 41:13 tells us…God is holding our right hand!!! He is right there walking with me, leading me when I am hesitant, and comforting me when things are tough. He is telling me that I don't need to constantly battle my fears or worries because that is all they are ~~ they are fears, NOT truths. Fear is the expectation of something bad that I THINK MIGHT happen. Fear is worry about something that hasn't happened and with God on my side there is NOTHING He won’t help me get through.

People live in fear and worry so often that they don't really get a chance to live. Take the Lord's hand and let Him guide you and protect you. Then you can sing the song…..DON’T WORRY!!! BE HAPPY!!!!

We are so blessed.....

As we sat here tonight having family devotions I did some serious thinking of just how blessed we are ~~ especially here in America. During one of the messages we had at Family Camp the preacher talked about the things in our lives that we have a tendency to take for granted. We were talking about some of these things during our devotions tonight ~ an evening of "Count Your Blessings."

Now that my family and I have shared blessings I would love to hear from the sweet ladies that take time to read my blog......share 5 "little things" that are a blessing to you ~ things that you may not ordinarily think of. Here are my 5 OUT OF THE ORDINARY blessings:

1. A home with central air conditioning (it's 95 degrees outside)

2. A Bible cover that my loving husband spent weeks finding so it would be "just right"

3. A special houseplant (long story) that is almost 7 years old

4. Having Godly friends that I have never met face-to-face, but feel as though I have

5. Hearing my children laughing as they play in the pool

A Day at Family Camp

Tomorrow morning we are heading out for the day to Family Camp in Grand Forks. This is a camp that is dear to our hearts. We have been going for the last 15 years. This year will be a little different for us because we are only going out for one day instead of the whole week ~ but God knows the reason it worked out this way and we are just thankful for the day we get to go.

The kids are as excited as we are. They have friends they only get to see once or twice a year there, so this time is special to them too. We are all looking forward to hearing the preaching. We are leaving early enough to make the morning sessions and we won't leave until after the evening message. It will be a long day, but well worth it.

I pray each of you have a blessed and safe 4th of July!!!

Never too old to need their mom....

The last week has been a busy one, with Jeffrey ~ my 20 year old ~ having been sick since last Sunday and ending up in the hospital since Wednesday. Praise the Lord...he is home now and doing better. He even made it to church this morning!!! AMEN!!!!

One thing I have learned from this is that even though he is 20 ~ and an adult in the eyes of the world ~ there are times when a young man (who is not married) still needs his mom. This was one of those times. Even when he was in the hospital, being very well cared for, I know it made him feel better when I was there to help with things.

I know one day God will provide a wife for him and I do look forward to that day. I look forward to seeing him start a family of his own and watching them serve the Lord together. Until then I am thankful for each thing I am able to do for ~ and with ~ my children. I am truly blessed!!!

My Family's favorite cookies.....

A friend of mine on another blog (Tammy's Times) has asked for our favorite cookie recipes. I am adding mine here. If anyone else is interested just check out Tammy's blog - on my side bar - and join in the fun!!

SEVEN LAYER BARS

Ingredients
-		1/2 cup butter or margarine (1 stick)
-		1 white, yellow, or chocolate cake mix
-		1 cup chocolate chips, more if desired
-		1 cup peanut butter 1 cup butterscotch chips
-		1 1/2 cups chopped cashews, walnuts, or almonds
-		1 1/2 cups sweetened coconut (shredded or flaked)
-		14 ounces sweetened condensed milk

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• Melt butter or margarine in bottom of 9 x 13" baking pan, tilting pan slightly to coat all sides. Mix cake mix and melted butter, pat mixture lightly to make a crust.
• Combine remaining ingredients (except condensed milk) in large bowl, then spread on top of crust
• Pour can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over top and bake 25-30 minutes.
• Remove from oven. Allow bars to cool slightly; cut while still war

I have used this recipe as one of the first desserts I teach my kids to bake. It is so simple - no measuring required - and flexible. They love mixing all the things together and pouring them onto the crust. And to top it all off ~~ they make your house smell wonderful!!!

This Little Light of Mine.....

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16

We are getting ready to go to family camp next week and one of the things my kids always make sure they have is a flashlight and extra batteries. The reason for this is that their favorite game at night is flashlight tag. There usually ends up being 30 or more kids out on the baseball field after dark playing tag – but if their light starts to go dim they have trouble seeing and being seen.

The same is true with us – if the light of Christ that we have in us starts to get dim – from sin, being backslidden, being overcome by the cares of this world – we will have trouble following the path God has for us AND it will be hard for us to guide others to Christ.

I personally feel this is an area we can all work on. If we're shining bright, it doesn't hurt to shine even brighter! If people do not see a difference in us, then they will not know the importance of following the Lord.

However, being a bright light isn't something that comes over night. This is something that we have to want and pray for. It is something we have to work on everyday – I guess you could say that each day we have to make sure our batteries for our light are charged!

Being a bright light, isn't just putting on a smile. Being a bright light is helping and encouraging others. Being a bright light is not talking bad about others. It is not sitting outside of your church gossiping about why so and so didn't show up to church this Sunday! Being a bright light, is not trying to act spiritual to impress others! To be a bright light, you must have your eyes off of people and on the Lord! That means don't worry about what someone else thinks of you, worry about what the Lord thinks of you. Once you develop a close relationship, then and only then can you be a light!

I can't be a light if I'm living in sin and neither can you! If you do not have the love of God, in your heart then do not think for a moment that you are being a bright light!

How bright is your light shining today?

Is this happening to anyone else????

All weekend I have been having a problem with Bloglines and I'm wondering if it's just me. Next to SEVERAL of the blogs I follow there is a [!]. I've read the little explanation that goes along with it and I don't think it is something I can fix on my end.

Since I'm fairly new to using Bloglines I figured I would check with others and see if this is happening with you too.

Trying to keep smiling........

I am discovering I don't care for baseball very much. Now, don't get upset with me....I know it is supposed to be the American past time, but I think I'm suffering from "burn out!!"

Nick has double headers every night (except last night because we had church) this week. They start at 5:30pm and we are fortunate if we get home before 10pm. That is just a little too much baseball for me!!!

Jeff and I have always made it a point to support our kids when they are in activities - band, choir, sports, etc. We make sure we are there in the crowd cheering them on whenever possible. But ~~ this is a bit much. For some reason they have 2 weeks of almost constant double headers and then things calm down a bit. I don't know how those boys do it - I'm exhausted just GOING to all these games!!!

I have to admit (whispering this very quietly) I am really glad that Friday and Saturday's games are AWAY and I get to stay home!! The team will be traveling to Valley City for a tournament and Nick will be staying with the pastor's family there in town and they will go to the games and cheer him on!!! I am SSSOOOOOOO thankful for good friends!!!!

Now or Later?????

Exodus 8:9-10 And Moses said unto Pharaoh, Glory over me: when shall I intreat for thee, and for thy servants, and for thy people, to destroy the frogs from thee and thy houses, that they may remain in the river only?
And he said, To morrow. And he said, Be it according to thy word: that thou mayest know that there is none like unto the LORD our God.

I'’m sure over the years we have all heard sermons preached about "“another day with the frogs." And I know every time I read this passage I wonder, "“why would Pharaoh want to wait until tomorrow to get rid of something so disgusting when he could have said NOW??"”

As I was reading this yesterday God spoke to my heart and told me to take time and meditate on things in my life. What things am I saying "“tomorrow"” to? And I admit there were some things I needed to repent of.

So, today my hope for each of you is that you will take time to go through your life and your heart. Are there things you are putting off until "“tomorrow?"” Things like having a consistent prayer life, reading your Bible, submitting to your husband, being the wife and mother that God has shown you He wants you to be....the list goes on and on ~ but whatever it is, don'’t keep putting it off. If God has shown you something, NOW is the time to begin to correct it.

2 Corinthians 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)

A Present For My Readers......

As most of you know, I have little girl (quickly growing up....faster than I would like.) As her daddy says, "she is a true girlie, girl!!!" My girlie, girl loves pretty dresses, but the problem is she just keeps growing. This means I know have a box of pretty dresses that are no longer below her knee.

Last night I had a lady from my church bless me abundantly by giving me a ton of clothes. (Have have lost 50 pounds over the last year and desperately needed things that fit better.) I had been praying that the Lord would provide me with better fitting clothes and He did just that. This got me thinking......a dangerous thing, I know.

I sat thinking last night - what shall I do with these dresses? They are in great condition, they just don't fit her. Then I thought of those who read my blog ~~ many of which have the same standards and convictions regarding dress that I do. I want to be a blessing to others, just as the lady in my church was a blessing to me.

So, ladies, if you have a little girl who likes pretty dresses, let me know. Elisabeth is 9 years old. She is pretty skinny, but about average height. I will gladly mail these dresses to anyone who can use them. (And if my camera was working I'd show you pictures of some of them....sorry!!)

Leave me a comment with your email or email me.

tloinnd@hotmail.com

A Beautiful Evening.....

We got Jeff outdoor furniture for Father's Day ~ and it is wonderful. It is so nice to just sit outside and enjoy the peacefulness and the laughter of the children as they play.

(Disclaimer) That is NOT my deck in the picture. That IS the furniture though. I am having so many problems with our digital camera!!

We are now looking for another piece of furniture for the deck - something that will allow us to sit outside much longer throughout the year. We are hoping to find an outdoor fireplace.

This is similar to what we are looking for. This would be so nice to sit outside during the fall and even later in the year (depending on how bad the winter gets.) I am really hoping we will be able to find one of these by the end of summer.

Take Me Out To The Ball Game.....

This is where I think we will be spending our afternoon (in the bleachers, that is.) Nick has a game this afternoon and the weather is beautiful, so I know we will all have a great time.

I had originally thought he had a double header and we were going to have a picnic in the park across the street in between games ~ but I read the schedule wrong....AGAIN. But I figured the picnic still sounded like a great idea. So, after the game we'll head over to the park for a picnic.

I love summer time in North Dakota!! After being cooped up for so long in the winter months we take every opportunity we can to do outside activities when the weather permits. Lots of picnics, BBQ, bike rides, and evenings on the deck will be in order over the next few months.

I would love to hear from some you ~~ what are some of your favorite things that you like to do in the summertime??

I wasn't going to say anything but.....

I admit that I have a hard time with reading my Bible through in a year. It just seems to take too long. Then I read that Mrs R., from the blog Be Not Conformed, was going to read her Bible through in a month. I thought that was a little faster that I felt I could be, but then I started praying about doing something similar myself.

I started 3 days ago, but other than telling my husband I haven't said a word to anyone. I am reading my Bible through in 3 months - that is 13 to 15 chapters a day. I am loving how I do it to. I do several things, then take a break and read a chapter. I continue this throughout the whole day. So I do my indepth study first thing in the morning and then throughout the day I take in a chapter of God's Word at a time. I feel like I am just nibbling on the Word all day long - and I LOVE it!!!!!

Then, a few minutes ago I read that another friend of mine ~ Gina ~ is going to try reading it through in a month. I just think its neat that several of us are doing this together and that is why I wanted to share what I'm doing too. That way we can help encourage each other as we are reading. I know I love hearing how Mrs R is doing and I pray for her each day. I pray that others will do the same for Gina and for myself.

I have read through Genesis 34 so far and am truly enjoying being reminded of things I have read so many times before. It is like a refresher course and a way of bringing everything to the front of my mind again. A few times throughout the day today I had to stop and share something I had just read with Jeff because it just touched my heart in a special way.

I'm praying for you ladies - praying for your reading and for your commitment to accomplish something in a set amount of time.

You'd Think It Was Snowing!!!!!

We had volleyball practice this evening and the weather was kind of hot (85 degrees) but that was nothing compared to the cotton that was flying through the air!! At times the wind would gust and you'd think it was snowing!! There are places in my yard that are solid white with cotton!

It wouldn't be such a big deal, but I have horrible allergies and this stuff makes my eyes all but swell shut. Let's just say it made for a fun and interesting night of volleyball practice.

And now on to something a little more serious......

I wanted to take a minute to share something I got in an email today. It really touched my heart and says so much about how far away from God that the people in our world get more and more every day. Here is what I got.....

Face it – it’s a whole new immoral world. Think about it – an illegitimate baby gets it’s picture sold for several million dollars, and some of you who claim to be Christians probably bought People magazine to see the pictures. Shame on you. Movie star parents or not, the baby is illegitimate. Years ago, a mother of an illegitimate baby went away to have her baby where no one knew her. Immorality and illegitimacy are now the “in thing.” Today, they not only make no effort to hide it, they flaunt it. Lord, help us! Sinning is one thing, but to flaunt it is totally disgusting.

So far as I know, the word “sin” has never been removed from the Bible. In spite of that, it seems that some in Christendom are becoming numb to sin and just overlooking behavior that God defines as sin, especially immorality. What has happened to us? Why do some young people, even in conservative Christian churches, turn their backs on traditional moral values? Why?

It’s called “watering down” or easy salvation. We try to make the church so relevant to today’s youth that we soft pedal anything Biblical that would teach values and behavioral standards. We soften The Word so it won’t offend anyone. Shame on us.

John 8:34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.

What can each of us be doing so that we show and teach others the seriousness of sinning against a Holy God?

Loving This Blogging More All the Time

I've seen this on a couple of blogs that I read regularly and thought I would take some time this morning to answer these questions for myself. I hope no one minds me borrowing the questions!! I am really enjoying blogging and what I am enjoying even more is reading (and learning) from the blogs I have been reading lately.


How many do you read regularly?
I have 11 on my bloglines right now and seem to be adding more as I read others blog and check out their favorites.

How many are written by women? By men?
All of them are by women.

Are they all Christian? How about the same denomination?
From what I can tell they are all Christian, but I don't know about the same denomination or not. I know that the ones I read I have a lot in common with and that is what makes reading them so enjoyable. If their beliefs were too different from me or I found that I did not agree with them doctrinally I probably wouldn't read them.

What kinds of posts do you like the best?
Upbeat, cheerful posts. Posts that are encouraging in one way or another.

What kinds of posts are you most likely to comment on?
Oh, that is a hard on to answer. I love reading about daily life things, children, church, and funny things. Mainly things that just touch my heart and make me think and smile.

What makes you add a blog to your favorites list/bloglines? Or conversely, what drives you away from a blog?
Definitely what the author tends to write about. I steer clear of ones that are caught up in arguing or controversial types of topics and are drawn to ones that encourage me and a Christian, a wife, and a mom.

WhatÂ’s your favorite kind of post to write?
That's hard to answer. I still consider myself pretty new to all of this and I haven't really found one type that is my favorite.

What do you think is your biggest strength blogwise? Biggest weakness?
I love to be encouraging and hope that shows through my writing. My biggest weakness....Learningg to be consistent (but I'm getting so much better at that.)

What do you want to change, if anything, about the way you blog?
My topics seem to jump all over the place and I would like to have more of a common theme throughout, but that is hard for me to do. I do hope that through everything the love for my Saviour and my family always shows through.

How many times a day do you say the word blog?
Not that many at all.

How many bloggers have you met in real life – not counting the ones you knew before they started blogging?

I've met one - but I don't know if she was blogging then or not. I know I had off and on but was not consistent about it at that time.

Our Menu For The Week

Today I am going to do my weekly shopping, so that means I needed to get my menu done up. I love having a menu hanging on my refrigerator door. It takes the guess work out of dinner, helps my stay organized, and stops the question, "What are we having for dinner tonight?" from being asked by each of the kids at some point throughout the day.

Elisabeth is now helping me make the menu since she is helping me cook more and more now. I figured if she's going to be involved in the cooking part she should also be involved in the planning. So, this weeks menu is about 75% Elisabeth's and 25% Mom's.

Tuesday ~~~~~ CHICKEN ALFREDO, BROCCOLI, AND FRESH FRUIT
Wednesday ~~~ STEAK & RICE, SALAD, AND HOMEMADE ROLLS
Thursday ~~~~ CHICKEN FAJITAS, CHIPS, AND SALSA
Friday ~~~~~~ MEATLOAF, BAKED POTATOES, & CORN ON THE COB
Saturday ~~~~ HOMEMADE PIZZA
Sunday ~~~~~ RICE CASSEROLE (LUNCH) / ROAST, & VEGGIES (DINNER)
Monday ~~~~ SWEDISH MEATBALLS, RICE, SUGAR SNAP PEAS


What is everyone else having this week??

Going Through Trials.....

James 1:2-3 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

Every one of us has gone through ~ or is going through ~ difficult times. But don’t let yourself get discouraged during those times. God gives trials to us to make them stronger in the Lord…and He never makes us go through them alone. He does not want us to be baby Christians; but He wants us to grow in the Lord.

When we overcome one trial with the grace of God we will be able to minister to others who go through similar trials. If we are filled with anger and bitterness or insist on complaining and blaming God, things tend to turn from bad to worse. If you go through the trials with thankfulness and praise to God, then you are learning, growing, and gaining strength through it.

God is our Father and we are His children. So He will not allow anything to happen to us without His knowledge. During each trial, if we put our trust in the Lord then he will give us the strength to go through our time of testing.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Praise the Lord!

When you go through a trial you need to know that you are not alone, and that He is with you and His promises are with you. This will give you the strength to overcome the trial.

2 Corinthians 1:20 For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.

I can’t think of one single personal trial that did NOT make my faith grow deeper and bring me closer to God. Even though many of the trials itself was very intense, I held onto those promises of God that He would never leave me, nor forsake me.

Ladies, if you are going through a difficult time, take it to the Lord in prayer, but don't carry the burden alone. Let Psalm 55:22 give you hope.

Psalms 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.

Trials can be a purifying fire and a cleansing water. God doesn’t want us to get burnt or drowned in the problems ~~ He wants us to be refined and renewed.

1 Peter 1:6-7 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

My life verse.....

This afternoon I was browsing through verses that I like to read on a regular basis. While catching up on the blog by Mrs. R and Mrs B - http://be-not-conformed.blogspot.com/ - Mrs. R shared her life verse with everyone. I love seeing others life verse and learning why they chose those verse.

For many years I never could really choose just one verse. I love the Scriptures, but I never felt that the Lord had showed me just one that spoke more than the others. That all changed for me about 7 1/2 years ago.

Just days after our son Steven went home to be with Jesus, as I was reading my Bible, God gave me a verse that has meant the world to me ever since. That verse is Colossians 2:5.

Colossians 2:5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.

This is MY life verse!! So, what is yours ~~ and why????