Changing Streams

Another Week, Another Pound!!!

2012-01-27T23:15:00.006-05:00

WHEW!!! I went to bed last night with legs, back & feet already very sore. I tried to think of every reason in the book why it wasn't a good idea for me to go to boot camp this morning...everything sounded lame. So I ate a banana. I hate bananas. I only ate the banana because I get leg cramps if I don't. I drank a glass of water and slathered my feet with IcyHot.
This morning was week #3 weigh in. I was hoping for a minus since I felt I had done fabulous with my calories this week. I had a doctor's appointment as well this week. My Doc said that my PCOS slows down metabolism, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I heard a couple ladies say they had gained a pound, so I was content when the scales read that I lost a pound. It feels slower going than I had origianally wished, but I'm learning healthy, steady loss will help me keep the weight off. Making new habits for me and my family is not going to be established overnight. I'm not complaining with -5 pounds in 3 weeks though!!! I just have to keep my eye on the prize!!! (I WANT that Kindle Fire!)

Birthday Boy Turns 4!!!!

2012-01-27T09:10:00.002-05:00

I will post more later about my sweet birthday boy. I have lots to get accomplished first thing this morning. Happy Birthday, Clayton! We sure are proud of you, and love you lots!!!!
We ran to walmart to get some last minute party items, and ran into his cousin Cayden. (born the same day!) Aunt Marie took the boys to lunch at McDonald's, then back to the toys to buy a gift. It was cute to see the boys so excited about seeing each other & turning 4! :)

It Never Fails

2012-01-26T14:43:00.000-05:00

Give Them Grace-Haven Today

2012-01-24T14:33:00.004-05:00

Give Them Grace-Broadcast on Haven Today was quite possibly the best one on parenting/shepherding your child's heart that I've ever heard! It really stirred my hard and gave me food for thought! Here are a few words from the authors of "Give Them Grace. Dazzling Your Kids With The Love of Jesus." Click here to hear the broadcast. If you have children at home, it is so very worth your time to listen and glean from this talk!!!
All of us want to raise good kids. And we want to be good parents. But what exactly do we mean by “good?” And is “being good” really the point?

Mother-daughter team Elyse Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson contend that every way we try to make our kids “good” is simply an extension of Old Testament Law—a set of standards that is not only unable to save our children, but also powerless to change them.

No, rules are not the answer. What they need is GRACE.

We must tell our kids of the grace-giving God who freely adopts rebels and transforms them into loving sons and daughters. If this is not the message your children hear, if you are just telling them to “be good,” then the gospel needs to transform your parenting too.
Give Them Grace is a revolutionary perspective on parenting that shows us how to receive the gospel afresh and give grace in abundance, helping our children know the dazzling love of Jesus and respond with heartfelt obedience.

Elyse M. Fitzpatrick holds a masters in biblical counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary. She is a member of the National Association of Nouthetic Counselors, is a retreat and conference speaker, and is the head of Women Helping Women Ministries. Fitzpatrick has authored nearly a dozen books, including Because He Loves Me.

JESSICA THOMPSON is a member of an Acts 29 church and has been homeschooling for the past two years. She is married and has three children.

Knowing vs Doing

2012-01-23T10:18:00.003-05:00

Faulty Change Plan # 6

James MacDonald, Senior Pastor of Harvest Bible Chapel

²¹So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand.
²²For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, ²³but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. - Romans 7:21-23

The last of the faulty strategies for change that influences believers is what we call the intellectual change plan. Paul talks about this in Romans 7:21 (above). He basically admits, “In my mind, I want to do right, but I don’t do it. I can think about the changes that are necessary, but I can’t think my way to them.” That’s Paul's review of the failure of intellectual change. Many people feel this way. “Why did I do that?” “Why did I say that?” “Why am I like that?” And then they always say this, “I know better, but I still do it. I know it’s going to hurt. I know I’m going to get upset. I know I’m going to be frustrated, but I still do it even though I know better.”

That’s why we focus upon accountability in our Small Groups, because we want to keep the emphasis on change under God’s plan, not ours. Small Groups are not legalistic huddles or monastic experiments in the modern world—nor are they intellectual work-outs so we can display our “spiritual abs.” We participate in attentive Bible study, knowing that we do need to learn the Word. And we need to grow in our understanding. But information is not the ultimate answer. No one’s going to explain something to you and then it’s going to turn the key. Information doesn’t unlock change. It’s not the truth as an idea that sets you free; it’s Truth as the person of Jesus Christ, living in you, that sets you free!

Paul said, I have this law in my mind, but there’s a problem: knowing is not enough. And he agonizes over the problem in Romans 7:24, “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” If we follow along Paul’s argument, we’re right with him at this point. The means for change have been weighed and found wanting. We realize that even at our most insightful and sincere, our efforts to change will fall short. We will cry with Paul, “Who will deliver us from this deadly mess?”

God made sure Paul didn’t leave us hanging with the question. There is a way out. There is The Way out; Jesus Christ! We can feel Paul’s relief and hope as he declares, “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:25a). The way of real change always takes us through Jesus Christ.

Journal:

How have I discovered the limitations that come when I try to think my way into spiritual maturity and change?
Is loving God with my mind (Mark 12:30) something I can do un-aided, or must I rely on the Holy Spirit even for this basic step of obedience? Why?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You have given me an amazing mind and allowed me to use it as part of my wholehearted response to You in love. Forgive me when I forget that my mind is limited by power, distractions, and sin to the point that any meaningful change, even in the way I think, must come from You. Thank You for showing Yourself ready and willing to heal and guide the way I think! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
~~~~~~~~~~
Kara here again. Not sure why this post wouldn't let me write BEFORE the devotional from James MacDonald....what I wanted to write was this: think of your struggle/addiction/idol, (whatever you choose to call it) as you read this article. For me, it's dealing with food and all of its temptations. (eating it, thinking about it, serving it etc) I know what I SHOULD eat, and don't always follow through. This devotional was like fresh wind to my tired sails today.
Power of Food Quiz (Dr. Oz)

Winter Fun

2012-01-22T16:19:00.000-05:00

Clayton BEGGED this weary mamma to go play in the snow yesterday. (after my work-out)...so I couldn't resist. He loved making snow angels.
Sadie just liked walking around NOT touching anything :)
Then we came in to hot chocolate....MMMmmmmm!!!
Andy couldn't be home this weekend, so I thought I'd add this picture of him from last snowfall.

*Let it Snow*Let it Snow*Let it Snow*

FBC 2 Weeks Down!!

2012-01-21T10:30:00.001-05:00

I have now completed 2 full weeks of TrotFitness Boot Camp! My weigh-in this morning showed only one pound lost this week, but it IS a loss, and I have to remember that. 4lbs in two weeks so far...
---------------
Remember that quitter voice I posted about yesterday!? Well, with 6 inches of snow, and terrible looking roads, and even the instructor emailing us that class was on for those who could make it in...my quitter voice was in HIGH GEAR, let me tell ya! Guess what? I went anyway, thinking the whole time, "this is nuts!" :)
It has been very difficult for me each day, and one particular day this week, I felt the "give-up" attitude start to creep in.

The most humbling experience this week was this: (I can't remember if I mentioned this before or not, but if we say the words, "I can't" to the trainer, we have to do 10 push-ups while the whole class waits for us to finish...I have witnessed this and am very careful not to say those forbidden words!) At one moment, I felt like I just couldn't go on. There was sweat in my eyes, I felt nauseous, and when pushed to continue, I blurted, "I don't want to. It hurts!" The trainer said, "that was almost an 'I can't', Kara!" I knew he was right, but was hoping since it wasn't technically the actual words, it could slide... Another camper overheard the conversation and said, "we will do your push-ups for you, Kara." To my complete shame, the whole class pumped out the 10 extra push-ups in my place. So many life-lessons come to mind from that experience, but I'll let you to think of them yourself. Needless to say, I felt humbled and loved at the same time. With Jesus' strength, the trainers help, & my husband's unwavering encouragement, I was able to push through the pain and continue to move in waves this ole couch potato hasn't in a LONG time! I honestly have never ached or sweated as much as I have the last 2 weeks. When I reach my goals, I know it will be worth every obstacle and struggle.
My knee is getting stronger each day, so I'm really thankful for that.

In the video clip above, there's a section where the ladies make a tunnel by building planks for someone to army crawl under...(1:35 & 1:55). I won a $65 Foot Locker Gift Card for staying qualified & being the name drawn in the winning team of that exercise!!!! Now I can shop for some new equipment! Thank you, TrotFitness!!!

Lysa's Quitter Voice

2012-01-20T13:52:00.001-05:00

Guest blog excerpt taken from Lysa TerKeurst- author of Made to Crave

Thanking my quitter voice

This morning at my boot camp class, something occurred to me in the middle of an exercise I don’t like. Actually, I loathe this exercise with every fiber in my body.

I don’t know what the official title of this exercise is but it involves two really heavy ropes tied to the wall. So we’ll call it the rope fling thing.

You take the ropes, one in each hand, and fling them high above your head while doing squats over and over. It causes the heavy ropes to look like waves in the ocean. But they aren’t waves in the ocean and this is no tranquil setting.

It’s torture. Just plain and simple.

And while part of my brain says, “This is so good for you — give it all you’ve got,” a much bigger part of my brain is screaming something else entirely: “STOP!”

When I don’t stop, the quitter part of my brain starts this dialogue, “Okay, if you’re not going to quit, just give a lot less effort. You can still appear to be working really hard while decreasing your effort significantly. Don’t raise your hands so high. Don’t squat so low. Just do little flings that barely make the rope move. I mean seriously, you are tired. Really tired. You’ve given all you’ve got. And at any point if you want to stop, there’s no law that says you can’t. Who cares?”

Have you ever heard the quitter dialogue?

That little voice helps you make excuses in any area which is hard to persevere.

But here’s the thing. The quitter voice doesn’t have to keep you from a win. The quitter voice can push you toward a win.

How?

Remember, you only hear the quitter voice when you’re really close to a breakthrough.

I don’t hear the quitter voice when I’m laying on the couch.

I don’t hear the quitter voice when I’m sitting at my desk.

I don’t hear the quitter voice when I’m talking on the phone.

I hear it when I’m about to make serious progress in a workout… but my body is tired.

I hear it when I’m about to eat something healthy… but my kids make chocolate chip cookies.

I hear it when I pick up my bottle of water… but there’s a soda in the fridge.

If you’ve ever tried to persevere in anything, I bet you’ve heard the quitter voice too. So when you hear it, turn it on its head by thanking it!

Thank that quitter voice for reminding you how close you are to making serious progress.

Then push through until you breakthrough!

Fling that rope.

Eat that grilled chicken salad.

Drink that water.

And squash that stinkin’ quitter into the ground.

Doodoo Duty

2012-01-19T10:34:00.003-05:00

I forgot how frustrating it is to house train a dog... with Daisy, it's definitely hit and miss. Clayton LOVES being the one to take Daisy out though, so it's can be a fun job to bundle everyone up and go outside for doodoo duty. Daisy is such a lazy dog, making us wonder all the more if she is just little due to being malnourished. She loves cuddling and just lounging on the chair like this.

Prayer Revisited

2012-01-18T16:12:00.003-05:00

I was reading Ann Voskamp's blog today. I wanted to share some of her thoughts (as well as add a few of my own thoughts) about prayer.

Martin Luther prayed about 2 hours on average per day and said, "The fewer the words, the better the prayer."

Short Prayers of the Bible

* The publican’s prayer: “God be merciful to me a sinner!” (Luke 18:13)

* The Syrophoenician woman’s (a personal favorite): “Lord help me!” (Mt. 15:25)

* The prayer of the thief on the cross: “Lord, remember me when Thou comest into Thy Kingdom!”

* Peter’s prayer: “Lord, save me!” (Mt. 14:30)

* Mary’s prayer: “I am the Lord’s servant… May it be to me as you have said.” (Lk. 1:38)

* Jesus’ prayer: “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” (Lk. 22:42)

*Stephen’s prayer: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” (Acts 7:60)

* David’s prayer: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight” (Ps. 19:14)

*Praise prayers like Eve’s, who prayed after she delivered Cain: “With the help of the LORD, I have brought forth a man.”
From this previous post:
~Specific time in prayer is as vital to the Christian as breath to any living being! We of course, can pray anytime, anywhere, but when we get into a habit of "praying on the go", we convey the message that "I just don't have the time to get alone with you, God." Someone recently challenged me to even posture myself in prayer (kneeling). This again is something that I already knew, but did not always do. I can tell you it makes a big difference to posture yourself in prayer and leave the distractions behind. Ephesians 3:14 says that "I bow my knees before The Father." Philippians 2:10 says that "at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow," so why not do it here on earth in our daily routine? I confess, there are days when prayer-time at the kitchen sink, in the car & in the shower is what happens, but I do cherish those days when daily distractions are stripped away, and it's just me and God, no dirty dishes or otherwise.
Something that we often pray is, "God, we want to know you more..." and that is good, because we do, but is very humbling and vulnerable to pray, "God, I want you to know me." Allowing God to shine His search light into the hidden crevices of our minds and hearts is as freeing as it is humbling. None of us, if honest with ourselves, would want the tape of our every thought played over a screen for all the world to see, but that will happen one day, and it would be much better to have an audience of One see it all now than everyone on judgment day. Pray daily for God to show you what you cannot see. You don't know what you don't know.
A tip to keep ourselves in healthy prayer is this acronym I came across: ACTS(S)
A-Adoration- Start prayer time with adoring God for WHO He is, not what He has done. In this time, we can pray to each person of the Trinity and adore Him for His holiness, love, justice, kindness, faithfulness, mercy & grace...
C-Confession- Be honest before God...He knows it all anyway. "God, I confess, I have not been consistent with my children, I have not shared your love with anyone this week...." etc.
T- Thanksgiving- Thanking God for all that He has done and will do. (this is different than adoration!)
S- Supplication- needs, requests
S-Silence- allowing the Holy Spirit to speak, guide, reveal etc.
I have found that this helps me to look past myself and my own little world to what is truly important in prayer.

Kid Pix From 2Day

2012-01-17T20:47:00.003-05:00

Clayton & Sadie on a sleepover at Pappy & Grammy's house last night (above)
Found Sadie worshiping in the kitchen this evening. :) (below)
I love my kids so much!!!

Meet Miss Daisy

2012-01-16T16:34:00.005-05:00

I thought Andy was going for just a haircut...turns out, he also came home with a terrified beagle who was in desperate need of a loving family! Meet little Miss Daisy!!! :) She is very timid & nervous, but so very sweet. She loves the kids and loves to snuggle in tight when we hold her. It's hard to tell how old she is. She looks little, like a puppy, but she doesn't chew things and she is not hyper at all. She is an adorable addition to our family.
A boy's best friend? :)

Small Successes

2012-01-14T09:44:00.004-05:00

This is what came off my body this week!!! I cannot tell you how surprised but excited it made me, (and those watching the scales) as I weighed in for my first week of fitness boot camp, to see -3 lbs.!!!
I have developed a knee issue. My knee has a fluid pocket on it, and has popped out of joint a few times. I am now armed with a knee brace, and working through the discomfort.
The workout this morning kicked my butt and I sweated more than I knew was possible, but I survived. My hope is starting to build and I am starting believe I can actually do this and turn my health issues around!
"If you are fighting for something that matters, the obstacles won't. Winners play hurt." ~Chris Brady

Religion VS Jesus

2012-01-14T02:19:00.001-05:00

Courageous Fathers

2012-01-12T14:31:00.003-05:00

I cannot express how excited I am about this new generation of children, seeing men of God stand up to storm the gates of hell for their families. Men who cry unashamed at the deep love and commitment they have for Christ, their wives and children. Men who choose to do the hard work of being accountable to other godly men, not hold back on anything because they may "look bad" to their peers. Men who seek God in prayer, the Word and daily worship faithfully because they know they will learn God's ways and be held to a high standard of judgment on how they led their homes. Men who humbly ask for forgiveness at home when they know they've done wrong. Men who go public with the gospel on the job and live out the gospel at home. Men who put their desires aside and show Christ by serving with love- their wives, their children, their church and their communities....This is the generation of men who are warriors on the front-lines, standing unafraid. It is not enough to wait for satan's attacks, but to be proactive, purposeful and taking up the fight, choosing to engage. If you have not already heard of "Courageous", watch the clip below and get your own copy. (in stores the 17th).

We were made to be courageous
We were made to lead the way
We could be the generation
That finally breaks the chains
We were made to be courageous
We were made to be courageous

We were warriors on the front lines
Standing, unafraid
But now we're watchers on the sidelines
While our families slip away

Where are you, men of courage?
You were made for so much more
Let the pounding of our hearts cry
We will serve the Lord

We were made to be courageous
And we're taking back the fight
We were made to be courageous
And it starts with us tonight

The only way we'll ever stand
Is on our knees with lifted hands
Make us courageous
Lord, make us courageous

This is our resolution
Our answer to the call
We will love our wives and children
We refuse to let them fall

We will reignite the passion
That we buried deep inside
May the watchers become warriors
Let the men of God arise

We were made to be courageous
And we're taking back the fight
We were made to be courageous
And it starts with us tonight

The only way we'll ever stand
Is on our knees with lifted hands
Make us courageous
Lord, make us courageous

Seek justice
Love mercy
Walk humbly with your God

In the war of the mind
I will make my stand
In the battle of the heart
And the battle of the hand

In the war of the mind
I will make my stand
In the battle of the heart
And the battle of the hand

We were made to be courageous
And we're taking back the fight
We were made to be courageous
And it starts with us tonight

The only way we'll ever stand
Is on our knees with lifted hands
Make us courageous
Lord, make us courageous

We were made to be courageous
Lord, make us courageous

The FBC Class

2012-01-10T07:31:00.000-05:00

This is the class after the workout...we are gross and sweaty, but working towards transformation.
Nisan Trotter is the trainer (2nd from left). His wife Yorelis is co-trainer (taking the pic).
Some have asked who I know in this organization. Answer: Not a soul! I saw an ad for this challenge and signed up. I am starting to know some names after a couple days, but never met any of them previous to Saturday. Any other questions??? I love all the emails/texts I'm getting! Thanks for your encouragement & support!!!!

FBC Day 2

2012-01-09T07:20:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I will not be journaling every single day of fitness boot camp (FBC). (or at least I don't intend to). I did get a ton of questions yesterday about how it went though, so I did want to talk about how today was versus day 1. I have to admit I felt so sore and about half sick all day yesterday just recovering and wondering what today would have in store...
Since Saturday was so rough on me, the co-trainer asked that I come in a half hour early this morning before the other ladies arrived (5:15 am). I was nervous about this, thinking that if they wore me out in that first half hour, how on earth would I survive the regular hour of training!?
Well...tears were shed, I spent time gagging over the toilet, but I came back out and did my best. I can't say it was pretty, or that it felt good, or that I enjoyed it for one second, but I am "pressing toward the mark. Forgetting what is behind (the old me), and reaching for the goal (transformation & health)".
There were times that grunts & groans came out of my mouth that I was not expecting or intending. I had to lay all dignity aside and just do the task at hand. I can't image how I will survive tomorrow morning, but I don't have to worry about that right now.
Right now, looking in the mirror, I see a weary, overweight young woman. This is the last time I will ever see this image. I am changing, transforming, becoming the temple God intended me to be. Now at 7:15 am, the hardest part of my day is done. I can rest, recover and plug into God's promises of strength, joy & courage throughout the day in preparation for what is to come.

Me (before)

My Baby Girl & Her Mamma

2012-01-08T21:04:00.002-05:00

Sadie and I matched today, so we took a quick picture before changing after church. I love my sweet Sadie-girl!!!

Boot Camp Day 1

2012-01-07T22:18:00.005-05:00

So after the first morning of the Transformation Workout, I did NOT feel like blogging about the experience. After talking to my husband, we both felt it necessary to "journal" this journey, and blogging is easier for me than writing it all down. If you are not prepared for some jaw-dropping numbers, facts & painful truth, please do not continue reading. This is not for you to be "in the know." It is another step at transparent accountability in my life.
My emotions are a bit raw at what I learned about myself today....
~The chart above is a typical BMI (Body Mass Index) chart. A healthy woman should fall in around 19-25. My BMI is 49.5
~Body fat percentage is another number to know. For women between age 20 and 40, 19% to 26% body fat is generally good to excellent. My body fat percentage is 48%.
At these terribly high numbers, along with my weight (not quite ready to reveal) I am high risk for diabetes, heart attack among other dangers. If these numbers do not fall, I will not live a long, healthy life.
I have been living in complete denial of my condition. Rather than judge myself by the healthy standards doctors and others have studied, I have thought to myself, "Well I am not as big as _______ or as unhealthy as _____________ or as out-of-shape as _______________. This is always leads to the path to denial, bad habits and lack of motivation. I thought because I can crank out 40 minutes on our elliptical that I could do half decent at learning the new exercises today.
At this morning's fitness assessments, I could not do one ab crunch. I could barely hold a plank for one minute. It was certainly humbling & eye-opening for me to see what I have let myself become!!! The word "CAN'T" has dominated my thinking, and it's high time to CHOOSE to turn can't into try, then try into DO! Although my body and emotions are crying out, I must continue. I cannot afford to quit because it's hard. Philippians 4:13

Boot Camp (Ready or Not!)

2012-01-07T08:00:00.002-05:00

You read those words, "boot camp", and a bit of fear strikes your heart. Well, it's official. By the time you are even reading this, I will be drenched in sweat, maybe even have tears in my eyes, wondering "Why, oh why did I sign up for this!?" Starting today, I have entered a 12-week (gulp) fitness boot camp for women in Lewisburg called TrotFitness Transformation Challenge! This is a HUGE step for me. There is no turning back now.
I have always battled extra weight, and at times lost some, only to have gained more later. I know we all tend to set weight-loss goals at the beginning of each new year, but by Valentine's Day, we seem to have forgotten or simply grown comfortable with the way we are and do little to nothing about it. I know I have got to get control of this issue.
If not now, then when!? If not this, then what!?
Over the course of the next 12+ weeks, I will be sharing my fitness goals, victories and losses with you on this blog. I will do my best to be transparent and vulnerable so maybe just a bit of my fitness journey will help you on yours.

Happy New ME this Year! In 2012, I CHOOSE!

Is Your Bed Made?

2012-01-05T08:43:00.000-05:00

I introduced a new word to the kids last week: "CHORE." And guess what? They LOVE it! :) "CHORE" doesn't have a negative meaning yet, since they are only 2 & 3 years old. It's a GAME, a RACE, an ACCOMPLISHMENT!!! These all words that have been used along with their new vocab word, "CHORE. "
Clayton loves doing his new chore each morning, and he even inspects Sadie's bed & even Mommy & Daddy's bed to see if we remembered to do our chore. Clayton loves things in order and done the "right way". Lucky us to get a type-A child when Andy & I are "fly by the seat of your pants." It's fun though. Clayton keeps us motivated to organize and keep things in order. He loves when the house is clean and even compliments me when the house looks especially nice. One morning he came downstairs, not knowing I had been cleaning after he went to bed the night before. Everything looked clean, and Clayton sounded amazed as he said, "It looks so wonderful in here!" Awwww, made my day.
I am hoping to add new chores for the kids as needed. They love to help with the dishes in the kitchen and hold the dust pan when I sweep but it's not a set thing they have to do. I know the best time to teach is now, while they are little and enjoy the work. They don't realize they could get a reward for chores yet...way cool! It's great to have passed the making of beds on to them now! Here is Clayton faithfully making his bed....Here's Clayton's bed with his pillow pets.
Sadie's is easy since she got a Princess sleeping bag for Christmas! She just has to pull it straight and put her pillow & dolls/animals in place.
Yes, Andy & I are in sad need of a new bedspread/comforter thingy. Our room is brown & orange with a bit of Safari highlights...any donations will be considered. :)

Anticdotal Kid Journals

2012-01-04T12:01:00.003-05:00

Every time the kids say or do something especially funny or cute, I immediately think "now, I need to go write that down!" And although I do blog about things at times, I have felt the need to actually journal it for the kids to look back on later. I do keep their baby books updated, but those are limited to certain things like medical, birthdays, vacations etc. I also like to scrapbook with pictures (when I get around to it), but the journals are just for pen and paper writings as I see it from my "Mommy-perspective."
I bought these cute little mini journals from Staples. It was something I knew wanted to start right away at the beginning of this year, and already I know I love it, and realize it could be meaningful to the kids someday. I can envision the teenage years when they feel like I never loved them (remember those years!?), and I can whip out these journals and let them read not only the cute and funny things they did in their childhood, but thoughts I have for them, letters written specifically to them and scriptures I pray over them & claim for them.

4Ever Frenz

2012-01-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

Everyone can probably say they have a forever friend, ....Natasha (Walter) Orvis, Mary (Hollenbach) DeBolt & myself have been friends since we were born, growing up in the same church and school. We have said many times how nice it is that we can easily "pick up where we left off" any time we talk or get together. Conversation always goes to birth stories, dreams, goals & parenting struggles/victories- all without pressure or judgment. Lots of encouragement is handed out freely and it's always a reminder of why we are friends in the first place. :)
Although we text and email, we hardly get to see each other, and never all 3 at the same time, so getting together (without kids!) at the local McD's and chatting over mochas was a real treat!!!! It may be a long time until we get to do that again, so we made sure to get a picture to help remember the special evening!!!!

My Year-End Thoughts

2011-12-31T00:18:00.000-05:00

This year has been an incredible year of change, growth & new determination to walk the path God has set before me. Let me share a few things that come to mind:
I have learned to do all, not to my credit, but for the glory of my Lord.
To joyfully submit to my husband and recognize him as my God-given leader.
I am learning to be patient with my children and see them as the treasures God sees them as. They are so teachable at their ages, so now is the time to be teaching them scripture and lessons from God's Word.
I have a renewed love for the God of the Word and how He uses the words on the page to cut to my heart and show me my sin.
I am learning to draw the circle around myself & see where I can change and grow rather than point the finger to others around me. I am learning to take responsibility for my own thoughts & actions, and "take every thought captive" as the enemy tries to get a foothold into my life. (2 Corinithians 10:4-6)
I am learning to appreciate the separate parts of the Trinity, and thank each of them for their work in my life.
I have realized that "looking for my purpose" should not be looking for a monumental thing, but to daily walk in the purpose I have already been given. My purpose is to glorify God in all that I do.
I am learning to see others as God sees them. I am learning to live in reverence to God rather than fear of man. I am being accountable to others in areas of my life that I struggle. It is not easy to "confess your faults to another". It is humbling and vulnerable, but it is healing and freeing.(James 5:16)
I don't claim to have arrived. I am not perfect.(Philippians 3:12) I am just a daughter of my Father & He delights in me (Psalm 18:19). He has called me by name(Isaiah 43:1). He has plans for my future(Jeremiah 29:11). He will be faithful to finish the work He has started in me(Phillipians 1:6).
I owe everything to Him, not that I can earn His favor, but that I walk out the plan He has set for me. He is worthy to be worshiped with our every-day lives.

Happy Birthday, Jesus!!!

2011-12-25T11:30:00.000-05:00

Spent an amazing Christmas morning in worship to Jesus. I feel overwhelmed this Christmas, that God became flesh knowing He was headed for the cross, all so that we could receive the gift of forgiveness that we do not deserve. One songwriter wrote, "How can I keep from singing Your praise!?" We are entitled to nothing. We deserve hell. But God, (2 of the most beautiful words in the Bible) chooses to see a spotless Lamb when He looks at a born-again child. All glory & worship to the King of Kings, my Lord & Savior.

It's all about YOU, Jesus!

Cards

2011-12-23T22:55:00.002-05:00

For those of you who may have wondered why you didn't get a card from us...I DID order adorable cards (with the kids' picture- to the right), but when I ordered them online, the store said they have no record of them. :( My invoice still says they processed the order, so IF I ever receive the photo cards, I will get them out for New Year's! :) Otherwise, consider the picture and well wishes from our family to yours.

Plank's Live Nativity

2011-12-21T09:21:00.003-05:00

And she brought forth her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn...
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them...
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
All glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!

Stoltzfus Adoption Update: In Ethiopia

2011-12-20T11:59:00.003-05:00

Sharon Stoltzfus
we made it to meet ruth and manny today. they were expecting us even though they had not received our pictures... they were very well prepared and greatly anticipating us coming and having a family of thier own. they both hugged and kissed all of us and manassie had tears running down his sweet little cheeks. They are both very inteligent. Ruth loves school and seems very independant and really wanting to learn and be a big girl. She loves her sister already. We colored with them and painted Ruth's finger nails. we got balloons out for all of the kids and then we saw Manassie come alive. He is a live wire. We gave them both piggy back rides and chased balloons with them. Ruthie was most into learning how to blow and tie the balloons. we had a little trouble getting her to get on dad's shoulders but when we did she was very happy. They got to stay home from school today. when thier friends came home from school they were so proud to show thier family off. Ruth kept pulling on Riley and both of them were hugging and kissing all of us and telling us they loved us. Manassie kept yelling something we didn't understand so we asked our translater what he was saying and he told us he was saying "My daddy has come! My daddy has come! The orphanage prepared a coffee ceremony for us and made popcorn for everyone over an open fire. Ruth proudly served popcorn to us and her friends. It was amazing and heart wrenching. All of the children are soooo precious and loving but of course we would pick ours! tomorrow am we are going to take a boat on lake awassa to see hippos. There are monkeys running around the lake. then we will go to see our kids at thier school. then we will go back to addis. They are being moved on Thursday. so we will get to see them every day and hug and kiss them before we come home. Tyler and Riley were just incredible, very mature and doted on thier brother and sister and all of the kids. Riley painted all of the girls finger nails. Tyler ran and gave lots of piggy back rides. Manny loved to be chased and teased by his dad and brother but we were all amazed at how he would run and yell mama for comfort and safety. the day far exceeded our expectations and I think we have a much better idea of how to prepare for them and even know what to expect. We think Manny will require lots of loving guideance. Ruth was more reserved and quiet and very loving and sweet. We can't imagine what they are thinking at thier age or what all of the changes will be like for them. They are leaving all that has been familiar to them for a one year and four months to live in another orphanage for a few months until we get thier visas and come back for them. thankyou all so much for the love and prayers and encouraging words. we feel your prayers and are so blessed!
---------------------------------------------------
(another day/post)------------------------------
Sharon Stoltzfus
a hard but good day. steve was in bed all day. tyler and riley and I went to visit our kids. manassie was napping for a few hrs when we got there so we colored, played play dough and painted nails with ruth and many other children. I brought all of theese activities and I am so glad I did. even the older kids crowded around and wanted to be in on the action. The guy who runs our guest house, abrah...am came to meet our kids today. I had him ask ruth how she is doing and she started crying. she said the change is hard. it was heart wrenching for me but I was so happy to see the emotion and honesty. I just want so badly to be the one who can talk to her. as we played she really warmed up to me and she told a boy who speaks english that when she is with me she is good. That means the world to me. riley got sick while we were there so she was sitting at the table with her head on the table. ruthie kept kissing her and riley would return the kisses. It was awesome! manassie woke up from his nap and came in as a delightful storm. you will know what I mean when you meet him. his eyes dance and he is full of life and energy. He immediatly wanted to know where his papa was. we had our 11 year old friend explain that his papa is sick today but will come tomorrow. so every once in a while he would say" papa is coming tomorrow!" this eve we had a cookout at our guest house. he invited a family from the states who have 4 ethiopian adopted children. It was a fun evening. I am the only healthy one left- tyler riley and steve all have a head cold, cough and fevers. tomorrow is court day. so, we have to function!! thankyou for your prayers. . I will update tomorrow to let you know how court went. I am confident that they will be officially ours tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!

Christmas Projects

2011-12-19T15:37:00.002-05:00

As a stay-at-home-mom of 2 toddlers, I can get overwhelmed with everything I'd "like" to have done, but projects that take my mind off the mundane are nice. I'm working on some crafted gifts for Christmas this year. I would've loved to have all the gifts homemade, but I didn't start in time this year, so maybe that can be a goal next year!!! :) Not everyone enjoys a handmade gift, I suppose. Email me with some ideas that you make/have made for gifts!!!

Do You Have Room?

2011-12-18T08:49:00.000-05:00

GORGEOUS new Christmas song:

Flashback

2011-12-17T22:39:00.000-05:00

Andy & sat in wonder at how just one year has made a huge difference in our babies!!! We are excited about our Christmas project for this year to make Jesus' birth come alive to our toddlers. This video was last year's attempt at doing that. Awwwww! :)

The Kids' 2011 Ornaments

2011-12-17T07:22:00.000-05:00

This year, instead of buying the shiny metal engraved ornaments for the kids, we decided to let them pick out their own ornament that they could each hang on the tree. Shocking: they picked out Dora & Thomas....ok, not shocking, but cute to see their excitement at putting them on the tree. In their perspective, the engraved ones are just boring, so we simply wrote their names and the year on the bottom with a sharpie. In the future, they will look back and have their favorite characters to laugh about, rather than a stack of "classy" annual ornaments. Andy & I were talking about how back in the day, we would have collected: for me- Rainbow Bright, Strawberry Shortcake, Holly Hobby, and Andy: The Lone Ranger, GI Joe, or Forrestmen Lego characters. :)
I KNOW it's NOT about the tree, the ornaments etc., but since we DO HAVE a tree & ornaments, I thought it would be fun to change it up a bit, and create some memories for the kids.

My Little Elf

2011-12-16T13:43:00.002-05:00

Pardon the no shirt, (he had just gotten up), but this is my little elf for Christmas wrapping & decorating this year. He especially loves putting all the bows on the presents for me. Some have LOTS more than others! ;)

The Sweetest Bakers

2011-12-14T13:32:00.002-05:00

My sweet little cookie-decorators! :) They had so much fun putting the sprinkles on the cookie dough. They of course went a bit overboard, but I didn't mind. When Clayton finished, he said, "I had fun making cookies together, Mommy!" Aww...warmed the crockeries of my heart! :)
Christmas cookies with LOTS of red & green sprinkles, compliments of Chef Clayton & Chef Sadie!

Just 2 Busy Book

2011-12-13T11:52:00.000-05:00

GUEST POST for a Great Read (would make an awesome Christmas gift!!!)

Just too Busy

Taking Your Family on a Radical Sabbatical

Release Date June 2011 - Beacon Hill Publishers

Excerpt Below

We aren't much different you and I. Not long ago, I too was searching the bookshelves for anything, something, some bit of help for my chaotic, topsy-turvy life. Everywhere I turned I couldn't swing my purse without hitting books for Busy Moms, “The Busy Moms Recipe Book – You too Can Make a Fourteen Course Meal in Eight Minutes!” “The Busy Moms 4.2 second Devotional Book” “How to Change a Flat Tire – for Busy Moms” Sure, there were lots of books that spoke specifically to me, a busy mom. Unfortunately, they all seemed to accept the fact that I was busy, too busy.

I needed help. I needed answers. I needed to hear from someone who had walked a mile in my tired, worn out mommy-shoes. Could there be survivors in a head on collision with busyness? Had anyone been declared victor after jousting the insanity of over-activity?

Why was my life moving faster and becoming more difficult? Slow and easy, that's what I wanted. I looked everywhere for it. I found TV shows that explained simple ways to decorate my home for Christmas, simple ways to make a delicious pot roast, simple solutions for annoying pet odors, but where were the simple solutions for slowing down? How could I get back some of this stolen time? I even bought a magazine with the word simple on the title, thinking surely they would have the answer. Only to discover that anything I did, no matter how simple, really wasn't. Slowing down was easier said than done it seemed.

The captivity of our family's activities were the handcuffs that put us in bondage to busyness. I felt like a prisoner. Our busyness was slowly eroding the joy from our lives. I was being held against my will, while time was dragging our family along for one wild ride.

When I was a fresh-faced newlywed, I dreamed of the day my husband and I would have children. I imagined the life we would make together. As my family-fairy-tale came into focus, I would be cuddling on the couch to read a book with one of my toddlers. The next chapter in my fairy tale included relaxed family dinners around our kitchen table, smiles and snuggles and joy-filled conversations as my babies grew up before my eyes. The scene would then change, my clumsy toddler now a sure-footed teenager sitting on my kitchen counter, keeping me company as I made dinner, seeking a bit of wisdom and guidance. But sadly, the fairy-tale wasn't our reality.

Each day I was given another twenty-four hours and each night I couldn't have told you where all the time had gone. Stories read with my toddlers were in a frustrated rush. Dinner together was almost non-existent, and my teenager wasn't sitting on my kitchen counter. She was seeking advice from the front seat of my car. Her guidance counselor was a middle-aged me. Any wisdom given was in between cynical comments to traffic jams and slow drivers, in between a pick-up or a drop-off.

As a family, we were doing more than we ever had before, accomplishing much less - and growing farther apart in the process. It was depressing. What in the world was happening? A voice in my head reminded me, “This isn't the fairy tale life I'd imagined so many years ago.”

Busyness had become our new normal and I couldn't take it anymore. It was time to make a change. The answer I received surprised me. I had no idea the solution I'd been searching for would be considered radical.

Just too Busy

Taking Your Family on a Radical Sabbatical

by, Joanne Kraft

Daddy's Girl

2011-12-12T09:12:00.002-05:00

Andy loves to play rough with the kids, and they love it right back! MOMMY, however gets nervous when they are constantly wrestling, flipping or boxing...glad I could catch a picture though. You can tell Sadie loves her Daddy and loves to play "Daddy-style" rather than always tea parties & baby dolls with Mommy. :)

Real Men Do Dishes!

2011-12-09T08:43:00.000-05:00

As a stay-at-home-mother/wife, WITHOUT a dishwasher, washing dishes can be a never-ending chore. I really do not mind doing dishes, or at least that's what I've convinced myself. :) But it seems I have my own Mr. Clean when I am away for a few hours getting groceries etc!!! I don't like stereotypes of men, so I'm not going to be the one who says men "can't clean, take care of the kids, etc". Andy is awesome proof that real men can DO those things cheerfully. I recently came home to all the dishes done, a candle burning- making the house smell yummy, and the kids fed & cleaned up. WooHoo!!! (Thank You, Honi!)

Part of being "one flesh" in a marriage covenant is serving each other and putting the others' preferences above your own; denying what you WANT to do, for what you know will please your spouse. For more practical ways to do this, (for solid couples as well as struggling ones), try The Love Dare book! It is part of the Fireproof study, and will make a radical difference in your marriage. Can I get another WooHoo!!!??? :D

Decorating for Christmas

2011-12-07T16:52:00.000-05:00

With the viewing last night and funeral this morning of my grandfather, I knew we had to fit in Christmas decorations sometime this week since the kids do not understand everything going on. Andy and I decided to keep the decorating low-key this year and just focus on the birth & celebration of Jesus with the kids.
We got out the "little people" nativity for them, and they have been so cute with it. (You can see below that even Hello Kitty came to worship baby Jesus!) :) We hope find some opportunities to help other people this year and remember what Christmas should be about.

Bestest Buddies

2011-12-06T14:49:00.002-05:00

This is Clayton and his best buddy, Blake. I can imagine they will get into all kinds of mischief as they grow up together!!! :)

The Next Time He Comes

2011-12-05T10:11:00.000-05:00

Lately as I've been thinking about Jesus' birth, I began to get a glimpse of how His return is going to be so much different than His lowly, unnoticed, delivery into this world. When Christ comes to earth again, it will be triumphant and unmatched by any even we have ever heard of. What a glorious picture these words from Revelation describe! It will not be the picture of a helpless infant, but of a victorious, conquering, King of majesty with fire in His eyes....better to just read it for yourselves-
Revelations 1:4-8, 12-18
" Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen. "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty. Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength. When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, "Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.

Finally Home!

2011-12-02T23:30:00.001-05:00

I have fond memories of my grandfather (Elwood Forney), pulling me onto his lap as a child and together we'd sing, "He's still working on me", and of the fancy bicycles he bought me over the years, of the way he always kept his car spotless and shiny, and of the pet name he called me- "tootle-lump". I was the only granddaughter.

At 88 year old, Papa passed away this evening, and I know he was so excited to go and see Jesus & grandma. Although it's hard to feel the loss of a loved one, it's joyous to know I will see them again someday in Heaven. I can only image what we will do when finally get to see Jesus...Sometimes I just can't wait for that day!!!

Journey

2011-12-01T08:02:00.003-05:00

I, along with my family, am sitting with my grandfather and rejoicing with him as he walks the last lap of his race in this life. He is so excited to get to Heaven, that it's hard to see this as a sad time. Knowing how much he wants to just step on those glorious shores, reminded me yesterday how victorious this journey with Jesus is. What peace knowing there is nothing to fear!

6 Point Buck

2011-11-29T23:06:00.001-05:00

Andy got a buck today so we are looking forward to some ring bologna on its way! Yum!

Christmas Giving Challenge

2011-11-26T23:28:00.006-05:00

Andy & I have been talking for several months about how to change the materialistic traditions of Christmas we are a part of and focus on the needy instead, as we feel Jesus was prompting... We had not come to a conclusion when out of the blue we were recently challenged through an email to this: the email asked if instead of spending the money we were going to spend on our family for Christmas, give that same amount to mission-works in need! It's not to match the amount we were going to spend, but rather give the money instead of even buying the gifts for ourselves. (We usually know how much we are going to spend on each other...)

Want to join us in that challenge? What does your heart tell you when you are given a challenge like this??? "no way, that's dumb & over-the-top..." or a gentle nudge? Would you even consider it? What does Christmas mean to you and your family? Do we say "it's all about Jesus," but then do the same thing as everyone else on Christmas?

I just came across this article called, "Mary's Dream"

"I had a dream, Joseph....

I don’t understand it, not really, but I think it was about a birthday celebration for our Son. I think that was what it was all about. The people had been preparing for it for about six weeks. They had decorated the house and bought new clothes. They’d gone shopping many times and bought elaborate gifts. It was peculiar, though, because the presents weren’t for our Son. They wrapped them in beautiful paper and tied them with lovely bows and stacked them under a tree. Yes, a tree, Joseph, right in their house. They’d decorated the tree also. The branches were full of glowing balls and sparkling ornaments. There was a figure on the top of the tree. It looked like an angel might look. Oh, it was beautiful. Everyone was laughing and happy. They were all excited about the gifts. They gave the gifts to each other, Joseph, not our Son. I don’t think they even knew Him. They never mentioned His name. Doesn’t it seem odd for people to go through all that trouble to celebrate someone’s birthday if they don’t know Him? I had the strangest feeling that if our Son had gone to this celebration he would have been intruding. Everything was so beautiful, Joseph, and everyone so full of cheer, but it made me want to cry. How sad for Jesus – not to be wanted at His own birthday celebration. I’m glad it was only a dream.

How terrible, Joseph, if it had been real...."

If you take the challenge but need help with places to give, feel free to email me for information on several worthy missionaries faithfully spreading the gospel message of salvation through Jesus.

The Thanksgiving Chair

2011-11-24T00:00:00.001-05:00

Psalm 100:4 "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise! Give thanks to Him and bless His name."

Thankful Tree

2011-11-23T17:50:00.000-05:00

Here's an idea I want to take along to the Thanksgiving festivities tomorrow. Easy to do: gather some sticks from outside, grab a jar & some ribbon. Have a basket of cute "tags" and a pen. Let everyone young & old have a chance throughout the day to attach a written blessing to the Thankful Tree! (Thanks to Ang for the idea!)

Thomas Day Pictures

2011-11-21T23:12:00.012-05:00

We have SO many awesome pictures and video clips from our day with Thomas the Train, but for some reason, my computer program is not working well with the pictures on blogger, so I am only able to show some of the pictures. You get the idea though of how neat everything was at Strasburg. I plan to print all the pictures and make a scrapbook for Clayton since He LOVES everything about Thomas the Tank Engine!!!
We had an awesome day with the kids seeing Thomas. We definitely hope to go back again sometime! Maybe in the summer next time...

Day Out With Thomas!

2011-11-19T22:46:00.003-05:00

We spent all day with Thomas the Train at the Strasburg Railroad station! You can imagine how excited a certain little boy was! It was chilly and fun with lots of walking and playing, so we are all exhausted, and I will have to upload our photos and videos another time.

'Lil Lobsters

2011-11-17T16:15:00.003-05:00

My kids have two favorite reasons for shopping at our local Giant store. The horsey ride outside, and the lobster tank. They love watching them bump into each other. Then for the ten minutes after we leave the lobster tank, Clayton and Sadie pretend to BE lobsters, pinching each other and giggling. :) It's totally worth the five minutes we have to stand there and watch the lobsters.
With the busyness of the day, it's always nice to look in the mirror and see my babies all tuckered out.

Are You Labeled?

2011-11-15T23:37:00.001-05:00

November 15, 2011

Labels
Lisa Whittle, She Seeks

“I have called you by name; you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1b (NLT)

I ran down the stairs to find the usual smattering of bright red, green and silver wrapped boxes full of gifts. I tore into them, anticipating the many things I’d written on my long Christmas wish list. All the gifts excited me. But one, in particular, was a favorite: my very own shiny black label maker.

In the weeks to come, I would put labels on everything. My shoes had white sticky strips with gray crooked letters that spelled ‘Lisa’ on them. So did my books, my bags, my plastic baton handle and even my padded bicycle seat. I took great pleasure in tagging the things I loved with my name.

But as the years went on, I used labels in different ways. I labeled myself as confident when deep down, I was really afraid. I labeled myself as bad when I became weighted down by my sin. Even as an adult, when my husband and I closed the church we started just 13 months earlier, I labeled myself a failure.

Labels. Not all of them are good.

Often, the labels we put on ourselves as grown women can create holes inside us — the kind of internal voids that only God can fill. We do this when we pluck one negative experience from our life, or even, a positive one, and we decide that our life story, worth and future rests on the label our experience has created. It is then that we fail to remember that the only label we need ever wear is the one that says we belong to Jesus.

Jesus did not create us to wear the labels of this world, even the ones we place on ourselves. Instead, He created us as His “dearly loved children” (Eph. 5:1 NIV).

Labels get in the way of this. They keep us tagged with unhealthy stigmas, emotions and pieces from our past that weigh on us and stifle His intention for our life.

The truth is, our experiences do not own us unless we give them permission. Instead, we have access to the power of God to help us peel off the labels, so we may start living a whole new story — our own story of wholeness.

Are you ready to live without your labels? If you are, then you are in the right place.

Because today, Jesus wants you to know that His label of love has covered all the rest. And with that covering, no other label has room to stick.

Dear Lord, thank You for being the only label I need wear. Help me to take off the other labels I have been given, even by myself. May I know, today, that identity in You offers freedom…and may I receive it into the deepest places of my heart by the power of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:

Have you struggled to move past the labels you have had in your life?

Reflections:
How can I begin to see myself with only the label of “child of God”?

Power Verses:
Galatians 1:15, “But even before I was born, God chose me and called me by his marvelous grace.” (NLT)

2 Peter 1:3, “By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.” (NLT)

Special Visit

2011-11-14T23:46:00.001-05:00

It was great for Andy to get to end his long holiday weekend with a long-overdue visit from his battle buddy, Mike Stein! I was determined to somehow get these 2 close friends and OEF veterans together over this particular weekend, and I know we all enjoyed having "Uncle Mike" stay at our house, and watching them laugh and reminisce about combat stories. He has to leave tomorrow though, so it's "back to the grind."

Fear Not

2011-11-13T10:05:00.000-05:00

That Hymn Thing

2011-11-12T09:30:00.000-05:00

I have always enjoyed music history & the stories of groups, and heard this Glad spotlight on the radio recently and really wanted you to hear it for yourself!!!!

It's funny how we try to make a certain style of music more "holy" when it is in many regards, simply their preference and worship style and time period for the time being. :)

Veteran's Day~ 11/11/11

2011-11-11T01:11:00.000-05:00

Thank a veteran today! I know I will! ;)

Pumpkin Scones

2011-11-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

I made these festive scones for a ladies' brunch I'm headed to this morning. They are easy and oh so delicious!!!! They freeze well too, so you can make some now before the actual Thanksgiving rush starts, and just pull them out the night before using them.

Starbucks Pumpkin Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour
7 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
6 tablespoons cold butter
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
3 tablespoons half-and-half
1 large egg

Powdered Sugar Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
2 tablespoons whole milk

Spiced Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
2 tablespoons whole milk
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 pinch ginger
1 pinch ground cloves

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F*
Lightly oil a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices in a large bowl. Using a pastry knife, fork, or food processor, cut butter into the dry ingredients until mixture is crumbly and no chunks of butter are obvious. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin, half and half, and egg. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Form the dough into a ball.
Pat out dough onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a 1-inch thick rectangle (about 9 inches long and 3 inches wide). Use a large knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough twice through the width, making three equal portions. Cut those three slices diagonally so that you have 6 triangular slices of dough. Place on prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 14ï¿½16 minutes. Scones should begin to turn light brown. Place on wire rack to cool.
TO MAKE THE PLAIN GLAZE:.
Mix the powdered sugar and 2 tbsp milk together until smooth.
When scones are cool, use a brush to paint plain glaze over the top of each scone.
AS THAT WHITE GLAZE FIRMS UP, MAKE THE SPICED ICING:.
Combine the ingredient for the spiced icing together. Drizzle this thicker icing over each scone and allow the icing to dry before serving (at least 1 hour). A squirt bottle works great for this, or you can drizzle with a whisk.

Duggers...Adding to the Family!

2011-11-09T11:58:00.000-05:00

"I was not thinking that God would give us another one, and we are just so grateful," Michelle said on "Today." The Duggar mom was surprised about her 20th baby. However, she expressed major enthusiasm about the new addition. "We are so excited," the unsuspecting mom said.

I have always enjoyed following the Dugger Family. Here is their official website.

Orange Poppy Update

2011-11-08T16:05:00.002-05:00

Josh & Donna Peachy will be home for a month!!!! They fly out of Guatemala next Tuesday and appreciate prayers. Can't wait to see them....Read their newest update here.

The Mini-Mommy

2011-11-08T15:47:00.007-05:00

Sadie is so sweet with her dollies. I recently heard her talking and found her on Clayton's bed, reading the "Babble" to her baby. Even as I took her picture and ask her what she was doing, she continued to take her "Babble reading" very seriously.... :)

The other day when I felt so very sick (fever, strep throat, ear infections...), I told the kids they had to watch a movie so Mommy could rest. Clayton was thrilled to do just that. Sadie went to find her dolly, the blanket she says is her baby's, and cuddled up to take a nap with me. She sure is a good mini-mommy to those baby dolls! :)

Where the Spirit of The Lord is, There is Freedom

2011-11-06T08:12:00.002-05:00

Absolutely cannot get this song out of my head...not that I mind. Psalm 24:3 "Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!"

The Starving Orphans...

2011-11-04T07:17:00.000-04:00

Clayton saw pictures of hungry kids, and that started a candid conversation about the kids around the world who have nothing to eat. He was struck with compassion and he said he wanted to give them some of our food. I'm not sure what action we will take in the future, but I know there are so many valid organizations that supply food to hungry children such as Compassion International, Feed the Hungry, & World Vision. I have many friends ministering to the lost and have ways to send supplies to the orphans, so that is another option. Of course, adoption is never far from our hearts and minds. What can you do?
James 1:27, Matthew 25:40.

Coming Home

2011-10-31T07:00:00.001-04:00

Andy's been away the last 3 weeks, and although he was not overseas, this particular training we had limited communication. I don't know what time, but he is supposed to get home sometime tonight, and I can tell you, there are 3 people who cannot wait to see our soldier walk in the front door!!! Being a military family makes us cherish the times we do have together. The times we have to be apart, remind us to lean hard on Jesus for our joy and strength, and realize that no human was ever meant to complete us or fulfill the void that only the Lord can fill. Our knowledge of this is put to the test many times, and will be especially next year.
Clayton just told me out of the blue that, "God always keeps His promises, and He's Jesus' Dad!" :)

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like....

2011-10-29T14:56:00.004-04:00

WAIT A MINUTE!!!! I didn't even get our fall pictures taken yet, and now a forecast of 4-8 inches today...in OCTOBER!??? I'm not really complaining because I DO like snow, but I look forward to it in the winter, like close to Christmas!
I heard on the news that it hasn't snowed here in October since the civil war!
The kids were thrilled though, and of course that makes it magical no matter what time of year it snows.
We had lots of errands to run today, so we were out & about in the storm, buying supplies for the coal stove etc. We are ready for whatever weather now. Bring on the cookies and hot chocolate, and maybe even the Christmas music! :) Now if only Andy were home to shovel the coal for me....oh well, can't have everything.

Working Out, Weight-Loss and Other Such Woes

2011-10-26T23:31:00.006-04:00

I haven't been doing anything exciting to blog about lately...EXCEPT I have been exercising regularly again though, and boy is my body feeling the consequences. ouch! I recently got all my fall/winter clothes out, and was very annoyed with myself for not losing weight this summer, so I am back to working out on a regular basis, as well as cutting calories. I intake a maximum of 1,500 calories per day. I've only lost 10 lbs. so far, but it's just enough of a morale booster to keep me motivated. The picture of Clayton (pardon the lack of pants! lol). I had just finished an intense workout on my elliptical, when he wandered down to the basement to see what I was doin'. He decided he really wanted to "exbersize" like Mommy, so I let him stay on the machine for quite a while.
My husband & kids have been great encouragement with my weight-loss progress! Today I went to the mall early before the stores open. There's a walking program that even marks "mileage" inside the mall. Once around the entire outskirts of the mall is .7 miles. I had heard about it, but was surprised how MANY people were in there walking up a sweat! Young and ancient, handicapped and super-fit! It was cool! I pushed the kids in the stroller for several laps, and then let them run along beside my brisk pace. They loved it, so I will definitely be returning to the mall for a good workout if I need a change-up from my elliptical and as the weather gets crazy outside with snow!
Although I was sweaty and gross, I realized I needed a few grocery items, and of course the kids begged to ride the horsey. I only had $.50 though, so they had to ride together. They didn't mind. This is quickly becoming a grocery-shopping tradition! :)

No-Show Sunday Sermon

2011-10-24T23:24:00.004-04:00

http://www.elevationchurch.org/sermons/noshowsunday/part1
I encourage all church workers, pastors etc. to watch the sermon linked above!!! It's MEANT to be very far out of your comfort zone from the first few seconds, and you'll see why. :) Regardless, I LOVE the message & how true and relevant this message is to churches everywhere. It's worth your time to watch and receive the truth in the context it was meant to be heard.
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Also, if you watched the whole sermon linked above and are ALREADY out of your comfort zone, you might as well read this blog post of a pastor in SC (linked below)
http://www.perrynoble.com/2009/12/14/this-sh_t-is-awesome/

Fisher Price Nativity

2011-10-20T11:20:00.000-04:00

Target is now stocking the Fisher Price Nativity sets on their shelves. They are already out of stock online, so I was just reminding you with small kids or those of who need to shop for young children, to shop NOW if you want one of these sets. Locally, our Target has only 2 sets left. (when I was in the other day, they were fully stocked!)
I wanted one for the last couple Christmases but completely underestimated how much my kids would LOVE their new nativity!!! It was so convenient to teach them the real meaning of Christmas with these toddler-appropriate toys. Even thinking about this makes me so excited to for Thanksgiving and Christmas to get here!!! We hope to make it extra special year 2011 before Andy has to leave!!!

30 STRAYS IN OUR HOUSE! HELP!!!!!

2011-10-19T10:32:00.000-04:00

HAHA. Did the title get your attention. When the 30 STRAY SOCKS got mine as I tried sorting through the stray-sock basket in the kids' room the other day!!!
I could not fathom how we had that many unmatched socks!!! I searched through the laundry still being done and did manage to find about 9 matches, but I still have approximately 20 socks still without a mate!!! I know a lot of people who are buying Miss Match socks and Crazy Socks, so I went ahead and made "pairs" of similar matches (pictured below). Anyone know or have proof if the washer or dryer really does EAT socks??? I do have a lingerie bag that I always washed the kids' socks in when they were infants, but after age one or two, the sock-size grew and I didn't think it would be a big deal anymore....maybe I should just go ahead and use that mesh bag until the kids have adult size socks. Whew!
Did you ever see the dryer's lint trap after just one load!? There's no way I have that much lint in MY worn clothing, right? I think the dryer is programmed to destruct 1-2 socks out of each load. Or maybe it's just that the strays are still stuck to the gathers of my fitted bed sheets....Whatever the theory, I suppose I know of two particular kids that are going to be rocking the mismatched sock trend for a long time!!! :)

Clayton & The Gospel Story

2011-10-16T07:43:00.002-04:00

Before falling asleep last night, Clayton wanted me of course to say night-night prayers. When I started to pray (he was in my bed, since his Daddy is away), he started jumping on the bed. So I stopped praying and acted like I just went to sleep. He immediately laid down and begged me to pray again. I said that praying wasn't the time to be silly. This happened 2 more times. Finally I said he was disobeying Mommy and I was not going to finish his night-night prayers if he couldn't be serious. He laid down and cried and begged for me to keep praying. When I asked him why? he said, I really want you to pray, I like that."

I'm not quite sure why I even thought of it, but I asked him if he knew what the word sin meant or the word gospel. He said, "no, what is it?"

I said, "Well, 'gospel' is a story about Jesus. Want to hear it?" Yep. He sure did! My mind was racing trying to put everything in such simple terms. We talked a long time about how "sin" is when we do bad things. Of course he wanted to know, "like what?" HHmmmm...it was easy to point out his sins (and Sadie's)...when they disobey Mommy and Daddy, when they hurt each other on purpose, when they lie etc.

Then Clayton said materafactly, "and You and Daddy sin too." I had to admit I wanted to feel defensive and argue that I didn't, but like a lightning flash, my impatience, selfishness, pride, doubt, fears...all the thing I know to do and don't, it all came to mind, and I had to say, "Yes, Mommy sins too. We don't have to though, because of the gospel story I need to tell you about." Clayton again, "What is the story?" By this time, I was so emotional, but knew he wouldn't understand that, so I sucked it up with only one tear escaping, I started with,

"Well, you know the whole story about Jesus dying on the cross, right?" (We really worked on that around Easter and ever since) "And when we ask you "why did Jesus die on the cross?" you know to answer "Because He loves us SOOOOOO much, right?" He nodded yes. "Well, Jesus DOES love us, but it is also because every person in the whole world had sin in their hearts, and since Jesus is perfect and good and never sinned, He was the only one that die to take our sins away. When He died on the cross, He knew if we asked Him in our hearts, He could take away all the sins we had done and could live in us and help us be good like Him."

Clayton hopped off the place he was sitting from the bed, and returned with a heart-shaped pillow that I used for birthing Clayton (another story). I didn't know how much Clayton was understanding, and couldn't believe it when Clayton said, "here's a heart, Mommy. How can I get Jesus in there?" It about took my breath away. I had to smile at him holding that heart-shaped pillow! He was so sincere and adorable. I tried to explain, "Well, you know how when you say something mean to Mommy and I say you hurt Mommy's heart?" It was like a light came on. "Oh! yeah." He pointed to his belly-button and said, "My heart's in here." :) Then he repeated, "How does Jesus get in there?" Oh my word...I felt so inadequate to be on the spot, then I remembered, it didn't have to be perfect or a one-time conversation. So we talked a little bit about prayer and how Jesus and God (I didn't want to stretch his understanding by explaining the Holy Spirit quite yet), but that they can see us and hear us all the time even if we can't see them with our eyes. That was more of a refresher course, since we had talked about it a little bit before. And that when we should focus on Jesus and not just ask Him for stuff. (whew! this was turning into more lessons than just the simple gospel) He was sticking right with me though and asking questions here and there. Then I told him, "to 'get Jesus in there' we just pray like this, (I meant to just say a simple pray of accepting Jesus). I was caught off guard when he started repeating what I said!!! The prayer was simple, "Dear Jesus," (he started repeating me right there.) "I'm sorry for my sins. I don't want to be a bad boy. Please forgive me. I want Jesus to come live in my heart and help me be a good boy. Thank you for dieing on the cross for my sins. In Jesus' name, Amen."

I thought there'd be a huge smile on his face or something, but he was just calm and snuggled into his pillow. I forget that we adults, put a lot of "process and expectations" on experience when we can just rest instead.

I always dreamed this day would come, and I'm not pretending to think he won't have struggles or that he even truly comprehends all that we talked about, but I am resolved to do my best to keep talking about the gospel to him, in fact, I told him we are going to talk about it more tomorrow, and he cheerfully agreed.

I thank God for awakening something in Clayton, but it is such a responsibility to teach and guide him, and make sure he sees us walk this out before him. Perfectly? NO! but increasing? YES!

"To God alone be the glory, to God alone be the praise. Everything I say and do, let it be all for you, the glory is Yours alone, Yours alone..." ~Aaron Shust

Concord Grape Jelly

2011-10-15T16:24:00.003-04:00

MMMMMMMmmm, my whole kitchen smells like a Welch's factory!!!! I just finished making grape jelly for the first time. (I've made Strawberry freezer jam, but never other fruit jellies until today.) When I saw and smelled (yes I sniffed them in the store :) the concord grapes for sale this week, I bought 2 boxes, not sure what I was even going to do them. I thought maybe they would just be extra yummy for us to eat. Then homemade concord grape jelly popped into my head...
Homemade Grape Jelly:
2 small boxes of grapes (like pictured above), approx. 4 lbs.
6 cups sugar
1/2 water
1 sleeve of liquid fruit pectin (Certo)

I used Andy's fruit extractor/juicer to get juice only. Otherwise you'd have to use a food processor to crush all the grapes and then use a double cheese cloth to strain out all the stems, seeds, skins etc of the grapes.
May need to add approx. 1/2 cup to get a total of 4 cups of grape juice.

Pour in the grape juice into a medium size pot over medium heat. Slowly heat to a boil. Add the sugar and bring to a full boil for 1 solid minute. Add the fruit pectin and boil again for a minute, stirring constantly.

Pour into sterilized and prepared half-pint/jelly jars. Should make 6.
If you poured while boiled, you shouldn't have to do a water bath, but otherwise, water bath for 5 minutes in canner.
My super yummy homemade concord grape jelly! MMMmmmm!

Only Grace

2011-10-14T15:46:00.002-04:00

Impatient again with my children today, I confessed my failure to God and with heartfelt tears, went an asked for forgiveness from each of my kids. They were super quick to forgive and express their love this frazzled Mamma. I know God forgave even more quickly. The more I fail, repent, and am forgiven, I realize if it were not for grace, I'd be without hope. I was studying The Lord's Prayer recently and was struck by Jesus' words: "Forgive us as we have forgiven..." We don't want God to forgive us as we have forgiven others, do we!? We want MORE grace extended to us than that. We want God's favor, but our flesh wants to hold a grudge towards an old wound or hurt. My prayer is to choose to quickly forgive when offenses come, since the Bible says it is impossible that offenses won't come. (Luke 17:1) I have been thankful for recent reconciliation in my life, and hope to learn how to better extend grace when needed. I am realizing that forgiveness is not a process. It's a choice. I certainly am far from perfect, but then, I don't claim to be perfect...

Watcha' Doin'?

2011-10-13T18:44:00.003-04:00

So yesterday, Clayton came into the kitchen as I was working on something and did a perfect "Isabella" impersonation:

and for more inspiration, he loves watching clips and episodes of Phineas and Ferb over and over...

A Season for Everything

2011-10-11T08:41:00.005-04:00

Today is the final Lewisburg Midday Connection after 50+ years. As a former chair of the group, I was asked to share for a few minutes. Not sure this counts as a few, but this is what I have to say today...
My first experience with Stonecroft Ministries was seeing a “National Guard Couples Dinner” in the newspaper. With my husband new to the National Guard in 2006, I thought maybe he forgot to let me know we were supposed to go to the event. He said he couldn’t remember, so I called the number and reserved for us to attend, assuming it would be full of National Guard members and their spouses…

When we got to the dinner, we looked around and realized we didn’t know ANYBODY! J We decided to stay anyway, and enjoyed the speaker who told about his days as an Army Ranger. We were even more surprised when he shared the gospel and what God done in his life.

After the luncheon, Diane Ippolito caught me, and invited me to join the luncheon group of ladies, known as Midday Connection. I thought, “sure why not?”

I thought it was going to be a few ladies gathered at a round table. I loved the lunch and was shocked to see the 80+ ladies gathered in the room. Diane said there was an opening on the planning team and that she hoped I would prayerfully consider helping out as a form of ministry in my life. I did enjoy being part of the planning committee.

At one point, someone suggested that it should be hard for me to promote the Stonecroft Bible study when I didn’t attend one myself…ouch! I did join the Stonecroft Bible study and started attending the Prayer Connections held in different women’s homes. God spoke into my life in the way I did not expect nor did I always know what to do with the truth I was receiving. The women were so patient with my tears and questions and took the time to show me scripture and pray with me. I will be forever grateful for the growth God brought during this time.

After serving for 5 years on the planning team, and I can say that Midday Connection along with Stonecroft Ministries is exactly what God needed to bring into my life to help me see the many benefits to reaching out and getting to know other ladies from all different backgrounds. I have found it easier to talk to new women about God. I also enjoyed having my mom, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, & close friends attend the luncheons with me. Some of them helped with music, and some were on the planning team as well.

I do not see this final luncheon as a negative, but as a beautiful farewell. I know these luncheons have touched many lives and I am one of those lives. I want God to get all the glory, because despite the hours of willingness and service that went into this luncheon throughout the years, the results are nothing we can claim glory for. Only God brings the harvest. We can only work in the field. I know everything has its season, and I will be forever grateful to be part of the season of the Lewisburg Midday Connection Lunch Group.
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For those of you who have asked me about different groups to plug into, there are two. "Brunch" begins at 8:45am & "After 5" begins at 6:30pm. You can email me for more details. arng.wife@yahoo.com

Adoption Fundraiser

2011-10-10T15:22:00.000-04:00

Ladies, Join us for a "Make-Your-Own-Craft" Fundraiser to support the Stoltzfus adoption. (Adopting Manny & Ruthie from Africa). Event to be held, Saturday, November 19th from 1-4pm at Freedom Fellowship.

What to expect:
~Demonstrations and supplies for up to four fun crafts, all perfect for keeping or gift-giving.
~Yummy fall refreshments & coffee
~Raffle including: Mike Yoder Pottery, Adrian Bergey Pottery, artwork by Ruth Yoder, framed prints by Katie Troup, and a photography package with Libby Hostetler
~Additional items for sale/pre-order: HOPE T-shirts for adults and children

You must pre-register to attend this event. Donations for crafts will be collected at the door.
Please choose from the following crafts:

1. Scrapbook Paper Tile Coasters
2. Fabric Scrap Wreath
3. Painted Wooden Snowman
4. Scrapbook Paper/Corkboard Wall Squares
(Suggested minimum donation of $10 per craft).
*For scrapbook paper crafts: scrapbook paper will provided. You may bring your own if you'd like specific colors and/or patterns.

Hope for Africa T-shirts: Adult Sizes $15/Youth Sizes $12. (order forms available)
HOPE
Find this event on Facebook: "Stoltzfus Adoption Craft Fundraiser" or
Contact me arng.wife@yahoo.com to register on or before Sunday, November 6th.

Eyes On You

2011-10-07T15:11:00.002-04:00

We walked to the park and much to the kids delight, there were 2 cheap pairs of abandoned binoculars on the picnic table. They love those crazy things, and think it's so funny that when turned backwards, everything looks tiny.

Grace Excerpts

2011-10-07T15:03:00.001-04:00

All who embrace grace become "free indeed." Free from what? Free from oneself. Free from guilt and shame. Free from the tyranny of others' opinions, expectations, and demands. Free to obey. Free to love. Free to forgive others as well as myself. Free to allow others to be who they are different from me! Free to live beyond the limitations of human effort. Free to serve and glorify Christ.

Because of grace we have been freed from sin, from its slavery, its bondage in our attitude, in our urges, and in our actions. But having been freed and now living by grace, we can actually go too far, set aside all self-control, and take our liberty to such an extreme that we again serve sin. But that isn't liberty at all, that's license. And knowing of that possibility, many opt for legalism lest they be tempted to live irresponsibly. Bad choice!

Freedom is frightening. There are people who want to be told what to do and when how to believe and why. And the result is tragic perpetual adolescence.

You can't be afraid of the heights if you're going to walk on the tightrope of grace. But at the same time you have to watch out for the strong gusts of wind that will occasionally blow like mad.

~Grace Awakening
Charles (Chuck) Swindoll

Courageous

2011-10-04T10:22:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited about <a href="http://www.courageousthemovie.com/themovie">Courageous</a>, from the makers of Fireproof, Facing the Giants & Fly Wheel!
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/E3zyJNzc_WU?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>

Prov. 31 Devotional

2011-10-03T09:49:00.002-04:00

To the right of this post is the "button" for Prov.31 Devotional. This is today's post, since I didn't have time to do a Friday Focus last week.

October 3, 2011

The Trust Factor
Alison Strobel
She Reads Featured Author

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

Yesterday I went into a job interview—junior high substitute teacher; how brave am I? When I walked out of it, I had a whole new calling.

Thing is, I don’t want a new calling. I like the ones I’ve been living with—wife, mom, novelist, children’s author. I didn’t think God had anything else up His sleeve, and I was okay with that. I’m not a big fan of change.

The man interviewing me told me he has a gift of discernment. Then he did something I’ve never seen or experienced: he spoke a word over me.

This kind of thing didn’t happen in the church in which I was raised. To me, a gift of discernment meant having a reliable sense about whether or not someone’s teaching was biblical, or if someone was telling the truth. It didn’t mean God could give someone else a glimpse into His plans for me. Yet what this man told me fit, like the one missing puzzle piece, into the changes I’ve been going through lately on both a personal and a professional level. As he spoke, I knew that what he was saying was truly from the Lord.

But I didn’t leave his office glowing with excitement. In fact, I wasn’t excited at all about what he told me, despite the fact that it spoke directly to my heart. It would require that I open my hands and release things I’ve been holding too tightly. And I’ll be honest, part of me really doesn’t want to.

I like my life just as it is. Remember, God, how I’m not a fan of change—even when it means seeing another dream realized?

The bottom line is this: I struggle with trusting God.

In my novel Composing Amelia, Amelia struggles with the same thing. She’d rather stay with what is familiar than trust God to give her a calling she’ll love but can’t envision right now.

I don’t want to be like Amelia. I don’t want to be short-sighted, dubious of God’s desire or ability to bless me, or resistant to the future He has for me. But my lack of trust, fear of the unknown, and reluctance to give up my comfortable life are threatening to hold me back from obeying Him. And that’s definitely not good.

So I have a choice to make. Will I believe that God’s plans are better than my own? Will I risk stepping out of my comfort zone? Do I believe the growing pains I’ll face will be worth the blessings that will come? Do I trust God to really take care of me? Or am I going to cower beneath my desk with my fingers in my ears and pretend like yesterday’s meeting never happened?

What about you? What changes is God nudging you towards that have you digging in your heels and tightening your grip on whatever you know you need to release? Do you believe the rewards are worth the pain? Or that God’s perfect plan is worth leaving your complacency and comfort behind?

Do you trust Him? Or are you hiding and hoping He passes you by?

The unknown is scary. But ultimately—for me anyway—it’s scarier to think of what I might miss if I don’t let go. And so I say a prayer, open my hands, and peer beyond the edge of what I know, into the vast expanse of the future where a giant question mark dominates the landscape. Do you see it, too?

Today let’s choose to trust God and not require that we like or even understand what He is calling us to do. Let’s submit to Him, believing that the path He calls us to take will always be worth the change, worth the risk, worth the effort, simply because He has chosen it for us.

Dear Lord, I praise You for Your love and for Your desire to see me grow. I thank You for the promise in Scripture that You are always with us, every step of the way, regardless of whether or not we see or feel You there. Forgive my uncertainty and doubts about the future, and give me the strength to take the next step You are directing me to take. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:

Take time this week to memorize one of the power verses below, and spend some time journaling or praying about a situation in your life to which you can apply it.

Reflections:
Where is God calling me to step out of my comfort zone? What is holding me back?

What would help me take that first step? Some accountability? Marking a day on my calendar on which to start? Determine what will help, and commit to it this week.

Power Verses:
Psalm 9:9-10, “The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.” (NIV)

Psalm 56:3-4a, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise—
in God I trust and am not afraid.” (NIV)

Yard Sale Day

2011-10-01T06:24:00.000-04:00

YARD SALE DAY HERE
Check out this link for great tips on having a yard sale!

Work. Life Lessons

2011-09-29T10:45:00.001-04:00

Work is super demanding for Andy these days. With just getting back from a school, trying to move his office to another town, preparing for annual training in a couple weeks and ultimately preparing for deployment in just a few short months, there's lots of long hours that have to be pulled. We cherish each moment we get with him lately, including this day (pictured above) where he forgot his wallet and dog-tags at home and had to stop by for 5 minutes to get them. yay! :)

We have gotten lots of comments, questions etc. over the years from lots of people about being a military family, but the kids and I do not resent this time in our family's lives. Rather we choose to create quality memories and to not take for granted the moments we do have, (which is a lot more than some people get). There are many occasions that are brought about for our sanctification, and it's not the problem we are in, but how we respond to it that makes the difference.
I am proud of Andy for much more than his service to our country. That can't be what defines us. I love him for him, and not for just who he is or what he does for a living. When we start to feel sorry for ourselves and think the situation or circumstances are not fair, I try to remember that, no, it might not be, but neither was Calvary.
Whew. I didn't mean to say any of that. Just that Andy had a big work load. lol. Guess I am learning a lesson in all of this and wanted to share it with you. Have a fabulous weekend! We are knee-deep in yard sale preparation as our community yard sales are Saturday.

Scripture Lullabies

2011-09-27T12:44:00.002-04:00

This Scripture Lullabies CD is a must-buy! It's perfect for the kids at night, and for me as I work in the kitchen. I actually have it on all the time. What a perfect way to keep scripture always on our minds! This CD would also be the perfect gift for someone else.

http://scripture-lullabies.com/

Homemade Play-dough

2011-09-26T10:17:00.007-04:00

Loving the homemade play-dough!!!
I couldn't believe how many different varieties of homemade play-dough could be made at home! To see what I mean, click HERE. I made some today for my kids. Easy, free FUN! :)
Homemade Playdough:
1 1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup flour
1 cup salt
2 cups water
1 TBS. oil
2 tsp. cream of tarter
food coloring (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. What the mixtures makes a dough all around your mixing spoon, dump onto wax paper. Wait until it is cool enough to knead into a pliable dough.
Makes about 2 lbs.
Store in a Ziploc bag or air-tight plastic container.

Home At Last...(for now)

2011-09-24T15:40:00.000-04:00

We are so very glad to have Andy back home from Arkansas!!!! His schedule has been so hectic lately, and we just found out that it's going to get even crazier for several more weeks, so we will enjoy this weekend to the fullest and at least for a couple days, not think about what the coming weeks will bring. :)

The Scent of Him

2011-09-22T11:42:00.000-04:00

With Andy away at a school, I don't have his laundry to do this week etc, but the other day, I was sure I "smelled" Andy, and couldn't figure out why my brain was telling me that...UNTIL, I went downstairs. As I walked, the strong "aftershave" scent got stronger and stronger until I discovered a slimy little girl cheerfully slathering her Daddy's shower gel all over her bedding...yeah. That girls finds every possible way to make a huge mess. The dirtier the better for her. Some other examples this week of her smears have been pudding, poop & potpourri. (See it's even alliterated!) :)

The Kids & Their Foods

2011-09-21T10:47:00.004-04:00

This is week is quite mixed up versus our usual routines. The kids' food choices are no exception! Clayton thought it was funny to put his dino-nuggets into a face and this morning, the kids insisted on having SHRIMP for breakfast. Who knows, maybe we will go ahead and have their usual breakfast foods for supper tonight. :) Does it really matter what order we eat our foods?
Ok, I know this was boring...I will try to think of something interesting to blog. :P

Today's Activites

2011-09-19T23:34:00.003-04:00

They say there's nothing more American than apple pie...well, I just got done canning my apple pie filling for this year. It made the whole house smell so yummy!!!

I LOVE the stores with rides outside, because it makes the perfect motivation for these two kiddos to be good in the store with hopes of a ride when we come out. (Pardon Sadie's expression. It was hard to get a good picture with my phone while they were moving.) They each rode by themselves, then climbed on together. :)

Welcome Fall Y'all

2011-09-18T13:52:00.000-04:00

Whew! With the cold air we had night this weekend, I brought my fern and other porch plants inside overnight. (I'm NOT complaining though. I LOVE the cold, and I love not needing the air conditioning on) I have never "babied" any plants through the winter before. Andy's grandmother has had the most beautiful geraniums for years, because she brings them in and takes good care of them until late spring the following year. I am going to try that with a couple of my favorite plants this year. Email me with any tips or what your success rate has been in this area. I tend to have a black thumb, although I hate to admit it.
arng.wife@yahoo.com

Fake vs. Authentic

2011-09-16T00:30:00.006-04:00

Have you ever eaten "cheese product"??? It looks like cheese, and is sold in the cheese department. It even is used the same as cheese, but it IS NOT CHEESE! The cost difference of fake cheese is a very different than real cheese, isn't it? Same with butter vs margarine, chocolate milk vs. chocolate flavored drinks, and so many other things marketed. We can acquire a taste for the cheaper products, but you get what you pay for. There are rarely the same health benefits in the fake as their are the genuine food source.
The same goes for those who claim to be Christ-like, but do not have a passionate, vibrant relationship with Jesus. They may say a lot of good things, do many things to try to prove that they are holy, but when it boils down to it, even the unsaved are accustomed to following guidelines on speech and dress code and conduct for their jobs. Authentic Christians realize that "doing" is not "being". Being authentic means being real, trustworthy, genuine, as opposed to copied, and/or fake. What are some ways people are fake vs. authentic?
(Matthew 5:47) If you are only kind to those who are your friends (or the people who talk, dress, talk like you), how different is that from the world?
~"Reputation is what men and women think of us; character is what God knows of us." -Paine.
(Matthew 6:2-4) When you give to someone in need, why call it out and/or bring attention to it? Jesus said said doing that will give you ONLY an earthly rewards. It's so fake and distasteful.
(Matthew 6:5-6) Do you pray differently when someone may hear you? Do you talk, act, dress, respond, joke, ____________ differently when certain people are around!? I'm definitely talking to myself as well. None of us are going to get this right every time.
In Matthew 5:48 Jesus says, "Be perfect as I am perfect." You say, I can't be perfect- I'm human. And Jesus says, "Exactly!" YOU can't be, but in ME (Jesus) is perfection, and when a holy God looks at you, He sees MY blood applied. NOTHING you have or ever could do."

Religions in general create ways for their followers to conform to a certain guideline. Different guidelines for different religions. Being in personal fellowship with Jesus breaks those chains of religion and makes all things new. People who are false, phony, gossip-y, critical, fault-finding, people who don't want to change- don't keep company with people like this. It is not to say we shouldn't pray for them nor should we be fake or unfriendly. Get around authentic people. People who love Jesus and His love shines from every part of their character.

Being Holy-Spirit led, being in The Word of God, and daily communication with Jesus breaks the powers of the spirit of religion and the many ways the devil would like to get our eyes off Jesus and onto ourselves and each other. The world may not understand, but Titus 3:3-5 says, "For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit." There is hope and power in trusting our faith in a God who loves us more than we could ever comprehend.
A fake is not always easy to spot. That is why people spend their money on knock-offs rather than the brand names in fashion. It is not our job to try to "spot" human fakes, but it is our job to work on the areas in our heart that God reveals as fake and become the authentic vessel He desires us to be!

Phone Pix Test

2011-09-14T12:30:00.000-04:00

This was a test to see if I could blog pictures from my phone. Guess it worked! yay!:)
(My camera is broken (story of my life) and I have to send it back to get fixed...ggrrr)

Flood Update

2011-09-12T09:42:00.000-04:00

If you click on the picture above, it will take you to a full report of this local town's (Bloomsburg) flood damage. Andy is STILL out with the national guard (haven't seen him since Tuesday night), and although he had planned to take some leave this week before heading out for another Army school, the leave has been canceled since the National Guard will be on state active duty for flood damage until Friday. I can't believe all the damage & devastation this flood has caused so many towns! My heart is warmed at hearing of friends taking food to those in need etc. That's true community, and such a blessing to the discouraged.

Remembering- The Cost of Freedom

2011-09-11T09:11:00.004-04:00

If there must be trouble, let it be in my day that my children may have peace. -Thomas Paine
Some have said, "I didn't know anyone in the towers, so 9-11 didn't affect me," but the very core of our country was threatened and terrorized when those planes flew into the world trade center, Pentagon and Shanksville, PA. We cannot live in our own little bubble. We must remember so we can feel what we need to feel to continue the mission against terror for our own country and countries around the world who are constantly being threatened and deserve freedom. One day, God will set all things right. Until then, we have to do our best to use the tools He has given us to fight the evil of this world.
Here is one godly family's story of the sacrifice made.

Brief Friday Focus

2011-09-09T13:23:00.005-04:00

I have too much on my to-do list to do a long Friday Focus this week.
The video below made sit up and remember...being busy is no excuse for "cropping" Jesus out of our day. He is better at guiding our lives than we could ever pretend to be, so why is control such a hard thing to let go???
It's all or nothing and He wants to be in control of our lives since He knows best for us.

Mark 12:30, Jesus said, "And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. "

Rain, Rain, Go Away...!

2011-09-08T11:22:00.002-04:00

Well, I don't know that I have actually thanked God for the fact that we live on a hill before this week! Whew! Andy has been put on state active duty with the national guard and said last night that the guys were out helping all over the place & would be on duty for however long they are needed. I kept updated with his texts and Channel 16 news. Someone asked me if I could get in and out of New Berlin, and I had to admit I actually do not know. I know that schools and church activities had been closed/canceled though. My hearts goes out to those in danger of flooding & those put into danger with helping with the flood control. Andy said he won't be home any time soon, possibly well after the weekend. He said it's really bad out there!!! His instructions to me: If you don't need to go anywhere, DON'T. Also make sure your phone is charged and you have water and flashlights handy if your electric go out.
Isaiah 43:2a (ESV)
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you.

Free Turtles Anyone?

2011-09-07T12:29:00.002-04:00

Free to a good home: Two Red Ear Slider Turtles.
I am the only one taking care of "Norda" & "Roxy" lately, so I decided someone else might like the turtles. Lots of friends have said to just take them to a pond, creek or river, but I thought I'd see if someone wanted them first.
They need very little attention. I just feed them one time per day. Red eared sliders are semi-aquatic, so they need to be able to get out of the water, and I would include their basking lamp. You can comment of email me with addition questions: arng.wife@yahoo.com

Baked Apple French Toast

2011-09-06T12:39:00.004-04:00

I hostessed a ladies' prayer brunch this morning. This "Baked apple french toast" is what I made to eat. The recipe is from Taste of Home. (I added some pears from my tree to put in with the apples. I also made my own pie filling rather than store-bought canned). It was SO delicious. Everyone loved it, and I will definitely be making this again in the future! Here's the recipe:

Prep: 20 min. + chilling Bake: 35 min.

20 35 55 Ingredients:

20 slices French bread (1 inch thick)
1 can (21 ounces) apple pie filling
8 eggs
2 cups 2% milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
TOPPING:
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons corn syrup

Directions

Arrange 10 slices of bread in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Spread with pie filling; top with remaining bread. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg. Pour over bread. Cover and refrigerate overnight. (Can be frozen for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in refrigerator the night before baking.)
Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Meanwhile, place brown sugar in a small bowl. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in pecans and corn syrup. Sprinkle over French toast.
Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 40 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Yield: 10 servings.

A Daddy's Cinderella

2011-09-04T00:24:00.000-04:00

This is one of Sadie's favorite things to do with her Daddy. Makes my heart smile every time I see the two of them laughing and spinning. Sadie is a Daddy's girl for sure!

Our Depravity

2011-09-02T08:30:00.001-04:00

Total depravity has been on my mind a lot lately. The idea that we were born with an absolute inability to make ourselves good before God- is staggering. When we truly understand the gospel that mankind had no way to be righteous, so Jesus took on our sin, and not just the "sin" of all the world, but He saw the individual sins that I would commit, and bore it all on the cross. What a crushing weight! There is still no good of our own that makes us righteous. We are still utterly dependent on the undeserved grace of Christ. Isn't it absurd that the Creator of everything would take the time to know His creation!? We must constantly remember this because when we even begin to feel pretty good about ourselves or what we have accomplished, the realization of our depravity should bring us back to humility and to our knees. We fall so short of the Lord's holiness, and that is why we must live our lives as continual worship to One who made us.

Psalm 8:4 "What is mankind, that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?"
Romans 5:8 "But God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

2011-09-01T15:42:00.001-04:00

We are off to the cabin for several days. Hoping to RELAX this (long) Labor Day weekend! :) See-ya!

Canning (part #2)

2011-08-31T14:17:00.005-04:00

The kids and I went to the local farmer's market last week and again today, and got lots of locally grown veggies for canning & freezing. (We also got Amish-made woopie-pies, homemade pretzel & hot sausage!!!) :) I absolutely love using this Roma food juicer for tomatoes and apples. I did all my pasta sauce last week & did pizza sauce today.
Sadie kept eating tomatoes as I processed them.
Simmering pasta sauce...
Clayton helping with corn.
I also did salsa, green beans & zucchini & pears, & some corn.
All I have to do is apple pie filling yet for the season.

Riding the Ride

2011-08-30T10:35:00.000-04:00

My kids LOVE to go to Kmart to "ride the ride." If I have enough quarters on hand, they even like to go before and after we go in the store. It's so sweet to see them enjoy something so much- it's well worth the $.50, plus it helps them behave in the store, knowing there's a ride waiting outside for good kids! :)

AAhhhh Monday

2011-08-29T08:56:00.006-04:00

I am so enjoying this monday morning! My windows are open with the crisp fall-like 55-degree weather.
I just peaked in on the kids and they are all bundled up in their blankets (yes at 9AM!)
We had company last night after church and and the house is still nice and clean, with no toys scattered on the floor (not the usual Monday morning), and all I have to do it start some laundry and relax to some worship, music and coffee...and that's where the "AAaahhhh Monday" comes in at! :)
I feel so blessed after an incredible, beautiful weekend, and also want to wish all the best to the new Mr. & Mrs. Rick Ziegler! (sorry I didn't get any pictures)

Ring Around the Rosie...

2011-08-27T22:02:00.004-04:00

I heard Sadie singing in the kitchen and found her spinning with my childhood Raggedy Andy! It so touched my heart, and I'm so glad I could get my camera out fast enough to snap these pictures. Sadie sings ALL the time- at the table, in the car, and before she falls asleep...At times Clayton gets exasperated with all her singing and tells her to stop, but she rarely listens to his demands. :) I love her to pieces and love that God has given her the innate gift of music!
Oh sing unto the Lord a new song; sing unto the Lord, all the earth. Psalm 96:1