My Dad is a CPA so number-crunching is something we do around here. I take after my Dad in that way. I don't like Trigonomety, Geometry, Calculus, etc...but I love elementary math. I tutored a girl for over a year in Math. It was while she was in 5th-6th grade. I loved helping her with her math homework. That's my type of math! :) Sometimes, though, I'm a bad number-cruncher. You know how guys are just better at things like directions, north-south-east-west type of things, and I think, personally, they are better with numbers and money. Girls, sometimes are clueless. Not every girl. But I think more girls than guys. And yes, I'm admitting a need for improvement in this area. The Proverbs 31 woman was a business woman as well {see verses 13-18}.
I am literally cracking myself up tonight because I was checking my bank account online today and thinking to myself, "You are broke, girl, totally, totally broke!" But I feel so RICH!!! I look around me and I can't help but shake my head and praise God. I'm not rich; I'm blessed! So blessed. I don't feel poor at all even though my banker would probably advise me to get another job. :) A few months ago, I signed up at mint.com. It's a great website. One of the figures it gives is a person's net worth. I remember looking at that and thinking, "I cannot believe that's my net worth. I don't feel that poor at all."
We are so rich and blessed in America and I think that the majority of us don't even realize it!! Have you looked around at your life and started laughing in wonderment at how blessed you really are? Just take a moment and look around your apartment, bedroom, or house and realize how much we have. We're so rich!! Ever since my brother has been back from Africa, he's made several comments about how blessed we are. He and I went to the grocery store last night to pick up a few last minute items for our New Year's Eve party tomorrow night. He was shaking his head as we were walking out the door. He just kept saying, "We are so blessed. We are so blessed."
Do you really, I mean really thank God for your food. No. Stop. I mean actually say and mean it in a heartfelt way. Thank you SO MUCH, Lord, for this delicious and wonderful food. Or is it just a habitual routine? We're so rich and blessed and wealthy in America.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
God's AMAZING grace!
At the end of November, our Sunday School teacher asked us to turn in a list of five things we were grateful for. Then, he planned to read them in class the next week.
Of course, one thing that was mentioned was our salvation.
But, the teacher pointed out something so interesting to me. I have heard it stated this way before but it completely overwhelmed me. In John 1:11 it says, "He came unto his own, and his own received him not." Verse 12 goes on to say: "But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." THEN, tonight in my Bible reading, I came across this verse in Matthew 12:21: And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.
Let me try to explain the best way that I can remember. Jesus came to save His people {the Jews} but they "received him not." So basically, if we're a Gentile, PRAISE GOD FOR SALVATION. If you let that thought sink into you, you can't help but raise your hands in praise!! I feel so overwhelmed with this thought.
What made me think about this tonight is that it is so noticeable who is a Jew. Not only by their looks but by their family heritage. My Dad shops for his suits, shirts, etc...at a well-known men's clothing store in our area and the owner is a Jew. Very wealthy, I might add. Anyways, today when my Dad went in there, he was talking to the grandson. The grandson was telling my Dad about a conversation he had had with a co-worker about the current fight over in Israel over the land. This guy who is unsaved but is a Jew knew that the land is the Israelis because of the promise to Moses. Interesting!
I mentioned to my parents, "Isn't it so interesting how Jews know their family history?" Most people in America do not know their family history. I feel like our family {paternal side} is much more knowledgeable simply because our ancestors immigrated in the early 1900's which wasn't terribly long ago. But to know that you're a Jew because your family history has been passed down through the centuries is absolutely incredible!!
Anyways, just wanted to share this thought with you.
Praise God for AMAZING grace! Truly.
Of course, one thing that was mentioned was our salvation.
But, the teacher pointed out something so interesting to me. I have heard it stated this way before but it completely overwhelmed me. In John 1:11 it says, "He came unto his own, and his own received him not." Verse 12 goes on to say: "But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." THEN, tonight in my Bible reading, I came across this verse in Matthew 12:21: And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.
Let me try to explain the best way that I can remember. Jesus came to save His people {the Jews} but they "received him not." So basically, if we're a Gentile, PRAISE GOD FOR SALVATION. If you let that thought sink into you, you can't help but raise your hands in praise!! I feel so overwhelmed with this thought.
What made me think about this tonight is that it is so noticeable who is a Jew. Not only by their looks but by their family heritage. My Dad shops for his suits, shirts, etc...at a well-known men's clothing store in our area and the owner is a Jew. Very wealthy, I might add. Anyways, today when my Dad went in there, he was talking to the grandson. The grandson was telling my Dad about a conversation he had had with a co-worker about the current fight over in Israel over the land. This guy who is unsaved but is a Jew knew that the land is the Israelis because of the promise to Moses. Interesting!
I mentioned to my parents, "Isn't it so interesting how Jews know their family history?" Most people in America do not know their family history. I feel like our family {paternal side} is much more knowledgeable simply because our ancestors immigrated in the early 1900's which wasn't terribly long ago. But to know that you're a Jew because your family history has been passed down through the centuries is absolutely incredible!!
Anyways, just wanted to share this thought with you.
Praise God for AMAZING grace! Truly.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Reason #4...
...to embrace winter.
Less humidity.
Hair stays straighter for a greater amount of time.
Actually, it looks better at the end of the day.
Less humidity.
Hair stays straighter for a greater amount of time.
Actually, it looks better at the end of the day.
Monday, December 28, 2009
boots, boots, and more boots
{Reminiscing moment here...that title reminds me of a tshirt that a girl received for her bday when we were in HS. She was interested in a guy with the last name of.....drumroll........boots.}
I was a girl with a mission today. Mission: find a pair of boots. Last year, I purchased my high-heels, black, DRESSY, WINTER boots. This year, I needed to purchase a pair of everyday boots. I found some at different big-box retailers in the town south of us. But none that would really work for me. So I decided to head to the downtown area. I am all about helping out the small business. Completely. I hate to see empty towns and the little I can do to prevent that is to spend my money there.
So I headed into a shoe store that was downtown. It was a very interesting experience, TO SAY THE LEAST. But I did walk away with a pair of black boots and a pair of {free} brown boots. Wow!! He threw in a discount coupon for next time and referral coupons with discounts for others. I will not discuss on this blog how much they cost. My Mom made me feel better by reassuring me that they were an investment because they will last for many, many years. Investment is the right word. For others, it may not have been an investment but for me it was.
I recovered from the sticker shock, though, after walking around in them all afternoon. I have one pair of footless tights. I'm such a southern girl that I greatly enjoy walking around barefoot. These boots ensure that luxury. They are the warmest boots, by far, that I have ever possessed in my entire life. I am looking forward to winter all of a sudden. :)
What is your boot story? Do you have a pair that you particularly love? Can't find the perfect pair? Suffer through winter dressed in your cutesy shoes? I'm so curious!
I am the pickiest person alive when it comes to {especially} boots + shoes.
I was a girl with a mission today. Mission: find a pair of boots. Last year, I purchased my high-heels, black, DRESSY, WINTER boots. This year, I needed to purchase a pair of everyday boots. I found some at different big-box retailers in the town south of us. But none that would really work for me. So I decided to head to the downtown area. I am all about helping out the small business. Completely. I hate to see empty towns and the little I can do to prevent that is to spend my money there.
So I headed into a shoe store that was downtown. It was a very interesting experience, TO SAY THE LEAST. But I did walk away with a pair of black boots and a pair of {free} brown boots. Wow!! He threw in a discount coupon for next time and referral coupons with discounts for others. I will not discuss on this blog how much they cost. My Mom made me feel better by reassuring me that they were an investment because they will last for many, many years. Investment is the right word. For others, it may not have been an investment but for me it was.
I recovered from the sticker shock, though, after walking around in them all afternoon. I have one pair of footless tights. I'm such a southern girl that I greatly enjoy walking around barefoot. These boots ensure that luxury. They are the warmest boots, by far, that I have ever possessed in my entire life. I am looking forward to winter all of a sudden. :)
What is your boot story? Do you have a pair that you particularly love? Can't find the perfect pair? Suffer through winter dressed in your cutesy shoes? I'm so curious!
I am the pickiest person alive when it comes to {especially} boots + shoes.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
get.out.of.HERE.!!
I totally HEART etsy. Completely.
So, I'm bumping around there today and found a neat feature called "pounce." Basically, you choose to pounce on an undiscovered shop {has yet to make its first sale} or a shop with a recent sale. I was pouncing around and found a cute shop.
In this shop, she mentioned that the fabric was designed by her and printed by spoonflower. I google spoonflower. And I just have to share. You should get over there and check it out. Here's the link: http://www.spoonflower.com/welcome
If you're interested in "pouncing" on etsy click here: http://www.etsy.com/buy.php
So...I can design my own fabric and I can get it printed? Just little 'ole non-important-don't-own-a-business me. Un.be.lievable. I still have to finish my quilt but come on, people, this is revolutionary!
So, I'm bumping around there today and found a neat feature called "pounce." Basically, you choose to pounce on an undiscovered shop {has yet to make its first sale} or a shop with a recent sale. I was pouncing around and found a cute shop.
In this shop, she mentioned that the fabric was designed by her and printed by spoonflower. I google spoonflower. And I just have to share. You should get over there and check it out. Here's the link: http://www.spoonflower.com/welcome
If you're interested in "pouncing" on etsy click here: http://www.etsy.com/buy.php
So...I can design my own fabric and I can get it printed? Just little 'ole non-important-don't-own-a-business me. Un.be.lievable. I still have to finish my quilt but come on, people, this is revolutionary!
Merry Christmas Eve to you, too!
Hi all!
We just got back from an overnight stay in Chicago. It was a nice change of pace. No pics, unfortunately. We stayed in a hotel on Michigan Ave. {Thanks, Tr*velocity!}
We ate a lot of food! First of all, we met a pastor who has been sent out of our church and started a church in downtown Chicago about two years ago. Actually, he's in the neighborhood where our President is from. Um, yah...a very liberal neighborhood. About the food. I'm not a huge meat eater but I ordered a patty melt. Woah, buddy! Del-i-cio!! I ate the entire thing.
Second place that we ate was at a steakhouse. I had salmon because I don't treasure steak like I treasure seafood. Yes, I'm weird. It was good.
This morning. Coffee and scone from a coffee stand in a mall.
This afternoon. Pizza from our favorite joint. But I was/am not feeling well so I didn't eat very much. Bummer!
Let me tell you about last night. First of all, I couldn't fall asleep because of an extremely sore throat. Then, as I was drifting off to sleep, loud noises from the hallway kept interrupting my sleep. At 12:30am, I woke up because of some very loud people. Bummer! Then, I woke up a few other times during the night. That's very odd because I claim to be a heavy sleeper and the bed was very comfortable. Oh well. I guess I'll sleep good tonight! {Jen, your post cracked me up. I wouldn't know how to deal with it either. Maybe sleep with your ipod on?? But you would still here banging pots and pans and you couldn't call security like I did last night!!}
It's been raining here today and now the temperature is dropping. Everything is turning to ice. We SLID down our driveway, coming pretty close to hitting the two cars parked at the bottom of the driveway. We may be walking to church tonight. Ha!
I hope you're night is merry + bright. Mine will be. I love going to church on Christmas Eve.
xx hugs + love xx
We just got back from an overnight stay in Chicago. It was a nice change of pace. No pics, unfortunately. We stayed in a hotel on Michigan Ave. {Thanks, Tr*velocity!}
We ate a lot of food! First of all, we met a pastor who has been sent out of our church and started a church in downtown Chicago about two years ago. Actually, he's in the neighborhood where our President is from. Um, yah...a very liberal neighborhood. About the food. I'm not a huge meat eater but I ordered a patty melt. Woah, buddy! Del-i-cio!! I ate the entire thing.
Second place that we ate was at a steakhouse. I had salmon because I don't treasure steak like I treasure seafood. Yes, I'm weird. It was good.
This morning. Coffee and scone from a coffee stand in a mall.
This afternoon. Pizza from our favorite joint. But I was/am not feeling well so I didn't eat very much. Bummer!
Let me tell you about last night. First of all, I couldn't fall asleep because of an extremely sore throat. Then, as I was drifting off to sleep, loud noises from the hallway kept interrupting my sleep. At 12:30am, I woke up because of some very loud people. Bummer! Then, I woke up a few other times during the night. That's very odd because I claim to be a heavy sleeper and the bed was very comfortable. Oh well. I guess I'll sleep good tonight! {Jen, your post cracked me up. I wouldn't know how to deal with it either. Maybe sleep with your ipod on?? But you would still here banging pots and pans and you couldn't call security like I did last night!!}
It's been raining here today and now the temperature is dropping. Everything is turning to ice. We SLID down our driveway, coming pretty close to hitting the two cars parked at the bottom of the driveway. We may be walking to church tonight. Ha!
I hope you're night is merry + bright. Mine will be. I love going to church on Christmas Eve.
xx hugs + love xx
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
[drumroll, please...........]
Reason #3 to embrace winter:
bugs die.
I went out to dinner with a friend on Sunday night who recently moved to FL to go to school. She was telling us about the hugest cockroaches ever that are down there. While I would love, love, love to live in the deep South, I am reminded of a blessing of the North. Large bugs die due to the cold temperatures. Amen.
bugs die.
I went out to dinner with a friend on Sunday night who recently moved to FL to go to school. She was telling us about the hugest cockroaches ever that are down there. While I would love, love, love to live in the deep South, I am reminded of a blessing of the North. Large bugs die due to the cold temperatures. Amen.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
o happy day!
Today has been fab-u-lous!
#1 - I woke up to snow gently falling.
#2 - I woke up knowing I completed a lot before I went to bed last night.
#3 - The peeps that I cleaned for today gave me a Christmas bonus + + + she bought me something from an etsy shop that I hearted. Absolutely, one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received. It may seem like a small gesture but it meant the world to me.
#4 - My Granny has made us laugh today. {I have to write this down for posterity.} Here's the story:
#5 - {I'm putting this up for my own motivation.} Today is going to end as an extremely happy day because all my gifts will be wrapped and put under the tree before I go to bed. :) How's that?!!
Merry, merry, happy Christmas!
#1 - I woke up to snow gently falling.
#2 - I woke up knowing I completed a lot before I went to bed last night.
#3 - The peeps that I cleaned for today gave me a Christmas bonus + + + she bought me something from an etsy shop that I hearted. Absolutely, one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received. It may seem like a small gesture but it meant the world to me.
#4 - My Granny has made us laugh today. {I have to write this down for posterity.} Here's the story:
She had an appointment at the doctor today. Doctor's appts. make her perk up in a very unusual way. Our doctor has been our doc since before I was born; he graduated from the med school where my dad works; and he is a very serious man. Another pre-note to the story, she tells my Mom and I frequently, "You are the prettiest and the sweetest thing that ever walked" or something in that variation. So today, she says to the doctor, "Did you know you are the most beautiful doctor?" My Mom said he turned beet red and they were laughing so hard. The other funny thing she said to him today was, "I bet you didn't think you were gonna get to see me today." Hil-a-rio!! Even though there have been many rough patches with her due to her dementia, we wouldn't trade the last 4 1/2 years with her living up here with us in IN. There have been so many memories!
#5 - {I'm putting this up for my own motivation.} Today is going to end as an extremely happy day because all my gifts will be wrapped and put under the tree before I go to bed. :) How's that?!!
Merry, merry, happy Christmas!
Monday, December 21, 2009
fall goals, recap
mission, accomplished:
finish reading the Bible through
Bible songs flip chart
start quilt
mission, in progress:
start quilt
organize idea notebook
finish course ONE of indexing course
I put "start quilt" under both catergories because I did start it; I washed and dried the material. :) But that's barely started. I'm glad that's at least done but I was hoping to piece the quilt.
The idea notebook is continually on my goals list because it is totally a work in progress. Have I explained what my idea notebook is? Basically, I collect magazines and after I'm tired of looking through them, I dissect them. {Side note: you would not believe how many ads are in one magazine.} I cut/rip out any recipes, decorating ideas, how-to's, etc...and put them in a big, fat notebook that I have. My current challenge is deciding how I want the notebook organized. That's the beast. By month? By topic? By column? The whole idea of the notebook is so I have a place to put articles and recipes as I encounter them through magazines, the newspaper, and the web.
Lastly, the indexing course has fallen by the wayside due to the successes I have seen in my etsy store. I would still like to develop the indexing career. However, I was completely intimidated and disenchanted when I went to the indexing conference at the beginning of November. Totally. But that doesn't mean I don't want to pursue it in the long run.
Winter goals:
~idea notebook~
~quilt~
~handmade gifts inventory~
~read Wives and Daughters~
~Scripture memorization~
~read the New Testament~
finish reading the Bible through
Bible songs flip chart
start quilt
mission, in progress:
start quilt
organize idea notebook
finish course ONE of indexing course
I put "start quilt" under both catergories because I did start it; I washed and dried the material. :) But that's barely started. I'm glad that's at least done but I was hoping to piece the quilt.
The idea notebook is continually on my goals list because it is totally a work in progress. Have I explained what my idea notebook is? Basically, I collect magazines and after I'm tired of looking through them, I dissect them. {Side note: you would not believe how many ads are in one magazine.} I cut/rip out any recipes, decorating ideas, how-to's, etc...and put them in a big, fat notebook that I have. My current challenge is deciding how I want the notebook organized. That's the beast. By month? By topic? By column? The whole idea of the notebook is so I have a place to put articles and recipes as I encounter them through magazines, the newspaper, and the web.
Lastly, the indexing course has fallen by the wayside due to the successes I have seen in my etsy store. I would still like to develop the indexing career. However, I was completely intimidated and disenchanted when I went to the indexing conference at the beginning of November. Totally. But that doesn't mean I don't want to pursue it in the long run.
Winter goals:
~idea notebook~
~quilt~
~handmade gifts inventory~
~read Wives and Daughters~
~Scripture memorization~
~read the New Testament~
endless gifts {166-176}
166. snow
167. my parents
168. Christmas cards from friends ::thanks, Jen::
169. an old friend texting me out of the blue
170. another old friend calling me out of the blue
171. provision for my needs
172. prompting of the Holy Spirit
173. ability to serve HIM
174. being illness-free
175. my sweet, little, Southern Granny that lives up here with us
176. warm scarves
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Simple Woman's Daybook
FOR TODAY
DECEMBER 17TH '09
Outside my window...gray skies, bare trees
I am thinking...about snippets of a message I heard on the radio as I was pulling into the driveway. Can't wait to download the sermon to my ipod.
I am thankful for...my family
From the kitchen...would really like to make either a chocolate cake or chocolate cupcakes with peppermint frosting
I am wearing...jean skirt, brown elbow-length shirt, cream scarf
I am creating...verse memory cards, Christmas gifts
I am going...to our church's Christmas Banquet tonight
I am reading...Lines of a Layman by JC Penney
I am hoping...for snow
I am hearing...a Christmas CD playing and the refrigerator humming
Around the house...evidence of Christmas is everywhere
One of my favorite things...scarves
A few plans for the rest of the week: finish Christmas gifts, get everything wrapped and mailed, wedding tomorrow night, normal weekend
Here is a picture thought I am sharing:
my cousin's fiancee - Janelle - I heart her!!
DECEMBER 17TH '09
Outside my window...gray skies, bare trees
I am thinking...about snippets of a message I heard on the radio as I was pulling into the driveway. Can't wait to download the sermon to my ipod.
I am thankful for...my family
From the kitchen...would really like to make either a chocolate cake or chocolate cupcakes with peppermint frosting
I am wearing...jean skirt, brown elbow-length shirt, cream scarf
I am creating...verse memory cards, Christmas gifts
I am going...to our church's Christmas Banquet tonight
I am reading...Lines of a Layman by JC Penney
I am hoping...for snow
I am hearing...a Christmas CD playing and the refrigerator humming
Around the house...evidence of Christmas is everywhere
One of my favorite things...scarves
A few plans for the rest of the week: finish Christmas gifts, get everything wrapped and mailed, wedding tomorrow night, normal weekend
Here is a picture thought I am sharing:
my cousin's fiancee - Janelle - I heart her!!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Because...
I'm in the process of switching over from bloglines to google reader. So, I'm posting some of my favorite videos, etc...that I have saved. So please excuse me if I am copying you here; it's only because I love 'ya!!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Crazy,
awesome,
blessed
BUSY!!
Last night, I signed up for a free trial of an online marketing tool.
The results have been nothing short of AMAZING!
Well, I get amazed at pretty much anything so maybe that's not saying much.
But, I got an order of several sets of cards + just the fact that some of my friends forwarded their email to others who I never would have reached.
Would you like to be on my contact list?
Click to subscribe on the right.
And, NO, this blog will not be a constant stream of posts regarding my etsy shop. It's ok when people use their crafting blogs to make a little money {that's all good and fine}. But sometimes, the entire tone of their blog changes to make $$. I become disinterested.
Anyways, if I'm not peeking my head up here every once in a while, please know that I am buried beneath paper, scissors, glue, and laminate.
Now for tonight, I am off for our church's Christmas concert. Double yay!!!
awesome,
blessed
BUSY!!
Last night, I signed up for a free trial of an online marketing tool.
The results have been nothing short of AMAZING!
Well, I get amazed at pretty much anything so maybe that's not saying much.
But, I got an order of several sets of cards + just the fact that some of my friends forwarded their email to others who I never would have reached.
Would you like to be on my contact list?
Click to subscribe on the right.
And, NO, this blog will not be a constant stream of posts regarding my etsy shop. It's ok when people use their crafting blogs to make a little money {that's all good and fine}. But sometimes, the entire tone of their blog changes to make $$. I become disinterested.
Anyways, if I'm not peeking my head up here every once in a while, please know that I am buried beneath paper, scissors, glue, and laminate.
Now for tonight, I am off for our church's Christmas concert. Double yay!!!
Monday, December 14, 2009
my endless gifts {156-165}
156. a friend who tells me what I need {not necessarily want} to hear
157. "accidentally" getting the oil changed a week early resulted in preventing a problem that would have caused a break-down
158. provision every.single.week.!!
159. learning more about Christ
160. once again, another opportunity to share a past experience/trial to encourage another
161. Christmas caroling
162. Christmas music
163. the Hallelujah Chorus
164. a good talk with my grandma
165. cousins!!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
broken and spilled out
Some days, working on a bus route as a ministry at church is exhilarating.
Others it's frustrating.
While still others, it's heart-breaking.
Today it was heart-breaking.
Recently, I was transferred to the 4-year olds Junior Church #2 class. One word: challenging. Some of the kids are super good. I think it's partly their personality because in public schools these days, I don't think kids are expected to sit still for an extended amount of time. And then there are the chosen few who are a weekly challenge. I remind myself that these challenging children have backgrounds. I made a point about a month ago to ask one of the bus captains about a few of Jr. Church kids who ride her bus. What I found out broke my heart. It gives me much more understanding and a much larger degree of patience when dealing with kids if I understand what their week is like.
Today, I was walking sweet and naughty little B down the hallway. It was a break for her {maybe she would attempt to listen after some exercise}. As I was walking down the hallway, I saw one of the kids off my bus outside of his class. He had been out of seat, etc..and broke something {that was kinda valuable - ie - an electric piano...cringe} in the classroom. Yes, this kid can be a challenge. Y.E.S.!! But what it has taken for him to be allowed to come to church {he has wanted to come for a few years now} and the home he comes from and his cute little cross-eyes totally broke my heart. I literally had to walk away because I was choking up. His home is not the best one. Sure, his mom loves him but it's rough from a Christian, Biblical standpoint.
As I was driving shuttle this afternoon, my thought processes turned into a post and "broken and spilled out" became the title. I hope my life is broken and spilled out for Jesus Christ. I want to give my all for Him. I want to be a channel of His love to these hopeless kids. I want to show them that SOMEONE does love and care for them. My dad often reminds us that we are just workers in His vineyard. We're just called to work and He produces the results.
I live for the Sundays when it is exhilarating.
I'm glad when a Sunday is over and it has been frustrating.
I'm so thankful for the Sundays when I am heart broken. It reminds me of why I need to be broken and spilled out.
Others it's frustrating.
While still others, it's heart-breaking.
Today it was heart-breaking.
Recently, I was transferred to the 4-year olds Junior Church #2 class. One word: challenging. Some of the kids are super good. I think it's partly their personality because in public schools these days, I don't think kids are expected to sit still for an extended amount of time. And then there are the chosen few who are a weekly challenge. I remind myself that these challenging children have backgrounds. I made a point about a month ago to ask one of the bus captains about a few of Jr. Church kids who ride her bus. What I found out broke my heart. It gives me much more understanding and a much larger degree of patience when dealing with kids if I understand what their week is like.
Today, I was walking sweet and naughty little B down the hallway. It was a break for her {maybe she would attempt to listen after some exercise}. As I was walking down the hallway, I saw one of the kids off my bus outside of his class. He had been out of seat, etc..and broke something {that was kinda valuable - ie - an electric piano...cringe} in the classroom. Yes, this kid can be a challenge. Y.E.S.!! But what it has taken for him to be allowed to come to church {he has wanted to come for a few years now} and the home he comes from and his cute little cross-eyes totally broke my heart. I literally had to walk away because I was choking up. His home is not the best one. Sure, his mom loves him but it's rough from a Christian, Biblical standpoint.
As I was driving shuttle this afternoon, my thought processes turned into a post and "broken and spilled out" became the title. I hope my life is broken and spilled out for Jesus Christ. I want to give my all for Him. I want to be a channel of His love to these hopeless kids. I want to show them that SOMEONE does love and care for them. My dad often reminds us that we are just workers in His vineyard. We're just called to work and He produces the results.
I live for the Sundays when it is exhilarating.
I'm glad when a Sunday is over and it has been frustrating.
I'm so thankful for the Sundays when I am heart broken. It reminds me of why I need to be broken and spilled out.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Get out
of dodge.
{where does the phrase come from anyways?}
Check
this recipe OUT!
Reaon #2 to embrace winter:
Peppermint.
I know you can have a peppermint any time of the year but during Christmas, it becomes special.
'Nough said!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Because...
...winter is not my favorite season {other than Christmas, snow, and skiing}, I thought I'd list reasons here-and-there when I find something that I enjoy about winter.
#1 - beautiful sunshine {Isn't it true that the earth is closer to the sun during the winter? Today, it is frigid, and I am not saying that lightly, but the sun is shining. And it is always so beautiful in the winter.}
#1 - beautiful sunshine {Isn't it true that the earth is closer to the sun during the winter? Today, it is frigid, and I am not saying that lightly, but the sun is shining. And it is always so beautiful in the winter.}
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
I don't know why I feel the need to justify myself
Growing up, I was never the one to do the most adventurous thing. I was too afraid of the possible consequences. For example, when skiing, I would ski the black diamond but never attempted anything out of my control. I didn't want to break a leg or an arm and have to be put in a cast.
This same mentality comes to driving in the winter. I just canceled my cello lesson tonight because I didn't want to drive in sleet-snow-slush-rain-ice. Am I wimp? Ha!
And I didn't want to drive in the sleet-snow-slush-rain-ice even though I was driving our huge Suburban with big rims. I love our truck and I feel safe driving it but I'm too afraid of crashing the baby. :) The new Suburbans have plastic {yes, you read that right - plastic} bumpers. Soon after we got the '08 Suburban, my Mom accidentally bumped {barely} a truck behind her and you would not believe the damage done to the bumper. We also have an '01 Suburban. Once, my brother bumped his friends car in a parking lot at work. Not one scratch on our truck and the other guys' car was severely damaged.
Potentially losing control on an icy road at night equals $$. So, I'm staying home.
I have about gazillion cookies to make. Here's my list: cookies for tomorrow nights choir/orchestra practice for our Christmas concert, cookies for prisoners {something through our church}, and cookies as gifts.
So although I feel like such a skirt cancelling my cello lessons, I'm glad because I have extra time to make these cookies.
Is it snowing in your locale? I hope it is!
This same mentality comes to driving in the winter. I just canceled my cello lesson tonight because I didn't want to drive in sleet-snow-slush-rain-ice. Am I wimp? Ha!
And I didn't want to drive in the sleet-snow-slush-rain-ice even though I was driving our huge Suburban with big rims. I love our truck and I feel safe driving it but I'm too afraid of crashing the baby. :) The new Suburbans have plastic {yes, you read that right - plastic} bumpers. Soon after we got the '08 Suburban, my Mom accidentally bumped {barely} a truck behind her and you would not believe the damage done to the bumper. We also have an '01 Suburban. Once, my brother bumped his friends car in a parking lot at work. Not one scratch on our truck and the other guys' car was severely damaged.
Potentially losing control on an icy road at night equals $$. So, I'm staying home.
I have about gazillion cookies to make. Here's my list: cookies for tomorrow nights choir/orchestra practice for our Christmas concert, cookies for prisoners {something through our church}, and cookies as gifts.
So although I feel like such a skirt cancelling my cello lessons, I'm glad because I have extra time to make these cookies.
Is it snowing in your locale? I hope it is!
Monday, December 7, 2009
our tree {for your amusement}
Yes! This was our tree this year. Was...as in past tense. I couldn't decide which pictures were the most pathetic and hilarious so that's why there are five photos.
This was a seven-foot Norway pine.
The needles were coming off at an alarming rate. This morning, we noticed bare twigs. My Mom started taking all the ornaments and lights off and that's how we got these pictures. Wow! That's not supposed to happen unless the tree isn't watered for about a month.
My brother went back to the tree farm where we purchase our trees and explained the dilemma. The guy there said that they told "everyone not to go there and cut down the trees from that section because they were landscaping trees. But people kept going there anyways." Excuse me...huh? You told multiple groups of people not to go there but they went anyways. Not just one random group of people. Of course, my parents didn't intentionally cut down a landscaping tree. My personal opinion is that they are losing a lot of money selling 7+ feet tall trees as Christmas trees rather than landscaping trees. So because of their misfortune, they're blaming it on the customers.
They did give us a discount on the new one.
It's a Fraser Fir which I absolutely adore.
They are so beautiful.
Friday, December 4, 2009
my Friday!
on the train...obsessed with a new phone
she's a sweet friend!
woah! look at the view! eight stories up.
...is my kind of town!
brother and sis!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Simple Woman's Daybook
For today...December 3rd
Outside my window...gray skies, no sun
I am thinking...about all the Christmas gifts I need to get together
I am thankful for...my Mom's health
I am wearing...my favorite cullottes and my favorite zip-up sweatshirt {'bout to get ready for work}
I am creating...actually nothing right now...I'm waiting for my crewel thread to get here
I am going...to work and then with my mom to Chicago for her appointment
I am currently reading...through Revelation and any catalogs that happen to come in the mail {hello, Christmas!}
I am hoping...we get snow soon
One of my favorite things...an organized closet
A few plans for the rest of the week...two jobs tomorrow {blessed}, then to Chicago with friends; normal weekend
From my picture journal
Outside my window...gray skies, no sun
I am thinking...about all the Christmas gifts I need to get together
I am thankful for...my Mom's health
I am wearing...my favorite cullottes and my favorite zip-up sweatshirt {'bout to get ready for work}
I am creating...actually nothing right now...I'm waiting for my crewel thread to get here
I am going...to work and then with my mom to Chicago for her appointment
I am currently reading...through Revelation and any catalogs that happen to come in the mail {hello, Christmas!}
I am hoping...we get snow soon
I am hearing...computer hum, refrigerator hum
From the kitchen...hopefully soup mix jars for gifts
Around the house....the construction is almost done in the bathroom {yay}
A few plans for the rest of the week...two jobs tomorrow {blessed}, then to Chicago with friends; normal weekend
From my picture journal
notice the date from last year
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Last Tuesday night was terrific. As I was driving to the library last night, I thought to myself, "A second Tuesday night in a row that has been fantastic. Wow!" And then it all went downhill from there. Nothing major, just dumb stuff. But if you think my life is all cherries and roses and sparkles, think again. Sometimes, happiness is a choice. I am so thankful for discovering Ann V. and the "multitude monday" that she hosts each week. It is changing my mindset to look at the little "gifts" in life.
Since I didn't want to leave a post filled with my grumbles, I thought I'd tell my paternal family history in a nutshell. I promised a few posts ago that I would tell you our story. Here it goes!
{Before I start, please remember that this is oral history.}
In the 1400's, Catherine the Great {a German} married a Russian king. The Russians needed help farming so an offer was made to the Germans. This offer included free land and no taxes for a certain number of years as long as they taught the Russians how to farm. These Germans settled along the Volga River. My ancestors were in this group of people. We refer to them as the Volga River Germans.
Fast forward to the early 1900's. My great grandparents came from Russia to America. They were trying to escape the C*mmun*sm there. All of my great grandparents came to America through different avenues. Some came by boat {through Boston...inside joke} while others escaped with barely their lives. Somehow, they ended up in the Flint area. Of course, GM was booming at the time. Many, many, many of my family members have worked at GM. Also, they were not Christians before they came to America. A sponsor for one of the family members was a Christian and led them to the Lord. Through this Christian testimony, family members were saved. This was the beginning of my godly heritage!
As the Germans in the Flint area were saved, they banded together and formed a church but not under a denomination. They called it the "Brotherhood." Both of my grandparents grew up in the Brotherhood. My dad also went to the Brotherhood meetings as a child with his maternal grandparents. The Brotherhood sounds like it was very fundamental and based soley on the Bible. They were kept very busy. This is an example schedule: Sunday - church all day; Monday - soulwinning; Tuesday - youth group; Wednesday - prayer meeting; Thursday - band practice, etc...My Nana {maternal great-grandmother} was chided as a child for rollerskating because it was seen as a worldly activity. That's just a small example of how they eschewed the world.
My Oma was an only child and her mother {Nana} was an only child but my Oma had a lot of cousins from her dad's side {we called him Pa}. When my Oma was older, her cousins formed "Cousins Club." I had the privilege of attending a Cousins Club. What fun! So many funny stories from the Brotherhood were told with German words and phrases sprinkled in and lots of laughter, of course!
This past Thanksgiving, I was thinking a lot about my heritage. My great-grandparents {both sets} were very godly people.
My dad's maternal great-grandparents: We refer to them as Mumma and Bobba. They left a huge impression on my dad. Bobba read the Bible at each meal {reminds me of Ann V.}. The memories my Dad has shared with us give me the impression that Mumma and Bobba lived very simple lives. They were so thankful to live in America plus be Christians. I aspire to be like them in their simplicity and deep love for the Word. My Oma was greatly influenced by Mumma and Bobba, as well. She grew up speaking German because she spent so much time at their house.
My dad's maternal grandparents: Since my dad was the first and only grandchild, he spent a lot of time with his maternal grandparents {Nana and Pa}. I believe they had a huge impression on my dad; he is very much like Pa. And he traveled with them a lot in the summers as they went to Brotherhood meetings in the Midwest.
My dad's paternal grandparents: We refer to them as Grandpa and Grandma Gaus {rhymes with house}. They had seven children. Grandpa was an evangelist and traveled the U.S. preaching in other Brotherhood meetings. They started a yearly tradition of having a Gaus Christmas party. That side of the family is a loud, crazy, happy family. As each branch of the family grows, I can sense new "trees" being formed. For instance, none of my grandpa's family will be at the Christmas party this year because my cousin is getting married down South. The core of the family lives in MI. Because we've always lived in IN, I have always felt like an out-sider to the real happenings of the family. As years pass, more and more are beginning to move away from MI.
I think I'm typing this out more for my remembrance than for your information! :) As I re-read this, there are so many untold stories peeking from between the lines! Someday...someday....!
I'm so blessed to come from a Christian family. Everyone is saved {or claims to be} except for a few second/third cousins who have married Catholics {horrible choice!}. I hope I never forget who my great-grandparents were. I hope and pray that I carry on the tradition that has been set before me.
"The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage." Psalm 16:6
Since I didn't want to leave a post filled with my grumbles, I thought I'd tell my paternal family history in a nutshell. I promised a few posts ago that I would tell you our story. Here it goes!
{Before I start, please remember that this is oral history.}
In the 1400's, Catherine the Great {a German} married a Russian king. The Russians needed help farming so an offer was made to the Germans. This offer included free land and no taxes for a certain number of years as long as they taught the Russians how to farm. These Germans settled along the Volga River. My ancestors were in this group of people. We refer to them as the Volga River Germans.
Fast forward to the early 1900's. My great grandparents came from Russia to America. They were trying to escape the C*mmun*sm there. All of my great grandparents came to America through different avenues. Some came by boat {through Boston...inside joke} while others escaped with barely their lives. Somehow, they ended up in the Flint area. Of course, GM was booming at the time. Many, many, many of my family members have worked at GM. Also, they were not Christians before they came to America. A sponsor for one of the family members was a Christian and led them to the Lord. Through this Christian testimony, family members were saved. This was the beginning of my godly heritage!
As the Germans in the Flint area were saved, they banded together and formed a church but not under a denomination. They called it the "Brotherhood." Both of my grandparents grew up in the Brotherhood. My dad also went to the Brotherhood meetings as a child with his maternal grandparents. The Brotherhood sounds like it was very fundamental and based soley on the Bible. They were kept very busy. This is an example schedule: Sunday - church all day; Monday - soulwinning; Tuesday - youth group; Wednesday - prayer meeting; Thursday - band practice, etc...My Nana {maternal great-grandmother} was chided as a child for rollerskating because it was seen as a worldly activity. That's just a small example of how they eschewed the world.
My Oma was an only child and her mother {Nana} was an only child but my Oma had a lot of cousins from her dad's side {we called him Pa}. When my Oma was older, her cousins formed "Cousins Club." I had the privilege of attending a Cousins Club. What fun! So many funny stories from the Brotherhood were told with German words and phrases sprinkled in and lots of laughter, of course!
This past Thanksgiving, I was thinking a lot about my heritage. My great-grandparents {both sets} were very godly people.
My dad's maternal great-grandparents: We refer to them as Mumma and Bobba. They left a huge impression on my dad. Bobba read the Bible at each meal {reminds me of Ann V.}. The memories my Dad has shared with us give me the impression that Mumma and Bobba lived very simple lives. They were so thankful to live in America plus be Christians. I aspire to be like them in their simplicity and deep love for the Word. My Oma was greatly influenced by Mumma and Bobba, as well. She grew up speaking German because she spent so much time at their house.
My dad's maternal grandparents: Since my dad was the first and only grandchild, he spent a lot of time with his maternal grandparents {Nana and Pa}. I believe they had a huge impression on my dad; he is very much like Pa. And he traveled with them a lot in the summers as they went to Brotherhood meetings in the Midwest.
My dad's paternal grandparents: We refer to them as Grandpa and Grandma Gaus {rhymes with house}. They had seven children. Grandpa was an evangelist and traveled the U.S. preaching in other Brotherhood meetings. They started a yearly tradition of having a Gaus Christmas party. That side of the family is a loud, crazy, happy family. As each branch of the family grows, I can sense new "trees" being formed. For instance, none of my grandpa's family will be at the Christmas party this year because my cousin is getting married down South. The core of the family lives in MI. Because we've always lived in IN, I have always felt like an out-sider to the real happenings of the family. As years pass, more and more are beginning to move away from MI.
I think I'm typing this out more for my remembrance than for your information! :) As I re-read this, there are so many untold stories peeking from between the lines! Someday...someday....!
I'm so blessed to come from a Christian family. Everyone is saved {or claims to be} except for a few second/third cousins who have married Catholics {horrible choice!}. I hope I never forget who my great-grandparents were. I hope and pray that I carry on the tradition that has been set before me.
"The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage." Psalm 16:6
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
prayer request!
My Mom is having a mole removed in out-patient surgery on Thursday. She's not concerned about it. I can't say with complete honesty that I'm not concerned but I'm not worrying about it. :) And the doctors aren't concerned.
But due to the intense amount of radiation she received while undergoing treatment for her leukemia, she is/was considered high-risk for skin cancer. They're just being cautious in having this mole removed.
I'm sure it's nothing but I'm sure you understand that I would appreciate your prayers! Yay for friends!
This December 7th will be Praise Day again! It will be eleven years since her initial diagnosis. GOD IS SO GOOD to our family. I am so blessed to have my mom here with me. A lady in our church passed away this year from cancer and she has daughters just a bit younger than me. I cannot imagine not being able to pick up the phone and talk to my Mom whenever I want. I am so grateful for the daily blessing of the presence of my Mom in our house!
But due to the intense amount of radiation she received while undergoing treatment for her leukemia, she is/was considered high-risk for skin cancer. They're just being cautious in having this mole removed.
I'm sure it's nothing but I'm sure you understand that I would appreciate your prayers! Yay for friends!
This December 7th will be Praise Day again! It will be eleven years since her initial diagnosis. GOD IS SO GOOD to our family. I am so blessed to have my mom here with me. A lady in our church passed away this year from cancer and she has daughters just a bit younger than me. I cannot imagine not being able to pick up the phone and talk to my Mom whenever I want. I am so grateful for the daily blessing of the presence of my Mom in our house!
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