Happy 11th birthday sweet, precious Natalie!

You are such a blessing to our lives and the lives you touch.  I thank God for you!  The twinkle in your eyes and that adorable smile brings pure delight to my soul!  You have taught me so much about life.  Peace, perseverance, love, joy and compassion.  You are such a trooper with all you endure.  I am sure  God’s hands are all over your  life and He is using YOU in many, many ways to further His kingdom.  I pray that you continue to run the race that has been marked out for you and that in doing so,  you bring others to a position of realizing their desperation for  Jesus.  Let your light shine sweet girl!!  May God blanket you with his protection and peace that surpasses all understanding!  We CELEBRATE and LOVE  you, Natalie!

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Jeremiah 29:11 

 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

I am truly enjoying scripture memorization.  To be honest, I have been terrified to try it.  I always told myself I couldn’t do it.  What a lie!  We can remember songs, passwords, birthdays, anniversaries and more.  If we can remember those things surely with the Lord’s help we can plant scripture deep in our hearts.  It is pleasing to Him.  So here is mine for the 15 of February:

1 Peter 4:10
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

That is my prayer right now.  That I discover the gifts that God has given me so  I may serve others, furthering His kingdom and glorifying His name!   This takes some time with Jesus, praying that he reveals the gifts given.  We have to be aware and alert.  We need to have clear minds and eyes to see what is going on in our hearts and lives.  It is a process, but one that I am so excited to be on. 

So what’s your verse for SSMT #4?

Things here have been really, what’s the word, worrisome.  Natalie had a minor complication from surgery that hopefully is working itself out.  She went back to school this week and is loving the attention.  They are so glad to have her back and she is glad to be back.  Being home was getting boring for her. 

I wanted to share a little of what I have been recently going through.  I find it annoying how the evil one uses good things to change our path so that we are not in God’s will.  He has schemes that he continues to use, they haven’t changed over the centuries.  I have been involved in bible studies since Natalie was 6 months old.  She will be 11 next month.  I LOVE bible study.   I love learning and digging into God’s word, sharing life with other women, sharing what Jesus has done in my life and the hope I have in Him.  Well, recently I believed the lie that I was not supposed to be involved in women’s ministry.  I built an idol , I don’t want to go into what it was, but the sad part is it’s a good thing.  I became addicted if you will and really thought that I needed to pursue that road and possibly a career.  Funny thing is that I never consulted God about this new endeavor.  Went a distance down that road in my own strength.  At that time in life I found myself very unsatisfied.  I was aggravated, annoyed, tired, stressed and my my heart just hurt.  Thank goodness I have wonderful friends that speak TRUTH to me and pray for me. 

Natalie had been in extreme pain for quite a while and we couldn’t figure it out.  I was emotionally exhausted and physically drained.  I started focusing on the idol.   I did some research into this new “adventure” and it looked like what I was looking for to fill the void in my mind and heart, but you know that feeling you get, the one that tells you something doesn’t feel right.  Always go with that one.  I started having second thoughts, processed it over and over.  Then, then, the freedom came.  We went to church one Saturday night, I sat in the pew, exhausted, we had 5 or so minutes before service started.  The lights were low, music playing, people hustling around greeting one another, fellowshipping but it felt like it was all slow motion.  I looked down and opened my heart.  I told God how I was exhausted and I needed Him to come.  Fill my soul with Him.  I needed Him desperately.  Suddenly I felt peace, I felt as if someone had taken their hands from around my neck, I could breathe.  I was an empty cup and the hand of Jesus was pouring His living water into me.  The fogged cleared and I realized this was IT…this, church, ministry, is where I get filled.  It became very clear to me that the road I had been looking at (the idol) was a dangerous road, a detour.  I was detoured by lies!  Oh, but sweet Jesus was there, to redirect traffic.  He showed me the right way for my life.  That night in church, freedom.  Freedom from the lies. 

Now, don’t get me wrong.  People have jobs.  I am just telling you my story.  Yes, I have had to pull away from serving in women’s ministry for this season because my family needs me,  but, I will be back, I am confident in that.  Not sure in what area, but I know Jesus knows and that’s all I need to know.  Just need to continue to pray that I follow his road to get to my destination.  We need awesome, godly people in the workforces to share the hope in Jesus, to witness, to be shinning lights for Christ.  Do your job and do it well with Jesus. 

You always have to search for truth and if things aren’t adding up than it’s a lie.  Satan wants to divide us from God.  He will use “good” things as a detour.  Watch out for those huge potholes!   I look forward to serving again but know where I am needed right now.  God has a plan and will for me and for you.  Search to know him. 

I heard this song and immediately thought of my precious girls.  This is what I want them to know in the deepest part of their being!  Claim this truth..

It’s funny, you read someones blog and get a feeling you know them.  I have a few blogs I follow out there in bloggy world getting to peek into someones life, their adventures.  It’s fun, you get ideas, you laugh and sometimes you cry. 

I cried when I read the recent posts on The Simple Wife.  This gal is a mom, homeschooler, wife, friend, sister, daughter and sister in Christ.  Normal is the word that comes to my mind.  About a week ago her 12 year old daughter found her lying beside the treadmill, with it still running, seizing.  She was suffering  a stroke.  Click on the Praying for Joanne button to the right, to read the entire story.  You will need to scroll down to get to the beginning. 

This just broke my heart.  We are never guaranteed anything here on earth.  We live in real time, real world.  We go about our days, sometimes thinking things like this will never happen to us or our family.  Then, it does.  But, but, but…GOD!  God, if we cry out to  Him, reaches down from the heavens and brings people, tons of people to our lives, sometimes people that don’t even know us.  Prayers are lifted up, cards are sent, encouragement given, meals taken, childcare arranged…people are moved to act.   Please click on Joanne’s button and look around.  Pray that whatever God lays on your heart to do, you are obedient.  Don’t let the thinking that you don’t know her play out in your head.  She is a fellow sister in Christ.  Step up, step out and step into action.  

A girlfriend of mine recently started a tween group in her home.  These young gals meet, talk about life, Jesus and just have a good time.  Recently one of the gals, Bizzy, was diagnosed with Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.  Again, broken hearted for this young girl and her family.  Please pray for this 6th grader, yes I typed 6th grader.  Once again, no one is immune to catastrophes in life.  The one thing we are confident in is Christ,  his love for us, his provision for us and his grace.  I pray that Bizzy recovers completely and has a platform to tell others what Jesus did and continues to do in her life.  How awesome is that gonna be and just think of the numbers of young people she will influence for His kingdom. 

Lists, we all make them, we all check things off .  Well, I ask that you add these two prayer requests to your list and DON”T check them off.  Continue to cover them in prayer!

This terrific  idea is on this gals blog.   To see the photo’s click on the blog. 

BLESSING BUNTING TUTORIAL:

Materials: sewing machine, double-sided bias tape, scrapbook paper

Step 1: Type up messages on your computer…I divided my document in two columns and ran four scriptures per page. Make sure to allow room at the top of each flag to attach the bias tape.You can also have people hand write messages on the flags.

Step 2: Cut scrapbook paper into 8.5 x 11 inches. This way you can feed it normally through your printer. I varied how I printed the messages. Some I printed over the patterned side, some on the blank side.

Step 3: Cut out the flags.

Step 4: Arrange the flags in the order that you want them sewn. I alternated which side some of the messages appear. So that if we hung it up mid room, you could read things on both sides. Once you have them in the order that you like, stack them up and set them next the sewing machine.
 Step 5: Place your first flag in between the fold of the bias tape. Using zig-zag stitch, stitch across the flag. Immediately put the next flag in place and continue sewing. Repeat until the end.

You’re done! 

Thought this was a great way to make a cold hospital room more cheery.  You could also cut out material in the shape of flags (like a triangle), provide visitors pens and have them write scriptures, prayers and notes.  Some how sew or stitch-witch them together and there you go..TRUTH decorating and covering a room! 

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” – Colossians 4:2

Hi, its SMT time.  I am really enjoying memorizing scripture.  Okay, so I have only done one but it is very empowering.  I love having God’s word alive in my heart giving me a firm foundation.  Here is my SMT verse for the 15th of the month:

Psalm 105:4  Look to the Lord and his strength, seek his face always  NIV

This verse speaks to me right now because my oldest daughter just had surgery and has another one in a month.  It’s tough when one of you kids go through something like this.  On top of having special needs, she has to endure surgeries.  She is such a strong , brave girl and  I am confident that God blankets  her with safety, comfort and healing.  I want to always look to the Lord for my strength.  This isn’t easy.  I try to do things on my own and it never works out.  I get in the way!   God wants us to rely on him so that we look more like Christ.  I want to seek God’s face in all circumstances so that I am confident and empowered with  truth.   

I have some awesome, loving, caring and fun friends.  They are bringing meals to our family while Natalie recovers and look at this one brought to us today.   Can I just say that it was gooey, yummy and I want the recipe

Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

Natalie and I came home from the hospital early this morning, we had been up all night,  so I laid down to take a nap.  While I was asleep another dear friend called saying she had a sweet treat to deliver, boy did she deliver!!  Look at these beauties

Gourmet Cupcakes

We can’t wait to dig into them.  What a nice surprise to wake too.  I tell you, we have such a fantastic circle of friends.  I am amazed at the love they so willingly, unselfishly give.  Recently we started a Life Group in our home and we are  growing to become terrific friends.  We are doing exactly what God’s word instructs, studying  His word, holding each other accountable, praying for one another and doing life together.  Such a great time of fellowship and growth.  I am also so thankful for all my girlfriends.  They are godly women, seeking Christ and desiring to know Him more.  We encourage, pray and just have fun in life.  Don’t know what I would do without them.  They bless me each and every day. 

I hope you have decided to jump into the SMT.  If so what is your verse for the 15th?  Remember to choose one that speaks to you for where you are in life right now.  It will impact you more and be easier to memorize.

It’s here, are you ready?  A new year.  I am ready for what God has in store.  I assure you  that there will be trials, hard times, joys, fun, growth and change.   The next year holds alot that we don’t know or can’t control but I know the ONE that does and can! 

Are you participating in the SSMT?  Check it out here.  This is my scripture for the 1st.

Psalm 130:5  I will wait on the Lord my soul waits, and in his word I place my hope.

I would love to hear what you are memorizing.  Oh, check out some of the new blogs on the right.  They are some really fun gals.   Have a great Monday!

Tomorrow will be 1-1-11, cool.  New years always bring in new years resolutions.  A few years ago I changed my wording from resolutions to goals.  Resolutions get broken so quickly, we give up on them so easily, and sometimes we just jot some down because that is the thing to do.  Goals on the other hand, in my mind, are something to work for, something to fight for and something to attain.

We recently traveled to my dad’s in Georgia and I had some time to think of this past year.  I ran through the months and boy was it busy!  I also had time to pray and  really think about what worked and what didn’t.  Where did I need to grow and what needed to go?  What areas in me needed to be tended too?  What did I envision 2011 to be?  What changes needed to be made in all areas, spiritual growth, physical, and mental?  What are some new “goals” I need to make?   I really want to take some time in the next day or so to get out a journal and jot down my thoughts. 

I know one thing that I am going to do is memorize scripture.  Some girlfriends and I are going to participate in Beth Moore’s Siesta Scripture Memorization Team.  Check it out!  It is going to be a challenge but it will be fulfilling. 

So what goals or resolutions are you setting?  What do you want 2011 to look like?  I hope and pray you and your families have a safe and prosper New Year!   Talk with you next year…haha!

Christmas Cookie Rules…
       
1. If you eat a holiday cookie fresh out of the oven, it has no calories because everyone knows that the first cookie is the test and thus calorie free.
       
2. If you drink a diet soda after eating your second cookie, it also has no calories because the diet soda cancels out the cookie calories.
       
3. If a friend comes over while you’re making your holiday cookies and needs to sample, you must sample with your friend. Because your friend’s first cookie is calories free, (rule #1) yours is also. It would be rude to let your friend sample alone and, being the friend that you are, that makes your cookie calorie free.
       
4. Any cookie calories consumed while walking around will fall to your feet and eventually fall off as you move. This is due to gravity and the density of the caloric mass.
       
5. Any calories consumed during the frosting of the holiday cookies will be used up because it takes many calories to lick excess frosting from a knife without cutting your tongue.
       
6. Cookies colored red or green have very few calories. Red ones have three and green ones have five – one calorie for each letter. Make more red ones.
       
7. Cookies eaten while watching “Miracle on 34th Street ” have no calories because they are part of the entertainment package and not part of one’s personal fuel.
       
8. As always, cookie pieces contain no calories because the process of breaking causes calorie leakage.
       
9. Any cookies consumed from someone else’s plate have no calories since the calories rightfully belong to the other person and will cling to their plate. We all know how calories like to CLING!
       
10. Any cookies consumed while feeling stressed have no calories because cookies used for medicinal purposes NEVER have calories. It’s a rule!

So go ahead and enjoy those Christmas cookies…we only get them once a year!  Did you make any and if so what kind?

Wanted to share some photo’s of what has been happening in our life.  We have about 1-1.5 inches of snow today and it is still falling!  It is beautiful!!  Life has been busy and we are looking forward to slowing down and enjoying the Christmas season.  We have had birthdays, get togethers, Thanksgiving, baked cookies/candies and decorated the home for Christmas.  I just love this time of year.  All the lights and decor.  Love seeing how others decorate their homes too.  Everyone has a different style and it is neat to see the creativity.  I tend to be more natural/rustic, using lots of berries and pine cones.  What’s your Christmas style?

Marie and Renne at the Girls Morning Out

Karla got a goodie at Girls Morning Out

Phoebe and Morgan (Morgan is only 7 mo. old)

Decorating the window ledge above our front door

Jiffy Pop...lots of fun

Turtle candies

My mom's birthday cake

Mom and David

Ready for snow

First snowfall in our new home

Have a blessed weekend!