Monday, December 31, 2012

What a year 2012 has been!

I would like to say it was all great, but really it wasn't.  I read a friend's blog last night and she recapped the year and told of the joy and stress of different events in their family's life.  I want to do that, but I am having trouble seeing the silver lining.  This morning with the boys we were reading our Veggie Tale Devo and it was all about attitude.  Please Lord help me have a good attitude. 
 
I am currently reading A Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp.  This is a very good book about living fully right where you are.  She has a way of writing that really makes some truths hit home.  One is
 
Pain + Thanks = JOY

" . . . eucharisteo is how Jesus, at the Last Supper, showed us to transfigure all things--take the pain that is given, give thanks for it, and transform it into joy that fulfills all emptiness." (Voskamp)
 
This past year our family has been through a lot: four funerals, two hospital stays, job issues, me working again (part-time), medical issues and so many (it seems to me) have had babies or are pregnant.  I sure thought I was done being upset by birth, but I'm not.
 
I can give thanks in some of the changes our family has experienced, but not all yet.  God is not done with me though and I know that I will reach the point of thankfulness in all.  "... He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;" Philippians 1:6.
 
I know that these momentarily issues of life can not compare to HEAVEN! 
 
 "Therefore we do not lose heart.  Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.  For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen.  For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal."  2 Corinthians 4:16-18.
 
Lord, I pray that You will give me a eternal mindset as I read Your Word and strive to be thankful thus finding JOY.
 
Happy New Year !

Monday, October 22, 2012

Knowledge of right and wrong

Lord,

I pray that Jackson and Jeffrey will be known by their pure and right deeds (Psalm 20:11).  I pray that when they do sin they will not hide it, but confess so You may show them mercy and that I may show them mercy as well (Psalm 28: 13).  I pray that their love will abound more in knowledge and discernment.  That they will know what things are excellent and may be sincere and without offense till the day of Your return Lord (Philippians 1:9-10).  Amen.

Monday, September 24, 2012

Gluten Free chocolate cake

For my birthday earlier this month I made an awesome cake.  The yummy recipe followes.
 
Chocolate Mud Cake

1 cup rice flour (all purpose if not gluten free)

2 teaspoons baking powder

6 tablespoons butter

2 ounces semisweet chocolate (or 1/3 cup chocolate chips)

1 cup sugar (2/3 cup & 1/3 cup, added separately)

3 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup Dutch-processed cocoa ( I used dark)

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup milk

1 egg yolk

1/3 cup brown sugar

11/2 cups hot water

Whipped cream or ice cream

How to make it

1 Coat the inside of a 2 1/2- to 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. (Note: the cake's cooking time and final appearance will vary depending on your crock's size.)

2 Whisk together the flour and baking powder in a medium bowl and set aside. In a large bowl, melt the butter and chocolate in the microwave or over a pan of simmering water and mix well.

3 Whisk in the 2/3 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cocoa, vanilla extract, salt, milk, and egg yolk. Add the flour mixture and stir until thoroughly mixed.

4 Pour the batter into the slow cooker and spread it evenly. In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, cocoa, and hot water until the sugar is dissolved.

5 Pour the mixture over the batter in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the crock pot.

6 Even when done, the cake will be very moist and floating on a layer of molten chocolate, but you'll know it's ready when nearly all of the cake is set and the edges begin to pull away from the sides of the pot. (As you check, try not to let the condensed steam from the lid drip onto the cake.)

7 When it's done, turn off the power and remove the lid. Let it cool for 25 minutes, then serve it in bowls topped with whipped cream or ice cream. Makes 6 to 8 servings

Baptism

Jackson, our 7 yr. old, will be baptised at the end of October.  This past summer as we were driving to VBS one morning (June 15th) and the boys and I were singing along to a kid's Bible CD.  The song was about being, happy, loved and saved.  As we sang S-A-V-E-D Jeffrey asked what does that spell.  I said saved and Jackson said o yeah I am.  I said, really?  Jackson said yeah I prayed last night in bed and ask Jesus to live in my heart.  I began to ask him questions and then realized I was going the wrong way.  I then decide to wait to talk with Jackson till we got to church.  At church Jackson and I talked about what it means to be a Christian and to be saved.  I made sure Jackson understood that Jesus was God's Son who came to earth, had no sin (bad things) and died on the cross to pay for our bad things. And that by asking Jesus to live in his heart he was telling Jesus that he would follow God's Word, the Bible.  None of this was new to Jackson, because we talk about it all the time at home.  He said, why do we have to talk that's why I didn't want to tell you.  Oops, I was talking way to much for a 6 yr. old and a male, ha ha:)  We prayed together and then he went on to his class.  I told several other adults at church that day.  They each said something to Jackson that day during VBS.  When we got home he was not happy I told everyone.  He did tell Josh that evening, but he didn't want me to say anything to anyone else.  So, I haven't till now.  A couple of weeks ago Jackson and I were driving in the van once again, he likes to talk in the van, and he said he wanted to be baptised.  So we talked about what baptism is and why we do it.  God commands us to be baptised as a way to show others what we believe, but baptism doesn't save us.  Our faith and belief in Jesus does.  He is now ready to let everyone know what he believes and I also think he is maturing and getting more comfortable with attention and talking to adults. 
 
What do you believe?  Do you have faith in God?  Not sure, why don't you read God's Word.  Start in the book of John, the 4th book of the new testament.  You will learn a lot about Jesus and how he wants to have a relationship with you. 

Tortilla Soup

About a month ago I made tortilla soup and it frozen beautifully.  So I will be having it for lunch today as I am home sick from preschool.  Here is the recipe:
 Homemade Tortilla Soup
4 cups homemade chicken broth
8 cherry tomatoes, halved or can of diced tomatoes or whatever you have on hand
1 zucchini, sliced
1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
1/2 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 large garlic clove, peeled and chopped
1 1/2 cups chicken breast meat, cooked and shredded
1/2 cup whole kernel corn
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped or 2 T. dried
Throw everything in a large pot.  Bring to a boil then reduced heat to a simmer.  Simmer for at least 30mins. or hours. 
Serve with tortilla chips, sour cream, cheese, avocado, etc.
Before I made this soup I looked at many recipes online and then picked and choose what I liked.  I didn't even follow the recipe I came up with to a " T."  For example I didn't have green bell pepper, but I had red.  So use what you have and I am sure it will turn out great. 
 

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Two years

August 26, 2010 was Jamie's due date.  It has been two years.  Sometimes it feel like it was just yesterday and sometimes it feels like it has been many, many years.  I forgot what today was until I read an email from a dear friend saying she was praying for me.  I'm not sure how that makes me feel.  On one hand it is sad, but then it means I have been living in the present.  Yesterday was the boys birthday party and tomorrow is the first day of school so I have been a little busy.  I will not let myself get down because I forgot the date.  I have not and will never forget Jamie. 

Friday, August 10, 2012

Frustrated

As you know I was in the hospital at the end of May.  At that time I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.  That being, when I was release I immediately began researching colitis.  I read a lot online (there are some crazy people out there with GI issues) and purchased a recommended book to read as well.  The first week of July I had a colonoscopy.  Before I left the nurse told me that nothing was seen that needed to be biopsied and to follow up with Dr. A in four weeks.  So on Monday I had my follow up visit.  Dr. A told me that I do not have ulcerative colitis!  That's great, but I still am having problems so now what?  We discussed what was going on with my body and he decide to test me for Celiac disease, which means my body does not response well to gluten.  I am still awaiting those results, but have already began researching Celiac disease and changing my diet.  My next appointment is the first of September.  What is so frustrating is the month wait in between every appointment.  Hospital stay and research, 4 weeks later colonoscopy more research and change diet, 4 weeks later Dr. visit new research change diet again, and in 4 weeks I will see Dr. A again.  I am ready for a correct diagnoses!

Underwear Day!

Jeffrey is on his second underwear day of the week.  He runs around all day in his Toy Story underwear and it is just so cute. He won't let me take a pic so picture Jeffrey's smile, blonde hair flying (b/c he is always running or skipping) summer tan lines and little boy underwear.  It makes my heart smile.  I want to capture this memory and hold on to it because I know this stage will be gone soon.  Jeffrey will be five in a couple of weeks.  He has already started acting "5" but today he is "4" and I will enjoy it.  I am reminded of the verse in Ephesians that says, ". . .making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."  It is the end of summer, the boys are bored and my patiences are gone, but today I choose to make the most of the time we have together.

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Check Up

This morning Liz and Matt take Jesse on her first outing to the doctor.  Jesse is doing great and has not gained or lost any weight since coming home.  Both Liz and Matt felt good after taking with the doctor and having some of their questioned answered. 

Liz also saw her doctor and had her staples removed from the c section.  The removal went fine, but her blood pressure is high.  Please pray that it will go down as high blood pressure can cause seizures, which she has had in the past. 

Both Liz and Jesse are napping now.  Now for what you really want to see the pics.

Just arrived home from hospital on Sunday.


Sleeping peacfully:)
Even Aunt Suzanne's vacuming didn't wake me up.

nursey

Monday, July 30, 2012

Jesse Elizabeth Urban

Jesse Elizabeth Urban was born July 26, 2012 at 10:41 am.  She is 7 1/2 lbs and is 19 1/2 inches long. 




Jackson just had the best time holding his new cousin. 

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Aunt Suzanne

Later today my sister will have her first child.  She is being induced as I type.  I am excited and nervous all at the same time.  It will be fun to play the aunt role, but hard not to have a little one of my own to hold and care for.  Please pray that all goes well with baby and mom today.  I will post photos in a couple of days:)

Friday, July 6, 2012

Colonscopy

I had my 1st ever colonscopy earlier today.  The prep was no fun at all.  The stuff you have to drink is the worst.  I didn't actually drink it all, shh don't tell.  The good news is my colon looks fine.  The bad news is that we don't know why I have had problems.  In four weeks I will go see my GI doctor and hopefully figure out what is causing the problem.  My guess is food.  I just hope it is not chocolate:)

This week I have been very aware of the simple things I have like clean water and food.  Earlier this week as I was taking my second shower for the day I realized that many people in the world do not have clean water and here I am taking a long second shower.  On Thursday I was on a clear liquid diet in prep for the colonscopy today.  I could have water, tea, broth, jello etc.  It was pretty hard when I was fixing things for the boys and could not have any solid food.  Off handedly as we were having lunch at the pool with friends I said surly I could go one day with out food there are staving people in the world.  We have so much here in American compared to other countries and we don't even think twice about it must days--at least I don't.  Even here in American there are thousands must likely more I don't know the numbers that have no ideal were there next meal will come from.  I feel like God has placed this on my heart this week to do something.  I just don't know what yet.  I will let y'all know when the Holy Spirit reveals it to me because I will need your prayers and help I'm sure.

Happy Belated 4th of July!

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Give It A Try

One of the things I wanted to try this year was homemade powdered dishwasher detergent.  Well, I tried making it twice and did not like it.  The detergent cleaned the dishes fine, was cheap and better for the environment than store brought detergent, but it clomped together and was very difficult to break apart to use.  Maybe I will try a homemade liquid detergent next.

I also recently made homemade sunscreen.  It was easy to make, smelt great and covered well.  However, I got burned pretty good when we used it.  I have switched back to store brought spray sunsceen.  The boys like the spray so much better.  I still may try making it again with a different recipe or look to buy a healthier sunscreen.  Through my research online I have found that many of the ingredients in sunsceen are unhealthy and can cause cancer.  The number of skin cancer cases actually went up when sunscreen was developed. 

Over the past 8 months or so I have tried two homemade deodorants.   They both have worked well.  Now these are not an antiperspirant so you will sweat.

Recipe #1

5-6 Tbsp Coconut oil
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup cornstarch
In a glass bowl or measuring cup melt coconut oil in microwave.  Stir in baking soda and cornstarch.  Pour into an old cleaned out deodorant container.  Let set in fridge overnight to harden. 

**Note:  This is a winter time deodorant.  Coconut oil is solid only at temps below 76 degrees so once May comes around here in South Texas you may want to use something else to avoid the mess.

Recipe #2
Pour rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle.  Spray on arm pits.  The alcohol kills the bacteria that causes the smell. 

I will continue to share with y'all the new things I try.  If you have tried anything new please let me know how it worked.  I would love to give it a try.

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Ulcerative Colitis

I was in the hospital recently.  I have been diagnosed with ulerative colitis.  This is inflammation(irriation and swelling) that occurs in the rectum and colon.  It is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).  No one knows what causes IBD, but the symptoms can be treated. 

Here is the whole story if you have a weak stomach you may what to stop reading NOW!

Last Thursday, May 17 I had a little diarrhea in the morning, but was fine by lunch.  I thought I must have a little touch of some bug

Friday, May 18 I subbed at the preschool and had a good day.  I had an uneasy feeling in my tummy and one lose stool, but was ok.  That evening I began to feel worse.

Saturday, May 19 1am.  I had lots of diarrhea all through the early morning hours.  Josh and the boys go to visit Grandma and Papa Stoneham leaving me at home with a "bug."  By lunch time I was in pain and passing blood with the diarrhea.  Josh leaves the boys with his parents and comes home and takes me to a free standing ER.  I had called my doctor and the on call doctor told us to do just that.  At the ER I am given pain meds, a rectal exam (not has bad as I thought it would be, but not fun),bloodwork and a CT scan.  The CT scan showed extensive inflammatory wall thickening/edema of the colon from the cecum through the descending colon.  So, I was sent home with four prescriptions and a GI doctor to follow up with in a few weeks.

Sunday, May 20 2am.  I am in so much pain that Josh takes me back to the freestanding ER.  They give me pain meds and then transfer me to the hospital.  My first amblaunce ride.  At the hospital I am given IV fluids, antiobotics and pain meds.  More bloodwork is done, my urian and stool are tested.  I am diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and released on Tuesday, May 22 in the afternoon. 

This is the worst physical pain I have had.  The pain is gone now, but not the diarrhea.  I am weak, tired and have been in bed since coming home.  I just read that the diarrhea can last up to 8 days--almost there:)  Pray that God will heal me quickly.  I feel like I am missing out on so much with my family.  Jeffrey's last day of preschool was yesterday and I didn't get to take him:(  And today was support to be his first day of summer and he was going to get to choose what we did all day.  A jammie day, movie, park, whatever he wanted.  But it's ok we have all summer and thanks to amazing friends Jeffrey and Jackson have been taken care of and are having tons of fun with there friends.

So, I find myself today asking God "what is the lesson I am supports to be learning from this sickness?  And help me see is NOW so we can move on." 

What I have learned/been reminded of:
1. I have an awesome family and wonderful friends who care for me and my family.
2.  Josh (my hubby) is the BEST!   He has taken care of everything while still working and he has been much nicer to me than I would be if the rolls were reversed.
3.  It is hard beening a wife and mom.  I struggle daily with different areas of wife/motherhood.  I must remember what it is like to miss out on daily family life and enjoy all the moments we have together.

All I really want to do is play with the boys, cook dinner, and sit on the porch swing with Josh!

Bedtime Talks

Last night as I was saying goodnight to Jeffrey:

Jeffrey: it looks like you are growing a baby in your tummy.
Me:  I know, but I'm not remember mommy has colitis and I have a lot of gas in my tummy and I have to burp it out.
Jeffrey laughs:)
Jeffrey: I wish we could grow a baby.
Me: Talk to God about that.
Jeffrey laughing: God can't put a baby in you tummy from way up there.
Me: Really b/c that's how it works.
Jeffrey: Mommy when you sleep He comes down and puts the baby in your tummy.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

2nd Anniversary

Yesterday, May 7, was the 2nd anniversary of Jamie's delivery.  May 18 will be the anniversary of the funeral and the 19th  of the burial.  

I am doing fine now, but last week was not so good.  I think the anticipation of the day is worst than the actual day in itself.  I was surprised how upset and emotional I have been, but Josh was not at all.  I guess he knows me better than I know myself.  

Mother's Day is a hard day because two years ago it was just days after I delivered Jamie and I was still in the hospital.  Josh said he just wants me to be happy with the boys and him and excited to open whatever they get me.  I have been showing Jeffrey different items as we have been out so hopefully he will remember:)  I am happy and will be happy and joyful on Mother's Day, but I will always have in the back of my mind the three Stoneham babies in heaven.  

Friday, May 4, 2012

Lost Donkeys

This week I have been reading in 1 Samuel.  If you start in chapter 9 you can read about how Saul became King of Israel.  Saul's father, Kish, sent him to look for two lost donkeys and he came back a king.  Of course there is more to the story it is pretty interesting you should check it out.  It made me ask the Lord, "what do You want me to become?"  My heavenly father has placed me here at this time to be a wife, mom, friend, teacher, etc.  What will I be when the task is complete?  The donkeys Saul went looking for were found and that could have been it, but Saul allowed the experiences his journey offered to change him.  One day when my tasks here are done I hope to be more than I am today.  When I stand before the throne of God I want Him to see a reflection of His Son.  

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Hairy

This is our dog Spaze.



And this is why he stays outside!

 The above photo is one of our compost buckets with all the hair I brushed off Spaze this morning.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Spiritual Warfare

Do you believe in spiritual warfare?  Many people struggle with the concept of angels and demons in the unseen realm.  I believe and have felt the present or affect of angels and demons at different point in my life.  This past Monday is one such time.  The boys were at school and Josh was at work.  I had cleaned the house and then set down to check email and blog.  I got my email checked and then began to blog.  I felt a little lite headed, but kept blogging.  I then stopped to go to the bathroom.  TMI coming up:)  As I was on the toilet I felt very lite headed and thought I might pass out.  So I stayed seated to let this feeling pass.  I then woke up on the floor (pants still down--weird feeling).  I was able to get to the phone and call Josh and he came home to take care of me.  When I fell I hit the step stool we have for Jeffrey.  I have a scratched, swollen,  and busied eye.  Don't worry--I am fine and have a doctor's appointment.  Why is this spiritual warfare?  I was blogging about the movie October Baby and Satan does not want people to see it.  But you must see it.  It is a movie about the sanctity of life.  It gets the point across with entertainment and without be judgemental to those who may not have chosen life.  So is there a medical reason I passed out?  Must likely, but Satan can use our health to try and stop the spread of Truth.  Don't let Satan stop you today.  Fight against him with truth from God's Word.  Pray and ask God to protect you physically and mentally from Satan's attacks.  My God is Mighty and if I ask Him He will give me the strength to overcome Satan's attacks.

Read more about October Baby at http://www.octoberbabymovie.net/.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

The absence of truth is a lie.

Shower Cleaner

As, many of you know I have been using homemade cleaners for some time now.  The only non homemade cleaner I use is Scrubbing bubbles for our shower (tile and glass).  However, I still wasn't happy with the shower.  I have tried different products and none get the hard water and soap scrum off the glass.  Today, I cleaned house.  Side note the boys helped a lot, which was so nice:)  For the shower I used a 1:1 ratio of Dawn and white vinegar in a spray bottle.  Just spray it on let sit for a few minutes ( I cleaned the sinks as I waited), wipe with a wet cloth, sponge, etc. and rinse with water.  It is amazing how good the glass looks!  Now this is not really homemade or all natural, but I feel better about it than a chemical cleaner and it worked so well. 

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

A full life

Sunday night in my sadness I turned to God's Word.  I opened up my Bible and this is what I read.

"After this Job lived one hundred and forty years, and saw his children and grandchildren for four generations.  So Job died, old and full of days."                                     Job 42:16-17

Thank you Lord, that Granddaddy lived a full life and saw his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren often. 

Lent

I attended to post this before Lent began, but life has a way of changing our plans. 

This year I wanted to include the boys (6yrs & 4yrs.) more in our observance of Lent.  I searched other blogs and liked what another mom is doing with her young children. 

Each day of Lent we are praying, fasting, and giving.  I made a spreadsheet of all the days of Lent and what we do each day.  Each day we pray for something or someone different.  For example on Sunday we prayed for parents, Monday grandparents, Tuesday aunts and uncles, etc.  Since fasting from one thing would be difficult for young children the boys are fasting from something different each day.  For example on Sunday no radio or Cd's, Monday a favorite toy, Tuesday complaining, etc.  Then for our giving we have an old jelly jar that we put coins in each day.  The number of coins is determined by a item count.  For example on Sunday the boys counted how many doors are in the house, Monday was windows, Tuesday was chairs, etc. 

This has been a great way to talk about what Lent is and why we observe it before Easter.  When Jeffrey wanted to play with his red playground ball on Monday we were able to talk about scarifies and all Jesus has done for us. 

I would love to know what you and your family do during the Lent Season.

Silent Night

Granddaddy past away this past Sunday afternoon (Feb. 26, 2012).  I have had problems posting so I haven't been able to keep y'all updated.  The short version is that he just couldn't recover from the heart surgery.

Granddaddy is now in heaven pain free and playing with Jamie ( go back to the first posts to learn about Jamie) as he sings praises to God.

A lot of the family was together Sunday evening and I learned that one of Granddaddy's favorite songs is Silent Night.  For the past four years we have sang Silent Night at bedtime.  It is also Jackson's favorite song.  Last night I told Jackson that his favorite song was also Granddaddy's.  Jackson said, "that will help me remember him."  Jeffrey then told us that his favorite song was Who let the dogs out and if Spaze (our dog) ever died the song would help him remember Spaze.  Jeffrey has a way of always making us laugh no matter how sad we are at the time.

Please keep our family in your prayers and for all who will be traveling to the services on Friday.

Friday, February 17, 2012

No Poo Hair Cleansing

I have not shampooed my hair at all this year!! 

Yes, you read that right.  New Year's Eve 2011 I decided why not try the no "poo" hair cleansing method starting Jan. 1, 2012. 

Instead of shampoo I use 1 heaping tablespoon of baking soda mixed with ~8oz of water.  Instead of conditioner I use 2 tablespoons of lemon juice mixed with ~8oz of water.  You can google this and find many different ways of doing this.  What I do is put the baking soda and lemon juice into two separate coffee mugs and head to the shower.  I fill the baking soda mug up with water and pour over my head making sure to get around my hair line.  I then let it sit as I wash my body.  Then using my fingertips I scrub my head and rinse.  Next, I fill the lemon juice mug up with water and pour on the ends of my hair.  Do not pour on top of your head it will cause oily hair.  I let the lemon juice do its work as I let the hot water run over me.  I love HOT showers!  Rinse and your done. 

Now, if you choose to try this method know that you will have some very bad hair days as your hair adjust.  Store bought shampoos strip the natural oils from you hair causing your hair to produce more oil, thus causing you to feel the need to shampoo more often.  It is an endless cycle.  The baking soda doesn't strip your hair's oil it just cleanses.  The second week was my worst week.  So, I just wore a pony tail or braid.  Some people use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for conditioning.  I tried both and the vinegars left my hair dry.  Lemon juice works best for me.  Your hair type of water type will determine what and how much you use. 

Why no "poo?"  Have you read the ingredients on your shampoo bottle?  I tried and couldn't.  Our skin is our biggest organ, which has many pores.  I don't like the ideal of putting unknown ingredients on or in my body.  Maybe you are a scientist and know what those ingredients are and feel fine about using them.  Great, but I will stick with baking soda and lemon juice. 

Overflowing Blessing

The Resolution for Women

Part I: Surprisingly Satisfied
Overflowing Blessing

When you consider your level of willingness to give of yourself, does it reveal more contentment or discontentment residing in your heart?  In what way?
My heart reveals more contentment because I do give of myself daily.  Am I always happy about it?  No, but I understand and believe that true contentment comes from a life of service.

Based on God's provisions that you listed at the end of the last chapter, what is one thing you could close this book and go do for someone else out of that resource?
I can babysit for others.  I can organize or scrapbook photos for others (Momma, I am working on yours:)).

Record your thoughts regarding this statement: "Sometimes the best, most empowering word you can learn to utter is no."
In our fast pace, be involved in everything world it is hard to say no.  And I think women have an extra hard time saying no compared to men.  This reminds me of a passage in Psalm.  It says something like those who labor without the Lord labor in vain.  God is not calling us to be supermoms and wives doing it all.  He calls us to love and give of ourselves while remembering what is important: our relationship with Christ and our families. 

Thursday, February 16, 2012

The Secret

The Resolution for Women

Part I: This is who I am
Surprisingly Satisfied
The Secret (pg. 17-22)

A woman of contentment is aware of her needs and what God has already supplied to meet them.  Begin your journey to contentment by making a list.  Label one side "My Needs."  Label the other "God's Provision." Then match up your needs with the way God is currently meeting them.  Place your list in a handy place for the times you are tempted to lean toward dissatisfaction.
My Needs                                                  God's Provision
love                                                            family/friends
food, clothes & shelter                                Josh's job
purpose                                                      wife, mom, volunteer
physical activity                                           time, equipment, local trails
alone time                                                   supportive husband
dates with hubby                                         grandparents close
hobbies: reading, scrap booking, cooking      money and time

What might God be trying to grow in your character or cement in your relationship with Him by keeping you separated from some of the things you want but don't yet have?
There are three big things that I want.  I am not ready to share that them with the world.  I believe God is trying to teach me His perfect timing.

Granddaddy Update

Grandaddy's bypass surgery went well.  He was having lots of bleeding from the heart drainage tubes. However, as of yesterday the bleeding had stopped.  They did give him 2 units of blood to replace what he lost.  He should have been taken off the balloon pump and ventilator today, but I haven't heard.  Please keep praying for a full recovery.

Monday, February 13, 2012

Jeffrey came yesterday (sunday) about 1:30pm.  He is doing just fine.


My Granddaddy (father's dad) who is 81 is having open heart surgery in the morning at 7am and the doctor said there is a good change he want make it.  So, please pray!!!!

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Good Night

Jeffrey had a good night.  He slept for about 9 hours straight through breathing treatments and all.  He did just fine having treatments every 4 hours.  Jeffrey did vomit once in the night, but a lot of mucus came up so that is good.  At 5am his O2 state was 98 and his heart rate was 102--all very good.  So now we wait to see the doctor and hopefully go home today.  Thanks for all your prayers--God hears us!

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Jeffrey Update

O2 stat and heart rate are staying about the same.  We are going to try and go 4 hrs. between breathing treatments tonight.  Pray it goes well.  If Jeffrey can get to 4 hrs. we can go home and do breathing treatments. 

As, we were reading books earlier tonight I read the word peaceful.  Jeffrey asked what peaceful meant.  I told him and he started to cry and said it was not peaceful here and he wanted to go home.  Pray that Jeffrey will feel God's peace tonight and sleep well.  The poor little guy is so tired.  He is sleeping now, but they will be in at 11pm for the next breathing treatment.

Also, pray for Jackson.  It is hard on him to not have mommy at home and having so much attention focused on Jeffrey. 

Jeffrey's Hospital Stay

Friday morning about 3:30am Jeffrey woke up with breathing difficulty.  He was wheezing and coughing up mucus.  Josh and Jeffrey sit in a steam shower and it help a little bit.  We debated about going to the ER, but choose not to after Jeffrey fell back to sleep.  Jeffrey and I were up and down a lot that morning and I don't think I slept much because I was just watching Jeffrey breath.  Later Josh heads to work, Jackson to school and Jeffrey and I to the doctor.  When we were called  back to the room the nurse took one look at Jeffrey and said just a minute.  He walked out of the room across the hall and got Dr. M from another room.  It was all hurried and a little scary.  Jeffrey was started on a breathing treatment and given steroids.  Dr. M said they were trying to stabilizes him so I could take him to the ER by personal vehicle instead of ambulance.  After two breathing treatments Jeffrey's O2 stat was about 94 so we headed to the ER.  Once at the ER Jeffrey had two more breathing treatments, Tylenol and Motrin for his 101 fever, O2, and a chest x-ray.  The x-ray showed clear lungs--YEAH!  But we would still be staying the night.  Jeffrey had bronchialitis.  By late afternoon Jeffrey was doing so much better.  We had a friend bring him a special treat--a corn dog, Tatar tots and a slush.  He was playing and talking.  When we finally got up to a room Jeffrey was switched to a puffer.  Into the night though his breathing became more labored and he was switched back to breathing treatments at two hour intervals.  At some point during the night Jeffrey pulled out his nasal O2 tube and did fine-YEAH!  Currently, Jeffrey is having breath treatments every three hours.  We have to get to every four to go home--mostly likely tomorrow.  Dr. G believes he has asthma, but Dr. M, our reg. doctor, will have to determine that in a couple of weeks. 

Please pray!  Excuse the typos and such I haven't slept much since Thursday night.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Every Bit Counts

The dicussion begans.  If you are reading The Resolution for Women along with me great if not please read through the questions and join in the discussion anyway.

The Resolution for Women


Part I: This is who I am.

Surprisingly Satisfied—A resolution to be content

Every Bit Counts

Carefully consider what the Bible says about contentment.

1 Timothy 6:6-10

If you go back and read the first of chapter 6 Paul is saying to stay away from those who argue, who envy, have corrupt minds and view godliness as a mean for personal gain. Then in vs. 6 he says, “now godliness with contentment is great gain” (NKJV). So, what can one gain? First let’s define contentment. Webster online says contentment is “the quality or state of being contented.” Webster says contented is “feeling or showing satisfaction with one's possessions, status, or situation.” I do not think I feel satisfaction with my current situation. I know what I have going for me is great, but I am always thinking about how things would be better if _____ was different. If I was content I would gain a thankful heart, the ability to receive more from this time in my life and the mind set to give of myself more. Verse 8 goes on to say we should be content when our basic needs are meet. I don’t know about you, but I want more than food, water and shelter. I desire purpose. I don’t think the desire or need for more is wrong. I think the question we have to ask ourselves is why do I want _______. Is it for personal gain and glory or to reach others for Christ. Verse 7, 9, & 10 talk about “stuff” and money. I don’t struggle with wanting the newest and best of things, but I do catch myself thinking if we had more $$ we could do more for others. However, I know God has blessed our family with a lot and I have plenty of resources, time and talents to give---I may just need to get a little creative.

Hebrew 13:5

This verse reminds me of what I say to the boys all the time, “you get what you get and you don’t throw a fit.” I need to say that to myself.

What have you been hurrying through?

I feel like we are always in a hurry. It would help if I actually got out of bed when my alarm goes off. But that’s not the hurrying we are talking about here. I hurry through the boys’ bedtime routine. I hurry through prayers and singing so they can get them to sleep and I can do whatever it is I feel is so important, but in reality the boys’ bedtime routine should be top on my list. The nights I’m not in a hurry have been great--snuggles from Jeffrey and deep talks (for a six year old) with Jackson.

What have you been hurrying to get to?

This is odd to me, but I feel like I am in a hurry to get through this season of life where the boys are so depended on me. The days are long when all you hear is Mommy I need, Mommy I want, Mommy help me, Mommy he did ____, Mommy, Mommy, Mommy. The odd part is that I desire to have more children which would keep me in this season longer.

What are some of the good parts of your experience that you’ve missed in your attempt to rush through the more difficult ones?

I know I have missed out on good things because of my hurrying, but I can’t recall what it was or maybe I haven’t realized what I missed yet.

What can you do differently today to “scrape the plate”---to gather up all the good things around you and begin enjoying the journey of your life?

Well, since I read this last night and am doing the questions tonight I can tell you what I did earlier today. I flew kites with Jeffrey and one of his friends. Now I play with the boys and their friends all the time, but in my head I usually can’t wait for the game or activity to be over. Because let’s be honest 4 yr. olds games can be mind numbing. Today, however, I chose to see the joy in Jeffrey’s excitement as he got his kite high in the air. I chose to be thankful for the sunshiny day, the wind and the time to fly kites.

The Resolution for Women

Last month our Sunday School class got together and watched the movie Courageous.  If you haven't seen it rent it from redbox it is very good.  I was either laughing or crying the whole time.  The movie is about a group of men, husbands and fathers, that decide to make a resolution to live by God's Word. 

Yesterday, Jeffrey and I were at the library and I just happen to look at the new arrivals and saw The Resolution for Women by Priscilla Shirer.  So, I checked it out and began reading it last night. 

This morning as I was on my run a thought pops in my head about having a book discussion group about this book.  I then began to think about when would be a good time to start something like that and I had many reason to say not now.  Then the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart and I recalled what I had just read from the book last night.  Be content in the season of life you are currently in, live in this season and stop focusing on the next. 

Thus, I am going to be reading The Resolution for Women and posting my thoughts and answers to the discussion questions.  I encourage you to join me in this book study and pray that we all will grow in our relationship with Christ.


I would love to be able to meet with each of you and talk about what we are learning, but since my season of life doesn't have a lot of extra time right now I will utilizes the Internet.  I do not have a plan on how fast I will go through each part or how often I will post.  So just keep checking back and keep reading.  I really want you to share what you learn so I can learn from you so leave a comment.  If you receive an email of each of my post please go to my blog and leave a comment so that others can read them as well.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

SMILES

Things that have made me SMILE today:

1. Jeffrey's excitement about chocolate chip pancakes
2. Volunteering at school and seeing Jackson (Today is the 100th day of kinder)
3. Left over fajitas for lunch (Thanks Josh for grilling the yummy meat)
4. Flip flops in Feb.
5. House cleaned (Mon) laundry done (Tues) which means I sat and had hot tea and read this morning after getting the boys off to school.
AND THE BEST FOR LAST
6. God's Word--I have been reading the Psalms of Ascent (Ps. 120-134) love how they tell a story of so many years ago and still speak to me right now.

Monday, January 30, 2012

Singing!

This morning I was in the kitchen preparing breakfast for the boys when I heard some happy little voices.  I assumed that Jackson and Jeffrey were playing instead of getting ready for school.  I walked down the hall getting ready to firmly (aka yell--I'm working on that) remind the boys of one of our morning rules "no playing till everything is done."  As I walked into Jeffrey's room I heard him singing, "I'm so happy so very happy I have the love Jesus in my heart" while making his bed.  By the way he does great for a 4yr. old with a queen size bed.  I quickly backed out of his room and just listened for a minute in the hall.  What an excellent reminder it was to hear Jeffrey sing this morning.  So often I complain as I go about doing the every day things that have to be done over and over again.  But I should be happy and singing because I do have the love of Jesus in my heart.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Why Homemade?

Besides that it is super fun to make homemade products there are several reasons I choose homemade.
1. Better for my family--I know exactly what is in the food or product I make.
2. Better for the environment
3. Usually but not always cheaper

Here is what I have made in the last couple of weeks.

Whole Wheat Bread recipe can be found at http://tammysrecipes.com/homemade_wheat_bread.  We all really like the bread and it is very close to store bought sandwich bread.  Now I know exactly what is in the bread my family eats and no plastic bag and twisty tie to throw away.

Deodorant--I will give you the recipe only after we see if it works.

Dishwasher detergent--so far it is working well, but will let y'all know after several weeks.

Bath salts--I am giving this to a friend so I will let y'all know what she thinks.

Breakfast tacos--I made these tacos to place in the freezer and then Josh can just grap one to go each morning.  After making the tortillas I filled them with scrambled eggs and cheese.  I wrapped each taco in a paper towel and then foil.  The foil allows them to be frozen and the paper towel allows them to be place in the microwave (remove foil first).

Flour tortillas
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup vegetable shortening
1/2 cup warm water

Combine flour and salt in medium bowl.  Use a fork to rub shortening into flour.  Stir in water until dough forms.  Knead dough on floured surface 2 to 3 minutes until smooth and elastic.  Cover and let stand 30 minutes at room temperature.  Knead dough a few times. Divide evenly into 8 pieces for 10 inch or 12 pieces for 12 inch tortillas.  Shape pieces into balls; cover with cloth to keep from drying out.  Using rolling pin, roll out each dough ball on floured surface, turning over frequently, into circles.  Heat ungreased heavy griddle or skillet over medium-high heat until a little water sprinkled on surface sizzles.  I like to use my electric griddle and cook 6 tortillas at a time.  Cook about 30 seconds until top is bubbly and bottom is flecked with brown spots.  Turn tortillas over; cook 20 seconds until flecked with brown spots.  If tortilla puffs up while second side is cooking, press it down gently with spatula.  Remove tortilla to foil. 

Friday, January 6, 2012

Stewardship Review

Months ago, maybe even close to a year, I decide that I wanted to be a better steward of all that God has given me.  One of the main ways has been to work towards a waste free life.  So I have tried to not waste time, money and the environment.  I haven't done so well with not wasting time.  I did OK with the money and really did a lot this past year to improve our families affect on the environment.  We now only put out the trash once a month instead of twice a week.  We compost all food scarps (no meat), grass clippings, leaves, etc.  We all have lunch kits and use reusable container instead of baggies.  We have cut down on our water by using "gray" water for the plants.  For example if I soak a pot I would water a plant with that water instead of just pouring it down the drain.  We also have a pitcher to pour water in that someone didn't finish.  I take my shopping bags to the store and remember to take them in most of the time.  I make a lot of stuff from scratch now including cleaners and food.  I have also tried to use what we have instead of buy more stuff.  For example I did not buy an wrapping paper, bows, ribbon or bags this year for Christmas.  I used bags and tissue paper from last year and the boys made wrapping paper.  We had left over paper and paint supplies from a paint party and so the boys and the neighbors kiddos had a fun afternoon painting and I got some wrapping paper.

Things I tried and didn't like:
1. homemade mustard
2. homemade ketchup
3. cotton cloth with safety pins instead of dryer sheets
4. homemade shampoo

Things I tried and liked:
1. homemade mayo
2. homemade Italian  & ranch dressing
3. homemade oreos
4. homemade soft scrub & glass cleaner
5. 7th generation compostable dryer sheets
6. homemade hummus
7. dive cup (ladies google this, I got my from amazon)
8. homemade taco season, spaghetti season, onion soup mix
9. homemade face cleaner
10. hankies (no more tissues)

What I want to try in 2012:
1. homemade lotion
2. homemade deodorant
3. homemade hamburger buns
4. homemade pita bread and chips
5. buying resale instead of new (this one will be hard)
6. no "poo" hair cleaning method
7. homemade sunscreen & bug spray/lotion

I will let y'all now how all these new things turn out once I try them.