Blessings

May your weekend be Blessed.
"The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. The will take great delight in you, he will
quiet you wiht his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17

Faith & Fruit on Friday

The faith of a child. At the end of the year I began to think about the goals that I wanted to work on for this year. I wrote a post here. Some of those things were ministry related some where not.

One of the things that I didn't put on my list at the time was something I have been thinking about for awhile. I wasn't able to really put it into words so I left it off the list.

But I have been thinking about how God wants to use me and this blog to be an encouragement. And how beyond this medium how I can be an encouragement to others. To people I come in contact with everyday. Of course family members top the list. But beyond that people others that I either associate with through work/ministry, neighbors, even people at church.

In the neighbor category I fail miserably. I thought when we first moved her about how nice it would be to invite some neighbors over and maybe host a Bible Study or something to share our faith with them. And I did fail miserably. I have one neighbor just right across the fence that I only began talking to a few months ago. I didn't take her anything at Christmas. Although I thought about it. But just never got around to it.

One of the reasons that I failed with meeting the other neighbors I have come to realize is pride.

And just the last few days the subject of pride has really hit home with me. You see I don't post a lot of photo's of my house. The inside or even of the outside. Because of pride.

This isn't so much because I think someone elses house pretty although most are. In fact the way my house is decorated and the things I have I guess I am a little prideful there too. But I am really talking more about the way it looks. I don't want anyone coming in because it isn't perfect. Actually it is so far from perfect that I am just ridiculous about it.

The main problem is we just don't have time. We don't take the time to take care of the house. I think we tend to blame that on ministry or use that as an excuse. We work extremely long hours. And actually what we do is very emotionally draining. But that really isn't so much the reason.

I think these are the reasons:

energy

laziness

disorganization

blogging (dang I really didn't want to put that one there)

And because of the above and because they cause me to not keep my house the way I should I don't invite people over.

Because of the disorganization and blogging I don't take the time to sit and write a note to someone. I think about it and then I can't find the cards. Or I am reading a blog and I see a comment and am lured away and then it is time to cook or go to bed.

And so I have decided that I am making a fresh start. I don't know how long I'll be able to keep it up but on Friday's(I'll start going back the food bank soon and begin sewing classes in March, plus moving) I am going to try to post what I did to encourage someone this week.

Whether it is a card or a note. A phone call. Or an invite to dinner. Which may be on paper plates or on top of boxes.

And when we move I am going to meet the neighbors. And maybe even invite some over for dessert or something amidst all the boxes. You see with my lifestyle I know my house won't be perfect for a looooooooooooooooong time.

I am still going to post date night again starting in February. I figured Valentines is inspiration for everyone. So come on back too for that.

I hope your day is Blessed and I hope that in my randomness that you received some encouragement. Even if it just to realize that your house isn't as messy as you thought. Because; if there was a prize for messiness I would get it.

Be Blessed and Make Fruit

Thankful Thursday in Photos

Welcome to my 'late' Thankful Thursday post. Thanks for coming by and joining me. Today I share some photo's . . .

This year I made a goal for my blog to glorify God. And I made the goal for my house to be a Sanctuary for my family. Here is a photo of my house.

Today I have to share that I am thankful that God brought us here. Soon I'll have to be changing the photo in my banner because we just got word this week that we have to move. Our landlord has been forced to sell. I am thankful that God gave us the time here that he did.
In an earlier post I wrote that I was hopeful and prayerful I would be able to decorate my house with lights for Christmas. You can't see the lights on this house in this photo because for a couple of days we were fixing fuses but. God answered my prayer and supplied enough lights for the house, the gate and the entire wood fence. He even had some left over. I am Thankful God gave me Christmas lights. We will definately be taking them down as soon as it dries out and we have a warm day. They will hang on my next house.
This year one of the things I wanted to do was join Table scape Thursday. Although I didn't get to join today because I had really early meetings and I killed myself all day working on my table scape I was too tired last night to write the post. But here is one photo of my appetizer table. I am thankful I have a table scape completed and photographed and ready for posting on another day.

And lastly I wrote in an earlier post that I was praying that I would be able to co-ordinate this activity again. This is a photo of ladies from a local church who volunteered to come and work at Mission Makeover with my girls. On this night the girls who were in our program were able to share the skills they had learned and be the teachers. Each group pieced a baby quilt that night.

I am Thankful that my church has agreed to let me bring my girls to the church every other Friday. The girls will learn to sew and learn to make a quilt. I will be able to share the gospel with them. I am Thankful God opened the door!

And, one reason I was late posting was I spoke at a ladies group at my church this morning and I recruited 5 volunteers. I am thankful God provides.

Today I have many things to be thankful for. Sometimes these things I have prayed about. These answers have not been in my timing. I have waited 2 years to begin our sewing program again. But God is faithful and God provides provision.

I know that this post is up late and I probably have missed most of you early morning readers but I am praying that whoever gets a chance to come is blessed, encouraged and lifted up by their visit here.

I have had to lean on Isaiah 55:8 & 9 many times in the last 2 years as we prayed, dreamed and wished for ministry related items. I have had to lean many times as I prayed and waited for God's financial provision not only personally but for the ministry. There have been many days that I have had to just resolve to trust because sometimes it is just too darn hard. But I have learned that God is always faithful.

If you need to lean or trust. If you need a little more encouragement here the verse that has helped me so much.

Isaiah 55:8&9 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways" declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways. And my thoughts than your thoughts."

May your day be Blessed.

White Wednesday

Welcome to my White Wednesday tablescape. Lately I am always so behind. I finally finished putting this together yesterday. I have had all the components ready and waiting. It seemed it was almost too late since it has been so nice a warm the last few days. But alas snow is predicted this weekend so it's not too late at all.
Enjoy

There are som chippy white things really. The pot the small tree is in you have seen before.

See way at the back the architectural piece. That's the one from a garage sale that I brought in from the garden.

See at the very top of the little shelf the snowman with the blue hat. He is really, really old but he isn't chippy at all. He has been well taken care of.

Here's another angle maybe you can see the pot better.

And lastly I had to let you see the little "let it snow" sign. My Cowboy always tells me to put it away when I get it out!

Don't forget there are wonderful White posts over at Faded Charm Cottage.

Wordfilled Wednesday and a Pray request

The other night we had rain. It was one of those long slow soaking rains.
The next morning we woke to mud.
This is the verse I thought of when I saw this.

Psalms 51:10

This is one of my favorite verses. I had to laugh when I thought of it when I saw this mess. Actually this was taken the next day just before I brushed him he had already rolled and got rid of some of the dirt. Took me over an hour to clean him up.

Not anything like the time our Lord needs to clean me up.

I am thankful for Wordfilled Wednesday it has caused me to look at everyday things and items, people and creatures in a whole new way.

Today Christy is hosting May your day be filled with God's word.

Before I leave I have to ask you to please pray for me and my Cowboy our family of animals and our ministry.

Yesterday we received word from our landlord that he is having to sell the property.

We have lived here 1 and a half years.

I have to say I am sad. I love this little farm house.

I will miss it.

I am not anxious about this in fact I see it as a new adventure.

Will you please pray that we will find a house we have 90 days.

It isn't easy to find a rental that has land for all my animals.

We are praying that the right property is out there and that it is in Roanoke.

Book Review The Choice

I don't normally rate the book at the beginning of the review but with this one I have to. I think 5 stars is the best you are allowed to rate. So here's 5 stars for the Choice.

I hope you'll stay here a few minutes and read the entire review . . .

I have lost count of how many books I have read and reviewed recently. Reviewing books is something new to me and I am really enjoying it for many reasons. One being it gives me the opportunity to read books I would never have chosen to read. The Choice by Suzanne Fisher isn't one of those. I probably would have purchased this book or gotten it at the library because I am a fan of romances, and romantic suspense.

I was a little weary though when given the option to read this book because I wasn't sure if I wanted to read another book about the Amish. I had just reviewed another book and I was wanting to read something a little different. But I decided I would go ahead and I am glad I did.

The Choice was a great book from beginning to end. I read it this weekend. It was one of those books that causes the laundry, supper and everything else to suffer. The funny thing is with this book because of the subject content you feel even more guilty when you can't put it down and allow your life to go on hold while your reading it.

Here's what the back cover says about the story:
One moment, Carrie Weaver is planning to elope with Lancaster Barnstormer Solomon Riehl, leaving their Amish community behind. The next, she is staring into a future as broken as her heart. Now Carrie faces a choice. An opportunity. But will this decision, this moment in time, change her life forever?

When I began this book I expected it to be predictable. And I have said before in my reviews those of us that read romances should expect predictability. I mean we read them because we expect the girl to get the guy in the end. And so yes The Choice is predictable in that manner. But that is where predictability ends.

I was caught up in this story. There are twists and turns throughout. I was totally surpirsed by the event in Chapter 14 and how it turned out. I never realized who the villian was. In fact I thought I knew who it was and boy was I wrong.

Fisher has a great way of weaving Carrie's story and the other characters stories together. There are characters like her stepsister Emma that you want to know more about. Even her stepmother Esther you become intriqued with and want to hear the rest of her story. Then there is Grace your left wanting to see what happens with her. You are wondering how her relationship with Carrie and her family changes Grace's life.

As the cover description continues this is . . . a tender story of love, forgiveness, and looking below the surface, The Choice covers the sweet simplicity of the Amish world and shows that it's never too late to find your way back to God.

And, I think the best part is that The Choice is book one in the series The Lancaster County series.

The Choice is an easy to read wholesome book that anyone from teenager to older adult would enjoy. It would be great to use for a reading group. (Discussion questions are included)

So take my advice go over to

Amazon

or

Barnes and Noble

If you purchase on February 15th you can enter a drawing for $25.00 certificat from Amazon.


This book was provided to me for review by Litfuse. Follow this link to read more reviews.

A Book Review

Grab this button
Come back on Tuesday for my review of this book.

Simple Woman's Day Book

FOR TODAY. . . from Sherry's Daybook


Outside my window . . . glimpses of green. Last week I noticed birds in my backyard and yesterday morning I noticed little sprigs of grass. Praise God!


I am thinking . . . It will be a beautiful day


I am thankful for . . . a big 'ole ham bone and beans in the crock pot and that I didn't have any appointments and didn't have to leave the house last week


I am wearing . . . comfy Old Nave fleece pants with snow flakes on them a hand me down white long sleeve t-shirt blue knee socks and a hoddie. It is still chilly in the house


I am remembering . . . how much Iove spring


I am going . . . try to finish cleaning,organizing and moving furniture around this week


I am currently reading . . . a novel that I am reviewing calked "Choices" will write the review tonight it's getting lots of stars I am really enjoying it


I am hoping . . . to finish moving furniture and that Cowboy will cooperate


On my mind . . . the amazing things that are happening to our ministry I can see God's hand


Noticing that . . . I still have alot to learn


Pondering these words . . . God is might to save


From the kitchen . . .today beans cooked with a ham and hopefully cornbread. The rest of the week I have no clue.


Around the house . . . more moving and organizing it is finally looking comfy and cozy and organized


One of my favorite things . . . people does that count? Well let me think a minute things that bring people together (I was thinking how much I enjoy friends and family and the kids I work with)
From my picture journal



I love hearts. I have a small collection of hearts that I decorate with in February. I loved this photo.

I'll be back with a book review later today and a random post but I have to get going now the baby is coming today!

Thanks for stopping over and if you didn't come from Peggy's go over there to read more day book posts.

Hope your day is Blessed

Simple Sunday

Praying your Sunday is Blessed and Simple.



Our service this morning at the boys prison facility was annointed. The worshipped, prayed and Praise our Lord.

Tonight he have our first regular service at the Girls Halfway House.

As you spend the afternoon and evening simply Blessed with your family or worshippers please remember us as we present the Gospel.

May your week be Blessed

The Sings My Soul Saturday

This probably isn't the kind of music you expect here. But the lyrics are great. This is a song we
use on Sunday morning at our chapel services. Enjoy.


Go and visit Amy Wyatt at the official Then Sings My Soul blog site.

Have a Blessed Day,
Sherry

Book Review Dug Down Deep by Joshua Harris

I just finished a great book by Joshua Harris. This book was one that took me awhile to read. It was very deep as the title discribes and not an easy book for me to read. However, the content was great. Mr Harris does an excellant job of sharing his stories and life experiences and explaining his personal thoughts about why he believes. Through explaining deep subjects like theology, doctrine and orthodoxy he shares with the reader God's plan for salvation through Jesus Christ. He shares how it is possible to believe; to be a Christian and feel empty. The back cover says this. . . "This book is the story of how I learned to dig into truth and build my life on a real knowledge of God. "

I would definately recommend reading this book. It is perfect for anyone interested in getting a deeper relationship with God. It is great for someone that is a seeker and has questions. It is great for the believer that has become confused by doctrine.

All of the points that Harris brings up is followed up clearly with scripture. In his chapter about the Holy Spirit he states "I longed to know that God was present that I was doing more than singing to the ceiling." Here's one scripture he uses concerning the Holy Spirit and his thoughts. . . Ephesians 5:18 tells us to "be filled with the Holy Spirit." "I see now that God was stirring in me a good desire to be filled. God was working in me, illuminating his Word and showing me my need for more of his work."

You can read more about this book at his website http://www.joshuaharris.com/ there is a link there so you can read a chapter.

This book is available at:

Lifeway

and

Amazon

and

Waterbrook Multnomah

This review book was provided by Waterbrook Multnomah

Thankful Thursday

Today I wanted to share my Thankful list in photo's. I hope you enjoy.

First this photo represents a couple of things.
1 I am thankful that my church is considering letting me teach sewing there for my girls in the halfway house. This is an old photo showing a couple of girls from the past with a donation quilt that we raffled. And our cat. He lived at Mission Makeover. You can go here to see some more photo's.
2. I am thankful that I have been able to spend a lot of time this week getting my sewing room ready to move (switching a bunch of rooms in the house) and I will be joining a new group I found called Sewin' Friday Night. I'll be posting photo's Saturday.

The next two photo's depicts my other three items.

This is my grandson. He went to pre-school this week. We got to go over and take photo's.

#3. It is bittersweet but his starting school brought a lot of changes. It frees up my schedule alot. It is good for him. I still keep him on Mondays though.

And #4 Going to preschool changes my daughters schedule. She won't be working as much. Because he has to be picked up by 3 a couple of days a week she will get off work when she picks him. This is such a huge blessing for them. She works way too many hours. My son in love just got a new job so this helps a lot.

And lastly #5 See the little garage behind them in the photo? I am glad they have a little house in our little town. Took us 10 minutes to drive there on Tuesday morning to take these photo's. This house is a huge blessing to them and us.

And I'll end this post with a prayer request. Their lease is up in May. The landlord wants to sell the house. He will offer them an owner finance. The prayer is that he will give them another 6 months or year renting.

Thanks for visiting and thanks for praying for my family. Please go over at visit Sonya for more Thankful post.

Oh can I add one more? Please pretty please?

#6 The sun is shinning!

Word Filled Wednesday

Ecclesiastes 3:1

There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven.

I loved this photo of mama and colt it reminded me of the seasons of our lives.

From the season of children running around to the season of being a grandma.

I thank God for the memories of all the seasons that have past.

What season are you in right now? Is a season of joy? Is a season of hope?

I hope that whatever season your in that you know Joy because there is nothing between

You and Jesus.

Please visit Christy for more WFW posts.

What I did this morning

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Took a little break this morning to take photo's. I'll be posting my new trade item soon. Stay tuned.

Tuesday Trade Day

I have a new trade for today but will have to post later. The grandbaby starts pre-school today and I am recruited to take photo's. I'll add the new trade soon.
I am still offering this.


Still tryin' to trade this Pottery Barn tray. You can go here to see my first Tuesday Trade Day
post. I am willing to trade it. What do you have? Leave me a comment if you want to trade.

Book Review

I just finished reading a great book from Thomas Nelson publishers.

Voices of the Faithful is a collection of inspiring stories from missionaries all over the world.
The group of stories was compiled by The International Mission Board.

There are many wonderful stories of faith and God's mercy, grace and His Faithfulness.
The stories are set up in a devotional format with 366 devotionals. You could easily take a few minutes everyday and come away both lifted up and encouraged.

This would be a great gift book for someone in the ministry. Or a great book for the family. The stories are short and would be great to use to complement a home school missions study or reading book. And the stories are very easy to read.

Each story begins with a verse and ends with a short sentence prayer. Each of the stories are written in first person by the missionary. Reading the story makes you feel like your reading a letter from the person.

Here's an example of one of the stories:

The writer shares about God's provision. They were worried about the economic condition they were facing and wondering how they would stretch thier last $100.00 to feed thier family of 8.

Vicky writes...' One day he (speaking of her husband) came home very anxious about the immediate future of our family budget. On the same day, God had something to teach us. We heard a knock on the back door; and upon answering it we found our unemployed neighbor . . . That day our neighbor was standing there with a huge bag in arms filled with potatoes, vegtables and even some cookies. '

This is just one example of the many stories that share God's faithfulness and provision.

This book is available at Amazon you can go here and purchase. Or you can purchase at your local Life Way or online here's thier link and my review there.

Thanks for visiting.

Day Book Entry

FOR TODAY January 18th ... from Sherry's Daybook
Outside my window... the sun is up and it offers a beautiful day today
I am thinking... I am excited I am about to finish my mothers lap quilt
I am thankful for... God allows me to serve him!
I am wearing... light blue sweat pants with a pocket and a henley with socks I found under my bed slippers and my robe because it is cold. About the socks I have a habit of wearing them to bed then pushing them off when I get to hot. LOL.
I am remembering... Fun times when the kids were growing up
I am going... to stay home as much as I can this week. Baby will only be here today.
I am currently reading... nothing waiting on my next book to review. BTW I have two just finished and will be posting reviews and offer give a ways.
I am hoping... that we get the cable paid today. Cowboy has to go sell our bicycles today to pay it .
On my mind... Moving furniture and praying Cowboy goes along with my plan and My Home Sanctuary (my other blog) and making my home a sanctuary
Noticing that... I am feeling old and tired and my body hurts. I hope it is only the cold.
Pondering these words... "Such a tiny offering compared to Calvary ...never the less we lay them at your feet. " lyrics from Emanuel God with Us by Mercy Me.
From the kitchen... for tonight last of the left over ham and boxed potatoes
Around the house...cleaning and organizing to prepare to switch the family room to my sewing room my sewing room to Cowboys room and combining Cowboys room into family room. Which I am tired to think of doing this anyway which will make the living room a really formal room instead of the t.v. room. If you didn't get all that I'll post photo's.
One of my favorite things....being able to sew. Which hopefully I'll still be able to do during the moving.
From my picture journal...



A quilt on my design wall that I hope to finish soon. I only have a couple of trees left to applique and then add borders. It probably won't get quilted for a few more months because I want to practise on some other things but hopefully by fall it will be hanging.

Thanks for visiting this morning and go over to Peggy's for more Day Book posts.

Simple Sunday

What does worship look like to you? When I think of church this is what I think of. Although I have never actually been to a church like this it is what I envision.
And, it isn't where I worship now. I worship inside a prison facility every Sunday morning.
My job is the powerpoint and believe it or not I am the Worship leader. In the old days Music Minister. I laugh as I think of that because I can imagine what Tommy Lyons the music minister/youth minister when I was teenager would think.
Our music doesn't consist of hymns. Although we have been singing The Old Rugged Cross. We try each week to incorporate hymns along with the contemporary worship songs. And Christian hip hop and rap. And to tell you the truth I am amazed. I have lots of new material to post on Saturdays for Then Sings My Soul.
Today my Cowboy ended the service with prayer. He asked God the Father to be with all of us that were there. He asked for specific prayers to be heard. He asked that the families of the kids would feel God's precense that they would receive a hug from God today.
Today we talked about Philipians 4:13 and today I am trusting in God and giving him the Glory and I am asking him to help me to trust that he will give me the strength, wisdom and knowledge I need to do as he asks.

I pray that your day is simple, Blessed and that God gives you the strength you need for whatever your tackling. And that you get a hug from God today.

I am spending the rest of the day simply. Although the sun is shinning and it is beautiful outside I need to be inside today. I didn't spend anytime yesterday in the sewing room and I am trying to stick to my goal of getting some quilting done today. I found a new blog and group of quilters this morning and they have inspired me.

May you day be Simply Blessed

Thankful Thursday

Welcome to Thankful Thursday hosted by Sonya. Her challenge is to list 5 things you are thankful for today, or this week.

Here's my list for this week:

1)Copying Sonya on this one. . . I am thankful that my Sunday (Sabbath) was peaceful and relaxing. I got to spend most of the afternoon in my sewing. And, we ran out of chairs again at our chapel service. We had the most boys ever. They stood on thier and sang and Praised God.

2) I am thankful that it is warmer here. I keep whinning about the cold but darn it has been frigid for us.

3) I am thankful that I live in this century. Almost a week without water made me so grateful for the modern conveniences!

4) I am thankful God is patient with us when we're frustrated about timing. And that he gives us patience when we need it while we wait.

5) I am thankful I have the grandbaby today for the last Thursday. Next week he starts preschool and will only be here on Mondays. This is bittersweet but I think good for all of us.

And so with that said I'll be busy the rest of the day.

I hope your day is Blessed.

Wordfilled Wednesday

John 4:32-35 But he said to them. "I have food to eat that you know nothing about.

Then his disciples said to each other. "Could someone have brought him food?"

My foood is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Do not say,
'Four months more and then the harvest?' I tell you, open your eyes and look at
the fields" They are ripe to harvest..."

For more WFW entries visit Amy's hostess this week Lori at All I Have To Give.

Tuesday Trade Day and a Random Post

I am offering to trade this. It is a plate from Pottery Barn. My post below tells more.
I am adding this post because I have been having a problem with spam comments. Every few days I get annonymous comments that are trying to sell me something. I deleted one earlier or tried but it left a message that said it was deleted by the administrator. I thought that sounded tacky. So I wanted to let everyone know what was going.
I don't want this to affect the trade. I am leaving this up through tonight then I'll put it on the sidebar. It's available till someone wants it. I have something new to offer next week. So if you came by today and this didn't interest you come back.
Come by tomorrow for Wordfilled Wednesday

This Is IT . . .

This is it . . . What you've been waiting for . . .
Drum roll please . . .
Here's what I want to trade
And yes it is Pottery Barn see below

And yes it is perfect. And yes I did get it at a garage sale. For pennies. The price sticker
say's $29.00 but it had a mark down to $19.99. It is mirowave and dishwasher safe. Sorry about the glare but the sun shinning in my window caused the glare. Yes I said sun.

So who wants this?

What do you have to trade.

I would really like 4 white or off white salad plates. Anyway have any? I'll trade this for anything that I take a fancy to so.

Take your pictures get your post up and come here and tell me. Leave comments today if you have something you want to trade with me or anyone else. I didn't put up Mr. Linky because if this goes well I want to move this to my other blog. But I have more readers here.

Let's see how fast this goes!

Simple Woman's Day Book

FOR TODAY January 11th...
from Sherry's DaybookOutside my window...(kitchen window) I always seem to use the kitchen because it is the first window I look out in the morning. Today there is a donkey standing outside my window. In the bright sunshine.

I am thinking... How much I love waking up to the bright sun. I always pray every morning and thank God for the sun.

I am thankful for... Grace and that God knows it all. And that he gave us the Holy Spirit because when I can't put into words what I am feeling he does.

I am wearing... Not enough clothes. Still cold. I need to add another layer.

I am remembering...I was praying last night and I remembered when my kids 15 and 17 we were living in Boulder. It was cold and we were snowed in. We cuddled up together on under blankets on the couch and I read to them the Horse Whisperer. Sounds funny reading to kids that old but they soaked it up. I miss that time.

I am going... nowhere today. I will babysit the grandbaby and play on the computer till the pipes thaw and water starts to run. Then I will be busy.

I am hoping... and praying the pipes thaw and there is no breakage. And that I get to wash clothes and dishes and take a shower at home.

On my mind... what will happen. Our ministry needs a permanent home a building. I see some amazing things developing and coming together and I am just a little afraid to hope.

From the kitchen... nothing planned yet. I am thinking of baking but not today maybe tomorrow. I have yeast and flour and cinnamon. Hmmm what should I bake.

From my picture journal... above mentioned Donkey outside my window.

I finished my post and then went to the kitchen for a Dr. Pepper. This is what I saw . . .
Simple things make me smile. They are all laying in the sun. God always seems to know what will make my day.
Thanks for visiting today. The Simple Women's Daybook is hosted by Peggy you can visit her and join the group.

I hope your day is Simple and Blessed.

A Random Post . . . Not Really

It might seemed random but it really isn't. I have decided to add a label to my list. It is Random.
I am a woman of structure. I don't really write schedules but I am a schedule person. You might have noticed that in my posting.
When my children were young and I was a sahm I stayed at home. Cowboy learned quickly once he started to travel not to ask me every other day to take a shirt to the cleaners. I would fuss and fuss. You see I guess in my own way I was frugal as well because I figured that going to the cleaners every other day was silly and a wast of time. So we went once a week unless it was an emergency. I got much more done at home if I wasn't running to the store or the cleaners everyday. Now the quilt shop was a different story. LOL. No I am kidding I would always do my errands all on the same days trying to group things together to save time.

So you see I am really random because this is getting loooong. Bear with me.

The reason that I decided to add Random is because I like structure and order so much. It helps me to be more organized. And so I wanted to let you know how I'll be writing posts this year. Here's my list of meme's (I guess thier called) or themes.

Sunday my own Simple Sunday in the morning if you come by early you should see a short sweet Blessing for your day.
Sunday afternoon a post here about our chapel service. I originally intended to do this on Monday following Peggy's Mission 4 Monday but lately our services have been such a Blessing that I usually can't wait till Monday. (You can go over to the ministry blog for todays post.)
Monday Simple Woman's Daybook here
Mosaic Monday here and over at my other blog My Home Sanctuary
Metamorphis Monday over at my other blog My Home Sanctuary
Tuesday Trade Day Tuesday my new meme please come and join me here
2nd Time Around Tuesday at my other blog My Home Sanctuary
Wednesday Wordfilled Wednesday here
White Wednesday over at my other blog My Home Sanctuary
Thursday Sonya's Thankful Thursday here
Tablescape Thursday over at my other blog My Home Sanctuary
Friday Dream Date Friday beginning here in February
Saturday Then Sings My Soul here

And everyday over at My Home Sanctuary I'll be joining Rachel Anne for Simple Things.

So this is my planned day. Everyday I'll be writing these posts usually in the morning and then maybe a Random post in the afternoon or evening. I do get Wild Hares...oh that reminds me I'll be doing Wild Hare Wednesday too over at My Home Sanctuary or here just depends on the Wild Hare.

I hope you'll join me any day or everyday if you have the time. Hopefully I will be writing something that will interest and Bless you.

And so now I end with a hug and Blessing and I hope that your week is fabulous.

Simple Sunday

May your day be simple Blessed. May God's word speak to you. I love the words to the song. . .
Word of God speak
Would You pour down like rain
Washing my eyes to seeYour majesty
To be still and know That You're in this place
Please let me stay and rest In Your holiness Word of God speak

May you be wrapped in His love today.

Then Sings My Soul

Welcome to a frigid, cold Saturday at my house. Today I am in the sewing room. But I wanted to share something today for Then Sings My Soul. I was taking a break and looking for a video to use tomorrow at our chapel service. You can read about our ministry here. I remembered this video and the post. I got to thinking that maybe today your going through a rough time. Maybe your asking questions. Maybe your just in need of being reminder that God cares about you.
Please visit my post here I hope your encouraged to know that he understands.
And, go over and visit Amy for more Then Sings My Soul posts.

Under a layer of . . .& Thankful Thursday (late)

Actually not. But it is frigid here. At least snow would be pretty. When I go out to feed it does feel like it should look like this.

I have not spent as much time posting this week as I would like.

I live in a wonderful old farm house. But old farmhouses don't hold in heat real well and are drafty. I finally gave up last night and nailed a quilt to the side door and shut it off. Looks tacky but it is a little warmer. The door is really pretty when it isn't cold though. It's actually half door half window so that is partly why it is so cold.

I meant to post about my thankfulness yesterday and didn't get to so here are 5 things that I am thankful for.

#1 God continues to provide sometimes in strange ways. I mentioned on New Years that our landlord gave us $600.00 off our rent. Well two days ago he hired Cowboy to work on his son's truck. We got another $500.00 off and $100.00 cash to boot. We needed gas money and the money to pay the phone and cable. So paying bills today.

#2 I am thankful that my friend Denise's husband is home from the hospital and that she managed to post yesterday to update.

#3 I am thankful for propane heat

#4 I am thankful that God gives me a heart that is somewhat patient with the circumstances. Actually I have had fun dealing with the inconvenience of no water. I am learning the dependability of paper plates. Do you know how much dish soap is? Go to paper and you won't spend so much on soap. LOL.

#5 Lastly I am thankful for hot showers. Even though are pipes are frozen and we have no running water in our house we can go next door to our landlords business. He has showers that have very hot water.

Praising God in the winter storm. I am thankful that he brought us here to this house.

And, this year I am going to keep photo's of the house on the blog. You'll always be able to tell it's me even if I change the background.

Tomorrow I'll be accomplishing one of my goals and dreams and spending the day in my sewing room. I'll post some photo's.

Hope your weekend is Blessed.

Wordfilled Wednesday

Behold I stand at the door and knock anyone who hears My voice and answers I will come in and dine with him and he with me.
Revalation 3:20
Here's my late WFW post. If you haven't already been visiting today go by Penny's todays hostess.
Hope your day is Blessed. BTW check out yesterdays post. I want to invite you to join me on Trade Day Tuesday. Got something you want to trade? Or something you wish for? Check it out and join me.

A Hare Brain Idea . . .

O.K. I have this crazy idea. And I hope you guys think it is super cool because I need your help.
I am actually going to post this for Wild Hare Wednesday because it is a Hare Brain idea.

O.K. here's my idea. Next Tuesday I will start what I call Trade Days Tuesday.
Here's how I think it will work. I will post a photo of something that I really like but I don't use anymore along with a request for something I want. If you have what I want then leave a comment for me and a photo on your blog.

If you have something you want to put out to trade then write a post and come here and link up.

Does this make sense? I think it will be fun. What do you think? Give me your ideas. Let me know if anyone else is interested. Or if you have a better idea of how to set this up.

Here's a hint about my first trade. Pottery Barn. That is all I am saying. No leave me a comment and let me know if you are interested in joining.

Oh one more thing....here's a photo from my friend Michelle's blog. She is a desinger of wonderful stitcheries and she is offering a year long free pattern event. Go over and check it out.

Lingering on Simple Things

Today I am joining Peggy at Simple Woman again. I did this a couple of times in '09. And well it seemed right to do it today. So sit down grab a cup of tea, hot chocolate or coffee. Or in my case a Dr. Pepper and join me as I plan my week and ponder my day.


FOR TODAY the first real post of 2010


Outside my window ... Deception. Yes you read right. The sun is beautiful and shinning brightly. But it is really cold for Texas. So yes it is deceiving


I am thinking... I enjoyed the weekend. Which was spent in my sewing room.


I am thankful for... God's provision and that bills are paid again. Including cable which includes internet.


I am wearing... Really old stirups pants from Lerner's NY (are they still around?), silk long johns and a worn out long sleeve knit top with socks of course. I told it is cold here!


I am remembering... To be patient and that through trials that I am growing. At least trying to remember this.


I am currently reading... Dug Down Deep by Joshua Harris. My next book review. Watch for the review on this one.


I am hoping... My dreams and goals match up with God's. (See my post yesterday) I am really hoping that our ministry gets to start doing sewing again with the halfway house girls this year.


On my mind... I am thinking and praying about totally rearranging the house. Moving our big t.v. to my sewing room, moving Cowboy's room (which is the gameroom) to the sewing room too. Moving my sewing room to Cowboy's room. Why? Combining the t.v. and gameroom to one room so that the living room is more formal. Or as formal as Cowboy Chic can be. Stay tuned. Gotta convince the Cowboy.


Noticing that... How God really is in control.


Pondering these words... Grace



From the kitchen... Yummy taco's tonight. Ham and beans tomorrow. I cooked a ham yesterday I love making beans with the leftovers.


Around the house... Christmas decorations waiting to come down and snowy decorations for January. Table waiting to be set.


One of my favorite things...Quilting





From my picture journal...
A dream photo. I would love to do this.

New Years Goals and Dreams in photo's

Making my house a home. Lea's last comment got me to thinking. I had mentioned the footprints in the snow and wishing tht they weren't there. But you know I am glad that they are because they remind me why there is one set of prints. Now I will remember each time I walk in that Jesus is with me. Thank you Lea. Living in Faith



This year one goal I have is to spend more time with God. I love to journal my prayers. This photo represents my prayer journal.
Another goal spending time at least every Saturday in my sewing. I guess I could include this on my dream list.


This is a ministry goal that I am including in my dream list. This was a photo taken a couple of years ago. The girls were in my program at Mission Makeover. The ladies are volunteers from a local church. The girls were being the teachers that night. Each group completed a baby quilt top. I dream doing this events. I trust God's timing. I live on faith. Please visit me here each Monday for a post about the Ministry. Or go here for regular updates, photo's and more info.

Last year (that sounds long ago) I began doing Small Things with Rachel Anne. This year following her suggestions my goal to making my Home a Sanctuary will be easier.

This photo represents how I want my home office not to look. Another dream. Yes it does look like this most of the time. You can only imagine what the desk looks like.

And lastly another dream. LOL that my floors will look like this without my help. Alas I add this to my goal list.

And I have another goal which relates to my blog. My goal is to be encouraging and to share my faith with you this year. And, to write less posts with the label dummies at blogging. I added that because did you notice I stopped writing in italic's? I went to click on it and did something wrong and it disappeared! Maybe when I refresh it will come back!

And now dear ones I am off to spend the rest of this Sunday simply. Which by the will be the Sunday label. Come by each day and each Sunday for a Blessing.