The Journey Back

Book Review part 1--No Safe Haven

2012-02-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

Since I started reviewing books about 2 years ago and, I would have to say that No Safe Haven by Kimberly and Kayla R. Woodhouse is the BEST book that I have read. the publishers site . . .

And, it is one that I found at the library. In fact I really didn’t even read the cover description because I was in a hurry. It was a new release. I read a couple lines on the description and figured it would be readable.

I had no idea what category it really fell in other than it was a suspense.

This book flat out Blessed me. It is the story of mother Jenna and daughter Andie are boarding their private plane and within minutes the suspense begins. Their flight is sabotaged and they crash land in Denali Park in Alaska. As the drama unfolds instead of their pilot (an old trusted friend) trying to ‘save the day’ he pulls out a gun and shoots the radio!

It is once they land that the Blessing for me began. When Andie forgives the pilot and refuses to leave the plan until she has shared the gospel and prayed for him.

As the suspense and intrigue develops both Andie and Jenna’s own faith is tested.

The authors mom and daughter team Kimberly and Kayla do an excellent job of developing the characters and the plot.

I have a lot more to say about this book. But here's a little from

Jenna and Andi Tikaani-Gray are hoping for a fresh start. Though twelve year-old Andi has long struggled with a rare medical disorder, she and her mother have finally received good news from out-of-town specialists. It's news they desperately needed, especially after the recent death of Jenna's husband (Andi's dad) in a car accident.

But as they are flying home to Alaska, ready to begin again, the unthinkable happens. The pilot sabotages their small plane and crashes into Sultana, one of the most remote and dangerous mountains in the Land of the Midnight Sun. Even worse, a winter storm is headed their way along with someone who doesn't want to save them, but to kill them.

Only one man can keep them alive: Cole Maddox, the mysterious last-minute passenger who joined them on their flight. But trust doesn't come easy to Jenna or Andi and they both sense Cole is hiding something.

A relentless tale of survival and suspense unfolds, involving military technology designed by Jenna's late husband that some would do anything to possess.

Check this one out. You won't be disappointed.

For more info.
www.kimberleywoodhouse.com
www.kimberleykaylawoodhouse.com
www.kaylawoodhouse.com

I was not asked by the author or publisher to write this review.

Thankful Thursday

2012-02-02T11:35:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Thankful Thursday. I am Happy to be able to share my Thankful heart today.
I have a short thankful list. Today I am thankful for my husband. My very own Cowboy. Today I am thankful that this is the view from the end of our road.

Sometimes I get frustrated when things don't go as I have planned. Today was kind of one of those days.

But the thing that changed all that was when Cowboy suggested taking the dog for a ride around the lake.

And then we stopped and let her run and play awhile.

It was kind. It was compassionate. I am Thankful my Cowboy took time for us today.

I hope you have a long list like I do of things to be thankful for. Even if you only have one to share today go ahead and write about and link up. Click here to join Iris for Thankful Thursday.

On a Thankful Journey . . .

Thankful End of January Thursday

2012-01-26T12:45:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Thankful Thursday . . .
Today I am thankful it is Thursday so that means the week is almost over. It has been a really, really busy week for us. I'll share more and why in another post. I have lots more things to be thankful for . . .

I am thankful my Cowboy and I got to eat lunch out yesterday. I had nacho's while he ate
Menudo. Yuck. But he really loves it. We had gone to his favorite Mexican resturant that has a bakery. We went there to buy chicharones (sp) for the boys on the drama team last night.
Sorry but the spelling. In case your a gringo like me . . . they are fried pork fat. The boys loved them it was a great treat for them. I could share more.

But I have more thankfulness . . .

I am thankful that God uses other bloggers to encourage and help hold me accountable in many areas.
I am thankful to join this group and talk about why we love our husbands.

And this one should have been #1 I am glad that God loves me and he is patient with me.

God put it on my heart to read through my Bible this year. This week because it was such a busy week my Bible got dusty again. It was frustrating not to be able to read it. But, I am praying that next week we will be back to normal.

And I am thankful for Laurie who is the hostess for Januray.

So do you have a thankful list today. Click here to join Laura and link up. Or just stop over and read all the other posts.

On a Thankful Journey . . .

I would love for you to join me in reading through the Bible this year. Or just join me in reading everyday. Leave me a comment and let me know your Reading On. I would love to pray for you everyday. I would love to hear from you!

Wordfilled Wednesday Artcamp 1

2012-01-25T04:33:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Wordfilled Wednesday
Today I wanted to begin sharing with you photo's from last Thursdays Art Camp at the Juvenile
Dention Center where my Cowboy and I serve as Chaplains.

I was able to photograph Alan early on during the painting process. We were all amazed at what he chose to paint.

It was actually his painting that gave me the idea to put the scripture on the artwork. Notice he wrote the reference in the right hand corner. I applied the verse when I downloaded the photo's.

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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity.
Jeremiah 29:11-14

I had not had the chance prior to art camp to talk to Alan. (He had not come to chapel services) I was listening as a couple of different volunteers talked to him during the day. One of the volunteers asked him if he went to chapel and he answered 'No'. He continued to say he wasn't sure that there is a God.

Alan is on my prayer list. I am praying that he will call on God and he will pray. I am praying that God hears his prayer. I am praying Alan will seek God with all his heart.

I am praying for you too. I pray that if you don't have a relationship with God that today you will seek him.

And, if you are a Believer. A follower of Jesus that you will pray for Alan.

Last Thursday was my first time to join the Art Camp. I never dreamed that using a talent or a knowledge of painting was a way to spread the gospel. A way to share God's love with boys in a Juvenile Detention Center.

I would love for you to click here and read my entire post about Art Camp.

Maybe God will reveal to you a gift you have or a new idea to share his love with someone else.

Thank you Amy Deanne for allowing God to speak to your heart and for sharing Wordfilled Wednesday! Click here to visits Amy's blog. Click here for the WFW linky.

I am challenging myself to read the Bible everyday this year.
Will you join me?

Reading along the Journey . . .

Titus Tuesday--T.V. or No T.V.

2012-01-24T14:55:00.000-08:00

Today I am joining Darlene for Titus Tuesday a fun linky party about encouraging each other as Godly women. As the scripture commands the older women are to teach the younger women. To encourage.
Today I want to be open and honest. And encourage you.

A few posts ago when we were all writing about the New Year one of the things I said was that I was so glad for 2012 to start. I was more than happy to put 2011 behind me. It was a rough year for us for many reasons.

One of them being the lack of this.

We spent from February to June with absolutely no t.v. And, very little inter-net. Giving up the t.v. as you can imagine was pretty difficult. I really missed Home and Garden network and the Food Channel.

But not having the inter-net was even harder. Just for a moment girlfriend sit and think what it would be like to not be able to visit your friends blogs. Or to write on yours. Now that I have your attention let's switch gears and go back to the t.v. (We'll talk about the inter-net another day)

You see the reason that we didn't have any t.v. was we flat didn't have the money for cable. Where we were living at the time cable was the only option. And then thankfully in June we moved. And we got t.v. again.

Still without cable. This is what the picture looked like until we were able in July to buy an antenna or something so we could at least get local channels.

You may not think so but actually it really didn't bother me all that much because I am a reader. I read alot.
I love to review books. I love to read books from the library. So, no t.v. really wasn't as much a burden to me it was Cowboy.

Once we got the antenna thingy we were able to get local channels. Cowboy was happy when he could watch football last fall. And we could get CW33. Which was o.k. with me because I started watching
Hart Of Dixie and Ringer. At least for a few weeks until I realized that those two hours needed to be spent sewing I had a quilt that had to be finished by Christmas. BTW I didn't start watching those shows again. I realized that in those 2 hours that I could do a lot of sewing.

Besides local channels we do have a couple of other channels. One which has come to be my favorite. And the real reason for this post.

You see even before we didn't have t.v. we never really watched network t.v. we mostly watched Food Channel and Home and Garden. And we would watch movies. Usually rented. We both just really are not into the themes of most sitcoms. And all the adult cartoons are just trashy. I don't know any other way to describe them. The only other thing really left to watch is NCIS and although I would watch those types of shows Cowboy isn't into them. And even those shows have language and contain adult very adult themes and scenes.

T.V. isn't like it was when I was a kid or a teenager or actually a young adult. Back in the day it was shows like . . .

Adam 12

And

And others like Leave It To Beaver and McHales Navy. I love Lucy and Dick Van Dyke. I remember

back in the day when a couple rarely even kissed. And they slept in twin beds. When mom's like June Cleaver stayed at home and wore pearls and dresses.

I was glad when we got the antenna thingy and we found this channel

They show all the old shows. All the shows that are wholesome and don't have words bleeped out. All the shows that I wouldn't worry about my children hearing a bad word or seeing something that they shouldn't.

I know that there are at least a couple of different camps when it comes to t.v. I know that some of you ladies don't even have t.v.'s in your house. And honestly if it was up to me I would not have a t.v.

But I have to admit to you ladies it isn't necessarily because of the violence or language or adult content necessarily. For me I just have other things to do.

I realized when we didn't have t.v. that I could spend more time sewing or reading. Or even cleaning. I realized that if I didn't watch Ringer or X Factor (and it was hard to quit) that I could spend that hour reading my Bible. Which is something that I have challenged myself to do much more of this year.

Dear friends today I am challenging you to think about. To ponder. And to pray about what t.v. means to you and your family. If your a young mother I want to challenge you to think about the amount of t.v. your children watch. And, the content of what they do watch.

And, I would love to hear from you. I would love for you to comment or email me. (slegan@yahoo.com)

I want to pray for you and your family. I know that many of us maybe are very careful about what we watch. And we're careful about what the children watch.

And, if you have already made the decision to not watch Ringer tonight (I think it's tonight. LOL) well why not just spend a few more minutes on the computer and go and check out the other Titus Tuesday posts I know you'll be encouraged. Click here to go to the linky. See you there!

Reading On the Journey . . .

Mosaic Monday Art Camp 1

2012-01-23T07:18:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Mosaic Monday . . .
I haven't joined in a while. I am glad to be back and share some cool art . . .

These photo's were taken last Thursday.  I got to go to art camp at the juvenile detention center where my Cowboy and I are Chaplains.
It was our first time for art camp. It was so much fun. I thought it would be fun to collage/mosaic and share the photo's.   You can click here to read the story on my Thankful Thursday post.

The Art Camp program will be presented monthly throughout the spring and hopefully into the summer. I'll be taking photo's at each camp.   This time I just went in and started snapping shots And then a couple of hours into the day the other volunteers had begun talking to the boys and giving them a Bible. Then they shared a special verse with each boy. I was watching and taking photo's and it came to me that I could put the verse on the art. By that time the day was almost over and I didn't get a chance to take any more shots. I was in the process of taking shots of the boys holding their work. Which unfortunately I can't share with you. I took those last shots and cropped them to only include the artwork which is what I used for the mosaic.

I will be taking each of the individual photo's and adding the Bible verses to them. I'll post them Wednesday for Wordfilled Wednesday. Please come back by and see them.

I am so looking forward to the February Art Camp. I can't wait to share more photo's. Click Here to read the Art Camp Story.

Thanks Mary for offering Mosaic Monday at your Little Red House! Click here to join Mary for todays Mosaic Monday. She is sharing some very pretty winter photo's.

Reading along the Journey . . . Read On

Marriage Monday

2012-01-22T20:12:00.000-08:00

It was over 30 years ago that I did this . . .

I don't usually write alot about what happens behind these closed doors. If you happen to be a regular reader you might have noticed the page/tab I have set-up for The Love Dare. And, if your a regular visitor you might have already noticed that there is nothing there.

You see most of the time I am angry. Most of the time I am annoyed. Most of the time I am not this . . .

Oh I am really good at cooking dinner and keeping the laundry done. I am really good at keeping the house clean most of the time. But I am not so good at Praising my husband. I am not so good at supporting him. I am not so good at having confidence in him. Because . . .

I am really good at finding fault.
I am really good at expecting too much
I am really good at critizing
I am really, really good at 'I want'

and the list could go on and on and on.

But I realize that at least in my head. Not so much in my heart. That God expects me to be forgiving.

Even when he happens to be feeling bad (he struggles with extreme pain in his knees) and he doesn't say he's feeling bad and he gets in a bad mood and yells at me over something insignificant.

Or he happens to be a little snippy and make a comment to me that isn't so nice.

Or like the other day when he came home about an hour before I expected him and I was in the middle of laundry. And I was moving stuff around in my sewing room area (in our bedroom) and I was putting up in a closet some fabric and books to make room to put the dirty clothes hamper in a more out of the way place.
And I had a stack of books and papers in the middle of the bedroom floor that I was sorting to throw away or put in the closet. And I had the computer on the floor because I was also writing a post between laundry loads. One thing I do well at least I think so is multi task. And, besides all this chaos in the middle of the bedroom floor is a really, really big dog and her dog bed.

Which left actually no room to walk if you have good knees. But imagine having bad knees.

But in my defense all he had to do was say something like "Um honey I realize I came in an hour earlier than you expected. But I would really like to get to my closet without stepping over the dog, and piles of fabric. And piles of books and papers and ...." But did he say something nice like that No. Of course not because he can be a ______ . Well we won't go there but I am sure you have an idea of what I was thinking.

He yelled at me. And then when I yelled back he actually pointed his finger at me. Which really, really, really made me mad. And I was mad the rest of the day. He left to go to work. And I was still mad when he came home. The next day I was still mad.

Even after praying for over an hour while he was at work. Even after God tried to work on my heart and my spirit. I was still mad.

And then something happened. God's grace. God's patience. And God's loving kindness broke through all the anger. And I . . .

looked into the mirror and I saw . . .

not a beautiful shining crown. Not a woman of noble character. I saw a broken and rusy, tarnished crown. I saw a woman that expects too much. I saw a woman that needs God's grace. I saw a woman that needs her husbands grace and forgivenss.

I saw a woman that needs to be loving and kind even when I don't feel like it. Because God said to.
And I pray that God will keep being patient with me and teach me to be loving and kind even when I don't feel like it.

On the Journey to kindness,

Today I am linking with e-mom at Marriage Monday.

Because someone near and dear to me had a rough week last week.

And, I want you to know that even though we try to pretend all is well with the world.

And that well all try to pretend that we are almost perfect. And that our marriages are perfect.

Well we're not. We're human. We're Real

I pray that you are encouraged not by my actions but by my heart.

If you have any encouragement from being united in Christ, if any comfort from His love if any

fellowship witht he Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by

being like-minded, havingthe same love, being on in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of

selfish ambition or cain conceit but in humility consider others better than yourselves.

Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 2:1-5

I am thankful God hears my cry for forgiveness. I am God gives grace.

I am glad that my Cowboy gives grace.

Thankfully on a grace filled Journey . . .

My Bad

2012-01-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

Yep I have to say "My Bad". I have no idea what happened last week. I didn't get a lot of posts done. And, I didn't get a lot of Bible reading done. I can't even tell you what happened. Other than we were really busy with a lot of stuff that I won't bore you with!

This week here's what I plan to do . . .

And I plan to pray for you. I plan to email you. I plan to leave comments. And encourage you to do what I need to do . . .

Dust a weeks worth of dust away and get back into reading! Let's do this thing together!
Even though I may not come by and visit you. Or send an email. Or leave a comment. I am praying for all of you!

If you haven't joined our little group yet it isn't too late. Jump right on in and start reading your Bible everyday!

I am challenging myself to get 'back on track' this week! I challenge you! Let's Read On together. Reading along the Journey

Blue Monday--Blue Linky's

2012-01-22T16:20:00.000-08:00

Happy Blue Monday I thought it might be fun to do something different and share some of my favorite linkys that all happen to have Blue buttons. Or at least alot of blue on them.

First my favorite and the first one I found. Wordfilled Wednesday is a day dedicated to photo's that illustrate God's word. When I first started participating I was pretty clueless. I didn't know how to put words on photo's. Amy was kind enough to let me use her post each week and link up. After a few months I figured it out and started making my own. Mine are not near is nice as Amy's or some of the others that participate each week. But I love it. Go over and check out WordFilled Wednesday Amy is now linked with Internet Cafe Devotions. Click here to visit. Be sure and go by on Wednesdays! Click here to visit Amy's blog.

This one I ocassionally visit. I usally think about it when I visit my friend Denise at Shorty Bear's Place who I visit everyday because she Blesses me! Click here to visit Denise. She has the button on her blog.

One of my absolute favorites. Amy had the amazing idea to post videos of favorite Christian songs found through the week. Go by on a Saturday and visit. You will be Blessed. Click here.

And a new one I love, love, love. I don't think I have actually participated here yet because I haven't gotten anything finished that I have photo's for. I'll be posting the grandsons quilt this week! Come by on Friday to check it out and go over to Sarah's too to see lots of amazing quilts and finished projects. Click here. Oh and Sarah's blog name is Confessions of a Fabric Addict. That could be my name!

Next the newest I have found and joined. Cindy had the amazing idea to memorize scripture in ABC order. She has spent who knows how many hours coming up with a verse for each letter of the alphabet. I started last week and I am challenging my kids to memorize with the grandkids. Looking forward to this helping to bring our family closer together! Click here to join Cindy.

And last only because that is how the photo's loaded. One of my favorites. Thankful Thursday is the brain child of the amazing Iris at Grace Alone. On Thursday we post about things we are Thankful for. She also hosts Marriage Monday on her blog which I want to join soon. Thankful Thursday now rotates to different blogs each month. In January the hostess is Laurie. You can click here to join this week.

And one more Blue button . . .

Of course have to include Blue Monday!
I hope you enjoyed visiting today. And maybe you found a new linky you might want to join. If so link up and leave a comment and let the hostess know I sent you by! Oh and don't forget to visit Sally for Blue Monday! Click here!

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-20T12:57:00.000-08:00

A day late but I have a great Thankful post I wanted to share. I really meant to write this yesterday but it was one of those days when things just kept happening and I just never got a chance to post.
But it was an absolutely amazing day and I wanted to share it with you!

Yesterday we got to go to the juvenile detention center (prison) where we are chaplains. We were able to help with a new program that was being provided by another group. They were kind enough to allow us to help and I got to take pictures.

This is Anne. She was the director of the program which was called Art Camp. In this photo she is sharing about how she became an 'artist' at the age of 40 (something). God just spoke to her heart and told her to paint. She didn't know why but she responded. Anne has had no formal training. Not even an art class in school. (at least not in 30 or so years) But she is an amazing artist. She didn't know at first why God spoke to her until she realized that she could share what he had given her with 'our' boys. And so, with God's grace Art Camp was born. This was her second program at our facility.

We met at 9:00 yesterday morning. We were allowed to have 5 boys come to the program. (They were taken out of school.) Anne shared her testimony with them and talked a little about art. She showed some examples of how a talent to draw and paint can be used. Most of the boys are actually very talented artists. Many can draw very well and can copy almost anything.

The sad part is what they typically draw are tattoes. And, if they have any desire or interest in using thier skill it is usually to be a tattoo artist.

Anne showed examples of greeting cards and advertising elements and photography and explained to them how they could use thier talent in many different ways. She explained to them that 'art' isn't just famous paintings in museums.

And we also learned about a lot of different mediums. We learned about using glue, mod podge, burlap, paint of all kinds; rocks and other 'texture' elements. We learned about using sharpies with paint. It was amazing. I learned so much. I came away wanting to paint!

And, I even came home with an idea for a quilt. One of the ladies was doodling or drawing. All the boys made pencil drawings and then put the drawings on canvas. I thought the lady was just doodling while she was talking to one of the boys. And then she got a canvas and started painting. Just 'playing' around she said. But the actual painting was so cool.

Each of the boys were paired with an adult. They worked through the day together and at the end of the day they were given Bibles. The adults shared a verse with each boy and underlined it in the Bible.

I wanted to show you one of the boys paintings.

This is actually the unfinished painting. I didn't get a good one of the painting alone. (I can't share photo's of the boys) When I noticed that he had written the reference on his canvas it gave me the idea to put the verse on each painting. So I started taking more photo's. Then I wrote down all the verses.

I am planning on putting the verses on each photo. Once I am done then we will print them and give the boys a photo of their art with the verse on it.

It was so much fun! I loved the opportunity to spend the day with the boys yesterday. I am so thankful that God is opening the doors and providing new programs for the boys. I am thankful that he is allowing us to spend more time with the boys! Even though we provide the Sunday church services. And, we have a drama team and have weekly practises we don't get a lot of one on one time. I am happy and grateful that
God is opening more doors that will allow us to have more one on one time! I am Thankful!

A to Z Memory Verse Challenge

2012-01-18T09:45:00.000-08:00

For a couple of years I have been wanting to work on memorizing Bible verse with my grandkids. I loved the idea of doing it in order of the ABC's but I never did follow through. But this year I am! I found this amazing challenge over at Cindy's blog. I just love her header and the verse she dedicates her blog with!

Cindy started this amazing and easy challenge. A verse every two weeks. Easy Peasy even for young children. I just started we are behind a little but at least the first verse she chose was pretty easy. We all (at least the adults) already know this one. Just gotta learn the reference.

I love the photo she made so I wanted to share it.

One of the things things I want to do is illustrate each verse with my own photo or one I find on the web. I already have an idea for this one. Just gotta get the photo and get it illustrated. I think it will be fun and encouraging sending them to my kids that live out of state.

My son and his family live in Missouri. This challenge I hope will be a way for all of us to communicate more and spend time together even if it is through cyberspace.

One of the things on my To Do list for 2012 is to be a better long distance Grandma; what better way?

How about you? Are you a long distance grandma? Why not join us? Here's the link to Cindy's blog.

And, why not join me in reading through the Bible this year? Read On!

Wordfilled Wednesday Proverbs 31

2012-01-18T07:45:00.000-08:00

Cowboy has the privilege next month of performing his first wedding. We are praying for the sweet couple as they prepare to begin their new life together. It really is a privilege and an honor to be a part of their wedding. I'll be taking photo's (my first wedding too). The bride is on staff at the juvenile detention center where we serve.
What a blessing it has been to see the staff trading places while on duty so they can come to service if only for a few minutes.

I am praying for all the brides this year as the plan and prepare for their weddings. Praying that they are preparing their hearts and that God is giving wisdom and molding their characters.

Thanks for visiting today please follow this link for more WFW posts and beautiful photo's and scripture.

Join me Reading the Bible this year. Read On . . .

Titus Tuesday Errands with Happy Children

2012-01-17T12:34:00.000-08:00

What to do today? I don't know about you but rarely do I have to ask myself that question; because I usually have a million things to
do! I bet you do too!

I have never been a list maker.

At least I thought I wasn't . . . LOL. But I realized I am. I just never actually wrote down a list. But I always seemed to have a plan in mind of what I/we (me and kids) would need to accomplish during the week. And during the day.

I realize belatedly I/we might have accomplished alot more had I actually written down what I/we needed to do.

Today I want to encourage you to make a list. I know for us as a family knowing what we needed to do each day helped alot! Whether your list looks like this . . .

Or your more of an old fashioned girl . . .

A daily or weekly list encouraged us to keep on track. I realized that for my family it not only helped us to get things accomplished but it really helped our family get along. My kids knew everyday when we left for school what 'the plan' for the afternoon after schoolwas. Having 'a plan' really made after school errands much easier for us. I think it had a lot to do with that the kids knew what was expected each afternoon. So instead of sitting in school all day making plans to play with neighbor kids, or play nintendo or a million other kid things right after school. They knew that their plans would happen once we were home after a couple of stops. Basically they would get in the car expecting to stop at the cleaners or at the store. And they would have a happy attitude about it. Once we learned this it made our drives much quieter. No whinning or crying about running errands.

One thing that I didn't do that my daughter does with her 3 year old is . . .

. . . making a list together. This is a new habit for her. And probably comes from our habit of planning our days.

When I saw her making a list with my grandson I couldn't help but think of this verse.

Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he/she will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6

Give it a try; include your child/children in making plans for the day or for the afternoon after school. I would love to hear from you if you try this. Let me know if it makes your after school errands happier times.

Oh and BTW here's what my list looks like these days . . .

I am planning to Read the Bible through this year. Wanna join me?

Click on the Read On 2012 on my sidebar.

Joining Darlene for Titus Tuesday. Click here.

Blue Monday Don't Fence Me In

2012-01-16T07:40:00.000-08:00

Last Monday Sally shared a blue fence near her home. It gave me the idea to see what I could find.
Enjoy . . .

First I found just a simple Blue structure. Not sure it is a fence maybe a barn wall. I would love to have a barn this color. I could just imagine hanging a finished quilt on it for a photo shoot!

Then I found . . .

This adorable fence. I imagine it is a an 'old ladies' fence. I could see this at my grandmothers. I am speaking kindly of the 'old ladies' here. I am one of them! And then I found . . .

Another great example. I wish I could virtually put all these together for my dream home. But of course it would also include . . .

A cat because of course there is the barn and where there is a barn there are mice. Ick and EEEK! And by the way my cat would not be walking along the fence to stalk the birdies in our bird houses!
And then of course it would include . . .

This one was my favorite. Which BTW gave me the name for this post.

Of course my dream home would always have a dog!

Thanks for coming by. And don't forget to visit Sally!

Read On Week Two Re-Cap

2012-01-15T19:37:00.000-08:00

How was your week Reading On? I love this new photo. I think it will be perfect for a Read On button!

I would love one! Does anyone know how to make one?

This re-cap starts with a huge I am Sorry!

Yep I have to ask you sweet Read On girls to forgive my lack of encouragement on week two.

My only excuse is I had a hard time logging on my phone.

But, the good news is I got the inter-net today.

Yea

I am Happy, Happy, Happy!

So from now on I'll be stopping over to say hi. I will be encouraging you and writing a lot more posts.

I hope to write regular Read On posts and I am going to work on the Read On blog. Stay tuned on that.

And now for my Week Two Re-cap my week reading was pretty normal.

I didn't read on the weekend which is probably going to be the norm for me. We are just so busy. Most Saturdays we are finishing up preparing for Sunday morning. And then on Sunday we have church. In case you don't know my husband (Cowboy) is a chaplain at a boys detention center. I do the music for the services. We love it but it is really, really stressful. Usually on Sunday afternoon we come home have lunch and then just wind down. Usually we end up having a nap. So not much Reading On.

The rest of the week I did manage to read everyday a little. I completed Ezra and Nehemiah. Both books were amazing to me. Reading about the dedication of both of these men is inspiring. I also read the devotionals in Men of the Bible it really helped me to understand what I was reading. I think what got me most was there discription about how the 'people' kept falling away from God. Makes me wonder why he puts up with us? As I read I was sad that they just couldn't get it right.

After I finished Nehemiah I decided to read Psalms. I read 37 and 38. It was the end of the week and after reading Ezra and Nehemiah I decided I need something a little easier to read.

Tomorrow starts week 3. I am happy with my accomplishments so far. I am taking this challenge very seriously. But I am also not pressuring myself with this. I guess basically because I don't want to expect too much of myself and then not follow through.

I really need your encouragement and prayers. So far I have

actually looked forward to reading. Which is new for me. I feel your prayers!

I will be around much more now that I have the inter-net so I'll encourage you more. I do pray for you everyday.

I am looking forward to hearing what your reading and how it is going with you. Please post or email or comment and let me know how your doing. If you need specific prayer please let me know!

And, invite someone to join us!

Have a great week . . .

Read On

Wordfilled Wednesday redo

2012-01-10T11:24:00.000-08:00

Today I thought it would be fun to repost a previous WFW with a change . . .

The first time I posted this photo and verse I didn't know how to put the words on the photo!

Yea!

I hope you like the 2012 revision.

It is perfect for my goal this year . . .

My goal in case your a new visitor. (Thanks for stopping in) is to Read the Bible this year!

Read On

Wanna join me and Read On? Just leave a comment.

Check out my other Bible posts!

Reading along the Journey . . .

Read The Bible --Titus Tuesday

2012-01-10T10:48:00.001-08:00

I was still thinking about how I wanted to write my Read On post this morning. And while I was thinking I thought I would visit Darlene at Time Warped Woman and check out her post for Titus Tuesday.

Funny thing she was kind of thinking the same thing today.

I/we are thinking about those goals or resolutions or plans made for . . .

My biggest goal this year is to Read the Bible. You'll be seeing Read On a lot around here this year and on my comments on your posts too! It started with my desire to Read The Bible. The whole Bible this year. And, I knew I needed help and encouragement so I asked some bloggy friends to join me. BTW this is your invitation!
Then as I began to write posts and listen to what some other sweet sista's were saying I realized that maybe just managing to read everyday is a huge challenge. And actually it is for me too. And so the idea of reading the Whole Bible may be more than some of us can wrap our minds around!

After realizing that I was actually even more challenged and excited . . .

It actually was a little liberating. Because it didn't seem like such a huge task.

I know there are some of us that find it difficult to find a minute or two for ourselves.

And so, dear sweet sista's I give you permission to just read what you can. LOL. But just do it!
I would love for you to join us. Whether your challenge is reading everyday a little or a lot.
Join us! I am here to encourage you.

Please leave a comment on any Bible post or send me an email. I will pray for you everyday. I will send you emails and visit your blog just to encourage you.

So if your considering 'throwing in the towel' on your goals for the year, don't do it! go over to Darlene's for her great and encouraging Titus Tuesday post . Click here.

And don't forget my invite to join us!
Read On . . .

Blue Monday Gone to the dogs

2012-01-07T13:48:00.000-08:00

Daisy asked to hostess Blue Monday today. Here's a few photo's she chose.
Enjoy!

Read on Week One re-cap

2012-01-07T13:41:00.000-08:00

Well I finished my first week. Well actually the first five days. I hadn't really decided this for sure but in the back of my head I was thinking of only Reading On during the weekdays. My weekends are usualy a little chaotic. I don't want to 'expect' to read on Saturday and Sunday and then not make it it.

I ended the week reading Lamentations. I only got through I think 4 chapters. But I did finish reading Chronicles. It actually took me a day longer than I wanted. On Thursday I ended up so tired that I only read 2 chapters. I hate to say it but it did put me to sleep. Well actually I am sure it wasn't God's word that put me to sleep. Just the sitting still for a few minutes. But as I was reading I couldn't keep my eyes open. It was frustrating because I had planned to finish on Thursday.

Last night when I was reading I was tired again that is why I only got through two chapters. I hope that I will find sometime this weekend to finish the book.

It is kind of a funny feeling but I am really wanting to do this. It has only been a few days and I actually put off doing other things that I really want to do in order to read. Read On! Whoop! Whoop! It is a good feeling for me.

I was kind of thinking in my mind...I hadn't actually verbalized it that if I can do this for 21 days that it will become habit. At least that is what I hear. But I am kind of thinking that I am not going to have to 'depend' on the 'habit'. At least I hope that is how it turns out!

I hope that you are getting to read everyday. Whether it is a couple of chapters like I did on my tired days. Or more. It doesn't matter how many. What matters is your doing it.

I hope that my emails and comments are encouraging you. It is my desire to help you do this.

I pray that you all have a great weekend. And btw if you haven't read my Saturday Sleepover post check it. I had a great time writing it.

See you on Monday. Read On! and Pass it On get some sista's to join!

Saturday Sleepover at Sweet Cottage Dreams

2012-01-07T13:11:00.000-08:00

I have been dreamin' of visitin' my sweet blogging friend Becky and so I decided to get Daisy and just pop on over to Northern California and visit at Sweet Cottage Dreams.
In only took a nano second to arrive and here's what was waiting for us . . .

Daisy was so happy to finally meet Mr. Dughall and Miss Fiona. They were so happy for us to arrive! They had been waiting hours and hours.

and of course sweet Miss Becky baked. I told her not to but ever the perfect hostess she had to have something sweet waiting at the Sweet Cottage. Yummy and btw here's the link to her post with the recipe.

And when she heard we were coming she decided to stop putting away the Christmas decoations so we could see them.

And of course I had to see some of the crafty things she has made. Do you see a red theme here? Yep she is a 'red' girl. And very creative.

I love all the collections around her house. Just like me she loves aprons. And then finally we made it to the sweet guest room that is what actually lured me here in the first place.

And then we stayed up till the wee hours in the morning talking and talking and talking. About this and that. About sewing, about the dogs, about decorating, about cooking and about shopping. And then we finally decided to call it a night. Partly because Daisy was so tired and she was asleep and snoring. And partly because I talked Becky into taking me shopping. So we went to bed to rest up.

After breakfast click here for her recipe. We hit the streets. And what a fun time we had. I had been wanting to see all the neat places she has found. We shopped till we dropped!

And then sadly we had to go. Because we really needed to get back to the real world. But it was fun pretending to actually visit Becky. And, you can visit too. Just click here and be transported in a nano-second to Sweet Cottage Dreams. And you know Becky if you let her know your coming she'll bake something!

And so we left our sweet friends behind and in a nano-second we were home. And we found this photo waiting for us.

Dughall and Fi already miss Daisy!

We had such a fun time on our sleepover. Which btw was actually Friday night but Saturday Sleepover sounded better. LOL. Anyway we had so much fun that we decided to make this a weekly thing. And so next Friday we will be visiting another sweet friend. It's a secret but we are going to Missouri! And, maybe I'll get to stop at my kids too!

Thanks for stopping in. Have a great day. And see you next Saturday!

Saturday Sleepover

2012-01-06T11:05:00.000-08:00

I had this idea. I have all these sweet bloggy friends. And I just love visiting them. I thought that you might like to also.

So I decided to pack up a few things . . .

And take a drive along the coast. And maybe stop over for a night or two. Wanna come along?

Since this is a virtual sleepover. You don't really have to pack. You don't really have to even change clothes. Just come along and meet some of my favorite friends.

Starting tomorrow I'll be visiting a Sweet Cottage in Northern California. Oh but btw since this is a sleepover we will be staying up really, really late. And sleeping in. So don't expect my post before noon. Or later; depending on how good breakfast is and how much shopping we do!

Gotta run and get Daisy all packed and ready to go and visit her friends!

See ya on the Journey . . .

Daily Bible Reading . . . Do you?

2012-01-06T10:32:00.000-08:00

Last week I began Read On . . .the Read through the Bible in 2012 challenge. I invited you to join me in Reading through the Bible in 2012.

Today I am writing to those of you out there that just can't commit. Those of you that struggle even to find time to read a novel. Or maybe even go to the bathroom alone.

I really do remember those days with toddlers. How you just 'live' for nap time so you can have some 'Me' time. And, then the pre-school days and early elementary when your running kids to soccer or ballet or church activities.

I remember the days when I picked up my Bible on Sunday morning. Never to pick it up again until the next Sunday. And, honestly I have to admit those days aren't only long ago. There were more days in 2011 that I didn't pick up my Bible than I care to admit.

It happens to all of us. We all go through times when we're just too busy.   At least we 'feel' too busy.   Because I would venture to guess that if we just opened our heart to God and sat down and took a minute or two and just opened His Word that in that few minutes of time the stress and challenge of the day would seem to not be so big.

And so, dear sweet friends. I am asking you. I am inviting you to a party. A party of like minded friends. Join us in Reading your Bible everyday in 2012. I am not asking or challenging you to read the entire Bible. (Although that is what I am trying to do.)

But I am challenging you to just read it. And honestly this might be an easier challenge for me.

If you struggle with 'finding time' I ask you to join us. Please email, or send a text or leave a comment on any one of my Bible posts. Also, sign up to get my posts by email. I will pray for you everyday. I will encourage you to Read On everyday.

To get you started here's a couple of suggestions . . .

Find a ~~quiet place~~ . . . or not . . .

No quiet time in your life. This is something I have wanted to do with my 3 year old grandson. To spend time with your toddler reading God's word will build a foundation. He/she won't understand but their little hearts will be filled. They will love just hearing your voice. And, they will love just snuggling with you for a few minutes.

Or how about . . .

Phones, Ipods and Kindles wow. You can read anywhere. Just think of the possibilities. Even while the kids are at practise, or waiting in line to pick them up at school. Or even at work. But only on break! LOL. Or here's one of my favorite places . . .

Beside the water. Is there a lovely fountain near your office? Or in my case a walk down the road to the lake. I love living by the water. It is quiet and peaceful.

So here's the challenge, the invite . . . just read what you can today. Just read what you can tomorrow. Don't set yourself up for failure. Just read a little. Maybe today it is one verse, maybe two. Maybe tomorrow it is three. Maybe the next day it is only one verse again. Just whatever you can manage just work it in.

I am praying for you. And, please pray for me. Because I need encouragement too. Let's encourage each other to Read On . . . Reading along the Journey,

Reading The Bible #4

2012-01-06T09:53:00.000-08:00

I am so happy to be getting emails, messages and comments from wonderful sisters who are joining me in the Read On challenge.

Your comments are amazing and encouraging to me. I know this is something that many of us struggle with.

I want to ask again for your sweet prayers. I need encouragement. But more than that I need guidance. I feel the Lord leading me to really do something with this challenge. I have already been talking about it on facebook. And, I am talking to close friends and encouraging them.

I really feel like this can be bigger than this little blog. And so, I am seriously thinking about starting a blog dedicated only to Read On. Would you guys pray with me about this.

There are a couple of reasons I am thinking about this . . .

#1 There are days that I am not able to post. And, I think it would actually be fun to have some of you write a post to encourage us. I want to have an encouraging post up everyday. And, I want us to share with each other what we are reading. And, what we are learning. And maybe how we are putting into action God's commands.

#2 I want to encourage more ladies to join us. And, I want to put links to everyone's blogs. I think with a dedicated blog it will be much easier and we can actually make it private up to 100 readers if we decide to.

So, if you think this might be a good idea please let me know. If you don't think so please tell me and tell me why. I will not have my feelings hurt.

But, I don't want this to be what I want. I want it to be what God wants. Please pray for me as I seek his will and his guidance.

And, to remind you I am praying for you every day. I have a prayer that I wrote that is inside my Bible. Everyday when I pick it up and open to where I am reading I pray for each of you and what you are reading.

Especially for the time being since I can't always post everyday I hope you are signed up to receive my posts via email. Be patient with me because on the days that I do get to post sometimes I'll write 2 or 3 posts.

I am trying to get ahead and write Bible posts ahead so I can publish from my phone. Pray about that for me too; please.

Praying you all have a wonderful weekend. Enjoy worshiping our Lord this weekend. If you don't have a place of worship I encourage you to seek out a fellowship of Believers. There is nothing like it.

Reading On . . . . On The Journey,

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-05T10:46:00.000-08:00

Today I am simply Thankful I am writing a post!

No inter-net at home is doing me in. I am trying to smile about it and continue with a positive attitude

I am also Thankful that God has a plan for this year I look forward to what is in store.

I am thankful that God has challenged me to read my Bible this year. And that I listened!

Is he challenging you? Join me and let's Read the Bible through in 2012.

Thank you Laurie for hosting Thankful Thursday. Click here to follow the links.

Read On . . .

Read On 2012

2012-01-05T10:34:00.000-08:00

I have to say I am truly, truly sorry I have not posted in a few days. And, I have to ask you for prayer.   I was disappointed and frustrated when I wasn't able to post. And when I found out there is something wrong with my blog.    I don't have the inter-net at home and so I have to go to a friends house or go to a wifi spot.

I feel attacked. Circumstances over the last few days have kept me from posting. And it makes me actually angry. But I am trying to stifle the anger and trust in God's timing and provision.

I pray someday soon I will be able to have the inter-net again.

But until then. I will still be visiting everyone's blogs on my phone and occasionally leaving comments. Please forgive me in advance. I can't seem to figure out how to spell check on my phone!   I have figured out how to publish already written posts. So hopefully I'll get some time to pre-write some posts and publish from my phone.

With all that said let's get to the real purpose of this post. Reading On. I like that little catchy title.

Today I wanted to share what I have been doing. I have not actually adopted a 'reading plan'. I have tried plans in the past and as I have mentioned failed. And so this year I have decided to use my own plan. And so far 4 days in (LOL) it is working!

I think really it is more about my heart working than an actual plan. But, here's what I have been doing. I decided that 10 Chapters was a good amount to read in a setting so then I began reading Chronicles.   Why you wonder? Because I don't think I have ever read it before. If I did I got bored and quit. But this time I only have a few chapters left. I have been totally engrossed in it. So much that I have wanted to read more.   As I have been reading I remembered a book I have.

This is a great devotional book. It takes specific Women of the Bible and tells their story as a story. Each story refers to the scripture. There is also a topical lesson about living in Bible times. It is short only a few pages. But it makes the story seem to 'come alive." And, it is written to be studied over 5 days. I don't know how committed I'll actually be to the 5 days part but they are short lessons and only have a few questions. Each one I have done in one setting. Because that works for me right now.

If your looking for a devotional this one is great. And, there is a Men of the Bible book too!

Right now this is working for me. So what is working for you? Do you have a reading plan?

Or are you just challenging yourself to actually reading everyday. I like that plan. It is actually my primary goal!

I have been praying for all of you. I know there are lots of sisters out there that are challenging themselves to Reading the Bible this year.

I would love to have you join our little group.

Please email me or leave me a comment and let me know your . . .

Reading On

test post

2011-12-30T13:39:00.001-08:00

Bible 2012 part Two

2011-12-30T10:41:00.000-08:00

First . . . Thank you to all of you who have already commented or emailed about my challenge. Your sweet comments and emails honesty Blessed me.

So with that said it brings me to a couple more comments and confessions. Mine; about the subject of reading the Bible through in 2012.

As I said yesterday I have made the attempt many times. But as I think about it now I realize a couple of reasons why I failed so miserably.

Here's a couple of reasons I tried before . . .

A legalistic attitude . . . sounds kind of strange dosen't it? But; as I thought about it. I realized that some of those times I was trying to be able to check of a mark in my Sunday School quarterly. (anyone remember those?)

I am wondering how many of us have tried and tried because they heard a pastor or a teacher. Or even a friend talk about or encourage you to Read the Bible this year!

And how many of us me included tried for this reason. And, failed miserably.

#2. It's good for 'me'. It'll help 'me' get closer to God.
'Me' yep. What a good reason for 'me'. To help 'me'

Yes just like beause someone else suggested it. Doing it for 'me' is actually a very good and valuable reason but let's face it if it worked for 'ME' I probably wouldn't be writing this post.

And so this year I want to do it Just Because. Yep no other reason. Not because someone told me to. Not because I want to check of a box in a quarterly. Not because I want to learn more about the Bible. And all the other 'good' reasons.

Just Because . . . God said to. Yep. That's right.
Obediance. For me I think that the big key at least for me right now is obediance. I want to please my father.

But, your thinking in away all those other reasons are being obediant. And actually they are. And I think you'll agree that it's our mind set that will spur us on and keep us going. We have to determine to do this. For all those reasons and many more. And Just Because.

But,we are human and we fail. And so that is why we need each other. We need each other for . . .

I need your help. I need you sweet sister to pray me through this challenge. And, I want to lift you up and pray for you and with you daily as we go through this Journey together.

I want to begin today praying for you. Some of you I don't even know yet. But I know that there are sweet sisters out there feeling a longing to Obediently following the Father. And are ready to jump in and join me and take this challenge.

And there are some sweet friends that I am praying will decide to join. In fact I'll be emailing and commenting on your posts and walls ane inviting you!

Those of you that have already joined me I began praying for you as soon as I received your email.

And, I am praying for your weekend. I pray that you have a peaceful and stressless next few days. I pray that you and your family are safe throughout this weekend.

And I look forward to starting fresh on Monday and begin our Journey through the . . .

Thanks again for joining me. It is my plan to actually begin reading together with you on Monday.
Tomorrow I hope to write another post to encourage you and others to join us. If you haven't already please sign up to receive my posts via email. And, when you do either email me or write a comment on any post and let me know your joining us! See you tomorrow!

Reading The Bible in 2012

2011-12-29T10:45:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wanted to read the Bible through in a year and never quite made it?

Have you felt the desire to grow closer to God; but things get in the way?

Do you pray 'when you think about it'?

I am going to be real and honest and say . . . Yes. (Embarrasing as it is). . .

This year I am challenging myself to follow through and Grow Closer to God, Pray more like everyday, and . . .
Read the Bible through this year. Yes, yep, Uh hu, Si the whole thing!

And, because you are my dear sweet friend, my dear sweet sister I am asking you to join me in accepting this challenge.

I am not sure how this will work, I am thinking that . . .

No matter what version you want to read. Or what type of plan you want to use . . .

It doesn't matter. Whether your Bible is brand new. Or worn with age . . .

I am Praying that you will join me and Read The Bible in . . .

I would love to do this together. So, leave me a comment, send an email, message me on facebook or heck call me if you want and let's chat about how to do this together. We have a few days to work out the details. So let's pray together and lift each other up, challenge and encourage each other this year!

On my Journey through the Bible this year . . .

Thankful Thursday Bye Bye 2011

2011-12-29T10:17:00.000-08:00

Wow! Where do I begin? First let me get this out there . . . I am very, very Thankful that 2011 is coming to a close. Because this is a thankful post I won't dwell on all the reasons why. Onto the Thankfulness . . .

#1 I am thankful that I am writing this post today. I haven't had inter-net for most of the year and my posts have been few and far between. But I am still here. I miss you guys! I do read your posts on my phone. Which leads me to . . .

#2 I am thankful that I get the inter-net on my phone. And that I have been able to keep my phone on most of the year. I love our no contract service! If your looking at cutting down on expenses for the New Year check into a no-contract service. I get talk,text and inter-net unlimited $40.00 a month. I haven't found anything cheaper.

#3. Probably should be #1 but . . . I am thankful that God has been with us all this year. I am thankful for His provision and His timing. I am thankful for the lessons he is still teaching me. And I am thankful that he is patient even when I am slow in learning those lessons!

#4. And another big one that could be #1 in it's own right . . .

. . . I am thankful that my grandson had a Birthday party given by his little friends and their mommy's. He turned 3 one week before his momma finally made the decision to separate from her husband. Because of the seperation we had to cancel his party. So a couple of weeks later their friends gave him a party! It has been an extremely hard year (3 years for him. . . 5 for her) But, they are safe. They are happy and getting happier everyday. And, I pray that God continues to keep them safe while they go through the next phase. Court. It is dreaded but we will be singing Praises when it is over and they can move on. I cannot express to you how hard it is to see your daughter and grandchildren go through these kind of situations. I am Thankful God has been with her every step of the way.

And, I am thankful that 2012 is around just around the corner . . .
I look forward to 2012 and His promises and a New Journey!

Wordfilled Wednesday Dec. 14

2011-12-14T09:58:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Wordfilled Wednesday . . .

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come back and take you to be with me that you may be where I am. " John 14:1-3

Last Saturday night I went with my daughter to church. The pastor made a comment about Christmas and Easter and how some people only go to church for these two events.

Then on Sunday Cowboy happened to use this photo in his powerpoint.

I got to thinking again about the people that only worship at Christmas and Easter. And, about what they are missing.

At our daughters church they were passing out invites for their Christmas services. I pray that many people will pass them out and that lots and lots of people will come. I know the services will be a Blessing! I pray that those that are there are touched.

It's my prayer today that someone might be touched by these words and remember that God is with you everyday. That no matter where you are. Or whatever circumstances you are in he is in control. If you believe in Him. Trust in Him. He will be with you. His word promises it!

That's reason for Praise.

Merry Christmas! And don't forget to go over and visit the other WFW posts.
Click here.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-11-28T15:49:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... At my daughters adopted families house. I spy a Paint horse, a Palomino horse, a pig named 'Sherman Rocket' (because he came from Sherman, Texas and runs around like a 'rocket') a trailer full of hay for the winter. And green grass.

I am thinking... I love visiting here. I

I am thankful... I know I sound like a broken record but I am so thankful God is taking care of my daughter. And that we are in her life again!

From the learning rooms...(if this applies) Me...how to machine quilt.

In the kitchen...At home I left a little brisket in the crockpot and 4 cooked hamburger patties for Cowboy who is a bachelor this week. If he doesn't remember to pick me up on Wednesday he'll have to start eating ramen noodles! Bet he remembers. Oh here we're having mac and cheese and fish sticks. (and I am going to raid the fridge and see if there is anything left from Thanksgiving! My daughter is working late that's why I am here.

I am wearing...warm clothes, sweat pants and a long sleeve t-shirt. It got cold here over night!

I am creating...My first ever t-shirt quilt. It is turning out really big and is a huge challenge. I hope I finish it tomorrow.

I am going... no where!

I am wondering... If I can get everything done while I am here that is on my list!

I am reading...nothing right now I just finished a couple of books from the Tiny Blessings series from Steeple Hill publishers. Writing a review when I get back home!

I am hoping...that we get the inter-net back on Friday. Tried Clear didn't work. Changing to Virgin ( I don't like that name) I hope we can get a good signal!

I am looking forward to...tree decorating tonight. (photo's tomorrow) and Friday night Christmas party at the children's home where my daughter works and where our horse lives.

I am hearing...silence at least for another few minutes. The baby (3 year old...I need to stop calling him that!) is asleep. He plays hard on Mondays at church.

Around the house... here roomyness....at home well the exact opposite.

I am pondering... my favorite Christmas memories

One of my favorite things...a sweet boy (I said boy. wow) walking into the room after a nap! He is adorable

A few plans for the rest of the week: finishing 'said' quilt, getting my Christmas decorations out of storage, Drama Team on Wednesday and party on Friday.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

He woke up and chose the photo.
Join Peggy for more daybook entries. Click here

Enjoying the Journey . . .

I'm Dreamin of a _________________

2011-11-24T14:54:00.000-08:00

Blue Christmas . . .

I was thinking of Christmas and a few thoughts came to mind . . .

I'll need a few new Blue ornaments . . .

And some Blue lights . . .

But alas none in the atic! Oh no. I really,really need Blue Lights . . .

so I'll have to hop in the car and go buy some . . .

But you know I really need a new tree. So while I'm buying new shiny Blue ornaments and lights. I'll just pick up a new tree.

Maybe one like this one . . . No. Too small. Just because I live in a bungalow who says I can't have a big tree.

Now that is more like it. But hmmm. Needs a little more . . .

Glitz. Or maybe not soooooooo much sparkle.

Or a little primitive. A little shiny. A little glittery.

Oh I just don't know . . . All this thinking and shopping and fighting the crowds is just making me sooooooo hungry!

So I'll stop for just a tiny little bite of something sweet. And order a Dr. Pepper and think about what to do.

And just think about all my ideas. And then I saw this darling little pink and purple tree. And another being decorated. What a smart kitty!

And then all the ideas got all jumbled up. And . . .

Oh I just give up. I'll just get some help with all this decorating!

We'll I am done with my decorating. I think I'll go over and see Sally at Blue Monday (click here) . And then I'll stop over and check out the Mosaic Monday (click here) posts for a little inspiration. Just got back from Mary's. Loved her post. She shared gift ideas for doggies!

WordFilled Wednesday

2011-11-23T22:06:00.000-08:00

I was thinking of a verse to illustrate and these words came to mind.

Enter His gates with Thanksgiving and His courts with Praise. Psalm 100:4

The next thing that came to mind was a garden gate. I thought of stepping inside a quiet peaceful garden and feelings God's presence.

And,stepping into that garden whether virtual or real I feel His presence. I feel His peace. And I Praise Him. And I am Thankful.

Happy Thanksgiving . . .
Thanks for coming along on the Journey . . .

Here's the linky go over and join or check out more beautiful illustrations. Click Here

Did you see the question just above this post. Please check out my question of the week and leave a comment with your answer! Pretty please!

Mosaic Monday(on Tuesday)Titus Tuesday . . Establish the work . . .

2011-11-21T13:59:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Titus 2Days

I began this post yesterday to include the following mosaic but I wasn't able to load the above photo.
I wanted to repost only the above photo today and link to Titus Tuesday but our inter-net connection had other ideas. LOL

Today I wanted to tell a little about the pumpkin carving party that my daughter hosted a couple of weeks ago. And a little about where she is right now.

I have mentioned my Thankfulness many times on Thursday for various things concerning her. And I am very Thankful that God has heard our prayers. I am thankful he has brought her through a rough time and that she is on the way to being whole again.

For the past 6 years she has been in an emotionally abusive relationship. It was not physical only because the abuser knew how to control his anger and not actually ever hit her. (Walls were o.k. to hit . . . this I only found out about a couple of weeks ago) Last May after many, many prayers God gave her the strength to leave the marriage. She is now living with a Godly couple that are our age and have a huge house and lots of room for her and our grandson. This is a little hard for me especially because what mother wouldn't want their lost and hurting child with them? But I know God is in control and he has her right where she needs to be.

In August she celebrated a year of employment at a local Children's home where she teaches horse back riding. This is significant in her story for many reasons. One year ago she did not have a support network. And her husband was pushing her to take another corporate job. Her first step toward 'survival' she took the job at the Children's home.

At that time she had no one to turn to but her father and I. But, because of the brainwashing that comes with an abusive relationship we are the last person(s) that she will turn to. She was isolated from friends and other family members. But, she began to develope friendships with Godly women by teaching their children how to ride. These friendships developed. She developed a friendship with her supervisor also and when she finally left the marriage her supervisor went to the Director of the children's home and they took up a love offering for her. God supplied her needs. Another family had a car that they could sell to her.

The last few months have been difficult. The phone calls and emails from her husband are constant. The topics go from 'I miss you..." to " Your a bad person because..." It is a roller coaster of emotions.

But even though all this she is going on in her life she has begun to turn a corner and she is reaching out to others.

She is in church every week. And goes to a ladies Bible Study every Monday morning. Last Saturday her church had baby dedication. When she learned about it they said that the 'cut off' was 3 years old. Our grandson is 3 1/2. She was talking to the Children's director and started to cry and said "I wasn't allowed."
She told him a little about her situation and of course they said we could do the dedication.

So Saturday she walked up on stage and dedicated him to the Lord. Praise God she was 'allowed'!

And, she is serving others. A few weeks ago she hosted the Pumpkin carving party. She invited a couple of preschooler friends and some teenagers that she is acquainted with at the children's home. The three teenagers were at the dedication. Two are teenage boys living at the home. They have been there 8 years. They are great 'jungle gyms' for our grandson. They throw him around like he is a football and run and chase him. They play super hero's and football and soccer together. They ride horses together. They go bowling and ice skating.

As our daughter opens her heart to others. As she serves God by giving these kids a little fun she is Blessed. And she grows. And God restores her and ever so slowly she is becoming whole.

I shared this post for a couple of reasons. During this holiday season you might have a family that is whole and intact. You might be planning a Thanksgiving dinner with all your loved ones. You might be out shopping and making plans for Christmas. You might be decorating your tree or trees!

Or you might have loved ones that are in situations that keep them away from you. A child in the military or living in another state.

Do you have a child in an abusive relationship?

I don't have any answers.

Because there have been many days that I have had to just 'give up' in a way and just turn it over to God and force myself not think and worry about them.

But I do know that God wants us to love each other. I do know that stepping out of our comfort zone and doing something kind for someone else is what God wants us to do.

It might be something as simple as hosting a Pumpkin Carving party. Since it is a little late for that now . . . How about a coffee or tea for a friend, or maybe a cookie exchange. Or maybe you could just invite a mom over and have a play date with the kids.

Maybe you have older kids and you know a couple with kids that left for college this year. Or away and won't be home for the holidays. Or a senior adult who will be alone for the holidays.

If you think about it the ideas and endless! I hope that this holiday season you have a wonderfully Blessed time. I hope and pray that your family will be together. And I hope and pray that you can be a Blessing to someone else.

Father God thank you for our families. Thank you for the holidays and the time we will share with our loved ones. Father I ask you to give us the opportunity to share our faith with someone else just by gently loving them or by doing an act of kindness.

linking with Mosaic Monday (click Here) and Titues Tuesday (click Here)

Establishing The Work Of Our Hands Along The Journey,

A Simple Day on the Journey

2011-11-21T12:36:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... A nice fall day a little brisk, I love sweater weather . . . the cat

sitting at the door ready to come in for a nap

I am thinking... I am happy to be writing a post today

I am thankful... I/we are spending Thanksgiving with our daughter and she gets to cook and have us over

From the learning rooms... me...God gives me what I need. . .
I said to the Lord, "You are my Lord apart from you I have no good thing." Psalm 16:2.

In the kitchen...Chicken and Rice for tonight. An old family favorite from our favorite Mexican resturant

I am wearing...Blue sweat pants or pink ministry t-shirt and heart socks (they were on top of the stack) and no shoes at the moment my feet are up.

I am creating... An atmosphere of Love in our home (trying)

I am going... to the library tonight or tomorrow I need another book!

I am wondering...What our next step will be

I am reading...will be reading the 1st or 3rd in Di Mills Serve and Protect Series as soon as I get to the library. Just finished 2 and looking forward to another

I am hoping... God will reveal his plan for the ministry soon

I am looking forward to... Christmas

I am hearing... an airplane flying over and then silence. I forgot to turn the radio back on after lunch

Around the house...too much we are outgrowing our little bungalow, need to rotate things and put stuff back in storage to make room for Christmas!

I am pondering...what I will be writing about tomorrow

One of my favorite things...Dr. Pepper I need one

A few plans for the rest of the week: Wednesday deliver Thanksgiving meals with the boys from the Ranch, Thanksgiving day with our daughter, and Thanksgiving Praise and Worship at the Ranch

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

A little teaser for my post tomorrow. A photo tour of our towns Main Street hosted by my Cowboy

Enjoying the Simple Journey today . . .

For more daybook posts join Peggy at A Simple Woman. Click Here.

______

Why I am Not Blue

2011-11-21T09:24:00.000-08:00

Yep I am not Blue today. But I am joining Sally for Blue Monday. Here is why I am Not Blue in photo's...

Because God promises to always give us everything we need.
Sometimes it may not be in our timing but he provides.
This weekend I got inter-net. Yea!
I am thankful that God hears our requests and our cries and answers our prayers!

I am Thankful that God gives me a place to live and I just happen to have this view. (at the end of the road). I have always wanted to live by the water. God answers our prayers.

I said to the Lord, "You are my Lord apart from you I have no good thing." Psalm 16:2.

God answered our prayers and brought us to a small town to live. A shot of our Main Street. With Blue sky and a blue awning on one of my favorite places. Come tomorrow for a tour of Main Street. Tour guide my very own Cowboy. You won't want to miss it!

And one more pretty blue photo . . . A tease so what do you think my topic next Monday is?

On My Not Blue Journey . . .

And don't forget to visit Sally for Blue Monday! Click Here

wow from my phone test

2011-11-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

Thankful Thursday

2011-11-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping in today! I am so Thankful for your visit! I need to add you to my Thankful list!

First off I am Thankful that I live in Texas. I love it! I have lived other places for a short while but my heart belongs in Texas. Probably because of these . . .

I am Thankful that even though we live in a growing suburban area that I can see these. Maybe not this many at a time but there are still a few ranches around. And sometimes when we're driving we get to see a few horses. Well actually every time we go to our boys facility (where we are Chaplains) we see a nice little string of horses. There is a riding stable just down the road.

Today I am also thank that . . .

I don't have to type on this nostalgic piece of equipment. Although fun to look at; I am sooooooooo thankful for my computer! I love it especially because through it I get to communicate with you.

I am also thankful for eye candy like this. That because of the internet we can surf around and see lovely little photo's like this. This one compliments of Martha Stewart. I would love to have a little area in a yard to set up like this!

And I am thankful that we will spend Thanksgiving with our daughter. I am looking forward to Thanksgiving.

So do you have a Thankful list today!

Thankfully on the Journey today . . .

Jelly Roll Quilts Book Review

2011-11-09T08:16:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading/looking at this book. It was great and I loved it so much I wanted to share it.
I checked it out at my local library.

The thing I like the best about the book is the directions and resources. Well I did love the patterns and the photo's but that is a given. You might have seen this book in catalogues and passed on it thinking you couldn't buy it or use it because your stash busting. Well this great book gives you the yardage needed even if your not using jelly rolls. In most cases you can simply cut X number of strips to make these awesome quilts. They even tell you how many fat quarters you can use!

Each set of instructions begins with Vital Statistics and a What you need box. Here's an example from
Bars of Gold on page 10. Their version made with Kaffe Fassett fabric. Ohhh La La!

Vital statistics
Quilt size 69x66in.
Block size: 8x10in.
Number of blocks: 40
plus 3 in wide sashing and border strips

and

What you need

One jelly roll or 40 2 1/2in strips cut the width of the fabric.
1.8m (71 in) of sashing and border fabric.
60cm (23 1/2" in) of fabric for binding.

The quilts in the book are awesome and gave me some great ideas. I wish I could show you the Bars of Gold it really is Ohh LaLa!

But I did find a consumer quilt posted on Amazon and a couple of images from the book. Here's the consumers quilt.

This one is Sparkling Gemstones from the book. Click here for the Amazon link.

And here's a couple of pages found on Amazon.

This is the page that shows the Vital statistics and What you need box and a description. I loved this one called Pandora's box The book quilt used Japanese taupes I loved the greys, blacks,browns and taupes reminded me of stones. It is on my list to do. Oh I see a Pinterest page (is that what you call it?) coming on.

And then who doesn't just love a Log Cabin. The instructions are simple and clear and I love how they tell you exactly how much fabric you will need including how many fat quarters to equal the amount of strips. I am a fat quarter girl!

I love the Jelly Rolls but I am working on a use up that Stash budget. Hopefully once my Christmas sewing is done I'll be making something from this book.

Have you looked for quilt books at your library?

I was asked . . . so here it is . . .

2011-11-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

I had a dear sweet friend ask me how she could pray for me. And, I realized that I have been really needing prayer but I just haven't asked.

I have been really, really struggling in a couple of areas.   There have been days that I have not even been able to put into words what I need again. And so I have cried and I have prayed that the Holy Spirit would know my heart, my fears and my need.

#1 Please pray for our daughter. Long story short she has been in a emotionally abusive relationship for 5 years (married). She is now safely living with some friends of our family and she has filed for divorce.

But she has it in her head that they can 'agree' on visitation without going to court.

Even after her attorney has recommended not to allow visits till the court tells her she has to.   She is meeting her husband at the park alone when no one is available. And, this Friday she is allowing the 3 year old to spend the night at his dad's.   It took 3 years for her to leave.   I am so afraid that he will weasel his way back in. I am so afraid that he will threaten her and she will go back.   I am scared.

There were many days that all I could do was pray that God's will be done and just allow him to be in control.

#2 My other prayer request is ridiculous and so minor compared to my daughter and grandsons safety that I hate to bring it up but it really, really is hard for me. We struggle financially.
It's funny when I write this I have to smile because I think of the prayers that God has answered and then I am even feeling more stupid to even voice this. I prayed about a year ago that God would provide. I prayed for a place to live. I told Cowboy and I prayed that God would provide enough so we could pay rent and utlities. So I/we wouldn't have to worry about either one. God answered my prayer. Cowboy has a job and rent and utilities are paid every month. Sometimes with extensions but we haven't had the lights turned off! (In 2010 we were homeless for 2 months)

Here's the part I think is kind of funny. And the part I struggle with.
. . .
  I didn't ask him to provide for anything more. I didn't ask for money for food. Money for gas. Money to feed the dog and cat. Money for the vet.  Money for extras like the internet.

A few weeks ago a neighbor knocked on the door and asked to borrow 2 eggs. I had one egg. I gave it to him closed the door.
I knew when I gave him that egg it would be exactly 11 days till we could buy food again.

Don't get me wrong. We have food. We have learned how much money we have and we have learned to shop as wisely as possible.
We have learned that lots of things are alot cheaper at Dollar General or Dollar Tree.   I have never been one to feed the dog table scraps but now she gets green beans and chicken to stretch the dog food. And, long grain rice is cheap and stretches it too. And, I have learned to make perfect rice. (I used to buy minute rice because that is what my mother did.)

But here is my struggle cheap is not healthy. Cheap is potatoes and bread to fill you up. I cannot tell you the last time we bought fresh produce or fruit.

I struggle. I have learned to be satisfied with a lot and I have learned to be satisfied with little.

But, I miss my blog. I miss the internet. Right now I am at the library. I miss getting up in the middle of the night and writing. I miss my friends.  I can read your posts on my phone. I have learned to write posts ahead and then publish from my phone. But I haven't figured out how to link or even if you can from the phone. So, I miss Wordfilled Wednesday, Blue Monday, Thankful Thursday,Then Sings My Soul Saturday, Scripture on Sunday.

And, because I don't post regularly lots of my followers have quite coming around. I don't blame you.

I miss you.

I need your prayer.

Wordfilled Wednesday Proverbs 22:6

2011-11-08T14:07:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Wordfilled Wednesday on Tuesday . . .

I received this photo in an email from my daughter. They did a holiday photo shoot and I got a little tease photo! When I saw it this is the verse that immediately came to mind.

On November 19th we will be participating in Parent/Child dedication. I am Praising God that this verse is true. Even though she has had many struggles in the last 5 years she is faithfully following God as a single parent.

Praising God on the Journey . . .

Wordfilled Wednesday Nov. 2,2011

2011-11-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of her (paraphrased) hands--yes Lord
establish the work of her hands. Psalm 90:17.

Last Thursday I wrote that I am thankful that God has Blessed my relationship with my daughter. Today I share this photo to share how proud I am of her. Even in the midst of being seperated and filing for divorce she planned a party for some kids at the children's home where she works.

Last Friday night she had a pumpkin carving party for some of the kids. I am Blessed to see God moving in her life and making her whole again.

Thank you God for your word. Thank you God for my daughter. Thank you for your everlasting love for her.

Work In Progress

2011-11-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to share with you what I am working on. I know it won't be finished for Friday.
So I am joining in the WIP link party called Work in Progress. Here's my WIP.

A T-shirt quilt for my grandson . . .

This is a view of the entire top layed out on my bed. It is pieced in three sections. This is the best shot I could get. I'll explain at the end.

Here's the middle section that includes his name. The applique on the name was a huge challenge. When it is finished I'll share all my horror stories!

This is the left section. Isn't the turtle adorable?

And the right section. Most of the quilting is complete on it. O.K. I know now all you free machine quilters and long arm quilters are just cringing. This quilt is being completed in a quilt as you go method. The main reason is because of space.

Maybe this shot will give you an idea of what I mean.

This is the middle part pinned and ready for quilting. What you see at the bottom edge is wood. It is the foot of the bed. It is layered up and pinned to two tables. There is literally enough room for me to squeeze between my desk and the table on the left. And between the table and the closet on the right. The table is shooved up against the foot of the bed and there is maybe 3 foot between the edge of the table and the bathroom. This morning when I was ready to do the pinning process I realized there wasn't room for the ironing board. I had to warn Cowboy if he needed the facilities to do it now! I had to set the ironing board up in the bathroom. Then when I was ready for the top I ended up having to get him to help me because I couldn't hold it and squeeze around the side of the table to lay it out.

So that is why it is having to be quilted in sections. Litterally there is not enough room to lay the entire quilt out.

I was laughing to myself this morning as I was realizing this that God is either preparing me to live in a 5th wheel trailer or preparing me to appreciate the 8,000 square foot home he has planned for us!

Wonder which one it is?

So that's my WIP . . . once this is complete and my area is cleaned up and tidy again I'll take photo's so you can see just how tiny it is!

WIP is hosted over at Freshly Pieced. Click here.

Happy November

2011-11-01T16:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall All . . .

Had to share this sad little photo
He is unhappy because we got to the pumpkin patch and they were closed
Did not want to have his photo taken
This was last Friday afternoon before the 1st annual Zane's Pumpkin Carving Party
More photo's to share tomorrow
I have been working on the ministry website making changes for the last 4 hours and now I am exhausted
Whew

Here's a cropped version so you can see the little sad face better
Happy Fall

Blue Monday

2011-10-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

Are you a little Blue today?

I was a little Blue last Monday because I didn't get to link my post.

Click here to see it

Last week we had to change addresses. Not us personally but our ministry offices and warehouse. And, it made me a little blue as we said goodbye to some amazing people that donated space to us.

And so I thought I would search for a few blue mailboxs.

Actually the idea came from this phot I found at Oranizing Mama. I love this idea. So cute. What a great way to organize the kids.

Then I googled mail boxs and found this cute one.

And these. Wow lots of blue here!

And then well I got distracted because you see my birthday is coming up soon and I am thinking about cake. And I promise you that I am going to have cake this year!

Maybe not this big. Maybe not blue but I will have cake!

To join in Blue Monday (wheather your Blue or not) click here

BTW before you run over to Sally's did you notice my question at the top of the page? Would you mind leaving me a comment and answer my question of the week?

Smiling on a Blue Monday,

What a Friend

2011-10-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

What a friend we have in Jesus . . .

As I was thinking about the words of the song What a Friend We Have In Jesus this photo came to mind. How often do we think of sista friends before we think of Jesus as our friend. How often do we think of the Joy we have when we're with friends before we think of the Joy we need to have in Jesus.
If you think of the word Joy . . . think of it this way Jesus (zero)0 (nothing) You. There really is nothing between me and Jesus or at least there shouldn't be. There are many, many times that I cry out the words of a verse in Psalms Create in me a clean (pure) heart. I add the pure because I want my thoughs and my actions to be pure. Pure in that they are actions that God has put on my mind.
But too often I forget to treat him like my friend and ask his opinion. Too often I get in the middle of the day and look at the chaos around me and wonder 'why didn't I pray about my day before it started?'
The answer is simple really. I choose my sista friends first. I think first of checking my email and facebook before I pray for the day.

I pray today that tomorrow will be a better day. I pray today that tomorrow I will remember What a friend I have in Jesus.

Today I am linking with Charlotte at Spirtual Sundays. Click here to read more Sunday posts.

Did you see my question of the week at the top of my page? Would you leave a comment and let me know how you use photo's on your blog? Just leave a comment on any post.

Seeking Joy in Him on the Journey,

Then Sings My Soul Saturday

2011-10-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Then Sings My Soul Saturday. One of my favorite days of the week. I really love songs and singing about Jesus.

This one brings lots of memories back to me. I have looked for it before and never found a good version. Then today this one popped up.

I hope you enjoy and maybe it'll bring back some memories for you too!

Thanks to Amy Wyatt for hosting Then Sings My Soul Saturdays. Click here

Finishing It Up Friday

2011-10-27T10:07:00.000-07:00

Today I am joining Carla at Crazy Mama Quilts. She has a fun new linky on Friday where we quiltin' ladies post and link up quilts we finished this week.

Here's mine. And can I say I love it . . .

I do have to say I am embarrased at how long it took to finish!
I began this quilt; pieced and had it long arm quilted in the 80's! I was so unhappy with the quilting that it got put away. We ended up moving shortly afterward. It was meant to hang on the wall in my entryway then when we moved I just never finished it. ( The original pattern called for 1 1/2" strips. I cut mine 2 1/2" so it would fit on my wall. )

Well now I have a 3 year old grandson and I decided it was time to finish it!

You probably won't believe this but back in the 80's when I pieced it I had a hard time finding orange fabric. This is what I came up with. The darkest one is a Jenny Byer. I have a few scraps that made the many moves since piecing and finishing and I didn't remember to check for any other selvages to write this post. The eyes on the Jack o Latern; I am not real happy with and will probably change. Also the nose and the ghosts eyes are felt because I couldn't find my wool. Felt is a bad choice it sheds all over the white. I found my wool and did the ghosts mouth. I like it much better! I will probably change the felt pieces to wool.

I really like the binding. I like the color changes. I am really liking these kinds of bindings. I did make a huge mistake on it though. You see I haven't done bindings in a loooong time and I went to the original pattern instructions because that is what I had out. (I live in a one bedroom apartment. I sew in the bedroom. You should see under my bed! I'll save that for another post. This one is scary enough!) The instructions said cut strips 1 1/2" huge mistake in my opinion. I didn't realize my mistake until I had cut alot and I didn't have much orange left so I had to go with it. It took much longer to bind that it would have I think I had been able to fold the binding in half.
But all in all even though there numerous mistakes (another post soon to share all that) or things I would have changed I love it now that it is done!

If you are a quilter or a lover of quilts you must visit Carla and look at all the quilts on the linky. I have spent the week just going by and looking at all the amazing quilts! You'll love your visit I am sure. And I just found another Friday sewing link at Amy Lou Who check out her linky party. Click here.

And I am joining Sarah over at Cofessions of a Fabric Addict (because I am one too.) And because she called her link up Whoop! Whoop! Because I finally finished this quilt! Click here to visit her blog and see her amazing photography and quilts and link up!

Thanks for joining the Journey today!

Thoghts on Halloween . . . What are yours?

2011-10-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of people have very definite opinions about Halloween and actually of lot of things. But let's talk about Halloween.

Here's my thought. And, please forgive me if you have a different opinion than mine.

I think that the simpleness of little kids dressing up in simple costumes and getting to go to parties and fairs and carnivals is O.K.

I miss trick or treating. Although I never got much candy because there weren't many people in our neighborhood even back in the 60's that still opened their doors at our knock.

Fast forwarding. I know that Halloween has taken a huge turn from the simpleness of the 60's. I dislike all the scary stuff. I dislike haunted houses.

Anyway just a few thoughts. I had to share because I have someone in my house that loves the dressing up part and going to see her friends.

Here's a couple of photo's . . .

I did explain to her about the dangers . . .

We just decided to stay home and chew on a new rawhide bone!

Thankful Thursday Oct. 24

2011-10-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

Good morning. I am thankful that it is Thankful Thursday and I can share with you ~~all~~ some of the things (because there are too many for All) that I am thankful today.

Today I am Thankful that I am Happy!

Today I am Thankful that I am going to a Pumpkin Carving party my daughter is having for our grandson and his friends. I'll post photo's on Saturday.

Today I am Thankful that our daughter is already making plans for Thanksgiving.

Today I am Thankful that she is able to make Thanksgiving plans and include 'her' family.

Today I am Thankful that I am able to coach my drama team/choir at the boys unit where we are chaplains. I love my boys!

Today I am Thankful it is fall and the weather is cool. No more 3 digits! Praise God!

Today I am Thankful I can link to Lynn and share my Thankfulness with you. Lynn has a special post today. Click here to go to the linky post.

Thanks for stopping in. Tomorrow I have a different kind of post ready. So please come by and see what I have been up to when I am not posting.

Have a Happy Journey Today . . .

Happy Tuesday

2011-10-25T09:22:00.000-07:00

Hi thanks for stopping in. I know I said I would be posting more and I promise next week I'll be back but I have been busy finishing up a quilt for my grandson. I will be posting photo's on Friday. I found this great quilters linky party at Crazy Mama Quilts. She inspires!

I have been doing a lot of sewing so I haven't been doing much posting. Forgive me please.

I have been visiting old and new friends. Leaving a few comments. I figured out how to comment from my phone. And I can post from my phone. The only down side I can't link and I have to pre-write the post and save them as a draft. Which isn't all together bad. I'll be posting again regularly. I have some great ideas for devotionals and house keeping stuff and I have been challenged to begin the
Love Dare project with a twist so watch for those posts coming soon!

Until then I wanted to share a little something I am about to start working on.

I thought these were adorable I hope to have about 6 done by Friday my daughter is having a party for our grandson. I'll post photo's.

Have Great Day!

Thankful Thursday Oct. 20

2011-10-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Thankful Thursday. . .
Today I was thinking about what I am Thankful for I had this list I was going to share. And then, I visited a friend and well mine didn't seem so important anymore. Here's what
Denise says . . .
Everyone, count your blessings today, instead of your problems. I promise you, you will lose count. Praise God, from whom all our blessings flow. If you wake up in the morning, you have been blessed. If you can see, you are blessed. If you can walk, you are blessed. If you are able to use both arms, and both hands, you are blessed. If you can hear, you are blessed. If you can swallow, you are blessed. If you can speak, you are blessed. Come on people, realize how very blessed you are. More importantly, realize Who it is that blesses you continually. Give our Lord Jesus, the thanks that He so very much deserves. When I was in Siskin Rehab Hospital, I was on the second floor, known as the stroke floor. My heart truly went out to all the people on that floor. Some of them could not eat, because they could no longer swallow. Some had to be in a wheel chair, as I was, because they could no longer walk. Some were using walkers, or a cane. But, they never gave up, and never complained. Please, do not complain about what you do not have, instead, celebrate all that you have been blessed with.

Denise's faith and spirit is a Blessing to many. I am Thankful that God uses Denise to remind me of his faithfulness.

For more Thankful Thursday posts visit Lynn this months hostess. Click here

It'll Leave A Mark

2011-10-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

Yep when you get thrown under the bus it will leave a mark. This isn't the post I intended today.
But, because I need to ask for a ~~little~~ LOT of Prayer I decided to share a little of what happened yesterday.

Before I share the story first let me share part of a verse that I clung to. Because I couldn't remember the entire verse...
The angel of the Lord encamps around me!
Even though I was not able to remember the entire verse I am confident that my father brought those few words to mind.

I am grateful that not only did he bring that verse to mind he helped me to not go crazy and say wrong things. He helped me to hold my tongue and not respond to threats. Although I did post on facebook that a 'witch hunt' has begun.    God did indeed send a couple of angels to my rescue in the form of a couple of old time friends.

They responded because the second part of my facebook post mentioned that it hurts when someone you've trusted and thought was your friend not only doesn't stand up for you but joins with others that are 'out to get you'.

Yesterday some people that are associated with an organization that we belong to and collaborate with in ministry set out to do some major damage to our ministry.    We are a very small ministry and typically we have very few visits to our website. Yesterday there were over 68 visits within a 2 hour period.

Two things really hurt in all this . . .

The first thing that hurt was that a college that we thought was our friend had the power to diffuse the situation and chose not to.  And in fact joined in the attack without getting any details.

Secondly last week we managed to change our website over to blogspot and we were able to maintain our .org name. This was a major Praise for us. Last week I was so happy posting and uploading photo's. We have not been able to make changes for over 2 years to our website! So you can imagine the Joy I felt.

But, now I have had to take the site down because now it has to have approval from our State to allow me to 'say' certain things and to post photo's of kids. Which by the way I already have signed releases but those releases are being questioned now.

So, my day yesterday did in fact turn out to be rather Blue even though I didn't get to publish my Blue Monday post. It is posted now. (check the post below this one)

Even though I was sad and frustrated and a little angry I was confident that the main reason that all this happened was/is because we are right where God wants us to be. We are doing exactly what God wants us to do .

We may make mistakes. We may make wrong decisions but by daily asking God to Search me. O God. Know my anxious heart. See if there is any offensive way in me/us. And lead us/me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:12.

There are many days we will be attacked. As individuals and as servants but it is how we react to those attacks that is the challenge.    I pray that yesterday that God was pleased with the way that I responded.

I have learned that God shows me daily that he is there to 'watch my back'. Because some days it really feels like he is the only one.

If you ever feel that way I hope that you will turn to God. I hope you will realize that he is there and he will send his angels to encamp around you and fight off the evil one that is seeking to do destroy you.

Here are a few other verses that help me   . . .

The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

Praise be to the Lord, for he has heard my cry for mercy.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him,
and I am helped.
My heart leaps for Joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
Psalm 28:6-7

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
Psalm 3:73

Today my pray for you is that you trust in God. That you feel safe with him. And that you realize that if you ask he'll send an angel to encamp around you and protect you. That angel may be an 'old'
friend.

And if you have a chance would you pray for our ministry. Please pray that the approvals that we need to be able network and tell others about are work are received quickly. Please pray that God provides all that is needed.

Thank you Father God for sending angels along on The Journey

There are those days . . .

2011-10-13T14:37:00.000-07:00

Are there days that as a wife and mother you fill like this?

At the end of the day. Or the middle of the day. Or maybe the minute your feet hit the floor in the morning.

I think we have all been there some time or another. I hear some Amens!

Today I was thinking about failures. Mine. In this season of my life I can look back at those years when my kids were growing up. I had the perfect kids. The perfect house. The mostly perfect Cowboy (husband) Actually he was perfect back then but; I wished he was around more. But he was working hard so who am I to complain?

But I did. Mostly quietly to myself and God. Because I really enjoyed sending my children to private school. I really enjoyed a beautiful house. I enjoyed playing all day while everyone else was gone to work and school. I enjoyed eating out alot!

Yes I was proud of my kids. I was proud of our lifestyle.   I took all of it for granted I think. As I look back I realize that I did have a lot of pride.   And I look back and realize that there were many mistakes this mama made. I can't change them. I can ponder them and ask God to remind me of the major ones so I can receive his grace and maybe the grace and forgiveness of my children and my Cowboy.

And hopefully as I am reminded about my mistakes. I realize some of the things I should have done differently I pray that I can help someone else from looking back and having feelings of failure.

I am in a new season.  The season of being a grandmother. Maybe yours is the season of finally getting stay at home with your children but there is a little bit of regret. Maybe your season is filled with toddlers, or school age children. Maybe your blessed to be a home school mom.  Maybe your in the 'grandma' season with me.

One of my favorite scriptures reminds me that it is only a season. And too fast there will be another season.

There is a season for everything, a season for every activity under heaven
Ecclessiastes 3:1

As I look forward I realize that I need to have faith and trust in God. I need to ask Him for forgiveness for my mistakes and I need to ask Him for help. I need to meditate and ponder His word. Because in Him there is no failure.

If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your strength!
Psalms 24:10

I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength!
Philippians 4:13

This mama and grandmother and wife needs His strength. And, his grace and mercy. And His arms to comfort. And His hands to hold the tears.

And with His help it will be a Journey of Joy

Today and many days as I sit and write my post I have another window open and have my dear friend Denise's blog up so I can listen to her playlist. If you need encouragement go over to Denise's. She is fighting some major health issues right now. But she is one amazing 'Believer' . Even in through her struggles and lately as she has reported her status she Blesses the reader with her strength and faith.
And she has an amazing playlist that lifts you up as you listen! Click here to visit Denise.

Joyfully on the Journey,

Did you see my ? of the week at the top of my blog? How do you keep track of photo's you find so you can give credit?

Photo Credit: I found the beautiful photo at Mrs. Junes blog A Wise Woman Builds Her Home.

Click here to visit.

Blue Monday Laundry Day Oh Joy!

2011-10-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

First I have to say . . . I missed Monday . . .
But I loved this post I had planned so I wanted to share it!

And thank you for coming by last week. Sorry I couldn't take you along on our holiday. I hope you enjoyed the photos.
Well we are back from our little (pretend holiday) and after every vacation. What happens next the dreaded "L" word.
Yep it is laundry day and I am Blue.

Since I am blue I got out these cheerful Blue clothes pins.
Oh I forgot to mention I keep my 3 year old grandson on Mondays he really chases those Blues away.

But today well he got into some mud and you can only imagine what I had to do next . . .

Into the wash go some socks.

And then next . . .

All those jeans and things from the trip. (this is fantasy btw)

And now I have to give a little credit where it is due. Nope he isn't mine but isn't he adorable. His mama was the inspiration for this Blue Laundry day post. Behind him it is hard to see is the amazing custom built clothesline with removable swings for the kids. You have to go over and check out the post. It is truly amazing! I love this mama of 11 kids! Click here

Thanks for coming by and helping beat the Blues today.

Oh before you go stop over at Sally's she is our amazing Blue Monday hostess! Click here to pop over.

Thankful Thursday

2011-10-12T13:26:00.000-07:00

Welcome . . .
I opened the gate come on in and read my Thankful list . . .

Sometimes I am thankful for the silliest things. I just love this photo I found somewhere. Better Homes and Gardens probably. I love the door and the colors of the leaves. I am thankful that there are so many places to find eye candy.

I am thankful for where I live for now. (We will be moving next spring) I live in a little small town that reminds me of Gilmore Girls. At least main street does. Lots of cute little shops and a pretty gazebo.

I am thankful that God continues to Bless us. He is opening amazing doors for our ministry. I am thankful he has been patient with me while I wait on him.

I don't really now how beautiful me feet are but I am thankful he lets me share His good news.

For more beautiful feet and Thankful posts visit Lynn for Thankful Thursday. Click Here

I am thankful to you my friend for stopping by for a visit.

Enjoy your day,

Wordfilled Wednesday

2011-10-11T16:23:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Wordfilled Wednesday

I loved this photo of my grandson when I received it in the mail.
It is hard to see but he is flying a kite.

I love the look of concentration! I don't get to see them the often because they live out of state.
I am Blessed when I get mail!

For more Wordfilled Wednesday posts join Amy at Internet Cafe Devotions. Click Here

So what do you think?

2011-10-11T08:24:00.000-07:00

So I need your help! I need your opinion.
What do you think of . . .

I don't think we even got half way through before the 3 year finally didn't want to watch it anymore.
We were so tired of watching Toy Story 2 (which we own) that we got 3 at the library.
My 3 year old grandson surprised when in the beginning when the dog lays down I gigled and said "The dogs old!" He responded and said "That's not funny." I was thinking 'Oh my gosh was he dead?' I couldn't tell so I wondered 'Well does he die in the end?

His "That's not funny" comment was repeated over and over throughout the part of the movie we watched.

I was personally disturbed when the group first gets to the day care and the kids are in my opinion 'wild' and destroy the toys.

Did this disturb you? Or is it just me.

And maybe I am jumping the gun here because we didn't see it all the way through which we will do tonight or tomorrow.

But I wanted to get some opinions.

What did you think? Did it bother your 3 year old? Did it disturb you? Am I stupid?

So how about a discussion? Maybe not on the "Am I stupid?" guestion

My I Need A Vacation...Blue Monday

2011-10-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

I would really love a vacation and so today I am takin' one . . .
Come and join me!

So first things first . . .

I set my alarm. Then, I got dressed and;

Put on some great walkin' shoes. Everyone knows you gotta have great walkin' shoes.

And then the most amazing thing happened!

Cowboy wanted to go so. A second Honey Moon he called! How can a woman refuse!

Sorry to say my dear sweet friends. You are 'univited' at least for this trip. Please don't be mad.

Ohhhhh....It was such a fun trip.....

We found the cutests little trailer right on the beach. And after a little food and a little ______ we decided to do some exploring.

And so we set sail. . .

And sailed off into the sunset under a Blue sky

I really am sorry I had to 'univite' you but if you are really lonely and need something fun to do today. Go over and visit Sally for more fun Blue Monday! Click here

2011-10-09T14:51:00.000-07:00

May you have a blessed day in the Lord
Happy Sunday

Then Sings My Soul Saturday

2011-10-08T11:51:00.001-07:00

Welcome . . .
(Finally see earlier post) to Then Sings My Soul. Today I am posting a sweet old gospel tune.

Today my post is dedicated to Miss Audrey Kilgo. Miss Audrey went home be with the Lord this week. She was an amazingly sweet lady that volunteered at our Ministry Mission Makeover.

Miss Audrey just happened by one day on her way to church. She stopped in to see what Mission Makeover was about.

She become one of our most dedicated volunteers.

I chose this song because I knew that she would love it. I chose this more contemporary version for all the girls that she touched while volunteering.

Thank you Father for allowing Miss Audrey to touch our lives.

Please visit Amy for more Then Sings My Soul posts. Click here

2011-10-08T11:06:00.001-07:00

Does anyone know why this is happening? I was trying to post a video for Then Sings My Soul and it wouldn't work so I tried this one same thing happens. Weird.

http://www.youtube.com/embed/c0jdrJmTsNQ</a>" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen>

Prayer Please

2011-10-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Today I am asking for prayer.
I have had the most frustrating morning.
And now trying to embed my video for Then Sings My Soul I can't get it to work.
I have a new computer and either it is smarter than me (which is possible...my phone is) or it has a problem.
Which I pray it is me!

I had an amazing video tribute planned to one of our dear sweet volunteers. She went to be with the Lord this week. It was sad to hear. But I am happy that she is with Jesus.

Personally our ministry still continues to struggle. This morning we had to go and get a post office box because the office that has been loaned to us for 4 years isn't available any more. Freeway expansion caused Automotive Service Association our sponsor to move. They will not have space for us in the new location.

The post office box cost $90.00 for 6 months! We were not prepared at all for that expense. Wow that might as well be $200.00 for a year!

It makes me sad and angry to have to spend so much money this way. That amount of money could go so far feeding families! And gas to get us to McFadden (we are volunteer chaplains).

Oh I need strength. I need encouragement. I need less frustration.

Oh Lord I need you to give me strength.

Do you have enough to eat?

2011-10-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

Do you have enough to eat...is a question I think about alot. I operate a food pantry. A couple of weeks ago we went to a conference for pantrys. There were lots of different classes and trainings.

One was really interesting to me so I wanted to share it. The topic was Community Gardens.

A community garden is a plot of land around which neighborhoods can come together on individual or family plots to grow food and build community. Community gardens can be a first step in providing food security for families, neighborhoods and communities.

Community Gardens:

Build neighborliness and sense of ownership in the garden and the community
Make productive use of urban vacant land, providing cooling, neighborhood composting and recycling of organic wastes to create soil, water filtration and absorption
Grow flowers and ornamental vegetables that beautify the neighborhood
Provide low-cost organic vegetables and herbs
Create a sense of pride and accomplishment and the empowerment of food self-sufficiency
Make a place for outdoor activities, exercise, recreation and therapy to alleviate stress
Have long been used as an additional form of healing for people who are ill and as activities for the mentally handicapped
Teach children about the environment and plants and about working with others
Give older people a way to be productive, interact with, and mentor /care for children
Provide the opportunities for everyone in a neighborhood to be able to interact and work together and learn about each other
Save money for people growing their own food
Help homeless people, and others in difficult situations, to regain their pride and sense of belonging to a community, learn skills and be productive for their own sake and the sake of the community.
Community Gardens are about community-building, neighborliness, the environment, local self-sufficiency, healthy organic food, economic empowerment, and improving the urban landscape of a community.

Community gardens can be started by groups at a church or just people in a neighborhood. A community carden project would be a great activity for a Home School group.

October is a perfect time to start thinking about and planning a community garden for the spring. There are alot of sites just google Community gardens you'll get lots of info. and help.

              This is the day that the Lord has made!
                I will rejoice and be glad in it!
                           Psalm 118:24

Joyfully . . .

This Is The Day

2011-10-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome . . .

               This is the day that the Lord has made!
                 I will rejoice and be glad in it!
                            Psalm 118:24

I am grateful for this verse. I am Thankful for this verse. Because it reminds me where my priorities need to be. I need to rejoice and be glad. Even if I don't feel like it. Because God has given me a beautifull day.

Yes, we are having a beautiful day here in Texas. The weather is so nice I am able to leave the door and windows open! Yea Fall. My favorite time of the year. It makes me happy seeing all the beautiful colors.
And decorations all the pumpkins, and leaves and corn stalks. One of my favorite things to do is visit all the great blogs and look at the beautiful photo's ya'll post!

Last fall I did just that and I made a collage of some of my favorite photo's.

Each of these photo's made me smile.

Probably my favorite one is the Cowboy.

I like to pretrend it is my very own Cowboy. (hehe)

In case your a new visitor I do have my own Cowboy.

We are transplanted ranchers living in the city.

Today I am thankful for fall. Today I am thankful for God's mercy.

Today I am thankful he understands when I forget to be thankful and joyful.

More thankful posts over at Thankful Thursday. Click here.

Today I am Joyful. I hope your having a Joyfull day!

May your day be filled with Joy and Thankfulness.

Sharing my Journey with you . . .

Inside-Out

2011-10-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

A thousand times I fail . . . Still your mercy remains. . .

Should I stumble again . . . Still I'm calling on your grace . . .

Will above all else my purpose remain? The art of loosing myself in bringing you Praise.

I stumble. I fall. I loose myself in me. I cry out. I wish for my purpose to bring you Praise. But I stumble I fall.

And when I do I sing these words . . .

My heart and my soul I give you control consume me from the inside out.
Let justice and Praise become my embrace to love you from the inside out
Everlasting your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending your glory goes beyond all things

And the cry of my heart is to bring you Praise from the inside out oh my soul crys out.

Beautiful words. Beautiful video . . .

I have been singing this song alot.

I hope you enjoy.

Hello Hello Hello

2011-09-30T10:02:00.000-07:00

I just can't help but say Hello again!
Because I am so happy to be here. If you have been following I hope you've missed me as much as I have missed being here. Oh does that bad? Well I really do hope you'll start coming back around.
Have you wondered where I've been? Actually I have been right here. But; I haven't had the inter-net since June. But I have worked out the kinks and now I am back and doing a little . . .

I'll be posting much more often so I hope that you'll come by.
And I've had a few ideas and learned a few things from other bloggers lately. So I hope you'll come by and check out the changes.

Since I am a person that thrives on organization. I didn't think that I am a list person but in a way I guess I am because I realize I keep myself organized through scheduling so I guess that is a little like being a list person.

So I'll still be posting about certain topics on certain days.

But instead of one post a day I'll still be writing a devotional or having a guest hostess share a devotional.

I have just realized that as much as I enjoy having two blogs (actually 3 because of publish the ministry blog) I just can't keep them both us. So I am going to combine my 'fun' blog (My Home Sanctuary) and My Journey Back.

I think it will be amazingly fun! I know you'll enjoy.

So come on by and say Hello

Back on The Journey . . .

47 Questions About Me

2011-09-29T15:54:00.000-07:00

First I found this over at Carrie's blog. And second. I did not copy her answers.  I really think we must be sisters or cousins or somethin'!

Enjoy . . . just for fun since I cut and pasted this I left Carrie's answers. Mine are in Bold.

47 questions about me and me (hehe)

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yes~ Carrie Nation, the temperance leader. My father named me~Carrie Nation. No

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Today~ question # 1 made me cry. Today

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes Sort of

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Roast Beef Ditto

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? yes Ditto

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? I sure do hope so
And again Ditto

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? yes Not usually...well actually I guess I do that's another Ditto.

8.. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS ? I only have one~not sure what happened to the other one!
Nope

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No I would say never but I learned never to say never. Ditto and Double Ditto

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Life or Golden Grahams Hmm toss up Frosted Flakes or Sugar Bear

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? no here we go again. Ditto

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Yes Have to be...that's another Ditto

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Butter~Pecan Chocolate

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Their hands Not sure

15. RED OR PINK? pink Red

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I don't know. Ditto

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My Ashley and Jessica~ Ditto well sort of I miss my Thomas and Jennifer

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? Why sure! Why sure! O.K. well I did copy that one!

19. WHAT COLOR SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? lime green Black but I wish they were lime green!

20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? chocolate Roast beef (see #4) I didn't have any chocolate in the house.

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Judging Amy Well tryin' not to. I am at the library in a study room and the person next door is talking really loud!

22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? yellow Yellow I wish but I would probably be purple or blue

23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Fresh linen, lilacs in the Spring, Apple Jack and Peel in the Fall, All Christmas smells~I make candles and love them all! Ditto

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? my sister~ my best friend
A collegue

25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Yes Yes (but she didn't send it I found it on my visit!

26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? None~sorry Ditto

27. Hair Color? brown Now or then? I'll go then. Ditto (my sis Carrie is a few years younger than me)

28. EYE COLOR? Brown daaadaaa Ditto!

29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? No When I can afford!

30. FAVORITE FOOD? Mexican Double Ditto

31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy always happy~ Double Ditto

32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? A Hallmark Movie Oh gosh I know this. It was just out in the theater. My daughter took me. Hated the movie though. Not a happy ending. I really, really sad ending.Opp's sorry. I think it was called
One Day.   BTW don't bother.

33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Black White

34. SUMMER OR WINTER? Both~I love all the seasons. I love a reason to celebrate! I swear I didn't copy this one! Ditto

35. HUGS OR KISSES? Now how can a girl choose that one~Both of course Ditto

36. FAVORITE DESSERT? Raspberry Pie~ If I had no chocolate I am sure I would say . . Raspberry Pie

37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? don't know I have to say Ditto cuz I don't get this one.

38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? don't know Double ditto

39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? None~None give me an hour and that will change I am at the library!

40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Nothing Nothing

41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Nothing~ Ringer

42. FAVORITE SOUND? The sounds of the country~Sorry have to copy great answer Sis

43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? neither Ditto

44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME??? Mexico Ditto

45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? not sure? Don't think so

46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Missouri Texas

47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Everyone Anyone

So any other sista's out there?  So take the test and then send me the link!

Enjoying The Journey

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Thankful Thursday . . .
I feel so Blessed to be able to write this post today and share with you a few things
that I am Thankful for today.

It may sound really silly but I am thankful for paper piecing. I have been able to do a lot of sewing lately. I love this pattern and I would not have been able to make this quilt without the
wonderful method of paperpiecing. I am thankful that God gave whoever figured this out the brains and the ability to share and teach this amazing method. Thank you. Thank you.

Next on the not so silly side. Well sort of. I am thankful for technology. Anyone else wanna say
Amen! I mean really were it not for some amazing technology a lot of us ladies wouldn't be able to get great photo's like these of our adorable grandchildren. The photo isn't perfect because it was taken on my daughters phone. But it captured a moment I didn't get to share. This is my adorable grandson. He wasn't quite 3 but boy can he stir a bowl of party mix.

And on the very serious side. I am really Thankful for my salvation. I am thankful that my Father chose to give me a way to reach Him. I am thankful too that he is sooooooooooo patient with me. (I think I heard a little amen)

The last few months have been a huge challenge for me. Actually the last two years have been
a huge challenge. But when I step back and can see that God is with me. Sometimes I don't realize that. And sometimes I am embarrassed to say I wonder where he is. And sometimes
I wonder about things I shouldn't. I am Thankful that he understands.

I read something either on a blog or on facebook yesterday about thankfulness. It was something about if you could only have tomorrow the things that you were thankful today . . . What would you be Thankful for today?

I am making a list. Are you?

I am linking up with Iris for Thankful Thursday. BTW one more thing. I am Thankful for Iris.
On My Journey with a Thankful Heart . . .

Wordfilled Wednesday 2 Timothy 3:16

2011-08-24T15:47:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Wordfilled Wednesday and thanks for coming by.
I found this photo awhile back when I was working on my book review blog. The other day I was thinking it would be great to illustrate this verse because I thought . . . how cool it would be to find a statue like this over a girl reading her Bible.
I hope your day is Blessed and enjoy WFW click here to see more posts.

The Lone Star Skate--Book Review

2011-08-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

I don't usually review this kind of book. And, I don't post reviews like this here but this one was interesting. And, I am really, really waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay behind on posting reviews so I thought I would post it here and give the authors a little more traffic.
And, well I figured some of you might be interested in Hockey so,
Here it is . . .

Yep a book about Hockey. Forgive me but I am not really a fan of Hockey but when I was asked to review this one I thought well since I live in Texas I thought I would give it a whirl. It was a very interesting book.

The Lonestar Skate is filled with behind the scenes photo's and interviews with guys like Mike Madano, Norm Green, Jim Lites and others.

The 175 pages of photo's and interviews are filled with stories and interesting facts about the players and the sport. The hardbound book has a glossy papercover and would make an excellant coffee table book for the hockey enthusiast. In fact I am giving my copy to a friend that has begun to play. I know he'll love it. If you have a hockey fan in the 'fam check it out.

Here's a quote on the back cover from Bob Gainey NHL Hall of Famer: I will forever be emotionally tied to Dallas and the fans of the great state of Texas. That's why I am pleased to be a part of a publication that chronicles some of the greatest personalities in the history of hockey in the Lone Star State. I am honored to be part of a project that pays tribute to how a great sport became part of the
landscape in a great sports state like Texas.

It is available at Amazon. Click here for the link.
Here's a little about the authors:

Glenn Hart owns the CHL's Laredo Bucks and was the 2006 recipient of the league's Rick Kozuback Award. In 1995, Hart purchased an IHL franchise for Houston, winning the championship in the franchise's fourth season. In 1999, Hart's hockey passion took him to Laredo, where he worked with city leaders to develop the Laredo Entertainment Center, home of the Bucks. Hart is the president and cofounder of Laredo Engery, and is a graduate of Texas A&M University.

Rusty Burson, a graduate of Sam Houston State, began his career as a newspaper reporter in Galveston. He later became and editor for numerous publications in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Burson is currently the associate editor of 12th Man Magazine and vice president of the 12th Man Foundation. Burson has written and published seven books.

For more info. check out the website. Click here and read the forward.

FTC disclosure: I was offered this book for review by Amy Currie and Phenix & Phenix literary publicists. I did not receive payment of any kind and I was not asked to write a postitive review.

Too Blessed to be Stressed . . .

2011-08-18T16:28:00.000-07:00

Yep I could write a post with this title but someone beat me to it! Well actually it is a book but somehow I think at least I hope that you all feel Too Blessed to be Stressed. But just in case there are some days and I know we all have them that you are stressed here's a fun little book to get you through it . . .

Loved the cover. If I was shopping and saw this I would pick it up and check it out. Doesn't the cheerful cover just say fun! As the title challenges . . . who doesn't need help with dealing with stress?

And back to that cover . . . it is just cute, cheerful and fun and I would have thought what a great gift book for a girlfriend. The 'cuteness' (no grammar checks please) of the cover continues on the inside with blue polka dots and doodles. And, the titles, scripture and quotes are in blue lettering. This is a short book of 217 pages but it is filled with inspiration and humor that is right on. Sounds like a lot but there are 40 chapters that almost read like little short stories. Each chapter begins with a scripture are about 5 pages long including a page of questions for reflection. The book is divided into 4 sectiions: Time Management, Develop a Sense of Humor, Cultivate Relationships and Focus on Faith.

From back cover:

Do your to do lists have footnotes? Are you imprisoned by the joy-sucking dully-funks?

Maybe it’s time for a healthy dose of truth gift-wrapped in humor. With her own offbeat brand of wit and near-wisdom, inspirational humorist Debora Coty addresses the heart-needs of desperate women drowning in the churning everyday stress-pool of busyness….
Coty addresses heart needs of women drowning in the churning stress-pool of busyness. Heart-transforming, real-life stories and biblically based insights will encourage and delight readers, who will find just the simple, practical steps they need to arrive at healing, refreshment, revitalization of spirit, body and faith.

To celebrate the release the author is hosting the Too Blessed to Be Stressed Giveaway!

Debora has created a “Too Blessed” prize package worth over $150! One grand prize winner will receive:

* A brand new Latest Generation KINDLE with Wi-Fi and Pearl Screen

* Too Blessed to Be Stressed by Debora Coty (for KINDLE)

Hurry! The giveaway ends August 25th. Winner will be announced on the evening of the 25th during Debora’s De-Stress Facebook Party! Debora will be hosting a “life-perserver” chat (it’s okay if you haven’t read the book – who knows, you might WIN a copy!), testing trivia skills, swapping funny stories, handing out some decom-stress tips, and giving away tons of great stuff! (Chocolate, books, and more!) Hope to see you there – bring your friends!

Go by the authors site to enter the giveaway. Click here.

Too Blessed to be Stressed is available at Amazon. Click here

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Stuck in . . .

2011-08-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

. . . Yes. I am stuck. And, I am trying to get out.  Because . . .
We are in a heatwave! Here in Texas they say it has been triple digits over 35 days. I'm too hot to remember exactly how many days it is but it has been a looooooooooooong time!

To catch you up. I/w (me and Cowboy and Daisy and the cat Rascal) moved to a bungalow on a lake. (well it is a block down the road)
We opted on no cable or inter net. We spent the first month with no t.v. at all. We did get one of those do hikey boxes or antennae something so we can get local channels.
But, no inter net. The local library is only a few blocks away. So that is where I am now. And, I have been visiting most of my blogging friends and signing up to get email alerts. Which I can get on my phone. But it is too hard to type on it so.  And I haven't figured out how to comment on your posts.

I haven't been posting much here.  As my grandson would say 'Because why' ? If the library is only minutes away.

No a/c in the car! And I am weenie and it is just too hot. So I am staying in and sewing and reading.

Which by the way brings me to the book I want to tell you about! Here's the cover photo compliments of Amazon.

I can't tell you much because I am supposed to write a review. But I am lovin' it. But, I had to tell you. There is a blog tour goin' on though so check it out starting Monday.
Here's the link to the authors blog. Click here.

Keep posting I'll be reading on my phone!

Wishin' you . . .

2011-07-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

. . . a greaaaaaaaaaaat week. (reminds me of Tony the tiger!)
Not really sure when I will get to a place that has the net (probably Thursday)
But I wanted to leave you something in case you dropped in.
Here's a couple of photo's that make me smile.

I want these shoes! I know I would look adorable. Wouldn't I!

I don't know why but I love this photo. I have been saving it for a Wordfilled Wednesday post. Don't know why I love it. But I think Gidget and Moon Doggie. Silly I know. But maybe it is because I live in an adorable little bungalow on the lake.
Well even though my Moon Doggie aka Cowboy is going to be working loooooong hours this week (which is why I won't have the computer) we're going to enjoy 'life' in the bungalow.

Have a greaaaaaaaaaaat week! See you soon . . .

Thankful Thursday

2011-07-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.

Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come before His presence with singing!

Know ye that the Lord He is God:
It is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into
His courts with praise!

Be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.

For the Lord is good;
His mercy is everlasting;
And His truth endureth to all generations."

Thankful for stillness. Thankful for quiet. Thankful for Mercy.

Thank you Father God for providing a way. Thank you for your son Jesus.

Singing a Joyful and Thankful song. And joining Lynn for Thankful Thursday.

A silly post?

2011-07-18T08:03:00.000-07:00

Good morning. Today here in Texas it is hot, hot, hot. The other day a friend (Becky click here )wrote a post and said what do you have if you drop the 't' from hot? I didn't get ,but I bet you did! Yes you have ho, ho, ho. So if it is really hot, hot, hot where you are think ho, ho, ho, maybe it will cool you done. Sorry that was really silly wasn't it!

Well I am thinking silly this morning because I am watching . . .

Yep I am watchin' Blues Clues with my 3 year old grandson. And, I am thankful that I am. And, I am thankful for all the really sweet emails and comments I got the other day after I wrote this post.

And since we're watching Blues Clues I thought I would share a couple more Blue photo's with you I found.
I thought this was amazing.

This was a DIY project I found over here. Amazing. I so want to do this.

And I found this at my friend Beth's she is an amazing DIYer and she has done an amazing job decorating. I so want to copy her ideas since I live no where close and can't 'hang out'. I would so love to go shoppin' with this girl!

So your thinkin' this isn't my normal post here. But since it is a silly day I thought I would share what I normally post over at what I call my 'fun' blog. But it hasn't been too fun lately. Gosh I don't remember when I got to post there? actually it was over 23 days ago because I just found out that my friend Sally has been in the hospital for that long. She is the sweet hostess of Blue Monday. She has been going through an awful time. I know she would love a visit. Her sweet granddaughters have been keeping up with her blog.
About my fun blog . . . all of my friends over there have deserted me. I mean really who wouldn't after so long! So, I thought I would post here today and invite you to come and see me. I have some amazing I think Blue posts and a few other things. Go over and see me there sometime. I love visitors.

Today I shared this verse on facebook . . . Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding but it in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.

I'll be writing more about this verse and why I posted it so come back a little later and check it out!

Thankful Thursday

2011-07-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

Thankful Thursday . . . it's interesting that I was planning on writing this post and then Lynn suggested that we write about Turning Points which is exactly what this post is about. Although I didn't really know how to title it till I read Lynn's suggestion. I planned to write today because I am so thankful for this particular turning point. I have to ask you dear friends to say a pray for me. To also bear with me because this is a really, really hard post to write. But it is an important post. And the first in a series.
What I have to share with you is hard to talk about. It is hard to admit. It is hard put into words the pain, anquish and emotional feelings that I need to express to you all. But if this story can help even one person then it is necessary. Here's my Thankful post . . .
Today I am Thankful that after 5 years of emotional abuse on Labor Day weekend my daughter left her husband. The last few weeks have been a rollar coaster for all of us. Before I go much further in this part of the story I wanted to share a photo . . .

This is Cowboy and our 3 year old grandson putting new tags on our daughters new "to her car".
Because of the seperation she had to get a different 'unrecognizeable' car.

I am Thankful that God provided this car. I am Thankful that God kept her safe for the last 5 years. I am Thankful that even though it wasn't my timing that God provided her the strength she needed and the rescources she needed to leave. I am Thankful that miraculously the friends she is staying with happened to have a bedroom available (just two weeks before another young woman was able to move out after 2 years) I am Thankful for an over 18 year friendship with our friends that have provided shelter for our daughter and grandson. I am Thankful my relationship with my daughter is beginning to get back to where it was 6 years ago. (emotionally abuse women are brainwashed)
And, I am Thankful that my daughter wrote these words on her facebook "God is faithful . . . if you don't believe that just ask me I'll tell you how I know."

Today I am praying for you. I am praying that if you have a loved one or a friend or an acquitance. Or, if you know someone that is in an abusive relationship that you will pray for that person. And, pray for yourself. Pray that God will give you the strength to trust him. He is faithful. Pray that God will give you patience and strength. And most of all that God will give you the right words to speak at the right time. God is faithful. And, God is the only way the only 'real' resource.
And, please , please understand and realize that hitting is not the only form of abuse. Emotional abuse is just as deadly as physical abuse.

And, I am Thankful that you came by today. Because I know that God sent you here for a reason. If you need someone to talk to. After you've prayed about it please feel free to email me. I will pray with you. I will talk to you. I will listen. Because sometimes the only thing you can do is just tell someone about your hurts will you are doing this . . .

This post is the first in a series. I pray that by sharing 'our' story someone else can be saved.

Wordfilled Wednesday

2011-07-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Wordfilled Wednesday . . . I have been looking at this photo for awhile today it spoke this verse. Amazingly at least for me this is one of those verses I had to go and 'look up' to get the reference right. I really seem to have a hard time remembering!
When I looked it up I stumbled onto this video. Which btw we will use Sunday for our chapel service. I thought you might enjoy it too.
Hope your day is Blessed and you get a chance to Be Still

Then My Soul Sings

2011-07-09T13:17:00.000-07:00

“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

This one caused me to ponder . . . prayful that I don't ignore or miss an opportunity. (for more great songs visit Amy.)

Here's the complete passage . . . “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
44 “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ 45 “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ 46 “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”