Highlights From Higher Ground

Faithfulness

2010-03-30T18:57:00.002-06:00

The reason God does not call some of us to do greater works for Him,
is because we are not faithful in the smaller things.

Uncivilized Comments

2010-02-11T22:38:00.003-06:00

Just so you understand, I am more than willing to discuss/debate a topic, but rude, hateful comments will not be published. If you can respond in a polite and civilized manner, even if you disagree with my opinion, your comment will be posted. It's just the rules of civility.

"I belong to you. You can do whatever you like."

2010-02-11T20:00:00.005-06:00

I read this today shortly after I found out that our family will begin a season of life that will be very difficult. I am constantly reminding my children, it is not WHAT happens to us, but HOW we respond that is important.

We are at Jesus' disposal. If he wants you to be sick in bed, if he wants you to proclaim His work in the street, if he wants you to clean the toilets all day, that's all right, everything is all right. We must say, "I belong to you. You can do whatever you like." And this is our strength. This is the joy of the Lord. ~ Mother Teresa

May God be glorified!

Then, then my daughters

2010-02-05T07:15:00.002-06:00

Here is a little twist of Kipling's poem If, that Olivia wrote:

If you can never marry,
see all your dreams rearranged,
and still remain pure,

If you can plan and plot
and it all be overturned at a moments notice,
and still submit joyfully

If you can slave over a dinner all day
only to have a child snub it
then rise again the next day and start all over again,

If you can sweep, mop, dust and scrub,
and watch as a your family walks through with boots and dirty hands
and welcome them home,

If you can teach the same math lesson one hundred times,
only for the child to still not get it,
and return tomorrow and try again,

If you can pour your life into a child,
and they turn on you when they turn 15,
and bear no bitterness,

If you can absorb the troubles around you,
take in the worn and weary,
and never be praised,

If you can remain calm,
while everyone around you gives in to the chaos,

If you can hold the child who got hurt,
doing something you told him not to,

If you can walk through the trials of life
and cling all the closer to God,

Then, then my daughters, you will be women.

Government Education IS Socialism

2010-02-02T22:29:00.002-06:00

Why aren't the people that are all bent out of shape about the government take over of the health care system (which I am one of them!!!), upset about about government education?

Why is one socialism and the other not?

They are both socialism!

When it comes to government education we have had a few generations of accepting this as a constitutional right, when it is not.

Why in the world should I pay for others to send their kids to institutions, to teach things that are not true? Why should people who never have children be paying for the education of other people's children? What about personal responsibility?

If for some reason a parent could not teach their child, community schools could be formed, ran by the parents. Churches and charities could offer educational options.

Government education IS socialism, and most people want it! They do not want the tough choices and hard work of being responsible for their child's education.

The average cost in 2006 was $9,391 PER YEAR to educate a ONE child. This is insane! Absolutely insane! Do you have any idea what a small community school could do with a fraction of that? Do you know what a home schooler could do with that???

We already have socialism in the form of government schools, as they take our taxes by force to shape and mold the children into whatever they want. A one -size-fits-all education that says we came from apes. Good grief!

They take our children from our homes for the majority of the day, for the majority of their childhood...and we (as a nation) celebrate it! Take the children from the home, give them to the Nanny State to teach, free women up to pour their lives into careers, and everyone can come home at the end of the day too exhausted to do much of anything other than vegging out in front of the TV...little interaction...little family time, thus a tearing down of the home.

And as the political season is upon us, what will be one of the most common issues? EDUCATION! It is a broken system and sucks our hard earned money in the name of the children. They will never have enough money (taxes) as long as we sit by and insist the government schools are a constitutional right. How about we read the Constitution for starters?

Like Fish Swimming in Superficiality, Subjectivity, and Sex

2010-02-01T20:00:00.000-06:00

I love John Piper~

Purity Matters

2010-02-01T18:50:00.003-06:00

A cheap date is someone who gives themselves away.

We wonder why so many marriages fail, why so many marriages have so much baggage with them.

STDs, pregnancies out side of marriage and abortion rates are sky high.

Most people have no clue of the importance of purity before marriage and the sanctity of sex within the boundaries of marriage.

The music, movies and books of our culture have trashed what God ordained only for a husband and wife. Most sitcoms are about sex and people sit and laugh at the sin. Songs sing of perversion as even Christians sing along.

The Laughing Bride

2010-01-25T20:33:00.002-06:00

I know this has been all over the net, but I just LOVE IT! I can see Emma doing something like this.

Now listen to their story. It is so beautiful, so SPECIAL! If only people would understand there is a reason why God said to wait, a reason why the consummation of the marriage is for the wedding night.

Look at the joy on their faces. Look at the way they look at each other. I LOVE IT!

A Stubborn and Rebellious Woman

2010-01-25T13:04:00.004-06:00

For I do not do what I want – instead, I do what I hate.

Romans 7

I woke up this morning with such a heaviness. Why in the world do I keep doing the things I know I should not do, and don't do what I should??? Why am I such a slow learner? Maybe I am not slow at all, perhaps I am just stubborn and rebellions!

As I dreaded getting out of bed this morning because I was wracked with guilt due to my bad behavior, I asked God to help me. As I am muddling through the day, striving to take my thoughts captive, because to be completely honest I'm still a bit mad, I am reminded of my own sin.

I am also reminded how the lessons I am working so hard to instill my children are the same lessons God is trying to get through my thick skull.

I tell my kids:

It doesn't matter what everyone else is doing, this is what you are going to do.

It doesn't matter if you understand the situation, you need to cheerfully obey me anyway. Someday you WILL understand.

Delayed obedience is disobedience.

The ends does NOT justify the means.

Trust ME! I know what I am talking about!

Don't pout because you are not getting your way!

Love other people -even when they are unlovable.

It's NOT ALL ABOUT YOU! Quit feeling sorry for yourself and get busy doing what God has for you to do today!

ALL of these statements are the same things God keeps engraving on my heart. I don't want them written with a soft lead that can easily be erased. I want them engraved deeply so that I can live in peace. Engraving is a deep and painful process, that can not be easily erased or written over.

HomemakING

2010-01-21T21:43:00.005-06:00

I LOVE making HOME! Making life more pleasant for the people I love most!!!

Is every task, every day a fun? No, but I do it because it is my duty.

Does everyone always appreciate what I do? No, but I can appreciate my work, knowing I have done my best.

Am I often taken for granted? Yep! But it is the Lord I seek to please.

Do I have days that feel like I just can't keep any kind of order? Sure thing!

But here is a thought: This duty is called homemakING, not home 'made'. Making is a present tense word. We rarely get things just the way we want them. Homemaking is a constant task. A task that takes a lot of attention and dying to self. If your heart is not into making home, then you will end up being a bitter old woman.

A true homemaker realizes that homemaking is about making life more pleasant for the people that enters her doors. If it were just about keeping a house clean and orderly it would be called housekeeping. But a homemaker is about making a home; a place where people long to come to, a place where people are nourished and revived.

It is all PERSPECTIVE! And the more people we have and the more activity we have in our house, the greater the need is for homeMAKING! :o) So don't grow weary in doing ***good***! Don't look for people to thank you or praise your great efforts. Willingly create a home filled with comfortable surroundings, satisfying foods, sweet aromas, and pleasant memories. Engrave these memories deep into the soul of your family, and as they grow up and out, only to return for visits; they will recall HOME, and remember the labor of love you poured into their lives.

The Perfect Pie Crust

2010-01-21T13:28:00.001-06:00

Do It Anyway!

2010-01-16T21:06:00.001-06:00

People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered.
Love them anyway.

If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.

If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.

The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.

Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.

The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds.
Think big anyway.

People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs.
Fight for a few underdogs anyway.

What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.

People really need help but may attack you if you do help them.
Help people anyway.

Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you have anyway.

~ Kent M. Keith

Dumb Bumper Stickers

2010-01-06T08:11:00.001-06:00

How to Add Sacred Hymns to Your Day - For Free!

2010-01-06T05:43:00.007-06:00

I have to admit, I love technology! I'm not near as savvy as I wish I was, but I just love all the gadgets and ways to communicate and learn.

We all know how easy it is to learn songs just by listening to the radio or CDs, so I realized that we can learn the sacred hymns by using Playlist (or your favorite version of this program).

The words of sacred hymns are SO DEEP and really make you think! I would love to get to where I know all the words to our most used hymns without using a hymnal.

On my playlist I am adding hymns we sing in church. I am searching for ones that have the words sung clearly, not necessarily a lot of background music. The hymn play list could also be used during your family worship time, this is especially good if you don't have anyway to play an instrument or if you are just learning the hymns.

To use Playlist you do not have to have a blog/website. You can simply make the list and and go to their site to listen. OR, you could do this same thing with Itunes by creating a play list of songs you bought. The good thing about Playlist is that it is free, and you can jump to the song you want. :o)

On my sidebar, under the songs about HOME, I've started my list of sacred hymns to learn. To create your own playlist just click on the button in my Playlist box in the sidebar. You can also go to Hymn Lyrics to print out the words.

Olivia and the Reporter

2010-01-05T19:37:00.006-06:00

As Olivia and the girls were walking to the Art museum today in one of the coldest snaps for the south, a reporter stopped her to interview her.

Reporter: What do you think of all this cold weather?

Olivia (with a hint of sarcasm): Well, frankly, I am quite disappointed! Al Gore said we were supposed to be having Global Warming!

Reporter: No, I mean how do you think people in the south handle the cold?

Olivia (in her usual joyful tone): Well, all they need is a cup of hot tea and they'll be OK!

The reporter then decides it is too cold to mess with this girl! ;o) LOL Wonder why her comments didn't make the news broadcast?

The 12 year old with Olivia asked her about the nude statue of a fat woman, "Is that Buddha?"

Olivia responds, "No that's NUddha!"

Confession:

2010-01-03T18:09:00.007-06:00

Today's sermon was encouraging and convicting! ^{Eph. 5:22}Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. ²³For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. ²⁴Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

²⁵Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her ²⁶to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, ²⁷and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. ²⁸In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. ²⁹After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church— ³⁰for we are members of his body. ³¹"For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." ³²This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. ³³However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Confession of my sin:

Sometimes I become sullen, angry, bitter when things don't go as I think they should. I don't always show it outwardly, but I sure am drowning in it on the inside. This is pride and God hates it. I am especially guilty of this with my husband. I do try to submit outwardly, but on the inside I am murmuring the whole time. ugh! Sin, yes, I know!

The thing about sin is that you cannot keep it to yourself. Because it is in your heart, it will eventually escape through your mouth. :o( How do I know this? Experience!

In my recent bout of living with a husband who is human and my heart that is prideful I knew I had to get a grip, take my thoughts captive! Rather than dwell on his weaknesses (as if I have none of my own) I needed to beg God to help me see what it is that He wanted me to learn. I really wanted to stomp my feet and whine... "But God...", but I know that gets us no where.

The women sets the tone of the house, she chooses the aroma of the day. If Satan can keep the wife angry, uptight or distracted from her duties, then the whole family will become angry, uptight and anxious to get out as soon as they can!

One thing I am constantly telling my kids, "It doesn't matter what your circumstances are, YOU are to do the right thing. YOU are to choose to walk in the path of righteousness! YOUR attitude is everything!" So of course, God wants me to walk this truth, not just talk it.

It does not matter what my husband is doing or not doing (apart from sin). What God wants from ME it to respect him, honor him, regardless. Respect and honor are attitudes. So, first I repent to the Lord and find the many, many things to be thankful for concerning my husband.

See, the REAL problem was the focus on ME! That is where the pride takes root and grows.

My husband is wonderful, imperfect, but wonderful! He rarely reads this blog so I'm not just saying that, he really is wonderful.

The sermon this morning was about our responsibilities in the family, husbands, wives and children. God's timing is so perfect!

After the worship service, the man sitting behind us told Jeff, "Jeff, it was nice it sit behind you this morning rather than sit in front of you. I couldn't help but to notice how tender you are with your wife." Oh, how this melted my heart and convicted me. Yes, he is so VERY tender. His arm is always around me while we stand and sing, always with a gentle touch. Because I receive this week after week, I guess I take it for granted.

When I awoke this morning he had my cup of coffee already poured as I drug myself to the kitchen. He has a true servant heart. Many women would love to have a man that is faithful to come home every night, or a husband who would take them to church.

And I dare complain...at all.

Jan 2

2010-01-02T20:57:00.004-06:00

Did some bulk cooking for the week ahead.

Recorded soap making with Olivia for the next video.

Watched videos with the girls...while I worked/played on the laptop.

New Years Day 2009

2010-01-01T15:52:00.001-06:00

The secret to LOVING Christmas...

2009-12-23T07:27:00.000-06:00

The secret to LOVING Christmas is to put aside ALL expectations, demands and offenses; getting the focus off yourself and embrace Jesus.

When you embrace Jesus, love/obey Him, then you WILL have peace; because after all, it (life) is about Jesus, not us! When life gets rough, it is part of HIM drawing us to know Him better. He wants our total dependence. Once you submit to that, you can rest and have JOY.

Eggnog, Skip Bo, Sanatra, and Grandma!

2009-12-19T20:14:00.002-06:00

Some Sanatra playing quietly...

Eggnog poured...

Cards dealt...

and the silliness begins...

Jeff the big Skip Bo winner of the night!

Seven Awful Things

2009-12-08T05:42:00.001-06:00

I love Judy Rogers!

There's no place like home...

2009-11-20T20:01:00.003-06:00

We've had so many changes in our home over the last few months; my mother moving in, Olivia semi-moving out (home on the weekends), Josh moving out. Then funerals, out of town house guest, extra jobs, catering, video editing, marketing, dances, and daily life, I feel like my home is so un-kept. It is amazing how fast things can pile up and be neglected. I've been shuffling things from one spot to another.

This week we (Emma and I) have been taking it a bit slower and working through this house. De-cluttering, moving furniture, cleaning... We are working on giving my mother's room a make over while she is out of town to surprise her when she returns.

I have this constant struggle between making our home look comfortable and welcoming, yet I still need it to be a place of work. We always have sewing projects going, tons of computer work between Teaching Good Things, and Jeff's business; not to mention I need a place to keep video inventory and shipping supplies. With a small house how can I keep it homey feeling, yet practical? It's a constant struggle.

I love to look through homemaking magazines to get decorating ideas; but I've come to realize that a home full of people and productivity will NOT look like a Better Homes and Garden home, any more than I will look like a woman on the cover of a magazine. It's just not reality!

WiddlyTinks

2009-10-15T22:05:00.000-06:00

My Stick Family from WiddlyTinks.com

My Family from WiddlyTinks.com

Making a Home

2009-10-10T14:03:00.004-06:00

There are few things that bring me more satisfaction than making a home, as humble as it may be, this is where my heart is.

Oh, may I long for my heavenly more than I do this earthly home.

Adult Children and Faithfulness

2009-10-05T06:03:00.004-06:00

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
3 John 1:4

I have no greater heartache than to hear that my children stumble in the darkness.

~Me

As much as *my* dream is for all of my children to live Godly lives, living close by with their some day families (GRANDCHILDREN!), I realize that it may not work out that way. God is working in my heart to seek HIS Kingdom rather than building my own kingdom.

The only thing that matters is that they walk faithfully with God. I'd rather have a (adult) child living FAITHFULLY in Africa, than one living down the hall clinging on to their sin!

Pictures from the Lake Resort

2009-10-04T11:14:00.008-06:00

On my actual birthday last week Emma fixed she and I a nice picnic lunch and we went down to our lake and we had a sweet time.

Jeff took me out for a late afternoon lunch and Olivia SURPRISED ME by having flowers and balloons delivered at the restaurant.

Every year for my birthday I ask for the same thing. Simply a weekend (or even a day) away from everything, usually somewhere in the mountains, which you would think is easy since we live in the foothills of the Appalachians. Unfortunately, this time of year is usually busy for Jeff and it is hard to get away..

The older your kids are the harder it is to go somewhere together.

This weekend I was able to enjoy 2 of my 3 kids and of course wonderful hubby! We rented a cabin up at Lake Guntersville for a couple nights. This resort had plenty of activities the girls loved!

Olivia loving the view from the Bird's Nest deck.

Emma made time to get her running in. She will be doing a 5K later this month.

We played PUTT-PUTT...no need to tell you who won...
after all he wins at EVERYTHING!

There was an indoor pool that was pretty much unused by anyone else!

If there is a foosball table around, we HAVE to play that!But be warned, we...I mean, Jeff will WIN!

Jeff and I played A LOT of pool when we were dating,
so of course it is fun to put a little chalk on the ball!

Yes, he still lets me cheat (I have my own set of 'rules'), and he still wins!

We enjoyed just resting near the lake, watching the geese and cranes.

Last night at the Bird's Nest (part of the resort clubhouse) we went to watch the Karaoke folks. It was mostly the over 60 crowd, we were one of 2 'families' there., everyone else was older couples or singles. It was pretty hilarious. There was no alcohol served there, but I could see where it would help the situation. Olivia offered Emma $20 if she'd get up there and sing! Well...being a girl of GREAT COURAGE and always wanting to earn a buck, she did it!!! It helped that out of the 20 singers, only 2-3 of them could actually sing good. It was fun...and Emma is $20 richer today!

It was a relaxing time. I loved just sitting with my husband, who NEVER sits still. I love just being together and not necessarily saying anything.

I am truly amazed that after 23 years,
we can be more in love today than the day we married.
God has been good to us!

You Don't Always Get What You Want

2009-09-28T06:08:00.003-06:00

I counsel with women that have had reversals. This is my common advice to those that do not conceive:

I had my reversal in 2002 (over 7 years ago). I have had one miscarriage. I will turn 44 this week, more than likely I will have no more children.

Not everyone that has a reversal will have more babies, no matter how old you are, no matter how good your HSG is, no matter how careful you are to chart, etc... My reversal doctor has a high success rate, but it is not 100%, no one has that. It is not always someone's "fault" if there is no conception.

Our ability to conceive is up to God, after all OUR INTERFERING with our fertility is what got all of us in this mess to start with.

HEAR ME:

If God chooses not to give us more children, it DOES NOT mean that He loves us any less.

It has been a VERY, VERY LONG AND HARD road for me to learn the lesson of contentment; to learn that my life is all about submitting to His will, not about me being happy! Once I learn that lesson in one area of my life, He teaches it to me in another area.

I LONG for more children, but I long even more so to greet God face to face one day and hear, "Well done good and FAITHFUL servant". That means I take one day at a time, doing what He has put before me with a spirit of gratitude, rather than resentment and pouting.

I can honestly say I am a better person (more humble, kind, focused) because God has chosen NOT to give me more babies. Do I understand this? No! Do I trust Him? YES!

It's all a journey, with lots of bumps in the road, but that is what causes us to cling even tighter to Him!

Saturday Something to Think About

2009-08-29T06:37:00.000-06:00

Forgiveness

2009-08-28T07:29:00.002-06:00

I come for a line of the easily offended and grudge holders. What a curse! Since learning about Christ’s love for me and His forgiveness it helps me be able to forgive others. I think before learning to forgive it helps if we simply learn not to be easily offended. So often there really was no reason to be offended, but it was simply what we perceived to be an offense. If we could just learn to get over ourselves and walk in love, perhaps our lives could make more of an impact for the Kingdom.

From http://Peacemakers.net

Forgiveness may be described as a decision to make four promises:

"I will not dwell on this incident."
"I will not bring up this incident again and use it against you."
"I will not talk to others about this incident."
"I will not let this incident stand between us or hinder our personal relationship."

By making and keeping these promises, you can tear down the walls that stand between you and your offender. You promise not to dwell on or brood over the problem or to punish by holding the person at a distance. You clear the way for your relationship to develop unhindered by memories of past wrongs. This is exactly what God does for us, and it is what he calls us to do for others.

Food for Thought

Do you sometimes find yourself breaking (or tempted to break) one or more of the Four Promises of Forgiveness sometime after you make them? That's a very normal experience--and, believe it or not, it's an invitation from God to draw closer to him. The key is remembering and applying Hebrews 9:22. That verse tells us that in the universe there is only one source of durable forgiveness: the Cross of Christ. "Without the shedding of blood," the verse says, "there is no forgiveness."

For a time, we may be able to forgive someone out of our own willpower or our human desire for reconciliation, but eventually even our best efforts will buckle (yes, even when they're buoyed up by the Four Promises). If we want our forgiveness of others to "stick", we ourselves need to "stick" continually--to the Cross. So when you sense a long-buried hatchet rising to the surface, don't dwell on those thoughts. Instead, dwell on Christ's forgiveness of your own sin. The more real that becomes for you, the less real temptations toward unforgiveness will be.

Onward Christian Soldier

2009-07-03T19:37:00.000-06:00

It's All Vanity

2009-06-26T10:43:00.002-06:00

Either you are building the Kingdom or you're not.

When public figures die we take notice. Often they help us identify with a certain time in our life. I was a teen in the 80's, what would the 80's have been with Michael Jackson. I was not walking with God then, I'm sure if I had I would be able to tell you that life went on.

Either you are building the Kingdom or you're not.

When D. James Kennedy died that was sad, sad for us. What a great Kingdom building man left this earth.

MJ's death? It is sad that he led a life of not using his talent to point to Christ. Sad that fame, fortune and riches won't get you eternal peace...far form it!

Either you are building the Kingdom or you're not.

It's sad that dead soldiers, dead martyrs and aborted babies do not get this kind of recognition.

Either you are building the Kingdom or you're not. If you're not, may God show you mercy.

No, Mr President!

2009-05-17T13:42:00.001-06:00

Honeysuckle Jelly

2009-05-15T17:53:00.002-06:00

There are so many things I LOVE about living in the south.

I love going on my walk and smelling the honeysuckle...nothing like it!

I LOVE being able to stop at a local house to buy fresh, free range eggs. I love that you can pay on the honor system.

Last week when we stopped by to pick up eggs (and return the used cartons) the lady was at home and she gave us a complimentary jar of honeysuckle jelly.

The next day I made some whole wheat bread, added some jelly on it while it was still warm...OH MY GOODNESS! Simply heavenly. I love country life! I love being a keeper of my home!

The Symphony

2009-05-15T12:54:00.002-06:00

Emma, Me, Mom, and Olivia

The Symphony was FABULOUS last night. You have not experienced music until you have been in a concert hall w/full orchestra and 120 choir members singing Ode to Joy. Just amazing! When we got back in the car and turned the radio on, all other music resembled static! Thank you mom for the girls night out!

Head Wedding Cake

2009-04-18T16:05:00.007-06:00

Tax Day Tea Party- Trussville, AL

2009-04-15T16:10:00.002-06:00

Passover Seder

2009-04-13T07:17:00.005-06:00

Last night we attended a Passover Seder. It was beautiful. Thank you to the Travers Family, of Turn Hearts Ministries for all their hard work! This morning we know Jesus in a deeper way.

Each family had their own table. Everything was white or clear to symbolize purity.

The father, head of the household, did the ceremonial hand washing.
Olivia and Jeff.

Emma and Jeff

Young boy reading.

The head of the household breaking the bread, the Afikomin.

Blessed art Thou, O Lord our God, King of the Universe,
who brings forth bread from the earth.

Enjoying Our Little Friends

2009-04-11T20:13:00.004-06:00

Enjoying having a few of our little friends and their families over for an egg hunt.

Big Girls

Egg Relay

What a sweet bunch of kids!

Hard Providence

2009-04-09T21:58:00.006-06:00

So you're young and you've got your days planned out. You pretty much have your future planned. You know, fall in love, get married, have some kids and live happily ever after. Oh, if it were actually that easy! Maybe we should ban fairy tales?

I believe that all of us have a hard Providence at some point in our life and most will get more than one. A hard Providence is something from the hand of God, that is so heart wrenching, that we have no choice but to walk though. It is something we would NEVER choose to go through ourselves; it may be an unfaithful spouse, suffering abuse, a paralyzing accident, being barren, a prodigal child or even the death of a child.

We've experienced a few hard Providences in our married life. First was the death of our 1 day old daughter. Very little can compare to burying your child.

Second, was going through 2 surgeries to allow us to have more children that were unsuccessful. It was hard to accept a "No" from God especially since our motives were pure. That was truly like going through a death, a death of a vision.

Third, we have experienced a wayward child. When you pour all you have into raising children to the glory of God and one chooses to walk away from Truth, that is one of the most devastating things that can happen. Because as Christians we know our spiritual lives are even more important than our physical lives.

All of these situation are NOT roads I would choose to walk. All of them are things that I have not been able to *fix*. They are hard Providences.

To be completely honest, I have walked down all these roads, kicking and screaming, "I DON'T WANT TO WALK DOWN THIS ROAD!!!!! God give me something else, but not THIS! I don't want to drink from THIS stream of suffering".

Recently I was praying for dear friends who were suffering after loosing their child. I was praying for another friend who is enduring an unfaithful husband and praying for our most recent hard Providence. I asked God for understanding, none of it made sense.

Then I started thinking Biblically. I thought of the path Jesus walked to the cross. Did Jesus want the path He walked? Did He choose that or did His Father choose it for Him? His Father chose it.

He even asked his Father to remove it (the suffering/death/hell) from Him to the point of sweating blood! Can you imagine?

Even while He was on the cross He asked why His Father had forsaken Him. I have had many times of feeling forsaken, and even doubting my faith when in the depths of a hard Providence.

After He agonized in prayer with his Father in the garden and his closest friends had deserted him, what did he do?

He WILLINGLY walked the road that led to salvation for all of us. Just because He was willing doesn't mean He didn't feel the pain. And why did He do that? It was His Father's Providence,

So now I am thinking that I should not consider my self as a 'kicking and screaming Christian', As one who has to always question God's Providence for me, funny I don't question the good ones that FAR out number the bad ones. I long to be a follower who is willing to submit to the suffering so that God can be glorified. Jesus came to earth to do the will of the Father, so that WE MAY HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE!

I am learning that while I am walking the path of suffering, God's grace is sufficient. It is normal to question, to grieve, to doubt and agonize. In the end it brings me closer to Jesus, I am identifying with His sufferings, and the Father WILL be glorified. He gives me everything I need to get to the end. He even gives blessings along the way, for he has promised never to leave or forsake me, although sometimes it feels that way.

At my last breath on this journey all that matters is that I walked HIS CHOSEN path, WILLINGLY, so that I could share His life with others.

Some of us bring on hard roads because of our own doings, but he is faithful to lead us in the paths of righteousness, if we'd quit kicking and screaming.

Dave on Socialization!

2009-04-08T18:49:00.000-06:00

Gratitude of Grief

2009-04-05T13:58:00.004-06:00

Last week we helped some dear friends lay their precious baby to rest. It has been a very emotional time for all of us. We know their heart ache first hand as we buried our newborn daughter 22 years ago. When you bury your child you are forever changed.

As we walking through this past week with our sweet friends it was overwhelming to watch as the Body of Christ came along side of them, to help them carry their burden of grief. How beautiful it is to experience such love.

Although Baby Willie never breathed a breath on this earth, he has touched all of us. His life has and will be used for the glory of God.

Eager Hands- Giving to the Needy

2009-04-02T09:09:00.006-06:00

Last night we met for our monthly meeting where we work on some sort of handiwork that will be given to the needy. We are finishing up our shawls and lap blankets to be given to the elderly.

My finished shawl.

Next we will be making baby blankets for Sav-a-Life.

Frugality and Creativity in the Home

2009-03-21T07:07:00.001-06:00

Offer #1: Homestead Blessings Video Series - $45 for the set (25% off)

In this professionally-produced, 3-DVD set, you will learn how to bake bread, make soap, and create beautiful homemade candles—each skill offers a great way to save money and create uniquely personal gifts while working together as a family.

Offer #2: Frugal Homestead Ideas Collection - $30 for the set (17% off)

The Backyard Homestead: Have you ever wanted to transform your backyard into your family’s personal grocery store? Learn how now!
Just in Case: Everything you need to know about how to survive when public services fail is covered in this essential guide to family preparedness.

Offer #3: Save even more if you buy all 3 DVDs and 2 books for just $68.

Bonus Offer:
Purchase the entire collection above and SAVE 68% on The Entrepreneurial Bootcamp DVD Collection. Get the entire package for just $99!
Prepare for self-employment in an uncertain economy, and learn how to biblically escape “the rat race” and work with your family in The Entrepreneurial Bootcamp DVD collection.

Parental Rights

2009-03-11T15:27:00.001-06:00

Representative Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) is as passionate as we are about the Parental Rights Amendment, and he has committed to introducing the bill in the House again this year. Unlike last year, though, we are introducing it this year with the intent to get it passed. (Rep. Hoekstra introduced the bill last year with the intention of beginning discussion on parental rights issues.) Therefore, Rep. Hoekstra wants to have 50 co-sponsors by the time he presents the amendment bill in the House. Fifty is not a requirement, nor a magic number. But it is a significant number. Enough, we hope, to communicate to the committee and to the entire House that we are serious about this bill.

As of today, we have 31 co-sponsors committed to joining Rep. Hoekstra. We need 19 more to reach our goal and introduce this bill in the House of Representatives.

Today, we need your help to reach that goal. Please check our list of sponsors and take the appropriate action:

1) If you live in the district of a representative who is already on our list of co-sponsors, consider sending them a brief note expressing appreciation to them for standing for this vital cause.

2) If your representative is not already on our list, we need you to call your congressman’s Washington office and urge your representative to contact Pete Hoekstra’s office (it’s pronounced “HOKE-struh”) and become a co-sponsor of the Parental Rights Amendment.

In either event, you can find your representative’s (Washington office) contact information by typing your ZIP code into the box at Congress.org.

Thank you so much for participating in this vital push to get the Parental Rights Amendment introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. When we have succeeded with every step, and the Parental Rights Amendment is added to the Constitution, the day of its introduction in the House, with 50 or more co-sponsors, will be a significant day in American history. Today is your chance to bring that day about!

Gratefully yours,

Michael P. Farris
HSLDA Chairman

Heritage Quilt

2009-03-10T20:10:00.002-06:00

Here is another heritage quilt I made for my great aunt who is turning 83 this week.

You can go here to see how to make a PHOTO QUILT.

Diligence in Fighting for our Rights as Parents

2009-02-27T08:35:00.002-06:00

Do you ever sit in amazement and wonder how in the world we got to the point we are in our nation? Well personally I believe it is mainly because we have had it so good and have not been obeying God's commandments, and secondly we have not paid a lot of attention to how our "representatives" have been representing us!

So now it is time for the sleeping majority to wake up and be active, and that can take the form as a letter or two. :o) If you love your children and value your parental rights given by God listen to this.

Here is a direct link to JOIN THE FIGHT

Parentalrights.org has also suggested we appeal to Glenn Beck to cover this issue on his widely-watched program. Here is an excerpt from their letter, with Beck's email address...below that is the email I sent. You could copy and send it with your name, or write your own, but I think this matter is one of those things we do not need to sit idly by and cross our fingers.

This is something to take action on--and these are easy actions. Please consider emailing and/or joining parentalrights.org in the fight for your children.

"We want to carry the message to an even broader national audience through Fox News personality Glenn Beck. We believe we can get Michael Farris on his show if enough viewers email Mr. Beck and ask about the Parental Rights Amendment or the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Even if you do not watch his show, you can email him and push to get the message heard.

Please, before you close this email or move on to something else, take just a moment to email Mr. Beck at me@glennbeck.com. Tell him you think he should cover the Parental Rights Amendment, or tell him he should look into the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, or both. Urge him to have Michael Farris from ParentalRights.org on the program to discuss this issue.

We truly believe that together we can win this fight, but we need you to contact this national news program and help us get Mike Farris on the air!

Thank you so much for helping make history by passing the Parental Rights Amendment."

Sincerely,

Michael Ramey

Director of Communicatons & Research

ParentalRights.org

Mr. Beck,

I SO appreciate your stand for truth and common sense in a culture that seems to have lost all sense of its existence.

I am writing to urge you to consider covering the Parental Rights Amendment, to oppose the UN Treaty proposed by Barbara Boxer, an issue which threatens to greatly hinder our parental rights and possibly even criminalize us for passing on our religious values to our children.

This is one of the most dangerous proposals I've seen yet in this new administration, and I believe it is urgent that we fight it with all our might.

You might also consider inviting Michael Farris, of Parents.org to appear on the show to discuss the matter.

Many thanks for considering this crucial topic.

Sincerely,

Kathy Brodock

Get in on this GIVEAWAY!

2009-02-23T08:26:00.002-06:00

Vision Forum is allowing us to give away some really great gifts! One winner will be able to choose a gift from the albums below when the contest ends on February 27th.

Rules are simple: Leave a comment stating which set you would like to win and I'll enter your name in the drawing once. Leave a comment AND post about the give away on your blog (including the link in your comment) and I'll enter your name twice.

That's it! The contest will end at 10 p.m CST on Friday, February 27. Be sure your comment contains a link to your contact info so I'll be able to get an address from you. Good luck!

One of the following prizes to be given away:

*True Beauty: 8 inspiring CDs recorded at the 2008 Father and Daughter Retreat

*The 2008 Witherspoon School of Law and Public Policy: an up-to-date look at the most important constitutional battles we face, an overview of the biblical and historical foundations of Western law, and a training tool for Christians who aspire to speak with precision to the great ethical and apologetic battles of our day. This album includes 24 CDs.

*Let Freedom Ring: 13 CDs from the Philadelphia Faith and Freedom Tour

*Lights, Cameras, Action! Highlights from the 2009 Christian Filmmakers Academy

*History Has Been Made: Moments and Messages from the 2009 San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival: Featured Speakers & Performing Artists Include: Kirk Cameron, Dean Jones, Stephen Kendrick, the Von Trapp Children, Charlie Zahm, Voddie Baucham, R.C. Sproul, Jr., Doug Phillips, George Sarris, Kevin Swanson, Chuck Bentley, Jon Erwin, and Ted Pittenger

You MUST leave your comment on my other blog so I have them all in one place. :o) It is worth the extra click!!!

Serving Jesus Christ

2009-02-23T08:22:00.000-06:00

We serve Christ

by

serving others!

Jkebana Class

2009-02-20T07:34:00.004-06:00

Yesterday, Emma and I went to a Jkebana Class, which is Japanese floral design.

Now we had no real interest in this type of floral arranging, but I am all for learning new things about other cultures. When a fellow homeschool mom's sister, who was visiting from out of town and who has been an airline stewardess for over 30 years, offered to do a little class for a few girls, how could I resist? :o)

Sandra was VERY sweet and taught a great class for the girls.
She usually flies to Japan and London, so she is a wealth of information.

It was interesting to hear a little about the Japanese culture.

The class ended with tea and some Japanese cookies. Thank you Jan, Samantha and Sandra!

Change

2009-02-19T21:10:00.000-06:00

Ronald Reagan:

“All great change in America begins at the dinner table.“

Family and Friends

2009-02-18T22:51:00.007-06:00

Here are a few shots from the last couple days.

Sweet Emma...what happen to our tomboy?

We (Kelly and I) had a birthday outing for our dear, SWEET friend Robin.

It is so wonderful to be able to sit with like-minded friends and just laugh and sort through the world's problems. I am VERY blessed!!!

Robin is ummm... should I say? Heck yeah.!..she is 40 something. Not only that, God has chosen to bless her with another child in the womb. She is a beautiful mom who has more spunk than most people I know. I am so thankful she shares her family with me.

By the way, Kelly is pregnant too, gonna be a busy summer! :o)

My precious Grandma (85 next month) has been here for the past 6 weeks visiting, she lives 1100 miles away in upstate New York. sigh... Time is so precious. She has the most meek and gentle spirit you could ever see in a person.

So good to have Josh at home.

I can't wait for Olivia to return home this weekend, I've missed her so much. I just want to huddle all my chicks under my wing and keep them forever, but I also want grandchildren...ahhh to find that rare jewel of contentment!

Our 4 month old puppy, a mud puddle and a frog, it was a hoot!

He was bouncing all over the place, made me think of Tigger.

Valentine's Eve

2009-02-13T23:02:00.003-06:00

Jeff and I have plans tomorrow night to attend a Valentine's Banquet, so tonight I wanted to do something special for the family. So I fixed a few goodies, including strawberries and chocolate fondue.

Added some beautiful classical music and candle light...

And Jeff's mother-in-law (my mom), my grandma and Emma...ahhh a beautiful night with some of my favorite people! Can love get any better? Josh was at work, and Olivia is out of town, so it wasn't perfect, but pretty close!

Handiwork and Giving to the Needy

2009-02-08T18:36:00.000-06:00

We have recently started a group of girls and moms that would like to crochet or knit to give to the needy.

This is a perfect ministry for the women, especially for those that have several children and find it hard to get out and participate in other outreach projects. We meet once a month for a couple hours and work on our projects, but the majority of the project is worked on at home. If the ladies/girls cannot come to the meeting that is OK; the goal of having a group is to inspire and motivate each other!

The great thing about crocheting or knitting is that you can take it with you while you sit in the waiting room or in the car while the kids are at practice. Doing handiwork is something that takes up little space, unlike quilting or scrap booking! Most handiwork projects can be stopped at any point and picked up when it is convenient.

Proverbs 31 gives us so much to aspire for:

She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.

Proverbs 31:13

I just love this verse, “…and works with eager hands!” Another version says, “…works willingly with her hands.”

Just think on that! What do most girls do with their hands today? Are they eagerly looking for ways to work with them? Are they looking how to be a blessing to those around them? I dare say most girls spend many hours texting and few hours “eagerly working”.

She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.

Proverbs 31:20

One of my goals with our handiwork group is to use our projects to give to the needy. There are many elderly people in nursing homes that don’t receive many gifts, especially something hand made for them. We are also looking for elderly people in our community that may need the warmth of a shawl or a lap blanket.

She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Proverbs 31:27

We are of great service to our husband when we manage the home efficiently. If we are truly meeting his needs, caring for our home, training the children and reaching out to the needy, there is little time for idleness. We need to be training our daughters not to be idle. As our daughters mature there are so many ways for them to be of service to mom and reaching out to the needy. There simply is no time to be idle. Be careful not to confuse rest and relaxation with being idle.

A handmade item will minister to a person’s heart in a way that little else can.

A few handiwork tips:

***Find what works for you. Some prefer crochet over knit, it really does not matter, just be eager!

***If you don’t know how, find someone that does. Most handiwork people LOVE to share their skills! (Or you can buy my DVD!)

***In the evening hours while family reading is being done have something in your hands.

***Keep your current handiwork in a bag or basket close to the chair you usually sit in.

***Once you become comfortable with a pattern crocheting or knitting can be very relaxing.

***If you will be out at lessons, practices, or appointments with the children, take your handiwork with you. You will be amazed how it helps the time go by, and just how much handiwork you can get done.

***If the phone rings and you know it will be a long conversation you can still talk and crochet/knit at the same time.

***When making an afghan or shawl use a larger hook ( I, J or K) and a thicker yarn, it will make your work move much faster.

***Set a goal of one or two projects a year to give to someone needy.

***As you work on the project, pray for the person you will be giving it to, even if you do not know them, God does!

***Watch for good sales and change of season clearance in the yarn department.

***Don’t think it has to be perfect to give to someone, it doesn’t!!! More than likely you’ll be the only one that sees your mistakes!

He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD,

and he will reward him for what he has done.

Proverbs 19:17

Our group’s goals so far are:

January and February -Shawls and lap blankets for the elderly.

March and April -Baby blankets for Sav-A-Life (Crisis Pregnancy Center)

May and June- Booties and hats for local NICUs

If anyone has material possessions and

sees his brother in need but has no pity on him,

how can the love of God be in him?

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue

but with actions and in truth.

1 John 3:17-18

Perhaps this is something you could do in your community? Perhaps this is something you could get a group of girls and moms together for to encourage a spirit of mercy?

… for God loves a cheerful giver.

2 Corinthians 9:7

Making and Managing Money for Teens

2009-02-07T07:55:00.000-06:00

Do your kids constantly ask you for money?

Do you ever hear, “I’m bored”?

Do your children spend money on foolish things that disappear in no time?

Do they spend money as fast as they can get it?

If so, then it is time that your child learns the value of a dollar and beings to earn his own.

When children work for their money

they value it so much more!

The best education a child can receive is from

REAL LIFE

while they are still under the guidance of their parents.

As parents you should encourage them to put their special talents to work for them.

Point out ways for them to use their mind and ability to create their own home business.

Making and Managing Money for Teens was written by an 18 year old with a true entrepreneurial spirit. Olivia Brodock shares simple, yet practical ways to make and manage money.

Olivia Brodock gives 45 suggestions that could get your child started on the road to being an entrepreneur.

Olivia and her family operate two family businesses from their home, and she has her own business; Southern Belle Bath Products. She has also authored the book Growing and Using Culinary Herbs.

Every young person has opportunities to make money all around them. They simply need to figure out what they are good at, or at the very least, what they are capable of doing. They need to identify the needs of others and figure out a way to fill that need and profit from it.

Making and Managing Money for Teens not only offers suggestions about how to make money, but it explains the importance of sharing, saving and spending money wisely.

If you buy Making and Managing Money for Teens

before midnight on Tuesday,

February 10, 2009,

you can buy it at

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PLUS you will receive THREE FREE BONUSES!

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This book is in PDF format and you will need a PDF reader to read it. You can download a free one here: ADOBE READER

Free Copy of Fireproof!

2009-01-28T14:50:00.001-06:00

There's just a couple of days left in the Vision Forum New Year's Clearance Sale, and everything in the store is still 25-50% off.

But the deal just got BETTER because between now and January 31, every order of $100 or more will include a free copy of the hit movie, Fireproof!

This incredible new movie by the producers of Facing the Giants, staring Kurt Cameron, was the number one grossing independent film of 2008!

How to Make an Ice Ring

2009-01-25T17:24:00.004-06:00

Ice rings are a simple and elegant touch to any punch bowl.

You can use an ice ring pan or a bunt pan. I like bunt pans because they are deeper, which makes a thicker ring that will not melt as quickly.

Place fruit, pineapple, cherries, grapes, strawberries, edible flowers, mint leaves, etc... to fill about a third of the pan. Pour just enough punch or water to cover the fruit. Don't fill past the fruit, it will cause the fruit to float; you want it all to be settled in the bottom.

Place in freezer until frozen.

Add an inch of punch or water at a time and freeze. Repeat until pan is full. If you add too much punch/water at once it will cause the ring to float.

With this ring after the fruit and first layer were frozen in, I added a bunch of ice cubes and filled the rest with water.

Let the ring sit at room temperature for 20 minutes and it should slide right into the punch bowl. You can also set it in water for a few minutes.

One thick ice ring will last for about 2 hours.

You can make your rings weeks ahead of time and store them in bags in the freezer until party time.

Other things that can be added to an ice ring:
Mint Leaves
Orange Rind
Lemon Rind
Lime Rind
Kiwi
Violets
Pansies
Rose Petals

Think COLOR!

Blogs for Life

2009-01-22T08:24:00.001-06:00

If you have time today, tune in and watch the live streaming,

Mood Rings

2009-01-19T19:34:00.000-06:00

This is a hoot!

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

2009-01-19T19:01:00.002-06:00

1 bottle ketchup
1 cup brown sugar
1 can chunk pineapples
3-4 T Worcestershire Sauce
1/2 cup vinegar

In a sauce pan, on medium heat, add all ingredients. You can adjust to your taste by adding more sugar or vinegar.

Once it is hot, add:

1-2 T Corn Starch, this will thicken the sauce a little.

Let simmer for 10 minutes.

Add a bag of cooked meat balls. Let simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow flavor to penetrate the meatballs.

Pineapple Almond Punch

2009-01-19T18:52:00.001-06:00

1 c. sugar
6-8 cups water

Bring water to a boil, stir in sugar until dissolved. Let cool. This insures that the sugar does not settle to the bottom.

2 lg. cans unsweetened pineapple juice
2 sm. bottles almond flavoring

In a large container add the water-sugar mixture, pineapple juice and almond flavoring; mix well.

Pour into gallon buckets or gallon Ziplock bags. Freeze

Take out of freezer 2-3 hours before serving, allow to get slushy.

2 2-litters of 7 -Up, Twist-Up, OR ginger ale

Add 7-Up or your choice of soda, just before serving.

Serves 20-30 8 oz. servings

Austin Wedding Reception Pictures

2009-01-18T17:53:00.008-06:00

Here are a few pictures from the wedding reception we catered this weekend for 150 people. The reception was held in the beautiful home of the Groom's parents.

Punch

Pineapple-Almond Punch

Children's Table- Goldfish crackers, Gummy Bears, Chocolate Dipped Pretzels, Orange Slices, PB&J Sandwiches.

Shrimp

Chicken Salad Croissant

Goat Cheese with Fruit/Nuts
We also did a baked brie, but I didn't get a picture of that.

Marinated and Un-marinate Cheese, Crackers
Marinated Olives to the left.

Vegetable Display

Fruit Display

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Pigs in a Blanket

Ham and Cheese Croissants

Mints, Roses and Leaves

Room with the Groom's Cakes.

Groom's Cakes, Strawberry, Chocolate and New York Cheese Cake.

Fruit and Vegetable Displays

Food Table

Sheet cake with the family initial on it for extra servings.

Dining Room with Wedding Cake

Wedding Cake, serves 125

One of my wonderful 'Servers'...Emma :o)
I don't have a picture of my STRONG, WONDERFUL husband,
who did all the heavy lifting and kept the trash emptied! :o)
Olivia was also a server, and a great one at that.

Events like this is a team effort, everyone putting in 110%.

It's what is on the inside that counts

2009-01-13T20:56:00.002-06:00

This cute!

New Cake Tutorials

2009-01-12T20:01:00.002-06:00

I posted a couple new tutorials on my Cakes and Candy Blog, check them out.

How to make decorations from Royal Icing.

How to make individual servings from a sheet cake.

Pill inventor slams ... pill

2009-01-10T07:41:00.001-06:00

Here is a very interesting article.

Oh the mess of things we make when we reject God's plan.

Pill inventor slams ... pill

He described families who had decided against reproduction as "wanting
to enjoy their schnitzels while leaving the rest of the world to get
on with it."

The fall in the birth rate, he said, was an "epidemic" far worse, but
given less attention, than obesity. Young Austrians, he said, were
committing national suicide if they failed to procreate. And if it
were not possible to reverse the population decline they would have to
understand the necessity of an "intelligent immigration policy.

"Somebody above suspicion like Carl Djerassi ... is saying that each
family has to produce three children to maintain population levels,
but we're far away from that," he said.

********Kathy here: So if 3 were enough to MAINTAIN, what would 6-10
do, we would flourish and prosper, just as God commanded us to!*****

Read the whole story here:
http://cathnews.com/article.aspx?aeid=11004

I also posted about the movie Demographic Winter a few months ago. If
you have not watched that you need to. You can watch it for free online.
http://www.demographicwinter.com/index.html

It's not about having 'one more baby'!!! It's all about obeying God.

Responsibility

2009-01-07T19:36:00.003-06:00

More Here

What's going on this month at TGT

2009-01-05T10:51:00.002-06:00

Over on our Teaching Good Things site we have begun a series on teaching responsibility. This is a month long series, don't miss it!

We are also doing a give away! Hop on over there an get entered, even if it is not something you'd like you could give it as a gift!

This month I will be giving away a custom made crocheted name. You can choose from block or script letters, and the colors beige or white.

Because this is custom made it will not be shipped until the end of February.

Giveaway ends January 31 at midnight.

True Worship

2009-01-03T23:25:00.001-06:00

He (God) has done such great things for us, and he has shown so much good will towards
us, that to pay him reverence seems not so much the call of duty as the natural
impulse of love.

~Spurgeon

Important Techie Reminders

2009-01-02T09:39:00.000-06:00

This is some wise advice from a friend of ours who deals with this stuff every day.

_________

With the 2008 coming to a end and the new year upon us, some might think
that cyber attacks where a thing of the past... which I wish was true
but is not..

I would like to point out a couple of "tech tips" concerning cyber
attacks which are on the raise.

At work I'm seeing more spam/junk email, viruses and other cyber attacks
than in previous years. (one of my geek things I have to do is review
daily reports so that is how I keep in touch with the cyber attack
levels) Just within the past 2 months, I have seen more viruses infect
computers at the bank then I have in 8 years combined.....

The following tech tips are good reminders for your home computer use.

...Tech tips....

..Email..

- Watch out for emails that come from 'me' aka 'you', this is
called a 'spoofed' email, where the sender of the email uses 'your'
email address

- Be careful of opening emails from unknown senders

- Sell gimmicks

- Strange email attachments, especially emails that have an
attachment that requires you to type in a so called 'secret' password to
open it

- Email forwards, when you see a email that has a 'fw' in the
prefix of a subject means that it is a forward, however if you see
multiple 'fw' it could be a spam or a junk mailing

..Internet..

- Pop ups... be very very careful about pop ups, if you just click
once an infected pop up could infect your computer with 'malware'

- Downloads... remember that downloading anything from the
internet should be a work related function and from a legit website

- Strange website names... take notice of the website address and
watch out for .edu,.org and third world nations, ending websites. (i.e.
.en, .fr, .uz, .pl)

- Personal info, you should never give your personal information
out over the internet unless you trust that website. I would never do it
unless that webpage had a SSL security certificate which would show up
as a 'key lock' in the bottom right of the internet browser

- watch out for websites that auto redirect you to a different
website

- if it is too good to be true on the a website, then it is a
gimmick, don't believe everything that you read online

- malware and adaware are hot buttons in the internet security.
These are normally transmitted by a pop up or a fake web site that
requires you to click on it.

A local bank internet banking website was hacked last month and had amalware root trojan virus that was being hosted on their website.. I say this only as a reminder that it is huge thing going on right now and it is important to be mindful of what/how you do online.

Another real life geek story, is just the increased amount of spam/junkemail, the bank that I work at gets about 11,000 incoming emails a day and of that only about 1,200 of it is good email.. of course these levels of spam are in a corporate environment but the amount of this being pushed/sent over the internet is on the raise.

_________

I can tell you the amount of spam to our website has skyrocketed. I delete hundreds of spam comments each day.

I just thought all of you should be reminded of these things, just like I do. Also, go over these things with your children, often!

What does your name stand for?

2009-01-02T09:27:00.001-06:00

This is what we came up with last night for our name challenge. We had a lot of lively discussion while choosing our traits.

B-Benevolent………………Giving to others needs without expecting in return.

R-Resourceful……………..Making the most if what we have. Finding value in things other discard.

O-Obedient to Christ……Continually learning more about Christ and obeying His commands.

D-Dependable…………….Always keep your word. Go the extra mile to finish all tasks. Serve others.

O-Overcomer………………Never indulge in self pity. Call on God's grace to find ways through a problem.

C-Content…………………..Being thankful for where God has placed you; being satisfied with what you have, not doubting God's providence.

K-Kindhearted…………….Take your thoughts captive. Believe the best in others. Using words and actions that put others first.

PURGE, PURGE, PURGE!

2008-12-29T08:58:00.003-06:00

There is nothing like a house full of new stuff to make a mom want to PURGE the house of all UNNECESSARY STUFF!

Starting in my bedroom and working my way through the house today...oh yeah, and I am delegating areas to the kiddos too! :o)

One trash pile, one thrift store pile, one e-bay pile, one BARTERING pile.

Christmas Pictures

2008-12-26T20:39:00.008-06:00

Christmas Day

Emma made the place settings.

We had the honor of the King family for the afternoon, with the exception of their husband/dad as he is serving in Iraq.

It was so nice to have some small children around.

I can't wait for grandchildren. You can join us in prayer for Godly mates for our children.

The King Family is who Olivia has been traveling some with this year.

Aren't they ADORABLE?!

Christmas Night

Dirty Dish Duty

The day after Christmas (today) we had the Richards' Family over for supper.

Just as the Richards pulled up Jeff was called out with the fire department to a car accident, and was gone over 3 hours. (I will rant about drunk drivers soon!) Mrs. Richards was home sick. We had a good time visiting and eating the meal of venison that Olivia and Emma prepared. That's my mother in purple.

After Mr. Richards went home the kids decided to stick around and play a LOUD game of Pictionary!

Olivia's Surprise!

2008-12-26T16:47:00.003-06:00

Olivia has dreamed and planned for home of her own ever since she was a toddler. She has never doubted God's calling on her as a woman. She has been saving things for her future home for years. This Christmas she was given something to keep her investments in!

Her DAD made and surprised her with her own hope chest.
For ONCE in her life she was speechless! ;o)

Excuse the 'work clothes'. ;o)

Building a HOME

2008-12-23T21:56:00.003-06:00

The atmosphere in the home is created not only by the decor, but by the attitude of it's members. The wife's attitude is pivotal. She is the one that sets the tone for the day. She can defuse an potentially explosive situation and comfort hurts. She can sooth anxiety and encourage the downcast.

She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her.

Proverbs 31:26-28

A virtuous woman creates a place of peace, although not always perfection. She is responsible for making the house feel like a home, but with a contentious mindset, a sharp tongue and a discontent spirit she can tear down her house with her own hands.

The wise woman builds her house,
but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

Proverbs 14:1

These are skills that have to be developed and rarely come naturally to a woman. They have to be taught and lived out. They are learned in the everyday life, often failing over and over again as we give into our selfishness. In order to make a house a home, to meet the needs of family members (especially our husbands) and make guest feel welcome, a woman must humbly call on God for wisdom and courage. She must also muster up every bit of self discipline that is in her to reject the lies of the culture and practice giving of herself.

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Proverbs 31:30-31

Use this Christmas season to go the extra mile to create a HOME with pleasant memories. Shower others with forgiveness and grace.

Evergreen Basket

2008-12-23T21:23:00.003-06:00

Use a wet oasis in a basket or what ever you'd like, the more unique the better.

First fill in the lower outer edges with fuller greens.

Fill in open spaces with 2-3 different greens.

Use pine cones, berries, ornaments, twigs...anything to garnish your arrangement.

These are good for ourdoors-entryway arrangements, or anywhere in the house. Be sure to watch the little ones if you are using live berries! If you keep them watered they will last 2-3 weeks.

Front Porch

2008-12-23T21:18:00.009-06:00

I love to decorate for Christmas with greens, it is so simple and CHEAP!
These are a few shots from our front porch...excuse the leaves that have not been raked yet.

This is just a vine wreath, all you have to do is stick evergreens in.

Here is a table next to our front door.
The berries came from our yard, and greens from close by.

A few greens over the door.

The arbor, that could use some more greens, yes the yard needs raking.

Window Boxes

Interior Decorations

2008-12-23T21:15:00.004-06:00

As I said earlier, I LOVE evergreens!

Just scattering a few around your home creates a festive mood!

This is our dining area.

A few greens on the top shelf in the kitchen.

The top of our refrigerator. The black and white picture you cannot see very well is of my great grandmother and her father and sister. My great grandmother came over here on "the boat" from Switzerland when she was a child. She was so funny!

Of all people, Christians should be celebrating the birth of Christ. We need to be enjoying life!

Bread and Butter

2008-12-22T21:31:00.003-06:00

I love to make homemade wheat rolls.

Because they are wheat they are more dense than white rolls,
so having some herb butter or sweetened cream cheese on warm rolls is perfect!

Soften some cream cheese in the mixer and add a couple tablespoons of honey.
Yum, heavenly!

Soften REAL butter in mixer, add your favorite herb, dill or rosemary are both great choices.

Hanging Greens

2008-12-22T18:30:00.003-06:00

Jeff and I spent the afternoon hanging greens. We made this square wreath with some sticks tied together with floral wire. Then we added a bunch of evergreen twigs and a ribbon.

If it wasn't for those people

2008-12-21T22:56:00.002-06:00

Here is a GREAT post by Randy Booth, hop on over there and read the rest of it!

Don’t people just irritate you? Especially the ones that are close to you? The better we know them the worse they are. And to make things even worse, many of them are reproducing. If I could simply pick the people or families that are just like me and my family, then community life would be a breeze. But then they too would probably start to get on my nerves.

Soon the gripping, complaining, criticizing, gossiping, impatience, avoidance, and isolation set in and church becomes a place where we simply “do our duty,”... for the rest of the story.

Gingerbread House

2008-12-19T14:55:00.001-06:00

Make It, Give It or Sell It- Snowballs

2008-12-06T17:12:00.007-06:00

Lay freezer paper down, shinny side up to work on. You could also use wax paper.

Melt candle wax or paraffin wax in a double boiler on med-high heat. Do not melt on high.

Cut wicks about 6 inches. If you are not using wicks that are already wax coated you need to dip them in your melted wax and let dry.

Melt wax. Add candle fragrance if desired.

Add a small amount of wax to a wick, let cool a little bit more.

Squeeze wax around wick.

Fork more 'fluffed' wax around he base. Get it about half the size you want and let it harden a bit, while it is still warm you may need to reshape it. Add more 'fluffed' wax to make it the size you want.

Trim wick to 1-2 inches above top of snowball.

I buy the 10 pound slab of wax from Hobby Lobby when it is half off

I have 5 of snowballs for sale, unscented for $6 each, plus shipping.

This is similar to the snowball, just shaping it differently, adding small twigs for the arms, a strip of fabric for the scarf, and cloves for the eyes and mouth..

For more projects go here:

Granola

2008-12-03T18:33:00.008-06:00

Granola can be real simple with a few ingredients or it can be loaded with goodies!

For this batch I used:
Rolled Oats
Oat Groats
Coconut Oil
Honey
Raises
Sunflower Seeds
Pumpkin Seeds
Salt
Vanilla
Cinnamon

Measurements do not need to be exact.

Place 6 cups old fashion rolled oats and 2-3 cups oat groats. You don't have to use the groats.
Add about 1/2 cup of oil, I used coconut oil, and 1 tsp. vanilla. Stir to moisten oats.

Heat about 1/2-1 cup of honey, add to oats and oil.
Add 2 tsp. of cinnamon and 1 tsp. salt.
Stir well.

Place on baking sheet. Bake on 200 for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
It is very important to bake it on low.

Remove from oven; pour into a large bowl, add nuts, seeds, raises.

Place in an airtight container.
To make labels, print the ingredients off on your printer and use wide packing table to stick it on.

Great for gift giving or to sell.

Sausage Stuffing

2008-11-29T20:56:00.005-06:00

These measurements are approximate, you can adjust to your taste. This batch of dressing was about 30 servings.

Brown about 2 pounds of bulk Italian Sausage, drain grease.

Chop 5-6 stalks of celery and a few onions.

Saute the onions and celery with a pound of mushrooms, just until slightly tender.

Add salt, pepper, ground sage, parsley and rosemary (sage is the key!).

Add the onion mixture to the sausage, stir well.

Melt a stick of butter and add turkey (or chicken) broth to the butter.

You can use store bought breadcrumbs, or make your own.
We had a BUNCH of hot dog buns left over from a get together,
so I chopped them up for the stuffing.
I used 3-4 packages for this batch.

Add the sausage mixture to the bread. Mix it up good.

Pour the broth/butter in slowly, mixing until all the bread is moist.
Don't add too much, you don't want soup.

Butter (or oil) your baking pan; pour stuffing in pan. You can also use a roasting bag (saves A LOT of clean up), or a crock pot. Bake on 300 for 1 hour, until hot all through.

Great with turkey or chicken!!!
This freezes well.
Make a double/triple batch and free some.

2008-11-27T18:26:00.000-06:00

Hurry, Sale ends TONIGHT!

2008-11-25T14:22:00.000-06:00

Make It, Give It or Sell it!!!

2008-11-17T15:34:00.001-06:00

Visit our website for ideas!

Learning from the Amish?

2008-11-13T11:40:00.002-06:00

Be sure to hop on over to our Teaching Good Things Blog and read about what we can learn from the Amish.

How to Make Italian Meatballs

2008-11-11T17:04:00.003-06:00

In a sauce pan, heat up some sauce, at least 4 cups worth.

These will be cooked in the sauce. I save some aside when I make a big batch for spaghetti.

Add bread crumbs or cracker crumbs.
I used whole wheat bread crumbs...slipping in extra nutrition.

Add a couple eggs.

Throw in two tablespoons Italian seasoning, two teaspoons garlic salt and one-half teaspoon black pepper.

These are not exact measurements, adjust to your taste.
You could also add chopped onion and bell pepper.

Mix thoroughly with your hands.

Make golf ball size meatballs.

Add meatballs to hot sauce. Keep on low heat.

Cover pot.

Do not stir until the outsides of the meatballs have cooked some, about 20 minutes,
otherwise they may fall apart.
Simmer for a couple hours.
Skim off grease before serving.

Serve on a piece of whole wheat bread.
You can also add some Parmesan cheese to the top.
Serve with a salad and you have a complete meal.

How to Make Breadcrumbs

2008-11-10T13:38:00.003-06:00

Use stale or dense bread to make breadcrumbs.

These were made with some whole wheat bread that actually came out too 'heavy', so instead of throwing it away I tore it up into smaller pieces and put it in my Vita Mix (the BEST blender).

You could do the same thing in a food processor.

I let it chop/blend for just a few seconds.

Bag up in a freezer bag and keep in the freezer until you need them for meatballs, meatloaf or stuffing. You can add your seasoning if you'd like, that way it will be all ready!

Happy Birthday Olivia

2008-11-08T23:33:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was Olivia's birthday. I cannot believe she is all grown up. Well actually, when she was born she was the most content baby, always happy. Even as a little girl she was very grown-up acting.

Not only is she my sweet daughter but she is my kindred spirit.

I am blessed!

May God grant her a Christ loving husband and a house full of children! For this is her heart's desire.

Create a Free Slideshow

Fall Domestic Class- Bread Making!

2008-11-08T08:04:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was our Bread Making class taught by Tiffany Lee and her wonderful sisters, Emily and Abby.

OH MY! I wish you could have smelled that kitchen! It was rainy and chilly outside but with the warmth of the ovens and the rich aroma of breads baking...mmm....it sure could could put you in the Christmas spirit in no time!

We made whole wheat bread and calzones (sp?). Each family brought salads to eat with out calzones...it was wonderful!

You can read more about our other Domestic Classes on our website Teaching Good Things

Fall Domestic Class- Live Arrangements

2008-11-08T07:58:00.003-06:00

It was perfect timing for our Live Greenery Class yesterday as the holiday season is just around the corner. With these arrangements you can decorate for Thanksgiving and Christmas!

Get Service

2008-11-04T17:52:00.000-06:00

A Fun Pumpkin Cake and Another Giveaway!

2008-10-30T07:13:00.002-06:00

I saw this cake this morning and am just LOVIN' IT! Now I would NEVER, EVER pay $110 for a cake, but this could be easily made, not only for ~~Halloween~~ Reformation Parties, but for Thanksgiving and harvest get-togethers! Of course, having a few cake skills helps, but I think anyone could do this.

Be sure to hop on over to our TEACHING GOOD THINGS Blog and check out the giveaway this week, plus a bunch of great ideas of how to use those pumpkins!

Stay Home

2008-10-22T06:48:00.000-06:00

"Stay, stay at home, my heart, and rest;
Home-keeping hearts are happiest,
For those that wander they know not where
are full of trouble and full of care;
To stay at home is best."

~*~ Longfellow ~*~

Cannng Salsa

2008-10-17T08:19:00.006-06:00

Emma and I canned salsa and tomatoes yesterday. It's a lot of work but so worth it!

From Canning Salsa

Click on the picture for the slide show.

There are dozens of salsa recipes and they can all be adjusted to your taste.

Population Bomb? HA!

2008-10-14T06:07:00.001-06:00

When man does things in his own wisdom he makes a mess!

Movin...

2008-09-20T13:54:00.003-06:00

To help me be a better steward of my time, I've decided to move the majority of my blogging over to our website. I will still post tutorials here for now, but the rest of my blogging will be HERE!

A Homeschool Freebie Site!

2008-09-19T14:06:00.000-06:00

I recently found out about a freebie homeschool site. Each week day you can get something completely free! How cool is that?!

Next Tuesday Teaching Good Things will be featured and we will be offering a free download of one of our e-books to everyone, AND we will be offering an EXTRA BONUS! Be sure to stop by!

Ya gotta listen to this...

2008-09-18T10:41:00.003-06:00

I know our topic is meeting the needs of the orphans this week, but to be able to do that successfully we need to have our home base covered, with strong marriages, functional homes and living to the glory of God. THEN we can reach out to the needs of orphans.

I listened to this is a great broadcast this morning and I just have to share it!!! It is worth taking 20 minutes to listen to.

During Kevin Swanson's broadcast he interviews Scott Brown. I just read his article on Motherhood this morning. Very encouraging!

The beauty and power of home life is hard to overestimate. Godly women are called to take responsibility for this realm. In doing so, they build homes with an investment in labor and love for beauty and stability that would make a home a center of the ministry of the church; a source of peace for all who enter there; a place of hospitality. The home is the fountain of society, and the spring from which flows the members of the church, the ranks of business and the citizens of the realm. So please understand how important home life really is even when so many do not value it. The Sarah Palin’s of this world are the wrong role models. They defeat what is beautiful and good and lead a host of followers to do the same.

Read the whole article here.