Simple Reflections

Piano Book Giveaway

2011-04-24T15:07:00.001-04:00

http://thechurchpianist.com/free-music/bless-the-lord-arranged-by-gina-sprunger-book-giveaway/comment-page-1/#comment-2069

Reflecting Back On Our Past Blessings

2011-02-02T15:54:00.005-05:00

Some of you may have seen my post the other day on FB about how my sweet devotional time with our girls before school began brought us to tears (except for our 4 year old--she didn't quiet understand what all the big deal was) That day was probably the SWEETEST devotional time I'd ever spent with our girls. I had their attention, I had their minds, I had their hearts...which in turn had us in tears :-) Showers of Blessings!

We were talking about how THINGS just don't make us happy. I just got the girls (well, they paid for most of it with Christmas monies grandma/pa gave them but I pitched in a little too) Thirty-One bags. Have you heard of THIRTY-ONE? Well, if you haven't, and you decide to check it out...you'll love them. If you like organization, you'll love THIRTY-ONE. So now I'm hooked on Scentsy (for which I sell hint hint lol) and Thirty-One (for which I DO NOT sell but LOVE)

Anyways, I mentioned how they were just so excited about getting their Thirty-One bags. They would anticipate each day for the UPS man to come (and a few days he did come to our house--with more Scenty of coarse and they were sorely disappointed) Oh the excitement went on for days and FINALLY the day arrived that the UPS man showed up with a BOX that said THIRTY-ONE on it. Oh, they screamed, they jumped, they yelled. I had to tell them to BE QUIET until the UPS man leaves. Oh the anticipation of it all and then they arrive. Oh, they love their bags and I love mine too (in fact just ordered me some MORE purses/skirts for my purse) BUT those THINGS don't make us happy.

So we went on with the devotional I was giving them and we got to thinking about what really matters. We started reflecting BACK on our past blessings. I started sharing with the girls in a "Remember when..." type conversation:

Remember when...mommy was SICK in bed for ELEVEN LONG days. I had to go to the ER a couple times. I wanted to DIE at one point...honestly. I had the flu, pnemonia (spelling probably off there---my weakness), had a touch of the stomach bug as well...if it was going around I HAD IT! It was terrible. My poor husband (who was self-employed at the time) had to take off work for a week to care for me. SO being self-employed if you're not working you're not bringing in the green stuff :-) The next week a precious widow from our church came and stayed during the day so my husband would go to work. I stayed locked up in the bedroom. During that time, people from our church brought meals, goodie baskets for the girls, magazines,...you name it we got it. I felt so OVER blessed. You ever felt like that? One night...we had 3-4 meals brought to our house. Yes...most of the time people would call and say "Is anyone bringing anything for dinner today?" and we would know. Well, this particular evening, it was like every 30 minutes someone showed up. So we so graciously took it (ended up freezing some and had to call friends--who we felt could use a blessing to come get some of the food) It was AMAZING. Then it doesn't end there. The first day I was able to be up...now...when I say BE UP..I was able to sit in a chair and that was it. I had NO strength at all. Someone called and said they were coming over to bring us some groceries. You talk about a BLESSING...husband self employed (lawn service at that and this was in March so it really hadn't picked up a lot at that point so things were tight); I had been so sick I couldn't function as a wife/mom. I will NEVER forget that time in my life. We saw God work in ways that just seemed impossible.

So at that point...we are all in tears as I'm reflecting back with our girls about HOW GOOD GOD is and HOW HE cares for us and HOW HE PROVIDES...

then I went on and told them the story of when we had NO monies to go home Christmas but KNOWING our parents wanted us home. (of coarse you NEVER let on to mom and dad you are broke. When we say BROKE...we are BROKE...unlike other people who say BROKE...that's just a time they have to dip into their 401K and they don't make a dent in it lol) So we went to church on the Wed night for the girls Christmas program. When we got home, I was going through my church bag and I saw this envelope. I hadn't noticed it in there. I had no clue where it came from. I opened it and as I opened the card....guess what fell out? MONEY!!!!!!!!! Yes, enough to get us home.

You know, ladies, it does us good to just stop and reflect back on our past blessings. I am SO thankful for the MANY blessings God continues to send our way. We are so undeserving but HE STILL BRINGS US MORE AND MORE BLESSINGS!

So have you spent time lately reflecting back on your past blessings? It will send you an extra blessing when you do just remember how GOD always provides and how HE always meets our needs.

My Cup Runneth Over With Joy

2011-02-02T13:59:00.004-05:00

Our youngest daughter, who is in K-4, has been learning a new song in class (well, on DVD -- as we homeschool)

When my cup runneth over with joy
When my cup runneth over with joy
I find it easy to pray
And to sing all the day
When my cup runneth over with joy

BUT...WHEN....my cup is all empty and dry
When my cup is all empty and dry
I find it easy to pout
And to stomp all about
When my cup is all empty and dry

This morning though...she (our four year old) was singing it like this

When my cup runneth over with coffee
When my cup runneth over with coffee...and on she went.

I got a good laugh out of that because she does LOVE coffee. Yes, I know...she is FOUR years old and coffee will stunt her growth (sorry I don't believe that) If coffee did stunt our growth ladies...we'd just drink coffee instead of dieting right? or I would anyways! I guess frapp's would work the same as coffee...or atleast for my benefit I will say they would. :-)

Ps. 23:5b "...my cup runneth over"

How can WE keep our CUP running over with JOY?

1. Love One Another

John 15:11-12 "These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment That ye love one another, as I have loved you." KJV

Ladies, some people are just HARD to love BUT if we want our cup to overflow with JOY...then we MUST show them CHRIST love even if we have to work at it. The ones hardest to love...are the ones that need love the MOST!

2. Song In Our Heart

Ps 66:1 "Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands"

What's your favorite song? I can't pinpoint ONE particular song that I could say is a favorite. BUT I do have songs that come to me when I need them most. Why? Because I FILL my mind with good, GODLY music. I remember the 'worlds' music being some pretty depressing stuff when I use to listen to it. I encourage you to get some good GODLY music so that when hard times come, or you feel alone, afraid, don't know what's going to happen around the bend...you'll have filled your mind throughout other days with GOOD, GODLY music so they'll come to your mind when you need them.

Make sure your CUP runneth over with GOOD, GODLY music.

3. Pray For Others

James 5:16b "...pray one for another..."

WOW! If you want a cup that runneth over with JOY...get yourself off of me, myself and I...and PRAY FOR OTHERS! Ladies, and I am sure some of you are carrying some pretty heavy burdens right now, but a lot of times we get so caught up in our problems that we just empty our cup of JOY and fill it will grumbling, complaining, ungratefulness, jealousy, envy and MORE that will EMPTY our cup of JOY!

I say all the time, on Wednesday nights at our church when prayer request are given (or any service for that matter), I just can't help but sit there in my seat and thank GOD for HIS goodness to me. GOD IS SO GOOD and when we think we have it SO bad...think of someone to pray for. That will certainly allow your cup to begin to fill up with JOY when you think about how GOD has blessed you.

4. Read Our Bibles DAILY

Prov. 30:5a "Every word of God is pure..."

I am not a NEWS person. My husband loves FOX news. I really just don't like the news because it's all a bunch of lies to me. You can't watch the news and KNOW that it's 100% PURE! BUT you can read GOD'S WORD and KNOW that every word is PURE. What He has promised HE WILL DO! WOW...what a way to have your cup running over with JOY! Fill your life with GOD's WORD!!!!

So how's your cup? Is it empty and dry? Are you finding yourself pouting and stomping all about? or is your CUP RUNNING over with JOY and you find it easy to pray (and to give PRAISE if I might add that) and to SING all the day? If your cup IS empty and dry, the Lord can certainly change that. If you've never accepted Christ as your Saviour, then there is NO better way to start having your CUP running over with JOY. Christ will bring a JOY no one else can bring. Trust HIM today!

My Plate Is Cracking

2011-01-10T07:57:00.007-05:00

What did I find myself saying over and over again this past year? "MY PLATE IS CRACKING" and some days I felt like it had reached the point that it just shattered all over the floor in the smallest of pieces. I was discouraged because I just felt I couldn't get EVERYTHING accomplished in one day that I felt needed to be accomplished (hope you got that little word 'I' -- that I thought needed to be accomplished)

While reading through a study book entitled "Facing Life's Problems" by Martha Tyler, I read this quote:

We need to recognize when we have too much to do. WE must learn to give up doing good things in order to do the best things. Sometimes we strive to do more than God intended for us to do. Learning to prioritize will go a long way in fending off discouragement.

Ladies, I don't know about you but it seemed I really lived the life of DISCOURAGEMENT alot last year. Why? Because I was a MARTHA when I really needed to be a MARY. I guess as a wife, mother, homeschooler, SS teacher, playing piano, practicing songs with the girls, me trying to teach myself to read notes and learn to use less of my ear and site read more music, Scentsy consultant, and the list goes on....my favorite lesson in the Bible is the lesson on Mary and Martha. I think EVERY wife and mother can relate.

Last year, I just couldn't 'conquer the world' as I set out to do each day. So what was my new years resolution for 2011? Well, I actually had a cute little saying I put together that says "SORRY! I no longer own a SUPERWOMAN t-shirt" Yeap, I felt like I was trying to be SUPERWOMAN MANY MANY days last year...and at the end of each of those days I felt discouraged because I hadn't 'conquered the world'. And YET...I wasn't like Mary "...and Mary hath chosen that good part" Luke 10:42. No, I was Martha "But Martha was cumbered about much serving..." Luke 10:40.

I can honestly say this year...even though I know we are only on DAY TEN...this year seems to be one of the best NEW YEARS I've ever experienced. WHY? Because I am determined, with the Lord's help, to keep my focus and my PRIORITIES where they need to be. I am not here to please everyone. If we live our life trying to please everyone, we will be discouraged. We will want to give up. We will say "MY PLATE HAS SHATTERED" BUT if we give up doing good things in order to do the BEST things...I honestly believe we'll have more of the joy of the Lord as we should as Christians.

Where will my priorities be in 2011?

1. To My Lord

Last year I was busy doing MANY things, but I certainly wasn't busy reading my Bible, really taking time to STUDY and MEDITATE on God's Word. Many, MANY days I would tell the girls "Okay, we got up later than usual so just go ahead and start school. We'll do Bible later." Did later ever come...NO! We got TOO BUSY doing good things but we didn't do the BEST things.

THIS YEAR...we do Bible and I always have a thought to share with them BEFORE school starts. WOW! Guess what? 2011 isn't starting out too bad. Putting GOD first in our day really does make a difference.

I have to share this little story. Our girls, though they may seem like perfect angels to some :-), are just normal sisters. They fight. They want what the other one is wearing and it is getting more interesting now that we have a teenage. WOW! I thought parenting was hard but teenage years---watch out! We have one pair of shoes the 2 older girls will fight over daily. Just silly stuff. So this past Monday I did a devotional on how SISTERS CAN BE FRIENDS. (Actually, momma had had enough so this was their FINAL warning) Yesterday, Sunday, our four year old was wanting to lay with one of her sisters while watching a movie. Of coarse, the older sister didn't want her laying next to her so she got a little hateful. Our four year old responded by saying "I can be your friend" Where did she get that? She got it when I thought she wasn't listening. Kids take in more than we think and they also take note of our priorities. So I am determined THIS YEAR and from here on out...GOD WILL BE FIRST!

I love spending quality devotional time with our girls before school. They all come into the living room with their Bible, their notebook, their pen and take notes while I'm talking. So encouraging to a mom!

2. To My Husband

Now, my husband is a VERY picky person. I think he gets pickier as he gets older. I use to be one that would get up and get the vacuum out (when we had carpet---so glad those days are over--no more carpet for me) and put the lines in the carpet. Everything had to be 'perfect'. But then I realized...dust will always fall, dirt will always show up from somewhere, dishes will always pile up, laundry will keep growing...and in the midst of all of that something else is happening---THE GIRLS ARE GROWING UP TOO! I can spend everyday, 24/7, cleaning and there will still be messes to clean, dirt to clean up, laundry to catch up (mainly ironing for me--I dispise ironing) but there has to be a balance.

So during the day while school is going on, toys are out everywhere, the dining room table looks like a craft bazaar, papers are here there and yonder...it's OKAY! Why? Because we LIVE here. BUT then there comes a time we have to sing the song "Clean up, Clean up, everybody do their share." (I am NOT a fan of Barney but like the cute little song) When my husband comes home from work after working around ladies that complain and gripe (I tell him I am glad they do cause when he comes home, he'll appreciate me more, right? :-), then I want to make sure he has a HAVEN OF REST he can come too. Thirty minutes before daddy arrives...it's clean up time. When he walks through that door, I don't want him tripping over everything. No, I honestly try to have everything in it's place, soft music playing, dinner on (I like the 'trick' also of having the table set so he thinks dinner is about to be served even if it's a 30 minute wait...time goes faster when the table is set lol).

We can be so BUSY doing GOOD things, that we forget to do the BEST things and a lot of times the ones we LOVE the most or should LOVE the most are neglected. So THIS YEAR and from here on out, I desire to please my husband in ALL areas. Yes, I've had to give up some of the good things in order to do the BEST things but when you and I do...our home will be filled with peace, joy, love, happiness instead of frustration and discouragement.

3. To Our Children

WOW...how time flies. Just the other day, I mean like yesterday, we were living in Germany. I went and walked around the same crazy circle of the hospital to try to get myself into full labor so I could have our first precious baby. (the wonderful Army kept calling wanting my husband back in Hungary--they let him come home for the birth and once he got home they kept calling wanting to know if I'd had the baby and for me to hurry up. Okay Commander, you tell me how to tell a baby to hurry up. Just gotta love the military! :-) ) Then the moment arrived when I looked at my mom with tears streaming down my face and said "I am never having another baby" and she so calmly said "It's okay. You don't have to." (well, for the record I had 3 more after that one so you do forget the pain as they always say---Glad God made us that way or we'd stop at the first one, right ladies?)

Well, now that little bundle of joy is THIRTEEN! What? Am I really old enough to have a THIRTEEN year old? Am I ready for these teenage years? And to be reminded that in FIVE years I'll be going to college? and she already has an idea where she wants to go to college? WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Please STOP THE CLOCK!

No, there is no stopping the clock BUT I have decided to STOP a few things and learn to say "NO" (the hardest thing for me to do) in order to put my priorities where they need to be in this phase of my life. Our girls will one day grow up, be out of the house, have a family of their own (if it be the Lord's Will). I am sure there will come a day when I'll get to serve more in ministries, make myself available to more things OUTSIDE the home but for right now my priority is INSIDE my home. I've had to learn to give up doing GOOD things (nothing wrong with what I wanted to do or was doing) but it took time away from the BEST things.

So I am looking forward to keeping my focus where it needs to be and I honestly believe I'll end less and less days feeling discouraged, feeling like I didn't 'conquer the world' with the many task that loads our plate of life -- some good things but they take away from doing the BEST things! I desire to keep the BEST THINGS first---time alone with my Saviour who will give me a renewed strength each day; time to focus on my marriage; time to focus on the needs of our children -- not only physically, emotionally but spiritually. And then when all that is accomplished...then all the other GOOD THINGS can fall into place BUT I want my focus to be on the BEST THINGS for 2011 and then on.

Give the Gift of SCENTSY this Christmas

2010-10-15T14:08:00.001-04:00

Have you checked out my Scentsy website? Once you try it, you'll be hooked. Want to give something this Christmas that is DIFFERENT and something they're sure to enjoy...Give Scentsy. If you have family that live away from you, go directly to my site, order online and have the items shipped directly to them. Shipping rates are VERY cheap through Scentsy. Have any questions...feel free to ask :-)

www.mbarger.scentsy.us

Holiday Warmers Available Sept 15th From SCENTSY

2010-09-02T21:11:00.004-04:00

These are the Holiday warmers available Sept 15th. These are available while supplies last...not sure how big their 'supply' is but do know I have ladies BEGGING for me to let them know because last year they were sold out when they decided to order.

My Customer/Hostess Appreciation Special

For those that have purchased from me before, I am giving a 15% discount on all holiday products pictured on these flyers.

For those that have hosted a show for me, I am giving a 20% discount on all holiday products pictured on these flyers.

Orders MUST be submitted NO LATER THAN Sept 12th 9 p.m. I'd like for payments to be made by Sept 15th BUT I do understand people have different pay schedules so I am more than willing to work with you as long as you let me know when I can expect payment...no problem.

So start CHRISTMAS shopping without all the hustle and bustle and give something this year that's unique...GIVE SCENTSY!!!!!!!!!!

Pricing BEFORE discount is given:

$30 Large warmers
Gingerbread
Nativity
Snowman
Red Snowflake
Christmas Trees
Halloween

The four you see pictured in the middle of second photo are plugins...pumpkin...the end one in white is the snowman one that matches the snowman warmer. VERY POPULAR!

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at barger6687@roadrunner.com

New Scentsy Products Available Sept 1st

2010-08-02T14:52:00.003-04:00

The Fall/Winter Scentsy collection is AWESOME! Here's a sneek peak at a few products. I'm taking pre-orders this month to be able to send in an order Sept 1st. These make great Christmas gifts...so start shopping early without all the hustle and bustle! Scentsy will be a unique gift everyone will sure to enjoy---men and women alike!

More pictures coming soon! Gingerbread and Nativity Scene one available beginning Sept 15th. I'll post pictures soon!

Pan Fried Onion Dip

2010-07-15T13:18:00.002-04:00

You'll want to do a double batch of this one :-) It's DELICIOUS! Lots better than the store bought!

2 LARGE YELLOW ONIONS

4 TABLESPOONS UNSALTED BUTTER

1/4 CUP VEGETABLE OIL

1/4 TEASPOON KOSHER SALT

1/4 TEASPOON GROUND CAYENNE PEPPER

1/2 TEASPOON PEPPER

4 OUNCES CREAM CHEESE, AT ROOM TEMP

1/2 CUP SOUR CREAM

1/2 CUP MAYO

CUT THE ONIONS IN HALF AND THEN SLICE THEM INTO 1/8 INCH THICK HALF ROUNDS.
(YOU WILL HAVE ABOUT 3 CUPS OF ONION)

HEAT THE BUTTER AND OIL IN A LARGE SAUTE PAN OVER MEDIUM HEAT.

ADD ONIONS, CAYENNE, SALT, AND PEPPER

SAUTE FOR 10 MINUTES. REDUCE THE HEAT TO MEDIUM-LOW AND COOK, STIRRING
OCCASIONALLY,
FOR 20 MINUTES UNTIL THE ONIONS ARE BROWNED AND CARAMELIZED.

ALLOW ONIONS TO COOL.

PLACE THE CREAM CHEESE, SOUR CREAM AND MAYO IN A BOWL. MIX UNTIL SMOOTH.

ADD ONIONS AND MIX WELL.

TASTE TO SEASONINGS. SERVE AT ROOM TEMPERATURE

Daddy Will Fix It!

2010-07-15T13:00:00.002-04:00

Today as I was in the kitchen preparing lunch, our littliest girl came in to show me her bottle for her doll was broken. Somehow the inside had slipped out and so it didn't have that 'juice' look to it anymore. I was thinking, "Well, just throw that part in the trash." That wasn't her thinking...she quickly responded with CONFIDENCE "Daddy will fix it!!!"

Yes, our girls think A LOT of their daddy and they have EVERY reason too. He is a wonderful husband and father to our children. Ladies, we have a Heavenly Father who we can go to with CONFIDENCE knowing HE will take care of whatever may be broken in our life...our marriage, our home, our wayward children, our unsaved loved ones, our financial burdens, our health issues, our emotional problems, our job situation....we can go BOLDLY to HIM knowing He is in control and He will take care of any and all situations! Hebrews 4:16 says "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

Ladies, do you feel like you need to bring something that is 'broken' to the Lord today? Then do so...and go with CONFIDENCE knowing HE will take care of any and all situations and problems. I'm so glad I serve a GOD who cares. A God who hears and answers my prayers no matter how small or big they may be in my eyes....HE CARES! Just like that baby bottle this is broken...she is so CONFIDENT her daddy can fix it and OUR GOD can fix anything and everything too! Whatever you may be burdened with or whatever may be broken...give it to our Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ!

LOOK!!! We Are Missing A Blessing!

2010-07-12T14:34:00.002-04:00

Psalm 118:24 "This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."

Today the girls had closed my curtains on our sliding glass door so the house was dark and gloomy. I HAD to open those curtains. As soon as I opened them---guess what was happening outside? A NICE MUCH NEEDED rain shower.

Ladies, sometimes we keep our 'curtains' closed and decide we're going to live in our own little world. During that time, we miss out on some much needed blessings. I can say that because I KNOW! I have days (well, sometimes weeks) where I just want to stay in my house, not do anything, not talk to anyone, no motivation, no desires---and it's during that doom and gloom time I miss out on some much needed blessings. Not only blessings FOR me, but the blessing I may need to be TO someone else.

Sometimes we just need to step out of our shoes and wear someone else's whose less fortunate than we are or someone who is facing far more difficult circumstances than we are---and there is someone whose ALWAYS hurting MORE than we are.

Today as I was on FB, my attention was brought to a little girl named Addison. I have NO CLUE who this little girl is but she is in the hospital. When I saw her picture, my face flooded with tears. WHY? Because I have a little girl, not as little as little Addison, but our little girl struggles with Crohn's disease. I can sort of relate to what her parents must be going through but not really. See, our little girl is home, practicing for her piano lessons tonight, doing scientific experiments, helping her mommy with the house...she's not in the hospital. I'm not there next to her bedside wondering if she'll make it or what the next day may hold. Why did I share that? Because we are just TOO blessed to be depressed.

No matter how hard you think you have it, or how alone you may feel...there is someone who is ALWAYS facing far more difficult circumstances than you are. That isn't to say what you're going through isn't hard, isn't tearing your heart apart, isn't bringing tears to your eyes...but sometimes we just need to open the 'curtains' and look at the many blessings we have passing by and how many people are missing a blessing from us because we have our 'curtains' closed.

So no matter what you may be facing...open the 'curtains' and see what awaits you outside. It just may be a much needed shower of blessing or there may be someone waiting for YOU to shower them with a blessing.

Psalm 68:19 "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah"

Just Some Simple Thoughts

2010-06-10T10:46:00.004-04:00

I wish I had...!!! Can you imagine driving around in THAT vehicle? Can you imagine having a BIG house like they do? Can you imagine being able to go to the mall 20 times a week with unlimited funds and paying CASH? Can you imagine...?

What do you IMAGINE? IMAGINATION isn't necessarily a wrong thing. My girls imagine they are mothers, or nurses...but when our imaginations consume us...then there is a problem.

I'd like to share 3 simple thoughts I found that really are something we all could be reminded about:

1. Accept what YOU have

Instead of always looking around for something different to have...spend some time looking at what you DO HAVE. Yes, I am more than anxious to get our house sold and get our new house built BUT I'm thankful for the home we have now. If I always live in the 'future' of just imagining what it will be like to have SPACE...then I'll miss the joys God has instore for me right where I'm living now. Be content! That's a big one for us in America where we can pretty much get whatever we want whether it means being so far in debt we feel like we're drowning...we can have it and let others THINK we have it 'all'!

2. Enjoy what YOU have

I like this little saying "The poor man wishes for more while the rich man wishes he could enjoy even a part of what he has"

It amazes me when I drive by these big gigantic homes that you need cell phones just to see where someone is in the house. I can't imagine. My mind can't comprehend that BUT how often do those people get to sit down, relax, just enjoy being at home. Most of the time they are out working just so people can keep driving by and saying "WOW"!!! If they are home, they are so stressed and stretched financially that they are miserable and wondering how they'll be able to keep that big house. Be content with what you have and ENJOY it. I am still doing little things to the home we are in even though it's for sale. This is my home and I want to keep it my home as long as it's ours. I want to enjoy it!

3. Enjoy what YOU have TODAY

Life passes by like a shadow and we don't know what tomorrow holds. Make the most of today's opportunities and blessings. Be grateful. Be content. Don't always live in the 'imaginary' world but look at what YOU have and thank the Lord for HIS MANY BLESSINGS! I think we rob ourselves of contentment, joy, peace when we are always living in the world of "I wish..." I can only imagine..." NO, take the time to accept what you have, enjoy what you have, and enjoy what you have TODAY!

Updated June 1, 2010 Scentsy In-Stock CASH & CARRY Items Available

2010-05-31T09:06:00.007-04:00

Updated June 9th 2010

New inventory:

Groovy black
Cream large warmer
leather tin
sweet pea vanilla
plus more bar scents

Items sold from previous inventory:

2 groovy brown plugin
seashell plugin
large rustic star warmer

Updated June 1st, 2010 These are items I have in addition to those listed below:

Large warmer: $30 + tax

doodlebud (this warmer is so cute and would make a great baby girl shower gift, along with the pretty in pink scent)
Rustic star - popular one SOLD

Plug-Ins: $15 + tax

Groovy white
Lei
Dandy Lime
Groovy Brown (popular one) SOLD

Scents: $5 + tax

3 - sweet pea vanilla
1- pretty in pink
1 - mayflower
4 -home sweet home (VERY popular scent right now)
1 - beach
1 - satin sheets (love this in bathrooms)
1 - thunderstorm
2 - mochadoodle (I can hardly keep this instock)
2- baked apple pie
2 - coconut lemongrass (still my favorite)
1 - pineapple paradise
1- hemingway
1 - sugar cookie
1- blueberry cheesecake
1 - sweet clementine

Travel Tins: $5 + tax (these are great in vehicles; would make a great little gift for Father's Day)

1 - beach
1 - leather
1 - cucumber lime
1 - sweet pea vanilla
1 - lucky in love

Are you in need of a unique gift to give for a birthday, bridal shower, wedding, anniversary, baby shower or a 'just because' gift? I have several Scentsy items in stock. I will update this list as I get more stock in. Of coarse, these items are available to those within my area.

AND...if you'd like to earn some Free Scentsy products as well as 1/2 price items then book your own basket or home show TODAY! Ladies (and men) absolutely love this product. I've never seen a product sell so easily. (the little scents you see above is what you'd do a basket show with)

Prices are listed and then add tax. There is no s/h charge.

Sprays $8.00
These sprays are great to use in bathrooms, great to 'refresh' car hangers, or to have handy if guest show up and you want to quickly freshen up your home. * represents my favorites
2 - coconut lemongrass*
1 - havana cabana
1 - cranberry mango*
1 - sunkissed citrus
1- tranquil waters
1 - satin sheets*
1 - sweet pea vanilla*
1 - tropical twist
1 - home sweet home*
1 - clarity

Bars $5.00
These go into the plug-ins and med/large warmers.
2 - sugar
2 - camu camu
1 - orange dreamsicle
1 - coconut lemongrass
1 - beach (very popular one right now)
1- satin sheets
1- vanilla walnut
1 - green tea smoothie
1 - plumeria
1- red candy apple
1 - cucumber lime
1- clarity
2- sugar cookie
2 - white tea cactus
1 - lush gardenia
2- clean breeze
1 - toasted caramel sugar
1- baked apple pie
1 - cinnamon bear
1- mulberrybush
1- vanilla cream
1 - cinnamon cidar
3- pumpkin roll
2 - cutie pie cupcake
1- sunkissed citrus
1 - berry blush
1 - pretty in pink (great in little girls room/nursery)
3 - autumn sunset
2 - cranberry mango
1 - honey pear cidar
6 - tranquil waters
1 - cran spice
1 - mediterranian spa
1 - flirtatious
2 - rustic lodge
1 - french kiss
1 - pima cotton
1 - thunderstorm

Plug Ins $15.00
These fit into any outlet as the plug adjust and turns to fit various outlets. These are great in bathrooms or small living areas.

2 - groovy brown (very popular)
1 - sand dollar
1 - groovy rust
1 - weave buttercup
1 - weave green
1 - weave scarlet
2- grotto (popular)
1 - waves
1 - dandy tangerine
1 - dandy cherry
1 - dandy lime
1 - dandy turquiose (popular)

2 Travel Tins $5.00

These are great to put in vehicles. In fact I highly recommend these over the car hangers. They come in a select scents.

1 - camu camu
1 - skinny dippin'

Large warmers $30

symphony
cyprus

You may view the products at www.mbarger.scentsy.us

Lesson From an Almost 4-year old

2010-05-30T14:24:00.004-04:00

For some reason, our little one who is almost 4 has come up with a brilliant idea in order for us to respond to her during the hours most are enjoying a quiet, peaceful nights rest. For a while, she would loudly request more milk, or a poptart during the middle of the night...I say middle...normally it's anywhere from 1 a.m. till about 4 a.m. Here lately it's pretty much 4 a.m. Now, being the mom I sort of am in 'ignore mode' because I HAVE TO HAVE MY SLEEP. Daddy on the other hand...has a heart as soft as a teddy bear so he normally gives in to her plea ;-)

I must be honest, when she would scream or holler out "I need my tippy cup" "I need this..." I would ignore her. BUT she's caught on to a little trick that just eats her daddy's heart up...she QUIETLY and SWEETLY whispers in our ears "I want a poptart" "I want some milk" I know there is some mother out there saying, "No child needs such things during the night BUT she is our 'baby'." So if you know beyond a shadow of a doubt you are done having children, you'll hopefully understand where I'm coming from :-)

The thought came to me as I've REALLY been trying to practice lowering my voice, not yelling, only speaking in a normal tone under ANY circumstance that Proverbs 15:1 really does solve a lot of issues! Proverbs 15:1 says "A soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievous words stir up anger."

Since she's started making her request made known in a soft, sweet voice, I'm more reluctant to make sure she gets her 'tippy cup'...still haven't gotten the 's' sound to work yet :-) I have found that to be true with my older girls, they may be bickering back and forth...but if I will set the example of using a soft tone of voice, they'll soon realize they need to do the same. Here lately I've found myself just breaking out in prayer when issues arise. That REALLY gets them to be quiet because I make it VERY personal. Such as "Lord, I pray you'll help ---- to keep the right attitude, to learn to get along with her sisters. To know that life isn't forever on this side of Heaven."

Isn't it amazing how just a little change...such as lowering our tone of voice or replying with a soft answer will make a situation have a totally different result in the end. Though I still fail at this from time to time, I pray the Lord will continually remind me that my response and my tone of voice will determine the outcome.

Great Mother's Day Gift Idea

2010-04-27T08:00:00.005-04:00

Check out the many warmers we have at Scentsy at www.melissabarger.scentsy.us It's so simple to order. You just click "BUY" at the top or if you'd like, you may purchase from one of my open parties. The host will receive no personal information of yours (such as credit card info etc) so it's perfectly safe.

If you're like me, I find myself getting my mom the same thing every year...gift card, monies, flowers etc...but this year I went with something totally different and something she can enjoy for years to come. I got her a Scentsy plug-in with my favorite scent of coarse, coconut lemongrass.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. You may contact me by clicking on my personal Scentsy site and 'contact me'.

The awesome thing is the products will ship directly to YOUR home (or you can have them shipped to your mother's home) and shipping is only 10% of product cost. So you spend $15.00-- it's $1.50 to ship. Can't beat that.

Have fun shopping over at my Scentsy site and have a SCENTsational day! Click to visit my personal Scentsy site

So Exciting! I'm A Scentsy Consultant

2010-03-24T07:47:00.002-04:00

I am so excited about my new adventure and wanted to share it with you. I am now a Scentsy Consultant. If you aren't familiar with Scentsy, you can go directly to my personal website here. If after looking through our catalog online you'd like to place an order, go to the home page and click on my name, under shows open and purchase your products. Your order will come directly to your home and the shipping is only 10% of your purchase order. It's that simple. Once you try Scentsy, you'll be hooked. I have absolutely grown to love their products so much so I am now a consultant. Thanks for sharing in my new adventure. Hope you'll check Scentsy out.

New Potato Soup Recipe

2010-02-05T07:03:00.003-05:00

This is a different recipe than what my mom makes. To me this is a 'lighter' potato soup. It was delicious and SO easy to make.

8 cups potatoes, diced
3 cans chicken broth (small cans)
1 can cream of chicken soup (large can)
1/4 t pepper
1/3 c onion, diced
1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 (8 oz) pkg cream cheese

Mix potatoes, chicken broth, chicken soup, pepper and onion in a crock pot. Cook 8-10 hours on low. (I turned mine on high for probably 1-2 hours to get it hot and then turned it to low) Add cream cheese in the last 30 min. of cooking. Garnish with bacon when served.

Thought This Was So Good

2010-01-12T13:39:00.003-05:00

There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind. She hated everyone,
except her loving boyfriend. He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, ‘If I could only see the world, I will marry you.’
One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was
able to see everything, including her boyfriend.
He asked her, ‘Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?’ The girl looked at
her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her.
She hadn’t expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him.
Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: ‘Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine.’

He Loves Me...

2010-01-11T18:45:00.002-05:00

So that is on the new design I have on my blog but when I saw this one I immediately thought ... "Yes, He does love me!" My heavenly Father LOVES ME!!!!! I am so thankful for that and would you like to know something? HE LOVES YOU TOO!

First Aid For The Soul

2010-01-11T18:36:00.001-05:00

Worried - I Peter 5:7
Weak - 2 Corinthians 12:9
Wisdom - Proverbs 9:10
Temptation - I Corinthians 10:13
Fear - Joshua 1:9
Fear of Failure - Philippians 4:13
Friends - Philippians 2:2-4
Loneliness - Hebrews 13:5b
Salvation - Ephesians 2:8-9
Rejection - Isaiah 53:3
Guilt - I John 1:7
Loneliness - John 14:18

Christmas 2009

2010-01-07T17:52:00.007-05:00

Practicing to be a Princess

Okay, so I braved a gingerbread house with 6 kids...

Who said I'd never have a boy? JUST KIDDING...this is my little nephew. He's a cutie and he loved pulling my hair as he went to sleep. I didn't mind :-)

And the favorite entertainment? THE WII!!!!!!!!!!

My dad with one of our daughters and my nephew!

My sister-in-law with our youngest daughter

my brother :-)

I'm glad they are cousins---guess kissing cousins now

My mom

My hubby and I! Just love him so VERY much! He's the greatest!
The Lord blessed us with a wonderful, safe trip home to our families. We had an enjoyable time and the time away was much needed. It's nice to just take a break from the routine of life and unwind. Here are a few pictures from our 2009 Christmas!

"Flee From The Flurries" Young at Heart Christmas Fellowship

2009-12-05T21:54:00.006-05:00

We had a wonderful time tonight at our Young at Heart Christmas Fellowship "Flee From The Flurries" (Giving Our Worries Over to The Lord). Our number was down - probably due to the weather - but we still had a good turn out and a wonderful time together. The food is just DELICIOUS! The skit turned out to be great, special music was a blessing and the devotional was just what we needed to hear on Worry. We are to Fret Not, Faint Not, and Fear Not! Everyone received a little favor about loosing their marbles. I'll try to post it later. It was cute! If you missed this one, you missed a real blessing! Hope you can join us in February for our Valentine's Luncheon, February 7th after morning worship service!

One Pretty Little Princess

2009-12-05T21:52:00.003-05:00

She loves her little princess outfit and her new Dora umbrella. She is so sweet and growing up way too fast!

My Black Friday

2009-11-27T15:19:00.003-05:00

Well, my Black Friday was spent making the most of my GREEN (monies) at the Goodwill. I just LOVE the Goodwill. Today I found 3 brand new dress/casual shirts (still in the pkg) for my hubby) and 3 other shirts for him that I think had just been put on hangers out of the pkg. VERY NICE and look brand new. One was marked with a tag $30 from the store. Then I got me a really nice skirt; a Liz C sweater; the girls a nice sweater; a shirt for the girls; a Dora blanket - looks BRAND NEW - for one of girls for Christmas (they'll never know) got a shirt for one of the girls with their favorite football team on it; a my little pony toy for our 'baby' girl; all for under $50. I just love it. I was so thrilled! God is SO good. My hubby will be so excited I found those shirts for him...or atleast I hope :-)

So thankful for ALL the Lord has blessed us with...health, strength to face each day, salvation, our wonderful, precious little girls, my 'one of a kind' hubby,...GOD IS SO GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Another Date Night With Daddy

2009-11-26T20:01:00.002-05:00

And This Is What Some Do With Christmas Decorations

2009-11-20T17:01:00.003-05:00

Only our littliest one would think of this one...I had to snap a picture! Thought it was pretty creative -- Christmas Tree Hat...who would've thought?

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

2009-11-20T16:30:00.005-05:00

This is our 'big' tree in our living room!

This is our bedroom tree.
I absolutely LOVE Christmas. I know, I know, I know....we haven't even celebrated Thanksgiving BUT I am looking forward to Christmas. Christmas is a time we normally go 'home' to our families and enjoy Christmas together. My mom is just fantastic...she is already taking cookie orders from everyone so she can begin baking all sorts of goodies. Like we need them...but trust me...they'll be no leftovers on the dessert table. My order --- chocolate covered cherry cookies! My absolute favorite at Christmas time. In fact, last year, my parents specially wrapped me a box of cookies just for me. :-)

So anyways...here is what Christmas looks like at our house. Nothing fancy, nothing spectacular...but it's CHRISTMAS! I am so thankful to be a Christian and to be able to celebrate the REAL meaning of Christmas! What a wonderful time to share that story with others. Grab you some tracts and share the REAL Christmas story so others may be able to experience the joy we have during this time of year...and should have all throughout the year!!!!!!!!!!

A Little Chorus I Just Can't Get Off My Mind

2009-11-19T15:34:00.001-05:00

I am blessed
I am blessed
Every day that I live I am blessed
When I wake up in the morning
Till I lay my head to rest
I am blessed
I am blessed!

What a wonderful chorus to have year long, but especially as we get close to Thanksgiving.

True Education

2009-11-11T10:29:00.001-05:00

If I learn my ABCs, can read 600 words per minute, and can write with perfect penmanship, but
have not been shown how to communicate with the Designer of all languages . . . I have not been
educated.
If I can deliver an eloquent speech and persuade you with my stunning logic, but have not been
instructed in God’s wisdom . . . I have not been educated.
If I have read Shakespeare and John Locke and can discuss their writings with keen insight, but
have not read the greatest of all books—the Bible—and have no knowledge of its personal
importance . . . I have not been educated.
If I have memorized addition facts, multiplication tables, and chemical formulas, but have never
been disciplined to hide God’s Word in my heart . . . I have not been educated.
If I can explain the law of gravity and Einstein’s theory of relativity, but have never been
instructed in the unchangeable laws of the One who orders our universe . . . I have not been
educated.
If I can classify animals by their family, genus, and species, and can write a lengthy scientific
paper that wins an award, but have not been introduced to the Maker’s purpose for all
creation . . . I have not been educated.
If I can recite the Gettysburg address and the Preamble to the Constitution, but have not been
informed of the hand of God in the history of our country . . . I have not been educated.
If I can play the piano, the violin, six other instruments, and can write music that moves men to
tears, but have not been taught to listen to the Director of the universe and worship Him . . . I
have not been educated.
If I can run cross-country races, star in basketball, and do 100 push-ups without stopping, but
have never been shown how to bend m spirit to do God’s will . . . I have not been educated.
If I can identify a Picasso, describe the style of da Vinci, and even paint a portrait that earns an
A+, but have not learned that all harmony and beauty comes from a relationship with God . . . I
have not been educated.
If I graduate with a perfect 4.0 and am accepted at the best university with a full scholarship, but
have not been guided into a career of God’s choosing for me . . . I have not been educated.
If I become a good citizen, voting at each election and fighting for what is moral and right, but
have not been told of the sinfulness of man and his hopelessness without Christ . . . I have not
been educated.
However, if one day I see the world as God sees it, and come to know Him, whom to know is life
eternal, and glorify God by fulfilling His purpose for me . . . I HAVE BEEN EDUCATED.

Love This Quote From Kay Chandler

2009-11-10T11:36:00.001-05:00

..."Live your life in such a way that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, satan shudders and says OH NO, SHE'S AWAKE!"

My Thoughts and Prayers Go Out To Fort Hood

2009-11-06T12:25:00.003-05:00

What a tragedy yesterday at Fort Hood. It seemed like a nightmare while I was watching the news updates. We need to pray for these families involved and for ALL our men and women serving in the military! These are some very tough times for them.

Some Precious Memories Being Made

2009-10-27T18:03:00.001-04:00

I am so thankful God has blessed my husband and I with four precious little ladies! They are such a blessing!!!

Yet I Will Praise Him

2009-10-24T08:18:00.004-04:00

Psalms 42:11 "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God."

Do you ever feel discouraged? Do you ever feel like God has forgotten you? Do you ever feel like God is far from you? Ladies, during those times, we must say "...for I shall yet praise Him."

We must remember that God is ALWAYS near. Isaiah 41:10 says, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Hebrews 13:5b "...I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."

Do you ever feel drowned by the circumstances that are taking place? I love this verse in Psalm 42:7-8 "Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts; all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me. Yet the Lord will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life." Ladies, when we get to feeling drowned by our circumstances, keep in mind that they are HIS waves and billows. There's a little saying that goes "We can either go through them, or we can GROW through them."

As we look around, there are so many people carrying some pretty heavy burdens:

- loss of jobs BUT if that be the case we should still be able to say "Yet I will praise Him"

- loss of health BUT if that be the case we should still be able to say "Yet I will praise Him"

- loss of a loved one BUT if that be the case we should still be able to say "Yet I will praise Him"

- loss of a spouse through seperation/divorcement BUT if that be the case we should still be able to say "Yet I will praise Him"

- loss of (what have you lost?) BUT we should still be able to say "Yet I will praise Him"

For some reason that little thought just has been with me here lately....no matter what....YET I WILL PRAISE HIM!!!!!!

No matter what may be going on we can still and should PRAISE HIM! He is so worthy of our praise! So if you're discouraged--like I sometimes am! If you feel like God has forgotten you---like I sometimes feel! ... say to yourself as in Psalms 42:11 "...YET I WILL PRAISE HIM!" AND remember, GOD is with us every step of the way. He is our UNFAILING refuge in all the storms of life. Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

The Unseen Guest

2009-10-24T07:59:00.002-04:00

Our youngest daughter has been having some interesting 'conversations' with some unseen guest--her make believe friends! She is so cute and SO serious when she's in the middle of one of those conversations...UNTIL she realizes we are watching her.

The other day we were all sitting at the table eating, and she jumps up (like she's on a mission) and stands behind her chair. Her little hands were just a moving while she's talking with 'someone'! We all sat trying to act as though we were enjoying our food, yet trying our best to keep back the chuckles of laughter . Then the moment happens....she realizes she's got our attention. She'll hide her face and her unseen guest seem to disappear and her facial expression turns to embarrassment.

When my grandfather died last fall, as the family was sorting through their belongings, my mom grabbed a plague for me that no one else seemed to want. It reads:

Christ is the head of this house, the unseen GUEST at every meal, the silent listener to every conversation!

I have that plaque hanging in our dining room. Ladies, each day we have an unseen Guest in our homes -- the Lord Jesus Christ. I wonder how many of us (including myself) would hang our head and be filled with embarrassment if the unseen Guest did show up at our home? Now, I know He is with us, but we just can't see Him. Would we act different if we could visibly see Him? Though our 3 year old frequently has visits with an unseen guest...we have an unseen Guest who is with us 24/7! That's a good thing and can be a bad thing too if we aren't doing what HE would have us to do and say.

Many times we find comfort in knowing that He is with us even though we cannot see Him. He gives us a peace in our hearts that shows us HE IS NEAR! Then on the other hand, during those times we aren't what we should be, He will allow our hearts to become heavy and burdened with the sin we've allowed to come into our lives. That's when I am so thankful for I John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

As we go along throughout each day, let's not forget the unseen Guest that's with us all along the way! And when we have those times where He convicts our hearts of our wrong doings, take the time to ask HIM to forgive us and we may even have to ask someone in our home to forgive us as well. Many times I've had to just sit the girls down and say, "You know mommy has NO excuse for how I just acted. I was wrong. Will you please forgive mommy? Will you pray for mommy that I'll handle situations as God would have me to?" I believe that does 2 things: it shows our children that parents do make mistakes and teaches them that there are times when we need to go to others to ask their forgiveness and not just to the Lord.

So don't forget the unseen Guest that is with us each day and in everything we do and say, may it be pleasing to Him---the Lord Jesus Christ!

Young at Heart Breakfast

2009-10-14T08:22:00.002-04:00

We had a good time at our Young at Heart Breakfast. Talk about some good food....we had biscuits, a LARGE variety of HOMEMADE preserves, gravies, large fruit trays, donuts, delicious casseroles....I think this breakfast thing will be a repeat. They really outdid themselves on the meal. Then we had one of our YAH men give a devotional. What a challenge! He even wrote a poem specifically to go along with our theme "Early Will I Seek Thee". We played a game where they had to pick their favorite barn-yard animal, but not a rooster. Then they had to write down 5 numbers between 1- 25. Each time their number was called, they had to make the sound of their animal. When all 5 numbers were called they had wrote down, then they yelled out 'COCK-A-DOODLE-DO'. It was really funny to watch them do this. I had a small portion on video so I'll try to download it. We had a great time. Looking forward to taking them to Cody Creek to eat and then our Christmas Fellowship theme is "Flee From The Flurries" (Giving Our Worries Over To The Lord). We have some fun things planned for that as well!!!!

Pictures Piano Recital

2009-10-10T16:31:00.002-04:00

These girls had their serious moment during the recital...so had to do some funny poses! They ALL did a wonderful job and are blessed with the GREAT piano teacher!

Piano Recital Songs2

2009-10-10T15:01:00.003-04:00

Piano Recital

2009-10-10T14:49:00.002-04:00

Young at Heart Funny

2009-10-04T16:02:00.003-04:00

Since we are involved in the Young at Heart ministry...thought the men would enjoy this :-)

In case the print it too small to read it says: My wife said "Wathca doin' today?" I said, "Nothing!" She said, "You did that yesterday". I said "I wasn't finished"

Without God

2009-10-02T18:21:00.001-04:00

Without GOD, our week would be:

Sinday
Mournday
Tearsday
Wasteday
Thirstday
Fightday
and Shatterday

Remember seven days without God makes one WEAK!!!

Thought This Was Cute

2009-09-27T15:03:00.001-04:00

My friend's husband is always telling her that housekeeping would be a snap if only she would organize her time better. Recently he had a chance to put his theory into practice while his wife was away.
When I popped in one evening to see how he was managing, he crowed, "I made a cake, frosted it, washed the kitchen windows, cleaned all the cupboards, scrubbed the kitchen floor, walls and ceiling and even had a bath."
I was about to concede that perhaps he was a better manager than his wife, when he added sheepishly, "When I was making the chocolate frosting, I forgot to turn off the mixer before taking the beaters out of the bowl, so I had to do all the rest."

Pumkin Bread

2009-09-26T14:12:00.002-04:00

2 c sugar
2 c pumpkin
1 1/2 c oil
5 eggs
2 small pkg of instant french vanilla pudding
3 c flour
2 t baking soda
1 t cinnamon
1 t salt

Mix together ingredients and bake at 350 fo 1 hour. Makes 4 small loaf pans.

My Mom's Potato Soup

2009-09-26T14:06:00.002-04:00

6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can creamy chicken mushroom soup (I use a large can)
1 purple onion chopped
3 stalks of celery chopped (I don't put this in as I don't care for celery)
1 sm can of mushrooms
1 small can of fiesta nacho cheese soup (found in soup area)
marg, salt, pepper to taste
3/4 c milk (may have to add a little more depending on texture)

Cook potatoes in water just covering them with 1/4 stick of butter. Saute onion, celery, mushrooms in butter. Once potatoes are done, drain the broth until it is right below the top of the potatoes. Add the chicken soup; cheese soup; the sauteed mixture; salt and pepper to taste; milk. Lower heat so the soup will simmer but stir often as it will tend to stick.

Enjoy!!!!!!!

Be Sure and Keep...In Your Area Of Ministry

2009-09-24T07:51:00.005-04:00

I must be honest and say, here lately my husband and I have really had our times of struggle with 'hanging in there' in the area of ministry. When you do and do, and others just seem to find something to complain about it gets discouraging BUT for some reason as I sat on the sofa the other day, I began to ponder some thoughts. They were thoughts of what I should KEEP....in the area of ministry we are serving in. Don't get me wrong, we get positive responses and encouragement but do you find it's so easy to concentrate on the 'negatives' you receive more so than the positives? I do so let's look at what we should be sure and KEEP....in our area of ministry.

1. Keep Focused

WOW! Initially when I was jotting some thoughts down, I put this one last. Then I began to think about, 'Well, if we do all the other 'keeps' and then do this one last---we're not going to accomplish much FOR THE LORD! (and that's who we should be serving in our area of ministry for anyways, right? -- we forget that too huh?) In order for us to keep our focus, that is what we must remind ourselves -- we are doing it FOR THE LORD!

2. Keep Fresh

I don't know about you but I like change. I like to change my living room furniture around so often my husband has to double check to make sure he's getting ready to sit where there is something to sit on :-) Any ladies like that out there? I like to try new foods or things I haven't had in awhile. The other day I bought some lunch meat -- can't spell it but it's like braunsworth or something -- anyways I always say "Give me 1 pound of Virginia Baked ham and 1 lb of salami!" So I bought this 'braunsworth' or how ever you spell it. Well, I remember my mom and dad eating that when I was a kid so I thought, "Hey, this will be different." I got to the counter and the lady was like "What does this taste like? bologna?" I thought "No, cause I am not much on bologna." I shared how I had it as a child and just wanted to try it again. I liked it...ate it on double sided town house crackers with little purple onion slivers. DELICIOUS and DIFFERENT! It was something fresh, new, something out of the ordinary! That is what we need to strive to do in our area of ministry...KEEP IT FRESH! I shared a new idea for doing door prizes with my husband last night for our YAH meeting coming up and he liked it. We always struggle with getting people to sign up. The same 15-20 people sign up and we have 50-70 show up. Hard to plan when you never know how many is coming! So I told him that I was going to give a door prize to the first person to sign up on the sign-up sheet and maybe that will initiate others to rush to get sign-ed up :-) We'll see how that goes.

The internet is FILLED with ideas and themes. One of my favorite sites is www.creativeladiesministry.com. Then I just do searches. Our theme for December is "Flee From The Flurries---Giving Our Worries Over To The Lord". I know just from my neighbor lady, she has a tendency to worry more during the gloomy winter months so we want to encourage our YAH's to give their worries over to the Lord. I found a theme we are doing for next April "When It Pours...He Reigns". I am going to decorate with umbrellas and pansies and make it BRIGHT for spring. In the future we plan to do a singspiration type fellowship where we ask groups from our church to sing specials and the theme will be "Singing I Go Along Life's Road". I want it to be really 'fancy' - red roses, black and white decor, lace...anyways that's where I'm leaning right now. The ideas are endless and if I even think I may use something, I write it down. Have you ever found that one idea sparks another idea? So keep things FRESH and exciting! Make the ones you minister to eager to know what is coming up.

3. Keep FUN

We always have a "Merry Moment" is what we call them. A time to just lighten up and get a laugh out. Laughter burns calories, haven't you heard that? I find it easier to laugh than to walk like we've been trying to do. (Think I'll laugh all day today...well, maybe not...then the girls will wonder what's going on with mom) Skits are HARD to find but they are out there. Search for funny stories or jokes that go along with your area of ministry. We have the Young at Hearts (age 55 and up) and so I search for something funny that relates to our theme. In a couple weeks we are doing an Early Will I Seek Thee breakfast (idea from Creative Ladies Ministry) but I have a game that is REALLY funny and I'm sure they'll be laughing. Can't share it in case someone is reading that will attend but I'll share pictures etc after the fellowship. I found a little story about a man telling his wife how to fry eggs and relating that to him driving and her giving him 'instructions' on how to drive. REALLY CUTE! So just something to keep it FUN! Of coarse, we have a serious time of devotional but there is nothing wrong with having FUN as Christians!

3. Keep Family Oriented

Now, some ministries you may be limited on what your entire family can do but I am sure there is something. One of the things I always mention about our family being involved with the Young at Hearts ministry (even though we are NOT even close to being 55) is that we can all have a part. My husband oversees the meeting, talks, gets the speakers etc but I gather ideas, decorate etc. We have four precious girls and they love to serve. Their area is taking care of the drinks and of coarse helping set up and clean up. They love to ask them as the YAH's arrive what they'd like to drink and take it to them. Our oldest will play the piano while they are coming in or after the fellowship as they're leaving. Get the family involved. There's something each family member can do...even if they are little like ours did right when we started doing this ministry...she ran up on stage before I even knew it and wanted her daddy. Of coarse some gave us this "What are you thinking look?" but most got a grin/laugh out of it and it was near the end so it was okay.

So what area of ministry are you serving in? Do you ever struggle with keeping your focus UP instead of AROUND you? If you are always focused on what's AROUND you, you're sure to get down and discouraged (I've been there) BUT when I look UP...then I remember who I am ultimately serving, our Lord Jesus Christ. Do you keep things FRESH and exciting? Do the ones you minister to anxiously anticipate what is next or is it the same ol' same ol' every time? Try reversing the meeting. One of these times we are going to eat last and do everything in reverse order....I know senior saints like things the same but sometimes different is good. Do you allow your family to take part in some way? What about as a family praying for your ministry? We daily don't do this, but we do pray for our YAH ministry as a family. We have a responsibility to minister to this group of people and we must pray and ask the Lord to help us.

Hope this helps in some way...if for nothing else...I NEEDED IT!!! Keep up the good work and remember ultimately we are serving the Lord through the ministry we do!

Contact President Obama and TAKE A STAND

2009-09-23T15:47:00.002-04:00

Check this out: http://islamoncapitolhill.com/

Contact President Obama here

We MUST take a stand as Christians.

"Fall" ing Right Back Into Blogging

2009-09-23T14:48:00.002-04:00

Well, I must confess I've become a Facebook fan. I was really hesitant at first but have grown to love it and to realize it can really consume T-I-M-E! It's neat to get in touch with old friends, family, and even read the daily happenings of those near by. I do miss blogging and so my desire is to 'fall' back into blogging SOON. Fall is approaching and it's my favorite season of the year so I'm sure I'll have plenty to blog about. Hope you'll keep stopping by Simple Reflections! Have a great week!

Game Time WIth Daddy :-)

2009-09-23T08:45:00.002-04:00

Special time with daddy playing a game :-) He's the greatest daddy!

Thought This Was Nice----To Love Their Husbands

2009-09-13T14:22:00.002-04:00

To Love Their Husbands...

Take time to listen
Offend not in words or actions

Love at all times
Offer to help with financial planning
Value your time together
Enjoy laughs together

Thank him for being the mate God gave you
Help him through the tough and good times
Encourage him
Invest energy in meeting his needs
Respect his quiet time

Hug him often
Uplift in daily prayer
Share your thoughts with him
Baby him when he is sick
Admire him
Never take him for granted
Dress for him
Speak kindly to and about him

Great reminders as a wife!

More Pictures

2009-08-29T10:25:00.003-04:00

Our Youngest Daughters 3rd Birthday

2009-08-29T09:45:00.002-04:00

God Is SO GOOD

2009-08-29T09:43:00.001-04:00

Our oldest daughter with crohn's had an appt this past Tuesday. The dr. is really impressed with her progress but still wants her to do the treatments every 8 weeks. She'll have two more treatments then see the dr. in Dec. Pray they'll be able to come up with something to substitute the treatments once the disease goes into remission. The dr. said they are doing extensive studies and we'd really like to get her off the remicade treatments. God is so good. We are just thrilled with how well she is doing so THANK YOU for praying for her and continue to pray she'll do well!

Something To Do TODAY Before It's Too Late

2009-07-31T10:08:00.001-04:00

Hop on over QUICKLY and get in on the book giveaway at Calvary Girls blog...here's the link...
http://calvarygirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/book-giveaway-christian-murder-mystery.html#comment-form

"Can't Complain"

2009-07-21T08:32:00.002-04:00

The other night as I sat in church and my husband walked past one of our precious Young at Heart ladies, she asked him, "How are you doing?" and his reply was "Can't complain!" That is the normal response my husband will give when someone ask him how he's doing..."Can't complain" and you know what...my husband hardly EVER complains! He is such an easy going, laid back, go with the flow, it will all work out...type of person. (I'm the opposite...guess that's why opposites attract) I began to think, "That is what my response needs to be...CAN'T COMPLAIN" because as christian ladies the majority of the time we REALLY have no reason to complain about what we are complaining about. We are a truly blessed people and need to fill our complaints instead with Praise to our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Our Home - A Testimony

2009-07-21T08:25:00.001-04:00

Well, we finally had our first home showing this past Saturday. After speaking to the realtor though, the living room isn't big enough for their amount of furniture but that's okay. It's a start. As my husband was speaking with the realtor (one other than the one we listed the house under) on the phone, he mentioned how he really enjoyed seeing all the scripture and wording on the walls. I have several little sayings from Uppercase Living on the walls, then plaques and different things with verses or spiritual sayings on them and in our girls room I've painted verses on the wall---before I knew about Uppercase Living :-) As my husband was telling me what he said, it made me stop and ponder the thought "Our home can be a testimony to others even if they don't end up buying it". Even though you may not have your house on the 'market' to sell so to speak, our home can and I believe should be a testimony to what we believe and WHO we believe in. How many scriptural sayings do you have or scriptural thoughts? You never know what may spark a conversation if you allow your home to be filled with spiritual thoughts and scriptural verses.

Time Just Having FUN

2009-07-03T09:26:00.003-04:00

I must admit I haven't kept up my blog here lately like I normally do...BUT I've been spending FUN time with the girls and hubby!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Here's pictures of our evening spent at a local park!

Who Says You Can't Enjoy Ice Cream?

2009-07-03T09:22:00.000-04:00

Great Article on "Structure In The Home"

2009-06-19T16:02:00.001-04:00

http://www.nvbc.org/nvn/Ladies_Structure_in_Home.html

Old Grandma Shoes

2009-06-19T15:59:00.001-04:00

When I was very little
All the Grandmas that I knew
Were wearing the same kind
Of ugly grandma shoes…

You know the kind I mean..
Clunky heeled, black, lace-up kind,
They just looked so very awful
That it weighed upon my mind,

For I knew, when I grew old,
I’d have to wear those shoes,
I’d think of that, from time to time
It seemed like such bad news.

I never was a rebel,
I wore saddle shoes to school,
And next came ballerinas
Then the sandals, pretty cool.

And then came spikes with pointed toes
Then platforms, very tall,
As each new fashion came along
I wore them, one and all.

But always, in the distance,
Looming in my future, there,
Was that awful pair of ugly shoes,
The kind that Grandmas wear.

I eventually got married
And then I became a Mom
Our kids grew up and left,
And when their children came along,

I knew I was a Grandma
And the time was drawing near
When those clunky, black, old lace up shoes
Was what I’d have to wear.

How would I do my gardening
Or take my morning hike?
I couldn’t even think about
How I would ride my bike!

But fashions kept evolving
And one day I realized
That the shape of things to come
Was changing, right before my eyes.

And now, when I go shopping
What I see, fills me with glee
For, in my Reeboks
I’m as comfy as can be.

And I look at all these little girls
And there, upon their feet
Are clunky, black, old Grandma shoes,
And I really think that’s neat.

Rocky Road Bars

2009-06-18T08:18:00.002-04:00

Rocky Road Bars
Recipe Source: Betty Crocker

Cookie Base
1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker® double chocolate chunk cookie mix
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons water
1 egg
Filling
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 tablespoons Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 egg
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (6 oz)
1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
Frosting
1/2 cup butter or margarine
1/4 cup unsweetened baking cocoa
1/3 cup milk
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup chopped pecans

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Spray bottom and sides of 13x9-inch pan with cooking spray.
2. In large bowl, stir cookie base ingredients until soft dough forms. Press dough in bottom of pan. Set aside.
3. In large bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup butter, the flour, 1 teaspoon vanilla and the egg with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup pecans. Spread over cookie dough base. Sprinkle with chocolate chips.
4. Bake 26 to 28 minutes or until filling is set. Sprinkle evenly with marshmallows. Bake 2 minutes longer.
5. In 2-quart saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in cocoa and milk. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. With wire whisk, gradually stir in powdered sugar until well blended. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 cup pecans. Immediately pour over marshmallows, spreading gently to cover. Cool 30 minutes.
6. Refrigerate about 2 hours or until chilled. For bars, cut into 6 rows by 4 rows. Store covered in refrigerator.

These Sound Yummy -- I Gotta Try Them!

2009-06-18T08:15:00.001-04:00

Caramel Apple Bars Adapted from allrecipes

Ingredients
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
2 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup chopped apple
1 cup finely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch pan. Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together melted butter, brown sugar, and 1 cup of white sugar with a wooden spoon until smooth. Stir in the eggs and vanilla. Blend in the flour mixture until just combined, then stir in the apples and walnuts.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. In a cup or small bowl, stir together the remaining cinnamon and sugar; sprinkle over the top of the bars.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes in preheated oven; finished bars should spring back when lightly touched. Cool in the pan, and cut into squares.
5. After these cooled I drizzled them with melted Kraft Caramel Bits! Enjoy!

Too Cute Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches

2009-06-18T08:12:00.002-04:00

These would be cute for a baby shower or birthday celebration :-) Thought they were really cute!

New Brownie :-)

2009-06-17T10:20:00.002-04:00

Ladies, if you've been reading my blog for any length of time you know that I am addicted to chocolate. Last night i made (sorry but my caps isn't working) dark chocolate brownies. After baking them, I immediately dropped little spoonfuls of chocolate chip cookie dough I had left over into the hot brownies then I put white icing on top of it...talking about delicious but Rich!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They were REALLY good though. Just had to share it with you!

Entertaining With Photo Albums---Reflecting On The Past

2009-06-14T19:23:00.004-04:00

Entertaining with PHOTO ALBUMS? Oh yes you can! When we went home Christmas, our girls just loved (and my hubby and I did as well)to look at the photo albums my mom had been working on. She just has them next to the fireplace and it's so relaxing just sitting and REMEMBERING the past. SO...that is what I am beginning to work on. Organizing and trying to do a little at a time of getting pictures into albums instead of here, there and yonder. The girls just enjoy looking through them so much and they are a great conversation starter...instead of the Wii or other games going all the time. SO...get motivated this week and get those photos out and begin putting your photo albums together-----------Remember it's PUTTING OUR HOUSE IN ORDER TIME!

Home AGAIN Home AGAIN...

2009-06-14T19:07:00.001-04:00

WELL...here I sit out of church with our littliest one...WHAT IS NEXT? I think she has an ear infection...for which she is prone to having. Last time I had her at the dr for her reflux issues...she mentioned tubes in the ear. I really don't want to go that route but looks as if I'll be at the drs. office AGAIN tomorrow...think I'll just give them my checkbook! :-)

Flyladies Eleven Commandments

2009-06-14T19:05:00.001-04:00

Thought this would go well with our "Putting Your House In Order Series" I am STILL working on...it's been one of those weeks!

Keep your sink clean and shiny.

Get dressed every morning, even if you don’t feel like it. Don’t forget your lace-up shoes.

Do your morning and before bedtime routine everyday.

Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked by the computer.

Pick up after yourself. If you get it out, put it away.

Don’t try to do two projects at once. ONE JOB AT A TIME.

Don’t pull out more than you can put back in one hour.

Do something for yourself everyday, maybe every morning and night.

Work as fast as you can to get the job done. This will give you more time to play later.

Smile even when you don’t feel like it. It is contagious. Make your mind up to be happy and you will be.

Don’t forget to laugh everyday. Pamper yourself, you deserve it.

I Love KIRKLANDS Home Decor Store

2009-06-12T13:46:00.002-04:00

Well, I've found my store that I need to stay WAY FAR AWAY from....Kirklands! I've already told my hubby that he can just start getting me gift cards to Kirklands for every occasion and I'll be able to redecorate our new home with mostly Kirkland items. You just gotta love it...and the prices aren't that bad either! I about picked up a couple things while in Gatlinburg at Kirklands but the issue of storage came up while we are building so I am just patiently (well, not really patient most days) waiting for that new house to come along...when this one sells.

Just thought I'd share that since I am working on a 'home' devotional.

Great Little Devotional Book For Children

2009-06-11T13:19:00.004-04:00

This is one of my favorite books for devotional time with our girls. The devotionals are short and Scripturally based on KJV. Our girls have really enjoyed it and there are SEVERAL in this book. Thought I'd share this with you ladies as I know it's hard to find good devotional books for kids that they will enjoy.

Check These Cookies Out - Gotta Love Chocolate

2009-06-11T10:24:00.001-04:00

1 3/4 cups DOVE® Brand Milk Chocolate, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup flour
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup chopped SNICKERS® Bars

1. Melt chocolate in a bowl on top of a double boiler or in the microwave for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Add the sugar, butter, eggs and almond extract. Stir in the flour, baking powder and SNICKERS® Bars, blend.
2. Drop heaping tablespoons of batter on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes.
3. Cool on the cookie sheet.

Jury SERVICE Is Over...

2009-06-10T10:58:00.002-04:00

Well, my jury SERVICE is over. I had to go on Monday from like 9 a.m. til 1:30 p.m. Then I was back yesterday at 2 p.m. and released at 3 p.m. I never got selected to actually sit on a case so that was a relief. One of the most disturbing things for me was seeing people not willing to place their hand on the Bible when we were sworn in as jurors. My heart just broke...and of course they had the choice to opt out if they didn't want to place their hand on the Bible.

I am just so glad it's over!!!!

Pound Cake Recipe

2009-06-10T10:43:00.003-04:00

I just got done baking a new pound cake recipe I found. It turned out REALLY good. I think I'll add a little more vanilla next time...I love vanilla.

1 (8 ounce) pkg cream cheese
1 1/2 c butter - room temperature
3 cups white sugar
6 eggs
3 cups all purpose flour
2 t vanilla

Preheat oven to 325 grease and flour a 10 inch tube pan. In a large bowl, cream butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar gradually and beat until fluffy. Add eggs two at a time, beating well with each addition. Add the flour all at once and mix in. Add vanilla. Pour into a 10 inch tube pan. Bake at 325 for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Check for doneness at 1 hour. A toothpick inserted into center of cake will come out clean. ( I used a 8 x8 stone and a round deep dish dish stone and baked about 30-35 minutes)

Men and Women Compared ;-)

2009-06-10T10:33:00.002-04:00

Marriage

A woman married a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't. A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change and she does.

Success

A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman is one who can find such a man.

Arguments

A woman has the last word in any argument. Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.

Money

A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he wants. A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't want.

Eating Out

When the bill arrives, men will each throw in $20, even though it's only for $22.50. None of them will have anything smaller, and none will actually admit they want change back. When the girls get their bill, out come the pocket calculators.

A Great Thought To Ponder On

2009-06-09T09:17:00.001-04:00

The state of the nation is determined by the state of the HOME!!!

Cleaning Tools and Tricks

2009-06-09T09:12:00.002-04:00

I am still working on the theme "Putting Your House In Order" since that seems to be what my day consist of since putting it on the market. So to go along with that...I found these cleaning solutions...thought I'd share them!

1. White vinegar

To clean windows, fill a spray bottle with equal parts water and vinegar. Add a splash of lemon juice. Full-strength vinegar sanitizes wooden cutting boards. Pour 1 cup white vinegar and a sprinkle of baking soda into teh toilet bowl to clean.

2. Baking Soda

Use it to scrub sinks, tile, and tubs. Sprinkle it in the garbage can, disposal or sink drain and litter box to freshen.

3. Salt

Remove rust spots with a paste of salt and lemon juice. To clean tarnished brass or copper, use a paste of salt and vinegar.

4. Lemon

To remove odors, rub a half on a wooden cutting board or run peels and ice (to sharpen the blades) through the garbage disposal.

New Blog Design So Fitting For How I'm Feeling...Just A Bit OVERWHELMED

2009-06-08T17:04:00.005-04:00

This is one of those weeks I am feeling just a bit overwhelmed...serving on jury SERVICE (not duty as they told us today...but let me tell you I feel like it was duty); trying to get the last things done for our Young at Heart activity this Saturday; trying to keep the house 'perfect' in case of a showing---we were suppose to have one today. In fact I called my hubby to let him know I was heading home from jury SERVICE and he said we have a showing in like one hour. So I rushed home, I mean RUSHED home hoping all cops were on a donut break...a LONG one...jumped out of the van; rushed in the house; grabbed the broom and looked at the stove to see the oven was on. My husband had just got home from running errands and helping me get some of the YAH stuff done. He had come home and put a PIZZA in the oven with only 30 minutes till the people were to arrive. Let's just say I wasn't too happy...it was a BAD BAD wife moment for me. What person would start fixing lunch when you know you are showing the house...but anyways...so we had rushed and gotten everything all cleaned up and would you believe it? The phone rang and something came up and they cancelled. This is the second time this has happened. I told my hubby if it's the same people, next time we aren't booking no shows and we need to let them know ahead of time.

Back to my days...this summer I am trying to plan fun things with the girls each week to keep summer FUN; and just the daily routine of being a wife and mother...one word can sum it up for me --- EXHAUSTION!!!! I keep telling myself each week...if I can survive this week...next week will be easier but there is ALWAYS something. I keep telling my husband I just want to escape to the mountains and just RELAX...even though we just went on a vacation :-) Can't take too many vacations can you? Well, just thought I'd sum my thoughts up for the moments...now it's time to get the girls out of the pool; get that mess cleaned up; fix supper; baths; devotions; and at some point SLEEP!!!!!!!! Oh, forgot I have to call at 5:30 to see what time I am to report for jury SERVICE tomorrow!

The Five "Watches"

2009-06-07T17:47:00.001-04:00

Watch your thoughts--they become words.
Watch your words--they become actions.
Watch your actions--they become habits.
Watch your habits--they become character.
Watch your character--it becomes your destiny.

---Frank Outlaw

The Clay - Poem

2009-06-07T17:46:00.000-04:00

I took a piece of plastic clay,
And idly fashioned it one day,
And as my fingers pressed it still,
It moved and yielded to my will.

I came again when days were passed;
The bit of clay was hard at last,
The form I gave it still it bore,
But I could change that form no more.

I took a piece of living clay
And touched it gently day by day,
And molded with my power and art
A young child's soft and yielding heart.

I came again when years were gone;
It was a mind I looked upon;
That early impress still he wore,
And I could change that form no more.

Treasures - Poem

2009-06-07T17:45:00.000-04:00

Some folks I know, when friends drop in
To visit for awhile and chin,
Just lead them round the rooms and halls
And show them pictures on their wall,
And point to rugs and tapestries
The works of men across the seas;
Their loving cups they show with pride,
To eyes that soon are stretching wide
With wonder at the treasures rare
That have been bought and gathered there.

But when folks come to call on me,
I've no such things for them to see.
No picture on my walls is great;
I have no ancient family plate;
No tapestry of rare design
Or costly woven rugs are mine;
I have no loving cup to show,
Or strange and valued curio;
But if my treasures they would see,
I bid them softly follow me.

And then I lead them up the stairs
Through trains of cars and Teddy bears,
And to a little room we creep
Where both my youngsters lie asleep,
Close locked in one another's arms.
I let them gaze upon their charms,
I let them see the legs of brown
Curled up beneath a sleeping gown,
And whisper in my happiness:
"Behold the treasures I possess."

written by Edgar Guest

If...

2009-06-07T17:43:00.001-04:00

If I had my child
to raise all over again,
I'd build self-esteem first
and the house later.
I'd fingerpaint more
and point the finger less.
I would do less correcting
and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch,
and watch with my eyes.
I'd take more hikes
and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious--
and seriously play.
I would run through more fields
and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging
and less tugging.

--Diane Loomans

My Work

2009-06-07T17:40:00.000-04:00

I have the greatest work in the world;
The job of rocking a baby to sleep,
That of guiding his tottering feet,
A baby's clothes to launder and fold,
A precious life to shape and mold,
A drink to give from a little cup,
At night his toys to gather up,
Hurts to heal and fears to quell,
A baby to keep clean and well,
A stack of diapers to put,
Oh, what a happy worthwhile day!
I am a "Mother."

I have the greatest work in to world;
A husband to encourage when things go wrong,
When he comes from work to greet with a song,
Denims and shirts to wash and mend,
A helping hand, when needed, to lend,
Three times a day is meals to cook,
To strive to be my best to look,
His back to rub at the close of the day,
For his faithfulness to God I pray,
When hubby's in the field I take lemonade,
for all these tasks his love has Paid.
I am a " Wife."

I have the greatest work in the world;
A home to keep happy, clean and bright,
Make things go smooth and strive for the right,
Jams to cook and jellies to make,
Cookies and pies and bread to bake,
Washing, ironing, and sewing to do,
So many tasks, will I ever get though?
Lettuce to wash and peas to pick,
floors to scrub, lost items to seek,
Dishes to wash and windows to shine,
These and many more tasks are mine.
I am a "Homemaker."

Help me, Father, to faithfully work,
Forgive if I unconsciously shirk,
give me the patience and love I pray,
To keep myself in duties way;
With all the hustle that each day brings
May I not neglect the needing things;
Each day to spend time alone with Thee
That Jesus Christ be seen in me.
Thank you for husband, our home, our girls and boys;
Thank you for love which brings me much joy.
Thank you , Lord.

----Mary Lou Burkholder

The Home She Made...

2009-06-07T17:38:00.001-04:00

[W]hat a traditional woman did that made her home warm and alive was not dusting and laundry. Someone can be hired to do those things (to some extent, anyway). Her real secret was that she identified herself with her home. Of course, this did not always turn out well. A controlling woman might make her home suffocating. A perfectionist’s home might be chilly and forbidding. But it is more illuminating to think about what happened when things went right. Then her affection was in the soft sofa cushions, clean linens, and good meals; her memory in well-stocked storeroom cabinets and the pantry; her intelligence in the order and healthfulness of her home; her good humor in its light and air. She lived her life not only through her own body but through the house as an extension of her body; part of her relation to those she loved was embodied in the physical medium of the home she made.

-Cheryl Mendelson’s, Home Comforts (an encyclopedic A-Z resource on homemaking how-to’s)

Home Is....Poem

2009-06-07T17:36:00.001-04:00

Home is the one place in all this world where hearts are sure of each other. It is the place of confidence. It is the place where we tear off that mask of guarded and suspicious coldness which the world forces us to wear in self-defense, and where we pour out the unreserved communications of full and confiding hearts. It is the spot where expressions of tenderness gush out without any sensation of awkwardness and without any dread of ridicule.

~Frederick W. Robertson

The Happiest Home - Poem

2009-06-07T17:34:00.001-04:00

Where is the happiest home on earth?
'Tis not 'mid scenes of noisy mirth;
But where God's favor, sought aright,
Fills every breast with joy and light.

The richest home? It is not found
Where wealth and splendor most abound;
But wheresoe'er, in hall or cot,
Men lived contented with their lot.

The fairest home? It is not placed
In scenes with outward beauty graced;
But where kind words and smiles impart
A constant sunshine to the heart.

On such a home of peace and love
God showers his blessing from above;
And angels, watching o'er it, cry,
"Lo! This is like our home on high!"

Quick Thought

2009-06-04T11:38:00.001-04:00

If you want to be happy,
Begin where you are,
Don’t wait for some rapture
That’s future and far.
Begin to be joyous,
Begin to be glad
And you’ll soon forget
That you ever were sad

His Eye Is On The Sparrow

2009-06-04T11:31:00.004-04:00

It seems so many of my friends are just going through some pretty tough times right now. This song is one that comes to my mind often when I am facing some pretty trying times. Hope it will encourage someone TODAY and be a reminder that He - The Lord - is watching YOU! Nothing takes HIM by surprise!

Why should I feel discouraged,
why should the
shadows come,
Why should my heart be
lonely, and long for heaven
and home,
When Jesus is my portion?
My constant friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow,
and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow,
and I know He watches me.
I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free,
For His eye is on the
sparrow,
And I know He watches me.

A Place Of Grace - Poem

2009-06-04T11:24:00.002-04:00

Welcome to this place of grace,
We, the people who live here, love one another and love Jesus.
Our home is a haven,
a refuge of acceptance and forgiveness and love.
We believe that we are divinely appointed to be a family.
We will walk together through every valley.
We will rejoice together from every mountain
We will pursue godliness.
We will look for each others giftedness and encourage one another
toward significance
We will live pure lives.
We will pray.
We will worship.
We will seek God first in all things.
We believe it is better to laugh and cry together, than to accomplish
great feats all alone.
We are stronger because we are family.
To God be the glory for the great things he has done

Tidy Housekeeper?

2009-06-04T09:22:00.003-04:00

The bride was anything but a tidy housekeeper. It didn't bother her much until one evening when her husband called from the hall, somewhat dismayed: "Honey, what happened to the dust on the table? I had a phone number written on it."

I am working on a devotional about "Putting Our House In Order"...since that seems to be my LIFE while trying to sell our home. I thought that would be very fitting so hopefully in the coming days I'll be posting a few thoughts on "Putting Our House In Order" along with a few funnies to go along with that thought :-)

Hope each of you have a wonderful week!

Start Your Day Out Right

2009-06-04T09:15:00.002-04:00

"Pleasant mornings and good
starts depend on our attitude ."

Turn To Him - Poem

2009-06-04T08:56:00.000-04:00

by Tanya Staggs

If you’re looking for something that you can’t seem to find and negative thoughts keep running thru your mind,
just turn to Him.

If nothing seems to work for you, but you just keep on trying and you have a smile on your face when instead you feel like crying,
just turn to Him.

If the road you are taking seems like it’s all uphill and you’re running out of strength, but you keep on travelling still,
just turn to Him.

If it seems as if all’s against you and you have nowhere to turn and life’s lessons get you down because you never seem to learn,
just turn to Him.

If troubles keep on coming and there seems to be no end and you feel as if you’re all alone and haven’t got a friend,
just turn to Him.

If you feel your strength slipping and you seem to lose the fight, keep your eyes upon Him, He’ll turn your darkness into light,
just turn to Him.

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Not Sure I've Shared This...Guess that shows my upcoming age June 22nd

2009-06-02T07:25:00.003-04:00

I have started to cut my dryer sheets in 1/2 which makes them last twice as long...it works. There has been no static even with 1/2 a sheet in the dryer. Try it...it works and you'll be saving money along the way :-)

Quick Quotes and Thoughts To Being This Week With

2009-05-31T22:10:00.000-04:00

Helen Keller said “Keep your face in the sunshine, and you cannot see the shadow”

The unwise person seeks happiness in the future; the wise person grows it today.

Your world will look brighter from behind a smile.

God’s joy is contagious.

Be like a steam kettle! Though up to its neck in hot water, it continues to sing!

One Of Those Wonderful Potty Training Moments

2009-05-30T13:57:00.002-04:00

While I am sitting at the computer waiting for our little one to finish in the bathroom...as we are attempting potty training AGAIN...I hear what I think is an accomplishment so I am like "Way to Go"!!! I was all excited...UNTIL...I walked into the bathroom and there she stands next to the toilet with the toilet containing a good bit of toilet paper and still WET toilet paper in her hand. Her hands were wet as well...and so the 'sound' of accomplishment I heard was just her ringing water out of a good bit of toilet paper! So...instead of getting serious about potty training...she finds it more interesting to PLAY in the toilet. What is next?

It Pays To Use Couponbug.com

2009-05-30T11:02:00.003-04:00

If you haven't taken advantage of using www.couponbug.com I would start. I have been saving lots more when I get groceries...makes me feel good when I do that. Yesterday I saved almost $15.00 at Wal-mart...not counting how much I saved going to Lowe's using there coupons this week. I don't mind grocery shopping when I come out like that. :-) Just a quick thought...

Psalms 37 - Five Simple Reminders

2009-05-30T07:26:00.004-04:00

Do things just ever seem like they are not going the way WE want them to go? Of course with all the 'instants' of this day and age (instant popcorn, instant pudding, instant potatoes...), when it comes to our spiritual life we want 'instant' whatever, right?

This morning when I woke up, I grabbed one of my husband's study books and my Bible and was amazed at the simple little reminders in Psalms 37. It was just what I needed as I am so anxious to get our house sold, so anxious to accomplish other things as well. These are the simple reminders I found in this chapter in the book of Psalms.

1. Trust in the Lord (v 3)
Ladies, if we walk by sight and not by faith, we will find it easy to fret. I have really tried here lately (since my plate of life seems to be just overflowing) to just pray and give it over to the Lord when I begin to start fretting over things not moving as fast or going in the direction I want them to go. The Lord knows what we need, what we desire...TRUST IN HIM! And if He chooses not to bring it our way...REMEMBER---He KNOWS Best!

2. Delight thyself also in the Lord (v 4)
As we look around us - and if we really got honest, if we looked even within our four walls - so many times we try to delight ourselves or have our joy filled through material THINGS! We want MORE, and if we get that we'll be happier. We want BIGGER, then we'll be satisfied! We WANT...but what do we NEED to do? We need to DELIGHT OURSELVES IN THE LORD...that is where we will find our joy when we are doing HIS WILL! Let's choose today to make the Lord our delight!

3. Commit thy way unto the Lord (v 5)
We should allow the Lord to direct our steps, ladies! And if we do, we'll be trusting in Him and we will find pure delight in the Lord as well. Take every detail of life to HIM in prayer!

4. Rest in the Lord (v 7)
I don't know about you, but when I hear the word 'rest' I long to REST! I am in the parenting mode of lacking REST!! I still am not getting an uninterrupted night of rest with our 2 1/2 year old. Okay, some of it is my fault but one of these days she'll begin to sleep through the night...and hopefully soon! When we have complete faith in the Lord - knowing and believing all things work together for good; knowing God is in control at ALL TIMES even when life seems to come crashing in on us - THEN we can find REST in the Lord and THEN we can enjoy the peace of God which surpasses all understanding. (Phil 4:7)

5. Wait on the Lord (v 34)
Lastly, WAIT ON THE LORD! I thought it unique for the Lord to put this one last and actually it was a ways further into the chapter as the other 4 were close together...we had to WAIT til verse 34 to learn to "wait on the Lord"!

The hardest part for us is to WAIT! Yesterday, I went to get my license renewed with all four girls. I was going to wait til my hubby got off work so he could watch them, but I thought "He'd rather be home mowing instead of sitting in the licence branch for who knows how long." I dreaded the WAIT! It only took like a little over an hour but I still had to WAIT! How much easier it would've been on me to just walk in and get it done and be out. BUT NO...we must WAIT! I had a dr. appt yesterday for our youngest daughter...and we ALL know the WAIT at the dr. office--even if you have an appointment! As mothers, we know the WAIT we had to endure before we got to see our precious little one we'd carried for 9 + months. We must WAIT...and we must learn to WAIT on the Lord!

So today...let's be reminded to--

Trust in the Lord!
Delight thyself also in the Lord!
Commit thy way unto the LORD!
Rest in the Lord!

and

WAIT on the Lord!

Congrats HONEY!!!!

2009-05-27T12:08:00.003-04:00

I am so proud of my hubby. He has been working at the VA for a little over a year and got another promotion this past weekend! I am SO VERY proud of him and his hard work at helping our veterans! The other night while watching a program about Memorial Day and seeing a soldier just almost lifeless as he sat in his wheelchair...it made me more appreciate of what my husband does and puts a picture with those he is trying to help. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK---HONEY! No one could be prouder of you than I am!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"I Be'in a puppy"

2009-05-27T11:56:00.003-04:00

Our littliest has an issue with sticking out her tongue. Of course, we get on to her and tell her that isn't nice. Well, while grandma and papaw were here--of course the tongue came out--and so I got onto her once again. She looked at me and said, "I be'in a puppy"! Well, it was one of those moments I had to just break down and laugh. Is she being a puppy or is she making up an excuse for her not so good habit? It was a moment I won't forget :-)

What Thought Is She Pondering???

2009-05-27T11:49:00.003-04:00

Sometimes you just wonder what their little minds are thinking about...for this picture I think she was thinking "HOW MANY MORE PICTURES HAVE TO BE TAKEN?"

1st Home Showing YEAH!!!

2009-05-27T09:10:00.002-04:00

Well, we've had our house on the market for just a couple weeks and today we have our first home showing. Talk about work...we worked late last night trying to get everything in tip-top shape. We had just went and got two beautiful hanging plants and some flowers to plant (and some garden plants as well)! The yard is fresh; my hubby mopped the tile flooring and so this morning it's just finishing up and making everything fresh as can be to make a great impression. Hey, they may not buy but it's encouraging we've gotten someone interested. We've had a great response on listingbook as far as people saving as a favorite; agents looking; and interested buyers so in the Lord's timing it will sell...and hopefully soon!!!!! We've got our eye on some land to purchase but don't want to make a decision before selling this home. It's just exciting :-) We've definately outgrown this place, especially with homeschooling!

Back to cleaning....

The Aquarium

2009-05-26T14:13:00.003-04:00

We went through the aquarium twice. The first time we went through our youngest daughter was scared so I got stuck holding her for the most part. The second time we went through she loved it...for which I was glad. So here are some pictures:

A Special Memory

2009-05-26T14:05:00.003-04:00

I told my hubby that while we were over there I wanted to get our picture taken at the hotel we spent our honeymoon. I think it's changed somewhat but this was where we began our life together. It has been so great and EVEN GREATER since the day my husband and I both accepted Christ as our Saviour!

Just The Simple Things

2009-05-26T13:45:00.006-04:00

Since we hardly take a REAL vacation, we tried to make this extra special for the girls so we went out on the limb to do a few things...and we'll be paying for them for a little bit. Near the end of our vacation, we asked them what they enjoyed the most! Here was their response:

(our oldest daughter) I loved it when we went to play Putt Putt and we got to dip our toes in the creek running throughout the Putt Putt place!...that was pretty inexpensive!
a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_1QxxLutCmFY/Shwu2sKCLWI/AAAAAAAACHo/cJ7Ua0Hl4lg/s1600-h/vacation+070.jpg">

One of them mentioned seeing the WonderWorks building (I think that was the name)--- anyways the building that looks like a building upside down. The girls loved driving past it...that was FREE!

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They also enjoyed playing at this nice playground outside an outlet mall...FREE again!

They enjoyed picking wild flowers near an outlet we went to!

There was something else...drawing a blank...but it was FREE or inexpensive. Our biggest expenditure was the aquarium...for which they did enjoy while we were there but I was just amazed at how the simple things really stood out to them. I joked with my husband that the next time we go over...we'll not spend nearly as much if all they want to do is play in a playground outside an outlet mall (FREE), dip their toes in the creek water at the PUTT PUTT place (very inexpensive), keep driving by the Wonderworks upside down building...it really brought to mind that it's NOT all about SPENDING MONIES and purchasing the BIG ITEMS for children for them to enjoy themselves...it's just those simple things.

Today we went walking through the neighborhood a little and they found some wild daisies so they pulled them up--root and all--and came home and planted them in their designated flower bed. They had the time of their life out their getting dirty.

Remember the SIMPLE THINGS...

Proud Of Her Much Deserved Fudge - FREE FUDGE

2009-05-26T13:38:00.004-04:00

Our 2nd daughter has a very OUTGOING personality. Very bubbly, VERY energetic!!!! We went to this fudge shop and as we were watching the man prepare the fudge he was definately trying to get us involved by telling jokes; having us chant things while he made the fudge; and he kept mentioning our participation would determine our discount on fudge. So our daughter of course had a blast with all of this. She done whatever and gave it all she had when she said things back as he requested. It was one of those moments you sort of had the thought (as others were in there as well shopping) "That's not my child" Of course, I know her since I am MOM but others may have been like "This girl is crazy"! So anyways, her craziness paid off. He did give her a big deal (for which if we'd taken it we'd had fudge FOREVER) but right as we were getting ready to leave, he told her he had a special gift just for her. He cut off a nice slab of fudge he had just prepared, wrapped it up, and gave it to her. She was on cloud nine. He did tell her she had to share for which I was very glad of that cause had he said it was all her's she would've taken that to heart!

Lesson Learned...NEVER leave a child in the back of a vehicle unattended with fudge. She had dug into it with her fingers eating it while I was driving to the next place...which was our place to have a nice dinner! Momma wasn't too happy she had spoiled her dinner a little but HEY---- it was vacation time!!!!!