Thankful Thursday-Courage

Today's topic at Thankful Thursday is courage.

I looked up the word "courage" at Bible Gateway (one of my favorite resources). I noticed that 12 times the bible tells us to "be strong and courageous." 12 times! I've always heard that we should take note if the bible tells us something more than once.

The phrase "be strong and courageous" implies that this is something we must do. Merriam-Webster defines courage as "mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.

So, to take courage means to withstand fear, or as Joyce Meyer says, "Do it afraid."

What does courage have to do with thankfulness? In nearly all the references to courage that I found in the Word, it also promises that if we will be courageous, the Lord will go with us, He will give us victory. I'm thankful that even when I'm afraid, if I press on, He will be there to enable me. What more can we ask than that?

Would you like to share your thankful heart? Today's Thankful Thursday is hosted by Laurie at Women Taking A Stand.

WFMW-Kitchen Essentials-Appliances

Here's part three of my Kitchen Essentials series. This is a review of items I think are essential for everyone's kitchen.


When I was first married, every gift-giving occasion, my husband bought me a small appliance for the kitchen. He did this for two reasons: 1) He loves to eat so getting me something to cook with made sense to him! 2) It was easier to pick out an appliance than to pick out jewelry or clothes.


Appliances are very important and I do like them. However, do not buy me a mixer for Valentine's Day! I'm just sayin'.


Of course, there are the large appliances every kitchen needs: a stove, refrigerator (hopefully with an icemaker and adequate freezer), microwave and dishwaher.


However, I'm talking today about the smaller appliances. Here's my list (in no particular order):

• Electric skillet - I have used several of these over the years. I've learned it's best to get one that has a glass lid. I've actually had the paint peel off lids before. I really use my skillets! I love electric skillets because you can keep the temperature constant. What do I cook in my electric skillet? Bacon, sausage, pancakes, french toast, brown meats in it for the crockpot, fried rice, pork chops, chicken - I could go on and on. I also think it is the best thing to use to make milk gravy. Yes, I do use a whisk when making milk gravy and the inside of the skillet gets beat up. So I do have to replace them every couple years, but I feel to have lump-free gravy maintained at just the right temperature is worth it!
• Crock pot - I love my crock pot! There are many many recipes out there for a crock pot. Assemble your ingredients in the morning, plug it in and go about your day. The house will smell yummy when you get home and all you have to do is set the table, and maybe make a salad. What's not to love? I personally believe in having different sizes for different jobs. Right now, I have three: a six quart oval, a five quart round that turns itself off, and a 1 quart. The one quart is so cute! My friend has an oval crock pot that has a divider so that two things can cook at once -- I foresee one in my future.
• Presto Kitchen Kettle - Let's face it, even though we know fried foods are not good for you, there are times we just want some. And if you are going to deep-fry something, a Presto Kitchen Kettle is the best! I've tried fry daddy's over the years but I just love the Kettle the best. You can wash it in the dishwasher! I'm on my second one, now. You can read all about it here. You can also use it as a slow cooker.
• Bread machine - Here again, I am on my second one. I actually wore a hole in the bread pan by using it so much. The two main things I make in my bread machine are crust for pizza and dough for homemade rolls. A lot of the time, I use my machine at least twice a week. My bread machines both have been the BreadMan brand because I like the size of the pan and the timer feature.

Of course, I have a toaster, blender, electric knife and coffee pot but the four appliances that I have highlighted are used all the time and I would really miss them if they quit working. In fact, no question about it, I would go right out that week and replace them. They work for me!

If you visit Kristen at We are THAT Family, you'll find a plethora (don't you just love that word?) of tips to make life easier. I'm all about that!

What's On Your Mind '09 - Stones of Remembrance

What are your Stones of Remembrance? The idea is taken from Joshua 3-4 and simply explained in this post

Actually, the idea of Stones of Remembrance is not a new idea to me. This topic was introduced when I was participating in the "Experiencing God" bible study written by Henry Blackaby. We discussed the story of the children of Israel crossing the Jordan and God instructing them to build a memorial, one stone for each tribe, serving as a reminder for future generations of what God had done for their ancestors.

You see, God knows how we are, and how quickly we forget what He has done for us.

As a class, we talked about what we could do to leave stones of remembrance for our families. The general consensus seemed to be leaving journals and scrapbooks. A lot of us already do that to preserve family heritages. But what about spiritual heritage? What can we do to tell future generations about God's goodness?

One method is storytelling. In fact, that's biblical. We are to discuss scripture and God's ways over and over to our children.

Deuteronomy 6:7 "Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

That's storytelling. And what better way than to make it personal? Tell them the story of when you realized you were a sinner and needed to go to the altar.

When my dad was dying, he was concerned because he didn't want his grandchildren to forget him. I told him not to worry because I would tell them all about him. And I did. In fact, I did told them so much over the years, they began to roll their eyes when I mentioned something he did. I guess I did too good a job!

This works best when your children are little. What about if they are older?

If you are reading this blog, you probably have a blog of your own. Why not set up a category on your blog called "Stones of Remembrance." Write about all the spiritual experiences you have had, and those you can remember of your parents and grandparents. Or you could even have a separate blog for remembrances. Make it a closed blog and only invite relatives if your stories are too personal. At some point in life, your children will be curious about their family and then they can read all about how God has shown Himself strong on behalf of His children.

I understand there are companies that will even publish your blog in a book form, and then those that do not care to use computers can read your "stones," too.

Nancy Leigh DeMoss has written a great article on this subject and has several ideas for memorials. You might want to read some of her ideas here.

I really regret that I did not think about how important learning about family heritage and spiritual heritage is until most of my family had passed away. I want to make sure that doesn't happen for my grandchildren.

After all, what's more important than telling what God has done for me?

Visit Shane at Heart Reflections and see what others have to say on this topic.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - April 27, 2009

FOR TODAY, APRIL 27th EDITION ...

Outside my window...

sunshine, for now. The rest of the week is supposed to be rainy ...

I am thinking...

of all I want to accomplish this week.

I am thankful for...

for the fact that Jesus paid the price for my salvation. I don't have to keep a bunch of rules to earn my salvation. (I've been studying Galatians.)

From the kitchen...

Meatloaf, au gratin potatoes, peas, and for dessert, brownies. I have to try my new oven out!

I am wearing...

black pants, black & white geometric top, and silver and black necklace that my daughter bought me.

I am creating...

an organized home, decluttering one piece at a time ...

I am going...

to follow where He leads me ...

I am reading...

I get to pick out a new book today at the church library.

I am hoping...

to encourage someone this week!

I am hearing...

the hum of the ceiling fans.

Around the house...

a couple of hot spots need to be cleaned out: the magazine rack, my launch pad, and my desk. (Ok, that's three hot spots ... and all of them contain paper clutter!)

One of my favorite things...

going for a drive on a pretty day.

A few plans for the rest of the week:

Attacking those hot spots, and getting together some stuff for the church yard sale.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

We drove to the park Saturday and sat on a bench overlooking this lake. The breeze was blowing and it felt so peaceful ...

To read other daybooks, visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Friday's Fave Five- April 24, 2009

Another Friday has rolled around! It's time for Friday's Fave Five, a time to look back and pick five favorite things from your week.

Here's my five:

1. I love bargains! Last Saturday, I went with our ladies group from church on a shopping trip. We had a wonderful day of fellowship, food, and shopping. I'm really excited about the ceramic canister set I found - they look like Victorian style houses. I collect decorations that look like houses, and I had seen a similar set about 12 years ago for $50. I paid $5.50 for this set:

I was so excited!

2. This week was Administrative Professional Week. Both my churches gave me flowers:

I love these white roses from Cornerstone A/G

Here's an adorable potted plant from First Baptist. See the ladybugs? Also attached to the plant, a stress computer. You squeeze it when stressed. It tells you "RELAX."

I also received gift certificates to restaurants, a chocolate pie, and a sweet tea. They know I love chocolate and sweet tea!

3. I didn't take a picture of it yet, but this week our new stove came in that we had ordered a few weeks ago. My old stove was 28 years old so I felt it was time for a new one. I love new appliances!

4. Also, this week I took a step toward physical fitness and bought a circuit trainer mini-trampoline. (No, I will not post pictures of me exercising!) Now, I have no excuse, rain or shine I can walk or jog. My goal for this week is to exercise 10 minutes a day (I'm starting out small and increasing exercise time each week.) I'm proud to say that since Sunday I've met my goal. Next week: 15 minutes a day.

5. I love an activity-free Saturday! Other than going over to do the bulletin at church #2, I have nothing planned! Of course, this means I have no excuse to not clean out the refrigerator ...

So, how did your week go? Why not join us at Susanne's Living to Tell the Story and share?

Thankful Thursday - Provision

Our Thankful Thursday hostess, Laurie, asks the following question:

Aren't you thankful today for not only His provision of the cross, but for daily providing each and every need that we have. I would love to hear your encouraging comments on how God has provided for you!

God has provided for my needs many many times but one time in particular stands out in my memory today.

This incident happened when our first child was about 11 months old. My husband was out of work. We had been living in Terre Haute, Indiana, but our home was in another state. We still owned a house there, and we had been unable to sell it. We decided to go back home and live in the house since we were making payments on it anyway. Surely my husband could find a job back home!

My husband was very nervous about finding a job. He had not had a good experience at his former job, and his confidence was at an all-time low. I felt led by the Holy Spirit to go with him on his job search, to stay in the car and pray for him as he went in and filled out applications. (Our baby stayed with grandma.)

That day, we decided to start out first at the place he wanted to work for the most. I had copied down scriptures dealing with God's promises of provision onto a clipboard. While he went inside to ask for an application, I prayed claiming these promises. It was awhile before my husband returned to the car, but when he did, he had a big smile on his face. He was hired! The company hadn't even been advertising for help, but when they saw he had experience in their field, they hired him. His starting salary was much better than the salary he had received at his previous employer!

This experience definitely is a highlight of my Christian experience when I look back on all the ways God has provided for me. He is definitely my Jehovah-Jireh: The Lord Who Provides. (See Genesis 22:12-14)

Join other thankful souls at Laurie's Women Taking a Stand.

WFMW-Kitchen Essentials-Cookware

Today is part two of my Kitchen Essentials posts, where I share what I think are needed items in every kitchen. Part two's focus is cookware.



1. I recommed stainless steel pots and pans. When I was first married, I had a set of aluminum pans that were yellow on the outside. (My kitchen was orange and yellow - psychedelic!) Anyway, they were beat up and looking bad within a year. Next, I got a pretty teflon set that was white with little flowers on the outside. Again, they didn't last very long. Then I became an Amway dealer for about 4 years. In order to up my PV (points value), I scraped together enough money to buy a set of their waterless stainless steel cookware. It was one of the best things I ever did. I bought them over 25 years ago, and they still look great. They were heavy enough that they didn't get warped, even if I got busy and boiled one dry! And no matter how they got stained, a little elbow grease and a brillo pad helped them look like new again.



2. Cast iron skillets! Cast iron is not popular like it used to be, but I feel every kitchen needs at least one cast iron skillet. Once you get them seasoned and broke it, they are perfect for grilled cheese or to bake cornbread. I have two sizes, an 8" and a 9". The 9" skillet belonged to Jim's grandmother. I've had it for 33 years, no telling how long she had it before me. Some of the things I cook in my cast iron skillet:

• hamburgers
• sloppy joes
• tacos
• fried potatoes
• scrambled eggs
• eggs fried over easy with just a spray of a cooking oil like Pam
• ground chuck browned and ready for other recipes
• grilled cheese
• baked cornbread in the oven

3. The third useful item of cookware is my handy-dandy MicroMaster Microwave Pressure Cooker. You can see a description of it here. The main thing I use this item for is to cook potatoes for mashed potatoes. Peel your potatoes, slicing them into 4 wedges each, and put them in the cooker with enough water to cover. I then nuke them for 20 minutes. Perfect every time for mashing, I never have a pan boiled dry on the stove, and I don't have to check and see if they're done. I then drain the water off and mash them right in the cooker (it's plastic and it won't hurt the cooker). The beauty of doing this is that I can put the lid back on, close the vents, and the mashed potatoes stay nice and warm. I also use this to make potato soup. I've also barbecued chicken breasts in the cooker. For under $10, it's a steal!

4. Next, I feel everyone needs the small micro cooker from Pampered Chef, or something similar. You can see it here. It's awesome! You can melt butter in it, make a white sauce, one can of tomato soup fits perfectly in it, or you can cook a can of peas in it. Microwaving these items means you never burn it on the stove!

5. Last, but not least, I recommend a stainless steel roasting pan, again for the cleaning qualities; and if you buy a heavy one, it will last a long time.

These cookware items are what works for me!

If you would like to learn other great and amazing household tips, visit Kristen at We are THAT Family.

What's On Your Mind '09 - Easy Yoke

Matthew 11:28-30 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”


The question this week's challenge is how do you put Matthew 11:28-30 in practice in your own life?


I think learning to come to the Lord and give Him our burdens is a process. It's natural when things come our way to think that we can solve things on our own. In our human pride, we want to think we are smart enough to come up with a solution. After all, why bother God with it, it's a small thing that we should be able to handle.

So, after trying to handle things on our own and messing up, we then go to God and ask for help. A few times of this and hopefully the light goes off in our brain -- why not ask Him for help at the beginning?

What is a yoke anyway? I looked it up and yoke has several meanings, but the one that refers to a person is the one I think relevant here: "a frame fitted to a person's shoulders to carry a load in two equal portions " (Merriam Webster). God never meant for you to carry too heavy a load alone. Bring it to Him and He will take it in exchange for a lighter one.

For me, I think the biggest challenge of putting this passage into practice in my own life is to hand my burden to God and then step back and keep my hands off it. Give it to God and then not worry ... That's hard to do! When satan reminds me the problem is still there, the best thing to do would be to say, "I've given it to God, in His timing He will work it out." I may have to say that a hundred times a day, but eventually that old snake will leave me alone.

Another point that I think worth mentioning about this passage: When I insist on doing things my way, often it becomes a heavy burden. An example of this is when someone asks me to be in charge of something, and because of pride, I just agree to it without asking Him first. Then when I feel overworked or overwhelmed and complain about it, He could say, "I never told you to do that in the first place!" However, if the Lord impresses me that He wants me to be doing God's work, something He has called me to do, I'll have rest (peace about it) and a light burden because He equips me to do the work.

It all comes down to am I spending enough time with God? If I'm drawing near to Him, He draws near to me: therefore, I'll be better able to hear His voice, guiding me as to which burden He wants me to carry. He'll only give me a light burden - what I'm capable of carrying. I'll be the first to say that I need to work on this. It is indeed a process!

What about you? How do you apply this passage of scripture to your own life? Join in at Shane's Heart Reflections and share.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - April 20, 2009

FOR TODAY, APRIL 20th EDITION...

Outside my window...

glorious sunshine!

I am thinking...

of how well the weekend went.

I am thankful for...

my church family. They are the best!

From the kitchen...

this week I'm wanting to try a homemade macaroni and cheese recipe I've found. I'm not making it tonight because none of the kids are going to be home. It will just be the hubby and me. This is happening more and more as my kids are growing into adults.

I am wearing...

one of my favorites, a navy blue dress and jacket with white jewelry and shoes.

I am creating...

nothing at the moment. I have lots of ideas but haven't put them into action yet. I'm on the lookout for just the right frame for an art project for the kitchen.

I am going...

to run an errand after work.

I am reading...

a Lauraine Snelling book, #4 in the Daughters of Blessing series, "Rebekah."

I am hoping...

to be consistent with using my new circuit trainer mini trampoline. I've got to exercise!

I am hearing...

peaceful silence.

Around the house...

a couple of hot spots need to be cleaned off...

One of my favorite things...

the absence of stress!

A few plans for the rest of the week:

working out on my trampoline, getting ready for a board meeting, getting more SLEEP!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

This is a picture I took of some of my friends from church on a shopping trip to St. Genevieve, MO. They're in front of an antique salvage yard. Unfortunately, it was CLOSED. However, we had a fantastic day of shopping, food and fellowship.

To read other daybooks, join Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Friday's Fave Five- April 17, 2009

I love to participate in Susanne's Friday's Fave Five because I think it is good to look back on our week and reflect on the highlights.

1. Here is a picture of some of our Easter goodies. I decorated a chocolate cake to look like a sunflower. It's called a Sunflower Peep Cake, and I got the idea from Katie's Nesting Spot. You can find directions here. Of course, what is Easter without dyed eggs? I arranged them in my favorite crystal basket, as I do every year.

2. I finished a book by a favorite author, Colleen Coble, entitled "Cry in the Night." I really enjoyed it. I love mysteries!

3. On Monday, I called to make an appointment to get my hair cut, and she worked me in that minute. You gotta love that! I didn't think to take a picture, but it definitely makes me feel better to have a new style.

4. My new cell phone has a full keyboard for texting so I can ask my daughters any time all important questions such as: "where r u?" do u work tonite?" "whats ur plans." You know, mom stuff.

5. This week has been cold and rainy. But today, the sun has broke through and it's predicted to be 72°! To console myself during these dreary days, I look at landscape pictures of better days. Here is one that has a couple favorites: a weeping willow tree and a pond:

Don't you wish you could take a walk on that bridge?

If you'd like to see how the FFF gang's week went, visit Susanne at Living to Tell the Story.

Thankful Thursday - I am God's Daughter

The theme for this week's Thankful Thursday is thanking God that we are His daughters.

As unworthy as I am, I am so thankful that He chooses to make us His children.

2 Cor. 6:17 AMPLIFIED So, come out from among [unbelievers],and separate (sever) yourselves from them, says the Lord, and touch not [any] unclean thing; then I will receive you kindly and treat you with favor, 18 And I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.

It would have been so easy for Him to make us slaves - not children!

It says He will treat us with favor!

It's the greatest Cinderella story ever! He could treat us like step-children, but we get the rights and priviledges of full adoption.

Ephesians 1:4 KJV According as he hath chosen us in him
before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

We are accepted in the beloved!

1 John 3:1 NIV How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.

Did you get that? He lavishes love on His children! Lavish means excess. He excessively loves on His kids!

Woo-Hoo! That is enough to make anyone shout. I am so very thankful that He chose me as His daughter and that I accepted Him. I'm thankful I can call Him Father.

What about you? What are you thankful for today?

Join us at Laurie's Women Taking a Stand.

WFMW-Kitchen Essentials - Baking

I was 20 when I got married and established my own kitchen. At that point in life, I knew how to make 4 items: banana chiffon cake, hamburgers, homemade pizza using a crust mix, and Texas Rice Casserole -- and my hubby hated dishes with rice in them!

I had a lot to learn ...

Over the years, I have learned a lot about cooking and what is needed in a kitchen. I believe that just as a carpenter or mechanic requires good tools to do his job, so should a homemaker have the tools she needs.

Therefore, I have decided to compile a list of what every homemaker needs in her kitchen. (Perhaps someday my daughters will need this list!)

Today, we'll review what I think every kitchen needs for baking:

1. First and foremost, you need a baking stone - preferably more than one. A lot of the tools I have are Pampered Chef, but I must confess that I own three baking stones, two are Pampered Chef, the other is not. I totally love baking stones and use them several times a week. They're great for pizza, cookies, biscuits and anything you would like to have a crispy, browned crust. Eggrolls turn out great on a baking stone!


2. Wonder Cup! I think Pampered Chef has renamed it something else now, but it is a measuring cup that you can measure crisco or peanut butter in and then push it out in one clean swoop. If you bake much, you'll love the Wonder Cup.


3. Next, you need several sets of measuring cups and measuring spoons. For instance, when you make a cake, you use up several measuring cups making the batter. Later, you'll have to wash everything up when it's time to make the frosting if you don't have extra sets. You can purchase extra of these items at the Dollar Tree. I recommend getting stainless steel, though, because I had an unfortuante experience once of having my favorite 1/4 C measuring cup that was made of plastic fall during a dishwashing cycle onto the heating element.
4. A glass measuring cup with a spout for liquids, preferably microwavable. For years, I just used the same measuring cup for solids as liquids. Then I got a glass measuring cup and it made all the difference!
5. A good rubber spatula -- again I recommend Pampered Chef. You don't want a spatula that over time begins to crumble. Been there and done that. You need an assortment of sizes and don't forget to get one that is a flat on one side to scrape out jars. You want to get the last of that peanut butter!
6. A full size apron. This is a must, unless you can look like Kelly Ripa in the kitchen. (Do you believe those commercials that have her whipping through the house looking like a million bucks?) I need an apron that covers my whole torso because I tend to get flour everywhere. I happen to have black aprons so that stains don't show. I have 4 of them so I never have an excuse to have a clean apron.
7. A second set of beaters for your mixer. I admit I don't have this yet, but I am going to purchase this soon. A fully equipped kitchen is a work of art that continually is evolving to meet your needs. Since I bake a lot of cakes, I feel a second set of beaters is essential. Who wants to stop and wash beaters before you can make icing?
8. A scoop to make cookies with. I'm talking about a scoop that has a lever that pushes all the goodness out into a ball of cookie dough. I have the medium Pampered Chef scoop, but am going to purchase the large one, too.

Having the right tools to bless my family in the kitchen works for me! Come back next week when I'll share more Kitchen Essentials!
To learn other great household tips and recipes, visit Kristen at We are THAT Family.
Note: Although I have talked a lot about Pampered Chef, and provided links to some of their products, I am NOT a dealer. I'm just a fan of some of their products!

What's On Your Mind '09 - The Yoke of Christ

Today's assignment is to read this excerpt from Oswald Chambers on Matthew 11:28-30 and express our thoughts based on this scripture:

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

When I look at these scriptures, I have always thought it meant to give Him our problems and He will lighten our load. Certainly that is what the first part of this scripture means. But I notice that Mr. Chambers says, "Jesus is asking us to take one end of the yoke - "My yoke is easy, get alongside Me and we will pull together." Are you identified with the Lord Jesus like that? If so, you will thank God for the pressure of His hand. "

Instead of doing things our own way, doing the work that WE want to do, Jesus wants us to join with Him in HIS work! It makes sense that if we are working WITH Him, things will go well. You're working in the will of God which guarantees success.

"But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations." Psalm 33:11

I also wanted to comment on what Oswald said, "If we did not know some saints, we would say - "Oh, he, or she, has nothing to bear." Lift the veil. The fact that the peace and the light and the joy of God are there is proof that the burden is there too."

I have been guilty of thinking that because some people's lives seem worry-free, they had no burden. I've learned that isn't true, and in fact, often the ones who seem so successful and everything falls into place for them are the very ones struggling with a cross far heavier than mine. Their struggle might be on-going, in the past or at some future date. It may just be the season they are in.

The truth is, every believer has struggles in life. It's a given. The question is, will you trust Christ to help you with it?

What's on YOUR mind? Would you like to express your ideas? Link up at Shane's Heart Reflections and share?

The Simple Woman's Daybook - April 13, 2009

FOR TODAY, APRIL 13th EDITION...

Outside my window...

a dreary rainy day, but I know it is necessary for beauty later on. After all, April showers bring May flowers!

I am thinking...

that chocolate chip cookies are a blessing on dreary mornings ...

I am thankful for...

the Easter season we are in. I don't know why God loves us so much, but I'm sooo glad He does!

From the kitchen...

I need inspiration!

I am wearing...

Black pinstripe pants, dark teal blouse, black beads.

I am creating...

a restful haven for a home.

I am going...

straight home after work.

I am reading...

"Cry In the Night" by Colleen Coble. It's a real page-turner!

I am hoping...

to summon up some motivation for some things that positively need to be done!

I am hearing...

the hum of appliances.

Around the house...

supplies for our bathroom remodel are laying in the living room!

One of my favorite things...

a clean orderly home!

A few plans for the rest of the week:

the ladies of our church are going on a shopping trip. I need to get my work done so that I can go with them.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

My three chicks in their Easter finery!

Join Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read other daybooks.

Friday's Fave Five- April 10, 2009

Once again, it's Friday! It's time to reflect back on our week and pick 5 favorites. It can be anything; events, pictures, quotes, recipes, etc.

I guess I might entitle my 5: "In Search of Spring!"





1. To make my home decor more in tune with Spring, I bought some tulips and daffodils to put over my sink. True, they won't last long as the season for these kind of flowers is almost gone, but, hey, I'll have bulbs for next year.

I'll always have the pictures to remember them!

2. Next, the hubby and I took a drive to the area parks to see if we could find any Spring flowers, bushes, or flowering trees. I have to tell you the ice storms we had have set the vegetation way back from blooming. We did find a nice picture of a flowering tree in my favorite color:

Okay, we're not going to talk about the fact that just two days later, it was spitting snow at lunch time! What's up with that?

3. Today, Friday, is one of my favorite things: a day off! Today's Good Friday, and Spring always comes after Easter! (I don't know why I'm so impatient for Spring, it just means hot days and higher air conditioning bills are just around the corner!)

4. Wednesday, my family went to my daughter's church to hear a special speaker. I have to say that worshiping as a family is definitely one of my favorites. The speaker, Rev. Steve Samson, was very interesting and humorous. I think you can attract people's attention more when you add humor into the mix.

5. In our Sunday School class we are having some discussions on legalism. The Holy Spirit reminded me of this favorite scripture:

John 6:28 Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires?" 29 Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent."

Our work is to believe. Think about it - that can often be harder than you think!

I hope you've had a wonderful week. Why not join the others at Susannne's Living to Tell the Story and tell us all about it?

Thankful Thursday - Sacrifice

The topic for this week's Thankful Thursday is sacrifice. Laurie, at Women Taking a Stand, wrote a beautiful post on this subject. I recommend going to her blog and drinking her words in.

As we focus this week on the sacrifice Christ made for us, we must also ask the question, "How do I show my gratitude for His sacrifice?"

Thankfulness! Our lives need to reflect genuine thankfulness for what He has done for us. All of us that participate in Thankful Thursday are doing just that, but it's more than just a once a week thing. We need to daily give Him glory and praise for all His blessings.

Upon reflecting on the word sacrifice, I feel the Holy Spirit reminded me of these scriptures:

Hebrews 13:15 "Through Jesus, therefore, let us
continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name. 16And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased"

A sacrifice of praise, to me, means praising even when you don't feel thankful. Looking for blessings in the midst of trial.

I had a plan for my life. I was going to be a stay-at-home mom, serving my family as the ultimate homemaker. I didn't ask for riches, but I did want a comfortable life, with a nice home and enough money to pay all my bills with enough left over to bless my family with little treats and luxuries. I wanted to be so organized at home that I had plenty of time to volunteer and help others.

You probably know where I'm going with this: my life's plan didn't happen. It looks like it may never happen unless the Lord works some miracles.

Yet, I feel the Lord is blessed by my abundant praise for the blessings in my life, especially since things didn't go my way. It's really not that hard to find all kinds of things to give Him praise!

When we have a bad day, and get to church, and the worship leader wants you to raise your hands and praise Him -- go ahead and do it anyway. It's so little when you consider how He gave so much!

And you know what is a bonus? Psalm 22:3 tells us that the Lord inhabits the praises of His people. When we are thankful, I think we experience God's presence in a more powerful way.

I also don't want to forget verse 16 of that same passage in Hebrews 13. The sacrifice of doing the right thing and giving to others blesses the Lord.

After all that He has done for us, that's the least we could do for Him!

WFMW-Hot Dog Roll-Ups

When I need a kid-pleasing kind of meal, and leftovers that warm up well in the microwave for lunches, I turn to my old stand-by, Hot Dog Roll-Ups.

Ingredients:

8 hot dogs of your choice (We love Oscar Mayer.)

1 can crescent rolls

2 slices American Cheese

Step One: I start with slightly frozen hot dogs and cut a slit in each dog. Do not go all the way through the hot dog.

Step Two: Next, I take each slice of cheese and cut it into four strips. I then fold each strip.

Step 3: Insert the cheese into each hot dog's opening.

Step 4: Open the can of crescent rolls and separate into triangles. Starting at the wide end of the triangle, roll each hot dog up in the crescent.

Last Step: Layer on baking stone and bake at 350° for 20 minutes.

Enjoy!

Some people call these pigs in a blanket. You can also substitue regular biscuits instead of the crescent rolls. You have to stretch each biscuit out and form around the hot dog. I usually do 16 hot dogs and double the recipe, because we like them warmed up so well, and it works for us!

To find other great household tips and recipes, visit Kristen at We are THAT Family.

What's On Your Mind '09 - Sabbath Keeping

The topic for this week's What's On Your Mind, '09 is "Remember the Sabbath to keep it holy." How do you follow this commandment in today’s non-Sabbath world?

This is an interesting dilemma for me. I have been feeling for awhile now that Sunday's are the busiest day of the week for me. Here is my usual Sunday schedule:

1. 6 a.m. - Get up, shower and do my hair.

2. Study my lesson. (Even if I have spent hours preparing through the week, I still have to go over it on Sunday morning.)

3. Make breakfast for the family and get everyone up and to the table.

4. Finish dressing.

5. Depending on the day's menu, there is always kitchen prep work to be done before leaving for church.

6. 9:00 a.m. - Leave for church so as to be on time to greet students. We live approximately 35 minutes away from our church.

7. Teach

8. After morning worship, meet with the other board members to count the offering.

9. If I have no errands to run, then I rush home to make dinner. (Sunday is always a big family meal.)

10. Put up leftovers and prod children along to clean up kitchen.

11. 3:00 p.m. - Call my mom. (We always talk to each other every Sunday afternoon for 40-60 minutes.)

12. 4:00 p.m. - Take my Sunday afternoon nap. (This is the highlight of my "day of rest"!)

13. 5:00 p.m. - Get up and dressed again to leave for church.

14. 8:00 p.m. - Back home again, change clothes and see about getting a snack for everyone.

How do I make Sundays more restful? It seems like the best way to make it easier would be to cut out the big Sunday dinner. I've toyed with the idea of cooking Sunday dinner on Saturday and then just warming it up. But Saturdays are very busy for me, too.

I've tried going out for dinner or buying takeout to bring home every week, but dinner for 5 can be expensive.

One friend suggested that I just have grilled cheese and tomato soup for lunch. But I've spoiled my hubby and kids for over 20 years now making a big dinner.

To my credit, I don't do any other housework on Sundays other than cleaning the kitchen. I don't do laundry, or buy groceries. (Running into Wal-Mart to get something I forgot doesn't count, does it?) I don't believe in deliberately planning chores for Sunday. I don't want to mow grass or wash the car on Sunday. I certainly don't want to clean out the refrigerator on Sundays, even though that's the day you can really tell it needs it!

I think it comes down to whether you feel that the Lord expects you to obey a set of rules - what is and what is not allowed on Sundays.

Rather than rules, I think He wants us to focus on Him. Of course, He wants that everyday but especially on the Lord's Day.

If I'm all occupied with what I'm making for dinner, I'm not being focused on Him.

I think keeping the Sabbath holy means keeping Sunday "set apart" from your regular activity. Keeping my mind praising and worshiping Him. Having conversations with Him. Meditating on His Word.

It's a challenge -- one that calls for creativity in getting my list of Sunday activities whittled down to make room for worship. If you have any ideas for me, I'd love to hear them!

If you'd like to hear how others keep the Sabbath, visit Shane at Heart Reflections.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - April 6, 2009

FOR TODAY, APRIL 6th EDITION

Outside my window...

another rainy dreary day.

I am thinking...

of how blessed I am that my children are healthy!

I am thankful for...

the Holy Spirit and how He convicts me when I have a wrong attitude or say something I shouldn't. (I feel a post brewing inside about this particular subject! More on this, later.)

From the kitchen...

Spaghetti and garlic bread tonight, and hot-dog roll-ups tomorrow.

I am wearing...

since it's chilly, I'm back to wearing one of my suede jackets and boots with my brown pants and a dark green top. (I've just realized how often I wear my brown pants on Mondays! I'm going to have to change that up.)

I am creating...

something new for my kitchen. I saw the idea over at The Nester's blog and I think I can adapt it for my home. I may need to visit Hobby Lobby for a certain piece of scrapbook paper, though. When finished, I'll post a picture.

I am going...

to a special service at my daughter's church this Wednesday.

I am reading...

Mindy Starns Clark's "Elementary, My Dear Watkins," third in the Smart Chick Mystery series.

I am hoping...

that God moves in a mighty way in my Sunday School class, and anoints me, as the teacher, with real inspiration, wisdom and knowledge.

I am hearing...

exciting things from my friends as they see answers to prayer come to pass.

Around the house...

I have a bookshelf and a desk that needs some serious organizational help!

One of my favorite things...

going on a drive and stopping to take pictures of scenery. My hubby and I tried that this weekend, but was disappointed that the trees are not budding out very much. I think this year's ice storm really damaged the trees.

A few plans for the rest of the week:

shopping for hubby a new church outfit, Easter goodies and dying of eggs (I know the girls are grown but we keep some traditions. For instance, there must be jellybeans!)

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

The bank in the town I work in always has the most beautiful landscaping. Here is a bed of tulips outside their building. Tulips always make me think of spring!

Please visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook and read more daybooks!

Friday's Fave 5 - April 3, 2009

Ahhh, Friday! The best time of the week. How I look forward to you! And what would Friday be without one of my favorite blog carnivals, Friday's Fave Five? I enjoy the Five, because it makes me stop and reflect on the highlights of my week. You know, the older you get, the quicker the weeks fly by ...

1. The highlight of my week was definitely attending the musical my kids' school presented last night, "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." My favorite thing was to hear my baby girl sing in the musical. She played the part of Lucy Van Pelt. She was awesome, if I say so myself. I'm so proud of her!

Malia as "Lucy" singing on Shroeder's piano.

2. I love to laugh! I'm the person, who when tickled, will laugh so hysterically that I wheeze until tears run out of my eyes. It's just how I roll. I had to laugh at the boy who played Snoopy in the musical. He was a riot!

Joel as "Snoopy" singing "Supper Time" as Al Jolson.

Unfortunately, the rest of the week was rather unremarkable, so I'm sharing some of my favorites that could happen any week of my life.

3. Office supplies! Yes, I admit I love office supplies. I don't know why, but a new pen or post-it just makes me happy. This week, Pastor went to an office supply store that was closing and had marked everything dirt cheap. He shared some of the treasures he found, so I have new pens and post-its to play with.

4. I love Chips Ahoy! Chocolate Chip Cookies. You just knew food had to be somewhere in my list. I love them because they have lots of chocolate chips in them. I hate it when I buy a cookie that says it is a chocolate chip cookie on the label, but only has like 3 chips in the whole thing. What's up with that?

5. As you know, I love quotes. Here is one that I haven't shared with you yet:

"The best atmosphere for prayer is praise." Peter Anderson

That wraps up my 5. Why not join Susanne at Living to Tell the Story and read all the others' lists?

Thankful Thursday - Hope

Today the Thankful Thursday crowd is meeting over at Women Taking a Stand. The subject is hope.

As I thought about hope, the first thing to come to mind is the phrase "blessed hope." I quickly went to one of my favorite websites, Bible Gateway, and typed in the keywords "blessed hope." I smiled in satisfaction because the scripture validated my belief in what every believer's hope should be:

"while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ" Titus 2:13

I don't know about you, but I can't wait for that day. Our world will be put right when Jesus comes! Our struggles and trials that we have so long endured will be over.

Back up a minute! Let's don't take this verse out of context. Yes, we have hope, but we also have something to do while we're hoping. Read below the whole passage:

"11For the grace of God that brings salvation has
appeared to all men. 12It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. " Titus 2:11-13.

Aww, man! There's that word, "self-controlled!" That's right. As we hope for that wondrous future event of God making everything right and good, we must live godly self-controlled lives. We have to be eager to do what's good. Eager is not being passive but actively seeking to do good.

I suppose you're thinking, "Jerralea, you're going down a rabbit trail. You are supposed to be sharing what you're thankful for!" You're so right! Please keep reading.

I am thankful for not only the "blessed hope" but that He has given us something to do while we hope. Think how boring it would be if we were to apathetically hang around waiting for Jesus to rescue us. (Know anyone like that?) Instead He trusts us to be a passionate people, purifying ourselves as we minister to others. That's something to be thankful about!

Join us at Laurie's Women Taking a Stand (You have to love the name of her website!) to read how others responded to the call of being thankful.

Come Saturday Morning

One Saturday, when I was probably about 9 years old, my family went to visit my mother's cousin and her family in Janesville, Wisconsin.

It was a perfect early summer day. We arrived about mid-morning at my cousin's farm. Being from the suburbs of Chicago, it was enormously exciting to my brother and me to be on a farm! Cousin Betty Sue's children surrounded us and offered to show us around.

I remember there were pigs. I had always imagined pigs to be shiny pink and was surprised to see the huge hogs that were black and white with dirty skin. We hung on the fence and watched the hogs root around in the pig-pen. Growing bored with that, the cousins wanted us to come into the barn and climb on the hay bales. The barn was two stories and we leaned out the second story window looking down into the pig-pen. I remember jumping into the pen, but that seems crazy now. Could we really have done that? Perhaps we climbed down a ladder from the barn into the pen. My 5 year old brother thought it was great fun - but then he always loved playing in the dirt.

It wasn't long until it was time for lunch. We had sloppy joes for the first time. I thought that was the most delicious lunch ever.

After lunch, we decided to go bike riding. I can't remember how many cousins went (there were 7 of them). I do know the oldest, Patty, graciously lent me her bike and stayed home. My brother stayed home, too, to play in the dirt some more with Little Arthur, whom he called "lil Arfner."

Looking back, I don't know if it was really that beautiful or just the memory of that day has become embellished in my mind. It seemed as if the blue sky was the bluest it had ever been as we rode bikes up and down country roads. The grass was so green and the white clouds so fluffy. We came upon a bridge when Jackie (the cousin closest to my age) said, "let's stop and catch minnows." We laid our bikes down on the grass and went underneath the bridge to splash and play in the water.

The sun shone on the ripples on the water like golden beams! The air felt perfect. The water was just the right temperature. It was like ... heaven on earth.

That's the last thing I remember - playing in the water. I can't remember about going back home. For some reason, we never went there to visit again.

It's been forty something years ago since that day, yet I'll never forget it. There's a song by the Sandpipers that was popular in my teens called "Come Saturday Morning." The first verse goes:

Come Saturday morning

I'm goin' away with my friend

We'll Saturday-spend 'til the end of the day-ay

Just I and my friend

We'll travel for miles in our Saturday smiles

And then we'll move on

But we will remember

Long after Saturday's gone

Every time I hear that song, I'm transported back to that creek in Janesville, Wisconsin. I can see the sun shining on the waters and feel the care-free joy of being a child.

It's one of my most precious memories and I can't help but feel that perhaps in just a very small way it's a tiny glimpse of what heaven might be like.

What about you? Do you have any special memories of childhood? Please share!