Frugal Home Living

If I Didn't Have A Dog or Cat....

2012-01-21T11:09:00.000-06:00

I could walk around the yard barefoot. My house could be carpeted instead of tiled and laminated. All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture, and cars would be free of hair.When the doorbell rings, it wouldn't sound like a kennel. When the doorbell rings, I could get to the door without wading through fuzzy bodies who beat me there.I could sit on the couch and my bed the way I wanted, without taking into consideration how much space several fur bodies would need to get comfortable. I would have money, and no guilt to go on a real vacation. I would not be on a first-name basis with 6 veterinarians,as I put their yet unborn grandkids through college. The most used words in my vocabulary would not be: out, sit, down, come, no, stay, and leave it ALONE.

My house would not be cordoned off into zones with baby gates or barriers. I would not talk 'baby talk'. 'Eat your din din'. 'Yummy yummy for the tummy'...My house would not look like a daycare center, toys everywhere. My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, treats and an extra leash.I would no longer have to spell the words B-A-L-L, W-A-L-K, T-R-E-A-T, O-U-T, G-O, R-I-D-E, C-O-O-K-I-E. I would not have as many leaves INSIDE my house as outside. I would not look strangely at people who think having ONE dog/cat ties them down too much. I'd look forward to spring and the rainy season instead of dreading 'mud' season. I would not have to answer the question...'Why do you have so many animals? 'from people who will never have the joy in their lives of knowing they are loved unconditionally by someone as close to an ANGEL as they will ever get. How EMPTY my life would be!!!

Life...Fast Forwarded

2012-01-11T14:05:00.000-06:00

It's funny how fast life changes. This time last year I was sitting in a court room listening to the Judge declare that I am now legally divorced. A year later, I have a smile on my face & in my heart that no one can take away. I am surrounded by family & friends who mean the most to me & I am loving life for the first time in years. Just because a season or chapter of our life closes doesn't mean it's the end of the world....oh to the contrary...it can be the biggest, brightest open door you've ever seen. Embrace each day as it comes & love every expierence because ultimately everything is a learning expierence for the betterment of yourself.

Fresh Rain

2012-01-09T01:28:00.000-06:00

Laying here listening to the roaring thunder as the rain falls & it makes think of how blessed I am to have a warm, dry place to seek refuge. But even greater than the refuge of home is the refuge we find in CHRIST. HE is our ultimate shelter from any storm that crosses our path in life. Look to the Heavens and feel the freshness of the rain falling from heaven in the form of GOD'S love.

Image source

It's A Special Day!!

2012-01-06T15:09:00.000-06:00

My sweet baby girl turned 5 months old today......Mommy love's you Dixie Lee!!

I just love my baby doll....Dixie Lee is one special blessing.

Dixie Lee's Biker & Valentine Coture

2012-01-03T20:48:00.004-06:00

Reflections & Gratitude For The Old & New Year

2012-01-01T06:25:00.004-06:00

It's officially January 1, 2012. Time to start fresh with a new outlook for the year ahead. Most of us make our traditional "new year resolutions" but honestly, most don't keep up with them long enough to see an active change. I personally, don't bother with them as I know they will fall by the wayside no matter how good the intention was. Yes, there are things I want to do in this new year to better myself in areas of health, work life, etc. More so, I want to look back at 2011 and praise the LORD for where I am right now.

I am sitting here in the early morning silence looking at the blessings around me. I have some of the most terrific family & friends in my life. Family that are willing to stand by in the good times & bad. No, not all family members are like that but I have my Mother & Father who mean the world to me. No matter what, they are always there to lend an ear, a shoulder to cry on, support in ways that I can't even explain...but most of all, they are always there to freely give their love. There are days that I don't know how I would have made it through with out them. Mom....Dad...I love you more than any words could ever express. Thank you for giving me the gift of life, and for continuing to be a part of it no matter what.

Most of us have friends we can count on when it matters most, but there is one person in my life, next to my parents, that I could not ever imagine my life without. This person, just as my parents, has seen me at my lowest of lows. This person has also seen me at my highest of highs and places in between. When it looked like everything had fallen apart in my world, this person was always there to help hold the pieces together. No matter what the situation at hand was like, I could always count on a positive word from them. When I fell, they were always there to lend a hand to help me up. When I was scared & didn't know what to do, they were always right there with me to help calm & ease my fears. When I didn't want to face reality, I could always count on them to wake me up & make me face it no matter what....and it was always for my benefit. When I experienced the joys in life, they were always right beside me rejoicing with me. They opened my world to new adventures and new ideals. Although I have known this person all my life, and time had separated us for awhile, being back in each others lives has meant more to me than I could ever imagine. Now don't think this is a one sided friendship....I have been there for my friend just the same...the friendship we share can't be severed or damaged by any means. Everything we have shared and will share along our journey in life only brings us that much closer together & strengthens us from the foundation on up. There is nothing I wouldn't do for my friend & nothing they wouldn't do for me. I thank the LORD everyday for the blessing of my friend. There is no way possible to thank you "J" all I can say is I love you dearly....I love you more than anything and as much as my parents. You truly are created in GOD'S own image and I don't ever want to not have you in my life.

I have so much to be thankful for from 2011, and more to look forward to in 2012. Though I know not what each day holds in store, I do know I would not want to go into this new year with out those that matter most to me. Let us all be grateful for who the LORD has placed in our lives. Happy New Year to each and everyone of you!

Happy New Year

2011-12-30T17:03:00.004-06:00

May the New year bring you all the blessings the Lord has for you.

~ Peace, Joy & Love ~

Santa's Helper

2011-12-25T08:41:00.001-06:00

Dixie Lee sends Christmas wishes to each and everyone!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T07:47:00.003-06:00

May the magic of Christmas live forever in our hearts!

Christmas Wishes

2011-12-23T17:19:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas each and everyone!

Waiting For Santa

2011-12-23T14:47:00.004-06:00

Ok, I got my pj's on....now where's that fat man ya'll keep talking about?

Really....I've been good! I'm just sitting here waiting....come on Santa!

Still waiting.....

Santa's Coming....

2011-12-23T10:18:00.003-06:00

Dixie Lee in her new "Waiting for Santa" long-jons. Is this little girl spoiled or what!!??!!

Dixie Lee....She's A Big Girl Now!

2011-12-22T13:37:00.008-06:00

My baby girl nervously awaiting her "big girl" series of shots at the vet's office. No more puppy shots....she's growing up fast. This time she weighed in at 6.2lbs! Wow!! Such a big little girl!!

Dixie Lee 12-18-11

2011-12-20T13:44:00.008-06:00

I just love this little Princess!

....And So It Continued

2011-12-15T13:40:00.008-06:00

Gifts that my awesome co-workers lavished me with for my birthday. I am such a blessed woman.

Birthday Blessings....

2011-12-14T13:45:00.003-06:00

More birthday goodies from my sweet dear friend. I am so blessed.

Beauty in Simplicity

2011-12-14T13:37:00.004-06:00

Just had a delivery of beautiful flowers sent to me at work for my birthday.

Shopping For The Princess

2011-12-05T08:54:00.005-06:00

Yesterday we did some Christmas shopping. Of course Dixie Lee couldn't be left out....

A new leather collar with her name in rhinestones along with her princess crown. So fitting for her. In addition, I had to get her a pair of shoes to keep her little tootsies dry and warm during those winter day outings.

Here she is sporting her new shoes. Yep, it's a sight to see when she's walking around. LOL

Dixie Lee's Holiday Attire

2011-11-29T13:17:00.006-06:00

Dixie Lee's newest holiday apparel. Isn't she the cutest, most precious little girl you've ever seen!!!

My Snowman Christmas Tree 2011

2011-11-27T20:39:00.000-06:00

Play Day!

2011-11-19T16:18:00.002-06:00

She looks so rough and tough, but they're both just big little babies!

Snuggie Anyone!?!

2011-11-19T16:16:00.001-06:00

Let's Sail

2011-11-19T16:13:00.003-06:00

I don't care who you are...Dixie Lee is just precious and you know it!

My Princess

2011-11-19T10:09:00.002-06:00

Pretty Girl!

2011-11-10T21:54:00.001-06:00

Oh Happy Day!

2011-11-06T16:04:00.004-06:00

It's a big day in our home....Dixie Lee turned 3 months old today!! Happy Birthday to my spoiled little girl!

Hot Dog

2011-11-06T15:50:00.003-06:00

Dixie Lee has found her new favorite place to sleep....atop the heating pad. Her belly feels like it's 100* but boy howdy does she love it!

Ride Hard, Live Long

2011-11-06T14:47:00.005-06:00

We had so much fun at the Bike Rally this week. I can't imagine anything better. There were thousands of awesome bikes, long pipes and wild vibrations to get your adrenaline pumping! Can't wait until next year. In the meantime, we'll keep on riding every chance we get.

Dixie Lee's First Halloween

2011-10-31T15:24:00.004-05:00

After running some errands around town we stopped off at the local burger & malt shoppe here in town.....

Then after playtime at home, she was tuckered out for the afternoon....

Dixie Lee's Halloween Costume

2011-10-25T20:07:00.004-05:00

This weekend Dixie Lee's "Aunt Dana" bought her a new outfit for Halloween. Who says Dixie isn't spoiled! But ain't she cute!!!

The Old or The New.....The Choice to Change is Yours

2011-10-22T10:01:00.021-05:00

There comes a time in every one's life where it is necessary to look back over the events of your past and re-evaluate things. If we look at things with honesty and an open mind, we'll find that the choices we made in different situations resulted in either good or poor outcomes. The problem we run into is that the first time we err it's a 'mistake' the next time it happens (regarding the same type of situation) it's no longer a mistake...it now becomes a 'choice.'

The choices we made then & now can affect our future in a grander scheme than we might realize. When we repeatedly make the same 'choices' life can become stressful, overwhelming and lacking in joy. These 'choices' can also become very detrimental to your own mental, spiritual, emotional and even at times physical well being.

So how do you stop repeating history and make a new chapter in your life? It sounds like it would be easy to just 'choose' a new way to handle things, but if we don't get to the real root of what makes us do what we do, then the repetitive actions will never change. The answer is not always easy. Old habits and old thought patterns are hard to break but if we look deeper into what triggers are ingrained in us, it is then and only then that we can start the road of new life.

What is it that truly has us bound to these old patterns? Whatever it is, we need to let go of it before we can move on. Old thinking and old beliefs that were branded into us from our childhood, our teen years, our adulthood or whatever the case may be can hold us in bondage until we learn to recognize them for what they are...chains that the enemy is using against us. There is nothing that Satan would love more than to have you held down by chains of negative words that may have been spoken over you as a child, or ill actions that were done to you over the course of your life. Regardless of what was spoken or done to you, the main thing you need to remember is that you are more valuable than what the ignorance or jealousy of others have spewed out upon you.

Did you ever hear the statements "you're so ugly," "you'll never amount to anything," "your just like your mother/father...I hated him/her and I hate you too," "no one is ever going to love you," "you don't deserve _______ (fill in the blank)."

When someone says ugly, hurtful things to you or acts out toward you in a spiteful manner (that is unwarranted) the problem isn't that what they are saying or doing is justified...it stems from something they themselves are dealing with. It could be an issue of jealousy on their part. Regardless of the reasoning behind their crass behavior we don't have to fall prey to believing the lies told to us. We have the choice to accept their ignorance as fact or move past it and see things for how they truly are.

Beliefs & thought patterns that don't serve us need to be let go of in order for us to move on. Once we realize that the words and actions of others don't matter to us because we know the truth, life will fall into a clearer perspective. Unnecessary self doubts will no longer hinder us. The joy we once had (or maybe never had) will return. Or self confidence will begin to rise and life itself will become easier to live. How do we fully let go? We give our self permission to release the bondage of the thoughts & emotions that held us back.

Begin erasing the tape recordings of repeated words, stories or actions that cause us to fall into the trap of old thinking and wrong choices that hinder us. Accept yourself for who you really are and not that of who others have made you feel as if you are because of their wrong thinking. You can't fix the wrong thinking or curt actions of others but you don't have to let the snares of the enemy trap you any longer.

This is how she rides....

2011-10-18T21:04:00.004-05:00

Dixie Lee just loves to go for rides in the truck....but....her favorite place to sit is behind your back so she can look out the window as she goes down the road. She is such a spoiled brat!

Promises, Promises

2011-10-15T16:03:00.010-05:00

Excerpt from "What to do until love finds you" by Michelle Mckinney Hammond

"How little we see when we're close up; how revealing a step back can be. Don't ever lose sight of one of the most pround promises of GOD - 'All things work together for good to those who love GOD, to those who are called according to HIS purpose.' (Romans 8:28)"

"Kisses aren't promises, they carry no warranties guaranteeing a lifetime of service or love...they are but the hunger of two hearts for the moment, the longing to touch beneath the surface...to sample the very essence of one's soul.

...to taste, to explore, to experience one's breath and perhaps draw life from it...gently probing, pressing past outward appearances and reservations connecting...prying...nudging each other's consciences and desires into awakening, challenging one another's inhibitions in a gentle game of truth or dare

...kissing...touching...leaving a portion of one's inner self behind, sometimes meaning to return to the well for yet another drink, sometimes not...for the cord has been broken only the sweet aroma of two spirits once intertwined remains to dissipate into unspoken memories and feelings never vocalized

...no promises made...no promises kept...after all, kisses never have been and never will be promises..."

An Out Of The Way Lunch

2011-10-11T19:36:00.001-05:00

I just love visiting those little out of the way, off the beaten path places. Today for lunch I went to a wonderful Italian spice company that also has a delicatessen inside. Every afternoon they offer a different lunch special, but today I was in the mood to try their Muffaletta. This baby was so huge...I had enough not only for lunch but now for dinner as well.

The selection of specialty items they carry are just fantastic! And of course what could be better than freshly imported cheeses and salami. Now that's a meal in itself.

Dixie Lee "The Bird Terrier" 10-9-11

2011-10-10T11:34:00.002-05:00

While out running some errands this weekend, we stopped off at PetsMart and picked up a new toy for Dixie Lee...a stuffed bird that is just her size. Once she saw it there was no letting loose from it. She was in heaven with that thing. Then she found out that it squeaks! Boy oh boy, that made it even better for her. She just loves that thing. Last night she even brought it to bed with her and slept right next to it.

Dixie Lee & Her Fall Blanket 10-10-11

2011-10-10T11:29:00.002-05:00

The rains finally came and gave our extremely drought ridden area a break. Unfortunately, the next morning the sun was brightly shining and the heat was back in full force. So to make it at least "look" cooler in the house, I pulled out my festive Fall throw & immediately Dixie Lee took it over as her own. Yep, she is definitely spoiled rotten already.

Breakfast Time

2011-10-10T09:38:00.003-05:00

Dixie Lee's first scrambled egg breakfast. Yep, she's a well privileged dog for sure!!

Home & Hope

2011-10-09T15:27:00.000-05:00

So I'm at Walmart today & I happened to see these two signs sitting next to each other. Then it hit me...Home is where one should always find a sense of hope. But home doesn't have to be limited to mortar & beams...home is where your heart is. So never let your heart loose hope and you'll always have a home for your dreams.

Dixie Lee's New Fall Attire 10-1-11

2011-10-08T14:00:00.004-05:00

Grandma bought Dixie Lee her first Fall outfits. Isn't she just a doll!!!???!!!

Her little jacket for those chilly temperatures.....if we ever get anything below 90*!!

Dixie Lee's Puppy Shots 10-7-11

2011-10-08T13:43:00.006-05:00

Dixie Lee had her first visit to the vet (since I acquired her) to get her 8 week puppy shots. She weighed in at a whopping 2.5 lbs!!

I just love her little bulls-eye butt! LOL

Dixie Lee 9-29-11

2011-09-29T22:44:00.004-05:00

Peace and blessings to you....Happy Rosh Hashanah

2011-09-29T10:49:00.003-05:00

Dixie Lee 9-27-11

2011-09-27T20:51:00.003-05:00

Dixie Lee 9-26-11

2011-09-26T22:09:00.002-05:00

My beautiful little angel....

Dixie's Day

2011-09-25T20:58:00.003-05:00

Dixie Lee just loves to snuggle....

She's so little her blanket is a Kleenex tissue!

Dixie Lee's First Day At Home

2011-09-25T19:52:00.003-05:00

Dixie Lee's Ride Home

2011-09-25T19:48:00.002-05:00

This Just In....

2011-09-23T19:50:00.005-05:00

The breeder just sent me some more photos of my baby girl that were taken today. I haven't even met her yet but I love her so much!! I can't wait to see and hold her.

She is the cutie pie in the top of the photo.

At least I know she's a good eater!

I don't think she's come up for air yet.

Her curled up little tail is so sweet...

Four Legged Blessing

2011-09-23T10:20:00.009-05:00

I am such a lover of Rat Terriers and after loosing my two precious, beloved Rat's this year I didn't think I would really be ready for another one. Yet, time & circumstance presented itself in a fashion that I couldn't resist. So without further ado....I'd like to introduce you to my newest four legged blessing. Isn't she just a doll!!! I can hardly wait to pick her up this weekend. Now the hard part....what to name her.

"It"

2011-09-17T20:58:00.007-05:00

(Click image for source)

You want "it" but it seems so out of reach. You might not know exactly what it's supposed to look like but you feel it in your soul, so you have a pretty good idea. For more years than you can count, you have desired it, but alas it never seems to manifest. Still, you keep hoping for it.

Then, one day, out of nowhere something happens to give you hope that "it" just might be something obtainable for you. Days, weeks and months go by and you feel as if you might be even closer to having it...then all of a sudden, "it" appears in a glimmer from a completely different source. Awestruck by what might be taking place, you try to re-evaluate and look at things from both angles. Is "it" really a possibility for you after all?

Time moves on and then you're awakened that what you thought originally was "it" might not be exactly what you thought, it's just something that's merely close to it. Yet, stagnate circumstances obstruct the way to reaching it. It seems every time the light darkens to obtaining it, the sparkle shines from the secondary source. It's a sparkle that looks closer to what you imagined it would look like even though you didn't really have a clear picture of it before.

Just as you begin to let go and start thinking that it might in fact become something more, the sparkle disappears. You look back and the stagnate circumstances still remain as before but it looks as if there might be a little movement in the water. The movement looks like it might actually be trying to clear itself out to make headway. Wait....what if it does move closer to you.....is it really what you thought you wanted all along or was it just a contentment in settling since it was merely a close image? Is this what you were meant to do, just settle? Or do you let it go and move on?

Your thoughts keep going back to the secondary source but you can never seem to get a clear enough view of the full picture. Each time you think you have things focused, the vision blurs. Do you continue to try and get a clearer look at it, or do you just settle for the uncertainty? Or do you let it go and move on?

Do you give up on one or the other or do you continue to sway in limbo in hopes of a better picture? Or do you just give in and give up with the realization that "it" truly is beyond your reach? Do you settle in the idea that "it" is merely a dream? Disappointment rears it's ugly head so you fight back the feelings and lock them away. You don't want anyone to know that you let your walls down enough to feel the hurt of hopeful desire. You are always the strong one, the one others look upon as if you are made of stone. They never expect you to feel....really "feel" and if they knew, they wouldn't be able to accept it because it doesn't fit their image of you. But inside you are a vulnerable little girl who feels....who hurts....who cries herself to sleep at night.

Bucky Covington..."I'll Walk"

2011-09-12T18:35:00.001-05:00

Hank Williams III in Concert

2011-09-08T00:22:00.001-05:00

Went and saw 3-Cephous tonight in person....he rocked it out of the house!!! Hank III does his granddaddy proud!!!

2011-09-05T21:41:00.000-05:00

Got my new riding lawn mower Sunday night!!! I am so blessed. I can't wait to get out and take it for a spin around the property.

Happy Labor Day!

2011-09-05T09:19:00.002-05:00

Under the spreading chestnut tree
The village smithy stands;
The smith a mighty man is he
With large and sinewy hands.
And the muscles of his brawny arms
Are strong as iron bands.
He earns whatever he can,
His brow is wet with honest sweat,
And looks the whole world in the face,
For he owes not any man.

~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Summertime Blues & Bike Festival

2011-09-04T17:35:00.003-05:00

The Bronco is back!

2011-09-03T16:57:00.004-05:00

I'm so excited.....after a brief trip to the shop for routine maintenace, my tiller is now back at home. I feel a Fall garden coming on!!!

The Goodbye Quilt

2011-09-02T06:44:00.002-05:00

"A quilt is an object of peculiar intimacy. By the virtue of the way it's created, every inch of the fabric is touched. Each scrap absorbs the quilter's scent & the invisible oils of her skin, the smell of her household and thanks to the constant pinning & stitching, her blood in the tiniest of quantities. And tears, though she might be loath to admit." ~ excerpt from The Goodbye Quilt by Susan Wiggs

Fall Outdoor Decor

2011-09-01T07:46:00.003-05:00

Great news....on my way to work this morning I didn't melt while locking my front door!! Then when I started my vehicle, I noticed the thermometer only read "89*" instead of the usual 101* and higher that we've been having. I know this doesn't sound too "fall like" but trust me, it was a huge difference from the mornings over the past few months. Fall just can't get here soon enough for my taste!! So in the meantime, I will simply enjoy my outdoor Fall decor.

The Promise of an Angel - A Review

2011-09-01T06:55:00.002-05:00

I am such a fan of books about the Amish, so when BookSneeze offered "The Promise of an Angel" by Ruth Reid to review, I jumped at the chance.

Summary: "After a barn raising accident, Judith is convinced she's met an angel. However, her attempts to convince her Old-Order Amish Community prove to be frustrating. Only one man, Andrew, believes her yet her husband to be, Levi does not & he demands that she forget the nonsense. Martha, Judith's younger sister has a fancy for Levi is sees this as an opportunity to try and catch Levi's eye. In a dream the angel tells Judith she must choose her path. As her faith continues to grow, so do her feelings for Andrew. Will she continue to place her hope in the angel's message, even if it means loosing all she knows and loves?"

When I began reading the book I immediately felt as if I was right there in the community. I could realy envision the setting & feelings the writer was conveying through the pages. I just couldn't put the book down. For those that love to read during the Fall/Winter, I would highly recommend it.

Fall Home Decor

2011-08-30T20:25:00.004-05:00

This extreme heat has got to end at some point, but until then I couldn't take it any longer. I had to get out my Fall decor.

My t.v. room...

My new table all decked in Fall style....

My t.v. room fireplace mantle...

My formal living room fireplace mantle...

Entryway shelf...

My dining room table....the crocheted doilie was a beautifully handmade gift from my best friend's sister-in-law. It's absolutely gorgeous!

Decorating For Less

2011-08-30T01:27:00.001-05:00

For weeks now I have been thinking that I 'need' an end table for my family room. Well, it just so happened that I went by Kohl's yesterday just to browse around. Well, lo and behold what did I find??? An end table that matches my entertainment center and bookshelf perfectly. However, it was $149.99 and if you know me, I refuse to pay full price for anything!! So I walked away from it. Something kept pulling that table to the front of my thoughts so finally I went back to look at it again. This time I pulled the box off the shelf and really took a good look at it. What did I see upon further inspection??? An orange clearance tag sticker. It was marked down to $49.99!!! Best yet, I had a credit left on a gift card therefore after taxes I only paid $41.14 for the table. Now that's what I call a bargain. Well, naturally I thought about it on the way home and I knew it needed something else...a table lamp. So I stopped off at Dollar General and found a lamp that matched my decor wonderfully. So for $7 for the lamp and $5 for the shade I walked out with a perfect companion to my table. I just love bargain days!!

A Stroll Through The Pages

2011-08-27T05:48:00.000-05:00

Ok, I gave it my best shot, but I had to give up the ghost on this one. As much as I wanted to read the book before seeing the movie, I just couldn't get in to it. I am really disappointed but I am going to give the movie it's fair chance though.

I've not read any of Debbie Macomber's books but she does talk about the character having a cat named "Cleo" in the book. So I figured that right there was well worth giving it a try.

Timing Is Everything

2011-08-20T19:15:00.002-05:00

"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma ~ which is living with the result of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary." ~ Steve Jobs

"Life is all about timing....the unreachable becomes reachable, the unavailable becomes available, the unattainable....attainable. Have the patience, wait it out. It's all about timing." ~ Stacey Charter

A Little Apron Humor

2011-08-17T19:24:00.001-05:00

Summertime Fun

2011-08-01T19:47:00.001-05:00

DQ Blizzard maker.....I think even Martha Stewart would call it "a good thing!" We definitely need one of 'em!

The Time At Hand

2011-07-25T20:33:00.003-05:00

Esther 4:13b "....and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" When GOD calls you, HE prepares & equips you. Could it be that all these years HE has been preparing us for such a time as this?

Decisions & What if's

2011-07-23T05:31:00.001-05:00

(Image Source)

It never ceases to amaze me the things that happen when you least expect it to or when your not looking at all. It makes me wonder sometimes if this is just GOD'S way of showing us HIS sense of humor or if HE is actually testing us to see what move we will make.

Ok, I know GOD never gives anything more than we can handle. After all, HE created us so HE knows very well what were capable of handling. But there are times when I have to step back and ask GOD, "what is it that your trying to teach me here?" Maybe HE is trying to teach me to be more specific in my prayer requests to HIM. We know (or think we know) what it is that we want or need in life, so we talk to the LORD about and make our request known. What we fail to realize is that we have given HIM not a specific petition but one that has a broad spectrum to it concerning what we feel we need. Well, you know as well as I do if we ask for something from someone but don't specify what it is we want, the likely hood of getting exactly what you wanted is pretty wide open. Say I ask my mom to pickup onions at the market. The likely hood of her coming home with white onions versus purple onions which is what I really wanted is going to be a toss up because I wasn't specific in my request to her.

It's the same with our petitions to the LORD. Say we ask HIM to open the door for us to get a job. Well HE can and will do just that. But the job that might be open to us might not be what we were looking for. Instead we need to be specific. Don't just ask for "a job" instead petition for a "good job with good pay, a job with benefits, a job that allows for your growth within the company, etc." If you do that, look out because the LORD is going to bring you 'that' job that you gave specifics for.

The same is true is all facets of our life, not just concerning onions or jobs. I hear friends say things like, "GOD I wish you'd bring me a boy/girl friend or spouse." Well, HE can bring you one but will it be what you truly want? Maybe...then again maybe not. Do you want just any 'ol mate or do you want a person with your same Biblical beliefs, one who shares mutual interests, one who likes to stay home instead of going out partying, etc. You want someone that you have common denominators with, not just a person who you'll get tired of after one or two shallow conversations with. What if your looking for a home? You need to be specific in the home, neighborhood, land, city, etc that you can be. Yes, it's true the LORD knows the desires of our heart but HE also wants us to tell them to HIM.

So let's say we have been specific in our petition and that which we thought was the answer to your prayer manifests. After all, it looks like what we prayed for, it fulfills what we needed, etc. Then a little while down the road you notice something....it makes you begin to wonder....you start thinking "was that really my answer to prayer?" You're beginning to question the old answer because it seems as if the LORD has brought to your path a new answer and this time it looks even closer to what you need. It wasn't that you weren't specific with your original request, it may be an issue that your needs have changed some...or maybe you just weren't fully aware of what your future needs would be. Alas, the LORD knows everything and is always way ahead of us.

But what do you do in case like this? Do you toss aside the old for the new? Do you ignore the new for the old? Or do you hold on to both and hope that you can make the two fit in your life somehow? There is never any right or wrong answer that someone can give you. There isn't an easy "do this" or "do that" answer that . But there is one thing that you can do, and that is pray. Pray long and hard about it. Pray without ceasing until you are sure in your spirit as to what it is that the LORD is directing you to do. Don't go off half cocked & prime making a rash decision without consulting your Heavenly Father. If you do, 'that' is exactly when you'll be most likely to make mistakes that could have been avoided.

What do you do in the meantime while you're waiting for that Word from the LORD? You might be thinking about the "what if's." What if while I'm waiting I miss out on that opportunity? What if...what if...what if.....Don't let the voice of the what if's speak louder than the voice of the LORD. It's not easy to wait, but don't give up hope and faith in the LORD and the promises HE has for you. The answer will come in HIS perfect timing. Just hold fast and cling tight to the LORD.

Life

2011-07-21T06:11:00.001-05:00

Life is getting back on the right track and I"m finally learning to live again....no I'm learning to live for the first time & it feels great!

2011-07-20T00:00:00.002-05:00

We can't dwell on the "what could have been's" in our life, we can only look to the "what can be" of our future.

Assembly Required

2011-07-18T21:30:00.003-05:00

So tonight I was putting together a shelving system for my laundry room. After putting the hammer up, I saw the following statement on the box, "No Tools Required For Assembly." Yeah, I don't think so...that hammer came in quite nicely!

The Music From Within

2011-07-16T06:55:00.000-05:00

"A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you've forgotten the words." - Wanda Brunstetter (Lydia's Charm)

Life's events have a way of removing from our hearts the song that once lived there. Sometimes that song is replaced by yet another joyous tune and sometimes it can be replaced with darkness and clamour. It is never our intent to loose the words or the melody of that which made us smile on the inside. In reality, our song never truly leaves us, it simply lies dormant waiting to be rediscovered once again.

When I have felt as if I would never again remember the words to my song, I have been so blessed to have my dearest and closest friend help bring it back to my heart...the only thing different is each time I hear my song I find that the lyrics have changed slightly. Each time it sounds even better than the last. Thank YOU Father for giving me my precious new song.

Psalms 40:3 "And He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD."

Out Of The Fire & Into The Son -- Part 2

2011-07-11T06:09:00.002-05:00

Each day brings it's own set of challenges, victories, stumblings & rewards. But you know, no matter what I may be facing, I know that there is One Who is always there with me. In fact He has already gone before me, so I need not fret or worry over the picture before me, because He knows the end result even though I don't. Is it easy to always sit back, not worry or wonder and allow the LORD to handle things when you are in the midst of a pressing circumstance? No! Let's be real here...it's only natural to stress, worry and wonder about how you might overcome the crooked path laid before you, but that's when we really need to exercise our faith. Yes, even our faith requires a regular workout to stay healthy and to grow stronger in the LORD.

As things began to deteriorate in the marriage, there was a definite separation taking place that I could feel in my heart. It wasn't a separation just in the natural (communication, physical, mental, emotional, etc.,) there was a separation in the spirit that was taking place. The spiritual connection that we once had as a couple was fleeting rapidly. Finding us on the same pew Church was one thing, but our inner spiritual lives were definitely going in opposite directions. I'm not saying one was more holy than the other nor do I mean to say that one of us were right and the other wrong....what we were experiencing individually at the time, I guess you could say, was right for each of us at the time. Over the course of time, the distance was clearly able to be seen. Where one of us could be found in the house of the Lord during service times & in Bible study not just at home but with fellow believers, the other could be found in front of the tv, or socializing with friends over a beer or cigarette. Am I condemning one or the other for their choices, no. We all do what we feel we need to do for ourselves at the time.

Regardless of the situation at hand, I prayed and believed for the LORD to reconcile the relationship. As bad as things were in the home, I still prayed for things to not end. I did ask the LORD to not allow things to go on as they had been though. I remember the day as clear as if it were happening now....the day that the LORD showed me a glimpse of what I was about to go through. I had bent down beside my bed to pick up a book from the floor, when all of a sudden I heard a voice ask me, "do you love him?" I turned to see who was there but I was alone in the room. Again I heard the question, "do you love him?" I paused for a moment and said to myself, "yes, I do love him as a person but not for who he is now and has become." As soon as I spoke those words, I felt as if I just had a heavy blanket lifted from me.

It was a few days later when things began to snowball....as if they hadn't been going down a slippery slope already. I found out that our home was going into foreclosure due to non-payment (that I wasn't aware of), my husband had already rented an apartment for himself without my knowledge as well as a myriad of other events that I won't go into. But suffice it to say, it was now definite...divorce was in the works whether I liked it or not.

Working only part time, I began to wonder how I would support myself on just my income. Where would I live if our home couldn't be saved from foreclosure? If I had to go to an apartment what would I do with all the pets? With the economy as it is, would I be able to find a full time job...one that paid well and offered some type of benefit? Would I be able to afford the note on my vehicle? Question upon question raced through my mind & I will admit, a sense of uneasiness began to try and over take me. Stress, anxiety & self doubt tried to rear it's ugly head as well. But GOD.....GOD never failed me. How HE worked things out I do not know but I owe everything I have to HM and thank HIM for where I am now.

As time seemed to tick faster and faster with each passing moment, I can look back over the last year and see the hand of GOD steadily at work in my life and on my behalf. The enemy tried his best to throw road blocks and fiery darts my way but the LORD was my ever present shield. With HIS help I was able to afford to put a down payment on my very own place. Not only did I not have to give up any of my pets, I was a home owner. I was offered the chance to increase my work hours which was a financial blessing for certain. I had relationships restored and some that the LORD removed for good reason. I was able to keep my vehicle and maintain the payments. Life felt as if it were finally going in the right direction & that the gray skies were moving out of the way. I remember my Dad saying to me as a child, "satan won't mess with you as long he thinks your not a threat, but as soon as you start messing up the devil's playhouse, that's when all hell can break out." No truer words of wisdom were ever spoken, because just as things were finally looking up, all hell broke loose. I lost my job, the divorce was finalized, my home had an attempted break in, my savings was dwindling rapidly, one of my beloved pets passed away...it was as if my world was being turned upside down and I had no way to control what was happening.

No matter what it looked like, GOD was still working in the supernatural on my behalf. I couldn't see anything being worked out or how things were going to get better but in GOD'S proper time, things did work out as HE had already planned them to be. During the trials did I stay focused consistently on the LORD and give over all of my reservations, stress, worry to HIM? I won't lie....no, I didn't. There were times that I had the fear of "what if," "how will I ever," "what am I going to do" waive over me. It was the loving support of a very dear friend that help to remind me in what I felt were my darkest hours, that GOD does everything for a reason. One comment that my friend reminded me often was this, "GOD never lets you go through anything alone. He is positioning you for bigger and better things ahead, but you just might not be ready at this point to receive the next thing HE has in store for you. So, until then, just allow HIM to ready you & don't give thought to what you can't control."

Even though I was without work for what seemed like eternity to me, the LORD made sure that I never missed a beat. My bills were paid on time, the mortgage & vehicle notes were never late and I didn't go hungry....heck there were even times when I not only had my meals, I had desert too! GOD will never skimp on HIS children, after all HE is our example of how to be a giver. So why would we think HE would only cast scraps to HIS children?

As I reflect on where I have been to where I am now, I can't imagine how I would have made it without my LORD. It's one thing to have your family & friends supporting you with encouragement, but it's a whole other thing when the One who created the Heavens is working on your behalf. Without HIM....well....I don't even want to try & think about it. I have been blessed in ways that you can't even begin to imagine. As I sit and look around my home, I can't help but feel humbled. Humbled that the LORD gave me not just a roof over my head, but my very own home. I have been blessed with a new full time job that I just love. I am constantly surrounded by those that I hold dearest to me. But most of all, I am so blessed to have a Heavenly Father that I know will never leave me or forsake me.

Today would have marked my 13th wedding anniversary. Do I feel sad or depressed over it? Not at all. I cherish the good times that were had and the things I learned, but in my heart I rejoice at the new beginning I have in my life. When one door closes, the LORD will most definitely open another door. Most times it will be a much better door than what the one you previously walked through. The threshold that I stand before now is one that I will walk through only as long as my Saviour is right there with me. I love the lyric in the Avalon song that says, "I don't want to go somewhere if I know that Your not there." I truly don't want to go anywhere without the LORD.

**Click HERE for Part 1

My Precious Baby Girl Needs Your Prayers

2011-07-06T20:47:00.002-05:00

Spent most of the night in the emergency room with my little girl. Now gotta get her into the regular vet. Please pray for full restoration and healing in her body.

The Verdict Is In....

2011-07-05T13:57:00.001-05:00

This is just my opinion (and I don't expect you to agree with me), but....although I didn't watch the Casey Anthony trial, my prayer is this...if she truly is innocent, then I pray the guilty party is found and justice served for the action. If she is guilty, then GOD will vindicate for the crime commited. It's not up to me to judge anyone, nor rant & rave about the verdict handed. Therefore I will not waste anymore time on it.

Flipping Through The Pages Of A Good Book

2011-07-03T21:58:00.002-05:00

Settling down to my latest read....."Lydia's Charm" by Wanda Brunstetter (my all time favor author)

Out Of The Fire & Into The Son -- Part 1

2011-07-01T20:00:00.008-05:00

It's been awhile since I "really" posted an update on my blog. Yes, I have shared a few quips, tips & other miscellaneous items but nothing to really shake a stick at. As some of you may have noticed, my blog has undergone some changes over the past year or two. As much as one tries to focus on one venue, the road we travel sometimes leads us down a different avenue. Life has a funny way of bringing things to us and from us on a daily basis, but it is up to us to decide how we are going to handle what comes our way.

Nothing in life stays the same and sometimes the more things look like they are the same, that's when we realize how much things are actually changing. We may or may not welcome these changes, but the LORD can & will use any life event to teach us, to train us, to mold us and even restore us. The trials are sometimes bittersweet but nonetheless, we have to look beyond the immediate to recognize the long term value of it. Look at Shadrach, Meschach and Abednigo (Daniel 1-3)....the immediate would look like the fire would consume them, but when the guards looked in and saw four men instead of three and none were bound as when they were initially when they thrown into the furnace, we know that there was a great victory learned. First, there was the visual victory that showed the king that JESUS is bigger than your problem and then there would be the spiritual/inner victory. I would think it safe to assume that the three men felt victorious on the inside knowing that their faith in the LORD during this situation would be a treasured testimony to help them in any circumstance they may encounter in the future as well.

It is only our faith and trust in the LORD that can help us keep our focus on the greater victory while we are enduring what may seem like hell at the moment. It has been my faith, my family and my close friends that have all stood with me through the fire of the past year that have been my saving grace and source of strength. Without these, I honestly don't know how I would have made it...emotionally, mentally or spiritually. For this, and much more I want to say thank you to each and every one of them.

The past year and half has brought about many changes in my life, along with lessons learned. Until now I have not shared much of my personal life in the past, as I did not feel it was pertinent at the time. However, the LORD has prompted me that now is the time to open up a bit. Possibly there is one (or more) of my readers out there that the LORD is going to minister to through my writing, therefore I will follow as the LORD leads.

Years of strain can take a toll on a person(s), but more so the unwillingness of change can break down any relationship...be it a friendship, with co-workers, family or even a marriage. Regardless of the efforts put in by one or the other (sometimes even by both) there are just some things that can not be resolved. It can certainly be disheartening when a relationship comes to a close, but as with anything, there is a time and a season to everything. Just because a relationship ends doesn't mean that you have to dwell on the bad things that became of it or that of the person or persons involved. No matter how bad or tumultuous a relationship becomes, always think back...there was something at one point that drew you to that person to begin with. It's up to us to choose to think on those good things.

Going through the trials and hardship of divorce will open your eyes and your heart to things you never would have dreamed of. Hidden actions can be uncovered...suppressed feelings might be unleashed....secrets can be revealed....words can be tossed around without thought to the consequence or hurt they will cause....tempers may flare....friends may be lost....families torn apart....sides may be taken....rumors and untruths may be spread.... Divorce is not pretty no matter how amicable it is. Regardless of the circumstance and situation set before you, always keep your eyes and heart focused on the LORD. Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. " We won't always know what lies ahead in our journey but if we put our hope & trust in the LORD we know that we will reach the other side of that mountain and that good things will be waiting for us. Will they manifest immediately? To the natural eye, most times not...but in the supernatural...oh boy, GOD has a lot in store for us if we just hold fast.

As I began to embark upon my new life, I realized that I was not the same person I was before. Life has a way of changing people, and truth be known, people have a way of changing us. Sometimes for the better and sometimes...well, not so much. Again, it's all up to us on how we let those changes affect us. However, I had grown quite a bit as an individual. There have been physical changes, emotional changes, spiritual changes, changes in interests, etc. Things that once held me bound during marriage are peeling off layer by layer. Now don't misunderstand, I'm not talking about being bound in marriage by my wedding vows, it's much different & deeper than that. But alas, the metamorphosis is still taking shape. One day as I was sitting on my sofa talking with a friend an old memory was brought to mind that made me smile on the inside. It was a simple little thing, but to me it was huge. As the days and weeks passed, more and more things would come to mind or something would happen to trigger an old feeling or interest I once had before I married. It was at this point I realized that I had lost who I really was because I had to be the person I was 'expected' to be in my marriage. But now, finally...the real me was trying to resurface...and you know what? I like it....I like me...no, I love me & so does GOD. After all, HE created me and formed who I am. So if HE accepts me for who HE made me to be then why shouldn't I be the woman HE purposed me to be?!?

Birthday Sentiment

2011-06-27T17:07:00.002-05:00

(Image source Garden of Praise)
June 27, 1880 - June 1, 1968

Happy Birthday Helen Keller
The impact you made on the world will never be forgotten.

Back In The Day....

2011-06-21T22:19:00.002-05:00

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T01:12:00.001-05:00

Happy Father's Day!!

Historical Beauty

2011-06-17T11:34:00.006-05:00

I just love old, historic buildings. This one certainly is one of my favorites. The architecture is absolutely beautiful!

Happy Flag Day

2011-06-14T09:06:00.001-05:00

Happy Flag Day everyone!! Thanks Gooseberry Patch for this great
celebration picture.

My Daddy's Johnnie

2011-06-12T20:08:00.002-05:00

Ever heard of being "in the dog house?" Well, when Daddy makes Mama mad....he gets sent to the outhouse!!!

Dawn Dishliquid....It's not Just For Dishes Anymore

2011-06-08T05:24:00.003-05:00

The heat of the summer is beginning to boil. Our temperatures the past few days have been hovering around 105* To make matters worse, we haven't had any rain in so long that the ground is cracking and it takes a pick axe just to break it. We desperately need a break in this drought something horrible.

Because of the dry, hot climate the fleas have started to rear their ugly heads & my sweet girls are being targeted. So it was definitely bath time. All I had on hand was oatmeal shampoo which didn't have any flea killer in it. What to do, what to do....

I grabbed my bottle of Dawn liquid dish soap and started their baths. As I lathered my girl up, you could immediately see the fleas beginning to rise to the surface of her fur as if they were looking for a breath of fresh air. Within seconds they were dead.

Once fully lathered I allowed the soap to sit for about 5-8 minutes. If I could find my flea comb this would have been the perfect time to brush through the fur to help aid in finding the hidden fleas. But boy howdy were those nasty pests were dropping dead as quick as you can blink.

Come time to rinse, you could see the dead fleas peppering the bath water. In no way am I saying that using Dawn should replace your regular flea treatment or flea shampoo, nor do I claim that it kills the eggs. But from my personal experience, I am definitely sold on using it.

A Little Catching Up

2011-06-04T06:21:00.004-05:00

Monday, of course, was Memorial Day so what better way to kick off the summer than with a b-b-q. Of course there's nothing like firing up a hot grill in almost 100* weather to put you in the mood to celebrate. However, when it involves food, we'll make the sacrifice!

Last night was graduation for our high school seniors. It was such an honor to watch these young adults walk across the stage to receive their diploma, some of whom you've known since they were youngsters. it was a joyous occasion yet a little saddening as well. When you look across the field and know that some students, that should be there, are missing...it just breaks your heart. Some may be missing due to untimely death, some may have failed to pass while yet some have opted to drop out of school completely (but it's never too late to go back and finish.) It really tugs at your heart. Congratulations to all the 2011 graduates.

To top off the week, I received another Gooseberry Patch book, "5 Ingredient Family Favorites." Not only is this a great book because of the wonderful recipes, but I am a little biased here....it's great because I'm in it! Yes, I am proud to say, I have had another recipe published by GBP. Seriously though, this is a great book. It has a nice section for gift giving ideas that are just great.

Why Buy It

2011-05-27T16:33:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine bought a bottle of this at the Vitamin store the other day. I told him he could have saved the money...I can NAG for free!!

The Cheetos Bandit

2011-05-25T22:20:00.006-05:00

While taking a road trip today we stopped off at a gas station near a wooded area. We had heard that there were racoons living in the nearby woods & that you could lure them out with the sound of a cellophane type noise. So we purchased a bag of Cheetos and sure enough, as we rustled the bag to open it out came a bandit. It was such a peaceful thing to watch as he ate his snack.

Aren't GOD'S creatures adorable!

Middle Aged Texting Codes

2011-05-24T09:00:00.004-05:00

ROFLACGU -rolling on floor laughing and can't get up.

TTYL -talk to you louder!

ATD -at the doctor.

BFF -best friend fell.

BTW -bring the wheelchair.

BYOT -bring your own teeth.

FWIW -forgot where I was.

GGPBL -gotta go, pacemaker battery low.

GHA -got heartburn again.

IMHO-is my hearing aid on?

LMDO -laughing my dentures out.

OMMR -on my massage recliner.

Fresh is Best

2011-05-24T08:35:00.003-05:00

There's nothing better than fresh yard eggs & milk straight from the cow for breakfast!

Thought For The Day

2011-05-15T08:11:00.005-05:00

"A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort."

Can You Guess What's Missing?

2011-05-10T05:11:00.005-05:00

Better hope you don't have an emergency...

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T10:28:00.001-05:00

Happy Mother's Day To My Mom
and all the mother's out there!

Ultimate Dog Tease

2011-05-07T09:07:00.001-05:00

Surprised Kitty

2011-05-07T09:00:00.002-05:00

Knock 'Em Dead...A Review

2011-05-06T22:39:00.002-05:00

"Knock 'Em Dead: The Ultimate Job Search Guide 2011" by Martin Yate, CPC is a great book to read if you are actively seeking employment for the first time or if your looking to change careers. There is a wealth of information in the book on everything from resumes to the actual interview. You will learn how to best present yourself, how to showcase your skills & promote the work that you are able to do.

In the tough economic times we face nowadays, this book is definitely one that should grace your bookshelf for reference. Thanks to Booksneeze for allowing me to read & review this informative book.

The 'Real' King & Queen Of My Home

2011-05-03T12:28:00.004-05:00

Can you tell who rules the house? I just love my babies.

Serene Sunday

2011-04-25T03:09:00.007-05:00

(before my sewing/craft supplies were moved in)

(my favorite room....pink/white/black daybed room....my girlie girl spare bedroom)

Sometimes the most enjoyable pleasures are the simplest of things & today proved true to that. This evening I was finally able to get the time to thoroughly clean (and I do mean clean) and scrub the carpet in my front bedroom. I still have work left to do in there, but it has been transformed into my sewing/craft room. The closet is empty and just waiting for me to organize my crafting supplies and tuck them away in there. Maybe tomorrow I will be able to get that accomplished. My sewing machine is set nicely in front of the window so I can see the great outdoors while I am busy working away on my project of choice. I re-purposed an entertainment cabinet that I had by using it as a storage for my fabrics & other sewing notions. Because it was designed for the large flat panel t.v., it is almost perfect height to use as a fabric cutting table. But since my chair can be lowered, this will work out just fine.

The hall bathroom was in definite need of a deep cleaning, so that was the next project that I tackled. There's nothing better than a clean & fresh bathroom to walk into. I still need to reorganize my linen closet in there but that will be another day. For now, everything else has been scrubbed & wiped down to a sparkling clean shine. Fresh towels and bathmats helped to complete the feel.

Then there's my favorite room...the girlie girl spare bedroom. I decorated it in pink/white/black with the most adorable shabby chic comforter on the daybed. I just love it in there. I want to paint and hang some art work (some of which is on the shelf in the above photo) to really "girl" it up in there. But for today, it was a day of moving things around to vacuum really well. Just laying there on the daybed listening to the sound of quiet...it was the greatest sound of all. It was the sound of a welcomed friend.

I have more spring cleaning to do around my home but for now I am going to savor the work that has been done. Tomorrow is another day and the "to do" list is still growing, but tomorrow is another day!

He Is Risen! Allelujah

2011-04-24T05:27:00.003-05:00

Happy Resurrection Day!

It Might Just Be Me

2011-04-23T01:55:00.002-05:00

The next time you "don't" see a bike on the road...remember, it just could be me that you hit. PLEASE WATCH FOR MOTORCYCLES!

You didnt see me

2011-04-23T01:50:00.002-05:00

A Heavy Move

2011-04-22T08:29:00.003-05:00

Hip Hip Hooray! It's finally moving day!! I'm finally getting the cement laid so I can get my 300-lb bbq pit/smoker moved. It may look small in the pic, but don't let that fool ya....this bad boy takes 3 men to move.