Homekeeping Journal

Various reasons I haven't been updating this blog...

2009-10-14T02:58:00.000-07:00

1. Since the birth of my third child, life has been consumed with the daily duties.

2. Moving into this new home, the Lord has really moved in us to begin to fellowship more often. My time has been spent ministering in "real life" making less time to minister via this blog.

3. As you may have noticed, if you follow our school blog, we have really struggled to implement this new curriculum. This has taken me a lot of time and energy to get that area of our home situated.

In short, although my heart yearns to be reflective and contemplative in a way that might minister to others, my time is limited. I do keep a personal journal on a regular basis and I'd love to share some of these thoughts via this blog.

Although I can't guarantee that I will be updating, somehow I found myself sitting here at 3am. I just felt a prompting to share that I my desire is to continue this blog. We'll see what the Lord has in mind. ;o)

This and that

2009-01-13T14:08:00.000-08:00

We're moving!

I know not many are following this blog, but a long time ago I wrote about the blessing of our home. And, the miracle that God was doing through our landlord putting a new home where this one was at. Well...time went by and it didn't happen. In the meantime, the house got worse and worse and - we couldn't take it anymore! God said it was time to move. So, I began to pray and pray. My exact prayer was "God, blow our minds" because He is amazing like that.

He did.

Beyond anything I ever thought possible.

Isn't that beautiful?

Wow. I can't wait to look at that all the time. Sigh.

The 31st of Jan. is the big moving day.

Anyway, in the meantime Christmas was great. My husband got a dutch oven and he's been out cooking all the time having a great time. Here's some bananna bread I made up and he cooked up.

The recipe called for pennies underneath to let the air flow around it. Isn't that funny?

Hi there...

2008-12-31T14:31:00.000-08:00

Been thinking about opening this blog back up again. I really miss having another outlet to speak my heart. I find myself only writing about kids stuff and/or school. I need a place to just be me. ;0)

SO...I think I'll be writing more here. But, I might keep it sort of on the Down-low, if you know what I mean. It's more for me than anything.

Lots of new thinks to speak about.
Hold tight while I fill you in.

~Mercy

Well, it's obvious I've been gone for awhile...

2008-08-13T17:58:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd stop in to say...

I'm sort of around still.

I've been blogging on school for the past year and I switched curriculums just recently. The one we are using now is the same that we used a few years ago called SOW or Student Of the Word. I am amazed at how God has been using this curriculum to change the atmosphere in our home. Not to mention our hearts. ;-)

Anyway, I'll probably just be posting over at my new blog from now on.

See you there!
~Mercy

My children

2008-05-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

It is obvious through the last post we got a little "off" in our training at some point. The better way to train your children is from the beginning. I am coming from a standpoint of an "older" child who has lost the way. He's getting bigger than me now (oh yes he is...) and spanking him is just not the most efficient way any more, you know what I mean. If I had trained right from the beginning, he would obey promptly - the first time.

Don't get me wrong...he's a great kid!

We've just lost our way a little.

So, this last post was in regard to those who don't know what direction to take from there. I found myself at a loss and started yelling instead of disciplining because I couldn't figure out how to handle this growing boy. God brought me to my knees and reminded me of three very important keys...

1. Humbling myself. Realizing I plenty to be condemned for. This helps me to not condemn my children, but instead help them...instruct, guide and TEACH them.

2. Enjoying my children, playing with them. Finding out what interests them and doing it with them. No doubt if you have a boy ~ bugs, legos, and 'active' stuff is what you'll be doing. :-)

3. Listening to their heart, their thoughts and helping them to correct their thinking even on their own. Giving them freedom to express themselves without feeling like they were going to be in trouble. (At some point we lost that...just being honest here.)

Hope that clears up some thoughts you may have reading the past post.
Thank God for His awesome mercy upon my life.

He is worthy to be praised!!!

Parenting

2008-05-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

This post has been months in the making. It has been difficult to put into words all that I wanted to say, hopefully it doesn't read too choppy. ;-)

Take time to listen.

Do you talk down to, lecture or yell at your children?

I've heard it been called a parent tantrum & I love that term!

Have you ever caught yourself in the mirror while you're in the middle of "disciplining" like this?

Scary!

It is never ok to be cold, mean, bitter or angry at your child.

There is a better way!!

One thing that works really well is...talking.

Communication really is key.

In this case I'm not talking about your really young ones, but you can start small to build your relationship with them.

Ask them questions and expect an intellegent answer.

Instead of, "WHY did you do that to your sister?!?!" Really ask. "Son, can you think about what made you do this?" And, most importantly, expect an answer. If they don't answer right away or say they don't know - dig deeper...much, much deeper. Don't let "I don't know" be the answer. Talk it through. "How would you feel if she did that to you?", "What were you trying to accomplish by doing that?" and "How could you have reacted differently?"

Pro 20:5

Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

There is something very humbling in the eyes of a child. Seeing life through their eyes can do us some good. Listening to their heart is a very important job of a mother...probably the most important.

Our children have been given to us to be cared for. Caring means talking. Discover your children. What makes them think the way they do? Uncover bad thinking and help them work things through.

When I find that my daughter is screaming instead of talking and my son is ignoring instead of talking...it's time for me to get involved in their communication.

When our children have gotten the best of us....
When we have told them over and over and over again to get something done and they STILL haven't done it...
When they are Just. Not. Doing. What. You've. ASKED...
How do we react?
Are we the same as we are when we tuck them in at night?

Is our love conditional?

On the otherhand, we are in charge. It is up to us to take that place of authority. It is hard to not ask them to do something, isn't it? God has convicted me of giving my children too much control and allowing them to make their own decisions. No wonder they struggle with me telling them what to do!

Say a command, say it in love and the best part is doing it... in fun!

"Go make your bed and I'll make mine...we'll see who can do it first!" Most children wouln't agrue or complain in this case. Of course if they do, you may have a bigger problem.

Training them while you are playing is the way it was meant to do! Or let me say this, the more FUN you are as a mom, the more that you enjoy your children and relate to them, the easier it is to train. You have won their hearts and they trust that you "mean them for good."

LET US PUT OUR CHILDREN FIRST!

Take time to play, to talk, to listen AND to train...

Parenting thoughts to live by:

*I cannot give my children what I do not posses myself.

*I will be what I want my children to be, first.

*When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth. ~Author Unknown

I miss blogging.

2008-05-09T21:21:00.000-07:00

I really do.

And, I'll be back someday.

Promise.

Until then...

Priorities

2008-04-01T14:29:00.000-07:00

It is possible to be a stay at home, homeschooling, homemaking mother and still not have your priorities right. It's about your heart. It's about your treasure. One sure way to tell if you have placed things in the right order is to check your joy.

Do you enjoy your life?
Are you thankful for what you have?
Can you laugh when your children laugh?

Or, do you give your children a bath to check it off the list? Get dinner on the table because if you don't everyone will grumble...read a book to your child out of obligation...etc.

Put things into perspective. This is the life you have to live...LIVE IT! To the very fullest possible.

As the weather has been warming up I've had so much fun going out with my children to play. (And nurse in the warm sunshine). It's shaken things up a little. Sometimes doing things outside of a routine gives you a fresh perspective.

Forget about the chores for just a little while.
They will be there when you get back.
Take some time for your children.
...just them.
Give them your full focus.
Then thank God for the life He's given you.

I have disappeared into baby land...

2008-03-07T13:33:00.000-08:00

I'll be back soon.

I have started (and restarted several times) to type up "THE baby story." But, life is busy right now. I promise to be back someday. :-)

By the way...
Yesterday he was 2 weeks and weighed in at 9lbs 11oz!
This boy is GROWING fast!!

Here's my little guy...

2008-02-25T15:33:00.000-08:00

"Big D" as he's become known as.

This picture was taken today.

He's 4 days old.

The labor went FANTASTIC!

I'll tell the story as I get the chance.

He weighed 7lbs 6oz, 19 inches long

And...ahem...4 1/2 inch biceps. LOL.

Born: February 21st, 2008 @ 7:16am

I'm off to cuddle with my newbie!!

I promise I won't be gone forever. :-)

He has to come eventually!

2008-02-12T16:58:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe he's not here yet. My other two children both were due on the 5th and came on the 20th (the month before). This baby is just holding out. :-)

Anyway, in the meantime I wanted to post about the fact that I WON!

This is the second time I've won over at Bloggy Giveaways and I'm feeling pretty lucky. What did I win you ask?? A $50 gift certificate to Kangaroodle. Isn't that fun?

Oh man, my picture isn't working.

Well, anyway...I got my package in the mail today and I wanted to show you what I was able to get. :-)

Oh well. Here's the cutest thing I got - A Giggle Elephant!! My daughter is having a blast hanging out with "boingy" as she named him. They have some very different things in their store. Take a moment and check them out if you'd like.

Just wanted to share and to update you on my status of - no baby yet.
I'll let you know when he comes...

Still. No. Baby.

2008-02-05T09:40:00.000-08:00

Could be anytime though!!

In the meantime, remember when I said we had LOTS to do to get baby's room ready? Slowly, slowly things have been coming together. I wish I had a before picture...it was as NON-BABY of a room you could think of. Cold linoleum floor with bunches of piles of junk everywhere. Well, we were out in this room for awhile, but when we moved out, I started to just pile everything I wanted out of the house in this little space - Christmas stuff, old clothes, bunkbed that we tore apart, etc.

We still have no curtains. Well, I have some I could throw in there, but I'd like to get some nice ones at some point. But, all in all - we have carpet and a bed. Baby has clothes, diapers and some fun stuff too!

Without further adieu...
Here's my little oasis for my son & I:

His empty bed. Can't wait to meet my little baby boy!!!!!

I took these pictures this past weekend. I've added a few things to make it a little more cozy. And, a few practical things as well. All in all, things are coming together.

It won't be long now!!

I'm here, I'm here.

2008-01-29T19:26:00.001-08:00

No baby yet.

I'm just taking a bloggy break while my mind swirls about on baby things. As I mentioned before baby's room wasn't quite ready - well, it's getting there little by little. And, things are coming together in God's perfect timing. It's amazing how I keep remembering things that I really should have prepared already for, simple but fairly important things - like the little head support thing for the carseat. I completely spaced that we needed that thing. I am using my old car seat from when my daughter was a little itty bitty one. Thankfully it's not pink. :-)

But, I'm just busy getting prepared right now.
My body keeps giving me small reminders that it could be any day.

Just wanted to stop in to say no baby yet.
I'll let you know as soon I can after he comes.

See you after awhile!

35 Weeks???

2008-01-21T15:43:00.000-08:00

I have been telling everyone I'm at 36 weeks. Oops. I really thought I was a week ahead. Well, no baby - yet. I have been having a nice flux of contractions (mostly back stuff) and I can feel things are getting ready to go if you know what I mean.

I'm only maybe 5 minutes away from the hospital. We haven't timed it yet. (seemed much longer than 5 minutes when we drove there to register the other day) But, the funny thing is I keep getting worried I'm not going to make it. Or, my water is going to break and I will have hard labor on the way and baby will be born in the parking lot of the hospital.

Hey, it could happen.
My other two labors were fairly quick, so...

Anyway, I just thought I'd check in to say - no baby yet. But, it could be soon...very soon. I'll check back in to give a report of how everything went after it's all said and done.

See you then!

Ultrasound

2008-01-10T12:04:00.000-08:00

Had a dr's appointment yesterday and another ultrasound. Everything is perfect! No problems at all - he's set in the right position, he has no water in the kidneys and no problems with the placenta. We're all set to go. He's at about 5.4lbs right now. :-)

Now, onto the fun stuff.

Here are some pictures of the baby!!

I took a picture of the sonagram picture. They are both from the same picture (I took a few pictures of it to get a good one), but it's amazing! You can (if you look real hard) see his nose and his lips!!! Isn't that cool?!?!

With both of these ultrasounds, he has hidden his face with his hands. (that's what that thing is up above his nose - his hand blocking his face) and this time we caught him playing with his feet. Isn't that cute?

And, we found out...he's got hair. :-) She showed us how it was flapping in the amniotic fluid. It was so neat. Can't wait to see him!!

Speaking of that, he dropped down on Monday. Dr wasn't worried about that at all. He did a "check" and he's doing just fine. He expects I should make it at least until the 36th week, which is about the "safe" zone. He said unless I start having some real hard contractions, I'm doing a-ok.

Looking back on this pregnancy...

2008-01-08T08:34:00.001-08:00

**WARNING: This post is extremely long! I just wanted to make sure I don't forget. :-)

I can't believe this pregnancy is almost over!!

We've still got a lot to do to prepare, but most of it is not really for me to do. We are sort of "remodeling" an extra room for the baby and we're missing some valuable parts. So, I'm praying that we can get that done before the big day comes. There is also the issue that we have been using this room as a storage (or a temporary storage until we can send it out to the shed). Normally I would have moved these things, but many of them are too large for me and the shed has gotten WAY too cluttered as my son has been throwing things in there this past year. So, it's really not safe for me in my pregnant state.

With all of this, surprisingly I've got a lot of peace. I wish we could get it all done, I am praying that baby's room will be totally ready for him, but if it doesn't happen, it doesn't happen. I'm just not sure where to direct my nesting instincts. I have been trying to get through school, so that I can shut the books without guilt when baby comes. That's about the only thing that I feel like I can do right now. So, that's what I'm doing.

Yesterday the baby dropped. So, I know I'm getting closer and closer each day. I figure so long as we have some clothes for the baby to wear and diapers, we should be fine - right?

Anyway, I've been thinking back on this pregnancy and just wanted to touch on some of the highlights:

I had MEGA "morning" sickness the first few months. I was super picky and the best place for me to eat (if it would have been feasible to do for every meal!) was a buffet. Because I never knew from one minute to the next what would stay down. S L O W L Y my nausea decreased. And about that time, I cut out milk completely. With both of my other two children one thing that always seemed to go down was milk and cereal...not this baby!

So, admittedly I switched to waffles. Rarely did I make them by hand. This was actually one of the most quirky things about my pregnancy - for the longest time I was eating (immediately when I woke up!) a waffle with butter and syrup, then about an hour or so later I was craving (every day!) eggs & cheese. So, I usually would eat a quiche of some kind. Sometimes a breakfast burrito, or biscuit made by my super egg maker stud husband. :-) But, it was for MONTHS I ate the same old thing every single day. It worked. When I didn't eat it, I would vomit or at least be uncomfortably nauseous. One day I was at Trader Joes where we have been doing a lot of our shopping during this pregnancy, and right next to each other were the frozen waffles and frozen quiches that I was buying regularly and I seriously thought for that moment that I would never be back to normal again.

But, here within the last several weeks I haven't been having any waffles!! (those made me feel so guilty - I rarely eat FROZEN waffles!) I still like the eggs & cheese, but I can actually have other things for breakfast - usually fruit, yogurt or oatmeal. It's so nice to not have maple syrup as a dietary need now. I still can't drink milk or maybe I'm just afraid to. Sometimes I have a craving for it, but then the thought of it makes me cringe. Hopefully I can go back to that later on in life.

Oh, about the same time I cut out milk, I also cut out meat. That was a hard one! I just could not eat it. I would try, and it just wouldn't go down. Slowly I was able to eat red meat first, then chicken. That was a little strange. And, it was scary without milk and meat thinking I might not be getting the protein needed. But, with my daily eggs & cheese, plus nuts (including peanut butter), yogurt, etc. it all worked out.

(edited: to mention another strange eating habit I had- I could not eat wheat bread. For the VERY first time in my entire life - I wanted white bread. It was softer and sweeter and it had to be squished down in order to eat it too. I know, very strange. I am happy to report that wheat bread is my preferred choice again. In fact, white isn't even appealing anymore. But at one point, ugh, wheat made me gag - just the thought of it would make me feel yucky. YAY, that whole part of pregnancy is OVER!!!)

I have not been very hormonal (as when I had my little girl) I honestly think part of it is that I am carrying a boy. Call me strange if you'd like, but with both of my boys I have been very balanced. I think a lot more reasonably than when I did when I had my little girl. I was VERY emotional with her. With both of my boys I've noticed I am a lot more "kick-back" about things.

My house has seen much better days! The two things that seemed to suffer the most (I'm not sure why exactly) were my car - which still hasn't had a good scrub for months and months and my pantry which also went WAY too long - if it wasn't for my Superman coming to the rescue a week ago, it may just still be that way.

Speaking of my hunk of a husband, he has been dreamy and has spoiled me beyond necessary. I'm embarrassed because of the way he's helped and catered to me. Many, many many times he's made meals and done dishes. I actually have hated my kitchen during this pregnancy. I think there are just too many smells - good and bad, that just turned me off of being in there. It was too much for me to handle. So many times too, I'd unload the dishwasher and I couldn't load it. So, Superman came to my rescue.

I am overwhelmed with the blessing my husband has been to me.

I have to give credit to my son as well, who has made many trips to get my bible or tums whichever the need of the moment was. He also helped me during the beginning of my pregnancy when I couldn't step foot in the kitchen - to turn on the oven, sometimes got a snack of string cheese for me, etc. Not to mention all the help and sacrifice of eating unhealthy while I avoided cooking at all costs. Yeah, that was quite a sacrifice for him...I'm sure. No, but he stepped up to help with his sister as he was able to as well. He really has been very helpful to me in this time.

My daughter seemed to grow too, she can now dress herself. :-) When we started, she wasn't able to do that. I am going to have to take back that kitchen though, because she is a little young to take a chair in there in order to find out what we can have for lunch. I also switched to pull-ups, which I was dead set against, while she is potty training. She is about 85% potty trained and that other 15% is not fun to deal with. So, instead of constantly washing underoos, I decided to allow her to wear the pull-ups. Oh well.

We have watched way too many movies within this pregnancy. (when I say a lot, I mean more than one per month!) Considering we don't have a TV, we have vegged out a little too much for my comfort. My brain could only handle so much reading for some reason during this pregnancy, so we found other things to do together.

I also have to mention how tired I have been during this pregnancy. It has gone in waves, but most of the pregnancy I needed at least one nap. Occasionally (in the beginning especially) I needed one in the morning - where I'd just have my littlest sit on my bed and read while my older was reading on his own in his room. I just have to say I am thankful I only have two with that sort of tiredness...I could not imagine having a houseful and being so exhausted. My prayers are with those of you in that situation.

Another interesting thing is now that I'm at the end of this pregnancy I keep thinking about my weight. (I am really not the type to be overly obsessed about my weight just to let you know) I haven't gained a whole ton, but I have gained more than I'd like to have. Especially in my thighs & bottom. So, this past month I've been trying to tone myself a little by doing leg lifts. Walking is out of the question for me, as it always causes me to have contractions. But, I found that just laying in bed and doing some leg lifts has helped me to feel better about myself. :-)

As you can tell, this is a bit of a humbling post. But, I am being honest with you. Life has been hard and I have compromised a lot. That's just how I coped. I'm sure after the baby has been here for awhile we'll be back to normal, especially in our eating habits. We try to eat as naturally as possible, but that's more difficult when you are eating the prepackaged type stuff.

Anyway, if you've stuck with reading this long I'm amazed. I am trying to cram a whole pregnancy worth of topics into one post. I'm sure there are things I am missing here that I want to remember. Oh, like feeling the baby. Isn't that the most amazing thing!?! He's getting bigger and when he dropped yesterday somehow it made it so that his foot can stretch right under my ribs, ouch! But, I love being pregnant. (ok, I love the feeling the baby part of being pregnant, some of the other parts...)

Thanks for reading. :-)

2008 - My Word!

2008-01-06T17:24:00.000-08:00

I know, the year has begun already and some may be tired of hearing the same ol thing about "bringing in the new year" with goals and resolutions. But, I just read this and it resonated within me to bring myself into focus for the year.

It is such a neat concept!

Here's how it works, you pick one word to remind you of your intention for the year.

You will need to read more about it here, because she explains it much better than I can.

So, what's my word?

PASSION!

Somehow in my life (in all areas of my life) I have found myself entirely too complacent. My fire and flame has dwindled. I want to be more alive. I want to be willing to go beyond my comfort zone, because I desire something beyond the norm. I want zeal again!

Passion for Jesus.
Passion for the lost.
Passion for my family.
Passion for life.

What do you think?
Can you think of a word that would sum up your desire for this year?

(My second choice would be hope, because this past year I have learned a lot about the importance of hope in my life. Or surrender because without giving everything you have to give, there is no purpose in life. Or...Ok, I'll just stick with my word I chose. lol.)

Care to join?
If so, please share!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T15:31:00.000-08:00

I love this post.

Why does God call us to submit?

2007-12-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

First of all, because He created us and He created an order in marriage that really does work. When we follow the plan and we allow our husbands to lead. (even and especially when we don't fully agree with where our man is going). If we will just surrender everything (our desires, fears, etc.) to Jesus, pray fervently and with a willing heart tell our husbands we're following - then are very careful in our speech otherwise - It works! Not only does this cause our husbands to be a leader at home, but also in his work & social life, etc. So many times I see women who know their husbands role and spout off that "he's just not leading like he's supposed to" Yet, it could be (as a dear friend put it) he is leading (or trying!), they are just not following because they don't like where he's leading them and I'm sure they let him know. My advise to us women is to focus ONLY on our position and mastering that. We can only change ourselves anyhow so why waste energy on what HE needs to be doing?

It is disastrous to work against your marriage and the way God has ordained it to function. It only brings heartache. We have to be FOR our husbands and cheer him on, regardless of the difficulties he may be having in any area of his life. Especially if he's struggling, make a vow to never tear him down or "show your disappointment" of how he's not doing well. Just allow him to be his best and strengthen him with words. Can his heart trust in you? It's on us ladies to create an atmosphere where he will trust us with his heart. I've noticed the more I submit to my husband, the more willing he is to hear my opinion.

Another thing that has been on my mind recently and why I think we can struggle so much in this area, is that we spend an entire day in a place of authority. We need to make sure we have control over our children and that they are following our lead. So, here comes Mr. Macho after we've been trying to "command the household" all day long and he wants things to go another way...

This is again another great example of why and how God created things the way He did. Doesn't it bring such a wonderful balance! God wants us not only to learn how to be in authority, but also how to follow. After all, submitting to your husband is a wonderful and visible extension of submitting to the Lord Himself.

Let's be willing to love and uplift our husbands. And, when it boils down to it - to fear the Lord. After all, "a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised." When I stand before the King of kings, I want to hear Him say to me "well done faithful servant" and that is my duty above all duties - to be a helpmeet to my man.

How about you?

Our New Christmas Tradition

2007-12-26T12:58:00.000-08:00

Christmas growing up was nothing special. We did the present thing and that was about it. Maybe that's why I've been so driven to make sure Christmas is about Christ. The last few years on Christmas eve, we've gathered by the light of the Christmas tree to read the "Christmas story" in the Bible. And, I have to say, after you talk about the true meaning of Christmas - bringing Santa in afterward just doesn't work. So, we just leave him out. :-) We've always told our children he's pretend, so it's ok to pretend there is a Santa. And we leave it at that. Anyway, the other day Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer hosted her Works for me Wednesday - Christmas Edition and I found a great idea - Giving Jesus a present!

What do you give Him?

It all depends. We made it personal to each of us. We did decide that giving him our problems and burdens was actually a good gift because it sets us free to show Him in our lives. I can see that what we put in the box to give to God, we will think on for the year.

I think this one will last for our lives and it will give us some really wonderful reading as we look back on the years. I am so thankful for this new - found tradition & I wanted to share with others so they may be blessed as well.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T15:35:00.000-08:00

Thought you might like to meet us.

This was the best picture I could get of the picture. :-)

This picture was on our Christmas card this year.

We have had such a wonderful Christmas this year.

I hope you and your family did as well.

~~~~~Merry Christmas~~~~~

~~~~~~~~~Mercy~~~~~~~

Christmas Miracle

2007-12-20T11:21:00.000-08:00

Last night I heard the analogy about our own personal Christmas day.

You know...

The day that Jesus was born in YOUR heart.

Isn't that so neat?

Have you invited Him in yet?

Tell Him you need Him and He'll gladly come to your side. Ask Him to forgive you and your sins will be washed away. He loves you. Make today be your first personal Christmas.

Amazing what a new bible will do!

2007-12-13T18:00:00.001-08:00

I got me a new bible!!!

It was sort of a celebration purchase since God returned our check to us. I am still in awe with thanks for that whole thing.

Anyway, what Bible did I get?

This One

Just a regular ol bible.

I'm so happy with it. I've been marking it up like crazy & making it my own. I'm highlighting certain things like I've done with my past bibles. Like: Blue =Salvation, Orange = Prayers, Yellow=Praise, etc. I've always been an underliner in all of my bibles.

SO, I'm just working through the psalms, proverbs & the new testament for awhile. Proverbs I'm just doing "the day" that corresponds to the chapter. As for psalms and the new testament I have just started at the beginning. So far I've just done about a chapter or so of each each day. They are usually pretty short so it's been working out perfectly.

I'm so happy to have a bible that works for me again!!

World Clock

2007-12-10T17:05:00.000-08:00

This is very interesting.

How sad that the abortion rate is higher than the rate of marriage. That's all I have to say.

Praises to God!!!!!!

2007-12-10T15:54:00.000-08:00

Yay!!!!

It came!
IT CAME!!!!

We honestly were losing hope. To remind you of what in the world I am talking about, click here. We had lost our rent and didn't expect to get it back. We went ahead and paid the landlord again and just expected that we would "work it out" as we could. Christmas was looking a little bleak, but hey - it's not all about gifts, right? :-)

I am so thankful. I opened the mailbox today and there it was staring right at me- the missing envelope. Oh I could jump for joy!! YAY!!

I just wanted to let you all know the awesome news. And give God glory. And say thank you to everyone who may have said a prayer for our family. There were lots of waves of doubt as we heard story after story telling us how they had lost mail and never found it again, how a mailman in our town had been taking mail awhile back and how thieves can "white wash" (or essentially wash in the washing machine) checks to cash them. Yeah. So, we had some moments that tested our faith. But, praise God - He is SO faithful!!

Thank you again for everyone who lifted up our circumstance.

Prayer Request

2007-12-07T09:34:00.001-08:00

If you are willing to lift a situation up for us, we would be very appreciative.

Somehow our rent has been lost in the mail. Our landlord called on Monday & asked if there was a problem since he hadn't received our rent & we've always been punctual. Well, we have been hounding heaven since then for our money orders (yes, no stop payment or refund here) to show up either at our home or his P O Box.

My husband lost the receipt & we paid cash for the money order (which means there is NO record.) We told our landlord if it didn't show by today that we would go ahead and pay him rent again. We were REALLY hoping it would show. But, so far - no.

If you are able could you please just lift our situation up before the Lord.

Thank you faithful ones.
God bless you.

Still in 2nd Kings?

2007-12-05T23:10:00.000-08:00

As you may have noticed, I'm having Bible issues. There are a lot of ~~excuses~~ reasons why. Part of it has to do with the fact that I don't really like my bible that I was SO happy about before. It's falling apart (which is not uncommon for my bibles to do, but it seemed to happen way too quick) so it's a pain to read. I've found since I've been pregnant I haven't wanted to read anything for some reason - my attention span has been seriously lacking. And, on and on.

Really I am reading daily. Just slowly and I've been doing some jumping around in my study as well, which messes up my "tracking" of where I'm at in the Bible.

I'm hoping actually to buy a new Bible soon. I am going to go back to my old style of the compact type and not hard bound. It's so much easier to tote it around & snuggle up to read. I miss that.

I just wanted to assure you that God is still speaking to me.

Oh and I am still working on memorizing Psalm 91. No one has really challenged me & I keep forgetting to work on it. But, little by little I have been hiding God's word in my heart.

WOW! This is cool!!

2007-12-05T18:04:00.001-08:00

Build your vocabulary & feed the hungry.
http://www.freerice.com/

Check it out at Snopes!

Good video series...

2007-12-02T23:26:00.000-08:00

These are about some of the roots that music of this age is all about...

***They Sold Their Souls For Rock and Roll:
this is part one
You will need plenty of time to watch this, but it is really good! After you watch part one, just click on part two. Tells a bit of history from Elvis on in up to Santana. Very eye opening!

The Truth About Hip Hop:
Here you go
This one is more of a sermon, but it's interesting. It's almost two hours. Hang with it, because it gets really interesting when he reveals specific people & clothing lines.

***Edited to say:
Not for children's eyes!
I completely forgot to mention this. I would recommend adults only watch the Rock & Roll one. My only exception would be if you happen to have a young adult who is wayward & really into music, etc. This video is VERY eye opening!!

Being Alive...

2007-12-02T23:05:00.001-08:00

Isn't awesome to know we have another breath?

We don't know if we get another one.

Are we doing all we need to be doing?

...all we should be doing?

...all we WANT to do?

(after all it is God who puts desires on our hearts, right?)

We have been set free from the bondage of sin. When you are born again you are more alive than you could have ever been before. God lets us experience life with open eyes, fresh perspective and a joy unknown to those outside His love and presence.

Thank God for the life He's given you.

Then, ENJOY IT!!

Take time to reflect today on all the blessings you have, including your heart - which is still beating. Do something a little cookey today, just to shake things up around you. (not to mention lighten yourself up a little too!) Allow your plans to be taken by God. Let Him give you His agenda and throw away your to do list. :-)

Today is a gift.
Receive it with open arms.

Last week & this week

2007-11-26T09:36:00.000-08:00

As you can tell, I'm just updating as the week goes along. Hopefully it's not too annoying for you!

Tuesday ~Working on my list slowly. I checked off those that I've done. I also put a big dent in the "toy area." Today I should finish up the kitchen & laundry area. :-)

Wednesday~ My main focus is working on school and getting us ready for church tonight. Thankfully I got my dishes, laundry and bathroom done. I'm just making it all sparkly and sanitized today. As you can tell my home needed a major overhaul. My main goal is to get my list done by Friday before we leave. Hope you have a wonderful day!! (btw, our Christmas pictures turned out SO good! I am SOO happy to have that DONE!)

Thursday~ We're leaving earlier tomorrow that I expected, so I'd like to be ready by tonight. I highlighted the most important tasks left. I guess we'll wait to start Christmas until after we're back. We're also working very hard on school in the mist of this. I'm trying to get to a point that we can completely be off for a Christmas break this month. So today we're just working on school and getting prepared for our trip basically.

Don't know if I'll be able to update tomorrow...

Friday~Well, we're off today! Thanks for joining me as I got my home back in decent order. My home is all ready to start into Christmas when we get back. YAY! We have gotten a lot of schooling done this week, even with all the other work I've done. I actually spent a lot of time finishing the toy area and working on school/art supplies yesterday too. It feels so good to have things organized again!!! Kids room is all ready for some sort of storage unit so that we'll have a place to store some of the new things. (I've gotten rid of A LOT!) I'm packing this morning - it will be easy since everything is all clean! And before we leave we'll measure the kids wall and pick up a gift for mil on the way. It feels GREAT that I got most of my list done!!

Have a great weekend everyone!!

--ORIGINAL POST--

Thanksgiving went WONDERFUL!

It all turned out so great!! I was really glad that I had it at my parents so I didn't have to worry about getting my home spotless, plus their kitchen is much larger with more utensils to work with. I kept it really simple and most of it was prepared by 9:30, so I had plenty of time to enjoy the day. The older woman we invited over is a fairly new convert and we had some great fellowship. She has a degree in geology so we discussed (what little I know of) the young earth philosophy. She said she has a hard time with it. I have a very limited understanding, so I just gave her what information I know and encouraged her that God is faithful to answer our questions so we can be at peace. Thankfully she said she is at a point now that she's SURE that Jesus Christ died for her sins and knowing how old the earth is is no longer a decision maker or breaker about being a Christian.

Anyone have any good resources for me to direct her to?

It was so nice to spend a few days with my sweet husband. He let me use his muscles to move our bed into our new room. That has been such a project. We've been slowly moving toys and junk from what we called the "super room" so that my hubs & I could move into there. We got rid of a lot of things, but we still have a pile of toys in our living room that I'm anxious to get out of here. We didn't finish moving our entire bed room yet, there's still a dresser, etc. in the old room. We plan to make that baby's room. :-)

Which brings me to this week...

I am VERY overwhelmed with all that I have going on this week. One of which is to finish this project of switching rooms. The toys in the living room will be going into the children's room. This weekend we're going out of town (near sacramento) and I'm planning to go to IKEA to hopefully purchase some sort of storage solution for the children's toys. Which means I need to make sure the kids room is ready for that. Hub's needs to take apart 7yo's bed for me and we need to measure the wall before we go. We also need to buy a gift for my MIL. And pack, obviously.

I'm behind on my regular chores which makes packing more difficult. My laundry area and kitchen both need a major overhaul! Once I get that done and my home looks a little more decent, I'm hoping to bring in the Christmas tree and start decorating. We bought the Jesse tree ornaments with the devotional from Jesse-trees.com and I'm really anxious to begin that. We have an appointment tomorrow to get our pictures done at a local costume shop! Isn't that a great idea?? I just happen to drive by the other day and saw that they do pictures, so I decided to check it out. They have VERY reasonable prices, so that's what we'll be doing this year. I think it will be fun. I like to do pictures because that way I don't have to think too much about what to write to everyone. :-)

I have my midwife/doctor issue that I need to deal with this week.

For some reason, we've decided to take another trip in December. It's going to be a surprise trip to San Fransisco for my son's birthday. God has blessed us with some extra finances (I am SOO thankful for that during this time of year!!!!) and because my almost 8yo has never seen the ocean and hasn't really ever been on a good trip, we've decided to "just do it!" With that, we have some planning to do. We're trying to make it as inexpensive as we can get. So far we're planning a trip to the jelly belly factory (free!), driving around SF looking at lights, etc. and bbqing on the beach. Anyone else know of anything else we could do?

And somehow in the middle of all of this (plus more!) I need to keep schooling.

Deep breath...
Inhale...
Exhale...
Aahhhhh......

Thank You Jesus for taking my burdens. Please help me to have peace, knowing that You will direct me. Amen.

Here's my list:

Get caught up on :
~~Dishes~~
~~Laundry~~

Misc.:
~~Finish cleaning baby's room~~

~~Pick up bathroom~~
~~Pickup Living room~~
~~Clean & Sanitize~~

Get out Christmas stuff
Put up Christmas tree
Decorate Home

~~Research on SF trip~~
Make plans & reservations

*Get packed for this weekend
*Buy gift

*Measure kids room for storage

~~Call midwife~~
Make apt with dr.
(putting this one off...)

~~Picture apt. (tues.) - TODAY~~
~~hub's dr. apt. (fri.)~~

Keep working on School
(we have done SO good on this!!)

Need Hub's help:
~~Move baby's bed~~
Put baby's bed together
*Take down son's bed
*rearrange kids room

Sorry this post was so long...
It just sort of happened. :-)

Thanksgiving

2007-11-20T12:20:00.000-08:00

Here's my meal plan:

Turkey
Stuffing
Mashed Potatoes
Gravy
Green Bean Casserole
Biscuits
Pumpkin Pie

Hors D'oeuvres & Appetizers
Still deciding on those.

I'm going to look for one fun recipe to include.
Got anything easy? (maybe a snack type thing??)

Our dear sister from church
will bring the following:

Cranberries
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Stuffed Mushrooms
Salad
Cider

She really wanted to make these. I tried to tell her that it was way too much, but she insisted.

Am I missing anything here??

And life comes crashing down...

2007-11-15T12:37:00.000-08:00

I just sat and wrote 2 pages of to do's and questions I have going on right now. Including the following list:

Homeschooling
Midwife/Doctor issue
Thanksgiving
weekend trip, mil birthday gift
Christmas
Son's 8th birthday
baby prep.

I tried to break it down so that I could actually begin to deal with some of this stuff! We have put off Christmas totally (not unlike us!!) so it will all come down at crunch time. I'm taking on for the very first time a thanksgiving dinner, of course I'm pregnant (just in case you didn't know here) and I don't know what I'm thinking. I am trying to figure out the best way to handle the news I found out from the ultrasound. I can see now (after writing a bit out) what I can do to keep up with our schooling at least for the next few weeks. I have a feeling I'll be working SLOWLY through the holiday's. Hopefully I won't need too much of a break with baby, but hey if I do I do, right?

I could go on. But, you get the point. My brain was crashing. :-)

Lists are a wonderful tool though I'm telling you. I feel very refreshed after putting it all down in an organized fashion so that I can actually get to the point I can DO something about some of these things.

How are your holiday's coming along? Just don't make it sound like you're too organized or else I might not want to be your friend anymore. I am SO just joking there. I do sincerely hope that you have your holidays together more than I, because I don't wish this anguish on anyone. Thankfully I have Jesus to keep me in line!!

Baby update

2007-11-14T11:44:00.000-08:00

I am at 25 weeks. Talking to my husband today I realized I still have somewhere around 3 whole months! That's longer than I thought. I'm getting anxious. :-)

So, I got an ultrasound.

And...

As suspected -

IT'S A BOY!

Everyone is excited. It's so nice to get that confirmation when you already KNOW what it is, but there are thoughts of doubt floating around occasionally. Anyway, we're all excited. (And, that might be why I'm getting anxious now.)

And, I have some other news I found out from the ultrasound.

1.) He's breech. (I'm just going to assume -and believe - that he'll switch before labor)

2.) There is water on/in his kidney (hope I'm saying that right. They said it was pretty common for boys to have this)

3.) I've got placenta previa. (I'm pretty sure this is what I had with my daughter. I was on bed rest most of the pregnancy with lots of precautions. And, she was coming early. These are all the signs and probably what will be the case with this one too.)

So... I need to be extra careful.

I have to say, even before I got the ultrasound I knew. I could tell there were a few times I was overdoing it. Last Saturday I woke up and we have been doing some re-arranging to get a good place for baby. (and to just get a little control over our space before Christmas, etc.) I wasn't doing any heavy lifting, but I was doing a lot of work picking up, etc. Then we went to a house warming party where there were so many people chairs were limited, so I found myself standing a majority of the time. Afterward we went to our Super Walmart. About halfway through I started saying that I needed to find a bench to sit at. We were at a different one than we normally shop, so I couldn't seem to locate any for some reason. As we went along I kept feeling worse and worse. Finally my husband disappeared and then re-appeared with one of those motorized carts. At first I fought with him about it. I didn't want to appear lazy or whatever, but I have to say the moment I sat down I felt such a relief and the longer that I sat in that cart the more I realized how much I had really overdone it.

This weekend was SO busy (even up to Monday when my sister in law came to visit with her two girls). But, yesterday and today I have felt like I'm regressing in my pregnancy. (I know there's obviously no such thing, but this feels like 1st trimester stuff) I am tired BIG TIME again and hungry, yet really picky about what I want. I thought this part was over for some reason. I guess it ain't over, till it's over. :-)

so, that's the latest in my pregnancy ups and downs.

Almost everyone in bloggyville is either pregnant or has a new baby it seems. How fun!

Memorizing Scripture

2007-11-07T09:29:00.000-08:00

You all have been so sweet with all the comments! I just want to say thank you for making me feel like I'm not alone when I go into "veg mode" from thinking too much or whatever it is that causes it. :-)

In the meantime I've decided to memorize some scripture. Actually a whole psalm. I did it once before and it blessed me beyond what I knew it would. I saw (and still see) that piece of scripture in such a new light. Last time I memorized Psalm 19. This time I am working on Psalm 91. So far I only have the first verse memorized. It takes a lot of effort for me to memorize things. I actually challenged my family to see who could do it first, but I'm nervous that they will out do me since they (my husband & son) are so sharp. I'm the only one practicing aloud so far. I think I may take some time to work with my son, but he picks up so quickly he'll get it much faster than I.

Any one else up for the challenge?

I'm memorizing it in NKJV because it just always seems strange to talk to someone else in the King James Version. Like if the scripture comes to mind when I'm trying to encourage a new convert and I bust out some "thees and thous" it just feels funny. Maybe it's because I've used the NKJ most of my walk with God. I prefer the KJV, but memorizing just works best for me to be in NKJ. You can memorize whatever works for you if you'd like to join me of course.

Here's the NKJV Psalm I'm working on.

Psalm 91
Safety of Abiding in the Presence of God

1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.”
3 Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler[a]
And from the perilous pestilence.
4 He shall cover you with His feathers,
And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler.
5 You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,
Nor of the arrow that flies by day,
6 Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness,
Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
7 A thousand may fall at your side,
And ten thousand at your right hand;
But it shall not come near you.
8 Only with your eyes shall you look,
And see the reward of the wicked.
9 Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge,
Even the Most High, your dwelling place,
10 No evil shall befall you,
Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
11 For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.
12 In their hands they shall bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.
13 You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra,
The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.
14 “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;
I will set him on high, because he has known My name.
15 He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will deliver him and honor him.
16 With long life I will satisfy him,
And show him My salvation.”

I know I don't have any readers, but...

2007-11-05T15:48:00.000-08:00

I'm asking anyway.

Is it really valid for me to be so tired when it's only from emotions? What I mean is when I'm just emotionally overloaded and my body does not want to move and my mind is numb, is there a way to stay motivated? I can barely make it through the mundane tasks. I really just want to sit and stare at a wall. Sometimes I allow myself to do just that. No one died. There's nothing horrific going on here, just a few decisions. Nothing big. But, they seem to take every ounce of energy I have. Is that really strange? And, does anyone have any suggestions to cope during times like this?

Just thinking outloud here.
Any thoughts back?

Vision Forum Giveaway

2007-10-24T19:43:00.000-07:00

EDITED: I am re-submitting for a NEW giveaway that Life In A Shoe is having. This time the bar is raised & I get to choose up to $250 worth of items!!

Ok, I've had so many things on my mind I have wanted to blog about, but haven't had a chance to do it. Too many things pulling me in too many directions.

Yet, here I am blogging on yet another giveaway opportunity.

"Hello, my name is Mercy and I'm addicted to blogging giveaways."

This is the part where everyone goes: clap, clap, clap. "welcome Mercy"

But really though, I actually won ONE time and now I'm hooked!
(edited to say I have won twice. Sorry for the exaggeration there.)

I don't have the time to do this, but here goes...

I got my catalog in the mail & I remembered what Kim wrote on her blog here about if I post a wish list I could have the opportunity to WIN those items. And, well...who can pass that up?

The biggest problem is picking and keeping it under ~~$150~~ NOW $250!! Can I do it?? Let's see...

So, here's my wishlist:
1. Passionate Housewives Desperate for God $16 (p6)
2. A Church in the House $12 (p21)
3.Culture Changers Video Curriculum $199 (p43)
4. Raising Maidens of Virtue $20 (p25)

Grand Total = $247

That was much harder than I thought it would be. EVEN HARDER THE SECOND TIME AROUND!!! I learned a lot though about what the Vision Forum has to offer. I certainly hope I win with all the coveting I had to do. ;-)

If you are interested in this opportunity, check it out over at Life In A Shoe.

Connecting

2007-10-16T06:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I wrote something on my homeschool blog that had me up in the middle of the night convicted to my core. My son & I had a life (and heart) changing conversation, one that could alter his entire walk with God. And, yet as I wrote about it I was more concerned with "the schedule" of our curriculum than I was about the Spirit of God moving in my midst!

There is nothing more important than souls. Nothing. My children's soul is especially important to me. If I put more emphasis on all that I have to do, instead of being attentive to the the spiritual state of affairs around me, I have failed as a servant of the Most High God.

Are we here to serve God or is He here to give us what we want? The question will be answered in our prayers. Are we constantly asking Him for things or are we surrendered on a regular basis, telling Him that we will do anything He asks? (whatever the cost)

If it is the first, we may want to check out our priorities. Check your thought life. Are you constantly thinking only on what needs to be done, or have you set your mind upon the One who will direct you?

Connection is key. We must be connected with God through prayer. As you go about your day, be sure you have the peace of God which is a good sign that you are doing what He has called you to be doing. And lastly, live a life of full forgiveness by being connected with others. We are called to love. Is your heart set free from bitterness? Are you humbled in the way you treat others? Do you seek to correct your part of the problem before blaming?

You may have chaos all around. (those of us with kids understand) But, somehow you must be willing to silence your mind, to be still enough to hear and be aware of the voice of God. As His sheep, we need to listen. And we need to obey.

Matthew 22:37-40
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Honoring your husband

2007-10-14T21:58:00.000-07:00

Some time ago, I began to set a routine in place that I called "Daddy's Homecoming." It was my way of preparing our home for my husband to walk in the door. By getting my children and myself in this mindset it created an honor for him. Everyone worked together to prepare for Daddy to come home. No matter what we had done that day, we would do a tidy-up just special for him. I added (not all the time, but I did try for it to be a regular routine) lighting the candles (for smell and ambiance) & putting on some relaxing music that I knew he enjoyed. The ultimate goal would be to have the children working quietly on a project, I'd check myself in the mirror (making sure to add my smile, no matter how exhausted I was) and hopefully have dinner close to done.

What exactly I did didn't matter as much as the mindset of preparing my home for his arrival. Some days I've been able to accomplish a lot more than others. Many times we would just clear the kitchen table, vacuum and throw frozen lasagna in the oven! But, the point is we were doing it FOR Daddy.

During this pregnancy I cut back on my daily to do list and somehow this fell by the wayside. Shame on me. My sweet husband has dealt with a lot through my pregnancy and helped a lot too. He more than deserves a little honor. Even if it's just stopping whatever I am doing when I know he'll be coming home, clearing the surfaces and putting on a smile, my husband needs to be esteemed in our home. This is VERY important, not only for our marriage, but for my children's marriage too. Tomorrow I will begin again to our routine of "Daddy's Homecoming."

What are some things you can do to honor your man?

"Help, I've fallen & I can't get up"

2007-10-11T08:41:00.000-07:00

Remember that commercial?

This morning I woke up and felt that way. Stuck. I told God I couldn't move. It was all the burdens around me holding me. Another busy day, with no letting up tomorrow or Saturday. Then of course as I begin to try to focus on just today, thoughts of the holidays and baby and on and on flooded my mind. I continued in prayer, praying specifically for baby as I felt this immobilizing stress. I prayed for baby's peace in the midst of my turmoil. Eventually I called my sweet husband again, asked him to pray for me. He helped me to get a move on my day.

I said all this, because this video is what God sent my way this morning. A MUST SEE! Do click on some of his other videos too. There is one about how he goes about his daily functions and it's just amazing. What is the most amazing is the GLORY he has given to God in the midst of it all.

After I got over my shame, he gave me just a little more strength to face these (small) giants in front of me.

Now, go watch the video.

God is so faithful!

2007-10-10T10:18:00.001-07:00

I had one of those tough days yesterday where I was struggling to get the day done. Seemed like everything came at me all at once & the harder I tried to keep going the harder it was. I went to bed praying against the hopeless feeling I had about today. I had the haunting thought that today was going to be just as hard and I was not looking forward to another day like that. Well, I was awake a lot last night, thinking still on how hard I was thinking today was going to be - the long list of to do's and how tired I was sure I was going to be (since I wasn't sleeping!). And woke up, even more discouraged as I had left dishes in the sink, so we had no clean cups, we were out of water (a big necessity for me right now) and a few other things. But, I continued in prayer. I asked my husband to pray for me and he did.

I'm telling all of this to give a victory report on how God has paved a path for this day!! It is 10:30am and I'm almost done with our ironing for Church tonight (that is a huge deal for me!) and I got my dishes started, PLUS we're almost done with school! YES!!!! God is so faithful. My to do list doesn't seem as overwhelming & my hope for today is renewed.

I am so very thankful for the Lord's help in our time of need.
(He is God of the little things too)

Near Death Experiences

2007-10-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

The other night we watched a documentary type movie on people who had had "near death experiences." I had seen this one before (it's free online - you have to scroll down to where it says To Hell and Back), which was pretty good. But this one we watched the other night was GREAT! It was called The Lazarus Phenomenon. Here's a list of true experiences, including this one of an African pastor who was resurrected after three days, which was in the movie. If you scroll down on his page, you will see a link to the movie. There was another account VERY similar to one that was in the Hell and Back movie. Similar in that they both did not know anything more about Christianity than the Lord's prayer, yet experienced the love of God beyond comprehension. For each of these accounts it had been years since it happened, but as they spoke about meeting Jesus, tears ran down their faces. I walked away from this movie with brand new eyes. Not only about being humble enough to live a life of FULL forgiveness, but with a new vision of heaven!

I can't wait to go!!!
Will we see you there?

I mean REALLY REALLY...

2007-09-26T11:58:00.000-07:00

Life in a Shoe is hosting a giveaway of Vision Forum's exciting new adventure series, Ballantyne books.

Yes, I did already blog about this a long time ago. BUT, I really really really really really want to win.

Did I mention I want to win?

(I re-did it to make sure I had entered correctly, because I don't want to miss out!)

How's life?

2007-09-25T09:24:00.000-07:00

So, we started our first day of school. You can read about it over here.

A friend of ours let us borrow the movie One Night With The King. So, I've decided to take a break from reading 2nd Samuel (even though I'm almost done) to read Ester. It's such a great book! I love how you can see God's hand so clearly in the entire book.

Anyway, that's about it.

Hope life is going well for you!

Science Videos

2007-09-20T09:57:00.000-07:00

I thought I had posted on this before, but didn't find anything when I looked in my archives. Anyway, this guy posts science videos on a regular basis and up until just recently they didn't seem to have any agenda. He always does the experiment, then explains it.

They are really neat to watch.

Ok, here's the link: http://www.krampf.com/

Enjoy!

I found a good way to shake off your seriousness...

2007-09-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

...is to imitate your children's silliness. Not only will you loosen up a little, but you and your children will laugh uncontrollably together!

Who can't use a little bit of laughter?

Here's my newest quote I love:
“Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live.”

Hope you have a enjoyable day filled with fun!!

~Mercy~

In case you're wondering where I've been...

2007-09-14T08:03:00.001-07:00

Here's my new homeschool blog. My mind has just been really set upon getting prepared for our schooling right now. From there, I'll probably get into "baby mode" soon. There are just a lot of exciting things happening around here. :-D

Have a great day!!

Adopting From Liberia...

2007-09-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to pass along my real life friend's webpage. She is in the midst of adopting four children from Liberia! Watching this from the sidelines has strengthened my faith and given me so many things to think about. Please pray for this family!

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/Ellisfamily

I'm in organizing mode right now...

2007-09-04T21:46:00.000-07:00

I don't know if you've noticed by reading my blog, but I tend to be very moody. What I mean by that is I seem to get into certain "zones", where I can't seem to focus on anything but what I've got my mind on. Right now it's a little of re-organization and school preparation. I already mentioned that my schedule seems to fit our lifestyle remarkably well, which just excites me! Because that's a miracle you know. I know it will be short-lived, as hubby will be getting a new job (I'll post more on that later) and we all know that baby will turn this household upside-down. But, in the meantime, I'm rejoicing!

Anyway, since this week was a short one and I got a bug in me on Monday, I began getting my bookshelves and paperwork in order. Maybe you don't really know what that entails around here, but lets just say the word P I L E S. Yes, that's how organized I have been recently. It's all been put neatly into some organized piles, other piles...not so neatly. Why I am like this (and how to cope with my style), I have yet to understand. But, somehow I have had the energy and motivation to get it together in this area. Ok, when I say energy, I do mean that I'm working less than half of my normal self in the speed department. But, hey, I'm getting it done!

I have to say, today was probably my most productive day since I've been with child. The making of a baby can be very draining! It's nice to have a little more energy lately.

I also just want to say, I'm sorry that this blog has been so personal as of late. It seems I need a place to just sort of "share" what's happening in my little world. So, you all get to hear. I haven't been in the mode to post more meaningful thoughts, so I've just been updating as life flies by. Hope you stick with me while I experience the life the Lord has given to me and I promise to share some more applicable (and less self-centered) posts soon, as God allows.

Thanks for reading!
~Mercy~

It's that time again...

2007-08-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

I've sent in my homeschooling intent letter to the district. All my son's friends went back this past Monday. I've been drooling over that new curriculum (My Fathers World) I found and fell in love with. And, we've set up a new fall schedule. We're kicking it into gear around here.

Let's see if I can post my new schedule...

8:00
Wake up
8:30
Pickup room, Make bed, laundry, p/u bathroom
9:00
Breakfast
9:30
Cleanup Table,
living room and Kitchen
Switch Laundry
10:00
Bible Time
10:30
2yo "School"/7yo Math
11:00
English
11:30
Read Aloud
12:00
Lunch
12:30
Cleanup Table,
living room and Kitchen
Laundry
1:00
History/Science
1:30
History/Science
2:00
Art/Music
2:30
blog/nap/read
3:00
Chore Time
3:30
Chore Time
4:00
Chore Time
4:30
Book Basket with Kids
5:00
Daddy's Home Prep
5:30
Dinner
6:00-8:00
Daddy Time
8:30
Family Bible Study
9:00
Kids in Bed

This schedule is in anticipation for when I get MFW, but we've been able to work it until about noon and so far it's working great! The afternoon has been mostly "free play" until we get our new curriculum. In the morning, I have my youngest play with blocks or her little people while I read outloud. In case you are wondering our Math is Horizons workbook 1 and our English is First Language Lessons. For our Bible time right now we have just been reading through Psalms and talking about it. It's going well, even when I'm not completely up for doing all my chores, I usually can make it through homeschool time because all I really have to do is sit to read and discuss whatever it is they are learning. Oh, and for my youngest daughter (who is EXCEPTIONALLY bright!) I just do a workbook about colors with her. She already knows her colors, but we write her name on the top and she practices her coloring. After each page she puts a sticker on. Then we count to 5. For some reason she always skips 5, she'll say "1,2,3,4,6!" so I made up a little song to help her learn it. Songs help so much. She knows how to spell her name just because I made up a little catchy tune for it. (oh kay, so her name is only 3 letters, but I'm pretty proud of her!) I can tell she's going to be fun to homeschool, she catches on so easily!

Anyway, we're in the school time mode. I'm really looking forward to this year!!

{by the way, I also wanted to mention, this is one of the first times I've made a schedule and my times are pretty accurate. I know it seems strange that I have a whole half hour devoted to waking up, but there's always something to do during that time. Helping hubby or 2yo, or trying to get my son awake. It's been interesting (at least before noon) we have been on track even by the clock! The evenings are not so good though. Bedtime last night for even the kids was 12:00! I know, I'm a terrible mom. My husband is such a late nighter that it's hard to get focused earlier. My goal is 9:00, but if hubby doesn't get home until late, I allow the kids to stay up in order to spend some time with Daddy. Hey, that's one of the greatest parts about homeschooling in my opinion!}

God is moving...

2007-08-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

God is moving... Have you ever had that feeling like you know that God is doing some really awesome and major things in your life, and you can kind of see some of them, but you're just not sure exactly what He's doing yet.

That's where I've been for awhile.

Here's the noticeable things He's been working out before our eyes:

~A new car. Not just any new car, but a humbling car without ANY car payments!! Yes! That's where we've needed to be for awhile, but just weren't sure how to do it. God did it. And He did it perfectly. He blessed us beyond measure, it's an 89 that had two owners. First owner was an elderly woman who took immaculate care of it and the second owner didn't ever drive it really. So, our awesome God provided a blessing beyond understanding. Really, it all just sort of happened and we are really excited. Now, we need to get rid of the car with the payment. That's in the works. (please pray for this because we sure could use the extra cash for baby!!)

~As you already read in previous posts, a possible new job for hubby. He has stopped looking until he receives some bonuses that his job has in place first. (Which is probably why God didn't give him the other one.) But, if you all only knew how completely excited I am for the Lord to change his place of work...I am waiting patiently here in the meantime.

~Obviously a new baby, which in itself is just so exciting and such a change in any home. I can't wait!!

~We are still in the wait for the house issue. Not sure what His plan is, but we'll go with whatever He brings our way.

~A new curriculum. These past few weeks I have begun looking into My Fathers World curriculum. I had never given it much thought until then. Let me go back awhile...How about 2003 (or 4?) when my oldest son was about 3. I got a revelation of what I wanted my homeschool to look like and the two most important features were 1. God's word was intertwined into every feature. 2. I loved the idea of a unit study that all corresponded together. 3. It had history and science from God's perspective and the history would be chronological. Later when my son was probably 5 years old I decided before I delved into history I wanted to make sure his geography was well learned. Somehow the Lord just wouldn't plop it all in front of me perfectly. When my son was about 6, I purchased SOW curriculum. OH MY! I loved it. Really, I still love it. And, I still recommend it to people. But, it just wasn't working for us completely. I can't explain it all, but I know that God has lead me to My Fathers World in order to tie in what He spoke to me in the very beginning of homeschooling. There will be some bumps, maybe a lot of bumps, but I think that this is what I need to do. I can see such a difference already in our homeschooling since then. Part of the reason is I find having it all together and already planned out for me is WONDERFUL, I can see where I need to go in the next few years. I can push myself to do school on those difficult days when we don't want to because I see the end and I can see how important TODAY is. Before I was just hopping along each day, hoping I was going in the right direction. It just seems to click. There's a few other reasons. I need to be more fun. I really do. I'm a drag. And my purpose for being a mom is to love and serve my babies with all that I have. It really is. Homeschooling is my service to them. And, I can see the benefits of this curriculum keeping my heart set straight. Ok, I know some of you are thinking that I'm nuts putting such a high priority and esteem on a curriculum. And, I could be. But, it's really more than the curriculum. It's what God has been speaking to me about since looking at the curriculum. Does that make sense? Anyway, I am ready to give it a try!

It's so awesome serving God. His ways go far above mine. I am so thankful for all that He is doing, those things that I can see and those I cannot. I find it a bit interesting that He is blessing me at such a difficult time in my walk. I'm really just being honest with y'all. I've been struggling in some areas and I even went a few days without reading my Bible. Which just made my funk more funkier. So, let me just say that I am thankful not only for His blessings, but for his abundant grace and mercy for when our path seems a little darker.

I'll write later...

2007-08-23T16:27:00.000-07:00

If you knew how many drafts I have written right now. I keep coming on to write, but something takes me away. There are many posts just sitting there, with half a thought written. Whether they will ever come through, I'm not sure. So many things have been going on.

Things such as:

~A new car
~Neighbor problems
~New curriculum

A few everyday things I wanted to write on.
A few "deep thoughts" going on in my brain.

Right now, the dryer is buzzing and I've got to get ready to go out of town for the weekend. So, I'll have to check in later and update you with all the newest and latest going on.

As promised, a belly picture...

2007-08-16T23:35:00.000-07:00

Aprox. 12 Weeks

Ok, I know this isn't the best picture. I think I look kind of fat in this picture. It was late and we just wanted to get the whole thing done. Hub's took a few pictures and this was the only one that turned out good. Surprising because he takes much better pictures than I do. You can't really tell my build, but I normally do not have a belly. I used to keep my stomach toned, but I have to say it wasn't completely flat before this pregnancy.

As you all mentioned it could be just that I am onto my third child and my stomach is getting bigger sooner. I had a few people the other day tell me that I didn't look big at all for how far along I am. So, I don't think I should go by what people are saying here. I have been eating a lot as I said. Partly because at first I was HUNGRY (even that word in caps does not give weight to how it was.) I would eat and it felt like it went into this huge pit that grabbed at all that I would feed it. Then I started getting sick all the time and eating would temporarily seem to make me feel better. So, I ate. And, I'm still eating and still not feeling good. As far as being tired. OH YEAH! I have been taking a nap everyday, sometimes two. I have had my two year old little girl just sit with me in bed reading her book (before her nap time) while I CRASH! I am thankful that she's a pretty good girl, so when I tell her to stay with me in bed she does. I don't have to worry about my 7 year old. He's a great kid!

Anyway, whether it's twins or not only time will tell. In the meantime I will just keep going.

Call me a sucker if you'd like, but...

2007-08-16T12:43:00.001-07:00

I just won another giveaway!!!!

Honestly, it just sort of happened. I promised myself I was done, but then Shannon from Rocks In My Dryer started this really happening Giveaway Blog. The entire blog is dedicated to giving stuff away!! And, I got something. Yep. My name was drawn for this. It's sort of a game hookup type thingy that somehow attaches to your computer. Some of the games look like a lot of fun. Although I must say, spongebob will not be entering my house. We really aren't gamers around here, but this will be a very nice Christmas present for a little 7 year old boy who lives in this very home. Shh, just don't tell him. I even let him look at it as if we were just checking it out and I have a feeling he won't be disappointed when he opens it on Christmas morning.

If you happen to have a product you'd be willing to giveaway, let her know.

Either way, head on over there and check it out. Be sure not to drool too much when you see what I won.

And just to make me a really big sucker I'm going to let you know about a blog owner who is planning to give away $2500! Sorry all my blog friends for selling my blog out to every contest there is, but hey, I'm having fun!! And with all the luck I've had lately, I just thought I'd go for a big one.

I shamelessly end with this:
Over at Ashwin’s blog, you will find one crazy blog owner!! You can win $2500!! To enter just copy this text and paste it in your blog!! But hurry, this competition will not last long! So get posting!

I could quit anytime. I don't have a problem...really.

On my mind...

2007-08-15T17:24:00.000-07:00

Pray without ceasing.

Isn't that sentence a lot to take in? Then, applying it to your life is even harder. Recently God has been placing that scripture in my mind all the time. Reminding me that my life, every thought, every action, every second of it should be surrendered to the Lord. Especially when life seems hard. Especially when my hormones are raging and it takes everything I have to not blow up or break down. These are the times when I need to keep my every single moment in His hands. Life changes when you willingly put each situation that you face before His throne. All of a sudden I find myself being Spirit filled instead of reacting from my own flesh. Instead of thinking on how I think life should be, or what I should do, I give it all to God.

Romans 8:6
For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

Could it be twins?

2007-08-13T12:09:00.000-07:00

Ok, maybe every woman gets to this point in her pregnancy and thinks the same thing, I don't know. But, I do know that I've had a few people tell me that I look big for this stage and before you start thinking I need to be offended, they did add that my bump is "all baby." I do remember with my little girl (my last pregnancy) thinking that I was showing entirely too early and I was a bit embarrassed about it. BUT, I didn't show until really late with my son (first pregnancy) it seemed to take forever to even look like I was pregnant. These are my only two I can compare to. Is it true that with each child you show earlier? Or am I just making that up? I've been doing leg exercises just to keep my butt from getting as big as it got this last time. :-)

So, are there any other signs to look for in twins?
I mean besides bulging out like a big ol balloon?

I have yet to take any belly pictures. I am hoping to do that soon. When I do, I'll post a picture up and you can tell me if you think I'm huge or not. I have to admit I am eating A LOT. Which makes me wonder why it's not all in my thighs. It seems to really be going to baby, which is good! I am not much of an eater. I like food just enough to eat it. My husband is the one who loves food, talks about it, cooks it, talks about cooking it. Not me. I just want to get the stuff down so that I can get on with the life that's going on around me. So, being non-stop hungry for me has been a real drag. It has helped a lot with the morning sickness, if I keep my face full, I tend to feel better. Speaking of which, I think I'm doing better recently. I did have to pull over yesterday on the way to Church to throw up on the side of the road, but hey, I only did that once in one day! LOL. In all seriousness though, I think I am getting better in that area. I know it should be weaning down here soon, right?

So, that's my pregnancy update.

In other news... Heather has had her baby!!! It's a girl! Head on over to her place, read her birth story and give her a congratulations note!

Muslim President?

2007-08-09T16:14:00.000-07:00

I don't normally ever do politics around here, but I am frankly concerned that someone with a middle name of Hussein who went to Muslim schools would even be considered at a time like this! It's really strange in my opinion. Not only is Obama being considered, but he seems to be one of the top picks on the democratic side. Don't get me wrong, he appeals to people on a lot of different levels, but let's just look at the obvious here can we?

I know that the Lord is in full control of all that will happen. I'm just here to play my part as best as I can. As for me and my house, we'll be voting for someone who seems a little safer to trust our country with.

I will now step off of my soap box.

I just realized...

2007-08-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

How depressing it's been around here. I'm terribly sorry. Really, who wants to read about people feeling yucky and not getting hired for jobs they apply to. Yikes!

Truthfully, we've had quite a few "exciting" things going on here that I wasn't paying much attention to the blog life. We've had an ongoing saga within our neighborhood concerning a crazy man with a lot of dogs. He was just doing strange things like turning on everyone's water and leaving it to flood yards and in one case an actual house. We've grown closer to our neighbors as we've united together to gossip, um I mean, discuss what's been going on. Our family actually has really gone out of our way to be neighborly to him in the past. We've given him meals on several occasions, I went and bought him milk once when he asked me to, we've even prayed with him once! We're always praying for him. But, he just has some issues mentally. We got a bit worried because he was going into our yards doing things that he shouldn't be doing. I personally caught him throwing liquid of some type into driveways and most suspect that he was the one who threw the rusty nails into the driveway of some houses. He had made us really paranoid. We were praying constantly for the protection of our house and I wouldn't let my son go out to ride his bike. Personally I didn't want to go out alone unless I had to. Anyway, to make a long story short, he was finally arrested yesterday!! As it turns out, he had spit in a woman's face and that was enough to get him to jail. Between all of us neighbors the cops were coming out almost every day for a month. We figured the more we had on record of what he'd been doing, the bigger the case would be. Our prayer is that they will do some type of an evaluation and realize that he needs to be in a mental facility. I am a little concerned they will send him home and the whole ordeal will start over. We live in such a great neighborhood! All of our neighbors are so friendly and some have been here since the street was made. He's caused quite a stir around here and I'm hoping it's over! {update: he just came home in a taxi. He will be home at least until his court date on the 22nd. Please pray for our family and our neighbors. Thank you!}

That's what's been happening in my neck of the woods.
How's life treating you?

Toys Recalled

2007-08-06T10:36:00.000-07:00

[The Best List I've Seen So Far]

List of Recalled Toys
List of Toys Included in Fisher-Price Recall
By The Associated
The Associated Press List of model names and product numbers for the nearly 1 million recalled Fisher-Price toys, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission:

33662 Elmo Light Up Musical Pal
33663 Ernie Light Up Musical Pal
33664 Big Bird Light Up Musical Pal
34658 Elmo Stacking Rings
39038 Elmo Tub Sub
39054 Sesame Street Shape Sorter
87946 Elmo Keyboard
90267 Ernie Splashin' Fun Trike
90609 Elmo Collectible
90611 Cookie Collectible
90612 Zoe Collectible
90613 Ernie Collectible
90614 Big Bird Collectible
90745 Construction Playset
93068 Elmo Boom Box
93107 Action Fire Engine
93307 Press N Go Elmo
93308 Rev & Go Cookie Monster
93492 Cookie Saxophone
93493 Elmo's Guitar
93615 Splash Tub Puzzle
93780 Music And Lights Phone
B7554 Count To Beat Elmo
B7888 Shake, Giggle & Roll
B7987 Elmo in the Giggle Box
B7989 Silly Parts Talking Elmo
B9620 Dora's Talking House
C6908 Dora, Backpack, Perrito Figure Pack
C6909 Diego Figure Pack
C6910 Swiper Figure Pack
C6911 Boots, Tico Figure Pack
G3825 Dora Talking Vamonos Van
G5112 Sing With Elmo's Greatest Hits
G9717 Giggle Doodler
H2943 Grow with Me Elmo Sprinkler
H3343 Cousin Daisy
H3344 Birthday Dora
H5569 Elmo & Pals (Elmo, Cookie, Ernie)
H5570 Elmo & Pals (Elmo, Zoe, Big Bird)
H4187 Dora Figures in Tube
H4628 Water Fun Tote
H8236 Dora 3 Pack Figures in Tube
H8237 Blue 3 Pack Figures in Tube
H8238 Sponge Bob 3 Pack Figures in Tube
H9124 Chef Dora
H9125 Bedtime Dora
H9186 Giggle Grabber Ernie
H9188 Giggle Grabber Oscar the Grouch
J0338 Diego Talking Field Journal
J0343 Go Diego Go Antarctic Rescue
J0344 Go Diego Go Deep Sea Rescue
J0345 Go Diego Go Mountain Rescue
J0346 Go Diego Go Talking Rescue 4 X 4
J5935 Giggle Grabber Soccer Elmo
J5936 Giggle Grabber Chef Cookie Monster
J6537 Sesame Street Giggle Toolbelt
J6762 Queen Mami
J6763 Royal Boots and Tico
J6765 Prince Diego
J7983 Sesame Street Tub Pots & Pans
J9518 Sesame Street Giggle Drill
J9692 Dora's Talking Pony Place
K0617 Twins Nursery
K3414 Diego - Talking Gadget Belt
K3571 Go Diego Go Mobile Rescue Unit
K3580 Fairytale Adventure Dora
K4139 Go Diego Go Dinosaur Rescue
K4140 Toucan Motorcycle Rescue
L0305 Dora Figure
L3194 Surprise Inside Diego Eggs
L3215 Sesame Street Elmo Jack-In-The-Box
L3488 Sesame Street Birthday Figure Pack
L3507 Sesame Street - Super Boom Box
L5202 Birthday Dora
L5813 Diego Tub Trike
L8905 Pablo & Pals
M0351 Dora Figures Dora & Kitty
M0352 Dora Figures Diego & Bear
M0524 Go Diego Go Talking Gadget
M0527 Sesame Street Giggle Doodler
M0732 Dora's Talking House
M2051 Let's Go Rescue Center
M2052 Fairytale Castle

Just trying to survive...

2007-08-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

There are seasons where life is just plain ol hard. This is one of those for me. In every aspect, I'm literally just trying to get through this time. Being sick is not fun. It's sort of like having the flu, but it doesn't go away. Yes, I comfort myself knowing that I have a little living soul that God has blessed me with, but it can be trying even still. I know this will pass, so I hang on.

First I'll be a mother...

2007-07-29T23:19:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite poem.
I first read it from Rocks In My Dryer
and it has never left my mind.
I hope you enjoy it too!

First I'll Be A Mother...
Some houses try to hide that fact
That children shelter there.
Ours boasts of it quite openly--
The signs are everywhere.
For smears are on the windows,
Little smudges on the doors.
I should apologize, I guess,
For toys strewn on the floor.
But I sat down with the children
And we played and laughed and read.
And if the bathtub doesn't shine
There eyes will shine instead.
For when, at times, I'm forced to choose
The one job or the other,
I want to have a lovely house,
But first I'll be a mother.
--Author Unknown

Just for today...

2007-07-27T16:36:00.000-07:00

Just for this morning, I am going to step over the laundry, and pick you up and take you to the park to play.

Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink, and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.

Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles.

Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not even a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck and I will buy you one if he comes by.

Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.

Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me bake cookies, and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.

Just for this afternoon, I will take us to McDonald's and buy us both a Happy Meal so you can have both toys.

Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story about how you were born and how much I love you.

Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.

Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars.

Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my favorite TV shows.

Just for this evening when I run my finger through your hair as you pray, I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever given.

I will think about the mothers and fathers who are searching for their missing children, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children's graves instead of their bedrooms, and mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside that they can't handle it anymore.

And when I kiss you good night I will hold you a little tighter, a little longer. It is then, that I will thank God for you, and ask Him for nothing, except one more day.............

Anonymous

The Dream Job...

2007-07-27T14:57:00.000-07:00

He didn't get it.

The guy said there were a lot of qualified applicants and that they hired the one with the most experience in this field. He also said to come back to apply within the next few months because they are growing. Which sounds like he may still have a chance later...possibly??

Oh well. I know God has something planned for my handsome hardworking man. We'll just have to see what that is. :-)

Not that anyone is out there anymore, but...

2007-07-27T12:09:00.000-07:00

I've had a few things going through my mind that I really wanted to write, but never sat down to really get them out. I'm hoping to write some more here soon.

I seem to have lost all my friends out there in blogland. They've all decided to stop blogging for the time being, so I guess I'd better go searching for some. I think it's funny though, still, I have an average of 100 people each week visit. I don't know who's reading. It would sure be nice to have a "how do ya do" kinda comment every so often. :-) But, I understand, I used to be anonymous too!

So, for all you lurkers that maybe, just maybe, are interested in what's going on in my oh so exciting life. Here's an update: Yes, I'm puking. More than I'd like to discuss. But, I'm still feeling better than I did with my other two babies. Hub's is calling again about that job today. I should have an update either by later today, or tomorrow or Monday depending on things.

And, the most important...did I win anything yet from the greatest blog giveaway in history??

Why yes, I did. :-) Go here to check it out if you'd like.

Hope all is well in your life.

Giveaways Galore!!

2007-07-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

For anyone who just isn't "in the know" about what is happening out in bloggyland. (How anyone couldn't notice, I'm not sure, but...)

You are really missing out!

There are so many chances to win right now. Even I may have a chance to win something here. After spending hours and visiting hundreds of blogs typing in my comments, I really should to win something, right??

Oh, I haven't told you where to go yet. Head over to Shannon's place for her brilliant idea of a collection of giveaways called Dog Days Of Summer Bloggy Giveaway!!

And, if you're wondering why I haven't given back to the cause and I'm just being a mooch...I really don't have any good answers. I do have an excuse and I'll tell you just to make you happy. I just didn't get anything organized in time. How's that for you?

Oh well, enjoy. I just like to share the love. That's my sacrifice in the whole bloggy giveaway. I'm lessening MY chances to win. Just don't go to any of those organizing places, like Marcia's or Organizing Junkie's because as I already stated, I need some help there!

Today's blog post.

2007-07-20T09:38:00.001-07:00

Take a good hard look into your child's face.

2007-07-18T12:33:00.001-07:00

What do you see? Are they smiling? Really smiling? Do they have joy? How about their eyes? Are they sparkling? Think about the last time they laughed. How long ago was it? What were they laughing about? Was it wholesome? Can your child laugh at himself? Or do they laugh about someone else's failures?

Take time to study who your child is. Look into their soul. They almost become a part of us, since we see them day in and day out and it can be hard to look objectively. Try it. Imagine you just met them. What would you think about that child?

As you do, realize so much of you is reflected within them. Have you taken a good look at YOU lately? Make sure your priorities are right. Life is short.

Phone interview

2007-07-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

Ok. So, he had a phone interview this morning at 7am. The guy said the interview would be somewhere between 10-15 minutes and it was 14. From what I heard Hubs answered the questions really great. (he told me afterword the conversation) But, his main concern was that he said um way too much, he was tired (actually his throat hurt, which gave an appearance that he was tired) and a bit nervous. Since it is a type of telephone position his phone etiquette was very important. Like I said, I thought his answers sounded really good. In the end the guy said that he would call him in a week to let him know if there is still an opening. Which isn't the best thing he could have said, but...there's hope still. After learning a little online, we've decided to write a thank you letter (for the interview) which inlcludes some things he may have wanted to say, but was too nervous to do. Hopefully get that out before too late so that they don't forget who he is. Then, we'll just see...

I haven't stopped praying yet. :o)

Another Update

2007-07-16T14:06:00.001-07:00

Can you believe it? The company just called here!! Sounds like good news to me! I'll check back in to let you know how things progress. Glad you all can join me on this exciting journey!

Job Update

2007-07-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

So far so good. They took his resume this morning and seemed pleased. First step is accomplished! It is sometimes difficult to take one step at a time. My husband really likes the work environment. He said it's a modern building and everyone seems pretty comfortable. I've shown the resume to almost everyone I know and asked for their opinion, all of them have changed a little here and there but said overall it looks great. Hopefully they think so too. :o)

There's only One who knows whether this job would give give my husband opportunity to give God glory. We'll leave it all in His hands!

Thanks again for your prayers.

I smell change up ahead!

2007-07-15T22:05:00.001-07:00

I've been busy (make that very busy) working on hubbys resume! Yep, there's a possibility that my hard working man just might have better hours and could be HOME more!!!!!! If you all only knew the prayers and tears. God does hear when we cry out to Him! This job in particular is almost like a dream because of the hours. They are SET. Which alone just makes me want to jump for joy. But, beyond that, they are GOOD hours...6:30-3:30 and only 5 minutes away from home. Not to mention there would be a pay increase.

Here's where we need prayer. The job post was taken offline last night. Not surprisingly because it had been up a month as of yesterday. My ambitious husband will be there with resume in hand at 8am tomorrow morning to inquire nonetheless. I don't know for sure if God has marked this job for him (although he seems to fit the bill pretty well), but I do know that He is moving in the area of hub's work. That alone makes me VERY excited!

Like I said, I've been working hard on his resume since I heard about the job. I am just now finishing it up. I am excited, even if this job does not pan out, because we are now fully prepared for whatever God has planned next.

God is good.

In times of thirst and in times of plenty.

He is always good.

Thank you for taking a moment to pray specifically for him. I will be stepping out in prayer, asking the Lord for this job. Only He knows, but it appears to fulfill (from my small brained perspective) my hearts desire to have my best friend around us more often. I'll keep you updated if/when God does place him in a new job.

Thanks again for your prayers!!

Praying for our Children

2007-07-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's the new book I'm reading (A Mothers Heart by Jean Fleming) but this past week or so I've made a point to pray over my children each morning (well, sometimes it winds up being later in the day), but it has become a priority. Yes, I was praying for them before, but praying over them has made a huge difference in my prayers for them. I pay more attention to details of what is going on in their life Right Now that I can pray for them about. I tend to pray even for the lives that stand before them and for the way that they can affect eternity. I can't tell you why this has made a difference, maybe it's the accountability of having them expect it from me. But, I've even begun to see a change in their own prayer lives. My oldest has made it more of a priority to find a spot to be alone with the Lord in order to seek His face.

Ladies, this is our number one priority. Yes, we want our little ones to learn to read, write and add. We also want them to be hard workers and obedient. But, above all, we want them to know and love the Lord. By being an example through prayer, you can lead them also to their knees. It also has set a tone for our home, to keep our hearts set on the important things. I especially urge you to pray for your children if you are struggling to be faithful to prayer. Like I said, it has paved a trail that my children have expected me to sit with them as I lift them up before the throne of God. Having them listen to what I am praying for them about, gives them a comfort to know that their problems, concerns and fears are in good Hands.

There is one duty we have before the Lord, and that is to be a helpmeet to our husbands. By caring for our children, by praying for their needs, we fulfill this calling. Just imagine your husband looking back on his life, his accomplishments and realizing that he has raised a his arrows to be strong in the Lord. This will above all things give him a sense of success that his life has made a difference.

Oh yeah, and your husband and children will rise up and call you blessed... :o)

So, gather your children together, spend time on each one making mention of them before the throne of the Most High. Ask them if there is something in particular they may want you to mention. If they don't have anything, be sure to be attentive to what kinds of things have been on their mind lately or activities going on that you can pray for them about. Remember that you will reap what you sow in the lives of your children. Sow the seed of prayer within their hearts.

1st Peter 4:7
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

Babies...

2007-07-07T16:52:00.000-07:00

I'm having a baby, I'm having a baby! Yipee!!

It has been funny to watch reactions. With my last little girl people were so happy to find out that we were having another. Many said things like, "it's about time" with excitement in their words. This time however, most people have just smiled and said, "that's great." It's funny actually. We've pushed the limit - we've gone to THREE kids! Oh my!!

As you know it was a bit of a struggle for me. I was relieved when my husband just went ahead and made the decision, because thinking it was up to me was much too difficult for me. Thankfully, I have a God in heaven that answers prayers, so that I don't have to hold that weight. :o)

On the same note here's a video about taking over the world by making babies from Fox News.

By the way, I've been yucky feeling for a few days here now. Must have spoke too soon about not being sick. However, I AM doing much better than my last two pregnancies. I have not technically thrown up at all! Which is a MIRACLE!! I've just gotten really picky about food and feel like I have a constant nauseous feeling in my stomach. Thankfully it's just a season. And, thankfully it will pass!

Oh my, another chance!

2007-07-06T15:32:00.000-07:00

Go here and enter ANOTHER contest to win the same books.
This is for all TEN!

You need to hurry though. The deadline is 3pm tomorrow!

What are you waiting for?
Head over to Biblical Womanhood before it's too late!!

Contest

2007-07-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

What can I say, I'm a sucker!

Kim at Life In A Shoe having a contest - click here and enter to win some FREE BOOKS!!

She's giving away 10 Ballantyne books and she's already given out the first one. I didn't win (yet - there's still hope here!) , but these books look like great boys books. Which are very hard to come by. Oh, and if you put a link at your own blog, you have a chance to WIN ALL 10 TITLES!!

Good luck!

[Edited to give you a glimse of the books from the Vision Forum.]

Independence Day 2007

2007-07-04T21:10:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July to everyone!!

We are planning to have an easy day.

Trying not to do too much.

I'm hoping to find some type of

body of water and just sit there all day.

We'll see if I'll be able to or not. :o)

How very blessed we are to live in this country. I think about this often. The truth is, not many live like we. And, with that we have quite a responsibility to be givers. If anything, to at least be of a thankful heart. We are very blessed.

I have a hard time sometimes asking the Lord for blessing on our nation because of all of the evil that I see around. But, then I see amazing and beautiful people who love God and are trying to live for Him with all they have. That's what makes me still believe that God can and will bless this nation for His good and glory. So, with that, I pray for His grace to pour out upon our Country, that He would save and set free all those in bondage, and let His name be glorified! Amen.

Have a blessed Fourth Of July!

~Mercy~

Birth Story #1

2007-07-03T17:13:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't like birth stories?? Heather has been posting her birth stories over at her blog, and with the recent knowledge that I'll be having another story here soon, I've decided to put mine up too. :o)

This story is of my now 7yo boy who is 4 1/2 feet tall and wears a size 7 in mens!! His obsession that I frequently pray for is Transformers. He loves the Lord with all he has though, I'm telling you. He sings with all his heart during service and people comment regularly what a wonderful example he is to the other children. He has blessed me beyond understanding. I love this my boy dearly. Never would have guessed who he would be now that day I met him in the hospital. I loved him at first sight. May the God of eternity, grant us eternal life with Him forever together. Amen.

Bear in mind I was not a Christian and not married at this time in my life.

I was working at a Lawyers office that was blocks away from my home, which was right down the street from the town hospital. That may have helped a little bit. But, throughout the entire pregnancy, I had total peace. I had no idea what to expect. I have always had a high tolerance for physical pain, maybe that also is why I didn't even really think too much about whether my baby would be difficult to deliver.

Well, let me first back up to when I first found out, since the whole story ties together. I had left the boyfriend (we now call him sperm donor, because he's long gone...) and was visiting family when I first found out. I remember I had a dream and saw my little boy running to me in a field saying, "mommy!" When I woke up at 5:30am, I knew right away I was pregnant. I ran to the bathroom and threw up. :o) Then, I took a shower. While I was in the shower I kept saying over and over to my baby I'm keeping you, I'm keeping you. Strange thinking really, because I never really thought about doing anything else, but I think the Lord knew some opposition would be coming. I didn't really know what to do. I told my mom first, actually I told her I wanted to come home early and she guessed right away. Then I went to a pregnancy clinic to figure out what to do next. How I got there I don't quite remember, but I do remember that they mentioned that I had options. I didn't honestly know what it was that they were implying until later on. After mentioning these things to me (sweet little old ladies too - UGH!!) they asked me if I wanted to have the baby. I said yes, as if I had really not even thought about anything else BUT to have him. Truthfully, I HAD already made my CHOICE, that was to get pregnant!!!!!! THAT was the time of decision!! Ohhh Kaayy, lets move on, shall we... So they gave me these little booties as if to say, well then, you've made your choice. But, I do still remember as I walked out the door they handed me information and seemed to think I was doing the wrong thing. Thank God that He protected me from understanding what they were trying to tell me.

Because I was so sick, I went to the emergency room. I had no idea, I thought that meant there was something wrong. But, I have to tell this part because I told the other story...The doctor who took me, for no other reason but to show me the baby (I know this now), gave me a sonogram. And told me she was in a similar situation as I was. Again, I really didn't understand that people were trying to persuade me in either direction, I was pretty set I had a living soul inside of me and I was going to do what needed to be done. But, I am thankful now for her. :o)

Ok, on to the actual birth story...
So, as I said, I lived and worked nearby the hospital. I didn't even know when the time came for me to be in labor, except that I was majorly sick that day. I think now that it was nerves telling me that I was going to have a baby later that day. I had had some back ache stuff going on, but didn't really think much about it. Because I felt so sick, I went home early from work. I remember a friend and my boyfriend (yes we got back together, I know, I know...) were drinking and having a time, while I was sitting on the steps of my apartment thinking to myself, "I'm going to have my baby. I'm ready. It's going to happen. I gotta go. Right. Now." So, I told them that I needed to go to the hospital. "The guy" took me, my parents showed up. No one was convinced I was going into labor, and even though I was quiet, I think I knew. The nurse took me up into a room and told me that they were going to give me "something" to calm my nausea and then I'd be going home. Well, just after she gave me whatever it was and told me I could start to get ready, my water broke right there on the bed! I remember talking to my dad and I was so shocked I cussed. (I know, remember I didn't know God. :-D) SO, since my water had broke, they moved me into the delivery room. I wish I knew hours and such, I'm not that good I remembering things like that. I do know that it was pretty quick. Altogether I think it was 5 hours, 1/2 hour pushing. I wish I knew for sure. I remember being in the rocking chair that was in the room for a long time, just breathing, kind of out of it. I remember at one point screaming and them telling me to breath. I also remember while I was pushing, after like the third push I started crying and said "I can't do this" and of course, I did. It only took like 7 pushes. And, after the "I can't do it" stage, came the euphoria. I remember the doctor telling me that my baby was coming. My mom was saying "look, look" and I (just as if I had done this a thousand times) reached down when I saw my baby coming, and pulled him right out, looked at him for a moment and put him on my chest. I was crying, some from exhaustion and some because I was so happy. I looked at him and he was BEAUTIFUL. I mean, good looking!! (he still is) I still don't know what prompted me to do that. I thought that that was just what I was supposed to do I think. It just seemed right to get him. I know a lot had to do with the atmosphere and the doctor obviously allowed the whole scene to take place. I love to think about this moment. It was all so wonderful.

No medication, nothing.
I am thankful though that the labor was pretty short. :-)

I spent the next few days sleeping with my newborn. No problems with nursing at all. The lactation consultant gave some pointers, but we just sort of figured it out. This boy did not come near a bottle except for once, and he would not have anything to do with it. Sadly the only way I knew to wean him was to leave him for a few days. :-( This was after he was a year old. He ran my life really. I didn't believe in discipline until I got saved. He was about 1 1/2 when I gave my life to the Lord. Then we met a man, a real man who loved God, who has become his Daddy. He knows of no one else but him as Dad. I thank God regularly for this. Really, I am so thankful!!!

I love telling this story, because it's almost like a dream to me. Tune in next time to hear the other birth that is not so dream like...

And now you know, the REST of the story!

2007-07-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the lovely comments. It's so nice to have friends in blogland.

I promised the "whole story" so here it is.

I had a hunch somewhere around May 16th and I told my husband that I thought that I was pregnant. All day I had that "glow" but then decided it must just be "me" and I'm not really. Then, on the 21st I had what I think now was a "fake period." Funny thing is, we hadn't decided to Really try until that day of "I think I am..." At that point, we said - we're being ridiculous and lets just trust the Creator of all to do as He pleases. Actually, when I say "we" I really mean I left it up to my sweet hubs, HE decided and I got my heart right in the situation. :o)

Fast forward to last week. Now the whole time since I thought I was, I kept thinking about it, but thought I was just overly obsessed with the whole idea. This last Wednesday I decided to look at a calendar (right now I'm calender deficient for some reason, time is just going by me) and I realized that I was a least 10 days overdue! Wow. How did that happen? So, at this point, I was running all of the signs in my head. The biggest being that my bre*$ts were sore. (sorry for getting so descriptive, but you know..) Another big sign I'll talk about in a moment.

We got the test that night and took it the next morning. Lo and behold it was POSITIVE!!!! This was the first baby I didn't ABSOLUTELY, without a shadow of a doubt KNOW already when I took that test. All day long I went from crying (happy cry here) to laughing uncontrollably. At that point we hadn't even told my oldest so I was wondering if he thought his mom was going wacky. Poor guy. I couldn't help it, I was just really overjoyed!

(hang on here for the other sign, we'll get to it)

So, the last baby we had told all of our parents at the same time. I went to my parents who are local, then we called hubs parents from there and surprised them all. WELL, that was the plan this time. We were traveling to hubby's parents house (on the way we told the kids) and we figured Saturday night we would call my parents. That sounded great until we found out that my mom was going camping in the middle of nowhere without my dad! We decided to try to get a hold of them all anyway. First we called my dad and he said he was planning to possibly meet her out at the campground. We tried to call her while on the phone with my dad and her phone wasn't working (either out of range or off). Anyway, we called my dad again, because we were anxious to know if we were going to be able to tell everyone at once or not and he said he was not going tonight. He was watching our dog, so I told him to call us if it seemed like it was getting too late for us to come and get her that night. In between that, we told hubbys parents and sister. :o) Well, around 8:30 he called. He was talking to my husband and I wasn't listening, but I guess he asked straight out if the reason why we were trying to get a hold of my mom was because I was pregnant. My, oh so predictable man, yelled something like "oh, I'll get that for you" and ran off tossing the phone to me. Wondering what was going on, I said hi and he asked me the same thing. I laughed and said to him that he's not usually the one who asks point blank, usually it's my mom who asks out right. Oh well. So, then the next day, we went to pick up our dog from their house, mom was back from camping and we told her then too. Everyone is happy! That's always good. :o) Oh, then my husband made an announcement at our church that God has blessed us with another baby, everyone cheered. I told everyone who reads this, so I think that's about it - the whole world knows now. It's hard to keep a secret! I'm glad its out.

Ok, now for my other sign. I have always felt my babies early. After the first one, I knew what to feel I guess. So, before I knew I was pregnant, I was feeling those same "popcorn" feelings. I was thinking to myself that since I'm not pregnant, maybe all this time when I thought I was feeling my babies, it was actually gas or something. It turns out, I really was feeling MY baby!!! Isn't that amazing?? Without a doubt, I am feeling him swimming and bumping around in there. That's one reason why I think my last period was a fake one. I think I'm further along than that.

Pregnancy is such an awesome experience!

Well, I can say that, since I am not throwing up every two seconds here. This pregnancy has been so different from my last two. I thought for sure I was destined to have the worst "morning" sickness in all recorded history with all of my babies. But, NOT this one. (not so far at least...) I am finding that I'm getting a little nauseous if I don't eat, but as soon as I stick anything in my mouth, the "monster" inside gobbles it up and I have energy again. I say monster, not to put any stigma on this baby, but I literally feel like there is a monster in my stomach when I eat. I can almost picture this thing with a big mouth being tamed as I feed it. :o)

And if you're wondering, I'm thinking it's a boy. I have KNOWN with both of my children. This one, I'm not as sure, but I wasn't even quite sure I was pregnant. The biggest reason why I think so, I keep talking to people and without even noticing, I say him. We'll see...

SURPRISE: I'm having a BaBy!!!!!!!!!!

2007-07-02T12:12:00.000-07:00

Yep, you read that right. I'm pregnant. Amazing I know. I think so too. It all has happend so quickly. I'll tell you the whole story here in a little bit. I just said I'd tell you after the weekend was over so I didn't want to let you down. Cuz I just know you've been checking back here every two seconds all day to see if my secret was out yet. Um, yeah, Rrriiigghhtt... :o)

Anyway, I'll try to write back to you after a bit and tell the whole story. In the meantime, if you read this and you know my phone number, you need to call so I can tell you in person. It's just been busy. We went out of town this weekend - and I had to tell the grandparents first you know.

I'm tired, kids are tired and I gotta go.
talk to you in a little...

tee hee hee - I'm having a baby!!

Shh...

2007-06-29T15:10:00.000-07:00

Don't tell anyone.

I have a surprise coming up soon.

In the meantime...

You'll have to be in suspense.

All. Weekend. L - O - N - G.

Ooo HA ha ha ha ha!
(that was one of those evil villian laughs)

A dog's tale

2007-06-27T09:41:00.000-07:00

So, we got a dog. For a night. He was soo cute. He was a little yorkie and was swerving in and out of cars almost getting hit last night around 8pm, so hubby jumped out and chased him. The sweet dog finally turned around and just jumped into hub's arms. So, we took him around to show everyone we knew, my son named him "Roughie" and the this cute little dog just sat content in our laps all night. When we finally took him home, he took to my daughters princess bed very quickly. I gave him a bath and brushed his teeth because he stunk bad. In fact, I said we should name him stinky. The animals all gave him that look like "You're cute, but if you think you're staying you got another thing coming." He slept with the kids all night, barked at 5am for some food. That's all we heard of him the whole night. Then, at 8:30 I called the pound. His mom had already called and she was crying when I told her we had him. She had been up all night and woke early this morning to go out looking for him. So, Roughie's name is actually Max. And, he was really happy to see his mom and dad, so we're pretty sure that it was them. And that's the story of our dog we had for one night. :o)

Stat's about him:
Name- Max
Age- 1 1/2 years
Weight- 4lbs
Cute factor - *****(that's 5 stars)

When you begin to dispair, remember...

2007-06-26T16:22:00.000-07:00

Do not cry in complaint because the situation has no hope.

BELIEVE GOD FOR A MIRACLE!!!!!
And then, just keep walking in faith.

When all hope is lost, there is still hope
because we are still yet alive and God is not dead!!

(yes, I will keep writing this until it sinks in...really deep.)

House Blessings...

2007-06-26T13:51:00.000-07:00

God has been so good to us in where we live as I have written numerous times. Speaking of which, remember this post? Well, here's the update of what's been happening. First, we have a friend from church who buys and sells homes for a living and we asked him right away to help us look for a good deal for our landlord. Well, we've been waiting, and waiting and praying and waiting, and FINALLY something came along. We haven't presented it to our landlord yet, but it has all of the qualifications we think that he's looking for. All in the midst of this, we keep wondering how much are we going to put out more in order to do this and are we going to get ourselves into some kind of a trap? Eeek. But, as Christians, we must believe that God is so intimately involved that He will make right come out right. So, like I said, we haven't yet presented it to our landlord and then this afternoon as I checked the mail, we got what looks like God's provision helping us to qualify for a loan. It is a state "program" available for new home buyers. The qualification is it has an income limit of $85,000 annually for a family of four. Not that I'm telling you all what we make, but we don't pass that (sMiLe). SO, with this thing we will not only have a great rate, but also a grant (non-repayable) for the state to pay 4% on the down. AMAZING, no? I'm not too into programs, but in this case, it's here for first time homebuyers and someone is going to use the money. Why not us. It sure would help us out. Anyway, I don't have too much to say on the subject, except that it seems that God is moving! And, we are patiently waiting. :-) I will update as things unfold.

You Tube Fun...

2007-06-24T16:09:00.000-07:00

Type in "just for laughs gags". How much fun! You can't help but laugh. They have a hidden camera and do these setups for people and it's just too funny! Beware, there are so many good ones hours will disappear very quickly!!!

Life update

2007-06-21T18:13:00.000-07:00

So, I quit.

Swimming lessons that is!

I am so excited for this summer. Although this week has been just as busy as it was when we were doing the swimming lesson thing twice a week. Two straight years we've been going. Ahh, it feels sooo good to be free! :-D

My biggest reason why I've decided to quit is that I was not available in the evenings most of the time when my husband would get home. That's just not what I want for my home. I need to be here, waiting anxiously for my man!

Hopefully that takes a little bit of stress off of our family to enjoy our life together as a family here at home. That's the plan.

Saturday is the big celebration for the swimming boy. He's really good to be honest. Enough to make you feel like you're doing the wrong thing, but we're not. (wink) Anyway, both grandparents and his cousins will be at the pizza place to surprise him after his last lesson. Then we will have give him a little something to say we're proud of all you've accomplished and present him with a trophy! Truth is when we first started two years ago, he was deathly afraid of the water, now he has mastered with excellence all four strokes! So, he really deserves a little party.

That's the big thing going on. Lots of little things. I watched a friends two boys today. One is my son's age (7) and the other is 1 year, just young enough that my 2yo daughter thought she could mother him. It was so cute to watch! I had a really great day with them.

Oh, and we're contacting a midwife to talk about the possibility of me having a baby! Oooh, I'm not pregnant yet, but hoping to be soon. Please pray for us as we need the Lord to be with us in this endeavor.

Hope your life is going great...mine sure is.

So Mama, Be Happy!

2007-06-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

Never turn back.
Always keep walking forward.
But, NEVER FORGET!

"If Mama ain't happy,
ain't nobody happy.
So, Mama, Be Happy!"

Step 1: Peace

If you are at war within you, there is a good chance you will be at war with those around you. The only way to find peace is to surrender to God. When you have peace with God, you will have the peace of God.

Step 2: Control

Now that you have surrendered, you have to give over your ALL your rights to the Lord. Realize that self can be the enemy of God. Give up all control of your life and be willing to do anything for Him.

Step 3: Release

As life happens, things will make you mad, critical, angry, etc. Each time You Must Repent. Release your situation to God. This happens through prayer alone. These circumstances will bring you closer to your Creator. Be ready to change!

Step 4: Thanksgiving

Since life can be tough and things may not always go your way, learn to focus your thinking on the good things in your life. Be of a thankful heart. Realize you have a lot to be grateful for. "I thank You Lord, I truly thank You..." should be in your vocabulary constantly.

Step 5: Joy

These two are tied together. Joy is the result of a person who gives thanks in every situation. Even when it's difficult. It is an inner excitement that all things DO work together for good. Trick: do not worry about things past or be concerned about those things that have not come yet. This frees your mind to experience today in its fullest. So, enjoy and focus only upon those things set before you.

Step 6: Laughter

The opposite of someone who constantly complains and has a chip on their shoulder. A true to the heart, deep felt laugh will cause even the coldest of souls to change their perspective. Laughter is a gift from God. It will set the captive free!

Step 7: Love

The granddaddy of all goals - To truly know and show Love. When you have understood Gods love for us, what He has done, His heart toward His people, only then can your life radiate the tenderhearted love, which blesses with forgiveness, service and giving.

Steps to win a heart.

2007-06-15T20:13:00.000-07:00

This was taken from a conversation the other day from a friend with eight blessings. (well, 7 and one on the way!) I hope I got them right, but these I don't want to forget.

So, without further adu, here's...

The Steps To Win A Wayward Heart:

1. Look them in the eyes more.
2. Listen fully.
3. Make a point to touch them often.
4. Stop critizising, unless it's abslutely nessesary.
5. Admire their positive qualities.
6. Refine discipline techniques.
7. Love them with all your heart.

Oh kay Betty, I know you're reading this saying "I don't remember that one, or that one..." Oh well. Sometimes I can go beyond the conversation. :-D Hopefully they make sense and bless others as they have blessed me. I think the important stuff is there but, let me know if you can think of any I missed.

Awe, to be in Love...

2007-06-15T19:54:00.000-07:00

Get it in your head - you can't change him.
Only God can!

But, you CAN create an atmosphere for God to move. (wink, wink)

Accept your man as the greatest.
Adore him like no other!
Yes, with an adoration that makes you smile in glee that He's Yours!!
With a "He's My Kinda Man" attitude. :-D

Constantly, constantly, constantly look at his good attributes. Laugh at the other parts in good humor. See his great side until you can see nothing else. Then and only then can you begin to believe God for a change.

Are you happy with your hubby?
He'll like you too.

What can happen sometimes is inside we are angry at ourselves. Maybe really angry. [or unhappy about some part of you.] Be thankful that he's still with you in spite of your problems. Then commit yourself to stop dwelling on them. God is working problems out of all of us. Our husbands get discouraged to see us disappointed in life. So repent. :-D And, lighten up!

Never, Never, Never criticize your husband. Even in your head. Let your every thought of him be of ultimate Love. See the best in the guy of your dreams.

Be completely willing to shower him with all of your heart.
You will not regret that you did.

May God bless our marriages and homes. Amen.

posts

2007-06-13T23:37:00.000-07:00

I have a few things that I've had on my mind lately. I have them on paper, but I'd like to type them up here. So, hang tight. I'm still around. I'm just doing it the old fashioned way more now.

Check back in later.

Take Care,
Mercy

P.S. Life is Sooooo good to me right now. God has been working in some awesome ways around here. Hope the Lords blessing is on your life too!!! As the song goes...God is great and greatly to be praised! :-D

My peace I give unto you.

2007-06-03T22:19:00.000-07:00

Nothing. Absolutely nothing. NOTHING. Should take away our peace as Christians. We have the Holy Spirit within us to comfort us. No matter what trial, problems, or issue going on outside of us should affect us inside. People may talk bad about you. Maybe you're not happy because of a situation going on. You may be wishing things were different. They are not. When we have a bad attitude it is only because we want something other than God's will for our lives. Meaning, we are so caught up in what we think SHOULD be happening that we miss out on peace. Of knowing that what is happening is what God has allowed for our good. Yes, it is hard to take. But, the truth is God is a good God. It is when we are unwilling to accept the situation in front of us, that we loose the precious peace from Heaven. Peace. The peace of God, which passeth all understanding! It is beyond comprehension. Do you have it? That blessed peace that only the children of God do? If not, you need to repent of self will. Repent for not believing and trusting that God's heart toward you is a heart of good. He has allowed this circumstance to be for you, to grow and mature. Be willing to yield to God. And when you do, the oh so glorious peace that God gives his own will fill you beyond comprehension. Won't you receive it today?

Psalms 62:5 ~ My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.

Be alive today!

2007-05-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

People don't remember who you were, they remember who you are now. Be who you need to be right now without dwelling on what you've been before. The past is past.

This also brings up something that has been on my mind a lot recently. It is so important to live in the right now. To really experience life as it is happening. The only way to do this is to quiet your mind enough that you are able to hear what the Holy Spirit is telling you. You know that Jesus Christ is real. You know that we are to be led by the Spirit, yet how many of us are really listening for Him? When we stop to be alive to the moment we are in, all of a sudden we are more clear headed. We make decisions more rationally. We will recognize that this moment we are in right now, isn't going to last for very long. When it's over, it's over. This moment is important. There is no going back. So, by living with our minds set on today, it actually sets our minds upon eternity. What we do right now matters, because it's all or nothing. We are not guaranteed another minute. With this mentality we will make right decisions, knowing that we will reap a consequence for what we do. How many of us just hobble along life without really thinking about what we are doing? We don't have too much time to make the impact we hope to make in this lifetime! The time is passing quickly and we need to be awake to experience it. There is something to the new age philosophy of being fully conscious. I don't believe that is all there is to life. But, God does want us to experience this life he's given us. I personally find myself caught up in thinking too much to even realize my life is set before me. My husband, my children, my friends, family, needy right down the street. This is for real. And, what I do today effects how my forever turns out. Clear your mind enough that you can experience right now to it's very fullest. If you allow yourself to feel the moment, in all of it's hurts or joys, your memory of it will last a lot longer. We tend to clamp ourselves off from whatever is happening, because of unforgiveness or bitterness that we've been harboring for way too long. When you have a heart that is angry you do not allow your feelings to be exposed. As women, we need to be in control of our emotions, but able to let them flow freely when appropriate. This is natural. The best thing of all is really thinking about TODAY, putting your all into today, knowing that This Day is a gift from above. Dance with your children. Laugh. You have the ability to make today the best it can be. Enjoy each moment as you live it out.

I also want to note that I used to have such a difficult time with HOPE. I never could get beyond the moment. When I gave my life to Jesus Christ I met Hope in person. He has given me something beyond myself to yearn for, to believe in, to rely upon. With Him, I know there is more to life than right now. I have since learned that when He created the world, He made certain dynamics to it. One is the law of sowing and reaping. With this, I can believe that there will be a consequence to my actions. Each decision will reap eventually. This can work for me as a blessing or a curse. I can rely on this, knowing my life really does make a difference, sometimes an eternal difference, sometimes a moment by moment difference. For instance, when my house is a wreck, I have a choice. I can either get disappointed and think that I have no effect on my circumstances or I can realize that I can make a difference on how my tomorrow will be. If I decide to rely on sowing a clean home, tomorrow I will wake to a nice house. This is a simple analogy of the law of sowing and reaping, but this works for larger things as well. We just have to believe that when we sow good seed, we will reap the harvest. Even if it seems that there is nothing growing yet. Someday, God will see to it that it does. I'm learning to live in my "new man" as I learn to not weary in doing good, because God's promises are true.

Philippians 3:13,14
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before{me - to experience}, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Back to the basics

2007-05-25T17:13:00.000-07:00

One thing I have been doing this week is thinking on some of the systems that worked well for our family that maybe we haven't be doing. Seems that since the beginning of the year we have been going & going and I hadn't really had the time to "get down to business" in our home. Turning the computer off for awhile has given me that time. :-)

As I thought about it, I knew I was having a laundry issue, but what were some of the things that were causing that? Purging is a must when you are overwhelmed. But, most importantly I learned that you NEVER move anyone away from where they undress/dress. All of us had this issue going on. Clothes were everywhere! I've since switched the bedrooms and now each bedroom has it's own laundry basket right next to the bed. I am going to be very diligent about our bedrooms from now on. This is one place that chaos can form without diligence. And, to me it's one of the most important areas! We need a sanctuary. Our rest should always be peaceful. This does not happen without taking care to address our bedrooms, daily. I've always been a big advocate about making sure our bedrooms do not have ANYTHING in them except a bed & clothes. That's it. (ok, maybe one thing that makes you smile too - for married peoples this needs to include something that is bonding!) This has been the only way I have been able to keep the rooms in order. I've tried having toys, storage, etc. in them, but it just does not work. You have to realize too, we do not have a whole lot of indoor storage, so this requires a sacrifice for me. It is worth it though to have a place of rest.

Another thing that I had gotten away from was my weekly work. I found myself neglecting so many things, not to mention always feeling behind. When I do my weekly work I tend to be ahead and much more prepared. So, back to each day having a particular job to work on.

Here's how my week goes. It's similar to most everyones, but it works for us...

M- Mom & Dad's Laundry
Ironing
Bedrooms
Floors

T- 7yo does his laundry
Chop Veggies/cook meat
Kitchen/Laundry room

W- Towels & Bathmat
Bathroom
Clean purse

Th- 2yo dd's Laundry
Shopping/Errands
Clean car
Outside/Entryway

F- Bedding
Notebook
Paperwork
Office/toys

Usually by Wednesday I'm behind. But that's ok, eventually I get to the end of the week. Those first two are really the most important. We need clothes & food, right? Anyway, I am learning to look to those things that DID work when I find myself struggling. There IS a reason. Always. We just need to find what the reason is, then we can solve the problem. :o)

Have a great week!

Breaking Free From Computer Addiction!

2007-05-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how to put this into writing, but I will try.

I've been off of the computer for an entire week. It has been a completely different week! It all just sort of happened so I wasn't able to really post to tell you all. I am planning to do the same this week. I will continue to check in every so often with a little note of what's on my mind. Isn't that really what blogs are all about? :-D

So, the benefits of not having a computer...

I have without a doubt spent more quality time with my children. That has been the biggest change that I have noticed. Before they seemed to be put in some ways on the wayside. Oh yeah, I would make sure I'd get the list checked off of everything I needed "to do" with them. And I would (especially if I wasn't on the computer) stop what I was doing to give them a hug, etc. But, what I have experienced this week has been wonderful! And I know my children think the same. We spent more time enjoying each other. I even got some exercise by jumping on the trampoline with them, which feels soo great!

Things were not perfect this week. I did not accomplish as many chores as I would have like to. I had a bit of an emotional problem. You know, hormones kick in and you go from feeling sad to happy in 2 seconds flat. So, that kind of threw me for a bit of a loop. Plus, it was just different. I found myself for the first few days whenever I got a break during my day, I would head for the computer. Thankfully in that moment, I didn't have to choose. My husband had the mouse. :-D I just would plop down with my babies and read or I would organize a project.

Besides the TIME I redeemed by making this decision, I also found my FOCUS was redeemed. I was able to spend my thoughts on "making my home." Not just on learning, or researching or whatever it is I'm doing online all the time. It seems like many times I'm trying to solve all my problems without working them out for myself personally. What I mean by that is reading & reading can only get you so far. You have meditate on what EXACTLY would work for YOUR home.

Then DO it.

I was able to do that this week without distraction!

I know not everyone out there has this terrible addiction to the computer as I do. But, I'm sure I'm not the only one. And, this week has been refreshing!! For me it seems to go in waves. I will have no problem staying off of them computer for awhile, but when I do get on, it seems difficult to get off. Even if I'm not on, I'm running back and forth to just check on something "real quick". But, adding the time up, it consumes more of the day than I'd like. I am so thankful that my husband has been willing to not look down on me in this area, but that we could work it out in laughter. :-D

If you struggle like I have in this area, you may want to try this option. Another option that I have tried in the past that does cut down on the amount of time you spend is putting the computer up higher on a shelf or something of that kind, so that you are forced to stand while working on it. Try it. It really does help. I found that since I was already in "action mode" I was pulled away from the computer a lot easier. There have been times I have thrown my arms up as I cried saying that I just wanted to throw the stupid thing out. When my husband first heard me say this he was very defensive, but he has come to see the damage that can be done if we allow it to rule our lives in any way.

I wish I could say that I am strong enough to "just say no", but it is a struggle for me.

Thankfully I have found a solution.

Maybe a little strange to some, but hey, whatever works!

Smart Habit Saturday

2007-05-13T23:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry this has taken me so long to get to. Yes, according to my clock in two minutes it will be midnight. Sorry I'm late.

I also have some bad news. I'm taking off this week.

I have seriously done so poorly that I'm just tired of getting beat up and embarressed. This week started off with a bang and I was loving my new habit. But, as usual my week got the best of me and by the end I was feeling pretty crummy.

So, I'm just going to take a break. I'm actually planning an even bigger bloggy break, but Sssshhhh, don't tell anyone. My next post is going to be on that. :o)

Have a great week to all those participating in Smart Habit Saturday!

Happy Mothers Day!

2007-05-13T23:40:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I know. As I'm writing this, it's almost midnight. So, I'm a little late. But, nonetheless, I hope you all have had a fantastic mothers day weekend!!

I did that's for sure.

Guess what I got?
Want a hint?

Awe, I'm tired. I'll just tell ya. (Ok, so the truth is, I couldn't think a good hint. You're right)

I thought about saying, "um, it rhymes with Fread Bechine", but I realized that idea was, well, dumb. And, that's when I decided to make the excuse of being tired.

Oh well. SO, did you get my lame hint?
I got a BREAD MACHINE!!!!!!!!!

Yes! My hubby is the best. Oh kay, it was from my kids, but you all understand. Somebody's gotta give them money & with money comes the idea of where to spend it. I love my family!

And, no, I still haven't made any bread. I can't wait tomorrow! We've been out all day & all of us have been talking about how excited we are to have some nice hot homemade bread!!!!

Yum. I can't wait!

How was your Mothers Day?

Must get laundry done...

2007-05-10T11:32:00.000-07:00

I have been dealing with this scary monster for far too long. But, it seems there is always something else taking my focus.

A sweet little old lady has started coming to our church just had a cataract surgery and her husband who has been in the hospital for 6 months is coming home today. So, she's struggling. And, I want to help her. I've spent a few hours just talking with her today. I had planned to go help her, but it turned out better for me to just stay here. Then there's my mom who needs some help getting some things done since she's had her surgery. AND, we are going to the high school to invite some kids to a church play we are doing Friday.

It's a constant struggle for me. I know my heart needs to be at home. I need to focus on the making of my family & keeping our lives together. Yet, it seems God continually sends situations in my life that take me out of my home.

Amazingly though, I have gotten a few loads done and a few things accomplished even in the mist of this confusion & chaos. SO, I guess we just take it day by day as things come & try to keep our focus. Right? Right. ;-)

100th Post - 100 things about me!

2007-05-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

In honor of the “thing to do” when you hit 100 posts, here is 100 things about me. (I can't believe I've hit 100 already!!)

100 Things about me Post.
1. I think this idea is a bit egotistical.
2. So is the idea of a blog in my opinion.
3. But, even still - I enjoy writing my thoughts out there for others to comment on.
4. I love my life, yet get discouraged easily about circumstances that happen.
5. I'm not as thankful as I'd like to be.
6. And I have SOO much to be grateful for.
7. I have a crush on my husband.
8. I miss him a lot & wish he were home more often.
9. Yet, I forget to be cheerful when he is.
10. My children are growing up faster than I want.
11. I am blond & blue eyed, size 9 (ha, I flux between 8-10)
12. I wear jeans. Yep. I know. If you stop reading my blog I understand.
13. I wish I wore more skirts.
14. My house has brake lights on it. LOL.
15. But, even still I am BLESSED for it.
16. I'd love to show pictures, but it's a scary world.
17. I'm an undercover organizer. I'm actually driven beyond sanity at times.
18. I am often nervous when there's a knock at the door because of the condition of my home.
19. Yet, people who visit with some notice would never know that.
20. I see birds - LOTS of them, out my window every day.
21. I often cry when looking at them because they are God's gift to remind me of all my blessings.
22. I like to write. A LOT. Too much sometimes.
23. I have a bazillion notes and charts & pages of schedules stuffed in a box.
24. I'm unorganized.
25. But, I get a “high” trying to make things work.
26. I try to light a candle & put on nice music before my husband comes home each night. And, it blesses all of us.
27. I love God.
28. I hate the computer sometimes.
29. I go back and forth about having another child, constantly.
30. My family lives nearby, which is nice.
31. I listen to talk radio too much.
32. I wish I could draw, bake better, and that I were more musically inclined.
33. I love the outdoors & wish I lived in a really GREEN area.
34. I don't. :-)
35. My son still hasn't seen the ocean.
36. I grew up vacationing all the time.
37. We rarely go on any type of trips.
38. We're planning a surprise visit to Disneyland sometime this year for my son.
39. My children have WAYYY too many toys!
40. Including a trampoline, swing set, outdoor playhouse, sandbox & bikes.
41. All of which has been given to us by others.
42. Almost everything we own, except our bookshelves, have been given to us or bought secondhand.
43. I've gotten too stuck-up though to purchase certain things secondhand.
44. And when I do, I am a freak about making sure it's clean.
45. I have a hard time talking to strangers about anything but the gospel.
46. My husband doesn't like me talking to men unless I have to.
47. I'm glad he's like that.
48. We believe in God's healing.
49. I've been healed by Him, more than once.
50. I can't sing too well, my voice cracks too much.
51. I love to worship God.
52. I love kids.
53. I miss watching kids in my home.
54. I love the benefits of a large family.
55. I was an only child.
56. I'm selfish & self-centered.
57. I am interested in learning more on natural healing.
58. I complain too much sometimes.
59. My hearts desire is to live an example of love.
60. But, it's a hard life to try to live.
61. My kitchen is VERY small.
62. Out of our 6 drawers, only one actually is working right.
63. Yes, my husband has tried to fix them more than once.
64. We don't do arts and crafts.
65. I love them though- maybe someday we will?
66. I get upset sometimes more than I paddle.
67. I want to be a better mom.
68. I'm proud of my son & really enjoy my daughter.
69. I love “tricks” that make life easier.
70. But I don't have enough to participate in Works For Me Wednesday.
71. Blogging takes more time that I'd like to spend on it.
72. And, I may not keep my blog around forever because of that.
73. I jump to change things without thinking too often.
74. I rearrange things at least once every few months.
75. We have lived in every room besides the kitchen & bathroom.
76. Yes, we were in the living room at one time.
77. I am thankful for our door now.
78. I judge others more than I'd like to.
79. I love reading.
80. I never read fiction.
81. I think it's useless and I try to keep my kids away from it.
82. Oh yeah, I'm that strange.
83. Even stranger, we don't own a TV.
84. The only thing I think I would actually watch consistently is the cooking shows.
85. I covet when I watch the home shows & I have to repent.
86. But, I still watch them to get inspired.
87. This month our family has been sleeping in until almost 9 each morning.
88. None of us like to sleep in, but the bed just feels soo good.
89. I love the idea of drinking tea and do every so often, but not regularly.
90. I drink coffee each morning while reading & praying.
91. I don't drink coffee if my husband doesn't make it in the morning.
92. My husband loves 80's music.
93. I grew up listening to hard rock and rap.
94. I only listen to worship music now.
95. I used to smoke weed and drink.
96. I thank God for His deliverance!
97. I didn't go to church when I was growing up.
98. I go to church at least 3 times per week now.
99. We have 2 cats, a dog, some fish & a frog.
100.I am out of things to say about me.

That was tough. And that's probably more than you wanted to know about who I am. Hope that helps put a "face" to who I am for you. Maybe some day I'll get brave and put a picture up. Who knows. :o)

Free Curriculum!

2007-05-08T23:40:00.000-07:00

I'm sure I'm the last to discover this, but...

Here's a full site developed for free Charlotte Mason style learning:
http://amblesideonline.org/index.shtml

I think I have actually been to this site before, but well, sometimes timing is everything if you know what I mean. I'm looking at different homeschooling methods & it just came along at a really good time.

For my pregnant friends...

2007-05-08T17:49:00.000-07:00

LOL!!

I just hope this makes your day.

First we have:

A Virtual Labor
Yep. Just to get you in the mood. Get you a little prepared for the action. Isn't that the funniest thing you've ever seen??

Then we have this:

Carrie The Caregiver
To remind you just how busy you will be in just a few short months. We won't go into the details of how sad it is that these poor little babies are run like machines in this fun little game. Nope. We're just working on your multi-tasking skills.

Enjoy!!

Oh, and a big huge Congratulations!

Life Talk Kids

2007-05-07T11:50:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to spread the word on Live365.com. It's an online radio station of sorts. Anyway, they have a ton of different types of music to listen to. I have found a really great station for kids and I wanted to pass it on. It's called Life Talk Kids. They unashamedly share the gospel throughout the day. They have music, stories to listen to and read from the Bible all day long. I love it!! So, here's the link for Life Talk Kids at Live365.com.

Today they had a story and I just used that story to help my son with his narration in homeschooling. After the story was done I just had him repeat to me what it was about as I typed it up for him. How easy is that to keep his mind sharp? :o)

P.S. They are having issues with royalty, so if you can help keep them alive please do!