A Trip to see Tim Hawkins

After watching Tim Hawkins videos for so long, we can finally say "we've seen him"!!   He was at the THSC Homeschool Conference in The Woodlands yesterday, so we packed up two boys and headed out to the concert.

(Collin and his friend Michael)

We had a great ride over with Collin in the backseat talking poor Michael's ears off.   I experienced technology at it's finest when I used my iPhone to put a status on FaceBook, asking where a good burger place was, so we could eat before the concert.   Within minutes I got a response back, so we found the place and had our first experience at SmashBurger.    YUM!  It was delicious!   I had a burger that was fantastic, but instead of fries, I had fried pickles with ranch sauce.   Amazing!   Hmmm. Tempting.  Pretty day - an hour drive......nah, wouldn't be fair to make David drive all that way again.     Oh well.  

When we got to the Hotel/Conference Center there was already a line (and we were about 1 1/2 hours early).   Thanks to a friend's good advice, we got in line and I'm glad we did.   Not too long after that, the place filled up and was packed.   Thankfully, we had a nice couple to talk to, however, I have to say that my nerves started to get the best of me when two pre-teen aged girls behind me kept bumping into me.   Their mom kept saying "sorry", yet the girls kept acting like they left their brains at home.   I have to add that this same family sat directly behind us, and while the son talked to the mom the entire concert (he was a teen), the brainless girls kept saying very loudly "that wasn't funny" everytime Tim Hawkins told a joke (which was all night).   So!  

It's like Murphy's Law........if there is going to be a talker, they will end up right behind me!  No joke!

Then there was the lady and her 4 teenage girls that just cut right in front of us, after we had been in line for about an hour.    They just weaseled their way up the side of the huge line and landed right in front of us.   I stood there looking at them for a minute, thinking they would realize that this was not a double line, you know, side by side, but the mom was too cowardly to look at me.   I couldn't help but wonder if she leads her daughters on other "rude" outings, like maybe shoplifting or something.   Great lesson to teach your children lady! 

Anyway, in spite of the two families that forgot their manners at home, we had a great time.   Tim Hawkins is hilarious!  Part of what makes him so funny are the facial expressions and the body movements he makes.   We literally laughed from the time he came out onto the stage, until he was done.   Never a dull moment.

So now Collin has seen Tim Hawkins and Michael Jr. in person and I know that thrills him.   Glad we can make our kid's dreams come true.   It wouldn't surprise me if I was watching Collin up there one day.

**Several hours before the concert, we dropped Ted off at church for a 24 hour bus ride to Phoenix.  He and 50 other kids and parents are heading to the National Fine Arts Competition (same thing he did in Detroit last year).     As I'm typing this, they are still driving!  Poor thing.   They will arrive in Phoenix today, rest, then hit the floor running tomorrow and go all week, competing in various categories.    He will have a long week ahead of him.**

Well, tomorrow we will welcome August to our lives.  That signifies the end of another summer for us.

Enjoy this last day of July folks!

See ya next month:)

An Addendum to "NO MORE BOOKS"

Well the first day of my new "no more books" challenge wasn't so bad.   But, that could be because I got a box of books in the mail, that was ordered last week!  FUN!

I have added one more aspect to this challenge and that is to keep a running list of books that I covet over the next 5 months, including the price, so that when the time is up I can tally up all the money I've saved!

Good luck everyone!

No More Books!

No More Books!

I bet you think I've lost my mind, don't you?   Well, maybe I did or have, but it's for a good cause!

I came across an inspiring blog yesterday.   The blogger had challenged herself to "no new clothes" for an entire year!!  I admired her ability and willingness to even try to deny herself something, much less follow through for an entire year!

So, I gave it some thought.........

I didn't want to try the clothes challenge, because I might really need something and I would end up breaking my own goal.   Clothes are sometimes a necessity!

So, instead, I decided to give up buying my biggest temptation ALWAYS.......books!

I put the challenge out to my Facebook friends and got many answers, but I think books won the most votes, for something people would NOT want to give up. 

My friend Anna had an equally addicting book habit, so she graciously agreed to take the challenge with me.   At least we'll have support!

So here's what we agreed to:

We will not buy any books, (except school books that are necessary), for the rest of 2011!   That is 5 long months!  

No, it's not a full year, but give us credit for trying.  

I'm looking forward to, not only catching up on the books I already have (quite a few), but saving some money too.

Are you willing to deny yourself one of your guilty pleasures?

It's Good For You

Sometimes the very things in this life that look the ugliest,

are the things that offer the most in life.

So,

 drink up!

"You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.  (Genesis 50:20)

Be blessed today!
Debbie

Life's Little Bumps in the Road

Sometimes life give us bumps to go over.  

It's inevitable.   

It's going to come down to choices and decisions and it's not going to be easy.    

But, you can do it!  

Just proceed with caution and if you need to be on a different path, 

God will be there to guide you.

"Bravery is not the absence of fear; it's going forward regardless of your fear."

"In the life of an authentic Christian, every obstacle becomes an opportunity."

"If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast."  (Psalm 139:9-10)

"The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you.  He will not fail you or forsake you.  Do not fear or be dismayed."  (Deut. 31:8)

Ways That I Can Understand

GOD is so GOOD!

Our pastor always prays that God would speak to us in ways we can understand.  It's such a fitting prayer for a God who cares about each individual He has created.    It's a prayer that means that God is big enough to know each of us so well, that He knows exactly what to do and how to speak, in order for us to really know it's Him.   I think, sometimes, we just don't pay attention.

With that said, God has always been faithful to speak to me through things I read.   It's been going on for years.  Sometimes He even adds a radio program to the mix, but most of the time He reaches me right where I am, and that is usually through reading.   Today is no exception.

A few days ago, a friend asked me if I would be a guest speaker at a gathering she's putting together.  (I don't want to divulge the details, because it's supposed to be a surprise.)    Of course, my immediate reaction was PANIC!  Public speaker, I am NOT!   However, I told her I would pray about it and get back to her.     

I've been praying and asking the Lord to give me the details of what I would say and asking for clarity on whether or not this was something I should even consider doing.    I just didn't feel like I could come up with enough material on the topic.     

Thankfully the thoughts started flowing and I began to get excited over the idea of presenting this material to a group.  But, of course, there was the small detail of getting up in front of people and presenting it in such a way that  made sense and wasn't a complete failure.

So this morning I was browsing some blogs, as I usually do over my first cup of coffee, and I came upon a post that skimmed over the subject I need to talk about.  I thought "great!"  a little help from a fellow blogger!   But, then, as I turned to my devotions and my Bible, I was even more amazed and I knew it was not just coincidence, but my awesome God, speaking to me in ways I can understand!

Here is the scripture He gave me this morning as I desired to spend a little quiet time with Him:

Do not worry about what to say or how to say it.

At that time you will be given what to say, 

for it will not be you speaking, 

but the Spirit of your Father

speaking through you.

(Matthew 10:19-20)

Ladies....

      God cares about your heart and your fears and your desires.   He wants to speak and He wants you to hear.   Listen for Him today.   Look for Him today.   Don't miss out on your personal message from the Lord today.  

Be blessed my friends!

A Beautiful Home and a quote from a bachelor

At the risk of making myself look bad, I'm going to quote something I heard on a reality show, that I really appreciated:

"True romance is finding pleasure in the everyday things."  (or something like that!)

Ok, I should be quoting scripture or great writers or anybody, just not guys off The Bachelorette, but it sounded good, so I'm taking it!

Anyway......the point is, he was on to something!  And his perspective about making the everyday things count, is just what I've been reading about in these two books:

My friend Lora (over at Finding My Voice)  shared these with me and I'm so thankful because they are wonderful books.

As a mom who used to be creative (I lost all creativity somewhere between morning sickness and terrible 2's),  I grieve the fact that I've lost that special touch.

When David and I were first married (it's been 22 years now), I would put nice, creative touches on everyday things.   I sent cards more.   I made homemade decorations and crafts and spent time pouring labor into my home.    Now I'm doing good to scrape the layer of dust off the TV before we have company!  But the point is.... that I've gotten too busy just doing the things I must, to get by, and have forgotten that a special touch can make all the difference.

Here are some examples from Living a Beautiful Life:

*Putting on a pretty apron when cooking and cleaning.  Have a collection of a few that you enjoy.
*Setting a small vase of flowers in the fridge, so that you get a pretty surprise everytime you open it.
*Using candles on the table when having leftovers.
*Only buying glasses you enjoy drinking out of; even if they don't match
*Writing notes to someone with a special pen, then sealing it with a drop of wax.


And some from Creating A Beautiful Home:

*Light candles in your entryway when time for family and friends to arrive.
*Make your livingroom look lived in, not like a show place.  Leave signs of life, such as a desk where you actually work, or books stacked on the coffee table.  People want to feel at home; not at a museum.
*Use decorative containers in the kitchen for oil and other cooking necessities.
*Use area rugs instead of carpet
*Create reading spaces in your favorite rooms
*Use colors that make you feel happy when you walk into a room
*Use lamps instead of overhead lighting.

These are just a few tips I've found so far, but you get the idea. 

The home and the rituals that take place within are what make up our daily lives.    If this place becomes mundane and boring, what good is that?    But, if we can take a few minutes each day to add a flower here and a pretty touch there, it becomes something that pleases the senses.  And, beyond what it does for our eyes, it's good for the heart.  It shows our family and friends that they mean enough to us, that we would go the extra distance and put in the extra effort to create a nice experience for them; even in the everyday rituals.

I want my home to be warm and inviting; a place where people can feel like they've stepped back in time to a place where life wasn't so crazy.    A place to feel at ease and comfortable.   A place where little touches spring up everywhere.  

I think I'll go put some biscuits in the oven or something.   And, of course I'll add a candle to that.

Until next time........
Blessings!

Getting Published - My Dream Come True

Ever have a dream, then look up one day and realize it has come true?  Such is my dream of being published!

Not for writing a great novel or  an amazing self-help book; not for any of my culinary skills or great organizational talent.   No, just articles about real life and how to rely on God for all the answers. 

I've now had my third article published and I am thrilled!

(These are the three publications)

My first article was published in the women's devotional Journey (published by LifeWay) in the January 2009 issue.    It was an article titled "God is that You?" and dealt with the subject of hearing God and knowing when He's talking to you.

My second article was called "The Winter Blues" in the 2011 Winter Issue of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.  Obviously, this article was on the subject of the winter blues and how that mindset affected my role as a homeschool mom.

Now my third article is out and you can find it in the August issue of the Texas Homeschool Coalition Review Magazine.   It is titled "Things I Wish I'd Known" and is on the subject of homeschooling and all the things I wish I'd known and things I've learned in the 13 years of teaching my children.  

Writing is a passion of mine and like any other creative outlet, it fulfills my need to be creative, but also to share my heart with other women.   It's my ministry and it's one way that God uses me to serve in His kingdom.

So I encourage you to reach for your dreams.  It may or may not happen as fast as you want it to, but push through the rejection letters (and there will be many) and push past the naysayers (you'll be surprised who those are) and go ahead and reach.     You won't be sorry and you might be surprised to wake up one day and find yourself smack dab in the middle of it all.  

Until then........

Blessings!

Getting Some Things Done

This week has been productive, which is how I like my life to be.   I function better when I have goals and purpose and can check things off my list.

I am especially happy that I went to CURVES three times this week, which is what my goal was.  I feel good about burning some calories!  And, lo and behold - I have felt muscles I haven't felt in quite some time! 

I also finished one of the books I was reviewing, so I'm done with that and can move on to my next reading adventure.   Usually I will alternate types of books, such as: read one "self-help" type book, then switch to fiction, then on to biography, etc.     Sometimes when I finish one, I will wait a few days and catch up on all the magazines that I have yet to finish.    I haven't decided what I will read next, but I'm leaning toward Shania Twain's biography. 

I have also accomplished a Weekly Chore List for the household (meaning me and sons).  I don't make a list for David, since he is a grown man and works circles around the rest of us anyway.   In addition to the household list, I made one for each boy, listing the specific duties that are their responsibilities only.   For now, these are posted on the refrigerator. 

Next week I will be working on Lesson plans.   First I have to organize the school bookshelves, getting all of our books for this year in the right place, then I can begin to work out the schedule and plans.   I will be preparing a syllabus for Ted, as well, using his College Plus plans for the Fall.

Tomorrow I am going to The Main Dish, which is a wonderful little place in town that will supply my meals for the next month!  If you've never heard of a place like this, it's a treasure for those times when your mind just can't wrap itself around even putting together a week's worth of menus and grocery lists.   Well, this is one of those times for me!    Taking a moment to ask myself what my priorities are, I realize that we have to eat, right?   But, menu making is a huge task for me, for some strange reason, and it takes a lot of mental capacity.   Being that I am expending alot of energy and mental strength trying to get organized and ready for school, I decided to let the meal planning go and take advantage of a service that is readily available.

Now, it's not like I don't have to prepare the meals or cook them; I still have to do both.   But, what I don't have to do is plan the menu or shop for the ingredients!  That's a huge bonus for me!

So, tomorrow morning I will be at the Main Dish Kitchen at 9am, preparing my 12 chosen entrees (and one dessert), hauling them home and placing them in my deep freeze.   Then each week, for the next month, I will pull out the three meals we want to eat that week, and place them in the fridge, adding sides, as necessary.     This will be a gift to myself, as I use my mind for other things. And, as long as I don't use bell peppers or creme cheese, the guys are good with it!

Tonight we will be at home, waiting somewhat impatiently for my 18 year old son to get home.  He and 5 other friends have been in Destin, Florida for a week.   I have missed him tremendously!   I don't know how moms can be so ready to push their kids from the nest!  (Talk to me in a few years; I may change my mind!)     Ted will have one week home and then he'll be off to the Nat'l Fine Arts Competition in Phoenix, AZ for another week.    That won't be a vacation for him, though.  He will have to work hard the entire week, practicing and performing.    This year he will compete in Choir, Small Ensemble, Christian Band, and Worship Band.    He will be on the go, to say the least!

So, I will treasure this next week; cooking and just being mom, before he takes off again and Collin has Music Camp for a week. 

Who said summer was relaxing?   I'm looking forward to the slow days of school, when my kids are my own, routines are going again, and everyone has a bedtime!

Until next time.......
Blessings and happy last few weeks!

Book Review - Money Secrets of the Amish

In 224 pages, Lorilee Craker has convinced me that the Amish have a thing or two, to teach us about money, and it has nothing to do with not having an electric bill.

In her book "Money Secrets of the Amish", Mrs. Craker takes us along on her adventure into the Amish community, where she actually spends time getting to know several of the families.   By spending time with them, as opposed to just interviewing them and regurgitating dry facts about their lifestyle, Mrs. Craker was able to witness the practical lifestyle firsthand.

 This book is a wonderful pairing of the author's sense of humor plus great suggestions on how to live a more simple lifestyle.   As Mrs. Craker shares the Amish ways of saving money and living frugally, she also translates those ideas into modern possibilities. She was faithful to implement as many of the Amish suggestions as she realistically could and shares her results with great humor and insight. 

One of the aspects I appreciated about the book was the recap at the end of each chapter.  She titled it: My Amish Money Makeover and would give a short synopsis of the chapter's main idea, then add a To Do: section on how to put the idea into practice in the modern world.    This allows a quick glance back when you want to be reminded of the practical application of the book.

Overall, I have gained some usable wisdom from these simple tidbits.  It's an easy, lighthearted book to read and Mrs. Craker's style and personality really shine through, making it even more enjoyable.
In fact, the next time I see her name on the front of a book, I just might have to pick it up and see what else she has to say. 

But for now, I may just have to Google the ingredients to Shoofly Pie and see what all the fuss was about.

Until then.......
Blessings!

How Secure Is Your Home?

Last Sunday we heard a brief  testimony by a man named Ken Freeman.  Although Ken is now a man of God and a fierce preacher of God's word, his life started out far from that scenario.

As Ken shared, he was abused by his mother as a child, had numerous step-fathers and was on the street drinking booze, by the time he was 10 years old, because it was safer than being at home.

To a mom of two boys - that kind of story breaks my heart.  I don't have the capacity to understand what kind of mother could cause her kids so much pain and not make the changes necessary to restore their lives, but obviously she was a very sick woman.   

When I hear this kind of story, it makes me want to grab my boys close and smother them with the love I have for them and tell them what a privilege it's been to be their mom. 

Which brings me to my subject today:  Security in the home and really, security in the family.

When I was reading Bristol Palin's book recently, there was one chapter in particular, that grabbed me by the heart and wouldn't let go!  In fact, I had to go back and read that chapter again, after finishing the book, because it just touched me to the core. 

The scene is one where Bristol knows she has messed up her life.  She's ready to go home; back to the people that love her, even though she knows that they are greatly disappointed in her choices. 

She describes it like this in the book:

"My home isn't perfect.  My family isn't perfect.  None are.  Even on that day, I realized I'd be returning to people like Willow, who would steal my clothes, and Track, who's fiercely protective, and Dad, who calls me stubborn, and Mom, who's sometimes impatient, and Piper, who uses her own saliva as hair gel, and Trig, who is so feisty."   (p. 210)

She goes on to describe the scene of surprising her mom with her return, the lecture she got first, then the hug she received second, but it was a reunion all the same.  And she continues:

"And that was that.  I'm not going to say that all was immediately forgiven, and certaily all was not forgotten.  This wasn't the Bible story of the prodigal son: it was a messy reunion, a tough reunion.  But it was a reunion, and we were family again.

Early the next morning, Dad showed up on my doorstep.  Even though I'd left the comforts of their home and betrayed them, he'd driven a huge U-Haul up from Wasilla and parked right in front of my door.  Behind him was every aunt, every uncle, and every cousin, no matter how distant, in my family.

Grandpa and Grandma even got out of their vehicle, took one look at me, and said,

"Okay, where are your dishes?  We'll pack those."

"When the U-Haul was finally loaded, Dad jumped in it and drove straight to Wasilla. 

I was headed to that imperfect house in that imperfect town.  

I was headed home." (p. 211-212)

And THAT is the chapter that brings me to tears every time I read it.    THAT's what family is all about!   It's not about being perfect; it's about being accepted - flaws and all.   It's about feeling secure and knowing that no matter how bad you mess up; there is always a place to come home to.   It's about being surrounded by people who love you and want the best for you; even if it means they have to be honest and tell you when you're wrong.   It's about sticking together, no matter what.

I was reminded of this concept of security yesterday when I saw our "little" rabbit in this box.   She has a large cage she lives in, but occasionally we like to put her on the back porch so she can move around freely and get some exercise.   However, although she was given a huge space to explore, she kept coming back to this little box, where I assume, she felt secure.   She would hop around and lay here and there, even getting into the dog house several times.  But, in the end, this box was her favorite place.    You could tell it was where she felt safe.   It must have reminded her of her home - a place of security and comfort. 

Is your home a place of security, where your loved ones feel safe?   Would they want to come back?  I think these questions are worth asking today. 

A Mother's Heart

Today is a new day.   I am up early, getting ready for my day.    My 18 year old is up too, packed and ready to go on a 5 day trip with 5 friends.   It's a bittersweet feeling to know that he's old enough to drive across the country and very capable; yet, I'm still his mom and it makes me sad to see him go. 

But, God is in control of Ted's life and since I trust God with my life, I know I can trust Him with Ted's, as well.

I'm starting my CURVES journey today.  I'm excited!  I need the weight to tone down and the muscles to tone up!  I'll be trying to stay mindful of calories too.   Wish me luck!

I started working on one of my goals Friday night - getting my home organized.   I started by cleaning out my files; throwing away SO many papers and receipts that I didn't need.   I was amazed that I had things in there that were 2 years old and just taking up space!    I still have my desk to organize, which I will work on this week, in addition to starting on my school bookshelves.

I'm actually looking forward to a week at home, with minimal activities.   No wonder I'm always behind!   I'm on the go too much!

Well, I'm off to start my productive day.   Hope you are too!

Blessings,
Debbie

Setting Goals - Break It Down Sista

(Ok, couldn't resist the "sista" in the title!  But, it has to be done in the right voice or it's not funny.)

Let's move on!


Over at The High-Heeled Housewife she throws out Part 3 of the Setting Goals challenge.   I read it and was trying to ignore it, but then I popped over to my friend Mrs. White at The Legacy of Home and she was mentioning something similar, so maybe it's meant to be:  Goals need to be broken down into weekly and daily "To-Do's".   Blah!

What's the big deal, right?   I make a To-Do list every day!  The problem is, I have managed to avoid the task of assigning certain tasks to certain days, because I NEVER follow through!  After awhile you just know your downfalls and you quit trying to fit yourself into that little square because it's a lost cause!

However, since I've already done Part 1 and Part 2, I really need to at least try Part 3 or I will be considered a quitter and that's no fun.  So while you are reading this crazy post (maybe my coffee's too strong this morning), I am obediently sitting at my desk, working on my weekly/daily routine. 

I'm plugging in activities that are a MUST, first,  (such as weekly music lessons, my time at CURVES, church, etc.)  then adding in daily chores (like laundry on certain days, grocery shopping, etc.) and trying to come up with an organized way of looking at my week.

Ladies have done this for years and I know I can do it; I just have to be disciplined.   I remember my step-mom always grocery shopping on Wednesdays because it was "coupon" day.     As a kid, it was something I could count on.    I think I have failed to give my kids those structured points in their lives, which I regret.    But, there's always tomorrow, so I'm off to accomplish this goal.  I WILL succeed!

Hope you're off to a great start on your own goal setting.     If you care to share, I would love to read about it!

Until next time......

Blessings!

Setting Goals - My Steps to "Getting There"

Yesterday I laid out my goals for this next year, according to the challenge presented over at The High Heeled Housewife.

Today I am breaking down those "long term" goals, into a few bite sized pieces, so I can actually work toward them, as the year goes by.  So here is my list from yesterday:

In a year from now I would like these statements to be true:
1.  I would like to be so disciplined that I never miss my quiet time in the morning (with the Lord).
2.  I would like to have every room in my house nicely organized
3.  I would like to be 20 lbs. lighter (yay me!)
4.  I would like to have an established menu and grocery list
5.  I would like to have at least 3-4 more articles published


Small Steps to "getting there": 


1. Not missing my quiet time
   a.  Establish a set wake-up time; same time each day
   b.  Have my desk cleaned off so I can easily work on my Bible study
   c.  Commit to not turning on the computer until I've spent time with God

2. Organizing every room in the house:
  a.  Start by choosing a different room each week and working to declutter that room
  b.  After decluttering, take an inventory of what kind of containers it would take to organize items
  c.  Tackle one area at a time, in each room, until the entire room is organized

3.  Lose 20 lbs!
  a.  Exercise at least 3 times per week (I start my membership at CURVES on Monday!)
  b.  Change my eating habits, little by little, until I have weeded out my weak spots (sweets & chips)
  c.  Drink more water and eliminate other drinks that contain sugar

4.  Establish a set menu and grocery list
  a.  Make a list of my family's favorite meals
  b.  Create a menu from all of our favorites
  c.  Create a grocery list from the menu

5.  Publish 3-4 more articles
  a.  Go through all the articles I've already written (they are in a file)
  b.  Make a list of the magazines I would like to submit the articles to (editor's name/address)
  c.  SUBMIT!  (It just takes time and effort!)


 Well, there they are!  Now that they are in print - I guess you all can hold me accountable, which I need!

I would love to challenge YOU to write your own goals and steps and link to my blog.   I think reading other's goals and ideas of how to reach those goals, can spur us on when we are needing a little push.

So get to writing!

And have an awesome day:)

Setting Goals

Over at The High Heeled Housewife she has challenged us to come up with some long term and short term goals.

Yesterday her challenge question was:
"What are 5 statements you would like to be true about yourself a year from now?"

Today the challenge is to write them down; breaking the long term goals into smaller, more attainable goals.

I'm embarrassed to say that when I attempted to do this at 10:00p.m. last night, the goals weren't flowing freely from my brain (my short term goal was to hit the pillow!) so I'm winging it this morning!

In a year from now I would like these statements to be true:
1.  I would like to be so disciplined that I never miss my quiet time in the morning (with the Lord).
2.  I would like to have every room in my house nicely organized
3.  I would like to be 20 lbs. lighter (yay me!)
4.  I would like to have an established menu and grocery list
5.  I would like to have at least 3-4 more articles published

These don't really look like much on paper, but they are the areas that I struggle with the most on a daily basis.

Tune in later to see them broken down into smaller bits.

Have a blessed day!

There's No Place Like Home

I never thought I would label myself as a "homebody" but I'm thinking of taking up that title.

After being gone for 3 days, I am so glad to be back to my little farmhouse and all the duties that lie within.    About twice a year I get an itch to go somewhere to "get away", but the rest of the year, I take great pleasure in running my household.

This house is my job.   It's my creative outlet.  It's my sanctuary.  It's the place where I get to serve and teach and minister to the people I love the most.   It's where I meet God the most and where He meets me.

After a 5 hour trip yesterday, from my aunt's to home, we walked in the door to find Ted and Sheri (my 18 year old and his special girl) fixing us homemade pizza.   What a blessing that was!   Not just to have a hot, home cooked meal waiting for me, but the sweet motive behind it.   I felt so blessed by that one small gesture of love.    That's what home is all about.

Today I will run Collin to VBS, pick up some groceries, doctor the dog's ears, do laundry, empty the dishwasher, vacuum the floors, and fix a few meals  and I will enjoy every moment.

Thank you, Lord, for this place I call home.   There's no place like it!

The Privilege

It's Monday morning and I'm sitting in a hotel room in Corpus waiting on a phone call from my Aunt.  I'll be spending the day with her, helping her finalize details for my uncle's memorial service.

At 1:00a.m. Sunday morning, my uncle Travis passed away.   His body had been taken, as well as his mind, by the much hated disease of Alzheimers.    He and my aunt had been married for 45 years. 

As I'm sitting here keeping myself busy with things I brought from home (and blogging), I am once again, so thankful to God for the privilege of being a stay at home wife and mom.  

It may seem strange to bring this up now, but I realize that God has blessed me with TIME.   If it weren't for this privilege, I would have a job to report to.   If it were during the school year,  my kids would have a school to report to.   My husband would be traveling alone at times.   But instead, I am able to pack a bag and drive 6 hours away to minister to a woman who has been an integral part of my life and I count that a privilege
.

Yes, I had to jump through a few hoops to make it all happen, like cancel several appointments, arrange care for the kids, horses, dogs and rabbit.   But those are minor things in the big picture of life.   

I feel blessed that God has allowed me a life where I can be available to people who need a hand.  Also, where I can travel with my husband and even pack up the kids and school books, when we need to.

As much as I dread the laundry on some days and the fact that I absolutely hate vacuuming, I woudn't trade this job for any other and I will always try and remember that this life is a privilege. 

So if you're a stay-at-home mom and you're in need of a little pep talk, here goes:
This life is a "get to" not a "have to".    Count your blessings and thank God that He has placed you where you are.   

You never know when someone will call and need you and you can say "Sure, I have time...."

Be blessed today,
Debbie

An American Idol - of a Different Sort

I love my "quiet time" with the Lord and I love that He's given us His word as wisdom and guidance, but I'm one of those people who works better if I have a Bible Study going on, to guide me through the life application aspect of what I'm reading.     Therefore, I'm always on the lookout for a good, topical,  Bible Study to work on in the mornings.

I had recently finished one (The Frazzled Female, by Cindi Wood), so I went to LifeWay in search of my next study partner; not having any topic in mind.    As I combed the shelves and the various books by various authors, one author, I noticed, definitely had the monopoly on the Bible Study area - Beth Moore. 

I'm not a huge fan of Beth Moore (did I just hear an audible "gasp"?)  Did I just say that outloud?  Yes!  That's what I said - not a fan!

I have nothing against Beth, as a woman,  I just don't care for her Bible Studies.

But, let me go back........

So, I'm at Lifeway and I'm praying on-the-spot about what God would have me study next, and I keep coming across the Beth Moore studies.   I've done several of hers, avoided several of hers, and I still have a few that might be options, although, not being a big fan, I'm reluctant to pick one up, so I keep looking.     Nothing is jumping out at me, for the simple reason that I wasn't really struggling in one particular area at the moment, so I really just wanted a simple guide through the scriptures.   However, when I came to Beth's study on the Life of Jesus, it caught my attention.    "This might do" I thought.   I mean, how can you embellish the life of Jesus, if you're just going through the scriptures, right?  (Embellishment is one of the aspects of her studies that I don't like). 

I bought the book and brought it home.

Fast forward about four days and the book is still sitting on my desk and I can't bring myself to start the work (not to worry; I was reading the story of David in 2 Samuel, so all was good with the quiet time).   Finally, toward the end of the week, I open it up and start by reading the Introduction and Day 1's lesson.    It literally didn't take even getting to Day 2, before I found it:  the embellishment and the speculation!   Ugggg!    But reading on and getting to the questions at the end of Day 1 brought even more frustration - stupid questions that don't even pertain! 

YES!  These are the things that keep me from doing Beth Moore Bible studies! 

**Now since this is not a formal review, I'm not going to supply quotes of what I'm talking about, but since it is my personal opinion on my personal blog, I will elaborate to the point that my memory allows. **

The first time I felt this way about one of her books was with her ESTHER study.    She embellished to the extent that it made me sick.  (Yes, that's an extreme description, but accurate. )    She added ridiculous speculation about the party going on, making a mockery of the term Bible Study and I felt it was so far fetched that I threw it in the trash after the first few lessons.

Same thing happened this time.    After she started speculating about Zechariah and what he was experiencing at the temple and then throwing out some ridiculous questions, I walked straight into the kitchen and tossed it in the garbage.    

Why so extreme?  It just didn't feel right.  

But, here's my point that I really want to make about this:

Some LOVE her studies and love her and that's ok - to a certain extent.   But, she has become more than just a good Bible Study teacher.   She has become an idol to some.    How do I know this?
Just ask a group of women at your local church and they will swoon over her name, like she's the Oprah of the Christian society.     Women hang on her every word, every embellishment.    They take what she says at full value, without much thought.   They assume that every work produced by her is truth.  And, they flock to her conferences, like she's giving away "her favorite things" (like Oprah).

Has God anointed her to speak to women?  It seems so.     Has he given her a gift to share with women?  It seems so.   However,  I caution those who are following her to such an extreme extent, that she is just a woman - flesh and bone.    She can be "off" some days and "on" other days. 

Besides that -we are called to read the Scriptures for ourselves and "not add or take away".     We need to be cautious about anyone who speculates and adds elements to God's Word, that haven't been recorded in History as "fact".    

But, even beyond the point of making sure the Scriptures are accurately portrayed, we just need to be careful about putting people on pedestals; elevating them to dangerous heights in our own mind (and theirs).   

I can think of people who have preached God's word for years and have remained known for the truth that they share; not for anything else.    In fact, the men I'm thinking of are calm and matter of fact - not even dynamic.  Yet, their teachings are solid.  

But, when you think of Beth Moore - there is a certain feeling of frenzy and excitement that comes along - like she's a celebrity in her field.    To me, that's where the caution should come in.    We don't need celebrities imparting wisdom to us about scripture.    God has given us that ability for ourselves, in that He has given us the gift of His Spirit, to interpret His Word, as we read and seek Him.

I honestly think this is how women are misled.  Can you think of any man that is totally enamored with another man's preaching, so much so, that he would travel for hours down the road, just to sit at that person's feet and soak up all he has to say?    I can't.

Ladies, I just say be careful.     Be careful about putting all your trust into another human - whether it's the pastor in the pulpit on Sunday mornings or Beth Moore coming "to a church near you".    God has given each one of us, as believers, His wisdom (when we ask), His counselor (Holy spirit), His time, His word - all at our fingertips.    

It's ok to read the work of others and gain a different perspective.   We all have a testimony, when walking with the King, on what HE has shown us and it's an awesome thing to share that,  in hopes that someone will come along and grow because of what God has done in our lives.    However,  we need to be sure we are hiding behind the cross and that the reflection people see when looking at us, is God, not some celebrity with all knowledge and wisdom.     No one is worthy of that status, but Jesus.

So for those of you who are Beth Moore fans, I apologize for stepping on your toes.   This is just my perspective and you can take it our leave it.   After all,  I'm just merely flesh and bone, giving an opinion.    I'm not a celebrity and I don't play one in real life.


Have a great weekend!

Books I'm Reading and Those in Waiting

I haven't done a Book Review in quite awhile, although I am currently attempting to read two books for review purposes.

I really should re-think this book review thing or maybe they should re-think me!  I absolutely LOVE to read, but I have my moods of WHAT I want to read at WHAT time.   So, although a book may look great at the time I choose it, by the time I get it in the mail, I can guarantee I've already moved on to something else, so I may not be in the mood to read whatever it is.   However, it eventually comes back around, so I get the job done - just not in a fast enough manner. 

What I mean is that sometimes I'm in the mood for a good fiction book, other times I might want (and need) a good Christian "self-help" type book.   Sometimes I'm in "school" mode, and other times I'm in a (need a miracle) money mode.   You just never know!

But one things for sure...........I'm always in a BOOK mode!

Here's a list of what I'm currently working on:

 This is an awesome book!  I originally purchased it on my iPad, but I wanted to highlight so many things that I ended up buying several copies so I could have my own, and pass them along to others.

 I actually just finished this book and have to say that it is, by far, one of the best I've ever read.   Love the Palins!

 This is a "review" book and I'm about half way through it.  It's an easy read and has some very practical tips about money and living a little wiser.








This one is also a review book and I've read the first few chapters but got distracted by the "Lion" book, so it's on hold for now.   But, I will read this one next and submit my review shortly:)

This is one I picked up at the Homeschool Conference.   It's full of practical tips on everything from menu making, once-a-month cooking, couponing, shopping, etc.    It's one that I go back to when I'm in "homemaker" mode.   It comes and goes!







Here are some that are patiently waiting for me on the shelf:
Going Rogue - Sarah Palin
Overton Window - Glen Beck
From This Moment On - Shania Twain
Trusting God to Get You Through - Jason Crabb

And too many to list!


I have a weakness for books!  It's one thing that I will never get tired of purchasing (just tired of storing them and I never want to move them again!)

So.........what's on your reading list?   I'd love to know.   I may want to read it myself!

Have a blessed day!


**Pictures courtesy of Amazon**

Not-Too-Far-Away Fun

We live about an hour and a half from one of the largest cities in America - Houston.  Yet, we don't take full advantage of all it has to offer.   The city is huge and the activities are plentiful (and the traffic is horrific - but that's another story).

So this week, while David is on vacation, we decided to take advantage of some of the culture in Houston, by spending the day there and seeing some of the sights.

 We started off at The House of Blues - a restaurant right in the heart of Downtown.

 It was very unique on the inside, with hand drawn pictures as the artwork and a stage with a velvet curtain.   They had a store inside the restaurant where we indulged in t-shirts, just for fun, and a trinket or two.   This cracked me up, because we looked like tourists as we loaded the counter with stuff to take home (80 miles down the road)!

 The food was delicious!    David and Collin had burgers and I, of course, had the BIG SALAD.





 NEXT STOP:
The Houston Museum of Natural Science

The first thing we saw when we walked in the door was this gyro ball thingy.   As we stood there watching a lady and her son go around and around, guess who begged to be next?

 

 That's my boy!

 Thankfully there was a lone 12 year old boy who didn't have a mom brave enough, so he and Collin paired up for the dreaded ride.

I didn't get any pictures in motion (David took video with my iPhone though) because I was too busy watching my son's face to see if I could detect any sign of "GET ME OFF THIS THING!"   But, to my utter disbelief, the boys were actually asking for "bonus" time and got their legal minute, plus 2 twenty second extensions!

Both boys did fine, although it did take Collin about 20 more minutes to get the dazed look off his face.   Ahhh, the memories!   We take him to the museum to learn about history and this will be what he remembers!

The main attraction, believe it or not, was not the gyro ball, but an exhibit about Texas History.   Of course, no photographs allowed, but it was a great exhibit.    It was plain and simple, but complete with cannons, guns, and trinkets from men such as Davy Crockett and Sam Houston.     Which, by the way, Collin noticed right away that Davy Crockett played the violin, which thrilled him.  He said one day he would come back and buy it from the museum.   I thought that was cute!    Anyway, we learned a lot as we walked through.  Even my husband, who knows more history than anyone I know, seemed to learn some things.   All in all, it was a great source of information.

After the museum we headed home, with our souvenirs from the House of Blues and our heads a little smarter from all the history.

I like these "stay-cations", as I've heard them called.   Not too far away - get home in a day!

Tomorrow we're heading to Avery Island, La. so I will be back to share all the fun adventures we have there.

Until then.......
Blessings!


This post is linked up to http://www.womenlivingwell.org for her Wednesday Link Up.  Go check it out!

Diffendoofer Day - A Homeschool Tradition

Our school at home would not be complete without this strange little book.

Introduced to our family about 10 years ago, I fell in love with the uniqueness of this book.   After all, as homeschoolers, we are unique!  

The characters are wacky and they each teach something  - with a twist:

Miss Bobble teaches listening,

Miss Wobble teaches smelling,

Miss Fribble teaches laughing,

And Miss Quibble teaches yelling.

Miss Vining teaches all the ways 

A pigeon may be peppered, 

And how to put a saddle 

On a lizard or a leopard.

But my favorite part of the book is the way it portrays the Diffendoofer School:

Our school is at the corner

of Dinkzoober and Dinkzott.

It looks like any other school,

But we suspect it's not.

I think we're learning lots of things

Not taught at other schools.

Our teachers are remarkable,

They make up their own rules.

As compared to the dreary Flobbertown school:

'Not Flobbertown', we shouted,

And we shuddered at the name,

For everyone in Flobbertown

Does everything the same.

 

It's miserable in Flobbertown

They dress in just one style.

They sing one song, they never dance,

They march in single file.

They do not have a playground,

And they do not have a park.

Their lunches have no taste at all,

Their dogs are scared to bark.

The students are confronted one day, with the bad news that:

All schools for miles and miles around

Must take a special test,

To see who's learning such and such,

To see which school's the best.

In the end the kids prevail and show that, though they were taught in a different way, they passed the test with "the very highest score" and they celebrated by declaring a holiday called "Diffendoofer Day".

It's a lot of fun to read this silly book and it's been our tradition to start each year off by sitting on the couch and reading it one more time. 

What traditions do you have for starting off your school year?

Media Monday Link Up

Courtney over at Women Living Well has challenged us to think about how the use of media is affecting our lives  (you can see the button to her page at the bottom of mine).

Her question today is this:
Media and Our Walk with God  


The affect that the media has had on my direct Walk with God is that it is a distraction.   For many years, the first thing I did in the mornings was sit down with my cup of coffee and pray and read my Bible.   Then, when I was finished with my quiet time, I would blog or write.   

But, over the past few years, my mornings have kind of taken on a new look, one that, if I'm not careful, can result in me getting caught up in Facebook or blogging, and no significant time with The Lord. 



 

What's Your Passion?

We have such an amazing God! 

He has created us in His image, which is almost incomprehensible.   He has given each one of us talents and gifts, creativity and passion.  And it's amazing that He had enough to hand out to everyone!

Talking with friends these past few days has given me a new appreciation for how unique everyone is.   If you really just listen to other people and hear with your heart, you can pick out their passions.  If you listen closely, not ready to spit out your own words, but just take time to really let them talk, you can tell when they get passionate about something.

I want to appreciate each one for who they are.  If I do that, then I can gain what they have to offer. Not meaning that I will become passionate about their passion, but I can learn from them and seek their advice, when I am lacking in that area.

Each of us has something to offer.

What's your passion?

Share Your Schedule

Ladies!

I know many of us have been thinking about our schools and getting things ready for the upcoming year.  I love this time of preparation, don't you?

One of my favorites things to hear about from other homeschooling moms is how they organize their day.  I love to know about scheduling the day, what subjects you do on what days, how many days a week you school, etc.    I want to know it all!!

So I would love for you to comment on this post and give me and the other moms an example of what your (ideal) day would look like (we know things never go as planned, but it's better to plan than flounder!).   This just helps us all to get new ideas and find other ways - in case we need help in one area or another.

If you don't have a blog, therefore you won't be able to sign in as a registered user - just post your comment "anonymously" and sign your name at the bottom of your comment so we can know who you are.

I can't wait to hear from you!!

Thanks a bunch!
Debbie

For 22 Years

From my husband

For 22 years:

I have been married to the same man.

I have grown up.

He has grown up.

I have become less selfish.

He has become less selfish.

I have been faithful.

He has been faithful.

I have given of myself when I didn't feel like it.

He has given of himself when he didn't feel like it.

I have sacrificed wants.

He has sacrificed wants.

I have forgiven.

He has forgiven.

We have walked through pregnancy.

We have endured sleepless baby nights.

We have endured the terrible "3's"

We have spoiled our boys.

We have loved our boys.

We have transitioned into tweens and teens.

We have wept over growing pains and lost seasons.

We have looked at each other with pride over our boys.

We have looked at each other with confusion over our boys.

We have maintained "the spark" in spite of our boys.

Today we celebrate was has been and what is to come.

I love you, David!

Love, your wife