Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Merry Christmas from The Shaw Family!
Well, the 1 week of Christmas was a success! We had a great week and made some great new family memories!
Last Wednesday, we had our family picture taken. I sent out our Christmas Card via email this year, to help save on stamps. I am sure that there were some who did not think this was such a great idea and thought it was impersonal and cold...but the 50.00 that it would have taken to mail out the 100 cards I emailed, was just not in our budget!
I thought I would post our card, and our picture here on my blog as well...It was so much fun to design the cards, and I have really enjoyed digital scrapbooking. What a fun hobby. :)
So, Merry Christmas from The Shaw Family!
Continue reading...
Last Wednesday, we had our family picture taken. I sent out our Christmas Card via email this year, to help save on stamps. I am sure that there were some who did not think this was such a great idea and thought it was impersonal and cold...but the 50.00 that it would have taken to mail out the 100 cards I emailed, was just not in our budget!
I thought I would post our card, and our picture here on my blog as well...It was so much fun to design the cards, and I have really enjoyed digital scrapbooking. What a fun hobby. :)
So, Merry Christmas from The Shaw Family!
If you click on the cards, you can see the larger version of them.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Meet Max...
Attempting to muster up a BIG Christmas spirit. For some reason, it just feels like any other time of the year. BAD... REALLY BAD! I, yes me, have only wrapped 3 gifts. Normally, they are all done by now. What is wrong with me?
So, Brian and I decided that we would do a 1 week of Christmas. Each day, we are purposely doing SOMETHING that is Christmasy.
Today, it was homade puppy treats. Instead of Christmas cookies, we are making doggie cookies for our dog loving friends.
Max, really liked the process ---thus the flour on his head! (Not quite ready for the treats yet...he is only 7.5 weeks old). So did the kids.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Loss yet Gain.
I really love that God always provides us with exactly what we need...at exactly the right time.
Today, was our 2 year anniversary of loosing sparkler.
I am forever reminded that I am a mommy to 13 children. It is just that 11 of them reside in Heaven instead of Earth. I share my earthly birthday with my sparkler's heavenly one. While in my finite mind, I see loosing a child as just that... a loss. BUT, through God's loving goodness, I can see my child as a gift. A gift that has drawn me closer to my mighty Lord. Through darkness...we see His light.
Today was my 31st birthday.
I am grateful for a very non-eventful year. Ok, so it was eventful in some ways. lol. I mean, Brian was laid off...and we have been interviewing everywhere under the sun. And I started my coupon business... What was I saying again? Non-eventful. Never mind. :P Seriously. These events have been so small, because God has provided all that I need to handle the situation! Exciting to see how that works!
Saturday we lost our precious Maggie dog. She was hit by a car, and it truly crushed us. But, once again...we drew closer to the Lord. I know it sounds corny thinking of a puppy dying drawing you closer to the Lord, but it did. Anytime that you are willing to allow God to teach you in situations...He will. We learned some big lessons, and I plan on adding them (as well as a few pictures of Mags).
Monday we adopted Mighty Max. He has captured our hearts beyond words. God gave us a wonderful gift by allowing Max to be apart of our life. He started healing our hurts. Max is a 5 week old Chocolate Lab. It doesn't get much cuter than that. I will add pictures of him as well.
Over all lesson learned...When we feel as though we have lost something, God gives us gain. We may so not like the gain at first. We may not see the justification of the gain. But that is just us being "human". Once you look back on that picture that God is painting, you can count your loss as gain. Simply Beautiful how He makes all things good. His good that is.
Continue reading...
Today, was our 2 year anniversary of loosing sparkler.
I am forever reminded that I am a mommy to 13 children. It is just that 11 of them reside in Heaven instead of Earth. I share my earthly birthday with my sparkler's heavenly one. While in my finite mind, I see loosing a child as just that... a loss. BUT, through God's loving goodness, I can see my child as a gift. A gift that has drawn me closer to my mighty Lord. Through darkness...we see His light.
Today was my 31st birthday.
I am grateful for a very non-eventful year. Ok, so it was eventful in some ways. lol. I mean, Brian was laid off...and we have been interviewing everywhere under the sun. And I started my coupon business... What was I saying again? Non-eventful. Never mind. :P Seriously. These events have been so small, because God has provided all that I need to handle the situation! Exciting to see how that works!
Saturday we lost our precious Maggie dog. She was hit by a car, and it truly crushed us. But, once again...we drew closer to the Lord. I know it sounds corny thinking of a puppy dying drawing you closer to the Lord, but it did. Anytime that you are willing to allow God to teach you in situations...He will. We learned some big lessons, and I plan on adding them (as well as a few pictures of Mags).
Monday we adopted Mighty Max. He has captured our hearts beyond words. God gave us a wonderful gift by allowing Max to be apart of our life. He started healing our hurts. Max is a 5 week old Chocolate Lab. It doesn't get much cuter than that. I will add pictures of him as well.
Over all lesson learned...When we feel as though we have lost something, God gives us gain. We may so not like the gain at first. We may not see the justification of the gain. But that is just us being "human". Once you look back on that picture that God is painting, you can count your loss as gain. Simply Beautiful how He makes all things good. His good that is.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Man of Sorrows...
This week has been a rough week for some of my closest friends. I hurt for them in deepest parts of my soul. So, I chose to study this particular Glory of Christ for this weekend.
Man of Sorrows... Bittersweet beautiful.
Here is an article that I thought I would add to my own current thoughts.
Written by: Ray C. Stedman
The thought that God himself, would manifest himself as a human, so that HE could carry our sorrow. What love. He held all the beauties of the world in the palm of His had, but because of His never ending love for us, He came to Earth to carry our hurts. When I think of this, I am forever grateful. I can lean on a Savior, because He has been there.
You know how a friend tries to offer advice when you are hurting, and it just doesn't feel right...b/c they have never been there? We can never say that with Christ. He has endured every bit of pain that we could possibly imagine. He has carried all of the hurts of the world inside of His heart. All of the sins that we have committed, He bore in His innermost parts. Imagine that yucky feeling. Shivers.
Man of Sorrows...may I never loose the gratefulness that I am experiencing right now. May I never forget that HE knows my pain, He bore my pain, and He has risen so that my pain becomes gain! Praise Him!
Continue reading...
Man of Sorrows... Bittersweet beautiful.
Here is an article that I thought I would add to my own current thoughts.
Written by: Ray C. Stedman
He was truly "a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief." There is no record in Scripture that Jesus ever laughed. I think he did laugh, for you cannot read some of his parables, or some of the things he said to his disciples, without sensing a smile on his face or hearing a chuckle in his voice. But there is no account that he ever laughed. He was "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief."
We must remember that all through his boyhood, and even into his manhood, he was pursued by nasty cracks about his birth, inferring that he was an illegitimate son, born to a faithless maiden who had broken her vow of betrothal. His brothers misunderstood him and did not believe in him. They were embarrassed at some of the things he said and did. It was not until after the resurrection that they believed in him. He was called a drunkard and a glutton, and was said to be possessed by a devil. He was called a Samaritan, a disparaging term. He had no home to go to. He said himself, "Foxes have holes, birds have their nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head," (Matt 8:20, Luke 9:50). Sometimes his disciples left him alone to go about their business, but he had to go out to the Garden of Gethsemane and sleep alone beneath the o lives trees. He became at one point "Public Enemy No. 1." In the weeks before his crucifixion the Pharisees offered a reward to anyone who would turn him in. Surely he was rejected of men!The thought that God himself, would manifest himself as a human, so that HE could carry our sorrow. What love. He held all the beauties of the world in the palm of His had, but because of His never ending love for us, He came to Earth to carry our hurts. When I think of this, I am forever grateful. I can lean on a Savior, because He has been there.
You know how a friend tries to offer advice when you are hurting, and it just doesn't feel right...b/c they have never been there? We can never say that with Christ. He has endured every bit of pain that we could possibly imagine. He has carried all of the hurts of the world inside of His heart. All of the sins that we have committed, He bore in His innermost parts. Imagine that yucky feeling. Shivers.
Man of Sorrows...may I never loose the gratefulness that I am experiencing right now. May I never forget that HE knows my pain, He bore my pain, and He has risen so that my pain becomes gain! Praise Him!
Monday, November 23, 2009
He is...
Yesterday, Pastor Trey (along with several others), shared a reading type performance for us. It was beautiful. Very different than what our normal service is like, and somewhat on the dramatic flare, but impacting to my heart. The reading was based on the Glories of Christ, taken from the John MacArthur NKJV study Bible. I have been desiring to start a study on the Glories of Christ for the Christmas season. This reading helped me kick it in gear! So, I am posting the original list on here, and will be coming back to write some of my thoughts on individual glories...
• Jesus Christ is completely sufficient for all matters of life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3-4)
• Sufficient for creation (Colossians 1:16-17)
• He is our salvation (Hebrews 10:10-12)
• He is our sanctification (Ephesians 5:26-27)
• He is our glorification (1 John 3:2)
• So pure is He that there is no blemish, stain, spot of sin, defilement, lying, deception, corruption, error or imperfection in Him (1 Peter 1:18-20)
• There is no other God besides Him (Isaiah 45:5)
• He is the only begotten Son (John 1:14,18)
• All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in Him (Colossians 2:3)
• All the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in Him (Colossians 2:9)
• He is heir of all things (Hebrews 1:2)
• He created all things and all things were made by Him, through Him and for Him (Colossians 1:16-17)
• He upholds all things by the word of His power (Hebrews 1:3)
• He is the first-born of all creation (Colossians 1:15)
• He is the exact representation of God (Hebrews 1:3)
• He is the only Mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 1:5)
• He is the Son that enlightens (Hebrews 1:3)
• the Physician that heals (Luke 4:23-24; 5:31)
• the Wall of Fire that defends (Exodus 13:21)
• the Friend that comforts (John 15:14-15)
• the Pearl that enriches (Matthew 13:45-46)
• the Ark that supports (Genesis 6:18; Revelation 11:19)
• and the Rock to sustain under the heaviest of pressures (Deuteronomy 32:18; 1 Corinthians 10:4)
• He is the Deliverer (Romans 11:26)
• He is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty on high (Acts 2:34; Hebrews 1:3; 8:1)
• He is better than the angels (Hebrews 1:4-14)
• He is better than Moses (Hebrews 3:3); better than Aaron (5:1-10); better than Joshua (4:8); better than Melchizedek (7:1-3); better than all the prophets (Ephesians 2:20; Hebrews 1:1)
• He is greater than Satan (Luke 4:1-12; John 14:30)
• He is stronger than death (1 Corinthians 15:55; Hebrews 2:14)
• He is the First and the Last (Revelation 1:17-18)
• He is the Lamb of God (John 1:29)
• He is our peace (Ephesians 2:14)
• He is our hope (1 Timothy 1:1)
• He is our Life (Colossians.3:4)
• He is the Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14:6)
• He is the Strength of Israel (1Samuel 15:29)
• He is the Root and Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star (Revelation 22:16)
• He is Faithful and True (Rev. 19:11)
• He is the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2)
• He is the Captain of our Salvation (Hebrews 2:10)
• He is the Champion (Isaiah 19:20)
• He is the Elect One (Isaiah 42:1)
• He is the Apostle and High Priest of our confession (Hebrews 3:1)
• He is the Righteous Servant (Isaiah 53:11)
• He is the Lord of Hosts, the Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, the God of the whole earth (Isaiah 54:5)
• He is the Man of Sorrows (Isaiah 53:3)
• He is the Light (John 1:7; 1 John 1:5)
• He is the Son of Man (Matthew 20:28)
• He is the Vine (John 15:5)
• He is the Bread of Life (John 6:48)
• He is the Door (John 10:7)
• He is Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36; Philippians 2:10-13)
• He is Prophet, Priest and King (Hebrews 1:1-3)
• He is our Sabbath rest (Hebrews 4:9)
• He is our Righteousness (Jeremiah 23:6; 1 Corinthians 1:30) people
• He is the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)
• He is the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4)
• He is Lord God of hosts (Isaiah 47:4)
• He is King of the nations (Jeremiah 10:7; Revelation 15:3)
• He is the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5)
• The Word of God (John 1:1; Revelation 19:13)
• the Rock of Salvation (Psalm 62:2; 89:26; 95:1)
• the Rock of Israel (Isaiah 30:29)
• the Eternal Spirit (Hebrews 9:14)
• He is the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:9)
• Creator and Comforter (1 Peter 4:19; Isaiah 43:1; John 16:7)
• Messiah (John 1:41)
• and He is the great I AM (John 8:58)
Continue reading...
-Compiled by Steven Camp-
• Sufficient for creation (Colossians 1:16-17)
• He is our salvation (Hebrews 10:10-12)
• He is our sanctification (Ephesians 5:26-27)
• He is our glorification (1 John 3:2)
• So pure is He that there is no blemish, stain, spot of sin, defilement, lying, deception, corruption, error or imperfection in Him (1 Peter 1:18-20)
• There is no other God besides Him (Isaiah 45:5)
• He is the only begotten Son (John 1:14,18)
• All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in Him (Colossians 2:3)
• All the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in Him (Colossians 2:9)
• He is heir of all things (Hebrews 1:2)
• He created all things and all things were made by Him, through Him and for Him (Colossians 1:16-17)
• He upholds all things by the word of His power (Hebrews 1:3)
• He is the first-born of all creation (Colossians 1:15)
• He is the exact representation of God (Hebrews 1:3)
• He is the only Mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 1:5)
• He is the Son that enlightens (Hebrews 1:3)
• the Physician that heals (Luke 4:23-24; 5:31)
• the Wall of Fire that defends (Exodus 13:21)
• the Friend that comforts (John 15:14-15)
• the Pearl that enriches (Matthew 13:45-46)
• the Ark that supports (Genesis 6:18; Revelation 11:19)
• and the Rock to sustain under the heaviest of pressures (Deuteronomy 32:18; 1 Corinthians 10:4)
• He is the Deliverer (Romans 11:26)
• He is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty on high (Acts 2:34; Hebrews 1:3; 8:1)
• He is better than the angels (Hebrews 1:4-14)
• He is better than Moses (Hebrews 3:3); better than Aaron (5:1-10); better than Joshua (4:8); better than Melchizedek (7:1-3); better than all the prophets (Ephesians 2:20; Hebrews 1:1)
• He is greater than Satan (Luke 4:1-12; John 14:30)
• He is stronger than death (1 Corinthians 15:55; Hebrews 2:14)
• He is the First and the Last (Revelation 1:17-18)
• He is the Lamb of God (John 1:29)
• He is our peace (Ephesians 2:14)
• He is our hope (1 Timothy 1:1)
• He is our Life (Colossians.3:4)
• He is the Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14:6)
• He is the Strength of Israel (1Samuel 15:29)
• He is the Root and Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star (Revelation 22:16)
• He is Faithful and True (Rev. 19:11)
• He is the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2)
• He is the Captain of our Salvation (Hebrews 2:10)
• He is the Champion (Isaiah 19:20)
• He is the Elect One (Isaiah 42:1)
• He is the Apostle and High Priest of our confession (Hebrews 3:1)
• He is the Righteous Servant (Isaiah 53:11)
• He is the Lord of Hosts, the Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, the God of the whole earth (Isaiah 54:5)
• He is the Man of Sorrows (Isaiah 53:3)
• He is the Light (John 1:7; 1 John 1:5)
• He is the Son of Man (Matthew 20:28)
• He is the Vine (John 15:5)
• He is the Bread of Life (John 6:48)
• He is the Door (John 10:7)
• He is Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36; Philippians 2:10-13)
• He is Prophet, Priest and King (Hebrews 1:1-3)
• He is our Sabbath rest (Hebrews 4:9)
• He is our Righteousness (Jeremiah 23:6; 1 Corinthians 1:30) people
• He is the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)
• He is the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4)
• He is Lord God of hosts (Isaiah 47:4)
• He is King of the nations (Jeremiah 10:7; Revelation 15:3)
• He is the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5)
• The Word of God (John 1:1; Revelation 19:13)
• the Rock of Salvation (Psalm 62:2; 89:26; 95:1)
• the Rock of Israel (Isaiah 30:29)
• the Eternal Spirit (Hebrews 9:14)
• He is the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:9)
• Creator and Comforter (1 Peter 4:19; Isaiah 43:1; John 16:7)
• Messiah (John 1:41)
• and He is the great I AM (John 8:58)
Friday, November 6, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
A Thousand Songs
Lord, You’re calling me to come
And behold the wondrous cross
To explore the depths of grace
That came to me at such a cost
Where Your boundless love
Conquered my boundless sin
And mercy’s arms were opened wide
My heart is filled with a thousand songs
Proclaiming the glories of Calvary
With every breath, Lord how I long
To sing of Jesus who died for me
Lord, take me deeper
Into the glories of Calvary
Sinners find eternal joy
In the triumph of Your wounds
By our Savior’s crimson flow
Holy wrath has been removed
And Your saints below
Join with your saints above
Rejoicing in the Risen Lamb
Do you ever find your love and relationship with God makes you feel like a thousand songs are BURSTING out of your heart? Love that feeling.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Unconditional Love
Isn't it cool how dogs love you unconditionally. Do you think this is why they are man's best friend?
Continue reading...
WILD THINGS
On Friday night we met up with Mom and Dad Shaw
And saw "Where the Wild Things Are."
Of course there was Max and a whole slew of Beast,
Somewhat disappointing to say the least
But, we got these cool crowns, wore very few frowns
And made a good memory together.
And saw "Where the Wild Things Are."
Of course there was Max and a whole slew of Beast,
Somewhat disappointing to say the least
But, we got these cool crowns, wore very few frowns
And made a good memory together.
Can You Say Iconic?
Pure Yumminess and Quite Iconic. Individual Apple Pies.
Made in Apple Dishes.
On an American Flag Plate.
Does life get any better than this?
Made in Apple Dishes.
On an American Flag Plate.
Does life get any better than this?
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Michigan Trip...
We had an awesome time in Michigan last weekend. It is a beautiful area and we really loved the people too. Still praying about what God might have there.
In the meantime, I thought I would share a few picts.
On our way home from Michigan, we swung by Chicago. It was Abbie's first trip to
The American Girl Place.
Out of all the cool things in the store, Abbie wanted to read.
This is what her BIG purchase was, a Book!
She could not wait to get into the Library part of the Store!
This was one of the outfits that she modeled in the Fashion Show.
The day we went, was "Meet Rebekah Day". They had crafts and other goodies.
Continue reading...
In the meantime, I thought I would share a few picts.
They had a South Bend Chocolate Cafe. YUM... Notice that there is an apartment for rent above it! Wouldn't that be the best place ever to live? Seriously.
After the car ride, we thought we would allow the kids to burn some energy. It was stinking cold, but they still liked the fact that they were on "The Beach".
On our way home from Michigan, we swung by Chicago. It was Abbie's first trip to
The American Girl Place.
It was love.
Out of all the cool things in the store, Abbie wanted to read.
This is what her BIG purchase was, a Book!
She could not wait to get into the Library part of the Store!
This was one of the outfits that she modeled in the Fashion Show.
The day we went, was "Meet Rebekah Day". They had crafts and other goodies.
Abbie Won!
So, this is 1.5 weeks late. Sorry!
BUT, Abbie won her fundraising contest for The American Girl Fashion Show!
She was thrilled...here are some pictures:
Continue reading...
BUT, Abbie won her fundraising contest for The American Girl Fashion Show!
She was thrilled...here are some pictures:
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Some Pictures...
Not a ton, but I owe Lisa as I have still yet to get back with her! Hi Lisa...I love you!!!
Abbie and Isaac with their Miss Jamie
Recently, my Grandma came up from Florida. We all went to The Ayres Tea Room for lunch. I remember going with my mom when I was a little girl. It is a VERY special tradition that true Indianapolis lovers MUST experience. Abbie took Samantha with her. And Samantha was treated quite well!
Continue reading...
Pretty huh?
Abbie and Isaac with their Miss Jamie
Sweet Girls...kind of.
Recently, my Grandma came up from Florida. We all went to The Ayres Tea Room for lunch. I remember going with my mom when I was a little girl. It is a VERY special tradition that true Indianapolis lovers MUST experience. Abbie took Samantha with her. And Samantha was treated quite well!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
A long awaited update...
My life. It has been a very Busy. Blessed. Beautiful.
Here is a quick...or not so quick update on our little family. Pictures will follow, but currently, I can not find my memory card. Is that really surprising??? So...here we go....
Me:
I have been enjoying a super sweet time with the Lord lately. Devotions, Prayer time, and Worship have been truly been the heartbeat of each day. I am thankful for the times like these. They pull you through the times when you are not as close as you should be. Know what I mean?
Also, I am loving my little coupon business! It has been blossoming with opportunities! If things go as planned, we could possibly be booked solid through the first of the year! Amazing Provision!
The school year has begun, and it is turning into my absolute favorite time of the year. Brian and I chuckled that 6 friends told me this week that they think of me and miss me most in the fall. This season has imprinted itself into my being. I love how God can mold one's personality out of a season. I am treasuring these days. Possibly the last fall I will spend watching my Red tree out front.
Brian:
Brian is still staying busy seeking and searching for God's next place for us. It is amazing to watch the Lord work in your spouse's life as they grow. It is not always a pleasant thing to stand back and watch. With growth, there is toil and heartache. Brian has had to pull through the toil to see the way to grow. But Praise the Lord that He is faithful in growing His children!
Brian is also excited to have some opprotunities to preach!
Abbie:
Mmmmm....Abbie has been the busiest of all of us. (Well except for Brian and I driving her around!) Abs started the 3rd grade this fall. She also started going to a homeschool co-op, which she loves! As you probably read earlier, Abbie was chosen to be an American Girl model. This is such a huge thing to her.
Little Fun Fact about Abbie: She has only lost one of her two front teeth! It has been a year since her first one fell out.
Abbie Funny: One night, (yes night) there was a rainbow in the sky after church. Abbie was outside with Pastor Trey and they were talking about Noah. Abbie told Pastor Trey: "Pastor Trey, I am so glad that Noah built the Ark...so we can have rainbows." lol
Isaac:
Isaac is still the funniest little kid. He is working on his K4, but really is finished with most of the work. He too started Homeschool Co-op! Isaac's life currently consists of GI Joes, Skateboarding, watching UFC with Brian, and Secret Clubs. He is really working on obeying the first time, and calling back to us, "Coming Mom". He is getting so big.
Little Fun Fact about Isaac: Isaac is 2.5 inches taller than Abbie at age 4. We know this b/c Abs started Kindergarten close to Isaac's age. She was 40lbs and 40 inches. Isaac is 35 lbs and 42.5 inches! lol. My string green bean.
Isaac Funny: One day we took him to Olive Garden. As he was looking around at the ambience, he said, "Someday, when I grow up and get married, I am going to bring Claire here. And I am going to kiss her, but only if she wants me to." One year later, Isaac still believes that he will marry Claire, but not kiss her till they get married.
AND....Adding MAGGIE!
We have adopted an adorable little girl. She is half dalmation half lab. 100% CRAZY! It has been so much fun to watch her grow and learn. She is Brian's little sweet girl, and insists on sleeping near him whenever she can. She even runs with him now. Which is his favorite part of owning a dog.
So...there is our family. For this week. Next week...all could change. Isn't that fun?
Continue reading...
Here is a quick...or not so quick update on our little family. Pictures will follow, but currently, I can not find my memory card. Is that really surprising??? So...here we go....
Me:
I have been enjoying a super sweet time with the Lord lately. Devotions, Prayer time, and Worship have been truly been the heartbeat of each day. I am thankful for the times like these. They pull you through the times when you are not as close as you should be. Know what I mean?
Also, I am loving my little coupon business! It has been blossoming with opportunities! If things go as planned, we could possibly be booked solid through the first of the year! Amazing Provision!
The school year has begun, and it is turning into my absolute favorite time of the year. Brian and I chuckled that 6 friends told me this week that they think of me and miss me most in the fall. This season has imprinted itself into my being. I love how God can mold one's personality out of a season. I am treasuring these days. Possibly the last fall I will spend watching my Red tree out front.
Brian:
Brian is still staying busy seeking and searching for God's next place for us. It is amazing to watch the Lord work in your spouse's life as they grow. It is not always a pleasant thing to stand back and watch. With growth, there is toil and heartache. Brian has had to pull through the toil to see the way to grow. But Praise the Lord that He is faithful in growing His children!
Brian is also excited to have some opprotunities to preach!
Abbie:
Mmmmm....Abbie has been the busiest of all of us. (Well except for Brian and I driving her around!) Abs started the 3rd grade this fall. She also started going to a homeschool co-op, which she loves! As you probably read earlier, Abbie was chosen to be an American Girl model. This is such a huge thing to her.
Little Fun Fact about Abbie: She has only lost one of her two front teeth! It has been a year since her first one fell out.
Abbie Funny: One night, (yes night) there was a rainbow in the sky after church. Abbie was outside with Pastor Trey and they were talking about Noah. Abbie told Pastor Trey: "Pastor Trey, I am so glad that Noah built the Ark...so we can have rainbows." lol
Isaac:
Isaac is still the funniest little kid. He is working on his K4, but really is finished with most of the work. He too started Homeschool Co-op! Isaac's life currently consists of GI Joes, Skateboarding, watching UFC with Brian, and Secret Clubs. He is really working on obeying the first time, and calling back to us, "Coming Mom". He is getting so big.
Little Fun Fact about Isaac: Isaac is 2.5 inches taller than Abbie at age 4. We know this b/c Abs started Kindergarten close to Isaac's age. She was 40lbs and 40 inches. Isaac is 35 lbs and 42.5 inches! lol. My string green bean.
Isaac Funny: One day we took him to Olive Garden. As he was looking around at the ambience, he said, "Someday, when I grow up and get married, I am going to bring Claire here. And I am going to kiss her, but only if she wants me to." One year later, Isaac still believes that he will marry Claire, but not kiss her till they get married.
AND....Adding MAGGIE!
We have adopted an adorable little girl. She is half dalmation half lab. 100% CRAZY! It has been so much fun to watch her grow and learn. She is Brian's little sweet girl, and insists on sleeping near him whenever she can. She even runs with him now. Which is his favorite part of owning a dog.
So...there is our family. For this week. Next week...all could change. Isn't that fun?
Welcome Sweet One...
My dear friend Niki--- Also known as The Snowman Lady---Also known to my munchkins as the McDonalds Lady-- Has some big news!
She is in the process of adopting a beautiful little girl. Little girl was born today, and everything should signed by October 1st! Here is a link to her blog, if you would like to see some pictures:
Mark and Niki's Family Blog
Please be praying with them for a quick next week and a half. It will be very hard for the birthparents over this week, and hard for Niki and Mark as they have to guard their hearts!
We love you Aunt Niki!!!
Continue reading...
She is in the process of adopting a beautiful little girl. Little girl was born today, and everything should signed by October 1st! Here is a link to her blog, if you would like to see some pictures:
Mark and Niki's Family Blog
Please be praying with them for a quick next week and a half. It will be very hard for the birthparents over this week, and hard for Niki and Mark as they have to guard their hearts!
We love you Aunt Niki!!!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
A Dangerous Woman....
I came across an article on a book that I am interested in reading... and thought I would share it :) .
Here is an excerpt from the book:
by the power of Jesus. And in that name, and by that power, may we change the world. Dear God, please
make us dangerous women.' Nice Girls Don't Change the World by Lynne Hybels
Inspiring Huh?
Continue reading...
Here is an excerpt from the book:
A dangerous woman delves deeply into the truth of who she is, grounds herself daily in the healing and empowering love of God and radically engages with the needs of the world. Dangerous women cross lines of age, race and culture raising money, thinking creatively, taking risks, reinventing their lives, following their God-given dreams.
Dangerous women; world changing women. Thats what I want to be (We can be) women who acknowledge our power to change and grow and be radically alive for God... healers of wounds and righters of wrongs. Weeping with those who weep and speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves. Cherishing children, embracing the elderly and empowering the poor; praying deeply and teaching wisely. Strong and gentle leaders.
by the power of Jesus. And in that name, and by that power, may we change the world. Dear God, please
make us dangerous women.' Nice Girls Don't Change the World by Lynne Hybels
Inspiring Huh?
Monday, September 14, 2009
Way to Go Abbie!!!
Abbie was chosen to be an American Girl model for a Fashion Show/Tea Party. The event is a fundraiser for the Junior League of Indianapolis.
Abbie has decided to make a quilt for her fundraiser. She is "selling" quilt blocks for her friends and family to sponsor. Her quilt will be donated to the local Children's Wing of the Hospital, for a little girl.
She is so excited about writing her adventures...and picked out quite the BOLD background for the blog. lol.
Here is a link to her website if you interested at all:
www.abbie-anamericangirl.blogspot.com
She will win an American Girl doll for the most amount donated, or the most creative fundraiser! I think this is pretty creative!
Abbie has decided to make a quilt for her fundraiser. She is "selling" quilt blocks for her friends and family to sponsor. Her quilt will be donated to the local Children's Wing of the Hospital, for a little girl.
She is so excited about writing her adventures...and picked out quite the BOLD background for the blog. lol.
Here is a link to her website if you interested at all:
www.abbie-anamericangirl.blogspot.com
She will win an American Girl doll for the most amount donated, or the most creative fundraiser! I think this is pretty creative!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Wowsers...MIA lately!
We have been so so busy lately. I owe updates. I am sorry. ;) Lisa, pretty please forgive me. I promise that there will be a lengthy update with pictures...within the next few days.
I have thought a lot about the fact that almost 2 months of our lives have now been left off of the blog. How sad. Must fix that!
Continue reading...
I have thought a lot about the fact that almost 2 months of our lives have now been left off of the blog. How sad. Must fix that!
Friday, August 28, 2009
To A Totally Sweet Aunt Niki---
Your kindness sent smiles spreading miles wide! Imagine the looks on a child's face when they open a package from IDAHO...and it has Happy Meal Toys in it!
I told them both that you and Mark ate the kids meals to get them. Abbie said, "I bet that looked silly." LOL....
Thanks for being such a sweet Auntie.... Maybe you will go from "The Snowman Lady" to "The Happy Meal Lady". Which do you like better?
Continue reading...
I told them both that you and Mark ate the kids meals to get them. Abbie said, "I bet that looked silly." LOL....
Thanks for being such a sweet Auntie.... Maybe you will go from "The Snowman Lady" to "The Happy Meal Lady". Which do you like better?
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Totally Cool Happy Meal!
Mc D's is pairing up with American Girl!!!! Abbie is waiting for the 14th. Her goal is to collect all of the sets. We will see, as Happy Meals can get pricey...when you go that often...and you have to buy for both of them!
We may actually just buy the toy this time. Did you know that you can do that for 1.50?
Anyhow, here is the link for anyone who would like to know what the actual items will be. And if anyone gets extras...feel free to send them our way! :)
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Our Business!
Our new coupon business is up and running now!
We are so excited to see where God is going to lead with this.
If you, or anyone you know, would like to host a class, let me know! I am willing to travel anywhere, and would love to meet up with you. :)
Here is the link to The Savvy Steward
Continue reading...
We are so excited to see where God is going to lead with this.
If you, or anyone you know, would like to host a class, let me know! I am willing to travel anywhere, and would love to meet up with you. :)
Here is the link to The Savvy Steward
Sunday, August 2, 2009
The Quotable Lewis...
I have fallen in love with C.S. Lewis quotes. For some reason, they speak to me. They reveal thoughts that have been hidden in my heart. I thought I would share a few of my favorites:
---A man can no more diminish God's glory by refusing to worship Him than a lunatic can put out the sun by scribbling the word, 'darkness' on the walls of his cell.
---Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point.
---I gave in, and admitted that God was God.
---It is in the process of being worshipped that God communicates His presence to men.
---Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done.
---Tribulations cannot cease until God either sees us remade or sees that our remaking is now hopeless.
And my favorite:
---God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but SHOUTS in our pains: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.
Continue reading...
---A man can no more diminish God's glory by refusing to worship Him than a lunatic can put out the sun by scribbling the word, 'darkness' on the walls of his cell.
---Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point.
---I gave in, and admitted that God was God.
---It is in the process of being worshipped that God communicates His presence to men.
---Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done.
---Tribulations cannot cease until God either sees us remade or sees that our remaking is now hopeless.
And my favorite:
---God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but SHOUTS in our pains: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
The Faith of a Child...
"Dear God, Thank for this day. Thank you for my family. Thank you for my new puppy. Please help Daddy get a new job. And please let us move Virgingiga. Thank you. Amen." ---Isaac
The only reason that Isaac wants to move to Virgingiga, is because we informed him that it is close to the ocean...and they have snow. Oh, and it is close to Rex. Crazy boy. But you have to love how they pray so specifically for what they want.
Continue reading...
The only reason that Isaac wants to move to Virgingiga, is because we informed him that it is close to the ocean...and they have snow. Oh, and it is close to Rex. Crazy boy. But you have to love how they pray so specifically for what they want.
Monday, July 13, 2009
I NEED A NAME!!!!
I really really realllllyyyy need a name for my Coupon Class Business. If you have anything creative, please leave me a comment. I have been calling it "The Coupon Class" , which I actually like, but can't use b/c it is already being used.
So...what are your ideas?
Continue reading...
So...what are your ideas?
My sinful kids.
A couple of weeks ago, I had a conversation with my littles. Abs and Isaac were talking amongst themselves in the backseat when one of them brought up SIN. dumdumdumduuuummmmm.
I love these kind of talks. The ones where they ask a million and a half questions that are as far outfield as they can possibly be. For some reason, this conversation started with the question of, "Mom, have you ever lied?" WHAT? I then answered, "Well, yes I have. It is not a good thing to do, but Mommy has lied before." Abbie was shocked! Then, it seems we entered into a confession of sin. Isaac felt the need to confess that he had hidden a Poptart that morning in a basket...and then lied about it. He asked if I was going to make him eat it when we got home. lol. Abbie admitted to lying about picking up her room the night before, but really she stuffed all the "yucky" stuff under the bed. I told them that needed to ask the right people for forgiveness, and then make it right. (This meant that Isaac did not get a snack, and had to retrieve the poptart and put it in the trash. Abbie had to clean out from under the bed.)
Somehow, at the end of the conversation, we talked about how God forgives you from your sin. I also explained that while God will forgive you of your sin, that doesn't mean that you will not be affected by it. They asked about the POP TART! lol I told them, that when I was younger, a pastor told me that he imagined facing God one day...and a movie screen. And that on the movie screen would be pictures of his sin and how it affected Christ. And then he would imagine that Christ would take that screen and destroy it, allowing him in. But, not before his sins were found out. lol. I told the kids that I am not sure that this will ever happen...or like that...but it could help them remember that their sins WILL be found out someday!
Abbie got very quiet. Then said, "Mom, I am going to be very embarressed! I sinned once while I was naked! GROSS!" Then...a little while later, Isaac asked if Adam and Eve would be in Heaven. I told him that I could not say yes or no.
After a little more silence from the ever thinking children, Abs says, "Mom, who do you think married Adam and Eve at their wedding? I think it was an owl...they are really smart and could probably talk to Adam and Eve." I told her that again, I did not know, but I would imagine that God married them. She thought that was a good answer. And stopped talking. For a long time. lol.
I love these kind of conversations. I know I need to write them down, so when there are days like today...days when I wanna send them outside for 5 hours with some food and water... I can see God working in them. And maybe have a little grace. Maybe.
Continue reading...
I love these kind of talks. The ones where they ask a million and a half questions that are as far outfield as they can possibly be. For some reason, this conversation started with the question of, "Mom, have you ever lied?" WHAT? I then answered, "Well, yes I have. It is not a good thing to do, but Mommy has lied before." Abbie was shocked! Then, it seems we entered into a confession of sin. Isaac felt the need to confess that he had hidden a Poptart that morning in a basket...and then lied about it. He asked if I was going to make him eat it when we got home. lol. Abbie admitted to lying about picking up her room the night before, but really she stuffed all the "yucky" stuff under the bed. I told them that needed to ask the right people for forgiveness, and then make it right. (This meant that Isaac did not get a snack, and had to retrieve the poptart and put it in the trash. Abbie had to clean out from under the bed.)
Somehow, at the end of the conversation, we talked about how God forgives you from your sin. I also explained that while God will forgive you of your sin, that doesn't mean that you will not be affected by it. They asked about the POP TART! lol I told them, that when I was younger, a pastor told me that he imagined facing God one day...and a movie screen. And that on the movie screen would be pictures of his sin and how it affected Christ. And then he would imagine that Christ would take that screen and destroy it, allowing him in. But, not before his sins were found out. lol. I told the kids that I am not sure that this will ever happen...or like that...but it could help them remember that their sins WILL be found out someday!
Abbie got very quiet. Then said, "Mom, I am going to be very embarressed! I sinned once while I was naked! GROSS!" Then...a little while later, Isaac asked if Adam and Eve would be in Heaven. I told him that I could not say yes or no.
After a little more silence from the ever thinking children, Abs says, "Mom, who do you think married Adam and Eve at their wedding? I think it was an owl...they are really smart and could probably talk to Adam and Eve." I told her that again, I did not know, but I would imagine that God married them. She thought that was a good answer. And stopped talking. For a long time. lol.
I love these kind of conversations. I know I need to write them down, so when there are days like today...days when I wanna send them outside for 5 hours with some food and water... I can see God working in them. And maybe have a little grace. Maybe.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Without a Computer!
We have been without a computer for going on 2 weeks now. Just wanted to let you know, in case you needed me for something. What a bummer! Praying for the Computer Fairy to come by soon. lol.
Continue reading...
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Friday, June 5, 2009
Update to the amusing life of Annie Shaw...
I realized the other night that I had not given much of a REAL update on the blog. I try to do this occasionally, as I use my blog somewhat as a scrapbook. So, here you go...in case you care. Which, you may totally not care. If that is the case, you have my smiling permission to stop reading now, and go look at something really cool. :)
Brian:
Bri has been staying busy working on finding that next ministry. He has an interview with a church in Indiana in 2 weeks. (This will be his 4th and possibly final interview at this church). It is for the position of a Family Pastor, which suits Brian really well. He also has a few others that are out of state, but are seriously looking at him as well.
There are times that this man goes stir crazy in the house! So, he has been working at Faith some, working on the house some, and when he just can't stand it anymore...he takes one of our free movie passes, and goes to a movie.
Abbie:
Abs has been busy changing into a girl. Believe it or not, this little tom-boy is becoming quite girlie. She loves Pink now...which kinda drives me crazy at times. lol. She adores reading, and is starting the new "Mandy Shaw" series. Her greatest acomplishment is that she saved enough money to finish buying her "Samantha"-American Girl series. It took her almost a year to do it. She reads about 3 chapter books a week, and anything else she can get her hands on. Abs is getting really excited about moving, as it means that she will more than likely have her own room. A room that she can paint.....guess what color.... PINK. lol
Isaac:
Isaac...oh my boy. He is still so full of surprises. Today, he described how he was going to take his wife to Olive Garden for a date, and give her kisses, if she likes them. He described how he would love her, and that he would be "Way Momantic". Isaac is "in love" with a sweet girl named, Claire. Abbie calls her Claire Bear...but Isaac takes great offense to that. Everytime that he sees something sweet about marriage, he will say, "When I grow up and marry Claire, I am going to do that for her." He is going to make a great hubby someday!!! Other than being in love, Isaac is 100% BOY. As I type, he is hunting up his Boys Book of Survival, so that he can figure out how to kill a raccoon. lol. Isaac has also been reading for several months now. Nothing grand, but several 3 letter words. He will fly through K4 with no problems. Which is an answer to my prayers, as I feared it would be hard to teach him. Isaac does not care if we move or not...b/c that would mean leaving Claire. BUT, he still faithfully prays, 3-4 times a day, for Daddy to get a new job. Sweet boy.
ME:
I have been so busy that I have little time for much. I started teaching a coupon class last week at Faith. We currently have about 300 registered. We are working on getting the curriculum and such put together better. And, we are currently praying about starting a business with coupon presentations and such. I have also been getting things ready in the house, for the big move...whenever that happens. And, last week, we took my sister's kids (Molly, Tiege, and Katie)...which was a hoot. VBS is coming up, so Brian and I are working on that, which is great fun.
While I am so not wanting to leave Faith, I am extremely ready to move on to the next place. I am excited to see where it will be, and am having a hard time sleeping some nights thinking about it! I will lay there thinking, "Where will I be 6 months from now? I could be sleeping in Florida...or Iowa...or who knows where." It is a very strange thought...but exciting none-the-less. Praying that God sends us somewhere that is accessible to home (vain request huh) and a place that I will have good friends. Hmmmm...and, if it is not TOOOO much to ask, a place that has good couponing stores! lol.
So, that is us. We are happy, busy, and loving life. Enjoying where we are at, while we are here. BUT, ready to get the move on too!
Continue reading...
Brian:
Bri has been staying busy working on finding that next ministry. He has an interview with a church in Indiana in 2 weeks. (This will be his 4th and possibly final interview at this church). It is for the position of a Family Pastor, which suits Brian really well. He also has a few others that are out of state, but are seriously looking at him as well.
There are times that this man goes stir crazy in the house! So, he has been working at Faith some, working on the house some, and when he just can't stand it anymore...he takes one of our free movie passes, and goes to a movie.
Abbie:
Abs has been busy changing into a girl. Believe it or not, this little tom-boy is becoming quite girlie. She loves Pink now...which kinda drives me crazy at times. lol. She adores reading, and is starting the new "Mandy Shaw" series. Her greatest acomplishment is that she saved enough money to finish buying her "Samantha"-American Girl series. It took her almost a year to do it. She reads about 3 chapter books a week, and anything else she can get her hands on. Abs is getting really excited about moving, as it means that she will more than likely have her own room. A room that she can paint.....guess what color.... PINK. lol
Isaac:
Isaac...oh my boy. He is still so full of surprises. Today, he described how he was going to take his wife to Olive Garden for a date, and give her kisses, if she likes them. He described how he would love her, and that he would be "Way Momantic". Isaac is "in love" with a sweet girl named, Claire. Abbie calls her Claire Bear...but Isaac takes great offense to that. Everytime that he sees something sweet about marriage, he will say, "When I grow up and marry Claire, I am going to do that for her." He is going to make a great hubby someday!!! Other than being in love, Isaac is 100% BOY. As I type, he is hunting up his Boys Book of Survival, so that he can figure out how to kill a raccoon. lol. Isaac has also been reading for several months now. Nothing grand, but several 3 letter words. He will fly through K4 with no problems. Which is an answer to my prayers, as I feared it would be hard to teach him. Isaac does not care if we move or not...b/c that would mean leaving Claire. BUT, he still faithfully prays, 3-4 times a day, for Daddy to get a new job. Sweet boy.ME:
I have been so busy that I have little time for much. I started teaching a coupon class last week at Faith. We currently have about 300 registered. We are working on getting the curriculum and such put together better. And, we are currently praying about starting a business with coupon presentations and such. I have also been getting things ready in the house, for the big move...whenever that happens. And, last week, we took my sister's kids (Molly, Tiege, and Katie)...which was a hoot. VBS is coming up, so Brian and I are working on that, which is great fun.
While I am so not wanting to leave Faith, I am extremely ready to move on to the next place. I am excited to see where it will be, and am having a hard time sleeping some nights thinking about it! I will lay there thinking, "Where will I be 6 months from now? I could be sleeping in Florida...or Iowa...or who knows where." It is a very strange thought...but exciting none-the-less. Praying that God sends us somewhere that is accessible to home (vain request huh) and a place that I will have good friends. Hmmmm...and, if it is not TOOOO much to ask, a place that has good couponing stores! lol.
So, that is us. We are happy, busy, and loving life. Enjoying where we are at, while we are here. BUT, ready to get the move on too!
Some Meijer Dealios for 6/7-6/13
Heads up that Printable in DB means that you can go to the Database at Hotcouponworld, and get a printable for that item. ;)
Kings Hawaiian Bread 4pk .25
SALE: 10/10
MQ: .75 off 1 printable in DB
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Country Crock .30 or 2.70 MM wyb 12
SALE: 10/10
MQ: .35/1 5/17 RP
Mealbox Q: 1.00/2
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: yes up to .50
Del Monte Naturals Cups 1.00/2
SALE: 10/10
MQ: 1.00/2 Printable in DB
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Aquafresh .25
SALE: 10/10
MQ: .75 off 1 printable in DB
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Aunt Millie's Bread .30
SALE: 10/10
MQ: .35/1 5/10 RP
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: up to .50
Hunts Ketchup 5.00/12
SALE: 10/10
MQ: 1.00/2 5/10 SS
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Nabisco Oreo Cakesters and Milk 4.00
SALE: 3/7 plus get free milk
MQ: 1/1 Cakester tearpad
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Continue reading...
Kings Hawaiian Bread 4pk .25
SALE: 10/10
MQ: .75 off 1 printable in DB
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Country Crock .30 or 2.70 MM wyb 12
SALE: 10/10
MQ: .35/1 5/17 RP
Mealbox Q: 1.00/2
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: yes up to .50
Del Monte Naturals Cups 1.00/2
SALE: 10/10
MQ: 1.00/2 Printable in DB
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Aquafresh .25
SALE: 10/10
MQ: .75 off 1 printable in DB
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Aunt Millie's Bread .30
SALE: 10/10
MQ: .35/1 5/10 RP
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: up to .50
Hunts Ketchup 5.00/12
SALE: 10/10
MQ: 1.00/2 5/10 SS
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Nabisco Oreo Cakesters and Milk 4.00
SALE: 3/7 plus get free milk
MQ: 1/1 Cakester tearpad
Mealbox Q:
Catalina: (if any)
Doubles: N/A
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Attention All K-Mart Shoppers...
(image from wordpress.com)
Lol---Ok, so I actually do say that phrase in real life. Probably one time a week. hehehe...
There will be double dollar days at K-Mart starting on Sunday, June 7th! YIPPPPEEE...
The dealio: You can only do 10 coupons a day. Double up to 2.00. So, take those hubbies with you.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Lightning Bugs and Summer Nights...
Do you remember when life was filled with sweet summer nights. Playing barefoot in the grass. Running wildly, while you tried to catch that impossible firefly -aka lightning bug- that kept flying too high for you to catch?
Tonight...we saw the essence of summer. The first lightning bugs. Every year, when these amazing little creatures make their way to our playland, I remember back. Back to the days when bills were not a worry. Back to the days when I did not have to clean an entire house. Back to the days when my little legs could carry me as fast as my little heart wanted them to.
I remember one night in particular. We had the Fentons over for some reason, and my mom told us girls that she would give us money for each firefly we caught. We were getting ready to go on vacation to Washington DC in a few weeks, so we really wanted to catch those little stinkers. We ran in and got jars, and went to our "work". The feelings of the grass in my feet, the smell of the sweet summer night, and the sound of laughter as we yelled out when we "got one". Memories I will always treasure. (Should I mention that I later lost every penny I had earned within the first 2 hours of our trip...at a rest stop?)
I often wonder if my kids will remember these tender moments of their childhood. Simple pleasures. I want to make sure that they are etched within their very beings. That they know that small gifts, are most often the greatest. Thank you Lord for making lightning bugs. :)
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Last Chance Matilda...
(Ok...the Matilda was for Sunny-O if she is reading this...Abbie is now saying that too.)
You have less than 5 days to register for the upcoming coupon classes at Faith Community Center! Classes start on June 1st 6:30-8:00 pm, and will last for 4 weeks.
I am AMAZED that there are over 225 people registered for this! What an awesome outreach.
Wowsers.
If you would like to register, shoot out an email to:
thecouponclass@hotmail.com
If you would like to host a coupon class in your area, I would love to come and visit!!!
I am AMAZED that there are over 225 people registered for this! What an awesome outreach.
Wowsers.
If you would like to register, shoot out an email to:
thecouponclass@hotmail.com
If you would like to host a coupon class in your area, I would love to come and visit!!!
Kraft Coupons Round 2
Did you miss out on the first round of the Kraft coupons? Or, do you just want to print out one more set---LEGALLY???? Here is a new link to get those great Kraft coupons that everyone is buzzing about. lol Ok, so that totally sounded like I work for Kraft, huh?
Here is the linky doo...
Smart Source Kraft Coupons
Saturday, May 23, 2009
I want to be like Kelly when I grow up...
My sweet friend Kelly recently wrote a blog about how she jokingly/lovingly wants to be like me, because of coupons. Honestly, it made my whole week. I think I have discovered that words of affirmation are my love language. lol
Anyhow...tonight, Kelly is making a sacrifice that I am not sure I could make. Her hubby is overseas, protecting our country. The duty that Kelly, and all of the other women/men around our USA, complete...is well...mind blowing to me. I am quite honored to have a friend who can raise three kids, tile bathrooms, keep her wits about her (most of the time), and even make it to the gym...all while her hubby is serving us.
Thank you Kelly, and all of the military families out there. Thank you Dan. And all of the military men/women. Your act of service is not un-noticed. You are remembered in this home. :)
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Tonight, I will Hold them Tighter...
Love them Deeper. Pray for them Fervently. And ...TEACH THEM OF CHRIST!
Today, I am heavy hearted. Our church family has experienced a deep tragedy, one that no one should ever have to face. On Friday night, 3 out of the 4 members of the Wagoner family, lost their lives in a house fire. The Wagoners were special to our family. Brian and Leah were one of the first families that offered their warmth to us at Faith. Brian and Leah were also one of Isaac's Sunday School teachers. Their son, Harrison, was in Abbie's class. Their daughter, Sophia, was one of Isaac's sweeties. It is nearly impossible to think of them, all three of them, gone. It is heart sickening to think of the pain that is in Brian's heart right now. How he must ache with grief.
Even though these things hurt, lessons are to be learned.
To Husbands: Realize that the words you speak to your wife, might be the last ones... let them be ones of gentleness and love, you won't regret them.
To Wives: Realize that the glancing look you throw at your husband, might be the last memory he has of you alive. Let it be one filled with tenderness and devotion.
To Parents: Realize that your children are not yours. They are but a loan, and their moments might be fleeting. Don't waste your time, or theirs, by not setting up GODS priorities in your family. Seriously, do you want your children to enter Heaven with empty hands? Or worse...not enter Heaven at all? If your children died today, would you regret THEIR relationship with God?
To Children: Realize that just because you are young, does not always mean that you will have forever. Live everyday with an excitement to serve God and live in obedience.
To Christains and Non Christians alike: Three simple words: Are you ready? If not, why not get ready??? I mean seriously, it just takes one split moment to repent and seek God's help to turn your life around. One teeny second. Do it. Don't wait. Me too.
I am typing these out, so that I can remember. Setting my up my stone of remembrance. Required. We must learn the lessons in these trials.
Please keep Brian in your prayers. I can not even imagine. Our minds are limited to to our own little world. He needs something that none of us can offer to him. He needs the Lord's loving hands to cover him. He needs the strength of Job, to stand in this path, hold his head up, and beg for God's presence. I imagine that he can not even pray this for himself, but we can. Join me?
Continue reading...
Today, I am heavy hearted. Our church family has experienced a deep tragedy, one that no one should ever have to face. On Friday night, 3 out of the 4 members of the Wagoner family, lost their lives in a house fire. The Wagoners were special to our family. Brian and Leah were one of the first families that offered their warmth to us at Faith. Brian and Leah were also one of Isaac's Sunday School teachers. Their son, Harrison, was in Abbie's class. Their daughter, Sophia, was one of Isaac's sweeties. It is nearly impossible to think of them, all three of them, gone. It is heart sickening to think of the pain that is in Brian's heart right now. How he must ache with grief.
Even though these things hurt, lessons are to be learned.
To Husbands: Realize that the words you speak to your wife, might be the last ones... let them be ones of gentleness and love, you won't regret them.
To Wives: Realize that the glancing look you throw at your husband, might be the last memory he has of you alive. Let it be one filled with tenderness and devotion.
To Parents: Realize that your children are not yours. They are but a loan, and their moments might be fleeting. Don't waste your time, or theirs, by not setting up GODS priorities in your family. Seriously, do you want your children to enter Heaven with empty hands? Or worse...not enter Heaven at all? If your children died today, would you regret THEIR relationship with God?
To Children: Realize that just because you are young, does not always mean that you will have forever. Live everyday with an excitement to serve God and live in obedience.
To Christains and Non Christians alike: Three simple words: Are you ready? If not, why not get ready??? I mean seriously, it just takes one split moment to repent and seek God's help to turn your life around. One teeny second. Do it. Don't wait. Me too.
I am typing these out, so that I can remember. Setting my up my stone of remembrance. Required. We must learn the lessons in these trials.
Please keep Brian in your prayers. I can not even imagine. Our minds are limited to to our own little world. He needs something that none of us can offer to him. He needs the Lord's loving hands to cover him. He needs the strength of Job, to stand in this path, hold his head up, and beg for God's presence. I imagine that he can not even pray this for himself, but we can. Join me?
Thursday, May 14, 2009
WOW--WEDNESDAY-- YUMMIES!!!!
So, Because Arby's is filled with smart people...They are putting on a Summer of Savings! Every Wednesday, there will be a new deal to be had. Here is the schedule. (Thanks to HCW!)
May 13th - Free Roastburger with any soft drink purchase
May 20th - Free Chocolate Malt Swirl shake with any sandwich purchase
May 27th - Free Regular Roast Beef sandwich with any soft drink purchase
June 3rd - Free FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
June 10th - Free Roast Chicken club with any soft drink purchase
June 17th - Free Regular Sidekicker with any sandwich purchase
June 24th -Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
July 1st - Free Regular Beef 'n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase
July 8th - Free Orange Cream Swirl shake with any sandwich purchase
July 15th - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
July 22nd - Free Roastburger with any soft drink purchase
July 29th - Free FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
August 5th - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
August 12th - Free Roast Chicken Club with any soft drink purchase
August 19th - Free FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
August 26th - Free Regular Beef 'n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase
Monday, May 11, 2009
Random Monday Matchups....
Since I have a new class of couponers coming in, I thought I would do a Monday Matchup for you!
If you have any questions concerning the wording or anything else, please leave a comment here, and I will answer it! Happy Couponing!
Check out THIS WEBSITE for some GREAT Kraft coupons that will go with these sales as well!
Meijer:
Kraft Mayo or Miracle Whip--- FREE
Sale: 2/4
MeijerMealbox: 1.00/1
MQ: 1.00/1 4/26/09 SS
Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs---- .25 each wyb 2
Sale: 1.25
MeijerMealbox: 1.00/2
MQ: 1.00/2 5/10/2009
Ritz Crackers---- .50 WOW!
Sale: 2/5
MeijerMealbox: 1.00/1
MQ: 1.00/1 (Tearpads found under Ritz in Meijer!!!!)
Aunt Millies Bread---- .45
Sale: 1.19
MQ: .35/1 4/26/09 RP
Duncan Hines Premium Brownies--- .96
Sale: 1.66
MQ: .35/1 2/1/09 SS
Nestle Tollhouse Cookie Dough--- .45/1 wyb 2
Sale: 2/4.00
MeijerMealbox: 1.10/2
MQ: 1.00/1 3/29/09 RP or Use THIS PRINTABLE for 1.00 off
Banana Boat Sunscreen/Hawaiian Tropics---- as low as 1.97
Sale: 2.00 off any
MQ: 1.00/1 5/3/2009 SS
Max Factor Make up----Free
Sale: 2.00 off any
MQ: 2.00/1 5/10/2009
Softsoap---- .29
Sale: .99
MQ: .35/1 4/26/09 insert
Digorno Pizza or Tombstone Pizza--- 1.33
Sale: 3.33
MeijerMealbox: 1.00/1
MQ: 1.00/1 Get this coupon from the above Kraft coupon link!
Brian needs the computer, but I will come back and do more!!! :)
Continue reading...
If you have any questions concerning the wording or anything else, please leave a comment here, and I will answer it! Happy Couponing!
Check out THIS WEBSITE for some GREAT Kraft coupons that will go with these sales as well!
Meijer:
Kraft Mayo or Miracle Whip--- FREE
Sale: 2/4
MeijerMealbox: 1.00/1
MQ: 1.00/1 4/26/09 SS
Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs---- .25 each wyb 2
Sale: 1.25
MeijerMealbox: 1.00/2
MQ: 1.00/2 5/10/2009
Ritz Crackers---- .50 WOW!
Sale: 2/5
MeijerMealbox: 1.00/1
MQ: 1.00/1 (Tearpads found under Ritz in Meijer!!!!)
Aunt Millies Bread---- .45
Sale: 1.19
MQ: .35/1 4/26/09 RP
Duncan Hines Premium Brownies--- .96
Sale: 1.66
MQ: .35/1 2/1/09 SS
Nestle Tollhouse Cookie Dough--- .45/1 wyb 2
Sale: 2/4.00
MeijerMealbox: 1.10/2
MQ: 1.00/1 3/29/09 RP or Use THIS PRINTABLE for 1.00 off
Banana Boat Sunscreen/Hawaiian Tropics---- as low as 1.97
Sale: 2.00 off any
MQ: 1.00/1 5/3/2009 SS
Max Factor Make up----Free
Sale: 2.00 off any
MQ: 2.00/1 5/10/2009
Softsoap---- .29
Sale: .99
MQ: .35/1 4/26/09 insert
Digorno Pizza or Tombstone Pizza--- 1.33
Sale: 3.33
MeijerMealbox: 1.00/1
MQ: 1.00/1 Get this coupon from the above Kraft coupon link!
Brian needs the computer, but I will come back and do more!!! :)
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
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