weekend refection~

Family~

• Izzy went to bear & school this week, she was a healthy little girl again this week. I cannot believe it is almost time for her birthday! July 26 she will turn 5 years old. I think because I am still carrying her around and doing all her care, she still is like my baby. I am going to have to change my vocabulary... Birthdays would probably make me very sad if I didn't rely on and believe in God's promises!
• Amanda did a few jobs for Matt around the yard for $$$ this week, she then went to eat at Olive Garden and to get her eyebrows waxed... goodbye money :o)... at least the girl has priorities right? Oh, and the outing was supposed to be a "turn in applications for a J-O-B" and when I asked how many applications she turned in ... the magic number was "zero" because no one was hiring ya'll...
  
• Me & Emelia had a fun outing Wednesday afternoon while Iz was in school. We ran errands, got her camp pictures, etc. She said, "aren't you glad I came with you, this was a great mother daughter bonding experience." I was glad that she felt that way! (I also had to wonder if it had anything to do with the snacks, pictures and toy I bought for her?... it doesn't matter she deserves it!!!)
• Bailey has his little buddy here for the weekend from out of town. They are two peas in a pod and having a blast. I tried fixing some waffles and bacon for them to wake them up (at 11 a.m.) and they didn't stir. I guess they played that new wii game all night. Their conversations crack me up. I'm so glad Dylan's dad is willing to let him come visit since they moved away last year.
  
• I operated on Matt's finger last night. He was doing yard work while off work yesterday and we have trumpet vines that are just crazy so he was whacking them and one went into his thumb and broke off so you couldn't pull it out. It just got worse and worse. Finally me, my exacto knife, and my tweezerman sharp point tweezers had to do surgery. Let me tell you it wasn't pretty. It's out though! If I could find the camera I would take a picture of how big it was (maybe it's better that I can't locate the camera this morning).
• It's still raining!!! Last night I drove down our road and it is a river going across it. The second time I felt my car move a little. I'm still not complaining, but there is major flooding happening around here now.
  

Food~

• I got a day off this week because I made the tacos and had lots of taco meat left over so the next night I took tortillas and refried (fat free) beans and rolled them up with a little cheddar and then put sauce over it and cheese and baked it... and while I was at the mall buying a birthday present, I poked my head in El Chico and ordered a set up (cheese sauce, hot sauce, chips, tortillas for only 2.99) and we had mexican food again. It all turned out very good...
• So the next night (last night) I made the pork chops, but because the first time I used the grill I forgot to turn off the gas, I now have to go have the propane tank refilled so we had pork chop potatoes in the crockpot and I couldn't find the recipe so I improvised and they were yummy!!!
• I am still watching it in the food area. Still enjoying the morning coffee...
• I posted some fourth of July recipes for favorite ingredient Friday here.
  

Bloggville~

• Kat & Ohamanda gave me the rocker girl blogger award !!! So sweet, thank you thank you thankyou!!!
• Me & Marcia were finally able to visit on her chat room! It was so much fun talking to her, I just wish I could hear her accent. Judi's was so much fun to 'hear' on the phone.
• I won Barb's recipe party favor (well, I was one of 30... but still!)
• I took this quiz on Nan's page and found out I am only 60% addicted to blogging, don't know if that is good or bad???
• Jenna is a killer! (well, it was a pregnant snake but still :o)...
• I mailed out those devo books to all of you who sent me your addresses. Hope they come today... I mailed them Wednesday afternoon (when me & emelia were out playing).
• Lolly posted about pool safety! Thanks Lolly!!!
• I got good mail!!! Thanks PJ, when I find the camera I will take a pic of the fun good mail you sent and how did you know I love strawberry licorice?
• Happy Anniversary to Sheryl & Jenna!!! (No, not the two of them ... with their hubbies for goodness sakes)
  

Blessings~

• sunshine
• daddies... mine on earth (love him) and mine in heaven (love HIM!)
• health
• God's promises, they keep me moving, one step after another! Praise Him.
• my friends... the ones I know IRL, and the ones I will know IRL someday!
  
• YOU!!!

Visit my friend Judi to link up with others sharing their reflections of the week...

diet devo ~ day twenty one!

"There was a time when some of you were just like that, but now your sins have been washed away, and you have been set apart for God. You have been made right with God because of what the Lord Jesus Christ and the Spirit of our God have done for you."
I Cor. 6:11 NLT


In many respects, dieting is like a washing away of fat. What greater joy is there than to step up on the scales and see the pointer a few marks to the left of where it was a couple of days before. When we lose, we feel cleansed, and the cleansing is not just physical. Emotionally we begin to feel better about ourselves. Our guilt, our poor self-image, our pain all begin to wash away too. This is the best washing of all. We are renewed both inside and out, and we become fitting and holy temples; righteous dwelling places for the Lord.

Today's thought: Each pound lost cleanses me physically, spiritually, and mentally.

a tag...

Marcia tagged me for this fun meme.

Here is how to play:

If you had the opportunity to do a 1-year internship in a company or field completely unrelated to your current career or specialty, what would be your top 5 choices?

mine are:

• Editor of a fun magazine like Real Simple...
• One of Oprah Winfrey's dogs :o) (just kidding, but come on already?)
• world traveling evangelist.
  
• world traveling contemporary Christian singer (God would have to supply the voice though)
• OB/GYN, I loved delivering each of my children. It's such a monumental minute in your life it would be so rewarding to bring babies into the world every day.
  

So what are your 5 alternate careers?

Judi, Jenna, Julie, Jill, Jodi, Jenileigh, Jenny & Janeen... It's a "J" thing :o) ... you are tagged! Anyone else wanna do it? You're tagged too! Just be sure to tell me so I can read about your dreams.

diet devo ~ day twenty!

"For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9

Talk to Jesus. Seriously, He is waiting to listen to you and help you in your struggle to lose weight. Sometimes we wrestle with the urge to cheat on our diets until we are emotional wrecks. This happens most often when we are alone, with no one to talk to. Don't forget, Christ is always with you, and He is as close as prayer. Tell Him how difficult it is. Let Him know your struggle, and He will indeed comfort you. There is never a time in our lives when Jesus is not interested in everything that is happening to us. Call upon Him.

Today's thought: Jesus is as close as a prayer.

rain, coffee pt II ~sct ~ diet devo day nineteen

I'm sitting here (with my sidekick Izzy by me) looking out the window, it is still raining. Not sprinkling, raining. It did stop for a couple of hours yesterday, but when we came out of church I could tell it had downpoured while we were in... I'm not complaining. I know that we won't all float away, God promised that. So, I just thank Him for watering all the beautiful flowers so nicely and soaking the earth. I am imagining all the fires that are being prevented from this rain.
So, Gail and Stacy both mentioned liquid creamers for the coffee. Gail even sent links to websites. I went yesterday with the goal of finding these creamers. I bought international flavors hershey chocolate with caramel I think. Miss Paula mentioned liking the Mocha foldgers. I have so much to try, very exciting. Then Jenna discouraged me from using splenda, she and I see eye to eye on those artificial sweeteners. So, this morning I made my first cup with the tablespoon of the new creamer, and 3 tsp. of sugar. It was actually good. I think it's funny how many people either hate coffee or really love it. Amanda loves starbucks and several of you suggested different drinks there. She usually talks me into a drink there when we are at Target. I have tried several and in the past if they had a coffee flavor I pitched them (I'm a new woman now, so I'll try again), usually opting for hot cocoa. Isn't this just fascinating stuff? :o)
At church last night, the pastor was talking about leadership, not in the way I would expect. More about courage and character. He said courage is faith in action. He also mentioned that there have been studies done that show the people who acheive their goals write them down. I am going to start writing my goals down. He also talked about living a yuck life and made an acrostic to define his thoughts... y - yesterday, living in the past, being caught up in what was or could have been; u - unsupervised, not being held accountable to anyone; c - callused; and k - killjoy, no fun to be around, someone who just sucks the life out of you. I certainly don't want to live a yuck life!
Izzy had summer school yesterday, for some reason she was so cranky there. She starting being fussy while I was getting ready to take her and then I noticed when I picked her up she was still very vocal and a little stiff. I'm not sure if her tummy was upset from her lunch, or if she just didn't want to be there. I can't wait until she can tell me what's wrong instead of playing the guessing game... I'm just glad that she does show me when she is uncomfortable. She slept really well last night and so far this morning seems to be doing good. When I heard her and went in to get her this morning she smiled and was glad to see me! I showed her the view out the window and we talked about the rain. I usually spend some time first thing in the morning in prayer over her too. She is a sweetie. Prayers are welcome btw.

Sweet & Sour Meatballs
2 pounds ground turkey breast
2 teaspoons salt-free garlic and herb seasoning or poultry seasoning
1 egg white
Salt and ground black pepper
2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 cup chili sauce
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons dried thyme
In a large bowl, combine turkey, garlic and herb seasoning, egg white and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Mix well and shape mixture into about 32 meatballs. Place meatballs in bottom of slow cooker.

In a medium bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, broth, chili sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme. Pour mixture over meatballs.

Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Season, to taste, with salt and black pepper.

Visit Sandra to share your favorite slow cooker recipe and/or to view more!

It's funny to follow a recipe with a diet devo huh? I have had some good laughs at the comments on the diet devos pertaining to recipes and food. You have to eat for goodness sakes, the point is to just be smart about it right... Anyway, here is day 19. I sent out several of these books yesterday, so if I promised one to you expect it soon.

"Because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps ... Who his own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness."

It is good for us to remember, as we sit feeling sorry for ourselves because we may not indulge in tasty pleasures, that our sacrifice is not really so great when we compare it to the many sacrifices Christ made. What we are doing is indeed a sacrifice, but for self rather than for others. Christ sacrificed for us in order that we might enjoy life to the fullest. Let us learn from the sacrifices of Christ and remember that He has given us the power to overcome any temptation that might present itself.

Today's thought: Christ has conquered temptation and will be with me!

Hope you have a great Thursday!

diet devo ~ day eighteen

"Be it far from me; for them that honor me I will honor; and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed." I Samuel 2:30

A friend of mine played basketball in high school. He did everything he could to become the best player he could be. He worked with the coach every day. He respected the coach and did everything the coach told him, in order to please him. His hard work paid off. He starred on the team, and when he graduated, the coach told him he was the finest player he had ever had the privalege of coaching. Are we doing everything we can to please God by being the best people we can be? When we diet, we do God honor, and He will be faithful to honor us in return. If we ignore our bodies, the gift that God gave us, then we show contempt for God, and He will lose respect for us.

Today's thought: Today I will do everything I can to please God!

coffee & rain ~

It is raining and raining here. I'm not complaining... nope! I remember this time last year we had burn bans and fires. Today, however, there was flooding everywhere. I can't say that I saw this firsthand since I didn't actually leave the house today. Well, I did walk out to get the mail & something out of my car... does that count? Matt called at least every hour to tell me about the massive amount of water everywhere.

So, I've started drinking coffee! Matt just can't believe it. We've been married 18 years. I have made coffee every day (except some weekends when he beats me to it) and have never had one cup - EVER! Well, Julie mentioned that she was drinking it in place of a soda in the morning so I thought I would try it. Matt likes flavored coffee... like hazelnut or cinnamon. I buy these because even though I never actually drank any, at least it smelled yummy. So, I bought some of that powdered creamer stuff in a few flavors and had splenda packets. One big cup of coffee is one weight watcher point! Funny thing is that it seems to make me sleepy to drink it. I can't imagine that it is a reaction to the coffee, it has caffeine for goodness sakes, but I do feel very sleepy after a cup. I have also quickly found that like my coke with sonic ice, I prefer my coffee in a styrofoam cup too. Go figure! I also found a caramel drizzel coffee yesterday that is foldgers gourmet. It is really pretty good. Like I said, this is all new to me... but anything to wean the coke is a good thing. I have always hated coffee breath! I don't like it on me either. I guess that's what mints were made for. Matt thinks it is "cute" (his word) that I am a new coffee drinker. My mama will flip when she hears, she never touches the stuff :o)...

The monkeys kids are enjoying summer! Emelia has had a friend over since yesterday and just walked in (it's 9:00 p.m.) to ask for a bowl to put worms in! I hate worms fyi and do not want any worms in any of my bowls thank you very much. She saw my reaction and remembered the disposable dora the explorer bowls in the kitchen and out she went! Amanda stayed at a friend's house last night and I think she is avoiding finishing her unpacking!

I chatted online with Marcia yesterday, she asked how I am able to show attention to all the kids when Izzy takes a lot of my attention. I thought this was probably a good question to answer here... They are all so different. Emelia is thrilled to run errands with me, or do nails. I had my pedicure a while back with the french tips and she wanted one too. So, she and I went and bought the french manicure set and did her nails and toenails Saturday night. They actually turned out pretty good! Bailey is pretty much my shadow. He is a sweet 13 year old and will just hang out with me. I spend a lot of time with him. Amanda is almost 17 (yikes) and she is more like another grown up or friend. But I am careful to make sure she knows that I am the mom! She does her own thing a lot, but will just spend time with me.

One more thing... tonight was grilled burgers on my MPM... and Friday is those pioneer woman chicken sandwiches... anyway, I cooked half of that peppered bacon I bought for Friday and used half of the colby cheese too for the burgers. I seasoned them with the Emeril SW seasonings that Amberly mentioned using on her chicken and those were some really delicious burgers! Don't worry, I only had one and it was small... and a corn on the cob! Yummy!
The corn farm locally doesn't have the corn ready yet, but mom and dad stopped out of town this weekend at another farm and brought me a bushel of corn, so I got it all cleaned up and put in freezer bags. I just love Summer with all the fresh veggies!

diet devo day 17

"The Lord knoweth the days of the upright; and their inheritance shall be forever." Psalm 37:18

God honestly does know what we suffer through when we try to lose weight. He sympathizes with us in all our suffering, but He can also see the prize that awaits us. He knows the inheritance that is to come. Even when we have difficulty keeping our eyes focused on the goal, we can turn to God, who will strengthen us by His own strength. He always sees us as what we can potentially be: slim, trim, and healthy! It is important for us to try to see ourselves the same way God sees us. Remember, once weight is lost, the struggle is not completely over, but we need not ever return to obesity. The fruits of our labors, our inheritance, can last forever.

Today's thought: God wants to see us achieve our goal!

time travel tuesday ~ salvation edition

This week I decided we should revisit our time of salvation, or a special time in your spiritual life. Was there a moment when you became a Christian, or did it take a while? Can you remember that special time in your life?

I can't remember a time in my life when we didn't go to church. Three times a week (at least) ... or every time those church doors opened we were there. We went to any meetings, camp, vbs, whatever the church did... we participated. I was raised in a very conservative church and was baptized at a very young age, looking back it was really too young. Several years later, while at church camp as a teenager, I decided to take that plunge again... getting re-baptized. It was a special night, I remember the water looking like it had a fog above it. I felt something inside that it seemed I only felt at camp. After Izzy's accident I have had blinders removed from my eyes and realize that there is so much more that God has given me. The gifts are endless. I am not judged on my works, rather Christ died to forgive my sins, heal my diseases and cause me to prosper which makes me want to act in a way that please Him. I thought about being re baptized recently when they held a big public baptism at a church we have been going to regularly for a couple of years. I almost did it... I guess I have decided that I have obeyed God's command to be baptized by water. There are now other avenues for me to explore and I am so glad Christ lives in me. I used to say to the kids, "where is Jesus?" and they would point to heaven. Now I say, "Jesus is in you." He lives, praise God.

If you are posting your story, please sign up so I can come and read yours too!
I am open to other suggestions for places to visit on Tuesdays!

diet devo ~ day sixteen

"I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness." John 12:46

When we feel bad about ourselves, we tend to dwell under a dark cloud of depression. Sometimes we can't think of anything else, but how much weight we've gained and how much we would like to lose. The good news is that darkness is always replaced by light. We can get out from under the burden of our weight. We can change for the better. Our Lord is a liberator. He frees us from anything that oppresses us. Obesity is oppressing, and God is ready and willing to free us. No darkness is too great for God to dispel. No matter how dark and dismal our physical condition may be, in the light of Christ, we can trim down.

Today's thought: We always look better in God's light than in our own darkness.

Sorry this is so late! We've had a busy day, Izzy had Bear... I did get to chat with Marcia! That was fun stuff. Anyway, tomorrow is TTT, come back and sign up, we are going to travel to the day we accepted Christ as our Lord. I look forward to reading all of your stories.

mpm ~ june 25

Mondaygrilled chicken
new potatoes roasted
fresh corn on the cob...grilled

Tuesdaygrilled hamburgers
grilled corn on the cob
baked chips

Wednesdaytacos
refried beans
salad

Thursdaygrilled pork chops
roasted veggies
rolls

FridayPioneer woman's chicken sandwiches
baked chips

Visit Org. junkie for more mpm's!

day fifteen ~ diet devo

"For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars." II Chronicles 16:9

My grandfather always said to me, "you plant your field, you have to harvest it." We made ourselves overweight, and we either have to live with it or work to change it. It is foolishness to over indulge, but that doesn't stop us from doing it. Anyone who is overweight knows well that we have to pay for our foolishness. True wisdom comes from God. When we decide that enough is enough, that it is the time to lose weight, we can know God can help us, especially through the toughest times. All we need to do is ask. God is looking for ways to help us, but He always waits until His help is invited. Don't hesitate. Call upon the Lord, and He will hear you.

Today's thought: If we turn from our foolishness, God will bless us!

weekend reflection~

Family~

• Amanda is home! She had a wonderful trip and took lots of pictures... you can see a few of them here.
• It's been a good week, everyone is healthy & happy!
• Izzy had bear on Monday and summer school on Wednesday.
  
• I enjoyed our visit with Matt's mom and aunt this weekend. They spent the night Friday night.
  
• I have been planning to get in Emelia's room and really organize it ... we made some headway this week which is wonderful and have plans to organize some little things this week. It feels great to have this almost finished.
  
• Izzy continues to use the potty for #2, I know tmi, but it is big news and it is two weeks now!

kitchen~

• I stuck to my menu this week. The chicken spaghetti worked well for our guests Friday night. Have I mentioned lately that I love my crockpot?
• I made the breakfast casserole for breakfast Saturday morning. It is great for company too. I use jalapeño cheese bread from the bakery at walmart and canadian bacon. It literally takes five minutes to put together the night before and then you just pop it in the oven and voila... breakfast!
  
• Mom also surprised me by making a big batch of cinnamon rolls, she has been given many awards for her cinnamon rolls. Matt's family jokingly suggest that she puts some kind of drug in them because they are too good to pass up. (Mom would never drug her rolls btw)...
• Dad brought me a bucket full of new potatoes from his garden that we have really been enjoying. I love little new potatoes!

blogville~

• Debi and I are trying to figure out how to have a bloggy baby shower for Carrie...
  
• I got to talk to Judi on the phone, that girl is a southern girl for sure... it was so much fun to visit with her!
• I got some goodmail off again. It's fun to send things out.
  
• I also found more diet devo books. Kahri, Jenileigh, Kim and Jenny (coachj) I have a book for each of you!
  

blessings~

• The blessing of walking in divine health.
• bubble yum
• uplifting spiritual teachings
• izzy's toothless grin
• family
• friends
• I sit here typing this list... and I have to pause and say that Izzy has been pretty high maintenance today. With company here, running around trying to keep everything in order etc. she let me know all day that my attention was needed by her and her alone. I got a little frustrated by this evening. I just glanced over at her... sitting right beside me, she has drifted to sleep. She is so precious and beautiful and all those feelings of frustration are instantly washed away and I'm left with deep thanksgiving for her life and love for her. We came so close to losing her forever just three short years ago, God gave us another chance with her and I thank God for her precious life.
• prayers of faith
• YOU!

My southern belle friend Judi is our host for weekend reflections, you can visit her to participate and to see others...

On another note... any suggestions for ttt?

diet devo ~ day fourteen

Good Saturday morning! Matt's mother and aunt Jane Ellen spent the night last night. I had breakfast casserole ready this morning and mom's famous cinnamon rolls - YUMMY stuff.
The whole gang (minus me :o) just went for a swim and I had time to shower ... It's going to be a busy day with the visitors and then church after they leave. I hope everyone is having a wonderful day.

"For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness; His countenance doth behold the upright."
Psalm 11:7

Don't let self-pity become part of your diet. It's very easy to feel sorry for yourself when you diet. First, you feel bad because you're overweight. Then you feel bad because of all you have given up. You feel badly because other people don't seem to understand what you're going through. They get to eat as they please. All of these things can make dieters feel extremely sorry for themselves. Take heart. God knows what you're going through, and He is delighted that you care so much about yourself. It is right and good to want to lose weight. Whenever we try to do what we think is right, God supports us completely. Replace self-pity with the blessed assurance that God is on your side.

Today's thought: Dieting is no reason for self-pity!

diet devo ~ day thirteen

"He who follows righteousness and mercy finds life, righteousness and honor." Proverbs 21:21

Long distance runners train themselves to think of the finish line. They visualize it just ahead. They say this keeps them from wanting to give up somewhere along the way. The reward of crossing the finish line is worth more than any pain or discomfort on the way. Dieters can learn from this. Instead of dwelling on how hungry we are, or how much we long for rich foods, we should continually think in terms of the rewards that await us at the end. Christians follow Christ with hope of a heavenly reward. Faith means we await something yet to come. Dieting means we live in the hope of trimming down and looking fit.

Today's Thought: The reward of our diet is greater than the sacrifice!

Oh girls! I have so much to do today... but because I love you so much I am typing this devo out first. We have guests coming tonight (matt's mom & aunt) to stay until tomorrow. Since Amanda got home from Canada yesterday she has so much laundry and stuff to put away. I need you to send some energy prayers my way :o)...

I talked to Judi on the phone for a bit this morning. I wish I could hear everyone's voice... I sound like a little girl. Telemarketers always ask to speak to my mama or daddy. I say, "they are not here." Judi sounds like a southern girl for sure. I don't think I have an accent. I did have a little of the Okie slang and when I was in college I took a voice and articulation class that pointed out all the Okie sounds I make so I try not to, it might creep up every once in a while though. It was cool to put a voice to her though and fun to talk to her IRL kinda.

Have a great Friday!

friday's feast

Appetizer
Name a funny habit you have.

funny? I crunch ice... that's not funny, I use hand gel constantly... nope, not funny...

Soup
If you could instantly know how to play a musical instrument, which one would you pick?

the piano. It just looks like so much fun to sit down and play the piano, making beautiful music.

Salad
How long is your hair?

Probably longer than it should be... several inches below my shoulders. I put in in a ponytail or clip a lot though.

Main Course
When was the last time you forgave someone, and who was it?

wow, that's a tough one. I forgive little things daily because I cannot expect God's forgiveness if I don't forgive. But, I guess the latest major forgiveness I gave was to myself. I was apparently harboring some unforgiveness against myself for Izzy's accident and I have realized that I have to even forgive me. That was the hardest of all.

Dessert
What is your favorite kitchen appliance?

crockpot. hands down :o)... with a close second being the immersion blender (I can't seem to keep from killing) but is perfect for a lot of things from omelets to pancakes, icing, to izzy's protein drinks.

Amanda's home!!!

The whole group...
Amanda took this pick, can you guess why?

In front of a pretty fountain in Montreal

I think she said this is the Parliament?

Niagara Falls...

Amanda with her buddy Jacob.

St. Joseph's Oratory

Old Montreal

shopping in Montreal, not sure what she is holding :o)

She brought home fun souvenirs... got me a keychain that says montreal & annie... and a teddy bear. She brought Emelia & Izzy cute t-shirts and a hat for Bailey. Matt a coffee mug. She was very thoughtful to remember everyone. It's good to have her home!

I would like to thank...

Who doesn't love a good bloggy award/meme thing? I do. Thanks Lorie (creating memories for a lifetime) for the Rockin' Girl Blogger! She apparently thinks I rock!

I'm passing the torch as is done here in the neighborhood...

Corrie ... because you are funny and just a nice person! you rock!

Jenna ... because you were my first bloggy bff and you rock!

Jenny (coachj) ... because you are my spiritual buddy and you rock!

Ann ... because you have open eyes and great faith, you rock!

Judi ... because you are the bloggy sweetheart and you rock!

Sheryl ... because you are a constant encourager you rock!

Irene ... because you are a God loving Greek you rock!

Gail & Stacy... because you are awesome sisters who rock!

Karen ... because you are a wonderful author you rock!

Let's face it, I should list you all... you all rock. Thanks for being such wonderful bloggers that I love coming and reading what's going on in your lives and telling you about mine!

day twelve diet devo~

"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded." James 4:8


Dieting involves a constant struggle between two intense desires: the desire to lose weight and the desire to indulge in the foods we love. This is not an easy struggle. We are double minded. God wants all of His children to learn to be single minded. Once we decide that something is important, we should learn to stick to it. That's not easy to do on our own. For that reason, it is helpful for us to draw close to God. He will listen as we tell our troubles. The closer we are to God, the more He can help us through difficult times. If we ask Him to, God will help us become single minded. He is as anxious as we are to see us attain our goal.

Today's thought: God will keep us on the right track!

diet devo day eleven~

Is it already Wednesday? Amanda called this morning and they are headed to Niagara Falls. She has had so much fun I don't think she is ready to come home. I am so excited to see all her pictures and hear all about all the things she was able to see and do.

I have to tell you about Melody's hair event yesterday, but I'm going to wait for the pictures she promised to email me (hint hint)... I'll just tell you she showed up with this picture and said she wanted to look like this:

I reminded her that I am not a professional but she said she trusted me... let's just say Ellen Barkin would probably be jealous of her hair :o).
Anyway, I'll post her picture when she sends it and you can see how good it looks.
***updated*** here is the pic Melody sent this morning.



On to the winner... Jodi's name was randomly drawn. I have drawn two other names and if they have the other two books like it when I go next Monday (Bear is in Edmond where the Christian bookstore is) I'll send them to the other two also and tell you who you are... If you didn't get picked, I'm sorry... I wish I had one to send to every one of you. But, I will keep posting them on my blog as long as you're interested and like Elizabeth said, " Why do we need the book when you put it out here for us everyday?" :o)

"And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7

When I get hungry, I get nervous and anxious. I find that I snap at people and have a very short temper. This is an indication that food is more than just a pleasure; it is an addiction. To kick an addiction requires restraint and peace. Jesus Christ promises blessed peace and rest to all who come to Him. It is important for us to rely on the gentle comfort of God when we face the trials of dieting. God knows what we are going through, and He rejoices when we turn to Him for peace of mind and heart. It is not vital that we understand how this peace can come to us. What is important is that we truly believe God will grant it.

Today's Thought: In God, there is peace that is greater than the turmoil caused by our dieting!

diet devo day ten! & a giveaway!

Wow, another busy day has begun. I'm finishing up feeding Iz her breakfast, Melody is coming over on her lunch break for a cut and highlights (and fyi I am not a hairdresser, it's just a hobby)...
I was watching "little people, big world" while feeding iz, if you watch it... did you see the little guy Matt helped get adopted, he has so much expression in his little eyes that it brought tears to my eyes. I've noticed since Izzy's accident, because I have to really look for her cues and gestures so closely that I am in tune more with children. I see moms at the store with their kids being "bratty" and can see what they need, while their moms just look so aggravated with them. I want to scream, he's tired, or he just wants a cookie. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a 'softy' (too much) with my other kids... but, it is interesting what you can read in a persons face when you really look at them rather than past them. I cannot wait for Izzy to just simply tell me what she wants, although I'm getting really good at guessing and working with her body language... She's a doll and I love her very much. I can't believe this is day ten on the diet devos. I think I'm doing pretty well. I weighed this morning and I think I have lost a couple of pounds. That's good. I even walked again last night. I want to make it a habit to get up and walk after Matt leaves for work, especially while it is summer and the kids can sit with Iz and maybe one can go with me? But, there is always something going on. There is a 24 hour gym locally I have though about joining. I joined curves for a year and we were out of town so much doing hyperbarics with Iz I didn't get to go as much as I wanted. I did enjoy it and felt like I gained a lot of strength and I know I lost a lot of inches. I want to be fit, like I am visualizing breaking out of this shell that is around my body, does that make sense? Maybe not, it's hard to explain... well, here's the devo for today.
I picked a copy up for Mandalyn yesterday and I got an extra so if you are interested in it leave a comment telling me why you want it and I'll randomly send it to one of ya'll!

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12:2

The stomach is a spoiled brat. When we miss even one meal, it kicks up a fuss and makes us feel as though we're going to starve. Of course, we're in no danger whatsoever, but once our stomachs get started, it is hard to ignore them. To diet means to engage in mind over matter. We need to realize that we can get by on a lot less food than we actually eat. We need to renew our mind, change our thinking, and decide that we're not going to be made a slave to our stomachs. We resent it when someone else tries to control us. Why should we so easily succumb to our own stomachs? When we refuse to be ruled by anything but the spirit of God, then we truly please Him.

Today's thought: God can liberate us from slavery to the stomach!

time travel Tuesday ~ cooking experience edition

You know I'm always open for suggestions for our travel on Tuesdays... well, this week Barbara H. suggested we go back to our first cooking experience. Good idea Barbara H.!

So, how about it... do you remember your first cooking experience, or if not, do you have a memorable cooking experience... how about the first time you cooked for your hubbie?

I have two memories that come to mind for this topic... they both involve Matt!

Once when we were dating, I must have been maybe 17, mom and dad had left earlier in the morning and he came over so I decided to make him a proper breakfast like mama makes. This of course would have to include gravy. Well, I thought I was doing it just right until I went to pour it into a pretty dish for serving (I was so trying to impress him)... It came out of that pan like a jello mold. Matt walked up behind me to witness this mess. I then tried to pour it down the drain to erase my mistake and it clogged the drain. What a mess. I now make the best gravy around fyi :o)...

Another memory is when Matt always bragged about his grandmother's cream cheese brownies. I thought, that's simple enough ... I'll make them. So I made brownies and added some cream cheese to the mixture and voila, light brown cream cheese brownies. I was so proud. Until he looked at them and said, "these aren't what Jackie makes." Well, he never told me that the cream cheese was marbled in the brownies - HELLO. So, I called her the next day and got the official directions. I was from then on the cream cheese brownie queen.

I'm sure I've goofed up so many more times than this, but these two memories are the first to come to my mind. I can't wait to hear about all your fun cooking firsts, I'm sure they are a 'hoot.'

chit chat & day nine~

Amanda called again last night. She is still having so much fun. They were shopping in Old Montreal when I spoke with her. The new "people mover" type bus that our church just purchased has apparently broken this week. I think they think it is the transmission, but they are now taking the subway around town and will be taking the bus in to the shop today. Hopefully this won't delay their homecoming next weekend, because I miss her! Anyway, please continue to pray for her safety. I am so glad she is having such a great experience. My campers are still pooped out. Emelia said it was the best week of her life. She is 9 years old and didn't get homesick one minute... Bailey had a good time too, but was glad to be home.

I'm getting ready to get ready to take Izzy to Bear in an hour or so... I just wanted to get this devo posted for those of you reading them. I am going to stop off at the Christian bookstore to see if they have more copies.

Day nine~

"For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come." I Timothy 4:8

There is an old adage that says, "Don't put the cart before the horse." Many people try to lose weight without a specific goal in mind. Often people set a goal that is unrealistic. In our attempts to become more Christian, we grow a little at a time. God doesn't expect us to be perfect right away. He knows that our growth takes time. The same is true of our attempts to lose weight. We need to take it a little at a time. Crash diets and heavy exercise programs are not the way to go. Our Christian growth should provide us with an example. Let us approach our diets with patience and take it a small step at a time.

Todays thought: Dieting is easier if we try to lose weight little by little.

day eight ~ diet devo & 18th anniversary stuff...

Well, Matt & I finally made it out to celebrate our 18th anniversary. We went to Steak & Ale... I had the chicken gratella. Here's what it looked like...

It was pretty good, but I brought 3/4 of it home. Since I have been doing the diet devotionals I have really had such a knowledge of when I am full. I just stopped and pushed my plate away. Matt offered to polish it off for me (after his 12 oz steak :o) but I thought it would be good to have it for dinner. It was mashed potatoes, grilled chicken with artichoke hearts, sun dried tomatoes and blue cheese, all drizzled with balsamic vinegar. Sounds odd, but it was pretty tasty. I raked most of the blue cheese away. Too much flavor. We had a nice meal together and then did some shopping... we got a new weed eater & saw Izzy's ST at lowes.

After Izzy's blog redo I was inspired to rework my friend Julie's blog... so I made her a new header and changed her background. click here to view it.

Here's day eight...

"This is the bread which came down from heaven--not as your fathers ate the manna, and are dead. He who eats this bread will live forever." John 6:58

Face it: Dieting wouldn't be so hard if food didn't taste so good! Like anything good, we want to get as much of it as we can. It's easy to place a high value on the food we eat. But there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. God has given us many freedoms, but one we should not abuse is the freedom to consume as much food as we want. No one can limit what we eat except ourselves. We need to realize that our daily bread supplies what we need, not what we want. Excessive eating is selfishness, and selfishness is sin. When we feel the urge to overeat, let us turn to God and nourish ourselves on the true bread that comes from Him - His word.

Today's thought: God's bread of life is nonfattening!

mpm ~ june 18

MondayCurry chicken
with rice
broccoli

TuesdayPork chops & potatoes in crockpot
corn on the cob

WednesdayGrilled chicken
baked new potatoes (thanks dad)
grilled corn on the cob

Thursdayroast (crockpot)
carrots & potatoes
rolls

FridayChicken spaghetti
garlic bread
green beans
salad

Be sure to come back tomorrow for time travel tuesday, we are going to go back to our first or most memorable cooking experience!