One Thousand Gifts - Gifts 1 - 5

I started a new bible study this week, "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp.

I am hoping to commit to recording my gifts here.

1. The stillness of my classroom before students arrive.
2.  Technology to be able to Facetime my mom.  Being able to see her and talk to her is such a blessing.
3.  My bible study girls who encourage me and walk with me in growing our faith.
4.  Music...which can often put into words what I cannot.
5.  Sweet texts from Kyle during the day.

Calculus, Germs, and a Birthday

I'm a bad blogger.  Since early January, I have been covered up in Calculus, germs, and a birthday. 

I'm perhaps a lunatic for trying to take my Calculus class on-line.  It's one of my FOUR (EEEK!!!!!) remaining classes on my Middle Grades Ed degree.  It's been so long since I've had a math class that is this hard--probably high school.  (That was 15 years ago!  Geez, I'm getting old...)  And to say it's hard is an understatement.  Its been brutal and eating up every spare moment of free time I have.  And, well, with two children under four--who has free time to begin with!?!

Germs, germs, and more germs have invaded our house.  Since late November, my poor Kohen has had the stomach bug 3x, pneumonia, and the flu.  Kade has managed to stay well, with the minor exception of the stomach bug that he and the rest of my family shared.  Honestly, it spread to 12 people in my family in less than 2 weeks.  (I am the lone woman standing, which is good--because who has time to get sick with Calculus looming over my head?!?)


Kade turned 4 on February 10th!  I have tons of pictures I need to upload from his party.  Maybe I'll save that for another post...

For the past few weeks, that's my life in a nut shell.

I am...

I found this paper tucked away in some bible study stuff I was going through last week.  It's called "I am..." and it gives you all of these prompts to fill in your own information into the sentence.  Since my blogging brainstorming has been so uneventful lately, I thought, "Why not?"  So here you go...

I am...
I am the second daughter born in 1980 to parents who worked for a local food distribution company.  I am the child who played with Barbies, anything Bart Simpson, and baby dolls.  I am the child who loved to climb trees, play outside, and aggravate my older sister.  I am the child who dreamed of being a police officer and never thought I'd be a suicide surviovor.

I am the teenager who learned the hard way that my parent's are much smarter than I gave them credit for being.  I am the teenager who wore hand-me-downs from an older sister, Levi's Buttonflys, and tight-rolled my jeans.  I am the teenager who hated school, reading, or anything else that had to do with learning.  I am the teenager who spent too much time at Skateland, thinking about boys, and cutting myself off from my family.  I am the teenager who wanted to be loved deeply without facing heartache, and I knew that was impossible.

I am the woman who licks her finger to clean a smudge off her children's faces.  I am a woman who loves to be encouraged, spending quiet weekends at home, and Sunday naps. 

I am the mother who loves to hear her children laugh but loses all rational if they get sick.  I am the mother whose moments of perfect bliss come when she can bathe without interruption.

I am the career student who wants to be smarter than necessary and wishes to become a Middle Grades Educator.  I am the person who craves attention, but loves my independence.  I am the person wants a clean house 24/7 and watches too much reality TV in order to make the clean house 24/7 possible.

I am the women who still loves to lick the spoon when baking a cake, who still longs to travel the world, and still lives paycheck to paycheck.  I am the person who dreams of making a difference in other people's lives and who hopes that in all she does people will see little of her and more of Jesus.

Jan 4, 1998: The Day I almost Died...

I repost this every year, because I don't want to ever forget the unseen sovereign hand of a Mighty God who saved me.

*******************************************************************************

Jan 4, 1998 will forever be imprinted on my heart. It was the day before I would begin the second semester of my Senior year of high school. It was a Sunday, and I was on my lunch break from the part-time job I worked. I went home to grab a quick bite to eat. When I left my house to return to work, my mom said, "Keep it (your car) on the road and out of the ditches." I had no idea what she was talking about or why she even said that. She hadn't ever said that before. So, without much thought further I pulled out of the driveway and headed back to work.

I had driven this road countless times since getting my license almost 2 years prior. I had even made the comment "I can drive it (the road) with my eyes closed." Boy, at times we can be so foolish, can't we? The road I grew up on was very curvy--much too curvy for the 55 mph posted speed limit. As I was going around one of the curves, my pager went off (those were once the cool things to have). As I looked down, I ran off the road and over corrected. I hit another vehicle head on. Because I hit another moving vehicle, it was double impact. I hit my steering wheel at 110 mph.

This is the after math...or what I most often refer to as "the day I almost died."





Brace yourself... This picture takes my breath away every time I look at it....



This day haunts me and often makes me wonder and reflect on what God's purpose is for my life? Why was I spared?  It's partially the reason I chose my One Word for 2013 to be:

So, you may be wondering how on Earth I could survive the mangled mess that was once my car.
It's simple: God's grace and mercy. The one characteristic that I hated so much about myself--my petite size--saved my life. The space between my steering wheel and seat was just enough space for my broken, beat up body.  I was trapped in my car for two hours as rescue works called in the "jaws of life" to free me. (I met a former friend of my grandpa's who told me that he tried to pull on my car so much his hands were bleeding. That's before the rescue crews arrived. Thank you Mr. Willis!)

Once, I was finally freed, I was airlifted to Mission Memorial Hospital in Asheville where I spent about a week in ICU. I had 8 hours worth of surgery the day of the accident to implant metal rods in both of my legs. I had broken my left femur and right tibula. I also broke my pelvis, my lung was collapsed, and I had countless staples and stitches.

Finally, I was conscience and moved to a regular room.

From Left to Right:
Amber Seagle, Carrie Houston, Me, Jessica Reitzel

Me and My Grandpa

Me and my Aunt Marie

On January 30, after 25 days in the hospital, I finally was allowed to go home. Home, sweet home. It was 2 days before my 18th birthday.

Me holding my niece Kenleigh

I spent the rest of my Senior year being a home-bound student, attending physical therapy 3 times a week, and learning how to walk again.....Oh! And being so very grateful and undeserving of being alive.

So even 15 years later, I can say without reservation

"I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well."

Psalm 139:14

Happy Anniversary to me! It's good to be alive!

It's okay Thursday...

I'm linking up once again with Amber who hosts "It's Okay Thursdays."

It's okay that

• My three year old out lasted me on NYE.  He made it until 11:45, and I was in bed shortly after 10pm.  To be fair, I had to work New Years Day.

• I start Calculus on Monday and I'm scared!!!  I haven't had a math this hard since high school.  Y'all pray for me and my sanity.  Pray for my family too :)
• I *thought* I lost my TI-83 calculator, so I purchased a used one...Then, guess what?! I found it.  (I'm selling one by the way if you know someone who needs one.)
• I picked my One Word for 2013 and I'm very excited to try and determine what Gods purpose is for my life.

• I chose to exercise my 2nd Amendment right yesterday and purchase my first pistol.
• I'm taking a concealed weapons class later this month, and I'm very excited about it.
• I failed at all of my 2012 New Years Resolutions.
• Instead of making New Year's Resolutions for 2013, I have noted a few things I want to improve on: growing closer to the Lord, taking more pictures, sending more cards, and showing acts of kindness.  I'm thinking I may find my purpose somewhere along the way...
• I found this chicken nugget smiling at me in my freezer.  It must be thinking of my inability to cook...lol

That's all for now!  Happy Thursday Friends! :)

Reflecting on 2012

I wrote this post last year on New Years Day.  It was fun (and often difficult) to reflect on 2011.  I will use the same questions to reflect on 2012.

I received an email from (in)courage concerning personal reflection... In the email, 20 questions were given as a spring board to get the reflection gears grinding. You can click here to get a free pdf. printable of the questions if you want to answer them yourself or with family. If you aren't on (in)courage's mailing list, please consider doing so. Every email is so uplifting and glorifying of the Lord.


1. What was the single best thing that happened to you this year?
Being asked to teach Sunday School--God revealed Himself to me in a big, BIG way at that time.  I was struggling with finishing some last minute classes on my Middle Grades Education degree, and I was beginning to question whether God was saying "No" or "Not now."  God opened a window into my being able to do what I'm passionate about (teach).  It's even more special that I get to teach on Who I am most passionate about:  Him.

2. What was the single most challenging thing?
I'm still challenged daily in my walk with the Lord.  I strive to live a life that is pleasing to Him, and I tend to fail more often than succeed.  The most challenging thing for me was most likely being at the hospital with my friend Shellie when her newborn son passed away.  I wanted to be there for her because I love her and her family dearly.  However, during this time I was taken aback at how ill-prepared I am to handle tragedy.  I completely froze in this moment.

3. What was an unexpected joy this year?
My job was outsourced in late 2011, so I began working for a new department within our company in late February.  It was a forced demotion for me, and I'll be the first to admit that I wasn't very happy with the transition.  However, it has been so much better than I ever imagined.  I love my co-workers, and we have blended so well together.  I get to work 4 ten hour days so I have every Wednesday off (probably my most favorite unexpected joy).  And, my boss is so great to work for. 

4. What was an unexpected obstacle?
The death of my friend's son, Styles.  He was born 8 weeks premature, and he lived 28 days.  He was so tiny, but absolutely perfect.  I've never experienced anything like this so close to "home."  It's be so hard on Shellie, his mom.  Will you help me pray for her?

5. Pick 3 words to describe your year?
I said this last year, but it still fits:  Overall, I'm blessed!

6. Pick 3 words your spouse would use to describe your 2012 (Don't ask them! Guess based on how your spouse sees you).
Busy, Tired, Grouchy

7. Pick 3 words your spouse would use to describe their 2012 (Again without asking them).
Busy, Tired, Grouchy :)

8. What were the best books you read this year?
I would love nothing more than to read, but I seriously don't have the time.  When I pick up any book, Kade will say "Read me the 'This Little Boy Named Kade' book."  Every book I try to read, he thinks is about him.  Instead of reading, I make up stories like, "This little boy named Kade really needs to get his sleep at night so he will grow up to be a big, strong man like Daddy."  Precious moments--and wouldn't trade them for anything!  I do plan to "try" to read more this year.

9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?
My husband--we've had an open line of communication this year.  It's nice to know that I can go to him and talk about absolutely anything.

My mom--she goes above and beyond to take care of my children so I can work.  She has a hard job keeping my two boys and my niece Sarabeth.  I honestly have no idea how she does it... 

The Women of Grace at my church--I've developed so many friendships in 2012, and I'm thankful for the wisdom, guidance, and prayer of these women.

10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?
My job transition in early 2012 and still monitoring/eliminating all the trash I'm taking in...

11. In what ways did you grow emotionally?
I said this last year, but it's still relevant:  I learned to have lesser expectations of people and to expect more from myself.  The only thing I would add for 2012 is:  Some people will never be your friend no matter how much you wish/want them to be.  Move on to the people who will and appreciate every second of those friendships.

12. In what ways did you grow spiritually?
I completed the bible study "No Other Gods" by Kelly Minter with my church.  It opened my eyes to some present day idols I have in my life.  I realized that I was putting so many things before the Lord, and even though I've completed this study--I still feel like there is something I missed, so I plan to do it again sometime in 2013.

13. In what ways did you grow physically?
I trained for and completed my first 5k.  My goal wasn't to be the fastest.  My only goal was to survive.  I've had to stop running right now because with my asthma, I can not breathe in cold air.  I do plan on restarting the Couch to 5k in early spring and (hopefully) I will be able to run the entire 5k next year.

14. In what ways did you grow in your relationships with others?
The biggest growth in my relationships occurred by taking time out to appreciate the people in my life and their differences.  I have prayed about ways I can be a better friend, mother, wife, daughter, etc and I can see God working in those areas of my life.  So, although the relationships themselves may not have experienced growth, my role in those relationships did.

15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
Professionally:  My co-workers.  We have a great time and work well together.
At Home: Hearing the laughter of my kids and husband.  Knowing that we are all safe, together, and happy.

16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
Professionally: Staying on Task =) (same as last year)
At Home: Keeping my house up (also, same as last year).  This year, I plan to accept that with two small children, there will always be something that needs to be cleaned, tossed out, or put away.  I.Will.Find.Balance.In.2013!

17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
Same as last year:  Probably all the time I spent on Facebook.  Shocking, I know.  A close second would be all the time I spend watching TV.

18. What was the best way you used your time in this past year?
I tried to send more cards this year.  I tried to text people more often too.  Edifying others.  (There will be more of the same in 2013!)

19. What was the biggest thing you learned this year?
Life, as unfair as it may be at times, is so precious.  We should literally approach each day having purpose.  Another biggie is that it's time to let some things go.

20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2011 for you.
I copied this Facebook status in 2011, and it's still very relevant for my 2012 year:
"(2013) is hours away.  As I reflect on (2012), there have been highs and lows, good and bad times, tears and laughter, losses and gains, deaths and births.  Through all of it, I have been gently cradled in the Lord's arms as He carried me through the lows (and blessed me with the highs).  His footsteps were visible as He walked beside me in the good and bad times.  In (2013) I will continue to trust "His Unseen Hand" (and give Him the honor and glory that He rightly deserves.  I will commit to living my life with purpose.)
**I added anything in ( ) for 2013.


Happy 2013 Sweet Friends! May this be the year the Lord returns!  Looking for the King in 2013 =)

When the Children Cry...

Somehow this song seems entirely appropriate for the recent events...As the family and loved ones prepare to say their final goodbyes to their sweet sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, grandchildren, mothers, aunts...may we always remember that this did not take our Lord by surprise. He is waiting to help heal the broken hearts of so many...please continue to pray for others as you would want them to be praying for you.


The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart..." Psalm 34:1

Gingerbread Houses with a Christian twist...

I created this lesson to share with my Sunday School Class as we build Gingerbread Houses together.  Please feel free to use this with your family and loved ones too!  I gave each child a copy of the information below to explain the parts to family and friends.

Follow me on

The Gingerbread House

God can be found everywhere and in everything. Using Scripture and the Gingerbread House, I’m going to show you how you can find Christian symbolism by looking at my gingerbread house.

As you can see, everything is edible. I was tempted to eat some of the candy as I was constructing my house, but I didn’t. I also had to exercise patience while constructing the house. At times, I had to hold each piece together waiting on the icing to set. I was impatient, but the Lord helped me be patient. I took my time with each part, and I did my best work. My bible tells me:

James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. My bretheren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Know this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

James 1:1-4

We used SEVEN graham crackers. God introduced the number SEVEN as a symbol of completion of His initial creative act. It is a number which represents perfection, obedience, and rest. My bible tells me:

Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work, which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens.

Genesis 2:1-4

Each graham cracker is divided into TWO smaller crackers. Just like SEVEN has significant meaning in the Bible, so does the number TWO. God’s word is represented by the number TWO. For example, the Bible is divided into TWO sections: The Old and New Testaments; Noah gathered TWO of every living creature to board the Ark. My bible also tells me:

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.”

Hebrews 4:12

You will notice that each graham cracker is turned the same way, with the lines going up/down. When I pray, my bible reminds me from where my help comes from:

“My voice shalt thou hear in the morning,

O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.”

Psalm 5:3

There is only one DOOR, just as there is only one way to Heaven.

“Just saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life;

no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

John 14:6

There is a DOOR KNOB as to appear as if we could open the door.

“Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be

opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh

findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Matthew 7:7-8

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear my voice, and open the door,

I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

Revelation 3:20

There is a TREE. TREES are very symbolic in the bible as bearing fruit and deep roots. A TREE is connected with man’s sin in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve ate from the forbidden fruit of the TREE of Good and Evil. At Calvary, the Lord Jesus Christ died by crucifixion upon a wooden cross. The TREE is decorated with sprinkles to remind me how the Lord sprinkles our lives with His many blessings. My bible tells me:

“Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.” Matthew 7:17

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, netither shall cease from yielding fruit.”

Jeremiah 17:7-8

There is a trinity SNOWMAN.

There are THREE Windows to remind me that God is Omnipotent (all powerful), Omniscience (all knowing), and Omnipresent (always present). Just as if looking through a window, God knows everything about us. My bible tells me:

“O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.

Psalm 139:1-5

“The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.”

Proverbs 15:3

The bottom part of our house is like a BOX for a Gift. I am reminded of God’s gift to me:

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

The ROOF is shaped like a triangle, reminding me of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It also reminds me of the process of life: Birth, Life, and Death. I am fearfully and wonderfully made with my Spirit, Soul, and Body. The ROOF being 3-sided also reminds me that the Jesus resurrected on the 3rd day. My bible tells me:

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father,

and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”

Matthew 28:19

“And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again.”

Matthew 17:23

The CANDY CANES on the roof are symbolic too! The stripes that are red are like the blood shed for me. The white stripes are for the Savior who is sinless and pure.  And also, my bible tells me:

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities:

the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

Isaiah 53:5

There is a gum drop for the CHIMNEY.  When a CHIMNEY is working, it is the one way for smoke to bellow out.  It makes me think of the sin and ugliness (unrighteousness) leaving us when we accept Jesus as our savior and daily ask Him for the forgiveness of our sins.  My bible tells me:

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:9

The FOUNDATION is a scarlet plate and the gingerbread house is surrounded by SNOW. My bible tells me:

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:
 though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…”

Isaiah 1:18

Now my house is complete. As I look over every detail, I am reminded how God is my refuge. He will provide all that I need: food, water, shelter, and rest. I am also reminded of the place the Lord is preparing for me!

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Psalm 46:1

“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so,

I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.”

John 14:2

*******************************************************************************

Ingredients for each house:

7 graham cracker halves (each cracker should have 2 smaller crackers)
            *1 box of crackers should make about 6-7 houses
4 miniature candy canes
1 Red (durable) plate
1 chocolate morsel
1 gum drop
Assorted seasonal candy, cookies, etc:
   I used the following:
*snowmen cupcake candy
*miniature tree cookies
*M & M's
*Sprinkles
*shredded coconut
*Zip lock bag filled with icing
      **when you cut the hole in the bag's corner, cut it as small as possible
      **I used sandwich bags, but next time I will use larger bags because some of them opened as the
          kids were squeezing out icing!

Ingredients and Directions for the Icing:

Make Royal Icing

Ingredients:

1 pound powdered sugar

3 egg whites (at room temp) 
     **room temp can be as easy as placing eggs in a bowl of WARM water for 5 minutes

1/2 tsp cream of tartar

1/2 tsp vanilla

 

***Yields 3 cups

 

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in medium size bowl. With mixer, blend until smooth, then beat at high speed until very stiff (about 5-7 minutes). 

 

NOTE: Because the icing dries very quickly, make each batch just before you are ready to use it. IF you must store for a few hours or overnight, cover tightly with plastic wrap. When using, keep container covered with damp cloth or paper towel.

 

If icing is too thick when using add a few drops of water.

For thicker icing, beat in a little extra powdered sugar.

Instructions:



STEP ONE
Make your Door and Windows



STEP TWO
Make your roof and add candy canes
Turn over and repeat

STEP THREE
Build the base of your house

STEP FOUR
Add the roof and gum drop chimney

STEP FIVE
After waiting about 30 minutes to allow your icing to set,
add some icing to your roof &
decorate your windows

STEP SIX
(Outline the entire house in icing and let dry)

STEP SEVEN
Transfer to a red plate and glue down the house with icing
Spread some icing and add coconut.
Let dry for 4 hours to fully harden

*This activity takes longer than the hour I attempted to complete it.  Be sure you plan for enough time.   Next year, this will be an activity we complete over 2 Sunday School hours.

It's Okay... Thursdays

I've been stalking reading my friend Cat's blog for the past few weeks, and I decided to join in this week's link up...

It's Okay Thursday is about listing things in your life that you are okay with.  So, without further ado, It's okay that...

• I'm a copycat when I can't come up with my own creative ideas for blogging....
• Although I am almost finished Christmas shopping, I still haven't wrapped my first present....
• When we forgot to move our Elf Kip the other night, that I quickly distracted the boys and found a new hiding place....
• I'm the last woman alive who hasn't read the "50 Shades" series...(or "Twilight")...
• I found I had put my son's clip on tie in my purse this week when I did laundry (I still don't know why...)
• I've been experimenting with couponing to save some money for our family, but I'm still not the mom who can pay $0.25 for a cart full of groceries...
• Although I finished my World Literature class yesterday, I still haven't completed my last week of bible study... (This is on the weekend's agenda!)
•  My car's hatch is full of pine needles from bringing our Christmas tree home 2 weeks ago...

Overall, life is very busy...but it's okay!

30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 27-28 & Potato Soup recipe

30 Days of Thankfulness

Day 27:
I am thankful my school semester is almost over!  Turns out that I'm not so much a fan of World Literature.  I'm also thankful that after this semester, I only have FOUR more classes left!!!!  (If you listen closely, you just may hear me squealing!)
Day 28:
I am thankful for days off and crock pots.  With my new job, came new advantages.  Most importantly, I have every Wednesday off.  Some Wednesdays, I keep my boys and have a mommy/me day.  Others, I spend time doing school work, grocery shopping, cleaning, napping, or what-ever-else needs to be done.  Yesterday I tried a new crock pot recipe for "Baked Potato Soup" I found on pinterest.  I wanted to share it with you all!  It was sooooo good (and super easy)!

Baked Potato Soup

Ingredients:

1 - 30oz bag of frozen shredded hash browns

3 - 14oz cans of chicken broth

1 - cream of chicken soup ( I used Family Size)

1/2 cup - onion finely chopped (I used 1/3)

1/4 teaspoon - ground pepper

1 - cream cheese

Garnish soup with:

green onions

cheddar cheese

sour cream

real bacon pieces

Directions:

Combine frozen hash browns, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, onions, and pepper in a crock pot.  Cook on Low for 6-8 hours.  About an hour before you eat, add the cream cheese.  Serve when cream cheese is melted thoroughly  Garnish with baked potato toppings!

This yields enough to feed 6-7 people. 

It doesn't get much easier than this folks!  It's very, very good! 

If you have any other super easy (and good!) crock pot recipes, let me know!  I'd love some more.  I might end up being a little more comfortable in the kitchen after all! 



30 Days of Thankgiving: Day 20-26

Boy!  I've really gotten behind, haven't I?  I'll try to be brief!

Day 20:
I'm thankful for my Sunday School class.  Such a sweet group of students who make me laugh, think, and teach to the best of my ability--they deserve nothing less than my best, and I trust God to make me sound a lot smarter than I truly am.

Day 21:
I am thankful that I have some really awesome friends! 

Day 22:
I am thankful for the Lord's blessings on me and my family.  We have a roof over our head, clothes on our backs, food on our table, and shoes on our feet.  We are blessed

Day 23:
I am thankful that I choose to skip out on Black Friday shopping keep my sanity by shopping online.

Day 24:
I am thankful that almost a month before Christmas, I am almost finished with my Christmas shopping.  Actually, I was finished.  Then, we decided to draw names at Kyle's parent's house.  So, now I have an excuse to shop a little more...  Ha!

Day 25:
I am thankful for Sunday naps.  Actually, I am thankful for any-day naps. 

Amen!  Amen!  AMEN!

Day 26:
I am thankful for long conversations with friends.  Although it may feel like we've gone forever without talking, we always fall back into coversation so easily.

30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 17-19

30 Days of Thanksgiving

Happy Monday, ya'll! 

Continuing with my 30 Days of Thanksgiving:

Day 17
I am thankful for my bible study group.  We are continuing with Kelly Minter's "No Other Gods,"  and I have learned so so much about myself the past few weeks.  I've put so many things before the Lord, some intentionally while others unintentionally.  The g-od (little g) I am truly struggling most with is people pleasing.  I put other people's opinions before the Lord's, and God is slowly opening my eyes to how I should only live my life to please Him.  This may turn out to be one of my most favorite bible studies. 

Day 18
I am thankful for my grandparents.  My Grandma Pat is such a special person.  She is always praying for others and putting others before herself.  She is a breast cancer survivor, and we are so thankful that God's healing hand has touched her!  My Grandpa Don is also very special.  He was the grandpa he didn't have to be, and I adore him.  He has a smile that is contagious, and I love his laugh.   

Day 19
I'm thankful for short work weeks and time with family.  We will be celebrating Thanksgiving with my family on Thursday at lunchtime.  We will be celebrating Thanksgiving with Kyle's family Thursday evening.  I'm thankful for the prosperity to indulge myself into a Turkey coma multiple times on Thursday!

I've also been listing ways I am thankful for infertility on my other blog.  You can read more about that here. 

30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 16 and Pumpkin Spice Cupcake recipe

Occassionally, I cook.  For those of you who know me, this may come as shocking news to you...but occassionally I feel a little brave and venture out of my comfort zone and into the kitchen.  Kyle does most of the cooking while I do most of the cleaning.  If I'm honest, I like it that way.  I'm not a "neat" cook, and when I see clutter or mess it sets my OCD into full motion.  Imagine my surprise  when I'm trying to get those little mixing attachment thingys out of my hand mixer (see--I don't even know what they're called!), and I kinda sorta accidently turned on the mixer.  I had cake mix EVERYWHERE!!!!  So even though this recipe took me 3 hrs to make, I'm well aware it will probably only take most of you 30 minutes.  Stick with me...it's good...and if my finished product was good, yours will be better! 

A friend shared the recipe for Pumpkin Cupcakes on her blog, so I thought...what the heck.  I'll give it a shot.  And y'all--they were actually edible. 
Since the receipe isn't rocket science, I thought I'd pass it on to you.  Here's what you need:

Ingredients:

1 Spice Cake Mix
1 Can of Pumpkin Puree
Milk

Icing Ingredients:
1 Tsp Vanilla
1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon
1 Pkg Cream Cheese, Softened
1 Stick of Butter, melted
4 Cups of Powdered Sugar

Yields 20-24 cupcakes


Directions:

In a large bowl mix together dry cake mix and pumpkin puree.  Add enough milk to make the batter as thick/thin as you want it.  Mix Well.

Fill cupcakes 3/4

Bake on 350 for 20 minutes

Icing:
In a bowl mix together cream cheese, melted butter, and 4 cups of powdered sugar.  Add 1 Tsp of Vanilla and 1 Tsp of Cinnamon.  Mix well.

Apply icing to cupcakes once they are completely cool.  You can even use one of those fancy decorating thingy's and get something like this....



This is the finished product!
I actually made this!
Really, I did!

So, you'll probably wondering what this has to do with Thanksgiving and Thankfulness.  Today, I am thankful for trying new things and small miracles. 

30 Days of Thanksgiving: Days 13-15

Day 13
I am thankful for my job.  Last year at Thanksgiving, I was finding out that my employer was outsourcing our retail accounting department.  We were told MDI would take care of us and find us new jobs within the company.  Thirteen of us were placed among other departments, which ultimately separated a very tight-knit group of our coworkers.  I was so sad...at first.  However, I was moved into a new department and although I was at first concerned where I could fit in, now I can honestly say, I've never been happier working with a greater group of women/men in my entire 14 year career with MDI.  It's been an amazing transition for me, and I've learned so, so much which will open opportunities for me here (until I finish school, anyway).

Day 14
I am thankful that I have the support of my husband, family, and friends to finish pursuing my Middle Grades Education degree.  I have 5 classes remaining--which seems totally crazy to me--and I can't wait for God to allow me to stand in front of a group of students every day.  (I get a little giddy when I read that!)  It's my greatest desire that He will influence me and my lessons so that my students see Him.  It's a huge responsibility being an advocate for young students, but the Lord knows my heart and my intentions are to make a difference in students' lives as He made in my own life.  I'm thankful that I have a student's heart for learning.  I'm thankful that God has allowed me the resources to fund continuing in my education program. 

Day 15I am thankful for my co-workers who stepped up to the plate this year.  I can't delve many details, but I'll say that I know that I work with amazing people.  It was so exciting to be on the front lines of how one small seed was brought to complete fruition over the past few weeks.  I'm very thankful for their hearts and their willingness to participate.  And as always, when I asked God to do big things, He did abundantly more!

30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 10-12



30 Days of Thanksgiving

 30 Days of Thanksgiving continues...

Day 10
I am thankful that this little fellow right here is TWO...I am thankful for all of our family who came out to help celebrate his birthday.  I am thankful that the weather was stunning, and thankful we were able to move his party (at last minutes notice) to the park!  He had so much fun! 


Birthday Boy



Great-Grandparents

 


Sarabeth



Josef

(more pictures to come)



Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!

Happy Birthday to the US Marine Corp too!

Day 11

I am thankful for the veterans who serve this country here and abroad.  I am thankful for the sacrifices you have made to ensure my protection and freedom.  I am thankful for your willingness to watch your kids grow up in pictures as you serve overseas.  I am thankful for the courage you have to give all in order to protect and serve the land of the free.  I am also thankful for my family members who proudly call themselves veterans.

My Father In Law, former US Marine

(Not picturered are my late Grandparents:  Frank Miller Sr.,  Frank Miller Jr., and Otis Kennedy,)

Day 12

I'm thankful that my husband is able to enjoy a day off to rest (not that he will).  I'm thankful that he has a stable job and works so hard for our family.  I'm thankful that he is allowed time off to be with his family.  I'm also thankful that today is my Mother In Law's birthday!  Happy Birthday MJ!  We love you!



30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 9

Today I am thankful that my Mother in Love has finished her radiation treatments! She was recently diagnosed with the early stages of breast cancer.  Praise God that she was able to have radiation and a lumpectomy.  She is now in remission and a survivor!  No more radiation!  Yay!  It's a great day!

Maw Maw holding Kohen after his birth

30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 6-8

Day 6

I am thankful for the ability to build my character as I handle some of life's disappointments.  I was obviously way too emotionally involved in the election this year.  To echo what my pastor said so well, "We have strayed so far from God."  However, I am thankful that it's times of disappointments that God chooses to build our character (and reveal it to others!).  We've always been told that our actions speak louder than words, or at least I've always been told that.  When you are dealing with "life stuff," I think our actions speaking even louder.  I'm thankful that the election is over, and I know it didn't catch the Lord by surprise that the outcome wasn't what I hoped it would be.  Nevertheless, He is still in control.

My Mom

Day 7

I am thankful for my mom who takes care of my boys while I work.  How she handles the two of them day in and day out is beyond what I could ever imagine I am capable of handling. 

To add to the mix, she also keeps my niece Sarabeth...3 kids under 4...crazy!  I would be completely drained by the end of the day.  She is made to love on her grandkids.  I am so thankful that I can work and know that someone who cares as much for them as I do is taking care of them.  She kisses the boo boos.  She teaches them silly songs.  She's the best Nanny (hands down!) a kid could ever want.  I love you mom!  Thank you for all you do for us.

Sarabeth, Kohen, Kade, Josef, & Kenleigh

Day 8
I am thankful for my sister who has given me 2 sweet nieces and one handsome nephew to love on!  I am thankful that we get along better as adults and we seldom occasionally drive each other crazy.  (I think that means we are more alike than we are different now.)  I am thankful that she spoils my kids and takes all of my "worried mommy" phone calls about bumps, bruises, rashes, etc.  I am thankful that she fills in for my mom so I don't have to miss time from work as her schedule accommodates.  I am thankful she's my sister and for the way she has always encouraged me to do my best.  I love you too, Leigh Ann.  Thank you for being an AWESOME Aunt and sister.

Leigh Ann & Sarabeth

30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 2-5

Wow, I'm already behind! It's November 5th already?!? Does that seem crazy to anyone else? So, I'm playing "catch up" today....

Day 2

I am thankful for my husband who loves me so well.  He works so hard for our family, and he continually makes us feel important by going above the call of duty for husband and father.  We celebrated our 9th anniversary this year, and I can only imagine how much sweeter my life will be as his wife in the upcoming years.  I love you Kyle.  Thank you for being the best husband a wife could want and best daddy a kid could ask for!

Day 3 & 4
I am thankful for my sweet miracle boys!  I am completely humbled that the kids I cried for now cry for me.  I am so blessed to be your mommy!  I can't imagine my life without either of you!  You make me laugh daily by the quirky things you say and do.  You melt my heart when you say you love me.  You have taught me so much about how precious life can be.  You give me "purpose" to always do my best for my family.  I love you both to the moon and back!

Day 5

I am thankful for my church.  I am thankful that you can feel peace as soon as you enter its doors.  I am thankful for my pastors who preach God's word and who have taught me so much about the Lord and being a Christian.  I am thankful for the Women of Grace who lift each other up in prayer and help edify each other.  I am thankful for the Lord's presences when He sweeps in our church services, and I am thankful for our pastors' obedience to follow His lead.  I am so thankful for all of the people in our church who spoil my kids--Ms. Debbie, Granny Jo, Ms. Yvonne, Ms. Marie, and so many others.  I am very thankful that the Lord led me back to WGBC in 2006...

30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 1



30 Days of Thanksgiving

Happy November 1st!  Its the season of Thankfulness, home cooking, and holiday shopping!  It's my most favorite time of year.  So many people do the 30 days of Thanksgiving to note what they are thankful for.  I love reading about the things which people find gratifying.  I also found this fun little article that you can use at home with your family.  It's dates are wrong (as its a few years old), but I assure you the content is very relevant.

Anyway, for the next 30 day's I'm going to be saturating my little blog space with things for which I am thankful.  Want to play?  Jump right in!

Day 1

Above all else, I am so deeply grateful for the love of a Risen Lord and Savior who makes me want to be a better person.  My life was once chaos and filled with sin.  I was lost and traveling on the super highway strait to the pits of Hell.  The Lord swept right in and gave me new life, forgave me of my sins, and set my feet upon solid ground--walking day by day with him.  

I recently read this verse and fell in love with it.

"Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand."  Psalm 73:23

Thank you Lord for holding me by my right hand throughout my journey of life so far.