Nique's Life

Day 8 of 90: Rules, Rules, and more Rules

2012-02-06T21:06:00.001-07:00

Leviticus is all about rules. Rules that seem quite ridiculous in our "modern time". But they were quite necessary back then to help prevent the spread of disease.

We have rules now too, different rules. They are important rules. And we still need to obey them.

Back on track?

2012-02-06T12:18:00.002-07:00

So one of my topics this last week for Bible in 90 Days was Excuses. Well, I've had too many excuses for the last couple of months. I am supposed to guide ~L and ~C in their Pathfinder work, as well as doing my own. But what have a REALLY been doing? Being lazy and finding excuses. Let's follow the excuses I have used, whether just in my head or said out loud.

-They aren't putting in any effort, so why should I?
-I haven't got the time, with all the extra work I am doing.
-I just started this new job, I need to concentrate on it.
-I'm tired from this new job.
-I just switched to graveyards, I am so mixed up now, I can't worry about Pathfinders.
-I feel no support from the club.

Okay, there is always a grain of truth to an excuse. But I let the excuses get in the way. Now it's February and we are all so far behind.

I sat down with the books yesterday and some Post-It tabbies. I did this last year too. Instead of giving them specific assignments to complete at a specific time, I give them the entire book, with the things that need to be done tabbed. As they finish the assignments, the move the tabs from the side of the book to the top so I can look over the assignment and sign off on it. To help us all complete this task in the time frame it needs to be done, BFF has told them they must complete at least an hour of Pathfinder work every day. I am hoping we can get this all done!

These kids are awesome though!! ~L got all his work done last year in just a matter of weeks. And the newer curriculum is really great for allowing more creative methods of completing the work.

Now, to get my own work done!

Day 7 of 90: A society of instant gratification

2012-02-05T23:10:00.002-07:00

Exodus 32:1

¹ When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods[a] who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.”

He took too long, in their opinion. They didn't want to wait, it would require patience, and they wanted instant results. They wanted it now, not in a few hours, days, weeks, months, or even years. NOW. Why should they have to wait???

Oh, I meant Moses and the Israelites. Though the description does seem to model what our current society has become. I'm guilty of it too. When I decide I want something it IS hard to wait. I am trying to teach myself to be more patient. I want a new car, it can wait. It'd be nice to have a new car NOW. My car is almost 8 years old. But ya know what, it's in fairly good condition right now. It needs a couple minor repairs, and given that it's paid off, there are days when I WANT to just trade it in and have something new and shiny. But I do not NEED it. I really enjoy NOT having a car payment, and I NEED to save up and have a down payment, it will keep my monthly payment lower.

The "instant gratification society" is NOT new, it's been around for a VERY long time. We are simply repeating history.

Day 6 of 90: Remember...

2012-02-04T10:48:00.001-07:00

Exodus 20:8

⁸ “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.

This is always one of the most important verses to me. All the other commandments begin with "you shall" or "you shalt not." The fourth commandment though is different. God sets it apart by starting it differently, just as he set apart the Sabbath itself. God meant for Sabbath to be special.

It bothers me when people say the Sabbath isn't important or was done away with when Jesus died. So if that is the case, did the other commandments? Do you believe it's okay to kill? To steal? No? Then why do people believe the Sabbath was done away with? It wasn't.

And it's not "just a day." God is quite clear at NUMEROUS places in the Bible that the Sabbath is the seventh day. We need to respect ALL of God's commandments. Not pick and choose. This means the Sabbath too.

Remember...

Day 5 of 90: Excuses, Excuses, Excuses

2012-02-03T20:48:00.000-07:00

Exodus 4:10

¹⁰ Moses said to the LORD, “O Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.”

Moses seemed to be full of excuses. I can't because... I'm not able to because...
Even while God is telling him, I will work through you, I will give you the abilities.

I frequently, unfortunately, find myself with excuses for not doing something. I realize that when I do that, I am no different than Moses was. I look for excuses, instead of trusting God to lead me.

Day 4 of 90: Don't Be Afraid, God Knew What He Was Doing.

2012-02-02T21:55:00.000-07:00

Genesis 50:19-21

¹⁹ But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? ²⁰ You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. ²¹ So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

God caused Joseph's brothers to sell him to those who would send him to Egypt. But through that, God enabled Joseph to save his own family. They were afraid once they knew who he was. But they didn't need to be, God knew exactly what he was doing.

When I am afraid, I try to remember not to be, God knows what he is doing. :)

Day 3 of 90: Am I Expendable?

2012-02-01T21:36:00.001-07:00

Genesis 37:26-28

²⁶ Judah said to his brothers, “What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? ²⁷ Come, let’s sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood.” His brothers agreed.

²⁸ So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels[a] of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.

Am I expendable to the people around me, like Joseph was to his brother? Am I putting off a personality and attitude that makes people want to have me out of their lives?

Or am I a person people want around them? The personality, and attitude people WANT. I strive to be THIS person. Then again who doesn't? Who wants to be disliked?

Sometimes we have to choose to uphold our values, and that may make me disliked. But we should never compromise our values just to be liked.

I hope I am NOT expendable, but I will not compromise my values.

Day 2 of 90: Is Anything too hard for the Lord?

2012-01-31T18:19:00.002-07:00

Genesis 18:14

It's easy to doubt the Lord when you feel like the world is kicking you down. I've had those days, where I was falling apart, and it was hard to believe that anything was going to go right. But then I remember this verse. Where God himself is asking basically why did they doubt Him. He is the Creator. Of COURSE he can give Abraham and Sarah a child after all this time. And of course he can lift me up from my little pity party of despair. I just have to listen to him, and TRUST in him.

Day 1 of 90: The Greatest Fairytale

2012-01-30T16:40:00.004-07:00

Genesis 1:1 "In the Beginning..."

All great fairytales begin with something akin to "Once Upon a Time." But The Greatest Fairytale of all time begins with "In the Beginning." And how fitting. After all, nothing existed prior to that. Gods word just doesn't seem to fit with "Once Upon a Time."

And the Bible IS a great Fairytale. Think about it. Kings, Queens, wars, overcoming great odds... It's all there. And we all get the prince in the end. The love that Jesus sacrifice gave us, eternal life.

Sometimes it's easy to get caught up, or bogged down, in the minutiae of the Bible. We need to keep in mind that it is God's words, God's wisdom, and God's STORY. A story for us to enjoy, learn from, and live.

Update on me

2012-01-29T15:18:00.002-07:00

K, I've been a way for a while. Life. So here's quick update on me.

July-moved here

August-tried to get a job, interviewed and made it final 3 for a great job. Did NOT get the job. Took a phlebotomy course (thanks mom) to help me find a good job.

September-finally sucked it up and got a retail job. Some money is better than no money. Found another source of income, totally legal. :D Just email if you want info. Offered to be the Earliteen/Youth Sabbath School teacher at church. Pathfinders got going.

October-Continued working retail but putting in applications for better jobs. Started teaching my Sabbath school class, felt to be at a bit of a loss, low attendance, low participation.

November-continued working retail, gave up applying for jobs. But got an email from phlebotomy school about possible opportunity. I submitted a resume. I was called the next day to interview. Turned out to be an opportunity through a temp agency, but ya know what, the company I'd be working at is an AWESOME company and the likelihood was I'd be hired in the long run. Began the training near Thanksgiving. Suddenly having a full time job was a bit of a shock.

December-Ended up quitting retail job altogether (had been only working one day a week, but even that proved to be too much). Trained at new job until the week of Christmas. Passed practical and both written tests. I began my shift, on graveyards, the week after Christmas.

January-Still working hard. Was told last week that I will be hired in another 2-3 weeks!!!! Can't wait to have the other benefits that employees of the company have. :D Insurance, quarterly bonuses, tuition reimbursment, etc. :D Found a groove in Sabbath school, and my attendance at class is now steadily between 6-9 kids!!!! :D

February-stay tuned!! Now that I am settling into my schedule at work, I should have more time to blog again!

It's that time again!!

2012-01-29T12:54:00.003-07:00

Bible in 90 Days!!! WOOO!!!

Starting tomorrow I will be embarking on reading the Bible in 90 days. I'm doing WHAT?? I'm sure you are asking. Don't worry, when I first heard of the idea, I thought it was nuts too! LOL But then I set myself the challenge of doing it!

My first attempt, "Spring" of 2010, I started strong, then life got in my way. MANY people encouraged me to keep going. I let stress get to me, I feel INSANELY behind, but never fully gave up. I'm too darn stubborn for that. :) Now, why did I get so far behind? In a nutshell, I didn't keep God first. Yes, I found out in this time frame that my daughter needed major brain surgery. Yes, during this time she HAD the surgery. And I let my Bible, essentially, not literally, sit on a shelf. I will say, even despite that, I did keep trying to read. By the time the group finished, I was half way through. By sometime in April, I started hearing rumors of the group going again. By the start of May, I KNEW another group was starting in July, and I decided to stop all together, give myself a break from all the hard core reading I was doing, and be ready for July. I felt a little bad about quitting, but overall, I felt better about giving this another stronger start, versus a tired worn out start and finish.

July rolled around, and this time, I felt ready. And I had few stumbling blocks. I am human though. I fell as far behind as 2 full weeks at one point. But this time I pushed through and caught up. I FINISHED this time. It took me a total of 99 days from "In the beginning" to "Amen." I blogged my way through most of it. You can go back and read them. :)

Sometime in the spring of 2011, I approached my pastor about doing a B90 group at the church. He seemed VERY interested. I advertised for it, we started, we were trying to have the weekly meetings. And it ended up basically falling apart. I started with 17 people, our first meeting the first week of the readings, only 3 people came. :( I kept trying, had brief follow up meetings at church for people who couldn't attend. Gradually though, the group just fell apart. There were activities being held on the same nights as my meetings, and people had to choose. I know 2-3 people actually FINISHED the reading however. An incredible accomplishment for not having the same support.

Lesson I learned from that? I am NOT yet ready to run the group.

HOWEVER, I am ready to read! So starting tomorrow, Monday, January 30th, I am beginning again. My nephew is joining me. At 12 years old, he can read circles around me! And he understands the Bible in a way that is downright crazy!

Right now, my heart is bursting with joy for this kid! Yesterday we sat down to start doing the same Bible chain marking I am doing with my Sabbath school class (13-17 year olds. He is able to join my class in another 6 months, this way he will have already completed the same work as them, I know, maybe a little unfair, but that's the benefit of living with the teacher!). We were looking for a place to put the "Table of Contents" and I discovered the binding of his Bible was falling apart. Yeah, he has read his Bible so much that it is falling apart. So we told him to get his other Bible, and he told us it's missing the entire book of 2 Peter, and some of 1 Peter, because he's worn that one out too. BFF and I ran out quick to get him a new Bible. :D I spoiled him a little though. We didn't just get the Bible. I got him a Bible bag, a new ruler with the books of the Bible on it, and a couple of gel highlighters to use in his Bible. :D

So anyway, he is joining me in reading. And at least one, if not 2 of my Sabbath school girls is joining me. :D

I'm going to try to blog this one too. But I am not in the mood to use the SOAP method that I used last time. I am looking at some other methods.

So maybe, just maybe, you've read this far and you too are interested in reading too. Where do you go??? How do I get started???

Well here's the website I am reading through this time: Oh That Mom Again. What do you need? An NIV Bible and an hour or so a day. You do not NEED to blog or journal or anything. A lot of us do simply to solidify our ready. DO NOT study it, DO NOT look up footnotes, or references. JUST READ. At Oh That Mom Again, she has listed the daily readings for the first week, as well as a link to the full list. So just follow along there, the only thing she is asking from us is a weekly check in on Monday's.

Will you join me? If not this time, maybe next time!

Gee Whiz it's been a while!

2012-01-02T01:52:00.001-07:00

Okay, So it has been a while

Pathfinders, Honors, Geocaching... OH MY

2011-09-18T18:13:00.002-06:00

Well, it is that time of the year again!! Pathfinders!!!! :D We are doing the classwork at home and the boys have amassed a HEFTY list of honors THEY want to do, in addition to the ones they HAVE to do! LOL And in addition to the honors they will earn at Pathfinders Club. Wow.

This past week we finished up the Nutrition Honor. Today C and I did the Geocaching Honor. I already have it, but he didn't yet and him and L wanna do the advanced honor so first I had to get him the basic honor. We had to go find some geocaches though. He had found some back in Massachusetts, but I wanted him to do some today just to cover the bases. We attempted 4, found 2. :D I SO LOVE Geocaching!!!

I ordered the foreign coins for the Currency (Coins) Honor. So when they arrive we can get started.

This week we are supposed to be doing the Heart & Circulation Honor and the Cultural Diversity Honor. We will see what we get done.

Postcrossing: Sent 6

2011-08-21T21:01:00.002-06:00

Hooked back up with Postcrossing and today I am sending off 6 postcards. 5 to Russia and 1 to Germany. Hope they all get there fast!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-08-21T19:00:00.002-06:00

Taken from: The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY: August 21, 2011

Outside my window...
Another very warm day and beautiful mountains.

I am thinking...
I am hungry, and I don't understand.

I am thankful...
To have people in my life who love me and care about me.

In the kitchen...
Hmmmm.... Ice Cream, I think BT is making chicken of some sort for dinner.

I am wearing...
Brown Capris, and a peach shirt

I am creating...
Nothing at the moment, but I want to bust open all my yarn boxes and make a Funky Chunky Blanket.

I am going...
nowhere, and I'm happy about it.

I am wondering...
How I got so blessed to have such wonderful children, not just my own but the others around me. I love them all!

I am reading...
When the Soul Mends, by Cindy Woodsmall

I am hoping...
To have a quiet evening.

I am looking forward to...
The next Saints Game

I am hearing...
The Swamp Cooler and the girls

Around the house...
BFF is sleeping, BT is cooking, Kids are playing, watching TV, or sleeping, and I'm in the office blogging then reading

I am pondering...
The next book

One of my favorite things...
peace (the other is quiet!)

A few plans for the rest of the week:
Finish up Phlebotomy class, keep looking for work, organize my room better.

Still plugging along

2011-08-18T20:47:00.002-06:00

I'm still here!! I've been looking for a job, been on several interviews. I am enjoying the free time, and being with my kidlets. I've been reading a lot too! Hopefully soon I can get back to blogging more.

I officially declare:

2011-07-31T20:36:00.004-06:00

I HATE MOVING.

We've been here since the 12th. Got into the house on the 20th. And we are STILL moving everything out of storage, and living with boxes all around. BUT... There's only 4 pieces of furniture left in the storage unit!!! And a lot of boxes. :)

I had to leave my job, that I LOVED, to move here. No regrets, I LOVE living here!! But, I have no job yet! I have put out close to 40 applications. Been turned down already for 4 jobs. That's okay. :) I WILL find a job.

I am starting a phlebotomist training course tomorrow night. In 4 weeks I will be able to sit for the national certification test, a necessary step before seeking employment as a phlebotomist. I am hoping to be able to start applying for phlebotomist positions within 6 weeks. :)

And then I am planning to take the CNA course (Certified Nurse's Assistant) and it's cooresponding national certification test as well. Maybe in 6-12 months. I'm not in a huge rush to take it, for me, it's not for employment, but to be able to apply to the RN program.

Speaking of which, I need to go do my car's emissions test this week so I can register it, and also get my driver's license here in Utah. Also on the list is getting my library card. All are steps towards proving my Utah residency. I'm HOPING to be able to get in-state tuition in the spring, but it may have to be summer. Then I can apply to Weber State University and start taking the pre-req's for the RN program. Especially all those pesky Science and Math classes. I have a history of "difficulty" with Anatomy and Physiology. A history of failing it!!! LOL But that was close to ten years ago, so let's hope I have a better shot at it now!

I'm BACK!!

2011-07-27T12:23:00.003-06:00

I'm pllanning to get back into the swing of things now that we are a LITTLE settled here in our new home. We still have a TON (actually, probably several tons) of our furniture and belongings in storage. But slowly but surely it's coming together. :)

I'm enjoying our new area, and I'm VERY busy job hunting. I put in 17 applications yesterday alone!!! More job hunting on the list for today too!

Let me know if there is something specific you'd like me to blog about!! :) Otherwise, my wild and crazy mind has to come up with it all!

we have arrived

2011-07-13T18:31:00.001-06:00

So I climbed mountain ranges, crossed the Mississippi river, driven approximately 2,400 miles, but I am HOME in Utah!

moving too soon

2011-07-05T06:27:00.002-06:00

Quick note to my readers: this is it, most of my life is on that truck or one of the trailers. I doubt I'll be able to blog much about our trip while on the road. Look for an awesome blog in a week or so!! :)

Never underestimate

2011-07-03T15:55:00.002-06:00

Nothing is impossible, and NEVER, EVER underestimate the power of a few motivated people!!! Because today I watched a 26 foot moving truck go from EMPTY to full in just under 5 hours. And watch a large majority of the contents of my home go out one of four doors to get to that point!

Sadly, we are NOT done. Tomorrow we get the trailer, and we HOPEFULLY finish up this bad boy. If you live in the local area, watch my facebook for curb alerts for the items we are NOT keeping! :)

THANK YOU to my awesome church family for all your help: Pastor Van, Albertine, Abraham, Micheal, Reggie, Josiah, Kim, Andrew, Lonre, and Nelson. Also thank you to Kathy who volunteered to watch the kids for us, we just never got the chance to get there!! :)

Also THANK YOU to my friends who came, or tried to come: Katherine (who was here til LATE last night boxing up with us), Henry, Chrissy (girl, I know ya tried), and Carey (I know you'll help tomorrow!).

And of course, my family: Brian, Dez, L, C, and R, you ALL busted backside today!! And A, B, E, and S, for trying so hard!!! Little boxes have to be carried too, and sometimes YOUR logic is better than mine!!

Moving is not for the weak

2011-07-02T06:25:00.002-06:00

I should know by now that moving is NOT for the weak. After all, in the last 6 years, I've moved 6 times, and this will be my 7th. Though I've had the luxury of having movers for 2 of those moves and 3 were only local moves. But still, you'd think I'd know better after all of that. Yet here I sit, less than 24 hours from picking up the moving truck, and we are SO not ready. I am starting to get VERY concerned. I know, end of it all, we will have all of our belongings on that truck, in boxes. But still.

Moving is just NOT for the weak. Not the weak of mind. Not for the weak of heart. And CERTAINLY not for the weak of body!

The end of the "era"

2011-06-30T21:11:00.002-06:00

Well ladies and gentlemen... THAT is all she wrote. I am done with my employment here in Massachusetts! I am also currently unemployed. Hopefully THAT won't last too long!!! :) They have been great for me. And I will really miss them. I thank my friends and co-workers who stopped by during the last hours (and minutes) of my shift to help me end it on a high note!! I wish everyone there the very best.

Look me up on facebook, and for those already on facebook, tell the others to find me. :)

Last Day at Work

2011-06-30T06:37:00.002-06:00

Tonight is my last night at work. :( I'm sad about leaving. I really like working there. I have worked there longer than anywhere.

I know I am leaving for all the right reasons. It's been a good ride, I have learned SO MUCH while I've been there. It has been a wonderful growing experience for me. I feel that I've become a better employee, more rounded and have so much more experience. They gave me supervisory experience, which I am completely grateful for. That opens a world of possibilities for me as I move forward.

And I have made fabulous friends there. Really, friends I love to invite over for cupcakes, friends who come and fight battles with Spark Plug 6 with me, and friends I am HAPPY to drive to go pick up to get them to work on time. :) I will miss them all, and I hope they have a chance to come visit me in Utah. :) And hopefully a little way down the road I will be able to come visit them again here in Massachusetts. :)

It's all filled out and ready to submit!

2011-06-29T17:22:00.001-06:00

Okay, so my job application is all filled out and I'm ready to submit. Please send up your prayers that God will open the right doors for me, and provide me with the right job, the right co-workers, and a bright employment future!!! :D

almost unemployed!

2011-06-29T10:41:00.001-06:00

I am sitting in Starbucks right now waiting. I finished work today. I have ONE shift left tomorrow before I am done here. And then I will enter a short phase of "unemployed". It's a little strange. I certainly wouldn't be unemployed right now for any other reason, but due to the lag time of moving, plus the uncertainty of where exactly we will be living, I put off applying for the new job until now. It's okay though.

I will apply today, and it is still 3 weeks until I can begin working. I will probably go ahead and apply to some other places as well, when we get out there. But I want to give this one application it's best chance.

Not so typical Tuesday...

2011-06-28T21:20:00.002-06:00

Bullet points of my day:
-wake up, breakfast
-pack boxes
-friend arrives to help
-pack a LOT of boxes
-make some lunch
-pack some more boxes
-take BFF to doctor's appointment
-Swing by tire place to set up appointments for both of our cars to get what they need done.
-go to grocery store to get stuff for dinner for kids
-make dinner for kids (and contemplate packing)
-head out for dinner out with adults I didn't want to say goodbye to
-come home, and remember that really, I need to pack more boxes... but it's late, and I have to have BFF's car at the tire place by 8 am, so NO. LOL

Worst part? There's still a TON of work to be done, loads to be packed. I'm at the "overwhelmed" stage now. I feel like it will never end, even though I know it's not true. :(

Monday madness

2011-06-27T05:36:00.004-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Yeah right, though I REALLY gotta get to one this week!!!

2. Currently Reading: Learning, by Karen Kingsbury

3. Where I went today: Autozone, Napa, Starbucks, Shaw's

4. Five coupons I used: zero

5. Hours I worked: 6

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 4 (It was a tough day)

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): brown (hides grease better!)

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: EXERT

9. Favorite song on iPod today: none

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: none

Too tired

2011-06-25T20:54:00.001-06:00

Too tired to do my day... Good night Bloggy world!!! :D

Happy Sabbath: the wet edition

2011-06-25T07:00:00.002-06:00

There are some days that you just cannot go. Today is raining. The forecast calls for thunderstorms today. It was a hard decision for our family to make, but we made the choice not to take all the kids out to camp meeting. We really wanted to go. Part of the problem, is that if we don't go to church at camp, there is no services locally.

So we will enjoy family worship at home.

My Day: Camp Meeting Friday

2011-06-24T18:48:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Wet, Wet, Wet... and too busy

2. Currently Reading: A Wedding Quilt for Ella (will probably finish tonight)

3. Where I went today: Camp Meeting, Shaw's, Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks

4. Five coupons I used: nope, none.

5. Hours I worked: 0

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: once!

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): White with navy stripes over a navy tank

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: uhhhhh, I think it was TAXI, Yesterday!!

9. Favorite song on iPod today: Haven't listened today

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: Haven't watched today

Busy Week Done: Happy Sabbath

2011-06-24T17:13:00.002-06:00

It's been a BUSY Camp Meeting Week. :) A LOT of driving, a LOT of walking, But OH SO WORTH it!!!! :D

Hearing the girls singing "Jesus love is a bubbling over" as we walked around today, that makes it worth it. :) Knowing that every afternoon the most important part for them was "when do we go back???" That is worth it!! :)

It is almost sundown, almost Sabbath. Tomorrow is the last day of Camp Meeting. Unfortunately, we may NOT be able to attend services at Camp Meeting. :( The forecast is calling for possible thunderstorms. The grounds there are already very muddy and mucky. And the idea of being outside in a thunderstorm is not very appealing. :( We will see.

Things heard at the dinner table

2011-06-23T17:06:00.002-06:00

R: (to all the girls) STOP
Me: R, watch how you say that.
R: but they were bothering me.
Me: R, they are 5, you were 5 once and you did the same things to your brothers.
R: NO I DID NOT!
C and L: YES YOU DID!

S: Mommy, R said I'm not good at the pizza game
Me: (to R) Don't play games at the dinner table please.
B: (standing on chair waving arm around as I walk in dining room) FIRST PLACE IN R!!!
(Apparently they had ranks in the game they weren't supposed to play)

S: Mommy, pizza makes my belly hurt.
Me: I'm sorry sweetie.
(not a minute later)
S: Mommy, can I have more pizza?

And my personal fave of the night:
R: S, STOP CHEWING IN MY FACE.
L: S, please chew with your mouth closed, like a princess.
S: (sits up high and proud, finishes chewing with mouth closed) Okay!!
and for the next few minutes ALL the girls ate like princesses!!! :)
GO L for thinking to tell S to eat like a princess!!! :)

Blogging from the iPod

2011-06-23T10:53:00.001-06:00

Just call me a punk. I downloaded a new app for my iPod that allows me to blog straight from the iPod. Cool. Had to test it. Lol. That is all!

Night out with friends

2011-06-22T21:29:00.004-06:00

Every now and then it is good to just get out with my good friends. Tonight BFF, Kmae, and I went out. We started out at Fugakyu to enjoy some WONDERFUL sushi!! mmmmmmm I ordered the smoked salmon sushi, an avocado roll and an Idaho Roll. Yum.

Then we moved on to Sweets Cupcakes in Worcester. We enjoyed a delicious desert and conversation, followed by ordering some cupcakes to go. :) I will certainly enjoy THAT tomorrow!!! :)

The best part for me is just the talking. I love talking with them. I love getting all caught up on what's going on with Kmae. And tonight she even told me that she's already planning her first trip to visit us when we "don't move" to Utah. LOL (we aren't moving according to Kmae. We are only putting every scrap of our belongings in a truck so we can clean the carpets in the house.)

It hammers it home a little more that we really are going. This wasn't a good-bye dinner, not by any stretch!!! It just makes me realize how much I will miss certain people. I never felt this way leaving California, and while I felt a good tug when I left Tennessee, I was hurting so badly, I NEEDED to get away. But this is SO different. I have some very close friends here.

Thank goodness this is the age we live in at least! I have the internet, facebook, email, and a healthy cell phone plan to keep in touch with. :)

I'll miss my friends here, yet I still look forward to the move, and making new close friends in Utah! :)

My Day: Camp Meeting Wednesday

2011-06-22T21:27:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Really, I need to

2. Currently Reading: A Wedding Quilt for Ella

3. Where I went today: Camp Meeting, Target, Fugakyu, Sweets

4. Five coupons I used: none

5. Hours I worked: 0

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 1

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): turquoise blue

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: Dunno

9. Favorite song on iPod today: None

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: Sleep

Rain, cows, and hot dogs: Camp Meeting Wednesday

2011-06-22T14:18:00.002-06:00

Bullet point day:
-go to camp meeting
-drop kids off
-go to ABC for snacks
-try to find a dry place to sit
-go to van to find dry place
-go to pick up girls, it is NOT really raining
-while waiting for girls rain starts and continues to get harder
-and harder
-and harder
-walk in pouring rain (no coats, no umbrellas) to bathroom
-walk in pouring rain to get boys
-walk in pouring rain to car
-drive to pick up friend
-throw girls toys to them
-miss getting cow to one girl
-pick up friend
-give girls go-gurts
-unknowingly lose cow
-drive friend to work
-try to find cow to give to girl, discover it is missing
-drive to Target to replace toy cow
-eat all beef hot dogs
-get toy panda as no cows are available
-drive home planning trip to laundromat
-rain comes on crazy hard
-have to drive around tree
-decide NOT to do laundromat due to weather
-relaxing at home waiting for friend to arrive.

Okay, so not relaxing, doing laundry, packing boxes, and otherwise creating mischief!

One Day Closer

2011-06-22T07:53:00.001-06:00

I read a facebook status last night, and it really made me think. The status was this:

"One day closer to digging my toes in the sand"

It was in reference to the poster's up coming trip to the beach. While I too enjoy a good countdown a thought went through my head. I'm ALWAYS one day closer to digging my toes in the sand, going to Europe again, seeing that friend I haven't seen in forever. I just don't know WHEN these things will happen. The "countdown" isn't defined for me, but I'm ALWAYS one day closer.

Heading back out?

2011-06-22T07:45:00.003-06:00

The ground is wet... Thanks mother nature.

One pair of shoes has mysteriously disappeared since 6 pm last night... Thanks black hole.

I have heartburn despite taking my meds... Thanks GERD.

One child has basically nothing to do today because his group is going on a field trip he is unable to go on... Thanks poor scheduling.

Despite it all, I am pretty sure we are heading out for Camp Meeting! It's just a great big adventure called life.

Today, I am one day closer to paying off my debt, seeing my friends I haven't seen, getting my new car, taking a trip to Disney, and going to Vegas. Even though I have NO clue when these things will happen!! :)

My Day: Camp Meeting Tuesday

2011-06-21T19:39:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Maybe tomorrow?

2. Currently Reading: A Wedding Quilt for Ella (LOVE it)

3. Where I went today: WalMart, Target, Camp Meeting, Gulf Station, Mc Donald's

4. Five coupons I used: Not a single one. :(

5. Hours I worked: ZERO!

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 1

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): Green (okay, I seem to have a LOT of green in my wardrobe, at least SUMMER wardrobe!)

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: FIST

9. Favorite song on iPod today: Listened to Taylor Swift again

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: Inspecting the backside of my eyelids for holes??? LOL

Fishies

2011-06-21T18:48:00.001-06:00

Today in the Kindergarten afternoon session the girls made the cutest little wooden fish. And when we picked them up from class they took great delight in naming them. Peanut has named hers Kathleen and Katherine (aren't you proud kmae?) and Bug had to choose between Bailey and Cody or Bailey and Brandon. (All my KK fans out there lol). Much to mommy's dismay, she went with Bailey and Cody. Such is life!

My Day: Camp Meeting Monday

2011-06-20T21:35:00.004-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Uhhh No.

2. Currently Reading: A Wedding Quilt for Ella

3. Where I went today: Shaw's, Camp Meeting, CVS, Walgreens

4. Five coupons I used: Hershey's Bliss, Venus Razor's, Arm & Hammer Deodorant, Register Rewards, Manager's Meat Coupons at Shaw's

5. Hours I worked: 0! On Vacation!

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 2

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): Grey

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: Haven't played today (need too!!!)

9. Favorite song on iPod today: none, but listened to a Taylor Swift CD while driving the Silver Bullet

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: None

Parenting Frustrations

2011-06-20T20:50:00.003-06:00

I love my kids and I happily bend over backwards for them. It's just that every once in a while, I like to know that my kids have their activity to do, and I can go to MY activity and we are all happy... Perfect world right???

Nope...

So you would think that a church event would think through to ensure that the parents could have some coverage for their kids so the PARENTS could attend some of the adult seminars.

Nope...

Well, I shouldn't say nope. You got coverage. If all your kids are over age 6. But if your kids are 5?

Nope...

So say I am a parent of a set of simply adorable 5 year old twins. And I want to attend a seminar in the morning? The one about healthy KIDS AND FAMILIES.

Nope...

Adult seminars start at 9:15 am and there's no class for those cute little 5 year olds until 10:30 am. (or any other kids for that matter). Guess I will just sleep in and arrive in time for the kids class. How about the first afternoon seminar? The one designed for couples? That'd be GREAT for the married PARENTS of young kids!

Nope...

ALL kids classes begin at 3:30 pm and that seminar starts at 2:00 pm. Okay, okay. MAYBE the parents can attend the seminars that are AT 3:30 then... ALL the kids have classes AT 3:30... ooooooooo... I see a LIGHT at the end of this tunnel.

Oh, but wait... Those precious 5 year olds? Their class is only an hour. So someone has to be there to get them at 4:30, and the adult seminar is scheduled to run til 5:00.

Well... so I'll have to miss part of it. And maybe I can convince the 5 year olds to be quiet (give them food?) so I can go back and catch the last 15 minutes.

Nope...

Adult seminar doesn't really get going til 4:15, and they tell us it's going to run til 5:15. And we go to pick up the 5 year olds and they have been WAITING for us, when we arrive at 4:25.

*sigh*

I guess, it just wasn't meant to be. I hope these novels are good!! :)

Camp Meeting

2011-06-20T10:50:00.001-06:00

This week is camp meeting, I am so excited! :) I am looking forward to the afternoon session which is the ONE adult session I can go to!! LOL

home for lunch!!

Franconian Notch

2011-06-20T06:41:00.002-06:00

Yesterday we took a NICE drive up to Franconian Notch, NH. It's the site where the Old Man on the Mountain USED to be until nature ran it's course back in 2003 and the man fell down. :( The area is still incredibly beautiful. I was in heaven up there. :) It was so lush and pleasant. :) Ahhh... And BFF tells me this is what it will be like when we move too :) yay!

I had planned to hit one of the two nearby geocaches, but time ran away from us, and by the time we attempted to locate them, it was getting dark and too difficult. It would have been nice, especially to leave the travel bug I have there, but it's okay! :)

So I was busy yesterday

2011-06-18T05:15:00.003-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Too wet and Busy

2. Currently Reading: A Wedding Quilt for ella

3. Where I went today: Pat's house, Dunkin Donuts, the Mall, Shaw's, Target

4. Five coupons I used: Kayem Hot Dogs, Dove Deodorant, Coffee Creamer (that's it)

5. Hours I worked: 0 (I'm on vacation, yes, just before I move!)

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: only 2 times!

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): green

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: TIDES

9. Favorite song on iPod today: Let's not discuss that I have NOT been listening to the iPod!

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: We didn't have time!

Today is a good day

2011-06-16T21:12:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: LOL, not when you get called in early

2. Currently Reading: A Wedding quilt for Ella

3. Where I went today: Five Guys, Staples, work

4. Five coupons I used: $3 off anything (LOVE), Breakfast on the go, Honest Tea, Deitz and Watson, Chex Mix

5. Hours I worked: 6.5 (UGH)

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 3

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): green

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: I so don't know!!! LOL

9. Favorite song on iPod today: Again, I need to listen to it!! LOL

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: No movie, watching Army Wives though :)

Another post about the day before!

2011-06-16T06:04:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: WAY too busy to even contemplate it, hoping to squeeze in a piggy today though

2. Currently Reading: A Wedding quilt for Ella

3. Where I went today: Work, Recital rehersal, Papa Gino's, Honeydew, Shaw's, CVS,

4. Five coupons I used: Breakfast on the go, lysol, chex cereal, pillsbury crescent rolls, nature valley granola bars, wacky mac cereal, Mrs. T's Pierogi's, Pepsi, Dove Chocolate (okay, that was more than five!)

5. Hours I worked: 5

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 3

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): pink nantucket tee over white tank

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: FOAL

9. Favorite song on iPod today: Seriously, I gotta replace my iPod cord so I CAN listen to my iPod again

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: no movies, we watched the Bruins win the Stanley Cup GO BRUINS!!!!!

Yesterday LOL

2011-06-15T06:10:00.003-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: None today, too busy

2. Currently Reading: A wedding quilt for Ella

3. Where I went today: Took BFF to an appointment (reading time!!), Barnes and Noble, Friday's for girls night out, work, Walgreens

4. Five coupons I used: really none, but we did use the Stripes card at Fridays

5. Hours I worked: 5.5

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 3

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): purple

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: ASSET

9. Favorite song on iPod today: Seriously, I should listen to my iPod more, but my fave song on the soundtrack at work was pocket full of sunshine.

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: none today, too busy. :)

normal day

2011-06-13T20:16:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Didn't do one today

2. Currently Reading: A Wedding Quilt for Ella

3. Where I went today: D'Angeloes

4. Five coupons I used: only one... $2 off a medium sandwich at D'Angeloes

5. Hours I worked: 6

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 2

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): pink see through Nantucket tee over a white tank

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: RIDE

9. Favorite song on iPod today: didn't listen

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: Go with it

Long day

2011-06-12T22:59:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day:Robin Hill Cemetery, traded TB's

2. Currently Reading: no reading today

3. Where I went today: Shaw's, CVS, Walgreens, Dollar Tree, Hannafords, Panera, Robin Hill Cemetery

4. Five coupons I used: Osteo Bi-Flex, Dove chocolate, OB tampons, Mitchum deodorant, Extra Care Bucks

5. Hours I worked: 5

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 1

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): teal green

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: don't remember

9. Favorite song on iPod today: didn't listen

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: wanna finish watching Fast and Furious

My Day: Happy Sabbath

2011-06-11T19:17:00.001-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: I haven't done one in a full two weeks, how sad :(

2. Currently Reading: Plain Proposal

3. Where I went today: church

4. Five coupons I used: none

5. Hours I worked: none

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 1

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): dress: black with blue flowers

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: haven't played today

9. Favorite song on iPod today: didn't listen today

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: none

Today

2011-06-09T23:02:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Yet again, none... stupid weather. I am TIRED of thunderstorms

2. Currently Reading: didn't get a chance to read today

3. Where I went today: work, dollar tree, honeydew, twin club year end dinner

4. Five coupons I used: $1/2 Honest Teas (x6), $1/1 Medical Tape (x2), $1/1 guaze pads, Buy 3 participating products get first aid kit free

5. Hours I worked: 5

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 2

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): green

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: didn't play today

9. Favorite song on iPod today: didn't listen today

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: none

My Day

2011-06-08T20:40:00.003-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: Another day with none :( :( :(

2. Currently Reading: Finished up "Leaving" today, staring "Plain Proposal" by Beth Wiseman when I get off the computer

3. Where I went today: drove BFF to the YMCA to drop something off, BJ's to pick up some food, the grocery store (but I stayed in the car with sleeping kiddos), work

4. Five coupons I used: none

5. Hours I worked: 4

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: twice, both during work, sad huh?

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): white tank top

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: MU/UN

9. Favorite song on iPod today: didn't listen

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: Not really interested in watching a movie right now.

Today...

2011-06-07T22:13:00.002-06:00

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: none, again, but I was SUPER close to the Piggies

2. Currently Reading: Ummm... Yeah, about that...

3. Where I went today: work, The ER, Welcome Indian Restaurant, Barnes and Noble, Old Navy

4. Five coupons I used: NONE... didn't go shopping! Well... unless you could the emergency-never-really-went-home-shirt

5. Hours I worked: 6

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: 3

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): navy tank top with a white and navy striped shirt over

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: OPEN

9. Favorite song on iPod today: didn't listen to any

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: want to see Go With It

Been a while...

2011-06-06T20:35:00.002-06:00

Okay, so I know it's been a while since I really blogged much, but I think I need to get back to it. :)

I am going to try to stick regularly to a modified version of the "daybook" idea. It's ten questions that apply to me more than the others did. So here goes...

My Day

1. Geocache of the Day: None, hopefully tomorrow!

2. Currently Reading: Leaving, by Karen Kingsbury

3. Where I went today: Shaw's, Hannafords, Barnes and Noble, Honeydew

4. Five coupons I used: Sara Lee, French's Mustard, Bush's Baked Beans, Shaw's Potatoes x 2

5. Hours I worked: none, day off

6. How many times I went to Starbucks: twice

7. What color shirt I wore today (not to work): purple

8. Last word played on Words with Friends: LIE

9. Favorite song on iPod today: Rascall Flatts "Stand"

10. Movie I watched or want to watch today: The Roommate

New Hobby!

2011-05-23T09:41:00.001-06:00

I have a new Hobby!!! :) Geocaching!!!! :) I have found 4 caches so far :) Will post more later!

I'm thinking....

2011-04-28T10:26:00.001-06:00

It may be time for ANOTHER blog...

Just maybe. I'm getting into couponing and saving as much money as possible. I want a single solid place to tell everyone all about it. My successes, my failures. The deals I find. Yet I don't wanna give up my happy little blogging corner over here either. So it just may be time to get a special new blog place. :)

I'll have to think on this.

Books on tap: April 21, 2011

2011-04-21T08:11:00.001-06:00

Now Reading:
Inconceivable, by Carolyn and Sean Savage

Next Books:
Leaving: The Bailey Flanigan Series Book 1, by Karen Kingsbury
Plain Proposal, by Beth Wiseman
A Wedding Quilt for Ella: Little Valley Series 1, by Jerry S. Eicher
The Choice: Lancaster County Secrets 1, by Suzanne Woods Fisher
The Amish Midwife: The Women of Lancaster County, by Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould
When the Heart Cries: Sisters of the Quilt, Book 1, by Cindy Woodsmall

Books on tap, April 2, 2011

2011-04-02T18:09:00.000-06:00

Now Reading:
The Revelation: Abram's Daughters 5, by Beverly Lewis
The Holy Bible: New International Version (this is the Bible in 90 Days Challenge)

Next Books:
Inconceivable
Leaving: The Bailey Flanigan Series Book 1, by Karen Kingsbury (BRAND NEW RELEASED TODAY!!!!)
A Wedding Quilt for Ella: Little Valley Series 1, by Jerry S. Eicher
The Choice: Lancaster County Secrets 1, by Suzanne Woods Fisher
The Amish Midwife: The Women of Lancaster County, by Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould
When the Heart Cries: Sisters of the Quilt, Book 1, by Cindy Woodsmall

Books on tap, March 22, 2011

2011-03-22T21:18:00.002-06:00

I have been remiss in my blogging PERIOD lately, including my books on tap lately... so here we go:

Now Reading:
Three Cups of Tea, by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin
The Holy Bible: New International Version (this is the Bible in 90 Days Challenge)

Next Books:
The Revelation: Abram's Daughters 5, by Beverly Lewis
Leaving: The Bailey Flanigan Series Book 1, by Karen Kingsbury (BRAND NEW RELEASED TODAY!!!!)
Inconceivable
A Wedding Quilt for Ella: Little Valley Series 1, by Jerry S. Eicher
The Choice: Lancaster County Secrets 1, by Suzanne Woods Fisher
The Amish Midwife: The Women of Lancaster County, by Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould
When the Heart Cries: Sisters of the Quilt, Book 1, by Cindy Woodsmall

Books on tap, March 7, 2011

2011-03-07T19:24:00.001-07:00

Now Reading:
Mennonite in a Little Black Dress
The Holy Bible: New International Version (this is the Bible in 90 Days Challenge)

Next Books:
The Prodigal: Abram's Daughters 4, by Beverly Lewis
The Revelation: Abram's Daughters 5, by Beverly Lewis
Three Cups of Tea
A Wedding Quilt for Ella: Little Valley Series 1, by Jerry S. Eicher
The Choice: Lancaster County Secrets 1, by Suzanne Woods Fisher
The Amish Midwife: The Women of Lancaster County, by Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould
When the Heart Cries: Sisters of the Quilt, Book 1, by Cindy Woodsmall

Books on tap...

2011-02-21T19:39:00.002-07:00

Now Reading:
The Sacrifice: Abram's Daughters 3, by Beverly Lewis
The Holy Bible: New International Version (this is the Bible in 90 Days Challenge)

Next Books:
The Prodigal: Abram's Daughters 4, by Beverly Lewis
The Revelation: Abram's Daughters 5, by Beverly Lewis
Seek Me With All Your Heart: Settler's of Cannan 1, by Beth Wiseman
Mennonite in a Little Black Dress
A Wedding Quilt for Ella: Little Valley Series 1, by Jerry S. Eicher
The Choice: Lancaster County Secrets 1, by Suzanne Woods Fisher
The Amish Midwife: The Women of Lancaster County, by Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould
When the Heart Cries: Sisters of the Quilt, Book 1, by Cindy Woodsmall

Reading derailed!

2011-02-21T19:35:00.002-07:00

Way to make me cranky: Make it hard for me to READ...

Okay, really, I'm overreacting... But here's my dilemma...

I am leading out our Bible in 90 Days Challenge. And I TOTALLY welcome the opportunity to read the Bible cover-to-cover, every single word, in those 90 Days. I just miss the pleasure reading it takes the place of! :(

I have 5 books checked out from the library right now, and I can't hardly read more than a chapter in one of them. :( I have FOUR brand new books I got using a gift card from Christmas. So in all, I have 8 unread books, and one in Progress, besides the Bible.

What am I to do?

Bible and books

2011-02-17T22:35:00.002-07:00

Well, here I am, Day 3 and already behind. I am telling myself it's okay, I've been busy, but I KNOW that as the leader of this, I need to set a better example. I need to get at least some reading done tonight, otherwise I have to do Day 2, 3, and 4 tomorrow.

I got 4 new books tonight, all Amish Fiction, all at 50% off at Barnes and Noble, and I used a $25 gift card I recieved for Christmas to pay for all but about $2. YAY! I gotta get through the rest of "Abram's Daughters" and "Seek Me With All Your Heart". I also picked up "Mennonite in a Little Black Dress" at the Library the other day.

I have a LOT of reading ahead of me... gotta get off here!

Books on tap...

2011-02-12T23:27:00.002-07:00

Okay, so due to some renewal/hold snafu's I ended up having to set aside The Sacrifice until I finished the Kauffman Series. I read and returned book 1, purchased, read, and donated book 2. MY library didn't have book 2 in the series, and the ONE library in the system that DID have it had several holds on it. So I chose to donate it. :) I feel really good about this. I am now most of the way through book 3 and then will return to The Sacrifice which was INCREDIBLE already!

Now Reading: A Place of Peace: Kauffman Amish Bakery Series 3, by Amy Clipston

Next Books:
The Sacrifice: Abram's Daughters 3, by Beverly Lewis
The Prodigal: Abram's Daughters 4, by Beverly Lewis
The Revelation: Abram's Daughters 5, by Beverly Lewis
Seek Me With All Your Heart: Settler's of Cannan 1, by Beth Wiseman

Have a LONG list of wish list books at the library and received a $25 gift card to Barnes and Noble for Christmas that I MUST use before too long! LOL

Books on tap...

2011-02-02T17:43:00.002-07:00

Now Reading: The Sacrifice: Abram's Daughters 3, by Beverly Lewis

Next Books:
The Prodigal: Abram's Daughters 4, by Beverly Lewis
The Revelation: Abram's Daughters 5, by Beverly Lewis
A Promise of Hope: Kauffman Amish Bakery Series 2, by Amy Clipston
A Place of Peace: Kauffman Amish Bakery Series 3, by Amy Clipston

Have a LONG list of wish list books at the library and received a $25 gift card to Barnes and Noble for Christmas that I MUST use before too long! LOL

Books on tap...

2011-01-27T08:00:00.003-07:00

Now Reading: Mini Shopaholic, by Sophie Kinsella

Next Books:
The Sacrifice: Abram's Daughters 3, by Beverly Lewis
The Prodigal: Abram's Daughters 4, by Beverly Lewis
The Revelation: Abram's Daughters 5, by Beverly Lewis
A Promise of Hope: Kauffman Amish Bakery Series 2, by Amy Clipston
A Place of Peace: Kauffman Amish Bakery Series 3, by Amy Clipston

Just popping in

2011-01-25T09:18:00.002-07:00

Well, as you can see from my reading list, I've been BUSY with the books lately! LOL I love when books hold my interest so well that I can't help but plow through them! I need to get the the library again soon, maybe today. So I can get the next 2 books in the Abram's Daughters series. I have requested the 2nd book in the Kauffman Amish Bakery Series, since my library doesn't have it. And I have saved several other books to my wish lists! LOL I should NOT have a shortage of books to read this year!

Reading for 2011-January 16, 2011

2011-01-16T18:50:00.001-07:00

Okay, so today I realized I probably should DATE when I finished a book. So starting now I will do that. I am going to go back and attempt to add dates to the first few books too.

Reading for 2011

2011-01-03T22:40:00.004-07:00

Okay, so I have made my decision...

I am not joining any OFFICIAL challenges this year. I have decided to just create a page to list the books I read. It is up at the top of my page, listed as "Reading in 2011" This is where I will list my goals regarding reading as well. :)

Happy reading everyone. :)

Final Reading Challenges 2010

2010-12-30T22:42:00.002-07:00

What I am doing now and in 2011

2010-12-10T09:13:00.003-07:00

Well, I haven't blogged in a while. My bad. I've been pretty busy. I know. So here's the quick rundown.

-busy with work
-busy with the kids
-State Representative (board position) with twin club
-Counselor with the Pathfinders at church (10-15 year old youth group)
-Thirty-One Independent Consultant

That is the "going on right now" on top of the holidays and feverishly crocheting for gifts and just because I love to this time of year.

Next year, in addition to the above items, because NONE of them are going away...

-Deaconess at church
-tackling Master Guide in Pathfinders (the kids all have different levels they earn, similar to moving from one level to another in scouts, except in Pathfinders you truly EARN your way from one to the next, and adults can earn Master Guide, and from what I am reading, it is NO SMALL UNDERTAKING!!!)
-moving sometime between April and August, hopefully not far, but still, it's a HUGE disruption
-hoping to attend the Thirty-One convention in July, if I can afford it
-At some point I may need to make a trip south, but that is still up in the air, timing and money play a big role in that.

So as you can see, I will be one BUSY BUSY beaver. But happy. :)

Not so patiently waiting....

2010-12-10T09:05:00.002-07:00

I am VERY not patiently waiting for my blogger friends out there in bloggy land to post NEXT years reading challenges... Sad thing being, I know exactly which challenges I'm willing to do, and praying they repost them. I have such a full plate for next year, I cannot take on new challenges in this arena. I'm cutting down to very specific challenges.

*100+ books (divided by 2, meaning, my actual goal is only 50+ books for the year, and if I manage to do more, well that is simply FABULOUS)

*Support your Local Library (at least half my books read are from the library, plain and simple, I want a 50% ratio minimum, not too hard, currently well over half are from the library, and a good number more are already on the shelves at home!)

*First in a Series (6 books that are the first book in a series)

*Second (6 books that are either the second book in a series or you are reading for the second time, or are a second book by the same author, I think that was the rules on that one LOL)

*Finish that series (6 completed series. You have to read ALL the books in 6 different series for this one to count. But I LOVE series books. :) )

That should do it. If they don't post these challenges, I'll just do them on my own, because they are how I want to challenge myself in terms of reading.

The Simple Woman's Daybook, November 28, 2010

2010-11-28T16:27:00.002-07:00

From The Simple Woman’s Daybook

I haven't done The Simple Woman's Daybook for pretty much all of November, so I figured it was time. I haven't BLOGGED much even lately.

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... It is already pitch black, thanks to the 4:19 pm sunset.

I am thinking... About making a batch of cookies for the cookie exchange on Tuesday.

I am thankful for... The laughter of my children.

From the kitchen... Tonight was burgers and left over sides from Thanksgiving.

I am wearing... A brown v-neck 3/4 sleeve t-shirt, skinny leg jeans, and as always, mismatched socks. :)

I am creating... Not a heck of a lot right now. I do have a scarf in progress but I haven't been working on it because reading books has been much more fun.

I am going... NO WHERE!! WOOOHOOO

I am reading... The Secret, by Beverly Lewis

I am hoping... to finish my book tonight.

I am hearing... The kids playing around, the Eagles game on TV, and some screaming to the TV (we are passionate about football around here.

Around the house... Lots to do, cookies to be made, cleaning before the cookie exchange. But the tree is up and decorated and I am SO happy about it.

One of my favorite things... The beauty of the various ornaments and their sentimental meanings.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Football, the pleasure of taking my girls to Ballet this week, work, Cookie exchange, hoping to get Bug into gymnastics, work, work, work, Sabbath. :)

No picture today.

The Simple Woman's Daybook, October 28, 2010

2010-10-28T20:00:00.002-06:00

From The Simple Woman’s Daybook

FOR TODAY-OCTOBER 28, 2010

Outside my window... Beautiful fall colors on the trees. :)

I am thinking... I am SO glad I will work an early shift tomorrow, hope I don't sleep through my alarm again.

I am thankful for... such an incredible BFF who jumped outta bed and made me scrambled eggs and toast and mixed my coffee for me this morning when I woke up when I SHOULD have been at work already! Thank you BFF!!!

From the kitchen... yeah, tonight we ordered pizza from Papa Gino's YUM.

I am wearing... gray capri lounge pants, a medium blue long sleeve tee shirt, mismatched clover socks.

I am creating... Yeah... I still need to work on crocheting SOMETHING outta my pink yarn!

I am going... to make another cup of tea soon.

I am reading... Rebecca's Choice, by Jerry S. Eicher, book 3 in the series.

I am hoping... to be on time to work tomorrow!

I am hearing... CSI on the TV, and an otherwise silent house with all the kids in bed and the adults happily watching the "adult only" shows.

Around the house... Some laundry to be folded.

One of my favorite things... Pumpkin Spice Lattes from Starbucks, Non-fat, No-whip, 140 degrees.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Finish my work week tomorrow, Church on Sabbath with Pathfinder Induction, watch the Saints game Sunday night.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...(add your picture here)

My drive to work right now :) SO pretty.

Book Review: Rebecca's Return, by Jerry Eicher

2010-10-28T16:59:00.003-06:00

Rebecca's Return (Adam's County Trilogy Series #2), by Jerry Eicher

Challenges: 100+ Books, Buy One and Read It, The Second Challenge

This book was significantly better in my humble opinion than the first book.

Rebecca has returned from Milroy, but her lack of communication while she was there has John, her boyfriend/fiance, very worried. He is concerned that he has been replaced. The night of her return they have a heated discussion, ending with and agreement to speak the following Sunday night.

Unfortunately, on his way home, his buggy is hit severely by a speeding vehicle and he is thrown quite a distance. He is hospitalized and in a coma. Will he recover and how will Rebecca handle it?

The Simple Woman's Daybook, October 24, 2010

2010-10-24T12:45:00.003-06:00

From The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY: October 24, 2010

Outside my window... Fresh rain. :D

I am thinking... that I'm really glad I have today off.

I am thankful for... Little girls that are happy to dress up as butterflies.

From the kitchen... I'm going to make bean soup for dinner :D mmmmmmmmmm

I am wearing...Jeans, mismatched socks, black long sleeved tee under my New Orleans Saints personalized jersey/tee :D LOVE game day!

I am creating... I NEED to be creating a crocheted pink poncho/scarf

I am going... to the store soon for bean soup makings.

I am reading... Rebecca's Return, by Jerry S. Eicher

I am hoping... that my New Orleans Saints can still manage to pull off a win, despite how far behind they are at half time.

I am hearing... NFL Redzone, the only way we get ANY of the Saints game.

Around the house... 4 little butterfly girls playing house with each other, and 3 boys happily playing on the computers.

One of my favorite things... GAME DAY!!! And bean soup :D

A few plans for the rest of the week: Work, appointments, shop and assemble goody bags for the MMOTA convention, girls Dance class, get more of the B90 blogs up.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Book Review: Above the Line: Take Four, by Karen Kingsbury

2010-10-23T22:41:00.002-06:00

Above the Line: Take Four, by Karen Kingsbury

Challenges: 100+ Books, Buy One and Read it, Finish that Series

Such a fitting ending to this series, yet leaving the door open for the next series.

Bailey is asked to read for the lead role in Jeremiah Productions newest movie, and when she gets the lead it is opposite the biggest star in the country.

Andi is firm in her decision to give up her baby for adoption, until the ultrasound. In the end, her choice is the best for everyone.

Luke and Regan have decided to adopt, but will it work out?

Keith is worried about the decision Andi has made regarding his first grandchild, and in the midst of it, he is making his newest movie, Unlocked, with Dayne Matthews by his side as his co-producer.

Cody Coleman has finally admitted his feelings for Bailey, but then his mother slips back into drugs and he has to make a choice, the one he loves, or his mother. Is he truly making the decision based on what is best and what God wants him to do?

I can't believe I'll have to wait until MARCH 2011 for the new Bailey Flanigan series!! AHHHH!!! I will be reading Unlocked soon, I'm waiting for BFF to read it.

Book Review: Above The Line: Take Three, by Karen Kingsbury

2010-10-21T20:03:00.002-06:00

Above the Line: Take Three, by Karen Kingsbury

Challenges: 100+ Books, Buy One and Read It.

I read this one SO fast, and I'm reading to plow through Book 4.

Chase steps aside from Jeremiah productions after realizing that his daughters are struggling to remember what he looks like or sounds like. He is offered a position at their church as the youth pastor and he accepts.

Keith, struggling with this new fact, is blessed to find out that Dayne Matthews is looking to become more involved with Jeremiah Productions. Keith and Lisa decide to move to Bloomington to be closer to their daughter Andi, who has been distance and seems depressed.

Bailey is struggling still with her feelings regarding Tim and Cody. She is starting to realize that maybe her relationship with Tim is not all that great, especially whenever she considers that "what if's" of being with Cody.

This book was SO moving. I found it so hard to pull myself away from the book! :) Now I'm running upstairs to grab Book 4!

Post Crossing: A postcard arrived!

2010-10-20T09:31:00.001-06:00

I received a fun postcard from Taiwan today. I love that the sender put everything in the vertical position, instead of the usual horizontal position.

I REALLY have to go buy some new postcards and get them mailed.

Thirty-One Gifts

2010-10-20T09:00:00.003-06:00

I'm super excited. I've decided to become a Thirty-One Consultant. :) I've been debating doing it for a little while now, but I feel the time is right now. I'm still in the process of finding some friends to host shows in November before I order my start up kit. :) If you are interested in doing a party in person, or online if you don't live near me, just leave a comment and I'll get in touch with you. :) I'm so excited!!! :D

Book Review: Above The Line: Take Two, by Karen Kingsbury

2010-10-19T16:59:00.002-06:00

Above the Line: Take Two, by Karen Kingsbury

Challenges: 100+ Books, Buy one and Read it, the "Second" Challenge

WOW!!! Yet another incredible Karen Kingsbury Novel!!!!

Andi falls deeper down the slippery slope of "experiencing life" making decisions that may have permanent repercussions.

Bailey is still conflicted about her feelings for Cody, and is beginning to see the cracks in Tim, and is questioning her relationship with him.

Chase's wife Kelly can't find her way out of the hold depression has on her, and Chase is too busy and excited by the movies he is working on to even notice.

Keith seems to hold steady during this time and is trying to help Chase, but is the gentle prodding enough? Meanwhile his daughter Andi is hardly even talking to him.

WOW, so good.

Post Crossing: postcards in and out

2010-10-19T15:36:00.003-06:00

I received notice that my postcard to France made it to it's destination. :) I now have NO postcards travelling. This is because I NEED to go buy new postcards. Maybe I will do that tonight. :)

I also recieved a postcard from Russia. The front isn't much, but the back is FUN. LOTS of stamps from Russia, and the sender drew a cute picture. :)

The Simple Woman's Daybook, October 18, 2010

2010-10-18T21:28:00.003-06:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... a Police car and two fire trucks. One of our gas mains has a leak, we are waiting for NStar to come do their thing next.

I am thinking... about how grateful I am that BFF smelled the gas.

I am thankful for... Natural gas being "scented." LOL And for quick forgiveness.

From the kitchen... hot chai tea with raw sugar. (and we're gonna have to be careful about dish use until this gas thing is dealt with. No hot water on that side of house, the guy refused to turn it back on!

I am wearing... Jeans, black long sleeved tee shirt, gray hooded sweatshirt, black socks with gray and purple polka dots.

I am creating... nothing really. I need to change that, I have some beautiful pink yarn to play with. :D

I am going... to bed soon.

I am reading... Above the Line: Take Two, by Karen Kingsbury.

I am hoping... that my headache will go away.

I am hearing... the sounds of BFF working on her homework. Wish I could help her with it.

Around the house... clothes galore, toys from the kids, books. :)

One of my favorite things... quiet nights at home.

A few plans for the rest of the week: More work, BFF and I are going to go take our recycling in. I know, BIG plans huh? LOL

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...(add your picture here) I didn't think to take a picture of the fire trucks before they left LOL Oh well, use your imagination I guess!!

B90, Week 16 Check in...

2010-10-18T07:49:00.002-06:00

I did finish!!! :D I finished on the evening of October 11, 2010. That was the 99th day. I took a little longer, but I still finished.

And it was the most eye opening, soul changing, LIFE changing thing I've ever done! There were days I couldn't put it down. And I can't wait to read more. I have been slow about getting my backlog of blogs onto my page. But slowly but surely I will get them all there.

This experience was so profound for me. It helped me understand the Bible better, but it made me feel SO much closer to God. I valued the time I spent reading. I told many people what I was doing, and the disbelief that I could finish in that time was apparent on many people's faces. The farther along I got, the more amazed people became. And now I am excited that many of those same people are getting ready to join me at my church this coming January for our own B90 group!! :)

I am still just so amazed at what I read, especially New Testament, which was very much new territory for me. I am looking so forward to sharing it with others!!

Book Review: Above The Line: Take One, by Karen Kingsbury

2010-10-17T18:42:00.003-06:00

Above The Line: Take One, by Karen Kingsbury

Challenges: 100+ Books, Buy one and read it, First in a Series

Yet another incredible book by Karen Kingsbury. I have been waiting it seems AGES to read this book. :D

This is a departure from the Baxter Family as the lead characters, but they are still there in the book. Bailey Flanigan takes a bigger role in this book than she had in the Baxter series's. It's really nice as a reader to not totally leave behind the characters that I'd grown to love so much, yet being introduced to new characters that are just as unique and exciting to learn about.

Chase and Keith met in college. Then they were missionaries in Indonesia. Now they are set to produce a movie designed to change lives. And it is being filmed in Bloomington. This is no accident, as Keith's daughter is attending school there. Keith wants to be near Andi and he and his wife have concerns about their daughter, who grew up in a totally different world, the jungles of Indonesia.

Andi is Bailey's roommate. She is a "good" girl bent on experiencing life, even if it's not what she was taught and knows in her heart it is wrong. Will she lose herself in the process?

As for the movie, it's a race to finish before the money runs out, unless they can find more money. They reach the end of their money, Keith is starting to tell the crew that they are out of money, even though the movie is not done. But Chase bursts in and stops him. Turns out an interview they gave for ET caught someone's attention, someone willing to invest!

I was so excited to read this book. And now I can't wait to run upstairs and grab "Take Two"!!

The Simple Woman's Daybook, October 16, 2010

2010-10-16T19:46:00.003-06:00

So I stumbled upon this on a blog I follow, and I thought it was interesting and would be fun to do. So I went to the website, read the instructions, and am going to do it, sometimes anyway. I don't plan to make it a daily activity for me, but it's a nice thing on occasion. :)

If you are interested in doing The Simple Woman's Daybook go to the link and read up about it. :)

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... Pitch black darkness punctuated by street lights showing the leaves falling off the trees.

I am thinking... about getting some Peppermint ice cream, and ROLL TIDE!

I am thankful for... my awesome best friend who made sure I was taken care of last night and this morning when I was sick, and even now, and knew I couldn't go to church, but told everyone I missed them. She's so great! :)

From the kitchen... mmmmm... Nachos tonight. :)

I am wearing... Jeans and a brown v-neck 3/4 sleeve sweater. Comfy.

I am creating... a peaceful heart :) Honestly.

I am going... To bed pretty soon, I have work VERY early tomorrow.

I am reading... Above the Line: Take One, by Karen Kingsbury

I am hoping... that I feel better in the morning so it's easier to get up and go to work.

I am hearing... Alabama leading Ole Miss!! :D (I LOVE FOOTBALL!!) ROLL TIDE!

Around the house... LOTS of toys, hmmm. And the water bottles.

One of my favorite things... Reading or football... it's that time of the year!!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Hmmm... Lots of work, time with the kids, shopping for the twin club convention, making some phone calls, and getting healthy again.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...(add your picture here)

This image isn't a real picture I suppose, but it combines two of my passions, breast cancer awareness and New Orleans Saints Football!!! I love that the NFL is so noticeably supporting breast cancer awareness this year. :)

Bible in 90 Days Challenge, July 2010

2010-10-14T23:33:00.000-06:00

I did in the end finish, at 99 days. I will be moving this page to a new page in October 2010 archives soon, to make better room for my NEW Bible in 90 days page!

September 20th Update: I am behind again, about a week behind, and I'm definitely NOT happy about it. I am going to bust it to catch up.
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August 3rd Update: I am officially CAUGHT UP!!!
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July 26th Update: I am about a week behind, but I am playing catch up by NOT doing my full blog, hopefully I can come back and re-do the blogs later, if not, at least I am getting the reading done. I will update when I am fully caught up on the reading. :)
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July 6th Update: We are officially on Day 2 and I have FABULOUS news. My BFF's son ~L and her husband ~B have both decided to read too. I think a friend from church may be joining as well. I am hoping to hear a firm answer from ~K in the next few days, by Sabbath I'm sure she'll tell me!! :) She sounded quite eager last night. I gave her the first days reading info and told her I'd email her before I went to bed, which I did. :)
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I will not be finishing up my course of reading the Bible from the January challenge. It certainly has taken me more than 90 days, but I am just glad that I read as much as I did.

I am SO excited though about the fact that Amy at Mom's Toolbox is doing another round of Bible in 90 Days starting July 5th. You can read all about it HERE! She also just posted a new post on June 28th, HERE about whether you are REALLY in or just sorta in. This really applies to me, I had so much that interfered last time for me. Many would say I was only sorta in. I probably was. I WANTED to be really in. This time, I am committed to staying on track and finishing on time. I DO feel God pulling me to do this.

I hope some of my readers will join me in reading through the Bible in 90 Days. I know that what I have done already has certainly excited me and made me eager to learn more and read the bible more. I hope it could do the same for you!

Links that help me:
Mom's Toolbox-She spearheads the group I read B90 through.
Bible Gateway-Where I go to look up verses to cut and paste into my blog! LOL Or to read them in other versions if I want to.

Links to EACH of my Bible in 90 Days Challenge Summer 2010 Blog entries:
Week One Check-in
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7

Week Two Check-in
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14

Week Three Check-in
Day 15
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Day 21

Week Four Check-in
Day 22
Day 23
Day 24
Day 25
Day 26
Day 27
Day 28

Week Five Check-in
Day 29
Day 30
Day 31
Day 32
Day 33
Day 34
Day 35

Week Six Check-in
Day 36
Day 37
Day 38
Day 39
Day 40
Day 41
Day 42

Week Seven Check-in
Day 43
Day 44
Day 45
Day 46
Day 47
Day 48
Day 49

Week Eight Check-in
Day 50
Day 51
Day 52
Day 53
Day 54
Day 55
Day 56

Week Nine Check-in
Day 57
Day 58
Day 59
Day 60
Day 61
Day 62
Day 63

Week Ten Check-in
Day 64
Day 65
Day 66
Day 67
Day 68
Day 69
Day 70

Week 11 Check-in
Day 71
Day 72
Day 73
Day 74
Day 75
Day 76
Day 77

Week 12 Check-in
Day 78

Week 13 Check-in

FINISHED

Post Crossing: Postcard received!

2010-10-13T14:08:00.001-06:00

Today I received a postcard. The code for the card is China, but the sender says they are actually in Taiwan. :) How cool. :) It is an absolutely beautiful postcard.

So excited to get the next postcard!!

B90, I DID IT!!!!

2010-10-11T20:22:00.002-06:00

It took longer than expected, it took me 99 days. But tonight, October 11, 2010, I have FINISHED reading the Bible. Cover to cover. And it was WORTH every minute.

I would write something more extensive about it, but I am still processing it... :)

Wow, I did it!!! :D

Post Crossing: Postcard received!

2010-10-11T08:30:00.002-06:00

The postcard to Latvia arrived! :) YAY In only 12 Days too. I can send 3 cards right now, but I still need to go buy some more post cards. And a sender from Brazil requested a return postcard as well. I need to go look for some postcards today or tomorrow.

Post Crossing: Sending another postcard

2010-10-09T10:23:00.001-06:00

I am sending two postcards right now. I can send 4 and a sender requested a return postcard too, but I need to go get more postcards!!! LOL

So I am sending the 2 for now, and will send more when I get more cards!

Today it's France and Germany!! :) Woohoo

Post Crossing: A postcard arrived!

2010-10-07T21:19:00.002-06:00

Two postcards actually!! :) I received a postcard from Belgium and a postcard from Brazil! :)

Both senders wrote to me in their native language which I love!! :) One of them asked me to write back to me, and I am happy to do so, because it's fun to get mail!! :)

I am now due to send out FOUR more post cards, guess I better get to work!!!! LOL

B90, Day 91: Still reading

2010-10-03T15:20:00.001-06:00

I'm almost done with Day 79, I'm getting there. I WILL get there!!!!! :) NO MATTER WHAT!!!!! :D :D :D

Post Crossing: Postcard received!

2010-10-03T14:20:00.002-06:00

Today I received notice that TWO of my postcards have made their way to their destinations! :) Postcards were received in both the Netherlands and Germany, both in only 6 days! :)

Tonight I will request THREE new addresses (one for the one that arrived yesterday and two for the ones that arrived today) and I will mail them tomorrow. I will need to make a trip to the post office too, I need more postage.

B90, 90 Day Check in

2010-10-02T19:42:00.001-06:00

Well, I am still behind, but still plugging away at it. I am getting there pretty quick too. I am pretty hopeful that I will be done, or close to done on Monday. I will try my hardest. But no matter what, I will FINISH!!! :D :D

Right now I am on Day 77, but I am not done reading for the night! :D

Post Crossing: Postcard received!

2010-10-02T19:28:00.002-06:00

My postcard to the United Kingdom arrived safe and sound. :) Tomorrow night I will request a new postcard address. I want to wait so I don't lose a traveling day, since there is no mail pick up on Sunday's.

It made it to the UK in just five days, so fast!! :D

Post Crossing: A postcard arrived!

2010-10-01T19:18:00.001-06:00

I received a wonderful postcard from the Netherlands today. Monique included some Dutch for me to translate. :) It is a fun exercise to try to figure out what she wrote! :D Thank you Monique!!

Nique

B90, Day 88: I should be finished

2010-09-30T19:32:00.000-06:00

But I'm not. I'm disappointed. I admit it. I'm reading as much as I can to get finished before Monday, the final tweet up. I know I can do it. I know I can. Back to reading!!