One of the best money saving ideas I know is to cook from scratch. Buy simple ingredients and skip the processed foods. This is a simple homey recipe that is perfect for the crock pot.
Scalloped Potatoes With Broccoli
Chopped broccoli
1 onion chopped
Several potatoes sliced thin
White sauce
Grated cheddar
Use enough broccoli to cover the bottom of the crock pot. Layer the onion on top of that, then the potatoes. Season with salt and pepper and parsley. Stir in the white sauce, adjust seasonings, and cook on high for 3 hours or until potatoes are tender.
When it is finished stir in a couple of handfuls of cheddar until it is all melty.
Basic White Sauce
1 stick of butter
2 cloves of chopped garlic
1/2 C. flour
1 can of chicken broth (or homemade equivalent)
1 can of evaporated milk
salt and pepper
In a sauce pan, saute garlic in the butter. Stir in flour and cook for about a minute. Whisk in liquids and seasonings. Stir until smooth. As it heats, it will thicken. You can add more milk to thin it if you need to.
There are lots of different ways to make a good white sauce. It will replace cream-of-something soups in any recipe. Canned soup is expensive and contains preservatives and too much salt. You can add mushrooms, celery, and whatever different spices. It's quite versatile. Experiment with it until you find your perfect combo.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Thursday, June 19, 2008
I'm Doing It!
This week has marked a new beginning and I want to blog about it to sort of feel accountable. I've exercised on purpose for 4 days in a row! I've wanted to for so long and I'm hoping to persevere long enough to establish a life long habit...not just a phase.
Yep, I call myself a runner. Running sounds so much more athletic than jogging doesn't it? Sort of like carrying a bottle of water just makes you feel healthier than a can of coke. And since I'm not naturally athletic I need all the help I can get. I certainly use the term loosely (although it's really fun to say!).
So I grabbed my iPod, my dog, and my tennis shoes and hit the road. I did seek advice before I headed out on how to begin. Seems like you shouldn't need help to know how to run, but like I said I need all the help I can get. There's even a whole store here for runners, and books, and magazines. Who knew?
I'm working my way up doing the walk more than run method. And on day 1 I was pretty sure I wasn't going to make it to the first tree. Huffing and puffing. Pitiful. I am SO out of shape.
Day 2 was better. I had the whole park to myself. That meant I could sing out loud. The weather was fantastic, a little on the chilly side. There was a family of ducks that wasn't there the day before. A mom and 7 little ducklings...just like you Tracy! I ran a little farther and a little longer. My time was a little tighter that morning so I didn't stay out as long as I would've liked.
By day 3 I was feeling the pain of the first 2 days. Apparently you use different muscles when you run than when you walk. Its a good feeling though. Anyway, there were quite a few people and dogs at my park (no singing) so I cut through the back to follow the creek. It led to an elementary school yard that I didn't know about with a running track!! Oh yes! Joey and I had the place to ourselves. I could see a difference in my stamina in just 3 days. Amazing!
Today was day 4. I stayed up too late last night and slept too long. No running. So I did some weight training and stretching exercises this afternoon. Probably I needed the break, but I did not want to let the day go by when I'm trying to establish a new habit.
I'm planning on running in the morning, and Honey and I are going to bike Waterton in the afternoon. I bike worse than I run. It's a sight to see...and laugh at.
Yep, I call myself a runner. Running sounds so much more athletic than jogging doesn't it? Sort of like carrying a bottle of water just makes you feel healthier than a can of coke. And since I'm not naturally athletic I need all the help I can get. I certainly use the term loosely (although it's really fun to say!).
So I grabbed my iPod, my dog, and my tennis shoes and hit the road. I did seek advice before I headed out on how to begin. Seems like you shouldn't need help to know how to run, but like I said I need all the help I can get. There's even a whole store here for runners, and books, and magazines. Who knew?
I'm working my way up doing the walk more than run method. And on day 1 I was pretty sure I wasn't going to make it to the first tree. Huffing and puffing. Pitiful. I am SO out of shape.
Day 2 was better. I had the whole park to myself. That meant I could sing out loud. The weather was fantastic, a little on the chilly side. There was a family of ducks that wasn't there the day before. A mom and 7 little ducklings...just like you Tracy! I ran a little farther and a little longer. My time was a little tighter that morning so I didn't stay out as long as I would've liked.
By day 3 I was feeling the pain of the first 2 days. Apparently you use different muscles when you run than when you walk. Its a good feeling though. Anyway, there were quite a few people and dogs at my park (no singing) so I cut through the back to follow the creek. It led to an elementary school yard that I didn't know about with a running track!! Oh yes! Joey and I had the place to ourselves. I could see a difference in my stamina in just 3 days. Amazing!
Today was day 4. I stayed up too late last night and slept too long. No running. So I did some weight training and stretching exercises this afternoon. Probably I needed the break, but I did not want to let the day go by when I'm trying to establish a new habit.
I'm planning on running in the morning, and Honey and I are going to bike Waterton in the afternoon. I bike worse than I run. It's a sight to see...and laugh at.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Deals Of The Week
Rite Aid...
~disposable diaper bags - 2.99 w/2.49 rebate = .50
~Bam spray cleaner - 2.99 stack $1 store coupon with $1/1MQ = .99
~Lysol wipes - 2.49 stack with .50 store coupon with $1/1 MQ = .99
~Nexcare bandaids .99 use $1/1 MQ to make them free
~Barilla pasta -.99 use .50/1 MQ = .50
~Angel Soft 4 pack - .99 use .50/1 MQ = .50
~Herbal Essence shampoo FREE after rebate
~Organix Shampoo FREE after rebate
King Soopers....
~eggs 10/$10
~green grapes 10/$10
~Buddies soap .97 use the coupons I posted earlier to get them FREE
Safeway...
~Mission tortillas 2/$3
~White mushrooms 10/$10
Walgreens...
~Oral B power toothbrushes - 5.50 with 5.50 RR makes it free. Use 2 B1G1 MQ to get 4 free! You will need to do 2 transactions.
That's all I see this week.
~disposable diaper bags - 2.99 w/2.49 rebate = .50
~Bam spray cleaner - 2.99 stack $1 store coupon with $1/1MQ = .99
~Lysol wipes - 2.49 stack with .50 store coupon with $1/1 MQ = .99
~Nexcare bandaids .99 use $1/1 MQ to make them free
~Barilla pasta -.99 use .50/1 MQ = .50
~Angel Soft 4 pack - .99 use .50/1 MQ = .50
~Herbal Essence shampoo FREE after rebate
~Organix Shampoo FREE after rebate
King Soopers....
~eggs 10/$10
~green grapes 10/$10
~Buddies soap .97 use the coupons I posted earlier to get them FREE
Safeway...
~Mission tortillas 2/$3
~White mushrooms 10/$10
Walgreens...
~Oral B power toothbrushes - 5.50 with 5.50 RR makes it free. Use 2 B1G1 MQ to get 4 free! You will need to do 2 transactions.
That's all I see this week.
Happy Birthday To ME!
Well not really, but almost.
Last night Honey and I went on a date while the g'mas watched the kiddos. We went to dinner, walked around the lake, and browsed through the book store. Then he wanted to go home. What?! It's not even 8pm! Do we have to go home NOW? Yes, he wanted to go home.
So I walk in the door and ...... SURPRISE!!!
Really really surprise as half of my church is in the kitchen. My first thought was, "Oh no! I forgot it was Bible study night!" No, Bible study is Thursday. They were there for an early birthday party for ME!
My b-day isn't for a couple of more weeks but Mom wanted to do it while she was in town. Isn't she a love? It was all so fun. So she and Nana and the kids were busy planning and organizing and I had no idea. I didn't even notice extra cars in the street. Weird.
Mom made me this most beautiful quilt with all my kids hands and feet. Meg and Lane helped with this one. In the basement in the old house I had lots of little hand prints painted on the wall. From bigger kids to little bitty newborns. Meg traced them off the wall and gave them to G'ma. Knowing that someone would paint over that someday was a sad thought. But now thanks to my sweet family I have them with me now and HERE!
Thank you all so very much! It was lotsa fun.
Last night Honey and I went on a date while the g'mas watched the kiddos. We went to dinner, walked around the lake, and browsed through the book store. Then he wanted to go home. What?! It's not even 8pm! Do we have to go home NOW? Yes, he wanted to go home.
So I walk in the door and ...... SURPRISE!!!
Really really surprise as half of my church is in the kitchen. My first thought was, "Oh no! I forgot it was Bible study night!" No, Bible study is Thursday. They were there for an early birthday party for ME!
My b-day isn't for a couple of more weeks but Mom wanted to do it while she was in town. Isn't she a love? It was all so fun. So she and Nana and the kids were busy planning and organizing and I had no idea. I didn't even notice extra cars in the street. Weird.
Mom made me this most beautiful quilt with all my kids hands and feet. Meg and Lane helped with this one. In the basement in the old house I had lots of little hand prints painted on the wall. From bigger kids to little bitty newborns. Meg traced them off the wall and gave them to G'ma. Knowing that someone would paint over that someday was a sad thought. But now thanks to my sweet family I have them with me now and HERE!
Thank you all so very much! It was lotsa fun.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Life Is Good
Have you ever had those times in life where everything seems so perfect? I'm experiencing that now. Everything seems so wonderful, so how it should be, so happy.
~My family is healthy and happy.
~My husband loves me a lot.
~I have a good Bible study and lots of books I'm working on.
~I'm running! Big huge smile. More on that later...cause I REALLY wanna talk about it.
~My mom AND my step mom are visiting AND 2 grandmas. I'm so blessed to still have 3 grandmas and to have 2 of them here is *fantastic*!!!
~My freezer is full of meat! YAY!
~I have beautiful new curtains in my room that Mom bought me. I don't think I've ever had curtains in my room before. Wait, I take that back. Once I had Wonder Woman curtains that Mom made me when I was little. These are prettier though.
~Blogging is fun. It's a good outlet for me. And I'm liking my church blog too.
~I'm getting my own computer! As in I don't have to share.
~I have fresh flowers in the kitchen.
How I wish I could stay in this place forever. But I can't, so I pray that the Lord will use this time to fill me up for when the next trials come. As for now....I LOVE IT!
~My family is healthy and happy.
~My husband loves me a lot.
~I have a good Bible study and lots of books I'm working on.
~I'm running! Big huge smile. More on that later...cause I REALLY wanna talk about it.
~My mom AND my step mom are visiting AND 2 grandmas. I'm so blessed to still have 3 grandmas and to have 2 of them here is *fantastic*!!!
~My freezer is full of meat! YAY!
~I have beautiful new curtains in my room that Mom bought me. I don't think I've ever had curtains in my room before. Wait, I take that back. Once I had Wonder Woman curtains that Mom made me when I was little. These are prettier though.
~Blogging is fun. It's a good outlet for me. And I'm liking my church blog too.
~I'm getting my own computer! As in I don't have to share.
~I have fresh flowers in the kitchen.
How I wish I could stay in this place forever. But I can't, so I pray that the Lord will use this time to fill me up for when the next trials come. As for now....I LOVE IT!
Monday, June 16, 2008
God Likes To Shop
Tis true. I think He enjoys showing me all the ways He provides for me. I pray before I shop. I pray that He will open my eyes to show me what are good deals for my family. I pray for self control to leave behind the things I don't need. I pray for the cashiers. I pray that I won't forget what I went to the store for in the first place.
Looking into my freezer I noticed it was looking fairly bare. I figured that I had enough meat to last for the rest of June but that was it. My parents raise cows and have blessed us over and over throughout the years with lots of beef. Now I'm many miles away and it's likely not to happen much more.
So I prayed for meat. I prayed for the Lord to start teaching me what was a good price to pay and to show me how to fit it into my budget. Then I get a call. My mom is coming for a visit and bring us a cow! My freezer is full. My God is good. I praise Him and I think He smiles at how amazed I am at His provision over and over again. Thank you God. Thank you G'pa and Nana and G'ma and PawPaw.
I went to the dentist this week. All is good. No cavities. But he said he'd like me to switch to an electric toothbrush b/c I brush too hard. So I mentioned to the Lord that while I'm thankful for all the free toothbrushes I'm getting, I'd really like an electric one now. In my Sunday paper was an offer for 2 free battery toothbrushes, and 2 free replacements!
"And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Phil 4:19
What are you trusting God for today?
Looking into my freezer I noticed it was looking fairly bare. I figured that I had enough meat to last for the rest of June but that was it. My parents raise cows and have blessed us over and over throughout the years with lots of beef. Now I'm many miles away and it's likely not to happen much more.
So I prayed for meat. I prayed for the Lord to start teaching me what was a good price to pay and to show me how to fit it into my budget. Then I get a call. My mom is coming for a visit and bring us a cow! My freezer is full. My God is good. I praise Him and I think He smiles at how amazed I am at His provision over and over again. Thank you God. Thank you G'pa and Nana and G'ma and PawPaw.
I went to the dentist this week. All is good. No cavities. But he said he'd like me to switch to an electric toothbrush b/c I brush too hard. So I mentioned to the Lord that while I'm thankful for all the free toothbrushes I'm getting, I'd really like an electric one now. In my Sunday paper was an offer for 2 free battery toothbrushes, and 2 free replacements!
"And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Phil 4:19
What are you trusting God for today?
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Some Good Coupons
nice. V-8 Fusion $2/1 
here.
here. Another $1/1 Chex Mix here.
Zout laundry stain remover full rebate offer here. I found this at WM for less than $3. Plus there is a $1/1 MQ from a recent Sunday paper.
Thanks to BudgetHelps for posting these.
Sorry my spacing is so weird. Not sure what's up with that.
Sorry my spacing is so weird. Not sure what's up with that.
My Time
"Make time for yourself."
Sounds like something you'd hear on an Oprah episode or read in a woman's magazine. Our culture teaches us to look out for #1, to nurture our inner child, to love ourselves.
And while I don't buy into any of that, I confess that my right to spend my time as I wish is something that I grip with both hands. If I think that someone is taking too much of my time, I can get quite testy. I hate it when people are late, I get upset when my baby wakes too early from a nap, and getting cornered by a chatty neighbor is enough to make me come unglued.
The Lord has been talking to me about this a lot lately and repeats the same word to me over and over....SURRENDER. A surrendered life is a free life. Give it up.
There is no time that is my own. My every breath is a gift from Him. Do I live for myself, or live for God? I need much help and many reminders in this area.
I want to live for Him. I want to be completely and wholly devoted to my Lord. I can not do that when I am trying to fit Him into my own schedule. And so I thank Him for helping me see it His way and I pray...
"Teach me Your way, O Lord, and I will walk in Your truth; give me an undivided heart that I may fear Your name. I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart. I will glorify Your name forever." Ps 86:11-12
Sounds like something you'd hear on an Oprah episode or read in a woman's magazine. Our culture teaches us to look out for #1, to nurture our inner child, to love ourselves.
And while I don't buy into any of that, I confess that my right to spend my time as I wish is something that I grip with both hands. If I think that someone is taking too much of my time, I can get quite testy. I hate it when people are late, I get upset when my baby wakes too early from a nap, and getting cornered by a chatty neighbor is enough to make me come unglued.
The Lord has been talking to me about this a lot lately and repeats the same word to me over and over....SURRENDER. A surrendered life is a free life. Give it up.
There is no time that is my own. My every breath is a gift from Him. Do I live for myself, or live for God? I need much help and many reminders in this area.
I want to live for Him. I want to be completely and wholly devoted to my Lord. I can not do that when I am trying to fit Him into my own schedule. And so I thank Him for helping me see it His way and I pray...
"Teach me Your way, O Lord, and I will walk in Your truth; give me an undivided heart that I may fear Your name. I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart. I will glorify Your name forever." Ps 86:11-12
Thursday, June 12, 2008
New Things
This has been a year full of change for my family. A new baby, a new job, and a huge move to another state. Things that were familiar are no more. And while at first glance it would seem that we have stepped out of our comfort zone, I can tell you that it is not so.
Our house, city, friends, church, and even family is different but our God is still the same. He never changed. He was with us from step one and He is still here now. He comforted us during times of separation and desperation. He proved to be the constant in a time of upheaval.
I recently had the privilege of visiting my home town. I loved the familiarity of it all.
Everything was just the same. When I came back home I was surprised by something I totally did not expect. I started to notice that these places are looking quite homey to me. I'm learning how to get around. I have new weekly events to look forward to. I'm enjoying my neighborhood. I love my church.
And as I was thinking of these things the Lord spoke to my heart...
"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? " Isa. 43:18
When the Lord speaks to my heart like this I feel so blown away by His love. I wasn't thinking about that verse, or about any Scripture for that matter. I was simply taking note of what was around me. It was another reminder that He is always here. Right here! Even when I'm not paying attention, He is paying attention to me.
Our house, city, friends, church, and even family is different but our God is still the same. He never changed. He was with us from step one and He is still here now. He comforted us during times of separation and desperation. He proved to be the constant in a time of upheaval.
I recently had the privilege of visiting my home town. I loved the familiarity of it all.
Everything was just the same. When I came back home I was surprised by something I totally did not expect. I started to notice that these places are looking quite homey to me. I'm learning how to get around. I have new weekly events to look forward to. I'm enjoying my neighborhood. I love my church.
And as I was thinking of these things the Lord spoke to my heart...
"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? " Isa. 43:18
When the Lord speaks to my heart like this I feel so blown away by His love. I wasn't thinking about that verse, or about any Scripture for that matter. I was simply taking note of what was around me. It was another reminder that He is always here. Right here! Even when I'm not paying attention, He is paying attention to me.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Knock Knock
I tried to teach Jes how to do a Knock Knock joke.
I say "Knock Knock"
"now you say 'who's there?'"
He says, "Who's there?"
I say "Phillip"
"now you say Phillip who?"
He says, "Phillip who?"
I say, "Phillip the gas tank please."
He doesn't smile. He doesn't get it.
He says, "Who's Phillip Boo?"
I say "Knock Knock"
"now you say 'who's there?'"
He says, "Who's there?"
I say "Phillip"
"now you say Phillip who?"
He says, "Phillip who?"
I say, "Phillip the gas tank please."
He doesn't smile. He doesn't get it.
He says, "Who's Phillip Boo?"
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Today was one of those days that I had to do a lot of stuff I didn't want to do and didn't get to do much of anything that I wanted to do. At least it seemed that way for awhile.
~It has been brought to my attention that Babyest is getting out of hand. His character issues have been the focus of the day. For me that means wearing pants with pockets to carry around the rod in order to have it right where I need it when I need it. For him that means much less freedom of "speech". By the evening however, he seemed much more peaceful and happy. #1 asked me how long this would last. I told her we will hopefully see fruit by the end of the week. I'm thinking it may be sooner. He's a smart guy and doesn't like being in trouble.
~We visited our new dentist for the first time. An hour before my appt I remembered that I forgot my pre-meds! Heart surgeries always require pre-meds before cleanings. I knew that. So they took 2 kids in my place. 3 appts in all and NO cavities! Praise the Lord! I gotta go back Thurs.
~Honey didn't come home for lunch b/c he had some sort of free lunch thing at work.
~Where in the world did all the laundry come from all of a sudden? It seems like the whole house just unloaded into my laundry room! Lane helped me with this one.
~I think I have enough food without doing a weekly shopping trip!
~Tonight I retired a little early to do some of the things that I wanted to do earlier. I called Mom Wing, looked at the sales papers, and posted on my church's new blog. Ok that was a little intimidating. Blabbing on my own personal blog is one thing, my church one is different. Go visit it here and tell me what you think.
~Oh! I almost forgot! My homeschool group has asked me to come do a RENEW on couponing and saving money! It's not until October and I know a lot can change between now and then, but I'm excited about another trip to AR and the opportunity to hopefully help some of my friends with the new things I'm learning.
~Way past my bed time and I think Honey's waiting for this computer. I'm working to clean my book room to make room for my *own* desk and computer. I took before pix to post when it's finally done. (That'll be embarrassing.)
~It has been brought to my attention that Babyest is getting out of hand. His character issues have been the focus of the day. For me that means wearing pants with pockets to carry around the rod in order to have it right where I need it when I need it. For him that means much less freedom of "speech". By the evening however, he seemed much more peaceful and happy. #1 asked me how long this would last. I told her we will hopefully see fruit by the end of the week. I'm thinking it may be sooner. He's a smart guy and doesn't like being in trouble.
~We visited our new dentist for the first time. An hour before my appt I remembered that I forgot my pre-meds! Heart surgeries always require pre-meds before cleanings. I knew that. So they took 2 kids in my place. 3 appts in all and NO cavities! Praise the Lord! I gotta go back Thurs.
~Honey didn't come home for lunch b/c he had some sort of free lunch thing at work.
~Where in the world did all the laundry come from all of a sudden? It seems like the whole house just unloaded into my laundry room! Lane helped me with this one.
~I think I have enough food without doing a weekly shopping trip!
~Tonight I retired a little early to do some of the things that I wanted to do earlier. I called Mom Wing, looked at the sales papers, and posted on my church's new blog. Ok that was a little intimidating. Blabbing on my own personal blog is one thing, my church one is different. Go visit it here and tell me what you think.
~Oh! I almost forgot! My homeschool group has asked me to come do a RENEW on couponing and saving money! It's not until October and I know a lot can change between now and then, but I'm excited about another trip to AR and the opportunity to hopefully help some of my friends with the new things I'm learning.
~Way past my bed time and I think Honey's waiting for this computer. I'm working to clean my book room to make room for my *own* desk and computer. I took before pix to post when it's finally done. (That'll be embarrassing.)
Our New Church Blog
Visit me here at my church's new blog. I'll be posting on parenting thoughts, marriage, and Biblical womanhood types of things. I'm excited for the opportunity and hope you'll leave me a comment with your thoughts and ideas.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Free Subscription
Thanks to MoneySavingMom for passing along this freebie. I got it the last time it was offered and have received 3 already.
Go here to get yours. These will go really fast. If your total is not 0.00 then it is already gone.
I must say that I am not at all impressed with this magazine. A lot of fluff, nothing of real value. However, my daughter likes to cut out the pictures plus I was able to share them with Mom Wing for her long trip home. Some have had coupons...which makes it all worth it.
Wing Fun
What a fantastic vacation! It was full of....
talking, hikes, walks, sword fights, talking, gaming, hot dogs and marshmallows, sitting around the fire pit, shopping, talking, laughing, shouting, wiffle ball, talking, soccer, minor injuries, movies, talking, church, driving, biking, talking, picture taking (more on that later), park visits, Bible study, sun burns, talking ....friendship, and talking.
They're gone. We're sad.
Now we're making plans for winter!....or sooner?
talking, hikes, walks, sword fights, talking, gaming, hot dogs and marshmallows, sitting around the fire pit, shopping, talking, laughing, shouting, wiffle ball, talking, soccer, minor injuries, movies, talking, church, driving, biking, talking, picture taking (more on that later), park visits, Bible study, sun burns, talking ....friendship, and talking.
They're gone. We're sad.
Now we're making plans for winter!....or sooner?
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Deals Of The Week
Here's a few sales worth mentioning..
Walgreens
Reynolds foil .89 stack with $1/2 MQ and get 2 for .78
Bandaids .99 use $1 MQ to get them free
Ban Deodorant 1.49 use with .75/1 and get it for .74
Rite Aid
Electrasol 3.49 with 1.50 rebate + .75/1 makes it $1.24
Right Guard deodorant 5.99 with $5 rebate + $1/1 MQ makes it free
Safeway
4# strawberries for $4.88
King Soopers
Large eggs 10/$10
fresh pineapples 10/$10
Walgreens
Reynolds foil .89 stack with $1/2 MQ and get 2 for .78
Bandaids .99 use $1 MQ to get them free
Ban Deodorant 1.49 use with .75/1 and get it for .74
Rite Aid
Electrasol 3.49 with 1.50 rebate + .75/1 makes it $1.24
Right Guard deodorant 5.99 with $5 rebate + $1/1 MQ makes it free
Safeway
4# strawberries for $4.88
King Soopers
Large eggs 10/$10
fresh pineapples 10/$10
Friday, June 06, 2008
Our "New" Backyard
Look at these little beauties! There are tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and flowers. Grow Babies Grow! 
Here's the 3rd. Reserved solely for the purpose of boy play.
The fort is finished!
We worked this past weekend then sat back and admired the fruit with a satisfied smile. The roof work was done, the yard mowed, the fort finished, and the garden planted. Big long happy sigh..... And ya know what? Even with the fort up there is still lots of room to run and play in the backyard. We were just discussing that our yard seems to be the perfect size for us right now. Just big enough without being too much to handle.
May Deals
Here's my freebies for the month of May. A little late b/c of computer malfunctions. My favorite is the cereal. 
This was my favorite deal of the month....1 pkg of flushable wipes + 17 Cascades all for $4.49. I'm looking forward to what June will bring!
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Wing Fun (Day 1)
We started the day with many bowls of cereal, lots of chatter, and rain outside the window. Thankfully this is supposed to be the only day of rain.
A soccer game in the street.
A skinned knee.
A wiffle ball game in the cul-de-sac.
Then off to Prince Caspian! Even Jes got to go. Moms and babies stayed home to nap and talk. A quiet house.
Tonight is a special movie on the special dvd player the Wings brought. Popcorn?
I do believe it's some sort of boy war movie.
Much fun-ness.
A soccer game in the street.
A skinned knee.
A wiffle ball game in the cul-de-sac.
Then off to Prince Caspian! Even Jes got to go. Moms and babies stayed home to nap and talk. A quiet house.
Tonight is a special movie on the special dvd player the Wings brought. Popcorn?
I do believe it's some sort of boy war movie.
Much fun-ness.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Bloggging Blues
Wouldn't you know that when I have sooo much to say all of a sudden and lots of pix to share that my computer would mess up? Tis true. I need a new...nic, nick, nik...however you spell it and whatever it is...I need a new one.
So Honey just got a $50 Best Buy card as a coaching gift and he is sweetly going to use it to get us up and running again. Maybe tonight I hope. In the meantime, I'm sitting at my daughter's computer. Not my fave, but it works and she is happy to share with Momma.
I did lots of errands today in preparation for the super Wing visit. We hit 4 stores, the post office, and got gas all in about 3 hours.
Not any great deals to be had but...
Safeway rarely has anything to mention but this week was an exception.
~Wheat bread is on sale for .89
~Honey Bunches Of Oats 2/$3. Use the coupons I posted earlier to get them free + $1 profit.
Rite Aid had a good week.
~Head & Shoulders on sale 2/$8. $4 rebate + B1G1 from the paper makes them both free.
~Aquafresh Advanced free after rebate. Use a $1 MQ and make a profit.
Pantene shampoo is $3. $1.50 rebate + $1.50 MQ makes it free.
~Carefree or Stayfree 2/$5 with a $2 rebate. Use a $1/2 MQ makes them $1.50 each.
**note: Rite Aid's rebates are easy to do. Just like WG, you can do it online and they mail you check in a couple of weeks.
Walmart...
~ Kraft salad dressing rolled back to 2/$3. Use a .75/2 MQ and get them for $1.12. ~Wishbone salad dressing is $1.88. Use a .75/1 MQ and make it $1.13.
Not a super deal but a good price to have it in your pantry if you're too busy to make your own.
~~~~~~~~~
While I was running around with babies in tow, my faithful troops were home cleaning and cooking. I reversed the day to do house work first and school in the afternoon. Just knowing our friends will be here TOMORROW made the work fun and quick. We're so excited!
So Honey just got a $50 Best Buy card as a coaching gift and he is sweetly going to use it to get us up and running again. Maybe tonight I hope. In the meantime, I'm sitting at my daughter's computer. Not my fave, but it works and she is happy to share with Momma.
I did lots of errands today in preparation for the super Wing visit. We hit 4 stores, the post office, and got gas all in about 3 hours.
Not any great deals to be had but...
Safeway rarely has anything to mention but this week was an exception.
~Wheat bread is on sale for .89
~Honey Bunches Of Oats 2/$3. Use the coupons I posted earlier to get them free + $1 profit.
Rite Aid had a good week.
~Head & Shoulders on sale 2/$8. $4 rebate + B1G1 from the paper makes them both free.
~Aquafresh Advanced free after rebate. Use a $1 MQ and make a profit.
Pantene shampoo is $3. $1.50 rebate + $1.50 MQ makes it free.
~Carefree or Stayfree 2/$5 with a $2 rebate. Use a $1/2 MQ makes them $1.50 each.
**note: Rite Aid's rebates are easy to do. Just like WG, you can do it online and they mail you check in a couple of weeks.
Walmart...
~ Kraft salad dressing rolled back to 2/$3. Use a .75/2 MQ and get them for $1.12. ~Wishbone salad dressing is $1.88. Use a .75/1 MQ and make it $1.13.
Not a super deal but a good price to have it in your pantry if you're too busy to make your own.
~~~~~~~~~
While I was running around with babies in tow, my faithful troops were home cleaning and cooking. I reversed the day to do house work first and school in the afternoon. Just knowing our friends will be here TOMORROW made the work fun and quick. We're so excited!
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Our Sunday
Today we joined our church! Honey said it was time to put down roots and not just live here. What a great body we are now a part of.
~My guys are all working in the yard today. We got some tomato, pepper, cucumber plants, and some flowers.
~Most of our school is planned for next week. We will only have 3 school days until the Wings come. I only have to look over a few things. Usually I save it until Sunday but now I'm glad I didn't. I think I'll change school planning to a different day and leave Sunday more free.
~Our roof workers left yesterday. They did a great job and the house looks so much better.
~I'm going to look over the sales and coupons in the paper. I glanced at them before church but didn't see anything too exciting.
~A big nap!
~Date night and I have no idea what's for dinner.
~My guys are all working in the yard today. We got some tomato, pepper, cucumber plants, and some flowers.
~Most of our school is planned for next week. We will only have 3 school days until the Wings come. I only have to look over a few things. Usually I save it until Sunday but now I'm glad I didn't. I think I'll change school planning to a different day and leave Sunday more free.
~Our roof workers left yesterday. They did a great job and the house looks so much better.
~I'm going to look over the sales and coupons in the paper. I glanced at them before church but didn't see anything too exciting.
~A big nap!
~Date night and I have no idea what's for dinner.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Time Sensitive Deals
Today only Walgreens has this coupon to get $10 off a purchase of $30. This is a good time to use "free" coupons to get them more than free. There are all sorts of scenarios you can work up for this if you have the time. Here's some ideas that would work today.
~Walgreens diapers are on sale 2/$16.98. (B1G1 50%)
~Wishbone salad dressing full rebate offer here. 3 days only!!
~Ensure full rebate offer here. There is also a $1 MQ from a Sunday paper making this a small money maker. (These would be a good lunch box treat.)
~Free playtex bottle here.
~Free Chex Mix with this coupon.
~The June Easy Saver book is out and will over lap with May's. Stack those 2 with whatever MQ's you have and you should get a sweet deal.
~There's some Huggies rebate offers here and here.
~Walgreens diapers are on sale 2/$16.98. (B1G1 50%)
~Wishbone salad dressing full rebate offer here. 3 days only!!
~Ensure full rebate offer here. There is also a $1 MQ from a Sunday paper making this a small money maker. (These would be a good lunch box treat.)
~Free playtex bottle here.
~Free Chex Mix with this coupon.
~The June Easy Saver book is out and will over lap with May's. Stack those 2 with whatever MQ's you have and you should get a sweet deal.
~There's some Huggies rebate offers here and here.
Let me know what you come up with!
Ps.. NEVER give the cashier all your coupons at once. In this case you will need to give her the $10 Walgreens coupon first to make the deal work out right. Then do the rest one or two at a time.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Look What A Dollar Can Buy!
If you have coupons that is!
I signed up on the Purina One site to get a coupon for the dog food.
The beans were a MQ from a Sunday paper insert.
The Huggies wipes was from the coupon link I posted earlier.
It all came out to $.92 +tax!
Here's another link for Honey Bunches Of Oats coupon. It may come out free at WM. Haven't tried it yet. Also here, here, and here.
Also Kashi Vive cereal. It may be free too.
Let me know if these work for you...or don't work.
(Thanks to MoneySavingMoms for posting these.)
Happy couponing!!
Rest and Work
There are seasons of rest and seasons of work. Odd as it may sound I feel like I'm enjoying a season a rest right now. Yes I'm homeschooling our 9 kids, managing a busy household, and keeping up with my husband yet it is not as it was a year ago.
My baby is now 13 months old. He sleeps through the night and takes good naps. I'm not pregnant or nursing. We are not in the middle of a move. And I don't have to juggle many activities. I don't need to set an alarm and I feel the freedom to take a nap if I need to, knowing that whatever it is will get done later.
I must say it's a nice time. This time last year was definitely a work season. My husband was states away and I was left with 9 kiddos, one of which was a newborn. I spent many early mornings praying a baby to sleep and cried many tears over our family being separated. I was packing, collecting boxes, and trying to keep the house spotless for showing. I was homeschooling, nursing, potty training, diaper changing, and still keeping up with a rigorous soccer season. Needless to say I didn't sleep much. I know how it feels to think it'll never end.
I look back and wonder how I did it. I'm on the other side and I'm glad it's over. I also know that it will not last forever...and I'm glad. Busy hands and a full plate keep life fun. I hope that when I'm weary from another work season I can look back and remember that it won't last forever. That I'll enjoy the work that needs to be done, praising God for including me, and trusting that the rest will soon follow.
"for He grants sleep to those He loves." Ps 127:2
My baby is now 13 months old. He sleeps through the night and takes good naps. I'm not pregnant or nursing. We are not in the middle of a move. And I don't have to juggle many activities. I don't need to set an alarm and I feel the freedom to take a nap if I need to, knowing that whatever it is will get done later.
I must say it's a nice time. This time last year was definitely a work season. My husband was states away and I was left with 9 kiddos, one of which was a newborn. I spent many early mornings praying a baby to sleep and cried many tears over our family being separated. I was packing, collecting boxes, and trying to keep the house spotless for showing. I was homeschooling, nursing, potty training, diaper changing, and still keeping up with a rigorous soccer season. Needless to say I didn't sleep much. I know how it feels to think it'll never end.
I look back and wonder how I did it. I'm on the other side and I'm glad it's over. I also know that it will not last forever...and I'm glad. Busy hands and a full plate keep life fun. I hope that when I'm weary from another work season I can look back and remember that it won't last forever. That I'll enjoy the work that needs to be done, praising God for including me, and trusting that the rest will soon follow.
"for He grants sleep to those He loves." Ps 127:2
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Colorado
My post titled "A Flood Of Emotions" was written during a time when I was feeling a bit blue. So now I want to write and say how thankful I am to be where I am.
I was so enthralled with AR that I forgot how beautiful my own state really is. Driving through town today I took note of the beauty around me. The trees are much greener and fuller than when I left. Parks everywhere! There are 4 parks I can walk to from my house. I have a nice view of the mountains from my kitchen window. And I love the smell of the pine trees. It's like Christmas year round.
Everything is so convenient and plentiful. My town is not busy and crowded. In fact it's much like FSM. And while you hear a lot about southern hospitality, I will tell you that the people I've met in CO are quite friendly and sweet. I wish I could take you all to church with me.
I will always love AR but I must say that CO has a beauty of its own that is capturing my heart. I'm glad to be here. Really!
I was so enthralled with AR that I forgot how beautiful my own state really is. Driving through town today I took note of the beauty around me. The trees are much greener and fuller than when I left. Parks everywhere! There are 4 parks I can walk to from my house. I have a nice view of the mountains from my kitchen window. And I love the smell of the pine trees. It's like Christmas year round.
Everything is so convenient and plentiful. My town is not busy and crowded. In fact it's much like FSM. And while you hear a lot about southern hospitality, I will tell you that the people I've met in CO are quite friendly and sweet. I wish I could take you all to church with me.
I will always love AR but I must say that CO has a beauty of its own that is capturing my heart. I'm glad to be here. Really!
Monday, May 26, 2008
I'm Back!
Ahhh...good to be home. Lots of happy kiddos to see Momma. Happy Momma too.
My mother-in-law is gone. Honey goes back to work tomorrow. Re-entry is always a bit of a challenge. The plane rides were easy, but still no Bingo. Thank you for praying for us.
So I've surveyed the the freezer/frige/pantry to see what was left and what I need for the week. I think I'm good for a couple of days at least. That's good since I have lots of catching up to do and it's supposed to be cold and rainy.
My plan for tomorrow looks like this...
Breakfast- yogurt with granola
Lunch- Sandwiches
Dinner- Burgers and fries
Me-bread, detail my room/bath, help 7yo, and get school ready for the rest of the week.
16yo- Laundry and detail laundry room.
14yo-lunch and dinner plus organize games and book room.
12yo-detail parlor, organize pantry and frige.
10yo-vacuum, clean upstairs bath
7yo- clean downstairs bath with Momma's help
6yo-clean all the glass
Those are my big goals of the day. The littles will follow us around "helping" or I may sit them down with play dough.
To my reader friends in AR: Remember what we talked about! I'm anxiously waiting.... Thank you all for making us feel so loved!
My mother-in-law is gone. Honey goes back to work tomorrow. Re-entry is always a bit of a challenge. The plane rides were easy, but still no Bingo. Thank you for praying for us.
So I've surveyed the the freezer/frige/pantry to see what was left and what I need for the week. I think I'm good for a couple of days at least. That's good since I have lots of catching up to do and it's supposed to be cold and rainy.
My plan for tomorrow looks like this...
Breakfast- yogurt with granola
Lunch- Sandwiches
Dinner- Burgers and fries
Me-bread, detail my room/bath, help 7yo, and get school ready for the rest of the week.
16yo- Laundry and detail laundry room.
14yo-lunch and dinner plus organize games and book room.
12yo-detail parlor, organize pantry and frige.
10yo-vacuum, clean upstairs bath
7yo- clean downstairs bath with Momma's help
6yo-clean all the glass
Those are my big goals of the day. The littles will follow us around "helping" or I may sit them down with play dough.
To my reader friends in AR: Remember what we talked about! I'm anxiously waiting.... Thank you all for making us feel so loved!
Friday, May 23, 2008
10 for 10
Just thinking about the similarities and differences of time and money. One minute and one dollar are pretty equal in their own different realms. Neither will "buy" you much. Money and time both require much thought and prayer to know how to spend them wisely. They are both gone in a blink of an eye. And when we have spent them we can have something to show for it in the end whether good or bad. Both can be wasted.
Being here on my own with no responsibilities has given me some time to think. Sometimes I don't use my time or money as I should and I usually take both for granted. 10 minutes or 10 dollars may not seem like much but can really amount to quite a bit if I use them wisely. The way someone spends their time and money usually reveals who they are and where their priorities sit.
10 things I'm likely to do with 10 minutes...
1. All kinds of household chores....sweep a room, fold a load of clothes, vacuum.
2. Check e-mail.
3. Write a real hand-written note.
4. Work on my blog.
5. Chat with a friend on the phone. (Nevermind, I always have more than 10 minutes worth to say!)
6. Update my planner or grocery list.
7. Re-organize a drawer or cabinet.
8. Rest.
9. Check the Sunday paper for the weekly sales.
10. Pray!
10 things I'm likely to do with $10....
1. Have lunch with a friend.
2. Rent a movie.
3. Buy a new pair of flip flops or slippers.
4. Buy new magazines.
5. New flowers for the kitchen.
6. A new book.
7. Ice cream for the family.
8. A t-shirt.
9. Hit some garage sales.
10. Yummy bath supplies.
Unfortunately the sad difference between time and money is that you can save one but not the other. You can't save time you can only manage it. You have to use it all now and then it's gone forever.
I pray that the Lord with help me to be a good steward of His gracious resources.
Being here on my own with no responsibilities has given me some time to think. Sometimes I don't use my time or money as I should and I usually take both for granted. 10 minutes or 10 dollars may not seem like much but can really amount to quite a bit if I use them wisely. The way someone spends their time and money usually reveals who they are and where their priorities sit.
10 things I'm likely to do with 10 minutes...
1. All kinds of household chores....sweep a room, fold a load of clothes, vacuum.
2. Check e-mail.
3. Write a real hand-written note.
4. Work on my blog.
5. Chat with a friend on the phone. (Nevermind, I always have more than 10 minutes worth to say!)
6. Update my planner or grocery list.
7. Re-organize a drawer or cabinet.
8. Rest.
9. Check the Sunday paper for the weekly sales.
10. Pray!
~~~~~~~~~
10 things I'm likely to do with $10....
1. Have lunch with a friend.
2. Rent a movie.
3. Buy a new pair of flip flops or slippers.
4. Buy new magazines.
5. New flowers for the kitchen.
6. A new book.
7. Ice cream for the family.
8. A t-shirt.
9. Hit some garage sales.
10. Yummy bath supplies.
Unfortunately the sad difference between time and money is that you can save one but not the other. You can't save time you can only manage it. You have to use it all now and then it's gone forever.
I pray that the Lord with help me to be a good steward of His gracious resources.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
A Flood Of Emotions
Too late Honey I found a house! Just kidding. Sorta.
How I love it here. It's like slipping into an old pair of blue jeans. Just right. Perfect fit. So me.
I have loved every single second of being here. I love every single thing about it. If I could have any material possession dropped into my lap it would be a house/job right here in FSM.
Green is better than white.
Confession: I've cried so much thinking about having to go back home. This is home. I will always be a southern girl.
But time to suck it up, right? Great things are happening in CO. I especially love our church and the new friends we're growing closer to. I know it's where the Lord wants us to be. And if we were to move back I'd feel rebellious. I wish I had more friends though. Those friends that can just dive into deep conversations without the weather talk first.
White is pretty too. New jeans become comfy after awhile. I hope.
How I love it here. It's like slipping into an old pair of blue jeans. Just right. Perfect fit. So me.
I have loved every single second of being here. I love every single thing about it. If I could have any material possession dropped into my lap it would be a house/job right here in FSM.
Green is better than white.
Confession: I've cried so much thinking about having to go back home. This is home. I will always be a southern girl.
But time to suck it up, right? Great things are happening in CO. I especially love our church and the new friends we're growing closer to. I know it's where the Lord wants us to be. And if we were to move back I'd feel rebellious. I wish I had more friends though. Those friends that can just dive into deep conversations without the weather talk first.
White is pretty too. New jeans become comfy after awhile. I hope.
Flying Fun
If you haven't flown in awhile, things have changed. The Lord answered our prayers and we were able to get seats on the planes with no problems. Thank you Lord! So happy to be here with no difficulties.
But as I was flying I thought of some ideas that might make the trip a bit more fun for the travelers. So, I'm giving the airlines a little help (in case some big wig Delta guy is reading) and blog about some changes that I thought might be good for all.
~A plane wide Bingo game. Fun for all ages!! With prizes of course.
~A door prize for those who didn't win a Bingo prize.
~Lose the center row. Nobody wants to sit there and the people of either side of you don't want you sitting there either.
~Snacks. What happened to the snacks? No peanuts, no popcorn, nothin'! And let's go beyond the tired bag of peanuts and branch out into some cheese and crackers or apple slices.
~Magazines. No SkyMall thank you. Real magazines. Not just Field & Stream either. Some girl ones please.
What do you think? The first plane we were on was a big jet type. The flight was over before I knew it. The next one was one of those little bitty ones. Rough and a bit unsettling. Although it was shorter than the first it seemed a lot longer. It was fun though...even without a door prize.
But as I was flying I thought of some ideas that might make the trip a bit more fun for the travelers. So, I'm giving the airlines a little help (in case some big wig Delta guy is reading) and blog about some changes that I thought might be good for all.
~A plane wide Bingo game. Fun for all ages!! With prizes of course.
~A door prize for those who didn't win a Bingo prize.
~Lose the center row. Nobody wants to sit there and the people of either side of you don't want you sitting there either.
~Snacks. What happened to the snacks? No peanuts, no popcorn, nothin'! And let's go beyond the tired bag of peanuts and branch out into some cheese and crackers or apple slices.
~Magazines. No SkyMall thank you. Real magazines. Not just Field & Stream either. Some girl ones please.
What do you think? The first plane we were on was a big jet type. The flight was over before I knew it. The next one was one of those little bitty ones. Rough and a bit unsettling. Although it was shorter than the first it seemed a lot longer. It was fun though...even without a door prize.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Here We Go!
We leave at 4:30 in the morning to catch our first plane to AR. Yippee!! Please pray for traveling mercies and for my Honey and kids at home without us.
So I'm signing off for a week and should be back the beginning of next week. (I'll miss my blog)
So I'm signing off for a week and should be back the beginning of next week. (I'll miss my blog)
Saturday, May 17, 2008
2 more days
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
Day after tomorrow I leave for AR for a whole week. I've never been gone from my kids for more than a weekend. I've never been gone overnight from Mal or Baby Z. And while I've been thrilled about going for months, now that it's here...well, I'm ready to come home. I miss them already.
G'ma is coming and will be a great distraction for Mal and Z. She will be a big help to Lane and Honey. The week will probably go fast.
But I'm praying John 14:27. I don't wanna worry about it. I wanna enjoy the time. I'm looking forward to....
~ seeing my friends!!
~a beautiful wedding.
~ chatting on the porch with my old neighbor and laughing as he fusses about politics and tells me how great his new grandson is.
~walking around my old neighborhood in the mornings.
~going to my old church and hearing Pastor Dale.
~hearing how much fun my daughter is having with *her* friends.
Please pray for us if you think about it. We're flying stand by so that is always iffy.
Day after tomorrow I leave for AR for a whole week. I've never been gone from my kids for more than a weekend. I've never been gone overnight from Mal or Baby Z. And while I've been thrilled about going for months, now that it's here...well, I'm ready to come home. I miss them already.
G'ma is coming and will be a great distraction for Mal and Z. She will be a big help to Lane and Honey. The week will probably go fast.
But I'm praying John 14:27. I don't wanna worry about it. I wanna enjoy the time. I'm looking forward to....
~ seeing my friends!!
~a beautiful wedding.
~ chatting on the porch with my old neighbor and laughing as he fusses about politics and tells me how great his new grandson is.
~walking around my old neighborhood in the mornings.
~going to my old church and hearing Pastor Dale.
~hearing how much fun my daughter is having with *her* friends.
~snow cones.
~coming home!Please pray for us if you think about it. We're flying stand by so that is always iffy.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Interesting Story
My watch battery died. And while I didn't really want to get out today I also didn't want to go all day without my watch. Besides #1 wanted to get her hair cut and tomorrow it's supposed to rain.
So the hair cut place is 2 doors down from the jewelers. While I'm waiting a man in a wheel chair comes in. He is in a lot of pain and asked the manager to call the paramedics. Some time before he had fallen from his chair and hurt his hip. He could hardly move in his chair b/c of the pain.
While waiting for the paramedics (and my watch) I asked him if I could pray for him. When I was praying the manager comes over and starts praying with me too. Nice.
The paramedics come and take him and I'm still waiting for my watch. I'm looking in the cases at all the pretty things when all of a sudden the manager hugs me from behind.
This was quite a surprise b/c I didn't even know she was behind me!
I said something like "Oh! I thought you were my daughter."
She replies, "No, just your sister."
Awwww. I left thinking about how God puts you in just the right spot at just the right time for just the right purpose. Not even sure what the purpose was for me to be there but glad for it just the same.
Pray for James if you think about it.
So the hair cut place is 2 doors down from the jewelers. While I'm waiting a man in a wheel chair comes in. He is in a lot of pain and asked the manager to call the paramedics. Some time before he had fallen from his chair and hurt his hip. He could hardly move in his chair b/c of the pain.
While waiting for the paramedics (and my watch) I asked him if I could pray for him. When I was praying the manager comes over and starts praying with me too. Nice.
The paramedics come and take him and I'm still waiting for my watch. I'm looking in the cases at all the pretty things when all of a sudden the manager hugs me from behind.
This was quite a surprise b/c I didn't even know she was behind me!
I said something like "Oh! I thought you were my daughter."
She replies, "No, just your sister."
Awwww. I left thinking about how God puts you in just the right spot at just the right time for just the right purpose. Not even sure what the purpose was for me to be there but glad for it just the same.
Pray for James if you think about it.
An Attitude Of The Heart
Yesterday we had a horrible parenting day. Ever have one of those where you feel like you've totally blown it? God and kids are good to forgive but it still leaves you feeling terrible. I read this morning about Paul's ministry to the Thessalonians.
He compares his ministry relationship to that of a parent/child relationship and here God gives us a glimpse of what it should look like.
"but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well." 1 Thes 2:7
"For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory." 1 Thes 2: 11-12
I noticed the words:
Gentle- the opposite of gruff, sweetly caring for someone with a smile, kindness
Love- in a way that goes out of your way for someone else.
Delighted to share - happy in doing what you're doing, not resentfully wishing you could do your own thing.
Dealt with each of them - learning who each one is and not employing a cookie cutter style of parenting.
Encouraging- cheering them on and not expecting them to already get it.
Comforting - helping them along when they are down and discouraged.
Urging- wanting so much for them to taste to goodness of God that you never "let it go".
We would've done well to read this yesterday. Today is better than never though and I'm looking forward to a new day with new opportunities. Thank you God that Your mercies are new everyday.
He compares his ministry relationship to that of a parent/child relationship and here God gives us a glimpse of what it should look like.
"but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well." 1 Thes 2:7
"For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory." 1 Thes 2: 11-12
I noticed the words:
Gentle- the opposite of gruff, sweetly caring for someone with a smile, kindness
Love- in a way that goes out of your way for someone else.
Delighted to share - happy in doing what you're doing, not resentfully wishing you could do your own thing.
Dealt with each of them - learning who each one is and not employing a cookie cutter style of parenting.
Encouraging- cheering them on and not expecting them to already get it.
Comforting - helping them along when they are down and discouraged.
Urging- wanting so much for them to taste to goodness of God that you never "let it go".
We would've done well to read this yesterday. Today is better than never though and I'm looking forward to a new day with new opportunities. Thank you God that Your mercies are new everyday.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Forgiveness
2 Cor 2:10-11
"If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And what I have forgiven--if there was anything to forgive--I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. "
Unforgiveness gives Satan a foot hold in our lives. It is an open door to our hearts for him to come in and wreak havoc.
I tend to be one who can hold a grudge or nurse a wound for a long time. But this week the Lord has shown me why this is so dangerous. And just to make sure I get the point, I was put to the test right away. However, and thanks be to God that he prepared me long in advance.
Not only was I reading about forgiveness in my Bible study but also in the Young Peace Maker books I'm reading aloud to the kids. This particular book teaches 4 promises of forgiveness to help us to forgive from the heart and not just with the words from our lips.
1. I promise I will not dwell on what you did wrong. I will think good thoughts about you and do good for you.
2. I promise I will not bring it up to use against you.
3. I promise that I will not talk to others about what you did.
4. I promise that I will be friends with you again.
Aren't those good?
It's a sweet reminder.
"If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And what I have forgiven--if there was anything to forgive--I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. "
Unforgiveness gives Satan a foot hold in our lives. It is an open door to our hearts for him to come in and wreak havoc.
I tend to be one who can hold a grudge or nurse a wound for a long time. But this week the Lord has shown me why this is so dangerous. And just to make sure I get the point, I was put to the test right away. However, and thanks be to God that he prepared me long in advance.
Not only was I reading about forgiveness in my Bible study but also in the Young Peace Maker books I'm reading aloud to the kids. This particular book teaches 4 promises of forgiveness to help us to forgive from the heart and not just with the words from our lips.
1. I promise I will not dwell on what you did wrong. I will think good thoughts about you and do good for you.
2. I promise I will not bring it up to use against you.
3. I promise that I will not talk to others about what you did.
4. I promise that I will be friends with you again.
Aren't those good?
It's a sweet reminder.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Today
~I asked the Lord for a present today. I asked Him to let Baby Boy be quiet in his bed until 7am so I could read my Bible without him whining and crying for me. A couple of whimpers was all I heard until 7am. Thank you God! I got to work on my Bible study book and I'm all caught up so far.
~The dishwasher repair man came just when he said he would! He said nothing's wrong with it and to rinse my dishes better. I don't think he knows.
~My 7yo got past lesson 76 in his reading. He's so happy. Lesson 76 was a doozie.
~I got a going-to-AR errand done all on the phone.
~I finished our Mothers Day presents...late, I know.
~Beautiful (almost hot) day, then very cool and way too windy, then rain and it might snow tonight! I've decided that May is not my favorite weather month in CO. One thing's for sure. I'm going to have to pay more attention to the forecast. Dressing for yesterday's weather will not do.
~Early soccer practice this afternoon and I decided at the last minute to take everyone. I should've planned better. I got home and had to put together a quick dinner. Why didn't I think ahead and put something in the crock pot?
~Hey, speaking of crock pot did I mention that she BROKE?!! My new one! So sad. It has a long crack down the side of the bowl. I'm looking for a replacement bowl online but no luck so far. I'm thinking that after shipping, I might do better to just buy a whole new one. We'll see. Still have my old faithful.
~I got home from practice to find a present in my mail box. My moms sent me their cereal coupons! So sweet. Thank you!
~My son left his soccer bag on the field tonight. Honey drove him back up there. Lane and I prayed for it. It was still there. Whew!
~Mally and I took Baby Z for a walk in his stroller. We rolled over a twiggy branch that caught up in the stroller wheels. Since she was helping me push, it caught up in her feet too. I kept pushing forward thinking that we would shake it loose. She finally looked up at me (trying to keep it together although she wanted to throw a fit) and cried "Not the leaf!!"
~7 more days!!
~The dishwasher repair man came just when he said he would! He said nothing's wrong with it and to rinse my dishes better. I don't think he knows.
~My 7yo got past lesson 76 in his reading. He's so happy. Lesson 76 was a doozie.
~I got a going-to-AR errand done all on the phone.
~I finished our Mothers Day presents...late, I know.
~Beautiful (almost hot) day, then very cool and way too windy, then rain and it might snow tonight! I've decided that May is not my favorite weather month in CO. One thing's for sure. I'm going to have to pay more attention to the forecast. Dressing for yesterday's weather will not do.
~Early soccer practice this afternoon and I decided at the last minute to take everyone. I should've planned better. I got home and had to put together a quick dinner. Why didn't I think ahead and put something in the crock pot?
~Hey, speaking of crock pot did I mention that she BROKE?!! My new one! So sad. It has a long crack down the side of the bowl. I'm looking for a replacement bowl online but no luck so far. I'm thinking that after shipping, I might do better to just buy a whole new one. We'll see. Still have my old faithful.
~I got home from practice to find a present in my mail box. My moms sent me their cereal coupons! So sweet. Thank you!
~My son left his soccer bag on the field tonight. Honey drove him back up there. Lane and I prayed for it. It was still there. Whew!
~Mally and I took Baby Z for a walk in his stroller. We rolled over a twiggy branch that caught up in the stroller wheels. Since she was helping me push, it caught up in her feet too. I kept pushing forward thinking that we would shake it loose. She finally looked up at me (trying to keep it together although she wanted to throw a fit) and cried "Not the leaf!!"
~7 more days!!
Some more bargains at Walmart
Organic tomatoes at $.27/can with this coupon. Click under Mom's Nutrition on the Muri Glen link. You can print this a few times.
Huggies wipes refills for $.17 with this coupon. Great for the diaper bag! The coupon is on the last page and you should be able to print it at least twice. It took me awhile to find these wipes. Not every store has them. I found them on the soap and shampoo aisle at Walmart...not in the baby area.
Huggies wipes refills for $.17 with this coupon. Great for the diaper bag! The coupon is on the last page and you should be able to print it at least twice. It took me awhile to find these wipes. Not every store has them. I found them on the soap and shampoo aisle at Walmart...not in the baby area.
Here's another one for the Buddies soap in case you couldn't print the first one.
Please let me know if these links don't work. I'm still learning how to do it!
What's That Smell
"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him." 2 Cor 2:14
This reminds me something of a parade. A victory parade with God right up in front. Have you seen those parades where the participants throw out candy to the spectators? That's what I think of when I read this. God's in the front, we're following throwing out to the spectators something that God has given us that's even better than candy. The fragrance of the knowledge of Him.
"For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing." 2 Cor 2:15
The same smell is different to different noses. To my mother-in-law, the smell of Korean food is a yummy aroma. To me it is an awful stench. To those being saved our aroma is a pleasant encouragement, a gentle reminder, a worshipful praise to the God they love. To those perishing, it is foolishness at best. It turns them away just as the smell of Asian food does me.
Lord, make me a pleasing aroma of Christ that spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him. Amen
This reminds me something of a parade. A victory parade with God right up in front. Have you seen those parades where the participants throw out candy to the spectators? That's what I think of when I read this. God's in the front, we're following throwing out to the spectators something that God has given us that's even better than candy. The fragrance of the knowledge of Him.
"For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing." 2 Cor 2:15
The same smell is different to different noses. To my mother-in-law, the smell of Korean food is a yummy aroma. To me it is an awful stench. To those being saved our aroma is a pleasant encouragement, a gentle reminder, a worshipful praise to the God they love. To those perishing, it is foolishness at best. It turns them away just as the smell of Asian food does me.
Lord, make me a pleasing aroma of Christ that spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him. Amen
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Give Me Words To Speak
God is so amazing that I am totally humbled and awestruck. You see, I have been praying for the Lord to increase my audience for Him. To bring into my life more people to share with and the ability to do it.
I feel like I do have so much I want to say sometimes but I am verbally unimpressive. I just never have the right things to say. The nice sounding words just don't come. I can't even play Scrabble b/c the best word I can come up with is DOG.
This week God has answered my prayer in ways I never expected. As far as increasing my audience...the door has opened in areas I never expected. In my family and also in my church.
But as far as helping me speak, well that is an interesting one. In response to my pastor's question of "What would be the one new thing you'd like to learn" I would answer to be a sign language interpreter in the church. Perfect for me b/c I could share God's Word with people who may otherwise not "hear" yet not have to fumble for the right words myself. I just say what he says.
Henry Blackaby said it in a different way. He said, "I have no right to respond to anyone apart from God's Word. That is why I just go around quoting Scripture." Wow. Even better than sign language (though I still love the idea) is just repeating God's Word. Never would I have to fumble for just the right thing to say. Never have to worry about getting tongue tied or speaking on my own. Who wants to hear what I have to say anyway when you could hear what God has to say?!!
I have set my mind and heart to memorizing Scripture in earnest now. In my Bible study yesterday I read Phil 4:6-7...
"Do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
The Lord has enabled me to use that verse several times the last couple of days. He has opened my eyes to show me His Word and the ways in which it can apply to those around me. What an incredible God! So living! So HERE!
I feel like I do have so much I want to say sometimes but I am verbally unimpressive. I just never have the right things to say. The nice sounding words just don't come. I can't even play Scrabble b/c the best word I can come up with is DOG.
This week God has answered my prayer in ways I never expected. As far as increasing my audience...the door has opened in areas I never expected. In my family and also in my church.
But as far as helping me speak, well that is an interesting one. In response to my pastor's question of "What would be the one new thing you'd like to learn" I would answer to be a sign language interpreter in the church. Perfect for me b/c I could share God's Word with people who may otherwise not "hear" yet not have to fumble for the right words myself. I just say what he says.
Henry Blackaby said it in a different way. He said, "I have no right to respond to anyone apart from God's Word. That is why I just go around quoting Scripture." Wow. Even better than sign language (though I still love the idea) is just repeating God's Word. Never would I have to fumble for just the right thing to say. Never have to worry about getting tongue tied or speaking on my own. Who wants to hear what I have to say anyway when you could hear what God has to say?!!
I have set my mind and heart to memorizing Scripture in earnest now. In my Bible study yesterday I read Phil 4:6-7...
"Do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
The Lord has enabled me to use that verse several times the last couple of days. He has opened my eyes to show me His Word and the ways in which it can apply to those around me. What an incredible God! So living! So HERE!
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Walmart Deals
Free cereal!! Go here to print a $3/1 coupon. You can print at least two, but it is rumored that some can print 10! Not me though.
Anyway, Walmart has them for $2.50/box so you can get 2 boxes free with a $1 overage.
Here's another one. Print this coupon for $1/1. These are .94 at WM making it free with a .06 overage.
I had a good shopping trip today. I hit Walgreens first for the soap deal. BUT...they didn't have as many as I wanted b/c somebody bought them all up! Was it YOU? ;-p I guess it's best to go as close to Sunday as possible. But that usually doesn't work for me. This week shopping day was Wednesday.
Then I hit Walmart and got the cereal plus 4 boxes of wipes for .17/each with coupons. I wish I could find that site so I could post it for you. I'll keep looking. Anyway, I got the groceries for the week and saved about $15 in coupons.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Henry Blackaby
Just guess where I've been tonight? To see Henry Blackaby!! Henry Blackaby!!
If you're not familiar he's the author of Experiencing God as well as lots of other books. I first did EG when I was a new believer years and years ago. It totally changed my life.
Then Honey went to a Promise Keepers in Dallas and heard him speak. These were the days before cds were the thing and he bought the cassette. I listened to it over and over again. My girls listened to it in their beds when they were litttle. I pretty much memorized it and then the tape got so bad at the end you could hardly understand it. Honey burned it to a cd later and now it's on my MP3. I also had the opportunity to speak to group of teenage girls on it years later. Fabulous stuff.
But tonight I had the opportunity to meet my hero of the faith in person! He spoke at a church in a near by town. When we got there, the ushers told us that most of the pews were reserved and if we weren't with a group we had to sit in the last 3 rows.
ME! In the BACK?? They obviously didn't understand. I tried to talk Honey into making friends with someone up front.
He was just as wonderful as he was in book or tape. I came away with oh so many treasures to meditate on for a long time. I'm so thankful. So happy to get to go. I know already that this is the beginning of a personal revival long overdue. What a special privilege.
Determined to not be in the back again, we cut out early to the book table for signings. I brought all my books from home. Guess who was FIRST? That would be me.
Poor man had to sit there and sign 7 or 8 books for me and listen to me talk the whole time. (I was really excited.) Actually I got to go through the line 2ice since we went back and bought some more. He was very gracious. I took a pic with my phone that maybe I can talk Honey into fixing up for me later. And guess what? They recorded his message tonight so after I get it I can again listen over and over and over again. Not to mention my new books to read (!).
God's goodness never ends.
If you're not familiar he's the author of Experiencing God as well as lots of other books. I first did EG when I was a new believer years and years ago. It totally changed my life.
Then Honey went to a Promise Keepers in Dallas and heard him speak. These were the days before cds were the thing and he bought the cassette. I listened to it over and over again. My girls listened to it in their beds when they were litttle. I pretty much memorized it and then the tape got so bad at the end you could hardly understand it. Honey burned it to a cd later and now it's on my MP3. I also had the opportunity to speak to group of teenage girls on it years later. Fabulous stuff.
But tonight I had the opportunity to meet my hero of the faith in person! He spoke at a church in a near by town. When we got there, the ushers told us that most of the pews were reserved and if we weren't with a group we had to sit in the last 3 rows.
ME! In the BACK?? They obviously didn't understand. I tried to talk Honey into making friends with someone up front.
He was just as wonderful as he was in book or tape. I came away with oh so many treasures to meditate on for a long time. I'm so thankful. So happy to get to go. I know already that this is the beginning of a personal revival long overdue. What a special privilege.
Determined to not be in the back again, we cut out early to the book table for signings. I brought all my books from home. Guess who was FIRST? That would be me.
Poor man had to sit there and sign 7 or 8 books for me and listen to me talk the whole time. (I was really excited.) Actually I got to go through the line 2ice since we went back and bought some more. He was very gracious. I took a pic with my phone that maybe I can talk Honey into fixing up for me later. And guess what? They recorded his message tonight so after I get it I can again listen over and over and over again. Not to mention my new books to read (!).
God's goodness never ends.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Super Deals At Walgreens
I'm really excited about the WG deals this week b/c my friends in AR can do them too.
On page 5 of the ad there is a page of Register Rewards . Basically you buy 9 of those items and get $20 back.
Here's the deal: On the same page is a coupon for Charmin wipes for 1.99. Cascade is on sale 2/$5 Buy the wipes plus 8 Cascades for a total of $22 +tax. Get $20 back!
Basically you're paying for the wipes and getting 8 detergents for FREE. (Does this make sense?) Of course if the wipes aren't useful to you you could just buy an extra detergent to make the 9th item. The wipes are just the cheapest.
If you're not familiar with Register Rewards it works like this. Buy the participating products and a coupon will print along with your receipt. Use the coupon on anything in WG on your next transaction.
So you can do the first deal, then turn around and use your RR for another identical transaction and only be $2 out of pocket. Of course if you have coupons your OOP will be even less. The $20 RR will print every time.
There are other products included too but the Cascade is among the cheapest, not to mention the most useful for my family. I will probably do this deal several times and get enough soap to last for the year.
Here's some other good deals I noticed:
Printer paper 2.99
foil 2/$1
trash bags 3/36ct @ $6 (after rebate)
A note about rebates: If you get your rebate on a WG gift card they will give you an additional 10% (free money anyone?) This of course brings your trash bags down even lower.
Further back in the ad is another RR page for personal products. See if any of these are useful to you or if you can work up a screamin' deal. Even with coupons, I couldn't find a deal worthwhile there.
On page 5 of the ad there is a page of Register Rewards . Basically you buy 9 of those items and get $20 back.
Here's the deal: On the same page is a coupon for Charmin wipes for 1.99. Cascade is on sale 2/$5 Buy the wipes plus 8 Cascades for a total of $22 +tax. Get $20 back!
Basically you're paying for the wipes and getting 8 detergents for FREE. (Does this make sense?) Of course if the wipes aren't useful to you you could just buy an extra detergent to make the 9th item. The wipes are just the cheapest.
If you're not familiar with Register Rewards it works like this. Buy the participating products and a coupon will print along with your receipt. Use the coupon on anything in WG on your next transaction.
So you can do the first deal, then turn around and use your RR for another identical transaction and only be $2 out of pocket. Of course if you have coupons your OOP will be even less. The $20 RR will print every time.
There are other products included too but the Cascade is among the cheapest, not to mention the most useful for my family. I will probably do this deal several times and get enough soap to last for the year.
Here's some other good deals I noticed:
Printer paper 2.99
foil 2/$1
trash bags 3/36ct @ $6 (after rebate)
A note about rebates: If you get your rebate on a WG gift card they will give you an additional 10% (free money anyone?) This of course brings your trash bags down even lower.
Further back in the ad is another RR page for personal products. See if any of these are useful to you or if you can work up a screamin' deal. Even with coupons, I couldn't find a deal worthwhile there.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Whining and Crying
He did the unthinkable. Honey took the kids on a bike ride and left Joey HERE!! Oh the betrayal. He's pacing the house whining and crying and driving me crazy. Gotta tie that leash onto some handle bars next time.
Speaking of bikes...I got one! I was the only one who didn't have a bike. Those days are over. $20 for a nifty green 2-wheeler. It's a man's bike but for $20 ya can't be picky. I want to post a picture but I can't seem to make it work right now. I need my compu-guru. We're going on a ride for date night and I'll post a pic later.
Now we're in the market for those bike baby seats. Something tells me I won't find a coupon for those.
Speaking of bikes...I got one! I was the only one who didn't have a bike. Those days are over. $20 for a nifty green 2-wheeler. It's a man's bike but for $20 ya can't be picky. I want to post a picture but I can't seem to make it work right now. I need my compu-guru. We're going on a ride for date night and I'll post a pic later.
Now we're in the market for those bike baby seats. Something tells me I won't find a coupon for those.
Friday, May 02, 2008
More Veggies
Don't you love the fresher foods when the warmer weather hits? I made this today in a new attempt to get everyone to eat more salad. I'm going to try to keep it filled all the time with new and different things. I'm hoping that my kids will become more salad friendly if they can pick their own toppings. Pear Streusel
I made this for breakfast yesterday and it was gone in no time! It's one of the new ones from the Cooking Light magazine. 
5# pears (or apples) washed and cut into chunks
5# pears (or apples) washed and cut into chunks
2/3 C. pineapple or apple juice poured over pears
Topping:
3/4 C. ww flour
3/4 C. sucanat or brown sugar
1/4 C. melted butter
3 T. honey
1 1/2 t. cinnamon
3/4 t. salt
3/4 C. chopped nuts
Mix all topping ingredients except nuts. Sprinkle evenly over pears. Top with nuts. Bake @ 375 for 30 minutes.
Guess Who's Who
Sometimes these guys look so much alike.
It's hard to tell the difference from the back.
Pretty handsome in the front too!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Cooking Light
I LOVE this magazine. I've picked up used copies at the library for 25 cents. At first I was leery thinking it would probably be a lot of low fat cream of mushroom soup type stuff. I decided to risk the quarter and get it anyway.
Its not at all what I thought. Most of it is whole foods type recipes or can be easily converted. There are a few sugary desserts, but not many. Most of it is truly healthy. I've pulled out about 15 new recipes to try this month. I'll be posting the good ones....
A New Month
I was doing so good on my grocery budget for April. Then I fell flat on my face at the finish line. I came in at $827, which is only $41 less than March.
But now is a new month! My new price to beat is $827.
I went shopping today with Mayfee and Bird. Whenever I put something in the cart, he'd ask "Is it free?" No Buddy, no freebies today.
$501 later we have a full pantry/fridge/freezer. That should do for awhile...until next week anyway.
But now is a new month! My new price to beat is $827.
I went shopping today with Mayfee and Bird. Whenever I put something in the cart, he'd ask "Is it free?" No Buddy, no freebies today.
$501 later we have a full pantry/fridge/freezer. That should do for awhile...until next week anyway.
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