Dawn's Daily Life

Thursday Thirteen

2009-12-03T06:03:00.001-06:00

13 Things I Want To Do With My Kids This Christmas Season

1. Make a gingerbread house.

2. Paint ceramic Christmas ornaments for our tree and read Jesus, Me, and My Christmas Tree (by Crystal Bowman).

3. Watch the Polar Express while drinking hot chocolate...we will also read the book. I actually would love to have a Christmas movie marathon day. Could I sit that long? Probably! Could my children? I'm not so sure. ;-)

4. Allow each child to pick out a toy (with guidance) to give to Toys for Tots.

5. Have a slumber party in front of the Christmas tree with Christmas music playing.

6. Talk about angels and make one out of our handprints and footprints.

7. Go around being invisible angels to our friends and family, as well as some strangers.

8. Bake yummy banana bread and talk together about how Jesus called Himself the "Bread of Life."

9. Make birdseed wreaths to hang in our trees outside.

10. Drive through the Festival of Lights Holiday Light Show, and drive around to see decorated homes.

11. Make homemade Christmas cards for their teachers.

12. Do our advent calendars daily. We have a family one that is magnetic and each day tells a story about the piece inside. Also, each child has their own that they can get a piece of candy out of each day.

13. Go to church on Christmas Eve.

Christmas Questions...Day 3

2009-12-03T06:00:00.003-06:00

22 Days until Christmas!!

#276~Have you ever begun a friendship or romance with someone on Christmas? Nope. I did get engaged on Christmas once, but that relationship didn't last. Praise God! ;-)

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I do hope you will play along! Share away!

Christmas Questions...Day 2

2009-12-02T06:00:00.002-06:00

Only 23 days until Christmas!!

#224~If a child asked you what causes Rudolph's nose to glow, what would your response be?

I would probably tease them that Rudolph ate one too many tomatoes, but then I would tell them the truth...it's how God made him. :-)
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What would you say? Do share!

December Is Here!!

2009-12-01T07:31:00.001-06:00

December Leaves
The fallen leaves are cornflakes
that fill the lawn's wide dish.
The night and noon, the wind a spoon
and stirs them with a swish.

The sky's a silver sifter,
a-sifting white and slow
that gently shakes on crisp brown flakes
the sugar known as snow.

Festive Foods

2009-12-01T07:14:00.001-06:00

Do you remember those cute turkey snacks I shared right before Thanksgiving? Well, the same friend that sent me that recipe, also sent me these two. I'm tellin' you...Deidre rocks!

Parmesan Breadstick Candy Canes

Ingredients

1 can (11 oz.) refrigerated soft breadsticks

3 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted

1/2 cup KRAFT Grated Parmesan Cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Separate breadsticks; cut each crosswise in half. Dip in butter, then in cheese, turning to evenly coat all sides.

Twist breadsticks; shape into candy-cane shapes on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake 14 to 18 min. or until golden brown. Serve warm.

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Party Cheese Wreath

Ingredients

2 pkg. (8 oz. each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

1 pkg. (8 oz.) KRAFT Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

1 Tbsp. finely chopped onions

1 Tbsp. chopped red bell peppers

2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp. lemon juice

Dash ground red pepper (cayenne)

Directions

Beat cream cheese and Cheddar cheese in small bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended.

Add remaining ingredients; mix well. Cover. Refrigerate several hours or overnight.

Place drinking glass in center of serving platter. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of cheese mixture around glass, just touching outer edge of glass to form ring; smooth with spatula. Remove glass. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional red bell pepper, if desired. Serve with assorted NABISCO Crackers and breadsticks.

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I hope that I get the chance to at least make one of these recipes during the holiday season. They are so cute and would add a festive touch to any meal. :-)

Christmas Questions...Day 1

2009-12-01T06:00:00.006-06:00

I recently bought this book. It is called 'The Christmas Conversation Piece,' and it was written by Bret Nicholaus and Paul Lowrie. This book is filled with 302 "creative questions to illuminate the holidays." So, I thought I would share one question every day from here until Christmas day. I hope that you will play along too by answering the questions in my comment section or on your own blog. This should be a fun way to get to know each other a little better! :-)
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#107~If you could go anywhere at all to reflect and meditate on the meaning of Christmas, where would you go? (Why?)

Well, the words reflect and meditate tells me I am alone. I think I would do my best thinking about the meaning of Christmas somewhere with lots of Christmas lights. I am thinking of somewhere like this...

These two pictures are of Clifton Mill in Clifton, Ohio. Isn't it just gorgeous? I think I could do tons of reflecting and meditating there.
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Okay, I do hope you will play along! Share away!

BTW, only 24 more days until Christmas!!

Our Menu For 11/30/09 to 12/06/09

2009-11-29T17:09:00.000-06:00

Monday~Baked Ziti with Garlic Bread
Tuesday~Crockpot Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles
Wednesday~Beef Stir Fry with Sticky Rice
Thursday~Mustgoes
Friday~Pork Chops, Stuffing and Corn
Saturday~Cheese Quesadillas
Sunday~Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes

~~~Food Holidays~~~

This week:

November 30th~National Mousse Day
December 1st~National Pie Day
December 2nd~National Fritters Day
December 3rd~National Apple Pie Day
December 4th~National Cookie Day
December 5th~National Sacher Torte Day
December 6th~National Gazpacho Day, Microwave Oven Day

Next Week:

December 7th~National Cotton Candy Day
December 8th~National Chocolate Brownie Day
December 9th~National Pastry Day
December 10th~National Lager Day
December 11th~National Noodle Ring Day
December 12th~National Cocoa Day
December 13th~Ice Cream and Violins Day

Friday Fill-In

2009-11-27T07:22:00.003-06:00

1. Wait! Wait, don't forget the Christmas season starts today.
2. The kids' bedtime is followed at once by vegging on the couch.
3. The trouble is they sometimes get out of bed and ruin my vegging time.
4. I wish some of our family members didn't live so many miles away.
5. With a faint pop the balloon broke.
6. Walking alone at night in a poorly lit area can be shadowy and ominous.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to shopping with my mom, as well as eating out lunch and dinner with her, tomorrow my plans include taking my kids to my nephew's birthday party and Sunday, I want to go to church and then relax at home!

Thursday Thirteen

2009-11-26T05:39:00.003-06:00

13 Things For Which I Am Thankful

1. Jesus~Praise God for sending a savior our way! He knew we needed one.

2. Jeff~My hubby is funny, cute, and a wonderful provider. I am so thankful that he provides well for our family, so that I may stay home with our kiddos.

3. My Kids~Sure, they drive me nuts. They also provide much joy, laughter, and love. I can't imagine my life without each of them.

4. My Mom~She is not only my mom, but she is my friend. She helps me out a ton. I couldn't do all that I do without her.

5. My Sisters~I am so thankful that God brought them both back into my life. I am loving building a relationship with them.

6. Family~Both the family I was born into and the one I married into are wonderful. I love this time of year because we get to see family more often.

7. Friends~I am blessed to have several friends that are near and dear to my heart. They laugh with me during good times and help me through hard times, and I hope they know I would do the very same for them.

8. Our House~Over the past year or so, we have heard on the news about many foreclosures. I am thankful to have a home that I find cozy. I am also thankful to my husband for providing so we can pay for the home, and for not listening to me when I get convinced we too should have the best and most extravagant home. I am so thankful that we help keep each other in line financially. Okay, he more so keeps me in line, but I am still thankful. ;-)

9. Our Public Library~I love to read!!! Seriously I crave books. I can't imagine not having a wonderful public library to go to so that I can satisfy that craving. There are great books for both adults and children, movies, books on tape, and music. There are also some very friendly people working there. How could you not be thankful for such a great place?

10. Freedom~I am thankful that I am free to go to any church I choose. I am also free to say (or write) what is on my mind. Freedom is a beautiful thing!

11. Health~My family is healthy, and I am fairly healthy. Woohoo!

12. Holidays~I love holidays! I am thankful for the traditions that surround them, the family that comes together during them, and the memories that are created during them.

13. Pepsi~Sure, I am addicted, but I am so thankful that I am addicted to Pepsi instead of alcohol. I specifically remember a Thanksgiving where I was hungover and hating myself. Thank you God for delivering me from those awful days.

Thanksgiving Prayer

Heavenly Father, on Thanksgiving Day
We bow our hearts to You and pray.
We give You thanks for all You've done
Especially for the gift of Jesus, Your Son.
For beauty in nature, Your glory we see
For joy and health, friends and family,
For daily provision, Your mercy and care
These are the blessings You graciously share.
So today we offer this response of praise
With a promise to follow You all of our days.

--Mary Fairchild

I hope each and every one of you has a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Our Menu For 11/23/09 to 11/29/09

2009-11-23T06:34:00.000-06:00

Okay, I love Thanksgiving, but I have to be honest...a whole lot of cooking has to be done for that one day. So, I am taking it easy the rest of the week. ;-)

Monday~French Toast and Bacon (We are celebrating early! No harm in that.)
Tuesday~BTC's (Bacon, Tomato & Cheese Sandwiches) with Potato Chips
Wednesday~Pizza
Thursday~Thanksgiving!! Click here to see our Thanksgiving Day menu.
Friday~Mustgoes
Saturday~Nachos
Sunday~Chili

~~~Food Holidays~~~

This week:

November 23rd~National Espresso Day & Eat a Cranberry Day
November 24th~National Sardines Day
November 25th~National Parfait Day
November 26th~National Cake Day
November 27th~National Bavarian Cream Pie Day
November 28th~National French Toast Day
November 29th~National Lemon Creme Pie Day

Next Week:

November 30th~National Mousse Day
December 1st~National Pie Day
December 2nd~National Fritters Day
December 3rd~National Apple Pie Day
December 4th~National Cookie Day
December 5th~National Sacher Torte Day
December 6th~National Gazpacho Day, Microwave Oven Day

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-19T07:19:00.002-06:00

I am thankful for my book club. The ladies are so wonderful, and I love meeting with them once a month. Each and every one of them is a blessing.

I am thankful for holidays like Thanksgiving. It's a time when family gathers together, and we are blessed to be having some of our out-of-town family coming.

I am thankful for Tammy who played my new meme, called Be A Blessing, this week.

I am thankful that my mom's colonoscopy results came back just fine. Such a relief!

I am thankful for all of these things...and so much more!

Thursday Thirteen

2009-11-18T23:03:00.000-06:00

13 Things My Kids & I Learned From Reading '...If You Sailed On The Mayflower in 1620'

1. The Mayflower was a sailing ship and a cargo ship. She was not made to carry people, but she did bring 102 people from England to the New World in 1620. Thirty-four of these people were children.

2. A baby was born while the Mayflower sailed across the Atlantic Ocean. It was a boy, and his parents named him Oceanus. (What a name!)

3. There were also about 30 sailors on the Mayflower.

4. The sailors and the Pilgrims did not like each other. The sailors lauged at the Pilgrims because they got seasick. They also didn't like the Pilgrims prayers and holy songs. The Pilgrims did not like the language the sailors used.

5. There were no bathrooms on the Mayflower, so you wouldn't have been able to keep clean. If you did want to wash, you would have to use ocean water, which is salty. You wouldn't be able to wash your clothes either.

6. There were at least two dogs on board, and every ship had a cat to catch the rats. (Ewwwww!)

7. John & Francis Billington were two young boys on the ship that got in trouble often. Francis Billington set fire to a piece of rope when he was standing close to some barrels of gunpowder. Praise God no sparks went towards the barrels.

8. The pilgrims first landed on November 9, 1620. That is when they reached Cape Cod, which is now part of the state of Massachusetts. The voyage took a total of 66 days.

9. Even before they left the ship, they made rules. It was the first set of rules in America that said that the majority should rule.

10. The first thing the women did when they got to shore was wash clothes. There were so many dirty clothes to be washed, and it took them all day to complete this task.

11. The Pilgrims were hard workers. However, from Saturday afternoon until Monday morning they did not do any work. They didn't even cook. This was their time to worship God.

12. Sickness was horrible that first winter in Plymouth. By spring, about half of the Pilgrims and sailors were dead. The Pilgrims buried the dead, and they did not mark the graves in any way.

13. The first Thanksgiving took place around the middle of October in 1621. The holiday lasted for three days.

I could go on! This book was just packed with so much information. It talked about what the Pilgrims wore, the peace treaty between the Pilgrims and the Indians, where the Pilgrims lived, what kind of furniture had, and so much more. If you have elementary aged kids, check this book out and read it with your kids. You are sure to learn lots of interesting things. :-)

It's A Choice!

2009-11-17T16:41:00.003-06:00

The weather here has been so dreary and rainy. It's easy not to like this weather, but I am choosing to love it.

Yesterday I went to Ali's school to help in her class, and as I was leaving the wind whipped through me. It was a cold 45 degrees, but it put a smile on my face. Why? Because it is Fall weather, and I love Fall. Also, because this weather reminds me of Thanksgiving, which is less than 2 weeks away. Oh, and let's not forget that this weather means that winter is on its way. Snow!!

After I left Ali's school, I had to go pick Meggie up at my mom's house. This is what I saw on my drive...

I just think that is beautiful. I know it is gray and the trees are bare, but it is still beautiful. God had his hand in all of this beauty.

When I got home, I walked around my yard for a bit just enjoying the chill in the air. I know that you probably think I am a dork, but that is okay. I really do love this weather! It's easy for me to wish it were a bit warmer or sunnier, but I know those days will be here. I need to just focus on what is today, and I need to choose to love what God has given me. I love this tree in our front yard, and I think it is beautiful during all the seasons.

While I was out there I heard some honkers. That is what my kids and I call geese. :-) Here they are heading south for the winter. Crazy geese! Don't they know central Illinois is a great place to be in the winter? We get snow!!!

I admit that I couldn't stay outside too long. I really need to start wearing a coat. This was okay though because I had a warm house beckoning me.

During late Fall and Winter it is very easy to be thankful for a house to keep you dry and warm. There may be things in your home that need fixed. It may not be the fanciest, cutest, or (insert any descriptive word here), but it is a safe place to land. That is a beautiful thing!

So, how about you? Are you loving the weather this time of year? Are you grateful for your home? I hope so! :-)

A-Door-Uh-Bull!!!

2009-11-17T16:04:00.000-06:00

Aren't these little turkeys just adorable? My friend, Deidre, emailed me the recipe. They look so simple and so tasty! I like that you can make them ahead of time, and I am sure that the kids will think they are great. Now I just have to see if I can still find candy corns. Hmmm, I'm going on a hunt. LOL!

Ingredients

Canned vanilla frosting
Round cracker
Corn candies
Chocolate kisses
Caramel

Directions

Spread some canned vanilla frosting on a round cracker.
Place a chocolate kiss near the bottom of the cracker.
Add corn candies above the kiss to make feathers; place one corn candy on the kiss for the head.
Let frosting dry.
To make "turkey" stand up, attach a caramel to the back with more frosting.
Make-Ahead Tip: Make these edible decorations up to 3 days ahead. Store in airtight container.

Ten On Tuesday

2009-11-17T08:52:00.000-06:00

10 Things I Wish I Knew How To Do

1. Sew...Jeff bought me a sewing machine for Christmas about 6 years ago. I have attempted to use it, but I am pretty clueless. I need to take a class.

2. Decorate Cakes...Okay, I know I do this now, but I want to know how to do it right. When my kids get older, I am going to take some Wilton classes at Hobby Lobby or Michaels.

3. Speak a Different Language Fluently...I took many years of Spanish. I started in junior high and continued through college. I can't really speak it though. I can only say a few words or phrases.

4. Play the Violin...I played when I was in 5th and 7th grade. Someday I would like to learn to play again.

5. Take Great Photos...I want to learn what all those darn settings are for, so I don't always have to default to the auto setting.

6. How To Dance...I am just not very coordinated.

7. Draw or Paint...I have no talent in this area. I wish I did because it always seemed like it would be a relaxing way to spend time.

8. Sing...I love to sing, but I wish I could actually sing well. Sadly, God did not give me that gift.

9. Magically Lose Weight...I know how to lose weight. You exercise more and eat less. What I want to know is how to magically lose weight. That way I wouldn't have to exercise, and I could eat everything I wanted. If only I could figure this out!!!

10. Whistle...I can only whistle by sucking air in, and it is a really wimpy whistle. I want to know how to whistle like a pro. My dad used to use two fingers and whistle so loudly I knew it was time to come home for dinner. Now that was impressive!

Be A Blessing!

2009-11-17T00:01:00.000-06:00

'Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.'~1 Peter 3:8-9

God has called us to be blessings. We bless people every day. When we hold our tongue or say something kind when we want to yell insults, we are being a blessing. When we live harmoniously with others, we are blessings. What does that mean? To me it means getting along with others and providing them with joy. I'm sure you bring people joy all the time. You are a blessing! Share how you have been a blessing to someone this past week. I can't wait to read all about it on your blog. :-)

I often struggle to see the things that I do as blessings. Can you relate? I think the more I do this meme the easier it will be for me to see the things I do as blessings. At least I hope so.

This past weekend I had some of the girls over for some girl time. We talked, laughed, smelled Scentsy scents, and ate some yummy food. Some of us even drank a cup of spiked cider. I thought it was a great night. My friend, Danielle, called me yesterday to thank me for the evening, and to tell me that all the food was yummy. She said she had a good time. I provided some women, including myself, with some joy, and I call that a blessing!

My poor mom is going to have a colonoscopy done today. She could only drink liquids yesterday. Well, she could eat Jello too, but she only had red, and she wasn't supposed to eat red. So, Meghan and I went to the store to pick her up some green Jello. Apparently the liquid stuff she had to drink every 30 minutes is just disgusting, so I pray that the green Jello brightened her day. Sometimes doing somthing little like that is all it takes to be a blessing in someone's life. :-)

Heads Or Tails

2009-11-16T20:48:00.000-06:00

The theme for this week is...
TAILS- "Autumn Memory"

The first thing that came to mind when I read Autumn memory is this photo.

This pic is from my pre-digital days. It was taken back when Jeff and I were just dating. We lived in southern Illinois, which is a beautiful area.

One weekend we went driving around, and one of our stops was Bald Knob Cross, which is where this picture was taken. We were just enjoying being together. We didn't have children, didn't own our own businesses, and we didn't own a home that needed to be cleaned and cared for. Life was so different back then.

I love this picture because of the quilt of colors in the background. Well that and my cute hubby is in the picture. ;-) The quality isn't as good because it is scanned, but I promise you that the patchwork of colors in the background was just breathtaking. Plus, you could see for miles and miles up there. Beautiful sight!

I want to relive this Autumn memory. I want to spend time with my man without responsibilities worrying us or cluttering our minds. I want to spend a whole day with him laughing, talking, and loving. Heck, I don't care if this memory takes place in Autumn. Winter is a great season too, as is Spring and Summer. Winter is closer though! :-)

I just want to say that I am super excited that Heads or Tails is back!!! You should play along too. Share an Autumn memory on your blog, and then go here to share.

Dear Santa

2009-11-16T10:29:00.000-06:00

Dear Santa~

I'm not sure what I want for Christmas. Okay, that is a lie. I know what I want, but it seems a bit pricey. All I want for Christmas is a wood-burning fireplace. Santa, I have wanted this forever, and I feel I have been a really good girl this year.

Okay, maybe not really good. Maybe more like pretty good. Alright, I suppose I should say good enough. Don't you agree? Haven't I been good enough? Cut me some slack Santa! I am dealing with three active, feisty, and stubborn children.

Speaking of those children, I understand if you don't want to bring them anything. They have been down-right horrible at times!! However, it would mean a lot to me if you would gloss over their bad behavior. Just this one time. I promise to whip them into shape before next Christmas. You won't even recognize them next year, Santa.

I know what you are thinking. You are thinking that that is one promise I can't keep. You might be right. I said might! How about if we make a deal. You still bring my ~~rotten~~ wonderful children presents and I will set out extra cookies for you. Deal? Great! Any certain type of cookie you would like? You name it, Santa!

All my love~Dawn Marie

Our Menu For 11/16/09 to 11/22/09

2009-11-15T22:39:00.000-06:00

Monday~Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans
Tuesday~Tacos
Wednesday~Baked Ziti with Garlic Bread
Thursday~Mustgoes
Friday~Crockpot Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles
Saturday~Beef Stir Fry over Sticky Rice
Sunday~Pork Chops, Stuffing, and Corn

~~~Food Holidays~~~

This week:

November 16th~National Fast Food Day
November 17th~National Baklava Day & Homemade Bread Day
November 18th~National Vichyssoise Day
November 19th~Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day (Woohoo! A day for my Pepsi!!)
November 20th~National Peanut Butter Fudge Day & Noveau Beaujolais Day
November 21st~Gingerbread Day
November 22nd~National Cashew Day

Next Week:

November 23rd~National Espresso Day & Eat a Cranberry Day
November 24th~National Sardines Day
November 25th~National Parfait Day
November 26th~National Cake Day
November 27th~National Bavarian Cream Pie Day
November 28th~National French Toast Day
November 29th~National Lemon Creme Pie Day

Reverse Trick-Or-Treating

2009-11-15T09:37:00.002-06:00

Have you ever heard of Reverse Trick-Or-Treating? Well, a day or two before Halloween we had some reverse Trick-Or-Treaters come to our door. They were from a local church, and they gave the kids some candy and left a book for Jeff and myself. The book was titled '199 Reasons To Be Thankful.'

199 reasons folks! That is a lot of reasons to be thankful. No matter what is going on in your life, and I do mean no matter what, there is still something to be thankful for. This book is proof. Here are some of the reasons they list and what they say about them.

5. Sabbath Rest~In this crazy workaholic world we live in, rest is tough to come by. We run full steak ahead all day long and then struggle to sleep when we finally tumble into bed. God ordained rest. It's one of His greatest gifts to us, and one we should be very thankful for!

14. Jesus' Work On The Cross~In one sacrificial act, Jesus offered Himself as atonement for all. Oh, the blood of Jesus! It truly washes me whiter than snow. May we never take the work of the cross for granted.

Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of His death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put to death.~Ephesians 2:16 NLT

24. Godly Teachers~Godly teachers train us to follow after the Lord wholeheartedly. By their example, we're taught how to grow into the men and women of God we're called to be. Thank God for every single one who's had an impact on you!

31. Do-Overs~Do you wish you could go back and start the day over? Have a second chance? Praise God...the Christian life is full of do-overs! our forgiving God gives us second, third and fourth chances!

43. The First Christmas Lights Of The Season~As you see tiny lights twinkle against the evening sky, be reminded of that night so long ago when a star shone over Bethlehem, lighting the birth of the eternal King.

59. Laundry~Piles of laundry are proof of God's provision for us--we have clothes to wear! Next time you stare at a pile of dirty shirts, pants, socks and underwear, whisper a prayer of thanks that God provides for your needs.

65. Freedom To Worship~There are so many places around the globe where worship is illegal, forcing believers to take their celebrations underground. What a blessing it is to be able to worship when and where we want! Thank God for this freedom, and while you're at it, pray for those who aren't allowed to worship freely.

For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.~Galatians 5:13 NLT

77. My Home~Maybe the walls of your home need a fresh coat of paint or the roof needs replacing. Perhaps your furniture is outdated or worn. In the grand scheme of things, those things don't matter at all, do they? God has blessed you with a safe haven. A place to go, away from the troubles of the world. Now, that's definitely something to be thankful for.

Then the king said to the man of God, "Come home with me and refresh yourself, and I will give you a reward."~1 Kings 13:7 NKJV

86. Things That Didn't Happen~How many times have you asked God to make something happen, only to thank Him later that you didn't get what you asked for? Maybe He kept you safe from an accident or a bad relationship situation. We need to thank God not only for the things that happen in our lives, but also for the things that don't!

I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.~Psalm 40:1-2 NIV

90. Chocolate~Ah, what a gift from on high! Chocolate, the soother of the soul. The melt-in-your mouth remedy for what ails you. Does it seem like a silly thing to be thankful for? It's not! All good gifts come from above...and chocolate is one of the best!

109. Pen, Ink and Paper~Whether you love the feel of a pen in your hand or like to type e-mails, it's a blessing to be able to communicate with others. Today, use the gift of writing to pen notes to friends, thanking them for the role they've played in your life.

118. Those Who Have Gone Before Us~Make a list of those people who have paved the way, bringing you to where you are in your spiritual life. Then go through that list, thanking God for each and every one. For the ones who've gone on to be with the Lord, spend some special time reflecting on the special role they played in your life.

Lord, You always know just the right people to send into my life. You've arranged my parents, my Sunday school teachers, and my coworkers. Thank you for those who've gone before me. Amen!

125. Leftover Turkey After Thanksgiving~The turkey--all fifteen to twenty pounds of it--signifies not just God's provision, but also His overwhelming, undeserved abundance. It's more than enough. Plenty for one meal...and plenty for days to come. Now that's something to be thankful for.

137. Life's Hard Lessons~Do you ever feel like you got your degree at the school of hard knocks? Instead of bemoaning the fact that you've made a few mistakes, take the time to thank God for the lessons He's taught you...even if they were acquired the hard way.

143. Best Friends~Best friends lift your arms when you feel you can't go on. They offer words of encouragement and support when you're down. And they speak truth, even when it's hard to hear. Everything is better when you've got someone at your side.

Lord, thank you so much for my best friends. I don't know where I'd be without them! Bless them today, Father, and show me how I can be the best possible friend to them. Amen.

158. Celebrations~Oh, how we wait for the special days on the calendar to arrive! Whether it's a birthday, a holiday, or a celebration of an achievement, these times allow us to reconnect with friends and family in a special way. Find something new to celebrate today!

"You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands."~Isaiah 55:12 NIV

161. Exercise~Ah, exercise! It lifts us from our humdrum state, gets our blood pumpkin, and strengthens us, inside and out. Whether you're making the rounds at the gym, riding your bike, or jogging in the park, take the time to thank God for the gift of exercise. It's a gift He hopes you'll use...often!

178. Perseverance~As you go through seasons of perseverance, hold tight to God's promises. Continue to praise Him. Those who are watching will learn a lot by seeing how you handle this season!

189. Friends And Loved Ones I Have Yet To Meet~Have you ever thought about the friends and loved ones you haven't even met yet? Who will they be? What impact will they have on your life? The Lord brings people together in the most wonderful ways--at church, at work, in neighborhoods, in families.

Lord, it's exciting to think of the people I will be close to in the future. I don't know them yet, but one day we'll be the best of friends. Thank you for the friends I have now...and the ones I have yet to meet. Amen.

199. I'm Not In Charge!~The minute you let go of the control you have in your life, the minute you acknowledge that God alone is in charge, the sooner He's able to move on your behalf. You were never meant to handle this on your own, anyway. He knows best how--and when--to intervene in the lives of His children.

The Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me."~Matthew 28:18 NIV

That is only 20 reasons out of all 199. Powerful right? It really puts things in perspective for me. We are all going to have bad things--big and small--happen in our lives. Even when really big things are going on in our lives--health issues, grieving a loved one, marital problems, difficult family situations, etc.--God is there for us. That alone is a blessing! Plus, when those big things are going on in our lives, we really need to focus elsewhere for a bit. When we do that, we can gain much perspective. That is a good thing!

I pray that each and every one of my friends, family, and blog readers will be able to focus on the blessings. They are there. I promise! :-)

Christmas CD

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Every Christmas I buy a new Christmas CD. This way I can build up my Christmas music collection without going broke. ;-) This year I bought Travis Cottrell's CD called 'Ring the Bells.'

I heard Travis sing at the Beth Moore conference, which is actually where I bought this CD, and I really enjoyed his voice. God gave him a gift, and I am glad to see he is using it to honor God. Who wouldn't want to support that?

If you want to hear some of the songs on this CD, just click on the picture above.

What is your favorite Christmas CD? Do you have a favorite Christmas song? Do share!

Food 4 Thought Friday

2009-11-13T07:13:00.003-06:00

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Breakfast~You wouldn't be caught dead, where? You will never find me jumping out of an airplane. Ever!!!

Lunch~Was there ever a time you were frightened for your life? No time sticks out in my mind.

Dinner~What are you passionate about? I am passionate about Jesus, my family, and my friends. I am also passionate about holidays, reading, and recipes/cookbooks.
Midnight Snack~Have you ever won a trophy? No! Kind of sad. I was just never into sports or anything where you would win a trophy. My two oldest have already gotten trophies. Josh got one for basketball camp this past summer, and Ali got one for participating in JFL cheerleading. While neither of them technically "won" the trophy, I am hoping that the positive message sent by a trophy will help them want to stay active in sports.

Recipe of the week~Instead of your recipe for life, what is it just for this week? In God's eyes, I am worthy!!!
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Play along by clicking on the burger above. You know you want to! ;-)

Friday Fill-Ins

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1. The last band I saw live was Travis Cottrell and the Praise Team at Living Proof Live with Beth Moore last weekend. Awesome music!!

2. What I look forward to most on Thanksgiving is playing games with the family and laughing a ton.

3. My Christmas/holiday shopping is not even started. Ugh!

4. Thoughts of my husband fill my head. I wish he could understand how much I need him to be here for me...physically and emotionally. Why did God make men and women so different? I'm sure there is a good reason. God's reasons are always good.

5. I wish I could wear a smaller size. It's not about the number at all, but I just want to feel better about myself.

6. Bagpipes sound very annoying, in my opinion.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to having the ladies over for a Scentsy/Pampered Chef party, tomorrow my plans include hanging out at home and eating tacos & guacamole for dinner...yum! and Sunday, I want to go to church, relax, and prepare for the following week!

Countdown Begins!

2009-11-12T08:44:00.005-06:00

Only 14 Days until Thanksgiving!! Yahoo!! Our menu is set, I know who is bringing what dishes, and I went and bought 2 new games yesterday.

One of my favorite things about the holidays is that our family plays games. Some of the men don't play, like my husband, but I just call him a Party Pooper! ;-) In the past we have played Trivial Pursuit, Pictionary, Scattergories, and Taboo. I went yesterday and bought Apples to Apples and Catch Phrase.

I look forward to this time because there is lots of laughter and memories are made. Like when my mom and grandma Rose kept cheating. Those silly gooses!! I can't wait for the day when all the kids are old enough to play too.

What does your family do for fun at the holidays? Do you play games, sing songs, or just talk non-stop? Something else? Do share! :-)

Thankful Thursday

2009-11-12T08:06:00.000-06:00

I have so much to be thankful for. We all do! This week I am reflecting back on last weekend, and I am superty-duper thankful!!

I went to see Beth Moore live. All I can say is she rocks! God has given her such a gift. He uses her to speak to the hearts of women, and I am so thankful for this.

I am especially thankful for two things she said at the conference. The first one is that we shouldn't give up hope. We need to continue to have faith. We need to continue to rely on God. Too often I try to take things into my own hands. Not a good thing!

She also said that we have to let grudges go. I am pretty good at letting them go, but I am human. Sometimes I struggle. She talked about how you are in bondage to that person if you don't let it go. The mental picture of myself handcuffed to certain people has really helped me work through these issues.

Have I said that Beth Moore rocks??? She does! However, the conference wasn't just great because of her. It was also great because of the wonderful women that I was with. Here is a picture of us...

From left to right we have Tina, Valerie, myself, Karen & Carrie. Our friend Susan isn't pictured. She could not attend on Saturday because the mother of a good friend of hers passed away. These women are wonderful Godly women. They are encouraging, kind, compassionate, and just plain fun! I am so thankful that God has placed each of these lovely women in my life.

Thank you God for all that you do for me! Thank you for providing me with a wonderful support system....Beth Moore & friends. I promise to try to be a support for other women. :-)

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Okay, this is a shameless plug! I started a meme. It is played on Tuesdays, and it is called 'Be a Blessing.' You can read about it here and here. It is an encouraging and positive Christian meme, and I really hope that you will play along in the future. :-)