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Friday, December 21, 2012
Friday, November 30, 2012
Our Magical Trip
How does one begin writing again when it has been so long? Do I condense two months of fullness into one blog post? Or perhaps, I re-start and introduce myself anew. There have been so many times when I have wanted to sit down and record the amazing things that are happening around me. But life is moving so quickly right now that I have had to set my writing on the back burner. Sometimes I wish I had a special camera that would turn our stories into writing for me. You know, one that would sort of record life exactly as it was happening, on paper? But I digress...
Now that Thanksgiving has gone by, (but thankfulness remains) I can put into motion preparations for Christmas. My husband came home Tuesday and decided it was time to put up the tree. It was a joy to watch him work with the kids to put it all together and decorate it. (Yes, we have a fake tree.) This weekend all I have to do is put out a few more decorations around the house and we'll be good to go!
Speaking of decorations, I don't think I could forgive myself if I didn't at least record a little blurb about our trip to Disneyland this month. We spent 7 wonderful days in beautiful CA the second week of November. LR got to spend her 8th birthday at California Adventure. :) We spent two days there, one day at Universal Studios, and two days at Disneyland. (With one down day to rest and recoup in the middle.) They start putting up Christmas decorations at all the parks there Nov. 1, and it is BEAUTIFUL! They also have the Christmas parade at Disneyland every evening. Plus, they turn the Princess Castle into an ice castle at night and then it snows down Main Street! The kids LOVED that!
It really was a magical trip. The kids' Nana, an Aunt, and an Uncle all came along for the ride and it was pure fun. We've been saving up for this trip for three years now so that we could pay cash for everything. I have to say, it was worth the wait! Our kids were all at the perfect ages. They range from 6-11 and they all had a blast. Even our youngest only had a couple of rides he couldn't go on and he was a trooper to go on all the "big kid" rides with us. It was worth the trip just to see their reactions to their first time flying.
I could go on and on, but AMAZING pretty much sums it all up in a nutshell.
Well, I should be going for now. I've got lots of things on my to-do list. I hope I'll be able to get back to blogging more again, but I make no promises. Funny, when my kids were small I used to think I'd have MORE time when they were all in school. It doesn't seem to have worked out that way, but it sure is fun!
Have a blessed weekend!
-Melissa
Now that Thanksgiving has gone by, (but thankfulness remains) I can put into motion preparations for Christmas. My husband came home Tuesday and decided it was time to put up the tree. It was a joy to watch him work with the kids to put it all together and decorate it. (Yes, we have a fake tree.) This weekend all I have to do is put out a few more decorations around the house and we'll be good to go!
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| Our Beautiful Tree |
It really was a magical trip. The kids' Nana, an Aunt, and an Uncle all came along for the ride and it was pure fun. We've been saving up for this trip for three years now so that we could pay cash for everything. I have to say, it was worth the wait! Our kids were all at the perfect ages. They range from 6-11 and they all had a blast. Even our youngest only had a couple of rides he couldn't go on and he was a trooper to go on all the "big kid" rides with us. It was worth the trip just to see their reactions to their first time flying.
I could go on and on, but AMAZING pretty much sums it all up in a nutshell.
Well, I should be going for now. I've got lots of things on my to-do list. I hope I'll be able to get back to blogging more again, but I make no promises. Funny, when my kids were small I used to think I'd have MORE time when they were all in school. It doesn't seem to have worked out that way, but it sure is fun!
Have a blessed weekend!
-Melissa
Thursday, September 27, 2012
A Priceless Gift
Sometimes I just need a little reminding to have a positive attitude. Rachel Anne over at Home Sanctuary had perfect timing this morning with her post Glass Half Full.
In her post she says "Learning to have a positive attitude is a gift we can give our children...and is a gift we can give ourselves." A gift. Encouraging words. Understanding. Grace. All gifts that are priceless, wrapped in selfless love. Gifts designed by the Master of giving.
Mornings aren't always the most positive environment around here with 5 kids getting ready for school. Take this morning, for example. I was having a tough morning, being stretched to the limit. One of my boys came to me and said he was sorry for making me mad. I was only trying to teach him that he needs to be responsible for some things on his own in the morning because Mommy can't do it all. I think all he heard was "I'm mad at you because you're making my life difficult." I hugged him and told him I wasn't mad and that I was sorry for coming across that way.
Am I sorry for trying to teach him to help himself in the morning? No. I am, however, sorry for the way I presented the lesson. It must have been in my tone of voice. Or maybe the words I used. Perhaps it was just the frown on my face. I am so thankful that he was brave enough to approach me. My heart sinks to think that I could hurt one of my children with my words. I'm so glad they are quick to forgive me.
I am going to try to have a more positive attitude in the morning. Hopefully it will be contageous... a gift worth wrapping and unwrapping over and over again.
"Let all that you do be done in love." -1Corinthians 16:14
In her post she says "Learning to have a positive attitude is a gift we can give our children...and is a gift we can give ourselves." A gift. Encouraging words. Understanding. Grace. All gifts that are priceless, wrapped in selfless love. Gifts designed by the Master of giving.
Mornings aren't always the most positive environment around here with 5 kids getting ready for school. Take this morning, for example. I was having a tough morning, being stretched to the limit. One of my boys came to me and said he was sorry for making me mad. I was only trying to teach him that he needs to be responsible for some things on his own in the morning because Mommy can't do it all. I think all he heard was "I'm mad at you because you're making my life difficult." I hugged him and told him I wasn't mad and that I was sorry for coming across that way.
Am I sorry for trying to teach him to help himself in the morning? No. I am, however, sorry for the way I presented the lesson. It must have been in my tone of voice. Or maybe the words I used. Perhaps it was just the frown on my face. I am so thankful that he was brave enough to approach me. My heart sinks to think that I could hurt one of my children with my words. I'm so glad they are quick to forgive me.
I am going to try to have a more positive attitude in the morning. Hopefully it will be contageous... a gift worth wrapping and unwrapping over and over again.
"Let all that you do be done in love." -1Corinthians 16:14
Friday, August 17, 2012
Summer Moments
It seems my blog has turned into a once a month thing. While I don't mind that it has taken a seat on the back burner this Summer, I do miss sitting down and writing once or twice a week. When I started my blog it was to share the Small Things that I do on a daily basis to create Sancuary in my home. I still partipate with Rachel Anne and other Company Girls over at Home Sanctuary. I am encouraged on a regular basis by Rachel's posts and the comments that I read there. Like today... I stopped in for Company Girl Coffee, and I was happy to be greeted by a photo of Flash, the Donkey, just hanging out enjoying life.
Sometimes, as I have witnessed this Summer, life just seems to move along at a pace so steady that you don't have time to stop and do the things you love the most. Although this won't be the longest blog post ever, I'm taking a tip from good old Flash and Simply Live in the Moment. Or, if you'll allow it, maybe several moments. I want to share a few of my favorite pictures from this Summer so far.
Thanks for stopping in for coffee. Have a great weekend!
Sometimes, as I have witnessed this Summer, life just seems to move along at a pace so steady that you don't have time to stop and do the things you love the most. Although this won't be the longest blog post ever, I'm taking a tip from good old Flash and Simply Live in the Moment. Or, if you'll allow it, maybe several moments. I want to share a few of my favorite pictures from this Summer so far.
Thanks for stopping in for coffee. Have a great weekend!
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| Watching the gang play "Peanuts" at the Larson Family Reunion...crazy! We "camped" at Camp Kawanis for 4 days and spent time getting to know extended family members making great memories. |
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| The kids with my mom in front of her house in Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island |
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| Me with my 98yr old Grandma. She still lives on her own...I just love her spirit!!!! |
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| The kids climbing the stairs up to the top of the light house at Ft. Casey |
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| On the beach at Deception Pass State Park. I was born and raised on Whidbey Island and have crossed that bridge too many times to count! |
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| Climbing at West Beach |
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| Playing in the water |
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| JS's 10th birthday and MUD! |
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| RL's 11th Birthday Breakfast |
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| Swimming...LOTS of Swimming this Summer!!! |
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Just A Few Thoughts
Is it the end of June already? My how time flies! Too much has been going on to tell it all here. How about a re-cap of the last week? This past week I was...
Blessed... with a visit from my mom and sister. We've lived here for a year now and this is the first time my mom has been able to come out and see our new home and the Dollar Plus store. I was so excited to have both of them here and thankful that my sister would make the trip only a day after she finished up teaching for the year. The visit ended all too quickly.
Encouraged... by a quote that I read in my "Praying God's Word Day by Day" devotional. It read "Walking consistently does not mean walking perfectly. It means we may stumble, but we will not fall." When I lose my footing, the Lord is sure to come along and set my feet on solid ground again.
"I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me and heard my cry.
He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay,
And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm." (Psalm 40:1-2)
Frustrated... that my dog keeps digging out of our yard and I now have to keep him on a chain when he is alone. Remember that story, the Pokey Little Puppy? That's what my dog reminds me of. He just has to get out into the wide wide world and see what's out there!
Joyful... because my kids had so much fun at VBS this week. They came home singing all kinds of fun songs and telling stories about what they learned. It was a great experience for them. They made lots of new friends and learned many good lessons from the Word.
Weary... from a long month of events, travelling, and excitement. I anticipate a busy July, where the fun will continue. Many parents pack the Summer full with sports, swimming lessons, camping, and other events, but not me. We plan one major trip (in August) and the rest of the Summer seems to fill itself up without my help. We have company coming next week for the 4th of July and there are 3 birthdays and a family reunion plus our anniversary in July. I try to take advantage of every moment of down time!
Reflective... because we have been here for almost exactly a year now. It has been a good year. The kids love their school and have made a lot of good friends. I am so thankful for this house and for the family that lives here. Over all, we are very blessed.
I guess that brings me full circle to blessed! I hope that you also feel blessed by the Lord in this journey of life.
~Melissa
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ." -Ephesians 1:3
Blessed... with a visit from my mom and sister. We've lived here for a year now and this is the first time my mom has been able to come out and see our new home and the Dollar Plus store. I was so excited to have both of them here and thankful that my sister would make the trip only a day after she finished up teaching for the year. The visit ended all too quickly.
Encouraged... by a quote that I read in my "Praying God's Word Day by Day" devotional. It read "Walking consistently does not mean walking perfectly. It means we may stumble, but we will not fall." When I lose my footing, the Lord is sure to come along and set my feet on solid ground again.
"I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me and heard my cry.
He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay,
And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm." (Psalm 40:1-2)
Frustrated... that my dog keeps digging out of our yard and I now have to keep him on a chain when he is alone. Remember that story, the Pokey Little Puppy? That's what my dog reminds me of. He just has to get out into the wide wide world and see what's out there!
Joyful... because my kids had so much fun at VBS this week. They came home singing all kinds of fun songs and telling stories about what they learned. It was a great experience for them. They made lots of new friends and learned many good lessons from the Word.
Weary... from a long month of events, travelling, and excitement. I anticipate a busy July, where the fun will continue. Many parents pack the Summer full with sports, swimming lessons, camping, and other events, but not me. We plan one major trip (in August) and the rest of the Summer seems to fill itself up without my help. We have company coming next week for the 4th of July and there are 3 birthdays and a family reunion plus our anniversary in July. I try to take advantage of every moment of down time!
Reflective... because we have been here for almost exactly a year now. It has been a good year. The kids love their school and have made a lot of good friends. I am so thankful for this house and for the family that lives here. Over all, we are very blessed.
I guess that brings me full circle to blessed! I hope that you also feel blessed by the Lord in this journey of life.
~Melissa
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ." -Ephesians 1:3
Friday, June 1, 2012
10 Things I've Been Meaning to Write About...
There are some things that have been on my mind but I just haven't had the time to sit down and write about them. I figured I'd better do a little catching up before I forget what a fun and busy Spring we've had this year! Rather than put them in 10 separate posts, I've grouped them all together here.
1. The Spelling Bee - BC (my third grader) asked if he could compete in the city-wide spelling be this year. We signed him up and he studied the list of words that they were given, anticipating the big day. They divided the 3rd grade contestants into two groups, (of about 18 entries each) and the top two contestants from each group then had a "Spell-Off." I am so proud to say that BC made it into the Spell-Off and then got 3rd place over all. What an achievement!
2. Balloon Stampede - Every year Walla Walla has a weekend event called Balloon Stampede where several hot air balloons take off in the morning and land at night. We went to the "Night Glow" portion of the weekend and watched 9 hot air balloons being blown up and then light their fires to show the beautiful colors/pictures on them in the dark. So much fun!
3. My Happy Mother's Day - This year for Mother's Day all I wanted to do was NOTHING! I slept in and the kids really stepped up and let me just relax. I also received several precious gifts that they made for me at school, a giant Mother's Day card from all, and a special Mother's Day balloon. (Which we sold over 200 of in our store this year.)
4. Registering my baby for Kindergarten - If anyone knows me or you've read some of my other posts, I am the mother of 5. Next year, my baby goes into kindergarten. I have had the joy of having him at home with me during the school hours all to myself for 2 years now. I sure am going to miss taking him to work and playing with him around the house during the day. I can't believe he's all grown up and ready for school. *Tear, Sniff*
5. Explorers - BC was tested and got into a program called "Explorers" next year. In grade school it is Math and Science based and he will be bused to another school twice a week to study some advanced topics. We went and viewed some of this year's science projects and he is super excited for next year. I just know he's going to love the program.
6. Spring Assembly - I went to the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade Spring concert. RL had a guitar part with some of her peers in one of the songs. She practiced so hard and really hard and loves playing the guitar. We may have to further explore that passion! JS had a recorder part in the 4th grade song with some of his other friends. By the time the concert came around, he had that part perfected! Each grade had a song where they did a little dance. It was BC's first day back after being home sick with the flu all week, but he was a trooper and put on a good smile for "Lean on Me." They do some really fun things at our grade school. I have been impressed this year with the staff and the curriculum.
7. The Break-In - We suffered our first burglary to our store last week. The crazy part is that it wasn't the first attempt. No, just three days before someone had tried to break in the back door, but there is a bar on it. I won't go into details here for obvious reasons but I will say that it could have been worse. Thankfully, they didn't trash the store. There were two break-ins in the same night. The first one broke the window and the second took advantage of it. It has been a long haul for my husband. The aftermath is ongoing and he's taking care of it all. I sure do love that man!
8. The hole in our back yard - Adventures in home ownership! Since we bought the house "as-is" we purchased a home warranty to fix any problems we might come across our first year here. So far we've had a leaky pipe fixed, a toilet re-set, and a shower valve cleaned out. We found a leak in our main pipe but it is OUTSIDE the house, thus, not covered by our home warranty. Go figure. So we took a plumbers advice and started to dig a 4 ft hole in the front yard to find the leak. My generous husband dug through mostly rock (did I mention how much I love him?) until he thought he found the source. Then this past weekend the kids came running in yelling "Daddy, Daddy, the hole is filling up with water!" Yup. He found it alright! We ended up turning off the water at the main meter at the street and we went without water for 24 hours until we could get a plumber out to fix it. What an adventure. I'm glad we don't live in Pioneer days. Just sayin'.
9. Max, our quirky dog - So we have this little dog named Max. For some reason he doesn't like to drink water out of his water bowl inside. For that reason I keep one outside that I've trained the kids to put fresh water in every day. Last weekend (before we had to shut the water off) we were running the sprinklers and I was outside on our deck reading. One of the sprinklers sounded kind of funny so I went to investigate. Well, to my amusement, Max was standing at the sprinkler, moving his head back and forth, lapping up the water. I laughed so hard! What a funny little dog!
10. My baby girl is going into middle school - RL is turning 11 this Summer. I will officially have my first middle-schooler in the Fall. Where has the time gone? I remember holding her in my arms when she was a baby. She has grown into such a delightful young lady. Last night we went and explored Pioneer Middle School together. (6th-8th grade) She's excited and nervous all at the same time. I can hardly believe we've arrived at middle school.
Speaking of school, we're done for the year on Thursday of next week. We're kicking off our Summer with my Brother-in-Law's wedding. Then we head into all the Summer activities, including 7 birthdays, our wedding anniversary, and a family reunion. It's going to be a great Summer!
Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend everyone!
~Melissa
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| 3rd Grade Spelling Bee |
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| Night Glow |
3. My Happy Mother's Day - This year for Mother's Day all I wanted to do was NOTHING! I slept in and the kids really stepped up and let me just relax. I also received several precious gifts that they made for me at school, a giant Mother's Day card from all, and a special Mother's Day balloon. (Which we sold over 200 of in our store this year.)
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| CD, Me, and Funny LR |
5. Explorers - BC was tested and got into a program called "Explorers" next year. In grade school it is Math and Science based and he will be bused to another school twice a week to study some advanced topics. We went and viewed some of this year's science projects and he is super excited for next year. I just know he's going to love the program.
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| JS on Recorder (red shirt, black shorts) |
7. The Break-In - We suffered our first burglary to our store last week. The crazy part is that it wasn't the first attempt. No, just three days before someone had tried to break in the back door, but there is a bar on it. I won't go into details here for obvious reasons but I will say that it could have been worse. Thankfully, they didn't trash the store. There were two break-ins in the same night. The first one broke the window and the second took advantage of it. It has been a long haul for my husband. The aftermath is ongoing and he's taking care of it all. I sure do love that man!
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| LR & CD Help the Plumber |
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| Max |
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| Me and My Girl RL |
Speaking of school, we're done for the year on Thursday of next week. We're kicking off our Summer with my Brother-in-Law's wedding. Then we head into all the Summer activities, including 7 birthdays, our wedding anniversary, and a family reunion. It's going to be a great Summer!
Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend everyone!
~Melissa
Friday, May 4, 2012
Company Girl Coffee 5.4.12
Today's Small Thing is to come up with "Creature Comfort" for each of the five senses. Since I was already going to share about our guest room here on my blog today, I decided to take the idea of having company over and run with it.
Sight: Our guest room has a new, fresh coat of paint! We went with two colors, both in the warm grey family. I am going to finish one of my Grandmother's old dressers to place in there and my husband is bringing home a painting to bring it all together. Just in time to have company over this weekend! Yay!
Smell: Chili in the crockpot for dinner tonight! I will be making corn bread to go with it. This meal always fills my kitchen with irresistible aromas!
Taste: Hmm...maybe I should have saved the chili for this one! :) I'm always up for a good chocolate and I have some Frangos hidden away for a rainy day. Yum!
Touch: Hugs and more hugs for our friends that are coming to visit! I haven't seen them since January so they are missed and I am really looking forward to their stay.
Sound: There will be lots of laughter going on this weekend as our children play with their children and the adults visit and play board games.
I love to play hostess and make our guests feel at home. We've known them for years and they are like family to us.
Have a blessed weekend everyone! Thanks for joining me for coffee today!
~Melissa
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| Before |
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| After |
Smell: Chili in the crockpot for dinner tonight! I will be making corn bread to go with it. This meal always fills my kitchen with irresistible aromas!
Taste: Hmm...maybe I should have saved the chili for this one! :) I'm always up for a good chocolate and I have some Frangos hidden away for a rainy day. Yum!
Touch: Hugs and more hugs for our friends that are coming to visit! I haven't seen them since January so they are missed and I am really looking forward to their stay.
Sound: There will be lots of laughter going on this weekend as our children play with their children and the adults visit and play board games.
I love to play hostess and make our guests feel at home. We've known them for years and they are like family to us.
Have a blessed weekend everyone! Thanks for joining me for coffee today!
~Melissa
Monday, April 30, 2012
Psalm 103 - Bless the Lord, O My Soul!
This psalm renewed my spirits this morning. I hope you are encouraged by it too.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And forget none of His benefits;
Who pardons all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases;
Who redeems your life from the pit,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion;
Who satisfies your years with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
The LORD performs righteous deeds
And judgments for all who are oppressed.
He made known His ways to Moses,
His acts to the sons of Israel.
The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness.
He will not always strive with us,
Nor will He keep His anger forever.
He has not dealt with us according to our sins,
Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him.
As far as the east is from the west,
So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
Just as a father has compassion on his children,
So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.
For He Himself knows our frame;
He is mindful that we are but dust.
As for man, his days are like grass;
As a flower of the field, so he flourishes.
When the wind has passed over it, it is no more,
And its place acknowledges it no longer.
But the lovingkindness of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him,
And His righteousness to children’s children,
To those who keep His covenant
And remember His precepts to do them.
The LORD has established His throne in the heavens,
And His sovereignty rules over all.
Bless the LORD, you His angels,
Mighty in strength, who perform His word,
Obeying the voice of His word!
Bless the LORD, all you His hosts,
You who serve Him, doing His will.
Bless the LORD, all you works of His,
In all places of His dominion;
Bless the LORD, O my soul!
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And forget none of His benefits;
Who pardons all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases;
Who redeems your life from the pit,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion;
Who satisfies your years with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
The LORD performs righteous deeds
And judgments for all who are oppressed.
He made known His ways to Moses,
His acts to the sons of Israel.
The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness.
He will not always strive with us,
Nor will He keep His anger forever.
He has not dealt with us according to our sins,
Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him.
As far as the east is from the west,
So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
Just as a father has compassion on his children,
So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.
For He Himself knows our frame;
He is mindful that we are but dust.
As for man, his days are like grass;
As a flower of the field, so he flourishes.
When the wind has passed over it, it is no more,
And its place acknowledges it no longer.
But the lovingkindness of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him,
And His righteousness to children’s children,
To those who keep His covenant
And remember His precepts to do them.
The LORD has established His throne in the heavens,
And His sovereignty rules over all.
Bless the LORD, you His angels,
Mighty in strength, who perform His word,
Obeying the voice of His word!
Bless the LORD, all you His hosts,
You who serve Him, doing His will.
Bless the LORD, all you works of His,
In all places of His dominion;
Bless the LORD, O my soul!
Sunday, April 29, 2012
The Playroom!
We have this little room above our garage that immediately became the kids' playroom when we moved in last Summer. Because it is not heated, it got a little neglected over the Winter. Every time someone would go to put something away, it would just get tossed in there instead of put back in its place. That's how it ended up like this...
For the past two weekends I have asked the kids to give me an hour a day to work on the mess. At first, it was really hard to know where to begin. With some loving direction, they sorted, organized, threw out trash, and finally got it all clean. Now it looks like this...
I'm so extremely proud of my kiddos for a job well done! Just in time to enjoy it with company next weekend! Way to go!
I could still use one more set of shelves in there for storage, but that'll have to wait. Garage sale season will soon be upon us and I'll keep my eye out for just what I need.
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| Before |
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| You can see the floor! |
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| Games, Craft Supplies and Puzzles |
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| Reading and Drawing Corner |
I could still use one more set of shelves in there for storage, but that'll have to wait. Garage sale season will soon be upon us and I'll keep my eye out for just what I need.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Full to the Measure
"For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace."
-John 1:16
I love this verse!
Paul uses this same word "fullness," in Ephesians 3:14-19, when talking about the love of Christ. In both cases, the greek root word is pleroma - definition - fullness, fulfillment, completion (Strongs concordance 4138)
"For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." (Emphasis mine.)
Filled to the measure. What does that mean to you? To me, that means never empty. Christ's love never runs out. Out of His fullness we have all received. And there is more where that came from. Grace upon grace. We have eternal access to this power, this love, that strengthens us and fills us up on a daily basis.
That, my friend, is a love worth celebrating!
May you be strengthened out of His glorious riches today,
~Melissa
-John 1:16
I love this verse!
Paul uses this same word "fullness," in Ephesians 3:14-19, when talking about the love of Christ. In both cases, the greek root word is pleroma - definition - fullness, fulfillment, completion (Strongs concordance 4138)
"For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." (Emphasis mine.)
Filled to the measure. What does that mean to you? To me, that means never empty. Christ's love never runs out. Out of His fullness we have all received. And there is more where that came from. Grace upon grace. We have eternal access to this power, this love, that strengthens us and fills us up on a daily basis.
That, my friend, is a love worth celebrating!
May you be strengthened out of His glorious riches today,
~Melissa
Friday, April 20, 2012
April Flowers
.JPG) |
| FFA Wa-High Greenhouse |
Today's Small Thing over at Home Sanctuary is to celebrate your history by finding an object in (or around) your home that brings a sweet memory to mind.
The above picture is what came to mind when Rachel Anne talked about sweet memories. It's been 25 years since we closed the doors to our store, but the memories will remain in my heart forever. Now I have children of my own, and I love to take them with me to our Dollar Plus store. They help out in any way they can and we are making memories of our own. I hope that one day, they will look back and smile on these days with fond memories of us building something together.
Why not join us for Company Girl coffee today and share some sweet memories of your own?
Blessings,
~Melissa
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Rachel Anne Ridge Art and Home
My wonderful friend, blogger, and artist, Rachel Anne Ridge is having an open house over at her new website this week! You can visit her over at www.rachelanneridge.com and view all of her beautiful work. In addition, she is running a special this week, through Monday that gives 15% your purchase of a canvas, and if your order is over $100, shipping is free! Use code OPENHOUSE.
Her canvases are an expression of her faith and would make a great addition to any home. I have one of her originals hanging on my wall that I won several years ago at Home Sanctuary and she is having another giveaway in honor of launching her new business. You can get the details here.
Whether it's a piece for your own home, or a gift for a friend or family, you'll love what you see at Rachel Anne Ridge Art and Home, so let's get shopping!
Her canvases are an expression of her faith and would make a great addition to any home. I have one of her originals hanging on my wall that I won several years ago at Home Sanctuary and she is having another giveaway in honor of launching her new business. You can get the details here.
Whether it's a piece for your own home, or a gift for a friend or family, you'll love what you see at Rachel Anne Ridge Art and Home, so let's get shopping!
Friday, April 6, 2012
Spring Break
This week we're on Spring Break. We spent 5 days on the West side of the mountains with family. Even though it was raining most of the time, we still had lots of fun. We stayed one night at my sister's house, and three nights at my mom's.
We arrived home yesterday, just before my DH got home. The kids were so happy to see daddy pull in the driveway, they didn't even let him get out of the car before giving him huge hugs! :) I kept forgetting my camera everywhere we went, but here are a few photos.
We arrived home yesterday, just before my DH got home. The kids were so happy to see daddy pull in the driveway, they didn't even let him get out of the car before giving him huge hugs! :) I kept forgetting my camera everywhere we went, but here are a few photos.
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| View from Grandma's House |
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| Me, My Sister, and my Grandma |
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| Cousins with Great Gram |
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| Indoor recreation - Coloring Grandma's table cloth |
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| Fields of Daffodils |
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| Then we came home to this! |
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| Is this Spring Break, or Winter Break? |
Friday, March 23, 2012
A Foundation that Lasts
What's a girl have to do to find the right foundation? There are so many brands out there, and then within those brands, there are so many choices. You have to be careful to buy the right color that blends with your skin tone. Then there's foundations for dry skin, oily skin, old skin, spotty skin and more. There's liquid foundation, tinted moisturizer, and perfect match. With all of the choices out there, it's no wonder that I just don't wear it at all.
But I'm not just talking about makeup here. In fact, I'd like to address a different foundation all together. A foundation that lasts beyond any other.
Jesus talked about foundation in Luke 6:46-49:
"Why do you call Me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. But the one who has heard and has not acted accordingly, is like a man who built a house on the ground without any foundation; and the torrent burst against it and immediately it collapsed, and the ruin of that house was great."
There are three things I'd like to point out here that lead to a solid foundation in Christ.
1. First you have to come to Jesus. Have you accepted Jesus into your heart as Savior? If not, I would encourage you to do so. Romans 3:23 says "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Accepting Christ into our heart is the way we receive forgiveness for our sins. Revelation 3:20 says "Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me." All you have to do is say a simple prayer and invite Him in.
2. Hear His words. Reading God's Word on a regular basis helps us grow. My kids are in Awanas and one of their Discovery lessons was about why God gave us the Bible. There are many reasons (I won't go into them all here), but one of them is so that we can know how to live. Psalm 86:11 says "Teach me Your way, O LORD, and I will walk in Your truth; Give me and undivided heart, That I may fear Your name."
3. Act on His words. James 1:22-24 says "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was." We can't just read His Word, we have to apply it to our lives on a daily basis. We have to allow it to change us, making us more like Christ.
Come, Hear, Act. These are the three invitations of Jesus in this passage. When we do these things, we will build a foundation that will last forever. A foundation that will not be shaken.
But I'm not just talking about makeup here. In fact, I'd like to address a different foundation all together. A foundation that lasts beyond any other.
Jesus talked about foundation in Luke 6:46-49:
"Why do you call Me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. But the one who has heard and has not acted accordingly, is like a man who built a house on the ground without any foundation; and the torrent burst against it and immediately it collapsed, and the ruin of that house was great."
There are three things I'd like to point out here that lead to a solid foundation in Christ.
1. First you have to come to Jesus. Have you accepted Jesus into your heart as Savior? If not, I would encourage you to do so. Romans 3:23 says "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Accepting Christ into our heart is the way we receive forgiveness for our sins. Revelation 3:20 says "Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me." All you have to do is say a simple prayer and invite Him in.
2. Hear His words. Reading God's Word on a regular basis helps us grow. My kids are in Awanas and one of their Discovery lessons was about why God gave us the Bible. There are many reasons (I won't go into them all here), but one of them is so that we can know how to live. Psalm 86:11 says "Teach me Your way, O LORD, and I will walk in Your truth; Give me and undivided heart, That I may fear Your name."
3. Act on His words. James 1:22-24 says "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was." We can't just read His Word, we have to apply it to our lives on a daily basis. We have to allow it to change us, making us more like Christ.
Come, Hear, Act. These are the three invitations of Jesus in this passage. When we do these things, we will build a foundation that will last forever. A foundation that will not be shaken.
Psalm 62:6-8
He only is my rock and my salvation,
My stronghold; I shall not be shaken.
On God my salvation and my glory rest;
The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.
Trust in Him at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us.
My stronghold; I shall not be shaken.
On God my salvation and my glory rest;
The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.
Trust in Him at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Rainy Day Fun
The sun did not shine.
It was too wet to play.
So we sat in the house
All that cold, cold, wet day."
-The Cat in the Hat, by Dr. Seuss
Here's a little of what happens at our house on a rainy day...
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| A little 3-D entertainment |
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| Monster Cars and Lincoln Logs |
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| Our very own book fair |
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| Reading Time |
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| Squishies vs. Ninjas |
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| Ninja's Prevail! |
Monday, March 19, 2012
Menu Monday
It's been a while since I've done Menu Monday again, so I figure it's about time. One of these days I'll become more organized and store all my menus and recipes in one place. I have about 8 weeks worth of menus plus grocery lists in a binder from one year when I got really organized. I'm not sure what happened, but I lost my motivation. I guess we all go through seasons!
Here's this week: (I've already been to the grocery store.)
Monday: Crock pot chicken stroganoff over wide egg noodles
Tuesday: Chicken Enchiladas
Wednesday: Sausage Rice Casserole
Thursday: Baked Potato Bar
Friday: Bacon-wrapped Chicken in the crock pot
Saturday: Pizza
Sunday: Leftovers or Breakfast
I'm so excited for Spring, and garden planting! We don't have much room, but tomatoes are a must. Beyond that, I don't know. I am anxious to see if my grapes come back this year. They should start showing signs of leaves here soon. (Although it's still getting down to freezing temps at night here.)
Anyone else out there starting their Spring planting?
Here's this week: (I've already been to the grocery store.)
Monday: Crock pot chicken stroganoff over wide egg noodles
Tuesday: Chicken Enchiladas
Wednesday: Sausage Rice Casserole
Thursday: Baked Potato Bar
Friday: Bacon-wrapped Chicken in the crock pot
Saturday: Pizza
Sunday: Leftovers or Breakfast
I'm so excited for Spring, and garden planting! We don't have much room, but tomatoes are a must. Beyond that, I don't know. I am anxious to see if my grapes come back this year. They should start showing signs of leaves here soon. (Although it's still getting down to freezing temps at night here.)
Anyone else out there starting their Spring planting?
Friday, March 16, 2012
My March Project(s)
One of my favorite bloggers, Rachel Anne, over at Home Sanctuary, is encouraging her readers to "March to the Finish" in March. At the beginning of this month she asked us to join her in picking one project that has been put off and take steps to getting it done. My first choice was the garage mess that has been haunting me since we moved in last June. We unpacked everything we needed, and the rest of the boxes got stacked in the garage to be gone through at a later date. We also inherited 50 boxes or so of a game that my husband created with his best friend several years ago. A lot of them sold, but now there is the question of what to do with the ones that didn't.
Anyway, I've made a little progress on emptying out some boxes, getting rid of trash, and general cleaning. My next step will be to start opening up boxes and take a good chunk of what we don't use to a local charity. I wish I could say that I pounded it all out in one weekend, but that would be impossible. I will say that this project inspired me/my husband to work hard last weekend and get some other things off our list.
1. He primed our bold blue guest room to ready it for a fresh coat of paint, hopefully this weekend.
2. We planted some starters for tomatoes and peas.
3. I raked up the massive leaves pile in our front yard, which filled a large waste can and four more bags.
4. My husband sprayed around the outside of the house to rid of the annoying box elder bugs and defend against other pests.
In general, we got a lot accomplished around the house. It was nice to work together as a team and get things marked off our list.
Other things I want to work on this Spring (not necessarily March):
1. Re-paint the boys' dressers and install new hardware.
2. Put a splash of color in my daughter's bedroom.
3. Decorate the downstairs. (There is currently nothing on the walls.)
I suppose I better stop adding things to my list before I get overwhelmed! This house is bigger than our last, so I sometimes have a hard time just keeping up with the general housework, let alone getting extra projects done start to finish.
What projects are currently on your list? Is there something you need to start, or simply put the finishing touches on that you could mark off your list this month? I'd love to know.
Have a great weekend!
~Melissa
Anyway, I've made a little progress on emptying out some boxes, getting rid of trash, and general cleaning. My next step will be to start opening up boxes and take a good chunk of what we don't use to a local charity. I wish I could say that I pounded it all out in one weekend, but that would be impossible. I will say that this project inspired me/my husband to work hard last weekend and get some other things off our list.
1. He primed our bold blue guest room to ready it for a fresh coat of paint, hopefully this weekend.
2. We planted some starters for tomatoes and peas.
3. I raked up the massive leaves pile in our front yard, which filled a large waste can and four more bags.
4. My husband sprayed around the outside of the house to rid of the annoying box elder bugs and defend against other pests.
In general, we got a lot accomplished around the house. It was nice to work together as a team and get things marked off our list.
Other things I want to work on this Spring (not necessarily March):
1. Re-paint the boys' dressers and install new hardware.
2. Put a splash of color in my daughter's bedroom.
3. Decorate the downstairs. (There is currently nothing on the walls.)
I suppose I better stop adding things to my list before I get overwhelmed! This house is bigger than our last, so I sometimes have a hard time just keeping up with the general housework, let alone getting extra projects done start to finish.
What projects are currently on your list? Is there something you need to start, or simply put the finishing touches on that you could mark off your list this month? I'd love to know.
Have a great weekend!
~Melissa
Friday, March 9, 2012
More than Enough
I was reading in Numbers chapter 16 this morning, when I found yet another example of humility demonstrated in Moses' life. There were three men, Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, who were rising up against Moses and stirring up trouble among the tribes. They accused Moses and Aaron of exalting themselves above the rest of God's people and deeming themselves more important than anyone else. Here are a few things about Moses' response that I noticed:
1. First he tried to reason with them. (vs. 4-7)
2. Then he tried to remind them that their God-appointed role was enough. "Then Moses said to Korah, 'Hear now, you sons of Levi, is it not enough for you that the God of Israel has separated you from the rest of the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to Himself, to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to minister to them; and that He has brought you near, Korah, and all your brothers, sons of Levi, with you? And are you seeking for the priesthood also? Therefore you and all your company are gathered together against the LORD; but as for Aaron, who is he that you grumble against him?'"
3. When they continued to speak out against Moses, he burned with a holy anger and asked the Lord not to accept their offering. (vs. 15)
4. When the Lord said he was going to destroy all the people of their tribe, Moses fell on his face and asked him to spare the congregation and only punish the men who were sinning against the Lord. (vs. 22)
5. Moses gave the Lord all the glory for the things He had done. (vs. 28-30)
No wonder Hebrews 3:5 says of Moses "Now Moses was faithful in all His house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken later;"
Priscilla Shirer says of Moses in her book The Resolution for Women "He was called by heaven- an appointment that ordered his priorities, pursuits, and passions. Not perfectly, but persistently."
Moses was far from perfect. He questioned God's intentions several times along the way. But he also knew that he must pursue the calling that God had placed on his life. He knew that he had a role to accept. A part to play in God's grander scheme of things. So he embraced it. Humbly, faithfully, and wholeheartedly.
That's how I want to view God's calling on my life. Passionately, diligently, and without reserve. So that I too, can be considered faithful. Because my God-given assignment in this life is more than enough.
1. First he tried to reason with them. (vs. 4-7)
2. Then he tried to remind them that their God-appointed role was enough. "Then Moses said to Korah, 'Hear now, you sons of Levi, is it not enough for you that the God of Israel has separated you from the rest of the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to Himself, to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to minister to them; and that He has brought you near, Korah, and all your brothers, sons of Levi, with you? And are you seeking for the priesthood also? Therefore you and all your company are gathered together against the LORD; but as for Aaron, who is he that you grumble against him?'"
3. When they continued to speak out against Moses, he burned with a holy anger and asked the Lord not to accept their offering. (vs. 15)
4. When the Lord said he was going to destroy all the people of their tribe, Moses fell on his face and asked him to spare the congregation and only punish the men who were sinning against the Lord. (vs. 22)
5. Moses gave the Lord all the glory for the things He had done. (vs. 28-30)
No wonder Hebrews 3:5 says of Moses "Now Moses was faithful in all His house as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken later;"
Priscilla Shirer says of Moses in her book The Resolution for Women "He was called by heaven- an appointment that ordered his priorities, pursuits, and passions. Not perfectly, but persistently."
Moses was far from perfect. He questioned God's intentions several times along the way. But he also knew that he must pursue the calling that God had placed on his life. He knew that he had a role to accept. A part to play in God's grander scheme of things. So he embraced it. Humbly, faithfully, and wholeheartedly.
That's how I want to view God's calling on my life. Passionately, diligently, and without reserve. So that I too, can be considered faithful. Because my God-given assignment in this life is more than enough.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Follow the Crumb Trail
Good morning! And Welcome to any Company Girls who are visiting from Home Sanctuary! :) This morning I'd like to share a story.
Once apon a time...
Don't worry, I'm not going to tell you a story about a boy and a girl named Hansel and Gretal! What I do have to say, however, does have to do with a crumb trail.
It all began in my coffee mug cupboard. I keep my coffee mugs in a space above my coffee maker, separate from the rest of the dishes. It just makes sense to me. Anyway, the other day I went to grab a mug and noticed it had crumbs around the edges of it. "What?" I thought to myself, "These are supposed to be clean!"
Lo and behold, there were coffee crumbs, (ok, they are technically grounds, not crumbs) there in the cupboard. They must have fallen from the basket that I keep my coffee beans in, on the shelf directly above the mugs. I gently pulled out the mugs and wiped down the surface with a wet cloth, creating a freshly clean space for the mugs. It took me about a minute and a half, but it got me to thinking...where else have I missed lurking crumbs?
A quick look around my kitchen gave me the answer and the idea for today's Small Thing. It's simple. Just "Follow the Crumb Trail." Here are a few suggestions:
Clean the crumb tray in your toaster
Vacuum up the crumbs under the dining room table
Clean the crumbs that collect in the silverware drawer (or maybe that's just my problem!)
Wipe the crumbs off the counters
Wipe the cracker crumbs out of the pantry
Clean the bread crumbs out of the bread drawer (or pantry, or wherever you keep your bread.)
Vacuum the crumbs out of the living room couch/chair cushions
You get the idea. We all have crumbs in our life. Just follow the trail and see where it leads you! Like me, it just might lead you to a happy, crumb-free ending!
Where else do you find crumbs? Let us know!
Once apon a time...
Don't worry, I'm not going to tell you a story about a boy and a girl named Hansel and Gretal! What I do have to say, however, does have to do with a crumb trail.
It all began in my coffee mug cupboard. I keep my coffee mugs in a space above my coffee maker, separate from the rest of the dishes. It just makes sense to me. Anyway, the other day I went to grab a mug and noticed it had crumbs around the edges of it. "What?" I thought to myself, "These are supposed to be clean!"
Lo and behold, there were coffee crumbs, (ok, they are technically grounds, not crumbs) there in the cupboard. They must have fallen from the basket that I keep my coffee beans in, on the shelf directly above the mugs. I gently pulled out the mugs and wiped down the surface with a wet cloth, creating a freshly clean space for the mugs. It took me about a minute and a half, but it got me to thinking...where else have I missed lurking crumbs?
A quick look around my kitchen gave me the answer and the idea for today's Small Thing. It's simple. Just "Follow the Crumb Trail." Here are a few suggestions:
Clean the crumb tray in your toaster
Vacuum up the crumbs under the dining room table
Clean the crumbs that collect in the silverware drawer (or maybe that's just my problem!)
Wipe the crumbs off the counters
Wipe the cracker crumbs out of the pantry
Clean the bread crumbs out of the bread drawer (or pantry, or wherever you keep your bread.)
Vacuum the crumbs out of the living room couch/chair cushions
You get the idea. We all have crumbs in our life. Just follow the trail and see where it leads you! Like me, it just might lead you to a happy, crumb-free ending!
Where else do you find crumbs? Let us know!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
A Love that Matters
This is not a Valentine's post. Not that I am anti-Valentine's Day...I have a Valentine that has loved me faithfully for 17 years now. I even have a special Valentine to give to him, and one for each of my children.
But this post is about something bigger. It's about a love that is deeper, wider, and higher than we can ever imagine. This morning, as I was worshiping before the Lord, I felt a fresh wave of His love flow over me. It was as if He was asking me somewhere in the depths of my heart, "Daughter, do you know how much I love you?" I wondered at His question. How could there be any doubt about how much He loves me? Of course I know! But then it came again..."Do you really know how much I love you?"
Perhaps after this morning I know a little bit more how great His love is for me. That's why I wanted to post about my experience here. Maybe one of you needs to hear today how deeply He loves you. I pray with Paul that you will "know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God." (Ephesians 3:19)
John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."
Now that's a love worth celebrating!
Blessings in Christ,
Melissa
But this post is about something bigger. It's about a love that is deeper, wider, and higher than we can ever imagine. This morning, as I was worshiping before the Lord, I felt a fresh wave of His love flow over me. It was as if He was asking me somewhere in the depths of my heart, "Daughter, do you know how much I love you?" I wondered at His question. How could there be any doubt about how much He loves me? Of course I know! But then it came again..."Do you really know how much I love you?"
Perhaps after this morning I know a little bit more how great His love is for me. That's why I wanted to post about my experience here. Maybe one of you needs to hear today how deeply He loves you. I pray with Paul that you will "know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God." (Ephesians 3:19)
John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."
Now that's a love worth celebrating!
Blessings in Christ,
Melissa
Monday, February 13, 2012
Menu Monday
Oh yeah, it's that kind of Monday. I finally have a moment to sit down and post my menu for the week. I am trying really hard to cook from my pantry as much as possible this month. Any left over grocery money I have at the end of the month will go towards stock piling (freezer/pantry) during an upcoming trip to Costco and Winco with my mother in law. It's a fun day trip for us, about an hour away.
Tonight's meal has already been devoured, cleaned up, and leftovers put neatly in the fridge for when hubby gets home. It was chicken and potatoes with gravy. Yum!
Tuesday: Kari's Mexican Casserole (A favorite)
Wednesday: Unstuffed Shells
Thursday: Omelets
Friday: Parmesan Chicken
Saturday: Chili and cornbread
Sunday: Chicken Fajitas
I'll be making banana bread tomorrow. Anyone have a good raisin bread recipe? My kids love raisin bread, but I don't like how pricey it is in the store.
Have a great week!
~Melissa
Tonight's meal has already been devoured, cleaned up, and leftovers put neatly in the fridge for when hubby gets home. It was chicken and potatoes with gravy. Yum!
Tuesday: Kari's Mexican Casserole (A favorite)
Wednesday: Unstuffed Shells
Thursday: Omelets
Friday: Parmesan Chicken
Saturday: Chili and cornbread
Sunday: Chicken Fajitas
I'll be making banana bread tomorrow. Anyone have a good raisin bread recipe? My kids love raisin bread, but I don't like how pricey it is in the store.
Have a great week!
~Melissa
Friday, February 10, 2012
Valley Fog
This morning as I was driving the kids to school, I couldn't help but think "Is this heavy fog ever going to lift?" And then I remembered that I live in a valley. Allow me to go Wikipedia Weather girl on you for a moment. Valley fog is the result of a temperature inversion caused by heavier cold air settling into a valley, with warmer air passing over the mountains above. With calm conditions, (no wind, like now) it can last for days. And it has. We have been in fog all week. First, it was freezing fog, and now, thankfully the temperature has risen a bit, but it's very low visibility.Sometimes my walk with God bears a striking resemblance to the current weather. There are days, or even weeks, when I feel like I'm stuck in a valley fog. I have limited visibility, but I have to trust that God, like my headlights, will shine enough into the darkness to show me the correct path. This is where it is ever so important that I am in His Word on a regular basis. As Psalm 119:105 says "Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path."
Just like the weather, our current circumstances can change quickly and unexpectedly. A valley fog can roll in out of nowhere, but that doesn't mean that we have to stop moving forward. God is right there with us lighting our path, helping us navigate our way through the fog.
So the next time you find yourself in a valley with the fog rolling in, don't forget to turn on your headlights! In other words, crack open your Bible and let His light shine the way.
Blessings,
Melissa
Friday, February 3, 2012
Spilled Oatmeal, Humble Heart
This morning, as the kids were getting their breakfast, LR spilled her entire bowl of un-cooked oatmeal on the floor. Normally I would respond to that in frustration and shortness. Today I was actually surprised at my own reaction. As tears flowed down her face I reassured her that it was going to be ok and that I knew it was only an accident. I grabbed a roll of paper towels and started to mop up the mess on the cabinets and floor and then I noticed some of it was on her little feet and I began to wipe them gently until the oatmeal was gone. Immediately the story of Jesus washing His disciple's feet came to mind.
When he was done washing their feet He said to them, "You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you." (John 13:13-15)
I don't always respond with the love and tenderness that I did this morning. I often forget about the tiny eyes that are watching me, waiting for my reaction. So what made the difference this morning? I can only give the credit to the One who has washed my feet. He came to earth as a humble servant, and I will do my best to imitate His humility in my life, just as His Word instructs in Philippians 2:5-8.
"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!"
After this morning I will be more aware of little watching eyes. I am thankful that where I fall short, there is grace and forgiveness. For these children are my precious gifts from God and I love them with all my heart.
Blessings,
Melissa
When he was done washing their feet He said to them, "You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you." (John 13:13-15)
I don't always respond with the love and tenderness that I did this morning. I often forget about the tiny eyes that are watching me, waiting for my reaction. So what made the difference this morning? I can only give the credit to the One who has washed my feet. He came to earth as a humble servant, and I will do my best to imitate His humility in my life, just as His Word instructs in Philippians 2:5-8.
"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!"
After this morning I will be more aware of little watching eyes. I am thankful that where I fall short, there is grace and forgiveness. For these children are my precious gifts from God and I love them with all my heart.
Blessings,
Melissa
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Trusting Him Sight-Unseen
I've just been sitting here listening to the rain on my skylights, thinking about the Israelites in the dessert after God brought them out of Egypt. What do rain and the dessert have to do with one another? Well, this morning my quiet time I was reading about how the people were complaining to Moses, even after God had shown His faithfulness and provided miracles on their journey through the dessert time and again. The Bible says that they grumbled against God, "And in their heart they put God to the test by asking food according to their desire." (Psalm 78:18)
Read how He answered them in Psalm 78:21-29
Therefore the LORD heard and was full of wrath;
And a fire was kindled against Jacob
And anger also mounted against Israel,
Because they did not believe in God
And did not trust in His salvation.
Yet He commanded the clouds above
And opened the doors of heaven;
He rained down manna upon them to eat
And gave them food from heaven.
Man did eat the bread of angels;
He sent them food in abundance.
He caused the east wind to blow in the heavens
And by His power He directed the south wind.
When He rained meat upon them like the dust,
Even winged fowl like the sand of the seas,
Then He let them fall in the midst of their camp,
Round about their dwellings.
So they ate and were well filled,
And their desire He gave to them.
Did you see that progression? They complained that they wanted food. God got angry because they didn't believe Him and trust Him for His salvation. And YET (that's the word of the day), and yet He opened up the heavens and caused it to rain down manna to show them, once again, that He provides.
I would love to say that I never grumble. That I am content in every situation and satisfied with the portion of strength and provision that God gives me for each day. But then I would just be lying.
2 Corinthians 9:8 says "God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work." If I believe this promise, which I do, then I can stop worrying about what I need for tomorrow, or the next day, and just be thankful that I have been given enough for today's needs.
I've been reading "The Resolution for Women" by Priscilla Shirer, and she puts it this way in her 1st chapter, Surprisingly Satisfied:
Whatever He's given or not given, He's done for a specific reason-a reason known only to Him perhaps but one you can trust with full confidence, sight unseen. Every decision you need to make, every task you need to accomplish, every relationship you need to navigate, every element of daily life you need to traverse, God has already perfectly matched up with an equivalent-to-overflowing supply of His grace.
That about sums it up for me. My God shall supply all my needs according to His riches and glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19) So this girl is going to gather up her manna for today and trust Him to provide for tomorrow all that I need.
Trusting Him "sight-unseen,"
Melissa
Read how He answered them in Psalm 78:21-29
Therefore the LORD heard and was full of wrath;
And a fire was kindled against Jacob
And anger also mounted against Israel,
Because they did not believe in God
And did not trust in His salvation.
Yet He commanded the clouds above
And opened the doors of heaven;
He rained down manna upon them to eat
And gave them food from heaven.
Man did eat the bread of angels;
He sent them food in abundance.
He caused the east wind to blow in the heavens
And by His power He directed the south wind.
When He rained meat upon them like the dust,
Even winged fowl like the sand of the seas,
Then He let them fall in the midst of their camp,
Round about their dwellings.
So they ate and were well filled,
And their desire He gave to them.
Did you see that progression? They complained that they wanted food. God got angry because they didn't believe Him and trust Him for His salvation. And YET (that's the word of the day), and yet He opened up the heavens and caused it to rain down manna to show them, once again, that He provides.
I would love to say that I never grumble. That I am content in every situation and satisfied with the portion of strength and provision that God gives me for each day. But then I would just be lying.
2 Corinthians 9:8 says "God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work." If I believe this promise, which I do, then I can stop worrying about what I need for tomorrow, or the next day, and just be thankful that I have been given enough for today's needs.
I've been reading "The Resolution for Women" by Priscilla Shirer, and she puts it this way in her 1st chapter, Surprisingly Satisfied:
Whatever He's given or not given, He's done for a specific reason-a reason known only to Him perhaps but one you can trust with full confidence, sight unseen. Every decision you need to make, every task you need to accomplish, every relationship you need to navigate, every element of daily life you need to traverse, God has already perfectly matched up with an equivalent-to-overflowing supply of His grace.
That about sums it up for me. My God shall supply all my needs according to His riches and glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19) So this girl is going to gather up her manna for today and trust Him to provide for tomorrow all that I need.
Trusting Him "sight-unseen,"
Melissa
Monday, January 30, 2012
Menu Monday
Hello and happy Monday! I didn't post my menu last week because I got busy but you'll just have to take my word that I had a menu and I stuck to it. :)
This week as I was planning I noticed that a lot of my pantry items that I like to stock up on are on sale, so I spent a little over my grocery budget for the week. I don't ever feel guilty about that as long as it is a really good deal and I know that it will pay off in the end to buy it now.
For example...
Albertson's had GM cereal on sale AND I have coupons...makes it less than $1.50 for a box of Chex.
Safeway had 93% lean ground beef on sale for $1.99. I am a total lean beef snob so I stocked up, divided it into 1lb portions and put it in my freezer.
Those are just two things. I also bought coffee for an ultra low price because I can't live without my cup of joe in the morning. Yep. I'm a hopeless coffee addict.
And now on to this week's menu:
Monday: Kari's Mexican Casserole
Tuesday: Sweet 'n Sour Chicken
Wednesday: Turkey BLT Quesadillas
Thursday: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Breakfast
Sunday: Pizza!
Well, have a great week all! Hopefully wherever you are, the groundhog won't see his shadow and Spring will come early this year. :)
~Melissa
This week as I was planning I noticed that a lot of my pantry items that I like to stock up on are on sale, so I spent a little over my grocery budget for the week. I don't ever feel guilty about that as long as it is a really good deal and I know that it will pay off in the end to buy it now.
For example...
Albertson's had GM cereal on sale AND I have coupons...makes it less than $1.50 for a box of Chex.
Safeway had 93% lean ground beef on sale for $1.99. I am a total lean beef snob so I stocked up, divided it into 1lb portions and put it in my freezer.
Those are just two things. I also bought coffee for an ultra low price because I can't live without my cup of joe in the morning. Yep. I'm a hopeless coffee addict.
And now on to this week's menu:
Monday: Kari's Mexican Casserole
Tuesday: Sweet 'n Sour Chicken
Wednesday: Turkey BLT Quesadillas
Thursday: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Breakfast
Sunday: Pizza!
Well, have a great week all! Hopefully wherever you are, the groundhog won't see his shadow and Spring will come early this year. :)
~Melissa
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Praying Scripture
I love to read the Psalms. Especially the ones written by David. I pray them over my life. I insert my name to make it more personal. I don't think God minds. In fact, I believe that God loves it when we pray the scriptures over our lives. Here is just one example.
This morning I read Psalm 21:1-2
"O Lord, in Your strength the king will be glad,
And in Your salvation how greatly he will rejoice!
You have given him his heart's desire,
And You have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah."
This is how I pray it to fit me:
"O Lord, in Your strength your daughter will be glad, and in Your salvation how greatly I will rejoice! You have given me my heart's desire, and You have not withheld the request of my lips."
Beth Moore has a book about praying Scripture called Praying God's Word. It walks through the scripture, giving examples of prayers that fit just about every season of life. There is so much power in God's Word. So this girl is going to read it more, claim it boldly, and pray it over my life every chance I get!
Blessings,
Melissa
This morning I read Psalm 21:1-2
"O Lord, in Your strength the king will be glad,
And in Your salvation how greatly he will rejoice!
You have given him his heart's desire,
And You have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah."
This is how I pray it to fit me:
"O Lord, in Your strength your daughter will be glad, and in Your salvation how greatly I will rejoice! You have given me my heart's desire, and You have not withheld the request of my lips."
Beth Moore has a book about praying Scripture called Praying God's Word. It walks through the scripture, giving examples of prayers that fit just about every season of life. There is so much power in God's Word. So this girl is going to read it more, claim it boldly, and pray it over my life every chance I get!
Blessings,
Melissa
Friday, January 20, 2012
Company Girl Coffee
It is 7:30am and my children are very pleased that they get to sleep in due to a two hour delay for school today. It's been an interesting weather week here. Yesterday the kids had a snow day due to freezing rain and snow. The roads were horrible so I'm glad that the school district has the common sense to take the day off. I'm still not sure if two hours will be enough for the roads to defrost a little but it is supposed to get up above freezing and stay there for a couple of days.
How I wish I would have taken a picture of my vehicle before I started chipping away at it yesterday. It was completely frozen over with a coating of ice. It looked like a shiny blue ice cycle with snow on top! I couldn't see how that was good for my van so I worked at the driver side door (for almost an hour) until it came loose. Then I started up the van and let it run while I worked on the rest of the icy windows. I never did get any of the other doors open, but at least I had peace of mind that the van had been run for a while. Of course, it's nice and frozen over again this morning!
It's not even really that cold here. It was in the teens last night but was twenty something most of yesterday. The kids even braved the weather yesterday for a while to help me shovel the walk. They thought it was funny to walk across the "crunchy" snow. Eventually, noses got cold enough that it was time to come in where it was warm. They did lots of reading, (LR likes to line up her stuffed animals and read to them) playing games, and even brought out some toys that hadn't been played with in a while to pass the time. All in all it was a great day.
Well, the troops are starting to stir so I'm going to get to work on breakfast!
Have a great (and hopefully warm, wherever you are) weekend!
~Melissa
Monday, January 16, 2012
Menu Monday
Well, I may not have time for much more lately, but at least I've been trying to be consistent about putting a menu plan together here once a week! It finally snowed last night so went out and enjoyed playing in it with the kids for a while, who have the day off from school for Mr. Luther King Jr. Day. There wasn't very much snow, but LR asked me to help her make a snowman with what we had.
I had a friend request last week's easy lasagna recipe so I'll share it here. It was actually given to me by a friend/co-worker many years ago when I worked at a bank.
Easy Lasagna:
1lb Italian Sausage (I use the kind in a tube)
1 Jar Prego - Traditional
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1 16 oz container ricotta
shredded parmesan
9 cooked lasagna noodles (I cheat and buy mine fresh)
Brown Sausage and Add Prego. Simmer
Layer 3 cooked noodles on bottom of 13x9 pan and cover with sauce mixture.
Layer 3 more noodles.
Spread Ricotta Cheese over noodles and then cover cheese with 1/2 mozzarella and parmesan
Layer 3 more noodles and cover with sauce mixture.
Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Well, maybe it is not the most cost effective, but I like my lasagna to be extra cheesy and the sausage gives it lots of flavor. I look for the sausage on sale and freeze it. I also make two pans so I have one for the freezer. :)
Here's this week's menu:
Monday: Chicken Enchilada Soup in the Crockpot
Tuesday: Stew in the Crockpot
Wednesday: Chicken Stroganoff in the Crockpot
Thursday: Taco Salad
Friday: Mexican Chicken and Rice
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Breakfast
Well, that's what we're eating this week. I have a very small grocery list because most of this is coming out of my pantry and freezer. It's going to be a good week on our grocery budget! :)
Have a great week all!
~Melissa
 |
| Snowy the snowman :) |
Easy Lasagna:
1lb Italian Sausage (I use the kind in a tube)
1 Jar Prego - Traditional
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1 16 oz container ricotta
shredded parmesan
9 cooked lasagna noodles (I cheat and buy mine fresh)
Brown Sausage and Add Prego. Simmer
Layer 3 cooked noodles on bottom of 13x9 pan and cover with sauce mixture.
Layer 3 more noodles.
Spread Ricotta Cheese over noodles and then cover cheese with 1/2 mozzarella and parmesan
Layer 3 more noodles and cover with sauce mixture.
Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Well, maybe it is not the most cost effective, but I like my lasagna to be extra cheesy and the sausage gives it lots of flavor. I look for the sausage on sale and freeze it. I also make two pans so I have one for the freezer. :)
Here's this week's menu:
Monday: Chicken Enchilada Soup in the Crockpot
Tuesday: Stew in the Crockpot
Wednesday: Chicken Stroganoff in the Crockpot
Thursday: Taco Salad
Friday: Mexican Chicken and Rice
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Breakfast
Well, that's what we're eating this week. I have a very small grocery list because most of this is coming out of my pantry and freezer. It's going to be a good week on our grocery budget! :)
Have a great week all!
~Melissa
Monday, January 9, 2012
Menu Monday
Is it Monday again already? The first week of the year sure did go by in a flash. I've already got dinner in the oven for tonight but I haven't had a chance to post yet today. So here's a quick glance at what's for dinner at our house this week!
Monday: Turkey and Bean Burritos
Tuesday: Lemon Chicken Pasta
Wednesday: Easy Lasagna
Thursday: Leftovers
Friday: Chicken and Potatoes
Saturday: Paninis
Sunday: Breakfast
I am really trying hard to stick to my menu plan as closely as possible but I caved last night and brought home pizza. My DH is sick, and I am sporting a cold myself, so neither of us wanted to cook. The kids didn't complain all that much!
Have a great week all!
~Melissa
Monday: Turkey and Bean Burritos
Tuesday: Lemon Chicken Pasta
Wednesday: Easy Lasagna
Thursday: Leftovers
Friday: Chicken and Potatoes
Saturday: Paninis
Sunday: Breakfast
I am really trying hard to stick to my menu plan as closely as possible but I caved last night and brought home pizza. My DH is sick, and I am sporting a cold myself, so neither of us wanted to cook. The kids didn't complain all that much!
Have a great week all!
~Melissa
Monday, January 2, 2012
Menu Monday
There's nothing like planning a menu to start the year off right! I won't go grocery shopping until tomorrow so I needed to make something easy with what I have in the house for tonight. What's better than a little comfort food on the first Monday of the year?
Monday: Teriyaki Chicken over Rice
Tuesday: Tater Tot Casserole
Wednesday: Kari's Mexican Casserole
Thursday: Baked Potatoes
Friday: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Lemon Chicken Pasta
I have some leftover zucchini bread that we will use for snacks plus I will make some apple muffins later in the week.
It's good to be back in a routine. Even though there were a few protests about getting up early this morning, the kids were happy to go back to school.
And now, I'm off to widdle away at my to-do list! Have a great Monday!
~Melissa
Monday: Teriyaki Chicken over Rice
Tuesday: Tater Tot Casserole
Wednesday: Kari's Mexican Casserole
Thursday: Baked Potatoes
Friday: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Lemon Chicken Pasta
I have some leftover zucchini bread that we will use for snacks plus I will make some apple muffins later in the week.
It's good to be back in a routine. Even though there were a few protests about getting up early this morning, the kids were happy to go back to school.
And now, I'm off to widdle away at my to-do list! Have a great Monday!
~Melissa
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