This Little Life of Mine...

A Mother's Legacy & a Well-Behaved Mouse

2012-02-10T08:54:00.000-07:00

My hubby has been out of town all week.

~~I got so much done!~~

I miss him when he is gone.

They say,

"When the cat is away,

the mice will play,"

~~I must be a very well behaved mouse,~~

I never use my time to play.

I find that I prefer to use the time alone to work.

To clean.

To organize.

~~To stay in pajamas.~~

~~Okay, sometimes shop…~~

But mostly,

to get chores and projects done.

Our bedroom, for instance,

was a disaster area all week!

I was able to leave my scrapbook supplies in piles all over the floor.

I knew the hubby wouldn't be around

to get up in the middle of the night

and accidentally step on something

that might

~~cause him to mumble words he never really says~~

hurt him.

When my husband is gone,

I also look at it as an opportunity to spend some

quality time with my little girl.

She and I had a nice week together.

~~Except for last night, when she took over the entire bed.~~

Like last night,

as I sorted supplies, she laid next to me

on the floor working on her Valentine's Day cards

and school mailbox.

It's those moments when we are alone

that she feels comfortable enough

to break the silence

and confide in me about things

like her "crush"

and which Valentine card he would be getting!

Those are the moments that make me smile and

~~wonder why this child is so boy crazy,~~

and appreciate that we have that kind of relationship.

I am glad that she talks to me about things,

and I pray that she always does.

I pray that I have the wisdom to say the right things,

at the right times,

and

I pray that when she is older,

she will remember moments like this.

That she will grow up to be

~~"a well-behaved mouse too."~~

Inspired.

All kidding aside! ;)

I aspire for her, to aspire to be, a Proverbs 31 girl.

That works with her hands.

That can find a hundred things to do

at work,

and at home,

wherever her future may take her.

The kind of woman that stays motivated and busy

doing productive things,

using the gifts, that God has given her.

The kind of woman a husband can trust.

That a child can look up to.

That a friend can call on.

That she,

herself

can be proud of.

As her mother,

I can't even imagine her ever doing

anything

that would not

make me proud.

I just love my “little mouse” so much!

I don’t expect perfection,

Just effort,

And as her mother,

it is my job

to help shape her into the kind of person

who cares enough to try.

This morning,

as I folded the laundry,

and finished getting the house in order for

my hubby’s arrival,

I heard the words,

“At the end of the day

you should be content with where you have been

and proud of who you are.”

And I jotted it down,

The words reminded me of my mom.

I thought of her life.

I thought of mine.

Then I thought of my daughter’s.

I watched my mom,

all those years ago.

Working in the home,

while my dad was at work, and out of town.

I didn’t know that she was shaping me at the time,

but she was,

and she knew it.

A mother’s legacy…

it has to be one of the most precious gifts ever given.

DIY - Dinner Tray Makeover

2012-02-07T19:43:00.000-07:00

We've had these dinner trays stacked in the pantry for a couple of years.

The white and light oak don't match our house,

and they were pretty worn.

Even after washing them

they still looked dirty.

I thought about getting rid of them,

but I decided to hold onto them,

because it would be more fun
and practical,

to
(someday)
give them a makeover.

Well, someday came!

I pulled out the paint supplies and got to work.

I sprayed the tables with black spray paint,

and stenciled some red designs.

I dry brushed a few areas on the top, sides and legs,

then I rubbed sand paper over a few areas.

Lastly, I coated with a clear spray lacquer.

Can't wait to pull these babies out on movie night! ;)

What a Gift, Your Friendship & Bread

2012-02-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

So much sweetness in this life...

Family.

Friends.

Faith.

Food.

Yep, I am a foodie.

I love it.

My hubby and I love trying new recipes,

and 10 days ago

we received a new one,

Amish Friendship Bread.

I had never heard of this bread before,

so I was pretty excited to receive it,

but also a little nervous to try it.

Ooh, the pressure...

My friend gave me a bag of dough,

that came with 10 days of instructions.

What if I mess up the recipe and my friend asks me how it turns out?!

What if I tell people about the bread, then ruin it and

I don't get to give any out?

Can you believe I was nervous about bread?

Well, I was!

I'm a “what if” girl.

I have a tendency to let fears get to me.

I'm an often quiet, shy girl,

who sometimes worries about mistakes

before

I even make them!

I'm a lot of other things too.

I just have to

to remind

myself sometimes.

I'm a creative type.

I'm a wife, mother, step-mother, and friend.

I’m a personal chef, chauffeur and a baker.

I’m a college grad and homemaker.

A former school teacher, a scrapbooker and a maid.

I’m a freelance/blog writer and avid reader.

I’m a child care coordinator, and personal events planner.

I’m responsible, compassionate,

careful, and loyal.

I’m a nifty, thrifty, crafty girl,

And a savvy problem solver might I add.

I wear many hats.

I try lots of things.

I have experience.

Yet, even after

knowing

all of the things that

I know,

I still

at times

spend time

worrying

About the things

that

I don’t.

I am smart

enough to know,

some things just don’t matter.

Who cares if I make a mistake,

life will go on.

And as I have gotten older,

I have learned to worry

(a little) less

and to say

who cares

(a little) more.

The days goes by so fast,

and

I shouldn't stress about silly things.

Sometimes I get it right.

Sometimes I don’t.

I don’t have to

worry about everything

and care so much

because I know that

God

cares enough for the both of us.

Yet, still,

I have my moments

and on occasion

I'll find myself nervous,

only to discover

that I worried for no reason at all.

Everything turned out better than expected.

Just like ~ this bread ~ last night.

And

even if it wouldn't have turned out perfectly,

I would have been just fine,

after all...

making mistakes is part of the growing process…

in the kitchen,

and

in life.

And I do realize that the best part of this bread,

Wasn't the bread itself,

but the

friendship

that came with it!

30 – 3 things old seen new…dinner trays repainted, journals retyped, new blossoms on our old bush

31 – a gift on a paper, in a person, in a picture…a card I found while cleaning that was given to my hubby a few years ago, my mother-in-law’s call (who’s bday was today), a drawing along with a hole in the wall, because my niece unexpectedly tacked a picture up for me in my office

1 – a visit from a friend, his time and love, putting together a puzzle with the kids

2 - hubby won a trip, she’s happy to go because she loves him, the power is in believing

3 – clarity, expression, revelation

4 - invitations made with my little one, a newly hatched bird in her cage, crumbs she left… because she was home

5 – a blouse from my friend, the bench that my hubby made with me, her red heart blanket

Between You and Me

2012-02-03T13:14:00.003-07:00

If your brother sins against you,
Go and show him his fault,

Just between the two of you.

If he listens to you,

You have won your brother over.

Matthew 18:15, NIV

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

I love this verse.

There are so many verses in the bible

That simply tell us,

How to live.

How to handle things.

How to solve every day problems.

Correctly.

Responsibly.

Lovingly.

This specific verse reminds us

that we do not have to overlook

Or ignore a problem that hurts us,

And that it is okay to confront an issue,

But that we are to do so

In a private

And respectful way.

Image by the Black Dahlia

Yes.

God intended for us to live an

Honest,

Hardworking,

Quiet,

Compassionate,

Grateful life,

Respectfully!

Yet, when I look around,

I can’t help but to see that we live in a world

That does not seem to know the definition of couth.

We see spouses who can’t get into an argument

Without letting their entire family hear about their hurts.

We see reality shows
Full of people who find it acceptable to curse and yell

At each other publicly when they are angry.

We witness friends and families

Who when they have disagreements,

Use social media

To put their loved ones on blast.

However, this is not God's way...

God’s way

When we

Treat each other with love.

...confronting each other privately,

...and forgiving each other willingly.

When we truly value the relationship

We have with someone,

We do not address issues,

To prove our how perfect we are,

Or to win an argument…

We confront issues to help and to heal people.

Our intentions should be to solve a problem,

To prevent a “wrong” from happening again,

To help a loved one who is making hurtful choices,

Or to try to heal a damaged relationship.

We can’t repair a hurting relationship,

By causing more hurt.

By posting about our anger on Facebook.

By getting our children involved in our disputes.

By gossiping

And by openly disrespecting each other.

Confronting the issues privately,

Is not a promise that the problems will be resolved.

We cannot determine how another person will react,

This is why He says,

“If He listens to you,

You have won your brother over.”

We cannot control our “brothers”

Our friends, children, coworkers and spouses,

However, we can control our own behavior.

We choose our character.

We can practice

Compassion,

Honesty

Love,

And

Peace.

And one of the ways that we can do this

Is by learning to apply

Matthew 18:15

To our daily lives.

He has taught me that the best way

To maintain

Loving and respectful

Relationships

Is to

Confront each other quietly

and

Love each other loudly.

Chocolate Stuffed French Toast

2012-02-02T11:04:00.000-07:00

My mom bought me a Pillsbury recipe book for my birthday.

It has so many yummy ideas.

The first thing I had to try was the

Chocolate Stuffed French Toast.

It was a really easy and fast recipe

made using my two favorite ingredients -

chocolate & bread.

Mmmm...

The first Step was to slice the french bread.

Then spread Honey Nut Cream Cheese on one side

of each of the slices.

Then I sprinkled chocolate chips on every other slice.

Next, in a bowl I mixed:

2 1/2 cups of milk

1/4 cup of brown sugar

3 eggs

Then I placed two slices of bread together and dipped them into the bowl mixture.

Afterwards, I placed the bread into a 13x9 glass dish

and poured the remaining ingredients over them.

I covered the recipe with foil and placed int the fridge over night.

The next morning I melted 1/4 cup of butter and poured it over the recipe,

and baked it at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.

Then I flipped the toast over so both sides would have a crunch,

and baked for an additional 15 minutes.

I set out toppings in different bowls.

We had melted chocolate, syrup, whipped cream,

bananas, powdered sugar and nuts.

It was pretty yummy.

I can't wait to try it again!

Next time I may make a few changes.

I will not pour the remaining egg mixture

over the bread to soak over night.

It was a little too soft for my taste.

But all in all,

it was a delicious new recipe!

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

"I am the living bread that came down from heaven.

If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever.

And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.”"

John 6:51 ESV

Inner Beauty, Outer Beauty & Taking Time for Me...

2012-01-30T13:48:00.002-07:00

Last week as I was getting my hair done,

I was chatting with the stylist about random things.

I mentioned that I hadn’t gotten my hair done in months.

It was frizzy, full of split ends, and had strands of gray...

It hasn’t been a priority.

I feel like I have so many other things to do during the day,

and spending time on my hair isn’t one of them.

If someone were to unexpectedly catch me at home,

They’d find me in comfy, stretchy clothes,

with my hair in a bun, sans makeup.

That’s how I live as a stay at home mom.

A few years back, was a different story.

I worked outside of the home,

and so I spent a little more time on me.

My hair and makeup were always done,

and I wore something other than tennis shoes.

Now as a SAHM,

I have a hard time justifying the reasons to spend time on me.

And sometimes,

I even feel a little guilty when I spend time and money on my hair, my makeup,

and clothes.

I-fight-that-feeling,

because when I do make time for myself,

before running errands or spending a day out,

I feel great!

The strange thing is that when I have a more natural look,

little to no makeup and casual clothes, my hubby compliments me more.

Proof that the extra time I spend on my appearance

is really something that want to do for ME!

I love dressing up. I love feeling feminine. I love being a woman.

As we talked about this,

My stylist mentioned a program she saw a while back,

letting me know that I was not alone,

women, Christian mothers in particular,

feel guilty about taking care of themselves.

It’s so true, as parents and care givers

it is in our nature to put others first.

When I drop my girls off to school in the morning,

they are bouncing along to their classroom looking fresh and cute,

and me?

I am hiding behind my hat and sunglasses!

She went on to say that the speaker mentioned that

women shouldn’t feel bad about spending time on themselves,

Because if we feel beautiful inside,

it's only natural to want to reflect that beauty on the outside.

I loved that!

Not that a woman has to be dressed up to be beautiful,

but I know that personally,

when I spend a little more time on my outward appearance,

I feel better and that confidence shows.

And when I am happy,

I really want to share my happiness...in all ways possible.

With my smile,

in my writing,

through conversation,

through gratitude in prayer

and even with what I wear,

because I do feel like we can express ourselves through our appearance.

What I am feeling internally, is usually reflected externally.

One way I do this is with color.

We know that the world does use colors to represent moods and attitudes...

Black= authority, power, darkness, depression,
White= innocence, purity,
Red= Love, vibrancy, appeal
Pink= romance, tranquility
Blue= calming, cool, sadness, strength
Green= conservative, easy going
Yellow = cheerful, optimism, newness, refreshed, energy inducing
Purple= feminine, wealthy
Brown= comfort, natural

I have a pair of hot pink exercise pants that I wear on occasion,

and they are so loud,

which is strange, because my shy, quiet personality is so not...

but I call them my happy pants.

I wear them when I feel great,

and at the same time,

I feel like they add a little more color to my day.

The day feels brighter, somehow!

Although, with that being said,

when it comes to taking time for me,

the most important thing I consider is if I have found that perfect balance.

It's about making sure that my house, my chores, my kids, my husband,

and my writing gets taken care of,

while still finding time for me.

I know I can be the kind of woman who makes the time to spend some time

on myself, with out feeling guilty about it,

because being beautiful on the inside doesn't necessarily mean

that we have to neglect the woman on the outside!

“It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.” Maya Angelou

Taking joy in living is a woman's best cosmetic.
Rosalind Russell

You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.
Buddha

23: 3 gifts found in Christ - forgiveness, wholeness, peace

24: 3 things blue - our truck, the sky, my baby brother's eyes

25: a grace found, a grace borrowed, a grace inherited - a bible for my daughter, a friend's time, my mom's ability to always find some good

26: a gift before 9am, a gift before noon, a gift before dark - songs/poem ideas that popped into my head, a clean house, dinner with my family

27: - getting my hair done :), watching a chic flick and doing my nails with my daughter, an evening walk with my hubby

28: 3 graces found in your friends - wonderful with my kids, they always remember to include me even though I rarely attend, their willingness to overlook each other's/my own faults

29: a song heard, a soft word, where you saw the light - Happy Birthday to Issac on his 17th Birthday, my daughter whisper when she didn't feel good, a beautiful sunset my husband pointed out to me

A Straight Path

2012-01-29T11:52:00.000-07:00

I had to share this image today.

It reminds me of God's plan.

nature-wallpaper.blogspot.com

Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.

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

Every once in a while,

I get distracted and take a detour.

I spend less time reading the Bible

or doing things that He has put in my heart.

And I know that when I lose focus

and I spend my time selfishly,

making little to no time for Him,

my days seems seem less

colorful.

But when I meditate on His words,

I feel so blessed.

When I keep Him close,

life is better.

Not that I have less challenges in my life,

but it's that I handle the stress much better with Him.

He bears my burdens and

he fills me with peace, understanding and love.

His presence fills me UP,

and never lets me down.

Melt me. Mold me. Fill me . Use me.

2012-01-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

So glad it's the weekend.

Not that my days are very different, but my kids and hubby are

at home a little more.

So that's the BIG perk!

Awesome.

I'm got my hair done yesterday!

Finally!

It has been months...

but I'm so excited,

because now that I get to chop of these dead ends

& that means

maybe I'll feel like styling my hair a little more often.

Ya know,

good-byeeeeeee

frumpy housewife. ;)

Awesome.

I thought I'd get a little more writing in today too.

I hand-wrote a few ideas yesterday and so I have some typing to do today.

I don't have a case for my ipad yet,

and was glad to see that it fits perfectly in my Bible bag!

Awesome.

I also took my walk yesterday morning,

and listened to Chuck Swindoll

speak of the Holy Spirit,

his prayer was

you guessed it-

awesome!

Melt me. Mold me. Fill me. Use me.

Lord,

When it comes to relationships lord melt me.

When it comes to objectives and the pursuit of life mold me.

As the day gets long, and the journey gets painful,

fill me with power and perserverence.

And as I face the circumstances, transform me

and be in control of these circumstances

and use me.

Amen.

Happy Saturday friends!

The Best Relationships

2012-01-26T16:37:00.000-07:00

The best relationships aren't perfect.
They are messy.
They aren't conservative.
They are vulnerable.
They aren't judgemental.
They are compassionate.

The best relationship aren't hesistant to speak the truth.
They are honest, because they love you.

They are freeing, because they allow you

to be you.

The best relationships are when you can share
the good, the bad, and the ugly
and know that
even when you know you are at your worst,
your friend still loves you

and thinks of you

the best.

Intentional Parenting: Chore Charts

2012-01-25T13:09:00.000-07:00

I love being a mom.

I can't even begin to describe all those ooh-ey goo-ey feelings

that consume my little mommy heart!

Parenting isn't all hugs and kisses,

but at this stage in our life,

most days are easy and enjoyable!

The girls are still at the age where they love to do everything with us,

and when there is work to get done,

we are a team.

I do know that as a parent

I have to be intentional in everything I do.

I am always teaching all of our kids to be helpful, grateful,

considerate and responsible.

I am AWESOME at guiding, correction and reinforcing positive behavior,

but I really lack when it comes to

following through on discipline for the negative behavior!

When it comes to the girls forgetting to do things I asked them to do,

or when their grumpiness becomes rude,

I have no problem correcting them.

I just never following through with the consequences.

Yikes! I know.

I'm a big ol' softy when it comes to tears.

I can't even remember

the last time I ever actually removed privelages from either one of them.

I always give second chances

and allow them to promise it won't happen again.

Positive reinforcement has helped,

but it doesn't always work consistently.

So one of my many goals for this year is to stick to "plans."

One thing I want to stay on top of are the chore charts.

I have done them in the past,

and the girls respond to them really well.

When the girls have their chores written down

I do not have to remind them of their daily responsibilities.

&&& that's just great, because most days

if I do not remind them to do even the little things

like brush their teeth,

or put lotion on they will skip those tasks.

While chores do not excite my kids,

check off sheets and rewards do!

So I picked up $2 white boards at Target, and

the girls and I made a few flowers to glue onto the magnets.

They really enjoyed making the flowers

so we ended up making some extra for their hair.

There is a sense of accomplishment

when a child can get a visual of all that he/she has done.

Let the motivation begin!

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

Some people regard discipline as a chore.

For me, it is a kind of order that sets me free to fly.

~Aristotle

Loving discipline encourages a child to respect

other people and live as a responsible, constructive citizen.
~Dr. James Dobson

For these commands are a lamp,

this teaching is a light,

and the corrections of discipline are the way to life.
~Proverbs 6:23

Who Are You Making Time For?

2012-01-24T13:17:00.001-07:00

Time is a gift that we have all been given.

We have the option to schedule our days as we see fit.

We all have obligations,

but there is always some time in the day to use as we please.

How do you fill in those extra moments each day?

Do you sacrifice 30 minutes of sleep

and wake up a little earlier so that you can exercise each day?

Do you use the last hour of each day to

catch up on television shows or new Pinterest ideas?

Do you use your lunch hour to meet with friends to reconnect?

Do you sneak in some Bible time while you are in the car

waiting to pick up the kids from school?

Do you use driving time to call your Mom to see how she is doing?

When we say, "I don't have the time," or, "I have been too busy to do that,"

What we are really saying is,

"That is not a priority for me at the moment."

What have you not made time for recently?

Do you have anything in your life that needs some attention,

but you haven't made the time to fit it into your day?

What has your "use of time" been saying to your husband,

to your children, to your parents, to your friends, and to God?

If it matters to you. Do it.

If they matter to you, make the time for them.

After all,

our time may be priceless,

but if we manage it wisely the pay off can be wonderful!

The Girl in the Mirror

2012-01-23T12:01:00.003-07:00

As I sit here at my desk going through many of my old journal entries, poems and letters to God.

I am so amazed. The girl in the mirror has not changed a whole lot, but the girl inside has changed tremendously!

At 17, I wrote, "I know that there is someone out there for everyone, including me. It might take a little longer than I hope for, or a few more heartaches than I want, but I am sure in the end it will be worth it. Maybe it's not right to give up, maybe it's just best if I move on."

I continued to read the things I wrote at 21, 24, 28, and 31…

There was a trend. I was always talking about a struggle, but I ended my journals with a bit of positivity about the future. I always remained hopeful.

My journal entries were about many different things that I was experiencing at those times in my life. I wrote about social issues and things that concerned my relationships with friends and family. I often wrote about my faith or whatever personal battle I was facing. I also wrote about small miracles that affected my life. However, the majority of my paperwork was written about love. Ah! Such a hopeless romantic, I was. Although, if you know me, you know that I still am.

I love, love.

I still find myself lost in thought. Lost in the beauty of what is and the beauty that could be. The beauty of life that is.

I am always thinking about the future and what tomorrow may bring. Like the girl in those journal entries, I remain hopeful. Although these days, the difference that I see when I compare the two is that I am not lacking when it comes to appreciating what I have at this very moment.

In my younger years, I did.

Luckily, I have been able to break free from those habits. From the outlook that kept me searching for happiness and looking for how things could improve. They were holding me back from appreciating all of the wonderful things that I had in my life at that time.

I was so focused on the problems that I was experiencing, instead of looking for all of the things that were good, and I missed some of the beautiful moments.

It took one life changing experience to move me.

It taught me to look inside myself a little more, to be the kind of person that God desires me to be.

Now, my life is good.

Not that things are perfect, nor will every day be hunky dory and full of glory,

but they are good, because happiness is a choice.

As I continued reading I found this entry that I wrote last year, at 33, "There will be many times that we will feel weak and in need of a hero, but whether we have found ourselves an earthly hero or not, we must always remember that we already have a heavenly one! One who has promised us many things."

I realized that “that girl” finally found what she was searching for.

I never had a problem loving myself, but I was always searching for someone that would love “the me” that I loved.

I finally realized that there was already someone out there who loved me, as much as, if not more than I could ever love myself. God loved me and He had already given me so many gifts. Gifts that I was neglecting to see.

Because of His love, I was finally able to stop searching for "happiness".

I have many interests and plenty of dreams and goals for myself. I will never stop trying new things, or lose my “hope” that great things can happen.

But He has taught me that while it is okay to be excited about what my future may hold, I must never lose sight of what great things my present contains!

20 years from now when I am looking back at how the girl in the mirror has changed, I hope that my appreciation for the Lord's blessings is something that will remain the same.

16: (3 ways I witnessed happiness)-my kids were on vacation & I enjoyed our time, bible study was beautiful, laying in bed face to face talking to my hubby about our day

17: (1 gift that made me laugh/pray/quiet)-found a craft to do with my girls, something i felt disappointed about turned out okay in the end, a busy day full of fun and loved one's that made me tired

18: (gifts from God)- our girls made honor roll & principals lists again and I am blessed with healthy, smart girls

19: (a grace in the kitchen/weather/that might have never been) the bible on my counter, nice weather permitting me to go on walks, a new friendship

20: (3 gifts you saw close up) my grandmother's smile, my daughter's excitement, truth in "her" actions

21: (1 thing in the sky/memory/ugly) the video my hubby sent me of our proposal, meeting him for the first time, thoughts of what I wish I could have done differently with her, but the growth that resulted from it

22: (1 grace wrinkled/smoothed/unfolded) the lines around "his" eyes that reminds me how hard he works, the cream on my bathroom counter, the clothes my SS forgot in the dryer that I folded for him

Choose Happiness

2012-01-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

Gratitude...

It's a BIG expectation in my home!

Sometimes it is easy to mumble and grumble about things.

It’s hard to be content in every situation,

and yet,

there is always

something to be happy about!

Today, I was reminded

that while many things in life may be out of our control,

our attitude is not one of them.

Today friends,

is just another opportunity to

ChOOSE happiness!

Valentine's Day Mailboxes

2012-01-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

I saw a few Valentine Mailboxes decorated on Pinterest,

so I had to make some for my family!

I found small mailboxes at Target for a dollar.

The other supplies I used were just items I had around the house.

I painted the candle holders with black and white spray paint.

Then I decorated the boxes with with ribbon, fabric and scrapbook paper.

Last year, I typed some "Acts of Kindness" and cut out little sheets

and placed them in a jar in the kitchen.

Whenever someone felt like doing something nice

for a member of the family, they could pull a piece of paper out of the jar.

This year, I changed it up a bit and added a few blank sheets of paper and pen

in one of my favorite mugs!

Now whenever we feel like complimenting or thanking someone in our house

for something, we can write them a small note

and stick it in their mailbox.

The kids want to check their mailboxes everyday,

but the rule is that they must wait until Valentine's Day.

So that they will have dozens of notes to read at once.

The girls (and my husband) seem to really be enjoying it! :)

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

The love is your heart wasn't put there to stay,

love isn't love 'til you give it away.

What Am I Invested In?

2012-01-17T12:29:00.001-07:00

I have just started attended BSF

(Bible Study Fellowship.)

The girls and I completed our first week of homework and then,

yesterday was the first time we met with our small groups.

I really enjoyed myself.

When I got home I was very chatty with my husband,

I told him about the notes that I took and about some of the things I had learned.

One very powerful section that we discussed...

1 Thessalonians 5:2-4... for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. But you, brothers, are not in darkness...

Wow!

I enjoy reading the Bible,

but even more so when I get to share my thoughts,

feelings and ideas with other believers.

At the end of the night, during the lecture,

as I was listening to the speaker talk about Thessalonians

and about Paul's journey,

the persecution he endured and the love that he had for people,

I began jotting down how Paul was an encourager.

Then as I heard the speaker say...

BELIEVERS ARE ENCOURAGING

It led me think about the people in my life.

I thought of who I intend to encourage,

and then I wondered...

What am I invested in?

Who am I invested in?

Whew! My list was of things and people that I believe God

would deem worthy!

Next, I wrote down that

BELIEVERS NEED ENCOURAGEMENT

and I thought about the people in my life,

that I am not only invested in, but that are invested in me.

Of course, God, my husband and my kids were at the top of the list again,

but it was kind of an eye-opening moment.

Because one of the things that has really been important to me the past few years

is having really good people surround around our children.

Children are influenced by so many people.

And many times, even though in our home we are taught "values"

society's standards can easily become a way of life.

I want our children to make better choices than we did,

and I realized that BSF is a good step towards making this happen.

It's not only a way for me and the girls to get a better understanding of the Bible,

but it's teaching them dedication and discipline

and it is putting them in an environment with people

who are there because they love God and desire to know more.

I truly hope that as they grow,

Bible lessons and devotions, church visits, and BSF meetings

will not be something that they "did" as a kid,

but will be a way of life.

I will do many things in this life,

but the most important thing I can and will ever do

will be to raise loving, healthy, happy Christian kids.

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

Dear Lord,

I pray that our girls will make valuable and healthy friendships.

That they will be a positive example to their loved ones,

and that they will also have friends that encourage them to live a Christian life as well.

AMEN!

Marriage Mondays: Keeping Score

2012-01-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

Even when my husband is having a tough day,

one would rarely be able to notice,

because of the way he treats me.

He kisses me good morning and good night.

He hugs me hello and good-bye.

He thanks me, and compliments me throughout the day.

I did not ask for it.

I did not expect it.

In fact, I didn't even know this much kindness

in a relationship was possible.

He has taught me so much!

When I think of the way he loves me, I feel a little guilty.

I haven't really done much to deserve all of this sweet treatment.

However, I fully accept it!

He loves me more than enough,

and I am constantly attempting to make him feel just as loved.

I believe that this is the perfect example of when
"Keeping Score"

in a relationship is healthy.

Keeping score should not be about women and men keeping track of whether their partners “work” as hard as they do.

We all need to know that our partners are just as dedicated to making the relationship work, but when one spouse is overly concerned with making sure that the workload is distributed equally between the two, it gives that person less time to worry about the love and consideration that he or she is giving to the other spouse.

Men and women who are worried about “fairness” in their relationships, can tend to put little to no value on what their spouses contribute to the marriage.

Keeping score should be about women and men loving their partners to their fullest abilities.

If we are going to keep a mental checklist, let it be of all the wonderful things that our spouses do for us so that we will to be more considerate and loving towards them.

The kind of relationship where a couple is less worried about what “you can do for me” and is more concerned with “what I can do for you” thrives beautifully!

My husband and I don't rotate responsibilities.

Saying prayer with the kids, doing the dishes, washing the laundry, getting up with the children, keeping the pantry stocked…are things that I would do regardless of whether I worked outside of the home or not.

I do these things because I take pride in my role as the woman of the home.

My husband did not “expect” these things of me in the beginning of our relationship, but he was always certain to tell me how much he “appreciated” what I did, and his loving affirmations worked.

While I have always had these expectations of myself,
because I know that God expects us to be “diligent and fruitful,”
I now do it even happier,
because I have a husband who often shows appreciation for the things that I do.

I am constantly reminding myself to thank him for the things that he does,

because I know that I am lucky to have him here to help.

So today's challenge is to...

Think of a few things that our husband (or wife) does to make our lives a little easier

and send him a text thanking him!

Project: Decorative Baskets

2012-01-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to add a few small baskets to Trinity's bedroom.

She is collector and has tons of small toys and stuffed animals.

However, I wanted to budget and spend very little,

so I found these baskets at the dollar store,

along some flowers that matched her bedroom decor,

and then used some ribbon I already had.

These little beauties sat nearby, giggling, chatting and drawing

while I put the baskets together.

Ta-da!

I clipped them to a rope that we strung from her bedroom ceiling.

Loved it!

CREATE, LOVE & GROW FRIENDS... xo

Proud Mommy Moments: Poems by Jocelyn

2012-01-12T10:07:00.002-07:00

Last week, Jocelyn left her journal in my bedroom

and I got to peek through a few poems she was writing.

They were acrostic poems and they were beautiful!

If there was an N in mother,

she might have called me Nosey.

Luckily, there is not!

I did tell her that I saw her poems

and she proudly read them to me.

Then today,

I told her about

and she gave me her permission to post them!

I have always had a love for poetry.

I like when a writer is genuine

and uses thought provoking ideas.

I’m so thrilled that Jocelyn is like me,

in the sense that she always had a pen and a piece of paper on hand.

Jocelyn’s poems are definitely genuine.

These words come from her innocent little eight-year-old heart.

I was moved by the traits she chose to focus on.

Now, I want to search through her old schoolwork files

for other Mother poems to compare the difference.

What a treat my child is!

I am a proud MOTHER

and I’m sure she makes Jesus smile too!

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

My Mom is nice.

Oh, she sings pretty.

The Mom believes and has faith.

Her life was through a rainbow.

Every day I am gone, she calls me.

Right, is what she chooses.

Faith in me.

A wise guy.

The greatest man.

He is a believer.

Even a sport’s person.

Raised me very happily.

Home Decorating Updates

2012-01-11T12:58:00.003-07:00

Here are a few home decorating updates,

I've still been making a few changes to the house for a fresh new year.

We moved the table from the office to the kitchen.

So, now we can all fit at the table for dinner.

Then we moved the round table to the living room, creating our own little breakfast nook.

The desk from our bedroom is now in the downstairs office.

One of my most favorite item(s) in the office are the green wine bottles I used to add flowers to. I just love the color they add.

I also like having the wall sconces to hold my scissors, writing pens and pencils.

They help to keep my desk clutter free and they are so pretty!

Lastly, behind my desk, sits a file cabinet. You can see the acceptance letters for a few magazine submissions I sent out. It look like they will be published by the end of the year. Yay!

I was so happy to receive them,

so now they are hanging up to provide future inspiration.

Speaking of inspiration.

I just saw the trailer for a Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock movie, called Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. I cried just watching the trailer!

Check it out

HERE

& Have a great day!

Things I Have Learned

2012-01-08T17:28:00.004-07:00

Last month, I blew out 34 candles.

This month, I'm sharing 34 things life has taught me.

I have learned that the best kind of love is the love that you give to yourself.

No one knows you like you do. If you do not treat yourself with kindness, then how can you expect someone else to? Maya Angelou said it best, "if you don’t like something, change it, if you can’t change it, change your attitude.” The words that you speak to yourself are the most important!

I have learned that some people thrive on drama.

Even when there is no drama left in their own life, they will gossip about other's lives to create it. The only way to deal with them is to keep a healthy distance.

I have learned that sometimes those who do little good, can seem to have it good, but sometimes those who have it good, have little that is good. (lol, Got it?)

I have learned that relationships require leaning.

I truly believe that if we cannot be honest and vulnerable with the people that we love, then who can we trust. Relationships are about relating.

I have learned that sometimes the people that “show up” are the ones you would least expect.

I have learned that just when we think we have learned enough, God sends us another lesson.

I have learned that some parents, just shouldn't be.

Parenting is a privilege, and I think Child Protective Services needs a new philosophy!

I have learned that if you lack empathy, your relationships will suffer.

Friendships require compassion.

I have learned that we should never take any "prescription drug" lightly.

I just cannot get over the fact that a sleeping pill made me lose it. It affected how I viewed and handled the things in my life for the several months that I took it. Lesson learned!

I have learned that God expects great things.

Many people are content with only helping those within the walls of their home, and some are only concerned with what they can do for themselves, but with God we can do more and we should.

I have learned that some relationships are seasonal.

We evolve and relationships must be prioritized.

I have learned that the love of a parent is like no other.

When I feel completely overwhelmed with love, it is usually when I am thinking about my child!

I have learned that your husband/wife can be your best friend!

I have learned that when it comes to family, one person is usually the glue.

It should not be that way. Although at times, it seems as though one person usually is. When that person is no longer around, whether it is intentional or unintentional, it changes the story for everyone. One person's absence can have a domino effect.

I have learned that one person can make a difference in the life of another.

All it takes is one person to hurt a child, to change that child’s life. One.

Then again, all it takes is one person to love a child, to change a child’s life.

Sometimes a kind word, a thoughtful deed, or just being there can save a life.

(Read, “A Child Called It.”)

I have learned that when we say, "I'd never," a life experience comes around and teaches us “We just might.”

Life has a way of altering our views and making us look at things with a completely different perspective. Personal experience shapes us. Who we were then, is not who we are now, so speak with care.

I have learned that taking care of your health is so important.

Spiritual, physical, and mental health is all connected. We must nourish the body, mind and soul for a healthier, happier being.

I have learned that relationships need maintenance.

They require all parties involved to make the effort.

I have learned that the saying, "Behind every happy man, is a good woman" is true!

A wife can choose to practice honesty, forgiveness, and patience. She can influence "the fruit of the spirit" or she can influence the alternative. She can build up his self-worth or tear him down. She can encourage his relationships with his family and friends or she can discourage them. When a man loves a woman he hears what she says and he believes it.

I have learned that, “Behind every confident woman, is a loving man,” is also true.

A husband can choose to practice honesty, love and acceptance. He can thank her for her contributions to the family, pamper her when he sees that she is weary or he can neglect to acknowledge any of it. He can encourage her to be all that she desires or he can discourage her. When a woman loves a man, she hears what he says and she believes it.

I have learned that God speaks to us in many ways and when we do not listen the first time, he keeps trying.

Have you ever had a new door open, but neglected to make the change? Have you ever had a nagging feeling about something, but shrugged it off, and later that same opportunity presented itself again in a new way? God works in mysterious ways. Mysterious and miraculous!

I have learned that the value of what a person should be is sometimes based on what he has, rather than what he gives.

Sometimes, we get it backwards. On a side note, have you ever noticed that it is usually the most generous people that are the happiest?!

I have learned that if you want something beautiful, you have to do the work!

I have learned that we all have something to offer.

Today, I read a verse in Psalms reminding me that our book is already written. God has plans for us, and His plans are great.

I have learned that laughter is like sunshine for the soul.

I have learned that a happy family does not come easy.

Raising our children and nurtuting our marriage is a lot of work. If we want our children to grow into functioning adults, with healthy relationships we have to model what that means.

I have learned that the people that are there for the “milestones” should be appreciated, but the people that are there “all the days in between” should be cherished!

I have learned that God really is forgiving!

I could not wrap my mind around why the God that we are taught to fear, the God with many laws would forgive our sins. I read the biblical account of David, I wondered how David could do such awful things, and still God loved him, promised him many things, and kept those promises! Then as I continued reading, I learned that it is not about the mistakes we have made, it is about whether or not we have learned from them and truly seek His forgiveness. God saw David’s heart, He sees our hearts, and He forgives!

I have learned that even when we do not trust someone, it is still possible (to not only) treat them with kindness, but to love them.

I have learned that blood does not necessarily make a person family; some of my most cherished relationships have come to me through friendship & marriage!

I have learned that sometimes it is in silence that we hear the most profound things!

A lot can be said for listening.

I have learned that success is in the eye of the beholder.

I have learned that people can change!

I do believe in second chances! (Just not so much in third.)

When I was younger I had less to worry about,

but I have learned that the older I get, the happier I am!

Apple pie is healthy, it has fruit doesn't it?!

2012-01-06T11:38:00.001-07:00

I give myself the chance to take a break from exercising regularly and eating healthy around the holidays.

October thru December, I rarely step on the scale.

It's not very healthy, I know,

but I sure enjoy it!

I bake lots of goodies, and keep the holiday trays filled.

We live large…oh, yes!

My husband and I both have a sweet tooth!

We have lots of memories of yummy desserts our mothers used to make for our families.

I also have fond memories of baking with my mom and Nina for the holidays.

Making goodies for the holidays has always been a tradition for the women in my family,

and I intend to carry it on with our girls.

Since I love to bake, we bake all year long, but during the holidays I get to make traditional recipes, and try many new recipes that I don’t during the other months.

So needless to say, when January 1st arrived I was ready to get back into shape!

A few days ago, I finally decided to suck it up

(since I am getting tired of sucking it in :)

and I got on the scale…

I cried some…

Not really!

But I did decide to get right back into a health regime.

Recently, I had my first trip back to the grocery store since the holidays,

I planned to spend more time in the produce section...but I didn’t.

…It’s a process!

You see…

I still had one pie crust left in the fridge.

So I had to buy apples for the pie crust, and vanilla ice cream to go with the apple pie.

(Because that is one of my hubby’s favorite desserts.)

Joc and I hurried home to bake this and surprise Matthew with a yummy after-dinner-dessert,

and the apple pie recipe that we used was delish!

Sweet Apple Pie

1 cup of sugar

1 tsp of cinnamon

1 tbs flour

1/4 cup of apple cider

2 tbs butter
4 cups of sliced apples

pie crust

bake at 350 for 90 minutes

Unfortunately, we had leftovers,

so my diet didn't start the next day either,

but it was well worth it!

Home Improvements: DIY Bench

2012-01-03T23:07:00.001-07:00

After the holidays,

I find myself in the mood to get the house in order.

I like the idea of making "improvements" for the new year

and some of the improvements include our home.

The first thing I do before putting all of the Christmas gifts away,

is organize areas that need to be decluttered.

I started with the girls' bedrooms, and moved onto the closets.

The second thing I do is make a few changes to areas that need a little pick me up.

Sometimes it's a paint job or just moving the furniture around to mix things up.

Our most recent project is something I have been wanting to do for almost a year now.

So I am very excited to share it with you!

We have always had stools, near our kitchen counter,

but I envisioned something a little different.

I wanted an over sized bench...comfy, pretty and one of a kind.

My hubby and I bought the wood needed to design it from Lowes.

Then he cut the pieces and put it together.

I sanded it and painted it with black spray paint.

You can see the bench, behind our silly girls (who were just pretending to fight.)

The next step was buying the foam.

The best price we found was at Walmart.

We doubled the padding (before stapling it) to give the bench more cushion.

Then we added the fabric that I found at Joanns.

It's comfy, pretty and sensible!

I (with the help of my mama) chose a multi-colored fabric from Joanns, that was thick and durable

so that I could keep the bench looking clean and nice.

I am so happy with it!

A Brand New Year!

2012-01-02T12:40:00.001-07:00

It's a brand new year!

There is something magical about New Year's Eve.

We have one night left to celebrate the end of a year...

it's the passing of the good times, the not so good times and all the days in between.

Then at the strike of 12...

It's the beginning!

Not just a new day,

...or week,

...or month,

It's the beginning of a whole new YEAR!

A chance to open ourselves up to change, and possibility,

and to whatever the future may bring!

Possibility makes me happy! :)

This year my hubby and I entertained the idea of

"someday"

celebrating NYE in Times Square,

but since it wasn't happening this year,

I decided to bring the city to us.

It was a simple night spent in my parents garage,

playing, singing and eating.

It was just as good, if not better, than Times Square,

because there is only one place my

*New Years Kiss*

has to be to make it perfect...

on his lips, in his arms, surrounded by the people that I love~

Of course! ;o)

Wishing you a wonderful New Year!

May we go from one good thing to the next,

appreciating, learning, and growing

all the days in between!

A snowman. A liar. A birthday.

2011-12-17T10:22:00.001-07:00

Christmas is a week away!

These snowman pancakes have become a staple in our household this month, because the kids just love them.

One of the first things I do each day, before making breakfast, or starting any other morning routine is read a verse from the The Daily Bible App . This is the verse that I received today.

1 John 2:4-6

4 Whoever says I know him but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.

A liar...ouch.

Are you someone who believes in God, but knows very little about your faith? Or someone who knows His commandments, but does not keep them?

There are so many wonderful New Year's Resolutions that we can make for ourselves. We all have room for self-improvement. I know that I do. :)

Don't you think a nice place to start would be to become a believer who actually knows what it is that we believe in, one that "keeps His commandments?"

***********

Today, my family will be celebrating a birthday for the cutest one year old ever!

Make it a great day,

(and may this NY's Resolution be great too ;)

<3 to you!

Your Presence is Invaluable

2011-12-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

Today was beautiful.

We found an opportunity to sit,

To visit,

To catch up.

We don’t do it often,

And that’s okay.

Life happens.

We are busy.

We have families.

Daily chores.

Things to do.

And so many other people in our lives to make the time for.

But,

Today,

We found the time for each other.

It was wonderful.

I walked away feeling happy.

That’s how ((you)) make me feel.

Happy.

In case you didn’t know, that is how you make everyone feel.

Your personality shines.

It always has.

When we were kids, I looked up to you.

Now, as an adult, nothing has changed.

I look up to you.

Life is not perfect,

But oh, how I enjoy sharing our imperfections with each other.

I have a secret,

In my eyes,

You ARE magnificent.

Your imperfections make you unique.

Your struggles make you human.

Your ability to persevere,

To take each day as it comes,

Makes you admirable.

Your successes,

(& you have many)

They make you irreplaceable!

But, the best part,

Has always been,

Your presence.

Your presence is invaluable.

Perhaps our time together happens only a few times out of each year,

But that’s okay.

A few times is all it takes

To remind me

Just how special you are.

A few times is all it takes

To fill my heart up with enough love to last

Until we meet again!

Christmas The Little Brown Jacket

2011-11-26T21:13:00.001-07:00

When I got up this morning, I was alone.

No husband, no kids, no vehicle.

Just me and the quiet of the house.

What to do…what to do…

Oh, I knew exactly what I was going to do!

I put on some holiday music and pulled out the Christmas decorations.

I have been looking forward to decorating for Christmas the last few months.

I love this time of year.

I love creating a festive atmosphere in the home.

Tantalizing our senses with all kinds of seasonal goodness!

For the past few weeks, I have been Christmas shopping

and collecting a few new ornaments.

My husband always thanks me for doing the “wifey” duties.

He is certain that Christmas shopping and decorating is so hard.

Who am I to correct him?

I just smile and act as if I am exhausted,

and usually I can get a kiss and a foot rub out of it. J

Between you and me…

I LOVE Christmas shopping and decorating.

This morning, enjoyed myself as I pulled out the Santa hats, stockings, the snowman cookie jar, plates and mugs.

The nativity sets, the snow globes, village houses and the Christmas trees

(although the trees will be left untouched until the kids come home.)

I hung the mistletoe in the hallway and displayed the new Santa pictures in the kitchen.

To the front porch, I added the little sign that I painted a few weeks ago,

and I loved it.

I love it all.

The gold.

The glitter.

The bright red and green colors complimenting the snowy, fuzzy whites.

I love the glittering star that goes on top of the Christmas tree

and the little Santa that greets our guests.

I love the red bows that hang on our kitchen chairs,

but most of all I love the little brown jacket.

Yes, that little brown jacket is so full of magic.

It isn’t fancy or festive.

It isn’t traditional holiday décor,

but it IS my most favorite Christmas possession of all.

Each year, when I bring out my decorations this little brown jacket comes out with them.

This little jacket takes me back to my childhood.

I will never forget waking up early Christmas day

along with my brothers to look at our gifts from Santa.

My grandparents would always drive to our house early in the morning, long before the sun would come out to watch us open our gifts.

Grandpa and Grandma Romero, Grandma and Grandpa Burke

always sat behind us “ooh-ing” and “aah-ing” as we unwrapped our gifts.

That first Christmas without my Grandpa Romero was a hard one.

I was so used to having him there with us and I wasn’t ready for that tradition to stop.

Since moving out of my parents’ house, it has become a tradition for me to pull out Grandpa’s brown jacket and drape it somewhere near my Christmas tree.

It is my way of inviting Grandpa to my house for the holidays.

I like to think that these days on Christmas morning,

Grandpa watches me - watching my kids - open their presents.

When I think of Christmas,

I think of presents, pine trees,

turkey and mistletoe.

I think of cold weather, Jesus,

giving, gathering and family…

and

I think of magic.

The magic of Christmas arrived at my house today,

in the form of a little brown jacket.

Happy Birthday Dad!

2011-11-16T09:18:00.000-07:00

“I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father's protection.”

-Sigmund Freud

“The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.”

-David O. McKay

“When a man has done his best, has given his all, and in the process supplied the needs of his family and his society, that man has made a habit of succeeding.”

-Mack R. Douglas

Thank you Dad,

for doing all of the above

& then some!

I love you <3

The Chew

2011-11-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

The Chew

has become one of my favorite shows on television.

I love the variety of recipes that they offer.

I love the tips they share that make cooking and baking

healthier and easier.

I love how they mix in current events...

but the best part,

just might be

the cast.

I mean,

I am, really, loving the cast!

I have my favorite TV shows that I like to watch,

but I have never been a faithful viewer when it comes to talk shows,

cooking shows, or reality shows.

It's different with The Chew.
They have my attention.

The show is like a big crock pot of
YUMMY

that keeps me coming back for more.

The cast members' personalities compliment each other so well.

It's hard to find a show where all of the cast members are likable,

and have such great chemistry together,

but The Chew has done it.

Clint

...from current events to food, he is just so passionate! (He is the reason I checked the show out in the first place, because I enjoy What Not to Wear!)

Daphne

...a sweetheart that adds lots of facts and lots of giggles to the show ~ a real treat.

Mario

... Mr. Chill... has a laid back personality, but is a super genius in the kitchen!

Michael

...is also very talented, but I'm especially loving his silly personality and the fact that he laughs at every ones jokes - including his own!

Carla

...the dessert queen. She is down to earth and honest,
she could be compared to 'the sprinkles on top.'
A fun bonus to the show.

So if you haven't caught an episode yet,
I recommend set your DVR to record an episode on ABC
or log onto the
The Chew !

Happy Chews-day friends.

Snowman Pancakes & Porcupine Wives

2011-11-13T17:06:00.001-07:00

I saw this on

Pinterest.

My kids love pancakes,

& I love a chance to create,

so I had to try...

They came out so cute!

Also, I wanted to share a post that I read a few days ago.

Are You A Porcupine Wife?

I am happy to say,

I am NOT a porcupine wife.

I may have my (less than perfect;) days,

but I know that

I make a choice

to be intentional in my marriage

everyday.

That's the beauty

of God & growth.

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

Each of us has that right, that possibility, to invent ourselves daily. Maya Angelou

When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you, understanding will keep you. Proverbs 2:10-11

Happy Sunday!

Keeping Jesus in My Corner

2011-11-11T10:49:00.005-07:00

The other night my sleep was interrupted

by some rustling noises coming from the corner of my bedroom.

My daughter was asleep on the floor,

so I jumped up and made her crawl into our bed.

A mouse!

Could it be a mouse?!

For a moment,

I thought it was a possibility!

Then I remembered the two little robo hamsters

we bought for our girls just days before.

I dragged myself half asleep to Jocelyn's room

to check on them

and sure enough one of the little critters escaped from the cage.

First thing that morning,

Jocelyn and I caught the little hamster

-who hadn't moved all night-

and put her back into her cage.

This is the 3rd time one of Jocelyn's hamsters has woken me up

in the middle of the night.

Why do they always end up in my corner in the middle of the night? I mumbled.

The laundry room and two other bedrooms in the house had their doors wide open,

but for some reason the hamsters always end up in the same place.

My corner of the house.

It was so thankful to have caught her,

because the salesgirl at Petco made it sound as though robo hamsters

are not to be held. She said their instinct is to escape and

when they get loose it's almost impossible to find them.

We got lucky!

Later, as we were eating breakfast

my daughter was reading me a story from her school book.

I had her put it down to finish her cereal,

and said we would continue reading it later.

She checked the page number,

"316." She said.

"316?" I repeated. "That reminds me of John 3:16."

I looked up the verse and read it to her.

"I wonder if that verse popped into my mind for a reason?"

"No, Mom." She said matter-of-factly, "it's just a page I stopped on."

"Hmmm. You said 316 and then this verse popped into my head.

I think there was a reason."

"Mom, it just happened, there was no reason."

"Oh, if you ask me, there is always a reason.

Bible verses make their way into my head,

because I care about them.

Yep, Jesus is the reason.

I keep Jesus in my corner, and He keeps me in His.

That has to be why those furry little creatures keep ending up in my corner.

My corner is a safe place to be! ;)

This Little Life of Mine...

A Mother's Legacy & a Well-Behaved Mouse

DIY - Dinner Tray Makeover

What a Gift, Your Friendship & Bread

Between You and Me

Chocolate Stuffed French Toast

Inner Beauty, Outer Beauty & Taking Time for Me...

A Straight Path

Melt me. Mold me. Fill me . Use me.

The Best Relationships

Intentional Parenting: Chore Charts

Who Are You Making Time For?

The Girl in the Mirror

Choose Happiness

Valentine's Day Mailboxes

What Am I Invested In?

Marriage Mondays: Keeping Score

Project: Decorative Baskets

Proud Mommy Moments: Poems by Jocelyn

Home Decorating Updates

Things I Have Learned

Apple pie is healthy, it has fruit doesn't it?!

Home Improvements: DIY Bench

A Brand New Year!

A snowman. A liar. A birthday.

Your Presence is Invaluable

*Christmas* The Little Brown Jacket

Happy Birthday Dad!

The Chew

Snowman Pancakes & Porcupine Wives

Keeping Jesus in My Corner

Christmas The Little Brown Jacket