What changes time brings!

SCHOOL -- 1957 vs. 2007

Scenario: Jack goes quail hunting before school, pulls into school parking lot with shotgun in gun rack.
1957 - Vice Principal comes over, looks at Jack's shotgun, goes to his car and gets his shotgun to show Jack.
2007 - School goes into lock down, FBI called, Jack hauled off to jail and never sees his truck or gun again. Counsellors called in for traumatized students and teachers.

Scenario: Johnny and Mark get into a fistfight after school.
1957 - Crowd gathers. Mark wins. Johnny and Mark shake hands and end up buddies.
2007 - Police called, SWAT team arrives, arrests Johnny and Mark. Charge them with assault, both expelled even though Johnny started it.

Scenario: Jeffrey won't be still in class, disrupts other students.
1957 - Jeffrey sent to office and given a good paddling by the Principal. Returns to class, sits still and does not disrupt class again.
2007 - Jeffrey given huge doses of Ritalin. Becomes a zombie. Tested for ADD. School gets extra money from state because Jeffrey has a disability.

Scenario: Billy breaks a window in his neighbor's car and his Dad gives him a whipping with his belt.
1957 - Billy is more careful next time, grows up normal, goes to college, and becomes a successful businessman.
2007 - Billy's dad is arrested for child abuse. Billy removed to foster care and joins a gang. State psychologist tells Billy's sister that she remembers being abused herself and their dad goes to prison. Billy's mom has affair with psychologist.

Scenario: Mark gets a headache and takes some aspirin to school.
1957 - Mark shares aspirin with Principal out on the smoking dock.
2007 - Police called, Mark expelled from school for drug violations. Car searched for drugs and weapons.

Scenario: Pedro fails high school English.
1957 - Pedro goes to summer school, passes English, goes to college.
2007 - Pedro's cause is taken up by state. Newspaper articles appear nationally explaining that teaching English as a requirement for graduation is racist. ACLU files class action lawsuit against state school system and Pedro's English teacher. English banned from core curriculum. Pedro given diploma anyway but ends up mowing lawns for a living because he cannot speak English.

Scenario: Johnny takes apart leftover firecrackers from 4th of July, puts them in a model airplane paint bottle, blows up a red ant bed.
1957 - Ants die.
2007 - BATF, Homeland Security, FBI called. Johnny charged with domestic terrorism, FBI investigates parents, siblings removed from home, computers confiscated, Johnny's Dad goes on a terror watch list and is never allowed to fly again.

Scenario: Johnny falls while running during recess and scrapes his knee. He is found crying by his teacher, Mary. Mary hugs him to comfort him.
1957 - In a short time, Johnny feels better and goes on playing.
2007 - Mary is accused of being a sexual predator and loses her job. She faces 3 years in State Prison. Johnny undergoes 5 years of therapy.

A Kitchen Tip

I took some time today to bake banana bread. I have a lot of over-ripe bananas that find a home in my freezer. I've learned that if I'll peel them and put them directly into a baggie, it's SO much easier when it comes around to baking time. Once it defrosts, I can mash it in the bag and avoid the mess of using a fork. (I've had too many times that the bananas "migrated" to the counter while I was trying to mash them up!!!) Anyway, it's a simple tip that you are probably already using, but it works for me!!!

Something Accomplished!!

I finally have my shelves set up in the newly-added laundry room! YAY!!! I'm so excited to get my stockpile out of my ONE hall shelf unit and into the pantry shelves. I was able to clear a drawer in my kitchen as well. I plan to use that space to store my coupon folder, ads, calculator, etc--basically, everything to do with my frugal shopping adventures!! They have previously been stored on my tabletop...obviously NOT my favorite choice for storage seeing as we really need the table for meal time. :) I'm just so glad that at least one thing is starting to come together into organized, neat sense!

As you can see, the Lord has so blessed us with a good supply of toiletries, some groceries and LOTS of juice (thank you , Kroger!!) It is all going to be coming in handy since my husband is being required to take days off from work this month. This will be the first time since we got married that he hasn't had full time work. But through it all, God is blessing us and giving much grace to trust Him for every need. Learning to CVS and use coupons, learning to search the ads for good deals--The Lord has timed it all perfectly that I would be prepared to meet my family's needs during these coming difficult months. God is so good to us!!!!

Coupon Inserts

If you'd like the Red Plum(Valassis) insert delivered directly to your door, go here and fill out a simple form! Thank you to Nichole for sharing this with me.

I found the poem below while I was visiting a new blog today. I was so blessed to read it! It's words give life to my struggles lately. I pray that I am learning the truth that God's way are good, and above all, are meant to mold me into His image. May I continue in faith, relying solely on the grace of Jesus to carry me through and enable me to walk when the path is dark and trust when the night seems unending.

Paradoxes of Prayer

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve.

I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey......

I asked for health, that I might do greater things.

I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.....

I asked for riches, that I might be happy.

I was given poverty that I might be wise......

I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men.

I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God.....

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life.

I was given life, that I might enjoy all things......

I got nothing that I asked for-

but everything I had hoped for.

Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered-

I am among all, most richly blessed!

~Author Unknown~

Be Still My Soul

Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side.

Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain.

Leave to thy God to order and provide;

In every change, He faithful will remain.

Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend

Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.


Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake

To guide the future, as He has the past.

Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;

All now mysterious shall be bright at last.

Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know

His voice Who ruled them while He dwelt below.


Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,

And all is darkened in the vale of tears,

Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,

Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.

Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay

From His own fullness all He takes away.


Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on

When we shall be forever with the Lord.

When disappointment, grief and fear are gone,

Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.

Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past

All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.


Be still, my soul: begin the song of praise

On earth, believing, to Thy Lord on high;

Acknowledge Him in all thy words and ways,

So shall He view thee with a well pleased eye.

Be still, my soul: the Sun of life divine

Through passing clouds shall but more brightly shine.

Explanations

I know that my blog hasn't had a lot of regular posts the last couple weeks. I've been busy with staying busy. This time in March is always difficult for us, and there was only so much I felt that I could keep sharing here on the blog.

I've also been so burdened for Kristy, the young lady who lost her husband this weekend. The Lord will not allow me to forget her plight. Also, not something I could just keep posting about.

Motherhood has been requiring an increasing amount of my time, not that it ever stops taking time, but it seems to be harder these days. Maybe it's me--maybe it's the fact that my three-year old has needed so much extra care and discipline and training lately. Whatever the causes, I've been burdened and not felt able to share a lot of my thoughts publicly.

There are so many areas in which the Lord is dealing with me. My heart has not been right. But I'm beginning to see that repentance and grace are evident each day. Am I still struggling with my areas of weakness? Yes, sometimes, but the Lord remains faithful and is teaching me and convicting me and never leaving me alone. I thank Him for that.

So, be patient with me! The care-free posts about saving and shopping have just not been that important to me with all the serious issues I/we have been handling. I'll try to include more of that as I can, but I also want to be careful to use wisely what time I have and not allow this blog or any others to eat up every moment of my day. I'm beginning to learn more clearly what it means to think on the things of Christ continually and to be the Christian wife and mother I am meant to be, and I don't want to give that up or lose that conviction by becoming too wrapped up in keeping things fresh here. I hope you understand.

Mourn with those who mourn--

Please, please pray for this dear young lady! She lost her husband of only 10 weeks to a tragic boating accident. She's hurting and stunned and in need of the prayers of the saints during this time. You can read more about her here.

Another year of life

We had a good weekend. There were a lot of memories and some sadness, but there was also a lot of fun time just being together. This is the first year that I truly laughed on my daughter's birthday. My baby boy is to be credited for that accomplishment! How precious these two boys are that the Lord has given us!

My husband and I spent all day Saturday spending time together and celebrating my birthday. It's today! The Lord has blessed me with 27 years filled with blessings, goodness, love and joy. Every moment has been directed by God and orchestrated for His glory! My prayer for this year is that I will be renewed in my commitment to godliness and to living as if today were my last day. Thank you, Father, for another year to live for You.

Abigail

Happy Birthday, Baby Girl

We miss you.

Comfort

Below are a few of the songs that the Lord has used to bring me comfort so many times throughout the last five years. Take the time to read the words and think of the Scriptures that are the source of their message. May the lyrics bless you as they have blessed me, and may the Lord use them to strengthen you if you too are in a difficult place today.

Who Am I--Casting Crowns

Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth
Would care to know my name
Would care to feel my hurt
Who am I, that the Bright and Morning Star
Would choose to light the way
For my ever wandering heart

Not because of who I am
But because of what You've done
Not because of what I've done
But because of who You're

I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
A vapor in the wind

Still You hear me when I'm calling
Lord, You catch me when I'm falling
And You've told me who I am
I am Yours, I am Yours

Who Am I, that the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love and watch me rise again
Who Am I, that the voice that calmed the sea
Would call out through the rain
And calm the storm in me

I am Yours
Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear
'Cause I am Yours
I am Yours

Praise You In The Storm--Casting Crowns

I was sure by now God
You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to you
And you raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You

But as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth

Homesick

You’re in a better place, I’ve heard a thousand times
And at least a thousand times I’ve rejoiced for you
But the reason why I’m broken the reason why I cry
Is how long must I wait to be with you

I close my eyes and I see your face
If home’s where my heart is then I’m out of place
Lord won’t you give me strength to make it through somehow
I‘ve never been more homesick than now

Help me Lord because I don’t understand Your ways
The reason why I wonder if I’ll ever know
But even if You showed me the hurt would be the same
Because I’m still here so far away from home

Chorus

In Christ there are no goodbyes
In Christ there is no end
So I’ll hold onto Jesus with all that I have
To see you again

words and music by MercyMe and Peter Kipley

Five Years Ago

I was thirty-nine weeks pregnant with our first baby. After two miscarriages within six months, the pregnancy was so exciting for us. But it was to all come crashing down.

No heartbeat--No fetal movement--No joyous ending to the long nine months, only tears and pain. Our daughter would never draw a breath or open her eyes. She would only ever be a memory that we carry still in our hearts.

I'm not sure sometimes how my husband and I made it through those first days. I know that God's presence was almost tangible at times when I thought the tears were going to destroy me. I know that Jesus was there with me every moment, even when the anger and bitterness began to come. I didn't know if I was ever going to be able to move on and be happy again. But as always, my Lord remained faithful. He kept me through every stage of grief. He brought me out of the darkness and confusion of loss. When the pain led to sin, He forgave and comforted me and drew me back to His side. His hands guided and kept us. His grace preserved our love for each other and protected our marriage. His wisdom led us through, and His sovereignty gave us two sons.

Hosea 6:1
Come, and let us return to the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.

Psalm 115:3
But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.

Joshua 1:9
...Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. (Even through death and pain!!!)

Psalm 28:7
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.

Psalm 27:14
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.

WFMW--Rocks in My Dryer

Just another link-up. I'm going to attempt to start posting sometimes for the Works For Me Wednesday blog carnival. Check it out at Rocks In My Dryer for a lot of great tips and ideas! My post below is my first entry!! Yay!! I'm excited! :)

CVS helps

Once again, my adventures in CVS have made it possible to help someone. I was able to put together two large bags of household goods to give to a family in need! This is definitely the best reason to learn to shop frugally--the ability to share with others. Though we are not often able to financially help someone, my stockpile of CVS products allows us to be generous in giving towards needs that arise within our church and among our friends.

May I encourage you to venture out and begin to learn to shop this way if you have not already started?? It's been a fun experience! Above all, it's been a great way that I've been able to be a help to my husband and others.

So, go on over to Money Saving Mom to check out her CVS tutorials, or better yet, check out Supermarket Savings for a collection of e-books to get you started. Both have worked for me and are great ways to start learning the ropes!

4:53 am

Ok, linking up here!

4:53 am

A great blog that I've just started visiting! Check it out for some really creative posts. You'll enjoy the experience, believe me.

Frugal Fridays-Freebies

I am signed up to receive Cereal.com's newsletter which is always full of links to free samples. I also regularly check Walmart.com. Both are a great way to get started receiving free samples in the mail. If you fill out one or two of these free sample forms each day, you'll start to get little surprises in your mail box! Nothing's better than FREE!!!

Quaker Simple Harvest Sample

Glad ForceFlex Trash Bag

Jergen's Natural Glow Body Moisturizer

Garnier Nutritioniste Ultra-Lift

Dove Hair Care

Curel Life's Stages Moisturizer

My CVS-ing Update

There has been a decided lack of "deals from CVS" posts on my blog lately. Let me explain.

Honestly, I'm a big bit bummed about them cancelling all the cool coupons we've been using. I mostly have been trading in my few ECBs for the same amount of ECBs.

I've had trouble getting a regular supply of manufacturer's coupons to make it worth the effort of getting both my boys in and out of the store with my sanity intact. Don't get me wrong. They are generally well-behaved boys, but still, it's hard to sit that long when mommy's shopping. Ryan has gotten to yelling "NO!!" in a horrified tone as soon as he realizes we are going to CVS.

But, I digress.

I subscribed to the local paper hoping that would cure the serious lack of coupons in the paper bought off the stand, but alas, it did not. They still only put in a skinny little insert with not even half of the coupons to be found in a big city Sunday paper. I'm so cancelling my subscription. Making a note to self....

What are my options???? I don't live in an area where I can readily pick up a paper on a weekly basis. The local grocery store carries the Houston paper, but if you're not there EARLY Sunday morning, they run out. Doesn't work too well for me. I guess I'm going to be looking into getting a subscription to the Ft. Worth, Dallas or San Antonio paper. I hope it's worth the money.

Also, with the exception of last week, the deals lately just haven't appealed to me. I'm stocked up on all the essentials, so it just hasn't been worth the effort. I wanted to go last week, but with my parents leaving and our travelling, it just didn't work out.

So, when and if I get more motivated to regularly tackle CVS-ing, I'll post pictures and reports on how I'm doing. Until then, go check out Money Saving Mom and A Call To Higher Places for good deals and encouragement on getting started for yourself.

Sunset over Memory Lake

Learning to Fish

Daddy time!

My guys!

My precious sons

Little boys are fun!

My husband just came home with a little boy size fishing rod. Ryan's so excited, explaining how it all works to me and how Daddy's going to take him fishing! It's wonderful to see him that happy. I was invited to go along, but I'm thinking they'll have so much more fun having a father/son outing! My only regret is that my camera, which has been hiding in my side table since we moved, has a dead battery. Oh, well! Maybe next time they get decked out to go, I'll have it handy. We can pretend they're the first pictures. :)

Brandon is trying to walk. The results? Bumps and bruises galore! It's hard to be a boy, but it's a good thing to have the combination of Horner and Walker hard-headedness! hehe It's coming in handy these days! I'm hoping he survives this transition with only bruises and nothing worse. With Ryan stepping in to "help," there's no telling what could happen! Baby boys should come with warning labels--WARNING: Likely to cause premature graying, wrinkles and the sensation of heart attacks on a regular basis! Ah, but I wouldn't trade them in for anything in this world!

Quick question

Does anyone participate in the Box Tops program? If you do, let me know how it's working for you and how you go about getting the tops turned in. I'm new to all this, but since I've been getting so many brand name items for little money, I have started collecting the tops. Let me know! And if you don't participate and want to donate your tops to me, that would be GREAT!!!!

ONE YEAR!!

Happy anniversary, Steven and Nichole!! Can't believe it's already been a year! Awesome! We love you guys! We'll miss seeing you, but hope you have a great time away this weekend!

Looking Back--Looking Ahead

It's almost two years since I first started this blog. My first post seems so long ago! I've had fun along the way, learning new things, exploring this amazing world of blogs!
I hope to begin to post some more meaningful thoughts and not just run of the mill, this is what's going on right now posts! I want to share more of the spiritual side of my life, my struggles and growth in the areas of Christian womanhood and motherhood. We'll see! I have to first get a handle on my time and get more organized with my daily routines. Lots of changes are taking place in our lives these days, and I'm having more responsibilities to consider and factor into the equation that is my life. So, stay tuned! You never know what may yet appear here at Rebekah's Thots!

Ideas

Ok, I've decided that my blog is getting downright BORING!!! I think every other post is about the same thing. I definitely need to get some new ideas flowing. Any ideas for me to consider???

Thank you to everyone who's prayed for and asked about Alarice. She is home now and beginning her recovery. Please continue to pray for her and the whole family.

Sickness, sickness, sickness! Both my boys have gone through another bout of the severe cold that's been hanging around for so long. We had three days of fever with each of them and they are both still coughing and have runny noses. I'm so looking forward to spring coming! I'm hoping it will bring an end to all this sickness when it ushers in the new season.

To complicate my life even more, :) my computer decided to get "sick" too and come down with a severe case of the trojans!!!! Thankfully, after three days of intense therapy (Thanks, Manu) it's back up and running better than before.

I didn't realize over the past year or so how much "free" time I actually had because of staying in my parents house! It's amazing me how much there is still left to do to get my new home up to par. With all the sickness, travelling and a multitude of other interruptions, we are slowly getting things together. This past weekend, my hubby and I spent the day going through stacks and stacks of boxes and organizing things into store, sell, and trash piles. Needless to say, we are all set to have a HUGE yard sale at the beginning of next month. Yay for progress!! hehe

I still have nothing hanging on my walls, but that's our next Saturday project. I'm hoping it will be next week since we will once again be in San Antonio this weekend.

A quick prayer request before I sign off for now--

My parents, Pat and Dianne Horner, will be flying out tomorrow afternoon to return to the mission field. Please keep them in prayer as this trip holds more challenges and difficulties than ever before. We trust that the Lord who sends them also goes before them to provide for every need that arises!

Prayer Request update

I'm sorry that I wasn't able to post this sooner, but I thank all of you who have been praying for Dean and Alarice during this time.

Baby Lydia Grace was delivered by emergency C-section yesterday afternoon. Alarice was suffering not just from the flu, but also from pneumonia. She did not have the strength for a regular delivery, but thank the Lord, medical intervention probably saved her life and the baby's life yesterday! Her doctor had her stay overnight in ICU, but was confident that she would be able to be moved to a regular room near her daughter today. As of yesterday evening, she was stable and seemed to be in really good spirits, trusting that the events of this birth were in God's hand and thanking God for the safe delivery of Lydia.

For those who like to know the details, little Lydia weighed 6lbs, 2oz, 19 inches long and seemed to be doing very well in spite of the trying delivery. She's absolutely beautiful! I was blessed to hold her a while yesterday.

Please continue to pray for this family. Alarice has a long recovery in front of her as she fights off the pneumonia, heals from the surgery and begins life with her newborn daughter!

Please pray!!!!

My friend Alarice is in the hospital this morning being induced. She came down with the flu and has been running fever. When she went to her OB yesterday to be checked out, he admitted her because her BP was too high and the baby's heartbeat was also too high. She is just 37 weeks today. Please pray for her!! Labor is never easy, but the flu, little rest and being concerned for your child's well-being make it that much harder.

I did talk to her husband Dean this morning. Her BP and the baby's heartbeat are finally stabilized, and Alarice is resting a little thanks to an epidural. Pray that the Lord would give them both great peace and bring her and baby Lydia safely through this day.

Had to share!

This is an email forward I received from my dh--had to share it!


In Florida , an atheist became incensed over the preparation of Easter and Passover holidays.

He decided to contact his lawyer about the discrimination inflicted on atheists by the constant celebrations afforded to Christians and Jews with all their holidays while atheists had no holiday to celebrate.

The case was brought before a judge. After listening to the long passionate presentation by the lawyer, the Judge banged his gavel and declared, 'Case Dismissed!'

The lawyer immediately stood and objected to the ruling and said, 'Your honor, how can you possibly dismiss this case? The Christians have Christmas, Easter and many other observances. Jews have Passover, Yom Kippur and Hanukkah...yet my client and all other atheists have no such holiday!'

The judge leaned forward in his chair and simply said, 'Obviously your client is too confused to even know about, much less celebrate his own atheists' holiday!'

The lawyer pompously said, 'Your Honor, we are unaware of any such holiday for atheists. Just when might that holiday be, your Honor?'

The judge said, 'Well it comes every year on exactly the same date---April 1st! Since our calendar sets April 1st as 'April Fools Day,' consider that Psalm 14:1 states, 'The fool says in his heart, there is no God.' Thus, in my opinion, if your client says there is no God, then by scripture, he is a fool, and April 1st is his holiday! Now have a good day and get out of my courtroom!!

Jumbled Thots-Input requested!

I've had a bit of a blogging block! I usually have post ideas constantly rolling around in my head, but the last several days, I've been blank. It could be contributed to my sleep-deprived state, or maybe my life has been too busy--maybe both!

Last week, I was only home two days because of a day of doctor appointments and a short trip to San Antonio. Crazy!!!

I have a question for the more experienced moms who may stop here. How do you deal with your infant's constipation??? My poor Brandon has now swung to the other side of the pendulum! I've been feeding him table food/baby food more often, and he's just not doing well with it. I need ideas!

By the way, one of those doctor appointments last week was Brandon's heart check-up. Thank the Lord! He is still doing well. They did not even have to do an echocardiogram! Yay! He won't have to go back for another six months. I'm so thankful that the procedure is holding, and our baby won't have to go through that trauma again. The Lord is good!

Guess I'll sign off for now! See you the next time I get some inspiration. :-)

An ironic view to a current event that affects us all

I live in a border state.
My brother is a Border Patrol Agent.
This is a very serious issue to me and to my family.
I'm all for legal immigration. I am completely in support of a border fence and some major revamping of our policies allowing illegal immigrants access to American benefits. In my mind, until you have earned the right to call yourself an American, you have no right to our freedoms and our benefits!!! I understand that there is no easy way to deal with the current population of illegals, but something does need to be done--something that does not inculde amnesty for all. So, with that little rant out of the way, here's an interesting and accurate take on the whole situation. I don't know who wrote this or started it going along the email lines, but thank you to whoever you are! You are right on target. That last line sums up my attitude exactly!!!!!

Let's Say I Break Into Your House

Recently large demonstrations have taken place across the country protesting the fact that Congress is finally addressing the issue of illegal immigration. Certain people are angry that the US might protect its own borders, might make it harder to sneak into this country and, once here, to stay indefinitely.

Let me see if I correctly understand the thinking behind these protests.
Let's say I break into your house.
Let's say that when you discover me in your house, you insist that I leave. But I say, "No! I like it here. It's better than my house. I've made all the beds and washed the dishes and did the laundry and swept the floors. I've done all the things you don't like to do. I'm hard-working and honest (except for when I broke into your house.)

According to the protesters:

You are Required to let me stay in your house.
You are Required to feed me.
You are Required to add me to your family's insurance plan.
You are Required to Educate my kids.
You are Required to Provide other benefits to me & to my family. (My husband will do all of your yard work because he is also hard-working and honest, except for that breaking in part.)

If you try to call the police or force me out, I will call my friends who will picket your house carrying signs that proclaim my RIGHT to be there.
It's only fair, after all, because you have a nicer house than I do, and I'm just trying to better myself. I'm a hard-working and honest, person, except for well, you know, I did break into your house And what a deal it is for me!!! I live in your house, contributing only a fraction of the cost of my keep, and there is nothing you can do about it without being accused of cold, uncaring, selfish, prejudiced, and bigoted behavior.

Oh yeah, I DEMAND that you learn MY LANGUAGE!!! so you can communicate with me.

Why can't people see how ridiculous this is?!

Some Great Tips!

I saw these ideas over at Sense to Save and asked her to let me share them here. I particularly can't wait to try the tips about mosquitoes and static cling. Have any of you tried these and had them work? Let us know with a comment!


Expanding Frosting :
When you buy a container of cake frosting from the store , whip it with your mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size. You get to frost more cake/cupcakes with the same amount. You also eat less sugar and calories per serving.

No More Mosquitoes :
Place a dryer sheet in your pocket. It will keep the mosquitoes away.

Flexible vacuum nozzle :
To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.

Reducing Static Cling :
Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will not have a clingy skirt or dress. Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and — ta da! — static is gone.

Measuring Cups clean up :
Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water. Dump out the hot water, but don’t dry cup. Next, add your ingredient, such as peanut butter, and watch how easily it comes right out.

Hate foggy windshields?:
Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car. When the windows fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!

Reopening envelope :
If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside , just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Viola! It unseals easily .

A new baby in our family!

YAY!!! We're going to have another baby in the family, and NO, IT'S NOT ME!! Steven's sister, Erin, is expecting. We are so happy for her, and very glad not to be the ones giving another grandchild! :)

Congratulations, Erin and Jeremy! We can't wait until you bring that little one home for us to meet!

For my Valentine

To my husband--

Things are not always easy. We've been through times of loss and deep hurting. We've seen the light of morning and held our sweet boys. We've known the best of each other. We've known the worst of each other. Through it all, you've been my friend, my love and my husband.

Today is a day to remember those times and remember most of all how much our marriage means to me. Thank you for your wonderful care for me and for our children. Thank you for standing beside me always and never giving up.

Happy Valentine's day! I love you--today and always!

Encouragement for expectant/new mothers

Girl Talk's series is dealing with postpartum issues today. It was a special encouragement for me because I have dealt with this struggle after each of my miscarriages and after all three of my pregnancies. It is somehow comforting to know that we are not alone in our struggles and that the Lord never intended us to deal with our womanly trials on our own. May we all take this encouragement and seek to see every trial through God's eyes and not our own.

A GOOD DEAL!

Girl Talk's PMS Prep

This is a subject that is so vital to a Christian woman. How do we serve and love our families when we are bombarded by our own bodies? How do we continue to love our husbands and care for our children with kindness and gentleness when we are overwhelmed with the hormonal ups and downs that accompany PMS, menopause, postpartum or morning sickness?

The girls over at GirlTalk will be doing a series on this subject. I will be tuning in to glean from their wisdom. Join me!!

Our journey to being debt-free

I've been wanting to share some of this for awhile now, so here goes!

My husband and I have been learning a lot over the last year and a half about managing our finances and getting out of debt. Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover was a great incentive for us.

We started out our marriage with no debt and no credit history, but soon fell prey to the myth that without a credit score, you can accomplish nothing in life. It wasn't long before our committment to paying off credit card balances every month wavered, and we started down the road to living in debt.

Two years ago, we were $58,000 in debt, including our house. My husband was working 50-55 hours a week consistently, and we were making it month to month, but had nothing to show for his earnings. When we decided to sale our two bedroom house in order to upgrade to a three bedroom, we came up with an amount that we felt we could finance and easily pay each month for a mortgage. Well, in the time our house was on the market, we had three contracts expire on houses that we "loved." Looking back, I see God's hand of protection over us.

By the end of the summer of 2006 when we finally did sale our house, my husband's hours had decreased enough at work that we believe we would have lost our house if it had not sold when it did. If things had worked out on one of those other homes, we really would have been in trouble!! We made a committment at that time to do away with any credit cards and do all that we had to to get out of debt and begin living on a cash basis.

Today, a year and half later, we owe less than $6000 on our used van, the last of our large debts. We also now have medical bills from our son's heart procedure, but we are slowly working our way towards being debt free. We do own another house, but we are currently renting it to a young couple until they are able to buy it from us. We are living strictly on a budget that covers all our necessities and still leaves us with a little every week for something extra. We are saving regularly. We are being able to pay for things like moving expenses in cash that we have set aside. We've had unexpected expenses come up, but so far have been able to keep to our committment to use only cash. True, we don't have as much set back as we would hope to have, but we're not in any greater debt because of these emergencies.

We are looking to our future. A future of being able to help others. A future that includes being able to provide for our children's future and even our grandchildren. So many things have worked together to get us to place where we are today--hard work, giving up what we truly didn't need, the generosity of my parents to give us a place to live for over a year while we got back on our feet, and most importantly, the provisions of our God on our behalf.

Let me share a little about that. I had done a lot of thinking and praying about how I could help with our finances, especially in the area of cutting back our grocery/household expenses.

The main area I continue to work at is contentment with what I do have. I often fall short in this area, especially when it comes to clothes and those little extras. I'm a self-proclaimed lover of shopping and coffee--both of which are expensive hobbies if I'm not careful!!! I'm learning to do without and shop only sales when I really NEED something new.

The second area that has changed so much and has been such a great encouragement to me is CVS!!!! Learning to shop their sales and ECB deals has been awesome! I now have such a stockpile of household goods, including diapers and wipes, that I have not been to Walmart but a handful of times since Christmas. It's amazing my husband! hehe

I've been able to take what I have learned and share it with friends. I actually held a "how to CVS" class at one of our ladies' luncheons a few weeks ago. I love that I now have enough product set aside to be able to help someone if a need arises without worrying about being able to pay for our own grocery needs too.

I'm learning to use coupons here at our small town grocery store that has some really good sales every week. I've been able to put back gallons of milk and pounds and pounds of meat because of shopping sales.

The Lord has been so good to teach me and show me these things. I'm still learning so much in all these areas, but I can say without a doubt that it's worth it, especially when we're able to pay off that last bill and shout from the roof top that we are DEBT FREE!!! That truly will be FREEDOM!!!!!!!!!

Doctor visits, eczema, ear infection, baby teeth and NOT ENOUGH SLEEP!

This is life as a mother.

Brandon's been "off" for over a week now. I've been fighting a losing battle with invasive eczema for months. Steven, who's had enough of me putting off going to the doctor for myself, told me in no uncertain terms to make appointments for both of us. (Thank you, honey, for making me take care of myself too!) So, with a 3:30PM and 7:00PM appointment, we left for Abilene yesterday afternoon. One hundred fifty dollars and nearly eight hours later, we were finally back home.

Brandon's evening appointment at the pediatric clinic included sitting in the waiting room for more than an hour, a diagnoses of another ear infection, and oh, the not-to-be-forgotten instructions on how to obtain a stool sample!! Yes, my poor, sweet baby is having tummy trouble that can't be easily explained. Not wanting to get into TMI territory, I'll leave it at that.

I, on the other hand, had a relatively painless appointment with a doctor I actually like! I do however have a condition that can't be "cured" by any means known to good AMA doctors. So, I was given three prescriptions. Even with insurance, one cost over $80!!! Now, I was all for just not getting it, but my husband, being the loving and caring man that he is, insisted that I get it since it will help with the constant itching and irritation on my scalp from the eczema. Ugh! Do you know how horrible it is to itch constantly??? I don't wish it on anyone.

Back to Brandon and our night together. I honestly don't know how many times I was up with him. I lost countafter the third or fourth time. I do know that I'M TIRED!!!! The little guy can barely breathe through the stuffy nose and was miserable most of the night with fever and pain from his ear, not to mention the tummy troubles. To round things off, I discovered that he's also cutting two top teeth right now!

So, to those of you out there who may think that motherhood is sissy stuff and stay-at-home moms "don't work", let me let you in on a secret. YOU'RE WRONG!!! Please understand that I wouldn't trade my life as a wife and mother for anything, but there aren't too many other occupations I know of that involve constant lack of sleep, absolutely NO time off, and requirements to be on-call 24/7. So, next time you see a tired mother with her hands full in the store, don't be critical. Consider offering a helping hand instead, remembering that you never know what her life is truly like until you've walked in her shoes!

A Favorite

I have long been a fan of good Christian music, and I don't only mean hymns! I just thought I'd share this link for Casting Crowns with everyone. Enjoy!!

The past several weeks-Recap

Ok, let's see....

We moved into our new home right after Thanksgiving.

I still have boxes to go through and seperate for a yard sale. Just this past weekend, I was able to clear enough room to get my computer desk set up, thus this post is possible. I'm still figuring out the storage/organizing for my new spaces, and with my two boys in constant tow, it's always fun to find time to finish anything/everything on my list of to-do's.

The week that we planned to be in the house and get settled, my husband and both boys came down with colds, resulting in moving, but not too much settling being accomplished. Then came holidays and all the preperations that go into gift-giving, out-of-town trips and meal planning.


Since we always travel to San Antonio for Christmas, this year being no different, I had to make sure everything was wrapped and packed and ready to be transported. This year was especially fun because I also planned/organized/cooked for the Christmas Day dinner. Fun to do when you're 250 miles away!!! :) Not that I'm complaining because we had a wonderful time, and it was actually a relatively peaceful day considering I was sick with coughing, sore throat, headaches and all-around miserable!!


Yep, that's right!!! The Friday we were set to leave on our trip, I woke up with the dreaded cold my family and friends had been fighting for weeks. To top things off, Brandon also came down with it and added an ear infection to the above list of symptoms!! We left the day after Christmas and drove him directly to the doctor to be checked out. Within a few says, Ryan also got sick, and not to be out-done by Brandon, came down with an ear infection too!!! So, with two little ones sick and on antibiotics, I didn't do much beside keeping everyone fed and the clothes washed. Notice I said washed, not folded, ironed and organized! :)

Anyway, after lots of sickness, not having a washer or a dryer hooked up for several weeks, and a multitude of other distractions, I'm hoping for some stay-at-home, do-regular-things, not-have-to-juggle-a-million-things time!!!!

I'd like to work on curtains for my house. I think I'm going to take the plunge and attempt to make some by hand. I haven't made anything on my own, so it will be a new endeavor for me. I'm looking forward to it. I'll try to take pictures if it all comes out!

Ok, that'll have to do for now. I need to get my boys settled and ready for bed. Goodnight, blogging friends!

A New Baby!

Welcome to little Joseph Daniel Dodson, born yesterday morning! He weighed 7 lbs, 1 oz. Mommy and baby are doing well. Praise the Lord for His goodness and wonderful gifts!

YAY!!!

I finally have my computer all set up!!! YAYAYAYAYAYAY!!!!!
So, I'm hoping to get back into the swing of things and be posting regularly again. I hope that my faithful friends will comment to let me know they haven't given up on me coming back! :)
See you all around the blog neighborhood!

Happy New Year!!!!!

I'm still here!!

I MISS BLOGGING and my computer in general!!!
We are moved into our house, but the spare room where my computer will be set up is the holding area for boxes needing to be unpacked. Thus, my computer is still set up here at my parent's house. I'm really, really hoping to have it home with me by this weekend...we'll see!! Until then, any blogging and regular emails will be few and far between. *sigh* I'm not enjoying being disconnected from my friends.
Don't forget about me while I'm away!! :)

Simple way to share photos and videos with friends and family

Just a quick update...

I won't be able to post much the next several days because I'll be attacking the piles of boxes at my new house!

I also have two sick boys, a sick husband, and little energy due to more middle-of-the-night calls from Brandon. He's absolutely miserable with a runny nose and general cold symptoms. Do you know how hard it is to nurse when you can't breathe through your nose??? Poor little guy! I wish there was something I could do to make him better faster or at least alleviate his symptoms, but there's nothing that I can buy at the store to help him since "they" pulled all the baby meds off the shelves the last few months. I suppose the doctor could prescribe something, but I'm really trying to avoid that for now. But if he's not better by this time next week, we're for sure going in...maybe before that if we get desperate. Any tips on how I can help him to breathe better or something I can give him to help him feel better and dry up his nose? Anything would be appreciated!

Well, I'm off to turn off the chicken cooking on my stove and try to get a shower while I can. (Yes, it's VERY late to be taking a shower, but a lack of hot water combined with my fussy boys has kept me from an early shower today.)

Hopefully, if all goes well, the next time I'm able to really blog, I'll be doing so from my new house!!! YAY!!!!

A Frugal Gift Idea for Children!

For less than $25, you can give a gift that will fuel a child's imagination, creativity and curiosity for a full year! Plus, you'll get some super fun freebies too! This is a great Christmas gift idea for the children in your life.

Merchant Circle--Getting your business "out there"!

Wife and Mother--Called by God

Hello Ladies! Good morning to you all.

As I was perusing blogs today, I read this wonderful post by Crystal over at Biblical Womanhood. It was an encouragement to me to keep on in my ministry to my husband and my boys, for it is the calling placed upon me by my God. I hope you will check it out when you have a spare moment. Here's a few lines to get you started!

In answer to a question regarding seeking ministry opportunities outside of our homes, Crystal writes,


I love to reach out to others from our home as I'm able to in the little cracks of leftover time I have. This is one reason I blog and write during nap time, pray for missionaries or needy people while I'm washing dishes, or find a spare moment here and there to write an encouraging letter to someone going through a difficult time.

We're also constantly seeking ways we can minister as a family to others by having people into our home, visiting the elderly, or reaching out to our neighbors. I want to instill a servant's heart in my children by having them work alongside mommy and daddy to reach out to a lost and dying world or to hold up the arms of those who are weary in the Body of Christ....

At this point in my life, however, I don't feel like it would be right for me to regularly leave my children - even for a few hours each week - in order to reach out to others. My husband and children are my greatest outreach.

To read more, click here!

I LOVE CVS!!!!

Yesterday morning, we loaded up and headed to Abilene to do a little shopping. We mostly shopped at CVS. I've been telling my dad and mom about my adventures in savings money and stockpiling at CVS, and they've been interested in how it's done. Well, I have to say, with all the after-Thanksgiving sales going on, my mom and I both did great! The pictures below are only of what I bought, but my mom basically got the same things, with only a few variations.

I had WAY too many items to take the time to break it all down specifically, but I will tell you that between three transactions, I only spent $1.17 out of pocket!!!!! Not to shabby! :)


Nearly everything I bought earned me more ECB's. I don't know that exacts of what I had when I started, but I ended the day with about $68 in ECB's for next week. I also have the following to add to my collection of household goods and goodies!


3- 100 oz Laundry Soap (Last week I paid, $9.99 for one of these at HEB. We found them for $3.50-$3.98 on sale!!! Great deal for me, especially since my ECB's paid for them!)


4 tubes of toothpaste(all ECB earners)


3 Feminine Wash(ECB earners)


1 2-pk CVS bar soap(ECB earner)


2 bags of holiday peanut M&Ms(ECB earners)


3 boxes Hershey's dark chocolate(ECB earners)


Excedrin PM (on sale, don't remember if it earned ECB's)


Advil PM (ECB earner)


Softsoap Body Wash(ECB earner)


Johnson's Softlotion(ECB earner)


Enviga Sparkling Green Tea(ECB earner)


2 Sunmaid Raisin(Good deal on sale and MFC)


Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer(A favorite product that I haven't been able to find at Wal-mart. Paid for it with ECB's, so it was GOOD price!)


Candy Canes(Just because my hubby wanted them!)


Nova Max Blood Glucose Monitor(On sale, used $50 coupon and earned $20 ECB!!! GREAT DEAL!! FREE out of pocket.)



















All I can say about CVS is I LOVE IT!!!! It has been wonderful to be able to stockpile without using up all my grocery money before getting other necessities. My husband is having as much fun as I am seeing all that I'm getting for so little money. It's nice to be able to share this with my mom too. I'm hoping that I can start to shop with some of my other friends as well. I want to share this with everyone!!! :)

I can't believe it!!!

The weirdest thing just happened here. I had to share!!

THERE ARE SNOW FLAKES FALLING ON THANKSGIVING DAY IN CENTRAL TEXAS!!!!!

Never before have I experienced anything close to a "white Christmas", much less a white Thanksgiving! But there it is, right outside my window--snow flakes falling!

Ryan is beside himself with excitement. Ever since the 5-6 inches of snow we had Easter weekend, he's been aware of the fun that snow brings. He's bundled up and waiting for daddy to take him out. True, there's only flurries right now, but maybe in the morning there will be enough to build a snowman!!

hehe

Happy Thanksgiving all!!!!

The smell of baking turkey is in the air. The counters are lined with fresh-baked pies and dinner rolls. Our small group is settled in around the warm fireplace. How GOOD my GOD is to bless this unworthy soul with so many blessings!

I hope that you all are having a wonderful time with family and friends today, celebrating this day of thanksgiving and praise. May the God of all grace bless each of you with thankful hearts, full tables and homes filled with love and laughter!

Just to let everyone know, we found out that my father-in-law will not be having bypass surgery after all because the blocked artery is too small for surgery. The doctors say that his condition is not life threatening, and with medication and diet, he should be fine. They will be releasing him to go home tomorrow. He can even go back to work Monday! Praise the Lord for answered prayers, and thank you to those of you who have prayed for us today.

Rambling Thots

I'm sitting here nursing my baby. He's been extra fussy this morning for some reason. I try to utilize nursing time to read or work online. So far, it's working well, except for the typing with one hand. That gets a little weird some times. :)

My sister-in-law just called, letting us know that my DH's dad may have bypass surgery within the next couple days. Please pray for him and for the whole family. As many of you know, my mom-in-law hasn't been doing well for a while now. The Lord is greatly testing them! Pray for their strength and peace.

Yesterday was CVS shoping day! It was my first successful trip on my own. hehe I'm loving this! One of the best parts though is that my husband is as awed by the savings as I am. It's great to know that my simple efforts are such a help to him and to our family. I'll post pictures and details later. Stay tuned!

We are still in limbo around here. Because of our two trips to San Antonio the last two weekends, we haven't been able to finish moving into our new house. I'm beginning to think that we just aren't going to get over there until after Thanksgiving, especially if we have to be gone again for my father-in-law's surgery. We'll see.

I'm SERIOUSLY missing my home church!!!! It's been three Wednesdays and two Sundays since I've been able to meet with them. Times like these remind me that we truly are a body, a family--and I miss them greatly! Lord willing, I'll still be able to be back with them in a few days.

Well, my Brandon has fallen to sleep (finally!!), so I'm going to go put him down and get to laundry. If we do leave for SA tonight, we'll need clean clothing! Signing off for now....

A day in the life of

my little brother. He is Navy and proud of it! He's currently serving overseas.

http://www.banditobrothers.com/

Follow this link to "Portfolio", click on "Commercials", and watch the first two commercials to see what he does every day for a living. It's neat!

During the course of my blogging this morning, I came across Moms for Modesty. Evidently, they have recently moved their site and are requesting that anyone who believes that little girls should be able to be little girls in the way that they dress come by their site to sign their petition. This is based on the truth that companies are beginning to look to "mom" blogs to see what they should market. So, whether you have a daughter or not, go by and sign the petition and spread the word!!! Let our little girls be sweet and innocent as long as possible!

Super Savings Saturday

I made somewhere around $130 today. Doin' what you ask? SHOPPING!!! Yes, you read it right! SHOPPING!

I excelled at my second attempt at CVS shopping. :)
Nichole went along with me and helped me out. (Thanks, girl!!!)

Let me see if I can put it all down here for you to look over. :)

I did four separate transactions.



The first--

1 Blood Glucose Monitor $30.00
1 Ameal Blood Pressure Med =$29.99
= $59.99

Used 1 CVS Coupon $2.00 and
1 Manif. Coupon $50.00

Paid =$7.99

Got back $29.99 ECB

Second --

1 Blood Glucose Monitor $30.00
1 Ameal Blood Pressure Med =$29.99
2 Vitamins BOGOF = $14.99
4 Covergirl BOGO1/2OFF =$14.61
3 CVS Cotton Swabs =$9.57
=$99.16

Used 1 CVS Coupons $2.00
Used $53.00 in Manif. Coupons
Used $29.99 ECB from First transaction

Paid $14.17

Got Back $35.99 in ECB

Third--

Returned Covergirl from Second Transaction because they were the wrong items.
Got back $15.77

Fourth--

1 Blood Glucose Monitor $9.99
1 Ameal Blood Pressure Med =$29.99
2 Covergirl BOGO1/2OFF =$12.98
2 Cvs Cotton Swabs = $6.38
=$59.34

Used Manif. Coupons =57.99

Paid 1.35

Got back $33.99 ECB

I still have a total of $69.98 in ECB to use in the coming weeks!

And I spent a total between all four transactions (including the return) $7.74

PLUS, all the of the Glucose Monitors I bought for FREE have a rebate so I will be
getting $70.00 back from those!

So for a total of $7.74 I ended up making $132.24!!!
And I have all the items above!

Now, since I personally don't have diabetes and have no need for the glucose monitors, I took the opportunity to give all three to my sister-in-law who is a dialysis nurse. She will take them to her clinic to give to some needy patients. I think this is an awesome way to save money and bless someone else in the process!!!

I don't know if I'll ever have such good success at CVS shopping again, but as I had been getting pretty discouraged at all this shopping to save, today was just what I needed to get motivated once more to keep trying. Of course, I plan to utilize Nichole's help as much as possible until I can get the hang of doing it on my own and really searching out the good deals. Hope you're prepared! hehe

Calling all Coffee Lovers!!!

Or anyone who likes FREEBIES!!!

Check this out! AWESOME! I can't wait to sign up for all these free samples! hehe

Thursday Tips

If you head over to Money Making Mom(see sidebar), Crystal had been doing a series on making money through blogging. It's a simple way for stay-at-home wives and mothers to make some little extra on the side. I've only just now started on the endeavor, so it's been super helpful for me to read what an experienced mom has done and been successful doing.

Also, I know you all can see the ads I have posted on my blog. This is a fairly simple way to get started bringing in some money. I like the site http://www.cj.com/ and am set up with them. I haven't started making money yet, but I'm very, very new to this "getting your blog noticed" thing! My friend Nichole turned me on to this company and has already had good success with them. They advertise for big-name companies, so you can be choosy about who and how you advertise to maintain that family-friendly atmosphere we all enjoy on "mom blogs."

Well, my two minutes of computer time for today are finished, and laundry is calling. I'll leave you to check out these few tips and start working them for yourself! Have fun!

A Frugal Christmas

Hello, friends! My friend Nichole is hosting a "frugal Christmas ideas" forum(for lack of a better term at the moment.) Check it out here for more information or to join in the fun of the coming holiday season!

Today's good deal!

Hey all! For today only, GAP is offering free shiping on any orders. They have good deals on baby/children's clothes, and they even have a maternity line!!! Check it out by clicking on the box above!

This and That

I admit that my previous post title was a *bit* dramatic, but all drama aside, I thought it was an important issue to share. Thank you to everyone who commented.

We did get moved out of our storage on time! Thanks to all the GREAT help we had, the guys were finished before noon! Absolutely nothing is out of a box, but the back bedroom is full to the ceiling, waiting patiently for me to tackle it.

I've had several vacuum cleaner issues that are keeping us from being able to set up the house, beginning with our vacuum pulling a disappearing act. Whether it was stolen or misplaced in the great store things here, store things there fiasco, it's just gone! We will still need one at some point--sooner I'm thinking, than later--so I'm in the market for one, preferably a canister. Any of you ladies have suggestions about a good brand/inexpensive price that will work well?

Well, that will have to be it for now. Brandon has nursed himself to sleep, and I need to lay him down and take advantage of the quiet. I have lots to do today, but I've gotten a slow start.

Until later....

Soy--Miracle food or Death in Disguise?

I just finished reading one of these articles and STRONGLY suggest you all do the same! They address the issue of the dangers of soy in our diet. What has been hailed as "healthy" may actually be seriously harming us, especially our infants and children.


Here's an excerpt from the article written for No Geater Joy by Debi Pearl in 2001.


Soybeans! Healthy, right? Full of vitamins? Full of protein? Yes, everyone knows that. Not according to new research. It is common knowledge that soybeans are loaded with plant compounds that mimic estrogen, a female hormone. Many post menopausal women use soy products to help control hot flashes and other problems caused by hormonal imbalances. And soy is very effective in supplying the hormones needed! Think about it. If soy products supply sufficient hormones to balance out older women, what are they doing to newborn babies fed soy formula? What is this female hormone doing to men who have a constant diet of tofu and soy milk? What about younger women who already have a full supply of estrogen; how does a diet of estrogen rich soy affect them? Research is now strongly pointing to some very disturbing facts....read more.

(For some reason, my link is not working. Try to click on or copy/paste-- http://www.nogreate rjoy.org/ topics/general- view/archive/ 2001/october/ 10/soy-alert/ )


Pearl provides several links for beginning your own research into this issue. I believe we, as wives, mothers, daughters and friends, need to be informed and take steps to protect our families!

This is another site to study for more information

http://www.soyonlineservice.co.nz/

Please share this information with others. You may link back here if you'd like.

Interesting use for a common item

A friend sent me an email about Vick's Vapor Rub(sp?).

Some scientists in Canada have "discovered" that if you put the rub on the soles of your feet (yes, that is what I said, the SOLES of your feet!) you will experience relief from even the severest night-time coughing!!! How awesome is that!!!??? They determined that it was even more effective, especially in children, than powerful prescription drugs. You simply put a good layer of the product on the bottom of your feet, cover with socks and get into bed. It's supposed to give long-lasting relief.

Now, I haven't tested this out myself yet, but I plan to!!! The next time one of my boys or my husband gets that annoying, sleep-depriving, wracking cough, I'm going to slather it on and see what happens.

Has anyone ever tried this? Or if you try it, leave a comment and let us know how it works for you.

Yummy Fall Recipe

This is a yummy, hearty soup that will feed a family! It can also be frozen in small portions for easy-to-fix dinners later!

Santa Fe Soup
(Thanks, Viv!)

2lbs. hamburger, browned and drained
2 pkgs. ranch dressing mix
2 pkgs. taco seasoning
2 cans of corn
1 can of chicken broth*
1 can kidney beans
1 can pinto beans**
1 can black beans
Sour cream
Cheese
Corn chips

Mix all ingredients in large pot and heat through. You can also put this into a crock pot on low for several hours.

Serve topped with cheese, sour cream and corn chips.


*If you don't have canned chicken broth on hand, you can substitute 2 tsp. of chicken bouillon(2 sm. cubes) and 3 cps. water.
**I didn't have pinto beans on hand, so I used a can of Ranch Style beans. It worked fine!!

On sale!!

Once again, Crystal Paine is offering her Supermarket Savings course for marked down!!! It's half price for a short time!!! Take advantage, ladies! Click here!

Biblical Womanhood

I know I've written about this before, but I thought it might be a good time for a reminder!!!

Biblical Womanhood is an excellent site for ladies of all ages and positions. Crystal Paine offers an array of Godly resources for the family. Books for single young women, for married women, for mothers and children. She also has a regularly updated blog with lots of good ideas and advice. I've added a link to the Biblical Womanhood store on my sidebar. Go browse around when you have the chance!

Carolyn Mahaney Collection of messages--FREE DOWNLOADS!!!

A friend pointed these out to me. I have since downloaded all the free MP3 messages and can't wait to listen to them all.

Click here for Christ-centered messages for ladies given by Carolyn Mahaney!

Suggestions??(Extended)

I need some small house-little closets-even smaller kitchen-storage ideas. Input requested and appreciated!!!

Well, I'm going from a small house with two large closets and an attic that I could use to store boxes (Rubbermaid tubs.) I also had a fairly large kitchen with a lot of counter space and cabinets. The house we will be moving to has only small closets and the kitchen has only one wall of counter space, with few cabinets.

I will need a place to store canned/boxed/dry food, as well as my boxes of extra clothing (i.e. maternity, post-maternity, baby clothes, seasonal clothing). I'm beginning to stock up on household items, so I need ideas on storing that as well.

moving update

Yes, we're still planning to move, but we have SOOO much to get done!!
We're painting the inside of the house and planning to get some of the flooring replaced as well. The whole painting process has not been without its complications, but so far so good. The major part is done, leaving only the tedious, detailed work--cabinets, trim, insides of closets, bathrooms.
I was hoping to be able to jump right in and work along side my hubby, but for some reason my almost-six-month-old won't stay happy long enough for me to paint anything to completion. Of course, there's also Ryan who wants to "paint" too. Can you imagine the condition of things if he were to get hold of a paint brush. I shudder to think of it!!!
We have to have everything moved out of our storage by the 31st, or we have to pay for another month's rent. If you were watching us from afar, I fear we would look like crazed people right now, flying around trying futilely to accomplish everything!! :)
Just to show you how not on top of things I am, I haven't even started to consider going through things and packing things here at the house. Obviously, since we've been staying in my parent's house for the last year, we don't' have that much here to pack, but it is amazing to me how much stuff accumulates in a relatively short amount of time. Ryan's toy collection, for example, has grown exponentially since last June. I plan to go through them and donate them to a good cause (i.e. the trash or a garage sale) but you can only imagine the uproar that is causing. The thought that Mommy would give away my toys, even though I haven't played with half of them in who know how long!!!! Any suggestions here, people??? How do you separate a three-year old from his beloved collection without triggering a melt-down????
OK, I'm now being LOUDLY paged by Brandon. He's in dire need from the sound of his calling! Gotta run....more to come later, I hope.