Wishing You a very Merry Christmas!

May your Christmas be filled with love, laughter, family, and friends!
We wish you the greatest of memories this holiday and pray that you
take a moment to remember the Reason for the Season!

Have a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!

Little Miss & Little Man
(and Mother and Father, too!)

Memoirs of a Geisha: A Book Review

Well, this may be a less-than-dramatic way to break my 2-week silence (AGAIN!) especially so close to Christmas, but I actually read this book about a month ago and thought I should get around to reviewing it. It was originally on my Fall Into Reading 2008 list, but I didn't get the book review posted in time for it to officially count. (However, it DOES count in my book because I DID read it!) Now, on to the review...

I had heard so much about this book, that I was really looking forward to it. I must admit it was difficult to get into the story because the content itself is so discouraging and heartbreaking. The life of a geisha (as depicted in this book) is anything but glamorous! On the flip side, however, the imagery and writing were magnificent! I could absolutely picture the gorgeous, flowing kimono and the beautiful surrounding scenery. Overall, it was a sad, sad story that was beautifully told. If you're looking for a beautifully written story full of vivid imagery, this is the book for you. If you're looking for a story to make you feel good about life and the human condition...you might want to shelve this one for now.

I have yet to see the movie, but hope to soon (maybe once I've exhausted my extensive holiday movie collection!). If the book is so beautifully written, I can't wait to see what they do with it on the big screen!

As a side note: I'm hoping to post another book review (from my original list), and send my holiday greetings before we leave on Wed!

I-Pod Giveaway!

Wouldn't an I-Pod make a great Christmas gift...for yourself or a loved one? Focus on the Family is giving away three I-Pods every day from now until Dec. 13. Each I-Pod is pre-loaded with all 16 CD sets from the Adventures in Odyssey® Gold Audio Series, including Volumes 1-15 and The Lost Episodes. For more information, or to enter the contest, click here.

Happy Birthday Sis!

Today is my younger sister's birthday. She is known by many names....Melissa, Mel, Sissy, and now Aunt Mimi. She is the smart and frugal one; and therefore the one with the really good job, the new house, and all the money! ;)

Mel through the years...

Happy Birthday, Sis! I'm so proud of you!

Love, Nanc

The Firstborn Advantage: A Book Review

This is yet another book that was NOT on my Fall Into Reading 2008 book list. However, when I saw it in the book store, I knew I had to read it. I have not read Dr. Leman's other books on birth order (including The Birth Order book), but I remember my parents reading it when we were young and hearing all about it. As a firstborn, I was so excited to learn that Dr. Leman had now written a book, specifically for me. Here is an excerpt from the cover:

"You're driven. You have big plans and dreams. You demand a lot out of
yourself, and it pays off. As a natural mover and shaker of the world, you were
at the top of your class. You're the benchmark setter and the award winner,
you've always done what's expected of you--and yes, you're the one who got in
trouble for what your younger sibling did. Being firstborn comes with a high
price sometimes, and no one is harder on you than you. But it doesn't have to be
that way. You can learn to use your firstborn skills to your best advantage in
every area of life. And you'll still end up as the high achiever you were born
to be."

Like I said...it was written just for me. How refreshing it was to discover that my need to have things done "my way" is not some maladjusted illness or a reason to submit to therapy, but simply a result of my birth order. Whew! Dr. Leman gives great insight into the role of a firstborn--chronological or functional (which he explains in the book)--and how that impacts her view of herself, relationship with others, and need to accomplish things (and do them perfectly!). Dr. Leman gives firstborns tips for using their natural-born leadership tendencies to its greatest advantage in relationships, at home, at school, and at work.

If you are a firstborn, are married to a firstborn, have a firstborn sibling, or simply know a firstborn, this book is a must-read. You will gain a wealth of wisdom and insight. And if you ARE a firstborn, you definitely must read this...if for no other reason, to learn to cut yourself some slack!

Win a $500 Wal-Mart Gift Card!

Arianne at To Think Is To Create is giving away a $500 Wal-Mart Gift Card. Click here for more details, and to get some great cost-saving ideas for the holidays!

Belated Thanksgiving Wishes

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. We had a wonderful time at Grandma & Grandpa's. The highlight was a hayride with the cousins through the woods. My very talented bro-in-law captured some amazing photos. Here are a few of my faves...to see them all, check out his Flickr page.

The hayride...that's Hubby driving the tractor.

Little Man playing on Grandma's porch.

Little Miss...all bundled up

Now, let the Christmas festivities officially begin!

The Silence Is Finally Broken

Yes, it has been almost 2 weeks since my last post. I am ashamed to admit it. There's not one, but many reasons for my silence:

• Preparing to go out of town
• Going out of town for a quick weekend trip...last weekend
• Recovering from the trip
• Jumping right in to responsibilities and commitments upon our return
• Chasing a 15-month-old who has discovered there are stairs and furniture to climb, buttons to push, and cabinets and drawers to investigate
• Attempting to convince the same 15-month-old that naps are still a good idea!

The list could go on and on, but probably the biggest contributor to my absence is my recent striving to be more disciplined. Several months back I had a spiritual crisis of sort. Let me assure you, before you call the prayer chain, that my eternal soul was not hanging in the balance or anything of the sort. However, the simple challenge of my faith was enough to make me realize that my daily spiritual disciplines--prayer, Bible study, daily connection with God, etc.--had taken a back seat to the "more demanding" tasks of managing my home and nurturing my family. After a couple of spiritually-difficult and emotionally-draining days, I made a renewed commitment to make time for spiritual disciplines.

This return to spiritual discipline began to show me my lack of discipline in other areas. So, my next area of focus was our budget. Since we are hoping to purchase a new house next year, this area of our lives really needs to be scrutinized! So I set out planning meals, shopping for sales and discounts, and keeping closer tabs on our day-to-day spending. While there is still room for improvement, I'm happy to say there's been significant improvement in the last couple of months. (Huh..who would have thought a little disciplined action could make a difference!)

My latest area of focus is health and fitness. I've never been the poster child for athleticism, but now that I've had two children and that great big 4-0 is getting closer by the day (although still a few years away!), I'm beginning to see the need for giving more attention to my health and fitness. It's true I'd like to see those last 15 pounds of "baby weight" finally come off, but my initial goals are to be healthy, to increase my energy and feel good, and to set a positive example for my kids. So, we dusted off the treadmill and I dug my running shoes out of the closet...who knows maybe you'll see me in a marathon one day (although I wouldn't hold my breath if I were you!).

You're probably wondering, So, what does any of this have to do with anything? Why in the world did you feel the need to take up an entire post on this? And why have I read the entire thing?!

I have to idea why you've read this far, but if you have...thank you for sticking with me. I'm sharing this for a couple of reasons. All of these things--as any area of discipline--require two things...time and commitment. Commitment is one thing I've never had trouble giving. Time, on the other hand, is a rare commodity these days...more now than ever. That means in order for me to truly remain disciplined in these areas, something else will have to give. Right now that something else is my computer time....thus the main reason for my recent silence. (I finally pulled it all together...aren't you glad you stuck with me?) I'm not saying I'm retiring my blog, or throwing out my laptop...never! I'm simply saying that, for awhile at least, you may see fewer posts from me. Don't worry...I'm still around, and I'll still be popping on as often as I can.

The other reason I'm posting this, is that I believe discipline is something we all struggle with. It's easy to make the time and spend the energy to do something in the beginning...it's new, it's exciting. But after we've done it for awhile, other things start to look new and interesting. If we're not careful, we can replace the old with the new. We'd rather spend time online than spend time with God. We'd rather sleep in...just this once, than get up to work out. We'd rather just relax and watch a movie than plan meals and make a shopping list. (Or am I the only one who does that?) We...I...need to remember it's when we stick with it that we ultimately see the best results.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a
harvest if we do not give up." --Galatians 6:9

What do you do to "keep going when the going gets tough"?

Back to the Basics

Photo by Omerad

From my devotional today...

I am not saved by believing; I realize I am saved by believing. It is not
repentance that saves me, repentance is the sign that I realize what God has
done in Christ Jesus. The danger is to put the emphasis on the effect instead
of on the cause It is my obedience that puts me right with God, my consecration.
Never! I am put right with God because prior to all, Christ died. When I turn to
God and by belief accept what God reveals I can accept, instantly the stupendous
Atonement of Jesus Christ rushes me into a right relationship with God; and
by the supernatural miracle of God's grace I stand justified, not because I am
sorry for my sin, not because I have repented, but because of what Jesus has
done. The Spirit of God brings it with a breaking, all-over light, and I know,
though I do not know how, that I am saved.

--Oswald Chambers

It's not an extraordinarily new concept, nothing revolutionary or earth-shattering...just a simple reminder of God's amazing grace. But I've found that sometimes it's the simplest things that make the greatest impact on me. And this did.

Baby Zoe doing well!

I talked to my sister yesterday and they were on their way back to Savannah for another checkup for Zoe. She said he now weight 7 lbs, 5 oz!! He is doing very well. They removed his feeding tube, and the only thing they are now watching is his liver. It is still slightly enlarged, but they are pleased with the rate at which it is reducing. It's likely we'll get to see him at Christmas, so I'll keep you posted. For now there are new pics of the "miracle baby" on Zoe's web site.

Hail to the Chief

(Two political posts in one week...don't get used to it!)

Anyone who knows me well--for that matter anyone who read yesterday's post--knows that I hold some fairly conservative and traditional views. While last night's election didn't turn out the way I had initially hoped for, there are so many things I am thankful for:

• I am thankful to live in a nation where we, the people, are allowed to have a voice in choosing our leadership.
• I am thankful that I am allowed to speak my mind to openly, and respectfully, disagree with political leaders and legislation.
• I am thankful that I was able to witness history in the making as the first African-American candidate was elected president.
• I am proud to be part of a country who has survived the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement, and came through it all stronger....strong enough to elect an African-American president less than 150 years after ending the Civil War.
• I am thankful that I serve One who is in control of history andthe future--who "holds the heart of the [president] in his hand; He directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases" (Proverbs 21:1).

The American people have spoken and elected Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States of America. He will be the leader of our nation. What does that mean for me as a conservative Christian?

It means that I will respect him. It means that I will show him honor. It means that I will pray for him and support him. Do I agree with everything he stands for? No. Will I like everything he does? Probably not. Will he bring good or harm to our country? Only time will tell. But none of that should be my concern.

My concern should be to live according to God's standard for my life, and according to Romans 13, God commands me to, "submit [myself] to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established."

We may not agree politically, but president-elect Obama has been placed in this position by God Almighty. It is not my job to criticize or malign him (or his followers). It is my responsibility to "give everyone what [I] owe him...if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor."

As president of the United States, I owe him my respect and my honor.

You Won't Hear Much from Me about Politics...

However, since the future of our nation lies in the balance today, I figured it is appropriate to share some thoughts. First, let me say I'm not one to jump in to a political discussion or debate. I typically try to avoid them, and if for some reason I can't, I'm usually the first to grow tired of it and leave the conversation.

It's not that I don't think we should be informed or aware. I absolutely believe that as an American and a Christian, it's one's obligation to be informed of the issues and take action in an appropriate manner. But I also grow weary of all the campaign ads, political debate, and speculation and conjecture from the "talking heads." But in this election, both sides seem to agree on one thing--there is so much at stake.

As a Christian, I am saddened, and often annoyed, by the way some "believers" approach political issues and elections. I believe there is NEVER an excuse for a Christian to be defamatory or malicious toward another person, no matter what their beliefs. That's why I was so proud when two friends each posted thoughtful and well-spoken insights on today's campaign. Each demonstrated intelligent arguments presented in a respectful and, I believe, Christlike attitude. You can read them here and here. Thank you Vince and John Jay!

First let me say that I have great respect and admiration for both candidates. I commend Barack Obama for overcoming great obstacles in his life to make a greater life for himself and his family...to essentially realize the American dream. And no one can dispute John McCain's service to his country, both in the military and as a prisoner of war. If, for no other reason, he deserves our utmost appreciation and respect.

As for the VP candidates, my heart goes out to Joe Biden for the personal tragedy he endured early in his career. I cannot imagine losing a spouse, let alone a child at the same time. As for Sarah Palin, I think her record and her reputation speak for themselves. In my opinion she has been treated unfairly by the mainstream media who seem to have a double standard when it comes to liberal vs. conservative women in politics. But Sarah Palin has risen above it and handled it with grace and dignity.

No one should vote for a candidate because of sympathetic circumstances or a charismatic personality. It is every American's duty--and more so every Christian's duty--to vote on the issues. I believe life begins at conception and we should do everything in our power to protect the unborn. I believe marriage should be between one man and one woman, and I believe in the traditional family unit. I believe the role of a Supreme Court justice is to interpret the law and Constitution, not rewrite it. I believe our country was founded by great men who had great faith in a supreme and all-knowing God, and it would serve our country well to remember that.

Whatever your opinions are on economic, military, or other political issues, if you are a follower of Christ, your sole concern should be the issues of morality. Our pastor said it so eloquently last Sunday, "We should be concerned with economic and political issues, but as Christians, moral issues trump every other political issue" (my paraphrase).

If you remain undecided, I urge you to seriously consider the issues--particularly moral ones--and pray fervently for direction. Ask yourself, what's really at stake in this election? It's more than just economics and health care...it's the moral fiber of our nation. Then, go vote! It's Election Day...get out there and vote your conscience!

A Wedding in December: A Book Review

A Wedding in December by Anita Shreve was not on my Fall Into Reading 2008 list, but the cover caught my eye at a bookstore, so I had to see what it was about. (Yes, I am one who judges books by their covers.)

Seven high school friends, now in their mid-40s, gather at an inn belonging to one of them for a winter wedding. The happy couple are two of their own who went their separate ways and have now reunited 25 years later. The group has not spoken to one another since graduation night when a terrible tragedy occurred. Now, at the inn, they must all faced what happened so many years ago, along with the demons and baggage they've collected along the years.

I don't typically read fiction, and now I remember why. I am always left saying, "Really...that was it?" Perhaps I build it up too much in my mind; perhaps my expectations are too lofty, but I often feel disappointed at the end. I get drawn in by the plot and the potential of the characters, as I was with Shreve's most recent book, but then I'm discouraged by the outcome. I LOVE great works of fiction, but find most fiction consumes too much of my time for too little payback. (Apparently, I'm just not reading the right fiction.)

While the plot was intriguing, and the writing was adequate, I felt that Shreve's characters left much to be desired. It seemed to me they were all a bit on the depressing side...always selling themselves short and longing for what they could not have. Now, don't get me wrong, I understand the "draw of the forbidden" and it's potential to inject suspense into a story. But it just seemed that ALL of the characters in this particular story were....well, sad--stuck in loveless marriages, facing life-threatening medical issues, or simply unhappy with their lives.

I've read mixed reviews of this book online (I was curious to see if I was the only one who felt this way). So if you're really into fiction, and this story sounds interesting to you, check it out. Judge for yourself if it's a great piece of fiction, or as one online reviewer put it, "a ho-hum read filled with tired metaphors."

6 years of wedded bliss!

Six years ago this week, I married the love of my life. We chose the last week of October because of the beautiful scenery here in the Ozarks. We were once again able to enjoy God's amazing creativity displayed in a Missouri autumn as we enjoyed a fabulous weekend getaway here.

Last summer, Hubby was awarded this getaway package from his employer for displaying excellence in the workplace. Thanks to his hard work throughout the year, and the gracious offer of my in-laws to watch our kids, we were able to enjoy two, kid-free days of amazing food, luxurious accommodations, and inspiring scenery. We indulged in a relaxing pace and were able to truly relish each other's company without the interruption of little ones. It was the best anniversary gift ever!

Thank you, Babe, for all you do for us. I love you!

100th Post!

And here it is...100 things you always wished you knew about me:

1. I was born in Kansas.
2. I have only lived in 2 states: Kansas and Missouri.
3. I lived exactly the first half of my life in Kansas, and now exactly the second half of my life in Missouri.
4. I have visited 31 of the continental United States and Alaska.
5. I have been to 4 other countries (Mexico, Canada, Jamaica, and France...and England if you count landing at the airport for a layover.)
6. I am the oldest of 3 girls.
7. I am a PK (preacher's kid).
8. I HATED being a PK when I was younger.
9. I have come to appreciate being a PK as I've grown older.
10. I have worked in almost every capacity in the local church (part of being a PK).
11. I was in a "beauty and talent pageant" in grade school.
12. I did not place in the top 3.
13. But I did learn a really cool "dance" routine to On Top of the World by The Carpenters.
14. I remember most of the actions to this day.
15. I had a "Dukes of Hazzard" lunchbox in grade school.
16. My most cherished toy as a child was my Mrs. Beasley doll.
17. My mom threw it away when we moved and told me it got lost. (I was in 1st grade.)
18. She bought me a replacement for my 30th birthday.
19. I played volleyball and basketball in high school, although I wasn't any good at either.
20. I took piano lessons from 2nd grade through college.
21. I played the trumpet in jr. high and high school.
22. I own a guitar, but don't play.
23. I would love to learn to play the guitar.
24. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Music.
25. I have done NOTHING related to that degree since I graduated college.
26. I went to Bible college, so I also have a B.A. in Bible.
27. I have used that one since graduating.
28. I am a Type A person and a perfectionist (typical firstborn).
29. I have always been a perfectionist...not sure when the Type A thing evolved. I definitely wasn't that way in college!
30. I appreciate clever wit.
31. I tend to be a bit sarcastic.
32. That's not always a good thing.
33. I have dark brown (naturally), thick, curly hair.



(Kayren, this is for you!)


34. I have brown eyes.
35. I'm not telling you how much I weigh.
36. I've always been a bit prone to tripping over "nothing".
37. I hate mornings...with everything in me.
38. Autumn is my favorite season.
39. I like winter...until Jan. 2, then I'm done with it.
40. Christmas is my favorite holiday...followed by Thanksgiving and Halloween at a close second (even though having Halloween as a favorite holiday may be considered taboo).
41. I love candy corn, but only the week before Halloween. I don't care for it any other time of the year.
42. My favorite candy is dark chocolate peanut M&Ms.
43. My favorite dessert is pretty much anything chocolate.
44. I eat something chocolate almost every day (even if it's a few chocolate chips out of the freezer).
45. I inherited my chocolate-codependency from my mother and her mother.
46. I don't understand the point of desserts that aren't chocolate...unless it's pumpkin.
47. I would rate pumpkin (pumpkin pie and other desserts) as "almost chocolate" in my book.
48. I like to cook, but I LOVE to bake. (And I HATE to cleanup--whether it's cooking or baking!)
49. I love Mexican food.
50. I must have the dishes done and the kitchen cleaned up before I can relax for the evening.
51. I don't really feel that I can start my day unless the beds are made.
52. I used to work out regularly, but it's been pretty sporadic since the kids were born.
53. We own a treadmill, but it's not currently usable.
54. I would love to start running again regularly...I'll get on that some day!
55. I like all types of music, but my favorite style is probably big band/swing.
56. My favorite TV shows currently are The Office and Chuck.
57. I don't really have a favorite movie...I have several, depending on the genre.
58. I traveled with a ministry team the summer after college.
59. I taught drama ministry at my church for 7 years.
60. I've taught workshops on drama ministry and leadership.
61. I wrote a book on drama ministry with two of my closest friends.
62. I still talk to my two best friends from college almost every day.
63. One lives within 5 miles of me.
64. The other lives within 15 miles of me.
65. We were all addicted to Beverly Hills 90210 in college.
66. I haven't seen the new one, but I'm pretty sure I wouldn't like it.
67. My "longest-time" friend is Lora at My Blessed Life.
68. We've literally known each other since we were a few months old.
69. She's the one who convinced me to start blogging.
70. I love to read.
71. I keep books and magazines stashed throughout the house (and in our vehicles) in case I can catch a few minutes to read.
72. I could get lost for hours in a bookstore...new or used.
73. I'm a bit compulsive when it comes to reading...I MUST reading everything from beginning to end.
74. I will finish a book, even if I don't like it.
75. I read magazines cover-to-cover, like a book.
76. I have a theory that if someone took the time to write, edit, and publish it, it surely must be worth reading (that is obviously not always the case!)
77. I love to write...mostly musings on my own life (as evidenced here on my blog).
78. I worked for a Christian publisher for 10 years.
79. During that time I worked on magazines, devotionals, Sunday School curriculum, web content development, youth ministry materieals, marketing pieces, Bible study materials, and more.
80. While working on a teen magazine, I had the opportunity to interview artists like Newsboys, Audio Adrenaline, Jennifer Knapp, Third Day, and The Katinas.
81. I once had dinner with Jennifer Knapp at Zios.
82. I tripped and fell right into a puddle while walking with Audio Adrenaline (remember the whole "klutz" thing?)
83. When I got back to the office and told my friend, she told me I had something stuck in my teeth (which would have been there since lunch, and therefore throughout the ENTIRE interview with Audio A).
84. I am currently working on a series of children's books.
85. I hope to send them to a publisher next year.
86. I didn't get married until I was 30.
87. I knew my husband for 8 years when we married.
88. We met through friends in college.
89. Our friends set him up with my roomate.
90. They only went on one date.
91. We became friends years later through a weekly Bible study.
92. Six years later he asked me out.
93. Two years after that we were engaged.
94. Our anniversary is this Sunday.
95. We are going away for 2 nights.
96. The in-laws are coming to stay with the kids....woo-hoo!
97. We have two amazing children...Little Miss and Little Man.
98. We have a dog.
99. Hubby got him for me when we were dating.
100. It's really hard to think of 100 things about myself!
     

Designed for Life 2008 Women's Conference

"Life is full of surprises." That sounds so cliche...until you encounter one of those surprises.

Last week I attended our church's annual women's conference. (Thus the reason for my absence here.) Now, I'm not typically one for church women's gatherings. As a not-so-frilly-girl, I've come away from more than my share of women's gatherings feeling like it just "wasn't for me." But for some reason, I felt like I needed to go this year...and surprise! I'm really glad I did.

The speakers were phenominal. Vera Kasevich of Hillsong Church in Kiev, Ukrane, has an amazing testimony and passion for empowering women. She and her husband pastor in Kiev as well as in Moscow, Russia. We also heard from my friend Casey Gibbons, the wife of our youth pastor, Scotty Gibbons. Casey also has a tremendous story of God's faithfulness in her life and an amazing heart for girls and children.

For me, the highlight of the conference was being challenged (and I do not use that word lightly) by Christine Caine of Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia. Put simply, Christine is a combination of passion, humor, and the power of the Word of God all rolled into a small Greek-Australian woman. She is an tremendous speaker and an amazing woman.

In addition to the powerful speakers, the conference held The World's Largest Baby Shower where nine new and expectant mothers from the local pregnancy care center were showered with gifts of strollers, rocking chairs, bedding and nursery decor, baby clothes, and baby supplies.

Two women were honored through the "Be a Gift" Foundation for their faith and courage in the midst of adversity. They were given makeovers and a shopping spree. One family was given a kitchen makeover (complete with new dishes and a fully-stocked pantry), while the other family received a 5-day getaway and a check to cover expenses for their son's medical treatments.

The conference participants also agreed to sponsor 500 Haitian children through Mission of Mercy to launch their ministry in the country of Haiti!

This was not your mother's women's conference! Gone are the days of blue-haired ladies sitting around knitting and sipping tea. Apparently, the new face of women's ministry is all about empowering women to live up to who God has created us to be. Now that I can get into! (The chocolates and chair massages are nice, too!)

I am definitely looking forward to next year's conference. If you're looking for a reason to visit the Ozarks next fall, this is a great reason to come. I can give you great tips on things to do in the area!

What's been your biggest surprise in recent days?

The Ministry of Motherhood: A Book Review

I recently finished the first book on my Fall Into Reading 2008 list. I had read The Mission of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson and was anxious to read this "follow-up" book of hers as well. As always, Sally's message both encouraged and challenged me in my role as "mom." I knew I would like this book as I always love reading her blog, I Take Joy.

This particular book, however, seemed to really "hit me where I am." I could especially relate to one paragraph in the introduction:

"I realized with the passing of each day that spiritual and emotional
maturity in the lives of my children would not just happen because I wished it
so. It would not just happen as a result of the passive example of my being
good. Effective emotional, spiritual, and social training in the lives of my
children would have to be both intentional and planned."

With a preschooler and now a toddler, my days are increasingly busy. Most of the time I feel as if I'm barely keeping up, and often I'm just falling behind. At the same time, I realize how fleeting the time with my children is and I want to do all I can to pour into them. I want to give them so much more than just knowledge. I want to give them the foundation they need to realize and experience their own faith in Christ, to meet the world with the truths of God's Word, and to develop social skills to help them feel comfortable with themselves and confident with others.

Sally does an amazing job of outlining the truths that she and her husband strove to impart to their children. She doesn't do it with a "you-have-to-do-it-this-way" attitude. But she does give you the tools to recognize what values are truly important and how to effectively communicate them in your family. Even if your children are older, Sally's book is a treasure of information. Many of the ideas and suggested activities that she lists are for older, elementary- and middle-school aged kids.

This book will not be for everyone. It's not an "easy-road-to-parenting" type resource. Not everyone will agree with her approach, and I realize her ideas won't work for every family. But I think it will challenge anyone who reads it to stop and consider the level of intention that goes into their everyday parenting. I know it's definitely done that for me.

Awards and Link Love

A couple of weekends ago, I was honored with two, yes TWO blog awards! I'm FINALLY getting around to posting about them and passing along the honors:

Lora at My Blessed Life gave me this:

Here are the rules:
(1) The winner can put the logo on their blog.
(2) Link the person you received your award from.
(3) Nominate 7 other blogs.
(4) Put links of those on yours.
(5) Leave a message on the blogs you’ve nominated.

And Kayren at Everything's Coming Up Daisies passed this along to me:

Rules:

1. Mention the blog that gave it to you.

2. Comment on their blog to let them know you've posted your award.
3. Publish these rules.
4. Share 6 values that are important to you
5. Share 6 things you do not support.
6. Grant the prize to 6 people.

Here are 6 values that are important to me:

1. Honesty

2. Faithfulness/Commitment

3. Integrity

4. Strength of Character

5. Sense of humor

6. Patience

And 6 things I do not support:

1. Obama

2. Abortion

3. The liberal agenda

4. Stupidity

5. Cruelty (in word or action)

6. Arrogance

Since Lora and Kayren both awarded the same blogs I would have, I wasn't sure how to pass them along. That's why it's taken me so long to post this. I've been RACKING MY BRAIN trying to figure out what to do! (My blogging circles are fairly small...but I'm working on it.) So, instead I will simply give you a few blogs that I enjoy visiting (on that rare occasion that I have the luxury to just surf the internet and read!). I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

I Take Joy

Under the Bell Tower

The Menu Mom

Simple Mom

Your Homebased Mom

And FYI...I am nearing my 100th post and working on my list!

Yummy Microwave Meatloaf

Several years ago, when I first moved into my own house, one of my best friends gave me a cook book of her favorite recipes. I use many of them, but one in particular has become a family favorite....Microwave Meatloaf. We LOVE meatloaf, but when I was working I rarely thought to make it in enough time to bake for 45 min to an hour! So, imagine my thrill when I discovered that I could make our fave dish in under 30 minutes! And on top of all that, it's really YUMMY, too! So I thought I'd share it with you all...

Microwave Meatloaf

Ingredients:

1.5 lb ground beef
1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs
1 egg, beaten
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped onion
1.5 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce or ketchup


Combine first seven ingredients and mix well. Pack mixture
into a 2-quart microwavable dish. Microwave on high for
5 minutes then cover with BBQ sauce or ketchup. Cover and
cook another 15 minutes
or until done. Enjoy!

I know it's Tuesday, but just to prove that I really DID do a menu this week (and so Hubby knows what to expect this week), here's our menu for the upcoming week:

Monday--Microwave Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans
Tuesday--Some sort of takeout since we are having our furnace replaced and the water has been off all day!
Wednesday--Sloppy joes, sliced baked potatoes, salad
Thursday--Slow Cooker Turkey, sweet potatoes, rolls
Friday--FAMILY NIGHT OUT!!!
Saturday--Spinach Artichoke Pizza with salad
Sunday--Cook's Day Off


If you would like any of the other recipes, just let me know. I'd be happy to post them!

Zoe is Home!

Zoe with big brother, Isaac, in the hospital

Tonight my sister and her husband will tuck their children into their own beds for the first time in almost 8 weeks! Baby Zoe was released from the hospital today and is enjoying his first evening at home with his family. I spoke with Carmen briefly on the phone today and she sounded so excited and relieved to be taking her little man home.

They have not posted yet about going home as I'm sure they're trying to get settled. I know they will continue to have a long journey ahead of them--adjusting their lives, schedules, and home to care for Zoe until his recovery is complete and his strength is 100%. In the meantime, I know they would appreciate your continued prayers and thoughts of encouragement.

Thank you to all who have diligently checked the web site, fervently prayed for Zoe's healing (and strength for our family), and send thoughts and words of encouragement. I'm sure once they're settled, Jim will continue to post Zoe's progress (complete with many pictures!) on the site, so be sure to check back frequently.

We are grateful to God for His faithfulness and His miraculous hand of healing! And we are so excited to watch our little Baby Zoe grow into a strong, vibrant young man! We love you, Zoe!

Know and Tell Friday

TGIF again!!! And it's time once again for Know and Tell Friday, hosted again this week by Kayren...thanks Kayren for all the GREAT questions!

0. If you want to, leave a comment for Heather to let her know how much you missed her last week and wish her well. Hey Heather! Hope you are hanging in there and doing well...I've been praying for you and your sisters' family.

1. Do you have fake plants in your house? Do you like them? No. I used to have real plants, but I killed them all. Then I had fake plants (3 ficuses....er, ficusi?...3 ficus plants), but I HATED dusting them, so we are currently a plant-free house. I figure I'm doing goo to remember to feed my kids and my dog...I don't need to remember to water (or dust) plants as well! (Did I mention I have a bit of a black thumb?)

2. What is the oldest piece of furniture you have that is not an antique? Describe it. Probably the oldest piece of furniture in our house is an old chair from Hubby's grandparents farmhouse. It is a red upholstered chair with beautiful wood etching on the armrests. It was left in the old farmhouse for decades after everyone moved out (the house was occasionally used for overnight hunting expeditions and shelter for bad-weather camping trips). I first spotted the old chair before Hubby and I were dating when a bunch of us when to his family's land for a camping trip. His family couldn't believe I loved it so much, since it had always been "that old red chair" to them. Hubby knew I had always loved it, so about two months before our wedding, he had it brought down and moved into "our" house (which at the time was my house) while I was out of town on a business trip. I still love it!


3. Do you have any antiques? We don't currently have any antiques, although we did when we first got married. We had a 100-year old piano that Hubby bought me when we were dating (our first Christmas together) and an antique dining room set that we bought when we were first married. But 2 children later (and in the same "quaint" house), we've had to sell those to make room for cribs, toyboxes, toys, balls, etc. I would love to get some more in our "next" (bigger) house.

My piano that is no longer mine...sniff, sniff

4. What type of dishes do you use? China, stoneware, Corelle, Tupperware, paper plates?

We use red Fiestaware dishes for everyday. Well, the kids have plastic Dora, Sesame Street, etc. dishes. I do have a set of China that I absolutely love. We got it for our wedding. I think we've used it once. It's currently packed away waiting for the impending move "some day."

My china that WILL get used some day!

5. What is your favorite thing in your house? Probably our leather couches and chair. It's the first furniture Hubby and I picked out together when we were married. And it's the most "lived in" and therefore the most comfortable furniture we have. I love to cuddle up and watch TV, surf the Internet, or blog from our cozy, comfy couch...although the leather gets cold, so we always have blankets close by!

6. Do you like to use lamps or overhead lighting? I definitely prefer lamps. I like the cozy ambiance they create.

7. Are you a pristine white wall person or do you love color? I like color...but I like muted colors on walls. When I first bought my house (which is now our house), the walls were all a light tan color. It was nice, because it was neutral. However, I did have to paint the kitchen a deep red after a few years, because all the tan finally got to me! It works because we have a brick floor in our kitchen...as a matter of fact, that's what sold me on the house!

Be sure to pop over to Kickin' It In Crazyville to see what Heather & Reese have been up to as well!

Happy Friday to all!

Chuck is Back!!

I was so excited last Fall to find a new show that I absolutely LOVE. That hasn't happened since I stumbled across The Office a few years ago. There are shows that I enjoy from time to time, but no other show had that do-not-miss-under-any-circumstances hold on me...until I met "Chuck."

Maybe it's the refreshingly witty writing, maybe it's the quirky characters or the natural chemistry of the cast, or maybe it's the fact that it's one of the few shows that Hubby and I BOTH thoroughly enjoy. I enjoy it because it's fun, it's quirky, and you can't help but hope that Chuck and Sarah eventually end up together. Hubby loves it because it conjures up a huge helping of nostalgia for him. You see, Hubby is a true-to-life Chuck (minus the whole special agent thing).

Hubby worked at a real-life "Buy More" through college and when I first met him. Most of his longtime friends have worked there, too...the real-life "Nerd Herd." I love to watch Chuck with him because he laughs so hard and makes comments like, "Stuff like that really happens," (e.g., the break-room antics of the Buy More staff) or "I worked with a guy just like him!" (e.g., a Buy More employee you're sure the writers created from the darkest recesses of their imaginations).
I was devastated when I found out last spring that, due to the writer's strike, "Chuck" would not return until the Fall. I have counted the days, weeks, and months, and now it's here. I must admit, thanks to I-tunes I previewed the season premiere and I have to say...it is really a must see!

If you're already a "Chuck" fan...YEA, he's back!! If you're not yet a fan, I encourage you to check out tonight's season premiere on NBC...you might just find yourself setting the DVR to record every Monday night like I do!

What shows are you looking forward to this Fall?

Fall Family Fun

We're still waiting on the weather to reflect it, but the calendar shows that Fall is officially here. So our family kicked our fall festivities off in full swing this weekend. We started Saturday morning with a childhood favorite of Hubby's (made by his grandmother, then mother). I heard much about these Apple Fritters long before I ever tasted them....and let's just say I was NOT disappointed. This is only the second time I've attempted to make them since we've been married (actually it becomes a team effort with the peeling, coring, slicing, battering, frying, etc.). I think it might have to become a first-weekend-of-fall tradition around here! Here are some pics, and the simple and delicious recipe...

Hubby taking his turn at the stove...

And the delicious finished product...YUM!

After breakfast, we headed out to a Fall Festival at a local farm park that recently opened. It's the first time we had been there, and we all had a great time!

The kiddos LOVED the animals.

And we even got to "milk" a fake cow! (After my comment on last Know & Tell Friday!)

Hubby and the kids "driving" a tractor.

They even had a pumpkin patch, and Little Miss and I got some pumpkins to bring home!

It was a great weekend to kickoff this Fall season, but I'm ready for some cooler weather, and I have the sunburn to prove it!

And as promised the Apple Fritter recipe...

Grandma's Apple Fritters

3 apples, peeled, cored and sliced

1 cup flour

1 egg

milk--enough to make batter the right consistency

1-2 Tbls vegetable or canola oil

1 cup of sugar and cinnamon mixture

Batter: Combine flour and egg. Add enough milk to make batter
the consistency of a thick liquid (make sure there are no lumps).

Heat oil in a skillet. Dip each apple slice in batter, making
sure it is completely coated, then add to skillet. Cook until
lightly browned, then move it to cinnamon and sugar
mixture until completely coated. Allow to cool.

Know & Tell Friday

Kayren at Everything's Coming Up Daisies is hosting this week's installment of Know & Tell Friday: Animal Edition. Click here for Kayren's original post and more great answers to these fun questions.

1. What dog do you most resemble? I would say my personality most resembles a Golden Retriever--loyal (to a fault sometimes). My friends jokingly refer to me as "The Golden Retriever" of the group as I tend to remain loyal (to people, relationships, even commitments) longer than what is healthy at times.

My in-laws' Retriever, Jodie

(photo by my bro-in-law, Omerad)

However, after giving a quick glance at TerrificPets.com, I'd have to say I probably resemble the Chow-Chow more physically. I have very thick, very-naturally-curly hair, and according to Terrific Pets, "The Chow Chow is commonly recognized for the massive amount of fur that seems to encase its body." There are many times (for example when the humidity is high) that I feel a bit like this:

2. What is your favorite zoo animal? The giraffe...they're so amazingly huge, and yet they move with such grace.

3. What zoo animal reminds you most of yourself? I'm going to have to say bear...again the hair thing (thick and dark), plus the fact that I would LOVE to hibernate all winter long. I mean if I could get by with sleeping for months on end, you better believe I would do it!

4. Do you have any pets? If so, how many, what kind, and what are their names? Yes, just one...our first "baby" Chester. He was a gift from Hubby when we were dating, and he's named for the dog in Disney's movie, "The Kid." You know the one...."Chester, the world's greatest dog."

5. Have you ever ridden a horse? Yes. A couple of times on "trail rides" on vacation and once with a friend and his girlfriend who owned horses. Also, my uncle had a pony when I was little. We rode him quite a bit.

6. Have you ever milked a cow? Nope, and I never want to. My grandparents had a milk cow when I was little. I remember my grandma giving me chocolate milk then telling me afterward that it was cow's milk that she put chocolate in. She is such a smart woman, because she knows I would have never drank it otherwise!

7. Why don't sheep shrink when it rains? I have no idea, but Kayren shares some interesting theories in her answers.

Hope you enjoyed this week's edition of Know & Tell Friday. Don't forget to head over to Kickin' It In Crazyville and check out Heather's and Reese's answers, too. Happy Friday!

Zoe is a Star!

For those of you following the amazing story of my nephew, Zoe, he is currently making the local television stations buzz. The three major news affiliates in Savannah have covered his story, and K-Love and Air 1 radio stations will air an interview with my sister and brother-in-law next week.

While we would never have wished for this situation to have happened to our family, we are so thankful for the voice it is giving to proclaim God's faithfulness and healing power. I am sorrowfully aware there are many similar stories out there, many with less-than-happy endings. I know my sister's and brother-in-law's intention is not to "flaunt" or "exploit" what is happening in their family. I know their intent is to bring glory to God and hopefully encourage someone else who is going through a similar battle.

We thank God for giving us Zoe, for sustaining Zoe's life, for giving Zoe a miraculous story. We know it's not because of anything we have done. It is because we serve an all-powerful, all-loving, ever-compassionate God whose love and grace know NO end!

Click here to see the news coverage of Zoe's story and a list of K-Love and Air 1 stations that will be broadcasting the story.

Fall Into Reading 2008

It's Fall....yea!!!! My favorite time of year. Even though it's currently 75 degrees here, I'm looking forward to the crisp, cool weather and curling up with a cup of hot apple cider, warm pumpkin bread, and a good book. That's why I'm looking forward to participating in the Fall Into Reading 2008 challenge hosted by Katrina at Callipider Days.

Since this is my first time participating in the reading challenge, my list is a bit sparse. With two small children and a hectic fall ahead of us, I'm trying to "ease" into this whole reading-challenge thing. I suppose I can always add to the list if, for some reason, I fly through the titles more quickly than expected.

I am also using this as an excuse to bring more variety to my reading repertoire. I tend to gravitate toward one type of book, so I'm trying to shake things up a bit and branch out by reading things I might not typically take the time to pick up. So, without further ado, here's my much-anticipated list:

The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson (currently reading)

The Shack by William Young

Bringing Up Boys by Dr. James Dobson

Wicked by Gregory Maguire

Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel

If you're an avid reader (or even if you're not), check out the details of the Fall Into Reading challenge, and join in the fun! There are so many good books waiting for you!

Menu Plan Monday

I have some bad news...my Beef Sour Cream Noodle Bake from last week turned out rather...bland. I mentioned it was a new recipe and promised to post it if anyone was interested. There was some interest in the recipe, but I'm afraid it was so disappointing, I just can't (in good conscience) pass it along. The good news is that I realized (as I was making it) that I already have a similar recipe that I really like. (Sometimes it takes me a while!) So, I'll post that one soon.

With birthday celebrations last week and Hubby working all weekend, we didn't get to a couple of the meal plans from last week. That made this week's menu so much easier! ;)

Monday--No Peek Chicken, green beans, french rolls (I found the link...yea!!)

Tuesday--Italian-baked tilapia with garlic-tomato pasta

Wednesday--Teriyaki-grilled pork tenderloins with Asian noodles/veggie stir-fry

Thursday--Leftover buffet

Friday--FAMILY NIGHT OUT!!

Saturday--Grilled Tri-tip, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies

Sunday--Mama's kitchen is closed!

For lots more menu ideas, head on over to Org Junkie or check out the menu plans at newly-renovated Blissfully Domestic.

********I don't know why there are no hard-returns...I can't get them to
stay once I publish. I apologize for the run-on post!*******

Happy Birthday Dad!

Circa 1971 (pre-Nancy)

Today is my dad's birthday. (Yes, we have a lot of September birthdays in our family!)

I've always been a daddy's girl, and now that I'm a parent I have such a greater realization (and appreciation) for the sacrifices my parents made for me and my sisters. When my parents were just starting out, my dad sometimes worked three jobs just to put food on the table so that my mom could stay home with me...and that was on top of trying to plant a church in Northwest Kansas. I can't imagine putting in such long days on top of the sleepless nights that come with young children!

Thank you, Dad, for all the sacrifices you've made, for the spiritual disciplines and hunger for biblical knowledge that you not only taught me, but lived out before me, and for so much more. I love you, Daddy! Happy Birthday!

Another Year Older...

Well, it's been a bit of a crazy week. (I feel like I say that a lot these days.) But this week included a bid day for me...my birthday. There, I said it...I had a birthday this week. I've always hated having a birthday in the middle of the week, because it just seems like another "average" day (school, work, etc.). But my family helped to make my day special, even in the midst of a hectic week.


It was a beautiful day, so we took a picnic dinner to our favorite park and let the kids run and play. Hubby dropped me and Little Man off at home (since it was Little Man's bedtime), and he and Little Miss went to "run errands." They came back with an arm load of surprises for me...

My Little Miss bringing me flowers

My collection of "goodies"

Yes, that is a Bon Jovi CD...I guess getting another year older makes me want to relive my "glory years." And a Daughtry CD...I've loved his music since I saw him on American Idol. What you may not recognize is the small carton in the bottom right corner...a pint of my absolute favorite treat in the world...Andy's Frozen Custard. They're original to my hometown, but they've now franchized, so if you live near a location, I HIGHLY recomment you visiting one. (And I recommend the Snowmonster!)

What's your favorite birthday memory?

Menu Plan Monday

Well, Monday is almost over, but I'm finally getting my menu plan up. For more (and I do mean LOTS MORE) menu ideas head on over to Org Junkie...she's the brains behind it all!)

Monday: Homemade Sloppy Joes (recipe to follow), Baked Potato Slices, and corn on the cob

Tuesday: Beef Sour Cream Noodle Bake (new recipe...if you're interested I'll post it), salad, French rolls

Wednesday: No Peek Chicken (found the recipe at Blissfully Domestic, but can't find it now to link to it...sorry! I'll post it if you're interested), greens beans, garlic bread

Thursday: Leftover buffet

Friday: Family Night Out

Saturday: Grilled Tri-tip, baked potatoes, salad, rolls

Sunday: Every man for himself!

Homemade Sloppy Joes

(from Weight Watchers)

1 lb. diet lean hamburger
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup ketchup
3 T. barbecue sauce
1 T. Mustard
1 T. Vinegar
1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire Sauce
1/4 tsp. pepper
6 hamburger buns

Brown hamburger & onion.
Add next 7 ingredients & simmer for 15 minutes.
Serve on buns.

Makes 6 servings

_____________________________________________

I also forgot to post the recipe for my slow cooker pulled pork from the birthday party last week, so here it is:

“Party” Pulled Pork

3lbs pork shoulder/butt (It doesn’t have to be a really good piece of pork since it’s just for sandwiches)

1 can Mexican style diced tomatoes

1-2tsp of chili powder

Combine ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low 8-10 hrs. Add to buns (can also add BBQ sauce and cheese if desired).

So easy and so good! Enjoy!

Happy Birthday, Little Man!

His birthday was actually on Friday, and his party was last Monday. But this is the first chance I've had to post and wish my son a Happy 1st Birthday! I can't believe it's been a year already! When I was expecting Little Miss, I had so many people tell me, "Enjoy every moment; it goes so quickly!" I had no idea how true that is!

Happy Birthday, my Little Man! I love you!

Mommy