Watch this before you go shopping!

The ADVENTure of Christmas

Redeeming the Meaning of Christmas

Are your holidays a cozy, reflective time of making memories with your children, pointing them to the true meaning of CHRISTmas? Or are they a frenzied blur of activities, crisis shopping and secular trappings that have nothing to do with the true essence of the season? Fear not....armed with this book, mom, this year can be different!

As I reflect on Christmas traditions from the past and plan new traditions with a deeper meaning, I am SO thrilled with this book. A lot of wonderful information in the book that can help deepen the spiritual life of the entire family during the Christmas season. It takes all the very traditions we're practicing and giving the spiritual meanings behind them. She uses over 20 symbols and traditions of the season- candy canes, carols, lights, Christmas cards, gift giving, etc..- along with their history to teach lessons of love and life. With each mini-history piece are recipes, ideas and activities designed for family togetherness.

Birdseed Wreath

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups water

4 1/4 ounce pkgs. Knox unflavored gelatin

8 cups birdseed

Boil 1 1/2 cup water. Empty the 4 packages of gelatin into 8 tablespoons of cold water in a large bowl. Let the gelatin sit for 1 minute. Add the boiling water and stir for 2 to 3 minutes or until the gelatin has dissolved. Stir 8 cups of birdseed into the gelatin, mixing thoroughly. Let the mixture set for a few minutes, then stir again. Repeat this process a few times allowing the seed to absorb the liquid. Spoon the mixture into a greased bundt pan and put in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. Remove the wreath from the mold by inverting the pan and tapping along the bottom. The pan may need to warm to room temperature before the wreath will come out. Allow the wreath to dry overnight or longer if necessary. (I found it needs to be on a cooling rack to let the air circulate.) Use several strands of raffia to form a loop to hang the wreath.

Dear Children,

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My Son's name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I didn’t send my Son in December, it was some of your ancestors who decided to celebrate My Son's birthday at what was, in ancient times, a pagan festival; although, I do appreciate Jesus being remembered...anytime.

How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate Jesus' birth just,

GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My Son's birth, then make room on your lawn for the nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all my followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all the trees. You can remember me anytime you see a tree.

Instead of fusing over trimmings and traditions, consider giving My Son one of the gifts below this Christmas…

1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.

2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.

3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again.

4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.

5. Pick someone who’s hurt you in the past, forgive them, and give them the gift of a future—free from the pain, shame, and guilt of yesterday’s yuck.

6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile, it could make the difference. Also, you might consider supporting the local Hot-Line: they talk with people like that every day.

7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one.

8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary, especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name. You may already know someone like that.

9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no “Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. Be sensitive to the needs of others. A few cans of food or a simple gift can go along way towards good will on earth.

10. Finally if you want to make a statement about your belief in Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.

Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Please, if you love me, love my children—all of them, especially the ones that challenge your traditions. I'll take care of all the rest.Invite others to a Christmas festival that has more to do with eternity than all the trimmings and traditions of December 25th.

“Merry Christmas!” means: “I love you.” – God

Thanksgiving 08

Acts of Kindness

Just a few suggestions on what you can do to help others...
#1
Donate your professional clothes to an organization that helps people get back into the workforce
#2
Give gently worn home furnishings or household appliances to a person or family who might need them, or donate them to an organization.
#3
Take warm clothes, blankets or food to a homeless person that you often cross paths with.
#4
Donate toys and books to a homeless organization. Toys and books are just as important to kids as food and shelter.
#5
When shopping, buy a couple of extra non-perishable food items and take them to a food drive or pantry.
#6
Make an extra serving of dinner and bring it to a homeless person in your neighborhood.
#7
Donate age-appropriate learning materials to your local schools.
#8
Write notes of appreciation to schoolteachers, principals, nurses, custodians, and secretaries.
#9
Read with your children every day.
#10
Start them early. Bring toddlers and preschoolers to the library to choose books for reading at home.
#11
Give your gently used books to a local school or organization that can help under-privileged children.
#12
Spread the joy of reading -- read to your friend or neighbor's child too.
#13
Pick up trash on the playground or around the schoolyard of your local school.
#14
Rake leaves and pull weeds at your local elementary school.
#15
Thank the school bus driver for taking your kids safely to school everyday.
#16
Make improvements to the teachers' lounge at a school in your neighborhood.
#17
Give blood.
#18
Go on a walk with friends or neighbors for a little exercise or conversation.
#19
Assemble and deliver a basket of vegetables or fruit and a few flowers for a homebound person.
#20
Sew, knit, or crochet comfort items -- small quilts, hats, stuffed animals -- for the local hospital.
#21
When visiting a hospital, spend a few minutes with someone who might like a visitor, but ask first!
#22
On your way to the grocery store, ask a homebound or elderly neighbor if there is anything you can pick up for them.
#23
Accompany a friend to a doctor's appointment if they could use the support.
#24
Share your favorite healthy recipe with a friend or family member.
#25
Encourage friends who are trying to quit smoking.
#26
Teach someone about good nutrition.
#27
Be a daily medication reminder for someone.
#28
Take care of yourself first, with a healthy diet and activity.
#29
Tell your children why you love them. Be specific.
#30
Help them appreciate art. Create a craft project with a child.
#31
Make dinner with a teenager, or find any other excuse to keep them in the room with you for some conversation.
#32
Involve your children in your daily routine -- preparing meals, setting the table or cleaning up -- they like to feel helpful.
#33
Ask your children to go through their toys and donate some of them to those who are less fortunate.
#34
Children learn by watching -- lead by example.
#35
Offer to keep an eye on the kids of a busy neighborhood mom or dad if they need to run an errand.
#36
Do minor repairs on an elderly neighbor’s home.
#37
Make floral arrangements for senior centers, nursing homes, hospitals, police stations, or shut-ins.
#38
Talk, sing, or read to nursing home patients, especially those without family nearby.
#39
Help a senior neighbor with his errands, grocery shopping or other household tasks.
#40
Offer to drive an elderly friend to an appointment.
#41
Invite an elderly neighbor over for dinner, or bring dinner over to her.
#42
Teach an elderly neighbor how to use a computer -- get them connected!
#43
Share your favorite photos and memories with a senior. And ask him or her to share favorites with you.
#44
Help your elderly neighbors with strenuous tasks like lawn mowing, leaf-raking, or snow-shoveling.
#45
Bring your favorite grandparent -- it doesn't have to be yours -- some fresh flowers.
#46
Listen to music with a senior and compare favorites from yesterday and today.
#47
Keeping in touch keeps them going. Visit or call an elderly homebound person.
#48
Smile and say hello to an elderly person you don’t know.
#49
Help your elderly neighbors get the facts before they apply for loans, hire contractors, or donate money.
#50
Take good care of your pets. If you cannot give them the care they need, take them to a shelter or other pet adoption organization.
#51
Put bird food out for our feathered friends, especially in the winter.
#52
Check the products you buy to see they are not tested on animals.
#53
Share your friendly pets with those who enjoy being around animals but do not have any of their own.
#54
Visit a hospital or nursing home with your friendly pets.
#55
Donate your gently used towles, blankets, toys and supplies to your local animal shelter.
#56
Keep an eye out when you see lost pet signs, and help in the search if you can.
#57
Teach your children and others to love animals, visit a zoo.
#58
Share your umbrella with someone who doesn't have one.
#59
Write a thank-you note to a mentor or someone who has influenced your life in a positive way.
#60
Always say please, thank you, and you're welcome with a smile -- you'll get them back!
#61
Leave an extra big tip for a friendly waiter or waitress.
#62
Defend others. Speak up when you hear someone use a racist remark, whether it’s a family member, neighbor, co-worker, friend or stranger.
#63
Demonstrate a deep respect for other cultures, races and walks of life so that your children will, too.
#64
Discuss stereotypes and intolerance you see in what your child watches on television.
#65
Pick up trash at playgrounds, schoolyards, or other community areas.
#66
Vote. Educate yourself about issues affecting you, your community and our nation.
#67
Know your neighbors. Talk to them about safety, security and even noise level on your street.
#68
Organize a neighborhood clean-up day.
#69
Plant a tree in your yard or neighborhood.
#70
Replace harsh chemical products with environmentally safe cleaning and gardening products.
#71
Pick up trash, especially plastic or other non-degradable items that are in the street. Storm drains lead directly to our rivers and oceans.
#72
Start an office carpool. Save gas, money and get to know your coworkers.
#73
Reduce the amount of disposable products and packaging you buy and use.
#74
Recycle whenever possible. If you have a yard, try composting.
#75
Replace your standard light bulbs with energy-saving compact fluorescent lights, also known as CFLs.
#76
Replace showerheads with more efficient, water-saving models.
#77
Recycle your cell phone. It's free and you’ll help support a healthier environment.
#78
Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when full.
#79
Soak pots and pans rather than let them sit under running water while you scrape them clean.
#80
Turn off water while you brush your teeth and save 4 gallons a minute.
#81
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalk. It saves water and prevents debris and oil from going down storm drains and into rivers and oceans.
#82
Change your car’s air filter. Cleaning your air filter regularly can improve your gas mileage significantly.
#83
Don’t speed. Being a good driver can save you some dollars at the pump. Speeding uses extra gas.
#84
Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. Longer grass retains water better.
#85
Remind everyone to turn off the lights, television and computers when they are done.
#86
Check out your child’s school recycling program. Ask whether recycling bins are accessible and if the kids are encouraged to use them.
#87
Spare the air, save a buck. Air conditioning can decrease your fuel efficiency by as much as 12 percent in stop-and-go traffic, so consider cracking the windows.
#88
Only heat or cool the rooms you need -- close vents and doors of unused rooms.
#89
Save energy by sealing and weatherstripping your windows and doors.
#90
Protect ocean wildlife. Remove fishing lines, nets or plastic items from the water when you’re not using them.
#91
Ask your school and workplace to purchase environmentally friendly paper and try to use less.
#92
Give potted flowers, plants, trees or seeds as gifts. They won't end up in a landfill.
#93
Instead of tossing old clothes or household appliances, give them to someone who could use them or donate to an organization.
#94
Donate Blood.
#95
Bring food or other useful items to emergency volunteers or locations.
#96
Write a letter thanking your local emergency management workers (police, firefighter, EMT) and let them know how they have helped make a difference.
#97
Help your neighbor organize an emergency plan and put together an emergency kit.
#98
Pitch in to clean up the wreckage after a disaster. Even if it happened in another place.
#99
Volunteer to distribute food, water or other supplies to disaster relief crews and victims.
#100
Lend a hand in your area of expertise – medicine, construction, cleaning, cooking, counseling.
#101
Ask that everyone buckle up when riding in a car.
#102
Help someone who might need assistance crossing the street, but ask first.
#103
Let staff know of spills or other dangerous conditions in their restaurant or store.
#104
Lead by example, wear a bicycle helmet.
#105
Learn the Heimlich Maneuver.
#106
Take a CPR training class and keep your certification current.
#107
Always obey the speed limit and drive safely and courteously.
#108
When driving, be aware of emergency vehicles and pull over to let them pass.
#109
Keep an eye out for kids in your neighborhood. Start a neighborhood watch program.
#110
Volunteer to take calls for a child abuse or crisis hotline.
#111
Report child abuse or domestic violence.
#112
Teach children water safety.
#113
Late at night, always walk with a friend to your car or anywhere you are going.
#114
Help a friend who’s being bullied.
#115
Warn children about going anywhere with strangers.
#116
Help your friends and family create emergency preparedness plans.

20 Steps Toward Good Karma

This was emailed to me today by someone special and I never want to forget it~


Instructions for Life by The Dalai Lama

1. Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.

2. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.

3. Follow the three R's:
- Respect for self,
- Respect for others and
- Responsibility for all your actions.

4. Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.

5. Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.

6. Don't let a little dispute injure a great relationship.

7. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

8. Spend some time alone every day.

9. Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values.

10. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.

11. Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it
a second time.

12. A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.

13. In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don't bring up the
past.

14. Share your knowledge. It is a way to achieve immortality.

15. Be gentle with the earth.

16. Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.

17. Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.

18. Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.

19. If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.

20. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.

I want to be a good mother~

What is a good mother, anyway?

A good mother doesn't nag — much. Only the essential amount and only about essential matters. Like where to squeeze the toothpaste, how to hang up pants without making eight creases, the inadvisability of 20-minute showers, and which noises are easily produced but socially unacceptable.

A good mother has a speech that begins, “When I was your age, kids had it much harder. My mother didn't take me everywhere. I didn't have all these things you kids take for granted....” She belts out this national anthem of motherhood regardless of the indifference of the crowd. She can make herself heard over a blaring CD player by teenagers hanging opossum-like over a bed with a phone plastered to one ear.

A good mother cooks, cleans, and launders without expecting to be appreciated. She knows that only in TV commercials do kids get excited about fragrant T-shirts or seeing their reflection in the china. In real life most kids have lost the directions to the laundry room and would be content to eat off paper plates or pizza boxes eternally.

But a good mother is much more than just a resident reminder service, cook, cleaning lady, and laundress. A good mother is a launching pad with a soft lap: hardheaded about discipline (especially compared with “everyone else's mother”) and soft-hearted about everything else. She motivates her children to help them reach their full potential and praises them whenever she catches them doing something right.

A good mother gives her children more than a balanced diet and a roof over their heads. She teaches them how to feed their souls and gives them a spiritual foundation on which to build. She directs them into the right paths and prays for them when they occasionally wander off onto others.

A good mother cares how her children turn out. She doesn't just wait for them to get out.
Stationary companies have tried to glorify motherhood by producing syrupy slogans on plaques. One of the worst is: “God couldn't be everywhere, so He created mothers.” That phrase may sell a lot of trivets, but it just isn't so. God is everywhere, and mothers can't be. I know because I've tried.

Maybe God created mothers because He needed someone to keep every generation reminded of His presence. Good mothers have been doing that for thousands of years, ever since Eve held her first wriggling infant in her arms.

Motherhood doesn't need to be sentimentally glorified with ridiculous statements, but it does need to be respected. It is a high calling, a God-given challenge.

The writer of Proverbs 31 described the woman who, like his mother, was a good mother: “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed” (Proverbs 31:25-28a, New International Version).

As important as mothers are to us, it is amazing how often we take them for granted. Mother's Day is a good time to arise and call your mother blessed, but any day will do as well — as long as you do it before it is too late.

Legendary Alabama football coach Bear Bryant used to remind his players: “Be sure to call your Mom.” Then he would add wistfully, “I wish I could call mine.”

So do I.

Not Me Monday

Back for another week...go to MckMama's blog atMy Charming kids for others, and to read hers. Now on to the things that I definitely did not do this week…

I did not work on personal business Tuesday afternoon to the point that I had to work 1 1/2 over. Not me! Actually I printed daily hanger labels to organize Hannah's clothes for the week.

Of course I would not pack Hannah's lunch and leave it out overnight. I would never have to drive thru McDonald's and wrap her lunch in foil to disguise a Happy Meal.

I most certainly did not share 2 different sad, but inspiring, stories with the "tender hearts" I work with and each walk away sobbing.

I didn't drop our awesome new laser thermometer on the floor today and cause it to completely fall apart.

I did not suffer from a miserable kidney infection this weekend and spend my Saturday in bed.

I did not plan Hannah's favorite meal ~ grilled steak, steamed broccoli, baked beans, and chocolate cake and she didn't take a bite! Hannah did not complain of a tummy ache while I was cooking and throw up. She took a bath and went to sleep at 7:30.

I did not get up with a sick child at 2:30 this morning.

I did not put a rubber band on my wrist to remind me to not yell or use bad words!

Meatless Monday
Breakfast ~ Eggs & toast
Dinner ~ Ziti Casserole , garlic toast & iced tea

Tuesday
Breakfast ~ Cinnamon Toast
Dinner ~ Chicken tortilla soup

Wednesday
Breakfast ~ Peanut butter & chocolate chip pancakes
Dinner ~ Frito Chili Pie & root beer

Thursday
Breakfast ~ Instant breakfast
Dinner ~ Roasted Chicken, mac & cheese


Fun Friday
Breakfast ~TGIF Cinamelt from McDonalds
Dinner ~ Pizza frozen, takeout or homemade)

Saturday
Breakfast ~ anything goes
Lunch~ anything goes
Dinner~ Cookout Pork chops, corn on the cob

Sunday
Breakfast ~ muffins, fruit, juice
Lunch ~ Sandwich, chips & kool aid picnic on river front
Dinner ~ Roast, rice & gravy, green peas, tea & rolls pineapple upside down cake



See more menu plans at Organizing Junkie.

What Would Jesus buy

Found at Home is Where Your Story Begins~


Consumerism is rampant in our country. Everywhere you look you are bombarded with ads telling you that you need this gadget or that one to make your life complete or to be important. Are "things" really what we need to be happy? Would Jesus be happy with how we buy anything and everything we "need"?

What Would Jesus Buy? (2007) follows Reverend Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping Gospel Choir as they go on a cross-country mission to save Christmas from the Shopocalypse: the end of mankind from consumerism, over-consumption and the fires of eternal debt!

From producer Morgan Spurlock (SUPER SIZE ME) and director Rob VanAlkemade comes a serious docu-comedy about the commercialization of Christmas. Bill Talen (aka Reverend Billy) was a lost idealist who hitchhiked to New York City only to find that Times Square was becoming a mall. Spurred on by the loss of his neighborhood and inspired by the sidewalk preachers around him, Bill bought a collar to match his white caterer's jacket, bleached his hair and became the Reverend Billy of the Church of Stop Shopping. Since 1999, Reverend Billy has gone from being a lone preacher with a portable pulpit preaching on subways, to the leader of a congregation and a movement whose numbers are well into the thousands.

Through retail interventions, corporate exorcisms, and some good old-fashioned preaching, Reverend Billy reminds us that we have lost the true meaning of Christmas. What Would Jesus Buy? is a journey into the heart of America – from exorcising the demons at the Wal-Mart headquarters to taking over the center stage at the Mall of America and then ultimately heading to the Promised Land … Disneyland.

Will we be led like Sheeple to the Christmas slaughter, or will we find a new way to give a gift this Christmas? What Would Jesus Buy? may just be the divine intervention we’ve all been searching for.

The Shopocalypse is upon us … Who will be $aved?
This movie was amazing and hilarious. It really captured the way our culture has become so ingrained to buy the newest, next best thing or our lives won't be complete. Although I don't necessarily agree with the methods to encourage people to buy less the message in the movie is one that we really need to hear.

Some facts from the movie:

3/4 of consumers view Christmas with dread
We will spend 1/2 trillion on Christmas pushing ourselves further in debt (which is already past 2.4 trillion total)
Christmas has become so commercialized that people now spend under 1 hour per week in a house of worship and 5+ hours shopping
We also spend on average less than 40 min in meaningful conversation with our kids. But they watch on average over 40 hours of tv
As we move into this holiday season I encourage you to check out the movie. It will be eye opening and may just encourage you that your kids don't really need that new ipod.

*Disclaimer: In my opinion, the man seems to be making fun of church, especially the really charismatic ones. But my husband checked out his website and said that they actually seem like they really respect Christianity and probably are Christians. Just wanted to give everyone fair warning.

Please take a moment to think about the men and women, husbands and wives, sons and daughters that are serving our country today, and those that have served in the past. I wish I could hug my veteran today, but he, like so many of them, doesn’t get to take this holiday.

So, this one goes out to all you, around the world.

Thanks for your service!

Another week has gone by an that means another 7 days of things that I could not have possibly done! Drop on by MckMama's blog and get your free therapy by seeing that you're not alone in the random happening of the week!

1. I did not send Hannah to school with a cough for the school secretary to call and have me pick her up. I did hear an occasional cough while she was sleeping but she had no other symptoms.

2. I didn't go into a second movie at the theater without paying. We watched THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES and Hannah was so miserable that we just had to peek in MADAGASCAR on the way out!


3. I hope I did not get so distraught for the Presidential Election results that I made my self sick.

4. I did not have to call in to work because of a migraine headache and not be able to lift my head til 5 PM. Sweet Hannah fended for herself.

5. I was not so sick that I couldn't take Hannah to school for 2 days and then after picking up her stack of homework realize that she should wait til Monday to return to school.

6. I didn't send Hannah to school in the wrong schools fleece. She called me from school to let me know that not only did I pick up the wrong fleece from her after school care center..but the wrong school logo too

Menu Plan Monday

Monday
Breakfast ~ Eggs & toast
Dinner ~ spaghetti & garlic bread

Tuesday
Breakfast ~ Cinnamon Toast
Dinner ~ Chicken tostado, fiesta corn, refried beans

Wednesday
Breakfast ~ Cereal
Dinner ~ Chili with the fixens

Thursday
Breakfast ~ Instant breakfast
Dinner ~ Chicken

Friday
Breakfast ~TGIF Cinamelt from McDonalds
Dinner ~ Pizza frozen, takeout or homemade)

Saturday
Breakfast ~ anything goes
Lunch~ anything goes
Dinner~ Cookout hamburgers, brats

Sunday
Breakfast ~ muffins, fruit, juice
Lunch ~ kids meal at the park
Dinner ~ Grilled steak, baked potato, broccoli, Bushes grilling beans, devils food cup cakes

How I Plan My Weekly Menu

When I first began grocery shopping I realized what a bad shopper I was. I would take my 6 year old daughter and we walk around aimlessly for about 2 hours going down every aisle and put things in my cart that looked good. When I would finally finish look into my cart I would realize that I really didn’t have meals or foods that “went” together. I would become so frustrated that I would actually abandon my shopping cart and we would go out to eat. It honestly didn’t seem more costly because of my bad shopping skills and the toy in a kid’s meal was free compared to the ones my child would toss in the cart. I knew I had to develop a plan! I searched the internet and found a few places that I could relate to www.flylady.com and www.orgjunkie. They were tremendously helpful. Now I shop with a plan, coupon organizer and most importantly ALONE!

My I begin planning my weekly menu on Wednesday. Hannah is at church and I have the new sales papers for the week. I have a zippered binder that I altered to be my shopping. I have several tabs and use baseball card & photo holders. I have my master menu & current menu in sheet protectors to refer to as needed. There is also lined, full sized writing pad for my list.

I do shop at Wal Mart and use the price comp. I have the sale papers in a front pocket and I note on my shopping list the sale price and store. The basic staples are priced higher at Kroger and Albertsons but I can’t buy the prepackaged meat from Wal Mart.

Menu planning saves time, money & energy. It is a lot less stressful when you don’t have to worry about what you are going to cook.

1. Take inventory of frozen meats, canned veggies & misc items on hand.
2. Check my grocery store sale papers of Kroger and Albertsons for great prices
3. Check for requests and craving
4. Check my coupon organizer
5. Master Menu Planning Guide

Monday
Breakfast ~ Eggs
Dinner ~ Meatless Monday

Tuesday
Breakfast ~ Cinnamon Toast
Dinner ~ Taco night/Mexican

Wednesday
Breakfast ~ Cereal
Dinner ~ Slow cooker or dinner @ church

Thursday
Breakfast ~ Instant breakfast
Dinner ~ Chicken

Friday
Breakfast ~TGIF Cinamelt from McDonalds
Dinner ~ Pizza (game night or movie)

Saturday
Breakfast ~ anything goes
Lunch~ anything goes
Dinner~ Cookout celebration

Sunday
Breakfast ~ muffins, fruit, juice
Lunch ~ kids meal at the park
Dinner ~ Nice Sunday dinner, rolls & desert


6. Check my list on the fridge for things we have run out of.
7. Make my list based on the above.

I am thankful for my Sunday school class. I already love my church. The activities for the children brought me there. I met a few other moms through Hannah's programs but I never really found a class that I fit in with. A few months ago a new class started for single moms. I didn't go to the introductory class and hesitantly went to the 1st actual class. I loved it! I became excited to go every Sunday, enjoyed listening to the CD's and looked forward to the emails. I used to feel like I didn't have enough church clothes and I wanted to be able to sleep in on Sundays. God sent me to the perfect church for Hannah and I. I am now so inspired and I feel so blessed to be a part of this wonderful church family.

REGLAZED SILHOUETTE PLATES

PROJECT: REGLAZED SILHOUETTE PLATES
Materials:Thrift shop or unwanted ceramic plates
8 1/2-by-11 inch inkjet sticker project paper
Scissors
Foam brushes
Rubbing alcohol
Porcelain paint

This project is an excellent example of resourcefulness: turning something
ordinary into a thing of beauty.
A visit to any Goodwill store will lead you to a treasure trove of plates
in unusual patterns, available for pennies. Also, your own home may
have stacks of unwanted ceramic tableware full of outdated floral and
kitschy patterns—perhaps passed down from another generation—
that clash with today’s simpler, cleaner table settings.
Like a chipped piece of furniture in need of a good coat of paint,
consider reglazing these plates into gorgeous new pieces.
Print an image off the computer of a silhouette you find pleasing on
sticker project paper; choose a shape that is easily identifiable. I chose
this simple image of a cow and enlarged it to fit the size of the plate.
With a pair of scissors, cut out the image, peel off the protective
backing, and adhere it to the center of the plate. With a foam brush,
clean the exposed surface with rubbing alcohol. Once dry, brush a coat
of porcelain paint on the plate. You may need several coats of paint,
depending how dark you want the glaze to be. Allow to dry overnight.
Peel off the image from the plate and place it in the oven. Heat it to
350 degrees and bake the plate for 25 minutes. Turn off the oven and
allow the plate to cool completely inside the oven. Your handmade
plates are hand-washable only.

I am thankful for our Girls Pamper Night every Saturday after a long day of chores. We pamper ourselves and get ready to look our Sunday best at church tomorrow morning. Sunday can now be truly a day of rest and relaxation.

This is how we do it~

1~ Set up a scented candle in the bathroom

2 ~Play relaxing music

3 ~ Treats (necessary)
Goodnight Hugs or Kisses
Frozen Grapes

4~ Facial
Scrub
Mask
Wax/tweeze

5 ~ Pedicure
Remove polish
Massage/spa soak
Trim nails
File
Polish
Moisturizer
6~ Manicure
Remove old polish
Soak in spa
Trim
File
Polish

7 ~ Bubble bath

8~ Shave

9~ Hair
Shampoo
Deep conditioner for hair

Saturday's Parade of Chores

Kitchen:
1. Sweep & Scrub floor.
2. Scrub & bleach counters
3. Clean stove/oven
4. Clean out refrigerator.
5. Replace foil on drip pans.
6. Sweep porches front and back

Bathrooms:
1. Polish mirror.
2. Empty trash.
3. Scrub tub, toilet, sink & floor.

Bedrooms:
1. Clean Mirror.
2. Vacuum carpet.
3. Dust.
4. Change sheets.

Livingroom, Dining Room
1. Dust furniture.
2. Vacuum carpet.
3. Clean mirrors.
4. Toss old magazines.

Paperwork and Misc. Duties
1. Plan menu for next week.
2. Plan next weeks activities
3. Wash & vacuum car.
4. Check budget & bills.
5. Clean out purse.
6. Water and fertilize plants.
7. Wash, fold & iron laundry. Mend as needed
8. Plan clothes for week
9. Pet care Bathe & clean litter
10. Straighten out laundry room.
11. Defrag & clean computer
12. Errands:
a. Grocery
b. Library
c. Gas car
13. Take trash and recycling to the street for pick up

20 Things to Treasure in Autumn

1~ Cool weather
2~ Opening the windows & airing out our home
3 ~ Fall back – love the extra hour of sleep
4 ~ Fall carnivals
5 ~ Jack o lanterns & pumpkins
6 ~ Hayrides and cornfield mazes
7 ~ Halloween costumes
8 ~ Hot apple cider
9 ~ Fall cleaning
10~ Soup, stew, chili and Gumbo
11~ Roasting marshmallows
12~ Howard’s annual Halloween party
13~ Pumpkin spice candles
14~ Eggnog Daiquiris
15~ Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends
16~ Back to school clothes & shopping
17~ Snuggling in my down comforter
18~Fairs
19~Outdoor movies
20~Saving money on my electric bill

I am thankful for Laundry Day

I never thought I would enjoy doing the laundry but I never thought I would be without my own washer and dryer to use at my whim. When I lived in an apartment that offered hookups I was forced to use the machine shared by 4 families provided in the garage. It was miserable! Sometimes it worked and sometimes it didn't. Sometimes it would be in "use" for days and I would have to go to the Laundromat and spend a lot of money and time waiting around. The worst part was needing to wash 1 item and having to find $2 in quarters. I probably spent $70 a month on laundry for 2 people. I am thankful I have a washer and dryer of own. I will never forget the year I did without.

I am thankful for the rain

I love the rain. I remember driving my precious, nature loving Hannah to school in the rain. I complained about the rain and what an ugly, messy day we were in for. Hannah at the age of only 5 year instantly responded "It is not an ugly day! God makes the rain for the flowers and grass to grow". I think about that day often and I am so proud that I have a child that sees the good instead of the bad. I look forward to the rain. I love the feel, sound and the smell!

A Holiday Project!

I found this at A Soft Place to Land and fell in love! Girls we have go to try this!

Monograms are so hot right now. I see them everywhere and on everything. But this is one of my favorites!

Ballard Designs
The monogrammed wreath! So pretty!

HGTV
I can't wait to make one. I think I'll use faux foliage so that I can use it for more than one year. I'm still working out exactly how I'm going to make it so if anyone has any brilliant ideas, do share!

I love this beautiful one from Paula at Sweet Pea! She made it herself (with a little help from her hubby)!

Random Advice 604

There's always one

moment in life when

the door opens and

lets the future in.

~Graham Greene

Let's Be Very Thankful

Tuesday's Election got a lot of people in all kinds of uproar and fear. For many the worst case scenario came true. For many this was a historical moment and proud moment for their race. There is so much negativity and controversy going around, it has been hard not to get caught up in it.For many the result of the election has left many fears and worries of what the future that our Country hold for us.

Yesterday I found this on another blog and thought it was absolutely wonderful and absolutely true. No matter how you feel about the outcome of the election...this applies to everyone! Everyone needs to remember this.

A True/False Quiz About the Day After The Election

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, Jesus will still be King. Let' s be thankful for this!!

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our responsibilities as Christians will not have changed one iota.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my primary citizenship will still be in this order - (1) the Kingdom of God, (2) America, not vice-versa.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the cross, not the government, will still be our salvation. Let's be thankful for this!

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our children will still be more concerned with whether or not we spend time with them than with who is President. Let's be VERY thankful for this!

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my neighbor will still be my neighbor, and loving him/her will still be the second greatest commandment. (Do you know the first?)

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the only way to see gay marriage ultimately defeated will still be winning men and women to a biblical view of marriage through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, we will still know that God is in control. Let's be thankful for this!

20 Little Attitudes of Grattitude

1. Mind your manners. Say please, thank you and excuse me.
2. Smile when you see your family. Turn your frown upside down.
3. Pick up after yourself.
4. Notice when others do kind things for you, show gratitude by action or words.
5. Say I love you before going to bed.
6. Give hugs daily.
7. Don’t worry about tomorrow. Focus on what you are happy about today.
8. Create gratitude journals to keep track of daily blessings.
9. Show thankfulness for even the little things others do for you.
10. Leave love notes in unexpected places like lunch boxes and under pillows.
11. Encourage someone with a compliment.
12. Verbalize what you are grateful for when you feel like complaining about life.
13. Keep a basket of small slips of paper on the table. Write notes of thankfulness during the week and read them to each other during a family meal.
14. Remember to thank God for blessings each day.
15. Surprise your family (or friends) with little gifts or treats to show you thought of them.
16. No grumbling about minor annoyances around the house.
17. Do special things to cherish time with your family. You never know what tomorrow will bring. 18. Reflect on happy memories regularly. Make inspiration boards of special times.
19. Help someone out without them having to ask you. Watch for someone in need.
20. When you are doing household chores, be grateful you have a home to clean.

I found this list at one of my fav sites The Inspired Room. I am going to begin working on mine too. We all have so much to be thankful for.

I am thankful for the right to vote. My voice is heard and I can make a difference

Celebrate Election Night

Planning on watching (and hopefully celebrating!) today's historic election with friends? Serve up some fun cocktails with a decidedly presidential presentation to help mark the occasion! Here are few ideas:


FLAG SALUTE ~
The flavors of pomegranate and blueberry make a fun red, white & blue cocktail!
Ingredients:2 parts Stirrings Authentic Grenadine2 parts Stirrings Blueberry Martini Mixer3 parts Smirnoff Vodka

Directions:Layer this shot by adding grenadine first, followed by the cold vodka poured in slowly off the back of a spoon. With a steady hand, add the Blueberry Mixer on top by pouring it off the back of a spoon. Decorate with flag toothpick.

VOTE ON THE ROCKS ~
A delicious, balanced blend of organic sour cherries with citrus juices, agave and bitters mixed with tequila.

Ingredients:2 parts Stirrings Organic Classic Sour Cherry Mixer1 part tequilaGarnish: Cherry and “vote” pick ("vote" sticker or computer-printed design + blueberries)

Directions:In a cocktail shaker, combine Organic Classic Sour Cherry Mixer with tequila and plenty of ice. Cover and shake vigorously. Strain into glass and garnish with a cherry

Check out Simply Stated for lots of fun ideas for all occasions!

Random Advice # 72

“Don't tell your problems to people:

eighty percent don't care;

and the other twenty percent

are glad you have them”

Lou Holtz

Cardboard Testimonies

My Sunday school teacher sent me this. It is incredible!

I am thankful for~

Motherhood ~ To look at your child and realize that she gained life within your own body is a breathtaking moment. To look at your child and realize that she will remember you as “mama” when she herself is 80 years old and the Earth is shattering. Everything you say and do will have an impact on her ~ and consequently, every successive generation.

Monday
Breakfast ~ Eggs & toast
Dinner ~ Baked pork chops, mac & cheese, green beans, tea

Tuesday
Don’t Forget to VOTE
Breakfast ~ Oatmeal & Cinnamon toast
Lunch~ Happy Meal at the park (Hannah is out of school)
Dinner ~ Taco night, fiesta corn, root beer

Wednesday
Breakfast ~ Pancakes, sausage, juice
Dinner ~ Red beans, sausage & rice, cornbread muffins, tea

Thursday
Breakfast ~ Cereal
Dinner~ Chicken stir fry & rice, tea

Friday
Breakfast ~ At Micky D’s Cinnimelts & Chocolate milk
Dinner ~ Frozen Pizza & Coke game night

Saturday
Breakfast ~ Anything goes
Lunch ~ Lunch out – The Girls are coming to town!
Dinner ~ Cookout hamburgers, root beer, chips


Sunday
Breakfast ~ Muffins & Juice
Lunch ~ Pizza with Sunday School Class
Dinner – Baked chicken and rice, corn, rolls & cupcakes


Snacks swiss rolls, goldfish, oatmeal cream pies, pretzels

Click on Menu Planning Monday with Laura

I am thankful for ~

November 2 ~ My faith in God and my church family.
I am very blessed to be a part of a wonderful church and an amazing group of Single Moms. We are in a series called Hope and Help for the Single Mom. I look forward to every Sunday morning.

Be strong, be couragous. Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged, for the Lord, your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

Spooky Party

We went to the annual Howard Halloween Party. Colleen and Maggie are the most gracious hostesses. Inside and outside were perfectly decorated with tricks and treats a plenty. The kids dress up and have so much fun torturing each other, roasting marshmallows & wieners. The little girls were just precious!

Party til the princess poops out in the dog bed!

I'M THANKFUL FOR...

November 1 ~ I am thankful for my family.

Families are the compass that guide us. They are the inspiration to reach great heights, and our comfort when we occasionally falter.-- Brad Henry