Shugart Family Rambling Spot

MENUOPOLY, don't break the BANK...

2011-12-19T00:16:00.013+01:00

Trying to get back on a budget and schedule, I have really been slacking since Shane left. Below is our menu for the week, actually it will be for 2 weeks, b/c I am doubling each recipe and freezing. That equates to me cooking 7 days and a break for 7 days, YAY!! I have not tried any of the recipes, so no promises, BUT if you do not have time to prepare your list feel free to use this one. I am a little nervous about the anchovy, BUT you only live once right?!

MENU

Monday: Bean and Cheese Enchiladas w/spanish rice

http://eatathomecooks.com/2010/07/bean-and-cheese-enchiladas.html

**to save more you could make your tortillas from scratch and used DRY pinto beans instead of cans**

Tuesday: Chicken Tortilla Soup

http://eatathomecooks.com/2009/09/chicken-tortilla-soup.html

Wednesday: Hamburger Vegetable Soup with corn bread

http://eatathomecooks.com/2009/02/hamburger-vegetable-soup.html

Thursday: Western Omlett Casserole

http://eatathomecooks.com/2011/01/western-omelette-casserole.html

Friday: Taco Soup

http://eatathomecooks.com/2008/10/taco-soup.html

Saturday: Dipaola w/salad and cheddar muffins

http://eatathomecooks.com/2009/05/red-sauce-dipaola.html

Sunday: Lentil Tacos w/refried bean and spanish rice

http://eatathomecooks.com/2009/05/lentil-tacos.html

**Breakfast will be oatmeal 1 week and homemade pancakes the following

Lunch will be leftovers for ME ;) **

FILLERS

Depression era homemade bread

http://eatathomecooks.com/2009/03/depression-era-homemade-bread.html

Cornbread

http://eatathomecooks.com/2008/10/cornbread.html

Cheddar Muffins

http://eatathomecooks.com/2009/02/cheddar-muffins.html

Snickerdoodle muffins

http://eatathomecooks.com/2010/05/snickerdoodle-muffins.html

Shopping List

3 garlic cloves
bag of onions
2 green peppers
1 red pepper

2 bags of flour
yeast 7 tbs.
cornmeal
sugar

oatmeal

anchovy fillets

2 Black beans
2 Pinto beans
2 Kidney beans

3 beef broth
52 oz. chicken broth
3 tomato sauce
6 oz. tomato paste
5 diced tomato
2 Rotel
spaghetti noodles

10 oz. enchilada sauce
3 taco seasoning
taco shells

refried beans
salsa
flour tortillas (8)
corn tortillas (10)

2 spanish rice

barley or rice 1/2 cup
Lentils 1 cup

Whole frozen hashbrowns
2 frozen corn
2 frozen mixed veggies

4 chicken breast
4 lbs. hamburger
2 cups ham chunks

2 dozen eggs
gallon milk
sour cream
3 cheese small block or bag
parmesan
sticks of butter

Pantry (on hand)
garlic powder
cumin
chili powder
dry mustard
salt
pepper
olive oil
oregano
cram of tartar
baking soda
vanilla
cinnamon

CHOICE....

2011-09-16T18:19:00.029+02:00

I have been watching and keeping up with the 180 that has been going around facebook, because it does send a very powerful message to women and in some cases girls. I have struggled with sharing my personal experience because it was labeled a miscarriage or "technical term" spontaneous abortion, not a decision to abort the baby. However, I would not want anyone to experience what I did, especially if it is by CHOICE...Also, maybe a message of HOPE to those who have made the decision already to end a pregnancy...Just some brandomonium for thought....

FIRST, this pregnancy was OUTSIDE God's will for my life, I know this because I was 16, unmarried, and engaging in activity that I know goes against His word. I can paint a "pretty" picture of how this baby had to be His will blah blah blah, BUT that is a LIE...What took place should not have been so, and SIN has very devastating consequences, in this case many lives were shook and a loss of a life. The wonderful part though about our Lord, he is more than willing, and EAGER to receive us back. I would LOVE to say I ran straight into the arms of God and fuly accepted Christ as my Savior and TURNED away from all that brought me to that night...I DIDN'T, I continued to run for years...GUILT, and confusion plaguing every step...

THE BEGINNING: It took Shane and I some time to inform everyone of the pregnancy, STRESS is an understatement. Most nights I cried myself to sleep KNOWING full well I had really MESSED up. My senior year was going to be a TRAIN wreck and I worried about what all was going to be said. I already had "secured" my reputation because I was far from an "angel", but to add this to the top, it was confirmation to what everyone already thought of me. Shane and I disagreed about what to do, abortion was not an option, but my grandpa wanted me to consider adoption. That lit a HUGE fire when I mentioned it to Shane. Shane was insistent that he would NEVER let that happen, he would take the baby and raise the child on his own. He wanted to get married and I just wanted to finish high school. I wanted the baby, but I wanted "my life" too. My grandparents were devastated, so home was not a great place to be. We either "fought", sat in silence, or avoided each other. I could see the heartbreak all over each of them, I had been "taught" better, but I chose SIN over God. Many things were said during that time, from me and them, that honestly still linger...Words have a way of hanging around even when we "wish" we could take them back or forget. I spent a lot of time at my mom's house because it was an escape...My head was a wreck and life just seemed to be spinning out of control...When God says NO, it is not because he wants to take away our "fun", He says NO to PROTECT us.

THE EXPERIENCE: Shane and I had spent the day with my mom and wild brothers, later in the evening I went to the restroom and noticed I was spotting. I felt ok but was concerned, so I mentioned it to Shane. Not even 30 min. later I was having some mild cramping, so Shane suggested I ask my mom what was going on. She called the local hospital and they said to lay down with my feet elevated, I did. Shane went home, b/c of his curfew, and told me to call if I needed anything. My mom drove me home and the cramping would just not go away, so I called her back and told her I wanted to go to the hospital. She picked me up and we were off, I don't think my mom ever drove as fast as she did that night. Once there, they took me into a room right away, a nurse did my BP, weight, and temp. We talked while she worked...she wanted to know if the father was in the picture, what our plans were, etc. She was kind, patient, and she genuinely seemed to care. As she left she said the standard, "the doctor will be with you shortly"...

I lay in that cold room on the hard "bed" for HOURS...Finally the door SWUNG open and the first words out of the doctors mouth, "You are too YOUNG to have a baby any way...." TRUE, but not a very professional way to handle a situation that cannot be done over, we are here, time to face it...After talking to my mom while we waited, she had miscarried previously, I was expecting him to check for a heartbeat, do some blood work, or possibly do an ultrasound...something other than what took place. He asked me to place my legs in the stirrups, I complied. The nurse brought in a tray of "tools" and so it began...It was the most excruciating pain I have ever felt in all of my life. With every poke and tug I thought my whole insides were going to be pulled out...I literally SCREAMED in pain...I wanted my mom to make him stop, I begged him to stop, he said NOTHING just continued working.... The nurse grabbed my hand and squeezed it but offered no words...FINALLY he stopped, "well I got half of it, the other half will pass on its own." WHAT?! He then sent me off to have an ultrasound. I could see the piece of the child left behind...a haunting image, a REAL little life torn apart. That image alone is more painful than the physical pain that caused it, and it stays with you unlike the physical aspect that goes away. My prayer is that the baby was already gone before the doctor even started BUT that is something that only God has the answer to. I don't type this for opinions, I cannot hit rewind to "fix" it, I can only move forward.

THE AFTERMATH: I got home and was met by my grandpa at the door...My mind was even more jumbled than when I left and his words pierced my heart, "are you relieved" Relief was the furthest thing from my mind at that point, and it took all I had not to punch him in the face...Looking back, through adult eyes, I know he just didn't know what to say...I am sure they both felt relief, I know they wanted the BEST and this situation was not the best...I slept for a few hours and then went to my moms house the rest of the day. Shane showed up and stayed with me, I'll never forget his face when I opened the door...Shane was probably more heartbroken than I was at that point, I was just ANGRY...angry I put myself in the situation, angry at my grandparents, angry at the doctor, just plain ANGRY...Anger is how I dealt with life, it was EASY...If you are angry you don't have to face the situation....years of anger for so many other things and this was just the cherry on top...A wound I inflicted, because of my sin.

NEW LIFE: Married with 2 kids and 1 on the way, I surrendered my life to Christ in the fall of 2005. Immediately I understood my need for Him, the MESS that I was...BUT I still struggled with "accepting" His grace for myself....He continued showing me His LOVE as I continued seeking, and he still is showing me... I did not realize how much I had buried over the years, this situation was one of the many. In Oct. 06, I got a crash course in grief. My friends lost their little boy and it triggered all the emotions I had been holding in. I was finally starting to give God the child I had held onto for all those years through my anger. I was finally FORGIVING myself and accepting his grace for the train wreck mess I had made...I was finally able to look at the situation and see GOOD, from heartbreak. I was understanding more about how much God loved me in spite all I had done. While even though, something completely out of God's will, He still loved me. He was making it for MY good, even though it hurt like hell. I got a "little brush" of what God must have felt handing his child over for me, letting go was a must to move forward in a relationship I TREASURE. Transformation of my mind is something He continually is doing, when I live in surrender

HOPE: I don't know where you are personally in your life that has brought you to consider abortion, or maybe you have had an abortion and you now have extreme regret, burden, and pain. I don't pretend to "understand" the struggle within you, all that I know for certain is the PAIN, REGRET, HURT, GRIEF, SORROW, ANGER, Etc. that I felt for so many years of my life, because of this ONE night in an ER room where MY CHILD was lost, b/c of MY SIN. I still battle with , "was it a miscarriage" or "did I lay there and let him abort my child"....You WILL grieve, you WILL regret...Abortion is NOT the easy way out...a life ending in death is NEVER easy so please do not fool yourself. Some things I wish someone had told me at 16, or that I would have better understood... IF you have already ended the pregnancy I want you to really read this...If you had sex outside marriage and have found yourself pregnant or raising a child and others have abandon you, please know....

YES, you SINNED

BUT, you are not forever CONDEMNED

You CAN be FORGIVEN

GOD still LOVES you

GOD still DESIRES you

GOD still says you're WORTH IT

GOD didn't come for the "righteous", He came for you and me, the SINNER! There is NOTHING we can do to ever EARN our salvation and freedom, it is a GIFT. HE can take our worst moments and turn them around for HIS glory. There is always consequences to sin, and some are life long. BUT praise God, eternal HOPE can still be ours!! When you feel you are alone and NO ONE cares, and that what you have done is unforgivable...KNOW, that is a LIE!! God is waiting to hear from you. It is a CHOICE...life or death, eternally....CHOOSE WISELY... forgiven is forgiven, so LIVE your life showing you are so very THANKFUL for this gift!! How?! Completely surrendered to His spirit, relying only on Him moment by moment....Let Him transform your mind, heart, and soul today....Get in His word, get on your knees, spend some time with Him. Allow him to speak his truth over you and become the LORD over you...

Brandi's style

2011-09-10T03:39:00.001+02:00

Brandi's style by paiger131998 featuring gucci sunglasses

Cocktail party dress
£65 - warehouse.co.uk

Wet Seal mid calf boots
$33 - wetseal.com

Marni printed tote bag
$565 - theoutnet.com

Amrita Singh antique gold earrings
$100 - amritasingh.com

Gucci sunglasses
£180 - flannelsfashion.com

Another YUUUMMMMYYY!!

2011-08-23T03:15:00.005+02:00

Just a plain salad with broccoli, avacado, tomato, & cheese. Seasoned with garlic powder, black pepper, & salt.

Broccoli-Pasta Side Dish
INGREDIENTS
8 oz Linguine (cooked) • 1/4 tsp Pepper • 1 tsp Salt • 1 tbsp Margarine • 1/3 cup Vegetable oil • 2 Garlic cloves (minced) • 2 1/2 lb Broccoli (fresh, pieces) • grated Parmesan Cheese •
Servings: 6 • Ready: 40 minutes • Prep: 10 minutes • Cook: 30 minutes

DIRECTIONS
Sauté broccoli, garlic, margarine, salt and pepper in oil until tender. 1. Toss gently with pasta and serve topped with grated parmesan.

Lemon Chicken with Oregano

INGREDIENTS
6 chicken thighs • 3 (tablespoon) lemon juice • 2 (tablespoon) honey • 1 (tablespoon) olive oil • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 2 (teaspoon) dried oregano
Servings: 6 • Ready: 45 minutes • Prep: 5 minutes • Cook: 40 minutes

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place the chicken in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Combine the lemon juice, honey, oil, garlic and oregano; pour over chicken. Bake, uncovered for 40 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 180 degrees F and chicken juices run clear, basting occasionally with pan juices.

YUUUUUMMMMOOOO

2011-08-20T20:30:00.006+02:00

Our lunch was too DELICIOUS not to share, recipes included!!

Pasta Primavera
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cup Stewed Tomatoes

• 4 Fresh Mushrooms (sliced)

• 1 cup Summer Squash (sliced)

• 1 cup Zucchini (sliced)

• 1/4 cup Olive Oil (vegetable)

• 1 cup Green Pepper (sweet red pepper julienned is what I used instead, I don't like green)

• 1 cup Onion (sliced)

• 1/2-1 tsp Dried Basil

• 2 cup Pasta (I used vegetable Radiatore from Trader Joes YUUUM)

• Parmesan Cheese (shredded parmesan cheese optional)

Servings: 4 • Ready: 30 minutes • Prep: 10 minutes • Cook: 20 minutes

DIRECTIONS

1. In a skillet, saute onion and green pepper in oil until crisp-tender.

2. Add zucchini, yellow squash and mushrooms; saute for 1 minute.

3. Add tomatoes and basil.

4. Bring to a boil; reduce heat.

5. Cover and simmer for 8- 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

6. Toss with pasta; sprinkle with cheese if desired.

7. Yield: 4 servings.

Grilled Shark

Simply seasoned with garlic and lemon pepper and placed on a hot grill = DELICIOUS!!

It tastes like a very tender steak!

Herbed Salmon Fillets
INGREDIENTS
1/4 (cup) butter or margarine, melted

• 2/3 (cup) saltine crackers, crushed (I used oyster crackers from Trader Joes)

• 1/4 (cup) grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 (teaspoon) salt

• 1/2 (teaspoon) dried basil

• 1/2 (teaspoon) dried oregano

• 1/4 (teaspoon) garlic powder

• 4 (6.0 ounce fillet) salmon

Servings: 4 • Ready: 40 minutes • Prep: 5 minutes • Cook: 35 minutes

DIRECTIONS

1. Place butter in a shallow dish.

2. In another dish, combine the cracker crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, basil, oregano and garlic powder.

3. Dip salmon into butter, then coat both sides with crumb mixture.

4. Place in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish.

5. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

TEAM T.O.R.I.

2011-05-20T14:18:00.011+02:00

Do the homeless bother you? Do they scare you? Do they make you uncomfortable? I guess I can answer YES, to all of these...At some point in my life I shut down to the homeless, meaning if I just ignore them and pretend I don't hear their cries, they will go away. Living in Germany for 7 years only helped me in this case, I can honestly say I only seen a hand full of homeless during that time. I am sure they were there, just not begging or out and about as much as in the US.

Elim Christian Center in Poland reopened my eyes to the poor, poor in possessions but not poor in spirit, WOW...I attended church on the last day w/the mission group and to see people who had NOTHING physically reaching the skies praising our King ROCKED me....It changed my perspective and took the "fear" of the person away. Silly right?! I LOVED sorting clothes, making picture frames, and really just watching the LOVE that oooozed out of these people...I got back home, time passed, and all I did was toss money at a few organizations that do the work. I am not saying that is not important, the organizations need moolah to operate but I physically did nothing...I went to church, worked in the building, prayed for people, etc. but did nothing in the community...

I followed Project 50/50 on FB and sat in awe of all Shay Kelley is doing for the homeless around the US, and giving God all the glory for it...AMAZING....I would think, man, I wish I had that much FAITH!!! We moved back to the US about a month and half ago and Shay began to just add "blogs" w/other missions etc. and something stood out to me...HYGIENE KITS....Really something that SIMPLE?! Whoever came up w/it, AWESOME!! So that will be our "project" for the summer, putting together hygiene kits for a shelter and also some to keep w/us at all times. I know many do not like to hand out money on the streets, so here is your chance to give something that may even be more valuable than a few bucks!! Keep them in bag that can be tossed in your car when you leave your home, or in a backpack if you will be traveling around, you never know who God may throw along your path and you will be able to answer immediately!!

If you know me, you know I have to be some what organized, not OCD, just a plan stan...I began to think about a person who inspires me, JESUS is my #1, but my sweet little niece VICTORIA (Tori), who is 10, is right next in line....This little girl already GETS IT, she already has a heart for Jesus and his people...She wants to share the love with ALL, she is truly a SERVANT...One year, all on her own, she collected socks for a homeless shelter that her and her mother served at b/c she seen the NEED and she FILLED it!! AWESOME!! So in honor of her, we are officially TEAM T.O.R.I.! Next would be Michael Folsom and his team in Nicaragua, The Isaiah Ministry, the Isaiah verse is the call to move, and they are for sure moving in Nica!! So here you have it, the mind of a crazy person ;-)

TEAM
T: To
O: Offer
R: Relief
I: Isaiah 58: 6-7

Our goal for the summer is to put together 100 kits for the shelter and make some for us to keep at home for our out and about travels!! The kits will include:

Toothpaste

Toothbrush

Bar of Soap

Mouth Rinse (maybe not certain yet)

Shampoo

Body Bath

Deodorant

Shave cream

Razor

Pair of Socks

Washcloth

small bible (anyone know where to get some that are decent priced??)

Protein type snacks

Bottle of water

Another thought I have is to design the kit like AGAPE gifts, if you have ever done the Walk to Emmaus you know what I am talking about. Each item will have a scripture attached to it to show God's love for the person receiving it. For example, the white washcloth would have Isaiah 1:18 on it. I don't know if this will be allowed at the shelter so I need to ask first ;-D but our home personal ones will....If anyone has any good verses or fun God love sayings, for any the above items, SHARE your ideas w/me, would LOVE feedback and ideas!! I hope that this will be a "project" that continues even past summer season...I want my children to understand the importance and not live in "fear" like their mother, and that we as a family will go and physically serve those around us...Lord please help us to get over our own preconceived "ideas" of who people are, and step out in faith and LOVE, to serve...

Penny Pinching is not for the WEAK....

2011-04-19T14:10:00.006+02:00

Readjusting to life on this side of the pond has been challenging....Grocery shopping was something that I thought would be EASIER and CHEAPER here.....NOOOOT!! Our first visit to purchase ONE week worth of food, w/very FEW staples, cost us nearly $300 bucks!! I almost passed OUT b/c I did the math 300 X 4= 1200 a MONTH, WOWZERS....We cannot afford to EAT was my thought LOL....So, it took me ALL day of searching tips etc. for frugal eating BUT I came up w/a 2 week menu...I wanted to share, just in case you don't have the time to do surfing etc. and you really want to PINCH THOSE PENNIES!!! My prayer is to get even better as I do it more but I didn't think it was too bad for the first try :)

Our total was 287.76 BUT w/sales and coupons 76.00 was taken off giving us a grand total of 211.76 so word of advice PAY ATTENTION to instore sales and coupons!!! :) NO, I will not become a CRAZY coupon Lady b/c WOW, it gives me too much of a headache LOL...To break it down even more, we spent 5.04 per meal for a family of 5 (3 meals a day) Your bill will be less if you have all of your staples, we did NOT, so that is also factored into our 211 total...So, you would be looking at less than 5 bucks a meal...

THE PLAN

BULK cooking, meaning each recipe will be DOUBLED, which CUTS the cost...I will cook ONE meal, take half and FREEZE it for the following week....CUTS my COST and my TIME, basically I cook 7 out of 14 days and really only 6 b/c I am having one day called FEND FOR YOURSELF aka LEFT OVER DAY ;-) For breakfast for the 14 days, the kids can choose oatmeal (box instant) or pancakes, which I make ahead of time from scratch and freeze. Lunch this time around is sandwiches (freeze your bread if you need to) & veggies, I KNOW be JEALOUS lol....For snacks etc. we purchased some fruits, veggies, pudding, peanut butter, etc...FRESH stuff will be used this week and the shelf stuff for next week, hopefully that means I will not have to go back to the STORE until next pay day LOL...Dinner menu below.....our sides etc. are basic frozen veggies, canned goods, and frozen breads...I tried to find meals that were ALL in ones = CHEAPER!!

Mon. 18- Deep Dish Pizza Casserole
Tues. 19- Layered Fiesta Casserole
Wed. 20- Saucy Pork medallions
Thur. 21- Ultimate Drumsticks
Fri. 22- Ravioli Casserole
Sat. 23- FEND FOR YOURSELF (all the left overs from the week)
Sun. 24- Crockpot Beef Stew
**If you click the above dinner it will link you to the recipe**

Mon. 25- Deep Dish Pizza Casserole
Tues. 26- Layered Fiesta Casserole
Wed. 27- Saucy Pork medallions
Thur. 28- Ultimate Drumsticks
Fri. 29- Ravioli Casserole
Sat. 30- FEND FOR YOURSELF (all the left overs from the week)
Sun. 1- Crockpot Beef Stew
**If you decide to use the recipes, DON'T FORGET, to DOUBLE it or you will not have enough for the next week :)**

Pancake mix can be found here: http://www.food.com/recipe/homemade-pancake-mix-271940

In the future I will be trying to make more things from scratch and get BACK AWAY from BOXED junk!! Relearning HEALTHY living after taking a 6 month "vacation"....So THANKFUL I get to STAY AT HOME full time again, so it's my JOB to get things back in order :) and to STOP eating out, AGAIN.... Be BLESSED not STRESSED....

"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life." 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Caleb Buchta is HERE

2011-03-10T20:34:00.003+01:00

Hey Jess and Wes,

I hope you can SEE the pictures now :) CLICK HERE

Gabriel Family says, JUST SHOOT ME!!

2010-06-28T16:18:00.006+02:00

This past Saturday, I had the awesome priveledge to "shoot" the Gabriel Family, Alycia, Jared, and new little Isaiah. Jared was a HUGE blessing b/c he knew what he wanted and went for it, and I super APPRECIATE that!! I am not good w/posing etc., I see something I like and snap, I suppose that makes me a LAZY amateur photographer LOL...

I was SUPER nervous b/c I really wanted to get at least ONE good shot for them and this was my first LITTLE baby pictures to take. Isaiah was WONDERFUL, not at ALL what I had expected and prepared myself for, if only I could have relaxed and loosened up a bit LOL...He only cried when he had a little accident and didn't enjoy laying in it, when he had to put on daddies Michigan team outfit :-P, and after MANY MANY pictures he needed some mommy time and a little rest. BEST little trooper EVER, I hope if I ever take any more baby photos they are HALF as good as he was!!!

So here are a few of my favorites and they were HARD to pick b/c he is absolutely PRECIOUS!!!Cannot take bad pictures of beautiful people :-)....AGAIN, THANK YOU JARED AND ALYCIA for the opportunity to capture some memories for you!!

Lost in Translations....

2010-04-07T11:25:00.003+02:00

It has been a while since I last posted....I just had some thoughts that I wanted to share....

I have been able to take bible study classes all this year and I must say, I have really enjoyed them and they have opened up my eyes and heart a LOT...Which obviously I know is the Holy Spirit, not the "studies", at work in my life. One thing has been nagging at me though, I realized, I had no idea what I really BELIEVED!! I mean don't get me wrong, I believed in Jesus Christ as my Savior, BUT I had a very BASIC UNDERSTANDING of the power I have LIVING IN ME. I knew and could see the work Christ has done and is doing in my life and felt certain ways about things but still again, VERY BASIC TRUTHS....

I was COMFORTABLE with those truths and quite content to stay there b/c less RESPONSIBILITY on my part :-) However, THANKFULLY I submitted to His will and dove in head first. Had I stayed where I was "comfortable" I would be missing out on all the NEW TRUTHS and NEW FREEDOMS I have found in Him. Being in bible study was VERY INTIMIDATING to me b/c I felt as if everyone else was a million steps ahead of me...Going back to PRIDE, I didn't want to APPEAR spiritually challenged, for lack of a better word!! The beauty and TRUTH, we ALL are spiritually challenged in some areas :-)....NONE of us have it all figured out, we are ALL works in progress!! His time is ALWAYS the perfect time and we can TRUST that what He wants us to KNOW and GRASP, a TRUTH, it will be layed out for us!!

I remember walking into the fall semester, CLASSIC CHRISTIANITY (or as I called it CASUAL Christianity), and looking around the room at the ladies who were in it and thinking, MAN THIS IS GOING TO BE A LONG SEMEMSTER....The ladies who were in the class were ladies I felt were way more advanced than I, and how could I ever grasp anything they were studying LOL....Seriously, am I the only person who has ever felt that way?! Thankfully, it was the PERFECT group for me b/c God used each of them to help me to grasp the new truths. I took away not only a stronger relationship with my Father BUT ladies who I consider GREAT FRIENDS now. These are ladies I can go to when I have questions and we can share together without feeling intimidated. Again, I seen in my class that we ALL are learning NEW TRUTHS all the time and that is a WONDERFUL THING...To STOP learning and growing is the SCARY place, not the GROWING in Him!!

So, my point?! I encourage you to find a group of fellow believers to STUDY with....To go in with an OPEN HEART and do NOT let PRIDE stand in the way of GROWING IN HIM!! One TRUTH that I didn't even realize I struggled with is, I AM COMPLETLY FORGIVEN, I don't have to worry about God smacking me with His big wooden spoon!! There is NOTHING I can do or not do to make Him love me anymore or any less. Sin no longer has any power over my life, I get to CHOOSE how to live, by allowing the LIVING God to direct my paths!! Struggles = obedience and my High Priest, Jesus Christ, was NOT exempt from the struggles of this world BUT He OVERCAME and that my friend is where my HOPE rests!! Many, many more cleaning out of deceptions and being replaced with His word but I have bored you enough....Until next time........much LOVE!!!

2009-10-09T21:14:00.001+02:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Sleepover Fun...Makeup and marshmallows

2009-08-31T14:48:00.005+02:00

Grace came over and spent the weekend with the kiddos and they enterained each other very well. Shane may be a little upset about his boys getting "pretty" but to the girls defense, HAYDEN cried and whined for them to put makeup on him....So I'm thinking some football, baseball, soccer, etc. is in order when daddy gets home from Iceland!!! :-)

For desert the girls made chocolate marshmallow squares, basically smores, but then I BURNT them :-(...Sorry girlies but my oven is HORRIBLE!!! I have a video too of them "line" dancing that I will load maybe later or tomorrow....ENJOY!! Hayden getting PRETTY
Your daddy is PROUD

Hayden has ALWAYS loved makeup!!

Grace enjoyed making him pretty

He was soooo HAPPY

They got a hold of my baby too :-(

Time to cook again

Those marshmallows were NO FUN to put on the graham crackers

Chocolate syrup time

Before I burnt them lol

Proud of their work

Ready to get BURNT

VIOLA, BURNT snack :-(

SEAWEED AND OCTOPUS (Quadopus)

2009-08-28T19:14:00.008+02:00

Tonight we FINALLY got to fix our seaweed and octopus, but in our case QUDOPUS :-) I purchased the long skinny hotdogs and you need the FAT/STUBBY ones or the legs break off :-(

The kids had a good time and they said it was YUMMY :-)...Cannot wait to make these for a PIRATE party!!! Enjoy our fun in the kitchen w/kids cooking!!!Grace helping Kempi w/his octopus

They really did look like little octopus, YUCK
Grace adding the green to our "seaweed" aka Ramen noodles

Paiger cooking her octopus

Hayden cooking his octopus

Grace cooking hers...Hayden and her were seeing who's could cook the longest

Kempi boy and the "finished" product

The 3 amigos w/their food, they play so well together!!

EXTREME CLOSEUP :-)

Kempi said "watch me eat him"

So then of course I had to watch the others eat their octopus too

Grace LOVED this stuff, she ate 3 helpings :-)

Hayden liked the noodles best!!!

Bithday Smirthday.....

2009-08-10T20:08:00.004+02:00

This past Saturday I celebrated my 31st birthday. Now all of you KNOW how I LOVE throwing and having parties but I do NOT like getting one for myself and I do not like people giving me gifts. I HATE surprises, it is one of my many control issues lol...That is why I was so THANKFUL Shane was OUT OF TOWN lol, sad I know but it is the little things HA!

Well apparently my daughter has been bitten w/the same party and gift giving thing that I have...I knew she had been asking questions and stuff but I was ok b/c I just KNEW Shane would not be available for her to use lol...However, I did NOT think about Shane's sister by another mother living down the road, aka STEPHANIE!!! On Saturday morning Paige came home from a "sleepover" at Lillies w/gifts and a cake. She had Stephanie take her on a shopping spree, where she spent her OWN money for my gifts, makes me tear up again typing this...Then w/help from Stephanie her and Lillie baked and iced my cake, otay cry w/me you know you want to lol....

She knows how PRACTICAL her momma is and bought all the things that I LOVE, p.j. bottoms, slippers, and lotion. She also knew I had been complaining about Kempton stressing me out, whoops, so she bought me a STRESS PACK lol (smells good by the way)...Lillie made me some really SPECIAL little cards that CRACKED me up, that girl is crazy like my Hayden!!! She is all about Beetlejuice and all over the card it said, "Let's chew on a dog"....and a whole lot of other funny Lillie phrases....

As if all of that was NOT enough my daughter gave me the BEST birthday card I have EVER received....I asked her if she picked it out herself, she replied yes, and I asked why she picked it...and she said b/c momma this is you...This is what it says....

MOTHER, YOU'RE LOVED AND APPRECIATED

CHILDREN DO NOT REALIZE

As children, we can't eomprehend or fully realize

The meaning of a mother's love,

how tender and how wise,

Her patience and her guidance,

her helpful, caring ways,

The special, thoughtful things

she does

to brigthen up the days.

Years go by, before we know

the depth of her concern,

The love in her ptrotectiveness-

it takes so long to learn...

But as we grow we understand,

for we look back and see,

Through older eyes and wiser hearts,

her love and loyalty.

It's these and many other things

that make her grow more dear,

More admired more appreciated

with every passing year.

You're a wonderful mother.

Your're a beautiful person.

You listen with your heart.

You're always giving.

You derserve the best.

Happy Birthday with Love

I LOVE YOU MOMMA. DADDY DOES TOO. HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT B-DAY!

LOVE,

PAIGE, HAYDEN, KEMPTON

THIS FROM MY 11 YEAR OLD, WOW.....Over the past 3 weeks I have been short, cranky, stressed out, etc....and this would NOT have been a card I picked out for my mom had she been as cantankerious (sp?) as I have been w/them....I had been feeling like a COMPLETE FAILURE as a parent, I STRUGGLE w/that thought daily...I could do better, I could be this, or I could be that.....but then God shows yet more mercy on me and sends my child to say, HEY YOU'RE NOT MESSING THEM UP TO BADLY lol...I really needed that card for many more reasons than listed above, b/c Paige is who I worry the most about. She is the oldest and has SEEN and HEARD more than the other 2, she has NOT always been raised in a LOVING home so I give this moment to GOD....I THANK him, yet again, for all the grace, mercy, peace, love, etc...that is continually poured out over me. I THANK Him for a daughter who is beautiful not only on the outside but on the INSIDE where it counts....How she has managed to be who she is in the midst of all my craziness is another God thing and I give Him COMPLETE and TOTAL praise for her spirit. I also THANK Him for a wonderful friend, even though she is SNEAKY!! Relationships have not always been my strong suit but now I see them as more evidence that He is still working on me and growing me more and more...So this I think was my BESTEST birthday ever :-)

Berlin or Bust

2009-07-20T13:12:00.015+02:00

Berlin was a very AWESOME trip, we were very concerned in the beginning but it turned out GREAT!! I highly recommend a visit to this wonderful, unique, historical, and FRIENDLY city!!

Berlin is BY FAR, the MOST FRIENDLY European city we have visited!! Everyone is so very helpful and it is a good cultural experience. I was just amazed by how diverse people and area's were, yet they all just MESH quite well. From artsy, goth, punk, emo, to Upper class; everyone just smiled and functioned, sorry but SMILING is a HUGE plus for me!!! I have walked around so much here that I forget how nice it is to smile at someone and they actually smile back and not look at you like you are crazy!!! Don't get me wrong, Kaiserslautern is not unfriendly to Americans but they don't smile a lot lol...

Some of the highlights for me personally, the East Gallery Wall, WOW!!! Just to actually see how tall and how HUGE this wall actually was....Going on top of the Reichstag and seeing that Berlin just goes on forever (tour guide said over 3 million Berliners), over all atmosphere in Berlin (HUGE but places felt SAFE for the most part), again the freindly atmosphere threw me off too b/c I was expecting BIG CITY RUDE but they were very hospitable :-)...All the history just hit me on the way home and how thankful I am that this BEAUTIFUL city can still be so very diverse but that now it gets to function as ONE....to be FREE is a beautiful thing :-)

Some NON historical highlights for me....Tropical Island Resorts, about 50 min from Berlin, I HIGHLY recommend to families of all ages!!! My children LOVED LOVED LOVED this place, and so did Shane and I. On the website it says you cannot bring your own food in but we saw MANY bring in coolers!! I would suggest doing so because the prices of food is VERY HIGH...We have a family of 5 and it cost 50 Euros to eat and 20 euros to drink, the food however is DELICIOUS!! So either bring a big cooler or BIG EURO :-)...This place is open 24/7 and you can literally swim anytime and as long as you like!! GREAT FUN!!! We are already planning our xmas trip to there!!

Another NON Historical exhibit that we really enjoyed was BODY WORLD. It was very interesting, real human bodies and parts on display. If you do not believe in God you SOOOO have to check out this exhibit, and if you do believe in God you just stand in awe of how we truly our weaved together!!! WOW!!! If you support abortion, this is a MUST for you to see, it might make you reconsider the little life forming inside of you...They have every week of pregnancy in vials, and that whole "blob" looking thing everyone talks about is so NOT true....You can see that it is a baby VERY EARLY, w/in a few weeks!!! WOW....I did get a little teary through that section b/c the reality of them being REAL hits...they are not just "molds" they are actual little infants that did not make it full term and then there are several who made it full term but passed away....Just a VERY INTERESTING walk through...Paige and Hayden were asking all kinds of questions, that of course Shane and I could not answer lol...WARNING though, EVERYTHING is visible and my boys pointed out certain VERY VISIBLE anatomy. If I had this one to do over, I would probably ONLY take Paige, she is 11, probably not the smartest spot for really YOUNG kids. You have the option to "donate" your body to this man to put on display, I told Shane I would give mine up but I would ask for their phone # and addy to have someone contact them...I told Shane if they get desperate I don't want them to come hunting down my body and claim it before my time lol....Yes I am CAUTIOUS about people, there be some crazies out there lol....The location of this exibit did not help my "concerns", if you have ever seen Hostel (and NO I do not recommend seeing it HORRIBLE movie) but the building we went into looks like the area they were slaying people in the movie!!!

So overall, a WONDERFUL WONDERFUL trip to Berlin that we plan on doing again, hopefully soon!!! Enjoy the pics!!!

Waiting for Steph to feed baby Isaac so we can go to Body World
Waiting at the train station, on our way to Body World

Poor Charlie, I don't think he enjoys traveling with us, sorry!!

My little man Kemp da pimp

Hayden, Kempton, Lillie, and Paige standing by the Body World car

The outside of Tropical Island Resort

Shane and the kids inside Tropical Island Resort

Just more view of the inside

Garcia and Shugart fam swimming

The 3 BIG slides inside, they ROCKED!! Paige, Charlie, and Shane were the only ones brave enough for the blue slide...major WEDGIE that slide gives and I sooo didn't want one!!

Shane loved this bike and HAD to have a pic!!

Heading to the Berlin Wall East Side Gallery

Lillie and Charlie at the East side Gallery

Shugart Family at the East Side Gallery. The gallery is an international memorial for freedom. It is a 1.3 km long section of the Berlin Wall and consists of approximately 106 paintings by artists from all over the world. It is possibly the largest and everlasting open air gallery in the world. The first paintings began in 1989 right after the fall of the wall.

Hayden piece of the Berlin Wall

Kempton at the wall

Paige and she was not too happy about having to wear her head gear :-(

A tag on the wall

I LOVED this quote and believe it to be true!!!

Kempi and his little Trabi car

Waiting on our subway...It was neat using the public transportation but I felt very DIRTY afterwards...I could not get a hold of sanitizer quick enough!!!

Playing around waiting on our subway

RAISE YOUR HAND, RAISE YOUR HAND IF YOUR SURE!! Steph is sure heading to our stop!!

Brandenburg Gate

Issac trying to eat Steph's bread

Shane chowing at Tony Roma's in Berlin. I felt like I was back in America for a couple of hours, YUMMY food!!

The Jewish Memorial to the holocaust victims

Our tour guide said the designer was trying to make it "feel" like the jews did; isolated, desperation, a loneness, and seperated and as you wonder through this maze like memorial you get a sense of how they must have felt.

Charlie, Alex, and Lillie...they all look a little BORED, sorry

I LOVED the street entertainers and statues, AWESOME!! We had to get Hayden' s pic with these guys b/c they were AWESOME statues!!!

The fam in front of the Brandenburg gate

Antother great "statue" these people are AWESOME!!

I so wanted this car!!!

At the top of the dome at Reichstag

Berlin just goes on and on

Does this give you a sense of how HUGE this city is?!

Center of the dome, shane said it looked like the "computer" on the movie ROBOT

On top of the Reichstag

Getting ready for our open air train tour

Reichtag Building

This bridge connects East and west Germany

Royal Porcelain from Berlin

Humboldt Univerysity of Berlin

Church around Museum Island

Berliner Dom known as the "Protestant St. Peter's"

St. Mary's Church

Red Town Hall

Spree River

Friedrichswerder Church

This is either the French or German Cathedral but I cannot remember which :-)

Gendarme Market the Concert Hall
Christmas market set up outside here is suppose to be wonderful!!

Chocolate Museum with a CHOCOLATE RESTAURANT UPSTAIRS!!!

Checkpoint Charlie

Hi-Flyer Berlin

We wanted to go on this but it was too windy on sunday :-(

I am a little "tiffed" about these pics...Shane LOVED these silly little Trabbie cars that he totally MISSED the "important" pictures!!! Gestapo headquarters and more of the Berlin wall were across the street and down a bit from this location, silly boy!!!

Another shot of the Jewish memorial

and the tour is Done....great 40 minute tour for ONLY 5 euro's each!!!

Hayden and Paige BEGGED to ride this COOL BIKE...we were going to but it started raining pretty good so we needed to get back to our car!!

This is Berlin's walk and don't walk light....too cute!!!

Shane and a BELOVED Trabbie car!!!

Paige standing in East and West Germany :-)

Not really b/c according to the guide the wall was located more on the East side so they could climb the wall and "technically" still be in the East

Well I hope you enjoyed your tourn of Berlin....I have tons more pics to go through!!!

Week 2 of "baking" with the Kids

2009-06-26T21:54:00.002+02:00

We baked Teddy want S'more Muffins tonight, minus the "teddy". The commissary did not have any chocolate teddy grahms so we got 100 calorie oreos instead. Not sure what next weeks recipe will be but it is fun baking w/the kids...Well minus the boys getting a little too into the stirring :-)

This is where Kempi got too into the stirring and we had a small mess to clean up, WHOOPS
The boys LOVED this, beating up grahm crackers

Grommy would be proud, Paiger can still crack an egg!! I think she was about 2 when Grommy taught her to bake :-)

Hayden did the same thing as Kempi, got a little too into it

Adding the MALLOW!!Into the oven....

16 min. later....

Teddy want S'more Muffins

These were really good and "low" fat and some what healthy. My whole house smelled like a GIANT smore, YUUUUMMM....

Recipe

What You Need

42 squares HONEY MAID Honey Grahams, finely crushed (about 3 cups crumbs)
1/4 cup sugar
1 Tbsp. CALUMET Baking Powder
1 egg
1 cup milk
3 Tbsp. honey
1-1/2 cups TEDDY GRAHAMS Chocolate Graham Snack, divided
1/2 cup JET-PUFFED Miniature Marshmallows

Make It
PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Mix graham crumbs, sugar and baking powder in large bowl; set aside. Beat egg, milk and honey with wire whisk until well blended. Add to graham mixture; stir just until moistened. Stir in 1 cup of the graham snacks.
SPOON batter evenly into 12 medium muffin cups sprayed with cooking spray. Toss remaining 1/2 cup graham snacks with the marshmallows. Sprinkle evenly over batter; press lightly into batter.
BAKE 16 to 20 min. or until toothpick inserted in centers comes out clean. Let stand 5 min. in pan; remove from pan to wire racks. Cool slightly.
Kraft Kitchens Tips
Special Extra
For a special treat, drizzle muffins with 1 melted square of BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate. Let stand until set.
Make it Easy
Use an ice cream scoop to quickly and neatly fill the prepared muffin cups with the batter.

LABOR OF LOVE....CHERRY COBBLER

2009-06-18T10:59:00.004+02:00

YESTERDAY EVENING WE ALL WENT OUT AND PICKED SOME FRESH FRUIT IN OUR BACKYARD. THE KIDS HAD A GOOD TIME AND WE DECIDED TO BAKE A COBBLER. THIS WAS REALLY A LABOR OF LOVE COBBLER, A LOT OF SWEAT AND TIME PUT INTO IT :-) HAYDEN SAW IT COOKING IN THE OVER AND CALLED IT THE "RED" SEA LOL...IT WAS A FUN FAMILY EVENING, MINUS KEMPTON CRACKING HIS HEAD ON AN END TABLE IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ALL...THANK GOODNESS FOR A NURSE WHO LIVES DOWN THE ROAD ;-) ALL IS WELL AND WE ENJOYED THE COBBLER AT 10 AT NIGHT LOL... CHERRY PICKING IS FUN!!
KEMPTON LOVED HELPING DADDY

HAYDEN LOVED PICKING AS LONG AS THEY WERE CLOSE TO THE GROUND. DID NOT KNOW THE BOY HAD A FEAR OF HEIGHTS UNTIL SHANE PUT HIM ON A LADDER, NOT GOOD!!

CLOSE AS SHANE COULD GET THE BRANCHES TO THE GROUND

KEMPI EXAMINING STRAWBERRIES

HAYDEN ENJOYED STRAWBERRY PICKING MUCH BETTER B/C THEY ARE ALL ON THE GROUND

BIGGEST WILD STRAWBERRY WE FOUND, YUMMY

WE WERE ALL PICKING AND I NOTICED KEMPI WAS MIA...LOOK WHERE I FOUND HIM!! LITTLE BOYS AND PEEING OUTSIDE UGGGHHHH...

TAKING SEEDS OUT OF CHEERIES...NOT FUN!!

FINISHED THE HARD PART

MIXING THE BISQUICK, MILK, AND SUGAR

PUTTING THE FRESH CHERRIES IN

ADDING SOME CANNED CHERRIES FOR GOOD MEASURE

FRESH OUT OF THE OVEN...OH YUMMY

THE KIDDOS AND THEIR LABOR OF "LOVE"

Get in GEAR...

2009-06-17T11:15:00.004+02:00

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Yesterday, June 16, Paige put on the ever dreaded headgear. The process was a little painful for her she said. There was a lot of tugging and "banging" to get the appliances in place that support the gear. She was also measured and molded for the lumbar, which they will place next week and she is already praying it doesn't hurt. It took her about 30 min. to get it on last night but I told her with practice she will be doing it in minutes. After wearing it for about an hour last night she got a really BAD headache that NOTHING would touch. It was a really restless night at Shugart Manor, I felt horrible for her. She is a tummy sleeper too and there is NO way to tummy sleep w/that thing lol....Within minutes of her taking it off this morning though, her headache went away, so I was VERY thankful. It will take some adjusting but she is taking it in stride....Not a whole lot of complaints, she even said it doesn't look as bad as she thought it would. So here is her adventure yesterday...ABOUT TO GO INSIDE THE OFFICE

CLEANING AND POLISHING BEFORE PUTTING IN APPLIANCES

DONE W/THE PREP WORK

PLACING THE HARDWARE IN THE BACK OF HER MOUTH THAT WILL HOLD THE GEAR

VIOLA, HEADGEAR

I HAD TO LAUGH, FIRST TIME TAKING A DRINK W/THE GEAR ON....SHE DRIBBLED A BIT

STILL SMILING

A time in "SPACE"

2009-06-10T19:18:00.003+02:00

Today was the beginning of a very long process for Paiger and the excitement quickly ended. Her spacers were placed today and the "joy" was gone...I did not have spacers so I had NO IDEA it would be painful. Looking at the bands it seemed harmless until they shoved them between her teeth at 3 different locations. She was thankful she lost a tooth last week and only got the 3 instead of 4. She was a trooper though and I did not know she was in pain or that it hurt until later on. She had ice cream for dinner so that helped :-) Next Tues. will be a long visit for her as she will be getting the bar on her bottom teeth and the headgear. She said she is just ready to get it over with and is going to wear it 24/7 so she can get rid of it sooner lol...She was very EMBARASSED b/c I took the camera and made her take pictures!! I told her someday she will be thankful I took pictures so that she can remember her journey :-) GETTING READY TO GO INSIDE
MOM STOP TAKING PICTURES!!!

DR. RIPPLINGER EXPLAINING TO PAIGE WHAT SHE IS DOING

TELLING PAIGE NOT TO WORRY IF ONE OF THEM FALLS OUT OR IF SHE SWALLOWS ONE OF THEM. SHE ASSURED PAIGE THAT IF SHE SWALLOWED IT SHE WOULD GET IT BACK BUT NOT TO BRING IT INTO HER LOL

BLUE BANDS ARE THE SPACERS

12 Years Today

2009-05-22T17:51:00.009+02:00

Today Shane and I have officially been married for 12 years, and together for 16. I hope you enjoy the video babe, a little long, but sooo many memories caught on film over the last 12 years...

OLIVE JUICE...may we always remember where we have come from and hold tight to HIM for our today, tomorrow, and forever...

Here is the letter at the middle and end, sorry too small on screen :-)

June 10th is the BIG DAY for Paiger!!

2009-05-19T16:08:00.004+02:00

FRONT VIEW
LEFT SIDE

RIGHT SIDE

LEFT SIDE AGAIN

Today I went and met with Dr. Ripplinger to get the COMPLETE game plan for Paige's mouth and sign financial stuff, sad when you have to finance a mouth Haha!! The treatment time is going to be 2 YEARS, we are going to have to see if we can extend for a couple of months, praying really HARD the military will go for it!!

Sitting in that chair and looking and listening to the doctor it just felt like DEJE VU, she completly has MY genetics, poor kid!! Her molds, which I posted, are IDENTICAL to what mine looked like, I am trying to locate mine now for comparison!! The first step is NOT going to be braces, which I find wierd, b/c they are going to do the HEADGEAR FIRST!!! I thought you had to have braces to wear headgear but aparently NOT. When we originally spoke she said there were several options but when I met with her today, and after she fully reviewed Paige's xrays etc., she said headgear was going to be the BEST option :-(....I know I know, it will give her thicker skin...

She goes in for the first of 3 appointments for the headgear JUNE 10, and she said it will take 5 min. She will then go back June 16 and it will take one hour and then the 23 she has another 5 min. appointment. They will also be placing a lingualbow on the bottom teeth that will push them forward and hold spaces when her baby teeth fall out. She needs 6mm more of space, 3mm on each side of her lower jaw.

She will have both the lower and upper jaw corrected; upper jaw pushed back, lower jaw pulled out. Because of her bite she has adjusted her mouth to chew food, which caused her jaw to be offset and that will have to be fixed as well, mine did too...Wierd the things we do to our body and not even realize it b/c we are in SURVIVAL mode lol...

So as you can see, she has a very LONG road ahead and she is sooo NOT excited like I am...She is really nervous but I keep encouraging her that it is BEST to do this now and not have to go through the surgery when she is a teenager. Today when I showed her the molds, her response "man my teeth are really MESSED up mom" That is what I LOVE about Paige, she does not focus on the outer stuff, obviously, b/c she didn't realize how crooked they really were...So if you think about it, say a little prayer for Paiger in the next few weeks, teeth work can be a little painful...I also want her nerves to be settled and that she just have peace about the process and trust that this is BEST for her. Pray that the headgear is not to "traumatizing" lol...I really don't think it will be b/c she is so easy going about most things...Only time will tell.......Much luv......

Silent Auction Gift Certificate

2009-05-09T22:37:00.006+02:00

Today was Emma's birthday party and overall I think it went really well. I learned that I need longer than an hour to set up and a few more games added to the agenda ;). Emma's party was a gift certificate that was auctioned off at the Silent Auction, so my contract was signed off on today :). Below are some pictures of the big day, I hope you enjoy. I am really considering going ahead and getting SNICKELFRITZ up and going, there seemed to be some interest and that is always encouraging. I am just not sure I am ready to give up all my weekends any time soon :). Any how, ENJOY.... 6 of the princesses having tea and cake
Trying to get the halo's on

Princess Eden and Princess Samantha
trying to open up the "treasure" box

Princess Emma the BIRTHDAY GIRL

Craft station

Table Decor

More Table shots

Chairs and halos

My friend Tracy's BEAUTIFUL cake, check her out on my link site title beautiful cakes :)

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

Princess Wands aka Pretzel sticks dipped in chocolate and sprinkles

Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese sandwiches

Emma's Party Stuff

2009-05-07T19:48:00.005+02:00

I wanted to share the finished place settings for Emma's party. Along with the settings, I have also included the craft and favors each child will take home. The white cloth under the place mat is NOT the table cloth but simply napkins, so ignore that part, wrinkle free table cloth on Sat. :) There will be petal pink, hot pink, and white balloons on the floor and ceiling along with tons of streamers and tulle...I will hopefully find someone to take pics for me on Sat. to share....I am a little bummed that the bolts of hot pink tulle did not make it, so I will NOT get to create the tutu for the table skirts :(...I went to the fabric store here but they only have half a bolt of hot pink tulle and you need a LOT more than that.... Party Favor "bag" filled w/nail polish, lip stick, rings, bracelets, necklaces, and princess sucker

The Ribbon Wand

The Ribbon Tiara

Each little Princess will get to decorate her own tutu to take home

This is one of the two settings and I will alternate them on the tables

This is the other table setting, it is my favorite ;)

Below is the "game" plan outline

“Story” With games added in

STORY CLUE CARD 1
Well hello girls, so glad you could come today. My name is Brandi, I love to tell wonderful stories about dragons and fairies, and of course, there is always the tale of Princess EMMA. What ...you have never heard the story of Princess EMMA? Well...have I got a tale for you. Once upon a time in a far away land their lived a beautiful Princess named EMMA.... Princess EMMA...was very happy in her beautiful castle over looking her fair kingdom. One day the royal jester, came to tell her that someone had stolen the princess's fortune. All her jewels, gold coins and various other princess-like treasure had been taken. The princess was very distressed by this and called all the fair maidens to come to her rescue. The beautiful princess told all the fair maidens to go at once in search of her fortune. The beautiful princess had but one clue as to the location of her fortune, which she gladly shared with her royal public. The jester had found a slip of paper at the scene of the crime, which showed a map to a secret hiding place. They would have to walk out into the woods and locate a wishing well. At the wishing well they must toss “coins” in, and maiden who deposits the most coins will get the prize and the rest of the story clue. (Play the Coins in the Wishing Well game)

STORY CLUE CARD 2
From the wishing well Princess EMMA and the maidens could see a dark cave. They quickly walked over holding hands to have a look inside the cave. They had finally arrived at the secret hiding place. The princes and fair maidens ventured inside but to their amazement, the secret hiding place was empty. However, just as they were ready to leave, out jumped a dragon. The dragon jumped out and started to chase all of the fair maidens. (Play Freeze Dance Ball game with the girls. Last child CAUGHT wins a prize)

STORY CLUE CARD 3
The beautiful Princess EMMA, and all her fair maidens had been captured. They realized that they would have to fight the dragon to be freed. (use balloons to represent dragon and have relay race popping the balloon. Whoever is the champing popper gets a prize and the next story clue)

STORY CLUE CARD 4
The dragon now was defeated and knew that he would be banished from the kingdom. However, he boasted that they would never find the treasure box because the only one that knew of it's where a bouts had been put under a magic spell which could only be broken by cracking a secret code. What would they do now? At that very moment Princess EMMA noticed that someone had dropped a clue. (at this point throw out the princess story book at the feet of EMMA)
There was a fairy tale book that had not been there before. Princess EMMA...being an exceptionally smart princess (must have gotten her intelligence from her mother the queen), realized that this was actually an encoded message. Princess EMMA noticed that the word "princess" appeared often in the book and thought if maybe they counted all the Princess words and came up with the number they could use this to find out who was under a magic spell which could only be broken by saying this number. (have kids count the words princess and then go around and ask all the adults if they know the magic number. Have one adult be under a “spell” and have a key hidden (when the children ask her about the # she pulls the key out made of cardboard and aluminum foil and the rest of the story clues)

STORY CLUE CARD 5
The lovely maiden came out from under the evil spell and remembered that the dragon had placed a spell on her. The dragon had been angry that the fair maiden had seen him with the treasure box. Just before she was placed under the spell, she had seen the dragon drop a large key, which she had slipped into her pocket without him knowing. On the key was written the words: only the pure of heart may open the door (have kids look around the room for the hidden pinata)

At last they had found the treasure box. It was more beautiful then any had imagined, each tried desperately to open the box, using the magic key. The key however did not fit the box. Princess EMMA was very worried that her beautiful jewels and gold might have been stolen out of the treasure box. She offered to share all her wonderful treasures with all the fair maidens if only they would help her open the treasure box. They decided to hang it high in the air and each using their valiant strength try to open it by repeatedly hitting it with a large object (or pulling the strings). Would they at last be able to find the treasure? (Get the piñata “treasure” box and hang it high, have the rest of the story inside with the goodies)

STORY CLUE CARD 6
Finally, the treasure box was opened. Princess EMMA was so excited that her treasure had been found that she decided to throw a huge TEA PARTY for all her faithful subjects. They would have tea time fit for a Princess. There would be cake and ice cream along with their special pink princess tea. The proclamation was made: "Let's eat”

2009-05-05T13:47:00.002+02:00

I read this devotional this morning and I LOVE it and find it to be so true in my life. Most of my life I have not cared to have "relationships" b/c of fear of rejection and being hurt all over again...I still at times have to fight the urges to disappear from the "world" and hide out in the comforts of my home and family. I can make any excuse I care to make but it always boils down to FEAR OF REJECTION AND HURT...To open up to someone leaves you vulnerable and you just never know how anyone is going to react to you. We each have been "touched" in this world and we carry those marks along our lives journey. If we are seeking God and trusting Him, He can weed out the untruths in our minds, but it is not an overnight process...it is DAILY taking up our crosses and following Him as he purges those form our minds. So in saying that we each need to remember that we each have imperfections we are working on and it is ok to admit those flaws.

I have found, for me personally, when I admit my limitations and struggles; those struggles seem to become smaller and less of a giant hurddle. To realize there is someone who is on your side as support or cheerleader is an AWESOME gift to find. I finally see that my whole being cries out first for Him, that God spot has to be filled, and then it cries out for human relationships. God put us here TOGETHER, to share w/each other, support each other, care for each other, etc...It is time to get in on the GAME....start with the coach who has all the info., GOD...and then begin to train with your team, fellow christian friends....Then you are ready to tackle the "other" team, Satan, and all his works that SEPERATE the very thing our bodies crave, RELATIONSHIPS....Don't stay on the bench, GET IN THE GAME.....

Life Together: Authentic Friendships
by Rick Warren
In our Devotionals series, Pastor Rick Warren discusses the Bible passages that inspire him the most. Today's Devotional is based on this passage:
"But if we live in the light, as God is in the light, we can share fellowship with each other. Then the blood of Jesus, God's Son, cleanses us from every sin. If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:7-8 NCV).
In Christian fellowship people should experience authenticity.Authentic fellowship is not superficial, surface-level chit-chat. It's genuine, heart-to-heart, sometimes gut-level sharing.It happens when people get honest about who they are and what is happening in their lives. They share their hurts, reveal their feelings, confess their failures, disclose their doubts, admit their fears, acknowledge their weaknesses, and ask for help and prayer.Authenticity is the exact opposite of what you find in many churches. Instead of an atmosphere of honesty and humility, there is pretending, role-playing, politicking, superficial politeness, and shallow conversation. People wear masks, keep their guard up, and act as if everything is rosy in their lives. These attitudes are the death of real friendship.It's only as we become open about our lives that we experience authentic fellowship. The Bible says, "If we live in the light, as God is in the light, we can share fellowship with each other...If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves" (1 John 1:7-8 NCV).The world thinks intimacy occurs in the dark, but God says it happens in the light. We tend to use darkness to hide our hurts, faults, fears, failures, and flaws. But in the light, we bring them all out into the open and admit who we really are.Of course, being authentic requires both courage and humility. It means facing our fear of exposure, rejection, and being hurt again.Why would anyone take such a risk?Because it's the only way to grow spiritually and be emotionally healthy. The Bible says, "Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed" (James 5:16 MSG).

SMILE...(Paige is getting braces and and and)

2009-04-30T13:46:00.002+02:00

Today we visited KFO in Ramstein Village, Husband and wife team the Ripplinger's. Dr. Burga, the wife, is who assisted us and she was very informative. English is AWESOME, probably better than my English :). http://www.kfo-ramstein.de/engl/index.html

She looked at Hayden first and confirmed, he does have over crowding. However, she believes it is way too soon to begin altering his mouth because he has so much growing to do between now and when the jaw is done developing. She believes to begin stretching and altering could later in life cause BIGGER problems. She explained it all so very well that I have to agree with her medical opinion. He also did not get teeth until much later than most kids, he was over one, and has still to date has only lost 2 baby teeth. She said he is going to be a later bloomer in the dental/ortho world and to give his mouth that time. She said he will need work but to give him until about 14 because his bite is fine it is just more of cosmetic work for him.

Now on to Paige, not that we had any DOUBT, she will be getting a LOT of work and it needs to start immediately!! We go back to agree, or disagree with the game plan and sign all financing papers May 19 :). Unfortunetly, her mouth is going to cost what a small car costs :)...Thankfully though, God has supplied the extra monthly money to cover the 2 years, He is ALWAYS faithful!! She will begin with braces, and OH MY the ever dreaded HEAD GEAR :(....Dr. Burga was however very sweet, and she will only have to wear it from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. There is another option besides the head gear and she is looking into the cost for us. She said it costs quite a bit more but if this is the better way to go we will eat the cost :)!! She has to have some other hardware added to her jaw, but I will get all that detail on the 19th. She is hoping to have Paige completly done in 2 years but she cannot guarantee. Paige's face was PRICELESS lol....I am just sooo THANKFUL jaw surgery is NOT in her future!!! We got her in right on time and they can do it w/braces, head gear, and a few other appliances....YAAAYYY!!!

Lastly, she asked if she could glance at Kempton, he did not have an appointment......Well thankfully Paige will prepare us for him :)...His jaw is just like mine and Paige's....Atleast we will have about 6 years to financially recover after Paige's work ;)...Hayden once again feels left out; he doesn't have curly hair, he didn't have to get glasses, and now he doesn't get to have braces...POOR HAYDEN...Someday he will be thankful!!!

In closing, I HIGHLY recommend this clinic!! I have had a LOT of ortho work and this lady was on POINT!! Very informative and kind, she sat with us for an hour and was in no RUSH...This will tell you how GOOD she is, she walked in and was looking at Hayden and talking, she glanced over at me and she said she could tell I had my jaw fixed. No details were given, I don't even think I had smiled at her lol (all buisness mode), and she could tell...I began to get a little worried and she said NO NO it is fine I can just look at people and see...She said most models have had work done on their jaws and she can tell by flipping through a magazine, CRAZY!!! I have been to several dentists etc. who had NO IDEA until the xrays come back when the medal clamps etc. show up. She talked to the kids like they were important and not just focusing on Shane and I. She would not agree to do the work on Paige until Paige agreed. I never really took the time to give Paige that option b/c I was in, "Someday you will thank me for this" mode. Dr. Burga was correct by checking with Paige b/c utlimately it is not a LIFE THREATENING problem, and it is Paige's body. Paige needed to be allowed to say YES or NO and I was completly in MOM MODE....Not allowing her the normal boundaries we all so freely enjoy :)!!

On a side note, they do accept tricare, she said they pay up to 1000 or 1500 she couldn't remember for sure. So if you just have minor situation like just braces, it would probably cover 50% of your cost. Again, this is an AMAZING practice and they do not herd you like animals!!! Much luv....I'm........out!!!

As a chapter closes.....

2009-04-27T13:54:00.002+02:00

As I sat "balancing" out all of the funds for Kids Korner for the last year, I felt a little bitter/sweet. I am thankful that God gave me the opportunity to "handle" such a big ministry, and thankful He now will give me rest. I however, am going to miss the children of the ministry and all the "doing" for them. I will miss "organizing" the curriculum and all the FUN stuff about Kids Korner. I will however, NOT miss the recruiting and CRAZY Thursday mornings when almost EVERYONE calls in sick etc...The kids of Faith have truly touched my heart and remind me everyday how to walk by Faith. As this chapter closes and a new one begins, I will ALWAYS cherish the children of Kids Korner..

I ask that if you have a minute and God calls this to mind, please pray for the servant God wants to lead this ministry next year. I pray it be a person who has a heart not only for the children but a heart for the mothers. I pray that when the stress begins that she will rest in Him...I pray that when she feels overwhelmed, He will bring her peace. I pray that she remember it is NOT just about the children and that her heart stay softened toward the moms. I pray that her focus be completely on God and she allows Him to lead her. Most importantly, thank God for supplying servant hands to lead this beautiful ministry!!! I know He is calling and I pray she will hear His voice and respond without hesitation......Thank you...much luv...I'm out!!!

P.S. On a side note, as I was calculating and adding up; for the fall we had 61 registered children and for the winter/spring we had 85 children......God is good...Now let us harvest the very ripe fields!!!

On my mind...

2009-04-26T19:25:00.002+02:00

For the last several days my mother has been on my mind, as she often is. I made the playlist of songs that you are hearing on my page a long while ago. When the pain hurts a little too much I play these songs, and it reminds me of the "happy" times that I remember. Way back before life got too complicated, when it was me and her cruising the streets of the ROCK with her friends. WOW, how life has changed since those days...Those were the most peaceful moments I remember from being litte, the moments of me and her...I pray that someday things will be different and there will be peace....As much as I try, I can never NOT love my mother, not loving would be the EASY part...I know I will NEVER be the daughter she wants and she will NEVER be the mother I want but I pray some how God can make a way.....The way we humans complicate life sometimes......Any how enjoy the music, I can thank her for GREAT TASTE in songs....I LOVE these old tunes, back when music was music....Where ever you are mom, know I LOVE you; always have and always will....my cross to carry...

"SLUMBER" Party...you know NO ONE Slumbers..

2009-04-25T14:35:00.006+02:00

Psalm 4:8 "I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety."

Last night we hosted a slumber party for the kids, 6 friends, at our house. My kids had a great time and are already ready for another one, I however need atleast a week or two lol. I am thankful that we know people who will allow their children to come over so that my kids will learn EARLY how to form healthy, cherished, and fun relationships. All of the children got along for the most part, the boys did have to go outside for awhile so the girls could have some "girl" time. Kempton was a little sad at first because his friend had to leave, but maybe next time he can listen and get to stay all night. He however "hooked" up with Grace and she babied him so he moved past and played with the girlies all night. Below are some pictures of their fun and sorry i do not have many of the boys but they were too busy for pictures :). ENJOY!! L to R: Lillie as Taylor, Paige as Kelsey, Grace as Gabriella, Abby as Sharpey, and Kempton as thier pet puppy I think they "played" high school musical ALLLL night!!
Photoshop Fun

Paige and Abby

Paige and Lillie

Paige and Grace

Attack of the CREAM CHEESE

Not sure but this is just Lillie :)

Grace "posing" lol, she had some pretty interesting "modeling" poses

Eli trying to escape the camera, haha I got you!!

L to R: Lillie, Eli, Paige, Hayden, Caleb, Abby, and Grace Munching out on some banana splits

Caleb chowing down

Caleb watching Hayden and Eli play the WII

Paige fell asleep first and me being the "nice" mom that I am found the other girls some cream cheese to attack her with

Took her a while to figure out what was going on, she just kept wiggling and wiping and finally WOKE up

Taking it like a sport and laughing it off, which I am glad!! She is usually a BEAR when she get woke up....

So over all I think all had a good time, next time we may have to NOT invite Mr. Shane. He forgets what it is like to be a kid and have slumber parties!! He thinks that him and his friends were always GOOD AND QUIET...now I know Shane and I HIGHLY doubt he was QUIET :)...Much Luv....I'm....out!!

Random Day...

2009-04-08T08:00:00.002+02:00

I was having a rough day the other day and wanted to be very UGLY and HURT like I was being hurt...I however felt inspired to put my thoughts down and the UGLY went away :)..I thank God for teaching me to stop, pray, think, and BE QUIET!!

Untitled by Me

Broken is the world we live in,
hurt and pain ever increases.
Hearts shattered and anger released,
when will we ever see a love feast?
.. ..
Alone in our minds and consumed by our thoughts;
We wage war against each other, tearing down His flock.
Never pausing as we rage, but smiling through His pain.
When will we ever see, it is not about me?!
.. ..
This world will soon pass away,
and everything that mattered will seem so vain.
To miss the gift, that was freely slain,
will be the greatest shame.
.. ..
Victory is given, to each living soul;
Broken to mended, with one answered call.
Freedom through pain only comes from Him.
Victim or Victor, your choice to make…..
.. ..
On the tree He died for all humanity;
Now it is our turn, die to self and be FREE…
Risen again with Christ as head,
Mends our hearts and LOVE will spread.

First ATTEMPT with Easter Photos

2009-04-04T13:04:00.004+02:00

While in Shamrock we tried to take Easter photo's but they did not turn out so well...Hopefully sometime while it is still nice in Germany we can get some better ones...

More of Texas....meet my Family

2009-04-04T10:33:00.022+02:00

This is a big portion of everyone we got to see while in Shamrock but I do have thousands more pics that I won't bore you with!! Below in NO particular order, MY FAMILY..

My Poppy and Granny aka MOM and DAD....they are the parents God gave me and I thank HIM greatly for them....

My Aunt Jeannie and Uncle Steve

My cousin Misty

My cousin Misty's son Strace playing trumpet

My cousin Chris and his wife Laura

My cousin Brandon, see I am not the only strange one in the family :)

My cousins daughter, Macey Brooke

My Uncle Bob, his son Adam, grandson Jaden, grandson Keaton, daughter-in-law Brandi, and Aunt Teresa

My cousin Jeremy, his son Ben, wife Sandy, and step daughter Emily

My Dad John, his wife Evelyn, and grandson Elijah

My sister-in-law Misty and nephew Cooper

The cousins: Garrett, Cooper, Victoria, Hayden, Paige, and Kempton

My mother and father-in-law Robert and Juanita

My brother Bruce, mom Debbie, brother Billy, niece Bailey, sister-in-law Ashley, and me

My niece Bailey, she is adorable with all her chunkiness

My cousin Stacey and her husband John

Stacey's step son Zeek and son River

My uncle Dana and Aunt Janette

My cousin Tiffany and her daugther Addison

My niece Keira, we had to have a "photo" shoot while she was down :)

My sister Melody and her husband Eric

I have 2 more brothers that I did not get to see this time :( Brandon and Brock....

A Treasured Moment

2009-04-03T11:14:00.006+02:00

I haven't blogged here in a while so I wanted to update....We got back 2 weeks ago from our Texas visit...One of the highlights of the trip was meeting Shane's older sister Shonda and her children Britnee and A.J. Shonda is Shane's fathers child from his first marriage. We have seen her once for about 10 minutes in the last 15 years and prior to that I am not sure how long it had been for Shane. It was an awesome reunion, Shane was exstatic. We are still trying to explain it all to our kids b/c prior to this they only knew of their Aunt Misty, Shane's other sister from his parents. I just pray God's hand upon this new relationship and I pray it only grows.....

Shane with his sister Shonda....This was his most cherished moment of the trip.

Shonda with her two children, A.J and Britnee, and all my monsters

Proud Brother and Uncle

It was a great time and I am so very thankful for the blessing of Shonda, Britnee, and A.J.

A FUNNY...

2009-01-10T16:51:00.002+01:00

Otay, so having facebooks etc. can be interesting to say the least. You get a minute by minute run down on everyones days etc...I know b/c I am GUILTY of checking and changing status atleast twice a day!! Well this morning I got a phone call from one of our deacons at church, and a friend :), Bill Kimbley. He asked if Shane was home and I told him no he is still gone on mission etc. He sounded a little funny and awkward but I just assumed maybe he felt wierd talking to me and not Shane lol...Bill, asked if everything was ok...Asked if I had checked Shane's facebook, which I had deactivated my account, I NOW have it reactivated lol...Wellll what the deal was, on Shane's facebook, IN A COMPLICATED RELATIONSHIP, was blaring for everyone to read...LOL...Otay Shane, YOU GOT ME!! I guess he gets like 10 stars for his b/c it caused a deacon to call lol...I posted a video of him singing karokee on his facebook like 3-5 days ago to GET HIM, well very few even noticed haha....So babe, YOU WIN, I surrender lol...I guess we need to be more careful picking on each other before all of our friends think we are having marital issues. It has definetly "lightened" my mood today and made me smile...Just for the record, I am sure things get complicated w/all relationships, but Shane and I just like to PICK on each other A LOT!! You would think after 15 years we would get tired of picking but it just gets funner w/age!! I think b/c we take ourselves a lot LESS seriously than we use too hahaha...So moral of the blog....BE CAREFUL what you post on facebook but most importantly be THANKFUL for christian friends who immediately reach out to help a fellow brother or sister in Christ who may need some support!!! Don't know if Bill will see this, but THANK YOU TONS Bill, you and Kate have ALWAYS been there for Shane and I!! I know that if Shane really ever did have a problem he could not come to me with he most DEF. would call you Bill, he respects and trusts you tons...Facebook would not be his outlet :)...See folks, this is yet more reason to get involved in and find relationships in your church body!!! People want to be LOVED and there are folks out there that want to LOVE on you :)....

URRRRGGGGHHHH....2nd post of the day b/c I WANT TO!!! : )

2009-01-08T23:16:00.004+01:00

So I just got an email from Shane and his stay has been extended yet AGAIN!! I know I know, it is NOT like he is DEPLOYED, right?! Well I am beginning to think deployment is EASIER lol...The kids only say goodbye once, not every couple weeks....This happened on his last mission too, extended 1 day then 2 then 3....URRRGGGHHH....I hope he makes it back for Kempton's birthday!!! I am REALLY trying to be the "supportive" wife b/c I know he LOVES his job but it is HARD!! I kept telling him he was going to be gone a lot and he kept insisting oh no no, LIAR lol...Otay so that is my last whine for 09 hahaha...just had to get it out of my system!! Only 7 more years until retirement hahaha...No seriously, I am VERY THANKFUL for his job and PROUD he serves...Again, I am SELFISH and IMPATIENT and all those other things...that is why I can work with kids, we have the same attitude about life....IT'S ALL ABOUT ME LLLLLOOOOLLLL...Otay now I'm officially done......Much....luv......I'M OUT!!

Ryan Air Specials

2009-01-08T14:56:00.002+01:00

Just passing along something I found today...Ryanair.com has some flights that you do NOT have to pay the taxes...I am not sure how long the deal is running but I just did a check for Italy and Spain going in Feb. The TOTAL price, with check-in etc for a family of 5 was only 90 euros!!! Now I just have to see if Shane can take a few days off before we go to the states on leave :)...We need to burn that 60 days lol!!! Again, certain flights and dates have the deal so what I did was picked random dates and scrolled through the plus and minus day until I found the TAX FREE!!!

INSPIRED mind wants to know??

2009-01-07T17:37:00.009+01:00

I have contemplated writing this blog for some time now, but I didn't want to embarass anyone or maybe say something I shouldn't. However, it is a new year and I have new priorities lol. One being to tell each person I LOVE and each person I am sooo thankful they are in my life, what they mean to me and how they truly encourage or inspire me. God has blessed me tremendously in my life with friends from all walks of life. Church friends, internet friends, old friends, friends friends friends....Some christians active in church, some christians not so active in church, and some who are not christians at all. Do I care any more for one or the other, NO, I truly LOVE all of them for who they are and I know there is a purpose for each relationship. I hope to randomly write a blog about each person as I feel led....

Today I want to start with a friend who has INSPIRED me over and over again in the last 2 1/2 years. This is a NORMAL everyday woman who by "worldly" standards should have thrown in the towel. She should be depressed, hopeless, beaten down, etc...Every time I think of her, and God calls her to mind daily, I cannot help but SMILE...Whether she realizes it or not God is using her to touch my life, and probably countless others, she inspires me to NEVER GIVE UP, TRUST HIM, KNOW EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON, AND TO JUST SMILE!!! I have to give a little background without writing a novel, which you know is hard for me!!

I met Autumn through a mutual friend in 2004, living a very different life than I do now. Our first time out together was to Sembach club for karokee night. I don't remember a whole lot about that night, as it ended with me puking my guts out in the ladies bathroom. After that I randomly saw her at my friends house. In 2006 I found her again through myspace, and my life was back in line, meaning I was living my life for Christ. Little did I know that her journey in life was about to be altered forever. See Autumn was a stay at home mom with 2 precious little boys; sweet, beautiful Skyler and handsome little man Nathan. While home on 30 days leave Skyler,4 years old, drowned in a very tragic accident. As I read the words of Anthony's message on myspace I could not believe it!! This has to be a mistake....I wanted to reach out to them but it felt awkward at the same time b/c we were really not "friends" However, God places those in our paths to be of service to love and care for them. That is a moment I am thankful for b/c I ended up with a BEAUTIFUL FRIEND. Since that time Autumn never ceases to AMAZE me...

As if one heart break is not enough for one person, in 2008 her husband left her for another woman. Again, I just felt like this had to be another mistake....Why God? Hasn't she been through enough? Can't she just have a break? Beyond all human understanding AUTUMN still stands, more than stands....Autumn has rolled with the punches and still SMILES...See she found the key to life; ACCEPT WHAT YOU CANNOT CHANGE AND HAVE FAITH IT IS OF PURPOSE TRUSTING GOD WITH IT ALL....She began working after being a stay at home most of her marriage, she has her own apartment, and let me tell you she is HOTTTT lol...Autumn has always been a beautiful woman but she is SMOKIN now lol...More than anything her inside is BEAUTIFUL which adds even more to her outer beauty. I think her myspace says it all...im a lover, not a fighter. i love to do things spur of the moment and it sometimes surprises people. im sweet and almost too optimistic. im a little emotional but try not to show it. i always try and see the good in people. i hate confrontation. i LOVE music, the louder the better! i WILL learn to ride a motorcycle, i want one so bad :) nice people make me smile. mean people suck. im sassy and sometimes a smart ass but its all in fun. i love sushi. im a little obsessed with fitness. I love the way a good workout can make me feel...puts me in a good mood. i love a clean house. i miss Skyler every moment i am breathing. i believe everything happens for a reason. i love my life and intend to live each moment to the fullest...thats just me
God never permits any trouble to come upon you unless He has a specific plan by which great blessing will come out of the difficulty -Peter Marshall This is why I LOVE her and this is why she INSPIRES me...She hasn't given up, she is not a bitter angry person, she has not chosen to be a VICTIM but has chosen to be the VICTOR...

Autumn I thank God so much for placing you in my lifes journey...on those days I am having a "bad" day, I think of you. I see your smile and the hope in your eyes and I know at that moment, GOD is in control and He will make a way when there seems to be no way!! You really do need to start writing that BOOK, I'll buy the first copy and PROMOTE you like crazy woman lol!! When I say that I LOVE YOU they are not just words, I TRULY DO...I admire the person you have become even through the heart break, and I know GOD is going to use you for GREAT things, Autumn. I pray this will be the year that God releases all His blessings out upon your life. Thank you for being an inspiration to me!! I know Sky Man is going to be so very proud of the choices you have made in your life and will be waiting for you at heavens gates....Love you my sweet HOTTY mommy friend :).....

Autumn with Skyler at Disney

Autumn and Sky at Octoberfest

Autumn and Nathan, LOVE it!!

Autumn about to Sky dive for the first time, about 3 weeks ago I think, she CRACKS me up!!

Great shot!!

Stronger than ever!! Simply beautiful!!

SNOW Day!!

2009-01-05T22:03:00.014+01:00

Oh the joys of German winters, and of course it has to snow the week Shane is gone. I really love how pretty everything is but I HATE shoveling sidewalks and driveways!! Over here it is mandatory and according to a couple of friends you can get in BIG trouble if youd don't. So, I had a brilliant idea, Hayden is big enough lol....I actually only had to just ask, I had decided if he said NOO, I wouldn't make him. He didn't though he actually got very excited and ran to get all of his snow gear on and out the door he flew!! It took him about 45 min. but he LOVED every second of it!! He came in and crashed out on the floor, fast asleep for 2 hours hahaha...Paige said it is her turn tomorrow, YEEEEESSSSSSS....Thank you God for GREAT and very HELPFUL kiddos today!! Lately, this is a RARE moment so I am savoring it :). Hope everyone else was blessed in some way today!!

Tomorrow will probably be even whiter!!

Paiger girl putting down the salt, don't you love her boots!!

NOO, I did not throw the snow ball and hit him in the head!! He honestly did it to himself, it comes from Shane's side , I SWEAR!! lol

I wonder if I should tell him HOW to sweep?? Naahhh it will take him longer this way, so more free time for me!!

Kempton wanted to help me do dishes today, he is such a good helper!!

Dish pan hands does not scare mommies little man!!

LAST WEEK BEFORE SHANE LEFT

(I know, I know I'm behind!!)

Doing spring cleaning in the winter and Shane discovered his High School jacket!! Kempi thought daddy had lost his mind!!

Bet you can't snap it!!

"See, I told you it would fit" :)....Yes I sang fat man in a little coat, would you expect anything more from me??

i

YOU CAN change the WORLD.....

2009-01-02T17:22:00.000+01:00

Happy Silvester 2009

2009-01-01T14:56:00.000+01:00

Happy 2009!! We rang in the New Year with the Garcia Family; Charlie, Stephanie, Lillie, Alex, and still baking Isaac. Charlie grilled up some brats and steaks that were oh so very YUMMY. We "rocked out" with Rockband and sing star, it was fun but very FUNNY. Shane and I are not very "musical", ok ok NOT musical at all!! The kids played like wild little animals as usual and seemed to enjoy being together with friends. Kempi managed to bite through his lip, jumping on a bed, so he got little sympathy lol...We ended the night with yahtzee and fire works....Fireworks are very intense here and people go CRAZY!! A few of them I thought we could just reach up and touch b/c we were so close. No one pays attention to anyone else they all do their own thing. The sounds are even louder and more crazy than any 4th of July in the states. The history behind the fireworks and all the noise is, they are "scaring" away the evil spirits. Well w/all the noise etc. they can scare away ANYTHING...The noise lasts for HOURS and the sky stays lit up most of the night. At one point it almost felt like we were under attack on all sides lol...Hayden watched for only a few minutes and than he insisted it was lightening and he was going in where it was safe. I told him it was just the fireworks lighting up the sky but he refused to believe me haha...Everyone needs to experience a European Silvester!! Anyhooo.....A big THANK YOU to the Garcia's for having us over and we hope that 2009 will be spent with friends :)....Much luv to all......I'm......OUT!!
Kempi's boo-boo :(

Mrs. Stephanie hooked him up w/a pirate bandaid

SGLI is my friend!!

My future husband, Alex BATMAN Garcia...atleast someone LOVES me :)
Even though he told me he would not get a job to take care of me lol

Kempi missed ALL the fireworks, no naps during the day cause this but he hasn't figured that out yet!!

Sing STARS Paige and Lillie

Nothing like your son singing the Sweet Escape, "And I could be your favorite girl Forever, perfectly together And tell me boy, now wouldn't that be sweet?" LOL

Lillie and Paiger again

Shane trying to rock out with the drums but well....

Mrs. ROCKband STAR Steph, she would have to get us back "in" when we failed lol...

Shane again, "rocking" out lol...

THE BAND....

I can never be very serious

Please remind me to do those chin exercises and to ALWAYS wear makeup in public

VIDEO WOULD NOT UPLOAD SO HAVE TO WAIT FOR THAT ONE......

Me...Me....PICK ME....

2008-12-31T01:46:00.002+01:00

It is that time yet again, KIDS KORNER needs volunteers!!! Beginning Jan. 22, 2009 we need women or men who can serve from 8:30-11:30a.m. with ages 6weeks-5th grade. If you serve your child can stay, play, and learn at no cost to you!! If you volunteer early you can PICK which age group you would prefer to work with. The home school group is one of the larger groups and we need someone who is SUPER motivated and has a REAL love for the children!! You will have very big shoes to fill b/c Amy Smith did a wonderful job with all 16 children last semester!! Please pray and seek God and if you can help out this ministry contact me ASAP!! May you be blessed!!!

Victoria's Project

2008-12-29T22:59:00.000+01:00

Such a proud Auntie I am...This is the update from my sister-in-law about Victioria's Christmas goal....YOU GO GIRL!! How encouraging is this for us ADULTS?! See God uses EVERYONE, even 8 year olds, to bless those around them....I am so excited that I get to see how God is going to use Victoria through the years, YOU ARE A BLESSING sweet girl!! I will get started on those blankets :)....

I wanted to let you all know how Victoria's project went and thank everyone who helped her reach her goal. We went last night and spent 2 hours assembling Christmas packages for the homeless and underprivileged. Victoria contributed (with the help of many, many people) around 300 pairs of socks and about the same number of gloves. We were also able to take some of the monitary donations and purchase personal hygene items. Her goal was to give each person at least 3 pairs of socks and a couple of pairs of gloves in their package. She was able to do that and have some left over for others who may need them later. Expect another e-mail in 2009...she is already planning on collecting blankets for next year's packages! We are going back tomorrow morning to distribute the packages. She is also taking some of her toys to give away. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas!!! ~Misty

Random Christmas Pics

2008-12-25T20:07:00.000+01:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS kids LOL!!

Kempi's real gift, he loves it but he scares me...more stitches in his near future I am afraid

Hayden's gift is AWESOME...A scooter that is like a skateboard...it is made for ramps etc...Again, more ER visits coming I can feel it!!

I could not wait for her to get this and weeeellll....it was pink....and she wanted blue :( I guess I should have known, I'm not a pink person either...Really nice camera though that may have to find a new home lol...

Our xmas tree

Lydia, Charlie, C.J., and Beth

Bill, David, Kempton, Christi, Aubrey, and Lorelei chillaxin

Melissa looks like she is up to no good :)

Listening to Shane read the story and hoping to answer a question to open a gift

I didn't get as many pics as I normally do b/c I was enjoying listening and talking too much :)...We had a total of 28 people in the house for Christmas Eve, it almost made me feel like I was at home....I miss our big family xmas so it was really nice having friends over. I hope everyone else had a wonderful xmas like we did!!

It's beginning to look a lot like.......

2008-12-24T09:14:00.001+01:00

CHRISTmas....WOW....I cannot believe we have already reached Dec. and in one week it will be a new year!! Amazing how time flies when you get OLD lol. Our Christmas traditions have ALL been thrown out the window this year and we have made it a point to be as untraditional as possible haha. It has been soooo much more enjoyable this year b/c we have focused on just LOVING and CARING for each other and not on what to BUY for each other. The kids each got 2 gifts, one they asked for, and the other a pair of p.j.'s w/slippers. I want my children to appreciate the true reason we celebrate, Jesus birth, and not be waiting for the gifts. I want them to have the spirit of giving and sharing with those around them. I want them to always stop and look around and see others who are in need, not just at Christmas.

I count my blessings everyday b/c we truly have been blessed beyond measure. So many things I take for granted if I forget to pause and say THANK YOU Father!! I pray this Christmas we each focus on HIM and have His spirit of loving, sharing, and caring for those around us. I have been thinking of my little niece a lot this holiday season and it has made my heart smile. Victoria is 3 months older than Hayden, making her 8. She goes and helps her mother at one of their local homeless shelters on the holidays. This year she told her mom she wanted to collect socks and gloves for the people at the shelter. I have not heard the count yet but I am just so very PROUD of her. Children are always a light, so be careful and remember to always let them SHINE....and a child shall lead them :)....

I encourage us all to use what God has given each of us, it may be; money, hospitality, listening, witnessing, teaching, time, etc...Not all of us are blessed financially but we ALL have the ability to give of our selves in some form. Also, remember to do this ALL year not just on Christmas :).

I pray you each have a very, very, very, MERRY and BLESSED CHRISTmas!!!

Jesus Our Hope

"We have lasting hope through the salvation we have in Christ ... Hope means that even when it looks like it's all over, it's not all over yet. That's why the Bible says we can rejoice even in our tribulations. God is working in our hard times to produce proven character and hope in us." -Dr. Tony Evans, Totally Saved

Psalm 33-22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you."

(NIV)

Jesus Our Hope For millions of people, the Christmas season means nothing more than parties, gifts, decorations, and time off work. For Christians, however, this time of year is a happy reminder of the hope we have because of Jesus Christ.
Before Jesus came, God seemed distant, hidden in the Holy of Holies in the temple, accessible only to the high priest. Worshippers wondered whether their sacrifices were acceptable. They doubted their salvation.
Christ means hope—to the person out of work, to the struggling single mother, to the dying believer. Even if you're just slogging your way through the disappointments of life, if you have Jesus, you have hope. And he is not a false hope, a childish fairy tale that we wish will have a happy ending. When Christ rose from the dead, that ended the argument. Period. Our hope in him is solid and it is real.
Christmas is a renewal of that hope. It reconfirms it for us if our vision has grown dim. It was settled long ago, so we don't have to doubt any more. Jesus is the fulfillment of our hope, our deepest longings come true.

Need opinions....

2008-12-18T20:06:00.000+01:00

We are heading to the states mid Feb or March and needing a few opinions...
I have NEVER really been into the jewelry thing, it irritates me after awhile...I have things I wear from time to time but to wear something EVERYDAY just bugs me...So we decided to get wedding band tattoos....I LOVE a good tat...Now it is just deciding on what to get and not regret what will be stuck on me through this life time, like one other tat I have lol....So here are a few options, voice your opinion!!

#1 A TEXAS longhorn the horns being the band wrapped to the back with his initials on the head of it...No I am not that huge of a fan but HE IS!! I could sacrafice my finger, it would probably make me smile each time I looked at it haha...burnt orange is the part I worry about lol...maybe a red, white, blue color instead kind of puts the "military" thing in to it too...

#2 His name, which seems silly b/c his name is already on my leg with an eagle

#3 Maybe each of us getting a word instead of a name like....

for........ever
eternal........bliss
hanky....panky lol j/k seeing if you're reading
draw....close
love.....birds
be......loved
sweet......heart
hold....dear
fairy......tale
ever......after
his.....hers
true.....love
love.....story
un....broken

#4 Some celtic or tribal design, which I have no clue....

#5 A simple circle around the finger

#6 Triangles some how connected into a ring pattern...representing 3 b/c God, Him, and Me...it takes all 3 for it to work :)

#7 Any interesting idea you may have....I have small fingers remember :)

Any hooo looking for some feedback.....any help I would appreciate!!

Pain

2008-12-18T13:53:00.000+01:00

The pain hits me like a brick,

I grasp my chest and the air becomes thick.

How long will it last this time, or will it end?

I have to believe this too shall pass, I will mend.

The twisting and tightening around my heart,

but I will not allow it to rip apart.

I will hold on and pray through,

knowing God is my only help and he feels my ache.

Before I take my next breath I can feel Him,

again He did not forsake my cry.

I fight to deny the pain and try not to wonder why.

The why is what causes my body to defy my air supply.

I have to believe that someday this pain will be no more,

to believe opposite would rock me to the core.

It gets easier each time and doesn't control me anymore.

No longer in fear of sinking to my knees and hitting the floor,

or wondering blindly in a dark haze.

Light still shines; the warm beams guide and I still praise.

The thorn that reminds me, I am nothing without Him.

Learning to embrace the brokenness as a gift,

makes the pain go by very swift.

Maybe just maybe broken is the key for me,

the way He speaks most clearly to cause a shift inside.

Where there are no other options outside of conforming to His will.

Head strong no longer matters, peace comes only from deep within.

Knowing His answer has always gone against my desires, causes a small grin.

Not out of smugness, but of embarassment,

wondering if I will ever get it right.

Knowing His love never alters each time I have a moment, a small lapse in focus; shifted from Him to me.

In that moment it alters truth inside my head and heart,

and I forget to be free.

Not free from pain, but free from the cord that binds me to it,

I have a choice.

I know better than some what staying binded means, so I will rejoice.

I will embrace this pain for what it is, nothing; because it will pass.

It is but my path and accepting it and moving forward is the only right choice.

Not dwelling on the moments that change every second, but focusing on my Father.

Only in Him do I have this freedom....freedom from me....freedom from pain that this life brings.

I haven't attempted anything in a while so i thought I might try again....It helps to air my thoughts sometimes in wierd form i suppose....Pain sometimes is a daily struggle for most of us but how thankful I have a better outlook about it than I did....Any hoo.....I'm....Out!!

It is SHOCKING....

2008-12-16T17:09:00.000+01:00

So in one week I have read 4 BOOKS!!! If you know me, you know I am as SHOCKED as you!!! No, they were not GOLDEN BOOKS lol....I read the whole series of Twilight, they are WONDERFUL!!! Now I guess I finally see why people read, you can leave reality for a while...However, I am still feeling HUNG OVER after all the reading...Almost like a small fog, maybe it is b/c in the last week I have slept a total of maybe 8 hours....I could not STOP myself...I have read books that I have enjoyed but still could never understand why there were book worms in the world, I get it now....However, I still enjoy my own reality too much to get LOST in another fog like this week lol...
My very good friend, and no I won't use your name, LOVES the books but I think it is she LOVES EDWARD lol....I have to still pick at you....What I LOVED about the books is it made me embrace things I had forgotten....No Shane is not a vampire lol but it made me remember why I fell in love with him many moons ago....He is MY Edward, really much more than even the super strong vampire lol...As I was reading the book I remembered things from our past that I had forgotten or really they didn't seem significant in our relationship at the time...Now I remember them and see the GREAT significance of each moment...
God has been helping us get our lives and our relationship on track for a while now...Not that we didn't love each other but the longer you are married it seems you forget the WHY and just go through the NORMAL routines....The wanting to hug and kiss and blah blah seems mundain at times b/c I guess you just get numb, well not such a good word, but you just get COMFORTABLE with each other and don't feel it neccessary maybe....When I started reading the books I was not expecting to GAIN anything from them b/c well it is non-fiction....but again, God laughs, and showed me once again that HE will use whatever he wants to make an impact on my life....So while things were already changing, they are even more different than just a week ago....I have a GREATER appreciation for Shane, even though I have thought for a long while now he was pretty super, now I know how BLESSED I am to have such an AMAZING husband....Is he perfect, am I perfect, NO; but what we have and what we CHOOSE to see and feel for each other, still BLOWS my mind, even 15 years later....We have already spent half of our lives together and now I see why I need to THANK my creator DAILY for Shane....His love is something I will never completly understand b/c well he is human, and in human terms/conditions, he should have never hung around...but thankfully God had His hand and some how allowed Shane to see something in me worth fighting for I suppose....
Any how that is my blog and you can think I am absolutely crazy, which is TRUE...but I guess I LOVE my reality of craziness so much now that I DON'T CARE....I am who I am and so glad I see that LIFE is to be enjoyed and cherished, every MOMENT....

2008-12-11T15:23:00.000+01:00

TWILIGHT read-athon.....Thanks for the 2nd book Steph, I will have it back to you shortly :)...I am HOOKED....and it is all YOUR fault!!!! Edward Cullen, BITE ME, lol.....I had to, couldn't resist....

Hayden and Shane

2008-12-10T07:16:00.000+01:00

I am a little slow getting pics etc. loaded, mainly b/c my camera takes such large photos that I have to adjust the size before posting....I'll start off with Hayden news...
He finally lost his first tooth, actually he lost TWO in the same day!! He was so excited b/c he wanted the tooth fairy to come lol...I cannot believe how long it took for him to lose a tooth, he is 7!!

Shane news....
He is off again this week on another grand adventure :)...He left this morning, hence why I am up at the crack of dawn....I know he loves his new job and I am trying really hard to be the supportive wife but I HATE the job....I know it is a week here a week there but those weeks add up...He was gone for a week, home for a week, and now gone again for a week...He has another one coming up too really quick...I know I sound selfish b/c so many other wives husbands are gone for a year or longer, but I have been there done that!!! I just feel like we got him home from this past deployment and he is gone again....LOTS OF PRAYER...Isn't it funny how life works out, I use to not care if he was gone or not and he stayed...Now I HATE him being gone, we miss him tons, and he will be gone a lot...I know God has a plan though and it is better than mine :).....The kiddos gave him his xmas gift last night, we are being so untraditional this year lol...Since we have been married he has never really bought a nice jacket so the kiddos bought him one...I think he was a proud daddy...He put it on this morning as he was leaving, he even wore the GAY scarf....He is a TEXAS boy and they don't wear scarves!!! He slipped it on this morning though without complaint...I think it looked very nice on him and he is going to need it where he is going!! Anyhooo thats all my rambling, ahhh the exciting life of a stay at home mom, I LOVE IT, REALLY I do!!! I cannot think of a better place to be.....

Aggravated...

2008-12-06T22:04:00.000+01:00

So today I hosted my first baby shower in Germany, it did not go like I had hoped...At the RSVP deadline I had only 2 RSVP's other than myself and the person I was giving it to. How do you explain that nicely to such a sweet person, SORRY no one wants to go to your shower...UGGGHHHH...So I talked to her and told her I would just take her and the other 2 ladies out for lunch or dinner my treat but she said lets do a cook out....Well once that got put into play, between adults and children we had over 20 coming. So I was happier and felt better about the other ladies not coming. Well I woke up this morning and headed to get all the food, several hundred dollars later I come home to almost EVERYONE canceling. It ended up being the Garcia family, Frahm family, and my family and she took home one gift. I felt horrible!!! I pushed her into having a shower b/c I thought it would be a good time for her to get to know people better and really feel like a part of Faith. I am just so sad, I know people are busy this time of year but how I wish atleast one or two could have made it out to show support. I am hosting another shower in January and I actually told her tonight that I was not so sure now lol....I will and I just pray maybe that it is a better time or whatever the cause was....Any how just really bummed....We all still had a good time of fellowship but I am just not use to people not going to things...I mean when I was living with my grandparents our church was small but let me tell you EVERYONE was there to show support for showers and weddings etc....I guess it is just a new generation and everyone gets so busy with life that relationships and things take a back seat....

Tired but Cannot sleep...

2008-12-05T23:34:00.000+01:00

Just a rambling....Last night was the Ladies Renewal Silent Auction and Christmas dinner party. I had a really great time and actually did not get so nervous having to speak about Kids Korner this time. I took notes to read from lol but minutes before stepping up I just prayed a quick prayer for His words...

Kids Korner has really been a challenge for me this semester, and I finally felt the "sacrifice" to serve. I have been so bent on not getting involved with ladies stuff that I had no desire to. A little nudging from a great friend and sister in Christ and I took the plunge. I loved my class so much that I wanted to be there, just absorbing His word, and not pulling my hair out trying to get volunteers. I became so angry and obsessed looking at everyone else that I lost some of my joy. The prayers went unheard b/c I just was so focused on it being about me but when I SHUT UP and finally listened, I have more peace.
The lack of volunteering is not about ME, STOP trying to focus so much on how I feel and what I think people should be doing...God is the only one who can make someone MOVE and He will get them there without ME!! Use the talents He has given me and focus on what I have the power to do, MOVE BRANDI...

I have decided instead of saying I am taking another trip around the mountain, I am going to just say that I am getting a deeper meaning than I got the first time lol....SOUNDS better that way any how hahaha....Not really, I am just truly thankful that even when I am not faithful, HE IS...He amazes me more and more everyday....How GREAT it is to be BROKEN...When I am broken, He can move....I never thought broken was a good place to be but for me that is where I feel Him the most...That is when I know something BIG is about to take place...Maybe not big to anyone else but BIG in my life...I love that song that says, "BROKENNESS IS WHAT I LONG FOR BROKENNESS IS WHAT I NEED...BROKENNESS IS WHAT YOU WANT FROM ME...TAKE MY HEART AND FORM IT, TAKE MY MIND TRANSFORM IT, TAKE MY WILL CONFORM IT ...TO YOURS TO YOURS, OH LORD..."

Little did I know the blessings that God had ready for me...Little did I know what His LOVE really would transform and change my desires to be....I don't deserve all that has been given and I just pray that I STOP taking so many of them for granted...That I use the gifts and STOP whining about them...HE IS SUFFICIENT if I can just get over ME!! I am surrounded by so many Godly women and I know He has placed them there for growing purposes. Stop focusing on the people and realize this is a spiritual battle and not a battle against flesh. Learning to LOVE without the condition is what I pray for. That my LOVE truly reflect what He has given to me...To seek out christian relationships because we all need a good friend when we need encouraging and one we can encourage...Life is the growing ground and to focus on what I am planting...To root out all the deceptions that this world has planted into my mind...Lastly, and probably most important to me, Conform my Will to His...That is probably the doozie one for me b/c letting go of that last bit of "control" seems so hard....but I know it is freeing...To live FREE...Freedom is in the changing of the rein, my hand to His...Everyday this is the battle but I know it will get easier every time I release them....I am so thankful my God is so much bigger than the box I sometimes place Him in...

Just the randomness of me...it is after midnight so I better go sleep while the sleeping is good :)...Much luv......

The Shack

2008-11-28T14:00:00.000+01:00

So I have read this book and I LOVED it!! I then sent a copy to my grandfather who LOVED it and passed it on to my father, aunts, granny, etc...All of whom LOVED it...I spoke to my grandfather about it for weeks before I finally just ordered him a copy. After reading it he said it put in to words things he has felt for a long time but couldn't find the words to describe his thoughts. My grandfather is a retired baptist pastor and while we don't always agree on everything we did agree about this book. Now keep in mind, it is not THE BIBLE, but I LOVE how its true focus is about a REAL RELATIONSHIP with Christ. For me personally and for my father, whom I spoke to last night about it, it broke down barriers that we have had. It caused me to see my relationship with Christ in a new and refreshed light. I don't know if it is b/c of some really deep wounds and my struggle with relationships that I just could not feel worthy of His love for me. My very conditional LOVE has been a HUGE stumbling block and God has really been working on that with me. The JUDGE chapter really OPENED my eyes to how I treat people and God and I DON'T WANT THAT SEAT LOL....Putting God as a big black woman was almost a little too much at first but I got the point, God reveals himself to each of us in different ways daily, if we are looking. Is He in the eyes of your children, a woman of God in your church, someone at a bus stop...Are you looking?? I think people have gathered the wrong idea about the point of the book....That is what I took from that part of the book anyway and hey maybe I am wrong but that is what I got...I have been told that there is some controversy over recommending the book to new christians or non christians b/c it goes against some doctrine...I don't really know what that means but I just know what the book has done for me personally in my life and my fathers....Maybe it is not a book for everyone but if you have a hard time w/a relationship I would recommend reading it. If you struggle with accepting the struggles etc. you are facing or have faced I think it is worth the read...God uses different things for different people, that is TRUTH...Does that change who God is, NO, God is the same not different to each person...but he uses different things to speak to different people...He doesn't just use christians or the bible; He uses whatever he chooses...He has used more nonchristians in my life than christians...God is bigger than the box we place Him in and that is what I get from the book....Sorry for the random rambling....Much luv...I'm....out!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2008-11-27T10:01:00.000+01:00

Happy Turkey Day to everyone!! Today I read a blog and it put my day back into perspective. I was having a SMALL pity party because Shane is away this Thanksgiving and I really miss my family in the states. I have not spent any holiday with my family or Shane's in 4 years, so the holidays are always a little sad b/c I miss all the gatherings. After reading how thankful he is even in the midst of a hard time it made me feel very shallow and silly. I have so much to be thankful for this year that I need to focus on that. God has richly blessed me and my extended family this year, so much so that it would be a LONG novel. So Toby if you read this, THANK YOU for helping me to put my focus back where it needs to be, ON HIM!! I pray each of you have a HAPPY AND BLESSED THANKSGIVING this year and don't forget to COUNT your BLESSINGS!! It really does help to take a few moments and name them ONE BY ONE. Much luv to all...I leave you with this...(long but worth the read)

Transformed by Thanksgiving

by Stacy Wiebe

“If God wants you to have a house, He will give you a house.” My best friend meant to comfort me with these words, but I confess that initially they left me questioning God’s goodness. Having been married 10 years, I had my heart set on purchasing our first home this fall. Our two-bedroom apartment seemed to shrink with the arrival our second child in April. At the same time, our two-year-old’s activity level beckoned for more room to run.

But it was not to be.

A year ago, at the beginning of a high-risk pregnancy, our medical insurance premiums quadrupled. Our financial outlook changed significantly.

“Why wouldn’t God want us to have a house?” I wondered. Meanwhile, I watched three friends move into new homes. I was happy for them. But still, a part of me kept asking, “What about me?” And the me… me… me… echoed in the dark recesses of my heart.

I know that I am not alone in having anticipated that circumstances would look different by the time a particular season of life arrived. You may have thought that surely by now, you’d be married…or you’d have a baby….or you’d be in better health…or you’d have a better job…or you wouldn’t have to work anymore…or…___________ (you can probably fill in the blank.)

Though I continue to pray that God will bless our family with a house, I am thankful that He hasn’t just yet. I’m seeing Him embed in my heart a truth I’ve known since the beginning of my Christian life, but that is now going deeper. The truth? When we choose to see life through the eyes of gratitude, it changes everything. Especially ourselves.

As I’ve learned more about the transforming power of thanksgiving, God has impressed upon me these four principles.

Thanksgiving becomes us

Who are the people who most inspire us? On a surface level, the talented – people whose athletic, artistic and other gifts wow us as a society. On a deeper level we are moved by the triumphant, those among us who demonstrate courage and overcome adversity. But most profoundly, I believe the souls who most inspire us are the thankful. Not only are they gifted, but they are also humble. Not only do they overcome, but they also overflow with gratitude. This is the cancer survivor who sees every moment pulsing with opportunity to love, to serve, to celebrate. It’s the 65-year-old newlywed I know who, when her husband had a stroke, said joyfully, “I am just so blessed to have a husband to take care of!”

When you think about it, the human spirit shines most brightly when it’s cloaked in gratitude.

Thanksgiving produces soul satisfaction

In spite of the annual Thanksgiving holiday and the trend in popular culture towards “gratitude journals” and the like, thankfulness isn’t “fullness” unless it’s directed towards the Giver. In fact, the word thanksgiving in the New Testament’s original language could be literally translated, “good grace.” When we are thankful, we are remembering the One who owes us nothing, but gives us all. Is that not the very nature of grace – receiving what we do not deserve?

While not a denial of pain and suffering, thanksgiving is a deliberate choice to remember how blessed we are. More than optimism, it is a proclamation of our belief in God’s grace, love, provision – and goodness. Put another way, when we are thankful, our “tank” is full. We are looking to God, and He is enough.

Warning: a lack of gratitude is dangerous!

The first woman, Eve, had it all. Imagine… the perfect body. The perfect husband. The perfect home. Even a perfect relationship with God. Still, she bought the devil’s lie that it wasn’t enough. She followed the evil one’s distorted logic: “Is God really good? If He is, then why would He deny me the fruit of this one tree – especially since it looks so inviting?”

The consequences of Eve’s ingratitude for God’s goodness and the ensuing choice she made proved devastating to her and to all of humankind.

Ingratitude is truly a slippery slope. In Romans 1, the Apostle Paul lists a litany of horrendous sins God gave people over to, from sexual immorality, to murder, to worshipping idols. Look back to where the people's downfall began: “For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened” (Romans 1:21, emphasis mine).

Saying thank you to God is not a matter of protocol, of politeness. It goes to the very heart of what we really think about God, and it has a profound impact on who we are.

We are called and empowered to remember

When I was 19, I served for a year as a short-term missionary in Mexico City. One of the most life-changing aspects of my experience was living with Mexican host families. For one summer, my fellow missionary and I were housed by a widow and two of her unmarried daughters. They slept in one room, so my roommate and I could have the other, which was furnished with one single bed (which my roommate and I shared!). Our space, only slightly wider than the bed, was set off from the rest of the house with a sheet tacked up as a curtain. During the summer rains, the house flooded. Black scrawls of gang graffiti marred the front of the house. Clothes were washed by hand in the courtyard, which also housed a toilet and showerhead. Amazingly, "Mama" Rafaela had raised 10 children in that home, and she took me in and loved me like another.

All around the world, I’ve had similar experiences – India, Nicaragua, the former Soviet Union. I’ve seen poverty. I know that the way people live in my American suburb is not “normal” by global standards. And I’ve seen how warm, loving and joyful believers in Christ Jesus who come from less privileged backgrounds can be, regardless of what they possess.

Without a doubt, a house can be a wonderful gift from God. I’ve seen many friends use their homes for His glory. But I’m learning that owning a house is not what will bring fullness to my life. I’m relinquishing my sense of entitlement – my perception that it is something I deserve or must have to be happy. When I give thanks for the countless blessings in my life, I find that eventually I become grateful.

When I do not give thanks, I soon become ungrateful. The next thing I know, I’m complaining. And if I continue to complain, I become like the children of Israel and move away from the Lord and into rebellion. I doubt His very goodness.

God knows how easily we forget to give thanks, especially when the blessings are great. When the Israelites were given the Promised Land and all its abundance, God, through Moses, charged the people “…when you eat and are satisified, be careful that you do not forget the Lord” (Deuteronomy 6:11b-12a).

We need to choose to remember God and His goodness to us, and we also need someone to remind us. That someone is the Holy Spirit. The power that enables us to be “always giving thanks” comes from “being filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18, 20). The Holy Spirit’s role is to bring glory to Jesus through our lives. He’s ready and willing to help you adopt gratitude as a way of life. If you ask Him to empower you, and continually draw from His strength, your life will overflow with thankfulness. Your soul will be satisfied. Your life will inspire others. And God will be glorified.

Why not take a moment and make this prayer your own?

Heavenly Father, I love You. I need You. And yet, time and again I've chosen to turn away from You and Your goodness. I acknowledge that I've forgotten to thank You for who You are and all You have given me. I pause now and thank You for forgiving my sins through Jesus' death on the cross for me. I thank You for the Holy Spirit, who lives inside me and desires to help me follow the best path You have for my life. Fill me up with Your Spirit! Help me to hear and heed Your voice. Help me to draw from Your strength. Remind me, through the Holy Spirit, to choose gratitude today and every day. I'm looking to you, LORD, and You are enough. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

SERVANTS NEEDED!!

2008-11-24T11:59:00.000+01:00

-Brandi Post-

WHO?

Kids Korner Ministry

WHAT?

Needs VOLUNTEERS with a servant heart for teaching and helping to lead our littlest of blessings to learn more about our WONDERFUL Savior.

WHEN?

Thursday Mornings from 8:30-11:30 a.m. beginning in January

WHERE?

Faith Baptist Church preschool wing, ages newborn to home school aged children

WHY?

There are so many reasons WHY, so I will just list a couple.

1. If you have been blessed through a bible study, give BACK to another mother. When we have been blessed it is then our turn to be a blessing.

2. WITHOUT servant hearts to volunteer, Kids Korner cannot function. Meaning, children would have to attend bible study with their mom each week.

3. The importance of our little ones learning and knowing more about Christ is PRICELESS. They are the FUTURE generation of Christians; TRAIN them up NOW not LATER.

4. Bottom line, if none of the other reasons move you, CHRIST NOT ONLY TELLS US, BUT HE SHOWED US HOW TO SERVE. As a Christian we each were bought with a price and we no longer live but Christ lives in us. We need to be growing and acting more like Him EVERYDAY…One of the valuable lessons I learned is you can and will be BLESSED through service to others.

I pray that each of you will search your hearts and pray hard, to see if you can be of service to so many next semester at Kids Korner. There are many VACANT slots to fill, first come first serve!! For more information, please call 06308209652 or email brandishugart@hotmail.com and I will answer any question you may have. Many blessing to each of you!! -Brandi Shugart-

I leave you with the following:

A Miracle in You

The story is well known. A very large group of people, over 5,000, were following Jesus one day. They were listening to His teachings. The day was getting long, mealtime was past. Jesus and His disciples began discussing the question of feeding the crowd. Andrew spoke up saying, "There's a little boy here with a lunch of 5 barley loaves and 2 small fish."

Jesus replied, "Tell everyone to sit down." Then He took the lunch, gave thanks to God and gave it to His disciples to pass out to the people. When everyone had eaten and was full, the disciples gathered up twelve baskets of leftovers! A miracle was performed that day on the hillside because one small boy gave the little he had to Jesus.

How often we too possess a potential miracle. But, unlike the little boy, we do not yield it into the hands of Jesus to bless and use.

Have you ever felt like you have no talents? Or the talents you once used and enjoyed now seem lost somewhere in the busyness of car pools for the children, meals, diapers and dirty laundry?

Just as Jesus took those few loaves and fish and fed a multitude, He can also take our willingness to be used and touch other lives through us.

The little boy could have thought it absolutely pointless to ever offer such a small lunch when there were so many to be fed. He could have eaten the entire lunch himself and never known what a miracle was missed.

Let us be challenged by this small boy to offer to Jesus our talents, no matter how small WE feel they are. Let us not deprive ourselves, or others of seeing Jesus bless and use them.

John 6:8-10 - Then Andrew spoke up, "There is a youngster here with five barley loaves and a couple of fish..." "Tell everyone to sit down," ordered Jesus...Then Jesus took the loaves and gave thanks to God and passed them out to the people....and everyone ate until full. (Living Bible)

by Gail E. Rodgers.

-God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.

2008-11-19T21:44:00.000+01:00

Welcome to our family blogging area!! We will add pictures and entries as we each feel led. Shane, Brandi, Paige, and Hayden will each have the opportunity to share whatever they feel led to. We will try to update atleast once a week but if we skip some here and there I hope you still stick around. Today Brandi leaves you with this...

"Children Learn What They Live"
by Dorothy Law Nolte

If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.
If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness, they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.
If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.