Ride Em Cowboys...

Our Church's VBS theme this year was Avalanche Ranch... As you can see my little Cowboy's had a fun time on the ponies. I have a picture of me in Kindergarten on a Pony... If I find it, I will post it next to the pictures of my boys on the ponies. Sadly, Moose did not get to ride a pony... he weighed about 10 pounds to much. I love VBS week!!!

Time Travel Tuesday...

Today, we are to journey back to a date gone bad... I really have not had to many bad dates, but I do have a story to share about an outing my hubby and I went on when we were in the early years of marriage.

For those of you that know my hubby... you know that he is a FOOTBALL FANATIC. He is passionate about his Football. He always wanted me to become a Football Fan. Although, that dream of his has never happened, I can sit and watch an inning (whoops, that is baseball), a quarter or two of a Football Game :) I even have a favorite team, the Jacksonville Jaguars. How did I choose the Jags as my favorite team? I was at a game, and I just fell in love with the colors of their team... plus, some of the Jag fans had these cute little paw prints painted on their faces... How Cute... The difference between a man and woman, I suppose :)

My hubby had finally talked me into going to a Football game. I knew that it would mean a lot to him if I went to a game. I tried to have a very good attitude about the whole thing :)

We arrived at the Tampa Stadium around noon. The first hint that the day might not go as planned was that we had to bring our umbrella with us. It looked like it could rain any minute. As we go into the entrance, we are informed that we cannot bring our umbrella into the arena. The umbrella was a cheap one, so we let it go, knowing that we would not get it back.

Then, we head to our seats, and I am sure I am complaining (I don't remember all the details) about not having our umbrella. Problem solved... the vendors were selling parkas. I asked my hubby to buy me one, but he was a little on the cheap side, and passed on the parka, all the time he is telling me that it won't rain. I did not share his opinion.

Next, we find out our seats are on like row 52... the highest and last row there is. Once we finally made it up to our row, I turned around and I could see the parking lot of the stadium. I think we were Row 52, because my hubby again was trying to save some money.

It was not soon after we found our seats that the torrential Florida downpour began. It was one of those surreal moments when I was just sitting there getting totally soaked from the rain. I can tell you my hubby was not looking my way. Not only was I getting soaked, the rain was pelting me in the face. It kind of hurt. Boy, the parka would have been nice. I am sure I reminded my hubby of that a few million times.

Well, the rain did its thing, and then suddenly stopped and the sun came out. Boy, did the sun come out.. remember I was on row 52, so I felt it a lot quicker than those on row 1 or 2. In a matter of minutes, the sun began to beat down on us. The good thing was that it dried us off... the bad thing was that we had second degree burns (just joking for effect). No, but the sun was brutal that day, and there was no place to get some shade on Row 52.

I don't remember all that happened that day, I don't remember if I had any fun at all. I am sure I relished some, "I told you so" moments with my hubby. I also remember how quiet my hubby was... I know he felt really bad. My hubby and I like to talk about this date, and we always have a good laugh about it now.

That is the cool thing about time and perspective... my hubby and I have learned to laugh about some of our "bad dates"... Blessings to you.

Hannah Montana...

OK, I am going to admit something that my hubby makes fun of me for... I love the show "Hannah Montana". That fact would not be so bad if I had a preteen daughter, but I do not... I have only 3 young boys, 8, 6, and 4. Anyway... I just think the show is adorable.

I think one of the things I like most about it is that it is a clean family show. Also, I watched an interview on the 700 Club (I think 700 Club) with Billy Ray Cyrus (now he is from my generation...Don't break my heart, my achy breaky heart... He looks so much cuter now without the 80's mullet- Who did look good with a mullet?). I believe all of his family are Christians, and the show was focusing in on how to raise a family with Christian values... We have seen so many sad stories about what happens to kids when they grow up in Hollywood. When I watch the show, I can see the real love that Billy and his daughter have... It so sweet :)

Sadly, today out in TV land there are not a lot of good family shows to watch. At present, I think "Hannah Montana" is one that is safe and fun for the whole family to watch.

OK, so I put myself out there by admitting I love "Hannah Montana"... leave a comment if you have any shows that you may be a bit embarrassed to admit that you like to watch. I would love to hear about them...

Mary or Martha Poll

Hey all... Hopefully, you see my Poll in the Sidebar. I have been asked this question a lot... "Are you a Mary, or a Martha? " There are books about this question, and I am sure this question could be used to start a good Bible Study.

If you responded to my poll, and want to comment further... I would love to hear your answers, and why you think you are like the Sister you chose... Many of us are probably a combo of the two sisters. Even if you do not normally comment, take a minute and do so. I love to get Details :)

A Weak Tummy, Like His Mummy

Our family went to the park a few weeks ago... Daddy spun the boys around on the Merry Go Round thingy.... I am not sure what it is called... it should be called an accident waiting to happen. I think I took a few tumbles myself from this piece of playground equipment when I was little...
Anyway, as the boys were spinning, I started noticing that Terminator didn't look to good... I called to my hubby to stop, and the pictures tell the rest of the story.

Terminator decided that he needed to find a nice place to rest... A place that was completely still. I should have known better. He "threw up" two times on our last plane trip. He gets his weak stomach from me... I can't handle anything to fast or spinney :)

The Diaper Cake

My friend and I created this Diaper cake for another friend that is having a baby. The cool thing is that everything in this cake is a gift that the mom can use for baby.... Especially, the diapers :)
It was so much fun to create this, and it wasn't as hard to make it as I thought it would be...
If you have a baby shower coming up, you may want to consider making a Diaper Cake... it definitely will be an original gift... Blessings...

Hey, if you click on the pictures of the Diaper Cake... you will see that my table is a mess, and that there is some clean laundry on my couch that needs to be put away, Sorry :)

Another Giveaway at 5 Minutes for Mom

Click on the "5 Minutes for Mom" button on my sidebar. Best Buy
is giving away a TV through the "5 Minutes for Mom" site. Click on the "Best Buy" link above to see what the TV looks like... Thanks Best Buy, and 5 Minutes For Mom!!!

And the Winner Is...

Thanks to all the people that entered my Book Giveaway...

The Winner of the first book, The Negotiator is Gena (no blogsite)

The Winner of the second book, Search for Significance is Farley80 (no blogsite)

I will be getting in contact with you via email later, and give you a chance to respond with your addresses. I will send the books out next week. I am recovering from a very busy week (VBS) this weekend.

Blessings, and thanks again.

Thankful Thursday

Well, for today's Thankful Thursday list... just go down one post to read my Meme about Five Reasons I love Jesus. Today, and everyday, I am thankful for Him. Blessings...

PS. Feel free to enter my book giveaway if you have not already... I will announce the winners in the morning.

Why I Love Jesus Meme

I have finally been tagged by my new bloggy/Siesta friend at the ConnorColesmom blog. The Meme is to list five reasons I love Jesus... so here it goes.

1. He Died on the Cross for me. I became a Christian when I was a child, and I really didn't grasp the whole idea about Jesus dying on the Cross for me... As I have become an adult, I realize how important this is... Films like the "Passion" have really given me a small glimpse into the intense suffering that Christ endured to save me, a sinner. Also, now that I have become a mom, I see a tiny, tiny, tiny, bit into how God suffered greatly while his Son was on the cross dying for the world. To offer up your child as a sacrifice for the world... Unbelievable...

2. He is HOPE. This life is full of ups and downs.. Sometimes, it seems like I am on an emotional roller coaster. In my dark days, I am so glad that I have Christ. If He was not my Hope, I think I could go crazy.

3. He doesn't give up on me. I was such a hypocritical (Pharisee) Christian for so long.. so full of pride and many other things that didn't honor God. I am so glad that He kept pursuing me, until I got it, and began to change. I deserved to be left alone to self destruct, but He didn't give up on me. With His help I will never go back to my old ways.

4. He has the power to Change me. Once I turned my life back over to Him, He slowly started to change me from the inside out. I am amazed about how my old desires have changed, and I no longer desire to do those things anymore. My mind is being transformed to think more like Christ everyday. That is a miracle.

5. He is all consuming... I am on to this just a little bit.. this is a process for me. Once I opened my life and heart to Him, I found myself thinking about Him more and more. In the morning, in the afternoon, and in the evening :) Today, I find Jesus coming into almost all of my conversations if I talk more than 5 minutes... I can talk for more than five minutes :) I am falling in love with Jesus for the first time in my life, even though I met Him over 25 years ago.

So now I am to tag five people to do this Meme too. Most of the blogsites that I visit have already been tagged for this meme. I have only a very few personal friends that actually have a blog. So, I will tag my Fwend, my sweet little NEWLYWED/Babysitter friend, and my friend at the "What a Gift" Blog.

So, I don't have five officially, so if you read this post, and have not been tagged for this meme, tag yourself for me, and let me know that you are doing this MEME through a comment. If you would like you can leave your five things in my comment box too.

Blessings to all!!!

Wordless Wednesday

Snake

Time Travel Tuesday...

Today's Time Travel post is about the day you met your spouse... Well, I don't actually remember what day it was. I think it may have been around Easter time. I was around 20. My husband could give you our exact correct ages... Since kids, my memory is so mushy... Even though, I don't remember the specific dates and ages.. I do however, remember the day I met my Hubby very, very well.

We both worked for a Hotel chain. Back then, our Hotel had a computer system set up (before email, and the Internet exploded) where you would get admin messages from other Hotels. The messages would come in slowly through an old fashioned printer that made lots of noise. The system was set up to connect to other hotels within the Hotel chain. For example, if a guest was at a hotel in Florida, and then they wanted information about another hotel in a different state, you could send an admin message through this system (JUST THINK EMAIL). A lot of information from the Main Corporate Offices would come through this computer system too, but bored employees soon realized that this little system could become connection central. Today, we would call it a "Chat Room".

I was working one night, and was bored myself. Probably hoping someone would write and talk to me. So, later on a message came across the system that asked, "Are there any Hot Florida Babes out there?" Oh, yeah I wanted to respond alright... How arrogant? I was going to set this guy right. So, I responded back (being the Hot Florida Babe I was :) with something like, WHO IS THIS??? I could go on and on, but that is how I met my husband. We were states apart, but one day God would draw us together to become husband and wife.

We were friends for about 3 years, before he moved to Florida to pursue a serious relationship... A year after he moved to Florida we were married. I know a lot of the details were left out, but maybe I can fill you in through the blog from time to time.

I am posting a picture of the guy who thought it was OK to ask if there were any Hot Florida Babes out there... This is what he looked like around the age that I met him. Check out the pink 80's socks :), and his car that he was in love with... (The picture is at the top, I couldn't get it in the right place- Make sure to click on it, so you can see a larger picture)

Dog Days of Summer Bloggy Giveaway

Today is the day the DDoSBG's (see above) start in the blogosphere. Make sure to click on the button in my sidebar to get directed to the site that will be hosting all the giveaways.

I came across a Giveaway named, "Pay It Forward" on a few blogsites. The idea was to give away a book (new or gently used), and then the person that won would give away the same book once he/she was done reading it. I decided to do that, but then I came across this Giveaway.

So today, and up until Thursday 11:59 PM, all you have to do is leave a comment that you would like to be signed up for my Giveaway. I will choose a winner this Friday, and announce it on my site, and the "Rocks in My Dryer" Blog too (the site hosting the DDoSBG). I will pay to ship the prize out to you. Sadly, for this giveaway I will only be shipping within the United States (to save a little on shipping) Maybe in the future I will ship internationally :)

I will be giving away 2 books (I love BOOKS). The first book is a new book, "The Negotiator" by Dee Henderson. A sneak peek.... Failure is not an option... FBI special agent Dave Richman has spent his life protecting people; failure is not in his vocabulary. He'll figure out a way to protect Kate even if she is determined to make it difficult.

The second book is Robert S. McGee's very popular (over 2 million in print-endorsed by Billy Graham) "The Search for Significance- Seeing Your TRUE WORTH through God's EYES". A workbook is included inside the book. This book is basically brand new as well. I bought this book to do a study on it with my Women's Ministry Group. I think I read the first 10 or so pages, before realizing that I had overcommitted myself. I have heard nothing, but good things about this book. But, I am still very busy, and want to bless someone else with this book.

So because I have 2 books, I will choose two winners. The first winner will get the Dee Henderson book, and the second winner will get the McGee book.

Blessings to you all, and I think I will do this Giveaway thing often.

My First Giveaway

Hey All, Since I have been blogging, I have entered several contests.. I have not won anything yet, but it is so fun to enter a contest. Click on button on my sidebar for more details... I will be posting what I will be giving away on Monday, July 23rd. Many sites will be giving things away starting that day, and during that week. Stay Tuned :)

Thankful Thursday

For the past couple of weeks I have been struggling spiritually... I have been reverting back to a lot of old bad habits... to much TV, to much computer, eating when not hungry, and sleeping when I should be up. You see all of these things have something is common... they are my escapes... a chance for me to "turn my brain off" (boy, is that hard to do). The things I mentioned above are not really bad things (well, maybe eating when you are not hungry is a bad thing :), but I have been using them all to escape and not deal with my situations. I always get this way in the summer, when all of my kids are home, and I feel like I don't know how to fill their days with profitable things. Plus, as you know I have 3 boys, so they are a bit rambunctious :)

So, I should get to what I am thankful for... This week I am thankful for a friend's advice that reminded me to "sow to the Spirit". She said that if I watch TV for 30 minutes, then make sure to "sow to the Spirit" for 30 minutes, at least. So, for the last two days, I have prayed and read my Bible. There are other things I can do to "sow to the Spirit". I can listen to worship music, serve others, do one of my Bible studies... there are a lot of things I can do. I told my friend yesterday, that there has not been any big changes, but I know if I constantly set my heart towards doing the things that will draw me closer to Christ... I will CHANGE.. I will become more like Jesus, and I won't struggle so much with running to the things I mentioned above for my escape. I will turn to Christ first, and He will set my mind at peace when my circumstances are to much for me to handle on my own.

So, thanks goes to my friend who always encourages me with God's Words. Blessings :)

Contest, Win $300 of Dairy Products from Horizon Organic

Hey all, the "5 Minutes for Mom" website is having a contest. Click on the button on my sidebar to get to the contest so you can enter. Horizon Organic is the company that is giving away the Gift Certificates. I trying to go more Organic lately :)

Wordless Wednesday

Seek Ye First /May Day Challenge/ Honor Your Husband...

Matthew 6:33 states... But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

This post was inspired after talking to my awesome friend... The funny thing is that she was not trying to show me something, or teach me something... she was just speaking the truth, and most importantly God's Word. She quoted the verse above to me. I often am enlightened after talking with her. She follows hard after God, with such an intense passion that you can't help wanting to pursue God fully too... OK, I should stop here because I will go on about my friend, and not what she helped me to see.

I know that I have quoted Matthew 6:33 many, many times. To myself, and to many other people. Yet, sadly I don't do what the verse says to do... There are those moments that I will seek God first, but very soon after the seeking, I turn to my own ways and ending up taking control of the situation instead of giving God the control.

If you have read any of my posts, you will see that I am participating in a couple of Blog challenges. A weight loss one, and one that helps me to become a better wife. (This is where my friend really enlightened me). These challenges in themselves are wonderful. I love them, especially because they encourage me to do the things I really want to do. But for me, I now see that I am shall we say, "putting the cart before the horse".

Some background about me... I am such a checklist kind of person. I am especially referring to the spiritual aspect of my life. In my young Christian days, I became so obsessed with the checklists of the things that I needed to do (read Bible, go to Church, pray, tithe, etc) that I became legalistic, and had no real relationship with Christ. Let me say, it is good to do all of these things... we have to do our Spiritual disciplines. These disciplines are what help us to grow closer to Christ, and become more like Him. But when you approach these disciplines like I did, you don't grow closer to Christ, you just become full of pride. I was so prideful in my younger days, because outwardly I was doing all the things that good Christians do. If there was a book, on "How to Find Freedom in Christ in 3 Days", I would run out and buy the book right away. (Sadly, that would still be a temptation today :) . I wanted to do anything that I could to grow closer to Christ...except the one thing that would actually help me grow closer to Christ, and that is Matthew 6:33 (Seek Him First).

This week, I realized something about the "Food Addiction" thing. It really doesn't matter if I lose the 30 pounds I want to. In the end, I know one of two things would happen.... I would lose the weight, and then eventually gain it all back. Or, I would be at my goal weight, and I would become so obsessed with gaining the weight back, that I would become a slave to the scale. My happiness would depend on what number stared me in the face in the morning when I hopped on the scale. Yes, I so want to lose weight, but I need to let God do a miraculous work in my heart, so that I no longer will be controlled by this addiction. That is going to take a lot of work, and as my friend reminded me... it won't be me that does the work of changing me, it will be God, and He will get all the Glory in the end. I just need to surrender control... Hard to do, but I know it will be worth it in the end :)

The challenge I am doing about honoring my husband is great, and I will continue to try to do the things I wrote about in my post. Again, my friend asked me about what will happen when the 30 days are up. Knowing me, I would probably just go back to my old ways. Again, Matthew 6:33 comes to mind... SEEK ME FIRST... If I truly seek Him, He will show me how to be the best wife I can be, and again it will be Him working through Me, and not me trying to do my best.

I want to again say, I think these challenges are wonderful, but I see that for my "Checklist" mentality they are going to possibly work against me. I am so happy for all the women that are getting encouragement, and the support they need through these challenges. I hope one day, I can do these challenges again, but with a Renewed by Christ mindset...

I want to especially say thanks to the "Tales From The Scale May Day Challenge". I didn't lose a single pound, but I believe God used my NON WEIGHT LOSS to teach me an important lesson. Thanks to all the ladies that left me encouragement every week, even when I didn't have any weight loss to report.. You all are awesome! Continued Blessings on your Journeys :)

I will also continue to visit the "Fruit in Season" blog on a regular basis. I especially will be checking back on Marriage Mondays. I know this blog is an encouragement to a lot of women.

So if you didn't figure it out by my post, I am taking myself out of the May Day challenge, and the Honor Your Husband 30 Day Challenge... Although, I will still be doing many of the same things. I am not going to stop trying to lose weight, and start dishonoring my hubby :) Hopefully, what I will be doing is Seeking God First, and letting Him direct my steps in these two areas (and beyond these areas in my life).

I hope soon to be able to post about victories in the above mentioned struggles, but with the knowledge that it wasn't me at all, but Christ's power working through me that won the Victories!!!! As my Fwend said, it is not our strength or power, but only HIS!!!!

Walking a Tiny Step in "Their" Shoes

Before I get to the story behind the title, I must give a little background (Being a woman, you should have known that I have to give the details :)

I am always worried about how my parenting affects my children... I am a Christian, and in addition to all the normal parenting things that every parent has to do... I have the responsibility and great privilege to introduce my kids to Jesus... I so want them to have a relationship with Jesus that surpasses mine. I want my boys to have a passionate love for Jesus, and for them to seek Him with all their hearts :)

You see, I didn't really come to understand about my relationship with Jesus until my late 20's. By then, I had already started having children. In essence, I have been learning to love Jesus with all my heart while trying to raise my children. Sadly, they got to experience a lot of ME while operating in my flesh. I know that I will never be a perfect parent, but I also know that my personal struggles do effect my kids. On the flip side, I have had some awesome parenting moments with Jesus leading me :) All of this to say, that I am always looking for opportunities for my kids to EXPERIENCE JESUS, and His great love for them (and the World).

This leads me to the story behind my title. The pastor from our Church recently returned from Africa. Because of his experience in Africa, he and the staff of the Church have launched a campaign to help a destitute village in Africa (with a special focus on the children of that village). My pastor issued a "Rice Challenge" a few weeks ago at Church. The Church staff gave each family a bag a white rice when they left Church that day. The pastor asked that each family would agree to eating that bag of Rice, and only water for one dinner meal during the upcoming week. He explained that for most people (the fortunate ones) that bag of rice and water was their only meal everyday. Some families in Africa might not even have access to clean water, and that bag of rice that would feed my family of five, might have to feed a family of 15.

My husband and I agreed that we would set a day during that week to do the challenge. Although, our kids are a bit on the young side, we knew this would be a wonderful opportunity to teach them about the love and Jesus, and the reality of the other side of the world. Moose, my oldest, was so excited about eating the bag of rice (if you have read my other posts about Moose.. you will know why this is so special). He loves to eat, and so it didn't matter to him that we were only going to have rice, as long as he had a lot of rice :)

We sat down to eat the meal of rice and water. The Church had given us a handout with statistics about America and Africa, but they were a little to much to understand for our kids. My hubby and I, explained to the kids that this Rice/Water meal was the primary meal (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) for many little kids and families in Africa (and other areas). We also explained that some families don't even get to eat at all.

Our kids responded so positively, that I almost wanted to cry. I knew that this meal was a spiritual marker for each of them. We took time to pray at the table. Each child said a little prayer for the families in Africa. Mostly, about God helping them get more food. Snake surprised us when he asked to go pray for the kids in his room. Now, we normally don't let the kids leave the dinner table, but we made an exception this time. Terminator, our youngest, followed right behind him to pray. They finished praying and came back to the table. We finished up, and as a family we said that we want to remember to pray for the families in Africa more often. The whole experience was wonderful, and I think it lasted a little over 10 minutes (dinner goes fast when the kids are little :)

I challenge any family to do a challenge like the one above, you won't be disappointed.

PS. After that meal we decided that we as a family (especially me) would have no after dinner snack food. Boy, were our tummies grumbling, but it was such a Great grumbling :)

30 Day Honor Your Husband Challenge

Well, the first week of the challenge went pretty well for me. I had 2 goals... The first one was that I would greet my husband when he got home from work (with a nice welcome-a kiss or hug included). That has always been something that is very important to him. I did very well with that goal. Midweek, my hubby commented that he realized I had been trying to greet him, and he so appreciated it. I felt really good about that :) Later, I asked him if he read my blog (he does from time to time), and he said no... so that is good, he didn't know that "greeting him warmly" was one of my goals for the week.

My second goal was to compliment him more (genuine compliments). I did compliment him this week, but this goal is definitely a bit harder to do. I realized that I have to be aware of trying to do this... it does not come naturally (at present)... so I have to make plans to compliment him.

So, my goals for this week will be the same as last week. The two things mentioned above are not a habit yet (I hope they do become a habit). I will try to give more attention to compliment thing.

Blessings to you all...

Thankful Thursday

Today on Thankful Thursday, I am especially thankful for Hand-Me-Downs... I know simple, but HMD's are really a gift.

My two younger boys were in need of some shorts and shirts (mostly play clothes)... There were a couple of bags of clothes in their closet (From my oldest, Moose). Moose has always grown so fast, I think he skipped some sizes altogether :), but my two youngest just inch along. So, I thought the clothes in the closet would be way to big, but to make a long story short, most of the clothes fit fine. I filled up four dresser drawers full, and about half a closet. BLESSING!!!

Also, I am thankful for the HMD's that were given to me. I lost weight about two years ago, and I did what "THEY" say to do, and got rid of all of my bigger clothes. Well, sadly if you have been reading my blog posts, you know that I have gained back the weight. I had to buy a couple of pair of jeans, but I just refused to buy all new clothes again at my new weight, when I knew that I was going to lose the weight (EVENTUALLY).

While I was on vacation, one of my friends gave me several pairs of Capri pants(which is so nice, because now it is summer... the jeans don't work so well in summer). These pants were in great condition too. Another one of my friends gave me some shirts and a few more pair of Capris. Those HMD's were just what I needed. I have even received compliments from my friends at home, saying how cute the clothes looked on me.

So, today I am so thankful for the generosity of my Friends... they met a need and they did not even know it. Plus, I am not sweating to death in the heat of summer in my Jeans :)

Blessings :)

May Day Challenge

Well, this past week I lost 2.4 pounds. That is good, but I feel like this week was not really a successful week as a whole. If you have read any of my posts before, you know that when I talk about my weight problem, I refer to it as an addiction and a spiritual battle. For many people this challenge may not be about addiction or spiritual battles, but for me it is a spiritual issue.

Please read my May Day post from last week to catch you up... It will help you understand this post better. I was very determined this past week to really surrender this battle to the Lord, but as I expected I felt that I would be up for a spiritual attack. I feel like that is what happened. This past week when my life circumstances got out of control, I definitely turned to food to help me cope with the stress.

But, as I told my husband, I feel like I may have lost some battles this week, but I am going to win the War (Only through God) . My goal for the upcoming week.... I really am going to do my best to pray to God when my life circumstances start getting a bit to much for me to handle.

Blessings to all of you... I am still in the race :)

30 Day Challenge

Well, today begins the 30 Day Honor Your Husband Challenge (at least my 30 days begin today).

I will be focusing in on two things this week...

1.To greet my husband with a personal welcome when he gets home from work (this is huge to him).
2. Compliment him more. I want to try to compliment him in every area...(work, as a husband, father,& spiritual leader).

If you want to start your 30 Days today, just leave a comment on my blog (I can get you the button code if you want it)... then go to your blog and leave a post about what you will do this week to honor your husband.

You can also visit this website, I believe this is where the challenge originated. This site has wonderful information about becoming a godly wife and more...

Blessings...

Confessions of a (Former) Gossip Queen

Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
I also like the verse translated from the New Living Translation... It states, "The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences."

Woe, that is a powerful verse, and I have found it to be true in my own life. I am one of those people who love to talk. My title states that I am a Former Gossip Queen... That is not a title I would have wanted for myself. I would not have been proud of myself if someone called me a Gossip Queen. But none-the-less, that is what I used to be.

This post will probably apply more to women than men. I know that there are probably a few men out there that like to gossip, but I don't believe men struggle with Gossip as much as women do. I figure that is because women are so relational, and we love to talk :)

The Lord really started dealing with me about my Gossip problem about 7 years ago. During that time, He opened my eyes to see how destructive this SIN could be... I am not sure why I liked to Gossip... I am sure having the "talker" personality did not help my situation. Proverbs 10:19 states, "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise." Let's just say, I was not very wise :)

I have also come to realize that I always wanted to be the one to have something to share... Sharing Gossip brought me the attention I desired from others. Although, when I engaged in gossip, I didn't really realize the ramifications it could have on others. But most importantly, I didn't realize that it had ramifications on me. Remember, the verse from Proverbs, "...those who love to talk will reap the consequences." Oh, yeah, I was reaping the consequences alright, I was distancing myself further and further from the Lord with every thoughtless word I uttered..

Then the Lord began to shine His light on my sin of Gossip. At first, it would be a twinge in my stomach... I would think...maybe I am not suppose to share this... Sadly, at the beginning, I made a lot of bad judgment calls. I would share, and then later feel horrible. The Lord kept working, and I was able to hold my tongue more often (which is so hard being the TALKER I am).

The Lord kept working on me, and then I would get that twinge when others were gossiping. This situation is a bit more complicated to maneuver. I think my best tactic at first was to change the subject, or say something very positive about the person being talked about.

One of the more crazy things that happened was when I would feel that old twinge when the "Gossipy" thoughts were in my head. I didn't even have to speak them, but I did have to take them to God, and ask his forgiveness for my thoughts.

I don't know all the reasons why I fell, or jumped into the sin of Gossip, but I have realized a few reasons why I gossiped. One, I gossiped to get back at those who hurt me in someway. If someone hurt me, I would often find myself saying something, not so positive about them to others. I guess that was my way at getting them back. But, in the end, I never felt good about what I said. I also used gossip to feel better about myself or my situations. Sadly, many of us fall into the trap of comparing ourselves with others to make ourselves feel or look better than the people we are talking about. THAT NEVER TRULY HELPS!!!

I truly feel that I can now call myself a FORMER GOSSIP QUEEN, not because I never gossip. But because now I feel like I slip into gossip... It is not something I am trying to do, it may be something that happens before I realize it. Now, when I do gossip, I ask forgiveness much quicker. I have even called people to tell them what I have said about them. This is not fun whatsoever, but it holds me accountable.

I was inspired to write this post after listening to a conference session from Sheri Rose Shepherd. She has created a conference, called "GIRL TALK" (I think that is the title). Sheri gives Five guidelines for Gossiping. I share them with you all, hoping they will be helpful to you as well.

Ask yourself these questions before you speak...
1. Why am I sharing this information?
2. How will it affect the person listening to what I am saying?
3. Will it change their perception of the person I am talking about?
4. Am I willing to let my name be used as a reference when it is repeated?
5. How would the person feel if they were in the room as I am sharing?

If your answers have any hint of a negative in them, then I think you are on the verge of gossip.

Sheri also stated that there is a lie out there about gossip... We think as long as what we are sharing is true, it is not gossip. Sometimes the truth about someone can be more devastating than a lie. I also heard someone once say that Christians disguise gossip as "Prayer Requests". I have found this to be true in my life and from others. I think Sheri's questions that we should ask ourselves are wonderful guidelines to help us avoid Gossip altogether.

Best of all, we have the Lord Jesus Christ that will always steer us in the direction of Pure Talk... Let our words be words of life and not death. We will reap the consequences of our words , let the consequences be blessings, instead of curses.

Blessings to you all from a sinner saved by God's grace and mercy...

1000 Gifts

On my sidebar, you may have noticed another button. The "1000 Gifts". I came across this button while visiting another blog. I believe this "1000 Gifts" originated with the CWO (Christian Women Online) last year. Most of the people that were taking part in the "1000 Gifts" are almost done, or are done with their lists.

Simply put, you are to come up with a list of 1000 things that you are thankful or grateful for... Or, list the many blessings that God brings into your life... From the simple gifts, to the most precious ones you have been given. Later, I will copy a post about the challenge for you to read on my site.. it was beautiful and may inspire you to start your own list. If you are interested in doing your own "1000 list", let me know through a comment, and I will send you the button for your website.

So, I will begin my list today, and continue until I reach 1000.

(I will start with the most obvious and precious gifts I can think of)

1. My Salvation through the blood of Christ
2. My Husband- he is exactly what I needed... Because of him, I have become a better Christian, wife, and mother
3. Moose- My Oldest (Boy, have I learned so many things through having him)
4. Snake- My Middle (He is a reflection of me in so many ways... sometimes he helps me see how Christ sees me)
5. Terminator- My Baby (I love to see his zest for life... he is fearless, and I am so full of fear.. I can learn a lot from my "baby")
6. My Mother (An example of sacrificial living... it blows me away)
7. My Father (Daddy... Oh, how I love that sweet man... His example of a loving Father cannot be matched.. at least in my eyes :)
8. My Sister (Oldest, she is not my biological sister, but we are like TWINS in every way... I learned that people can really love Jesus (FOR REAL), because she is totally in love with Him
9. My Brother (He was the only male sibling, with 3 sisters... But he survived :), and I love him so, and am proud of how he is turning out)
10. My Sister (Youngest... we are a lot alike in many ways... she is the baby in the family, and she will always be my little sister to me :)

OK, I am stopping here.. I think ten things on one post is a good ratio... To Know Him

30 Day Challenge

Hey Readers!!!

Check out the button on my sidebar (30 Day Challenge)... It is all about how we as women can challenge ourselves to show love, honor and respect to our husbands. The original challenge is almost up, but you can really start the challenge anytime. Click on the button to get a better idea of what this challenge is all about...

I am going to start my 30 Days on Monday (that doesn't mean I am going to be a bad wife until then :), but I will be making more of a conscious effort to try some specific things that will show love and respect to my hubby.

If you would like to join me on Monday, please leave a comment (I don't know how to do the Mr Linky thing yet)... Then every Monday you can come back and let me know how you are doing with your own challenge... It will be fun, and maybe we can help to inspire each other along the way :)

Who Am I Most Like?

You scored as Elizabeth Bennet, You are independent, passionate and unconventional, with a sharp tongue and a quick mind. But you have a quick temper and sometimes forget who you're talking to... Elizabeth Bennet 70% Jane Bennett 65% Mr Bingley 60% Charlotte Lucas 55% Mr. Darcy 55% Mrs Bennett 55% Kitty Bennett 50% Lydia Bennett 50% Mary Bennett 40% Mr. Collins 35% Lady Catherine de Bourgh 35% Mr. Wickham 25% Mr Bennett 15% Which Pride and Prejudice character are you most like? (PICCIES) created with QuizFarm.com

OK




OK, I Love the book/movie "Pride and Prejudice". Elizabeth Bennet is my favorite character in the book, but the description of her/me is not to flattering... Better Lizzy, than Mr. Darcy or Mr Bingley, I suppose :)

Thankful Thursday

OK, Thursday seems to be a popular day in the blogosphere... But, when I came across the "Thankful Thursday" Meme I didn't want to pass it by...

Yesterday (4th of July), I was listening to Midday Connection (Moody radio). The guest on the show was a man (didn't catch his name), but he wrote a book titled, Grace Under Fire (I am pretty sure that was the title). The book was full of letters written over a span of about 70 years. The letters were from men and women that were serving in all forms of the military. The letters were written from men and women who were in many of the major "Wars" of the past 70 years. My heart tendered as I listened to these brave men and women share their hearts with complete abandon. So many questions..some that will not have an answer this side of Heaven.

I had to go in the store, and as I got back in the Van, I caught the tail end of this story. There were 4 Chaplains on a ship, and somehow the ship was hit and it was going to sink. There were not enough life preservers to go around, and the 4 Chaplains gave up their life preservers to save 4 other men/women on the ship. The last image of the Chaplains were of them locked arm in arm as they were getting ready to sink. My heart sighed... This book was full of examples of men and women that risked their lives to save others.

The author of the book said that most men and women when they come home from serving their country, have such a hard time adjusting. While they are away serving their country they face life and death situations everyday... They come home and see the major news headlines are about celebrities and who they are dating, or what they are wearing. That made me sad, and I felt guilty too... I too have cared more about what movie star is going to marry Brad Pitt, than to take the time to stop and remember that there are people fighting for my freedom. It just made me stop and think about "Perspective"... So, today, although long-winded (or long-posted) I am thankful for all the men and women that serve our country, past and present, that have bravely risked or given their lives that I may be free. THANK YOU!!!

Thursday Thirteen

13 Great Christian/Faith-Based/Good Moral Movies (that should cover it :)

1.Passion of the Christ (Everyone has probably seen this one, but it is a must see for everybody)
2. Second Chances (With Michael W. Smith)
3. The Last Sin Eater (just came out recently on DVD)
4. The Ultimate Gift (will come out on DVD in July or August)
5. Most (Subtitled-Wonderful, illustration of what God did for us-William Zabka, aka Billy from Karate Kid wrote this movie with a friend. He came to salvation through a story like this one)
6. Joshua (A what if tale???)
7. The Perfect Stranger (you cannot believe how many "Why Jesus" questions this movie answers-WONDERFUL)
8. The Left Behind Movies (there are 3 now) Love that Kirk Cameron-a teenage crush of mine :)
9. The Gospel
10. The "Love Comes Softly Series" (there are 5 movies now-if you want to know the names, leave a comment)
11. Though None Go With Me (Cheryl Ladd, aka Charlie's Angels stars in this show)
12. Facing the Giants, and Flywheel both by the Kendrick brothers (WONDERFUL!!!)
13. End of the Spear (about Jim Elliott and the other 4 missionaries that were killed-wonderful story of Redemption)... Also, see the documentary, "Beyond the Gates of Splendor" too.

Pop some popcorn and enjoy. I have watched many of these movies with my Small Group. These movies are great discussion starters :)


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May Day Challenge

First of all, I want to say thank you to all the wonderful ladies that have encouraged me during the May Day Challenge... Most of them, I did not know already, but they are doing the May Day Challenge too. I know when I say this, it will seem like it is all talk, but I am hoping this time things will be different.

I have learned many things over these last eight weeks, or so, through participating in the May Day Challenge... The things I have learned did not result in weight loss, but I think they were things that I needed to learn in order to live successfully and handle my food addiction. I realized that I could start eating healthy any day, but in order to lose the additional weight I put on over the last year, I am going to have to resort to some kind of "DIET"... I know, I hate that word, but I just mean, I will definitely need to cut back on the calories for awhile, until I get to my desired healthy weight. I have been making changes, but those changes are not going to get the extra 30 pounds off of me. I am going to have to put up a fight with these pesky pounds.

This time I am going to pray that I can truly give this addiction over to God, and let Him lead me down the path that I need to go...not just to rid myself of the 30 extra pounds, but to rid myself of the weight of this oppression, called Food Addiction. It is not a physical heaviness, but a mental, and spiritual one.

I feel the motivation to (as my Friend and I say) "DO THE THING"... (Actually, I think we heard Beth Moore say it, but she probably said, "DO THE THANG"). I found a pair of size 12 jeans in my closet today, that have the label on them. Once I get into them, I will take a picture of me in them, and post it here :)

I know this battle is not just in the physical realm, but also in the Spiritual Realm. I have an Enemy (Satan) that does not want me to be free of this addiction. I know a lot of people get nervous when we talk about Satan, but he is real, and he is out to destroy us. Ephesians 6:12 states... For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

I don't want to stop here... We can win the battle.. Verse 13-16 states... Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition, to all of this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. (I am stopping here..)
But, did you read that last verse? We can extinguish ALL the flaming arrows of the evil one with the shield of faith. All, is a pretty powerful word. Through Christ we can do anything, and we can win every battle with His strength and help.

I know some people think that the "Weight Issue" isn't really a Spiritual issue, but it really is (at least for me). I am constantly thinking about my weight, and many times I withdraw myself from life because of it. If I am constantly obsessing about my weight, then in essence I am chained to this addiction. I am not free. I cannot fully live out God's plans for me, if I am always thinking about Food...

I think this area may always be a struggle for me... maybe not struggle, but like Paul (Bible) talks about a "Thorn in the Flesh". Even though, I will always deal with food in some manner or another, I know I don't have to be controlled by it. I really believe that, and right now, I have to admit, the Food is controlling me.

So tomorrow, I start afresh, with a renewed sense of great hope :) Pray for me, I will need it :) I don't know exactly what my plan is, but I am totally OK with that for now. I am going to let God help direct me... Oh, I guess that is my Plan :)

I am posting this on Monday night, but will weigh myself Tuesday morning for a new starting weight. Starting Weight Again - TBA

God Bless all of you as you continue on your journeys. It is worth the fight to be FREE!!!!

Some Pictures of Family and Friends 2005-2007