Lacey's Corner

Sweet as sugar

2012-01-14T20:58:00.006-06:00

The lil' man. Yep, meet Luke!

Big Sister & Little Brother

Princess Chloe

Happy boy

Just a thought

2012-01-08T21:32:00.009-06:00

The difficult part about being an introspective, psuedo-analytical introvert is that we tend to isolate people from us, and create a lot of internal anxiety because of trying to think things over too much in our minds. It's probably even harder for women seeing as how EVERYTHING is connected to everything, and multiple wires are crossing each other during the process.

When certain situations arise and require a decision to be made, (at that time or on down the road),or just situations make their arrival in my life, I tend to think, and think, and think about EVERYTHING, and then think about it some more. It can be very helpful, but it can also throw me into an emotional and disillusioned tailspin because I view it through my eyes. This can also cause me to be vulnerable to the enemy's lies and ungodly wisdom. Sometimes, before we introverts even begin to pray about it, we've already come up with the sollution and plan for our problems/predicament so much so that it's difficult to discern what God is actually saying.

After a period that caused a lot of turmoil internally, this thought hit me: I need to analyze everything through God's lense. Do I believe that just because I can think through something so much, and ask for God's help later on, that I can figure it all out? When situations arise that require some discernment, the first place I need to go is my knees. I need to ask God for His wisdom so that I can view the problem with His eyes instead of relying upon my own mental processes. If I don't do this, then I am in danger of viewing a distorted image, and I open myself up to ungodly wisdom. It's very easy to think that even though you've analyzed something over and over again, (and actually thinking about it more than you've prayed), you KNOW the right answer. Do not be so quick to assert the solution - you must learn to wait on God's voice and wisdom instead of trying to analyze it all on your own. I'm definitely not saying you shouldn't think about things, rather you should seek God's help as you try to view it with His eyes. Too many times we try to dicipher what it is God is saying, instead of first allowing Him to speak and point our focus in the right direction. And if you're like me, you've thought about something so much so that you become frazzled emotionally, worn out mentally, and stressed out physically.

So before you do anything else, ask God to help you see whatever it is you're going to look at through His lense. I believe this ties along with the verse in Proverbs that says not to lean on your own understanding. If you first seek God's help in revealing the right direction you will be leaning on His own understanding. This will aid you in not completely distorting a picture once you try your hand at disecting it.

Just something that I've been learning recently.

Bow the Knee- Paige Brumley/Stonebriar Community Church Choir/Orchestra

2011-10-29T22:30:00.001-05:00

This is a beautiful rendition of this song! It was performed by the orchestra at Chuck Swindoll's church. (Please make sure to mute the music on the playlist below!)

We're excited!!

2011-10-15T23:04:00.005-05:00

Can you guess why we're excited around here? Yep, we're celebrating the birth of a new little one! My nephew, Luke, made his debut last night. Momma and baby are both doing great, daddy's doing great, and the family? Well, I think the picture is a pretty good depiction of how the family is doing. :-) Pictures forthcoming.

Breaking radio silence

2011-05-01T15:06:00.008-05:00

I am finally breaking radio silence, or in this case, blog silence! I was on here the other day and hadn't realized that the last time I posted something was in March. Figures!

For this post, I decided to write some more about my trip to Hawaii as well. I will be placing a number to each line that corresponds with each picture so that you can visibly understand what I've talked about. (However, once again, Blogger is not allowing me to upload anything Hawaiian. Hopefully soon, ya'll!) Also, one more note. These won't necessarily be in order.

Enough said.....enjoy!

1. For Thanksgiving we decided to add a little Hawaiian flair to our meal. Grilled turkey (thanks to Rod!), Hawaiian dinner rolls, Tropical Ambrosia Salad, and....Purple Sweet Potato Pie! YES, there are such things as purple sweet potatoes.

2. Thanksgiving day also included my first try at snorkeling. Rod helped coach Steph & I to the proper ways of breathing. We swam in the tide pools which very in depth. You would never guess that those fish were lurking down there just by observing from the top!

3. We visited Kona where the water was the most aqua blue I had ever seen in person in my life! LOVED it! We snorkeled more and got to be about 8 feet away from a Sea Turtle. Also, I finally got to experience a sun setting on the Pacific Ocean. (LOVE those, too!)

4. Used flippers for the first time, too.

5. Swam in a lava-heated pool. Lots of algae floating in there -- but it felt great! It was almost like being in a "Jurassic Park" movie.

6. Drove through dense tropical forests (a.k.a. jungle). Saw so many unusual plants, trees, and exotic flowers!

7. Tasted Maui Gold pineapple, Star Fruit, Liliquoi (sp? Passion Fruit -- fresh, I might add!), fresh coconut & coconut water, Liliquoi-Tangerine lemonade, Rambutan (wild looking stuff, but surprisingly good), Nonni fruit, papaya boats with banana and freshly squeezed passion fruit juice, and sugar cane. Oh, and I was also "introduced" to peanut butter and honey sandwiches. ;-)

8. The morning after we arrived, Tanner caught a gecko in the corner of the window -- INSIDE the house.

9. A banana tree growing right outside the house.

10. Having the windows open at night, listening to the croqies (frogs that sound very similar to crickets).

11. Gentle rains coming and going several times a day.

12. Walking through Sherwood Forrest. This was due to the boys' machete work in the rainforest growing in their backyard.

13. Driving past an avocado farm, mango, banana and macademia trees, as well as coconut palm trees.

14. Biking down to the lava cliffs with Steph one day, seeing exotic looking chickens crossing the path, and putting flowers in our hair.

15. One morning, Steph and I watched the sun rise while sitting on the lava cliffs. There were some spectacular shots from that morning!

16. We really wanted to hitch-hike our way back to the R's home, but it just didn't work out. Shortly after we arrived, we were told that hitch-hiking is actually a very normal thing to do over there.

17. Going to the Farmer's Market in Hilo. We bought papaya, Kona coffee, (even chomping down on one of the coffee beans), looking at Poi face-to-face, (no, I did not try it!). Rochelle even bought us an exotic flower arrangement for our room, which was wrapped in banana leaves.

18. Went to an "outdoor church". They met in a building that had garage-like doors opened up and the Hawaii air wafting through.

19. Saw an ad for the "Hawaiian Nutcracker Ballet". Overheard "Baby It's Cold Outside" playing in one of the grocery stores, and driving past houses with Christmas lights & decorations. (It's wierd seeing that in someplace tropical.)

20. Visiting a total of three waterfalls, Kahuna Falls, Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls. While sitting in the parking lot at Rainbow Falls -- a rainbow appeared overhead! No joke.

So, those are the first 20 things on my list -- and there's much more!

Stubborn Love

2011-03-27T22:16:00.000-05:00

No Limits.m4v

2011-03-05T14:15:00.001-06:00

It's time to vote! My friend, Liz, is trying to win an essay/video contest for CollegePlus. So, help her out by viewing/liking the video. The more likes/hits she gets, the more chances she has of winning. I know she'll really appreciate your help! Make sure you click on the button "YouTube" so that the views will count!

(By the way, my brother makes a cameo apperance!!)

Can you guess?

2011-02-25T22:32:00.006-06:00

So, if you were to see pears....

Aqua colored damask...

and white Chinese lanterns...could you guess what I'm up to?

Don your birthday hat!

2011-02-01T19:29:00.004-06:00

Usually at the end of the year I will celebrate the birthday of my blog. Last year? Failure! SO, I thought it was high time I did something about it. Lacey's Corner turned 3 years old in December. (Yes, you don't have to mention the obvious...it's way over due.)

In the coming days I will also be highlighting a couple of other birthday girls, as well.

But, until then I would love to hear from all those who read/follow my blog! How did you find Lacey's Corner? What would you like to see from it in the future?

Short or long, just make sure you stop by and say howdy! :-)

Down Under...

2011-01-03T20:30:00.004-06:00

Since I began writing my post a few days ago you'll find the Hawaii post down under this....mahalo! :-)

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming...

2011-01-01T18:09:00.002-06:00

Okay, so after I spent time on writing my first installment about my trip, Blogger is acting up and won't let me post those pictures. SO, "just keep swimming" (or, rather, just keep waiting), and hopefully something will be up soon!

Aloha!

2011-01-01T17:18:00.019-06:00

So, I am now getting over here to give you a small glimpse of my trip to Hawaii! It would take me forever to write about my trip with all the details, but I will highlight things we experienced, trying to do it in stages (so that I won't be overwhelmed!). And, seeing as how I took more pictures than I've ever taken in my LIFE...I'm going to be a little picky; it would just take too much time to post even half (yes, there are over 1000 pictures!!) of the shots I took. So, hopefully this will open up a tourist's view of the exotic Big Island of Hawaii.

But first, I would like to give you a little background as to how all this happened. I never, ever guessed that I would be flying over the Pacific Ocean, tasting fresh coconut, or walking on lava rock one year ago from today! Believe it or not, the planning of this trip occurred 4 days before our plane took off!! (Slightly crazy, yes.) While my friend Stephanie and I were talking at a friend's bonfire she mentioned the idea of going on a trip...and going to Hawaii. (Lacey's thoughts, "Wow, of course, but could this be possible? I hope so!") So, after I got home I disussed it with my parents......and it seemed like a possibility. The next morning we were online looking at ticket prices and dates. The result? A flight booked for the Big Island of Hawaii! (Wild!) An interesting sidenote here. Earlier this year I really wanted to see the ocean -- more than usual. I talked to my family about going, but we just never got around to it. After the summer & fall months passed I didn't really consider it as an option. However, in a little over 24 hours of broaching the subject my wish was starting to become a reality! And Hawaii of all places for it to come true!!

Really, the only reason Hawaii was a thought for us was because some of Steph's relatives are living over there for a short time due to her uncle's work. It was an unsual opportunity. The R's lovingly opened up their home and welcomed us to stay with them while we were there.

As the day rolled around for our the beginning of our trip, we found ourselves anticipating our big adventure. Personally, I've never traveled overseas in my life. (Thankfully, it really didn't bother me when were flying.) We had a couple layovers, one in Denver and one in Honolulu before we made our final destination. We flew in a huge airplane, met some new people, and remained in the air for 7 hours over the ocean.

Excitedly, the next place where our feet touched solid ground was in the Honolulu airport!! It was awesome! The weather was great, the birds were singing and we were welcomed with palm trees, flowers and mountains when we walked outside. We waited a little bit for our shuttle to take us to the other part of the airport where we would seperately catch our island hoppers. We both killed a little time in our different terminals and waited for the last leg of the journey. Soon, we boarded the plane that offered us Macademia nuts. (I'm not necessarily a big fan of Macademia's, but since it's kinda a big part of Hawaii, I thought I would throw it in there!) By this time, it was past 8:00 in Hawaii, and as I flew over Hilo, I got to watch night clouds that were illuminated by the moonlight float by while listening to some beaufitul music playing on my MP3. (Yes, I can be a romantic.)

Finally, after over 10 hours of traveling we were greeted with lei's from the R family!! After they picked us up from the airport (and gave us some supper), we headed over to Coconut Island where Steph & I had our first encounter with the Pacific Ocean!!!!!!! It was a beautiful night! The temperature, the mist hanging in the air over Mauna Kea with little sparkles of light here and there from the locals' homes was a pretty sight.
Soon after we arrived at the R's home, Rochelle (Steph's aunt), gave us a little warning: black centipedes. I guess since everything grows at least 5 times bigger over there it would make sense for the wild life to grow that big too, huh? Rochelle told us about these aggressive 'little' bugs that can cause serious damage if they bite you; so, as a precaution, she told us not to keep our clothes on the floor and to always check under our covers when we went to bed. (EEEK!!) Fortunately we never encountered one of these little guys, and the only other roomy we had join us one morning was a lizard. ;-)

So, I guess that's part 1 of my trip! I didn't really plan on writing that much, but once I started I guess I didn't stop! Hope you enjoyed this installment about our first encounters during our trip.

Two excited travelers on the plane to Honolulu

Aerial view of Hawaiian clouds ;-)
HONOLULU!!!!

Yep, pretty quiet

Our leis

Rochelle - our hostess!

2011: A New Year

2011-01-01T13:08:00.005-06:00

New Year

Streams in the Desert

"The land whither ye go to possess it is a land of hills and valleys and drinketh water of the rain of heaven: a land which the Lord thy God careth for: the eyes of the Lord are always upon it, from the beginning of the year even unto the end of the year" (Deut. 11:11-12).

Today dear friends, we stand upon the verge of the unknown. There lies before us the new year and we are going forth to possess it. Who can tell what we shall find? What new experiences, what changes shall come, what new needs shall arise? But here is the cheering, comforting, gladdening message from our Heavenly Father, "The Lord thy God careth for it." "His eyes are upon it away to the ending of the year."

All our supply is to come from the Lord. Here are springs that shall never dry; here are fountains and streams that shall never be cut off. Here, anxious one, is the gracious pledge of the Heavenly Father. If He be the Source of our mercies they can never fail us. No heat, no drought can parch that river, "the streams whereof make glad the city of God."

The land is a land of hills and valleys. It is not all smooth nor all down hill. If life were all one dead level the dull sameness would oppress us; we want the hills and the valleys. The hills collect the rain for a hundred fruitful valleys. Ah, so it is with us! It is the hill difficulty that drives us to the throne of grace and brings down the shower of blessing; the hills, the bleak hills of life that we wonder at and perhaps grumble at, bring down the showers. How many have perished in the wilderness, buried under its golden sands, who would have lived and thriven in the hill-country; how many would have been killed by the frost, blighted with winds, swept desolate of tree and fruit but for the hill-stern, hard, rugged, so steep to climb. God's hills are a gracious protection for His people against their foes!

We cannot tell what loss and sorrow and trial are doing. Trust only. The Father comes near to take our hand and lead us on our way today. It shall be a good, a blessed new year!

He leads us on by paths we did not know;

Upward He leads us, though our steps be slow,

Though oft we faint and falter on the way,

Though storms and darkness oft obscure the day;

Yet when the clouds are gone,

We know He leads us on.

He leads us on through all the unquiet years;

Past all our dreamland hopes, and doubts and fears,

He guides our steps, through all the tangled maze

Of losses, sorrows, and o'erclouded days;

We know His will is done;

And still He leads us on.

--N.L. Zinzendorf

Guess

2010-12-19T14:42:00.003-06:00

Can you guess where I went? You have two days to guess. For those who get it right, I'll highlight your name in big, bold letters on my blog! (I know, not the gift you were wanting...) Also, I have to say that this honor excludes those who already know! (Sorry guys, but we have to be fair!) ;-)

We Need A Little Christmas Right This Very Minute!

2010-12-09T20:11:00.002-06:00

Yes, yes, yes...WAAAAYY over due on a post!! But, trust me, I have much to post about. First, my unexpected trip to someplace you'd never expect, and then about my new job!! But, you'll just have to wait until I can compile everything in the proper way. So, hopefully by the weekend my first post in the series will be up.

In case you haven't noticed, Christmas time is here. Amazingly enough, I haven't changed my background in a couple of months. So, not only will this place get new posts, it's also going to get a major makeover now that the Christmas season is upon us. As Linus would say, "all it needs is a little love". ;-)

Stay tuned!

Highlights From My Trip

2010-10-13T19:48:00.004-05:00

I started thinking about all of the experiences I've had during this trip to Indiana and decided that I would share some of them with you in this post. (Wow, long sentence!)

First, Dad & I began our journey on the 28th of September. At one of our stops Dad got a bag of pork rinds, (I've still refused to try those things!), while I ate some of my sugar-free chocolates. When we pulled over for some petro Dad got out his laptop for me so that I could watch a movie on. SO, while the two of us traveled down the Interstate we enjoyed "Our Mutual Friend". (Yes, we LOVE long movies!) Kinda interesting doing it that way, but hey -- it works! (And it was fun...although, I'm sure many of the truckers could see the screen quite nicely, too.)

The next evening, Dad & I spent some time with my great aunt, Mabel. She lives in a retirement community and invited us to have dinner with her down in the restaurant. Afterwards, she took us up to her apartment and gave us a tour. It was there that I learned a few interesting things, (as well as being reminded, again!). First, at one corner of her bedroom a bookcase stood with an American flag folded up and encased in a wooden box. My great uncle Maurice was a World War 2 vet, and was stationed in Italy for three years. He would have fit in well over there since he had lots of black hair. :-) Also, above their wedding picture (which I captured on my phone), was a certificate acknowledging their marriage of over 60 years! Unfortunately, Maurice passed away before they were able to celebrate 64 years of marriage.

The day came for my grandma's surgery which was being performed in Indianapolis. The three of us made our way up there, followed by my uncle, grandma's pastor & some friends.

Over the weekend my Dad & I went to see an IU football game. For those of you who follow them...they were playing Michigan. (I hear it leaves a bad taste in the mouth of a Hoosier!) ;-) The game was a sell-out! I guess they haven't beat Michigan in like 27 years -- so it would have been history made if they would've won! :-)

Sunday night Grandma got to come home but, unfortunately, didn't feel good that entire week. Her body was just slow to wake up from the surgery. So, Dad & I decided to stay for a bit longer. On Thursday of last week, Dad went ahead and drove home, and I stayed there; we had discussed the possibility of this at the beginning so it wasn't a surprise to me. Anyways, I won't go into all of the details, but we did end up re-admitting Grandma back into the hospital to help with some of her issues. She was in there for a couple days but got to go back home on Wednesday.

I found a $1 dollar bill in the garage elevator at the hospital! I never find that much money anywhere! Reminds me of the time when my oldest brother found a $100 bill while attending a seminar...yeah, lucky. ;-)

A week ago this past Friday, I only got about an hour and half's worth of sleep before I had to get up and get ready for my journey home. For some reason, I just couldn't fall asleep that night! I was planning on getting up at 4 o' clock that morning, but actually awoke around 3:30...meaning I fell asleep about 2....sad, sad, sad. ;-)

I think those are some of the most interesting highlights of my trip! Like I said, no pictures (sadly), but definitely moments worth writing about. Hope you enjoyed my trip! :-)

Letter to Home

2010-10-09T13:09:00.002-05:00

Hey Everyone!

I've been a little neglectful lately with my blog over the last month or so. Sometimes it's hard to figure out something to post, but I thought I would take a stab at it today, although it may just be a small one.

Over the last week & a half I've been making Indiana my 'home'. My grandma was undergoing surgery so my dad & I decided to make a trip out here to be with her during that time. Her surgery did go well and everything, however her recovery has been a slow process. Grandma's body is just not "waking up" very fast. Today it seems as though she's feeling better, so that's good. So, I'm still here and helping out when I can. My time has been productive, though! I took a few books with me, plus my music theory and have been able to knock out the rest of my book and even spend some time studying. Plus, she has a keyboard that I'm able to play. Yay! The weather is beautiful here, today, and the fall foliage has been quite pretty. (Fall time in Indiana is beautiful!) Grandma & I had to go to the hospital yesterday morning, and the drive through the trees was quite enjoyable!

I don't know what else to write at this point, so I'll just leave it at that!

(And no, I won't have any pictures to post of this trip...didn't bring a camera!) :-(

Family Time

2010-09-28T00:41:00.008-05:00

Here are some recent snapshots that Abby from AbbyNoellePhotography took of my brother, Griff, sister-in-law, Bek, and niece, Chloe. It's interesting to look at pictures of Chloe last year and compare her pictures to more recent shots -- she's growing up! But, we're all lovin' it! It's fun to hear her "words", and she's toddling around everywhere.

Awwww!

2010-08-31T10:34:00.002-05:00

Incredible Thought

2010-08-17T16:21:00.004-05:00

"God never pursues His glory at the expense of the good of His people,

Nor does He ever seek our good at the expense of His glory.

He has designed His eternal purpose so that His glory and our good are

inextricably bound together."

~Jerry Bridges~

Trusting God

This, That, and the Other

2010-07-30T11:19:00.021-05:00

So I’ve delayed long enough, time for some one-on-one chatting!

Since I alluded to some busyness, I’ll try to do my best at relaying personal happenings. :-)

As you already know, Abby graduated in May. In general, I think May marks the season of many graduations, and this year was no exception! I don’t believe we’ve known more people graduating than this year…at least 10. (You’re probably thinking that’s quite small…for us…it just isn’t!) So, that filled some of our days.

Also in May, my grandma M. came for an extended visit. She was able to see where we live, visit with her great-granddaughter, spend time with us, and also be here for Abby’s graduation. Not only that, but at the end of May, Ab & I attended our church’s young adult retreat at a local State Park. We enjoyed camping, eating around the campfire, coming together for 4 different sessions (the topic for the retreat was “The Names of Christ”), volleyball, and….the Tri-Fecta challenge. Having never heard of it before either, I’ll explain.

There are three phases to this challenge. Since we were already divided into multiple teams for the weekend, each team had to complete a certain phase. The first phase was: build your own raft -- only using the materials given, or off the land, which included 6 trash bags, 50+ balloons, and…duct tape. Mhm, yes, duct tape. So, our teams had a half an hour to work on their raft. We were blowing, taping, and collaborating about the third part of the challenge.
Second phase: race your raft against another team. (Yes, it had to be float-worthy!!) One of the leaders went out several yards from the shore and buoyed a beach ball in the lake. The rules of the race: two people from your team must be on the raft (this I wasn’t so sure about since I was one of the two on the boat…I was afraid embarrassment would call my name!); one of the team members had to take a Gnome from our YAC leader’s hand, which already had a sponge inside it, and we had to safely take it across the lake and back -- trying not to let it fall into the water or get wet, otherwise there would be a points deduction.
Well, the race began! After having the privilege of watching a couple of the teams race, team Emmanuel geared up for the challenge. I went ahead and sat on the front part of the raft, while my friend, Allison, retrieved our Gnome and got into position as the other paddler. With two pieces of wood trim, we paddled our way across the lake -- with hopes of not sinking! Happily, we made it to the buoy and back with no mad underwater accidents. Sadly, we lost that round to the other team.
After we all enjoyed watching & rooting the other teams on, everyone headed back to the campsite for the third part of the challenge: a skit. The rules of the game were that you had to be on marooned on an island, and use two prize words. I won’t take the time to explain everyone’s skit, but they were definitely enjoyable! Afterwards, everyone voted for their favorite skit.

The winning skit!

A fun weekend was had by all!

June came bustling all over and we still kept busy with things. One of which was the annual home school conference we attend. Although we do make it to the local exhibit, we also enjoy taking a jot over to St. Louis for their conference. The speakers are great! We enjoyed listening to Ken Ham, Kevin Swanson, and Paul Jehle; also in attendance were Marshall Foster & Woody Robertson. It was good to see our friends over there as well! That’s usually the only time we get to see them.

Also, we experienced a sad moment in June. My grandpa (whom we lovingly called "Poppy", my mom's dad) passed away at the age of 81. His health had slowly gotten worse over the previous 8 months, so it wasn't a complete shock. It's never easy, though. We miss him!

Over the 4th of July we had a family of friends over to celebrate. We shot off fireworks, ate a lot of food, played Round Robin at the ping-pong table, enjoyed homemade banana ice cream, and to top it all off…played in the downpour! Yep, our 4th was a rain-soaking event during the night hours. But, did that stop us? No! Me and a friend actually had a Roman candle war, and the others lit their fireworks as well! Not only that, but all of us young people decided to be a little crazy and…run out into the rain and get drenched! Needless to say we were totally soaked!! But, I’m glad we did it, good memories.

Now for the biggest news. We've moved! We tried hard to find a home in the country, but nothing was coming through for us on that end. However, the home we did find is located in a quiet, older neighborhood with lots of trees, and privacy. We officially moved in about three weeks ago, with the big help of some good friends. We are so grateful to those who were able to come pick up furniture (piano and all), boxes and all of our ‘treasures’ -- we couldn’t have done it without you!

Ab & I also had the privilege of helping out with our church’s VBS this year -- a first for both of us. I was in charge of the 5th graders -- it was so good to meet them! I must confess that I was starting to freak out the night before the first day, but everything turned out okay.

Last week both my sisters attended Jr. Camp. Ab helped and Molly was a camper. They both really enjoyed it! That's the first time either one of them had been away for that period of time. Thursday evening the camp hosted a Family Night for all the families of the campers, counselors, and staffers. It was awesome to hear the team's cheers back and forth!! Ohh...I loved it! We also got to watch the skit that they perform every year -- it was great! By the end of the week, we had two, blue face painted girls who were very tired. But, they loved it!

Shwew! I hope that doesn’t wear you out! That’s the trouble with dragging your feet, everyone else gets the dust!

I’m sure many of you are busy this summer, too! Drop me a note sometime to let me know what you’ve been doing…

Happy Summer!

All the Way

2010-07-26T13:41:00.003-05:00

All the way my Savior leads me,

What have I to ask beside?

Can I doubt His tender mercy,

Who through life has been my Guide?

Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort,

Here by faith in Him to dwell!

For I know, whate’er befall me,

Jesus doeth all things well;

For I know, whate’er befall me,

Jesus doeth all things well.

All the way my Savior leads me,

Cheers each winding path I tread,

Gives me grace for every trial,

Feeds me with the living Bread.

Though my weary steps may falter

And my soul athirst may be,

Gushing from the Rock before me,

Lo! A spring of joy I see;

Gushing from the Rock before me,

Lo! A spring of joy I see.

All the way my Savior leads me,

Oh, the fullness of His love!

Perfect rest to me is promised

In my Father’s house above.

When my spirit, clothed immortal,

Wings its flight to realms of day

This my song through endless ages:

Jesus led me all the way;

This my song through endless ages:

Jesus led me all the way.

~Fanny Crosby

Summer goin' by too fast?

2010-07-21T18:23:00.003-05:00

Busy?

2010-07-21T18:19:00.003-05:00

Hmmmm....I think! Yes, life has been VERY busy around here! Okay, maybe not so busy as the lady above...but trust me, life has been full.

I'll try to post more sometime and give you the latest and greatest, but for now I just thought I'd pop over to say a few words.

My, my, my....

2010-06-28T13:18:00.010-05:00

So, I should probably get another post in here before the month's over...one just doesn't seem to cut it in the blogging world! However, you can tell I've changed my background (so out-of-the-norm for me, right?!). I think Blogger made a great move when they decided to offer more background designs, as well as the freedom to personalize it more. Although the scene I've chosen doesn't exactly scream "cute"...it does say summer!

I know I've promised you pictures of past events, so I'm going to give you a small glimpse into the evening of Abby's high school graduation. She had the special opportunity to give one of the two senior addresses. Ab did a great job and didn't even really say, "um". She praises the Lord for all He did and how He helped her with the speech.

The Graduate with her proud parents

Little Chloe girl and Aunt Ab

Delivering the speech

So, how has your summer been? This upcoming month is going to be crazy!! So, in the meantime while you wait for my next post, would you mind sharing what some of your most favorite things are about summer??

More to come!

2010-06-02T13:21:00.002-05:00

Boy, do I have a bunch of pictures to post! From Abby's graduation to recent shots of Chloe...just keep your eyes peeled!

Of rice and cell phones...

2010-06-02T13:14:00.004-05:00

Yep...you girls got it right -- my phone got wet! We had been playing ultimate frisbee in the rain one evening and my phone was affected by it. (It was even in a plastic bag!!)

I had never heard of this miracle cure for cell phones beore, but can say that it works! So, the next time your phone falls in the ocean, lake or sink...take the battery out and put both the phone and battery in a bunch of dry rice. You'll save money! :-)

???

2010-05-24T21:52:00.001-05:00

Can anyone guess why in the world I have my cell in a cup of dry rice???

A Blast From the Past

2010-05-20T15:36:00.008-05:00

For some reason today I decided to scoot my “treasure chest” out from my closet and scour through my old mementos. (Umm, I have to interject something here, though…I’ve come to realize that some of them could hardly be labeled as “momentous”!)

Amid my humble cache...

~ A Teddy Town bear couple figurine -- broken and patiently awaiting a good fix with glue
~ One of those flyer pins my dad gave to me from one of his flights (no he's not a pilot, he just went on a trip!)
~ A bunch of letters, old invitations, and graduation cards
~ A Precious Moment figurine
~ A before and after picture from the Orthodontist…those teeth were not a pretty sight!

Still, there were a few items that I thought I would highlight and share with you all.

Throughout my life, my parents encouraged me to keep a journal. I was faithful with it until about five or so years ago and then moved away from it almost altogether. (I try to pick up where I left off…but it is rather tiring to catch up on 6 months of news!) While skimming through them, I was intrigued by the things that I chose to write about: friends I happened to talk to at church that day, birthday presents I got and what store I was going to visit. Wow. At least no one can accuse me of not journaling!!

The second thing I thought I would share with you involves two flower bouquets from past birthdays. For my Sweet 16th birthday, my parents bought me a bouquet of light colored sweetheart roses. I’ve considered placing them somewhere in my room for decorational purposes. We’ll see! The other bouquet I pulled out of my treasure trove was from my 18th birthday. (I actually have a blurry but informative picture.) For that birthday my family took me to Bravo’s Italian Cucina (beautiful place by the way), and my brother gave me two tickets to see Andre Rieu in concert.

Then...

Now

Last but not least, I have something for all my former (and present) American Girl buffs out there! I don’t know what you were like when you were 10, but for me and one of my other friends -- we LOVED American Girls stuff! I looked through their magazines, cut & pasted the dolls in the magazine onto colored paper, played with my actual dolls (Samantha, Kirsten, and Addy), and succeeded in pulling out Kirsten’s braids and tangling her hair into a complete frizzy mess!! So, what do I have to offer my fellow AG fans? PAPER DOLLS!! Yes, a very old set of Samantha paper dolls & clothes!! I had completely forgotten about them until I found my folder today!

Hope you enjoyed some of my paraphernalia! :-)

GREECE

2010-04-30T13:28:00.005-05:00

Hello fellow traveling buddies!

Okay, so after our time in Ireland (which wasn't given the attention it needed!), we flew our way to the land of Greece. Isn't the Mediterranean Sea so blue?! I love looking at it against the white buildings. And you have to agree, the view from our hotel room (down below) is quite spectacular!

The weather's a bit warmer than the Emerald Isle, wouldn't you say?

I hope our stay is pleasant and that you are able to enjoy a swim sometime!

She's growing up!

2010-04-30T12:46:00.003-05:00

*Chloe*

Sick & tired?

2010-04-20T23:04:00.002-05:00

I dare say you are -- of my mad slow blogging skills, right?!?!? Yes...I think I am too. This trip around the world has been a little difficult...mostly because I don't take the time I need to in order to research everything. Arghhh....

So, we're going to wrap things up by tomorrow night by only learning about 1 interesting tidbit of Ireland. (Hopefully you all don't bean me with one of those fine bone china teacups you picked up in England...wouldn't make a happy tour guide.) ;-)

Hang in there...almost ready to take flight to a new place!

Lamb of God

2010-04-03T00:50:00.004-05:00

Your only Son, no sin to hide.
But You have sent Him from Your side,
To walk upon this guilty sod,
And to become the Lamb of God.

Your gift of love, they crucified.
They laughed and scorned Him as He died.
The humble King, they named a fraud
And sacrificed the Lamb of God.

Oh Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God!
I love the holy Lamb of God.
Oh wash me in Your precious blood,
My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God!

I was so lost, I should have died.
But You have brought me to Your side,
To be lead by Your staff and rod,
To be called a lamb of God.

Oh Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God!
I love the holy Lamb of God.
Oh wash me in Your precious Blood,
Till I am just a Lamb of God.

"This, the power of the cross: Christ became sin for us;
Took the blame, bore the wrath—We stand forgiven at the cross."

~~~~~~~~~~

It was your sin that brought Him to the cross.
The mocking Jesus experienced was unprovoked...but He endured it for you.
The suffering inflicted upon Jesus was unmerited...but He suffered it for you.
The weight of the cross was not meant for Jesus...but He bore it for you.
The death Jesus died was not one He deserved...but He died it for you.
The price Jesus paid was not one He owed...but He paid it for you.

Why did the Son of God do this for you? Because He loved you so much, hated sin that much, therefore, He chose to experience, suffer, bear, die and pay the penalty that much for you so that you could be free from the power of death, and become a child of God.
If you have never trusted Christ for the forgiveness of your sin, you are a sinner. I was too, until I received His gift.

Do you desire to be washed from your sin? To be forgiven and clean in the sight of God?
If the answer is yes, then you too can have this gift -- today!

Tell the Lord that you believe in what He has done for you; confess that you are a sinner, and that you want to be forgiven of all your sin, and become His own. Thank Him for His death and resurrection.

Then...live an abundant life as His child!!

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."

Romans 10:9

Peanut Butter Toffee Cheesecake Brownies

2010-03-27T18:55:00.005-05:00

Brownies are probably one of my favorite desserts! (Although, pretty much anything chocolatey & gooey is bound to find its way to my heart!)

Anyways, last week my grandma called to say she had a new recipe for us to try: Peanut Butter Toffee Cheesecake Brownies. She got it out of the paper and already had a batch in the oven. So, I decided to make them this week. Very rich, but definitely one to put in the recipe box! Hope you enjoy them!

Peanut Butter Toffee Cheescake Brownies

1 box chocolate fudge brownie mix

1/2 c. canola oil

1/4 c. water

2 eggs

1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened

1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk

1/2 c. creamy peanut butter

1 8 oz. bag Heath bits
1 c. milk chocolate chips

3 T. whipping cream

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly spray 9x13 pan. In medium bowl mix brownie mix, oil, water, and eggs. Pour into prepared pan.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese with mixer on medium speed until fluffy; add milk & peanut butter until smooth. Stir in 1 cup toffee bits. Spoon mixture over batter. Bake for 30-40 minutes until set & edges are golden brown. Cool on cooling rack for 30 minutes. Refrigerate for 40 minutes.

In small bowl, microwave chocolate chips and whipping cream until melted. Stir to make smooth. Spread over cooled cheesecake layers. Sprinkle with remaining toffee bits. Cool completely. Store in fridge.

Yes, if you haven't noticed -- EVERYTHING bad & terrible is in this recipe...but still good! ;-)

Enjoy!

Go green...

2010-03-24T00:26:00.002-05:00

I bet you'll never guess where we are!

Top o' the mornin' to ye!

2010-03-15T19:24:00.008-05:00

Ello!

Well, if you've finished your spot of tea, (the rave of Englishmen!), shall we venture out on this lovely English evening and take a quick turn around London? I thought you'd say yes!

Since we've already experienced the tall red buses at the beginning of our tour, I thought that we would forgo that and get some exercise by walking. The weather is fairly mild & wet so make sure you bring your jacket and an umbrella!

Our first stop will be Buckingham Palace. (So maybe my blog header isn't really Lacey's Corner!) ;-) As we step inside this massive piece of architecture we can view the beautiful Grand Staircase.

I'm not quite sure if we're supposed to be in this next room -- the Throne Room...so we'll just take a quick peak and then leave.

Quick! Be quiet and curtsy -- just as we were coming out of the Throne Room, I spotted Queen Elizabeth II!!I knew it was her because her clothes consist mostly of solid-colour overcoats and decorative hats, which allow her to be seen easily in a crowd. Her main leisure interests include equestrianism, photography, and dogs, especially her Pembroke Welsh Corgis.

Now that we've left the palace, we can take a quick picture in front of Big Ben for the sake of saying "Been there, done that"! :-) It's the largest clock in Great Britain. Because of changes in ground conditions since construction, the tower leans slightly to the north-west. The clock is famous for its reliability.

After crossing the London Bridge (by the way, a bridge has existed at or near the present site over the period from the Roman occupatiom of the area, nearly 2,000 years ago. The first bridge across the Thames in the London area, probably a military pontoon bridge, was built of wood by the Romans on the present site around 50 AD.), we are now back at our hotel.

Hope you enjoyed our little visit in England. (I'm thinking that our next stop will be done in a more timely fashion!) But, before you retire, make sure you finish British authoress, Jane Austen's "Pride & Prejudice" near your bedstand, which she wrote in the year 1813.

Pack up and sleep tight because we'll be leaving (hopefully by Wednesday) for our next destination, which is -- wait, why not surprise you? :-)

Pictures courtesy of photographer, Derry Moore,

The Royal Collection 2010

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and

Wickipedia.com

Bits of information retrieved from Wickipedia.com

Dear me...

2010-03-13T00:16:00.002-06:00

well, you're probably wondering what happened to your tour guide by now, huh? (I guess I must have taken a detour on one of those red buses!!) So, maybe by the first of the week I will have another post for you. You've probably discovered all of the fascinating facts about your hotel that you possibly can! ;-)

Soon, weary & bored travelers...we'll be on our way!

England!

2010-03-01T20:52:00.002-06:00

Hello ol' chaps! ;-)

I say, you have now placed your feet on the solid ground of England! You must be tired from your travels, so why don't you pop on over to the hotel. Might I suggest one of these as your means of transportation?

Stay tuned for more!

photo courtesy:
www.theredbus.co.uk/about/index.html

Bon Voyage!

2010-02-26T17:29:00.003-06:00

Well, we've officially set sail for our trip around the world!!! We should arrive at our destination sometime within next week. But, as we cruise across the Atlantic taking in the salty air, you may be wondering exactly where we're headed. Good question! Drop your answer by the captain's quarters (aka the comment button)!

Around the World in Eighty Days

2010-02-17T09:00:00.006-06:00

Join me for a trip around the world! From Ireland's Emerald hills, Big Ben of London, the arena of the Colosseum, the pyramids of Egypt, the market streets of Morocco, the snowy mountains of Russia, the Great Wall of China, to the shores of the Hawaiian Islands!

Okay…so since neither you or I can actually make a trip around the world in the next 80 days, we will make a *virtual* trip around the world! Over the next three months I will be updating my blog with a destination makeover. With it, there will be an interesting fact about that country and other fun items. So, stay tuned as we embark on a journey around the world!

Now, onto more real-life things, ah-hemm.

Hopefully I will be able to post some more recent pictures, soon. Yes -- I do have some! In the mean time I think I'll wish you a belated "Happy Valentine's Day"!

I’m also considering blogging about more random things. I’ll spare you my thoughts on what is or isn’t random, so you’ll just have to wait and see. But, hopefully you will find them entertaining and maybe even helpful!

So, I guess that’s all I have for you today. Stay tuned for the upcoming tour of the world!

Birthday Time!

2010-02-17T08:49:00.005-06:00

~Molly Kate

Happy Birthday, Molly!

It's her birthday...

2010-01-22T21:09:00.006-06:00

~Abby Noelle

Happy Birthday, Ab!!!

Fancy Chloe!

2010-01-09T20:27:00.024-06:00

Hey there!

Below are pictures from Chloe's 1st birthday party. Such a cute little girlie! We love her so much and get such a kick out of her. She's growing up fast, and her personality is really coming out -- through her small, toothy grins and all!! :-)

As I said in another post, we had a Fancy Nancy party. (I'll try to find a link for her once I get one!) Anyways, enjoy some of these snapshots from her party!

The Cake!!

Waiting timidly for the party to begin! ;-)
You guessed it -- Fancy Nancy!

Poppa & Chloe

Even sparkles in her hair!

Awww!!

Everyone was decked out to the hilt!

Grandmas & Granddaughter

The party!! (Note feathers, jewels, fur, ties, crowns, tux, gloves and hats!)

Cousins

First birthday cake

Even though she had a little help...looks like she's had enough

Lacey, Erin and Abby

For shame. ;-)

Griff & Ab

The cool parents!! ;-D

One cool baby

Happy Birthday!

2009-12-27T15:07:00.003-06:00

Hello all!

Hope you all enjoyed a nice Christmas! We enjoyed ours! It was fairly relaxed and Griff, Bek, and Chloe came over to celebrate the holiday with us. Pictures soon to follow! ;-)

Well, guess what? It's someone's 2nd birthday - mine!! (What, you thought I was older?!) Okay, okay, it's actually my BLOG's 2 year birthday today. Over the past two years, I have written/posted 152 posts - published and unpublished, utilized hundreds of templates, displayed pictures, and met new friends. I've throughly enjoyed my blogging years and will look forward to more in the future!

So, at this time I would like it if you (that means all my blogging buddies, friends, family and the "lurkers"!), to take just a moment and leave a comment telling me a little bit about yourself, where you're from, and how you found my blog.

Thanks so much!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-21T22:16:00.003-06:00

It's okay -- I'll go ahead and say what you're thinking....

It's about time!!!

Ahh...now we can all breathe and be happy again! :-) Yes I have to agree -- it's about time that I posted something on here! I won't try making excuses. I've been very neglectful. But, just because I may lack consistentcy does not mean that I haven't been busy.

I'll start things off by writing about our Thanksgiving. Over the years we usually visit our relatives, near or far, and spend the holiday with them. However, this year we decided to celebrate at our home with just Griff, Bek and Chloe. We had the traditional festive fare, including, "Sweet Home Alabama Dixie Pie"! (Okay, so we've officially dubbed Dixie pie with that name! Have you tried any?) It was a good time of visiting with my brother and his family.

The next big event was celebrating my niece's 1st birthday! The in-laws and "out-laws" came over to join in on the fun and spoiling. :-) The party was themed around the children's storybook character, "Fancy Nancy". So, that meant jewels, fur and feathers were all in order! (Yes -- we did!)

Lately our lives have been filled with preparations for Christmas, including decorating, baking, church Christmas program, shopping, colds, a wedding, and printing family pictures to send out with our annual Christmas letter. It's all coming together! (Hopefully I can get our picture up here along with snapshots of Chloe's day.)

Before I go I thought I would ask you to leave a comment telling about your favorite Christmas traditions. What are they? Have you started a new tradition this year?

Well, just in case I don't post anything until after this week, have a very Merry Christmas!

2009-11-25T10:19:00.000-06:00

*Happy Thanksgiving!!!*

AbbyNoellePhotography

2009-11-09T10:57:00.004-06:00

Hey all! I just wanted to let you know about the newest addition to AbbyNoellePhotography! You can now stop by and visit Miss Abby at AbbyNoellePhotography's website! Be sure to check out the blog as well since it will continuously be updated!

Texas Time

2009-10-20T23:23:00.020-05:00

Howdy ya'll!! In case you're wondering why I'm greeting you with a Southern drawl, it's because the festivities featured in this entire post took place in Texas! Our family had the privilege of attending the wedding of Eric and Hannah, which was held out on a ranch in San Antonio.

Rehearsal dinner

Isn't that cute?!
We also got to pay a visit to the Alamo (Dad was taking this shot!)

There it is!

Decorations

The bridesmaids

The little ring bearers really enjoyed this!

Little flower girls

Mr. D and Hannah

The happy couple!!!

Reception time...isn't that beautiful?!

Wedding cake

Groom's Cake - right along with saddle!

Mrs. Hannah S. and Lindsey

Awww...

Yeehaw!!!

God's Love

2009-10-06T20:39:00.003-05:00

"Put together all the tenderest love you know of,

the deepest you have ever felt,

and the strongest that has ever been poured out upon you,

and heap upon it all the love of all the loving human hearts in the world,

and then multiply it by infinity,

and you will begin, perhaps, to have some faint glimpse

of what the love of God is."

~Hannah Whitall Smith~

Highlight

2009-09-25T14:49:00.003-05:00

As I told you in my last post, I was going to include the link to Abby's website to see the wedding pictures. My sister absolutely LOVES taking pictures!!

Click on the picture and it will direct you to her website!

AbbyNoellePhotography

Enjoy!!

Here I am!

2009-09-14T23:32:00.027-05:00

So it's taken me a little longer than I had hoped to get this post up! Well, I'm not going to give excuses but just dive on into the deep blue of updating you! *smile*

Over the past month, things have been very very busy around here. I've really enjoyed getting to travel some! The third weekend in August, I made my very first "solo" flight to Indy for the W.I.T. Conference (Whatever It Takes) being held in conjunction with IBLP. There were over 200 people in attendance listening to several different sessions covering several topics, by Paul & Jenny Speed. Those topics ranged from the Christian's testimony, being open and broken about sin, listening to God's voice, and to marriage. I met some very nice girls while there and hope to continue building those relationships. I also spent a little time with my grandparents before heading back home.

Then, over Labor Day weekend, my family and I traveled out to visit with my grandparents. Our family hadn't been back there since Thanksgiving, so, it was good to be in the Hoosier State again. *smile* (A little sidenote here, I really like Indiana! Very quiet and pretty...one of the very few places I've visited and could actually say I wouldn't mind living there.) Anyways...one of the highlights of our trip was that we got to go to a college football game. (Insider info here, my little brother, Thatch, absolutely LOVES football!!)

This past weekend brought the marriage of two very dear people. Ab had the very special privilege of being one of the back-up photographers at the wedding. Once she gets her pictures up I'll give you the link.

In just two days we'll be packing our bags again for yet another wedding! This time our little 15 passenger van will take us to the great state of Texas!! I've been very psyched about this trip! I'm so looking forward to traveling to some places I'm not very familiar with. Several years ago, my brother and I went down there with my grandparents...but we only passed through a couple of the places we're going. So - I'm looking forward to it!!

Below are some pictures from my time at the conference and our visit to my grandparents' place.

Some of my friends. L~R: Anna, Bailey, Brooke and Beth During one of our breaks

All my roommates! L~R: me, Sara, Lauren, Amy and Joy

My roommate and fellow blogging friend, Sara

My roommate, Joy

One of my teammates, Jessica

Grandma, me, Grandpa

The Indianapolis Airport - SO cool!

After my family picked me up from the airport, we ate at a local pizza place. A man making different balloon figurines created this for me. He was pretty good!

Abby and Tanner

The Family

Dad, Mom and Ab

Molly-girl and me

"The Tan-Man"

Ab & Thatch during dinner

Dad - our designated driver!

"Oh, goody-goody - a post!!"

2009-08-30T23:41:00.002-05:00

Enkay, well, maybe not a great post...but still a post! *smile* Since I haven't finished my new post yet, (and since I might possibly re-write the one I do have!) this will have to suffice for the moment.

I hope you get a kick out of this! It's pretty cute.

"Sacred Singles ~ Christian Speed Dating" ;-)

Hopefully my *real* post will be up before long, until then - enjoy!

Comfort

2009-08-09T23:16:00.001-05:00

"I have been through the valley of weeping,
The valley of sorrow and pain;
But the 'God of all comfort' was with me,
At hand to uphold and sustain.

As the earth needs the clouds and sunshine,
Our souls need both sorrow and joy;
So He places us oft in the furnace,
The dross from the gold to destroy.

When he leads thro' some valley of trouble
His omnipotent hand we trace;
For the trials and sorrows He sends us,
Are part of His lessons in grace.

Oft we shrink from the purging and pruning,
Forgetting the Husbandman knows
That the deeper the cutting and paring,
The richer the cluster that grows.

Well He knows that affliction is needed;
He has a wise purpose in view,
And in the dark valley He whispers,
'Hereafter Thou'lt know what I do.'

As we travel thro' life's shadow'd valley,
Fresh springs of His love ever rise;
And we learn that our sorrows and losses,
Are blessings just sent in disguise.

So we'll follow wherever He leadeth,
Let the path be dreary or bright;
For we've proved that our God can give comfort;
Our God can give songs in the night."

Streams in the Desert

Our 4th of July Celebration!

2009-07-22T21:55:00.024-05:00

Here are those pictures that I told you were coming! *smile* To celebrate the 4th this year, we had several families over to our new home and enjoyed a cookout, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and then topped the night off with a small fireworks display. We were hoping and praying that the rainy weather would keep away - and thankfully it did! Our family enjoyed the day and hope our guests did, too!

Abigail & Molly
Darrick - enjoying a sweet ride on the tire swing

Thatcher

Volleyball - way to dive for that ball!

My brother Griff with his wife, Bek, and little girl, Chloe

L-R: Gabriel, Ab, Darrick, Jonathan, and Craig

Emma Rose

Molly

Mom & Mrs. S.

Caleb & Christine - such a happy couple!

L-R: Bethanie, Cassie, me, Alyssa, Karie, and Sherilyn

Lindsey & Bre

A couple of *cool* guys

Isaiah, Griff, and Bek

Darrick & Abby

Justin - being Justin

He had two ropes with flames on the end...

FIREWORKS

When...

2009-07-17T17:00:00.002-05:00

When I don’t think I can make it, He holds me up…

“…Thy right hand upholds me.” ~ Psalm 63:8

When I am insecure, He is my Rock…

“He only is my Rock…” ~ Psalm 62:2

When I am troubled, or sad, He is my Refuge…

“My refuge is in God…” ~ Psalm 62:7

When I need correction or direction, He is my Shepherd…

“The LORD is my Shepherd…” ~ Psalm 23:1

When I need some place to go, He is my Shelter…

“For Thou hast been a shelter for me…” ~ Psalm 61:3

When I need help not to be worried, to not think about things, or be bothered about something, He helps me…

“Because Thou hast been my help…” ~ Psalm 63:7

When I am saddened and hurt, He is my Comforter…

“I, even I, am He that comforts you…” ~ Isaiah 51:12

When I need might, He is my Strength…

“…He is their strength…” ~ Psalm 37:39

When I need to rest, He is my Resting Place…

“Rest in the LORD…” ~ Psalm 37:7

When I am concerned about the direction in my life, He orders my steps…

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD…” ~ Psalm 37:23

When I don’t see this or that as being good or think God isn’t good, He is…

“O taste and see that the LORD is good…” ~ Psalm 34:8

When I don’t think He hears, He does…

“The righteous cry, and the LORD hears them…” ~ Psalm 34:17

When I feel alone, He is with me...

"Fear thou not, for I am with thee..." ~Isaiah 41:10

Our little Chloe girl!

2009-07-07T10:54:00.003-05:00

Here's a recent picture of my little niece enjoying a day at the pool! She's almost 7 months old.

2009-07-07T01:02:00.004-05:00

Happy 4th of July!

*more pictures to follow of our holiday weekend*

Tea with you!

2009-06-26T11:22:00.005-05:00

Hello my blogging friends!

So much has been going on lately! Between packing, moving, settling, cleaning, graduations, the Basic Seminar, soccer, volleyball, CHEF conference, Father's Day, life still goes on. (It has to fit in there somewhere, right?!) Yes, all of the above has been our lives for the past month. It's definitely been a whirlwind, but we know that things will eventually slow down....a little bit.

So, I'm just going to have "tea with you" to give you a small run-down of the things which have occurred in our lives.

As all of you are aware, my family recently moved into a new rental house located on some acreage out in the country (yet close to city life!). We have really noticed a lot of wildlife around us. So far, we've seen snakes, deer (they like to greet us sometimes when we get home), foxes, a coyote, a resident cat, a Crane, an assortment of strange insects, and turkeys. In short--country! We've also had the...ah-hem...*pleasure* of discovering lots of poison ivy around here. I believe Thatch is the only one to have really experienced the excitement of some of those red dots. Within this next week, we are going to try to buckle down and get some more things accomplished around here. For instance: pictures hung on the wall, more boxes unpacked, finding a place for all that misceallaneous stuff, along with some outside work like killing those pesky weeds.

Between packing, moving and settling in, we have also been trying to move the rest of our belongings from our other home and preparing it for the new tenants. This, of course, includes: cleaning, minor repairs, mulching and carpet cleaning. And, to my mom's great delight...we can finally say, "WE'RE FINISHED!!"

I also mentioned that we attended the Basic Seminar. If any of you are unfamiliar with Dr. Bill Gothard or IBLP (Institue in Basic Life Principles), you may visit their website via the provided link. My siblings and I, my brother & sister-in-law, along with several friends attended the Seminar locally. It was great! I have attended two other Basic Seminar's during the course of my life, but neither one of them made the impression that this one did. First, when you're 12 years old, you really haven't lived much life. Secondly, the last time I attended, it just didn't sink in. Now, I actually came away excited about some things. I enjoyed learning some "new things", and I hope that I will strive to apply all that I was able to hear.

Between graduations & receptions, volleyball & soccer, we recently traveled over to the CHEF home school conference in St. Louis, Missouri. We make it an annual trip. The list of speakers for this year's conference included: Doug Phillips, Norm Wakefield and Voddie Baucham. Strangely, I never attended any of Mr. Baucham's sessions. However, I did have the privilege of hearing him speak last year, so I know he was good--even without going to his sessions this year!

Well, thanks for reading! Until next time, adieu!

Some pictures from our move!

2009-06-11T13:50:00.023-05:00

Okay, I'm finally posting some pictures! Here are some from our recent move. We had perfect weather and wonderful workers! Thank you all!

Boxes, boxes, boxes!

Loading up
Dad & Thatch

Ab & Dad

Me & Erin

Dr. G.

Mrs. G.

Paul

Nathaniel

Jack

Mary~Kate

David...and little friend *smile*

Jesse with quite the catch! *wink*

Tan-Man

Lunch break!

Stephen...fun times

Yes....ALL of that is ours!!

Miss Molly

Ab enjoying her refreshing drink

We tried our best to keep a secret....but looks like it's out now! *smile*

After a long day's work

Why Dost Thou Worry Thyself?

2009-06-02T00:00:00.002-05:00

"This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing"

Isaiah 28:12

Why dost thou worry thyself? What use can thy fretting serve? Thou art on board a vessel which thou couldst not steer even if the great Captain put thee at the helm, of which thou couldst not so much as reef a sail, yet thou worriest as if thou wert captain and helmsman. Oh, be quiet; God is Master!

Dost thou think that all this din and hurly-burly that is abroad betokens that God has left His throne?

No, man, His coursers rush furiously on, and His chariot is the storm; but there is a bit between their jaws, and He holds the reins, and guides them as He wills! Jehovah is Master yet; believe it; peace be unto thee! be not afraid. --C. H. Spurgeon

"Tonight, my soul, be still and sleep;
The storms are raging on God's deep--
God's deep, not thine; be still and sleep.

"Tonight, my soul, be still and sleep;
God's hands shall still the tempter's sweep--
God's hands, not thine; be still and sleep.

"Tonight, my soul, be still and sleep;
God's love is strong while night hours creep--
God's love, not thine; be still and sleep.

"Tonight, my soul, be still and sleep;
God's heaven will comfort those who weep--
God's heaven, not thine; be still and sleep."

I entreat you, give no place to despondency. This is a dangerous temptation--a refined, not a gross temptation of the adversary. Melancholy contracts and withers the heart, and renders it unfit to receive the impressions of grace. It magnifies and gives a false coloring to objects, and thus renders your burdens too heavy to bear. God's designs regarding you, and His methods of bringing about these designs, are infinitely wise. --Madame Guyon

~Streams in the Desert~

You need to check this out!

2009-05-27T11:36:00.003-05:00

Piano & cello rendition of "Love Story" performed by Jon Schmidt

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v3d6SFcDys

Where in the world am I, anyway?

2009-05-12T23:43:00.004-05:00

Hello my friends!

I think my post title basically says it all! Talk about being neglectful...is there a blogging award for that?! Yes, in case you have wondered as to where I've been (and if I was ever coming back!), I am writing now to give you some sort of clue that I am still here. I think the biggest excuse I have is that I keep putting it off! (So lame, huh?!)

Even though this is not a *real* post, I will give you just a small glimpse into my life, right now.

Lately, besides the norm and getting over sickness, we have been packing for the upcoming move into our new home. Fortunately, we will be able to move over boxes and our belongings in gradual stages. The agenda this week includes: packing at our present house, giving the future house a thorough cleaning, mowing the yard, and removing wallpaper in the dining room there.

*An interesting side note. When we went over to get the keys from the renter, we discovered that the riding lawn mower, which he was going to allow us to use, had been stolen!

Today, Mom & I stopped over at Lowe's to look at paint prices and swatches. We have both decided that there are waaayyyy too many options - so many different hues! On a fun note, I may have found a certain brown color for one of the walls in my new bedroom! I'm still considering the option of painting the other three walls another color since I'm a little uneasy about going so very dark.

See...I told you it would be a small glimpse! *smile* But, hopefully before too long, I will be posting a *real* post! I have yet to get the answers for my mom's birthday quiz, and two more birthdays have since taken place and I haven't even BEGUN to work on those! Oh well....hopefully soon!

It was for you, He died...

2009-04-14T20:14:00.007-05:00

"We are not saved from sin by trusting in anything we have done. The only means of eternal salvation is through placing our trust in what Jesus did for us on the cross, when He died in our place."

~~~~~

"Through Jesus' sinless life, His death on Calvary as the sinner's substitute, and His victorious resurrection, we can be fully forgiven for all our sin, we can be reconciled to the God we have offended, and we can have the power to live holy lives."

~Nancy Leigh DeMoss

~~~~~

“Sin, a little thing? It girded the Redeemer's head with thorns, and pierced His heart! It made Him suffer anguish, bitterness, and woe. Could you weigh the least sin in the scales of eternity, you would fly from it as from a serpent, and abhor the least appearance of evil. Look upon all sin as that which crucified the Saviour, and you will see it to be "exceeding sinful."

~Charles H. Spurgeon

Okay, okay....

2009-04-06T11:47:00.004-05:00

No...I haven't forgotten about my little blog! (Although, I certainly have my moments!) Hopefully I can get something posted here within these next couple of weeks.

I do have some some piece of news to share, though. Our family is moving! We came across another rental located out in the country about 25 minutes from our current residence. We will not have actual possession until May 1st, but we have already begun the task of packing. (Fun-fun!)

The living room carpet has been somewhat singed, so the owner has agreed to replace that before we move in, as well as cleaning up the house.

One of the many nice features about our new home is that, even though it's a rental, we have been allowed to paint it any color we want! Nothing like personalizing your space, right? Right now I'm trying to figure out what color I will choose for my bedroom. It's a toss between brown or red! Any suggestions? The two main colors which I currently have in my room are reds & golds. But, I also have some black tables/decor and also dark, colored wood.

Stay tuned!!

Happy Birthday!

2009-03-20T23:21:00.004-05:00

I'm finally getting to this post--even though it's been close to a month since Mom celebrated her birthday! I'm going to follow the same suit for this post like I did for Abby's birthday. That's right! Time for another quiz!

1. What is Roxie's favorite color?

2. What is one thing Roxie LOVES to do?

3. What is Roxie's favorite food?

4. What is Roxie's favorite season?

5. What is Roxie's favorite music?

6. What is Roxie's favorite Starbuck's drink?

7. What is Roxie's favorite Bible verse?

Happy Birthday, Mom!!!

We all love you so much!!!

2009-03-17T20:48:00.002-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

Posting!

2009-03-11T23:03:00.002-05:00

Yes, I guess you might say I've had a "leave of absence" from my blog, lately. It's mostly because I keep forgetting! I don't know what's been wrong with me lately--I keep forgetting things! This past weekend while we were in the basement talking, I suddenly realized that March 9th, (which was scheduled for our girls' book study), was on Monday, and I still had to read my book! (Not a hard read, but still had to get it done.) I guess it creeped up on me. THEN...last night I realized that I had forgotten about something I had to do for this week's Good News Club. Am I losing my brain or what?! Last week was very busy for me...and I can't remember about the week before that...oh-yes I do! (There's still hope!) It was very busy too. Shew! I will get a post up before too long....we had another birthday! *smile*

Talk to you soon!

Yes...

2009-02-25T12:20:00.003-06:00

I'm already "decorating" for St. Patrick's Day! But, it is actually one of my favorite holidays. (You're thinking, "St. Patrick's Day?") Well, yes! Maybe it's because I'm quite proud that I've got some Irish blood running through my veins because of my Irish heritage and I can truly enjoy this day to celebrate Irish things. Now, it's not like my grandparents arrived on a boat, but I do have that ancestory. So, why not enjoy it?

Age

2009-02-20T13:47:00.005-06:00

So, do you know who she is? Not only is she Boo from the movie Monster's Inc...but she is also rather young looking, isn't she? I have the incredible knack for making people think I am very young simply because I look it. Recently, I cut my hair pretty short which seemed to make my "youth" become more aged looking. Recently, however, a lady asked my mom what grade I was in. So much for that! *smile*

Miss Chloe

2009-02-17T17:35:00.003-06:00

She's smiling!

She's already 9 pounds!

Sickness...

2009-02-16T18:11:00.007-06:00

Yes, sickness. Isn't it that time of year again? At present, I don't think I could agree with Andy Williams when he sings the lines to that famous song, "It's the most wonderful time of the year!" *smile* The bug has hit all of our family except my dad. We've had different strains of it. First, the little insect infected two members of our family with the flu; then, it manifested itself in nautiousness, aches and cramps in another member; now, it is attacking some more people in the form of colds. I happen to be one of those people...and I am discovering how uncomfortable a cold can make you feel. Oh well, it will soon leave and we'll feel like ourselves again.

On Saturday, we celebrated Valentine's Day by having a nice breakfast, at which we received Valentines from my parents. Part of the menu included Chocolate Filled Breakfast Crescents which my mom made, and if you haven't ever tried them before, they are delicious! (Just click on the name and it will take you directly to the recipe!)

My parents also went out that evening and had dinner for just the two of them. The rest of us stayed home and enjoyed pizza and some movies. Pizza is always a winner in our family!

2009-02-13T23:07:00.001-06:00

Have A Lovely Valentine's Day!!!

Q & A

2009-02-09T15:16:00.002-06:00

Last week, I asked you all what you thought Molly's favorite dessert is...and here's the answer! Cheesecake!! She absolutely loves it! In fact, she says she almost can't contain herself when there's cheesecake around. *smile*

Thanks for guessing, girls!

2009-02-07T21:43:00.002-06:00

Well, I'm taking the plunge (for now anyways!) and writing on my online journal. As I write, I am pretty...uhh...I don't know what words I should use to best describe how I feel...worn out? Some of the gang decided to play soccer this afternoon and I am now feeling the effects of it all! I don't remember experiencing this when we played last time, which was shortly after Christmas. And I don't really feel like I did much more than usual...I certainly didn't run up and down the field, although I did run; and I didn't score any goals. So, I don't know why! Oh well, we just have to sometimes!

Mom has been feeling better today. She had been feeling achy and was laying low for a couple of days. Albeit strange, this flu bug has been making its rounds every five days. At least in our family! So, we're expecting somebody to come down with it tomorrow. Hmmm...I'm wondering if it will be me! Yikes! As long as I don't get a migraine, I'll be okay...well, somewhat. I just don't like migraines.

Well, I guess I'll sign off for now!

I know, rather short, but it was something! *smile*

What a face!

2009-02-06T01:03:00.002-06:00

Here is a recent snapshot of Chloe...isn't it hysterical?! *smile*

2009-02-04T13:24:00.005-06:00

"Although the Christian life has warfare, it is warfare in which victory is always possible."

~John MacArthur

"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death."

Romans 8:2

Another birthday girl!

2009-02-03T22:05:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday, Miss Molly!!! You have now lived one decade!!! *smile*

Okay, blog readers and friends, I have one question for you to answer: what is one dessert that Molly absolutely LOVES?

More to come!

2009-02-03T12:23:00.004-06:00

I haven't done a very good job of blogging, lately. ("Lately" meaning for the past month and a half!) I do have a couple of entries to make, but I just haven't gotten to it yet. So, stay tuned!

You know, I realize that a blog is the online place for cyber-space journaling. But, I don't really feel like I do that much. All I do is just highlight the highlights of my family and I! Rarely do I write. I guess I'll have to try doing that more.

Lately, we have been battling sickness among our family. It's a 24 hour flu-bug. First Molly, then Tanner and now possibly my mom, have all gotten it. Fortunately, it only sticks around for a short time. It's a 5 day cycle. Molly got it last Saturday, then Tanner got it on Thursday, and now my mom has it today. We were kind of targeting this day as the next time for it to hit!

I'll post more later!

Testing-testing, 1-2-3

2009-01-26T21:08:00.004-06:00

Well, down below are the answers to Abby's birthday quiz. How did you do? My congratulations to the one who got a great score on this...although, I must confess I don't have any type of an award for you! *smile* Guess it's just the satisfaction of a quiz well done! *smile & wink*

So, without further adieu, I give you Miss Abby's answers:

Question #1. What is Abby's favorite color?

Answer: Blue

Question #2. What is one thing that Abby LOVES to do?

Answer: Take pictures

Question #3. What is Abby's favorite food?

Answer: Pizza

Question #4. What is Abby's favorite season?

Answer: Spring

Question #5. What is Abby's favorite music?

Answer: Christian. A variety, but not rap or heavy rock Christian

Question #6. What is Abby's favorite Bible verse?

Answer: I have many

Thank you girls for taking the time to complete this quiz!

Look who's 17!!!

2009-01-16T22:03:00.007-06:00

You guessed it....ABBY!!! She just had a birthday this past Saturday and is totally lovin' 17! I thought I might do something a little different this year, something which my blog readers will be able to participate in. Once you think you've figured out the answers, submit them in the comment area and at the end of the week, we'll see who got the most right.

So with that, I'll begin:

17th Birthday Quiz

1. What is Abby's favorite color?

2. What is one thing that Abby LOVES to do?

3. What is Abby's favorite food?

4. What is Abby's favorite season?

5. What is Abby's favorite music?

6. What is Abby's favorite Bible verse?

Happy Birthday, Miss Abby!!!! We all love you!!!

Picture Tag

2009-01-11T17:18:00.006-06:00

My friend, Abbi, tagged me in a picture tag!

Here are the rules:

1. Choose the 4th folder where you store pictures on your computer.

2. Select the 4th picture in the folder.

3. Explain the picture.

4. Tag four people to do the same.

5. No cheating (cropping, editing, etc.)

This picture was taken at our church after lunch, one Sunday. The little boy having fun is sometimes refferred to as "Pee-Wee" and the little girl is Joy. Yes, I know, totally random! *smile* But that's what makes the tag! *smile*

I hereby tag:
Tori
Bryant
Abby
Nikki

Recipes anyone?

2009-01-07T15:47:00.010-06:00

Hello dear blog readers!

Since I am on the lookout for a great lasagna recipe at present, I thought I would enlist your help. If you have a delicious, spectacular lasagna recipe, would you mind passing it along to me? It must seem very funny that I should need one since it is such a popular food choice, but I don't. There's always the cookbook, but I would like to have it from an actual person. Someone who loves their recipe.*smile*

I'm also looking for some superb tasting side dishes, but nothing too extravagant.

And before you think that we don't cook around here, allow me to clarify. Our menu is in desperate need of some pizazz & zing...in other words, uh-hemm, SOMETHING NEW. We've pretty much exhausted the recipes that we have and it's time for something fresh. Hence, that's why I am on the hunt for new, great tasting recipes!

Thanks for all your help!

Blog Award

2009-01-01T18:08:00.005-06:00

My friend, Tori, over at Dare to be Different, has awarded me a blogging award! Thank you, Tori!

I now award this trophy to my friends, Ab, Sara & Abbi,

over at ANM's Page

Simply Sanctified and Dear Abbi.

The two rules are:

1. Let people know that they have been awarded by commenting on their blogs
2. Let the person who awarded you know when your award post is up!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T18:06:00.002-06:00

Happy January 1st, 2009!!!!

Chloe

2008-12-28T00:05:00.019-06:00

Hey there! Just posting some pictures of Chloe and fam! (These really aren't in order, so please keep that in mind while you're browsing.)

Griff, Bek and Chloe

She's there somewhere! *smile*
Sleeping

Is that a smile?

She's awake!!

Daddy, what did you do?

Momma and Chloe

It snowed the day Chloe arrived

Both grandmas are trying to get some sleep in the waiting room, early Tuesday morning.

She's here!!!

Chloe Lauren

Aunt Rachel

We were all in the hall making phone calls!!

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-12-27T14:57:00.004-06:00

Happy 1st Birthday....to my blog!!! One year ago today I officially joined the blogosphere and have enjoyed it so much! I'm kind of stealing this idea from the Wissmanns, but if you wouldn't mind leaving me a comment telling me who you are and how you found my blog, I would love to hear from you! Thank you! I think I'll go blow out my candles now...

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-24T12:13:00.002-06:00

Have a very Merry Christmas, everyone!

The most totally, absolutely THRILLING NEWS OF THE YEAR!!!!!

2008-12-16T21:18:00.004-06:00

Guess who graced us with her presence this morning? My new little niece! She is so precious and we all love her so much!! More pictures will be coming, but for now, take a peek at our little bundle of joy,

Chloe Lauren

5 lbs. 6oz. 19 in.

Maine #2

2008-12-09T18:04:00.006-06:00

Here are some more snapshots of Maine during my parents' trip. Enjoy!

Yay!!

2008-12-09T17:44:00.001-06:00

The reason why I'm throwing confetti everywhere right now is because I am FINALLY able to log in to Blogger on our main computer!!!! Yes!

2008-12-06T04:46:00.006-06:00

Who is Leading?

"O Lord , I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps" (Jer. 10:23).

"Lead me in a plain path" (Ps. 27:14).

Many people want to direct God, instead of resigning themselves to be directed by Him; to show Him a way, instead of passively following where He leads.

--Madame Guyon

I said: "Let me walk in the field";

God said: 'Nay, walk in the town";

I said: "There are no flowers there";

He said: "No flowers, but a crown."

I said: "But the sky is black,

There is nothing but noise and din";

But He wept as He sent me back,

"There is more," He said, "there is sin

I said: "But the air is thick,

And fogs are veiling the sun";

He answered: "Yet souls are sick,

And souls in the dark undone."

I said: "I shall miss the light,

And friends will miss me, they say";

He answered me, "Choose tonight,

If I am to miss you, or they."

I pleaded for time to be given;

He said: "Is it hard to decide?

It will not seem hard in Heaven

To have, followed the steps of your Guide."

I cast one look at the fields,

Then set my face to the town;

He said: "My child, do you yield?

Will you leave the flowers for the crown?"

Then into His hand went mine,

And into my heart came He;

And I walk in a light Divine,

The path I had feared to see.

--George MacDonald

~Streams in the Desert~

Tanner's birthday!

2008-12-01T22:50:00.011-06:00

Here are some pictures of Tanner's birthday celebration. Since Tann enjoys making short films, we decided to use that as a springboard and decorate the birthday table in movie memorabilia.

Having fun with the decor!

Just having fun!

Thatcher

The Birthday Boy and Molly

Make a wish!

Classic!

The Uber Award

2008-11-30T20:27:00.008-06:00

Hey there! Well, I am so happy to announce that I just receieved my very first blog award!! Yay!! My friends, Tori, and Nikki, just honored me with it. *smile*

The rules are:
1. Put the logo on your blog or post
2. Nominate blogs that you think are super.
3.Let them know that they have received this Uber Amazing reward by commenting on their blog.
4. Share the love and link to this post and to the person you received your award from.

The blogs I wish to present this Uber Award to are as follows:

1. Dear Abbi

2. Pictures, Scriptures, and Lyrics

3. Simply Sanctified

4. Blogging Beth

5. Converse Kat

6. Dare to be Different

7. Nikki's Notes

8. Ab's Spot

9. Him Whom I Have Not Seen, I Love

10. Running In High-heeled Shoes

11. I Will Give You the Rain

12. Greenlee Family Living

13. Megan Spilker Photography

Christmas Time Is Here!!!

2008-11-30T20:17:00.002-06:00

Well, you can finally say it...Christmas time is here!!!

2008-11-26T10:36:00.003-06:00

Have a Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!

Maine!

2008-11-20T22:19:00.012-06:00

A few weeks ago, my parents decided to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary, by flying up to Maine for their very own special, getaway! Neither one had been there since 1999, when my parents and Molly went for my dad's business trip, (not neccessarily for a 'leisure' trip). They really enjoyed it then, and decided to travel back again. Mom didn't know how the colors would be since their "peak" had already passed. But, to us midwesterner's, their peak is like ten times better than ours, so, even though it was past, the color was gorgeous! My parents found a little bed & breakfast, via the Internet, to stay at while visiting. They also enjoyed a lot of seafood! (My parents thought the Clam Chowder was delicious!) *smile* They both had a wonderful time and enjoyed getting away.

Below are some pictures from their trip. I may do a couple installments, so stay tuned...

Hmmm...how would you like to have that staring you in the face?

Yes, he was actually playing the bagpipes! Cool!

The Tann-Man

2008-11-11T21:14:00.005-06:00

Well, another birthday has come and gone at our household! Saturday, November 1st, Tanner turned 15 years old! One thing I remember about Tanner's birth, is my mom holding on to the back of our dining room chair on October 31st--she was in labor. Today, Tanner is now about my dad's height (which he loves)! Tann is a very creative, inovative young man who enjoys playing basketball, soccer, making "movies", creating images on the computer, and becoming more like a man every day!

We love you, Tann!

Happy Birthday!

I'm here!

2008-11-09T23:14:00.004-06:00

Yes, still alive and still well! I will be writing a post soon and updating this blog, since it's getting a little boring to me. Something new and fresh is on it's way! (Although, I really don't know what background, yet!) So, just stay tuned!

PBS Poll

2008-10-30T23:58:00.004-05:00

Hey, fellow McCain-Palin supporters! Someone sent this information to me, I voted, and now I'm passing along the instructions so YOU can follow suit! Just read the instructions below!

"PBS has an online poll posted, asking if Sarah Palin is qualified. Apparently, the Left wing knew about this in advance and are flooding the voting with "no" votes. The poll will be reported on

PBS and picked up by mainstream media. It can influence undecided voters in swing states.

Please do 2 things:

1) Click on the link and vote YES!Here's the link: www.pbs.org/now/polls/poll-435.html
Inform every McCain-Palin supporter that you know about this poll.

Sweet success!!

2008-10-22T22:14:00.006-05:00

That's how it is right now, folks! Sweet success! I have had two of the most productive days this last week. It's great! I've been very motivated. Hence, I'm going to list everything I was able to accomplish.

Enkay, here we go!

Day 1

1. Got up earlier

2. Read the chapter for that day in my Bible study book for church

3. Put all my summer clothes away in the container

4. Put all my winter clothes in the closet

5. Did 3 loads of laundry

6. Made supper

7. Cleaned up the kitchen

8. Practiced some music on the piano

9. Dusted my room

10. Vacuumed my room

11. Played a board game with Molly

12. Dressed up more; "fixed" my hair; and put on make-up. (Not always part of the daily routine!)

13. Tidied up my music books

14. Caused 3 power outages because of my vacuuming! *smile*

Day 2

1. Cleaned the kitchen

2. Made pizza crust, which was going to be for our lunch (however, no cheese!)

3. Baked cookies

4. Swept the kitchen floor

5. Made bread

6. Showered

7. Babysat for neighbors

8. Did a load of laundry

9. Went bowling with some friends

10. Played the piano

It's great being productive and getting so much done! I'm also not drinking any milk for this week. (I really like it and will eat something sweet so I can drink milk! However, it causes me to break out!)

Below are some pictures of the pile of my summer stuff and then my *new* closet! It really needed to be tended to. My clothes were getting very out of hand. *smile

Lacey's Corner

Sweet as sugar

Just a thought

Bow the Knee- Paige Brumley/Stonebriar Community Church Choir/Orchestra

We're excited!!

Breaking radio silence

Stubborn Love

No Limits.m4v

Can you guess?

Don your birthday hat!

Down Under...

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming...

Aloha!

2011: A New Year

Guess

We Need A Little Christmas Right This Very Minute!

Highlights From My Trip

Letter to Home

Family Time

Awwww!

Incredible Thought

This, That, and the Other

All the Way

Summer goin' by too fast?

Busy?

My, my, my....

More to come!

Of rice and cell phones...

???

A Blast From the Past

GREECE

She's growing up!

Sick & tired?

Lamb of God

Peanut Butter Toffee Cheesecake Brownies

Go green...

Dear me...

England!

Bon Voyage!

Around the World in Eighty Days

Birthday Time!

It's her birthday...

Fancy Chloe!

Happy Birthday!

Merry Christmas!

AbbyNoellePhotography

Texas Time

God's Love

*Highlight*

Here I am!

"Oh, goody-goody - a post!!"

Comfort

Our 4th of July Celebration!

When...

Our little Chloe girl!

Tea with you!

Some pictures from our move!

Why Dost Thou Worry Thyself?

You need to check this out!

Where in the world am I, anyway?

It was for you, He died...

Okay, okay....

Happy Birthday!

Posting!

Yes...

Age

Miss Chloe

Sickness...

Q & A

What a face!

Another birthday girl!

More to come!

Testing-testing, 1-2-3

Look who's 17!!!

Picture Tag

Recipes anyone?

Blog Award

Happy New Year!!!

Chloe

Happy Birthday!!!

Highlight