Life While I'm Waiting

Four more weeks, St. Patrick's Day and Nashville

2012-03-06T22:54:00.000-05:00

Four weeks and counting until I get my hands on my Illinois grandkids. Missing them lots.

easter eggs to hunt

pools to swim in

movies to watch

books to read

playgrounds to play on

family to love on

Does it get any better than this?

*************************************

I made a few St. Patricks Day decorations this weekend.

I actually made this gingerbread house at Christmas. My first one

made from scratch. I didn't have the heart to get rid of it after

Christmas season and since it had hearts on it, I thought it made a good

Valentines house. Well, with a little green paint and a very small

leprechaun I think I'll get one more use out of it.

So happy to have one more use out of it.

(Of course, there's always Easter)

:-)

I made the garland out of shamrock felt cut outs (Jo Ann Fabrics) and fishing line.

Frames from Hobby Lobby, craft paper and shamrock stickers

and I can put a little "luck" through out the house.

Fun Friday

2012-03-05T22:30:00.004-05:00

We had a fun and action packed Friday. I was lucky enough to have the

opportunity to watch my nieces and nephews for a few hours.

I picked up Dylan so he could play with his

cousins and off we went to their house. It was alot of fun and
we were even able to fit in an art project. I have to say we have
quite the budding artists in our family.

They take their art seriously around here.

Dylan absolutely loves his Meron.

And what would an afternoon of fun be without Easter Little Debbies.

Ta da da da!! The finished project. They did such a great job.

What's Fun Friday without a little bit of craziness.

Thanks Jessica and Nick for giving me the afternoon with the kids. We had a great time
and I'm already looking forward to next time.

***************************************

Our fun time continued when Dylan came home with me for a sleepover. He was pretty tired
after a busy day so it was dinner, bubble bath, movie (Toy Story of course), books and bed.

Thanks for a great visit sweet boy.

Thankful for:

606. an afternoon with some of my favorite family.
607. nutella and banana sandwiches.
608. creative kids.
609. backyard tree houses.
610. sweet smiles.

Project 5 and Wound Honey

2012-03-01T16:12:00.002-05:00

I decided to practice with a little project while I'm waiting on some

supplies for week three and four of the class. I wasn't happy with the way

decoupage flowers were turning out so I think I'm going to try to draw and paint

them in on my next project. I decided to practice just doing flowers.

It reminded me of Gail (SIL) so it made it's way to her house.

She's always loved the color orange and now I do too.

*****************************

Also, I want to give a big thank you to Jennifer Kindle of The Kindle Crew.

She had a giveaway for Wound Honey and I was the lucky winner.

Wound Honey is a 100 % natural from New Zealand. It has anti-bacterial properties

that aid in the healing of wounds, cuts, burns and even MRSA infected wounds.

It also soothes pain.

I'm almost looking forward to getting a cut to see how it works.

Almost!

Thanks so much Jennnifer.

Click on her link above to check out her very popular blog.

She's very inspiring.

You can find out more about Wound Honey on this link.

Thankful for:

599. GNO to celebrate birthdays.

600. 22 years of girls night out with the same "girls".

601. Mrs. LeBreton is doing okay.

602. the color orange.

603. water.

604. women brave enough to share their story to help others.

605. my new tube of wound honey.

Still Waiting

2012-02-28T09:44:00.004-05:00

   ******* The girls have been sponsored.   *******

               There are still about 10 kids at Fond Blanc that need families, visit
                         http://fondlyblanc.wordpress.com/ to learn more.

My niece, Jessica, along with her small group from church are finding sponsors for a number of children at Fond Blanc in Haiti. Sponsors have been found for all but two girl. Sisters Kerline and Mouncheca.

Every day, these sweet sisters struggle for the basics. Each day, they wake up without the security of basic necessities like food. The pastor who takes care of them along with 40 other orphaned children told Jessica that they usually only have enough food for one meal a day. They are very greatful for that one meal because somedays there is

just not enough money and their one meal consists of sugar water and a piece of bread.

Please visit Jessica's blog to find out more about Fond Blanc and these two sisters.

For those of you who have access to any type of social media, please consider passing

this along.

If you would like to consider sponsoring one or both sisters, you can email Jessica

directly at jirvin79@gmail.com.

I know many of you out there may not be in the position to act right now because times are hard. Then please take the time today to pray that someone will step up for these two girls. Tomorrow their names go back without sponsorship.

Blessings

Multitudes on Mondays

2012-02-27T22:18:00.000-05:00

Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes on Mondays picture

Remembering to be greatful in all things

Thankful for:

585. time to finish a project for my class.

586. much needed rain.

587. the will power to do without soda (day six).

588. phone time with Janet.

589. a visit with my Mom this weekend.

590. home cooked meals.

591. my husband's homemade lemonade.

592. park time with Dylan.

593. a church with a servant's heart.

594. grace.

595. special k vanilla almond cereal.

596. communion at church.

597. feeling loved.

598. friends who offer sweet compliments.

What are you thankful for?

Mardi Gras and Lent

2012-02-22T20:38:00.015-05:00

We aren't big on celebrating Mardi Gras but we do have some pretty

great memories of it. Let me explain.

My best friend lives in Mobile, Alabama.

Did you know that the Mardi Gras parades actually originated there?

We've been to visit her numerous times during Mardi Gras.I

For those of you who have ever been to Mobile, well lets just say January and February

(when Mardi Gras happens) are good months to visit. It can get pretty hot and humid.

We even went to New Orleans once for a parade.

(I didn't care for that trip but that's a different story)

The parades that we went to in Mobile where a little more family friendly.

They not only throw beads, they through moon pies.

(and who from the south doesn't like orange or banana moon pies)

Mostly what I think about when I hear Mardi Gras are the fun

times with Janet and her family just visiting, cooking,

going to the beach and and shopping in Fairhope.

We did find this really cute flag in Mobile. The have entire

stores dedicated to Mardi Gras decorations.

So every year (if were not visiting) we put up our flag and remember

all our adventures.

I decided to get Mike a King Cake this year. First time!

It was yummy. Think cheese danish with sprinkle sugar on top.

................... and that brings me to Lent

For Lent I've decided to give up soda (regular and diet), fast food (with the exception of veggie subs and chargrilled chicken sandwiches) and ice-cream in all forms (milk shakes, gelato, italian ices etc...) I'm writing it down to keep me accountable. Soda will be the hardest for me because I drink at least one or two or more a day.  And yes I know that it's bad for me and is probably the major cause of my, shall we say weight issues.   I know it will be hard. I want it to be hard. It's suppose to be a sacrifice.

This year I've also decided to do a "random act of kindness" for a different person for each of the 40 days leading up to Easter. I was inspired by an awesome blogger Laura who spent the days leading up to Christmas doing this. I'm going to find a way each day to lift up someone. It could be be a notecard, a phone call, an email, a letter, a gift. It doesn't really matter what it is, but to let someone know they're making a difference in my life.

And lastly I'm going to be doing 40 bags in 40 days. Maybe you've seen it on Pinterest or on another blog. I saw this last year (can't remember where) and then again today on The Larson Lingo. Basically purging your house of treasures you don't need or use and donating to a worthy cause.   Goodwill, Homeless Shelters, Adoption garage sales, any number of places that will be able to make good use of the gentlely used items that most of us have. To hold myself accountable I'm going to post pictures. I find that I accomplish more than I set out to do when I'm accountable for it. I know my husband will love this. The man hates clutter even though he is what some might call a collector and others might say accumulator.

                                             Anyone else interested?
I pray to be purposeful with my time to connect with God and be aware of his presence and to honor him in my life daily, especially during Lent.

Blessings

Project 4, A Portrait

2012-02-19T17:00:00.001-05:00

I've just finished Project 4, which brings to an end Week 2 in my Creatively Made online class. I'm so greatful that we have about 3 months to finish a four week course because I'm behind. This project
was a portrait using mixed media. I used a 12 x 12 canvas, white and clear gesso, graphite pencils, acrylic paints, antiquing stain, chalk pencils and the flowers I got online. Next time I do one similar to this I will definitely cut out most of the dark green leaves. I'm not thrilled about how that came out but I guess that the object. Trail and error. Any way, for the most part, I'm happy with the end result.

Meet Grace.

*************************************

It's been a relaxing weekend that is coming to quickly to an end.

Ryan gifted Mike with a ticket to join him at Megacom Saturday afternoon.

This is the second year he has joined Ryan. For those of you

who don't know what that is, it's a convention for all things,

Super Heros, Star Trek, Star Wars, Zombies, comics etc.

If you've ever seen The Big Bang Theory, then you pretty much get the idea.

Mike really enjoyed the time with Ryan and Austin (Amber's son).

Below are a few of the pictures that I'm willing to post.

************************************

Dylan popped by on the way home from his Valentine Party at preschool

to show my his face painting. His crocodile.

Thankful for:

586. girl scout thin mint cookies.

587. a relaxing weekend.

588. laundry washed, folded and put away.

589. several long walks with Mike.

590. crocodiles.

591. being at peace about job decisions.

592. a little time shopping with Melissa this weekend.

593. hot chocolate.

594. days without needing air-conditioning.

595. the cardinal that flies around our house.

596. Kobe, who sits at the window looking for Mike when he goes outside.

597. conventions for boys.

598. time alone to work on an art project.

What are you thankful for?

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-15T10:04:00.001-05:00

Thankful for:

576. tagged photos on facebook.

577. a movie date with my sweetheart.

578. texted photo's of all my grandkids on Valentine's Day.

579. chocolate.

580. a large family get-together to celebrate two birthdays that included

lots of laughs.

581. telephone conversations.

582. winter weather in Florida.

583. the Pearl Event II in March.

584. the time spent creating this weekend (when I should of been cleaning).

What are you thankful for?

Happy "Love" Day

2012-02-14T19:02:00.003-05:00

today we celebrate love

love for our sweetheart

love for our babies (grandbabies)

love for our family

love for our friends

and the greatest love of all

FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD

THAT HE GAVE

HIS ONLY
BEGOTTEN
        SON
                                          THAT WHOSOEVER
                            BELIEVETH IN HIM
                  SHALL NOT PERISH
              BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE
                                                   (John 3:16)

This is my commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.        (John 15:12)

***********************************************************

I decided to take the day off to be with my sweetheart today

Breakfast together

exchanging our tokens of love

I made Mike the little tree picture.

The print on the tree is the lyrics to our song.

(idea from pinterest)

The book is for us to read together in the evening.

His gift to me. A beautiful bracelet and

two cards. He couldn't decide so decided to get them both.

Sweet!

We went to a movie (The Vow) and had a light lunch out.

Awesome movie, not so hot lunch but they were playing

Christmas music for Valentine's Day so you have to laugh.

Well, I'm on my way to make dinner. We've had a great day.

Our love to everyone.

***************************************

We heart Valentine's Day at our house.

I got this really cute dish at Costco (on sale for 10.00)

You can use it as a candy dish, a silverware container or for flowers. Love it.

The heart garland was super easy. I bought several packages of pre-cut felt

hearts from JoAnn Fabrics (on sale for $1.49 per package). I hole punched very small

holes and strung fishing line through. I am really happy how it turned out.

I'm really gonna miss all the pink and red.

Until next year, happy heart day.

****************************************************************************

Two of my four favorite valentines

Hopefully I'll be adding two more pictures soon. :-)

Pearl Party

2012-02-11T18:01:00.001-05:00

I'm so exited to be able to attend the Pearl Event II, The Double Strand in Nashville on March 10th.

Many of you know and love Sibi of Pearls and Grace.

She has put together some amazing Christian women (listed below) along

with herself to share their stories as a source of encouragement to others.

Sibi of Pearls and Grace

Paige Knudsen of Simple Thoughts

Edie Wadsworth of Life in Grace

Sarah Cantrell

Jane Matthews

It's going to be held at Gaylord Opryland Resort. I understand there's still

35 tickets left. Go to Sibi's blog to find out more information. I'd love to see you there.

The drilling has begun

2012-02-10T21:35:00.005-05:00

The drilling of the well at Trees of Glory is underway and the first phase has been completed. After many delays (which is normal in Ethiopia) drilling rigs arrived at the CarePoint. Final geological and land surveys were completed, boring began and water was finally reached.

The second phase of the project will involve the completion of cisterns for water storage, along with pumps and pipework to make the water accessible. For the staff and kids at Trees of Glory, this is a dream come true - a definitive answer to prayer!!

For more information and pictures on the progress, Karen (sponsor co-ordinator) for Trees of Glory posted about this exciting news on her blog.

For all of you who helped with donations, thank you so much. It will make all the difference in the world to these precious children.

To God be the glory!

Thankful for

571. the drilling of TOG well has begun.

572. Amber recovering from surgery.

573. a very compassionate son.

574. the book, Made to Crave by Lysa Terkeurst.

575. free parking today.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-08T13:45:00.002-05:00

Making a difference

2012-02-07T16:18:00.021-05:00

Last week we received a letter (and Christmas card) from Muri, our little girl at Trees of Glory. We are so excited to get these little updates from her letting us know how she's doing.

There is a portion of the letter that gives them the opportunity to ask us a question.
Her question was "I am eager to see you in person". Basically, when are you coming?
I am so hopeful to go this year. I'm praying daily for God to give me the courage (I hate flying, much less flying for 20 some hours over oceans) and resources (I will no longer be working as of the end of March) to do this. But I'm feeling more encouraged all the time that it will all work out. Her request only encourages me more.

Her prayer request is for us "pray to God for her that she will be a good student".

She's pretty young so there's usually not much writing but she always draws us a little picture at the bottom. I have to say, she is really quite good to just be 6.

We have the opportunity a few times a year to send a small care package whenever
a group goes over to help at Trees of Glory and Kind Hearts (the care points from Children's Hope Chest). Below are a couple of pictures from November when Karen Wistrom (sponsor co-ordinator) and a group were last there. This is Karen's sweet daughter giving our precious Muri her little care package.

Because there is so many children, we have to condense our little packages into what you can fit in a quart or sometimes gallon size baggie. That is so hard because you want to get them so many things that you're sure that would just love or more importantly need. But it turns out what they want most are pictures of their sponsor family. Well, that and underwear.

It makes all the difference just knowing someone out there cares about them, prays for them and loves them.  These are God's precious children. I cannot stress enough how blessed we are having Muri in our lives.

If you are interested in sponsoring a child, please contact Karen Wistrom at kjwistrom@yahoo.com . At the moment, every child is sponsored, but there will be more children enrolling soon and she will then contact you immediately to match you with a child who needs a sponsor family.

Other opportunities:

My niece, Jessica's small group at church have the opportunity to help find sponsors for a care point in Haiti called Fond Blanc.   This is also through Children's Hope Chest. We all know of the great need in Haiti and this is certainly alot closer for those of you who would want to go over for a visit one day. If you interested in finding out more information on sponsoring a child in Haiti, read her blog post:
"GOD SEES DISCIPLES".

*Sponsoring a child is a great way to help an individual child by ensuring that their basic needs (food, clothing and medical care) are being met and that they have the incredible opportunity to get an education! As we all know, education is the key to a life of opportunity instead of a life trapped in grinding poverty. An education gives these kids a chance to grow up and become the future leaders of their country!

*You will also get the opportunity to send a small care package a few times a year and write your child though email once a month.

* Going on a mission trip or participating in fund raisers for projects are also great opportunities but not required.

Below are a list of links where there is an opportunity to sponsor children. We sponsor through Children's Hope Chest but the other three have very good reputations.

Children's Hope Chest

Wiphan {Widows and Orphans}

Pearl River Outreach

Eagle's Nest

Have a blessed day and remember to add me to your prayer list if you remember to help me with my courage issue.   (I think that makes me sound like the cowardly lion in Oz). ha!

                                                          Thankful for:

                                                          567. Muri
                                     568. my sweetie bringing me lunch to work
                                               569. much needed rain
                                        570. my playlist playing Amazing Grace

Project 3, Canvas on Vintage Hardware (minus the hardware) & Multitudes on Mondays

2012-02-06T10:05:00.004-05:00

The third project in the Creatively Made class was a 4" x 4" canvas on vintage hardware. I had a hard time finding the hardware in the project so I decided to just do the canvas. The object was to draw a person on a canvas done with mixed media. I drew her free hand and I think my main problem is not knowing when to stop. I'm not satisfied with her features or shadowing in the neck but all-in-all, I think I'll keep her.

Meet Joy....

Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes on Mondays picture above.
Remembering to be greatful in all things

Thankful for:

557. the eye opening sermon and awesome music this morning.

558. lunch out with my sweetie afterwards.

559. a sweet letter from Muri.

560. an opportunity to serve.

561. laundry washed, folded and put away for the week.

562. time to work on my art today.

563. a clean dog.

564. a project done for Valentine's Day.

565. a hug from my sweet great-nephew.

566. baptisms and dedications at church today.

What are you thankful for?

Other Plans

2012-02-04T21:51:00.027-05:00

When Dylan was here for a sleep-over on Friday I decided we'd try a little photo shoot to make a special Valentine for Mommy. After trying to pose him with my valentine blocks, it soon became apparent
that he had other plans for what he thought his valentine should look like. So he began to "stage" his
own picture.

And as you can tell by the look on his face, he was very happy with his end result.

What's a valentine without Zurg, good and bad Buzz and Davy Jones.

The picture below is what I originally had in mind. After 1.. or 2.. or 25.. takes, I finally

got one with him looking at the camera. But you know what, I believe

Dylan was right. The pictures above are most definitely him.

********************************

In honor of Valentines Day, we had to have a sweet pick for movie night and

what could be better for our Charlie Brown loving grandson than

the CB Valentine Special.

This is how these two can been found on most any movie night.

Hope you're all having a fun filled, family loving Valentine's month.

******************

Thankful for:

547. brother's who drops everything to help is baby sister.

548. feeling at peace with life changing plans.

549. GNO's with my best friends.

550. Bang, Bang shrimp.

551. an afternoon with our oldest granddaughter.

552. teenage girls who still love Disney Princess movie marathons.

553. a husband who did all of our floors.

554. a church that cares more about living God's word than having the nicest, biggest building.

555. coconut gelato.

556. the week full of beautiful Florida days.

February's Goals

2012-02-01T10:03:00.006-05:00

I was just going through my January posts and realized that I'm behind on 1... or 2... or 10... of my New Year's resolutions..... already. This morning I was looking at a comment that another blogger made to a blog that I love. I followed the comment to her blog and came across a post that spoke directly to my issue, not completing my long term goals. (that's one of the things I love about blogging)

Basically, she posted about giving herself a few monthly goals. I've decided to give
it a try. Oh, I'm still going to try my best to keep ~~all~~ most of my New Year's resolutions
but I'm hoping to have better luck with shorter term goals.

(image above is from google vintage valentine images)

February's Goals

Learn well, one new setting on my camera

Make two final decisions about my new business

Plan healthy dinners

Do some form of exercise daily

Finish week two and week three assignments in my e-course, Creatively Made

Read one book of the bible

Read I book

Do one "random act of kindness" daily

Make a homemade Valentine decoration

At the end of the month I'll report what I accomplished.

Things you may or may not know about me:

I love holidays

I love decorating for holidays

I love vintage holiday decorations

I love holiday food

I love having holiday parties

My favorite holiday is the next one that's coming

I love Valentine's Day!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-01T08:19:00.004-05:00

My first two favorite boys!

2012-01-30T20:50:00.007-05:00

I have to take a little walk down memory lane because at a recent family party

I was able to capture of picture of my son and nephew smiling. For those

familiar with these two, getting them both just to have their

picture taken, much less both (kinda) smiling at the same time is quite the feat.

I decided to go back and find old pictures of the two of them as they were growing up.

(Excuse the poor quality)

18 months

6 years

7 years

11 years

31 years.

thankful for:

541. smiling boys

542. needed phone calls

543. left overs

544. Created 4 Care conference

545. my husband getting a much needed nap

546. Floyd and Ginny arriving home safely.

Favorites

2012-01-30T10:47:00.003-05:00

his favorite food....

his favorite drinks....

his favorite partyware (sorry Bubba but it had to be said)....

his favorite cake.....

his mama's favorite son......

thankful for:

533. the awesome message at Sunday's service

534. Melissa's new business doing well

535. a quite evening with my sweetie tonight

536. beautiful weather today

537. my ice-cold diet dr. pepper

538. lots of phone calls from Brody this week wanting to tell his Nana "hi"

539. our car with almost 200,000 miles on it still going strong

540. Melissa's biopsy results coming back clear.

Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes on Mondays picture above.
Remembering to be greatful in all things

Thirty one years ago today.

2012-01-29T19:32:00.019-05:00

Thirty one years ago today I became a mom, for the second time, with my one and only son. I can remember laying in the labor room just praying it would be a boy since I already had a girl. At the time I thought my family would be done. It was a relatively short and ~~easy~~ not extremely painful labor. These were the days of natural labor and no epidurals. He was a happy, easy and calm little guy who was pretty much a mama's boy (and I mean that in a good way) from day one. I can honestly say that never once in his entire life has he ever raised his voice or talked back to me. He has always been a sweet heart .

(1 month)

He was a big boy at 9 lbs 3 ounces.

"Matthew Ryan"

His extended family calls him Ryan

His sisters' call him Bubba

In school he went by Matt

His girl friend and her son call him Matthew.

(9 months)

He was alway ready with a smile as a baby.

(2 years)

I can't remember a time in his life (and that includes now) that he didn't have a book in

his face. This is how I would find him most evenings.

(3 years)

He had two favorite stuffed animals. Sunshine Bear and...

Ernie.

(6 years)

My mom got him this camo outfit on his 6th birthday and he tired

to wear it almost everyday until it literally fell apart a year and-a-half later.

I must of washed it 200 times. I truly regret not keeping it because it was such a part

of him at this age.

His first fishing trip with his Grandpa in Virginia.

7 years

I look at this picture and it seems like yesterday he was this small.

(9 years)

This was his mullet and soccer phase. I loved it.

(14 years)

(18 years)

                                     Happy Birthday my sweet ~~baby boy~~ young man.
                                                  (They never stop being your baby)

                                                                    thankful for:

                                      527. my brown eyed baby birthday boy.
                                      528. my nephew coming over to help celebrate.
                                      529. Floyd and Ginny flying in to spend a few days with us.
                                      530. the pastry they brought me back from France (Epcot).
                                      531. a "smiling" picture of my "first" two favorite boys.
                                      532. the people God gave me to love.

Currently.....

2012-01-23T13:18:00.020-05:00

Normally on Mondays I do a "Multitudes on Mondays" post but I've decided to make a change and list my gratitudes each day at the end of my posts. I wanted to make sure I didn't forget to document what I was thankful for each and every day and to be honest, I would forget by doing it once a week.   Oh the joys of "maturing". ha!

There's a blog I like to visit often, Lemonade Makin' Mom. I'm sure most of you have
heard of her. If not, you need to visit.   Sasha is funny, inspiring, has created awesome products (which she sells on her Etsy site) and does beautiful photography.

              She did a really interesting post recently called, Currently....
I thought it was such a great idea to post your "currents" so you could look back in a year...or two...or three and see what you were thinking about or doing at this point in time. Thanks for the great idea Sasha.

Here goes:

Currently loving... besides my family which I'm "always loving", it would be the
     e-course I'm taking, Creatively Made given by the talented Jeanne Oliver.

Currently reading... Radical (again), the bible and the new HGTV magazine.
Currently waiting... to hear how my daughter's first day on her new job went.
Currently excited about... having all of our toilets replaced. TMI? Sorry but I
      hate the toilets we have and just found out we're replacing them all in the
      next couple of weeks.
Currently missing... my Illinois grandkids. I don't think I'll ever get use to them
      living in another state.
Currently trying... to eat more healthy.
Currently working at... getting more uninterupted sleep.
Currently enjoying... reruns of The Big Bang comedy show. We only started watching
      in the last year so all the reruns are new to us. So funny.
Currently snacking on... leftover Christmas M&M's (that's why I'm trying to
      eat healthier.)
Currently using... philosophy peppermint shower wash. Yummy.
Currently wearing... black capris, grey blouse and my Valentine present,
       a Brighton bangle bracelet with two pink sparkling beads on it. (Got it early).
Currently planning... my menu for the week because we'll be having house guests
       for 5 days.
Currently singing... How Great Is Our God, listening to it on my playlist.
Currently needing... new tennis shoes (and socks) because I'm starting back on
      my 1 hour a day walking regement.
Currently learning... how much I need God.
Currently listening to...  inspiring video's of women who have discovered their gifts
      that God has given them through the e-course.
Currently wishing... that I'm able to overcome all the obstacles (such as money and
      my immense fear of flying) so that I'll be going to Ethiopia in November
     on a mission trip.
Currently doing... an art project in mixed media that I feel totally out of my skill
      and element but loving the process.
Currently praying for... my daughter's and son's new jobs, my granddaughter's life
      as she learns to navigate high school, my oldest daughter's new business,
    Muri's life in Ethiopia, ,a clear understanding of God's plan for me, my neighbor
     as she learns to navigate life as a widow, wisdom of the voters as the elections
     approach.
Currently looking forward to... a Christian Women's conference this March
     in Nashville. Would love to see you there. Click on the link for more info.

Currently dreaming of... the possibility of adopting one day.
Currently greatful for... inspiring bloggers like Sasha.

                                                  Thankful for:
                                        519. the movie "Courageous"
           520. the main actor in Les Miserables honoring God at the end of the play
                                    521. Dylan sleep-over on Friday
                                      522. house guests for the week
                                                523. Carrie's new job
                                              524. Ryan's new job
                         525. spending time with Carrie this weekend shopping
                                  526. caring and generous big sisters


                                     Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

            Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes on Mondays picture above.
                    Remembering to be greatful in all things

Project 2, A Vintage Journal

2012-01-19T10:52:00.032-05:00

I completed my second journal project, a vintage journal. With the theme being "vintage" I decided to honor my maternal grandmother for this project. She died two weeks after my mom was born so I never knew her but I knew of stories about her. This picture was taken in 1934 and it's a copy of a copy of a copy ..... so the quality isn't the best.

My grandmother, Grace, was a very loving women with black curly hair and the most beautiful blue eyes, as the stories go. My older brother has her eyes and his daughter,
Cindi, resembles her alot. My grandfather worshiped her and after she died he was never the same. I know my grandparents were together several years before she was able to have a baby. She was so very happy to have my mom and it is terribly sad that she died so soon. To compound that tragedy is that her own mother died in child birth so my mommy was without a mommy or grandmother.

Grace's legacy: 1 child, 6 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren (to date). If she had not been able to have my mom, the large group
of people I cherish as family would not exist. Thank you God for the incredible gift
of my grandmother. I know she'll be welcoming us home one day.

Thankful for

514. my grandmother

515. a sunny cool morning in florida

516. the people I work for and with

517. ice-water from my fridge that tastes better than bottled

518. a gift tickets to see Les Miserables tonight with my hubby (Thank you Nancy)

Wordless Wednesday (almost)

2012-01-18T16:42:00.003-05:00

(enjoying the swing in 30 degrees weather with the sun in his face)

Thankful for

511. my niece's birthday today

512. a wonderful month of 7 family birthdays

513. time to work on my art project tonight

Determination

2012-01-18T10:04:00.037-05:00

I usually try to make all of my grandkids activities so having 2 of them in another state has been hard for me. I don't want to miss anything. For those in this same situation, you know what I mean.

Everytime I visit Illinois I make sure to go watch Makenzie at Gymnastics.   She
is one determined little girl and practices over and over again when learning something new. I'm so proud of my baby granddaughter. Keep in mind, she's only 4.

                                                         Sister's got skills.

It always helps when Mommy is your coach.

Her favorite part is a "lolli" for a job well done.

Just love this girl!

Thankful for:

502. one last peppermint mocha frappuccino

503. an unexpected gift in my mail from my bff

504. my baby girl getting a new job

505. a ~~cold~~ cool front coming through tonight

506. sweetie picking up a repaired sunglass for me today

507. my bff texting with me at 5:00 am (4:00 am her time)

because I couldn't sleep.

508. Brody's chest x-ray showing no pneumonia

509. light traffic on the way to work

510. frozen pancakes for dinner

Multitudes on Mondays

2012-01-16T22:23:00.003-05:00

Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes
on Mondays picture above.

Remembering to be greatful in all things

I'm thankful for:

484. healing after dealing with the flu, feeling better for a few days
then having a sore throat for 10 days.
485. a much needed visit with my Illinois grandkids at Christmas time.

486. a wonderful dinner made by my sweetie and it was awesome.

487. the 4 hours of snow before it melted.

488. Paige for her thoughtful gift. I'm loving the e-course "Creatively
Made".
489. my sister-in-law's quick healing from a burst appendix.
490. blogging "friends".
491. politicians who don't stoop to attack ads.
492. long weekends.
493. Florida days that are sunny and 60 degrees.
494. journal writing.
495. walking in his word.
496. Dylan's movie night/sleep over last Friday. Toy Story again.

497. date night this week.
498. a granddaughter who stays home to study for mid-terms over the
weekend even though that's the last thing she would like to be doing.

499. unexpected smiles from strangers.
500. minors car problems when major ones were expected.
501. God loving me in spite of myself.

My First Project

2012-01-15T21:29:00.002-05:00

I can't say enough about how much I'm enjoying the e-course, Creatively Made. I just completed my first project. It's a "Mixed Media Altered Journal". I'm pretty okay with the finished product although if I were doing it again, I'd do a few things differently. I guess that's why I need the classes. I'm still finishing my vintage journal and hope to be done soon.

This is inside the cover.

I added a few watercolor pages along with quotes and favorite bible verses for interest throughout the journal.

I'm looking forward to week two of the class for our next projects. The course is still open until tomorrow night. Go over and visit Jeannie Oliver's blog. You're gonna love it.

Creatively Made

2012-01-12T10:32:00.003-05:00

The very talented Jeanne Oliver is hosting her very first e-course, Creatively Made.
I was so excited to find out that I was gifted a "place" in this course by Paige of
Simple Thoughts. Thanks again so much Paige.

This couldn't have come at a more perfect time as I'm "retiring" from my job of the
last 20 years in a few months. I've been pondering ideas of what I want to do. What do I really want to do in this stage of my life? I love taking pictures, making things, baking, planning and hosting parties. Basically create. Even when I was a child whenever I thought about what I wanted to be when I grew up, besides being a mother, I always aspired to be or do things in the creative fields. An actress or singer (I definitely don't have the talent for that), a journalist, a children's book author, write for a magazine, party or wedding planner or an artist. I've always loved those gifts that were homemade with love the most and they've always been my favorite to give so I hoping through this course to find out what my true gifts are in creating.

Even though this is the first week, I am loving it so much already. I can't wait to get started on my first project.

I encourage anyone who has been looking for their special gift to take a look at her blog to find out more information about classes.

Oh, and she also sells really beautiful creations of her own. She is so talented.

UPDATE
*Jeanne has just extended registration until January 16th * January 16th*

Word of the Year

2012-01-10T13:02:00.002-05:00

My word of the year is "Thankful". (thangk'fel) adj. Showing or feeling gratitude:
greatful. To express one's thanks to. To give credit.

I really began focusing on this word last year when I began participating in "Multitudes on Mondays". I'm continuing this year by not only listing my gratitudes my making sure I show how thankful I am specifically to the giver. Not just the giver of gifts but of kind words, services, a smile, a gesture .... How many times have I thought back to a kind gesture or services with a smile, yet not spoken or written those words of gratitude to the giver. A teacher who went out of her way to make you or your children feel
special, a kind neighbor who always has a wave or smile, the brewtista who welcomes you by name, the kind, elderly gentleman who always insists on walking your groceries out to the car.

I'll begin by making sure all my Christmas thank-you cards are mailed (some of mine
are a bit late going out) and my goal is to continue in everyday happenings.

And just because I hate to have a post without a picture, I'm thankful for this funny sweet face.

Welcome 2012!

2012-01-03T16:52:00.003-05:00

I was looking at the post I made at the beginning of January 2011. I think I did a "slightly above average" job of accomplishing the changes I wanted to make in myself for the year. I did fail miserably in one in particular. Click here to see that list.

This year I've decided to be more specific so that I can hold myself accountable but with the blessed knowledge that I'm forgiven when I fall short. So here goes, my list of resolutions for 2012.

* Read the entire bible.

* Nuture my relationship with my husband.

* Become more involved at church.

* Eat healthier.

* Exercise more (Goals: Walk 6 hours a week and bike ride one hour a week.)

* Visit Ethiopia.

* Drink more water.

* Fund raise for a well somewhere in Africa.

* Get more sleep.

* Pray purposefully for my loved ones (family and friends).

* Pray everyday.

* Pray for those in need.

* Read 12 books.

* ~~Attend a Christian Women's Conference~~. (already scheduled. Yay!)
The Pearl Event II - The Double Strand.

* Start a business with my husband.

* Begin to learn the piano.

* Make more time with my mom.

* Visit my Dad.

* Learn to sew.

* Use my resources (time and money) to bless others.

* Join a bible study.

* Be more organized.

* Begin to learn another language.

* Always be an encourager to others.

* Show my gratitude to others.

* Eat out less and plan menus.

* Give more gifts from the heart (homemade).

* Gift my kids and grandkids with more of my time rather than just gifts themselves.

* Learn to take better pictures with my camera on settings other that auto and ISO.

I've listed quite alot of resolutions and I'm looking forward to seeing how far I can go.

Have a blessed New Year everyone!

My four favorite things about Christmas.

2012-01-03T13:05:00.003-05:00

My Grandbabies!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T00:22:00.158-05:00

From our family to yours,

Have a very Merry Christmas and a
blessed New Year and
remember the reason for this
holiday season.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

A few memories of Christmas 2011.
(Pictures of a few of our new decorations)

Christmas Morning 2011

Family room tree

Everyone needs mistletoe

The best two words I know.

Mike has a taste for everything retro. Something about reliving his childhood. ha!

He got these "retro Christmas robots" last year (never thought I'd have an occassion

to use those three words together).

I saw this idea on Pinterest and my sweetie made it happen for a Christmas party.

Still trying to find an excuse for not taking them down. Valentine's Day possibly?

Maybe he could add a few pink balls. :-)

This year I asked Mike to make me for
Christmas, 2 magnetic chalkboards to
hang in my breakfast nook. I love them.
My favorite gift from him.

I also saw these candy dish stands on Pinterest and Mike made them for

me for Christmas. I plan to use them again for Valentine's Day.

He also made a white one so I may get to use them for 4th of July (if I only

had a blue one). Sweetie!

I try to display Christmas cards thoughtout different places in our house.

My favorite are the picture cards. I didn't get to make one this year which

I'm very sad about, however I have a fantastic idea for next year. Yes, I'm

already planning next year.

This is something you won't see often (as in never). Mike does most things but

he doesn't cook but he was great and pitched in for Christmas brunch.

Dylan got twin revolvers from us. Poppy's favorite and Dylan

liked it pretty well himself.

My sweet big baby grandgirl.

Kelly and Matt weren't able to make it this year so the day after Christmas,

as in 3:30 am, I hopped in my car and headed up to see them for a couple

of days. It was a long, long, long drive but so worth it.

Makenzie Belle

I love this photo of Brody, in his camo playing with his sister's stocking stuffers.

He gives equal opportunity to all toys.

And an additional little bonus to my trip was waking up the first morning

after I arrived to this. It only lasted a few hours, but for this Florida

girl, what precious hours they were.

Looking down Kelly's street.

Kelly's house at 6:00 am, December 27th, 2011.

Wordless Wednesday (almost)

2011-12-21T22:17:00.002-05:00

A boy who loves his train.

Multitudes on Mondays (Christmas Edition)

2011-12-19T11:26:00.033-05:00

                            Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

             Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes
                     on Mondays picture above.

                Remembering to be greatful in all things

I'm thankful for:

461.   the birth of Jesus.
462.   a great sermon at church followed up by a sweet Christmas program that
                my nieces and nephews were in.
463. Carrie, Melissa and Dylan coming with us.
464. the Christmas shopping done, mostly. :-)
465. Richard and Marlene hosting our family Christmas celebration this year.
466. cousins at Christmas time.

Most of the cousins who "will remain nameless" did not want pictures this year.

467. our parents.

468. the influence that Tim Tebow has on the high school kids. Yay God!!!
469. Christmas trees.

470. homemade gifts from my husband. The Best!!
471. all the packages being mailed.
472. more people putting up Christmas lights this year.
473. the precious announcement that our family will add another member by way
of adoption. Click here to see our surprise.
474. the upcoming trip to see grandkids.
475. a brother in town visiting.
476. 24/7 christmas music on not one, but two radio stations.
477. egg nog.
479. Christmas movie marathons.
480. gingerbread houses.
481. the nativity (the inside and outside kinds)

482. little girls in Christmas dresses

483. big girls who will still wear Christmas pajamas for her Nana.

What are you thankful for?

Gingerbread House

2011-12-11T20:41:00.003-05:00

My first gingerbread house where I actually made the dough, cut out the pieces,
baked them, assembled and decorated. I was able to use enough icing to cover
up most of my mistakes and I was happy with the results. The best part is the entire house smell like gingerbread all day. I don't think I'll ever go back to the pre-baked
kits. I also don't think I'll ever be entering any gingerbread house competitions
either (which was a dream of mine). This one took me 4 hours and it's fairly small.
I will just be content with a little one for our home.

Kristi's 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway

2011-12-10T09:31:00.000-05:00

Kristi from ...and babies make four is having her annual 12 days of Christmas giveaway. Click on the link and join the fun.

Whose birthday is it?

2011-12-08T10:09:00.001-05:00

                         Take the time to read an amazing post by Ann Voskamp


When I grow up (even though she's MUCH younger than me) can I be her?     :-)

Gymnastic Meet Take 2

2011-12-08T00:29:00.000-05:00

Makenzie had her second gymnastic meet and this time she did her routine with her eyes "open". She loves gymnastics, but the audience, not so much. So we're putting this in the win-win category.

Warming up.

Getting first place

And the best part of the day, ice-cream afterwards.

We're proud of you Makenzie Belle.

Wordless Wednesday (almost)

2011-12-07T08:53:00.000-05:00

The cutest little "Santa" I ever saw.

Brody

(He will be18 months in a few days)

Christmas Mantle

2011-12-06T21:57:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite things to decorate for Christmas (or really any holiday) is our fireplace mantle. Probably because one of my favorite parts of Christmas is the stockings. Even when I was little, to me the stockings were better than the presents.

The kids are grown with families of their own but "Santa" still leaves stockings for everyone. I've never done a mantle link up before and I'm so glad I happened upon the two below. In looking at all the links, I've gotten so many great ideas. Besides pinterest of course. I'll definitely be trying something new next year.

Stockings: Pottery Barn Kids (We are actually missing four of the stockings)
Stocking holders: Target
Fire place screen: My husband got this years ago at Kirklands. He is very partial to it.

Click on the link ups below to view some really spectacular Christmas mantles.

Today I'm linking up with
Ten June

and My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia

Multitudes on Mondays

2011-12-05T10:10:00.002-05:00

                                             Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

                  Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes on Mondays picture above.
                                  Remembering to be greatful in all things

I'm thankful for:
439. church sermons that speak directly to the issues I need it to (again).
440. beautiful december weather in Florida.
441. pinterest ideas.
442. a visit with my parents this weekend after church.
443. train building with Dylan.
444. my grandkids and my better-late-than-never (posting) of their halloween pictures.

Dorothy and the lion.

A Modern Day Fairy Princess

Spock
(Dylan doesn't know who Spock is so he decided he was a spaceman)

445. gingerbread houses.
446. Mike always being able to fix whatever I break.
447. two nieces accepting Jesus into their hearts this month.
448. Muri's new picture.
449. being closer to finishing our Christmas shopping.
450. peppermint mocha frappuccinos.
451. peppermint bark.
452. children's Christmas plays.
453.  outdoor nativitys.
454. all day Christmas music channels.
455. my dad wrapping all the Christmas presents for my mom.
456. Wanda's continued healing from surgery.
457. Christmas cards arriving in the mail.
458.  advent calendar ideas by bloggers (I especially love Pitter Patter Art's idea
              of a Random Act of Kindness advent calendar).
459.  more neighbors putting up Christmas lights this year.
460.  light traffic to work this morning. :)

                                 What are you thankful for?

Trains

2011-12-05T00:05:00.001-05:00

What is it with little boys (and big boys) and trains. Dylan came for a sleep over this past weekend and all he could think about or talk about was trains. So after dinner Poppy and Dylan set up the Christmas train and had lots of fun watching it go around and around f-o-r-e-v-e-r.

Train building is serious work.

Time to start the train!

After a night of rail-roading, a bath and pj's, I tried to do a little photo shoot by the tree.

I gave up after a few minutes because sometimes it's better just to "shoot" for another day.

We had a great visit sweet boy.

Flashback Friday

2011-12-02T08:11:00.000-05:00

In honor of my baby girl's birth week, she will be on my second installment of Flashback Friday. I think I'm gonna really love pulling out my favorite memories and recording them in blog land. :)

My Thanksgiving Baby

all 10 lbs 5 ounces of her

my own ~~little~~ big "butterball"

her favorite yellow bear that she still has 24 years later

the most hair of all my kids (by far)

slept through the night the day she came home from the hospital

rarely cried but when she did it was a silent cry (only tears)

spoiled rotten (as most babies of the family usually are)

named after the little girl on "little house"

(they even looked alike)

lover of books (all books)

harry potter fan

thrift store shopper

big heart

messy car keeper

Happy Birthday Carrie.

2011-11-27T22:57:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's been 24 years since the birth of the baby in my family. My baby girl, Carrie. And I will let you know, she has lived up to being in baby of our family in every sense of the word. We had a little party at our house to celebrate. Her menu request was cheese tortellini with roasted red pepper sauce, cheese broccoli and dinner rolls. She's not much for cake so this year she requested peanut butter pie. This is the first birthday since she was 16 that she didn't request pumpkin pie. That's what happens when your birthday usually falls on Thanksgiving weekend if not Thanksgiving day. 24 years ago today I went into labor cooking Thanksgiving dinner and I've been thankful for her ever since.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl

Carrie and her boyfriend, Joel.

She had help opening most of her presents.

Happy 24th Birthday. I hope your wish comes true.

Love, Mom

Flashback Friday

2011-11-26T23:01:00.001-05:00

Because I didn't have a blog when my family was young, I'll be doing a flashback friday to document past pictures and memories. This my take up my fridays for quite a while. Forever actually. :)

So to kick it off, I'll post a picture of myself as a toddler.

Hope you all had a blessed Thanksgiving Holiday. Now on to Christmas.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T11:41:00.001-05:00

As I was preparing dishes for our large family gathering at my mom's house this afternoon it suddenly dawned on my that my fall decorations will be coming down tomorrow to make room for Christmas. While I'm so excited to get started, I know I'm gonna miss my favorite colors.

Cherish the time with your family today giving thanks to God who makes all things possible.

From my home to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.

I'm in love with my 5 dollar pumpkin that I got in Virginia.
It's still as fresh as ever. I'm thinking about painting is red
and keeping it for Christmas. What do you think? :)

My family tree that Mike gave me for our anniversary. No, the pictures aren't of our family yet.

I still need 4 more frames. On my to do list for next week. He also made me

the white candy dish stand you see above. (maybe you've seen them on Pinterest)

I love them! Thanks babe.

Pure Maple syrup from Vermont. We'll be using this today.

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in
Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:18

Being thankful in all things

2011-11-22T21:01:00.031-05:00

Thanksgiving is the day we honor God by giving thanks for his many blessings to America.

Let's remember to be thankful in all things. Don't grow complacent. Be greatful

for your good fortune and bad. Find gratitude in all things.

One of our biggest blessings this year is Muri. We sponsor her

through Children's Hope Chest at Trees of Glory (TOG) day center in Ethiopia.

We've been her sponsor family since February of this year. We are

occasionally allowed to send small care packages to TOG when

a team from Children's Hope Chest goes over for a trip.

Our sweet Muri is so very thankful for the smallest of things.

A hair pretty, color pencils, a new shirt.

She knows that there is a family out there who cares enough

about her to see that she gets an education, health care and food. She

knows God loves her and she is his precious princess.

And She Is Thankful.

You grow very attached to a child that you pray for daily just as you

would for your own family. We are the blessed ones and we

are so thankful for this sweet little girl.

If your interested in sponsoring a child, please click on the Trees of Glory box on the right side

of this blog to find out more information or please email Karen Wistrom (the coordinator) at kjwistrom@yahoo.com and she will match you with a child! There are currently 30 precious children of God in need of a sponsor family at Trees of Glory.

I would love for family or friends to sponsor a child at Trees of Glory.

Maybe we could go to Ethiopia together on a future trip. I've got

my sights set on next year. Wouldn't that be amazing!

It means the world to a child like Muri.

I'll leave you with this beautiful smile.

Happy Thanksgiving. Have a very blessed holiday with your family.

What's in a name?

2011-11-17T12:42:00.001-05:00

I've have several people ask me what my blog name means. One of the most frequently asked is "While your waiting for what?". I've never addressed it before because I really didn't know how to put into words how I felt about making the most of my life until the time I'm called home. I wanted to document the moments and thoughts that mean so much to me now. I only wish I had this opportunity when I was much younger. All those thoughts and moments forgotten. I want to be purposeful in the way I live life now. I want to have a servants heart to do what is in God's heart. I recently got a comment from Yvonne from that beautiful Stone Gable blog. She simply stated, "Your blog title reminds me to keep running the race before me looking forward to the prize. And what a prize it will be." I can't describe it any better than that. Thanks Yvonne.

For those of you who don't know (and I can hardly imagine that) Yvonne has a blog
called Stone Gable. It's all about Tablescapes, Home Decor, Recipes and Inspiration.
It is by far my favorite.

And just because it's hard to make a post without a picture.

Missing my Illinois grandbabies

Our Trip, Part 4

2011-11-17T11:58:00.001-05:00

The fourth stop on our adventure was Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Definitely on my "bucket list" on places I wanted to see.

As soon as we arrived you could see the buggies in the roads along with

the cars. I'd always heard that the Amish didn't like to have their pictures

taken so I was careful not to take their images up close.

I later learned near the end of my trip that most don't mind

at all as long as you don't get right up in their face or ask

them to take a picture with you. While all of the curious tourist

are riding around looking, they actually live there and are going

about their busy lives with work.

They really grow their pumpkins hugh.

There were lots of opportunities for buggy tour rides.

This is a farmer going about the business of moving his crop. The

locals are really patient in Lancaster and move slowly

when there is a buggy or wagon on the road which I was

very happy to see. It seems the movies I've seen showing

the "english" being so mean to them just isnt true. At

least in Lancaster.

This was one of my favorite antique shops of the entire trip.

Mike and I both got a few really good deals and the people

were so great. They asked where we were from, made suggestions for

food locations and directed us to the best buggy ride business.

I loved this shopping location. It's fairly new and hosts lots of shops in one

place. It also happened to be where we began and ended our buggy ride.

A lot of the shops had Amish working in them. There was a shop that had mustard, jellys, relishes, candies and baked goods that had an open view of the cannery.

The Amish ladies working in it were beautiful and very sweet.

This is the buggy we rode on. It had been raining off and on (which happened

most of our trip) so this one offered protection in case of a down pour.

Which did happen a couple of times on our ride.

The young man who drove us was not a practicing Amish. His father had

been Amish but decided to leave when he was 18 and live among the towns people.

Did you know that they get a year or two when there about 16 or 17 to

experience living they way the other teenagers and young adults do?

After that period of time they decide whether they want to live in the

Amish traditions or live in the "world". I had heard of that but what

I didn't know is that if you decide not to live in the Amish ways, most Amish

families do not bannish them. They come back for Sunday dinners with the family.

Our buggy driver told us he grew up visiting on the weekends. His grandparents

had even bought his dad a car when he was 18, but he just had to park it

at the neighbors house.

There were lots of dairy farms in the area.

The first covered bridge of our trip.

After we finished our ride we decided to head to dinner to

the famous Stoltzfus Farm Restaurant. We wanted to try

the food that was known in that area.

It was a beautiful converted farm.

           I'll admit when I saw the menu, I was a little taken aback. Not what I would
             normally choose.  They served your food family style and they bring an
          enormous amout of food to your table in serving bowls. But I decided to
             give most everything a try.   They had something called hamloaf
                 (basically meatloaf minus the beef and adding ground ham).
                 It was incredibly good. There fried chicken was some of the best I've
                  ever had. There were also lots of farm vegetables.   We were
                        pleasantly surprised at how delicious the food was. I'm so
                      glad we made an agreement to try the food that is famous for the
               area we were in. I don't think we would of chosen this if we hadn't.

We had heard so much about shoofly pie in every store we were in

and neither of us had ever had it. That's what they served for dessert.

It's wonderful. Kind of (but not exactly) like pecan pie without the pecans.

The food is prepared by Amish women and I definitely think

if you ever visit there you have to make this a must do.

I just had to get a picture of this. It was just the cutest restaurant decor

I've ever seen. It just puts a smile on your face.

And I'll leave you with a cute lawn decoration that you'll see as you

leave the restaurant.

Things we learned on our visit to Lancaster.

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are the best fall dessert I've ever tasted.

It's alot more commericalized that I thought it would be.

The Amish don't mind if you take pictures as long as your not directly in their face.

Amish quilts are beautiful and expensive.

There are lots of really great antique stores with reasonable prices.

Some Amish have solar power, even though they don't have electricity.

Amish farms are AWESOME.

The English and the Amish get along great where we were at.

I really like covered bridges.

I like shoofly pie.

They grow really big pumpkins.

Just because some Amish decide to leave that way of life, it doesn't have

to mean they are bannished.

Great memories were made here.

We realized about a week after we left Lancaster that Mike's favorite ball cap (Cherry Point Naval Hosptial) was missing. We tried for days to retrace where we had been recently. Because there had been so much rain and no sun he couldn't remember the last time he wore it. One eveing (while we were in Maine) I was thinking about our trip and it suddenly dawned on me that the last time I saw it was on a chair at the Stoltzfus Restaurant in Lancaster the week before. We called them and would you believe they had found it and decided to keep it in case someone came back for it. It had been almost two weeks by the time we called them. They were so sweet and put it in the mail to us. Can you believe that? Mike was so greatful. He was at that Naval hosptial in the 80's and had found the hat in an antique shop in mint condition a few years ago. We will always be so thankful for their kindness.

Our Trip, Part 3

2011-11-09T23:48:00.003-05:00

Wow, it's been weeks since I made a post to document our trip. My plan was to post two different cities a week. Well you know what happens to best laid plans...... LIFE. It may also have something to do with the fact that "Part 3, Gettysburg" has hundreds of pictures that I needed to go through, edit and pick a few to summarize our visit. And since this was Mike's favorite stop, that is going to be a tall order and I've been putting it off. We'll I decided to bite the bullet and get started.

                                                        Gettysburg

       We really enjoyed our visit to Gettysburg. Some of the nicest people
                                                you'd ever want to meet.
             (It was raining off and on that day so the pictures are pretty overcast.)
( I'm not particularly good at lighting with my camera)

Mike and his favorite President.

There are different ways to tour the National Cemetery. You can take a bus tour,

rent a CD and drive yourself or hire a private tour guide. I'd recommend you hire

the private guide. You can hire him for 2 to 5 hours. (I found our 2 hours to be plenty

but I think Mike would of preferred the 5 hour tour.) The private guide was a wealth

of knowledge and you have the advantage of asking whatever you want.

Note that when you hire the private tour guide, he will actually drive your car so you would

need to be comfortable with that. The advantage is that you can stop where you want

and your not tied to the tour bus' schedule. The cost is approximately the same as two tickets

on the bus tour ($ 55.00).

The tour guide above is standing directly on the spot where President Lincoln

gave the Gettysburg address. I was surprised there wasn't a more formal marking.

The unmarked graves were categorized in regiments. It was very solemn to see just

how many unmarked graves there were.

Actual ammunition from the Civil War.

The Town

The towns shops were so quaint and the people were very friendly.

We asked locals were a great place to eat was and most all directed us to Tommy's Pizza.

And they didn't disappoint. It was delicious. If you ever make a trip there, you have to stop by.

The Battlefield

There are over 6000 monuments at Gettysburg.

The Virginia Monument

The Florida Monument

Did you know there was an
American Indian regiment?

The Pennsylvania Monument

The Dobbin House

We also ate at the historic Dobbin House which opened in 1776.
(We actually ate downstairs in the Tavern)

Yummy crab cake sandwich and their famous potato salad.

(Were not sure why the potato salad is famous but several places in

Pennsylvania and Vermont touted "famous potato salad")

The walls are original from 1776.

The Tavern dining room was lit only by candlelight.

Downtown Gettysburg

Mike was lucky enough to have a political discussion with President Lincoln and a fellow tourist.

                The gourds were beautiful. This is the first city where we started
                seeing the gourds.   A theme that will be repeated throughout
                the rest of our travels. I LOVE THEM! I kept taking pictures of
                them and telling Mike to take note. Hoping he can duplicate some
                of them for me next fall.

Gettysburg was a great city to visit. It's a small town that gives great tribute to the historic battle that took place here. They have taken great measure to honor all who gave their lives. It is done in a very respectful way. Not as commercial as you might think. Everyone we encountered was friendly and helpful. It's a perfect vacation destination, especially if you have history buffs in your family or homeschool.

Multitudes on Mondays

2011-11-07T16:00:00.000-05:00

Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

                              Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes on Mondays picture above.

                               Remembering to be greatful in all things

I'm thankful for:
416.  sweet, cute and polite trick or treators who came to my door on Halloween.
417. beautiful weather we've had this November.
418. our new neighbors who will be moving in next weekend.
419. Mike giving up a day he had planned for us full of fun activities to help out
                my Mom's friend with a last minute request. :)
420. getting all my Halloween decorations put up quickly this year.
421. a blogger's great idea for The Happy Day Project beginning today.



      Click on the Happy Day Project to learn more about it and join in the fun. Thanks Joy.

422. the Hallmark Channel already playing Christmas movies all weekend long.

Love's Christmas Journey. So sweet.

423. a quick recovery from feeling VERY ILL last night.
424. kiddos who love to sit in my lap.
425. the blessing of my babies.
426. sweet time alone with Taylor for a shopping trip.
427. Dustin, my grown nephew who still gives me a big hug whenever he sees me.
428. that God provides for our needs.
429. the time to work on my homemade Christmas ornaments in the evening while a watch the news
                       or a recorded show.
430. elementary school fall festivals that have chili cook offs.
431. Facebook Thankfulness Challange and reading what my friends are thankful for daily.
432. christmas cds.
433. Orphan Sunday.
434. being born in the United States that has been blessed with so many freedoms.
435. my husband bringing me a delicious salad to have lunch with me at work today.
436. puzzle time on the floor between a mom and son.
437. Randy and Melissa's continued recovery from surgery.
438. working in an office with kind women.

                                           What are your greatful for?

Loving Grandkids

2011-11-05T08:24:00.000-04:00

The word of the year for me is "Thankfulness". I have been participating is Multitudes
on Mondays through Ann Voskamp (you know, one thousand gifts Ann Voskamp). It has really
made me aware of how much there is to be thankful for in every aspect of our lives.
And since November is the month we celebrate our gratitude for the multitude of gifts
from God, I thought I'd post what I'm most thankful for today.

Loving Grandkids

Doesn't this just put a smile on your face

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T08:45:00.000-04:00

The Best Things About Halloween & Multitudes on Mondays

2011-10-31T11:27:00.003-04:00

There's alot of fun that revolves around October.

cooler weather
football games
family birthdays
pumpkins
decorating
crafting
picking out costumes
fall festivals
halloween parties
halloween tv specials
pumpkin muffins
soups and chilis

But the best things about Halloween for me is ...........

are these cute little pumpkins.

I'm thinking Brody feels the love.

                                      They're very sweet to share their pumpkin cookies with Rex.


                                                       Multitudes on Mondays

                                                          Joining Ann Voskamp 1000 gifts.

                                Hope you'll visit. Just click on Multitudes on Mondays picture above.

Remembering to be greatful in all things

I'm thankful for:
#401 the beauty of color God gives us in Autumn.
#402 little ones in sweet costumes who will come to my door trick or treating.
#403 wisdom in the words of blogging "friends".
#404 Kelly, Makenzie and Brody's visit.
#405 visits with my Mom this weekend.
#406 Hermela's baptism.
#407 cooler weather.
#408 GNO last week.
#409 my husband who spent many hours this weekend going to craft stores with me.
#410 Randy's surgery and hopeful for a quick recovery.
#411 Melissa continuing to heal after her surgery.
#412 Carrie's job.
#413 the health of my family and friends.
#414 cinnamon spice candles.
#415 our need to forgive because God first forgave us.

Halloween

2011-10-31T10:02:00.002-04:00

The Outside

                              While I the Christmas Gal in our house, Mike's the Halloween Guy.
                                                  He loves decorating for Halloween and I give him
                                                                the complete credit for the outside.

This is my one contribution to the outside.
I still love Charlie Brown.

The Inside

While Mike's into the scary aspect of Halloween, I'm into the pumpkins.

As I may have mentioned before, I have a slight obsession with pumpkins. I try to limit it to
one new and different pumpkin per year. This year I got two.
Picture above is a Slatkin & Company candle holder pumpkin from Bath and Body Works.
I just love his face and the cinnamon pumpkin candle scent coming out of him doesn't hurt.

My other new pumpkin this year is the "so cute" velvet pumpkin. I kept seeing them on pinterest

and I was lucky enough to get one. It looks perfect next to pumpkin man.

These are my trick or treaters that I've had since my kids were little.

An old friend of mine made them and it just wouldn't seem like Halloween

if I didn't set them out.

This is the area of the house that Mike displays his Jim Shore Halloween collection.

The candle sticks remind me of Beauty and the Beast (except the Halloween color of course)

This year I was lucky to find this "real" Cinderella pumpkin while I was visiting my Dad in Virginia.

It's practically perfect, huge and quite a deal for $5.00.

One of my best friends made this pumpkin
gourd for me several years ago and it's
definitely one of my favorites. Thanks Debbie.

From our house to yours...

Weekend Visitor

2011-10-30T22:18:00.001-04:00

We had a little visitor over the weekend. Dylan came over while his
Mommy took Taylor and her friends out to have a late birthday celebration.

We had a few activities planned at a local fall festival but decided to leave
early because he wasn't feeling well. We ended up having having a Charlie Brown Pumpkin night.

He got Rex and Slinky Dog on his birthday and has slept with them ever since.

(Doesn't seem like a very comfortable sleep companion but he doesn't

seem to care). Thanks Nanny (my mom) for such a good pick.

Embrace the Camera: October 27th

2011-10-27T21:59:00.000-04:00

I'm joining Emily from "andersonfamilycrew" for Embrace the Camera Thursday.

The object is to put yourself (or in this case my husband) in

photos with your family. So many of us (me) never end up in the pictures

because you don't like the way you look, the way your dressed, no make-up on, etc.

Stop making excuses and start documenting the memories.

Poppy and Dylan

To learn how you can join in, click here