My Home of Five

Strawberry Cobbler

2012-02-02T11:34:00.002-06:00

1 (16oz) bag of frozen whole/sliced strawberries - thawed
1/8-1/4 cup of sugar to sprinkle over strawberries
1 TBSP of concentrated lemon juice (you know... the yellow/green bottle)
1 cup of flour
1 cup of milk
1 cup of sugar
Butter

The old time version is probable using fresh strawberries with the 1 cup each of the flour, sugar, and milk mixed together for the topping. However... this is my version. I do stick close to the original! To make the strawberry cobbler for dessert tonight, I purchased the bag of whole strawberries but cut the berries in half as I placed them into a bowl with the sugar and lemon juice concentrate. Give them a toss and place the strawberries in the fridge where they can completely thaw. Tonight as I start the cobbler, I will spray or butter my baking dish (8x11). By this time, the strawberries will have made a nice syrup as they thawed. Place strawberries and syrup into the prepared baking dish. I will sift together my flour and sugar in a med-sized bowl. Add in the milk. This is where I go different... I will use 1/2 cup of buttermilk and 1/4 cup of milk. I know that this doesn't add up to a full cup but I like a thicker crust. Sometimes I even add a sprinkling of cinnamon at this point. Stir the mixture together until more no lumps. Top with pats of butter and bake in a 350 degree oven until browned.

You can make this old-time cobbler with just about any fruit. We do it all the time using (undrained) canned, frozen or fresh fruit that has been cooked down. The variety is unlimited and makes a quick dessert. If you have company, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Menu Plan Monday

2012-01-30T08:45:00.000-06:00

Linking to I'm an Organized Junkie.

Monday:
B - cinnamon rolls (The canned variety w/ lots of coffee.... bad night!)
L - soup & crackers
S - beef fajitas, rice, fruit salad
no dessert

Tuesday:
B - waffles, sausage
L - sandwich, chips, apple
S - fried chicken, squash casserole, green beans
dessert... brownies

Wednesday:
B - breakfast oatmeal bar
L - soup
S - baked potato bar w/ favorite toppings, fresh fruit
no dessert

Thursday:
B - biscuits & gravy
L - sandwich, chips
S - pork steak, mac & cheese, fried okra
dessert... strawberry cobbler

Friday:
B - oatmeal w/ apples & cinnamon
L - personal-size frozen pizza
S - eggs, hash brown patty, bacon, & biscuits
no dessert

Saturday:
B - cold cereal
L - pigs in a blanket, sweet potato fries, jello
S - grilled Tilapia, steamed rice w/ veggies
dessert... left-over strawberry cobbler

Sunday:
B - eggs, toast
L - tator tot casserole, fruit
S - sandwich of choice, chips
no dessert

Menu Adjustments

2012-01-28T11:32:00.000-06:00

We were "supposed" to have home-made pizza for lunch. Little did I know that I didn't have a pizza crust. No bag of mix, no frozen, no nothing. So much for that idea! We could eat the left-over egg salad that I made for Rickey's lunch, but the kids don't like it so I was kinda saving it for lunch tomorrow instead of making the bean soup.

Hmmmm... We definitely have to eat here because we are almost out of the green stuff. Maybe a pizza casserole? I can toss in some frozen veggies! I am sure that I have most of everything to make one. If anyone has a good idea, toss my way. I will be on twitter off and on since I am still baking away. Oh... I went against making muffins but instead tossed the dry ingredients together for my basic muffin mix and placed it into the freezer. They are so simple & quick to make when I am ready for them.

Oh, excuse me while I get emotional...

My oldest niece just called and asked me to be matron of honor at her wedding.... {teary-eyed}
She was the flower girl at mine and Rickey's wedding... {sobbing}
She is not old enough to be getting married... She will be 20 on her next b-day... {snubbing}

Snack List

2012-01-28T05:24:00.001-06:00

Kids are completely out of snacks. I thought that I would take the day tomorrow to get the freezer stocked up. It is a long list but worth it to save money!

Snack List:
banana muffins
raisin bran muffins (I have bran cereal and a box of raisins.)
pumpkin-chocolate chip muffins
sausage balls
granola bars
chocolate chip cookie dough to put in the freezer
peanut butter cookie dough to put in the freezer
caramel corn?

In the event that one of my sisters happen to come and whisk us away for the day, the list would be shortened down to 1 batch of muffins and 1 batch of cookie dough.

Friday Tidbits

2012-01-27T15:49:00.002-06:00

We stuck to the menu all week long. Except for making the cherry dump cake a day early. I think it was the first time ever!

I am going to ruin the trend tonight because there is a bag of salad mix wilting in the fridge. I don't want to waste it. Most of us will eat a salad and those who don't will still eat the sandwich.

I forget how easy it is to fix a huge dinner salad. Seriously... I hard-boiled 4 of my $.50dz eggs this morning as I cleaned up the kitchen. I also made up a batch of home-made salad dressing. At dinner time, I will set out more favorite toppings and we will have a fix-it-yourself night. I don't know why we don't eat a salad more often. It is a wonderful way to use all those bits and pieces of produce.

A baked potato makes another simple dinner. I think I will add it to next week's menu since I have tons of them!

We have new underpinning and new windows in!!! What a difference it makes with the temps too. Maybe now we can save a little on the electric bill.

Oh... vanilla bean ice cream is wonderful on top of a warm cherry dump cake. Especially when you enjoy it just before the kids come home from school!

We have no big plans for the weekend except for making snacks. The kids are out and we are really low on funds. Home-made goodies are the best way of saving money. We have gotten away from doing that lately. It is time to stock up the freezer. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

This Morning...

2012-01-26T11:29:00.000-06:00

All that I have done is absolutely nothing!!!

The rain has been non-stop and hitting the tin roof, it makes me feel so sleepy. Of course, it doesn't help that I didn't sleep good last night. This is one of those days that I wished I could have stayed in my pajamas but I didn't. As I write this post it is 11:27am and I am just now reheating a biscuit to eat for my ~~breakfast~~ brunch. I haven't even dried or fixed my hair after taking a shower. It will be all lovely & frizzy when I walk to the bus stop this afternoon. I may just pull it back in a clip! I did manage to get my taco soup going in the slow cooker for supper. That wasn't hard considering all I had to do was dump everything in there and cut it on. At least we will have a good supper on this damp rainy day.

Menu Plan Monday - Jan 23

2012-01-23T10:18:00.000-06:00

Linking to I'm an Organized Junkie

MONDAY

B - eggs, cheesy grits, fried apples

L - leftover chicken salad

S - grilled hot dogs, easy baked potato wedges, baked beans

dessert... ice cream

TUESDAY

B - pancakes

L - sandwich, chips

S - pintos, fried potatoes, turnip greens, cornbread

no dessert tonight

WEDNESDAY

B - muffins

L - chicken pot pie

S - biscuits & gravy, pork sausage

if I must list a dessert... sliced apples ; )

THURSDAY

B - eggs with leftover biscuits

L - sandwich, chips

S - taco soup using leftover pintos

dessert... cinnamon twists

FRIDAY

B - oatmeal w/ peanut butter

L - ramen noodle soup

S - sandwich of choice

dessert... cherry dump cake

SATURDAY

B - chocolate chip muffins, fruit smoothies

L - homemade pizza

S - chicken fingers, sweet potatoes, green beans

dessert... leftover cake

SUNDAY

B - eggs, toast

L - Bean Soup w/ smoked sausage, cornbread

S - bowl of cereal or sandwich of choice

no dessert tonight

For the Bean Soup... I will soak my beans Saturday night. I will drain and rinse the beans on Sunday morning and place them in crock pot. I will cook them on high while we are at church. We don't normally get home to almost 1 o'clock so they should be done.

SNACKS

popcorn

slices of easy lemon pound cake

granola bars

impossible peanut butter cookies

Monthly Menu Page... gone!

2012-01-23T08:17:00.000-06:00

I took down the page I had for our monthly menu. Some of our meals were scratched while others were combined with bits and pieces from another one. I need to explore the depths of the freezers and the corners of the pantry shelves to see what food is left and plan accordingly. I should have some kind of a plan up by the end of the day!

A Rough Night

2012-01-23T07:48:00.001-06:00

Last night was pretty rough. A few thunderstorm warnings and many tornado warnings kept me awake most of the night. At one point the kids were awaken by the weather radio. That particular storm was in our county, but just above us. I sent them back to bed and turned the sound down on the radio since I was up watching. As of this morning, everyone is safe and sound in my family. I have heard that there has been some deaths, so please pray for the families. Since it is now daylight and a search can be started, we may hear of more. I pray that we don't!

Friday Tidbits - 1/20/12

2012-01-20T07:54:00.000-06:00

I was really busy on Monday cleaning and getting rid of stuff. The kids were out of school for Martin Luther King Jr's birthday so they got to help me. We actually have several boxes ready to take to the thrift store.

Monday night I started looking around Wordpress. I started 45,000 bucks away to financial freedom to check out the differences between Blogger and Wordpress. It seems like a lot of people are moving over there. Not sure if I will move this blog over there or just import it into the new one. I may just keep the two totally separate. My sister has a blog over there and she loves it.

I have shared a few meals over there since we haven't stuck to the menu plan at all.

Tuesday, I took it easy.

Wednesday, we made our weekly trip to Walgreens, CVS, and Piggly Wiggly. I started feeling bad.

Yesterday we went to get our taxes filed and we stopped by the Farmer's Market for fresh produce. I came home and did nothing for the rest of the day. I felt really bad at this point and developed a terrible headache. The kids basically fended for themselves for supper.

I feel a little better today. It is supposed to be a nice weekend so I am keeping my fingers crossed that I can get out and enjoy it.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Taking it easy

2012-01-17T11:50:00.002-06:00

Today I am recouping from yesterday's chaos. We got a lot done and I am so tired. Other than folding a few loads of clothes, I am taking it easy today. That includes an easy dinner. I have chicken legs and thighs thawed in the fridge for dinner. The children really don't like baked chicken unless I use shake-&-bake. I don't have any here, but I did find a homemade version of shake-&-bake to try. Since I thought about making the pumpkin pie tonight, I will probable bake them at the same time. Pumpkin pie does count as a veggie... right? I don't know what else I will add to the meal yet. Maybe some shells & cheese. We have switched many things around on our menu for January so it is a little off on some of the meal ideas.

Well... I am off to watch a few shows on the DVR and the weather. It might be a rough afternoon where a few storms go severe!

If I Am Quiet...

2012-01-16T13:30:00.001-06:00

If I am quiet today on the blog, twitter, and/or facebook, it is because...

A. The children are out of school today.

B. I am cleaning/organizing/donating things in many rooms.

C. I am on Pinterest getting ideas for different meals and snacks. We are so tired of everything.

D. All of the above.

If you answered D, you are correct!

10 Things I Love About You!

2012-01-15T05:08:00.002-06:00

1. Your creativity.

2. Your beautiful curly red hair.

3. Your smiles.

4. Your compassion for others.

5. Your integrity.

6. Your eagerness.

7. Your will power.

8. Your quick forgiveness of others.

9. Your loving heart.

10. Your early passion for Christ!

Happy 10th. Birthday, Hope!
I love you, my sweet & precious girl!

Friday Tidbits

2012-01-13T07:32:00.000-06:00

Tidbits of information from this past week.

It snowed last night!!! Ok... it was only a dusting but I loved it!

I started to take the week off to celebrate several birthdays in our family but as you see, it didn't last.

Right now... the children's bedrooms look as if a tornado came through. Not a happy camper about that either so no one gets to play the Wii until they are cleaned.

I cleaned out most of the plastic storage drawers beside my computer desk. Been organizing all my important paperwork too.

We went to our three favorite places Wednesday. CVS, Walgreens, & Piggly Wiggly.
Here is the deals we got at each place...

"The Pig":
1. 10lb bag of chicken leg quarters - $6.80
2. Two boxes of Post cereal - $1.88 each
3. Four cans of Campbells chicken noodle - 2/$1.
4. Little Debbie cakes - 3/$5

CVS:
I used my $3.off any purchase birthday coupon that I got in an email. No big deals here, but I did get $2.75 extrabucks added to my card!

Walgreens:
Purchased 3 butterfinger candy bars for Hope's cake for $.39 eachusing the WG coupon.

That is it for this simple but enjoyable week. My sister called and told me to get ready that she was coming to kidnap me for a while today. Good thing... I need birthday candles for Hope's birthday cake this weekend. Have a great weekend everyone!

Night and Day

2012-01-11T17:20:00.000-06:00

Man... talk about a night and day difference! Rickey went to a window place yesterday morning asking about an estimate for the windows that were blew out from the heat of the fire. The business came out this afternoon for the measurements.

Much good news... not only did we hear from them within the next hour, but they also told us that they could replace the underpinning that melted! For much cheaper than the contractor who never came!!!

Can't... Stay... Away...

2012-01-10T16:25:00.002-06:00

So I have took a few days off from blogging. I decided that I couldn't take it another second, lol! I am so excited right now. I feel like a huge burden is slowly being lifted off our heads. A few months back, the mobile home beside us caught on fire and burned. We are still dealing with the aftermath of the damage that it done to our home. The contractor that was "supposed to help fix the damage"... hasn't! We called and left many messages without a call back. WE WERE SICK OF IT!

Every time it rains, our roof leaks making the carpets, walls, insulation, and whatever else is in between wet. And it has rained a lot! We have had it covered but that doesn't last forever. Since our mortgage company still has a lot of interest in the mobile home, we have to report back and forth with them about the damage. We finally got approval this morning to get new estimates and a new contractor!!! Hopefully... we will get everything fixed within the next couple of weeks!

We still deal with a little fear from time to time. Our master bedroom received the most damage. With the cooler temps, we have been using a space heater to compensate for the loss of heat through the broken windows. When we first cut it on, Hope grew upset once again. She was afraid that it would catch something on fire. We assured her that it wouldn't. I hope and pray that she won't always have this fear of fire.

Anyways... I am still enjoying time away from the computer but I am sure that I will post again before the week is out. I really should have planned & posted a menu yesterday. It would have kept me from doing what I am about to do... stand in front of the fridge deciding what I am going to fix. I think I might take the easy road... fix biscuits and gravy! When I get the kitchen cleaned after supper, I am definitely planning for the rest of the week. I already used most of my grocery budget for this week on one lousy trip so I have to get creative with what I have here. I can't go back to the store until sometime next week except for the makings of Hope's birthday cake.

It's My Party...

2012-01-06T14:13:00.003-06:00

"... I will cry if I want to, cry if I want to..."!

Actually... there won't be any crying because no one is reading my blog besides my very first follower!!! Thank you by the way and welcome to my blog!

I am going to be taking the week off from blogging to celebrate many birthdays in our family! My youngest niece is three today as well as Rickey's youngest niece and she turns 11. Hope will celebrate her 10th. birthday next week. You may ask why I am taking a bloggy break for their birthday's?

I'm not! Not really anyways.

It is for MY birthday that I am taking the break.

I am turning 41 tomorrow and I am running off to reclaim my youth! Ha! OK... just kidding, but I am going to take some time off to enjoy these next few days with my lovely birthday gals. I will be popping in on twitter @Myhomeof5. I will go nuts if I remain off the net all week. Anyways... we are going to have fun! Stay tuned, I will be back on the 16th of January with a new menu plan!

Deals of the Day

2012-01-06T11:07:00.001-06:00

Rickey has two days off work each week, (Sunday & Wednesday). We take Wednesdays to run errands. This week he filled in for one of the guys who needed off. He traded his Wednesday for a Thursday. We found a few deals while we were out yesterday. Oh... I checked out the local Save-A-Lot grocery store and wasn't really impressed with their prices. It is almost the same as Piggly Wiggly but I did grab a few things on sale.

Our first stop was at Walgreens...
1. 2 packs of Charmin 6pk toilet paper @ $2.99 each. Good deal around here!
2. 2 can of White Rain hairspray on clearance for $.80 a can!
3. 4 (15oz.) CoffeeMate creamers on clearance for $.87 each. Peppermint Mocha left from Christmas

$.87 people!!! That was my deal of the day!

Our next stop was at CVS where I used my poor $1. extrabuck...
1. Trident & Dentyne gum was on sale for 2/$1. I got three packs/different flavors.
2. (5oz.) Tide was $5.95 on sale but I used a $2.00 off coupon.
3. Dawn dish detergent was on sale for $99. I got one.

All together I saved 4 bucks after purchasing some personal items! After we left CVS, we went by the bank and post office, then checked out Save-A-Lot. Like I mentioned before... not really impressed. I will keep a check on their sale paper.

Save-A-Lot...
1. General Mill cereal was on sale for $1.99. I got a box of Trix and 1 of Golden Grahms. Used a $1 off 2 coupon. It was almost a freebie.
2. I found 2 packs of (6) apples that had been marked down to $.87 a pack. I grabbed both!

It wasn't much that we saved through out the whole day, but it was things that we were going to be buying anyways! We stopped by McDonald's and ate off the $1. breakfast menu and shared a large sweet tea. For lunch, we got an Arby's classic roast beef for BOGO free that we brought home and ate with chips and a drink. It feels good to save when we can!

Snack Time

2012-01-02T13:18:00.001-06:00

I didn't add breakfast or lunch to this week's menu plans because the children return to school tomorrow. They eat both meals at school. For me and Rickey, breakfast is a fend-for-yourself. Lunches are usually sandwiches or left-overs. Sometimes, I will eat soup.

This week's snacks:
Drizzling molasses over the biscuits left from breakfast this morning.
caramel corn
granola bars
Little Debbie cakes
I also have a order of Austin Cookies/Crackers & Juicy Juice from Amazon that should be here at the end of the week. Thank you, Swagbucks!

While the children take their snacks to school in a lunch bag, Rickey takes his lunch to work every day. They all enjoy something a little sweet or salty. To hold us to dinner time, we often have an after-school snack as well. It does get a little expensive so we found a few things that helps us during the week.

1. Use a thermos filled with tap water, flavored water, juice, or flavored drinks (like kool-aide) for school snacks.

2. We do occasionally buy the small bottles of water (8oz) only to refill them until they are wore out or thrown away.

3. We buy regular boxes of crackers, packs of chips & pretzels, and cookies. We separate them into individual containers or snack bags.

4. We do buy granola bars, cereal bars, and snack cakes when we have a coupon or they are on sale. These are great to have on hand when we run out of home-made snacks!

5. What we do most is make home-made snacks. Cookies, (cup)cakes w/o frosting, muffins, and popcorn. Caramel corn never lasts around here!

6. We eat lots of fresh fruits for snacks too!

7.Our favorite way to save... use Amazon gift cards that we win from Swagbucks.
Can't beat free!!!

Maybe some of these idea will help you save!

Menu Plan Monday - Jan 2, 2012

2012-01-02T05:10:00.015-06:00

Linking to I'm an Organizing Junkie

MONDAY

shake-n-bake chicken legs

corn on the cob

fried okra

TUESDAY

mac & cheese

hot dogs w/ kraut

sweet potato fries

WEDNESDAY

cranberry turkey roll ups

chips

Original recipe uses pecans which we are leaving out.

THURSDAY

grilled chicken

broccoli & ramen noodles

FRIDAY

simple pizza casserole

doubling recipe

SATURDAY

soup & sandwiches

SUNDAY
hamburger & french fries
and a.... milkshake made with the ice cream left from Amberly's birthday.
(Unless the family eats it all before Sunday.)

New Year Resolutions?

2011-12-31T10:40:00.001-06:00

I really don't make any New Year Resolutions because I can't keep them. But during January, I want to do a little cleaning out & organizing. For example... I have a 1 in. binder that has school menus, recipes clipped from magazines, a bunch of recipes & E-books that have printed from various websites. I also have recipes in a recipe box. These have to be sorted and thinned out.

What I would like to do with that binder is to use it for Menu Planning. I want to add divided taps to it so I can keep my pantry and freezer inventory lists, a menu plan, and recipes separate. I also want to keep the family favorite recipes from the ones we haven't tried yet.

Another area that I would like to clean out is my set of plastic storage drawers with all my "office supplies" in it. One drawer is stuffed with monthly statements. Another one is stuffed with assorted papers that also needs to be cleaned out. There are several more areas in my home that I would like to organize better... my bathroom, the children's rooms, and the entertainment center. Even though it is really not resolutions maybe I can get all accomplished before January is over.

Wish me luck!

Price Comparisons

2011-12-28T06:37:00.001-06:00

This morning I woke up early again. Since I couldn't go back to sleep, I got online and made a price comparison spreadsheet. In 2012, we are going to try to eliminate the first half of our debt with our income tax refund. It all depends how much of a refund we get back. But... we are going to pay as much as possible and then go "Dave Ramsey" style for the rest.

One way that we are going to work harder on getting that debt paid off quickly is to watch every little penny we spend. That is where that price comparison worksheet comes in. When we go to buy groceries, we usually go to Piggly Wiggly which is about 2 minutes from our house. Other times we go to Aldi's, Winn Dixie, and as a last resort Walmart. We love shopping at Aldi's because it is so much cheaper. Winn Dixie has awesome BOGO free meat items that we stock the freezer up when we go. But... Aldi's is 38-50 minutes away depending on which way we go and Winn Dixie is about 40 minutes away.

My decision is to either go out of the way to get much cheaper or stick to "The Pig" as we call it. I know that we go to Aldi's and Winn Dixie when we take the children to the doctor's office since it is in the general area but we don't go that often. Usually every 3-4 months with a different child. We live in between two Walmart Supercenters, one which Rickey works at, but it is so much higher than the grocery store. I do have to admit... there is a couple of things that are cheaper, but for the most part it is not worth going up there for groceries. Household items, yes! Rickey usually brings home things that we have to have when he gets off work.

I am trying to learn how to play the drugstore games so we can save there. It is taking me a really long time! But I have been able to stockpile a few laundry items and dish washing detergent by shopping at them. It may be smaller bottles, but I am still coming out better because I also use a coupon when I can.

It really helps having the price comparison sheet as a guide to get the best prices. Right now I only have grocery items on it with 1 paper product. I am going to add everything we buy as soon as I buy it or find receipts. Anything to save money... right?

Menu Plan Monday

2011-12-26T09:34:00.002-06:00

Linking to... I'm An Organizing Junkie

We are taking the week to relax after a wonderful Christmas. Our meals will be very simple because we are going to be using what we already have it. Trust me... it is slim pickings! The only things that we will be getting at the grocery store is milk, eggs, and bread.

BREAKFASTS:

(A rotation with fruit, sausage, bacon, grits, or gravy to be added to any meal.)

1. eggs with toast or biscuits

2. pancakes or waffles

3. hot or cold cereal

4. muffins, smoothies

LUNCHES:

1. sandwich of choice w/ chips

2. leftovers

3. soup or canned pasta with a sandwich (depending on the soup of choice).

SUPPERS:

(We plan 7 meals, but choose which one to eat around our happenings each day.)

1. home-made chili

Just have to say that we had a chili bar set up at mom's on Christmas Eve. My sister-in-law's chili is the BEST EVER and has put me in the mood for more!

2. chicken quesadillas, rice - We didn't get to these last week.

3. BBQ sandwich, baked beans, french fries

4. bean soup w/ smoked sausage, cornbread

5. Casserole of the Day, rolls

6. Rice-a-Roni, turkey, broccoli

7. ~~sandwich of choice~~
Found a pack of pork chops in the freezer!!! We will have country-fried chops, Au gratin potatoes, turnip greens, & cornbread.

After The Holiday

2011-12-26T08:37:00.000-06:00

Did ya'll realize that this is the last Monday of the year? I can't believe how fast 2011 went by! This year my family has seen a lot of good and bad things. We still count our blessings because "the bad" could have been worse than it was. I think we are all ready to start a brand new year. There are going to be several changes that we make that will be better for the whole family. Can't wait to get started!

As for this last week, we are slowing down considerable. We had a wonderful Christmas that we spent with almost the whole crew on both sides. We did have a few rough patches with an older family member going missing, and then passing on the next day. My Grandpa was in the hospital with two blood clots and towards the end of the week was placed into the nursing home for rehab. Granny was placed into the room with him as she no longer can stay alone. It was a sad occasion because one of my favorite memories growing up (and that my children enjoyed up to this year) was gathering together with mom's side of the family for Christmas. Unfortunately, that didn't happen this year. I remember last year that I almost didn't take my camera but decided to go ahead. I am now so glad that I did because it seems that will be our last huge get-together for Christmas.

We still were busy as if we did go to Granny and Grandpa's because we spent that time with Rickey's brothers & sister. In years past, we did spend time with Rickey's family but it was always after we left Granny's house. This time we were able to spend all afternoon & evening with them! I honestly NEEDED that time spent with family. My heart was breaking with not being together with mom's family. Our time with my immediate family on Christmas Eve just wasn't enough. My suggestion to everyone... spend time together no matter what because it could be your very last time!

Well, it is time for me to encourage the children to eat a bowl of cereal while I plan out our menu for the week. We have slim pickings and no money to replenish anything except for the milk, eggs, & bread. It is going to be a use-what-you-have week. Check back later for that and maybe you can catch a glimpse of some Christmas pictures too!

7 Years Ago...

2011-12-23T05:49:00.026-06:00

I received a wonderful & early Christmas gift from God.

A precious baby girl!

Happy Birthday, Amberly!

Expect a Little Quietness...

2011-12-20T16:21:00.000-06:00

For I will be making memories with my children.

(I have a little scheduled post for Friday.)

We will be...

having a birthday party

drinking hot chocolate

making cookies

getting together with relatives

opening presents

laughing

playing

but the most important thing...

Remembering a special birth.

The Birth of Jesus!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-12-19T07:33:00.002-06:00

I'm an Organizing Junkie

BREAKFASTS

(rotated with any of these sides... grits, gravy, fresh fruit, sausage and/or bacon)

eggs w/ toast or biscuits

hot or cold cereal

pancakes or waffles

LUNCHES

sandwiches, chips

any left overs from the night before

soup or canned pasta

SUPPERS

19 - Reheating the left-overs from church dinner that we were sent home with!

20 - hot dogs, french fries

21 - Christmas with Rickey's dad & stepmom (no cooking for me!)

22 - chicken quesadillas, rice

23 - Amberly's 7th. Birthday! pizza, cake, ice cream

24 - Christmas @ Nanna's - chili and soup bar w/ plenty of sweets

25 - Christmas @ Granny's - covered dish w/ plenty of sweets

Smiley360

2011-12-17T20:11:00.000-06:00

I just joined Smiley360! I am so excited to be part of this. I have heard that you get to try brand spanking new products and I always love trying new things. Look it up yourself and see if you would like to join!

16 Years... Yesterday!

2011-12-17T07:12:00.000-06:00

This morning I was up at the crack of dawn. I didn't sleep well the night before and was busy all day long yesterday. I was so tired that I must have slept hard until around 4:30am. After I wake up I just can't lay there. My old bones start hurting. So I got up and fixed Rickey breakfast! Ha!

Normally on Saturday's, I like to sleep in a while. I am not late sleeper, but I do like to sleep until around 7 or so. I know what you are thinking... I go to bed with the chickens. You are right, I do! Really! I have never been a night owl! Anyways... I get those quick frozen breakfast meals for mornings that Rickey goes to work early. Every one of the Hot Pockets meals are his favorite! They happen to be the children's favorites too and they ate the last pack for supper the other night. Rickey is a night owl, so he doesn't do well in the mornings! I knew that he would be rushed so I just went ahead and made breakfast while he got ready. They say opposites attract! Must be true because yesterday we celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary!

I love you, babe!

A Hiccup In Plans

2011-12-15T07:15:00.000-06:00

I was going to make a huge grocery trip within the next couple of day. But... we had a hiccup in our scheduled plans so a little adjustment was needed. There is still plenty of food in the deep freeze so the big trip could be postponed until Monday. We do need a few things to get us through the weekend. Milk, sugar, tea bags, and fresh produce. Rickey can pick up those on his way home from work. He tends to stick to a list better than I do. Waiting will also give me plenty of time to figure out what Amberly wants for her birthday dinner on Friday night. She has been pretty vague other than the drumstick ice cream cones. I have to admit... she has good taste!

Freezer Clean-Out Menu

2011-12-13T18:27:00.005-06:00

I'm an Organized Junkie

This week our menu will revolve around purging the left-overs out from our two freezers. I need to clean out as much as possible before this weekend. If you must know what we ate last night, pb&j sandwiches. I know... thrilling! We didn't get anything out of the freezer except for ice cream sundae cups. Ice cream always makes a long day better!

Tonight - hash brown casserole, smoked sausage, pancakes.
I am purging out half a bag of shredded cheese, hash browns, pancakes, & 1/2 of a smoked sausage link. Making hash brown casserole with smoked sausage for the adults. There is just enough pancakes for everyone.

Wednesday - BBQ sandwich , waffle fries.
Purging 1/2 package of hamburger buns, one of the storage container of roast beef (2 cups worth) which was left over from Rickey's Sunday School Christmas party, quart sized bag of waffle fries. Kids will eat another pb&j with chips or a bowl of cereal. They don't like BBQ!

I have to mention that the party was catered by my favorite BBQ joint and I really appreciate whoever sent a big ol pan full of BBQ home with him. There was enough for several meals!

Thursday - spaghetti with meat sauce, garlic toast
Pulling out 1/2 lb of ground beef to add to the pasta sauce which is also in the freezer. I also have pre-made garlic toast.

Friday - chicken tenders, sweet potato fries, & rolls
All three pulled out from the deep freeze!

Saturday - We have a last minute rehearsal for our Christmas program at church so we will be grabbing fast food afterwards.

Sunday - Christmas dinner at church. Taking finger foods and a cake.

Casserole of the Day

2011-12-12T07:56:00.001-06:00

This is my go-to casserole when I need something quick and simple. This recipe came from a church cookbook that I have had for like... forever! Now I don't usually measure anything because this casserole is a great way to use up left-overs. I never have the same amount of anything left so I toss in whatever I have. The best part is that frozen veggies will work great in this casserole. It is quick and very kid-friendly!

Any pre-cooked meats: ground beef, turkey, chicken, pork, ham, or sausage.

A "cream of" soup that is compatible with the meat of choice.

You will need some kind of pasta or rice. I pre-cook mine for a quicker meal!

Compatible cheese.

Chopped onion.

You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, water chestnuts, and any additional green veggie.

Seasonings of choice

Preheat oven to 350-400 degrees.
Mix all ingredients of choice together and empty into a prepared baking dish. Top with crushed crackers or bread crumbs and melted butter. Bake until bubbly and topping is toasted.

Uhmmm... Someone Used My Camera

2011-12-07T07:18:00.000-06:00

We woke up this morning to find Gordy, Bobby, and several friends using my camera! They took several pictures which you can see on Flickr if you like. I put them over there because 21 pictures is too many to add to a post. Can you believe that... 21 Pictures!!! And... I have to recharge my batteries on top of all their fun! It's not that I have time today for all this! I mean with all my normal cleaning duties, laundry, Christmas shopping, and other errands.

Reading

2011-12-03T06:40:00.000-06:00

Gordy loves to read!

Do you know how we know?

We found him in our basket of Christmas books!

And... he was reading to his Christmas friends.

Quess which book...

The Littlest Christmas Elf!

Meet "Gordy"

2011-12-01T14:17:00.000-06:00

Gordy will be joining our family all the way through Christmas!

He even came with a letter from Santa...

Hope received an Elf on the Shelf last year from her teacher, but unfortunately couldn't be found.

Apparently... she got into trouble at the North Pole!

Easy Applesauce Muffins

2011-11-24T06:36:00.000-06:00

We love muffins here! They are quick for breakfast. Make wonderful snacks and freeze beautiful! This recipe is very kid-friendly and that is what I have been looking for. I am slowly allowing the children help prepare our meals. Muffins are the most simple recipe for a first time baker!

Easy Applesauce Muffins
6 tablespoons of butter
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
2/3 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 cups of chunky applesauce

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with baking cups and set aside. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter on high for about 30-60 seconds: set aside to cool slightly. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt into a large mixing bowl. When mixing dry and wet ingredients for muffins, gently stir just until the flour disappears. This will produce muffins with a nice crumbly texture. In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs and brown sugar. Stir in the applesauce and melted butter until the mixture is smooth. For mess-free muffins, use an ice cream scoop to spoon the batter into the bake cups. Pour the apple mixture over the flour mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until combined. Fill the baking cups about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 20 minutes or until light brown. Insert knife in the middle to check if they are done.

Baked French Toast

2011-11-23T06:52:00.000-06:00

1/2 cup of butter

1 cup of brown sugar

1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

bread - stale is better

6 eggs

1 1/2 cup of milk

dash of salt

Melt butter in a 9x13 baking dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon. Cover with bread. Beat eggs with milk and salt. Pour over bread. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until eggs are done. This is good!

Next Christmas...

2011-11-15T16:23:00.000-06:00

This past weekend all my family gathered at mom's for a cook-out. We took time to draw names for Christmas. While we were speaking on the subject, Christmas 2012 was casually brought up with an idea. Our family discussed that instead of buying presents for each other, why not we all go to the Smokey Mountains! It was a well received idea that I am very excited about. I haven't been to the Smokies since before I had the children and my oldest is almost 13. I am a beach kind of girl! From what I have heard... everything has changed up there! I know that it is over a year before we go, but I am already looking forward to it.

And of course, looking that far ahead gives us all time to save money for the trip!

Pumpkin-Orange Pancakes

2011-11-02T07:11:00.000-05:00

This past weekend I was going to make pumpkin-chocolate chip muffins for breakfast. The children wasn't in the mood for muffins. In fact they down right protested them! Just kidding. Since they wasn't complaining about how hungry they were, I decided to go online to search for a new recipe using pumpkin. I found many good recipes. I finally decided on one that was quick. Pumpkin-Orange Pancakes.

I am not going to share the recipe because you can just click the link to print for yourself. But what I loved the most about it was that the recipe used baking mix. I almost always have baking mix on hand. I love making everything home-made, but there is times that I need to be super quick about it so I use baking mix helps. If you don't have Bisquick (or the store-brand baking mix that I normally use), you can do a google search and make find a way to make baking mix... home-made!

Apple Cinnamon Waffles

2011-10-02T06:48:00.000-05:00

Usually on a Sunday we grab cheese toast, nutella toast, or a muffin for breakfast. But... this morning I woke up in enough time to make waffles for the family. Don't get too excited, it is simple as apple pie! I simply make up a batch of waffle batter and add a grated apple and cinnamon to it!

Ingredients that I don't measure:

self-rising flour
egg
buttermilk/milk
1/8 cup or less of sugar (Sweeten to your taste because we don't use sugar-free syrup.)
grated apple
cinnamon
splash of cooking oil

Blend together and pour into waffle iron. We are serving it with the leftover ham that I baked a couple of weeks ago this morning, but bacon or sausage would be just fine too!

Courageous

2011-09-30T10:03:00.000-05:00

Me and Rickey have a wonderful Sunday afternoon planned. After our morning church service we are stopping by Little Caesars to grab a $5. pizza. We are proceeding to my mom's house where we will gratefully bum a soft drink or a glass of sweet tea to eat with our lunch. Then we leave the children with mother while we go on our date! Actually if you look at it... a double date!

We have been invited by some dear friends to see the movie "Courageous" and I am so excited. We haven't been to the movies without the kids in long time. To top it off, we will be in the fellowship of wonderful Christian friends that we haven't seen in a while. I am looking forward to playing catch-up and to seeing this great movie!

Chicken Pot Pie

2011-09-27T17:10:00.000-05:00

Little did I know over the weekend just how much I would need a quick and simple meal for tonight. Not that there is anything dramatic going on, I am just tired. I need some good comfort food every once in a while and chicken pot pie happens to be one of my favorites. It is so easy to pull together.

What you need: mixed veggies, favorite cream of (fill-in-the-blank) soup, chicken or turkey, seasonings of choice and a pack of 2 pie shells. Tonight... I used 2 cans of store band (salt free ) mixed veggies that I drained, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup or so of cooked & shredded chicken that was in the freezer, a dash of onion powder, a dash of seasoning salt, and a frozen pie crust.

Mix together your veggies, soup, seasonings, and chicken. Pour into the bottom pie shell and top with the other. Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for about 30-40 minutes. But watch your edges of the pie crust because you don't want them to brown too much. Just place al. foil around them if they do! Serve with some fresh fruit.

A Ham on Sale

2011-09-16T11:52:00.000-05:00

We love ham. We can eat it all year long but unfortunately they don't go on sale except for around a holiday like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas! Like most everyone, we don't buy them unless they are on sale. We just can't afford the luxury that a Cook's ham is to us. Luckily... they were on sale last week at my local grocery store. You better believe that I got one!

Now when I bake a ham, we usually eat it for a couple meals then place the rest into the freezer for later. Our favorite meals with ham is when it is served with home-made buttermilk biscuits and gravy! Morning, night, or noon... no kidding! We also love it served with plain old mac & cheese! I was curious to see what else might sound good with ham, so I went searching!

BREAKFAST:
A Baked Ham & Cheese Omelet Roll sounds like a wonderful weekend breakfast! Served with a side dish of fresh fruit and I would win the "mother-of-the-year" award with my family. Just kidding, but they would love it!

Sometimes we need a quick breakfast around here and Ham & Egg Skillet would be just that when using the frozen cubed potatoes!

Another quick breakfast idea is Ham and Egg Breakfast Cups! This recipe calls for deli ham but I would think you could swap out left-over ham for it.

LUNCH:
I am all up for trying this Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup.

Holiday Ham (Slow Cooker) This recipe is a definite keeper. Not only does it include pineapple, but it is cooked in the slow cooker! The perfect Sunday lunch!

A kid-friendly lunch... Ham & Cheese Crescent Rolls.

Grilled Ham & Cheese with Pineapple... yes, please!

SUPPER:
It has been cooler here for the past few days so that has got me in the mood for some heavier, stick-to-your-ribs type meals. I think a Baked Ham Rigatoni would be awesome!

Another one for the slow cooker... Crockpot Scalloped Potato & Ham.

The perfect side dishes with Crockpot Maple Ham would be sweet potatoes and green beans!

I hope you enjoy these recipes because it sure has made me hungry for that ham in the freezer. I think I will pull it out and bake it this weekend!

Fear of Fire

2011-09-06T11:27:00.000-05:00

Sixteen days ago, the mobile home beside us caught on fire and was completely destroyed. The heat did some major damage to our mobile home and minor damage to Rickey's truck. Our insurance placed us into a motel for the week while the damage to the wires and mobile home were inspected. We are still working out some details with the insurance companies before the damage can be repaired but thankfully, we are back in our home now. Praise the Lord, there doesn't seem to be any damage to the wiring. I truly believe that angels protected us that early Sunday morning.

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Psalm 91:11

As the week passed, we kept the children in a normal-as-possible routine. They got up and went on to school, did homework as they ate an afternoon snack, then went to sleep at the regular time. We did talk to the children about the fire. We made sure that we answered all their questions and all three seemed to deal with the aftermath extremely well. There was no fears except for mine. Yes, I was afraid to come home! But I prayed and gave my fears to the Lord. In return, He gave sweet peace by leading me to Psalm 91:11. Trust me... the first night I was able to sleep in my bed, I repeated the verse over and over again until I fell asleep. And it wasn't the first night back at home either.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5: 6-7

Last night as the remnants of Tropical Storm Lee came through our area, the power was knocked off for a short time. The children listen to their radios at bedtime so when the power went off, they got up because they "couldn't go to sleep". As I pulled the candles out and lit them so we could see, Hope started crying. We asked her what was wrong and she told us that she was afraid that the candles were going to catch the house on fire. The mobile home fire bothered her in a way that we never suspected until that moment. We quickly told her that the candles were secure in the candlesticks and they wouldn't fall out and catch anything on fire. We prayed until Hope got the assurance she needed from the only One who could truly comfort her. I am so thankful that we trust in a God who loves us, protects us, and gives us just what we need. Praise the Lord!

I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4

Thankful

2011-08-24T12:23:00.000-05:00

Early Sunday morning, the mobile home beside us caught on fire. It was so hot and extreme that our home received damage. If the firetrucks had been a even a few minutes later, we would have lost ours too. It was that close. I am so thankful that the Almighty God surrounded with His arms. That... was the only thing that kept us from burning!

I have my family. I am thankful!

A motel to call home {for now}. I am thankful!

Clothes to wash and food to eat. I am thankful!

A God who protects. I am very thankful!

Please keep us in your prayers!

Sad... But Rejoicing!

2011-08-20T14:24:00.000-05:00

Please remember the family of Mrs. Barbara Camper. She went to our heavenly Home this past week. The one that we only can dream of here below. We have been so blessed to have spent many years as part of her church family. A wonderful and loving Christian woman that will be missed greatly.

Home

Home is where the heart is
My heart’s on home
Though I’ve never really had one
to call my own.
But I’ve been given a key
By the carpenter of Galilee
With interest paid, the title’s made to me.

CHORUS
Home, where there is no night
Home, where the sun is the light.
The place I’ve been dreaming of so long.
Loved ones stand to welcome me
But His sweet face will be the first I’ll see.
When my journey’s over
I am goin’ home.

Everybody dreams
Of going home, it seems
Lately, I am no exception
To the rule
Oh, but home is so much more
Than windows, walls and doors
It’s a warm embrace
Where the smiling face
Is waiting you.

Berry Cobbler

2011-08-08T12:39:00.000-05:00

Last night we had Fellowship Dinner at church after the evening service. I decided to make a berry cobbler. It was a last-minute-decision-use-what-was-on-hand type of cobbler. Let me tell you... it was a hit! And for those who asked for the "recipe" last night... this is for you!

I had a partial bag of frozen strawberries and one of frozen blueberries. I am sure you can use whatever berries you have. I just happened to have these two types. Blackberries were mentioned last night!!! I emptied the two bags of still frozen berries into a buttered casserole dish and added about 1/2 cup (or more) of sugar on top. Gave it a quick stir and popped it into the microwave to start the berries thawing as I made the topping. Of course, my microwave is old as the hill and didn't completely thaw out the berries. It is OK if they don't thaw!

The topping is an old time cobbler recipe... 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of flour, and 1 cup of milk stirred smooth. I poured this over the berries and put small amounts of butter on top. I baked the cobbler for 30 minutes at 375 degrees! As the top started browning a little too fast, I turned the oven down to 350 for the last 10-15 minutes.

Everybody at church seemed to love it and wanted me to make more! I thought it was a little too sweet but I will make it again. Who knows... next time it might be different berries. You will just have to come to church the 1st. Sunday night in Sept. to find out!

Springdale Baptist Church

Henderson Road

Boaz, AL

Sunday Morning Service w/ Sunday School - 9:45am

Sunday Evening Service w/ Prayer Room - 4:45pm

1st. Sunday Night of each month - Fellowship Dinner (after service)

3rd. Sunday Evening Singing w/ Prayer Room - 5:45pm

Wednesday Evening Service - 6:30pm

Blessed Assurance

2011-06-27T11:23:00.000-05:00

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.

Perfect submission, perfect delight,
visions of rapture now burst on my sight.

Angels descending, bring from above,
echoes of mercy, whispers of love.

Perfect submission, all is at rest,
I in my Saviour am happy and blest.

Watching and waiting, looking above,
filled with His goodness, lost in His love.

This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Saviour all the day long;

This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Saviour all the day long.

Last night Matthew couldn't sleep. He came into the living room and told us that he wanted to pray because he wasn't sure that he was saved. We asked him why he was questioning it and then we fell on our knees. We prayed for an answer but he wasn't satisfied. We talked for a while and then we prayed again. Matthew got up still unsure so we told him that it didn't matter how long we had to stay on our knees in prayer as long as he received the answer. If Matthew was indeed saved, we prayed that God would give him the assurance he needed. However if he wasn't, we prayed that he would ask Jesus into his heart. To us... it really doesn't matter when Matthew receives salvation, as long as he knows without a doubt that he did! My heart was breaking because I knew that I couldn't do anything for him. This was something that was between the Lord and Matthew. All I could do is pray that God would hear his prayers and answer him. As a mom it is very hard knowing that you have no control of what happens. You wish that you could fix it, but it doesn't work that way. Only God has that power.

After we prayed and prayed until nearly mid-night, Matthew got his answer! This morning one of the first things out of his mouth was... "I'm saved!" Whether it was a few years ago when it happened or last night, he has the blessed assurance.

Library/Doctor's Visit

2011-06-23T17:50:00.000-05:00

While a certain ~~boy~~ young man was at his yearly check-up, the girls enjoyed spending time at "Nanna's Library". (My mom works at the small library close to her house.) The Summer Reading Program is going on and we haven't had the chance to go yet. It worked out perfectly because while I took Matthew to the doctor, the girls spent time with mom and meet the author/illustrator, Chris Rumble. They had a blast! He even autographed the books that the girls purchased.

Matt didn't enjoy his time alone with mom. He had a good report from his check-up, but the poor fella had to get a few shots. I made it up to him by letting him choose the brand/flavor of popsicles at the grocery store. And... the girls don't know this, but he ate one as soon as we got to the car. He may or may not get another one after supper. (Shots have always made him sleepy.)

Baking Day

2011-06-17T19:07:00.000-05:00

After many days of 90+ degree heat, we welcomed a rainy (and sometimes stormy) day when the temp stayed in the 70's. I decided that since the house wouldn't be unbearable, I would use this time to get in a little baking. As in goodies, not us!

Unfortunately... the power was kicked off by one of the storms that came through so I didn't get much accomplished. I did manage to get coconut bars and a wonderful chicken and rice casserole made. We ate half of the casserole for lunch and I placed the rest into the freezer. The coconut bars were demolished by mid afternoon. Of course that is nothing unusual here.

I did manage to get home-made muffin mix prepared for the freezer. I just mixed the dry ingredients together and placed them in a container that will fit into the freezer. When we are in the mood for muffins, all I will have to do is add the wet ingredients as well as any extras. It makes a quick breakfast or snack.

So what did you do with your day?

VBS Totals

2011-06-13T08:27:00.000-05:00

SeaQuest: Diving for God's Treasure 1-Day VBS

31 children

14 adults

Everyone's Prayers & Hard Work

One Soul Saved

PRAISE THE LORD!

VBS

2011-06-01T10:06:00.000-05:00

We have one more week until VBS starts. Like last year, we are having another 1-day event. It makes for one very long day, but it is so worth it in the end! We had three children to accept the Lord into their hearts last year and many more seeds planted. I am hoping that this year is as successful if not more! There is still a lot do to and plan, but it is all coming together beautifully. I am so excited!!!

Daily Schedule for Summer

2011-05-28T15:59:00.000-05:00

If I didn't have something showing what we are doing each day this summer, the kids would drive me nuts. I think it is because of being in school a routine is established. So this morning I made a schedule to hang on the fridge or bulletin board for the kids to check however many times they would like. This is what it looks like...

We will start our morning at 8:00am. This means that anytime before that you should be sleeping! Of course that won't happen in my household, but the children will be responsible for getting dressed for the day. And perhaps make their beds! Yeah, I am dreaming. Anyways... at 8 o'clock, I will start making breakfast and then clean up the kitchen after we eat.

9:00am - Clean-Up Time! We will strip down or make the beds if it hasn't already been done. The children will be asked to put all dirty clothes & towels in the hamper to be washed, clean their rooms, and help with any other chores that is needed for the day. My part will be the washing/drying/folding clothes, starting lunch/supper, cleaning bathrooms, etc.

10:00am - Mommy's computer time while children play. I will check my emails, see what is going on in the social networks, and pay bills. I will also print anything needed for the day.

11:00am - Matthew's computer time while girls continue to play. I will start lunch if I didn't do it while cleaning the breakfast dishes.

11:30am - Lunch and Bible devotional time.

12:00pm - After lunch, I will clean up the kitchen including sweeping and mopping while children pick up whatever they dragged out before. They will also put away any folded clothes and hanging clothes.

1:00pm - Siesta time. Since this is the hottest part of the day, we will either read a book, watching a quiet movie, and/or {hopefully} take a nap.

2:30pm - Snack time.

3:00pm - Amberly's computer time while the others play. Me... Bible time.

3:30pm - Creativity time. We will sew, craft, draw, paint, color, do word finds/searches, cross word puzzles, etc. We will also work on math games a few times a week. Did you know that children can lose between 1-3 months of information during summer vacation?

4:30pm - Hope's computer time while I start/finish supper.

5:00pm - Supper time.

6:00pm - One last clean-up time for the day. If I hadn't already started cleaning the kitchen, it will be done during this time. Baths will be started except on Wednesday's when we will have an earlier supper and bath time. Our church starts at 6:30 so we will be heading out the door at this time. Or we should be anyways.

After everything is accomplished, we will have our family time until it is bedtime! We will play games, go get an ice cream cone, watch TV {or movies}, play outdoors, etc. Of course all of this is subject to change due to errands, visitors, vacations, day trips or in the likelihood of emergencies.

Summer Break

2011-05-23T14:11:00.000-05:00

The children only have a few more days of school left for the 2010-2011 school term. They would have been out this week except that we are having to make up snow days. It is the season for those famous words.... "I'm bored". I am not really looking forward to that, but there is a few things that we do different during the summer breaks than we do any other time...

1. Bedtime is NOT 8:00pm. In fact, we encourage the children to stay up just a little longer so that they can sleep late the next morning! I mean... it is the lazy summer days... right?

2. Summer Reading Programs. I love to encourage my children to read and we have 3 libraries in our area. Because each library has a different reading program and activities, we try to join each one.

3. Paper Plates. Yep, I use them for just about for every meal during the summer.

4. Food. Our biggest meal changes from supper to lunchtime. Therefore, we eat a lot of sandwiches and salads for supper. We also use the slow cooker more than we do in the cooler weather. Seems odd, but like I said... we make a lot of sandwiches where the meat can be cooked slower... chicken salad, roast beef, etc.

5. During the school year, we buy individual snack items and drinks for the kids to take to school instead of spending $1.00 a day for 3 kids. Summer... we buy big jugs of juices, Hawaiian Punch, and other flavored drinks. We don't buy soft drinks a lot except for holidays or special occasions. But we do that all year long!

6. Siestas. Uhmmm yeah... if I am lucky!

7. Cook-Out. That was a no-brainer. When we do cook-out during the summer, we tend to go big in order to eat all week long. It just don't last that long because the kids are "starving". More famous summer words.

Actually we have a lot of fun family time. We don't often go on long vacations but rather day or week-end trips. The way Rickey works, it is hard for him to get off and we take it as we get it. Sometimes it is just me and the kids who take off with my sister, Deborah. And usually when we go off with her it is to my favorite place.... the beach!

Thank You, Lord!

2011-05-18T21:33:00.000-05:00

There is a song, "Thank you Lord, for your blessings on me" that we sang tonight at church. Perhaps you may know it. It is a beautiful song that I believe was written by the Easters. I have loved it from the very first time I heard. Tonight it held a different meaning.

As the world looks around me as I struggle along
They say I have nothing, but they are so wrong.
In my heart I'm rejoicing, how I wish they could see
Thank You, Lord, for Your blessings on me.

Yesterday morning a trailer beside us burned. Completely gutted all the way through. The trees on both sides of that trailer were scorched and we heard nothing. Not even the fire trucks. Thankfully no one was currently living in that trailer. We found out about it as soon as we stepped outside to take the children to the bus stop.

There's a roof up above me, I've a good place to sleep.
There's food on my table, and shoes on my feet.
You gave me Your love, Lord, and a fine family.
Thank you, Lord, for Your blessings on me.

A roof... Up above me...

This afternoon as Rickey was mowing our yard, he turned the corner of our trailer. The one that was closest to the burnt trailer. The master bedroom end of our trailer.

I've a good place to sleep...

The underpinning is melted.

I know I'm not wealthy and these clothes are not new,
I don't have much money, but Lord, I have You,
And to me You're all that matters tho' the world may not see.
Thank you, Lord, for Your blessings on me.

But Lord, I have You....

I have YOU...

The one night that we shared our bed with our youngest daughter, YOU protected us. Our trailer should have caught on fire but it didn't. YOU kept watch over us as we slept. The plans that YOU have for us are big... and I am ready!!!

Thank you, Lord for your blessings on me...

Working on VBS!

2011-05-14T09:04:00.000-05:00

This weekend I will be working on VBS because we have less than a month to prepare. We are having our 1-day VBS on June 11th. I am so excited because the VBS Curriculum came in this past week. There is a lot to do and plan, but with revival week over I can totally focus on VBS.

The theme is SeaQuest: Diving for God's Treasure! It was one of last year's themes.

I have heard many good things about the VBS. I have glanced through it yesterday and I really like it! As I am writing this post, 633 pictures are being uploaded to my computer from the Director's Disc. I know I won't use all the pictures, but I will have them when I need it! There is even color pictures and I don't think I have seen that before, but this is just my 3rd. year directing.

Some of those pictures are transparencies that I probable won't use unless I go to my sister Deborah's church where they have the machine for the transparencies. I might be able to talk to Amberly's teacher and see if the school has one that I can use before they get out for summer. Anyways... I will be working a lot of VBS and I will share my ideas and progress as it gets closer! If you have any ideas for decorating with an under the sea theme, toss them my way! All I have is one for decorating the stage... hanging different shades of blue streamers down from the ceiling for "water" and Deborah is going to show me how to make jellyfish using iridescent tissue paper. Cool, huh! She even suggested using clear Christmas ornaments as bubbles!

All Is Well

2011-05-02T11:36:00.000-05:00

All I can do at the moment is say... we are blessed. We left our home (trailer) last Wed. morning after the tornado came through and hit the Guntersville State Park. Although we live in Albertville, we actually live close enough to where we felt the wind from that storm. I am still not so sure that we didn't have a circulation above us. I was too afraid to look out the window. As soon as the storm passed, we left and went to an underground shelter. It did clear for a short time so we decided to go to a church member's house and wait out the rest of the storms. (We knew that it would get worse.) I believe that the only thing that kept their house safe with all of us, their family, and then another church member was prayer. All day long we watched as the storms left a destructive path. Each time they got close, we prayed and the storms passed around us. I don't think it even rained but 1 time. The family wouldn't let us leave as it drew late into the evening so we made plans to spend the night. We found out our power was knocked off that afternoon and little did we know that it would be yesterday before it came back on. 4 days without power. Thankfully, we had no damage at our home. We only lost what was in the refrigerator and freezer, but that is nothing compared to I am seeing on the TV. We are blessed.

1 Year Later

2011-04-22T17:13:00.000-05:00

This Sunday morning as we celebrate the resurrection of our dear Lord and Savior, we remember another event that changed our lives in a different way. It will be the 1-year anniversary of the EF3 tornado that destroyed our city.

I read some articles from our local newspaper today about the tornado and the memories brought tears to my eyes. I remember not knowing if our trailer was still standing. I remember the desperation of trying to reach our family and couldn't. I remember Hope being upset as she couldn't find her best friend. So many things have changed since the tornado. Store designs, landscapes, and especially the reactions of people when it gets stormy. Even my sister-in-law is terrified of storms. She used to think I was crazy when I left our trailer to seek shelter as bad weather approached. Now.... she calls me first.

When the tornado came through last April, it damaged much of the high school and middle school. The city school system didn't return to class for several weeks and then it was only if you could safely. Matthew and Hope did return since we live almost in the backyard of the Kindergarten school. The K-school shared the classrooms with the primary and elementary students for a while. But in the last few weeks of school, many children didn't return. Last Fall, the doors to the school system re-opened and it was a new beginning. I don't think the people of Albertville are completely healed from the emotional scars but this new school year helped Hope. She is in a class across the hall from her best friend. I remember the first time the girls talked after the tornado how emotional it was. But... they didn't actually get to see one another until the first day of school. I don't think there was a dry eye around.

As I remember the One who died for me on Sunday, I will also be praising Him for keeping us safe during the storm.

Read my posts about the tornado.

Birthday Boy

2011-03-24T05:33:00.000-05:00

Even in the beginning you were special!

The doctors said that you would never be.

"It would be better to lose and try again."

My heart screamed NO!

Let us try something else.

A prayer.

Glory to God!

He heard and answered!

12 years ago a babe laid in my arms,

hooked to every machine available.

Waiting to be transported to a better hospital,

I was supposed to say good-bye.

I couldn't so I said, "I will be there soon."

God told Daddy that you were special.

That everything would be alright.

I trusted!

Today we celebrate your birthday,

Still believing what God said.

You are very special,

in more ways than one!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MATTHEW!

{Very early into my pregnancy, I received a diagnosis of oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid). We had many tests without really finding the cause of why I had it. The doctors actually told us that they would do nothing to prevent a looming miscarriage. Matthew was born 2 1/2 weeks early and he was struggling to breathe. He was born with a pneumothorax, a hole in his lung. I didn't get to hold Matt after he was born since he was struggling for air. Not until the team from Children's Hospital in Birmingham arrived to transport him, was I able to hold Matthew. I remember how scared I was not knowing if this would be the last time I would see him alive. Do you know how hard it is to let your baby go without you? I hope you never have to. I wasn't released yet due to some complications and God hadn't told Rickey that everything would be ok at that time. The team left with Matthew. Rickey, a family friend, my oldest sister & mom followed behind. I wasn't left alone. I had God, my youngest sister, and dad. As my family arrived in Birmingham, the first thing that they did was go to the chapel and pray. That is when God spoke to Rickey and assured him that everything would be ok. Twelve years later, we know that Matthew does have ADHD, but everything is as God had said. It is OK and Matt is indeed very special! Thank you, Lord!}

Super Moon

2011-03-19T22:36:00.001-05:00

There really out to be, a sign upon my heart: Don't judge me yet, there's an unfinished part. But I'll be perfect just according to His plan, fashioned by the Master's loving hand.

He's still working on me... to make me what I ought to be. It took Him just a week to make the moon and stars, the sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars. How loving and patient He must be. He's still working on me.

In the mirror of His word, reflections that I see. Make me wonder why He never gave up on me. But He loves me as I am and He helps me when I pray. Remember He's the Potter and I'm the clay.

Dear Lord,

2011-03-13T07:26:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to praise you this morning! I want to thank you for your blessings. Most of all, I want to thank you for saving my soul! I have known all about you for as long as I can remember, but 22 years ago today you came to live within me. You opened the door to my troubled heart. You redecorated my heart, mind, and soul with sweet peace, love, understanding, compassion, and forgiveness. Oh, the joy that now over fills my heart. You have made me happier than anything ever could on this beautiful earth that you created. I love you so!

Thank you!
Jennifer

Part of My Story

2011-03-01T12:31:00.000-06:00

First off, I have to apologize if there is any grammer mistakes in this post because my hands are shaking so. I have to presence of God right beside me and if I don't write this post as it comes.. well I don't know what will happen.

Anyways I have to start at the beginning to tell you why I am feeling so excited and filled with the Holy Spirit.

I never was a rebellious teenager. The only wrong things I did was copy someone's homework, cheat on a test, and not wash dishes or clean house as instructed by my parents. I was very quiet, very shy, and awkward in school. I went to church and was saved in March of my Senior year of school. I never had a true date. It was only afterwards that I ever tasted the bitterness of alcohol and convicting power of God. When I finished high school in 1989, I moved in with my oldest sister as we went to a jr. college. (6-7 min. from parents). At the time I was still not rebellious, now working at walmart and going to college for my special education degree. Me and my sister lived in a garage apartment for about a year. I was having the time of my not-so-wild life! To me... living with my sister and paying our bills by ourselves was the highlight of my life!

Then Sandy moved off, got married and I moved back in with little brother, mom and dad. I quit school and started working full-time at walmart. I started dating here and there but wasn't "in love"! Then Sandy and her husband introduced me to a guy. Sam.

I really wished I could stop here, but I truly feel led to finish my story. This is going to be a long post.

Me and Sam started dating and I started rebelling! Against mom and dad! Against God! I dropped out of church, started drinking, and started a relationship that wasn't meant to be. I thought I had it all & knew it all. Only I didn't. I dated Sam for several years and fell head-over-heels in love with him. We took our relationship to a level that wasn't pleasing to God. It breaks my heart to know that in my rebellion I took something sacred away from the man who would end up to be my husband. All in a drunkard stupor that would be repeated many times. I don't blame him. I could have said no. It left so deep of a scar that I will try my best to keep my children from making the same mistake. All in the end of this rocky relationship came the heartache of mistrust and disappointment.

Today I am now happily married to a man God intended for me to be with for the rest of my life. A man who would be led by the Spirit to draw me back in to church and the loving arms of my Saviour. The forgiving arms! We have been truly blessed for 15 years.

The reason I write this post today is because I myself was led by God to invite Sam to church this Sunday. We haven't spoken to each other for a long time but are "friends" on facebook. He honestly feels that Rickey is the reason we broke up and it wasn't. What he doesn't know that in part of my rebellion that I had dated someone else before I even noticed Rickey. All the while leading him on to believe that we could maybe "work things out". In my heart, I knew that we wouldn't. I was tired of fighting against God, for love, and against my parents. God's loving rod of correction had me. Oh, how little did I know back then!

Even though it is only 5 days till Sunday, it is a long time. I am asking that you call out Sam's name when you pray. I truly believe that God has somehow or through someone, been working with Sam. I don't think He would have led me to invite him if He hadn't. I am scared that Sam will say no, but I am also excited to see what will happen. So please pray and pray hard for him. Even though my heart, mind, and soul belong first to God and then to Rickey, I still care for what happens to Sam.

Isaiah 44: 1-4

2011-01-30T08:46:00.000-06:00

Yet now hear, O Jacob my servant: and Israel, whom I have chosen:

Thus saith the Lord that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee; Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen.

For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:

And they shall spring up as among the grass, as willows by the water courses.

{Pictures taken yesterday at High Falls in North-East Alabama.}

It's Your 9th. Birthday!

2011-01-15T07:34:00.000-06:00

God made the world with
its towering trees, majestic
mountains and restless seas.

Then stopped and said, “It needs
one more thing...
someone to laugh, dance and sing.

To walk in the woods and gather
flowers, to commune with nature
in quiet hours."

So God created little girls,
with laughing eyes and
bouncing curls,

With joyful hearts and
infectious smiles,
enchanting ways and
feminine wiles,

And when He'd completed
the task he'd begun,

He was pleased and proud
of the job He'd done.

For the world, when seen
through little girl's eyes,

Greatly resembles paradise.
--unknown

Happy Birthday, my sweet precious Hope!

Playing in the Snow

2011-01-11T10:57:00.000-06:00

Oh yeah, we got about 4 1/2 - 5 inches of snow! It started Sunday night and kept going off and on yesturday. Rickey didn't even get to go to work and they closed the schools. That happens when you even just mention snow here in AL. People go crazy and run to the store for milk & bread! I do have to admit... I sent Rickey to the store to pick up a gal. milk, but it was only because we were totally out. I did tell him to go ahead and pick up some eggs while he was there.

I was the bad mom too. I made the children clean up their rooms before they got to go outside and play. But all was forgiven once we made it outside. Of course, hot chocolate w/ tons of mini marshmellows helped too! Today the children are out of school. Rickey made it to work but not in his normal area. He is helping to stock the shelves so all those "crazy people" can come and get their milk and bread. It is snowing once again. {Rick works at Walmart in Automotives.} He did call me to let me know that he made it to work and that he could leave at any time if the roads start getting bad again. Hopefully, he gets to work until just before dark.

Happy Birthday, Amberly!

2010-12-23T04:30:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it! My baby girl turns 6 today!

I remember the shock of being pregnant! I used fertility drugs with your brother and sister so I didn't think I would ever have another baby. But you... you were a huge surprise & blessing from God! We did have a bit of trouble to start with, but everything worked itself out until 23 days before you were due. God decided that it was time for you to be born. You were early and very tiny. We were so unprepared that we didn't have a bag packed. Didn't even have you a Christmas stocking to hang beside Matthew and Hope's. But that is ok, on Christmas Day 2004... the nurses came to our hospital room and took you back to the nursery for your final check-up before our release. They gave you a nice warm bath and dressed you for us. When they brought you back, the nurses had you all wrapped up and snuggled into a Christmas stocking! The same one that is hanging by the tree today. It was the most precious thing I had ever seen. Except for the first time I saw you! We love you!

Happy Birthday, my sweet baby girl!

2010-12-16T04:08:00.000-06:00

Happy 15th. Anniversary, Rickey!

Amberly's Pow-Wow & Thanksgiving Program

2010-11-20T08:27:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I wasn't brave enough to keep my camera out of auto. I did try! I will have to go about it with baby steps, folks. Anyways... I had a really good time with my baby girl. We got to feel some furs that Indians used as clothes and bags. There was a cool Timber wolf coat. Can I just say that it was HUGE! I never realized how big that they got. We got to see Indian clothes, jewelry, and some artifacts. The real-time Indians taught us how everything was used like bones for protection. Awesome time. After everyone joined in a Snack Dance, I ate lunch with Am & her class at the picnic tables. The parents who wasn't already there then joined the rest of us for the Thanksgiving program that the class put on. It was so cute!

Here are some of my favorite pictures of the day.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T09:20:00.000-05:00

My poor kids were very disappointed at the lack of candy they got this year. They did have lots of fun though. We first went to my mom and dad's church where they received a brand new bible and a few pieces of candy. We also ate supper down there. Your choice of many different kinds of soup and/or a hotdog. After leaving there, we went down to our old home church to their Fall Festival/Pastor Appreciation Dinner. We were invited to eat again, but I think everyone had their fill. I did grab me a slice of cake and some ice cream because I only ate one bowl of potato-cheesy soup. The children enjoyed a fish pond and a cake walk where they were rewarded with a variety of gifts, trinkets, and candy. They could have got a cupcake or a cake but they didn't do that. : ( The pastor from down there had made a caramel apple cake that sounded heavenly. His wife won it. I think it was rigged, lol ; ) The children really enjoyed being down there and seeing all their friends again. After leaving Noble Hill, we stopped by my oldest sister's house on the way home. So not much candy this year, but enough when combined to fill a small storage container.

Philippians 4:8 {KJV}

2010-09-23T11:41:00.000-05:00

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

This morning I started reading Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow. Right off the bat, it touched me. When I read the Philippians verse that was in the second paragraph, I knew it was meant for me to read this book. Here lately I have had too many negative thoughts.

No one cares... no one helps me... 2 field trips in a month, how are we going to manage to fund that... do I really have to go to that meeting where everyone has their nose up in the air... What... we are out of snacks, tea, milk, eggs AGAIN...., why me... etc

I am ashamed of my negative thoughts. I know that I have friends who are struggling with their finances more than what we are (real and online). We have church family who have lost a loved one, when we are all well. I can stand up and thank the Lord for saving my soul! I can feed my family. I wash their clothes and clean up after them. I can read my Bible when right now I have a mother-figure who is loosing her sight. I can have comfort at night knowing that my children are safe. I should celebrate that my two oldest children have professed to accepting Jesus in their heart. And in His time, my youngest will have the chance to accept pure love in her's. Oh, how I should praise Him all the time.

We heard recently that someone is going around saying Rickey is fake. Do I need to worry about that? No! Do I need to confront the person? No!

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Matthew 5:11
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. Matthew 5:44-55
Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me. John 15: 20-21

I need to stop worrying about what everyone else is saying. Even is Rickey was being fake about his calling to preach, only he will have to answer to that. I don't have to answer for it and neither will anyone else. That is between him and God. The only thing I know is... think positive! I know where we have been, I know what we have been through. Most of all, I know where I am going!!! If you are down and out, don't worry! I am praying for you because right now... I am thinking only of these things {Philippians 4:8}! I can't wait to hear about a good report!!!

♪ Unclouded Day ♪

2010-09-21T06:52:00.000-05:00

  O they tell me of a home far beyond the skies
O they tell me of a home far away
O they tell me of a home where no storm clouds rise
O they tell me of an unclouded day.

 O the land of cloudless day
O the land of an unclouded sky
O they tell me of a home where no storm clouds rise
O they tell me of an unclouded day.

 O they tell me of the King in His beauty there
And they tell me that mine eyes shall behold
Where He sits on the throne that is whiter than snow
In that city that is made of gold.

O they tell me that He smiles on His children there
And His smile drives their sorrows all away
And they tell me that no tears ever come again
In that lovely land of unclouded day.

Various Photos

2010-09-14T10:01:00.000-05:00

Both pictures were took at a nearby airfield

Hallie Kate

July 2010

Spur-of-the-moment trip to Gulf Shores, AL

April 2002

Special Day

2010-09-09T08:53:00.000-05:00

Today is my baby sister's birthday!

She is my very best friend and has been with me through thick and thin.

♥ I love you Deborah! ♥

May God bless you with many more birthdays!

More First Day of School Pictures

2010-08-13T10:12:00.000-05:00

My beautiful children waiting on the big cheese wagon.

{We were actually waiting for Matthew & Hope, but Amberly tagged along so we can get some pictures of them together! We took her after they got on their bus.}

Here is one with my niece!

Amberly getting off that afternoon.

{She looks so tiny!}

Hope getting off the bus!

I didn't get to get one of Matthew getting off, but I am afraid that he probable appreciates that fact!

A New Year, A New Beginning

2010-08-12T06:44:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, our city was destructed by a tornado last April. Most of destruction happened to our Middle and High schools. The school system just started a new school year yesturday! A bright attitude has been accepted system wide.

A New Year, A New Beginning

Amberly's First Day of School!

2010-08-11T14:53:00.000-05:00

My baby started Kindergarten! And I did really good, I haven't even cried one time. Me and Rickey went out to eat breakfast after we dropped Amberly off! I did start missing her shortly afterwards so I picked up the phone and called the school. I asked if they still needed some volunteers! Yes, they did!!! Do I really have to say how happy I was to hear that?

Ok!

I was really REALLY happy!

I even saw my baby (and my niece who also started Kindergarten) while I helped in the lunchroom! They were both doing great.

Silly Girls

2010-08-10T21:32:00.001-05:00

This afternoon Rickey and Matthew went to the barber shop for a haircut. Since we had just went by Walmart for a few groceries, I sat in the van with the girls. We wanted to keep the van cool so it wouldn't ruin the cold stuff. The girls got "bored" and started getting cranky so I needed a distraction. I pulled out my handy dandy camera and what do you know..... instant happiness!

Ready for Kindergarten?

2010-08-02T07:39:00.000-05:00

There is only 9 more days before I send my youngest off to Kindergarten. My heart is breaking, rejoicing, and deeply saddened all at the same time. What am I going to do without my baby? I am not sure, but I know that I will miss her very much and already I have the tears flowing. I can't help it. Amberly is ready to go. At least she says she is. Part of me wishes that she will crumble when I walk out that door next Wed. I will have no choice but to whisk her back home. I honestly don't think that will happen. I do know if someone else is crying {including me} it will affect how she reacts. When we went to the VBS at our friend's church, there was a little girl who started crying. Amberly kept looking back at her and I don't know if it scared her or if she just felt compassion. I am hoping that it was the compassion part.

When Amberly starts to Kindergarten, her teacher is amazing! She has the same teacher Hope had while she was in Kindergarten. We LOVE this teacher. She brings her Christian standards and values to her classroom. I am so excited that we are having her again. Amberly will do good in her classroom. She is a loving and caring person who shines out like a beam! We have absolutely nothing to worry about while Amberly is in her care.

Please pray for Amberly, her teacher, and her classmates as they start this brand new school year! It will be tough the first few days as they learn everything that they need to. Pray for me that I will be strong. At least until I can get to the car.

A Little Trip

2010-07-30T20:16:00.000-05:00

We took a little trip out of town. We left out Wed. late afternoon and traveled all the way to Cleveland, TN. We decided to spend the night there as we were about to drive into a storm. We had an awesome show of lightening to entertain us! How can something that is beautiful be so dangerous? We woke up the next morning still with no destination in view. We ate our free continental breakfast and headed out. I even "snuck" 2 bagels and packs of cream cheese out for "tougher times". The kids thought it was hilarious! I just knew that I would hear "I'm hungry" before we got back on the interstate.

The first place we stopped at was the Mayfield Dairy Farms in Athens, TN.

If you need somewhere to go for little or no money, this is the place. The tour of the factory is free! The only thing is... we all had to wear silly hair nets while on the tour.

That is the last photo we were allowed to take while on the tour. Mayfield didn't want us to give away all their "secrets" about how they made milk jugs, filled them up, then packaged them up. They sure didn't was us to taking pictures of how that wonderful ice cream is placed in their containers soft-serve style, then frozen solid in 90 min. It was an interesting tour!

After the tour we did go to the ice cream parlor to get us an ice cream.

Hope had strawberry cheesecake and Amberly had blueberry pie. Matthew had chocolate chip. {Got to love that face!} I had columbian cafe and Rickey had extreme moose tracks. If I can find a carton of the one I had, I would buy a dozen or more. It was delicious!

After we left from there, we still didn't know what we were going to do. So we just started driving. We ended up eating a picnic lunch by the Oceoo River.

After lunch, we watched some very brave souls ride the whitewater rapids down the Oceoo River!

It was a fun filled day! We had actually already started towards home when we got the phone call about Granny. I would have loved to stay longer, but I had another migraine in full force and was ready to sleep in my own bed. We got home around 5:30ish, I emptied the cooler, then crashed in bed around 6:30. I didn't even get up but once and then I went right back off to sleep till 7:00 this morning! I was tired.

Bike Riding at Nana's!

2010-07-19T19:54:00.000-05:00

My brother

Amberly

Hope

Nephew #2

Nephew #1

Matthew

Gran-Daddy {my dad}

I Wonder...

2010-07-14T13:19:00.000-05:00

12:03pm Sidney stepped inside the gates of pearl and spoke her first words ever! I wonder what they were...

I humbly ask that you pray for her family and loved ones in this time of sorrow.

UPDATE ON SIDNEY

2010-07-13T22:33:00.000-05:00

I have to tell the family that I am so sorry in misspelling Sidney's name.

With much sorrow, the family has decided to let Sidney go. The doctors came in while I was at the hospital and told the family that she had just very little activity at the stem of her brain. If she was to live off support, that it would be in the same state that she is in now. The family has decided to have her taken off life support and will have her organs harvested to in order to live through many others. This will happen at 11:00am in the morning. The ones who will receive those organs are very lucky. Sidney is a very special little girl. I have never seen her without a smile on her face. Please pray for the family as they are about to do the most difficult thing in their lives.

I am also asking you to pray for Sidney's brother. Tonight was the first time he has been to the hospital. He did very well when he was in Sidney's room but as soon as he walked out the door, he fell apart. I don't want to think about what it would be like to loose my sisters or brother at my age, but I could never imagine it for a 11 year child. He is taking it extremely hard and will so for a good while. Please say a special prayer for him.

Please Pray!

2010-07-13T17:29:00.000-05:00

This will be short! I am waiting on a ride to the hospital to be with Sydney's family. After some tests and trying to get any kind of a response, there has been no choice for the family but to take her off the machines. This family is hurting. I am asking all my friends to pray for them. Pray for our church as this is a beloved little child.

Such a Heavy Heart...

2010-07-12T07:30:00.000-05:00

After church yesturday afternoon, we learned about Sydney. She is the grand-daughter of one of our church members. Sydney comes to church with us when she is staying with her grandmother or her great-granddad. She is a special needs child.

Sydney was found in the family pool. No one knows how long she had been in there. Once they realized that she was in the pool, the family called for help. Sydney's heart had to be restarted twice. She was took to the ICU at Huntsville Hospital where she was placed on life support.

Here is an update from another church member's facebook page...

from Brenda...

UPDATE: JUST TALKED WITH SYDNEY'S GRANDMOTHER. LITTLE BRAIN ACTIVITY MEANS THEY ARE KEEPING HER TEMP DOWN SO SHE WON'T HAVE MUCH BRAIN ACTIVITY DUE TO AVOIDING SWELLING. SHE IS NOT, I REPEAT, NOT BRAIN DEAD!

They have her on an oscillating ventilator that is trying to shake loose the vomit in her lungs to expel it (sorry to the squeamish, but that's the facts!) from her lungs. The doctor is very experienced, and says she doesn't think she will pull through, but she also said she could be mistaken.

WE ALL KNOW WHAT GOD CAN DO, PLEASE PRAY AND LIFT UP THIS FAMILY AND THIS CHILD WITH PLEAS FOR HER LIVE AND NOT BE IN A VEGETATIVE STATE.

IT IS HORRIBLE FOR A CHILD TO DIE BEFORE THE PARENTS BUT IT IS MUCH MORE SO WHEN THE PARENTS BLAME THEMSELVES.
I'm appealing to all of you to bombard heaven with cries of "please not this way!" for the sake of the parents and the child. No parents should ever have to blame themselves for the death... of a child. God bless.

The facebook update was placed last night. So far this morning, we have heard nothing else. It is still a little early here, but I wanted to let everyone know so we can get prayers going up on behalf of the family. I will keep everyone updated through out the day across the top of my blog. Like someone said last night as we met around the altar, pray as if this was your child.

Dear Rickey...

2010-07-03T09:29:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful that you are the man that God chose to be my husband.

You have been such an inspiration in my life.

My strong tower, my best friend.

There is no better person to help me raise our children.

God knew what he was doing!

Not only do you love our children, but you are a light to the ones around us.

And even though you try to act all big, strong, and mighty,

but you are nothing but a big ol' teddy bear!

But you are still pretty cool!

You may be 41 years old today,

but you will forever be a kid at heart!

I love you!

God Is So Good!

2010-06-13T19:43:00.000-05:00

We have had one awesome weekend! Saturday was our 1-day VBS and God was moving all around. We could all feel His wonderful presence. In attendance was 36 children and 18 adults. {54 total} The children alone was more than the night with the most children last year. Our biggest night then was 38 and that counted the adults.

I think I may like the 1-day event. Then again I may not, I was wore out! I came in and for supper, we reheated the hamburgers that the ladies who worked in the kitchen sent home with us. (Bless their hearts for thinking of us!) After I ate, I fell asleep in my chair!

PRAISE THE LORD! We had 3 children to accept Jesus into their hearts! Then tonight during our Commencement Service, we had 6 children to make the move to join the church. They are all now candidates for baptism! They will actually be joining a few more who are being baptized, bringing that count up to 12 or 13 people! WHOO HOO! I do wish that my youngest would have been one of those, but in God's time, it will happen! I will never give up on that.

I will say that all the hard work paid off. It was a successful VBS!

I just have to PRAISE THE LORD one more time! = )

Saddle Ridge Ranch - June 12

2010-06-03T18:47:00.000-05:00

I have been working on several things for our VBS all day long. It is just over a week away, yee haw! I have been so stressed, but now everything is coming together so nicely. We know that all things work together for good to them that love God... Romans 8:28. I had a few tumbleweeds rolling around at first, but I am back in the saddle now! I am so excited!

I will tell you something if you don't mind! This is my 2nd. year directing and I thought the work would be easier with a little experience. Ha! Trust me, I will never look at the director the same way again. If you don't direct, please pray for those who do! Pray for me if you don't have a VBS this year. I need those prayers. I believe that this is the hardest thing I have ever did in church work. Teaching Sunday School is a breeze compared to directing!

All will be worth it come Sat. evening! Especially if there is just 1 child or even 1 adult who accepts the Lord in their heart. I already feel like something great is going to happen and I ask you that you keep our little church in your prayers. The last time I felt this way about a VBS was two years ago when my oldest daughter accepted Jesus into her heart. {Not that last year was a bad year... people prayed and received what they needed, but no one confessed salvation.} Wouldn't it be wonderful if this was the year when my baby accepted Him? Yes, she is only 5 years old, but I believe that if the Lord's time for her, she can be saved. I am already teary-eyed just thinking about it. Praise the Lord!

Trust me if it happens, one momma will be shouting the roof off the building!

Springdale Baptist Church invites you to a 1-day VBS

{Boaz, Alabama}

June 12, 2010 from 9:00am - 4:00pm

Line Up - 8:55am

Registration - 8:30am

Heaven's Gain

2010-05-06T20:21:00.000-05:00

Tonight, we grieve. Tonight, we rejoice! Another beloved member of our church went home. Mrs. Granny (Lorene) Kendrick was carried by her angels up to the King. Yes, I said her angels. Granny knew that she had angels around her. She spoke to them and about them to everyone who would listen. She even dreamed about them not too long ago. She was indeed carried by those angels who kept her company! No doubt about it, there is a new angel in Heaven tonight. Please pray for her family. Even though they prayed for her to go home, Granny was a godly woman who will be missed by many!

Hope's Friend

2010-05-06T19:11:00.000-05:00

I don't think I have mentioned that we finally got in touch with the family of Hope's friend. The school system had a meeting with the parents to discuss when school would be starting back last Thursday. I took Hope with me so she could help me look for "L" and her family. We didn't see any of them so we decided that after the meeting was over, we had time to try and make it down to their home before going to revival. I called "L's" number and got no answer while we were in line to get out of the parking lot. Then I tried to call her grandmother. Thank God, I got an answer this time. The grandmother told us that Hope's friend did indeed come to their house to seek shelter from the storm. "L" was terrified, but she was ok. We actually just missed talking to her for they just got power at their house and was headed home. I cried tears of joy! After revival meeting, we were eating out in the fellowship hall when "L" called my cell phone. I started crying as I searched for Hope over everyone's heads. I couldn't help myself because hearing her voice was the sweetest thing I heard. I gave the phone to Hope so she could walk outside the fellowship hall to talk while I explained to everyone that nothing was wrong. Everything was fine because once again God had answered a prayer!

THANK YOU FOR ALL OF YOUR PRAYERS TOO!

Downtown

2010-05-06T10:33:00.000-05:00

After picking strawberries yesturday, we came through downtown Albertville. It has been 11 days since the tornado came through and I haven't seen any other damage that was left other than what you can see on the highway. It took everything I had to fight back the tears. I knew that downtown was bad, but until I saw it with my own eyes, I realized that I have seen nothing. Now as I write this post, I have tears running down my face. The damage is unbelievable. There are still streets closed. I can't even imagine what these people feel who have lost everything. Why do I complain when I have to make the beds or wash dishes or even prepare meals? Why do I fuss when the kids don't remove their clothing off my bed and into their appropriate places? Why do I make huge deal after tripping over toys? We have everything compared to the folks who lived in the downtown area! Oh how my heart breaks at my own selfishness.

Lord I am so sorry! You have blessed us beyond measure and yet I take it for granted. You kept us from harm and all I do is complain. It could have been us. But it wasn't. I give you all the praise! I praise you for the lives you spared. I praise you for the people who have put their own lives on hold just to help us clean up. I praise you for being there that day, now, and forever!

Get Prepared

2010-05-01T10:52:00.000-05:00

Looking back over the damage that was left behind from a EF3 tornado that came through our town last Sat., I realized that there was some preparation that was needed in our home. Not our eternal preparation, all that are accountable have already done that! As far as the human eye can tell, Amberly is still under God's umbrella of grace. We need to prepare for this side in case of another natural disaster or even a fire. When we left here Sat night headed toward my sister's house, we were in our jammies. Now there is nothing wrong with that and we would do it again if we had the warning we had last weekend. But that was all we had! The bag of extra clothing we usually keep in the car was left in the house. I had took it out to replace the cold weather clothing for more warm weather clothing. Something that I do every few months or so. We didn't have any of our important papers such as bill statements and insurance papers. If we would have lost our home, we would have freaked out! We wouldn't have been able to contact directly our credit card companies and all the other important stuff that we would have needed to do. I know that I would have forgotten who and what we even pay. We didn't have a change of clothes. No toiletries, no medicines, no nothing.

This weekend they are calling for more bad weather, although the risks are slimmer here. I am still not prepared in case we have to seek shelter again. Today I am going to be gathering up a few things for the next time we need to leave in a hurry. Did you know that there was a online store that carried travel sized needs? I just read about them this morning. "Minimus.biz is the world leader in all things travel and individual sized." I have never heard of it before but it sounds like a great site to check out!

Are you prepared?

Blessed

2010-04-29T08:14:00.000-05:00

This week as we head to revival, we pass through an area that received damage from the tornado. An area that wasn't as bad hit as it was downtown or at my brother-in-laws apartment. JIt is just a glimse of the destruction we see. I am so blessed. I remember Sat. night/Sun. morning as we were sitting at my sister's house waiting for the storms to pass, the horror I felt when we heard that they were seeing a debris cloud on radar. My heart just sank knowing that we left our trailer, our loved ones, and friends in the wake. We didn't know what part of Albertville was hit until later. All I could do is start praying that everyone was safe and sound. Soon after, we was able to get in touch with our families to learn that everyone was ok. Me and Rickey wanted to see for ourselves that our home was standing. We thought it would be best if the children stayed with Sandy in case the worst had happened. I knew that I would totally loose it if we had any kind of damage, but then I would be able to pull myself together in order to tell the children. I didn't want them to see momma upset. My daddy came over to my sister's house and rode up with us 1:30am Sunday morning. We were turned around before we reached the city limits. We left not knowing for sure if we had somewhere to return to. Sunday morning we started hearing by radio some of the damage that was received. We were shocked! We tried once again to come home around 10:00am. We could only stare as we passed through the damage. I have never seen anything like it before. Sure I have seen pictures of tornado damage before, but to see it firsthand doesn't even compare. I was very aware of the precious hand of God holding us. Never before have I felt it like I did Sunday morning. It still brings me to tears of what we could have lost. We didn't have any damage at our home. I am so blessed! But for some reason God spared Albertville. Yes, there is damage! Yes, there was people hurt, but no one died! But it could have been much worse. I thank God for keeping me and my family safe! As we at Sandy's house, I went outside after the storms and looked in the direction of Albertville. I thought about what if's. What if it was our trailer in the midst of the damage. I realized right then that it didn't matter. It is just a material thing. Something that could be replaced. What mattered was the love, support, and comfort that my Lord was giving me at that moment. What mattered was my family was fine. I am so blessed!

There are people who did lose their homes and belongings. I am asking that you please remember them in your prayers. Pray for our city. Things are changed and it will take us a while to return to a new normal. But we will make it! We are blessed!

Tornado Damage Update

2010-04-28T09:06:00.000-05:00

Here is a latest news article with more ground level and aerial pictures of the destruction!

We still haven't received any information on Hope's friend and her family. But tommorrow, there is to be a parent meeting about the schools returning to classes. We are keeping our eyes peeled for them. Please continue to pray for their safety and well-beings.

From the NWS Storm Survey Team

2010-04-26T06:40:00.000-05:00

After following the path of Saturday's tornado, the NWS storm survey team has confirmed that it was a F3 tornado that came through here. It was on the ground for 18.5 miles and was 3/4 of a mile wide. Wind speed was 140 mph. So far we have heard of no fatalities. Injury count was 27 or 28. God is good!

Albertville, AL Tornado Damage

We still haven't received any contact from Hope's friend and her family. And we can't go down to where they live yet as it is still blocked off. They won't let us walk down because of the powerlines on the ground. Please continue to pray for them.

Tornado

2010-04-25T13:36:00.000-05:00

We are now at home! We are safe and sound! Last night the city in which we live in was hit by a tornado. The National Weather Service has been out this morning surveying the damage but it has been devastated in many places. Someone mentioned a possible F3-F4 tornado.

I have literally been terrified, panicky, thankful, blessed and rejoicing within the same breathe. Late yesterday afternoon we arrived back home from a beautiful wedding. We knew that the weather was bad and it was headed our way. We watched it all evening until it seemed to be settling down. I went to bed early since I didn't sleep the night before because of some strong storms coming through. Rickey came and got me up and said that it was time to go. We live in a trailor, but Rickey NEVER leaves when it storms! We proceeded to get the children up, shoes on, and walked out the door. The lightening was a flickering. "Tornado lightening" as we call it around here. I told him to hurry and get us to my sister's house. It was bad and coming fast. {It did actually speed up.} If we would have left 15 min. later than what we did, we would have been caught up right in the middle of where the tornado came through. I am still shaky and on the verge of crying every time I even think about what possibly could have happened. I won't let myself go there yet.

When we got to my sister's house we heard that the tornado hit the gas stations across from us. It didn't, but it did hit one about 1 mile up the road. We just knew that if the tornado took out the gas station across from it, we no longer had a place to call home. I tried calling my sis-in-law who lives right behind us but got no answer. Rickey called his oldest brother only to find out that his apartment duplex was hit. He is fine, although shaken up! When we finally was able to reach my sis-in-law and her family, we found out that they had left their trailor too. We didn't know if we had somewhere to live. After the next & last line of storms came through, we tried to come home from my sister's house but we forced to turn around. All roads leading into the city was blocked off. We finally made it in this morning.

Everything is fine here and we do have power now. Many people do not. Downtown was completely destroyed. Please, I am asking that you pray for us, our family, and all the people that were affected by this tornado. It will take time to rebuild, time to mend, and time to accept! I could care less about our home and the things inside it. Right now, I am just so thankful that God's hand was protecting us.

One more prayer request.... Where the tornado went through was on a path to the house of Hope's best friend. We can not get down to where they live or have we been able to reach them. Please help us pray that her family is ok. Hope became very upset after I told her, but I wanted to prepare her for the worst. Lift up this family in your prayers. From the looks of it, they may have lost their home if not more.

Enjoying Easter

2010-04-05T19:53:00.000-05:00

We had a beautiful day yesturday to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord. We first attended a wonderful church service and then met at my mom's house for dinner and an egg hunt for the little ones. While we were waiting on everyone's arrival, we looked at mom's flowers that had bloomed out. My sister had told me that grandmother's yard was covered in buttercups {or you may call them daffodills}. We walked down to where she lived. We saw some of the most amazing flowers. Wild hydrangeas?, double buttercups, wild violets, and even some peach blossoms from a tree that never bloomed while grandmother was living. She even used to joke about it saying that it would finally bloom and bear fruit after she died. Sure enough, we have pulled peaches from it. Mother had some beautiful tulips that were blooming! She even had some little white flowers bloomed out. {I think she called them snowbells?} While we were walking around looking at the flowers we were taking pictures of them. Sometimes we would even get on our knees for a closer view of them. Probable looking a bit silly, but we enjoyed it!

God is still in control

2010-03-24T09:02:00.000-05:00

For someone who was never supposed to be born, you are living proof that God still knows all things!

Happy Birthday son, I love you!

Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. Mark 9:23