Do you ever wonder what in this world God is doing? Do you ever just see things happen and think to yourself...how can this be allowed? Why is this happening? What are people thinking? Where is God in this?
I'm having so much trouble wrapping my mind around things that are happening right now. I know that God is in control! But, I just wish I just could see what He was doing and why He is doing it.
Okay...okay, I know...suck it up and have faith. Maybe that's what I'm supposed to be learning. Not understanding but trusting that my Lord is in total and complete control. He knows and that's all that matters. Who am I to question Him?!
Just wish that sometimes I could see the picture that He sees!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Patch Work
In the past, a hole in a pair of jeans meant that it was time to be either donated or trashed. My how times have changed! A hole in a pair of jeans can be patched so easily! No need to think tacky denim patches on the outside of the jeans (my daughter would be horrified to wear a pair of jeans with that!).
Just turn the jeans inside out...
Then cut to size the patch and place over the hole....
Then iron...
When turned back right side out, it looks worn, but no hole.
Now walking in stores you will notice that the "worn" look is really in right now. So, no worries there!
Then the pairs of jeans that are just beyond patching, I cut off and either make shorts or capris.
I just cut, then measure and make sure both sides are equal. Roll once, iron and roll again and iron. Then take and tack at the inseams and in the middle of the roll, but making sure you don't go all the way thru, just catch inside roll. This way no stitch work can be seen, but the roll will stay in place. There you go! Easy! I like this too, because I am in control of the length of the shorts! I try to dress my daughter modestly and in today's society sometimes it's difficult to find shorts that is a respectable length.
Another tip, is that if your kids outgrow the jeans or pants in length, but they still fit in the waist, convert them to shorts or capris. It also gives you options when shopping at GoodWill or thrift stores. Always think out of the box. Autumn can still fit into a 6 in the waist, but they are too short in length. If she needs shorts, I can snag some size 6 at GoodWill and convert to shorts.
You can also jazz the shorts or capris up...go to your local craft store and get some cute transfers and iron them on. A little creativity goes a long way!
A part of being frugal is making do with what you have. How much money I have wasted by throwing things away that could be patched, fixed or re-purposed.
Just turn the jeans inside out...
Then cut to size the patch and place over the hole....
Then iron...
When turned back right side out, it looks worn, but no hole.
Now walking in stores you will notice that the "worn" look is really in right now. So, no worries there!
Then the pairs of jeans that are just beyond patching, I cut off and either make shorts or capris.
I just cut, then measure and make sure both sides are equal. Roll once, iron and roll again and iron. Then take and tack at the inseams and in the middle of the roll, but making sure you don't go all the way thru, just catch inside roll. This way no stitch work can be seen, but the roll will stay in place. There you go! Easy! I like this too, because I am in control of the length of the shorts! I try to dress my daughter modestly and in today's society sometimes it's difficult to find shorts that is a respectable length.
Another tip, is that if your kids outgrow the jeans or pants in length, but they still fit in the waist, convert them to shorts or capris. It also gives you options when shopping at GoodWill or thrift stores. Always think out of the box. Autumn can still fit into a 6 in the waist, but they are too short in length. If she needs shorts, I can snag some size 6 at GoodWill and convert to shorts.
You can also jazz the shorts or capris up...go to your local craft store and get some cute transfers and iron them on. A little creativity goes a long way!
A part of being frugal is making do with what you have. How much money I have wasted by throwing things away that could be patched, fixed or re-purposed.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Family Day Celebrating Trent's Graduation!
As most of you know, we are on an extremely tight budget. But, your son graduating doesn't come around very often. So, we packed up for a day trip. We went to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. We ate breakfast at home before the road trip and took some snacks with us to eat on the road.
Once down there, we walked around and saw the sights (cheap and fun). Trent has been wanting a Henna Tattoo, so he got one of those. Here's a quick tip...eat early, after lunch but before dinner. You can get the "early bird" special. So, we ate around 3 and saved tons. Then they boys are big on racing go-carts. So, off to Nascar Park. Now, that could have been expensive, but we all agreed just 2 tracks a piece. Now, you may roll your eyes at that, but in the hot sun and standing in line for just those 2 tracks, my family was more than ready to go home. Something fun, but on the cheap! We had a great time! We laughed and just enjoyed being together and best of all....made memories!
Once down there, we walked around and saw the sights (cheap and fun). Trent has been wanting a Henna Tattoo, so he got one of those. Here's a quick tip...eat early, after lunch but before dinner. You can get the "early bird" special. So, we ate around 3 and saved tons. Then they boys are big on racing go-carts. So, off to Nascar Park. Now, that could have been expensive, but we all agreed just 2 tracks a piece. Now, you may roll your eyes at that, but in the hot sun and standing in line for just those 2 tracks, my family was more than ready to go home. Something fun, but on the cheap! We had a great time! We laughed and just enjoyed being together and best of all....made memories!
Trent Graduates!!!
It's hard to believe that my Baby Boy has graduated high school! It seems like I just brought him home from the hospital! He has grown into a wonderful young man. When he graduated, he did so with Vocational Honors and Excellence in Technology Education. I am excited to see what the future holds for him.
But, on a completely selfish note...I don't want to let him go! I don't want him to be independent. I always want him here with me. I know I need to let go and let him be the man that God has called him to be. But, it's so hard to watch him grow up and start living his own life. I'm just praying that God will give me what I need to pull away and not be one of those smothering moms. I want to encourage him and support him, but not smother him.
So, while this is a celebration....it's also, so difficult for me to process that my precious little boy has become a bright, handsome and Godly young man.
Yes, I am truly blessed! I am part of his life...my part may be diminishing a little, but he will always be by precious Baby Boy!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Update on Life
Gosh, it's hard to believe that it's been almost 5 months since I have written on my blog! Wow!
Let's see, I have learned to do some canning!! I'm super excited! It's so easy y'all!! I can't believe that I was nervous over doing it! I made eight 8 oz. jars of strawberry jam! I can't wait to can some more! I do need to invest in some canning stuff, but I used regular stock pots and it worked out fine. You just make sure the jars do not rest on the bottom of the pot. I placed jar rings on the bottom and placed the jars on them to process. If you are nervous about trying...don't be!! I just followed the directions and went step by step and it worked out great!
I'm growing a bigger garden this year too. We worked really hard this spring clearing out a larger spot for the garden. Now, if my plants will cooperate and not die on me! Lol! My tomatoes are looking great, my cucumbers, squash and beans not so much.
On another note about veggies, we went to the Farmer's Market and I was amazed how much money you can save!! Soooo much cheaper than the grocery store!! The only draw back is that it's 30 minutes away.
We are still on a really tight budget...really tight! I won't go all into the financial stuff we have faced these past 6 months, but let me tell you....it has been ROUGH! Wouldn't you know it, as soon as we completed Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University, things seemed to get worse! But, we are pressing on. Our emergency fund is gone, so we need to start all over on that. Ugh! I am struggling trying to figure out how to bring more money in. I even debated going back to work! I checked on summer and after school daycare...WOW! I wouldn't be bringing home more than I am now. It's crazy! I am praying that God will give me direction and wisdom! I'm so tired of being broke and in debt up to my eyeballs! Ugh!
I will try to do better in blogging. I can't believe that I have let it slip away like I have. I'm hoping to change that though!
Let's see, I have learned to do some canning!! I'm super excited! It's so easy y'all!! I can't believe that I was nervous over doing it! I made eight 8 oz. jars of strawberry jam! I can't wait to can some more! I do need to invest in some canning stuff, but I used regular stock pots and it worked out fine. You just make sure the jars do not rest on the bottom of the pot. I placed jar rings on the bottom and placed the jars on them to process. If you are nervous about trying...don't be!! I just followed the directions and went step by step and it worked out great!
I'm growing a bigger garden this year too. We worked really hard this spring clearing out a larger spot for the garden. Now, if my plants will cooperate and not die on me! Lol! My tomatoes are looking great, my cucumbers, squash and beans not so much.
On another note about veggies, we went to the Farmer's Market and I was amazed how much money you can save!! Soooo much cheaper than the grocery store!! The only draw back is that it's 30 minutes away.
We are still on a really tight budget...really tight! I won't go all into the financial stuff we have faced these past 6 months, but let me tell you....it has been ROUGH! Wouldn't you know it, as soon as we completed Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University, things seemed to get worse! But, we are pressing on. Our emergency fund is gone, so we need to start all over on that. Ugh! I am struggling trying to figure out how to bring more money in. I even debated going back to work! I checked on summer and after school daycare...WOW! I wouldn't be bringing home more than I am now. It's crazy! I am praying that God will give me direction and wisdom! I'm so tired of being broke and in debt up to my eyeballs! Ugh!
I will try to do better in blogging. I can't believe that I have let it slip away like I have. I'm hoping to change that though!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Uses for White Vinegar!
Love, Love, Love White vinegar!! It has so many uses and it's CHEAP!! Lol! Yep, and we all know how cheap I am!
Vinegar can kill most mold, germs and bacteria because of it's acidity. It can be used to deodorize too. It can be used as a laundry booster, it makes the whites whiter and the colors brighter. It can also be used as a fabric softener.
You can pour it on weeds to kill them. Vinegar can deter ants too!
And did you know that white vinegar can remove hazy stains from inside of car windows. Speaking of windows...it can be diluted with water and used to clean windows.
It can tenderize meats, make the onion odor on your hands disappear and keep your eggs from cracking while boiling if you add a tablespoon to the water.
I have switched to using baking soda and vinegar cleaning my shower and tubs. Sprinkle the baking soda and spray vinegar on top and let it soak just for a 1 minute and scrub a little!! Clean and deodorized!!!
Give white vinegar a try! It's natural and cheap!!!
Vinegar can kill most mold, germs and bacteria because of it's acidity. It can be used to deodorize too. It can be used as a laundry booster, it makes the whites whiter and the colors brighter. It can also be used as a fabric softener.
You can pour it on weeds to kill them. Vinegar can deter ants too!
And did you know that white vinegar can remove hazy stains from inside of car windows. Speaking of windows...it can be diluted with water and used to clean windows.
It can tenderize meats, make the onion odor on your hands disappear and keep your eggs from cracking while boiling if you add a tablespoon to the water.
I have switched to using baking soda and vinegar cleaning my shower and tubs. Sprinkle the baking soda and spray vinegar on top and let it soak just for a 1 minute and scrub a little!! Clean and deodorized!!!
Give white vinegar a try! It's natural and cheap!!!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Fast and Quick Breakfast for the Kids
I don't know about you guys, but in the morning we struggle getting ready in time for school. So, I am constantly looking for quick and easy breakfasts that the kids can grab in a hurry. I do the typical cold cereal and pop tarts, but I wanted something more. So, I read where you can make pancakes and freeze them. Perfect, hot breakfast that will be fast, but I also need cheap! Looking at the pre-packaged pancakes, I soon discovered that they were pretty pricey considering what they are made of. So, I decided to make them on my own. I made 2 batches (24 pancakes) and placed them on a cookie sheet and placed them in the freezer. You keep them there for around 20 to 30 minutes remove and place in a freezer bag and place in the freezer.
The kids can grab the pancakes in the morning and heat in the microwave for 1 minute and there you go!!
It only took me around 10 minutes preparation time, and the kids have a hot breakfast in 1 minute!! Cheap, Easy and Quick!!
The kids can grab the pancakes in the morning and heat in the microwave for 1 minute and there you go!!
It only took me around 10 minutes preparation time, and the kids have a hot breakfast in 1 minute!! Cheap, Easy and Quick!!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Homemade Laundry Detergent
As promised....my homemade laundry detergent recipe (well, not mine, but the one I use).
Here is what you will need:
The Borax I get at Wal-Mart for $2.98, Washing Soda at Ingles for $3.38 and Ivory Soap at Wal-Mart $.33 (12 Pack for $3.98).
The measurements are as follows:
1 cup Borax
1 cup Washing Soda
1 bar of Ivory Soap
Place the Ivory Soap on a plate.
Place it in the microwave for 2 minutes. Keep your eye on it and if it gets too big, take it out and let it cool. Take the "fluffy" part and crumble in a bowl and place back in the microwave and let it expand again. Repeat this process until all the soap is "fluffy". It will look like this:
Take the cup of Borax and Washing Soda and combine it with the crumbled soap. I take my hand and keep crumbling the Ivory Soap while I work it into the mixture.
I use an empty coffee container to store it in.
I use 2 tablespoons per load. Place in the bottom of the washer and load with clothes. This has worked great with our laundry. Jeff's clothes can get really dirty and I have never had a problem. This is also an all natural laundry detergent!! I use 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup of white vinegar for fabric softener. This kills odors, disinfects and softens the clothes. Again this is also all natural and it's cheap! Your clothes do not have a vinegar smell, nor does your laundry room. I buy a gallon of white vinegar at Wal-Mart for $2.98. White vinegar can be used with lots of cleaning...I will post more about that later!!
Here is what you will need:
The Borax I get at Wal-Mart for $2.98, Washing Soda at Ingles for $3.38 and Ivory Soap at Wal-Mart $.33 (12 Pack for $3.98).
The measurements are as follows:
1 cup Borax
1 cup Washing Soda
1 bar of Ivory Soap
Place the Ivory Soap on a plate.
Place it in the microwave for 2 minutes. Keep your eye on it and if it gets too big, take it out and let it cool. Take the "fluffy" part and crumble in a bowl and place back in the microwave and let it expand again. Repeat this process until all the soap is "fluffy". It will look like this:
Take the cup of Borax and Washing Soda and combine it with the crumbled soap. I take my hand and keep crumbling the Ivory Soap while I work it into the mixture.
I use an empty coffee container to store it in.
I use 2 tablespoons per load. Place in the bottom of the washer and load with clothes. This has worked great with our laundry. Jeff's clothes can get really dirty and I have never had a problem. This is also an all natural laundry detergent!! I use 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup of white vinegar for fabric softener. This kills odors, disinfects and softens the clothes. Again this is also all natural and it's cheap! Your clothes do not have a vinegar smell, nor does your laundry room. I buy a gallon of white vinegar at Wal-Mart for $2.98. White vinegar can be used with lots of cleaning...I will post more about that later!!
Cheap and Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
I recently discovered this recipe that I had to share. It's super easy and did I mention CHEAP!!
1 cup of Peanut Butter (your choice creamy or crunchy)
1 egg
1 cup of sugar
1 tsp. of vanilla
Yep, that's it. No flour! Combine ingredients and mix well. Place a teaspoon amount on baking sheet and flatten with fork (I used a teaspoon and then took the mixture and rounded it and flattened it). Then bake for 10 minutes. Cool. Done!
These cookies are very sweet so I may reduce the amount of sugar. But, everyone gave them the thumbs up. Fast, Cheap and Easy snack! If I used organic peanut butter and natural sugar they might even be considered healthy!
I have stored them in an air tight container
and hid them for consumpation control! Lol!
1 cup of Peanut Butter (your choice creamy or crunchy)
1 egg
1 cup of sugar
1 tsp. of vanilla
Yep, that's it. No flour! Combine ingredients and mix well. Place a teaspoon amount on baking sheet and flatten with fork (I used a teaspoon and then took the mixture and rounded it and flattened it). Then bake for 10 minutes. Cool. Done!
These cookies are very sweet so I may reduce the amount of sugar. But, everyone gave them the thumbs up. Fast, Cheap and Easy snack! If I used organic peanut butter and natural sugar they might even be considered healthy!
I have stored them in an air tight container
and hid them for consumpation control! Lol!
Grocery List and Menu Update
I had a car wreck a couple of weeks ago. This resulted in a $95 tow bill and a $100 deductable. So, add this in with that I absolutely used all extra money for Christmas...so in very blunt terms, we are broke right now. So,the challenge was to get groceries using all of our Wal-Mart gift cards from Christmas and not use any cash. 
So, here is what I got:
Cabbage
Onions
Dog Food
Lettuce
Bananas
White Vinegar
Milk
Generic Cereal
Grape Capisun (School Lunches)
Toilet Paper
Dawn Dish washing liquid
Dried Beans
Generic unsweetened lemonade
Taco Seasoning
Baking Soda
Salt
Crackers
Snack Bags
Applesauce
Salsa
Canned Soups
Tuna
Green Chilis
Canned Chicken Breast
Hamburger Buns
Bread
Coffee Creamer
Turkey Smoked Sausage
Cheese
Large Generic Yogurt
Grand Total: $78.30
Mission accomplished!
Okay, so with all that said...I have some supplies on hand (another reason for food storage!!!!). Listed below is my menu plan for the upcoming 2 weeks.
Menu Plan
Manwiches
Breakfast Dinner (Bacon and Eggs)
Smoked Sausage
Butter Beans with potato cakes
Spaghetti
Turkey
Deer Steak with Onions and Mushrooms
Quesdillas
Chili
Meatloaf
Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
Breakfast Casserole
Shepherds Pie
Rice with Venison and Mushroom Gravy
Those are my main dishes and they will be served with veggies.
The kid's lunches and ours will be soups, sandwiches, and spaghettos. Snacks will be popcorn and homemade cookies. Breakfast will be pancakes, cereal and oatmeal.
So, here is what I got:
Cabbage
Onions
Dog Food
Lettuce
Bananas
White Vinegar
Milk
Generic Cereal
Grape Capisun (School Lunches)
Toilet Paper
Dawn Dish washing liquid
Dried Beans
Generic unsweetened lemonade
Taco Seasoning
Baking Soda
Salt
Crackers
Snack Bags
Applesauce
Salsa
Canned Soups
Tuna
Green Chilis
Canned Chicken Breast
Hamburger Buns
Bread
Coffee Creamer
Turkey Smoked Sausage
Cheese
Large Generic Yogurt
Grand Total: $78.30
Mission accomplished!
Okay, so with all that said...I have some supplies on hand (another reason for food storage!!!!). Listed below is my menu plan for the upcoming 2 weeks.
Menu Plan
Manwiches
Breakfast Dinner (Bacon and Eggs)
Smoked Sausage
Butter Beans with potato cakes
Spaghetti
Turkey
Deer Steak with Onions and Mushrooms
Quesdillas
Chili
Meatloaf
Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
Breakfast Casserole
Shepherds Pie
Rice with Venison and Mushroom Gravy
Those are my main dishes and they will be served with veggies.
The kid's lunches and ours will be soups, sandwiches, and spaghettos. Snacks will be popcorn and homemade cookies. Breakfast will be pancakes, cereal and oatmeal.
Monday, January 3, 2011
2011 Goals
2011 Goals...where to begin....there is so much I want to accomplish, I can get totally overwhelmed by it.
1. Continue to get my debit paid off. This year was the first Christmas that we absolutely did not purchase one thing on a credit card. It felt great!! Yes, Christmas was a lot smaller in the gift area, but you know what it was GREAT!! We had a wonderful and blessed Christmas without the "stuff"!! So, it has really empowered me to even be more intense about living simpler and with more of a purpose than just collecting stuff!
2. Become healthier in our eating and lifestyle. I continue to get the processed junk out of this house! Christmas was a bit of a slip up with all the sweet goodies. But, now it's back on track. I am constantly on the search for healthy frugal recipes and I am enjoying the journey. Also, I am becoming more aware of the chemicals that I am using cleaning and using on our bodies. I have made several improvements and will continue to work on this.
3. Learn to cook venison. I am still a beginner. I have been blessed with some deer meat and I am experimenting with it and look forward to cooking more with it.
4. Making more cleaning products. I have started making my own laundry detergent that is so cheap and healthy!! I will post the recipe later. Next I'm making my own dishwasher detergent and natural cleaning products. My great friend Elise gave me a book for Christmas with lots and lots of recipes I'm excited to try! Not only is this going to be healthier for our family, but also save us money.
5. Start back on my stockpiling of food. My goal is to get at least 3 months or more of food stockpiled. For those wondering why...well, we never know what the future holds. I want to make sure that I have the means to take care of my family. Prices are going up but not paychecks, jobs are uncertain, economy is scary and honestly I am not sure how much tribulation the church will see before the rapture. My spirit has been telling me for a while to get prepared. I have been distracted or unable due to money, but I truly want to get back on track with this. I have storage issues, but that's not going to stop me!
Well, that is my narrowed down list. There are a couple of things that I did not list, but I consider them a given...
I want to strive to put the Lord first in my life, read the Word more, Worship more, Serve more, submit more, surrender more....I want MORE of the Lord!!
I want to be a better wife and Mom.
I want to slow down and enjoy life instead of going wide open and feeling like I have to constantly be doing something...I want to spend more time just being. To savor each moment instead of looking for the "next" moment to happen.
Okay, I could possibly go on forever with this list, so I will stop now.
So, there you have it...my condensed version of my 2011 goals!!
1. Continue to get my debit paid off. This year was the first Christmas that we absolutely did not purchase one thing on a credit card. It felt great!! Yes, Christmas was a lot smaller in the gift area, but you know what it was GREAT!! We had a wonderful and blessed Christmas without the "stuff"!! So, it has really empowered me to even be more intense about living simpler and with more of a purpose than just collecting stuff!
2. Become healthier in our eating and lifestyle. I continue to get the processed junk out of this house! Christmas was a bit of a slip up with all the sweet goodies. But, now it's back on track. I am constantly on the search for healthy frugal recipes and I am enjoying the journey. Also, I am becoming more aware of the chemicals that I am using cleaning and using on our bodies. I have made several improvements and will continue to work on this.
3. Learn to cook venison. I am still a beginner. I have been blessed with some deer meat and I am experimenting with it and look forward to cooking more with it.
4. Making more cleaning products. I have started making my own laundry detergent that is so cheap and healthy!! I will post the recipe later. Next I'm making my own dishwasher detergent and natural cleaning products. My great friend Elise gave me a book for Christmas with lots and lots of recipes I'm excited to try! Not only is this going to be healthier for our family, but also save us money.
5. Start back on my stockpiling of food. My goal is to get at least 3 months or more of food stockpiled. For those wondering why...well, we never know what the future holds. I want to make sure that I have the means to take care of my family. Prices are going up but not paychecks, jobs are uncertain, economy is scary and honestly I am not sure how much tribulation the church will see before the rapture. My spirit has been telling me for a while to get prepared. I have been distracted or unable due to money, but I truly want to get back on track with this. I have storage issues, but that's not going to stop me!
Well, that is my narrowed down list. There are a couple of things that I did not list, but I consider them a given...
I want to strive to put the Lord first in my life, read the Word more, Worship more, Serve more, submit more, surrender more....I want MORE of the Lord!!
I want to be a better wife and Mom.
I want to slow down and enjoy life instead of going wide open and feeling like I have to constantly be doing something...I want to spend more time just being. To savor each moment instead of looking for the "next" moment to happen.
Okay, I could possibly go on forever with this list, so I will stop now.
So, there you have it...my condensed version of my 2011 goals!!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Frugal and Healthy!
Healthy and frugal?! Can the two go together? Lol! I am on a journey to do just that! I have made a couple of changes in our household.
Change #1: I have started making my own laundry detergent. It is all natural and CHEAP!!! Love it!!! It is easy to make too!
Change #2: I am cutting down on my cleaning products and trying out natural non-toxic ones. Borax, baking soda and vinegar has become my new best friends!! They are also CHEAP!! I have started cleaning my counter tops, toilets, tubs, stove top and microwave with them.
Change #3: I have changed our soap to Ivory (99.44/100 pure) and it's also CHEAP!
Change #4: I have changed my facial cleanser to an all natural oatmeal soap that is about the same price as what I was using.
Change #5: I have slowed way down on my coffee intake. Yep, you heard right. I went from 8 to 10 cups a day down to 3 cups a day. I am now drinking green tea (chocolate mint flavor) and drinking a detox tea.
Other small changes have been that I am cutting back on meat (even chicken and ground turkey) and started plugging in fresh veggies. The cost is around the same. I have cut waaaaayyyyy back on sweets!! I used to have some sweet things around for the kids and hubby to snack on. Now it's fruit, pretzels, granola bars, cheese, and popcorn. Not saying that with the holidays coming up that I won't make a batch of cookies or make some homemade candy...but, for the most part we have very little sweets.
This may totally sound weird, but for a while I have been wanting to make things "simpler". Sometimes, it may mean a little extra work for me...like making my own detergent. But, really I have become quite spoiled. I started thinking about my grandmother (who was debt-free!) and what she used to do. She was very creative and did not waste a thing. She lived through the depression and knew how to stretch things out and how to make do. If only I would have paid attention more!! Ugh!
And completely and totally off the subject....BUT, I was speaking with a lady at a local charity trying to figure out how I could help and she was telling me that people were calling and actually complaining and asking for help to buy Christmas because they were not able to spend $500 a child like they did last year...they could ONLY spend $200! Are you kidding me?!? My two kids will be lucky if they get that much spent together!!!! How spoiled have we become as a society!!! We are all about the material things!! As a recovering materialistic girl...I am so thankful that I'm not there anymore. Yes, I still want...desire...whine...and even complain that I don't have, but praise God that I am slowly finding the true value of life. It's not about the brand names that you wear, or the size of your TV or having the latest greatest cell phone...but it's about God, family, health, spending those precious moments with those that you love!!! Those things truly matter!! Those things will make you happy!!
Okay, off my soap box....I am going to continue to post about things that I am changing to be more frugal and hopefully more healthy in the process!! I look forward to the journey!!!
Change #1: I have started making my own laundry detergent. It is all natural and CHEAP!!! Love it!!! It is easy to make too!
Change #2: I am cutting down on my cleaning products and trying out natural non-toxic ones. Borax, baking soda and vinegar has become my new best friends!! They are also CHEAP!! I have started cleaning my counter tops, toilets, tubs, stove top and microwave with them.
Change #3: I have changed our soap to Ivory (99.44/100 pure) and it's also CHEAP!
Change #4: I have changed my facial cleanser to an all natural oatmeal soap that is about the same price as what I was using.
Change #5: I have slowed way down on my coffee intake. Yep, you heard right. I went from 8 to 10 cups a day down to 3 cups a day. I am now drinking green tea (chocolate mint flavor) and drinking a detox tea.
Other small changes have been that I am cutting back on meat (even chicken and ground turkey) and started plugging in fresh veggies. The cost is around the same. I have cut waaaaayyyyy back on sweets!! I used to have some sweet things around for the kids and hubby to snack on. Now it's fruit, pretzels, granola bars, cheese, and popcorn. Not saying that with the holidays coming up that I won't make a batch of cookies or make some homemade candy...but, for the most part we have very little sweets.
This may totally sound weird, but for a while I have been wanting to make things "simpler". Sometimes, it may mean a little extra work for me...like making my own detergent. But, really I have become quite spoiled. I started thinking about my grandmother (who was debt-free!) and what she used to do. She was very creative and did not waste a thing. She lived through the depression and knew how to stretch things out and how to make do. If only I would have paid attention more!! Ugh!
And completely and totally off the subject....BUT, I was speaking with a lady at a local charity trying to figure out how I could help and she was telling me that people were calling and actually complaining and asking for help to buy Christmas because they were not able to spend $500 a child like they did last year...they could ONLY spend $200! Are you kidding me?!? My two kids will be lucky if they get that much spent together!!!! How spoiled have we become as a society!!! We are all about the material things!! As a recovering materialistic girl...I am so thankful that I'm not there anymore. Yes, I still want...desire...whine...and even complain that I don't have, but praise God that I am slowly finding the true value of life. It's not about the brand names that you wear, or the size of your TV or having the latest greatest cell phone...but it's about God, family, health, spending those precious moments with those that you love!!! Those things truly matter!! Those things will make you happy!!
Okay, off my soap box....I am going to continue to post about things that I am changing to be more frugal and hopefully more healthy in the process!! I look forward to the journey!!!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Something more.....
Have you ever looked at your life and thought...there must be something more? That is where I'm at. I enjoy being a wife and mother. But, there has to be something more. What am I missing? And how can I fit that something more into my life as a wife and mother?
I know that God wants me to take care of my family and to do it well. I strive to be that Proverbs 31 woman. But, somehow, I feel like I should be doing more...
This feeling won't leave! I feel so frustrated!
What's even more frustrating is that when I try to plug in and become more...I get shot down by others. You know the ones...they want your creativity and input but then don't use it or pass it off as their own. Or they take advantage of your desire to become more and abuse that willingness to serve by you becoming their own personal "servant". And heaven forbid that you stand up for your self, because then you get completely cut off and the cold shoulder and treated even worse! Taking a deep breath! Whew! What's a girl to do?!
It seems like I'm fighting the same old battles over and over again...just add a different person or a different situation to it...but it's the same feelings, the same insecurities, the same distrust of people, the same let down of thinking that this time it will be different. Where do I fit in God's plan? Am I trying to make myself fit where I don't belong? Am I doing what God wants me to do and just letting myself feel doubt and frustration? So many questions rolling around in my head!
I do wish that God would give me a huge bright neon sign telling me exactly what He wants me to do!! I know my gifting, but where do I plug in? I know what my passion is, but where do I use it?
I guess I will keep praying for wisdom and discernment. And keep praising God for allowing me to see situations and people for what they are...something a couple of years ago I wasn't able to do. At least the blinders have been removed in that area, now to know how to deal with the truth that I see. I know that every situation and every trial only perfects me to be the person that my Lord wants me to be. So, I'm trying to seek His wisdom in all of this and instead of wishing others to change, I am focusing on how I need to change. I am searching for His peace, His wisdom and His plan in all of this...now only if I could find that blasted neon sign!!!
I know that God wants me to take care of my family and to do it well. I strive to be that Proverbs 31 woman. But, somehow, I feel like I should be doing more...
This feeling won't leave! I feel so frustrated!
What's even more frustrating is that when I try to plug in and become more...I get shot down by others. You know the ones...they want your creativity and input but then don't use it or pass it off as their own. Or they take advantage of your desire to become more and abuse that willingness to serve by you becoming their own personal "servant". And heaven forbid that you stand up for your self, because then you get completely cut off and the cold shoulder and treated even worse! Taking a deep breath! Whew! What's a girl to do?!
It seems like I'm fighting the same old battles over and over again...just add a different person or a different situation to it...but it's the same feelings, the same insecurities, the same distrust of people, the same let down of thinking that this time it will be different. Where do I fit in God's plan? Am I trying to make myself fit where I don't belong? Am I doing what God wants me to do and just letting myself feel doubt and frustration? So many questions rolling around in my head!
I do wish that God would give me a huge bright neon sign telling me exactly what He wants me to do!! I know my gifting, but where do I plug in? I know what my passion is, but where do I use it?
I guess I will keep praying for wisdom and discernment. And keep praising God for allowing me to see situations and people for what they are...something a couple of years ago I wasn't able to do. At least the blinders have been removed in that area, now to know how to deal with the truth that I see. I know that every situation and every trial only perfects me to be the person that my Lord wants me to be. So, I'm trying to seek His wisdom in all of this and instead of wishing others to change, I am focusing on how I need to change. I am searching for His peace, His wisdom and His plan in all of this...now only if I could find that blasted neon sign!!!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Financial update...
Financial update....well, really, there isn't much to update. We are currently enrolled in Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University. I LOVE it!! I just thought I was on a budget! One thing you realize when taking his class is that you HAVE to be organized and prepared! I discovered that we were just floating through life. No savings, no emergency fund, no car repair fund, no vacation fund...the list goes on and on! Thus, this is one reason we got ourselves in MAJOR credit card debt! Now we are actually trying to get organized and prepared. EVERY dollar is accounted for! It's time consuming and stressful (for me anyhow), but it's well worth the benefits.
So, this morning I have been working on the budget and tweaking amounts. Did I mention it was stressful?! Christmas coming up, bills behind, Senior pictures to buy, winter clothes to replace....UGH!!!! I am struggling with not allowing this to steal my joy...I MUST trust my Heavenly Father!! I worry! I stress!! I try to figure things out and plan...and it does nothing but add to my stress level! I become depressed and discouraged! Realistically, it took almost 3 years to get us into this debt mess, so I can't just wave a magic wand and get out of it. I know this is a growing season for me! Trust has always been a huge issue for me! So, to trust God to bring me through this is HUGE! I know silly, right? I trust Him to save my soul, but not help me with my finances.
Okay, thinking positively...we are on a budget...a STRICT budget. We are becoming organized and prepared. We ARE trusting our Heavenly Father to bring us through this!!!
Now, I am trying to think creatively about Christmas. I am clueless! I have no ideas! I'm frustrated! Ugh! I am running into issues finding winter clothes at Goodwill too! I think more people are shopping at Goodwill, so the selection has went way down. Jeff's compressor in his car has went out (no money saved for that yet). We are STILL waiting to see if our mortgage company will approve us for a loan modification (it's been almost 4 months). Hmmmm, let's see and gas is going up in price, and winter is coming so the electric bill will most likely go up. And to top it all off....Jeff's overtime hours have been reduced and possibly discontinued until Spring. Wow!! I'm just spreading the joy and happiness, huh?
On to the positive,taking Dave Ramsey's class, doing budget and menu plan, and we are enjoying simple and fun family times!
So, there is the update....it is what it is. Depressing...but hopeful.
So, this morning I have been working on the budget and tweaking amounts. Did I mention it was stressful?! Christmas coming up, bills behind, Senior pictures to buy, winter clothes to replace....UGH!!!! I am struggling with not allowing this to steal my joy...I MUST trust my Heavenly Father!! I worry! I stress!! I try to figure things out and plan...and it does nothing but add to my stress level! I become depressed and discouraged! Realistically, it took almost 3 years to get us into this debt mess, so I can't just wave a magic wand and get out of it. I know this is a growing season for me! Trust has always been a huge issue for me! So, to trust God to bring me through this is HUGE! I know silly, right? I trust Him to save my soul, but not help me with my finances.
Okay, thinking positively...we are on a budget...a STRICT budget. We are becoming organized and prepared. We ARE trusting our Heavenly Father to bring us through this!!!
Now, I am trying to think creatively about Christmas. I am clueless! I have no ideas! I'm frustrated! Ugh! I am running into issues finding winter clothes at Goodwill too! I think more people are shopping at Goodwill, so the selection has went way down. Jeff's compressor in his car has went out (no money saved for that yet). We are STILL waiting to see if our mortgage company will approve us for a loan modification (it's been almost 4 months). Hmmmm, let's see and gas is going up in price, and winter is coming so the electric bill will most likely go up. And to top it all off....Jeff's overtime hours have been reduced and possibly discontinued until Spring. Wow!! I'm just spreading the joy and happiness, huh?
On to the positive,taking Dave Ramsey's class, doing budget and menu plan, and we are enjoying simple and fun family times!
So, there is the update....it is what it is. Depressing...but hopeful.
Monday, September 20, 2010
One of those mornings....
5:45 am Woke up and let the dogs out
5:47 am Made coffee!!
5:50 am Packed lunches and snacks
6:00 am Folded a load of clothes and started washing another
6:10 am Put away towels and emptied dishwasher
6:20 am Dogs are fed, coffee poured and Fox news on
6:30 am Wake kids up and start getting clothes ironed
6:35 am Wake kids up again
6:40 am Listen to the whining of kids having to get up!
6:45 am Fuss at kids for not getting ready
6:50 am Trent still trying to figure out what to wear for wacky tacky day
6:52 am Autumn still wanting to play with the dogs instead of getting ready
6:55 am Kids still not ready...the yelling starts!
7:00 am Autumn and Trent finally dressed...but breakfast not ate
7:05 am A fight with Autumn about what she is allowed to eat for breakfast
7:07 am Trent watching the news instead of brushing teeth and finishing up
7:10 am Autumn finally decides what she wants for breakfast
7:12 am Trent makes a change in wacky tacky outfit again!!
7:15 am Autumn finally brushing teeth and I am fixing her hair at the same time!
7:17 am Trent didn't have back pack ready or his cross country bag!!
7:18 am I start sweeping the kitchen just so I won't blow my top waiting!
7:19 am Lights off, tv off, dogs in crate, coffee in hand, ready to go
7:21 am Finally out the door!!
7:24 am Fights start in the car between the kids...not even sure what started it!
7:26 am Kids yelled at and Prayer started
7:35 am Prayer ends
7:37 am Trent dropped off at school
7:38 am Autumn talks all the way to school about being able to snap now.
7:41 am Autumn dropped off at school
7:42 am Get a much needed text from a dear friend wishing my a blessed day!!
7:45 am Prayed while driving home
8:00 am Home Finally!! Another cup of coffee and devotional!!
Whew! And what's ironic is my hubby just doesn't understand why I get so frustrated in the mornings! Ugh!!
5:47 am Made coffee!!
5:50 am Packed lunches and snacks
6:00 am Folded a load of clothes and started washing another
6:10 am Put away towels and emptied dishwasher
6:20 am Dogs are fed, coffee poured and Fox news on
6:30 am Wake kids up and start getting clothes ironed
6:35 am Wake kids up again
6:40 am Listen to the whining of kids having to get up!
6:45 am Fuss at kids for not getting ready
6:50 am Trent still trying to figure out what to wear for wacky tacky day
6:52 am Autumn still wanting to play with the dogs instead of getting ready
6:55 am Kids still not ready...the yelling starts!
7:00 am Autumn and Trent finally dressed...but breakfast not ate
7:05 am A fight with Autumn about what she is allowed to eat for breakfast
7:07 am Trent watching the news instead of brushing teeth and finishing up
7:10 am Autumn finally decides what she wants for breakfast
7:12 am Trent makes a change in wacky tacky outfit again!!
7:15 am Autumn finally brushing teeth and I am fixing her hair at the same time!
7:17 am Trent didn't have back pack ready or his cross country bag!!
7:18 am I start sweeping the kitchen just so I won't blow my top waiting!
7:19 am Lights off, tv off, dogs in crate, coffee in hand, ready to go
7:21 am Finally out the door!!
7:24 am Fights start in the car between the kids...not even sure what started it!
7:26 am Kids yelled at and Prayer started
7:35 am Prayer ends
7:37 am Trent dropped off at school
7:38 am Autumn talks all the way to school about being able to snap now.
7:41 am Autumn dropped off at school
7:42 am Get a much needed text from a dear friend wishing my a blessed day!!
7:45 am Prayed while driving home
8:00 am Home Finally!! Another cup of coffee and devotional!!
Whew! And what's ironic is my hubby just doesn't understand why I get so frustrated in the mornings! Ugh!!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Overwhelmed by His Love!
This post is just a reminder of how awesome our God is! Today during our worship service to be able just to close my eyes, lift my hand and sing to my Heavenly Father was completely and totally humbling! My Lord and Savior who sits on His throne allows me to openly and confidently come and worship Him! The feeling is totally indescribable. Once I enter into His throne room nothing else matters. All the stress, the worries, the failures, and insecurities all melt away. He loves me so completely! He is faithful and loyal! He knows me...knows my faults, knows my heart and still chooses to love me! He is in control! He is working in my life! Even when I can't see it, even when I don't feel it...He is there.
I think sometimes that people forget...I forget, just how wonderful it is to be able to come before our Heavenly Father...Our Holy, Righteous and Sovereign Father. To think about who I am, how sinful, how filthy I am and He stills allows me...ME to come before Him! To know that Jesus went through the most horrible and painful death imaginable for ME...so I could be forgiven, so I could come to my Father and worship...so I could speak to Him, so He would hear my prayers...is overwhelming. How could one not worship Him in awe!! His love is incomprehensible!
I think sometimes that people forget...I forget, just how wonderful it is to be able to come before our Heavenly Father...Our Holy, Righteous and Sovereign Father. To think about who I am, how sinful, how filthy I am and He stills allows me...ME to come before Him! To know that Jesus went through the most horrible and painful death imaginable for ME...so I could be forgiven, so I could come to my Father and worship...so I could speak to Him, so He would hear my prayers...is overwhelming. How could one not worship Him in awe!! His love is incomprehensible!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Menu Plan
I'm starting back to my menu planning. It truly does help to have this list on the refrigerator for all those busy nights. And it also helps you to stick to the grocery list and budget.
Mexican casserole
Smoked Sausage with potatoes
Breakfast casserole
Manwichs
Homemade Pizza
Baked chicken
Pinto Beans
Shepherds Pie
Garlic and Herb Tuna Cakes
Potato Soup with grilled cheese sandwiches
Spaghetti
Meatloaf
Shrimp Scampi
Baked ziti
Those are just the main dishes. I have frozen veggies to serve also.
So, now that I am back on board with the menu planning, I also want to get back to freezer meals. I am getting my next shopping list together to include some freezer meals. Cooler weather means soups and stews can be added! :-)
Now I just need to figure out the coupon game and I will feel really frugal!! Lol!
Mexican casserole
Smoked Sausage with potatoes
Breakfast casserole
Manwichs
Homemade Pizza
Baked chicken
Pinto Beans
Shepherds Pie
Garlic and Herb Tuna Cakes
Potato Soup with grilled cheese sandwiches
Spaghetti
Meatloaf
Shrimp Scampi
Baked ziti
Those are just the main dishes. I have frozen veggies to serve also.
So, now that I am back on board with the menu planning, I also want to get back to freezer meals. I am getting my next shopping list together to include some freezer meals. Cooler weather means soups and stews can be added! :-)
Now I just need to figure out the coupon game and I will feel really frugal!! Lol!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Financial Peace
For years I have been listening to Dave Ramsey. But, now I am actually enrolled in his Financial Peace University. Not only are Jeff and I going thru this class, but they have allowed Trent to sit in it as well. This is HUGE! I don't want Trent making the mistakes we made! I feel like this will give him a good foundation to go with the example Jeff and I are trying to set.
We have been serious about getting out of debt for approximately 2 years now...but, taking this class we feel more empowered and more equipped to do so. I'm excited...well, as excited as you can be about pinching pennies and trying to get out of debt.
Now on to the pinching penny part.
1. I have switched banks for my checking account. This bank offers 3% interest for my checking account. Huge difference from old bank of .054%!
2. Made a "Quickie Budget". This is the first budget that Dave wants a family to make. Next will be a more detailed budget...but for now the quickie one is what we are going on until we get more data on our actual expenses.
3. Back on a menu plan. Over the summer I kinda got out of this. I wasn't as organized and I really didn't take the time that I needed to do the best in this area.
4. Reading Dave's book Financial Peace.
Small steps, but steps all the same. This is the easy part for me...the hard part is people and relationships!
People don't understand the word budget or choose not to understand. We have been made fun of, belittled and talked about behind our backs...yep, I can assure you people are more than willing to tell you what your "friends" or acquiantances say about you behind your back. I truly do not understand why this is a source of ridicule. I do not find it shameful to want to be a good steward of what the Lord has blessed us with nor do I find it disgusting or awful to be debt-free. If it's between going out to eat or putting money in our emergency fund...guess what?! Emergency fund ranks higher in importance! It's not that we are being "unsocialable" or I think the best remarks I have heard made were, "We think we are better than them and don't want to hang out." or "They thought we wanted to be friends...we lied."
Can you believe those comments?! I just have to shake my head.
I just got out of a toxic and dangerous relationship a couple of years ago...I have no intention of being pressured or manipulated into doing something or spending money that I do not have. I will not allow anyone to have that control over me any more. Now, I must admit that I have slipped up a couple of times and given in to peer pressure. But, with God's help, wisdom and discernment I will not go back into a people pleasing mentality!!! That's how I got myself into this mess!! Really when you think about it...why would you want to be "friends" or hang out with someone who does not value or respect you. If they did, they would be supportive...not ridicule you. So, all that said to say this....penny pinching is not fun, doing without is not easy, saving money is hard, making a budget and sticking to it is a lot of work, ridicule and belittling from others is not easy to take, BUT being debt free and having that security is soooooo worth it.
We have been serious about getting out of debt for approximately 2 years now...but, taking this class we feel more empowered and more equipped to do so. I'm excited...well, as excited as you can be about pinching pennies and trying to get out of debt.
Now on to the pinching penny part.
1. I have switched banks for my checking account. This bank offers 3% interest for my checking account. Huge difference from old bank of .054%!
2. Made a "Quickie Budget". This is the first budget that Dave wants a family to make. Next will be a more detailed budget...but for now the quickie one is what we are going on until we get more data on our actual expenses.
3. Back on a menu plan. Over the summer I kinda got out of this. I wasn't as organized and I really didn't take the time that I needed to do the best in this area.
4. Reading Dave's book Financial Peace.
Small steps, but steps all the same. This is the easy part for me...the hard part is people and relationships!
People don't understand the word budget or choose not to understand. We have been made fun of, belittled and talked about behind our backs...yep, I can assure you people are more than willing to tell you what your "friends" or acquiantances say about you behind your back. I truly do not understand why this is a source of ridicule. I do not find it shameful to want to be a good steward of what the Lord has blessed us with nor do I find it disgusting or awful to be debt-free. If it's between going out to eat or putting money in our emergency fund...guess what?! Emergency fund ranks higher in importance! It's not that we are being "unsocialable" or I think the best remarks I have heard made were, "We think we are better than them and don't want to hang out." or "They thought we wanted to be friends...we lied."
Can you believe those comments?! I just have to shake my head.
I just got out of a toxic and dangerous relationship a couple of years ago...I have no intention of being pressured or manipulated into doing something or spending money that I do not have. I will not allow anyone to have that control over me any more. Now, I must admit that I have slipped up a couple of times and given in to peer pressure. But, with God's help, wisdom and discernment I will not go back into a people pleasing mentality!!! That's how I got myself into this mess!! Really when you think about it...why would you want to be "friends" or hang out with someone who does not value or respect you. If they did, they would be supportive...not ridicule you. So, all that said to say this....penny pinching is not fun, doing without is not easy, saving money is hard, making a budget and sticking to it is a lot of work, ridicule and belittling from others is not easy to take, BUT being debt free and having that security is soooooo worth it.
Monday, August 30, 2010
What's been going on....
The summer has been slammed with activity!
1. Running and training for the Sourwood 5k.
2. Taking Trent to Cross Country practice.
3. Working and Volunteering at the church.
4. Cleaning house.
5. Montreat Student Move-in.
6. Media fast...only the news and Joyce Meyer was watched on television.
7. Jeff and Trent going to Panama City for "BigStuf" youth camp.
8. Taking our family on the Parkway hiking trips.
9. Community VBS at the local school...preparation and painting of back drops.
10.Spending time studying and soaking in the Word of God!!
Maybe not a terribly exciting summer...but I have no regrets!!
1. Running and training for the Sourwood 5k.
2. Taking Trent to Cross Country practice.
3. Working and Volunteering at the church.
4. Cleaning house.
5. Montreat Student Move-in.
6. Media fast...only the news and Joyce Meyer was watched on television.
7. Jeff and Trent going to Panama City for "BigStuf" youth camp.
8. Taking our family on the Parkway hiking trips.
9. Community VBS at the local school...preparation and painting of back drops.
10.Spending time studying and soaking in the Word of God!!
Maybe not a terribly exciting summer...but I have no regrets!!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Stepping out of the box...
What I am about to type may sound so silly for most...but for me, it has been life changing!
Sunday I had the honor of serving the vets dinner at the ABCCM Vet Quarters. Now, I have served before...but, only in a church setting. I can hear my Pastor preach about getting out of our 4 walls and ministering to others. I'm not sure how I thought I was doing that, but honestly, I thought I was. Then Sunday evening I woke up! My life has been sheltered and naive! I realize that now.
I was nervous about going to the vets quarters. It was an unknown envirnoment with unknown people who suffered unknown things. Now for me to step out of my box is one thing but to take my entire family to the unknown is another. I was honestly a little scared. All those fears instantly went away as soon as I walked in the lobby! The greeting we received was that of such appreciation and love it was overwhelming! We were immediately accepted, the men there were so gracious and filled with joy and appreciation. We went to bless them, but they blessed us! My whole family enjoyed our time there. It was only an hour and a half, but that hour and a half was life changing. How silly I was to be afraid! Now the most ironic part...Pastor Kevin preached on fear that morning! Yep, God was preparing me and speaking to me...He knew that I was nervous. For some reason I don't have a problem stepping out of my box to do new things...but when my kids are involved, I get nervous and I have anxiety over it. But, God has been faithful and so good....and patient. He is stretching me and shaping me. Things I have never thought of and never considered are now possibilities. So, all of this said...to say that I am excited to see where God is taking me. To see God in action in my life and my family's life. And most of all...I'm excited to see how God is going to use me!
Sunday I had the honor of serving the vets dinner at the ABCCM Vet Quarters. Now, I have served before...but, only in a church setting. I can hear my Pastor preach about getting out of our 4 walls and ministering to others. I'm not sure how I thought I was doing that, but honestly, I thought I was. Then Sunday evening I woke up! My life has been sheltered and naive! I realize that now.
I was nervous about going to the vets quarters. It was an unknown envirnoment with unknown people who suffered unknown things. Now for me to step out of my box is one thing but to take my entire family to the unknown is another. I was honestly a little scared. All those fears instantly went away as soon as I walked in the lobby! The greeting we received was that of such appreciation and love it was overwhelming! We were immediately accepted, the men there were so gracious and filled with joy and appreciation. We went to bless them, but they blessed us! My whole family enjoyed our time there. It was only an hour and a half, but that hour and a half was life changing. How silly I was to be afraid! Now the most ironic part...Pastor Kevin preached on fear that morning! Yep, God was preparing me and speaking to me...He knew that I was nervous. For some reason I don't have a problem stepping out of my box to do new things...but when my kids are involved, I get nervous and I have anxiety over it. But, God has been faithful and so good....and patient. He is stretching me and shaping me. Things I have never thought of and never considered are now possibilities. So, all of this said...to say that I am excited to see where God is taking me. To see God in action in my life and my family's life. And most of all...I'm excited to see how God is going to use me!
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